Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 25

             Ivan watched the monitors and the clock. Mitch and Alison had finally gotten quiet in the back room. He had to admire Ms. Perkins, Mitch’s body had recovered surprisingly well and the nanobots had repaired a number of problems for Mitch. In particular, he now had the stamina of a thirty-five-year-old and he used it. Ivan had been ecstatic that Ms. Perkins body was a perfect incubator for Mitch’s progeny and Ivan was delighted that she had agreed to let him monitor her progress. The baby, when it arrived, would be the first child born with the technology of nanobots, a natural part of its anatomy. The child would be superior specimen and Ivan intended to make sure the child was his to raise. Mitch owed him and when the time came he would collect.

Mitch walked out of the backroom entirely satisfied. His little fiance was tied to the bed still in the throes of passion and had been begging for more, but Mitch wanted her to understand who the boss was in this relationship. He would leave her wanting, to show her he made the decision when to marry, not her.

In the backroom, Alison writhed on the bed. Mitch had tied the rope he had found in such a way that every time she moved her body it rubbed across either her sensitive breast or her tender and swollen nub, keeping her in a perpetual state of arousal. She prayed he would come back soon to relieve her. The man was her master and she loved him fully, but after all these years she wanted him to want her and she would do anything to keep him interested in her.

Mitch walked over to Ivan, “Have they left yet?”

“There are just a few left here, I imagine they’ll be leaving soon. We shall have to move down here on a more permanent basis for the majority of the time at least for a few more days. Just until they tire of watching an empty compound.”

“Damn! Why are they trying so hard to find us?”

“Reverend, I’m surprised at you, such language.”

“Righteous anger of the Lord permits me to express myself. Those infidels will get their just rewards when I’m fully healed and can gather my flock once more.” Mitch said religiously. Then he spotted two of the remaining men walking out of the compound and exclaimed. “Who are those two men? They are familiar?”

Kipling looked at the monitor and recognized John McBain and Todd Manning leaving. “Ah yes, those two gentlemen. They, my dear Reverend, are the instigators of this raid and two men I would personally like to see fry in hell. Time will come when they will get what’s coming to them.”

“Yes, I understand, but who are they?”

“The gentleman with the dark hair is John McBain, and the other gentleman is Todd Manning.” Kipling watched Mitch for any signs that would indicate his recognition of the names or faces. He saw a look of disgust on Mitch’s face at the mention of John McBain but a look of bewilderment and could that possibly be fear at Todd Manning’s name. Interesting.

Mitch looked at the men as they left the compound he felt a moment of anger and disdain for the man known as John McBain, but the gentleman known as Todd Manning made him very uncomfortable. In his mind, another face popped up for that name and it wasn’t the man in the yard. Yet as he looked at the man now leaving, he couldn’t help feeling a shiver run through him. Something was terribly wrong, that man should not be. The devils were among them and that man was one of them. Mitch paled and turned, leaving the monitor. Blasphemer, defiler, you will burn in hell. The voice yelled in his head, Mitch hurried to his Alison knowing he could quiet the voice if he could get to her.

Ivan looked back at the screen. “You scare him, Mr. Manning. Thank you. You’ve given me something I can use to mold him to my way of thinking.”

***

McBain glanced over at Todd, he had been concerned when he had seen Todd on the porch at the compound. He knew that Todd had been hoping to finally slay his demons, but it hadn’t happened. Now he couldn’t help wondering what was going through Todd’s mind.

Todd had managed to pull himself together and was holding in his anger. Still, his thoughts were a jumble of memories. As hard as he tried, he couldn’t get Mitch’s leering face out of his head. In an effort to dispel the images going through his head, Todd turned to John. “John, do you seriously think Bo’s going to have any success in finding those three? They’ve managed to elude you guys since New Years.”

“Do I think they’ll try and get away by the usual avenues? No. You’re right, we made a mistake and they’ve been living right under our noses. But now that refuge is gone. They’ll have to find some other place to hide. By shutting down their escape routes, they’ll have to continue to hide somewhere close. Any ideas where they might attempt to hide now that the compound is shut down to them.”

“If it were just Mitch and Alison, I would have figured they would try and reach his disciples but with Ivan in the mix. I’m not sure. Shit, I’m still freaked out by the fact that Mitch is definitely alive.”

“Can’t really blame you there. I saw the guy go down with five bullets in him. I thought he was dead. It appears he has almost as many lives as you do.”

“I’m not going to stop looking for him.”

There was an edge to Todd’s voice that made John look over at him. Once again he saw a look in Todd’s eyes. “You can’t take matters into your own hands.”

