Another Day In Paradise - By Nateesha Kaur Gill

Written By: Nateesha Kaur Gill

Category: Mystery and Thriller

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Nateesha Kaur Gill's short story, "Another Day In Paradise," is a compelling entry in the Mystery and Thriller category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar. This story captures the reader’s imagination with its intricate plot and emotional depth. Set against the backdrop of a seemingly idyllic life, it explores themes of love, betrayal, and the unseen shadows that lurk behind closed doors.

About the Work

"Another Day In Paradise" weaves a narrative rich in suspense and emotional complexity. The story unfolds through vivid imagery and a gripping plot, drawing readers into a world where love meets mystery. The protagonist's journey is marked by unexpected twists, leading to a crescendo of revelations that challenge perceptions of trust and reality. Nateesha Kaur Gill skillfully blends elements of romance and thriller, creating an atmosphere of tension and poignancy.

Another Day In Paradise

Original Submission by Nateesha Kaur Gill

I walked in and sat down. I sighed and looked around. The quiet was unwelcoming. It felt like I was the last person on earth, all alone. I looked at the picture on the mantle, open the music box, sat on the couch and softly asked myself, “Why?” and closed my eyes and drifted off to sleep while the box played a slow tune of “Another Day In Paradise” by Phil Collins.

It was 5 years ago when I first saw Isabelle. How many people would actually find their soulmate at a wedding and just how cliched does that sound? Well, that was precisely how I felt when I saw her. I knew she was going to be my soulmate. I was always known as someone who is introverted. I was never confident. In school, I was the nerd with thick, black glasses, hiding behind Chemistry and Mathematics books. In college, I was the quiet student who people only befriended when it was time to complete assignments. Then I started working. I made some friends who could understand how I am as a person as they were just like me.

Andrew, a friend of mine at work, invited me to his wedding which was to be held on an island. I was hesitant to attend, simply because I hated small talk. I did not know what to talk about to people I hardly even knew. So, I was not going to attend the wedding. Or so I thought. My mother found out about the wedding and called me to force me to attend it, saying that something good is about to happen for me. Boy was she right! And so, I went for the wedding with zero interest in it, oblivious to the fact that something good was surely going to happen.

Upon reaching the luxurious resort at the island, I was slowly starting to forget how unhappy I was about attending the wedding. I felt the cool sea breeze on my face and felt contented for once. Andrew and his wife-to-be, Alice, greeted me warmly and I felt instantly welcomed. I checked myself in and went to the room and kept my bags down. I walked out to the balcony and saw the view. Breathtaking. The sun was setting and there was a golden hue all over the ocean. Just then, I heard some laughter coming from the other side. I decided to ignore it although that was all I could hear in my mind now. I saw the time and realised that I must get ready for the rehearsal dinner. So, I showered and put on my best-looking dinner jacket and head downstairs. In the elevator, I saw my reflection in the mirror and still saw the nerd I was in my current not-so-thick glasses. The doors opened and I walked towards the function hall. As I walked in, I exchanged pleasantries with some of the people I know from work and then I sat at the bar.

“Whiskey, neat, please,” I asked the bartender.

As I took a sip of the smooth Macallan 25, I suddenly heard the same laughter coming from the other end of the bar and I turned to see who it was. Only this time the laughter sounded more melodic and infectious than earlier. There she was, laughing away with a group of people who I could not recognise. If love at first sight was a thing, this was it. I felt something I have never felt before in a long time. I felt happy.

I found out who she was from Andrew as he caught me staring at her. He told me that she is his cousin and that she is an excellent paediatrician at the children's hospital. As for her looks, all I could make out from this distance was that she has long, brown hair and she looks so radiant that people are naturally drawn to her as she has the vibe that is inexplainable. I felt like I was falling for her even more. Andrew introduced me to her.

“Hi, I am Ted,”and then I was at a loss for words.

She laughed again and said, “Hello, I’m Isabelle.”

We got to talking about life, work, and hobbies and that was when I found out that Isabelle was also a secret fan of Phil Collins, the singer. I felt it in my heart that Isabelle is the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with.

We sat and talked about everything, and I felt like Isabelle was the one person who would never judge me for my taste and my opinions. Each time she laughed, my world felt so much brighter. We then saw that it was half past three in the morning, so we retired to our own rooms. I could not sleep the entire time I was in bed and the next thing I know it was the morning of the wedding festivities. I got up and quickly got dressed in the best suit I brought. Thankfully, I have a good taste in clothes. I went downstairs and walked towards the beach where the wedding was taking place and I saw Isabelle, in a beautiful yellow dress.

She smiled and waved at me. The wedding ceremony was beautifully executed and then came the reception. Funniest thing was that Isabelle was the one who asked me to dance at the reception. We danced and laughed even more. For once, I believed that I could be happy too. And just as luck would have it, “Another Day In Paradise” by Phil Collins started playing. We were both pleasantly surprised and laughed and danced to it. I knew instantly that this would be our song.

