Double Jeopardy Chapter 6 (standard:mystery, 8702 words) [6/13] show all parts
Author: Sarah Spenser	Added: Jul 03 2005	Views/Reads: 2417/1860	Part vote: 0.00 (0 votes)
This chapter picks up from where Allie tells Connor she witnessed a murder!

Click here to read the first 75 lines of the story

was in the middle of asking Allison what kind of gun the killer used 
when Connor began to pound on the door. “What the hell do you want?” 
Charlie asked exasperated swinging the door open. Allison looked 
exhausted and Connor worried about her. He glanced at her again, and 
decided that the questioning stopped now. “This ends now, Charlie!” 
“We're not through!” “Can't you see she's exhausted? And she's 
pregnant! She doesn't need to be treated like a common criminal! She 
witnessed a murder cut her some slack!” “We're not finished, Mr. 
Cassidy. I suggest you leave!” “I suggest you shove it up your ass! You 
should be ashamed of yourself!” “Connor, please help me! Get me out of 
here! I've told you everything, Charlie.” Allison said weakly. “I don't 
think you have! You know more than you're saying! Now start talking!” 
Charlie pounded his fist  against the desk  causing Allison to jump. 
“This is over! come on, Allie!” “You leave now and you won't have a job 
to come back to!” “Good! You should be ashamed of yourself! Treating a 
pregnant woman like a common criminal! And interrogating her for over 
an hour! Who the hell do you think you are? You know what? I wouldn't 
work for an arrogant asshole like you anyway! You want to fire me? Just 
go ahead and try! Any man can see that Allison is exhausted and needs a 
break.” Connor gently took Allie's hand and led her from the room. 
Charlie screamed at them the entire time. “You won't get away with 
this! I swear I will make your life a living hell, Cassidy!” 

Once home, Connor and Allison ordered in. While they waited for the food
to arrive, they talked about their encounter with Charlie. “Was he 
relentless?” Connor asked taking hold of her hand. “Yes, he was awful. 
He kept saying that I was leaving something out. He kept telling me 
that I wasn't being honest with him. Connor, I told him everything I 
saw.” “I know you did.” “I'm not hiding anything. I wasn't close enough 
to see what kind of gun the killer had.” “I believe you, sweetness.” He 
said kissing her lightly. “Thanks, my love.” She returned his kiss with 
a passionate one of her own. “I'm sorry he wouldn't let me stay with 
you. I wanted to.” “I know. He was just being arrogant. But, Connor you 
could be out of a job! You took a big risk telling him off like that.” 
“I don't care, Allie. No one's going to treat you that way.” The 
doorbell rang interrupting their conversation. They sat down to enjoy 
the pepper and onion pizza they had ordered. Allison was grateful that 
Connor had rescued her from that brutal interrogation, and looked at 
him adoringly as they ate dinner. 

By Monday, news of Slim's death and that Allison had witnessed his
murder was all over the front page of the local paper. Instead of 
reporting on the news, Allison was the featured story. Columnist Ida 
Freewell wrote a scathing article saying that Allison was exacting 
revenge on Chad and concocted witnessing Slim's murder. Connor read the 
story at his desk and groaned. “This is ridiculous!” Connor said to 
himself as he gleaned the last few lines of Ida's column. The phone 
rang breaking his concentration. “Good morning, Fallwood Police 
Precinct. Connor Cassidy speaking, may I help you?” “Connor have you 
seen it?” it was Lynn, she was frantic when she read Ida's column and 
prayed that Allison hadn't seen it yet. “Yes, Lynn I have.” “Has 
Allison seen this?” “I'm sure by now she has. What a lot of nerve Ida 
Freewell has. Listen to this: Allison Shure who  had previously been 
involved with Chad Batano lacks credibility. Sources say that Shure 
concocted Slim's murder to get publicity and also revenge on her former 
lover. Insiders speculate that Hawkins is tucked away safe in some 
secluded hideaway and that Shure is lying.” Connor tore up the paper 
and tossed into the waste basket. “That's ridiculous! Allison wouldn't 
make up a thing like that.” Lynn said emfatically. “I know, you had to 
see her when she told me about Slim's murder, Lynn. She was so afraid. 
I've never seen her so scared.” “Is she all right today?” “Well, she's 
holding up. She puts up a brave front though.” “That's Allison.” “I 
know. I'll keep an eye on her. Don't worry, Lynn.” “I won't. Tell her I 
miss her.” “I will.” As Connor hung up he wondered If what Ida said was 
true. Were Chad and Allison previously involved? 

