For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.
The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. (1 John 2:16-17 NIV)
Shane parked his car in front of the Dixons' house and took a deep breath. He looked down the road and then at the house. He saw that a few of the bullet holes were already patched, and was grateful that Corporal Stewart was doing such a great job.
The insurance finally came in and he was relieved. He decided to upgrade to a plum colored SUV, something sleek looking. The glass was slightly tinted. It was a four seater vehicle that was spacious with nice, comfy seats.
He was told by the sales rep that the engine was very fuel efficient, which he was glad to hear. He also told him that the vehicle's RPM was between 1500 - 2000. Shane smiled and told him he didn't believe him. He was allowed to take it for a ride and he was sold. He was very happy with his new toy.
He couldn't wait to properly test the engine's speed on the highway on his way down to the country. He wondered if Dana would be willing to go with him one of those days. He was looking forward to spending alone time with her. Especially since he and Lissa may never get back together.
He closed his eyes and thought of Lissa. Her betrayal hurt him to his core. He couldn't explain it but he knew she was unfaithful. He was hurting but he was willing to forgive her and take her back. He however wanted to explore things with Dana. She was a beautiful, young woman who he always admired for her cool head and strong work ethic. But now that he had seen her passionate side, he wanted to know more about her.
He took his phone out of his front pocket and called her. She answered him quickly. "Hi Sar ... I mean, Shane," Dana answered. She chuckled. "I'm sorry. I'll get used to calling you by your first name, okay?"
Shane laughed softly. "Okay. How are you?" he asked.
"I'm okay," she answered. "Getting ready for work ... and, and I was thinking about you."
Shane felt his heart leap a little. She was bringing out the boyish nature in him.
"Hmm? What were you thinking?" he asked.
"Your, your lips on my skin," she said shyly.
"Tell me where?" Shane asked. He leaned back in his car seat, reclining it back to make himself comfortable.
She giggled a little. "I-I ..."
"Dana, do you live alone?" he asked.
"Yeah, I rent a small house in Harbour View," she told him.
"You home now?" he asked.
"Yes I am," she replied.
He chuckled. "So if you're home alone, why are you afraid to talk to me?" he asked.
Dana laughed as well. "Because it's you. You're a higher rank than me. I have always wanted to be with you, but it seemed impossible, you seemed out of reach."
"Well Dana, I want your respect, but if this relationship between us is to blossom into anything romantic you have to loosen up a little. I want you to feel comfortable with me and I want you to trust me," he told her.
"But I do trust you Shane," Dana said. He smiled at her using his name. "I trust you with my life."
"Yes, as your Sergeant, as your superior. But I want you to trust me as a man. I want you to trust me as the man you want to fall in love with."
Dana sighed. "I'm sorry. It's not just because of your rank. I am generally shy about talking about sex stuff," she said giggling.
"You weren't shy earlier," he teased her, softening his voice.
She chuckled. "It's easier for me to show you than to tell," she told him.
"Don't be shy with me, okay?" Shane replied. "Don't be afraid or shy about how you feel or what you want around me. I want to understand you, and I want to know what you like; what you love, and what you want. Okay?"
She sighed happily. "Okay. Thank you," she responded.
He blew her a kiss. "You're welcome," he said.
"So tell me," he said deepening his voice. "Where do you want me to kiss?" he asked allowing his voice to sound a little raspy
Dana had never heard him like that before. He had a deep voice but she never heard it sound so sexy. She bit her bottom lip and closed her eyes. He was turning her on. Okay, she would relax like he said. She wanted to be with him. Whatever he needed her to do she would do it for him.
She cleared her throat. "I-I think of your lips on my neck, my breasts, on my thighs and butt," she said chuckling softly.
"What about between your thighs? Down there?" he asked softly.
The sensual, quiet tone of his voice made her feel a little weak. "I've thought about it, but maybe it's inappropriate. I grew up thinking it's, you know, nasty to do it," she told him.
"Would you want someone to kiss you there?" he asked, his voice gruff. He sounded so sexy. Dana felt her loins respond.
"Yes," she answered shyly. She released a soft breath. "I fantasize about it. I've never had it done to me, but based on what my best friend told me she seems to love it."
"What if I told you that I'm thinking of you right now, on my bed, on your back, legs wrapped around my shoulders, and I'm pleasing you in that way? What do you think about that?"
"I would tell you you're making me wet," Dana answered.
"Are you?" Shane asked. His member was hard for her.
She sighed. "Yeah, it's wet and throbbing," she told him. "I never thought this day would come where you'd say these things to me."
Shane chuckled softly. "Me neither," he said smiling. "But you fascinate me. Dana, thank you for your gift. I love it. It looks quite expensive. Is it?"
"Yeah, it is," she paused and took a deep breath then released it slowly. She would no longer hold back from him. He wanted her to be open. She would do her best to be. "It's expensive, but you're worth every dollar I spent on it," she told him.
"You think I'm worth it?" he asked touched.
She bit her bottom lip then said, "Shane, besides my family, you're the only other person in this world worthy of my money, my time and my affection."
Shane was speechless. He heard the slight tremor in her voice and knew she mustered up the courage to say what was deep in her heart, making herself vulnerable to him. He was deeply touched. His heart started to pound. Had he found a real gem in her?
"Sweet Dana, you are beautiful inside and out. Will you go to dinner with me later?" he asked his voice soft. "I'll pay for the evening."
"Yes, I would love that," she told him. She was ecstatic.
Shane smiled as he listened to her. He could tell she was happy. He was feeling good too. He was growing in his fondness for her.
"And Dana, there's nothing nasty about wanting to see you shiver in ecstasy. If you're clean and smell lovely down there, I have no problem tasting you," he told her, his voice deep and gruff. He bit his bottom lip and thought of her thighs wrapped around his neck.
"Hmm ... sweet Dana," he said. "Matter-of-fact, if you really want it, I'm willing to give it to you today. I am curious to see how you look when you're body's shaking," he said, deepening his voice.
Dana bit her bottom lip. She swallowed. She always paid careful attention to all aspects of her hygiene. But for him, she wanted to be even more conscientious.
He wants to see my body shaking. She was stunned. This was a side of Sarge she dreamt about, but never thought she would experience. Now however, she didn't know what to say.
Shane chuckled softly. "You okay baby?" he asked.
He called me baby! "Yeh-ss, yeah, uh ... yes, I'm okay," she stammered.
Shane laughed. "Get used to being called baby," he said teasing her.
Dana chuckled a little. "I will. I promise," she said. She bit her bottom lip and thought of his strong, muscular arms wrapped around her waist. She thought of his soft, full lips kissing her neck. She closed her eyes and sighed.
"Your words, they make me think thoughts, I guess," she told him.
"About?" he asked. His voice sounded so intimate. Dana crossed her legs. The sensations down there were getting more intense.
"Sex. What it will be like with you. You going down on me. I've never had anyone talk dirty to me before," she confessed.
He was surprised. "No one? Not even your ex?"
"Not like this. He would just tell me he wants me, but he wouldn't say he wanted to do this or that to me," she answered.
"Well, that's about to change," Shane answered amused. Practically untouched, he thought.
"What time's your shift?" he asked.
"7 to 7," she told him.
"When do you take lunch?"
"Usually at 1 or 2 o'clock," replied.
"Pick you up for lunch. I'll make you lunch, then I'm taking you out to dinner later," he told her.
Dana was happy. "Okay," she said smiling.
"Pick you up at 1/1:30? Do you eat salmon?" he asked
Dana laughed softly. She liked it when he took charge. "Good. That's fine. Yes, I've had it about four times," she replied.
"Okay. I'll text you where to meet me. See you later baby," Shane said softening his tone
"Okay Love," she said
Shane was a little perplexed but amused. "Love?"
"Mhm, that's your new name. Because when I see you or talk to you, that's how you make me feel," she told him.
Damn! Shane thought. This girl is a real 'lover girl'! He could fall for her easily. He smiled. "Okay, only when we're together alone or with family, okay?"
Dana chuckled. "Understood, sexy," she replied.
"Oh, uh ...," he uttered, thrown off guard.
Dana giggled. "Later baby," she said.
"Later Dana," Shane said chuckling. He ended the call and shook his head. This girl! He loved these feelings she was awakening in him. She made him feel so good. Her innocence and enthusiasm were so refreshing. He was getting more comfortable with the idea of dating her to marry.
He opened his car door and stepped out. Closing the door behind him, he armed the vehicle. He looked at his new watch. It said 6:20 a.m. Hopefully, Dana would be able to make it to her post on time. Next time he would be more mindful.
He walked towards the front door and it opened as he stepped up to knock. Marcus nodded at him, then stepped aside so he could enter the house. Shane heard the door close behind him and turned around to see Marcus eyeing him curiously.
"You were on your phone a while," Marcus said matter-of-factly.
"That I was," Shane replied. He allowed his voice to sound flat, monotone. So he was watching me.
"Have you heard from my daughter?" Marcus asked.
"No, not since I saw her with Corporal Stewart," he answered, his voice still flat. He was curious. "Have you heard from her?" Shane asked.
Marcus nodded. "Yes, she texted me. She told me she was okay. She asked about her mother."
"And how is Mrs Dixon?" Shane asked.
"Doing much better," Marcus replied. "She'll be home tomorrow."
Shane nodded. "Glad to hear that," he said.
Marcus nodded.
"New car?" Marcus asked.
"Mhm, the insurance came through," Shane answered.
Marcus nodded then smiled. "I'm happy for you," he said. Shane nodded. "Thank you," he said.
Shane stood a foot away from the older man and looked at him. He looked tired. Shane relaxed a little.
"I'm really sorry about all that has happened. Believe me, if I could take everything back I would. I had no idea when I started this relationship with Lissa all these things would happen. I didn't know," he said.
Marcus came forward. "I know," he said.
He reached out and touched Shane's shoulder. Shane looked at him. He cleared his throat then said, "I am aware that the family is not comfortable with me continuing a romantic relationship with Lissa, especially your wife, Mrs Dixon. Lissa herself has told me she wants us to co-parent and not continue being a couple. I am also aware that she has feelings for Corporal Stewart."
Marcus looked at him. He felt his heart sink. "She told you she wants to co-parent?" he asked
Shane nodded. "Yes, she did," he answered.
"Was this before or after you burned your house down?" Marcus asked. He squeezed Shane's shoulder more tighter. Shane looked at the older man's hand on his shoulder.
He smiled ruefully. "Before," he replied.
Marcus released him. "Come this way," he said. Shane followed him. They entered the living room. "Have a seat," Marcus said.
Shane sat in the grey couch. Marcus went to his minibar and served two glasses of Scotch. He brought the half filled tumblers to him.
Shane took his. "No ice?" he asked.
Marcus lips curled into a thin smile. "Too early," he told him.
He looked at the younger man and sighed. "Why did you do it? Set your house on fire?"
Shane stared at the floor. "So you've heard. It's not in the news. How did you find out?"
"Corporal Stewart told me the same day it happened," Marcus replied. He crossed his arms over his chest waiting for him to answer.
"Are you asking me to incriminate myself?" Shane asked.
"If it comes down to it, I may have to represent you or recommend someone to be your attorney," Marcus said shaking his head.
Shane lifted his head and stared at the blue couch. Marcus was sitting in the greyish-blue colored loveseat. He turned his head and looked at him. "I was filled with rage," he said. "That house was supposed to be the one Lissa and I moved into after we're married. It didn't seem like it would happen so I lost my cool?"
"The police are looking for you, so I've heard," Marcus told him.
Shane nodded. He expected that. "They are doing their jobs," he answered. He wondered if that was the bad news Dana was trying to tell him before they kissed. He would question her later.
"You lost your cool. I need to know you won't lose your cool again and hurt my daughter," Marcus warned eyes boring into Shane.
The younger man shook his head. "There was no chance of that. Anything and everything I have done thus far was to protect her. Even if I lose myself I would never hurt her. Never."
Marcus looked at him reflectively. "Have you eaten?" he asked.
Shane shook his head. "No, not yet," he answered.
"You eat callaloo?" Marcus asked.
Shane nodded with a faint smile. "My favorite veggie," he replied. Marcus nodded. "Okay," he said. "Let's get started then." Marcus sipped his drink, then gestured with his head towards the kitchen.
***
After they downed their drinks, Marcus went to the sink, washed the tumblers and put them away. He convinced Shane to help him prepare breakfast. He would bring some to the hospital for Sandra, but he wouldn't say that Shane helped him.
Shane seived the flour to make the fried dumplings while Marcus washed and stripped the bundle of callaloo he reaped from his vegetable/kitchen garden. He reached for the cutting board behind Shane and smiled briefly at him. "I like a little cow's milk in my dumplings. Sandra isn't a fan, but I like it that way. You'll see why." He went into the fridge and took out a half bottle of cow's milk. He extended his hand to Shane. Shane smiled at him as he took it from his hand.
Marcus also retrieved a measuring cup from the cupboard and handed it to him. "Half cup of milk, half cup of water," he told Shane. Shane looked up at him surprised. Marcus smiled at him then chuckled. "Trust me," he said. Shane smiled slightly. He nodded. He went to the sink and filled the measuring cup with half a cup of water then poured milk till the mixture reached a cup. He took a spoon from the cutlery drawer and stirred the mixture carefully.
"Let it sit for a while," Marcus told him.
Shane nodded.
He took out the butter and handed it to Shane. "Do you know how to bread crumb flour?"
Shane nodded and smiled. "Yeah, I do."
Marcus nodded. "Okay, do your thing."
Shane chuckled. Marcus looked up from cutting the callaloo and smiled. Both their eyes met and Marcus smile broadened. He cleared his throat. "I want you to know I don't blame you for what happened. Being a police officer especially in this country is very dangerous. I just wish we knew about you sooner." He paused his cutting and looked at Shane. "She told you she has feelings for Corporal Stewart?"
Shane shook his head. "No, she was very adamant that she didn't have any attraction towards him, but I could tell from his body language he was smitten. I'm not saying a man can't get there all by himself without any encouragement from a woman, but I know Corporal Stewart. He's very level headed. She had to be giving him some encouragement. Plus ..." Shane paused, thinking what he was about to say next would be silly to Marcus' ears.
