DARK PAST
FRANKIE.
It's noon. The sun beats down relentlessly, its heat unforgiving even though summer's officially over. I've learned to adapt to this reality in the Philippines, where the concept of seasons is vastly different from what I experienced in London. Three years have passed since I made the decision to leave behind the familiarity of my Law degree and start anew here.
My relatives once lived in this city, and their stories drew me in. But every time I introduce myself, I'm met with a curious gaze, as if people are trying to unravel the mystery that comes with my surname – Sawyer. They whisper about the Sawyer mansion, about the night in the 1940s when something inexplicable happened, leaving behind only questions and speculation.
I wear a poker face, a shield to deflect the prying eyes and whispered conversations. It's exhausting, being a living enigma. People see me as a ghost from the past, a relic of a family shrouded in mystery. But I'm just me, being a detective trying to make a name for herself in this city. The irony isn't lost on me – I ended up becoming a detective, uncovering secrets and solving mysteries, instead of pursuing a Doctor or a Lawyer. I have degree but maybe that line isn't for me or maybe I just don't want to try.
As I walk through the streets, the heat wraps around me like a damp blanket. I think about my life here, about the cases I've solved, and the ones I haven't. The Sawyer name may be synonymous with mystery, but I'm determined to forget my own path, one that's defined by my own strengths and weaknesses, not just the whispers of the past.
"Ate Frankie!" A little voice from other side of that street shouted
I roamed my eyes around and saw a familiar little girl, waving her hands on my direction. She has a big smile on her face. I waited the traffic light turned to red before I walked into her direction. Her smile grow bigger as I stop in front of her.
"Hi Ate! Where's daddy?" Alani asked. She's Richie's daughter.
"He's on the station your father is kinda busy so.. I'm here." I said, my eyes caught the little girl besides her looking at me.
"Ate Frankie this is Brielle, she's my friend. Bri it's ate Frankie you know she a police, and it's really cool." Alani proudly said
The little girl step forward looking at me as if I'm not real. "Is your eyes is real?" The little girl asked
I heard Alani chuckles. "Yeah..."
"I told you she looks like a Disney Princess" Alani happily said
Seriously?
I sighed. "Okay sunshine, stop. Let's go." I carried her bag, the car is on the other side.
"Wait, ate Bri's mom isn't here yet. Can we wait?" Alani asked with her poppy eyes.
Damn Richie!
"Alright, but not here it's hot." I said. "Let's go grab some ice cream."
The two little girl happily jumped. We crossed the street and went to the ice cream shop nearby. Alani and Brielle chattered excitedly about their day, I just let them. We reached the ice cream shop, and the girls' eyes widened as they scanned the colorful options.
"Ate Frankie, can I get cookies and cream?" Alani asked, bouncing up and down. Brielle nodded enthusiastically.
"Okay, but don't tell your father I spoiled you." Alani giggled, and we ordered our ice cream.
As we waited for our treats, Brielle turned to me with a curious expression.
"Ate Frankie, do you know Elsa po?" She asked
I frowned curiously. "No..." I answered
"She looks like Elsa, right? I told her to wear blue contact lense." Alani jumped in
Dang. She's really Richie's daughter.
"She's still look like Elsa even her eyes is yellow." Alani response
I just shook my head because of the conversation. The ice cream arrived, and girls still talking while eating. After finishing our treats, we waited for Brielle's ride to arrive. As we stood outside, Alani leaned in and whispered.
"Ate Frankie, you're the best!"
I ruffled her hair. "Just don't tell your father."
She nodded smiling. We wait for another couple of minutes before a black SUV stop in front of the store where were sitting. Alani stood up as she saw a woman went out the car. She's wearing a fitted navy blue pantsuit with a crisp white blouse and high heels.
"Mommy!" Alani run towards the woman
"Baby!" The woman smiled holding her daughter. "What are you doing here hm?"
"Hm, we eat ice cream po... I'm with Alani and Ate Frankie." Brielle said with a little tone
The woman looked at to our direction. Her brown eyes met mine, for a moment she looked surprised but smile after.