Time flew by and it was already three years since I asked Isabelle to marry me. We live in a beautiful home with our dogs, Koko, and Miko. Isabelle was busy at work as a successful paediatrician, and I was busy in my law firm. Yes, I am a lawyer. An introverted lawyer who has won several cases in criminal justice. And a lawyer who hates small talk. Yes, I am aware of the irony. Only thing that became even more ironical was that I did not know that my next case was going to be related to Isabelle.

It was the day that would change my life forever. Usually, we both wake up at the first ring of the alarm at 7 a.m. and smile at each other. It was a routine that felt homey. Except today, Isabelle did not wake up at the first ring of the alarm. I saw that she was still asleep, her face looking more tired than usual and I thought that she had a long day yesterday at the hospital. I gently nudged her and she woke up but she did not smile. She looked like she did not want to wake up if I was reading her face well.

“Good morning, sunshine,” I greeted her, and she just gave me a tired smile. “Isabelle, honey, are you okay?” I asked her.

And she nodded and woke up and went straight to the bathroom. I did not think much of it and went downstairs to brew a pot of coffee. I like making my coffee in a moka pot because the fragrance of the brewing coffee powder is just out of this world. Imagine my surprise when I found out Isabelle did too. She came downstairs, packed her bags, and gave me a wave and before I could offer her some coffee, she was already at the door.

I asked her, “Isabelle, your coffee?” and she just said “I will stop by the cafeteria at the hospital later. Got to rush, sorry.” And off she went.

I was a little worried about her today but thought I would drop her a text later to check on her. I got ready and left for work. I walked into my office around 9 a.m., and I saw a manila envelope on my desk.

“Nance, what did you leave on my table?” I asked Nancy, and she looked at me all puzzled.

“I haven’t been into your office, boss,” she answered.

I was a little concerned. I then opened the envelope and saw pictures of Isabelle. Isabelle at the hospital, Isabelle in the car, Isabelle talking to the children at the ward, Isabelle laughing her usual happy laugh, Isabelle outside our home and Isabelle walking Koko and Miko at the park. Inside, there was a note as well. I opened it and felt the blood draining from my face as I read the words. “How well do you know her?” At that moment, my heart sank. In a state of panic, I reached for my phone and dialled Isabelle’s number. I heard the ringing tone for a few times before my call was disconnected. I tried calling again, and my call was disconnected again at the second ring itself. I knew something was off.

I sent her a text message,

“Call me back when you see this, please.”

I waited for approximately 10 minutes and still, she did not respond, which is quite out of character for her.

“Hold my meetings for today, Nance. I have to leave for some urgent meeting now,” I told Nancy.

“Got it, boss!” she replied.

Nancy is the best employee I have ever hired. She has at least 20 years of experience in being a secretary but unlimited number of years in being the best person who handles my law firm and my moods amazingly well. Did I mention she was in her late 50s? Yes, that is how good she is.

I made my way to the hospital. I saw some familiar faces at the nurses’ counter. “Hey, Linds, by any chance you know where Izzy is? I need to see her,” I asked Linda, the paediatric nurse manager, who is also Isabelle’s best friend. Also, most of them at the hospital call Isabelle, Izzy. My beautiful Dr. Izzy.

“Hi, Ted! Yes, she’s on call now. I saw her at the ward earlier. I’ll buzz her. Wait.” Linda replied. “Call Dr. Izzy,” the device beeped as it connects. No response. “Call Dr. Izzy,” Linda repeated.

The device beeped again and dead silence. She looked a little concerned at the lack of response and then tried to call Isabelle on her mobile and put it on speaker. “This is the voicemail box of ….” And Linda disconnected the call.

“This is weird,” she uttered. “I will go look for her. Wait here, okay,” she told me and she left. I waited for what felt like an eternity and Linda returned only to tell me, “Someone saw her leaving the hospital in a rush about 15 minutes ago.” Now, I am scared for real.

“Where are you, Isabelle?” I texted her. Single tick. Unread.

“Isabelle?” I sent another text. Single tick. Unread.

I went to the carpark to find her car. It was not there. I went towards my car and got in. As a lawyer dealing with lots of criminal cases, I am always wary on our safety. I put a GPS tracking device in the hood of Isabelle’s SUV when I bought her the car. I turned on the app and tried to see the location of the car. It was 5 minutes from where I currently am. I drove there. I saw Isabelle’s car and parked right behind her and got out and went to her. It was empty. My heart sank again. I tried to see in the car and saw her mobile at the passenger seat. The doors were unlocked and again this was out of character for the ever so responsible Isabelle. I opened the door, took her phone, and saw my missed calls and unread texts, as well as those from Linda, her doctor friends, Mel and Sybil, and some calls and a text from an unknown number. I opened the text from the unknown number. “I will tell him.” That was it. One sentence, four words.

