'Double' Pretending by Rachel, admin

1. Part 1 by Rachel

2. Part 2 by Rachel

3. Part 3 by Rachel

4. Part 4 by Rachel

5. Part 5 by Rachel

6. Part 6 by Rachel

7. Part 7 by Rachel

8. Part 8 by Rachel

9. Part 9 by Rachel

Part 1 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them. Thank you for not suing.


"Double" Pretending
by Rachel




Miss Parker scanned the newspaper and a headline caught her eye: „Two more murders in Atlanta. This is the fourth pair of killings that have surfaced in the Atlanta area. Police say the murders are the work of a serial killer labeled the „Twin Murderer". Women have been found blindfolded, gagged, raped, and murdered in pairs. In each pair, the women resembled each other in physical features. The case has been turned over to the VCTF (Violent Crime Task Force) unit of the FBI……"

„Hmmm," Miss Parker pondered. „Hey Broots!" she called out to the bald man that was sitting at the computer in her office. He was actually just chatting online. Lately, all they’ve been doing is keeping busy pretending to look for leads on Jarod and occasionally go on wild goose chases--which were orchestrated by Miss Parker and Jarod. At the moment, there were no shocking Centre secrets that need to be discovered. Mr. Lyle was in Europe on business by Mr. Parker’s orders. The trio COULD delve into Mr. Lyle’s affairs but Miss Parker just didn’t care. She was happy. But in the eyes of the Centre, she was miserable, tense, and determined to bring Jarod back. She’s learned a lot about pretending from Jarod, that’s for sure. Broots is quite content himself and his job situation. He gets to pretend to be having a romantic relationship with Miss Parker---a good cover for when they have to disappear for a couple of days so that Miss Parker can rendezvous with Jarod. And Sydney? He’s been spending a lot of time with his plants--has there been anything exciting about him? Okay, so there was the time he blew up SL-27.

Broots looked up from the computer and looked at Miss Parker. „Yeah?"

„Quit talking to your cyber girlfriends and do something for me. Find out who’s working on the Twin Murderer case and give me bios and pictures of everyone involved in it." Miss Parker stood up from her chair and handed Broots the paper she was reading.

Broots hesitantly took the newspaper from her and he questioned her nervously, glancing quickly at the article, „What are you thinking, Miss Parker?"

„It’s just the kind of thing that Jarod would get involved in, don’t you think?" Miss Parker asked smiling.

Broots sighed and conceded. „I get it. You miss him, so we’re off to Georgia to find Jarod."

„No, well, yes, I do miss him, but we’re gong down there to do a little pretending ourselves and help solve this case. I’m tired to sitting around here watching you pick your nose and scratch your bald head. Now git!"

„Well, I’m sure if you go down to Atlanta, Jarod won’t be far behind."

„I’m counting on that. We need him for this pretend." She left the office and headed toward the nursery to check on her baby brother.

„I don’t have a bald head. Okay, maybe a little bald," Broots grumbled under his breath. He used his awesome computer skills and accessed the information Miss Parker asked for.

Miss Parker strode back into her office and found Broots with his hands behind his neck, stretching, with a satisfied look on his face. He heard her come in and quickly reached for the stack of papers and photos that were printed off of the computer.

„Here you go!"

„Broots, I’m impressed," she complimented.

„Am I good, or what?" he gloated. „There are three men and two women. Can I ask why you wanted their pictures?"

„I need to prepare myself for the encounter. Besides, I have a feeling about something that will help this case--something that involves another woman. I’m not quite sure what."

„Are you sure you want to do this? I mean, it’s a murder case. I hate blood and finding dead people, and blood, and……" A shiver ran up his spine and Broots shuddered at the thought.

„Get a backbone, will you, Broots? It won’t be that bad. I’ll try and spare you from the gruesome stuff."

Broots got back to looking at the pictures and smiled at the sight of the Profiler. „That Rachel Burke is quite a looker."

„Rachel Burke….Rachel Burke…" Miss Parker concentrated. „That name sounds familiar. Oh well." She dismissed the thought and got back to the matter at hand. „This is perfect," Miss Parker said, eyeing Rachel’s picture that Broots was staring at.

„Broots!" she jolted him out of his trance.

„Wh-what?"

„I’ll get a list of what I need you to do before we leave tomorrow. I’m going to talk to Daddy about releasing Angelo to our care for the time being. With the ghoul gone and my psycho brother out of the country, I can talk my father into letting me ‘use’ Angelo."

„Angelo? We’re taking Angelo with us?"

„Hey, if they’re going to have a ‘gifted’ profiler, so it says in her bio, I’m going to have an empath to help us out."

„What about Sydney?"

„We better bring him. Angelo needs a sitter."
Part 2 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.



"Double" Pretending

part II
by Rachel




Jarod sat heavily on the couch in his apartment exhausted from another long day at the construction site. In this pretend, he wasn’t out to expose anyone or solve a case, just volunteering his expertise and physical ability to put up a Children’s Clinic. It was Miss Parker’s idea actually. She’s funding the whole project. Jarod smiled at the thought of her. He missed her but was relieved she wasn’t around. He would only get distracted, and so will the other workers. Besides, she’s a slave driver--wants everything done yesterday, and done perfectly. Jarod picked up his phone and dialed her number.

Miss Parker rushed out of the bathroom with her hair wrapped in a towel and picked up the ringing cell phone.

„Hi, Sweetheart," Jarod’s voice said tiredly at the other end.

„Hi. You sound tired." Miss Parker answered concerned.

„Long day at the office. I should be done tomorrow with my part of the project."

„How’s it going over there? Is my money getting spent wisely?"

„It’s going to be a great asset to the town. You’re doing a wonderful thing, Parker."

„I’m glad. I miss you, Jarod."

„I miss you, too. What are you up to?"

„Who said I was up to anything?"

„You’re always up to something, Parker." Jarod could almost see her smiling on the other end. He knows she can’t stand it when he’s always right about her.

„Well, since you asked. Can you meet us in Atlanta the next day?"

„What’s in Atlanta?" Jarod asked suspiciously.

„A murder case." Miss Parker responded casually.

„A what?! You’re not thinking….."

„I know I have to be there to solve this one. I just have a feeling, a connection somehow. Besides, I’m bored without you."

