The Imposter

By krista wagner

Someone is threatening Kyla's life. The problem is, she can't prove it.

Kyla's life seems to be falling into place as she embarks on her dream career and plans her wedding. However, a series of unsettling events force Kyla to question her own sanity. Is she losing her mind to her mother's tragic legacy, or is something far more sinister at play?

Pushed to the brink of paranoia, Kyla finds herself trapped in a twisted game of deception, full of threats and mysterious clues with no rules and no escape. The problem is, she can't prove any of it is happening.

As the stakes escalate, Kyla must unravel dark secrets before everything she holds dear is destroyed. But who can Kyla turn to when the people she trusts the most seem to be hiding something? Will she uncover the truth in time, or will she lose her mind trying?

• Language: English
• Publisher: krista wagner
• Release date: Jun 26, 2024
• ISBN: 9798227916679

Book preview

Chapter One

Kyla stood in her living room, arms akimbo, as she slowly swiveled her head. The mail had to be somewhere in here. She recalled retrieving it from the mailbox and setting it on the coffee table last night.

She rubbed sleep from her eyes and checked the dining table. Where was it? she thought, stumped.

She retraced her steps and searched the back of the house.

Had she mindlessly swiped it and put it out with yesterday’s trash, which was already gone?

She made her way back toward the front, nearing the kitchen. It was hardly nine o’ clock in the morning, but she was already sweating. Maybe the heat of the Southern California summer was getting to her.

She froze as her gaze dipped past the countertop.

What’s this doing here? Kyla whispered. She crouched on the hardwood floor and picked up the bottle of cleaner standing in the middle of it.

She stared at the bottle in confusion, then put it back in its place under the sink.

Kyla had decluttered and polished the whole place just before turning in. When she was done with the bathroom mirror, she was certain she’d returned the spray bottle to the cabinet under the sink.

As far as she could tell, everything else appeared to be in its proper place.

An oversight. That’s all it was. She must have taken it back out again to do a final cleaning and forgot she’d set it down.

She did her best to ignore the shift taking place deep inside the recesses of her mind, what it could mean.

She stared at her left ring finger. The princess cut diamond glimmered in rainbow colors as the sun’s rays filtered through the small kitchen window. She wished Jake were here. His presence calmed her.

Her cell rang, causing her to jump. She scooped it off the counter and peered at the screen.

Hey. She took in a deep breath as she answered the call.

Still nervous about your first day? Jake asked as the sound of traffic filtered through the line.

Since graduating from college two years ago, Kyla had worked as a waitress as she got passed up or beaten out by other applicants for graphic design positions. Her persistence finally paid off with a job offer from a top firm just days ago. But she owed it all to her best friend, Ivy.

She let out the long-held breath. I guess so.

She was twenty-nine years old beginning the job of her dreams and soon to be married to the man of her dreams. She should be happy.

He chuckled softly. You’re not sure?

Her eyes went to the kitchen cabinet underneath the sink, then the empty coffee table. She must have just misplaced the stuff. It made sense, actually, given how busy she and Jake had been with wedding plans and now the excitement and stress of starting a new job soon.

What is it? he pressed.

Can you come by?

Of course. I’m on my way.

Jake was at the door a short while later.

Kyla hugged him as soon as he came inside.

His jet-black hair, which stopped just past his ears, was slicked back, amplifying the olive gold tone of his face and his deep brown eyes, which now looked at her with concern.

What’s wrong, Kyla?

I can’t find my mail from yesterday.

Is that all that’s bothering you?

Then I find the kitchen cleaner in the middle of the kitchen floor. But I don’t remember putting it there. And I know the mail was on my coffee table last night.

He glanced around. Let me help find it. He started searching through cabinets.

She shook her head. I checked everywhere.

He looked over his shoulder at her. Was there anything important in the mail?

Yes. A letter from HR.

I’m sure if you call them, they can duplicate whatever it was.

She sighed with a little relief. Yeah.

He checked under the sink, then moved to the living room to continue his search. And the cleaner, you probably were distracted when you set it down.

But that’s not like me. I mean, to put it in such a weird spot. She joined him, her gaze roving over shelves, the couch, the table once again.

He smiled as he turned to her. Probably just wedding jitters.

Really? You think?

He laughed as he took her hands in his. Sure. The wedding is less than three months away. I know I’m getting excited and nervous about it.

You are? Even without your parents?

