Shield Of Justice

Rebecca took a deep breath and nodded, relief washing through her. "What did he say?"

Watts shrugged. "This dame--excuse methis doctor--is one cool cookie. She insisted on clearing the tape of `unrelated messages before shed let me hear it. She should be ready for us now."

"Thanks, Watts," she said as she pushed the door open.

Catherine was seated in front of a small desk with the tape recorder before her. She seemed lost in thought.

"Catherine," Rebecca called softly.

Catherine turned at the sound of her voice, and a faint smile flickered across her fine features. "Im glad youre back."

"Im sorry I wasnt hear when he called," Rebecca began.

Catherine silenced her. "It doesnt matter--youre here now. Shall we go over this?"

Watts shuffled in behind Rebecca and sat on the couch across the room, his notebook on his knee. Rebecca walked to the window and looked out into the night sky. She didnt want to be facing Catherine when she heard this. She didnt trust herself enough.

"Go ahead."

Rebecca prepared herself, knowing that she must forget that it was Catherine this madman had chosen to call. She had to be focused, searching for any clue to his identity. Still, she started suddenly when she heard Catherines voice on the tape:

Catherine:Hello?

Voice:Im so glad I found you home.

Catherine:Im sorry, whos calling please?

Voice:You know me, Doctor. Did you get my flowers?

Catherine:Yes. Why did you send them?

Voice:Because I wanted you to know that youre special to me.

Catherine:Why is that?

Voice:Because I feel as if you understand me. I know that you can appreciate the things Ive accomplished.

Catherine:What things are they?

Voice:You knowwith the girls. When I fucked them. I was good with themtheyd never had it so good before. I took a long time with them, too. I didnt just fuck and come, I let them feel me for a long time. Do you know how that feels, Doctorto be fucked for a long time? Is that how you like it? Id like to fuck you like that right now.

Catherine:Tell me about the girls. How did you pick them?

Voice:Its not hard. Theyre everywhere, just waiting for me to show them how good it can be. Sometimes I just wait for them to come to me.

Catherine:Where do you wait?

Voice:They think they know wherethe police. But they dont know anything. The next time it will be very special. I feel powerful, my cock is powerful. Maybe next time youd like to feel it, Doctor. Would you like to feel my long hard cock pushing into youwould you?

Catherine:How will I recognize you?

Voice:Youll know, Doctor. It wont be long.

"Jesus Christ," Watts breathed as the tape clicked off. "What a fucking nutcase."

"Not exactly a clinical diagnosis, Detective, but fairly accurate," Catherine replied grimly. Rebecca had not spoken, and Catherine wanted desperately to go to her. She could see from across the room that Rebeccas spine was rigid and the hand that rested against the window frame was clenched into a fist.

At last Rebecca turned, keeping her gaze away from Catherine. "Did we get a trace?"

Watts shook his head. "Just under the wire--hes smart, this one."

Rebecca nodded, her face a careful blank. "Double the patrols through the neighborhood, and put a man on the street across from Catherines office and at each entrance to the hospital.

"Rebecca" Catherine began.

"Do it, Watts." She turned to Catherine, her eyes simmering with repressed anger and the revulsion she had felt as she listened to that quiet, disembodied voice on the tape. She could envision his hands on Catherines skin, forcing her down, violating her. His words were the only violation of this woman she would allow. Nothing, not even Catherines professional responsibilities, would change her mind. If Catherine hated her for it, thats the way it would have to be. She would not give this maniac any opportunity to harm Catherine. She was too precious for Rebecca to risk for a moment. "Hes changed his M.O., Watts--hes got a specific target now. This is where hell come. Keep up the extra patrols in the park. Ive got the prostitutes alerted if he shows there. Sooner or later hell come after Catherine."And when he does, Ill kill the bastard.

Watts heaved himself to his feet. "Right. Ill meet you at the hospital in the morning."

"Ill need to see Janet Ryan in the morning," Rebecca stated after Watts left. She still had not looked directly at Catherine. She was afraid if she did she would lose what little control she had left. She trembled inwardly at the thought that any harm might come to her. Catherine had awakened a need in her which Rebecca had buried for far too long. With the undemanding acceptance of her body and her heart, Catherine brought Rebecca face to face with the loneliness of the half-life she had been leading. Rebecca did not want to return to that life, and it was Catherine she needed in order to go forward.

"Ill want to be there when you question her," Catherine stated quietly.

"All right."

"Is there no other way?"

"No. Its not a random victim any longer, Catherine. Itsyouhe wants now."

Catherine looked into Rebeccas determined face and knew there could be no other way. She held out her hand, saying, "I need you to hold me, darling."

Rebecca was across the room in an instant, gathering her close.I will not let him hurt you!

Chapter Twenty-Five

Rebecca awakened with Catherine enfolded in her arms. The sky outside was just beginning to lighten with the dawn. She gloried in the sensations of Catherine -- her warm flesh beneath Rebeccas hands, the whisper of her breath against Rebeccas skin, the steady rhythm of her heartbeat. Rebeccas lips found the soft skin at the base of Catherines throat as her hands began a gentle exploration of her body. She traced the curve of breast, the arch of hip, the slope of firm thigh -- all the planes that fused to form the wonder that was Catherine.

Catherines back arched and she pressed herself even closer to Rebecca, whispering urgently, "Do you know what youre doing to me? Im on fire."

Rebecca smiled as she fitted the length of her body to Catherines. She was rewarded with a soft groan from the woman beneath her, and suddenly Rebeccas body answered with an urgency that left her breathless. Her head grew light as every nerve in her body burned downward into a single pounding point between her legs. Then Catherines hands were upon her, stroking through her wetness, teasing her into full distention, playing her body like a sensitive instrument. Rebecca closed her eyes tightly, willing herself not to come. She caught one swollen nipple lightly between her teeth, groaning in satisfaction at Catherines swift gasp of pleasure. She tried to concentrate on the heat and softness of Catherines skin, and to ignore the pressure building in her clitoris as Catherine rolled it gently under her fingers. She was moaning now, barely able to think, her hands clutching Catherines shoulders as her hips began to thrust against Catherines hand.Not yet, not yet, not yet,she chanted silently, gritting her teeth, each second a sweet agony as the pressure in her belly built to overflowing.