"Oh! You're the detective from last week at Harkins Hotel." She said. I just nodded. "Well, I didn't thank you enough. Don't you mind joining for lunch?" She asked
"Thanks Mrs. Harkin, but we need to leave." I simply said, I don't want to stay another minutes outside.
"Alright, then. Thanks for taking care of my daughter." She said
I just nodded, and hold Alani's hand after she said goodbye to Brielle. I was about to walked when the woman spoke again making my eyebrow raised a little, but I remind wearing my poker face.
"And I'm not Mrs. Harkin. It's Ms. Vergara." She added
I just nodded again, and turned my back before Alani and I walked into my car. I drove to the station, Richie is there. It took couple of minutes before we arrived.
"Daddy!" Alani run towards to her father as we enter
Richie smiled and carried her daughter. "There you're my princess." I handed him Alani's bag. ""Hey, thanks for picking her up," Richie said, giving me a nod.
"Yeah." I just simply said and went to my table. I need to work.
"Hey! There you're Frankie!" I sighed as I closed my eyes when I heard Maverick voice.
Damn, when do I have a time for a peace!
"It's lunch time..." He said sitting next to me, but there's enough space.
"I just eat." I uttered
"Nope. You're not even smell food more looks like a Gas." He sneered
"Fvck you!" I exclaimed
"Come on Frankie..."
I took a deep breath and looked at him. I know I can't stop him.
"Fine." I uttered before standing up
We went to a the kitchen inside our department. The food is already there, well usual it's noodles.
"Seriously, dragging me here for usual noodles." I said
"What? Is there anything you want?" He asked
"Yeah.. To punch your face right now." I determined
Maverick just laughed before eating his food. I just shook my head, and eat mine.
—
Hours later. The smell hit us like a punch to the gut as we stepped inside the house. We got a report about the smelly house, it's already past 5p.m. Maverick covered his nose with his shirt, while I pulled out my handkerchief to filter the air. Richie followed closely behind, his eyes scanning the dimly lit interior.
"Where's the source of the smell?" Maverick asked, his voice muffled.
"I check the kitchen." Maverick said.
"I go upstairs. Sawyer check the living room and restroom." Richie ordered
I nodded and walked towards the living room. The lights was dimly, the living floor was full of a can beer everywhere and the smelles get stronger as I walked further. I slowly opened every door I saw 'till I finally saw the cause of the strong smell. Inside restrooms. A body hunging on the ceiling
"Maverick, Captain here!" I shouted looking at the body
"Looks like we've got a dead body," Maverick stated, his voice firm.
"Damn!" Richie exclaimed
"I call back up." Maverick immediately leave the house and call the back up
While I began to survey the area, taking note of any potential evidence. "Looks like the victim might have been here for a while. We'll need to get forensics to take a closer look."
Richie nodded, already snapping photos with his phone. "Sawyer, can you check for any signs of forced entry or struggle?" Richie asked. I nodded.
Minutes had passed, the back-up. The forensic team swarmed the house, equipped with gloves, masks, and evidence bags. I stepped aside, allowing them to work their magic.
"Captain, we've got a possible ID on the victim," one of the forensic team members said, approaching Richie.
"Looks like a wallet in his pocket with a driver's license." Richie's eyes lit up with interest. "Let's see it."
The team member handed Richie the wallet, and he carefully opened it to examine the license. "Victim's name is Alexandro Santos," Richie said, his eyes scanning the ID. "Let's get in touch with his next of kin and see if they can provide any leads."
Maverick returned, phone still in hand. "I've got the neighbors on standby for interviews, Captain."
Richie nodded. "Good work. Let's get statements and see if anyone noticed anything suspicious."
"I'll stay here, see if I can collect more evidence." I said, they just nodded
As the investigation continued, I couldn't help but notice the eerie atmosphere in the house. The dim lighting, the scattered beer cans, and the smell of decay all contributed to an unsettling feeling. I made a mental note to review the victim's background and see if there were any potential enemies or motives.
"Can I take a closer look at the body?" I asked one of the forensic team members, he handing me a pair of gloves. I nodded, donning the gloves, and carefully examined the body.