They passed away years ago. Of course I wish they were here, and I understand how hard it will be without your parents too. He squeezed her hand. I’m right here with you. I’ll always be here for you.

Neither of them had siblings, and Kyla’s dad suffered a fatal heart attack when Kyla just was a little girl. She and Jake had bonded over their losses. Jake’s parents had died in a plane crash just a few years ago. When Kyla’s mother’s condition grew steadily worse and her future grim, Kyla and Jake’s bond became even stronger.

I watched her fall prey to that sickness for months, Jake. What if I’m—

He shook his head. You’re okay.

How do you know?

Because I was there too. We spoke to the doctors. Lewy-body dementia isn’t usually genetic.

Usually.

Most cases of her mother’s type of disease were not inherited. Most. But it was the tiny possibility that concerned her.

Only six months ago, her mother had passed, spending her last year of life in memory care staring into space, unable to recognize anyone, unable to speak. Kyla watched as her mind deteriorated, helpless to do anything but watch. Jake helped Kyla get through it emotionally and mentally, just being by her side and joining her on visits to see her mom. And when she died on Christmas Eve, he made the sorrow and hurt more bearable.

Ivy, her best friend, had helped her through it too. Kyla couldn’t imagine being able to move on without their support.

Why don’t we talk about your first day? Jake suggested as he led her to the couch.

Well, I’m definitely nervous.

You’re going to do great. This is what you worked so hard for.

Kyla smiled, feeling a rush of pleasure at Jake’s faith in her, but her smile felt bittersweet as they sat together, still holding hands. I really miss my mom.

I know you do.

I wish she could be here to see my dreams unfolding. We always talked about when I would get married and who would give me away, since Daddy had died.

Jake cupped her face in his hands. I know how hard this is without her. But I’m here, and I hope I can help dispel some of your sadness.

She smiled. You already are.

He gently tilted her chin up. Why don’t you ask Ivy if she would like to give you away?

Ivy?

It’s probably not typical, but why not? She is your best friend.

She nodded. It does sound like a good idea.

She turned her attention back to the engagement ring and beamed at the colorful prism. Her worries seemed trivial. And fixable. Jake was right. She could get a copy of the information from HR, and the misplaced spray bottle was no big deal. With the excitement over planning the big day and starting her dream job, she was entitled to space out.

You still there? he said teasingly.

Just distracted by the ring. She sighed as she glanced at him. It’s beautiful, Jake.

He ran the pad of his finger along her cheek. Not as beautiful as you.

Someone knocked on the front door.

Expecting anyone? Jake asked.

No. She got off the couch to answer the door. Mr. Gill, hi! It’s been a while.

Kyla’s neighbor was about seventy with a thick head of silvery hair and a lively step. A retired psychologist, he was usually at home, but he had taken an extended vacation this summer, first a few cruises, then a nice long stint in the mountains.

She had engaged in a couple of longer conversations over the years with Mr. Gill, and she learned he lost his wife to cancer a decade ago and was childless. Before she could express her sorrow, he’d assured her he was perfectly content living alone and loved being retired.

There was a rosy color in his tanned face, and his smile seemed broader than usual.

Jake joined her at the door.

I don’t mean to bother you two. His voice was raspy from years of smoking cigars.

Oh, no, Mr. Gill. You’re never a bother. It’s been so long. How was your vacation? Do you want to come in?

No, no, I just wanted to introduce you to someone. His blue eyes grew bright as he turned to the side.

An older woman with silvery hair and a lively step stepped over to him. He took her hand and smiled. Figured it was due time I gave love a second chance. This is Abby. Abby, my good neighbor, Miss Kyla and her fiancé, Jake.

Kyla shook her hand. Nice to meet you.

Abby smiled. You too.

How was the cruise?

Abby leaned her head on his shoulder. Wonderful.

I’m happy for you two. Kyla’s heart warmed, but the worry about the missing mail and misplaced cleaner bottle encroached upon her happiness.

You doing okay? Mr. Gill asked.

She shrugged. Just wishing my mom could be at the wedding.

His gaze flicked toward Jake. You have a good man here. I know she would be so happy for you two.

Kyla blushed as Jake wrapped his arm around her waist. Thank you, Mr. Gill.

Kenneth. Call me Kenneth. We’ve been neighbors for too long to be this formal.

Kyla smiled. OK.