He picked up a small knife from the cutlery drawer and pared off about a quarter teaspoon of butter. "This good?" he asked. Marcus looked up and nodded. "That's fine," he answered. Marcus finished cutting the vegetables and placed them in a large clear bowl. He went to the sink and rinsed the cutting board. "Grab that towel behind you," Marcus requested.
Shane looked behind him and saw a stack of kitchen towels on a wooden rack hanging from the wall beside the cupboards. "Which one?" he asked chuckling.
Marcus smiled broadly. "My apologies I have a special towel I use when I'm cooking. My wife says I'm a messy cook, so she doesn't like me using her kitchen towels. The blue one with the big curry stain," he said, his mouth breaking into a wider, humorous smile. Shane laughed a little while reaching for it. He handed it to Marcus who nodded. "Thank you," he said. He used it to dry the cutting board.
He placed the dried cutting board before Shane on the counter. "Use this to make your dumplings," he instructed. Shane nodded then said, "Okay." He was using his fingers to lightly mix the butter into the flour. Marcus watched what he was doing. "Nice!" he said. Shane smiled. He was enjoying this conversation with the patriarch of the family.
"Plus what?" Marcus asked.
"Plus?" Shane responded.
"You said besides observing Corporal Stewart's body language towards Lissa, you felt she has feelings for him, there was a "plus". So, plus what?"
Shane sighed. "You'll think I'm crazy," Shane said. Marcus reached for the milk in the measuring cup and placed it in front of Shane. "Pour in a little at a time and mix in slowly," he instructed him. Shane nodded. "Will do," he replied.
Marcus smiled. "Try me," he said. Shane looked up from kneading the dough and saw that Marcus was looking at him with kind eyes. He sighed. He poured a little more of the milk mixture and continued to make the dough.
"Lissa and I, we have a kind of bond. It happened during one of our sexual encounters. Well, before ... before that she told me she felt me enter the room when I was trying to sneak up on her. That was when she stayed with me for the week." He looked at Marcus and stopped. All the flour was mixed in.
"Sprinkle a little of the milk over the dough to make it moist," Marcus said.
Meanwhile Shane did this, Marcus went into the cupboard and took out a box of cling wrap. He took the bowl from Shane and covered it with the cling wrap and then placed a towel over it and laid it in the sink.
"We'll steam the callaloo in the meantime." Marcus told him. Shane nodded.
Marcus leaned on the counter and looked at him. "So you and my daughter have developed a spiritual bond?' he asked, brow knotting.
Shane nodded. "I think so," he answered. "It may have been broken however," he told him.
"How do you know?"
"She slept with him," Shane revealed.
Marcus stared at him in shock. "How do you know?"
"I felt it. Not the actual thing, but I felt really jealous. This feeling of rage rose up in me. I've never felt that before. Women have cheated on me, but I never felt that kind of anger before," Shane replied.
He looked at Marcus' body language. "Mr Dixon, I'm sor ..."
"Call me Marcus," Marcus said.
Shane looked at him eyebrows raised. Marcus saw his shocked look and chuckled. "My wife and I share a similar bond. It's more on my part but she feels it too."
Shane's mouth rounded to an 'O' but he said no words. "I think it's how we're created," Marcus explained. "I believe men who are capable of feeling it, bond quickly, while for women it grows stronger the more we spend time with them.
"If you're feeling it that means she has the bond with you as well. It's usually mutual," Marcus told him.
"That might be true, but she slept with him," he said feeling frustrated. "I know I've been absent and yes, I haven't been keeping in touch as I should, but it was just to be careful." He sighed and went to stand by the sink. He turned on the faucet and washed off the dough from his hands. Turning it off, he pushed his hands in his pocket for a handkerchief but Marcus gave him a towel from the wrack to dry his hands, He took it from him and smiled.
"Her mom asked me to stop seeing her," he continued. His smile became lopsided. "I told Mrs Dixon that I would back off for Lissa and the family's sake, but I couldn't leave her. I should've explained everything to Lissa, but that was when we just came back from Westmoreland, and she almost lost the babies. I thought giving her some space was the best thing, hoping Mr Z would pursue me and leave her alone. Now I realize I was wrong."
Marcus went and stood beside him. He sighed. "I'm sorry. I didn't know Sandra said that to you. I will talk to her. As for you and Lissa, it may not be lost. Shane, if you guys really love each other there may be a way to mend this situation, if that's what you both want." He squeezed his shoulder.
Shane didn't know what to say. He still loved Lissa but the pain was too much. He was willing to start fresh with Dana. Maybe she was the one he was searching for all along.
***
After breakfast Marcus gave Shane a description of Zavier Sterling. Shane was a little surprised at his description. He wondered how a guy like that got involved in crime. If it was in fact him.
"So you say he's tall and dark skinned?"
Marcus nodded. "Average looking, nothing interesting about him. "No scars on him anywhere. No tattoos. His hair is cut low and neatly shaped up. He wears glasses. Mild mannered looking, like me, I guess you could say," Marcus said chuckling at the thought that someone like him could be a kingpin.
Shane smiled slightly then said, "You'd be surprised at what people can get up to behind closed doors, especially behind boardrooms doors, and even after the cocktail mixer at corporate events."
Marcus looked at him eyebrows raised. He sobered. "I hear you," he replied.
"The ring you saw, you're sure it was a Z?" Shane asked intrigued.
Marcus nodded. "Yup. Two capital 'Zs' with squiggly lines coming out of them. The Z was on either side of the band, with a purple stone set in the middle."
Shane rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Interesting, he thought. "What did the squiggly lines look like?" he asked. Marcus shook his head. "I can't say," he answered.
"I wish I knew if it could help, but the lines were small, and because of the angle I saw them I can't say," Marcus replied.
"When will you see him again?" Shane asked. The cogs in his brain were turning rapidly. Maybe he didn't need Dana to go undercover after all.
"About a week or so from now," Marcus answered.
"Please keep me posted, and do your best not raise suspicion on yourself. If this is really Mr Z he'll not like his secret exposed," Shane warned.
"He applied to join the private sector group. He may be trying to go legit," Marcus said.
Shane nodded. "That may be, but going after me and your family was a big mistake, because now his plans will backfire," he replied. He stood up. "I hate to eat and run but I need to make a few calls." He extended his hand towards Marcus. "Those dumplings were nice and flaky. Nice creamy texture. Thank you for breakfast."
Marcus looked at it and stood. He grabbed his hand and shook it slowly then squeezed. "You are most welcome," he replied. "I don't know what will happen between you and Lissa, but I will make sure you will always feel welcome here from now on. You say you're a Christian?"
Shane nodded.
"Pray for God's forgiveness and repent of what happened between you two," Marcus responded. "Ask God to show you what to do about the relationship. Give yourself time to heal. If you enter a different relationship make sure she's the one you'll marry." He patted Shane on the arm.
"How do you know so much about these things?" Shane asked intrigued.
"A long story," Marcus said ruefully. "Let's just say San San wasn't my first love, but she is definitely my best." He smiled at him.
Shane cleared his throat "I am seeing someone. We haven't ..." Shane cleared his throat again, "but she has been there for me. I trust her."
"When did this happen?" Marcus asked, stunned.
"Just a day ago. After I felt the jealousy, it so happened that she had come over to see me. I had a panic attack and fainted. She stayed with me and helped me. She told me how she felt."
Marcus sighed. "I can't believe I am saying this: if you have feelings for this girl I would advise you to take it very slow. Do not rush a sexual encounter. You'll feel muddled up and confused afterwards. Also, talk it over with my daughter and make sure that a separation is what you both want. If you both agree then take it slow with this other young woman."
Shane nodded. He cared enough for Dana to wait for her. "I will," he agreed.
"As for the incident at your house, you know you will be charged with arson if they can determine you deliberately set the house on fire?" Marcus warned.
Shane understood. "I know. I'm not proud of that moment. However, I'm hoping that I can use it to my advantage," he told him.
"How so?" Marcus asked.
"If the rumor can go out that I am dead. It may give me the opportunity to move more stealthily. I have confessed to you what happened. I am hoping you won't say anything to anyone. I don't want Lissa to know I'm alive, although I'm sure she suspects it. But please don't tell anyone we spoke, okay?"
Marcus nodded. "I won't say anything," he promised. "But why did you answer my phone call?" he asked curious.
"If there's a chance you may be calling me about Lissa, I had to take the risk, but you told me earlier she's okay."
Marcus nodded. "You should know, the last time I heard from Lissa or Corporal Stewart they both confirmed that she was at his house," he revealed.
Shane nodded. "I know," he answered. "Please don't ask how, but I know."
Marcus sighed. "This is a mess," he said sadly.
"Yeah. Again I am sorry for all this," Shane replied.
Marcus released Shane from the handshake. "As the old folks always say: God never gives you more than you can bear." He patted Shane on his shoulder and walked him to the door. "As soon as I make contact with Mr Sterling again, I will let you know."
Shane nodded and stepped outside of the house. Marcus closed the door behind him.
***
Shane called Dana. "Hey," she answered. She sounded happy to hear from him.
"Hey," he said. He smiled. He imagined her in her uniform looking smart and neat; her hair up in a cute bun. "We still on for about 1 o'clock?" he asked. He looked at his watch. It was 9:45 a.m. He was going to buy her a gift.
"Make it 1:15," she told him.
"Okay," he answered.
"Can't wait to see you," he said. Then, "I need to talk to you about something. Two things actually."
"Sure. Can I get a hint?" she asked, her tone soft and endearing.
"Firstly, I want to date you," he told her. "I want to be your boyfriend, but I want to take it really slow. So my comment earlier about kissing you in certain places, I have to take it back for now. If we're to do this the right way, it will mean waiting until I'm your husband." he said. He released his breath.
There was a pause, then she said, "I've waited for two, almost three years to hear you say you want to be my boyfriend. I can wait a little longer to have you in my bed."
Shane smiled, He felt relieved. "You sure?" he asked.
"Mhm," she said. "Shane, to me you're my dream come true. Maybe it's the dream of a naive little girl, but that's how I feel."
His heart felt like it was going to swell up. He inhaled and exhaled slowly. "You are amazing. Do you know that?" he told her. "The other thing we'll talk about when I see you later. I can't wait to hold you."
Dana chuckled softly. "I can't wait to see you later." Then, "Later love," she whispered.
"Later sweetheart," Shane replied. He ended the call.
He pocketed his phone and entered a jewelry store. He wanted to get her a pair of earrings or something she would like. She seemed to like necklaces. He would buy one for her, or maybe a bracelet. All he knew was that he was looking forward to seeing her and starting something beautiful with a beautiful woman.
***
Zavier paced the floor of his corporate office in New Kingston. There was a big card game later. He would pick up his wife at the boutique, then go back to play some poker with a few of his investors.
Kyle was insisting that he be present at this game. He was annoyed at him but if he wanted to put his money up, he wouldn't stop him. His phone rang. He picked it up from his desk. It was N calling. He answered.
"Hey morning," he answered. "Got something for me?" he asked.
"Yes I do. You're not gonna like it," N answered.
"Tell me, I can take it."
There was a pause. Then, "Well, Mr. Marcus Dixon is actually the father of the young woman you sent Lequan to kidnap a few weeks ago."
Zavier's eyes flew open. "Go on," he said.
"He's married to Sandra Claire Bascoe Dixon, a registered real estate agent/property investor. Their children are Melissa Nordia Dixon, and son is Brandon Malcolm Dixon. Son is currently studying architectural design and minor in engineering, while young Ms Dixon is a Counselling Psychologist. She works for the JCF. That's where she met your target."
Zavier sat down. He wondered if those weird looks the elder Dixon gave him was because he thought he recognized him. But he had never met him in his life. He looked at his right hand, at the ring. It dawned on him that Dixon may have seen the ring and was now wondering if he had met the infamous Mr Z. He chuckled to himself. He would have to do all in his power to throw him off his trail.
"Thanks N. Look deeper into his background, just him. I think we'll find something very interesting. I have a feeling about this."
"Okay, if you say so," N replied. He hung up.
Zavier leaned into his leather chair. "We'll see who's smarter than who," he said looking at the large plaque in the room.
***
At 1 o'clock, Shane texted Dana and told her to meet him at the bottom of the road. She agreed. By a minute after one she began walking to the end of the road. When she was half way there he rode up and met her. He stopped the motorcycle in front of her and lifted the visor. She smiled at him. He removed a smaller helmet from the bag he had on his back.
He handed the helmet to her. She put it on and secured it. He gave her the bag to carry on her back for him. It wasn't heavy. He had bought groceries for their lunch date. He stretched his hand out and she grabbed it and mounted behind him. He revved the engine twice and rode off with her.
Dana leaned into him and circled her arms around his waist. She was impressed with the power she was feeling under her legs, but it was the way Shane maneuvered the motorcycle that made her swoon. She rested her body on him, feeling slightly aroused.
Shane felt her body weight resting on him and reached down briefly and squeezed her hands closer together. She took the hint and clasped her hands together and adjusted her weight to rest on him. He was about to go faster and hoped she wouldn't be scared.
He switched gears: the motorbike vibrated then picked up speed. He touched her right thigh and gently squeezed. They were coming up on a right turn. He leaned his body, guiding the bike into the right turn. Dana closed her eyes and leaned into the turn with him. He straightened the bike and continued until they were at a traffic light. He stopped and patted her thigh gently.
When the light turned green, they were moving again. They turned onto his road and he switched gears to accommodate the steep incline of the road. They slowed down at the apartment complex he lived in and carefully turned into the parking lot and stopped before a block of the apartment buildings.
He shut off the engine and pushed down the motorcycle kickstand. Dana squeezed him. He removed his helmet and leaned back into her. She tentatively rubbed her hands on his chest. Shane squeezed her hands.
Dana got off then he followed. He helped her remove the helmet and hung both helmets on the handlebars. He looked at her, his eyes observing every detail. Leaning forward he tenderly captured her lips in a kiss.
Slowly, he circled his arms around her as he deepened their kiss. Dana turned her head slightly to the left wanting the kiss to go much deeper. He groaned and squeezed her closer. "Hmm ... Dana," he said, his voice husky. Reluctantly, he stopped their kiss and looked into her eyes.
"You okay? I didn't scare you?" he asked gesturing his head towards the motorcycle.
She shook her head as she gazed at him. Shane was captivated by the way she stared at him. Her beautiful eyes had a whimsical look to them. He wondered what she was thinking.