Tell me what? Am I the “him” in the text? Or is it someone else? Is this related to the pictures I received at work? What is happening right now? My mind is racing frantically. My heart is anxious. My palms are sweaty. The worst part of all? My safe space, my Isabelle, is missing. I did not know what to do. For once, I could not be the sharp lawyer I thought I was. I sat on the curb, next to Isabelle’s car. That was when my phone rang. “Unknown Caller” it read on the screen. I answered.

“Hello?”

“Hi, Ted,” a familiar voice said.

“Isabelle! Where are you? What is going on?” “I am so sorry.” And the line got cut.

“Ted. Do you know what I like most about you? Your glasses. When you put them on, you look like the most serious lawyer in the world. I like how your eyes shimmer behind those lenses. I like how when we hug, I can only reach your chest. I can hear your heartbeat, and it makes me feel safe. You’re a wonderful man, Ted. I know I will wake up every morning feeling like the happiest person ever. And it’s all because of you. Thank you for choosing me as your wife, your friend, and your soulmate. In sickness and in health. Till death do us part.” The words replayed in my mind. This was what Isabelle said to me in her wedding vows.

“Where are you, Isabelle?” I whispered. I let out a long sigh, stood up, and walked towards my car. I took out my phone and called my PI, Jim, an ex-police officer, to get him to try to find Isabelle or at least some information that I could use, while I get the pictures from my office to try and make some sense of what was going on.

While driving to the office, I received a text from an unknown number.

“I know where your wife is. 9pm tonight. Rosebush Park. Come alone.”

I shivered upon reading the text. I looked at my watch and saw that it was only 1.32 p.m. and I drove home instead. I kept looking at the time, but each passing minute felt like an eternity. As I walked into our home, Koko and Miko came running towards me. They were happily barking and jumping at me, but my heart was pounding and I could not stop panicking. To distract myself temporarily, I poured them a fresh bowl of water and food, and they chugged on it happily. Unbeknownst to them that their beloved Isabelle is missing, they wagged their tails happily while munching. I looked at our pictures on the mantle and we looked so happy. The music box I gave Isabelle as an anniversary surprise which plays our song was glistening as the sun ray touches it. I opened it and listened to the tune of “Another Day In Paradise.” Each passing minute was pure torture and a reminder that Isabelle is still missing. I then decided to go to my office and look through the pictures again. I drove there and parked at my usual spot. I walked into my office and saw Nancy typing away on the keyboard.

“All good, boss?” she asked and I nodded and went to my room.

I looked through the pictures but could not find anything. Not even a tiny clue or anything. All I could see was her beautiful smile in the pictures. I felt completely helpless and useless. I could not think straight and felt like I was betraying Isabelle by being unable to find her.

I called Jim and he was still trying to gather intel. I looked at my watch, and it was 4.25 p.m. I had no choice but to frantically pace around till it was time to leave for Rosebush Park. I took out Isabelle’s phone to see if I could find anything in it but there was nothing unusual apart from the text from the unknown sender. Our wedding picture on her screensaver made it harder for me to think straight. Around 7 p.m., I started my drive there as I could not wait anymore. Upon reaching, I got out of the car, walked towards the bench at the park, and sat down. I took my phone out and went through my gallery. At this time yesterday, we were having dinner at our favourite Italian restaurant. Funny how things can change in just 24 hours. My heart sank to the lowest possible level. Around 8.45 p.m., I saw someone walking towards me. To my horror, I saw the one person who I completely did not expect seeing here.

“Hi, Ted.”

“Linda?”

And she sat down next to me.

“What the hell is going on, Linda?!” I stood up and yelled. I felt like I was losing my mind. But Linda, she looked strangely calm.

“Sit down,” she said in a casual tone. I sat down next to her. “Firstly, I want to tell you that Izzy is fine. But her job isn’t,” she said calmly.

“What do you mean? Where exactly is Izzy and why can’t I see her? She is my wife! I have every right to know what is going on!” I demanded, my hands trembling as I fear the worst is yet to come.

She let out a small sigh and said, "Izzy is not who you think she is. She is an excellent paediatrician, a doting wife, and an amazing woman thriving in her own world. But there is a dark side to her. The side that you don’t know about, but I do,” she explained.

You know how people say, “My world came crashing down?” This is exactly what I am feeling right now.

I met Linda for the first time at the hospital when I went to pick Isabelle up for a date after her shift. It was at the brightly lit corridor where I was waiting for Isabelle, when I bumped into her. I knew about Linda as Isabelle has told me about her a few times previously. Linda has been a mentor to Isabelle ever since Isabelle joined the children’s hospital around 9 years ago. When I bumped into her, she went,

“Hey, you’re Ted, right? Izzy has told me all about you. Please be kind to her. She is like a sister to me.”