“Watch me.” Todd stared directly into John’s eyes letting him see his resolve. “He was supposed to be dead, if I find him, I’m just going to make sure he fulfills that death certificate.”

John shook his head, but he knew Todd was in no mood to hear all the reasons he should let the police handle things. “Don’t let Bo hear you talk that way. He’ll put you in jail and tell you it’s for your own good, just to keep you out of the way.

At that comment, Todd had to laugh. “You’re probably right.” Todd found that just that little laugh brought him out of his foul mood. He couldn’t do anything at the moment. For now, he would bide his time and maybe start doing some investigating on his own. The police couldn’t stop him from doing that.

John heard the lighter tone coming from Todd and knew he had gotten through his darker mood. Hopefully, once he was back with Blair he’d drop the notion of looking for Mitch on his own.

“I’ll drop you off at The Sun. By the way, what did you tell Blair about this little excursion?”

“I told her I had a lead on a story and was going to meet with my informant. I didn’t want to alarm her about Mitch. As it is, I do have a story for tomorrow.” Todd didn’t say any more. Unfortunately for the LPD, the headline would not be in their favor.

Todd left John and headed into the lobby of the Manning building, striding towards him was the last person he wanted to see.

“I see, you’re still in trouble with the law. Let me guess, McBain caught you breaking and entering.” Kevin smirked. He had seen Todd leaving John’s car and his attire. It wasn’t too far a stretch to figure John had just released him from jail. What he was most curious about was what Todd had done? “So tell me, whose office did you go through this time?”

Todd was in no mood for Kevin. He stared at him for a moment and then just began to walk past him to the elevator.

Kevin saw red, Todd was going to ignore him. He reached out and grabbed his arm. “Hold it, Todd. I asked you a question?”

Todd stopped and looked down at the hand on his arm. All of the anger he had been holding in, took hold, and Todd reached over and with a vice-like grip took Kevin’s hand off his arm. He began crushing it, not saying a word.

Kevin looked at Todd in surprise. Then realized that Todd was in the process of breaking his hand. “What the...? He tried to pull his hand free. Todd’s anger had always been over the top, but this cold anger was something Kevin had never encountered. There wasn’t an ounce of pity in his eyes, nor was he letting go of Kevin’s hand. Kevin felt one of his fingers break and at the snap, his hand was released. “My God, you broke my finger. What the hell is the matter with you? Are you insane!” He held his hand carefully watching it begin to swell.

“Get out of here, Kevin. If you come into this building again I’ll have you thrown in jail. Be grateful you just have a broken finger. The next time you touch me, you won’t get off so lucky.” At that, Todd turned and entered the elevator to Executive suites. When the elevator doors closed he leaned against the wall.

“Did you get it out of your system?”

“Hell Samuel, I don’t know, but it felt good to crush something since it wasn’t Mitch’s neck.”

“Can’t say that I blame you. Kevin even rubs me wrong. I’ve only seen him a couple of times but I find it hard to even like the guy and I love Vicki.”

“Vicki’s eldest is an insufferable pig and a horny bastard. If anybody takes after my father I would say it was Kevin. Kevin is as faithless as they come. He loves to take women from their husbands, and then when he has them finally, he discards them. I'm happy that he lives in London. I don’t have to pretend to be nice to him around Vicki.” Todd ran a hand through his hair and took some deep breaths. “I guess he was good for something just now. At least, the anger has taken a backseat. I didn’t want Blair to see how upset I was.”

“Are you going to tell her what happened?"

“I’m not sure. She’ll be furious if she finds out some other way, so I guess I’ll have to tell her.”

“Just be honest and explain why you didn’t at first. Blair loves us. She’ll forgive you a small lie.”

            Todd exited the elevator and went to his office. It was time to let Blair know what really went on that day.

Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 24

             He held her like there was no tomorrow, and there was something desperate in his kiss. They came up for air and she looked into his eyes. “What’s the matter?”

            He was taken aback by her question and loosened his hold on her. “Nothing why would you ask that?”

           “Todd Manning, you’re hiding something, spill it. What’s going on?”

           “Damn it. It’s nothing, Blair. But I do have to go back out. Will you stay here and run things until I get back. I’ve got a lead on a story and I need to go now to check on it. I just came here to tell you, so you wouldn’t worry, and I need to change my clothes. I can’t meet my informant dressed like this.” he watched as she relaxed and breathed a sigh of relief.

          “Where are you going to meet this guy? Is it dangerous?” She studied his face to see if he was telling the truth. When he met her eyes, she knew it was okay.

