Liadan Brodie

Running Shadow

Chapters 1 - 4 can be found in the file section on my Yahoo group.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/liadanbrodie/

Chapter 5

Harmony rolled over in bed and opened her eyes. She’d never slept as well as she had the night before. Ever since she’d begun receiving threats, she barely slept four hours a night. Maybe she just felt safer somehow knowing Shadow was nearby watching her.

She slowly sat up and looked around the room. “Shadow? Are you here?” When she received no answer she sighed. Oh well, maybe he’ll come back later. She looked at the clock, nine o’clock, she knew she should get up and take a shower and straighten the apartment. Michael would be here sometime today and she wanted to make a good impression. After all, if what Shadow said was true, Michael could possibly soon be family.

She got out of bed and shivered as the cool air of the apartment hit her legs. She hurried into the kitchen and started coffee. As she walked past her office, she stepped inside and froze. Sitting on her desk was a bouquet of dead roses. She didn’t know what to do.

Running from the room she went to the front door and checked the alarm. She knew she’d set it the night before when Shadow told her to. So how was it that now the alarm was turned off? “Oh God.”

“What’s wrong Harmony?”

She spun around, fright making her clutch her chest. Shadow stood there, dressed as he’d been the night before, blue jeans, boots and no shirt. “Shadow, someone turned off the alarm. He’s been here. He left a bouquet of dead roses on my desk.”

Shadow’s muscles tensed and he looked around the room for other signs. “When will Michael be here?”

“I don’t know, he didn’t say.”

“Call him. Find out when he’ll arrive.”

Harmony walked over to a small table set against the wall and picked up the phone. Scrolling through the caller id, she found his number and pressed the connect button. A man answered the phone. “Michael?”

“No, this is Robert. May I ask who’s calling?”

“This is Harmony Edwards. I need to speak with Michael.”

“Ms. Edwards, he told me before he left this morning that our grandfather is with you. Is that true?”

If she weren’t so frightened, she’d have laughed. “Yes it’s true. Can you tell me when he left?”

“Around six this morning. He should be in Dallas by ten. Is everything all right?”

“Actually no it’s not. Shadow is impatient for him to be here.” She watched Shadow go from room to room looking for anything out of place. “Thank you Robert. I hope to meet you soon. Goodbye.”

She hung up the phone and went to her office. Shadow was standing beside her desk looking at the flowers. “What are you doing?”

He turned and looked her up and down. She only wore a t-shirt that barely hit her thighs. He had to get her dressed. “Go take a shower, Michael will be here soon. You can’t meet him at the door dressed like that.”

“Now wait one second mister. I can meet him dressed as I please. If I choose to meet him like this, then I will.”

“No, you will not.”

“Why not? You’re only a spirit. There’s nothing you can do to me, so why should I be scared by your ‘I’m the man and you will do what I say’ voice?”

Before she could blink, Shadow was in front of her. “You will get dressed before he arrives, Harmony. As for me not being able to do anything, you’re wrong there.”

He grabbed her arms and pulled him to her. “There are many things I can do and many things I will do to you.” His lips covered hers and he felt her stiffen in shock and then relax into the kiss. Gods, he’d been waiting to do this forever. The need to have her in his arms had almost driven him mad. The need to have her and claim her as his was even stronger. He knew he had to keep this kiss soft and not let it get out of control.

Harmony couldn’t believe it. She was kissing a spirit. The feel of his lips against hers sent her libido into overdrive. She wanted to melt into him and never stop kissing him. She moaned and put her arms around his neck as she opened her mouth to welcome him deeper. If he kissed this amazingly, what else could he do? Possibly even better.

Chapter 6

Shadow held Harmony close, pressed tightly against his body. He knew now as not the time to claim her, but he didn’t want to let her go either. He broke the kiss and stared at her. “We must stop. We need to get ready for Michael’s arrival.”

Harmony nodded but didn’t step away from him. She wanted to kiss him again. She wondered if he could do more than kiss. She could feel the rigid length of him against her belly. She pressed closer, causing him to inhale sharply and her own desire to turn up a notch. The knowledge that he wanted her had her body swelling in anticipation. “Shadow?”

He knew what she was asking. He knew if he took her now, she would be ready for him and would welcome him. He closed his eyes and stepped away. When he looked at her he saw the confusion in her eyes. “It’s not that I don’t want you as mine Harmony, but now is not the time. We must wait. But I promise you that soon, we will know each other as well as a man and woman can possibly know each other.”

