A WALK BETWEEN TWO HEARTS-13

By LORRAINE 0.

PART 13

The clouds were hanging low in the darkened sky, a slight wind was picking up from the east making the tree leaves rustle and flutter about on their branches. Small dust clouds formed on the road ahead of the car only to quickly blow away into the tall brush. An old rotting fence ran along the one side of the road, obviously seeing better days as it was falling apart in many spots. A driveway appeared up ahead, a small sign swinging in the breeze had the numbers 1123 engraved into the wood. The same numbers on Michaels panel. Gearing down, he turned into the narrow lane, his attention focused on the immediate area.

He didn’t like the fact the road was narrow and closed in by bushes and trees nor the fact he was going into a possible situation ill prepared thanks to Operations. With one hand still on the steering wheel, he reached down into his jacket, his hand closing over his gun, as if to comfort his nerves.

A bright flash of lightening far off in the distance followed by a loud crack of thunder rolled across the skies above giving the usual calm Michael an involuntary shiver. He cursed lowly at his uncharacteristic behaviour and let go of the gun handle and laid his hand on his hard thigh instead.

The lane turned sharply to the right revealing a lovely old home, 4 stories high with a grand wrap around porch. The roof revealed 4 old brick chimneys of which 2 was smoking. The yard was large, the grass well trimmed as were the surrounding bushes and tall trees. A barn and a garage were placed not too far from the house, they too similar in style to the grand old house.

Michael arched an eyebrow slightly, wondering what it was that Operations needed him to take care of here. The panel had indicated he was to meet with someone to discuss Section business. This was hardly the setting any meeting he took part in the past was set in.

Pulling up to the steps leading to the front doors, he turned the engine off, and opened his door, getting out. A few raindrops hit his face as yet another roll of thunder sounded; only it was closer now. Pushing his blowing hair from his eyes, he walked around the front of his car, being careful to keep his back from facing the large house. All the windows had heavy lace curtains that he was unable to see thru. That alone made him an easy target and he didn’t much care for it.

Reaching down onto the seat, he pulled out his bag, slinging it over his shoulder, slamming the door shut once again.

Placing the car keys in his pocket, he pulled out his gun, cocking it in readiness for any possible dangers. Holding the gun firmly, he made his way up the steps; surprised it didn’t creak at all under his weight.

Potted plants adorned the porch, as did beautiful white and black wrought iron furniture. A musical wind chime swayed in the breeze making a relaxing tune. It was all much too ideal for his taste. Something was amiss.

Simone entered the perch, her chin lifted high when Operations turned to greet her. It was the first time in almost 3 years since they had seen one another aside from her initial first appearance at the mission meeting a few days ago. Operations smiled his fake smile, balancing his butt on the long ledge of the perch windows.

Simone, good to see you. You’re looking well, all things considered. He slid one hand into his pant pockets watching her eyes flash at him. He chuckled in wry amusement at her defiance. She reminded him of the small dog looking up at the big dog just before he was bitten.

Simone drew herself up, yet remained silent, waiting instead for why she was summoned. Don’t you have anything to say, perhaps even ask me? He asked leaning on his elbow, looking far too relaxed for her tastes.

What would you have me say? She asked.

Well, perhaps why I left you for dead with Glass Curtain, why we kept your son alive, why you’re here talking to me now? He paused, his one foot swung back and forth slowly. Or where is Michael?

Simone clenched her jaw tightly to keep from cursing him aloud.

Operations sat up straighter, his eyes scanned over her petite feminine form which didn’t go unnoticed by Simone. She fought the urge to vomit at his obvious inspection of her.

No? No questions? He was once again met with stubborn silence. This time he laughed aloud and got to his feet, casually walking around her in circles.

Simone, you’re just as lovely and stubborn as the day you left here on that fateful mission. I admire that. He whispered in her small ear, his breath tickling her skin, sending a shiver down her back.

Simone riveted her eyes on a spot in the far wall, trying desperately not to lash out at him and break his nose. How he sickened her.

It wasn’t my idea Simone, to leave you behind. It was Centre. They gave the order,, we merely followed it. So you see, your anger is directed at the wrong person. I could help you, if you let me.

He rubbed up behind her, his hands rested on her shoulders, kneading the taut muscles.

Simone stepped away from him, turning to him, her face almost pale looking.

Operations cocked his head to the side his face carefully masking his fury at her rejection. Lowering his hands, he placed them back in his pockets. Don’t be foolish. I am in a position to help if you will just show me a little respect.

Simone felt physically ill, her mind reeling under the pressure she found herself now in. Operations darkened the windows and sat down again on the ledge.

Come here Simone. He said quietly setting the small device down beside him.

Simone backed away her eyes bright.

Sighing, Ops shook his head looking down at the floor below before speaking again.

I wont ask you twice. He said, eyes still scanning the floor below.

With leaden feet, Simone forced herself forward, stopping just short of him.

His eyes looked up at her and then down to a spot just in front of him a few times until she got the message to come forward.

Simone stared over his head, fighting back the panic as she felt his hands slid up either side of her hips as he spoke. Much better Simone,,, much better. Just like old times.

Michael pushed open the door, standing back to the side slightly until he could see clearly into the hallway. It appeared to be clear of any possible hostiles so he stepped in, setting the bag down on the floor, gun still cocked and ready to fire if need be.

He was too busy concentrating on possible dangers to notice the beauty of the home with its hardwood floors, carved inlaid rosewood along the walls and doorjambs, the plush throw rugs in strategic spots. Instead, he approached the first door he came to and peered around the corner. No one was there but he saw a dainty looking reception type room with beautiful pink chairs in rich brocade under a large bay window. Paintings adorned the walls as well as a clock. On the far wall were a variety of teacups and crystal figurines in a display case.

Pulling back, he continued down the hall. Eyes glancing up the large staircase, he saw that a large skylight cast natural light from the ceiling 4 floors up.

Impressive. He thought to himself continuing on down to yet another room.

It too was deserted so he ignored the gun collection in yet another display case in this room and entered what appeared to be a large pantry and glassed in porch.

The view behind the house was spectacular. The countryside seemed to roll on forever, spotted with a forest off to the far left side of the property. A small house the size for a child to play in stood under a massive tree.

A bright blaze of lightening sprawled across the sky almost blinding him with its intensity followed by a loud crash of thunder just as he spotted movement inside the small house. Knowing being under a tree in a storm was a bad idea; he hesitated for a split second before rushing out to the small house.

The skis above opened with a torrent of heavy rain just as he reached the small door. Pulling up his gun to just under his chin, Michael pressed up against the solid wall by the door.

Come out and I wont hurt you. He yelled getting ready for whatever would reveal itself. Waiting only a few moments, he decided to yell again.

Now, get out before I am forced to come in after you! He said more firmly this time.

A thud could be heard from inside the house and the then the door opened slowly. Ready to spring, Michael waited; ignoring his now soaked hair dripping into his eyes.

Much to his surprise, the form of a small boy came out, his back to him as he stepped out. Something inside Michael clicked, his heart turned over even before the child turned to look at him. Green eyes met green eyes and both stood frozen.

Tristan? Michael whispered disbelievingly recognizing the boy from the file Simone had shown him.

The boy brought his chin up and immediately relaxed yet had an air of haughtiness about him.

Hello father.

CONTINUE TO PART 14 OF A WALK BETWEEN TWO HEARTS

GO BACK TO PART 12 OF A WALK BETWEEN TWO HEARTS

GO TO A WALK BETWEEN TWO HEARTS PAGE

RETURN TO NC-17 FANFIC PAGE

RETURN TO MAIN FANFIC PAGE