"Oh!" Rebecca cried, shuddering, as Catherine pressed harder along the length of her clitoris. She couldnt hold it. The spasms started at the base and twisted outward, causing her to jerk in Catherines arms. When she cried out her release, she was unaware of the tears that coursed down her face.

Catherine held her, gentling her with loving caresses. "Its all right, darling. Im here. Oh, god, Rebecca, I love you!" She continued her soft words and soothing strokes until they both slipped into peaceful, satisfied sleep.

**********

The woman who stood across the room from her did not seem like the tender lover who had cried in her arms just hours ago, yet Catherine knew that she was. That side of Rebecca, the vulnerable, all too human side, disappeared when she buckled on her holster and clipped her detectives shield to her belt. As formidable and aloof as she appeared now, Catherine loved this part of Rebecca as well. What they shared in private was precious to her, because it was a part of herself that Rebecca kept hidden from the world. But Catherine admired and respected her for the other woman she was as well -- the tough street cop with a will of iron and a core of steel. Her tender warrior with the fragile heart.

Rebecca looked up to find Catherines eyes upon her, and she blushed slightly. She was both pleased by the appreciative look on Catherines face and embarrassed by the scrutiny. Nevertheless, she warmed inwardly to the attention from this composed, gracefully beautiful woman.

Clearing her throat, Rebecca said, "I know it will be difficult for you to have me around all day, but I just cant take any chances. Hes becoming unpredictable, and theres no way to anticipate his behavior. Im sorry."

"Dont be," Catherine replied, kissing Rebecca quickly as she reached for her briefcase. "I can think of much worse things than having you around all day. And I do know that youre doing what needs to be done. I appreciate it."

**********

Janet Ryan was sitting in a chair by the window when Catherine and Rebecca entered. The bruises on her face were fading, but she still appeared fragile physically. She smiled a greeting at Catherine and looked hesitantly at Rebecca.

Rebecca sat beside her in a worn armchair.

"Do you remember me, Janet? Im Detective Frye. I spoke with you before." When Janet nodded, Rebecca continued. "I have more questions to ask you. Im want you to tell me again everything you did on the day of the assault. Everything you can remember -- even if it doesnt seem at all important. Start with when you woke up."

"I overslept," Janet began uncertainly. "I usually run in the mornings and then take the train to work. I was rushed that morning, so I decided to drive. I remember working. Nothing unusual happened. I took OHara Drive home. The sun was still out and there were boats on the river. It seemed so peaceful I decided to stop. I parked and began to walk down to the water." She stopped suddenly, a fine sheen of sweat glistening on her pale face.

Rebecca tried not to appear anxious. Janet was speaking in a low monotone and her eyes were slightly unfocused. Her memory for the events surrounding the rape was clearly improving. Rebecca desperately needed for her to remember.

"Youre doing wonderfully, Janet," Catherine said softly. "Tell us about walking down to the water."

"It smelled like spring. There was no one around. I felt so peaceful. Then, I heard something, a scream!" Once again she stopped abruptly. This time she was visibly agitated. Her hands trembled and her breath came in quick gasps. Catherine reached out and lightly rested her hand on Janets arm.

"Youre all right, Janet, you are safe here with us. Can you tell me what is frightening you?"

"There was a man! He was doing something to the woman on the ground! I ran toward him, screaming at him to stop!" Janet looked wildly about the room, her gaze fixing on Catherines face. "Oh, Dr. Rawlings! I cant remember! I just cant remember any more!"

"Thats all right, Janet, youve done beautifully. Really. Ill speak with you again tomorrow. It wont be long now before we can talk about sending you home."

Catherine stood and motioned to Rebecca to follow.

"Thats as much as youre going to get for today, Rebecca. Sheisremembering, but it will take more time."

"What about trying hypnosis or drugs?"

"Its possible that either method might help spark further recollections, but Im concerned that forcing the issue will be harmful to Janet in the long run. Her memory will return when her mind is healed enough to deal with what she experienced."

"Is that doctor talk for `no?" Rebecca asked.

"Youre learning, Detective," Catherine laughed. "Was it helpful for you at all?"

Rebecca shrugged in exasperation. "I cant help feeling that theres something there and Im just not getting it. Three times this guy rapes and murders someone in a fairly well-populated area of the park, and no one sees him coming or going. Hes like the invisible man."

The sound of Catherines name over the loudspeaker interrupted them. Rebecca was reviewing her notes from her first interrogation of Janet Ryan when Catherine motioned to her to pick up the extension line.

"Im so glad I found you in, Dr. Rawlings."

Rebecca recoiled slightly when she recognized the same smooth voice from the tape of the previous night. She swore under her breath in utter frustration. He seemed to be able to get to Catherine despite all her efforts to prevent it. Rebecca felt powerless to shield her lover from this invasion. All her training, all that shewas, seemed inadequate to protect the one person who meant more to her than any other. She forced herself to remain silent as she listened.

"Why are you calling?" Catherine asked, her eyes on Rebecca.

"I must see you."

"All right," Catherine answered quickly, ignoring the violent negative gestures from Rebecca. "Come here to the hospital. Ill see you this evening."

Soft laughter. "Oh, Doctor -- I cant do that. I want this meeting to be private and romantic. I wantyouto meetmetonight. Ill tell you where."

Catherine looked quickly to Rebecca for direction. Rebecca shook her head "No."

"I want to talk with you. I find you very interesting," Catherine responded, "but Im afraid that I cant meet you tonight. Wont you tell me your name so that I can reach you, too?"

"Good try, Doctor," he said, his voice suddenly harsh. "The next time I talk to you, youll be ready to do whatever I ask."

"Wait" Catherine cried as he broke the connection. She settled the receiver slowly into the cradle and stared at Rebecca, who hurried to her side. "I didnt handle that very well, did I?"

Rebecca covered Catherines hand with her own. "You were fine. You had to tell him no."

"Perhaps I should meet him," Catherine mused. "I might be able to talk him into surrendering."

Rebeccas eyes flashed and her fingers tightened on Catherines arm. "There is no way Im going to let this guy anywhere near you. Dont even think about it; its not going to happen. Let me call this in, then lets go home. Youre safer there than here where anyone could walk in unnoticed."

Catherine nodded, her thoughts elsewhere.