As I looked closer, I noticed something peculiar – a small tattoo on the victim's wrist. It was a symbol I didn't recognize. I made a mental note to research it further.
Hours later. We walked back into the station, Maverick, Richie, and I gathered around the conference table, spreading out the evidence we'd collected. I began to sift through the photos and notes, while Maverick pulled up more information on the victim's background.
"Alright..." Maverick said, looking up from his screen. "I've got some more info on Alexandro Santos. And looks like our vic used to be a Doctor... "He said.
"Doctor... Do you know where he was working before?" Richie asked
Maverick looked at Richie for a second before looking at me. "At Sawyer Hospital."
"What?" I curiously asked, but my voice firm.
Maverick put the paper on the table. I Immediately grab it, and he didn't joking. I double check it.
Name:
Alexandro Santos
Position:
Research Physician
Department of Research, Sawyer Hospital
Branch:
Philippines
I leaned back in my chair, can't believe of what I'm seeing. I never visit the Sawyer Hospital here in Philippines. I only handle three branch in London, New York and Italy, but here. No, I can't.
Richie raised an eyebrow. "A doctor, huh? That's a new angle. What department was he in?"
Maverick's eyes continued to scan the screen. "He's a Research Physician. But get this – he hasn't been working there for about a year. There's a notation here about a... 'disciplinary action'."
I filed away the information, my mind already exploring potential connections between the victim's past and his death.
"Let's dig deeper into that disciplinary action." Richie suggested, voice even.
I get up. "I gotta go." I said
"Where you going?" Richie asked, raising his brow
"Hospital. You know we don't have choice." I utter, my voice was low yet firm.
"And you know we always find another choice. You don't need to go there." Richie said, his voice soften
"I know. Just... Let me."
Richie sighed before nodding his head. his eyes locked on me. "Make sure you're safe. You get it?"
"Yeah."
I immediately walked out the station, and drove my car. My mind was racing as I drove to the hospital. I couldn't shake off the feeling that this case was getting personal. As the CEO of Sawyer Hospital's international branches, I'd never expected to be connected to a murder investigation here in the Philippines.
I dial a familiar number as I continue driving. It's ring three times before the other line answered.
"Francesca?" A familiar man voice spoke
"Where are you?" I asked
I heard a noise before he spoke again. "I'm at the Hospital. Why did something happen?" He asked
"Let's meet. I'm on my way." I said, ignoring of what he asked.
I didn't wait him to speak as I hung up the phone call. I took a deep breath, holding the steering wheel tight as I drove fast.
—
"I need to talk to you about something."
I spoke as I entered the room where the person was standing near his desk, waring a white coat. The man eyes landed on me. I saw how expression change, and his lips form a smiled.
"Francesca, dear!" The man walked towards to me
The next thing I knew he was hugging me. I waited him to pulled back and I remind silent with my poker face.
"I'm not here to accept anything or whatever. Do you know Alexandro Santos? His a Research Physician." I asked
Now, his expression change into a curious. "Alex. Yeah I know him. He's a great professor of many intern here, but it's been a year since I last saw him after the 'Disciplinary Action'. Why?"
"He's died. I don't know yet if it is murder or suicide. We found him hunging on his ceiling this afternoon." I said. "Tell me Marco, what happened. What with the disciplinary action?"
Dr. Marco's expression turned somber, and he walked back to his desk, his eyes avoiding mine for a moment before meeting my gaze again.
"The disciplinary action... it was a tough situation. Alex was working on a high-profile project, and there were concerns about the ethics of his research methods. Some of his colleagues raised red flags, and an investigation was launched."
He paused, collecting his thoughts. "It turned out that Alex had been using unauthorized methods. The hospital had to take action to protect its reputation and ensure patient safety."
Dr. Marco's voice took on a slightly more nuanced tone. "But I have to admit, there were rumors that the disciplinary action was more than just about the research methods. Some people said Alex had gotten too close to something... sensitive. Something that could've had serious consequences for the hospital."
