It had been a long school year, but now that finals were over, there was only one thing on her mind – preparing for her senior prom. In just a few hours, she would be celebrating one of the most important times of the year. She was anxious and nervous at the same time.

Eighteen-year-old Trixie Belden stared at her reflection in her full-length mirror. Her hands ran over the material of her dress and she thought about everything she had done earlier in the day.

Following breakfast, Trixie’s best friends Honey Wheeler and Diana Lynch dragged her into White Plains for a facial, manicure and pedicure to prepare them for the evening. Afterward, they went to a salon where the stylist created magic that would work with the dresses selected for the occasion.

Back home, Trixie now began to wonder if the dress she had was right for the prom.

“You look beautiful,” a voice said from behind her.

Trixie turned and saw Helen “Moms” Belden standing in the door way with a smile on her face.

“Are you sure?” Trixie asked, turning back to the mirror.

“I am quite sure,” Helen said, moving into the room to stand behind her. “The dress is the perfect color and perfect fit. You should have no problems with tripping over the bottom since it lands just below your knees and is not at your ankles.”

“But is it appropriate for the prom?” Trixie asked, glancing at her open closet door where a couple of her ball gowns were hanging. “Maybe I should wear something else.”

“If you change, you won’t match your escort,” Helen said.

Trixie spun to look at her. “Jim’s here?”

“He arrived a few minutes ago when Tom picked up Brian and Mart.”

“I should probably go down,” Trixie said, looking for her purse.

“He’s fine with Peter,” Helen said. “Take a breath and make sure you have everything for tonight.”

Trixie took a breath and said, “My bag is already up at the Manor House. Honey took it home with her after our outing this morning. My purse for tonight has my identification, money, phone, lipstick and a pair of flats to switch into later when my feet start to hurt.”

“What about your camera?”

“Oh yeah,” Trixie said, moving over to her dresser and grabbing her digital camera. “I think I have everything now.”

“Trixie! The others are here!” Peter Belden called up to them.

“We’ll be down in a minute!” Helen replied.

Trixie picked up her purse and slid the camera inside. “I better go down,” she said quickly.

“Let me go first,” Helen said.

“All right.”

Trixie watched her mother leave the room. She heard the footsteps fade as they went down the stairs. She heard multiple greetings and knew her mother was in the living room. She took a deep breath and headed down the stairs. She made sure each step was centered on the board so she wouldn’t fall, as her hand slid along the wooden railing.

When she reached the first floor, she turned to the living room to greet Jim, but the words failed to leave her lips.

“Hello, Trixie,” said Queen Penelope, her mother.

“What are you doing here?” Trixie asked, her gaze shifting to her father, King William.

“We thought we should be here to see you graduate on Sunday,” William said.

A smile filled Trixie’s face. “I’m so glad you’re here.” A frown quickly replaced her smile. “But I have to leave for the prom.”

“Go ahead and go,” Penelope said, moving over to her and brushing the curls off her shoulders. “We don’t want you to change your plans. We can visit tomorrow.”

“Are you sure?” Trixie asked.

“You look beautiful and should go enjoy your prom,” William said.

“Enjoy your evening,” Penelope said. “And that dress fits you magnificently.”

“Thank you,” Trixie said. She turned and saw Jim standing off to the side by Peter and Helen. “I’m sorry it’s taken so long to greet you.” She smiled at him.

“It’s all right,” Jim said, as he stepped forward. “I know it’s been a few months since you’ve seen them.”

Trixie took in Jim’s appearance. He looked stunning in his tuxedo with his blue cummerbund and matching bow tie.

“You look very handsome,” Trixie said. “Thank you for being my escort this evening.”

“It is an honor,” Jim said and lifted up a plastic container. “I got this wrist corsage for you.”

Trixie looked at the flowers and saw they were white roses with the tips painted blue to match her dress. “That’s so beautiful.”

“Allow me.” Jim opened the container and pulled out the corsage. He slid it over her hand and made sure it was snug around her wrist.

Trixie leaned up and gave Jim a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you.”

Jim smiled. “Any time.”

Trixie looked at Helen. “Where is the boutonniere?”

“I’ll get it,” Helen said and slipped from the room.

As she came back in, she was followed by Honey, Brian, Di and Mart.

“That’s a beautiful dress,” Honey said taking in Trixie’s cobalt blue dress which covered her shoulders and had a bodice stitched with hundreds of small jewels. The skirt flared out in layers of tulle as it came to just below her knees. Light blue jewels created a belt at her waist and a blue heart shaped pendant hung around her neck.

“It is,” Di agreed.

Honey was wearing a pale yellow A-line dress that went down to her ankles. Di had on a strapless lavender gown with sequins across the bodice. Each girl wore necklaces that matched their gowns. Both of them had waves added to their hair as they allowed it to flow down their backs.

“I think we need a group picture,” Helen said.

“Absolutely,” Madeleine Wheeler said as she entered the room flowed by her husband and the Lynches.

“Go over by the fireplace, kids,” Peter said.

The three couples positioned themselves in front of the fireplace with the guys standing in the back with their hands on the girls waists’ as they stood in front of them. Once group and then several individual pictures were taken, the three couples went out to the limousine. Within minutes they were on their way to the White Plains Country Club.

Upon arrival, the group made their way inside to see many of the girls’ classmates milling about and getting their pictures taken. They got in line so they could have their official photos taken in the flowered arch. They also knew that as the evening wore on and the dancing began, their hair would lose its pristine condition.

Once they were all done, they entered the hall and found their table. Several of their friends commented on their beautiful dresses and pulled the three of them away from the guys to chat. Some of the other students made a beeline for the male Bob-Whites, since they had not seen them in a couple of years.

“You are so lucky to have three college men as your escorts,” said one girl. “You’re the envy of all the girls here.”

As the girls continued to receive comments, Trixie slipped back from the group and moved to Jim’s side. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and pulled her close. He leaned down and kissed the top of her head. She felt so comfortable in his embrace.

Shortly afterward, dinner was served. It was followed by a video presentation with photos of the members of the senior class through the school years. There were shots of Honey, Di and Trixie together in high school and even a few shots of Di and Trixie in elementary school.

When it was over, the deejay turned up the music and the dancing began.

Trixie snuggled against Jim as the fast paced beat blasted from the speakers. He held her close and that suited her. After a while, the temperature in the room seemed to increase. Trixie began to feel very uncomfortable and a bit light-headed. She motioned to Jim and they left the room to get some air outside.

Jim closed the door behind them as Trixie took a deep, refreshing breath. They moved over to the concrete railing and stared out into the darkened golf course. Trixie felt Jim step up behind her and wrap his arms around her waist. Trixie leaned back against him as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

“Thank you again for being my escort tonight,” Trixie said.

“It was my honor,” Jim said. “I love the chance to hold you close and dance.”

Trixie turned in his embrace, looking into his eyes. “It means a lot to me.”

Jim reached up and cupped her face in his hand. “It means a lot to me as well because I get to spend time with you.”

Trixie smiled.

Jim leaned in close and Trixie’s eyes fluttered shut. A moment later their lips met.

When the kiss ended and they broke apart, Trixie rested her head on Jim’s chest as he pulled her close once again. Everything was perfect.

Trixie felt a sudden chill run down her spine and she shuddered. She turned in his arms, staring out into the darkness. She felt like there was someone watching her.

“Are you cold?” Jim asked, moving his arms from around her waist and caressing her arms.

She had the feeling again and was certain someone was out there. “I think I’m ready to go in,” she murmured.

“All right,” Jim said.

They turned and returned to the dance floor just as a ballad began. When the song came to an end, the class president stepped up to the microphone.

“It is now time to announce this year’s prom king and queen. As everyone knows, votes were cast the last day of classes and have been tabulated by Principal Stratton. We will start with the king.” She tore the envelope open and pulled out a card. “Prom King is Nick Roberts.”

Applause erupted and a light shined on Nick as he made his way to the front of the room. A crown was placed on his head as he grinned at the crowd.

“And now for Prom Queen.”

Jim wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered into her ear. “I already have my queen.”

Trixie grinned.

“And the Prom Queen is…Honey Wheeler.”

The Bob-Whites had the loudest applause and whistles as a blushing Honey made her way up beside Nick. A tiara was placed on her head.

“And now, the royal dance.”

Everyone stepped back to allow Nick and Honey to start the song. They had only danced for a minute before they broke apart and returned to the arms of their escorts. The floor filled with the rest of the attendees.

It was almost one in the morning when Tom pulled the limousine up to the Manor House. The six of them climbed out and headed inside to start their own post prom party. The Bob-White post prom party started with Brian and Jim. The Wheeler’s had agreed to have the party at their house to guarantee none of them would be out on the road on prom night. All the adults were aware that the number of accidents increased on prom night and everyone wanted to make sure none of the Bob-Whites were casualties.

