Chapter 13

 

Caleb was quite pleased with his plans for this new game. He had waited until the house was empty to set the first move in motion, and then stepped back and allowed everything to fall into place.

To destroy the trust of a couple who had loved each other deeply for almost twenty-six years was power, and Caleb looked forward to watching this parent’s marriage crumble before their eyes. Miranda, on the other hand, was a different matter. She would never believe that her beloved, Gerald would betray her, so her role in the game would take extra care to ensure perfection.

Caleb, has Millie returned yet,” Elizabeth asked when she and Miranda walked into the library where he was reading.

I don’t believe so, mother, but I have been in here for most of the afternoon,” Caleb responded as if uninterested.

It’s getting late, and she should be home by now. I hope nothing has happened to her.”

Elizabeth knew that Millie had planned to spend the day with her sister, but she would never stay out this late.

Mother, why don’t we prepare the dinner tonight? It would be fun, and besides I need the practice. I don’t want to starve Gerald once we’re married,” Miranda giggled at the idea of Gerald having to eat her dreadful cooking.

That does sound like fun. Let’s go see what we can come up with,” Elizabeth smiled, as she took Miranda by the hand and walked toward the kitchen.

Caleb watched the two women walk to the kitchen, giggling like a couple of schoolgirls. He smiled, as he thought of his mother’s reaction once she found the notebook, and the coming events that would stem from that revelation.

Well, let’s see what Millie had planned for dinner this evening. I know she keeps her weekly menu in one of these drawers.”

Elizabeth opened several of the drawers until she found Millie’s meal planner. “Ah, here it is. Let’s see, today is Thursday, so it looks as if she planned to make pork chops, stuffed with rice pilaf and a tossed salad. That shouldn’t be too difficult to prepare. Look in the refrigerator and see if the pork chops are in there,” Elizabeth pointed toward the refrigerator while reaching for a large baking pan.

Here they are and look, she’s already put the stuffing in them.” Miranda set the container with the pork chops down next to the baking pan.

Wonderful, that will save us some work. It says to bake at 325 degrees for fifty minutes. Okay, why don’t you turn on the oven while I put the pork chops in the pan?”

Elizabeth was happy that Millie had already prepared the pork chops because she was not sure if she could have made the stuffing as delicious as Millie’s always tasted.

Okay, the oven is preheating. Now, what do we do next?” Miranda waited while her mother put each pork chop in the baking pan. “Those are going to be delicious.”

I hope so. You know, I am concerned that she still has not returned. It’s so unlike her. Maybe I should call her sister, and see if she’s left there yet.”

Elizabeth walked to the kitchen telephone and looked at the small notepad hanging on the wall. “Here’s her number.” She was about to dial the number when the telephone began to ring. She looked at Miranda with a look of relief on her face and smiled, “Maybe that’s her now.”

She answered the call, “Hello.”

Hello, this is Millie’s sister, and I was wondering if she’s there?” Janice, Millie’s older sister, asked.

No, I thought she was still visiting you,” Elizabeth said with a growing sense of dread. She knew something must be wrong because Millie would always let someone know where she was going, or when she would return.

No, she never showed up. Oh my, that’s strange. We were supposed to go shopping for Miranda’s wedding present today, and then go have a manicure and pedicure,” Janice said, nervously.

Is there someone else she may have gone to see before you?”

Elizabeth knew Millie did not have many friends, but maybe she had stopped somewhere on the way to her sister’s house.

No, I talked to her first thing this morning and she told me she would be over after she had cleaned up the breakfast dishes and prepared a few things for dinner tonight. She said she was worried if we took a little longer than expected the dinner to be late. I’m worried; this is so unlike her.”

Elizabeth had to agree. Millie was always dependable. “Let me know if you hear from her, and I’ll have her call you if she comes home.” Elizabeth looked at Miranda and shook her head.

I will. Thank you for caring about Millie. She has always said such nice things about you and your family.” Janice took a deep breath, trying to hold back her tears. “Goodbye.”

Now, try not to worry. I’m sure she’s okay. She’ll probably show up soon, goodbye, Janice.”

Elizabeth hung up the telephone and looked at Miranda. “This makes no sense at all. Millie would never disappear like this. Would you go see if her car is in the carport?”

Sure, but maybe someone picked her up?” Miranda thought aloud, as she walked toward the back door.

