By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER ONE
Stepping off the elevator onto the maternity ward floor, Major Steven Albright watched a woman's shapely butt, barely covered by a denim skirt, as it swayed back and forth. Left, right, left, right, left, right, left, and then right. It hypnotized him, as a grin erupted across his lips. He sighed, noticing her long black hair moved with the rhythm of her hips. A chill caused his body to shiver. "That's strange."
As he turned the corner, he glanced back at the woman and sighed. He bumped into Colonel Joe Barnes, a Task Force 385 member and good friend, as he bent over a water fountain.
Before Steven could speak, Joe glanced up. "Hi, I'm glad you're here." He scanned the hall. "Matt's been asking about the cocaine. Was it checked into the Task Force evidence room?"
Steven nodded. "It's locked up. Eric and Geoff bought twenty-eight kilos, worth somewhere around $800 thousand on the street. I've asked the lab to test it." Steven ran his fingers through his short, military cut, light brown hair. "We need to know where it's from."
Joe glanced up and down the hall. "It wouldn't surprise me if it's from Afghanistan. Have you heard from Eric and Geoff since Thursday night?"
"They checked in before I left Task Force." Steven waited for a nurse to walk past. "They want to buy more cocaine. Geoff thinks they're deep enough undercover they can buy fifty kilos. If they pull it off, they might meet the next level in the drug hierarchy. Maybe they'll meet the kingpin."
"It would help if we knew who we were dealing with." Joe rubbed his chin.
"Matt and I pulled surveillance during the drug buy. He didn't recognize anyone." Steven checked his phone.
"That's strange. He's worked for the Task Force over twenty years." Joe took a deep breath and shook his head. "Think he'll ever learn the Chief of Task Force 385 isn't supposed to do fieldwork?"
"Probably not." Steven grinned. "Matt likes the adrenaline rush too much. Not even Dani can control that desire. As the money and the drugs exchanged hands, Matt got the call Dani was in labor. He didn't wait for our guys to get out before he took off. Any word on if she's ready for visitors?"
"She's in recovery. Both Dani and daughter are doing great." Joe turned toward the recovery room with Steven following him.
"So Drew has a baby sister." Steven glanced at Joe and smiled.
Joe shook his head and grinned. "Yep, he wanted a baby brother."
"He's only a toddler," Steven teased.
When they peeked around the door, they saw both Dani and Matt asleep.
"It's probably the first chance Matt's had to sleep since Thursday. At least after I finished the paperwork, I caught a few hours." Steven glanced toward the nursery. "Can we see the baby?"
Walking toward the nursery, Joe said, "She only weighs five-pounds-ten-ounces."
"If she has the same innocent, big brown eyes as Dani, she'll have her father wrapped around her little finger, before she can roll over." Steven grinned.
"Then Matt doesn't have a chance. Just look at that little beauty" Joe chuckled and mades faces staring through the glass.
"Does this beautiful little lady have a name?" Steven stared through the window.
"Emily Ann Patterson." Joe grinned.
After watching the infant a few more minutes, they walked down the hall. Just before they reached the room, Steven studied the beautiful Hispanic woman walking toward them.
Their eyes met, and he felt hers searching the depths of his soul.
"How can such sexy dark eyes be so intrusive?" Steven asked himself.
*****
Joe also saw the woman. When he was certain she couldn't hear him, he whispered, "Wow. Did you see her? What a beauty." He moved his hands in the shape of an hourglass and whistled.
"I didn't notice." Steven glanced back and saw the denim skirt, butt, and long black hair sway back and forth. He felt she was the same female he had seen earlier.
Joe stopped and stared at Steven. "How could you miss her? She's hot!" He shook his head. "Man, you work too much."
*****
At the door, Steven glanced at Joe. "Tell Dani and Matt, I'll be there in a minute. I need some coffee."
Steven stood outside the recovery room, thinking about the woman with tantalizing eyes, the chill, and now the haunting eyes. He decided his imagination was on overdrive and he needed more sleep.
A phone call interrupted his thoughts. He entered the room and kissed Dani's cheek. "I saw your daughter. She's as gorgeous as her mother." Glancing toward Matt, he grinned. "You might as well surrender now."
"I know." Matt winked at Dani and laughed.
"Matt, we need to talk privately." Steven touched Dani's arm. "I'm sorry. I'll make it as fast as I can."
"Joe, stay with Dani." Matt let out a deep breath. "Don't leave her alone for any reason." He followed Steven to the hall.
The hall was too busy to talk, so they looked for an empty room.
As Steven closed the door, he sighed and said, "The cocaine's initial tests indicate it's 90% pure and from South America."
Matt frowned. "Ninety percent pure is dangerous on the streets. Do we know if they're cutting it with anything? Is it Colombian?"
"The lab's not finished. They don't know which country it's from. My guess is Colombia." He thought a moment. "Maybe Peru."
"The Vegas Cartel's been inactive since we arrested Ramon and his lieutenants. Hector, Ramon's son, hasn't been effective at running it. I'm pretty sure it's not them." Matt scratched the back of his neck.
"The other cartels aren't capable of producing 90% pure cocaine. They're small operations and aren't a threat," Matt said, then hesitated and took a deep breath.
"Peru cartels could be the answer. We haven't dealt with them so we don't have much information about them."
Matt took the phone from his belt clip. "I need to make some phone calls. Standby the door and make sure I'm not interrupted. Maybe we've suddenly become a vacation spot for Peru."
*****
After a nurse removed the IV's, Dani sat up in bed, changed channels, and then thumbed through a magazine. "Joe, where's Matt?"
"He's taking care of problems at Task Force. He should be back in a few minutes."
"Figures." She sighed.
"I'll get him, if you promise to stay in bed until we return."
"I promise." She adjusted her pillows before she lay back in bed.
Joe kissed her cheek. Turning toward the door he said, "Matt will be here in a few minutes."
Dani drifted into a semi-sleep but awoke suddenly. Searching the room, she expected someone to be standing over her. Unable to ignore the compulsion to check on Emily, she pressed her hands against her chest trying to stop the pounding in her heart.
Feeling her daughter needed her, she repeatedly pushed the call-button for the nurse's station and screamed, "Nurse, Nurse, Nurse." The urge to help her infant overcame her and she ran to NICU.
| Author Notes | I know there's not a lot of action, but I'm laying foundations and introducing characters. Thank you for reviewing. I appreciate your help. |
By barbara.wilkey
Steven paced the hospital hall waiting for Matt's instructions. As he glanced to his left, large, dark brown penetrating eyes stared at him.
Steven made eye contact and nodded, but she scurried away.
Catching up to her, he asked, "Have we met?"
"No hablo' Ingles." (I don't speak English.) She focused on Steven.
"Hablo' Espanol." (I speak Spanish.) Before he could ask his original question in Spanish, she hurried away.
He considered following her, but Joe interrupted his thoughts, "Steven, where's Matt?"
"In there." He pointed toward the door. "Making phone calls. Why?"
"Dani needs him."
Matt filled the doorway with his massive size. "I see Dani convinced you to leave her alone, again." He shoved the phone in his pocket and shook his head. "Why do I continue leaving you with her?"
"She promised not to leave her bed." Joe rubbed the back of his neck. "She needs you. Can't work wait?"
Nodding, he glanced at Steven. "Walk with me. I will explain what I need. You'll have to be my legs until Dani and Emily are released from the hospital."
*****
"Where's Emily?" Dani cried, glaring at the empty incubator labeled Baby Patterson. She slammed her fist against the window. "Where's my baby?" Starting to collapse, she leaned against the glass and wept.
Matt, Joe, and Steven recognized the voice crying out and ran to the nursery.
Matt slipped his arm around Dani. "She's with a nurse." He glanced toward the nurse's station. When he didn't see his daughter, he ordered, "Joe, stay with Dani."
"Where's my daughter?" Matt stood inside the door.
The heavyset nurse glared at him. "She's in the incubator where she belongs. You aren't allowed in here." She pointed for him to leave.
Ignoring her request, his eyes scanned the nursery and surrounding area. "No, she's not. Is she with a nurse or doctor?"
"Nobody took her." The nurse walked over to the incubator. "I'm sure nobody ...." She saw only pink sheets and released a deep breath. "Let me check." At the desk, she flipped pages checking the chart and then called the pediatrician.
When the pediatrician entered, he stared at the nurse. "The infant's in her incubator." Upon noticing the baby's absence, he rubbed the back of his neck, walked to the other side of the incubator and searched again. "Someone could have accidentally placed her in the wrong incubator."
*****
The nurse called hospital security, as the pediatrician realized baby Patterson wasn't anywhere in the nursery.
Steven alerted his team members. The possibility any number of drug cartels kidnapped the infant was imminent.
Dani, weak and upset, fell to the floor.
Matt knelt beside her and kissed her cheek. "I promise I'll find Emily. Let me help you to your room." His arms surrounded her weak body.
Dani clung to Matt's neck. "She's only five hours old and so helpless. Why would anyone hurt her?"
The three men stared at each other, fearing the answer to Dani's question.
Once Dani was in her room, Matt met with Joe, Steven, and a few other team members, who had already arrived. They decided to keep the infant's kidnapping a secret. Task Force activities were confidential and public scrutiny could hinder future operations.
Matt and Joe remained with Dani. George Wright, a senior Task Force member and Joe's partner, would stay at Matt's residence with Silea, Dani's mother, and Drew, their two-year-old son.
Michael and Bob, members of the Task Force and on Steven's team, secured security tapes from the nursery and the surrounding halls.
Jim and Derek, junior Task Force members, secured the tapes from entrances and exits of the hospital.
Steven contacted Eric and Geoff, who were undercover, so they could use their sources to see if any information regarding the kidnapping had hit the streets.
Matt gave the eight remaining Task Force teams specific jobs, assisting with the search.
The Task Force special reaction team was put on alert in case their specialty was needed.
Steven coordinated the gathered information and discovered a male dressed like a nurse removed Emily. He hid his face from the security cameras, so he knew where the cameras were placed. It was decided he was planted inside the hospital in anticipation of Dani's delivery.
Another camera revealed someone resembling that man left the hospital, but he didn't have an infant with him.
Either someone else removed Emily, or the infant remained hidden inside. Hospital security guarded the exits.
As adrenaline pumped through Steven, he coordinated information with hospital security and the Task Force so jobs weren't duplicated. Joe relayed information from Steven to Matt.
Steven stared at his watch and sighed. Only forty minutes had passed since they discovered Emily was missing. Hating the feeling of helplessness in his gut, he paced as he held the receiver to his ear checking the status of the search.
*****
Joe stood in the corner and noticed the mysterious dark eyed woman creep into Dani's room.
"I'm sorry Miss, but you're in the wrong room. This is a private room." Joe observed her with wary eyes.
Matt glanced up. "Is there a problem?"
The woman stared at Matt. "You're General Patterson, yes?"
"Yes." Matt stood and asked, "And you are?"
"Leya Maria Santiago Vegas."
"Why are you here?" Joe stepped beside Matt.
"I understand your infant is missing." Her eyes focused only on Matt. "I know where she is, or was ten minutes ago."
Dani sat up abruptly. "Oh God! Where's my baby! Please tell me, please, where is my little girl?" She tried to get out of bed, closer to the woman.
| Author Notes | I just double checked my Spanish words and the apostrophe was were it belonged and not some other symbol. I hope when I post it, it stays where it belongs. |
By barbara.wilkey
Steven heard Dani cry out and ran into the room, but came to a sudden halt. His eyebrows rose and mouth opened wide when he saw the woman with the large, dark brown eyes standing in front of Matt. "What's going on?" He glanced from Matt to Joe.
"Senorita Vegas says she knows where my daughter is."
As Matt spoke, Steven noticed his hands were fisted and his muscles tense. Taking her arm, Steven asked, "Donde'?" (Where?)
"If General Patterson will offer me protection, I'll take you to her." Leya spoke with only a hint of an accent.
"Your English has improved." Steven glared at her before glancing at Matt. "Will we offer her protection?"
"Yes, she's our only lead. Joe, stay with Dani, while Steven and I go with Senorita Vegas."
Joe stepped closer to Matt. "It could be a trick." He nodded toward the woman. "Dani needs you here. Let me go with Steven."
"True." He removed the SIG Sauer 9mm from his shoulder holster, chambered a round, and replaced it. "I can protect Dani. You get my daughter."
Joe and Steven nodded.
Steven led Senorita Vegas from the room.
Once in the hall, Joe sighed as he stared at Leya. "OK, Missy. What do you know?"
Pulling her arm from Steven's grasp, she raised her head and pulled her shoulders back. As she flipped her long, black, curly hair with great dignity, she said, "I am Leya Maria Santiago Vegas, the daughter of Hector Vegas and the granddaughter of Ramon Vegas. I will not be called Missy."
The men's eyes met, and Steven sighed. "Great! Just what we need is to be dealing with a stubborn drug cartel princess."
"Do you want the infant back or not?" She turned to walk away.
"I'm very sorry for my friend's comment. After you take us to the infant, how can we protect you?" Joe nodded at Steven, as he poked his arm.
"I'm sorry for my comment." He felt Joe was right but hated apologizing to a woman he didn't trust.
Leya led them to the service elevator. "My family's in the United States visiting Maria Vegas, my great-aunt. She's in this hospital with a heart condition. I was leaving to get lunch when I overheard Miguel, my youngest brother, tell a friend he'd kidnapped an infant. He mentioned they're hiding the infant in a storage room in the basement."
She studied the elevator buttons. "I followed them and heard an infant crying. I know there are at least two men guarding her, but there could be more. As I left the basement, my brother saw me. If you rescue her, he'll know I betrayed him and my life will be in danger." Moisture filled her eyes as her bottom lip quivered.
"Miguel hopes the Vegas Cartel will regain their power. He's avenging the imprisonment of my grandfather, Ramon. Great-aunt Maria blames her heart condition on General Patterson. He put her only child and her lover in prison."
As the service elevator took them to the basement, Steven called Matt. "You need to leave as soon as Emily's safe. We're dealing with the Vegas Cartel. They want vengeance for Ramon Vegas, Antonio Vegas, and Nick Smith's imprisonment."
"It's been over three years. Are you sure?"
"Yep. I'll fill you in later."
As the elevator door opened, Steven put the phone away. After scanning the dimly lit vacant corridor, he glanced at Leya. "Now where?"
The two men followed her down the long corridor, until it came to an intersection, then turned right. After passing three closed doors, she released a deep breath before she stopped.
"The infant should be inside." She pointed at a thick, dark gray door and gulped.
Steven listened at the door but heard nothing. When he drew his SIG Sauer 9mm, Joe followed. They each chambered a round, and moved to opposite sides of the door.
Steven pushed Leya behind him with his left arm and whispered, "Stay put."
He held three fingers in front of Joe's face to let him know they would enter on three. Steven held up his pointer finger, waited, then held up the middle finger. Swallowing hard, he released a deep breath, before holding up his ring finger.
On the third raised finger, Steven threw the door open and rushed the room with Joe at his back.
| Author Notes | Thank you for your review. I appreciate you taking time to read. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER TWO
Steven and Joe entered the room with weapons ready. A tall slender Hispanic man jumped out of a chair and reached for his holstered gun. Steven lunged and grabbed the man's arm before he drew. While placing the muzzle of his own pistol inot the man's chest, he said, "Haga ni piense de ello." (Don't even think about it.)
Leya stepped into the room. "Is they baby still here?"
This man's unarmed state did not prevent his near-black eyes from glaring at Leya, as she stood in the doorway. Using his right hand, he swiped across his throat, indicating her fate.
Steven's heart skipped a beat, when he saw fear in her eyes. "You better wait in the hall." After she left the room, he handcuffed the man's wrists behind his back. "You won't be making good on that threat."
Joe searched cardboard boxes scattered around the floor until he found the infant, asleep and wrapped in a pink hospital blanket. He lifted her from the box and cradled her to his chest, kissing her forehead. "Precious little one, your parents can't wait to get you back," he whispered.
A tall stout Hispanic man walked through the rear door and aimed a Smith and Wesson snub-nose revolver at Joe and the baby.
"Ponga' el bebe aqui." (Put the baby here.) He kicked a cardboard box in Joe's direction.
The slender man yelled, "Polici'as!"
Joe turned his back and crouched down, protecting the infant from the fired gun. Steven stood, feet apart and put a double tap into that man's chest. "Let's get out of here before the entire Vegas Cartel shows up." He bent down checking for a pulse and removed his weapon. "We won't need to worry about this one."
Joe carried Emily down the hall, as Leya walked beside him.
"Do you know these men?" Joe asked Leya, as they turned toward the elevator.
She glanced at the man walking in front of Steven. "That's my cousin. The man on the floor, a cousin of Carlos Martinez."
"Where's your brother?" Steven hoped to catch the mastermind behind the kidnapping.
"I know you won't believe this, but I don't know." She stared at Steven, then sighed. "My guess is that he's headed home to Bogota'."
*****
When they reached Dani's room, Joe placed Emily in her arms. Tears ran down Dani's cheeks as she kissed her daughter. She opened her mouth to speak.
Joe dried a tear. "You don't need to say anything. I understand."
"Thank you for helping get Emily ...." Before he finished saying his daughter's name, Matt had whipped his 9mm from his holster. He took a stance, aiming between Hector Vegas's eyes. Matt cocked the hammer back as the drug lord walked into the room.
Dani cradled Emily to her chest and drew her knees up as to create a shield surrounding the infant.
Leya's eyes widened as she backed up until her back touched the far wall.
"You are no longer my daughter." His hardened black eyes glared at her. "I will not protect you from the family." His accent was heavy. "You will not escape their vengeance."
"I've been told Miguel planned the kidnapping. I will arrest him. If you attempt to protect him, you will be arrested." Matt glared into Vegas's eyes.
Hector pointed his index finger at Leya and spit on the floor in disgust. "You have been warned." He turned and left the room.
Leya stood beside the window, alone, as angry tears streamed down her cheeks.
*****
Steven walked into the room, felt the tension, and scanned the room. "OK, what did I miss?"
Matt motioned him toward the door. As Matt told him about Hector's visit, Steven rubbed the back of his neck. "Why not arrest Hector?"
"According to Senorita Vegas, he didn't order the kidnapping. Miguel was the mastermind. I warned him not to protect his son."
Steven released a deep sigh. "Looks like Hector can't control his family. His son acted on his own and his daughter betrayed her brother. This is a mess. No wonder they haven't been a threat since we arrested Ramon. Ramon would've killed anyone who thought about acting without his authority."
"What happened to the men who had Emily?"
"I handed them off. They're en route to the Task Force; one to the morgue, and the other to interrogation."
"Good job." Matt glanced at the two women in the room. "Take Senorita Vegas to the safe house where we kept Dani." Matt checked his cell phone. "Since Miguel Vegas has the power to plan a kidnapping, he can order his sister's execution. Hector just admitted he can't or won't stop him."
Steven glanced up and down the hall, then stepped away from the door. "We don't know anything about that woman. She could be part of a scheme to penetrate our security."
"It's possible." Matt took a deep breath. "We'll relocate the safe house after she leaves. What if she's innocent?" After pausing, he answered his own question, "Hector's weak. He has to restore his authority and has no choice, but to allow a hit on his daughter. We need to provide her protection."
Matt studied Dani nursing Emily, then glanced at Steven. "Make sure she doesn't have a weapon and confiscate her cell phone."
He sighed, before grinning. "I have a feeling she'll create more problems than Dani did when she was under our protection." He hesitated, then asked, "Ralph Burton retired, what ... about eight months ago?"
Steven nodded.
"See if he'll let you reactivate him. You'll probably need him."
"Good idea. I can always use someone with his years of experience." Steven used his cell phone to make the call.
*****
Leya watched Steven through the doorway and reminded herself to breathe. He was over six feet tall and very muscular. The polo shirt couldn't hide the defined muscles of his chest, shoulders, or upper arms. His pushed up sleeves revealed his toned forearms and large hands.
A shiver slid down Leya's body, as her eyes glided down his frame. His blue jeans fit every muscular surface of his lower body to manly perfection.
Remembering his dazzling green eyes, caused a gulp to catch in her
throat. "Father, I will not marry Carlos Martinez," she whispered. She grabbed the back of a chair as she felt her legs collapsing.
| Author Notes | Thank you for your reviews. I appreciate you help. |
By barbara.wilkey
Dani covered her mouth, hid her smile, and watched Leya ogle Steven. "Steven's single, a workaholic, and a little shy." Dani put Emily against her chest and rubbed her back. "Maybe you could change that."
"I'm sorry." Leya stared at her white knuckles clutching the back of the chair, as her cheeks turned pink. After she took three deep breaths, she turned her head abruptly. "What did you say?"
"I said Steven's single, in case you're interested." She smiled, as the infant burped.
"He despises me and made some sarcastic remark about me being another stubborn female." Leya moved the chair beside Dani's bed and glanced toward Steven before she sat.
"That's OK." Dani's eyes sparkled. "Task Force men like strong women. They complain about us, but wouldn't have it any other way." She paused before changing the subject. "Why'd you betray your family for my baby?"
"I'm tired of living a life surrounded by violence." Leya wiped a tear from the corner of her eye. "I'll never have a normal life if my family continues this war with Task Force 385."
Her finger caressed Emily's arm before she added, "I couldn't allow this innocent little one to suffer because Miguel wants to avenge something that was our family's fault in the first place."
Dani sighed, watching Emily's pediatrician and Joe walk into the room.
Standing beside the bed, the doctor said, "Mrs. Patterson, I need to examine this young lady. I'll have her back in your arms in less than thirty minutes."
"You're not taking my daughter anywhere. She's staying with me." Dani cradled the infant closer to her body.
Matt had followed the men into the room. "Dani, I understand your reluctance, but Emily needs to be examined."
After rubbing her daughter's back, she sighed. "I'll let her leave if Joe and Steven can stay with her."
Matt rubbed the back of his neck but nodded.
When Joe walked past Matt, he whispered, "The necessary precautions are in place for Emily to go home. An incubator will be there within the hour. A nurse will arrive by 1600 hours." He glanced toward Dani. "I assured the doctor you have a helicopter at your disposal and the infant will be no more than fifteen minutes from the hospital. Once she's cleared, we're ready to leave."
Within minutes, a nurse came to help Dani dress, and Matt pointed toward the door. "Senorita Vegas, would you like a cup of coffee?" As they walked toward the cafeteria, Matt took a deep breath and glanced at her. "Arrangements have been made for you to stay at a safe house."
"What about my clothes?"
"It won't be safe for you to get your things. You can buy what you need on the way. I detailed a Task Force team to protect you. You can trust these men with your life."
*****
When the pediatrician returned with Emily, he carried a file with him. "Since you're taking the infant home today, against my advice, there's some paperwork we need to discuss." He thumbed through the file and then handed Dani some papers.
Matt motioned for Steven to follow him to the hall, but his eyes remained on Dani, as he said, "I'm sitting this one out. I can't put my family or the entire Task Force at risk. Until Emily's out of danger, I'm on leave. Good luck, but remember I'm only a phone call away."
A nurse pushed a wheelchair into Dani's room and Matt followed. Within minutes, Matt, Dani, and Emily left the hospital.
*****
The room was so silent Steven thought he heard his heart beating. He ran his hand through his hair, sighed, and then scanned the surroundings. Finally, he broke the silence, "Are you going to speak English, or are we going to do this in Spanish?" He hesitated to make his point before he said, "A proposito, domino el Espanol. Es tu' preferencia." (By the way, I'm fluent in Spanish. It's your choice.)
Leya glared at him. "I will not apologize for my earlier actions. I didn't know if I could trust you. In fact, I'm still not sure I can. General Patterson said I could trust you with my life." She glared into his eyes. "I'm not convinced."
"Come on." He hated this assignment. Holding her arm, he led her toward the exit.
As they waited for the elevator, he stared at her. "I've covered Matt's back on numerous occasions. He has every reason to trust me. I, by the way, wasn't caught lying. Recuerda?" (Remember?)
Steven gently tugged her arm as they left the hospital. "Damn, another pretty face," he said under his breath.
| Author Notes |
I have not figured out an perfect way to write in English translations to the Spanish words. I've considered putting them in author's notes, but there are no author's notes in a novel.
Thank you for taking time to review. I appreciate all your help. |
By barbara.wilkey
Standing in the mall parking lot, Steven introduced Leya Maria Santiago Vegas to team members, Michael Miles, Bob Hendricks, Derek Holmes, and Jim Bookman. "These men are part of your security and can be trusted."
Steven led her toward the front door, but stopped and turned toward her. "The entire team's fluent in Spanish, so pretending you don't speak English won't work."
"Lo siento." (I'm sorry.) Leya stared at the ground.
"De nada." (Don't mention it.) As Steven opened the door for her, he understood she apologized for lying to him.
*****
Inside a women's dress store, Steven glanced around the area. "Men, space yourselves up and down this aisle." He pointed to an area around the petite section and tried to hide his grin, but couldn't. "Try not to look overly conspicuous."
Steven remained close to Leya, but allowed her privacy as she shopped. He watched her bend to adjust a strap of her left three-inch stiletto. The waistband of her denim skirt puckered at the small of her back revealing the top of butterfly wings perching on the light blue thong now visible. "I'd like to see the rest of that tattoo," he whispered. He rubbed the back of his neck and sighed, knowing that was impossible.
Ralph Burton stood beside him and said, "You need to be careful. That one could be a black widow."
Steven glanced at him and nodded, fully aware of the potential danger this gorgeous woman possessed. His eyes examined the full length of Leya's body; she was petite, stood maybe five-feet-two-inches tall and weighed around 105 pounds. "Who could miss that round little ass in the short skirt?" he whispered. Wishing he didn't know it wasn't fully covered. He wondered how far down the butterfly tattoo went.
When she turned toward him, he noticed she wore a sheer blouse and the bra didn't fully cover her breasts. He studied the breasts and thought, not too large, but perfectly shaped.
Steven overheard Leya speaking Spanish with a woman who stood beside her. He wondered if she might be contacting an informant. He walked to her. "You need to hurry. All you need are blue jeans and T-shirts."
She held a red, lace thong panty set in front of her body, smiled, and batted her eyes. "Do you like this?"
"I can promise you won't need anything like that." He glared at her as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Finish up. We need to get out of here." He swallowed as he prayed his body wouldn't betray him.
"I need more undies and some toiletries ... Por favor."
Steven tossed a package of white briefs in the basket. "These will do. Now let's leave."
She returned the package of white briefs to the shelf and stepped beside him. "Why are you in such a hurry?" Her hand ran up and down the length of his arm. "Does women's lingerie embarrass you?"
"Lingerie is not my concern. I'm responsible for your safety and the longer we're in the open the greater the chance your family will find you." He turned, adjusted the lump in his blue jeans, and wished he could stop the desires swelling within his loins.
| Author Notes | After this post there's only one more sentence of Spanish until the end. Thank you for your help. It seems the majority of my fans think this is the best way to handle it. I appreciate the feedback and the review. Thank you. |
By barbara.wilkey
After driving around the city and riding in a helicopter, they landed in the country. Steven helped Leya step down and pointed toward a navy-blue sedan. "Wait for me by the car. I'll be there in a minute. I need to discuss something with Michael and Bob." When she was out of hearing range, Steven turned and said, "She needs to be frisked. Would either of you like to do it?"
"We'll allow you the honors." Michael grinned and glanced toward Leya.
"After all, rank has its privileges," Bob added.
Both men remained at the landing pad.
Standing beside Leya, Steven held out his hand. "I need your cell phone." She flipped her hair behind her shoulder, before placing it in his hand. "Turn around, place your hands on the car, and spread your legs. I need to search for weapons." He dreaded the frisk.
"I won't turn around. If you're really checking for weapons, you can face me while you do it." She raised her left knee and rubbed it against his thigh.
"Whatever." He placed his hands on her shoulders and patted them down.
"I might be hiding a gun under here." She lifted her thick, black, tresses from her neck.
"You're right." Steven ran his fingers through her soft hair. An attempt to conceal his gulp failed.
"That tickles." She raised her arms above her head.
He began at her armpits and patted down her sides, until he came to her thighs.
"Maybe I'm hiding a knife in my bra, panties, or between my legs. Aren't you going to check?"
"If you insist. I was allowing you some dignity." Only check for metal in there. Professionalism at all times. He cupped his hands around the soft mounds, making certain nothing was hidden inside the bra. Damn, they're soft. No fondling. After he placed his hand beneath her sheer blouse, he slid a finger under each wire making certain weapons weren't concealed. His breathing rate increased and he felt a twinge within his loins as his finger brushed against the soft skin of each breast. I touched her breast, but I did not fondle.
He shifted his stance and continued to swipe his hands across her stomach. He knelt down, put his hands on the inside of each leg, and slid them under her skirt touching what little silk panty she wore. He closed his eyes to ensure he didn't peek, but before he said, "Turn around," one eye opened. Pink lace, very nice. After she complied, he stood.
His hands slid down her back, then under her skirt. When he touched her bare butt, he blew out a breath hoping to conceal his moan. I could check in that tat. Damn, the skirt's too tight. I can't see the butterfly. "You can get in the car. I didn't find anything of interest." He stared beyond the car hoping she wouldn't notice his body reacting to her. As he opened the passenger door, he couldn't help but notice moisture welling in her eyes.
Pangs of guilt filled his gut.
*****
After arriving at the safe house, Leya stood beside the car. "Are you doing another body search? Did you miss something?"
"I'm sorry for the extent of the search, but I was required to search for weapons." He walked toward the house. "Come on."
She didn't move. "You don't trust me at all, do you?"
He turned toward her. "Nope. Matt ordered me to protect you. I promise to do that. Matt and Dani are like family to me. I'm grateful you returned their infant but I'm suspicious of your motives." He held her arm and led her to the front porch. "Let's go inside so you can get settled."
Inside Steven tried to relieve some tension between them. "Sientase como en su casa." (Make yourself at home.)
Leya scanned the inside of the house and saw Derek, Ralph, and Jim lounging in the living room watching TV.
"I was born a Vegas and I will not serve as a maid." Her hands were on her hips as she glared at Steven.
"Nobody expects you to be a maid. You're here to make sure that family you're so proud of doesn't retaliate against you. Remember?" he asked.
She took a deep breath and nodded.
"Your room's upstairs." He led her toward the stairs. "It's fairly large. The men aren't allowed inside unless invited. "You're welcome down here anytime. Meals are at 7:30, 12:00, and 6:30. If you want to eat with us, you're welcome. If you want to eat alone, we ask that you tell us in advance and someone will bring your plate." At the top of the stairs, he opened her bedroom door but stood in the hall. "There's an exercise room to the left of the kitchen. You're welcome to use it anytime. Don't go outside, unless one of us is with you. There are six men living downstairs, so I suggest you act like a lady at all times." He closed the door and left.
She opened the door and with hands on hips glared at him. "I always act like a lady."
| Author Notes | This post is the last Spanish translation, until the end of the book. I'm still struggling with the italics. I used single quotes for thought. Thank you for your reviews. I appreciate each one. School has started. I'm trying to figure out a way to continuing posting twice a week. The novel is complete, but I'm struggling to find time to review, so I can reward my reviewers with the points they deserve. |
By barbara.wilkey
When Steven reached the bottom step, he went to his office and called Matt.
The first words Matt spoke were, "I hear things aren't going too well with Senorita Vegas."
"How'd you find out?"
"I called a few minutes ago and Michael explained what happened. You need to make sure you're in control. Don't allow her the slightest edge. I'm not sure why or what, but she wants something from you. You need to find out what."
"How do I do that?"
"Have you tried asking? Maybe talking would help?"
"You know I'm not good with words." Steven heard Matt sigh.
Steven's head turned at the sound of a helicopter overhead. He stood, moved aside the curtain, and looked out. "A copter landed. I'll call back."
At the landing pad, he saw Eric step down. "What are you doing here?"
"Geoff was injected with heroin and beaten. The Task Force doc released him but wanted him out of sight for a few weeks so he'll have time to recover. Joe's informing Matt."
Steven helped Eric assist Geoff Wilson to a vacant bedroom.
After Geoff was comfortable, Eric turned to leave. "I need to get back before I'm missed." He put his hand on Geoff's shoulder. "I promise I'll find out who did this."
"Don't leave until I clear this with Matt. With Geoff out of commission, you won't have back-up." Steven took the phone off his belt clip. As he spoke with Matt, Leya walked into the bedroom. Steven hung up.
"Whoa, who's this lovely lady?" Eric stared at Leya, then glanced toward Steven.
"I'm Leya Maria Santiago Vegas, and you are?"
"Oh, so you're the woman who returned Matt's baby. Thank you for that. I'm Eric Hoff."
"Matt will give you further instructions." Steven walked toward the door.
As the two men hurried to the helicopter, they discussed the possibility of a security breech with Leya residing at the house.
After watching the helo disappear over the horizon, Steven turned toward the house and stopped when he noticed Leya push aside Geoff's bedroom curtain.
Their eyes met.