„Can’t you find something else to fill your boredom? Like shopping?"

„No."

„You said ‘us’, who else are you getting involved in this?"

„Broots, Sydney, and Angelo."

„Angelo? How are you going to manage that?"

„Already did. I still have what it takes to charm dear old Daddy. I told him we had a lead on you and we needed Angelo’s gift to figure it all out. He was so preoccupied with business, he didn’t care what I asked for. I don’t think he even heard what I asked for, just waved me off with a ‘Yes, Angel, you can.’„

„I’m sure you have your mind set on this, Parker. How pointless is it for me to try and talk you out of it?"

„Pointless. Broots and I will have to convince the FBI to let us work with them. You’ll have to figure out a way to get in on the team."

„The FBI? With Bailey Malone?"

„Yes, you know him?"

„I’ve worked with him before. He’s very suspicious of me. I don’t know if I can pull off getting on with the team again. And remember when I told you I was involved with someone from the FBI?"

„Oh! Rachel Burke!" Miss Parker exclaimed. „I knew that name sounded familiar. How close were you?"

„We were involved, but I haven’t had contact with her for over a year."

„That close, huh?" Miss Parker asked sarcastically. „That’s your in right there. Play on her attachment to you. Maybe after all this time, she still likes you. Just not TOO in, if you know what’s good for you." Miss Parker threatened.

„Jealous?" Jarod teased.

„No." Miss Parker said unconvincingly. „I know where your loyalties lie and I KNOW you know better than to cross me." She tried to sound tough, which only received a laugh from Jarod.

„I’ll look into the case and see what I can find out. Don’t do anything rash before you talk to me about it. Alright?" When he didn’t get a response, Jarod asked again, this time with more force, „Parker? Alright?"

„Alright, alright." She answered hastily.

‘Damn,’ Jarod thought ‘she’s already cooked up a plan. I am NOT going to like this.’

„I’ll see you in a couple of days, then."

„Dream of me, Jarod."

„Always do. I love you, Parker."

„I love you, too."
Part 3 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.



"Double" Pretending

part III
by Rachel



Bailey Malone, the team leader of the FBI VCTF, extended his hand to the woman who greeted him.

„It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Malone, and thank you for meeting with us," Miss Parker said warmly but professionally.

„It’s nice to meet you, too, Miss Parker. Please call me Bailey."

„My name is Maxine, but please call me Max"

Malone introduced the others to her and Broots, who now stood next to her after being ‘gently’ pulled from behind her. What she considered gentle was digging her nails into his arm so that all he could do was follow.

„What exactly is your interest in this case, Miss Parker? I mean, Max"

„We have been hired by the family of the recent victim to find her killer. Since you’re also working on the case, I thought we could work together and pool our resources."

Malone looked at her warily and shook his head. „We don’t work with other agencies."

„Broots here is the best computer geek on the face of this earth. No offense, George." George shook his head no. He wondered if she’s good enough to convince the tough man.

Miss Parker continued her plea. „We have access to information and equipment that the measly FBI budget couldn’t touch. You don’t put us on your payroll, so there’s no loss there. If we work together, you don’t get in our way and we don’t get in yours. You would still be in charge of the case. And I have something to offer that you won’t be able to resist."

„What would that be?" They all looked on with interest.

Broots looked at Miss Parker and whispered nervously, „Yeah, what would that be?"

Miss Parker walked around the table, taking off her jacket, and urged Rachel to stand up. Miss Parker stood next to her and smirked. „Bait."

With Miss Parker’s hair lengthened to her shoulders and dyed red, her similarity to Rachel was uncanny. They could pass as sisters.

The battle in Malone’s head was evident on his face. „We don’t operate that way. It’s too dangerous and it’s just not the way we do things."

„This bastard is going to find two more victims," Miss Parker’s voice was now taking on an edge that were making everyone uneasy, „why not use two trained professionals to handle it? Unless, of course, you’re not sure that Miss Burke here is capable….."

„I’m very capable, „ Rachel piped in, „I think this will work." She looked at Miss Parker and smiled. Miss Parker smiled back and a bond just formed between the two women.

„No, it’s too dangerous." Malone insisted. „We cannot risk….."

„I’m damned good at what I do, Mr. Malone. This is the only way we can catch this son of a bitch before he strikes again, if he hasn’t already picked out his next victims."

Malone was stuck. The woman was persistent. George and John were impressed at her ability--and not just that, she was darn good-lookin’.

„Fine." Malone conceded. Miss Parker and Rachel looked at each other triumphantly and smiled at each other again. But Rachel had a nervous smile. What did she get herself into? And who is this woman who got her into this?

„This is not a game, Miss Parker," Malone warned, „this is very dangerous."

„I understand that."

„How are you so confident? An unstable, psychotic killer can be unpredictable. Anything can go wrong."

„You can say I have my own personal guardian angel to take care of me." Miss Parker confided, thinking of Jarod. ‘And I have an unstable, psychotic killer for a brother,’ she thought of Mr. Lyle.

Malone was still uncertain about this woman and her sidekick. Miss Parker sensed his distrust.

***

Broots sat next to George and connected his computer. The two men punched away for information. They needed to find out the victims’ lifestyles--where they lived, where they ate, where they spent their vacations, where they hung out. Rachel ended up inviting Miss Parker to her apartment to discuss the case further and what they needed to do as „bait."

***

RACHEL’S APARTMENT

„So, Rachel, is there a tall, dark, handsome man in your life?"

„The only tall, dark, handsome man I’ve ever known was someone I met a long time ago."

„What happened?" Miss Parked nosed, but she caught a glimpse of sadness and discomfort in Rachel. „I’m sorry, being in the job that I am, I can’t help but be nosy."

„It’s okay. His name was Jarod."

„What’s he like?"

„Very mysterious and very troubled. He helped us with a case over a year ago. He’s brilliant, brave…" Rachel went on and on describing Jarod’s WONDERFUL traits. Miss Parker was beginning to get bored. She knows all these already. „…..and he loves my bouillabaisse" Rachel smiled at the thought of Jarod, not noticing the worried look on Miss Parker’s face. ‘She’s still got it bad, this can’t be good,’ Miss Parker thought.