Allison was perusing articles on her desk when there was a knock at the
door. She opened the door of her tiny cubicle and stared at Chad. “What 
do you want?” she whispered ushering him to a seat at her desk. Oh, 
Allison, not even a hello?” “Hi, Chad what do you want?” “I want to 
tell you that your days are numbered! Do you know what kind of trouble 
you just stirred up? Why in hell did you go to the cops?” “Because I 
had to!” “What a line! You didn't have to! You just wanted to keep your 
husband from finding out about us!” “This is ridiculous! You killed 
Slim!” “Maybe I did and maybe I didn't! Thanks to you I'll be 
investigated!” “You should be!” “I'm telling you that if you even think 
about testifying against me if there's a trial, you'll be swimming at 
the bottom of a lake with a cement kickboard!” “You wouldn't kill me!” 
“Don't think I won't! Did you think this thing through? Before you and 
Lame Brain went to the cops? Did you actually think I would think of 
you the same way ever again? You know why your life's been spared till 
now don't you?” she was shaking and could feel him as he came closer. 
“I ... I ...” “Shut up, Allison! I don't know how the hell I fell in 
love with you!” she could feel his breath on her, it was hot and vile 
just like he was. She could see the dead cold look in his eyes and knew 
the reason he spoke of. “I promised I wouldn't tell about Atlantic 
City!” she stammered. “Yes, that's right! And now you double crossed 
me!” he slammed his fist on the desk and grabbed the paper weight from 
the center. “You double crossed me! No one's ever lived to tell about 
it! And don't think that your life will be spared! I will make your 
life miserable! Until you either do one of two things.” “Wha .... 
What?” he could see the fear in her eyes as she shook violently. “You 
either retract your statement to the police, or you leave town! And 
never come back. I don't care if you take Lame Brain with you! But you 
do one of those two things and I'll never bother you again.” “You 
killed a man in cold blood how could you? How ...” she stopped he hit 
her with the paper weight. Allison crumpled to the floor pretending to 
be unconscious. Chad checked her pulse and knowing she was still 
breathing stood slowly. “Maybe when you come to, you'll have some sense 
knocked into you.” She heard him leave, once she heard the door close, 
Allison opened her eyes. She had pretended to be unconscious so he 
wouldn't hurt her anymore. But she knew what he said was true, and she 
had to tell Connor before he found out some other way. 

Ernie was assessing his new room. Several weeks earlier, Allison and
Connor had paid for him to have the room for rent above Martha's coffee 
shop. He liked the place, he could have coffee any time and enjoyed the 
company. He also missed Allison though, he missed her smile, her voice 
and most of all her beautiful eyes. He longed to hear her voice, but he 
was dreaming if he ever thought she would fall in love with him. Ernie 
had been very fortunate, he'd managed to keep his residence a secret 
from his parents, and he had also nabbed a job. He tended bar in the 
evenings at Martha's when they doubled as a coffee shop and bar. The 
phone rang downstairs. He walked briskly down the stairs and answered. 
“Good morning, Martha's.” “Ernie?” the voice inquired. “Yes.” “Ernie 
Grimson?” the ominous voice asked. “Yes.” “This is ... well you know 
who this is.” “Yes, what do you want?” “That Allison Shure woman?” his 
heart beat quickened as the man slyly said her name like it was poison. 
“I want her dead! By midnight.” “Midnight? When?” Ernie asked trying to 
remain calm and cool. “Tonight.” The man hung up and Ernie listened to 
the staccato dial tone in his ear. He replaced the receiver. He headed 
upstairs to think. While he contemplated his options, he loaded his 22 
revolver and stared out the window. 

Connor had just finished up his clandestine meeting with Lana Lox of Lox
and Rox Realty. He had spotted the perfect house, it had been one that 
Allison had been eyeing for months. She had left advertisements all 
around the apartment, giving him subtle hints. The fire had sped up the 
process of looking for a new place to live. Although his parents were 
lovely and certainly hospitable enough, Connor missed their time as a 
couple. He knew once the baby came, it would virtually go out the 
window anyway, so he wanted to enjoy the last few months with Allie. 
The house was on Pine Avenue, it was the last house on the street, set 
back from all the other houses. It boasted a lavish front lawn, front 
and back yard and a huge deck. Allison had always told him that her 
dream house included a wrap around deck. The deck wrapped around almost 
the entire expanse of the house giving it a pleasant and warm feel. 

Inside was beautiful as well, the rooms were huge and the upstairs
contained four bedrooms and four baths. Connor knew he needed money to 
buy furniture, but wouldn't start worrying about that just yet. As Lana 
walked him through the rest of the house, flipping on light switches 
and telling him about the marble floor on the sun porch and the hard 
wood floors throughout the house, Connor was sold. He liked Lana, her 
cheerful demeanor was accentuated by her welcoming smile and her long 
auburn hair. Her blue eyes were almost the color of the sky, and they 
reminded him of Allison. “Well, Mr. Cassidy, what do you think?” “I'm 
sold.” Connor was ecstatic he couldn't wait to tell Allie that night. 

