She drove down the street heading for her home. What was she thinking? What was all that back there? Just because he is the man of her dreams. Big Burly Biker dude. His red hair. She wondered how he would look with that hair loose. Oh and his eyes, she couldn’t hardly take hers away from them.

“No! This can’t be happening. I love my husband. There I said it. So evil thoughts, free my mind.” She said out loud, cruising down the street.

‘Oh but he was an big man. What I would give to lay in his arms for just one night. One night? Forever!! She thought.

“NO, no, no! Please get out of my head. I can’t have these thoughts harboring in my mind. We will be together for days. Trying to locate MY HUSBAND!! GO AWAY!” She yelled louder. She wrestled with these thoughts until a bigger problem stared her in the face. A familiar car sat parked in her driveway.

“Oh RATS!” She screamed, pulling up into her driveway next to the car. She slid out of her car slamming the door, glaring at the other car as she passed by it. She came to the front door, pausing to inhale deeply and slowly letting it out.

“Shar! How are you darling” She was greeted by her sister-in-law, holding a drink in one hand and hugging her with the other arm, as she moved into the sitting room.

“I’m doing as well expected. Considering the circumstances.” She answered, laying her purse down on an chair and going to the bar, taking a bottle of water from the small refrigerator. Her sister-in-law looked at her with an ‘here we go again’ look.

“I know all of you have given up hope. But not I. I’ll find him one way or another.” Shar’s voice had an edge of anger. Her sister-in-law looked at her.

“It’s been several weeks since the plane went down. They covered every inch of the Amazon. No one could have survived the crash or they would’ve have found something other than what was left of the plane.” She relayed to Shar, trying to appear cordial.

“But that’s just it. No BODY. Just wreckage. Maybe he went walking searching for a way out. Maybe he’s there with some of the tribes. Maybe like Tarzan or that damn Robinson Crusoe, hell I don’t know. But whatever, I need some closure. I don’t want to be always wondering...IF.” She took a sip of her water and took a seat on a chair close to her sister-in-law. Her mind went to her husband and what he could be suffering if he were still alive.

“Shar Honey. I know how much you love my brother. You have been a very dutiful wife. But now is the time to think about yourself. It’s time for you to think about moving on.” She sat back in her chair crossing her legs, staring at her glass.

Shar glares at her, feeling the anger swelling up in her. She took in a deep breath, holding it for a moment as she counted to ten, then released it slowly feeling herself going light headed.

“I’m very tired. I just came back from making arrangements to go to the Amazon. I’m going to try and find Dave. No matter what your family or you think. She said with great determination in her voice.

Her sister-in-law glanced up at her for a moment, then shot to her feet like a panther springing for its prey.

“What? What was that you just said?” She was completely out of sorts. Shar stared at her very confused with her response.

“I said, next week I will be going to the Amazon to find Dave. Or what’s left of him. Why are you so upset with this?” She continued to observe her sister-in-law’s demure.

“Nothing. It’s nothing.” Is all she could get out.

“Um look Shar. I have to go. I remembered something I should be doing. I’ll talk with you later, Sweetie. You take care of yourself.” She gathered her purse up and giving Shar a quick hug and kiss on the cheek. She swiftly made her exit out of the room. She watched Teresa leave, head tilted, wondering what the hell had gotten into her.

“Yes, I tell you. She’s going to the Amazon. Yes! Looking for him. What do you mean? Stop her! When has anyone ever been able to stop Shar from doing what she has set her mind to do?” She spoke into her cellular phone as she backed out of the driveway.

“Wait! There is something I can do. I’ll play the overly protective sister-in-law that I am. I’ll find out exactly when she plans to leave. And when she does, I’ll be right with her. Thank you. I’ll talk to you later. Goodbye.” She closed the cell phone. She smiled in satisfaction she had such an devious mind.

Shar decided to go to bed early, she had so much to do before she made her journey across the country. She drew her an bathe pouring her scented oil into the water. She turned on some soft music. Something classical.

She submerged herself into the tub, the warm soothing water covering her body. She leaned back relaxing and listening to the music. It had been a long frustrating several weeks. All this uncertainty was getting to her.

She didn’t know what she would have done if Taker hadn’t agreed to let her come along. Taker! What was that she felt with his touch? Why was he popping up in her mind in such a sensual manner? She agrees he’s hot, but she is also Married.

She has an whole week to get those thoughts of him out of her mind. Finding her husband is the foremost thing on her thoughts. She bathe herself and left the tub, going into her room. She slowly put on her gown sitting at her dresser, began to brush her hair, thinking about being in Taker’s arms. Sleeping next to him.

“Oh Please stop! I can’t be thinking these things. I love Dave. But Teresa was right. I have been a dutiful wife. But I can’t move on until I know for sure that my life as I know it is no more.” She whispered to herself. She slid into bed resting her head on her pillow, drifting off to sleep.

Chapter Four

Shar drove up to the airport, she was early. She had charted an private plane for the journey. She sat in a seat waiting for Taker and his men. She didn’t have long to wait.

Taker entered the coach with three men following behind him. They were just as huge as him. They eyed her up and down in passing going to sit in seats across the aisle from her. She just stared in amazement at the large men.

“Hello Mrs. Doyle. Let me introduce the men who will helping me. Kane my brother. Bradshaw and Farooq, both very close friends of mind.” He finished, as each mind nodded their heads in her direction and saying little things like howdy hello or nice to meet ya.

“Hello Gentlemen.” She replied nervously. She looked from one to the other.

“I guess we’re ready to go.” She said as they were all accounted for. Suddenly a commotion could be heard coming from the entrance. Shar and Taker looked at each other, both confused. Her eyes widen as Teresa, her sister-in-law along with one of her lawyers he had sent to talk with Taker entered the passenger side.

“Oh my! We thought we weren’t going to make it in time.” Teresa said taking her a seat in front of Shar. Shar looked up at Taker shrugging. He had the look of what the HELL!! Then she looked over at her lawyer whom had took a seat behind the three men. He gave her an sorry look.

“Teresa! What are you doing here?” Her voice had an tint of annoyance. Taker eyes fixed on her. He could see she was a fiery one. Teresa, looked at her stunned by her loud voice.

“Why I couldn’t let you make this trip along. John told me who you will be traveling with and when. Don’t be peeved with him, I made him tell me. And besides, look around you. You shouldn’t be along.” She nudged her head in the direction of the four men as she whispered to Shar.

Taker was leaning back in his seat, glaring at Teresa. He took an instance dislike to her. He felt she was trouble.

“Whatever Teresa. This is going to be a long and trying trip. Let’s not get started.” She spoke to her, then her eyes fell on Taker. She nearly laughed at his expression as he looked at Teresa very suspiciously.

“Sure honey. Anything for you! You know that. I’ll put on my best behavior. You’ll see. You won’t even know I’m here.” She went on and on, the men were huffing an blowing wanting to say SHUT THE HELL UP!! But they endured until a reprieve came.

‘Will everyone! Please fasten your seatbelt. We will be taking off momentarily.’ The pilot’s voice echoed from the intercom. The plane made a small jerk. Teresa let out a squeal, nervously buckling her seatbelt.

The plane slowly taxied into place, then made its way down the runway lazily, then increased its speed until it had reached the speed desire. It lift off the ground with very smoothly. Teresa cowered in her seat, legs to her chest cradling her head between her arms.

Taker looked over at Teresa, smiling as he unbuckled his seatbelt, going to get him a drink from the bar, joined by his men. Shar watched as he left his seat. She noticed how his hips swayed as he walked. She leaned her head into the seat as her thoughts went to her in his arms kissing deeply running her hands over his body.......

“Shar?” Teresa called to her. She was unloosening her seatbelt, clearly settled.

“Where did you find these men? Look at them. They’re bandits I tell you.” She whispered looking back at them, making sure they couldn’t hear her.

“Teresa, why exactly did you come along? And why didn’t you tell me you were coming?” Shar looked over to the lawyer, with darts in her eyes, for being so deceitful. He looked up at her and decided he would take his chances with the rough looking men at the bar.

“So you got John to tell you everything huh?” Her eyes followed the lawyer to the bar

“Well you know how persuasive I can be.” She proudly said looking into her compact, licking her lips.

“I convinced him not only to tell when you would be leaving, but suggested he should accompany us.” She continued, flicking a strand of hair back. Shar was shaking her head at him. He shrugged with an ‘I’m sorry’ look. Teresa glance in Shar’s direction. Then turn around to see whom she was glaring at.

“Yeah, he tried to bucked at first. But I informed him if anything should happen to either one of us, he would be lucky to find a job chasing ambulances, after the family was through with him. He quickly complied.” Finished with her information, she turned around in her seat to face Shar, only to feel the darts flying from her eyes. She wasn‘t pleased with the way she ambushed the lawyer to get the information.

Taker stood at the bar with the other men, drinking his JD and beer. His thoughts had drifted off to another place. He had her in his arms. Their lips were locked. He was tasting the sweet full lips. His mouth traveled from her lips down over her cheeks and down over her strong jaw, onward to her neck. Dare he even think about her full rounded breast.

“Be careful Bro’! She’s not your type.” Kane noticed how his brother never tore his eyes away from the lady. Taker gave his brother a long hard look, drank the remainder of his JD and beer. Then left them to go into the cockpit, to check on things.

“You never cease to amaze me. You will do anything to get your way. Even threaten MY lawyer to divulge private information.” Shar shook her head as if pitying her. Her eyes narrowed, as she picked up on Shar’s attitude.

“I would do anything to preserve the harmony of my family. Anything!” She her whole demeanor had took on a strange mood. Shar felt an alarm go off. She had never witness this side of her sister-in-law. She sat back in her chair, staring at her completely dumbfounded.

‘Anything’ lingered in her mind. What did she mean preserving the harmony? How could finding Dave upset it? Shar looked out the window going into deep thoughts. Teresa’s eyes were slits, she folded her arms in her lap, crossing one leg over the other, bobbing it back and force nervously. She watched Shar very closely.

Finally the plane hover over the small airport of the town they would be, until they moved on for to their search. After the landing of the plane and the retrieval of their belongings, they took two taxis to the hotel they would be staying.

The two brothers shared an room, as Bradshaw and Farooq. The lawyer and two women had single rooms of their own. Shar’s room was next to Taker’s and Kane’s. Whose room was next to Bradshaw and Farooq. She wasn’t looking for anything luxury, she was seeking her husband.

The lawyer and Teresa had suites, so they were on another floor from the others. Shar moved through the room exploring. She wanted to know where everything was located. It was a nice room with an balcony.