“There’s something you aren’t telling me isn’t there? What are you hiding from me?”

He didn’t look at her. “Please change clothes, Michael is on his way up.”

Harmony slammed her bedroom door. “It would figure that the man who is supposed to be my mate likes to boss people around. Especially me it seems.” She slammed her closet door after taking out a pair of jeans. She yanked off her shirt and tossed it on her bed. Just as she was reaching for a clean shirt she felt Shadow behind her. Still upset with him for hiding things from her she spun around and too late remembered she was as naked as he from the waist up.

Shadow groaned aloud. Harmony was pushing him to the breaking point. He stepped towards her and somehow managed to stop himself from taking another step. “Please turn around and put a shirt on. Michael is at the door.”

She saw the desire burning in his eyes as he looked at her. If it weren’t for the fact that Michael was waiting, she’d have pushed her luck to see how much Shadow could withstand before he broke down and did more than kiss her.

“Do not think it Harmony. You don’t want to push me like that. I only have so much willpower left where you are concerned. Now dress so Michael and I can explain to you what must happen in order for me to return to the living.”

As he faded from sight, she heard the doorbell ring and quickly pulled on a shirt. She ran down the hall to the door and saw Shadow was waiting for her to open the door and allow Michael inside. As she opened the door her smile vanished from her face. The picture she’d seen on the Internet hadn’t done Michael justice. In fact, it didn’t even look like the man standing in front of her now.

Michael smiled slowly. “Hello Harmony, from the look on your face I see that it’s true. I am the spitting image of my grandfather.”

Chapter 7
“May I come in?”

Harmony hesitated but a moment. This man, Shadow’s grandson, looked exactly like him. How was it possible? “Sure. I’m sorry. I was just taken back by the resemblance. You do look just like him.”

Michael stepped in and shut the door. “Where is my grandfather?”

Harmony turned around and though Shadow had just been right behind her, he was no longer there. “Shadow? Where are you? Come back. Michael is here.”

Slowly, almost as if he were having trouble appearing, Shadow appeared. “I can’t stay long Harmony. Michael being here is hindering my ability to appear to you.” He looked at Michael and smiled. “It is good to see you. I’ve watched you grow into the fine man you are today. You have done the family proud.”

Michael swallowed, tears formed in his eyes. “Thank you grandfather. The family has never forgotten you or your sacrifice. It is an honor to be in your presence.” He bowed his head.

Shadow reached out and touched Michael’s head. “You do me honor by coming quickly. Take care of Harmony, she is the one.” His form shimmered. “I must go. Michael, I trust you to do what has to be done. Remember, I’ll always be with you and with Harmony.”

In the blink of an eye, Shadow was gone. “Shadow? Shadow where are you? Come back. Please. I need you.” Harmony’s cries echoed off the walls.

“He is with us. Have no fear. He will let no harm come to you.” Michael looked around and spotted the living room. “May we sit and talk Harmony?”

As much as she wanted Shadow there, she knew Michael was right. Shadow was there with them and always would be. “Yes. May I get you something to drink?”

“Coffee would be great.” He smiled and didn’t miss the desire that glowed in her eyes. For once, he was happy he was still single. He found himself extremely attracted to Harmony. She was beautiful, but more than that. Her soul was beautiful. He only hoped that she would be able to accept what had to be done. His grandfather’s wisdom must live on and he was the one to make sure that happened.

Harmony busied herself putting coffee in a carafe. She didn’t know how Michael liked his so she added sugar and cream to the tray. As she turned, she nearly spilled the tray on Michael who was standing behind her. “You scared me. Shadow does that to me as well. Is that a family trait?”

He laughed and shook his head. “I was just coming to tell you I take it black.”

Harmony returned the tray to the counter and took a deep breath. “I kissed your grandfather.” Why she blurted that, she had no idea.

Michael touched her shoulder. “Then that should make what has to be done easier. The Great Spirits would not have chosen you if you couldn’t handle it.”

She didn’t know what to say to that. Luckily, the phone rang at that moment. She looked at the caller ID and recognized the number. “Yes. This is Harmony.” She listened for a few seconds and paled at the news. “Yes, I understand. No, don’t worry about sending officers to my apartment. If you have some that could circle the block, that will be enough. I have someone staying with me.” She listened a bit longer. “All right. Thank you.” She hung up and turned to Michael. “That was the police. They think they have a tip but they aren’t sure this is the guy.”

“I’ll be here with you. I swear I’ll keep you safe.” He wanted to hold her close to him but knew now was not the time. She needed to know what was going to happen before he could do that.