After changing into comfortable clothes, they all gathered in the game room where Dan was waiting for them. Snacks and drinks were lined up for them. Sleeping bags and pillows were on the floor in front of the television for when they finally wanted to sleep.

When the sun broke the horizon the next morning, Trixie was the only one awake. She had gone to the bathroom and when she returned, the others were all sleeping soundly. She made her way to the French doors and slipped out onto the porch with a glass of strawberry pop in her hand. She sat down on the porch swing, watching as a new day dawned. It was nice to sit in the early moments of the day. There was a peacefulness and beauty that contradicted the hours later in the day when there was so much going on.

There would be a whirlwind of activities over the next several days. When the others woke, they would begin preparing the grounds for the graduation party on Sunday. The next day the girls would head to the graduation rehearsal. On Saturday they would set up the tents, tables and chairs for the party. Then on Monday, Trixie and Jim would be on a plane.

Trixie was sad that she wasn’t going to get to spend much time with her friends. They all had been so focused on their studies, preparing for finals; they had been looking forward to a few days of just having fun. But with their summers jobs and commitments, they would have to take what they could get.

She heard the crunching of tree branches in the woods next to the house and turned to see what was there. She knew the deer came out this early and wondered if that was what she heard. Staring into the woods, she got the feeling that someone was watching her. She felt a chill run down her back similar to what she felt the night before.

“Trixie?”

She spun her head around to see a sleepy Jim standing in the doorway.

“You startled me,” she said.

“Sorry,” Jim said and tried to stifle a yawn.

“Is everything okay?” Trixie asked.

“Yeah. I just wondered where you were. We were talking and when I opened my eyes, you were gone.”

“You fell asleep,” Trixie said. “When I came back, you were out.”

“I’m sorry,” Jim said, moving over and sitting on the swing beside her.

“It’s all right,” Trixie said. “You were tired. It happens.”

“Did you get any sleep?” Jim asked.

Trixie shook her head. “I’m not tired.”

“Really?”

“I think because of all the excitement that’s to come in the next few days, I’m just not tired.”

“It’s definitely going to be a busy few days,” Jim said.

“And I can’t wait for Sunday because then I will officially be a high school graduate,” she admitted.

“It is a great feeling when you’re handed the diploma,” Jim said and tried to stifle another yawn.

Trixie smiled. “Jim, go get some sleep. You’re tired and if you keep trying to fight it, you will probably collapse at the wrong time.”

“All right,” Jim said. “I’ll go sleep for a couple hours as long as you promise to join me for lunch later.”

“It’s a date.”

As Trixie had predicted, the days after the prom were busy with limited time to relax. Trixie had her picnic lunch with Jim and then had gone out to dinner with William and Penelope.

Everything was moving quickly toward graduation day and everyone felt the excitement.

The ceremony began with the graduates entering the auditorium and taking their seats on the stage. Trixie was seated in the front row and could see her family and friends seated along the right side wall. Following the speeches by the principal, the mayor and the valedictorian, each senior was called one by one to receive their diplomas. Loud cheers and applause erupted for each Bob-White. Once all the students had their booklets in hand, they exited the auditorium and waited outside for their loved ones to find them.

Congratulations and hugs were shared all around as the Bob-White girls were surrounded by everyone they held dear.

Trixie made her way back into the school to retrieve her bag. She realized she had forgotten it as everyone talked about heading for the party. She found it right where she had left it and made her way back to the parking lot. Clearing the building she saw Jim leaning against the hood of his car. A glance around the parking lot revealed her family’s cars’ were gone.

“Are you my chauffer this afternoon?” Trixie asked with a teasing smile.

“I told everyone to go ahead and start the party and that I’d wait for you,” Jim said.

“I’m sorry you had to wait because I forgot my bag.”

“I don’t mind,” Jim said. “Are you ready now?”

“Yeah,” Trixie said.

Jim opened the passenger door and Trixie settled into the brown seat cushion. Jim got behind the wheel a moment later and they were on their way. They went through town and Jim pulled to a stop near Hoppy.

“Why are we stopping here?” Trixie asked.

“I actually have a graduation present for you that I wanted to give you without a crowd around.”

“You didn’t have to get me anything, Jim.”

“I wanted to.” He reached into the inner pocket of his suit jacket. He pulled out a white velvet box and handed it to Trixie.

She held the box in her left hand lifting the lid with her right. Nestled in the white satin center was a diamond ring with a smaller diamond on each side.

“This is beautiful,” Trixie said.

“Trixie, I love you. I am honored that your country’s tradition dictated that we would be husband and wife, but part of me is a little old fashioned. I was wondering if you would do the honor of wearing this ring and agreeing to be my wife.”

“Yes, Jim. Yes. I would love to wear this ring and be your wife.”

Jim took the ring out of the box and slid it onto her ring finger.

“I love you,” Jim said and gave her a kiss.

“I love you, too.”

Jim leaned back and looked at her. “We should probably get going.”

“Yeah.”

Jim pulled out into traffic and headed for Glen Road. As they started up the hill, Trixie asked, “Could you drop me at the farm, Jim? I want to switch shoes.”

“Not a problem,” Jim said. He pulled into the driveway and right up to the garage.

“Go ahead to the Manor House,” Trixie said. “I’ll be up in a minute.”

“I can wait,” Jim said.

“That’s not necessary,” Trixie said. “I’ll be right behind you.”

“Are you sure?”

Trixie smiled. “I’m sure.” She leaned over and gave Jim a kiss. “I’ll see you in a few.”

“Okay.”

Trixie climbed out and headed inside as she heard Jim’s car back out of the driveway. She set her bag on the kitchen table as she made her way to the stairs. She went up to her room and slipped on a pair of white flats instead of her heels.

Once they were on her feet, she turned and faced the mirror. She looked at her reflection and her gaze was immediately drawn to the ring on her finger. She lifted her hand, touched by the beauty and sentiment of the ring.

“He loves me so much,” Trixie said softly, watching the jewels glisten in the sunlight.

“If he does, he’ll pay handsomely for your safe return,” said a voice from the doorway.

She spun around and gasped, “Jonesy!”

“Hello, Miss Nosy,” Jonesy said with a forced smile showing his dirty and decaying teeth. His clothes were even more worn than the last time she had seen him.

“What are you doing here?” Trixie questioned.

“Well, rumor has it that you and my stepson are getting really close and that means I am due to get what I want.”

“You won’t get anything,” she hissed.

“Really?” Jonesy asked. “Because from where I’m standing, I’m holding all the cards.”

Trixie knew she had to do something. Her purse was in the kitchen and it held her phone. There was no way to let anyone know there was trouble. And Jonesy was standing in the doorway. She couldn’t get out.

“Now, you are going to come quietly with me and as long as you do exactly as you’re told, no harm will come to you.”

Trixie didn’t trust him. Not one bit.

“Now, let’s go.”

She knew she wasn’t going to go without a fight. Giving him the impression she was going willingly, she took a few steps toward him. Grateful to have flats on, Trixie broke into a run and charged at Jonesy. She shoved him back and turned toward the stairs. She hit the top step and suddenly felt a hand grab her ankle. She tried to grab something, but she fell and rolled down the stairs.

Her head crashed into the floor and the pain radiated down her body. She could hear Jonesy’s laughter coming closer, but she couldn’t move.

“You will come with me willingly now,” Jonesy said.

Trixie watched Jonesy grab her left hand and yank the ring off her finger, bending her finger in a way it wasn’t supposed to move, causing the bones to break. He tossed the ring on the table before grabbing her legs and dragging her through the kitchen. Her mind shut down and there was darkness.

Jim held the bottle of water in his hand as he stood at the corner of the house watching for Trixie. He knew she should be coming up the path. The longer she took, the more anxious he became.

He looked at the guests and knew they had not realized one of the graduates was missing. Across the way under the tents, he caught Mart’s gaze.

Mart excused himself from the Belden relatives and made his way to Jim. He asked, “Where’s Trixie?”

“She needed to change her shoes before coming up,” Jim said, glancing at the path.

“How long ago was that?” Mart asked.

“About twenty minutes,” Jim said, his focus turning to Mart. He saw his friend’s face was pale. “Mart?”

“We need to go down there,” Mart said, heading for the path at a quick pace.

Jim fell in step beside Mart without question. He had a feeling Trixie’s almost-twin knew something was wrong. Reaching the farmhouse, they stepped into the kitchen and saw Trixie’s bag on the table.

“Trixie?” Mart called out.

Mart was first around the table and stopped quickly. Jim bumped into him.

“What is it?” Jim asked.

“Blood.”

Jim pushed past Mart, running up the stairs. “Trixie! Answer me!”

Jim reached her bedroom and saw she was not there. A quick glance into the other rooms has the same result.

