The ordinary life illusion

Sometimes, the ordinary life is just an illusion, and like glass can shatter at any moment to reveal the secrets that shielded from the world. Honey Wheeler is shaken by lies told by someone she has known for a long time.

A story from the Tangled Web series

Chapter 1- The shock

New York City- 145am

Agent Fiona Lester groaned loudly as her phone rang. She knew that phone calls at this hour were most likely work related and probably not pleasant. There would come a day when she would not want to answer the phone and decide to walk away from her life with the FBI . However today was not that day. Reaching across her bed, she grabbed her phone off the small table where she had placed it last night. "Hello", she said sleepily.

"Morning Fi", came the subdued voice of her partner Jason Hawkins. She could already tell from the way he had greeted her that something shocking had happened. After those two words came a period of silence. Jason was still on the end of the phone as she could hear him breathing . His rapid sucking in of breaths were an effort to calm himself and tell her why he'd phoned.

"Fiona, there has been a sighting", Jason finally reported. He added no further information ,just continuing his rapid breathing.

She could feel coldness settle upon her now, as she sensed her partners distress. What was he talking about. "A sighting", she focused upon the last words.

"Yes Fi. It's that case, the one that means so much to you", Jason's voice was shaky.

The coldness intensified, and her body began to shake. Now she knew exactly who he was talking about. Her gaze flickered to the photograph just next to the phone.

For a moment anguish, made her throat construct, and no words were possible. Jason did not try and draw her out of this state, just waiting quietly until her misery abated. "It's been so long Jason", she finally whispered. ""Six years have gone by". "Are you sure".

"Well the person who made the phone call seemed to be certain. But we can never know for sure", Jason swallowed. "If the sighting was correct, then we both know what is going to follow".

Fiona could feel hot tears roll down her face. She held in the scream that attempted to break free. It was a primal scream filled with rage. Her fingers reached out toward the photo, in an attempt to once again touch her brother. She was now an only child because of a killer. Her brother Baxter had been one of the victims, of 'the one who waits', a serial killer. She had joined the FBI , because she had been dissatisfied with the progress made on the case. In her mind, the solution was a simple one, find the killer.

But years had passed without any significant progress. The killer has most likely slipped back into their ordinary life, put on the mask they wore in front of others and kept living a lie. A sighting meant that unfortunately an ordinary life was not enough. The mask was about to drop and another person would be killed. Unless they managed to stop the murder from happening.

"We will need to go and interview the person who made the sighting and get more facts", Fiona croaked out. Her brain was slowly beginning to move from shock mode back into work mode. She would need to be at her sharpest to find this killer.

"That's why I rang, Jason confirmed. "I have an address to give you."

Fiona wrote down the details with a hand that had not stopped shaking. This time, she told herself.

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Manor House, Sleepyside on the Hudson, 730 am

Honey Wheeler sat up in her bed and stretched her hands up high toward the ceiling. "It's another beautiful day", she proclaimed happily. She remembered times in the past when she would simply lay there under the covers not wanting to face the day. Every day living had felt awkward and stressful, and often she start the day with tears.

Thinking of those times brought sorrow. All those days wasted in misery , when she should have been embracing life.

Like she did now. She was starting the day with an inner confidence that surrounded her like a shield. Nothing could, or would ever shake her again.

It was the amazing people in her life that had helped her, Trixie, her best friend, Majory Trask her former school teacher , now instilled at the Manor house with her, and of course the Bob whites, the club of 7 friends who supported each other.

Sliding herself from her bed, Honey dressed casually for the morning. Visitors were arriving later, after lunch and that would mean she would have to change into more formal clothing.

The arrival of visitors had been another thing she had always dreaded. It felt like she was just paraded out in front of people for them to stare at, and then comment harshly about her life. "Ohh she's a little quiet, doesn't she know how to talk or "why does she always look downward, at her feet, can't she even look someone in the eye."

Of course it was comments like that that had made her too afraid to look at people, or to stand up for herself.

It had always been her father that had defended her in those situations. "Madeline won't talk if she feels like she is always undertaking some type of test", he had said rather bluntly to one of those criticisers. His face at been red, with his temper barely held in check. That person had never visited again.

Honey's mother, at all those times, said nothing and that fact had hurt deeply. Now that she knew more about her mother, she could see that she had grown up with the same comments hurled her way. Well meaning people thought you'd be shaped by being disparaging ,when in truth all that was born was self loathing and anger.