Harmony wasn’t sure why she felt drawn to Michael. Maybe it was because he was Shadow’s twin. She felt she was cheating on Shadow, though nothing more than a kiss had been shared, because she was attracted to Michael. “I have every faith in you. I know you will keep me safe.”

They took their coffee to the living room and sat on the sofa. Michael sat beside Harmony. He didn’t want to be far from her. “Turn on the news.” For some reason Shadow was pressing him on this.

Harmony switched on the television and the first story on the news was about a homicide. Only this was no normal homicide. The news reporter was telling in great detail how the murder reflected one of her books. “Why is he doing this? Why is he copying my murders? I write what I feel. Not things that have happened. I never wanted this.”

“I know. I’ve read your books. They are wonderfully written. You have a knack for keeping your readers on edge. This man is a lunatic. He’s, for some reason, fixated on you. He wants to be your villain.” He took her hand in his. “Have you ever thought that maybe he wants you to write about him? Truly make him the bad guy?”

“You mean write about the terror he’s brought into my life? The things he’s done, like leaving dead roses on my desk? No. I’ve not thought about that. Even if I had, I wouldn’t write about it.”

“Maybe you should. Maybe that would bring him out. You know, somehow make him mess up and leave solid proof of his identity.”

“If I did this, I’d need someone with me all day every day. I’d need some sort of protection.”

“You have me, Harmony. I will not leave you.”

Chapter 8

She needed to get her mind off the murders and the murderer. The looks Michael had been giving her told her he was attracted to her. But could she be attracted to him without repercussions from Shadow? Would Shadow ever allow that? She had to find out.

“Michael, I have to be honest with you. Completely honest. I’m attracted to you. I don’t know if it’s because you look like Shadow or if there is something about you that draws me to you. But I don’t want you to get the wrong idea. I kissed Shadow because it was the right thing to do. I want him like I want no other.”

“I know you do. But there is more to me than you know. Give me a chance Harmony. Let me prove to you that I’m as much the man you need me to be as Shadow is. I may not be him, yet, but I’m well on my way.”

“What do you mean by that? You can never be Shadow. Shadow is his own person, you can’t be him…EVER!”

Michael shook his head. “There are some things I must tell you. You won’t like what I have to say but you must hear me out. Listen to my words, understand what has to happen.” He sighed and rubbed his forehead. “This isn’t easy for me Harmony. Not at all. I must give up all that I know to save my grandfather, my ancestor. He’s the reason I’ve never married, never had the children I’ve wanted so much. I’ve known since I was eighteen, what I must do and I’ve never once thought I’d back out.”

He took her hand in his. “After meeting you, I’m really tempted to just say no. But Shadow has knowledge that will be lost if I don’t carry through with my destiny.”

“I still don’t understand what you’re talking about. Shadow needs to come back and he will. I believe he will, even though I don’t know how he will accomplish that goal. I’m sure I’m a huge part of it, but you’re scaring me talking about how you will become Shadow.”

A knock at the door kept Michael from telling her everything. “Stay here Harm. I’ll see who it is.”

Michael walked to the door and looked through the peep hole. A man stood in the hallway with a box. He was in a delivery service uniform. He slowly opened the door.

“May I help you?”

The man looked startled for a brief moment and Michael took note of that. He also memorized the man.

“I have a package for Harmony Edwards.”

Michael’s gut feeling was to slam the door and lock it tight. Something about this man put him on high alert. “Who is the package from?”

“I don’t know sir. It doesn’t have a return address.”

“Then how the hell did your company send it? I know for a fact that you don’t send a package without a return address. Now where did you get the package?” It crossed Michael’s mind that this may very well be the killer. But the guy looked too normal, his eyes didn’t show any madness. He did notice the man kept looking over his shoulder. “Who gave you this package?”

The mans eyes went wide. “I don’t know who he was sir. He told me he’d kill me if I didn’t deliver this to Ms. Edwards. He threatened my child. Please, just take the package. I don’t want it. I’ve followed what’s going on and I don’t want any part of it.”

Michael grabbed the mans arm and pulled him inside. Slamming the door shut and locking it he called out. “Harmony, get that detective over here now. We have someone who has seen the killer.”

*****
Once the detective arrived and questioned the delivery man, they knew they were still no closer to figuring out who was behind the murders. The man had seen nothing. The killer had been hidden by shadows. But at least they now knew it was a man.