Once again, her eyes captivated him and read his deepest, most private thoughts.
| Author Notes | I've held off posting the final part to chapter 2, because I couldn't get it exactly the way I wanted it. I finally gave up. I appreciate you reviews and help. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER THREE
Leya watched from the corner of the room while Michael and Bob cared for Geoff. "What happened? Will he be all right?" Tears rolled down her cheeks.
Michael glanced toward her. "The wrong people discovered he worked for Task Force. He was injected with heroin, beaten, and then tossed from a moving car in front of the Task Force building." Stepping beside her, he continued, "He should be fine, but heroin slows down recovery."
She used the back of her hand to dry tears as she chewed her lower lip.
"Leya, you shouldn't be here." Steven stood in the doorway.
"I want to help. If Geoff can describe the men who did this, maybe I'll know who they work for. There are six active drug cartels in Colombia. Maybe my family isn't responsible for this." She closed her eyes and gulped.
Steven took her arm and led her toward his office. "If you tell me what you know, I'll share what I can."
While Leya sat in an overstuffed, dark-blue chair beside Steven's desk, the phone rang. Answering it, Steven listened before he put his hand over the receiver. "Leya, I need to take this. It will take awhile. Wait for me in your room. When I'm finished, we'll talk."
*****
Waiting for Leya to answer the door, Steven counted the reasons he didn't trust her.
One, her searching eyes,
Two, she's Roman Vegas's granddaughter,
Three, she wants something from me, but what?
Fourth, I'm attracted to her.
Fifth ....
"Come in." Her voice interrupted his thoughts.
Steven opened the door and less than five-feet from him stood Leya.
"Do you like what you see?" Wearing the matching red lace bra and thong set she'd held up at the mall, she turned a complete circle.
He clamped his eyes shut trying to gain control of his desires. With his eyes closed, her deep, rich, olive-colored fully exposed butt flashed through his mind. The wings of the butterfly tattoo filled the top half of her butt cheeks. Squeezing his eyes tighter, he attempted but couldn't ignore the large portion of each areola that peeked from the red lace bra and her erect nipples. Her long, black-curly hair framed her perfectly shaped body. Arms slipped around his neck, pulling him closer as she brushed her soft, moist lips against his. The sweet, floral, fragrance of Leya's perfume melted Steven's resistance. His body betrayed him as it automatically responded to her advances. He needed to put an end to this seduction before he succumbed. When he felt her hesitate and step back, he opened his eyes and realized she'd felt his arousal.
She unfastened the front clasp of her bra. "You do like what you see, don't you?" she asked in an alluring whisper. She lowered the bra straps from her shoulders.
Yes, I like what I see and you read my eyes as well as my body, so why are you asking? "You're very beautiful, but...." Were the only words he managed to speak, before he thought, I need to get out of here, now. He turned to leave.
"Don't leave. I need you," Leya pleaded, grabbing and holding his arm.
| Author Notes | I'm hoping the italics work. If you not, I'm sure you will let me know. Thank you for your review. |
By barbara.wilkey
"You need me? For what?" Steven closed his eyes, opened them, and then glared at Leya. "Why are you throwing yourself at me?"
She stared at the floor as she released a deep breath.
"Do you attempt to seduce every man you meet or just certain ones?" He shoved the sleeves to his elbows. As moisture filled her eyes, he rubbed the back of his neck. Not tears, why do women always cry?
Seeing a T-shirt lying on the back of a chair, he grabbed it and tossed it toward her. "After you put on this, you can tell me what's really going on."
Leya tried to refasten her bra but fumbled with the clasp.
Putting his hand over hers, he accidentally brushed her bare breasts and moaned inwardly at the softness of the skin. "Forget the bra. It's not necessary at this point."
She slipped the T-shirt over her head, then removed the bra through a sleeve.
After accepting Steven's outstretched hand, she followed him to the bed and sat beside him.
Steven broke the silence, "Why are you trying to get me to ...?" He couldn't think of an appropriate word to use, so restarted, "Why do you want us to ...?" Again, he struggled to find the correct word.
Leya blurted out, "If we have sex, I won't have to marry Carlos Martinez."
"What?" His eyes widened and jaw dropped open as he stared at her.
"If we have sex, I won't have to marry Carlos Martinez."
"I heard you the first time, but it doesn't make sense. What does us having sex have to do with you getting married? I've never met you before today."
"My father promised me to Carlos Martinez. If we marry, Father can merge the Vegas and Martinez drug cartels. Even if I refuse to attend the ceremony, I'd still be legally married. The marriage would be one of convenience, not love."
She fidgeted with her hands. "I've met Carlos on three occasions, once when I was a young girl; then when I was away at school. The third time was when our fathers' finalized the marriage contract." She focused her eyes on the wall. "Carlos is a pig. I could never marry him."
Steven watched her as he thought. "I need to back up a little. You said your dad wants to merge the two cartels. Why?"
Studying her hands, she adjusted a ring on her right ring finger and gulped. "When Task Force arrested my grandfather, two of our main warehouses and a shipping yard were destroyed. The warehouses were used for manufacturing and storing cocaine. My father has tried, but hasn't restored the business to its previous standard."
After chewing her lower lip, she moistened them using the tip of her tongue. "Carlos's family has gained power and threatens to become the most powerful drug cartel in Colombia. Rumor has it Carlos' father has a government official in his back pocket." She closed her eyes. "It has to do with owing a large offshore gambling debt."
She searched Steven's eyes. "If Father merges the two, then together they become the most powerful drug cartel in South America or maybe the world."
Steven listened, as he sympathized with her. "I see why you want out of the engagement, but what does it have to do with seducing me?"
"Father promised Carlos a virgin. If I'm not a virgin, I break the contract."
There's no way this woman is a virgin. He hung his head and stared at the floor. I'd better leave it at that. "Why me?" He glanced at his watch. "We've known each other for a little over twelve hours."
"I don't have much time, only until Friday. It's already Monday. I saw you at the hospital. You're handsome and appear nice. It wouldn't be too bad, I guess."
"Just tell Carlos you're not a virgin."
"Since it's an arranged marriage, I need a doctor stating my ...." She cleared her throat. "Status." Tears filled her eyes. "I told you the truth. Now, will you help me?"
She glanced at his crotch. "You were attracted to me." She held her breath, then released it. "I promise, you'll get some enjoyment from it."
"I'm sure there's a better solution than us having sex." He rubbed the back of his neck. How am I going to solve this problem? The only thing I know for sure is having sex with Leya will cause more problems than it would solve.
"I'm desperate," she said, interrupting his thoughts. "I don't normally seduce men." She stared at the wall behind them.
He lifted her chin and searched her eyes. "I promise I'll come up with a plan so you won't have to marry Carlos. I need to leave, and you need to put on more clothes." He stood and walked toward the door. "We'll discuss it in the morning."
| Author Notes | I hope the itlacs works. The always make me nervous. |
By barbara.wilkey
Early the following morning, Steven answered the secure phone in his office and heard, "I have a solution for Leya's problem."
After a brief pause, he asked, "Is this Dani? How did you find out about this mess? Where's Matt?"
"Yes, this is Dani. He's working out. When Matt came to bed last night, I was nursing Emily, and he mentioned Leya's problem. We discussed it until Emily fell asleep."
"Slow down and take a breath." I know I'm going to regret this. He massaged the area above his eyebrows. "Start from the beginning." Steven heard her take a deep breath.
"If you marry Leya, she can't marry Carlos."
"I like being a bachelor and don't want to marry Leya Maria Santiago Vegas," he interrupted. "Anyway, how would that help? That idea would only make things worse. Why do you want me married, and to a total stranger?" He thought for a moment. "Besides won't any man work?"
"It'll be a marriage on paper only. I'm sure she's Roman Catholic. If you don't consummate the marriage, you can get it annulled. If she's married, she can't marry Carlos. All she needs is an official marriage certificate. Once Carlos hears about it, you can get an annulment. It'll be as if nothing ever happened."
"Any man who temporarily marries Leya, could get an annulment once she doesn't need to be married any longer. What stops Carlos from marrying her when the marriage is over?"
"Her father promised Carlos a virgin. Carlos will assume once she's married she won't be a virgin. He won't know the marriage was never consummated." Dani sighed deeply. "Steven, if the marriage is consummated, it can't be annulled. They'll either have to stay married or get a divorce, which could get messy."
"That won't be a problem. I think she wants to be a virgin until she's married." After taking time to think, Steven continued, "Let me make sure I understand this. All someone needs to do is marry that woman, and she won't have to marry Carlos? In a month or so they get the marriage annulled and it'll be as if nothing ever happened?"
"As long as the marriage isn't consummated."
"I understand." Why does discussing sex and Leya in the same sentence bother me?
"Emily's awake. I need to go. Good luck."
*****
Steven sat behind his desk and thought about Dani's plan.
When Ralph walked in, Steven discussed the problem with him.
"I guess it's a harmless solution," Ralph said. "I can't think of a better one. Of course, we could let Leya marry Carlos and stay out of other people's business."
"She would do anything to keep from marrying Carlos." Steven thumbed through a file on his desk.
"I'm under the impression you'd do anything to help her." Ralph rubbed the back of his neck.
Steven ignored Ralph's comment. "I guess the next step is to see if any one on the team wants to get married."
*****
Steven called a team meeting and discussed Leya's predicament. The men agreed they couldn't allow her to marry a man she hated and feared. When Steven asked for suggestions, there were none.
After Steven suggested Dani's idea of a mock marriage, the men decided to draw straws to see who would be the lucky or unlucky groom.
Steven lost.
Steven considered the situation one last time before knocking on Leya's door.
When Leya opened the door, her eyes searched his.
"You've solved my problem, haven't you?" She took his hand in hers.
"I have a suggestion, but you might not like it."
"Tell me. I'll do anything."
| Author Notes | Thank you for your reviews and continued support. I appreciate all of your help. |
By barbara.wilkey
After Steven suggested Dani's idea of a mock marriage, the men decided to draw straws to see who would be the lucky or unlucky groom.
Steven lost.
Steven considered the situation one last time before knocking on Leya's door.
When Leya opened the door, her eyes searched his.
"You've solved my problem, haven't you?" She took his hand in hers.
"I have a suggestion, but you might not like it."
"Tell me. I'll do anything."
*****
Attempting to avoid Leya's eyes, Steven blinked, before he placed his hand on the door jam and leaned against it. "We could get married but never consummate the marriage. At the appropriate time, we would have it annulled." Steven watched for Leya's reaction.
She thought for a moment, then smiled. "Are you proposing?"
"I guess, sort of. Shouldn't you think about it a little longer?"
"I've thought about it long enough and I accept." She tilted her head as the tip of her tongue peeked through her lips.
"This is a marriage on paper only." I hope she understands that we will not really be married. "We'll never live as husband and wife." He pushed up his sleeves to the elbow, then shoved his hands in his pockets. "This marriage will never be consummated."
"I understand. We'll never make love." She stepped closer. "Thank you for understanding how important it is to have a husband who loves me." She touched his arm.
Steven stared down at her hand resting on his forearm and stuttered, "When ... do you ... want ... to do ... um ... do ... this?"
"As soon as possible. I need to mail my father and Carlos each a copy of the marriage certificate. It needs to be in their hands before Friday."
"Is this afternoon too soon?"
"Nope. Let's do it."
She's way too anxious. "I'll make the arrangements." After leaving the room, he stared at her door. I hope I'm not making a mistake.
Inside his office, Steven called Matt. "Make the arrangements for a justice of the peace to arrive at the safe house this afternoon."
"Are you sure this is what you want? Not something Dani pushed you into."
"The team drew straws. I lost." He closed his eyes and breathed deeply. "It seems the easiest way to solve Leya's problem. We won't really be married."
"OK. I'll have a justice of the peace at the safe house around 1500 hours."
Matt paused, before he asked, "Was Leya sure about the government official owing the Martinez Cartel a gambling debt?"
"She sounded like she knew what she was talking about. Why?"
"I've spent the day checking sources and can't find any evidence. She was right about the Martinez Cartel getting stronger. They're probably the source of our 90% proof cocaine, but I can't prove it."
"Did you forget you're on leave?" Steven teased.
"While on leave, I work from home." Matt chuckled as he hung up the phone.
Staring at his desk, Steven thought about the impending marriage. He shook his head remembering he'd once asked Matt, 'What won't we do for a pretty face?' just before they broke into the National Security Building for Dani. He felt, once again, he was doing what was necessary for a woman with a pretty face. Only this time it was Leya Maria Santiago Vegas, a woman he didn't trust.
| Author Notes |
I recopied a few sentences to make it easier to step into this post.
Hugs and kisses to all my fans. Thank you for the time you spend reviewing my posts. I appreciate each one. |
By barbara.wilkey
"Geoff's asking for you." Michael leaned against the doorway of Steven's office.
Steven nodded, followed him, and stood beside Geoff's bed. "Feeling better?"
"Well enough to remember what happened. The Vegas Cartel didn't do this. The Martinez Cartel did."
"How'd they know you work for a government agency?"
Geoff took a deep breath, while rubbing his arm. "They knew I was undercover for Task Force 385, not just any government agency. They even knew you were my team chief. I'm guessing they breached security."
After sipping water, he added. "They knew you left the hospital with that Hispanic woman and grabbed me when they lost you. I was beaten while you were shopping."
"That's impossible," Steven snapped, then thought for a moment. "I trust our team. Nobody at the hospital knew about you." Steven scratched his head. "It has to be the cell phones. I called you once from the hospital asking if your sources were talking about the kidnapping." Steven tried to remember every conversation he'd had on the phone.
Ralph stood inside the door. "Maybe Leya made some calls."
"It's possible." He paused, then added, "She could be working for her father or the Martinez Cartel. While everyone was concerned about the infant, we could've gotten careless. Someone had to be working inside the hospital. How else would they know Dani went into labor?" Steven held his breath. Leya can't be the mole. It's impossible, isn't it?
Steven watched each team member walk through the door. "Somehow information is being leaked to the Drug Cartels. My best guess, right now, is someone used a high-powered scanner and a computer to monitor our calls. Until we know for sure don't use your cell phone." Hearing a helicopter overheard, he stared out the window and scratched the back of his neck. "Bob, would you meet the justice of the peace?"
*****
Pausing on each step, Steven stopped, took a deep breath, fisted and released his hands, before knocking on Leya's door. Hearing a 'come in', Steven remained in the hall and blew out a deep sigh. There's no way I'm opening that door two days in a row. I hope she's dressed. "Ready to get married?"
Leya opened the door and smiled. "Yes."
With team members surrounding them, Steven and Leya exchanged vows. It was impersonal and without rings.
When the justice of peace said, "You may now kiss the bride." Steven pecked Leya's cheek. After the short, cold kiss, he headed to his office and closed the door. Why does a peck on the cheek bother me? I've been to weddings and the groom always kisses the bride. Hell, why does this whole marriage bother me? Other than a piece of paper stating we're married, our relationship will in no way change. Sitting at his desk with his head in his hands, he closed his eyes. Don't ever draw straws with the men again. I'll always lose.
| Author Notes | I know many of my fans have waited for this wedding. I'm sorry to disappoint you, but it's here, sort of. |
By barbara.wilkey
Leya stood in the living room and stared at Steven's back as he walked away, then watched the other men leave. She understood it was a mock marriage, but still expected something more. After placing a foot on a stair, she turned and glanced at Steven's office door, hoping it would open. She repeated this until she stood in front of her bedroom door. With a deep sigh, she went in her room and stared in the mirror. Pressing her hand against her stomach, she tried to stop the empty feeling. Tears streamed down her cheeks. "Why do I feel so let down?"
Not wanting be alone, Leya left her room in search of someone to talk with or something to do. When she found the gym, she went inside and looked around. Seeing a vacant treadmill beside the far wall, she stepped from her three-inch stilettos, and in bare feet stood on the treadmill, staring at red digital numbers, she found a comfortable walking speed.
Leya watched Steven walk in and step on the treadmill closest to the door. Wanting to impress him, she tapped on the speed-up button until she ran. Very soon, she yelled, "Help!"
Steven rushed to her and pressed a button slowing it to a walk. "What are you doing?"
"I thought I ...." She paused to catch her breath.
"You're new at this, aren't you?"
"I got bored in my room and decided to try it." She studied her hands. "I don't know what I'm doing."
"I can help, if you want?" He grinned trying to conceal his laugh.
"I'd like that."
"Walk, and I mean walk on the treadmill until I'm finished with my run, then we'll lift weights."
She nodded. What weightlifting can I do?
*****
After Steven completed a five-mile run, he motioned for Leya to follow him. He wiped the sweat from his face with a towel. "After I get a drink, we'll start."
Returning with two bottles of water, he handed one to her. Unscrewing the lid, he drank the majority of the water. "I needed that. Let's get started." Picking up a ten-pound medicine ball, he tossed it to her.
She jumped back and the ball fell to the floor and rolled away.
He picked up the ball, walked to Leya, took her hands, and placed them around the ball. "It won't hurt you. We'll play catch with it."
"She catches like a girl," teased Jim as he ran on a treadmill.
The other four men working in the gym laughed and shared comments.
Leya's face and body turned crimson.
"Toss it to me," he said walking away from her. "Don't let the guys get to you. They tease everybody. It's when they don't tease that you need to worry."
"So being laughed at is a good thing?" She tossed the ball to Steven.
"When you live in a house full of men, yes, it's a good thing. It means you're accepted."
They tossed the medicine ball back and forth twelve times before switching to the lat-pull down machine. Steven introduced Leya to all the weight machines, before they left the room together.
Standing at the bottom of the stairs, Steven watched Leya step up the first two, before he said, "The marriage certificate is supposed to be ready in the morning. Would you like to go to town and mail it or do you want one of the men to take care of it for you?"
"I can go?" She faced him from the top step.
"I thought you'd like to go on a fieldtrip," he teased.
"I'd like that, thank you for asking." She closed the door to her room.
Steven stood at the bottom of the stairs and stared at the closed door. "She's definitely one beautiful, but dangerous woman." He grinned as he added, "Maybe she's not that bad."
| Author Notes | Thank you for your continued support. I appreciate the reviews and comments. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER FOUR
Steven put the key inside his pocket as he heard the phone ring. He unlocked the door, ran inside, and lifted the receiver. "I was afraid you'd already left."
"Matt, what do you need?" Steven asked recognizing the voice. "We were on our way to the landing pad."
"Dani says she needs to see you right away. Can you come by the house on your way to get the marriage license?"
"We'll be there in fifteen minutes." He paused, before he continued, "I have the entire team with me. Did Dani say what she wanted?"
"Of course not," Matt teased before hanging up.
*****
As Steven helped Leya into the helicopter, she stared into his eyes. "I never met anyone with green eyes before. They're intriguing."
"Really?" The compliment surprised him, but decided he liked it.
Her cheeks flushed pink as she nodded.
"Where we headed?" the pilot interrupted.
"Matt's house." Steven rubbed the back of his neck and glanced at the men sitting in the copter. "The last minute phone call was from Matt. Dani has requested we stop by. Who knows why?" Steven took a deep breath and released it slowly.
*****
Steven stepped off the helicopter and noticed Matt and Dani standing beside the landing pad. "Hi, Matt." He glared at Dani. "What's so urgent we're needed at your house?"
"Don't you want to see Emily?" Dani's eyes twinkled.
"Of course we do, but that's not the reason you wanted to see us, is it?"
Before Dani could answer, Steven glanced around the area. "Where's Drew?" He knew Drew was normally beside his mother.
"My mother and George took him to the zoo." Dani released a deep breath. "You and Leya need a wedding photo in the newspaper. Your marriage needs to appear real. Hector will probably stay in town until the hospital dismisses his aunt. That may take months."
"I doubt he reads the wedding section. Not many men do." Steven shoved up the sleeves of his shirt. Glancing toward Matt, Steven continued, "I go on undercover operations. I shouldn't be exposed to the media."
Matt's arm went around Dani's waist. "Steven's right. There's a potential breech of security. Only Leya's photo will be taken for the newspaper."
After watching Emily sleep, Dani led Leya to a spare bedroom where a wedding gown lay across the bed. Dani smiled as tears welled in Leya's eyes.
******
"I'll be right back." Matt walked away, then returned carrying a file. "Hector left for Colombia yesterday." A grin erupted across his lips. "Think Dani knows something I don't? Anyway, I sent Eric to Bogota' to see how Hector Vegas and Carlos Martinez respond to the news of Leya's marriage. I want Michael to backup Eric but won't have anyone to replace him until Saturday." Matt thumbed through the file.
"That won't be a problem. I can release him this afternoon, if needed." Steven glanced at Matt, then asked, "Did you say Hector's in Colombia?"
"He left town yesterday." Matt grinned, then thought for a few moments. "Michael can fly to Colombia Friday. That'll be soon enough."
"Do you know who's replacing him?"
"I'm not sure. Someone has requested your team, but my gut tells me it's a mistake."
"Whatever you decide will be fine."
*****
When the photographer arrived, Matt led him into the formal living room, as Leya and Dani walked down the stairs.
Steven's gaze went to Leya. She's beautiful in that gown. Her long, black hair shines against the white gown. Man, those sparkling eyes get to me every time. His body reacted.
"Leya, here's a wedding ring. Put it on for the photo." Joe held it out for her.
"No! Steven needs to put it on her finger." Dani reached across Leya and grabbed it.
"This is a mock marriage. It means nothing, remember?" Joe glared at Dani.
"I know, but ...." Dani's hands were on her hips.
"So we can get this over with," Steven interrupted. He took the ring from Dani, lifted Leya's left hand, and slid it on her finger. "You're a beautiful bride." Their eyes met and silence filled the room as their gaze lingered.
Matt cleared his throat.
"Thank you." Leya hesitated. "I had nothing to do with any of this."
"I know. We're use to Dani's stunts. Just don't take lessons, all right?" Steven glanced at Dani and shook his head.
After the photographer took several photos of Leya, he said, "I promise the picture will be in Friday's newspaper." He glanced toward Leya. "Would you like to order some prints?"
Leya chewed on her lower lip.
"We'll be happy to look at the proofs," Steven said watching for Leya's reaction.
*****
Waiting for Leya to change, Steven said to Dani, "No matter how hard you try, this marriage will be annulled and I will remain a bachelor."
"I don't know what you're talking about," she said handing him a wedding ring. "You need to wear this. You can't afford being seen by the wrong people."
Not willing to argue, he put it on his left ring finger; experience had taught him he would lose, anyway.
After lunch, Matt and Dani walked Steven, Leya, Michael, and Bob to the landing pad.
| Author Notes | I know there's not much action in this post, but it is setting the scene for later action. Please be patient. Thank you for your reviews and you continued support. |
By barbara.wilkey
"Can we stop by Task Force?" Michael asked, as they entered the city. "I need to make sure my paperwork is in order before I leave for Colombia."
"Not a problem." Steven took the exit leading to the Task Force building.
As Steven signaled to turn into the parking lot, Leya shouted, "Keep driving!"
Steven glanced at her but continued driving. Something's wrong. I wonder what has her upset. He drove a mile down the street before he stopped the car and glared at Leya. "What was that about?"
"The man standing beside the dark green van was Paco Martinez, Carlos's younger brother."
"Are you sure?"
"Of course, I'm sure." She wrung her hands.
"Damn!" Steven thought a moment. "Michael and Bob will drop us at the Court House. We'll get copies of the marriage certificate and mail them. Michael and Bob can do what they need to do at Task Force and then come get us."
At the post office, Steven and Leya made sure the certificates would arrive in Bogota' the following day. The first certificate needed to be signed for by Hector Vegas and the second by Carlos Martinez.
Steven wasn't sure why he got a third copy, but folded it and put it in his pocket.
As Steven took out his billfold to pay the clerk, he noticed Leya chewing on her lower lip. She's upset. Could she've changed her mind? He took the certificates from the clerk's hand and led Leya outside.
"Are you positive you want to do this?" He scanned the area, avoiding eye contact. "We can annul the marriage today and put you on the next plane for Colombia."
"No!" She turned her back to him. "My father will attempt to kill you. I don't know what Carlos will do, but he'll do something." She stared at the ground. "I'm worried about you."
Steven turned her so she faced him. He searched into her deep brown eyes and brushed a black curl from her cheek.
"Your family has been trying to kill me for five years. That's nothing new."
He felt like taking her in his arms and comforting her, but feared it. I need to be careful. She has a power over me that I don't understand. It could be more dangerous than any drug cartel. Steven took a deep breath. "As for marrying you, I thought it over very carefully before I agreed to it. I knew exactly what I was doing." He sighed taking her arm. "Let's get this in today's mail."
Leya watched the clerk put the envelopes on a stack with other mail.
"You all right?" Steven touched her arm.
"Yes. I'm afraid of what might happen next." She paused. "I'm ready to go to the safe house."
"There's a coffee shop across the street. We'll wait in there until Michael and Bob return."
Before they crossed the street, Michael and Bob parked the car.
On the way to the car, Bob pulled Steven aside. "There's a small army looking for Leya."
"Do we know who the army belongs to?" Steven asked, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Both the Vegas and the Martinez Cartels are well represented."
Steven prayed this would be their last trip to town.
*****
When Steven glanced over his shoulder, Leya was leaning against the frame of the doorway. "Hi. How long have you been there?" he asked grinning, as he stirred a large pot of spaghetti sauce.
"A few minutes. You can cook?" Her eyes widened.
"We're on a rotating schedule and tonight's my turn. We learned to cook out of necessity. We like to eat," he teased.
"Am I on that schedule?"
"No, you're our guest."
"Is that what you call it?" She laughed and leaned her elbows on the counter.
"Yeah!" He chuckled before asking, "Do you need something, or would you like to help?"
"I'd like to help, if you don't mind? I get lonely in my room."
"Okay. Why don't you chop tomatoes for the salad?"
When Steven saw Leya pick up the knife and a tomato, he placed his hand over hers. He felt an overwhelming energy pass between them. How long can I ignore the electricity between us? "Careful, if you slice the tomato like that you'll cut yourself." As he tried to ignore his feelings, he concentrated on the tomato. "You're not used to kitchen duty, are you?"
"We had servants. I've never done kitchen work before."
"I'll teach you." With his hand still covering hers, he showed her how to chop a tomato. When he felt she wouldn't cut herself, he moved his hand.
Waiting for the spaghetti to drain, Steven watched Leya finish the salad.
He grinned at her cute, little, round bottom in the low-cut jeans, and the near too small, yellow blouse. "It's none of my business, but I don't understand why you dress provocatively." He stared at the top wings of the butterfly tattoo.
"You mean, why do I dress like a whore when I'm a virgin?" She turned toward him.
"That's not exactly what I meant, but yeah, why?" His eyes widened at her bluntness.
"I'm a Drug Lord Princess, remember? Besides, most young women dress like me."
"Not all young women dress like that." He hesitated, before he continued, "How long have you had the butterfly tattoo?"
"You've noticed." She turned her back to him and scooted her jeans lower down her hips. "It's not real, see?"
"It looks real. Are you sure?" Steven inspected the tattoo.
"Yes, I hate needles. Would you peel it off? I'm sure it's fading."
Steven touched the right tip of the butterfly wing, then scratched a corner loose before he peeled it.
"There's no way you put this on yourself. Who got close enough to put it on you?"
Her eyes sparkled as she turned toward him. "I had a personal maid. She put it on me. Would you like to put on the next one?"
"I think dinner's ready." He called the men, "Soups on!"
After dinner, Leya went to her room.
Steven didn't see her the rest of the evening and wondered why, but decided it was for the best. He sat at his desk and thought about their chemistry, her adorable little rear-end, and her offer to let him replace the butterfly tattoo.
*****
Unmistakable tension filled the air the following day, as they waited to see how Hector Vegas would react to the news of Leya's marriage.
As Steven got ready for bed that evening, he answered the phone and listened.
"Eric found Jacinda Vegas, Leya's mother, beaten, possibly raped, and dumped beside the road outside the Vegas hacienda." Matt's voice was quiet, but harsh. "I sent a Task Force jet to get her and bring her to our hospital. She should arrive early in the morning."
"Leya and I will be at the hospital first thing in the morning. This is only the beginning, isn't it?" He rubbed the back of his neck, fully understanding the severity of what lay ahead of them.
*****
After a restless night, Steven knocked on Leya's door. When she answered, Steven noticed the light blue lace nightgown, before she pulled the robe around her body. After a gulp, he repeated the information Matt had given him.
Tears welled in Leya's eyes and spilled down her cheeks.
"Would you like to go to the hospital?" he asked.
"I'll be ready in ten minutes," she said, shoving him out the door.
Steven went to his office and waited. He sighed as he stared at their marriage certificate.
When Steven helped Leya into the helicopter, he noticed her hand trembling and held it. When their eyes met, hers seemed to say thank you. Steven wasn't certain if he was being thanked for taking her to her mother or holding her hand, but decided it didn't matter.
*****
When they reached the hospital, Matt stood beside the main entrance. "Senora Vegas has been examined and her broken arm is being set."
Steven put his arm around Leya's waist. "Your mother will be fine."
"I wish I could buy her flowers." Leya glanced at the gift shop.
"Get whatever your mother would like." Steven handed her his billfold.
Leya returned with a vase of mixed spring flowers, as the doctor said Senora Vegas was ready for visitors.
"Leya, would you like to speak with your mom in private?"
After she nodded, Steven and Matt went to get coffee, but posted Derek and Jim outside Senora Vegas' room.
*****
"Why aren't you outside Senora Vegas's room? You're supposed to guard the ladies," Matt asked, as Derek and Jim walked up to them.
"A nurse sent Leya away, so we decided to get a cup of coffee. We thought Leya was with you," said Jim.
"Never leave Leya or her mother for any reason," Matt snapped. He sighed and muttered under his breath, "Rookies!"
Matt and Steven went into Senora Vegas' room and questioned her about the conversation she had with her daughter.
"General Patterson, Leya asked if her marriage caused Hector to ...," she said with a heavy Hispanic accent. She paused while she used a tissue to wipe tears from her cheeks. "I tried not to answer, but she insisted. Yes, her father did this because of the news of her marriage."
"Leya went to Colombia." Matt glared at Steven.
"Why would she do that?"
"She's going to confront her father. Dani and I've been married for over three years and that's exactly what she'd do. What I can't figure out is how she'd get to Colombia. Dani had access to money, Leya doesn't."
Steven felt the back pocket of his jeans. "I gave Leya my billfold for her mother's flowers. She has everything she needs."
"You're still a newlywed. Lesson number one; never give your wife your billfold. You'll never get it back." Matt shook his head, as he dialed his cell phone.
"Leya's flight left fifteen minutes ago. She used the name Mrs. Leya Albright." He replaced the phone on the belt clip.
Steven, Matt, Jim, Derek, Michael, and Bob boarded the Task Force jet headed for Bogota', Colombia.
| Author Notes | Thank you for the requests to hear more about Leya and Steven. I should be back to regular posts again. I appreciate your time to read and write reviews. |
By barbara.wilkey
Matt and Steven stepped off the jet. They reviewed the surveillance information they received from satellite images forwarded to them during the flight.
Michael noticed the car Eric, an undercover Task Force agent, had waiting for them in the airport parking lot. "I'll drive."
With a cell phone, Matt called Eric for directions to Hector Vegas' hacienda nestled below the Andes Mountains near Bogota'.
"There's an electric fence surrounding the Vegas hacienda," Eric said. "It has one entrance and two men guard it. Cameras sit on top of each fence post surveying the area. They rotate every ten minutes, so there's a small window to enter."
Still talking with Eric, Matt stared out the window. When the car stopped, he asked, "How many men does Hector keep around the hacienda?"
"I've seen two at the front door and two out back. I don't know how many inside."
Matt sighed as he clipped the phone to his belt.
The six men crept closer to the front gate but stayed hidden. Their eyes scanned the area.
"Any idea how we're getting inside without being seen?" Derek asked.
"Now's a good time to offer suggestions," Matt said as he lifted his hat, scratched his head, and then replaced it.
"I suggest we storm the front door. We can't waste time. If Vegas hasn't killed Leya, he will," Steven said, as he leaned against a pine tree and stared at the hacienda.
Matt glanced toward Steven. "We need a diversion. Any ideas?"
As the men swiped at mosquitoes and stared at the hacienda, a car and a pick-up truck collided while trying to avoid a herd of cattle crossing the dirt road. The truck tipped over and crates of chickens spilled. Chickens squawked and scattered everywhere. Frightened cattle ran in every direction.
"Our diversion." Matt grinned, as the guards opened the gate to investigate the commotion.
After waiting, the team watched the guards move closer to the intersection to get a better view of the accident. When the camera faced away from them, the men entered cautiously through the front gate.
Using pine trees for cover and their assault weapons readied, they crept to the house. A guard stood on the front sidewalk, stretching his neck as he tried to see the accident.
Matt motioned for Jim to circle to the left of the guard. Jim waited for the guard to move farther from the house. When he did, Jim subdued him.
The team members stared at the front steps of the hacienda. They all took deep breaths and wondered what waited for them inside the mansion.
Steven took two stairs at once as he ran up the porch steps.
The men followed.
Matt stood beside Steven, grabbed his shoulder, and whispered an order, "Act like a team chief, not a rookie."
Matt peeked through a large windowpane beside the door and saw three servants walk through the foyer. He faced the men, pointed to his eyes, and then held up three fingers.
