Whispers of Bedlam Asylum (Sigmund Shaw Book 2) Read Free Page A

asked Alexis.
     
    “Well, I’m assuming that there will be a telegram at my flat as well. But to answer your question, it is to remind me of the consequences of not fulfilling the obligation of the favor.”
     
    “Uncle, I don’t understand. What consequences?”
     
    A deep breath – either to gather courage to answer the question or to stall, Sigmund wasn’t sure, but he was certain that he didn’t want to answer the question. Why did Ferriss need to drag them in like this? With a half-hearted smile towards his niece, he continued, “Doctor Ferriss made it clear that if I did not do his favor, then he would hurt my family, he threatened death.”
     
    The room became very quiet, except for the crackling of the fire and the sounds of the storm. A long second or two ticked by until Alexis broke the silence, “Oh Sigmund! What are we going to do?”
     
    “Surely Chief Inspector Holmes can assist us.” exclaimed Jamison.
     
    Using his most reassuring tone, Sigmund said, “I understand everyone’s concern, but the answer is simple. I will find out what the favor is and then do it. That will put an end to this and no one will be harmed.”
     
    “Uncle!” cried Sarah. “You shouldn’t owe this doctor! You were not guilty of anything!”
     
    “I know,” soothed Sigmund, “But I made an agreement, and I will repay it.” Then, looking around the room, he said, “The threat against all of you is much out of line, and very much superfluous. I will visit Doctor Ferriss soon and probably have this favor behind me, behind us, within a day or two.”
     
    There was another silence as Sigmund’s family tried to think of alternatives. But, in the end, each one came to the same conclusion – the best answer was to do what Dr. Ferriss asked.
     
    “Can I help?” asked Jamison in a serious tone.
     
    “I hope not,” answered Sigmund. “I would prefer to not involve anyone else. That said, I do not know what the favor is or if it will require any assistance. However, I do appreciate the offer.”
     
    “I’ll help!” Sarah added with determination.
     
    “Sarah!” Alexis cried. “You will certainly not help!”
     
    “But, mother!”
     
    “Hold on, everyone,” Sigmund interjected, “We still don’t know what the favor is. It is unlikely that he will be asking anything that will involve more than just myself.” Then, looking at Sarah, “My dear Sarah, thank you for your offer. I know you would help me, you brave, remarkable girl.” Then, to all of them, “Please, put your minds at rest. This will all be over soon and no one is going to be harmed.”
     
     
    The remainder of the evening went by with an unnatural quietness. The usual conversations and laughter were replaced by contemplation and solemnness.
     
    When Sigmund was ready to depart, he stopped by Sarah’s room – as he always did before leaving – to say goodnight. She had been put to bed a little earlier and as usual, except for the most active of days, she was awake for his farewell. Her eyes shown wide in the light from the hallway as he entered the room.
     
    He kneeled next to her bed, so that they were at an even level with each other, and Sarah said, “Uncle, I know you said that we shouldn’t worry, but I can’t help it.” Her eyes glistened with the beginning of worrisome tears.
     
    “Sarah, listen, I know I cannot stop you completely from worrying, for love demands that we fear for those we care about, but I believe that we have made too much out of this. Don’t people ask other people for favors all the time?
     
    “Well, yes.”
     
    “And do they have concerns over trying to accomplish the favor?”
     
    “No, not that I’m aware of.”
     
    “You see! This is no different. Now, get some sleep and before you know it, this will just be a memory.”
     
    It looked like Sarah wanted to believe him, but she finally said, in her most skeptical voice, “I’ll try.” She then lunged and threw her arms around him