           “It’s not dangerous, just not someplace a businessman would congregate. Look, I need to get changed. While I do that, why don’t you tell me who were you were chewing out on the phone when I came in?” He walked into his private bathroom and grabbed an outfit out of the closet and began to strip.

“It was just the press room, they were balking at the typeset you wanted to use. I straightened them out.” Blair stood in the doorway, shamelessly staring at her gorgeous man as he shed his Lord persona and became her lone wolf. She watched as his muscles rippled when he pulled on the black t-shirt and jeans. He was all alpha male and he was hers. She moved up and wrapped her arms around his taut midsection. “Are you sure you have to leave right now?”

Todd had to strengthen his resolve to get out of there, and back to meet John, but it was hard when she rubbed herself up against his back. He covered her arms with his and looked over his shoulder at her. “It’s important Babe. I promise to be back as soon as I can,” he turned and took her face into his hands. “Hold down the fort and take care of yourself and the newest Manning,” he caressed her lips with his thumbs and then claimed them in a long slow kiss.

He raised his head from hers and said “I’ve got to go. I ...you know.” and he headed for the door.

As he looked back at her, she blew him a kiss and said. “Yes, I know, me too.”

***

John had his men gathered in the squad room when Manning arrived. “For those of you who are new to this town. This is Todd Manning.  He’ll be joining us in this venture.  Take a good look at him.  I don’t want any of you to mistake him for one of Kipling’s men if there are any.  Listen this area is heavily wooded and the compound is about a mile from the road.  So we’ll be walking in.  There was a service road, but it’s impassable thanks to some traps that Carlo had in place.  We’ll be paired up.  Manning is with me. Fish and Brody, each of you select a partner.  The rest of you pair up, except for you two.” he pointed to a couple guys Todd had never seen. “ White and MacAlister, I want you two to hang back at the road, in case they try to make a break for it.    All right let’s go, we want to do this while there is plenty of daylight.” John grabbed a flack vest and held it out to Todd. “Put this on or you’re going nowhere.”

“Gee John, couldn’t I have one that matches my eyes.”

“Sorry, all of those are spoken for. You’ll have to settle for black.”

“What about a gun?”

“If you stay with me, you won’t need one.”

An hour later the task force arrived pretty close to where Todd had first investigated the compound. They spread out in twos making their way through the underbrush.  About a half-mile from the compound, Todd looked around and realized something. “John, hold up.”

“What is it, Manning?”

“We’ve got a problem.  The cameras and perimeter sensors are working,” he pointed to a camera that was scanning the area in front of them.  It was obviously active.  John quickly informed the others, that they were no longer a surprise and for everyone to be on their toes.

***

Inside the compound, Ivan heard the alarm go off.  Alison had been right.  It appeared the LPD had finally remembered Carlo’s compound.  He walked up the stairs and looked at both Alison and Mitch sitting reading in the living room.  “Would you two like to join me down in my lab?  I’m afraid we are about to have some unwelcome visitors.”

Mitch rose and followed him down to the lab.  Alison quickly set her plan into motion; setting out the plates of half-eaten food, and dirty pots into the sink, then she grabbed the suitcases she had packed the night before, she pulled out several drawers and left the closet door partially opened. Once she was satisfied it looked like they had left in a hurry, she headed downstairs with the luggage, where Kipling and Mitch awaited her. As soon as Alison was inside, Ivan closed the door.

“But Dr. Kipling, the mechanism is outside, one of us will have to close the panel. Let me out and I’ll hide you two and escape into the woods until they leave.”

“That is quite unnecessary my dear. There is a control in here as well as out there.  Including duplicate monitors of the whole compound and surrounding area.  We’ll be quite comfortable in here. I trust you took care to give the illusion that we’ve left.”

“Yes, they’ll think we left in somewhat of a hurry.”

“Excellent. I can see why Mitch counted on you so much.”

Mitch had followed Kipling because Alison had told him someone wanted him dead. Now he stood looking at the monitors.  Watching to see if he recognized any of the men who were headed for the compound.

Alison wanted to distract Mitch from the monitors. She was fearful they might stir some memories. “Mitch why don’t we go into the back room There are several beds in there, Surely we could find something to keep ourselves occupied until these intruders leave.”

Mitch didn’t immediately recognize any of the men that came into the compound first except to register the lettering on their jackets. “Who or what is the LPD and why are they here?"

Ivan took Mitch and led him away from the monitors. “The LPD is a fanatical group that hates religious leaders. Their leader is a man known as John McBain and he’s been after you for some time. You’re still recovering from your near-death experience. As your doctor, I believe you should take your lovely fiance and go rest in the back room. I’ll monitor the cameras, you needn’t worry about them, they’ll never find these rooms.” He gave Mitch a gentle nudge toward Alison, who quickly grabbed his hand and led him to the back room.

