That had been disturbingly easy.

My heart sank as I peered into the envelope and saw the dreaded necklace within. The chain could be easily replaced, of course. I bit my lip as I looked at the object. It had caused me much suffering in the past, and was bound to hurt me again. Maybe I could have a safe installed in my room and keep it hidden there... with luck, that might protect me from the negative influence of the necklace.

I was surprised how well Amanda played a slut, of course. I hadn't even needed to be dressed up; the cop we had run into had eyes for her alone. I was perfectly satisfied by that, of course. The last thing I needed was some rotund excuse for a man soiling me with his eyes. Anyhow, that little ordeal was over. Now my real troubles would begin.

I would avoid wearing the necklace as much as I could, if only for the pleasure of watching Frank continue to frantically search for it, but I would probably be forced to keep it on my person at all times until I had a secure place to store it. Otherwise, Frank was bound to search my room for it. It might be best for me to dabble in its powers one more time to get rid of Frank for good; that would likely secure the safety of the necklace as well.

I held it in my hand and willed my thoughts to reach it. [i]Please, kill Frank, before we return home... I'll have an alibi, and he'll drown in his own blood![/i]