“It’s purple,” Raya interjected. “That’s my favorite color.”

  “Oooh,” Toya said. “Do you know how to make it?”

  “I do,” Phillipa answered. “The ingredients are water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and dried lavender. Some people add food coloring to make it a vibrant purple.”

  “We’re gonna have to make it,” Joi said. “I bet Daddy would love some.”

  “What about me?” Kyle asked his niece. “I might want to sample this purple lemonade myself.”

  Joi chuckled. “We’ll give you some, too.”

  The server returned to take their orders.

  While they waited for their food to come, the twins and Raya talked about their schools and the different sports they played.

  “They’re getting along well,” Kyle said.

  Phillipa nodded in agreement. “Looks like it.”

  “I always knew you’d be a wonderful mother.”

  Her eyebrows rose in surprise. “Why do you say that? I’d never held a baby until Raya was born. I wasn’t sure I even liked kids back then. But when she was born, it was love at first sight.”

  “I thought so because of the way you responded to them whenever we had to go into a home. You always kept stuffed animals in the squad car. I also noticed how you’d kneel down whenever you talked to them. It was like coming down to their level.”

  She nodded. “I didn’t want to traumatize them further. It was easier for me. When I had Raya, I called my mother at least every other day with questions.”

  “You should’ve seen me the first time I held the twins. I think I almost gave Helena a heart attack.”

  Phillipa chuckled. “Oh, goodness...”

  “Uncle K almost dropped me,” Toya interjected. “Daddy told us that he was so nervous because we were really tiny babies. He said Uncle K wouldn’t touch us after that.”

  She saw the look of embarrassment on Kyle’s face and broke into laughter.

  “Really?” he said. “You’re gonna laugh at me like that?”

  “Yes,” Phillipa responded.

  The server came with a huge tray laden with burgers and tacos.

  Kyle blessed the food before they dived in.

  Phillipa sampled her shrimp taco. “Joi, you’re right. This is delicious.”

  “You should try one of the burgers next time,” she replied before biting into her cheeseburger. “And add mushrooms. Super good.”

  “My birthday is next weekend,” Raya announced. “We’re going to eat pizza and go to the movies. After that we’re going back to my grandparent’s house for birthday cake, ice cream and a sleepover. Would y’all like to come?”

  “Yeah,” the twins said in unison. “Our dad’s birthday is on Sunday. We just have to be back for the cookout.”

  Raya looked at her mother. “Is it okay, Mama?”

  “Sure, it’s fine. The more the merrier.”

  “I only invited two girls from my school,” Raya said. “I don’t have that many friends here in Charlotte.”

  “Well, now you have two more,” Joi responded. “Toya and I are cool. We don’t have drama.”

  Phillipa glanced up at Kyle and smiled. “I love these girls,” she murmured.

  Spending this time with the twins only reinforced her determination to find out the truth about their mother.

  * * *

  “I like Mr. Kyle,” Raya blurted when they were on the way home.

  Phillipa glanced over at her daughter in surprise. “Really?” She wasn’t sure how Raya was going to respond to Kyle, especially once she learned of their past relationship.

  She nodded. “He’s really nice.”

  “Yes, he is.”

  “Mama, why didn’t you marry him?”

  Phillipa had to stop herself from slamming on the brakes. “H-how did you know about that?”

  “I heard you and Grandma talking about it.”

  She chewed on her bottom lip as she tried to come up with a suitable response. “It was a long time ago, Raya. You know you shouldn’t go around listening to grown-up conversations.”

  “I know.” After a moment, she said, “I really like the twins, too. Thanks for letting them come to the party.”

  “It’s my pleasure. Joi and Toya seem really sweet.”

  Raya nodded. “I think we’re gonna be good friends.”

  Phillipa smiled. She hoped for the same.

  “Toya said something about her mom dying when she was little,” Raya said softly. “Did you know about that?”

  “Yes, baby.”

  “I don’t ever want to lose you, Mama. I don’t think I’d ever get over it.”

  She reached over and took her daughter’s hand in her own. Phillipa gave it a gentle squeeze. “That’s why it’s important for us to enjoy every day the good Lord gives us.” Despite feeling sometimes like the Lord wasn’t hearing her prayers, she was grateful to Him for every day she had with her daughter.

  “You sound like Grandma.”

  She laughed. “She’d love to hear you say that.”

  Phillipa was glad Raya didn’t stay focused on her and Kyle. She didn’t want to discuss her relationship woes with her daughter.

  A part of her wished she could fully erase her feelings for Kyle. Although she still felt a deep connection to him, one that seemed to grow as she’d enjoyed lunch with him and his nieces, Phillipa wasn’t sure she’d ever be able to trust him again.

  But more than that, she couldn’t help but wonder if she was allowing pride to get in the way.

  As soon as they arrived home, Raya rushed inside to tell her grandmother about Joi and Toya.

  “I’m so happy to hear that you’re making new friends,” Bethany said.

  Raya sniffed the air. “Grandma, did you make chocolate chip cookies?”

  “I did. Why don’t you go upstairs and get your bath out of the way. I’ll have a plate of cookies and milk waiting for you when you’re done.”

