Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 62

Clint looked in surprise at Todd. “Well, I never expected that.” Todd was staring at him, waiting for an answer. “Hell yes, I hate Mitch Laurence. I’ve had investigators out looking for him since this whole thing began, but they’ve all come up empty.”

“You can call them off. He’s been found. Here, see for yourself.” Todd handed the file he had been carrying to Clint. “I don’t believe it for a minute, but I wanted a second opinion.”

Clint sat down and began to look at the contents. He glanced several times at Todd pacing, he was obviously agitated by the latest development. “I don’t know, Todd, this seems pretty straightforward to me.”

“Oh come on! Are you honestly going to sit there and tell me you believed he died of a heart attack? This is Mitch Laurence we’re talking about. A man who survived five shots to the chest, then kidnapped Natalie. My God! You know what he did to her.”

Clint closed the file and laid it down. “I’m perfectly aware of the harm he caused Natalie. I wish I could wrap my fingers around his neck and strangle him right here, where I could watch him claw at my hands as he took his last breath. There’s just one problem. He’s already dead. There’s a funeral with viewing and everything. As much as I hate to admit it, the man got off easy.” He watched Todd and sympathized with him. Natalie was still in the hospital recovering and this was all they had for revenge. It wasn’t fair. Todd had come for a reason, and Clint was curious. “You‘ve seen the file. Hell, man, you brought it to me.”

“I don’t believe it. I don’t think he’s really dead. He fled with Kipling. That madman is capable of anything including making someone appear dead. What if this is all a plot to make the police think he’s dead?”

“How would you go about proving it’s all fake? More importantly, what would you do if you find out it is faked?”

“That’s simple. I would make it a reality.” Todd stopped pacing.

“I see.” Now they were getting somewhere. “Why did you come here, Todd?”

“I don’t know. I guess I wanted someone I could pitch my idea to, who wouldn’t think I’ve gone off the deep end. I also needed someone I could trust. You hate the man as much as I do. I didn’t think you would call the police and give me away, in fact, I was hoping you would lend me Nigel to help.”

“You trust me?”

“Yeah, you’re ruthless and you love your family. Well, they’re my family too. That puts us on the same side when it comes to Mitch Laurence. I owe the man for what he did to me and more importantly what he recently did to Blair. He hurt her because of me. I can’t let that slide.” Todd sat down opposite Clint. “Take a look at that file again. To me, it stinks to high heaven. Bo and the Philadelphia police are going to go by the book on this one. They see a death certificate. They believe a death certificate. Call me paranoid, but I see Mitch pulling the wool over their eyes. A lot of things don’t make sense. A Judge Carmichael ordered the release of Mitch’s body only hours after it arrived at the morgue. Who is that guy, and why would he bother with someone like Mitch?”

Clint had reopened the file and was looking it over more thoroughly. “You’re right. The time from his death to his funeral is shorter than usual, given that Mitch was a hunted man. I would have thought the authorities would have ordered an autopsy, but they didn’t. Let me make a few quick calls to see what I can find out about this Judge Carmichael.”

“While you’re at that, I’ll see what I can find out about the funeral home.” Todd got up again. “I could use a drink.” He walked over to what used to be Vicki’s liquor bar and saw only water. “Something stronger than this.”

“Nigel!” yelled Clint.

“Yes, Mr. Buchanan.” Nigel appeared inside the door like magic.

“Get Mr. Manning a drink, a real one, and bring me some water.”

“Yes, sir.”

As Nigel served the drinks, Todd looked at Clint. “What’s he do, shadow your every move?”

“Nigel is very good at his job.” He took his water. “Thank you, Nigel. You’re lucky, Manning. You can still drink. Vicki would have my head if I had any liquor.”

With drinks in hand, they began making their calls. A short time later, the phones were shut down and they looked at each other.

“What did you find?” Asked Todd.

“Something interesting. It appears Judge Carmichael informed his secretary he had to go out of town a week ago. He was attending the wedding of his minister. He said he would be unreachable the night before.”

“Let me guess. The wedding was taking place in Llanview at The Tabernacle of Joy.”

“You got it on the first try. Carmichael was one of Mitch’s followers. What were you able to get?”

“The funeral home belongs to the same organization that runs the Kipling Neuroscience Research Facility. It just confirms my suspicions. This is all a fake-out.”

“What do you want to do about it?”

“I’m going to that funeral tomorrow and this is what I need Nigel to do.”

The next hour, Clint and Todd talked and worked out all the parts of their plan.

“You realize, what we’re doing could be seen as murder?” Clint said.

“How? The man is already dead. We’re just changing a few details surrounding his funeral.”

****

Todd walked into the hospital room to find Blair, Starr, and Hope waiting for him. It was quite a picture. “Wow, now that’s a shot I’d like Samuel to paint. You three look great. Are you ready to leave this place and come home? ” he said as he walked forward and gave Blair a simple kiss.

“Wild horses couldn’t keep me here any longer. But I want to know what happened to delay you. You were rather mysterious on the phone.”

“I’ll tell you later when we’re alone. Right now, it’s time to get my four girls home. You’re all signed out and I have all the instructions from Dr. Conklin. We’re going to pamper you until our daughter is ready to make an appearance, and I don’t want anything to bring you down.”