Chapter Twenty-Six

The call came at a little after twoA.M. Rebecca was awakened from an uneasy sleep by the voice of the night dispatcher.

"Sorry to bother you, Frye, but I got a girl on the line who says she has to speak to you and nobody else. I should be so popular."

"What does she want?" Rebecca asked.

"Wont say. Just says her name is Sandy and youd know --"

"Patch her through," Rebecca instructed.

"Frye?" a faint voice questioned.

"Yeah, its me, Sandy. What is it?"

"Anne Marie is missing. She was supposed to meet Claire and Rosie at the diner at one and she never showed."

Rebecca didnt bother with the routine questions; she knew Sandy would never have called if there hadnt been real cause for alarm. "When and where did someone last see her?"

"She was working the corner at Thirteenth and Comac, about eleven-thirty."

"Ill be there in twenty minutes. In the mean time, try to find anyone who saw her with a john tonight. Ill find you. And Sandy-- get the girls off the streets." As Rebecca rose from the bed, Catherine sat up, pulling the sheet up around her bare breasts.

"What is it?" Catherine asked.

Rebecca pulled her shoulder rig over a black turtleneck sweater and reached for her jacket.

"Probably nothing."

For some reason, Rebecca couldnt tell her of the dread that descended when she heard Sandys voice. She had a bad feeling, and over the years she had come to trust these premonitions. Shewantedto tell Catherine; she knew Catherine was waiting for her to speak, but she had hidden these feelings from everyone for so long that she couldnt put words to them now.

"Ill have someone stay with you until I get back. Please stay here, all right?"

Catherine nodded. She knew Rebecca was struggling to bridge the distance between them, and she knew it would not be an easy victory. Knowing, however, did not make it easier. Catherine hoped she would have the strength and patience to wait for Rebecca to trust her.

"Please be careful. Ill be here when you get back," was all Catherine said.

Rebecca turned to look back from the bedroom door and found Catherines calm gaze upon her. It was a look of tenderness and caring that she would carry with her into the night.

"Thank you."

**********

Rebecca found Watts on the landing outside a numberless door in a nondescript hotel in the tenderloin. Their routine checks of all the establishments which provided rooms for prostitutes to frequent had paid off. The night manager of this one thought the last girl to use the room on the second floor hadnt come down. However, he was much too involved with a bottle of thunderbird to remember who she went upstairs with or when the john might have left. When Watts checked the room, he knew he had found Rebeccas missing girl.

"Looks like its our boy again," he said as Rebecca approached. His characteristic nonchalance was absent, and if Rebecca didnt consider it impossible, she would have thought he was upset.

"Dead?"

"Yeah."

Rebecca steeled herself against the anger -- at the senseless waste, at her own inability to put an end to it. Silently, she pushed the door open.

A glance confirmed Wattss impression that they were dealing with the same perpetrator. The victim, young and slender, was lying face down on the thin mattress, a pair of blue nylon shorts pulled down around her ankles. It looked like she had died from a blow to the head. Her street clothes were neatly folded on the cane chair that stood forlornly against a bare, water-stained wall.

"Be sure to check if all her clothes are here after the crime scene team finishes," she said. Watts grunted and made a note in his ever present tattered notebook. "Did you get anything at all from the guy downstairs?"

"No, and I dont think we will. He remembers handing her the key. He didnt see the john go in or out. Didnt hear anything either."

"Well have to round up all the prostitutes for questioning. Chances are this guy has been around for a while and maybe started getting rougher as hes come unglued. And well need to find out who she was with tonight. Someone may have seen her with him."

"Ill get some uniforms on it," Watts responded.

The homicide team and the lab van were arriving as Rebecca and Watts left the building. Rebecca turned at the sound of her name and saw Sandy approaching. She steeled herself for what she had to do.

"I want you to come upstairs with me and see if you recognize this girl," Rebecca said before Sandy could say anything. Sandys eyes widened, but she didnt protest. Rebecca took her through the crowd of police who were pushing in and out of the room and led her to the bed.

Sandy stared motionlessly at the figure for a long moment, then turned away.

"Thats Anne Marie," she said, no hint of emotion in her voice.

Rebecca nodded and took her by the arm. "Come on, lets get out of here." She felt Sandy begin to tremble as they descended the stairs, the delayed reaction that Rebecca had expected was setting in. By the time they stepped outside, Sandy was sobbing. Rebecca gently put her arms around the shaking girl and held her close. Watts watched expressionlessly.

"Im sorry, Sandy," Rebecca whispered, rocking her gently as she cried. "Im sorry."

"Never thought Id be getting this close to a cop," Sandy said, wiping her eyes and straightening her shoulders. "Especially a lady cop." She looked into Rebeccas eyes, read the undisguised pain in them, and said softly, "Thanks."

Sandy promised to talk to all of Anne Maries friends for any clue as to who she might have picked up earlier that night. She would call Rebecca at the station with any news.

Rebecca and Watts headed in to begin the long process of writing up the report and reviewing the entire case, looking for some small item they might have overlooked. Rebecca drove silently, struggling to suppress the depression that threatened to immobilize her. She didnt think she could stand to see one more woman brutalized by this shadow of a man who continued to elude them. Watts was uncharacteristically silent as well.

They had barely begun their paperwork when the Captain strode through the squad room and gestured for them to follow him to his office. Rebecca glanced at the plain clock on the wall. It must be something big to get the Captain in here at five am.

"We need a break on this case," he said without preamble. He waved them to chairs and loosened the collar of his immaculate white shirt. The snowy collar contrasted dramatically with his deep mahogany skin tones. Regardless of the time, or the level of tension in his office, Captain John Henry was always the picture of composure. "When the media makes the connection between these dead prostitutes and the River Drive rapes, theyre going to have a field day with us. We have one -- andonlyone -- thing going for us at this point, and thats the psychiatrist hes contacted. Weve got to use her, and soon."

Rebeccas throat constricted and her head pounded. This was the last thing she expected, although if she had been thinking clearly she would have anticipated it. Where Catherine was concerned, she seemed to be incapable of thinking like a cop.

"No, sir -- you cant," she began, only to be interrupted by Watts.

"Uh, what she means, Captain, is that the shrinks probably a long shot. You know, a red herring kind of thing. Hes not going to be stupid enough to come after someone we know about."