She wasted no time getting Mitch hot and bothered, and soon they were going at it like bunnies. Mitch lost all sense of time as Alison enticed him with her wiles and soon he had her writhing under his control.  Meanwhile, Ivan kept an eye on their guests.

***

Todd moved slowly with John. Adhering to the rules, he stayed close as they searched the various outbuildings of the compound. So far, there appeared to be no signs of extra guards or disciples around. The squad gathered around the house waiting for John’s word to move in. At his nod, they moved into the house only to find it as empty as the rest of the compound. They searched every room and Todd wandered into the kitchen and surveyed the uneaten leftovers sitting on the table. The coffee was still warm and Todd grabbed the cup and smashed it against the wall.

“Damn it, they were here!”

“Easy Manning, we don’t know that it was them. Someone else could have been bunking here. That’s evidence you’re throwing around.”

“Come off it, John. They had time to clear out, we tripped the perimeter alarm.  Are you telling me some vagrant rearmed the alarms?”

“No, I agree with you, but we have to look at all the possibilities. At least, we can get Natalie up here and get some fingerprints. We’ll find out for sure just who’s been living here and if it’s them.  Hold on, while I check with MacAlister.”

Todd wandered away and entered a bedroom. He found something intriguing on the dresser. He walked over and picked up the beautiful and intricate wreath, exactly like the smaller one outside his home. He brought it out to John. “You don’t have to bother Natalie. They’ve been here. This is Alison’s.  I know, because I found one like it yesterday morning where she watched my house. I’m guessing if we search their trash, we’ll find bandages around here, too.”

John took the wreath and nodded to Fish to check the outside trash. “Look for an ambulance while you and Samuels are out there.  MacAlister said no one came down the access road. So they didn’t drive out of here.  I’m calling Bo, we’ll have to start searching the whole mountain, this side first.”

Brody came up from the basement. “There’s a large room down below. Looks like a command center, all the monitors are active. They had plenty of time to leave since the alarm went off. We should have brought more men.”

“We had no actual proof they were here, and we were hoping to surprise them,” John said. "The last time I was here, the tech guys shut everything down. “

“John, you saw Kipling's lab. He’s perfectly capable of getting anything electrical back up and running.“ Todd had to get out of there. He threw a chair over and rushed outside trying to get his breath. He leaned on the rail taking in long breaths. He had wanted it over. He had wanted to face his nightmare and get on with his life and now the man was out there, once again roaming free. A hand dropped on his shoulder and he turned to find John standing beside him.

“Todd, we’ll get them. They’re on foot.”

Todd laughed, but his eyes were dead. “Who do you think you’re talking to, John. I know these guys. They have contacts. They probably got a ride as soon as they hit the road. We’ve got to start all over again.”

John looked at Todd and saw his haunted look. Mitch had done a real number on Todd eight years before. “Then we’ll start over. I notified Bo, he’s already having the bus and air terminals checked. Also, the highway patrol will be keeping an eye out for them. You need to concentrate on Blair. They’re not here and from what we saw in there, we’ll have to assume Mitch is alive and well. You were right, Fish found bandages and we know neither Kipling nor Alison was hurt. There’s nothing more we can do here. Let’s get back to Llanview.”

Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 23

            Alison had been pretty quiet, ever since she had found out about Todd Manning living on the mountain. She had spent the evening the night before trying to get Mitch to agree to a simple marriage ceremony and he had proven resistant to her, saying they had all the time in the world. Of course, then they had made love and by the time he was through with her, she would have agreed to leap off a mountain for him.

            Now in the clear light of day, Alison realized it would only be a matter of time before someone came searching the mountain. After breakfast, she headed down to Kipling”s lab. This time she knocked.

Ivan looked up at the interruption, it could only be Alison again. He debated ignoring the knock but then decided he’d let her come in. He needed to talk her into letting him care for her if she was truly pregnant, it was the only way he would be able to stay close to the child.

“Come in.”

           “Dr. Kipling, I think we need to really talk about the fact that we should move away from here. Sooner or later the police are going to remember this place and check it. Mitch is well enough now for us to go our separate ways.” Alison moved to stand next to Ivan. “You’ve done all you’ve can for Mitch, and I know you’ve been in contact with your partners. I’m sure you have all sorts of places you can go.”

