Scenes from:

The Crusader Mysteries: Case Entries:

The NEW Bomb Squad Club

(The Bomb Squad of Hill View High):
Crusaders in Red

Kelly Reading, President Cara Richardson, Vice President

Kendra “KC” Clark, Secretary Bradley Allen Schmidt, Treasurer
Steven Edwards, Alternate Officer
Adam Smith, Junior Officer Kirsten “Krysti” Farthay, Junior Officer
Lesal DeRose, Spy Officer Miranda English, Spy Officer
Kymm Parker, Alternate Treasurer
Carrie Parker, Alternate Secretary
Allison “Allie” Watson, Private Investigator

Associate Members:
Josh Stevenson, Amanda Jo Applebee, Samantha West
Devin Jones, Elizabeth “Liz” Edwards, Peter Valentine, Quincey Payne

Honorary Members:
Ericka Blumeburg, Sandra Kendricks, Zach Keiths, Brock Cavanaugh
Kevin Woods

The Crusader Mysteries:

Case Entries:
...are based on the actual casebook entries of the actual mystery club members. Join
Kelly, Cara, KC, Bradley, Steven, Adam, Krysti, Lesal, Miranda, Allison, the twins – Kymm and
Carrie, and the rest of their friends and enemies for excitement, danger, fun, adventure, and, of
course, mystery as they try to solve cases around the little town of Hill View. When these eleven
teenagers form a detecting club in Hill View High, everything goes haywire!

THE MEMBERS. . . . .
– Kelly Reading. This 15-year-old President has a nose for trouble . . . and danger. Loves
Detecting. Kelly is special in a magical way. She is the Enchantress of the Dream Realm. Can
she make it through High School without using her powers?

– Cara Richardson: 15-years-old, rich best friend of Kelly who’s Craig’s little sister. Can she
dare to compare with the ever-popular Kelly Reading? Josh has been in her thoughts lately, but
does he feel the same romantic feelings for her?

– Kendra "KC" Clark. The Secretary. Krysti's best-friend and partner-in-crime with a secret --
dyslexia. She surprises everybody by accepting a date with one of Hill View’s most ruthless
bullies, Devin Jones. Will she show them he’s not as bad as everyone says he is?

– Bradley Allen (Schmidt): 16 with a crush on his “step-sister” Kelly. Shy, yet charming and
caring. He finds out he’s adopted, and can finally ask her on a date. Does she feel the same
way? He and Cara are the only ones to know of Kelly’s secret Mystic power. The others only
think it’s pretend. What will it take to convince them otherwise?

– Steven Edwards: Steve likes all sports – and has a wish for cheering! This 15 year old, good-
natured Alternate Officer has a sense of humor no one will ever forget. His best friend, Kelly, he
thinks, is falling for the wrong guy...Is he serious about her himself? What about his main rival,
Krysti Farthay? His heart always pounds around her. Could it be love?

– Adam Smith. Steve’s jocular "twin" cousin, and the Junior Officer. Loves being the class
clown. A Nerd with a “dry” sense of humor. His best friend’s old friend Devin is a part of the
group. Will Adam be able to accept Devin and Peter as his best friends? Miranda has been shy
around him lately, and he wonders why?

– Kirsten “Krysti” Farthay: 14, sporty, yet competitive. She and KC are best friends. What
secrets does she have, even from KC? Deep into their Sophomore year, Krysti and seven others
become Crusaders in California. Now, it’s up to her to keep the secret of the System.

– Lesal DeRose. This Jamaican beauty is one of a pair of Spy Officers, which was her idea.
Loves dancing and acting. Her brother Davey has Down’s Syndrome. Once the others find out,
will they desert her?

– Miranda English. Lesal's anorexic best friend and the other Spy Officer. Shy and distant --
especially to her best friends. Until Adam comes along and lights up her life. Will they be a
couple, or is her eye on his best friend Peter?

– Kimberly “Kymm” Parker and her fifteen-year-old twin Carrie are the Alternate Treasurer and
Secretary of the Bomb Squad. They just love to get in – and out – of trouble. They have a knack
for fun and excitement, but what will happen when tragedy strikes?

– Allison “Allie” Watson: Best friend of the Parkers that loves Rock ‘N’ Roll. Her attitude is
one you could live without, but she’s harmless. When the European Harmony come to Hill
View, she meets her first crush. Will this shy, 15-year-old muster enough courage to talk to him
if he comes to Hill View?

Josh Stevenson: Associate Officer that is Bradley's best friend. Loves playing sports --
especially girl-chasing! Lives next door to the Richardsons. He’s just as spooked as Cara. His
crush on Cara gets stronger as the teams first mystery goes on...does she feel the same?

Amanda Jo Applebee – Kelly’s second cousin with her own secrets of Mystic Magic. Once her
parents die, she and her sister Stacy go to stay with the Readings. Will she ever be as popular at
Hill View High as her fabulous “twin” cousin?

Peter Valentine. The perfectionist Honorary Member. Adam's best friend who thrives for
perfection. As their Senior Year grows closer, so do Peter and Samantha. Does Peter have
feelings for his best friend? What about Miranda?
--Devin Jones. This honorary member is KC's boyfriend that lives for danger and trouble. He,
Samantha, Krysti, Johnny, and Peter were best friends in Junior High before Samantha moved
away. Once he saw what his ‘boss’ Richie was doing to Bradley, he decided to play it straight.
Will he stay that way?

– Elizabeth “Liz” Edwards: This Associate Member is Steve's "valley-girl" twin sister. Head
cheerleader of the Hawks, and no one seems to take this brunette bomb-shell seriously. She’s
pretty, popular, and lonely all at the same time. Will being in the club CHEER her up?

--Samantha West. Associate Officer that is Krysti's old best friend. Used to live in New York
City and is now Devin's Best friend again. Devin, Krysti, Peter, Johnny Kincaid and Sam used
to be the best of friends before her move. Will she be able to get the “group” together again?

--Quincey Payne. This Semi-Associate Member is Lesal's newest catch. He may be quiet most
of the time, but when it comes to detecting, he's ruthless! He has loved Lesal, as well as ballet,
for as long as he can remember.

Later: Ericka Blumeburg, Zach Keiths, Sandra Kendricks, and Brock Cavanaugh join them
for more fun in Hill View High.

Going Places...
Places to Go, People to Meet, Things to Do, and Mysteries to Solve!
Even when The Bomb Squad is away from home, mystery follows. Whether it be
Hollywood, Hawaii, Jamaica, Canada, California, Europe with the European Harmony, at the
System in Shore Point, down-under in Australia, in New York City, or just home for the
holidays--the swish-hip team of Junior Private Eyes of Teen Sleuths Detecting Agency will
eventually solve the case and put the crooks where they belong!
The Club is made up of best friends, who happen to be the best teen-sleuths in Hill View.
Together, these eleven super-sleuths, along with a little help from their friends and enemies,
figure out some of life's little mysteries as well as keeping their friendship going strong. As a
team.

From Hill View High...Lots More Friends!

Adam Martin-Saint James, Rhiannon Bennington, Arianrhod King, Lillian Straus, Cara Daniels,
Natasha Martinova, Laura MacAndrews, Shelley Clark, Ashley Beck, Courtney Schaefer,
Audrey Barnes, Michael Catz, Paulette Fox, Dylan Austin, Elizabeth Edwards, Jessica Wilson,
Jasmine Jamieson, Hannah Bradley, Dianna Schultz, Trini Song, Ian Stains, Sarah Martin-Saint
James, Coko Lorenz, Maria DiAngelina, Brian Templon, Emily Spear, Ramsay Lake, Hope
Dunn, Charity Dunn, Faith Dunn, Julie Dickens, Frankie South, Michelle Bernstein, Mallory
Kim, Becca Perfitt, Vicci Schwartz, Richie Carmichael, Johnny Kincaid, Chloe Addams, Todd
Alexander, Nancy Greene, Geoff Greene, Frank Harrison, Joe Harrison, Joey Phillips, Heather
Broadway, Georgia Woodward, Tessa Straus, Tom Jackson, Parker Saint Claire, Tod Ramsay,
Jason Hall, Marnie Hall, Stu Jacobs, Melissa MacKinnon, Tamara Abbott, Marisa MacKinnon,
Eric Schultz, Greg Jackson, Janet St. Paul, Sean Underhill, Dave Underhill, Alexa Martin,
Kwame and Erik Carter, and Andrew Erickson, Andrew Davis, Angel Pierce.

The Bomb Squad Mysteries: Case Entries:

THE TITLES......
The Bomb Squad Mysteries: Case Entries:
1 Kelly and the Bomb Squad – When Kelly Reading’s best friend warns her about weird
noises in the Catz Mansion, she comes up with an idea to get her friends involved in the case.
Will the revised Bomb Squad of Hill View High be able to solve their very first mystery?
2 Cara vs. the Mystery Machines – Cara Richardson has always been jealous of her best
friend, Kelly. What will happen with Kelly, KC, and Krysti disappear, with an ex-con on the
loose in Hill View? Cara has to take charge, but is she in over her head?
3 Bradley and the Mysterious Secrets – Bradley Allen Schmidt has always had a nose for
trouble, The new neighbors in Hill View are suspicious. Not only that, but a city-wide
Academics Competition is testing Bradley’s true feelings for Kelly. Will they survive?
4 Carrie’s Day to Shine (Both twins) – Kymm and Carrie Parker are everybody’s best friends
at Hill View High. Carrie’s been feeling left out of the fun lately, and decides to run away.
What will Kymm do to get her twin sister back home safely?
5 Lesal and the Trouble with Deaf Ears – When a strange, new girl arrives, Lesal DeRose is
chosen to lead her around school. Lesal finds out her secret – she’s deaf. She wants to get to
know her better, so she spends time with the girl. Is she neglecting the Bomb Squad?
6 Steve’s Rock N Roll Mystery – Steve Edwards has won six free tickets to the European
Harmony concert! Thing is, once backstage, he can tell the band are in trouble. Will the Bomb
Squad be able to solve the case before the members of European Harmony are found dead?
7 Kymm and the Missing Diary Disaster – Someone’s stolen Kymm’s secret diary! Without
getting the Bomb Squad involved, will Kymm and Carrie find it before the whole school finds
out her whole life’s story? Or will they need Kelly and the rest of their friends to help?
8 Krysti’s Hollywood Murder Mystery – KC’s uncle has invited the members of the Bomb
Squad to watch a taping of her favorite show, Days of Love and Hatred. Fun turns to fear when
the loving actress is found, stabbed! Will they be able to find out whodunnit before the press?
9 KC and the HVH Mystery on Cue – back home again, KC and the Bomb Squad have made
the cuts for their school play, Romeo and Juliet. They receive threats to leave the show before
something bad happens to them. Will they find out what’s going on before curtain call?
10 Bradley’s Secret Journal Mystery – In the Reading’s attic, Bradley and Kelly find a journal
of her Great-Great-Aunt Dorianne’s daughter, Melody’s. Within its pages lays a powerful time-
traveling spell. What will happen when Kelly uses her powers to go into the past, getting them
in trouble?
11 Kelly and the Club Competition – A teacher in Hill View High is making trouble for the
Junior and Senior Class, not to mention the Bomb Squad. He splits them up, forcing the girls
against the boys. Will Bradley and Kelly’s relationship survive the club competition?
12 Miranda and the Musical Mayhem – Miranda is dragged to the Music Box by Kelly, who
guarantees learning an instrument will make her feel better. The teachers there are experiencing
things of the paranormal. Will Miranda and Kelly find out what it is before they close down?
13 “Bad Luck” Adam – Friday, the thirteenth of every month spooks Adam Smith. He feels
he’s jinxed, but Miranda has faith in him. The end-of-the-year party preparations for Hill View
High are up to him, now. Will he be able to pull it off in his condition?
14 Cara and the Mysterious Caller – summer’s here, and so are summer jobs for the teens.
Cara’s experiencing some person calling, only to hang up again. Will Cara be able to figure out
the case without Kelly and Bradley’s help, or will she have to admit defeat?
15 Bradley and the Birthday Secret – Kelly’s Sweet Sixteen is here, and Bradley has
something planned for her birthday party. Once pulling it on her, she faints and has amnesia – or
does she? Will Kelly out-wit Bradley in the biggest prank of them all?
16 Allison Saves The Day! – Bad news comes to the Farthays when Krysti’s dad dies. Allie
saves the day with their friends while Kymm and Carrie take a summer job at the Library. What
does Frankie Devon have to do with Carrie’s sudden love for books?
17 Kymm’s Missing Books Caper – the twins’ summer job at the Library just turned into a
mystery. The Librarians are finding a lot of books missing. Cara and Krysti tell Kymm the
Book Nook’s missing some, too. Alone, Kymm connects the mysterious Frankie Devon to the
crimes.
18 Miranda’s Deadly Secret – Revealed! — Someone told Sandra Kendricks Miranda’s secret
– anorexia, making Sandra and her non-club friends disappear and desert her. Meanwhile,
Miranda’s on the Homecoming Committee with the other members. Will she make it through?
19 Adam’s Science Fair Mystery – The Science Fair has come to Hill View High, and Adam
Smith couldn’t be happier. That is, until his project is totally ruined. Will he find out who
trashed him before the judges disqualify him? Meanwhile, Kelly’s twin cousin Amanda Jo starts
as a Jr.
20 Lesal and the Case of Stage Fright – Lesal’s auditions take her to the most prestigious
dance school in Hill View: the Dance Academy. Will she make it out alive? During try-outs for
the Junior Squad, the Unicorns can’t seem to resist starting the yearly prank-war.
21 Bomb Squad Vs The Unicorns (KC) – KC and the Unicorns’ President, Cara Daniels, get in
fights about having Kelly’s twin cousin Amanda Jo as member. When Amanda Jo feels she’s in
the middle, and to blame for their fighting, what will KC and the Bomb Squad do to ease her
mind?
22 Krysti and the Mysterious Clock (Crush) – Krysti finds a weird clock in her attic – it only
chimes at midnight! The only member able to help her out is Steve Edwards. What will happen
when Krysti’s heart and mind change because of him?
23 Bradley and the Stolen Money Mystery – Thanks to the Bomb Squad, Bradley’s the new
Senior-Class treasurer. When money turns up missing, the only suspect is his own girlfriend,
Kelly! Evidence? She’s got a new program for the Crime Computer. Now, to show she’s
innocent, Bradley must solve this thing, and make sure the Senior Trip isn’t canceled.
24 Kelly and the Case of Mistaken Identity – Kelly and Amanda Jo find someone’s playing a
cruel joke on them, blaming them for something they’re not doing. Meanwhile, Adellanda, her
Momma and Amanda’s cousin, has to Crusade to fight the newest Dream Realm Demon named
Zeta. Turns out, Zeta’s the one doing the jokes on Kelly.
25 Adam and 2 Hot 4 U – Adam likes Allie’s idea of singing al capella, and can tell the club
likes it, too. He takes matters into his own hands and forms the club band – 2 Hot 4 U.
Meanwhile, there’s a big test Adam can’t seem to concentrate in studying for. Miranda may help
him, but will he pass the test?
26 Steve and the Mysterious Codes Mystery – Someone’s sending Steve and Adam weird
notes in the mail. They spend the whole week trying to crack them, only to find an invitation to
a secret club they each have to refuse. Allie, in her own world, is in big trouble. The Tri-Delts
have her running around, playing pranks on her best friends.
27 Allie’s Best Friends Caper – The Tri-Delts have accepted Allie as a member, and she’s torn
between them and her best friends. Carrie and Kymm make her feel guilty, which makes her
think about the true meaning of friendship. When she goes to the Tri-Delts, they began doing
things illegally, just to get a high. Will Allie stop to think before she gets deeper into dark
waters?
28 Bradley’s Rock Video Suspicions – Bradley and the team receive an urgent video message
from their friends in European Harmony. Kelly notices something strange in the background of
the video. It’s time to solve the European Harmony’s Crime.
29 Lesal and the Dance Studio Mystery – Kelly and Lesal are both accepted to the Dance
Studio, only to be framed for wrong-doings a week later! She has Kelly to help her solve the
case, not to mention a new boy in class with the hot’s for her! Trouble is, will she break up with
Kwame Carter to go out with Quincey Payne?
30 Kymm and the Incident with Carrie – Carrie’s asked out by Richie Carmichael. Kymm’s
worried, but her twin thinks she’s only jealous. When Richie rapes and beats Carrie, Kymm
feels it, confiding only in Allie. When Carrie’s awakened from the coma, she’s different, and
Kymm has to make up for it. Carrie loses herself in a haze, but has Kymm lost her sister for
good?
31 When a Friendship Turns to Love: Steve’s Story – When Krysti’s away, Steve’s attention
is diverted to his best friend, Kelly. He begins to notice feelings he can’t control. Kelly can tell
Steve’s confused, the very reason she drags him in on her hacker case. Krysti writes to him,
making him think of who he really cares about.
32 Allie and the Romance Epidemic (Disaster) – It’s Valentine’s time, and Allie couldn’t be
more disgusted. That is, until Zach Kieths announces his return to Hill View High, and romance
takes on a whole new meaning. Krysti comes back to Steve and Kelly acting strange. She fluffs
it off when he asks her to the Saint Valentine’s Day dance.
33 Miranda and the New Boy Caper – Miranda begins to feel bad being paired with a loner.
Eric barely speaks to anybody, until Miranda comes into view. Why does she have feelings for
him when she has Adam? Allie’s great idea for earning money has the team helping the
neighborhood.
34 Krysti and the Mystery Locket – Krysti’s stuck mowing the Reading’s lawn when she finds
a peculiar gem. It gives her nightmares, and Kelly has a suspicion she knows who it is – a
Dream Realm demon. Kelly’s mom and aunt Adarra fall ill, and Krysti’s find is the key. They
go to the Dream Realm to fight the demon known as Dominick, which is only the beginning of
Crusading.
35 Kelly’s Dream Realm Crusaders (System#1) – Kelly’s cousin Shannon is hiding
something – Why is the System being taken away from her? Back home is nothing in
comparison: Adam’s pet-sitting with Miranda, Allie and the twins volunteer at the local shelter,
Lesal and KC hear an old legend, and Devin and Peter go clubbing illegally.
36 Bradley and the System (System#2) – Bradley tells of a secret that has been haunting the
System since the Crusades. (Mark Grey) He must Crusade to the Dream Realm to find out the
truth behind a certain Companion named Panther. Back home, KC begins to have nightmares of
the legend, and Mrs. Dratianos must Crusade to help her.
37 Cara to the Rescue! (System#3) – Before returning home, Cara and her friends can’t find
their host. Shannon McNathaniels is missing. The eight of them follow clues left behind for her,
finding Tina Boss, an old enemy of Mrs. Dratianos’s is behind it. Back home in Hill View,
Adam and Miranda are being framed for cat-napping, Allie and the twins learn a lesson in love,
hope and the importance of having dreams. KC is another story altogether.
38 KC and the Legend of Hill View Dunes – Ever since the librarian told her the legend, KC’s
been having nightmares. She researches it and finds the one thing that keeps her up. When the
Crusaders return, they help the others solve their mini-cases.
39 Lesal Vs the Prejudiced Neighbor – Lesal’s new neighbor is rude and prejudiced. They
begin to talk and Lesal soon finds out a few things about she and her friends she’d rather not
know. The Junior-class President announces she’s moving and the Student Council has to
appoint a new one. Lesal and the Club begin to pressure Kelly into running.
40 Kelly For President! – School elections are open, and Kelly’s being pressured to join. Along
with that, Kelly’s second-in-command of the Gazette, and has to choose between the paper,
debate, and running for president. Will this Bomb Squad president be able to handle it by
herself? Or will she have to use magic to manage?
41 Krysti and the Picture-Perfect Mystery – On their way home, Krysti, Cara, and KC find a
roll of film laying on the ground. Ace photographer Josh develops it only to find a picture of a
murder! Along with that, why are The Witches of Hill View hanging around them a lot lately?
42 Bradley and the Witch Project – The Witches of Hill View: Rhiannon, Michael, Dylan,
Paulette, Audrey, and Arianrhod are hanging out with the Bomb Squad more and more. Turns
out, Rhiannon’s in big trouble. A new cult is forming at HVH and Rhiannon and Michael want
Kelly and Amanda Jo to investigate – as insiders. Meanwhile, Steve wants Bradley to help sneak
a puppy from the shelter home.
43 Steve and the Buried Treasure – Liz and Steve find a curious gem in their backyard, by
their new puppy, Sprout. Kelly’s dad and aunt Aimee know about it, but what’s the story behind
it? Will Kelly have to save them from the darkest depths? Or will Mrs. Dratianos rectify the
situation?
44 A Wedding to Remember (Carrie) – Kelly’s Aunt Caroline is getting married! The twins,
Kelly, and Bradley are invited, and, true to their trade, plenty of mysteries pop up. One – the
bride disappears, and the groom is getting anxious. Meanwhile, Allie investigates the mystery of
the Parker’s house – Adellandra Marie’s ghost is haunting it. Why? What will Mrs. Dratianos
and Caroline Parker have to do to help Carrie solve the case?
45 Kelly and the Cult – The new cult in school over-hears what Kelly can do, and asks her to
join. Even long-time enemies, Rhiannon and Arianrhod are starting to ask her to join. She finds
it’s a way to practice the darker side of the Mystic Magic she holds within. What will it take for
Kelly to listen and wake up before she goes in deep?
46 Steve and the Battle of the Sexes: HVH Marriage Project – The Teachers have decided to
mix the kids in a marriage project that nearly splits the team apart. Bradley’s with his ex-
girlfriend, Veronica, Kelly’s with Richie Carmichael, and Steve’s with Lillian Straus. Will they
be able to survive being married to their worst enemies?
47 KC’s Babysitting Scheme (BSD’s #1) – KC gets stuck babysitting the brat across the street
and runs into a mystery. She comes up with an idea of her own. Babysitting Detectives! Becca
and KC hear noises outside at night, and are both scared. Will KC be able to make Kelly proud
of her by solving this thing herself?
48 Kelly’s Babysitting Blues (BSD’s #2) – Kelly’s bummed, for she’s the idea person of the
club. She has to babysit for Miranda’s little brother, Matthew. What secret is this boy hiding
from his own sister? Allie tries to cheer her up by throwing a party, but it doesn’t work. Will
anything cheer Kelly up?
49 Kymm’s Babysitting Disaster (BSD’s #3) – the twins are in a crises. Kymm needs to prove
herself a good detective, along with being a good babysitter. Kelly’s younger twin brothers
aren’t helping any, especially when their cousin Caleb comes in the picture. Not even little
Meredith or Melody are talking about the switch. Will Kymm and Carrie come up with a switch
that will rock the twins’ up? Or will Andrew and Mark Antony finally get the better of her?
50 Miranda’s New Image – Miranda is sick of her appearance – will her friends still love her
when she does something about it? Lesal, Sandy, and Adam are questionable – her attitude’s
changing, and the rest of her friends are worried for her? Is she taking it a little too far?
51 KC and the Mine Shaft Mystery – KC’s stuck in a mine-shaft, and has to find her way out
before she loses consciousness. Meanwhile, everyone’s worried for KC, sending search parties.
Kelly tells Detective Baxter her visions, and she goes to investigate with her.
52 Allie’s “Novel” Idea – Allie takes a creative writing class, using the club notebook as basis
for a competition story. She steals the Crime Computer from Kelly’s house, working on it in
secret. The Parker twins catch her -- will they tell?
53 Cara and Too Many Mysteries – There are finally too many mysteries for the Bomb Squad
alone to solve! They have to employ their Associates to help. What will Josh and the others ask
for in return?
54 Bradley’s Tough Decision – It’s been announced – the biggest decision in Bradley’s life.
Will he move in with his real parents, or stay in Hill View with Kelly, never to meet them again?
55 Never Say Good-bye to True Love: Kelly’s Story – Now that Bradley’s away, Kelly’s
bummed. When Josh comes to console her, they fall for a secret romance. Cara’s too into
cheering to notice any changes in her best friend and boyfriend. Who does Kelly really love –
Bradley Allen or Josh Stevenson?
56 Adam’s Girlfriend Dilemma – Adam’s furious his best friend has been paired on the Parade
Committee with his girlfriend, Miranda. Peter’s making moves Adam wants to forget. Will he
get Miranda’s love back or will neither boy get her, testing their own friendship for each other?
57 Miranda and the Attic Mystery – Miranda has a lot of time on her hands, now that she’s not
dating Adam. When her other best friend Sandra Kendricks is found in her attic, what will she
do? This is a case only Miranda can solve – by herself.
58 Steve, the Cheerleader – Spring try-outs are here for the Junior-Squad of the Hawkettes and
Steve wants to try out for the squad. His friends just think it’s another one of his pranks, but
Steven Edwards has never been more serious! What will it take to convince them he’s serious
about cheerleading?
59 Bradley’s Memories – Despite knowing his real family, Bradley’s depressed. He misses
Kelly, regretting he doesn’t have time to write. In a new school, he claims he sees her
everywhere. Will he go back to Hill View, for a girl?
60 Old Friends, New Friends (Krysti) – Samantha West has moved back to Hill View and
Krysti couldn’t be happier. KC lives in the house Sam used to live in before moving to New
York two years ago. Sam’s depressed because of her parents’ divorce, and Krysti wants to help
her. What will happen when old friends meet the new?
61 Play With Fire, Heat The Flame... Samantha’s Comeback – Samantha speaks out. She
claims KC’s still jealous, Krysti’s trying too hard to get them to be friends, and her old friends
have split into different cliques. What will Samantha do to return things to normal?
62 Lesal and the “Deadly Positions” Mystery – Lesal lands a small part in the Community
Theater’s performance of Peter Pan. When rehearsals begin, she finds someone is trying to
sabotage the set! Will she find out whodunnit before curtain-call?
63 Kymm and the Tease of Hill View High – Kymm isn’t convinced when Veronica
Whitehead, the new tease of Hill View High, wants to go after her sister’s new boyfriend. She
tells Carrie, and it’s a fight to the finish against her!
64 Bradley’s Special Surprise – Bradley has a surprise – he’s coming back to Hill View to stay!
What will he do when he finds Kelly’s been cheating on him with Josh? He wants to go back to
the Waters’. That is, until Kelly and Josh bring he and Cara together for a serious talk. What’ll
happen next to the most romantic couples in Hill View High?
65 “Beauty and the Beast” – Kelly on Strike – Kelly’s so stressed! She and Lesal got major
parts in “Beauty and the Beast,” with Kelly getting the female lead with Richie Carmichael. Not
only that, there’s a rumor going around school about them, and making Bradley distant toward
her. That’s it! Kelly Reading’s on Strike!
66 Cara and the Dream Master Nightmare – Since the System, Cara’s been having
nightmares, and not telling her best friend about it. Kelly’s got a vague idea, but it’s not until the
Dratianos’, the Morehouses, and the Schmidts join in for the Crusade does she actually have any
answers. Will all the Crusaders be able to stop the beast from haunting a fellow Crusader?
67 Adam’s Strange Recovery – Bored, and on a hunch, Adam digs in his backyard. He’s
reminded of the Wishing Stone, and is interested in his new find. A rusty box with no key to
open it. Will he be able to find out what’s in the box before he goes mad? Or will the mystery
haunt him til his grave? Does he even want to know what’s in it?
68 Devin and the Terror On The Slopes – Devin and the rest of the Bomb Squad are invited on
a ski trip to the UP. What he finds there is more than mystery and romance, he finds excitement
at every turn. When Samantha’s caught in the fury of a Mt. McKenzie avalanche, his instincts
tell him he’s in for the ride of his life. What awaits atop Skull Mountain?
69 Sibling Rivalry (The Twins against each other) – One of the hottest guys in school has his
eye on Carrie – or is it Kymm. Each twin wants Johnny Kincaid as their own. It’s a fight to the
finish when the twins fight dirty – against each other!
70 Dance Shoes Steals the Show (Lesal) – A famous French dancer comes to Hill View to
study ballet at the Dance Studio. Lesal’s mentor, Cherie Rouge, is the best one there. The
Mademoiselle may be the best dancer, but she’s hiding a secret, and Lesal’s the best at finding it
out. Will Lesal give the girl confidence to stand up to her crippled father?
71 Kelly and the Witch Switch – Kelly, Amanda Jo, Rhiannon, and Arianrhod get into a load of
trouble when Rhiannon finds a medallion that once belonged to her great-great-grandmother
Marie-Rose. It leads the girls into a magical, mystical, mystery in a modern-day witches coven!
72 Mandy’s Emergency: Bradley’s Story – Miranda’s acting strange, and Bradley wants to
find out why. Her anorexia has turned into something fatal – bulimia. It’s almost too late when
she lands herself in a hospital bed. What’ll happen next?
73 Sam and the Crystal Rose Legend – Being the bookworm she is, when she finds a Crystal
Rose pendant, she researches it, only to find a horrifying legend behind it. She and Kelly take it
to Mrs. Dratianos, who sees a cold-blooded killer behind it. What happened, and why do both
Kelly and her mother have bad feelings about the pendant? (New story idea: this pendant makes
Sam the Over-Seer to the 3rd Generation Crusaders.)
74 KC’s Parent Plot – the truth is out – KC thought she saw her mother in one of Allie’s music
CD-ROMs. KC’s mother is none other than the rock-star CeeCee Yamamoto! She wants to
know one question from her long-gone mother – Why?
75 Kelly’s Special Dream Realm Mystery – It’s nearing the end of the school year, and Kelly
wonders what’s going on with her Momma and aunt Adarra. The menace that had once haunted
Krysti is back to take the Crusaders, one by one. Will Kelly be able to save her family in time?
76 Miranda and the Ultimate Epic – Mr. English wants Miranda and Matthew to clean out the
basement. What they find is a journal of their great-grandmother’s! It tells the story of a lonely
woman brought to Hill View for hope, love, life, and freedom.
77 Carrie and the Twin Switch – Their junior-year is almost over, and the twins want to pull a
switch no one will be able to figure out! A Non-switch, to totally confuse their family, friends,
and enemies!
78 Bomb Squad Save the Earth (Sort Of) (Samantha) – Hill View is falling apart and it’s up
to the HVH Habitat Society to pick up the pieces. Will Samantha be able to handle such a big
project on her own?
79 Devin and the HVH Treasure Hunt – The Vice-Principal, Mrs. Cleaver, wants to make the
Seniors’ last month fun, so she puts together a treasure hunt that has Devin and the others
hunting for friendship, trust, and teamwork.
80 Allie’s Wish – This is it – the last day of HVH for the Seniors, and Allie has but one wish –
to become her own woman. The whole team gathers for a mega-slumber party at the Dratianoss
that has them reminiscing and telling secrets they have deep inside. What’s Allie’s Secret?

Bomb Squad Super Mysteries:

#1 Hawaii, Here We Come!
#2 Winter Wonderland
#3 Mystery Mansion Weekend
#4 Stranded!
#5 On the High Seas
#6 California Cool
#7 G’Day Bomb Squad!
#8 European Sleuths
#9 Happy Holidays, Bomb Squad!
10 New York, New York!
11 Dream Realm Crusaders
12 A Jamaican Dream Come True
13 Halloween Spooked
14 The Marriage Of A Lifetime

Summer Sizzler Trilogy:

#1 The Summer Wedding
#2 The Summer Bash
#3 The Summer Sizzler

Bomb Squad Senior Year:

#1 Senior Year
#2 Lesal's Dream Come True
#3 Stuck in a No-win Situation
#4 The Time Bandits (Special Agents #1 of 2)
#5 The Evil Twin (Special Agents #2 of 2)
#6 Love, Lies, and Josh Stevenson (Lovers #1)
#7 Peter and The Great Romance (Lovers #2)
#8 The Trouble With Relationships: Devin's Story (Lovers #3)
#9 Bradley's Great Computer Caper
10 You're Not Who You Say You Are...
11 Kendra Clark, Rock Star's Daughter
12 Starring Kirsten Farthay
13 Miranda's Family Secret
14 Kelly Reading, Advisor to the World
15 Dreams Become Reality: Cara's Tale of Terror
16 What Your Parents Don't Know...
17 Innitiates + Best Friends = Big Trouble
18 The Fourth Dimension
19 KC, Super Star Sleuth?
20 Reminisce...

Magna Editions:
#1: The HVH Graduation Game
#2: The Night to Remember
#3: College Bound

THE BOMB SQUAD ROMANCES:

The Crusaders are going to the System for Spring Break. They’ll learn more than
detecting!
#1 True Love – (All Crusader Couples)
#2 Forever and Always
#3 Love Lost
#4 Forever Yours, Hopefully
#5 Missing You, Always
#6 Together Again -- At Last!

THE BOMB SQUAD MYSTERIES: EXTRA! EXTRA!

The Bomb Squad has never been in so much danger! They're in for the ride of their lives...
#1 In The King's Court (Steve)
#2 The McCoy Murder (Kelly)
#3 The HVH Drug Ring (Devin)
#4 Newspaper Scandal (KC)
#5 The Computer Hacker (Bradley)
#6 The Fireball Match (Quincey)
#7 Curse of the Wishing Stone (Liz)
#8 Bewitched, Beware! (Michael)
#9 Kidnapped! (Sandra)
10 Never Underestimate Me! (Cara D.)
11 Which Witch is Which? (Rhiannon)
12 The Switch that Made History(Adam)
13 Live in Terror... (Lesal)

THE BOMB SQUAD: THRILLER CHILLERS!!

 #1 On the Run -- Miranda
#2 The Haunted House Mystery – Kelly
#3 Come, Follow Me -- Carrie
#4 Needed, But Deadly -- Kendra "KC"
#5 The Haunting of a Century --All
#6 Forever Haunting -- Lesal
#7 Seven Generation Curse -- Peter
#8 Murder On The Line -- Bradley
#9 Nightmares -- Josh
10 The Bell Tower -- Samantha
11 The Secret Key -- Krysti (was: Adarra and the Secret Key Mystery)
12 The Dream Realm Riddler -- Steve
13 Secret of Deadman's Hill Park – Liz (on a dare, Liz goes with Steve to the park, and finds
out why it’s called Deadman’s Hill. Everyday, something lures her there. Every day, that same
thing gives her nightmares. Finally, Liz decides to do something about it. It’s her duty as the
newest member of the renowned Bomb Squad to get to the bottom of the mystery. She must find
out the truth behind Deadman’s Hill Park. Will she solve the case before she goes insane from
the nightmares?)
14 The Mystic Connection - Amanda Jo
15 Curse of the Catz -- Cara
16 Sweet Sixteen, Die! -- Rhiannon
17 Legend of the Catz Amulet -- Kelly
18 No Day At The Park -- Adam

THE BOMB SQUAD’S GHOST STORIES:

#1 Ghost That Haunted Hill View
#2 The Murders of 1899
#3 The Attic Ghosts
#4 The Ghost of Center Court
#5 The Surfer Ghost
#6 The Ghost Horse
#7 The Carnival Ghost
#8 The Ghost in the Graveyard
#9 The Stage Ghost
10 The Haunted Barn
11 The Ghost Twins (The Catzs')
12 The Ghost Cop
13 My Mom, the Ghost (Mandy's Mom)
14 The Prom Ghost
 Kelina “Kelly” Reading:
Age 16 Position: President
Case Entry #1:
Kelly and the Bomb Squad

Kelly's "Great" Idea

When Kelly Reading and her friends embark on -- and try to solve -- a case of the mysterious
noises, everything goes haywire! Something’s fishy in Hill View, and Kelly’s heart is changing
beats -- she feels romantic over her brother, Bradley Allen! At the Catz Mansion, Kelly and
Bradley think it's someone vaguely familiar, the Parker twins seem to think it's the ghost of
Jeremiah Catz, and the rest of the crime-fighting gang doesn't have a clue!
Then, when all hope seems to be lost, Steve Edwards and Kelly find a glitch in the case to solve
it.
But will Teen Sleuths Detecting Agency solve their first case? Or is Kelly's "Great" idea not such
a great idea after all?

Scene From: Case Entry:

#1 Kelly and the Bomb Squad:

After I finished writing, I sat up to read what I had written.

"I still don't know where I've seen this Maurice character before." I said softly to myself,
sighing.
Obviously, it wasn't soft enough.
I heard a familiar male voice remark with a chuckle, "Talking to yourself again, Kelly?"
I turn my head slightly to meet Bradley's big brown eyes. He still had a bruise about the size
of a golf ball over his left eye. He had his glasses on, which was a good thing, considering it
could’ve been worse.
"Yeah," I told him, smiling nervously at the old joke. "I'm not as crazy as I sound, though."
As soon as Bradley sat down, he immediately saw my notes. "What's all this?" He asked,
pointing to the papers on the table.
"I was just going over the case on paper." I explained. "Want to see?"
"Sure," Bradley replied, shrugging.
"Well," I started after I gave him a chance to look them over. "What do you think?"
He looked at me and nodded his approval. "Great notes, Kel. What are your personal
thoughts?"
"For one, I realized that Maurice, the odd caretaker of the Catz mansion, is a terrible liar."
"Obviously," Bradley added, nodding, "because of the fact that he told the two of us very
little of the legend, and the twins a totally different story. That, when we try putting two and two
together, doesn't make any sense what-so-ever."
"That may be right, Bradley." I told him, shaking my head. "But that wasn't what I was trying
to figure out."
"What were you trying to decipher then?"
"When and where I first saw Maurice." I started to explain softly, "I had a weird feeling that I
had seen him somewhere before."
Bradley was silent, staring into space, and lost in thought. "We may have something here,"
He replied, letting his voice trail.
"Yeah, I know." I agreed, nodding my head. "Question is: What?"
Bradley came out of his deep thought trance and replied, "Inquiry."
"Yeah?"
"Why are you focusing your attention on Maurice?" Bradley asked. "We've got a mystery to
solve."
"I have a hunch he’s part of the mystery.” I told him. “I mean, Cara and Josh didn’t report it
to anybody until after he came along. Sound fishy to you?”
Bradley nodded, then looked up into my eyes. He took my hand and kissed my cheek. “I’m
sorry I snapped earlier. I didn’t mean it.”
I smiled. “I know, and you’re forgiven. You were just stressed because of the fight.”
“Yeah, that’s it.” Bradley supplied.
We turned back to my notes, reading them over again.
"What are we going to do about the mystery?" Bradley asked after a while. "And why are
you focusing your attention on Maurice? And why --"
"Bradley!" I cried, cutting off mid-sentence. "If you’d stop, I'd be able to explain!"
Before I got a chance to open my mouth, the bell bonged, signaling lunch to begin. I gathered
up my books, notebook, and papers. We then headed toward the double-doors leading into the
hallway.
As Bradley and I put our stuff in the locker, I asked him, "Do you still wish you'd never let
me drag you into one of my plans?"
Bradley sighed, staring into space. He turned to me saying, "You know what, Kelly?
Without your schemes to keep me on my feet, life’s pretty boring." Bradley paused as he shut the
locker, leaning against it. "So I guess the answer would be 'No.'" He replied, sparkling one of his
one-hundred watt smiles at me.
"That's sweet of you." I said, smiling back.
I cradled the book with my notes on the case under my arm. I hoped to have the rest of the
club help me figure it out. If my idea was going to work, I’d need all the help I could get!
With that in mind, the two of us headed toward the lunchroom. As we arrived at our usual
table, we saw that the usual gang was already there.
Bradley and I said "Hi," to everyone when we had received our lunches.
Lesal and Krysti were sitting next to each other. KC, Adam, Steve, and Peter Valentine sat
together. Peter is Adam's best friend; a real perfectionist. Cara was seated next to Josh.
I did a double-take, just to make sure I saw Josh Stevenson sitting next to Adam and Peter.
Usually, he sits at the "jock" tables with the rest of the sports-jocks. I saw Allie Watson was
sitting with the twins at the end of the table.
When Bradley and I sat down, Cara asked, "You look frazzled. What’s up?"
"Give me a chance," I replied. "I've had a very rough morning."
"She's been a zombie," Bradley supplied to the others as I played with my food. "She hasn't
been able to think about anything except where she saw Maurice before."
Steve looked confused. "Who's Maurice?"
"You remember him, Steve." Josh responded, butting in before I could say anything. "He's
the old care-taker at the Catz mansion."
Steve thought for a moment. Then, as if remembering something, he nodded. "Oh, yeah!" He
replied. “I remember him, now! When I saw him the day that I was at your house, he reminded
me of this dude I saw on Crime Busters; nick-named 'Crazy Jake .'"
 I looked at my best friend, and let his words sink in. He reminded me of this dude I saw on
Crime Busters; nick-named 'Crazy Jake' ... I thought silently to myself.
Before I could say anything, Lesal asked me, “Why are you carrying around a notebook?”
“These are just the notes I wrote down having to do with the case.” I told her. I handed the
notebook to her. “Wanna see?”
She nodded, and I let Lesal read my notes.
“This is a really good idea, Kelly.” Krysti, who was sitting next to her, complimented,
looking over her shoulder. She passed the notebook around the table.
I smiled broadly. “Thanks, Krys.”
As the notebook made it’s way around the table, I thought again about Steve’s remark. He
reminded me of this dude I saw on Crime Busters; nick-named 'Crazy Jake' ... I replayed it over
and over in mind.
A moment later, when I looked up at my friends, my face lit up.
“That’s it!”I exclaimed excitedly, slapping my hand on the lunch table and standing up.
"Why didn't I think of that before? I mean, it's my favorite detective-show on TV! Why couldn't I
remember that?"
My words were coming out faster than I could think them.
“What’s it?” Josh asked.
“That’s exactly who Maurice reminds me of.” I looked around to my friends. I sat down
again once catching the laughing eyes of Steve Edwards across the table.
"Huh?" My friends replied in unison.
“What are you talking about?” KC asked.
"Don't you guys get it?" I asked, glancing at each of their faces, ecstatically. "If we catch
'Crazy Jake' and hand him over to the police, we'd be famous!"
My mind was working in overdrive -- I had an idea.
Sort-of.
Krysti stared at me, then said sarcastically, "Just how are we going to do that?"
For the first time that day, I was totally speechless.
I shrugged my shoulders. "I don't know." I sighed, laying my elbows on the table and
placing my chin in my hands.
“The great Kelina Erin Reading is dumbfounded!” Steve quipped, slapping hands with
Adam. He rubbed his hands together. “Ah, I can smell the dough now. That money is mine.”
“It’s not over yet, Steven Antony Edwards.” I spat back with a grin. “Oh, and don’t ever
call me that again, understand?”
“Why not?” KC asked. “It’s your real name, isn’t it?”
Cara, Bradley and I looked at each other.
“I only let my family call me that when I’m in trouble.” I said, then grinned. “Back to
basics, guys. Any ideas on how to capture ‘Crazy Jake’?”
The table was silent for ten minutes while we ate and racked our minds for a plan.
Moments later, Josh spoke up. "How about if we sneak up to the mansion and ring the
doorbell. Then, while a few of us talk to the old puss, the rest could..."
Of course, Josh's words sunk in, but I tuned them out after a while. I was too busy trying to
think of a perfect plan of my own to put in my suggestions. I sighed, wondering about whether
to use some of Krysti's idea or not, which was similar to Josh's, but more silly. Just then, it came
to me. I had the perfect plan. I snapped my fingers loudly, exclaiming, "That's it!"
My face lit up again that afternoon, and my friends stared at me with confusion.
 “Again?” KC giggled.
Bradley, who was seated across the table, glared at me. Steve rolled his eyes and shook his
head. Krysti and KC glanced at each other, then toward me as if I'd suddenly grown another
head. Adam and his best friend, Peter Valentine, stared at me. The twins looked at each other,
then me. Lesal played with the contents of her lunch tray. Allie’s bubble popped as she looked
up from her magazine. Josh glanced at me and sighed.
I; on the other hand; who loved watching my best friends being held in suspense, smiled
mysteriously around the table.
The one who was the first to speak was Kymm Parker. “What is it and how can we help?”
With that, I told my ultra-swish plan to my friends.

