1 comment

Suspense Crime Mystery

This story contains themes or mentions of sexual violence.

I remember taking a deep breath and tasting the salty air when I slowly walked down the wharf toward the sail boat at the end.  “Hmmm not a bad length”. It had been quiet and empty there. The sound of my pumps echoed in the night air mixed with the rhythmic sound of the sea water that lapped constantly on the side of the dock. It had a sensual sound that I quite enjoyed and I revelled in that moment. The naughtiness of what I was about to do. I had checked my pocketbook to make sure I was at the address my client had given me and put it back in my purse. I wondered what the night would bring. Every job that I am hired for is always a little different, sometimes it is over so quickly and with others I take my time. I like the long jobs... Either, way they all end the same way. As I walked closer to the massive domicile a small bead of sweat had begun to form on my neck that tingled my skin as it gathered.


Once on board I had paused to steady myself on the smooth polished railing. The moon had shimmered over the water and lit up the bay with a buttery golden glow. I had heard the crickets and bullfrogs calling out into the night hoping for mates that may or may not have come. Raucous laughter had spilled out of an open window of the local waterfront pub but was of no concern being that far away. “Take a deep breath Luv.” I had said quietly to myself. I had felt my pulse quicken, quivering with the unknown and steadied myself. The waves were still lapping, rocking the boat gently in what seemed to be a never ending sensual embrace. Taking it all in, the smells, the feel of the breeze in my hair, the sounds... That was when I heard soft music playing down below the deck, so down I went descending the spiral stairs into what, I could never tell.


I could smell leather, sea air and musky sweat. It took a moment for my eyes to adjust to the lower lighting. My heart quickened and the small bead of sweat started to slide lower and tickled my collar bone. I looked around and saw handsome dark brown and deep red furnishings. It was a large area with 3 doors leading to what must have been rooms beyond. There was a telescope set up in one corner by a large open window pointing skyward. The lens had dangled and swayed slowly as if it had been recently used. Charts were rolled up neatly on one side of the wall. Brass fixings and deep green plants were peppered throughout with sumptuous furniture made of... of course... leather. He saw me then, when I stepped down from the last step. He was standing by a door, half naked and looked genuinely surprised. “Good.” I remember thinking. “Hello” I purred and smiled wickedly. I had sauntered by, and pulled him along as I led him to an open door which turned out luckily to be a cabin. “Are we alone?” I asked. He nodded and fell back on the bed clumsily. I had felt the excitement emanating from him. Confusion mixed with awe etched across his face. He could not believe his luck. “I’ve never done this before” he had stammered. I smiled again, pushed him down on the bed and expertly cuffed him to the first thing I was able to find. This time it had been a brass piece once used for navigation but now welded to the wall to serve as bric a brac for pomp and circumstance. He gaped at the cuffs and looked bewildered but did not make any fuss. Standard procedure for my safety of course but he did not need to know that. I had paused to contemplate my next move. I remember seeing a glint in his eye. “Go on” he had said, practically panting as he tried to remain in control. His desire had been physically obvious. I took my time and I must say he lasted longer than I thought. I had peeled off the layers so slowly and felt him writhe against my restraints. There is always that moment in their eyes when their lust turns to doubt. I like this part the best. I felt him struggle against the cuffs. But it wouldn’t be over that quickly... oh no my pet. The bead of sweat clung on for one last moment, wavered and then fell where it ruptured and was no more.


Hours later I pack my bag and make sure my cuffs are in place and ready for my next job. I leave him where he is on the bed his pale skin illuminating in the moonlight which twists his features into a grotesque looking mask. I see the telescope there in the corner and go over to take a look. Nothing but darkness. I leave the mess and chaos behind me and climb back up the spiral staircase smelling the leather of the furniture as I ascend. Outside once again in the fresh air. Nice. The railing still feels smooth but slick and sticky now. I look down and see the issue. “Hmmm I’m getting sloppy..” Stepping from the sail boat I bend down to wash my hands in the cold sea water. I taste the salty air on the tip of my tongue once more and slowly walk from the wharf. The crickets and bullfrogs are silent now. Perhaps they are tucked away safely back in their Homes. Away from the predators. My pumps echo in the night mixed with the rhythmic sound of the sea water lapping constantly on the side of the dock. Back at my car the boat is visible clearly. My eyes fall on the railing where I can see a deep red smear glinting in the moonlight making a stain on the otherwise perfect facade. The rumble of a nearing rain storm sounds in the distance. Yes... that should wash it off quite nicely. No worries there. I dial my client’s number to inform them our contract is fulfilled then drive off to the city where my next job will be. During the long drive the sky opens up washing away the scene which should buy me some time. Once in town I see I will be early so I stop for a coffee to watch the sun rise. I walk in smelling the fresh brewed coffee and I smile. Oh good, his girlfriend is still on her shift. The phone rings as she passes me my cup and we exchange smiles. I hesitate going out the door looking up the next address in my pocket book. I hear her sobs begin. Today will be a good day. I can tell.

June 05, 2020 15:55

You must sign up or log in to submit a comment.

1 comment

Njabulo Dube
20:28 Feb 04, 2022

great piece..enjoyed it

Reply

Show 0 replies
RBE | Illustrated Short Stories | 2024-06

Bring your short stories to life

Fuse character, story, and conflict with tools in Reedsy Studio. 100% free.