She stood in the doorway of the balcony. She looked towards the place her husband was last seen. A jungle she thought. Though her husband had made many trips here, she had never been in the jungle before. So she knew it was going to be a very grueling trip. The sun was just setting behind the mountains. It was an beautiful scene.

She breathe in the night air as the moon rose, shining a light on the earth. She watched as the first star burst through. Closing her eyes, a nursery rhyme touched her memories: “Starlight, star bright, first star I see tonight. Wish I may, wish I mite, have the wish, I wish tonight.” Mother Goose, she thought, laughing.

“Penny fer yer thoughts.” The deep southern drawl, broke her concentration.

Her head swung in his direction. There he stood, holding an cigarette. He wore an sleeveless shirt, revealing arms full of distinguish tattoos. She had never saw so many in her life. Her fascination with this man grew stronger.

“What was that you said?” She asked, still admiring his arms. Taker moved closer to the banister separating the two balconies.

“I said, ‘A penny fer yer thoughts. Another nursery rhyme.“ He repeated, taking a seat on the banister.

“Oh yes! You’re right. Penny for your thoughts, Nickel.......oh I could never remember the rest. But I remember the last part....A dime if you say that you love me..” She blushed when she realized what she had said. His green eyes caught hers in an gaze, they locked.

“Yeah! I could never remember the whole verse either. Well, it has been a long trip. And tomorrow will be even an longer day. ” He took a drag on the cigarette, then mashed it out in the ashtray full of sand. Shar continued to stare into his eyes. Taker cleared his throat, his feelings for her were getting the best of him.

“I think I’ll turn in. Goodnight, Missus Doyle!” He glanced at her one last time.

The moonlight played over her dark skinned. His heart nearly knocked against his chest. He nodding his head, turned and went into his room. Shar stood looking after him. She slid into one of the chairs around the small table on the balcony.

“What is going on here?” She whispered to herself.

“I’m here to find my husband. The man I love so very much. Why am I having these feelings? Why?” She asked herself, burying her face in her hands.

Tap! Tap! Tap! A gentle knock at her door. She pulled her hand down from her face, looking and listening, wondering if she heard right.

Tap! Tap! Tap! It sounded once again. It was someone at her door.

‘Oh hell! It can’t be anyone but Teresa‘, she thought to herself.

“Teresa! What the..........!” She stopped as she saw no one at the door. She stepped out into the hallway, peering in one direction to another. She stepped back into the room to close the door, when her eyes caught something on the floor in front of her room. She bent down and picked it up. She looked from one end of the hallway in both direction one more time. She saw no one. She closed the door, looking at the note. She opened it.

‘I have valuable information concerning the plane that went down a few weeks ago. Meet me at the Lazy Nads. And come along or you won’t get anything.’

“Why didn’t I know you were going to end it with ‘Come alone?’ She thought. How many times have the person received this anonymous tip and it ALWAYS ends in come alone? And what does the person do against all common sense? They go.

And the scenario always end: A) They get into MAJOR trouble. B) They get killed. C) Someone is dead when they get there and they are accused of the murder. And last but not least, they either have the info or they don’t. Hmmmm!! What do I do?

“Wait! My wish. It’s my wish! Maybe they do have some information. Okay! I’ll leave an note, so if anything should happen, they’ll know.” She whispered to herself scribbling some words on an piece of paper leaving it on the nightstand by her bed.

Grabbing her purse, she quickly exited her room, making it to the elevator into time to catch a ride down to the first floor. The elevator opened to a busy night life. She headed for the double doors leading out into the streets. She waved down an taxi, entering it and giving the driver instructions to where she wanted to go. The taxi sped away as she was closely being watched.

Chapter Six

The taxi pulled up to the small bar. She paid him her fare and walked up to the front of the establishment. She stood thinking maybe this wasn’t such an good idea after all. But she’s here now, so she went in through the swaying double doors. It was dimly lit. On stage half naked girls danced only wearing thongs.

The music played loudly. She walked in seeking the person whom had invited her there. Then she realized she hasn’t the faintest idea what this person looked like. She made her way to an empty seat at the bar and ordered an Pina Colada. She figured whoever it was would eventually spot her and come to her. She didn’t have long to wait.

A little bald head man approached her. He slid into the seat beside her ignoring her at first he didn’t want to scare her. He slowly took a drink from his glass of wine. Then he started a conversation with her.

“Several weeks ago, a plane went down. On that plane were two people. A man and a woman.” He said to her. She went to look at her, but he whispered to her not to.

“Keep your head straight a head. No one is to know I’m talking to you.” The man informed her.

She stared into her drank trying to look indifferent. She wanted to know if the information also was correct. The man pulled a book of matches out, lit a cigarette and left the matches on bar.

“When I leave, take the book of matches. You’ll find more information.” He instructed her. He finished his drink and left. She nonchalantly covered the matches with her hand and ease them into her purse.

She didn’t finish her drink. She paid the bartender and left. She walked out into the cool night air. She looked from one end of the street to the other, searching for signs of a taxi.

The moon stood high in the sky now, shining a light on the dark deserted street corner. She decided to stroll up the street, figuring she would be safer to leave the area. She could see some people farther down the street in a more upgraded area.

“This isn’t a good place for a Classy lady as yourself to be. Especially alone.” A deep voice came from behind her.

She jumped startled, nearly turning completely around in midair. She gasped placing her hand over her chest, attempting to still her pounding heart. She stared at him leaning against the wall of the building, with folded arms across his chest.

“Wha......what are you doing here?” She asked surprise to see him.

“I could ask you the same thing.” He said as he moved from the wall and started towards her.

“I wanted to get out. It’s a beautiful night and I have never been in such an exotic place as this before.” She lied. His green eyes caught her dark brown ones. She felt as he was staring an hole in her.

“Yeah.” He said snorting the word out.

He stood nearly two feet away from her, as he looked down from narrowed eyes. He thought to himself, she’s not telling the truth. He wasn’t quite sure on how to deal with it yet. If he is to succeed with this assignment, they need to be completely honest with each other.

“I’m hungry. How about you?” He asked coolie, walking pass her in the direction she had started to go. She just nodded her head in reply and slowly turned, following him at an safe distance. She could tell by his attitude he didn’t believe a word she said. But why was he here anyway. He never said. She wasn’t going to pursue it for now, maybe later. Maybe.

“Yes I could do with something to eat.” She finally said as she came out of her thoughts, not sure if a nod would be the appropriate response as he continued walking down the street. Yes, he will have to deal with her on an later date, he thought.

“I know a nice little cafe. You’ll love the food there.” He stopped to look at her at his side now, he gently took her arm in his hand and lead her to an green Ford Explorer.

He unlocked and opened the door on the passenger side first, assisting her up into the car. After seeing she had positioned herself snugly in the seat, he closed it. Her eyes followed his every movement, as he moved around the front of the Explorer, heading to the driver side of the car. She leaned over, unlocking the door for him. He opened it and slid in, thanking her.

He looked at her in a certain way, which made her uncomfortable, as he put the key into the ignition and started it up. He noticed how lovely she was, trying to be this independent woman, but truly in need of someone special in her life. She returned the gaze momentarily, then tore her eyes away to look out the window. The car left the side of the curb it had been parked. They were on their way.

“A nickel for a kiss.” He said, breaking the silence. Her head snapped around, as she gave him a confused look. He glance at her with an smiled etching the corner of his mouth.

“A nickel for a kiss. The part of the nursery rhyme we were trying to remember. He had turned his eyes back onto he road. She tilted her head, remembering from earlier in the evening.

“A penny for your thoughts....a nickel for a kiss....and a dime if you say that you love me.” Her voice was low and husky, as she quoted the whole verse. He thought it was very sensual. He smiled at her, pleased he had broken the ice.

“Yes that’s it. And here we are.” He said as he pulled the car over to the curb. He parked the car and exited the drivers side and moving in front of the Explorer, came to the passenger side and opened it for her.

He took her by the arm and escorted her into the romantic cafe. The waitress led them to a small table in the corner of the room. He held her chair for her as she thanked him and sat down. He took a seat in the chair across from her. She picked up the menu and began to look it over. He sat there staring at her. She felt his eyes on her, she shifted in her chair nervously.

“So when do you think we will be ready to leave in search of my husband?” Boy, did that put an damper on things. He scooted back into his chair.

“I have certain rules that I live by. It’s just the way that I am. So here is one. I don’t like to discuss business while I am eating.” He informed her. She peered over the menu into his piercing green eyes. She returned looking at the menu.

“Fine Mr. Taker. Whatever you wish. We can discuss it in the morning.” Her voice had a slight edge in it as she spoke. He leaned in over the table, resting his folded arms on it. He gave her a hard look.

“And while we’re on rules. I hold on to honesty. If you can’t give me that much, then we need to call this whole thing off. I don’t like surprises.” His words were sharp. Her eyes slowly peeped over the end of the menu, into the flamed green eyes.

She felt an twinge touch her most private part, feeling the juices seeping. Shifted in her seat trying to calm herself. She turned her eyes from his, not wanting to betray herself.

With no response from her, he leaned back into this seat and taking up his menu, seeking out what he would like to eat. Like he said before, he will deal with the honesty thing on a later date.

They finished dinner without farther conversation. Shar was too busy trying to deal with these newfound emotions warring within her body. He was simmering from her lying to him. And her continuance of it, after he warned her of his dislike for it.

Her going off on her own, didn’t sit to well with him.

He was just getting ready to leave his room for a little walk, when he heard someone knock at her door. He peeped through his slightly ajar door and watched the man leave the note and flee. He followed him down to the underground parking lot. And watched him get into his sports car and peel away. He jumped in his Explorer and followed him.

He followed him to the bar and took a seat in the far corner, watching him closely. His eyes beamed when he saw her entered the place. He felt his anger and concern for her overwhelm him. He knew then she meant a lot more to him than just another assignment.

They made it back to their rooms. They said a feeble goodnight to each other and entered their rooms. He walked over to the bar, pulling out a small shot of JD and a can of beer from the refrigerator. He gather them up and went onto the balcony lying down in a lounging chair, stretching his legs out.

In the morning he would have to speak with the locals. Maybe they have a mug shot of this guy. He can find out from him what was the information he had given to her , since she has choose to be secretive about it.

He was having a quiet time when an horrible noise shot out from the room. Kane was calling hogs. Damn, how was he going to get any sleep tonight? Hell, he thought, he would have to get drunk and pass out. Yeah that should do it.

He was almost dozing when he heard the light patter of feet coming from Shar’s balcony. And caught the movement from the corner of his eyes. He turned his head in its direction.

There she stood, leaning on the banister, gazing into the moonlight as it dance off her dark smooth skin. She wore a short sheer nightie. If he strained enough, he could just make out the outline of her body under it. If he strained that is.

