Previously: One day before the body of a woman is found in the library of the Winters’ Family home in California, Melissa Mustard went against the advice of Private Investigator Perry Winkle and went to the home of her late colleague Dr. Justin Olive. Melissa met Justin’s younger brother, Andrew, whose strange behavior prompted Melissa to believe that Andrew either knew where Ryder Turchese was or was letting Ryder stay there. When Melissa left Andrew, she called Perry Winkle, only to reach the P.I.’s answering machine. Melissa left a message, telling Perry that she believed Andrew knew more about Ryder’s whereabouts than he let on. Melissa didn’t know, however, that Ryder Turchese had gotten to Perry Winkle first and had the P.I. bound and gagged. Ryder, holding a knife on Winkle, threatened to kill him if Winkle did not agree to tell Melissa he had reached a dead end in his search and that the case was closed. Naturally, Winkle agreed and Ryder spared his life. In his office at L.A. County Hospital, Reynard Winters recalled how the day before, his best friend, Dr. Richard Dove came into his office with an envelope containing photographs of Reynard’s daughter-in-law, Amanda and Richard’s son, Randy in a passionate kiss. When Reynard alluded that he wanted to show the photos to his son Jason, Richard did his best to persuade Reynard to let him have the photos. But Reynard decided that the photographs were just what he needed to get Amanda out of his family for good. Richard agreed that blackmailing Amanda with the photographs was a brilliant idea, but when Reynard also suggested that they could use the photographs to get Randy to stay away from Reynard’s daughter, Taylor, Richard scoffed at the idea. That is, until Reynard pointed out that Randy’s relationship with Taylor was incestuous and needed to end immediately. At Prince “Blanket” Onceblack’s L.A. apartment, Sister Mary Amethyst was shocked when a crying young woman showed up at the door. The young woman told Sister Amethyst that her brother, Jeffery is “Blanket’s” personal assistant and had been missing for days. Sister Amethyst tried her best to calm the young woman’s fears, only to have the arrival of a police detective upset her again. The police detective explained that her partner, Detective Oleander was found murdered in an alley and knowing that Oleander was working on the case of “Blanket’s” missing half-sister, Vivienne Scarlet prompted the detective to come looking for “Blanket”. When Jeffery’s sister heard that Vivienne was missing as well, she broke down and told the detective that her brother had also disappeared. When Sister Amethyst left the room to look for “Blanket’s” cellular phone number, the detective ordered her fellow officers to put an all points bulletin out on “Blanket”. Sister Amethyst in the meantime, called “Blanket” to let him know that the police were at the apartment and that Jeffery’s sister had told them that Jeffery was also missing. Amanda Winters, in the meantime, hurried to the Winters’ guest house to pay a visit to Vivienne Scarlet. Amanda told Vivienne that she had discovered that Vivienne’s mother has been a patient of Dr. Dove and that she had stolen the case file. Amanda however did not tell Vivivenne that the file contained proof that Vivienne is not the biological child of Mrs. Peacock-Canary and the late Hugh Black and that Peacock-Canary had purchased Vivienne off of the black market when she was just an infant. Amanda left the case file with Vivienne, but Reynard Winters arrived before Vivienne could read it. Reynard took the case file and immediately realized that Amanda stole the file from Dr. Dove’s office.

“Safe and Warm in L.A.?”

FRIDAY 7:33 PM PST

As a dense fog begins to move in over the Los Angeles suburb of White Hill Estates, beams of light from a full moon reflect off of the lake just behind the home of the Winters Family. Inside the house, a lively party celebrating the christening of Reynard and Kendal Winters’ first grandchild is in full swing. But the people attending the celebration have no idea of the horror that has taken place behind the door of the library. The dimly lit room has been temporarily transformed into a nursery with a crib set up in one corner. The crib, however, is empty. The French doors that lead out to the lake have been left open. A light breeze blows the silk curtains that hang on either side of the doors and a trail of muddy footprints lead outside. Across the room is a stone fireplace and the flames of the fire have almost burnt completely out. On an area rug in front of the fireplace is a metal fire poker. But this poker wasn’t used to tend the fire. On the floor next to the poker lies the lifeless body of woman. Clutched in the woman’s hand, is a small plastic bag that contains a fine white powder. On the floor next to the body is a Phantom of the Opera-style half-mask. On a nearby desk is a stack of photographs that show Randy Dove and Amanda Winters in a passionate kiss…

FLASHBACK: FRIDAY 3:47 PM PST, OMNI HOTEL, LOS ANGELES

As a light rain continues to fall, Melissa Mustard enters the Omni Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. She crosses the lobby, goes to a seating area and takes a seat on a couch. Looking around at the people in the lobby, Melissa takes a breath. Melissa then looks at her wrist watch. “Almost four.” She says. Looking up again, Melissa sees a tall man enter the hotel. A smile comes over her face. The man sees Melissa and smiles. He walks over to the seating area. Melissa stands up as the man reaches her.

“Melissa.” The man says. They hug.

“Hi daddy.” Melissa says.

Upstairs in his suite, Michael Mustard is reading the society page of a newspaper. Mustard’s eyes scan the page and stop on an announcement. Reading the announcement, Mustard sees that the christening of Kendal and Reynard Winter’s grandson is to happen later today at a local church and the family is having a reception for friends at their home, Winterswind. When there is a knock on the door, Mustard puts the paper down. He crosses the living area of the suite and goes to the door. Mustard is not pleased to see Ryder Turchese standing at the door. “Aren’t you going to invite me in, Colonel?” Ryder asks.

“Ryder, honestly, I don’t have time for this.” Mustard says, trying to close the door. Ryder puts his arm up and prevents Mustard from closing it.

“Oh I am sorry, I didn’t realize that you have other pressing matters.” Ryder says, pretending to turn to leave. “I guess you don’t care to know that your niece hired a Private Eye to find me.”