Scene From: Case Entry #11:

Kelly and the Club Competition

I raced down the corridor to my locker as fast as I could. I didn’t want to run into Bradley, or
the other boys for that matter, anytime soon. I saw Krysti and KC talking by their locker, which
was next to Mr. Hopper’s classroom.
“Kelly!” KC yelled when she saw me.
I stopped in front of her. “What’s up, KC?”
Krysti shoved a note in my hands. “Read this.”
I looked at it and read it aloud.
“‘Girls think they rule, we say “NOT!”
Boys are the best, ‘cause we are hot.
Put us to the test, we’ll give you a crime,
who wrote this note, we’ll give you plenty of time.
Take a guess, we’re sure you’ll lose.
This bet is on, so we’ll make you choose. The Guys.’”
I looked up and rolled my eyes. “What is their problem?”
“I don’t know, Kelly, but I’ll tell you what.” Krysti replied, taking the note back from my
hands.
I looked at her. Krysti wasn’t able to say anything, because KC tugged at her sleeve, making
her look over my shoulder.
“The guys are coming this way.” KC whispered to us. “Led by none other than Steve
himself.”
I turned and faced a very smug and sarcastic Steven Edwards. With him was Adam, Devin,
Peter Valentine (Adam’s perfectionist best friend), Josh Stevenson (Cara’s new boyfriend), and
coming behind them, with a sad look on his face, was my boyfriend, Bradley Allen.
“What have you got there, Kelly?” Steve asked, keeping his impish smile.
I stared him down. “You should know. You wrote it.”
“How do you know? Maybe one of the other guys wrote it?” He asked, starting into my
eyes.
I didn’t say anything. “Maybe you did write it, making us think someone else wrote it?” I
asked.
Steve laughed. “Here’s your next clue, girls.” He handed me a piece of paper. “Who wrote
it? Was it the stupid, but reliable Adam? Jock of the block, Josh Stevenson, or the Perfectionist
Peter? What about the debonair Devin, or the ever-popular riddler Bradley Allen?” He grilled.
“Maybe it could have been Michael Catz? You never know, Kelly Reading. It could have been
anybody.” He laughed and we watched as Steve lead the boys in the opposite direction.
Bradley gave me a look I’ll never forget. He made me look away, sad.
My boyfriend seemed to be saying, “I’m sorry.”
I sighed.
“We’ll show them, right Kelly?” Asked a determined Krysti Farthay.
“Huh, oh yeah.” I replied without thought. “I’ve gotta go. See you guys at the meeting.”
I left then, hugging my books as I made my way to the locker Bradley and I shared, tears
welling up in my eyes.
I hope this competition didn’t last much longer. I can’t stand it when I couldn’t talk to
Bradley about the even simplest things in my life. I hated not being able to see him.
My parents: His adopted Dad was my Daddy, and my Momma. They knew something was
up, and were worried. Bradley and I had grown up like brother and sister, living next door to
each other since I moved to Hill View when we started elementary school. Bradley had always
been my best friend and confidant. Whenever one of us was sad, the other was right there to
comfort them. It was magical, until we started high school.
I started to see things in Bradley I knew was wrong. I wanted to love him like a girlfriend. I
daydreamed about him in classes, and he began to care more in a gentler way. We looked at
each other through a whole new light. I wanted so much, and even asked my Daddy if I was bad
in thinking these things.
That’s when he told me the news: Bradley Allen was adopted, about the same time I was.
We were so excited! We could be more than just friends.
A week later, the Bomb Squad solved its first case, and Bradley and I declared our love to
each other as well as our friends.
It was more than just a mystery for me. For me, it was a beginning.
I head out the door after school and hear someone following close behind me. “Hey, Liz.” I
said softly. “Steve’s ditched you, huh?”
“How’d you guess?” She asked lightly as she found herself by my side. “I’m not used to
being without him after school, besides sports.”
“Yeah. I feel that way about Bradley.” I told her. “This whole club competition is getting to
me. I don’t know why Krysti had to bet Steve. I feel it’ll not only break up the group, it’ll break
up a lot of friendships.”
“Not to mention you and Bradley, right?” Liz asked me.
I looked at her and nodded. “Nothing’s the same anymore. I feel so far away from
everybody. It’s hopeless, Liz. I’m so depressed!”
Liz patted me on the back. “Don’t think of it that way. Think of it as a way of testing your
love for Bradley. If you survive the bet, you’ve won out against Steve.”
I smiled for the first time in hours. “Thanks, Liz. I appreciate it.”
She pointed to her head. “Don’t think I’m letting my twin off that easily, though. I have a
plan of my own.”
“What’s that?”
“He’s giving us an easy mystery, right?”
“Yeah, so?”
“So, we’ll give him a treasure hunt that’ll show the boys they need us.” Liz said with a grin.
She told me her plan as we walked in her house. “What do you think?”
I smiled at her, giving my best friend’s twin sister a high-five. “Brilliant, Elizabeth. Simply
brilliant.”
She bowed, giggling. “Thank you, Kelly.”
We headed upstairs to her room to put her plan into action.

Chapter Fourteen
Melody Speaks
On Saturday, I was playing a guessing game with Theodore in my room when I heard a
terrible scream. Sensing some danger, I raced downstairs with him, crying out. “Momma!
Daddy Derrick! Where are you?”
“In the den. Hurry!” Came my step-dad’s voice from the other room.
I found them, sitting on the floor with Melody in the middle of her toys, crying. Actual,
vocal crying.
I couldn’t believe it. For the first time in her young life, she’s crying. I dropped Theo to the
floor. He raced to Melody and Momma, an actual smile on his face.
“My baby, crying.” Momma hugged her, tears coming from her eyes.
“This is great!” Daddy Derrick cried. “Do you know what this means, Adellandra?”
“She can talk.” Momma kissed her blond head.
“I can’t believe it.” I breathed, sitting on the floor next to them. “Melody can talk.”
“I wonder why she hasn’t spoken before?” Daddy Derrick asked. “Do you know?”
Momma looked guilty, as if hiding a secret meant to be kept. “Remember our late-night call
last week?” He nodded. “Well, it was none other than Melody Applebee, the voice of our
daughter.”
Derrick’s voice turned serious, and he pushed up his glasses. “Explain.”
Before she could open her mouth, we heard the front door slam and my twin step-brothers
barging in the room.
“Come in here, boys.” Momma called.
Mark was first to come in. “What did we do now?”
Momma grinned. “Nothing yet, Mark Antony. We just have something to tell you, that’s
all.”
“Another family meeting?” Andrew asked, unenthusiastically.
“Don’t get sarcastic, Andrew James.” Derrick warned.
The twins sat down on the couch.
Momma looked at each of us. “That late-night call was from Melody Applebee, who I had
never met before. She claimed to need my help, as the Lady Guardian. Turns out, she is
Dorianne’s daughter, reincarnated. She told me, three years ago, her Magic began to go haywire.
It began to have a magnetic effect, where everything she used magic on would come at her. It
took some fast Crusading, which is what Adarra and I were doing while you and Bradley
watched.” Momma flashed me a smile. “Our daughter Melody is the reincarnated Melody
Jacobs.”
“I don’t understand.” Mark asked. “How can that be if both Melodys are alive?”
“That’s what I don’t understand.” Derrick looked at Momma, wondering what she had in
mind. I wondered, too.
“I didn’t either, at first.” Momma continued. “When our Melody was born, only the Magic
from the other Melody came with her. The other Melody, out there, somewhere, was our little
girl’s voice.”
 Sounded intense, and I couldn’t wait to tell Bradley.
“Can I go and tell Bradley?” I asked, excited.
“Go ahead. Tell him to bring your father and aunt Aimee, okay?” Momma said.
I nodded.
“What about Aunt Adarra and Uncle Shane?” Andrew asked.
“They’ll want to know, too.” Mark supplied after him.
“If you’re going to go boys, then go already.” Daddy Derrick teased his sons.
The three of us went out the door, and I headed next door.
I turned the knob of Daddy’s house and walked in. “Daddy? Aimee? Bradley? Anybody
home?”
Aunt Aimee came into the room to greet me. “What a nice surprise?”
I couldn’t hold my excitement. “Melody spoke!”
“You’re kidding me.”
I shook my head. “Where’s Daddy and Brad?”
“They’re here, I’ll get them.” Aunt Aimee turned to walk away, but I stopped her.
“Let me tell them, okay?”
Aunt Aimee grinned, nodding.
A few minutes later, the three of them came to greet me.
“What’s all the excitement, sweetie?” Daddy asked.
“Melody spoke!” I repeated. I took their hands and pulled them next door with me.
“Calm down, Kel!” Bradley laughed behind me.
“I can’t calm down. My step-sister, who hasn’t uttered a single sound since she was born,
finally spoke.” I told him.
As soon as we greeted Momma back in the living room, Daddy gave her a hug.
“This is absolutely great, you guys.” Daddy told her. “When?”
“Just a few minutes ago.” Derrick said. “She screamed.”
“She just screamed, out of the blue?” Aimee asked. “Why?”
I thought over what Momma told us about Melody Applebee. “She’s now complete.”
Momma looked over to me and grinned. “Precisely.”
“Alright, Adellandra Dratianos.” I heard Uncle Shane’s voice behind me. “What’s the big
deal?”
Aunt Adarra was right behind him, with Caleb, Logan and Meredith at her side. “It better be
an emergency, big sister.”
“Melody’s now complete.” Momma said simply.
“You mean, Melody Applebee’s dead?” Adarra asked.
“It’s the only way, Lu.” Momma told her.
“I’ve got an idea.” Uncle Shane said. “Why don’t we all go out to eat to celebrate?”
Everyone thought it was a good idea, and even Melody clapped, laughing. The five boys
cheered, Bradley and I hugged, kissing, and Meredith jumped for joy.
Scene From: Case Entry #45:
Kelly and the Cult

I tried to think of something to say while the Cheetahs contemplated over whether I should
be the next innocent victim to join the cult.
Sarah Martin-Saint James, Arianrhod King, Brooke Dunn, Rhiannon Bennington, Bethany
Perkins, Belinda McKay, Bridget Nelson, Babette George, and Bettina Goslar stared at me,
waiting for me to answer their question.
"Well, Kelly." Belinda McKay said, snapping her gum. "Are you in, or not?"
"Are you going to be one of us, or are you going to stay with your boring friends?" Rhiannon
Bennington asked me, looking from her best friend, Arianrhod King, then back to me.
"Do I have to answer?" I asked, biting my lower lip so hard I tasted blood.
"Yes. You do." Bettina Grosler said matter-of-fact.
I sighed.
"OK. I'm in." I said reluctantly. "I'll be a Cheetah.'"
"Not so fast, Kelly." Belinda said, glancing at me. "As the president and founder of 'The
Cheetahs,' it is my job to make sure you're worthy of our trust."
I looked at them. “What do you mean?”
“You have to prove your worth, that’s all.” Brooke Dunn supplied.
“How?”
“We will assign you a certain task.” Belinda replied.
“Based on the completion of that task, we will decide if you are worthy of being a Cheetah.”
Bethany supplied.
“What kind of task?” I asked, not really liking what I was hearing.
"Ve vill let vous know af-ter school to-day." Babette George said in halting English. Babette
is a Foreign exchange student from France. "In ze court-yard."
"I can't be there, guys." I told them truthfully. "I have a newspaper meeting, and I called an
emergency meeting of the Bomb Squad. Each are expecting me to be there."
"Well," Arianrhod replied. "You're going to have to miss it, aren't you?"
I started to protest, but I was interrupted first by Bethany Perkins saying "See Ya later
Kelly!," then by the lunch bell bonging.
I caught Rhiannon’s arm. “What are you getting me into, Rhiannon Bennington?”
“There’s nothing to worry about.” Rhiannon whispered. Arianrhod was beside her and
nodded her head. “This is really important to me; I need you to do this to save me.”
“We suspect them of using the dark Craft for their own gain.” Arianrhod supplied. “What
did you sense from them?”
I sighed. “Brooke’s out of her league, Belinda’s out of her mind, and the rest are just pawns
in the Bettina’s schemes.”
“What is Tina scheming?” Rhiannon asked.
“You’ve got premonition, you tell me. You know them better than I do.” I shrugged.
“I didn’t get a chance to touch her, so I don’t know.” Rhiannon said.
“What about you, Arianrhod?” I asked. “Any clairvoyant visions?”
“Not really.” Arianrhod said. She tugged Rhiannon’s arm. “We’ve gotta split.”
“Don’t worry, Kelly. Your magic is still a secret.” Rhiannon supplied, following Arianrhod
in the other direction.
I picked up my lunch tray, and threw it in the trash, sighing. I headed toward my locker, and
reached it without anyone from the Bomb Squad seeing me.
"Kelly, there you are!" I heard a familiar male voice exclaim.
Scratch that -- almost anyone.
"Bradley." I greeted, forcing a smile. "Hi."
"Where were you at lunch?" My boyfriend asked, retrieving his afternoon books from the
locker. "I missed your big mouth."
I rolled my eyes, groaning.
 "Something tells me I hit a bad nerve." I heard him exclaim as I sifted through my backpack
for a pencil. "Care to talk about it?"
"Not right now." I told him firmly.
"Can I ask a question?" He asked, slamming the locker shut, and falling in step with me.
We had the same class together for English, Ethics, and Home Ec; so I couldn't avoid him
forever. I stared at him.
"Is it something I said?"
Is that what he thought was on my mind? I had to laugh.
"No." I assured him, squeezing his hand. "Rest assured my problem has nothing to do with
you, Bradley."
We entered Miss Farnsworth's Home Economics classroom before the bell bonged.
As we sat down, Bradley asked, "We still have time before the bell. What’s going on?"
"Them." I told him, pointing to Rhiannon and Arianrhod, who also had this class. Lucky me.
As usual, they were sitting together in a corner.
"What did they want?"
"They, along with the rest of 'The Cheetahs' wanted me to join their club." I explained. I
continued by telling him the horrible story.
"Ouch." Bradley said sarcastically, screwing up his face. He cleared his throat, turning
serious again. "Are you going to do it?"
"I don't think so, Bradley." I told him. "I have many things to do after school. For one, I
called an emergency meeting of the Bomb Squad, and I intend to be there. For another, I have a
newspaper meeting to go to before the Bomb Squad that I have to be at -- for editors only." I
explained to my boyfriend, slumping in my seat. “You know me whenever someone I know’s in
trouble.”
“You can’t wait to get your nose into it, can you?” Bradley teased.
“You got it.”
To my surprise, and relief, the bell bonged, and Miss Farnsworth started class.
“Just make sure the Witches of Hill View don’t talk you into anything you don’t want to do.
You know how they are.” Bradley said.
How I knew?

Scene From:
Super Mystery #1: Hawaii, Here We Come!
All, inc. Craig, Peter, Kevin, and Andrea (R.)

Prologue
Boredom in Hill View, Michigan

"Business has been slow." I replied to my cousin, Amanda Jo Applebee.

"Very slow." Amanda Jo echoed, bored. Amanda Jo and I were in our room. She was
playing a video game on the computer, and I was reading another Nancy Drew mystery -- for the
second time this month, and even I was bored. "I am soooo bored!" Amanda Jo cried, slumping
in her seat. She quit the game and turned off the computer. Turning to face me, she sighed
dramatically.
"I get the point, Amanda Jo." I replied, not enthused, giving her the "bored" eye. (You
know, its like the evil eye, but instead of being mean, its bored.) "I wish there where at least
something exciting happening in boring old Hill View." I retorted, marking a space in my book.
"There might not be anything in boring old Hill View, but I think I can change that."
Someone from behind said with a chuckle.
"Whatever do you mean, Kevin?" Amanda Jo asked her cousin, my uncle, sneaking a glance
at me.
"Yeah. What she said." I said with a grin.
"Come downstairs for the family meeting, and find out." He said, disappearing down the
hall.
Reluctantly, we followed close behind.
"What the heck," I told Amanda Jo. "There might be a mystery involved."
She grinned, rolling her eyes.
When we arrived, we saw Daddy, Momma, Bradley Allen (my brother-turned-boyfriend),
my step-brothers Mark-Antony and Andrew James (twins), my little sister Melody, Amanda Jo’s
sister Stacy, my cousins Caleb and Meredith, and Aunts Aimee, Adarra, uncles Shane and Kevin
gathered around the table.
At the head of the table was as usual, Daddy Derrick. He stared at each of us with a stern
look.
I could tell there was going to be trouble.
To my surprise, when the room was silent, his face turned from an awesome frown, to a
fantastic smile! "Kids, how would you like to go somewhere different for a change, to get away
from boring old Hill View?"
We looked at each other, and shrugged.
"I can tell how much you're beginning to hate summer in Hill View, so I've decided to take
you with me on my business trip to Hawaii!" Daddy Derrick announced, smiling.
I was awestruck, as were my brothers and cousins. Bradley hugged me and we whooped for
joy.
"Are we allowed to bring friends?" I asked.
I couldn't stand to be in Hawaii without the rest of my friends in the Bomb Squad. It would
be unethical. It would be, well, stupid not to bring them along.
Confidently, Derrick nodded, and I asked, "How many?"
"As many as you wish." He said. He paused. We all knew there was going to be some sort
of catch involved. "Within reason, of course." He finished.
Amanda Jo and I screeched at each other.
This was the official start of one of the best summers in my life.
The Bomb Squad was going to Hawaii!

Chapter One
Kelly: Introductions Are In Order

Scene From:
Super Mystery #4: Stranded!

Kelly:
I stared out the window of Josh's blue truck, thinking.
"Hey, guys?" Josh called from the driver's seat.
 "What's wrong, Josh?" Miranda asked.
"Does either of you know where we are?"
I looked to my friends, then at the scenery. I didn't have a clue and, obviously, neither did
they.
"I knew it!" Adam joked from the backseat, laughing. "We're lost! I should've known that
you didn't have any idea how to get to the party. I just had that gut instinct."
"The only gut instinct you'd ever have buddy, is in the pit of your stomach!" Josh replied,
smiling at Adam in the rear view mirror.
"Speaking of stomachs, I have to eat something soon." Miranda confided, glancing at the
three of us.
"Come on, you guys." I said. "We're getting off the original subject here."
"Yeah." Josh replied. "Do any of you know where we are?"
The three of us shook our heads no.
We rode in silence until we came to an abrupt stop. Josh cursed, slamming his hand on the
dashboard.
"What's wrong?" I asked. I was getting annoyed. The one thing I don't get very often, but
when I do, I get even.
"I don't know, Kelly." Josh replied, stepping out off the truck and checking under the hood.
The rest of us followed.
"Why don't the two of you try to find a phone someplace, OK?" I instructed Miranda and
Adam in my best club-president's voice.
"Roger and out, sir." Adam kidded, saluting.
Miranda looked at me, giggling, and rolled her eyes.
As soon as they left, I walked over to Josh, who had his head under the hood. He was playing
with something, looking extra busy. I could tell that he had something on his mind.
"Now that they're gone, Josh, what's wrong?" I asked him.
"I knew I never should've agreed to take you guys to Stephanie's party." He cried, upset.
Again, he punched the helpless truck.
I frowned. I stood beside him, with my arm on his back. I squeezed gently, to let him know I
was there in case he wanted to talk. "I happen to know for a fact that the reason you're mad is
neither because the truck's down nor because of some stupid party."
Josh looked at me, then said, "You're right. It's not."
"May I inquire why, then?"
He smiled. "You, dear Kelly, have been spending way too much time around Bradley. You're
beginning to talk like him!"
"Oh, really now?" I asked, deliberately talking like Bradley. Anything to put a smile back
on Josh Stevenson's face. "Seriously, what's wrong?"
He shrugged, not bothering to look at me. He was paying close attention to his work, staring
at his hands.
"Come on, Josh." I said. "You can't hide it inside forever, you know."
He stopped what he was doing, and looked at me. "You want to know what's wrong?"
I nodded. "Yes, I do."
"Why?" He asked, stepping away from the truck. He sat down on the grass and I sat down
next to him.
I said, "Because I care. That's why." He was silent, refusing to meet my eyes. "Please tell
me. What's wrong?"
 "Just the fact my best friend has the best girl in school, and I can't even get her to notice I'm
alive." Josh said sadly, picking at the grass clippings.
I placed a comforting hand on his. He looked down, then up into my eyes. "I do notice
you're alive, Josh. A little more than I care to admit."
"Really?" He asked me.
I nodded. "I have always known just how special you are to me. But being I loved Bradley,
I couldn't do anything about it." I admitted softly. There was a brisk, cool breeze in the air, and
I shivered.
As if responding, Josh took off his jacket and wrapped it around my shoulders. "Thanks, but
you didn't have to."
He put a finger to my lips. "Shh. It's okay. I wanted to."
We were silent, and looked into each others eyes. Our faces drew closer and closer together.
Before either of us could stop ourselves, our lips met in a soothing, romantic kiss.
My mind was telling me this was wrong, but I just couldn't help it. My heart rules over my
mind. What was I to do?
When we parted, I sighed. "Oh boy."

Scene From:
Bomb Squad Super Mysteries:
#13: Halloween Spooked!

Kelly:
I tiptoed downstairs, holding a candle in my hand. I could swear I heard something for sure
that time.
Oooooohhhhh....
There it was again. It sounded more like a ghost.
Ghost!
Be reasonable here, Kel. I chided myself. There are no such things as ghosts.
Not here, anyway. The Dream Realm, maybe, but definitely not here.
I crept quietly to the door, where the noises were coming from.
Looking out the window, I could see what made my hairs stand on edge, not to mention
make me feel foolish, just thinking of it.
It was the wind howling through the trees.
Heeellllp meee....
I jumped. That was definitely not the wind.
I shivered, suddenly feeling something wrong in the room.
“Hello?” I whispered quietly into the air, making sure not to wake everybody up. “Who’s
there?”
Heeelllp meee...
There it goes again.
My heart was thumping in my ears. I could hear the wind outside, but could feel the breeze
coming through the room. It blew the candle out, and I jumped again.
This was ridiculous. Being the Dream Realm’s Enchantress, I’ve seen scarier things. I’ve
been in spookier situations than this. I’ve got to get a hold of myself, before whoever it is,
calling for my help, plans to kill me alive.
I still had the candle in my hands, so I used my Magic to light it.
 I only hoped no one was awake to see that.
Oooaaahhhhh.....
It wasn’t just ridiculous, it was downright annoying.
Time for action.
“Alright, whoever you are,” I whispered aloud. “Show yourself, before I have to use Mystic
Magic to bring you out.”
In front of me came a clear, transparent image of an old man.
Immediately, I knew who this was.
“Jeremiah Catz?” I whispered.
The image nodded. “Yes, you know of me?”
“Yeah, I do.” I told him. “My name is –.”
“Kelina Erin, the Enchantress of the Dream Realm.” Jeremiah smiled, knowing.
“How did you know?” I smiled, now forming a ball of light in my hand with the Magic.
He bowed to me. “My Lord Maximaniac has told me many things about you, and how you
helped him win the Dominionite Crystal back.”
This could only mean one thing.
“You’re a Grey Arean?” I asked him. He nodded sadly.
“Now you see why I need help.”
“Not exactly.” I said. “Tell me.”
“Keep the legend alive, or I will die in my own home.” Jeremiah told me.
I heard a noise behind me and turned around to look.
The Magic energy ball disappeared as I closed my hand, just in case.
“Who’s there?” I asked. I turned back to Jeremiah, but he had already vanished.
I started to go toward where I heard the noise when I saw a flashlight’s beam.
“Kelly?” I heard KC’s voice peep. “Is that you?”
Great. There was no telling how much of the conversation she’d heard.
“Yeah, KC. Its me.” I flicked on a light before meeting my friend in the hallway. “What are
you doing up so late?”
“I heard your voice, and another, so I came down to investigate.” KC replied. “Are you
okay?”
“Sure, sure, KC. I’m fine.” I assured her. “Why?”
“I heard Amanda Jo calling your name in her sleep.” She told me. “She claimed you were in
trouble.”
Usually, if Amanda Jo does that, whatever she saw or heard would come true.
We started to walk up the stairs together.
“What was that strange rainbow-colored light?” KC asked me.
“It was nothing. Probably your imagination playing tricks on you.” I tried to convince her.
KC certainly wasn’t one to know my secret, no matter how good of a friend she was. “Let’s get
back to bed. I’m tired.”
Yeah, tired of fooling around in the dark with spectators. Tired of Halloween spooking me
out. Tired of having things happen around my friends I’m unable to scientifically explain.
As long as we were in the Catz Mansion, I would be spooked and afraid for my life. It’s
legend told many things, but not one story made sense with another. The only way to get the
answers was to Crusade to the Grey Area of the Dream Realm, and ask the Catz twins
themselves.
I hated being me sometimes.
 Instead of heading straight to bed, I went to Michael’s room on the third floor.
“Michael, are you awake?” I whispered, knocking on the door quietly.
I saw him sleeping soundly in his bed.
“At least he’s in the Dream Realm.” I chided sarcastically.
“No, I’m not.” Michael spoke up, startling me.
I playfully slapped him. “Michael Catz, don’t do that to me.”
He sat up in bed, and I sat down beside him. The moonlight was just bright enough where I
could see the proud smile on his face.
“You have to admit – I got you good.”
I smiled back. “That’s the least of my worries.”
“What’s up?” Michael asked.
“Your great-great-grandfather is back.” I told him. “This time, KC overheard my
conversation with him, and saw my Mystic ball of light.”
“Uh oh.” He said.
“All you can say is ‘uh oh’?” I whispered.
“What did Jeremiah have to say to you?”
“Not much. Just a few things I’ll keep in mind.” I replied. “First, he’s a Grey Arean, with
Jesemiah and Lord Maximaniac. Second, he needs my help. The last thing he said to me before
disappearing was to keep the legend alive, or he’ll die in his own home.”
Michael closed his eyes and grasped the pentacle around his neck. “Good thing you came to
me.”
“Well, duh, you are a Catz. I figured you’d know how to handle it.”
Michael opened his eyes and smiled, giving me a kiss on the cheek. “Of course, my fellow
Magician. Question is, how do we get there to talk to him?”
“Where?”
“The Grey Area.” He said, taking my hand.
“Easy, we use the Dream Chant.” I shrugged. “You do remember it, don’t you?”
“Right again, Kelly.” Michael teased. “I do believe Rhiannon, Arianrhod, and Audrey
should be a part of this, don’t you?”
I shook my head, laughing softly. “In that case, why not Amanda Jo and Stacy?”
“The more to the coven, the better.” Michael pulled the covers from his legs. “When do we
start?”
We heard the rattle of chains then.
I figured old Jeremiah Catz was back, trying to scare my friends.
“Please, Jeremiah. Stop it.” I asked into the air.
His image came to us, shaking his head.
“Twas not I, children.” Jeremiah insisted. “I have no binds to hold me down. I am a Grey
Arean, seeing what was wrong when I was Earthbound. Lord Maximaniac is helping me learn to
be good again.”
I nodded. “He’s right. Grey Areans can’t do tricks like that. Only those from the Beyond
and Old Dominion can.”
The moaning started again, as did the rattling chains. I jumped into Michael’s arms, scared.
Jeremiah disappeared again, this time in a flash of grey-colored smoke.
Looking into Michael’s eyes, with him looking into mine, we screamed.

Scene From:
Bomb Squad Summer Camp Mysteries:
#2 Hail, Hail, Camp Potawatomi

"These campers are driving me crazy!" I exclaimed to Bradley when the two of us had some
time off.
Bradley just laughed. "Could've fooled me!" He exclaims, putting his arms around my waist.
"I could have, but didn't, huh?" I asked, joking.
He replied by giving me a sweet kiss.
We heard a whistle coming from the bushes.
"I thought I heard someone out here!" I exclaimed. "Whoever you are, come out. Or be
reported to Becky -- I mean, Miss Belfridge in the morning."
That did the trick. Whoever it was showed themselves.
Abby, Jo, Ginger, and Rhea; four of the mischievous campers I had to bunk with; come out,
giggling and making kissy-kissy noises.
"What in the world are you guys doing here?" I asked them.
Ginger grinned like a Cheshire cat. "We wanted to know where LITers go when it's pass
curfew."
"You shouldn't be out here. Especially this late." I told them seriously, trying not to laugh.
"But you are." Abby complained, crossing her arms and nodding toward us.
"That's different." Bradley replied. "We're older, wiser, and more mature than you are."
"Doesn't mean a thing." Jo interjected, hands on hips.
I sighed. “I think we’ve just been duped.” I replied, sneaking a look at Bradley. I turned to
the girls. “Girls, did you want to know my secret?”
Eagerly, they nodded.
“We had a clue of what your secret was, but I never really looked into it.” Rhea replied.
The five of us sat down. Bradley smiled, knowing exactly what I was going to do.
I grasped my necklace, closed my eyes and thought. Sorry, Momma. “Alright, Girls.” I said
as I opened my eyes. “Are you ready?”
Again, they nodded.
“Close your eyes, and hold each other’s hands.” I instructed. This was going to be a snap! I
thought with a grin. “Now, start from ten, and silently count back to one.”
The girls were silenced, so I began to chant softly. “Through the winds and rains, stars
above, send these girls to the land I love. The Dream Realm where children laugh and play, let
them be frightened by the Wolf. Be his prey!”
My necklace grew warm, as did the ring on my finger. I knew it was wrong, but I had to
teach these girls a lesson in respect. Wolf was harmless, really. He was more playful than
hurting, and wouldn’t dare hurt any friend of mine. He and Kat come to visit whenever they can,
and are always bringing some story with them.
Any second now...
“Aaaahhhhh!” The girls screamed. They opened their eyes and made their way back to the
campsite.
Bradley smiled and clapped. “Very good, Kelly. Very original.” He took my hand and
pulled me closer to him. “Now, where were we?” He asked, kissing me.

Scene From: Case Entry:

#45 Kelly for President!

"I really appreciate the help, you guys." I told my best friends.
"No problem." Adam said, smiling.
"What are best friends for anyway?" Cara asked brightly.
"If you plan on winning out to Cara Daniels," Steve began as he carried in the box of fliers
we made last night. "You'll need plenty of it!"
I stopped what I was doing, stood, and stared at my best friend. "Why do you say that,
Steve?"
"Yeah, Steve." Cara interjected, glancing from me to Steve. "What have you heard?"
"I'll tell you later," Steve whispered, moving closer to me. "Here comes her majesty now. Act
natural, you guys."
"Relax, Steve." I patted my best friend on the back playfully. "I think I know how to handle
Cara Daniels and The Unicorns."
He shrugged.
A moment later, while we worked on the posters and fliers, we heard a familiar annoying
voice. Cara Daniels and her band of snobettes who call themselves The Unicorns. "Well, well. If
it isn't the Bomb Squad and their fateful leader, Kelly Reading! Fancy meeting you here, Kelly."
"What do you want Cara?" I sighed, rolling my eyes.
"Oh, nothing really." Cara Daniels replied breezily. "I take it you're running for junior-class
president?"
"Take it as serious as it is, Daniels!" My best friend replied nastily to The Unicorns'
president. "Because with Kelly in the election, you don't have a chance!"
"We'll see about that, Stupid-Sleuths!" Cara said furiously, stomping out of the newsroom.
Her band of snobbettes obviously followed close behind their own leader.
I looked at my best friend when Cara left and thought, What are you up to, Richardson?
She glanced at me with a mischievous grin, nodding lightly as she thought, I've got a little
plan of my own. I can't tell you now, though.
The eight of us continued to prepare things for the debates until we heard a knock on the
door.
"Come in, it's open." I exclaimed.
It was Mr. Burroughs, the newspaper advisor and one of the younger, more handsome and
more lovable English teachers. "I thought you might need some help, Kelly." He said with a
smile.
"Thanks for the offer, Mr. B, but we're doing just fine on our own." KC snapped. He wasn't
one of her favorite teachers, as I could tell by the tone of her voice.
"I'll only be a minute then, everybody." He told us.
I walked over to KC. "What was that all about?" I whispered.
"He gave me a D on my report card. I hate him."
"How can you hate him? He's one of the most lovable teachers in school!" I told her. "In fact,
he's my favorite."
KC glared at me with a tear forming in her eye. "I still hate him." she complained softly.
A moment later, Mr. Burrows left the newsroom.
"If you don't mind my asking, KC, what's wrong?" I asked her.
"Nothing." She snapped. KC turned back to the box in front of her, fiddling with some of
supplies. "Why don't we count how many things we have? To . . . uh...see if we...uh...have
enough to go around."
"Solid." I replied, still disturbed about what was bothering her. "Let's see..."
I returned to my station, which was the making of the fliers.
Krysti came up to me and sighed dramatically, slamming down the extra paper I had asked
her to bring me. She wiped her brow dramatically with the back of her arm. With her, as always,
was KC. "This is hard work!" She exclaimed. "How can you do this every single day at
meetings?"
I smiled at her. "I don't. Which is why I don't call meetings every single day. Besides," I
commented, nudging her playfully, "I have you to help me with my duties."
"Oh." Krysti replied. Then she smiled.
KC giggled lightly. I sensed that she wasn't feeling good about herself lately.
"I just remembered, Krysti," I began, breaking the long, tense silence. "I need more computer
time for writing my speech. Do you mind asking Mr. Lansing, if he's still here, if I could have
tomorrow and Wednesday?"
"Why can't you use your computer at home?" She asked me suspiciously.
"Because, Krysti. Ours is a totally different model than the school's." I told her. I sent her a
mental message: Play along gracefully. I need to talk to KC for a while.
"What are you talking about?" Krysti asked, confused.
"Never mind, I'll do it." KC volunteered suddenly.
Krysti and I shared a worried glance.
"You will? Thanks KC!" Krysti cried.
With that, KC stormed out of the room.
Anything to get out of doing work, I thought to myself. That's Krysti for me! I sighed,
returning to my work. Running for class president was going to be harder than I thought. With
competition like Cara Daniels, David Stevens, and Adam Martin Saint-James, I should resign
before it starts getting tough. Really tough.
As soon as KC was out of sight, I glanced at my friend. "Krysti, what's with KC lately?"
“I don’t know.” Krysti shrugged, not looking at me. “Why?"
"Haven't you noticed how strange she's acting these days?"
"If you're talking about KC, I have." Lesal replied, bringing some posters over to me and
sitting down.
"She hasn't been acting like the KC we all know and love, that's for sure." Miranda sighed
sadly, sitting down on the table next to her best friend.
"When I asked her ten minutes ago what was wrong, she acted really interested in getting
things organized." I explained, looking at my friends briefly before going on. "That in itself tells
me that something's not right here."
"I agree." Adam said, speaking up timidly. "I've tried to find out what's up with the gossip,
but she wouldn't budge on the subject. Really strange, even for KC."
I turned to her best friend, who was staring into space. "What about you, Krysti? Has KC told
you anything as to why she's so bummed?"
"Huh? No, she hasn't." Krysti stammered, shaking her head. "Except for her English grade --
nothing."
"I have her in English, with Mr. Burroughs." Steve replied, his face lighting up. "The last
time I heard her read something out loud, she sounded really mixed-up."
"Really?" I asked my best friend. "Tell me more."
"There's not much to tell, Kelly." Somebody exclaimed, on the verge of tears. The group
turned around only to see KC, her eyes and face filled with tears. "I'm a worthless dummy!"
She fled the newsroom.
"Wait, KC!" Krysti and I both exclaimed to her.
"Leave her be, guys." Adam said, grabbing both of our shoulders to hold us back. "I think she
wants to be alone for a while."
I nodded. "Because of this, I call an emergency meeting of the Bomb Squad as soon as we
leave. I'll go tell Bradley and Josh; Adam," I told them, "you tell Peter."
"Gotcha." Adam agreed, leaving to find his best friend.
"What about us?" Steve replied.
"Steve; You, Lesal, Miranda, Krysti, and Cara go and try to find KC. Meet the others and me
at my house, in the living room, to 'work on the campaign' so-to-speak." I explained, gathering
up my book-bag. "Okay?"
We put our hands in the middle to confirm the plan.
"Go-o-o-o Bomb Squad!" We cried in one voice.
"Let's do it!" I cried.
The seven of us rushed out of the newsroom, quick as we could, putting our plan into action.
With this new plan of mine, plus getting prepared for the upcoming election, I had my
schedule pretty much filled up. I couldn't wait until this mystery and the election was over. I was
beginning to tire out, and fast.

Another Scene:
The votes were in. Mr. Anderson called an assembly for the next morning. He was going to
announce the two contenders for the Junior President’s Position.
The five of us stood aside while people shuffled into the auditorium. Adam Martin Saint-
James, I noticed, was biting his nails. Cara Daniels was looking smug, with a self-satisfied grin
on her face. David Stevens, as shy as he was, secretively looked calm. Tara Vixon, her black
hair tied in a ballerina-bun, fiddled with the few hairs that hung down at her face. We were all
nervous, I could tell.
“Good luck, Adam.” I called, getting his attention.
“Thanks Kelly. I’ll need it.” Adam Martin replied back, pushing his thick glasses back on
his nose.
I shook his hand, then went to the others. “Good luck David.”
“Thank you, Kelly.” David whispered, shaking my hand nervously.
I wished Cara good luck as well, but she just snuffed off my kindness. “Whatever,” was all
she said.
I turned to Tara, almost pure and perfect Tara Vixon. “Good luck today, Tara.” I replied
sweetly.
She shrugged. “Yeah, thanks.” Instead of taking my hand, she stretched out her arms above
her head. I knew she did that whenever she was nervous.
Bored and nervous myself, I surveyed the gym for my friends. Cara, KC (who was looking
better since our little talk), Bradley, Steve, Krysti, Josh, and the rest of the Bomb Squad were
allowed to sit together. I found them and waved. Bradley caught my eye, blowing me a kiss.
Steve gave me a thumbs-up sign. I wish I were as confidant as they were!
“Attention Hill View High!” I heard Mr. Anderson’s voice over the P.A. System. “The
votes are in for the two finalists for Junior-class President.”
Applause from the audience.
 My heart was beating, and I played with my Dream Locket and Sisterhood Rings, nerves
making my hands shake.
What if I didn’t make the finals? I thought to myself.
I could hear Cara Daniels’ words in my ear, a reminder of our debate. “You’ll never make it.
You just aren’t cut out for it.”
How those words hurt me at that moment. I didn’t know why. They just did.
“And the runners-up are Adam Martin Saint-James,” Mr. Anderson announced.
I looked to Adam, who grinned at me.
“And Kelly Reading.”
Wondrous applause echoed through the gym, and I felt as if I were on cloud nine.
I looked to Cara, Tara, and David. Tara looked relieved, David looked bummed, and Cara
Daniels was pissed. I walked over to Adam, shaking his hand once again.
“Congrats, Kelly.” He supplied.
“Thanks, Adam.” I said. “Congratulations.”
“Thank you, thank you.” He said, then was off to join his friends from the Debate team.
“See you tomorrow for our final words.”
“See you.” I called after him.
“You did it!” KC raced up to me.
“Not yet. I’m just a runner-up.” I told her.
Bradley wrapped an arm around my waist, kissing me quickly. “Of course not, but you made
that, so be proud.”
“I am, believe me.” I said, then thought of if I had made it. “If I do become president, I’m
gonna have to quit one of my many activities.”
“Whatevah ya do, don’t quit da papah.” Lesal replied. “We need ya.”
“I’m not gonna. I know that, Lesal.” I said. “I love the paper.”
“What about Drama Club?” Allie asked. “You’re my partner for the Our Town project.”
“I’m not gonna do that, either.” I told her. “What I am gonna do is sleep on it. Our final
speeches are tomorrow morning.”
So many things to do, so little time.
“For now, we need to get to class.” Bradley supplied.
Glad I was out of the conversation, I left with my friends, off to our classes for the day.

When tomorrow came, becoming today, I had made up my mind. I knew what I was going
to quit, but I knew not a lot of people would be happy with me.
I didn’t care. To be in it, if I became president, would be too stressful. It was bad enough I
was president of the Bomb Squad, sometimes running myself ragged.
That morning, Adam Martin Saint-James and I stood side-by-side, watching as the
auditorium filled once again. Index cards in hand, I played with them.
I looked around, this time at the middle of the auditorium instead of the nearly one-thousand
Hill View High students watching my every move. I saw a podium with a microphone. The
same as we’d used many times for many other assemblies.
I sighed. Darn that Rebecca. Why did she have to move away? She turned my world
upside-down and I was nervous as anything then because of her.
I saw two chairs beside the podium, on either side. Mr. Reynolds, a Biology teacher, showed
us to them, telling us to sit down and wait.
I looked to Adam Martin once again. “Good luck today, Adam.”
 “Yeah, you too, Kelly.” Adam was fidgeting with his glasses in his hands as he cleaned them
with his shirt.
Mr. Anderson took his place as the podium, and I watched, listening.
“May I have your attention please?” He asked into the microphone. “The time has come for
the final speeches of Kelly Reading and Adam Martin Saint-James. Please, may I have complete
silence while the two candidates prepare themselves. I also need your full attention, for it will be
up to you this morning to vote for Junior-Class President, based on these speeches.” He turned
to us. “Who would like to go first?”
My heart was pumping, but I did anyway. “I will.”
“Miss Kelly Reading.” Mr. Anderson clapped with the audience as I stood up at the podium.
I surveyed the gym full of Hill View High school students, taking a deep breath.
“Go Kelly!” I heard Bradley’s voice above the applause.
I know you can do it, cousin. Go for it. Amanda Jo’s voice echoed in my mind. I found her
in the crowd, giving me a giant smile and a thumbs-up sign.
This was going to be hard, but I had to do it. If Bradley and Amanda Jo had faith in me – not
to mention the rest of the Bomb Squad egging me on – I had to have faith.
Here goes.
I cleared my throat before saying. “Good morning, Hill View High.”
Wondrous applause, but I had to continue.
“Thank you for choosing me as a runner-up for Junior-class President. As you all may know,
I am Kelly Reading. I’ve been a Hill View Schools student since I was seven.” I smiled. “Try
saying that ten times fast!” I giggled, with the audience laughing with me. I continued. “I am a
co-editor in chief for the Gazette and a part of many teams and organizations for many years
now. I wouldn’t say I was the most popular girl in school, but I do have my moments – as most
of you do.
“The reason I wish to become Junior-Class President is to show you what I can do for the
school. If I become President, I plan on changing a lot of things. To make it more fun, every
month a new dance, with a new dance-committee. The theme and such would all depend on you
– the students. Upon approval of the faculty, every two weeks we’ll be taking suggestions for
the next month’s dance. Whichever had the most votes will win. That’s just an example of what
I can do for our school.
“I believe I have the power to change things in our school. They may be small changes, but
it will benefit the school in the long-run. Please, when you vote for Junior-Class President, go on
intuition. Not just because I told you to vote for me. Look inside yourselves and see the truth.
Thank you for listening.”
Boy was I relieved when I was finished.
“And now, Adam Martin Saint-James.” I announced, with him patting me on the back.
“Wasn’t that a great speech, everybody?” Adam asked the audience, who howled their
approval even louder. I blushed, sitting back in my chair. “I may not do as good of a job as you,
but I’ll be sure to rival it.”
Laughs from the audience.
I didn’t listen to any of his speech as I tapped my toes to the music in my head. I closed my
eyes, seeing Celine Stargazer smiling back at me. Her silver-blue eyes were twinkling, giving
me confidence.
Did Celine know something I didn’t?
Didn’t matter anyway. I’d talk to her later tonight when I went to sleep.
 I opened my eyes to see Adam sitting next to me once again, and Mr. Anderson at the
Podium. That’s when my ears perked up again.
“As soon as you’re finished voting, please go back to your classes.” He said. “The
announcement will be posted at lunchtime. Have a safe and thoughtful day.”
I stood up. “You two are excused.” Mr. Anderson replied.
“So, did you like my speech Kelly?” Adam whispered as we exited the gym.
What was I to say? I hadn’t heard a word of it. “I loved it, Adam. You were right, it did
rival mine.”
He beamed. “Thanks. See you at lunch.”
“See you.”
I went to my locker, and he went in the opposite direction.
“Hey Kelly!” I heard Bradley’s voice behind me. Turning, he kissed my lips. “Wonderful
dahling. Simply mahvelous!”
I giggled. “Thanks. Too bad you and Josh can’t vote.”
“I know who I’d vote for in a heartbeat.” Bradley took his hands and thumped them against
his chest. “Kel-ly. Kel-ly. Kel-ly.”
I laughed, shaking my head. “Thanks, goof-ball.”
“Do you have an acceptance speech ready?” Josh asked from behind Bradley.
“How do you figure I’m gonna win?” I asked him back, skeptic of myself.
“We know you all too well, dahling.” Bradley kissed me again. “You’ll win. Just watch.”
“Thanks for the confidence, guys. I appreciate it.” I told them, gathering my morning books.
“The only thing we can do now is wait for lunchtime.”
“I bet you’re really nervous, aren’t you?” Cara supplied, hugging and hanging on Josh.
“You got it.” I told her. “So, who’d you vote for?”
Cara gave me a look. “Who do you think?”
“Me?”
“Of course. You’re my best friend.” Cara said. “I bet you the Juniors of the Bomb Squad
voted for you.”
“I hope so.” I said. I sighed, thinking of the choice I had to make. “Cara, I hope you won’t
hate me for saying this.”
“If you’re gonna tell me to shut up, I’ll pop you in the nose.” Cara teased.
“No, it’s nothing like that.” I leaned up against my locker and Bradley.
“Whatever it is, I’m not gonna hate you.”
I looked at her. “If I do make it, I’m gonna quit cheering.”
Cara was wide-eyed and gawked. “What? You can’t! We’re a team!”
“I can’t handle everything at once. It’s making me too worn out.” I supplied.
“Super Kelly Syndrome.” I heard Steve come up to us, with Krysti holding his hand. I
looked at him. “I only caught the last of it.”
“Kelly’s gonna quit cheering if she wins.” Cara summed before I got the chance to say a
word.
“Don’t quit. You’re the best.” Krysti said, then looked to Cara. “One of the best, that is.”
Cara stuck her tongue out at her.
“I don’t even know if I’m gonna win, so don’t fret just yet.”
“You’ll win alright.” Steve touched his nose. “By mighty Mystic Magic.”
“Steve!” I cried, looking around. “If you’re still saying I’m using magic, then prove it.”
Steve shrugged. “I can’t.”
 “I’m sure she’s not.” Bradley assured him. He took his necklace in his hands. It was the
very one that linked us in destiny, but it wasn’t his Pendant. He didn’t have one, yet. “I’d feel it
right away, and I don’t feel a thing.”
“She may be blocking you,” Krysti whispered, up for a challenge.
“I assure you, I’m not using magic.” I whispered back, rolling my eyes. “Let’s just get to
class. I don’t want to be late.”
Josh held out his hand. “I’m rooting for you, Kelly.”
Cara put hers on top of his, with Krysti, Steve and Bradley joining in a circle. I smiled at my
friends – my Dream Realm Crusader friends. I placed my hand on the top and cried. “On three.”
“Go Crusaders!”
Our battle-cry made me feel more confident, for the moment.
I couldn’t wait until lunchtime. My stomach was fluttering just thinking about the
announcement. I nearly convinced myself Adam Martin was going to win.

