Staring at a photo of three girls taken 11-years ago, a dark haired beauty mumbles “I miss you”. Then throwing the memory aside, she leans forward in the black leather chair, pulls herself closer to the desk, and she rests her head gently down on her arms. Her face shows hours of personal abuse, with swollen, red, shallow blue eyes, and only two single lines left to reveal her natural skin tone. Standing directly in front of a desk, she digs in one pocket then another until an expression of shock takes over and she falls back into the comfort of the leather cushion, but immediately slams her head down onto the desk.

Looking down at the floor under her, she sees a rustic object glimmering. Jerking anxiously out of her comfort, she tumbles on to cold-hard cement floor, scoops up a key, and turns wildly around toward the large murky oak desk, whose bellowing authority now has lost it intimidation. With a shaking sweaty, bloodied-hand she inserts the key into the lock’s notch, where large gashes around it shows her failed previous attempts to open it with a stainless-steel monogrammed letter opener. With the twist of the key, the secret drawer that she has been waiting for breaks free, and she reaches inside releasing a plastic flap which gapes part way open. The sense of wasted time hanging over vanishes, as she is finally rewarded, when the drawer pops open revealing jewelry, stocks, and the most importantly, some money.

Early that evening staring into space lost in his own remembrance of happier times, a blonde haired gentleman, sits drinking brandy and smoking a cigarette.

“Mr. Drake, I’m leaving for the evening,” comes over the desk intercom.

“Okay... Hey, is Nathaniel still here?” he inquires.

“Yes, Sir.” his secretary responds.

“Well, have a good night, Georgina and drive safely,” he answers.

“Same to you, Sir,” she replied.

As he walks to the bar he hears a voice behind him, “Good Simon, you’re still here.”

Turning around Simon greets his business partner, “Nathaniel, what can I do for you?” as he walks back to his desk and sits down.

“Do you mind?” Nathaniel asks pointing to the bar.

“Sure, Nathaniel, what do you want?” Simon, somewhat frustrated, blurts out.

Slowly pouring himself a glass of brandy, Nathaniel saunters over to sit down across from Simon and says, “Aren’t you tired of fighting over his company yet?” as he lights a cigarette.

“Nathaniel, you’re the one that won’t budge on what you want.” Simon replies as he rises and walks over to the bar.

Then he adds as he replaces the crystal cork back in the brandy bottle. “Your decision-making the last several years, has lost this company millions of dollars”.

“I understand that you want to push me out, but we started this company together and I’m not just going to walk away,” Nathaniel responds then stands up and walks around toward a chair next to Simon.

“Look, we aren’t friends anymore, that’s no secret...” he concluded sitting down.

Simon shakes his head and touches Nathaniel on the shoulder as he speaks, “Nathaniel, I just don’t trust your business decision anymore. I think it would be best if you agree to give up your executive position, when it comes to ’Watson Publications’.

“You’d drop the lawsuit, then?” Nathaniel smugly smiling asks.

“Yes, I... would.” Simon replies leaning back in his chair.

“This battle has gotten completely out of control.” Simon adds.

“You sound like my son, Nicolas.“ Nathaniel sneers.

“Hey, how is my godson doing these days?“ Simon asks.

“I swear he’s becoming more like you Simon, everyday...” Nathaniel says shrilly.

“Well, he’s a great young man. He’ll be a great leader here, I have no doubt.“ Simon adds, then after they both seem lost in their own thoughts about what to say next, he goes on to say, “Nathan, really, can’t we work this out?”

Taking a moment more, Nathaniel finally says, “So basically, you asking me to become a silent partner,” he chuckles bitterly, then stands up and moves toward the office door, “I’m never going to walk away from this business, Simon, never. If I do finally go, then you can deal with my son,” he says walking out of the room, and shutting the door behind him decisively.

“That I look forward to...” Simon mutters silently to himself.

The streets of downtown Tulsa were vacant except for several back alleys cluttered with the residents of the night, the drug users and their dealers. Parking her silver BMW Alpina Roadster in front of a house ablaze up with color, Sydney crosses the road, then hears a dog barking that begins an uncontrollable growl as she runs unswervingly across its path. Her yellow jacket catches a reflection from a passing car ahead, prompting her to dart behind an old unpainted chipped fence. Climbing over a large rolled up carpet wrapped in plastic and soaked from the vigorous thunderstorm earlier, she notices up ahead a single light post flickering, barely enough light for her to map out any clear course. A sharp sheet of smoke dances across the brisk night air as she looks down at her stainless steel watch checking the time when a robust figure steps out onto the street.

“Do you have the money Sydney? All of it?” he rumbles with a deep bass growl.

“I told you I would get it you should have more faith in people, Camden.” she replies.

“The only reasons I put up with your shit, is one; we go to the same school and two; cause I know your good for it.” he snaps, then roars “Money, now!”

“Here, that’s everything.” she barks back, presenting him with a white envelope.

“But I also need to get hundred dollars worth more,” she adds as she leans against the building behind her, pulls out a cigarette, lights it, then reaches in her pocket to hand him hundred dollars in cash. He does, and the deal is done.

Walking dangerously down the tracks after scoring, Sydney sees three girls off in the distance laughing and talking, which takes her instantly back to a time of happiness with Kaci and Natalie. She deadens these thoughts by lighting up a third joint. Her best friends, Kaci and Natalie, haven’t been communicating with her for over a month now. Ever since she and Kaci went to mall one afternoon and this young man named Adam walked up to them and started a conversation with Kaci. Since that encounter Sydney felt she was no longer a part of Kaci’s life. Natalie, who just came back from Paris, was now in New York on a modeling job.

Reaching into her pocket, convincing herself to give Kaci one last chance, she pulls out her orange faced cell phone and calls her best friend. But when she receives her voicemail again, she becomes livid and throws her phone into the tall grass behind her. Just a cross the way were several steel boxes, walking towards them she stops, turns and runs into the tall wet grass to retrieve her phone. Ice, probably wouldn’t of felt as uncomfortable as these boxes had she chosen to sit on it, nevertheless, she sits, pulls out a flask and begins drinking.

Smashed several hours later she finds herself wandering along the tracks again, and shivering and soaked from the continuous light nighttime showers. Considering the grunginess of the area, there were a lot of other people around she thought, some working the railroad and others just wandering about. Nauseated by a gripping headache and wanting to get out of the cold cutting air, she ran into a abandoned warehouse and passed out. Sleeping on weeds and grass that have grown through the cracks in the floor, Sydney is suddenly awaken by a young prostitute, barely in her teens, who offers her a cigarette and a drink of her cheap liquor. Sydney shakes herself awake, leaps up, covered in filth, grabs her cigarettes lying near by, and runs out of the warehouse.

“Is it being taken care of?” a fair-haired gentleman says into an intercom.

“Yes, Sir it is,” a male voice answers from the speaker.

“Good, we can’t continue with success unless this problem is eliminated, nothing can get in the way of this,” he says as he takes an ample slip of brandy.

“How do you want me to handle this, Sir?” the voice over the intercom asks.

“I don’t give a fuck how this is achieved - I just want it done!” he blares back at the box, slamming his fist on the desk in front of him.

Then a click comes over the phone as he says, “finish what was started - finish it today!”

Then he lifts the speakerphone and heaves it across the desk. He goes to his office bar, fills his glass again with brandy, replaces the phone on his desk, and walks to the window where he inhales his drink as he stands looking out at the Tulsa skyline.

Anxious over this exchange the other man hangs up the phone and continues to clean his Raven. Then it rings again. “Hello?”

On the other end of the line a dark haired man is standing in large room in a yellow shirt and khakis, smoking a pipe. Glancing over numerous black and white photos he threatens with, “He’s tired of waiting! Next time if it isn’t taking care of when we meet, it won’t just be your body that will remember me, it’ll be your family - remembering you!” then adds, “Am I making myself clear?“ as he heaves his phone across the room, screaming madly at it “’M I clear?”