Dana put her arms around his neck and lifted herself on tiptoe to kiss him. He pulled her into his embrace and kissed her slowly. His hands moved down to her hips and squeezed. She was so soft but firm at the same time. He wanted to caress her bottom, but he wouldn't do it in the parking lot where anyone could pass by and see them. When he put her away from his face he looked into her eyes.
"I really missed you today," he told her.
Dana stared at him. She could see he meant every word. "I missed you too," she replied. Her heart fluttered with excitement. Shane smiled and Dana felt like her tummy was doing somersaults. He's so sexy, she thought. The new beard he was growing made him look even more ruggedly handsome. She heard the rumors. She needed to confirm if they were true.
Picking up the helmets, he led the way up the stairs while she carried the knapsack bag with the groceries. They walked up to room 46. He opened the door and allowed her to enter the room first, then closed the door behind them.
He rested the helmets in the corner by the door and took the knapsack from her. He took her hand and brought her to his little kitchen. Reaching for her, he held her close. "I thought I would return the favor and cook lunch for you," he said. He reached down and pulled her service belt with her gun still holstered. "You don't need this right now," he told her. He carefully laid it near the door.
Dana nodded and smiled happily. "Thank you," she replied, "I am hungry."
She smiled up at him, "Can I take off my boots too?" she asked.
He chuckled then nodded. "Sure," he said.
She was about to bend down when he stooped down in front of her and loosened the lace of her boots and helped her out of them. He placed them by the door as well. She smiled at him, looking relieved.
"Better?" he asked amused.
Dana's smile broadened. She nodded. "Much better," she said.
He came back to her and held her close for almost a minute then released her. He went to the sink, washed his hands and got to work. He pulled the small two pound rice bag from the knapsack and measured out some into a bowl.
Next, he removed two cuts of pink salmon flesh from a packet, as well as the broccoli from a clear bag. Dana sat at the counter and watched as he prepared the pink salmon for cooking, then he washed the rice, and washed and chopped the broccoli.
As he prepared their meal he decided he would ask her what she wanted to tell him yesterday. He cleared his throat, Her eyes had wondered off, taking in the contents of the apartment.
When she heard him clear his throat she looked at him. He sprinkled salt and black pepper on the two pieces of salmon and rubbed them in. "Yesterday you said you had good news and bad news. Assuming that getting the job at Z's place was the good news, what was the bad news?"
He reached for a bottle of olive oil in the fridge and poured a table spoon into a flat skillet. He turned on a burner on the stove and carefully placed the skillet on it. He had some mustard in the fridge he took it out and squeezed out about the size of a five dollar coin on both cuts of salmon and rubbed it in carefully. He also squeezed a dollop of ketchup onto the cuts of fish and rubbed that in.
When the oil was at medium heat he placed the two pieces of fish carefully in the skillet. Turning down the heat, he retrieved some garlic from the fridge and washed, cleaned and crushed the herb then dropped it into the oil.
He took a spoon and carefully spooned the oil onto the fish cuts. "Hand me the butter," he told her.
Dana went to the fridge. She sighed. "Mark told me that High Command sent someone from the Professional Standards Branch to interview Ryan," she said.
She handed him the small package with the butter to him. He held her hand, kissed her cheek then let her go.
He nodded. He would tell her everything. "This is between us," he told her.
She nodded. Her eyes were wide. "Of course," she answered.
"I suspected that Lissa, Ms Dixon, was sleeping with Corporal Stewart."
Dana was shocked. "Wow! Shane I'm so sorry."
He sighed. "Anyhoo, she came to my house and told me she wanted to co-parent but I felt there was something more happening. When I confronted her she admitted that someone else had shown an interest in her, but she denied that anything was happening between them.
"Eventually I pulled it out of her that it was Corporal Stewart. I called him on the phone and confronted him also, and got him to come to my house, and we had a discussion. I lost my cool and aimed my shotgun at him."
Dana gasped. He looked up at her. He saw her alarmed expression. "I am sorry. Yeah, I acted stupidly. I wasn't going to shoot him. I guess it was an ego thing, but I would never shoot a colleague, unless my life was in danger," he hurried to say, "and that was not the case. But yeah, I aimed my gun at him and she defended him, put her body in the way of my aim and cussed me out."
Dana reached out and rubbed his back. He smiled ruefully at her. "The short version of the story is that I set the house I had planned for Lissa and I to live in on fire and now the blue wall is looking for me."
Dana sighed. "I heard Supe saying he needed to find you before Inspector White does. I wasn't sure why. He even asked me if I heard from you but I told him I hadn't," she said her eyes wide.
"So is she sleeping with him?" Dana asked.
Shane sighed. He looked up from the skillet. "She may have been telling me the truth that at time they hadn't slept together, but things have changed since then. Don't ask me how I know, but I do," he said.
"So you think they are together?" Dana asked feeling hurt for him.
"Yup," he said, trying to sound nonchalant. But it hurt just thinking about it.
"Why Shane why? Burn your house down?" she asked. Just then, she noticed the fish were crisping up. She went for the spatula and flipped them over. He was too caught up in recounting what happened, he hadn't noticed that they were getting close to charred on one side. "Let me finish this," she said.
She took the handle of the skillet and gently pushed him away from the stove. He went and sat down on a stool in front of the counter.
"I also heard that you sent in your resignation letter. Is this true?" she asked. She glanced up at him briefly then focused her gaze on the skillet.
"Turn down the stove some more," he instructed her. "There's a bottle of white wine on the bottom shelf of the fridge."
She went to retrieve it. "Uncork," he told her. She did as she was told.
"You're going to slowly pour until I tell you to stop," he said.
With eyebrows raised she said, "Okay. " She tilted the wine bottle and allowed the clear, gold tinged liquid to slowly flow into the frying pan.
"Stop,' he said. She lifted the bottle and recorked it. She put it back in the fridge then returned to the stove, doing a stirring motion with the liquid in the frying pan. He shook his head. "Not like that," he said. "Let me show you."
He got up and came to her. He stood behind her, took up the spoon he had been using, and evenly distributed the sauce the wine and the olive oil made over the fish. Dana stood still while both of his hands were around her. One hand held the skillet handle, while the other ladled the sauce over the fish. The closeness of his body made her feel a little giddy, but she didn't move.
He came closer behind her and rested his left hand on her tummy, while the other ladled the sauce all over the fish. "Flip them over," told her, his voice deep and gruff.
Dana did as he instructed while holding the skillet handle. He repeated the same process for two more minutes. He put the spoon down and kissed her neck. "I'll take it from here," he said. Dana observed that the sauce had thickened a little. The aroma of the salmon was making her mouth water. She had no idea he knew how to cook like this.
He stepped back and she moved away from the stove. She felt hot and flushed all over her body. She was sweating a little but was certain it wasn't because of the heat of the stove. He lifted the skillet off the fire, placed it aside and covered it, then started cooking the broccoli and rice.
"Yes, I gave in my letter. I was thinking that Lissa and I would go away together. I felt the best way to keep her and our kids safe would be to leave the country. So I sent in my resignation," he said, finally answering her question. He took a deep breath then released it. "She had no interest in going with me."
"I'm glad she didn't," Dana said. She lifted her chin a little and looked at him pointedly. "If she did I wouldn't know you can cook like this, or any of the things I've experienced with you so far. I'm sorry it didn't work out, but at the same time I'm not."
Shane looked at her and blew her a kiss. "I totally understand," he said. She came to him and rested her head on his chest, circling her arms around his waist. Shane hugged her.
Within thirty minutes everything was ready to eat. Dana dug in and was amazed at the flavors that hit her taste buds. She reached out to him and squeezed his right hand. He looked up from eating, saw how she was staring at him, and chuckled softly. "Tastes good?" he asked amused.
She nodded emphatically. "This is so good! I've never had fish that tastes this good!"
He grinned at her. "I'm glad you like it. I wanted to give you a treat," he told her. "I wasn't planning on using the wine, but just in case it was charred to a bitter taste, the sweetness of the wine would help."
Dana was captivated by him. She got up from the stool, her eyes holding his gaze. They were sitting around the counter because there was no other space to dine. She came around to where he was sitting, still staring intently at him. Shane put his fork down and turned his body towards her. He watched her every move.
Deciding to be bold, she took a deep breath and touched his face. Tenderly, she moved her hand from his cheek, down to his jawline. She used her fingers to probe and massage his jaw and caress the beard he was growing. "You're so handsome," she told him. She slowly moved her hand down to his chest. He looked at her hand on his chest then looked up at her face. She was biting her bottom lip. Shane smiled at her. He'd allow her to do whatever she wanted. He was curious to see what she would do.
She seductively placed her hand on his face and stared at him. She touched his beard. As she gently pulled on it, she came closer to him, gazing into his eyes. She leaned into him and he circled his arms around her. Dana closed her eyes and sighed. "Even if it means waiting a lifetime, I would wait just to be able to be near you like this," she said.
Shane closed his eyes, his brow knotting as he felt her words resonate deep inside his soul. He felt a strange pulling in his chest and then a tension release. He sighed and squeezed her closer. Deep within him, he felt like a burden had been lifted. It was an emotionally overwhelming experience.
"Dana," he said, his voice ragged. "I'm willing to wait for you a thousand times over just to feel like this." He lifted his head and kissed her brow. "I want to be your boyfriend. I see a future with you. One where I marry you." He shuddered. Dana felt his body shaking. She eased back alarmed. His eyes seemed sad.
"Shane, baby, are you okay?" she asked. She lifted her lips to tenderly kiss his forehead and heard him sigh deeply.
He nodded. "I think you're the answer to my prayers," he answered.
Dana felt touched by what he said. She leaned her head on his shoulder. Shane pulled her up on his lap to face him with her legs on either side of his thighs. She sat on him willingly.
"I'm sorry about you and Ms. Dixon, I wish you had called me first before you did what you did --you know the house, and with Corporal Stewart. I heard he told Sergeant Reynolds he tried to shield you and Lissa as much as he could, but that officer from the Professional Standards Branch threatened his career. He told them about your erratic behavior."
She touched his face. "Whatever happens I will be here for you," she said quietly.
He sighed. "You mean so much to me. As a friend and now as my woman," he said. "I promise from now on to keep it real with you. I won't lie to you and you'll know where I am if I'm not with you.
"Lissa is the mother of my twins, however she has made it clear that she wants to move on. But, even if she came back and told me she wanted to make it work, which I doubt, but even if she did, I want to be with you."
Dana squeezed him tightly. She leaned forward and kissed him passionately. Shane reciprocated, opening his mouth and teasing her with his tongue. He groaned as she pressed her hands into his chest.
He put his arms under her legs and carried her to his bed and laid her down. He lay beside her. His feet, still strapped in his boots, were hanging off the bed. Tenderly, he kissed her lips and groaned when he heard her moan.
"You're really sweet Dana. I promise from now on to pay attention to you," he said.
That's all she ever wanted. She blinked and a tear rolled down her cheek. "That's all I've ever wanted," she said.
He captured her lips again, but this time he kissed her slowly, savoring the taste of her mouth. He kissed her with soft pecks. Taking his hand, he brushed his thumb against her cheek, wiping the tear away, then kissed the wet spot. "When we make love on our wedding night I'm gonna take my time with you," he said. He took her hand and placed it on his crotch.
Dana's eyes widened. "Um ... okay!" she said.
Shane chuckled then said, "Made for your pleasure, and from now on no one else will have it but you."
"You're, well ... you're huge!" she said a little shocked at his size.
Shane laughed. He leaned towards her and briefly kissed her lips then moved back. "I doubt that," he said amused.
Dana squeezed him and he grunted. He smiled at her, biting his lips. He liked the way she held him. "I don't know if I can take all of this. I'm practically a virgin," she quipped.
"Come, come Dana, I've never known you to back down from a challenge," he said teasing her.
She chuckled. "I never said I wouldn't try." She rubbed her hand on his arousal slowly, and squeezed while licking her lips. "I'll take everything that comes with the package," she told him, "just be gentle with me."
Shane blew her a kiss. "I promise. I will be very gentle with you." He put his arm around her waist.
Dana sighed happily. She moved her hand away from his crotch and touched his face. She kissed his lips, suckling and nibbling on them. Shane moved back a little. He shook his head. "You're gonna send me over the edge if you do that to me," he confessed. His eyes were captivated by the soft curves of her lips.
She gave him a playful, coy smile. "Sorry," she said cheekily. A seductive smile was on her face. He laughed a little then playfully slapped her butt and hugged her.
She looked at him sincerely then said, "Please talk to Supe. He's really concerned about you. Maybe he can help us figure out how to deal with the arson charges they want to file against you," she said.
Shane noted that she said "us". This girl was blowing his mind every time. He leaned forward and kissed her brow. "I will," he said.
"Would you take back your resignation? If they overlook everything that's happened and say they want you to continue as a police officer would you reconsider?" she asked. Her eyes searched his face.
He kissed her brow. He paused and thought about it. He shook his head slowly. "No, I think that part of my life is over. I want to start fresh. With you and with everything else." He cupped her face. "Will you still want me?" he asked. He looked into her eyes.
Dana could see there was a vulnerability in the way he looked at her. She touched his hand. "Yes, I will still want you. You are all the things I admire about you, with or without the badge," she told him.
He took in all of her. He stared at the neat bun piled high on her head. He had the strongest urge to pull out the hair pins and mess her hair up while caressing the strands. He wanted to bury his face in it and enjoy the smell.
He observed her beautiful, expressive dark brown eyes; her dark-chocolate brown skin; her round hips and thighs, and her cute, voluptuous butt. He thought of her unexpectedly girlie laugh. That sexy smile she would give him sometimes, though she wasn't aware of it. He was falling in love with her.
He stood up and lifted her in his arms and brought her back to their lunch. She giggled like a school girl, he looked up at her grinning. This was what he had been missing all along.
She took a deep breath. "I love you," she said.
Shane smiled. "I love you too," he replied. Dana's eyes lit up. He was happy to see that his words made her feel good. He did love her and had no doubt that he was falling for her.
***
After they finished eating lunch, Dana sat on his lap for a little while. She was telling him about her childhood growing up. Shane watched her, mesmerized at how her face lit up and her eyes shone as she spoke of her time visiting her cousins in Portland.
She's so beautiful, he mused. He reached up and brushed his hand on her face. She held on to it and leaned into his touch. She took his hand and placed it on her right breast and looked longingly at him. He gently cupped her breasts with both hands and kissed her lips.