When lunchtime came, I couldn’t sit still. The announcement wasn’t up, yet, and I was too
nervous to eat.
“Will you sit down, Kelly!” Krysti cried. “You’re making me nauseous.”
“Yeah, Kel.” Steve supplied after her. “Eat something. Take your mind of it for a few
minutes.”
“I can’t, Steve, and you know it.”
“You’ll feel a lot better once you eat.” Bradley said, sitting in his normal spot. “I’ll even
share with you.”
He pat the seat next to him – mine, and I sat. I took a carrot from his tray and dipped it in
ranch dressing before crunching on it. It was all I could do not to go crazy.
He hugged me. “There. Doesn’t that feel better?”
I smiled.
From the corner of my eye, I could see a boy posting something up on the board. It’s gotta
be it.
The results of the morning votes.
I stood, took a deep breath, and headed over to it. My fingers crossed, I wished in my mind
for good luck. My hands were shaking, my heart was pounding in my chest, and I was biting my
lip in order to not cry out my enthusiasm.
“I’m coming with you.” I heard Bradley’s voice from behind me.
I didn’t care. I needed him right now anyway. Whatever the results were, I’d be cool and
confident about it. He’d stick by me whatever it said.
I looked on the board and read the announcement carefully.
“Congratulations Kelly Reading!” It read.
I did it! I was the new Junior-class president!
“You did it!” Bradley picked me up and twirled me around. He kissed me.
“Congratulations!”
“Cool Kelly!” KC cried. “All your hard work paid off.”
“Thanks KC.” I said, hugging Bradley.
“You have to meet up with the other three officers after school.” Cara said. “I’ll tell the
coach your decision.”
She sounded bummed.
“You still have Carrie, Lesal, Miranda, and Amanda Jo, you know.” I told her. “You’re not
totally alone.”
“Yeah.” Amanda Jo echoed from beside me. Somehow, I hated her sneaking up like that.
“It’ll be as if Kelly were still there.”
“It’s not the same, Amanda Jo.” Cara said. “You’ve been in it forever with me, Kelly.
Since we started Junior-high.”
“I’ll still come and watch if you’d like. I just can’t handle it all right now.” I told her.
“Especially now that I’ve won.”
Cara beamed. “Does that mean the Bomb Squad’s mine?”
I laughed. “Yeah, right. Sorry, Cara. You’re still the Vice-President, so don’t get too
comfortable with the presidency.”
Cara smiled.
“Have you even met the other officers, yet?” Amanda Jo asked me.
I shook my head. “As far as I know, there are two boys and a girl. Trevor Prince is the
treasurer.”
“Makes me wish I were a junior again.” Bradley supplied. “Keep an eye on him, okay Kel?”
I nodded. “Leslie Picket is the secretary, Callie Bradshaw is the vice-president.”
“She can keep that title.” Cara supplied. “The Bomb Squad’s bad enough for me.”
“Cara!” I cried, laughing.
That’s when I saw Adam Martin from the corner of my eye. He looked really depressed.
“I’ll be back guys.” I told them. “I have to handle this myself.”
They nodded, heading back to the table once Bradley kissed my cheek.
“Hey Adam.” I called.
He turned. “Hey Kelly. Congrats.”
“Thanks.” I said. “I’m sorry you didn’t win. You worked as hard as I did on your
campaign.”
“Yeah. We were the only ones to really campaign.” Adam smiled a little.
“You know what?” I asked.
“What?”
“If it were up to me, we’d have two presidents. One boy, one girl.”
He laughed a little. “Yeah, two different sides to the presidency. How funny?”
I smiled. “If I happen to step down, who do you think is gonna take my place?”
He stared. “Me?”
I smiled. “You were second runner-up, and the school loves you.”
“They love you more, Kelly. That’s why you’re the president and not me.” He turned away,
running as fast as he could away from me.
How sad. Now I felt awful about winning.
After school wasn’t exactly easy, either.
I met up with the other officers in the Debate room.
“You must be Kelly.” The red-head replied, blowing a bubble out of her gum.
A boy with sandy blond hair came up to me. “Allow me to introduce myself.” He kissed my
hand. “I am Trevor Prince. I’m the treasurer of the Junior-class treasury.”
I pulled away, my thoughts of Bradley keeping me at a distance. “Nice to meet you, but I
already have a boyfriend. His name is Bradley Allen Schmidt. Have you heard of him?”
Why did I sound so nasty?
Trevor backed off, hands in surrender.
A black-haired boy in the corner was sitting on the windowsill. He looked at me. “Don’t
mind him. He’s always looking for trouble.” He jumped off the sill and came up to me, hand
outstretched. “I’m Leslie Picket. Harmless, but taken.”
I smiled. “You’re the secretary, aren’t you?”
He grinned. “I’m one of the best. Not that KC isn’t good at it, too.”
“How do you know KC?” I asked him.
“She’s the secretary of the Bomb Squad. How’s a guy not supposed to know her?”
I was about to ask how he knew the Bomb Squad so well when the girl rolled her eyes,
ticking her tongue.
“It’s hard not to know the Bomb Squad. You guys are everywhere!” She replied. “I’m
Callie Bradshaw, and was about to take over the Presidency when Rebecca left, but decided
against it.”
“You’re like Cara Richardson, aren’t you? Not exactly wanting to be the center of attention,
or in charge full-time.” I read her thoughts. “Am I right?”
Callie slumped in her chair. “Whatever.”
Was I the only one with a leader’s mind in this room? “Well, how are things?” I asked, in
hopes of bringing the conversation to legal matters.
“The treasury’s strong, if that’s what you’re asking.” Trevor said nastily.
“There’s no need for you to be so negative about it, Trevor.” I said. “We’re all on the same
team, you know.”
“Like Callie said,” Trevor replied. “Whatever.”
I could tell my reign as the Junior-class president was going to be a short one. My nerves
weren’t made of steel like my mother’s.

Scene From:
Case Entry #24: Kelly and the Case of Mistaken Identity

I searched the entire house for Amanda Jo, but couldn’t sense her.
“Amanda Jo!” I called. No answer.
That’s when I went downstairs to the basement.
There was a vision of emptiness here – as if something was preventing me from sensing my
cousin.
“Amanda Jo?” I asked into the air. The closer I got to her little hideaway, the more intense
the vision.
My head ached trying to sense her, so I turned off my Empathy.
That’s when I saw her legs, and I raced to her side. She was half-way in her hideaway, as if
she’d fallen when she opened the panel. Amanda Jo looked like she was sleeping, but my
instincts told me differently.
Something had gone terribly wrong.
I passed a hand over her face, trying to use Magic to see what happened.
Nothing.
Her reddish-brown hair was tousled around her shoulders and head. Her face – the same
which was identical to my own – was pale white.
I called up the stairs for anyone who’s listening, then sent my brothers and cousins telepathic
messages. A few minutes later, I heard pounding down the stairs.
As soon as Stacy saw her sister lying lifeless on the ground, she gasped, and started to cry.
“Oh no – not again!” Stacy exclaimed, her legs giving out on her.
 “What happened?” Caleb asked me.
“I found her down here, like this.” I told my cousin, wrapping a caring arm around Stacy’s
shoulders. “I don’t know what happened to her.” I turned to Stacy. “Do you?”
Stacy nodded, sniffing back tears. “She’s gone into an involuntary trance.”
It was hard for the nine-year-old to pronounce ‘involuntary,’ but I understood.
“Is there anyway to help her out of it?” I hugged her.
“Only Mommy was able to get her out of it.” This made her cry even louder.
“Shh.” I hugged her closer. “It’s okay, Stacy. Can you tell me how Melody got her out of
it?”
It took her a few moments to answer, calming her tears until she hiccupped.
She nodded. “Magic.”
“I tried that, but it was useless.” I told her.
At that, she grabbed my hand and reached out her other to Caleb. Meredith knew what Stacy
had in mind, so she took her brother’s hand. Andrew took her other hand, with him grasping
Mark-Antony’s. Mark-Antony nodded, then held his hand to me.
“You know what to do, Kelly.” He replied, winking.
It was the Mystic Circle. The Magic combined would be just the thing to awaken her from
her trance.
I only hoped it would work in time.
I grasped my brother’s hand, closing my eyes.

Mahl-hik Let Us See

Mystic Magic, Set Her Free

We chanted it under our breaths until we heard her gasp. I opened my eyes, severing the link
between us.
I turned to her. “Hey, are you okay?”
She slowly sat up, holding her head and grimacing. “Ugh. I hate it when that happens.”
“Me, too.” Stacy peeps up, hugging her.
“What did you see?” Andrew wanted to know.
“Stacy says you went into an involuntary trance.” Caleb repeated after his cousin.
Meredith and Mark-Antony nodded.
Amanda Jo stared into space, thinking. She took a deep breath and turned to me. “Zeta.”
Zeta?
“Who’s that?” I asked.
“She’s the Unknown demon placing the blame on us.” Amanda Jo said softly. “I was
fighting with her, but my Magic wasn’t strong enough to win. That’s when I blacked out in the
Unknown. The next thing I knew, I felt a warmth around me, and opened my eyes to see the
combined Circle Magic protecting me. It not only did that, but it helped me, and my Magic got
stronger.”
With help from Stacy and I, we helped her stand again.
“You’re alright now, aren’t you?” I asked her.
Amanda Jo smiled. “Thanks to you. I wouldn’t have been able to wake up without your
combined Magics helping me.”
“What are cousins for?” Caleb quipped, and he and Mark-Antony slapped a high-five.
“Not only cousins, we’re family.” Andrew was serious.
 “It’s not like we can get rid of you.” Meredith joked, giggling. Stacy saw the humor, as did
the rest of us, bursting out in giggles herself.
My family was something – I’ll tell you that.
We headed upstairs, with Caleb and Meredith heading home across the street. Andrew and
Mark-Antony went up to their room, with Stacy and Amanda Jo behind them, going to theirs.
I decided to find Momma and see just who this Zeta character really was.
I found her in the study, reading. “Momma? Can I talk to you?”
“Certainly dear.” She said with a grin, putting a mark in her book. She set it down on the
table beside her and took her reading glasses off, setting them on top of it. She pet the footrest.
“Come sit down next to your old mother.”
I giggled. My Momma was anything but old, and she knew it. We were only thirteen years
apart, with her being only twenty-nine.
I took a seat on the footrest and she gave me a hug.
“How’s my favorite girl?” She asks, making me smile. She gave me a hug and a peck on the
cheek.
I wanted to tell her, but the way she looked made me hesitate. Her reddish-blond hair was in
a long French Braid, trailing down her shoulders until the ends met near her waist. Her silver-
blue eyes sparkled with such happiness and pride. Her gentle features made her look as if she
were only fifteen herself.
My thoughts had made me oblivious to her.
“Honey, are you okay?” Momma’s voice sounded concerned, interrupting my thoughts.
Quickly, I told her what was going on: starting from the thefts at school to what just
happened with Amanda Jo. When I mentioned Zeta, her entire face went white.
“Momma? Who is this Zeta demon, haunting us?” I asked her softly.
“She wants to take your place.” Momma whispered. She shook out of her daze and looked
at me. “Kelina Erin, I want you to promise me something. It may be hard, but please try.”
The only time Momma or anyone calls me by my full name is when I’m going to be in
trouble. I nodded my head, agreeing. “Yes Momma. Anything.”
“Tell me everything about Zeta you know, the moment it happens.” She said. “I want to be
there to banish her out of the Dream Realm.”
“She’s impersonating us, Momma.” I told her. “Amanda Jo and I can prove it.”
“I know what she’s doing, and I don’t like it, one bit.” Momma supplied.
By surprise, she hugged me tight.
What kind of trouble were we getting ourselves into now?
More than I ever bargained for.

Scene From: Case Entry # 65

“Beauty and the Beast” – Kelly On Strike!

I was reluctant to dance with him.

I didn’t want to, but I was picked by Madam herself to play “Beauty.”
Yet, when I walked into the empty studio, there he stood. His broad shoulders and leotard
was far and beyond a sight for my eyes to behold.
I hesitated at the door, staring at him.
“What are you waiting for?” Richie asked me, smiling. “Christmas?”
“We’ll be in the Nutcracker by then, Richie.” I attempted the joke.
 He held his hand out to me. “Ready for the tough parts?”
I straightened my flowing tutu, nervous.
“Don’t say your nervous, Kelly Reading.” He teased me. “I’ve never known you to be
nervous. Least of all around me.”
I was nervous. So many what-ifs went through my mind.
Might as well get it over with, I prodded myself.
“Let’s start where Belle sees the love and beauty in the Beast’s warm eyes.” Richie said
softly, his arm still out to me.
I started to dance to him, but my heart wasn’t in it. He could tell.
I nearly tripped doing the jetes to his open arms.
He stopped. “Come on, get your head out of the clouds.” He scolded. “This is serious
work.”
“I know, Richie.” I said. “I’m sorry.”
“Again.” He said, making fun of the way Madam said it.
I smiled, starting another jete to him. After four more times, I think he noticed it.
“Hey, what’s up with you?” Richie asked, concerned.
I took a deep breath. “Nothing. I’m fine.”
He folded his arms. “Why aren’t I convinced?”
I sat on the nearest chair and sighed. He stood above me.
“Is it something I said? Something I did?”
I looked up at him. He looked so hurt.
“Whatever it is, your heart’s not in your dancing.” He sat next to me.
Oh Richie, if only I could tell you? I asked in my mind. If he wanted my heart in it, he’d
have to see the Magic. It was the only way.
I didn’t want him to know, especially after what happened to Carrie some time ago.
“I’m just so confused right now.” I told him. “My mind’s racing in a lot of different
directions, and I don’t know where I am half the time.”
“Right now, you’re with me Kelly.” Richie supplied. “We’re not enemies anymore. We’re
not exactly friends, but at least I’ve stopped bullying you and your friends around, haven’t I?”
I nodded. “I guess so.”
“Well, there you go.”
He stood up. “Wanna try again?”
His hand reached out to me. “This time, I’ll even put my heart into it.”
He grinned, and I took his hand. “Good.”
We started the scene again, and I actually closed my eyes to get my entire heart into the
dance. I felt the warmth of the Magic surrounding me like a blanket. It was comforting and I
was able to dance with confidence.
This time, I made no mistakes. I didn’t even trip over my own feet as I’d done so many
times before.
I twirled closer to him until our bodies touched. We were face to face, so I could see the lust
in his deep green eyes.
On impulse, we kissed.
Not just a stage kiss, as it was supposed to be for Beauty and the Beast.
A real earth-shattering kiss.
“Get your hands off her, Richie!” I heard Bradley’s voice cry out.
We parted only to see Bradley storming up to us, ready to fight if he had to.
 “Wait–Bradley, No!” I tried to stop him. “Please, don’t!”
Richie stood his ground, balling up his fists beside him. He didn’t do or say anything.
Bradley’s eyes were blazing, hurt. With my Empathy, I could tell he was angry.
He took my arm. “Come on Kelly.” He said, tugging me away from Richie. “Practice is
over.”
It hurt my arm to be tugged so hard. “Bradley, I can explain.” I tried.
“Save it,” He said gruffly. “Just change so we can go home.”
I changed in the locker room, almost wishing Richie knew my secret. If only he understood.
As I exited, hot tears found there way to my lids, and I felt one race down my cheek.
Bradley saw this and wrapped a caring arm around my shoulder, helping me to the Jeep.
We didn’t say anything until we arrived home.
“Kelly.” He said softly.
I looked up at him, my eyes saddened.
“Why did you kiss him?”
I didn’t know what to say, so I looked to the ground.
He ran a hand through his thick brown hair. He was frustrated; I could tell.
“So the rumors around school are true, aren’t they?” He accused softly.
My eyes widened. “Of course not. We’re only together during the performance, and that’s
it.”
Bradley shook his head. “Why can’t I believe you anymore, Kelly?” He asked, arms up in
surrender. “I give up trying to shelter you from pain. I don’t want to do this with you anymore.
You like him so much, he can have you!”
With that, he stormed off.
At first, I stood there looking after him. After what we’d been through when he moved back,
I was astonished.
Things were changing, and I don’t think I like where they’re going.
Tears flowing, I raced to get my bike from the garage. I pedaled as fast as I could and didn’t
know when I reached Cara’s house.
I pounded on the door until Craig answered. “Hey squirt – woah, what’s wrong?”
Cara came into the room. “Kelly!” She raced to my side. “What happened to you?”
I couldn’t speak, so I cried in her arms.
After I’d settled down, and we were upstairs in her room, I wiped the tears from my eyes and
whispered. “I’ve lost him.”
“Who? Bradley? Why?” Cara asked me, handing me a tissue.
I told her what just happened.
“Oh no, after all we’d been through, he’d want to give up. Just like that?” She snapped her
fingers.
I nodded. “I feel awful, but I was only playing a part. The kiss didn’t mean anything to me,
but it meant everything to Richie. Unfortunately, Bradley saw it and flipped! Now I’ve lost him
for good. I’ll never forgive myself for this.”
“It’s not your fault.” Cara said. “The play is going to test yours and Bradley’s love for each
other. He just doesn’t like it, that’s all.”
“I know, but what can I do? We’re supposed to have dinner with the family tonight.” I told
her. “I can’t go home now! Not like this!”
“Listen, I’ll talk to Craig. Maybe you can stay here tonight? I’m sure your Momma won’t
mind.” Cara supplied.
 I hugged her, lucky to have at least one friend in my life.
“Thanks Cara.” I said. “You’re the best.”

The next day, I tried my best to talk to Bradley, but he either ignored or avoided me. I didn’t
like this one bit. I had to talk to Richie about what he did.
We did.
Sigh.
At the end of the school day, I found Richie and Bradley at my locker.
Uh oh, I thought. This can’t be good.
They caught my eye. Richie bolted one way and Bradley tried to bolt the other.
I flicked my wrists and used magic to freeze him in his spot.
“What was that all about?” I asked.
“Unfreeze me. Now.” Bradley growled.
“Answer the question and maybe I will.”
“We talked.”
“Just talked?” I asked, touching him to unfreeze him. “What about?”
“You.”
“What was said?”
“I told him to leave you alone and he got defensive. Said it was your fault he kissed you.”
Bradley remarked. “Seemed to him something lured him into kissing you, in fact.”
“Are you accusing me of using my powers on him?”
“Take it as serious as it is.” Bradley replied. “Lately, the use of your powers has gotten far
out of control. Remember I can feel you doing it, so I should know.”
“I can assure you no magic was used during rehearsals.”
“How do I know you’re telling the truth?”
“Try the Truth Spell sometime.”
“Great. More magic.”
“Bradley Allen, I don’t believe what I’m hearing!” I cried. “You’re not listening to me.
You’re listening to Richie!”
“Why shouldn’t I listen to him?”
“Because he’s lying. He was just playing a part.” I supplied. “That’s why he was ‘lured’ to
kiss me. In his mind, I was Beauty and he was the Beast.”
“Are you sure you didn’t use magic? Even a little?”
“What did you feel last night?” I asked, grasping his pendant. “In this. What did you feel
from me?”
“Absolutely nothing.”
“Exactly.” I supplied. “I used no magic but my own motivation. My mind wasn’t working
right during the private rehearsal, and I was determined to get the moves right. That’s the only
kind of magic you could have sensed, if you only had an open mind. As it was, you didn’t, going
off the wall when you saw us kissing.”
“I don’t want to lose you to the likes of him.” Bradley admitted softly.
“You’re not going to.” I replied. “Can we kiss and make up now? I don’t like it when we’re
angry with each other.”
Bradley smiled for the first time in three days. “Me either.”
Wrapping his arms around me, we kissed. The sizzle between us was still there. Everything
was back to the way it should be.
 If only I could convince Richie as easily.

Scene From: Legend Of The Catz Amulet

At the museum, I was bored out of my skull.

Until something caught my eye. I walked away from the group to stare at an amulet that was
said to once belong to Jesemiah Catz herself. In fact, some say that the necklace was found on
Jesemiah's perfect skeleton when two girls found it under a quilt.
Oh well.
I stared at the amulet for quite a while. Something about it gave me the creeps, but still
captured my imagination, and interest.
"Will you come on?" I heard someone yell.
I took my eyes off the necklace for a few seconds to see who was yelling at me. Carter
Thomson.
"I'll be there in a few minutes, Carter!" I yelled back, turning back to the amulet.
Just then, a security guard came up to me and gave me a smile. "It has that certain beauty all
it's own, doesn't it?" He asked me.
I glanced at him. "Yeah. Do you know anything about it?"
"Except what the rumors are said to be, that's all." He replied, shrugging.
"There's a mystery behind it, and I personally decide to find out exactly what." I muttered
under my breath.
The guard laughed lightly, saying, "Good luck, Miss Detective."
He left, but I didn't notice until my group caught up with me.
We went back to the school for the rest of the day, but I couldn't concentrate on anything
besides the necklace.
For instance, I would open my Math book to see an image of the amulet, staring back at me.
After school, instead of going to cheerleading and softball practice, I went back to the
museum. Immediately, I wandered into the Catz exhibit room, and looked around. I couldn't find
the necklace anywhere! I walked over to the pedestal where I had seen the amulet, and saw an
empty case. I was beginning to think that I had come all the way on my bike for nothing.
"May I help you with something, miss?" I heard someone ask from behind me.
I turned to see a tall Asian man in a museum uniform.
Earlier that day, when our class was here, he had introduced himself as Mr. Yamamoto, the
museum owner.
"What happened to the necklace that was here earlier?" I asked.
"I thought you would know that." Mr. Yamamoto replied nastily. "You and your class were
here last."
"That may be true, sir, but we weren't the only ones." I explained, defending myself, along
with my class.
"Who else could've stolen it?" He asked me, folding his arms.
Before I could say anything, the security guard that I talked to earlier came in the room and
said, "I did, sir."
Mr. Y. stared at his employee.
"You stole the amulet, Dobson?" Mr. Y. asked. "What for?"
 "I don't know what came over me, sir. I just had that feeling. Under your supervision, sir, I
shall put it back myself."
"Agreed." Mr. Y replied, nodding. "Since I'm such a nice guy, and since you confronted me
with the truth before I found out otherwise, I'll only suspend you for one month. Without pay."
Mr. Dobson looked at the floor. "Acknowledged, sir."
With that, the two of them left. I stayed there until they came back.
"May I see the amulet before you put it back in it's case?" I asked.
"Why?" Mr. Yamamoto asked suspiciously.
I shrugged. "I just want to see the inscription. That's all." I said. I wanted to keep the
necklace until I could figure out the mystery behind it. I decided to make something up. "Besides
I have to do a report on it for school."
I hoped that would be convincing enough to have his approval.
Mr. Yamamoto thought for a minute, deciding whether or not to give me the necklace. He
stared long and hard at the necklace, which lay in his hands, and sighed. "Sure. Why not." He
agreed. "You can keep it for all I care. It's as ugly as sin, I say. I don't even know why, or how, I
ever thought this piece of junk was a little bit beautiful." He handed me the amulet. "Take it as
far away as you can from this museum."
"Thank you, sir!" I cried happily.
As quickly as I could, I rushed to Michael Catz's house. I bet him and his family would be
thrilled to have a piece of their own family history!

As soon I arrived at the Catz mansion, I rang the doorbell.

"Kelly Reading? Is it really you?" I heard somebody ask from behind me.
I turned to see Michael Catz himself, creepy as he may be. "Hi, Michael!" I greeted my
friend.
"I thought you'd never come back here again, not after I told you about the truth about
myself." Michael explained.
"Really?" I asked.
Michael nodded.
"Guess what?" I asked, holding on to the necklace behind my back.
"What?"
"I found something at the museum that I thought would make your day."
Michael stared at me. "What?" He asked again.
I pulled the amulet from behind my back and showed it to him. "This." I said smiling.
Michael stared at the amulet in horror. "No, Kelly. Take it back to where you got it. It is no
use to me." He said almost yelling.
"Why, Michael? I thought you'd love something from the Catz history." I said, staring at him.
"That," He said, pointing to the necklace, "Isn't anything from my family's history that I
would even wish to have in my possession."
"I don't understand."
"You certainly don't." Michael cried. He calmed down before going on.
Michael sighed. "I know that you and your friends have researched the history of my family,
but you don't know our secret."
"I thought your secret was that you were witches?" I asked, sticking the amulet in my pocket.
"Our other secret." Michael said. "I guess I can trust you, Kelly."
"Excuse me?" I asked, confused.
 "That necklace has a curse on it that goes back to the late sixteenth-century." He started to
explain. "From the year 1666 until the year 2106, it has, and will, give every Catz in my family a
bad name. More than just rumors will be spread like a wildfire, but the real stories won't even
seem to exist."
"Who put the curse on it? Is there any way that the spell can be reversed? If so, how could we
do it?" I asked in a rush. I was so excited. I couldn't believe that a curse was the mystery behind
the amulet.
"A mean witch by the name of Carlotta Bennington put the curse on the necklace because my
many-great-great-grandfather, William Catz wouldn't fall helplessly in love with her." Michael
explained, "I don't think there's any way the curse can be taken off, unless you can somehow go
into the past and stop her in time."
Before he could say anything else, I got an idea.
"I may have a way that I could go into the past and change the future in your honor." I
explained. "But I need your help, Michael. And Rhiannon's."
"Are you crazy, Kelly?" Michael cried. "Not even witches can go back in time. How are you
going to do it?"
"Three words: Dream Realm Crusading." I said matter-of-faculty.
"I thought you could only go into the Dream Realms doing that?" Michael asked, scratching
his head.
"I once traveled back in time to help Melody Jacobs with her self-esteem and Magic." I
explained, smiling. "If I could do that as a Time Bandit, I could go further in time to change the
Catz history for a certain friend of mine."
He was speechless.
"I'll explain everything in school tomorrow, Michael." I said. "For now, I've got to jam. See
you!"
I cried, running off toward the direction of the Bennington home, where I found Rhiannon
and her brother, Brock, in her room, playing a card game.
I peeked inside her room and cheerfully said, "Hi, Rhiannon!".
"Kelly?" Rhiannon asked, "What are you doing here?"
"I need to talk to you." I said simply. I sent her a telepathic message as well: I need your help
with a plan of mine. "Will you excuse us, Brock?" I asked her younger brother.
Brock shrugged and left the room.
"I don't know what you’re up to yet, Kelly, but I think I'm going to like it." Rhiannon said,
smiling. "By the way, why are you being so nice to me all of a sudden?"
"One reason: I know you'll want to be in on my plan Bennington." I explained. She,
Arianrhod King, and I were mortal enemies since we were little, until terror struck the
Bennington home. My club decided to help her out.
I only call her Bennington when my ideas or plans need the help of witchcraft.
"What are you scheming, Reading?" Rhiannon asked suspiciously.
I sat on her bed across from Bennington and proceeded to tell her my idea. Usually, she
would be the last one I'd turn to for help in a plan. This time, I needed her help really badly.
As soon as I finished, Rhiannon gave me a doubtful Look. She stood up from her spot on the
bed, and circled the room. "Are you sure it'll work?" She asked me.
"Sure" I replied, standing up. "Does that mean you'll help?"
Rhiannon sighed. "Sure. Why not?"
"Thanks, Rhiannon. I appreciate this." I told her.
 "May I ask you a simple question first?"
"Spike."
"If you're the Crusader, then how am I supposed to go with you?"
"I'll ask Momma and Daddy Derrick if you could borrow the Dream Locket. I'm sure they'll
approve."
Rhiannon sighed again. "I was afraid of that."
She looked at me, then at her watch. "When shall we start?"
I smiled at her.
"Now, if you want to, Rhiannon."
"OK." Rhiannon smiled.

Ten minutes later, Rhiannon and I arrived at my house. Momma was the only one home, and
the twins were at their friend’s house.
"Hi, Momma!" We cried after I barged in.
"Hi, yourselves, ladies." Momma replied, giving each of us a wide smile. She gave
Rhiannon a friendly smile, nodding, and yours truly a kiss on the cheek.
I got right to the point. "I was wondering if Rhiannon could borrow the Dream Locket."
Momma looked at me. "Where are you going?"
"I'm going to be a Time Bandit." I replied simply.
"Why?" She asked as she searched her bedroom closet for the locket.
I sat on the bed, Rhiannon sat beside me. "Because of the weird amulet I found." I explained
seriously as I watched her expression.
"You mean the Catz amulet? The one you saw on your field trip to the museum?"
I nodded, then explained my idea.

Scene From: The Bomb Squad Mysteries

Case Entry: #40 (The BSD's #2)
Kelly's Baby-Sitting Blues

Prologue

Down by the bay, where the watermelons grow. Back to my home, I dare not go. For if I do,
my mother would say...
..."Quack!" Said the Mother. "Quack! Quack!" Said the Son.
...And they swam and they swam, all over the dam!

Aarrggh! This was absolutely ridiculous. Ever since KC came up with the idea to have the
girls of the Bomb Squad to start a baby-sitting business, I have been driven crazy singing little
kids’ songs.
Don't get me wrong, I love baby-sitting in my spare time, between school and cases. But
when you start singing those songs in public, you start to think of what's wrong with you.
Am I getting through? Good.
Anyway, when KC announced that she had an idea, my heart sank. I'm usually the big-idea
person of the gang. I was the one that came up with an idea for the mystery club to begin with. I
felt insulted! Where was the mystery?
Then things started to happen to KC while she was on a sitting job with her favorite kid,
Rebecca Perfitt. Unknown to any of us, she had been hearing things in the little apartment she
was sitting in. When she didn't meet with the rest of the club for a while, we began to get
worried.
I had Krysti follow her best friend around for a few days. What we found out is that, during
her sitting jobs, she would have eight-year-old Becca and herself pretend to be detectives.
Well, by the end of Krysti's investigation, KC was convinced she was being followed. When
she saw Krysti the next day in class, and told her what happened, Krysti burst out laughing. KC
gave her best friend a pout, and Krysti began to explain what she had been up to. All-in-all, I'd
say that the case (and I admit, the baby-sitting idea) was a smash.
That was three weeks ago. The Bomb Squad hasn't had a mystery to solve since then. The
Baby-Sitting Detectives (that's what Cara, KC, Krysti, Lesal, Kymm, Carrie, Miranda, Liz, and I
call it) hasn't had any sitting jobs since then, either.
Until one fateful day, one week ago...

"I'm bored." Krysti complained while she and I sat in her room.
“Why did you invite me over then, Krys?” I asked with a smile.
“I thought you might like to play a game with me.” She replied. “But not even I’m enthused
enough to do it.”
I giggled. “Well, I’ll just go home then.” I teased standing up.
“No! I think I know what we can do.”
“I thought so.” I laughed. “Always the thinker, Krysti. That’s what I like about you.”
She smiled.

Scene From: Case Entry:

#56 Never Say Good-bye To True Love

I missed him. I missed his eyes, his hair, his -- let's just say I missed him.
Bradley Allen had been my steady boyfriend since he and I began the club some time ago. I
didn't know just how much he really meant to me until our love was tested to its limits with a
long move. I guess Hill View, Michigan and New York City are a long distance away from each
other.
Sorry for the rambling. I hadn't had my mind focused on anything else but, you guessed it,
my boyfriend, Bradley Allen. I just hope my rambling didn't bore you to death.
Then again, I'll just cut to the chase.
The mystery was simple. How was my relationship with Bradley going to survive such a long
distance? Were we to resort to a long-distance friendship? (I don't think so!)
Even that wasn't the real mystery for The Bomb Squad. That was my personal mystery.
You see, there were new kids in school, which wasn't suspicious -- at first. They, well, I'll
start where it all began, on that fateful Thursday before Spring Break.

Another scene:
 "Josh!" I exclaimed, sniffing. "What are you doing here?"
"I came to see how you were feeling." He said. "Now that, you know..."
I burst out in tears again. Just the thought of Bradley's name was enough to make me cry.
To my surprise, he took me in his arms and led me to my room. Josh sat me on the bed.
"Everything's going to be fine." He told me.
"I wish I could believe you, Josh, but I can't. Without Bradley, I feel like my whole world
has crumbled to the ground." I told him softly, crying into his sweater.
"I know how you feel. Really, I do." He said, pulling me closer. "I have to tell you
something, though."
I stared at him. "What is it?"
"I really don't like seeing you this way, Kelly. It’s not like you at all." He said.
"There's nothing I can do, Josh." I sobbed. "He's gone, and I'm all alone."
Our eyes met, and Josh said ever so sweetly, "You've got me."
We embraced in a long, romantic kiss.
I should have felt bad about it, but I didn't.
I should've felt at least some remorse for kissing my boyfriend's best friend.
I didn't.
In fact, it felt natural. It felt good to give in to the romantic feelings I have always felt about
Josh, but have been forced to hold back because of Bradley. Now, I really felt...
Confused.
I mean, who did I truly love? Bradley Allen or Josh Stevenson?
I didn't think I was ever going to find out. That is, not until Bradley came back to Hill View.
Forever.

Scene From
Super Mysteries: #9: Happy Holidays, Bomb Squad!

Kelly:

I watched as my best friends opened their gifts. My eyes fell upon Bradley, who was
fiddling with the bow on one of his gifts, staring at it sadly.
What’s wrong, Brad? I asked him in my head, sending him a telepathic message.
He looked at me, then stood up. He headed toward the patio door and walked out. I stood
and followed. Fortunately, none of our friends had seen either of us go. They were having too
much fun at the party.
“What’s wrong?” I asked again. Nothing. “Please, don’t ignore me, Bradley. I want to
know what’s going on.”
He turned and stared at me viciously. “Everybody here has parents, or family, but what
about me? I’m the adopted one, remember? Who I thought was my dad, wasn’t. Instead, he’s
yours, and who do I have to call my own family? Yours! It’s all you, Kelly!”
“Bradley Allen!” I cried, afraid someone might hear him. “Dare you say such a thing? You
know my father loves you as his own, and so does aunt Aimee. You’re cared for, not to mention
loved by yours truly!”
He didn’t say anything at first. Instead, he quietly sat on a patio chair and covered his face
with his hands.
Softly, Bradley Allen started to cry.
 I didn’t know what to do. I sat beside him and comforted him while he let his tears flow.
“Its okay, Brad. I love you, we all do. We’re family. Why wouldn’t we love a handsome
guy like you? You have the best friends by your side. We all love you.” I hoped that would at
least calm him down.
“Why me, Kelly?” He asked. “Why did I have to be adopted? Why couldn’t I have a
normal family, like you or Steve, or any one of our friends?”
I shrugged. “I don’t know, Brad. I didn’t ask to be born, or have you as my brother.”
He stared at me. “I’m not your brother, though. I’m your boyfriend.” He stared into space.
“I always wonder where my birth parents are.” He turned to me. “Can you help me find them?”
I opened my mouth, but closed it. I shook my head instead.
“I mean, use your powers. Are you able to do that?”
I shrugged. “I’ve never tried it before.”
He stared at me, a pleading look in his chocolate brown eyes. “Please, Kelly. Will you try it
with me now? I won’t ask you to do it again.”
I looked at him. Then he said something and I couldn’t resist.
“I just want to know where I come from.”
I smiled. “All right, Bradley Allen.” I glanced at the party. “We have to go upstairs in my
room. We can’t let anyone see it.”
He nodded and took my hand. We headed to the room I was staying in, and closed the door
behind us.
I sat on my bed and he sat next to me. “We can’t let Momma know I’m doing this for you.”
Bradley kissed me. “Thank you, Kelly. I really appreciate this.”
“Thank me later,” I told him, turning to him. He faced me. “I haven’t done anything yet.
Give me your hands.” He did. I closed my eyes, and told Bradley to do the same. “Concentrate
on your best attributes. Tell me what you see in your mind.”
“Nothing.”
“Really? Now think of your features, meaning your looks. What do you see now?”
“Nothing,” Bradley repeated, and stopped.
“Bradley, why did you stop?” I opened my eyes.
“Now that I think about it, I have my family right here in Hill View.”
I smiled shyly. “What made you change your mind?”
“I don’t know.” He told me. “Maybe I wanted to keep who my parents were a mystery. I
don’t want to be disappointed in the end. Even if I found them, and they turned out to be the
perfect couple, I would miss the only family I’d really come to care about.” He kissed me again,
this time passionately. “I don’t ever want to hurt myself that way. I love you too much.”
“I love you, too, Bradley Allen.” I told him. “Did you want to get back to the party?”
He smiled. “Sure. I could use some humor right about now.”
We headed downstairs hand in hand.
Adam and Miranda caught our gaze and smiled. Adam raised his glass to Bradley, and he
kissed Miranda under the mistletoe. “Here’s to many more fabulous holidays, filled with fun,
family, and adventure.” Adam toasted.
“Here, here!” The house shook with the words.
I looked around to my friends and our families. Miranda was snuggled in between her father
and boyfriend Adam. Beside Adam were his cousins, Steve and Liz as well as his best friend
Peter and his dad. Lesal was hugging her younger brother Davis and grinning. Her parents were
talking with Steve’s parents. Cara was in the corner with her brother Craig and sister Andrea,
who was beside my uncle Kevin. Kymm and Carrie were talking with Miss Parker, their mother,
who was actually laughing -- with mine! Krysti and her mom were talking with Cassie and her
mom, probably swapping recipes. Allie was with her “aunt” Abby, who was really Allie’s fun
great-aunt. They were practicing their sign language with another of our friends Jasmine
Jamison and her perfect-speaking deaf boyfriend Brian Templon. My mom’s cousin Amanda Jo
Applebee was with them, thankfully having fun.
There were all of my friends, so many, I couldn’t count! I couldn’t believe Momma had
invited them all to the Parker mansion, where she and my late uncle Mark Grey met.
I turned when Momma suggested we sing Christmas Carols.
“Tis the season to be jolly,” My friends sang, and we joined in.
I knew where my family was, and it was Bradley’s as well. He was the only one of our
friends that knew about my special abilities. It was a family secret, and it was kept that way.

Later, it was Bradley who caught me under the famed holiday plant. Our friends cheered as
he kissed me.
“Merry Christmas, Kelly.” He held me and kissed my nose gently. “I love you.”
“Merry Christmas, Bradley.” I said with a grin as the holiday tunes blared over the speakers,
and we began to sing “Noel.”
I felt this was going to be the best Winter vacation ever!

Scene From:
The Bomb Squad Mysteries: Extra! Extra!
#2 The McCoy Murder

On my daily bike ride, I happened to pass the MacCoy manor. My curiosity was
immediately summoned, and my keen sense of danger was sure to follow.
I wonder what secrets that old manor held? I asked myself. Slowly, yet cautiously, I creep
to the door and knock. It creaked open mysteriously, and I gasped.
“Hello?” I called into the air. “Is anyone there?”
Silence. So I walked in silently, slowly. I was ever cautious, because my extra powers told
me to be very wary.
The afternoon wind spookily closed the door behind me, with a loud Bam! I gasped again,
scared for my life. Then I second thought with a soft giggle, Get a grip, Reading. You’ve been
in creepier situations than this. Get a hold of yourself. You are not a wimp.
While I was silently scolding myself, I began to wander around the manor, as if some force
was driving me.
I stopped myself in the parlor, where I saw a bloody body lying face-up on the floor.
It was Mr. McCoy himself! I wonder what happened to him?
Being careful not to touch anything, I took my notebook out and started a checklist.
I noticed quite a few things about the body. One: Only his head was bloody. Two: His
hands held something, clenching it tight. There was more, but I didn’t really notice until I bent
down to look at the paper in his other hand.
One touch of it sent my clairvoyance bonkers, and I began to sense something terrible.
“No!” I screamed over and over. “Not now! Please, not now!”
I tried to stop the visions of hell from coming, but it was impossible. I didn’t snap out of it
until I felt a hand on my shoulder. I jumped and turned around.
 “What are you doing, Miss Reading?” Asked the officer. I recognized her as Randy Evens’
aunt, Gillian.
I stood, and told her what I found, leaving out the visions. I showed her the notebook.
“I’m not interested in your notes, Miss Reading. I’m just interested in getting you out of here
and home.” The officer replied. “You shouldn’t be here, especially this late.”
I checked my watch. Sure enough, it was already 9 o’clock. “Sorry, Officer Evens. I’ll
leave right now.”
“I’ll follow you.” She said. “Just to ensure your safety.”
I nodded. Whatever, I thought. I hopped on my bike and headed a few blocks to my house.
When I locked my bike to the back of the house, I waved the officer on her own way, and ran in
the house.
I saw my Daddy Derrick by the window and deduced he’d been watching the scene. “Why
did you have a police escort, Kelina Reading?”
He wasn’t very happy, so I took the house keys from around my neck and placed them on the
key rack. “Sorry, Daddy.” I said as he and I sat down on the couch. “Where’s Momma?”
“She’s tucking the boys in bed for the night.” Derrick told me. “Now. Did you want to tell
me why you’re out on your bike this late?”
I looked deep into his eyes and said seriously. “I witnessed a murder.”
“Excuse me?” I heard Momma come in the room. “Did I just hear you correctly, Kelly?”
I nodded and told them what happened at the McCoy Mansion, not leaving out the visions.
“I was caught, though, which is why I had a police escort.”
Momma and Daddy Derrick looked at each other.
“What else did you see?” Momma asked.
“Leave out nothing. I’m giving you permission to use your powers if you have to.” Daddy
Derrick said.
I reached for my notebook and explained everything in more detail.

Cara Mae Richardson

Age: 16 Position: Vice President

Scene From Case Entry #2: Cara vs the Mystery Machines.

(Old scene, needed for what’s in bold.)
Chapter Seven
A Bizarre Confrontation

I rode my bike home, heading to my bedroom upstairs. After watching my older sister
disappear down the staircase, I go to pick up the extension in her bedroom. Placing my hand on
the receiver, I stopped.
I wanted to take KC away from all this mess with school and her father, but I didn't know
where. Then it came to me. Where do KC, Krysti, and I usually hang out on the weekends, and
spend about half of our time?
The Hill View Mall! It was the perfect solution to the problem!
But there was one teeny, tiny flaw: Who was going to take us there?
I jumped up and headed to my older brother's room. I knocked when I heard a break in the
loud music. "Come in! Its open!" I heard Craig's reply.
 I turned the knob and pushed the door open, peeking my head inside. "Hey, Craig? Could I
ask a small favor from my favorite older brother?"
"Cara, I'm your only older brother." He pointed out with a smirk, giving me a strange look.
"What am I in for now?" He asked sarcastically.
I cleared a space on his bed and sat down. "Don't get cocky, Craig. I just want to ask a
question."
Since he'd been lifting weights, he wiped the sweat off his forehead with a ragged grey towel.
"So what do you want?"
"Could you please give KC, Krysti and myself a ride to the mall?" I begged in a rush,
looking hopeful.
He thought for a minute and threw the towel on the bench. He sighed. "Get your coat and
meet me at the truck." He demanded reluctantly, shooing me out of the room.
I jumped up excitedly and despite Craig's sweatiness, I gave him a big hug and peck on the
cheek. "Thank you, thank you, Craig!" I cried happily. "You'll never regret this!"
"I already do, Cara." He groaned. "Now, hurry up before I change my mind."
I raced out of there as quick as a rabbit, called Krysti and KC, invited KC to the 'time of her
life,' grabbed my jacket, and we were on our way.
Krysti wasn’t home, so it was just KC and I.
Craig dropped us off in front, and left after I told him when to be back to pick us up. From
there, the three of us toured all our favorite stores in the mall. Boom Box, Dancer's, Dream
Chasers, Art Attacks. The works.
After that, we walked three blocks to The Clubhouse. As we sat down at our favorite booth
with our chocolate milkshakes,

Scene From: Case Entry:

#14 The Mysterious Caller

Ring Ring, Ring Ring.

This was getting ridiculous, and scary. For the past few days, I have been getting strange
calls. I never hear the caller's voice, just a click. I'd never admit it, but I was scared for my life.
Right now, I answered the phone cautiously. "H-h-hello?"
"Cara? It's Kelly." Came Kelly's worried voice from the other end. "Are you okay?"
I let out the breath I had been holding. "Yeah, Kel. I'm fine."
"That's good. Listen," my best friend continued, only this time, not as worried. "Are you
available to come over for an emergency meeting?"
Should I? I thought objectively. Why not? "Sure." I told her. "When?"
"Right now." Kelly said seriously. "It's urgent."
"I'll be there in a flash." I told her. "See you!"
I hung up the phone, and headed back to my room. I grabbed my coat, book-bag, and the
Crime Computer, and biked it to Kelly's house.
It was my turn to use the Computer for the case.
When I heard Krysti's voice telling me to come in, I opened the door and went inside. I
gasped.
The whole gang was there, including Josh, Peter, and Liz Edwards, Steve's busy-body twin
sister. I knew right then and there that something was ultimately wrong. Kelly would never in a
million years invite Liz to an emergency meeting of the Bomb Squad. Never. She wasn't a
member. Not even associate.
"What's wrong with you, Cara?" KC asked suspiciously. "You look as if you've seen a
ghost."
KC led me to the living room, where the gang was at. After quick hello's, I turned my
attention back to KC. "It might not have been a ghost, KC, but it sounded like one!"
KC looked puzzled. Kelly and Bradley glanced at each other, then at me with interest. Lesal
and Miranda stopped their giggling long enough to stare at me, puzzled. Adam and Peter rolled
their eyes at each other. The rest of my friends looked at me with questioning glances. I
explained about the mysterious phone calls I had been getting the past few days.
"Are you serious?" Miranda asked, frightened. She was on the verge of tears.
I nodded.
"That's why she called the meeting." Lesal replied when she saw the look of confusion on my
face.
"Huh?"
"That's right." Kelly said, "I forgot that you knew nothing about whom or why she called the
meeting."
"That's right." I echoed, smiling sarcastically. I turned to Miranda, who was sitting on the
floor next to Lesal, reading the club Suggestions Book. "Why?"
"Because somebody has been sending Miranda threatening notes." Adam explained in a
serious tone.
"I think the club just received it's next case." I declared, opening the Crime Computer and
loading up the information center. "Let's go over what we have to do first, before we actually
begin investigating."
Kelly nodded, telling me that she agreed, and to go on. She took out the club journal and
wrote something down. "We may have two different cases. So with the notebook, journal, and
Crime Computer, we shall, as always, keep track of them."
She then glanced around the room at the rest of us -- as she always does, flashing us her
proudest smile.

Later:

I’ll make Kelly proud of me, yet!

