Chapter 4
Four
“I hope you’re kidding,” Erin said slowly. “I saw that episode of Castle too. I don’t think my editor would ever allow me to write about someone copying fictional serial killers. Too derivative.”
Kaely’s lack of response made Erin’s heart sink. This was real? Seriously? She heard Kaely take a deep breath.
“Actually, you’d be surprised how many times a killer uses a method he read in a novel,” Kaely said.
“Most psychopaths are too narcissistic to copy someone else exactly, but there have certainly been cases where the UNSUB used elements from a novel. They usually add their own twist because it makes them feel superior. But then of course, there are the killers who aren’t very imaginative and closely follow an MO they read about in a book.
Law enforcement tries hard to keep this knowledge quiet and away from the media.
They feel like it might give potential killers ideas. ”
“I think authors would want to know,” Erin mumbled. She sighed. “I’m sorry. I just can’t quite wrap my head around this.”
“I know. I’m sorry.”
“I understand why investigators want me to come there,” Erin said, “but why do you think I might need protection?”
“We don’t know for certain that you’re in danger,” Kaely said, “but when a serial killer makes it clear that he’s read your book and that he is patterning himself after you .
. . Well, you’re so alone out there. I mean, since you have to talk to the task force anyway, why not stay with us?
Besides, I really miss you, and I would love to spend time with you. ”
“What about Chester? I can’t leave him with anyone. He’s too insecure.”
“Of course, you can bring him. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Mr. Hoover likes dogs. Have you seen Chester around any cats?”
“Actually, there’s a gal who lives down the road from me who has a cat.
It keeps getting out and coming here. Chester loves her.
Still, I wish her owner would keep her indoors.
It’s too dangerous for her to be running around loose.
” Erin realized she was blithering. Kaely didn’t need to know about her neighbor’s cat roaming around outside.
She was shaken by what she’d just heard and was having a tough time concentrating.
“So, you’ll pack up and head here?” Kaely asked.
Erin looked around the cabin she’d grown to love.
She hated to leave, even for a little while, but if she could help the FBI find this killer, she had to try.
She really did miss Kaely, and she looked forward to meeting Noah.
Actually, working with the Behavioral Analysis Unit excited her.
Writing about it was one thing, but seeing it up close?
She wished it were under different circumstances, but maybe something good could come out of this bizarre situation.
Leaving home would be a challenge, but Chester would be with her, and she felt safe with Kaely. She was convinced she could do it.
“Give me today to pack,” she said. “I’ll head out tomorrow morning. I should get there in the late afternoon. Does that work for you? You’re sure you have room for me? I can find a hotel if it would be better.”
“Don’t be silly. We have a lovely guest room. Besides, I’d feel better keeping an eye on you, and Chester will be happier here rather than getting stuck in some crate at a hotel.”
“Okay, if you’re sure. Thanks, Kaely. I appreciate it. I’d like to hear more about the murders. The MOs. Should we do that now or . . .”
“Tomorrow,” Kaely said. “Let’s talk about it when you get here. I can’t wait to see you.”
“Me too. I’ll keep you updated on my progress.”
“Good.” Kaely hesitated. “Erin, please watch your six? As you leave Sanctuary and while you’re on the road? If you get any idea that you’re being followed, drive to the nearest police station, and let us know.”
Erin knew Kaely well enough to understand that she really was worried. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. “Have any of the other authors been threatened?”
“No, they haven’t. They’re understandably upset, but so far, there’s been no threat.”
“So, I’m the only author who has to go into hiding?” Although she really wanted to stay with Kaely, she was suddenly concerned about looking like a wimp.
“Erin . . .”
“Okay, okay. I’ll be there tomorrow. Frankly, I think this is just an elaborate ruse so you can spend some time with me.”
Kaely snorted. “Yeah, that’s me. I make up serial killers so my friend will come for a visit. I’m that desperate.”
Erin chuckled. “All right. I’d better get off the phone. I need to pack and let Adrian know I’m going to be gone.”
“How are things going with Sanctuary’s handsome police chief?”
“Things aren’t going anywhere,” Erin said. “We’re friends. Correction. We’re acquaintances. Nothing more.”
“You really are delusional, aren’t you?” Kaely said. “The way you two look at each other is almost embarrassing.”
“I think you’re delusional. Adrian Nightengale sees me as one of the people he’s sworn to protect. Nothing more. And Jake likes to play with Chester. That’s it. Seriously.” Even as she disputed Kaely’s assumption, she suspected she wasn’t being completely honest.
“Go pack, my friend,” Kaely said. Her previous playful tone now had a more serious edge. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“See you tomorrow.”
Erin started to hang up but stopped when Kaely added, “By the way, we have Mallomars in Virginia so you don’t need to bring a case. I’ll have some. I can’t sit by and watch you go through Mallomar withdrawal. Just too brutal.”
“You’re very, very funny. Good-bye.”
Erin disconnected the call and then looked over at Chester. “We have to travel again, boy. But you’ll like this trip a lot more than our expeditions to St. Louis. You’ll get to see Kaely.”
Chester’s ears perked up at Kaely’s name. He was very attached to her. Erin hoped he’d do okay with another car trip. At least this time she was going somewhere she really wanted to go. She sighed and got to her feet. “Let’s start packing, boy.”
Erin started toward the stairs but then stopped and went back to get her phone.
She stared at it a moment before clicking on Adrian’s name.
She might as well let him know she was leaving for a while.
Even though she wasn’t ready to admit it to anyone else, even Kaely, she was surprised to realize just how much she was going to miss him.