She almost looked angelic. Her dark brown hair flowed over her shoulders. This was the first time he had a chance to see the length of it. She always wore it up. The reddish highlight was enhanced by the moonlight, giving it a halo effect.

His eyes remained fixed on her. She seemed deep in thought. Her eyes appeared closed. Thinking of her husband, he thought. His jealousy for the man, began to consume him.

She couldn’t sleep. She thought some fresh air would relax her enough to enable her to sleep. The information given to her, revealed her husband was with someone, a woman, when it went down. But who?

Did Teresa know this? Did the family all know he was traveling with someone? And were they trying to keep it an secret from her? Maybe this is why Teresa came with her. She knew what she would find out. Preserving the harmony. So that’s what she meant.

She rubbed her arm, feeling the lingering sensation from his touch from the early part of the night. He was very gentle with his grip for such a big man. He was constantly getting in the way of her thoughts concerning her husband. She continue to find her mind drifting off to him. Why?

He was the man of her dreams, but she was married and has always remained faithful. She left her eyes closed as she took in the atmosphere of this exotic place. Se embraced herself as she thought about being in his arms. He quietly sat up, straining to get a much better look at her. Her husband is one lucky man to fill the heart of such an woman, he thought.

She felt his lips lightly touch hers. His tongue long and thick filled her mouth, after demanding entrance pass her clenched teeth. It slid in and over the smooth interlining, sending a wonderful sensation throughout her body.

Her thoughts continued as he pulled her closer, deepening the kiss. His body was huge and muscular, she relaxed in his strong embrace. Her fires were raging now. She moaned out loud, her eyes flew open.

“Oh My!” She said catching her breath. She looked around to see if anyone was watching her. Taker was well hidden, lying on the lounging chair. The plants shield him.

“Damn you Taker! Why did you have to come into my life? You were the man of my dreams. But I’m married. Like it isn’t complicated enough. This isn’t right for me to have these feelings for you.” She covered her face with her hands, shaking her head in confusion. She didn’t know how she was going to deal with these mounting emotions. Added to the concern for her husband.

After hearing this, Taker slowly slid to the ground and crawled unseen into his room. Once inside he peered out to her from behind the concealment of the curtains. She was developing feeling for him also.

If she wasn’t the type of woman she was, he wouldn’t hesitate to go next door and take her now. But not her. She was true blue. A real lady, devoted to her husband, even in death.

He left her to deal with her battles. As he fell into his bed, he thought of what he would like do with her body. He felt himself becoming aroused and soon drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Eight

The sun brighten the room, the rays dawned across his face. He slowly stirred from his sleep, as a horrible sound became sharper in his head.

His eyes slowly parted, covering them with his arm. As he tried to shield them from the sun light. The noise grew clearer. He identified it. Kane, his brother! In the shower bellowing like an fog horn.

“That’s all I needed the first thing in the morning.” Taker grumbled. His mind free of confusion. He was now fully aware of his surrounding. It slowly wondered back to the night before. To Shar on the balcony. And the feelings she admitted to having for him. How was he going to face her and not reveal he knew?

“How in the hell am I going to pull that off?” He asked himself, swinging his feet over and off the bed, unto the floor.

“Do what Bro?” Kane asked standing in the doorway of the bathroom, towel wrapped around his waist, his body gleaming from little droplets of water. His hair dripping wet. Taker’s head snapped in his direction startled. He hadn’t known he was standing there.

“Man, go put some clothes on! Please! What a sight to see before breakfast.” Taker teasing his brother and trying to divert the question. Kane laughed and went back into the bathroom to finish dressing.

Taker reached over to the nightstand next to his bed, grabbed his pack of cigarette and left to take a smoke on the balcony while he sort this out. He hoped he didn’t meet Shar out there. He just wasn’t ready to face her so early in the morning.

He figured he would shower, dress before she got up and visit the locals. Maybe spend all day avoiding her. But no matter, he would have to face her eventually. ‘Well’ he thought, ‘He’ll cross that bridge when he got to it.’

He moved out of the room into the crisp morning air. No sign of Shar. He took a seat in a chair, lifted his foot up on the table and took a drag of his cigarette, going into deep thought.

Shar laid awake in her bed. She wondered what Taker had planned for the day. She scooted up into the bed resting her back on the headboard. She picked up the phone to give him a call, when she was interrupted by a knock at the door. She slid from the bed and grabbing her robe, went to see who was calling on her so early in the morning.

“Yes?” She hollered through the door.

“It’s me, Teresa.” She answered from the other side. Shar rested her forehead on the door momentarily, after hearing who it was on the other side of the door. She wondered what had she done to deserve this so early in the morning.

She slowly opened the door letting her in, turned and walked away. Teresa looked at her, as she came into the room closing the door behind her.

“Shar, what is going on? Why are you still in bed? This is such a beautiful romantic place. Not to mention the stores to shop!” She beamed, walking pass Shar and opening up the curtains, letting the sunlight illuminate the room. Shar listen as Teresa went on and on about the shops. She watched as she opened the sliding door leading to the balcony and went out onto it, taking in the morning air, spreading her arms out to her side like wings.

Taker was still seated in his chair, relaxing and in deep thought. He was taking a drag on his cigarette, when he heard the door from Shar’s room open. He partly hoped it was Shar, but was greatly disappointed when he saw Teresa float out onto the balcony.

“Teresa! I didn’t come here for a vacation! I came only to find my husband, Dave. Your brother!” She reminded her. Teresa paused for a moment looking out over the banister. Then she turned to look at Shar.

“I know all of you have come to the conclusion he’s gone! And that’s okay, because that’s your choice.” Shar said to her with a tinge of pain in her voice.

Teresa leaned back against the banister, resting her elbows. She tilted her head slightly to the side, as if trying to absorb Shar’s mood. She went over to her, wrapped her arm about her shoulder and tried to comfort her.

“Shar sweetie. You have been such a wonderful wife to my brother. You were more than I felt he deserved. But listen to me. It’s better to close it now. Let it go! Move on with your life. Let sleeping dogs lie.” Teresa said the last with emphasis. Shar backed away staring into the dark eyes of Teresa. She seemed so different from what she knew of her.

What is it she doesn’t want her to know? Could it be she knew about the person he was with and doesn’t want her to find out about it? But she knows that. She was going to mention this to Teresa, but something within her told her to drop it.

“Okay! Look! Why don’t we do some shopping? It will make us both feel better.” Shar suggested, trying to divert the conversation and lighten up the mood. Teresa bit.

“Now that’s the first smart thing I heard come out of your mouth since this whole ordeal. I’ll go get changed.” She smiled at Shar coming to stand directly in front of her gazing into her eyes.

“Shar you have been more of a sister, than he has been a brother. I want to see you happy! No matter what the cost.” She said with an gleam in her eyes. She then wrapped her arms around Shar, hugging her tightly. Shar felt something strange in the way she held her.

Over on his balcony, Taker watched intensely. Like he said, there’s something not right about that woman. Shar stood dazed for a while, after Teresa had left.

She was confused with Teresa and her changed of personality. She felt there was something she was hiding and decided at lunch she would try to get her to reveal something. She left the balcony, going inside her room to get ready for some answers from her sister-in-law.

Taker stood from his chair, blowing some smoke from his mouth. His eyes fixed on Shar’s room. He took a drag of his cigarette, eyes narrowed as he replayed the conversation between the two women. And he remembered the expression on Teresa’s face during it all. He put the cigarette out in the ashtray, as he ponder what will be the next course of action

He deducted Teresa was very fond of Shar, maybe too fond. Something was nagging at him. His gut told him Teresa knew more than she was letting on.

‘Yeah,’ he thought, ‘Something big.’

And Shar was determined to find her husband, dead or alive. He had to find out what was the information given to her by the little bald man on the night before. He also needed to find out more about this family and the man in the center of it all.

“What’s up fer the day, Big Bro?” Kane boomed, coming onto the balcony, causing Taker to jump, jarring him out of his thoughts.

“What has ya so jumpy?” Kane stood staring confused at his brother. Taker turned, facing his brother and leaned back on the banister.

“Last night just as I was going out fer a walk. I spotted someone leaving a note at Mrs. Doyle’s door. I closed the door slightly and watched as they ran ta the stairway. I took the elevator, seeing her come out of her room just as the doors closed. I wasn’t sure if I would catch him, but yes I did.” Taker paused. Kane watched his brother intensely.

“He came down the stairs and into the lobby, headed out the door. I followed him. I heard him tell the taxi where he wanted ta go. I went ta the parking lot ta git the Explorer I had rented and went ta the bar he told the taxi.” He pulled out another cigarette and lit it, taking a long drag before continuing. Then he stared long at his brother as he told him the rest.

“I sat in a corner and waited. I watched him move from the bar as she came through the doors. I watched her go over ta the bar. A couple of moments later, he came over ta the bar and sat beside her. He try ta hide the fact they were together. He’s an amateur. If I could spot they were passing information, I wonder if anyone else saw them?” He finished relaying the information to his brother.

“I wondered how did they know she was here and what she was looking fer?” Kane pondered. Taker looked over to his brother realizing someone had informed someone why they were there. But who? He hadn’t spoke with the authorities yet.

“We’ve been followed from the moment we landed. That’s how they knew where she was. But my question is, how did they know why she was here?” Taker moved with purpose from the balcony. Kane followed him.

A knock came from the door. It was Bradshaw and Farooq. They had good timing. Taker sat on the bed, watching Kane go to the door and let them in. They gave their salutations as they entered the room and came to where Taker was sitting.

“Hey guys.” Taker greeted them. Farooq took a seat on the other bed, responding to him.

“From the look on yer face, I would say things have already begun.” Farooq stated. Taker knew he was like a bloodhound. He could pick up trouble from a 100 miles away.

“As always, ya see it coming before it git there.” Taker replied to him.

“So what happened?” Bradshaw asked bringing up a chair looking from Kane to Taker.

“The lil Lady is sneaking about late at night. She got a message to meet someone at a bar. I followed. We need ta find this guy. I need ta know what was it he told her. She’s playing with me and I’ll allow it fer a while until I feel the time is right ta confront her.” Taker looked at the two. Bradshaw leaned back in his chair lighting a cigar.

“That ain’t good. But it ain’t stopping nuthin.” Bradshaw said as he took a drag on the cigar, then blew the smoke out .

“Yeah but she needs ta be careful.” Taker said this as he rose from his bed and walked out unto the balcony concerned for her safety. He leaned over the banister looking out over the small city.