„Have you seen him or heard from him lately?" Miss Parker asked.

Rachel’s smile disappeared and sadness took over her face. „No, I haven’t seen him in over a year. Hey let’s not get into this anymore, okay? We have work to do. Jarod is in the past." Rachel tried to sound cheerful.

„You’re right. Let’s get to work." A knock on the door made the two women pause.

„Who could that be?" Rachel asked glancing at her watch. She stood and walked to the door cautiously. Even though the ordeal with Marx was over, she was still nervous. Miss Parker also stood and stayed behind just enough to keep an eye on her. Rachel opened the door and was shocked at the visitor. It was Jarod.

Rachel stood there speechless. She ushered him in and wrapped her arms around his neck. Jarod hugged her back and looked at Miss Parker smiling. He pointed at her and mouthed, „I like your hair."

„Thank you," she mouthed back. „You can untangle yourself from her now," she mouthed very distinctly.

They broke the embrace and looked at each other happily. Miss Parker can only roll her eyes. Rachel took Jarod’s arm and turned to face Miss Parker.

„Max, this is Jarod. Jarod, this is Max. We’re working on a case together. What are you doing here, Jarod?"

„I was thinking about you and I heard you were working on a murder case. I want to help."

„Jarod," Miss Parker voiced, „how do I know we can trust you?"

„We can trust him, Max." Rachel defended, as she noticed Miss Parker’s scrutinizing gaze on Jarod.

„So Jarod?" Miss Parker questioned, „what do you do?"

„This and that. Odd jobs here and there."

„A drifter, huh? You running away from something? Or someone?" Miss Parker nosed again.

Rachel saw Jarod’s uneasiness and decided to rescue him from Miss Parker. „Don’t mind her, Jarod. She’s a private investigator. She’s naturally nosy." Rachel gave Miss Parker a friendly look to ease up on Jarod. Rachel went into the kitchen and began making coffee.

Jarod sat next to Miss Parker and pretended to engage in friendly chit chat, but speaking softly enough that Rachel couldn’t hear from the kitchen.

„She doesn’t know it yet, but we’re not staying. I have plans for you, Mister." Miss Parker whispered.

„I hope it involves cherries and whipped cream." Jarod said in a neutral voice, trying not to sound too excited.

„oooh, I’ll bring the handcuffs." Miss Parker cooed.

„Handcuffs?" Jarod asked confused.

Miss Parker looked at him bewilderedly. „Yeah, handcuffs?," she repeated, her eyes wide, trying to make him understand.

„Oh!" Jarod understood. „I was thinking about ice cream sundaes," he said innocently. Then he realized what he just said.

Miss Parker was dumbfounded. She tried not to smile, pressing her lips together tightly, but it was hard. She knew that if she cracked a smile, she would lose it and laugh out loud. She tried holding her breath, but that just made her breathing sporadic. It didn’t help that Jarod was doing the same thing. Miss Parker excused herself and almost ran to the bathroom. Jarod made a quick, lame excuse about checking something out in the hallway and made a beeline to the door, leaving Rachel holding two cups of coffee in her hands, wondering what’s going on.
Part 4 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.



"Double" Pretending

part IV
by Rachel




After finally getting it out of their system, Jarod and Miss Parker went back into the living room casually, like nothing unusual transpired.

„That’s a beautiful picture you have in the bathroom, Rachel," Miss Parker said, combing her fingers through her hair, making it look like she was freshening up. Good cover, Miss Parker. She couldn’t look at Jarod in fear of losing it.

Rachel looked at Jarod. It was his turn to explain. Looking a little worried at first, he smiled at Rachel and that eased her uneasiness. „I thought I heard something outside. I just checked it out. I know how worried you get," Jarod assured her, flashing her a grin. She melted in gratefulness.

„You said you had your personal guardian angel?" Rachel addressed Miss Parker, „well, I have Jarod." Rachel bragged. Jarod looked at Miss Parker and gave her a quick grin. She patronizingly smiled back at Rachel.

„I have coffee ready," Rachel announced, walking in front of Jarod and Miss Parker. Jarod walked closely next to Miss Parker and grabbed her butt playfully. She jumped a little and pushed passed him. Now she REALLY wants to get out of there and be alone with him.

They clued Jarod in on the plan. Miss Parker could tell he disapproved immensely. He was not going to be happy with her. They talked well into the night. Jarod fell asleep on the couch while the women talked about their plan of action for the next couple of days to bait the killer. He didn't have much to say anyway. Miss Parker was always cutting him off--making sure he didn't have a chance to disagree or argue. Finally, Miss Parker stood up to stretch and decided it was time to go. She made a head gesture towards Jarod, questioning what they should do about him. Rachel smiled and caressed his cheeks lightly, thinking he would just stay there with her. Jarod stirred awake and looked at Rachel’s smiling face, then turned to look at Miss Parker’s expectant face. Jarod got up. „Hey ladies, hate to be a party pooper but I have something I have to take care of."

„I’m on my way out, too," Miss Parker said.

„Would you mind giving me a ride?" Jarod asked Miss Parker.

„Don’t mind at all," Miss Parker responded, the whole time she and Jarod avoiding Rachel’s look of disappointment.

„Jarod," Rachel began, sounding like she was begging, „I thought maybe…."

„I’ll see you tomorrow, alright?" Jarod cupped her chin and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

„Thanks for the coffee, Rachel. I’ll see you tomorrow morning." Miss Parker looked at her watch, „actually, I’ll see later this morning." Rachel could only nod.

Jarod and Miss Parker headed out the door, leaving Rachel alone. Jarod peeked his head back in and told her to lock the door behind him. Rachel obeyed, as if in a trance. Her ideas of being with him were just snuffed out. Oh well, there’s always tomorrow night.

Jarod and Miss Parker walked quickly out of the building and into her car, anticipating the time the two of them will spend together.

"Gee, Jarod, I thought you'd never shut up so we could get out of there, " she joked. She saw concern and a touch of anger in his eyes. She felt a little guilty for keeping him out of the loop with her plans. She pouted and tried to apologize but he just sat there in silence. She started to put the key in the ignition but stopped abruptly. She turned and grabbed Jarod by the neck and kissed him deeply and passionately, which he returned eagerly. "I've missed you so much," they whispered to each other between kisses. After he broke the kiss, he whispered breathlessly in her ear, "Can we stop somewhere and get some cherries and whipped cream?"