“What? Melissa hired a Private Investigator?” Mustard asks.

“You don’t have time, remember.” Ryder says.

“Get in here.” Mustard says. “And close the door.” Ryder turns, enters the suite and closes the door behind him. “So what’s this about Melissa hiring someone to find you?”

“Don’t worry about it, mate. It’s been taking care of.” Ryder says, flopping down on a couch. He sees the newspaper society page lying on the coffee table.

“What do you mean taken care of?” Mustard asks.

“Let’s just say I’ve convinced the P.I. to end his search and tell Melissa he’s reached a dead end.” Ryder says. He picks up the newspaper.

“And how in the world did you do that? Wait, don’t tell, me I don’t think I want to know.” Mustard says. He turns away from Ryder and pours himself a drink. “Whiskey?”

“It’s barely four, Mike.” Ryder says. Mustard gives Ryder a dirty look and downs the whiskey. “So what’s your obsession with this christening?”

“Christening? I don’t know what you are talking about.” Mustard lies. He pours himself another drink.

“Bah. Don’t give me that. This is the second time I’ve found you with the society page, and something tells me you aren’t sending out congratulations cards to all the engaged couples in Los Angeles.” Ryder says. “So?”

“So what?” Mustard asks.

“So who are Reynard and Kendal Winters?” Ryder asks.

“Just some old friends.” Mustard says.

“Old friends who just so happen to have a grandson the same age as your great-nephew.” Ryder says. Mustard turns slowly. “These Winters people, they are the people you sold the baby to aren’t they?”

“That’s ridiculous.” Mustard says. “Kendal Winters and I attended the same university, if you must know. She is an old, dear friend.”

“So are you going to the christening of your old, dear friend’s grandson?” Ryder asks.

“I haven’t decided. I mean, no, I wasn’t invited.” Mustard corrects himself. Ryder nods his head.

“Ah, I see.” Ryder says.

“Ryder, is there something else?” Mustard asks.

“Just one more thing.” Ryder says. The men stare at each other.

“Well?” Mustard asks.

“Well what?” Ryder asks.

“What else can I do for you?” Mustard asks, starting to get annoyed.

“Um, my money would be a good start.” Ryder says, holding out his hand.

“I’ve told you, I don’t have any money to give you.” Mustard says.

“And I told you I would give you three days to come up with it. Your three days were up,” He looks at his wrist watch, “two days ago.”

“Fine Ryder, I don’t have the time or energy to fight with you anymore.” He crosses the room. “I will go and get you a cashier’s check and get you the damned money.” Ryder smiles.

“I’ll be here when you get back.” Ryder says.

Downstairs, in the hotel restaurant, Elizabeth Peacock-Canary is having a late lunch with Dr. Richard Dove. “Are you sure your friends won’t mind if I come with you?”

“Of course not, Elizabeth. I wouldn’t have invited you if I thought Kendal and Reynard would mind.” Richard says. “Besides, I thought a party would get your mind off of things.”

“You are very sweet.” Elizabeth says. She takes a sip from a glass of water. “Now what does one wear to a christening?”

4:10 PM PST, WINTERSWIND

In their bedroom, Kendal and Reynard Winters are getting dressed. Kendal is sitting at a dressing table brushing her hair, when suddenly a few strands come out. Kendal sees the hair on the brush and her eyes begin to fill with tears. Reynard comes out of their walk-in closet and sees his wife is upset. “Oh, Kendal.” He says as he comes over to her. He puts his hand on her back.

“I don’t know how I am going to do it, Reynard.” Kendal says, wiping her tears.

“I know it’s not easy darling, but we will make it through this.” Reynard says.

“Well what happens when all of my hair has fallen out? Then what? I am going to have to tell the children.” She cries.

“We will cross that bridge when we come to it.” Reynard says. “The children love you very much. And so do I.” He pats her back. A knock on the door prompts Kendal to quickly hide the hair brush.

“Come in.” She says, wiping her tears.

“Are you two almost ready?” Jason Winters asks as he enters the room.

“Almost.” Kendal says, not turning from the mirror.

“Is Amanda still refusing to go to the church?” Reynard asks.

“Yeah, she’s adamant about not going.” Jason says.

“Maybe I should go and talk to her.” Kendal says.

“It couldn’t hurt.” Reynard says. Kendal gets up from the dressing table and walks past Jason.

“Mom, have you been crying?” Jason asks.

“She’s just very stressed out, son.” Reynard covers for her. Kendal grabs Jason’s hand.

“I am fine, dear.” She smiles. Jason kisses his mother’s cheek.

“Thanks mom.” He says.

“For what?” She asks.

“For putting up with all of this drama.” Jason says. Kendal smiles.

“Hopefully, after tonight all of the drama will be over.” She says. She leaves the two men alone.

“Do you think she can convince Amanda to come to the church?” Jason asks his father.

“If anyone can do it, it is your mother.” Reynard says.

In the hall, Taylor Winters is just coming down the stairs as Kendal comes out of the master bedroom. “All ready to go to the church?” Kendal asks.

“Yeah, there is just one thing I need to do before we go.” Taylor says. She opens a closet and takes out a coat.

“Where are you going?” Kendal asks.

“I will be back.” Taylor says.

“Well we are leaving for the church at five-thirty.” Kendal reminds her.

“I know.” Taylor says.

“Don’t forget an umbrella.” Kendal says. Taylor grabs an umbrella from a stand beside the door. “And be sure to tell Randall I said hello.” Kendal smiles. Taylor smiles and hurries out of the front entrance. Once outside, she opens up an umbrella and a taxi cab pulls up outside the front gate of Winterswind. Taylor hurries down the driveway to the cab, passing a catering van on her way. Several people are unloading food from the van. Vivienne Scarlet watches from the guest house window.