Blair didn’t push the matter. She sensed something was bothering Todd, but she knew he’d tell her when he was ready.

An hour later they pulled onto the driveway leading up to Dragonheart. It was the most beautiful sight at that moment and Blair couldn’t contain the sob that escaped when she saw it.

“What is it, Babe?” Todd looked at her concerned.

“There was a brief time that night, when I thought I’d never see it or you again.”

Todd tightened his arm around her.”Shh, that‘s all behind you now. I’ve got a surprise for you and I think you’re going to like it.” Williams pulled the car up and they all exited and walked inside.

Blair was almost bowled over as Sam came flying out of the family room and barreled into her. “Mom, you’re home. Boy, I’m sure glad to see you. I did a cannonball into Aunt Dorian’s pool earlier. Jack showed me how it was done. Dad had Shaun take us over there to swim since it’s been so noisy here lately.”

Blair looked at Todd quizzically and then returned her son’s hug “ I’m so glad to see you too. I think that it’s great Jack took the time to teach you that. Where is your brother?”

“Right here, Mom. You’re looking good, I’m glad you’re home too. Shaun and I were upstairs putting something together.” Jack finished descending the stairs and walked to give his mom a hug.

“Welcome home, Mrs. Manning,” said Shaun who had followed Jack down the stairs.

Blair returned Jack’s hug and smiled at Shaun. “ Hey, it’s Blair, remember?” Suddenly a black and brown furball came yipping down the hall from the kitchen. The puppy bounded up to Blair and she knelt down to pick him up. “Rascal, what have you been into?” The puppy’s face was covered in frosting and cake.

Todd groaned. “Who left the cake out where the puppy could get it.” They all hurried to the kitchen and there on the tabletop was Blair’s Welcome Home cake. The puppy had somehow managed to reach the top of a chair and had gobbled a sizeable chunk out of the corner. It had been the only portion he could get close too. Everyone laughed and Shaun took the puppy from Blair.

“I’ll clean him up. Sorry about that. I figured he was still too little to get up there yet.” said Shaun as he went in search of a cloth to clean the puppy.

Todd grinned as he looked over at Blair. “Well, at least he left some for the rest of us.”

Blair threw her arms around Todd’s neck. “What else could I possibly expect from my husband’s dog. He’s as unpredictable as his master.” She reached and put a finger into the frosting and took a taste. “Mmm, Chocolate Cappachino, it’s delicious.”

Todd couldn’t resist kissing her, tasting the frosting, and hoping for something better later on. He resisted taking the kiss farther and stepped back. “We’ll continue that in a bit.“ he whispered in her ear. “ Right now let’s get you up to bed and then we can get this party underway.”

He smiled at the kids and led Blair down the hall to the elevator. “Starr, we’ll see you guys upstairs.”

“Todd, I’m perfectly capable of walking the stairs.” said Blair.

“Shush.” As the doors closed he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her back into his embrace.

Blair melted in his arms. She thought he’d never get around to it.

Todd pushed the stop button. “I hope Starr can think of a plausible excuse. This is going to take longer than a minute or two.” His lips met hers, the pressure soft and slow. He could still taste the sweet sugar that remained on her lips. Blair’s hands had wound through his hair, then he felt the lightest touch at nape of his neck as her soft hands started finding their way down his back. “I love you, Mrs. Manning.”

“I love you too, Mr. Manning.” She kissed his earlobe, “I’ve missed you.”

“God, Blair, don’t do that, you know it drives me crazy. I want you so bad it hurts, but I know it’s way too soon.” Todd separated himself, putting some space between them. He saw the hurt in her eyes. “Babe don’t, I just don’t want to push things between us. I want to make sure you’re fully healed. I can wait.” To prove his point he kissed her again, trying to show her just how deep his feelings went.

She accepted him back into her arms and began to hug him desperately, returning his kiss. Finally, she broke the kiss and put her hands on his face. “I love you and the fact you want to give me time. Deep inside, I want you as bad as you want me. Mitch tried to come between us and I’ll never give him that satisfaction.. I am certain of one thing. I don’t believe for one moment that making love to you would ever hurt me. But you’re right, we should take it slowly. Just keep loving me and holding me like you’re doing this minute”

“That I can do.” he kissed her palm and turned the elevator back on. Blair smiled at him. and tucked her arm in his.

The kids were standing outside the elevator waiting for them.

“We thought we were going to have to call the fire department. What happened?” Asked Starr.

“Nothing, just a glitch. Remind me to call for a repairman to check it out. Come on, Blair, let’s get you settled.” The kids hung back waiting for Blair to enter the suite first.

The evening light was coming into the suite. The rays filling the room. The first thing she saw was an elegant little cradle sitting beside the bed. “Oh Todd, it’s beautiful.” She walked to the cradle and ran her hand atop the smooth wood and gave it a gentle push. It swung gently side to side. “I love it.”

Todd came up behind her. “There’s more. Turn around.”