The darkness of the night chilled every single bone in Sydney’s petite body. While heading back to her car parked several blocks away, Sydney stopped, and stood silent quivering in the night upon viewing a confrontation between two young men, both dressed in dark clothing, standing just outside of the halo of the light up ahead. Unable to hear a word they were saying she did notice several exchanges between them. The taller of the two appeared extremely nervous, continuous looking around, and he jerked at every noise that occurred. Just as the conversation started to be clear, she thought that one of them looked a little familiar. Then a loud blast ricocheted throughout the air. Startled, Sydney, jumped back with sheer terror, and unconsciously began screaming as she found herself directly in the getaway path of the killer. As the sudden terror trap that held her let go frozen in place, she rushed off into the night. Glancing at the body still moving on the ground, the shooter strikes it, then shoots it several more times before racing after her frightened shadow in the night. Dodging into an alley breathing heavily, her breath camouflaged by the steam of the near by factory, Sydney, stands motionless. The killer, gulping lungs full of air, enters the alley and painstakingly looks in every direction as he searches for Sydney. Within steps of reaching her, he begins throwing boxes and trash madly about nosily. In just a few more steps she realized he would be upon her.

“You can’t be back here, this is private property you’ll have to leave now,” says a local merchant as he steps out of the blackness of the night from his shop‘s backdoor.

At his appearance the killer moved abruptly to keep his identity unknown and he takes off down the alley running.

Peering around the large trashcan hiding her presence, Sydney knocks it to the ground, “Who there’s?” the shopkeeper barked at the crash.

Nervously standing, sweating and shaken’ she stands in the light and says, “it’s just me and thank you.”

“For what?” he asked.

“For scary him off” Sydney replies. Then turning back towards the direction she just came from, she continues, “There’s a man...” but as she turns around she sees her savior has vanished as suddenly as he appeared.

After, watching them from off in distance the killer now runs down another alley and circles back around. Without any warning a door just a few feet ahead of her opens, filling the empty alley suddenly with people, so Sydney plunges into that crowd and disappears. However, she is unaware in her escape that she has left her journal behind, lying covered by the trash bin. Another set of attentive eyes from one who lingered from the crowd in the alley catches sight of it, and reaches down to grab it.

Then standing back up, opens it, sees her name folds it in half, and secures it inside his coat.

“Do you know who that is?” the killer asked as he walks toward this man.

“Did you hear me?” raising his voice.

Standing next to him but off to one side so he is out of sight, reaches into his coat and presents the killer with her journal.

“I don’t think she’ll be any help, man. She’s been wandering around down here for hours.” Stepping into the light, the strangers’ cigarette smoke dances across the fog and reveals Sydney’s young drug dealer from earlier.

Filled with chatter, laughter and several teenagers on their cell phones, an attractive brunette, with her hair pulled up into a ponytail is talking with two young men when her attention is directed across the hallway.

“Where you go last night? I came by your house looking for you.” Kaci asked as she walked up behind Sydney, in between fourth and fifth period.

Dropping her books, she snaps “damn, what’s wrong with you?” slamming her locker closed she roars “Jesus!“ walking away without an answer.

“Hey, Sydney, wait, what the hell is wrong with you?” Kaci questions.

“I was out of town, but I guess you forgot that," she angrily says. “Hey, where’s Adam? What is he busy or something? You haven’t been concerned with me in weeks, why now, are you bored?” she exclaims.

“Fuck it, forget it,” Kaci snapped back.

Yelling at Kaci as though she was on the other side of the room; now in her face Sydney growls, “Kaci do what you do best, just walk away,” being irrational.

“Sydney, what the fuck,” grabbing her arm as she starts to take off, “is wrong with you?” Kaci yelled back.

Ripping her arm out of Kaci “nothing just leave me the fuck alone” she says as she shoves pass her and through the school doors. Frighten by her re-action she follows Sydney through the doors, but then stops and steps back in. She watches her best friend through a window throw her backpack down and sit down at a nearby bench, reach into the front pocket looking for something, pull out a cigarette and then lights it. It is at that moment, Kaci suddenly begins to notice her friend show an emotion she rarely ever shows - fear.

“There’s no smoking on campus” a woman in her mid-forties says. Shocked by who the student is, she asks “Miss Drake? Is that you? Is something wrong?”

“I don’t feel like talking, just leave me the hell alone.“ Sydney snapped.

Looking at her she continues “seriously, didn’t you hear me, I’m not in the mood to talk to anyone.”

“Sydney, there’s no smoking on the grounds. You know that,” she says sturdily.

As Sydney stands up, she flicks her cigarette at the teacher’s feet and walks away.

“Where do you think your going?” the teacher asks putting out the cigarette with her foot.

“Home! If it’s any of your fucking business,” she says without turning around.

“Miss Drake, stop. Sydney!“ she hollers several times, going after her. With no responds, she stops and watches her get into her car and drive away.

The day is alive with colors of fall, a young boy walks up the stairs of a townhouse, knocks, rings the bell and lays a envelope down at the base of the door, with the words ‘find this - it can ruin us ALL’ and takes off. A young muscular man, unshaved wearing only black jeans, opens the doors, as if he knew the package was there, bends down, picks it up and opens it. Smiling he closes the door behind him and lays the picture face down, next to a purple notebook, on a nearby table and then pulls a drawer open exposing a gun. Sitting down in a wicker chair next to table he puts on socks, shoes and a black t-shirt. As he walks towards a black leather jacket hanging in front of him, he snatches his gun and puts it underneath his shirt against his back, slips into the jacket and leaves.

Unaware that she is being watched Sydney heads for the nearby park. Oakridge Park had changed a lot since Natalie, Kaci and her were little. Snapping at Kaci wasn’t fair, her feelings were justified but if they weren’t fighting she wouldn’t have been downtown to begin with. If she told Kaci, what happened she would have to tell her why she was there in the first place and that was something she wanted to avoid. Sitting by herself, feeling completely isolated, her phone starts to ring.

“Hello?” she says.

“Hey, are you okay?” the female voice says.

“Hey, I’m fine. You?” she says back.

“Kaci, just called me and she worried about you. To tell you the truth, by the time she was done, she had me worrying about you as well.” she revealed.

“Natalie, I’m just going through something kind of personal. I don’t want to bother either of you with it.” she pleads.

”Sydney, look, me and you have know each other since birth, practically, and Kaci, since kindergarten. Kaci, wouldn’t call me if she wasn’t worried about you,” she says obviously rushed.

With sounds of people talking, music playing in the background Natalie says, “Let us be there for you, like you guys were for me.” she says concerned. Followed by silent then she softly adds, ”I would have never survived my father’s infidelities if it hadn’t been for you two by my side.”

“Natalie, we’re ready for you,” a voice from off in the distant comes over the phone.

“Okay I’ll be right there. Hold on a second.” she calls out.

“Hey, look, Syd, they’re ready for me, I need to go. You think they would be tired of shooting me by know” she jokes. “I’ll be back in town soon. We can all get together then and talk this thing through, if it’s still bothering you, okay?” she politely says.

“Okay... Sure... Bye.” she agrees.

“I thought I might find you here. What the hell is wrong with you,” Kaci says as she approaches Sydney from behind.

“Couldn’t just leave me alone, could you?“ asking her without turning around and continues, “What they hell were you thinking, calling Natalie? Jesus! I asked you to me alone” she said turning around quite upset.

As Sydney gets up to leave she spots a man sitting in a car watching her. “Look, you don’t want to get involved with this. I think it would be best to just leave me alone,” she pleads with Kaci.