4:16 PM PST, GUEST HOUSE, WINTERSWIND

“So be sure to stay out of site.” Tyler Winters says. Vivienne doesn’t respond. “Hey, are you listening to me?”

“Oh, yes, sorry.” Vivienne turns from the window.

“Well, there is going to be lots of people at the house after J.R.’s christening, so you better stay away from the windows.” Tyler warns.

“I will.” Vivienne smiles.

“I really wish you could come to the christening.” Tyler tells her. “And I know dad does too.”

“Now, seriously, do you think that me going to party where all of your family is going to be would be a good idea?” She asks.

“Well, no, but I still wish you could come. It’s going to be so boring.” Tyler says.

“Aren’t your cousins here, can’t you hang out with them?” Scarlet asks.

“Yeah they are here, but they are so lame.” Tyler says. “It would be more fun to hang out with you.”

“That’s sweet.” Scarlet smiles. “But I will be fine here. I always am.”

“I know.” Tyler says. “I better go. My lame cousins are probably lookin’ for me.”

“Well try and have fun.” Scarlet says. Tyler smiles and hurries to the door.

“Remember, stay away from the windows, and don’t even think about going out.” He says. “I don’t want anybody finding out that you are staying here.”

“I promise to stay put.” Scarlet nods. “Nothing could get me to go out in this rain.”

“Good.” Tyler says.

4:22 PM PST, “BLANKET” ONCEBLACK’S APARTMENT

Sister Mary Amethyst is sitting at a table reading her Bible when the phone rings. She gets up to answer it. “Hello.” Sister Amethyst says.

“Hello, may I speak to Mr. Onceblack please.” A man says.

“I’m sorry but Mr. Onceblack isn’t here. May I take a message?” Sister Amethyst asks.

“Yes please. Will you please tell Mr. Onceblack that I am terribly sorry to bother him at home, but I need him to call me back as soon as he can?” The man says.

“I will tell him, who may tell him the message is from?” She asks.

“Oh, dreadfully sorry,” the man says, “I am Pinkerton, Maralyn Mauve’s valet.”

“Alright, Mr. Pinkerton, I will give him the message.” Sister Amethyst says.

“Please tell Mr. Onceblack it is urgent, will you?” Pinkerton says.

“Mr. Pinkerton, is something wrong with Miss Mauve?” Sister Amethyst asks, hearing the concern in his voice.

“I wish I knew, but unfortunately I have not heard from Miss Mauve in days. It is not like her to go away without letting me know and without a change of clothes no less.” He says.

“Oh dear. I can understand your concern.” Sister Amethyst says. “I will be sure to give “Blanket”, er, Mr. Onceblack the message.”

“Thanks ever so much.” He says. They hang up.

“Oh “Blanket”.” Sister Amethyst says to herself. “Not only is Jeffery Tan missing, but Miss Mauve too. What have you done? It can’t be a coincidence that all of these people have disappeared. Where could they be?” She asks herself. Suddenly, Sister Amethyst gets an idea. She picks up the phone. “Information, I need the number for a cab company.” She says.

4:35 PM PST, ONCEBLACK STUDIOS

In the soundstage utility closet, Ginger changes the bandage on Kevin Kale’s injured arm. “Thanks.” Kevin smiles at Ginger.

“Does it hurt?” Ginger asks.

“Not too bad.” Kevin says.

“Well, I don’t know about you two,” Maralyn Mauve says, “but I am ready to tear the walls of this place down.”

“You would think that someone would have reported one of you missing by now.” Sage says.

“One of us?” Jeffery Tan asks.

“Well, it isn’t like Ginger or I have a lot of people that would notice that we weren’t around.” Sage says.

“That’s not true,” Kevin whispers to Ginger, “at least not anymore.” Ginger blushes.

“Someone from my staff has bound to have contacted the police and told them I was missing.” Miss Mauve says.

“I would think they would be happy with the break.” Kevin winks at her.

“Very funny.” Miss Mauve says, crinkling her nose.

4:42 PM PST, RANDY AND RICHARD DOVE’S APARTMENT

Taylor Winters stands outside Randy Dove’s apartment waiting for someone to answer. “Maybe I should have called first.” Taylor says to herself. She knocks again, but again receives no answer. She looks down at a welcome mat on the floor. “I wonder.” She says. Bending down, Taylor picks up the mat and finds a key under it. Taking the key, Taylor unlocks the door and lets herself in. She replaces the key and puts the mat back over it. “Randy?” Taylor calls out as she closes the door. “Dr. Dove?” Crossing the living room, she realizes that one is home. “Now, I wonder where that envelope Randy stole from Jason could be.” She goes to a desk and opens the drawer. Rummaging through the drawer proves futile, as there is no envelope in there. “Maybe it’s in Randy’s room.” She says. She closes the desk drawer and walks down the hall to her boyfriend’s bedroom. Slowly opening the door, Taylor peeks inside, in case Randy is in there. Finding the room empty, Taylor goes over to a dresser and opens the top drawer. The envelope isn’t in the top drawer so she goes to the next, and then the third. “It has to be somewhere.” Moving to the last drawer, Taylor sees piles of Randy’s underwear. She begins to rummage through them, but suddenly stops. “What the…?” Taylor says. She takes out a pair of women’s panties. “These aren’t mine.” Taylor says. “That son of a…” Slamming the drawer closes, Taylor tosses the panties onto the bed, she is about to leave the room when she sees the nightstand beside Randy’s bed. “Hmmm, the envelope might be in there.” She says. She hurries over to the other side of the bed and is about to open the drawer of the nightstand when she notices a diamond engagement ring lying on top. Thinking that Randy bought the ring for her, Taylor picks it up. “Wait a second, this looks really familiar.” Taylor says. She takes a closer look at the ring and sees an inscription is engraved inside the band. “To Amanda, Love Always, J.” The inscription reads. “Why is Amanda’s engagement ring here?” Taylor asks herself, and then suddenly the awful truth hits her. “Oh my god.” She says. Putting the ring into her pocket, Taylor runs out of Randy’s room.