Now Honey felt empowered to help her mother become more like her, still a lovely ,well meaning person, but also one who could stand up for themselves.

Now dressed Honey opened her door and move quietly and gracefully into the hallway. She could hear Miss Trask humming as she worked. She followed the sound, until it faded away suddenly.

Rounding the corner, Honey saw Miss Trask, straightening some items on a nearby shelf, while looking out of the window. She had a little smile upon her face as she gazed intently downward.

Most likely she was enjoying the flowers in the garden or perhaps seeing one of the many little creatures that came to visit them. Honey gazed out of the window nearest her, hoping to catch a glimpse of whatever had captured her attention.

She felt herself frown as all she saw were two men, having an early morning chat. One was her father, who was off for his early morning ride on the beautiful high spirited horse Jupiter. This was his normal morning routine, requiring nothing unusual that would capture the attention of Miss Trask.

So her gaze must have been intended for the other man, who was also mounted, on an equally stunning mare.

He was only an occasional morning visitor. But he was a local resident ,so he should not be attracting such scrutiny.

Honey studied Miss Trask's face with a discerning 'almost detective' gaze. Trying to determine what the look meant. She felt herself beginning to blush ,as she realised, that Miss Trask was actually 'checking out', Simon Saunders, in an admiring way. She reflected that she'd never seen Miss Trask look at a man like that before. In fact, to her knowledge Majory Trask had never dated a man since arriving in Sleepyside.

Miss Trask had been totally dedicated to looking after her, and the Wheeler household and it had seemed that meant she did not have a dating life.

Now it looked like she was interested in Sleepyside's most eligible bachelor. Simon Saunders was described in Sleepyside, as "one hot babe". He was the definition of tall, dark and handsome.

But he was also a great deal younger that Marjory. She doubted Mr Saunders, would be likely to ask Miss Trask on a date.

He had taken her to the skaters ball about 11 months ago. Honey thought, that was just because Simon wanted to thank Miss Trask for looking after Dan when he'd been sick.

They'd never gone out again after that date.

Honey stepped forward slightly, causing a floorboard to squeak underfoot.

Miss Trask turned from the window to face her. She was blushing brightly in the face. "Oh Honey dear, I was just umm", Miss Trask sounded uncharacteristically flustered.

"Getting things ready for our visitors", Honey added tactfully. She would not dream of embarrassing Miss Trask by saying "you were checking out one of my friends fathers".

"Yes, that's right", Miss Trask, shook off her embarrassment at getting caught out staring at Simon Saunders. She was lucky it was Honey and not one of the staff that had seen her. Otherwise the gossip would have already started.

"Well ,I will let you get back to work. I am going to go down to the stables to see if Regan needs any extra help grooming the horses", Honey told Miss Trask. Even though the visitors were not interested in the horses her father would still give them a tour of the stables because he wanted to show off the beauty and grace of his horses.

"Thank you", was all Miss Trask replied. She turned heel and hurried off quickly as if fleeing from her own emotions.

Honey made her way downstairs to the stables. She knew Bill Regan had already been up for hours, undertaking all the work required to care for a stable of horses.

" We will see you in a couple of days", she heard Mr Saunders tell Bill. For a moment Bill Regan dropped his gaze downward. He looked sad Honey reflected.

Simon Saunders, was both his brother and brother in law. Harriet and Gregory Saunders, Simon's parents had adopted Bill Regan not that long ago, making him part of a wider group of family. That had changed alot of things for the groom.

Not too long ago Bill Regan had actually loathed Simon Saunders. He had shockingly discovered that the skating coach had been the long term boyfriend of his sister Patricia . That meant that Simon had been in Dan Mangan's life alot longer than he had.

There had nearly been a custody battle over who had the right, to be a parent to Daniel.

When Simon was nearly murdered. It set in motion a chain of events that led to the discovery that he was Dan's father.

Instead of wrenching Dan's life apart and taking him back to New York City, Simon Saunders had settled in Sleepside and asked Bill to live with him Dan, and two adopted daughters, Hope and Alena.

Bill Regan was obviously going to miss Simon and his nieces and nephew while they were away in New York City.

Her father had agreed to board Simon's young Appaloosa mare Poppy, while he was away.

"Please be careful", the words fell from Bill Regan's lips as he took hold of Poppy's reins. He was thinking of all the danger that Simon managed to attract.

"Of course", Simon agreed. He dismounted and gave Bill as back slapping hug. Then he was off .