I don’t know, but I have the strangest feeling that something isn’t right.”

Elizabeth took the baking pan with the pork chops, put it into the oven, and set the timer. She then walked to the refrigerator and gathered the makings for the salad.

I sure hope she is okay,” Elizabeth thought aloud while she washed the lettuce for the salad.

Mother, her car is out there and it doesn’t look as though she’s used it in several days by the layer of dust on it.” Miranda cried out, as she rushed through the back door.

Oh dear, I wonder if she took sick and went to her room?” Elizabeth turned off the water and grabbed a dishtowel to dry her hands. “I’ll go to her room and see if she’s there.”

Elizabeth gave Miranda a nervous smile before she turned and walked to Millie’s room in the back of the house.

Elizabeth stopped outside the door and gently knocked then waited for a response: nothing. She knocked again, but this time she opened the door a couple of inches, “Millie, are you in here?”

Is she in there?” Miranda came up behind her mother, trying to see in the room.

Millie, dear, are you okay?” Elizabeth whispered as she slowly opened the door. “Oh, Millie, no!”

The vision before their eyes was something neither woman could have ever imagined. Millie lay stretched out on her bed with one hand hanging over the edge, and an empty medicine bottle lying on the floor next to the bed.

Elizabeth rushed to her and felt for a pulse. “Quick, call 911, I can’t feel a pulse!”

You call; move out of my way,” Miranda shoved her mother aside, positioning herself to perform CPR on the lifeless body. “Mother, we are too late; she’s already cold.”

No, it can’t be. She can’t be dead,” Elizabeth took Millie’s cold hand in hers. “How could this happen?”

It looks as if she took her life. Look at the empty bottle of sleeping pills lying on the floor.”

Miranda reached down and picked up the bottle. “She had this filled only a few days ago, and now it’s empty. Why would she do this, mother?”

I don’t know. She had told me how she was having problems sleeping, so I suggested that she talk to her doctor about it. She said that she had a lot on her mind, but I never thought she would do anything so drastic. What horrible thing could have driven her to do something like this?” Elizabeth felt her knees buckle, and for a moment, she thought she might faint.

Careful mother, you need to sit down. Come with me back out to the kitchen and sit before you fall. I will call the authorities and Millie’s sister.”

Miranda took her mother by the arm and led her back to the kitchen. She knew this would be difficult for her mother because Millie had been with the family for years.

Thank you for being so strong. I don’t know what I would have done if you were not here,” Elizabeth cried, as she sat at the small table in the corner of the kitchen.

Miranda knew this would be a scandal with the local media turning it into front-page news.

Here’s a small glass of wine to help you relax, mother. Now sit here and I’ll handle everything.”

The local law enforcement and paramedics showed up at the house with the media in tow. It always amazed Miranda how the media seemed to know what was going on almost before the authorities. She met the patrol officers and paramedics at the front door and led them back to Millie’s bedroom. “As you can see, she’s been dead for several hours.”

When was the last time you saw her alive?” the older officer asked.

I guess around nine thirty this morning. After breakfast, Mother and I had left to go shopping for my wedding. Millie was supposed to go spend the day with her sister, so we assumed she was there when we returned home.”

Miranda felt uncomfortable standing there answering questions, as the paramedics examined Millie for any signs of life.

She’s gone. We need to contact the coroner and let him know he needs to get out here,” the paramedic said, as he looked up at Miranda with sadness in his eyes.

You can use the telephone on the bedside table if you would like,” Miranda pointed toward the table.

He’s not going to be too happy getting called away from his dinner,” the other paramedic chuckled.

How can you laugh at a time like this?” Miranda cried out, shooting them a displeased look.

I’m sorry, we didn’t mean any disrespect,” the first paramedic said, as he looked at the other one for support.

He’s right; this is not the time for jokes. We’re very sorry,” the second one said, hoping she would not report them.

Come on, miss. Why don’t we go back to the kitchen and continue there,” the older officer took Miranda by the arm and guided her to the door. He looked over his shoulder at the two young men and gave them a disapproving look then he followed Miranda out of the room.

Mother, why is there a police car and an ambulance parked out in front of the house?” Caleb feigned surprised, as he walked into the kitchen.

Oh baby, come here!” Elizabeth cried, as she held her arms open for Caleb. “It’s Millie, she is…,” the words caught in her throat.