          “Well yes. That’s true my dear, but actually Mitch is a long way from fully healed and I need to monitor him a little longer. In fact, I have a feeling you’re going to need me also. Did you really think I wouldn’t notice that some of my serum had been used without my permission? I believe you too, are carrying some of my little fellas and if I’m not mistaken you’re trying to get pregnant. What better way to tie Mitch to you.”

Alison paled. “You won’t tell Mitch!”

“Oh no my dear, on the contrary, I would like to offer you my services. Let’s find out if you’ve managed your little miracle. But let me also alleviate your worries about being discovered here. Come with me.” He led her back outside the door and walked to the other side of the room. He then touched a panel wall that moved to reveal some buttons. Pushing them, He and Alison turned to watch as a paneled wall moved to cover the opposite wall completely, hiding the entrance to the lab.

Alison went up to the wall and it was a match for the rest of the room. There was no way to tell there was a hidden room behind it. Even tapping on it produced the same sound like all the other walls. In fact, it merely looked like this room had been designed to be Carlo’s haven from the rest of the compound. It was even complete with security monitors which were once again operating.

“You see Alison, I knew the police might finally remember this place. The perimeter alarms have been reset and if they come close, we’ll have time to hide. They’ll never find the lab. They didn’t the first time. Now, what do you say, shall we find out if you’re pregnant?’

Alison breathed a huge sigh of relief. She had more time. She looked at Kipling and knew he had saved Mitch, and he was right, she did have his nanobots roaming around in her body. “Yes, let’s find out. I want to be able to tell Mitch if it’s true.” Of course, she’d only tell Mitch when she had him married to her. It was time to get to work finding a minister to marry them.

They went back into the lab, and a short time later Alison emerged. She began humming again and ran up the stairs. She was carrying Mitch’s child and all was better. If the police came they would hide until they left. She began making plans for that eventuality. She would have to make the police think that they had abandoned the compound in a hurry.

***

Bo listened to John, “You two really think Kipling and Alison are at Carlo’s compound?”

“That’s got to be where they went. It makes sense. Todd told me his reporter, who was inside Kipling’s organization, was around at the time of Carlo’s disappearance from Philadelphia.  According to his reports, Kipling supplied the compound. If they are there, it explains how they drop off the map so quickly.”

“Get a squad together, you have no idea if you’re going after three people or if you’re going to face Mitch’s disciples too. Manning, I can’t let you go. You‘re not law enforcement.”

“Then you better deputize me, Bo, because I’m going no matter what.” At Bo’s and John’s look of utter surprise, he said. “I’ve got a new baby on the way. I’m trying to live by the rules. Bo, you know what Mitch did to me. I’ve got to face him. If I’m with you, I think I’ll be able to control my urge to kill him.” Todd realized how close his demon was at that moment and knew he had to reel in the anger. There was no way Bo would let him go if he thought Todd was dangerous. He closed his eyes and took a couple of deep breaths.

John and Bo watched as Todd’s aggressive posture changed. They knew he was back in control at his next words.

Todd looked at Bo, this time he merely said. “Please, Bo,” and waited for Bo’s decision.

Bo looked over at John. “It’s your show.”

“Go ahead Bo, I trust him.”

“I never thought I’d ever do this. This is really out of the ordinary, and only until they’re captured.”

“You’re kidding me, you think I really want to do this. But whatever, let’s do it.”

“Very well, raise your right hand. Do you solemnly swear to uphold the laws of this state and obey the commands of your superior?”

“I do.”

“I hereby deputize you. Todd Manning, temporarily putting you under the leadership of Lieutenant John McBain. You are now sworn in and can go and assist during this raid, but you must follow John’s orders. Understand Manning?”

“Hey, Bo, do I get a badge?”

“Get out of here Manning. And behave yourself. John, I want updates.” At that, both John and Todd left the office.

John’s first order of business was to get his officers for the raid. “Todd, have you got a change of clothes because you’ll stand out a mile in that business suit? It’s going to take just under an hour to get this organized. Meet me back here in forty-five minutes. If you’re not here I’ll leave without you.”

“I’ve got other clothes at the office. I’ll be here John. You know, if you try to leave without me, I still know the way to the compound. You won’t keep me from there.”

John nodded, “Yeah I know, but I want to make sure you don’t get shot accidentally by a cop who doesn’t know you, so be here.” John watched as Todd took his leave and walked back into his office. Natalie was still sitting there.

“John, did Bo give his permission for the raid?”

“We’re headed up there in less than an hour. I’ve got to get this organized. You should probably get back to your job. I’ll let you know what we find later.”

“Wait, John. What about Uncle Todd? I saw him leave. Were you and Bo able to talk him out of going with you?”

“He insisted he was going, so Bo made him a temporary deputy.”

