"You're my girl. I won't let anything happen to you, or the baby if you're pregnant. I won't let your uncle Zav hurt you," he told her. He brushed his hand lightly on her tummy. "I love you," he whispered.
"I love you Nes," she said quietly.
Early Sunday Morning - Jamaica Time
Shane logged into the encrypted app on his phone and scrolled through the messages pertaining to onsite reports made by on and off duty police officers. There was a call recorded from about ten minutes before he left the restaurant.
He played it and heard Corporal Stewart reporting what took place just a few meters away from his location. His heart felt heavy with guilt. If only he knew!
He closed his eyes as he listened to the description of Jordan's injuries. Corporal Stewart made another report to dispatch. Female victim fainted and gun shot victim en route to University Hospital in critical condition.
Shane swore under his breath. He felt nothing. At a time when their strange bond would have been useful to him, he felt nothing. Does that mean my connection with her is severed? Did she have sex with Jordan? He shook his head. That wasn't important right now.
He needed to get to the hospital and see what he could do, but first he needed to go home and take a shower. He drove off feeling in a daze.
***
"Wes, relax and have some fun for once!" Kwame said, slapping his friend on the shoulder. "Today is your birthday and you've just been promoted to Consultant. Just ease off some stress and relax man."
Loud techno music played in the background. Like any typical nightclub there were flashing neon lights and sweaty bodies dropping it low around them. There was a stage before them with half naked women rolling their hips and licking their lips seductively at the patrons.
Dr Wesley Gordon shook his head at his friend, Dr Kwame Wright. "So your idea of fun is to take me to a gentleman's club?" he asked, eyebrows raised. Dr Wright snickered. "When last yuh release some of di oil weh cake up inna yuh back?"
Wesley sucked his teeth, then said, "You of all people know nutt'n nuh guh suh!"
"Oil inna back ... whatever!" he scoffed.
Kwame chuckled softly. "Suh if is a lie why yuh a rail up suh? Yuh too uptight man. You need to let go of some of your stress! Loosen up man!" He leaned on the bar's counter and looked at his friend who was sitting on a stool.
"Look, Wes, mi and yuh ah fren, mi just a try look out fi yuh. Since you and Michelle break up yuh just cold and miserable. Yah mi bredrin--"
Wes signaled for the bartender, who approached. Kwame paused what he was going to say.
"Gimme a beer," Wes said, indicating the brand he wanted. The bartender moved away and retrieved it from the cooler. He pulled off the cap and brought it to Wes with a napkin.
Wes reached for it before the bartender could place it on the counter with the napkin. He nodded at the young man and the bartender looked at Kwame. Kwame cleared his throat. "Give me a 'special'," he said. The young man nodded and went to fetch it. Kwame put a thousand dollar bill on the counter to pay for their drinks.
The fast paced EDM music faded and a bright light appeared and was focused on the main stage.
"Ladies and gentlemen," came a loud booming male voice over very clear speakers, "the event you've all been waiting for, our special and main event! Give it up for Silver!"
The lights around them went completely dark while the bartender placed the cup with Kwame's alcohol laced drink, and napkin on the counter, and took up the money. Wesley noticed, but Kwame was caught up with looking on the stage. The bartender walked away, sat on his own stool and began scrolling on his phone. Apparently, he had seen this act before. Wes grimaced. He wasn't interested either.
Oh hell nah! he thought. He looked up and saw a young woman pleasuring herself on stage.
Nope! He was not staying for that!
He stood to his feet and was walking to the door, when two large men dressed in black suits blocked his exit. "Friend, leaving so early?" the one with the extremely large nose asked. His black beady eyes, bored into him. "You haven't even bought out the bar yet." The other man, who was more light skinned, folded his arms and watched him closely.
"Look, I bought a beer. I'm a doctor I need to leave to get home to get some shut eye. I have to report to work midday." Today was his day off, but they didn't need to know that.
The buzzing of the vibrator intensified and he heard her moaning boisterously. God help him if he didn't kill Kwame when he drove him home later.
The light skinned bouncer grabbed his arms, his face contorted into a wide, garish grin. He spun him around. "But you're missing the good part," he growled.
"I'm good, I'm not interested. I have a wife at home." Another lie. "My friend invited me out, but I need to get home to wifey." He caught a glimpse of his friend--his eyes glued to the stage. Wes sighed. He glanced at her, her eyes were closed. She was naked except for the pink stiletto heels she was wearing.
He couldn't deny that she had a beautiful body--slim but thick where it counted. She sounded really sexy. His eyes raked over her slowly. He noted how she was writhing as she pleasured herself. She glanced his way then closed her eyes. Heat flooded into his loins. He turned his face away from her. "Guys, please, it's really late--"
"She's almost done," the big nose bouncer drawled.
He heard her shallow, airy breaths and was tempted to look. Instead he turned his back and closed his eyes. He swore. "I'm gonna kill Kwams I swear to--"
Her deep guttural moans, struck something primal inside him. He opened his eyes and turned to look at her. He was surprised to see that she was staring in his direction--her eyes were locked on him as her body started to shake. Wes's heart skipped a beat when she smiled at him and blew him a kiss.
"She likes you," the light skinned man said chuckling. He smacked his back. They stepped aside so he could leave. He stalked to the door brushing past a male patron that was still gawking at the stage. Angrily, he stepped out of the building.
Grace lay back feeling satiated, but only because of him. She saw him when she first entered the stage and sat down. He was very good looking, caramel coloured skin, and broad shoulders. He seemed out of place in a sleazy place like this. But she watched him and focused her eyes on him.
She tried to block out the sounds around her. Trying to ignore the hungry eyes, she pretended no one else was there but him and her. She wished he would look at her.
When he finally looked up she lost it. His smoldering stare got to her. Now that she was done he was leaving. He seemed embarrassed, but she wanted to know his name. She retreated hurriedly off the stage amidst roars of applause and catcalls.
"Grace! Grace! Where are you going?" the stage manager asked.
"My destiny is calling," she quipped, brushing past him. She went into the changing room she used, and placed her vibrator in its case. Still wearing stiletto heels, she hurriedly threw on a silk robe and went through the exit for workers.
She rounded the corner to intercept him. She saw him sitting in his car and heard his loud expletives. She smirked. Maybe I rattled him the way he rattled me, she thought. He was on the phone now. She listened.
"Kwame, I'm leaving. If you don't get back to the car in five minutes, I'm leaving you here. No! I am not kidding! I'm in the parking lot waiting for you. Five minutes and I'm gone," he shouted.
Grace approached the car cautiously. Five minutes was all she needed. Of all the men and women that were at the club tonight this stranger was the only one that seemed visibly shaken by what she was doing. She wasn't proud of it, but she wasn't a very good dancer.
She had started as a waitress at Mr Z's night club. She wanted to make extra money, she had a daughter to think of. She told Mr N that she would be willing to do anything to earn extra money. So he put her on as a courier then a decoy, but a few weeks later, after she saw what it entailed, she chickened out and fled to this sleazy bar/gentleman's club.
This was the only one that Z had no influence over because Crab refused to sell, and would not be intimidated. But working there came with a price. She started doing this 'act' over a month ago.
All the patrons saw her as was a sex symbol, some kind of blow up doll. She chose to do it because Crab had been looking for someone to do the kind of thing he heard were happening in some of the adults only resorts. She agreed to perform for double the cut. At first, she would just strip and touch herself, but they wanted more, and more.
She knew she was degrading herself--stripping away any dignity she had left, but she had a plan. She would only do this until she got enough money to take care of her daughter's medical bills then she would leave secretly. Crab was nicer than Z, but could be just as evil.