“She needs someone ta follow her every move.” Kane suggested. He walked up beside his brother, noting the expression on is face. Kane knew, though Taker would deny it, he care very much for this woman.

“Yeah! She does.” Taker answered, moving away from the banister.

“Well seeing as I’m the master of tailing. I’ll follow her.’ Farooq offering his services from the doorway.

Taker looked at Farooq for a moment. All stared at him. He had this look only one of them had seen before. Kane.

“I want this assignment ta be as successful as all the others. I don’t want anything ta happen ta her. Is that understood?” Taker asked firmly, his eyes darted to each man. They all nodded in agreement. They were the best. That’s why he always picked them for all his assignments.

“I heard her sister-in-law and her planning on going on a shopping trip.” Taker turn to Farooq. He nodded and left to wait her departure.

“Everything alright, now?” Bradshaw asked, sensing there was more to this assignment than just being another assignment. Taker glanced at him then back to Kane.

“Yeah! As soon as we finish things.” He never took his gaze from Kane’s eyes. Kane didn’t blink. He knew it wasn’t going away. The feeling Taker had for her.

“So what is it ya want me ta do?” Bradshaw interrupting the bonding between the two brothers.

“I need as much info on this family. Everything ya can dig up.“ Taker turn to Bradshaw and walked pass him into the room.

“It’s done no sooner than asked. I’ll git in contact with some of my buddies in the states. And we will have a complete history on this clan.” Bradshaw said as he left the room.

Kane watched his brother closely. Quietly he contemplated if he should discuss what he was going through, concerning the thoughts he was having of the client. Taker caught him staring and shook his head. Kane backed off and went to get him a drink. Taker lit a cigarette, trying to figure out what was going on. There was something he was missing. His gut told him so.

“Brazil is the largest country in South America in both area and population. It occupies almost half the continent and has more people than all the other South American nations combined. Brazil ranks fifth in both area and population among the countries of the world.

Brazil has a varied landscape. The world's largest tropical rain forest sprawls across much of the north. The mighty Amazon and other enormous rivers wind through this vast green area of towering trees and steamy jungles.

The Amazon Region extends across most of northern Brazil. It occupies over half the country and consists chiefly of lowlands covered by jungle and tropical rain forest called selva. The region has two mountain areas, the Guiana Highlands in the far north and the Brazilian Highlands in the south. Pico da Neblina, Brazil's highest mountain, rises 9,888 feet (3,014 meters) near the Brazilian-Venezuelan border.

Manaus, the largest city in the central Amazon, has an average annual temperature of 81 °F (27 °C). Rain falls throughout the year in the Amazon Region and is especially heavy from December to May. The western part of the region is always hot and humid.

The Amazon Region is little developed and thinly populated because of a lack of resources. Only approximately 7 percent of Brazil's people live there. The region's name comes from the Amazon River, which has its source in Peru. The muddy-brown Amazon flows through Brazil's rain forests.

It empties into the Atlantic Ocean. The Amazon is the world's second longest river. Only the Nile is longer. Oceangoing ships can travel the Amazon's entire length within Brazil.

Shar and Teresa spent most of the day, walking through the city, darting in and out of the various shops, buying everything in site. Well, at least Teresa. Shar kept an close watch and keen ear on Teresa. She felt at the right moment, she would unintentionally reveal some information she could use in her search for her husband’s whereabouts.

“Oh Shar! We have been shopping for nearly half a day. Isn’t this fun?? I am famished. I know a nice little cafe. You will love the food here.” Teresa said as she started down the street.

Shar cocked her head to the side. When did she ever come here to know anything about a nice place to eat? She followed. She would ask her when the were settled and well into the meal.

They came to the cafe, with the traditional sidewalk seating arrangements. On the inside music was playing softly, as people ate and murmured amongst themselves. The women chose to eat on the outside to smell the fresh air with the combination of the music circulating from within. It gave a romantic atmosphere.

“Isn’t this divine, Shar? Couldn’t you just stay here for ever? It would make for such a lovely place for two people to grow much closer together. Don’t you think?” Teresa stared under eyed towards Shar. Shar looked back at her. Her heart felt a twinge touched it. It was something she caught in her sister-in-laws eyes. Those were her husband’s eyes, the same eyes that captured her heart when she first met her husband.

Chapter Eleven

Shar felt an uneasy feeling wash over her. She hadn’t ever seen Teresa look at her in this manner. She slightly shifted in her seat. She was very uncomfortable. Those eyes reminder her of how her husband, Dave looked at many times. She didn’t like what she was reading in them.

Teresa must have sensed Shar’s uneasiness. She turned her gaze from her and slowly began sipping her drink. She sat the glass down, looking out into the crowd. Then she closed her eyes, as if privately seeing something she desired. Shar continued to stare at her, not sure what was going on with her. She hoped it wasn’t as she initially felt. Then lazily, her eyes turned back to Shar. She smiled at her.

“Isn’t it strange how life turns out, Shar?” She said tilting her head to side, running her finger around the rim of the glass. Shar’s eyes slightly closed as she fixed them sharply into the eyes of her husband’s sister.

“What do you mean, Teresa?” She felt this may be a very good time to get out of her the information she needed.

“Oh! Just things.” She replied, lifting the glass to her lips once again, taking a sip. Shar didn’t much like the tone, but she had to play along.

“Like what?” She asked, imitating Teresa with the raised glass and sip.

“Well, not trying to sound harsh. But as far as I can remember. Dave has always gotten what he wanted. And never appreciated a damn thing.” Teresa said the last with such venom, as her soft eyes turned hardcore. Shar felt an anger forming in the pit of her stomach.

“What did you just say?” No sure she really heard her just spew those words out of her mouth.

“Oh, you didn’t quite hear me or you refuse to except the fact your Dave wasn’t this perfect loving husband you thought. But never mind, Shar. I’m just the envious little sister. The one who has always given my parents al the trouble. Dave ...........is their .....Angel. And I’m the devil.” She said this with a small chuckle. But Shar could also see the pain in her eyes. She turned from Shar. She didn’t want her to see inside her soul. For there, she would find the truth. And she was not ready to reveal anything, yet.

“Forgive me Shar. I’m just rambling on. All this is taking its toll on me. I hope we find out what really happened. And then we all can go back living out pathetic little lives.” She looked at Shar one last time before beckoning for the waiter. Shar sat quietly. Was this how she really felt? Or was it just the alcohol talking? They say alcohol is considered liquid courage. Something to think about.

Shar threw the things she had bought on her bed. She rubbed the back of her neck as she moved to the balcony. Seeing Taker out on his would be just what she needed right about now. But she was disappointed to see he was not there.

How strange the day had been. Teresa has been acting very strange since she said she was coming down here to find her Dave. And now today. The way she looked at her. But no. It couldn’t be. No. She thought. This isn’t at all as it seems. She had a little too much to drink. But wait!

“I’ve seen Teresa drink any man under the table. So it couldn’t be the drink. Has she always felt this way about Dave. And another thing. When did she ever come down here?” Shar sighed. She took a quick glance over the city and took her a seat in one of the chairs. She had a lot to sort out and hoped Taker was fairing better than her.

“So you’re telling me there were three persons who came down?” Taker asked the local.

“Yes. From what we know. Two ladies and a gentlemen.” The investigator repeated to Taker. Taker looked at Kane, as he stared back.

“You thinking what I’m thinking?” Kane asked his brother. Taker nodded his head and beckon to his brother. Both left.

Shar felt a cool breeze touch her skin, as she woke from her nap. It was dawning. The orange sun was slowly descending behind the mountains. She rose from the chair and scampered into there room, closing the sliding door behind her.

“Oh my. I must have been sleeping for two hours.” She said to herself as she picked up the phone to call Taker. She wondered if he was there and what he had found out today.

Taker was just opening the door to his room when he heard the phone ring. He rushed over to pick up the receiver followed by Kane and Farooq. He spoke into the phone and stiffen when the voice from the other end flowed into his ear.

“Hello Taker!” Shar asked. Taker closed his eyes, taking a deep breath.

“Hi Shar. What can I don fer ya?” Taker asked, sounding a little more gruff then usual. Shar took the receiver from her ears and looked at it for a moment, wondering what was wrong with him.

“Nothing. I was just checking in to see if you had any information.” She explained.

“Well maybe I do and maybe I don’t. I’ll have to check with my men ta see what they have gather. And I will get back ta ya. Because I won’t be keeping anything from ya.” His voice sounded accusingly. She knew what he was saying.

“Alright Taker. I’ll wait for you to put your information together. Talk to you later.” She said sadly. His whole demure had change and she knew why.

“Yeah, later.” He said hanging the phone up. Shar listen to the dial tone piercing her ear. Her heart slumped slightly.

“If you love your husband so much. Then why are you feeling like you’ve been kicked in the stomach by a mule?” She whispered to herself. She returned the receiver to the cradle and sat down on the bed.

Suddenly she jumped form the ringing of the phone. Maybe it was Taker calling back to amend for the attitude he displayed towards her. She snatched up the phone.

“Hello?” She tried to contain her composure. But was shaken by the familiar voice coming through.

“Hi missy. I have more information that will solve this puzzle for you. But as I told you before, don’t bring anyone. I saw the giant you left with. He spotted us talking. So. If you want what I have, slip them and meet me at the little restaurant the little lady and you were this afternoon.” He said like a sly worm.

“You’ve been following me?” She said loudly into the phone. A chuckle is all she got back in answer as the dial tone once again met her ear.

She didn’t know if she should do this, but she had to get some answers. He did give her something before. And she couldn’t take the chance of telling Taker and having him come along. This person clearly knows a lot. She grabbed her purse and slipped out of the room.

Taker put out the cigarette on the balcony wall. Without a word, moved through the room pass the two men and out the door.

Chapter Thirteen

Shar came to the little restaurant Teresa and her had been earlier. She looked around on the outside but didn’t spot the little bald man she had spoke witht he night before. She then went inside. She didn’t see him there either. So she went on the outside and sat down at a table. It didn’t take long.

“Here Missy! I was told to give this to you.” One of the waiters said as he handed her a note. She looked at him and took the letter, opening it.

“Thank you.” She said as she read it. She was told to go to the address written down.

She asked the waiter how to get there and he gave her the directions. She left the crowded place and headed down into a more seedy place than the one he had told her to come before. She wasn’t quite sure of this, but her curiosity had gotten the best of her.

Shar came to the address. It was an old shack on a deserted street. He would ask her to meet him here, she thought. She was reluctant at first, but the need for closure was greater than her fear. She knocked on the shambled door. It slowly, creaked open from her knock touch. Her heart was going pitter-patter. Now this is the time you turn and run, she thought.