Blair turned at Todd’s words and got her first look at the nursery Todd had built. Her breath caught as the light played against the stain glass partitions depicting fairy tale scenes. She walked to each noting the colors and Todd turned the back lights on and the partitions came to life.

“Wow, those are cool.” Said Sam.

Blair stepped into the room already picturing where she would put the crib and changer dresser. She noted that one piece of furniture had already been added to the room. It was a lovely rocker and a card was attached. She looked at Todd.

“It’s not from me. The room and the cradle are my gifts.”

He looked at his kids and they all smiled.

Blair reached for the card. It was hand-drawn and she was surprised to see it signed by Jack. It was a simple picture of a mother and child in very abstract form but beautiful in its simplicity. “Jack, this is lovely.” She opened the card and inside was a small poem from Sam.

My mom is very special, and she’s home again.

She loves me and calls me her little man.

She has the biggest heart

for little boys who make trouble or puppies that pee.

She has the greatest laugh

and she’s giving a sister to me.

I love you, Mom!

Sam

Down below the poem Starr wrote. I love you Mom and I can’t wait to meet my little sister. Hope is grateful her grandma is home too. Hugs and kisses, Starr and Hope

I love you too, Mom. Welcome home. Jack

Blair’s tears were falling and she sat down on the rocker to compose herself and handed the card to Todd. “It’s absolutely beautiful, come here you three.” She stood up and welcomed all three of her children into her arms. “I love all of you, so much.”

Todd stood back, his heart bursting with joy for Blair. Her children were her life and they had just given her something she could cherish forever.

Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 61

After a long discussion, Blair had agreed to remain in the hospital a little while longer. It was decided she would stay a least a week and then if the doctors agreed, she could do the rest of her bedrest at home. Todd was grateful and put his plan into motion.

Back at Dragonheart, major renovation began taking place in the master suite. He plunged headlong into designing and remodeling the room so that a small intimate nursery took shape opposite the main bath. The focal point of the room was still their bed but by week’s end a wall bisected one end of the room. The wall was solid across the bottom ending midway up the wall with a dark wood chair rail. The upper portion of the wall consisted of four stained glass panels, framed by the same dark wood, gracefully arching and separating each panel. Two panels were on each side of the entrance to the room. Inside the room, the walls were a beautiful wash of colors. At first glance, you thought you were looking at the evening sky at dusk. Todd stood in the doorway surveying the finished room. He felt a touch on his arm and looked over to find Starr had joined him.

“It’s beautiful Dad. Mom’s going to love it.”

“Thanks, Shorty. With everything she’s been through, I wanted to surprise her.”

“I’ve got to ask, how on earth did you find painters who were able to paint the walls that way? I’ve never seen anything quite like it.”

Todd grinned, “Hey, only the best will do for my family. I actually managed to talk a portrait painter into doing it for me.”

Starr thought about it and then turned and slapped her father’s shoulder.”Daddd! Samuel painted it, didn’t he?”

“Ow! Of course. You don’t think I’d leave this room to an amateur. We’ve planned a mural, but I wanted your mom to see the room like this, first. I’m just glad this is all finished in time. I’m supposed to be bringing your mom home later today. Are you going to be here later?”

“I’m taking Hope and meeting Cole for lunch. Then we’re joining Jessica and Bree to do a little shopping. Hope’s growing out of all her clothes, and Jessica wants to get something for Natalie. What time are you getting Mom?”

“I’m not sure. I’ll head over to the hospital after I stop in at the Sun and check on the paper.” He wanted to find out if there had been any Mitch sightings. He had kept the story of Mitch’s escape to the bare minimum when he had explained about Natalie to Blair. Luckily, he had gotten most of the story told before Starr and the boys had returned. They had only heard the part about Natalie and Liam being found. Starr’s words reminded him to check on Natalie while he was at the hospital.

****

Bo had just gotten off the phone with the state police when Fish knocked on his door.

“Commissioner, this was just delivered.”

“I’ve been expecting that. Tell John I need to talk to him.”

A few minutes later John appeared at Bo’s door. “You wanted to see me?”

“Come on in John. You should know Mitch Laurence is dead. He was found by a minister outside a church late last night. The doctor called it a heart attack.”

            “You can’t honestly believe that. After everything, the man dies of a heart attack?”

            “I don’t know what to believe. It gets more bizarre. A funeral home already picked up the body from the hospital early this morning. A funeral is set for tomorrow.”

            “Wait a minute. Surely the authorities got proof he was dead before releasing the body.”

            “They did. I asked them to send me everything they had, including any details concerning his funeral. This is it.” He showed the manila envelope to John. “I figured you’d want to see the proof as much as me.”

             Inside the envelope, was a picture of Mitch Laurence on a slab in the Hospital Morgue, along with a copy of the death certificate. There was also a detailed report from the doctor at the hospital about his arrival at the hospital, and all attempts to revive him. His time of death was noted at 12:00 midnight. A second report from the coroner agreed with the doctor’s call, of death by a heart attack. The Philadelphia police also sent the name of the funeral home and information about the upcoming funeral.

            John looked at Bo. “It all seems so anticlimactic. I never expected this to be the end of Laurence. It doesn’t seem fair. Natalie is just starting to get her memory back and the doctors are still concerned about the pregnancy. Todd and Blair have been through hell because of this man. Why does he get to go out this way?”

