Chapters 1-5           Chapters 6-10             Chapters 11-15           Chapters 16-20            Chapters 21-25 Title: Keep One Eye on the Road Chapter 16 Rabb Flat 2030 “I can’t believe all these years you led me to believe you couldn’t cook.” Harm wiped his mouth, then tossed the napkin on the table. “I never said I couldn’t cook. You just always offered. Besides, it’s no fun cooking for one. If I made a pot roast, I’d wind up taking it to work for lunch all week.” Mac scrunched her nose unpleasantly. “Well, if I ever get a full staff, maybe I can sneak away early enough to do some of the cooking.” “Fat chance,” Mac laughed out loud. “Even with a full staff, there’s no way the Force Judge Advocate is going to secure early to go home and cook dinner!” “Kill joy.” Harm helped Mac clear the table.  “What time did Mattie say she’d be home?” “Around nine, but I don’t know if they were eating in or going out for dinner, so it could be closer to ten.” Mac loaded the dishwasher while Harm finished cleaning off the table. “So what’s on the itinerary tonight?” He called over his shoulder. “I’m excited about the signet ring thing today, but I need to find Marjorie. I have to make a connection between her and the Habershams.” “And how do you plan on doing that?” “For now I’m going to see if there’s anything in that stack of history Baskin left me that might give me a clue.  If not, I may have to ask Baskin for a list of employees from Habersham Plastics, and for the estate staff.” “Only one estate? You’d think they would have a summer place, a winter place, maybe a place in Scotland. You know, like the Queen,” Harm teased. “Oh. I hadn’t thought of that,” Mac frowned, straightening up from the dishwasher. “Not to worry, I’ll help you sift through that stuff again.” “Not to worry?  When did you go all English on me?” “It’s that royal marine who’s been assigned to our office this week. All I ever hear him say is, ‘Not to worry, sir. I’ll take care of it.’  I’m not even sure half the time what it is I’m not supposed to worry over,” Harm chuckled. “Well, if it helps any, you sound awfully cute when you go English.” Walking into the living room, towards her briefcase, Mac paused to give Harm a quick kiss on the cheek. “Just cute?” he called after. “Okay, adorable, too,” she giggled quietly. “Adorable, huh?” Harm walked up behind Mac and slipped his arms around her waist. “What do you say we work on the twins there for a while, and then you can show me just how adorable I really am.” Just in case his intentions weren’t clear, Harm began nibbling softly on her neck. “Work first, play later.” Mac shoved a smaller file at Harm. “But, we can read all this stuff in bed if you like?” “Works for me.” Patting her lightly on her six, Harm accepted the folder she’d given him and followed her towards the bedroom. “You know?” Harm dropped the file on the nightstand and toed off his shoes. “Yes?” Mac stepped into the bathroom to brush her teeth. “Shouldn’t we be spending more time...I mean now that you’re... well, better...” Harm turned to see Mac standing in the doorway, her toothbrush hanging out of her mouth, and an odd look on her face. “You look cute foaming at the mouth,” Harm grinned. Rolling her eyes as she turned to go spit in the sink, Mac came back a few seconds later. “What are you ‘not’ talking about?” Mac tossed her nightgown on the bed and began undoing the buttons on her blouse. Harm pulled the covers back from his side of the bed, and sat down heavily. “I’m wondering if we shouldn’t spend more time ... you know...trying for that baby we both want.” Mac stared at him, unsure of the odd sensation rising through her. She didn’t know if she was hurt, angry, or felt like laughing in his face. The latter appeared to be winning. Still dressed in her slacks and only a bra, she stepped over to her side of the bed, pulled back the covers, and sat down. “How much more trying do you want to do?” Mac’s one eyebrow rose up. “I mean, we’ve made love almost every night since Dr. Rovner gave us the okay.” “I know. I mean, aren’t we supposed to be paying attention to times and things, you know, when it’s more likely?” Harm did one of those raise and drop his brow things, as he’d done so often since asking her if she believed in fate when he proposed. “We will.  I haven’t had my first regular cycle yet since surgery. Once I do, we’ll be able to keep tabs on when I’m ovulating.” Raising one eyebrow with an odd twinkle in her eye, “Why, planning on christening the Force JAG’s desk?” Getting up to get changed, “ Maybe...” he shot back at her. Clachan Pub Kingsley St Same time “You said ‘even if they were trying’, does that mean you have sisters who weren’t trying to get pregnant?” Beth looked down at her plate, picked up her fork and began playing with the empty shells. “Yes. Two actually. My sister Luz Marina had only been married a few months. She and her husband were starting their own business. They hadn’t planned to have children for a couple of years.” “But they did?” Beth continued looking at her plate. “Yes. Luz was numb for the first couple of weeks. Then the idea started to grow on her.  