For now, to figure out who’d want to do this to us.
Ring Ring Ring...
I sighed. Here we go again.
I picked up the phone. “Richardsons, Cara speaking.”
There was a pause on the end of the line, then a female voice.
“Cara? Is Craig there?” It sounded familiar.
That’s when she told me her name.
“It’s Claudia. Kelly’s aunt?”
Claudia Woods....could she have been the one?
“He’s not here right now, Miss Woods. I want to ask you something, though.”
She hesitated before saying. “Shoot.”
“Have you been calling here lately, then hanging up as soon as I answered?”
Claudia laughed. “So this was Kelly’s big mystery!”
 “Not Kelly’s. Mine.” I told her. “Was it you, or not?”
“Yeah, Cara. It was me.” Claudia sounded more relaxed. “Craig and I have been going out
lately, but I still get kind of shy around him.”
“Typical girl.” I giggled, glad my mystery was solved. “I’ll tell Craig to call you later.”
“That’s what I called about.” Claudia interrupted before I said goodbye. “I’m not going to
be able to make it to dinner or the movies tonight. Something came up, and I have to work.”
“I’ll tell him.” I said. “Oh, Miss Woods?”
“Call me Claudia.”
“Craig really likes you.” I told her. “Maybe someday we’ll be sisters? With Kevin getting
married to Andrea soon, I’ll be gaining five sisters!”
Claudia laughed. “Thanks for the laugh.”
“There’s no need to be nervous around Craig. He’s cool, you know that.” I said. “I’ll relay
the message.”
“Goodbye Cara.”
“Bye, Claudia.”
I hung up the phone and smiled.
“What are you smiling about?”
None other than Craig himself asked the question.
I looked up at him and gave him a big hug.
He laughed. “What was that all about?”
“Oh, nothing.” I said innocently. “By the way, I just hung up with Miss – I mean, Claudia.”
His eyes widened. “And?”
“She’s not going to be able to make it tonight. She’s got to work.”
He looked sad. “You know, that’s the third time this week she’s ditched me.”
I pat him on the back. “Cheer up, big brother.” I told him. “She likes you. I can tell.”
“I know that, munchkin, but just how much?”
“More than you’ll ever know.” I said. “I’ve got a meeting to go to at Kelly’s. Can I have a
ride?”
Craig smiled. “Sure. I’ve gotta tell Derrick some things anyway.”
Within fifteen minutes, I made it to the meeting.
Craig found Derrick in the den with Mrs. Dratianos and the twins. I headed to the study with
a huge smile on my face.
Kelly was there, as was Krysti and KC. Bradley and Josh were there, but not everyone else
had shown up, yet.
Kelly shared a strange look with Krysti. “What are you smiling about?” Kelly asked me.
“I think I’ve found our mystery caller.”
KC gasped. “Who is it?”
“I believe it’s none other than Claudia Woods.”
“Why would aunt Claudia want to do that?” Kelly asked. Bradley shrugged beside her.
“She’s in love – with Craig.” I burst.
“That still doesn’t explain why Miranda is getting threats.” KC pointed out.
“So the mystery isn’t solved after all?” I sat on the floor, defeated.
I thought for sure!
“Maybe yours, but not Miranda’s threatening caller, or Lesal’s, or the twins, or Allie’s, or
even Steve and Liz’s.” KC said. “Trust me, Cara Richardson, this mystery isn’t half over, yet.”
I sighed.
 The time had come to rethink this entire case.
“Let’s Play ‘CASE.’” I suggested, grabbing the Crime Computer from Kelly’s hands.
“Right.” They echoed.
Here we go again!

Beginning of: Snapshots:

#1 Cara and the New Girl

Prologue:
Cara Mae Richardson
Speaks Out

You're probably wondering what's going on by now. I'll tell you. First, it was my idea (not
my nosy, big-mouth, best friend Kelly's) to write our favorite and most cherished memories
down for all to read.
It (the idea) began when the girls of The Bomb Squad MC's (Midnight Clubs): Cassie, Kelly,
Lesal, Miranda, KC, Amanda Jo, Kymm and Carrie, Allie, Samantha, Liz, Ericka, Sandra, The
Unicorns, Rhiannon, and myself, were having a slumber party at my house. As always, a Bomb
Squad slumber party is never dull. Especially when you have a pair of twin sisters that can cook
up trouble at the drop of a hat! When the boys heard about our slumber party game, they decided
to do it, too.
Since it was my idea to remember our most cherished and favorite memories, I'll be the first
to start.

Cara Richardson
#1: Cara and the New Girl

My favorite memory (the only one I could really remember) was of when Kelly Reading
moved in.
For some reason, I don't seem to remember how our friendship started, but I do remember
when my brother Craig introduced me and our sister Andrea to Kelly’s Step-Dad Derrick
Reading. This was way before they got married, but when they first came to town. Derrick said
he had grown up here, and Craig was his best friend in the Academy.
I heard a knock on the door and I decided to answer it.
I opened the door.
“Hi there. Is your brother around?” The man asked with a smile. With him was a woman
his own age and a little girl my age.
“Who are you?” I asked, suspicious.
The man looked up, and behind me. “Craig, old buddy, do you have a minute?”
I turned around, and sure enough, there was my older brother, grinning from ear to ear.
“Derrick Reading, old sap. How are you?” He turned to me. “Cara, let him in. He’s cool.”
I shrugged and they let themselves in. I shut the door behind me, then followed the four of
them to the living room.
I sat on the couch and the little girl sat next to me, smiling.
 “So, who are these lovely ladies?” My brother asked.
“Craig, I’d like you to meet my fiancee Adellandra Woods and her daughter, Kelina Erin.”
Derrick replied, looking at his wife-to-be.
“Hello.” Ms. Woods smiled at us. She looked at her daughter, then at my brother. “Do you
suppose the three of us could talk? Alone?”
“Sure,” Craig replied. He turned to me, but I already knew what he wanted.
“Come on, Kelina, I’ll show you my room.”
“Cool.”
She took my hand and we headed to my bedroom. I shut my bedroom door behind her and
said. “Well, how do you like it?”
“It’s pretty.” Kelina said. “Call me Kelly.”
I smiled. “Kelly, okay. I’m Cara.”
“I knew that.” Kelly smiled. “We just moved here from . . . California.”
“Where do you live?” I asked her, getting my dolls off the shelf. She seemed to be admiring
them.
“I live on Strawberry Court, in the same house my aunts and uncles used to live in.” She told
me. “I see you live across from a spooky mansion.”
“You like spooky mansions?” I asked her.
She nodded. “They’re not so bad. I’ve seen worse.” Kelly looked like she wanted to tell me
something, but she didn’t. Her attention drew back to the dolls. “Where did you get these dolls?
They’re beautiful!”
I held up one of them to her. “This one’s my favorite.”
She took it and looked at it. Then Kelly closed her eyes and said. “It was a gift from your
parents, because ‘Annie’ is your favorite movie.”
I gasped. “How did you know that?”
Kelly shrugged. “Just a guess.”

Scene From Super Mysteries:

#3: Mystery Mansion Weekend

I couldn’t believe it! I just witnessed my boyfriend kissing our enemy, Cara Daniels! Didn’t
he love me anymore? What was going on?
I decided to find out when we went to bed that night.
“Come in,” I heard Josh’s voice laugh. I walked in and saw Josh, Bradley, Adam, Steve,
Devin, Peter, and even Quincey gathered around, joking about girls or something.
“Josh, can I talk to you out in the hall?” I asked sternly.
“Sure, Cara.” He turned to the guys. “I’ll be back.”
I shut the door behind him and asked. “Why did I see you kissing Cara Daniels after
dinner?”
Josh couldn’t speak for a moment. “You saw that?”
“You better believe it, Josh Stevenson.” I cried softly, so no one else could hear us. “I
wanted to see if you would’ve liked to dance, but now I see the real you. How could you do that
to me?”
“I didn’t mean to hurt you, Cara. Really.” He pleaded. “I was stupid, Daniels was just
playing around, I don’t know how to explain it.”
I didn’t answer. I just stayed quiet, arms crossed under my breasts. “Please try.”
 “I love you, Cara, not her.” He said seriously. “I don’t know what got into me. I guess this
whole mystery thing has me spooked, and I wanted to escape.”
“You really mean it, Josh. You honestly love me?” I asked him.
He kissed me, then pulled me close. “Of course. What we have is precious to me, and I
don’t want to lose it for anything.”
“Not even Cara Daniels’ scheming mind?” I replied.
“Not even Cara Daniels.” He kissed me again. “You’re the only Cara I love, or will ever
love. You’ve gotta believe that.”
“Somehow, I believe you.” I said, hugging him. “Good night, Josh. I’ll see you at
breakfast.”
“Goodnight, Cara.” He replied back. “I love you.”
“I love you, too.”
I headed back to the girls’ room.
“Well? How did it go?” Kelly asked me. “Did he apologize for what he did?”
I nodded. “He even said he was stupid.”
“Typical.” Allie said.
“What do you mean by that?” I asked her.
“He’s reeling you in. I can tell these things.” Allie replied. “Don’t get caught in his trap.”
“Shut up, Allie.” I spat, heading to my bed. “Josh wouldn’t do anything like that.” I looked
to Kelly. “Would he?”
Kelly gave Allie a dirty look before turning to me. “Of course not. She’s just pulling your
leg.” She yawned. “It’s late, and I don’t want to think of anything else like this anymore
tonight.”
“Aren’t we going to have a slumber party?” Liz asked.
“Slumber parties are for little kids.” Kymm replied.
“I like slumber parties.” Miranda’s eyes began to water.
Lesal gave Kymm a dirty look. “Don’t make her cry, Kimberly Parker.”
“I’m not.” Kymm shot back. “I’m just saying.”
“Say it another time, okay?” Lesal retaliated. “I agree with Kelly. We should get some
sleep, in order to be well rested for the next clue in the morning.”
“Did you want to go over what we had so far?” KC asked us. “I mean, as long as we’re
wide awake.”
We all looked to Kelly, our great leader. “Why not? We could play CASE.”
Each of us huddled in the middle of the carpet in a big circle. Kelly grabbed her laptop
which we used as the club’s Crime Computer.
Before we could say anything, there came a knock on the door. Kelly mouthed, “It’s the
Unicorns and Rhiannon. Should we let them in?”
I shook my head, but the others nodded. “Come in.” I called, giving up.
Cara Daniels was the first to enter. Behind her were the rest of the Unicorns, Tasha
Martinova, Lara McAndrews, Ashley Beck, and Shelly Clark. Rhiannon Bennington, the Hill
View High witch, walked in beside Shelley.
“What do you guys want?” I asked nastily, just thinking of what Cara Daniels had done
earlier.
“We just wanted to discuss the case with you.” Cara replied.
“In other words, you need our help.” Kelly beamed. Rhiannon laughed.
“Well?” Tasha replied. “Can we?”
 Kelly laughed. “Sure, come on in.” She patted the floor next to her.
“If you think I’m sitting on the floor, you’ve got to be crazy.” Lara bellowed.
“We’ll sit on the beds, right Unicorns?” Cara demanded. She sure was a bossy president!
All but Rhiannon took a seat on the beds.
Rhiannon sat in between Amanda Jo and Kelly. “What have you got so far?” She asked us.
It was going to be kind of hard going over the case with the Unicorns. Did they know what
kind of trouble they were getting into? Rhiannon did, since we solved a mystery with she and
her boyfriend, Michael Catz, Hill View’s own resident male witch. He lives across the street
from me in the infamous Catz mansion.
“Well,” I started, “we know the hostess, Ms. Joyce is missing.”
“Okay.” Rhiannon replied. “What about the note that was left behind after the blackout?
What did it say?”
“I’ve got it right here.” Liz replied, handing it to Kelly. “It was the first clue, remember?”
“‘Red-letter woman, bound by the law, this author is sincerely quick to the draw. What’s the
title and who wrote it, too? Find out, and discover the second clue.’” I read aloud to the group.
We thought for a minute. I watched as Kelly tapped on her laptop. In seconds, she had
brought up the Literary Library. “Red-letter woman.” She muttered, tapping the keys.
“The only book about a red-lettered woman I know of is The Scarlet Letter, by Nathaniel
Hawthorne.” Amanda Jo announced.
“Where could we find that book?” Cara Daniels asked, seriously.
“Duh, in a library,” Krysti replied sarcastically.
“Is there a library in this house?” I asked Kelly.
“I think so, don’t you remember the tour Ms. Joyce took a bunch of us on?” KC asked. “She
took Krysti, Cara Daniels, Tasha, Rhiannon, and me.”
Tasha looked to us. “Yeah. I remember now.” Her face fell. “She told us they lock it at
night.”
“What’ll we do until then?” Ashley asked, bored all ready.
“Just what we are doing, Ashley.” I said. “Go over the case and figure out how we’re going
to solve it.” I turned to Kelly before Cara got a chance to say anything. “Let’s play CASE.”
“Case?” Cara asked. “What’s that?”
“It’s C-A-S-E, and it’s a fun way to go over a mystery.” Kelly replied. She explained to the
Unicorns and Rhiannon what it was. “Get it?”
“Sure, we get it.” Shelly rolled her eyes. “Now, get on with it, Reading.”
My best friend ignored her, and started a new Crime Computer Casebook Entry.
“The Case is this: our hostess, who happens to be Momma’s good friend from California,
named Loraine Joyce, is missing. She disappeared during a blackout last night.” Kelly began.
She looked at us for suggestions.
“I noticed how the maid was acting like she didn’t care what was going on.” Lara put in.
“Good. Anyone else?” Kelly asked, typing away.
“The butler was bored.” Rhiannon said. “I caught him yawning before the blackout, then he
looked at his watch.”
“This was shortly before, right?” I asked. “How soon?”
“Not even five minutes.” Rhiannon told me.
“I knew it. The butler did it!” Cara laughed.
“Shut up, Daniels!” I cried. “This is serious.”
“You shut up, Richardson.” Cara sneered. “At least my boyfriends stick around.”
 I stood, angry. Kelly didn’t dare interrupt when we were at it. “What do you mean by that?”
“I knew you were standing there at the door.” Cara replied sarcastically. She and I were face
to face. “I say, Richardson, he’s a brilliant lover.”
“Take that back, Cara!” I screamed, pushing her down on the floor. The other girls stood
back as I started to smack her. “You lying little tramp!”
Cara curled her hand up and didn’t dare to fight back. I didn’t hear when Mrs. Dratianos
came in to separate us.
“Girls!” She cried, pulling us apart. “This is no way for you to act, especially in someone
else’s house.”
The door was open, and I saw the boys gathered by it.
“Who started this?” Mrs. Dratianos looked from Cara to me. “What happened here?”
“We were just going over the case when Cara made a remark about someone I happen to care
about.” I told her, giving Cara Daniels a dirty look.
“Is this true?” Mrs. Dratianos held onto each of our arms, and she turned to her.
“Yes, Mrs. Dratianos, but I was only joking.” Cara buttered. What a liar!
“That’s not something to joke about, Ms. Daniels,” Mrs. Dratianos replied. She turned to
me, then back to her. “You hurt her feelings, and I want you to apologize.”
Cara was reluctant at first, but meekly mumbled, “Sorry, Cara.”
“Right now, I want each of you ladies,” Mrs. Dratianos faced the doorway where the boys
were watching, “and gentlemen to head back to your own beds to sleep. We’ll go over the case
in the morning after everyone has had a good night’s rest, understand?”
“Yes, Mrs. Dratianos.” I chanted with the girls. She released us and turned the boys.
“Say goodnight and head to your own rooms, gentlemen.” Mrs. Dratianos kissed Kelly’s
head and was on her way. “I don’t want to hear of anymore fighting while we’re in Love Joy’s
house, and that’s final.” She cried over her shoulder.
“You may have won this one, Richardson, but the bout isn’t over yet.” Cara sneered in a
whisper. “Come on, Unicorns. Let’s go.”
Rhiannon followed the Unicorns out the door, and I headed to bed.
Josh stood by my bed and kissed my forehead. “Good night, Cara. Thank’s for standing up
to her for me.”
“You would’ve done it for me, right?” I said. He nodded, then kissed my lips.
I smiled as I lay my head on the pillow. The spark between Josh and I was still there.

Kendra “KC” Jean Clark

Age: 16 Position: Secretary

The Mystery On Cue

Beware, SACDA's...

When Kendra "KC" Clark and her friends from TSDA try out for the school play, Romeo
and Juliet, mystery follows them to rehearsals. The team receive threats to quit the play...Or else.
When they ignore the notes, bad-luck strikes. This cool-under-fire team of super-sleuths aren't
going to rest until they have him - or her - in their clutches.
But, all the clues they find, lead them to more mysterious - and weirdly familiar - notes.
Mystery or no mystery, the show must go on. Will KC and TSDA hunt down and catch the
prankster before the show starts? Or will this be TSDA's first unsolved mystery?

Prologue
"Romeo and Juliet"

"Krysti!" I yelled to my best friend, Kirsten “Krysti” Farthay. "Will you slow down?"
"I can't." Krysti yelled over her shoulder, running at lighting speed. "I want to see if I got the
part of Juliet!"
"For goodness sake, Krysti." I said, following her to the drama room bulletin board, where
she stopped to catch her breath. "Mr. Krieger just put the list up this morning!"
"Which is exactly why I want to see it now." Krysti replied, panting.
"What's your rush, Kirsten?" somebody behind us asked snottily. We turned to see Lillian
Straus, the snob queen of Hill View High, glaring at us, hands on her hips. "You and I both know
that I am going to be Juliet."
“The name’s Krysti,” Krysti glared at her. "And what makes you think that you're good
enough to get the part?" She asked sarcastically, hands on her hips.
Lillian gave the two of us a dirty look, flinging her long, raven-black hair over her shoulder.
"No reason." She said simply, with a slight tone of meanness in her voice. With that, Lillian
turned and strutted over to the bulletin board, shoving everyone that stood in her way.
Krysti and I followed close behind.
"We'll show her, won't we KC?" Krysti asked, smiling.
"I certainly hope so, for your sake." I muttered under my breath, sighing.
"What?" Krysti asked.
"Nothing. Let's take a look at the list." I said.
Before we could take one more step, we heard Lillian screech, "What!?"
We raced to see what she had screeched at.
"Kelly Reading is Juliet?" a friend of Lillian's asked.
"Trini, shut up!" Lillian yelled at the pretty red haired girl, dashing out of the drama room
furiously.
"At least we kept it in the club." Krysti said.
"Look at the bright side, Krysti." I added. "If for any reason Kelly isn't able to make it, you
could perform in her place."
"I doubt it." a friendly voice kidded from behind us.
"Why's that, Kelly?" Krysti asked her.
"Because you aren't going to like your leading man." Kelly said, smiling.
Krysti ran her finger down the list.
"Devin Jones?" Krysti asked. She looked sheepishly from Kelly to the list. "I see what you
mean. You can go on in my place."
"Your place?" Kelly asked, smiling. "Let's not forget who got the part to begin with!"
"I'm not forgetting." Krysti said simply. "By the way, where's Romeo Allen?"
Kelly giggled, blushing as red as a tomato. Bradley Allen is Kelly’s boyfriend.
"I don't know. He was supposed to meet us here in the drama room, but I don't see him
anywhere." Kelly explained, searching the room. "Do you?"
Krysti and I looked at each other, then to Kelly, shaking our heads.
"Sorry, Kelly." I said. "We haven't."
"Well, I'm gone. See Ya!" Kelly replied, leaving to find her personal Romeo.
Later, in the same book:

I couldn't believe that I forgot the playbook! I thought I had it in my backpack, but when I
went to get it, it wasn't there.
I headed back to the drama room. I was about to enter, but I heard voices. Kelly's and
Devin's. They're probably just practicing some scenes together, I tried to convince myself. You
know what? I didn't listen to myself when I told myself not to go in there. When I opened the
door, and peeked inside the room, I saw Kelly and Devin -- kissing!
Closing the door quietly behind me and my mouth open in awe, so I wouldn't attract her
attention, I ran back to Krysti and the others.
"So," Krysti began. "Did you get your booklet back?"
I didn't answer her. Instead, all I did was stare blankly into space, my eyes wide open with
amazement. Wait until Bradley and Sandra Kendricks hear about this! Bradley was playing
Romeo's cousin and Sandra was playing Juliet's nurse. Both loved their significant-others at the
moment (at least, I knew that Bradley loved Kelly, so it must be the same for Devin and Sandra.)
I knew I was in way over my head this time. I also knew I couldn't keep a secret even if my
life depended on it. In this case, it does.
Gulp.

From later in Horizon Woods #1

This is going to be the worst year of my life, Kendra Clark thought sadly. I wish I never
moved here. Kendra reached for her special writing notebook and a pencil. She slammed the
locker shut, anger filled inside her.
She stared down at the ground, slowly and quietly walking to class. I wish I could just shrink
down into a hole and disappear. It's bad enough that I have a learning disability. Why did Dad
have to move us all the way here from our hometown in Maine? Everybody knew about me
there, and they still liked me.
 Bradley Allen (Schmidt)
Age: 17 Position: Treasurer

The Bomb Squad Mysteries:

Beginning of: Case Entry:
#10 Bradley’s Secret Journal Mystery

The Mysterious Journal

A Spooky Responsibility...

Bradley Allen Schmidt and his friends from The Bomb Squad love solving mysteries.
Especially since his idea-explosive girlfriend, Kelly Reading, keep him and their friends on their
toes.
Business has been slow for the club since their last case, and the Bomb Squad sleuths are
bored to tears. Until Miss Craven, nicknamed "The Raven," gives everyone in her classes a
History assignment that takes the teens into their pasts. It leads Bradley and Kelly to the
Dratianos' attic. What they find guides them deep into trouble -- in mystery form. Will the tough
teens of The Bomb Squad be able to crack a thirty-year-old unsolved mystery before terror
strikes?

Prologue
Bradley the Brave...and Friends

...It was a dark and stormy night. At least it was in my daydream. I hated listening to The
Raven (I mean, Miss Craven), my History teacher, ramble on and on about nothing.
Right now, I wished I were in the Dream Realm again.
You know, I used to love being in the Dream Realm with my girlfriend and her family, along
with our friends.
Those were the days...
...But, I'm getting caught up in the past. Again. And Dream Realm Crusading has absolutely
nothing to do with my creepy story.
Supernatural is a more appropriate word for our mystery adventure. Sort of.
I should explain.
In the first place, my name is Bradley Allen Schmidt, only I go by Bradley Allen. I'm the
treasurer of an exclusive mystery club ran by my idea-explosive girlfriend, Kelly Reading. I'm
sixteen years old and have brown hair, brown eyes, and glasses (yes, even I have to wear glasses
to read). I go to Hill View High School in Hill View, Michigan, and am a junior. I don’t have
any brothers and sisters, just my dad Aaron and his sister Aimee Schmidt.
This is a complicated story. I’m adopted, for one, and my dad Aaron is my girlfriend’s real
dad. Kind of confusing, since Kelly Reading and I were raised as brother and sister. We
recently found out I was adopted when we solved our first case.
I have many friends, all who are in the club - Teen Sleuths Detecting Agency, which I'll
explain about later.
 For now, I have to go back to History (pun not intended).
I stared out of a window while listening to The Raven ramble on. If I was to be called on to
answer a question right now, I wouldn't have a clue.
"Mr. Schmidt!" The Raven screeched. "Suppose if you come out of your daydream long
enough, you'd be able to answer the question on the board."
She frowned as she pointed to the question 'WHAT WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE
GREAT DEPRESSION?' This was not good. Not good at all.
Even after two years of high school, my teachers hadn’t gotten the hint.
"I'm waiting." The Raven replied, staring at me and tapping her foot impatiently. The whole
class started to snicker at me.
I glanced across the room at Josh Stevenson, my best friend. He was giving me a thumbs-up
sign and snickering.
Before I could respond, the bell bonged thrice, signaling lunch was about to begin.
Thank you, I thought. Saved by the bell!
I gathered my books together and headed out the classroom door. I reached my locker in
record time.
"Hi." I greeted Kelly, who was talking to Lesal DeRose and Miranda English. I wrapped my
arms around Kelly’s shoulders and planted a quick kiss on her cheek.
Lesal and Miranda rolled their eyes at each other. "We'll save you a seat at the table, Kelly."
Miranda replied as she and Lesal turned to leave.
"How was your morning?" Kelly asked sweetly, smiling.
"I was laughed at by the whole class." I said after I explained what had happened in The
Raven's class. "It was embarrassing!"
Kelly shook her head in mock sympathy. "Poor Bradley. Nobody loves you." she said,
giggling.
"Let's go, Kel." I said, slamming the locker shut and holding her hand, heading toward the
lunchroom.
Immediately, I saw Josh and our friends at what we now called, "The Bomb Squad Stand". I
sat down beside Josh. Kelly sat down across from Steve Edwards, her best guy friend, and beside
Cara Richardson, her other best friend who was seated at the end.
"I can't believe that The Raven actually wants us to dig up our family history, write about it,
and present it to the rest of the class next week." Krysti complained to Kendra "KC" Clark, her
best friend.
"I don't even know my family tree beyond my Gramma CeeCee Tien." Kendra replied.
"Why do you think she gave us the assignment, Kendra?" Kelly interjected matter-of-factly.
Kendra cringed. I think she hates being called by her first name.
"I don't know of any assignment." I replied to Kelly.
Josh laughed. "That's because you were in the Dream Realm." He joked.
"On the contrary, Stevenson," I said matter-of-factly. "I was simply daydreaming."
"Ha!" Kelly retorted, giggling. "I can read you like a book, Bradley, and so can Miss
Craven!"
"But seriously, people." Peter Valentine replied seriously. Peter was Adam's best friend and
fateful companion who thrives for perfection. "Where do you think we should begin the search
for our family trees?"
"Probably in the library - " Kelly began, shrugging.
"Or in the attic." Cara finished.
 Allison “Allie” Watson nodded, agreeing. “We may even find another mystery!”
KC groaned. “Don’t even think that way, Allie. I’ve had my share of crime and excitement
to last me a while.”
The Bomb Squad laughed.
The Bomb Squad is Hill View High’s name for our club, Teen Sleuths Detecting Agency.
For one, The Bomb Squad is obviously a detecting club that solves both big and little cases
around Hill View, Michigan. Originally, it was Kelly Reading's idea - which she dragged us into
– and has been following her ever since.
Just recently, we solved a mystery during the school play, Romeo and Juliet. When we
started to receive nasty notes telling us either to quit the play or suffer, we decided to take action.
After two weeks of pondering and sleuthing, we found out that Lillian Straus was responsible for
the notes. Lillian is one of the snobs of HVH. Nobody can stand to be around her, except those
who have been suckered into being her slaves, or those who idolize the stuck-up brat.
Anyway, as I was saying, The Bomb Squad has thirteen members.
I am proud to say that Kelly Reading, my girlfriend, is the President. Mainly because it was
her idea, and she runs the club with ease. Kelly is fifteen-years-old and is a regular genius when
it comes to detecting. Kelly is really short for her age, and has long reddish-brown hair that she
has grown down to her elbows, like her young mother. She has to wear glasses over her gorgeous
silver-blue eyes, which I personally told Kelly that they look good on her. I love her so much, it's
not funny anymore.
Kristen “Krysti”Farthay, is fourteen, wears her hair up, and is a real tom-boy. She has three
brothers, and is the best girl basketball player in Hill View. She’s still fighting with the school
board, not to mention Coach Farley, to let her join the team. Her position in The Bomb Squad is
being the club’s second Junior Officer. No big deal.
Kendra "KC" Clark is the Secretary of The Bomb Squad, and Krysti's best-friend. Kendra is
a fourteen-year-old, Asian-American girl with short-cropped, raven-black hair, and a style like
no one has ever seen. People in school try to dress like her, with some very mixed results!
Kendra lives only with her dad and housekeeper, Helena Pierce, ever since Mrs. Clark took off,
which was only ten years ago. Sometimes, I think she gets lonely in such a big house, being an
only child and all. That's probably why she hangs around the Farthay's house a lot (though she's
never told me in so many words).
You already know about me and about my being the Treasurer, but you don't know why. I
love numbers - and math. In fact, and I'm not gloating, I can add complicated equations in my
head faster than the average high-school junior. Cool, huh?
Going on, I'll introduce Kelly's best guy friend, Steve Edwards. He's the same age as Kelly is
- fifteen, but sometimes he acts a lot younger. I have known Steve ever since we were kids, and
often fought for Kelly’s attention throughout middle school and junior high. At first, I was a little
jealous of him, because he was spending so much time with Kelly. But that's beside the point.
Steve has brown eyes, and almost-black hair that he pulls back into a small, slick ponytail. Every
girl here at Hill View High falls helplessly in love with him. I think Steve loves all the attention
he gets from them. (Especially from the HVH Cheerleaders!)
When I said "every girl," I meant every girl except Miranda English, Lesal DeRose, Kelly,
Kendra, Krysti, Cara, Allie, and his twin Liz.
Miranda English and Lesal DeRose are like night and day, but that doesn't stop them from
being best friends. They're about as true-blue to each other and the rest of The Bomb Squad as
can be.
 Miranda has this georgous long, flowing dark-red hair that she either puts up in a French
Braid or leaves down. She's like Kelly - short for her age (fourteen), but not as outspoken as
Kelly is. Miranda is terribly shy, and doesn't like to speak in front of a crowd. If she did, she'd
faint. The one thing that Miranda doesn't get very often is angry, but when she does, people
know to shut up and listen. As you can see, Miranda hasn't had the best of lives. Especially since
she found out that she had diabetes. Any type of diabetes is the same as another in one way; your
pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin (or none at all, or too much), so you have to give
yourself a shot of it at least once a day. Miranda lives with her father and over-protective
younger brother, Mark Antony. When I say over-protective, I mean it! Mark-Antony thinks he's
Miranda's keeper. He always monitors her when he's home, reminding her to take her shot, or to
eat, or whatever. Miranda's always telling us that he's going to drive her crazy one day.
Lesal DeRose, Miranda's best friend, is an avid dancer and budding actress. Although, I think
that ballet is her passion. Lesal is not your ordinary Jamaican-American teenager. She's tall,
slender, and has these incredibly long dancers’ legs, which makes her the perfect prima ballerina.
Lesal is fourteen, a freshman here at HVH, and, along with Miranda, is a Spy Officer - which
was her idea. Lesal lives with her older sister, Yolanda, and younger brother, Davy. She and KC
are junk-food lovers, but you couldn't tell that by looking at them. They both have perfect
pimple-free complexions.
So does Allison (don't you ever call her that!). Allie is one amazing fifteen-year-old. She's
the Private Eye of The Bomb Squad. That means that she's the one to turn to for information, if
you need it. As far as I know, she hasn't been on any cases on her own yet, but that doesn't really
matter. She's a perfect genius when it comes to the crime-computer, her portable laptop which
she uses to store all the information we need, in case we need it again.
I almost forgot about Adam Smith, Steve's "twin" cousin,
Around HVH, Adam's known as the sophomore class clown, among other things.

(From the new #3: Bradley and the Mysterious Secrets)

More to Veronica’s plan: She’s nosing around HVH grounds when she runs into Richie
Carmichael, the Deadly Dragon’s leader who also wants the Bomb Squad out of commission.
She makes a deal with him to break up the lead couple of HVH, Kelly and Bradley. Something
that has to do with the ball game. Richie throws the pass in the direction of the cheerleaders.
Kelly’s hit by it, spraining her ankle to get out of the way. While Cara Daniels and Liz help her
to the bench, Bradley’s watching the entire thing. The coach calls a time-out, benching the
players. Bradley’s confronted by Veronica, who makes sure Kelly’s watching before kissing
Bradley on the lips in front of the entire Hawks squad. Kelly, of course, is confused and angry.
This leads Kelly to think Bradley is still in love with Veronica, the Bayside Cheerleader snob.

Come on, Brad. I heard a voice inside my head say. Pick up the phone and dial her number.
Tell Kelly how much you love her and care about her. Tell her the truth about you and Veronica.
You owe her at least that much.
So I did. I dialed the Dratianos' number.
Kelly’s mom answered.
"Dratianos residence,"
"Is Kelly home?" I asked.
"I don’t think she wants to talk to you right now, Bradley.” Mrs. Dratianos replied softly
after a minute.
 "Please, Mrs. Dratianos. May I talk to her?" I asked her. “It’s important.”
I heard her sigh. "All right. Just a minute, Bradley." Mrs. R. replied.
A few moments later, I heard a faint "Hello?"
"Hi, Kelly." I said. "It's me, Bradley."
Subtle. Really subtle.
"What do you want?" My (ex-?) girlfriend replied, agitated.
"I want to talk to you."
"So talk," She said quietly, "I'm listening."
"You do understand that I love you, don't you?"
"Past tense." She replied, correcting me. "Loved."
"No, Kelly. Present tense." I corrected her.
"Get to the point, Bradley. I have a game to go to."
"The point is, I still love you, my Kelly-girl." I explained, using the cute nick-name that
always made her smile. "No matter what other people might have told you."
"What about Veronica?" She asked uncertainly.
"What about her?"
"I thought, since you were spending time together, you guys would be an item again." She
explained.
So that's what this whole thing was all about. My old girlfriend from Bayside Middle School,
Veronica Whitehead. I was beginning to understand.
"That's nonsense, and you know it." I assured her softly. "Mr. Harrison just put us together
for the Math Competition. That's all there is to it."
"'Only this and nothing more?'" Kelly replied, quoting from The Raven, which was our
favorite poem from Poe.
I smiled. I knew all was forgiven.
“‘Quoth the Raven; “Nevermore,” I told her, smiling. "Nevermore."
"I thought you'd never say that, Bradley." Kelly replied sweetly. "For now, I have a softball
game to go to. Can I count on you to be there?"
"I'll be your personal cheerleader." I said. "Go, Kelly!"
"Bye, Bradley." Kelly laughed, "I love you."
"I love you, too. Good luck today."
"Thanks."
With that, we hung up.
It felt great to know that Kelly and I were together again. Really great.

Scene From: Case Entry:

#54 Bradley's Tough Decision

I rang the Dratianos's doorbell.

"Hey, Brad!" Her uncle Kevin greeted me, smiling from ear to ear.
"Hello, Mr. Woods." I said softly, deliberately avoiding eye contact. "Is Kelly home?"
"Sure." He told me simply.
I thanked him and headed toward the staircase leading upstairs.
 "Bradley?" He asked.
I turned. "Yeah?"
"I'm sorry to hear about the transfer. Hope you have fun in New York," Kevin added as
sympathetically as he could, "but I'm sure you won't because of my beautiful niece."
"Thanks for making me feel a little guiltier than I did before." I supplied forcing a sarcastic
smile, and even laughing a little.
"Anytime." Kevin tells me. "Anytime."
I shook my head at Kevin Woods' usual sarcastic remarks. I was going to miss that about
him. The sarcasm that is.
As I headed up the stairs, I thought to myself, What am I going to do? How are Kelly and I
going to react, as a couple, to what I am about to try to tell her?
I reached her bedroom door, which was closed, and took a deep breath before knocking.
Here goes nothing! I thought to myself.
"Come in." I heard her reply when I had knocked.
"Hi, Kelly." I greeted my girlfriend semi-cheerfully.
Kelly was sitting at the BOMB SQUAD Crime Computer, working on a document.
I hugged her tightly from behind, forcing her to turn.
"Hi yourself, Romeo Allen." Kelly replied, laughing.
Ever since the school play, and a case we called Mystery on Cue, she has been calling me
that cutesy nickname. I loved it. Too bad I'd never hear it again after I moved.
"Hey, " I said unenthusiastically, but forcing a weak smile all the same.
Kelly looked at me with concern written all over her face.
Her face. So beautiful, so perfect, and I have to say "so long" to it -- for six months.
"Is there something wrong Bradley?" She asked, sitting on her bed.
I sat down next to her, and started stroking her long and fine reddish-brown hair.
Kelly brought her hand up to touch mine, and asked, "Are you okay?"
I stared at her hands, which were now in her lap.
"Why don't we take a little walk?" I suggested to her. "To get some fresh air."
"Sure, but why?" She asked me.
"I have something to tell you." I said sadly, refusing to meet her tender glance.
As soon as we were outside, and out of ear (and eye) shot of other people, I hugged her
tightly against my body. Wrapping my arms around her waist and looking deep into her beautiful
blue-silver eyes, I gave her a special kiss.
"What's wrong?" She asked concerned, letting her voice trail. A single tear trickled down her
cheek. Kelly wiped it away with her finger and looked at the ground. "Are you leaving me?" She
asked, forcing herself not to cry.
"Yes, but it's not your fault." I assured her, nearly crying myself.
Kelly clung herself to me, and begun crying into my chest. "Oh, God." She murmured into
my sweatshirt. She took a deep breath. "This can't be happening."
"Kelly, listen to me!" I commanded, my voice cracking. I held her back so I could see her
beautiful face better. "I love you. I won't let anything short of death come between us."
It was so sad. Tears shone in Kelly's soft silver-blue eyes as I held on to her, her wet tears
covering her heart-shaped face.
"I told you, it's not your fault. Don't blame yourself for this, okay?" I tried to explain,
stroking her hair gently. "I found my real parents, and I want to get to know them. You know
how much this means to me.”
 “What about me?” Kelly whispered, turning away. “Don’t I mean anything to you?”
I took a deep breath. “By the Mystics, yes, you do. Goddess bless, Kelly, I love you.”
“Than why are you going away?”
I looked her in the eyes. Her silver-blue eyes were saddened, tears running down her cheeks.
I kissed them away. How could I explain something like this to her? It was so complicated.
“Please try to understand.” I replied, squeezing her hands. “I just want to know who I am. I
finally have the chance to live with my natural parents.”
She was silent, thinking.
"What's going to happen to us, Bradley?" Kelly asked softly.
"I don't know." I answered truthfully. "All I know is this. No matter what happens to me and
you, I'll still love you more than anything in the world."
"I love you, too, Bradley." She cried softly, letting her tears fall. "I don't want anything to
come between us. Especially some stupid move that means I'll never see you again."
Kelly and I just stood there, basking in each other's embrace, too sad for any other actions.
I loved her, and I didn't want to let her go, for anything in the world. I held Kelly's petite, but
beautiful body tighter, and closer, to mine. I hated to leave. But in two weeks, I had to. I just
couldn't bear not seeing her smiling face every day at school.
I kissed her long and hard.
"I don't want to leave you, Kelly." I whispered in her ear, pulling her even closer to me. "I
love you so much, it hurts."
* * *
The next day at school, Kelly was quiet, and for her, that's bad.
We greeted each other with saddened eyes, but no words.
For the rest of the day, when we ran into each other, she barely glanced at me.
When we had classes together, and I could sneak a glance from her, she quickly looked
away. As if she didn't want anything to do with me.
I felt miserable, and I wasn't even in New York yet.

Another Scene:

“Aimee, I think you should read this.” Dad said.

I stood still by the door, listening on a hunch.
Aimee snatched it from her brother’s hand. It took only a moment for her to announce sadly.
“It’s from Bradley’s birth parents.”
I gasped silently, holding my breath.
“What do they want?” Dad asked. I heard rustling of paper.
“They want to see him.” Aimee said softly.
“Do you think we should let them?” Dad asked.
Aimee started to cry. “I don’t want to let him go, Aaron. He’s like my son.”
Her cries were muffled by Dad’s chest. “He’s our son.”
I decided to walk out, pretending I hadn’t heard anything. I cleared my throat.
They each looked up.
Aimee looked to Dad. “He has a right to know.”
“Know what?” I asked.
Dad handed the letter to me. I read it, glancing at the address – in Yonkers, New York. I
looked up at them, a mixture of confusion and betrayal on my face. “How long have you known
about them?”
“Since we first adopted you.” Aimee whispered. She came over to me and hugged me tight.
“Oh, Bradley. Whatever happens, remember we’ll always love you.”
“I love you too, Aimee.” I hugged her, my eyes tearing over.
Dad hugged both of us. “We’ll always be family.”
Aimee sniffed back tears. She blew her nose and I wiped my own tears away with my sleeve
before reading it.
“‘Dear Schmidts,” it read. “‘I believe it has come the time for us to spend some time with
our son. I know you understand how hard it is for you to lose your own child. Especially Aaron,
never watching as the firsts of life are performed by your own flesh and blood. We thank you for
keeping in touch about his upbringing. If it would be alright, we invite Bradley Allen to live
with us for six months. Please write back and let us know of his decision.’”
At the very bottom was a single P.S. to me.
“‘Bradley, we’re sorry we had to do what we did. It wasn’t fair for us to send you away as
we did. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive us. Please think about our invitation, for it
would make all of us very happy in the end.’” It was signed twice: “‘Sincerely, Geoffrey and
Colleen Waters.’”
I was speechless; not knowing what to say.
I loved Dad and Aimee, and thought of them as my parents. Just as I had once thought of
Kelly as my sister.
What a predicament. I wanted to meet my real parents; to see who I really was, but I also
didn’t want to leave Hill View. I couldn’t stand the pain of losing Kelly.

Scene From: Case Entry #28:

The Rock Video Suspicions -- Bradley

"You won't believe what we ran into the other day." I told Josh.
"What?"
"Do you remember when the whole club had to solve a mystery with European Harmony?" I
asked him, digging into my backpack for the video.
"Yeah." Josh replied with a smile. "Peter, Devin, and I had to take over the club for two
weeks. Not fun at all." He glanced at me, watching me pull out the European Harmony video.
"Why do you ask?"
"Well, the other day, Kelly and I found this in her mailbox." I explained to my best friend,
handing him the tape. "With it, was a coded message."
"What's on it?" He asked, looking at the tape closely. "Have you played it yet?"
I laughed. "You're just filled with questions today, aren't you Josh?" I replied, patting him on
the back playfully and smiling. "The answer to your questions are I don't know; and not yet."
Josh looked at me strangely. "Huh?"
"You asked, 'what was on it?'; and 'have you played it yet?'. Right?" I asked.
"Yeah. So?"
"Well, for one, we haven't played the tape yet. For another, Kelly can't figure out what the
coded message says." I explained to my best friend.
Josh gasped as he gave me a look of mock-surprise and slapped his cheek with his hand. "Oh,
my goodness, no!" He exclaimed sarcastically. "We're doomed!"
 I laughed as I smacked him playfully. "Can it, dwelch. I'm being totally serious here."
Josh cleared his throat, smiling. "Okay, I give. What do you want me to do about it?"
"I was hoping that you'd come to the meeting and watch the video with us." I suggested.
"Why do want me to watch the video with the great BOMB SQUAD?" He asked.
"Because you're my best friend, that's why."
"Oh. Is that all?" He replied with a mysterious grin. "Well, if you put it that way, I'll come.
Tell me the info and I'll be there with bells on."
I told him the usual information, and we were off to Kelly's house to set up the tape, since the
meeting was in half an hour.
When we got there, Josh and I walked inside, since we didn't have to knock. The Dratianoss
knew us pretty well, since we usually came here all the time for BOMB SQUAD meetings.
(Kelly calls them whenever we're on a "mystery.")
After I said hello to her parents, and my father, they told us where we would find Kelly. In
the T.V. room, setting things up for the meeting.
"Hi, Kelly!" Josh greeted her with a smile.
Kelly looked up from her position on the floor and said cheerfully, "Hi guys!" She stood up,
pulled the wandering hairs out of her face, and gave me a quick kiss. "Glad you could make it!"
"Aren't you a little early?" Somebody asked from behind us. We turned to see Cara, Kelly's
best friend, looking at us skeptically while looking at her watch.
"Yeah," Josh eyed Cara suspiciously after they kissed hello. "When did you get a watch?"
Cara headed over to us, sitting herself down on the couch lazily, examining her nails,
shrugging. Josh sat next to her.
"Cara’s borrowing my old watch until she purchases a new one. She somehow misplaced her
own." Kelly teased knowledgeably, giving me a tender squeeze.
I laughed lightly, since I knew Cara didn't like to be teased or laughed at for any reason
(except when she wants to be).

Scene From:
Case Entry: #23:
Bradley and the Stolen Money Mystery:

I went to my locker to get the old cigar box with the Senior Class treasury in it. I was going
to show everyone just how responsible I’d become since middle school. I knew I had gotten
better since then; why would Kelly make me the Treasurer of the Bomb Squad if she didn’t trust
me? That had to tell me something.
I reached to the top shelf, underneath all the papers I’d hidden it under and retrieved it.
When I opened it, I found it empty.
Empty? Over a grand of the Senior Class trip money was missing! I couldn’t have
misplaced it – I put it there myself this morning.
Get a grip Bradley Allen, I chided myself. It could have fallen out into the locker.
I checked – nothing.
What was I going to tell Mr. Ruggers? All the money was missing, and I’d be to blame.
I raced back to the classroom after shutting my locker.
I tried not to let anyone see me, but Brock Cavanaugh did and waved.
Great. Just great.
 I slumped in my chair after nodding a quick hello. I thought it over, as If I were a detective
on a robbery case. That wasn’t hard – I was a natural detective with the Bomb Squad. It was the
game of “CASE” that confused me. I mean, who would want to take money from their school?
The only ones with the combination I knew of were Kelly and myself. Only Kelly saw me
hide it underneath the pile of papers.
Kelly wouldn’t stoop that low – would she?
My thoughts were interrupted by Mr. Ruggers.
“Mr. Schmidt, can you tell us how much is in the Senior-Class Treasury?”
I looked up at him and gulped. “Nothing, sir.” I nearly whispered.
“I’m sorry, what?”
I spoke louder. “I said, nothing, sir. The Senior-Class Treasury has been robbed.”
The entire room grew silent after they gasped in amazement.
Mr. Ruggers’ beady eyes stared at me, trying to keep from blazing at me. “I suggest you find
it, Mr. Schmidt. Otherwise, you will have to pay it back. Not only that, but the Senior-Class trip
will have to be canceled.”
“Good going, Bradley!” I heard Sean Bradshaw exclaim.
What was I to do?

The first thing I did was confront Kelly.

As usual, she greeted me with her vivacious smile, soft silver-blue eyes, and a gentle kiss on
the lips. When she looked at me, her smile turned into a frown and her eyes turned worried.
“Bradley, what’s wrong?” Kelly asked me.
How could I say it? “The Senior-Class Treasury’s missing.” I said it calm and cool, not too
harsh or demanding.
She just stared at me, reading my eyes and thoughts. “And you think I did it?”
I didn’t say anything.
“You actually believe that, don’t you?” Kelly cried, backing away from me and folding her
arms. “Don’t you?”
“Where did you get the new program for the Crime Computer?” I asked her.
“I bought it.” She said.
“With the treasury money.” I blurted.
“I don’t believe this – Bradley, have I ever lied to you?” Kelly asked me.
I was silent.
“Have I ever stolen from you?”
Still, I stood staring at her.
“The answers are ‘no’, and why would I?” Kelly said. “That would only hurt you, and I
don’t ever want to hurt you like that. Ever.”
“The evidence, Kelly.” I said.
“What evidence? A program I bought with my own money for my laptop?” She replied.
“What kind of evidence is that?”
“I checked the prices in the stores. It’s pretty expensive.” I remarked.
“That’s why it took me one months’ tips and wages to buy it.”
Tips and wages? “Where did you get the money, Kel?”
She didn’t say anything at first, turning away from me.
“So you did steal it?”
“I did not!” She turned on me. “I earned it working as a waitress at the Clubhouse.”
 I was stunned. My voice was soft. “Why didn’t you tell me this before?”
“I wanted it to be a surprise.” She said. “I wanted to buy you something that came from my
heart, bought with my own money, not my mother’s or Derrick’s.”
Her head was down now, and her eyes peeked a single tear. I dared wrap my arms around
her and hug her close to me. I knew why she wanted it that way. Because she loved me so
much.
“You don’t have to say it, Kel.” I whispered in her ear as I hugged her close to me. “I love
you, too, and I’m sorry for accusing you.”
I took her chin in my hand and made her look at me before placing a kiss on her lips.
I did love her so, and had done her an injustice by blaming her. I knew she wouldn’t stoop
that low, but the evidence was stacked against her.
“Why don’t you help me find out whodunit?” I asked her.
She smiled, and I knew all was well again.
“Sure. It’ll be our own little private case.” She said.
We sealed the deal with another kiss.