4:57 PM PST WINTERSWIND

Kendal Winters comes out of the library and is met by Jason and Reynard. “Any luck?” Jason asks.

“She is coming with us.” Kendal says.

“How did you ever convince her?” Reynard asks.

“It wasn’t easy.” Kendal says. “Just be glad she agreed to come.”

“I am very grateful, mom.” Jason says.

In the library, Amanda is on her cell phone, while J.R. is in his crib asleep. “So I am going.” She says. “Will I see you there?”

“I’m not coming to the church, but I will be by the house later.” Randy Dove says.

“Where are you now?” Amanda asks him.

“I am on my way home.” Randy says. His car passes a taxi cab carrying a distraught Taylor Winters.

“After tonight, I am taking J.R. and leaving here.” Amanda says.

“Where are you going to go?” Randy says.

“I was hoping you had some ideas about that.” Amanda says.

“Are you saying you want to take off with me?” Randy asks. Amanda laughs.

“The thought had crossed my mind.” She says. Amanda is unaware that Tyler Winters is standing outside the French doors listening to her conversation.

“Tyler?” A voice calls out, startling the young man. Tyler turns to see his cousin Cameron Forrest. “What are you doing?”

“Oh, I was just about to come inside.” Tyler says. Amanda hears them outside talking.

“I have to go.” Amanda tells Randy.

“Oh, alright.” Randy says. “I love you.” Amanda pretends she didn’t hear him and hangs up. She walks over to the French doors and pulls back the curtain. The rain has caused the glass to fog up. She wipes the condensation away and looks out. But Tyler and Cameron are gone. Tyler and Cameron make their way to the front entrance, passing some of the catering staff. They enter the house. Kendal sees the young men.

“Tyler, I thought I told you to go and get ready an hour ago.”

“You did.” Tyler says. “But, I need to tell you something first.”

“Go.” She points up the stairs.

“Yes, ma’am.” Tyler says. He climbs the stairs to his room.

Outside the front gates of the house, “Blanket” Onceblack sits in his car. He watches the caterers as they unload food from their van. “Now, I just need to wait for that gate to open.” He says to himself. He looks in his rear view mirror and sees a taxi cab coming to a stop near the house. Taylor Winters gets out and goes to the gate. She punches in a code at a keypad and the gate opens. Onceblack watches as Taylor goes inside and the gate closes behind her. Once Taylor is inside the compound, “Blanket” gets out of his car and goes to the retaining wall. He creeps into some hedges and steps in a mud puddle.

5:06 PM PST ONCEBLACK STUDIOS

Sister Mary Amethyst quickly walks onto the back lot of “Blanket’s” studio and comes to the soundstage. She opens the door of the soundstage and goes in. Inside the utility closet, Kevin Kale and the other hostages are sitting on the floor. Jeffery Tan and Ginger tend to the seriously ill janitor. “He’s not going to make it another night in here.” Sage says to Kevin and Maralyn Mauve.

“He’s been shivering for hours.” Kevin stands up and goes over to the janitor and feels his forehead.

“He’s burning up.” Kevin says to Jeffery. They exchange concerned looks when suddenly they hear a voice outside the door. “Did you hear that?” Kevin asks.

“Somebody is out there!” Miss Mauve says, excitedly.

“Hello, is anyone in there?” Sister Amethyst calls out. She begins to knock on the door.

“We’re in here!” The hostages begin to shout.

“My heavens.” Sister Amethyst says. “I knew it.”

“Please help!” Miss Mauve shouts. Kevin Kale hurries to the door.

“The door is locked.” Sister Amethyst shouts.

“Is there anything out there that you could use to break the handle off of the door?” Kevin asks.

“I don’t…” She begins to look around. “Wait there is a fire extinguisher right here.” Sister Amethyst hurries over to the fire extinguisher. She takes a little hammer that is hanging on the wall next to it and breaks the glass. After struggling to get the extinguisher out, she carries it over to the door.

“Did you get it?” Kevin asks.

“Yes, but I am not really sure what to do.” She says.

“Bang the handle of the door with the bottom of the extinguisher canister.” Kevin tells her.

“I will try.” She says. Inside the utility closet, Jeffery, Sage and Maralyn have gathered behind Kevin near the door. While Ginger stays close to the janitor. Suddenly, they hear a loud noise and the handle of the door drops off.

“Thank god!” Miss Mauve says as the door opens. Sister Amethyst steps in.

“Sister Amethyst.” Kevin says, surprised to see the nun.

“Are you all alright?” She asks.

“We have to get Miguel to the hospital.” Ginger says.

“Jeffery call 9-1-1.” Kevin says. Jeffery runs out of the closet and goes to a phone.

“Kevin, you’re arm.” Sister Amethyst says, noticing the blood on his shirt.

“It’s fine.” Kevin says. “Just a flesh wound. Sister Amethyst, where is “Blanket”?”

“I haven’t talked to him since yesterday. I have a feeling he is going to go where Vivienne Scarlet is.” She says.

“He knows where she is?” Kevin asks.

“I am afraid so.” She says.

“We have to find Vivienne before “Blanket” does.” Kevin says.

5:27 PM PST WINTERSWIND

The Winters Family along with Glenn Forrest and his wife and twin sons are in the hall waiting to go to the church. “Taylor!” Reynard Winters shouts from the bottom of the stairs. “Let’s go.” The library door opens and Amanda comes out carrying J.R. He is dressed in a white christening gown.