Eventually, she got excited about the future instead of focusing on how it changed all their plans.  She has four kids now,” Gunny chuckled. “And the other sister?” Beth glanced up at him for only a fraction of a moment. “That was my kid sister Valerie. She liked to party. Had bad taste in men.” Gunny picked up his fork and began pushing the empty shells around his plate. Beth saw the movement on his dish and looked up at him again. He looked as lost as she sometimes felt. “About two years ago I was home on 30 days leave at the same time she came home from school.  She was in her last year of college at the University of New Mexico.  I caught her sitting on the bedroom floor, in the corner, with her knees up to her chest, her arms wrapped around herself, just rocking quietly.” He looked up and saw Beth staring at him intently. “She was terrified. Terrified to tell my mom, terrified about being a mother, terrified about not being a mother.” “What about the father?” “Well, she finally admitted she wasn’t sure who the father was.” Gunny scratched his head, this wasn’t easy for him. “She’d been dating one guy for a while, but she got involved with another before completely breaking up with the first guy. By the time she found out she was pregnant, she wasn’t dating either.” “That must have been tough?” Beth finally stopped playing with the fork. “It was, but we convinced her we were all there for her. That we didn’t care she wasn’t married, and that we’d help.  She moved back in with my mom, and the whole family helps out with daycare.” “And the father?” “Thank God it turned out to be the nicer of the two. We had Jorge’s DNA tested when he was born. Brad turned out to be the dad, and even though Valerie and he were no longer dating, they at least had stayed friends. He helps out financially with whatever he can, and more importantly he comes and visits and participates in Jorge’s life. He doesn’t take the kid away for weekends or anything like that. They both agree he’s too young to understand that, but when he’s older and ready to spend time with his dad, Brad will be there.” “Yeah, that’s the difference.” Beth looked down at her plate again, relieved when the waitress appeared seemingly out of nowhere with her fish and chips.  No matter how torn she felt, she could always count on being hungry. “So, I’m right?” Beth nodded her head yes. “You look great,” Gunny smiled, trying to cheer her up. “Thanks,” she almost smiled. “How’s the fish?” he countered. Beth burst out in a fit of giggles.  Not quite the reaction Gunny had expected, but he much preferred it to some alternate possibilities. “We don’t have to talk about this, as long as you know you’ve got a friend when you need one,” Gunny reassured her. “Thanks,” Beth looked up, her laughter under control. “The fish is pretty good. I don’t think there’s such a thing as bad fish and chips in England. How’s yours?” “Always good, that’s why I like it here.” Chapter 17 Next day – Friday London Headquarters Mac’s temporary offices 0930 “It looks to me, ma’am, like we don’t have any other choice than to go to Baskin.” Mac tossed her pen on the desk. “I think you’re right. He did bring us the file in the first place. Scotland Yard has to have more on these people than what he gave me.” “Even if they don’t, they have the means to access the information we need.” “Agreed.” Mac picked up the handset without delay. Pulling a sheet of paper out of a folder to her right, she quickly dialed the number scribbled across the top. “Inspector Baskin please.” Mac signaled for Gunny to wait. “Yes, Inspector. This is Sarah Rabb calling.” “This is unexpected, Mrs. Rabb. Is your client ready to tell us where he has hidden the letters.” There was something odd in his tone of voice. “Not yet,” she hesitated.  “I thought perhaps we could meet and discuss his options. What he would need from you to tell us the truth.” Mac hoped he understood what she was fishing for.  She’d had enough experience with spooks to recognize when someone was telling her they weren’t on a secure line. “I see. I suppose I could squeeze you in. Would half an hour be doable for you?” “Yes, that would be fine. Could we possibly meet here?” “Yes. I’m on way to another appointment. You’re half way there.” “Excellent. See you soon.” Gunny watched Mac hang up the phone and stare at the handset. He waited silently for her to remember he was there. “If I didn’t know better, I’d swear I was dealing with MI6 and not Scotland Yard.” Mac looked over where Gunny was sitting. “It sounded like it, ma’am.” “We’ve got half an hour before he gets here. Let’s go over exactly what we’ve got. Put all the pieces together one more time.” Mac opened multiple files on her desk. Forty minutes later, Mac was feeling the need for a cup of coffee, real coffee, when Baskin tapped on her door. “The Petty Officer said you were expecting me,” he smiled at her. Mac was momentarily caught off guard by Baskin’s smile.  