“Jim!”

He hurried down the stairs and saw Mart was pointing to a trail of blood.

“And there’s this,” Mart said, putting his finger close to the ring on the table.

“That’s Trixie’s,” Jim said. “I just gave it to her.”

“I’m calling my Dad,” Mart said. “Don’t touch anything.”

Jim stood still, his stomach turning in knots as Mart dialed his father.

I should have waited for her, he thought. If I had insisted, we wouldn’t be standing here now with blood on the floor and her engagement ring on the table. This is a nightmare and I have no idea where she is or who has her.

“They’re on their way,” Mart said.

“I wonder where she is,” Jim said.

“The police will want to talk to us,” Mart said. “That blood could be Trixie’s and that makes me think she didn’t go willingly.”

“But who would want to take her?” Jim asked, clearly in shock.

“We’ll figure it out.”

Footsteps approaching the house made Jim and Mart look at the door. Peter entered with William close behind. Peter asked, “What have you found?”

“There’s blood on the floor,” Mart said.

“And the ring I gave Trixie a little while ago is on the table,” Jim said.

“There’s no sign of her?” William asked.

“She’s not here,” Mart said.

“Have you touched anything?” Peter asked.

“No,” Mart said.

“All right,” Peter said. “Let’s go outside and wait for the police. They will be here soon and will need to talk to both of you.”

Jim followed the others outside and stared out at the woods. He felt fully responsible that his had happened. He knew he should’ve waited but because he didn’t, they were all worried about Trixie.

“Jim, we will find her,” William said as he put his hand on his shoulder.

“She told me to go on up to the party and that she would be right behind me,” Jim said guiltily as he looked at William. “I should have waited, but I didn’t, and look what happened.”

William put his hands on Jim’s shoulders and stared him in the eye. “Jim, this is not your fault. You had no idea this was going to happen. You cannot feel guilty. You did nothing to make this happen. You need to think of ways to find her and bring her home. We will only succeed as long as we stay positive. That will bring Trixie home safely to us.”

Jim took a breath trying to push back the fear that was threatening to overwhelm him. He took a second one. “We will find her,” he said, with a calmness he wasn’t sure he felt.

William nodded. “We will.”

At that moment a police car pulled up to the house. The driver’s door opened and Sergeant Wendell Molinson climbed out.

“Has she already solved this for me?” he asked as he approached with a smile. “If she has, she can just complete the report to save me time.”

William stared at the officer. “Are you the only one coming?”

“When the call came from here, I figured it would be fine as Trixie usually solves the case even before I arrive on the scene.”

“Trixie is the one that’s missing,” Peter said.

“You’re joking?” Sergeant Molinson said, his face turning serious.

“Something happened,” Peter said. “There is blood on the kitchen floor and the ring Jim gave her is on the table.”

“Let me check this out,” Sergeant Molinson said and went inside.

“Do you think we should tell Moms?” Mart asked.

“We’ll see what Molinson says and go from there,” Peter answered.

“If they hear the sirens, or even someone calling out her name, they’re going to freak out,” Jim said.

“I can’t believe the police force sends just one person for a call regarding a missing person,” William said. “This place should be swarming with officers.”

“It will be,” Peter said.

“I want all available officers out here on Glen Road,” Molinson said coming out the door. “Get forensics out here and alert the surrounding communities. I know the rules, but this needs to be done now.” Molinson closed his phone. “I need to ask all of you to leave. This is a crime scene.” He looked at the men. “I will come up to the Manor House to get your statements.”

“Come on,” Peter said. “Helen and Penelope need to know what’s happened.”

William put his arm across Jim’s shoulder and they headed up the path.

“Jim, could we use your father’s study?” Peter asked.

“That should be private enough,” Jim said. “I’ll get Mother and Dad.”

“I’ll get Penelope and Moms and meet you there,” Mart said.

Within a short while, the adults were gathered in the study. Matthew had given strict instructions that they were not to be disturbed unless it was Molinson.

They quickly brought the others up to date on what they believed happened at the farm. Penelope and Helen cried for Trixie. The men tried to come up with some idea why this had happened to her.

Jim stood at the fireplace, staring at the mantle. There was a single picture that had his attention. It was a group shot of all the Bob-Whites, wearing their red jackets in front of the gatehouse. He was standing in the back and Trixie was right in front of him, her beautiful smile being captured in that instant.

He was terrified he would never see the smile again.

“Jim, we will find her,” William said getting his attention.

“I should’ve waited,” Jim said.

“What do we do now?” Penelope asked.

“We have to see what the police plan to do,” Peter said. “Molinson should be up soon to question the boys about what they saw.”

“Who would take Trixie from us?” Helen asked.

“Trixie has caught a lot of people. Any of them might hold a grudge wanting revenge,” Mart said.

“That is an awfully long list,” Jim said.

“Excuse me, Mr. Wheeler,” Celia said, opening the door. “Sergeant Molinson is here.”

“Send him in,” Matthew said.

“Yes, sir,” Celia said.

She motioned to the officer and he entered the study. She closed the door behind him.

“I have forensics going over the house now. They should be done in a bit,” he said. “I need statements from you about what happened.”

“That’s fine,” Peter said.

The officer wrote down what Mart, Jim and Peter saw and did upon entering the house earlier up until his arrival. When he had their stories, he then turned to William.

“So, tell me what you saw and did,” Molinson said.

“I was here at the graduation party when Mart called his father,” William said. “Peter told me there was a problem and I accompanied him to the house. When we got there, we stepped inside and saw the blood and the ring. Mart and Jim told us what they’d found. Peter made sure they hadn’t touched anything and then we decided we should go outside and wait for your arrival.”

“How do you know Trixie?” Sergeant Molinson asked.

Jim saw William and Penelope look at one another, and then at Peter and Helen.

“Wendell, if we tell you something, you need to promise it doesn’t go any further than this room,” Peter said.

“Off the record?”

“Off the record and a secret you can never share with anyone. It will ruin Trixie’s life,” Helen said.

Sergeant Molinson looked at all of them and closed his notebook. He shoved it into his inside coat pocket and said, “I promise.”

“Trixie is my daughter,” William said. “My name is King William and my wife, Queen Penelope, and I are Trixie’s biological parents.”

The shock on Sergeant Molinson’s face made Jim grin. “Trixie is your daughter?”

“She is,” Penelope said. “Peter and Helen agreed to raise her until she was 16 because there were factions trying to take over our kingdom. We knew we had to keep her safe and this also allowed her to grow up as a normal girl instead of a princess.”

“Wow,” Sergeant Molinson said.

“We have kept her secret so that she can continue her education here in the states,” Peter said. She wants to be a normal girl.”

“When she graduates from college, she will take her place as the ruler of our country,” Penelope said.

“That is why her true parentage needs to be protected,” Peter said.

“I will not say a word about that,” Sergeant Molinson said. “I promise.”

“So, were there any clues as to who took her?” William asked.

“The team is finishing up and there are no real clues so far that gives us a lead to who took her and why,” Sergeant Molinson said.

“So, what do we do now?” Peter asked. “There’s a chance she’s hurt. Whoever took her might not get her medical attention. She’s in harm’s way.”

“Whoever took her probably knows her and we’ll hear from them at some point,” Sergeant Molinson said.

“Wha-oh, wha-oh, stuck like glue.”

“What is that?” Penelope asked.

Jim scrambled to pull his phone out of his pocket. “That is “Stuck Like Glue” by Sugarland. She put that ringtone on my phone so I would know she was calling me.”

“Remain calm, Jim,” Sergeant Molinson said.

Jim opened his phone and put it to his ear. “Hello?”

“It is so good to hear from you, my boy.” The voice made Jim’s face go white as he sank to the floor in front of the fireplace. Jonesy. “I can’t believe it’s been so many years.”

“Why do you have Trixie’s phone?” Jim asked with a calmness he didn’t feel.

“This is Trixie’s phone?” Jonesy laughed. “I didn’t realize it.”

“Let me talk to her,” Jim said.

“Unfortunately, Miss Detective is indisposed,” Jonesy said.

Jim heard what sounded like a kick and then a groan.

“What did you do?” Jim demanded.

“You better control your temper, boy, or the girl could get hurt.”

Jim closed his eyes trying to calm down. He asked, “What do you want?”

“Ah, I see you want to talk business,” Jonesy said. “That’s fine with me. I want what is mine. I was your guardian when your great-uncle died. That money was to reimburse me for you living with me and that’s what I want.”

“You can have it,” Jim said. “It’s all yours.”

“You’re serious,” Jonesy said.

“You can have it. I’ll get it to you tomorrow.”

“You’re being awfully accommodating,” Jonesy said slowly. “Does she mean that much to you?”

“I know what you’re capable of and I don’t want to see her hurt.”