The well-trained men followed Matt's lead as they entered the hacienda. Effortlessly and silently, they corralled the servants.
Jim and Derek remained with the servants and watched for additional people. Matt and Steven led the rest of the team down a long hall.
At the end of the hall, they heard a man's voice yell, then a woman's voice.
Following the voices, they rushed in as Vegas placed a hard slap to the left side of Leya's face; she lost her balance and almost stumbled to the floor.
Before Hector could react, the team surrounded him.
"Haz traido estos gringos en mi casa?" (You brought these men into my home?) His hardened black eyes glared at his daughter.
Leya's eyebrows arched and she didn't respond.
"Steven, get your wife," ordered Matt.
Keeping his weapon aimed at Hector, Steven took Leya's arm. Once Leya was safely behind the line of men, he kissed her cheek. "You hurt?"
"I'm fine." She rubbed the sting her father had left on her cheek.
"We'll talk later," he interrupted then glanced at Matt. "We're ready."
"Tell your son he'll pay for kidnapping my daughter. I suspect you're running cocaine and heroin into my territory. When I have proof, I'll return," Matt said.
"For now, we only came for Leya. She and her mother are under my protection. They are free to leave whenever they want. My advice to you, leave them alone." Matt's steel-blue eyes shot daggers at Vegas.
Matt nodded for the men to leave. Steven held Leya's arm and they walked in-between the men for security.
Later, the men stood at the rear of the jet and compared notes about what they saw at the hacienda; surprised no one expected them.
Matt patted Steven on the back. "Your wife needs you. Go to her." He leaned his head toward where she sat.
"I'm sorry you're hurt." Steven knelt in front of her and caressed her bruised cheek. "Why'd you confront your father by yourself?"
"I'm sorry." She handed him his billfold. "I used your credit card. I'll pay you back as soon as I can."
"I'm not worried about the money. I am worried about you. Would you please answer my question?"
"I grew up convincing myself my parents were in love. I knew they had problems, but...." She stopped as tears rolled down her cheeks. "I guess I read too many romance novels." She turned from him.
Steven sat beside her, dried the tears with his thumb, before he put his arms around her.
"If he loved her, he wouldn't have ordered his men to beat her." She cuddled against his chest and wept.
"Because he assumed I'm not a virgin any longer, he ordered three men to rape my mother; his wife."
Steven held her, desiring to stop her pain.
When the plane landed, he stood and helped Leya to her feet.
"Thank you," she said, her cheeks stained with tears.
As they walked through the airport, Leya stopped, and stared at Steven. "I knew my father would take his anger out on you and me, but I never thought he would take revenge against my mother."
"I know." He drew her closer and held her. "I'm here whenever you need me."
"I need you now, please take me to the hospital to see my mother."
At the hospital, Matt and Steven talked with the doctor and decided Senora Vegas would spend the night for observation. Tomorrow she'd move into Matt's home. He already had a live-in nurse on staff because of Emily. Since Silea, his mother-in-law, lived with him and Dani, Senora Vegas would also have someone close to her age.
After an hour, Steven told Leya they needed to return to the safe house. As they left, Matt reminded Steven the new agent would arrive in the morning.
When they arrived at the safe house, Steven and Leya went to their separate rooms. Steven awoke from a restless sleep, as someone crawled beside him.
"I need to be held," said the soft whisper of a female voice.
Surprised by a female body in his bed, Steven rolled over and felt her sweat pants and T-shirt against him. He embraced her, smelling the floral scent of her hair, as he fell asleep.
When he woke the following morning, Leya had left. A note lay where she had slept.
Thank you for holding me.
| Author Notes | Thank you for reading. I appreciate all your support and review. |
By barbara.wilkey
The following morning, Leya answered the knock on her door wearing tight, low rise, black slacks and a pink, lace corset blouse.
Steven's eyes concentrated on her cleavage, and he forgot what he came to tell her.
The sound of a helicopter broke his concentration. "Derek, meet the new agent at the landing pad," he yelled downstairs.
"I know you're here to yell at me about last night." Her eyes stared at the doorknob. "I'm sorry. It won't happen again."
"I came to ask if you wanted to call your mom." He ran his hand through his short hair. "Don't worry about last night. I understand." He couldn't understand why viewing that much breast caused desires within his loins.
"Can I really call my mom?"
"Yes, she's already moved into Matt's house. I have a secure line in my office. You can use it." He held his hand out for her, and then pulled it back to his side. I can't touch that woman. I'm uncomfortable just walking beside her.
In his office, he dialed and then handed her the receiver. "Both lines are secure. I'll be in the hall. I need to meet our new team member."
*****
"Steven Albright," a familiar female voice yelled. Two arms embraced his neck, and a kiss planted on his lips.
The shock wore off, as he recognized the female voice. He returned the hug, equally happy, but didn't return the kiss.
"Peggy, you're my new agent?" He wondered if she was the agent who had requested his team.
*****
When Leya finished talking with her mother, she opened the door in time to witness a woman's arms around Steven's neck. Who is she? What is her relationship with Steven? They obviously know each other extremely well.
Peggy Martin's eyes scanned Leya from head to toe. "You must be Ramon Vegas's granddaughter?"
Leya nodded, as Steven introduced the ladies. After the introductions, Peggy glared at Steven. "I see you've eased up on the Task Force dress code."
"Slightly, but we still need to look professional." He glanced down at his jeans.
Peggy opened her duffel bag. "Leya, a box of your things was thrown outside Task Force 385 last evening. Matt asked me to bring them to you."
She lifted a black lace camisole and a pink sheer bra with matching thong panties. "I'm sure you don't want the men to see these things." Peggy leaned to hand them to Leya.
As tears welled in her eyes, Leya took the clothes.
"There are a few more things." Peggy reached inside the bag.
Steven stepped beside Peggy. "Why don't you bring them to Leya's room after you've unpacked?"
"That's probably a good idea. Leya, I'll bring the rest of your things later. I'm sorry I embarrassed you in front of the men." She zipped the bag and lifted it. "If you're embarrassed by them maybe you shouldn't wear them."
Leya held the clothing close to her body and ran up the stairs. As she ran, she dropped a pair of pink thong panties.
Steven engulfed them with his hand and followed her.
As she turned to close the door, Steven stood in the doorway.
He placed the panties on top of the dresser. "You dropped these on the stairs. I'm sorry the team saw some of your personal belongings." He shoved his sleeves higher on his forearm. "I know it had to be embarrassing. I'm not sure why Peggy didn't wait until you were alone to give them to you. She probably didn't think about it. I'll speak with her and let her know it was unacceptable."
"She did it because she's in love with you and jealous I'm here. She sees me as a threat."
He shook his head. "That's impossible. I've known Peggy for ...," he paused a second, then continued, "twelve years. We met as freshmen at West Point. She's one of the guys, but nothing more."
"You always greet guys with hugs and kisses?" Her eyebrows arched.
"No, but we're only friends, that's all." He, again, hesitated a few seconds. "I'll speak with her, just in case."
*****
After Steven left Leya's room, he went to Peggy's room and stood in her open door.
She glanced up from unpacking. "Maybe you should knock before entering my room. Did you forget I'm a woman?"
But you're one of the guys. He glanced back at the door. "I guess you're right. The door was open and I didn't think about it." He released a deep breath. "Please give the rest of Leya's things back in private."
"So Ms. Vegas lodged a complaint?"
"She didn't ask me to speak with you, if that's what you mean." He glanced at Peggy's clothes. "You're supposed to dress professionally. You know the dress code."
She placed her hands on the waistband of the tight low-rise blue jeans. "I thought since we're only guarding Ms. Vegas I could slack a little. You are, and so is the rest of the team."
"Yes, we're dressing down, but we still need to look professional." He adjusted his blue collar. "If you can't find something more appropriate to wear, I'll have the men go back to dress slacks, shirts, and ties." He turned to leave.
"You allow Ms. Vegas to wear whatever she feels like. What's wrong with my halter-top?"
Before she continued, Steven turned toward her and interrupted, "She's not an employee of Task Force 385. I have no control over her dress. I am your supervisor and I do have control over what you wear." He took a step toward her. "If you have problems with this arrangement, Matt can replace you." Angry he needed to have this conversation with Peggy, he left the room.
She called after him, "Why are you defending her?"
That comment angered him. "I'm not defending her. She's here for our protection. You're here to protect her, so act like it." He went into his office and closed the door.
| Author Notes | Thank you for your review. I appreciate the continued support I get from the Fanstory memebers. |
By barbara.wilkey
Inside his office, Steven stood and stared out the window. Leya thinks Peggy has feelings for me. Peggy knows we're only friends. She's one of the guys. Her behavior today suggests she has entertained the idea that our relationship should go farther.
I wonder if Peggy's right, am I defending Leya? If so, why? When she crawled into my bed last night, it felt like she belonged there. Steven shoved his hands in the pockets of his jeans.
I better make sure Peggy understands we could never be more than good friends.
Before talking with Peggy, Steven stepped onto the back porch to get some fresh air. As he sat on the steps, he heard a noise coming from the back right corner of the house. He chambered a round of his Sig-Sauer 9mm, as he peeked around the corner. There he saw Leya sitting on a log playing with a small orange kitten.
He released a loud sigh and placed the gun in his shoulder holster. "What are you doing outside alone, and how did you sneak in a kitten?"
With eyes wide, she gulped. "Did you almost shoot me?"
"Not really, but I was prepared to shoot whoever was out here." He sat beside her. "Will you answer my question? What are you doing outside?"
"I heard crying and came out to see what it was. It's a starving kitten." She held up the kitten. "He's only a few months old. I think his mother is lost." She looked at the bowl of milk and lunchmeat on the ground. "I gave him some food. I hope it's all right." She stroked the kitten's ears.
He grinned. "It's fine, but we're not set up for a kitten, and you shouldn't be outside by yourself. Next time you open that door," he pointed toward the back door, "have one of us with you, all right?"
She nodded. "Can I keep the kitten? I'll find a warm place for him to sleep outside. I'll feed him so no one will have to take care of him."
"I see no harm in it, but when you're outside, make sure somebody's with you."
She leaned her head against his arm. "You're out here."
He grinned as he put his arm around her shoulders. "You can stay, but only for a few minutes. I have something that needs my immediate attention." He gave her shoulder a squeeze.
After a short time, Leya gave a loud sigh.
When he glanced at her and saw moisture welling in her eyes. He didn't know what to say so picked up a handful of small pebbles and tossed them one at a time toward the ground.
"It's my fault Mother was beaten," she blurted, hugging the kitten close to her chest.
Steven stared in her eyes. "I don't see how you could've known your dad would take revenge against your mom."
"I was born a Vegas. After I helped General Patterson get Emily back, I married you, so I wouldn't have to marry Carlos. Maybe I should've conformed to what my family expected." She thought a few seconds. "Geoff was probably attacked because of me."
Steven took the kitten from her and set him on the ground before he put his arms around her and guided her head to his chest. "I don't have any answers but I do know helping Matt get Emily back was the right thing to do. As for us getting married, only you know if we did the right thing."
Peggy walked out the back door and saw Steven's arms around Leya. "Excuse me." She stood in front of them. "Steven, you're needed on the phone."
Steven didn't want to leave Leya, but knew he didn't have a choice. He glanced toward Peggy. "Would you stay with her until she's ready to come in?"
"Yeah, sure," she snapped as she glared at Leya. After following Steven to the door, she said, "And you're not defending her, right?"
Steven ignored her and shut the door.
*****
"Steven's a sucker for a helpless female but he's intelligent. He'll soon catch on to your tricks." Peggy stood in front of Leya with her hands on her hips.
Leya opened her mouth, but closed it and walked toward the door.
On her way inside, Leya decided to help discover who attacked Geoff and stopped by his room.
Geoff rubbed the back of his neck. "I've told you everything. I'm guessing the Martinez Cartel somehow got the information through our cell phones."
"I was hoping you remembered something else. Maybe working together, we could figure out how they got the information. I'll think about it. Maybe something will come to mind." Leya closed the door as she left.
As she walked by Steven's office, she noticed it was vacant and stepped inside hoping to find information that would lead her to some answers.
She searched Steven's desktop and discovered Task Force 385 used the same cell phone company as her great aunt, Maria Vegas. Maria had helped her brother get a cell phone and he was good friends with Carlos's younger brother.
While waiting for an Internet site she wanted to download, her arm knocked a sealed file to the floor. She bent down to pick it up.
Peggy grabbed the file from her hand and yelled, "Steven, I found your mole."
| Author Notes | Again, I want to thank all my Fanstory supporters. You are wonderful and I appreciate all your review. |
By barbara.wilkey
As Leya stood, Peggy grabbed the file from her hand and yelled, "Steven, I found your mole."
Steven barged into his office.
Peggy handed the sealed file to Steven. "I caught her reading this."
He listened as his eyes focused on Leya. A gripping pain filled his gut. No. It can't be. Not after everything her family put her through.
When Peggy finished, Leya stared at Steven. "Please, let me explain." She gulped, before she continued, "I was trying to help. I wanted to find out how the Martinez Cartel discovered Geoff worked for the Task Force."
She exhaled slowly. "I did discover a connection with the cell phone company. Great aunt Maria and the Task Force use the same company. She helped my brother get a cell phone and he's friends with Carlos' younger brother."
Peggy glared at Leya. "That doesn't make sense. I'll escort her upstairs." As she grabbed Leya's arm, she glared at Steven. "That will give you time to decide what you want to do with her."
Leya jerked her arm loose, as Steven snapped, "Go to your room."
*****
Steven went to his office and closed the door. I need to look objectively at Leya. Could she be working for her father? If so, what about her mother being beaten? Maybe instead of her father, she's working for Carlos Martinez. She was engaged to marry him. Was that even true?
She did try to seduce me, and on more than one occasion. What's the best way to protect my team? How can I protect myself from this woman?
After dinner, Steven held a team meeting. "Leya's younger brother uses the same cell phone company as we do and he's friends with Carlos Martinez's younger brother. It's a stretch, but could be our link."
Peggy had her hands on her hips. "We already know the security breaches are linked to Leya."
Jim rubbed the back of his neck. "There's no way Leya could've told anyone Geoff worked for Task Force 385. She didn't know anything about Geoff."
*****
When Leya opened her door to go downstairs for dinner, she saw Jim standing guard.
He stepped toward her. "You need to stay in your room."
"What about dinner?"
"Your meals will be brought to you."
"May I speak with Steven?"
"I'll relay the message," he said.
After closing the door, she wondered if she would ever leave her room again.
Leya's dinner arrived a few minutes later. "Jim, did you tell Steven I needed to speak with him?"
Jim nodded. "I gave him the message."
After she closed the door, she leaned against it. I guess Steven doesn't want to speak with me. She took a deep breath. My kitten's freezing and starving in the backyard. He's dependant on me to feed him. She opened the door and darted downstairs.
Jim ran after her. "Leya, stop!"
Steven and Peggy stepped out of his office.
Peggy positioned herself in such a way so she could catch Leya at the bottom of the stairs. "You wouldn't be trying to escape, would you?"
Leya sighed. "No, but I do need to feed my kitten." Her eyes met Steven's. "I asked to speak with you, but my request was ignored. My kitten's cold and hungry. After I feed him, I'll go back to my room."
Steven hesitated. "Jim, go with her." He went in his office slamming the door behind him.
Leya went to the kitchen, got a bowl of milk and some leftover chicken from dinner. When she opened the back door, the kitten purred as he rubbed between her ankles.
Jim grinned. "There really is a kitten."
"Yes, there really is a kitten." After taking a deep breath, she almost whispered, "And I'm not lying about why I was in Steven's office, either. I just wanted to help." She sat on the step and scratched the kitten between his ears, then glanced toward the door. "Peggy sees me as a threat."
"Steven and Peggy go way back. I think they met at the academy."
As she nodded in acknowledgement, Steven opened the door. "Jim, I'll take over."
After Jim went inside the house, Steven sat on the step beside Leya.
Leya broke the silence. "Thank you for letting me feed the kitten."
Steven nodded.
"May I call my mother in the morning? I need to make sure she's doing all right."
"Yes." He scanned the area and then released a deep breath. "I like you, but I don't trust you. Too many things have happened that can't be a coincidence."
"Did Geoff tell you I spoke with him trying to find some way to help?"
"Yes, he confirmed what you said." He ran his fingers through his short auburn hair. "I don't want to believe you're giving your family information, but there doesn't seem to be any other answer."
He picked up a few pebbles and tossed them one at a time. "I can't help remembering when we first met you stated your name as Leya Maria Santiago Vegas with great pride. Not like someone who was afraid or embarrassed by her family's heritage."
"You're correct, I did." She paused to get her thoughts together before she continued, "I know what my family does is disgraceful. My younger brother did a horrible thing by kidnapping General Patterson's infant. Can you imagine how you'd feel if your father had your mother beaten and raped?"
He tossed a few more pebbles, before he glanced at her. "I can't begin to imagine how something like that would feel."
"In my country, my family had power and was well respected, especially when my grandfather ran the family."
She picked up the kitten and cuddled it. "I knew someone needed to come forward and protect the baby. I felt disgraced by my family's values. Being called Missy was the final degradation. I struck back with the only thing I could think of. Looking back now, it seems foolish."
Hanging her head, she added, "Especially since I lowered my own principles and tried to seduce you."
She chewed on her lower lip. "Every time I think about wearing that red ...," she drew the kitten closer to her chin and whispered, "that outfit, knowing you were coming to talk with me. I ...." She fell silent.
After her emotions were under control, she said, "I threw that outfit in the garbage. I know you must think horrible things about me."
Steven took her hand in his. "Not really." He caressed her hand with his thumb.
"Today I tried to redeem myself. I wanted to use the computer to see if I could find any connections between the drug cartels and the Task Force. When I turned on the computer, I accidentally bumped that file. All I'm guilty of is bending down to pick it up. I didn't open the file, let alone read it. Is there any way I can convince you?"
"Steven, Bob and Derek are ready to toss her room." Peggy stood on the back porch. "She must have a cell phone or some other way to communicate with her family."
Leya stared at Steven.
He answered her look. "I didn't order another search." He glanced at Peggy standing with her arms folded across her chest. "Go ahead and search her room." With a sigh, he looked back at Leya. "I'm sorry, but we need to be positive."
| Author Notes | Again I want to thank all my supporters on FS. I appreciate the reviews. You're wonderful. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND INFORMATION LEADING TO THIS POST:
Because Leya is discovered by Peggy alone in Steven's office, she is restricted to her room. Later, Steven and Leya are outside talking while Leya feeds a stray cat. Peggy disrupts their discussions, with her own agenda.
"Steven, Bob and Derek are ready to toss her room." Peggy stood on the back porch. "She must have a cell phone or some other way to communicate with her family."
Leya turned toward Steven.
He responded to her stare. "I didn't order another search." He glanced at Peggy standing with her hands on her hips. "Go ahead and search her room." With a sigh, he glanced back at Leya. "I'm sorry, but we need to be positive."
"What about her?" Peggy interrupted. "She could have a cell phone hidden on her body."
"Before she entered the house, I searched her myself."
Peggy shifted her stance. "I'm sure you did and probably enjoyed it."
Steven brushed his hands through his short hair. "Go ahead. Take her to the bathroom and do the search." He offered his hand and helped Leya up from the step. "I'm sorry, but it won't be as humiliating with Peggy doing it." He glanced toward the ground and saw the bowl of milk. "I'll clean up from the kitten."
Peggy led Leya to the bathroom beside the kitchen. Through the closed door, Steven overheard Peggy say, "Remove your clothes. I'm doing a complete body search."
*****
When Bob and Derek walked into the kitchen, Steven asked, "Did you find any communication devices?"
"Nope, only clothes, shoes, books, and makeup." Bob sighed. "I don't know how she could possibly have so many clothes. She's only been here a few days."
Steven paced as he waited outside the bathroom door. Please don't have a cell phone.
When Peggy opened the door, she held up a piece of clear adhesive paper.
Steven noticed Leya pull her pink lace corselet over a sheer bra and ordered, "Shut the door." He closed his eyes as he composed himself. Peggy's right. Leya clouds my judgment. A glimpse of her body stirs desires I shouldn't have.
Peggy stood beside Steven and examined the piece of adhesive. "This could be used to attach a cell phone. I found it on her lower back. She had some story about it being part of a butterfly tattoo." Still studying it, she said, "Maybe she hid the cell phone outside with that cat."
Leya opened the bathroom door and stared at Steven.
He took the adhesive paper from Peggy, examined it, and then glanced toward Leya. "She's telling the truth. She had a fake butterfly tattoo on her lower back and I removed it. This is part of that tattoo. Did you find anything else?"
Peggy grabbed Leya's arm and dragged her toward her room. "Don't leave your room," she yelled, slamming the door to reinforce her point.
*****
Steven went to his office and called Matt. After relaying Peggy's suspicions, he asked, "Could Leya get information to her family through her mother?"
"Senora Vegas wouldn't help her husband after the beating she took. As a precaution, we'll tape their telephone conversations."
Steven slumped in his chair. "Can Eric and Michael try to find out if the Vegas or Martinez Cartels received any information from Leya?"
Before ending the conversation, Matt asked, "Are your feelings for Leya under control?"
"What feelings for Leya?"
"You know what I'm taking about. You need them under control or you'll put her and your team in danger."
*****
After they hung up the telephone, Steven stared out the window. I'm not in love with Leya. I could never fall in love with a woman who lies and with a family tree full of criminals.
| Author Notes | I want to thank all my FS fans. I appreciate your continued support. Thank you. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
At the end of the last post Matt warned Steven, to get his feeling for Leya under control. Matt told him if he didn't, he would endanger Leya and the team. Steven, unable to sleep, wrestles with Matt's warning.
Steven tossed and turned until finally he sat on the edge of his bed. There's no way I can be in love with Leya. Yes, there's chemistry between us, but it's lust, not love. I know the difference. He watched the sun peek through the oak tree outside his bedroom window. As long as I don't look into her eyes, I can keep everything under control.
After a cup of coffee, he gained confidence. I'll take Leya breakfast and prove I don't have any feelings for her.
He walked upstairs. My desires are normal. Males lust after sensual women who choose to wear a bare minimum of clothes. It's only wrong if I respond and I will never act on those feelings.
Derek stood guard outside Leya's door. "She's awake. I heard movement inside."
Steven hesitated before knocking.
Leya answered the door wearing navy-blue sweat pants and an oversized gray T-shirt. She had tied her long, curly, black hair in a ponytail and she resembled 'the girl next door'.
Shocked, Steven blurted, "What happened? You look ...." He stopped before he said too much.
"I don't know if your reaction is an insult or a compliment." She smiled.
He held out the breakfast tray. "I'm sorry. I'm used to seeing you ...." Again, words failed him.
She took the tray and tilted her head. "Why don't you just say what's on your mind?"
He feared if he did he'd somehow, be in trouble. He paused, choosing his words. "You look like 'the girl next door'. I'm used to seeing you ... dressed up."
"Do you like this look or the 'dressed up' look?" She set the tray down.
Without thinking, he answered, "Depends."
"On what?" she interrupted Steven's hesitation. "I try to be honest with you. Why can't you be honest with me? I get strip searched when anyone on your team perceives I'm not being truthful."
He sat in a chair. "Ok, I'll be honest." Steven stretched his legs in front. "You usually dress sexy." He stared in her eyes. "And I enjoy looking at you. You exhibit confidence in your sexuality." He glanced toward the window, fearing he went too far.
"This morning you look comfortable." He faced her again. "Like someone I could enjoy cuddling beside and drinking hot cocoa with while watching a movie or a fire in a fireplace, maybe watching snow fall."
She put her finger to her lips as she thought out loud. "Doing any of those things might lead to sex."
Watching her and having this conversation ignited roaring flames within his loins. He released a deep breath in an attempt to regain control. "You're right. Both could lead to sex and with you probably would. You're a very sensual woman. But, sex between us will never happen."
"Under different circumstances, do you think we could ever have sex?"
Very uncomfortable with that question, he rubbed his chin. "Probably." He watched her every movement as she walked toward the window and stared out. I wonder what she's thinking.
When she turned around, she smiled. "I'd prefer to think we'd make love, not have sex."
He gulped. "You're probably right." Steven glanced at the tray that she'd set on a small round table. "When you finish eating, come to my office and call your mom."
"Should I come down as 'the girl next door' or ...?"
"Surprise me," he interrupted with a grin as he left her room.
| Author Notes | Again, I wish to thank everyone for reading my post. I appreciate your reviews. Thank you. |
By barbara.wilkey
Background:
Matt warned Steven that he needs to get control of his feelings for Leya. When Steven attempts to prove, to himself, there are no feelings, he has a discussion with Leya about how if circumstances were different, they could possibly make love. As Steven leaves, Leya asks, "Should I come down as 'the girl next door' or ...?"
"Surprise me." Was Steven's response.
Leya walked into Steven's office with Derek following behind. When she entered, Steven stepped from behind his desk and noticed her jeans were too tight and sat low on her hips.
He gulped, as his eyes slid up her bare stomach to the blue halter-top with a V-neckline that dipped below her breasts. A strand of black hair curled under her right breast. I wish my hand replaced that curl.
As his body reacted, he stepped back behind the desk. I wonder what keeps her breasts from slipping out. "Derek, Leya's calling her mom, so there's no reason for you to hang around, unless you want to."
"Think I'll get a cup of coffee. When she's ready to return to her room, I'll be in the kitchen."
Leya went behind Steven's desk and whispered, "This is the most conservative outfit I have that's clean."
As her warm breath grazed his ear and the scent of her floral perfume filled his nostrils, he almost lost complete control. His eyes revealed how badly he wanted that woman.
As Derek turned to leave, all Steven's voice would allow was a whisper, "Please shut the door."
Derek didn't hear Steven, so Leya turned toward the door. "I'll get it."
Her little round rear-end swayed, to the right, then to the left, then right, then left. Steven was almost hypnotized as he watched. After our conversation this morning, she knew how I would react. I'm putting a stop to this teasing.
When she turned from closing the door, Steven stood in front of her. He placed his hands, one on each side of her shoulders, and pressed her body against the door. "What do you want from me?" he asked gruffly.
"To call my mother." Her eyebrows rose.
"You know that's not what I meant." He waited for her to respond. When she didn't, he continued, "You pranced into my office, with ... ." He couldn't fight the desires and kissed her as he untied the halter-top.
When the straps fell, Leya raised her left hand to catch them and with her right hand slapped him across the left cheek.
He took two steps back as he rubbed his cheek. First, she teases, then slaps me. "What did you do that for?"
"You ... you ... what are you doing?" As her eyes narrowed and glared at him, her cheeks turned red.
He stepped backward half way across the room. Damn, I misread her intentions. "Fix your blouse." He paused, deciding to be straightforward. "I'm sorry. You're more sensual than normal and I thought you were trying to seduce me, again. I succumbed, momentarily."
"But I ... ." She stopped her reply as she retied her top. "Steven, this is all I have to wear. Peggy only brought my more suggestive outfits. I don't know what happened to my other clothes. Task Force wouldn't allow me to get any of my things. Everything I bought at the mall is in the laundry. In Colombia, I dressed like this because it was expected of me. I'm a Drug Lord Princess, thanks to my grandfather."
She turned away from him. "I never imagined I'd have to protect myself from you, especially after our talk."
He turned her around. "I'm sorry. You don't have to protect yourself from me." He gulped.
"You married me to protect me from marrying Carlos. You followed me to Colombia to make sure I was safe. When I was upset, you held me so I could sleep. I thought you understood." She glared into his eyes. "I can tell you don't believe I'm spying for my father. How could you think I'm trying to seduce you?"
"Because when we first met you tried to seduce me," he answered matter-of-factly, before he added, "During our conversation this morning, I admitted I've had less than honorable feelings toward you."
As she stepped back to gain composure, the straps to her halter-top fell, showing both breasts. She grabbed the straps, yanked them up, and ran from his office.
Steven ran after her, passing Derek and Jim. "Leya!" He caught her at the bottom step. "Come back to my office, we aren't finished." He held her free hand.
After Steven closed the door, Leya glanced at him. "I'm sorry. It was an accident. I guess I didn't tie them tight enough."
He put his arms around her. "I know." He released a deep breath. "Turn around." He tightly tied the straps. "They shouldn't come undone, but you may have problems getting them untied tonight."
"I'm going to my room. I'll come down later and call my mother." She turned to leave.
Steven blocked the door. "We have things we need to discuss. I don't want any more misunderstandings." As he stared in her eyes, he saw her fear. "Leya, what's wrong?"
When she turned away from him, he continued, "The past two days, we've been honest with each other. I want that to continue. What's really wrong?" He stepped in front of her and bent down to gaze into her eyes. "Leya?" He took her hand and led her to the couch. "Have a seat." He sat beside her and put his arm around her. "Now we can talk."
"I feel violated," she whispered.
"Violated?" Her choice of words surprised him. Her English is perfect. Maybe she doesn't have an accurate understanding of 'violated'. I definitely didn't violate her. "What do you mean? I don't understand."
She swallowed. "I know I dress provocatively but I'm in control of how much skin I expose. I told you that I'm a virgin, well, you're the first man to see my nip ..., all of my breasts, and I had no control over it."
He let out a deep breath. "I'm sorry, but this is the reason we need to understand exactly where we stand with each other. I don't want anything like this to happen again. This whole mess started because I believed you were trying to seduce me."
"I haven't tried to seduce you since we were married. I have no reason to."
Steven didn't like the conclusion he came to. When Leya tried to seduce me, it made me angry. Now she's not trying, and I can't concentrate on anything, but my feelings for her. Is Matt right?
"You're right, and I'm sorry. Will you forgive me?" When she nodded, Steven continued, "You don't have to protect yourself from me. I promise nothing like this will happen again. I'm having difficulty believing I reacted the way I did. I know you'll have problems believing this, but I acted out of character."
She swallowed hard before she said, "I believe you don't normally remove women's clothes without permission."
"Your body language says you aren't sure. Please tell me what you're thinking."
After a long pause, she said, "When you did your search, you weren't exactly a gentleman."
"And you weren't exactly acting like a lady. I was angry with you for attempting to seduce me." He wondered if he should continue and decided to, "You tried to seduce me the first time our eyes met at the hospital."
She stared at the floor. "I did. I've already explained how you were chosen. There's no reason to continue that discussion. And I've already explained why I stopped."
She glanced toward him. "I know you don't approve of my style of dress, but it's the only outfit I have clean."
Steven drew her closer. "I understand why you tried to seduce me and I understand why you dress the way you do."
After rubbing the back of his neck, he said, "The laundry room is in the basement. I guess I should've shared that piece of information with you. When you do laundry, take someone with you. It's my fault I didn't tell you where to find the washer and dryer."
He paused before he added, "Today proves I'm attracted to you." He gulped. "There's so much more to you than a sex object. I'm enjoying discovering the real Leya, not Leya Maria Santiago Vegas, the Drug Lord Princess."
"Thank you." She paused, before she added, "I do feel safe when you're around."
After lifting her chin, he looked into her eyes and said, "And you're right. I don't believe you've communicated information to your family."
He swallowed loudly. "As for your top falling, it happened so fast I didn't see anything. You haven't been violated." I just fibbed but the night she lowered her bra straps I got a full view of these perfectly shaped breasts. This morning's glimpse was an encore.
Leya put her arms around his neck and hugged him. "Thank you, but I'm not sure you're telling the truth."
He nuzzled her ear and whispered, "I'm telling the truth."
| Author Notes | Thank you for your continued support. I appreciate all reviews. I am on a two week Christmas, so hopefully I can post more often than once a week. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
Steven struggles with Leya's sensuality. His lapse in judgment causes the straps to Leya's halter-top to fall. Leya runs from Steven's office and Peggy witnesses Steven suggestion she return to his office.
Peggy stood outside Steven's office door and raised her hand to knock, then paused. Why was Leya holding the ties to her top and who untied them? Why did Steven stop her from going to her room? Why did he take her hand and lead her back the office? What haven't they finished? I need to find out what's going on in there.
******
Steven heard a knock. "Come in."
Peggy glared at his arms around Leya. "We need to examine her jewelry." Her head nodded toward Leya. "She may have a bug attached. Hand them over." She tapped her foot and held out her hand.
After Leya took off her earrings, necklace, and watch, she placed them in Peggy's outstretched hand.
When Leya didn't offer the rings, Peggy demanded, "Give me the wedding band. You're not really married, anyway."
Leya glanced toward Steven and gulped.
Steven knew Peggy had a valid point. Peggy's judgment is usually sound. If Leya is a spy, she could have listening devices attached to her jewelry. Steven nodded for Leya to hand over the wedding band.
After she handed it to Peggy, Peggy grabbed her right hand. "Give me this ring too."
Steven stared at Leya's pleading eyes, before he addressed Peggy, "Is taking that ring necessary?"
"The stone's large enough to hide a bug."
Leya whispered, "Steven, it's the only family heirloom I have. My great-grandmother gave it to my grandmother on her sixteenth birthday. My grandmother passed it to Mother, and my mother gave it to me. I've never removed it." She fingered the ring.