***

You’ve been so busy planning your wedding, you haven’t made much room for anything else, Ivy complained.

Kyla stared up at Ivy in surprise.

Ivy sighed. I miss you.

They were sitting outside on the patio of a local Mexican restaurant, the summer season in full swing. It was hotter than usual, even for sunny Southern California, and their refreshment glasses were sweating. They were working on a second basket of tortilla chips.

I’m right here, Kyla said.

Yeah, but we used to hang out more.

Kyla noticed Ivy was nursing a margarita.

Was she lonely? Ivy didn’t normally drink.

Ivy’s lips turned down as a single tear escaped. It’s been two years since he’s been gone.

Oh, Ivy. Her fiancé Brent had been killed in a car accident the night before they were to be married.

Kyla went to Ivy and leaned over to hug her. Ivy squeezed back, not letting go for several seconds.

When Kyla pulled away, Ivy’s face was a mess of tears. Her red hair fanned her face as a breeze wafted around them.

I miss him. I feel guilty. Ivy sniffed.

Kyla slowly sat back down and frowned. Guilty? Why?

Because I met someone.

You did?

His name is Tyler. He’s sweet. Goes to college. Where Jake teaches. She shook her head. But I feel bad for wanting to move on.

Brent would want you to find happiness again. He loved you. He would never want to see you give up on finding it.

She wiped a tear off her cheek. Really? You think so?

Kyla patted Ivy’s hand. It’s all going to work out. You have your dreams of being a nurse in place, and now you have met someone. This could be the start of something good.

Yeah. Ivy smiled at Kyla’s engagement ring. And, just like Cinderella, your favorite princess, they all came true. Even a princess cut diamond.

It will happen for you too.

Ivy nodded as she swirled the straw in her drink.  Thank you. I needed to hear that.

When do I get to meet him?

Ivy smiled. Soon.

They sat there awhile, enjoying the warmth of the summer sun and talking about the latest movies. Kyla was happy to see Ivy’s normal self resurface, her body relaxing, the usual confidence and contentment showing across her face once more.

You excited about starting the job? Ivy asked as she sipped her drink.

I don’t think I could handle the excitement of everything if it weren’t for you.

You’ll do great. Philip can’t stop raving about you and he hasn’t even seen your work yet.

Ivy’s friend Philip Werner owned a graphic design business. She had told him all about Kyla. He’d been so impressed by her portfolio during the virtual interview, he’d welcomed her aboard, with the position starting next week.

Really? That’s not reassuring.

Of course it is! That means he believes in you. And since I have seen your work, I know his expectations are on par.

I hope so, Kyla mumbled, hoping Ivy was right. Still, Mr. Werner’s expectations felt high. What if she didn’t meet them?

How are you feeling? Has the pain come back since the surgery? Kyla asked.

A few weeks ago, Ivy had kidney stones removed.

No, thank goodness.

So, Jake and I were talking about the wedding, and since my mom isn’t here . . . would you give me away?

Ivy stared at her. What? Really?

Yes, I would love my best friend to give me away.

Ivy’s face lit up. She leaned over and hugged Kyla, then set back. I would love to keep you to myself, but yes, I will give you away. Tears glistened in her eyes.

You sure? I mean, you don’t have to.

She laughed. Of course I’m sure! I just can’t believe you’re getting married. I mean, it’s almost here.

Why did Ivy look . . . sad? No, scratch that. Upset. Ivy picked up a tortilla chip and broke off a tiny piece, then just held it as she stared at it.

Ivy, did I—. Kyla looked at her watch. A thin white gold band, the watch had belonged to her mother. Oh shoot, we need to go. This place is strict. If we are late by more than five minutes, they’ll cancel.

We have a few minutes, she said nonchalantly.

As much as Kyla loved Ivy, punctuality was not one of her strengths. Ivy was late to her own graduation ceremony in college. She barely made it to the stage before they called her name.

Kyla stood and waved the waitress over, handing her a generous tip.

***

Here we are, Kyla announced as they arrived at the location with only a minute to spare.

Ivy scrutinized the building. You sure this is the place?

Yeah. Why?

It looks like a glamorized brewery. You should doublecheck the address.

Kyla’s forehead furled as she scrolled through her emails. She sighed with relief as she confirmed they were at the right location. She jumped out of her little white Honda and dashed inside the flower shop, Ivy close on her heels.