Surely she must have seen him smile at some point or other in the times they’d worked together, but not like this. “Did I catch you at a bad time? You said it was important.” “No, perfect timing. I was just going to get some coffee. Could I offer you some tea?” Mac tried to hide how flabbergasted she was. Baskin was being polite, and almost charming. No sign of the always gruff and cocky policeman she’d previously sparred with. “I don’t have time, I’m afraid.” “No problem. I’ll get the coffee later. Here’s where we are. We’ve located the missing guard.” Mac put several enhanced photographs on the table for Baskin to see. “You can have your labs check it out later, but he’s the accomplice. As you can see from those two photos there,” Mac pointed to two distinct photos from before the coat was removed. “He appears to have had something in his hand here, and not here. We believe he’s the one who dropped the smelly gas canister while his accomplice injected the case with whatever caused it to smoke.” Baskin looked at all the photos several times without looking up. “Here, you’ll notice he’s taking off his peacoat,” Mac continued. Baskin looked at the newest photo. “And here you have your mysterious extra guard.” Not waiting for a response, “But the real prize is this photo here.  This is the signet ring for the Viscount of Helmsley.” Baskin’s eyes grew wide as he held the photo closer to the window for light.  Turning to Mac, “Are you sure?” “Positive. I’ve had an expert verify it, and he’s willing to testify in court.  We’ve also got something not so significant, unless we can connect it to young Oliver.” “I presume, this is where I come in?” Mac gestured for Gunny to continue with the explanation. “I combed the textile district in search of something connecting our imposter guard with the purchase of the museum badges.  I spoke with a gentleman who remembers an unusual sale not too long ago.  The man refused to give his name, insisted the badges be wrapped and not visible, and would only give the name of the assistant picking up the purchase. Marjorie.” “Marjorie?” Baskin repeated, stunned with the amount of information these two had managed to accumulate. He had been surprised at the skill Captain and Mrs. Rabb had displayed on their last case. At the time, he actually chalked it up to dumb luck. Now, he was having second thoughts about jumping to a hasty conclusion. “We need you to give us a list of all of the Habersham’s employees. Both business and household.” “That probably won’t be necessary.” Baskin turned, semi-stunned, towards Mac then back to Gunny. “Did you get a description of this woman?” “Around forty years old, average build and height, not unattractive, dark hair with a graying streak to one side.” “You do realize you’ve done what Scotland Yard has been trying to do for almost ten years.” Mac and Gunny looked at each other. “Who is Marjorie?” Mac asked carefully. “The Habersham nanny.” “Nanny?” Gunny and Mac echoed. “She’s been with the family since the boys were infants. When the family finally decided the boys were too old for nannies, she was promoted to governess, and from there to head housekeeper. She’s forty-nine, and fits your description to a T.  Marjorie Spencer.” “Can you get us some photographs?” Mac finally asked. “I’ll have them here for you this afternoon.” “If the shopkeeper confirms it was Marjorie Spencer, I’ve got enough circumstantial evidence to get my client an acquittal, but I want more. Is this enough for Scotland Yard to drop the charges?” “No. As you said, this is circumstantial. It’s an old and well respected family.” Baskin didn’t have to say anything more. Everyone in the room understood. “Then we’ll keep at it.” Mac looked at Baskin, then Gunny. “We’ll start with the photo.” Harm was approaching his wife’s office when he spotted Baskin leaving, making his way towards the elevators. “More goodies?” Harm asked before noticing the Gunny. “He knows who Marjorie is?” Mac sat down heavily in her chair. “If you don’t need me anymore, ma’am?” Gunny had several things he wanted to work through, and he didn’t like feeling like a fifth wheel.  What Beth had said last night was true. Even at the office, when both were behaving with the utmost professionalism, you could still feel the love permeating the room. Anyone couldn’t help but feel like an intruder. “Wait, Gunny. I have a few more things I want to go over.” “I guess that means I’m not going to be able to steal you away for an early lunch? And who is Marjorie?” “Yes, I’d love an early lunch, as soon as Gunny and I come up with our next step, and Marjorie is the head housekeeper. She’s worked for the family since the boys were infants.” “Then Scotland Yard is dropping the charges?” “No. The only way that’s going to happen is if we can build a more solid case against these two.” “So we’re doing Baskin’s job for him again?” Harm threw out bitterly. “I don’t think it’s him this time. This seems to be the status quo for Scotland Yard. You don’t go after nobility unless