Shar eased the door open more. She stepped in with one foot, looked around into the empty room, seeing nothing, felt it was safe enough to go in. She investigated more. It appeared to be one room. She wondered if he was somewhere lurking to see if she came alone or not.

She heard a noise emanating from behind her. She turned to see what it was. A door was sluggishly opening. She felt it was him making his appearance seeing she had done as he asked. Come alone. She walked towards the door and saw him standing there. She breathed a sigh of relief.

“Oh my goodness. You scared me. Why did you pick this God forsaken place to meet?” She rambled on. He never said a word as he continued to stare at her.

“Oh my, I am going on and on. It’s just that this place gives me the creeps. And I shouldn’t be here without anyone knowing where I am. And after all, I don’t know if............” She abruptly stopped talking as she saw him move.

He shook, then fell forward with such a force, causing the dust to fly up surrounding him. Shar could see a spike was standing straight up from between his shoulder blades. Shar covered her mouth and let out a shrill that could be hear through out the quiet area. Once regaining her senses she turned and ran from the place with the swiftness of an gazelle.

As she made it out into the street, she continued to run and look back, not seeing where she was going. Until she hit something hard, that sent her sailing backwards. There she laid spewed on her back looking up into the face of Taker.

“Well he’s dead alright.” Taker said as eh examined the body. Shar stood on the outside, having had enough for the night.

“Someone murdered him.” She more stated then asked. Taker rose up from his squatting position and still looking at the man came out to where Shar stood grasping herself.

“It seems that away.” He replied as he walked over to the Explorer.

“What are you doing?” She asked when she saw him taking out his phone and requesting the locals.

“We got to call the authorities. And when we get back to the hotel, ya got a lot of explaining.” Taker said with a very deep growl. Shar looked at him like a child caught doing something and awaiting their punishment.

“Damnmit! I knew I shouldn’t have done this. Now he may pull out of the search.” She said as the tears began to form in her eyes. This has not been so good. They never saw the figure slithering in the shadows.

“Please Taker. Let me explain.” She begged him. Taker was tired and angry. She had not listen to him at all. She had pulled to stunts that might have cause her life. They made it through the lobby and up the elevator. The were at her door.

“Open the damn door.” His voice more deeper than before. His eyes cut through her from behind his dark glasses.

She fumbled to get the keys out and into the keyhole. With no success, she was too shaken up. He took them from her and unlock the door. He grabbed her arm as he took the other hand and opened the door. Pushing her in before him and slamming the door behind him. She stumbled into the room, steadying herself. She turned to face him. He moved the glasses from his face. His green eyes captivated her. She was caught in his spell. But was soon broken.

“Damnmit, woman. What the hell where you thinking? Twice you have gone against my rules. Do you remember them? You told me I was in complete charge of this assignment. Didn’t you?” He yelled. Shar jumped with a start. She knew he could be aggressive. But sense there was something strange about his outburst. It wasn’t about her overriding his authority. It was much, much more.

Taker stood staring into Shar‘s eyes. He saw the confusion and fear enveloping them. He was angry and relieved she was safe. Yes, safe and with him. In her room. Alone.

“Taker, I........” She never got a chance to finish. With one strive, he had caught her up in his arms. His breath was warm on her cheeks as he stared deeper into her eyes. She felt herself succumb to his embrace. New feelings never felt before stirred in her. Her heart increased it’s rate, as her breathing became shallow.

“Don’t say one word. Do you know what it would have done to me if something had happened to you. You can’t denied your feelings for me anymore I can keep on hiding mine.” Taker whispered in her ears. His deep rumble vibrating next to her ear.

“Taker no.” She said softly. Taker was not convinced by the feeble protest. He was tired of this game.

“Yes Shar. Always yes.” He said as he picked her up into his arms and carried her to the bed. She struggled weakly as he carried her. Once at the bed he he paused looking at her as she calmed, getting lost in the emeralds locked on her dark eyes.

He gently laid her on the bed. She scooted back to the headboard as he crawled into the bed next to her. The current between them was strong. Taker knew never in his lifetime, would he find a woman so right for him. And he didn’t plan to lose her.

“Goodnight Shar. We’ll talk in the morning.” He said as he rolled over in the bed and rose to his feet. Without a backwards look, he headed for the door and closed it behind him. Leaving a stunned Shar sitting in the bed, wondering what was that all about.

“What the hell was that? And what in the world is wrong with you Shar? You love Dave. You’re here to find the man you love. How could you have wanted to make love to this strange man? I can’t go on like this. He’s driving me crazy. Why did you walk away from me Taker? I wante dyou so bad. There I finally admitted. I wanted him very much.” She slumped down in to the bed, hugging her pillow, as the tears formed and flowed down her face. She was confused.

Taker leaned against her room door. His chest rising and fallen with each breath. Why didn’t he take her when he had the chance? No. This isn’t the way he wanted it to be between them, right now. He needed to know for sure, she wasn’t trying to replace him for her husband. He quickly left her door and went to his room without a sound. From around the corner of the hallway, a small figure emerged. Gave a long glance towards Shar’s room, another to Taker’s. Then, slowly made their way down the hall, pass each room and onto the elevator.

Chapter Fifteen

The next morning, Shar was awaken by the shrill ringing of the phone. She jumped straight up in bed, pausing momentarily, trying to shake the sleep. Once partially alert, realized the phone was ringing. She snatched up the receiver, fearing it may be Taker and she might miss his call. But, to her dismay, it was another’s voice coming from the other end.

“Good morning! I’m looking to speak with a Mrs. Doyle. This Inspector Gomez.” The heavy accented voice flowed into her ear. She felt her nerves tensing. Now fully aware of everything, her memory of the night before triggered the danger she had put herself in.

“Yes! This is she.” She informed him, voice beginning to shake. She played with the cord, trying to contain herself, futilely. Her mind searched for some refugee. Only one came to mind. Taker! Where was he when she needed him the most?

In answer to that question. A knock sounded at her door. Her eyes darted in the direction, as she tried to concentrate on what the Inspector was saying on the other end. She moved to the door, with phone in hand. She hoped it was Taker. She took the phone from her ear, holding it to her abdomen, to muffle her voice. Then she out to whoever was on the other side of the door.

“It’s me, Teresa!” She answered. Shar, looked to the ceiling, as if trying to seem the heavens through them. Wondering why her. Then opened the door, beckoning her to come in.

Teresa entered, preparing to say something, until she noted Shar’s was on the phone. She silently passed her and took a seat on the bed, trying to appear to be ignoring who Shar was talking to.

“Yes Inspector. I’m still here. Someone was at my door and I had to let them in. Sorry about the interruption.” She explained, apologetic. Teresa’s ears perked up, at the mention of the word “Inspector”.

“Okay! I’ll met you then.” She finishing the phone call. Standing and cradling the phone to her heart, chills ran up and down her back. Something about all this didn’t pan out right. There was more to her husband’s downed plane then she figured. She was so deep in thought, she didn’t hear Teresa calling her for the fourth time.

“Shar! Shar! What was that all about?” Teresa now stood in front of her, slightly touching her arm. Shar, came out of the daze, staring her in the eyes.

“Wh-what?” She looked at her. Her head was beginning to hurt. Not to mention her nerves were shocked.

“What were you doing talking to an Inspector? Did they find my brother?” She asked, genuinely concerned for the phone call.

“Huh? Oh, no Teresa. They didn’t find Dave. This was about something else that had occurred.” She explained to Teresa.

“What? What happened?” Teresa asked, placing both hands on each arm of Shar’s. Shar looked at her strangely.

“Nothing you need to worry about.” She answered, shrugging her hands off and moving away from her towards the balcony, staring out.

“Oh! I see! You’re keeping information from me now, as you did when you decided to make this trip.” Teresa said, with her back to her, staring to the outside door. Shar, didn’t answer for a moment. Then, turned to her slowly.

“Teresa. Something happened last night that had nothing to do with your brother’s disappearance. It happened with me. And I will deal with it. You need not be part of this situation. Okay?” She explained to her sternly. Teresa kept her back to her. Shar could see by her body movement, she was inhaling deeply.

“Okay! But I bet that big thug you hired, is in on this. So I tell you what. I’m going to stay out of your way and ask nothing of you. If you want to talk, you no where to find me.” She snapped and stomped out of the room, slamming the door behind her.

Shar made an attempt to stopped her, but she had reached the door, being closer to it. Shar shrugged her shoulders. She’ll tend to her later. There were more pressing things to deal with right now. She went to take a shower, getting ready to go meet with the Inspector.

Shar finished getting ready for her meeting with the inspector. She put her hair up in an ponytail! She decided to wear her khaki pants and matching jacket. With a sleeveless shirt and ankle high black boots.

She sat thinking about the mess she had gotten herself in. All because she went against the rules set by Taker and stole out into the night to get information on her husband. Not once, but twice. And the latter proving to be a very dangerous rendezvous.

She cast her eyes on the phone, contemplating if she should call him and ask him to accompany her to the police station. She picked it up and raised it to her ear momentarily. Then she placed it at her heart, as her mind drifted back to the night before. She could still feel his breath next to her cheek.

The palm of her hand still vibrated from the pulsating of his heart beat on it, as he as he carried her to the bed. She remembered how she anticipating him making love to her, when he laid her on the bed and followed behind. And then, quite abruptly, he stopped. Said his goodnights, moved away from her off the bed and left her in the heat of the moment.

She slowly lowered the phone, placing it back in its cradle. He was still angry at her for endangering herself. He as much told her. And more! He was in Love with her and knew she was with him. No it’s best to leave him to himself for a while.

He wouldn’t want to go with her at this present time. At least not until he cooled down. Her eyes turned from the phone and towards the balcony. She lazily rose from the bed and made her way over to it. She was as a animal stalking, as she slid up to the window and peered out. His balcony was empty. So much for a sneak peek, she thought.

Not wanting to delay the encounter with the inspector any farther. She headed out the room and grabbing her bag as she went by the bed. She knew she had some explaining to do big time. She waited for the elevator to reach her floor and taking little glances over to Taker’s room. She had hoped he would happened to come out. Her hopes were dashed, when the elevator dinged and the doors slid open. She was still staring towards his door, as the doors slowly closed.

She made her way through the lobby, after exiting the elevator. She ran to the curb and tried to flag down a taxi. It took a few minutes before luck happened her way. One came to a stop in front of her. She told him where to take her, then they sped away.

Her mind kept playing over the events of the night before. She was rehearsing what she was going to tell the inspector, when he drilled her on why she was in such a deserted area of the city. How was she going to explain why she opted to meet him alone? She knew he would ask what was her relationship to the dead man.