"It'll be worth the wait, I promise you," he said his voice soft but husky to her ears.
He kissed her brow. "You're very sweet. I will make this vow to you: I won't touch another woman sexually, and I will do all in my power to make sure I put a ring on your finger," he declared.
He moved his hand down to caress her firm, round bottom. He squeezed and massaged her buttocks, wishing he could feel her bare flesh in his hands. Dana moaned his name, wanting him to do more. He caressed her and squeezed more possessively. She leaned into him, groaning softly, "Hmm ..."
"You like this baby?" Shane asked, caressing gently.
"Mhm, ahhh!" she replied her voice airy and sensual.
"I wish I could have you. You feel so good," he groaned. Shane circled his arms around her back and squeezed her.
His embrace was lighting a fire inside her. Dana leaned her body slightly away from his torso, giving him access to her chest. She closed her eyes and whimpered, wrapping her arms around his neck.
Shane laid his head on her bosom. He wanted to feel the softness of her breasts. He smelled something exotically enticing, and wished he could bury his face between her breasts and kiss them for her. He pulled the first two buttons of her blouse and pushed his face inside and inhaled her scent.
"Hmm, you smell really good," he told her. Her skin was so soft and smooth.
He heard Dana moan as he kissed the delicate skin of her neck and pulled on it slowly. Wanting to explore more, he moved his head down to kiss the top of her cleavage and felt her body shiver. She arched her body back, throwing caution to the wind, leaning further away from him. He embraced her, making sure his arms supported her weight.
"Hmm ... I think I better take you back to work now, if not, I may make love to you right here, right now. You're so sweet baby. I really want you," he growled.
Dana moaned at the way his voice sounded and the words he said. "Ahh, please, I wish you would," she replied her voice airy. She was licking her lips and pressing her crotch against him.
He chuckled seductively. "I know. I really really want to." He squeezed her left breast and watched her body respond. Dana began biting her bottom lip and moaning softly. She closed her eyes. She took his hand and made him cup her throbbing loins. He adjusted her weight on his left arm, making sure he didn't drop her.
With his mouth slightly open and breathing shallow, Shane shifted her body on his thighs so he could have access to touching her intimately. He squeezed her mound gently. She felt soft and round. He rubbed on her. "You are beautiful," he said.
Dana moaned louder, "Hmmm ..."
"I'm looking forward to tasting every part of you, but especially here." He squeezed her a little more. He was hard for her. He really wanted to experience her. He bet she was really wet right now, but he needed to act according to his better nature. He took a deep breath.
"Ohh Shane," she whispered breathlessly. He looked at her intently. Her body was arched back while she straddled him. Her eyes were closed and mouth slightly open. He listened to her shallow breathing and knew if he made love to her he wouldn't regret it.
But he wanted to do the right thing. The right thing because more and more he desired to cherish her, and treat her with respect. And more importantly so that his God would be pleased with him.
"Sweet baby, I love you. I'm gonna make sure I take good care of this body when the time is right," he told her seductively. "I won't let this thing lag for too long. I promise you," he said. He pulled her upright on his lap and kissed her brow. He buttoned her up and gave her a cheeky smile. Holding her close to him, he rubbed her back, comforting her.
Dana sighed, basking in his gentle caress. She wished he would go further but she wanted to work with his pace. She never knew he could make her feel this way. "You make me feel crazy," she whispered. She looked at him licking her lips. He chuckled, gave her a soft peck and gently patted her buttocks. "Baby, trust me, the feeling is mutual," he said kissing her brow.
She leaned her torso back a little so she could see his face. He looked happy. She liked to see it.
***
He brought her a few buildings down from the police station and helped her mount off the bike. He had helped her put on her service belt and while he did this he held her gaze. When he was done she looked down and was impressed that he had put it on correctly, though his eyes were on her face and not at her waist. He also made her lean on him while he helped her put her boots back on and laced them up. This gentle side of him made her even more attracted to him.
She gave him a brief hug and handed the helmet to him. "Wear something fancy tonight, okay. I'm taking you somewhere extra romantic and fancy. So let your hair down. I want to play in your hair tonight." He brushed his fingers on the left temple of her head. "Do you wear strapped shoes with heels?"
Dana grinned broadly at him, then said, "Remember, I told you I have a girlie side."
"Hmm, you did," he answered intrigued. "Can't wait to see you later."
"Will you dress up as well?" she asked.
He nodded. "Yes, I want to look good for my woman." He touched her face. "Pick you up at 7:30. I'll text you."
Dana blushed while nodding. She beamed with excitement. "Okay then, I will see what I can do," she said smiling mysteriously. She gave him a brief peck on the cheek then walked up the road briskly.
Shane put on his helmet and tucked the one he gave her in his knapsack. He rode off. He needed to prepare for later.
***
Zavier came for his wife at the salon at 4:30 in the evening. As she slipped into his vehicle she kissed his cheek. He turned his face and planted a soft kiss on her lips. "Do you have time?' she asked.
"Time for?" he asked.
She looked at him and winked. She rubbed her hand on his thighs. With eyebrows raised he smiled at her.
"Oh, I always have time for that," he replied. He drove off quickly. Danae laughed.
On entering the house, Zavier lifted her over his shoulder and carried her up the stairs to their bedroom. He threw her down on the bed. Danae laughed heartily, feeling a little giddy. That move of his never ceased to catch her off guard.
He put his glasses on the night stand. Then removed his jacket, then pulled his tie, and quickly unbuttoned and pulled off his shirt. He threw them to the floor. Danae sat up watching him. His muscles flexed and rippled as he removed his watch. He unbuckled his pants and pulled down his socks. Zavier saw her watching him, her eyes devouring him, and blew her a kiss. He kicked off his shoes then unbuttoned, unzipped and pulled down his pants, then boxers. He kicked them away from him. He walked towards her, his eyes taking all of her in.
Danae watched his movements as he came towards her. The playful look on his face was gone, only the look of a hunter stalking his prey. He watched her intensely. He lay over her and looked into her eyes. She saw that he was in that kind of mood. He was going to be rough with her, but that made her feel even more excited. He placed his right hand at her throat and slowly covered it. He squeezed gently. Danae closed her eyes and moaned.
"Is this what you want Dan Dan?" he asked. His voice was low but there was something dangerous in its tone. Something that always scared but excited her. She knew he could hurt her each time they made love, but him choosing to be gentle was a turn on for her. He squeezed her throat a little harder and she arched her body up to him.
He captured her lips passionately. Slowly, he removed every stitch of clothing she wore, his eyes staring at her lustfully He lifted her up onto his lap and caressed her. She was naked and beautiful on top of him. Gently, he eased himself inside her and began thrusting in her in a slow, rhythmic way --the way he knew she liked it.
She arched her body back, riding him as she whispered his name. He bit his bottom lip as he watched her. My beautiful girl, he mused. She needed to be tamed a little. He grabbed her waist and flipped her over on the bed and began thrusting harder in her. Danae cried out his name and held on to him as he moved harder inside her.
"I love you," she cried.
"Love you," he grunted.
Zavier closed his eyes, and nibbled on her neck and her shoulders. He would give her exactly what she wanted. He lifted her onto her hands and knees on the bed. She was a temptress with the body of a twenty-five year old. Although she was forty-four and had two boys, her body was still firm and beautiful.
Holding her head down, he entered her from behind, thrusting into her slowly. She cried out his name and told him not to stop. He called her name softly. He could never leave her. He slapped her bottom and told her she was his and no one else could have her.
***
He made her coffee and brought it to her. He was wearing only his boxers and house slippers. Danae sat up in the bed and took the coffee from him. Zavier observed that her neck was darkened by an ugly blemish on her skin that looked like imprints of his fingers.
He kissed her lips and went into the medicine cabinet in the bathroom to bring back an ointment for her. He sat down and looked at her, then shook his head. He drew her up to him on the bed, opened the jar and applied copious amounts to her neck.
He kissed her swollen lips and nuzzled her nose. "I love you," he said.
She sighed. "I love you," she replied.
"I'm sorry, but next time if it hurts please make sure to tell me," he scolded. He kissed her brow. "We don't want our kids to think I'm trying to kill you."
"I will," she answered. "You still going to that meeting?" she asked.
He nodded. "Mhm," he said.
"You're not tired?" she asked amused.
He chuckled and grabbed her. She laughed as he tickled her.
Zavier paused as she said this. This was the first time she expressed this concern. "I take it out on you and our kids?" he asked.
She nodded. "You do,"she answered. "You're very grumpy and snap at us, especially Zahir," she revealed. "He admires you so much. In a way, you guys are very much alike. All this passion pent up in you two."
Zavier thought about it. He was always a little hard on Zahir because of all his kids, he never took anything seriously. "I love all of you guys, but especially you," he said. He touched her thigh. "If I do take stuff out on you it's not intentional, you know this." He cupped her face and looked into her eyes. "Not intentional." He smiled at her. "As for passion, you bring it out in me." He kissed her lips.
She shook her head. "Nope, you were always like this. I just provide an outlet," she said ruefully.
He searched her face. "Did I hurt you earlier?" He placed his hand on her groin area and patted it gently. The last thing he wanted was for her to regret their love making session. She shook her head. She chuckled. "I kinda like when you do a little," she responded. "It's not that," she said.
He looked at her puzzled. "Then what is it?" he asked.
"I'm not a fool Zav. I know you go there to gamble. I know you haven't stopped all the illegal stuff like you promised me you would," she answered.
"Zav, isn't my love enough for you? Isn't our family enough?" she asked him. Her eyes were beginning to water. "Also, I got a call from the bank, our chequing account is almost depleted. I pretend like I don't know. A little money goes missing from your safe here or there, then it's put back a day or two later. These days it's taking longer to be replenished." She sighed, then said, "Zav, I love you. I would do anything for you, well almost anything, once it doesn't trample on my self respect. Please tell me the truth. Tell me what's happening. Do we need to sell this house?"
Zav cupped her face. He stared into her eyes. "Listen to me. You have nothing to worry about. Nothing. I go to gamble, yes, but it's harmless fun. I promise you."
"But our money is depleted in the chequing account and one of our credit cards is maxed out." Zavier grimaced. He meant to deal with those things before she found out, but revenue was not coming in as usual. That was why he needed to be at the poker game. They didn't just play, they talked about what was going on with Shop --his overall business empire --and how he and his investors and top generals could improve revenue whether on the legit side or illegal side.
Zavier sighed. "The credit card, that's Izzie's fault," he told her. "I've already spoken to her about it,"
"But you haven't spoken to me," she yelled at him feeling hurt.
"Keep your voice down," he hissed. "Zahir and Zaniv are here, in their rooms." He grabbed her hand and squeezed. She yelped in pain. She grimaced then said more quietly, "If you loved me you wouldn't keep secrets from me."
He shook his head. "No, it's because I love you why I don't tell you these things. You worry a lot. You know that you worry," he replied. His voice was low.
"I worry because I'm afraid one day I'll lose you. That I will hear that someone hurt you or killed you. I know that is a reality," she said. Tears were welling up in her eyes. She blinked and one streaked down her left cheek. He released her hand and stood up. His countenance darkened as he looked at her.
"I can take care of myself. I have been doing this for nearly forty years. I know what I'm doing," he said, his voice deathly calm.
"Zav, baby, I know you can take care of yourself, but honey, please!"
"No!" Zavier hissed. He put his index finger to his lips indicating she should be quiet.
"Marcia would never question my decisions!" Zavier said quietly. He managed to keep his voice low though he was seething with anger.
"Where is Marcia now Zavier, hmm? Where is she?" Danae asked, her voice shrill.
She couldn't help it. She had to find a way to get through to him. "She never questioned anything you said or did. She's not here to see Izzie grow into the beautiful girl she is today," Danae asserted. She was fearful of an outburst from him, but someone needed to talk some sense into him.
Moving quickly he grabbed and shook her hard. "Keep your voice down," he growled. "And you don't say that! You never say that!" he whispered in anguish.
He shoved her into the crumpled sheets and walked to the door. Danae sobbed softly. "It's been five years since your sister passed. Zav please, it's time to make peace with it."
With his fists clenched and back turned to her, he said quietly: "As long as that cop is alive I will never let it rest. I'll get ready in the guest room," he said. He left the room, closing the door carefully behind him.
Danae reached for a pillow and squeezed it to her chest. She cried silently, not wanting to raise any alarm. The children knew she and their father had disagreements, but she didn't want them to see him in a bad light, especially Zaniv who had a softer heart towards her.
She got up slowly and went to wash her face. She looked at herself in the mirror and sighed. She had a scarf she could use to cover the bruise on her neck. It was a good thing the bruises to her heart were invisible.
She went back to bed and lay down, pulling the sheet up to her neck. On days like this where he would go to his poker games, she would stay up and wait for him. But she was tired and depressed. She closed her eyes. She needed to sleep.
Danae squeezed her eyes shut as tears began to flow. She sighed and went into the closet. She had a bottle of vodka stashed in a designer bag she no longer used. It was hidden in the back of a shelf.
She took it out, pulled the cork of the bottle and swallowed a light swig of the liquor, no chaser. She sipped it again and coughed a little. She felt the liquid burn her throat and chest as it went down. She took a larger sip and laughed to herself.
Her mother had warned her about Zav. She told her there was something about him that made her uncomfortable, but she didn't listen. Even after finding out what he did to earn money, she still stayed with him.
She loved him so much, she blindly thought her love could change him. Obviously, she was wrong. She had begged him not to seek revenge on the police officer he believed killed his sister, but he apparently didn't listen.
Thinking about it, if she was honest, there was nothing she asked him to do that he listened to and followed her advice. She couldn't think of anything. She had a BSc in Business Administration, but he never asked her to help streamline any of his legal businesses to make them more efficient. The only reason he allowed her to work in the salon was because her mother spoke harshly to him, and demanded he allowed her to work, after he had her sitting at home for four months after their wedding.
Her mother didn't know of Zavier's illegal dealings. She would never tell her, but now she felt like a fool, and wished she wasn't so in love with him. She wished she could leave him and not care. She touched her neck. She was now wondering if pleasurable pain was worth the price she had to pay to be with him.