She was beginning to feel numb to all of it, until she saw this man look at her. She noticed his shy eyes and was intrigued. At first, he seemed shocked at what she was doing, then his eyes showed dismay, then disgust. But when she reached her climax and looked into his eyes, she saw his genuine interest and arousal. She realized that he didn't look at her luridly, but with an open curiousity that made her want to get to know him.
On nights when she performed, which was five times a month, Crab charged his patrons extra. She wondered what a guy like him was doing at a place like this. She approached him cautiously. She wasn't sure what she should say.
"Hey," she said, leaning on his car. He spun his head around, and when he saw her he straightened his shoulders and looked ahead of him. He checked his watch. She knocked on the window of his car. He looked at her warily. She motioned for him to roll down his window. Reluctantly he did so, his eyes showing the storm of his emotions.
"Yes?" he said his tone sharp. She winced internally. "I guess I just wanted to find out why you were leaving so early. I was wondering if you liked the show," she said smiling at him. Why did she suddenly feel nervous.
He cleared his throat. His thick, long lashes fluttered as he looked down. She hadn't noticed in the dim lighting of the club, but he had the strangest shade of brown eyes she'd ever seen. They almost looked gold with dark rims around the irises.
"Why do you do it?" he asked.
"Do what?" she asked. She continued to stare at his eyes--captivated by them.
"That thing on stage," he said. His mouth was dry, his tongue felt heavy. He glanced at her, and noticed that she was only wearing a silk robe, that showed a hint of the curvy body underneath. He averted his eyes. She smirked and chuckled softly.
"So you did like the show," she purred.
He cleared his throat. "I am human, and a man," he said, his voice husky. "It doesn't mean I approve."
He refused to look at her so she crossed her arms over her bosom. "It's okay handsome, you can look at me. I'm covered," she teased.
He quickly glanced at her and turned the key in the ignition. The engine roared to life. She placed her hand on the window, while the other covered her breasts. "Look ... look, don't leave yet. Can you tell me your name?" she asked. Why am I doing this? she wondered.
"Why?" he asked, annoyed that her presence was making his heart rate go up.
"In the month I've been here you're the only person that actually sees me. I mean I could tell you liked what you saw, but you weren't just seeing me for a sex symbol. I guess I was impressed and wanted to find out who you were."
She heard footsteps behind them. She turned to see another man. She did notice him earlier in the crowd. He was gawking at her like all the others. He slowed down his pace as he saw her. He came towards her slowly, his eyes seeming to bulge from their sockets.
"You're Silver!" he said like a fangirl. She rolled her eyes, but smiled at him. She looked at her Mystery Man.
"Why won't you tell me you're name?" she asked, smiling coyly at him. "They call me Silver, but my name is Grace," she told him. He looked at her, but spoke no words. Grace's heart sank. Maybe she was wrong to act so impulsively, but she had to try.
"Mr Mystery Man can I get your name?" she asked, smiling at Wesley.
Perturbed by her totally ignoring him, Kwame walked around to get in her direct line of sight. She turned her body towards the vehicle and ignored him. He hissed his teeth and came closer. "You're ignoring me? I am your biggest fan. I gave them a big tip for you," he said belligerently.
Wes honked his horn. "Kwams, we need to leave now!" he shouted angrily.
"Calm yourself Wes. I'm just talking to this little whore here." Kwame moved closer, and grabbed her wrist. "I left you a big tip!" he snarled.
"Suh what yuh want?!" Grace yelled angrily.
"At least a likkle hello wud be nice!"
"Hi!" Grace answered, through gritted teeth. She tried to yank her hand from him, but he tightened his grip. She yelped in pain.
Wes swore. He shut off the engine and jumped out of the vehicle. He grabbed his friend's hand and pulled it away from Grace.
"Are you drunk?" Wes asked glaring at him. "Have you forgotten who you are and your reputation?"
For a minute, Kwame's temper was as hot as a tea kettle, but as he observed Wes watching him with concern in his eyes, he sighed and relaxed. Wesley released his hand.
"You're right Wes, I'm sorry. I'm embarrassing myself like a whipped puppy, over frowzy front." He shouted that last part. Grace sucked her teeth.
The two men walked back to Wes's vehicle. Ignoring Grace standing there, Wes entered the car and waited for Kwame. Kwame spat at the ground near her feet.
"It shudda ketch mi!" Grace blurted out, seething with anger. Kwame jumped into his friend's SUV and closed the door. The engine revved to life and she stepped back.
Grace watched Wes as his nicely toned, hairy forearms turned the steering of the vehicle, maneuvering it slowly. She stood rooted even as the SUV reversed then moved forward.
"I do it for my daughter," she shouted after them, but the loud hum of the car engine swallowed her words.
Wes looked at her through the rearview mirror. She said something, but he didn't quite hear her. He sighed. It was all for the best that he would never see her again. He couldn't risk his career over a 'woman of the night'.
He had to admit she was a very sexy girl. Not bad looking in the face either. Quite cute. Dark, smooth, chocolate-brown skin, and a firm, curvaceous body. She was any man's fantasy.
Why on earth was she in a place like this?! No! Get it together Wes, you're tripping! He willed his mind to stop thinking about her and pressed his feet down on the gas pedal to increase the car's speed.
***
The blaring, urgent sound of the ambulance's siren was giving him a headache, but it was just a part of the job. He needed to ignore it. Trevor Stone looked at the poor guy laid out on the stretcher, IV drip stuck in his arm and the oxygen mask over his nose and mouth. He hoped the young man would wake up. They hit a bump, the frame of the van rattled, as his colleague Mason raced to get to the University Hospital. He swore. That boy was a really horrible driver.
It was early in the morning, around 4:00 am. Since there weren't a lot of cars on the road at this time, his co-worker could afford to drive like a maniac to get to their destination. He shook his head as the van rattled over another bumpy patch in the road.
They were coming up on a right turn when a another vehicle raced up alongside them. Giovanni 'Gio' Mason wasn't expecting this black car on this road this time of night. He slowed down the vehicle a little expecting the black Toyota sedan to drive past, but instead the vehicle kept pace with the van.
Gio stuck his hand out the window indicating to the driver of the Toyota that he should go around him. But he was being ignored. He slowed down even further to allow him to pass. Trevor Stone tapped from the cabin. "Why yuh slow down?" he asked.
"Some crazy driver ah gwaan like badman or sumn! Mi ah try tell him fi guh pass mi and him still ah drive near mi!" Gio said frustrated.
Bang!
"A weh di blood ...!" Trevor exclaimed. He ducked as he heard the first gun shot. Gio pressed on the gas and the ambulance lurched forward as it picked up speed.
"Hmm ..." Jordan groaned.
Trevor looked down and saw that the young man on the stretcher stirred. He moved to him. "Son, you alright?" he said. "You're in an ambulance, but we're experiencing a few roadblocks." Jordan opened his eyes. Trevor leaned over so Jordan could see him. He patted his shoulder. "You'll be fine."
Another volley of gunshots made Trevor swear even harder. "A weh di bumbo blood claat dem bwoy yah come from?!" He tapped on the cabin and shouted to his colleague. "Tek di short cut," he yelled.
"The short cut?!" Gio asked.
"Yeah, mek we see if dem bwoy yah skill!" Trevor shouted back.
The vehicle swung hard as it turned on Eastwood Park Road. Jordan coughed. Trevor examined his wound. "The wound has stopped bleeding, but we have to get the gunshot out," he told him. He patted his shoulder. "Hang on deh mi friend." He took out his phone and dialed 119 and told them the description of the vehicle that was following them and where they were headed.