“You have a good heart which will be your downfall,” Jonesy said. “I’ll call tomorrow with the details to drop off my money.”

“Wait,” Jim said. “I need to talk to her.”

“Fine,” Jonesy said after a moment.

Jim listened carefully and heard Jonesy moving. He heard a tearing sound followed by a whimper of pain. He dropped his head, hating to hear her hurting.

“Talk,” he heard Jonesy say.

“H’lo?”

“Hey, you,” Jim said softly.

There was a pause and then a tearful, “Jim?”

“It’s good to hear your voice,” Jim said, closing his eyes.

“Jim,” Trixie cried.

“We’ll be together soon,” Jim said. “Remember that.”

He heard Trixie screaming in pain and the call was ended.

He instinctively closed the phone before it slide from his hand, hitting the floor with a thud. He pulled his hands to his face. He was terrified, knowing what Jonesy could do to his soulmate.

Jim felt a hand on his shoulder and looked up to see his father’s concerned gaze focused on him. Matthew asked, “What does he want?”

“My inheritance,” Jim answered.

“Did you hear any clues as to where they might be?” Sergeant Molinson asked.

Jim shook his head. “It was quiet wherever they were.”

“Is Trixie okay?” Penelope asked.

Jim looked at the Queen. He could see the fear on her face that she may lose her daughter, a daughter that she was just getting to know. He couldn’t tell her the truth. “She talked to me,” he equivocated.

“If she’s talking, then she’s not seriously hurt,” Helen said.

“Jim, keep your phone with you in case he calls again,” Sergeant Molinson said. “I’ll see if we can locate the phone, but until he uses it again, we will just have to wait.”

“Okay,” Jim said, picking up the phone.

“Do we go on with the party?” Mart asked.

“We should go out there,” Matthew said.

“And if they ask about Trixie?” Peter asked.

“Just say she isn’t feeling well,” Jim answered. “That should hold off additional questions for now.”

“I’ll keep you all posted if I hear anything,” Sergeant Molinson said and left the study.

“Let’s go out before they come looking for us,” Madeline said. “We’ll let the kids know what’s happening after the party.”

“Jim and I will be there in a few minutes once we get the money issue addressed,” Matthew said.

When the others were gone, Matthew closed the door and turned to Jim. “I know you didn’t want to worry them, but you didn’t tell them everything, did you?”

Jim stared at his father. “She’s hurt. I think he kicked her. And just before the call ended, I heard her scream.”

Matthew moved over and sat beside Jim. He wrapped his arm around Jim’s shoulder.

“Dad, he is so dangerous and because Trixie helped me get away from him, I’m scared he will take his anger out on her. He won’t hold back.”

“We will get her back,” Matthew said. “She is important to all of us and I will do everything in my power to resolve this.”

Jim looked at Matthew, fear in his green eyes. “I can’t lose her, Dad.”

“We’ll do everything we can so that doesn’t happen,” Matthew said.

Jim hoped they could.

Trixie gritted her teeth and tried not to cry. Jonesy had stomped on her left hand, sending a searing pain down her entire arm. Every part of her body hurt.

“It’s amazing that I’ve found Jim’s weakness,” Jonesy said as he paced around her.

She was sprawled on the dirt floor, her ankles tied together with a rope which was tied to a metal pole three feet away. Her right arm was strapped to her body and her left arm stretched out above her head, tied to a hook in the wall. She couldn’t move.

Trixie had regained consciousness to a swift kick in the ribs. The phone had been put to her ear and she felt a fleeting moment of joy that Jim was talking to her. The call had been brief and then Jonesy had put all his weight on her left hand, causing her to scream.

From what she could see, her hand was broken since it was really swollen.

Jonesy nudged her side with is foot. “What is it that my step son sees in you? I mean, you aren’t very attractive. You are a poor farm girl that can’t possibly do anything for anyone except cause trouble.” He resumed circling her. “But you’ll finally get what’s coming to you. As soon as I get my money, I’m gone and you’ll be here forever.”

Trixie felt sick to her stomach. Her head was throbbing and she knew deep down she would never see her family and friends again. She allowed the darkness that was hovering at the edge to swallow her, hoping she would feel no more pain.

Jim held his phone tightly in his hands as he stared out at the grounds of the Manor House as a new day dawned. He’d been unable to sleep as images of what Jonesy could do to Trixie swirled through his head. He had been tortured after his mother died and knew there was no end to it. He hated the possibility that Trixie would feel even a smidgen of the pain Jonesy had inflicted on him.

He saw that all signs of the graduation party the previous day were gone. After the guests had left, the rest of the Bob-Whites had been informed of the situation. They were shocked and vowed they would do anything that was needed.

Jim was just anxious to get to the bank and withdraw the money so that when Jonesy called, they could get Trixie back. He was afraid that one Jonesy had the money, he wouldn’t give Trixie back.

Knock, knock.

“Come in,” Jim said.

He listened as the door opened and soft footsteps moved to his side. He felt an arm get wrapped around his waist. He gave his sister a squeeze.

“I’m sorry this ruined your day,” Jim said.

“I don’t care about the party,” Honey said. “I just want Trixie to be all right.”

“So do I.”

“Did you get any sleep?” Honey asked.

“I’m okay.”

“That’s not what I asked.”

“Do you really need me to answer that?” Jim asked.

“So what’s the plan?”

“As soon as the bank opens, I’ll get the money and then wait for Jonesy to call. He doesn’t have a lot of patience and I’m certain he’ll call right when I’m done.”

“What can I do to help?” Honey asked.

“Maybe be here to support William and Penelope?” Jim suggested. “They’re terrified that Trixie is missing.”

“I will do that,” Honey said. “And I will support you too. Trixie will get through this and come back to us. She is a fighter and she will do everything she can to return to the people she loves.”

Jim turned and looked at his sister. “I asked Trixie to marry me.”

“You did?” Honey asked.

Jim nodded. “Trixie forgot something so I wanted to give her a ride back. We stopped by Hoppy. I know we’ve been engaged for almost two years, but I still felt I needed to ask her. William and Peter were okay when I asked them and William even offered to help me with the ring.”

“She must have loved it,” Honey said.

“She agreed in an instant,” Jim said, a lump forming in his throat. “She was so happy.”

“She will make sure that dream will come true for both of you,” Honey said. “Have faith, because the love you two have is something special.”

Jim gave Honey a hug. “Thank you.”

“Anytime,” she said. “Now, why don’t you come down and get something to eat. You’re going to need your strength when Trixie gets back.”

Jim knew there was no arguing with his sister. “Okay.”

When Jim finished eating, it was time to head to the bank and get the money. He was anxious to have it in his hand to turn it over to Jonesy. Because of the amount, Matthew and Peter went with him just to make sure the bank staff didn’t think Jim was being forced to withdraw such a large sum.

The money was bagged up and they went out to the car to return to the Manor House. As each minute passed, Jim’s worry increased.

The car pulled to a stop by the garage and they climbed out.

“Wha-oh, wha-oh, stuck like glue.”

Jim yanked his phone out and said, “Hello?”

“A little anxious, are we?” Jonesy asked.

“I just want Trixie back,” Jim said.

“Then it’s time to bring me the money,” Jonesy said.

“Okay,” Jim said.

“I suspect Matt Wheeler is right there. So, I want you to get in your car and leave Manor House. Alone. Do not shut your phone off. I will give you directions as you go.”

“All right,” Jim said and dashed for his car without a word to the two adults.

He quickly got in, started the engine and pulled out of the Manor House driveway. He switched his phone to speaker. He said, “I’m on Glen Road.”

“Good. Now drive to the far side of Sleepyside as if you are heading for White Plains.”

“I’m on my way,” Jim said, hoping and praying he could get this over with quickly.

“The sooner this is over, the sooner we get on with our lives.”

“Where is Trixie?”

“She’s safe,” Jonesy said.

Jim didn’t trust him. When Jim hit the road leaving Sleepyside, he asked, “Where to next?”

“Drive about a mile and there will be a dirt road on the right side. Take it until you come to a fork in the road. Take the left fork all the way to the end. Get out and walk to the clearing.”

Jim found the road and then the fork. He reached the end and parked the car. He grabbed the bag and started for the clearing. He glanced into the woods around him, looking for some sign of Trixie.

Reaching his destination, Jim saw that he was alone.

“If this is a wild goose chase, it’s not funny,” Jim said into the phone.

“Quit being dramatic,” Jonesy said.

Jim realized the voice wasn’t coming over the phone and spun around.

Jonesy stood a few feet behind him. He looked as scraggly as Jim remembered and a bit more dirty.

“Where’s Trixie?” Jim asked.

“She’s safe,” Jonesy said for a second time that morning. “Is that my money?”

“Here,” Jim said, throwing the bag to his step-father. “It’s exactly what you wanted. Now, where is Trixie?”

