"Cassie Patterson, age 17, was last seen at her local fair with friends after she stated she was going to grab a quick drink. She was wearing a blue romper and black sandals. If you have any-"
The television was cut off, followed by a faint laugh.
"Emily," she chirped, "you shouldn't be watching that. Instead, how about you help me in the kitchen? I could use your help."
Looking up at her through my lashes, my blood boiled as my heart raced in my chest. Inside, I was throwing a ragging fit, using the lamp to render her unconscious, and racing out the front door. But I knew I couldn't. She would have me pinned to the floor in an instant.
I gave a simple nodded, picking at my shirt sleeve. She smiled, turned, and walked out the room. Once she was a safe distance, I let out a breath I never realized I was holding.
"My name's Cassie, not Emily."
**
At her local fair, Cassie gets whisked away by a father and mother looking to repair their broken family. How long can she make it?
A criminal mastermind makes a bold move against a wealthy client to put himself in a position to retire in comfort. He has no idea what he's up against when a young widow, desperate to make ends meet, sets her eyes on earning the bounty set on his head.
***
Newly widowed housewife Melody Scott needs to earn some major cash, fast. When her bright and busy children learn that a priceless ruby bracelet has been stolen and a six-figure reward is being offered, they convince her to try to do what the police, museum security, and the best private investigators have failed to do. Working against them is a notorious thief who has met people from around the world, but who has never once encountered a woman like Melody Scott. When the sweet innocence of the Scott family clashes against criminal forces more dangerous than they ever imagined, Melody is all too aware that a mom's got to do what a mom's got to do to protect her family.
The Widow, Melody Scott is a 2021 Watty Award Winner!
Content Warning: This story does contain depictions of stalking behavior.