***
They were just turning onto Hope Road from Lady Musgrave Road when they nearly collided into a fast moving ambulance. Stunned, Wes managed to guide his vehicle to a screeching halt. He looked up and saw a car tailing close behind the ambulance. He heard a gunshot and his eyes snapped wide open.
What a night! He dialed 119 and reported what he saw and heard. Then he drove after the two vehicles. Kwame looked at him like he was crazy.
"Wes, weh yah do?!" Kwame asked, his voice shaky.
"You have yuh gun, right?" Wes asked as he tried to catch up to the vehicles.
"Yes Wes, I have my gun, and I told you to bring yours, but it wasn't with the expectation that we would actually use them!" he shot back nervously. "Wes, why yuh always have fi play hero? Yuh just call the police. Mek dem deal wid this!"
"Time to put your range practice to good use," Wes said giving his friend a quick glance. "That ambulance is in trouble. A patient could be in there." He pressed down on the gas of his RAV4 and within a minute he was just behind the black sedan.
The occupants of the car were firing at the ambulance. There were a few holes in its back door. The ambulance turned onto Winchester Road with the Toyota sedan in hot pursuit. Wes gripped the steering wheel and made a sharp turn. Kwame cursed an expletive and looked at him, his eyes wide.
"Kwams, it's now or never," Wes shouted.
Wes lifted his feet off the gas and pressed his foot down on the brake pedal. The vehicle skidded to the left. As he eased off the brake slowly, it continued to move though slowing down.
Wes carefully steered the vehicle while it moved along its natural trajectory and managed to turn it down a communal street. He figured at some point the ambulance would have to exit onto Hope Road if they were bringing their patient to the University Hospital. He would try to get there before they did.
"What?!" Kwame shouted. "Weh yah do!?"
"I know what I'm doing," Wes said through gritted teeth. He applied the gas pedal. The vehicle groaned and picked up speed.
"Yuh mean yuh ah try kill we off!" Kwame retorted angrily.
"Shut it!" Wes growled.
"If yuh mek mi dead in this mi will be one angry duppy. I will come back and haunt you, yuh sister, yuh mother and father."
"Kwame, shut up!"
They turned on to the main road, and were now in front of the two vehicles. The ambulance with horns screaming whizzed past them.
Wes surged his car forward into the road blocking off the sedan's pursuit. He removed his gun from the glove compartment, turned off safety and fired at the car's windows and tires. He watched as the vehicle careened off the road and crashed into the perimeter wall of a house.
They heard the low throttling of an engine behind them. The ambulance had doubled back. Wes wondered why. He got out of the vehicle. A middle aged man jumped out of the back.
"Oh thank God!" the senior EMT said. "Mason did seh him recognise yuh! Dr. Gordon thank God it's you! Yuh remember me? Trevor Stone."
Wes exited his vehicle closing the door behind him. Yeah, he remembered Trevor Stone. He smiled at him. "What's the situation inside?" he asked.
"Mi have a gunshot victim, barely holding on to life. We managed to cauterize the bleeding somewhat, but with all the ruckus I don't know how much time he has. The bullet is still in him," Stone said.
Wes moved quickly to the door and climbed inside. The young man's eyes were closed. He looked pale. Wes checked for a pulse. Still there, but very faint. "We need to stabilize him," Wes said. The immediate thing would be to get that bullet out of him. The longer that bullet stayed in, the less chance of him surviving.
He looked around him. Maybe he could borrow someone's veranda to perform a crude operation to remove the bullet. He turned his head and saw a few people were coming out of their houses and apartments, looking curiously at them. One of them was Dr Sebastian Knowles, a renowned surgeon who was now retired. He walked towards the scene cautiously. "You men okay?" he asked.
"Yes, we are, but our gunshot victim isn't," Wes said eyeing him. He knew exactly who he was.
Sebastian stepped forward. "Where is he hit?" he asked.
"Through the back into the abdomen," Tevor said.
Sebastian grimaced.
"Bullet out?" he asked.
Trevor shook his head indicating 'no'.
Dr Knowles had a grave expression on his face. "You'll have to remove the bullet asap. Let me help with that," he said.
"You sure?" Wes asked, watching him. "Hasn't it been a while for you, Dr. Knowles?'
With raised eyebrows, Sebastian stared at him. "And you are?"
"Dr Wesley Gordon," Wes replied.
"I see," Sebatstain chuckled. "And who do you think was your father's Attending?" he asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
Wes looked at him then nodded. "Okay," he relented.
"Bring him to my house. I do my private practice there," Sebastian said. He caught Wes's look. "No, I don't do surgery, but I am still a doctor. I see general patients." He walked ahead of them then paused. "Get on with it!" he said annoyed.
Wes looked over at the crashed car. People were moving towards it. He called 119 and told them where the car was. For now, the men inside were unconscious.
"Don't help them," he shouted to a man who was going too close to the vehicle. "They're criminals. They were shooting at this ambulance. Don't help them and don't go near them."
The man came back towards their way. "One of them looks dead," he shouted. "The others aren't moving either, but I see head wounds."
Wes nodded. "Good," he said.
"Anything I can do to help?" the man asked, as he observed Mason and Stone carefully move Jordan across the road towards the well manicured lawn of his neighbour's yard. They entered the house and Wes slapped the man on the shoulder. "Make sure no one goes near that car," he said.
"I have a licensed gun," the man said.
Wes smiled at him. He nodded. "Well you can stand guard until the police get here."
The man nodded, smiling. "Will do," he said.
Wes nodded. He looked at Kwame who was still sitting in the car. He glared at him. Kwame swore then got out of the vehicle and slammed the door shut. Wes armed his vehicle and approached Dr Knowles's house.
"I don't like you right now," Kwame muttered, walking closely behind his friend.
"The feeling is mutual," Wes shot back. He gave him a side eye. "We'll talk about that debacle you made me endure earlier at the club, but for now we have a job to do. And please ... please, don't slam my car door!" He walked ahead, leaving Kwame fuming.
Kwame took a deep breath. It made no sense he allowed his annoyance to get the better of him. There was a person's life at stake. He followed his friend, passed the veranda into a well lit living room, into the kitchen, towards a white door at the back of the house. The door opened into a state of the art private doctor's office.
Dr Knowles looked up and grinned when he saw Kwame's expression. "You a doctor too?" he asked, sardonically.
Dr Wright nodded as he looked around him. Dr Knowles nodded. "Good, let's get started," he said.
***
As he drove, he heard the report come in from dispatch of a black car chasing an ambulance with a gunshot victim inside. He called Dana. She answered the call.
"Hey baby," she greeted him. Her voice was thick with sleep.
"Hey babe," he answered. "I'm gonna do something and I need you to trust me."
"What will you do?" she asked, her voice suddenly turning sharp.
He took a deep breath. He didn't want to be on her wrong side but ... "Lissa's in trouble, and her bodyguard is injured. I'm gonna go to the hospital to see her and find out what happened."
He heard Dana sigh. "That's okay, go see her. I trust you." She blew him kisses. Shane breathed out a quiet sigh of relief. "Thank you baby. I love you."
"I love you too baby," she said.
He blew her several sloppy kisses and listened to her giggle. "Later Sweetness," he teased.
"Later."
He ended the call.
Once home, he took a quick shower and scrolled through the messages via the encrypted app. Information was coming in in real time. He stood up and got dressed in fresh civilian clothing. Thankfully, he had a late shift at 1 o'clock. He could spend some time cheering Lissa up and finding out what happened.
He glanced at his phone again. His mouth opened in a broad smile. Jordan was going to be okay. He was genuinely happy to hear that. He was glad he had some good news to tell her. But then he saw another alert come in. Oh no! He grabbed his car keys and rushed out the door.