“You’re kidding, right? Todd, an officer of the law. That’s so wrong on so many levels. You’re telling me Todd agreed to that?”

“Not only did he agree, he actually suggested it. He told us he had a new baby on the way and he was trying to play by the rules.”

“Whoa, Todd and Blair are expecting again? It does kind of put a different perspective on things.” Natalie mused. She looked at John again and said “So this is happening today? You’re going to be careful. Right? You have a son and me to come back to, remember?”

“I’ll be careful.” He gave her a light kiss since they were at work and headed out to the squad room to get things underway.

***

Todd arrived at The Manning building and parked in his slot. Once in the elevator, he leaned against the wall taking deep breaths. “God, Samuel, I don’t know how I held it together at the police station. He’s been within miles of the house all this time.”

“I know Todd, take it easy. You still don’t have any proof he’s really alive. You could get up there and just find Alison and Kipling.”

“You don’t believe that. I know you’re trying to look at the whole, he was shot five times thing, but we both know what Kipling is capable of. No, all three of them are there and I’ll face him. I want him to see me and realize he failed all those years ago. “

“What are you going to tell Blair? She will try and stop you.”

“I know but I can make her understand and I’m going in with John so at least she’ll know I’m playing by the rules.”

“I think you’re wearing rose-colored glasses right now brother if you think that will keep her from reading you the riot act.”

Todd straightened up and prepared to get off the elevator. “Well, I guess it’s time to find out just how mad she’s going to be,” he made his way to his office and opened the door to find Blair already working. She was beautiful and was engrossed in something and didn’t know he was there. Over the years, she had become very proficient with all things pertaining to The Sun, and she was positively glowing today. He stood there just watching her, not wanting to disturb her and reveling in the fact that she was his.

Blair suddenly felt like she was being watched and turned to find her husband just standing across the room. A wave of heat ran through her at his gaze, and she knew she was blushing. “I have to go, just print it the way I told you to.” She hung up. “Hi.” He made her weak in the knees just looking at her like that. She gave a quick tug at her skirt to straighten it and rose, walking around the desk toward him. “You’re late.” She licked her lips and his eyes dropped to them and then lower before slowly coming back up to meet her gaze. She stood now directly in front of him and without a word he reached and pulled her into his embrace. Blair melted into his arms, as their lips met.

Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 22

          Kevin was upset. Nothing he said was getting through to his mother. He couldn’t believe that she had fallen for Todd’s lies again. Now, on top of everything else, Joey seemed to have also gone over to Todd’s side. What was wrong with his family? He had lost two days and still hadn’t had a chance to talk to Kelly. Sooner or later, she was going to realize she was just infatuated with Joey. He walked into the library just in time to hear Joey and Clint talking.

         “Joey I think it’s an excellent opportunity. Of course, we’ll miss you at Buchanan Enterprises if you choose to take it.”

        “What’s this brother, you thinking of leaving the fold? You really think making a job move right now is a good idea? You and Kelly just got back together. Where’s this so-called job at anyway?” Kevin inquired.

        “I have an offer to be the photography editor in chief for an international subsidiary. I’ll be based out of Paris,” replied Joey, folding the contract up.

        “Photography, huh. I thought you gave that up years ago. Who on earth offered you a job like that?”

         “The owner of the subsidiary made the offer. I think it’s time I stood on my own two feet again, and this is something I love doing. Besides if you recall, I was pretty good back when we both started working for The Banner. The guy remembered my work.”

        “Hey that’s great, but Paris makes for a long-distance romance with Kelly in London and all. You sure you want to do this?”

        “Actually, it was a combined offer. You see, Kelly will be joining me in Paris. She’s the new International Managing Editor.” Joey watched his brother, he knew Kevin had flown all the way to Llanview in an effort to try and win Kelly back for himself, but he also knew it was futile. In a way, he felt bad for Kevin. He had never seemed happy with any of his choices for a very long time and his animosity towards Todd and Todd’s apparent successes, colored his perceptions. Kevin refused to move on with his life. He still blamed Todd for allowing him to be put on trial for rape. Even though he had been exonerated by Marty, it had galled him when Todd had been released, and then they had found out he was their uncle. It seemed there would always be bad blood between the two of them.

          “What do you mean, Joey? Kelly didn’t say anything to me about a new job before she left London. The only offer I knew about was the one from Todd asking her to come back here and work.”