She closed the bottle of vodka and dropped it in her bag. She zipped up the bag, tucked it way in the back of the shelf and closed the closet. She tiredly went to the bed. She lay back, tears streaming down her face. She wouldn't wait on him tonight. She closed her eyes and slowly fell asleep
***
There was a knock on the door. "Coming!" Shaun said as he rushed to answer, he had dinner on the stove and he didn't want it to burn. He was surprised to see a police officer standing outside his door. He eyed him curiously. "Good day," Shaun said smiling politely.
The police officer smiled briefly. "Good afternoon, my name is Inspector White," the officer replied. "I'm looking for Sergeant Crosby. I believe he is your brother."
Inspector White looked at Shaun. He didn't know Shane was a twin. He stared at him. The resemblance was uncanny. "May I step inside for a few minutes?" he asked. Shaun nodded reluctantly. He was making a pasta dish for his family. He stepped back and allowed the Inspector to enter the house. He moved quickly into the kitchen and turned off the stove.
Inspector White followed him slowly. He looked around the house, taking in important details. He stood by the kitchen door and watched as Shaun covered his food with a transparent glass cover. He leaned on the door jamb waiting for Shaun to finish what he was doing.
"How can I help you Inspector White?" Shaun straightened up after wiping clean the sauce that spilled on the stove. He turned to the sink and washed his hands. He turned off the faucet.
"I was hoping you could let me know where your brother is," Inspector White replied.
"My brother?"
"Mhm, Shane, who is apparently your twin?" Inspector White said the statement like a question.
Shaun nodded. "Yes, he is my twin," he answered. He turned around and crossed his arms over his chest. He shook his head. "I haven't seen him since I picked him up from the airport." Which was true. After he dropped him home when they came from Lissa's home, he hadn't seen him. He figured it was for his safety his brother kept his distance.
"So you're saying your twin hasn't spoken to you since you saw him at the airport?" Shaun nodded. "Well, he ate dinner with us, then I dropped him home," he said. Shane said not to contact him unless it was very important --like an emergency. Things were okay so he didn't call him.
"I thought twins were supposed to have an unbreakable bond?" Inspector White asked leaning on the door jamb. He crossed his feet at the ankles. Shaun produced a faint smile. "Twins have a strong bond but most folks think it's telepathic. It doesn't have to be the case," he answered.
Inspector White smiled broadly. "And you're saying it's not for you guys?"
Shaun shook his head indicating 'no'.
"I see," Inspector White said smiling.
"And where did you say you dropped him off?"
Shaun recited Shane's address in Barbican. Inspector White took out a pen and notepad and wrote it down. "Thank you," he said smiling briefly.
Shaun nodded but did not smile. He needed him to leave before Kerry got home.
Inspector White looked around the kitchen then looked up the hall way. "Where's the rest of the family?"
"My wife is at work and the boys are doing their homework," Shaun told him.
"You don't mind me asking them some questions?" Inspector White asked smiling.
"Yes I do actually. My boys are just eight years old. What is this about Inspector? What do you want?" Shaun asked. He was getting annoyed.
Inspector White noted the shift in Shaun demeanor then said, "I'm sorry. I never even asked your name."
Shaun laughed softly, but there was no humor to the sound. "I assume you already know my name. I'm my brother's in case of an emergency contact."
White nodded. "That is true," he replied.
"So what is this about?" Shaun asked.
White cleared his throat. "Your brother may have committed an act of public endangerment by setting his own house on fire," he said.
Shaun knew about the fire. Shane had texted him about it. He needed to act surprised. He went and sat down. He took a deep breath. "I see," he said allowing his voice to crack a little. He looked away from the Inspector White calculating what to do next. He wasn't much of an actor but he would put in a performance now.
"So what is it? You've come to tell me he's injured or something like that?" he asked. He tried to do an anguished expression. He saw a look flicker across Inspector White's face. Was it disdain or disbelief?
"So where is my brother now?" Shaun asked.
Inspector White cleared his throat. "I was hoping you could tell me," he answered. "Some serious charges could be laid against him, namely arson and public endangerment. It would be best he comes in and tells us what happened, maybe after his testimony there can be leniency."
Shaun cleared his throat. "I have no clue where he is?" he said.
"Is that true?" Inspector White asked, a sarcastic smile on his lips.
Shaun nodded. His conscience was clear with this one. Who knew where Shane was right now? Only Shane. "I have no idea where he is now," he answered.
The Inspector laughed softly. "Okay, okay," he said smiling. "Well, if you hear from him, please let him know that his colleagues are looking for him. He needs to come in. That's the only way we can help him."
Shaun nodded. "Okay, if he calls or if I see him, I will tell him what you said," he replied.
Inspector White nodded. "Okay," he answered.
He turned to walk to the door. Shaun followed him. As he was about to open the door, he heard the pattering of small feet. He turned to see a young boy skipping down the stairs. His face cracked into a broad smile. "Ha!" he exclaimed. "One of your sons?" he asked.
Noah stopped at the last step and said, "Dad, Nathan and I want orange juice. Can we have some before dinner?"
Shaun smiled at his son. "You can have it with dinner. Food is ready. Son, this is Inspector White, he was just leaving, so we can eat in the next five minutes."
"I was wondering," Inspector White interjected. "Noah, when was the last time you saw your uncle Shane?"
Noah looked up at his dad. Shaun looked at his son. His eyes softened. Noah smiled at his daddy. He looked at the police man and shook his head. "I haven't seen uncle Shane since daddy brought him home from the airport and he came for dinner," he said.
Shaun smiled at his son. He looked at Inspector White. "Speaking of dinner, my sons are eight they need to eat on time to keep their strength up, so ..."
Inspector White nodded. He chuckled softly. "I'm leaving, but remember to tell him what I said. And tell him this also, he has a week to turn himself in then High Command will show him no mercy."
Inspector White dropped the smile from his lips. He looked down at Noah, his eyes staring at him. Shaun stepped in front of him. "You need to leave. It's dinner time," Shaun said coldly. Inspector White nodded. He opened the door, and Shaun closed and locked it. He pulled his son to his side and hugged him.
"Is uncle Shane in trouble?" Noah asked.
Shaun sighed. He nodded then said, "Yeah, he is. If anyone comes to you and asks you the same question: 'When was the last time you saw him?' Tell them the same thing, you haven't seen him since he came over for dinner, after I brought him from the airport."
"But that was the last time I saw him," Noah said simply.
Shaun rubbed his back. "But if you see him after that, for now, until I tell you otherwise say that was the last time. Okay?
Noah nodded. "Okay," he said. Then, "Daddy, I'm hungry."
Shaun smiled at him. He rubbed his head. "Go call your brother," he said.
Noah ran upstairs. Shaun smiled as he watched him race up the stairs. He would have to help Nathan to understand he needed to do the same thing. Even though Nathan was eight years old, he hated lying. He got that trait from his mother, but Shaun knew he would do it to protect his uncle.
He retrieved his phone from his jeans pocket and sent off a message to Shane telling him to cancel his weekend visit. It was possible that the police were watching the house. He also texted that he had to give the address of the house in Barbican so it would be best to avoid that location. He would call him tomorrow. Right now he needed to have a family meeting. He hoped Kerry would be home soon.
When the two boys came downstairs he hugged them both and began serving the food. He missed his brother, but realized him keeping his distance was the best thing for now. At first, he didn't agree, but now he saw that what he did was for the best.
***
Dana finished her shift at 7:05 p.m. and hurried to her car. She put in her thermos, her water bottle and sweater. Sometimes the administrative section of the station was cold from the ac unit. As she was about the sit inside her vehicle, Reynolds walked up to her. He leaned into the window of the driver's side. "Where you rushing off to?" he asked. He smiled mischievously at her.
"Just need to get home," she said smiling at him.
"Hmm? Is that so?" he said softly. "Well, if you happen to see Sarge today, let him know High Command says they're giving him a week to turn himself in, after which they won't be willing to consider any extenuating circumstances that caused him to go off."
Dana shook her head. "I haven't seen Sarge in a while, but you are his best friend. The closest one he has in the Force. You can call and tell him," she said.
"I've tried calling. The phone goes straight to voicemail. And as I recall you're also quite close to him. Matter-of-fact, he always said if he was in a gun fight he would want you right by his side, since you're such a sharp shooter," he said smiling at her.
Dana chuckled. "He said that?" she asked. Sarge Reynolds nodded. "Mhm," he answered.
Dana smiled. She would ask Shane later if what Mark said was true. "Well, I don't know about that. But as I said, I haven't seen him," she replied.
Mark tapped the top of the window, "Alrighty then, but if you do, let him know." His countenance sobered. He walked away. Dana watched him. She sighed. Things were not going well.
She started her car and drove off. She looked briefly at her watch. It was 7:15 p.m. She floored the gas pedal. She needed to get home, shower and change in time for him to come get her. She also wanted to do something fancy to her hair.
She arrived home at 7:35 p.m. Her phone was ringing as she stepped out of the vehicle. She accepted the call, but before she could say anything Shane spoke. "Change of plans," he said. "I'm taking you somewhere else. I'll explain. But I want to take you somewhere more secure."
He blew kisses at her. "Can you be off this weekend?' he asked her.
She cleared her throat. "Um ... I could ask Corporal Jackson to change shifts with me but that would mean I would work her nights next weekend," she told him. "I wouldn't be able to work at Z's place."
"There could be a work around for that as well." he told her. "Dee-Dee," he said lovingly. "I wanna spend time with you. I promise to be a gentleman."
She giggled softly. She liked that he used her pet name. "Okay, let me call her then call you back," she said.
He blew her a kiss. "Okay," he said then hung up.
As she entered her house and put down her work bag, she dialed Corporal Jackson's number. She greeted her and asked if she could work her weekend and she would work her nights next week.
Corporal Jackson agreed on the condition that she do a double the following weekend. Her niece's graduation was coming up. She wasn't sure she would get to go, but now that Dana asked, if she was willing to work that weekend she would agree. Dana agreed. Corporal Jackson said, "Okay," then hung up.
She called Shane back, "She agreed but I may have to work late two weekends in a row," he told her.
"Trust me," he told her. "Everything will work out." He knew who to call to pull some strings in HR for him.
Dana smiled. She hoped he was right.
"Text me your address. I'm coming for you," he said.
"Okay," Dana responded.
Shane ended the call and sent him her address via text. He texted back that he would give her an hour and thirty minutes to get ready. She should pack something formal, underwear, casual wear, comfortable clothes for sleeping, and a bathing suit.
When she saw the part about bathing suit she laughed. She had an old one she hadn't worn in awhile. I don't even know where that is right now, she thought amused. She had a pair of boy shorts she could use as a bottom and she could wear a sports bra as her bathing suit top. She smiled. "Yeah, I'll do that then," she said to herself.
She undressed quickly and went to bathe.
***
Shane pulled up at her gate. He looked at the house. It seemed to be a small one bedroom house. It was slab roofed and painted in white and gold. He called her. "I'm outside," he said as she answered.
"Okay," she said. Shane got out of the car. He went through the gate and walked to the door. He knocked. After a minute Dana opened the door. He looked her up and down. His eyes widened as he stared at her. She was gorgeous.
"We're still going to dinner right?" she asked.
He nodded. "Yes, we are," he smiled appreciatively at her. "You ..." He was speechless. She blushed. "Dana, you're beautiful," he said. He came closer and hugged her. The dark blue dress with thin spaghetti straps she was wearing hugged her curves in the most complementary way. He had no idea her waist was so small.
He stepped back and looked at her again. Her breasts looked fuller in the dress. He wanted to touch them, but he would restrain himself. He touched her face. She was wearing makeup but it looked good on her. It wasn't cakey looking. He was mesmerized.
He looked at her hair: long, thick and slightly wavy. She had it loose, cascading down her back. He took her left hand and kissed it. "You are ravishing," he said softly. She chuckled. "You're looking good too," she told him.
He was wearing a dark blue blazer, light blue button-up shirt and black jeans. He was also sporting a silver chain around his neck. Dana noticed that he was wearing the watch she gave him. His feet were covered in comfortable black loafers. They looked new and nicely polished. She couldn't help but bite her bottom lip. He looked very sexy. He smelled really good too. Dana inhaled him.
Shane reached for her and hungrily kissed her lips. They were kissing for more than a minute when he released her. If they continued they would be late for their rendezvous. He kissed the bare skin of her right shoulder and reluctantly stepped away from her. She smelled like fragrant lilies in bloom. The scent was subtle but quite captivating to his senses.
He looked at her. "Do you have things packed and ready?" he asked.
She smiled at him. She stepped into the room and brought out a small duffle bag. He took it from her, held her hand and led her to the car. When she saw it she did a little scream. He smiled at her, surprised at her girlie squeal. "You like it?" he asked. He rested his hand on her lower back as she stood and stared at his new vehicle.
She hugged him. "Shane, I'm so happy for you!" she said excitedly. "You never told me!"
"I wanted to surprise you," he said. He watched her enthusiasm. It was his vehicle, not hers, but she acted like she had won the lottery or something. He rubbed her back. She was definitely a different kind of woman. He disarmed the vehicle and opened the passenger side for her. She slid inside still smiling. He opened the trunk and tucked her back beside his in the back. He gently slammed the door shut.
He came around, opened his passenger side and sat inside, closing the door carefully. Starting the engine, he listened to it purr with a satisfied smile. He turned and looked at her. Dana leaned back into the plush, comfy seat and grinned at him. He drove off, observing the traffic carefully.
They drove for nearly an hour to a secluded villa in the lush St. Andrew hills. After he drove up to the tall iron gate he took out his phone and made a call. "Yeah, we're here," Dana heard him say. "Okay, thank you." He hung up.
They waited and a man came to the gate and opened it for them. He instructed them to drive around to the side of the house and park. There were four other vehicles already present in the parking space.
He smiled at her. He kissed her hand. "Don't move," he told her. He got out of the car, walked around to her side of the vehicle and opened the door for her. He put his hand out to her. She took it and stepped out carefully. As he looked at her hand he realized that her finger nails were freshly painted in a pale blue color with glittery nail polish glossing over them.
He looked at her feet. He hadn't noticed before that she was wearing dark-blue suede strapped shoes, with two inch high, thick heels. Her toes were glistening, but it was with the plain, pale blue nail polish. Noticing his inspection of her, Dana giggled then said, "I'm sorry, I didn't have the time to put something more fancy on my toes."