Hello, ladies. Did you have an appointment? A woman in her forties, with the commanding presence of ownership, greeted them. She was dressed stylishly, as if she’d just stepped out of Vogue magazine. Kyla felt underdressed. A casual mom-and-pop shop might be more suitable.

Ivy bumped her elbow. She’s waiting, she whispered.

The woman stared at Kyla as though she were, indeed, out of place.

I didn’t realize how fancy this place was. Kyla stared around at the shiny, sparkly wreaths and perfectly bundled bouquets.

Are you lost? The woman peered down at Kyla’s outfit and actually sniffed, as though she smelled dirty.

You deserve these flower options just as much as the next person, Ivy spoke in a low voice, but just loud enough for the snooty florist to hear.

Kyla flushed and did her best to compose herself. Yes, I do have an appointment. Last name is Rainier.

The woman, who still hadn’t introduced herself, threw her head back and held her nose high in the air as she went behind the counter where she opened a large binder. Yes, there you are. She was clearly unpleasantly surprised. An autumn wedding. How beautiful. I have much to show you. Her voice shifted into an inviting one, Kyla’s lowly status immediately forgotten. Come this way, please.

Wow, Ivy exclaimed under her breath as she stared around them. How gorgeous.

Kyla’s eyes widened as she also took in the huge display of bouquets. How am I supposed to choose?

Ivy shook her head in disbelief as she turned in a circle to take in all the decor.

As the nameless florist went over all the options, and much later, the prices, Kyla, with Ivy’s help, managed to choose cream and soft pink for the colors, selecting a special bouquet for Ivy and a single white rose boutonniere for Jake with a smaller version for his solo groomsman and best man, Danny, one of his colleagues at the university.

By the time she dropped off Ivy, Kyla’s grin could hardly be contained. It’s really happening. I’m getting married, Ivy.

Ivy exited the car and came around to the driver’s window. Once your special day arrives, you’ll be fine. All you have to do is get your nerves all shaken out in the meantime.

Do I seem nervous?

I’m sure it’s because you’re actually doing things now for the big day. You know, ordering flowers, picking out the venue last week. The reality is becoming more real.

Thanks, Ivy.

What are best friends for?

***

I heard you had an interesting experience at the flower shop. Jake opened the blinds in his living room later that evening.

Ivy told you? The bright sunlight spilled across the top of the black leather couch where Kyla sat, making her squint.

Yeah. He chuckled. Said you had a sort of Pretty Woman moment with some snobby elitist.

Kyla was surprised Ivy confided in him, but she was also glad the two people who meant the most to her were hitting it off. When they met last year, they didn’t connect right away, being opposite each other in personality and taste. Apparently, time had made all the difference and helped them see past their differences.

"I shouldn’t have dumped this on you, picking out the flowers. It’s our wedding, and I don’t want you to feel like I’m not a part of it."

So, you wanted to pick out the flowers with me? She looked at him suspiciously.

He laughed and joined her on the couch. No, but that’s not the point. I don’t want you to take on the burden alone.

Okay. Good.

Good?

Because we have to find a new venue.

We do?

I got a call late last night. There was a fire. The whole building burned down.

Wow. Don’t hear that every day. He sighed. Okay, have any ideas?

There are hotels and churches, of course.

You don’t sound thrilled about those.

Well, I was thinking The Deluxe, where we met, where you proposed.

He squeezed her hands. I’ll call them now.

She glanced around the room, admiring the newly revamped space. The paintings they hung together, the new end table and couch they picked out, and the glass centerpiece in the shape of a heart, they found at an antique store. Soon, this would be her home too.

Home. It had been so long since she’d felt a sense of home.

I hope that smile is a happy one.

Kyla looked at Jake, who had ended the call. Maybe, she teased. What did they say?

He sighed and scratched the back of his head. They said they really wished they could accommodate us.

Kyla’s head drooped. It had sounded so perfect.

So, they are. We’re scheduled to meet with them next week.

Her head whipped up. Jake’s grin sparkled with mischief.

The tension released in her shoulders. What a relief.

He put his phone on the armrest and pulled her close. Is it really that stressful for you?

The planning?

He cradled her face. I can make more time to step in. I know you wanted to do most of it, but it’s—

No. I’m fine. Really. She gave him a reassuring nod. He let go and made his way to the kitchen.

But was she? Was she really fine? She couldn’t remember ever feeling this way. Stressed. Jittery. Expecting the worse.

