Part 14: Zhu ni hao-yun
Part 14 summary: May Li's plans are revealed. Mr. Parker is involved. Broots has some idea of what might be happening. Miss Parker makes new friends.
Friday
Broots' home
Blue Cove, DelawareThe weak sunlight stirs me awake. It's only a bit past 6 am, but too late for me to still be here. I glance at Broots' sleeping form. He looks so peaceful. With his eyes closed, he is very adorable.
It's the calm before the storm, I remind myself. I have a feeling he won't listen to my warnings about not coming to the exchange. He won't heed my advise; and I know why. Because he doesn't trust me.
I want to kiss him good-bye, but that will definitely wake him. Instead, I slip out of the bed quietly and look for my clothes. I don't remember where they ended up last night. I see my shirt under the chair by the desk. My fingers feel the silky embroidered fabric. I can't believe they make me wear this crap. I am going to file a complaint as soon as this assignment is over. Some bozo came up with this wardrobe for me. I was still in Japan when I got the call to move me here and pose as Lyle's Yakuza contact. When I arrived in the States, they had my papers, luggage, and information - everything was set. "No time to change things, Susan," they said.
The only authentic part of my outfit is the locket around my neck. My mother gave it to me when I was a child. It's has a phrase in Chinese. Zhu ni hao-yun. It means good luck. I clutch it in my fist and sincerely hope for good luck. All of us will need it.
Slowly I slip into these ridiculous clothes. I must be the laughing stock of Blue Cove. I know Broots' friend, that annoying woman, thinks I look like the Spice Girls. I overheard her tell him that the other day. Yet, she did disappear on cue last night. That was nice of her. Maybe she likes to fix people up.
After last night, though, I think we are more than fixed up. Too bad it won't last.
As I head for the door, I glance back at Broots. Good-bye, I mouth silently and open the door. Now, I have to make sure I leave this house without his daughter seeing me. That would be quite difficult to explain. I know he did not want me to meet her when we were decoding the files. My present occupation is not the type you want children to know. I wonder if he would like "Susan" to meet his daughter, though. "May Li" certainly is out of the question, but I like to think Broots and Debbie would like to spend time with Susan. If I remember what it's like to be Susan, of course.
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The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareFriend says Daughter is in trouble. Daughter need Angelo's help. Angelo find out what he can. Vents lead to Mr. Parker's office. Mr. Parker speak about Daughter. Mr. Parker concerned. Voice comes from vent. Angelo see. Mr. Parker talks to speaker phone.
"What do you mean the other sweeper is gone?"
"He hasn't reported to base. We sent another team in. No one has seen your daughter after she left yesterday with some gentlemen."
"And they were?"
"No one is sure, Mr. Parker."
"What is your job?"
"Mr. Parker?"
"What is your job?"
"I... not sure what you mean."
"What I mean is that you obviously are very incompetent. Your job was to make sure my daughter was constantly monitored. Now you and your equally incompetent team has lost her. If her whereabouts are not known to me in five hours, you will answer to the Tower's committee on job performance."
Mr. Parker hangs up. Mr. Parker worried. Mr. Parker touches pictures on desk. Mother and daughter. Mr. Parker love them. Mr. Parker afraid. Mr. Parker whisper, "Angel."
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Highway
Blue Cove, DelawareI had to go home and change. It would be embarrassing if anyone noticed I was still wearing the same clothes from yesterday. Mr. Parker's bimbo secretary might.
Home was vacant. No sign of Lyle. He better be here on Sunday. I am not rescheduling the exchange. I want to get this over with soon. How I regret the day this all started. I was in Japan, working as a mole with the Yakuza. Trying to figure out their American expansion scheme. All was going well, until I got the call to pull out.
The call was brief and to the point. We need a young Asian woman to monitor a weapons exchange between the Yakuza and an American agency. At that point, I had never heard of a Blue Cove, Delaware, nor of the Centre. Certainly now, I wish I never had.
My first meeting with Mr. Parker sent shrills down my spine. He knew my supervisors. He knew the Yakuza as well. He made sure he had my utmost attention and total cooperation.
He did not want me to forget, even for a second, that it's his show and that he is in control.
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Mr. Parker's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, Delaware"Parker here, you wanted to talk to me?"
"The Triumvirate is concerned about your daughter's disappearance. We fear your proposed plan might be compromised if she is a loose canon. We cannot afford a public exposure of the Centre."
"I assured you she will be detained. She's in Europe. She won't interfere."
"Perhaps Mr. Raines' proposal should be taken into consideration. We don't need her for the Pretender nor for the Pretender Breeding Project. Jarod can be taken care of otherwise."
"With all due respect, that is not an acceptable plan. My daughter can't be eliminated like..."
"Like her mother? May I remind you that you signed the order?"
"That was different. My daughter would never betray the Centre."
"Your family is not to be trusted. Your wife made sure of that. And now, your son seems to have different loyalties, Parker. If the Director can't control his family, then how can he be an effective leader?"
"Is this what this is about? Lyle will be taken care of. We all knew that he couldn't be trusted; but the Triumvirate agreed to give him one last chance. At Mr. Raines' insistence, I might add. I told you that I would take care of him if he betrayed us. He has, and so I will. Chang will report today. Her surveillance will confirm our suspicions so that we may take care of damage control."
"Do you trust Chang to handle matters appropriately?"
"Chang and her supervisors are at our disposal. And if Chang turns out to be trouble, I'll personally see to her disposal."