Harmony didn’t have a clue who it could be. No one she’d ever known could be this ruthless. Sure she’d had fan mail from men telling her how wonderful she was and they’d like to meet her. But she didn’t honestly think she’d ever known this person. It boggled her mind how someone could get so involved in something that they finally snapped. That was what had her re-thinking her career. If this was going to happen, if people were going to be killed, she needed to stop writing.

“Don’t think that Harmony. You need to write. It is your gift.”

She spun around in her chair. “Shadow?”

He smiled. “I’m here Harmony. I’ll always be here for you. Listen to Michael and do as he requests and you and I shall be together soon. I’ll never let anyone harm you. You are mine Harmony Edwards. Do not forget that.”

With that he was gone. Harmony placed her head in her hands and cried. She wanted Shadow. She needed him. The thought came out of nowhere. She realized that she truly needed Shadow. She would heed his words. If she had to cut the head off a chicken in a sacrificial rite, she’d do whatever it took to get him by her side.

Chapter 9

It had been a week and she still didn’t know what was in the package. The detective had told them he’d be in contact, but they’d heard nothing so far. She was on pins and needles. Michael constantly being attached to her hip only added to her frustration. He had yet to tell her what it would take to get Shadow into the real world.

She sat in front of her computer, trying to work on her next novel, when the phone rang. “Hello?”

“This is Detective Wills, do you know someone named Lisa Nells?”

“Of course I do. We went to high school together. We’ve kept in contact over the years. Why?”

“She’s gone missing. Her husband hasn’t seen her in over a week.” The silence stretched out.

“What is it detective? What aren’t you telling me?”

“Who do you know or did know in the past, that knew about your connection with Mrs. Nells?”

Harmony thought about it and went over the list of people who knew about Lisa. One name kept popping up. One name popped up. “Wayne Strothsberg.” She sighed. “I’d completely forgotten about him. I dated him for two years in college. Towards the end he started acting really creepy. Telling me who I could and could not see. Where I could and could not go. When he asked me to marry him, I turned him down. He told me I’d pay for my rejection of him and he’d make sure I suffered.”

“Ms. Edwards, I hate to tell you this, but the package contained the dress Lisa was wearing the last time her husband saw her. It was covered in blood. We’re looking for the body now.” He sighed. “I wish you’d remembered this Strothsberg fellow sooner. But at least now we have something to go on. I’ll let you know what we find.”

Michael stood in the doorway watching her. “What did he say?”

Harmony got up and walked over to him. “The package contained the dress of one of my friends. Her husband hasn’t seen her in over a week. The dress was covered in blood and the detective said they are looking for the body now.” She started crying. “Lisa has a two year old son and a six month old baby daughter. Oh God! What have I done to the people I care about? I’ve sentenced them to death at the hands of a deranged madman.”

Michael put his arms around her and pulled her close. “Are you ready to hear the rest of what it will take to bring Shadow over? He can help stop the murderer.”

She nodded. “I’m ready. This has to stop. I can’t write anything for the fear that someone else is going to die.”

Michael pulled her into the living room and made her sit on the couch as he paced in front of her. This wasn’t easy for him. His whole life he’d waited for this moment. He’d thought he could get through it fine. But he wanted Harmony for his own. He wanted children with her. How could he give his life over to his grandfather knowing how he felt about her? Simple answer, he couldn’t. Not without a fight.

The past week had been hell on him. He’d never understood the concept of love at first sight but with Harmony, that was what he felt. He was in love with her. With every fiber of his being he wanted to take care of her, make her happy. Only he couldn’t do that. Not with his ancestor wanting to take over.

He turned towards Harmony and stared over her head. Shadow stood there, looking every bit pissed off. “Grandfather forgive me. I know what I must do, but I can’t. I want her for myself.”

Shadow nodded. “Then we will only do what is necessary. My knowledge will pass to you and I will move on. She is yours. Keep her safe, protect her always.” He smiled. “Name your first son after me.”

Harmony had turned but saw nothing. “Who are you talking to? Shadow isn’t there.”

Michael smiled. “He was. He only let me see him. I know what I must do but I need to know something.”

“What? You know you can ask me anything.”

“How do you feel about me Harmony? Not me resembling Shadow, but me as Michael.”

She swallowed. For the past week she’d thought about nothing but getting to know Michael better. His likes and dislikes. There had been nights they sat up till two talking and laughing. Just getting to know one another. She realized now that the whole week had passed without her yearning for Shadow. She stood and walked up to him. “Michael, I haven’t thought about Shadow for a week. Does that answer your question?”