I let him continue, while I'm standing firmly. "I'm not saying that's true, but... Alex was a brilliant researcher, and he was driven. Sometimes that drive can lead people to take risks they shouldn't."
"Do you know what his research is all about?" I asked, voice cold
He shook his head. "I don't know, Francesca." He answered
But I didn't believe him. I step forward. "Don't lie to me, Marco impossible that you don't know anything about what happened inside this Hospital." I firmly said. "You're the CEO, right?"
"I'm not the CEO Francesca, you know that." He said
"Whatever. Tell me the truth now, Marco."
His eyes met mine. This time his expression was dark. "It's better if you don't know anything about it, Frankie." He determined
"Fvck that! Tell me because if you don't. I swear I will do anything to uncover the truth." I coldly said, looking directly into his eyes
"Just let it go."
The air between us grew thick with tension as we locked eyes, neither of us willing to back down. Marco's expression turned icy, his jaw clenched in defiance.
"I'm telling you, Frankie, it's better if you don't know." he repeated, his voice low and even.
I took another step closer, my voice dropping to a menacing whisper.
"You're not listening, Marco. I will find out. And if you don't tell me, I'll make sure everyone in this hospital knows about your little secrets. Your precious reputation will be ruined."
Marco's eyes flashed with anger, but I could see the faintest glimmer of fear behind them. He knew I wasn't bluffing.
"Fine." he spat, his voice venomous. "You want to know? It's about the Codex Juventa."
The words hung in the air like a challenge, and I felt my body froze.
"Ring a bell?" He muttered. I didn't say anything. I just remind standing, with the cold gaze. "Alex was working on it. He was doing research about the mysterious massacre of Sawyer in '40s. He believe there something about on that mansion that can prove that Logan Sawyer was a sciencetist, working on something."
"What? That's a rumors. And it's been a long time"
"What if it's true? What if Logan is really into something?" Marco determined
"That's impossible." I said, firmly
"It is. But you never know someone, Frankie. Everyone has a dark side, a secret that can't be told to anyone." Marco uttered
"What makes you think Alex was onto something?" I asked, my voice was barely above a whisper.
Marco's expression turned calculating. "Let's just say... Alex had a way of uncovering secrets. And he was getting close to the truth. But that's all I can say, Frankie. You need to be careful. You're playing with fire here." He paused and looked at me in the eyes. "Drop the case, Frankie. It's not too late."
I turned to leave, my determination renewed. "No. I'll find out the truth, Marco. And I'll make sure justice is served."
Marco's voice stopped me. "That the words they said before... and looked what happened." He said.
"If Logan is really into something. I swear I am the first person who should know the truth." I determined
"Frankie, be careful. You're not the only one looking for answers." He said
I glanced back, my eyes locking onto his. "I'm not afraid of the truth, Marco. I'm afraid of what happens when the truth is hidden."
As I walked out of the hospital, the cool night air hit me like a slap in the face, snapping me back to reality. My mind was reeling with thoughts of my great-great-grandfather, Logan Sawyer, and the rumors surrounding him. The Codex Juventa seemed to loom over me, a shadowy presence that threatened to consume everything.
I couldn't shake off the feeling that I was walking in Alex's footsteps, following a trail of breadcrumbs that might lead me to the truth. But what if the truth was too terrible to uncover? What if I wasn't prepared for what lay ahead?
The streets were empty and silent, the only sound being the soft crunch of gravel beneath my feet. I walked, lost in thought, my eyes fixed on some distant point in the horizon.
The more I thought about it, the more I realized that I had to know the truth. Not just about Alex's death, but about my family's past, about the rumors and legends that had been whispered about for generations.
I am a Sawyer. And that means I'm bound to the shadows, forever tied to the darkness that runs through our veins like poison. It's a legacy of secrets and silence, of whispers in the night and shadows that hide the truth.
Being a Sawyer means carrying the weight of our family's darkness, a burden that's been passed down through the generations like a curse. And I knew that I couldn't escape it, no matter how hard I tried. The darkness was in my blood, a constant reminder that I was a part of something much bigger, and much darker, than myself.