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Mr. Parker's bimbo secretary's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareOnce again, I wait outside Mr. Parker's office for my turn. He's running late. Blonde bimbo is ignoring me. She hasn't even offered coffee. I casually flip through a magazine. But my mind is thinking about this meeting. Dreading it, actually.
My final report on Lyle's activities is in my briefcase. I think the thought of "May Li" carrying a briefcase is so ridiculous given what the public image of her has been so far; but this is ATF Agent Susan Chang reporting here.
My instructors at the Academy told me that there are times in your life that you need to reexamine your choices, however, doing so in the middle of a mission is not a good idea. Well, I am having a hard time focusing here.
On the one hand, I am committed to this mission, to make sure it happens. God knows I have done all I can to ensure a successful completion. Yet, I can't play this part anymore. At least not with Broots. I need to tell him. I feel that I need his trust. His confidence. He needs to know I am not a ruthless killer.
I have become too emotionally involved.
I remember last night when he wanted to call me "May Li" and I stopped him. I needed to hear "Susan" in his lips to feel that he was loving me. Not some Asian caricature. If my mother knew what I was pretending to be, she would have heart attack. I need to file that complaint. This is too offensive. I have done my best to portray my supposed identity, but the set up is all wrong. And the outfits! My God! Did they buy them at a Chinatown garage sale? Or from a Hollywood back lot?
Of course, Lyle bought the whole thing. He's such an idiot really. Perhaps he's smart in other contexts, but when it comes to women he thinks with a different organ. Mr. Parker was right in predicting Lyle would think nothing of me hanging out at the Centre. I can't believe Lyle is so careless. Perhaps he really bought all those bodily harm threats. He hasn't gotten over the thumb incident.
Part of me, of course, fears that Lyle knows what we are up to and will prevent our efforts. Yet, I don't think he suspects anything. Neither do the Yakuza. Only Mr. Parker seems to the truth. And maybe that weird oxygen tank guy.
"Mrs. May Li," blonde bimbo says in a semi-perky voice, "Mr. Parker will see you now."
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Renewal Wing
The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareI feel that I am becoming Angelo. I do like the guy, he has such a sweet smile, but this vent crawling deal is not for me. Yet, I have to make sure I grab all the samples from Dr. Raines' office. I could take the easy route, but everyone felt it was better if we got them out through the vent system. Angelo and James both offered to do that; although I know James really did not want to do it. Seems he often gets trapped in Dr. Raines' office. I didn't ask.
But I can't let anyone see the samples. I know whose they are now. I don't think Jarod nor this Marisa Parker would want anyone else to know what's in the containers.
I told everyone I would get the containers out and empty out the samples. James will then deposit the empty containers along with the stuff Lyle is going to sell to the Yakuza this weekend. He will do so en route or at the site. He doesn't want to do so in the Centre for fear of any of the cameras catching us in the act. I have glanced at some samples of Dr. Raines' "home video" collection. It's like he records life for later living.
James assures me I shall have ten minutes to get the stuff out while he crashes the camera system. The lights will flicker when the interrupt begins.
Dr. Green and James want to make sure the samples are out of the Centre right after I snatch them from Dr. Raines' office. Leave no trail leading back to us. I told them I would get them out as soon as possible, but I don't want anyone to suspect why I am leaving early.
The samples will be gone from the premises soon, I said. I didn't tell them, however, what I will do with them. It's not my choice to make.
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Mr. Parker's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, Delaware"As you predicted, sir, Lyle is indeed filtering money out of the Centre into offshore accounts and selling Centre property in the black market. But he is not working alone. I haven't figured out exactly who is helping him," I say to the semi-interested man across the desk from me. I can't figure out if he really cares about anything I am saying right now. After all, it's all in the report.
"That's not important at this point. What I need is a copy of all the accounts and access numbers so that we may recover the funds after the exchange has gone down."
"It's in page 15 of the report, sir. About the exchange, do you plan to be there?"
"Certainly not. As I told your ATF superiors, only Lyle and some of his sweepers will be there. When you arrest them all, no one is to come after anyone else in the Centre." He is using that authoritative tone he enjoys so much. I wonder if he talks to his children this way. Well, after the exchange, he might only talk to one of them.
"Yes, sir. My superiors have made it clear that we only want the Yakuza and Lyle. The trail ends with him. The Centre has total immunity. And of course, you are not required to collaborate in the investigation; however, it would be beneficial if you..."
"As I told you before, all you get is the Yakuza and Lyle. Nothing more. The Centre is not involved at all."
"Yes, sir, but the district attorney informs me that our case would be stronger if we had access to the exchange materials. We need more evidence." I really hate this conversation. I know he will say no, but some of my superiors want me to try. As if Mr. Parker listens to any suggestions.
"Agent Chang, I have told you repeatedly that the Centre materials are not to leave the Centre. Lyle will only think he has the files and data in his possession; we are to switch all cases before heading out to the meeting. Your office and the district attorney should be grateful to the Centre that we are willing to offer you the opportunity of arresting some prominent members of the Yakuza. The money they will be delivering and the circumstances is evidence enough."
He's exasperated. He brusquely rings the intercom and informs the blonde bimbo, "Mrs. May Li is leaving now, please send the next person."
My meeting is officially over. I get up and gather my things. I never told him that Broots helped me. I did not want to endanger him. Mr. Parker's immunity deal might not apply to him. I look him over again and notice he's more interested in the written report than in talking to me.
But I haven't told him the punch line yet. "Mr. Parker, I uncovered some other files that might be of interest to you. They are in the appendix to my report. It's about your son's other activities. He seems to have staged an assassination of a man in Maine..."