His breath rushed out of his lungs. “More than you know.” He claimed her mouth with his. Pulling her closer to his body. He yearned for her. He wanted her beneath him. He wanted to see her belly swelling with his child. But most of all, he wanted her to love him.

Harmony melted against Michael. She realized now that she wanted him by her side. Shadow had brought her a man to love, a man all her own. But what did that mean for Shadow? Would he still be able to cross over? Her feelings for Shadow were different than her feelings for Michael. Michael had held her hand when she was worried. He had cheered her up and made her laugh. Michael had sat with her and watched old black and white films and not complained. She finally admitted to herself that she wanted him with all her being.

Michael pressed against her lips with his tongue. Gaining entrance, his tongue danced with hers. He pulled back. “Unless you want this to go further, stop me now Harmony. I mean to have you as my own.”

She smiled. “If that means you love me, then I’m yours.”

Michael groaned and scooped her into his arms. Heading for the bedroom he once again gave her a chance to back out. “If you want to stop tell me now. Once we make love, I’ll have Shadow’s knowledge and his spirit will move on to the next world.”

“I wish nothing but peace for him. He deserves it. I hope he finds his wife and shares eternity with her. He wasn’t for me after all. He was only supposed to bring you to me.” She grabbed his chin towards her. “I realized just a short time ago that I fell in love with you the moment we met. I’m yours Michael. Now and forever.”

Chapter 10

Michael couldn’t believe this was happening. The vision he’d had years earlier had specifically shown him that Running Shadow would take over his body. He’d never once been shown an alternative. Now he was faced with a tough decision. Should he go through with this or should he give himself over to Shadow. As he entered Harmony’s bedroom, Shadow stood by the window.

“Take her Michael. She is yours to watch over now. I give you my blessing and the blessings of my forefathers. I will be at peace. Please let Harmony know I will be with my wife once again. I feel her waiting for me even now. You will have many sons and a few daughters.” He laughed. “You’ll need all your wisdom and mine to handle your daughters. Good luck and may the Gods bless you as well.”

He looked down at Harmony, the woman he loved. He never thought this would be his fate. “Shadow says to tell you that his wife is waiting for him. You are mine to watch over now. I swear to you Harmony, I will always protect you and I’ll always love you. I will give you many strong sons and a few daughters.”

She slapped his chest. “You better give me enough daughters to overwhelm your sons.”

“I’ll do my best by you Harmony. You are mine as I am yours.” He placed her gently on the bed. “In order to gain the knowledge of Running Shadow, what has to be done will be quick. I apologize for that. If it were up to me, I’d take it nice and slow.” The grin that spread across his face was filled with promise. “Before this night is over, you will know both hard and fast and nice and slow. Before we go any further though, I need to begin the ritual. Are you ready?”

“I’m ready Michael. Whatever you need me to do, I’m ready.”

He smiled. “The only thing I need you to do is get rid of your clothing. I need you naked.” He said this as he began stripping off his own clothing. “Now Harmony. It won’t be long before I’ll need to complete the ritual.”

“What does completing the ritual consist of?”

He looked her in the eyes, stared as though he were seeing into her soul. “I give you my seed. I give you my first son.”

Harmony stood and began removing her clothing. She felt no fear or uncertainty. She knew this was the right thing to do. “I hope you find happiness again Shadow. I’ve found mine.” She spoke the words softly, yet Michael heard them and smiled at her. She knew then she was doing the right thing.

She laid on the bed as Michael raised his arms and began chanting in a language she’d never heard before. She guessed he was calling to his ancestors and his gods. Whatever he was doing had a strange effect on her. It felt as though the room were spinning. She was light-headed and as she looked at Michael, she saw lights surrounding his body. He was beautiful and she knew at that moment, he was hers forever.

Michael completed the chant and was more than ready to finish what he’d just started. The transfer of knowledge would be completed once he physically joined with Harmony. He knelt on the bed and crawled towards her. “We must finish this. Open for me Harmony. I need you more than you know.”

As if unseen hands had control of her body, her legs parted. She knew from the look in his eyes, Michael saw her glistening folds. She was ready for him. As he positioned himself, she held her breath. Waiting, wanting him to be inside her. She had the strangest feeling that he would give her a son this night.

Michael entered her slowly. This was what he’d wanted for the past week. She felt so good around him. He knew he wouldn’t last long this first time. Sure enough, he began pounding into her tight canal. He chanted the words that would complete the transfer of knowledge. Though he felt bad for Shadow, he knew without a doubt Harmony was his.