  “Yessss!” Raya yelled as she ran up the stairs.

  “You’ve just made her day,” Phillipa said.

  “Does she know about their mother?” Bethany asked.

  “One of the girls mentioned that she died when they were little. Raya has no idea that she was murdered or that I’m investigating her death. I’d like to keep it that way. Kyle said he’d talk to the girls.”

  “You saw Kyle, too?”

  “He was at the park with the twins.”

  “Then you all had lunch together.”

  Phillipa nodded. “We did, Mom.”

  Grinning, Bethany inquired, “Did you have a good time?”

  She followed her mother into the kitchen. “Actually yes, but don’t go reading more into it. We did it for the girls, so they could get to know one another.”

  “Is that what you’re telling yourself?” Bethany inquired. “Here...have a cookie.”

  Phillipa took a bite and chewed slowly as she carefully considered her mother’s question.

  * * *

  Kyle had thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Phillipa and Raya. It pleased him that the girls had gotten along so well.

  After dropping Joi and Toya off, he drove home, where he spent the rest of the evening organizing the files in his office.

  After a dinner of leftovers and a much-needed shower after the day at the park, he settled down in the living room to watch television, although his mind was elsewhere. As usual, Kyle couldn’t get Phillipa out of his thoughts. He was attracted to her even more, despite his efforts to resist all emotion where she was concerned.

  It was a great to spend some time Phillipa outside of work and in a more relaxed environment. Tomorrow they would be back at work soon enough.

  He appreciated the effort she’d put into Helena’s case so far. Kyle prayed that Jon would not be devastated even more by what Phillipa had found out about Helena’s past. His brother had already suffered more than any man should have to.

  Kyle recalled the point where Phillipa was laughing at him. The memory made him smile. He knew it was all in good fun, and he’d always loved the sound of her laughter. It started off low, then rose as it overtook her. She’d always put a hand over her mouth whenever she couldn’t seem to control it.

  He hadn’t realized just how much he had missed hearing her laugh until today. Kyle hoped they would have more moments like those in the future.

  He stayed downstairs until it was almost midnight then retreated to his bedroom.

  Kyle didn’t go to bed right away. He sat up reading for a while.

  He finally decided to put the book away when his eyelids grew heavy. His eyes landed on a photograph of his parents.

  “I want a marriage like yours,” he whispered.

  His father was gone, and his mother was finally starting to see someone socially. She and Pastor Brady were going on an official date in a few days.

  Kyle was happy for her. It wasn’t his wish or Jon’s for their mother to be alone. She deserved more.

  He felt the same way about Phillipa. Only he hoped that she’d eventually come to realize that he could be the man in her life who would make her smile and fill her with laughter.

  Chapter Twelve

  “Clara was born in June,” Phillipa announced on Monday. She’d walked over to Kyle’s desk to inform him of her latest discovery. “Not March like we initially believed. This is a copy of her real birth certificate.”

  She handed the document to Kyle.

  “I’m beginning to think that everything about Helena was a lie,” he said. “Her name, birthday... Who knows what else.”

  He sounded a bit irritated. Phillipa knew it was because he was thinking of his brother and how he would be affected by these new revelations. “I’m convinced that she was running away from something. We just have to find out what it was and if her past caught up with her.”

  “What are you planning to do now?” he asked.

  “I’m not really sure. We don’t have any solid leads—and that really frustrates me.”

  “Phillipa, you’ve gotten further than any other investigator with this case,” Kyle stated. “You’re really good at this job, so don’t give up. If anybody has a chance at solving this case, it’s you.”

  She smiled at him. “I appreciate you saying that. I’m not ready to give up. I just feel like I’m missing an important piece somewhere.”

  Phillipa walked across the tile flooring to her desk, which was cluttered with folders, notes and photos. She picked up a picture of Helena and drew a ragged breath. “I’m doing the best I can,” she whispered. “To be honest, I’m feeling a bit helpless at the moment. But don’t worry. I’m going to find your killer.”

  Phillipa sat down, mentally reviewing everything she’d learned so far. As usual, she was left with nothing but more questions.

  She peered at Kyle who was on the telephone talking. Phillipa wanted his insight, but he was working on another cold case with some strong leads. That file was his priority at the moment.

  A shiver ran through Phillipa as thoughts about Kyle flooded her head. He was the man she’d always envisioned as her happily ever after. He hadn’t changed much over the years; he’d matured. That much she could tell. If only he hadn’t thrown their future away.

  * * *

  The following Saturday, Phillipa treated Raya and several of her friends to pizza and a movie.

  “I can’t believe you turned down buttered popcorn and you had a salad instead of pizza,” Raya said as they exited the theater. “You love that stuff.”

  “I do, but I haven’t been to the gym since we arrived, sweetie,” Phillipa responded with a chuckle. “I got on the scale this morning and I’ve put on five pounds.”

  Raya shrugged. “Mama, you look great.”

  Joi and the rest of the girls nodded in agreement.

  “You girls are so sweet,” Phillipa said with a smile. “I’m saving my calories for birthday cake.”