I smiled, nodded, and told her not to worry as Isabelle means the world to me. Since then, we have been close friends but obviously she has more affection for Isabelle. Which made me shudder thinking about what I am about to hear next.

“Linda, I need you to be upfront about the whole thing. It’s about Isabelle and I have never compromised on her safety. Tell me the truth now,” I demanded as I snapped back into reality.

Just as Linda was about to tell me, I received a text from Jim.

“Linda compromised. Talk later.”

I could actually hear my heart beating loudly at this moment. But the lawyer in me decided to play it safe now. I composed myself, removing the look of sheer terror from my face and trying to read Linda’s face and body language.

“Who was it?” she asked me.

“Work. I cannot get into it now. I want to know what is going on, so talk,” I replied.

“You know the fact that I have known Izzy for a long time now, right, and that I would do anything in my power to save her? The problem is, she’s into some real shady stuff at the hospital,” she explained. “Izzy was caught stealing precious organs from deceased children and the board members have caught whiff on this. Hence, she ran away,” she continued, while looking quite composed, even after revealing such a bomb of an information. At that moment, I went pale. My ears could not believe this preposterous fact about my beloved wife.

“Isabelle can never do such thing!” I yelled. “You and the board members are bloody foolish to think that way over Isabelle! She took care of all her patients. She nurtured them. There is no way this could be the truth.” I was devastated. This can’t be it.

“I am not done,” she suddenly said. What else is there apart from this? What more do I need to hear about my Isabelle that would break me further? “What is it?” I asked. “She’s involved with the cartel,” Linda whispered.

I was horrified. I leaned back on the bench, while looking up at the skies. It was a quiet night but hearing all these about Isabelle has created a lot of noise in my mind. I sighed, but now I know I need to do everything in my power to bring her back since the stakes are higher and her life is definitely in danger.

“But where is she now? I need to talk to her,” I asked Linda urgently.

“She is safe, and that is all I can tell you now,” she answered simply.

“Why is it that I cannot talk to her?! She is my wife and I can help her!” I raised my voice as I am feeling rage more than worry now. Just as I was about to rage even more against Linda, my phone beeped again.

“I know where Isabelle is. Call me when you get this.” It was a text from Jim.

Since Linda is reluctant to let me meet her, I cannot let her know that Jim knows where Isabelle is.

“I want you to tell me when I can see Isabelle. Know that I am the only one who can save her from this whole ordeal,” I ordered Linda. I got up and stormed off in disbelief, my face red with anger. Only, I did not know what angered me most, my wife’s reluctance to confide in me or Linda’s direct refusal to tell me where Isabelle is.

I called Jim immediately after getting into my car. I drove off as I did not want to make Linda suspicious by sitting and talking in my car.

“Talk,” I said when he answered.

“It was hard to locate her. She went AWOL and none of her colleagues knew, except one that was rather shifty. I contacted a buddy at the force and he contacted a few people. All I know now is Linda is behind everything. I cornered the colleague at the carpark who sang like a bird about everything that went down at the hospital. I’ll get into that later. For now, head to 14, Belling’s St. She’s there. I can see her and she doesn’t look good,” Jim explained and I made a mad dash towards her.

I ran at least 3 red lights and thought that I was going to be pulled over by cops but thankfully I made it to Belling’s St without any trouble. I saw Jim and asked him where Isabelle is, and he pointed to an old and worn-out looking building. I could feel my pulse rate rising rapidly. I told Jim to stay here and alert me if anyone comes.

“Go get her,” he said. And that was what I did. I ran towards the building, knocked on the door and when it opened, I saw her. There she was, my Isabelle.

Her eyes were tired which I can only assume is because of all the crying she did. I could hardly recognise her as she was ashen and pale, and despite seeing her this morning, it was like a whole different person was standing in front of me. Tears filled her eyes as she hugged me and yelled out a loud sob. I sighed as I was finally relieved to have Isabelle in my arms again. She held my arm and pulled me into the house. But, I stopped her.

“Follow me,” I instructed Isabelle.

“Huh?” She looked at me, puzzled and worried.

“I can explain but not now. Come with me before someone else gets here.” I took her arm and pulled her outside. She followed me silently, her eyes welled up again. “Isabelle, honey, you have to trust me, okay?”

And she nodded silently. We got into the car, and I told Jim to follow us and meet us at my office. Jim followed, leaving a distance of a few cars in between just to see if someone was following us. Thankfully, we got to my office safely.

As we sat down, I gave Isabelle my coat as she was shivering, which I feel is from both the cold and the fear.

“Isabelle, you need to tell me everything. I need to know what happened from the start right until before I got to you. Don’t leave anything out. I want every single detail to be laid out as specifically as you can remember,” I told her calmly.

In situations like this, details are of the utmost importance as they can be easily twisted and manipulated if fallen into the wrong hands. Isabelle let out a long sigh before she began to explain.