“He is precious.” Miranda Forrest says. They all gather around Amanda and J.R. as Taylor slowly comes down the stairs.

“Tonight is all about you, little guy.” Jason smiles as he rubs his son’s head. He looks up at Amanda, who does not return the smile.

“Are we going or not?” Taylor says as she reaches the bottom of the steps.

Outside, “Blanket” Onceblack is soaked as he waits in the bushes for the gate to open so he can gain access to the compound. “Come on.” He says to himself. Just then, the door of the main house opens and the family comes out. They get into several cars and the front gate slowly opens. “Finally.” “Blanket” says. The cars pull out of the driveway and onto the street and the gate slowly closes behind them. “Blanket” hurries from out of the hedges and enters just as the gate closes. From the gate house, Vivienne Scarlet is looking out of the window, when a caterer exits the house to get more food from the van.

“I am so hungry.” She says to herself. She sees the caterer carry in a large tray of food. “I can’t stand it.” Vivienne says. Slipping on a coat, she carefully opens the door of the guest house and peeks outside. The caterer has gone inside, so Vivienne hurries out of the guest house and to the French doors on the side of the house. Once inside the library, she sees a roaring fire in the fire place. Going to the fireplace, she warms her chilled hands, not realizing she has left a trail of mud on the carpet. Outside, in the hall, the caterers have almost finished setting up the food for the reception. Vivienne goes to the library door and peeks out. “They won’t notice if I take a few things back with me.” She opens the door and steps out into the hall. She quickly begins to pile food into her coat pockets.

5:34 PM PST MUSTARD’S SUITE AT THE OMNI HOTEL

Ryder Turchese is still waiting on Colonel Mustard to return with the check. He looks down at his watch. “That bastard.” Ryder says. “He’s not coming back.” Ryder crosses the room and exits. Downstairs, Melissa Mustard and her father, Jack Mustard are just finishing their dinner in the hotel restaurant.

“I really wish you would have told me about the kidnapping sooner, Missy.” Jack Mustard says.

“I know. And I am sorry that I didn’t.” Melissa says.

“And you are one hundred percent sure that Ryder is here in L.A.?” He asks.

“Yes.” Melissa says. Jack pays the bill and the two of them exit the restaurant to the lobby. Melissa inadvertently leaves her purse in the restaurant. At that exact moment, Ryder comes out of the elevator.

“So you will help me, dad?” Melissa asks. “The Private Investigator I hired says he’s done all he can.”

“Well, I don’t know exactly what we can do. I guess we could go back to the Olive’s apartment.” Jack says.

“I was thinking the same thing.” Melissa says. They cross the lobby and are about to exit when Melissa remembers that she left her purse in the restaurant. “Wait, I left my purse at the table.”

“I will go and get it.” Jack Mustard tells his daughter.

“Thanks.” Melissa says. “I will wait here.” Jack leaves her and crosses the lobby to the restaurant. At the front desk, a disgruntled customer is yelling at a clerk. Melissa turns toward the front desk, just as Ryder crosses the lobby. He misses seeing her. Melissa turns back just as Ryder goes out of the hotel entrance into the rain. She sees the back of his head. “Ryder?” She says. She runs across to the entrance and out into the rain after Ryder, just at Jack Mustard crosses the lobby with her purse.

“Missy?” A confused Jack says. He looks around the lobby for his daughter.

5:45 PM PST WINTERSWIND

In the library, Vivienne Scarlet is sitting at a desk, finishing off the food she stole from the caterers. “I better get out of here before someone sees me.” She says, wiping her mouth. She stands up, but notices the case file from Richard Dove that Amanda gave to her. “I wondered what happened to this.” Her curiosity getting the best of her, Vivienne opens the case file and begins reading. “Mrs. Peacock-Canary is suffering from feelings of guilt from having kept the truth of her daughter’s true parentage a secret for so many years. Mrs. Peacock-Canary is very concerned about how Vivienne Scarlet would react if she were to ever discover the fact that she was purchased off of the black market as a baby and not Mrs. Peacock-Canary’s biological child.” Vivienne can’t believe what she has just read. A sickening feeling creeps into the pit of her stomach. “This can’t be right.” She says. She continues reading. “October 1978, Elizabeth found out she was pregnant…Miscarriage, November 1978…Faked remainder of pregnancy…bought baby girl from woman in Salem, Massachusetts, July 1979…Passed baby girl off as…” She stops reading. “Me.” Vivienne hears the caterers outside in the hall. They have noticed some of the food is missing and the trail of muddy footprints that lead to the library. Vivienne quickly gathers the case file and runs across the library, the white half-mask falls from her face. She doesn’t stop to pick up. She hurries out of the French door and across the yard to the guest house, tears streaming down her cheeks. Once inside, she takes off her wet coat and shoes and goes to the bathroom. In the bathroom, Vivienne washes her face and looks up to see her reflection in the mirror. Standing behind her is “Blanket” Onceblack. Vivienne shrieks at the site of her half-brother. She turns to face him

“Hello, Vivienne.” “Blanket” says.

“How did you find me?” She asks.

“It wasn’t easy.” He says. She rushes over to him and wraps her arms around him.

“Oh, “Blanket”.” She cries into his shoulder.

“There, there, sis.” “Blanket” pats her back. “It’s alright. Everything is going to be alright.”

6:08 PM PST HOLLYWOOD FREEWAY, MARALYN MAUVE’S CAR

Kevin Kale is on a cell phone, while Maralyn is behind the wheel. In the backseat, Ginger and Sister Amethyst anxiously listen as Kevin talks to Detective Russet. “Yes, I got it. White Hills Estates.” Kevin says. “Thank you detective.” He hangs up. “Take the next exit.” Kevin tells Maralyn.

“It’s a good thing that “Blanket” left your cell phone at the apartment.” Ginger says. She looks over at Sister Amethyst and smiles.