Allison had confided in Lynn, she knew she had to come clean with Connor
and tell him the truth about Chad, but was also afraid she might lose 
him after all of it was out in the open. Lynn reassured her that 
everything was going to be all right. “Allison, you have nothing to 
worry about. That was such a long time ago. Connor's not going to hold 
that against you.” “How can you be so sure?” “I know these things.” 
Just then Connor strolled into the bedroom. Thelma and Clint had gone 
out for the evening, so they had the whole place to themselves. “Hi, 
Allie!” Connor said kissing her passionately. “Hi, my love. DO you 
still have a job?” she asked kissing him hard on the mouth. She dipped 
her tongue in his mouth and started to explore every crevice. She 
released his lips and he smiled at her. “Oo, we'll have to do that 
again!” she laughed, he loved her laugh, it was musical, like a melody. 
“I still have a job. I wasn't worried. I have the most exciting news to 
tell you.” “Wait, Connor I want you to sit down.” Her eyes betrayed her 
and he knew something serious had happened. “Are you all right, Allie? 
Is the baby all right?” “Fine. I had my appointment with Dr. Ryan this 
afternoon. Everything's fine. I have to tell you something. I want you 
to hear it from me, Connor. There's something about Chad and me that 
you should know. When I was 18 I became involved with him. He was 
sophisticated and worldly and he treated me like a queen. I thought he 
was wonderful! I didn't know then that he was a mobster. We spent every 
minute together, and one day we took a trip to Atlantic City. He 
proposed to me on the Board Walk and I fell more in love with him than 
ever. I said yes and that night we celebrated, I decided to take a 
stroll and just explore when I heard Chad in the distance. He was a few 
feet away from me talking to a dark-haired man. I was going to ask them 
if they wanted a drink until I got closer. I heard Chad order the man 
to kill someone. I forget who, but some man. A politician.” Connor took 
her hand and looked at her with questioning eyes. His brown eyes were 
filled with questions and Allison wanted to turn away so she wouldn't 
see them. “I confronted Chad that night and he said that I had 
misunderstood. But I knew what a hit was, and it didn't occur to me 
till then that he was a mobster. He never talked about crime, and told 
me that his father was a self made millionaire.” “What happened?” 
Connor asked incredulously. He couldn't believe that she had kept this 
from him. “He told me that I shouldn't breathe a word about what I 
heard in Atlantic City. We argued and when our wedding day finally 
arrived, he left me standing at the altar! He also planted drugs in my 
purse and had secretly been using my phone and apartment as the center 
of his drug smuggling operation. But luckily, I wasn't charged on that. 
My lawyer was able to prove that I had no knowledge of this, and she 
was also able to prove that the drugs found on me were planted. I 
forgot about Chad after that, but it was a rough year. This happened 
when I was 21, the same year Mom died. It wasn't stirred up again until 
I started investigating Ernie's disappearance. Chad threatened me and 
told me not to tell what happened in Atlantic City. He told me that if 
I went to the police, he would kill everyone I loved and make me watch! 
He was livid this morning when he found out that I reported Slim's 
murder to Charlie. He threatened me and the only reason he's kept me 
alive this long is to torture me. He taunted me and told me he  would 
tell you. Oh, Connor I'm so sorry! I know you must think less of me for 
keeping this from you but ...” she began to sob. “Allie, it's all 
right.” He said soothingly putting his arm around her. “I was just so 
ashamed that I got trapped into his web that I just wanted to forget 
the whole thing. But Ernie's disappearance drudged it all up again.” 
“Allison, I don't think less of you. First of all, it's not like I 
don't have some skeletons in my closet. Everyone has things they'd 
rather leave in the past, and second of all you didn't have a 
relationship with Chad while we're married.” “That's true.” She said 
dabbing at her eyes with a tissue. “Did he hurt you this morning?” “He 
hit me with a paper weight, I pretended to be unconscious so he'd 
leave. I was so scared, my love! He told me that I shouldn't have gone 
to the police and reported Slim's murder, and he said that if I testify 
against him, he'll kill me and our unborn baby! He gave me two 
ultimatums., he said I can either leave town, or retract my statement 
to the police. I can't do either of those!” “No, you're staying right 
here, where you belong. Allison, come here, sweetness.” She came to his 
side in an instant. He put his arm around her and held her close. He 
kissed her lips delicately and she reveled in his affection. She never 
thought he could ever love her after what she had just told him. But he 
had understood and she loved him even more for this. “I love you, 
Allison. Nothing's going to happen to you. I talked to Bob today. Bob 
Frank is Charlie's superior, he's going to put an officer on you 
starting tomorrow. I wanted to be safe after you reported Slim's 
murder, and now with Chad threatening you, I want to make sure that you 
and the baby are safe.” “I love you too, Connor. I thought that after I 
told you that you wouldn't look at me the same way. I never thought 
you'd understand how I could get mixed up with someone like Chad.” 
“Allison, I love you, you don't have to doubt that. I love you with all 
my heart and soul. Nothing you could say or do would ever change that. 
I have some skeletons too. Relationships I had in my younger days, 
things that happened with Grace. Things I'm not proud of, which I'll 
tell you someday, but I know that you wouldn't love me any less.” “No, 
my love I love you now and forever.” She said kissing him hard and 
deep. He returned her affection and gently began to caress her breasts. 
“What was your news?” she asked between his passionate kisses. “I 
bought you something.” “You did? You didn't have to do that, where is 
it?” “Well, that's a little harder to explain. I can't tell you what it 
is, it's a surprise. But you'll find out tomorrow.” “Tomorrow? I have 
to wait until tomorrow?” “I know the suspense is killing you!” he 
teased kissing her. “You know how I love surprises!” She said 
excitedly. “I know.” He kissed her again feeling the taste of her lips 
against his. He delicately caressed her breasts through her blouse. 