“The whole thing started when Geoffrey passed,” she slowly began, with a teary eye. Geoffrey was a nine-year-old who had leukaemia. He was Isabelle’s favourite patient, who she saw more as a family member than a patient. When he passed away somewhere around midnight and Linda called Isabelle to inform, she was hysterical. She did not attend the funeral as she felt such despair at the thought of being unable to save his life. I took her away for a short getaway to make her feel better, but she was crying throughout the trip, until I told her to say goodbye to him and let him rest when I took her to his grave upon returning from the trip.

“When Linda called me to tell that Geoffrey had passed away, I should have gone to the hospital. He was cut open and his vital organs were taken out. His family didn’t know. Sybil told me this. I asked Sybil if she knew who was behind it, but she denied knowing anything else. She knew this because she went to the morgue when she heard he passed away and was sent there. Then I asked Linda if she knew about this. Linda pulled me to the janitor's room and quietly told me I am not to say or ask anything about this matter as the chairman of the board in the hospital is involved with the cartel in selling the organs illegally. She said she had known about this for a while and is trying to gather information about it before going to the police. But when I went to work yesterday, the board members called me into the office and asked me questions like as if I was behind everything! Today, when I walked into the hospital, Linda came to the ward and told me that I am being prosecuted by the hospital for my involvement with the cartel. She told me to lay low and sent me away to her sister's place that’s currently empty. The one where you found me just now. I swear I wanted to call you, but Linda said if I did, the cartel would go after you as the board has all your details. I called you earlier to tell you the truth but all I could say was I am sorry. I am sorry, Ted... I know I broke your trust by hiding this from you,” she said while tearing up.

I stood up and walked over to Isabelle. I held her hands and pulled her up into my arms. I hugged her and cried even more. All I could think about in my mind was that it is time for Linda to cry now.

“Isabelle, there is one more thing you need to tell me,” I said, gently pulling away from the embrace. “Why did you leave your car unlocked and your phone on the passenger seat? Also, whose phone did you use when you called me and said you were sorry?” I asked Isabelle, as this thought crossed my mind suddenly.

“When Linda came to tell me that the board is going to prosecute me, I went to the carpark to get my car and leave for Linda’s sister’s house, just as she instructed me to. As I drove off, Linda called me saying that the cartel has my car details and is tracing my phone. She told me to leave my car at the roadside, unlocked, with my phone in it and take a cab instead. She told me there is a mobile phone I could use at the house to call her, but I am strictly not allowed to call you and tell you anything about this as I could put you in danger. But my heart broke when I couldn’t speak to you so I called you up but all I could say was that I am sorry,” she explained.

I hugged her tighter and did not let go for some time.

I told her to rest on the couch in my office as I stepped outside with Jim.

“Is Sybil the one you met at the hospital?” I asked Jim. He nodded.

“Then, you need to get someone to keep an eye on her. If Linda finds out that she spoke to you, she could be in danger. Also, get someone to follow Linda. You can’t be the one to follow her as she might recognise you. I need to know where she goes and who she is dealing with. There’s some cash in the drawer. Take it and give it to your men. I need answers fast,” I instructed Jim and off he went to get me some intel.

I went into my office and locked the door. I sat down next to Isabelle who then got up and lay down on my chest. I held her tightly.

“I’m here now. No one can hurt you anymore,” I told Isabelle as she slowly drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, I woke up and saw Isabelle still sleeping soundly. This time, she looked peaceful. I got up and went to my desk. Checked my phone for text messages and there were 2 from Jim, “Got someone behind S and L. Looks safe for now.”

And another one “Check your email.”

I turned on my computer and went straight to my mailbox. I saw an email from Jim titled “Urgent.” I opened it and saw pictures of Linda and some unknown men. She was holding a medical transport box. The men looked tough and rather intimidating, undoubtedly the cartel members. But I shuddered when I saw the box. The thought that the box probably contains organs taken from young, innocent children churned my stomach and I felt sick. Looking at the pictures gave me an idea on how I could trap Linda and save Isabelle. But first, I needed Isabelle ready for my double-pronged attack.

I woke Isabelle up, and she smiled. I was glad to see her feeling slightly better. I made her coffee from the coffee machine we have in the office, and she drank it in silence. I heard some rumbling sounds outside my room and went to see, and it was Nancy. I startled her as she did not expect to see me there this early.

“Hold my calls for today, Nance. I have to prepare for a deposition,” I instructed her.

“What deposition? Which case is this for?” she asked, and I just told her,

“There’s a new client. I need to be ready for a big case.”

She nodded in acceptance but looked quite puzzled as well. I went into my office and sat Isabelle down to explain to her what she needed to do.