           “I don’t know, but I want you to go to the funeral. I have a job for you. Alison Perkins Laurence was notified of his death and she’s been given permission to go see his body and say her goodbyes. You’ll be escorting her. That way you can make sure it’s really him and that he’s truly dead. “

           “You don’t trust this information?”

           “I don’t trust Mitch. Besides, I figured you would want to see for yourself.”

            “Thanks, Bo. You’re right, this time I need to make sure. When does all this take place tomorrow?”

            “The funeral is slated for 11:00 am, Alison is being brought over from County at 8:00. .You’ll have a couple hours to get there.”

            “I’ll be here at 8:00 then. How’s Alison taking this?”

“I was told the doctor had to give her a mild sedative when the word came in last night. But this morning she raised quite a commotion about being allowed to attend her husband’s funeral. Her attorney got it cleared with the judge. I don’t like the guy. He seems to have some connections, a Judge Carmichael was the one who got Hawthorne to approve Alison’s visitation.”

“I know that lawyer. The guy’s been hovering around the hospital trying to gain access to Natalie, too. He’s obviously one of Mitch’s followers. It seems The Messenger’s babies are important to them still. I’m sure now that Mitch is dead, they’ll be real anxious nothing happens to the babies.”

“If Natalie is starting to regain her memory, does she still want to have the babies?”

             “She’s got a long way to go, her memories of Mitch are still all mixed up. But one thing is a certainty, she wants the babies. The doctor said she has only happy thoughts about the babies, so they’ll be wanted no matter what she remembers in the future.”

            “I see, and how do you feel about that?”

            “I love Natalie and she loves her babies. I know what Mitch did to her and I wish I had been the one to kill him. I can’t be, he’s dead, but I can stand beside her and be a father to those children. He’s out of the picture now. My concern right now is making sure this guy is really dead, so we can get on with our lives.”

            “Fine. Go be with Natalie the rest of the day and be here first thing in the morning.”

            John left Bo’s office and headed out.

             Bo walked out and handed the packet from the Philly police to Fish. “File this in the Laurence File and mark the case closed.”

             Oliver Fish looked at the packet and picked up the phone.

             Todd was at his desk when the phone rang. “What is it?” 

              "There’s an Officer Fish on the line sir.”

              “Put him through.” he waited, trying to figure out why the police were calling him. He had already checked with his police informant, there wasn’t any news on Mitch. “Officer Fish, we talked earlier, what happened?”

              “Mr. Manning, the commissioner just handed me a packet that was delivered a short time ago. He told me to put the items in the Laurence file and mark it case closed.”

              Todd swayed and sat down abruptly. “Why Fish? Why is the case closed?”

              “Sir, Mitch Laurence is dead. I’m looking at his death certificate. …... Mr. Manning are you there?”

               Todd took some deep breaths and answered. ”Fish, can you fax me copies of everything in that packet. It would be greatly appreciated.”

               “Sure, I hope this was the news you wanted. It should help Mrs. Manning to know the man is off the street permanently now. I’ll fax the items to your office shortly.”

               “Thank you, Fish. I won’t forget this.” Todd hung up and a few minutes later he watched the items come through his fax machine. Thirty minutes later he had studied it all, put it into his briefcase, and made a quick call. “Babe, I’m going to be a little late. I have a stop to make before I can get you out of there. Starr is out this afternoon shopping with Jessica, I’ll give her a call and she can bring Hope up and keep you company until I get there. …. Thanks for understanding, I love you.”

               ***

                Nigel answered the door at Llanfair. “Mr. Manning, good afternoon.  Are you here to see your sister? I’m afraid she’s at the hospital with Ms. Natalie.”

               “That’s okay Nigel, I actually came to talk to Clint.”

               “I see.  I’ll go and tell him you are here.”

               “Thanks, Nigel.” Todd walked into the library and over to the bar. He helped himself to water and waited.

               Clint studied the man looking out the patio doors. In the past year, he had learned a great deal about Vicki’s brother. The young man who had created so much havoc almost twenty years before had ceased to be. The current Todd Manning was a complex individual. He was a shrewd businessman, and in that world, he could be quite cut-throat. He was also a loving husband and father. Although unorthodox and often misunderstood, Todd cared deeply for the rest of his family as well. He had had a rough life and it had tempered him into a strong man but it had also broken him a little. The last year had been especially tough on Todd and everyone around him, but somehow he was still standing. Clint couldn’t help but admire him.

              “Todd, Nigel said you wanted to talk to me?”

               Todd turned from the doors, “I need to know if you hate Mitch Laurence as much as I do. Because if you do, I need your help.”

Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 60

           Todd couldn’t believe what had just happened. Blair was kissing him back. His arms went around her drawing her closer and she responded in kind. Then as they came up for air, she pulled back a little and suddenly winced. “Oh God, I forgot about your back. Are you alright?”

           She smiled, “I’m okay Todd, you’re not the only one who forgot. What happened? The last thing I remember, I was talking to you and John.”