“I thought she might be able to talk you into telling her what’s wrong with you. Hey, we have been friends for a long time, tell me. What’s wrong, you’re freaking me out,” Kaci says with concern.

Taking a breath, Sydney sits back down and lights a cigarette. “Last night...“ she starts to say, then exhales, “last night I think I saw a man murdered,” she blurts out.

“What? Are you fucking kidding me,” Kaci says shocked and disturbed.

“Where were you last night?” she asks.

“I was downtown near the tracks. I was hanging out around there when this happened,” Sydney reveals.

“What were you doing down there?” Kaci asks, fully aware of the reason.

“I was scoring. Look, Kaci, I don’t want to hear it, I saw it and now I think I’m being followed,” she declares.

“You have to go to the police, Sydney and now, there’s no other choice,” Kaci pleads turning towards the direction that Sydney as fixed her concentration on.

“It’s more complicated then just that, I noticed this morning I lost my journal and now whoever did this knows my first name and where to find me,” she said nervously pulling out her flask and begins drinking.

“Do you really think drinking is going to help this situation?” Kaci says furiously.

“Don’t okay, just don’t...” she says frustrated, then adds, “Are you going to help me or not?” Sydney asks lighting a joint.

“Help you with what? Fuck, Sydney” reacting to the joint, then continues “You don’t need any help. You need to go to the police,” looking at her friend, she notices her slight adjustment in posture “What is it?” moving closer to her,

Kaci leads on Sydney’s shoulder and says, “Your not telling me everything, are you?”

The next morning despite the disturbance coming from a dump truck, a tiny rabbit still sits nibbling on grass, several birds are pecking away at pieces of toast Sydney tossed at them earlier as she sits staring intensely at the newspaper she holds in her hand. It had been a long time since she’d been up early enough to see a sunrise, and this morning’s particular rise was exquisite. Off in the distance she was able to see Kaci’s neighbors’ lawns come to life with color as if a switch were flipped, one section then another. It was gorgeous. With the tail of the sun peeking over the ridge a humble smile comes over her face.

“How long have you been up?” Kaci asks barely a wake stumbling into the kitchen, opening a cabinet above the freshly made pot of coffee, she grabs a mug and say, “Syd? Hey did you hear me?” With no answer, she begins to makes herself breakfast. Pouring herself a glass of orange juice and milk she catches Sydney pacing back and forth on the patio talking to herself, when she enters and let’s out a huge sigh.

“Here” Sydney says tossing the newspaper on top of Kaci’s breakfast.

“Watch it!” she says taking a drink of orange juice with a mouth full of eggs.

Wiping her hands off on a blue cloth napkin she picks up the paper and looks it over. “What I‘m looking at?” she asks.

“What I kept from you. I wasn’t sure about it, but I thought I recognized one of them the other night. After viewing this, it appears that I did.”

Breathing deeply she pulls out one of the kitchen chairs and collapses into it. Pointing to the front page, she begin to weep, the headline reads‘ Transit discovers gunshot victim near tracks.’

“Oh, shit” Kaci says.

“Kaci, it gets worse read the first couple of paragraphs.“ Sydney says as she struggles to get up and gab herself some coffee.

Earlier this morning a transit that was searching for a blanket removed the tarp off of what he thought was dirt and rocks and discovered the body of young man. The body has been identify as local actor/model 21 year-old Nicolas Watson,

“Oh my God Sydney, are you okay?” she utters.

“Keep reading” Sydney says faintly. Kaci reads on.

‘Cole, known by his friends, is Nathaniel and Nicole Watson only son. Nicole (Watson) Atkins, who writers under her maiden name, is an accomplished author, who was blessed twice this year by appearing on the New York Times best-seller, with her two last books. Mr. Watson as you recall has been in the papers the last two year in a very public legal battle over his entertainment company‘ Watson Drake, Incorporated ’ that he and Simon Drake started 20 years ago. Watson Drake, Incorporated, deals in signing, distributing, publishing and releasing works of national and local artists in all aspects in the entertainment media; print, advertising & music.

The Watson’s three children all did and do work for ‘Watson Drake, Incorporated.’ Nicolas, (who was the eldest) graduated from Madison High School in 2000 and was in his final year at Columbia University. He was in town for two weeks completing several photo shoots and filming his first role in a movie. Their daughters, Natalie an eighteen year-old senior and fifteen year-old, Natasha, a freshman both go to Madison. Natalie is a model and is currently in New York City on photo shoot and Natasha, is an actress. She had been shooting a film in Denver, when this tragedy happen.

Nathaniel Watson and Simon Drake met their freshmen year in college. Nicole (Watson) was dating Simon Drake, when they all first met. Nicole, introduced her best Elizabeth (Drake) to Nathaniel. When cupid switched the couples around, a year later, it caused tension between the two future partners and they went their separate ways. During their senior year they met up again and three years later, fresh out of law school, they started ‘Watson Drake, Incorporated’.

“Losing our only son has been extremely hard for me and my wife. Our daughters both seem to be completely numb when dealing with this tragedy. Nicolas, I never called him Cole, was well liked by his friends and quite popular at school. He will be missed.’ Mr. Watson said barely able to articulate.”

As she quietly started to cry she finished reading the rest of the article to herself as she stepped out onto the patio, while motioning to Sydney for a cigarette.

A representative for the Drake Family said, “They are saddened by this tragedy. These two families are extremely close. Cole, had been friends with the Drake’s children since they were all small. In one way or another, all of the children are contacted with each other. Mrs. Drake, is the senior editor, for ‘Ears-N-Eyes’, a monthly magazine published by ‘Watson Publications’ with information about all upcoming events, interviews and releases, surrounding ‘Watson Drake, Incorporated.’ clients. Natalie and his daughter, Sydney, have been best friends for years. Sydney, the Drake’s oldest child is eighteen and the youngest author to be signed with ’Watson Publications.’ The Drake’s also have two sons, seventeen year-old, Johnston, who is a junior and sixteen year-old, Spencer, who is a sophomore. Spencer has been dating Nathaniel’s fifteen daughter, Natasha for two years. All three of them attend Madison. Both brothers are musicians, and formed a band called ‘Spencer Johnston’ three years ago with childhood friend, Kaci Edger. The trio are currently in the studio completing their debut album under their new label ‘Drake Records’.

Mr. Drake said ’he couldn’t imagine what Nathan (Watson) is going through. I have two sons of my own, I can only assume he feels out of control.’ They considered Cole as part of their family, he will be missed.” Cole’s girlfriend, Ryde Mornington, fellow actor and friend for10 years, has been out of town for the last month; shooting in Canada, and was unreachable for comment. She returns to Tulsa tomorrow and it’s unknown if the 20-year old will release her own statement or not. In related news, Nathaniel Watson’s office at ’Watson Drake, Incorporated.’ was broken into the same evening his son was murder. The incidents appear to be unrelated at the moment.“

Laying the paper down, blowing on his bowl of oatmeal, a rapid vibration from underneath ruffles the paper. Reaching calmly with his right hand, he pulls out a pager that beams a electronic blue face, and reads the message. Coolly getting up he grabs the remainder of his breakfast, cleans off the dish and puts it in the dishwasher. Turning the corner, he enters the walkway directly in front the door and shoots a cocky smile at himself, in an oval mirror hanging on the wall. As he slips his black leather jacket on, he clutches his Raven and puts it beneath his shirt against his back and leaves. Clicking his alarm off he gets in his obsidian black metallic Mercedes-Benz, flips down the visor, pulls out the soundtrack to Amadeus and inserts it in the CD player. Turning the volume up, he catches a glimpse of a white 3x5 envelope resting under one of his windshield wipers. Reaching inside his coat he retrievers a stick of gum, lowers his window and reaches out to grab the envelope as he takes off.