"While Leya calls her mother, I'll examine the ring. It won't leave the room." He touched Leya's hand. "As soon as I'm finished, I'll place it on your finger." He turned toward Peggy. "Will that satisfy you?"
Peggy sighed before she left the room carrying the jewelry.
After he dialed Matt's number, Leya put the emerald and diamond cluster heirloom in his hand. She turned her back to him as she spoke to her mother.
Steven took a magnifying glass from the center desk drawer and studied the detail on it. This has to be expensive. There's a full carat of diamond chips surrounding that large dark green emerald stone.
After Steven replaced the ring on her finger, Leya handed him the receiver and asked, "Are you satisfied I'm not bugging our conversations?"
The contempt in her voice made him feel guilty and he stared at the floor. "I had to make sure."
"May I feed the kitten?"
He nodded. "Yes, but take one of the men with you."
"Afraid I'm going to run away?" She placed her hands on her hips.
"No, but I am positive your family is searching for you, and if they find you, they'll harm you."
"I'll be outside with whomever I find first." She walked out the door, but stopped and glanced back at the ringing phone. "Maybe you should answer that."
Wanting to go after her, he instead picked up the receiver and discussed Peggy's latest suspicions of Leya with Matt. They agreed that suspecting Leya of bugging her jewelry was extreme. As Steven spoke with Matt, he twisted his wedding band. Why didn't Leya want to hand hers over?
Matt said, "The tape of Leya and her mom's conversation was nothing more than a mother and daughter's conversation. I'll continue the taping. Can you come by Task Force and pick up some sensitive information?"
"I'm on my way." After he replaced the receiver, he turned toward the door. There stood Peggy.
Peggy glared at Steven's wedding band. "Why are you still wearing that?"
"When I go to town, I need to keep up appearances in case I come in contact with a cartel member or informant."
"Why can't you put it on when you go to town, there's no need to wear it at the safe house?"
"We'll discuss the fact that I'm your supervisor when I return. Right now, I'm in a hurry."
He left the office, walked to the back door, and watched Leya and Jim play with the kitten. "I need to go to town. Leya, do you need anything?"
"A chocolate candy bar would taste really good." She rubbed her stomach and smiled.
He walked away, as a grin erupted across his lips.
*****
Steven returned at sunset and paused to admire the colorful western sky before he went to Leya's room. When he heard a faint 'come in', he opened the door. He was surprised to see Leya sitting in the center of her bed staring at her jewelry in a tangled mess. He dropped four shopping bags and a large envelope by the door. "What happened?"
"My wedding ring's missing." Leya glanced at him with tears spilling onto her cheeks.
Without saying a word, he left the room and slammed the door behind him. "Peggy!"
Peggy walked from the kitchen. "Did you call?"
"Where's Leya's wedding ring?"
"Since the wedding was only for appearance, I see no reason for her to wear it. I don't think she'll be going to town anytime soon. It's too dangerous."
"When Leya and I decide it's time to get an annulment, we'll take care of it. Until then, you need to stay out of our relationship. Give me the ring."
"I don't have it." She looked at the team members, as they entered the hall. "It's not your style to argue in front of others."
"I'm your supervisor. When you deserve discipline, it's my duty to take care of it." He glared at her. "I want the ring now."
"I told you I don't have it." As Steven turned to walk away, she called, "You aren't being objective when it comes to Ms. Vegas."
He stopped and faced her. "If you do not produce the ring in fifteen minutes, I'm writing you up and sending you back to Matt." Steven turned toward his office and growled, "I don't have time for these petty games.
She scanned the team standing around. "We'll watch your back, right guys?"
Steven stood in the door and faced her. "Fifteen minutes."
*****
When Steven answered the knock on his office door, Peggy held Leya's wedding band out for him. "Here."
Steven took it. "I am glad you came to your senses. I hope we don't need to discuss this again." He closed the door.
He stood by the door and fingered the band. This won't do. He grabbed his jacket and started out the front door. He stopped and called, "I'm going to town. Make sure Leya's protected."
Derek and Jim stuck their heads from around the workroom corner. "Gotcha covered, chief."
Steven nodded and left.
| Author Notes |
MERRY CHRISTMAS
& HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!! |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
After arguing with Peggy about Leya, Steven leaves the safe house.
At every sound Peggy heard, she moved the curtains to stare outside as she waited for Steven's return. Almost three hours later, he walked through the door. Peggy hurried to him. "I don't understand why you're so upset over a wedding ring. You know Leya's dad received the marriage certificate. Why stay married?" She glared at his finger. "And why are you still wearing that ring?"
Steven glanced toward the stairs, then back at Peggy. "Leya and I are adults. We're capable of handling our own lives."
*****
Leya walked halfway down the stairs, overheard the harsh tone in Steven's voice, and released a deep breath. "Stop it! I can't stand the arguing." She focused on Steven. "Find another team to protect me. You and Peggy have been friends too long to fight over me. I won't be the cause of your friendship falling apart. Good friends are hard to find."
"Listen to her," interrupted Peggy as she placed her hand on Steven's arm. "She's not worth losing what we have."
Steven pushed her hand away and met Leya on the stairs. He took a small black box from his jeans' pocket and opened it. After lifting Leya's left hand, he removed the band and placed a platinum wedding band on her left ring finger. He said nothing, only stared into her eyes.
Leya's eyes glowed as she stared at the princess cut, royal blue sapphire stones with alternating diamonds. "Thank you," she whispered. She moved closer to him and started to put her arms around his neck, but stopped when she heard Peggy slam the bedroom door. Leya backed away and returned to her room.
*****
A few minutes later, Leya answered the door and stared at Steven standing there. The moisture in her eyes caused them to shine. "Why?"
He reached out and took her hand. "I thought you needed something better than what you had. I didn't know what you liked. I hope this is satisfactory."
She caressed the ring with the index finger of her right hand. "It came from you. It's perfect." They stared into each other eyes as a magnetic force drew their bodies closer. Their lips touched, and Steven tightened his grip. Leya inhaled slowly and backed away. "Steven?"
As Steven rubbed the back of his neck and gulped loudly, he turned his head searching around the room. He saw the four bags and envelope he'd dropped beside the door earlier. "Why didn't you open the bags? I left them for you."
"I didn't know that. I thought you accidentally left them." She rubbed her arms as goose bumps traveled up them.
He picked up the smaller one and dumped numerous chocolate candy bars on her bed. "I don't know what your favorite is, so I bought an assortment."
Leya's eyes sparkled as she stared at them. She chose the chocolate caramel, licked her lips, and smiled. "This is my favorite, but I like all of them. Could you hide the rest until I ask for one? If you leave them here, I'll eat them all by morning."
He put the candy back in the bag and chuckled. "So you're a chocoholic?" She bit slowly into the chocolate and nodded, as he picked up the largest bag and took out a pair of blue jeans, a pink T-shirt with a rainbow colored butterfly on the top left corner, and a pair of blue low-heeled shoes. "I hope you like these."
Surprised, she took the clothes from him and smiled. "Thank you. How did you know I liked butterflies?" She blushed. His touch was so gentle when he removed my tattoo.
With a grin, he looked behind her pretending to peek at her lower back. "I guessed."
She placed her hands to her stomach trying to stop the tingles.
As she continued smiling, he held up a second T-shirt with an orange kitten lying in a bed of flowers and chuckled. "Since you didn't seem to like that T-shirt, maybe you'll like this one better."
"They're both perfect." She reached over and touched his arm. "But why?" The feel of the strength in his arm caused sensations to run the length of her body.
"You said you dressed that way, because you're a Drug Lord Princess. Well, now you're my wife, so I wanted to give you another option."
She chewed on her lower lip. "Would you complain if I showed my appreciation with a hug?"
"No, but you might want to wait until I open the other bags, they're also for you."
As he opened the next largest one, she sat on the bed and stretched her neck to peek inside. He took out navy blue dress slacks and a matching blue sweater set. Leya started toward him, but backed away; as she took the sweater and held it in front her. "Steven, this is too much," her voice was low and husky as she watched him open the last bag.
He held up dark gray gym shorts, a light blue work out T-shirt, socks, and gym shoes. "Tomorrow morning we'll work out together and I want you to wear this. You'll be more comfortable than you were in blue jeans and bare feet."
Leya put her arms around his neck, and whispered, "Thank you so much." Her lips brushed his cheek.
He drew her closer. "You're welcome, but I also have an envelope you may want to see." He backed away and handed it to her.
She looked inside and was surprised to see four wedding photo proofs. "I didn't think you'd remember. Thank you."
"Let me know if you want to order any and I'll take care of it for you."
"Are they expensive? I don't have any money." She smiled as she held a photo of Steven watching her walk down the staircase in the wedding gown.
"Don't worry about it. Just tell me what you want and I'll take care of it."
"Thank you so much. I've already picked my favorite." She rested her head against his chest and sighed.
As his body reacted to their closeness, he took a step back. "I'd better leave. I'll see you around 0700 hours in the gym."
She released a deep breath. "Thank you again for everything." She chewed on her lower lip before she added, "And thank you for being a gentleman and knowing when to leave. I couldn't do that right now."
| Author Notes |
I hope everyone enjoyed Christmas with friends and family. I wish everyone a Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for your continued support. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER SEVEN
Steven moaned in pleasure as he felt a warm body slither in bed behind him. He rolled over and wrapped his arm around her. "Having problems sleeping, again?" A sharp slap stung his cheek, and he yelled, "What the hell?" He turned on the light and beside him lay a very angry Peggy.
"So you are used to sharing your bed with Ms. Vegas?"
"I'm not used to sharing a bed with anyone. What are you doing here?"
"Isn't it obvious what I'm doing here?"
"No!"
Without warning, Peggy slid on top of Steven. Before he could respond, she kissed him passionately.
"What's got into you?" Steven lifted her by the shoulders and rolled away. "What's got into you? We're friends, only friends. One time close friends, but now I'm not sure how close."
Peggy smiled as she slid the shoulder straps from her gown. "More than close friends. Let me show you how close we could be." She stepped from the discarded gown and took two steps toward him. "I'm in love with you. Look at me and how much I want you."
Steven stepped back and reached for a discarded blanket. "Peggy, please don't do this. I'm your supervisor." He extended the blanket so it shielded her lithe body from his gaze. "I don't know where you got the idea we could be more than friends, but you must realize that isn't possible."
For several momments, Peggy studied her prey before bending down to recover her nightgown. Seductively, she wiggled into it and pulled it to her waist. "I'm like any other female. I want a husband and family and my biological clock is in high gear." She lifted her left breast and inserted it into the lacy support structure of the nightgown. "See, even they have a mind of their own when that clock's ticking." She gestured to her upright nipples.
Unsure what to do next, Steven stepped back and ran his fingers through his hair. "I can't help your biological clock's timing, Peggy. It doesn't have anything to do with me."
As she secured her right breast into the nightgown, Peggy continued, "Do you know I compare every man to you? That's why I decided you would be the perfect husband."
"I understand, but it's not possible. There's no simple way to say this, but I think of you as part of the team and I can't allow personal feelings on my team."
"You're a West Point graduate, a major in the U.S. Army, and a team chief for Task Force 385. You've destroyed your career by marrying Ramon Vegas' granddaughter. Any chance for job advancement went down the drain when you said I do."
"I'm fully aware of what I've done." He released a deep breath. "I've told you before my personal life is none of your business."
"I'm sure she's not nearly as well educated as you are. She's been pampered her entire life so doesn't have a work ethic. Since her family manufactures and sells drugs, she probably uses herself." Peggy scooted closer to Steven. "You're blinded because she dresses seductively. If she wasn't around, you'd realize I'm the right woman for you."
"Leya has nothing to do with me not wanting a relationship with you. I've told you, I think of you as one of the guys."
She took his hand and placed it on her breast. "Follow my lead and I'll prove I'm not one of the guys. I'll give you ecstasy like you've never known," she whispered.
He yanked his hand back. "I've tried to be nice, but it hasn't worked. I don't love you and could never love you. You've embarrassed yourself enough for one night. You need to leave." He held the bedroom door open for her.
After she exited, he closed the door and leaned against it. Leya was right. Peggy thinks she's in love with me. Now what? He wondered how to handle this new problem.
*****
The following morning, Steven finished his five-mile run and grabbed a towel. When he saw Leya enter the gym wearing the excerise clothes, he grinned. "Good morning. I see you're ready to work out."
She glanced down at her clothes. "Do I look all right?"
"You look perfect." He wiped the sweat from his face.
Her cheeks turned pink as she scanned the area. "Am I late? Why didn't you wait for me?"
"You're on time. I wanted to get my run over before you came down. By the time you're finished with the treadmill, I'll be finished with the weights, then I'll help you with them."
Peggy walked in wearing a multi-colored spandex exercise outfit and stood on the treadmill beside Leya. Steven glanced at the clock on the wall, then toward her. "PT (physical training) started at 0600 hours. You're late."
"I had things to take care of." She glared at Leya. "I see Ms. Vegas is on time."
He sighed and shook his head. "You're not wearing the Task Force 385 regulation PT uniform."
Peggy leaned her head toward Leya. "Neither is she."
"Leya's closer than you are. Do I need to remind you Leya isn't an employee of Task Force 385? You are."
Leya's hand tangled with a strap and pulled the safety button from the treadmill. The treadmill came to an immediate halt. She stumbled and fell from the rear of the treadmill.
Steven stopped her from falling to the ground. "You all right?"
Her cheeks turned pink. "I'm fine. What happened?" She watched Steven replace the button and he restarted the treadmill.
"The treadmill stopped when you accidentally pulled the safety button."
Peggy laughed and began running. "I see walking on a treadmill isn't one of her talents, but her fingernails look perfect."
Leya turned toward Peggy. "I've done nothing to you. Why do you hate me?"
"I have reasons, but nothing to concern your pretty little head with."
Leya released a deep breath, but remained silent.
Steven stood beside Leya and waited. Neither woman continued speaking, so he began lifting weights.
When Steven finished, he led Leya to the weight area.
Peggy stretched and said, "That was a quick five miles."
Leya glanced at Steven. "Should I keep track of how far I've walked?"
He glared at Peggy. "It doesn't matter. Let's get started." He helped Leya with the chest curl machine. Peggy used free weights and did the same exercise, only with more weight and better form. This continued until they completed all the machines.
When they finished, Steven led Leya to the staircase. "When you finish showering, come down for breakfast." After he watched Leya walk up the stairs, he went to his office to check if any messages needed his immediate attention.
Through the closed door, Steven heard, "You can't just walk away from me." He opened the door, and Peggy stood there with her hands on her hips. She continued, "I don't understand why you're so interested in Ms. Vegas? You know nothing about this woman."
"Matt gave me this file yesterday," he interrupted as he reached for a folder on top of the desk.
"It's Leya's background check. She was privately tutored until twelve years old and then came to the United States for further education. She went to the most exclusive girl's finishing school, then to Yale where she studied pre-med. She took this year off because her great aunt became ill. She plans on returning to school in the fall."
"But that doesn't tell you what she's like. How do you know she's not a serial killer?"
"According to this, she's never even had a traffic ticket. Her father never included her in his business, because she's female. She's basically a trophy; plus somebody he can marry off to enhance his drug cartel." He set the file down. "I don't have time for this, I need to shower."
Peggy stomped off and over her shoulder yelled, "It means nothing. You still don't know what she's like. How do you know you can trust her? I can prove you can't trust her."
| Author Notes |
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for the reviews and continued support. I appreciate all of you. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
In the first part of this chapter Steven buys Leya a different wedding ring and appropriate clothes. Peggy makes a sedutive move on Steven, but he turns her down. Leya and Steven worked out before Leya goes down to breakfast.
By the time Leya walked into the dining room, Jim was sitting at the table. "Am I too late for breakfast?" she asked.
Jim jumped up and fixed her a plate. "You're just in time. I'm running behind myself and would enjoy your company."
"Thank you." She smiled and took the plate from him. They discussed the weather and the kitten, before Leya worked up enough courage to ask, "What did I do to Peggy to make her hate me?"
"As far as I know, you did nothing. I think Peggy's making a play for Steven and sees you as a threat."
"I mentioned that to Steven the first time I met her, but he shook it off saying they were only friends."
"Last night, when she tried to climb in his bed, I'd say she made it perfectly clear what she wants."
Leya studied her eggs, before she asked, "You said tried to enter his bed?" She accented the word 'tried'.
"Yep, Steven tossed her to the curb. He made it clear he wasn't interested."
"You know this, how?" Leya's eyebrows rose.
"I had guard duty and couldn't miss the fireworks." He grinned. "Plus I was bored and wanted a little excitement so paid extra attention."
Guard duty? I wonder if the men know I went to Steven's room the night I found out Father beat my mother. Leya could feel heat in her cheeks.
As he gazed into her eyes, Jim grinned. "And yes we know you spent Friday night with Steven." He chuckled before he added, "Bob had guard duty and mentioned from the lack of noise in the room only sleeping went on."
Leya released a huge sigh. "He's right. I was upset because I was the reason those awful things happened to my mother."
"You don't need to justify yourself to me, or anybody for that matter."
Peggy walked into the dining room. "Is there any breakfast left?"
Jim pointed toward the kitchen. "A little, but not much. You're late."
Peggy glanced at Leya's full plate.
When Leya raised her plate to offer it to Peggy, Jim interrupted, "Leya, you don't need to apologize for anything." He took the plate from her and set it on the table. "Peggy knows what time breakfast is served. If she's late, it's her fault."
He went into the kitchen and came out with a small bowl of scraps and handed it to Leya. "Let's feed your kitten." He called over his shoulder, "Peggy, you want to come?"
As Leya and Jim went outside, they heard a cupboard slam in the kitchen.
After they sat on the steps in silence and watched the kitten eat, Leya asked, "Why'd you antagonize her?"
"We've noticed the way she treats you and none of us like it. I have a feeling more of the men will be standing up for you. Matt's also aware of the problem. He's thinking about removing her from the team but wants to give her time to get herself together. Maybe after last night, she'll realize Steven isn't interested and things will calm down."
"Or she'll hate me more, thinking the reason Steven turned her down is because of me. It's not. Steven and I are only friends."
Jim smiled. "Right! I bet Steven tries convincing himself of that too."
Unsettled by what Jim said, Leya put the kitten down and gathered the bowls. As she climbed the stairs to her room, she avoided everyone as she tried to quell the torrent of emotions. In her room she stared out the window. Could Jim be right? She grabbed a pillow from the bed and hugged it. There's no way Jim could be right. I don't love Steven. She adjusted the wedding ring and smiled. When he gave me this ring, I wanted to smother him with kisses. She sat at the table and stared at a piece of paper. Steven could never love me. I am the daughter of Hector Vegas, a famous drug lord. She didn't come downstairs for the rest of the day.
*****
Around 2:30 AM, Leya was startled by sirens and the whizz of rapid gunfire richocheting off the building. She stood at the top of the stairs in an oversized pink T-shirt and matching bikini panties.
Derek saw her and yelled, "We're under attack! Get to Steven's office ASAP!"
"But I'm not dressed."
Derek took three steps at a time, grabbed her arm, and yanked her downstairs. "If you're dead, nobody will care what you're wearing."
Steven finished handing out the M4's and yelled, "Where's Leya?"
Derek led her down the dimly lit hall to Steven's office. "I have her."
Steven took her arm from Derek's hand and led her inside the office. "Geoff will stay with you. Under no circumstances are you to open this door." He pointed toward it. "As long as you stay put, you'll be safe." He turned to leave.
As she heard the rapid barrage of automatic weapons, she asked, "What's going on?"
Steven called over his shoulder, "I don't have time to discuss it but I'd guess your family has come to take you back." From the hall, he yelled, "Keep this door locked!" As he shut the door, he shouted, "Jim, turn that siren off. We don't need any added confusion."
After Geoff locked the door, he led Leya to the sofa. "Sit down." Noticing she was trembling, he sat beside her. "At least the siren's off. You'll be safe in here."
Leya glanced in the direction of hearing a ching-chink and then noticed Geoff chambering a round. Once he set his SIG Saure 9mm on the table, she didn't take her eyes from the door. "How did they find me?"
"Good question? We'll worry about that later."
After taking a deep breath, she asked, "What if my family forces their way into the house?"
Holding up the gun, he said, "That's what this is for."
The brrrrrrrrrr, brrrrrrr of rapid fire continued as Leya's subconscious led her to believe Steven was shot, bleeding on the steps by the front door unable to get help. She wanted to run to him, he needed her help.
As she stood, Geoff took her hand. "You need to sit. There's nothing you can do. The team's experienced in handling this type of situation. They'll be fine as long as they know you're safe. They'll get careless if they have to worry about you."
Leya sat down. "I hope you're right."
"I am. Now, cuddle in and wait." He put his arm around her.
About thirty minutes later, Steven pounded on the door. "Geoff, call Matt for back-up."
| Author Notes | After this post, I will be back to posting only on weekends. School starts tomorrow. I appreciate all my fans and I value your reviews. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
The safe house was attacked. It's assumed Leya's family is trying to take her back.
As the sun peeked over the horizon, the gunfire stopped and Steven pounded on the office door. "Geoff, unlock the door. This round's over."
After Steven heard the click of the lock, he pushed it open. "How's Leya?"
"Scared to death, she stared at the door and hasn't said a word since you called for back-up."
Steven pushed past him, sat beside Leya, and brushed a curl of hair from her cheek. "It's over. You're safe for now."
"At what cost? Was anybody hurt?" Her body trembled.
Matt watched from the doorway and answered, "We sustained a few minor injuries. The Task Force Doctor is on the way. The men are searching for injured survivors. If anybody was left behind and needs medical attention, we'll see they get it."
She stared at him and smelled perspiration. "Thank you, General Patterson." Tears welled in her eyes but didn't roll down her cheeks. "If I go back to my family, this would stop and everybody would be safe."
Matt moved Steven aside and sat beside Leya. "First, call me Matt. Second, if you went back to your family, they'd probably kill you, if not worse." He continued slowly, "We won't hold you against your will. If you want to go back, I'll help you."
Steven stepped closer. "Matt, we can't let her go." As Matt raised his hand to quiet him, Steven turned and stepped back.
Leya leaned her head on Matt's shoulder.
Matt held her for a few minutes then suggested, "Why don't you go to your room and think about your decision. You can give me an answer later."
As Leya left the room, Peggy entered Steven's office. "What's wrong with Ms. Vegas?"
Matt and Steven glared at her as she addressed Steven, "Are you ready to admit she's contacting her family? How else would they know where to find her?"
Geoff replied, "I was with Leya for the past three hours. She was worried about the team. There's no way Leya had anything to do with this."
With her M4 resting against the indention of her right hip, Peggy said, "So, she's fooled you too. It's not unusual for men to be tricked by women, but you guys are real suckers for her big tits and brown eyes."
Matt moved to confront Peggy, glaring into her eyes. "I witnessed myself how upset she was and it wasn't an act. As for you, if your antics continue, you'll find yourself permanently stationed at Task Force 385 shuffling papers. Do you understand?"
"Yes sir," she said as she stood at attention.
"Good, now figure a way you can be nice." He took a flashlight from a pocket of his jacket. "Take this and help the men search the area." Matt watched her leave the room and shut the door. "Steven, now that the cartels know where to find Leya, we need to move her."
"Any idea how they're getting information?"
"Not a clue. You're closer to Leya than I am. Do you think she's a mole?"
"I can't believe she'd put us or her family in danger." He brushed his fingers through his short auburn hair. "I'll post two men in front and two in back. Think that'll be enough?"
"I'd feel better if Michael wasn't in Colombia. I'll detail some men to assist with security until we can move Leya." Matt glanced toward the door. "Leya was pretty upset. You'd better check on her. I'm going home to shower. I'll call after I get some sleep."
*****
When Leya heard the door open, she sat up in bed. "Who is it?"
"It's me." Steven turned on the light. "Sorry, I frightened you. I didn't want to knock and risk waking you. I came to see how you're doing." He watched her wipe the tears rolling down her cheeks. "You're not doing well, are you?"
She shook her head.
"I haven't showered yet, but may I sit by you?" She nodded as he sat. When he put his arms around her, she leaned into his chest. "Leya, would you be more comfortable lying down?" When she didn't answer, he added, "I'll still hold you."
Eventually with Steven holding her, she fell asleep.
*****
When Steven awoke, he felt how hot Leya was lying beside him. He crept from the bed and called for Jim to bring a thermometer. Jim waited as Steven placed the thermometer under Leya's armpit. After three minutes, he read it then asked, "Will you stay with her? I need to call Matt. The doc left a few hours ago, but he's needed again."
Within a few minutes after Steven returned and Jim left, Leya woke up and swallowed. "I don't feel well. My whole body aches and I'm freezing." Before she finished, she ran to the bathroom and vomited. She knelt on the floor to be closer to the toilet.
Steven knelt beside her and rubbed her back. When she finished, he helped her to bed.
"I'm sorry. You shouldn't have to witness that."
"Don't worry about it. While you were sleeping, I took your temperature. It's over 104 degrees. A Task Force doctor will be here shortly."
"Thank you." She hesitated before she asked, "Why are you so nice to me?"
"What do you mean?"
"Because of me, the entire team could've lost their lives."
"Well, you have a pretty face and Task Force men always come to the aid of ladies with pretty faces," he interrupted teasingly.
She shivered. "I have a whole laundry list of reasons why you should hate me. It includes costing you and Peggy a friendship."
He covered her with another blanket. "OK, you also have a good looking butt," he again teased.
"You're not going to be serious, are you?"
"Nope." He sat on the edge of the bed. "Matt told your mom you're sick, and she wants to see you right away. After the doctor leaves, we'll try to bring her for a short visit. Why don't you get some rest?" He watched her lie in bed. I'm nice to you because I'm in love with you, but there's no way I'll ever admit it.
*****
As Leya slept, Ralph entered her room. "Steven, you're needed downstairs. I'll stay with Leya."
Before Steven returned, the doctor arrived. While he examined Leya, he decided he needed to do blood work before he could give an accurate diagnosis.
Leya stared at the needle and cringed. "I don't do needles."
"Don't worry, it won't hurt." He searched for a vein. "You'll only feel a prick."
"You don't understand. I don't do needles." She placed her hand over his. "There must be another way."
Ralph sat beside her and held her hand. "I'm here. Squeeze my hand hard whenever you need to." He nodded for the doctor to begin.
Leya gulped - gulped - gulped - and gulped, as the doctor said, "Make a fist and hold it until I tell you to release it."
When the doctor was ready to stick the needle into her vein, Ralph took his other hand and turned her face toward him. "Leya, look at me." She glanced at the needle, as he said, "Come on, sweetie look at me."
She turned her head toward him and swallowed hard. As the needle went into her arm, she squeezed his hand.
The doctor removed the needle. "We're done. Now, that wasn't bad, was it?"
Ralph held up his red hand and rubbed it. "She has quite a grip." After laughing, he said, "You said you don't do needles, but you should've said you have a needle phobia."
Leya lay back in bed and brought the covers to her chin. "I'm sorry. Can we keep that between us?"
Steven sat on the edge of the bed. "Too late. I was standing at the door and witnessed the whole thing."
She covered her head with the blankets. "Please don't tell anyone."
Steven teased, "Just remember the more we tease, the more we care about you."
Before Leya could respond, the doctor said, "I'm not going to attempt to guess what's wrong with Mrs. Albright. I'll have the results of her blood work around noon tomorrow."
| Author Notes | Thank you for all your support and review. I appreciate each one of them. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
After the safe house was attacked, Leya became ill. A doctor was called and took blood tests. We are waiting for those results.
From the depths of sleep, Leya recognized the sound of footsteps on the creaking floor. As she scanned the room, she burst into a wide smile when she recognized her mother, Jacinda standing beside Matt. Leya held her arms out inviting her mother's hug. Senora Vegas hurried into her daughter's arms.
Matt cleared his throat. "I'll leave you ladies alone. Leya, if you need anything, there's a man posted outside your door."
As she chewed her lower lip, Leya motioned her mother to sit beside her. "The safe house was attacked yesterday." She released a deep breath. "Would Father have ordered that attack?"
Her mother answered in Spanish.
"Mother, speak English. We have nothing to hide or fear, besides the men are fluent in Spanish."
"I don't know. He was furious when he got news you were married. If your father didn't order it, Carlos might have. He sees himself running the largest cartel in the world. Merging the two cartels is the only way his dream could come true."
Leya closed her eyes and sighed. "Do you know how they found the location of the safe house?"
Senora Vegas shook her head. "Sorry dear, but no, I don't." After watching Leya for a few seconds, she turned and scanned the room. "You're married, but I only see your things in this room. What about your husband?"
"It's complicated."
"Are you saying you don't love him?"
"Mother...."
"Buenos dias, Senora Vegas," Steven interrupted as he opened the door.
"Buenos dias." She stood beside the bed. "I was asking my daughter how she likes married life."
Steven leaned over and kissed Leya's cheek. "Are you feeling better?" He turned toward Jacinda. "I'm sorry I wasn't here when you arrived. I had business to take care of." He turned and smiled at Leya. "Leya, I'm curious myself. Does married life agree with you?"
As a blush covered her cheeks, she said, "Yes, it does."
Steven glanced down at his ringing cell phone. "Sorry ladies. This is important." He turned toward the door and then stopped. "Jacinda, Matt will be here in a few minutes, to escort you home."
Leya and her mother watched him close the door.
"He seems like a nice man." She brushed a curl from her daughter's cheek.
"He is very nice." Leya patted the edge of the bed. "Mother, please sit." After Jacinda sat, Leya continued, "I know we only have a few more minutes. I don't want you worried about me. I'm sure I only have the flu."
Her mother held her hand. "If it's only the flu, I don't think the doctor would've drawn blood." After winking at her, she smiled and continued, "Are you already pregnant?"
"Mother, I'm sure I'm not pregnant. I have the flu."
A knock on the door interrupted their conversation, and Leya responded. "Come in."
Matt stepped into the room. "Senora Vegas, your daughter needs rest." He glanced at Leya. "Since the safe house was attacked, I'm moving your mother. This will be the last time you'll be able to talk until I can guarantee both of you are safe."
Leya and Jacinda shared a tearful good bye.
After her mother left, Leya felt queasy. She vomited and then nestled in to sleep.
*****
Early the following afternoon, the doctor arrived, took Leya's blood pressure, and asked, "Have you been to South America or Africa in the past week?"
"Friday I was in Bogota, Colombia." Leya tilted her head. "Why?"
He closed his eyes and sighed. "That's where you are from, right?" As Leya nodded, the doctor continued, "Was your last booster for yellow fever over ten years ago?"
She adjusted the blankets on her bed, avoiding his stare. "I've put if off, because I hate needles."
"How long has it been?"
"Two, maybe three years."
"Thought so. Young lady, you have yellow fever." The doctor glanced toward Steven. "Before I leave I want to make sure the men's boosters are up to date."
Steven nodded. "The only two we need to check are Ralph and Peggy. Ralph retired a few months ago, and Peggy rarely leaves the States. I'm positive the others' vaccinations are up to date."
*****
When they were alone, Steven pulled a chair beside the bed and held Leya's hand. "I'm staying with you tonight. I hope it's all right."
"You don't need to." Leya's eyes met his, and silence filled the room.
The sound of voices in the hallway caused Steven to blink. "I know, but I want to." He brushed a curl from her face. "Get some rest, sweetheart." He watched her close her eyes.
After she drifted off to sleep, he stood, noticed a sheet of paper on her nightstand, and lifted it. He read:
In darkness and turmoil
I have found an anchor
Steven, you are my strength
You are my salvation
Steven glanced toward Leya sleeping, reread the poem, leaned over, and kissed her cheek. "I love you, Leya. I will keep you safe."
| Author Notes | I want to thank all my fans for consistantly reviewing my posts. I appreciate your time and reviews. Thank you. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER EIGHT
Early the following morning, Steven was awakened by Matt tapping his shoulder. Steven stretched as he heard Matt ask, "How's Leya?" Before he could answer, Matt continued, "When can she be moved?"
"I'm pretty sure she can't be moved for a few days. She didn't sleep well last night."
A vein in Matt's neck popped as he frowned. "I want her moved today, by tomorrow for sure. I'll call the doctor and check." He took his cell phone off the belt clip and punched in the number.
Matt stared at the phone. "The doc said the only place Leya can be moved to is the hospital." As he put his phone away, he noticed Leya stirring. "Are you feeling any better?"
"My head's pounding. Can you turn off the lights? They hurt my eyes." She watched Steven click the switch and said, "Thank you. How's my kitten?"
"Jim's responsible for the kitten. I'm sure he's doing a good job." He grinned.
"A kitten?" Matt's eyebrows rose.
Steven grinned. "One of those things we do for a pretty face."
Matt nodded knowingly as he sat beside Leya. "I know you've been sick since we last spoke but I told you we wouldn't hold you against your will. Have you made a decision?"
She glanced at Steven as she answered almost in a whisper, "If it's all right with the team, I'd like to stay."
Steven pushed his sleeves above his elbow and nodded. "It's fine with me. I'm positive it's all right with the men." I'm glad she came to that decision. He sent Matt a teasing glance. "I think Ralph has a crush on her."