Why now? When everything was coming together? When all her dreams were coming true?

Hungry? Jake asked.

Starving.

Jake set a skillet on the stove. He whistled as he threw strips of bacon into it and whipped up a thick batter of French toast.

Jake was clearly happy about their engagement, so why did she feel like something was wrong?

Her mom’s confused face flashed in her mind. She hadn’t recognized anyone in the end, not even Kyla. She had skipped time, forgotten where she was.

Forgetting where she put stuff. Ivy seeming different to her, almost . . . unrecognizable.

Feeling confused.

No, it didn’t feel like something was wrong, but like something was wrong with her.

Chapter Two

Kyla stared up at the sleek style of the building that housed Graphix. It was an upscale structure of polished mirrored windows and eye-catching two-dimensional sapphire-blue translucent glass frames stacked in overlapping rows, giving the lavish structure a visual identity which communicated sleekness and edginess.

Kyla opened the large glass door and stepped inside. The soothing scent of vanilla permeated the open space of bright lighting and glowing monitors. Her attention instantly went to the walls adorned by framed posters of inspirational graphics, including samples of company logos, children’s book covers, and business cards.

Row after row, several designers hunched over their keyboards or on their mobiles, all of them utterly consumed by their work.

Mr. Werner’s place was impressive and a little intimidating. She hoped her work wouldn’t disappoint.

A tall dark-haired woman walked toward her. Hi, you must be Kyla. I’m Tamara. They shook hands.

Yes. Nice to meet you.

I’m the senior designer and here to give you a quick tour. She whipped around and Kyla had to speedwalk to keep up with her.

The short walk down the open hallway opened up to dark color schemes in paintings hung near the workstations, evoking a serious atmosphere which mirrored the busyness of the designers. 

Tamara showed her the bathrooms, the break room, and the station that contained a copier, fax machine, and filing cabinets. Philip tends to be old-fashioned with some things, she said through gritted teeth. Keeps us grounded, he says.

Grounded?

Kyla had to practically sprint to keep up with Tamara as she made an abrupt turn. When she mentioned a quick tour, she wasn’t kidding. After briefly pointing out her office, Tamara waved a hand toward an open door just across the hall. And this is your office.

Her very own office?

The space was generous with a large L-shaped computer desk that held a monitor and keyboard, and more than enough office supplies. Though there was no window to relieve the closed-off space, there was a mini refrigerator, which made it look more inviting.

Tamara loudly cleared her throat. Kyla turned around. She was holding a piece of paper toward her. Philip’s message to you. Two projects. Both marked urgent.

Thanks, Tamara. Kyla set her keys on the desk. She glanced at the note. What does urgent mean?

Good luck. Tamara abruptly departed.

Kyla stared after her. Ooookayyy.

Philip Werner turned the corner as Tamara left. Kyla recognized him from the virtual interview.

Nice to meet you in person, Ms. Rainier. He shook her hand.

Mr. Werner was much taller than she expected. At least six feet tall, around Jake’s height, he had broad shoulders like a football player and piercing eyes set against a tanned face. He must have been close to her age, fairly young to be running his own company. He glanced around her workspace. Have everything you need?

Her eyes followed his as they rolled over the new keyboard and mouse, the stack of Post-its, a metal container of pens, and the monitor awaiting her design ideas.

Looks fine. Thank you. She glanced through the open door, down several paces to the open workstations. Why am I not out there with everyone else?

Is there a problem with your office?

No. I just—

Great. Go ahead and tackle those projects Tamara gave you.

Will get right on it, Mr. Werner.

His lips twitched in amusement as he bowed out. Call me Philip.

The first project intrigued her. The client requested both a logo and a tagline for an amusement park. The tone for both emitted a light airy family theme, not unlike Disneyland’s.

She played around with various ideas before eventually settling on lavenders and soft blues for the background. From there, she focused on designing the logo, tweaking the elements until she felt close to being satisfied the branding emanated an uplifting mood.

Kyla sat back, her heart racing with glee. Her very first project as a paid designer was coming to its fruition. All those college courses were finally paying off.

After she grabbed snacks and a drink from the break room, she took a swig from her water bottle and dumped the small bag of peanuts into her palm.

She brushed the peanut shells from her hands and opened a blank document. Now for the tagline. She played around with several phrases before settling on one.

She didn’t realize how focused she’d been on the first project until she finished and checked her watch to see she’d