you have all your ducks in a row.” Mac looked at Gunny. “Where do you see us going next?” “To be honest, ma’am. The only way Scotland Yard is going to do anything is if we catch the two red-handed. I’m thinking a good old fashioned sting.” “Sting?” Harm looked at Gunny. “If you prefer, sir, black op.” “Do you have something in mind?” Mac’s curiosity was up. She knew from experience Gunny did undercover work well. “Not completely, but the boys have two weaknesses. Impossible crimes and beautiful women.” Gunny gave Mac the closest thing to a lecherous glare he dared. “You’re not suggesting we use Mac as bait?!” Harm exclaimed. “No, sir. Just pointing out the obvious.” Turning to Mac, Harm could tell by the set of her jaw, she agreed with Gunny. Damn marines. “Harm, it’s not like I haven’t been bait before. It probably won’t be any harder than you, me, two retired seals, and a couple of Colombian drug lords on the docks of Miami. Chapter 18 Maroush Restaurant Edgemere Short time later “I don’t like it, Mac.  Look what happened the last time you did anything undercover?” Harm was trying not to raise his voice. “You can’t possibly compare the two. First of all, there’s no Clayton Webb involved. You know for a fact Gunny is an excellent back up, and obviously we won’t do anything we don’t all think will work.”  Mac took a bite of those meatballs she loved so much. “I just think if anyone is going to be parading you on their arm it should be me.” Harm stabbed at his food, but wasn’t eating much. “We’re not sure anyone is going to be parading anyone. Gunny was merely pointing out that if you’re anywhere within ten feet of me, I become useless as bait.” “I don’t agree.” “Harm, listen to yourself. You don’t want me to do this. You are now, and always have been, very protective of me. Now it’s even worse. Gunny is right. The minute you walk into a room, it’s written all over your face, ‘she’s mine, keep your hands off’.  Well, that just won’t work for a sting.  If I’m unavailable, the boys won’t take the bait.” “That’s another thing. You keep calling them ‘the boys’. They’re almost thirty years old. I don’t think ‘boys’ is an accurate description anymore.” “See, you’re doing it again. Getting all over-protective on me.  This is going to be a short, quick, sting. Something to give the authorities enough to take over. Most likely, we’ll even have Baskin standing by.” “Oh, THAT really helps,” Harm huffed sarcastically. “The more I deal with him, the more I think you, we’ve, underestimated him.” Mac stopped to think about that.  Baskin was becoming much more of an enigma to her. “Until we get that photo from Baskin of Marjorie, all of this is wasted breath. We need for the shopkeeper to identify her before we can put any other plans into action.  If it turns out she is ‘the’ Marjorie we’re looking for, then all we need is a simple plan to entrap the boys.  It will be just like Miami.  All I had to do was walk along the dock, you and the old geezers pretty much did the rest.” “We’ll see what ideas get kicked around this afternoon, but that doesn’t mean I have to like it.”  Harm finally took a bite of his food, not even sure what it was he had ordered. Harm’s office Three days later “I’ve managed to get you an invitation to a small gala benefit at the home of Lady Brighton.” Baskin handed Harm and Mac each an engraved invitation. “Small Gala, isn’t that an oxymoron?” Harm huffed.  Baskin merely, shot him a dirty look.  “Black tie. Nice,” Mac smiled. “The Habersham twins will be there. They always are. Lady Brighton’s reputation as hostess precedes her.  You’ll have a good chance to study them, and make yourselves known.” Baskin glanced at Mac and Gunny, ignoring Rabb. Harm looked the invitation over carefully. “Who did you have to bribe to get these? It must have cost you a fortune.” “Nobody. Sarah’s my sister.” Three heads shot up wide-eyed, looking at him. “Don’t seem so stunned.  I never claimed to be raised in a cave.” Silent gestures filled the room, as each person shrugged off their reaction. “Very well, a couple of my boys will be waiters. Help keep an eye on you two. Other than that, I believe you American’s say: all the bases are covered.” Harm rolled his eyes. Somehow using a baseball analogy when Gunny was going to be dangling his wife as distraction for two aristocratic playboys didn’t exactly make his day. “I’d prefer it if I could be with you.” Harm was looking at Mac. So much for a quick sting. “At least you’ll be able to see and hear everything.  You and I will be in the surveillance room. We’ll have all the security camera views at our disposal, and of course we should hear all of the conversation.” Turning towards the Gunny, “The wire will be on Mrs. Rabb, so don’t leave her side under any circumstances.” “Understood,” Gunny nodded. As everyone left the Captain’s office, Gunny lingered a little longer than necessary by Beth’s desk. “How did your weekend go?” he asked as nonchalantly as possible. “Fine. Thank you, Gunny.” Beth was doing her best to avoid eye contact, busying herself with work on her computer. “Good. I’d better get back to work.” Gunny nodded and headed straight for the break room. Five minutes later he was back at her desk.  “Thought you might like this. It’s herbal.” He had set a cup of hot tea by her side, as well as a small dish of sliced bananas and cheese. “My sisters swear by the extra protein, and insist bananas work better than crackers.” Not waiting for a response, Gunny smiled and went back to marine business. Beth watched him walk away. Shaking her head slowly, she couldn’t quite figure him out.  So tough on the outside, yet apparently thoughtful. A small tear rose to the corner of her eye. What would Greg be doing if he were here now? Would he have hovered over her, worried about her? Or just pranced around like a proud peacock? Wiping the single tear from her cheek as another threatened to follow, she took a piece of banana from the plate. Suck it up, she reminded herself, turning to the computer and typing away frantically. Suck it up. Rabb Flat Five days later The cover story was that Gunny and Lady Sarah Brighton had met during her last ski vacation in Colorado. Mac was to be his newest trinket.  Harm and Baskin would be driving over to Lady Brighton’s shortly.  Gunny and Mac would arrive a little afterwards, having been invited earlier than the other guests for private cocktails.  The entire story hinged on Gunny and Mac being Americans, and hence less likely to be someone the Habersham boys should know.  Harm had tried arguing that the case was now Scotland Yard’s, since the director agreed there was enough circumstantial evidence to at least warrant looking into it further. Though, it was unlikely they’d come up with anything more than they had in the last few years. Baskin, on the other hand, made it quite clear that none of their British agents would be able to pass for previously unnoticed affluence. It had to be Americans with whom the boys were less familiar. It wouldn’t seem unusual for the Habershams to discover herds of wealthy Americans they’d never heard of. Harm had come to one understanding in all this: Baskin wanted to nail ‘the boys’ as much as they did.  “Good God, where’d you get that dress!”  Harm’s eyebrows were kissing his hairline. “Picked it up yesterday at Louis Vuittons.” “On my salary?” Harm swallowed hard. “Of course not. Scotland Yard paid the tab.  This is technically their investigation. This is supposed to be a gift from Victor to show off his latest trophy.” “Victor?” “Come on, Harm. You know I can’t call him Gunny.” “But, Mac. That dress?  You’re practically falling out of it.” The extremely low cut, tightly fitted bodice had Mac’s breasts resting close and high. Every time she took a step, they bounced like Jell-O. “I have to make up for the fact that I’m neither a blonde, nor a redhead,” Mac shrugged. And exactly, WHERE are they going to put the wire?” Mac didn’t bother answering, she simply rolled her eyes and turned away to retrieve her new shoes from the closet. Before Harm could repeat his question, the doorbell rang. “That’s either Baskin and the Electronics guy, or Gunny.  Would you mind letting them in while I finish up?” Mac smiled sweetly hoping to put Harm at ease. Nodding, Harm literally stomped all the way to the front door. Opening it with more force than necessary, Baskin and his wire specialist could actually hear the whooshing sound as it flew open. Harm was at least slightly relieved to see that the other guy was actually a woman. He didn’t like the idea of other men touching his wife, for any reason. Heck, he would have preferred it if her gynecologist was a woman.  “She’s back that way.” Harm pointed over his shoulder, down the hall.  Dutifully, the smiling woman hurried off to work. “Not that there’s much dress to hide it with,” Harm called pseudo-teasingly to her. “Quite a dress, isn’t it?” Baskin asked, stepping into the apartment. “You’ve seen it?” “We needed to see the dress before this evening so Alice would know what she had to work with.  Mrs. Rabb brought it by straight away after purchasing it.  Spot on with her choice,” Baskin nodded approvingly. “Mm, yes, spot on.” Harm followed Baskin into the living room when the doorbell rang again. “That must be Gunny. Have a seat. We’ll be right with you.” Opening the door a little more calmly for Gunny, the three men were shortly chatting amicably in the living room while waiting for Mac and Alice to come out. “Just keep in mind, this isn’t about money,” Baskin reminded everyone. “It’s the challenge, the ego.” “Understood. I’m a marine. I believe I’m familiar with the concept.” Gunny glanced in Harm’s direction, swallowing a laugh at the Captain’s knowing grin. The tux might allow him to blend in with the crowd, but he was still all marine inside. “Yes, I imagine you would,” Baskin conceded. Harm had to admit Mac was right. Gunny was the better man for this job.  His noncom rank gave him a casual air that screamed American across the room, and yet his military discipline gave him an air of pride and confidence that could easily have been mistaken for money, lots of it.  