****

THE NEXT DAY

„Thanks for letting us in here, Rachel" Miss Parker said as they entered the room with the recent victims’ bodies. Miss Parker was holding on to Broot’s arm, practically dragging him, and Sydney was leading Angelo by the arm as well. Angelo cowered.

„Grace, this is Max. She’ll be working on the case with us."

„Nice to meet you, Max," Grace greeted, looking warningly at the three men who came with her.

„Nice to meet you," Miss Parker extended her hand.

„What exactly is it that Angelo can do?" Rachel asked

„He’s an empath. He feels things. He feels what another person feels or felt by simply touching." Miss Parker explained.

Rachel walked slowly toward Angelo and held out her hand for him. Angelo sank into Sydney, but shyly and timidly reached out to touch Rachel’s hand. Angelo smiled. Then he hurriedly grabbed Sydney’s arm and led him to a corner away from everyone.

„Sydney," Angelo said, still smiling, „two women, one man."

„Yes, Angelo, we’re trying to solve the murder of two women by a man."

„No, no, no, Sydney," Angelo protested. „Two women, and……Jarod."

Sydney laughed. „Yes, Angelo. Don’t tell Rachel. It’s a secret."

„Angelo won’t tell."

Sydney explained to Angelo what they wanted him to do and Angelo agreed.

„Sydney! Bring Angelo over here." Miss Parker ordered. She noticed the smirk on Sydney’s face and wondered what could be funny.

Angelo carefully approached one of the bodies and before reaching for it’s hand, he looked over to everyone, asking for approval. They all nodded at him and he took hold of the body’s hand. He scrunched his eyes closed. „Dark."

„Feel pain. Feel fear, much fear." Angelo’s countenance displayed what he felt, what the woman felt. „Hear two voices."

Everyone looked at each other confused. „Two voices?" they all questioned silently.

„Two voices, Angelo?" Miss Parker asked cautiously.

„Yes."

„Must be the voice of the killer and the other woman," Broots tried to reason out.

„No, two voices and……..crying."

„Whose voices, Angelo?"

„Two men. Mirror of each other." Angelo released the hand and opened his eyes, pleading, „Angelo stop. Don’t want to feel anymore."

Miss Parker put a hand on his shoulder, „That’s fine, Angelo." She motioned for Sydney to take him away. Broots followed. He’d had all the dead bodies he could stand.
Part 5 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.


"Double" Pretending

part V
by Rachel




A couple of the women victims frequented the O’Malley’s Bar so Miss Parker and Rachel decided to give it a visit. They brought Broots with them. They figured he’s not much of a threat to anyone. John, the other FBI agent sat in a corner booth and Jarod sat on the other end of the bar. The women sat invitingly at the bar, flirting with everyone that was interested--and there were many that were interested. They found relief from an elderly man--he was there to offer friendly conversation--without being two-faced and irritatingly boorish. He joined them at a table, talking, laughing, getting to know each other. They met him earlier at the park while they were jogging. He was also a jogger. For a man in his sixties, he was in pretty good shape. Apparently, one of the victims jogged religiously at that park, so Miss Parker and Rachel ran that morning. They dressed similarly and had their hair tied the same way. They wore sunglasses, making them look even more alike. They have to make it easy for the target, or targets, to notice them. Tonight, they both wore a short black dress--shorter than Rachel preferred, but Miss Parker insisted. Their hair hung gently down to their shoulders. They’ve had a couple of twins approach them, fitting the profile that Rachel came up with. Jarod made a mental note of everyone who talked to the two women. The older man eventually left their company to mingle with other patrons. Broots stayed at the bar talking to a girl. Miss Parker would occasionally glance at Jarod, who was shaking his head and glaring. She would smile at him and go on with her seduction of every sorry man that came around. Rachel wasn’t doing that bad at it, either. Her attention was constantly on Jarod, though, wishing he would just come over and take her away.

Finally, John and Jarod got up from their observation station and approached the two women, asking them to dance.

„Have you sensed anything?" Jarod asked Rachel as she held on to him tightly.

„I keep seeing pictures of a boy being beaten and his mirror image standing, just watching."

„Isn’t that what you and Max discovered? That there are two men involved?
Possibly twins?"

„Yes, thanks to her friend, Angelo. Two men will be harder to bait. I sense they were physically abused as a child, tormented by the past. Probably beaten by their mother and taking it out on women to get back at her."

„I don’t like this at all." Jarod protested. „You shouldn’t be involved in this like this. I’m going to have a talk with Max."

„It won’t do you any good. She’s very committed to this case. But you can try."

Jarod and Rachel danced closer to John and Miss Parker and Jarod offered to switch dancing partners. John and Rachel decided to sit this one out, but Rachel kept her eyes on them.

Jarod and Miss Parker danced closely, but not too closely--wouldn’t want anyone to get suspicious.

„Is she still looking?" Miss Parker asked.

„Yes." Jarod kept his face full of concern and determination. He can’t look like he’s enjoying having her in his arms, even though that’s exactly how he’s feeling. „I’m supposed to be talking you out of this insane idea of baiting a killer."

„I don’t want to talk about work, I just want to enjoy being in your arms."

„I wish I could hold you tighter and kiss you, but I have to will myself to look like I’m not enjoying this."

„How strong is your will, Jarod?" Miss Parker asked mischievously, knowing Rachel can’t see her face or see what she’ saying to Jarod.

„I have will of steel, Parker. You can’t move me." Jarod responded, still sporting a stone-cast face, even throwing in a frustrated look now and then.

Miss Parker whispered seductively in his ear, giving him shivers. „Have I told you today that I love you? Why don’t you take me home and rip my clothes off and we can make hhhot, wild, paaassionate love together? You can plant wet, warm kisses all over my body….. You’re breathing funny, Jarod." She smiled.

Jarod spun her around so now his back is to Rachel. „Your turn."

„Bring it on, „ she said through gritted teeth, pretending to look annoyed and bored.

Jarod pressed on her lower back, making her feel his hardness and he huskily breathe on her neck. „You feel that? It’s seeking for your pleasure. I can taste your breast in my mouth, Parker. I want to kiss every inch of your body, molding it into mine…."

