The Case of the Owl Feathers, a Gold Key, and Dead Chrysanthemums
Final Chapter 27: June and B.L.AiR., her AI companion solve a mystery
The next sound I heard had to be somebody trying to get through the barricade at the front door. They were pushing and pounding. Then there was a scuffle, and I heard, “Police”, and something I couldn’t catch. I the next sound was of heavy footsteps running away. Finally, there was the sound of hurried footsteps approaching our barricade in front of the kitchen/dining door. They tried to pushing it open and met resistance.
“This is the police. Open up.”
Relief flooded my body. Relief was the look I saw on everyone’s faces as we unearthed the door letting the police in. My legs began shaking. I was overwhelmed with the feelings of terror I had set aside, until now. I sat down on the floor, making a little strangled sound in my throat. One woman, dressed like a cook, rushed to my side.
“Thank god you’re here. She did it. She saved us,” as the cook pointed to me.
It was over, the police had caught Trevor and his men that night. The truth was out, and there were hugs all around. Everyone was safe, including Sam and Dad, thank goodness.
Because I had led everyone on a merry chase, the group in the living room remained captive — until the police siren sounded — at which point the intruders became distracted, and pandemonium ensued. When Trevor and his men tried to escape, they found the door barricaded, which slowed them down enough for the police to get into position. My Dad, Sam, Mr. Mateson, and his wife — everyone was safe. The bodyguard who had suffered a bullet wound pulled through.
After my initial feelings of relief and joy that the threat was past, I began to reflect on my whole journey. I felt a little thrill and a pride of accomplishment. I did it, I solved the mystery and saw it through to the end. With help from Blair, Marciella, and Feathers, of course, and my Dad and beautiful Sam. The timely appearance of the police — sent by Blair — was also crucial.
But it was more than pride. I felt a growing sense of who I am — the person who solves mysteries, the person who cares about justice. I felt vindicated. So, what if I’m young? I can do whatever I set out to do.
Once Sam and I were alone, we hugged each other. I could smell the slight floral scent of her perfume. “Thank God you’re okay. How do you feel?” asked Sam, smiling at me as we stood toe to toe, having just kissed — this time without interruption.
“I’m glad to be alive. And I feel a bit lucky, honestly. The warmth I felt from my open heart spread outward, and I felt my cheeks becoming hot. Energy flowed through me, quickened by her touch.
“Anything else?” Sam said, smiling directly into my open heart.
“I feel more like myself than I have ever felt before. I feel like I’m more of who I am.”
“Pretty good then?” she said laughing. Her reddish-blond curls running wild — her face was ablaze with youthful energy combined with loving emanations — all aimed at me.
“Yeah, but can we do that thing again?” I pointed to her lips and then to mine.
“You mean this.” We embraced. I was smitten, sprung, skitter doo, bum over noggin, or just plain dope sick — in love with my life.