"I wouldn't be surprised." Matt grinned as he rubbed the back of his neck. "He used to have a crush on Dani, but she's married with children."
When Leya ran into the bathroom and spent quite a while vomiting, Matt spoke with concern, "I'll figure out some way to keep the cartel at bay until Leya can be moved." He ran his hands through his short brown hair. "It won't be easy. Keep the men on high alert. Double the men on guard detail and the security rounds."
Leya walked from the bathroom and crawled back into bed. "Steven, since the men are putting their lives in danger for me, would you ask them if it's all right if I stay?"
Steven stepped into the hall where Bob stood guard. "Have the team meet in Leya's room in five minutes. The meeting will only last a few minutes."
When the team assembled, Steven asked, "Are you willing to continue protecting Leya?" Without hesitation, he reminded them, "The drug cartel knows she's here. We can't move her until she's well enough to travel. That could be weeks."
Ralph was the first to respond. "I'm in for the long haul."
Jim smiled and stared into Leya's eyes. "I'm in and have your kitten covered, but you should name him."
Bob grinned. "You know I'm always a sucker for a pretty face."
"Why would I mind? I'm on the disabled list myself." Geoff chuckled.
Derek tilted his head. "Of course, but why are you asking?"
Steven glanced toward Leya. "She doesn't want you feeling like you're forced to protect her, especially if you don't want to."
Derek smiled at Leya. "I'm sure it's the fever causing you to be delirious. You're one of us. We won't let anything happen to you."
As Steven waited for Peggy to respond, he thought, I knew she'd have the same effect on the team as Dani did. These men will do anything for her.
After a long pause, with the men staring at her, Peggy responded, "I don't see I have a choice. If I say no, I'll be sent to Task Force and my career's ruined. If I stay, I'll have to risk my life for Ms. Vegas while she sends information to her family. I don't see a choice."
Matt sighed loudly. "Peggy, pack your things. You're leaving with me. I don't know why you asked for this assignment. It isn't right for you."
She glared at Leya. "No Matt, Steven needs me."
Peggy, you did it now. Matt hates anyone defying him. Not only did you do it, but in front of the team and of someone outside the team. Matt's temper is notorious. Steven braced for the explosion as he watched Matt's clenched jaw and the veins in his neck pop out one at a time.
Leya whispered, "Thank you for willingly agreeing to risk your well-being for my protection. I appreciate it."
She glanced at Peggy. "I'm sorry you have so much animosity toward me. I don't know what I've done, but I'm sorry. Please forgive me."
"I'm sorry you're sick." Peggy glared at Steven.
Leya reached for Peggy's hand. "Thank you for your concern."
Peggy yanked her hand away, turned, and left the room. Matt followed. Soon they heard Matt's elevated voice, but they couldn't understand his words.
Ralph was the first to break the silence, "I think we better visit with Leya for a while." He grinned at her, "Hope you don't mind."
"I like the company." She smiled.
*****
The men stayed with Leya until they couldn't hear Matt's voice. After they left, Leya asked, "Steven, is it all right if I take a shower?"
"I don't think you're strong enough."
Although Leya heard disapproval in his voice and saw the scowl on his face, she said, "I am strong enough. I'm feeling better, really."
He sighed before saying, "OK, but I'm going against my better judgment."
Leya took a deep breath, afraid to make her next statement. "I'd like to change after my shower, but my nightgowns aren't appropriate."
"There's a reason I have Ralph helping you. He's old enough to be your father." He grinned and teased, "Maybe grandfather. Anyway, where are your nightgowns? I'm sure there's something appropriate."
After Leya pointed toward a dresser, Steven opened the drawer and fumbled through a few nightgowns, teddies and baby doll outfits. He held onto a silky blue gown. Leya would look beautiful in this. "You're right. There's nothing appropriate to wear in a house full of men." He thought for a second. "I have an idea. I'll be right back."
| Author Notes | Thank you for your reviews and continued support. I am sorry about my not being able to post except on weekends. The paying job must take priority. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
After the safe house was attacked, Leya became ill. She has yellow fever, from her recent trip to Bogota.
Steven returned with a gray Army T-shirt and clean sheets. "You can wear this. It'll cover as much as what you're wearing," he said and added under his breath, "Hopefully more."
"I heard that." Her cheeks turned crimson.
"I want to go on the record saying I don't approve of this shower idea." He paused, knowing he didn't have a choice. "Let's get it over." The scowl on his face showed his disapproval. "Are you sure you're strong enough? I'm positive you don't want my help."
"I'm sure I'll feel better after I shower and wash my hair. I feel grubby." She glanced across the room at the dresser. After a deep sigh, she pulled the blankets up under her chin. "Could you ... please ... get me some ...," Her voice dropped to a whisper, "clean underwear?"
Steven glared at her, knowing this was already a fiasco, and would only get worse. He searched through the underwear drawer. How can one person have so much underwear?
"Just grab a pair," she snapped. "It doesn't make any difference."
"It does. When you crawl out of bed and run to the bathroom, I can't help but notice your underwear."
"No, you can't!" Her arms crossed her chest.
He stared at her. "You're wearing pink bikini panties."
Leya lifted the covers and noticed she wore hot pink panties. "Sorry." She hesitated, before she continued, "I can't help it."
He grabbed a pair of blue bikini panties and handed them to her. "I know, but since I have to see them, I'd rather they cover as much as possible. What happened to the white briefs I tossed into the cart at the mall?"
"They were granny panties. I put them back." Her hand pushed her hair behind her shoulders. "I wish I had them now."
"So do I." Steven held out his hand to help her up. As she tried to get out of bed without showing her underwear, he laughed. "I've already seen them. It's too late to worry about it." He shook his head, as she covered her lap with a blanket and stood. He held the bathroom door open for her. "If you need anything, yell."
"I won't need anything." She slammed the door.
Steven began changing her sheets. Leya is a paradox. She acts innocent, yet dresses seductively. I never know how she's going to react.
After twenty minutes, Leya was still in the bathroom. As he sat on the bed, he wondered how much longer she was going to be in there. He glanced at his watch, then knocked on the bathroom door. "Leya?" He waited and called, "Leya?" When there still wasn't an answer, he began to worry and banged on the door. "LEYA. LEYA!"
Ralph came into the room. "What's all the racket?"
"Leya hasn't answered my knocks." Steven slowly opened the door. "Leya?" When she didn't respond, he walked in and discovered her lying in the corner of the tub unconscious. He grabbed a bath towel, covered her, and carried her to bed.
Ralph turned off the water and then helped Steven cover her with blankets.
"Ralph, lie beside her and hold her until she warms up. I'm calling the doctor and Matt." He left the room.
*****
When Steven walked in the room, Leya searched his eyes. "I'm sorry. Taking a shower wasn't a good idea. You were right."
Ralph patted Steven. "I'll be downstairs if you need me."
Leya whispered, "I'm freezing, would you hold me?"
Steven rubbed the back of his neck. "I see you're dressed." After he released a deep breath, he continued, "I'll hold you, but I need to be angry for a while. Can you let me be angry?"
"Yes." She swallowed.
He sat beside her and held her. As her body warmed, she fell asleep.
When she woke up, Steven asked, "How are you feeling?"
"About the same."
"The doctor said you need to stay out of the shower until you're stronger. You fainted because you haven't held any food down for a few days, you are weak, and attempted to do too much too soon. He said if you didn't hurt yourself when you fell you'll be fine."
After a pause, he stood as he said, "Now that I'm sure you're all right, I have a few things to say and I want you to stay quiet until I'm finished." He glared at her as he continued, "It would be to your advantage to listen once in a while. If you had listened this time, you wouldn't have scared Ralph and me to death. If you had listened, I wouldn't have entered the bathroom and carried you to bed. If you listened to me, I wouldn't have seen you naked."
She gulped.
He answered her gulp. "Yes, as you would say, you've been officially violated, and I had no choice." His voice rose sharply with his next sentence. "And it happened because you're so damn stubborn you won't listen to anybody!" He slammed the bedroom door, then opened it again and yelled, "Don't you dare get out of that bed for any reason!" After slamming the door, he stormed off.
*****
Steven went straight to his office and slammed that door too.
Ralph cracked it open just enough to ask, "Do you want me to stay with Leya?"
"No! Well, maybe. Hell, I don't know." He slammed his fist on his desk. "Are all females this frustrating? Why can't she just listen once in a while? Is that too much to ask?"
Ralph smiled. "Steven, you're in love with a very beautiful, very intelligent, and very stubborn young lady." He paused a second. "Good luck." Then he turned to leave.
"Wait," Steven called after him. "Don't leave. Tell me what to do."
"I can't tell you what to do. You'll have to travel this road by yourself and see where it leads you."
"Where could it lead?"
"It could lead to the lady you want to spend the rest of your life with, the one true love of your life. Or it could be a rough ride, where one or both of you get hurt."
"What do I do right now?"
"Cool off and then apologize."
"But I deserve to be angry. She ...."
"A real man takes other people's blame upon himself," interrupted Ralph as he patted Steven on the back and then left him to his thoughts.
| Author Notes | Again, I want to thank all my fans for your continued support. THANK YOU!!!!!! |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
After the safe house was attacked, Peggy was sent back to Task Force 385 to file papers. Leya was diagnosed with yellow fever.
Steven entered Leya's room early that evening. She was slightly propped up against the pillows and said, "I didn't expect to see you again today."
"When I left, I didn't expect to return. I'm sorry I yelled." He scratched his razor stubble and swallowed. "How are you feeling?"
"The same, still vomiting, every muscle aches, and my head's pounding." She glanced around the room. "I'm sorry for not listening. Can you forgive me?"
Turn and run. He took a deep breath as his heart took control and he sat beside her. "Of course." He pulled the blankets tighter around her. "Do you need anything?"
"I need for you to sit with me for a while."
Get out of this room or you'll fall for her charm. "I'll be here as long as you want me to stay."
They sat in silence, and Steven watched her lying weakly with her eyes closed so the light from the window didn't aggravate her headache. When he reached over and touched her hand, she squeezed his and held it.
After a few minutes, she opened her eyes. "Steven, we're married, right?"
He understood she was trying to justify that he saw her naked. "Yes, legally."
Her eyes closed, and tears rolled down her cheeks.
He leaned over her. "Leya, open your eyes and look at me." As her eyes opened, he stared into them. "When I picked you up, I was so scared that although I knew you were naked, I didn't notice." He paused knowing he'd just lied to her. "It was cruel of me to say what I did. I'm sorry. And yes, we're married. I think your future husband will understand how it happened. I know I would."
"Thank you." She paused briefly. "If you continue being nice to me, I might start thinking you actually care."
Her comment surprised him. "I do care," he responded, without giving any thought to what he said.
*****
Steven remained with her for the rest of Thursday and most of Friday, only leaving when work required his attention.
Leya began feeling better Saturday.
After the doctor examined her, he released a deep breath. "This could be remission. If it is, it could last hours or days." He stared into Leya's eyes. "If you start feeling sick you need to immediately get to the hospital."
On Sunday, Matt and Steven began making plans to move Leya to a new safe house. They were surprised the drug cartels hadn't tried another attack and knew they were on borrowed time. They agreed to move her early Monday morning.
Late Sunday evening, Leya opened the door to her room and yelled, "Steven! STEVEN!"
He ran up the stairs, three steps at a time. "What's wrong?"
Leya removed a Kleenex from her mouth. "I'm bleeding!"
He carried her down the stairs. "Ralph! We're going to the hospital, call Matt and have him meet us there."
The men followed him to the helicopter.
*****
After an examination and with Steven and Matt holding Leya while an IV was started, the doctor said to Steven, "Mrs. Albright may not survive this toxic stage of yellow fever."
The first three days she spent in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and the doctor only allowed Steven in the room for five minutes every other hour.
Finally, on the fourth day during Steven's short visit, Leya was awake. As he stood beside her bed, he was surprised that her beautiful deep brown eyes had lost their sparkle. He missed them not reading his soul.
Leya whispered, "I've missed you."
"And I've missed you. The doctor won't let me stay in the room with you for very long at a time, but I've been outside your room."
"Really?"
"I haven't left."
As she closed her eyes, the doctor said, "You need to leave, she needs rest."
"Can I stay a little longer?" Steven glanced toward the doctor, then back at Leya. "I'll sit quietly."
"If you're quiet you can stay, but I don't want Mrs. Albright wasting energy. She needs all the strength she has to fight this disease."
Steven reached over, held her hand, and prayed.
| Author Notes | Again, I want to thank all my supporters. I appreciate you continued support. Thank you all very much. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER NINE
After the doctor and nurse left Leya's room, Matt walked in and stood beside Steven. He placed his hand on Steven's shoulder and spoke in a low voice, "Remember when the Russian Mafia gained control of the Vegas Cartel and shutdown Task Force's main computer?"
"Yep, Dani snuck into the computer lab to repair it. When we discovered where she'd gone and tried to protect her, we were ambushed and she was shot."
"You remember. As I watched her lay comatose in bed, I realized I was in love with the most frustrating lady I'd ever met and couldn't do a damn thing about it."
Steven grinned. "Do you have a reason for sharing this with me?"
"I think you understand why I shared that piece of information with you." Matt chuckled.
Ralph entered and stood inside the doorway. "How's she doing?"
As the nurse chased Matt and Ralph from Leya's room, Matt answered, "Holding her own, but she's still in danger."
*****
A few hours later, Steven closed the door to Leya's room and said to Matt, "A nurse is with her now."
"Want a cup of coffee? It's on me." Matt stood.
At the coffee shop, Matt and Ralph attempted to get Steven's mind off Leya's condition, but couldn't.
Finally, moisture filled Steven's eyes. "How can I trust Leya? Her family tree is full of drug lords. I know my feelings for her are wrong." His elbows rested on the table, as he continued, "I've tried convincing myself there's no way a relationship with this lady can work."
He swallowed and ran his hand through his hair. "I'm in love with Leya. My brain gives me hundreds of warnings daily, hell hourly, but my heart won't listen. What do I do?"
Ralph sighed. "I'm glad you've finally admitted it. Now what are you going to do about it?"
Matt glared at Ralph and shook his head. "You never mince words, do you?"
Steven ignored Matt and stared at Ralph. "I don't have a clue. But I'm positive a team chief for Task Force 385, the ultimate drug fighting government agency, can't be married to Ramon Vegas' granddaughter. Think about the ramifications."
Matt grinned. "Could make for some interesting discussions. Imagine how much fun Congress could have with that, especially when future funding's discussed?" He thought for a few seconds, then said, "Steven, that's not your problem, it's mine. I'll support any decision you make where Leya's concerned, one hundred percent. You know you're like family to me, don't you? Do what's right for you and Leya, and I'll take care of Congress. I'm always ready for a good battle."
Steven gulped the rest of his coffee. "Thanks for your support." He glanced toward the hall. "I need to get back to Leya."
*****
When the doctor left Leya's room, he saw Steven leaning against the wall and said, "Mrs. Albright's vitals have shown a slight improvement. I wonder if allowing you in her room more often could be the difference."
"I don't know but I'm glad she's improving." His lips formed a small smile, still afraid to hope.
As he sat beside Leya, he took her hand. I wonder if Leya could ever love me. All she's ever said is that she thinks I look like a nice person and a hunk. He sighed and smiled. She did say she missed me, but I doubt that translates to love.
As Steven was lost in his thoughts, Leya woke up. "Steven?"
He leaned in closer. "Yes?"
"I just wanted to see your green eyes." She smiled. "I've told you that I've never met anyone with green eyes before, haven't I?"
He grinned. "You did, but I didn't believe you."
She closed her eyes. "It's the truth." She fell back to sleep.
Steven held her hand and didn't leave her side that night. Early the following morning, Matt came in the room. "Steven, get yourself something to eat. You need a break. I'll sit with Leya."
*****
When Leya woke up, she was surprised to see Matt sitting in a chair beside her. "Hello, but why are you here, General Patterson?"
"I've told you to call me Matt and I'm here because I care. Steven spent the night with you. I ordered him to get something to eat. Do you mind if I sit with you?"
"No. I'm just surprised some one with your status would take time to spend with me." She paused, as a nurse brought her something to eat. She couldn't believe Matt helped her sit up in bed and assisted her with breakfast.
"You're a legend in Colombia. My family, of course, hates you, but also respects and fears you. You seem almost normal, not this macho gringo who hates Hispanics and kills them because they're not Americans."
"Wow, I never thought of myself as a legend, but it doesn't sound like much of a compliment." He thought about what to say next. "I'm a normal man. I have a wife and two children. My wife, by the way, is half Italian. Not one hundred percent American." He joked, "Think that's why she's so difficult?"
"You love her very much, and she loves you. It's obvious just watching you two. I wish I could find someone who loves me that much."
"I have confidence you'll find someone who loves you unconditionally. You're a special young lady." He hesitated before he said, "I want to go back to your first statement. I've never killed anyone unless my life or one of team member's lives was first threatened. I don't kill for any other reason, but unfortunately in my line of work sometimes it happens."
"Is Steven in the army?"
"Yes. He's a major and moving up fast. He's my 'go to' guy. He's more than a co-worker or subordinate, he's family. I'd do anything for him." He watched her gulp. "What about that bothers you?"
"I'm not sure." She released a slow breath. "Maybe because I don't want him to dislike me just because of whom I am. I'm not only Roman Vegas's granddaughter but I'm Mestiza." She studied her tanned skin color as she thought about how to word the next sentence. "And since he's in the Army, he may have a conflict with that. Does that make sense?"
Matt sighed. "More sense than you know about."
The doctor walked in and smiled at Leya. "You're making a remarkable recovery. Just yesterday morning you weren't capable of sitting up and eating; let alone carrying on a conversation. How do you feel?"
"Better, but I'm still really tired and have a major headache. When's the headache going to leave?"
"I don't know, but hopefully within a few days." He turned toward Matt. "I need to examine Mrs. Albright. Could you come back in a few minutes?"
As Matt walked out the door, he said, "I'll be back later, if Steven doesn't occupy all your time."
*****
As Matt stood in the waiting room, Peggy walked up to him. "Where's Steven?"
Suspicious as to why she was at the hospital, he said, "He's taking a break. Leya's showing signs of improvement, by the way."
"I was going to ask about her. Just because I don't trust her, doesn't mean I want something to happen to her. I don't understand why men always fall for pretty women. I'm sure it's because she dresses so seductively. She's not even that good looking."
Matt shook his head at that statement. As much as I love Dani, and Dani is absolutely gorgeous, I can't ignore Leya's beauty. Her beauty is more mysterious than Dani's.
Leya's background check proves she was more than just a beautiful woman. She's intelligent, well educated, compassionate, and has a great sense of humor. I know exactly why Steven's in love with her.
Matt responded to Peggy, "I'll tell Steven you were here. I'm sure you have work that needs to be completed at the Task Force."
"I've decided to wait for him. I'll see that my work is finished before I go home tonight."
Matt sat in a chair and picked up a magazine, deciding he didn't want to talk with her anymore. Soon he heard Ralph's voice and knew Steven was with him. He wished he could think of a way to warn him that Peggy was waiting.
Peggy smiled at Steven, as he walked up to Matt and asked, "Is the doctor with Leya?"
"Yes, he shouldn't be much longer. Leya's a lot stronger today. It looks like she's going to beat this."
"Great."
When the doctor walked out of Leya's room, he gave Steven a report. "Two days ago I was worried about Mrs. Albright. Very few people survive this toxic stage of yellow fever. I'm glad I allowed you more time with her. It seems you were the right medicine. Sometimes a loving relationship between a husband and wife is stronger than the most powerful medicine or disease."
"Thank you." Steven grinned at Matt and walked into Leya's room without addressing Peggy.
Peggy grabbed Ralph's arm and dragged him to the side of the room. "What's going on? Their marriage isn't real. Why hasn't someone told the doctor?"
"You heard the doctor. There's something special between them. Evidently they share a special bond."
"She's not the right woman for Steven. They have nothing in common."
"I think Matt's already told you to mind your own business," interrupted Ralph.
After releasing a deep breath, she asked, "I'm sure they're moving Leya once she's out of the hospital. Has Matt found a new safe house? If not, I can help him find one."
"I don't think any decisions have been made. Why?"
"No reason, just curious."
Matt listened curiously. Could she have instigated the attack on the safe house?
Matt found a private room and called Joe. "Find some way that only Peggy knows we're moving Leya to a safe house at 117 Maple Street Saturday around 1100 hours. On my way to work, I pass that house and it's been abandoned for the past year."
| Author Notes | I know this is longer than I usually post, but there isn't really anywhere to break it. I'm sorry. Thank you to all my faithful supporters. I couldn't do this without your help. |
By barbara.wilkey
After the doctor's positive report, Steven entered Leya's room. "According to the doc, you're about ready to bust out of this joint."
"Can I get out by the end of the week?"
"I doubt that, but maybe next week." He grinned and held up his cell phone. "But you can call your mom and let her know you're doing better."
The sparkle in her large brown eyes revealed her excitement, as she watched him dial. After reassuring her mother, she handed Steven the phone. He accepted it and continued holding her hand.
"Come closer, please." As he leaned toward her, she used both hands rubbing his five-day growth of razor stubble. "I appreciate the time you've spent with me, but you need to shave, shower, change, and sleep. I'm OK now, so you can leave for a few hours." She glanced at the IV's and the machines attached to her and teased, "I promise I won't go anywhere."
He reached up and scratched his chin. "So you don't want this rubbed against your cheek, huh?"
Her cheeks turned a healthy pink. "You have my permission to leave, but only for--let's say three hours," she teased.
"Only three hours?" he asked playfully. "How am I going to get some sleep in three hours?"
She released a deep breath and pouted her lips. "OK, you win. You can leave until tomorrow morning."
"I'll make a deal with you. I'm sure you'll fall asleep sometime this morning. I'll leave once you're asleep. Deal?"
She tilted her head as she thought, then grinned. "Deal."
"If you promise not to discuss it with anybody, I'll tell you about the safe house we're moving you to." He grinned. "Can you keep a secret?"
"Of course, nobody ever comes to see me except you and Matt."
"True, but nurses and doctors come in and out. You can't say anything around them. Understand?"
After she nodded, he continued, "I think you'll like this place. It's in the country and the house sits on about ten acres. It's a log ranch house with a fireplace. You won't have an upstairs to yourself, but the master bedroom is large and at one end of the house by itself. You'll have that end of the house."
Her eyebrows rose. "If the house has only one story, you could come in through my bedroom window. Nobody would know it."
Her statement confused him. "I'd never come in your room through a window."
She shook her head. "That's not what I meant. A stranger could climb into my room through a window and nobody would know it."
"For a second I thought you were afraid of me. The windows have security locks and alarms. We're not taking any chances with your security."
Her eyes captivated him. Again, they searched his soul, before she said, "I completely trust you."
"I'm glad to hear it." Feeling a desire to kiss her, he swallowed, afraid of where it might lead. He glanced at the IV and then went back to describing the house. "The basement has a built-in pool. The area surrounding the pool has been turned into a gym, so there's a place to workout."
"I love swimming. Can we stop by a store on the way to the house?" She grinned and teased, "Unless you want me to swim nude."
He coughed. "We'll stop by a store, and you can get a conservative swimsuit." The thought of Leya swimming nude, was one he didn't want to have.
"Conservative?" She sighed. "I've seen this cute, little beige crocheted bikini that would look really nice on me."
He glared at her. "You're teasing, right? The men couldn't stand seeing you in a skimpy swimsuit."
"The men?"
He didn't like admitting it but did. "OK, I couldn't stand watching you swim in a skimpy suit. I've already admitted I'm attracted to you and it wouldn't be fair to me. I'm sure the rest of the men would agree."
She patted his arm. "I'm teasing, but the suit is really cute."
"I'm sure it is."
Silence filled the room as Steven watched Leya lost in thought. He took a penny from his pocket and held it toward her. "A penny for your thoughts."
"Nothing. I'm getting drowsy."
"I think there's more going on in that pretty little head of yours than thoughts of sleep, but if you don't want to discuss it, that's OK."
They sat silently for a few minutes, before Leya spoke, "Steven, do you ever plan on getting married or are you a confirmed bachelor?"
He teased, "I'm married to you, remember?" He noticed moisture well in her eyes. "Seriously?" He thought for a few seconds before he answered, "I'm very happy with the way things are right now."
The doctor entered. "Major Albright, I need to run some tests on your wife. She'll probably fall asleep, so you might want to take a break for a few hours."
Steven kissed Leya's hand. "We'll finish this conversation later. I'm going to the Task Force building. Matt and Ralph are in the hall if you need anything."
She nodded in acknowledgement.
| Author Notes | Again I want to thank all my fans. I could not do this without your continued support. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
Leya is recovering in the hospital from yellow fever. Matt decides to set a trap and see whom he catches.
With Leya being subjected to an intensive examination by the doctor, Steven took the opportunity to finally shower and shave. When finished, he headed toward the front door. Leya has almost beaten yellow fever, but I hate being away from her. I'll catch-up on sleep after she's released.
As his hand reached for the door handle, Peggy walked up and grabbed his arm. "I want to know what's going on between you and Ms. Vegas."
He yanked his arm away. "I don't owe you an explanation. Our relationship is off-limits to you."
"We were good friends until she came between us. This morning at the hospital, I heard the doctor say something about a special relationship. That marriage is only one of convenience." Peggy paused, then asked, "Are you in love with her?"
He nodded. "I've fallen in love with Leya. As for our friendship, Leya wasn't the cause of it ending. If you understood we were only friends and would be nothing more, we'd still be friends."
"Have you slept with her?"
"You know better than to ask that," he answered, caught off guard by her bluntness.
"You haven't, have you?"
He opened the door, exited, and muttered, "This conversation is over. I need to get back to the hospital."
*****
After Steven left Task Force 385, Joe noticed Peggy alone in the computer lab. He nudged the lab door open with his foot, pretended to make a cell phone call, and spoke loudly, "Leya Albright will be released from the hospital Saturday around 1100 hours."
He pretended to listen, then said, "We're taking her to the safe house at 117 Maple Street. Most of the team's in mandatory training and won't report until 1800 hours. It's required in order to keep government funding." He pretended to listen again, then replied, "Sure there's a concern about the lack of security for those seven hours, but we can't do anything about it."
*****
On Saturday, Joe and Matt waited anxiously to see if Peggy took the bait. In case she did, Matt, Bob, Joe, Jim, and Derek hid in a wooded area surrounding the house, with the Task Force's special reaction team on alert. Ralph and Steven remained at the hospital in case Peggy discovered the trap.
Steven and Ralph were told Matt had received an intelligence report that the Vegas Cartel might move against Leya. Bob, Jim, Derek, and the special reaction team were told a huge drug deal was going down at the abandoned house.
Around 1300 hours, fifteen men from a drug cartel surrounded the Maple Street house. They entered, found the house vacant, and then left.
Matt called Ralph. "Code Red! I'm on my way with the rest of the team."
*****
Ralph opened the door and nodded at Steven. Steven took his Sig Sauer 9mm from his shoulder holster and chambered a round. All while, he was aware of Leya's eyes on him.
"What's going on?" she asked. "And 'nothing' is the wrong answer."
He paused, meeting her glare. She'd have to be dense not to notice the heightened security - and Leya was smart. "Probably nothing, but Matt got an intelligence report your family may attempt to take you back." He took her hand. "You don't want to go back, do you?" His heart sank when she didn't answer immediately.
She swallowed. "I want to stay here."
"Thought I'd better make sure."
*****
When Matt and the team arrived, they remained out of sight. Ralph and Geoff stayed inside the room with Leya, but made sure they weren't visible from the door or window. Steven sat beside Leya.
It wasn't long before Peggy arrived. She cracked the door and scanned Leya's room. When she saw Leya lying in bed, she decided to leave.
When Peggy turned around, she bumped into Matt. "Oh, excuse me."
"Looking for someone?" he asked.
She avoided eye contact. "I heard Leya was supposed to be released today, but I guess she took a turn for the worse." She paused as she thought about what to say next. "I came to see how she's doing." Her voice stumbled over the words, "I was concerned."
Matt held out his hand. "I need your credentials and weapon. You're under arrest." He called Task Force's security department and ordered an intensive background check on Peggy's previous seven years.
As she handed him her badge, she said, "You're making a mistake. I don't know what you're talking about. Leya's giving her family information. What motive would I have?"
After taking her weapon, Matt motioned for Bob to take her to Task Force, as he answered, "You tried to set Leya up because you think she's the reason Steven hasn't returned your love."
Bob handcuffed Peggy's wrists together, as she snapped, "You're wrong. Steven and I are only friends. Where'd you get the idea I was in love with him. I bet Leya told you."
*****
Steven, Ralph, and Geoff stood at Leya's hospital room door and watched. Once Bob took her away, Matt explained what had happened.
When Steven and Leya were alone, she apologized, "I'm sorry. If I didn't need protection from my family, I wouldn't be at the safe house, and Peggy wouldn't see me as a threat. It all goes back to my family." She took a deep breath and wiped moisture from her eyes. "Everything always goes back to my family."
He took her hand. "Peggy made her own choices. Your family had nothing to do with them."
| Author Notes | Once again, I want to thank all my fans. Without your support, I could not continue to write. Thank you. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER TEN
Monday morning, Leya was released from the hospital. Steven, Leya, and the team stopped by a shopping center, so Leya could purchase a swimsuit. As the team posted themselves around the store, Ralph and Steven scanned the area, staying close to Leya. Steven rubbed his neck and said, "Leya, hurry, but make sure you buy a conservative suit."
Ralph glared at Steven. "Leya in any swimsuit won't be conservative."
Steven gulped. The thought of Leya in any swimsuit is bothersome. How much longer will I be able to hide my feelings?
Leya searched and finally chose a one-piece black swimsuit.
After it was paid for, Steven cupped her elbow and hurried her from the store. "I guess it's as harmless as any suit."
*****
When they arrived at the safe house, Steven led her through the house to the backdoor. Jim stood on the back steps and opened the door. "Step outside with me."
When she did, she saw her orange kitten and scooped him up, hugging him. "Thank you."
"You really should name him."
She stroked his ears and tilted her head. "How about Oscar?" Lifting him to eye-level, she smiled.
Jim grinned in agreement. "Oscar, it is."
Bob opened the door. "Jim, you're needed for a poker game."
After Jim went inside, Steven and Leya sat on the steps and played with the kitten. Leya watched Steven for a few minutes before she asked, "You asked Jim to take care of Oscar for me, didn't you?"
"I knew you'd want him to follow you to the new safe house."
"You cared about what I wanted?" When he didn't respond, she said, "Thank you."
*****
A few hours later, Steven knocked on Leya's bedroom door. When she didn't answer, he entered and found her asleep. After he brushed a curl from her cheek, he felt her forehead, making certain she didn't have a fever, and pulled the blankets over her a little more.
Before he left the room, he saw the wedding proofs and a premedical book with a folded paper used as a bookmark lying on the nightstand. He picked up the book and opened it, then read:
My
Feelings of love
Come from above
My
Feelings of desire
Set my heart on fire
After staring at Leya, he replaced the poem, kissed her forehead, and whispered, "I love you, Leya."
As he opened the door, Leya raised slightly. "Steven, is that you?"
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to wake you. I was making sure everything's all right."
She smiled. "Thank you for caring, but I still can't figure out why."
He gulped and teased, "I'm just a caring type of guy." He noticed she made no effort to move. "Are you sure you're all right? Do I need to call the doctor?"
"I'm fine, really. I just tire easily."
He heard Ralph call him from his office, glanced toward the hallway, then back at Leya. "If you're sure everything's all right, I'll see you at dinner." He hesitated at the door, but left.
*****
When Leya entered the dining room for dinner, she wore the navy blue slacks and blue sweater Steven had given her.
Bob teased, "I didn't know we were supposed to dress for dinner." He grinned. "You look very nice, by the way."
As she thanked him, Steven entered the room, held the chair for her, and whispered in her ear, "You look fantastic."
The hot air brushing her neck caused goose bumps, as she responded, "You noticed?"
His eyebrows rose. "Of course, I noticed. It'd be impossible not to. Look at my finely tuned team. They're acting like coyotes surrounding their prey."
Jim teased, "We aren't acting like coyotes. We're in love."
The men continued bantering throughout the rest of the meal.
*****
After dinner, Leya headed toward her room and was half way down the hall, when Steven asked, "Would you like to go for a walk?"
"I would like that, but what about security?"
He held the backdoor open for her. "There's a security fence around the property. You're safe."
As the sun began to lower in the west, Steven removed his jacket and placed it around her shoulders. "I bet you don't have a jacket, do you?" When she shook her head no, he said, "I'll see that you get one."
"Thank you, again, for caring."
He didn't respond, as they listened to the crickets and bullfrogs. When they stopped beside the creek, Steven commented, "You do look especially beautiful tonight." He paused. "You don't need to dress seductively to get a man's attention. It comes naturally for you."
"Thank you." A healthy pink covered her cheeks.
There was silence, as Steven bent down and picked up a handful of pebbles and threw them one at a time into the creek.
Leya slowly released a breath. "Why'd you ask me to go for a walk? Did you want to discuss something?"