***
Seychelles Time - Sunday Afternoon
Mael had been sleeping for two hours when his cellphone rang.
"Hello?" his deep, raspy voice rumbled across the line.
"Detective Durand, this is Sergeant Allard. I have some bad news."
Mael sat up slowly. "Go ahead, Sergeant," he said. He used his fingers to rub his eyes. He was trying to get a little shut eye so he could be somewhat fresh for his rendezvous with Danae. He yawned quietly.
"Sergeant Allard?" he queried.
"Detective, the man you arrested, but later signed for his release ... he boarded a plane an hour ago," Sergeant Allard said.
"What?!" Mael rubbed his eyes more vigorously. He stood to his feet and went into the bathroom. He put the phone on handsfree and placed it on top of the laundry basket.
Within twenty minutes he was in the Mont Fleuri district and turning into the Victoria Hospital. He parked his car, exited the vehicle and armed it. He walked into the building and greeted the nurse on duty. He told her why he was there and she made a note in a log book. She nodded towards the elevator and he smiled and thanked her.
Mael brushed his fingers through his hair, his left eyebrow lifted above the other. Avril grinned at him, noting his reaction.
He glanced at his watch. "It's now three minutes past one in the afternoon," he told her. He brushed his hand on her hair. He was tempted to touch her face, but he didn't want her to feel uncomfortable with him.
"How are you feeling?" he asked. He leaned in closer to look into her eyes.
She smiled at him. "Much better," she said. "I thought you would be here earlier."
"I know," he said, "but after the tour I had planned there was a last minute booking, so I had to deal with that. When I went home I said I would take a nap. The nap turned into two hours. Forgive me?"
She nodded. "Forgiven," she replied. Her eyes brightened. He wished he could kiss her.
She reached for his hand and squeezed it. "Everything okay?" she asked, laughing softly. "You look like the dog ate your homework."
He chuckled at her words. "I wish," he said. He pulled his chair closer.
"Firstly, you are so beautiful," he told her. His gaze softened as he looked at her. Danae bent her head, a coy smile forming on her lips.
"Yuh mouth too sweet," she replied, chuckling under her breath.
"Uh?"
She giggled. "I was saying you're sweet mouthed. Meaning you're full of compliments."
He smiled broadly at her. "Oh, okay. It's true though. Everything I say to you I mean. I think you're very beautiful."
Which is why telling you this hurts me, he mused.
"I need to ask you something, but I want you to know that if you need to talk, or need me for anything else while you're here on Mahe, I am more than willing to be here for you."
She was puzzled at his statement but still smiled at him. She couldn't deny she liked him, but she was still a married woman. "Okay," she said, nodding.
Mael straightened his back. "At around 11 a.m. this morning, your husband boarded a plane with one of your sons. The police contacted the airline and found out he's heading back to Jamaica. I want to know if you knew about this?"
Danae stared at him. She couldn't believe what he was saying. "What do you mean he boarded a plane?" she asked, her voice on edge. She sat up this time despite his disapproving stare.
Mael took a deep breath and sighed. "I didn't want to believe it either, but my colleague called and informed me. He got the info directly from the airline your husband booked. Your husband and one of your sons left around 11 today." He watched her brow lines creasing and wished he could hold her.
"You didn't know?" he asked.
"No," she answered, shaking her head. "There must be a mix-up or something. Maybe your colleague got faulty information."
"No, it's accurate," he said, staring at her ruefully.
"I don't believe you," she said sharply. Panic rose in her chest. No! That can't be true. Zavier would never leave me here! she thought, her heart beating fast.
She took up her phone and dialed her husband's number, but the phone said he was out of range. "No," she muttered. She dialed his number again. No answer, the call went straight to voicemail.
She called Zaniv. The phone rang and rang, but no one answered. She called Zahir, but she was directed to voicemail. Her hand trembled as she dialed her older son's number again. This time Zaniv answered after the fourth ring.
"Mommy, what's wrong?" he said his voice gruff with sleep.
"Baby, I'm so sorry," she answered feeling relieved. "I didn't mean to wake you. I just heard something about your father from Detective Durand, and I was calling to find out if it was true. But you're still here ... you and your father and brother are still in Mahe, right?" She gave Mael a sarcastic look. He looked back at her feeling sorry for her.
Danae heard movement in Zaniv's background. "Mommy, there's something you should know ..."
Danae's heart sank.
"Dad and Zahir left earlier around 11/11:10--"
"No!" Danae shouted. Her body shook, her voice trembled. "No, baby, don't say that. Don't! Zanza, that is not funny!
Zaniv closed his eyes. He knew that anytime his mother called him that she was feeling emotional. "Mommy, I was coming to tell you, but I was waiting until the hospital was opened to visitors around 2 o'clock."
"How could he leave me here and take Zahir? I can't believe he would leave and force your little brother to--"
"Mommy," Zaniv began. He didn't want to, but he had to burst her delusional bubble. "Zahir chose to go with dad. I chose to stay."
"What are you saying?" she asked. Her voice broke as tears flooded her eyes.
"Dad asked both of us to go. Zahir decided to go with dad, but I told them I would stay to make sure you are okay. I couldn't leave you here by yourself."
"I'm sorry mommy, but--"
Danae felt weak. The phone slipped out of her hand, fell on her lap, and slipped onto the bed. How could he do this to me?! She turned to Mael. "He left me and took Zahir," she said. Her eyes stared blankly at him.
Mael picked up the phone and put it to his ear. "Zaniv, this is Detective Durand. I'm here with your mom. She ..." He looked at Danae who was now looking before her in a dazed state. "If you can make it in the next 30 minutes or so I can ask the management to let you see her earlier."
"Yes, of course. I'll be there."
"By about 1:40, okay?" Mael said.
"Yes, I'll be there," Zaniv responded then hung up.
Mael touched her hand. Danae turned her head to look at him. Her eyes were dull. "I'm truly sorry," he said. It struck him that the light he saw in them earlier was now gone. His chest tightened with anger. She closed her eyes and sank into the bed.
***
Jamaica Time - Sunday Morning
"Ohh Nes! I love you!"
Izzie lay tiredly across Nesbeth's chest. Who knew a man in his forties could be so viral. He had taken her three times from last night into the early morning! Speaking of viral, she missed her period.
Not that she was panicking, she was well aware that having sex without a condom could get her pregnant. She adjusted her body on his chest so he could circle his arms around her. Reading her cues, he did just that. He kissed her forehead. She almost purred from the tender kisses he was placing on her face. She closed her eyes.
"Nes, I'm so glad I never gave up on us. You're really sweet to me. Thank you for being gentle when I need it, but rough when I want it," she said. A cheeky smile curled up her lips. Nesbeth looked at her face, at the smile, and chuckled softly. He squeezed her then released his hold on her slightly.
"Maybe I should say thank you too," he said. He moved his right hand down to cup and squeeze her naked bottom. "Hmm ..." he groaned. He moved her from on top of him and gently laid her on the bed.
"Izzie, you make me feel alive. It's like there was something dead inside me, and you came along and brought me back to life." He touched her face. "I will forever be grateful for that."
"Grateful enough to plan a family with me?" she asked, her countenance becoming more sober. He looked at her face, his eyes observing every detail. The smile on his face vanished.
"What are you saying?" he asked. He continued to stroke her face. Izzie took a deep breath and sighed.
"Nes, I'm sorry. I'm willing to bear any consequence. It's my fault. I was the one who insisted ..." Her voice was shaky. Nesbeth was puzzled by her words and behaviour, she was always a very confident girl.
"All I ask is that you not be angry with me," she said, her eyes large.