She peered out the window from time to time, giving her mind a rest from her thoughts. Then it would drift back to Taker and their confrontation. Then to them almost making love. And finally to his swift exit. No, she thought! This is ALL wrong! Dave is still her husband and the only reason she is down here is to find him. Or worst! His body.

She glanced out the window once again. That’s when she noticed something strange. They weren’t heading for the station at all! They were no longer in the city. She raised up in her seat, stretching her neck to see. She turned around to look in the rear window. Yes, they were definitely out of the city. She turned to the front of the car, staring at the oncoming countryside. Where were they going?

“Driver! Stop! Yo voy a la Oficina de la Policia!” She screamed. Not very good Spanish. But it would do, she thought. He never turned to acknowledge her request.

“Turn this car around!” She screamed. She began to panic. Where is he taking her? She attempted to open the doors and jump out. But they were locked.

She looked out the back window. The city was moving slowly away. She could barely make it out. Her mind drifted to Taker! She felt she would never see him again. Her heart began to beat against her chest. Three strikes and you’re out. But this time she was doing the right thing. She didn’t put herself in danger. Or maybe the person who was killed had enemies. And they felt she knew something.

Thoughts of doom raced through her mind. She turned her eyes back to the front window. Just ahead of them, she could barely make out something in the road. Someone was waving the taxi down. To the side of the road sat a car.

The taxi pulled up behind the other car. The man went to the back passenger side of the car and opened the door. Someone stepped out and headed for the taxi. Whoever it was didn’t want to be recognized. They wore a long coat. A hat covered their head and dark glasses shielded their face.

The person came up side the car and opened the door where Shar sat. Then he peered in. They slowly took off the guise and smiled at Shar. She took a long look, gasped in horror and fainted. The person smiled, beckoning for the man. He reached in and pulled Shar out of the car and carried her to the waiting car. He told the taxi driver to go back to town. Then he turned and followed the other man carrying Shar. The taxi driver sped away, heading back towards town.

Chapter Seventeen

Teresa was fuming since she left Shar’s room. How dare she play these little games with her? She paced back in forth. She has always tried to be a sister to her since the day her brother brought her home to meet the family.

She didn’t quite understand why her brother would want a lady, considering the type of women he dated. Shar was in the norm. But after getting to know her, she realized she had a wild side. A sort of smoldering fire in her waiting to be fanned. One her brother could never appreciate.

Shar was too good for the likes of him. How many times had she shielded her from her brothers indiscretions? Even now she continues to keep her from finding out the truth of the matter.

“Dammit Shar!” She flopped on the bed. Tears began to fill her eyes. Yes, she has tried to hide many truths. Especially one of her own.

“If you only knew Shar. If you only knew!” She allow the tears to flow down her cheeks. She took out a picture she kept with her. It was one she took with Shar when they went on a family outing.

From the day of the announced engagement, a feeling hit Teresa. She thought maybe it was the fact her brother was going to marrying such a classy lady, he definitely didn’t deserve. She thought that old sibling rivalry was taking her over. Because he had Shar and she had no one. But sessions with her analyzes, opened a can of worms. The truth raised it’s ugly head.

“I’m in LOVE with you Shar! I’m in love with you!” She fell back on the bed, crying uncontrollably!

Taker had tossed and turned all night long. He kept going over in his mind the danger Shar continues to expose herself. He made one big flip on his back, slowly arousing out of his sleep. He could barley hear the knocking at his door. He laid there trying to clear his head of the fog. He looked over to his brother’s bed and saw he wasn’t in it. He looked towards the bathroom and it was empty also. His brother wasn’t there.

“Alright, alright!” He said, slinging the covers off him and jumping out the bed. He looked back at the vacant bed of his brother’s.

“Yeah! What’cha doing here so early?” Taker opened the door, staring into the faces of Bradshaw and Farooq.

“Early? Man it’s nearly Ten o’clock!” Farooq informed him, as Bradshaw and him moved passed him into the room. Taker looked over at the clock. No wonder Kane wasn’t there. He must be down eating the Complimentary Breakfast.

“Besides! I got more information on this family your Girl married into.” Bradshaw said this with raised eyebrows and a quick glance over to Farooq, who smiled mischievously. Taker stared at the two, not feeling like their antics this morning.

“Wha’cha got?” Is all he would say. Bradshaw handed him the folder. Taker took it from his hand and took a seat on his bed, while Bradshaw and Farooq took seats at the table. After a moment of silence, Takers head jerked up to the two.

“Is this a fact?” Taker asked. Bradshaw smiled. Taker laid the folder on the bed. He picked up his cigarettes off the night table, pulling one from the pack, as he stared into space.

“What ya going ta do, Take?” Farooq asked. He knew when he was silent like this, he had a difficult decision to make.

Taker made his way past the sliding door, leading out onto the balcony. Once out there, his head turned to Shar’s balcony. He was hoping she didn’t come out. He lit the cigarette and took a pull on it. This had to be handled with the greatest of delicacy.

Kane woke early in the morning. He looked over to his brother. He had come in the night before seemly upset over something. Whatever it was, he wasn’t sharing. He knew not to press Taker on anything.

He heard the tossing and turning most of the night. So when he woke and saw him sleeping soundly, he didn’t want to wake him. He took his shower and left the room, going to get a quiet breakfast.

He was sitting in the little restaurant enjoying the food, thinking of ways they could solve this case so they could return home. His eyes caught a glimpse of a woman rushing through the lobby in army fatigues. She hailed down a taxi after a few failed attempts. It was Shar! He wondered where she was going.

He watched as they drove away and something drifted to the back of his head. There was something peculiar about this taxi. He couldn’t quite put his finger on it, but definitely different from the others.

He threw it back into this mind and continue to enjoy his meal. He watched Bradshaw and Farooq exiting a taxi and hurriedly moved through the lobby. He got the feeling something was up, so he finished his breakfast and headed up to his room to find out what information they had.

Kane entered the room, rubbing his stomach. He looked over to the two sitting at the table, then to his brother out on the balcony. He sensed something knew had occurred.

“What’s going on fellows?” He asked coming to stand next to the table and staring at his brother.

“We just gave you brother some bit of news. I think he’s trying to figure out how to handle it.” Farooq answered.

Kane started for the balcony when the phone rung. He turned back to it and picked up. Taker cocked his ears, thinking maybe Shar saw him out on the balcony and wanted to talk about last night. He wasn’t in the mood.

“No this is his brother. Hold for a moment. TAKER!!” Kane yelled to the balcony! Taker mashed the cigarette out in the ashtray and slowly walked back into the room. He took the phone from his brother.

“Yeah?” He said to the other person on the phone. Farooq and Bradshaw looked at Kane with questioning eyes. Kane never noticed, he was busy trying to hear the conversation.

“Okay Inspector! I’ll see if she’s there and we’ll be there in a few.” Taker finished the phone call and returned the receiver back to the cradle. The three men waited impatiently. Taker was deep in thought. His eyes resting on the phone.

“Taker? What was that all about?” Kane initiating the inquiries. Taker looked at him puzzled.

“The Inspector wants to see me about something that happened last night. He said he talked to Shar about thirty minutes ago. She was supposed to be there by now. He said she doesn’t answer her phone either. I’m going to go see what is holding her up.” Taker looked at the three men, with an concerned expression.

“She’s not there, Taker! She left sometime ago. I watched her take a taxi.” Kane informed him. Taker’s eyes widen.

“I wonder where did she go? She wouldn’t miss an important meeting like this.” Taker seem to becoming very nervous. Kane looked at the others. His brother’s feelings for this woman was deeper than he thought.

“I don’t think so Taker. She seemed like she was in an hurry when I saw her.” Kane confirmed his fears.

“Okay ya’ll! I need your help to find her. So I’m going to tell you guys everything that has happened since we have been here.” Taker knew he couldn’t handled all of this alone. He sat on the bed and prayed nothing has happened to the woman he loved.

Chapter Nineteen

Teresa went into the bathroom to clean her face and regain her composure. Her love for her brother’s wife had dictated all she had done. She hated him and loved him too. But her love for Shar had overtaken her. She was the light in her dull life. When her brother disappeared. She felt Shar and her finally had a chance. But not so. She continued to love him anyway. Even after death.

But her brother wasn’t her worry. It was someone else. That big biker thug. He had taken her Shar’s love. She couldn’t let that happened. Some way some how, she was going to deal with him. As she did her brother. The phone ringing brought her out of her thoughts.

“YES!” She yelled into the phone, irritated she had been disturbed.

“What?” She slowly sat down on the bed, listening to the person on the other end.

“NO! NO! NO!” She went hysterical, yanking the phone out of the socket and throwing it across the room. She stomped around the room, pulling at her hair. Suddenly a knock at her door distracted her. She rushed over to it.

“What do you want?” She yelled at John the family lawyer.

“I heard the noise over hear and thought maybe you needed some assistance.” He said straining his neck to see past her into the room. She turned away from him and walked over to a chair and sat in it, pulling her legs up to her chest.

“This is all wrong John!” She said sadly. He cocked his head to one side as he closed the door behind him.

“What do you mean?“ He asked more confused by the moment.

“You were suppose to accompany us and keep us safe.” Teresa looked up at him as a child.

“You are safe. What is it, Teresa?” He came to kneel in front of her. He had seen this side of her many times. Especially when she loses control of the situation.

“Yes! I’m safe. But Shar isn’t!” She stared passed him. His eyes grew larger than eggs.

“What do you mean Shar isn’t safe?” He asked going to call her room. Bt after seeing the phone ripped from the wall, his cell phone and frantically dialed her room.

When he got no answered, he panicked. This will cost him his job for sure. He looked to Teresa. She had drifted within herself. He knew it was no way he would get anything out of her now. He thought of one other person who should know. Taker!

“It was the funniest thing about this taxi. It had a different coloring than the others.” Kane informed Taker.

“Do ya think ya could recognize it again?? Taker asked. Kane nodded.

“Why don ya go stake it out? See if it makes its way back here.” Taker asked of his brother. Kane laid his hand on his brother’s shoulder in support of him. He wanted him to know, they will find her.

“I’m going to do some more research. Farroq, you come with me! I need some of your abilities.” Bradshaw turned to his friend. They nodded to Taker and left him to himself.

He went to get ready to go see the inspector. He will have to know of her disappearance. Maybe the police have information they could use. Taker was going to take a shower when a constant pounding came at his door. He moved swiftly thinking it may be Shar. His hopes were dimmed.

“Why are ya going crazy on my door? Unless the police has notified ya?” Taker stared at John standing in his door way out of breath. Teresa stood next to him out of tune with the world.