I called Linda up and told her I needed to talk to her. She told me to meet her at 8 p.m. at the café opposite the hospital. I then told Isabelle to be ready as things could get ugly once I met Linda. She nodded tiredly and sighed. I told Nance to order some food, and she was shocked at the amount of food I told her to order, and I just told her I had not eaten since last night. When the food arrived, Isabelle and I ate in silence. I know she was feeling very disturbed at the whole thing, and I did not want to make her feel like she was answerable to me over things. I sat at the table and worked on some cases while waiting for 8 p.m. to come. When I built the office a couple of years ago, thankfully I had built a washroom inside my office with a walk-in wardrobe equipped with some clothes for both Isabelle and myself as we have had sudden spontaneous dates and I could change suits after court before meeting other clients for events. So, around 7 p.m., I showered and changed into fresh clothes, which I then realised I had been wearing since the day before, and Isabelle freshened up and changed as well. I told her to be ready for my call, and I left at about 7.35 p.m. I parked outside the café and went to get us a table. Linda walked in at exactly 8.02 p.m.

“I know you’re wondering why I called you here,” I said to Linda.

“I know you are under a lot of pressure and finding Isabelle is important to you,” she said. By saying this, I knew that she is unaware of the fact that Isabelle is safe with me.

“Yes, I need to know where she is. I found something that could help get her out of this and you are the only one who knows where she is now,” I said. I noticed that her lips trembled slightly and the look of guilt became a little more obvious on her.

“What did you find?” She asked.

“I found some files and pictures, and I know who did it. I know who is behind this whole thing, and I need you to tell me where Isabelle is,” I continued.

“Why, yes, about that,” she mumbled, “Who is behind it if not Isabelle?” she asked.

“I am not at liberty to discuss that with you until you tell me what you know about this case and where Isabelle is,” I told her coldly.

“Ted, you have to believe that I am trying to save Isabelle, hence I am not telling you her whereabouts. But I can take you there, only if you promise to tell me what you know about this case,” she said and I nodded.

“Okay, take me to her now.” I told her and we left the café.

As we reached her sister’s place, she walked to the door and unlocked it and when she opened the door, she frowned. Isabelle was standing at the living area but in a change of clothes. Linda looked at me, I told her to go inside, and I closed the door.

“You played me, didn’t you?” She asked me.

“Actually Linda, I did nothing of that sort. If anything, you played yourself. I can still help you, only if you tell me the truth, and nothing but the truth,” I responded coldly, while sitting down next to Isabelle. Linda looked like she had seen a ghost, as she was pale as paper. She sighed and sat down.

“Ted, you don’t know what you are getting into. These are dangerous people and you are venturing into uncharted territory. You think they don’t know who you are? They know everything,” she started explaining.

“Just tell the truth, Linda!” Isabelle interjected and I held her hand. She sighed and started talking.

“I made a deal with the cartel a couple of years ago to provide them with the necessary organs, and they would compensate me accordingly. It started with one and then I was offered more money, and I fell deeper into it. This is actually not my sister’s place but mine. I have a few properties that I leased because I knew that they would come in handy if I ever got caught. I came close to it once and had to use Isabelle as a scapegoat as she was the one who interacted with the kids more. It was easier to make them believe she did it. All I had to do was create suspicions and they ate it up. It was easier as one of the members of the board of directors was also involved so we worked together easily and I got access to the organs and the medical transport boxes easily. Also, Ian, the morgue worker, was helping me,” she confessed.

I could see Isabelle turning red in anger and disbelief.

“You know you can be safe if you cooperate with me. Be a witness and I can guarantee you that nothing will go wrong. All you have to do is speak up and we can take it from there. You don’t have to run from the cartel if you gave me names,” I offered.

“Names?! What do you think I am? A fool?! They would slaughter me and feed me to the pigs if they knew I gave you names!” she yelled.

“Well, I could also send you to the feds right this minute and you could give them the names instead,” I said while shrugging.

She sighed and chuckled. “Oh Isabelle, why did you have to marry a lawyer? Do you think everything will be all good and perfect after this? That you could go home and be all the same all over again? Poor little Isabelle, boo hoo!” she rudely said.

“Linda, what did I do to you that you had to use me as a scapegoat? Haven’t I been a good friend to you? You called me your little sister. How could you do this to me? And doing that to Geoffrey? You are sick!” Isabelle shouted, angrily.

“You were an easy target, Isabelle. With your silly grin, your good heart, and your pretty face, it was like taking candy from a baby! You just think you’re a great doctor who is saving lives. No! You are nothing!” she shouted. “And Geoffrey, he was already sick. What did you want me to do? His organs were still working well. Someone else could use them. If anything, I was helping others instead of you! I am giving them a chance to live unlike you!” She continued, while flailing her arms around trying to make a point.

I stood up slowly. “So, I guess you’re not going to talk then? Not going to give me the names?” I asked.

“Hell no!” She yelled.

And just then, there was a gunshot.