Add to that he was a marine, and he could probably read these guys better than anyone in the room. Chapter 19 Suddenly Baskin and Gunny jumped up from their seats. Standing in front of Harm, their eyes were falling out of their heads, and their chins were on the floor.  Mac had obviously entered the room. Turning around, although he’d seen her not long ago himself, even he was stunned to see how gorgeous she looked. Her hair was slightly curled and wild, her breasts jiggled with every movement, her hips were swaying rhythmically, and the slit up to her hip gave you a teasing glance at those long legs with every other step. “Wow…ma’am,” Gunny finally managed.  Mac couldn’t resist smiling. It was nice to know that pushing forty she still had it in her to turn a few heads. “Shall we get this show on the road?” Mac looked at her husband. “Yes. Alice will take the tube home. We’ll head straight to Sarah’s. Give us a fifteen minute head start,” Baskin added.  Brighton Estate: the Lakelands Outskirts of London 2210 hours Harm was beginning to get restless.  Gunny and Mac had been cooing at each other all night and the Habersham boys seemed to have not even noticed them.  Staring mindlessly at the security screens Harm watched as Mac walked away from Gunny.  “And we have lift off.” Harm straightened in his chair, nudging Baskin.  Albert the older brother had just done a double take as Mac brushed past him on her way to the ladies room.  A few minutes later when she passed by again, Albert awkwardly elbowed his brother whose reaction was very similar to that of Baskin and Gunny earlier in the evening. “I do believe this evening is about to get interesting, Captain.” “I do believe you are right, Inspector.” “Heads up, they’re coming this way,” Gunny whispered into Mac’s ear. She giggled loudly, pretending he’d told her something more personal. “I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure of an introduction?” Oliver directed at Mac before turning to extend his hand to Gunny. “Oliver Habersham.” “Albert Habersham.” Albert shook Gunny’s hand after Oliver. “Victor Harmon. This is my friend, Sarah MacIntire.” “Very pleased to meet you.” The two brothers replied simultaneously. Harm and Baskin listened intently for over an hour as the three couples discussed everything from where Mac had bought her dress to the much-congested traffic in London.  Finally, it sounded like Mac and Gunny were going to get their open door. “I can’t believe this is your first trip to London,” Oliver stepped a little closer to Mac. “Have you been enjoying the sights?” “So far, but I’m getting tired of marble arches, old buildings, and museums,” Mac tried to slightly whine.  “I mean, I thought I’d go to that maritime museum, you know, get a souvenir for my mom’s brother since he’s in the Navy, but getting caught in the hoopla of the burglary has left me cold on playing tourist.” “Yeah, can you believe that wimp?” Gunny took a sip of his drink, gauging the boys’ reaction out of the corner of his eye. “You were at the museum the day of the burglary?” Oliver seemed to be ignoring Gunny’s comment. “Just before. I can’t imagine what it would have been like to have been caught up in the smell and the gas,” Mac explained. “I still say the thief was a wimp. Anyone could have taken a few papers that no one else wants. I understand that museum is filled with really valuable items.  Some of those paintings are worth millions,” Gunny cut in. “So?” Albert added, his feathers starting to ruffle. “I’m just saying it’s obvious the thief was a lowly seaman. Not smart enough to go after the really challenging merchandise.” “You don’t think getting away with stealing some of Britain’s most valuable records of history was a challenge.” It was obvious from his tone of voice that Oliver was offended. “Nope.” Gunny took another drink. “At a boy, Gunny,” Harm encouraged under his breath. He only wished he could get a better angle on their faces through all this. “So you think real skill requires going after the big museum pieces?” Albert threw back, obviously trying to control his tone. “No, I’m just saying true thievery is an art, requires a little genius.” Gunny pulled Mac a little closer, squeezing her around her waist. Giving his words time to sink in. He’d been tempted more than once to plant a kiss on her just for show, but somehow he knew he’d never be able to look Captain Rabb in the face again if he did. The game seemed to be working. Gunny could tell the boys were starting to boil. He was starting to enjoy this. “The days of Cary Grant’s ‘le chat’, or David Nivens ‘the phantom’ are long gone.  The world hasn’t seen a famous thief for years.  With modern technology it’s becoming too difficult. Thieves have to be relegated to the ordinary, like that museum job.” “You really think pulling that job off was ordinary? I think it took true genius to plan and time it perfectly enough to make it look simple and ordinary, not to mention go undetected for hours,” Oliver explained proudly. “Nope, don’t buy it. Too easy.  