Son, have you been home all day?” the older officer asked Caleb.

Caleb looked the man over. He appeared to be in his mid-forties, clean-shaven, and with a slight belly paunch. “Yes, I was in the library reading most of the day, but I guess I must have fallen asleep because the next thing I realized is all the commotion. What’s going on with Millie? Is she sick? I thought she was at her sister’s house for the day.”

The officer looked at Caleb, not sure if he was honest with him. “So, you’re saying that you didn’t know she was still at home, and that you didn’t hear anything?”

Miranda interrupted, “What are you insinuating, Officer?”

It’s Ramsey, miss,” he responded, never taking his eyes away from Caleb.

Officer Ramsey, I don’t understand why you’re questioning my brother when it’s obvious that she took her life. If my brother says he didn’t know she was still at home, then he didn’t know!”

Miranda did not care for the way the officer looked at Caleb. It was as though he believed Caleb had something to do with Millie’s apparent suicide.

Sir, I have always liked Millie. She has been with this family for many years and has always treated me with respect, so if you’re accusing me of something; I wish you would simply come out with it!” Caleb held Officer Ramsey gaze, daring him to continue with his current line of questioning.

I’m sorry; I guess there isn’t anything here other than a woman, who for some reason decided to take her life. It is a shame because she was an attractive woman,” Officer Ramsey shook his head.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

That must be Janice. I called her after I called the authorities,” Miranda rushed to the back door and opened it to see a frantic Janice, standing on the back porch.

Miranda called and told me that Millie had killed herself. She can’t be dead because I spoke to her this morning. Where is she?” Janice cried, as she grabbed the counter top to keep from collapsing to the floor.

Oh Janice, it’s terrible, just terrible,” Elizabeth cried out.

After I talked to you on the telephone, I became concerned and began to look for her. Miranda went outside and found Millie’s car parked in the carport, so I decided to see if maybe she had fallen ill and decided to rest in her room. When we opened the door to her room, we found her…, oh, lord, it’s just horrible!” Elizabeth could not bring herself to say the words because they were too painful. She covered her face with her hands and dropped back into her chair crying.

I want to see my sister!” Janice demanded.

She began to walk toward the room, but Officer Ramsey grabbed her arm, holding her in place. “You need to stay out here until the coroner arrives and releases the body for transport to the morgue.”

Let go of my arm, now! I’m going to see my sister so you will have to shoot me to keep me out of that room,” Janice growled, in a threatening tone.

I promise that I won’t disturb anything important,” she glared at him.

Okay, as long as you promise to behave yourself. Follow me.” He released her arm and led Janice to Millie’s room.

What happened to Millie?” Caleb struggled to hide the joy building inside of him at how things were coming together for this move.

She overdosed on sleeping pills, Caleb. Millie’s dead,” Miranda whispered, hoping not to upset her mother again.

I don’t understand. Are you saying that she killed herself, but that makes no sense? She was always so cheerful. I never remember her being upset about anything,” Caleb whispered.

Of course, he knew the truth, but he must be careful not to make anyone suspicious.

Miranda looked at her mother and wondered how this would affect her. She knew they had become close over the years, and she knew how Millie had always been there for her mother. Elizabeth had been through a difficult time a few years ago with depression, and Millie had watched over her during the day when everyone else was at school or work.

Come on, mother, why don’t you go up to your room and rest. There’s nothing more you need to do, and I don’t think you need to be here when they take her away.”

Elizabeth looked at Miranda through tear-soaked eyes, “You’re right. Maybe it would be for the best if I retired to my room.”

Miranda took her by the arm. “I’ll walk with you, Mother.”

I’ll be just fine. You stay here in case they need any more information. Thank you for being so strong, I don’t think I could have handled this alone.”

Elizabeth looked one last time toward Millie’s bedroom before she turned and left the kitchen.

Is she going to be all right?” one of the paramedics asked, as he walked into the kitchen. He sensed that she was on the verge of collapse by the tragic loss.

Yes, she only needs to rest for a while but thank you for your concern,” Miranda said as she watched the door close behind her mother.

It looks as if the coroner is here,” the paramedic announced, as he opened the back door.

Good afternoon, I am Dr. Franks, where is she?” He waited by the door, looking around the kitchen.