The chimes of the doorbell echo throughout the house, causing the Watson’s two black Labrador Retrievers to go ballistic with energy. Opening the door is 15 year-old Natasha Watson, who resembles her brother by being the only other one who shares blue/green eyes and blonde hair, everyone else had brown on both accounts, but today Natasha usual radiant glowing shade was absent, hidden behind strained bloodshot eyes.

“Oh, hello Sydney. Natalie isn‘t here, she went to California to visit our grandparents.” Natasha mumbles.

“I didn’t come by to see her. Next time you talk to though will tell her call me, I miss talking to her.“ she asks.

“Sure, Syd, I’ll do that.“ she responded.

“I’m sorry to bug ya at this time, but is your Dad around? I really need to speak with him,” she asks.

“Yeah, he’s in his study. I’ll let him know your here. Hold on just a second,” she says as she invites her in and closes the door behind her.

Looking around their usually dark forum, today it is covered in flowers, she ponders whether her arrival was a good idea or not.

Entering from the hallway Mr. Watson comes in, “Sydney, what can I do for you?” he gently asks.

“Uncle Nathan, is there somewhere… where we can talk?” she silently asks.

“Sure, let’s go into the TV room. I was going to call your parents but haven’t gotten around to it. How are they doing?” he wonders with a kind smile on his face. “I don’t know, I haven’t talked to them since I got back, I needed to talk with you first,” she says nervously.

Walking into the large room, surrounding by shelves filled almost to the ceiling with movies of all formats he offers her a soda and walks behind the bar. Shaking her head no, he pulls out a glass and pours himself a drink.

“Have a seat. So, Sydney what’s on your mind?” he says as he sits on a dark chocolate couch.

“Uncle Nat, I’m not sure how to tell you this, so I guess I will just say it. I believe I may have seen Cole killed," she says edgily.

“What? How? When? Tell me everything you know,” he inquires.

As Sydney tells him her story, Mr. Watson suddenly becomes anxious and angry, he gets up and pours himself another drink.

“Have you told anyone else this?” he asks staring at the countertop of the bar, which throws Sydney off a little.

Finding his response odd, she gets up, walks behind him and cautiously says “No. I haven’t. I wanted to talk with you first before going to the police,” she insists.

“Thank you for letting me know, are you planning, I mean are you going to the police with this?” he asks acting very eerie.

“Yes, sir, right after I leave here, I just wanted you and your family to hear this information from me first, ” she says with concern.

“If you don‘t mind I‘d like to tell the girls, myself. You shouldn‘t have to keep repeating this story, Syd," he said with concern.

“I don‘t mind really, uncle Nathan. But if that is how you want handle this, then I understand.” Sydney said.

“I would like to go with you when you talk to the police, if I may Sydney?” he asks.

At the police station, sitting on a green steel bench screwed to the cement floor, Sydney and Mr. Watson patiently wait for an officer to take her statement. As two uniformed officers walk by with a man in hand cuffs, Sydney feels this overwhelming feeling to get up and leave. Beating incredibly fierce, as if she had run a marathon, her heart bangs against her chest as though it is going to escape causing her to stand up suddenly.

“Excuse me, Miss Drake?” a lofty black officer, says speaking to the small group of people sitting around.

Looking around he says, to Sydney who is standing near a drinking faucet, “Are you Sydney Drake?”

Turning around she speaks with anxiety “Yes, I’m Sydney Drake” shifting back and forth on her feet.

“I’m officer Michael Debose; I understand you have some information about a case we’re investigating.”

“Yes, I believe that I saw the murder of Cole Watson,” Sydney said.

Seeing his confused expression she adds “Nicolas Watson, the young man found by the tracks last Saturday morning.”

Moving towards her he says, “We can talk in here.” pointing to a empty conference room.

Standing up following Sydney and officer Debose, Mr. Watson is asked “Excuse, but are you her father?”

“No, I’m Nicolas Watson’s father, I’m Nathaniel Watson” he declares.

“I’m sorry Sir, but I need to talk to her alone. You can wait out here if you would like,” he says pointing to vacant chair right outside the room.

“Okay, thank you, Sir.” Watson response as he sits.

“Now please tell me what makes you think you witnessed this crime?” he asks as he shuts the door behind him.

“Officer Debose is it?” Sydney asks.

“Yes?” he sits down at an large wooden table across from her.

“Could you please tell me what time it is? If it is close to three o’clock, I need to call my brother Johnston.”

Pulling back his jacket cuff he says, “It’s a quarter till. Please go ahead,” as he stands up moving to corner of the room to give her privacy.

“This will only take a second. I need to ask him if he can drop off our younger brother at the auto shop.“ Sydney says as she places her cell phone to her ear. “Johnston, I need to look out for Spencer. I’m not going to be able to pick him up. Can you do it? He needs to be taken to the auto shop, his mustang is ready.” she asks. Nodding her head, she says, “No. Mom already paid them, the car should be parked out front.“ she says, then adds “Thanks Johnston.”

“Sorry, about that,” she says now directing her attention towards officer Debose.

“No problem, I wish my children were that considerate with each other,” he laughs causing Sydney to relax a little.

“Okay, Ms. Drake, tell me what you know,” he says sitting back down.

Elsewhere pulling into one of many parking lots along the riverside, the unshaved man gets out and walks towards another man seated on a bench. “I located the girl, Sir. She goes to Madison High,” he says with a raspy voice as he sits down. “Where is she now?” the other asks intensely. “She is downtown at police station,” he calmly responses. “What?” he blurts out. “There’s nothing to worry about sir, I asked one of the men to take care of it. Everything is under control,” he says confidently. “What’s her name?” the older gentleman asks. “Sydney Drake, sir, she‘s a 18-year-old senior...” he started to say, then was interrupted. “Where does she work?” he snapped. “She works for ’Watson Publications’, as a writer.” he said.

Running his hand through what little of his dark hair he has the man says, “Keep a eye on her. I want to know where she is at all times. Don’t crowd her but stay close until I say otherwise. Look the man I work for wants to meet you. You need to be here” handing him a piece of paper, “at 3 o‘clock. If you run into any problem, you can reach me here. ” he states handing him a newspaper and leaving. Unrolling the paper he discovers written in black marker, a number, along with $15,000 dollars.

“Thank you for coming in,” Debose says and adds, “if you remember anything else no matter how trivial, please call me,” handling her his card. “Mr. Watson, she has been very helpful, we’ll keep you informed if anything new comes to light with this new information,” he says. “Thank you, I would appreciate it,” shaking Debose hand. “Sydney, I seriously need to run. Thanks again for doing this,” he says hugging her goodbye. “Do you need a ride home Miss Drake?” the officer asks. “No, I drove, but thanks anyway,” she tells him.

As Sydney heads out of the station she notices a familiar car and realizes it is the man from the park yesterday, watching her intensely. As she turns to go back into the station he quickly drives away. Shaken by this she sits on the steps of the courthouse and smokes a cigarette.

“Excuse, Miss Drake?” officer Debose appeared and spoke. “Yes?” as she looks up he says, “I realized I didn’t have a way of getting in touch with you. I’m sorry I didn’t ask you this inside.” “Oh, it’s okay,” she says as she writes her cell number down on a sheet of paper he has attached to a clipboard. “I did forgot to tell you one thing about that night. What I was doing downtown in the first place. I didn’t tell you because I didn’t want to get in trouble, because, well... it was illegal.” she surrendered. “Considering the situation, whatever it was that you were doing, no law officials witnessed it, so there really isn’t anything we can do about it. So please feel free to let me know,” he informs her. “I was buying drugs. I had been down there for several hours, that is why my memory of the situation is so muddled,” she confesses. “What I told you upstairs was true, I just left out what I was doing and why I couldn’t really remember more than I did.” Sydney adds. “Well, like I said before, you got free pass on this one. Look I don’t need to tell you that what happen that night could have turned out completely different. You’re lucky. If you have a problem with drugs Sydney, you may want to consider talking with someone about it.” he says shaking her hand, then adds “thanks again for stopping by,” and walks back into the station.