Mr. Parker looks up annoyed. He knows? "But there is more, Mr. Parker. I don't know how to say this, but I fear your son might want to... harm his sister."
I can't read his expression clearly, but it doesn't register any surprise. I guess the Parkers are like a Greek Tragedy; devouring their children, murdering their siblings. I'll be happy when I am away from here. I head to the door when I him calling me "Agent Chang." I turn around and Mr. Parker is looking at me. I think this is the first time he makes eye contact during this meeting.
"You must think I'm an awful father for setting up my own son, but then again, you don't know what's at stake. Remember you are not here to think, just to act." He's right about that.
I nod back to him and leave.
I can't believe he told me that. He is not the type to confide in anyone; but I guess even the devil needs to confess now and then.
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Jesuit Guest Quarters
Rome, Italy"Julia, I'm so happy to finally reach you."
"Father Jarod! Yes, I'm sorry, we have had a minor family emergency. You wouldn't believe it if I told you. It was quite... an experience. But, what did you want to speak to me about?"
"A close friend of mine has vanished and I suspect that less than official channels are my best bet of finding her. Can I possibly arrange a meeting with someone in your family to help me look for her?"
"Certainly, Father. Give me all the information on her and I'll alert my brother. He can get in touch with you once we have more information. I think he'll be happy to have an outside project right now."
"Great! Her name is Miss Parker. She..."
"Excuse me, did you say Parker? Miss Parker?"
"Yes, is something wrong?"
"Father Jarod, I'm going to have to call you back."
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The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareMaria should have gotten the samples out by now. I have ensured that the cameras are all working again, recording every facet of Centre activities. The more I get involved, the less I seem to care about my safety. If anyone finds out about this, we are all going to regret it. A T-board will seem like a picnic.
Sydney just told me that Jarod fears Miss P. might be missing. I am to find out all I can about her whereabouts and about a possible Centre surveillance team following her. I fear that Lyle might be involved. His files did reveal a plan to assassinate her. But that is not set until after the Yakuza exchange. I think. It's not like Lyle to change plans in midstream, but then again, he's a psycho.
I'm having a hard time focusing, though. I was disappointed to find her gone this morning when I woke up. Not even a note. I guess I was foolish to hope for anything more, but I wanted to wake up with someone in my arms. It's a nice feeling. It reminds me that I am alive; that I am a human being; that I have something to offer and that I can feel the warmth of another body next to mine. It's been so long, I fear that I don't remember what it's like.
Part of me wants to find her right now and to talk about what happened. Yet, I know it would not be a good idea. She probably doesn't want to talk about it. Maybe she has erased it from her mind. However, there were times last night that I was sure she felt what I felt. Perhaps I should approach her. I owe it to myself.
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Jesuit Guest Quarters
Italy, RomeThe cell phone's ringing alerts me. I have been pacing every since Julia hung up on me. Millions of possible scenarios running in my head. Where can she be? I know Julia knows about her already. I feel as if my heart's accelerated beating is going to cause it to burst inside my chest.
I reach the phone, "Yes?" I am almost tempted to say, "What!" since I can't stop thinking about her. I don't think whoever is calling would appreciate it.
"Father Jarod? It's Julia. She's fine. I wish I could say the same thing about my brother's face. He has a stiletto-caused wound...."
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Mr. Lyle's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, Delaware"Susan? We have a go from this end. The exchange will go as planned. We need you to be there early to ensure no one suspects anything."
"All right. All's set here too. Bye."
I hate receiving calls like this at Lyle's office. What if he walks in? I am using my cell phone, but I am still hesitant. I guess some guys at ATF are already celebrating the successful completion of our mission. The opportunity of arresting some prominent Yakuza members in an illegal weapons exchange is enough to cause some Agents to dream of a healthy promotion. Plus I know they think this is a better case than working against some American militia group. It's more clear cut who the bad guys are. Well, some.
The Yakuza are certainly the bad ones here. But the Centre? An American company that sells weapons technology? And who knows what else. But they not only sell to the Yakuza, they also have dealings with the US Government. All attempts at finding more about the Centre through the bureau have come up with "restricted access" warnings. There is more to this. But no one is telling me about it.
I do know Mr. Parker is the one that approached ATF with this deal. He wanted to offer the Yakuza to us. But I think he's true motive is to take Lyle out. And that certainly disturbs me.
He knows it too. His last words were a warning. I am not to think about the implications of his offer to cooperate. Although he's not really cooperating. He's letting us do his dirty work for him. Getting rid of Lyle in a way that can't be easily traced back to him nor the Centre.
Mr. Parker hasn't even told us what Lyle is to exchange. I know it has to do with this Pretender project, but no one is really saying much about it.
Broots knows what is going on with this Pretender deal. I can tell. But I have a feeling he won't tell me. I need to think about all this.
Why do we all choose to keep such painful secrets?
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Mr. Lyle's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareI've startled her. I guess she wasn't expecting me to come into Lyle's office today, especially after last night.
"Broots, I'm sorry I wasn't expecting anyone." She was laying on the couch by the door. Was she asleep? She seemed concentrating on something. I briefly notice there are a lot of papers in an Asian language on the couch next to where she was. Files about the exchange no doubt. She's standing by the door, blocking my way to Lyle's desk.
How much do I tell her about Miss P. being missing? I don't trust her to have the same interests. Our tenuous alliance is about to collapse after this weekend. And I have done my best to keep her out of the loop about some of Lyle's plans. Yet, I have a feeling she might have circumvented my efforts. But that doesn't mean I should trust her.
"So, what did you want?" She says brusquely and then winces. I guess she wants to take that back. What else does she want to retract? I wonder.