           Todd glanced around at the kids and then decided just to tell her the truth. “Um, you checked out on us for a while, Babe, but it’s all good. You’re back now. Look, I’m going to go get the nurse, don’t you go anywhere. Do you hear?” He gave her a quick kiss and left the room before Blair could stop him. Outside the door, he slumped against the wall trying to get his breathing under control.

          Nurse Rogalla noticed him immediately and went to him. “Mr. Manning, are you okay?”

          He looked up and chuckled. “I’m better than okay. It worked. I can’t believe it actually worked.”

          “You lost me, Mr. Manning. Did something happen with your wife?”

          “Our youngest son told me to kiss her and she would awaken like Sleeping Beauty.”

          “I see, so you kissed your wife. Are you telling me she’s awake?”

          Todd nodded his head. “Hell yes! Like I said. It worked. She’s in there awake and talking to her kids.” He pushed himself away from the wall. His breathing was finally getting back to normal. “I need to go find Dr. Wolek.”

           “Let’s go back in and I’ll check on your wife. You should be with her. Was she talking?”

           “Yes, she was fine.” He led the way back into the room, marveling at the sight. Blair was just hugging Sam as he scrambled up on the bed. She smiled at him over Sam’s shoulder. For a day that had started out so terrible, seeing her awake and alert set everything right. “Nurse Rogalla is just going to check you out, Babe.” He looked at Starr. “Why don’t you guys go get a snack or something. You’ve been keeping your mom company for a while now.”

             Starr nodded and hauled Sam back off the bed. “Sure. We’ll be back shortly, Mom.”

             Todd moved back in close to Blair’s side and waited for the nurse to do her job.

             “Your blood pressure is holding steady. The baby’s heartbeat is also good. Is there anything I can get you?” Nurse Rogalla smiled at her patient.

             “I just want to go home. Could you please get Dr. Wolek to come and see me?”

             “Whoa there, Babe, you just woke up. Let’s get you fully checked out, please!”

              Blair looked at Todd. She heard the strain in his voice and knew he was wound pretty taut. What had happened? “Okay, I’ll get checked out again. I think, you’re worrying about nothing. I feel fine except for my back being sore and Dr. Conklin said the baby was alright.”

“I’ll go get Dr. Wolek. “ Nurse Rogalla left but couldn’t help glancing sympathetically at Mr. Manning. She had seen him come near to losing it the afternoon before and knew how scared he had been for his wife.

Alone with Blair, Todd sat on the bed facing his wife and took her hands. “I’m sorry, all of this happened because of me. When you stopped talking and disappeared into yourself, I felt helpless. Hell, I lost it.”

Blair blinked as tears started to come.”What did you do?"

“I attacked John.” He smiled and shrugged “You know me. Act first, think later.”

She laughed softly. That’s my man. “Well, I guess he didn’t throw you in jail.”

“No, Larry knocked me out with a sedative.” She laughed harder and he joined her. Then he sobered up. “A lot has happened since.”

Before the conversation could go further, Dr. Wolek walked into the room.

“Blair, it’s good to see you back with us,” Larry said. Todd moved once again to let Larry give Blair the once over. “Nurse Rogalla told me you want to go home. I’m going to be honest with you. I believe you would be better off staying with us a few more days.” He saw her eyes narrow and he stopped her before she could object. “Dr. Conklin and I discussed your case before everything happened. She’s concerned about your blood pressure and we want to put you on bedrest for the rest of your pregnancy. I also think you should talk to someone professional about what happened.”

Blair looked at Todd. “I don’t need to talk to anyone, I just need to be with my family. I can stay on bedrest at home.”

Todd heard the pleading tone in her voice. Taking her hand in his again, he met her eyes. “It’s okay.” He then looked at Larry. “Let us talk, and we’ll give you our answer later. By the way, how’s Natalie?”

“She’s not doing too well. She didn’t know Vicki. Mitch appears to have really played with her mind.”

“Wait a minute, they found Natalie?” asked Blair surprised.

“Yeah, I’ve got a lot to tell you.” He didn’t expand and Blair got an uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach.

***

Mitch sat back with the brandy in his hand facing Carlo and Ivan. It was hardly the circumstances he had thought he was going to be enjoying after his wedding. He felt a little uncomfortable. “I can’t say I like the way you’re looking at me, Mr. Hesser. Just what seems to be your problem?”

“Mr. Laurence, I’m afraid you’ve dropped a big problem into our laps. The way I see it, something drastic will be needed to turn away all this attention you’ve just generated,” stated Carlo.

“What do you mean, drastic?”

Carlo took a slow sip of his brandy and smiled. “I’m afraid you have to die.”

Mitch stood up alarmed. “You can’t be serious! You’re going to kill me? I thought I was an essential part to one of your projects. Now you’re just going to do away with me?”

“Please, Mr. Laurence, it’s not as bad as it sounds. Thanks to Doctor Kipling, you’ve already lived longer than you were supposed to. Surely a man of your beliefs can understand the miracle that occurred. But this latest endeavor of yours has gotten the police and the feds all riled up and my clients like to keep things, shall we say, under the radar. You, sir, have now become one of America’s most wanted and that is a lot of attention suddenly coming into this area again. I need to stop the interest before it can gum up my projects. You understand, it’s only business.”