A little after 3 o’clock two gentlemen, who appear not to be with each other, walk into a Borders, choose a table off and to the back of the cafe’ section and sit down. The unshaved man lays his aluminum briefcase on the black tabletop and unlatches it. Removing a black file he lays it in front of the fair-haired gentlemen across from him. “This is the information you wanted,” he says quietly. “I’m not sure she is much of a threat, even though she has just left the police station. A friend of mine told me she was pretty out of it that night, Sir,” he continued. “Well, she is a threat. She must have remembered enough about that night to make a report.” he said frustrated. “Your not here to give me your opinion on this situation, your here to do a job,” he added aggravated. “What do you want done, sir?” he says backing off. Looking over the file he says “This event on Friday,” he begins to say while viewing several pages “I need you to show up, show some intimation and make this problem go away. Whatever you need just get in touch with a man you saw earlier,” he says standing up to leave. “Sir, I just have one question?” he asks coolly. “Yes?” obviously disturbed. “Isn’t this...” he started to say. “Yes, it is and I still want it taking care of,” turning and walking away.

In the middle of several large brick buildings downtown a smaller radiant building covered completely in glass rests. On the top floor designed in vibrate colors of brown, green and yellow, a young brunette sits at a desk in front of a wall with black lettering that reads ‘Watson Drake, Incorporated‘ . Walking through the glass doors with ‘Watson Publications’ printed on one door and ‘Drake Records’ on the other door trimmed in gold a mailman enters and hands the woman behind the desk the mail. “Do you have anything going out today, Georgina?” he asks. “Yes, I do Mitchell, hold on one second.” she politely says, pressing a button on a fully lit up phone in front of her. “Mr. Drake, Mitchell has arrived Sir,” she informs him. “Thank you Georgina, I’m sending Carey, to the front with my mail now.” he kindly says. “It’ll be just a moment Mitchell his secretary, Carey is bringing his mail up to front as we speak,” she says. “No problem. Do you mind if I use your bathroom?” he asks. “No go right ahead. I’ll just lay the mail here” pointing to a glass bin laying on the crystal top part of the desk.

Sitting in a big green leather chair Mr. Drake is looking over the financial reports of Watson Drake, Incorporator's last six months. Viewing the paperwork for ‘Watson Publications’ shows a severe decline overall in profits, mainly in circulation and work released by new-signed authors. With a loss of 10.5 million dollars over the last two years, ‘Watson Publications‘; barely side-step bankruptcy. The last time bankruptcy was hanging over the company, Simon wasn’t sure he was going to be able to save ‘Watson Publications’, but due to his sharp and intelligent decisions the company survived. Becoming increasingly frustrated with his partner, Nathaniel Watson the last ten years, Simon, now finds himself in the middle of a multi-million dollar legal battle for control of ‘Watson’s Publications’. A decision that Simon, has personally been struggling with. Buying his partner out has become a drawn out process that has lasted over two years.

The bright glistening lights shower down on the glittery green grass. Eruption of the crowd beckons with waving hands, flags and cheering, as the Madison Marlins score another touchdown against rivals the Eisenhower Ermines. Sitting with Kaci in a sea of blue and white Sydney is finally enjoying herself.

“Hey, I’m gonna get something to drink. You want something?” Kaci asks. “Yeah, sure. I’ll take a bottle water.” Sydney says. “Okay, I’ll be right back.” she says. In true character Kaci continued to support and stand by her side as her friend. Staring at the blenchers across covered in white and black Sydney begins to remember the events of last week.

Glancing here and there she notices a handsome young man dressed in dark jeans white shirt and a brown leather jacket being very attentive to her. Smiling he waves nervously as he steps forward slowly waiting for Sydney to respond. “Who’s that?” Kaci says noticing Sydney distraction as she sits down. “I don’t know. Have you ever seen him before?” she asks. “Nope, but he’s cute. You should go over there and talk to him.” she persists. “No, I can’t do that,” smiling, full of giddiness. “Well at least acknowledge him, Syd,” Kaci says nudging her. “Okay, stop goof,” giggling she turns her attention towards her admirer, throws him a flirtatious smile and a nervous wave.

Walking towards her cautiously he flirts back. Sydney grins back, decides to gets up and says “I’ll be right back.” Meeting him half way he says “Hi. I’m Victor.” Still quite nervous she says “Hello. I’m Sydney.” “Yeah are you hungry? I was just heading to the stand to get something. Would you like something?” he says with a friendly smile. “Sure, that would be nice” turning to her friend she motions I’ll be right back. “Do you go to school here at Madison?” she asked. “No, my younger brother does, I‘m in college” he stated.

As they walk down towards the stadium stairs and approach the slope leading under the bleachers he grabs her arm forcibly. Shocked she tries to pull away, but his grip is way too powerful. Dragging her off to the side he says, “What you saw downtown, you’re going to forgot it. You saw nothing,” he threatens. “If the police come around again,” pushing her into the wall of the stadium with great intimidation he leans forward and whisper in her ear “I suggest you get amnesia.”

As a large shadow dances around the corner he leans in and kisses her. Terrified she tries to struggles. “Don’t. Stop fighting me, now,” he aggressively says in her ear as he kisses her even harder. As the shadow take solid form, a group of cheerleaders pass by them, he steps back and says, “this is your only warning and last chance“, touching her face gently. Sydney quivering, breathing quite intensely begins to cry quietly. He steps in closer says “don‘t let happen to him, happen to you”, running his hand down the front of her chest, slides the tips of his fingers into her shirt, gently runs cross the top of her breasts, then rips off her necklace and walks away.

Standing their still shaken up Sydney reaches into her purse looking for a joint. Nervously peering around Sydney slowly walks with her back against the wall and around the corner where the pavement turns into gravel. Even though she worried about Kaci coming and finding her, she didn’t wavier her thoughts to get high. The glare of the stadium lights blind Sydney’s engorged blue eyes glazed in a scarlet layer of pain. Walking along the fence in a gaze Sydney pulls out a cigarette and lights it.

“Darling is at the 30, 20, it looks like he’s going all the way. At the 10 and touchdown Madison. Unbelievable! Freshmen Joseph Darling ran 45 yards to score pushing Madison ‘s 21 to zero lead to 27.” booms from the stadium speaker high above and barley heard over the crowd’s excitement.

“Are leaving for the night or are you coming back in?” a middle aged woman says standing at the fence opening. “I’ll be back” Sydney says as she rushes by her. “You’re need to take a ticket” she informs her.

Turning briefly she takes the blue, white and black ticket. Heading off into the rows of parked cars Sydney lights another cigarette and walks up to her BMW as she clicks off the alarm. Starts the car, turns up the volume on the music and reaches across opening her glove compartment. Grabs a zip-lock bag filled half part way with unclean weed and a dozen or so joints. Taking two joints out she seals the bag and replaces it. Reaching under her seat for a her flask, she is startled by a tap on the window. Jerks up and see Kaci standing there.

“Let me in...” Kaci says. Pressing the unlock button next to her she motions to Kaci to get in. Seeing the joints on her lap Kaci says, “What’s going on? Why are you out here?” Kaci asks. “That guy I was talking too. He killed Cole or knows who did.” Sydney said nervously. “What happen?” Kaci wonders. “He threatened me and stole my necklace.” Sydney said still shaken up. “Are you okay?” Kaci said looking at her best friend quivering next to her. “Just a few bruises… I’m mainly fucking freaked.” she softly said picking up the joints on her lap. “Sydney...” Kaci starts to speak when Sydney interrupts her. “I don’t want to hear it. Okay.” Sydney blurts out lighting a joint. “I was just going to say, let’s go over to my house. I’ll drive. My parents won’t be back till Sunday afternoon.” Kaci says taking the keys. “Sure, that’s better than staying here.” Sydney says.