“Relax, boy. I need to make sure you aren’t double-crossing me.” Jonesy opened the bag and sifted through the money.

“It’s all there,” Jim said. “Including any interest collected on it.”

Jonesy looked up at Jim. “Trying to butter me up?”

“I only want Trixie.”

“Well, I think it’s about time I told you some news,” Jonesy said, straightening up.

“And what’s that?”

“Trixie isn’t here.”

“Where is she?” Jim demanded, his patience waning.

“She is probably food for the animals that smelled the blood that she’s been losing,” Jonesy said with a grin.

Jim threw his phone to the ground and charged at Jonesy.

Jonesy spun around and headed into the woods carrying the money. Jim was surprised at the older man’s speed, but knew he could last longer.

They ran deeper amongst the trees. Jim could hear Jonesy gasping.

They swerved through the trees and Jim spotted a dilapidated building nestled amongst a lot of brush. The door was missing. Jim glanced in and slid to a stop when he saw someone in white on the ground. He couldn’t see the face but was certain it was Trixie.

Jim ran inside and sank to his knees, his back to the door. He looked closely and saw her curls were covering her face. With a shaking hand, he lifted the curls and clamped his mouth shut to keep from being sick.

Her entire face was covered in blood. There was congealed blood in her hair. The few spots on her face not covered in blood were white.

“I’m here, Trixie,” Jim finally got out as she took in the ropes that held her. “I will have you free in a couple minutes. Just hang on.”

Jim reached into his pocket and pulled out his knife. He opened it and started sawing through the rope around her body first. He released her arm and set it gently on the ground. He then worked on her feet. When that was done, he turned to her left hand and gasped.

“What happened?” Jim asked as he saw how swollen it was. He quickly cut the rope and as her hand was released, she whimpered.

“Come on, Trix, open your eyes,” Jim begged as he returned to her side. “I need you to open your eyes.”

Jim felt a searing pain at the base of his skull and slumped forward on top of Trixie.

As darkness swallowed him, he heard a voice say, “She will never open her eyes. And neither will you.”

Jim groaned at how sore his head was. He put his hands down to roll himself onto his side, but stopped. Whatever was under him was not his mattress. He slowly forced his eyes open and groaned at the brightness.

As his gaze shifted down, his vision cleared and he realized he had fallen on Trixie. He shifted slightly and stretched out beside her.

“Trix? Can you hear me?” Jim asked as he slid his fingers to Trixie’s neck to make sure she had a pulse. “Please, Trix. Talk to me.”

There was a pulse, but Trixie didn’t move.

“All right,” Jim said to himself. “I need to get us out of here. I know I may be crazy just talking without you responding, but I’m certain if you wanted me to be quiet, you’d tell me. We need to get back to my car so I can get you to the hospital.”

Jim looked at his watch. “It’s after two and everyone is probably wondering where I am. There is really nothing here that I can use to carry you. I guess I’ll just have to hold you in my arms. I know it’ll hurt, but we can’t wait here for someone to find us. I can’t even call because I don’t have my phone.

“I guess I should roll you onto your back so I can pick you up. I am sorry if this hurts you, Trixie, but I have to do it so I can pick you up.”

Jim moved to the other side of Trixie and carefully rolled her toward him like he had been taught in his First Aid/CPR class. There were whimpers from Trixie again and Jim felt guilty for causing her pain. He slipped his arms under her and pulled her to his chest before standing up.

He felt his head spin and closed his eyes.

“Don’t pass out,” Jim said. “Don’t pass out. Trixie needs you.”

When the sensation passed, Jim opened his eyes and left the building. He kept Trixie cuddled close to his chest and listened to each breath she made. He retraced the path he had made following Jonesy. He was glad the ground cover was disturbed. He reached the clearing and made his way to where he had parked. He was not surprised to see his car was gone.

Letting out a breath, he adjusted his hold on Trixie and kept walking. He was certain if he reached the main road, he would find help.

Jim had just passed the entrance to the road when he heard a car coming toward him. He moved to the side and then stopped when the car, a police cruiser, came around the curve. It came to a halt and Sergeant Molinson stepped out.

He said, “Hop in.”

“She needs medical attention,” Jim said as he approached.

Sergeant Molinson opened the back door. Jim carefully sat down in the back seat, settling Trixie on his lap to limit her bouncing around on the trip. He made sure his legs were clear of the door before it was closed. He leaned his head back and closed his eyes as the officer got in and got the car turned around.

“Where is he?” Sergeant Molinson asked.

“I think he took my car,” Jim said as he lifted his head and opened his eyes. “I think he also smacked me in the back of the head when I found Trixie. When I came to, it was just me and her.”

“Did he take the money?”

“Yeah,” Jim said, looking down at Trixie. “He can have it as long as Trixie is all right.”

“We’ll be at the hospital soon,” Sergeant Molinson said. “I’ll call both of your parents once we get there.”

“I’d call them myself, but I lost my phone somewhere,” Jim said tiredly.

“I wouldn’t worry about it. I’m certain your folks will get you a new one.”

The rest of the trip was made in silence. Jim held Trixie, never wanting to let her go. The pounding in his head seemed to increase and he felt it right behind his eyes. He closed his eyes hoping the pain would subside.

“Jim, you can let go,” Sergeant Molinson said making Jim open his eyes.

He turned his head and saw the officer had the door open and was surrounded by a half dozen doctors and nurses.

“They will help her,” Sergeant Molinson said.

Jim reluctantly loosened his hold and Trixie was lifted off his lap and placed on a gurney. She was immediately wheeled inside.

“I’m okay,” Jim said as a doctor took hold of his arm and helped him out.

“Let me be the judge of that,” the doctor said. “Your eyes are unfocused and you are covered in tons of bruises.”

“I’m okay,” Jim repeated. “Trixie needs you more.”

“We’ve got our best people taking care of her,” the doctor said and gently pushed him onto a second gurney. “Just let me make sure you are really all right.”

Jim sighed as he leaned back, knowing he wasn’t going to be able to argue his way out of this.

He was comfortable and no longer felt like his head was trying to beat its way off his neck. From the sounds he heard, Jim knew he was in the hospital. Keeping his eyes closed, Jim tried to remember what happened. He knew Sergeant Molinson found them and got them to the hospital. He knew they both had been wheeled inside. But everything after that was fuzzy. He vaguely recalled the doctor saying he needed stitches and the doctor giving him a shot to numb the area.

Jim slowly opened his eyes and saw the room was beginning to get brighter as if it was a brand new day. He was aware that he had been sleeping partially reclined, instead of flat.

The door opened and he saw Dr. Ferris step into the room.

“Good morning, Jim.”

“Morning,” Jim said.

“How are you feeling?”

“All right,” Jim answered. “Just missing some details as to what happened.”

Dr. Ferris looked at Jim’s chart and then at him. Dr. Ferris asked, “What’s the last thing you recall?”

“I remember being in the emergency room and the doctor said he wanted some x-rays. I went for them and when I got back, the doctor said I needed stitches. He said he would give me a shot to numb the area, but that’s it.”

“Well, looking at your chart, it looks like the doctor gave you a small pain reliever as well as an antibiotic,” Dr. Ferris said. “You got about 15 stitches to close that gash on the back of your head.”

“I don’t remember getting them,” Jim said.

“You both have been through a lot,” Dr. Ferris said.

“Both? Trixie? Have you seen her? Is she all right?”

“Jim, you need to relax,” Dr. Ferris said.

“Is she all right?” Jim repeated.

Dr. Ferris sat in the chair beside Jim and let out a sigh. “Trixie is in the ICU.”

“Intensive care?” Jim asked, shocked.

“She’s being monitored carefully.”

“How bad are her injuries?” Jim asked.

“She has a large gash on her forehead that needed stitches,” the doctor explained. “She also has a concussion. She also has a variety of cuts and bruises.”

“What about her left hand?” Jim asked, remembering how swollen it was.

“Trixie had surgery on it yesterday. A couple of her fingers were broken and since it took time for her to have medical help, she needed the surgery to fix them.”

“Will she have full mobility when they heal?”

“She’ll need some physical therapy, but we believe she will be as good as new when she is fully healed.”

“I need to see her,” Jim said, pushing the blankets off his legs.

“Jim, you need to recover yourself,” Dr. Ferris warned. “You’ve got a head injury.”

“I’ve got to see her,” Jim said.

He slid his legs over the side of the bed and put them on the floor. He stood up straight and felt the world shift beneath him. He clamped a hand over his mouth as he felt like he was going to be sick.

“Easy, Jim,” Dr. Ferris said, wrapping his arm around Jim.

The red-head lowered his hand enough to whisper, “Bathroom.”