‘Damn! I just closed my eyes in ecstasy. Hope she didn’t see that,’ Miss Parker thought. „We’re done!" She said abruptly, pushing away from him.

„You are so weak," Jarod grinned.

They walked in a huff toward the table where Rachel and John were sitting. They sat down, glaring at each other. Rachel and John were mystified, but they sat in silence, the tension thick.

„What’s going on?" Rachel finally asked.

„Just tell your cocky boyfriend here (pointing at Jarod) to do his job. If he can’t handle it, leave it to the capable ones. If he doesn’t like the way we do things, he can disappear." Miss Parker said angrily. „I’m going home." She stood up and headed toward Broots. She told him to stay. Looks like he was having a good time talking to the same girl he’s been talking to since they got there. She left the room without giving anyone a second look.

Jarod gritted his teeth in exasperation, receiving sympathy looks from John and Rachel. „She is so infuriating! Such a stubborn, over-bearing……."

„Calm down, Jarod," Rachel said reassuringly. „I told you she was committed to this case. I really admire her for her determination."

„That makes one of us."

Jarod’s beeper went off and he reached for it quickly to turn it off after reading the message, giving Rachel an apologetic look.

„The hospital?" she asked. He really was volunteering at the local hospital to convince Malone and the other FBI agents that he was trustworthy and involved in a worthy cause to quench their suspicions of him. But this time, the message was from Miss Parker. It simply said: „You coming?"

„I have to go." Jarod said, and he left. John offered to take Rachel home. Rachel was unsure more than ever. Jarod has been distracted lately and she can’t figure out why. ‘It can’t be about Max,’ she thought, ‘the woman irritates the hell out of him. Maybe it IS about Max.’ Rachel became worried. Two nights has passed and another one is about over and Jarod still hasn’t spent the night with her. To think about it, he hasn’t even kissed her on the mouth AT ALL.

***

In the shadows of the dimly lit bar room, a man sat talking on his cell phone. „I saw them. They’re perfect. Beautiful, strong, perfect. The balding man won’t be trouble. But the other two…. Didn’t you see them watching the women at the park? How could they possibly know about anything? I don’t give a damn if this smells of a set up--makes it that much more fulfilling. We’re smarter and stronger--we can handle them. The pleasure of seeing them suffer is going to be worth it all. Keep low and keep watching. We’ll make our move soon enough."

*************
Part 6 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.


"Double" Pretending
part VI
by Rachel




The alarm went off and Miss Parker slammed her hand on the clock to stop the noise. She and Rachel were meeting at the park again to jog.

„Ugh," she complained, „why couldn’t these women favor the shooting range instead."

„I prefer seeing you in those skimpy shorts rather than with a gun in your hand." Jarod said, smirking.

„Pervert," she grumbled, climbing over him to get out of bed. Jarod grabbed her before she could get off and held her on top of him.

„Good morning. You know you’d get up easier if you didn’t stay up all hours of the night seducing me."

„You are such a dreamer," Miss Parker smiled, planting her hands on the pillow, just to the sides of his head.

„Was that all a dream? I could have sworn it was real. I think my back is still bleeding from your nails." Jarod gathered her hair at the nape of her neck and leaned in for a kiss.

Miss Parker kissed him briefly and pushed off of him. „Would love to stay and play, but I have to run." She went into the bathroom and got ready for her morning jog.

Jarod let out a frustrated grunt and got up after her.

*******************

„Good morning, Frank!" Miss Parker and Rachel greeted the elderly man who stretched by the bench.

„Well, hello, ladies! Beautiful morning for a jog, don’t you think?"

„It sure is."

Frank looked around cautiously as if to make sure that everyone and everything was in place--sort of like a shepherd guarding his sheep. Miss Parker and Rachel noticed and asked him about his concern.

„I’m so glad you two run together. Ever since that nice Amber girl was killed, I’ve taken it upon myself to keep an eye on things."

Miss Parker and Rachel looked at each other and both understood that Frank was talking about the woman who was killed in the Twin Murder case.

„Yes, we heard about that. What do you know about her, Frank?" Rachel questioned.

„She was a nice girl, didn’t talk much. She was a dedicated jogger. She jogged in the morning and she jogged around 7 p.m. My son jogged after work so he sees her, acquainted himself with her."

„Did you notice anything strange before she was killed?"

„No. You sound like the police."

Rachel smiled and confided in the old man. „We’re with the FBI. We’re trying to find out who killed Amber and the other women. If you can tell us anything, we’d really appreciate it."

Frank looked at the two and shook his head, smiling. „You two pretty ladies are with the Feds, huh? Is that why you have those two young men watching out for you? (motioning to Jarod and John sitting on a park bench)."

„I really didn’t notice anything different. I should have been more observant. Maybe I could have spotted someone watching her, gawking at her, or something. One day, she was running, the next day, she was gone. I learned my lesson. Now I’m going to make damn sure I watch out for these people. Maybe we can set up a time to talk with my son. He might know something. Better get going now, ladies. And stay together," Frank ordered, sounding like a father protecting his daughters.

The women began their jog, waving a friendly goodbye to their new friend.

One of the murdered women worked at the underground mall in downtown Atlanta. Much to their pleasure, that’s where the ladies decided to spend the afternoon. It wasn’t much pleasure for Jarod and Broots. Broots ended up carrying Miss Parker’s purchases around and Jarod just followed close behind, trying to look inconspicuous.

Tired of standing in the shadows, Jarod decided to sit on a bench in the middle of the mall, but still kept an eye on the two women. While he looked the other way, he didn’t notice another presence that approached him hurriedly.

„Jarod?" a familiar, overly-excited, scratchy voice got his attention.

Jarod whipped his head and was stunned at the sight of the person standing in front of him.
Part 7 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: I know, I know, how dumb could this be? You’ll see what I mean when you read it! But, hey, why not involve everyone!? So, I was a little sidetracked--sorry.


"Double" Pretending
part VII
by Rachel




„Oh my gosh! Jarod! I can’t believe it’s you!" The girl was WAY too excited. Rachel and Miss Parker stopped and turned to see all the commotion with Jarod.