Henry looked at Rebecca strangely, but directed his reply to Watts. "Thats not what our experts tell me. They say that hes delusional, feels all-powerful. Hes arrogant enough to believe that he can snatch someone right out from under us and get away with it."

"Well, its not going to be her," Rebecca said, finally finding her voice. "Im sorry, sir, but I just cant allow it."

Watts gave a small sigh and gazed out the window, waiting for the axe to fall. All he heard was the Captains voice, oddly soft.

"Detective, youve had more to deal with lately than any one person should, and youve done a fine job. Now let me do mine."

"Not with Catherine, Captain. Please."Ill beg if I have to.

The big man regarded her with compassionate eyes, sensing her fear and believing he understood why. He wasnt sure what he would do in her position, but he knew what he had to do in his.

"Its not up to you any longer, Frye. Lets let the doctor decide."

Rebecca began to protest again when she saw his gaze diverted to the squad room behind her. With a sense of dread she turned to see Catherine entering in the company of one of the night patrolman. She looked fresh in a cream colored silk suit, her face, as always, composed and elegant. Rebecca rose, more vehement words on her tongue, when Watts quickly stepped between her and her superior, whispering urgently, "Not now, Frye. Its not going to help you any. And youre no use to the lady if the Cap pulls you off the case."

Rebecca slowly settled back into the chair, waiting in stunned silence while Catherine was brought in and introduced to Captain Henry.

Catherine looked at Rebecca as she took the only other chair in the room. This was going to be harder than she expected. Rebecca looked shell-shocked. Catherine knew that physically Rebecca was nearing the end of her reserves. Adding this kind of emotional strain might be more than even Rebecca could handle. Still, she didnt feel she had any choice. She would have to hope that she could convince Rebecca that she would be fine, a fact she herself was not entirely sure of.

"Were hoping that this killer will contact you again soon, Doctor," Henry began.

"He already has. He called at three am"

"Bastard," Rebecca swore.

"He told me he had murdered a girl tonight, a prostitute. Is that true?"

The Captain looked at Rebecca for confirmation.

"Were not sure yet," Rebecca responded, her face a mask.

Catherine contemplated Rebeccas impassive features, then said softly, "The truth, please, Rebecca."

"Yes," Rebecca replied, her ice-blue eyes meeting Catherines deep emerald ones. She saw the flash of pain, quickly hidden.

"He saidIkilled her -- because I wouldnt meet with him as he had asked."

"Thats bullshit, pardon me, maam," Watts interjected. "Nobody killed that girl except the person who crushed her skull, and it sure wasnt you."

"He said that he would kill one woman for every day I delayed."

"Catherine, you cant let him make you feel responsible," Rebecca said, her voice harsh with feeling. "Its just a trick to trap you into seeing him. Hes deadly for gods sake! I wont let you do it!"

Catherine saw Watts grimace and realized that Rebecca could be jeopardizing her entire career out of fear for her. She understood it. Shed do anything to keep Rebecca from harm; but she couldnt let Rebecca risk everything she had sacrificed so much for.

"Im afraid you have nothing to say about it, Detective. What I choose to do about this situation is none of your concern." She turned her back on Rebeccas stunned face and said to Henry, "What is it you have in mind, Captain?"

"When he calls again, I want you to agree to meet him. Well attach a recording device to you, and well know where you are every second. Youll be quite safe."

"Hes lying, Catherine. A million things can go wrong when youre wearing a wire, and we wont be able to put a tail on you because it might scare him off. Youll be alone with him, with plenty of time for him to kill you before we could reach you," Rebecca said flatly. She met the astonished eyes of her superior officer without flinching. "Tell her, Captain, that youre asking her to risk her life."

Catherine reached a slim-fingered hand out and rested it protectively on Rebeccas clenched fist. "Its all right," she said in a soft, soothing voice. "I know. But this is something I must do. Please, Rebecca, I need you now. Please trust me."

Rebeccas fist slowly relaxed and her fingers entwined with Catherines. Her voice was steady when she stated, "If shes going to do this, it will be my show. Ill call the shots all the way."

Captain Henry regarded the two women before him -- one a stranger he felt he knew, one a cop he was just beginning to understand.

He took a deep breath and nodded. "Youve got it, Frye."

Chapter Twenty-Seven

They waited in tense silence. Catherines phone had been patched in to a line at the station, and she, Rebecca, Watts and several other detectives were crowded into a small room filled with stale smoke and littered with half-filled paper cups, soda cans and fast food wrappers. Catherine had no chance to speak with Rebecca privately. Rebecca had been on the phone for much of the first hour, demanding surveillance equipment, requesting particular officers for special assignment, setting the wheels in motion to create an enormous web designed to trap her prey. To the other cops in the room she appeared focused and self-contained. They were used to her calm under pressure and took no notice of the tension betrayed in the brusque tenor of her voice and clenched muscles of her jaw.

Catherine, however, was watching her carefully. Rebecca had shed her jacket and leaned against the desk, one slender hip up on the edge, her sleeves rolled up to reveal tanned, well-muscled forearms. Her height and leanness were accentuated by the fine tailoring of her shirt and gabardine trousers. The only interruption in the elegant line of her form was the slash of leather across her back which secured her weapon to her side. Catherine had never felt so far from her, nor more captivated by her. Here was the strength that defined Rebeccas essence -- her dedication, determination, and ability fused to produce the exceptional professional she was.

Catherine was too sensitive to the nuances of behavior to miss the signs of agitation and stress that Rebecca thought she was hiding. Catherine wanted desperately to touch her, talk to her, make some connection with her-- anything to let her know how much she cared, and how much Rebecca meant to her. She was continually frustrated in her attempts to draw Rebecca aside by the arrival of yet another person who had to see Rebecca or by the constant ringing of the phones. When Rebecca glanced her way there was the barest flicker of warmth before her eyes became impenetrable again. Whatever she was feeling toward Catherine, she hid well.

The low level of conversation in the room halted abruptly when the "red" phone rang. That was the phone which was receiving calls forwarded from Catherines home. Twice before it had rung; both were clients. This time even the ring seemed different. Catherine waited for Rebeccas signal, then they both picked up at once.

"Hello?" Catherine said.

Rebecca could detect no nervousness in her voice. Even though she expected it, she still flinched at the next words.