"Nope, just wanted to spend time alone with you."
There was silence, again.
As Leya walked along the edge of the creek, she slipped on some wet leaves. Steven grabbed her hand to steady her. "You all right?"
"Yes, just clumsy."
He grinned but didn't release her hand. When he adjusted his hand to get a better hold of hers, she stared at their clasped hands.
Steven noticed. "Do you mind?"
"Not at all."
He nodded and took a step. "Let's walk along the creek."
As the sun lowered in the sky, Leya heard a noise and jumped into Steven's arms.
He held her for a few seconds. "It's only an owl."
"Sorry." Leya stood beside Steven, still holding hands and teased, "For a minute I thought it might be a coyote."
He laughed. "I think the only coyotes around here are inside the house. It is getting dark. We better start back."
At the back door of the safe house, Steven put his hand on the doorknob. They stared into each other's eyes, wanting to kiss, but didn't, afraid of where a kiss might lead.
| Author Notes |
I am afraid I should have read this one more time before I posted. I hope I didn't post too soon.
Again thank you to all my fans. I need all your input. |
By barbara.wilkey
The following morning, Ralph knocked on Leya's door holding a breakfast tray. "You feel all right? When you didn't come down for breakfast, I got a little worried," he said as he cracked the door open.
"I'm fine." She opened the door wider and accepted the tray. "I had problems getting up this morning. Thank you. I was afraid I'd missed it."
"Did you think a house full of men would allow a lady to go hungry?" He chuckled.
"I guess not." Leya smiled. "Thank you again. When I finish, I'll bring the tray down." She peered around Ralph, hoping to get a glimpse of Steven.
"Steven went to town early this morning."
"I'll be finished in a few minutes." She nibbled a piece of toast absent-mindedly.
"He didn't tell us why," Ralph teased.
"I didn't ask." She closed the door.
"Your eyes did."
Leya heard him laugh, then Ralph pushed the door open without knocking.
"I almost forgot, but Steven said you could call your mother. Let me know when you're ready."
"Thank you." She smiled as she watched the door close.
*****
An unusual silence pervaded the house as Leya returned the tray to the kitchen. When she searched the house and found no one, she began worrying. Reaching the basement, she heard men's voices. She opened the door and walked down the stairs in the direction of the sound.
She came upon an Olympic size pool. Derek, Jim, Bob, and Geoff were playing water volleyball. Leya walked over to Ralph and asked, "What are you doing?"
"The chain link fence surrounding the property is linked into these security monitors." He pointed to the screens. "Nobody can get within one hundred yards without alarms going off." He showed her how the monitors surveyed the area before he said loudly, "Since the men in charge of your security are playing, I've been watching the monitors."
She turned toward the men and smiled. "I haven't even been here for twenty-four hours. I doubt I'm in any real danger." She faced Ralph. "Do you think I could play? I love swimming and volleyball."
Steven stood at the bottom of the stairs. "If you promise to rest, I think you can get in the 1600 hours game. But, you need to understand the game will have a thirty-minute limit. I don't want you getting too tired."
She smiled. "When did you get back?"
"Just now." He handed her a large shopping bag. "I heard about this young lady who didn't have a jacket."
She reached inside the bag. "You went to town to get me a jacket?"
He helped her try it on. "Does it fit?"
"Perfectly. Thank you." As their eyes met, Leya turned away and stared at the pool. "I can't wait to get in the water." She stepped toward the door. "I guess I'd better rest."
Steven touched her arm. "Just a minute." After she faced him, he handed her four magazines. "I picked these up. I didn't know what you liked, but maybe they'll help keep you from getting bored as you rest."
"Thank you, but why do you do things like this for me?"
"You needed a jacket and you need to rest. I just wanted to help." He reached in his pocket and took out a chocolate caramel candy bar. "Here."
"It's my favorite. You remembered." Her eyes widened as she accepted the candy.
A slight redness crossed his face and neck. "Did you call your mom?" She shook her head, so he continued, "Let's call your mom, then you can rest." In his office, he dialed the number and handed her the receiver. He timed the call for insurance against it being traced.
*****
As the men waited for Leya, it was decided Bob, Derek, and Geoff would make a team. Steven, Leya, and Jim would be on the other team. Ralph would referee and watch the monitors.
*****
When Leya opened the door to the pool area, her eyes stared at Steven as he climbed from the pool and walked toward her. Leya released a deep breath as the water dripped from his body. This is the first time I've seen him without a shirt. I knew he was muscular, but his muscles bulge. I've heard about six-pack stomachs, but holy cow! She breathed deeply and her heart skipped a beat as she noticed the large lump in his swim trunks.
He grinned. "You ready to kick-butt?"
She lowered the sweat pants revealing her suit. "Definitely."
He shook his head. "Conservative, right?"
"You better not say a word since you're flaunting your muscles." She blushed as she covered her mouth. "I didn't say that out loud, did I?"
Ralph put his arm around her shoulders. "Yes, you did, my dear."
"Sorry."
Steven took her hand and led her to the pool. "Can you swim?"
She glanced at him, dropped his hand, went to the diving board, and did a perfect swan dive into the pool. After she swam to the volleyball net, she stood. "Does that answer your question?"
Steven climbed into the pool. "You can swim."
Derek called to Ralph, "Hey ref, we're at a disadvantage. Leya's opposite us and a distraction. Can you spot us five points?"
Jim yelled, "No way, we have to play next to her. She distracts us too."
Ralph grinned. "My ruling is she's an equal distraction for both teams. Start the game. Leya's thirty minutes are running out, and the game hasn't started."
"Steven, they're teasing, right?" asked Leya.
"Ralph, no," he teased. "The guys about you being a distraction, no. You're a definite distraction." He chuckled.
Jim served the ball. "Let's go!"
As the game continued, Leya proved to be an asset to her team. Her only problem was her height, but she more than overcame it. The game was tied 14-14.
Leya jumped hitting the ball and fell backwards. Steven caught her before she went under the water. He lifted her up. Their eyes met and they continued staring. The game came to a sudden halt, as the men watched.
Finally, Bob asked, "Is Leya tired? We can continue after a nap."
Steven ran his fingers through his wet auburn hair. "I don't know. Leya, do you need to take a break?"
She gulped before she answered, "No, I'm fine," and then whispered, "I think."
Steven took her arm and led her to the side of the pool. "I heard that. Seriously, are you all right?"
"I'm fine, really." She paused before she added, "I still haven't got used to your green eyes. They catch me off guard sometimes."
"Your eyes catch me off guard most of the time." He scanned the men waiting, then asked, "Leya, do you need to quit?"
"No." They took two steps toward the center of the pool, before Leya stopped. "Steven, wait."
He faced her. "What?"
Their eyes met. "What's happening to us?"
"I'm not sure." He took her arm. "Come on." He led her to the center of the pool and then addressed the men; "We're ready. Who serves?"
After Bob, Derek, and Geoff won, Jim announced, "I'm protesting the outcome of the game because two thirds of my team's in love so we're at a disadvantage."
Steven dunked him as he said, "You're confused, unless you're having a secret affair with Leya."
Steven glanced toward Leya. "Are you having an affair with Jim?"
"Nope, I'm not having an affair with any gringo." She used her heaviest Hispanic accent when she said the word 'gringo'.
Jim ran over to dunk Leya. "Did you call me a gringo?"
Leya eluded him, but Bob grabbed her. "I think she called all of us gringos."
Bob gently dunked her.
Ralph walked into the water fully dressed and held Leya's arm. "Let me help you." As he led her up the steps, he chastised the men, "This young lady just got out of the hospital yesterday. She almost died. I can't believe, not one of you is gentlemen enough to come to her aid."
Matt stood in the doorway and laughed. "I just breached security, but this is almost worth it." He saluted Leya. "You're good. Not even Dani could've gotten Ralph in a pool, let alone fully dressed."
"I'm sorry." She cowered.
"You're not in trouble, but we do have a problem. The security system's broken. It needs to be repaired ASAP." He grinned. "Who won the game?"
Jim pointed to Bob, Derek, and Geoff. "They did, but I was at disadvantage. I had the lovebirds on my team."
As Leya ran up the stairs toward the kitchen, she called over her shoulder with her heaviest Hispanic accent, "I told you I'm not in love with any gringo."
Matt turned toward Ralph. "I take it that's what started this." He chuckled.
Ralph nodded.
"Sorry, Matt." Steven paused, then added, "As soon as I change, we'll work on the security system." He started up the stairs, then turned around. "It's amazing what a pretty face can do to a team, isn't it?"
Matt grinned. "Yep, especially one in a swimsuit."
*****
Before Steven started on the security system, he checked on Leya. When she didn't answer his knock, he opened the door and found her asleep. He removed the premedical book from her hand, opened the folded bookmark, and read,
The man of my dreams
My soul mate and protector
The answer to my prayers
My all in all
Refolding the bookmark, he smiled and placed it inside the book before he covered her.
As he turned to leave, he noticed the swimsuit hanging up to dry. Sighing, he closed his eyes as the image of her shimming out of the sweatpants entered his mind. He shook his head and released a deep breath. The entire volley ball game was a major hard-on. Thank heavens the water was cold. He closed his eyes at the image of Leya walking from the pool. Her long black hair and skin glistened from the water drops. Her suit clung to every curve on that gorgeous body. Her erect nipples... damn, she needed more suit.
He adjusted the lump in his jeans and studied the wedding proof. After he decided which proof he liked best, he left.
Once the security system was fixed, Steven sat in his office and stared at the calendar. "I've known Leya for twenty-three days. How could I fall in love with her so fast?"
| Author Notes | Thank you Swank Photography for your bathing beauty. Sorry, this is longer than I usually post, but I couldn't really find a place to break it. Thank you to everyone who reads and supports me. |
By barbara.wilkey
This chapter is setting background for future posts.
As Leya moved containers around inside the refrigerator, Steven asked, "Hungry?"
She jumped and bumped her head on the door. "I'm sorry."
"I'm sorry I startled you. Did you hurt yourself?"
"No." She shook her head.
Steven turned on the light. "What's wrong? It's more than me coming up behind you."
"It's almost midnight. I'd better go to my room."
"Why?" He rubbed the back of his neck. "I saved some dinner." He took out a plate and set it in the microwave. "Now, tell me what's really going on."
"I missed dinner, so I assumed I wasn't allowed to eat."
"What?"
"While growing up, if any of us missed a meal for any reason, my father wouldn't allow us to eat until the next meal. Once at the other house, Jim told Peggy since she was late to breakfast she was out of luck."
"I'm in charge of this house and anybody can eat whenever they're hungry. As for Jim and Peggy, if she missed breakfast there probably wasn't any left, but she still could have fixed herself something." He thought for a moment. "You've gotten food for your cat?"
"He was starving and doesn't eat very much. He only eats scraps; that's different." She rubbed her stomach. "I'm not starving, just hungry."
"What punishment did your dad impose on somebody for taking food from the kitchen?"
She stared at the floor.
When the microwave beeped, Steven removed the plate and handed it to her. "You don't need to answer, I understand. Let's sit at the table." He held the chair as she sat. "Don't ever be afraid to help yourself to something to eat." He paused before he added, "You don't need to be afraid of anything while in this house."
"Only teasing, right?" She took a bite of chicken. "This is as good as it smells."
"You'll be teased, but like I said before, teasing means they like you. No one in this house would ever hurt you."
Ralph walked into the dining room and growled, "What's all the noise about in the middle of the night?"
Steven shook his head. "I just told Leya that she doesn't need to be afraid of anyone and you start growling."
Ralph bent down and squeezed Leya's shoulder as he gave her a hug. "She knows I'm loud, but harmless."
Leya reached up and squeezed his hand. "He's a big teddy bear."
Steven chuckled. "I'm not sure we're talking about the same man."
Ralph walked away shaking his head.
Steven's hand covered Leya's. "You know I'd never hurt you, don't you?"
When she didn't answer, Steven started worrying as she stood, took the plate of half-eaten food to the kitchen, took another bite, and said, "I'm going to my room."
He held her arm. "Leya?" After a deep breath, he continued, "I'd never hurt you."
Their eyes met. She swallowed before she said, "I know you'd never physically hurt me, but there are other ways to hurt somebody." She went to her room.
Steven stood in the kitchen trying to understand what she meant. Wanting to ask, he decided to wait until morning.
*****
Unable to sleep, Steven thought about Leya's comment. As he stared out the bedroom window, he repeated, "There's other ways to hurt somebody. What did she mean by that?"
Early the following morning, Steven paced the hall outside Leya's bedroom, waiting for her to wake up. He was upset when he received a call from Matt saying he was needed for a meeting at Task Force 385. He'd have to wait until evening to talk with Leya.
| Author Notes | Thank you Swank Photography for the beautiful artwork. Thank you for reviewing and your continued support. I value your input. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER ELEVEN
When Steven returned to the safe house from his meeting, the men had already sat at the table for dinner. Steven searched around the room. "Where's Leya?"
"I knocked on her door and told her dinner was ready. She should be coming any minute." Jim glanced toward the hallway. "How was your meeting?"
"Very informative, I received updates on the drug cartels." Steven smiled as he watched Leya enter the dining room. He assisted her with the chair and whispered, "We need to talk after dinner."
Leya's eyebrows rose. "What about?"
Steven winked at her, but continued the discussion with the team, "Matt has discovered the man I stabbed while rescuing Emily wasn't Carlos' cousin, but his half brother. It seems Carlos' father had at least one extramarital affair."
He watched for Leya's reaction as he said, "Not only has the Vegas family sworn to kill Leya on sight, but they and the Martinez family also put a hit on me." He accepted a bowl of salad from Ralph and passed it to Leya. "There's a $25,000 bounty on each of our heads."
After a gulp, Leya whispered, "I'm not surprised. These are common orders for anyone who crosses my father or his associates." She looked at Steven. "I'm surprised the bounty isn't higher on you for all the trouble Matt's team has caused." Folding her napkin, she set it beside her place setting. "If you don't mind, I'm going to my room." She left the table.
*****
Before she shut the door, she heard Steven's voice, "Leya, wait, I need to speak with you."
"Yes?" She stood at her door, without turning toward him.
"May I come in? We need to talk privately."
"I guess," she said, but hesitated before entering her room.
After closing the door, Steven sat in the chair beside the wall. There was a long pause, before he said, "You admitted last night you knew I'd never physically hurt you, but you said there were other ways to hurt somebody. Are you afraid I might hurt you in some other way?"
She walked over to the window and stared out. "I wish I was as free as that squirrel." She folded her arms across her chest. "This view is OK. The other safe house had a better one, but I can hear crickets and bullfrogs better from this window."
After a few moments of silence, he asked, "Why are you avoiding my question?"
She turned away from the window, but avoided his overpowering green eyes. "The reason I don't want to answer the question is partly the answer to it."
He stood. "Now that really confuses me. Please explain." He walked to her, took her hand, and led her to the bed. "Let's sit."
As she sat, he continued, "We've been honest with each other and have discussed almost everything, no matter how embarrassing. I don't want us to stop talking. Do you?"
"No." She inhaled a deep breath.
He lifted her chin and searched her eyes. "But what?"
"You're not going to give up, are you?"
"I care too much for you to allow you to quit being open." He caressed her hand with his thumb. "Talk to me."
"I'm afraid you could emotionally hurt me."
He swallowed and then cleared his throat. "Please continue."
She carefully chose her words before she continued, "I know my background prevents our relationship from ever becoming serious but I've grown very fond of you. It would hurt if I lost our friendship."
"I'm very fond of you also and I'd be hurt if I lost your friendship." He squeezed her hand. "I'm not planning on going anywhere. Are you?"
She smiled and glanced around the room. "No, I guess not. I'm pretty much stuck here."
Steven stood and teased, "That's true. I'd better get back. The men are probably cracking jokes about why I've been in here so long. I'll see you in the morning."
Leya walked him to the door. "Good night."
As Steven exited the door, he turned and their eyes met. The yearning for the forbidden kiss became irresistible. Their hypnotized bodies gave in to the magnetizing attraction and they crept closer. Their lips merged. Steven fulfilled the passion he'd withheld, unable to deny the love he felt. This can't happen she needs rest.
Steven wrapped his arms around Leya and drew her closer as their bodies melted together. She parted her lips beckoning for more. His tongue entwined with hers as her flowery sweet scent enticed his senses. "You need rest."
The back of Leya's legs touched the edge of the mattress, as she whispered, "Your love will heal me."
Steven's kisses left her lips and crept down her neck. As the promise of fulfilled love engulfed Steven, his heart pounded.
Lowering the neck of Leya's T-shirt, he kissed southward down her cleavage.
Leya slightly arched her back and started to remove the T-shirt.
He placed his hands over hers and whispered, "Let me. As I undress you, I want to enjoy every inch of your beautiful body."
Slowly, he raised her T-shirt, kissing, nipping her stomach, and caressing her deep olive, delicate skin. When the shirt was even with her breasts, he eased it over her head, slipped his hand under the bra, and fondled her breasts.
Leya, without hesitation, unbuttoned the buttons of his shirt, and her hands outlined each defined muscle of his chest and fingered his nipples. Leya continued until every button was undone and his chest was familiar. Leaning forward she pushed the shirt from his shoulders.
Desires raged within his steeled member. I'd better slow down. Steven kissed and caressed the area surrounding her bra. Finally, he raised her enough to slip his hand under her and freed the hooks.
Exposing her abundant breasts, he dropped the bra to the floor; his heart pounded, as he caressed her breasts. Finally. Pausing, he stared into her eyes as he raised himself and whispered, "I love you." After circling each nipple with his tongue, he suckled the right breast while massaging the left one. He paused, kissing her lips, before switching breasts.
Leya nibbled and massaged Steven's chest, as soft whispers of satisfaction escaped her lips.
A moan louder than the rest, caused Steven to leave her breasts. "So you like that?"
She closed her eyes, releasing a deep breath. "Oh yes."
His lips slid down her toned stomach until he came to the waistband of her jeans. He mouthed the button and glanced up for approval. After Leya nodded, he unfastened her jeans and then unzipped them, exposing a white lace thong with only traces of black pubic hair peaking through. Hummm, bikini ready.
As he lowered the jeans, his tongue outlined the edge of the remaining piece of cloth. Kneeling at the foot of the bed, he licked and suckled each toe.
Leya scooted down to the foot of the bed, unfastened his belt, and then unzipped his jeans. Lowering his jeans and boxer briefs, she rotated her thumb over the slit.
Lifting her to the head of the bed, Steven fingered the strap of her thong before he pulled it off. He devoured the sight before him. She's more beautiful than I ever imagined.
As Leya sat up, Steven groaned. She moved her long black curly hair behind her shoulders, exposing both breasts. He lowered himself to her mound. After he spread her lips, she lay back in the bed and spread her legs. As he licked and sucked, she succumbed to the pleasure.
There's no way she's a virgin. When her passion became uncontrollable, Steven crawled on top. He continued massaging between her legs before he entered her. When he felt a membrane, he halted.
Leya groaned. "No!"
Never expecting that, he raised himself and inserted two fingers. I've never been with a virgin. He kissed her lips, before he said, "Leya, what now?"
She reached for and gripped his member, moving her hand up and down. "Continue."
He massaged between her legs, preparing her. When she could no longer control her hunger, he entered her pushing through the membrane. She gasped at his invasion. "Steven!"
"It'll stop hurting." He lowered his mouth to her lips in a reassuring kiss.
Leya blew out a deep breath, as her eyes met his. "Don't stop."
He began to rapidly thrust in her. When she arched to meet his movements, he stroke even faster. They moved in cadence to the dance of old. He lowered his hand to stroke her where their bodies merged causing her to stiffen as she climaxed. His lips covered hers. "Shh, this house has ears."
Unable to hold back any longer, he erupted and kissed her before he whispered, "We're officially married."
It took a few moments for him to compose himself, then he released a deep breath before he moved from her and scooted Leya to his side. She placed her head on his chest and fingered his muscles and nipples.
Steven's hand caressed her back and soon lowered to her rear-end. Leya moved her leg across Steven's.
She leaned up and kissed him, before she mounted his shaft.
"Whoa tiger, I knew making love with you would be enjoyable, but you need to rest. Please explain how a virgin can be so knowledgeable in the art of making love?" He placed his hands on her hips and moved them up and down on his member.
"I read a lot." Her breathing became heavier.
His body joined the rhythm. "You learned that in a book?"
"You want to read the same books?" She closed her eyes as moans escaped her lips.
"You think I need to read a book, huh?" His thrusts became stronger.
"You wrote it. I'm ..." her voice trailed off as she climaxed.
| Author Notes | I am very nervous about this post. Please be gentle. Thank you for all my fans. I know I have said this before, but I could not do this without all of your support. Thank you for MKPHOTO for sharing your artwork "At The Edge". |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
Steven and Leya finally made love.
Cuddled into Steven's chest, Leya whispered, "Steven, you're a Task Force 385 team chief and a major in the United States Army, and I'm a drug lord princess. Now we're officially married."
He ran his fingers through his short auburn hair and kissed her. "I know. I'm not sorry either. Are you?"
"No, but what's our relationship going to do to your career? My family has already disowned me, so our marriage won't cause me any problems." Leya held up her arm and stared at it, before showing it to Steven. "My skin tone is different from yours."
He caressed her arm before kissing it. "I'm aware we have a slightly different ethnical background. You're a combination of Spanish and Amerindian. I'm a combination of Irish and German. We were raised with different cultural backgrounds, but I fail to see the problem."
He brushed a curl from her cheek. "Matt's already said he'd support any decision I made concerning you." He answered her questioning look, "Don't ask how he knew, but he did."
She studied his face. "You're sure we didn't just make a huge mistake."
"I'm positive."
After she kissed him, they held each other in a loving embrace, which developed into sensuous lovemaking.
As they lay in each other's arms, Steven asked, "After all this mess is over, are you planning to go back to Yale?"
"How did you know? I've never said anything."
Steven closed his eyes and sighed. "A few days ago, Matt released a background check he'd run on you. We needed to make sure you weren't the mole."
Her black eyes darkened revealing anger. "Did it tell you in December of 2000 I broke a fingernail on my right hand?" She held it for him to see.
"Nope, but it did tell me you dropped out of the premed program to help your great aunt when she got ill. I also know you're very well educated. And I know you wear lace thong underwear, but the background check didn't tell me that." He hoped teasing would ease her mood.
She rolled onto her back and yanked the blanket under her chin. "It's not fair you know everything about me and I know nothing about you."
"That's easy to fix. I was born in upstate rural New York. I have one older brother, who's active duty Marines. He's married with three children, two boys and a girl. My parents were killed in a car accident when I was fifteen. My mother's parents raised me. I graduated from West Point eight years ago."
"That's where you met Peggy?"
"Yep, we met our freshman year. After graduation, I spent two years in the regular Army. That's where Matt recruited me. He was my team chief at that time." He grinned as he added, "Matt's like a big brother. We hit it off immediately and became close friends."
Leya turned onto her side and watched him talk. He rolled to his side and put his arms around her, drawing her closer. "Does that satisfy your curiosity?"
"It's a start. What about former girl friends?"
He grinned. "Your background check never mentioned anything about the men in your life."
She outlined his lips with her finger, then kissed them. "That's because there weren't any."
"I seriously doubt that. But I'll answer your question. I dated a few times in high school, but nothing serious. Especially once my parents died." He took a deep breath.
"At the academy ...." He paused in thought. "I had two girl friends, at the same time." He laughed as he continued, "Once they found out about each other, I didn't have any girlfriends. I discovered how jealous females can get and learned I'd better respect women."
He brushed a hair from Leya's cheek. "While in the Army, I dated one lady. She didn't like me being gone so often and we agreed to separate. Since I joined the Task Force, I haven't had time for a serious relationship."
"I find it difficult to believe someone as handsome as you doesn't have women pounding your door down."
"I've dated once in a while, but nobody seriously." He pulled her closer. "Now tell me about your assorted affairs. Someone as beautiful as you must have gone on a few dates. How old are you anyway?"
Her eyes widened. "The background check didn't list my birthday?"
"It probably did, but I didn't notice."
"I'm twenty-two. I was born January 15th." She smiled. "As for dates ...." She grinned, before she continued, "Since I went to all girl schools until college, dating was difficult. Plus the nuns kept a close eye on us, but I did manage to sneak away once in a while. I never seriously dated. My father made sure of that. If I dated a boy more than three times, somebody representing my family would visit and scare him off." She teased, "Are you going to get scared off?"
Steven chuckled. "Well, let's see. I'm still under the three date limit and we've never really been on a date." He kissed her before he lay on his back. "I have a feeling your father wouldn't approve of you lying naked beside me in bed, but I'm not afraid of him."
"You're a gringo. I'm positive he wouldn't approve of how you got me naked." She rose up on her knees and looked down at him. "I'd love to go back to school but I can't afford it. I don't have a job or any money. I'm sure my father won't pay my bills."
He leaned up enough to kiss her. "I'm sure something will work out so you can continue your education. It may not be Yale, but there are other good schools." He kissed her, before he added, "If you keep flaunting your beautiful breasts in front of me, I'll be forced to ...." He began suckling the nipple, as his hands engulfed and massaged them. "To do this."
Stopping, he sighed. "As much as I'd like to make love again, you have to be completely worn out. You're still weak from yellow fever and only got a few hours of sleep."
Steven kissed her, then lay down. "Come here." When Leya put her head on his chest, he said, "I'll hold you while you sleep." He grinned and teased, "Then we'll make love again, before I leave."
She kissed his chest, but soon fell asleep.
While Leya slept, Steven held her. I know Hector Vegas is planning something. I wonder what. We'll have to be ready for anything. Can Matt save my job?
As the sun rose, Steven woke Leya. "I need to get to work before the men wonder what I've been doing all night. Will I see you at breakfast?"
She nodded and grinned. "I have a feeling they've already figured it out."
"You're probably right." He grinned. "Go back to sleep, sleepy head. I'll check on you in a few hours." He kissed her, before he exited the door.
*****
Ralph grinned. "Short honeymoon, uh?"
Steven knew the men would have plenty of comments and was ready. He stood behind his desk. "Just so there's no confusion, Leya and I are officially married. I expect her to be treated accordingly. In other words watch your comments around her."
Jim teased, "Damn, so the date I planned for Saturday night is cancelled."
Steven shook his head and knew this was only the beginning. "Let's try to get some work done. Is there anything that needs my immediate attention?"
Ralph handed him an intelligence report. "This came in last night. I didn't think you wanted to be bothered." He covered his mouth as he chuckled.
Steven read it and sighed. "So the Martinez Cartel is responsible for Geoff's accident and for selling the 90% pure cocaine inside the U.S. I wonder how involved Carlos is in running the cartel. I'll be at the Task Force building most of the morning." Before he left, he went to tell Leya that he was leaving.
*****
After Steven kissed her goodbye, she lay in bed until she heard the helicopter leave. She then put on a robe and went to Steven's office.
Ralph walked in behind her. "Congratulations on your marriage. Can I help you with something?"
"Would you call General Patterson and ask him to send a doctor. I need to speak with one."
He picked up the telephone and dialed Matt's number as he asked Leya, "Not feeling well?"
Before Leya could answer, Matt answered and agreed to send a doctor. Leya rushed to her room, hoping to avoid any questions.
When the doctor arrived, Ralph escorted him to Leya's bedroom. Ralph attempted to stay, but Leya asked him to leave.
Alone with the doctor, Leya said, "I need documentation that I'm no longer a virgin."
| Author Notes | Thank you Jorge Gaete for the beautiful artwork that expresses Steven and Leya's love. Thank you again for your reviews and support. Word can not express how much I appreciate them. |
By barbara.wilkey
Background:
Steven and Leya make their marriage official.
Steven finished his work at the Task Force building and attempted to contact the pilot to bring him back to the safe house. When he had no luck, he called Matt, "Where's the helicopter?"
"A doctor was needed at the safe house."
"What happened? Is Leya all right?" Steven gulped.
"Leya requested a doctor." Matt paused, before he continued, "I just assumed you knew."
Leya's lack of sleep last night has caused complications from the yellow fever. I should have made sure she rested. Steven closed his eyes and took deep breaths.
Matt procured another helicopter for Steven. When the helicopter landed, Steven ran to Leya's bedroom, stood in the doorway, and listened, as Leya asked the doctor, "Could you mail this documentation that confirms I'm no longer a virgin to these addresses?"
She handed the doctor a piece of paper with two addresses on it; her father, Hector Vegas, and Carlos Martinez, her former fiance'. "It needs to go special delivery with a confirmation receipt. Please make sure the documentation states the sex was consensual. I don't want anyone to have the impression it wasn't."
She finished writing, slowly folded the paper, and handed it to him. "Please add this letter with the documentation to my father." She hesitated, then said, "I don't have any money for the postage."
"Don't worry about the postage," he offered. "I'll bill Task Force for it. It'll be in today's mail. It should be delivered by tomorrow or the following day for sure."
"Thank you for understanding, and I'm sorry about the postage."
As the doctor turned toward the door, Steven took some money from his jeans pocket and handed it to the doctor. "This should cover the postage." Steven's green eyes glared at Leya as he stood in the doorway, before he called over his shoulder, "Jim, escort the doctor to the helicopter."
She gulped and walked toward him. "Steven, I can explain."
Steven waited silently until he heard the doctor leave the house, then yelled, "I risked everything for you! My career could be ruined. You knew that and still used me! I thought you cared at least a little. Man, I'm a sucker!" As he turned to leave, he threw a chocolate caramel candy bar and a slip of paper to the floor.
Leya ran to him. "Steven, wait! I can explain!"
"I don't want to listen to your lies." Steven rushed passed Ralph and snapped, "You're in charge. I need time alone." He slammed the front door hard enough to break a window and set off an alarm.
Leya tried to follow but wasn't fast enough. "Steven, I love you." She fell to the floor sobbing.
| Author Notes |
I want to thank Speo24 for the nice artwork.
I hope you all have a nice holiday. I had computer issues the beginning of the week and my parents are here for a few days so I am really busy. I want to thank all my fans for your support. |
By barbara.wilkey
BACKGROUND:
Steven and Leya made love, but things haven't worked out since.
CHAPTER TWELVE
Steven paced his apartment floor, before he called Matt and listened as Matt asked, "Is Leya all right?"
"Leya's just fine. She has exactly what she wanted." Steven took a deep breath, before he continued, "Our only assignment right now is protecting Leya. The men can handle that. I've saved over ninety days of leave. Can I take vacation time?"
"Where you going?"
"I'd like to go fishing at the Task Force cabin outside of Jackson Hole, Wyoming."
"I hear the fish are biting. The cabin's been vacant for about two months. If you need anything, let me know." Matt hesitated before he added, "If you need to talk, you know where to find me."
"My flight leaves at 0900 hours tomorrow. I'll be gone at least a week, maybe longer."
"Take whatever time you need. Ralph can handle whatever comes up, and I'll send Joe around to ensure things run smoothly."
*****
After Matt hung up, he called Ralph. "What's going on? Honeymoons last longer than a day."
"I don't know. The fight had something to do with why Leya wanted the doctor." Ralph paused before he said, "Leya tried to explain, but Steven wouldn't listen and stormed out."
"How's Leya handling the situation?"
"She's in bed."
"I'm on my way." Matt felt he had overstepped the boundary of Chief of Task Force 385, but had hand picked Steven and they had become close friends through the years. Men act stupid when it comes to the woman they love. I need to give Steven some time.
At the safe house, Matt knocked on Leya's bedroom door. When she didn't answer, he opened the door and entered. She was lying on her stomach wearing a robe, hugging her pillow, and sobbing.
As he sat on the edge of the bed, he put his hand on her back and gently stroked it. "Leya, I'd like to help but I don't know what happened."
Through her sobs, she said, "Steven ... left ... me."
He searched the room. Now what? He brushed her damp, black, curly hair from her cheek. "I think you'd feel better if you showered, dressed, and ate something." He lifted her arm and turned her toward him. "While you're showering, I'll get you something to eat." He helped her stand. "After you've eaten, we'll talk and try to figure out some way to solve this problem. Deal?"
Leya nodded and walked slowly toward the bathroom.
Matt stayed in the kitchen until he was certain Leya had dressed. When he knocked on the door, she whispered, "Come in."
He set a tray of food on her nightstand.
She glanced toward the food. "I'm not hungry."
"At least drink some hot tea. Silea, my mother-in-law, swears hot tea can solve any problem."
She took a few sips. "Thank you." She was silent for a few seconds. "How's Emily?"
"Growing like a weed. I bet she'll grow another inch while I'm visiting with you."
Leya gave a small smile.
Matt saw the chocolate candy bar and a slip of paper on the floor. He picked them up. "I'm guessing Steven brought this from town."
"I'm not sure." She motioned with her hand how Steven had reacted. "He was so angry he threw them on the floor as he left."
Matt laid the candy bar on the tray, then glanced at the slip of paper. "It looks like he ordered some wedding photos." He held the receipt out for her to see.
When she ignored him, he set it on the nightstand and picked up a piece of toast. "Try this." She took the toast from him and nibbled as he asked, "What made Steven angry?"
