Read Online Murder in Whitechapel (The Judas Reflections) by Aiden James, Michelle Wright - Free Book Online Page A

exactly what was amiss.
    “Not for me… talk or brandy, I want nothing.”
    “What is it that’s irking you, my friend?” I asked, concerned.
    “That’s a bothersome missy, irritating and very annoying at times. Good God man, can’t you see she is madly in love with the great Judas? Robert Platt is only a pawn she’s using in the vain hope of evoking anger and jealousy within you.”
    “I see it, but want can I do? She is well aware that my intentions toward her are not of the romantic kind.”
    “Then why did you bed her?”
    “A stupid, thoughtless mistake, passion getting in the way of reason. I cannot make my point any stronger than I have done. If she chooses not to listen, then it’s not my concern.”
    Our conversation reached a stalemate. Attempting to speak with my closest friend about a woman he found so disagreeable was futile and best forgotten, but not for Roderick.
    “I am anxious to see you settled, Manny. I don’t mean you have to marry, just settle and be responsible.”
    “I desire to be settled and I was. Well I thought as much. What I mean to say is that I am doing my best to focus on matters of importance. The Ripper case is far too intriguing to ignore and, rightly or wrongly, I intend to follow it through.”
    Could it be two immortals drifting through centuries, sometimes together, was a bad mix? The challenges we faced, best left ignored, as we did our utmost to live amongst mortals, forced to be but a caricature of our true selves. Level minded Roderick was a rock in my storm, and while his advice was given in good intentions, severing ties would be inconceivable.
    He left on a good note after I informed him, once I had done what I needed to do in Whitechapel, I would, at my earliest convenience, work on expanding the business. With good intentions, attempt to find a suitable manager to take some of the burden. There would be a slight increase in salary for Malcolm, relieving his burden and securing his future. My selfless suggestion went down extremely well. For once I pleased him.
    I retired to sleep on a positive note. News of the files would come soon, enabling me to finally begin the hunt and, in spite of her passions for me, dear sweet Marianne had found happiness at last. Too much free time forced me to become very reflective. The past, present and future collided often in muddled thoughts. My behavior, somewhat impetuous and irresponsible, led me into hot water too many times to mention and, in moments of isolation, memories of the past intruded. I feared the wrath of God from the very first moment I wronged him, straight after I awoke from self-strangulation and scurried far away into obscurity. I had no understanding at that point I was still alive, assuming I had become a phantom ghost and denied access to the kingdom of heaven. Doomed to wander, unseen, for all eternity. Alas, I was to be seen by everyone I encountered, a new beginning in purgatory. My God discussions, prayers and pleads became so entwined in my immortality, I could not imagine ever not talking with him or writing down my thoughts, often no more than mere ramblings.
    ‘God, I harbor a deep desire for you to forgive me my sinful ways. I fully admit to have stolen, fornicated, lied and manipulated before and after my immortality. Yet, the Bible states we are all born with original sin, therefore I am predisposed. But I have confessed, therefore, I do deserve your mercy. What of my dishonest selling of opium? Will that doom me to eternal punishment, or does it matter when I am already in purgatory?’ I asked many times for compassion, forgiveness, understanding and tolerance, often wondering if he had turned his back on me. And… what of Jesus? Was he looking down on me with disdain, or pity and a warm, forgiving heart?
    After a restless night, I awoke to the sound of a knock at the door. It was Edward, with a much anticipated telegram from Albert.
    ‘On my way to you. Stop. Have gift for grandmother.