Kidnapped by the Black Shadow (2/3)

Chapter 14: Tension rising

Natalie starts the car. Sirens whiz past, accompanied by police cars.

No.

We drive away, leaving my mother in a cloud of exhaust smoke. I collapse against my seat.

No.

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There is swearing in this chapter

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Nate's POV:

We left the car in a nearby back street, and wove our way back to the hotel tiredly. Jade supported Doris, and Natalie kept an eye on Cassie in case she tried to escape.

But there was no need. Cassie seemed deflated, but at the same time happy. It was a weird and confusing mix of emotions. I doubted she was going to run anywhere.

When I was holding her in the car, I had tried not to focus too much on the fact she was clinging to me like I was a life raft.

No. I thought, mentally shaking myself. She just needed someone to be there for her, hell, it could've been anyone, even Natalie.

I glanced over at Natalie's face, which was bored and on the slightly pissed offside of things. Never mind.

Jade spoke in low tones to Doris, her long (formally purple) black hair coming loose from its bun.

Sirens wailed faintly in the distance, like wolves.

Cassie tensed.

Natalie laughed softly. "I doubt they'll find us here, Miss Brooke."

Cassie spun around to glare at Natalie, her light green eyes sparkling. "Well, it seems like you're wrong a lot, Ms...Er...Natalie!"

Natalie sped up, and caught up to Cassie, her eyes narrowed. "What's that supposed to mean, midget?"

Jade looked up, looking impatient. "Guys, shut up!"

Cassie and Natalie both shot a glare Jade's way, before Cassie remarked; "You were wrong about me. The first time you saw me I was exhausted and scared, and you said 'Wow Nate, you sure can pick 'em.' I'm stronger now, and I think I've proved it well enough."

I knew Natalie well enough to guess she had just raised an eyebrow. "Was that little speech of yours meant to me inspire me, short-ass?"

I could see Cassie's back tensing. Uh oh.

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Andrew Hayes's POV:

My police car prowled past Cathy's house, I was still searching for signs of her. God dangit, I thought. First I lose Cassie, now Cathy?! What kind of sick world is this....?

Earlier, Cathy's psychiatrist Melissa had called the station tearfully, reporting Cathy's absence. Since then the press and police had been combing the area, the police in search of evidence, and the press in search of more juicy details.

I did a U-turn, having decided to visit Mike, Cathy's boyfriend. I hadn't met him before, but from what I heard from Cathy, he was a 'real sweet bugger'. Cassie didn't seem to like him at all, but I supposed all teens reacted that way to their Mum's boyfriends.

I pulled in carefully, squeezing down the narrow driveway. Bottles littered the small deck out front, and rubbish bags were piled next to the door.

I got out, and knocked politely on the blue front door. "Anyone home?" I called.

No answer.

I pulled the door open, finding it unlocked.