He leaned forward and tenderly kissed her lips. When he moved back a tear rolled down her face. He was very concerned now. "Izzie, what's wrong? You can tell me. Have you found a younger man you want to be with? I figured this day would come, but--"
"Nes, I may be pregnant," she blurted out.
"What?" His brow knotted.
Isabel sat up and was moving to the edge of the bed. Nes reached out and pulled her back. He held her arms and rolled her onto her back. He came over her. Looking at her from above, he had to appreciate her sweet, innocent beauty. She closed her eyes, her body tense.
"Nes, I love you. I don't know if I am pregnant, but I missed my period. If I am, I won't get rid of it, even if you don't want it. I'll find a way to protect him or her. Please don't be angry," she said.
Nesbeth's eyes softened as he looked at her. He kissed her brow and touched her face. "Izzie, look at me, baby," he said softly. Isabel shook her head, tears still streaming down her face.
"Izzie, baby, look at me," he coaxed gently. She opened her eyes to look at him. He touched her tummy and caressed it. "You missed your period?" he asked. She nodded. Could it really be true? he wondered.
"Baby, I've always wanted kids," he said softly, his voice measured. "I know we're taking a big risk. I would have wanted you to be pregnant in a more secure situation, but I love you. I want this baby too." He leaned forward and kissed her lips. He eased back. "We need to know for certain, okay?" he said.
Izzie nodded. "Okay," she replied.
She reached up to hold him and he pulled her into his embrace, and made her sit in his lap. He put his arms around her waist, crushing her bare breasts to his muscular chest. Izzie groaned and leaned back. Her body and will were already surrendered to him.
Nes lifted her face to his with his thumb and index finger. He looked into her eyes for a brief minute then crashed his lips into hers, kissing her passionately.
"Sit on me baby," he said. She straddled him, her face resting on his neck. He gently put her away from him so he could see her eyes. Nes touched her face.
"You're my girl. I won't let anything happen to you, or the baby if you're pregnant. I won't let your uncle Zav hurt you," he told her. He brushed his hand lightly on her tummy. "I love you," he whispered.
"I love you Nes," she said quietly. She leaned forward to kiss him and he reciprocated.
***
Ryan paced the hospital floor. He had dropped Jordan's sister off at the apartment. She said she would bring fresh clothes for Lissa later that day. His hands were cramped from adrenaline and the exhaustion that crashed in afterwards. He hadn't slept yet.
He had to carry an unconscious Lissa into the hospital yelling like a mad man. Fortunately, a nurse came forward and asked him to carry her to a treatment room to lay her down.
Lissa was much thinner than he remembered her. She looked pale and fragile. She still had those sexy curves, but he was surprised at how much weight she had lost. This whole situation of losing her babies, her life being threatened, and her on the run had taken its toll.
"Sir?"
He looked up. A female doctor in a bright, white lab coat came forward. "The young lady you brought in is awake, but we had to sedate her somewhat. She kept on calling two names," the doctor said.
"Two names?" he asked, experiencing a feeling of foreboding.
The doctor nodded. "Yes," she said nodding. "She asked for a Ryan and ... uh, Jordie? I think it was Jordie she was saying."
Ryan's lips curved up into a faint smile. "Ryan is my first name," he said.
As he followed her, he looked at the other staff members: some nurses and clerical staff were inputting information on the hospital's computer system, while doctors moved to and fro in a perpetual hurry.
He cleared his throat. "Uh ... doctor, I don't even know your name," he said. The young woman chuckled softly. "Dr. Barnes, my apologies. I've been here since last night," she replied.
"Since last night?" he asked eyebrows raised. "You must be tired?"
She looked back at him and smiled. "I definitely am," she said.
"Uh ... there was a case that came in before I got here--a young man in his thirties with a gunshot wound in his back, but the bullet pierced through his abdomen. I was on the scene and called the ambulance. Can you tell me what's his condition now?"
She stopped and turned to look at him. "Thirties you say?" she asked for confirmation.
Ryan nodded.
She lowered her head. "Yes, I believe I heard of that case." She looked up at him, her eyes troubled. "I'm very sorry ... I-I'm afraid he, um ... he didn't make it," she said. Ryan looked at her in shock.
He shook his head as he stared at her. He couldn't believe his friend was dead. His wounds were serious but he just couldn't believe it!
Dr Barnes, observing his body language, touched his arm. They were walking towards some chairs and benches in the waiting area of the ward Lissa was placed. She guided him to one of the benches. "Take a seat and lean back," she said, and sat down with him.. "I'll get you some water, okay?"
Ryan nodded. Dr. Barnes looked at him observing the irises of his eyes, and the way he was breathing. She took his left hand and gently put pressure on his wrist to check his pulse. "Try to breathe in slowly and deeply," she instructed calmly. He stared at her, his eyes showing the turmoil inside him. She smiled reassuringly at him and he closed his eyes.
The bench vibrated underneath them. "I'm sorry," she said, looking down at her lab coat. She pushed her right hand into a pocket and pulled out her cellphone.
"Heliyo," she answered. She listened. "Okay mommy," she said. She looked over at Ryan whose eyes were still closed. She chuckled at something her mother said. "Yes mumz, I'll try to be early for dinner. All being well I should be home by 5 o'clock. No, I should get the day off tomorrow as is standard procedure, but I'm going to let my Attending know. Mhm ... mommy."
Dr Barnes laughed softly. "Mommy, I have to go!" she said humor filling her tone. She looked over at Ryan. "I have a case to attend to. What? What do you need to know that for?"
She shuffled on the bench turning her body slightly away from Ryan. She sighed in exasperation. "If I tell you will you get off the phone?" She laughed. "Okay ... okay. My patient before me now is a male. A police officer at that."
Ryan's eyes snapped open. He paid keen attention to what she was saying. He noted that her voice dipped lower. "Yes mommy, he's good looking. Mhm, handsome. Satisfied now? I don't know about that! Mommy, I love you. I gotta go. See you later ... byyeeee!" She hung up and took a deep breath. She put her phone in her pocket and turned to Ryan smiling apologetically. "I am so sorry, um ... my mom, you know how mom's are."
Ryan smiled but did not speak. Yes, he remembered how his mom was. She always wanted to know when he would meet someone.
He crossed his arms and flexed his shoulders to get comfortable. Dr Barnes froze as she stared at him. He wondered what she was thinking. She stood to her feet. "Let me get you some water," she said stuttering. She walked away and he watched her movements. She seemed fairly young, but appeared capable. He closed his eyes.
When she returned she brought bottled water and a sandwich. He sat up and looked at her, a question in his gaze. She smiled at him awkwardly. "I hope you don't mind," she said smiling. "I figured you'd be hungry." She looked at her watch. "You've been here since last night, you probably haven't eaten anything yet."
He was surprised at her kindness. He smiled at her. "The canteen is open at this hour?" he asked eyebrows raised.
She shook her head. "Actually it's part of my dinner. Well ... was supposed to be part of my dinner, but I never got the chance to eat it. I decided to leave it for breakfast. It's still good, I swear."
Watching her carefully he uncrossed his arms. "That's very kind of you, but I can't just take your breakfast." He was amused by how her eyebrows drew closer together while she listened to what he was saying. Although he still felt the hollowing pain in his chest, interacting with Dr Barnes was a pleasant experience.
She sat down beside him and gestured for him to take the water and the sandwich. "Look ... you just heard some bad news about someone you know--"
"He was my best friend," Ryan interjected.
"I-I'm sorry." Her gaze faltered. She stared at the floor. "If you don't want the sandwich, I guess ..."
He reached out and took the sandwich from her hand first, then the bottled water. She looked up at him smiling. He opened the bottle and took a sip, observing how she looked at him. He smiled at her. "Thank you," he said. She nodded her head a tiny smile on her lips. "You're welcome," she said.