  They headed to her SUV.

  Phillipa unlocked the doors. “Sergeant Stevenson, I thought that was you,” came a voice from behind them. Phillipa turned to see Paula standing there. “What a precious little girl. Is that your daughter?”

  “Miss Johnson,” Phillipa said.

  “I saw my girls with you.” She held out her arms for the twins.

  Joi and Toya jumped out of the car and rushed to Paula.

  Phillipa ushered Raya inside the vehicle, then watched as the twins hugged her.

  “What are you girls doing here?” Paula asked.

  “We went to the movies,” Joi responded. “It’s Raya’s birthday. Daddy’s birthday is tomorrow.”

  “Yes, I know.”

  “Now we’re going to her house for a sleepover,” Toya announced. “See you later.”

  “Yeah, see you later,” Joi said.

  When they were back in the SUV, Phillipa headed to the driver side.

  “How are things coming along with Helena’s case?” Paula asked, following her.

  “Fine,” she responded. She didn’t want to discuss her work on open cases with anyone outside the department, and especially while she had a vehicle filled with young girls. “If you will excuse us, we need to get going.”

  “Oh, but I—”

  Phillipa cut her off by saying, “Feel free to call me during office hours.” However, she didn’t have any intention of telling Paula anything.

  * * *

  Sunday after church, Kyle headed to Jon’s to help his mother prepare for the cookout. They were celebrating his brother’s birthday.

  Amelie retrieved a covered pan laden with raw fish from the refrigerator and set it down on the counter. “I sure hope Paula don’t come over here trying to take over. I’m not in the mood for her today. I had a wonderful time at church, and I don’t want her to ruin it.”

  “I don’t know why Jon invited her in the first place,” Kyle responded. “Sometimes I wonder if he likes the attention.”

  “I think it’s because of Helena.”

  Frowning, he asked, “What do you mean?”

  “Helena loved Paula. Maybe he thinks this is what she’d want him to do,” Amelie said.

  “You’re probably right,” he responded, then picked up a can of beans. “I’ll make the baked beans.”

  Amelie seemed caught up in her preparation of the rest of the food, seasoning the meat for the grill. “Thanks, sweetie.”

  He placed a large pot on the stove.

  “Have you decided if you’re staying in the Cold Case Unit?” she asked.

  “How did you know I was thinking about leaving?”

  “I figured now that Phillipa is back, you’d want to transfer out.”

  Kyle grinned. “We get along, Mom. There’s no need for me to leave.”

  Amelie cut her eyes at him. “You know what I mean, son. I know you’re taking that sergeants’ exam. I know you’d rather be in Robbery.”

  “Is there anything you don’t know?” he asked with a chuckle as he poured the beans into the pot.

  “I invited Phillipa and her family over for the cookout,” his mother announced. “Maybe you can try and work things out.”

  “I don’t think it’ll happen.” Kyle had considered inviting Phillipa himself but wasn’t sure how she’d feel about it. He decided to leave it up to Jon or his mother. He knew one of them would reach out to her, and sure enough, Amelie had extended the invite when Phillipa dropped the girls off that morning. She’d declined, saying that they were taking Raya to her favorite restaurant for dinner.

  His mother glanced over her shoulder at him. “Now, I know you’re not about to give up on something you want. This is not my child talking like that.”

  Kyle chuckled. “We’re in a good space right now. I’m not going to mess it up. We both want to focus on Helena’s case. That’s the priority right now.”

  “I understand.” Amelie began making hamburger patties. “Just don’t give up. I know Phillipa still cares for you.”

  Kyle added barbecue sauce, a family recipe, to the beans. “If so, she’s not ready to give me another chance, Mom. I’m going to give her the space she needs.”

  Amelie nodded. “It can’t hurt.”

  Two hours later, Kyle was outside on the patio firing up the grill. The twins were outside sitting by the pool, while Kyle’s mother moved about the kitchen applying the finishing touches to the meat.

  When she was done, Jon carried it outside to the grill. “Here you go.”

  Kyle saw his niece sitting by herself. He walked over to the lounge chair. “What’s up, Joi?”

  “Nothing,” she responded.

  “Where’s Toya?”

  “She went up to her room to play video games.”

  “What’s wrong?” Kyle asked, noting the unhappy look on her face.

  “I wish God had let my mommy stay with us. Daddy would be so happy if she were here to celebrate his birthday.”

  “We all hate when someone has to leave us behind,” he said. “I wish my dad and your mom were still with us. I miss them both, but then I remember that they’re in Heaven. That’s not a bad place to be, don’t you think?”

  “I guess not. It’s never a bad thing when you get a chance to hang out with the Father.”

  He smiled. “Your mother will always be with Jon and with you and your sister. She lives in your heart.”

  “In my heart, she can never die,” Joi said.

  “Exactly.”

  “Uncle K, I hope you and Miss Philli will find the person who killed my mom.”

  “We’re doing everything we can to do so. I promise you.”

  “We didn’t say anything around Raya.”

  “I appreciate that.”

  “Does she know what her mom does?” Joi asked.

 

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