„Zoe." Jarod said, barely moving his mouth. Of all people to run into, it had to be her. How is he going to get out of this one? He felt guilty, nervous, actually glad to see she was okay, worried how Rachel and Miss Parker were going to react to this. All that emotion flooding through a person couldn’t be good.

Zoe slung her arms around his neck and hugged him fiercely. He returned the embrace reluctantly.

Miss Parker stood there with her arms crossed and her eyebrow raised. ‘This is interesting,’ she pondered. She looked over at Rachel and saw the fire in her eyes. Miss Parker was amused. Jarod has gotten himself into something--should be fun to see how gets out of it.

Jarod looked at Zoe and was concerned how she was. „You doing okay?"

„I’m fine. Still in remission." Then Zoe narrowed her eyes scowled at Jarod.

„What the hell happened to you?!" she demanded. „Last time we were together, we were planning a vacation."

„Zoe, I’m sorry…."

„Sorry?! I was kidnapped by some psychos who wanted to kill you. Your father rescues me then he disappears. You disappear and I don’t hear from you! For months I waited, then I was worried sick that those people got to you and killed you!" Zoe was getting hot. Jarod couldn’t get a word in to explain or apologize.

Rachel made a move toward the two. Miss Parker held her arm and asked what she was doing.

„I’m going to find out what’s going on." Miss Parker shrugged her shoulders and let Rachel loose. Broots darted his eyes between the scene and Miss Parker, not knowing what to do. „Are you going to do something, Miss Parker?"

„Damn right, I’m going to do something."

Rachel came up to Jarod and put her hand on his arm. Jarod turned his head and panicked. ‘Oh no, I’m a dead man.’

Zoe glared at Rachel. Rachel glared back.

„Who’s she?" Zoe asked.

Jarod introduced them hurriedly and simmed a way to escape. He was glad that Miss Parker was staying out of the way.

Then another woman came up to the trio and looked at Jarod angrily. She pushed Zoe aside and stood in front of him. „That’s why you never called me back, you two-timing jerk!" And she slapped him--not hard, just enough to make a scene--and walked off in a huff.

„But, I-I……"Jarod stammered, confused at what just happened. He didn’t know who that woman was. He turned to look at Miss Parker and she was smiling a very amused smile. All he could do was give her an „I’m-going-go-get-you-for-this" look.

Broots smiled along with her, but immediately frowned when Jarod looked their way. „That wasn’t very nice, Miss Parker. It was funny, but not very nice."

„Who said I was a nice?"

After recovering from what just happened, Jarod took control. He excused himself from Rachel and took Zoe aside to explain.

„I’m really sorry, Zoe."

„Like I said, Jarod, I thought you were dead. Then I find you here with another woman, no, two. What happened? What happened to us? I waited for you for months."

„I found my brother, but he was seriously injured in an explosion. It took a long time for him to recover. At the same time, an old friend helped me through it. We helped each other. She and I got close. I thought about you and I wanted to let you know what was happening, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. I didn’t want to hurt you."

„Was that her? Was she the one you fell in love with?" Zoe questioned about Rachel.

„No."

„There’s someone else?" Zoe asked in disbelief.

„That’s an even longer story. I’m glad you’re doing fine. And I’m really sorry. You have to know I care about you." Jarod apologized sincerely.

„I know. After a year, I realized that you were gone and I resolved it. I’m fine. I’m glad you found someone--just don’t disappear on her, nothing hurts more than hanging on to something that doesn’t exist. And thanks to your recommendation about a new therapy and medication, I think I’ll even outlive you." Zoe smiled an understanding smile. They hugged each other for a final good-bye. „I’ll tell Nana you said hi. Good-bye, Jarod."

„Good-bye Zoe." Jarod said sadly, but relieved, watching her walk away. Now to deal with Rachel AND Miss Parker.

Behind a pillar, a man watched in anticipation. ‘Tomorrow, you’ll be ours tomorrow,’ he thought with a sinister chuckle, and he walked away, mingling with the crowd.
Part 8 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.



"Double" Pretending

part VIII
by Rachel





Rachel bolted from her sleep, troubled by a vision in her head. She got up, paced, and looked through the pictures that Jarod and Broots ‘borrowed’ from the security camera at the O’Malley’s bar--pictures of the men that approached her and Miss Parker. Jarod and Broots managed to run a bio on
each of the men. They also had pictures of men when the other women victims were there. There were some of the same men from both sets of photos. Something was not right. They were there--the killers were there--she could sense it. She decided to call Miss Parker to help her. “It’s only 12:15 in the morning,” she reasoned, “Max won’t mind.”

“What?” Miss Parker answered the phone grogily.

“Max, it’s Rachel. Sorry to wake you, but I’m having trouble sleeping. I want to talk about the case. There’s something we’re missing. I sense something is about to go wrong.”

“I’ll be right there. Jarod is at the hospital. I’ll call him on his beeper.”

‘She has his beeper number?’ Rachel thought after hanging up, but then she dismissed it. “Quit being so insecure!” she scolded herself.

RACHEL’S APARTMENT

“Thanks for coming, Max. Come here and take a look at these pictures. See if you can figure something.” Rachel ushered Miss Parker to the couch and coffee table. Miss Parker intently looked through them, hoping that she could sense something that was troubling Rachel. Rachel sat next to her and tried to explain her visions. “I keep seeing pictures of a boy getting beaten. You remember when I said they could be taking it out on women because of what their mother might have done? The hand that beats the boy is a man’s hand. The boys look exactly the same, but somehow different. The mirror image looks like from an old photo.”

“You’re right, Rachel. We’re being deceived somehow . I sense it, too.”

Rachel got up to make some coffee. “Would you like some coffee and dessert?”

“Sure. What is it?”

“I found this delicious new cream pie with a pistachio nut topping. I’ll set some out for Jarod, too, for when he gets here.”

“Don’t bother, he’s allergic to pistachios.” Miss Parker was so intent on analyzing the pictures she realized too late that she just divulged information about Jarod.

“How do you know that?” Rachel asked suspiciously.

“Um, I think he mentioned it to Broots once,” Miss Parker tried to cover.

Miss Parker noticed the uncertain look on Rachel’s face. “Something else is bothering you. What is it?”