“No they didn’t! Teresa told me she wasn’t safe and blanked out on me.” John replied, taking Teresa to a chair and assisting her in it. Taker’s eyebrows raised as he stared at the once fiery woman, to one not even a shadow of her.

“What’s her problem? And how did she know?” Taker continued to stare at her expressionless face.

She gets like that when she loses control of things she has started. Mr. Taker! I have the feeling she knows what has happened to Shar. But there is no way we will be able to get through to her. Not for a while. And by that time, may be just too late.” He said this with great sadness. Taker stared for a moment, allowing what he said to sink in. Then when he realized what John was saying, he drove his fist into the wall.

Shar felt herself floating on air! There was a dense cloud in front of her, as she seem to be moving in one direction. Just ahead of her, she could hear voices. They were barely audible enough for her to make out. But they seem to be very familiar!

As she moved closer to her destination, the voice became distinct. Yes, she thought! Two men! And she thought she could just make them out! She continue onwards. As close as she came, clearer the voices became. She felt as if she was at her journeys in, when she realize who one voice in particular belonged to.

“Dave!” She screamed coming out of her unconsciousness. She shot up on the bed she had been lying. She searched the room desperately, until her eyes fell on someone sitting in a corner of the room.

“Hello Shar! I see you have awaken.” The man said to her. Shar’s breathing became rapid and shallow. She stared at him intensely.

“Mr. Doyle! I don’t understand. What is going on here?“ She asked of her father in-law! The older man rose from the chair he had been sitting and slowly approached his bewildered daughter in-law.

“I’m here to protect you my dear!“ He said, sitting on the edge of the bed with sincerely in his eyes. Shar gave him a puzzled expression.

Taker slowly removed his hand from the hole in the wall it had made. He began to flex his hand opened and closed. He turned and headed for the small kitchen to retrieve some ice before the hand began to swell.

“Did ya know about the embezzlement charges against Shar’s old man??” Taker never looked up to John as he pour the ice tray of ice in a cloth and wrapped it around his hand. John was silent, which caused Taker to look up from his task to him. From the stunned look, he figured the family had kept him in the dark too.

“What?” Is the only word that would slip from his mouth. Taker’s mouth formed a smirk. Someone to work with he thought.

“Yeah! Look in the folder on my bed. Ya’ll git pretty much all the info your employers decided to keep from ya.” Taker nodded his head towards his bed.

John turned and spotted the vanilla folder lying like a beacon on the bed. he cautiously moved to it. Stared momentarily at it as if it were a King Cobra ready to strike. He eased his hand towards it and nervously picked it up.

Taker watched as John opened it up and began to read. He leaned against the refrigerator, thinking about Shar. Then his eyes moved to Teresa, still in her stupor. He never liked her from the moment he laid eyes on her. And he felt she knew something. This little escape to la la land didn’t phase him one bit.

“What the HELL!” John’s voice filled the small room. Taker thought he saw Teresa slightly flinched. He looked over to John, who was now reading more of the folder.

“Where did you get this info?” John looked up to Taker.

“It’s not important where. What’s important is, if this is true, what does this have to do with Shar?” Taker asked, the strain noticeable in his voice. He walked over to John, passing by Teresa.

“Yeah! I have worked for years with these people. They withheld important information as this. And also Shar!” John added.

“Yeah! I wonder where is she?” Taker asked, looked quickly to John. Then walked out onto the balcony, staring as if in search for the woman he loved.

Kane was walking up and down the cub, waiting to see if the taxi he spotted taking Shar would reappear. He was wondering how his brother was holding up, when someone moved up behind him and tapped his shoulder. Kane spun in a defensive mode.

“Whoa, buddy! Bradshaw figured you made need a little help to convince that taxi cab driver to tell us where he too Shar.” Farooq backed away with hands up, as he spoke to Kane.

“Okay! That sounds like a plan. Hey! There he is now!” Kane shouted to Farroq! Both men walked casually over to the cab.

“Hey fella! Can you give us an ride?” Farooq asked as the entered the cab. The driver never looked up to them, nodded his head and pulled the flag down to start their fare. The cab moved away from the hotel. The two men anticipating the pleasure they will soon enjoy!

Chapter Twenty-One

“What do you mean, protect me? From What?” Shar thought a moment, gazed into her Father-in-laws’ eyes. She saw something she didn’t like.

“Or should I say from Whom.” She said, never taking her eyes from the old weary ones.

“I always told Pops you were the right one for me. So trusting and so naive.” The voice enter the room along with the body. Shar shrunk back against the wall. Stunned speechless. The old man rose from his chair and exited the room. Leaving Shar to her fate.

“I can’t believe this SHIT!” John yelled to the top of his voice. Taker never looked back into the room from the balcony, where he stood searching the streets for some sign of Shar.

“I was loyal to you ALL. I kept my mouth shut about a LOT of illegal crap your family has done. And this is how you repay me. Oh My God!” John said. Taker sense something in his voice that his mind remembered something. He turned quickly and came back into the room, staring at a nearly white faced John.

“You remembered something didn’t you? Don’t phase out on me now John. Shar’s life maybe in danger here.” Taker walked up to him, frantic. John stared at him, then sat slowly down on the bed.

“What man. Tell me!” Taker was moments from shaking him back into reality.

“You’re right, Taker. That poor sweet Lady never stood a chance did she? They had it out for her from the very beginning.” John said sadly.

“John, listen to me. I need you to come back. Shar needs me. And I can help her. If you know something, tell me please.” Taker’s eyes were tearing. John looked at them and saw something there that gave him the strength to pull out of his downward spiral.

“Shar is a wealthy woman and doesn’t know it. One day this folder shows up on my desk. I skimmed through it, because it was marked urgent. In it was some money that had been put into an thrust fund for Shar. I wondered but didn’t question. So is my success in this family. Do without question. I brought it to the attention of her husband Dave, figuring he had placed there for me to do something with it. He seemed a little flustered and took it form me. Stating he had another attorney working on it. Giving some excuse about how over worked I was.” John told him the story.

“Did you ever mention this to Shar, to see if she knew about it?” Taker asked, needing as much information about everyone’s roll in this escapee. John eyes lit.

“You know what, I was going over her assets one day. I asked her if she had any hidden money’s she was withholding form me. She looked at me with great surprise. Then said, ‘Why would I have any hidden money? And why would I withhold anything form you? Your my Lawyer. I thought you new me better than that.’ I felt really bad, she got really quiet after that. No, Mrs. Doyle wouldn’t be doing anything underhanded. She isn’t like this family. I often wondered...........” He grew silent. Taker looked at him. Then something struck him.

“You’re in love with her. Aren’t you?” One man’s heart to another. John rose form the bed and walked pass him unto the balcony. Taker watched and elected to allow him his moment. Then he went over to the phone, called Bradshaw and told him about the Trust fund. Asking if he could get more information on it.

The two men were so busy, neither saw when Teresa came to life after the mention of the trust fund. When John went out on the balcony and Taker turned his back, talking to Bradshaw, she slipped out of the room unnoticed.

“Isn’t it strange how a little Whup Ass can persuade people to cooperate?” Farooq said to Kane as he knocked the cab driver out.

“Yeah! Help me tie him up. He said he met a limo in this spot. It could have been he doesn’t know where exactly they took her.” Kane looked around the area trying to see if he could discover something helpful. Farooq joined him.

“KANE!” Farooq yelled. Kane ran over to the road where he was squatted, looking at some tire tracks.

“This was an heavy car, like a Limo. It leads in that direction. What do you want to do?” Farooq asked.

“DAVE!” Shar’s voice was shaky. He looked into his wife’s eyes.

“Yes my love.” He mocked her, coming to sit on the bed in front of her.

“Y-y-you were presumed dead or missing.” She finally got the words out.

“Yeah, go figure.” He said. His eyes stayed on her. But in them, she saw coldness. Not the warm love he once if ever had for her.

“Why am I here?” She asked, wringing her hands nervously. He glared at her for a moment than rose form the bed.

“Well, my dear wife. You have something of mines.” He leaned against the wall, head resting on his forearm.

“What? What are you talking about? What can I possibly have of yours that I would gladly give back to you?” She began to regain her composure. He turned his head to stare at her. Then took a deep breath and allowing it to slowly escape.

“You have some money of mines I put in a trust fund. And here’s the killer. I can’t get it unless you’re dead.” He said, laughing at the shock taking over her face.

“Teresa!” Taker yelled. John ran in from the balcony to discover she had left the room. Taker was out in the hallway calling for her. Then he ran back into the room.

“Damn! She was probably our only bargaining chip.” Taker kicked the chair, sending it flying across the room. John slightly jumped. Then the phone rung.

“Yeah! Where? You think you two can handle it? Okay, good decision. Keep me in touch.“ Taker set the receiver back in the cradle. Then he looked over to John.

“They found the cab driver who kidnapped Shar. The got him to tell them where he took her. Seems he doesn’t know exactly where they took her. But he took her to some place out of the city to the north and met up with this limo. Two men knocked her out with something, I’m figuring chloroform and then left with her.” Taker informed him. John walked around the room, as if trying to remember something.

“To the north you say?” John asked. Taker looked over at him.

“Yeah! You remembering something else?” He asked. A smile come over his face.

“Just say after the little trust fund thing. I began to research their assets. I don’t know why I didn’t think of this before, maybe because I didn’t think they were as underhanded as I know now.” John explaining to Taker. But at this moment he didn’t want explaining, he wanted something that would help him to save the woman he loved.

‘Okay John, I understand all of that, just ell me an location.” Taker going out of his mind.

“Let’s go. I’ll take you there.” John ran pass Taker and out the door. Taker close behind.

“What do you mean? Money and my death?” Shar was trying to figure this craziness out. Dave walked back over to her, stood hovering.

“Let me see if I can explain this so even you can understand.” He said with some distain in his voice. Shar looked at this man she had loved for so long and wonder at what point in time did he change. Or if he had ever changed. Could she had been so naive and in love she didn’t see this side of him. And the more hurting thing. That he never loved her at all.

“There is some money I put in a trust fund for you. I put it in my father’s name so if anything should happen to you. He would get it. I had to fake my death, because how I got the money in the first place. Now do you get it?” He said and turned away from her. Shar sat shocked out of her mind. The tears swelled in her eyes. This man she loved was a pure monster.

“I understand now. I’m going to disappear and presumed dead.” Shar allow these words to come out of her mouth. Wanting them to give her a great impact on how much her life was a lie. he looked at her and smiled.

“You’re not as naive as everyone thought you were.” He went to leave the room when he heard some commotion in the outer room. His father was talking with someone. He opened the door to see and closed the door behind him. Shar could hear them talking to whoever was in the room with them. Their voices grew louder.