"I wanted to check something in Lyle's files."
"What?" She asks very suspiciously, as usual she squints her eyes in a semi-seductive way. Part of me is annoyed, part of me wants to kiss her hard.
"I want to double check some figures." She knows I'm lying. And she knows that I know that she knows. But she just steps to the side and allows me to pass. This game of appearances is a bit too much.
As I pass by her, however, she grabs my arm and pulls me to her. In seconds, I feel her mouth kissing mine. This is once again out of hand. But unable to stop myself, I kiss her back.
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Mr. Parker's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, Delaware"Mr. Parker?"
"Yes?"
"This is Hopkins from the Centre European Office. We haven't found her yet, but we came across some interesting information. Someone arranged a meeting at the Credit Nationale de Geneva to view a safety deposit box registered to you and your late wife. That person said he was your son."
"Lyle?"
"Not confirmed. The meeting is for next Monday."
"Credit Nationale de Geneva... I want you to deploy a full team to Geneva. Whoever goes to open the box must not do so. I want you to use whatever force is necessary."
I hang up. Credit Nationale de Geneva... It can't be. I should have never allowed Catherine access to the Pretender files. She must have put them in that box, knowing that I would never think to check my own safety box. That is why I never found them. I always hoped she had destroyed them. Catherine, Catherine. Why didn't you trust me? If you had done what I asked, you would still be alive today.
No one should view those files. They must be destroyed as soon as possible.
"Marion? Get me a plane reservation for Geneva. I want to leave on Sunday night. Also, tell Raines to meet me in Lyle's office, now."
I need to find out if Lyle is the one going to see the box. If it is, it might still be contained. I know he won't be able to travel to Europe after the exchange on Sunday. He'll have other matters to worry about.
What really concerns me is Jarod. If he is involved, he will have to be disposed of. I know members of the Triumvirate want to bring him back alive, but that might no longer be an option. However, it's still too early to involve the Triumvirate. I have to ensure they don't ever know about the papers in this safety deposit box.
I didn't become Director by being the honest or trusting type. Yet, perhaps I should turn to someone for help. The only person I can entrust to follow my orders without question.
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Mr. Lyle's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareI have never made out at work, least of all in Lyle's office and with his supposed wife, no less. There is an exciting fear danger, of course. We have kept our clothes on, fortunately. Especially since I am beginning to hear footsteps down the hall. We both freeze up and look at each other. There is only one place to hide.
Desk here we come, again.
The Centre has a way of trapping us in predictable behavior. I should indeed write that informational pamphlet about the nooks and crannies of the Centre. Maybe co-author it with Angelo.
The voices are nearing Lyle's door and we both hear it open abruptly. Fortunately the lights were dimmed. We hold each other closely under the desk, more out of lust than safety. This is certainly a turn of events from last time! There isn't a gun in anyone's pocket, we are just happy to see each other.
I hear a distinct metallic sound on the carpet. It can only be one person. But he is not alone.
"Mr. Parker, are you sure of this?"
"Of course. I want your men to search his office for any clues as to what he intends to do about my daughter. Any European ties should be explored. Search his apartment too. He has gone to far. I thought he would be contained until the exchange, but my daughter's disappearance in Italy is too coincidental. I need to make sure he hasn't done anything stupid. We still need her."
"Miss Parker can't be controlled either, Mr. Parker. And I disagree in your assessment that we need her. I reported as much to the Triumvirate. I am not sure if the Centre's interests are foremost in your mind."
"Raines, don't you ever question my motives. Centre's interests are always my first priority. My past actions prove that."
"But Miss Parker has outlived her usefulness. Her search for Jarod has been futile. As for my other project, I don't think we need her anymore. And she is not needed in the Pretender project either. Your wife's refusal to allow us to train her has left us with an overgrown could-have-been."
"We agreed that some of Catherine's wishes were to be respected, Raines. You were there yourself. And it's not my fault that your grooming of Lyle failed miserably. You are the one that made him this way. Actually, all your projects have a high failure rate. Lyle, Kyle, Angelo. You have had the opportunity to work with some of our best material and you have wasted it."
"Mr. Parker, my research has produced some of our most profitable research."
"Yes, but at what cost?"
"You are the one that decided Lyle's loyalties needed to be tested. It's not my fault you designed a trap he couldn't get out of."
"It's a test my daughter will pass, Raines. She, unlike your creation, is loyal to me. And to the Centre."
"That is to be seen, Mr. Parker."
"She will come through. She already has, and she will again."
"Your confidence in her is excessive."
"And your distrust is offensive... But, back to the matter at hand, have your sweepers search Lyle's possessions. Leave no stone unturned. Also, find where he is right now and what he has done while away. You might also want to get a decoder working on the files Chang did not get a chance to examine. The ones in the Centre mainframe. I recommend using Angelo, or even better, Broots."
"Broots can't be easily controlled, Mr. Parker."
"Yes, but he is one hundred percent loyal to my daughter, Raines. Can you say that about any of your employees? And unlike Angelo, is better able to express himself."
"I'll have my men begin in this office as soon as they are briefed."
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Bianci family state
Lazio, Italy"... And I need a new pair of shoes," I instruct the henchman assigned to make my visit more enjoyable. Yeah right. They ruined my outfit. They ruined by shoes. They ruined my day. Not to mention my hair. But Signore Bianco, as in THE Signore Bianco, is very apologetic about the whole incident and he wants to make it up to me.
I think I was more comfortable when I was kidnapped. Now that I have to enjoy all this exaggerated Italian hospitality, I feel like ripping someone's eyes out. But I already tried that.