Scene From:
Case Entry: #32:
The Dream Realm Crusaders (The System #1):

The Dream Realm Crusaders

THE BOMB SQUAD in the System

Bradley Allen Schmidt can't believe that The System, the place where he and his girlfriend,
Kelly Reading became detectives, is about to be shut down! The System's chief of detectives,
Shannon Ryan-McNathaniels, invites Bradley, along with Kelly to help move boxes and papers
out of The System's hideout. Kelly and Bradley are saddened by the news, so they ask their best
friends from THE BOMB SQUAD to tag along. Unfortunately, it isn't going to be easy to say a
good-bye to the place where their adventures as teen-detectives began.
But the whole ordeal becomes lightened when Krysti and KC come across a secret document
that proves that The System belongs to Shannendoah Willoughby, an ancestor of Shannon's.
What is the mystery behind the document and how will Shannon get the famous teen-sleuth
detecting agency back? It's the toughest case that THE BOMB SQUAD has ever experienced, for
it takes place in the past -- in the Dream Realm! Will THE BOMB SQUAD solve the case before
time runs out...for them?

Beginning of:
Case Entry:
#32 The Dream Realm Crusaders (the System #1)

Prologue
An Urgent Letter from The System

Dear Adellandra, Derrick, and Kelly,

Trouble has come to us, THE SYSTEM, and there isn't anything we can
 do about it. All I can tell you now is that we're in T-R-O-U-B-L-E!!! I am writing
to you, because I have some urgent business to discuss with the three of you. We
need your help in clearing out our old things from Headquarters, in Shore Point,
California.
Feel free to bring your friends Kelly (only those you can really trust), as
the saying goes, "The more the merrier."
Enclosed are your new com-watches and pass-codes, along with any other
special information you may need. I will explain the problem to it's full extent
upon your arrival.
Hope to see you again soon, Dratianos’.

Your old "Boss,"

Shannon C. Ryan

"'Full extent upon your arrival?'"

"Oh, no! This can't be true!"
"Shore Point, California? Is that anywhere near Hollywood?"
"It has to be a misprint."
"What are 'com-watches' and 'pass-codes?'"
"When do we leave?"
My friends hovered around me, reading the letter over my shoulder. Steve Edwards,
Kelly Reading, Krysti Farthay, Adam Smith, KC (a.k.a. Kendra Clark), Miranda English, Lesal
DeRose, Allison “Allie” Watson, Cara Richardson, Carrie and Kymm Parker, and I were
gathered in Kelly’s bedroom, where we usually meet to talk about mysteries.
Steve was the one that said, in a sarcastic tone, "'Full extent upon your arrival?'"
Kelly was the one that cried, discontented, "Oh, no! This can't be true!"
Miranda was the one that asked dreamily, "Shore Point, California? Is that anywhere near
Hollywood?"
Lesal was the one that had asked, puzzled, "What are 'com-watches' and 'pass-codes?'"
Adam was the one that cried, jokingly, "When do we leave?"
And yours truly said, "It has to be a misprint."
All this was at the beginning of yet another installment of a THE BOMB SQUAD club
meeting. One of many that I had to attend regularly to keep up with the "crime scene." I didn't
mind; I loved detecting. In fact, I got my start in The System, which I'll tell you all about later.
Right now, it's time to get back to the middle of the meeting.
I glanced around the bedroom. Kelly was hugging me from behind. Krysti was suddenly
looking uncomfortable as she fiddled with a piece of loose carpeting, biting her lip. KC was
sitting next to her, comforting her best friend. Steve was trying to figure out what Krysti's
problem was. Adam was watching Steve very carefully. Lesal and Miranda were teaching each
other new signs that they had learned in American Sign Language class. (The whole club has to
learn Ameslan, even Kelly and I, who already know it.) Cara was sitting on the floor next to KC.
Allison “Allie” was seated beside Kelly and me.
Which brings me to me, Bradley Allen (Schmidt, I was adopted). I was reading an urgent
letter Kelly’s parents had received from The System. Kelly and I were devastated to hear that
the most important place in their lives was about to be shut down.
 "What are we going to do, Bradley?" Kelly asked, snatching the letter out of my hands
and sitting on my lap. A single tear glistened from her eye. “That’s where my parents met, and
you know how they feel about each other and the System.”
I wiped it away with my index finger. "I'm sure we could do something, Kelly." I told her
confidently. I gave her a little squeeze, making her smile, just a bit. I turned to the rest of the
group. "Right guys?"
"Yeah. Right." They all responded, nodding their heads.
"What is so big about The System?" Allie asked, looking up from the BOMB SQUAD
Crime Computer.
Kelly and I stared at her.
"If it wasn't for The System, Allie, Kelly and I wouldn't have been able to meet each
other." I explained, matter-of-factly, smiling at Kelly.
“How sweet!” Allie giggled.
“I thought your mom and dad met in an orphanage?” Adam asked, confused.
“They did. You have to remember that my Daddy Derrick is my step-dad.” Kelly
recalled. “My real dad, Aaron, is Bradley’s adopted dad. Understand?”
Adam nodded. “I think.”
Lesal cleared her throat and wanted to get back to the point. "What are we going to do
about this letter from the System?"
Kelly and I glanced at each other and shrugged. "I guess we go to California and find out
what's going on." Kelly sighed, perching herself backwards on her president's chair. She folded
her arms on the back of the chair and sighed again.
I could tell that Kelly was worried about the letter, so I commented, "I wonder if the com-
watches work from here?"
Krysti looked up at me. "Why don't you try them and find out?" She asked sarcastically.
"These are new." I told her. "I don't know anything about them."
"Weren't there any special instructions enclosed?" Cara asked me.
I turned to the packaging in which the letter, communicator-watches, and codes had come
in. I looked inside, inspecting everything to no avail.
There was a knock at the door, interrupting the silence.
“Come in,” Kelly said sadly.
“Kelly, did you tell them about the letter?” Kelly’s step-dad Derrick asked her as he
popped his head in.
“Yes, Daddy. I have it right here.” Kelly replied.
“Did you want to come with us this weekend? We’ll gladly pay your way.” Derrick
asked the group.
We looked at each other. Kelly looked ecstatic. She nearly bolted out of her seat, giving
her step-dad a big hug. “Thank you, Daddy Derrick!”
I nodded. “I thank you as well, I’m sure we all do, right everybody?”
They nodded.
“Shore Point, here we come!” Miranda cried, throwing up her hands.
“There’s a catch.” Derrick cried above the cheering.
“I knew it!” Allie provided. “What’s the catch?”
“Tell no one, keep it a secret, and most of all,” Derrick started.
“Whatever you see, hear, or even do must be kept to yourself.” Kelly finished for him.
“I’ve been there more than once, and each time I learn something different. Cousin Shannon is
the boss there, and I would like all of you to treat her with the utmost respect. Believe me, guys,
she deserves it.”
“Right.”
We looked at each other, uncertain, and unbelieving.
Were we in over our heads?

Scene From:
The BOMB SQUAD Mysteries
Snapshots: #2
The First Time I Fell In Love -- Bradley's Memory

To really know me, you'd think my first love was Kelly Reading.
NOT!
It was a girl in middle school named Veronica Whitehead. Veronica is a peculiar soul.
She was a bit of a sex maniac along with being one of the most mean and spoiled brats I had ever
met.
At the time, I was young and dying to be popular. Josh Stevenson was my only best
friend. The “group” of Kirsten (Now Krysti) Farthay, Devin Jones, Peter Valentine, Jonathen
Kincaid, and Samantha West always hung together. Adam Smith and his cousins Steve and Liz
Edwards sat together. Kelly Reading, my girlfriend now, wasn’t even enrolled yet. Cara
Richardson, her best friend, was a quiet loner who wanted to be left alone. KC, of course, wasn’t
in the picture, yet. (You know she moved into Samantha’s house when Sam left for New York).
The Parker twins always dressed alike, looked alike, and even acted alike at times. Yet, they
were the most popular girls, (behind Veronica) at Hill View Horizon Woods.
Kelly, I might add, was still new to the area, and was my sister. This was before we
found out I was adopted.

Bradley Allen Schmidt

Where it all began...

Scene from: Case Entry:

#71: Mandy's Emergency

"Miranda, what are you doing?" I asked, watching her stuff her face with candy I knew
she couldn't have.
Startled, she turned around. "Nothing, Bradley." She lied. Miranda quickly stuffed the
candy back into her pockets, and headed back to the living room.
I held her shoulder to stop her. "Where do you think you're going with those chocolate
bars?"
She shook me off. "For your information, I'm going to give them to KC. So you can stop
hounding me now, Bradley Allen." She exclaimed nastily.
Whoa! I've never seen her act like this! I've always thought that she wasn't one to lose
her temper that easily. She was usually so calm and serene. "Mandy, I didn't mean to hound
you, really. I'm just concerned about you, that's all."
 "There's nothing to be concerned about." She told me, turning on her heal and striding
back to the living room, where our friends await. I followed close behind.
When we entered, I automatically sat next to Kelly, and watched Miranda sit next to her
faithful best friend, Lesal.
Every so often, she and I would have eye contact. I shook my head at her when she
looked away. Something was bothering her, I could tell. I just had to figure out what. Before
she hurt herself. Before it's too late.
After the meeting, but before I went home, I stopped Lesal in the hallway. "Hey, Lesal.
Could I talk to you? Alone."
She saw the pleading look in my eyes and said, "Sure. What's up, Bradley?"
"Have you noticed any changes in Miranda lately?" I asked.
"Besides her new look?"
I nodded. "Yeah. Have you?"
"She doesn't seem to want to hang around my house anymore." Lesal told me, frowning.
"In fact, Davy misses her."
I smiled a little. Davy was Lesal's Downs Syndrome little brother. He always had a
knack for making one of his older sister's friends smile. "What about her attitude?" I asked,
getting back to the original subject. "To me, she seems a little, I don't know, out of whack."
"Maybe she's having a hard time at home, and just doesn't know how to handle it?" Lesal
suggested, shrugging. "Beats me."
We were silent for a minute. "Can I walk you home? My car's in the shop again." I
suggested with a smile.
"Sure." She said. "Doesn't look like Miranda's coming with us, though?"
"No. I think Miranda needs a little time for herself." I said.
We headed out the door, and were on our way to Grovenberg Lane, where Lesal lived.
"Why are you so on about Miranda lately, anyway?" Lesal asked me suspiciously.
Quickly as I could, I told her what I had discovered about her best friend just an hour ago.
When I finished, Lesal was silent.
"I was afraid of something like this." I told her. "Miranda burst out at me when I asked
her what she was doing. I wonder what could be wrong."
"I don't know, Bradley." Lesal said, with a tear glistening in her eye. "I'm worried about
her too."
I thought of something. "Lesal, we're detectives, right?"
She nodded, but looked at me strangely.
"Why don't we make this our case?" I suggested, trying to lighten the mood.
Lesal shrugged. "Why?" She said. "I mean, what would be the point? Why not just ask
her what's going on?"
Before I answered, I noticed that we had arrived at the DeRose's, and I ushered her
inside. "We tried that, remember?" I said.
"Braddy! Leesie!" We heard an excited cry exclaim as we walked into the living room.
"Davy says hi! So does Mouse!" Davy held out his pet hamster to us with an excited giggle.
"Hey, Davy-boy!" I cried, glad for the distraction. I held my hand out to him for a high-
five, and Davy slapped it. "All right!"
"Go, Davy!" He cheered, smiling his usual adorable smile. "Bye now. See you later,
Braddy!"
With that, Davy headed to his room.
 "Your brother is pretty cute. You know that, Lesal?" I told her with a smile. She had a
faraway look in her eyes. "Earth to Lesal. Do you read? Over." I joked.
She shook her head out of the clouds, and answered blankly, "Huh? I'm sorry, Bradley.
What'd you say?"
"I told you how cute your brother Davy is." I said softly. "Lets go somewhere where we
can talk without any interruptions."
"Sure." She said absently. "Lets go up to my room."
I followed her up the stairs and into her wildly messy bedroom. I saw dance clothes
scattered all over the floor, a ballet barre on the far wall, and a full-length mirror on the wall.
"You don't mind if I stretch out, do you?" She asked.
I shook my head. "Nope. I'm used to it by now."
I watched her stretch out each leg on the barre. "You're really worried about Miranda,
aren't you?" I asked cautiously.
She stopped, and turned to me. "Yeah. I am."
"I know how you feel." I said after a while. "I'd feel the same way if Kelly or Craig were
taking chances with their health."
"It's not just that. I mean, Mandy's been acting kind of jittery and jumpy lately." She told
me. "Take cheering practice for example. Mandy usually stays behind the crowd, and does
everything that the rest of us are doing."
"Now she's --?" I questioned.
"She's, I don't know, acting a lot like Cara Daniels and Lillian Straus. Snobby and
always wanting to be the center of attention." Lesal tried to explain.
"I know what you mean," I said. "Moody." I glanced at my watch, and told her. "Looks
like we'll have to figure the rest of this out later. I've got to go. See you, Lesal."
She didn't respond. Instead, she just looked off into space with a sad and gloomy look. I
sat down next to her. "Everything's going to be okay. Trust me." I planted a friendly peck on
her cheek, and patted her on the shoulder. "See you later, alligator."
She nodded, and I left her only to find a similar situation at my own not-so-humble
abode.
"Hey, everybody!" I cried into the air as I walked inside and shut the front door behind
me. "I'm home."
"In the living room, Bradley." I heard my dad's soft voice say.
I strode to the living room and saw my whole family -- Dad, Aunt Aimee and the
Dratianos’, sitting around solemnly, not bothering to look at each other.
"What's going on?" I asked, glancing at each one of them.
"Mr. English just called here." Dad began sadly, clearing his throat.
"He told us that Miranda just fainted as soon as you and Lesal had left." Aimee told me,
looking from her brother to me. "Right now, he and the rest of the Club are at the Philbrooke
Memorial Hospital."
I stood there, silent and unsure of what to say. I knew this was going to happen sooner or
later. I stared at the floor.
"If you want, I could drive you over there, Bradley." Mrs. Dratianos suggested.
I looked at each of my families faces. I turned to Dad. "May I --?" I started.
He nodded yes and gave me the keys to his Jeep.
"Thanks, Dad." I said, then headed out the door, quick as a flash.
I just hoped Miranda was going to be all right.
Scene From:
The Bomb Squad Mysteries: Extra! Extra!
#5 The Computer Hacker

I looked at the screen again.

BEWARE OF THE UNEXPECTED...OR DIE.
This couldn’t be happening to me. It had to be a dream. No, a nightmare.
What in the world was going on? I knew I wasn’t on-line with someone, and I knew that
my modem wasn’t in use. How could this other person be communicating through my
computer? It just wasn’t possible without the modem. Unless...
In a ray of hope and a flash of inspiration, I typed in the most annoying message that I
could think of. IT’S A GLORIOUS DAY TO DIE. DON’T YOU THINK?
I gasped when I heard it interrupting my thoughts. “Tonight, you die. Pleasant screams!”
I screamed out, “No!” Into the eerie and tense silence in the air. The only one that
seemed to have heard me was Kelly, my girlfriend and partner for the game.
She looked up from her book when she heard my cry. “What’s going on, Bradley?” She
asked with concern. “I sense a strong, evil presence in this room.”
All I could say was, “I haven’t the foggiest clue what’s happening.”
Boy, was I ever glad Kelly was telepathic. I couldn’t have put my phrase better, and she
seemed to sense my intense trepidation, finally understanding. She immediately jumped from
the bed and grasped me from behind, obviously frightened. “What are we going to do? I don’t
want you to die.”
“This game has to stop somewhere, Kelly.” I told her. “I just wish it were somewhere
else right now.”

Scene From:
Case Entry #15
Bradley and the Birthday Secret

I just loved it when I could outwit Kelly. It was a wonderful, glorious feeling.
"Bradley!" Somebody exclaimed. I snap out of my daydream to find Lesal, Miranda,
Adam, Cassie, Steve, Krysti, KC, Cara, Allie, Carrie, Kymm, Peter, and Ericka staring back at
me. It was Ericka who spoke. "Snap out of it, Top Gun."
I smiled. Top Gun was a Gazette nickname for me. Since I wrote on the movie during
Spirit Week last month Ericka, along with the rest of the Gazette staff, have called me that as a
joke. I didn't mind. I thought it was kind of cool.
"What's up?" Lesal asked. "And where's Kelly? Usually, she's the one to call a meeting
of our great club."
"True, Lesal, but this isn't a club meeting." I told her, getting to the point. "What day is
coming up in two weeks?"
Krysti rolled her eyes and said, "Kelly's birthday, what else? She has been bugging the
living daylights out of me, driving me completely bonkers!" She exclaimed, dramatically trying
to pull her hair out. "She keeps asking what we're going to get for her on her sweet sixteenth. I
can't stand it anymore!"
 "I understand completely." I told her. "Which is why I, Bradley Allen Schmidt -- the
Treasurer of the Bomb Squad and Senior Class, Sports Editor of the Gazette -- have come up
with the most brilliant plan."
My friends looked at each other, then at me strangely.
"Plan?" Sandra asked sarcastically. "What kind of plan, or shouldn't I ask?"
I scowled at her playfully, then continued to outline my so-called "brilliant" plan.
"Well?" I asked them when I had finished. "What do you think?"
Krysti smiled. "Thumbs-up. Definitely." She turned to the rest of us. "Agreed?"
"Definitely," my friends chorused, all giving me thumbs-up signs.
I smiled. It felt great to have such wonderful friends as the Bomb Squad.

The night of her birthday, there was a football game. The Hawks won against the
Bayside Bulldogs 24-7, the Hawkettes (including Kelly) cheered us to victory, and were taking
the winning team to the Clubhouse, Hill View's own favorite teen hangout to celebrate.
I decided to take her out for a celebration, but she sensed something was up, so she
declined.
I conned her into a drink, at least, and we were sitting at a table alone.
“If you excuse me for a minute, Kelly.” I replied, standing up. “I’ve got to go to the
bathroom.”
It was a plausible excuse. I really headed to the payphone to call her house.
“Hello?” Came her mother’s voice.
“It’s Bradley. Is it all ready to go?”
“It will be by the time you arrive, if you’re on your way.”
“Great. See you in a few minutes, then. Bye.”
We hung up, and I walked back to the table.
“I’m tired, Kelly.” I replied. “Let’s go home now.”
“I’m tired too. Let’s go.” Kelly replied.
We paid for the drinks and left the Clubhouse in my Dad’s Jeep.

We arrived ten minutes later, and I parked the Jeep in our driveway. “I just
remembered.” I lied. “I have to get something from your mother.”
Kelly shrugged, confused. “Whatever.”
We walked in and the lights were off. “Where are my parents? Oh, well.” Kelly replied,
and switched the lights on.
“SURPRISE!” We heard everyone pop up out of their hiding places to cry out. “HAPPY
BIRTHDAY, KELLY!”
We looked at Kelly who was speechless, with her mouth wide open. Her face went
white.
Her eyes rolled to the back of her head, and she fainted.
As she fell to the floor, I caught her in my arms.
“Uh, oh.” I heard Allie’s voice whisper.
“Get Kelly to the couch, Bradley.” My Dad ordered.
I carried her to the couch and lay her down. I gently slapped her on the cheeks,
whispering. “Come on, Kelly. Wake up.”
“Got any smelling salts?” Kymm asked Kelly’s mother.
“I’m afraid we don’t, Kimberly.” Mrs. Dratianos told her, shrugging. “Sorry.”
 Mrs. Dratianos was the only one that could call our friends Allie, Steve, Liz, Krysti,
Kymm and Carrie by their full first names. We never understood why.
Anyway, we tried a lot of different ways to awaken her to no avail.
Finally, I thought of something. “I’ll try one more thing, everybody. I’m pretty sure it’ll
work, too.” Cara looked at me strangely, then she understood.
I kissed her sweetly, saying in my mind at the same time, I love you, Kelly. Wake up
from the Dream Realm and greet your friends.
I sat up and looked at her. Kelly’s eyes fluttered open, and she looked around, sitting up.
“Woah,” I said as I helped her up. “Are you okay?”
Silent, she nodded. “I think so. Thanks.” Kelly looked around, confused. “Where am I?
What’s going on?”
I looked to her mother for suggestions. She didn’t know her own home? “You’re home.
Here with your family and friends.”
She glanced at me, confused. She whispered. “Who am I?”
“Oh, no.” Allie’s voice replied again.
“Hush for a minute, okay?” I asked her.
Allie shrugged, and my attention turned back to Kelly.
“You’re Kelly Reading. Does that ring a bell?”
She shook her head. “Sorry.”
“Great,” I replied, hands in the air. “I give. Mr. and Mrs. Dratianos, I give up.” I
looked to my dad. “I don’t know what to do.”
“She’s got amnesia.” Kelly’s aunt Adarra, who was also Mrs. Dratianos’ twin, spoke up.
“I know it.” Adarra turned to her sister, and silently gave her a message. It didn’t take a telepath
to understand what she wanted. She wanted only the family there, just in case.
“I’m sorry, kids, but we’ll have to continue later.” Mrs. Dratianos replied sadly, looking
down. “If you need a ride, Kelly’s uncle Shane can drive you home.” She glanced to me, saying
silently. Stay, Bradley. She needs you.
I nodded and looked back at Kelly. She was smiling at me.
As soon as our friends had left, the family gathered around her. Kelly’s uncle came back
minutes later, and we started. I looked around me. There were Kelly’s mom and her twin
Adarra. My adopted dad (Kelly’s real dad) Aaron and his twin sister Aimee. Kelly’s uncle
Shane, and her step-dad Derrick. Her Gramma Susan and Great-Aunt Sharon were there, too.
Even a few people I didn’t recognize.
“Who are you?” Kelly asked us. The family each introduced themselves again to her,
understanding her amnesia.
When it came to me, I told her. “I’m your boyfriend, Bradley Allen.”
“Is that why you kissed me?” Kelly asked with a smile.
I nodded.
“The reasons we had your friends leave darling, is that you’re a very special young lady.”
Her mother started. “Do you remember anything at all?”
Kelly shrugged. “No. Sorry.” Kelly hugged her knees.
Kelly looked to me. “How am I special?”
I glanced at Mrs. Dratianos and Mrs. Morehouse (Kelly’s aunt Adarra).
“Look at the locket around your neck.” Mrs. Dratianos pointed. Kelly did so. “Do you
know what that little unicorn surrounded by a globe means?”
Kelly shook her head, but continued to stare at it. “It is pretty, though.” Her eyes went to
the ring on her finger. “This is really pretty. What is it for, if anything?”
I smiled at her. She remembered a little. “That’s your Power Ring. It helps you sustain
your power so you don’t use it when you don’t want to.” I explained. “The locket is called the
Dream Locket. It, well,” I looked to her mother. “What is it for?”
“That, Kelly, is for when you want to visit the Dream Realm.” Mrs. Morehouse said.
“That is where you are the Enchantress.”
I stared at them, unbelieving. I knew she wasn’t lying about that, but now I was sure she
was telling the truth.
Her mother and aunt Adarra explained about the Mystic Sisters a little better, hoping
Kelly would remember something.
Just then, we heard the door slam and Kelly’s younger brothers, Mark-Antony and
Andrew rushed in. They each gave their older sister a kiss on the cheek. “Happy birthday,
Kelly.” The twins chorused.
She laughed. “Thanks, but who are you?”
The twins looked at each other.
Mark looked into Kelly’s eyes. “Are you serious?”
“Unfortunately, yes.” She shrugged. “I honestly don’t know who you are.”
“I’m Mark, and he’s Andrew.” Marc replied. “We’re your younger brothers.”
Andrew cried out. “We’re twins!”
Kelly laughed again. “I see that. I also see there are a lot of twins in the family.” She
looked to her mother. “Am I a twin?”
Mrs. Dratianos shook her head. “Sorry, honey, you’re not.”
There was a silence as Kelly looked down at her lap. “Oh.”
The boys sat next to her on the floor.
“Why don’t we show her who we really are, Sisters?” A woman who introduced herself
as Kelly’s Mom’s Cousin, Shannon Ryan-McNathaniels replied.
Mrs. Dratianos nodded and turned to her daughter. “Kelly, I want you to do something
for me.”
“Yes, Momma?”
“I want you to hold on to the Locket and you close your eyes.” Mrs. Dratianos replied.
“Give me your left hand, please.”
Kelly did so. “Now,” Mrs. Dratianos replied. She began to chant something I couldn’t
understand. Pretty soon, everybody in the room, except myself, was chanting the same thing as
they held hands with their eyes closed.
I stood up and decided to leave while they were chanting.
This definitely was something I had no business knowing. It was her family, not mine.
I made my way to the front door and quietly closed it behind me.

Another scene:
Just as Kelly and I sat on the couch, ready to snuggle in front of the video, there came a
ring of the doorbell. Since Mr. Reading was nearby, he answered it. For a moment as he opened
the door, he was silent.
“Hi.” I thought I heard Kelly’s voice say, so I made sure she was beside me by looking
at her.
“What’s up?” Kelly asked me.
“My detective’s instincts are triggering again.” I told her. “Wanna check it out?”
 Kelly shrugged. “Why not? It’ll be fun.”
We stood up and headed to the door, watching from the kitchen once Mrs. Dratianos
abandoned it.
Mr. Reading and a young girl were staring at each other, speechless. I didn’t recognize
the young girl, and she was holding hands with someone.
“Invite them in, Derrick.” Mrs. Dratianos replied softly, in awe herself.
What were they so awed about? I asked myself.
That’s when Mr. Reading moved. I was staring at Kelly, only it wasn’t her. Same long,
reddish-brown hair, silver-blue eyes and gentle features, only I was sure it wasn’t Kelly.
“Come in, girls. Warm up from the long, cold trip.” Mrs. Dratianos replied with a grin.
Kelly, who was standing beside me, held her breath as she tried to keep silent.
What was going on? Who was that girl impersonating Kelly?
To my surprise, Kelly moved to greet them.
It took only a second for me to think. Should I stay and watch or go and be introduced to
these two strangers?
Following Kelly’s lead, I left.
“Momma! I thought you told me I wasn’t a twin?” Kelly asked her mother.
“You’re not.” Mrs. Dratianos smiled at her daughter. “These are your cousins. Rather,
my cousins, and your second-cousins.” She turned to the girls. “Introduce yourselves, girls.”
The look-alike cousin looked up at us. “I’m Amanda Jo Applebee, and this is my sister
Stacy.”
“I’m Kelly Reading.” Kelly introduced. “That’s my boyfriend Bradley Allen.”
She came up to me. “Don’t be shy, Bradley. Say hello.”
There was something sad about Amanda Jo right away, only I never told Kelly what.
“Hello Amanda.” I squeaked out.
“Amazing.” Mr. Reading finally spoke after ten minutes of silence. “The resemblance
between Amanda and Kelly.” He whistled. “How will I ever tell them apart.”
“The same as you tell the twins apart, and Momma and Aunt Adarra.” Kelly said with a
grin. “It’ll take time, but you’ll do it. I’m sure.”
“With time.” Mrs. Dratianos sighed. She turned to Kelly. “If it would be okay, she can
share a room with you.”
Kelly grinned. “I’d be happy to, Momma.” She turned to Amanda, grabbing her
cousin’s hand. “Come on, I’ll show you to my room.”
“I knew you’d want first crack at her.” Mr. Reading joked. “Stacy, come with me. I’ll
show you to your own room.”
“My own room!” Stacy cried happily. “Wow! Cool!”
This left me standing there, alone with Mrs. Dratianos.
I’d known Adellandra Reading since I met Kelly back in the second grade. I knew she
was only in her late twenties, but she acted so much like a teenager sometimes. She’s a young
mother with a funny disposition and sense of humor. She’s usually the one to turn to if anyone
needed a shoulder to cry on. Since I grew up with her, she felt like my own mother, who I still
don’t know.
I remembered one day when I was very young, when Mrs. Dratianos and I bonded as
friends forever. That’s back when I was a brother to Kelly, but the moment still stuck in my
mind in the here and now.
Thinking about that, I gave her a hug and kiss on the cheek.
 Mrs. Dratianos laughed. “What was that for, Bradley Allen?”
“Because I happen to care a lot about you.” I told her. “You’re a wonderful person, Mrs.
Dratianos. Don’t ever change.”
She laughed again, putting an arm around my waist. “Don’t worry, Bradley. I won’t. I
haven’t in nearly ten years, and I’m not about to start now.” She nodded her head toward the
staircase. “Let’s see how they’re doing, shall we?”
I smiled, gesturing for her to go ahead of me. “Ladies first.”
Mrs. Dratianos laughed. “You could always make me smile, Bradley Allen.” She said.
“Always.”
“As long as Kelly and I are together, I always will.”
“I hope for many years of laughter, then.” Mrs. Dratianos supplied, heading up the stairs.
I hoped so myself. I didn’t want to lose Kelly for anything.

Steven Anthony Edwards

Age: 16 Position: Alternate Officer

STEVE’S BOMB SQUAD MYSTERIES:

The Bomb Squad Mysteries:

Beginning of Chapter One in: Case Entry:
#6: The Rock 'n Roll Mystery

Chapter One
Steve's Great Discovery

"Will you come on?" I asked my best friend impatiently, tapping my heel and rolling my
eyes.
We were spending a perfectly sunny Saturday afternoon in the Hill View Mall.
This guy's patience was growing thin.
"In a minute, Steve," Kelly replied. "I want to try on the blouse that I saw in Where The
Wild Things Are."
I sighed.
Kelly handed me a couple of her many shopping bags. She rushed into the shop that was
famous for weird, wild, and perfectly tacky clothes.
"Hurry up, will you?" I asked her, annoyed. "I don't want to miss dinner at your house."
"Okay, Okay," She laughed, shaking her head and smiling. "I can always come back
another day!"
I shook my head and laughed. "Girls." I replied sarcastically. "How you can go on
endless shopping trips in the mall and not get tired is beyond me."
Kelly rolled her blue eyes upward. "Tish-tosh, Steve." She replied, patting me on the
shoulder. "We're only human. Besides," she continued, "girls get tired too, you know. At least
this one does!"
Twenty minutes later, we stopped to get a bite to eat at The Eatery. When we had our
snacks, we sat down.
"It's a wonder that you don't explode eating all that food, Steve Edwards!” Kelly
exclaimed.
I looked at my tray, which had four hamburgers, large fries, medium drink, and two
cherry pies covering it. I glanced at my best friend, and exclaimed, "Hey, I'm a growing boy. So
sue me for wanting to eat!"
"That's just it, Edwards," Kelly complained, laughing. "You eat and eat and eat!"
"Hey, don't mock the making of perfection." I scolded her gently. "You'll hurt my pride."
"Man, Steve, have you got a long way to go before you ever reach perfection!" I heard
Cara Richardson’s familiar voice cry as she ran up to us with a small bag of food.
"Look who's talking." I exclaimed, smiling at Cara.
Kelly and Cara looked at each other and burst out laughing.
"Did you guys see the display for 'Win Free Tickets To The European Harmony Concert'
Contest?" Cara asked us. "It was in front of Boom Box." Boom Box was the largest music store
this side of Hill View.
"Not really," I said.
Kelly shook her head.
"Well, when you do, feel free to sign me up." Cara replied, smiling.
"You're a nut, Cara!" I cried laughing.
Cara and Kelly looked at each other then stuck their tongues out at me.
“My mistake. You’re both nuts!” I laughed.

* * *

Scene From: Case Entry #31:

When a Friendship Turns to Love

Kelly stood in front of locker number 152, hugging her books as she laughed at
something the girl next to her had told her.
My best friend certainly was beautiful when she laughed. I smiled in spite of myself,
slamming my locker shut.
"Hey!" Liz exclaimed, smacking me on the arm. "I wasn't finished yet!"
"Oh, uh, sorry Liz." I quickly apologized, not looking at my twin sister. Grasping my
book bag tight, I headed over to my best friend.
"Hi, Steve!" Kelly greeted, waving.
Smiling shyly, I waved back.
"Steve, I want you to meet Leah Thomas." Kelly introduced, smiling. She turned to her
new-found friend and said. "Leah, this is Steve Edwards, my personal best friend."
Leah looked me up and down, as if she was looking for a good time (sexily, that is).
"Nice to meet you, Steve." Leah replied sexily. "I've heard a lot about you from Kelly.
She says you’re quite a catch!"
I looked at my best friend. "Quite a catch? Kelly, what have you been telling this poor
girl?”
Kelly shrugged. "Steve and I have got to be going. See you in class tomorrow, Leah!"
 With that, Kelly and I headed toward the double doors leading outside.
"Want to walk home with me, Steve?" Kelly asked, smiling. "Bradley seems to have
ditched me for basketball practice. Imagine that -- he loves his sports more than me!"
"Sure, if you really want me to." I said, sneaking a glance at my best friend.
"While we're debating whether or not you want to walk home with me, take a look
around you." Kelly replied, laughing, falling in step with me.
She wrapped her arm in mine, and I took a look around me. I snickered to myself. Sure
enough, there we were, just the two of us, on our way home.
We walked along the sidewalk, side by side. Every now and then, the still silence would
be broken by Kelly's beautiful voice telling me about the strange and funny things that had
happened to her in school that day. Trouble was, I wasn't paying attention to any of it. Instead, I
was thinking about her, and smiling.
When we had reached our two houses a few minutes later, she said, "Thanks for walking
me home, Steve. I really love your company."
I stood in front of her, watching Kelly's bright blue-silver eyes sparkle in the springtime
sun as she spoke.
It was at that moment that I knew I was in love with my best friend.
"Is always a pleasure madam." I replied, smiling shyly (one of the things I never do).
I dared to do something I vowed never to do.
Bending down, I kissed Kelly gently on the lips.
When we parted, she and I stepped away from one another and stared at each other for a
few minutes, in awe.
Kelly looked down at the ground, her cheeks turning bright red. "If I didn't know any
better, I'd say you have a crush on me!"
I stared into outer space. "Yeah, Kelly, but it's more than just a crush." I admitted softly,
taking her hands in my own and staring into her eyes.
Kelly looked up at me, quiet. "You're in love with me." She threw her hair over her
shoulder, blushing. "I can't believe that you -- Steve Edwards -- are in love with me!"
"I guess you could say that." I supplied gently, and again, shyly.
Kelly stood there silent, probably speechless. "I don't know what to say, Steve. I never
thought that you and I would become this close to each other. Especially now." She tousled with
the small braid that hung in her face, not looking at me.
"Don't say anything, yet, Kelly." I told her, kissing her again. I headed in the direction of
my own house on the other side of hers. "Not until you know for sure that what your saying is
the right thing."
"Great advice. I couldn't have done better myself." Kelly replied softly, smiling. She
turned to go into her house. "By the way, I called an emergency meeting for six o'clock. Can I
count on you being there?"
I thought for a second, then, "As always, you can count on me, Kelly."
"Thanks, Steve." She said with a smile. She saluted. "See you later."
After she left, I heaved a romantic sigh. I raced inside only to find my sister and cousins
arguing over who has to start dinner.
"Hey, you guys. I'm home." I called to them, hoping to break the argument to a low roar.
I sighed. They didn't hear me, so I headed up to Adam's and my room to start on my homework.
Fortunately, the desk that I was working at was beside the window. Which was across
from Kelly's bedroom window. Which was separated by the tree that was between our two
houses. Which I used to climb into the window to talk, or for meetings, or to nose around.
I stared out the window, watching Kelly's every move.
Right now, she was practicing cheers for the pep rally tomorrow afternoon.
I watched closely as she went through the motions for "H-I Double-L View," which was
one of three pep cheers. I listened attentively to the cheer, gnawing on my pencil eraser.

"Gimme an H, I,
Double-L View!
We're gonna show 'em
Where, we're gonna take 'em to!
Go Hawks! Hill View Hawks!"

As far as I was concerned, she was both beautiful and talented. I feel that there isn't
anything that she can't, or won't, do. Kelly Reading is certainly one amazing eleventh-grader. I
am proud to have her as my personal best friend, even though sometimes her bright ideas can get
me, along with our friends, into a lot of trouble.
I have to admit that; when it comes to advice, taking charge, being a super sleuth, and
standing up to what you believe in; Kelly is the best around.
I sighed, smiling to myself. I could just see her and me as a couple...but then I'd have to
come back to reality -- Kelly Reading loves Bradley Allen, and not me -- Steve Edwards.
"Whom am I kidding?" I asked myself out loud, tapping my pencil impatiently on the
desk. I stared at my notebook and workbooks, and sighed. "She'd never be the least bit
romantically interested in me." I convinced myself.
At that, someone behind me burst out laughing. No doubt, when I turned around, there
was my nosy twin sister, Liz.
"What are you laughing at?" I asked her.
"You, big brother." Liz replied between giggles. Liz is four minutes younger than I am,
but it sometimes felt like four years. "If you're losing your marbles, than I must be in trouble,
too."
"Oh, Liz." I started. "You're not in trouble at all. You've already lost it!"
I sat next to my sister on my bed.
"Seriously, though. What's goin' on that you have to talk to yourself?" She retorted good-
naturedly. "Has my astute and overbearing, self-assured, sarcastic, rude, nosy, annoying, and
devastatingly handsome, slightly older brother finally gone over the deep end?"
I sighed again.
"That bad, huh?" She asked, putting her hand on my shoulder.
"Your a girl." I began, trying to think of what exactly to say.
"Duh." Liz retorted sarcastically.
"Liz." I scolded, frowning.
"Okay, I'll stop. Go on, Steve."
I tried again. "You know Kelly better than I do, right?"
"I don't understand."
"From all those boring and long Hawkettes' practices. Am I right?"
"Yeah, why?"
"Well, I was wondering something."
"What?"
 "Well, do you think Kelly would go out with me? On a date?"
Liz burst out in giggles. "I doubt it, bro. You know how Kelly loves Bradley -- and vice-
versa." Liz calmed down and 'got serious' before saying, "What would Bradley say if he knew
that his girlfriend is a two-timer, with one of his best-friends from the club? How do you think
he'd feel?"
I stared at my sister for a moment, and shrugged. "Pretty bad, I think."
"Exactly." Liz whispered, patting me on the shoulder and rising. "Did that help?"
"Enough." I told her simply, smiling. I hugged her. "Thanks, Liz."
"Glad I could help." She replied, shaking her head and leaving. "I think."

Another scene:
“I’ve heard of breaking out of school,” I cried sarcastically as I helped Kelly slide
through the now-open window. “But breaking in? Have you just recently lost it, or have you
always been this bonkers?”
I heard a thump from inside and Kelly shushed me. “We have to be quiet.” She told
me. “Or else someone will see us and call the police.”
“Why are we here, anyway?” I asked after jumping through the window myself. I
brushed off.
“To get the computer passcodes.” Kelly explained, talking softly. “Ms. Finley, Mr.
Anderson’s secretary, always keeps them in her desk drawer.”
I shook my head as I followed her to the main office. “My best friend is a loony toon!” I
cried, throwing up my hands in aspiration. “I’d never thought I’d have to say this, Kelly, but you
are too weird for me.”
“Will you shut up already, Steve?” Kelly scolded me.
We reached the doorknob to Mr. Anderson’s private office where the codes were kept.
Kelly tried the door, but frowned when she saw it was locked.
“Oh, well. Too bad.” I said, turning to leave. “I guess we have to go back home.”
“Not so fast, Steve Edwards!” Kelly cried. She stopped me, holding me back. She shook
her head. “No way are we giving up now!” She paused, pointing. “Watch – and learn.”
Uh-oh, I thought. Whenever she says that, there’s bound to be some trouble. She
reached into her back-pack and pulled out her student ID card. She slipped it in the crease
between the wall and the door, and stared at it.
I rolled my eyes. “I should have known.” I muttered as I watched her open the door.
“It’s like the American Express card – never leave home without it.” I quipped in a comedic
tone.
Kelly smiled at me as if to say “I told you so!” She pushed the office door open,
revealing its many secrets. “That computer passcode should be around here somewhere.” Kelly
said, half to herself, half to no one.
“May I ask a quick question?” I asked curiously.
“Sure.” She told me, sifting though Mr. Anderson’s desk.
“Why am I here with you?”
“To keep an eagle-eye and ear out for anyone.” She commanded in what we called her
“President’s Voice.”
I playfully saluted and sauntered over to my position by the doorway. I looked from side
to side several times, my hands in my pockets. I never really liked being a pawn in her
sometimes-dangerous schemes, but I often put up with it because she was my best friend. I
glanced out the door and repeated what I had done before.
Only this time, I saw a shadow coming this way.
I turned to Kelly. “Hurry up, Kelly,” I whispered. “I see someone coming this way!”
She grabbed her notebook and back-pack and faster than anything, we rushed out of there
– in the opposite direction.
We reached outside a couple minutes later. “Did you . . . get them?” I panted doubled
over as I was trying to catch my breath.
She puffed, but nodded enthusiastically, smiling.
We heard footsteps racing toward us in the dark.
I quickly thought of something. Grabbing her waist, I bent down to kiss her.
We didn’t part until we were sure the footsteps were gone for good.
Kelly and I stared at each other for a moment. Touching her lips, she whispered softly.
“Wow, what was that for?”
I shrugged. God, she was beautiful, I thought. “I don’t know, but it sure felt good.
Don’t you think?”
Kelly smiled. “Yeah.” She said softly. “It felt great.”
“In that case, you wouldn’t mind this.” I leaned over and gave her another luxurious kiss.
We pulled apart and stared into each other’s eyes. I held her chin. “Even in the dark,
you’re the most beautiful girl I know.” I complimented her.
Kelly blushed. “Thanks.” She looked at her watch and grabbed my hand. “Come on,
we’ve got to get back.”
We hopped on our bikes and headed in the direction of home.