"They are beautiful," he said. His gaze softened as he looked at her face. "One of these days I'll kiss them for you." She was surprised, but said," Okay ... um, I'll look forward to that." Smiling at her, he tucked her hand under her arm and leisurely walked to the entrance of the villa.
***
There were four other couples present in the small but fancy dining hall. Shane watched her as she ate. She ordered curry shrimp while he felt more for roasted duck. He allowed her to try a piece of duck meat. She said she would eat it again but not very often. He chuckled and told her it was an acquired taste.
Her skin was glowing. It looked soft and beautiful. He wanted to caress it. He longed to press his lips on it. Who was he fooling? He wanted to make love to her. That was why he made sure to tell the rep that helped him book this place last minute to give them separate rooms.
As he ate his meal he engaged her in small talk. He found her to be very humorous and quite affable. Several times during their conversation she made him laugh. He was loving this more informal side of her. He felt privileged that he was getting this rare glimpse into who she was outside of the blue uniform.
He reached over and touched her hand that held the dinner fork. She looked up at him. "You are so beautiful. I want you to know that whatever happens between us tonight, or this weekend I won't leave you," he said. His eyes bored into her.
Dana chewed slowly, then swallowed her shrimp and basmati rice carefully. She didn't want to choke. She looked into his eyes and saw passion smoldering in their depths. She felt flushed.
While he held on to her hand she used the other to put the water goblet to her mouth. She drank the water thirstily. "Dana, I want to make love to you so bad. I need you. I want you," he whispered. His voice was deep and husky. Dana almost choked on the water. She put the glass down quickly and did a little cough. "You okay?" he asked, smiling at her. He figured she was nervous.
She cleared her throat. "Eh-ehm, yeah, I'm okay. You said you wanted us to wait," she reminded him.
He chuckled and nodded. "Yes, sweet Dana. Yes, I said that, and I meant it. But seeing you like this, so mesmerizing, so tempting, I'm weak," he told her. "I want you really bad," he said. "I'm dying to please you."
She could tell by the cadence of his voice that he really wanted her. She wanted him too, but, "Baby, I love you. I want to experience what making love to you feels like, but I don't want to violate your principles as a Christian. Plus, I grew up in a God fearing home as well."
He remembered the tiny cross between her breasts. He smiled sheepishly. "The other day I noticed the cross between your breasts. I wanted to ask you about it," he told her. He looked at her cleavage. It just dawned on him that she wasn't wearing the necklace now.
She smiled. She took her hand from him, picked up her fork and started eating again. "I don't want to do anything to violate your conscience. Plus, I like the thought that we can wait until we're married," she said. "I know it will be hard but," she sighed, "I sort of, kind of promised my grandma I would wait until I am married before I have sex again. The cross belonged to her. She bequeathed it to me in her Will before she died."
His eyes flew open. "You never told me this," Shane said, surprised.
She nodded. "Yeah, I'm sorry." She sighed then continued, "When my grandma found out that I had sex with my ex --that he had cheated on me and I left him --she asked me to come spend time with her in Portland. I spent the summer there and she told me about her life's story. She told me about grandpa, and how he was the love of her life and so on.
"She told me that even though it was hard for them and that they ended up having sex before they got married, they made a vow to wait afterwards. She said that time was very difficult for her, but they were able to keep the vow.
"When they got married and made love again, it was as if it was their first time. She said it was better than before. She told me to make sure the next person I make love to is the love of my life and that he wants to wait. Shane, baby, when you told me you wanted to wait I was happy. I want to wait for you. You are more than worth it."
Shane looked into her eyes. Now he understood why it had only been one man before him. His respect for her grew even stronger. "I love you," he said. He took a deep breath and released it slowly. "I'm sorry, baby, you are right. You are worth waiting for." His eyes rested on her full, round cleavage. "You are so worth it."
She smiled shyly at him. She continued eating her meal. Shane watched her eating for close to a minute then took up his fork and resumed eating his roasted duck and fried rice. She's definitely the answer to my prayers, he mused.
Oh Lord help me to honor this girl by waiting, he prayed in his heart. He ate his meal, suddenly feeling ravenous. His mind was thinking about how to get her married quickly. He would exchange the ring he had bought for Lissa for a new one. She deserved it.
She cleared her throat. "You should know that High Command is giving you one week to turn yourself in, after which there won't be any leniency where the arson charges are concerned," she said. She took a deep breath and released it slowly.
Shane nodded. "They are doing their jobs," he replied. He read the text from his brother. He also expected it. He had done wrong. Setting his house on fire was a foolish move, and it was totally outside of his character. He however had a plan. It was time he used his intelligence and tactical experience to his advantage.
"Aren't you worried?" she asked dismayed by his seemingly nonchalant attitude.
He shook his head. "Not for me, more so for my family and you," he answered.
She couldn't believe it. She stared at him in disbelief. Didn't he care? "Don't you care about your future? What about ours together?" she asked.
He smiled at her. "Dana, I don't want you to worry. Everything will work out, okay? Please trust me," he assured her. He reached for her hand and she gave it to him. He squeezed it. "Trust me," he said reassuringly.
She nodded. She hoped he was right.
***
LIssa kissed Ryan good bye and walked through the gates of her best friend's home. She knocked on the door. She heard movement inside. Prudence came to the door and opened it. She looked at her, her face showing her annoyance. Lissa smiled sheepishly. Prudence stepped back, and walked away from her.
"Hey," Lissa said quietly. She had a small travelling bag in her hand. She stepped into the house, closing the door behind her.
Prudence turned around and looked at her. "Hey yourself. Where are you coming from?" she asked. Lissa sighed. "I spent time with my friend," Lissa answered.
"I see," Prudence responded. "So tell me something: this supposed visit with me, was it to secretly see your lover or what?"
Lissa dropped her bag on the floor. She walked towards her friend. She was about to say, "I'm sor ..." when Prudence held up her hand to stop her. Prudence was angry. "We've been friends since university, you have been my dearest friend but maybe I'm not your friend," she said.
"That's not true," Lissa protested. "You are my best friend."
"Best friend and you haven't spoken to me in months? The last time I spoke to you we talked about Derrick and your frustrations with him, but you never told me you were going to leave him. Now you come here and have a man I don't know come for you and drop you off. I don't even get a proper introduction. Not even a 'Hey Pru this is so and so ...'"
"Ryan," Lissa interjected.
"Now you say so. You only mentioned his name before when you told me you're now pregnant for another man! I can't believe your parents approve of all this you're doing," she said angrily. Then it dawned on her. She came closer to her friend. "Do they know Lissa? Do they know that you're seeing this guy while pregnant for the other man?"
Lissa pursed her lips.
"Oh my God! Lissa!" Prudence was very angry now. "So what am I now, an enabler so you can go off galavanting with this new man, and your family and your baby father don't know?"
"No, no Pru, it's not like that," Lissa answered. "Things were tense at home because ..." She paused.
"Because what?" Prudence asked, her eyes boring into her. "Look 'ere you have ten seconds to tell me what's really happening or you can pack your bags and guh back a yuh yaad!" she threatened.
Lissa sighed. She sat down on her friend's couch. "I told you about Shane and the fact that Derrick cheated. The thing is, there's this man named Mr Z who's trying to kill Shane. He came after me and my family. My parents are really angry about it. My little brother's life was in danger recently. Bad men invaded our home and shot it up."
"So you guys moved or wah?!" Pru asked interrupting. She was stunned by this revelation.
Lissa shook her head. "No, we just installed a new door, albeit a metal door, and we're getting the gun shot holes in our walls patched," she told her.
"Gun shot holes patched!" Pru swallowed hard. "And you're pregnant in the middle of this?"
Lissa nodded sadly.
"So why come here Lissa? Even if I could hide you here, you're not staying hidden. You're off with this new guy," Prudence challenged.
"We've only spent time indoors, at his apartment," Lissa answered.
"So ... so you've been staying in his apartment?" Pru asked, her eyes wide and bulging. "Have you slept with him?"
Lissa nodded.
"Suh why yuh never just stay wid him then? Just guh stay wid him because yuh never come to spend time with me!" Pru was so angry. She felt used.
Lissa's heart sank. "I did come to spend time with you Pru." she said. She reached out a hand to pat her friend's thigh.
"No!" Pru slapped it away. "Nubadda wid that! Lissa, I am your friend, but mi a guh seh something yuh nah guh like, I'm going to say it anyway! Yuh see this all that you're doing, mi nah shame yuh, but yuh nah behave right. Yah behave like a little slut!
"Okay, I can understand you leaving Derrick because he's treating you poorly. As far as I'm concerned yuh shudda leff dah bwoy deh when him ask fi di threesome. That was your first clue! But alright you stay with him. When you found out he cheated you finally left him. Good! But you were cheating as well! Lissa, own the fact that you never told Derrick that it was over. You just fell into the arms of someone else! And now with this guy Shane --your baby father-- the first likkle sign of trouble yuh just run leff him and go to someone else?!"
"You're acting like all of this was deliberate! None of this is my fault! I never wanted this situation!" Lissa responded passionately. Her voice was slightly elevated. She wouldn't address the 'slut' word. She was trying to stay calm.
"I still care for Shane, but I don't want to die! I'm also pregnant. I have these little guys to think of." She touched her tummy. "Pru, Mr Z sent men to kidnap me twice! Armed men hunted Shane and I down in Westmoreland, and then when we got back into Kingston the threat continued. I just told you they shot up my house!" She was feeling frustrated.
"Wait, you were in Westmoreland?" Pru asked shocked.
Lissa nodded.
"Shane took me there after Mr Z sent men to kill him while he was leaving my house!" Lissa said her voice raised. "Pru, I'm only human. I tried to be patient and work with him. On top of all that he left me. He just disappeared for over three months. Barely any phone calls and I didn't see him.
"The other day when you dropped me off in Papine to meet him was the first time I saw him in over three months. When we spoke he told me my mom demanded that he stay away from me. He said he told her he would keep his distance but he wouldn't leave me, but as far as I'm concerned he did leave me. When I needed him to comfort me he wasn't there."
"Has he been to any of the doctor's appointments for the babies?" Pru asked.
Lissa shook her head sadly. "And it's not because I have restricted him. He wasn't around." She felt so overwhelmed. She started to cry. Pru reached for her and gave her a hug. Lissa cried, her body shaking.
"Pru, it's over between us. My house got shot up, he couldn't stop what he was doing to come see me. He held a gun on me and Ryan, then he burned his house down!"
Pru gasped. "What?! Lissa!" She put her away from her, her hands on her arms. She couldn't believe what she said was true. "Please tell me you're kidding?!
Lissa gave her a look of sarcasm.
Pru's eyes were as big as saucers."You weren't in ...?"
"No," Lissa said shaking her head. "Ryan took me out of the house. After he was carrying me to safety was when Shane set his house on fire."
"But I never heard anything in the news," Pru said perplexed.
"Probably a cover up," Lissa answered bitterly.
Lissa leaned away from Pru. "Look Pru, I'm sorry I've been away for the past two days. I even told Ryan I want to make sure I spend the rest of my week here with you, and we can hang out and talk. But I like Ryan. He's very considerate. He's very gentle with me and kind. He says he loves me, and has always loved me. I really like him. I had planned on introducing you to him when he comes to take me home this Sunday. I just wanted to smooth things over with him and establish what he and I are doing, you know, whether we'll be dating or not."
"And?" Pru asked, eyebrows raised.
"Yes, we're seeing each other," Lissa said with a sigh.
"Why did this Shane guy hold a gun on you?" Pru asked. She was scared for her friend.
"He suspected that Ryan and I were lovers, because I told him I wanted he and I to co-parent. I no longer wanted to be with him."
"Were you?"
Lissa shook her head. "No, no, not at that time," she said. "You could say he drove me into Ryan's arms. Ryan told me how he felt about me, but I was still hoping to rekindle something with Shane. But after my dad cussed me out and I couldn't get in touch with Shane, I called you."
"So that's when you called me?" Pru asked.
Lissa nodded. "Yes," she said, "I realized I couldn't depend on him. When I went to see him and he confronted me about Ryan, and I saw his behavior, I lost all hope we could be together." She took her friend's right hand from her lap and clasped it in hers. "I'm sorry Pru. I didn't mean to drag you into this."
Prudence hugged her and rubbed her back. "Hun, it's okay. From now on, please let me know what's happening with you, okay?"
Lissa nodded. "I will," she said.
Pru gave her friend a brief squeeze. She smiled at her as she moved away from her. "Would you like some hot Milo tea?" she asked.
Lissa chuckled a little. She nodded. Back at university they practically lived on cornflakes, condensed milk and Milo.
"You have cornflakes?" Lissa asked smiling.
Pru grinned. "But of course!" she replied. She stood up and pulled her friend to her feet. "Let's make some cornflakes and Milo, and you can tell me about your friend Ryan."
Lissa's smile brightened. "Okay," she said. She followed her into the kitchen.
***
N walked into the room and saw Danae sleeping, He touched her arm. Zaniv had gone to visit Zolah, while Zahir and Isabel had gone to a house party in Norbrook. Z asked him last minute to check on her. N perceived his friend and boss was feeling guilty for some reason. He knew his boss and Danae had issues just like any other married couple but he was concerned for her.
He watched her sleeping. Her beautiful natural curls, cut in a cute little pixie hairstyle, made her look angelic and more youthful than her 44 years. He lightly squeezed her arm. She stirred and he called her name. Danae opened her eyes and looked at him. She pulled the sheet closer to her neck and sat up, her knees bent to her chest.
N stepped back. "Zavier asked me to check in on you," he told her. His icy blue eyes observed her closely. Danae did a quiet yawn. "I'm fine Nesbeth, you didn't need to wake me up to see that I'm okay," she said annoyed.
He came closer to her. "Is there anything you want me to do for you?" he asked.
Danae looked at him. His angular, narrow face was filled with concern. Her eyes lowered to the prominent collar bones exposed by his shirt. He was wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans. He had a gun holster strapped across his back. A Glock pistol was tucked under his left arm.
"Why wear that here?" she asked a little fearful.
"What?" he asked, smiling kindly at her.
"The gun. Is it to protect me or to keep me from leaving?" she asked.
He walked towards the door, drew the single chair in the room near her bed, and sat on it facing her. "What do you think?" he asked. She noticed a black leather jacket thrown across the back of the chair and figured it was his.