"May I know your name?" He put the cap on the bottle and placed it upright on the floor.
"Dr Jhonie Barnes," she answered. Her hands gently folded the hem of the lab coat she was wearing. She smiled at him. He pulled the cling wrap off the sandwich and bit into it.
"I hope you like mayo?" she said, her eyebrows lifted.
He chuckled. "What would you have done if I didn't?"
She grinned at him. "Probably buy you a sandwich, but ask what you like first."
"Johnnie? Your name?"
"Jhonie," she replied laughing a little. "J-h-o-n-i-e." She spelt it for him.
He nodded. "Okay," he said smiling. "Thank you for the hospitality Jhonie, Dr. Barnes. Much appreciated." He bit into the chicken sandwich, and smiled at her as he chewed. This is really good!
"You made this?"
"Oh no," she said shaking her head. "From the canteen, but I can though."
He chuckled softly and continued eating.
Her fingers clasped the edge of her lab coat as she watched him. He noticed that little quirk and wondered if she found him attractive. He finished the sandwich and opened the bottled water. He finished it in two large gulps, and she chuckled. He closed the empty bottle. She reached for it.
His right eyebrow rose above the other as he looked at her. "Another kind gesture from Dr Jhonie Barnes?" he asked teasing.
She chuckled. "Yup," she said, "I can throw it away on my way back to finish my rounds. It's not a problem." He smiled broadly at her, feeling more relaxed in her presence. She blinked, her eyes fluttering to look at the floor. Ryan was amused by her reaction to him.
He extended his hand to give her the used cling wrap and bottle. She took them while not looking at him, opened the bottle and stuffed the cling wrap inside. She closed it then stood up. Tucking the bottle in her lab coat's left pocket, she took a step forward. "This way," she said, but made no move to make eye contact with him. Ryan followed her, perplexed at her behaviour.
Dr. Barnes opened the door and quietly stepped into the hospital room. It appeared that Lissa was asleep, but when Dr Barnes quietly called her name, she opened her eyes.
The forlorn expression she wore transformed into something more hopeful when she saw Ryan entering the room. He smiled at her. She tried to sit up and Dr Barnes rushed to her side. "Easy .. easy, you're still groggy from the meds," she said. Lissa smiled at her. "I'm sorry, just wanted to talk to ... uh, Corporal Stewart," she replied.
Ryan stepped forward. He took her hand and squeezed. She turned her body to look at him. He glanced behind him, and pulled a chair towards her bed while he still held her hand. He sat down and smiled at her. Lissa looked at him expectantly.
"Have you gotten to see Jordie? How is he doing?" Lissa asked, her face bright. Ryan looked at her, then looked up at Dr Barnes. The reality still hadn't hit him.
"No, I haven't, but I will check after I leave here," he said. Dr Barnes moved closer to her bed.
"These men came out of nowhere and attacked us," Lissa said bitterness in her voice. "There were three of them so Aurora--Jordie's sister said." She looked up at Dr Bares who nodded at her reassuringly. "I only saw two."
"All three are dead," Ryan told her.
Relief spread across Lissa's face. She sat up on the bed. "Good. Will you find out who is responsible?" she asked.
Ryan nodded and squeezed her hand. "We have officers doing a sweep of the area for any evidence left behind and we were able to retrieve a phone from one of the bodies. We'll get answers soon."
Lissa looked up at Dr Barnes. "Doctor, I need to speak with Corporal Stewart privately, please."
Ryan looked up at Dr Barnes, keenly watching her body language. Her shoulders slumped slightly, but she nodded with a bright smile. "Sure," Dr Barnes said. As she turned to leave Ryan smiled at her and said, "Thank you." She smiled politely at him and just like that the little bit of warmth he felt from her was locked away. He was a little disappointed. He watched her leave the room.
Lissa observed how Ryan watched her doctor. She cleared her throat. He looked at her. "I know we ended on a very sour note. I just wanted to say I'm very sorry about everything. You have been a friend to me, and you didn't deserve my confusion in your life. I am very sorry," she said quietly.
He covered her hand with both of his. "I've forgiven you," he said. "I took the risk. When we started you told me in various ways that you weren't ready, but I ignored what you tried to tell me. I am to blame partially."
"I am sorry though ..."
He nodded. "Me too." He squeezed her hand.
He looked at the floor then at her. "Are you seeing Jordan now? Are you two dating?" he asked.
Lissa nodded. "Yes, we're seeing each other." She felt awkward. She cast her gaze to the floor.
He saw her reaction and moved closer. "I'm not mad," he told her. "Jordie is a good guy--" He hoped to God the doctor was wrong.
"So are you," she said, Her eyes were getting watery.
"Do you love him?"
Lissa smiled and nodded. "Yes, very much."
Ryan nodded. "Okay, I'm happy for you both."
A tear slid down her cheek. He wiped it away for her.
"Lissa, it's okay. As I said I'm not mad at you. If anything this experience has reminded me that I need to take the time to get to know someone before I rush in." He leaned forward and touched her face. "I miss what we were and what we could have been, but I'm better for it."
"You sure?"
He chuckled. "Yes, I'm sure." He leaned forward and kissed her brow. She smelt his cologne and it brought back the memory of the night they were intimate. She sighed. "I hope you find someone worthy of you," she said softly. He smiled at her. "I hope so too," he answered. He reached over and hugged her. She relaxed in his embrace.
"Thank you."
He rubbed her back. "You're welcome."
***
As Ryan stepped out of the hospital room, he saw Dr Barnes standing nearby. He walked slowly towards her, a smile fixed on his face. She looked up, saw his smile and fidgeted with the hem of her lab coat. He stood before her.
"Thank you for breakfast," he said, his tone friendly. He put his hand out for a handshake. "My name is Corporal Ryan Samuel Stewart."
She shook his hand. "Dr Jhonie Sara Barnes," she said smiling.
There it is, he thought. That spark! "You have a pretty smile," he told her.
"Thank you," she said, standing straighter. She brushed her hand on her hair though every strand was neatly in place in a ponytail. He thought she was cute.
"I would like to return the favor. Maybe breakfast or lunch at another time?" he asked.
She nodded. "Yeh ... yes, sure ...yes, that would be great." She scribbled her phone number on a notepad she had in her hand, tore off a piece of the paper and handed it to him. He noticed the slight tremor of her hand as he took the paper. Am I making her nervous? He moved closer to her and she swallowed. She looked tense.
So I am making her nervous. He was intrigued. He stepped back and pocketed her number. He smiled at her. "I'll call you, promise," he said. He gave her a charming smile and stepped back further. She relaxed.
"By the way, I need you to be absolutely sure about what you said. Jordan is my best friend. Can you check the morgue to make sure?"
Dr Barnes looked at him, her eyes assessing him. "Okay," she said, "come with me."
She brought him into an office and closed the door. She sat at the desk and dialed a number, putting it on loud speaker so they both could hear. "I'm calling the hospital morgue," she told him. He came closer, resting his hands on the edge of the table. She looked up at him then hurriedly stared at the phone.
A tiny smile quirked up his lips. She was adorable. He wondered if she had a boyfriend. He hoped she was a believer like him.
"Hello, hospital morgue, good day," a young man answered.
"Hi, good morning. Is this Calvin?"
"This is he," the young man said.
"Good. Calvin, it's Jhonie--"
"Hey Jhonie, have you thought about my offer?" Calvin asked, his voice filled with enthusiasm.
Dr Barnes chuckled. "If you do me this favor I may consider it," she said.
Ryan felt a pang jealousy in his chest. His hands tightened around the table's edge he was holding. He watched her, his jaw clenched.