"Hello, Doctor,"the smooth, well-modulated voice said."Did they find the girl yet?"

"What girl?"

"The one I left them. The one I killed for you."

"Yes," Catherine replied at a nod from Rebecca.

"Are you ready to meet me now, or will I have to kill another one tonight?"

"Where?" Catherine answered quickly, no longer looking at Rebecca. She would have to let her instincts guide her now. It was she, after all, he had chosen to contact, and she had the expertise to deal with him. She hoped.

"I cant tell you now, can I? We must keep it a secret a little longer. Drive to the statue of St. Joan in the park. Youll find an envelope under three bricks on the left side. Read the instructions and do as it says. And remember, Doctor, Ill be watching you the entire time, just as I watched the others."

"When?"

"Seven oclock tonight."

The line went dead. Catherine looked to Rebecca, the receiver still gripped in her hand. Rebecca went to the attached tape recorder, pushed rewind, and played the tape for the others in the room. For some it was their first exposure to the sound of his voice.

Watts finally spoke, breaking the tense silence. "It wont play. Theres no way we can stake out the meeting place, because we wont have advance notice of where it is. A wire wont help much if were too far away to get to her in a hurry. Hes got the upper hand, which means that we might lose. Its no good, Frye."

Rebecca studied the disheveled man whose very presence she had resented up until now, and she couldnt help wondering if he had spoken first so that she wouldnt have to. For he was right. And if she had said the same thing, there always would have been some suspicion that she had not acted impartially -- that her judgment had been clouded by her personal involvement in the case. Those who knew her well would never believe it, but, still, her reputation would be tainted. She owed him, and she wasnt sure she liked it.

"Youre right, Watts. Lets send someone out to pick up the note. Maybe theres something in it that will give us a handle on him."

"Wait!" Catherine cried. "You cant do that! If I dont go, hes going to kill again. Believe me, hes serious. Theres every possibility that he wont harm me. Im special to him -- he needs me to share his victories with. Im his audience. And theres a chance I might be able to convince him to surrender himself to me!"

"Can you guarantee that he wont harm you, Dr. Rawlings?" Rebecca asked pointedly.

"No, I cant. But I can guarantee hell harm someone else if Im not there to pick up his note at seven oclock. There must be a way!"

"There is," Captain Henry said from the doorway, where he had been standing quietly. "Its almost three now. We have time to fill the park with undercover people between now and seven. Well put a wire on you and a tracer on your car so we know where youre going at all times. And well put one detail behind you so someone can follow on foot when you get out of your car."

"Its loose, Captain," Rebecca interjected, her voice steady. "She might go where we dont have any people, or the tail might lose her. Its too risky."

"I want to do it," Catherine said, pleading with her eyes for Rebeccas support. Rebecca kept her gaze locked on Henry.

"We go," he said. "I want everyone in the command room in ten minutes for a briefing."

He left behind a room of stunned faces. Every person there knew Rebecca Frye had put her career on the line by openly defying her superior officer, who had ,in turn, put his career on the line by okaying an operation which was more than a little risky. Once again, Watts recovered first.

"Lets clear out. We got ten minutes to piss before things really heat up."

He succeeded in emptying the room. Catherine found herself alone with Rebecca for the first time in eighteen hours.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

"Is there any way to make you see reason?" Rebecca asked, her voice heavy with defeat.

"No."

"For gods sake, Catherine,why?"

"Because hes got to be stopped, Rebecca. And this may be the only chance!" Catherines heart ached at the desolation in Rebeccas eyes. She did not want to be the cause of the anguish which was so clear to her. "Im not a fool, darling, and believe me, I have no desire to be a hero. But, surely you must see that I am the only one who can draw him out."

"What I see," Rebecca replied angrily, "is you as his next victim!" Even as she spoke the words, Rebeccas mind rebelled at the thought. How could she survive if Catherine were lost to her now? What reason could she find to go on, living day to day with such emptiness in her heart?

"I couldnt bear it," Rebecca said, her voice breaking.

Catherine went to her, her arms closing around the slender form she was learning to cherish. She pressed her face to Rebeccas chest and said in a muffled voice, "I love you, Rebecca Frye. And I have absolutely no intention of leaving you."

Rebecca closed her eyes, shutting out everything except the nearness of Catherine. Her lips brushed the soft skin of her cheek as her hands gently caressed her. For a moment, all she knew was the rightness of holding Catherine.

Their brief interlude was broken by a sharp knock on the door.

"Captain wants us, Frye," Watts announced, entering after a moment. "He wants to review the operation, get the Doc wired, and start moving people into position."

Rebecca fixed anxious eyes on Catherines calm ones.

"Are you absolutely sure?"

"Yes."

**********

The hours passed all too quickly. Suddenly it was time for Catherine to drive to the rendezvous site in the heart of the park lands surrounding the river that bisected their city. Rebecca and Watts would follow her. It was Rebeccas intention to follow Catherine on foot and to intercept their quarry as he made contact with Catherine. She reasoned that there were only so many routes he could take into or out of the park, and that he couldnt possibly hope to leave undetected with Catherine in tow. There were officers posted at all the parking areas and at the crossroads which intersected with the Drive. The only time Catherine would be unprotected would be between the time he made contact with her and the time it took for Rebecca to reach her. They estimated that interval to be thirty to sixty seconds, and if it wasnt his intention to kill Catherine immediately, Rebecca would have enough time to close the gap. Rebecca knew full well how slim the margin of safety was; she fervently hoped Catherine did not.

If she was worried, Catherine Rawlings did not appear so to the room full of police officers. She paid little attention to the logistics and strategies they were planning. Her mind was already fashioning her own plan of action. She wanted to be emotionally prepared to meet the man who most people would consider hopelessly insane. Her training had taught her to reserve such judgment until she had first-hand experience. In this case, she had no idea what form that experience might take, and she knew that being caught off guard could mean her life. Nevertheless, there was a part of her that looked forward to the opportunity that few professionals in her position would ever have. She was actually startled when Rebecca came to her and told her it was time to leave.

"Is the wire comfortable," Rebecca asked as they headed down the corridor to the rear exit.

Catherine smiled. "I wont be sorry to take it off."