Allison ran her hands up and down his arms caressing every muscle. She
moved to his shoulders and massaged them. Gently, she began to pull off 
his shirt and kissed the places it revealed. After she was finished, 
Connor lifted her blouse over her head and unhooked her bra. They 
quickly rid themselves of the rest of their clothes and were soon on 
the bed. “I love you, Allison!” Connor panted as she kissed him 
longingly. Her kiss was filled with longing and smoldering with desire. 
He could see it in her eyes and he let her take control of their love 
making. 

She delicately ran her fingers through his luxurious blond hair feeling
it ruffle beneath her fingers. Then she reclaimed his lips before 
rolling on top of him. As they conveyed their love for each other with 
their bodies, Allison never felt more loved and more complete. They 
danced their slow rhythmic dance of passion. Once they were too 
exhausted, they just laid in each others arms. “That was amazing.” 
Connor whispered running his finger across her cheek. “I love you.” She 
said breathlessly. “I love you too.” He said kissing her. He wrapped 
her in his arms, and soon they both fell asleep. 

Ernie tossed and turned all night as he contemplated his fate. If he
didn't do what the mystery man requested, he could kiss his life 
goodbye. But how could he kill Allison? She had been the only one to 
believe him about his parents, he couldn't tell her why he didn't want 
them to know of his whereabouts, but he knew he couldn't live with 
himself if he killed her. Allison had given him a place to stay, and 
didn't look down at him the way most people did. An idea formed in his 
mind as he stared out the window with his 22. He had a way to pacify 
the mystery man and save his own skin at the same time. Quickly, Ernie 
raced out the door and down to the 24-hour drugstore. Thank goodness 
they were open 24 hours, there he found all the supplies he would need. 
He purchased them hurriedly and rushed back to his room. He worked late 
into the night assembling his master plan. 

Connor woke to the sound of the alarm, Allison was still sound asleep
beside him. He turned the alarm off and watched her for a few minutes. 
She looked so beautiful, he thought about the agony she must've been 
going through the past few weeks. Now he knew why she was so evasive 
when he had asked her about Chad. He glanced at the clock, it was 6-15, 
he knew he had to wake her and start their day. Connor reached over and 
gently shook her. “Rise and shine, sweetheart.” He said kissing her 
gently. Allison opened her eyes and smiled at him. “Did the alarm go 
off?” “A long time ago.” “Oh, it's too early to get up.” She said 
reluctantly sitting up. “Are you sure you want to continue working, 
sweetness?” he inquired as they quietly headed to the kitchen. “I 
haven't really thought about it, but I'm not even into my third 
trimester yet.” “Yeah, but you're not going to work right up until the 
end are you?” “Oh no, I'm thinking about asking Doug if it's all right 
if I take my eighth month off. There's so much to do, Connor.” He 
listened to her rattle on as she turned on the coffee pot and sat 
beside him. Clint and Thelma were still asleep, and Connor hoped he 
would get to spend some time with her before they got up. “We haven't 
found a new place to live yet. Not that I don't like living here, but 
we never get to have any alone time. We can't even make love without 
them walking in.” she laughed thinking of the time Thelma had walked in 
on them. “I know, sweetheart. Oh I almost forgot, your surprise is 
ready. Meet me here right after work.” “Then you'll tell me what it 
is?” “Yes, then I'll tell you what it is.” They had a quick breakfast 
and headed for the shower. Allison had promised Merna the new girl at 
the newsroom that she would arrive earlier than usual to acquaint her 
with things. “What time will you be home?” Connor asked as he gave her 
a quick kiss. “About quarter to six. By the time my segment of the news 
runs.” “Okay, I'll see you then. I love you.” He kissed her 
passionately. “I love you too, my love. Have a wonderful day!” he 
watched as she left. Once the door closed, Connor walked into the 
kitchen. 

Ernie watched from binoculars, he could see Allison as she made her way
to her car. He hoped that his plan would work, she got in and closed 
the door. She turned the key in the ignition and realized she had 
forgotten her purse. She left the car running as she hurried back into 
the house. “What did you forget?” Connor asked seeing her race past 
him. “I forgot my ...” she stopped cold as she heard an explosion. 
“What the hell?” Connor exclaimed, they stared out the window as her 
car went up in flames. 

Thelma and Clint came running from the bedroom. They had been awakened
from a sound sleep and were frightened out of their minds. “Allison? 
Connor?” Thelma called frantically searching the bedroom. “In here!” 
they both said in unison. Moments later, Thelma appeared framed in the 
doorway. She stood in shocked disbelief along with her husband as they 
watched the car burn before their eyes. Clint called the fire 
department while Thelma made tea for Allison. “That wasn't normal.” 
Connor said softly. “I know that! Chad's trying to kill me!” “Well, he 
missed this time.” “Yeah, but there's always next time, Connor! He's 
ruthless he's terrible! He will kill me!” “Allie, calm down I told you 
I won't let anything happen to you.” Minutes later, two fire trucks 
arrived sirens blaring. They all watched from the window as they began 
to systematically put out the fire. In the chaos, Ernie managed to slip 
away. Thank goodness the delay tactic had worked, Allison wasn't dead. 