They moved around the bed, Jim’s legs trembling with each step. They stepped into the bathroom and Jim sank to his knees in front of the porcelain. What little food he’d eaten came right up. He’d never felt so awful in his life.

“Here’s some water,” Dr. Ferris said.

“Thanks,” Jim mumbled taking the cup. He took a sip and swished it around the inside of his mouth. He spit the water out.

“How are you doing?’ Dr. Ferris asked after a minute.

The pounding in Jim’s head was worse than before. He regretted getting up.

“Are you ready to go back to your bed?”

“Can I have a couple minutes?” Jim asked.

“Sure. I’ll be right here if you need me.”

Jim heard the door close and let out a breath as his eyes slid shut. He focused on breathing and willing away the pain in his head.

Several minutes later there was a knock on the door.

“Jim?”

“I’m coming,” he answered.

He had leveraged himself to stand by the sink, his knuckles white due to his tight grasp. He turned and opened the door to see Dr. Ferris standing there, waiting for him. Dr. Ferris took hold of Jim’s arm and led the shaky young man back to the bed.

Jim leaned back against the pillows and closed his eyes.

“I’ll make you a deal, Jim,” Dr. Ferris said.

He opened his eyes slightly and looked at the doctor waiting for him to continue.

“If you rest all morning, I will return after the lunch trays are removed and take you up to see Trixie myself. But you need to rest. You have a bit of a concussion and it will take time for you to feel better.” Dr. Ferris was quiet for a moment. “Do we have a deal?”

“I can see Trixie?” Jim asked.

“I can take you to the ICU, but there’s no guarantee you’ll get into her room” Dr. Ferris said. “The ICU only allows family members into the room.”

“I am family,” Jim said. “She’s my fiancée.”

“You’re engaged?”

“I proposed after her graduation ceremony and she said yes.”

“Then you may be able to get into the room,” Dr. Ferris said. “But you need to rest now. I’ll have a nurse bring you some juice and crackers in a bit.”

“All right,” Jim said, allowing his eyes to close.

“So, is it a deal?”

“It’s a deal,” Jim said.

“Good. Now rest. I’m certain your parents and Honey will be here as soon as visiting hours start.”

“Thanks, Dr. Ferris.”

“Anytime.” Dr. Ferris patted his arm and left the room.

Jim ate a little of the lunch that was brought under the watchful eye of his parents. His head was still throbbing and any loud noises caused him to wince. But the pain was lessening.

As Dr. Ferris promised, he returned after the lunch trays were removed with a wheelchair. With the help of his father and the doctor, he was able to get out of the bed and sit in the chair. His parents claimed they were going to get something to eat and would see him back there later.

Jim allowed Dr. Ferris to wheel him out of his room and up to the ICU. He tapped his fingers on the arm of the chair, anxious to see Trixie. Part of him hoped she would be awake when he arrived.

Reaching the correct floor, Jim saw Peter and William sitting in the waiting room.

“Jim!” William exclaimed. “How are you doing?”

“I’m all right,” Jim answered. “How’s Trixie?”

“She’s holding her own,” Peter said. “Helen and Penelope are with her now.”

“I am really sorry all this happened,” Jim said. “I should have waited for Trixie instead of heading up to the house. If I had, she wouldn’t be here now.”

“This is not your fault, Jim,” William said. “You didn’t take her. That man, and I use that term loosely, is the only one responsible and he will pay for what he’s done.”

“He wouldn’t have done it if Trixie hadn’t helped me get away from him in the first place,” Jim reasoned.

“He was greedy,” Peter said. “You are not responsible for the actions of others.”

“Can I see Trixie?”

“Go ahead,” William said. “Knock on the door and they will come out. They only want two people in there at time.”

“Okay.”

Dr. Ferris wheeled him down the hall. The closer they got to the room, the more anxious Jim became. Jim peered through the open door when he stopped. Helen and Penelope were seated on either side of Trixie.

He immediately took in the face of his soulmate. It was pale and there was a bandage wrapped around her forehead. His gaze shifted down to her left hand which was on a pillow hidden by bandages. He couldn’t believe all she had suffered because of him.

“Go talk to her,” Penelope said as she stopped by his side. “She needs to hear your voice.”

“Okay,” Jim said.

He rolled himself the rest of the way into the room to the far side of the bed. He reached up and took hold of Trixie’s right hand, giving it a squeeze.

“I’m here, Trix. I’m right here. You are safe and back with everyone who loves you. I’ll be waiting for you to wake. I love you so much and I can’t wait until the day we get married. I know I only gave you the ring a couple days ago, making it official since I’m a bit old fashioned, but I know I’ve loved you since they day we met. My heart is yours and nothing will ever change that. I love you, Trixie. I will love you forever. I will do all I can to keep you safe.”

Jim lifted her right hand and brought it to his lips. As his mouth touched, he felt her hand squeeze his own. He looked at her face and saw a single tear sliding down her cheek from her closed eyes.

“Trix, if you can hear me, squeeze my hand again,” Jim begged.

She squeezed again and he kissed her hand again.

“I love you,” Jim said, reaching for her cheek with his left hand. He wiped the tear away and caressed her cheek with his thumb. “I will be right here.”

His hand was squeezed again.

Jim was certain everything would be all right.

“Jim. Wake up, Jim.”

He rolled his head away, hoping whoever as disturbing him would leave when he didn’t respond.

“Son, you need to wake up.”

Jim opened his eyes and blinked wearily to bring William into focus. He said quietly, “I must have fallen asleep.”

“I hated to wake you, but Sergeant Molinson wants to talk to you,” William said. “He’s pretty insistent.”

“Okay,” Jim said as he sat up.

His head immediately began to throb. He closed his eyes and groaned.

“Jim?”

“I moved too fast,” Jim said softly. He took a couple breaths and looked at William. “I’m okay.”

“He’s waiting down the hall.”

“Okay.” Jim looked at Trixie and squeezed her hand. He let go and William took him out of the room. Jim closed his eyes as he propped his right elbow on the arm of the chair and cradled his throbbing head in his right hand. He hoped this would be brief as he just wanted to sleep.

As he was wheeled along, he got a strong smell of disinfectant that seemed to be trying to cover the smell of cigar smoke. He coughed several times as images of the past tried to force their way to the forefront.

“Jim?” William asked.

“Someone used too much disinfectant,” Jim managed to get out.

“Here we are,” William said.

Jim opened his tired eyes as William backed the chair alongside the couch so that he was positioned to look down the hallway toward Trixie’s room. He saw his parents, along with the Belden’s and Penelope already seated.

“You wanted to see me?” Jim asked, looking tiredly at the officer.

“I have some questions for you,” Sergeant Molinson asked.

“Does this have to be done now?” Matthew asked. “He’s still recovering.”

“There’s information he knows that could help us track Jonesy down,” Sergeant Molinson said. “The sooner we get started, the sooner we can apprehend him.”

“It’s all right,” Jim said. “I can rest afterward.”

“I’m going to go sit with Trixie,” Helen said.

“You might want to wait,” William said. “It looks like the doctor is going into her room.”

Jim looked down the hall and saw a man with scraggly long grey hair with a white lab coat disappear into Trixie’s room.

Warning bells went off in Jim’s head. He pushed himself to his feet and walked unsteadily, but with a purpose down the hall. He could hear the adults calling after him, but he ignored them. He kept his hand on the wall for balance as his pace picked up. There was something off and he had to find out what it was.

Just as he reached the doorway, alarms from inside the room sounded. The man spun around and charged at Jim.

In that instant, Jim knew it was Jonesy. He knew he had to detain him until the others reached his side. But in his weakened condition, he was no match. Jonesy plowed into Jim, who grabbed hold of the lab coat. Jonesy pushed him across the hallway and slammed his head into a glass window.

Jim’s grasp slipped as he sank to the floor among the shards of glass. He watched in what seemed like slow motion as Jonesy turned to escape. He saw William, Sergeant Molinson, Peter and his father rush past after him.

The alarms continued as a veil of darkness covered him. He knew she was gone.

Trixie felt as if she was floating on a cloud. She really didn’t feel any pain, just a light throbbing in her head that seemed to match the beat in her left hand. There were voices talking softly nearby, but she couldn’t make out what they were saying.

It took a great effort, but Trixie was able to get her eyes open. She blinked a few times and brought the light blue room into focus. She slowly moved her head around. She saw an IV bag hanging on her right side with a tube going down to her right hand.

She scanned the room and saw there was a large television at the foot of the bed. Her gaze continued to Helen and Penelope sitting at a table in the corner. There were windows on the left side and the counter was heaped with flower arrangements of every kind and color.

She looked back at the two women and moistened her lips. “Hi,” she managed softly.

They looked and Penelope said, “You’re awake.”

The women hurried to her right side.

“How are you feeling?” Helen asked.

“Okay,” Trixie admitted.