Before I know it, I will be forced to press grapes in the spring festival alongside Signore Bianco's daughter. The henchman writes all my requests down and leaves me alone.
"Signorina Parker," a voice says behind me. I turn around to look into the eyes of Signore Bianco himself. A servant behind him is carrying a couple of drinks. He sits next to me in the patio and offers me some Bianci vineyard wine. I grab the glass and smile at his courteous toast. He replies with a slight smile. I can see where Carlo got his suave moves, but what I don't get is where the idiot son came from.
"Once again, my dear Signorina Parker, I would like to apologize for my son's, actually for both my sons' actions. If Carlo Enrico and myself had understood what had happened, we would have personally broken Vittorio's leg. And we would have certainly not let the situation progress."
One positive thing I can say about all this chauvinism is that it pays off when men cross the line. As soon as I explained to Signore Bianco that this was all a matter of honor (with a melodramatic tone), the whole family clan became overtly apologetic.
Signore Bianco continues, "I am so sorry about the loss of your father's employees." I shrug it off. Those three idiots really had no idea what hit them. Well, the third one was hit by Carlo's thugs, but he'll live. The Bianci clan is taking care of him right now. The other two have been disposed of already. I don't advocate senseless deaths, but what were they doing following me in the first place?
"My father will understand, Signore Bianco. I know we have conducted some business in the past with your family, right?"
"Mostly through our American partners, but now that we have had the pleasure of meeting you, I think we would like to extend our contacts with the Centre."
"That would be a beneficial deal for all of us," I say as I drink more of my delicious wine. I am guessing the vineyard is only to launder money, but they sure make an excellent product.
Part of me is upset at my civility, yet I know I can't anger these people in their midst. So, instead, I play the charming Signorina Parker they expect me to be. More business with the Bianci family will be quite beneficial to all of us.
"Papa," a voice coming from the main house approaches. It's Carlo. His left eye is still showing the mark of my stiletto heal. I didn't think he would need so many stitches. He avoids my eyes. "Your presence is requested in the house."
"Signorina Parker, please excuse me," Signore Bianco says and slightly touches his forehead with his fingers as he stands up to leave. Carlo runs off immediately, almost hiding. I guess his masculinity is seriously compromised since a woman beat him senseless. As they both walk towards the house, I am once again alone in the terrace overlooking the family state.
I glance at the nice silk robe I was provided and the slippers. Not my color, but nice fabric. I guess one could get used to this life. Lovely view, nice wine, soft clothes. A servant staff at your beck and call. How decadent. I smile briefly as I sip more wine.
Then, I think back to last night and how I almost thought I wasn't going to make it. As soon as they dragged me out of the trunk, I kicked Carlo in the face, which proved to be his Achilles heel. The man is so vain! He immediately grabbed his face in his hands and began shrieking like a hurt cat. "My face! My face!" He yelled in Italian. I imagine Lyle would have yelled, "My thumb! My thumb!" in the exact manner after the Yakuza grabbed him. The crybabies.
After that, it was easy to leave Carlo unconscious. I took care of the remaining bodyguard; and since I had already shot the other one earlier, he was also an easy match. (He'll live too). However, never beat up the boss' son in his own house. As soon as I had taken care of business, an armada of thugs showed up. If it hadn't been for my quick thinking, I wouldn't be here.
When surrounded by too many enemies, make a deal.
Once I had figured out what this all was about, I couldn't resist laughing! They had thought I had been sent to murder Signore Bianco's idiot son, Vittorio! The idea was ludicrous, even to Signore Bianco. (Carlo hadn't told him anything about the incident; that's probably the last time that Carlo acts on his own.) No one with half a brain would ever think of killing Vittorio. Well, maybe Brigitte would think killing him would be a profitable idea.
I had to explain, amidst efforts not to laugh too much at the ridiculous nature of this soap opera, how Vittorio had harassed me in my flight coming here and that is why I had ordered my sweepers to beat him. It all became a manner of honor (deep Italian voice) to the Bianci family. Poor Vittorio, well he deserved it; he immediately received a hearty Italian lecture from "Papa." Haven't seen him since. He must be sulking away in his room.
And now the whole Bianci clan is so apologetic, they are threatening to become my best friends. Signore Bianco has offered to help me take care of my family business. I think it's best to do things myself; especially after I have seen how the chain of command breaks down in this operation; all due to the stupidity of the man's sons. I guess even Lyle is a bit more swift. Hey, Angelo has more of a brain than Vittorio.
But I must admit this turned out all right. Maybe I can pack a couple of bottles of wine to take back as a souvenir of my Italian Holiday.
I remind myself, however, that my first priority is to get out of this screening of "The Godfather" and back to Rome.
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Mr. Lyle's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareMay Li and I stayed under the desk for just a few more seconds after Mr. Parker and Mr. Raines left. I will have to process all this information later; time is of the essence. At least it's a bit reassuring to know that Mr. Parker thinks somewhat highly of me. More or less, that is. He sees me as commodity, but he does know I value his daughter's life. At times, I'm not sure if he does. This, however, is not one of those.
I turn to May Li and whisper, "I have to leave before the sweepers get here. We must... talk. Please come to my house tonight." I try to hide some of the desperation in my voice. Too many important things are going on right now, but I have to resolve our situation. How? I have no idea.
Her eyes look into mine and there is a momentary indecision. With a sigh, she nods. "I'll be there as soon as I can get away."
Carefully, I open the door and slip away to search for Sydney.