Allison was at her desk helping Myrna get used to things around the
station, when the phone rang. “Excuse me.” Merna nodded and left the 
cubicle as Allison answered. “Good morning, WFTR. Allison Shure 
speaking, may I help you?” “Ms. Shure? Or is it Mrs. Cassidy?” “Who is 
this?” she said suspiciously. She had been on edge all morning ever 
since Chad's first attempt on her life. Understandably so, her heart 
pounded in her chest, her breath came in short gasps as she heard the 
man's voice. Did he work for Chad? “Mrs. Cassidy. Shure's just the name 
I use for reporting.” “Oh, well good to speak with you. I'm Rob Coleman 
the D.A.” “How can I help you?” he had been hell bent on putting Chad 
in jail for the last decade, and Allison knew he was relentless when 
pursuing his goals. “Mrs. Cassidy, I'd like you to testify at Mr. 
Batano's upcoming trial. Based on what you witnessed, and the federal 
drug and kidnapping charges, we can put Chadwick Batano away for the 
rest of his life.” “Can I think about this? I have to talk this over  
with my husband.” “Okay, but get back to me all right? You'd be the 
prosecution's star witness. I read Ida Freewell's column, is it true?” 
“Excuse me?” “Is it true about you and Chad Batano? Did you two have 
relations in the past?” Allison sighed leaning against the desk for 
support. “Yes, Mr. Coleman it is.” “Good! Wonderful we can use that 
too.” “I don't really think ...” “Thanks, Mrs. Cassidy. Speak to you 
soon.” Before she could say another word, Rob was gone. Allison opened 
the door and Merna reappeared. She was fresh, 21 with dark auburn hair, 
emerald eyes and a pretty smile. Allison liked her and was going to ask 
Doug if Merna could be her replacement while she was out on maternity 
leave. “What now, Allison?” Merna asked cheerfully. “Let's see, do you 
know how to read a teleprompter?” “No, but I've always wanted to 
learn.” Allison led her to the studio and showed her reels. “Now, 
pretend that you're on the air. I'll be the co-host.” Allison said 
sitting beside her. Allison had last night's stories displayed and as 
they flashed by, Merna read them flawlessly. “How long did this take 
you, Allison?” she laughed thinking back. “A few weeks at least. It's 
hard to keep track of what you're saying when all these words are  
flashing at you.” “Did I do all right?” “Merna, you're a natural!” she 
watched as Merna's face broke into a smile. “Thanks.” She liked Allison 
and thought that they complimented each other very well. The rest of 
the day passed by uneventfully, and when Connor arrived at quarter to 
six, Allison was glad to see him. “How was your day after this 
morning?” he asked as she got in beside him. “Good, Merna's getting the 
hang of things. She's going to be great someday, Connor.” “With you 
teaching her I bet she'll be fabulous!” Allison smiled at him. “Thanks, 
I don't know about that but she'll surpass me.” Connor distracted her 
while he drove to 27 Pine Avenue. “Is this the surprise?” “It is, 
sweetheart! Come right this way.” Connor led her from the car as they 
walked the windy driveway that led to the house. They mounted the three 
steps that led to the front entrance. Connor pulled out his key and 
unlocked the front door. He had met with the owner of the house a nice 
elderly woman named Margo Tompson and had told her what he was 
planning. She made him promise to leave the key under the mat when he 
left. The door opened with a slight groan, Connor flipped on the light 
and they stood in the middle of a large foyer. “I don't understand this 
is the surprise? A house we don't own?” he kissed her to silence her. 
“We do now!” “What?” “Allie, you've been eyeing it for months, I knew 
you wanted this house, but we just couldn't afford it. That's why I've 
been working over time. I wanted to give it to you as a present. I know 
you love it, and you should be happy. Allison, welcome to our new 
home!” He turned and signaled for her to follow him. He opened the door 
and paused at the stairs. “Where are we going?” he lifted her into his 
arms and reentered the house. “Now, it's really ours! I just got to 
carry the most beautiful woman I know over the threshold!” he said 
kissing her. “Connor, it's beautiful! I'm so touched! I don't know what 
to say!” “I love you, Allison. I wanted to surprise you!” “Thank you, 
Connor! What a surprise!” she kissed him again feeling his embrace as 
he wrapped his arms around her. 