"Okay, how can I help?" Calvin said beaming. Ryan almost scoffed. That guy sounded too happy.
"I need you to check your records for ..." Dr Barnes looked up at Ryan. "Name?" she whispered.
"Jordan Marx," Ryan spoke clearly so Calvin could pick up his voice.
"Give me a sec," Calvin replied politely.
They heard the tapping of a keyboard. "Nope, no such name. Sorry."
Ryan's lips twisted into a scowl. "And you're sure you checked thoroughly?" he asked.
"Jhonie, who is that?" Calvin asked.
"Corporal Ryan Stewart, JCF," Ryan said tersely. Jhonie shifted in her chair.
"Oh, okay. Well Corporal, sorry, no such name on record." Calvin replied coolly.
Jhonie sighed. "Maybe a physical description would help," she said. She could see that Ryan was irritated.
Ryan agreed. "Yes, okay." He cleared his throat. "He's about 6'4". Light skinned with broad shoulders. He has tattoos on his arms and across his chest." He thought of something that would distinguish his friend from another body. "Oh, he has a tattoo that says 'Prince of Peace' on his right pectoral muscle," he said with a smile.
He heard shuffling. "I'll have to check the cold storage. Give me about ten minutes. There are twenty bodies in there."
"Thank you Calvin," Jhonie said. "I'll call back then."
Calvin grunted his response. "Soon be back."
After eight minutes had passed the phone rang. Jhonie looked at the caller ID. The extension call was from the morgue. She answered. "Hi, Calvin," she said.
The young man cleared his throat. "Is your police friend there?"
"Yes I am," Ryan answered.
"There's no body here with the tattoo you mentioned. But a colleague of mine just told me that there was an ambulance en route with a gunshot victim fitting your description, but they were intercepted by some thugs. Also, you should know this, my cousin is a police officer just like you. She said it's all over the police communications network."
Ryan's eyebrows shot up. He hadn't even thought of logging in. "Did she say anything else?"
"Yeah, that three doctors saved his life. That's all she knows," Calvin said.
"Thank you very much for this info," Ryan said. His throat was constricting just a little. Swallowing the saliva in his mouth, he took a breath and stood to his full height. Jhonie watched him. He looked at her.
"Thank you for this," he said softly.
Jhonie smiled at him, nodding. "You're welcome."
He grunted, "Hmm ...", and walked to the door.
"Um ..." Jhonie mumbled, balling her hands into fists.
He stopped and looked back at her.
"Do you still want to go for breakfast or lunch?" she asked averting her eyes.
"Jhonie," he called her name softly. There was a shyness about her that was pulling him in.
She dropped her gaze to look at him.
"What day and tell me the time?" he asked, his tone gentle.
"Friday? Lunch?" she replied. She opened her hands and laid them flat on her lap. Taking a quick breath, she exhaled, opening her mouth.
"What time is lunch for you?" he asked, smiling at her.
"Usually at 1 o'clock." She clasped her hands together, but he noticed they were shaking.
"Perfect," he said. "See you then. I'll call you." He definitely would.
She nodded. "Okay," she said.
"Okay." He softened his gaze as he looked at her, then opened the door and stepped out.
Jhonie leaned into the chair and took a deep breath. She exhaled slowly. God, he's so handsome! She laughed at herself, then opened a file on her desktop computer.
He was just about to tell Lissa the good news when he heard voices in her room. He listened carefully. It was Shane. He would go inside, but he needed to see something first.
***
Shane hugged her, and Lissa did not pull away. He cupped her face. "How are you?" he asked. "I came as soon as I heard," he said. Lissa smiled at him. "Thank you. It's good to see you," she said.
"He's lost a lot of blood though," Shane said.
"What ward is he on? I'll go see him," she said trying to stand on her feet. Shane placed his hand on her thigh to stop her. She paused and looked at his hand, then his face.
"What is it?" she asked.
"He's suffered some internal damage," he told her.
"How do you know this?" she asked, her heart thudding hard against her ribcage.
"The police who arrested the men in the vehicle ... Well, one of the perps died, but the other three were unconscious when the police got there. One of the three woke up and the police questioned him." He bowed his head.
Ryan listened, his own heart beating erratically.
Shane rubbed his right hand over his beard. "Lissa, Jordan suffered some damage to his liver. The bullet cracked a few ribs. There was some internal bleeding, but they managed to stop it. But, Lissa, he may never be the same again."
"He may need a liver transplant, if his body isn't able to heal itself. He may be on meds for the rest of his life."
"Where is he now?" she demanded, standing to her feet. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears.
"A private hospital. The police figured the guys that chased the ambulance are friends of the men who attacked you guys last night."
Ryan opened the door and stepped in. Shane looked around at him. Lissa stared at him. "Did you know this?" she asked. Ryan shook his head. "No, I didn't," he answered. "I was coming to tell you that he was okay, but Shane has already told you."
"I want to see him," she said, her voice cracking.
"I know," Shane said, "but his safety is very important. We have to keep his location secret. There may be a tail on you. If they follow you to where Jordan is they will surely finish the job they started."
Ryan flexed his shoulders and stepped forward. With his head bent his spoke, "He's right." He lifted his head and looked out the window.
"Jordan is in no position to protect himself, or you right now," he continued. "So I'll do it for him."
Shane stood up. "Wait ..."
Ryan looked at Shane. His dark eyes gazed at him coldly. "You can't," he replied, his voice tight. "You have an engagement dinner to plan. Remember?"
Shane stared at him. His eyes widened just a fraction then he composed himself. Ryan noticed the tiny, imperceptible change and smiled at him. "I heard it through the grape vine. Congrats," he said.
Lissa turned to Shane. "Is this true?" she asked.
Shane nodded. "Yes, it's true," he said. He shoved his hands in his pockets. He was going to tell her, but at a later time when the engagement dinner had already passed. He wondered how Ryan found out. With consternation building in his gut he hoped Dana didn't already know.
The only persons he told besides his brother were Supe Dacres and Constable Walker. Tension caused his chest to tighten and his shoulders to drop. He saw Ryan's visible disdain towards him, and directed his gaze out the window.
Must be Sudanie who blabbed, he surmised. Out of the corner of his eyes he saw Lissa moving, he turned to her. Her movements were shaky. He moved closer to her, but didn't touch her.
Lissa's legs felt heavy. She took a ragged breath. He told you he was going to get engaged, girl. What's wrong with you? You already knew this would happen, Lissa chided herself. You love Jordan, remember?
Despite her internal pep talk her body still betrayed her. Taking careful steps towards the edge of the bed she sat down. "I'm happy for you," she said, staring at the plain, white walls.
Shane cleared his throat. "Thank you," he said. He looked at Ryan, his eyes narrowing. A crooked smile formed on Ryan's lips. Shane turned his gaze away from him.
"So it's settled," Ryan said. "I will stay with you. I haven't informed my superiors, but I think they will be willing to allow me to if my hunch is right."
"What's your hunch?" Shane asked, his eyes boring into him.
"Thugs came after them last night, then went after Jordan again this morning. Obviously this is not random. I'm gonna make a phone call and if what I think is right, I say we'll have to move fast."
Shane crossed his arms over his chest. "Okay, go make your call, I'll be here."
"Isn't your engagement dinner supposed to be tonight?" Ryan asked, his tone mocking.
Shane uncrossed his arms. His hands curled into fists. Ryan stared at them and grinned. "I'll be right back," he said, and stepped outside. He heard Lissa make a sharp remark to Shane and chuckled softly. He wouldn't allow that guy to pull Lissa in again. He would ensure she stayed loyal to his friend.