“I just hope that Reynard Winters knows where Vivienne is.” Kevin says. Maralyn takes the next exit, Wilshire Boulevard, heading towards White Hills Estates.

6:14 PM PST WILSHIRE BOULEVARD, LOS ANGELES

Melissa Mustard is in the back of a taxi cab. “Please stay with him.” She tells the driver. Two cars ahead, Ryder Turchese is speeding down the street. “We can’t lose him.” She says. “Not again.” Ryder turns off of Wilshire and into the gated community of White Hills Estates. Melissa’s taxi follows.

6:19 PM PST BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH, LOS ANGELES

The Winters Family gathers for the christening of J.R. At the front of the church, Jason stands next to Amanda, who holds the baby. The priest pours some holy water of J.R., as Kendal and Reynard watch proudly. Reynard looks over at Taylor, who is texting on her cell phone. He gives her a dirty look. Taylor looks at her father, and then quickly exits the church. Reynard lets go of Kendal’s hand and follows Taylor. Outside, Taylor is sitting on a stone bench in the rain, crying. Reynard comes out of the church and sees her. “Taylor!” He says to her. “It is pouring out here. What the hell is going on?”

“Leave me alone!” Taylor shouts. Her cell phone makes a noise and she looks down at it.

“Is that Randy?” Reynard asks.

“It’s none of your business.” She snaps.

“The hell it isn’t!” Reynard says. He grabs the phone away from her.

“Give me back my phone!” She says, jumping up from the bench.

“I told you to that I didn’t want you talking to Randy any more.” Reynard says. “Why is that so hard for you to understand?”

“Dad! Give me my phone!” Taylor shouts.

“No! I am sorry, but I will not give it back until you swear to me you will obey my orders and not have anything to do with him!” He yells.

“Your orders?” Taylor asks. “Your orders don’t mean anything.” The cell phone goes off again and Reynard looks down at it. He sees the text message from Randy. “I am almost at the church.” The message reads.

“He is not coming here.” Reynard says.

“Yes he is!” She shouts.

“Richard and I specifically told Randy that he was not to come to the christening.” Reynard says.

“Well he is on his way. And you can’t stop me from talking to him!” Taylor shouts.

“Why are you being so difficult?” Reynard asks.

“I have to talk to him, daddy.” Taylor says, sitting down on the bench again.

“Can’t it wait until tomorrow?” Reynard asks.

“No.” Taylor says, sadly. “It can’t.” Reynard notices that she has started to cry.

“Taylor, what’s going on?” Reynard asks.

“I can’t…I don’t want to talk about it.” She says.

“Come on, Taylor, it’s me. You can tell me anything.” He says. He takes his coat off and wraps it around the shivering girl. Taylor wipes her eyes.

“I found this in Randy’s room today.” She opens her hand and shows him Amanda’s ring. “I think Amanda is having an affair with Randy.”

“Oh dear lord.” Reynard says. The rain stops. Reynard looks up and sees a statue of Jesus looking down at them. He wraps his arm around Taylor. Her cell phone goes off again. “Text Randy back and tell him not to come to the church.”

“But I need to talk to him, daddy.” Taylor says.

“Tell him to meet you at Winterswind.” Reynard says. “And then go and wait for me in the car.”

“Thank you, daddy.” Taylor kisses his cheek. She springs to her feet and quickly texts Randy. Reynard goes back inside the church and attracts the attention of Richard Dove. Richard comes over to him. Reynard whispers to Richard, as Kendal watches from the front of the church.

6:41 PM PST WINTERSWIND

Colonel Michael Mustard stands at the gates waiting to be let in. A voice comes over a speaker next to the gate.

“The family isn’t back from the church yet, sir.” The voice says.

“I am sorry I am early.” Colonel Mustard says.

“I don’t see your name on the guest list, sir.” The voice says.

“Mrs. Winters invited me to come just this morning. I am sure it is just an oversight.” Mustard says. Ryder’s car pulls up to the curb just as the gate opens. “Thank you.” Mustard says, hitting the speaker box on the way in. Ryder watches as Mustard enters the compound. Melissa’s taxi has parked a little ways down the street.

“Ma’am.” The driver says.

“I just want to wait here for a few minutes.” She says.

“Fine by me, but the meter is still running.” The driver says.

In the guest house, Vivienne and “Blanket” are sitting on the couch. “So, you’ve been staying here all this time? This Mr. Winters must be a nice guy.”

“He is.” Vivienne says.

“But I don’t understand why you would rather stay here with strangers than be with your own family.” “Blanket” says. Vivienne begins to tear up. “Did I say something wrong?”

“No.” Scarlet says, wiping her tears. “I am just so confused.”

“I know. But it will all be over soon.” “Blanket” says.

“What?” She asks.

“I mean it will all be better soon.” He corrects himself.

Outside, Maralyn Mauve’s car pulls onto the Winters’ street. “Slow down, the house should be around here.” Kevin says. He looks at the addresses of the houses.

“Kevin.” Maralyn says.

“Did you find it?” He asks.

“No, but isn’t that “Blanket’s” car parked over there?” She motions to a car parked on the side of the street.

“He’s found her.” Sister Amethyst says.

“We don’t even know that Vivienne is here.” Kevin says.

“Let’s not panic. Yet.” Ginger says.

“There’s the house.” Kevin says as they come to a stop in front of Winterswind’s gates.

“Now how are we going to get in?” Ginger asks just ask Reynard’s car passes them and pulls into the driveway. Reynard presses a button in the car and the gate slowly begins to open.

“Randy isn’t here yet.” Taylor says to Reynard as they pull into the driveway.

“I will leave the gates open.” Reynard says. He presses a button and the gates remain open.

“The gate isn’t closing.” Ryder Turchese says. He gets out of his car.