"Morning Honey", her father called out. "Morning dad", Honey responded with a smile.

Her father rode off .

Honey turned to Bill Regan, "what would you like me to do", she asked.

Bill gave her a smile, "I have a list", he said.

Honey knew all the jobs were going to keep her busy. She would not be alone for long though, Jim and the other Bob Whites would join her shortly as they finish their own morning chores.

xxxxx

New York City 0800.

Fiona sipped on her coffee. It had been a fruitless couple of hours, searching through dark streets for any sign of the "one who waits". The witness had been 95 percent positive they had sighted the wanted serial killer in a back alley that led down to the nightclub district.

She and Jason had spent hours visiting all the club, bars and eateries , showing off a grainy photo of the killer.

"I think we are wasting our time", Jason sighed. "If the killer has found a new victim, then they would look like any other couple enjoying a night out."

"Yes, they would", Fiona responded angrily. She wanted things to be easy. But of course this killer would not still be free after many years if things were that simple.

"It might already be too late", she mused. "We might find a victim soon".

Jason knew she was probably right. But they could not give up. "Let's wake up a few more club owners", he suggested.

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Manor House 1245 pm

Mrs Layena Jameson, grabbed hold of her husband's hands firmly, as the door to the Manor house was opened by a maid.

She was determined to let the Wheeler's know, that her family was far more impressive than theres.

"This is an amazing house", her brother Kent gasped as they stepped inside. She inwardly cursed him for joining her on this visit. He was already saying the wrong thing.

"Well, it's not as grand as our house in Paris", she replied snootily, 'and certainly smaller than our own residence in Manhattan." I suppose this place has a bit of ' old world charm", she deliberately put the emphasis on 'old'.

They were ushered into the main living area, where Matthew Wheeler and family awaited them.

"Oh so nice to see you again Matthew", Mr Montague Jameson, said as he bowed firmly ,then shook Matt's hand.

"Thank you, it is lovely to see you both". We have not yet had the opportunity to meet your brother", Matt held out his hand.

"This is Kentigen ", Layena introduced. "He's 5 years younger than myself. "

"Welcome to the Manor House Kentigen", Matt told him.

Kent's gaze drifted around the large room. He almost missed seeing the woman and two teen's seated on the far side of the room. "Come and meet my wife and children", Matt told them.

Kent observed that the two females looked quite similar in appearance.

"This is my wife , Madeleine, my son James, and my daughter Madeleine", Matthew Wheeler introduced.

"We've met before when you were quite small", Layena told Honey. "You are as lovely as your mother dear".

"Thank you", Honey replied softly.

Layena moved over to stand in front of Jim. "I heard you had adopted an orphan", she said.

"Yes", was all Matt said. "That was very generous of you Matthew", Montague remarked.

Jim began to feel hot. Mr Jamesons tone seemed to be slightly mocking.

"We adopted him for love not generosity', Matt replied with an almost snap.

Montague bowed his head, "of course dear boy I meant no offence". He offered his hand to Jim. "It's nice to meet you James. So tell me what sort of career are you looking at for the future".

Jim shook off the sliver of anger that had been growing. He had no wish to embarrass his parents. "I plan to run my own school for boys, from a disadvantaged background", he stated firmly.

He noted with pleasure that all the Jamesons looked impressed. 'How about you Madeleine junior", Layena asked. "I imagine, a girl like yourself would be involved in creative pursuits".

Honey restrained the smile that threatened to come to her face. These people had obviously made a judgement based on her appearance. They were about to get a big surprise.

"I am going to run a detective agency with my best friend", she stated proudly. Head up, she looked them right in the eyes.

"A detective, you", Layena almost laughed. "Dear, you don't look like you'd last a week".

"Honey, had already involved herself in many cases and successfully solved some very baffling situations", Madeleine Wheeler said primly.

She coloured a little a few seconds later as she felt suddenly shocked by her own forthrightness. However when she saw her daughter beam at her, the embarrassment faded . Honey needed to know she supported her.

"Honey, I can see why you call her that, though it's not really a society name", Montague remarked.

"It's a name we like", Matt replied. He was admittedly getting tired of these visitors. He had forgotten how 'set in their ways' , they were.

"Detective's have a difficult job", Kent said softly. "I wished I had found one competent enough to help me find my runaway bride".

"Runaway Bride", Matt repeated. He had not expected his guest's to have anything this interesting to tell them.