           “Yes, well that offer was taken off the table, but this other one appeared and Kelly and I talked it over and we’re going through with it. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to sign this and send it back to make it official. Kelly and I will be headed home to London in a few days to settle everything up there, before making the move to Paris. By the way Dad, I hear C.J. is bringing his wife over today. Kym’s a doll. I think you and Mom are going to love her. Kevin, I’ll talk to you later.” Joey left before Kevin could ask any more questions. He really wasn’t in the mood for an argument about Todd.

           Kevin watched his brother leave. He hadn’t found out the name of the company Joey and Kelly were going to work for, but it was international, it was probably a sound business move. Still, he didn’t like the idea that they were moving to Paris. “So Dad, you got a look at the contract. Is it as good as Joey made it sound?”

          As soon as Kevin had entered the conversation, Clint had settled down on the sofa with The Banner and had just kept one ear on the discussion. He was proud of the way Joey kept his cool and had ignored the slight, from his brother, about his talents. “It's a great offer. You and I know he hasn’t been happy at B.E. This is his chance to prove himself, and I’m all for it.”

           “Is this one of our competitors? I wasn’t aware of any major changes going on in the publishing world.”

          “It’s a competitor, but I can’t offer Joey or Kelly, either one, what they're being offered. The offer is genuine and I think the world is a big enough arena to let the two of them venture out of the family business. I’m actually looking forward to what the two of them will produce.”

         “Wow, it must be some offer to hear you talk. Can’t say I’m too happy about the move to Paris. I’ll have to have a chat with Kelly about Zane.”

         “Kevin, if she moves him to Paris it won’t be that hard for you to see him. Who knows, she might let him continue to stay in the boarding school and continue the current arrangement you both have. One thing you need to remember, she’s his mother. The final say will be hers.”

         Kevin frowned, if he had remarried Kelly after returning to London, he would have had more rights where Zane was concerned, but so much had happened. He had needed space and Kelly had given it to him. Now Kelly’s heart was back with Joey and it looked like he had lost out in the love department once again. “So Manning pulled his offer out from under Kelly huh. I’m not surprised, the man is sadistic. He got her hopes up and dashed them. I don’t understand why Blair stays with the guy. He doesn’t sound like he’s changed all that much to me, even though Mom keeps singing his praises.”

           Clint had been waiting for Kevin to start one of his rants about Todd. It bothered him that Kevin wouldn’t let go of his hatred. At times, he saw something in Kevin that was ruthless and feared he had more of Victor in him than Vicki realized.

          “I really don’t want to get into Todd Manning with you today. But I think your hatred of him is unhealthy, Kevin. Even Joey admits Todd is a different man than he was in college.  C.J. won’t hear a word against him because he saved C.J.’s son and daughter down in Savannah. Even Bo and Nora have found a way to let bygones be bygones, but you’ve refused to budge and open your eyes to the changes.”

“Dad, I keep telling you, he’s got all of you hoodwinked. The man was a self-serving jerk in college and he’s no different now. To him, it’s all about perceptions. He wanted mom to believe he was damaged just like her, so he invented alters and I know you keep telling me they’re real, but I still say he’s playing you. You seriously believe Peter Manning abused him?”

“I know what your mother told me. No, I haven’t read the file, but I know your mom was with him during one very intense therapy session and he almost died during it. Your mother wouldn’t lie to me about something like that. Kevin, you have blinders on. You don’t want to see the difference because then you have nothing left to hate him for and you hate him because he has everything you’re missing.”

Kevin stared at his father like he had grown horns. “You’re losing it, dad, what does he have that I’m missing? I have a good life. I’m respected in the business community. He’s just a rich man’s son who was handed everything on a platter when he found out about his inheritance. He stole good people from The Banner to get The Sun underway. He used Mom’s illness for fodder to feed the masses. Then he had the audacity to use it again to get off for kidnapping fourteen people. Nothing he has ever done has shown me he had any remorse for any of it. What could he possibly have, that I don’t?”

“Yes well, he was a monster when he was young. There’s no denying he was brash and arrogant, but he’s paid in more ways than you could imagine, just in the last year. Kevin, you need to take a step back. Your hatred is affecting you more than him, I know what that kind of thing can do to you. I almost destroyed my relationship with your sisters and my brother because I was mired in my hatred. Let the past go Kevin.” Clint put his paper down and really tried to connect with his son.

“Drop it, dad. You’ll never convince me that Todd could change in a million years. He’s scum and I’ll never understand why Blair and his kids can stand him. C.J.’s adoration of him is ridiculous. Todd saved his kids. How, by writing those articles? Give me a break. Just because he exposed a human trafficking ring doesn’t mean he got down and dirty with those guys. Todd wouldn’t dirty his hands getting in the middle of that filth.”