During dinner, she told him about Rob's phone call. “The D.A. called
you? He wants you to testify against Chad? Do you think that's a good 
idea?” “I don't know, Connor. I wanted to talk it over with you first.” 
“I think it's a bad idea. You'd be putting yourself and our unborn baby 
at risk. You're in enough danger already.” “I know, but look at it this 
way. If I testify against him, he'll never hurt us again. No more 
looking over my shoulder, or being scared that he's going to show up at 
any minute and ruin everything.” “Oh! You are so stubborn! I can't get 
this through your head can I? Allison! You're asking for trouble!” 
“Connor let me explain ...” “Explain what? Explain how you're putting 
our baby in danger? How you're putting yourself in danger?” “I'm not 
going to jeopardize our baby for Chad! I'm not that stupid!” “I never 
said you were stupid! I just care about you too much to see you get 
hurt!” “Connor stop being so dramatic! We're going to be in a court 
room, Chad will be in shackles and handcuffs. He can't hurt anyone.” 
“You know what? I'm done with this! Talking to you is like talking to a 
brick wall anyway!” Connor got up and headed for the door. Thelma and 
Clint stayed in their bedroom listening to the altercation. “Connor!” 
he turned around to see Allison crumple to the floor. Panicked, he 
rushed to her side. “What is it, Allison?” “Something's wrong!” pain 
tore through her as she tried to speak. It took too much effort. Connor 
picked her up and gently carried her to the car. 

Once at the hospital, Connor, Lynn, Thelma and Clint waited nervously in
the waiting room. Connor hadn't seen Allison since they had arrived, 
she had been wheeled directly up to Margery Ryan. “How is she?” Lynn 
asked frantically. “We haven't heard anything, Lynn.” “Why did you do 
this??” Lynn asked bitterly. “Do what?” “If you hadn't gotten into that 
fight with her none of this would have happened!” “Now just a damn 
minute here I ...” he stopped when he saw Margery coming towards them 
out of the corner of his eye. “How is Allie?” “She's fine, her 
contractions are Brackston-Hicks. The baby's fine, but she's going to 
need to cut down on her stress. What was she doing when the pain 
started?” Connor looked ashamed. “We got into an argument.” “Okay, 
Connor I'm going to tell you something and you're going to listen. 
Allison is in a very delicate state right now. Especially since this 
hasn't been her first encounter with Brackston-Hicks. You need to make 
sure she eats, gets plenty of rest and above all keep her stress level 
down.” “I will, Dr. Ryan. Can I see her?” “Sure, we're going to keep 
her here for a few more hours and then she can go home.” Connor was 
escorted into see Allison. She smiled when she saw him. “Oh, Allison! 
I'm so glad you're all right. Listen, honey I'm sorry. I shouldn't 
stress you out so much.” “It wasn't you, Connor.” He kissed her 
passionately. “Yes it was. If we hadn't gotten into that fight, none of 
this would've happened.” “No, my love listen to me it wasn't you. I'm 
just stressed out about lots of things. About Chad's trial, and moving 
into our new place and ...” “Shh, everything's going to be fine, 
sweetness. I'll take care of everything. I shouldn't have tried to 
persuade you not to testify. If you think it's the right thing, I'll 
stand behind you.” “Even though you don't approve?” “Yes, I love you, 
Allie. I want to make life easy for you. I know that in your heart, you 
truly believe you're doing the right thing.” “I do, Connor. When I 
think of the lives that Chad has taken, and the countless ones he's 
hurt. He shouldn't be allowed to do any more damage, and if I can stop 
him I will.” “I know that. I'll be there every step of the way.” She 
kissed him knowing how lucky she was to have him. 