Kid just got lucky.” Gunny almost jumped out of his skin when he felt Mac’s fingers begin doodling on his forearm. “He’s right. If that sailor were any good, he’d have gone after something much more difficult,” Mac tried to help push the two over the edge. “What exactly do you consider a more worthy challenge?” Albert asked through steely eyes. Bingo. Mac and Gunny did it. The gauntlet had been dropped and the challenge was on. Gunny had to force himself not to look at Mac. “Well, if I were a thief, I wouldn’t look any further.” Gunny waved his arm pointing to his surroundings. “This place looks as secure as Fort Knox. The only thing missing is a moat.” “I have heard that Lady Brighton has one of the most impressive jewelry collections next to the Queen herself,” Mac glanced in Sarah Brighton’s direction. “Anybody can steal jewels,” Albert grimaced. “I don’t see any challenge in that.” “It’s not the jewels, it’s their keeper.” Gunny took a quiet breath. “Look up. Those are infrared sensors spaced every three feet. They’re architecturally disguised along the corners of the walls too.” Gunny waited as Albert and Oliver looked around. “There are enough people watching this place to guard the president.  All they’re missing are the dark sunglasses.” Gunny pointed with his nose to the two men standing at the base of the main stairwell in tails, the other two by the entrance to the kitchens and servants quarters, and at another two at the top of the second floor landing by either entryway to the east and west wings. “I believe the ‘staff’ is rather extensive,” Gunny chuckled, watching the boys’ eyes scanning the well-dressed guards. “Do you see the security cameras?” he continued. The two brothers looked at each other as if silently re-evaluating the merit of the Gunny’s claims.  Looking around one more time, one by one they each noticed the previously undetected cameras. “Undetectable to the untrained eye.” Oliver looked Gunny over carefully. “I don’t recall your mentioning what you do in the States?” “I didn’t.” Gunny smiled, hesitating a moment longer. “Anyhow, if I felt inclined to prove myself, I would consider this a worthy challenge.” “Mission accomplished.” Baskin slapped Harm on the back. “We can only hope so,” Harm sighed heavily.  Now the rest would be up to Scotland Yard. “They’ll do it. I’d better arrange to have all those ‘jewels’ moved to the bank vault first thing in the morning. You’re wife is pretty good at this. I could almost see those boys drooling when she mentioned the Queen.  Good thinking on her part.” “Wouldn’t have expected anything less.” “So, I’m learning, Captain. So I’m learning.” Chapter 20 London Headquarters Courtroom Five Days Later 1045 hours “Postponement granted, but this is the last time.” The sound of the gavel pounding echoed loudly through the room. “Ma’am?” “Yes, Seaman?” Mac closed her briefcase. “What happens if we don’t have something more conclusive next time?” “Then we go with the case we’ve got.  Don’t worry.” Mac tried to encourage the sailor with a smile. Waiting for the MP to escort Moore from the courtroom, Mac wondered how much longer before Scotland Yard would have something to move on. They’d been following the two Habersham brothers for almost a week and there wasn’t any strong indication that they might indeed be planning a new heist. She didn’t want to jeopardize the investigation by bringing them up as reasonable doubt in the hearing, but if push came to shove, she’d do whatever was necessary to make sure her client’s case didn’t go to court martial. “We may be running out of time,” Meg said to Mac’s back. “I know.” Mac turned around to face her opposing counsel. “Besides the fact that I’ve got orders back to Pearl next week. Even if my replacement is as understanding as I am, there’s no way Captain Baens is going to go for another postponement.” “Agreed,” Mac let out a heavy sigh.  They had hoped to be able to catch the brothers without actually having to possibly wait months for the actual heist. Time was a luxury Seaman Moore didn’t have any more. Beth James Desk 1645 “Any chance you’ll be getting out on time tonight?” Gunny asked. “Yup! The Captain secured early today. I’m just waiting for the clock to strike 1700 and praying some Admiral doesn’t have a spasm before then.” “Good. I was hoping you’d keep me company for dinner.” “I know I said you make more money than I do, but you don’t have to keep feeding me.” “Well, if you’re not hungry....” “I didn’t say that!” Beth started to laugh. “I just feel guilty you’re picking up the tab all the time.” Her gaze settled softly on his, “You’re not responsible for me, Gunny.” “I know. But it’s you or Blair, and Blair eats too much garlic.” Beth laughed out loud. If it hadn’t been so true, it wouldn’t have been so funny.  