The following day around 10 am at Southern Hills Country Club the fair-haired gentleman hidden by the street and other players, is playing a round of golf, Victor dressed in black drives up on a golf cart and hands him a small sandwich bag containing Sydney necklace. Taking a hold of the bag, sliding it into his pocket, he slips on his glove and grabs his club from his caddy.

“Everything has been taking care of Sir, we shouldn’t have anymore problems with her.” he says with encouragement and a smug smile. “Glad to hear it,” he casual says not even looking in the direction of the other man as he slices the ball, then hands his club to the caddy. “Is there anything else you need me to do, Sir?” the man says. “Victor, I need you to go to here,” handing him a his card and says “this evening at 1 am, there will be a sliver Cadillac waiting, when you get there you’ll be given instructions as to my final request.” Looking at his bosses card he flips it over, sees the address and says “No, problem Sir, I’ll be there.”

As it begins to rain he turns to his caddy, removing and then handing him his glove and says, “let’s head back to the club, call ahead and tell them to have my car ready.”

As Sydney talked to officer Debose on the phone, reporting her attack by the young man who she only knew has Victor, Kaci, is sitting next her on the side of the Drake’s pool. Singing to herself with headphones she is going over songs for ‘Spencer Johnston’ first concert and playing with Drake’s chocolate labs.

Hearing off in the background ‘Thank For The Music’ coming from the kitchen, Sydney jumps up and says “hold on Kaci, that’s my cell”, not hearing her, she splashes water on her and points to the kitchen as she races off. “Hello.” Sydney says. “Sydney?” the voice says. “Hey, who this?” she cautiously asks. “It’s me, Natalie. I just got your message to call you. Sorry it took a while.” she said rather cheery. “Oh, no problem. You sound good, California must be helping.” she laughs. “It sure was. I just couldn’t hang out here anymore. It was starting to drive me crazy.” she said. “Here? Are you back?” she wondered. “Yeah, I just got back earlier this morning. I was wondering if I could come by and talk with you?” she asked.

“Natalie, hold on my dad just came in.” she tells her. “Sydney, I almost forgot, your mother won‘t be home tonight. She has a late meeting at the office with her editor. Can you guys figure something out to eat” he asks. “Sure, where are you gonna be?” she asked. “I have some things I need to take care of.” he says sturdily walking out of the room. Laying the phone down, she runs after him and says, “Hey are you okay, Dad?” with a gentle smile. “Syd, I’m just tired. I have a lot to deal with. Nathaniel isn’t making my life any easier. Some days, I just wish he wasn’t around.” he says tiredly, then adds, “involved in this business.“ “I know it been hard on your friendship, Dad, I can only imagine how that feels. Kaci & Natalie, are like sisters to me. I’d be lost without them” she says as she hugs her dad. “Well, I’m running late, I need to go. Here’s a hundred, why doesn’t the gang get together before the concert.” he suggests. “Oh, that’s right. That’s tonight, I almost forgot.” she says with excitement. “You guys be safe. I had Georgina setup a limo, it’s should be around 6:30” he said hugging her and handing her extra money. “Cool... thanks Dad.” kissing him goodbye and closing the door.

“Hey, sorry about that.“ she said into the phone. “No, problem.“ she said. “Hey come on over it’s just me and Kaci here, everyone else is off working or something” she offered. “Oh, Kaci, there‘s too, great! I haven’t talked to her in forever, you either for that matter. It’ll be nice catching up with you gals.” she happily says.

Her cell begins to vibrate and beep, has Sydney lays it down. Looking at it, she notices a text message ’I have 2 make 1 stop. B by after that. 3’. “Who that?” Kaci asks. “Just Natalie. If you weren’t here I’d have to guess.” she laughed. “Oh, she used our code ‘3’ did she.” she smiled.

Sitting near the pool around a wooden table under a umbrella Natalie says, “My dad filled me in on everything you saw. God, Sydney, I’m so sorry that you had to go through that. How are you doing with it all?” “Well...” Sydney says, as she fills Natalie in on everything that has happen, “That’s horrible about your mother’s necklace. I remember when she gave it to you.” Natalie quietly says. “Me, too.” adds Kaci. “She said her true love gave it her and she hoped it would lead me to mine, someday. It’s just all getting so complicated and frightening.” Sydney calmly says with a expression of distant thoughts running through her mind. Snapping out of it she says “Natalie, we were going to grab something to eat. You want to join us?” “I’d love too, but I’m meeting my father for lunch. This is the first time since” looking down at the ground, her eyes become watery she continues, “Cole, died, that he offered.” Lowering her tone she says, ”We use to grab lunch all the time.” “That’s cool, Nat.” Kaci says. “Yeah, are you busy for dinner? Everyone getting together back here around 5, before the show.” adds Sydney. “Sounds like a plan. I‘ll see you then. Do I need to pick-up Natasha or she with Spencer already?” Natalie asked. “I don’t know.“ Sydney says. “She’s probably with Spencer...“ Kaci says playfully. “Your probably right, Kac. I’ll call her later and make sure. See you gals later....” she says as she hugs each of them goodbye.

“Good afternoon, Georgina.” Natalie says. “Hello Natalie.” she replies. “I’m meeting dad for lunch, is it okay if I wait in his office?” she asks. “Sure. Would you like anything to drink?” Georgina asks. “I’m not sure, but thanks. I’ll grab something out of his fridge if I do” she grins. “That’s a plan. You look good.” she says as she turns to answer the phone.

Mouthing ‘thank you’ Natalie walks down the long hallway marked with the words ’Watson Publications’ and into her dad’s office at the end. Sitting in his chair, she turns around and looks at the window ledge covered in family photos. Replacing a photo of all 6 children, that was taking recently Natalie finds herself tearing up and decides to distraction her emotions by watching TV on her father large flat screen television. Her father’s television is hidden behind the wall in front of her. Searching for the remote that reveals the set, she grabs a soda out of the fridge and sits back down. Looking around the desk, she then stands up again, surveys the room, sits back down and sighs. Unable to locate it, she wonders if it might be in one of his drawers and opens one. Her cell phone goes off and she looks at it, receiving a text message, she leans back in the chair, seeing a shadow she looks towards the door, then looks into the drawer again and closes it as she leaves.

Later that night at ‘The Wharehouse’, filled just over the capacity of 600, ‘Spencer Johnston’ is wrapping up final sound checks. ‘The Wharehouse’ is just that, an abandoned warehouse that was remodeled and turned into a pub/nightclub. It’s décor appears rundown to stay true to it’s warehouse atmosphere. Steel tables, and steel chairs with wore leather covers in black, brown, blue and sliver. Surrounding the dance floor are dozen large shaped wooden spool tables with black, brown, blue and sliver stools around them.

Running along one side of warehouse is a beer bar with 6 large steel boxes filled with crushed ice and bottle beers. Each one holds 3 different types of beers. Behind that against the wall is a mirror the length of the bar. Lined right in front of the mirror is every type of bottled beer available. Several black and brown steel posts attached to the floor are holding up slaps of painted sliver and blue sheets of steel to create countertops. Straight across from that running along that wall is a liquor bar. Same design and colors. Only instead of black and brown steel posts they are sliver and blue. The countertops are black and brown unlike the sliver and blue across the way. Three large steel boxes filled with crush ice holds all kinds of juices for mixed drinks and chilled liquor and wines. Lined right in front of this mirror are every type of liquor and wine that ‘The Wharehouse’ sell.