Rachel sat on the couch and heaved a big sigh. “It’s Jarod.”

‘Oh boy, here we go,’ Miss Parker thought.

“He acts like he’s still interested in me, but he’s been so distracted and distant. I don’t understand him.”

“Maybe it’s his way of sparing you from the pain. If I were you I’d dump the guy. What do you think is going to happen when this case is done? Yeah, he’s going to disappear again. You said yourself he’s very mysterious. Who knows, he might be hiding some forbidden secret. I’d take the friendship and stay away from the commitment--especially from someone like him.”

“I suppose you’re right. But I can’t help but be attractive to him. He’s so charming. Don’t tell me you don’t find him somewhat captivating.”

“I’d either be blind or dead if I didn’t. He IS very handsome. But he’s also stubborn and arrogant.”

“That’s funny, he called you the same thing, and add over-bearing to that.” Rachel said jokingly.

“Hey, he picked up on my good qualities.” The women laughed .

“I am a little jealous of you, Max.”

“Oh? Why is that?”

“I know you and Jarod irritate each other, but still I sense a connection between you two. Whenever you’re together, it seems like you’re involved in some kind of private joke. And the way you finish each other’s sentences, like you know what each other is thinking. Maybe I’m just paranoid. I don’t know. And that stunt you pulled this afternoon. How did you know he would take it lightly? And why wasn’t he outraged by it?”

“You’re right, you ARE paranoid,” Miss Parker laughed. “Don’t beat yourself up with this guy. It’s not worth the heartache. He probably has a girl at every port. Give him the old “I just want to be friends speech” before he gives it to you.” Miss Parker advised. ‘I can’t believe I’m giving her advice! I should just put this girl out of her misery and tell her the truth.’ Miss Parker thought.

The two women talked some more and tried to figure out the case a little longer. Jarod phoned Rachel and told her he couldn’t get out of his responsibilities at the hospital.

Miss Parker dragged herself back into her hotel room. She was a little on edge from the dreadful feeling of this murder case. She glanced at her watch. 3:30 a.m. 6:00 in the morning is going to come awfully quick. She cursed at the thought of their morning run. She went into the bedroom and caught sight of the lump on the bed. She pulled the covers back so she could slip under them without disturbing the sleeping man. She caressed Jarod’s cheek and kissed his lips gently before lying on her sides, her back to him. Immediately, he sought her and wrapped his arm around her waist, nuzzling the back of her neck. She welcomed the security and tried to get some sleep.

********

“Good morning ladies! And gentleman!” Frank’s voice boomed across the land, well, it sounded like it to Miss Parker and Rachel.

“Good morning, Frank!” Broots echoed back. They remembered each other from the club.

‘Where do they get their energy?’ the women grumbled silently. This morning, Miss Parker let Jarod sleep in a little and John and Malone were called to a meeting with the Director, so Broots was volunteered to keep an eye on them. Miss Parker insisted he just run along with them. She was surprised he agreed so easily.

They ran their couple of miles and stopped at the bench where Frank rested. He offered them water, which they readily accepted. Broots had his own supply so didn’t need any from Frank.

“I told my son about your investigation of Amber’s murder and he said he was willing to tell you anything he knows. I’m meeting him right now at the parking lot. Why don’t you come with me to meet him and talk with him? It’s just another few hundred yards from here,” the old man smiled, “you
still got it in you?”

“Only if I get to walk,” Miss Parker complained.

They walked over to the sole car that was parked behind a clump of trees where a man stood. It was odd that the two back doors were opened. They got to the vehicle and all of a sudden, Rachel and Miss Parker swayed and felt like they were going to fall down. Broots caught Miss Parker and Frank’s son caught Rachel.

“Wh-what’s happening to me?” Miss Parker asked distantly.

Broots was overcome with fear. ‘Oh no, oh no.’ he chanted. He looked at Frank who advanced at him smiling menacingly, while Frank’s son pushed the unconscious Rachel in the back seat. “Wake up, Miss Parker,” he said nervously. Miss Parker was slumped in his arms. Broots struggled, but he finally managed to take something from his pocket that would save the lives of Rachel and his friend. Frank advanced, grabbed Miss Parker, and punched Broots in the face, knocking him out of consciousness.
Part 9 by Rachel
DISCLAIMER: None of the characters belong to me--just borrowing them.
Thank you for not suing.


"Double" Pretending
part IX
by Rachel




Angelo paced nervously, mumbling about Miss Parker. Sydney tried his best to calm him.

„What about Miss Parker, Angelo?" Sydney asked full of concern.

„Danger."

Sydney called Jarod immediately and he arrived in minutes from the hotel suite that he and Miss Parker were staying in.

Angelo lunged at Jarod, grabbing his shirt, pleading desperately, „Help her."

„We’ll find her, Angelo, we’ll find her." He responded urgently. „Where’s Mr. Broots?"

**************

Broots slowly came to from the old man’s knock out. He was sitting up against a tree, making it look like he was resting. Then it hit him what just happened and he got up quickly. He ignored the dull pain on his face and he began to run. He ran with so much determination and focus, you could almost hear someone yelling, „Ruuuuun, Broooots, ruuuuuuunnn!" He had to get back to the hotel room and find Jarod.

**************

Rachel and Miss Parker woke up to the stench of a dirty apartment. They were both on the same bed, their arms handcuffed to the bedpost above their heads. They heard arguing in the other room. Miss Parker frustratedly rattled the cuffs. „Damn!" She looked over at Rachel and asked if she was okay.

„I’m fine, so far. What are we going to do? No one knows where we are."

„Genius-boy will find us. We have to believe that." Miss Parker said confidently. Rachel shook her head. Even in trouble she was calling Jarod names but Rachel was amazed at the faith Miss Parker had in him.

„It makes sense now. The mirror image of father and son," Rachel contemplated. „The mirror image was of Frank as a boy."

„Those bastards are going to pay for this." Miss Parker said angrily.

***********************

„Malone here"

„They’re taken. We have to find them."

„Jarod? What the hell do mean they’re taken? Aren’t you supposed to keep an eye on them? Why don’t you know where they are?"

„I’m working on it!"

****************

Broots burst into the room panting. He leaned on the door post to catch his breath. Jarod, Sydney, and Angelo hurried to him.