“You’re mad, I won’t stay here and let you kill me.”

“Let me kill you? Don’t you realize you could already be dead?”Carlo looked significantly at his drink and back to Mitch’s hand. “If I want you dead, you will be.”

Mitch backed away and looked at the drink in his hand. He felt chilled. Carlo had hinted at poison. I’m a dead man.

Kipling spoke. “Carlo, I think you made your point. Mr. Laurence has been truly chastised. Mitch, my dear fellow, calm yourself. We’re not going to really kill you. We’re only going to make the authorities believe it that you’ve died. Think of yourself as Jason Vorhees.”

Mitch had relaxed a little bit on hearing Ivan’s comment to Hesser. Then he wrapped his mind around the rest of what Ivan was saying. He grimaced. “If my memory serves, Jason ended up very dead. I don’t like where this conversation is going.”

It’s really quite simple. I’ll give you something to simulate death and one of my colleagues will issue a fake death certificate. Now have a seat. and we’ll discuss this further.”

***

Vicki watched through a window as the doctors thoroughly examined Natalie. John had also remained. Bo had called and so far they had been unable to find any trace of Mitch Laurence.

“Mom?”

Vicki turned as Jessica along with Brody, Ryder and Liam approached her.

“How’s she doing?” asked Jessica.

“I don’t know. She doesn’t know me. Larry thinks the drugs she was given caused amnesia. She’s very confused.”

“So she doesn’t know any of us?’”

“That seems to be the case. She reminds me so much of a young girl I knew once. All she talks about is the Messenger. Here comes the doctor maybe he can give us some more information.”

“Mrs. Banks, your daughter is going to need all your support. The blood test results show a high concentration of thorazine and another drug used to control the will of the person ingesting it. We can wean her off these drugs but it will be dangerous given her condition.”

“What condition? What’s the matter with my sister?”

“She’s pregnant, about nine weeks into her first trimester.”

Vicki gasped, “My poor Natalie, what did that man do to her?” Jessica hugged her mother. “Brody said, Natalie believed Liam was Mitch’s son.” She looked over at the doctor, “Would it help her if she saw Liam?”

“I don’t believe that’s wise at this time. Liam is part of her current delusion. If we can clear her system of the drugs and try to control the effects that will occur when she comes off them, we might be able to save the babies. Under no circumstances will she allow us to abort them. This is going to be a trying time for all and you’ll need to be patient.”

“Can I go back in and see her?” Asked Vicki.

“You may but she’s highly confused. I would ask that just you go in Mrs. Banks. She’ll need to get used to all of you all over again and we don’t want to overwhelm her at this time. Give us a couple of days to get her off the drugs. I’ve seen something like this before. This combination of drugs works to make the subject compliant and easy to manipulate. It also causes amnesia. There’s a very good chance her memory will improve and return.”

Inside the room, Natalie sat wringing her hands. The door opened and the Doctor and the woman claiming to be her mother entered. “I don’t understand why the police brought me here. there’s nothing wrong with me. I demand that you let me go. I need to get back to the compound. Liam is waiting for me.”

“Natalie dear, I know you don’t remember me but I’m your mother. I’m asking you to stay and let the doctors help you. You’ve been given a number of drugs and they’re not good for the babies. Surely you don’t want to harm your children. If you stay, they can clear the drugs from your system and you won’t be so confused.”

“I don’t want to hurt my babies. The Messenger gave them to me. I should go back to the compound, The Messenger would want me to return home.”

“I understand, but I think we should help the babies first. If you stay here I’ll see that Liam is brought here in a couple of days. I’m sure someone at the compound is taking good care of him for now. After all, you went to the wedding. You trusted someone there to take care of him didn’t you?”

“Oh yes, Melanie also watches him from time to time. He’ll be alright with her, I guess. I don’t know how I got any drugs in my system, I eat very well at the compound. Dr. Kipling has been giving me vitamins to take for my babies. But if the doctors insist, I’ll stay to get them out.. My babies are the most important ones in my life after The Messenger.”

“Thank you, Natalie. I’d like to come to visit you while you’re here if you’ll let me.”

“You say you’re my mother, I’m sorry I don’t remember you. You seem like a nice lady. But if you want to visit it’s alright with me. You will bring Liam, right?”

“I promise.” Vicki left before she started crying, it wouldn’t do any good for Natalie to see her upset.

Don't Shoot the "Messenger", Ch. 59

              Mitch looked back. “We’ve lost him. Whoever he was, he wasn’t a cop. How did you know to come to the Tabernacle?” He turned back in his seat and glanced over at Kipling.

              “The police hit the compound a little over an hour ago. They found the missing girls and Carlo’s sub-basement. I decided my time there was at an end and came here following them. I was waiting to see if they captured you when you came out the back door. I’m curious. How did you get away?”

             “Alison used Natalie as a diversion and then stalled Manning to let me get free. Damn the man. He ruined my wedding and because of him, my wife and unborn child will be spending the night in police custody. We’ll have to get her free.”

            “Yes. That is most unfortunate, but I’m afraid, making any attempt to free her at this time would not be wise.”