Kent rubbed his eyes, as a tear appeared . Every time he told this story it brought back the emotion. It still felt like it had just happened yesterday. Since he'd already ignited the curiosity of the others he could hardly deny telling the story." Yes, it happened a few years ago now. I was engaged to my childhood sweetheart, Millie Trent. We were both looking forward to celebrating our lives together. Then on our wedding day, she failed to turn up . I never saw her again. Despite an intense investigation, no trace of her was ever found". Kent swallowed, "so Honey Wheeler, if you want to be a detective, you have to harden yourself to the possibility that some things just don't work out."

Honey could feel her own tears beginning to form. Kent's voice had shaken the entire time he had spoken about his lost love. She would have to get used to hearing stories like this. She would also have to get used to making the right type of response. "I am very sad to hear about your lost love Mr Harlow. One of the reasons I want to be a detective is to help people like you."

Kent managed a weak smile, "thank you young lady", he replied.

The room went silent. Laylena could feel the awkwardness. Her brother should not be talking about something so personal in front of the Wheelers. High emotions like this were only reserved for close friendships and in the right setting. This was definitely not the right time. She'd have to change the subject quickly before everyone felt more depressed.

"We are holding a grand ball in our Paris home next Spring. It will attract some of societies most elite". I suppose you don't get an opportunity for anything like that in this small town", Layena observed.

Madeleine Wheeler stood gracefully and almost glided across to a large cabinet. She slid open a drawer and produced a gold photo album. "We held a ball here, for the United States skating team", she told Layena. "We were privileged to host such an event, with world wide media attending".

She had secretly always dreaded visits by Layena, as she loved to compare everything, and find fault with things that did not measure up to her high standards. The fact they now lived in a small town like Sleepyside meant that in Layena's eyes that were no longer considered to be as worthy as they had been before. That actually really annoyed her. So she was about to share some information that would put snob Layena firmly in her place.

Layena opened the album and gazed at the photos. She had to admit she was impressed by the way the manor house had been decorated for the ball. All the guests looked impeccably attired. One in particular caught her eye because he was so very attractive. Now normally she would just admire without comment, but somehow, "is he a skater, he's totally gorgeous ", just slipped out. She saw her husband cast her a disapproving look, but decided she did not care.

"Yes, that's Mr Simon Saunders, Olympic gold medalist, and recent resident of Sleepyside", Matt told her.

Kent leaned over so he could have a look. "All those female skaters are so tiny", he observed. He thought they were also beautiful. Then when his sister turned over the page, a different sensation overcame him. He felt suddenly faint, "oh my gosh, its her Millie", he grabbed the photo album from his sister.

Holding it close to his face he examined the picture of the woman in the photo carefully. "It's her, it's her, I can't believe it", he stammered.

Letting the album drop, he raised his hands to his face and tried to hide as emotion overtook him.

Layena, retrieved the album and took a look at the photo. She nodded breathlessly, "he's right Monty, it is Millie".

Turning the album toward the Wheelers' she asked, "where can we find this woman".

Honey Wheeler felt shock fill her. "Are you saying that she is your lost bride", she asked tentatively.

"Yes, I am sure that is Millie", Kent replied . "She can't be Millie", Honey stated firmly.

"My daughter is correct, that woman can't be your lost bride, we have known her for many years, she is our household manager Marjory Trask", Matt confirmed.

"Well the only way to make certain, is for us to see her", Layena insisted, "can you invite her to join us".

"Of course",Matt replied.

Honey began to tap her fingers on her legs as she waited. She was sure this was just a case of mistaken identity.

Five minutes passed, then ten, then twenty.

"What is taking so long", Kent insisted. "If your staff can't find her, then I am going to look myself". He jumped off his chair and before they could stop him charged through the nearest door.

He then began yelling "Millie, Millie", as he raced through the rooms.

A rather breathless looking Celia, came down the main staircase as he was running upward.

"Celia, where is Miss Trask", Matt asked.

Celia, looked nervous, "Sir I have searched her room, then every other place she was likely to be and cannot find her".

"Thats ridiculous, Miss Trask would not just leave, she must be somewhere", Matt insisted.

They all began to search. After one hour of fruitless searching, they discovered that Marjory Trask had indeed disappeared.

Honey felt like one of the 'rocks' of her life had just been wrenched from her. She would have sworn on oath that Marjory was not the type to have secrets. Yet it seemed that she she was known by a different name by these people. So she had hidden the truth from them for a very long time.

The question was ,why?.