Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem



Elysia Thorne and Tarquin Bradford were leaving the island in three days, rounding off a week-long escape from the hustle and bustle of their lives. Just as they stepped into the hospital, Tarquin's phone buzzed with a call from Axel. Whatever Axel said, it cast a shadow over Tarquin's face, his expression darkening in an instant.© 2024 Nôv/el/Dram/a.Org.

"...I got it. We'll talk face to face in a bit," Tarquin muttered before hanging up. He paused, furrowing his brows in thought before composing himself and returning to the hospital room.

Elysia was surrounded by their children, cherishing the reunion after a week apart. Elliot lay on the hospital bed, a gentle smile on his face. Elijah sat beside him, stoic yet with eyes sparkling as he looked at Elysia. Emmett was nestled in Elysia's arms, being his charming self. Evan stood beside her, animatedly sharing the week's adventures, his hands flying as he spoke.

Tarquin approached, feigning nonchalance, "Kids, stick with mom; I've got to swing by the office."

Elysia looked up, concerned, "Something wrong at work?"

"Just need to sort out some work stuff; it's nothing to worry about. I'll be back soon."

Elysia didn't press further, "Alright, just call if you're not back for dinner."

"Will do."

With a quick peck on Elysia's forehead and a ruffle of Emmett's hair, Tarquin was out the door, his demeanor shifting the moment he stepped out of the room.

Axel was waiting downstairs. As soon as Tarquin got into the car, he asked, "When did it happen?"

"Yesterday afternoon," Axel started the car, steering it out of the hospital parking lot.

"Why didn't you call me?" Tarquin's brow was furrowed with concern.

"You know it wouldn't have made a difference. The guy was already dead," Axel stated flatly, knowing too well how Tarquin had finally found a slice of happiness he didn't want to disrupt.

Tarquin leaned back, lighting a cigarette and taking a deep drag. Axel glanced at him through the rearview mirror, understanding the turmoil his friend must be feeling but choosing to focus on the facts.

"I did some digging around. While you were at the police station, Jindale City witnessed a brutal murder. A young heir was found dismembered in the woods, his limbs neatly placed beside his torso, just like Declan."

Declan, the bodyguard who had once betrayed Tarquin under duress, was found dead in a similar manner.

"The forensic team says the killer is both cruel and meticulous, likely someone accustomed to a refined lifestyle," Axel continued.

"Any leads on who it might be?" Tarquin pressed, his voice tight.

"Keith."

Tarquin's expression darkened at the mention of the name. Axel explained, "Declan left a voice message before he died, mentioning Keith."

He played the message. Declan's voice filled the car, urgent and breathless, "Boss, tell Tarquin I stumbled upon Keith's secret. Keith, he's got a girl-"

The message cut off abruptly. Axel sighed, "Declan wanted to make amends, went after Keith alone to uncover his secrets. It's unclear if he meant a girlfriend or a daughter, but if it's the latter, Keith could very well be our prime suspect."