Scene From: Case Entry:

# 46 Steve and the Battle of the Sexes:
The HVH Marriage Project

"Be sure to get with your spouse before the pep-and-assessment assembly tomorrow
afternoon." Mr. Greene droned on. And on. And on.
We were saved a moment later by the bell bonging.
"Whaaat!?" I heard most people screech when hey heard who their partners were when
Mr. Greene handed us the sheets of paper as we left the room.
"I can't believe it!" Kelly exclaimed when she found herself by my side. "I have to be
married to 'The Beast!'" She looked at me, amazement and horror in her eyes and voice. "What
am I going to do, Steve? I was hoping for Bradley, or you even! But never in a million years was
I wishing for Richie Charmichael! What am I going to do?"
I winced. "First thing you should do Kelly is chill out. Second, take a few deep breaths
before you speak. And last, you've got a brain -- use it!" I tried to explain to her, taking a bite out
of my apple. "You've thought yourself out of more complicated situations before -- right?"
"Yeah, but I've already done everything I've tried to come up with." Kelly sighed,
slumping down in her seat. "No luck. At least no good luck."
"I see." I replied simply.
"You see what?" Somebody asked from behind us. Cara, no doubt.
"Not that kind of see, Cara," Kelly told her. "He understood what I was talking about.
That's all."
 "Oh." Cara said. She sat down, nodded a quick hello to everyone, then turned again to
Kelly. "Did you hear whom I got paired up with?"
"No. Who?" Kelly asked.
"Not Johnny Kincaid, I hope." I interjected.
"No way, thank you very much!" Cara cried. Recently, she had an almost tragic run-in
with both Johnny and Richie, two ringleaders of a Hill View High gang who call themselves The
Deadly Dragons. The Deadly Dragons are made up of the roughest and toughest guys in school.
"A little closer to home." Cara continued with an enthusiastic smile, her eyes lit up like stars. "A
lot closer, in fact."
Kelly and I looked at each other, and said at the same time, "Who?"
"Adam Smythe!" she cried happily.
"At least the teachers decided to keep the Bomb Squad together." I reasoned, glancing at
my cousin, who was blushing from ear to ear.
"Not so fast, Steve." Cara interrupted me. "There's a rumor going around that a once hot
couple has just gotten the chance to rekindle an old and long-forgotten flame."
"What are you talking about?" I asked. I looked at Kelly, who stared at her lap with a tear
forming in her eye.
"It's only a rumor, Kelly." Cara comforted her best friend, hugging Kelly's shoulders.
"Nothing to get all hyped up about." She turned to me. "Right Steve?"
"I can't answer." I supplied, watching Cara’s desperate glance.
"Why not?"
"How can I answer when I don't even know who you're talking about?!" Yours truly
exclaimed.
"Duh, Steve. Cara's talking about Bradley and Veronica Whitehead!" Liz exclaimed,
scooting in beside me. She looked at Kelly and continued. "Besides, Kelly. It's only a rumor."
"You mean, Bradley really isn't paired up on this stupid project with his ex-girlfriend
from Bayside Middle School?" KC asked Liz.
"Well, that part of the rumor is true, you guys." Adam spoke up quietly.
"Is the other part true?" I asked my twin. "About two old flames growing red-hot for each
other?"
Before Liz could say anything in return, Kelly shot up from her seat, her face quickly
showering with tears. "Just shut up, you guys! Shut up!"
With that outburst, she fled the lunchroom, nearly ramming into Allison.
When Allison came up to the table minutes later, she immediately looked around at our
solemn faces. "Did I miss anything?" For the next few minutes, we filled her in on what
happened. "Oh my dangles!" She replied when we were through. "How'd she take it? Is she
going to be all right?"
"She'll be fine by the end of the day, I assure you." Cara replied. She added under her
breath, "I hope."
"Then she'll probably get all worked up again today at the meeting." KC cried.
"That's right. She called a meeting to discuss how we're going to handle the Marriage
Project." I explained to my twin, who wasn't a member of the club yet. "Which means one of two
things."
"Either the meeting will be filled with silence and tension," Adam said.
"Or it will be filled with quarreling, among other things." Cara supplied.
"Personally, I prefer neither. I don't like it when our personal problems get in the way of
our detecting. It doesn't seem fair, or right for that matter." Bradley replied, sitting down.
"Besides what I overheard about the meeting, what's up?" The other members and I looked at
each other, each wanting another to break the news. "Where's Kelly?" Bradley asked, taking a
sheet of paper and a pen out of his back pocket.
"Where's Kelly?" I repeated nervously, glancing around the table.
"Yeah, Steve. Where is she?"
Cara piped up quickly with, "She went home, Bradley."
"Why?"
"She wasn't feeling well." KC replied, covering up. KC tapped her temple with a finger.
"Bad headache."
Bradley started to say something but his words seemed to escape him. "What, exactly, is
going on here?"
"Exactly?" Cara asked, looking guilty. I knew she was going to blow it.
"Exactly." Bradley replied, folding his arms. He stared at her in the eyes, which I knew
had some impact on Cara. Cara turns to jell-o and loses it.
"It all started with the Marriage Project you see Kelly heard that you and Veronica were
going to be paired up together and she feels that she doesn't want to lose you to your old
girlfriend from a long time ago and she also didn't want to hurt you by making you do something
you don't want to do so when she heard the latest from the Hill View High grapevine she just
burst out in tears but that was a long time ago and we haven't seen her since." Cara replied
quickly, all in one breath.
Whew!
"Oh. I see." Bradley replied, looking at the ground. "I think."
When it came to matters of the heart, I think I'd need a heart transplant. Because I don't
think I'd be able to handle the pressure and the constant rumors. Then again, I'd have to get used
to it -- I had Lillian Straus for a partner and pretend-spouse.
Major overkill. Most definitely.
Bradley stood up and said quietly, "I'll see you at the meeting, everybody. Bye."
With that, he sadly left the table with his hands in his pockets, staring down at the ground
as he walked.
I stood up and started to follow him.
Obviously he noticed that he was being followed and stopped. "Go away Steve. I want to
be alone." He said sadly, without turning around..
I put a hand on my friend's shoulder.
"There's no escape from your best friends, Bradley, so 'fess up. What's buggin' ya?" I
said, looking at him with concern.
"There's nothing 'bugging' me Steve, all right!" Bradley cried, pulling away from my
grasp.
"Come on, man. It's me you're talking to -- Steve." I cried. "I wouldn't want one of my
best friends to be mad at me without my knowledge." Bradley stared at me, confused. I
shrugged. "So that didn't make any sense. But you understand where I'm goin', right?"
By then, we had reached the courtyard, and our favorite table. He sat down. "I guess, but
what does this have to do with Kelly?"
I thought for a minute. "Is that what this is all about? Kelly?"
"Yeah, Steve." He nodded. "I love her so much, it hurts. I don't want to lose her to him."
I glanced at Bradley and said softly, "Him whom?"
 "You know who." He replied. "Richie Charmichael. Her partner for this stupid project."
I didn't know what to say. Usually I'd give him advice to help him with his problems. But
this time, I couldn't think of a thing to say. Then I thought of something. "Let me put it this way,
bud." I started. "Do you remember when I tried to get Kelly to fall in love with me?"
Bradley stared at me, and laughed nervously. "Yeah, why?"
"You made up then, and, if you survive the next month, you'll make up later." I
explained. "I'm sure of it."
"You can never be sure of anything, Steve." He said quietly.
"Oh, yeah? Why's that?"
"Because you just don't, okay!" He shouted fiercely in my face. "Not when it comes to
matters of love. And definitely not with Kelly!"
"Least we forget, I've known Kelly a lot longer than you have." I said, just as fierce, yet
trying to stay calm. "She's my best friend. I know how much she cares about the people she loves
-- even you! No -- especially you!"
He started to say something, but decided against it. "I love her, Steve." He said softly,
after calming down. He looked at the ground, then back at me. "I don't want to lose the only girl
that has loved me for whom I am."
"It's true. She loves you for whom you are." I told him. "Do you want to know the truth? I
envy you for that."
"For what? For being a good boyfriend to her?" He asked, staring at me.
"No, a great boyfriend and a terrific friend." I said softly. "I've never seen Kelly so happy
in my life. You're the only one she loves. Or ever love."
"Which brings us back to where this little argument all began." Bradley sighed. "We all
know that whatever Richie wants, Richie gets. No matter who he has to hurt to get there."
"Damn right, Allen!" We heard someone growl viciously. "And don't you ever forget it!"
I stared long and hard at Richie Charmichael. Then at Bradley.
"Beat it, Charmichael." Bradley growled.
Richie just stood there, glaring at Bradley. I stood back.
"You heard me, Richard. Get lost!" Bradley raised his voice to the Beast. The Beast was
our nickname for Richie.
"Shut up before I have to kick your ass here and now." Richie replied fiercely.
I swear, he's always threatening to kick people's asses. It's as if he's asking for trouble.
Bradley rose from his seat to face the Beast. "You wouldn't dare."
"You're right, I wouldn't dare. I'm not like Arianrhod King, who takes on dares at the
drop of a hat." Richie said sarcastically, laughing at his own joke.
"You keep her out of it." I supplied, standing beside Bradley. Letting him know that he's
not alone.
"This is between the two of us." Bradley pointed out. "For the heart of a certain girl,
whom I happen to love."
"And whom you'll happen to lose once I get her." Richie said calmly, in his usual Beastly
manner.
"What makes you think that you'll 'get' her, so to speak?" Bradley challenged. "Kelly
doesn't fall in love at the 'drop of the hat.' She's not you."
"Maybe not, Dork-boy. But I happen to know how much she'll love me once I put the old
Charmichael charm on her." Richie argued vainly.
"You've got as much charm as an old shoe, Charmichael." I supplied sarcastically. "You
don't have a chance with my best friend."
"If you had any brain cells left in that tiny mind of yours," Bradley began, "you'd leave us
alone and get on with your boring life."
"You're right, dweebs. Why should I waste my time and energy on the trash when I can
have the treasure?" Richie replied sarcastically, turning to leave. "See ya, suckers!"
As soon as he left, Bradley sat down and sighed. He turned to me and smiled in spite of
his present lousy mood. "Thanks, buddy."
I waved my hand at him and replied humorously in a fake hillbilly accent, "Aw, shucks.
It was nuttin.' I always like to make nice with the natives."
He laughed. "Well friend. It's always nice to know that y'all hillbillies are to make nice
with folks like me." He joked in a fake southern accent, patting me on the back.
"Now that's the Bradley Allen that we all know and love!" I exclaimed, laughing. "Let's
get back to the table before lunch is over!"
Before I could say anything else, he stopped in his tracks, and scowled. "Where did Kelly
run off to anyway?" He asked, preoccupied.
"Beats me." I replied, shrugging. Then I thought of something, "No --Wait. I think I know
where she might be. Follow me!"
Shrugging, he sighed. "Whatever."
He and I ran to the only spot I could think of where Kelly could be -- her "thinking spot"
behind the football stadium. There I spotted her a while later. "Kelly!" Bradley and I yelled.
She didn't or couldn't hear us. Either that, or she chose not to. How sad.

Case Entry:
#58: Steve the Cheerleader

"I bet you ten dollars I know exactly what you're thinking," Kelly, my best friend
exclaimed to me. "Humor me, Kelly. What am I thinking?"
"Your thinking of quiting before you completely humiliate yourself in front of your
friends and enemies. In front of the judges." Kelly supplied. She and I, along with Miranda,
Lesal, Adam, and the rest of the Bomb Squad were in the auditorium of Hill View High, waiting
for auditions to begin.
Auditions to be part of the next Hill View High Hawkettes Junior Squad. Auditions that
Kelly will never forget! I looked at her, with a mischievous grin on my lips. "Never." I couldn't
wait until I showed Kelly that I could, too cheer. Never mind the fact I am a guy, and guys aren't
allowed on the cheering squad. Just wait.
That's when Coach Pemberton, of the Junior Varsity Squads (Freshman and Sophomore
Hawkettes), called my name. And so was my cue.
"Good luck, Steve!" I heard Miranda's voice behind me.
"We know you need plenty of it!" Kelly and Cara’s voices cried in unison.
I rolled my eyes at them.
"Excuse me, but have you seen Stephanie Edwards around?" One of the Judges asked me
as I stepped up to the tables. "She and her twin, Liz, are up next."
Rolling my eyes, I nodded. "That's me. I am Steve." I outstretched my hand for her to
shake, but she stared at it a moment. I still didn’t know why I let Liz talk me into signing up as a
girl.
 She looked at me strangely, then up and down, as if something were wrong with me.
"Boys aren't allowed while the girls are auditioning."
"But I'm here to try-out for the Hawkettes -- Junior Squad." I told her.
She was speechless.
"Please, Coach." I heard Liz plead, coming up behind me. "He's my brother, and he'd
really be an asset to the Squad. Let him try, at least."
"Liz," Coach warned.
"You'll make an exception for our cousin Adam, being the school mascot and all, but you
won't have enough sense to let my own twin try out?"
"Come on Coach," Kelly begged.
"Have a heart." Cara said after her.
I couldn't believe it! My friends were sticking behind me in my decision to be a
cheerleader! Didn’t they think I was nuts?
Coach sighed, then laughed. "Okay, Edwards. Liz and Steve, follow me. You'll be
trying out with H-I-Double-L View, okay?"
"As for the rest of you, shoo!" Coach replied. "Rules are rules, no matter who's playing
the game."
Liz smiled at me. She was being supportive. I smiled back.
I followed my twin to the middle of the old gym, the smallest in school. In front of me
was the judges' tables. All three of them stared back, anticipating our cheers.
Here goes it, I thought to myself. I heard another voice say in my mind, I know you can
do it, Steve. Good luck. To my utter surprise, it was Kelly.
Liz nodded to me, letting me know I could start anytime I was ready. Gulping and taking
a deep, relaxing breath, I nodded back.

Adam Thelius Smith

Age: 15 Position: Junior Officer

ADAM’S BOMB SQUAD MYSTERIES:

Beginning of Case Entry:

#13 "Bad Luck" Adam

Prologue
Adam "the Joker" Smith

I was never any good at writing, especially when it came to telling stories. I'm not used to
being the star, or the center of attention. I'm just a shy, non-self-assured, lowly, fourteen-year-old
guy who wears coke-bottle eye-glasses and has no real style -- or flair -- for clothes, just my
own. In other words, I'm a nerd.
Not just an ordinary nerd, mind you. I'm a nerd with a sense of humor. Whenever I'm put
on-the-spot, or whenever there's a chance, I quip up with some sarcastic remark. (That's just a
cover for the embarrassment that my cousins, friends, enemies, and teachers give me.)
I still haven't told you who "I" am. I am Adam Thelius Smith. I'm fourteen-years-old (but
then, you already knew that), a freshman at Hill View High, (which is located in Hill View,
Michigan) and I have many best friends, whom I'll tell you about later. I live with my sister, Sam
(She's eleven), my cousins (who are twins and are fifteen), Steve and Liz, and my Aunt Alicia
and Uncle Corwin Edwards.
The story behind this particular arrangement is kind-of strange -- like me. When I was in
middle school, and Sam was in fourth-grade, my teachers and parents in Connecticut thought that
my sister and I needed a change of pace, of scenery. So they had Sam's and my records sent to
Hill View Horizon Woods School, had us pack up all of our belongings, and sent us to Hill
View. At the time, Cassandra, Steve and Liz's older sister, had just graduated from HVH (Hill
View High) and was accepted to a special writer's college. Anyway, we ended up swapping
lives: She would live with her Uncle Stewart and Auntie Ruth-Anne (my parents) in a small town
called Deverough, and Sam and I would live with Cassie's parents, my Aunt Alicia and Uncle
Corwin Edwards.
On to my friends. First --
"Adam! Adam!" Someone interrupted my thoughts. I shake my head, coming out of my
daydream, only to see Steve, Liz, Kelly Reading, Bradley Allen, and Peter Valentine staring at
me with smiles. It was Steve who spoke. "Are you coming, or not?" My cousin asked me.
We were standing by our lockers after class, and lunchtime had just begun. Only, I wasn't
paying attention.
"Are you?" Steve repeated.
I nodded, following my fellow Bomb Squad Club members to the HVH cafeteria
lunchroom. "I just need to find somebody first." I told him, repositioning my glasses. I patted my
cousin on the shoulder. "Save me my seat at the Stand. Okay, cuz?"
He nodded, then turned toward Liz, Kelly (his best friend), Bradley (Kelly's boyfriend),
and Peter (my best friend), and said, "Come on. I can't wait to see what the mystery meat looks
like today."
I laughed, and so did they. I started to walk toward the office, but was stopped.
"Hey, Adam!" Somebody yelled from across the hall. When I turned, I saw Josh
Stevenson, one of my best friends waving at me and weaving through the mass of students.
When he reached me, he asked, "What's up? Where're you going?"
I smiled. "Which question do you want me to answer first?"
He laughed, "'What's up?'"
"Not much. In fact -- " I started to say.
But Josh interrupted me. "Did you know that Friday, the Thirteenth is coming up?"
"That's what I was trying to say." I told him sternly, with a semi-smile. "Every time that
dreadful day comes along in my life, I'm bad luck."
Josh looked at me, bewildered. "How can you say something like that about yourself?"
"Easy. I guess I'm supersticious, that's all." I answered sarcastically.
"Ouch." He kidded, laughing. "I gotta go. Meet you at the Stand, okay?"
I nodded. "Okay."

Beginning of: Case Entry: #25

Adam and 2 Hot 4 U

"Watch this, guys!" I exclaimed to my best friends, who were gathered around me at the
make-shaft booth at The Clubhouse, a famous meeting place for all high-school teenagers.
 I sat on top of the table, where a place had been cleared. "I'm going to balance this spoon
on my nose -- without the assistance of glasses." I explained, taking my coke-bottle eyeglasses
off. I handed them to Peter and said, "If you would be so kind, Peter."
"Are you serious, Adam?" Kelly asked, giggling.
"Yeah, cuz." Steve cried sarcastically, "This isn't a very original stunt, you know. Why
don't you just give up before you make a complete fool out of yourself?"
I held the spoon up in the air, for all to see. "Ah, touche my dear associates."
"I've heard of your ordinary, every-day, stupid pranks, Smythe," I heard Josh exclaim.
"But this time, I think you've lost it."
"I thought you'd never even think of sinking the already sunk stunt, Adam," KC replied,
giggling, her almond-shaped eyes sparkling.
I rolled my eyes at them all, continuing to pull off the perfect prank.
"Though it has been done before by yourself, you are still going through with it, Adam?"
Peter replied seriously, trying to hide a tiny smile.
I placed the spoon on the tip of my nose and, being extra careful, I released my grip. "Ta-
da!" I cried, smiling, holding my arms open wide.
"Good job, buddy," I heard Bradley exclaim, patting me on the back. This forced the
plastic spoon to fall off my nose and onto the floor.
"Hey, Allen!" I cried in mock-hatred. "Jerk from Mars!"
"Yeah, whadda ya want?" He said sarcastically, acting like a jock who caught himself a
nerd to pick on.
"N-n-n-n-nothing." I stammered, holding my hands up in mock-surrender and bursting
out in laughter. "I didn't mean to - honest!"
"Grrr." Bradley growled, looking serious, but acting silly. He sat down beside his
girlfriend and smiled, sticking his toungue out at me.
"Real mature, Bradley!" I cried, crossing my eyes.
The table shook with hysterical laughter as I put my glasses back on. I smiled, glancing
around the table at my best friends.
Kelly Reading and Bradley Allen, the perfect couple of Hill View High, shared a
milkshake, with Bradley's arm around Kelly's shoulders.
Krysti Farthey giggled as KC (otherwise known as Kendra Clark), her best friend,
whispered something in her ear.
Cara and Steve Edwards, Kelly's best friends and my cousin (Steve) conversed, with Cara
rolling her eyes at only she-knows-what.
Lesal DeRose and Miranda English were signing and laughing at each other.
Peter Valentine, my best friend, had his nose in a book, as usual, while he scarfed down
French fries.
Kymm and Carrie Parker, the identical trouble-makers of the club, were having a staring
contest.
Allison Watson flipped through the latest music magazine.
Josh Stevenson, Bradley's best friend, just sat there, across from Kelly and Bradley,
staring into space.
I sighed. Crazy as they may be, I still loved my best friends.
I stood up and retrieved a quarter from my pocket. "Any requests for Mr. Juke-Box?" I
asked my friends, flipping the coin in the air.
"Not from this peanut gallory!" I heard them all exclaim at the same time.
 "Well then. How about a little accopella from your favorite gals and fellas?" I asked
hopefully, a few minutes later.
"Come on, Adam." Krysti replied, rolling her blue eyes upward. "You know we were just
playing around at the meeting."
"Yeah, Adam." Kelly interjected. "Nobody would want to hear us sing -- especially
accopella."
"Please?" I pleaded, giving them the puppy-dog Look.
They looked at each other, then to me.
"Why not?" Miranda asked, smiling. "What do we have to lose?"
"Okay." They agreed.
"What will we sing?" Lesal asked, pulling her almost-black hair into a ponytail, to get it
out of her face.
"How about 'The Kids From Santa Fe'?" I suggested. That song was the only one that we
knew as a team. Allison wrote the jazzy-type song and taught it to us.
"Why not?" Allie asked, gleaming. She turned to the group and gave us our cues. "And it
goes a little somethin' like this - hit it!"
Within a few minutes, the whole place was booming with music, which was either
banging on tables with hands, voices ringing long, and loud, along with different mouth sounds.

"We're the kids from Santa Fe,

"And that's where we're gonna stay
"Neither here or there can make us move
"So let's hype it, and get into the groove!"

It sounded as if a flock of canaries clashing with a pack of street-cats. All in all, it

sounded like music. Crazy, I know, but true. I loved being with my best friends.
When the song was over, every customer in the building, mostly kids from Hill View
High and Bayside High, cheered loudly, clapping their hands.
"Encore!" somebody in the way back of the building shouted, starting the chant.
"Alas, we have no more." Kelly exclaimed, standing up and bowing her head
dramatically. Then, sarcastically, she saluted, exclaiming, "See Ya!"
The building shook as we burst out in hysterical laughter.
* * * * *
The next day at school, the halls were booming with laughter and excitement of the
incident at the diner.
"I heard what you-all did at the Clubhouse yesterday." Natasha Martinova replied as she
and I walked to math class. "I heard you even impressed Mr. Marshall, the manager."
"Really, Tasha?" I asked, pushing my glasses further up on my nose as I sat down. "What
did you think? I mean I, uh, saw you there with the Unicorns."
"Well, Adam." Tasha replied before turning to Lillian Straus, another one of the snobs of
HVH. "Let me put it this way. I have to say it took guts -- and plenty of 'em."
"You've got to admit, cuz." Liz replied from behind me. "The whole thing was pretty
original."
I blushed. "I guess so, Liz."
"Whatever made you think of singin' accopello, dork?" Brock Cavanagh's voice
bellowed.
 "Even I had to admit; when I saw you, or heard you rather, I couldn't believe how cool
you were." Jessica Wilson's confident voice commented.
"For once, Jess and I agree on something!" My cousin Liz was Jessica's best friend, said
sincerely with a smile. “You should start a band or something."
"I couldn't possibly break up this little jamboree folks, but class has begun," Mr.
Stevenson said.
Saved by the broad monotones of our math teacher.
"Before we get to work, Adam," Liz whispered, "Can I ask you something?"
I shrugged. "Sure, Liz. Anything for my favorite female-cousin."
"Are you embarrassed?"
I nodded slightly. My cousins knew me better than I knew myself sometimes. "How'd
you know?"
"I knew because," She started, smiling, "when you're embarrassed, your ears grow a
beautiful shade of bright red!"
I groaned, turning to face the head of the class. I covered my ears with my hands, and
sighed.

From: #19: Adam's Science Fair Mystery

"Who could've done this to you, Adam!" Miranda exclaimed. "This is terrible."
I looked around in vain. I didn't know what to say to her, since I had no idea who did
this. My locker was trashed with graffiti, all my notes on the project were ripped and destroyed,
and the locker door was permanently ajar.
"I don't know, Mandy." I told her. "But whoever it is, I'm sure we'll be able to catch
them."
"What makes you say that, cuz?" Steve asked me. "Everything is ruined. Whoever did
this is probably long gone by now."
"Not only that," Lesal began, "But they might be in the Fair as well. You do have some
stiff competition, you know."
I groaned. "Don't remind me."
 Kirsten “Krysti” Farthay
Age: 16 Position: Junior Officer

Case Entry: #8 (old#2)

Krysti’s Hollywood Murder Mystery

THE MURDER MYSTERY

"DAYS OF LOVE AND HATRED"
The tough teens of the Bomb Squad are back and better prepared for mystery -- which sometimes
leads to trouble. Especially when a beautiful, lovable, soap-opera actress is involved. When they
fly to California to investigate, they find out it's too late -- Ms. Simone Smithson has been
mysteriously murdered!
Where the suspects' list is endless, and a cold-blooded killer is running loose, a soap-opera
murder is slowly turning into a deadly game of cat-and-mouse. Cara Richardson thinks that the
killer is closer than they think. Is she right? Will the talented teen-sleuths find out before it's too
late...For them?

Special Excerpt from:

The Bomb Squad Mysteries:
Case Entry:#8: Krysti’s Hollywood Murder Mystery:

KC and I knocked on Simone's dressing-room door, and silence was the reply. KC tried
the knob, which turned easily, so we opened it.
"Miss Smithson?" I called out into the air. When there wasn't any answer, we walked in. I
gasped when I saw Simone Smithson lying on the ground, face down, a knife in her back with a
note attached to it.
KC screamed, her eyes wide with terror. Neither she or I had ever seen a murdered (or
dead) body before.
Immediately, Kelly, Cara, Bradley, and Steve barged in.
"What happened, Krysti?" Kelly asked as she took the Club Notebook and a pen out, her
hand poised over it.
"We heard a scream." Cara said softly.
Before either KC or I could explain, Kelly glanced at the floor. "Oh, boy." she muttered.
A moment later, Mr. Allen Campbell walked in the door, asking the same question that
Kelly asked. He then saw the body lying on the floor. "Simone Smithson! She has been –
murdered!" He cries, striding over to Simone's limp body.
I saw Bradley take a pair of tweezers from his Detecting Kit in his back-pack, along with
a plastic evidence bag. He handed them to Kelly, who was knelt over to the once beautiful
actress.
Kelly turned to Mr. Campbell and mumbled, "Murder. Just as I suspected. And they left a
note."
"Woah," Steve gasped, staring at Kelly.
"'Woah' is right, Steve." Kelly replied, barely looking at her best friend. Most of her
attention was toward the note.
"The note reads:
 'Now that Annie is our of my way,
Watch your backs, "Days" people,
and be aware of the unexpected.
You might be next!'”

I held my breath.
I read it over her shoulder then replied, “It’s in newspaper-clippings. If that doesn't scare
people, then I don't – "
My words were cut off when I heard a thump. Turning around, I gasped. Mr. Campbell
had fainted!
Oh, boy.
Kelly closed her eyes. I didn’t know what she was doing, but she announced a second
later. “She’s not dead, yet.”
“KC, do you know CPR?” Kelly asked her.
“No, don’t touch anything, KC.” Bradley instructed. “Get some help.”
She nodded, but said. “I’ll get uncle Paul.”
“Good idea,” Cara finally spoke up, sneaking a glance at Kelly.
They were hiding something from me – I could tell.
Bradley, being careful not to touch anything, used the nearest phone to call an
ambulance.
“Boy, are the media going to have a field day with this.” I said with a light laugh,
thinking of Gary Winters, my ‘new’ reporter friend.
I walked over to Cara, Kelly, Steve, and Bradley, who were whispering.
“Did you sense anything, Kel?” Bradley asked her.
She never got the chance to answer. Her gaze was on mine. She quickly looked at the
small group, then to me. “Come on over, Krys. We have a lot of explaining to do.”
A paramedic came up to us and asked. “Do either of you kids know what happened?”
“I knocked on the door, only to find out it was opened.” I replied.
“Simone told us she always locks it when she’s not in it.” Kelly said. “Therefore, I
believe this was a break-in job as well as a possible homicide.”
The paramedic laughed. “You’ve been reading too many mysteries, kid.”
“We’re trained detectives.” I replied.
“I understand why you wouldn’t believe us, Mr...” Kelly looked at the badge, “Curtis.
We may be young, but we’ve helped solve a lot of cases in our hometown, Hill View,
Michigan.”
“You don’t have to explain anything to me. Just the police.” Mr. Curtis smiled. He
turned and pointed to the few new officers in the room.
KC’s uncle Paul was there, talking to one of them. He looked frantic, but followed the
paramedics when they took Simone away on a stretcher.
Mr. Curtis tipped his hat. “Thanks for nothing.”
He strode off.
I looked at Kelly, who was staring into space, thinking.
“What’s up?” I asked her, folding my arms.
She shook out of her daze. “Oh, sorry, Krys. I was just thinking.”
“We could see that.” Steve said sarcastically. “What about?”
“That paramedic. At first, I sensed kindness, then – a slight anger.”
 Sense? What was she talking about?
She saw my confused look, but took a breath before beginning. “I’m a Mystic.
Basically, that means I can read minds with telepathy, see the future with premonition, and read
the past with clairvoyance.”
“As in our second case, right?” I asked her, thinking back to what I’d read in the Crime
Computer. “When KC and I were trapped with the ogres in Catz Mansion.”
Kelly nodded her head.
Bradley spoke up. “Do you think she should know about this, Kel? I mean, whatever
you sense must be pretty intense.”
“Positive, Bradley.” Kelly replied. “She’s one of us.”
He seemed to accept her short explanation.
“What does that have to do with Mr. Curtis?” I asked, getting back to the subject.
She sighed.
“Quit sighing and tell me already!” I cried, staring at her.
“Okay. Along with those basic powers, I can also sense deep feelings and emotions with
Empathy.”
“Empathy? Isn’t that where you understand someone’s reasons for doing stuff?” I asked
her, just to be sure.
“Good definition, Krys.” Kelly replied. “But not in this case. As I said, I could sense
kindness with Mr. Curtis until he left, to which I felt a slight anger.”
I hated her long-winded explanations. I put my hands on my hips and cried. “Get on
with it.”
“What would he feel angry about?” Bradley asked her.
She shrugged. “Maybe for us not telling him what he wanted to know.”
I looked away, not really understanding what she was saying. My eyes hit the spot where
Simone had been laying.
I walked over to it and paced around it, trying to figure out just what happened.
“Getting back to Simone’s attempted homicide.” Bradley found himself by my side, as
did the others. “What exactly happened just now?”
“That’s what I’d like to know.” I was in a daze, but looked at my friends.
Bradley, Cara, Kelly, Steve, and I stared at each other, probably thinking the same thing.
Our vacation from mysteries was over. It was now time to crack the Hollywood murder
mystery.
Danger was soon to be our middle name.

Bomb Squad Mysteries: Case Entries:

#22 Krysti and the Mysterious Clock

Krysti’s Crush
Ever since the club began, Krysti Farthay has been noticing something about herself she’s not
able to understand. Steven Edwards, the Alternate officer of the Bomb Squad, where she’s a
Junior Officer, has become more than a friend to Krysti. She’s confused. Is she, the sporty
Krysti Farthay, in love? Her thoughts of the matter are put on hold when she, KC, Devin, and
Steve come across a clock in her attic. It only chimes at midnight. What’s with that? While
talking it over with KC, she finds out a few things that she never really realized about herself.
She’s growing up, and scared to bits. Will Krysti be able to solve her own private mystery,
 along with the mysterious clock?

Scene From: Case Entry:

#22: Krysti and the Mysterious Clock

I stood in front of the mirror, staring at my reflection. What was I going to do? I was so
confused!
KC came over, as promised, before she had to go to Cara’s.
“You look stunning, Krys.” She said.
“I don’t want to look stunning.” I grumbled. “I want to look like me again.”
“Face it, Krysti. You’re growing up, and you don’t like it.” KC giggled. “Relax, you’re
going through puberty.”
“What’s that?”
KC stood beside me and said into the mirror. She placed an arm around my shoulders.
“You’re becoming a woman.”
“For a tomboy, that’s unlikely.” I said, sticking my tongue out at her.
She giggled. “It’s only natural for you to have these feelings. You’re not a little girl
climbing trees and beating up bullies anymore, Krysti.” KC said seriously. “You’re pretty,
popular, and this time next week, you may have guys knocking your door down, just to get a
date.”
I blushed, looking away. The only date I wanted to go on was with Steve, and I was too
macho to admit it to KC.
KC saw this and pinched my cheeks, teasing. “Are you blushing, Kirsten Farthay?”
She knew how I hated my name! I put on my best bully look and shook my fists up in
the air. “You’re asking for trouble, Kendra Clark!”
She surrendered. “I’m sorry, Krysti. I was only teasing. Chill, okay?”
I lowered my fists. “Okay, but you want to know the truth?”
“What?” Her eyes bulged at the prospect of gossip. “Tell me.”
“Okay, but you’ve gotta listen, and not laugh.” I told her. “Promise?”
KC nodded, and I told her. “I have a crush on Steve.”
“Our Steve? Steve Edwards?” She asked. “No wonder you’re blushing! Tell me all the
details.”
“Promise not to tell anyone, especially Kelly and Cara? You know how they can be with
this kind of stuff.” I asked her.
She jumped up in the air. “Yes, yes, I promise. Tell me already!” She sat next to me on
my bed.
“Well, ever since the club started, my heart flutters whenever he talks to me.” I said.
“Now that I have the clock to figure out, he’s been a real help. Steve’s been more than a best
friend helping another with a case. He’s been, I don’t know, sincere and caring about me lately.
I don’t know how to react.”
“I do.” KC replied. “Ask him out.”
“You’re kidding, right?” I walked back over to my mirror. “Me? Ask Steve out on a
date?”
“Sure, why not?” KC replied.
“What if he doesn’t feel the same way?”
“You just said he’s been caring toward you lately, right?” KC asked. I nodded. “Well,
doesn’t that mean anything to you?”
“I guess.” I replied.
“I guess?” KC remarked. “What kind of answer is that?” She looked at her watch.
“Listen, I’ve gotta run. We’ll talk later, okay?”
I said. “Yeah, whatever.” I watched my best friend run out of my bedroom door.
I sighed. My problem still wasn’t close to being solved.
I went to my mirror again and gazed at my reflection. Maybe KC was right? It was only
natural for me to feel this way. As she put it, I’m going through puberty.
As an experiment, I took my brown hair out of the careless pony tail and brushed it
around my ears.
I amazed myself. My reflection didn’t look anything like my old tomboy-self.
I was no longer a kid, and I decided it was time for a change. I smiled at my reflection. I
guess I never really noticed this before, but I really am pretty.
Not just so-so pretty, I was pretty like Kelly, KC, Cara, Lesal, Miranda, and the twins.
I’m in high-school now, and it’s about time I started to act like it.
Not to mention dress the part.
I wanted to surprise the club with my new appearance, but had no idea how to start.
If only I had a sister! I thought to myself.
My mind raced with possible friends....Kelly? No, she’d take it too seriously. Lesal?
No, she’s too busy with dancing to pay attention to me. Hmm....let’s see...
Cara! That’s it, Cara and I have been cris-cross neighbors for as long as I can remember!
She was pretty, popular, and a cheerleader!
Grabbing my coat, I headed across the lawn to her house, nearly running into one of my
brothers. I jumped the fences and knocked on the back door.
Craig led me inside where Cara and the other officers were sitting.
That’s when I saw him – Steve. I gasped.
“I forgot you were having a meeting.” I replied, my cheeks reddening. I turned to leave.
“See you later.”
“Krysti, wait.” Steve stopped. I saw a look between he and Bradley. He turned to the
group. “I’ll be right back, okay?”
I stood in my place. “What’s up, Steve?”
“Can we talk outside?” He asked me nervously.
Smiling, I nodded, and we headed out to Cara’s pool.
“I just wanted to ask you something.” He told me.
“Go ahead.” I said.
“I....uh...” He looked down at the ground for a second, then looked back up at me. “I
wanted to know if you’d like to meet me at the Clubhouse later.”
He just asked me out on a date! Cool!
“Sure, Steve.” I replied. “What time?”
“How about seven?” I nodded. He smiled. “I’ll meet you there, okay, Krysti?”
Again, I nodded. Why couldn’t I talk to him, or even look at him, without blushing?
“See you then.” I meekly spat out.

At six, KC and Cara were trying to pick out an outfit that would be good enough for me
to wear on my first date.
“Do you have any skirts?” Cara asked.
 “Have you ever seen me wear them?” I asked back. She shook her head. “There’s your
answer.”
“How about a nice blouse?” KC replied, searching my closet.
“What’s a blouse?” I asked.
Cara looked at me funny. “You honestly don’t know what a blouse is?”
“Nope.”
“I guess that answers my question.” KC remarked.
“You guys have to remember I’m the hand-me-down kid. Whatever my brothers grow
out of, they give to me.” I told them. “So far, I haven’t seen them wearing any blouses or
skirts.”
We laughed at that one.
“When was the last time you owned a pair of dress shoes?” KC asked.
Cara looked at me, secretly knowing.
I looked at KC shyly, thinking of my father. “To my dad’s funeral.”
KC gasped. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know.”
“That’s okay, only Sam, Josh, and Cara knew besides my brothers.” I told her.
“Listen, why don’t I let you pick some of my clothes out to wear?” Cara changed the
subject before KC asked who Sam was.
I shrugged. “Let’s go.”
I ended up picking out a blue and white striped blouse with a jeans skirt and stretch pants
underneath. Luckily, Cara and I were the same shoe size, so I borrowed a pair of black loafers to
go along with it.
I let KC and Cara fix my make-up and hair, something I’d never done before. When I
looked into Cara’s full-size mirror, I saw someone else grinning back.
“Is that really me?” I whispered to them.
“You really look pretty in that outfit.” Cara replied. “I should take you shopping with
me next time, if you don’t mind.”
I looked at her and smiled. “I like it. It’s comfortable, not-so loud, and not-so ‘old’
Krysti.”
KC laughed. “I think it looks great on you, Krysti.”
I smiled at my reflection, and they smiled back. “Call me Kirsten.”

An hour later, KC and Devin drove me to the Clubhouse.

“Do you see him?” KC asked, sitting herself down at a table with Devin.
I looked around. The place was pumping with jams and music. People were dancing, but
I could see Steve sitting patiently in the corner on one of the couches. “I see him now. I’ll meet
up with you guys later.” I told them as I sauntered over to Steve.
He stood when he saw me, gestured for me to sit next to him, and said. “Wow, Krys, you
look great.”
I blushed. “Oh, this old thing?” I teased nervously.
Steve laughed. He had such a charming laugh. “That’s funny.”
“Yeah, I thought so.” Boy, was this an awkward moment, or what?
My eyes searched the Clubhouse. Neither of us said a word until a slow song came over
the juke box.
“Would you like to dance?” Steve stood and held his arm out for me to take.
I blushed. “Sure,” I took it and we headed to the dance floor.
 “I meant what I said.” Steve whispered in my ear. “You really look delicious.”
Delicious? Me?
“Thanks, Steve.” I said softly. “You’re not half-bad yourself.” I whispered under my
breath, but he heard it and grinned at me.
We looked into each other’s eyes and right away, I saw a connection. “I like you,
Krysti.” He whispered softly.
I blushed and grinned. When the song was over, we headed back to the couch.
“You’re a good dancer, Steve.” I complimented him.
“I never knew you could dance.” He said. “You dance like a dove.”
I thought he was teasing, but when I started to laugh, I saw the serious look on his face.
“You really mean it, don’t you?”
“Of course I meant it.” Steve said. “I also meant when I told you I liked you.”
I glanced away, making sure he didn’t see me blush.
He touched my chin and laughed. “Is Krysti Farthay blushing?”
I looked him in the eye. How dark and handsome they were, like black pearls shining at
me.
Where did that come from?
“So I blush, so what?” I asked. “What’s so funny about that?”
“It’s just that,” He began, but I concluded with him. “You’ve never seen me blush
before.”
“There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me, Steven Edwards.” I remarked, inching
closer to him.
“Tell me.” Steve replied, putting an arm around my shoulder. “I’m listening.”
Should I tell him? Here goes nothing, I thought to myself.
“I’ve liked you for a long time, Steve.” I told him. I watched his reaction.
Knowing Steve, he’d probably laugh and make a joke out of it.
He didn’t. Steve just stared into my eyes and seriously replied. “I’ve liked you, too,
Krysti. Since our first case with the Club.”
My heart pounded excitedly. I smiled, and our faces leaned closer together, meeting in a
nice, soft kiss.
I liked the kiss, no matter how different it was to me. It felt good to be kissed by a boy.
Not just any boy, it was Steve Edwards.
I kissed him back, our tongues touching, and his hand caressing my cheek.
If this was what it was like to be a woman, I think I’d love every minute of it.
When we parted, I leaned against him. I could feel his heart skip a beat when my head
touched his chest. Steve held me close, and a peaceful silence was between us, as if no words
could explain what was happening.
It felt so good to be in his arms. I thought to myself.
Steve interrupted my thoughts. “What are you thinking about?”
“How good it feels to be in your arms.” I told him. “What about you?”
“I was thinking the same thing.” Steve replied. He sighed. “I can only find one word to
sum it up.”
“What’s that?” I asked, sitting up.
“Perfect.” He said, and we kissed again.
He was right. It felt perfect.
Bomb Squad Mysteries: Case Entries:
#34 Krysti and the Mystery Locket

I couldn’t explain it. It was too extraordinary for words.

My secret find was awesome, and fascinating all at the same time.
I stared at it again. I was the shape of a globe, with a tiny unicorn in the center. The
globe was gold-embossed and the white unicorn with a rainbow-colored mane had a tiny stone of
an opalescent color. I stuck it back in my pocket when I raced into Kelly’s house for the
meeting.
“Krysti, something’s wrong with Kelly’s mom.” KC bombarded me as soon as I walked
in the door. “She’s really sick.”
“Oh, no.” I replied. “What happened?”
KC shrugged. “I don’t know. Ask Kelly. She’s the one that told me as soon as I entered
the room.”
“Where is Mrs. Dratianos now?” I heard a voice behind me. I turned my head and saw
Bradley Allen with a frown on his face.
KC shrugged. “I don’t know. Last time I saw her, she was on her way to the store, and
she hasn’t been back since.”
“Well, where’s Kelly, then?” Bradley and I asked at the same time.
“Again, I don’t know. She called us here, right?” KC asked. We nodded, so she
continued. “She’s got to be here somewhere.”
“Who else in the club is here?” Bradley asked, concerned.
KC ticked off her fingers. “Allie, Steve, Liz, Adam, Cara, and the twins. Lesal and
Mandy still haven’t shown up, and I’m sure Kelly invited them.”
“We’re right behind you, KC.” Lesal’s soft Jamaican accent replied from behind us.
Sure enough, Miranda English was right beside her, with her dog, Labby. “Where’s Kelly?”
“That’s what we were just talking about.” KC said.
“We should join the others in the basement and find out exactly what’s going on in this
house that we should or should not know about.” Bradley replied.
KC, Lesal, Bradley, Miranda, Labby and myself headed to the basement. Everybody was
silent, looking down. The mood was sullen, and I deduced the whole situation was sad.
I saw Kelly jump when Labby barked. She was seated in the middle of the room. “Sorry
about that guys.” Kelly apologized. She pet Labby and Mandy told her pet to lye down.
“What’s going on, Kelly?” I asked.
“Momma’s ill, and she’s missing her family locket.” Kelly explained. “Her ring is
keeping her soul in my world. If you care about my Momma’s health, you’ll help.”
I didn’t know what to say. I thought of the locket in my jeans pocket. Could it belong to
Kelly’s mom?
“Krysti?” Kelly asked, snapping me out of my daydream.
I opened my mouth, but nothing came out. I sometimes didn’t really think I belonged to
the club. Was this one of those times? “I don’t know, Kelly.” I mumbled, looking down.
Now I felt bad. Either she didn’t hear me, or didn’t want to.
“Sure. Where do I sit?” I asked a little louder this time.
She sat me next to her, and beside Cara.
I closed my eyes and could think of nothing but the necklace. I think Kelly sensed it,
because after the search, she asked me to stay when the others left.
 “Is there something on your mind, Krys?” Kelly looked into my eyes.
“You tell me.” I said, not really meaning to say it so tart.
Kelly frowned. “What’s happening to you lately, Krys? You seem moody.”
“I don’t know.” I shrugged. Should I tell her about the necklace? “Ever since I found a
treasure hidden in my backyard, I’ve had the most disturbing dreams.”
Kelly stopped in her tracks and sat on the curb in front of her house. “Tell me about
them. After all, I am the Dream Realm’s Enchantress! Maybe I’ll be able to interpret them?”
I told her about the demon-man that haunted my dreams since I found the necklace.
“Where’s the necklace now?” Kelly gasped.
I pulled it out of my pocket and showed her.
“That’s Momma’s Dream Locket!” She grabbed it out of my hand. “Where did you say
you found it?”
“In my backyard. What is it, Kelly?” I asked when her face filled with horror.
“Momma said she was planting some flowers when it fell off from around her neck.”
Kelly recalled, staring into the ball on the unicorn’s horn. “I see it now.” She closed her eyes
and let the clairvoyance take over. Kelly recalled the events to me as if she were there.
“Momma is in the garden with your mother and is humming to herself. She is interrupted by a
noise in the bushes by your house. She goes to investigate, and the necklace falls off her neck.
Momma doesn’t notice until that night.”
Kelly opened her eyes, out of the vision, and looks at me. “Was that you in the bushes? I
saw a figure closely resembling a human.” She looked away from me. “No, it couldn’t have
been you. You were with me and the gang. We were playing catch at the park, remember?”
I nodded, not knowing what to say. I didn’t know whether to believe her about the
vision, or not. Sometimes, she does this just to scare us, but right now, Kelly Reading certainly
was not joking.
“What do we do now, Kelly?” I asked.
“I have a feeling I know where my mother is. Follow me.” Kelly announced, standing
up. I stood as well, and she took my hand.
She led me across the street to her aunt’s house. Kelly didn’t bother knocking, she just
walked in. “Aunt Adarra? Uncle Shane? Caleb? Anybody here?”
“In the den, Kelly.” Called a female voice.
“Come on, Krys. Show my aunt Adarra what you found.” Kelly led me to the den.
I saw her aunt Adarra, who was the identical twin to her mother, leaning over Mrs.
Dratianos’ silent body. Mrs. Dratianos was lying on the couch. Mr. Morehouse sat beside his
wife. “What’s going on, Mrs. Morehouse?”
Kelly nudged me. “Go on, Krysti. Show them.”
“I think I found something that belongs to Kelly’s mom.” I said, and showed them.
“Where did you get that?” Mrs. Morehouse asked in horror.
Obviously, this trinket was not a good thing. “I found it in my backyard. I’ve had it for a
week now.”
“Give it here, child.” Mrs. Morehouse commanded. “Kelly’s mom really needs this right
now. I can’t explain why, but she just does.”
I handed it over to Mrs. Morehouse, who then placed it around her sister’s neck. She
closed her eyes and chanted something I couldn’t understand.
I stood patiently, watching. In a few moments, Mrs. Dratianos awoke, asking tons a
questions.
 “Momma, Krysti found your Dream Locket. Aunt Adarra took it from her and placed it
around your neck again.” Kelly hugged her mom. “We’ve been so worried.”
“Maybe I should go.” I said softly, heading out.
“No, Kirsten. Please stay.” Mrs Reading replied, coming after me.
“I don’t belong here. It’s really none of my business.” I said sadly.
“It is when Dominick is haunting your dreams.” Kelly burst. I stared, confused. “Yes,
the demon-man has a name. He’s in the Grey Area of the Dream Realm, and he’s a new menace
to you, and especially to my family.”
“Then what do I do about it? I already gave back the necklace. Didn’t that do
something?” I asked, curious now.
I still had no idea what kind of danger I was getting myself into.
Mr. Morehouse, Mrs. Morehouse, Mrs. Dratianos, Kelly, and I talked for a while until it
was time to go.
“Krysti?” Kelly asked, walking me across the street.
“Yeah, Kel?”
“Promise me you won’t tell the others about this. It would cause more trouble than I’m
prepared to deal with right now.” Kelly replied.
I looked deep into her silver-blue eyes behind the gold-rimmed glasses. “Sure. Just as
long as you help me get rid of these nightmares of mine.”
Kelly smiled, then hugged me. “Deal.”
I really did belong somewhere. And now I knew exactly where.
Right here in Hill View, with my best friends from The Bomb Squad.

Scene From:
Bomb Squad Mysteries: Case Entries: #60
“Old Friends, New Friends”

My best friend was coming back to Hill View, and my other best friend was eager to
meet her.
That is, until they met.
Samantha Elizabeth West moved to New York in the middle of her 9th grade year. She
and I were part of what we called, “The Lunch Brood,” and now that KC is my best friend, who
lives in Sam’s old house, Sam wants everything to be the same as it was the day she left.
I introduced them with the hopes of them and me becoming a trio, but KC was jealous.
KC thought that, because Sam was back, I wouldn’t want to stay her best friend.
When they did meet, it was a disaster.
“Samantha West, I would like you to meet my best friend, Kendra Clark. We call her
KC.” I introduced with a smile on my face.
“Nice to meet you.” Sam said politely.
KC crossed her arms and ignored her.
Samantha and I tried another approach. “KC, when you moved here, you moved into
Sam’s house. Isn’t that cool?” I tried.
No luck.
I sighed.
“It’s okay, Kirsten. I’m sure we’ll become great friends once we fall into a routine.”
Samantha replied softly, and began to walk away.
KC grumbled to herself. “I wish she never would’ve come back.” KC headed in the
opposite direction.
Me? Well, I sat at the table and sulked.