           “What do you mean?”

           “I suspect that by now your picture is being sent to every law enforcement agency in the country. We’ll be lucky if we can get to my hidden lab without being pulled over. I will not go to jail again Mr. Laurence. Consider yourself lucky I picked you up. Once we’re safely at my lab, then we can discuss the options available to us.”

            MItch’s eyes narrowed. “If you believe I’m such a problem, why didn’t you just escape without me?’

           “You, Mr. Laurence, are still a valuable asset to our organization, but believe me when I say that can change in an instant. While I regret losing your wife and child at this time, you sir, are an essential part of an ongoing enterprise. Not to mention you have at your disposal a number of lucrative trust funds. You owe me your life and I intend to collect.”

           For the first time in his life, Mitch felt like an object. Kipling saved his life with an experimental serum, and to him, Mitch was just the continuing experiment. He stared straight ahead out the window, as he came to that realization.

***

Inside the church, John and Todd were on their way back to Brody and Natalie. Bo had been notified of Mitch’s escape and he was trying to coordinate his remaining force and attempting to block all exits from the city.

Natalie was confused. She was being held by a strange man, and her secret lover had disappeared. She looked up to see The Handmaiden being led out in handcuffs. Breaking free of Brody’s hold, she ran to Alison. “Why are they doing this?” She rounded on Brody. “How dare you handcuff The Handmaiden. She is The Messenger’s wife. What right do you have coming in and stopping this wedding?”

Brody moved to stop Natalie from interfering. “Natalie, stop this. She kidnapped you and held you all this time. What’s the matter with you?”

“What are you talking about? She would never do such a thing. The Messenger took me in when I had no one. He gave me his son to raise and has given me, my own babies. I’ll never be alone again because of him. Who are you and why have you done this terrible thing?”

Brody was stunned. Natalie didn’t know him and she talked like Liam was only a child to care for instead of her own son. This was worse than they had anticipated. “Look you’re just confused. We’re going to take you to the hospital and get you checked out.”

Just then Natalie spotted John and ran to him. She began smothering him with kisses. “You came back. You are real and now we can be together like in my dreams. I want to go somewhere quiet with you.”

Alison spoke up. “Yes Natalie, Heed the messenger. Officer, you heard her, she said she was with us because she wanted to be. I would hardly say she was kidnapped, and look, she’s taken right back up with the good lieutenant.”

John at first responded to Natalie’s initial kiss, but then things got weird. She attempted to undress him and it was obvious she wanted to make love to him right then and there. He glanced over to Alison and saw her smiling like a cat. “What did you do to her?” He said as he tried to contain Natalie’s hands

“Why, nothing. You see Lieutenant, Natalie loves The Messenger, and would do anything for him, including bearing his children. But it appears she also cares for you deeply. Natalie is a loving person. She made quite an impression on one of our followers at last night’s rehearsal dinner.”

John was aware of what Alison was implying and his concern for Natalie grew. They had obviously brainwashed her somehow. According to Dr. Wolek, they knew she had been drugged at one time. Was she still under the influence of some drug? John held her hands still. “Natalie, looked at me.” He waited until he had her full attention. “Who am I?”

“You’re my dream lover.” She said simply.

“Do you know my name?”

“I.... I don’t know, you never told me.”

“Do you know who Liam is?”

“Yes, he’s The Messenger’s son. I care for him because his mother is dead.”

“Natalie, he’s your son, yours and mine.” John opened his wallet and showed her the picture of the three of them.

“No, that’s not possible.” She looked at the picture and back at John and fainted in his arms.

“My my, Lieutenant, you have them swooning at your feet. I never realized what a heartthrob you were,” remarked Alison sarcastically.

John glared at Alison. “Get her out of here. Make sure none of Mitch’s followers get near her and take her to the station.” He then worked at getting Natalie to wake up.

Todd intercepted Alison and her escort on the way from the building. Although held off by the police, he stated. “Make it easy on yourself. You’re at least six months pregnant. I can help get you into a nice cushy penitentiary, all you have to do is tell me where Mitch went. He doesn’t love you. He went off and left you to face the music by yourself.”

“You’re a maniac. I don’t know where Mitch is and I would never tell you. He’ll get me free. He loves me and I have faith in him.”

“You’re a fool, he doesn’t love anyone but himself.” Todd turned away, knowing Alison was too enamored with Mitch to be any help. He walked back to John and the now revived Natalie. “We should get her to the hospital. I’ll call Vicki.”

Brody spoke up. “Don’t bother. When I dropped off Liam at Llanfair, Jessica told me she was still at the hospital, I’m sure by now Jessica has reached her.”

John nodded, “Natalie, do you trust me? I want to take you to get checked out at the hospital.”

Natalie looked about uncertain.“But what about The Handmaiden and The Messenger. I really should go with them.”

“The Handmaiden is going to be taken care of and The Messenger left. You don’t need to worry about them right now.” John led her out of the Tabernacle.