Moisture filled her eyes. "He wouldn't give me a chance to explain. If I ...." Tears rolled down her cheeks.
Matt put his arms around her. "Everything will work out. Give him time to calm down."
After a moment, she said, "He won't calm down unless he understands why I did what I did. He thinks I used him. He doesn't know I love him. I never got the chance to tell him."
"Leya, what did you do?" She's not capable of doing anything that bad. She must be exaggerating.
Leya dried her cheeks and took a deep breath. "Remember when you came to my father's hacienda to get me?" He nodded, and she continued, "You walked in as Father slapped me." She rubbed her cheek where the bruise had been. "He slapped me because he suspected I'd lied to him." She stared at the floor.
"Lied about what?" What does this have to do with Steven leaving? If she's anything like Dani, she'll eventually get to the point. I need to let her talk.
"The day before, he'd received our marriage certificate. When I confronted him as to why he'd taken his anger out on Mother, he said because if she'd taught me better values, I would've done what was best for the family and wouldn't have married a gringo."
She paused and blew out a deep breath. "He actually said I wouldn't have spread my legs for a gringo. I ignored his insult and told him I was married and it wasn't Mother's fault. I told him he couldn't do anything about it."
Leya took time to blow her nose. "He studied my face and somehow realized Steven and I weren't completely husband and wife. He smiled and made a comment about me still being able to marry Carlos once he had my marriage annulled. I told him he couldn't annul the marriage, because I wasn't a virgin. He slapped me and called me a liar. That's when you walked in."
"How did this come between you and Steven?"
"I never told Steven about that conversation." She turned from Matt, before she continued, "After Steven and I," she closed her eyes, before she added, "made love, I called the doctor for documentation that I wasn't a virgin. I had him send copies to Father and Carlos. I told him to make sure he stated it was consensual. I wanted them to know Steven didn't rape me."
She studied her hands. "I sent a letter to Father and told him I had married for love and was very happy. As I gave the doctor instructions where to send everything, Steven walked in. Steven thinks I only made love with him so I wouldn't be a virgin. He thinks I used him."
"Why didn't you tell Steven about the conversation with your dad?"
"I'm sure Steven told you I had tried to seduce him so I wouldn't have to marry Carlos."
"He did, that's why he married you in the first place."
"Right. After we were married, I quit trying. Steven and I were getting along, and then I fell in love with him. I no longer had a reason to seduce him. I thought if I told him what Father said, he'd think I was still trying."
She dried the tears streaming down her cheeks. "I knew as long as we stayed married Father couldn't force me to marry Carlos. If there came a time when Steven wanted to get the marriage annulled, I'd figure out what to do then."
"Everything's a lot clearer now."
"General Patterson, sorry, I mean Matt. When Steven and I made love it was spontaneous."
"I know, and with time Steven will know it too. But I can understand why he's hurt and angry."
"He was just beginning to trust me. Now he'll never trust me."
"He'll need time to lick his wounds. I'm certain his male ego took a huge hit. Exactly what did he say when he left?"
"I knew he'd risk his career for me but still used him." She paused to take a deep breath. "He said he'd been a sucker and I never cared for him."
Matt cringed. "I'll talk with him and see if I can lessen his pain." He stood and glanced toward the door. "Stay here. The men will make certain you're safe. After I talk with Steven, I'll let you know how it went."
"Thank you."
When Matt walked into Steven's office, Ralph stared at him. "How serious is it?"
Matt shook his head. "I'm not sure Steven can ever trust Leya again."
"Did she relay information to her family?"
"No, this is about their relationship. It has nothing to do with Task Force business." Matt turned and left.
| Author Notes | Thank you MKPHOTO for your beautiful artwork The Broken Hallelujah. I hope it represents how lonely Leya feels. Once again I would like to thank you for your reviews. Without my fans, I could not do this. I appreciate each one of you. Thank you. |
By barbara.wilkey
Steven had closed and zipped his suitcase when he answered the doorbell. In front of him stood Peggy. She held two medium pizzas and a case of beer. She pushed her way past him, plopping on the davenport. Steven glanced at the empty porch and then at Peggy.
"I hear you're single, again." A smile lit her face. "I knew that marriage wouldn't last."
"News travels fast." He ran his fingers through his short hair. "What are you doing here? I thought you were in jail."
She tore the cardboard surrounding the case of beer. "I'm out on bail and thought you'd like company."
"Not really, you should leave." He pointed at the open door. How did she walk past me anyway?
She opened the box of pizza. "If I remember right, Canadian bacon is your favorite."
"You should leave," he repeated, as he again stared toward the porch.
She patted the cushion beside her. "Have a seat and some pizza." She lifted a slice of pizza toward him. "I'll open a beer." As he sat, she popped the tab and handed it to him. She reached for the remote control and turned on the TV. "Not football, but baseball's the second best sport."
When Steven finished one beer, Peggy placed another can in his hand. By the seventh inning, Peggy drank too much and Steven was drunk.
When the game ended, Steven attempted to turn off the TV, but he struggled using the remote control.
Peggy giggled. "I'll turn it off." She swaggered to the TV. When she returned, she sat on Steven's lap facing him, one leg on each side of his body.
As she kissed him, he clumsily pushed her away and his speech slurred. "Cut it out! What are you doing? You need to get out."
"I'm getting your mind off what's her name." As she unbuttoned his shirt, the telephone rang.
Steven reached over to answer it. "Peg, stop. Leave--me--alone." With the receiver to his ear, he said, "Hello."
"Steven, you all right?" asked Matt.
"Yeah."
"Are you alone?"
"No, Peg's here." He swiped Peggy's hand away. "What are you doing?" He stared at the receiver, then answered Matt, "She's taking her shirt off." He pushed her away. "Stop."
She responded by giggling, "I'm going to show you what a real woman's like."
Matt yelled, "Steven, I'm on my way."
*****
Matt and Joe walked into Steven's apartment without knocking and found Peggy still on Steven's lap.
Joe picked her T-shirt from the floor and lifted Peggy off Steven, "I'll help you home." He held out the T-shirt. "Put this on."
"Leave me alone. I want to stay, and Steven wants me to stay. Don't you?"
"No, I want you to get."
"Joe, take her home," interrupted Matt. "Stay with her until she's asleep. It shouldn't take long."
Steven tried to focus on Matt. "Is that you, Matt? When did you get here?"
"Not soon enough. How much have you had to drink?"
"One beer, but my can never emptied."
As Joe helped Peggy out the door, Matt glared at her. He felt Peggy got Steven drunk, trying to manipulate him into having sex.
"OK buddy. I need to talk to you about Leya, but now's not the time. We'll talk later."
As Matt helped him to bed, Steven said, "Leya's my wife. Why do women use men?"
"Peggy uses men. Leya's only mistake was not telling you the whole story. We'll talk in the morning."
*****
Matt slept on the couch. When he woke up, he realized Steven would never make his 0900 hours flight and called the airline to change the flight to 1700 hours.
When Steven opened his eyes, he groaned in pain. Matt heard him and stood in the bedroom doorway.
"Matt, what are you doing here and what happened?" Steven rubbed his head.
"How much do you remember?"
"Peggy pushed her way past me with pizza and beer." He shook his head. "I take it Peggy had something to do with my headache."
"I'm guessing she made sure you always had a full beer, then she tried to have sex with you."
Steven glared at Matt. "She didn't, did she?"
"No, Joe took her home."
"Are you saying if Joe wouldn't have taken her home, we would have?"
"No. You were stopping her. You look relieved, why?"
"I'm married," he paused, before adding, "at least for now." He stared at the floor.
"If you weren't married, would you've had sex with Peggy?"
"No. She's never been more than a friend."
Matt took a deep breath. "I spoke with Leya."
"I'm not interested in anything Leya has to say."
"I know you're angry and hurt. Right now, you're in no shape to discuss your marriage, but you'll need to speak either with Leya or with me. She deserves the opportunity to explain."
"I'm going to shower." He walked to the bathroom and closed the door.
Matt called after him. "She's your wife and you're going to have to deal with her at some point. This marriage can't be annulled."
*****
When Steven walked into the living room, he saw Matt sitting at the table drinking a cup of coffee.
Steven poured a cup. "I see you made yourself at home."
"You can't seem to take care of yourself, so I thought I'd better make sure you get safely to the airport." He took a sip of coffee.
"Sorry about last night. I knew Peggy was trouble and got careless. I was numb and not thinking clearly."
"Understandable. I've been known to make stupid mistakes where women are concerned."
Steven sat at the table, took a drink of coffee, and stared at Matt. He started to say something, but changed his mind.
"Are you in love with Leya?" asked Matt.
"Yes, that's why it hurts so much. I think I'll always love her."
"I don't know if it'll help or not, but Leya's just as miserable. She loves you."
Steven hit the table with his fist and coffee sloshed from his cup. "How can she love me? She took advantage of me at the first opportunity."
"While you were on your honeymoon, did you talk?" Steven nodded, so Matt asked, "What about?"
"We talked about growing up; how our heritages were different. Things like that."
"Did you tell Leya you loved her?"
He thought, then said, "I don't remember using those words, but she knows."
"How should she know? Read your mind?"
After a gulp, Steven hung his head. "What did she say?"
Matt poured coffee in each cup. "Do you remember Hector Vegas slapping Leya at the hacienda in Colombia?"
Steven nodded. "He hit her hard enough it almost knocked her down. Her cheek was bruised for over a week."
"Leya was slapped for lying to her dad about being a virgin. He mentioned something about getting the marriage annulled and continuing with the plans for her to marry Martinez."
"Why didn't she tell me?"
"Because she didn't want you thinking she was still trying to seduce you. Bottom line is, she fell in love with you and wanted you to trust her. She felt if you knew about that conversation, you'd still think she was using you."
Steven rubbed the back of his neck. "It doesn't make sense. Why'd she send the documentation to her dad?"
"I'm not sure, but she also sent a letter telling him she was in love and happily married. I think she did it hoping he'd give up and leave everybody alone, especially you. I'm no expert on why women do what they do. Anyway, the only thing she's guilty of is not telling you about that conversation."
Matt was silent as he stood. "When the two of you made love, did it feel like she was using you or in love with you?"
"Either she's the world's greatest actress or she's in love with me. When we were talking about our future, it seemed genuine."
"I told Leya I'd talk with you, then get back with her. What do you want me to tell her?"
He took a deep breath. "Tell her I'm taking a vacation and we'll talk when I get back. Everything has moved so fast and I need time to think things through."
"Fair enough. I'll drive you to the airport."
*****
After Matt left the airport, he went to speak with Leya. "Steven admitted he loves you, I think he understands the explanation. He'll talk with you when he returns in a week. Can you wait that long?"
"Yes, I can explain everything then. Did he really say he loves me?"
"He did. I think he'd like hearing you love him, too."
Leya's cheeks turned a healthy pink. "I can say that."
"I need to get to work. If you need anything, Ralph will contact me." He kissed her cheek and went to Steven's office. The men had already heard about Peggy's visit and joked about it as they asked Matt for details.
*****
Leya paced her room for a few minutes, then decided to ask if she could call her mother. She was about to enter Steven's office but stopped when she overheard the men's jokes and questions about Peggy. She also heard them ask if Peggy was on her way to the Task Force cabin.
Matt teased, "You'll have to get the details about Peggy's visit from Steven. I hope he didn't accidentally tell her he'd be staying at the Task Force cabin outside of Jackson Hole." He rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm sure Steven learned his lesson and won't be so careless the next time Peggy knocks."
Leya ran to her room. When Matt said Steven promised to discuss things when he returned, I could wait. The situation has changed, Peggy's in the picture, and there's no way I'll allow Peggy to get her clutches into Steven.
*****
Before Matt left, he thought he'd better check on Leya. When she answered her door, she blurted out, "How much of a threat is Peggy to my marriage?"
"How'd you find out about last night?"
She let out a sigh. "I came down to ask if I could call Mother and overheard the men."
He took her hand in his. "Peggy isn't a threat to you. Steven was upset and got careless. He's sorry it happened." As he turned to leave, he smiled and said, "I'll tell Ralph to help you call your mother."
"Thank you."
As she got ready for bed, fears about Peggy reconstructed themselves in her mind. If Peggy had made advances toward my father, he would've obliged her. I need to do something and fast.
| Author Notes | Thank you Pucker for the perfect artwork to describe Peggy. I know this is a long post. Thank you for taking time to read and review it. I didn't think it could really be broken up. I couldn't leave Leya in the dark. Thank you for my fans. I love you all. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
After pacing for hours, Leya decided she needed to speak with Steven. The cabin is somewhere around Jackson Hole, WY. I'll need money for a flight. She rubbed her forehead. When I used Steven's computer, I saw some cash in an envelope. If I take it, they'll think I'm a thief. Maybe if I leave an IOU it won't look as bad.
She said aloud, "How do I find a Task Force cabin near Jackson Hole? If I ask the men, they'll wonder why I'm asking. I wonder if there's a map in Steven's office."
As she opened the door, she remembered a conversation she had with Jim. Someone is on duty during the night. How am I going to sneak by the guard and the security system? Maybe the system is set up only to monitor somebody entering the house. Yea, right! She laughed.
She dressed in the short, denim skirt, sheer blouse, and spike heels she had worn when she first met Steven. If my plan fails, I'll leave on my own. I don't want to take anything that doesn't belong to me. I'll repay the credit card charge for the flight to Colombia and the money I take tonight.
"First I need to disable the security system." Leya crept to the basement. As she watched the monitors and studied the computer, she noticed Derek on the front porch. She hoped he'd finish so she could exit through the front door. After studying each key, she figured out how to shut down the system without setting off alarms.
Leya removed her shoes as she walked up the basement stairs. In the hall, she saw Derek walk past the kitchen window and knew he was in the backyard. Knowing she needed to hurry, she rushed to Steven's office.
Steven had set up his desk the same as he did at the previous safe house, and the money was in the same desk drawer. She counted $450. That should be enough. She put it inside her skirt pocket. The rest of the money remained in the drawer with an IOU.
After searching the desk for an address to the cabin, she found a file labeled 'Task Force 385 Vacation Property'. She took it, hoping to find the address inside.
Inside the drawer, she noticed a cell phone and shoved it into a pocket. Before she left, she wrote a note and asked Jim to take care of Oscar.
With tears in her eyes, she walked out the front door. I know the risk, but I can't let Peggy have Steven. Once out of range of the security fence, she stopped, put on her shoes, used the cell phone to call the airport, and made a reservation for eight-thirty the following morning.
*****
Leya walked until she came to a gas station and called a taxi. While waiting, she called her mother, "Hi. I wanted to hear your voice."
"It's late. Are you all right?" asked Senora Vegas.
"Yes, I'm fine. I guess I'm a little homesick and needed to hear your voice. I miss you." She wiped a tear rolling down her cheek. "I'd better go." She hung up before she confessed she'd run from the safe house and Steven had left her.
At the airport, she felt safe. Everywhere she looked, there were security guards, so she knew she'd be safe from her father. The men at the safe house wouldn't know she was gone until morning. After she got the boarding pass, she found the gate, and waited as she searched the file for the cabin.
Eventually she fell asleep, until the airport became crowded and noisy. While flying to Jackson Hole, she continued to flip the file for the address.
Just before the jet landed in Jackson Hole, she found the address. After a lengthy taxi ride, she stood in front of the cabin and stared toward the front door. Afraid to move any closer, she whispered, "What if Steven refuses to listen? What if he rejects me?" She took slow deep breaths.
Finally, she held her head high and threw her shoulders back. There's only one way to find out. She walked to the front door. The door was ajar and she heard a scuffle coming from inside. Just inside, she saw Steven's SIG Sauer 9mm lying on the floor and picked it up.
As her eyes adjusted to the light, she saw Steven crouched on the floor. Her father stood above him with a Berretta pointed at the base of Steven's head.
Steven noticed Leya. "Get out!"
Leya stood with her legs apart and pointed the 9mm at her father.
Hector never moved the gun, but addressed his daughter, "Leya?"
Nervously she demanded, "Father, drop the gun and let Steven go."
"Habla Espanola!" (Speak Spanish!)
Steven is fluent in Spanish, so it doesn't matter what language we speak. Father doesn't need anymore control over the situation. "No Father. I'm married to an American, so I am an American. I'll speak English." She stared in Steven's eyes and noticed his love and fear for her.
Steven addressed Hector, "Let Leya go. It's me you want."
Leya remained calm. "Father, let my husband go. He's done you no harm."
Hector glared into Leya's eyes. "You dishonored the family by marrying this gringo. Do you carry his baby?"
"No."
"Then there's no reason for him to live. I'll kill him and see if Carlos will accept you as his wife. Maybe if I offer him enough money, he'll forgive you. You're beautiful. You never shared this gringo's bed."
Leya's attempt to control her temper faded. "I'll never marry Carlos. I'll always love Steven. You can't force me to love anyone else." Her swallow caught in her throat and hurt. "I am not a virgin. I am Steven's wife."
Hector studied her eyes. "So he finally made you his wife. We'll see how much you love this gringo. I'll give you the count of five to shoot me. If you don't kill me, your gringo's dead."
Leya stared at Steven.
Steven whispered, "Leya, follow your heart. Do what you can live with."
As Leya shut her eyes, Hector laughed. "Even the gringo knows blood's stronger than love. What's love anyway? A romp between the sheets." He shouted, "Uno." (One) After a couple of seconds, he shouted, "Dos." (Two)
Leya opened her eyes understanding what she needed to do.
Her father shouted, "Tres." (Three) He laughed, taunting her.
She whispered, "Sorry Father, my love for Steven is stronger than my love for you." She pulled the trigger and then dropped the gun as she covered her eyes. The bullet hit her father. He fell to the floor. Blood gushed from his chest and mouth.
Tears streamed down her cheeks as she turned and ran from the cabin.
*****
Steven reached over and checked the fallen Don for a pulse - there was none. He ran to the door. "Leya, wait, don't leave." He tried to see which way she'd gone before he picked up the gun, took out his cell phone, and called Matt. "How'd Leya get all the way out here without any security?"
Matt laughed. "She's better than Dani about getting away from security. Dani just ran away from Joe. Leya escaped from all the men; including Ralph. Ralph called me four hours ago and told me she'd left.
"She took $450 from your desk, but left an IOU. She also took the Task Force 385 Vacation Property file and a cell phone. We knew where she headed and saw no reason to follow. We knew you wouldn't let anything happen to her. We prayed you'd continue your honeymoon."
"She shot Hector."
"We're on our way, but I'm sure she had reason and it's a clean shoot."
"It was."
"Where are Hector's men? It's unusual for him to be out by himself."
"His ego got the best of him. He thought he could kill a gringo by himself." He hesitated before he asked, "Do I need to stay or can I go after Leya?"
"Go after your wife. I'll process the crime scene. Once the news of Hector's death gets out, the cartel will want revenge." Before he said goodbye, he added, "I'll catch up with you as soon as possible. Be careful with Leya, she just killed her father for you. You just might want to tell her you love her."
Steven ran his hand through his auburn hair as he looked at Hector's body lying in a pool of blood and whispered, "Leya, my love, where'd you go?"
| Author Notes | Thank you catmal for the perfect artwork to describe the peaceful Task Force fishing cabin. |
By barbara.wilkey
When Steven arrived in the small nearby town, he walked the busy streets. She should suspect I'll come looking for her and she probably doesn't have much money. She'll need a place to sleep, so I'll start with the hotels. I don't have a photo of her. When he described her, mentioning her beauty, two of the hotel managers said she had asked about reserving a room. When she heard the cost, she had changed her mind.
Steven then checked a few restaurants, but no one had seen her. He needed time to think, he went inside a small cafe and ordered a cup of coffee. Within minutes, the local sheriff entered.
The tall lanky man sat beside Steven and started a conversation.
"Howdy. You're new around here."
"I'm just passing through. I'm looking for my wife. She left our cabin over by the south lake a few hours ago. We had a disagreement. Maybe you've seen her. She's petite, 5'2", weighs about 105 pounds, long black, curly hair, and large dark brown eyes, almost black."
After taking a sip of coffee, Steven continued, "She's wearing a short denim skirt, blue V-neck blouse, and three-inch spiked heels. She's a real looker. If you've seen her, you'd take a second or third look."
The sheriff rubbed his chin. "Is her name Leya Albright, by any chance?"
"Yes, I'm her husband, Steven Albright. Have you seen her?"
"No, but I know where she is. She checked into the women's shelter earlier this afternoon."
"Great. Where is it? I can't wait to end this silly disagreement."
The sheriff stood. "You're not going anywhere close to the women's shelter but you are coming with me. You're under arrest for spousal abuse." Before Steven realized what was happening, the sheriff handcuffed him.
Steven shook his head in disbelief. "What? There's been a mistake. I've never laid a hand on Leya. Not today or any day."
"That's not the story she told."
The sheriff took Steven's arms, but Steven yanked them away. "You don't need to use force. I'll go peacefully. I want this cleared up as much as you do."
Once Steven was behind bars in the small one room sheriff's station, he was handed a telephone. "Matt, you'll never believe this, but I've been arrested for spousal abuse. I'm in jail!"
Matt snickered. "If this wasn't so serious, it'd be funny. I can't leave you alone for a second, can I?"
"I'm glad you're enjoying this but I've never laid a hand on Leya."
"I'll let Joe and Ralph finish processing the crime scene. I'll be there in a few minutes. Try to stay out of trouble until I get there."
"I'm not going anywhere, I'm behind bars."
As Steven hung up, he heard Matt laughing.
*****
When Matt arrived, the sheriff explained, "A lady fitting the description Mr. Albright gave me, and calling herself Leya Albright, entered the women's shelter a few hours ago. She indicated her family was looking for her and if they found her they'd hurt her."
"Did she specifically state she was afraid of her husband?" asked Matt.
"The report I have states she said her family and he's part of her family."
Matt sighed. "Leya meant she's afraid of her biological family, not her husband."
"Mrs. Albright will have to come in tomorrow and identify her husband," said the sheriff. "If there's been a mistake, it can be taken care of then. But, as of now, he's spending the night behind bars."
*****
At breakfast the next morning, Amy Parks, the director of the women's shelter, said to Leya, "Your husband's been arrested."
"Steven's been arrested?" Leya inserted. "Why?" Her eyes widened.
"When you came into the shelter yesterday, you said you were afraid of your family. Remember?"
Leya set her fork down, unable to eat. "It's my uncles and brothers I'm afraid of, not my husband. He's never physically hurt me and never would. How can I fix this?"
"The sheriff's waiting for you at his office. I guess you can take care of everything there."
*****
When Leya entered the sheriff's office, Matt walked to her. "I'm sure this is a misunderstanding."
She stared at her feet. "I'm sorry. I've made another mistake. I never thought anyone would think Steven would physically hurt me. I told them I was afraid of my family. I guess they thought I meant my husband."
She cringed glancing at the gray steel bars. She swallowed hard when she saw Steven sitting on the small bed attached to the wall of the drab cell. She took a deep breath. Now, he'll be even angrier and he'll never forgive me.
Matt introduced her to the sheriff. Leya explained, "It's my uncles, brothers, and cousins I'm afraid of, not my husband. Steven could never hurt me. Yesterday ... I ... hum ...."
"I'm sorry, Mrs. Albright but I need to answer this," interrupted the sheriff as he answered the ringing telephone.
Matt led Leya aside. "Don't tell the sheriff about shooting your father. It's a Federal matter and civilians will only complicate the issue."
"I understand."
When the sheriff returned, he said, "Mrs. Albright, you were saying?"
"My uncles and brothers are upset because I married an American and are trying to force me to end the marriage." She used a heavy Hispanic accent, making certain the sheriff understood she wasn't an American.
The sheriff nodded toward Steven but asked Leya, "So the argument he mentioned was about you leaving in hopes to keep him safe from your family?"
Leya glanced at Steven expecting to see him glaring at her and was shocked to see love in his eyes. "Yes. Steven would never hurt me."
The sheriff took the set of keys from his top desk drawer and unlocked Steven's cell door. "I'm sorry for the inconvenience but I need to make sure these young ladies are protected. I won't allow men to beat women under my watch."
Steven shook his hand. "Thank you for releasing me. I'm glad you take your job seriously."
Leya looked out the front door. I don't want Steven yelling at me over my latest mistake. Since my first mistake, I've shot my father and now Steven's in jail. There's no way he'll forgive me now. She walked out the door.
| Author Notes | Thank you luvsGod for the artwork 'jail in the fog'. I think it gives my readers an idea of the small town jail where Steven spent the night. I, again, would like to thank my readers for their support. I appreciate each one of you. |
By barbara.wilkey
When Steven finished with the sheriff, he ran outside and stood in the center of the sidewalk. He looked to the right, then to the left. Where did Leya go?
Matt stood beside him. "You going after her?"
"Yep. I have some serious groveling to do." He took a deep breath. "All of this is my fault." He rubbed the back of his neck. "Peggy shouldn't have been in my apartment."
"But nothing happened."
"I know, but if I put myself in Leya's place, I'd be furious. Especially with everything that bitch put her through. If it would've had been anybody else, then things would be different--but Peggy!"
Steven spotted Leya crossing the street in the next block to his left. "There she is." He pointed in her direction.
Steven and Matt dodged cars rushing toward her. When Steven was within a half a block, his steps slowed. "Leya, we need to talk."
She stopped but kept her back to him.
When she didn't turn around, Steven moved closer, but hesitated.
Matt tapped his shoulder and motioned with his head for him to continue.
Steven spoke softly, "I'm sorry for not giving you the opportunity to explain. Hell, I'm genuinely sorry for everything I've done or that's happened the past three days. Everything that's happened is related to the poor choices I've made."
He gulped and then continued, "I know I've hurt you. Please accept my apology. If you can't, right now, at least give me the opportunity to beg for forgiveness."
She didn't turn around.
Steven blew out a deep breath. "Please turn around. I know your eyes can read my deepest thoughts. You'll see how much I love you." He waited. Silence. "Leya, please."
Hesitantly, she faced him.
His heart broke when he saw tears flowing down her cheeks. I caused that pain. When he stepped toward her, she backed away.
Leya whispered, "Please--don't come any closer." She glanced away from him. "You can say whatever you have to say from there."
"I love you. Please come home with me."
"I don't have a home."
"If you'll give us a chance, we'll build one together." He took off his jacket. "You're freezing. Where's your jacket?" I bought her one a few days ago.
"When I left the safe house, I didn't take anything I didn't come with, except for $450 and a cell phone." Fumbling through her purse, she held out the remainder of the cash and the cell phone. "Here's what I have left. I'll repay everything I spent, plus the money I spent on the plane ticket to Colombia."
She paused and closed her eyes. "I need to find a job first, so it'll take time. You can add any interest you feel's appropriate. I used the cell phone to make flight reservations and call my mother."
Steven shook his head and ran his fingers through his short hair. She's really leaving. "Don't worry about the money. I'll take care of it."
Matt interrupted him, "I've already put the money back in the Task Force fund."
Leya glanced at him. "Thank you. I'll make sure you're repaid."
"Don't worry about it." Matt's voice had a harsh tone.
Steven stepped closer to Leya, holding his jacket out. "Let me put this around you. You're shivering.
"No, I'm ...."
Before she had a chance to finish what she was about to say, she started to sway in a faint, but Steven grabbed her. "Get the car."
They drove to the nearest hospital.
*****
After the doctor examined her, he said, "Mrs. Albright fainted because she hasn't eaten in a few days and hasn't had enough sleep."
The two men sat in Leya's room. Steven sat on the right side of her bed and Matt on the left. Steven took her hand in his, and his breath caught in his throat as he watched her lying so still and silent in bed. "Matt?" When his friend looked in his direction, Steven asked, "How'd we get to this point and what do I do now?"
"You got here because of your male ego. It tends to get us in a lot of trouble. You've already apologized, so I guess you keep it up and pray she'll eventually accept it."
"You don't have a magic formula that helps women accept our apologies?"
Matt grinned. "I wish I did. Dani and I have been married for over three years and I still can't get it right." He stared toward the door. "Matter-of-fact, I'd better call her or I'll be apologizing again." He took his cell phone from his jeans' pocket and walked into the hall.
Steven leaned down and laid his forehead on her arm. "I love you so much. I'm so sorry for everything."
Leya opened her eyes. "Where am I?"
Relieved to see her conscious, he said, "You're in a hospital. You fainted because you haven't eaten or gotten enough sleep. In plain English, you're worn out. I'm here because I love you." He stared into her eyes, hoping she'd read his and believe him. "And I'm not leaving Wyoming without you."
When she struggled to sit up, Steven helped her by adjusting the pillow. After she was comfortable, she took a drink of water, then addressed him. "Because I'm still in love with you, I can't go back to the safe house with you."
"That doesn't make sense. If you love me, why can't we start over?"
"When you walked out on me, you broke my heart. I can't go through that pain again." She stared into his eyes. "Can you guarantee you won't do it again?"
He picked up her hand and gently kissed it. "No, I can't promise I won't do something stupid again. I'm human. But I will always love you. Please come home with me."
Matt entered the room. "Hi Leya. How do you feel?"
She smiled. "So you're here too. I feel pretty good."
Matt kissed her cheek. "Yes, I'm here too. One of the Task Force men, George Wright, is looking for an apartment that offers enough security where you'll be safe. That way you and Steven won't have to live with a group of men, and you can start your life together as a couple."
The doctor walked in and the two men left.
After the doctor left, Matt returned to Leya's room just ahead of Steven. "I need to get back to Dani but I feel confident you and Steven will work things out." He kissed her cheek, then turned toward Steven. "If you need anything you know where to find me." He exited the room.
She exhaled a deep breath.
Steven sat on the bed beside her. "Don't look so frustrated." He picked up her hand. "I'm glad the doctor wants you to spend the night in the hospital. It gives me more opportunity to grovel. Maybe I'll wear you down, and you'll accept my apology."
She gave him a partial smile. "You're not going to give up, are you?"
"Nope, the one thing I'm good at is persistence." He raised her hand and kissed her fingers. "Am I wearing you down, yet?" He noticed her wedding ring.
"No, I still remember how hurt I was when you wouldn't give me the opportunity to explain." She paused before she continued, "You didn't even look back."
"If I had to do it over again, I'd never have left your room. I would've listened."
"You didn't trust me enough to let me explain," she interrupted. "You immediately thought the worst of me."
Ouch! That hurt. "You're right. I thought you took advantage of my love."
He tried to find the words. "Once I took time to think, I realized how wrong I was and you did, no, do love me." He thought a minute. "You admitted a little while ago you have feelings for me."
Hesitating, not certain how to continue, he touched her wedding ring. "You're wearing my ring."
She turned away from him. "I know. I love you and always will."
| Author Notes | Thank you Hotshot for your artwork 'Miner's City'. I am sorry for the tardiness of my post. I've been battling a cold all week and finally went to the doctor to find out my cold was bronchitis and 'a thing going on with my tonsils'. Not sure what that's about, but I hope the antibotics do their job. I want to thank my fans for continuing to read my posts. I appreciate your time and help. |
By barbara.wilkey
Peggy barged into Leya's hospital room. "Steven, why are you here?"
"What are you doing here?" Steven stood.
"She had you arrested. What about the night we spent together?"
He shook his head and pushed his sleeves up his arms. "I never spent a night with you."
"You only married Ms. Vegas because you drew the shortest straw."
"What?" Leya sat straighter and glanced toward Steven.
"All the team members drew straws to see who was unlucky enough to have to marry you." A smile crossed Peggy's lips.
Leya pushed the call button and a harried-looking nurse bustled into the room. "Get that woman out of my room," Leya demanded, pointing an acusing finger.
"He walked out on you and spent the night with me. Doesn't that tell you who he really loves?" Peggy put her hand on her hips.
"You think Steven loves you? He rejected your advances and kicked you to the curb. Steven came after me. He's with me, not you." She reached out and touched his hand. "Sure we had a disagreement, but we're working things out." She fingered the wedding ring. "I think it's clear who he prefers."
Steven stepped aside and called Matt, who hadn't left the parking lot and was immediately in Leya's room.
Matt surveyed the situation. "I can't believe you'd risk your freedom. Showing up here wasn't one of your best ideas." He grabbed Peggy's arm, and dragged her from the room.
Steven followed. "Isn't crossing state lines grounds to revoke her bail?"
"Yes, I'll personally make sure she doesn't bother you again." While Matt handcuffed Peggy, he smiled and whispered, "Did I hear Leya say you're working things out?"
Steven glanced toward the door. "She actually said that. I doubt she meant it. Peggy just told her the men and I drew straws to see who was marrying her and I lost."
Joe entered the hall and put his hand on Peggy's shoulder. "Let me guess. I'm taking her to jail for a very long time."
Steven ran his fingers through his hair. "I don't want her anywhere near Leya."
As the three men and Peggy walked down the hall, Matt explained to Joe what he wanted done with her. Joe exited the hospital with Peggy in tow.
Matt and Steven started slowly toward Leya's room as Matt grinned. "I think Leya meant you're working things out but it won't be easy. She's going to make you suffer." He paused. "For another two or three days, maybe a week."
"Why?"