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Bianci family state
Lazio, ItalyMy cell phone's ringing alerts me to its presence. It had been left accidentally in Carlo's car and just returned to me by one of the sullen servants in this palace. I must have a zillion messages in my voice mail.
"What?" I yell into the receiver.
"Miss Parker! You have no idea what hearing your voice means to me." We are back to business. At least I know how to handle this one.
"I've told you already, Jarod, this is not a sex line." Yet, his voice does things to me... But I would rather swallow acid than let my mouth utter that.
"Can you, for once, be a little less cold and bit more honest about your feelings?" If he continues this line of questioning, I am hanging up again.
"You must have the wrong number, 'Father' Jarod. This is not a confessional. And you are no priest."
"It always amazes me how you can make the holiest of words sound dirty." Oh, my!
"You want me to talk dirty?" That came out accidentally. Too late now. I bite my lip. My heart races at the implication. My breathing becomes agitated and the phone magnifies it. I know he knows what that meant. He might be a lab experiment, but he has managed to learn quite a lot these past three years.
I am relieved to hear him also take shallow breaths, which match mine. The line goes dead for a few seconds.
"There is someone you need to talk to." He recovers quickly, but his voice is slightly husky. Another short breath crawls from the receiver. I have found his Achilles heel, but it's mine as well.
I bit harder on my lip; I must recover my self-control.
"Jarod, I don't have time for your little games. Can't you, for once, just tell me where you are, so I can swing by and grab you? You're wanted at home. I hear your room is still the same way you left it." Being a bitch is always safe territory for me. Just like being an annoying brat is his.
"As exciting as that invitation sounds, I will have to pass." I can almost feel his smile through the phone. He's back to his usual self. It just upsets me more. And he knows it too. While I get all exasperated and can't recover quickly, he is up to his usual tricks.
"You don't have that option, Boy Wonder. Nor any others, for that matter." I bite back.
"I don't have time to argue with you right now. So, if you want to know more about your mother, you will come to the Gesu Church in Rome today at 3 pm. Someone will meet you there. Take it or leave it, Parker."
"How do I know this is not one of your tricks? I am not letting you ruin my shoes again!" Especially since these will be my brand new Italian shoes, courtesy of the Bianci family.
"When have I lied to you about your mother?" He's right. He's got me there.
It's the only thing he holds above me. The only thing.
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Sydney's office
The Centre
Blue Cove, Delaware"So Mr. Parker is worried Lyle might harm Miss Parker?" Sydney's habit of stating the obvious is a bit too much for me right now. But, I just nod.
He's about to say more, but his phone rings.
"This is Sydney." He utters to the receiver. A momentary pause and he suddenly smiles. He puts the phone down and says to me, "She's fine. Jarod just called."
I let out a sharp breath and smile broadly. She will probably kick me in the gut if she saw me, but she's not here. Hopefully she'll be back soon.
"Did he say anything about where she is? When she's coming back?" I ask Sydney.
"No, he said he was in a hurry and would call soon. He just wanted us to know she was fine."
"That's good news. But, Sydney, we should alert her of Lyle's plan. As well as update her about our activities here."
"Why don't you call her, Broots." Sydney says, and it's not a request.
"But what if she kills the messenger?"
"She's in Europe, Broots."
Before I can answer, Mr. Raines walks in. More like, he rolls in.
"What do you want, Raines?" Sydney mutters harshly.
"Mr. Parker wants Broots' help with some files." This is not a request either.
"Me-ee?" I say. I have to make it look real, and as if I have no clue what is going on.
"Yes, follow me. I'll take you to SL-15." No one says please or thank you around here.
"The Centre Mainframe?" I get this nerdy, salivating look on my face. Like a kid that was just told he can play with the new, expensive toy. Mr. Raines just rolls his eyes. After all these years at the Centre, I have learnt that playing the fool is the only way to survive. No one gives me a second look because they think I am just a computer geek. What they don't know is that I'm Broots, James Broots. Secret Agent.
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Highway
Lazio, ItalyI am finally away from the Bianci family. And not a moment too soon! I am never flying in a plane again if I have to sit next to someone I don't know. And I am certainly not picking up guys in expensive Italian suits at car rental offices.
Speaking of cars, at least they got me another one. A big one. I think Signore Bianco really liked me. He's a recent widower, after all. Italian men are not known for a commitment to celibacy. But unlike his son, he did not put a hand on me. And he certainly understood why I wanted to leave alone. He also promised not to tell the sweeper I had left until I was well gone. I can't believe the Centre was trailing me. At least Carlo and Vittorio's stupidity did some good. I don't have a tail right now.
I need to call Daddy and find out why they were following me. I can't believe he would have anything to do with this. Unless, of course, he was worried about me. Our last meeting was very emotional. I don't even know why I said all those things. I guess I was afraid. I have always been afraid of Daddy not loving me. He's all I have.
What am I doing here? Driving to meet this person Jarod knows? It all seemed like a good idea at the time, but is it? I feel as if I have no control over my actions anymore. Crazy instincts have taken over. I have to stop to think. I've forgotten my priorities. I have confused them; that is more like it, I tell myself.
I need to bring Jarod in. I have tried to in the past, but I have failed. I can't fail now. But part of me knows that if I am to find out about my mother, I need him. I need him to throw those insensitive morsels of information. It's like he's taunting a hungry dog with food; and I am that dog.
He loves to torture me with his calls. He offers me information to get me to do as he pleases. But it has to stop. I can't go on like this.
I have to make a choice.
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Lyle's apartment
Blue Cove, DelawareThe sweepers have finished searching all of Lyle's apartment. They did not inform me as to why. I just played dumb. I don't think they found anything of interest here.