Six weeks later, Allison entered the Fallwood County Courthouse as the
prosecution's star witness. The trial had been touted as one of 
Fallwood's most sensational cases in the last century. Allison had 
covered parts of the trial and cameras were on hand to capture every 
word of her testimony. As she took her seat on the prosecution's side 
of the court room, she spotted Lynn, Connor, Clint and Thelma. They had 
all come to lend support. Rob Coleman was a short man, boasting salt 
and pepper hair, light brown eyes and a cheerful smile. But his 
demeanor changed once he was in the court room. In his opening 
statement he condemned Chad and all he had done. Ernie watched from the 
side lines as he heard what Rob was saying. “Ladies and gentlemen, I am 
going to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Chadwick Batano is one of 
the most ruthless and vile men who ever lived. with the help of my star 
witness, Allison Shure, I will prove that Chad is not only violent, but 
also shows no mercy. Of course Potter Bridgeman will try to prove 
otherwise. Saying that Chadwick Batano is a misunderstood man with a 
good heart. But I will show this man for what he really is, a demon, a 
liar and a heartless human being who snuffs lives out.” Potter 
Bridgemen opened with his scathing statement against Rob and judge 
Carla Pringle sat with rapt attention listening as both attorneys 
spoke. “Counselor, call your first witness.” She said to Rob. He stood 
boldly and called Allison. “Certainly, Your Honor. The prosecution 
would like to call Allison Shure Cassidy to the stand.” Allison rose 
and walked slowly to the stand.” Raise your right hand.” The bailiff 
instructed. He handed her a bible. Allison took it with trembling 
fingers as Chad's eyes seemed to bore right into her soul. They were 
ice cold and made her shiver. “Do you solemnly swear that the testimony 
you are about to give is the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. So 
help you God?” “I do.” “Sit down, Allison.” Rob instructed. Allison was 
grateful for this, her ankles had started to swell and standing hurt. 
“Now, Mrs. Cassidy state your full name for the court.” “Allison Marie 
Shure Cassidy.” “What is it you do, Mrs. Cassidy?” “I'm a reporter with 
WFTR News.” “Your married to Connor Cassidy is that correct?” “Yes, 
sir.” “Your husband is a well respected detective on the Cold Case Unit 
is he not?” “Yes, sir.” “Can you tell me when you first met the 
defendant?” Chad glared at her hoping to throw her off. But Allison 
didn't flinch as she answered Rob's question. Connor could see that 
determined look in her eyes and knew that nothing Chad did could 
distract her from her mission. “I met Mr. Batano when I was 18. We were 
introduced at a Christmas party. One of my friends set us up.” “Did you 
know then that he was a mobster?” “No, sir.” “When did you find out?” 
“He took me to Atlantic City shortly after we met. It was a whirlwind 
romance, and Chad proposed. As I was taking a stroll I heard him order 
a man to kill a politician.” She had now remembered the politician's 
name and repeated it to herself so she wouldn't forget him. “Which 
politician was that?” “Gifferd Collins.” The spectators gasped. “Why 
did he want to have Mr. Collins killed?” “I don't know.” “Did you 
confront Mr. Batano?” “Yes, sir. I asked him about what I heard and he 
denied being connected with the mob. He had told me that his father was 
a self made millionaire. But I knew what I heard.” “Did you try to call 
the engagement off?” “Yes, but he said he would kill everyone I loved 
and make me watch.” “So you stayed with him?” “Yes, sir. Till he stood 
me up at the altar.” “Objection!” Potter yelled. “Sustained. Let Mrs. 
Cassidy answer the question.” “What happened before that, Mrs. 
Cassidy?” “He planted drugs in my purse and secretly used my apartment 
as a smuggling operation.” “Where was this?” “It was an apartment off 
campus I shared with some friends. I couldn't afford to live on 
campus.” “Were you ever charged?” “No, I was able to prove that I was 
set up.” “Now, Mrs. Cassidy can you describe what you saw on the night 
of June 27?” “I saw a man lurking in the shadows. He waited for Slim 
Hawkins to  come out of  Martha's coffee shop, and then he gunned him 
down in cold blood!” she began to sob. “Objection! That's here say!” 
Potter said angrily standing perilously close to Allison. His beady 
eyes made her nervous but she tried to hide it. “Your Honor, the 
coroner's report confirms what Mrs. Cassidy has stated.” Rob fired 
back. “Sustained. Mr. Bridgeman you're going to have to keep yourself a 
little more composed. Go ahead, Mr. Coleman.” “What did you do then?” 
“I sped away. I was in shock, I'd never witnessed something so 
horrible!” “I understand that the only reason you didn't report it to 
the police was because you blocked it out.” “Yes, that's right. I 
forgot I witnessed anything until a few weekslater. Connor and I were 
on our way to dinner when a car backfired. It triggered my memory of 
the gunshot I heard and then I reported it to the police.” “Did the gun 
have a silencer?” “I think so, because I only heard a slight pop.” “In 
your experience, do you think that Mr. Batano is a danger to society?” 
“I think he's one of the most ruthless and violent men I've ever 
encountered. He's taken lives senselessly and is responsible for the 
disappearance of five young teenagers.” “Objection!” “The witness's 
last comment will be stricken from the record!” Carla shouted. “Thank 
you, Mrs. Cassidy. You're excused.” “Cross, Your Honor.” Potter said 
taking the seat that Rob had just vacated. “Mrs. Cassidy, isn't it true 
that you witnessed a murder when you were 18 as well?” “No.” “Oh? Then 
what did you witness?” “I heard Chad Batano order the killing of 
politician Gifferd Collins.” “And you kept this to yourself why?” 
“Because Chad threatened my life! He also told me he'd kill everyone I 
loved!” “Isn't it true that you're just a jilted lover out for 
revenge?” he practically spat the words at her. He was on the verge of 
shouting at her, and Allison was frightened. Connor wanted to hold her 
hand and tell her that everything was going to be fine, but he 
refrained. “No! I witnessed the murder of Slim Hawkins and I wanted to 