"You know Ill be right behind you all the time. If you sense anything at all -- a stranger approaching who looks odd, a noise that seems out of place, just whisper. Ill have a receiver. Ill hear you."

When they reached the car, Catherine turned to Rebecca. "I know youll be there. Thats what makes me feel safe. Dont take any chances. I dont think hell hurt me, at least not right away. He wants to talk to me, to boast of his actions. He doesnt want to kill me. And I dont want you to get hurt."

"I hope youre right," Rebecca said grimly.But Im not giving him the chance to change his mind. As soon as he shows, its over.

Watts was already sitting in the car that would follow Catherine. Rebecca motioned that she would be right there. Now that she was faced with actually letting Catherine go, she wasnt sure she could do it. Every image she had suppressed of his victims flooded her consciousness, and every one had Catherines face. Her arm encircled Catherines waist, as if she could shield her from the unknown with the force of her presence.

"Catherine, I" She wanted to sayI love you, but the words were blocked by the terror of losing her.

Catherine read the mute agony in her lovers face, and softly disengaged herself from Rebeccas embrace. "You can tell me later, darling. Be safe." Quickly she slid into the car and started the engine. She was afraid that if she looked at Rebecca again, her own resolve would weaken. She needed all her strength to do what she felt must be done.

Watts pulled the unmarked police car up beside Rebecca and pushed the passenger door open. "Get in, Frye. Its time to earn our pay. And to nail this prick."

Rebeccas mind held Catherines image with the clarity of a photograph. She felt her fear turn to anger, and her anger focus into a raging fire in the depths of her soul. This was one woman he would not touch. His reign of terror over the women of this city was over. Rebecca took a deep breath, locked her eyes on Catherines car ahead of them, and nodded.

"Right. Lets do it."

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Catherine made steady progress across town in the late rush hour traffic. She searched several times for signs of Rebecca and Watts behind her, but she could see no trace of them. She put it from her mind, reassuring herself with the knowledge that theywerethere somewhere. She was surprised to find her hands were shaking as she lifted the damp envelope from its hiding place. She brought it to the car, as she had been directed, before opening it.

"Walk north on the bike path along the water," she read out loud, wondering if the police could really hear her. She reread the single sentence several times, thinking it was odd that he had chosen that path. The hard-packed dirt path had been nearly abandoned after a wider, paved path had been built nearer to the highway.Of course,she thought, smiling at her own naveté,this route is perfect for someone who doesnt want to be noticed.

Rebecca, however, didnt miss the significance for a second. "Hell," she groaned. "That trail is four miles long and a lot of it is overgrown with brush. He could be anywhere!"

"Well, at least youll have good cover," Watts replied with uncharacteristic optimism.

"There she goes," Rebecca said, reaching for the door handle. She was surprised by Wattss restraining grip on her arm.

"Give her a few minutes, Frye. You know where shes headed. If hes watching and sees you now, the deals off. And I say the lady is safer now than she would be if wedidntknow when he was coming."

Rebecca forced herself to watch Catherines figure blur into the trees at the waters edge before she left the car. Watts would drive slowly along the road that meandered through the park, trying to stay in the same vicinity by the bearings Rebecca transmitted to him by radio. It left Catherine and Rebecca fairly isolated, but it was the best they could do.

"Theres a runner coming this way," Catherines voice announced in her ear, startling Rebecca with its clarity. She couldnt see Catherine, who was several hundred yards ahead of her. The dense foliage near the water made for poor visibility, especially in the rapidly deepening darkness.

"I have contact with her, Watts," Rebecca relayed into her own tiny microphone. "Were about a half mile in along the trail. Nothing yet."

"Hes passing," Catherine continued, a touch of relief in her voice.

Two women runners passed Rebecca from behind. A male cycler followed close thereafter. Rebecca noted his general description, but she didnt see anything suspicious about him. She relayed their general location to Watts again, knowing that he would direct the other officers staked out in the park in tandem with them as much as possible.

"A woman with a dog approaching. Cute dog," Catherine noted.

That, Rebecca knew, would be Diane Thompson and Cleo. Cleo was a narc dog. They had decided to risk putting one officer on Catherines direct route if they could, and the tiny Yorkshire terrier seemed like the perfect cover.

Diane shook her head almost imperceptibly as she passed Rebecca a minute later. "Nothing," she whispered with disappointment.

Rebecca hadnt expected much. Obviously he wasnt going to reveal himself. What she couldnt figure was how he intended to get away, especially with Catherine. Could he be so psychotic he didnt believe they would be following him? He had set this up so well, and this glaring flaw perplexed her.

"There are some fallen trees up ahead," Catherine reported. "Im going to have to go around them."

"No!" Rebecca cried silently, breaking into a run. If Catherine were off the trail, not only was she more vulnerable, she was easier to lose. Seconds later Rebecca heard Catherine gasp and then recognized the harsh voice in her ear that froze her heart.

"Where is the wire? Tell me!"

Rebecca heard the rending of cloth before total silence as Catherines transmitter went dead.

"Jesus, Watts! Hes got her! Move, move!" Rebecca screamed into her mike as she tore up the trail. She saw the downed trees ahead, and slowed as she approached, her gun in hand. Carefully, she stepped off the path toward the water, searching for some sign. They couldnt be far ahead! It was evident from some trampled bushes that he had waited here for her. Rebeccas eye caught a faint flash of color in the grass. She stifled a moan as her fingers closed over one of the cream-colored buttons from Catherines blouse. Moving automatically, the tiny connection to Catherine clenched in her hand, she searched for a trail. Through the trees she could see the ever present scullers on the river. Life went on normally around her, while her own life condensed into the sensation of a tiny button pressed into her palm.

She heard footsteps behind her, and turned, her gun poised. It was Watts.

"What happened?" he said breathlessly.

"He was waiting here, just like we knew he would be. I was only a minute behind, but they seemed to have vanished," Rebecca recounted in a flat, empty voice.

Watts would almost rather she panicked. Right now she looked like a loose grenade with the pin pulled, ready to go off at any second.

"They cant get out of the park, Frye. Thats one thing we did right."

"What if he doesnt take her out of the park? What if he just rapes and murders her, fifty yards from us, just like the others?"

"Too dangerous. Weve got people all over here now. And besides, this guy is not stupid. He got her here for a reason, and it wasnt just to hump her."