Something bothers me about Mr. Parker's conversation with Raines. He wasn't concerned before when I spoke to him about Lyle. What happened after our meeting? I know he was not being totally honest with Raines as to what he was expecting to find. I wish I had access to those Centre Mainframe files. Somehow, though, that has more to do with personal curiosity than professional concern.
"Honey, I'm home." A voice says behind me. I turn to find Lyle himself in the door frame. He's back. I know this is a good thing, but he is the last person I want to see right now.
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Gesu Church
Rome, Italy"Miss Parker?" A woman wearing a modern-day nun habit approaches me as I near the church. She is a bit older than I and clearly an American. Probably a friend of Jarod's. Great, he sends the flying nun to help. So like him.
"Yes." I answer coldly and stop in front of her. She's leaning on one of those horrible Italian contraptions they call cars.
"I knew it was you. You look just like her! I'm Sister Mary Joseph of the..."
"Carmelite Order," I finish for her. It's not only a nun, it's also the one that kept on interfering negotiations yesterday. I almost got shot because of her! And whom did she say I look like? She couldn't have known my mother, could she?
"Look Sister, I don't care who you are or who are you with, just tell me where he is and all will be fine, okay? You don't want to test my temper right now."
"Jarod won't be joining us today. You have an appointment with someone else."
"Who?" I don't like this one bit. And I don't like her one bit, either. Is it a sin to shoot an annoying nun?
"A friend of your mother from St. Catherine of the Hills Convent in the United States. She has valuable information about your parents."
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Centre Mainframe Tech Room
SL-15
The Centre
Blue Cove, DelawareThis is every computer geek's dream. The Centre Mainframe is a collection of some of the world's most powerful computers and computer technology. We could run the whole Eastern Seaboard from this room if we had to. Sometimes I think Mr. Raines would like to.
After following the Wheezing devil down here, I was briefly met by Mr. Parker. He pulled me to the side and told me that he feared Lyle was up to some "rogue activities" in Europe. He wanted me to find out if Lyle planned to be in Switzerland soon and what he knew about a safety deposit box and some private bank accounts at the Credit Nationale de Geneva. He also reminded me that if I breathed a word of this to anyone, I would be terminated. No questions asked. I summoned enough courage to ask him why he wanted me to do this and he whispered, "My daughter's life depends on it." We exchanged a look and it was settled. He knows I would do anything to help Miss Parker. She's my closest friend around here.
Now, several hours have passed and I haven't found anything of use in the Mainframe files linking Lyle to the Credit Nationale de Geneva or any trips to Europe. But, while the other techs were occupied with their assignments, I have had time to do some investigating of my own. The authorization code that Lyle had been using to divert money and steal sims is none other than Mr. Parker's. All roads point to him.
But, it gets better. The code is not Mr. Parker's authorization code. No, it's a dummy code. It's been set up to track down whoever uses it. It's a trap. All transactions have been recorded in the Mainframe and copies have been sent to Mr. Parker's office and to the Tower Mainframe. They know what he is up to. Judging from what happened last time, I think Mr. Lyle is going to have to answer to the top levels of the Centre hierarchy. And I don't think "Daddy" is coming to the rescue this time.
There is something else that bothers me, though. Something that I haven't figured out. Mr. Parker mentioned a "Chang" in his conversation with Raines in Lyle's office. And this Chang person had been used to track Lyle's files, the ones not in the Mainframe. Deductive reasoning tells me that Chang is none other than May Li.
She's working for Mr. Parker. But what is she up to?
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Convento di Santa Maria
Orvieto, ItalyThis whole trip has been one giant mistake followed by another. While we drove (in my car, of course) to this forsaken place in the Italian interior, I was convinced I needed to choke this nun. She was so perky, I though she would burst into song. "The hills are alive with the sound of music," or something like that.
Then she started to ask me all these questions about Jarod and me. This woman thinks this is a Father Dowling Mystery! I had to make it clear to her that I was not interested in her conversation. She got all puffy and high and mighty. Deal with it, Sister.
And now, I am awaiting this Sister Maria Teresa, my mother's friend. The woman that I am named after. I see her approach me. She's elderly and her walk is tired. Sister Act told me that she isn't expected to live much longer. Another nun is helping her reach my spot by the garden. I guess the old nun likes to sit here and watch the world live while she dies.
Sister Maria Teresa is looking at the ground, afraid of slipping in these cobblestones, I suppose. This old convent must be a death trap for old ladies. Suddenly, she looks up at me. First, as she is focusing her gaze, I only see confusion. Then, once she has given me a good look, her face lights up. She almost turns into another person, a younger person. Even her walk improves. She reaches me in seconds, pulling on the other nun.
"Marisa!" she yells, "I finally get to meet you! You look just like her. I have so much to tell you."
The frail lady embraces me and I am surprised by how much strength she possesses in her body. Suddenly, I am afraid of what this woman might tell me. I don't know why, but I am scared.
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Broots' home
Blue Cove, DelawareI finally reach home. Nothing interesting turned up at the Centre Mainframe after my initial findings. I told Mr. Parker that there was no information connecting Lyle to the bank in Switzerland. He seemed disappointed and worried. But he wasn't disappointed in me. No, he wanted the information to exist. He wanted Lyle to be involved in this, what ever this is. As usual, he waved a hand and dismissed me. Not even a thank you.
Debbie, fortunately, had a school camping trip this weekend, so she won't be back until Monday morning. This is perfect timing for my meeting with May Li tonight, and then my absence on Sunday night to attend this exchange. I hope I get to spend time with my daughter after all this clears. This morning at breakfast, she was complaining about how much work I have been doing lately.