Kimberly “Kymm” Janice Parker

Age: 13 Position: Alternate Secretary
Carrie Michelle Parker
Age: 13 Position: Alternate Treasurer

Scene from:
The Bomb Squad Mysteries: Case Entries:
#30: Kymm and the Incident With Carrie

I sat next to my sister’s bed, holding her lifeless hand. The scent of hospital medicine
filled the air, yet Carrie didn't smell it.
From behind me, I could hear someone quietly tip-toeing in the room. Without turning, I
could tell it was Richie Charmichael; the one guy that took advantage of my sister so much, she
was left in a coma.
"What are you doing here, Richie?" I asked him without taking my eyes off her hand. "I
thought our mother made it clear you were never to come near us again."
"I-I know." He stammered. "I just want to apologize." He stepped closer. "To you, to
Carrie, and especially to all the members of the Bomb Squad."
I glared at him, a tear glistening in my eyes. "Isn't it a little late for apologies, Richie?
My sister, whom I am so close to, is lying here in a coma, and all you want to do is apologize.
Where does the logic in that come in?"
He bowed his head to the floor in shame, then looked up to exclaim, "I said I'm sorry, all
right! What else do you want me to do, Kymm?"
I thought for a minute, glancing at my sister's silent body beside me. About how bad he
hurt her. When he was doing it, I could feel it. It hurt more than anything. When he didn't get
his own way, he started beating up on her. Leaving her barely breathing on our doorstep only
after taking advantage of her. "I didn't want to tell anybody I knew," I whispered softly to
myself.
"Knew what?" Richie asked.
"I could sense her when it happened, and I didn't tell anybody until it was too late." I
said, finally looking up at him. He had taken a seat beside me, hands in his lap.
"How--?" He asked, royally confused. "How could you sense her?"
I explained a little. "Look at us, Richie. We’re identical twins. Closer than most siblings
because we share a special bond. That night, when she was with you, she sent me a message. I
ignored it because I had other things on my mind. I shouldn't have though, because the only
times I sense Carrie is when she's in real intense danger."
"Oh," was all Richie said to me.
"When she was in danger, when she needed me, I deserted her." I told him.
 "Carrie wouldn't have been in that situation if it wasn't for Richie." I heard a voice
comment. I look up and see my friends, Kelly Reading and Bradley Allen. With them was
Steve, KC, and my Mom. Bradley continued. "You know that, so why do you think it's your
fault?"
I shrugged.
Silence filled the air as the group gathered around Carrie’s hospital bed. A complete,
tense, sad and mourning silence that seemed to last forever.
Until Mom spoke up. "How could you do this, Richard?" She spat out, getting in the
Beast's face. "We trusted you. We put aside all feelings of doubt and hatred when Carrie told us
who she was going out with. We were lead to believe you had changed your ways, and gave you
a second chance."
"I-I'm sorry, Miss. Parker." Richie started. He opened his mouth to say something else,
but was interrupted.
"Now's not the time for apologizing." Mom said simply. She turned away from Richie,
hiding her angered tears. "Now is the time for you to leave. For good."
I watched as he opened his mouth to object. Then close it, saying, "Yes, ma’am." With
that, he left.
I stood up to leave as well, after a nurse came in and told us visiting hours were over.

The Bomb Squad Mysteries:

Scene From: Case Entry:
#4 Carrie’s Day to Shine

Kymm:
I told Carrie that we cared about her. I even told her that we loved her, and that I wouldn't
be the same without my twin to keep me company. I guess she didn't listen.
Because, the next thing I knew, I walked into our room and noticed that her stuff was
neat and tidy. Like me, Carrie is a pack-rat, not a neat-freak.
I walked over to her desk, and saw a single sheet of paper. I didn't mean to pry or be
nosy, but I felt that I had to find out what that piece of paper. It was my duty as a twin --
My thoughts were interrupted by what was written on the paper, in very neat handwriting
-- for everyone to read:

Dearest Kymm,
By the time you read this, I'll be long gone.
I don't know where I'm going, but I only know
that I'm not wanted around there. Like the song
says, Kymmie, "The world is my oyster in the sea of
broken promises."
Do me one last favor, my dear sister.
Promise me you won't have the neighborhood look-
ing for me. I love you, Kymm, so don't let me down
It's not your fault I had to leave. In fact, like
everything around our house, It's only
my fault. I'll miss you, Kimmie.
Love,
Carrie

I wiped the tear from my eye with the back of my hand. I couldn't believe that she was
serious about running away! She'd always talked about running away from home, but Carrie
never actually took action. I never thought she'd actually go through with it!

Carrie’s Side:
I couldn't wait until I got out of the house. I was -- and am -- sick and tired of being second-best
to Kymm. I know I should be happy for her, since she's my twin and all, but I'm not.
Every time I walk into our room, I see the walls plastered with awards and certificates of
every kind. Then I take a look at my side of the room and see nothing, except for an award from
middle school for "Girl Voted Most Likely To Be Framed," which didn't mean much now.
When we were in middle school, she painted a portrait of me, which then, was framed in
the hallway of the Art Department of HVMS. One of our old friends said to me the next day,
"Hey Carrie! You've been framed!", and it was a school running gag for the rest of the year.
At first, I loved all the attention. Until the jokes began to get out of control. I was relieved
when the school-year was finally over, and I was invited to attend the Seventh-grade End of the
year Bash and Awards Ceremony.
I look back at last years' memories and think to myself, Was I really just a 'dunce'
so-to-speak? Am I really just a nobody on the outside, looking in?
I felt a tear escape my eye. I caught it before it could run down my cheek.
Grasping my backpack tighter on my shoulder, I quietly snuck out of the house without
being seen.
I didn't know where I was going, and I sure didn't like where I had been. I felt like a girl
on the run from the authorities, which was partially true. I was running away from the
authorities. My Mom, our friends. My old life. My old town of Hill View.
Good-bye and good riddance to bad rubbish. Forever.
I just wanted out. Permanently.

Devin Alexander Jones

Age: 16 Position: Honorary Member

Devin's Bomb Squad Mysterys:

#68 Devin and the Terror on the Slopes
#74 "Crazy Queenie's" Plan
#83 The HVH Treasure Hunt
#97 The Trouble with Relationships: Devin's Story

Scene From: Case Entry:

#68 Devin and the Terror on the Slopes
 Here we were, in the middle of a snowstorm -- one of the biggest and most disastrous that
Michigan has ever seen -- and I was with my best friends, Samantha West, Adam Smith, and
Peter Valentine. Of course, where Adam was, the rest of the Bomb Squad was sure to follow. I
hated that.
Let me get one thing straight here: I am not jealous of Adam and his other best friends.
I'm just feeling a little out-of-place, and left out. I mean, I...well...I don't know what I mean
anymore.
Anyway, Adam, Peter, Samantha, the rest of the Bomb Squad, and I are sitting in our
cabin, freezing our butts off. I glanced around the room. I rolled my eyes at Kelly Reading and
Bradley Allen, everybody's favorite couple, snuggling in a corner. Lesal DeRose and Quincey
Payne, her boyfriend, were playing a game of chess in the library corner. Adam was with his
current girlfriend, Miranda English. They were playing UNO with Krysti Farthay, Steve
Edwards (Krysti's boyfriend), and Allison Watson, who was with her boyfriend, Zach Keiths
(Zach wasn't playing though. He was just watching the game.) I glanced toward the windowsill,
and saw my sometimes girlfriend, KC, looking out the window as if she were about to cry.
Why couldn't I get up enough courage to go over there and talk to her? I scolded myself.
Why did I have to have such a huge crush on her? I mean, I've only known her as well as I could,
since Adam introduced me to her at lunchtime one day. I knew very little about her, except one
thing: She was gorgeous.
Samantha saw me staring and came up to whisper in my ear, "Why don't you go over
there and talk to KC?"
"No way!" I whispered back at my best friend. "I'm too embarrassed."
"I doubt that, Devin Jones." Samantha said sarcastically. "Now, go on." she urged,
pushing me a little. "Go over there and get it over with."
I sighed. "Okay, okay," I said, impatiently. Before going on, I tell her with a wicked
smile, "I'll get you for this, Samantha West!"
She waved goodbye as I walked over to KC. She was so quiet, so peaceful, and I had to
be quiet to not to interrupt her thoughts.
"Hi, KC." I said shyly. "How's everything going?"
She turned. "Hello, Devin. Come to humiliate me again?" She said sternly, her voice
level. KC turned her attention back to the window.
"I wanted to apologize, KC." I told her after a minute. KC turned her attention back to me
and smiled. “I’m sorry for the way I treated you on the slopes. I forgot my dignity back home.”
"Yeah," She told me simply. I could've sworn I saw her blush a little. KC then stepped
down from the windowsill and walked away. "Let's go somewhere where we can talk -- alone."
I shrugged, "Okay." I agreed. “One of the back rooms?”
“Sure.” She said softly.
“I really mean it, KC.” I told her, trying to move closer to her.
“I don’t doubt it, Devin.” KC smiled, closing the door. “You know what?”
“What?” I sat on a bed, and she sat next to me.
“I missed you.” She told me simply. “And I forgive you.”
Now, I smiled. “Thanks.”
Our faces inched closer to each other until our lips met in a simple, soft kiss.
I wrapped my arm around her waist and let her lean her head on my chest.
When I heard a rumble, I snapped my eyes open to look at KC.
“Did you hear that?” We echoed.
 She stood and looked out the window. I could see snow rumbling down the Mount
MacKenzie nearby.
I could also see a girl with a bright red coat on, her skis flying in the air.
“That’s Samantha!” KC cried with a gasp.
We watched helplessly as Samantha’s body disappeared in the snow.
Avalanche!
Michigan’s fury had gotten to my best friend, and all I could do was stand and stare.
“Whatever possessed her to go out in a blizzard?” I heard Bradley’s voice coming
toward us.
I opened the door with KC at my heals. “That’s what I’d like to know.”
“You’re her best friend.” Steve cried beside him, accusing.
“This isn’t the time for blame.” KC spoke up, splitting us up. “Now’s the time to go out
there and find Samantha.”
“Shouldn’t we call the rescue squad first?” Bradley, all knowing and calm in
emergencies, asked.
“Don’t ask, just do.” KC commanded. “Time for action. Let’s go.”
I followed them to the game room, where we found everyone had gathered around the
window.
Peter found me, and came up to us. “Did you see what just happened?”
“Samantha’s caught in the snow.” I replied. “The Bomb Squad has to go out there and
search for her.”
“Good thinking, Devin.” Kelly Reading’s voice was strong, and she was in charge in
moments.
I had a dreadful feeling in my bones. Never had I been in this much danger – and I used
to be a Deadly Dragon with Richie Carmichael and Johnny Kincaid. Never had I felt this much
adrenaline in my system.
What a rush.

Elizabeth Louise Edwards

Age: 16 Position: Associate Officer

LIZ’S BOMB SQUAD MYSTERIES:

Scene From:
Liz Edwards, the Queen Hawkette

"Are you coming, or not, Liz?" An agitated familiar voice asked from behind me. "Well,
hurry up! We're going to be late already!"
I turn to see Steve and the rest of what I called the Bomb Squad Hawkettes: Kelly, Krysti,
KC, Adam (our mascot), Miranda, Lesal and Samantha. Practically the whole squad was made of
Bomb Squad girls (and my brother and cousin -- not Bomb Squad girls.) The eight of them were
just a few paces away from me.
"I'll be there in a minute, Steve." I told my twin. Boy, I thought to myself, was he pushy!
I grabbed my coat and knapsack from the locker and slammed it shut. I then followed my
brother and our friends to the auditorium where we met the other Hawkettes: Rhiannon
Bennington, Cara Daniels, my best friend Jessica Wilson, Veronica Banks, Trini Song, Sabrina
Jackson, Maria DiAngelina (Queenie Prince), Grace Vernon, Harry Dobson, Cory Goslar, Allie
Watson, Arianrhod King,, Kelly Reading’s cousin Amanda Jo Applebee, and Lillian Straus.
(Whew! When you're on the Hawkettes for as long as I have been, you get to know the school
Squad members.) With them were all the football and basketball players.
I glanced around the auditorium, and shook my head. I couldn't believe that all of us were
there, along with the coaches and captains. And it was all because of this stupid dare-war.
Shaking my head, I rushed to the girls' locker room to get changed into my Hawkette outfit. I
reminded myself of what had happened to begin this silly dare-war.
It was between the Hawks/Hawkettes/The Boosters of Hill View High and the
Bulldogs/Cheerpups/Bayside Boosters of Bayside High, our main rival in sports. Every year, our
teams and their cheerleaders, along with the boosters, had a war. To see who was the best in Hill
View. And every year, the Hill View Hawks and Hawkettes won -- fair and square. To the
Bayside Bulldogs though, we always cheated.
Strange, I know, but true.
Anyway, this year, the Bulldogs were taking things a little too seriously. It all began
when a girl from the Bulldog Cheerleading squad, named Veronica, started hitting on our star
center (basketball), Bradley Schmidt. Claiming she was his old girlfriend from middle school,
she managed to delude him into believing that she still loved him. They went on a date -- one
date -- behind Kelly's back, and, when they were kissing, told him the truth. She didn't love him
at all, and that it was all a big bang-start to the dare-prank war.
This gave Bradley and Kelly the incentive to get all the football and basketball kids (both
players and cheerleaders) together to finally do something about it.
...And here I am. In the auditorium. With all the Hill View Hawk players and
Cheerleaders. To do something about this dare-prank war.
I strode out of the locker room, ready to cheer for the Hawks, like all the other
Hawkettes, but failing to do so. I saw Kelly, Lesal, Steve, Krysti, Samantha, and Lillian; the
Senior Squad Hawkettes; standing and talking by the podium, dressed in the Hawkette cheering
outfits which were identical to mine. Steve, of course, had his pants cheering outfit on.
"...And I don't even think Liz can write the perfect competition cheer." Kelly was telling
them. "I don't even know how she does it!"
The girls giggled and my brother smiled at his best friend, nodding to me. "You'd better
take that back, Kelly Reading. Look who just walked up."
She turns around and, spotting me, her cheeks turn a bright red. "I am so sorry, Liz. I
didn't mean!"
"That's okay, Kelly." I told her, smiling. "I know I'm the best HVH Hawkette on the
Senior Squad." I joked.
"Speaking of the competition," Cara Daniels started. "What cheers are we going to do for
it?"
I shrugged. Even I, the co-captain of the Senior Squad, didn't know what Samantha had
in store for the competition. "What are we going to do for the competition?" I asked her, to
which she, too shrugged.
Samantha started to say something, but was interrupted by the Senior Squad coach, Alexa
Martin. I sighed as I listened to her (Alexa) confirm what I already knew.
Scene From:
The Bomb Squad Mysteries:
Case Entry #106:
Initiates + Best Friends = Trouble

I never thought of myself as much of a teen detective. I just thought that I was put on this
earth to be a cheerleader, since I was the co-captain of the Senior Squad in Hill View High. (We
call ourselves the Hill View Hawkettes. Cool, huh?)
It was my twin brother, Steve, that got me into it. He and his best friend, and our next-
door neighbor, Kelly Reading. They have this club, called the Bomb Squad. Well, with Steve
being in it -- as an Alternate Officer -- he couldn't help but get me involved. It was bad enough
that I had a brother and a cousin in it. Now both Kelly and Steve want to initiate me into the
mystery-solving club.
At first, I didn't know what to think. I mean, I love my twin to bits, and I don't want to let
him down. It's just that when he's with the club solving a mystery, he can't help but mention it.
And tell me what the mystery was all about -- bad guys and all.
I don't know. I guess I should be happy that I'm being admitted into the great Bomb
Squad, but I always end up thinking about the bad things that happen when Steve's on a case.
Then again, I'm getting jealous. Just a little jealous, mind you. (Okay, okay. I admit it. I'm a lot
jealous of Steve. Wouldn't you be if your twin (sibling) was spending more time with his
(her/their) friends and talking about mysteries and them more than with you or to you?)
Of course I never told any of this to Steve, or even to my cousins, Adam and Sam. I
wouldn't want him to get mad at me.
"Liz, are you okay?" Someone interrupted my thoughts to say.
I looked up from my homework to see Steve looking genuinely worried. "I'm fine, Steve.
Aren't you going to rehearsal?"
"No. It was canceled." He told me simply, without taking his eyes off me. "What's
wrong?"
"Nothing," I hated lying, but I had to. "Why would you think anything was wrong?"
"Because you usually would call me “Stevie” What's wrong? Really?" He explained,
repeating his question again.
It was true. I usually do call him that. It was my name for him. (His name for me was
"Lizard") I opened my mouth to spill my guts, but decided against it. So I played dumb.
"Nothing's wrong, Stevie. Really!" I smiled brightly at my twin, to let him know that I was
telling the truth.
He smiled back. That was a good sign, I told myself. "Okay. I believe you!" He cried.
"Don't you want to know why rehearsal was canceled?"
"Actually, yes. I do. Why?" I asked my brother suspiciously.
"Come to the meeting and find out." Steve replied sarcastically, as usual.
"I'm not a member? Remember?" I reminded him, smiling.
Obviously, he caught the joke. He laughed, saying, "Good one, Lizard!" After he stopped
laughing, he cleared his throat, saying seriously, "But seriously. Kelly, Cara, KC, Bradley, and
the rest of the club has invited you to attend what may very well be the most exciting get-
together in your life."
I thought for a minute, then sighed. "When?" I finally gave in.
"Tonight. At KC's. Six o'clock." He told me before turning to leave. "Be there!" He cried
over his shoulder.
I stood up, only to find myself plopping on my bed, sighing loudly. I knew only one
thing: I was doomed.
I felt that I was about to be in way over my head.

Joshua Alec Stevenson

Age: 17 Position: Associate Officer

Scene From: Super Mystery:

#3 The Mystery Mansion Weekend

"You don't stand a chance against us, Cara Daniels!" Kelly exclaimed to The Unicorns
president.
"We'll soon see which club is going to solve the mystery!" Cara Daniels cried. "You're
not the only ones in Hill View High that can solve a crime!"
"I haven't seen you solve one yet!" Krysti cried sarcastically. "I bet you don't even know
how to!"
"That's not true, and you know it." Tasha Martinova interjected.
I had stayed silent for long enough. "Hey!" I yelled.
Both clubs stopped and stared at me.
"This has gone far enough!" I told them, looking from Kelly to Cara. "Can't we put our
differences aside long enough to help each other solve this mystery?"
Kelly put her hands in her pockets, and looked to the ground, biting her lower lip.
Cara crossed her arms and turned her back toward Kelly, nose high in the air.
"Can't we even call a truce?" I asked them. "Just this once?"
"You're absolutely right, Josh." Kelly replied. "I don't think The Unicorns would agree to
it, though."
"Well, Cara?" I asked her, stepping in front of her face. "Can we call a truce?"
Cara looked at me, then toward Kelly.
"OK. Truce." She replied reluctantly, sighing. "But this means nothing once we solve the
case!"
"Grow up, Daniels." KC replied, rolling her eyes.

Later, I was sitting out on the patio, and thinking about the past day's events.
"Is it safe?" I heard a female voice ask quietly.
I turned around to face Cara Daniels, smiling sweetly at me.
I noticed her unusual (for her) outfit: tight black jeans, and a floral sweatshirt that looked
as if it was ripped on the shoulder. Her long, auburn hair was tied into a French Braid with
magenta-and-white ribbons.
"Sure it's safe, Cara." I told her. "If you don't mind being around the enemy."
Cara sat down on a lawn chair that was beside me. "I don't think of you as the enemy."
She said. "To tell you the truth, Josh, I think you're kind-of cute."
 I stared at her. "Really?" I asked.
"Yeah." Cara said shyly, blushing.
This was one side of Cara Daniels that I have never seen before -- sweet. I stood up and
leaned over the railing that overlooked Clements' Pasture.
Cara followed and stood beside me. After a few minutes, she asked, "Josh?"
"Yeah?"
"Do you have a girlfriend?"
I stared at her, and asked. "You mean, now?"
Cara nodded.
"No." I said, not wanting to tell her Cara Richardson and I were having troubles right
now.
"Good thing." She said, "Otherwise, I wouldn't do this..." She then leaned up and gave
me a long, soothing kiss.
I couldn't believe it! Cara Daniels, one of the snob queens of HVH was kissing me!
To tell you the truth, I have always been interested -- and attracted to -- the pretty
brunette. And why wouldn't I be, besides the fact that she's the president of The Unicorns? I
mean, Cara is beautiful -- gorgeous even -- once you take away her mean streak. I hadn’t been
really interested until recently, thanks to Cara Richardson.
I had an urge to pull her closer to me, to get a better hold on her. It's a good thing I gave
in to that urge, because it felt great in the end.
We parted moments later, sighing.
"Well." I said casually.
"Well what?" Cara asked, looking up at me, her big brown eyes shining.
"Nothing," I said, pulling her closer to me. "I just wanted to break the silence, that's all."
Cara's arms were wrapped around my waist tightly, her head on my chest. We stood
there, in the darkness of the night, oblivious to our surroundings, enveloped in each other's
embrace.
A few minutes later, Cara giggled softly.
"What's so funny?" I asked.
"This." She replied, referring to the situation. "Look at us. Two members of opposing
cliques -- kissing! Isn't it rich?"
"Yeah," I replied, kissing her nose gently. "Rich - and sweet."
I couldn't believe my good luck!
For about an hour, we sat in the dark. Basking in both; each other's embrace, talking, and
staring up into space, overlooking Clements' Pasture -- one of the romantic spots in Hill View.
"Why don't we head inside." Cara suggested, just as the mood was starting to get
romantic. "It's getting late."
I stared at her, smiling mischievously. "What? And ruin a perfectly romantic moment?" I
exclaimed, mock-scowling. "No way!"
I then gave her another tender, soothing, and exquisitely delicious kiss. I held Cara tight,
knowing that I'd never let her go for anything. It felt fantastic to know that I had Cara Daniels in
my arms at last! (She insisted, of course.)

Scene From:
Super Mystery #4 Stranded!
 "Josh, I'm so scared." Kelly confided to me when we were alone. She was practically
bursting with tears and shivering, as if she was cold. "I've never been this frightened in my life. I
mean, what if I never see my family again? Momma and Daddy Derrick will think I've been
kidnapped! This is so humiliating!"
I stood there, holding her close. This was one side of my best friend's girlfriend I have
never seen before: Defeating.
"Don't think like that, Kelly." I told her gently. "You're always telling the rest of us to
think positive, and to believe in ourselves. Now I'm telling you to do the same."
I held her close in an awkward-friendly, comforting hug, a loss for actions.
I didn't know what to do. I had never known Kelly Reading to be so negative, and so
defeating about any situation. I've always known her to be persuasive, cunning, intelligent, fair,
kind, and giving. To me, and perhaps to Mandy and Adam, this was depressing. I couldn't bare to
see Kelly so sad.
So I kissed her gently on the lips.
"Josh..." Kelly replied, turning away with a shadow of tears in her eyes. "Please don't."
"I'm sorry, Kelly. I apologize." I told her gently. "I know how much you love Bradley --
and he loves you. Dearly. I just couldn't stand to see you so negative, so sad and defeating. I had
to do something. I care about you."
"Really?" Kelly asked, wiping her tears on the sleeve of her jacket.
"Really." I said. "I really do care about you, Kelly. So does everybody else in our great
club." I explained, pulling her closer to me.
This time, she didn't turn away. While I hugged her for support, I let her cry on my
sweatshirt.
"Shhh." I told her quietly and calmly, stroking her soft and beautiful reddish-brown hair
gently. "Everything is going to be all right."
Kelly looked up at me and said softly. "I sure hope you're right, Josh. I don't think I can
take much more of this."

Samantha Elizabeth West

Age: 16 Position: Associate Officer

Samantha, Peter, Devin, Johnny, and Krysti were the “Rebels”. One night, Samantha is back
from New York, borrowing her father’s car to go out with her friends. Samantha drives them to
clubs, where they get in illegally. Johnny isn’t able to get away, Devin didn’t care, Krysti
needed to get away from her brothers, Peter wanted to have fun, and Samantha was just the
driver. Well, they went all out. At one club, they, excluding Samantha, got drunk and high.
They started to freak out, and left, once Samantha had realized they’d had enough. On the way
home, with Samantha driving, she gets a quick vision from the Amulet around her neck. Only
Krysti, who’s in the front seat with her, seems to be paying attention, and notices it. To have it
glow the color it was, meant one of the Crusaders was in trouble. Turns out, its them. They get
pulled over by the cops, who recognize them, letting them go after telling Samantha to have
someone look at her tail light. Hearts pumping, they ride the rest of the way home silently. They
Case Entry
walk into Samantha’s
#61: house, totally silent. They nearly get caught by Mr. West. They feel
guilty,
Play With
but Fire,
it takes
Heat a week
the Flame...
for Samantha to get up the nerve to tell her father what happened.
Peter’s there with her, as are Devin and Krysti. Devin swears he doesn’t want KC to know, and
Krysti was
I stared
fighting
at thewith
littleSteve,
crystal
anyway.
bear thatThroughout
Krysti heldthe in week,
her hand
Johnny,
for a long
who’stime.
turning good
again after
"Isn't
seeing
it georgous?"
what Richie Krysti
did asked
to Carrie
KC Parker,
and I. asks them what’s going on. Krysti, Devin,
Peter, and
I nodded.
Samantha manage to keep this a secret from the rest of the Bomb Squad. The Rebels
are back,
KC butsighed,
they don’t
"Wow."want to be. This is also the time Samantha confesses her love for Peter,
but he’s"Unmistakable
hiding yet another simplicity,
secret from
that'sher.
for certain."
Shenara Iand toldthe
Krysti,
Dream nodding.
Realm Crusaders. They join
in the battle
KC and onceKrysti
Kellygave
and me Lady
strange
Guardian
looksherself
that said,
tells"Huh?"
Samantha and Peter what their destinies
are. Krysti
"What?"
and Samantha
I asked innocently.
have known about Kelly’s secret, but have been skeptic and
unbelieving
"Sammy,until you're
Krysti not
seesinDominick
Brooklynwithanymore,
the Dream
so don'tLocket,
give us
andany
Samantha
of that intellectual
sees Shenaracrap,
with
Peter with
OK?" KC replied
the Crystalsarcastically,
Rose Amulet.with a*it’s
hintreally
of spite
justtoa the
Jadetone
stone
of her
withvoice.
a crystal rose etched into
it, hanging
"Sorry,
by aKendra."
thin thread.I said, equally sarcastic, making sure to put the emphasis on her name.
"I didn't know that you could recognize such intellectual tongues!"
I could see where this was going.
KC and I glared at each other.
KC hated me, ever since I moved back to Hill View from New York.
"Stop it, you guys, just stop it!" yelled Krysti angrily, storming out of the study, her eyes
brimming with tears.
"Look what you did, Sammy!" KC exclaimed.
"I didn't do it, you did!" I shouted.
"This never would've happened if you didn't move back." KC replied hatefully.
"Shut up, KC!" I screamed. "If you were such a great best friend, than you'd be
conforting Krysti right now!"
KC opened her mouth to protest, but the words seemed to excape her.
"I'd listen to my own advice right now if I were you, Samantha West." KC replied softly,
glaring at me.
What did she call me? Samantha? Usually, she would call me Sammy, or Sam. But never
Samantha. Something was up, that's for sure.
"You're right." I told her calmly.
"I know I'm right." KC said, walking out of the room to find Krysti.
I started after her. "Wait KC. I'm coming with you." I told her, my hand on her
shoulder."After all, Krysti is my best friend, too. I want to see her happy, just like you do."
KC sighed, rolling her eyes.
"Truce?" I asked hopefully.
"Sure."

Scene From:
Samantha and the Mystic Sisters Mystery (True Stories #2)

Amanda Jo Applebee and Kelly Reading were two of the most strangest girls I knew at
Hill View High.
Sometimes, I think that they're psychic.
For example, when Amanda Jo stares at Kelly, a second later, both of them burst out
laughing.
Strange, I know, but true.
 "Hey, Sam. Want to join us for a burger at The Clubhouse?" Devin asked.
I smiled at my best friend. "Sure." I replied, glancing at each of the members of TSDA.
The Clubhouse was the official meeting place of the Bomb Squad and a favorite hangout
of many Hill View High and Bayside High students. It was also one of my favorite places to be.
I glanced at them, and followed close behind the large group of best friends that made up
Teen Sleuths Detecting Agency.
Lesal DeRose and Quincey Payne, Kelly Reading and Bradley Allen Schmidt, Amanda
Jo Applebee and Brock Cavanagh, Miranda English and Adam Smith, Josh Stevenson and Cara
Richardson, Kendra Clark (I mean, KC) and Devin Jones, Steve Edwards and Krysti Farthay,
Peter Valentine, Allie Watson and Zach Keiths, the Parker twins Kymm and Carrie with their
boyfriends, Kwame and Eric Carter, Liz Edwards and Johnny Kincaid, and I arrived at The
Clubhouse twenty minutes later.
"Do that thing that you do, Mandy and Kelly." Brock suggested after we ordered.
"What thing?" They asked at the same time.
We smiled at one another. It wasn't often that Amanda Jo and Kelly say the same thing at
the same time, let alone agreed on things.
"You know." Brock urged.
"No, we don't." Amanda Jo told her boyfriend, glancing at Kelly, confused.
"Be more specific, Brock." Johnny told his good friend. "What are you talking about?"
"Whatever it is that the two of you have with each other. What is it called?" Brock asked.
He snapped his fingers, trying to grasp what he was talking about. "Where you stare at each
other, and a second later, you burst out laughing?"
The twin cousins smiled at each other.
"You mean Mental Telepathy?" Kelly asked, still a bit puzzled. "Why do you want us to
do that?"
Brock shrugged. "I don't know."
I watched as Kelly stared deep into his eyes.
"You don't know what you're talking about, Brock." Kelly said, smiling. "Either that, or
you can't put it into words."
"Wow." Brock sighed, awed. "I didn't know you knew me so well."
Kelly shrugged. "I don't. I was using Telepathy."
"I thought you only had that with Amanda Jo." I replied.
"As you know, I can do it with her." Kelly began, "But I can also use Telepathy and my
Empathic abilities with other people."
"Only a select few can actually read her mind." Bradley explained as he stole a french fry
from my basket. He smiled. "Like yours truly -- and Amanda Jo, of course."
Brock stared at the twin cousins, still awed by their "Psychic Abilities."
"Wow." he breathed, staring at Kelly. "Amazing." He turned to Amanda Jo now. "Can
you do that, too?"
"Are you kidding me?" Amanda Jo laughed, "I can't do that! I may have been born with
the Mystic gifts, but I sure can’t control them, yet."
"You may not be able to read people's minds," KC began, smiling at Amanda Jo
excitedly, "but you sure can dream!"
Amanda Jo rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue out at her, pouting. Everyone laughed,
even Amanda Jo, after noticing that she was the center of attention once again.
It was all too hard to believe, but I couldn’t help thinking of when Kelly first moved in.
Richie Carmichael was terrorizing her at the Academy, now Hill View Elementary. Krysti, Josh,
Cara, Bradley and I all sat with her at lunch.
Richie came over to our table with Devin and Johnny behind him. Kelly grew silent.
She stood up against him, but something happened to her to make her act funny. She pointed at
him, cried out, “Zap!”, making him motionless. A rainbow wind of sorts came from her finger,
bright as the noonday sun. He was scared shiftless, I was in awe, and the rest of us didn’t know
what to think of the act. She began to relax, and the wind disappeared. I remember her words as
Richie ran away from us.
“Next time, I won’t miss.”
I smiled now, thinking of the act.
“What are you smiling about?” Peter asked me, holding my hand.
“I was just thinking of the day Kelly started at the Academy.”
Kelly looked at me, in awe. “You remember that?” She asked. “With Richie?”
“It was kind of hard to forget,” I told her. “I ran to my parents after school, begging them
to take me to an eye doctor.”
“I remember you telling me.” Krysti said. “You thought you were seeing things.”
“Kinda puts it all in perspective, doesn’t it?” Kelly teased me, sneaking a look at
Bradley.

Quincey Tyrone Payne

Age: 17 Position: Semi-Associate Member

Scene From: The Bomb Squad Mysteries:

Super Mystery: #4
Stranded!

(...)
I held Lesal close, conforting her as well as I knew how. She was trembling in my arms.
"Oh, Quincey!" She bawled, "What if the police don't find Miranda and the others?
They'll die -- She'll die!"
"No they won't, Lesal." I tried to tell her. "Just wait. Tomorrow, they'll be here. Kelly will
be in her room, bossing you around like she always does. Miranda -- "
"Miranda's my best friend in the whole wide world! I don't want anything to happen to
her, that's all." Lesal interrupted, calming down a little before talking. "I feel responsible for
her."
I wanted to say "Well, your not. So give it up," but I thought it wouldn't be appropriate.
Besides, I couldn't bring myself up to it. So instead, I asked, "In what way?"
"Oh, I don't know. I feel like her big sister that she doesn't have. You know what I mean,
don't you?" When I shook my head, she went on, "She's older than Mark-Antony, and she only
has her brother and father. Her mother died when she was only five, and when Mark-Antony was
two."
I nodded, quietly telling her to continue.
"Miranda never had another girl in the house, besides herself and Labbie, her black
Labrador retriever." I remembered Miranda's puppy and smiled. "Anyway, she's always telling
me how she would like an older sister. When I told her I would be her honorary older sister, she
was overjoyed."
 "That was very nice of you, Lesal." I told her with a shy smile. Even though we have
been a couple for six months (since she and Kelly were in the Ray County Ballet School
production of "Beauty and the Beast"), I was still cautious and shy around her. "I am very
impressed with your accomplishments."
Lesal giggled softly. I could see that she was calming down and lightening up. "You're
the greatest, Quincey Payne!" She cried, hugging me and giving me one of her famous delicious
kisses.
I blushed. Lesal laughed. It was as if Miranda and the others weren't important anymore.
Life was good. Very good.

Peter Wesley Valentine

Age: 16 Position: Honorary Member

PETER'S BOMB SQUAD MYSTERYS:

Scene From: THE BOMB SQUAD Super Edition

Peter Valentine, Boy Genius

"Are you sure they are fighting?" I asked my best friend, Adam Smythe.
"I'm positive, Pete. I heard the argument with my very own ears." Adam replied, sighing.
"THE BOMB SQUAD is having its first fight -- against each other!"
Adam pushed his glasses up on his nose further with a finger, sighing again.
"I seem to recall that, some time ago, THE BOMB SQUAD fought a battle of the sexes --
which was also against each other." I explained, nodding.
THE BOMB SQUAD had a battle of the sexes that almost split the group in half. The
girls thought because there were more of them, they were the best detectives in school. Of
course, Bradley and Kelly made a deal: If the guys in the club could solve a mystery -- without
the girls' help -- they would receive some sort of reward. Since the girls needed the guys' help as
much as the guys needed the girls' help -- the whole thing ended up a tie!
"That was different. Then, it was boys against girls." Adam said.
"What is it now?" I asked cautiously.
"Kelly and Bradley against the rest of us," Adam explained, ticking them off on his
fingers.
(One, I counted mentally.)
"Krysti and KC against each other for the title of 'Miss Hill View High,' or something
like that. They're in constant competition!"
(Two.)
"Lesal and Mandy won't talk to anyone in the club except each other. Whenever I'd pass
them in the halls, they'd stop talking. It's like I'm a walking conversation stopper!"
(Three.)
"The twins aren't even talking to each other, and it's bugging the grass out of Carrie. She
came to me for advice, but I didn't know what to do about it."
(Four.)
"Josh and Bradley are the same way as always, except that Josh doesn't know what's
gotten into his best friend. Josh claims that Bradley and Kelly are ignoring him, and the rest of
the club, for some odd and pointless reason."
(Five.)
“Allison is so into herself she doesn’t know what’s going on.”
(Six)
"To top it all off, Steve and I had a huge fight last night! Oh, Peter, I don't know what to
do!" Adam exclaimed, slumping half-heartedly on a nearby chair. "I really want my friends and
me to be happy with each other, but nothing I try to do seems to help. Goes to show you just
what kind of friend I am, huh, Pete?"
Listening to my best friend, I felt horrible. Really horrible. I, Peter Wesley Valentine,
didn't have any advice to offer my own best friend. "Tell you what, Adam, my associate." I told
him quietly, concerned. "Why don't I head home and leave you to your duties. I shall try to help
you out in the morning at school."
Adam nodded, smiling in his usual joking manner as if nothing was wrong.
"Acknowledged, Peter, my pal. See you later."
I headed for the door, nearly running into Adam's cousin, Steve, on the way out.
Once outside, I grasped my backpack tight, and sighed. Usually, Adam would have
offered to walk with me, since he's my best friend and all. But lately, I've been noticing some
changes in my best friend. So I didn't press the subject.
As I head in the direction of Grovenburg Avenue, I had plenty of time to think about
many of the things that have been bothering me.
For example: What was my exact status at Hill View High? Was I just someone who
searches and presses for perfection? Am I someone just lucky enough to be a part of a mystery
clubs' friendly existing environment? I had often wondered what it would be like to be as smart
and popular as the people in THE BOMB SQUAD.
"Why did I have to be seen only as 'Adam Smythe, the THE BOMB SQUAD Sleuths'
best friend?" I signed furiously to myself, as if I was deaf. I had learned long ago, from Kelly
Reading, that signing to myself seemed more normal (and more sane) than talking aloud.
I arrived at my house a few minutes later and, unlocking the door, I let myself inside.
Immediately, I headed for the kitchen to see if my father had left a note, as he usually did. Sure
enough, there it was. It read:

Peter,
I'll be home at ten o'clock or so. Make
yourself a sandwich or something when you
get hungry.
I'll see you later.
Love,
Dad

Normally, I would throw the note in the trash before reading it. But this time, I stood
there, staring at it. I loved my father very much, in spite of the fact he leaves me home alone at
night. Sometimes I wish he'd be there when I needed him. Like now.
I felt a tear trickle down my cheek. Quickly, I wiped it away using the cuff of my
sweater, and headed upstairs to my cozy bedroom.
 * * *

"Peter!" Lesal DeRose yelled the next day after school. Next to her was her faithful best
friend, Miranda English. "Over here!"
I didn't see any trace of the rest of THE BOMB SQUAD, as I usually would. I didn't even
see Adam.
Lesal and Miranda greeted me with sad Hellos.
"Why so bummed, you guys?" I asked as I fell in step next to Lesal. "And where is
everybody? I thought after school was supposed to be a club thing?"
"It is, Peter." Lesal remarked, barely looking into my eyes.
"Than what is the problem?" I asked. I thought about what Adam told me yesterday.
They were silent.
"Oh, yeah!" I cried a few minutes later, suddenly remembering. "You guys are having
some sort of fight, aren't you?"
Miranda and Lesal nodded. Miranda suddenly burst into tears.
"It can't be that bad," I interjected, hugging Miranda's shoulders comfortingly. I glanced
toward her best friend. "- is it?" I asked Lesal, who seemed down-in-the-dumps.
"Yeah." Lesal said softly, hugging her books.
"Do you want to tell me about it?" " I asked, looking at each of them. "Or should I just
walk away and leave you alone?"
"What do you think, Manda?" Lesal asked her best friend, who had calmed down by now.
"Should we tell him, or not?"
"We have to tell someone, Lesal!" Miranda spat out. "I can't take much more of this
constant bickering and fighting. I mean, we're supposed to be best friends!"
"You guys are best friends." I reassured them. "Now, speaking as a best friend of a 'best
friend,' what are you going to tell me?"
"It's too horrible for words, Peter!" Miranda started, sniffling.
"We're going to tell you something that may hurt you." Lesal explained. "Are you still
willing to hear it?"
I nodded, though I wasn't too sure if I wanted to hear it. Whatever 'it' was.
"So much for telling him, Manda." Lesal declared a few minutes later, glancing at her
watch. "I have to be going, or I'm going to be late for class."
"Why don't I walk her home, since you have to get ready for dance class." I suggested,
shrugging.
For the first time that day, I saw a smile on Lesal's face. "That'd be great. Thanks Peter!"
Lesal cried. "Bye!"
Both Miranda and I strolled along Fox Trot Avenue in silence.
I glanced at her. She appeared to be tired and sad.
"Are you OK?" I asked her.
"Yeah, Peter. I'm fine." She assured me, smiling shyly as she rubbed her temples. "I just
need to get home and take my D.I.S. That's all."
"What is a 'DIS'?" I asked her. "If you don't mind my asking."
"DIS is short for 'Daily Insulin Shot.'" Miranda explained.
"What is insulin?" I asked.
"Insulin is a pancreatic hormone that regulates carbohydrate metabolism by controlling
blood glucose levels." She explained expertly, as if bored.
Miranda smiled at me. She sighed. "I'm sorry Peter." She told me. "You probably didn't
understand any of that mess, did you?"
"No. I didn't." I told her truthfully, smiling back.
"Basically what it means is that I'm a diabetic." Miranda explained, this time, with a
genuinely sweet smile. "If I have too much, or too little sugar, my body goes out of wack. If I
don't give myself a shot of insulin at least once a day, my body gives up on me, and I end up
either in a diabetic coma, or in insulin shock."
"Wow. I didn't realize how grown-up about it you were." I complimented her with a
smile. "Your parents must be proud."
She stared at the ground, frowning sadly. "I live with my father and younger brother,
Mark-Anthony." Miranda explained softly, barely looking at me. "My mom died after she had
my brother. I barely knew her."
I watched as she wiped a runaway tear from her face.
"I'm sorry Miranda." I apologized, looking at her with pleading eyes. "I didn't know." I
managed, stammering.
"That's okay, Peter." She replied sweetly. "You couldn't have known that about me."
"I still say that you're very grown-up about your diabetes." I repeated. "I like that in a
girl. It shows maturity."
She looked at the ground shyly and said, "Thanks. I guess it's all a part of the resposibility
of my disease."
A nervous silence filled the air once more.
"Well, Miranda." I began nervously. "What were you guys talking about back there?"
"You really want to know?" She asked uncertainly.
"You brought it up, now finish it." I told her seriously.
"Okay Peter. Here goes."
With that in mind, she told me the whole sad and depressing story.
After explaining it to me, she burst out crying - again. "Stop this petty bawling, Miranda
English!" I commanded, stopping in our tracks, holding her shoulders, and staring directly into
her ocean-blue eyes. "Right this minute! Do you understand me?"
Nodding, Miranda wiped away her tears. "I'm sorry about my outburst Peter." She said,
calming down. "I didn't mean to act like a baby around you."
"No apologies allowed." I told her sternly. "Now I understand why the two of you are so
silent toward the rest of the club."
"How-?" She asked, confused.
"Adam told me." I explained, smiling shyly. "After all, he is a walking conversation
stopper. He told me so himself."
Miranda giggled a little.
I smiled. "I can't believe how easy it was to talk to you, Miranda." I explained. "Usually,
I'm a nervous reck around girls. Around you, I don't feel like that at all. In fact, just the
opposite."
"Ditto." She replied, smiling.
Before I got a chance to ask what she meant, she asked "Did you want to come in for a
while?"
I didn't realize that we had arrived at the English's astute but humble abode.
"Sure. Why not?" I said, blushing.
 Miranda and I smiled shyly at one another.