Rebecca lunged at him. "Shut your fucking mouth, Watts!" She had her hands on his throat before she realized what she was doing. Just as quickly, she dropped her hands and shook her head to clear it.

"God, I lost it," she said, stepping back. "Im sorry."

Watts regarded her impassively, waving away her apology. Color returned to her face and her eyes grew sharp and intent.

"Theyre not here, Watts. Which means they went somewhere, right?"

Watts nodded in puzzled agreement.

"So where the hell did they go? For that matter, how does he always disappear so easily? They didnt go up that path, Watts, because two of them would have left quite a trail. And they didnt go back past me. So where did they go?"

They both turned at the same time. Towards the water.

"Son of a bitch," Watts said, hurrying after Rebecca. "Are we dumb fucks or what? Its been right in front of our noses the whole time. The goddamned water!"

Their eyes scanned the crew teams and solitary rowers on the river, a sight so familiar it had failed to register in anyones mind.

"Janet Ryan stopped to watch the regatta," Rebecca mused out loud, "and I bet if we checked the dates of the other rapes wed find there was a regatta each time. Perfect cover." She rounded on Watts, her voice sharp with purpose.

"Hes got to be headed for the boathouses! Get the car and follow me. And for Gods sake, keep this quiet. I dont want Catherine to end up in a hostage situation. Let me go ahead on foot. He wont be expecting it. He thinks hes outsmarted us."

"Ill keep a lid on it for as long as I can, Frye. That means Im your only backup."

She met his eyes for a moment and was reassured by their unwavering solidity.

"Thats enough."

Chapter Thirty

The first thing she noticed was the pounding pain in her jaw. The second was the rhythmic sounds of water rushing past. She tried to turn and found herself wedged uncomfortably into a narrow space at the front of some kind of boat.

"Were almost there, Catherine," he said. "May I call you `Catherine?"

She tried to focus on his face in the near darkness. She wanted to put a face to the voice; she needed that to quiet the rising panic that threatened to immobilize her.

"What may I call you?" she asked, her voice sounding odd to her own ears. She ran her tongue experimentally over the inside of her mouth. Swollen, but nothing broken.

"Raymond."

Her heart raced at this small triumph.

"Where are we going, Raymond?"

"To a private place, where no one will disturb us."

"All right."

Catherine made no attempt to sit up. She couldnt go anywhere, and it was pointless to antagonize him. She became acutely aware of the cold wind on her chest and realized her blouse was open. She remembered him tearing it to pull off the tiny microphone wires that had been taped there. He had not touched her breasts. She tentatively reached up to pull the damaged material closed.

"Whats the matter, does your jaw hurt? I didnt want to hit you, but I couldnt let you make any noise."

"My jaw does hurt, and Im cold."

"Youll be warm soon."

She couldnt judge how long she had been in the boat, which she now recognized as a scull. She knew they were moving quickly, and she wondered if Rebecca would find her.

**********

There were fifteen boathouses on the river, some owned by private universities, some city property, and some no longer in use. Rebecca was betting that he would be using one of the half dozen unoccupied structures. If she bet wrong, it could mean Catherines life. It seemed to take forever for her and Watts to get there. Rebecca would have to check the entire perimeter of each house, and possibly the interiors, in the hope of finding Catherine, and she was racing against the clock.

"Take the street side, Watts. Ill take the water side. When I move to the next house, Ill signal you."

"Right."

She melted quickly into the darkness near the water, praying that she would be in time.

**********

"I cant turn the lights on, Catherine, but we have candles. Candles will be nicer, dont you think?"

He was an average looking man, sandy hair, medium height, and a slender build. It was the voice that captured Catherines attention. It had a dreamy quality, almost as if he were reciting well-practiced words. She had heard it before, and it worried her. She had a feeling he was listening to other voices in his head.

"I have to tie your hands, Catherine. You cant be trusted, and I dont want you to spoil anything."

"What might I spoil?"

"I dont want you to move while Im fucking you. You have to pay attention to what Im doing." As he spoke he wrapped her wrists behind her back with nylon cord. She was aware that her breasts were exposed, but he didnt seem to notice. He stepped behind her to pull a tarp over the bench that ran the length of the wall.

"What do you want to show me?" Catherine was desperately casting about for some way to interrupt his thinking. He was obviously playing out a script already written in his mind, and if she couldnt distract him, she had no hope.

"I want to show you how well I can fuck, and how special it is with me. More than with any of the others." He was kneeling beside her now, emptying the contents of a sports bag on the floor. There were several pairs of shorts, more rope, and a .38 caliber revolver.

"Tell me what it will be like."

He stood up abruptly, and pulled her head back roughly by the hair. His face, previously unnaturally calm, was suddenly contorted with rage.

"Ill do much better than tell you,Doctor. Ill show you. And when Im done youll know just how special I am."

**********

Rebecca had about given up hope when she spied the dim flicker of light through the shutters of the last boathouse in the row. She carefully pried one piece of wood off the boarded up window and peered inside. Moving slowly, she raised the radio to her lips.

"Ive got them, Watts. Rear of the last house, first floor. Im going in. I need you now, Watts."

Her voice sounded strangely hollow in his ear. It spooked him.

"Wait for me, Frye! Youll get yourself killed!"

Rebecca didnt hear his message. It wouldnt have changed her mind.

Chapter Thirty-One

"Hello, Catherine," Rebecca said as she stepped into the room. She could barely make out the shapes of objects at the far end of the room, but she could see Catherine and the man who stood beside her quite clearly in the glow of the candles he had placed in a circle around them. He was staring at her, a look of confusion on his face.

"Who is your friend?" Rebecca asked, stepping forward slowly, her jacket unbuttoned, the safety off on her automatic.

"This is Raymond," Catherine answered in a steady voice.She looks so calm!

He moved quickly, stepping behind Catherine and pressing the revolver to her temple.

"You shouldnt have come here," he said. "Now I have to kill her."

"I dont think so," Rebecca said evenly, her eyes on his face. "I wont let you."

"You have no idea who I am. You dont know my power. You cant stop me." He laughed, enjoying himself.

"Youdont know how powerfulIam!" she responded. "Thiswoman is mine. Ive come for her."

"Youre a fool. Ill kill you both."