Todd watched them exit and found himself alone in the now deserted tabernacle. He walked to a column close to the front door and turned to look at the room. Another scene popped into his head. Marty sitting on the floor cradling Suede Pruitt as he took his last breath. He remembered how scared and frustrated he had been. A man had just died, because of him. Then another image flashed before his eyes. Mitch’s smiling face as he talked about Blair. Todd pounded his injured hand against the column. “Mitch Laurence, if I have to spend every cent I have, I’ll find you and end your existence once and for all.”

***

Mitch exited the car following Kipling into a rather rundown apartment building in the middle of Philadelphia. What he didn’t expect was the interior. It was like stepping into a palace. “This is your hidden lab?”

“Of course not, this is my home. The lab is down below. Come, Carlo is waiting for us.” He walked to a rather ornate elevator that occupied the center of the room and entered. “Mr. Laurence, I have no urge to be late for dinner.”

Mitch stepped into the elevator and it took them to the top floor. He was impressed to say the least. “Doctor, forgive me for asking, but why on earth were you living in the woods when you could have been living here?”

“I live for my work. You were in the woods and provided me with a means to test my babies. It was actually very relaxing to work in that environment. Surely you understand. You would be dead if I hadn’t assisted you.” The elevator stopped and they exited to be greeted by Carlo Hesser.

“Ivan, Mr. Laurence, please join me.”

***

Todd arrived at the hospital just in time to see Vicki hugging Natalie. He felt for his sister when she didn’t get the response from Natalie she had been expecting. It was going to be hard on her and the family. Natalie had no memory of them. From what he had seen and heard, she was a shadow of her former self. Mitch and Alison had obviously tampered with her mind completely. On top of all that, she was pregnant.

He left them and walked to the elevator that would take him up to his family. He hadn’t realized how much he needed them until he had arrived back at the hospital. He nodded to Nurse Rogalla. “Has there been any change?”

She shook her head no.

He walked into the room just as Sam was telling his mom of Rascal’s latest antics.

“Mom, it was so funny, Jack was chasing Rascal around his bedroom wearing one shoe, while the puppy ran with his other shoe. Rascal kept diving under the chairs and the desk, then Jack had him cornered by the closet. You’ll never guess what happened next, Mom.”

“Sam, you swore you wouldn’t tell anyone,” said Jack.

“But Jack, Mom doesn’t count. Anyway you should have seen it. He had the puppy cornered and he was reaching for his shoe when Rascal ran through his legs. Mom, Jack fell forward and did a somersault and landed on his back.” Sam started laughing and even Starr joined in. The image of Jack flat on his back and the puppy racing away was vivid in everyone’s head.

Jack looked pained. “Hey, it wouldn’t have been funny if he had done it to you.”

Todd laid a hand on Jack’s shoulder. “Don’t worry, I’m sure Rascal will find a way to get something of Sam’s too. Just bide your time.” He walked over to Blair, who lay quietly. Starr was brushing her mother’s hair.

“We‘ve been talking to her for a while. She still doesn’t respond. Dad, I don’t get it. It looks like she’s awake.” Starr said looking up at her father. “When you were in the coma down in Savannah, you looked like you were sleeping, but this is weird.”

“I know. I was told I looked like that back when you were little, Starr. It’s kind of strange that now it’s your mother going through this. We just have to stay positive that she wants to come back to us and when she’s ready she will.” He sat down opposite Starr and took his daughter’s hand. “She knows we’re here. That I can tell you for certain. I knew people were waiting for me even though I was afraid to come out and face the world. I got a little help from my alters when they came out first back then, and eventually, I returned. We just need to find the right way to help your Mom to come back.”

Sam piped in. “Dad, why don’t you try kissing her like the Prince in Sleeping Beauty. Mom always tells me you’re her Dragon Prince. The one who’s always been there when she needed you.”

“Oh brother, are you nuts. That doesn’t happen in real life.” Jack said.

“Jack, don’t do that.” chided Starr, although she doubted it would actually work, she didn’t want to upset Sam.

Todd looked at his two older children. He had to agree with them, but he wanted to let Sam down easily. “I don’t know Sam. That’s something that only happens in fairytales.”

“But, Dad, you believe in fairytales.” Sam looked at his father with wide eyes.

Todd looked back at his sleeping beauty. “Yes, Sam, I do believe in fairytales.” Putting his hands on both sides of Blair’s face, Todd looked into her vacant eyes. “You hear that, Babe? I believe in fairytales because you fulfilled my every wish. I love you, Blair. It’s time to come back to me.” He leaned forward and kissed her soft lips, putting all the love he felt for her into the kiss. He thought of all those times recently when she had pulled him from his hidden room. God, let this work. Come on, Babe, come home to me.

Then he sensed a change. For a brief moment, he thought she was responding. He raised his head looking into her eyes. “Blair?” Moving one hand down to her belly where their daughter lay resting, he felt a little kick. “Hey, even your daughter thinks it’s time you came back.” Trying again, he covered her lips. Whispering softly, he repeated,. “I love you, Blair.” Then kissed her with all his passion and hopes.

            Sam had faith his father was going to help his mother. "Dad, I know you can wake Sleeping Beauty. You’re her prince.”

Todd felt her lips move of their own accord under his. Shit. It’s working. Then, her hand touched his shoulder. That’s my girl, welcome home.