Then everything seem to get quiet. Then were a loud scream and a thud. And then another and a thud. Then she heard the foot steps coming towards the room she was being held prisoner. It slowly opened. Then the person entered the room. Shar just stared as they came towards her.

Shar slowly found herself climbing out of the dark abyss she had fallen. She could barely feel the warm soft touch of something caressing her skin. Her eyelids lazily parted, allowing the sunlight to seep in. She felt her senses arousing. It was early morning or late evening. She wasn’t sure. She was in that place as you wake, when time or place is unknown.

“I see you are awake, my darling.” The voice touched her ear. She turned to look into the loving eyes of her Dave.

“Dave? I knew you wouldn’t hurt me. I knew you still loved me. I knew it was ALL your father’s doing.” She began to mumble. A finger touched her lips ever so gently to still her voice.

“Shhh! My darling. That is ALL in the past now. All that is important is we’re here together.” The voice comforted her. She felt his body move into the bed beside her, under the thin cloth that shielded her nude body. The first time she noticed she was unclothed.

“I took the liberty of giving you nice bath. I felt it would relax you. And it did. You slept like a baby.” The voice informed her, seeing she noticed herself without clothing. Then the gentle hand reached over and caress the side of her face. She felt her body tingle from his touch. She looked upwards into his loving eyes. His face bent down and his lips covered hers. She surrendered to his kiss.

But there was something strange and different about his kiss. Maybe it was the time spent away from her. Maybe it was the thought he had scared her back at the cabin and wanted to make it up to her. But one thing for sure, it was different. More deeper and passionate than he had ever kissed her before.

“I thought these cabs were made for this terrain. I guess they aren’t. We better call Taker and let him know we’re stuck in the mud.” Kane reluctantly pulled out his cell phone to call Taker.

“Kane wait! Here comes a car.” Farooq ran out to flag it down.

“You Gents need a lift?” Taker asked his brother and friend.

“How did you find us?” Kane asked coming towards the SUV his brother was driving with John on the passenger side.

“John was informed of some dirty dealing his employers were involved in. He remembered the cabin nearby here. We’re on our way there. Hop in and I’ll fill you in on it.” Taker said to Kane and Farooq. Both men got in the back of the car, settling in, waiting to here what they found out.

His hand brushed over her breast, causing them to instantly harden. Then embraced her breast kneading as a woman would dough. She moaned from deep within her chest. This caused him to leave her lips and gather her nipple between his teeth, gently nimble on it. This was an first for him.

“The dirty low down dog.” Kane said after his brother told them everything. Then Taker’s cell phone rung. It was Bradshaw with even worst news.

“That was Bradshaw. There is an even worst downside to all of this. The old man is the beneficiary if anything is to happen to Shar. She never claimed the trust fund, because she never knew about. She was being used All this time. That’s where the embezzled money went. She wasn’t suppose to know. Neither were you John.” Taker looked over to John who was getting red behind the ears. He was staring out the car window at nothing in particular. Just praying they would get there in time to save Shar.

His hand slowly smoothed over her mid section and downward to the dark patch, sliding between her thighs. She let out a wimp in anticipation. He pulled on one of her thighs to widen the space between her legs. Then his hands slide down into the slit, capturing the clit, tickling and pinching it.

She felt her body coming alive for the first time in a long time. The fingers advanced onward into the wet soft tissue. Her hips bucked slightly. Strange, they didn’t feel as bulky or clumsy as usual. Very deliberate and precise.

There’s the road that leads up to the cabin.” John said pointing to an cut off from the highway. Taker turned up into it driving slow as to not alarm them of their approach. They parked the SUV a little distance from the opening, where the cabin sat.

“It seems awfully quiet, don’t you think?” Taker asked. Farooq gestured he would go up and around to see what was going on.

After a few moments. Farooq exited the cabin and signaling everything was clear. The three men cautiously approached the cabin not sure what to make of it.

“I think you better see this.” Farooq told them, then turned and went back into the cabin, as they came near. Inside they found the two men, lying in pools of blood. The younger man definitely dead. The Older still fighting for his last breath.

His finger played with her in away she had never known him to do before. She widen her legs more and slightly raised her hips so he had better access to her point of pleasure. This was all to strange. This wasn’t the Dave she knew.

John went over to the younger man. Touched his carotid on the side of his throat and looked over to the three men, shaking his head. He went over to the older man and bend down to him, staring into his fear stricken face.

“I gather the stiff over there is Dave?” Taker asked as John kneeled before the old man. He nodded his head. Taker let out a breath of relief. Someone saved him the trouble of taking him out.

Maybe the time away had caused him to change. His mouth released the sore nipple, then he looked into her eyes with such love. She fully awake and out of the anesthesia given to her when she was taken from the cabin.

“She............has her.........” His voice weak as he tried to catch as much air as his lungs would allow.

“She? She who?” John inquired. Looking up to Taker.

“Did this she shoot the both of you?” Taker asked without any feelings.

“Yes!” The old man answered, still taking in the last of his air.

“Who? The lady who Dave was seeing?” John asked.

“No......................Teresa!” He said with his dying breath.

She could see clearly who it was making love to her with such care and passion. Her eyes widen, in complete shock. As the person moved down between her legs and with a smile, went down on her.

“Teresa! Nooooooo!” She screamed.

Chapter Twenty-Three

“Don’t you die yet, you old geezer. Don’t you dare die and not tell me where your psycho bitch daughter has taken Shar.!“ Taker pounced on the deceased man, grabbing him at the throat. Trying to shake what little life in him out. All three men grabbed him and pulled him away from the corpse. Taking him out of the cabin to allow the air to clear his head.

“Taker, it won’t do Shar any good if you go out of your mind.” Kane tried to calm his brother down. Taker let out a long loud howl and fell to the ground.

“So close. I nearly hand her within my grasp. And yet she slipped right through my hands.” Taker began to cry, something no one else but his brother had ever witness. The love he housed for this woman was great.

“Maybe Teresa won’t harm her.” John trying to reassure Taker and himself.

“What makes you think that hot shot lawyer? You didn’t even know they were doing stuff right under your nose. Why should I even listen to you. You don’t know a DAMN thing.” Taker yelled at him. He then rose to his feet, hesitating for a moment, brushing himself off. Before he and began walking away.

“Well one thing I do know. Shar’s body isn’t in there with the other two. That should count for something.” John’s voice was low and quiet. He had taken offense to the ’hot shot lawyer’ comment. Taker turned and looked at John. He stared at him for a instant thinking. Then his eyes went to the cabin and to the two bodies lying there and not Shar’s. That’s right. It doesn’t make sense. Why would she kill her father and brother? But not Shar. Her death would make more sense. Considering the trust fund.

“Because she is in Love with Shar. Always has been from the moment her brother brought her into the house.” John said. He could tell by Taker’s facial expressions, what was in his thoughts.

Shar lied in the bed, basking in the after glow of many orgasms inflicted on her by Teresa. She had been insatiable. Shar’s hands were handcuffed to the headboard rods. She discovered this when she tried to protest what Teresa was doing. Her body had betrayed her by responding to everything Teresa had done to it. She cried, having conflicted feelings. Her body had never felt so alive and tingling. It felt rejuvenated.

All this time, she thought what Dave had done to her was love making. She would since she was an virgin when she married him. But Teresa showed her the difference between making love and just getting your rocks off. Never had she reached orgasm so many times. She couldn’t count them. Never had anyone assaulted her body, so gentle yet intense. She cried. Because every touch of Teresa’s, made her realized she had never been loved properly.

“You’re awake, my darling. I don’t know about you, but I’m famished. What would you like to eat?” Teresa entered the room, drying her hair. She had just taking an shower and was wearing nothing but a bathrobe. Shar looked up to her and immediately went to those eyes that were so much like her husband’s Dave. But there was a great difference. They held so much love in them for her.

“I’m not hungry Teresa. Could you please release me from these handcuffs. I’m too weak to try anything.” Shar asked, pleadingly. Teresa thought about it for a moment. Than elected to oblige. She went over to Shar, inserted the key and the cuffs opened. Shar’s hands fell to her, she sat up in the bed, rubbing her wrists. She looked at Teresa.

I need to tell you something.” Shar said, beckoning her to come closer, feinting weakness. Teresa fell for it. She moved in, bend down at the waist to hear what it is this beautiful creation she had loved form fist sight had to say.

Quick as lightening, Shar had grabbed her by the arm and pulled her over, where she fell over Shar’s lap. Teresa looked up into her eyes, stunned and afraid what she planned to do. Shar grabbed a handful of Teresa’s hair, stared down into the confused eyes and covered her mouth with her own. Teresa let out a small wimp.

Shar shoved her down into the bed, straddling her hips. She began the kiss her hard and deep, taking both of her nipples between her thumb and index finger. She pinched and tweaked them. Then she lowered her body so their pelvic met. She grind them hard together, as she kissed her and played with her nipples. Teresa moaned as tears flowed from her eyes.

Never in her wildest dreams did she ever think, she would be here in this moment with the woman she loved, making love to her. Teresa regain her composure and flipped Shar over , to become the dominate and her the submissive. But Shar countered by, wrapping her legs around her small waist and flipping her back on her back.

Teresa looked at her and saw the fire in her eyes. Shar began to move down her, kissing and nibbling until she reached her slit. She looked at a dazed Teresa and smiled as she had done, lowering her mouth to taste of the sweet juices of the woman who brought her to life.

Teresa screamed her name as Shar did to her what she had done. But with more fire. The student had surpassed the teacher. They went on and on like this until the setting of the sun. And until the morning sun crept through the curtains. Finishing the lovemaking. Lied in each others arms, satisfied and spent. They drifted off to sleep.

Taker sat on the balcony, staring into space. He never noticed the sun rise. All he knew was the woman he loved was somewhere in this vast city with a psycho. Who was obsessed with her. John said that she wouldn’t hurt Shar. But with all he had found out about this clan, she may have a larger agenda.

“Penny for your thoughts.” Kane out onto the balcony with tow cups of java. He handed one to his brother and sipped from the other.

“I’m probably never going to see her again. I know this sounds cruel. But I had rather found her body on that cabin floor than go though this not knowing.” Taker stared into his cup. Kane shifted from one foot to the other.

“I understand, brother. But remember what John said. She’s in love with Shar. Maybe she rescued her from those two bozos.” Kane tried to comfort his brother.

“If that’s so. Why hasn’t she tried to contact us? It’s been two damn days. What could she be doing to her?” Taker set the cup down and leaned into the balcony wall, staring as if searching. Kane sighed and went back into the room, leaving his brother to his thoughts.