“Where is Nat?” Kaci asked. “She running late, Natasha forgot her camera, so she stopped by the house before coming. Don’t worry, we’re all gonna be here.” Sydney said smiling at her nervous friend. “I know I’m just really excited and ready to start this thing.” Kaci says with energy. Wearing faded carpenter jeans, a gray T-shirt with the ‘Rolling Stone’ magazine logo on the front with and penguin tailed tuxedo jacket Sydney says in responds to Kaci attire, “You look relaxed. Don’t worry everything is going to be okay.” “Of course it will be” Kaci says semi-convincing. “Hey, Kaci, I told Nat, I would meet her out front. Your gonna do fine. I have complete faith in that.” Sydney says hugging her friend. “She’s right you know” a voice says behind them, looking to see who it is Sydney says “If you won’t believe me, believe your boyfriend,” grabbing his face she says “would face like this lie?” smiling, then adds sincerely, “Glad you could make it, Adam” and walked away.

As Sydney, heads down the side of the stage she sees her brother’s standing off to the side. “You know, guys if you pass out before the show starts... there wouldn’t be a show” she teases them. “Hey, sis” dressed in light brown corduroys and a vintage red T-shirt with a picture of Yoda and the words ’Jedi Master Yoda’ underneath the picture, Johnston says nudging her holding his guitar. “Syd, how’s Kaci doing?” Spencer asks, nervously picking at his bass. Spencer is dressed in a black slacks covered in white paint marks and a 1950’s style black and white checkered bowling shirt.

Both brothers have naturally blonde hair, like their mother’s, but recently they both had their naturalness covered up with black highlights. Spencer’s curly head of hair was cut just above the first sign of twist of curl. Johnston is cut about inch and half from his head and spiked out on all sides.

“Oh, about the same as you two. Holding up on the outside and falling apart in the inside.” she jokily says. “Thanks sis” they both say as she walks away grinning.

Standing by the edge of the stage Kaci is startled when she sees Victor, talking with another young man who looks familiar too her, but she isn’t sure how. Tapping Spencer’s shoulder she says “Spence, see those two guys standing under the Bud Light sign over there?” she asks pointing them out. “Yeah. What about them?” he replies. “The one with the white shirt, he looks familiar.” she says. “He should, that’s Camden.” he says. “Who?” she replied. “You don’t know Camden, I thought everyone knew him. He’s a dealer, didn’t you know that?” he says, then adds, “I don’t know who that is that he is talking to though.” “I do...” Kaci says smiling in delight as the lights go down and smoke starts to rise.

“All right! Welcome to ‘The Wharehouse’ where today’s hottest young bands in Oklahoma perform.” Echoes throughout the nightclub. “Tonight in their first public performance a trio straight off the streets of Tulsa, newly signed to ‘Drake Records’. “ is heard as a red thin laser bounce across the stage. “Are you ready to rock?” the voice says with excitement. Cheering, yelling and whistling erupts from the crowd. “A little bit of punk, a little bit of alternative and a lot of rock… Spencer Johnston”

Later around 1 o’clock in the morning, pulling into Mohawk Park, driving through the unlit, abandoned area Victor notices the Cadillac pulled off to the side of the road and out of site. Turning his headlights off, his music down, he pulls up behind it and parks. Walking towards him, a figure comes out of the shadows and taps on his window. Lowering his window, a bullet hits him in the chest from a muffed gunshot. Pushing his body back into the seat, away from the steering wheel, a hand reaches into the car and grabs a ginger colored business card laying in the coin rest.

The next morning around 9, a text message appears on Natalie phone, that reads, “Hey, meet me at the police station. 3.“ Grabbing her jacket and purse she heads downtown. Talking on her phone she says “Did you get message about meeting at the police station?” she says into the phone. “Cool. Something must be up. See you there.” she says clicking the phone off and laying it in the sit next to her.

MacDonnell steps out of his office and finishing writing a note on a small yellow square piece of paper, then puts it in his pocket. “I appreciate you ladies coming in this morning with this new information.” sergeant MacDonnell says as he shakes each of their hands. “Your welcome” the three girls replied. “Adelaide?“ MacDonnell says. “Yes, Sir?“ an attractive scarlet haired woman replies. “I need you run an errand for me, if you don’t mind?” he asks reaching into his pocket and handing her a post-it. “No problem, Sir” laughing looking at the post-it. “Kempsey, I need you to call Mr. Watson. Ask him if he wouldn’t mind coming in.” Looking up at the clock he adds, “around 4 o’clock. We have new information to share with him about his son.” “No, problem Sir,” Kempsey says leaping up from his desk knocking his coffee over. “Hamilton?” MacDonnell bellows.

Officer Hamilton unaware that his name was called continues to sleep at his desk. Hamilton is straight out of the academy and unlike his partner Kempsey he is agile, despite being dead on his feet appearance. He has been out late the night before celebrating his graduation.

“Hamilton?” MacDonnell hollers. “Yes.” Hamilton responds to the fact Kempsey tossed a file close to his resting head. “What?” he said looking at his partner. “Sergeant wants you.” Kempsey says looking towards MacDonnell. Standing up, straightening his tie and tucking in his shirt he says, “Yes, Sir.” “I need you and Kempsey to go to ‘Albertson’ at 15th and Lewis and bring Mr. Newcastle in for questioning.” MacDonnell instructs.

“You got it, Sir” Hamilton says as he grabs his sport coat. Walking towards the radio shelve he is joined by Kempsey who just got off the phone with Mr. Watson.

“Take him into room 3, Kempsey.” Hamilton says has he walks towards and then into MacDonnell office. “We’re getting ready to talk to Newcastle, Sir.” he says. “Good. Find out everything you can from him about the Watson case.” MacDonnell instructs. “You got it, Sir” Hamilton says as he leaves the office.

“Do you know Cole Watson?” Hamilton asks Mr. Newcastle. “The kid who was murder recently.” he replies. “Yes.” Kempsey adds. “I know he used to go to Madison and that he is up and coming actor.” Newcastle states. “Look, we know you’re dealer. Did you ever sell Cole drugs?” Hamilton asks. “I don’t know what you are talking about.” he says shifting in his chair. “We not here to bust you for drugs. We just want know everything you know about this young man.” Hamilton says as he sits down across from him. “I don’t know anything, man.” Newcastle says. “Do you know anyone name Victor?” Hamilton continues. “Who?” he says leading back in his chair. “So it doesn’t matter to you that he was found dead this morning then?” Kempsey adds. As he takes a moment to process the information Kempsey laid on him, he then says, “I don’t know him, man.” “Okay, place him under arrest Kempsey” Hamilton says to his partner standing behind him. “For what? You’ve got nothing on me.” Camden uncertainly says. Walking behind Camden Hamilton says to Kempsey, “I guess he won’t mind us searching him then…” “Wait. Okay,” he nervously responds.

Later that afternoon, sitting in his office going over some paper work, sergeant MacDonnell looks up in response Adelaide tapping on his window. “Sir, Mr. Watson is here. Right in Mr. Watson“ she says. “Thanks for coming in Mr. Watson on such short notice.” sergeant MacDonnell says standing up and shaking his hand. “No problem. You said you have new information about Nicolas’s death” he eagerly asks. “Let’s talk over there, Mr. Watson.” he says pointing across the station to an empty room next to water cooler. “I would of come in this morning, when officer Kempsey called, but I out of town.” he said. “No, problem. Take a seat Mr. Watson. Would you like anything to eat or drink?” he offers. “Coffee...” then laughs and adds “a doughnut if you guys have any laying around.” “Cream?” he asks. “Yeah, that would be nice, thanks.” Mr. Watson says.