As I approach the porch in the moonlight, I see May Li standing by the door. She beat me here.
"Hi," she says and smiles. Unwillingly, I reciprocate. She moves to the side so I can open the door, but chooses to stand very close to me.
After a momentary pause to try to regulate my breathing, I open the door and we both enter the house.
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Convento di Santa Maria
Orvieto, Italy"No!" I whisper to Sister Maria Teresa, "It's not true. It's not true."
Her bony fingers touch my cheek. A tear escapes my eyes and she wipes it off. "I'm sorry, Marisa. It is true. That is one of the reasons why Mr. Parker and I never got along. It's also why I never got to meet you. Please understand, I am a Catholic nun. I couldn't allow your father to convince your mother to agree to that! If they couldn't have their own children, they should have adopted them. His alternative was so wrong. Now, I guess, many do it, but I can't believe the Lord would have approved of that method."
"No, no, no, no. He's my father! He's my father!" I cry into her arms. This old and frail woman, a foot shorter than I am, is holding me while I fall apart. She has just told me that my father couldn't have children, so he asked my mother to be impregnated by someone else. Daddy is not my biological father. Is that why he doesn't really love me?
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Broots' home
Blue Cove, DelawareI intended for us to talk first, but things did not work out that way. Now, we are lying in my bed. She's snuggled against my chest and I have my arms around her. I carefully rub her arms slowly and hear her moan in pleasure. Part of me wants to withhold all intellectual thought, but I know I can't do that. I have to get to the bottom of this. Even if it means not realizing my desire of waking up with someone next to me.
"Who are you really?" I ask her. Immediately I feel her tense up in my arms. Her body holds a breath tightly. Slowly, she untangles herself from me and turns to face me. Her eyes are as dark as the night. And her raven hair covers part of her face. On an impulse, I reach out to move it away and feel her rest her cheek against it. She turns her face away from my eyes and her lips connect with my palm.
Her sweet kiss makes my body want to respond with more love making, but I can't. "Please answer my question..." I murmur with desperation.
She once again tries to move her eyes away from mine, but I stop her with my hand. "We can't dance around the truth. I want to trust you, but you have to tell me the truth. I can't follow you blindly."
She finally raises her eyes to meet mine and says, "My real name is Susan Chang and I am working for Mr. Parker. He sent me to track Lyle's activities and to arrange this exchange with the Yakuza. That's all I can tell you now. I'm sorry."
I was right. She is Chang. But what are her loyalties? Certainly Mr. Parker does not think too highly of his son right now. Is she part of a trap? Before I can say anything else, she says again, "I'm sorry. There is more, but you will have to wait until after the exchange. I want to tell you, but I can't."
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Miss Parker's new hotel room
Rome, Italy"What? What do you want from me? Haven't you done enough?" I answer the phone quivering.
"Angel?"
"Daddy?"
"Yes, it's me, Angel. Who did you think it was?" That's the question indeed. Who did I think you were, Daddy.
"No one important, Daddy," I say trying to sound all right. But I am not all right. I am as far from all right as I can possibly be.
"I'm glad I caught you. I have been leaving messages for you all day, Angel. You had me worried." He sounds concerned, but I don't know if it's wishful thinking or not.
"Sorry, Daddy. I was tied up. I haven't had time to check my messages."
"Where are you? You didn't come back to your hotel in Rome."
"I changed accommodations. How did you know where I was staying originally?"
"Angel, I don't have time right now to tell you, you have to trust me." Why is it that everyone wants me to trust them? None of them trust me, so why should I reciprocate?
"Yes, Daddy?" I know I should confront him. Ask him if it's true. Ask him what is going on. What happened to my mother.
But I can't. He might not be my biological father, but he is all I have.
"I need you to meet me in Switzerland on Monday. Someone is trying to steal from me. I need you to take care of it, Angel. Wouldn't want your father to be robbed, right?"
Take care of it. I know what he means. He hasn't made me a killer yet, but he sure keeps on trying.
"Where should I meet you, Daddy?"
"Geneva. At the Contrin Airport. My flight arrives at 10 am. It's Swissair flight number 4568, from New York. See you then, Angel." He hangs up.
I will do as he says. He's all I have. I close my eyes and prepare mentally for my fate.
Then, the phone rings again. Now what?
"Forget something?" I say into the receiver. Yes, like, I love you, Angel? Thank you for helping me out? Something like that.
"I can never forget you," Jarod's voice answers me. He's the perfect ending for the perfect day.
"Ratboy, I should have known it was you. How can I help you ruin my life?"
"Parker, I know that you are in shock right now. I wished I could have been there with you, but I had to take care of some business."
"You wanted to be there? So that you could watch me fall apart? Sister Act didn't give you the play by play?"
"No, no. Stop this. Marisa, you know how I feel about you. Please, let me be there for you."
"Can't you just leave me alone? I don't need you. I never had and I never will."
"But I need you."
"Stop. Just let me be. Leave me alone." Please.
"I can't. I won't. You don't want that. Can't I make you see that? Meet me at Santa Maria in Cosmedin Church tomorrow morning at 10; there is more I need to tell you. Please, trust me; and remember I love you."
He hangs up. What is it with him and churches?
I entertain the idea of standing him up. But, I know I can't. Perhaps if I bring him to meet Daddy at the airport in Geneva on Monday, the nightmare can end. Daddy can finally be proud of me. And I can be free.
Free to run away.
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end of part 14
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