Harmony met him thrust for thrust. She’d never felt anything more incredible. Michael was amazing. He was bringing her to orgasm quicker than any other lover she’d had. She felt the orgasm building in her and knew a few seconds more and she’d reach her peak. “Michael. Oh Gods, Michael.”

Michael felt her inner walls start milking him. He couldn’t hold back. He grabbed her hips and plunged deep. He exploded, coating her womb with his seed. He knew deep down he’d given her the son he’d promised. He suddenly felt the knowledge of Running Shadow fill his mind and his soul. He caught glimpses of the life Shadow had led. He saw Shadow performing rituals and burials. All of the knowledge filled his mind.

Shadow’s voice whispered to him. “Your sons and daughters will have this knowledge as well. Keep them safe. They will be the new generation of our people.”

Chapter 11

Harmony rolled over and reached for Michael. His side of the bed was empty and cold. She had the thought that maybe he’d left her in the night when the door opened and he walked in. “Are you okay?”

He nodded. “I’m fine. I have Shadow’s knowledge. But I felt the need to provide you and my son with food.”

Harmony placed her hand on her stomach. “He’ll be fine for now. He’s probably as tired as his mother is.” She laughed at the look on Michael’s face. “Don’t worry so much. I’m only teasing.”

Michael brought the tray over and set it on the nightstand. He then placed his hand over her belly and smiled. “He’ll be a strong man. He’ll protect what is his and he’ll be a Shaman as well.” He looked at Harmony, his eyes piercing her soul. “We’ll live on the reservation. He’ll have many family members to help him on his way. But for now, we’ll live here. At least until the killer is caught.”

Harmony reached up and tugged on the ends of his hair. “I hate to be a spoil sport, but will our children be shunned because they will be born outside of marriage?”

His laughter had her teal eyes flashing fire. “Calm down my lovely Harmony. You should just come out and ask if I am willing to marry you. The answer is yes, we will be married before our own Running Shadow arrives.” He leaned over and kissed her stomach.

His long hair felt like silk gliding across her skin. The heat began to grow within her. She wiggled her hips as Michael’s hand slid up her thigh. “Food can wait. It’s you I need now.” Her voice was husky and filled with her need.

Michael’s brown eyes flashed with desire, lust and love as he rose above her. He was confused when she shook her head.

“I’m on top this time.” She smiled as she felt him lengthen and thicken against her belly. “Please Michael. Let me love you this time.”
*****
Harmony snuggled closer to Michael’s warmth. He groaned and she smiled. “Wake up.” She poked his stomach. “Come on Michael, I’m hungry now. Let’s go get something to eat.”

He grabbed her hand and growled. “Keep poking me like that and I’ll put you over my knees and spank your little white butt.” He yawned and stretched. “All right. But I think maybe we should shower first.” He got out of bed and walked across the room, feeling her eyes on him every step he took. “You keep looking at me like that and I’m getting back in bed with you, food be damned.”

Harmony gave him her best pout. “But Michael, I’m hungry.” Her stomach chose that moment to rumble. “So is our son.”

“Tell you what. You stay in bed, just as you are, I’ll shower and go get us something to eat. You make up your mind while I shower. But make sure it’s somewhere close. I don’t want to leave you alone for too long.”

She told him the name of a deli less than a block from the apartment. He kissed her and though she wanted him to stay, she was hungry. After he left, she took a shower and crawled back in bed. She had closed her eyes for only a moment when she heard the click of the lock on the front door turning. Slipping out of bed, she didn’t bother to put on a shirt or a robe. It’s not like Michael hadn’t already seen everything. She heard him turn off the alarm as she rounded the corner.

Her footsteps didn’t go unnoticed. She was frozen in place. How could he? It wasn’t possible. The man in her apartment, was none other than Wayne Strothsberg.

“Well, well, well. Looks like your Indian friend went away and left you all alone and obviously wanting.” He laughed as she began to back down the hallway. “Oh yes, Harmony. I’m back and I’m right where I belong.”

The phone rang grabbing both of their attentions. Harmony made no move to answer the phone but let the machine pick up. ‘Honey, they just ran out of the turkey you like so much. Karl says he’ll have some more tomorrow and would you like the other sandwich you get. Harm honey, pick up the phone.’ She knew not answering was going to have Michael running back to the apartment, probably with police in tow. ‘Harmony, I’m coming home.’
Wayne laughed. “So this is home to him now huh? I don’t think so. This is supposed to be my home. You are supposed to be mine.” He took another step towards Harmony. “You will be mine before he gets here. He’ll never make it back in time to stop me from finishing what I’ve started.”