Sometimes she wondered if Blair was trying to ward off vampires or something. Clachan Pub Kingly St 1715 “This is only the second postponement, but Baens almost blew a gasket. Glad I don’t have to deal with him on a regular basis. I don’t think he’s going to forget very quickly.” Mac finished up the last forkful on her plate. “He doesn’t take well to civilian lawyers in a military court. Even though you’re inactive reserve with over 15 years under your belt, technically, you’re a civilian.” Harm sat back slightly in his chair, thoroughly satisfied with the early dinner. “We’ve got two weeks. Let’s hope Scotland Yard comes up with some solid evidence so I don’t have to go up in front of Baens again.” Mac glanced over at the specials board. “We should probably go ahead and order something for Mattie while we have dessert.” “You mean while you have dessert.  I don’t have your metabolism.” “I can help you work it off,” Mac grinned impishly. “Now that’s an offer I can’t refuse.” Harm noticed Mac’s expression turn from tempting to curious and turned his head to see what had suddenly caught her attention. “Something wrong?” Harm couldn’t quite pinpoint where in the large restaurant she was focusing. “Isn’t that Beth and Gunny?” Harm turned fully around in his seat, his eyes immediately falling on the two laughing people coming through the front door. “Yeah, it is. I didn’t realize they were that friendly. I thought you told me there wasn’t anything going on.” Harm turned back to Mac. “I’m not sure. Could just be two coworkers out for a bite to eat, or...” “Or what?” There was a slight tone of concern in his voice. “Or... I could have been wrong.” Mac continued staring at the two as they walked closer. “Don’t look now, but I think we’re busted,” Gunny leaned slightly forward, whispering near Beth’s ear. “Wha...oh…yup,” Beth replied awkwardly. “Guess, we better say hello before they get the wrong idea.” “Yeah, wouldn’t want that.” Gunny looked down at the top of her head. He still wondered what she’d look like if she let her hair down. “Captain, Colonel. Did you enjoy your dinner?” Gunny smiled, his marine confidence in place. “Gunny, Petty Officer.” Harm stood up. “Yes, thank you we did.” “It was a great suggestion, Gunny. Thank you,” Mac added. “I’ve been eating here a lot since I arrived. It hasn’t disappointed yet,” Gunny smiled. “I wouldn’t think so.” Harm retook his seat. “If you’ll excuse us, we’d better get a table while we still can.” Gunny pointed to a table in the corner with his nose, as the four echoed appropriate good-byes. “Do I need to worry about something?” Harm turned around fully in his seat. “First of all, I don’t think there’s anything personal there.” “Personal?” “Yeah. There’s no intimacy there.” “How would you know that?” Harm curled his brow. “They’re walking rather far apart. They were even before they spotted us. People in a personal relationship tend to move a little closer. I also noticed at no point did Gunny touch her.” “I don’t suppose you care to explain exactly what you mean by touch?” “When we were at our closest in our working relationship, you would find little ways to touch me. In a situation like this, I would have felt your hand on the small of my back more the once. You probably would have tapped me on the shoulder to point to the empty table. Gunny didn’t move his arms at all.  He’s keeping his distance from her.” “Okay, maybe I’ll buy all that. What’s the secondly?” “Even if they were getting personal, what do you care? They wouldn’t be breaking any regs.” “No, but you know what happens with office romances.  It creates office bedlam.” “That’s not always true. Harriet and Bud didn’t create bedlam. They were cute.” “True, but I’m short staffed now. I don’t need cute.  I need efficient.” “What makes you think Gunny wouldn’t be? Even in Afghanistan, with the woman he was in love with missing, he was the same reliable marine he always was.” “Yes, he was.” Harm sat back in his chair a little less concerned than he’d been a few minutes ago. “So what shall we order Mattie?” “The fish and chips should be easy to reheat.  What do you want for....” Mac reached into her purse and quickly retrieved her ringing cell phone before it could bother the other patrons. “Hello,” she said quietly. “Mmhm...okay....yeah... thanks.” Mac flipped the phone shut, a huge grin spreading across her face. “Who was it?” All sorts of possibilities swam through Harm’s mind in a flash. “Baskin.  Marjorie rented a car yesterday afternoon.  Albert and Oliver have been parked down the road all day from the Lakelands watching the comings and goings.” “That’s a start.” “That’s not all. Someone at the alarm company was downloading the blueprints to the Brighton’s system.” “Do we know who?” Mac nodded her head yes. “Some IT person from Scotland Yard has been monitoring the system all week.  They’ve put a tail on the employee. Baskin will call me if anything goes down.” The same grin that was plastered on Mac’s face spread across Harm’s.  “I think this calls for two desserts.”                                                                     BACK          NEXT                                                                   HOME