“No pain?” Penelope asked.

“Not really,” Trixie answered.

“That’s good to hear,” Helen said. “I’ll go let the others know you’re awake.”

Helen quickly left the room as Penelope sat down on the side of the bed. She took Trixie’s hand and held it between both of hers.

“This doesn’t look like a hospital,” Trixie commented.

“It’s a private medical center,” Penelope explained. “Once Dr. Ferris gave the okay, we moved you here.”

“How long have I been here?” Trixie asked.

“About two days.”

Trixie remained quiet. She was certain there was more to the reason why she was there, instead of the hospital. Before she could ask, the door opened and Helen returned with Peter and William. They each gave her a gentle hug and a kiss.

“How are you really feeling?” Peter asked.

“I’m all right,” Trixie said. “I just really need to know what happened that caused me to be here.”

“What is the last thing you remember?” William asked.

Trixie was quiet for a moment. “Jim gave me a ride home from the graduation ceremony. We stopped in town by Hoppy. We talked for a minute and then Jim proposed, saying he felt he had to ask, because he’s a bit old-fashioned. He gave me a ring when I said yes.”

Trixie went to lift her left hand, but it seemed weighted down. She wanted to see the ring Jim had given her.

“This ring?” Penelope asked, taking it out of her pocket.

Trixie took the ring and looked at its magnificent beauty. “Why do you have my ring?”

“The police had us hold onto it,” William said.

“That’s the last thing I do remember.” Trixie looked at the adults. “Was there an accident? Is that how I got hurt?”

“Trixie, we will tell you what happened, but you need to relax,” William said.

“Jim brought you to the farm so you could change shoes,” Peter said. “He offered to wait, but you told him to go ahead and that you would be right up. But you never made it to the Manor House.”

“Jim got worried and went down to the farm with Mart,” William said.

They went on to explain what had transpired from that moment, all the way through Jonesy trying to harm her in the hospital.

“We chased after Jonesy and with us, Matt and Sergeant Molinson, we were able to subdue him and he is in custody,” Peter finished.

“I don’t remember anything,” Trixie said. “I don’t remember what happened in the house.”

“It’s all right,” Penelope said. “You have a bit of a concussion and the doctor said you might not remember everything.”

“How else was I hurt?”

“You have some bruises, and your most serious injury was a broken left hand,” Helen said.

Trixie looked at her left hand, which was hidden under the blankets. She took the cover with her right hand and pulled it away to reveal the cast encasing her left hand.

“How bad is it?” Trixie asked, not wanting to lift it off the pillow.

“Your hand has a couple breaks, but they will heal,” Penelope said. “You’ll need some physical therapy when the cast comes off.”

Trixie looked at the adults. “Will I have full use of my hand?”

“You will,” Helen said. “You just need time to heal.”

“How long do I have to be here?” Trixie asked.

“A few days until you’re up and moving around without assistance,” Peter answered.

Before anything else was said, the door to her room creaked open. Trixie looked to see Jim standing in the doorway, looking uncertainly at her.

“Can…can I come in?” Jim asked quietly.

Trixie nodded.

“We’ll let you two talk,” William said.

Trixie kept her eyes on Jim as the adults slipped out of the room. Jim stayed right by the door. “How are you feeling?” he asked.

“Okay,” Trixie answered. “I think whatever medication they are giving me is keeping the pain away.”

“That’s good,” Jim said, his gaze focusing on the floor.

Trixie watched him for a moment. From her position, she could see his pale face and there was a white bandage on the back of his head. She was getting worried since Jim wouldn’t look at her. She wondered if something else happened that she couldn’t remember and her parent’s didn’t know about.

She so wanted Jim to come to the bed and hold her. She wanted him to tell her everything would be all right. But the fact that he stayed right by the door told her something had happened that he could never accept.

Trixie feared what he wasn’t telling her. She asked with a trembling voice, “Jim?”

“I should let you rest,” Jim said quickly. “I’ll talk to you later.” He grabbed the door knob, pulled the door open and disappeared down the hall.

Trixie stared at the door he went through, stunned. She knew whatever happened was her fault. Her eyes closed and silent tears rolled down her cheeks, feeling she lost something wonderful because she couldn’t remember.

The ring fell from her hand and landed on the floor.

Over the next couple days, Trixie started to get up and moving about. The first time had been hard and she felt like she was going to be sick. But the sensation passed. She had her hand in a sling so she could keep it close to her chest and not bang it into anything.

Penelope, William and Helen were at the facility with her the entire time, not wanting her to be alone. Jim was also there, but he only came by to see her when she was about to fall asleep. He asked her how she was feeling and if there was anything she needed. There would be an awkward silence and Jim would say he could see she was tired and leave.

It was three days after she had awakened and she was sitting at the table in her room. Penelope was getting her a drink and snack. Trixie knew William was in the other room. Helen had returned to Sleepyside that morning to take care of a few things at the farm, but promised to return the next day.

As Trixie sat there, she stared at the ring Jim had given her. She had thought it was the most beautiful piece of jewelry, a symbol of their togetherness for a lifetime. But now, Trixie only saw the ring as a forced commitment.

There was a knock on the door and Trixie said, “Come in.”

She looked at the door as Madeleine Wheeler entered.

“How are you feeling, Trixie?” she asked as she approached the table and sat down.

“I’m feeling better,” Trixie said. “Thank you for asking.”

“Do you have a few minutes to talk?” Madeleine asked. “I don’t want to tire you out.”

“I’m fine,” Trixie said. “Is there something specific you want to talk about?”

“Jim.”

That name seemed to send a knife through her heart.

“Trixie, I’m worried about him,” Madeleine said. “Every time he comes back from seeing you, he seems more upset. I didn’t say anything when you first woke up because I knew you were just beginning your recovery, but he seems so lost and alone. He won’t talk to us and I had hoped you could shed some light on your conversations.”

“I wish I could help you,” Trixie said. “I honestly wish I could. But Jim and I have barely spoken since I woke up. He comes in, asks how I’m doing and after a minute or two, excuses himself. He won‘t talk to me.”

“I thought he might have told you something he couldn’t share with us.”

“I don’t know what’s going on,” Trixie admitted. “I could try to talk to him. I would like to know too.”

“That’s all right,” Madeleine said. “I’m certain he’ll talk when he’s ready.”

At that moment Penelope returned to the room.

“Madeleine, I didn’t see you come in,” Penelope said. “I can go get another glass.”

“That’s not necessary,” Madeleine said. “I need to check with Matthew to see when we need to leave. He has a business meeting out west.”

“Thank you for talking with me,” Trixie said.

“Anytime,” Madeleine said with a smile before leaving the room.

“Thank you,” Trixie said taking a sip from the glass Penelope set on the table before taking the seat Madeleine had just vacated.

“You’re welcome,” Penelope said. “I bet you’re probably anxious to get out of here.”

“I am. It seems like I’ve been here forever, but I understand the need.”

“We are so glad you’re going to be all right,” Penelope said.

“I’m sorry you were scared.”

“Hopefully you will never have to go through that again.”

“I hope so too, but there are a lot of people I’ve made angry and put in jail over the years that could easily want revenge,” Trixie sighed.

“They are in for a fight if they think about coming after my daughter,” Penelope said.

“I think they’ll run away if they see you or William standing beside me,” Trixie said, managing a smile.

“We will stand by you forever,” Penelope said.

Trixie was certain they would. She just wondered if someone else would.

It was near midnight and Trixie couldn’t sleep. The throbbing in her hand had increased after she went to bed. The doctor had told her when he’d stopped by that the pain she had in her hand would lessen over time as the injuries healed. She was looking forward to that because it was annoying at times. She considered paging the nurse but figured it was easier to try and push through it on her own without medication.

Trixie slipped out of bed and made her way out of her room, keeping her left hand close to her chest. She thought getting a drink might help her sleep. She reached the small living room and continued on to the kitchen. She pulled a bottle of water out of the refrigerator. As she turned back to the living room, she saw Jim was standing by the window staring out into the night.

The moonlight shined on his pale face and she could see the sadness. It tugged at her heart that he seemed so sad.

“Hey you.”

Jim spun around, startled.

“I’m sorry,” Trixie said. “I thought you heard me in the kitchen.”

“It’s okay,” Jim said quietly.

“Were you having trouble sleeping?” Trixie asked, moving into the living room with the water bottle. She sat down on the couch.

“Nah,” Jim said, turning back to the window. “Just thinking.”

“Is there anything I can do to help?”

“I’ve got to work this out on my own,” Jim said sadly.

Trixie knew she had to know the truth. “Jim, what did I do?”

Jim turned and looked at her again. “What are you talking about?”

“I know something happened when he took me,” Trixie said.

“But…but you said you don’t remember any of your time with him.”

“I don’t.”