The phone rang twice before Lamar answered, his voice almost a whisper. "Uncle, mi was expecting yuh call anytime soon. Mi have some news. Something big a gwaan, uncle. Before mi tell yuh have to promise me something."
"Okay," Ryan said smiling. "What do you need?"
"Mi need me and mi family to move to a safe place. Cause after me tell yuh this mi is a dead man."
Ryan's brow furrowed. Lamar and his family could stay at his grandmother's old house for now. "Okay, I'll help you. Tell me what's happening."
"The don fi mi area, Bull Dog, him change allegiance. Him and the man dem seh dem nuh wah work wid this man name Mr Z again ..."
***
Lequan sat in his car and watched Z's house. Mr Z called and told him he was somewhere in Europe, calling from a hotel room. Z told him he would be there by latest tomorrow morning or afternoon, but if they get an immediate connection they would be in Jamaica late tonight.
Lequan told his boss that he still wasn't getting a clear signal from the spy devices the crew planted in his house. Z told him not to worry, when he got back he would deal with N and his niece personally. In the meantime, he asked Lequan to watch the house, follow them and take note of their activities.
He also warned him not to attempt to enter his house. Lequan said he wouldn't. He would never dream of crossing Z. While he stared at the house he thought of Izzie. He'd imagined her so many times naked on his bed, crying out his name. His real name. If she became his girl he would tell her. He wouldn't hide anything from her.
The thought of N having sex with Izzie made his stomach turn and his blood boil over. He was frustrated that he couldn't hear anything from the bugs the men planted almost two weeks ago.
What does she see in N anyway? Is it his British accent? I hear white men have smaller dicks. N can't satisfy her the way I can. Maybe he's using his tongue on her. That must be it, he thought.
Girls nowadays that's all they want. Even the nurse girl I was messing with wanted oral sex. Asked for it twice.
He sucked his teeth.
After she asked the second time mi have to stop deal with her. Dem girl deh fi get blocked! Bad man nuh go down!
Lequan wondered if Izzie would want oral sex from him too if she was with him. He grimaced. He'd had it done to him many times, even his last lover made his toes curl. But the thought of doing it to any girl made him feel sick. He liked Izzie, but he couldn't see himself doing that to her.
If N was also giving her 'wood', he could understand why she would like him. Girls these days were greedy: thinking in relationships it's all about them. He shook his head. That thing was for some men, not him. If he was with Izzie she would have to accept his terms. None of that freaky stuff!
Still, he wished she had chosen him. Izzie was a pretty girl. He thought she liked him too. He couldn't believe she let N touch her!
***
Nesbeth was making his mom's tasty pasta recipe when his phone rang. Izzie was upstairs taking a shower. They made love again after she confessed that she could be pregnant. He was extra gentle with her. He even kissed her between her thighs, but just one peck. He still felt awkward about that sort of thing, but he promised her that one day, when she least expected it, he would taste her.
It was a fantasy of hers. He didn't understand why, but he was trying to warm up to the idea, for her. Meanwhile, he refused to let her use her mouth on him. He told her that was something bad girls did, and she was his good girl.
He was happy about the potential baby. He loved her even more because she could be carrying his first child. He had always dreamed of being a father. If she was pregnant, he knew his mom would be over the moon with excitement. He stretched his neck forward to view the number, and swiped right to accept the call.
"Hello?" he answered.
"N," Tulloch said, "Remember your promise to us. We're gonna have to go to war."
"What do you mean?"
"Z is coming back!" Tulloch answered agitated.
"You changed your number?" N asked.
"Did you hear what I said?!" Tulloch asked.
"Why did you change your number?" N asked. A chill crawled up his spine prickling the back of his neck. He switched off the stove and took the stairs quickly. He opened Izzie's bedroom door and heard the shower still running. He put his hand over the phone receiver.
"Izzie?!" he yelled, his heart pounding.
"Yes?" she answered.
He sighed with relief. "Hurry up and get dressed baby. We need to move." He heard the water stop running. She came out with a towel wrapped around her.
"What's wrong?" she asked. Her eyes were filled with fear. He put his finger over his lips indicating she should be quiet.
"Yes, I will keep my end of the bargain," N said to Tulloch.
"Good," Tulloch replied. "Oh ... and Lequan is somewhere near you, watching Z's house."
N's jaw clenched in anger. "Is that right?"
"Mhm, I wouldn't lie to you," Tulloch said, his tone grave.
"Thank you for letting me know," N replied.
"Z should be here by the earliest tonight, latest tomorrow morning."
N's left hand closed into a tight fist. "Noted," he said.
There was a pause then Tulloch said, "Also, Z ordered a hit."
"A hit? On who?" N's heart started to pound.
"Remember that cop Z has a vendetta against?" Tulloch asked.
"Yes, I remember," Z answered.
"Well, apparently Z got Davian and Jack to wiretap Midnight's house phone. They heard Midnight asking the father of that cop's girlfriend--the lawyer guy--Dixon I think, to help him bury Z so he wouldn't get out of prison in Seychelles. Davian and Jack told Z, which is why he's coming back. He wants revenge."
N stared at the floor. With Z pay back was always personal.
"He put a hit on the lawyer?"
"Who is dead?" N asked. His grip tightened on the phone.
"Davian, Jack and Cash, all three. They went to do the job last night. The police shot Cash, but the other two the bodyguard killed. We had a decoy watching everything. That's what she reported back to Lequan. Lequan sent more men to finish the job. More than likely Lequan would have told Z what happened. Z called him this morning."
Tulloch sighed. "I haven't heard from Lequan since, so I don't know if the men he sent killed the bodyguard."
"Do you know who he sent?"
"No," Tulloch replied. "But I don't know them. These are new men. None of the men we know went."
N nodded. "I see. Are the men onboard?"
"Yes, they want those bonuses you promised," Tulloch said with a faint chuckle.
N smiled. "I'll make sure they get it."
"Meet me at Bull Dog's place. Let's meet there two hours from now. I have something I need to do."
"Will do," Tulloch said and hung up.
N looked at Izzie. "Get dressed baby," he said. "And pack some clothes. I'm taking you somewhere safe." He moved quickly to his room and stuffed his clothes in his bags. He brought two bags downstairs and waited for Izzie. He looked out the window, he saw nothing, but if Tulloch said Lequan was nearby he believed him.
N went to the back door, opened it and stepped into the backyard. He walked cautiously to the back gate and peered over the wall. Across the road was a car he knew very well. It was a black Toyota sedan. The tinted windows were rolled up. He couldn't see who was in it. Stepping away from the fence, he chuckled softly.
"Let's play a game of hide and seek, shall we?" he muttered, a cold grin forming on his face.
He went into the house and took out his .22 magnum and loaded it. He removed his gun holster from one of his bags and strapped it on. Izzie came downstairs with three bags. She slowed her steps when she saw what he was doing.
"What's going on?" she asked, her voice trembling. He reached for her, and she went to him. He held her close feeling her body trembling in his arms. He kissed her brow and rubbed her back slowly.
"Baby, I have to do something, okay? Go make sure the front door is locked. If you hear shots don't open the door until I call out to you. Okay?"
"Nes?"
"Okay?" He brushed his hand on her face.
She nodded. Her eyes wide as she looked up at him. "Please be careful," she whispered.
He nodded and briefly kissed her lips. "Go lock the front door and the back door behind me." She nodded. She went to lock the front door. When she returned he pinched her chin, and placed his left hand on her abdomen while his right hand held the gun.
Tears flowed down her cheeks as she looked at him. "I love you,' she said, her voice trembling.
"I love you," he said, exhaling sharply. He moved quickly to the back door, tucking his gun in its holster. He glanced at her, winked, and stepped outside. Izzie locked the door behind him.
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