“What are you talking about Wayne? You knew I’d never marry you. I’d told you to stop treating me like a child, but you didn’t. You couldn’t. You had to be controlling my every step and knowing where I was every minute of the day. I couldn’t live like that.”

Wayne had her backed against the wall. “This is how I like you Harm darling. Up against the wall with no where to run and no one to save you.” He grabbed her arms and dragged her into the kitchen.

Obviously he’d been here for a while. There was rope on the table and duct tape and a wicked looking butterfly knife. “What are you going to do to me?” She asked, as he pushed her into a chair.

“Why darling? Don’t you know? There’s only one death scene left from your books that I haven’t brought to life. I saved that one for you.” He grabbed the rope and tied her to the chair, then used the duct tape to cover her mouth. “I can see by the look in your eyes you know exactly what I’m referring to.” He clapped his hands. “That is one of the outright best death scenes you’ve ever written. I knew I would have to make it your last. Your grand finale.”

She struggled against the ropes but couldn’t break her wrists and legs free. She knew he meant to kill her and he was going to draw this out just like the killer in her book. She closed her eyes and prayed for someone to save her. She’d even be happy with her neighbor across the hall to break down the door. But she knew that wasn’t going to happen.

“Open your eyes. I want you to see what I’m going to do to you. I want you to have the visual as well as the pain.” He brought the knife to the top of her thigh and sliced deep into her flesh.

Harmony screamed before the blackness claimed her.

Chapter 12

Michael dialed the detective Wills’ number. He had to get to Harmony. He had a gut feeling that something was wrong. Had the killer gotten to her at last? He ran faster, his hair flying out behind him like a cloud. He breathed a sigh of relief when Wills answered his phone.

“This is Wills, how can I help you?”

“Detective, this is Michael Running Elk, Harmony’s fiancée. I have reason to believe the killer is in her apartment. She’s alone.”

“How do you know this? How do you know she’s alone with the killer?”

Michael raced by a couple pushing a stroller. “I left her not even an hour ago. If she were alone, she’d answer the phone. I need you and your men to get to the apartment now. She’s pregnant with our son. I won’t have either of them die.”

“Do not enter the apartment until we get there. This man is dangerous. He could kill her just for you trying to play the hero and storming the apartment. Do you understand?”

If Harmony or my son die, I will hold you personally responsible. Is that understood?”

“I have men stationed outside the building. They’ll meet you at the door. Dispatch is telling them to expect you. I’ll be there in less than five minutes.”

Michael reached the apartment just as the officers were getting out of their cruisers. He tried to reach the door but they held him back.

“No sir. You can’t go up yet. The detective told us to keep you here. When we go up, you can follow as long as you promise not to interfere.”

“By the time you assholes get up there, my future wife and son might be dead. How will you be able to look at yourselves in the mirror every morning if they die?”
Detective Wills brought his cruiser to a screeching halt and was out of the car in seconds. “All right folks. We know we have a killer upstairs. We need to stay focused and calm. I need three of you to take the left stairs and three on the right. The rest of you and you Michael, follow me.” He paused by Michael and touched his shoulder. “We’ll save her and your son, I promise.”

*****

Harmony came to and saw the blood on her thighs. She had to do something to stop him. She wouldn’t let him harm her unborn child. She started to struggle against her bonds. She didn’t like the way Wayne was watching her.

“Go ahead darling. Try and get free. The second you do, I’ll end it for you. Just think, you won’t have to watch as those you love die anymore. It’s a shame really. You and I were made for each other. We could have been great together but you had to go and ruin it.” He walked around her chair. “You destroyed my life when you left me. All I wanted was to build a life with you and have a family. But you, Miss High and Mighty author, didn’t think we were right together.” He laughed. “How wrong you were.”

Harmony heard footsteps coming down the hall outside her door. If only she could call out for help. Maybe she would be saved. Wayne heard the footfalls as well.

“Sounds like we have company. Perhaps it’s time I leave.” He raised the knife to her throat. “This is going to be perfect. Knowing that your lover will find you with your throat sliced open will be my greatest moment. The pain it will cause him will be a fuel for my fire.”

Harmony saw movement from the corner of her eye. There was no one else in the apartment but her and Wayne. Who could have gotten inside without them knowing? Suddenly, she felt a tingling sensation in her limbs. Shadow. He’d come back.