“He’s getting out.” Melissa says. She hands the driver some cash and then gets out of the cab.

“C’mon.” Kevin says, the gates are open. Kevin, Maralyn, Ginger and Sister Amethyst get out of Maralyn’s car and walk up the driveway. They are followed in by Melissa Mustard.

6:53 PM PST SANTA MONICA BOULEVARD, RANDY DOVE’S CAR

Randy is texting a message to Taylor, not paying attention to the road. “I am five minutes away.” He texts to her. Just as he hits send, he looks up and sees a truck pulling out in front of him. Randy presses on his break, but the wet road causes his car to slide. The car slams into the truck. Randy’s head is forced forward just as an airbag inflates.

6:55 PM PST WINTERSWIND

Taylor gets the text from Randy. “He will be here in a few minutes.” Taylor tells Reynard. They get out of the car and walk to the front door. Reynard notices the lights are on in the guest house.

In the guest house, Vivienne gives “Blanket” a cup of tea. “I am going to get out of these wet clothes. I really appreciate you coming here, but Reynard will be back any minute. If he finds you here…” She says.

“Alright, I will go, but I just wish you would reconsider calling your mother, she is worried sick.” “Blanket” says.

“Please don’t tell her where I am.” She begs.

“I wouldn’t do that.” He says. She hugs him.

“Thank you.” Scarlet says. She turns and walks to the bedroom.

“I will show myself out.” “Blanket” lies. He waits for her to go to the bedroom and then takes out a gun. He looks out the window and sees that people have started to arrive at the house. He flips a switch on the wall and the guest house falls dark. Kevin notices.

“This way.” Kevin says. The four of them cross the side yard to the guest house just as Richard Dove’s car comes into the driveway.

“I am sure Reynard has a good reason for leaving the church early.” Richard says to Kendal who is in the backseat with Tyler. “Go easy on him.” Kendal remains silent. Glenn Forrest and his family along with Jason, Amanda and J.R. arrive in an SUV.

7:03 PM PST

Melissa is greeted at the door of Winterswind by an older woman. “Hello.” Melissa smiles.

“May I help you?” The woman asks.

“My name is Melissa Mustard.” She says. The woman checks a list of names.

“I’m sorry but I don’t see your name on the guest list.” The woman says.

“It’s alright, Mrs. Poole.” Reynard Winters says. “She is a friend of the family.” He walks over to them.

“Hello, Melissa. What a lovely surprise.” He smiles. “You Mustards are full of surprises aren’t you?”

“I beg your pardon?” Melissa asks.

“Why your Uncle Michael is in the living room.” Reynard says.

“Uncle Michael. He’s here?” Melissa asks, just as the rest of the Winters Family enters.

“Reynard.” Kendal says as she walks up to them.

“Darling, you remember Melissa Mustard.” Reynard says.

“Yes, lovely to see you.” Kendal says. “Reynard I need to speak to you.”

“I was just going to show Dr. Mustard into the living room.” Reynard says.

“Now.” Kendal says.

“I can find my way.” Melissa says.

“Please excuse me.” Reynard says. Kendal pulls him away. Melissa is about to go to the living room when she sees Amanda and Jason. Amanda is holding J.R. Melissa suddenly gets a weird feeling as she sees the infant in Amanda’s arms. Jason sees Melissa and waves her over.

“Melissa, I would like to introduce you to my wife Amanda. And this is our son, J.R.” He says.

“It’s nice to meet you…” And then Melissa realizes she has already met Amanda.

FLASHBACK, RICHARD AND RANDY DOVE’S APARTMENT, SIX DAYS AGO

Melissa arrives at the apartment door and takes out a key. Melissa puts the key in the lock and turns it just as Amanda opens the door. “Oh.” Melissa says, shocked when the door opens. “Hi.” She smiles.

“Hi.” Amanda says.

“I think I have the wrong apartment.” Melissa says, looking at the number on the door.

“Well, that depends.” Amanda says.

“Depends on what?” Melissa asks.

“On who you are looking for.” Amanda smiles.

“Oh.” Melissa laughs nervously. “A friend of mine gave me a key to his apartment and told me I could stay in his spare room.”

“Oh yeah? Sounds like a nice friend.” Amanda says.

“Well, he’s not really a friend, more like a colleague.” Melissa says. Amanda nods.

“Oh.” She says.

“Is this Dr. Dove’s apartment?” Melissa asks.

“Oh you’re a friend of Richard’s.” Amanda says, relieved.

“Yes.” Melissa says. “And he said I could stay here for a few days.”

“Richard is so obliging isn’t he?” Amanda says. “Always there to lend a hand.”

“Yeah.” Melissa says. “These are really heavy.” She says, referring to her bags. “Can I come in?”

END FLASHBACK

“Your son is beautiful.” Melissa says.

“Thank you.” Amanda smiles. “And he is sleepy. It’s been a big day.”

“I better take him to the library and get him settled.” Jason says.

“No, it’s alright, Jason, I can take him. You stay out here and talk with your friend.” Amanda says. “It was nice to meet you Melissa.” She nods. Melissa smiles.

“Yes, nice to meet you.” Melissa says.

7:10 PM PST

Kevin Kale is walking around the perimeter of the guest house. He meets up with the women. “Well?”

“She’s here alright. She’s in the bathroom.” He says.

“And “Blanket”?” Sister Amethyst asks.

“No sign of him.” Kevin says.

“Thank god.” Sister Amethyst says. Kevin walks toward the front of the guest house.

“Where are you going?” Maralyn asks him.

“To get Vivienne before “Blanket” can.” Kevin says. He goes to the door of the guest house and the women follow. Kevin knocks, but there is no answer.

“Maybe she can’t hear you.” Ginger says.

“Try the knob.” Maralyn says. Kevin does and the door opens.