"Nes, I don't know, you do. He tells you everything," she said her voice cracked a little. Nesbeth was alert to the change in her mood. "He told me to make sure you're safe. That is all he told me," N replied. She's beautiful, he thought to himself.
"Well, I am okay," Danae said tiredly. "You can leave me alone now."
She got up from the bed to walk to the bathroom and felt groggy. Maybe she drank too much vodka this time. Nesbeth noticed her wobbling movement and stood up slowly. She took another step and her legs buckled under her. N moved swiftly and grabbed her from hitting the floor. He pressed her against him. He smelt alcohol on her breath and sighed.
"Let me go!" Danae said struggling to break free from him.
You can't support your body weight right now. Have you been drinking?" he asked.
Danae's eyes flashed danger. "Let me go!" she shouted.
He released her. Danae's legs failed her and she crumpled to the floor. Nesbeth swore quietly. He lifted her in his arms and laid her on the bed. She started to cry.
"Maybe I should call Zavier and tell him to cut his game short. If you're not feeling well ..." he said
"Please," Danae said interrupting him. Her eyes pleaded with him. "Please, don't call him. Please."
"The scars on your neck, who did that? Was it him?" he asked.
Danae did not answer.
"Dan Dan, please, tell me, did Zavier do this to you?" Nesbeth asked his voice becoming a little unstable. He was getting angry. Zavier was his good friend, but he knew Danae long before he did.
She nodded. "It's not what you think. He didn't ..." She blushed. "Zavier and I are husband and wife," she said feeling awkward. "It was just foreplay," she blurted out.
"Foreplay?" Nesbeth felt disgusted. He leaned back from her.
Danae nodded. "We made love and during that time, he ... you get the picture."
"I see," Nesbeth said. "I'll stay half an hour more then leave."
"I need to use the bathroom," she told him.
"Need my help?" he asked politely.
She nodded.
"Scoot over to the edge of the bed," N instructed.
She did as she was told. He lifted her, his arms under her shoulders and legs, and carried her to the bathroom. He placed her feet by the toilet. He closed the door behind him.
When she was done she flushed. Pulled up her underwear, fixed her night gown, and went to the sink to wash her hands. She turned off the faucet and looked at herself in the mirror. She moved slowly to the door and opened it. N rushed to her side. He lifted her and brought her back to the bed. As she lay back she got a whiff of the aftershave on his neck. She liked it. As she stretched out her legs the skirt of her night gown rode up exposing soft, brown skin.
N noticed then averted his eyes. Choosing to look at the ceiling, he said, "Um ... fix your nightie."
He did not respond.
She turned on her side facing him.
"How's your little brother Zach?" she asked.
Nesbeth sighed. "He's fine. He's away at university in London," he told her.
"Why didn't it work out between us Nes?" she asked.
Nesbeth cleared his throat, but did not answer. Danae looked at him. If she remembered correctly, he was a year older than her, so he would be 45 years old. He had not one grey hair on his head, while Zav had many. He had dark brown hair that was curly when long, but straight when cut short. It was short now with a tapered cut at the sides of his head.
He had a sharp jaw line, a sexy double chin and icy blue eyes. His eyes were so clear blue they didn't seem human. His white skin had a healthy, golden tan from living many years on the island. He was devastatingly handsome.
He still had a British accent. He was soft spoken with a deep, calming tone that she did like. She'd known him since high school. She knew him before she knew Zav.
"I had feelings for you, I even told you how I felt," she said. "Remember that kiss? You kissed me back Nes. Remember you told me you loved me. You told me you craved feeling my brown skin on yours."
"That's water under the bridge," he replied. His eyes seemed like blue ice burning. He stared at her, a tiny smirk curving his thin lips. She remembered their kiss. His lips were soft on her skin. She closed her eyes and thought of the night he told her he loved her.
He snuck into her room while Zavier was downstairs talking to some of his cronies. Apparently something had gone wrong and he was trying to figure out who betrayed him. He asked N to run an errand for him, and while he was locked in a meeting, Nes came up to see her. At that time she would just visit Zavier, she wasn't yet his wife.
Nesbeth knocked on the door of the guest room and she opened it for him. He gathered her in his arms and lifted her in the air. With his arms around her hips, he looked up at her face and told her he needed to feel her soft, brown skin all over him.
When he lowered her to his eye level he kissed her hungrily, squeezing her close to him. He said he needed her, that he loved her and he wanted her. She told him that she felt the same way. She loved him. Zav made sure she got all that she needed, but he had very little time for her back then. He always asked Nes to check on her, and while he did this, the attraction between them grew.
Danae stared at him sitting on the chair in her bedroom. His legs were open, back resting on the chair. She always loved his strong, thick thighs. He had gone away to England for three years to play semi-pro rugby. But when Zavier asked him to come back he did.
She sighed and sat up. Mustering a little strength she climbed off the bed and walked towards him. He stood up. "What are you doing?" he asked, his voice low with a hint of warning. She was wobbly but she was going to make it to where he was standing. When she got to him she grabbed onto his forearms, and was relieved that he held on to her shoulders. She felt the latent strength in his touch and wished he would grab her, and show her what she was missing.
"Dan Dan, you're tired, and you're drunk. You need to sleep it off," N said.
Tentatively, she reached her right hand up to touch his freshly shaven face. She closed her eyes as she touched him. "Maybe if you hadn't been afraid to defy Zav, you and I ..." She opened her eyes and looked at him. "Do you still love me Nes?"
Nesbeth turned his head to stare at the wall. Danae turned his face back to her. "Your eyes always tell me the truth Nes. Your clear blue eyes can't hide anything from me." He closed his eyes and stepped away from her.
"Half hour is up. I'll call Zavier and let him know you're okay. I won't tell him you've been drinking," he said quietly.
Nes, wait ..." She walked up to him. She brushed her hands on his chest. Besides Midnight, who she now knew as Kyle, Nesbeth was an enforcer for Zav, until they both realized that his skin color would stick out like a sore thumb on an island of predominantly dark skinned people. She pressed into his chest. He was still well muscled. She looked at his face. She saw something in the depths of his eyes. She lifted herself on tiptoe to kiss him.
Nesbeth grabbed her by the back of her neck and lifted her in his arms. She gasped. He had never shown a rough side to her, but she liked what he was doing now. He threw her unceremoniously on the bed. He walked to its edge and looked down at her. She was disappointed to see disdain not passion.
"Have a good night Mrs. Sterling," he said. His deep voice with its sexy British accent was sending delightful chills up her spine. She heard the gritty nature of his tone and knew she had rattled him, and he was angry with her because of it. N grabbed his leather jacket and walked to the door. He opened and clicked it shut quietly behind him.
Danae sighed and turned on her side. There was a time he declared his love for me. Before I was pregnant with Zaniv, he came and asked me to run away with him to England, but I was so enamored with Zavier I told him no. Now he hates me, she berated herself.
She shut her eyes, squeezing back tears. She already knew the answer to the question why the relationship went nowhere. Their relationship couldn't work because she preferred being a kingpin's wife, than to marry the son of a lowly welder turned commercial farmer.
Nesbeth loved her, but she wanted more. It was too late now. She screamed into her pillow and cried for what could have been.
***
Shane held Dana's hand as he walked with her to her room. As they stood at her door and chatted a little, he complimented her on how beautiful she looked. He touched her face. Slowly, he leaned in for a kiss. Dana lifted her face. Shane kissed her hungrily, tenderly sucking on her bottom lip. She melted against him as he deepened their kiss.
Shane pulled her into his embrace and groaned as he kissed her soft lips. He moved his hands down to her hips and squeezed her body on his. A faint moan escaped Dana's mouth. He placed delicate kisses on her lips then her neck. She leaned against the door as he made a trail of sensuous kisses from her neck to her shoulders.
He had the room card in his hand, while holding her close to him, he pulled her away from the door and placed the card over the door sensor. The door opened and he pocketed the card. He lifted Dana in his arms and carried her into the room. He laid her on the bed then went back to close the door. The lock clicked in place.
He looked at her. "You are so beautiful," he told her. Dana sat up and looked at him. She wanted him, but she was scared. She hadn't had sex in years and she also wanted to wait.
She yawned. Feeling embarrassed, she covered her mouth and laughed feeling awkward. He came to her and sat on the bed beside her. "Sleepy?" he asked.
She nodded. He touched her face. "You've had a long day. Let's get you settled and ready for bed."
He touched her feet, gently caressing her ankles. He lifted them onto his lap and unbuckled her shoes. Pulling the heeled sandals off her feet, he heard her groan of relief and chuckled softly. He massaged her feet.
Dana lay back and sighed. "Thank you," she said. She smiled at him. "You are welcome," he replied. He gently massaged her feet and ankles, pressing carefully into the sole of her feet with his thumbs. She closed her eyes.
Shane watched her. She looked happy. He stared at her feet. They were really cute. Each of her toes were neat and beautifully formed. God took his time on you, he thought. He lifted her left leg and bent his head to reach it half way. He kissed her toes. Dana was surprised. Her eyes flew open.
"Shane? I-I,' she said.
"You don't like what I'm doing?" he asked.
She blushed. "I do. I-I've never had. No one ..."
"No one ever kissed your feet before?" he asked amused by her shyness.
She shook her head feeling disoriented. He smiled at her. He bent his head again and tenderly kissed her feet then slowly kissed and suckled her toes. Dana never expected the sensations his lips were evoking in her. She arched her back and moaned as bursts of pleasure flowed through her body..
"Ohh baby, Shane," she whispered. He moved his lips from her feet, up her leg, to her thigh. He switched legs and began kissing the toes of her right foot, trailing kisses up to her thigh. He stopped his kisses just below the sensitive areas of her inner thighs.
He wanted to kiss even further but would refrain from doing it. He wanted that moment to be special for her. It would be the first time any man tasted her. He would wait until the time was right. He reached down and squeezed the back of her legs instead. He looked up at her face. Her eyes were closed, her body arching. She was biting her bottom lip.
"Dana, I want to make love to you, so I think I better leave now," he said his voice deep and husky. "If I stay any longer I'm going to ravish you. It's taking all my restraints not to rip this dress off you."
Dana's mouth felt dry. She nodded. "I ... Yes, I think you should go," she said. Her body was screaming for him to make love to her, but she would try to resist as much as possible. Her heart was pounding. Her loins were throbbing with need for him. She wanted to tell him to stay.
He came up to the top of the bed and looked down at her, she was breathing shallow. He placed soft pecks on her forehead and cheeks then sat back. "Good night sweet baby. Sleep well," he said.
He stood up and walked to the door. He looked back at her. Dana could see his longing. She wouldn't make a move. All she said was, "Good night baby." He nodded and placed the room's access card on the small table nearby the door.
Shane blew her a kiss, opened the door and closed it behind him. Dana lay back feeling relieved. She was gonna have to fight herself to resist him. She sat up and undressed. She took out a t-shirt and shorts, with some not so sexy underwear and went to bathe.
She was tired. All she needed right now was a warm shower and a cool bed to sleep in. Stepping into the fancy glass shower enclosure she adjusted the shower knob to medium heat. As the water gushed from the shower head she sighed and closed her eyes. Stepping into the warm water she allowed her hair to get wet. She would comb it, wrap it and cover it in a silk scarf, and go to bed.
She entered the bedroom, dimmed the light and lay down. Her eyes flew open. She thought she heard something creepy outside her window.
***
Shane took off his jacket and slowly unbuttoned his shirt. He pulled his belt buckle, then unbuttoned and unzipped his pants. He heard a faint sound on the outside, on the balcony of his room. He opened the glass door and stepped out of the room onto the balcony.
Looking around he saw nothing. He heard the yowling sound again and realized it was a male orange and white cat in 'heat'. The animal was running across the grassy lawn below. "Bredda is not you alone," he said amused.
He stepped into the room and slid the door back in place. He took off his pants and laid it with his shirt and blazer on a single hanger on the wall. Stretching tiredly, he went to brush his teeth then shower.
Stepping out of the bathroom with just a towel wrapped around his waist, he stretched sleepily. He heard a knock on the front door. He wondered who it was. "Who is it?" he asked.
"It's me, Dana," the voice said. Shane opened the door quickly.
He was surprised to see her at his door. She was wearing a t-shirt and shorts. Not very tempting, but it was her flustered look that got his attention. He pulled her into the room and closed the door.
He cupped her face with both hands. "Are you okay?" he asked.
"I don't sleep very well in strange beds for the first two nights or so. Plus, I heard strange sounds outside my window. Can I stay with you?" she asked. Her eyes were pleading with him.
He kissed her brow. "Okay," he said. His tone was low and reassuring. Dana closed her eyes. She was open to whatever would happen between them in his room. She didn't want to be alone tonight.
Shane lifted her, brought her to the bed and laid her down. He didn't know if she was saying those things as an excuse to be in his bed, or she really hated sleeping alone in a strange bed. Either way he was glad to have her with him. He wouldn't assume anything beyond what she told him for now. He lay beside her and touched her face. She smiled at him. He got up, grabbed pajamas from his bag and got dressed in the bathroom.
When he came out she had pulled up the covers around her. He slipped under them with her and cradled her in his arms. Dana sighed and said, "Thank you."
"You're welcome baby," he replied. He kissed her brow. Her hair was in a silk scarf. He kissed her head, snuggled up to her and closed his eyes. Within seconds he was fast asleep.
Dana listened to his breathing. She looked at his face while he slept. He's so handsome! she thought. She was nervous that he would take advantage of her mini anxiety attack. But she was relieved that when it came down to it, he was a gentleman. She was grateful. She was enjoying his arms around her shoulders. Adjusting the pillow under her head and neck she closed her eyes. She listened to his steady breathing and drifted off to sleep.
***
He was down forty thousand dollars. He refused to show that he was feeling uneasy. Gregory Schande was raking in the winnings tonight. He stretched his hand out and drew more of the chips his way. Zavier watched as he did this then turned his head to look at his frenemy, Midnight aka Kyle, who had a brooding look on his face. Kyle lifted his head and stared in his direction. Zavier produced a faint smile and nod. Kyle returned the gesture.
Zavier reached for his half filled glass of bourbon and took two sips. He put his glass down and observed the men sitting around the table. Jerome Baker began to deal the cards again. Zavier took his 'hand' and looked at it. His eyes lit up. Finally, something I can work with! he thought.