I pulled Isabelle towards me, and we hid behind the wall.

“What the heck is that?” Linda screamed.

“I think your friends are here now that they know you are talking to me!” I yelled to her, while panicking about Isabelle’s safety.

“I’ll talk! I’ll give you the names, just get me out of here! Please! I don’t want to die!” She yelled.

I stood up, pulled Isabelle towards me, and told Linda, “Come with us, we cannot stay here.”

I checked if there was anyone outside the house and quickly took them to my car and drove off. We went to my office.

“It’s the Los Brotherhood Network Ring. Their boss is Joseph. His right-hand man is Paolo. He is the one who collects the medical transport boxes from me once I get the organs in them. But I only have his details. I don’t deal directly with Joseph. I have never even seen Joseph before. And the board member that is involved is Richard. He is the one who offered me the job and I accepted. Now tell me what you can do for me. I want to get out of this. I don’t want to die,” Linda confessed while sighing.

She took a sip from the coffee I made her and then continued talking.

“I can also give you the details of where we usually meet. If that’s what you want. In fact, I am supposed to meet Paolo tonight. He will meet me each time he needs a new delivery. We do not talk on the phone. We meet at Chile Restaurant, which also belongs to them. I receive the order and then try to secure the organs soon. It’s not easy as we have to wait for kids to, you know..” she said.

We all knew what she meant, a chill ran through my spine, and I had goosebumps at the evil that was Linda.

“You need to tell this to my friend, and he will help you get into witness protection. Our aim now is to ensure your safety. My friend is on the way here and I need you to repeat whatever you told us to him. Understand?” I asked.

Linda nodded tiredly. Just then, there was a knock on the door.

“Come in,” I said.

Reid, a friend in the same field as me, walked in.

“Reid, this is Linda, the one I was telling you about,” I said.

“Hi, Ted told me about the case. Rest assured, you will get the help you need by being a high-profile case witness,” Reid assured Linda.

“What witness? I don’t even know what they are talking about! I am being held hostage here! It’s this woman! She is the one involved in the organ trafficking syndicate. She is a disgrace to the hospital!” Linda suddenly exclaimed.

“Linda, what are you saying? You just admitted to the whole thing earlier on to Ted and I, so why are you changing your answer now?” Isabelle asked, shocked at the sudden change in Linda’s behaviour.

“Linda, you might have forgotten about who I am and what I can actually do,” I spoke up, calmly. “Jim, come in here now,” I instructed. Jim walks in.

“Linda, this is Jim. I believe you have seen him before,” I continued.

“What is this about?” Linda asked.

“Well, Linda, this is the “cartel” who shot at us earlier today. I knew it would be difficult to get you to talk, so I had to get creative. As for your confession? It has been recorded by that camera, that camera and that camera!” I said, pointing towards 3 CCTV cameras I have in my office.

Linda became paler than a ghost and she looked like she was about to pass out from the shocking revelation.

“Also, Reid here is an undercover agent with the federal government, and he will take you along with him for further investigations,” I casually told Linda.

“But why did you betray me like this? You were supposed to help me!” Linda cried, her face red with anger and helplessness.

“Betray? Linda you are lucky I didn’t just put a hit on you for the shit you made Isabelle go through! Now, leave us alone, and pray you are not thrown into solitary confinement. Take her away, Reid.” I instructed.

He grabbed her arms and walked her out of the office, while she was wailing away.

“What’s next on the list, boss?” Jim asked.

“We go for the sharks,” I casually said.

Dr. Richard Jensen was about to get the surprise of a lifetime. In order for me to get Richard and Paolo together, I had to devise another plan. At any minute now Richard will be getting a phone call from the cartel and will be asked to come to Casa Horchata Restaurant if he wants to see his wife and kids again. Jim is notorious for making anonymous calls as such. I snagged Linda’s burner phone when the gunshot happened. She was unaware of the missing phone. So, we texted Paolo on the change of location as I cannot get them to come to Chile Restaurant as their people could be all over the restaurant and I might not make it out alive. I sat at the booth waiting for Richard, and Jim was at the other side of the restaurant, waiting and keeping an eye on things in case the whole thing goes south. Just then, Richard walked in. He sat at the booth behind me. Few minutes later, Paolo walked in. They looked at each other in confusion. Paolo went up to Richard and asked him what he was doing there and where was Linda. Richard stood up in anger and grabbed Paolo by his collar, demanding to know where his wife and kids were. That was my cue.

“Hi, I called you both here,” I said casually.

“Who are you? You have no idea who I am and what I can do,” threatened Paolo.

“Sit down. Both of you,” I instructed them. They were reluctant but then Jim came and stood next to me, while flashing the gun in his holster. Unloaded, obviously, just as a scare tactic.

And they sat down.

“I am Ted, Isabelle’s husband,” I introduced myself to both and Richard became anxious.