“It’s dark in there.” Maralyn says.

“Hello?” Kevin calls out into the dark house. “Vivienne.” He gets no answer. Feeling along the wall, Maralyn Mauve flips a light switch and the lights come on.

Meanwhile, Taylor Winters in on the front porch waiting for Randy to get there. She sends him another message. “Where are you?”

Inside the house, Jason shows Melissa into living room. Michael Mustard is chatting with Elizabeth Peacock-Canary and doesn’t see Melissa. “Michael, isn’t that your niece?” Peacock-Canary asks.

“By jove! I think you are right.” He exclaims. “Please excuse me a moment.”

7:15 PM PST

In their bedroom, Kendal and Reynard are arguing. “Honestly, Kendal, I had to leave.”

“This war between you and Taylor has to end, Reynard.” Kendal says.

“It is almost over, darling, I promise.” Reynard says. “Now we have guests.” Kendal looks at herself in the mirror.

“I look awful.” She says.

“You look lovely.” He says. He kisses her cheek. “Now go and dazzle ‘em. I will be out in a minute.” Kendal straightens out her dress and leaves Reynard alone. Reynard then goes over to a dresser and opens a drawer. He takes out the envelope of photographs. But instead of exiting through the bedroom door, he goes out of a door that leads outside.

In the library, Amanda has just put J.R. down in the crib when the French doors open and Tyler Winters enters. “What do you want, brat?” Amanda asks.

“I just want you to know that I heard you on the phone today.” Tyler says.

“What are you talking about?” She asks.

“I know you are planning on taking J.R. away from us. But I am not going to let you. I am going to tell my parents.” Tyler threatens.

“I don’t think so.” Amanda says.

“Just try and stop me. Mom will never let you take J.R.” Tyler says, getting in Amanda’s face.

“You aren’t going to tell her anything.” Amanda says. She goes over to a bag that is on the floor. “Because if you do, I will give her this.” Amanda takes out the bag of cocaine.

“You took that from my room!” Tyler yells. He lunges for her.

“Damn right!” Amanda yells. “Now, get out!” Tyler sees the half-mask he gave to Miss Scarlet on the floor. Amanda pushes Tyler out of the French doors. Tyler runs around the front of the house, passing the porch, where Taylor was waiting for Randy. But she is gone.

7:21 PM PST

Inside the guest house, Kevin and the women are met by Vivienne. “Kevin?”

“Vivienne.” Kevin says. “Thank god we got here before “Blanket” did.”

“You didn’t? “Blanket” just left.” Vivienne says.

“He did?” Miss Mauve asks.

“Or so you thought.” “Blanket” says. He comes out of the kitchen, holding the gun on them. “Close the door.” He orders. Kevin closes the door.

“Oh, “Blanket”, why?” Sister Amethyst asks.

“You know why, Aunt Mary.” He says.

“I can’t believe this, “Blanket”. This isn’t you.” Kevin says.

“Shut up!” “Blanket” shouts.

“But Kevin is right. This isn’t the “Blanket” I’ve come to know and love.” Vivienne says. “Why are you holding us at gunpoint?”

“Because he’s crazy.” Maralyn Mauve says.

“Shut up, Maralyn!” “Blanket” shouts.

“Now, I want all of you to get on the couch. You too, Vivienne.” “Blanket” says.

“You don’t have to do this? There is another way.” Sister Amethyst says.

“I am afraid there isn’t.” “Blanket” says. “I tried to kill her once, and look where it got me.” He says.

“You. You were the one who tried to kill me?” Vivienne asks. “Why?”

7:25 PM PST WINTERSWIND HALL

“You mean Ryder is here?” Michael Mustard asks Melissa.

“Yes, I followed him.” Melissa says.

“What reason would Ryder have to come here?” Mustard feigns innocence. Melissa looks over at the library door. “Melissa?” Mustard asks. “Are you alright?”

“The baby.” Melissa says.

“You mean Kendal’s grandson?” Mustard asks.

“I know this is going to sound crazy but I think that little boy is my son.” She says. She turns and runs out of the front entrance.

“Melissa!” Mustard yells after her. Kendal sees Michael in the hall.

“Michael?” Kendal calls out. “Michael Mustard? What are you doing in my house?”

“Actually, I was just leaving.” He says to her. He crosses the hall and exits.

“Kendal, is everything alright?” Miranda Forrest asks.

“I have no idea what is going on.” Kendal says. “All I know is that all of these people came here to see my grandson.” She says. “Where is he?”

“Amanda took him to the library.” Jason says. “I can go and get them.”

“No, I will go.” Kendal says. She leaves Jason and Miranda and goes to the library door.

7:33 PM PST

In the dimly lit room, the fire in the stone fireplace has almost burnt completely out and J.R.’s crib is empty. The French doors that lead outside have been left open and a light breeze blows the silk curtains that hang on either side of the doors. On an area rug in front of the fireplace is a metal fire poker. On the floor next to the poker lies the lifeless body of Amanda Winters. Clutched in her hand is the small plastic bag of cocaine. On a nearby desk is the stack of photographs that show Randy and Amanda in a passionate kiss. Kendal opens the door and turns on a lamp that is by the door. It takes Kendal’s eyes a moment to adjust to the light. She enters the room and is horrified to see Amanda lying on the floor. Kendal lets out a blood-curdling scream. Kendal’s scream fades into another, one that is three thousand miles away.

10:33 PM EST BLACKPORT FOUNDER’S DAY CELEBRATION, BLACKPORT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, NEW HAMPSHIRE

As the last of the poisoned balloons fall from the ceiling, the deathly silence that has filled the auditorium is broken by the blood-curdling scream of Marina Popov. Finally, Popov succumbs to the poison that lingers in the air and collapses to the stage.

TO BE CONTINUED…