„It’s Frank, and his son," Broots managed to spit out. „They took Rachel and Miss Parker."

„Where?"

„I don’t know, Frank knocked me out." Then a burst of energy came upon Broots and he bolted to the computer. „I stuck that tracer you made on Miss Parker’s skin, Jarod. We should be able to pinpoint their location." Broots typed frantically on the keyboard but couldn’t get through to the system. „Come on!" He banged the laptop, but nothing. Jarod ordered him to move over. He made the thing, he should be able to figure it out. His heart was pounding so hard, he couldn’t think. His concentration was being clouded by concern for the woman he loved. „Damn!" He banged the laptop, but nothing. Angelo grabbed the computer and with a few, smooth strokes of the fingers, gained access. He smiled at the flashing dot displayed on the Atlanta map.

„Let’s ride, men!"

**********************

„We can’t wait. We have to get out of here now." Miss Parker said.

„I have an idea, but it’s a painful one." Rachel suggested.

„I have one, too. Can you say dislocated thumb?" Miss Parker smirked.

Rachel smirked back and nodded. „You know that trick, too, huh?"

„I’m familiar with it." Miss Parker responded with a dreaded look on her face, thinking back when she was stuck in a shack with a lunatic and Jarod.

**********************

Jarod drove through the city in a rush, but he was still careful to obey all the traffic rules.

„Go faster!" Angelo urged.

„I can’t go any faster! I’d have the whole Atlanta PD on my tail! Jarod looked at Broots, Broots looked at Jarod. They both had the same look of understanding. Jarod punched the gas and sped through town like a cat with a tail on fire.

Malone, John got the call about the women’s location and they also bolted out of the office and headed to the apartment.

******************

Frank and his son, Jimmy, entered the bedroom where Rachel and Miss Parker were. They were holding blindfolds and gag cloths. „That’s it, ladies, be scared. The more you fight it, the better it’ll be for us." They came around the bed and hovered over them, Frank on Miss Parker’s side and Jimmy on Rachel’s side. Jimmy hesitated a little.

„Gag her and blindfold her now!" Frank ordered.

„I-I can’t do it."

„Do it or I’ll beat you again!"

Jimmy obeyed, fear and loathing in his eyes.

Frank turned to Miss Parker and he smiled at her. „You look scared, Max. Having my way with you is going to be pleasurable," he sneered.

„Not today, not ever." Miss Parker bit out. She and Rachel slipped their left hand out of the handcuff and flung the loose metal, hitting their assailants in the face. Like a choreographed dance, the two women kicked, jabbed, dodged, and punched until the two men lay face down on the bed. Miss Parker quickly found the keys to the cuffs and they secured the men to the bedpost. Jimmy began to wail. „He made me do it! He made me kill those women! I didn’t want any part of it!"

„I just wanted us to share something as father and son." Frank explained.

Miss Parker and Rachel looked at each other, disgusted at the two. The two men continued their pathetic excuses. The women have had it.

„SHUT UP!" They voiced simultaneously and they jabbed Frank and Jimmy on the back of the head with their elbow, knocking them unconscious.

The door flew open and Jarod, followed by the FBI team and the Atlanta Police, rushed in with guns drawn. The women stood calmly at the foot of the bed.

„What took you so long?" Miss Parker chided. Jarod fought rushing to Miss Parker and holding her tightly to him. She gave him a quick nod toward Rachel and he tended to Rachel’s hand first. Broots, Angelo, and Sydney came to Miss Parker’s side, all relieved that the ordeal was over.

The police carted off Frank and Jimmy. Malone touched Jarod and Rachel on the shoulder as a sign of recognition of a job well done. He walked over to Miss Parker and extended his hand. She smiled and took it.

„You’re right, Max, you are good at what you do. Good luck." Malone left with the others.

„How did you find us so quickly?" Miss Parker asked.

„Broots here placed a tracer on you." Sydney explained, patting a satisfied Broots on the back.

„That’s what that irritating burr was on my side. You almost got too personal there, Broots." Miss Parker said warningly, reaching in her shirt to pull out the small button that was attached near her breast.

„I-I’m sorry, Miss Parker, y-you, I-I was holding you when you passed out, and….I’m sorry, Miss Parker, I-I didn’t mean to….."

„It’s okay, Broots," Miss Parker smiled in gratitude. „Thank you," she said simply. Miss Parker cradled her left hand and headed toward the door. „Let’s go home."

Jarod couldn’t stand it, he needed to tend to her. „I need to see your hand, Max." It wasn’t a request, it was an order. The defiant look on Miss Parker’s face worried Rachel.

Sydney took the hint and ushered everyone out the door. Rachel was a little hesitant, wondering if it would be smart to leave those two alone in the same room.

Jarod inspected Miss Parker’s hand without looking at her face or saying a word. She looked up at him, smiling a little bit, knowing that he was still recovering from the event. There was a mixture of emotions showing on his face--from relief, to concern, to love, to a hint of anger--probably mad at himself for not being there for her. It could also be that she can handle herself and she didn’t need him to save her in the end.

„Ow!" she yelped, searching his face for explanation.

„That’s for that prank you pulled yesterday." He was finally beginning to relax. He set her thumb back in place and rubbed it gently.

Miss Parker saw her opportunity to completely ease his distress. She got up on her toes and kissed him quickly on the lips. „I still need you," she whispered like a little girl explaining her way out of trouble. Rachel was right; those two seem to know what each other is thinking and feeling.

He looked in her eyes, almost in a reprimanding way. He didn’t have to say anything.

„I promise," she said playfully, „no more baiting killers without your permission."

She wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly. He buried his face in her hair, vowing silently to keep her safe forever. „I love you," he whispered, receiving a tighter hold on him in response.

She kissed him quickly again and they headed out the door.

„Do me a favor, Jarod," she asked.

„What is it?"

„Say goodbye to Rachel. She needs closure."

Jarod took a deep breath and grinned. „Can I kiss her goodbye?"

„No. The poor girl has been through enough!" she laughed.

„Laugh now, Parker. Just wait till you find out what your next pretend is," he said with that sly grin of his.

She looked up at him suddenly, the smile now erased and replaced with dread and worry.


THE END!


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