Scene From: Thriller Chiller

#7 Seven Generation Curse

I held the statuette in my hands and stared into the eyes. What I saw made me scared, but
a fun-scared.
With my left hand, I touched the face.
Then it hit. I began to feel weird and dizzy. I closed my eyes and shook my head to block
out any unwanted feelings.
It didn't work! I still felt the same, but this time, it was worse.
"Peter Valentine, come to me..." I seemed to have heard someone calling my name. "Be
with me, Peter, and you shall see the light of another world..." The voice rambled on.
I looked around the attic, and saw nothing. No one was there. Than, who was calling me?
Did my ears deceive me? I thought I was hearing a young girl calling for me.
"You cannot go back now, Peter..." The voice said softly and slowly. "You can never go
back..."
Shivers ran up and down my spine, and I was frozen with fear, amazement, and
excitement -- all at the same time.
Suddenly, I felt a cool breeze coming from behind me. I shivered. My instincts told me to
turn around, and, without really thinking about it, I gave in.
I turned, only to see a silhouette of a girl. She had an old-fashioned dress on, which was
tattered and torn.
The girl stood there, arms out-stretched, staring at me.
Her flowing, dark-brown-almost-black hair seemed to dance in the cool breeze that
surrounded her.
"Come to me, Peter..." The girl moaned, her body drifted toward me.
I was frozen with fear, only to be freed by the girl. Suddenly, as if I was lifted off the
ground, I felt my body drift toward the mysterious girl.
"Peter...Come to me..." The girl moaned as I drew nearer.
I tried to talk, but my voice box wouldn't cooperate. So I thought, What are you doing
here? What's going on?
"Please, Peter." The girl said softly. "Do not think of this now. Think only of where you
would like to be."
I closed my eyes, and thought of Adam's house, where I knew someone was sure to
believe me about this strange occurrence.
I felt a strong breeze on my back, and all around my body.
I opened my eyes again. I saw Adam's house, only it didn't feel like my best friend's
house. I turned around to observe my surroundings.
I saw a perfectly structured building that resembled one from the old west -- or at least
from that time period -- instead of woods.
"Where am I?" I asked into the air.
The girl stood in front of me, smiling. I noticed that her dress was in perfect condition,
and she was standing there, in "real" form.
"You are in my world, Peter." The girl answered. "You can never go back to that awful
place that you call home. Never."
"Who are you anyway?" I asked her.
"My name is Shenara." She answered sweetly.
Shenara came up to me and held my waist. I looked at her very closely. She was
beautiful. I thought to myself. Really beautiful.
Without thinking, I gave her a long, soothing kiss.
"I knew you would see it my way, Peter." Shenara cooed, looking up into my eyes. "Now
do you see why I brought you here?"
"No. I still do not." I replied.
She let go of my waist and stood back. "I wanted to be with you." She told me, letting a
single tear trickle down her cheek. "I love you, Peter."
I didn't know what to say. How could she love me? I didn't even know her.
"I knew from the moment I saw you in our attic, that I could not stand to be without you."
Shenara replied, stepping closer. "Since I cannot exist in your world as I am now, I had to bring
you to here. That is all I can tell you."
"Is this for real?" I asked. "If so, how did I get here? Why can I not go back?"
I was swarming with questions to ask her but, before I could go any further, she tenderly
kissed me on the lips.
Enough as I truly believed and thought this was heaven, I wanted to go back to my house.
I missed my father.
I felt a tear trickle down my cheek as I stood there. I stared into space, thinking of my
father.
"Why are you crying, Peter?" Shenara asked sweetly. "Do you not like to be here with
me?"
I was speechless. She obviously had no idea how much I longed for home. Here I was,
with the girl of my dreams, and I wanted to go home.
"I miss my father so much." I told her simply.
"You do not wish to be with him, Peter. You told me so yourself." Shenara replied.
"I have told you nothing of the sort, and you know it." I cried, letting go of the beautiful
girl that now held me tight.
"It does not do any good to lie to me, Peter." She said. "I know everything about you."
That did not seem possible. I had just met her that day.
"How?" I asked.
"Do you not dream of having someone to truly call your own?" She asked me.
I stared at her. "I would greatly appreciate it if you would not answer my question with
another. Please answer the question."
"You did not let me finish." She interjected. "Did you not say, and I quote, 'I wish I never
had a father?' Is that not what you said."
I didn't know what to say.
"That doesn't matter. In my world, people sometimes say things they don't mean." I told
her seriously. "I want to go home. Now."
Shenara sighed. "Okay. Okay, All you have to do is think of home, and you will be there.
Safe and sound." She sounded agitated.
I did as I was told. The next thing I knew, I was back in my attic at home, safe and sound.
"Peter!" I heard someone exclaim. I turn around to see my father, standing by the attic
staircase.
 I shook my head and blinked my eyes a few times, just to make sure it was real. Sure
enough, it was. I was home.
"There you are!" My father cried, "I've been looking all over the house for you!"
From my position on the floor, I stood up and ran over to my wonderful father. I wrapped
my arms around his waist and gave him a big bear hug.
"I love you, Dad!" I cried, glad to be back home.
Dad stood there, in front of the attic staircase, puzzled. "I love you too, Peter." He said,
still confused a little.
I stepped back from my father's grasp, smiling happily. Even though he isn't there half the
time, I still loved him.
ð,* * *
The next day at school, I sat through all the boring classes as usual, with unusual
excitement.
At lunch, I decided to sit at the same table with my best friend, Adam Smythe, and his
club, THE BOMB SQUAD.
I stared into space while I munched on the usual crap they pass as school lunch. I listened
attentively to the conversation that was going on around the table.
If this had been any other day, I would've stayed out of the conversation, minding my
own business. But this wasn't any ordinary day, and my friends weren't talking about the every
day run-of-the-mill mystery adventure.
Kelly Reading and Bradley Schmidt, the BOMB SQUAD club president and the
treasurer, were leading a conversation about their second favorite subject -- Dream Realm
Crusading. (Their favorite subject, besides each other is, of course, detecting.) From what I
knew about Crusading, Kelly’s parents used to be Crusaders. Sounds too weird to me.
Anyway, as soon I got a chance, I told them about my recent adventure with "Shenara."
When I was finished, Kelly stared first at Bradley, then at me.
"Are you totally serious, Peter?" She asked solemnly, not smiling. Her piercing silver-
blue eyes glistened and shone as she stared at me dangerously. If looks could kill, I would die
indefinitely. Not to mention be fried to a pulp.
I nodded, not knowing what to say. Whenever Kelly looked at anyone dangerously, she
was not kidding around. She was dead serious when it came to grotesque material, such as this.
(Excuse the lame pun, please.)
Kelly turned her thoughts to her best friend, Cara, her boyfriend, Bradley, and her best
guy friend, Steve Edwards. They seemed to be thinking the same thing. What are we going to do
about Peter's predicament?
"Peter," Kelly addressed me curiously, "what are you doing later today -- after school?"
I shrugged. "Nothing. Why?"
"Because I would like to see if I could get with you and talk to you about this problem of
yours." Kelly said.
I frowned. She didn't phrase her sentence correctly. Again.
As if reading my mind, she rolled her eyes, saying, "So what if I didn't phrase my
sentence correctly, Peter! I'm trying to save what's left of your thriving-perfectionist's life!" She
sighed, calming down a little. "Besides, my mind was on overdrive. I didn't think before I spoke
-- again. Forgive me if I seem too engrossed in your predicament to take the time to speak
according to every rule in the English language!"
The table was silent. Kelly stared at me.
 "Sorry," I replied quietly. I cleared my throat before going on. "Its just that I like to --"
Kelly and the rest of THE BOMB SQUAD finished my sentence with me. "--thrive for
perfection!"
"We know, we know, Peter." Steve groaned sarcastically, rolling his eyes. "Not
everybody can be perfect, like you."
"Shut up, Steve!" Liz (Steve's twin sister), and Adam said in one voice.
"We're getting off the subject here, people." Kelly cried in her best president-of-THE
BOMB SQUAD voice. As usual, we shut up and listened. She was good at that. Very good.
Kelly turned her attention back to me. "Well, Peter? Would it be OK if I met you under The
Kissing Tree in the school courtyard as soon as I'm through with cheerleading?"
I nodded. "Sure, Kelly. I guess so."
"Good." She replied just as the bell bonged, signaling lunch was over. Kelly, along with
the rest of us, rose from our seats. Smiling, she said, "See you then, Peter." She headed for
Bradley, who was a few paces away, calling over her shoulder. "Don't be late!"
I sighed, rolling my eyes. I didn't know how I ever got through the day, but I did.

"Okay, Peter," Kelly said to me, sneaking a Look at Bradley, who had joined us under
The Kissing Tree. "Tell us again what happened with Shenara."
For the third time that day, I explained what happened. (The first time was when I told
Adam on the way to school, and the second time was at lunch.)
Kelly stared at me dangerously. I could tell that I was in trouble. Big trouble. For the
second time that day.
I couldn't help it. I had to speak out. "What's so bad about Shenara, anyway?" I
exclaimed, a little out of character.
"You obviously don't know what she's doing to you, do you Peter?" Bradley asked me as
he cleaned his eyeglasses with his sweatshirt.
"I guess not." I said quietly, avoiding their mean, yet sympathetic glares. I paused before
continuing. "What is she doing to me, Kelly?" I turned to her boyfriend. "Bradley?"
They looked at each other uneasily, and Kelly let out the breath she'd been holding. "Well
. . . uh..." Kelly stammered, fiddling with her book-bag string. "You . . . uh . . .well.."
"Basically what she's trying to say is that," Bradley began, sneaking a glance at Kelly, "if
you don't watch out, the next time you either go into your attic, or go into her 'world,' you'll
never see this 'world' again."
"And you'll be trapped in the Dream Realm forever! With no chance of ever returning!"
Kelly spat out finally.
"What can you do about it?" I asked. I shoved my hands into my jacket pockets. "I mean,
what can I do about it?"
"You can do only one thing." Kelly said. "Make sure to keep your attention on this world.
And don't fall in love with Shenara. Whatever you do, make certain that you stay in focus with
us. Keep your mind on us when you're with Shenara. Okay, Peter?"
I nodded. I understood, but was still a little confused. "What are you going to do?"
"Try to catch that Dream Realm Courtesan." Bradley told me sternly. "Kelly. Peter.
Come with me. We're going to be Crusaders."
I knew I was in over my head.
Scene From: Case Entry # 96
Peter and the Great Romance
I stood there, staring at Jillian Droll and Marshall Warren. This was the most excitement I
have ever seen in my sixteen years.
In front of the whole drama club, and perhaps the whole school, they were "practicing"
the kissing scene from the school play.
Someone tapped me on the shoulder. I turned.
"Pretty fancy smooching, huh Pete?" Adam asked, nudging and smiling.
"I have seen worse." I commented, rolling my eyes.
"Bet you've never felt it." Adam challenged.
"You should not be the one to talk, Adam Smythe!" I exclaimed in a low whisper. "You
probably have not even been kissed yet."
Adam stared at me. "Have so." He commented simply and mysteriously. Then, dashed
off to join the rest of THE BOMB SQUAD, leaving me gawking after him.
How rude!

Miranda Dianne English

Age: 15 Position: Spy Officer

The Bomb Squad Mysterys:

Beginning Of: Case Entry:
#18 The Musical Mayhem

The Musical Mayhem

Thefts at The Music Box...

The Musical Mayhem

Thefts at The Music Box...

Miranda English and her friend, Kelly Reading decide to take clarinet and flute lessons at the
new music studio in Hill View, The Music Box, but they don't expect mystery to follow.
During their first day, the girls overhear a few of the instructors discussing the recent thefts of
musical instruments. When Miranda and Kelly ask about it, the owner tells them after the certain
instruments are stolen, they're later heard -- in the attic! Will the girls solve this mystery before
all the instruments are stolen?

Don't miss any of the mysteries starring the Bomb Squad Sleuths!

Prologue
The Musical Mayhem

(The Music instructors at the Music Box, while teaching a local teen, Brian Montgomery, how to
play the saxophone, hear a violin upstairs in the attic. Curious, the teacher, Mrs Brumwell,
excuses herself to investigate. Finding nothing, goes to tell the owner, Mr Price, then back to her
student. Fortunately, Brian, a HVH student, overhears, and the next day, the story is told all
around school. Soon, it gets to the Bomb Squad through everybodys favorite gossip, Maria
"Queenie Prince" DiAngelina at lunch.)

Chapter One
A Musical Lesson

"No, Miranda." Kelly Reading, my sort-of instructor cried, shaking her head, showing me
the correct fingering on my clarinet. "It's like this."
Kelly put her lips on the mouthpiece, blew, and belted out an irritating squeak.
We looked at each other and burst out in hilarious giggles.
"Sorry about that." She apologized, handing the clarinet to me. "The clarinet is definitely
not my best instrument!"
"I could tell." I joked, laughing.
"But seriously, Miranda." She replied, opening her flute case and putting it together. "We
need to practice."
Together, we played a song that she and I wrote called "Melodic Journey," for our duet in
the talent show.
When we finished, one of her younger brothers, Mark Anthony, clapped his hands. "Tres
bien, dear elder sibling!" He replied in a fake French accent. Mark Anthony has this thing about
learning different languages.
As if on cue, Kelly and I stood up and bowed.
"Merci, Mark-Anthony. N'est-ce pas?" Kelly replied in fluent French.
He little brother scratched his head, and thought for a minute. Then he replied with,
"Huh?"
"If you're going to speak French around me," Kelly started, laughing, "learn it first!"
With that, the three of us burst out laughing.
When we had settled down, I asked him, "What did you need, Mark Antony?"
"I was just checking if you guys were okay, that's all." He replied before leaving. “I heard
a terrible noise and thought something happened. See you later, Kelly.”
As soon as he left, I replied sarcastically to Kelly, "Your brother, the worry-wort."
"You shouldn't be too hard on him, Miranda." She said sympathetically.
I looked to the ground, silent. I never seem to do anything right with Kelly, I thought. I
looked up at my fifteen-year-old friend, and said aloud, "You're right. I guess I was being too
hard on him." I paused. "Sorry, Kelly.”
“You know, I think he has a crush on you.” Kelly giggled in a whisper. I reddened.
“Stop teasing me.” I said with a laugh. “I already have enough guys wanting to go out
with me.”
Kelly giggled. "That's the ticket, Miranda! What a way to think!"
She shoots, she scores -- big time.

I should stop here and explain some. As you know, My name is Miranda English. I am a
fourteen-year-old girl that lives in a small town in Michigan, called Hill View, a freshman in Hill
View High, and am terribly shy. I have loong, dark-red hair that I put in French braids or leave
down. I live with my father and younger brother, Matthew. They worry about me, though it
drives me crazy sometimes.
The reason why they worry about me is because I have anorexia nervosa. It's not a really
serious form of it, but it's just as hard on me. My father is really strict when it comes to my
curfews and stuff -- thinking I could really hurt myself or something. Considering he has to be
my mother as well as my father, it's understandable.
Kelly Reading, as I said, is my sort-of teacher. She also is one of my best friends that can
play any instrument well. (Except the clarinet, as you could see!) She was giving me my lessons
so I could learn the clarinet and be in the band. Kelly is also one of the most popular kids in
school. She's the Co-editor-in-chief of the Hill View High Gazette, the Bomb Squad President
(which is where Kelly and I really got to know each other. More about that later.), Cheerleader
on the Hawkettes Sophomore Squad, and all-round nice girl. Whenever any one of us in the
Bomb Squad, or even in school, need somebody to talk to, she's there.
Do I sound too envious of Kelly? I hope not, because I'm the complete opposite of all my
best friends. Even my very best friend, Lesal DeRose.

# 50: Miranda’s New Image

I had to go through with it. My bright-red curls were getting in my face, and I was sick
of pulling my hair into a bun or a ponytail.
“I’ll see you later, Lesal.” I replied, heading in the direction of Cool Cuts.
“Where are you going?” She asked me in her soft Jamaican accent.
“I just have something I have to take care of.” I told her.
She shrugged and said. “I’ll be in the Court if you need me.”
“Sure.” I said, and raced away.
I walked into the parlor and came face to face with the stylist.
“May I help you?”
I cleared my throat and told her what I wanted.
Nearly an hour later, I met up with my friends in the Food Court. Allie was the first one
to notice me. “Oh My God, Miranda, what did you do to your hair?” She squealed.
I did nothing but smile. I got many compliments from my friends.
Lesal stayed silent. So did Cassie.
“You totally chopped it off. It looks great, Mandy!” Kelly complimented, touching my
hair. “I like it.”
“Thanks.” I said shyly.
“What made you do it?” Adam asked, sullen.
I looked at him. “I thought I needed a change. After all, Allison’s almost always
changing the color of her hair and the style of her clothes.”
Allie glared at me. “So?”
“So nothing.” I said. I have never been this confused and take-charge before in my life.
“I didn’t mean anything by it. I was only using you as an example. Sorry if I offended you,
Allie.”
“That’s okay. I don’t need you to tell me how to live my life. I’ve got parents for that.”
Everybody laughs.
“You see where I’m going, right?” I asked. “Change is good.”
No one said a word. “Besides,” I continued. “It’s not a person’s hairstyle, or what kind
of clothes they wear that makes a person who they are. It’s what’s inside that counts.” There, I
said it. “I’m the same Miranda English inside. I just hope you will be able to see that.”
I sat down and started to cry. Were my friends going to desert me now?
At first, no one said anything. Then, I felt someone wrap their arm around my shoulder.
I looked up.
It was Adam, with Lesal, Cassie, and Allie beside him. “I’m sorry, Miranda.” My
boyfriend replied. “I like your hair, really.”
“I think we were just a little bit...well, shocked.” Lesal told me.
“You understand why I did it, don’t you?” I asked them. They shook their heads. “It’s
silly, really.”
“Tell us. We’re your best friends. We won’t laugh.” Allie replied seriously.
“I got sick of it being in my face and bugging me.” I said, cringing.
“That’s not silly.” Bradley spoke up.
“Yeah,” Kelly echoed. “That’s logical.”
Allie, Cassie, and Lesal nodded in agreement.
“Come on, Miranda.” Adam replied. “Dry those tears and follow me.” He turned to the
others. “We shall return.”
He led me to the fountain in the middle of the mall, just outside of the Food Court. He
sat me down. Very gently, very shyly, he kissed me. “I was stupid, Mandy. I didn’t mean to
react the way I did. I’m sorry.”
With each sentence, he kissed me. I giggled. “You weren’t stupid, Adam.” I kissed him
back. “You were....Adam.”
He laughed. “Seriously. You look fantastic.”
I looked down at my lap, blushing. “Thanks, Adam.”
“Then again, you’re always fantastic to me.” Adam replied poetically, lifting my head up
and kissing me. “That’s why I love you, Miranda.”
I blushed again. “I love you too, Adam.”
We kissed again.
I knew my best friends would understand.

Scene From: Case Entry:

#57 Miranda and the Attic Mystery

I couldn't help but wonder. If I kept Sandy's secret, and didn't tell Mrs. Kendricks that her
daughter wasn't missing -- that she was actually in my attic, I'd have to live with that fact
knocking at my conscious until I told somebody. But if I did tell somebody, not necessarily her
mother (or my dad, for that matter), I'd feel like I had betrayed a great friend.
My mind was conjuring up all sorts of scenarios. Like, if I told anybody, even Lesal, that
Sandy wasn't kidnapped, I'd lose Sandy's trust. Not to mention her friendship. Also, if I didn't
tell, and kept quiet about the whole thing, I'd lose Lesal's trust in me. Since Lesal and I have been
best friends since junior high, if I lost her, I'd feel like I'd lost the more out-going part of myself.
Then again, Sandy and I have been good friends since the school play (she was a Capulet and I
was her understudy). If I lost her trust, I'd lose the chance to have a friend outside of the Club.
I was so torn, between Lesal and the Bomb Squad and Sandra Kendricks. I didn't know
what to do. So I buried my face in my pillow and started to cry like a blubbering idiot. Nothing
new.
 Lesal Keiko DeRose
Age: 16 Position: Spy Officer

LESAL’S BOMB SQUAD MYSTERIES:

#5 Deaf Ears Mystery

I had quite a problem on my hands. I felt like I was abandoning the Bomb Squad, my
friends since grade school. I was obsessed – even Yolanda noticed it, and she was hardly around
these days. Mama noticed, which was a bad thing, and I knew I was in a bind.
Who am I supposed to be friends with? Jasmine has been here for an entire month,
having absolutely no luck with friends. I knew it was because of her handicap. People were
afraid to come near her, so I stuck beside her, writing little notes back and forth between us. She
was trying to teach me Sign Language, but it just wasn’t catching on.
I didn’t know what to do, until the day Kelly burst in my room while I was working on
my homework. I heard the door open with a bang behind me. Turning and standing, I see her.
Our club president and my old friend didn’t look too happy. Kelly Reading was
scowling, and a vicious glow shone from her silver-blue eyes behind her lenses.
“Kelly, what?”
I didn’t get to finish. She strode to me, thrusting her hand out toward me and crying.
“Freeze.”
Suddenly, I couldn’t move from the neck, down. “How did you do that?” I asked.
She shrugged it off, saying, “Magic. I want you to tell me what’s going on Lesal Keiko
DeRose.”
“But –.”
“The truth, Lesal. Now.” She demanded, arms folding. “You haven’t sat with us at
lunch, called any of us, or even talked to us lately. Miranda’s more depressed than ever, and I
want to know why you’ve abandoned us.”
“I haven’t abandoned you, Kelly.” I tried. “Please, unfreeze me so I can explain.”
It took a moment, but she touched me on the shoulder. I was able to feel my arms and
legs again. “Thank you. Now, sit.”
Kelly sat.
“Are you willing to listen to what I have to say?” I asked her.
She nodded. “Always, now explain.”
I spilled the whole thing out. From that fateful first day, to meeting Jasmine’s hearing
parents, and finding out her handicap. I told all.
“I’m sorry if I haven’t been with you guys lately, and I’ll even console Mandy myself.” I
said. “I wanted to be there for Jasmine when she needed someone to be her friend.”
“What about us?” Kelly asked. “We need you to be our friend, too.”
“I know, but I wouldn’t think you’d understand.”
“Understand?” Kelly said, smiling. “What’s there to understand about deafness? You
do remember who I’m related to, don’t you?” I shook my head, so she continued. “The Parker’s
butler Charles is deaf, Momma, Daddy, Derrick, Aimee, Adarra and Bradley, the twins, Melody,
my cousins and I all know sign language. Why didn’t you come to us to help you?”
 I shrugged my shoulders. “I guess I wanted her to be my friend more than anyone
else’s.”
“Is that also why you’ve been the only one seen with her besides Brian Templon?” Kelly
asked. “In a way, you didn’t want her to have any friends. If you want my advice, Lee, ask her
if she’d like to sit with us at the Stand. She’ll make instant best friends.”
“What if they judge her?” I asked. “You know how the guys are.”
“Sure I do, but I also know those same guys will be cool about her once they meet her.”
Kelly said. “Well, how’s about it?”
“Am I forgiven?” I asked her.
Kelly Reading smiled, hugging me. “Definitely.”
“Than yes, I’ll do it.” I told her. “Not because you told me to, but because I want to.”
“Good.” Kelly said, nodding. She stood. “I’ve gotta run. See you at the Stand on
Monday, Lee.”
“See you, Kel.” I joked back.

Scene From: Case Entry:

#29 Lesal and the Dance Studio Mystery

I waved at Kelly excitedly. "There he is! There he is!" I whispered to her, my heart
racing. The new guy in class was really cute! I couldn't help but notice.
Kelly laughed. "Lesal, will you settle down? Who is 'he'?"
"Him. The new guy over there." I told her. I pointed to where he was stretching out on
the barre. "The tall, black, and handsome guy over there. The one with the awesome brown eyes
and charcoal-colored hair. Isn't he adorable?"
"I see him, Lesal." She said with a teasing twinkle in her silver-blue eyes. "Question is:
have you spoken to him yet?"
I shook my head regretfully. "I'm too chicken."
"Ha!" Kelly spat. "You -- chicken? Oh, I seriously doubt that, Lesal DeRose!" She
giggled at the thought. "Do you even know his name?"
I shook my head again.
"Well, Lesal." She began, pushing on me a little. "What are you waiting for? An
engraved invitation? Go! Learn his name, at least!" As I glided across the studio over to the
most gorgeous guy on earth, she exclaimed behind me, "And don't come back until you have a
full cover story on him!"
I rolled my eyes at one of my best friends. Kelly wanted to be a writer someday, and
spoke in news-jargon whenever she had the chance.
Cowardly, I walked up to the guy, and began to stretch my legs out on the barre.
Fortunately for me, I was facing him. I decided that I would start the conversation, and squeaked
out a small, "Hi."
He looked up at me and blushed miserably, then hung his head, embarrassed. "Oh, uh,
hi."
Come on, Lesal. Say something else more intelligible than 'hi.' You're a lot smarter than
that! Trouble is, he's so distracting and handsome! "Don't talk much, do you?"
He looked up again, and smiled. He shook his head as he switched legs. His gaze was on
the outstretched leg. I counted that as a bad sign. Very bad.
 "Why's that?" I asked him. This talking thing was getting easier and easier as I went
along. Trouble was, he wasn't talking back.
He didn't look up this time. I could tell he was as embarrassed as I was.
Maybe he liked me. I stared at him, and decided that he was really dedicated to his ballet
dancing. "How long have you been dancing ballet?" I asked him, exercising my legs.
"Uh, I've been dancing ballet all my life." He blushed again. He was so shy and cute!
Not to mention his adorable British accent. Dreamy.
Time for introductions. "My name is Lesal DeRose. What's yours?"
Standing on both feet in front of me, he said, "Quincey Payne. I knew your name before
you introduced yourself just now." He spoke with a warm British accent. How very romantic.
"I make it a pact to know all the best ballerinas."
Now I blushed. I didn't say anything in return. I couldn't. I was hopelessly, happily, in
love with him. My head was on cloud nine. My heart was beating a hundred miles an hour. I
sighed, lost in thought.
"So far," He was saying. "I haven't known anybody as spectacular at dancing as you,
Lesal."
"She's eccstatic." I barely heard a familliar voice say, with a giggle. I turned to face
Kelly. "I got curious." She told me simply, shrugging.
But before I could say anything in return, Madame Paulette clapped her hands in
attention.
Darn. I thought. Just when I was getting to know Quincey Payne. I let out a breath of
aggravation and hurried to my spot in the front of the class. Quincey, on the other hand, was
way in the back. Kelly was right beside me.
Good luck with him, Lesal. Kelly sent telepathically, smiling at my reflection in the
mirror. Not that you need it!
I faced the mirror in the front of the studio, and began to follow the warm-up exercises
Madame was doing. I focused my attention mostly on Quincey. His eyes were closed as he
warmed up, as if he didn't need to see Madame's movements. I had to admit it, he was good.
Very good. I watched him during class. He was very good. Who knows why he kept to
himself all this time? I was going to find out. After all, I was a detective and a spectacular
dancer. As you know, Quincey said so himself.
The rest of class went like clockwork, as always. As I danced, I watched Quincey.
Before I knew it, class was over and it was time to put my street clothes on back in the locker
room.
"So?" Kelly asked eagerly. "What's his name? Did you get his number? What's he like?
I'm just bursting with questions about him, Lesal, and you better tell me everything!"
"What do you want to know?" I asked her, smiling. Kelly really was a cornball when it
comes to relationships, and a great friend when it came to everything else.
"Just the facts, ma'am." She said, in a Sargent Joe Friday ("Dragnet") voice. Then the
two of us burst out laughing. She always did impressions, and she was proud of her weirdness.
"Well, his name is -- get this -- Quincey Payne." I told her. "He has this wonderfully
warm English accent, he's been dancing ballet all his life, and is great at it."
"Better than you?"
"Just about."
Just then we heard a scream. That was our cue to turn detectives. Kelly and I gave each
other a Look, then cried, "Let's Jam!"
 We stood up and jogged over to where the scream was coming from. I saw dance clothes
strewn all over the floor, and Beverly Nickless was sobbing. Her best friend, Tina Lyn, was
comforting her.
"What happened here?" Kelly asked.
"Looks like a tornado hit." I commented. "What happened?"
Tina Lyn glared at us. "As if you didn't know, Miss I-don't-care-what-other-people-say!"
She cried nastily.
"If you're not going to answer her, at least answer me." Kelly began, looking from Tina
to me. "Tina, what happened here?"
"When she came in to get dressed, she saw a note attached to her locker." Tina explained.
She turned her gaze to me accusingly, and said matter-of-factly, "In Lesal's handwriting."
I stepped back, surprised. I said little except, "Can we see the note?"
"You can keep it, for all I care." Tina cried. "We certainly don't want it, that's for sure."
She handed Kelly the note, and I read it over her shoulder.
"'I don't care what other people say, I'll get back at you for getting in my way. Beware of
falling stars -- Watch your back. Lovingly, Lesal.'"
I snatched the note out of Kelly's hands, "This isn't my writing, Tina!" I exclaimed,
glaring at Tina's accusing stare.
All she said was, "Yeah, right."
The two of them stood up. Beverly dried her tears, and Tina helped her pick up the fallen
articles of clothing.
"And I suppose you didn't do this, either?" Beverly asked, sniffing. She reached for her
locker door, and showed me the front of it.
"'Beware. I'm on the prowl!'" It read.
I gasped and shook my head. "Who-What-Where?!" Was all I could say. I was shocked.
Someone threatened Beverly's life -- and was trying to frame me!
Kelly tugged at my shoulder, "Come on, we got to write this stuff down."
I nodded recluctantly.
Kelly turned to Tina and Beverly. "If we could be of some help, you guys, here's our
card. Don't be embarrassed to speak to Lesal, myself, or anyone else in the Club about this
mystery. Okay?"
"Thanks, Kelly," Beverly started, sniffing.
Tina interrupted nastily, "But no thanks."
Beverly turned to her best friend, "Why not? If Lesal says very sincerely that she didn't,
than why can't they help us find out who did? What's the harm?"
"You can tell Lesal's lying her eyes out." Tina accused. "It's an old trick. It's to cover
up, I tell ya. The only reason she and their Club --" She grabbed the card away from Beverly's
hands, and read, "Teen Sleuths Detecting Agency -- want to help is so they can be entertained.
Don't believe everything you hear, Bev. These guys are as phony as TV. Why can't you open
your eyes and see that?"
That's when Kelly stepped forward. "Listen, Tina." She started, glaring at her. "Why
don't you let Beverly speak for herself?" Kelly turned to Beverly, and said sincerely, "Do you
want us to help you find out who's behind this, or not?"
Beverly looked uneasily from Kelly's and my friendly faces to Tina's scowl. "I don't care
what you think, Tina. You may be a great friend most of the time, but you're really lousy when it
comes to my life being in danger." Beverly paused. "And yes, I want your help. I've heard
around town that you guys are really good at solving mysteries. I just hope you solve this thing
before it's too late."
"Good choice, Beverly." I told her with an assuring smile.
"You are absolutely hopeless, Beverly Ann Nickless!" Tina spat, before storming out of
the locker room in a huff.
In a few minutes, Kelly and I had to go. Since we were already dressed in our street
clothes, we dropped by out lockers to pick up our things and go. I followed Kelly out the locker
room door.
"Kelly?" I inquired.
"Yeah, Lesal? What's up?"
"Are we gonna help her?" I asked.
"Sure. We agreed to solve the case, and I don't know about you, but I intend on finding
out who sent that note. Along with who wrote that message on Beverly's locker."
"Oh." I said dreadfully. I know I wanted to find out exactly who did those cruel things
to a fellow ballerina, too, but I didn't want to be blamed if we didn't.
"Why ask? You know I love solving mysteries." She continued. "You also know I don't
like my friends hurt in anyway. Catch my drift?"
I smiled a little, nodding.
Pretty soon, Dad pulled up in front of the building, and Kelly and I climbed into the car.
We had to sit in back, because Davey was sitting in front.
"Did you just pick him up from school?" I asked Dad.
"Yes, Lesal." Dad told me in the rear-view mirror with his wonderfully soft Jamaican
accent. "Just ask him about it."
"No thanks, Daddy." I laughed. "Forget I asked!"
"How was dancey, Lissie?" Davey asked, turning around in his seat.
"I'll tell you about my day when you tell me about yours." I said to my brother. "Deal?"
He shook his head excitedly. He really looks forward to the quality time his bigger sister
spends with him. "'Kay, Lissie."
I sat back in my seat, sighing.
Ten minutes later, we had reached Kelly's house. Reluctantly, I followed my friend out
of the car. I turned around and told Dad where I'd be. With that, he drove off and I followed
Kelly up the stairs and into her house.
As soon as we were upstairs, I dropped my dance bag on her bed. I watched as she put
her bag and stuff away in their proper spots. Then she sat down on the office chair at her desk.
"Where have I seen those words before?" I asked, half in a trance, half to Kelly.
"Excuse me?" She asked, bewildered.
"Those words on Beverly's dance locker." I told my friend. "What were they?"
"You mean, these words?" Kelly told me, handing me the note and a piece of paper with
the message on it.
I glanced at them again and repeated the words over and over again under my breath. "'I
don't care what other people say. I'll get back at you for getting in my way. Beware of falling
stars -- Watch your back.'" Said the note. And the message read, "Beware. I'm on the Prowl!"
Suddenly, it came to me. A song popped into my head. "'Beware'! Of course!" I
exclaimed. "That's it!"
"Huh?" She looked confused for a moment, then said, "Oh, I understand! Why didn't I
think of it before?"
 "The song by our band, 2 Hot 4U!" I shrieked.
Kelly's face fell. "But what does the song have to do with the case? I don't get it."
I shook my head. "Me either. Hey --" I cried suddenly. "Maybe that's part of the frame-
up?"
"We still don't know who it was that framed you and sent the note and message." Kelly
complained, pouting. "We got to find that out. Before it's too late."
For about fifteen minutes, there was an eerie, tense silence in the air.
"Back to Quincey Payne. Anything else I should know about him?" Kelly asked me
after a while, smiling.
"Besides the fact he's drop-dead gorgeous?"
"Sure. Go with it."
"For one thing, he made it sound as if he'd been in a lot of ballet schools." I told her,
thinking aloud. "Think that's suspicious?"
Kelly pretended to think. Then said with a shrug, "Idaho."
We burst out in giggles. She really knew how to lighten up a dull mood.

Kevin Michael Woods

Age: 31 Position: Brother/Manager of Band

Scene from:
Kevin Woods, Extroardinaire
(The Plan In Effect -- after niece Kelly and his sister Adellandra give him advice)

I couldn't believe my eyes. That guy was all over her!

I had to do something -- and fast, because I don't think I could deal with the pain of
losing Andrea.
I mean, if you had a girlfriend (or boyfriend, if you're a girl), wouldn't you want to make
sure they were happy with one person -- you?
I stood up from where I was sitting and strutted over to them.
"Hello, Andrea." I said seriously, my arms folded.
"Kevin!" Andrea stammered, looking from the guy to me. "You frightened me!"
"May I talk to you for a second, Andrea?" I asked, keeping my eye on the other guy.
Andrea looked toward her "friend" for approval.
"Go ahead, Andy. I can wait." He said simply.
As soon as we were out of ear (and eye) shot, I gave her a long, tender kiss.
"Oh, Kevin." She replied, smiling. "What was that for?"
I held her close to my chest. I looked deep into her big, beautiful brown eyes. "Nothing in
particular." I replied. I motioned to her male friend. "Who is that?"
"Robby?" She asked. "He's my cousin from Colorado."
I stared at her. I didn't believe her for a second. "What would your cousin be doing here
in Michigan?" I challenged.
"Kevin Woods!" Andrea cried, backing away from my grasp. "How could you be so
insensitive?"
 I was lost for words, so I stuffed my hands into my pockets and said nothing.
"My cousin CeeCee, Robert's sister, died in a car crash last month," Andrea was almost
yelling, which was very unlike her, and pointing toward Robert. I followed her gaze, and saw a
very sad young man sitting at the table. "And all you can think about is yourself!"
I looked at the floor, not wanting her to see me embarrassed. Her cousin -- the one she
was talking about -- was mourning over his sister's death. I decided that she was right. "You're
right, Andrea." I replied sincerely. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have been so harsh."
"That's okay, Kev." She said calmly and sweetly. "You couldn't have known about
CeeCee."
"You're absolutely right." I sighed. I glanced over to her cousin. "For now, I think we
ought to be getting back to your sad cousin."
Then, with an arm around my girlfriend's waist, and her arm around mine, the two of us
strutted over to Robert.

Scene from:
Bomb Squad Mysterys Super Mystery
#1 The Hawaiian Get-away

This is the life. I thought to myself as I held my fiancé close, watching my niece and her
friends play around on the beach. I've got my girl, I've got my family, and I've got my friends; It
doesn't get any better than this!
"Kevin?" Andrea asked. "What are you thinking about?"
"What else?" I asked smiling, looking into her big, brown eyes. "How much I love my
family, my friends, and my girlfriend."
I gave her a tender kiss on the lips.
"How sweet." I heard somebody coo, giggling.
I looked up to see my niece Kelly and her boyfriend, Bradley, staring down at the two of
us.
Bradley shook his head, laughing. "Is this spot taken?" He asked, smiling.
"No." I told him. "You guys can go ahead and sit down, if you're up to watching true
romance take place."
Kelly, Bradley, and Andrea rolled their eyes, laughing at my remark.
"Silly, Uncle Kevin." Kelly laughed, sitting on the sand next to Bradley. "When will you
learn? I already have true romance."
"Yeah!" Bradley replied, agreeing. He pointed to my niece, and nodded. "What she said."
With that, the four of us burst out laughing.
The situation with Kelly and Bradley is that they have been a couple practically forever.
I'm not saying they haven't had their share of bad times. Not at all. It's just that through it all, the
were able to deal with it in an understanding manner.
From what I hear from Andrea, who hears it from her younger sister Cara, whom is
Kelly's best friend, Kelly and Bradley are an idol couple of Hill View High. Each is popular --
Kelly being on a number of teams and committees, and Bradley being on the football and
basketball teams -- and each of them knows exactly what to do in different situations. Didn’t
matter if they grew up as brother and sister – that fact was never brought up by them, for they
didn’t want to remember it. I didn’t blame them.
I sighed, glancing at my niece and her boyfriend. I've never seen Kelly so happy in her
life.
"Watch out, Kevin!" I heard a familiar young female voice exclaim.
I looked up to see a Frisbee whizzing in my direction, with Lesal DeRose and Miranda
English directly behind it. I ducked out of the direction of its path, not intending to be a human
target.
To my surprise, someone else came from behind me and caught it.
"Got it!" Craig Richardson, Andrea's younger brother, exclaimed from above my head.
He looked at me. "Sorry about that, Kevin. I'll tell Lesal and Miranda not to play around the
cuckoo's nest."
Craig smiled, giving his sister and me a friendly wink.

Allison “Allie” Ebony Watson

Age: 16 Position: Private Investigator

Scene from:
#35 Allie and the HVH Romance Epidemic (Disaster)

“This is simply humiliating!” I heard Cara Daniels exclaim. “I can’t take this much
abuse."
I paced myself over to the Snob Squad table, where I found Cara and her club, the
Unicorns, drooling over a picture of Zach Keiths, a singer/bassist for the European Harmony.
“What’s up, Cara?” I asked her with a smile.
She scowled at me. “None of your business.” She snapped.
Before either Unicorns or I could react, Rhiannon Bennington said to me with a smile,
“She’s just mad because both Ian and Josh turned her down for the Valentines’ Dance this
weekend.”
“Two in one sitting, huh Cara?” I asked good-natured, clapping. “Pretty impressive.”
Cara stuck her tongue out at me.
“Come on, Cara. I was only trying to --”
My sentence was interrupted by a familiar voice saying my name. “Allison Watson? Is
that you?”
I turned to see....
None other than Zach Keiths! What was he doing here -- in Hill View? Were the
European Harmony in town? “Hi, Zach.” I said cheerfully, blushing terribly. He was cuter than
I had ever seen him before. “What’s up?”
“Not much, Allison.” He said, and we smiled at each other.
Cara, who had been watching the whole scene gawking, finally spat out, “You know him,
Allie?”
I nodded. Cara, eat your heart out! I thought, smiling.
“Um, could I talk to you, Allison? Alone?” Zach asked.
“Sure.”
We left, and I could’ve sworn I saw Cara and the Unicorns staring after me, open-
mouthed.
 I led Zach to the courtyard.
“Like I said, Zach.” I started after he sat down on the table. “What’s up?”
“I have a huge announcement to make to the Bomb Squad, but I have to talk to you about
it first.” He began shyly.
"What about, Z-Man?" I asked, using his nick-name from the band. "What's the
announcement?"
He looked to the ground first. Then he looked back up at me. Looking into my eyes, he
kissed me gently on the lips!
"Must be important?" I told him shyly, blushing miserably.
He nodded, then said simply, "I've quit the band and moved here, where I grew up."
I blinked and did a double take. Did I hear him correctly? "You did what? Why?"
"I'm tired of every fan of mine hounding me wherever I went." He explained. "I haven't
finished high school yet, so I'm moving here to Hill View and coming to Hill View High. Isn't
that great?"
I didn't know what to say. What could I say? "What about Zenith, and the others?
Where are they going to get another bassist-slash-singer as fantastic as you?"
"I've had a lot of thinking time, Allison." Zach began. "I've also talked it over with my
brother, and he thinks it would be good for me to finish school. Then, if I wanted to, I could
rejoin the Cats'."
"Where are you staying?" I asked him, concerned.
He shrugged. "In a hotel for now.”
I got an idea. "If it's all right with my aunt Abby, you could stay with us. We have an
extra bedroom."
Zach looked up at me and smiled. Hugging me, he said, "I love you, Allison. You're the
greatest, you know that?"
I nodded, smiling back, and we kissed again. "Only, never call me Allison!" I cried,
laughing. "I hate it!"

Scene From:
Bomb Squad Mysteries: Case Entry: #80 Allie’s Wish

We all have secrets, and fortunately, we know them all.

Kelly Reading and her parents (mom, really) are known as Dream Realm Crusaders. She
tells us of the Dream Realm, and of what abilities she has. She can read minds, see the future,
and many others. I’ve seen it for myself, so I know she’s not lying.
Bradley Allen had been in love with Kelly since the day she started junior high at HVJH.
The two of them were raised as brother and sister, living next door to each other almost their
whole lives. He’s adopted, and his adopted dad, Aaron Schmidt, is Kelly’s real dad.
Kendra “KC” Clark has dyslexia, and can’t read. She has great organizational skills,
though. KC didn’t want anybody to know about it. When she finally did tell us, we understood,
and never stopped being her friends.
Steve Edwards and his twin Elizabeth (Liz) live on the other side of Kelly. Steve is
Kelly’s best friend with his own special crush on her. He also earns to be a cheerleader
someday. If not for the Hawkettes, someone else. Liz may be savvy and sophisticated on the
outside, but despite her bounding popularity, she’s lonely. Not even her childhood best friend,
Jessie Wilson can “cheer” this head cheerleader up.
 Lesal DeRose is no secret. She loves ballet, and will start stretching at the sound of pin
drop if she had to. Lesal’s real secret though is her Down’s Syndrome brother, Davis (Davey).
Hardly anyone knows about him, and she’d like to keep it that way.
Miranda English, the shy and sophisticated, has anorexia. Miranda holds her own,
though. When I say shy, I mean, SHY. She’ll get nervous enough to faint if you put her in front
of an audience. She’s okay with us, though.
Adam Smith, her boyfriend, loves science. His secret is to be a doctor someday, and
wants to hopefully run his own practice. Adam thinks he’s bad luck, every time a full moon is
out, or a Friday, the Thirteenth comes around. He’s ultra Superstitious.
Cara Richardson, Kelly’s best friend, is secretly jealous of Kelly. Kelly has the perfect
family, while Cara just has her older brother, Craig, and sister, Andrea. Cara’s parents died in a
car accident on the night of Andrea’s graduation.
Kirsten “Krysti” Farthay is a sports lover. Some would say she’s a fanatic. Her favorite
sport is hockey, and loves to root for the Detroit Red Wings whenever there’s a game. She
dresses and acts like a tomboy, but we don’t care.
The Parker twins are two of a kind, yet are identical opposites. Kimberly, nicknamed
Kymm, is the book-smart twin with “all the answers.” Carrie, since her dramatic run-in with a
guy in school we call the Beast, is a bit shy, and will hardly talk to anyone. We find this sad.
Kymm tries to make up for it by being both outgoing and a “nerd” all at the same time. She has
to make excuses for her sister, and that never helps matters any.
Peter Valentine may be a perfectionist, but he’s a softie at heart. He’s been secretly in
love with Miranda for a while, but has never gotten up the courage to ask her out. Now he’s lost
her to his best friend, Adam. He’s told only myself this, but he’s had his heart set on Samantha
West, his best friend, but is afraid to say anything to her. Secretly, though, he lives only with his
father, and misses him so. Sounds confusing, but Mr. Valentine is a big-time executive, and
does a lot of traveling.
Devin Jones was at first a bully to us, following in the footsteps of his friend, Richie
Carmichael (The Beast). Since Richie and Bradley fought, he’s been on the good side, and since
has joined his best friends Peter and Samantha West. His secret has been to hopefully find his
real mother. He lives with his step-mother and real father. He’s a basket-case, but we like him
enough to include him.
Samantha West, along with Devin, Krysti, Peter, and Johnny Kincaid (Richie’s side-kick)
had been the “Group” in middle school. They hung out with each other until Samantha moved.
Then, well, they went their separate ways. Samantha moved back from New York a while ago,
and secretly misses her mom, who still lives there. Her secret wish is to have things be the way
they were before she moved. Now, since KC has moved into her old house, and in on her best
friend Krysti, Samantha feels a little left out. She misses her old friendships. Hopefully, the
Bomb Squad will be able to remedy that.
On to Josh Stevenson, everyone’s favorite Hill View High Quarterback and Center
(basketball). He’s a bit of a confusing guy. For one, with all the sports he plays in, you’d think
he’d be the most popular of the gang. But he’s not. He’s only really known as Bradley’s best
friend and former crush of Kelly. (She didn’t think anyone really noticed once Bradley had to go
to New York for a while, just how much Josh and Kelly really looked and acted around each
other. You’d have to be blind not to.) Right now, he’s found his Juliet in Cara Richardson, his
old best friend and next-door neighbor. Anyway, Josh is more of a lonely jock then he cares to
admit. His secret wish is to fit in the club more than he does.
 Cassandra Kendricks, known as Cassie, is Miranda’s other best friend. She and Miranda
met during the play, “Romeo and Juliet” last year, and since had been close. They recently set
up their parents (Mandy’s dad and Cassie’s mom) to date. So far, it’s going great. Cassie’s
secret ambition in life is to be an actress. There isn’t really much the Bomb Squad really knows
about Cassie except what I told you. Usually, she tries to stay out of Club business.
Kelly’s mom’s younger cousin (hers too, I guess) Amanda Jo Applebee is one of us that
has been torn between staying with family (meaning being in the Bomb Squad with Kelly), or
being by herself (with the Unicorns, a rival clique in Hill View High). Her parents both were
killed in a car crash. They were hit by a drunk driver and were in the hospital for a while. Then,
sad as it was for her, they never regained consciousness. Amanda Jo is still in a deep depression,
and her moods change by the day. We’ve all welcomed her with open arms, and she still wants
to be alone most of the time, seeping deeper and deeper into her depression. I bet she wishes
everything was back to normal again, too.
Then there’s me. Allison Ebony Watson.
I’m sixteen, and I secretly want to be a rock singer. That’s why I wanted to run away
with the European Harmony when Zach left with them. That’s also why I write and direct our
club’s band, 2 Hot 4 U so seriously. I really loved show business. The lights, the cameras, the
action, the audience bowing to your every move and word. I loved it.
I write songs for myself mostly, but one day, Kelly was snooping around my room and
saw a song I wrote. Immediately, she wanted to know more about it. Would I sing it for her?
Would I want to sing it for the band? What was the origin of it?
At first, I was shy about it, and Kelly was forced by curiosity to read my mind. Then, I
was more than happy to tell her. In private, I sang “Precious Stones” to her in a capella. She
talked me into entering the school Talent Show-off. Kelly and Miranda entered with a duet for
clarinet and flute. Then, to my surprise, she invited me to sing the song with back-up with
Steve’s bass guitar, Bradley’s drums, and Kelly on keyboards. It was a smash, and I loved the
attention. I gleamed with excitement.
Big secrets harbor in the most strange of places (and people, for that matter.) No one in
our great club knows, not even my best friends. Sure, they have a clue, but they don’t really
know the extent. Zach is the only one who knew.
Zach Keiths was the coolest. He fell in love with me, and I was falling in love with him.
I feel sparks whenever I’m near him, but I’ll never forget those last days of school before spring
break last year.
I’m sorry to say Zach no longer lives in our basement. He was just here for the rest of the
school year, and he was back on the road with his band, The European Harmony faster than you
could say “hyper-speed.”
I missed him, and his brother Zenith. Zenith was the one that taught me the real story of
rock and roll. He was the one that let me in on their jam session, and Zach was the one that
discovered me. Their band manager, Mr. Tony Short saw that I had talent, and wanted me to
tour with them. I never told the club this, though.
Ever since then, I’ve secretly wanted to be a singer for a band.
If it was up to me, Kelly would be back up for me, and not the other way around.