bring Chad to justice!” “You have no idea that Mr. Batano killed Slim 
do you?” “He threatened me in my office with a paper weight! He knocked 
me unconscious and told me that if I breathed a word about Slim's 
murder I'd be wearing cement shoes. Hardly the words of an innocent 
man!” “That still doesn't prove he killed Slim Hawkins. Mrs. Cassidy, 
did Mr. Batano admit to you that he killed Slim Hawkins?” “Yes!” 
Allison said exasperated. “Tell me something, if you're such an 
upstanding person like Mr. Coleman would have this jury believe how 
come you didn't report the murder of Mr. Hawkins sooner?” “I blocked it 
out.” “Just like you blocked Atlantic city out?” she nodded. “Yes, 
sir.” “Isn't it true that you went to Mr. Batano's mansion and 
threatened him?” “No! I told him to stay away from my husband and our 
unborn baby.” “Oh, so you revealed you were pregnant?” “Yes, sir.” “And 
you thought this would help you how?” “Listen to me, Mr. Bridgeman!  
Don't you dare judge me! I told him I was pregnant because I thought 
maybe he would have pity on me. But pity isn't a quality that Mr. 
Batano possesses.”” The witness's last comment will be strickened from 
the record.” Carla said. “Did Mr. Batano make any attempts on your 
life?' “Yes, he tried to kill me with a car bomb. Thankfully, I wasn't 
in the car.” “Do you know for sure it was Mr. Batano? After all you 
have worked on some very high profile cases. How do you know it wasn't 
Mark Renson? Or let's not forget Ben Sams your father the psycho serial 
killer!” “It was Chadwick Batano! I'm as sure of that as I am my own 
name! He threatened me! He's been taunting me!” “I believe that you're 
a scorned woman, Mrs. Cassidy and that you made the whole thing up! 
You're wasting my time and the jury's time to even try this case! If 
you were so sure that you saw Chad Batano kill Slim Hawkins you 
should've gone to the police! Besides that you were hiding the aledged 
order of the hit on Mr. Collins you witnessed in Atlantic City!” “No! 
it wasn't like that! It ...” Allison felt dizzy, the whole room was 
spinning around her, she fell forward and crumpled to the floor. 
Everyone screamed, Connor was on his feet in an instant. “Allison!” 
Connor raced over and knelt down beside her. Panic filled his heart as 
she just lie there on the floor. “Allison? Can you hear me?” He gently 
took hold of her hand, she felt very warm. “Connor, I'm dizzy.” “Okay, 
I'll get you some water.” “Court will take a five minute recess. Mrs. 
Cassidy are you all right?” Connor helped her to her feet and Allison 
sat back down. “Yes, Your Honor I'm fine. I'm sorry.” “That's all 
right. You take all the time you need.” Connor returned moments later 
with a glass of ice cold water. Lynn and Thelma were hovering around 
Allison. Connor watched Allie closely, the color was beginning to 
return to her face. When she had collapsed, she had been as white as a 
sheet. “Are you all right, sweetheart?” Connor asked pulling up a chair 
beside her. “Yes, I'm fine. I'm sorry I scared all of you.” She looked 
around at everyone's concerned expressions. “It's all right, dear. 
We're just glad that you and the baby are fine.” Thelma said with 
concern. “You don't have any pain do you?” Connor asked anxiously 
remembering what Margery had said. “No, We're fine.” She said with a 
reassuring smile. Potter approached them as the five minutes drew to a 
close. “I hope you're proud of yourself, Mr. Bridgemen! You should be 
ashamed of yourself badgering a pregnant woman until she collapsed!” “I 
was just doing my job! But I came to offer my apologies, Mrs. Cassidy. 
I think I pushed you too hard and if I did, I'm sorry.” “That's all 
right, Mr. Bridgemen.” “I don't have any more questions for you. You're 
excused.” Connor helped Allison back to her seat just as his cell phone 
rang. “Cassidy.” “Connor, it's Charlie get over here!” “You could be a 
little nicer, Chief.” Connor said a few choice words while cupping the 
mouthpiece of his cell phone. “We've got a break in the Batano case!” 
“But we're at trial!” “Listen to me, it's not Batano but one of his 
associates. We can hand him to the prosecutor on a silver platter. Now, 
stop tending to your pregnant wife and get over here!” Charlie hung up 
before Connor could respond. “Who was that?” Allison asked as Connor 
hung up the phone. “Charlie, he says they have a break on one of Chad's 
associates. He's looking to convict him.” “Oh, you go.” “Are you sure 
you'll be all right?” “I'll be fine. I'm fine right now. The baby's 
fine too.” “Yeah, Connor and we'll be here.” Lynn said reassuringly. 
“Okay as long as you're sure.” “I'm positive, my love. I'm going to 
take a nap when I get home. I'm exhausted.” “You make sure you get 
plenty of rest. I love you, Allie.” “I love you too.” They kissed 
passionately before Connor departed. The man incognito watched Connor 
drive away. He planted the device just as Chad had instructed, it was 
scheduled to detonate in 15 minutes. Quietly, the man slipped away and 
resumed his normal duties as one of Fallwood's most prominent citizens. 


Allison watched as the proceedings went on. Rob had several witnesses
testify and Potter cross-examined each one. By three, she was 
exhausted, and longed to crawl into bed and sleep. Chad abruptly got 
up. Allison noticed that he wasn't shackled or handcuffed. Two guards 
accompanied him as he left the courtroom. Carla looked at Potter 
suspiciously. “Mr. Bridgemen, where is your client going?” “To the 
restroom, Your Honor.” Carla nodded. The proceedings continued, Chad 
was gone a long time. Longer than usual, Allison thought this was 
strange. Lynn was sitting next to her. She heard something or thought 
she did. “Lynn?” she whispered. “What?” “Do you hear that?” “What?” 
“That ticking.” “No, you?” “Yes, listen.” Lynn listened and when there 
was a lull in the testimony, she heard it too. Potter was proclaiming 
Chad's innocence when Allison interrupted. “Excuse me, but Mr. Batano 
has planted a bomb!” “What is this a joke?” Potter spat. “No! it's a 
bomb! Everybody get out!” “I've never heard of a joke like this bef 
...” before he could say another word, the courtroom exploded. Debris, 
shards of glass and metal scattered everywhere as the building went up 
in flames. 


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