There were eight men sitting around the table. Gregory Schande, Kyle Wellington, Jerome Baker, Alexander Walcott, Maurice Blake, Haniff Tulloch, Derron Masters and Kerron Blake, Maurice's little brother.
It was Alexander Walcott aka Wallie's play. He revealed his card and Schande snickered. There was a knock on the door. Zavier said, "Come."
The door opened and all the men looked up except Zavier and Schande. Zavier knew who it was. He was puzzled that Schande wouldn't look up by reflex. Watching carefully, he saw Schande do something strange with his right arm.
Schande was wearing a dark brown long sleeved shirt. Was this bastard cheating? Zavier wondered. He clenched his jaw. He hated losing but more so he hated losing to a thief.
N came and stood behind him. "She's fine," N said. Zavier glanced at him briefly. He nodded. "Did she say anything to you?" he asked looking intently at his cards.
N shook his head. "She was very sleepy. I woke her by mistake. She seems to be fine," he said. Zavier nodded. But Kyle was looking at N curiously. Something seemed to be a little off about him. His voice sounded normal but his body language was betraying him. Zav was too caught up in the game to notice anything. He wouldn't say a word to him, that was his personal business, but Kyle was enjoying himself. He was down $25,000 dollars but he had won one round, while Zavier lost every one so far.
Zavier nodded. "Okay, you can sit beside Masters, until this round is finished," he told N.
N smiled faintly. "Another time," he answered.
Zavier paused and looked up at him. N loved poker. He would always participate at these meetings. "Everything okay?" Zavier asked.
Nesbeth nodded. "Just tired," he said. Zavier observed him closely but in the end decided that nothing seemed to be wrong with his friend. "Okay, see you tomorrow," he said.
N nodded. "Tomorrow. Good night gentlemen," he said.
A few of the men responded.
N left them.
***
The stats were: Schande won seven rounds, Kyle won a round, Baker won two rounds, Wallie none so far, Zavier none so far, the other men won one game each. They decided to take a break to talk 'Shop'.
"The north and south coast tours business has picked up quite well," Schande reported. "We managed to get a few of the independent tour bus operators on our side to work for us part-time or fully. We've also made deals with several of the tour attractions and smaller hotels to take their guests to and from excursions."
Zavier nodded. He was a thief at poker, but he was good for business. "I see the revenues coming in quite steadily from that business. Good job," he told him. Schande smiled.
Zavier looked at Baker. "What do you have to say for yourself?" Baker cleared his throat then said. "On the real estate end, we're doing some renovations on some of the older properties. It's taking a while because the foreman we originally hired is being onerous."
"What does he want?" Schande asked.
"Who is it? Bigga?" Zavier asked.
Jerome Baker nodded. "Yes, him same one. After him beg and plead for me to give him another chance."
"Weh him want?" Zavier asked.
"More money," Baker retorted. "Him seh the amount weh yuh give him is not enough."
Zavier shook his head and chuckled. "That was the amount we agreed on. He told me he was okay with how I would allocate the money to him. I told him 3 million now, then another two after his crew finished the first phase, then the ten million after everything was done," he said feeling his mood grow sullen. "I will get N to talk to him and help him understand in no uncertain terms that I am not to be crossed."
Kyle was curious. "N still does those things for you?" he asked. Zavier turned to him. "N does whatever I ask him to," he replied.
"Does that include spying on your wife?" Kyle asked.
Zavier's eyes bored into him. Was his purpose here to embarrass him. He would not tolerate that. "Danae was not feeling well. I only asked him to check in on her. Nothing major," he answered.
Kyle's smile broke into a mischievous one. "I see," he replied.
"Do you know if it's nothing major to him. As I recall he was Danae's friend first before he started working for you," Kyle countered.
Zavier leaned forward in his chair. "Yes, they were friends. She introduced us. What is your point?"
"Oh nothing," Kyle said smiling deviously, "it's just that with such a beautiful, youthful looking wife, who you leave at odd hours of the night to play cut throat poker, while you allow a handsome white boy with that British accent to monitor her, aren't you afraid something will happen between them?"
Zavier smirked. So this is his ploy: to sew seeds of mistrust in my mind against my colleagues, so he can discredit them and slither into their place. He laughed and shook his head.
"You're funny," he said. He immediately dropped the smile. "Maybe I should have difficulty trusting my wife because as you say she is young and beautiful. But I trust N. And I do trust my wife. So far Danae has not cheated. She has not given me any reason to think she's doing me dirty. But if you know of any indiscretion you're free to say it here."
Kyle did not respond. Zavier chuckled softly then said, "I thought so. You're pathetic! Please, if you have trust issues with your wife don't project that onto my relationship," his tone mocking.
Kyle stood up. "Becca and I are doing quite well. I don't need to have anyone 'checking' up on her," he said angrily. He mimicked the quotes sign with his fingers.
Schande exclaimed cheekily, "Woo hoo hoo!"
Zavier sent eye daggers his way. Schande quieted down but still had the smile on his face.
"How do you know Becca has never cheated on you?" Zavier asked, turning his gaze back to Kyle. He was seething with anger. Kyle was such a trouble maker he should have told him he wasn't allowed to his game.
"Do you know something I don't know?" Kyle asked, his countenance darkened. "Yuh wah tell me something? Weh yuh know 'bout mi wife, Zav? Are you screwing my wife?" Kyle asked his tone angry. His face was a mask of rage. He stood up and looked down at Zav still sitting at the table.
Zavier smiled coldly at his friend and replied, "No, I am not screwing your wife," but I did, was the part he would leave off for now.
"But you want to," Kyle said menacingly. He grabbed his jacket and put it on hurriedly. "You have one more Zav. One more time to disrespect me, and then you will find out why your father called me Midnight!" He opened the door and slammed it shut.
The men left sitting with Zavier were uneasy. Kyle seemed like a jovial, easy going guy, but looks were deceiving. The men looked at each other, they were all uncomfortable with the argument they just witnessed. They were even a little fearful.
There was silence around Zavier. He looked at their brooding faces. All the men were stunned. They had no clue they were sitting with a legend. Zavier had introduced the man that left as just Kyle. But they knew of the name Midnight and the reputation that came with it.
There was a ping on his cellphone. Zavier took it out and read the message that popped into his view:
"For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.
The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.
Your downfall is imminent."
He checked who it was from. The text was from a private number. He exited messages again and went back in. It was indeed from a private number. He exited from the messages and tucked his phone in the right back pocket of his trousers. He would look at that later.
"All good?" Wallie asked. Zavier smiled at him. One thing was certain, he could count of Walcott to ask if his was okay. "Yeah, just spam," he answered. "And as for Kyle aka Midnight, he's just blowing off steam. I'll talk to him and calm him down." He looked at each man's face and smiled confidently at them. Now was not the time to show weakness.
"Wallie your turn to report," he told him. Walcott smiled. "As you know we've added a new snack to our food manufacturing brand and it is doing quite well. The honey glazed, coconut, choco-chip cookies are doing quite well on the market. We've sold a million packets so far, and we've managed to convince one of the top supermarket chains to give us half a shelf in their snack section. We're also convinced that by the end of the month we'll win them over to give us a full shelf then a section for ourselves. The barbecue flavoured banana chips aren't doing so well, but the plain salted ones have picked up in sales."
Zavier nodded. "Good," he said. "Ask the food chemist to come up with a different flavor for the chips. Sell out what we have quickly and get rid of that inventory, and let's start over,"
Wallie nodded. He retrieved a pen and his notepad from his shirt pocket and made note of what Zavier requested.
"Blake brothers, Masters. Tulloch what say you guys?" He turned his body to look at them.
Maurice Blake cleared his throat and spoke up first: "We've been getting a steady flow of weapons from our offshore suppliers, in spite of the air and sea restrictions imposed by the Yankees. We're in a good position,"
"Any other acquisitions?" Zavier asked smiling.
"Yes, some bullet proof vests and night goggles," Kerron added.
"Tulloch?"
"Boss the weed man dem a complain 'bout the police raid them weh a gwaan from weh day," Tulloch said with a grimace. "Dem seh them cyaa get the yield dem up because as the plant dem fi reach a certain size the police raid dem field and scrape up everything and burn it."
Zavier nodded. "Understood. I'll see what I can do. In the meantime tell them to hold off on planting for now. Go into other greens; commercial vegetables: pak choi, callaloo and so on. We can still make a sale from those."
Tulloch nodded. "Will do," he said.
"Masters?"
Derron Masters smiled then said, "Overall revenue is about $20 million this quarter. We managed to break even, but if all goes well we should he able to improve next month. It will be back to school time. I'm anticipating an increase in demand for snacks from our food manufacturing hub. As for the real estate there's usually a spike in persons looking for rental property around the same time. If we can capitalize on that we'll see improvements.
"So more advertising, eh?" Zavier said laughing softly.
Masters chuckled. "It would seem that way," he said
"What's the budget looking like for that? Advertising?" Zavier asked.
"Projections are about 7 or 8 million dollars," Masters told him. "We'll do campaigns via traditional media such as radio, television and newspapers. We'll also include social media campaigns: SEOs, digital marketing, influencer recommendations, etc."
Zavier nodded. He always liked this young man, from the moment he laid eyes on him hanging around his apartment complex in Green acres. He was a smart mouthed kid who knew too much, but he took a gamble on him. He was glad it was paying off.
"Okay," Zavier said. "I'll get N to release the funds to you."
Masters nodded.
Zavier looked around the room. "Okay gentlemen, thank you for a productive evening as usual," he said.
He turned to Gregory Schande. "Greg, I know you've been cheating this whole time," he said. The smile on his face melted away as he stared at him.
Schande chuckled. "What are you talking about?" he asked.
"I'm talking about the fact that you have an extra set of cards in your shirt sleeves, and Baker has been giving you cues all night about what to play."
Baker looked at his boss stunned. "Boss? I-I don't know anything about that!"
Zavier stood up. "Is that so?" He looked over at the Blake Brothers and Tulloch, and gave them a nod. The three men stood up. Maurice and Kerron held on to Schande's arms, while Tulloch grabbed Baker's arms and held them behind his back.
Zavier walked over to Schande and pushed his fingers up his shirt sleeves. He felt something flat and smooth. He pulled it out and saw that it was a poker card.
Zavier looked at Maurice and Kerron. "Make him stand up," he commanded. They dragged Schande to his feet. Zavier popped the shirt open, damaging the buttons. He also ripped the sleeves off Schande's shirt. More cards fell out on the floor.
"You lucky wretch. You'e lucky you're division is doing well otherwise I would kill you. I hate thieves." He looked at Masters and asked, "How much did he win tonight?"
Masters checked the small notepad. "About $180,000," he said.
"We're going to split that evenly amongst ourselves. Our friend here not included," Zavier replied.
Masters stood up. "Okay gentlemen pay up," he said. He removed money from his pockets first, then went around the room to the other men. Zavier gave him his share. Masters counted the money. "$98,000," he said.
The men including Zavier placed their none cash assets on the table. Zavier put up his gold chain and bracelet worth $54,000 in total. "Search his pockets," Zavier demanded looking at Schande.
Maurice and Kerron emptied Schande's pockets and found more cards, $65,000 and a gold watch."
"Nice!" Zavier said. "Masters, you will be in charge of making sure the cash portion hits our bank accounts by the latest 12 noon tomorrow morning. Pawn that gold watch will you, and I'm sure Greg here will make sure the outstanding balance is sent to you to distribute by Friday."
Masters nodded. "Will do." he replied. Zavier clenched his fists and swung hard into Schande's belly, putting his weight behind the punches. Schande groaned and sagged in the Blake brother's hands.
"Let him go," Zavier said straightening up. He felt better now. Schande collapsed to the floor squirming in pain. Zavier used his foot to push him over on his back.
"You better not be stealing from my business, because best believe you will not get a punch to the belly. It will be a bullet to the head," Zavier warned.
"You'll have to help him to his car," Zavier instructed the Blakes. Kerron nodded. Maurice said, "Arite boss."
He walked over to Baker, who Tulloch was still holding steady. "If I catch you helping him or any of these guys here to steal, I will also assume you're a thief and treat you accordingly," he warned. Baker held his head down. "Let him go," Zavier said. Tulloch let him go, gave him a slap to his head and snickered.
Zavier looked at the motley crew of men before him. "Let's get out of here," he told them.
He opened the door and stepped into the bar and lounge area of his club. He looked at his watch. It was 12:30 a.m. Only the bartender was present. "You can lock up now," he told him. The bartender nodded. "Yes boss," he answered. Zavier nodded and exited through the boutique. The men followed close behind them. They exited to the parking lot. The Blake brothers carried Shande to his car. He disarmed it and they opened the door for him and pushed him inside. Kerron slammed the door hard.
They looked over to Zavier who gave them a nod. They nodded back and went to their vehicle. He saw their car lights come on and heard the engine sputter to life. He smiled feeling amused. They needed a new car. Maybe he would gift them one for Christmas. He watched as they drove off.
Zavier opened his car and sat in it. He waited until everyone was gone. Schande was in pain but managed to drive himself home. He waited for the bartender to lock up then called him over and gave him a tip of $5,000 for the inconvenience of waiting on them. He received the dollar note with a broad smile on his face. He left immediately afterwards. Zavier sat in the empty parking lot and retrieved his phone from his back pocket. He went to the mysterious message.
This cellphone was his personal line. Only his very close colleagues and family had this number. Kyle had this number too. He wondered if it was him who sent this cryptic text. He never knew of Kyle being religious, but who knows.
He was puzzled as to who could have sent it. It couldn't be that cop. Nah, he didn't think so. And as much as he disliked that Dixon fellow, and he rubbed him the wrong way, it wasn't him. He didn't have this number.
He tiredly scratched his jaw. He pressed his fingers into his eyes. They felt heavy and tired. He wondered if it was Danae toying with him. He needed to apologize to her for his behavior earlier. He lost over $60,000 personally, but because of Schande's stupidity he got back over $25,000. Not a profit, but he felt better for teaching that snake a lesson.
He turned the key in the ignition of his Ford truck. The engine roared to life. He gently shifted his vehicle from 'park' to 'drive'. He pressed on the gas pedal and listened as the engine purred. The vehicle moved off slowly. Driving up to the entrance/exit of the property, he nodded at the security guard who opened the gate for him. Pressing down on the gas pedal he exited the parking lot and headed home.
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