Shadow stood in the corner behind Wayne. He knew Harmony had seen him. He’d wanted her to know she wasn’t alone. For Michael, he had to save her. He had to save his future grandchild. He knew a part of his soul would be given to Michael and Harmony’s son. That was what had brought him to her rescue.
Wayne turned and looked behind him. He froze. “How did you get in here? Who are you?”

Shadow smiled. “I’m the one who will end your life.”

As Harmony continued to struggle, Wayne pressed the blade harder against her throat, drawing blood. “You think you can get to me before I slit her throat? I don’t think so. She deserves what she gets. I deserve my revenge. I’ll kill her and then I’ll kill you.”

“I do not think so Wayne. You see, there’s this thing about me. I’m already dead.”

Chapter 13

Wayne stood up and moved the knife away from Harmony’s throat. “I’ll kill you first and prove to you that you aren’t dead.”

Shadow spread his legs and motioned with his fingers. “Bring it on.” He winked at Harmony. “I love the things they say in movies.”

Wayne ran at Shadow. The knife held out in front of him to stab Shadow. “You will die and then I’ll kill her. She left me with nothing.”

“You must have a suicidal dream. I’m her protector and have been for years.” Shadow didn’t move as the knife went through him. He laughed at Wayne’s expression. “Told you. I’m already dead. But I can do this.” He kicked Wayne’s knee. As Wayne went down, Shadow grabbed his hair and yanked his head back. “You think you can defeat me? I fought against the white man and won all but one of my battles with them. I have the scalps to prove it. They threatened my family and now you do as well. My family is off limits to the likes of you and I will protect them always.”

Harmony saw Wayne struggle to swallow. What was Shadow going to do? Would he kill him?

Shadow looked at her. “If you don’t wish him dead, I won’t kill him. But he has threatened those close to me. Those I love.” He knew she saw the regret in his eyes that he wasn’t the one she’d chosen. He loved her. “Tell me now Harmony. Do I let him live and face the so-called justice of today? Or do I take his life with the justice that I knew when I was alive? It’s your decision.”

Harmony broadcast her thoughts to Shadow. “Leave him live. He will be tried and found guilty. I promise. No court today will let him freely roam the streets.”

“As you request, so I will agree. But know this, if he threatens me or mine again, there will be no mercy given. I will take his life to keep you safe.”

Shadow used the duct tape to bind Wayne. When he was finished, he freed Harmony from the chair. “Go get dressed. No one but Michael should see you unclothed.”
“Will you stay?”

He shook his head. “I cannot. I must go. When you are in need of me, I will be there for you.” He pressed his palm against her cheek. “I love you Harmony and always will. But Michael is the man for you. If you need me, you have only to call my name and I will be beside you. Take care of Michael and you son. I will watch over all of you, always.”

Harmony blinked and Shadow was gone. She got up and was halfway down the hall when the door burst open. She ran to the bedroom and closed the door. Her legs ached where Wayne had cut her. She grabbed the first shirt she saw and slipped it over her head. It smelled like Michael. It was his shirt. She slipped on jogging pants and as she reached for the doorknob, the door swung open and she was suddenly in Michael’s arms.

“Oh gods Harm. I was scared to death. Are you okay? How did you get free? I’m assuming you were tied to the chair.”

She leaned back in the circle of his arms and then went on tiptoes to press a kiss to his mouth. “Shadow. He saved me.”

Michael smiled and looked up. “Thank you. I swear I will keep her safe always.”

Epilogue

Harmony sat in the rocking chair and cradled Running Shadow close. He was hungry as usual for this time of day. She smiled as she bared her breast to let him feed. She looked up and saw Michael standing in the doorway.

“Detective Wills called. He said the jury deliberated for an hour before coming back with a verdict.”

She tensed causing Shadow to lose his suction on her nipple. She positioned him so he could continue his feeding. “What was the verdict?”

“He got life. He won’t go free again. You’re safe.” He left the doorway and knelt in front of her. As he stroked his tiny son’s hair he smiled. “Both of you are safe.”

Tears filled her eyes. “Michael, I never thought I could be this happy again. Thank you. Thank you for giving me all that you have and all that you are.” She looked at their son. “Thank you for Shadow. He will be a great man.”

“I love you Harmony. Now and always.”

The love in her heart burst forth. She’d never grow tired of hearing him say that. “I love you too Michael. What do you say we spend the day together when Shadow is done feeding?”

“I like the way you think.”

Harmony smiled. Little did he know that he would be a father for the second time in less than seven months. This was how life was supposed to be. Filled with happiness, joy and love. She figured that sometimes the Fates did smile on people.