Walking into the room with two coffee stacked on top of each other in one hand and two doughnuts in the other, MacDonnell sits down. “Here you go Nathan. May I call you Nathan?” he asks reaching into his pocket laying cream on the table. “Nathaniel, actually.” he respond. “First let’s go over everything again, so that I know we are on the same page.” he starts. “Okay, sounds good to me.” Nathaniel says.

“Well, that’s should catch you up Nathan.” MacDonnell says. “Well, sergeant, and it’s Nathaniel, I knew all of that already. I thought you said you had new information you wanted to share with me?” Nathaniel asked. “Oh, I do, Mr. Watson” he says. Walking into the room, Adelaide hands him a brown paper bag, “thanks, Adelaide” he says. “No, problem, Sir” she says as she walks to the corner of the room. “What’s going on, do you have information about Nicolas or not?“ Nathaniel asks irritated.

Standing up, walking around to the other side of the table, leaning in towards Mr. Watson he says “I understand why you had this taken from the girl. What I don’t understand is why you had your own son killed ?” he says, then adds “Take your time, we can wait... we have nothing else to do.” Obviously throw by this he calmly says “What? I don’t understand... Look, I have no idea what you are talking about, really.” he quickly adds. “I think you do!” sergeant MacDonnell says sitting on the table. “What! Your kidding?” he says as he stands up, “What makes you think I had anything to do with this, sergeant ?” he asks. “Your awfully jumping Nathaniel. Are you sure you don’t have something add?” he pesters at him.

“Sydney Drake. She identified Victor’s picture from one of our books earlier this afternoon. The young man who took this from her.” he says reaching for the brown bag. “Took what?” he asks with a puzzled look on his face. Leaning forward he says “this” as he turns the bag upside down revealing a small sandwich bag with Sydney’s necklace inside of it. “He’s the one who killed Nicolas, then.” Mr. Watson said. “Was that a question or confession, Mr. Watson?” he asked him. “Just a comment. I don’t know anyone named Victor. Maybe you should be talking to him.” he says. “Well, we can’t ask him. He was found dead this morning.“ MacDonnell said looking directing at Nathaniel. “The interesting thing is Kaci Edger, also met Victor and she was able to identified him at the morgue several hours ago.” he said standing up walking around.

“Did you know Victor had brother?” he asked. “Of course not, I don’t even know who he is. How would I know if he had siblings.” Nathaniel responds. “Well that makes sense. When you put it like that.” Adelaide says arrogantly. “We didn’t either. If it wasn’t for Ms. Edger information this case would probably have remained unsolved.” he said sitting on the table again. “You do know who she that is correct?” MacDonnell asked. “Yes, she my daughter’s best friend…” Nathaniel replied, then adds, “what does she have to do with my son’s death?” “She told us about Newcastle.” Adelaide said. “Look I’m tried of these games. Who is Newcastle?” Nathaniel says becoming frustrated. “That’s Victor’s last name. His brother Camden seemed quite upset this morning when he found out his brother was killed.” MacDonnell said. “I’m sure he was, but that still has nothing to do with me.“ Nathaniel said. “True, I realized that too. But then we found this” picking up the necklace, “and things started to make sense” MacDonnell said. “Look, the only time I have seen that is when I have seen Sydney, herself. She wears it all the time.” he says. Laughing intentionally to annoy Nathaniel he says, “and that’s the story your going with.” Leaning forward he says, “See, we are having a problem with believing you, Nathan.” MacDonnell said. “Nathaniel, please.” Nathaniel angrily said. “We found this at your office Nathaniel, in your desk in fact. Now, I’m curious, how did it get there?” he asks. “In my desk, really, I doubt it.” laughing looking down at the table, as if he got away with something. Walking towards the door, officer Adelaide opens it and says, “you can come in now,” hearing footsteps as the silhouette takes form, he looks up and see Natalie standing before him, who turns and walks away the moment he looks at her.

Completely covered in a look of hatred and pain he stand up, “I was losing millions of dollars. That stupid man” he says angrily walking back and forth.

“Who?” MacDonnell asked with interests. “Simon! He wouldn’t hand Drake Records over to me. Instead, he wanted to fucking buy me out! Me! He wanted me to walk away from my business.” he continued “I’d finally got to a point where enough was enough. I’d had it. Two years of negotiating, losing money and nothing changed.”

Looking at himself in the mirror he fixes his hair, turns around and sits down.

“See, when Nicolas was born I had half of ‘Watson Publishers’ control put in a trust for him, that he would have access upon his twenty-first birthday. I was so happy when he was born,” he says slowly looking up grabbing the empty bag and twisting it.

“I never thought, a year later, that happiness would be ripped from me. Simon and I, as you know are in a very nasty legal battle over ownership of the smaller companies within ‘Watson Drake, Incorporated.’ ‘Watson Publications & Drake Records‘.” he crossly said getting up pacing around the room. “I was looking out for my son, passing along my future.” he chuckles, then adds “so I thought.” “Wasn’t Cole almost 21?” MacDonnell asks. “Yes!” he says sitting down, taking a moment, then slams his fist on the table and shoves himself back, “tomorrow” he says furiously with a frown that turns into a evil grin.

“Mr. Watson, are you waving your right to an attorney?” MacDonnell asks. “Yes!” he responds. MacDonnell continues, “You weren’t happy that you first born and only son was turning 21?” “No!” he yelled. “So you had your son killed... that’s a little extreme, don’t you think?” he asks. “Yes...”smiling as he stood up again, turning around looking at himself in the one-way mirror again and says “if he were my son.”

With shock expressions, MacDonnell looks at Adelaide, “Oh, did I fill in a missing piece for you boys?” he sarcastically says, then adds “and girls” smiling at Adelaide. “Who was he the son of?” she asks. “When I met my wife, Nicole... gosh, she was beautiful. I loved that girl... I never loved anyone like that...” talking calmer, even though he was rambling, he sat back down and continues, “I stayed knowing she loved someone else. I’d hoped my love, would win out.” he spoke again with anger, then adds “His father was” yelling quite madly “Simon Drake!” “How did you discover that?“ Adelaide asked. “I’ve always known.“ he confesses. “You discovered on his 1st birthday that he wasn’t your son correct?“ Adelaide asked. As he started to snicker he says “Finding out my son wasn’t even my son, was bad enough, but to lose him to Simon Drake” standing up again and fixing his tie he adds “was fucking unbelievable. My son and I were the best of friends when he was little. I never cared that he was Simon’s.” he said filled with emotions. “Did, Simon, know Nicolas was his son?” MacDonnell asked. “No, I made Natalie promise to never tell him or Nicolas” he said. “She was okay with this? I find that hard to believe, that she just kept that from him and her son.” Adelaide said. “Well, she did!” he said with a evil grin. “Then sometime around his thirteen birthday, that all changed.” he said heated. “You being close?“ MacDonnell asked.

Nodding his head, Mac Donnell, then added, “What happen that changed it all, Nathan?” MacDonnell asked.

“Nathaniel, if you don’t mind... I cheated on his mother. He never got over that. He hated me from that time on. I left the house for about a year, during that time he got very close to Simon. I feared that, Nicolas, would listen to Simon, when it came to deciding his trust. I simply handed Simon all my power to ‘Watson Publications’ and that was something I had to prevent.“ he creepily said, then adds “at any cost. ”

Motioning to Adelaide, MacDonnell stays up. As she walks behind Mr. Watson she says,” stand up Mr. Watson, your under arrest” pulling his arm behind him she places cuffs on him, then she continues “for the murders of Nicolas Watson and Victor Newcastle.”

“It was worth it. All of it.” Nathaniel psychotically says with lasciviousness grin. “You have the right an attorney...” she says as her voice fades out as she leads him out of the room.