"You cant kill me," Rebecca said arrogantly, fervently hoping that Watts was in position, and that he could still shoot. She was counting on him to save Catherines life. "Go ahead. Try to shoot me. You wont be able to, you puny pathetic excuse for a man. If youwerea man, you wouldnt have to pull women into the bushes and rape them." Her eyes never left his. "I bet you cant even get it up if theyre looking you in the face. I bet youre afraid to let them see just how weak you really are. You dont have the balls to shoot --"

She rolled left the instant his gun moved from Catherines temple, drawing her own simultaneously. She thought she fired, but the impact of the bullet that tore through her chest pitched her backwards. She never knew if Catherine was safe.

**********

It was unclear whose bullet hit him first, Rebeccas or Watts. Raymond Blake had died instantly, leaving Catherine Rawlings unharmed. Catherine took a leave of absence, stating health reasons. To the casual observer, she would have appeared perfectly healthy as she juggled two shopping bags of groceries and her keys to the door of her brownstone.

She frowned, key in hand, as the door opened.

"Youre not supposed to be up."

"Let me do something," her reluctant patient complained. "Youve been taking care of me for weeks."

"I've been taking care of you because I love you, Rebecca, and I owe you my life."

Rebecca looked uncomfortable, as she always did when Catherine brought up the night in the boathouse.

"No you dont. I was just doing my job."

"It was more than that. We both know it!" Catherine cried in an unusual fit of temper. "You knew you could die protecting me. Did you actuallybelieveI could survive it if you traded your life for mine?"

Rebecca looked away. "I dont know. I only knew I couldnt survive without you."

Catherines anger dissipated as quickly as it had come, the product of her fear. She slipped her arms around Rebeccas waist, careful not to disrupt the bandages covering the healing wound on her chest.

"Rebecca," she said softly, welcoming the desire Rebeccas nearness kindled in her. "I love you. I want the chance to love you for a long time. I want you to promise me that Ill have that chance. If you cant do that for me, I wont be able to bear watching you walk out my door. Ill die inside each time you leave me."

Rebeccas arms tightened around her, so many words she wanted to say choking her. "I promise."

Catherine clung to the words, knowing it was the most important promise Rebecca would ever make.

Chapter Thirty-Two

Catherine glanced at the clock as Hazel Holcomb came through the cafeteria line. It was exactly seven-fifteen am. Hazel joined her, carefully arranging her juice and danish on the table before she began to speak.

"Are you ready to come back?" Hazel asked without preamble. It was Catherines first full day at the medical center in three months.

"I think so. Ive missed it."

Hazel studied Catherine silently. She knew very well that Catherine had something on her mind. Whether Catherine knew that was another story. Hazel sipped her coffee and waited.

"Rebecca goes back to work today, too," Catherine added casually.

"Is she anxious to return?"

Catherines face lit up with a fond smile. "Cant wait."

"Areyouready for her to go back to work?"

"Terrified."

"Well," Hazel said in a satisfied voice, "now were getting somewhere."

She watched the play of emotions across Catherines face. Some kind of internal struggle was clearly raging. Knowing how long Catherine had waited to allow anyone into her heart, Hazel could only imagine what the loss of that love could cost. "You could have chosen someone in a slightly less dangerous line of work, you know. Goodness knows, there are plenty of women around here who have been interested."

"I didnt fall in love with Rebecca because shes a cop," Catherine answered defensively.

"Didnt you?" Hazel probed.

"No! I fell in love with her because ofwhoshe is, notwhatshe is!"

"Is there a difference?"

Catherine stared at her friend and mentor. Images of Rebecca passed through her mind. Rebecca leaning against a desk, cool and controlled, an intensity about her that aroused Catherine; Rebecca collapsing against her after orgasm, shedding tears for all the pain she couldnt allow herself to feel at other times; Rebecca calmly staring into the eyes of Raymond Blake, knowing she would kill him.

"Ive never wanted to admit that," she replied, a little embarrassed.

Hazel looked surprised. "Why, for heavens sake?"

"Because it means shes never going to stop being a cop," Catherine said quietly. Her eyes, filled with sudden pain, met Hazels. "And Im not sure I can live with it." She didnt want to go on, afraid of where her words might lead.

"Talk to me about this," Hazel said gently. She sensed Catherines fear, but she trusted her strength as well. Catherines need to express these fears was the real reason she was here.

"That night in the boathouse Rebecca knew she might die, and she deliberately provoked him," Catherine began, her voice low and tormented. "She looked right into his face and she never wavered. Isawhim shoot her, Hazel. I saw her body blown into the air; I saw her blood splash against the wall. She was lying in a pool of blood, completely still, and I thought she was dead. And do you know how I felt? Empty. My mind felt empty; my soul felt empty. If she dies, Hazel, Im afraid Ill feel like that for the rest of my life!"

"Does she know how you feel?"

Catherine shook her head. "No. And I dont want her to. Being a cop is too much a part of her. Shed die if shedidntdo this."

Hazel nodded, always having known that Catherine would love without reservation when she finally allowed herself to love at all.

"Then youre going to have to love her enough to let her go each and every day," Hazel said.

Catherine stared for a long time at the cup clenched in her hands, feeling the sadness of acceptance. When she raised her eyes to Hazels, they were calm.

"I dont have any choice. I wont give her up."

**********

Rebecca settled into the seat next to Watts, content to let him drive, happy to be back in a world she knew. Watts hadnt said much since the Captain announced that he had assigned them as permanent partners. Neither of them had protested. There was something Rebecca wanted to say, but, as usual, she was having trouble finding the words. Watts was strangely quiet as well.

"I got a kid, you know," he finally said, staring straight ahead.

"Oh yeah?" Rebecca responded noncommittally.

"A son. Hes a lawyer. He lives with another guy. Theyve been together ten years."

Rebecca too stared straight out through the windshield. "I never thanked you for that night we nailed Blake. I counted on you to save Catherines life. You came through for me."

He shrugged. "I couldnt let him waste the doc. Guess I got a soft spot for dames. But you know, Frye, you cant let yourself take em too seriously. Youre finished if you do."

Rebecca smiled to herself, deciding not to be offended.

"Shes something special, Watts."

Watts shook his head in mock sadness. "Shit, Frye, youre already a goner."

They laughed and drove off together, eager for whatever the streets might hold.

The End