She’s back here, doctor.” The paramedic led the way to Millie’s bedroom.

No, no, I want to stay with her!” Janice cried out, as the younger police officer forced her back to the kitchen.

I’m sorry, ma’am, but you can’t be in there while the doctor’s examining her.” He knew this was a painful time for her, but there were procedures to follow at times such as this.

This is not right! Millie would never take her life. She was a happy person and looked forward to every day with a pure love of life. None of this makes sense,” Janice cried, leaning on the counter for support.

Come sit down, Janice.” Miranda helped her to one of the chairs at the small table. “I’m sorry; I wish I had an answer for you.”

Janice dropped her head, cupping her face in her hands. “I can’t believe this. She would never take her life, I just know it.”

Caleb stood by the table, watching all the activity. This move is perfection; he thought to himself.

He anticipated the effect it would have when they found Millie’s notebook and the secrets written on its pages. Caleb thought back to the day when he had come across her little book of secret thoughts and dreams. He was also pleased with how easy it had been to alter a few things written on the pages. I look forward to the next step to this move.

The gurney appeared from the room with a sheet covering the still figure lying upon it. Miranda wrapped her arms around a weeping Janice, trying to comfort her.

Millie, why did you do this?” Janice sobbed.

Why don’t I drive you home, and once Father get’s here, I’ll bring your car to you. There’s nothing more you can do, and you need to be with the rest of your family at this difficult time.” Miranda knew Janice was in no condition to drive, and the last thing she wanted was to have something horrible happen to her. “Caleb, please keep an eye on Mother until I return, okay?”

I will, don’t worry. You need to focus on Janice now,” he smiled, with a false sense of concern.

I think we’re done here for now. It looks to be a clear case of suicide, so barring anything strange showing up in the autopsy, I don’t see any reason to do anything else at this time.”

Officer Ramsey smiled at Miranda. “I’ll try to get the media gathered outside to leave before you take her home.” He looked at Janice with sadness showing in his eyes.

Thank you Officer, and thank you for being so respectful,” Miranda held out her hand.

You’re very welcome, but I’m only doing my job.” He returned her handshake and then walked out the door.

Janice, let’s wait a few minutes and see if he can clear some of those gathered outside. Neither of us is in the mood for any questions at this time,” Miranda forced a smile.

Thank you for your kindness, Miranda. Millie had always spoken highly of you, and she was so excited about your upcoming wedding. We were supposed to go shopping for your wedding gift today,” Janice wiped a tear from her cheek.

Caleb could no longer handle all the crying. “I’m going to check on Mother.” He turned to Janice and attempted to appear understanding and concerned. “I’m very sorry for your loss. Millie was a good and kind woman, and she will be greatly missed.”

Thank you, Caleb. I know she cared deeply for you.” Janice and Millie had shared many conversations over the years, and Millie had always said how nice the entire family had been to her.

Come on, Janice, it looks as if Officer Ramsey was successful at clearing out the mob of reporters.” Miranda took Janice by the arm and helped her to her feet then they both walked toward the back door.

I will be right back, Caleb. If Father should get home before I return, please tell where I am, okay?”

I will. Now, be careful, we don’t want another tragedy today,” he waved, as he watched them walk out the back door.

Once Miranda and Janice had left, Caleb walked to the liquor cabinet and prepared a drink. He then went upstairs to his mother’s room.

Mother, I brought you a drink; I thought it might help you relax,” he whispered at the door.

Please come in and thank you, sweetheart. I’m a lucky woman to have such wonderful children.” Elizabeth took the glass from him and drank the majority of the drink in one swallow.

Oh, that was good, thank you. I think I’m going to try to take a nap before your father gets home. Would you be a dear and check if the oven timer has gone off? I put some pork chops in there earlier, and I don’t want them to go to waste.”

Don’t worry, I will. Why don’t you finish your drink and I’ll take care of everything. I love you, Mother,” Caleb smiled, as he watched her take the last swallow of the drink.

Thank you, sweetheart. I’m feeling much better now.” Elizabeth took Caleb by the hand and gave it a firm squeeze.

I think I will rest for a while.” Feeling the effect of the drink, she laid her head down on the silk-covered pillow and closed her eyes.

Caleb stood and watched his mother slip off into a deep slumber. “Sleep well, Mother, for tomorrow the fun begins.”