“Then how?” Jim asked.

“You,” Trixie said.

“Me?”

Trixie nodded.

“I never said anything,” Jim said.

“Exactly.”

Confusion filled Jim’s face. “You’re not making sense.”

“Let me clarify,” Trixie said, watching Jim carefully. “You’re right. I don’t remember my time with him, which is probably good because the others would be acting just like you. I mean, the person who asked me to marry him must be so horrified at what happened that he has been ignoring or avoiding me for days and can’t even look me in the eye. I get that it’s something you don’t want to tell me, but I have a right to know.”

Trixie was hurt and that was fueling her anger.

“And for someone who claims they really love me, you’ve done a great job at showing it these past few days,” Trixie said sarcastically, allowing her anger to speak. “When two people truly love one other, they are there no matter what. They don’t hide and pop in to give the appearance that things are all right. They stand up and are honest.”

“Trixie…”

“No, Jim. I wanted you to come to my room to tell me what happened. My parents told me, but I wanted to hear it from you. I thought you cared about me enough to do that for me.” Trixie felt the tears fill her eyes and the emotion take over her voice. “It hurts so much that you’ve been avoiding me. I thought you would rush in when I woke and be there all the time, but you seem to just not want anything to do with me and I no longer understand where we stand in our relationship at all. If you don’t love me, just tell me so I’m not wishing for something that isn’t meant to be.”

Trixie buried her face in her right hand and allowed all the tears she had bottled up for the past several days to pour out.

“Oh, Trixie.”

She felt Jim sit beside her and try to pull her into a hug.

“Don’t touch me,” Trixie cried, trying to push him away.

“Come here, Trix,” Jim said, pulling her into his arms.

Trixie fought weakly for a moment, but succumbed to Jim’s urging. She continued to cry as Jim pulled her close and ran his hand in a circular motion on her back.

“Oh, Trixie,” Jim said. “I am so sorry.”

She felt safe in his arms and soaked up the love she had missed.

They sat together for an undetermined amount of time. Trixie’s tears fell until there were no more to shed. Jim held her close.

“Trix, I'm more sorry than you'll ever know,” Jim said, shifting Trixie closer so she was sitting on his lap, tucking her head under his chin. “I never meant for you to feel like I don’t love you. That is the farthest thing from the truth.”

Trixie remained quiet.

“I was afraid that when you woke up you wouldn’t want anything to do with me because it was Jonesy,” Jim said. “And when I walked into your room the first time, the guilt was overwhelming.”

“You shouldn’t feel guilty,” Trixie choked out as she tried to calm down.

“But I do,” Jim said. “If I had only waited for you, then you wouldn’t have been subjected to his anger.”

“If you’d been there, he would’ve made you watch,” Trixie said.

“I would’ve taken the beatings for you,” Jim said, kissing the top of her head. “He is ruthless and can never be trusted.”

“He would’ve hurt me if you were there or not,” Trixie said, curling into Jim. “He hates that I go you away from him and that he lost the opportunity to get his hands on your inheritance.”

“He can have all that money as long as I have you,” Jim said. “Your life is worth more than all the money in the world. I would give it to him again in a heartbeat.”

Trixie opened her eyes as she sat up, turning to look at Jim. “You gave him your inheritance?”

“Trix, I would rather have you than the money.”

“But you were going to use that money to start the school. The one you dreamed about.”

“I can earn more money. I can’t replace you.” Jim put his hand against her cheek, gently brushing away the stray tears that remained. “Trixie, I love you. My thoughts always revolve around you. When I first wake in the morning, I think of you. As I close my eyes at night, I picture you and my dreams are filled with you and your love. I think about you all day, so much that sometimes I wonder how I get anything accomplished.”

Trixie looked at Jim and saw love staring back at her. No hatred. No anger. No disgust. Just love. And that made her feel guilty for accusing him of not loving her and keeping something hidden.

“Come here,” Jim said, tugging gently on her battered body. She curled into him, her left hand resting on his chest. He placed his right hand on hers.

“Trix, we’ll be all right as long as we talk to one another. We both messed this up and it could’ve been avoided if we had admitted our concerns to one another.”

“I will try harder,” Trixie said.

“Me too.” Jim propped his feet on the coffee table. “I will always be there for you, Trix. And I am sorry about these past couple of days.”

“So am I,” Trixie said, allowing her eyes to close. She could feel her body relaxing and knew a restful sleep was near, but she needed to know what happened. “Jim?”

“Yeah?”

“Would you tell me what happened?” Trixie asked softly.

“All right,” Jim said and took a breath. “I was up at the Manor House waiting for you. I was standing so I could see the path. Time passed and I got this feeling that something was wrong. Mart noticed something was up with me and when I voiced my concern, we went down to the farm together.

“We stepped inside and saw blood on the kitchen floor. I freaked out. I went searching for you, hoping you were in the house, somewhere. When we realized you weren’t there, we called Peter and William, and the police. Your dads arrived first and then the police. As the police secured the property, we went up to the Manor House to wait and let our mothers and my dad know what was happening.

“After Sergeant Molinson arrived and found out your true identity, we got the phone call we were waiting for. He had to wait until the following morning for me to get the money out of the bank. We, my dad and I, just returned to the Manor House when my phone rang. He gave me directions to meet him and I did.

“I didn’t trust him,” Jim admitted. “I gave him the money and it seemed like he was going to double cross me. I charged after him and he led me past a dilapidated shed. You were inside.”

Trixie shifted closer to Jim.

“You were unconscious. He had you tied up. I got the ropes cut and then got hit in the head.”

“He hit you?”

“I ended up with a slight concussion and a few stitches.”

“That monster,” Trixie said.

“When I came to, we were alone. I didn’t have my phone and knew you needed medical attention. I picked you up and carried you out. My car was missing, but luckily Sergeant Molinson came along and gave us a ride to the hospital.”

“It was good he was there to help.”

“I really did appreciate it,” Jim said. “I got a bit of a concussion and was prepared to walk all the way to the hospital, but he saved me some time.”

“They said I had surgery on my hand and spent time in the ICU.”

“That’s what I was told too,” Jim said as he began to play with her curls. “I got to see you in the ICU and hoped you would wake up.”

“I guess that didn’t happen right away.”

“No,” Jim said. “William came into the room to let me know Sergeant Molinson wanted to ask me some questions. We were right in the sitting room which was down the hall from your room. I saw someone enter your room and for some reason knew it wasn’t a doctor.

“I went down to your room and just as I reached the door, the alarms went off. Jonesy came out of the room and slammed me into the wall and my head shattered the glass window.

“The next thing I knew I was back in my room with a headache worse than I had ever experienced. I had more stitches and was upgraded to a mild concussion.”

Jim swallowed the lump that formed in his throat. “I was terrified when I woke that he had succeeded and we had lost you. But you were all right. He had accidentally stepped on the cord to your heart monitor and unplugged it, which set off the alarms. A day later you were moved to this facility, which has better security and allowed your family to remain close by.”

“And you’re okay?” Trixie asked.

“Still a bit of a headache, but it lessens each day,” Jim answered.

“I’m glad to hear that,” Trixie said. “And thank you for telling me everything.”

“I will try to be honest with you from here on out.”

“Thank you, Jim.”

“Anytime.” Jim kissed the top of her head again. “Anytime.”

There was several minutes of silence and Jim spoke, “Trix?”

“Yeah?” Trixie answered sleepily.

“Will you marry me?”

“Yes,” Trixie said, a smile filling her face.

“Good,” Jim said. “That’s what I wanted to hear.”

Silence settled on the couple, allowing them to drift toward slumber.

A question popped into Trixie’s head that she needed an answer to. “Jim?”

“Hmmm?” Jim responded.

“Since I missed the graduation party, do you think they’ll plan another one just for me?”

Trixie heard and felt Jim’s chuckle as he pulled her closer. “I have a better idea,” he said sleepily. “When you are feeling better, you and I, no one else, will go out for a graduation dinner.”

“Just us?” Trixie pressed.

“Just us,” Jim confirmed.

Trixie sighed. “I like the sound of that.”

“Me too.”

The two of them relaxed and slipped into their dreams, wrapped in one another’s embrace.

Standing in the shadows, another couple watched and listened.

“I know they’re going to be all right,” Penelope said. “I was worried because they both seemed so lost, but once they started talking it seemed like things would be fine.”

“They do seem to be better when they’re together,” William said. “We should let them sleep.”

“What happened to that overprotective King who didn’t like them being in a room alone together?” Penelope asked.

“I’ve watched them and I know they are two responsible young adults. I trust them.”

“I love you, William,” Penelope said, giving him a kiss.

“I love you, too.”

Penelope took the blanket she had been holding, just in case, and moved over to the couch. She covered them and allowed them to get the peaceful sleep they had been craving for days.