“I don’t care who you are! What the heck is going on here?” Paolo demanded to know.

“Well, I’m the one who will make your life a living hell should you keep on talking,” I said, with a smile on my face, and he kept quiet.

“So, now that I have you both here, tell me why did you involve my wife in your illegal organ trading syndicate? You’re a doctor for God’s sakes! Aren’t you tied to the Hippocratic Oath? How could you do something so inhumane?!” I said, angrily and disgusted. Richard looked ashen and pale but was speechless throughout.

“What has this got to do with me, you bastards?!” Paolo exclaimed, his face getting redder with anger.

“Your turn will come soon, don’t worry,” I said, with a sly smile. Just then, Reid and his team came to the restaurant and took them both away.

“We’ll get the team to process them and get them behind bars soon. Thanks for helping us out. We’ll get the whole cartel just from these two morons,” Reid said.

I thanked him for his help and Jim and I left. I could finally breathe a sigh of relief and could not wait to get back to Isabelle.

I walked into my office, and it was way too quiet. “Isabelle?” I called out. Nothing. I went to the washroom and she was not there. I told Nancy not to let anyone in my office, and I strictly told Isabelle not to leave. Just then, Nancy came out from the file room, startled by my presence.

“I did not hear you come in. Is everything okay?” Nancy asked.

“Did anyone go into my office?” I questioned her.

“No, no one went in. No one came into the office either. It was kinda quiet today,” she further explained. I could feel the familiar sense of worry and dread washed all over me.

Suddenly, my phone rang.

“Ted, I need to talk to you” Isabelle said.

“Isabelle! Where are you? What is going on now? You were not supposed to leave the office. Where did you go?!” I yelled.

“Meet me at the docks. Please.” Isabelle begged.

“OK, wait there, I am coming now.” I immediately rushed to the docks, my heart sinking further below as I knew what fresh hell was waiting for me.

I parked at the dock, got out, and saw Isabelle standing at the pier. I walked up to her. “Isabelle,” I said.

She turned to look at me, wind blowing her hair into her face, her beautiful eyes looking sad but hopeful. “Ted,” she whispered. “I need to talk to you,” she said.

“You can tell me anything, sweetheart,” I assured her.

“I am not who you think I am. I did some terrible things in my life, horrible things in fact. That you probably won’t even believe,” she continued, her face looking paler than ever.

“I know,” I told her. “I already knew about everything when you left abruptly,” I told her. She looked shocked and scared.

“When you were sleeping soundly at the office, Jim sent me an email with pictures of people involved in the syndicate. You were seen in quite a few pictures. Jim did some background checks and found out that you were actually Joseph. I wanted to come to the office and talk to you about this, but you were gone. And then you called me here. I just wanted to know, why? Geoffrey was your favourite. Why Isabelle?” I asked her, puzzled by her history.

Just then she started crying. “I am so sorry, I really am guilty of this sin, but Geoffrey wasn’t part of my plan, but I had to play on because I didn’t want Linda to know that I was behind it. I loved him, and I was heartbroken to do that to him. I wanted to stop, I really did. Which is why I thought I would tell you everything once it was all over. But it will never be over, I will always be haunted by my horrible past and I would also bring you down with me which is why I left just now but then I couldn’t walk away without you knowing the truth and without apologising to you. I am so sorry Ted! I hurt you...” and she fell to her knees while crying and sobbing.

I pulled her up into my arms and hugged her tightly. “We can walk away from this, Isabelle, I can save you from this,” I assured her. And she pulled away from me.

“Yes, we can,” she said while smiling. “Ted, I want you to know that I really love you very much and whatever I did was my own fault but my love for you was always real and sincere. I got involved with the wrong people at an early age and did terrible things. I wanted to stop, and yet here I am today, guilty of all the things I did and most importantly, guilty of hurting you...” she continued.

“Let’s go home,” I told her, while pulling her hand, but she stopped me.

“Tell me you forgive me,” she said.

“Of course, we will work this out together,” I assured her and took her hand. Her other hand was buried in her trench coat.

She smiled with a tiny twinkle in her eyes and said, “I forgot my phone on the bench over there. Can you get it for me? Then we will go,” Isabelle asked.

Just as I walked away, I heard a gunshot. I immediately turned and saw Isabelle lying in a pool of her own blood! She shot herself.

My whole life flashed in front of me, and I fell to my knees. My Isabelle was gone. Why Isabelle?! Why…?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar is a celebration of literary talent from around the world. It serves as a platform for writers to showcase their creativity in categories such as poetry, short stories, and essays. The competition invites participants to explore diverse themes and narratives, fostering a vibrant community of passionate wordsmiths.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Nateesha Kaur Gill for sharing "Another Day In Paradise" with us. Your participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of storytelling and inspires fellow writers and readers alike. We look forward to witnessing more of your captivating narratives in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.