“You’re wrong Kevin if you had stuck around and talked to C.J. yesterday you would have heard the whole story about Savannah. According to your nephew who was there, by the way; Todd single-handedly, while blind no less, managed to elude a number of guards and kept them occupied, so he could get his daughter Lily out of their clutches.”

Kevin looked at his dad. “Now I know you’re kidding. Todd would never put himself in danger that way.”

Clint began to get angry. “Now, you’re calling your nephew a liar and I won’t have it. C.J.s young daughter was kidnapped and endured several months in those criminals’ hands. She is only thirteen years old. If Todd hadn’t found out what was really going on at that dock, she would have been delivered into slavery in a foreign country. He and C.J. chose to get her out on their own, and the next night he aided in the release of the rest of the girls, along with John McBain. If you don’t believe me or C.J., talk to John. Get your head out of your ass and admit you’re wrong about the guy.” Clint threw up his hands. “If you can’t, then go back to London. At least you won’t have to listen to people sing his praises.” At that, Clint got up and left the library, leaving Kevin sitting in stunned silence.

***

Blair, Todd, and the boys rode into town together.  Sam had all sorts of questions about when the baby was going to get there, and Blair told him he would have to be patient. After dropping the boys off at their respective schools, Todd said. “Williams, you can drop me off at the police station and take Mrs. Manning on to the Sun.”

Blair looked at him. “Remember what Larry said about stress. Don’t linger at the station. I don’t want you getting upset about Mitch right now. Just think about me and the baby. Please!” the car pulled over to let Todd out and he turned to her.

“You are more precious to me than the air I breathe.” Todd put his hand on her stomach and leaned over and gently kissed her. “I never stop thinking of you,” he opened the door and stepped out. “Williams, get her to The Sun safely.”

“Yes, Sir.”

Todd watched as the limo pulled away, and then entered the station. He arrived at John’s office and noticed Natalie and John studying something. “Please tell me that has something to do with my pictures.”

Natalie jumped, neither had heard him enter. “As a matter of fact, Uncle Todd, it does.”

“Well don’t keep me in suspense. Were you able to enhance the shots? Did we get a face that could be recognized?”

John knew Todd was getting worked up again and said. “Take it easy, we identified her but you’re not going to like it. Maybe you should sit down.”

“Damn it, John, just tell me! Who the hell has been watching my house?”

“Alison Perkins,” and he handed the photo to Todd.

Todd looked at it and sat down abruptly. “That nut job who shot Vicki. That’s the person who was talking to Sam?”

“It appears so. We figured she was long gone from the area. Now we’ll have to start looking again and the mountain is our first destination. You live up there. How many small towns are scattered up there?”

“Not many and I wouldn’t even call them towns. They’re more like small communities consisting of very few residences.” Todd tried to picture the settlements that popped up around the mountain. Then he recalled one place he hadn’t thought about since last spring. He suddenly felt chilled. “There one other place on the mountain she might be hiding, and it’s not that far from my home.”

“Speak up Todd, where?”

“Carlo’s Compound.”

John frowned and walked to his desk. He had completely forgotten about Carlo’s place on the mountain. Now all he wanted to do was throw something. He looked over at Todd. “They could all be there.”

Todd nodded and cursed. He should have thought about the compound the minute Kipling was identified as the man who received Mitch’s body. Of course, Kipling would know about the compound. He had sent supplies to it, to set Carlo up. “We need to get up there.”

“We don’t need to do anything. This is police business, Todd, stay out of it.”

“I’ll stay out of it after they’re all in custody and not before.” Todd had stood up again His anger contained but palpable.

John took one look at Todd and knew he wouldn’t be able to keep him out of it. The last time he had seen that look in Todd’s eyes, he had been holding an ax to a man’s neck.

He nodded, “Let’s go talk to Bo.”

            Natalie, who had been listening to this whole exchange finally spoke up. “John, you can’t let him go.” She grabbed John’s arm and whispered. “He’s in no shape to do this. What about what happened yesterday?”

           “Natalie, stay out of this,” Todd said angrily.

          “I can’t.“ She faced her uncle. “Need I remind you what happened the last time you took matters in your own hands.”

          “I’m not going off on my own this time, Natalie. But I won’t be kept out of this either.” Todd”s voice was cold.

Natalie saw the look in his eyes and realized that she was seeing the man who had terrorized Nora all those years ago. She had seen her uncle mad, even desperate, but this cold anger was something she never wanted to see directed at her. She dropped her eyes from his and turned back to John. “John?”

           “Natalie, he’s right. This is something he has to do. Leave it. Come on Todd.” He headed out the door towards Bo’s office, followed by Todd.