"To make her point. She doesn't want you leaving her again. She wants, no, needs security." He took a deep breath, then added, "As for drawing straws, all I can say is that happened early enough in your relationship maybe she'll understand."
Steven put his hand on the door handle but stopped before he entered the room. "Are you going home?"
"Yeah, but I'm leaving Ralph. I'm serious about looking for an apartment." He teased, "So don't come back unless you've worked things out."
"You know she's just as difficult as Dani, don't you?" Steven watched Leya through the door window.
Matt nodded. "Yep, but your life will never be boring. And I wouldn't have Dani any other way." He grinned. "Besides, make-ups are fantastic."
"Way too much information." He smiled and stared at Leya. "But I bet you're right."
"I'm only a phone call away." Matt grinned. "I'd better not have to make any more trips to Wyoming."
******
When Steven sat in a chair beside Leya's bed, he caressed her hand, thinking she was asleep.
"I'm awake." Her eyes opened.
He raised her hand and kissed it. "I'm sorry Peggy barged into your room. She'll be spending a long time in jail. Matt's making sure her bail's revoked." He wiped his brow. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you about drawing straws. You probably won't believe this, but I'd forgotten about it." He swallowed, before he added, "I didn't lose. I won because it gave me an opportunity to get to know you."
"My pride took a hit thinking I was the prize for losing, but under the circumstances I understand. Our marriage was only to protect me from having to marry Carlos."
"When the justice-of-the-peace told me to kiss the bride and I kissed you, I felt something. That afternoon when you tried running on the treadmill, I knew you were special." He stared at her hand and rubbed his thumb against it, then he continued, "I hope you believe that shortly after we married I realized I enjoyed having you around." He paused. "At the time I didn't understand it, but I do now. I was in love with you."
"I understand, because immediately after we were married I felt something, but didn't understand it either."
Glancing toward the door, Steven said, "I'm sorry I gave Peggy an opportunity to enter my apartment. It was stupid of me. Nothing happened between us, but it gave her another opportunity to hurt you."
She took a deep breath. "I know nothing happened. I overheard some comments and confronted Matt. He told me everything. Did you let her in because you knew it'd hurt me?"
"That may have been part of it, but mainly I didn't care about anything. I thought you took advantage of my love. I never once considered being unfaithful to you. I love you too much." He stared at his hands still holding hers, before he added, "She kissed me, but I didn't return any."
He held up his left hand and showed Leya his wedding band. "I've never thought about removing it."
He stood, took his billfold from his back pocket and searched until he found a folded paper. "Here's our marriage certificate." He unfolded it and handed it to her. "I carry it with me. I can't believe someone like you would marry me."
Her eyes became moist, she stared at the piece of paper. "I'm sorry I put you in a position that allowed ...."
"Please, can we get past this whole thing and start over?" he interrupted as moisture entered his eyes.
She wiped a tear that rolled down his cheek with her finger . "I'm not sure. I was already afraid of marriage and now I'm really scared."
"You were right about Peggy from the beginning. I'm sorry I didn't listen."
"You don't need to apologize. I've forgiven you for that and for drawing straws to see who was going to have to marry me."
"We're making progress. How can I convince you I won't leave again?"
"Maybe we need to work on being equal partners. Unless I believe we're equal, I'll never believe you won't leave me."
He paused before he sat on the bed beside her. He leaned over and looked into her dark brown eyes. "I know I married you under less than perfect circumstances. When we made love, I not only made you my wife but I invited you to be my lover, my best friend, and my life partner." He kissed her.
Before she could respond, a nurse brought dinner and said, "You need to eat everything on your tray."
Leya watched the nurse exit and then glanced at the food. "I can't eat anything on this tray."
"Part of the reason you're in the hospital is because you haven't eaten properly."
"I know, but look at this food. I don't have problems eating but I'm not sure this qualifies as food." She looked at him. "I didn't eat before because I was so upset. I wasn't hungry and I didn't have a lot of money."
"The food looks all right to me."
Leya lifted her fork and offered him a bite. "You try it first. If you think it's edible, I'll eat it."
Steven took a bite and shook his head. "I can't honestly say it's good." He glanced at the door. "If you promise to eat every bite, I'll get you something else to eat."
"Thank you and I promise."
"I'll be back in a few minutes." He walked toward the door, then turned around and said, "We'll finish talking when I return."
| Author Notes | I want to thank Angelheart for the perfect artwork 'Love on the Rocks'. To me it shows the love, yet turmoil that Steven and Leya are going through. I want to thank my fans for sticking with me. This is another building chapter that shows Leya and Steven still trying to work through their problems. There's approximately 33 pages left in the manuscript. I promise plenty of action is on the horizon. |
By barbara.wilkey
When Steven returned from getting Leya something to eat, he found her asleep. He leaned over and kissed her forehead, and she stirred. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to wake you."
"I was only resting. What did you bring me?" She rubbed her eyes as she looked at the white sacks in his hand and smiled. Opening one, she saw a chocolate caramel candy bar. "Thank you." She bit her lower lip, then whispered, "I didn't think you'd remember."
"I even remember the pre-med book that sat on your nightstand with the kitten bookmark inside. You must read it every day by the way you moved the bookmark." I also remember the poems you wrote.
A healthy shade of red tinted her cheeks. "I don't think there's any nutritional value in candy bars."
"True, but it makes you smile."
Her lips pouted. "Can I eat it first?"
He chuckled. "You're an adult. You don't need my permission."
She removed the wrapper and slowly ate, enjoying every bite. When she finished, she licked her lips. "Thank you."
His eyebrows rose and he rubbed the back of his neck. "You're welcome, but you need to eat your dinner."
She opened another bag and took out a Styrofoam box; grilled chicken breast, rice, and a salad. She started to open the next box.
Steven took it from her and grinned. "You've eaten one dessert. This has to wait until everything else is gone."
"A deal's a deal."
He watched her take a bite of chicken. "I haven't thanked you for saving my life."
Leya stared at her lap. "I wondered when I'd get lectured."
"I'm not chastising you, I'm thanking you."
"But I murdered a man. Not just any man, but my father."
He moved to the bed and sat beside her. "You shot your father to save my life and probably your own life. Do you really think he would've set you free?"
"He might have forced me to marry Carlos."
"Now would be a good time to tell me the entire story as to why you didn't want to marry Carlos?"
"I told you. I wanted to marry a man who loves me."
"I believe that, but I also believe there's more to it. You were willing to lose your virginity to a total stranger to stop that marriage. There has to be more."
Leya silently finished eating. "I ate my dinner. May I have the final dessert?" He handed it to her. When she opened the box and saw a piece of chocolate truffle cake, moisture entered her eyes. "Thank you."
"I didn't mean to make you cry."
"You didn't."
Steven stared at the ceiling. "Why me?" He shook his head. "What are the tears for?"
"These are 'what did I do to deserve you being so nice to me tears'."
"I don't understand you. Can I apologize now for every mistake I'm going to make while I figure you out?"
"You're really worried about this, aren't you?"
"Yes. I find you confusing. We don't come close to thinking alike."
"Is that a bad thing?"
"Not really, but sometimes I think you're going to react one way and you respond the opposite."
She fell silent. When she finished her cake, she blew out a deep breath. "While I was a senior at finishing school...." She paused and stared at the empty cake box.
Steven watched. I wonder where this is heading.
She used her finger to wipe the remaining frosting on the lid, and then she licked it. "My roommate, Jaime, was alone in our dorm room." She glanced away from him. "I'm not sure I can do this."
"I don't know what you're trying to tell me, but I wish you would continue." He held her hand.
"Carlos showed up at the door looking for me. Jaime told him I was at swimming practice and would be home in fifteen minutes. He demanded she get me. Jaime refused."
Leya wiped her tears with a Kleenex. "When I walked into the room, Carlos had been beating Jaime the entire time he'd waited. He began beating me for making him wait. Campus security showed up and arrested him, but my father paid the school a large amount of money so the incident would disappear.
Jaime had a broken arm and a broken collarbone. She spent three weeks in the hospital with internal bleeding. I was only badly bruised that time."
"There were other times?" he asked rubbing the back of this neck.
"Our fathers signed the marriage contract at our hacienda. After they signed it, I went outside trying to think of how I was going to avoid marrying him. Carlos followed me. He decided he was going to get an early start on our wedding night. He said I already belonged to him, so why wait."
She took an extra pillow and hugged it. "I refused and fought back. My mother came out and stopped him. This time I received a few broken ribs. My father said Carlos had every right to sample the merchandise." She squeezed the pillow tighter. "Mother won that time."
"I understand why you'd do anything to keep from marrying him." He caressed her arm.
She stared into his green eyes. "Earlier you said I'm your lover, best friend, and life partner. Did you mean it?"
"Yes, even if you refuse to accept my apology. I will always love you."
"Can you give me time to process this?"
He kissed her. "Take all the time you need."
She rolled on to her side away from him, and Steven sat in the chair beside her bed.
******
A few moments later, Ralph walked into the room and raised an eyebrow, and Steven grinned. "I guess Matt sent you to ensure I'm staying out of trouble."
"Yep, you guessed right." He chuckled.
Leya rolled over. "Steven, may I speak with Ralph alone?"
"I'll get a cup of coffee. Do you want anything?"
She smiled. "Some ice cream would've gone perfect with my cake."
"I'll see what I can do." He closed the door behind him.
She sat up. "May I ask some questions?"
"Sure, but I may not know the answers."
She hesitated. "How do you know if some one truly loves you?"
"That's a hard one. If you're asking if Steven loves you, I'd say the answer's yes." He sat down before he continued, "Marriage is hard. You and Steven haven't known each other very long. I immediately noticed the chemistry between you two." He studied his hands. "You've tried to ignore your feelings and couldn't. I doubt you'll be able to ignore them this time either. Steven tried to ignore his feelings and couldn't. He's come to the conclusion he might as well give in. Maybe you should come to the same conclusion."
"But?"
"But what?"
"What if he hurts me again?"
"I was there and know how hard it was on you. It was equally as hard for Steven to walk away. I doubt he's willing to go through that again. He made a mistake. Are you going to punish him to a life sentence without parole? Hasn't he paid enough?" He thought a few moments. "I believe you and Steven are meant for each other. He's the one true love of your life. Are you willing to throw that away?"
Leya rolled over. "Thank you."
*****
Ralph exited the room, saw Steven leaning against the wall drinking a cup of coffee, and walked toward him. "I think she's finished with our conversation. I'm going to the hotel. I'll be back first thing in the morning."
"Thanks. Tell Matt since he left I haven't been in any trouble."
Ralph laughed as he walked away.
Steven entered Leya's room. "If you're still interested, I found some ice cream."
She rolled over, saw the ice cream in his hand, and sat up. "Thank you."
He handed it to her and saw tear stained cheeks. "Is there anything we need to talk about?"
"No, I need to think."
She ate the ice cream in silence, before she glanced at Steven. "Would you do something for me?"
"Of course, what do you need?"
She whispered, "Would you hold me?"
"You never need to be shy about asking me to hold you." As tears rolled down her cheeks, he felt the moisture through his shirt. "Are you all right?"
"No, but there's nothing you can do. Just hold me."
He closed his eyes and felt the fear and pain in her body. "Can I stay in the room with you tonight?"
She nodded as she rolled over.
He thought she was asleep, when she asked, "Steven, do you think love ever ends?"
"True love never ends. True love learns to survive during the hard times. Love is like any other growing thing. It has to work its way through the manure to blossom."
| Author Notes | If you happen to be a first time reader, please understand that this manuscript is coming to an end, and the characters were adquately described in previous chapters. Thank you Angelheart for the beautiful artwork, Soul Storm. To me this artwork describes the storm Leya is feeling as she's working through the pain of being hurt. There are only 24 pages left. In the following posts, there will be plenty of action and turmoil. I want to thank my fans for following me to the end. I appreciate each one of you. |
By barbara.wilkey
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
The sun peeked through the window and Steven awoke, rubbing his eyes. He had a stiff neck and backache from sleeping in the straight-backed chair. He stood, stretched, and checked Leya, making certain she was asleep. I wonder if I complained about how uncomfortable that chair is, they'd do something about it. Maybe a cup of coffee will help me wake up. I only have a few hours to convince Leya to come home with me before she's discharged. He bent down and kissed her forehead. "I love you, Mrs. Albright. I'll be right back. I need some coffee." As he opened the door, he turned and made sure she was asleep.
*****
Steven stopped at the main hall and took a sip of coffee. He blew out air. "Man, that's hot." He turned the corner toward Leya's room. Something hit the back of his head, knocking him unconscious.
Steven woke to a hovering nurse. In the corner of his eye, he saw Ralph rushing to him. "What happened?" Ralph and the nurse helped Steven to his feet.
Steven rubbed the back of his head and cringed as his fingers touched the lump. "I'm not sure."
He looked at the dark brown puddle on the floor. "I went for coffee and was hit from behind." He glanced down the hall. "Leya!" Steven and Ralph ran to her empty room.
The plump nurse followed. "Major Albright, a doctor needs to examine that lump."
Steven ignored her, as he and Ralph surveyed the condition of Leya's room. The blankets were half on and half off the bed. The tray holding the water pitcher was knocked over.
Steven called hospital security, "A patient, Mrs. Leya Albright, was abducted from her room. Close off the exits. There's a possibility she hasn't been removed yet."
Ralph called Matt's cell as he said to Steven, "Let the nurse look at your head."
"I'm fine."
Within minutes, a slender security guard entered the room. "How can I help?"
"We need to secure this room until we can process it." Steven closed his eyes in pain, then opened them. "I need to view all security tapes."
The guard notified the security office, "We need the security tapes in room 103 ASAP." He turned to Steven. "They're on their way."
"Matt and the team will arrive in about an hour and a half." Ralph put his phone inside his pocket.
Steven heard Ralph, but turned toward the guard. "Is there a tape player we can use?" The pain in his head forced him to cringe and rub the lump.
Ralph sighed. "You're in pain. You need to take care of yourself. At least let a doctor examine you."
The nurse called a doctor and got ice for Steven's lump. The doctor's examination showed Steven had a severe concussion.
Ralph heard the doctor's report and watched Steven vomit. "I can take care of things until Matt and the men arrive."
Steven sat down. "Leya's my wife." He released a deep breath. "I'm well enough to search for her." He attempted to stand, but with his head still spinning he almost fell.
Ralph grabbed him. "At least stay seated."
*****
The security guard showed Steven and Ralph to a room where they could view the tapes. Steven's fist hit a table. "Leya's on that bed right in front of me. We met at the intersection. I was close enough to touch her. I did nothing to stop them."
He pointed. "Just as they pushed Leya around the corner, I was hit from behind. Did you see that?"
"I don't think the men knew who you were or they would've killed you." Ralph scratched his head. "They probably thought you were an innocent bystander who could later identify them."
The tapes from outside the hospital showed the men loading Leya into an early 1990's white Ford Explorer. Steven made some phone calls and ordered Task Force helicopters to search for the Explorer.
*****
While Steven and Ralph processed Leya's room for evidence, Matt and Joe arrived. Steven told them about the information they'd gathered from the tapes, and the four of them continued processing the room.
Matt faxed fingerprints they'd gathered to Task Force. Bob, Jim, Derek, and Geoff arrived.
Steven was surprised to see Geoff. "Are you sure you're ready to return to active duty?"
Geoff studied Steven's eyes. "I'm in better shape than you are. At least I don't have a pounding headache, upset stomach, or dizziness."
"Point taken. Thank you for volunteering." He looked at each of the four men in turn. "We know there were at least three Hispanic men, so we're probably dealing with the Vegas Cartel. They're probably avenging Hector's death. Ralph and I didn't recognize any of the men, but Matt might." He glanced toward Matt. "We've discussed setting up the control room in Ralph's hotel room."
Matt thought a few moments. "May not have enough room. Maybe the hotel has a conference room." He stopped in mid-thought. "I better study the security tape then visit with our friendly sheriff. I wonder how many secluded cabins there are in a twenty-five mile radius?" He started to leave but turned toward Steven. "We'll find her, but you need to take care of yourself. You look like hell. Let the team do the leg work. That's an order."
One of the larger hotels had a conference room that was quickly turned into a control room. While the team searched for information, Steven set up the computer Matt had brought.
Matt returned around 1800 hours with his hands full of topographical maps. "I have maps of the area and information on fifteen secluded cabins. Any of them could be used to hide Leya."
He glanced up as he heard the sound of a helicopter overhead. "Helicopters are searching the entire area for the Ford Explorer. If they don't find anything by first light, we'll divide up and search the area on foot." He turned toward Steven. "Feeling any better?"
"As good as one can feel when your wife's been kidnapped."
Eric and Michael walked into the conference room, and Michael joked, "I heard an expert sniper was needed."
Steven's eyebrows rose. "What are you doing here?"
Eric grinned. "We caught the first flight from Colombia to help, and now you don't want our help?"
Steven slapped his back. "Of course, I want your help. But I'm surprised to see you. Come on, I have a concussion and my brain's working slowly. Give me a break."
"Your brain works slowly without a concussion." Michael chuckled.
Matt joined the discussion. "Do either of you have information that might help us find Leya?"
"Yep." Eric poured himself a cup of coffee. "The Vegas Cartel's in an uproar because Hector's been missing for at least a day." His eyes widened as he stared at Matt. "You wouldn't know anything about that, would you?"
Matt rubbed his chin. "So they don't know Leya shot him? If the Vegas Cartel didn't kidnap Leya, who did?"
"Leya shot him? What happened?" Eric studied Steven.
"I was doing some fishing at the cabin when Hector showed up. He was about to shoot me when Leya walked in and shot him." Steven shoved his hands in his pockets.
Eric took a long drink of coffee. "I've discovered it was Carlos' men who drugged and beat up Geoff." Eric set his cup down. "As for the current situation; I'm speculating Carlos is responsible for Leya being kidnapped."
He added more cream before he continued, "Steven, I know you're close friends with Peggy, but it looks like she's the government agent who's helping the Martinez Cartel. She's in debt to Carlos somewhere around $150,000 in off-shore betting. I have all the details."
"We figured out a few days ago that the Martinez Cartel was involved with Geoff's attack and they're the ones we bought the 90% pure cocaine from as few weeks back. We didn't know about Peggy's betting, but it doesn't surprise me. She's a piece of work. Tell us something we don't know," Matt said, glancing toward Eric.
"Carlos's father died about a month ago, of supposedly natural causes. I'd like to see the autopsy. Anyway, Carlos is trying to assert his power. Once Hector went missing, he called a meeting of the major South American drug lords and stated since he was contracted to marry Leya he should inherit Hector's business."
Eric took a drink of coffee. "Leya has four younger brothers and two uncles who are contesting Carlos' claim. If he legally marries Leya, they can't contest it."
Steven paced the floor. "Damn! We need to find Leya. He's already beaten her twice. We're legally married, so she's in real danger."
Matt patted Steven's shoulder. "We'll find her, but you need to stay away from this situation. Carlos wants control of the family business. He won't hesitate killing you."
"Leya's my wife. It's my job to do everything I can to protect her!" He glared at Matt. "If this were Dani, you wouldn't take a back seat."
"You're right, but--be careful."
Eric glanced at Steven. "When did this marriage turn into the real thing?"
"Since the 'I do'." Ralph chuckled.
Eric grinned. "I see." He ran his fingers through his hair. "You have about a day to find Leya. The drug lord conference is supposed to last two days. An undercover agent from Ray's team will call me when Carlos leaves Colombia."
Matt paced and thought. "Just want to make sure I understand everything. Carlos had Leya kidnapped so he could force her to marry him. He needs to be married to Leya, so nobody can contest him taking over Hector's business. Carlos is in a meeting at least for another day, so we've twenty-four hours to find Leya, before she's in real danger."
Ralph sighed. "You're sort of right. We need to remember Leya's an extremely beautiful woman and is wearing only a hospital gown. Her kidnappers may want to sample the goods, simply because they're horny. Leya already made sure Carlos knows she's not a virgin, so they don't need to be careful with the merchandise."
Matt released a deep breath. "Let's quit talking about finding her and do it. We'll divide up and search the cabins tonight. Use extra caution. Michael and Bob, take the four cabins on the north side of the river."
After Matt showed them on the map where the cabins were located, they left. Eric and Geoff took four cabins on the south side of the river. Jim and Derek were assigned the four on the west. Ralph stayed in the control room to process any new information that came in. Matt and Steven took the three on the east side of the river.
| Author Notes | Thank you Creator's Touch for the lovely art work 'Spooky Night'. I'm sorry about the length, but I felt there wasn't a good place to split it. I would also like to thank my fans for hanging in there with me. There are only 14 pages left. |
By barbara.wilkey
Each group of men returned as the moon rose over the mountains without finding any information about Leya. Ralph ordered a breakfast buffet, and they ate while discussing where the cartel could have hidden Leya.
Matt watched Steven walk outside without eating. He fixed a plate then followed him. Steven stood by an old tree as moisture filled his eyes. Matt stood beside him. "You need to eat. You won't be any good to your wife if you're sick."
"If I hadn't walked out on her, she'd be at the safe house." He took the offered plate.
"Probably, but we don't know what would've happened. Carlos needs Leya. They could've attacked the safe house and kidnapped her. You can't blame yourself."
Steven ran his fingers through his short auburn hair. "The last thing she asked me ...," his voice broke, and it was a second or two before he could continue, "was if I thought love ever ended." He paused. "I told her true love never ends."
"It sounds like she was accepting your apology. I think she was ready to return with you."
"I'm never letting her out of my sight again. She has no choice but to come home with me."
Matt chuckled. "She'll love the no choice part. Are you sure about that?"
"The coffee's cold." After taking a drink of coffee, Steven spit it on the ground. "As long as she agrees to come with me, she can have a choice." He glanced at Matt. "I can't begin to describe the pain in my gut. I feel like somebody reached inside my chest and ripped my heart out."
Matt patted Steven's back. "I understand. Just keep praying she's safe and we find her before Carlos gets to her."
"Leya would die before she'd marry him."
"I know." He studied the door. "You need to come inside. You stand in Carlos' way. He can't marry Leya as long as you're married to her. The easiest way to solve that problem is to kill you."
"I don't feel like socializing."
"I'm sure the men understand. They care about both of you. This has them upset too."
Steven nodded and followed Matt into the conference room.
*****
A tense silence filled the room. The men hated not knowing where to look. The idleness was hard. Finally Michael stood. "Hey Bob, remember that barn we saw by the last cabin? Let's go search it again. I can't just stand around." They left.
Eric tapped Geoff on the back. "Let's look around town. She might be right under our noses."
"Leya's too beautiful for somebody not to notice. Let's find somewhere to look. I can't stand sitting around and waiting for something to happen," Jim said as he opened the door for Derek.
Matt and Ralph studied the maps, hoping to find a clue.
After a few hours, each pair of men returned without finding clues as to where Leya might be.
Steven sat at the table with his head in his hands praying for his wife's safety. He jumped up. "I know where they're keeping her!" He went to the maps and searched for the Task Force cabin. Once he found it, he moved his finger across the map looking for the small lake where he'd fished. "The cabin's too small to be on the map but she's here."
The men circled around him.
"Last Thursday, fish weren't biting, so I took a walk." Steven rubbed the back of his neck. "I remember seeing this small one room abandoned cabin. The grass had grown up. I had a weird feeling about it. I can't explain it but it was like it would somehow mean something to me. I'm positive that's where they're holding Leya."
Matt scanned the map. "I say we send a scouting team and see how many men and what type of weapons they have. We need to know what we're dealing with before we rescue her."
Ralph looked dubious, as did the rest of the team.
Matt addressed them, "The longer I'm at this job, the one thing I've learned is sometimes listening to your heart is the right thing to do. I believe Steven knows exactly where she is."
Michael and Bob volunteered to scout out the cabin. While they were gone, Eric received a phone call stating Carlos was en-route to the United States. The men knew time was now officially an issue.
*****
The sun shone straight over the mountains. Michael and Bob returned, reporting three Hispanic men guarded the outside of the cabin and it appeared four were on the inside.
"We didn't see her, but there's no doubt the men were guarding someone and there's an older white Ford Explorer hidden under some brush." Michael set his Barrett M107 down.
After discussing the weapons they'd seen, M4's were passed out to each man. Before they left, Matt assigned specific duties to each man. Communication headsets were handed out so direct contact could be maintained at all times within the group. He ignored Steven.
Steven glared at Matt. "I'm going."
"I don't think that's a smart thing to do. Carlos wants you dead. You'll be his first target. As soon as Leya's safe, we'll bring her here."
Steven shoved his sleeves to his elbows. "You need to understand I'm going! Leya's in this mess because of me." He paused, before he added, "You, of all people, I thought would understand."
Matt sighed. "All right, but I want to go on record saying I think you should stay back."
After he checked his SIG Sauer 9mm, he said, "Your objection is noted." He walked away but stopped checking to make sure his knife was secure in the back of his jeans, then grabbed a headset. "Let's move."
| Author Notes |
Thank you Bull Rhino for your lovely artwork, 'Lonely'. Steven is upset and goes outside to stand under a tree. I imagine that tree resembling the one in the artwork.
I am having surgery to repair two torn tendens in my left ankle this Thursday. I had hoped to finish this manuscript before the surgery. I have one more post left after this one. I won't promise to get it posted by Thursday, but I am going to do my best. The doctor is telling me I won't be allowed to put any weight on my ankle for 6 weeks. I can't imagine me staying down for 6 weeks, or my boys doing without me for 6 weeks, they might just starve. I have a laptop so I am hoping to review and post while in bed. What else am I supposed to do? I prefer my PC. Thank you for staying with me during this. I appreciate your help and support. I was going to immediately start posting my next novel, but I have written a short story that I will post in two parts, following that I will start my next novel. |
By barbara.wilkey
Leya woke up in a daze and cringed at her stiff and aching body. She remembered fighting off a man as he forced a cloth over her mouth and nose. She took a deep breath. I remember not being able to breathe. I must have passed out.
She stared at her bound ankles. The cloth placed in her mouth gagged her. Her arms ached from being tied behind her. The five men stood around the room, speaking Spanish.
They don't seem concerned that Task Force 385 is looking for me. I wonder why. Maybe during my kidnapping they killed Steven. He was asleep beside my bed. If Steven was dead, I would feel it in my heart. Steven's alive.
Maybe there's an ambush set up around the cabin. If the team tries to rescue me, they'll walk into a trap. I need to warn Steven. Silly, there's no way to warn him, I'm in a chair tied up. All I can do is pray he finds this cabin.
That night Leya was too worried, hungry, and thirsty to sleep. There was only one door to the cabin and she stared at it praying Steven would soon enter. As the sun rose, she heard a man state Carlos was on his way. Tears rolled down her cheeks.
*****
From the way the sun entered the only window, Leya knew it had to be late morning or early afternoon. A barrage of gunfire rattled. Shocked, she turned toward the window. Glass exploded as the bullets came in. Leya cringed. It's Steven's team. Soon they'll rescue me.
Two of the men pushed her chair to a corner and surrounded her with M4's pointed toward the door. Three men hurried outside and were quickly engaged in rapid gunfire.
*****
When the men walked out of the cabin, Ralph looked at Michael. "You said there were only four inside. You lied. There were five. There's still two in there."
Michael raised his Barrett M107 sniper rifle, aimed and shot one of the men. "Now there's only four. Anything else I can do for you?"
"Be careful shooting toward the cabin. Leya's inside." He pointed toward it.
"How often do I miss what I'm aiming at?"
"You're young and cocky. Mistakes can happen. Just be sure of what you're aiming at." After a sigh, Ralph continued, "How are we going to get inside that cabin?"
Michael glanced toward Matt and teased, "That's his call. I'm only a sniper and part-time undercover drug agent."
Steven crept up to the two-team members. "Have either of you seen Leya? Or Carlos?"
They shook their heads.
Steven motioned for Bob to come closer before he said, "You and Michael need to cover me. I'm going after Leya."
"No!" shouted Ralph. "You're not going in by yourself!" He counted the men outside. "There's still three left and we're not sure how many are inside."
"We do know she's inside." Steven glared at him.
Matt walked up behind Steven. "We'll go in together. Michael and Bob, you're paid to be snipers. Do your jobs."
Bob aimed his sniper rifle and a crack could be heard as he pulled the trigger. "There are now two outside."
Matt stared toward the cabin. "Michael, when we go through the door, we'll leave it open. Take whatever clear shots you have."
He nodded in acknowledgement. Matt motioned for Steven to follow. When they were halfway to the cabin, they recognized the whiz of a sniper rifle through the volley of gunfire. A few seconds later, Bob said into his communication device, "Only one left."
As Matt and Steven reached the door, Geoff said into his headset, "Carlos just arrived with what looks like an entourage of at least ten men."
Derek, Jim, Geoff, and Eric had stayed back to make sure no one escaped.
Matt yelled, "DAMN!" before he answered Geoff, "Don't let anyone get close to the cabin, especially Carlos."
*****
As Matt and Steven reached the door, they heard another sniper rifle and understood the outside was clear. They only needed to worry about who was on the inside.
Matt stood on the left side of the wooden slated door and Steven stood on the right. They stared at each other waiting for the exact time to enter. They each took a deep breath and nodded to one another. Steven kicked opened the door and entered with Matt following behind. Matt made certain they cleared the doorway.
In the back corner of the cabin, two men stood in front, but to each side of Leya with their M4's pointed toward Steven and Matt. Steven noticed immediately Leya wasn't hurt. He glanced toward Matt wondering about their next move. As of now, they were at a stand off. Four men pointed weapons at each other.
Suddenly the man standing on the right front of Leya went down. As the man on the left moved to look at his partner, he went down.
Michael boasted into the headset, "Inside's clear."
Matt released a slow deep breath. "Thank you, but if you would've been six inches lower on either shot, you would've hit Leya."
Steven ran to Leya. He removed the gag in her mouth and kissed her. Bending down, he took the knife from the back of his jeans and cut her ankles loose. "You hurt?"
"No, but Carlos is on his way."
"He's already here. The team's taking care of him."
The sounds of repetitious gunfire had gotten louder. Matt watched Steven cut her loose. When she was free, Matt stated, "We're not through, yet. It sounds like some of Carlos's men are getting closer." He scanned the room. "There's no place to hide her." He said into the headset, "Ralph, Geoff, if there's any way you can get inside the cabin, we need help in here."
Bob answered, "Matt, do you need a sniper inside shooting out?"
"Wouldn't hurt." He paused. "Do we have any idea how many men are between us and getting out of here?"
Eric answered, "A rough estimate would be four, including Carlos. He's within striking distance of the cabin. You know it's not easy shooting someone with a tree in the way."
"Hurry. We're sitting ducks."
*****
Leya trembled. Steven put an arm around her, but kept his attention on what could be coming through the door. He heard loud footsteps running toward the door and pushed her behind him, hoping to protect her as much as possible.
Carlos filled the door frame. His cold black eyes fixed on Steven protecting Leya. "You're the man who married my wife?" His English was perfect.
"Yes. We're legally married, and she's not going with you. Call off your men. Leave quietly, and no more lives will be lost."
Carlos' Heckler & Koch submachine gun pointed toward Steven. "I'll give you one chance to hand her over." The red crosshairs could be seen aimed at Steven's heart.
Steven aimed his SIG Sauer 9mm at Carlos. "I want to solve this peacefully."
"Leya, do you want to stay with this gringo, or come back to Colombia where you belong?"
She trembled, as did her voice. "I'm in love with Steven. I could never love you," she said, barely getting the words out. She released a deep breath. "Would you let Steven live if I ...."
"Matt, I got a clear shot, do you want me to take it?" Bob asked through his communication device.
"Yes," whispered Matt.
*****
"Your American husband will die." Carlos fired into the wall, just missing Steven.
Leya fell on Steven. "Steven!"
Steven held her. "I'm fine, but Carlos isn't doing too well." He glanced at the body lying on the wooden floor.
Blood pooled around the wound in his back. Matt bent down to check for a pulse. "Leya, you won't need to be afraid of him any longer."
Ralph, Bob, and Geoff stormed into the house.
Matt shook his head. "You were needed about five minutes ago."
Derek said through his headset, "One man's left."
They heard the sound of a sniper rifle. Michael spoke through his headset. "It's over."
*****
Steven faced Leya, put his arms around her, and drew her closer as he kissed her. "I love you, Leya."
His hand accidentally slipped inside the hospital gown and touched bare back.
Leya moved back, yanking the sides of the gown together.
He grinned and again pulled her against his body as he whispered into her ear. "What's wrong? I've already kissed every inch of your beautiful body."
"But we're separated."
He kissed her, stared into her tantalizing eyes, and then tightly held her. "We'll never be separated again. I can guarantee that." He moved both hands through the opening of her gown and caressed her bare back. "Let's go home."
She stared back into his eyes. "I'm ready."
THE END
| Author Notes | Thank you luvsGod for your beautiful artwork 'fall cabin' that represents the cabin Leya as held in. I would like to remind my readers that Task Force 385 is a secret government agency. Matt is the chief and answers only to congress, when asked. I am hurrying to get this posted before my surgery. I hope I didn't hurry too fast. Thank you for hanging in there with me. I appreciate all my fans. |
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