Chapter XII
Jt was beginning to worry. Vincent, serious and taciturn, had asked him to drive today his car.
There was something very normal, but occasionally he did, especially when he did not want conversation during the trip. He stared traffic and forgat talk.
They left the car parked a couple of blocks further north of the lab, took the things they would need and they headed there.
Tess had stayed in that would come as soon as she could.
Jt threw a few questioning glances along the way, hoping to speak, and him to tell what was going through his head, because was convinced that it had to do with him.
They entered the building and were walking up to the lab itself. There Vincent, supported the table and folding chairs to the stone wall, he told Jt, not to let the spotlight and gave a head movement to follow him. He was behind him.
They reached the cell where Tori was dead. The gate was closed. Vincent pulled it and opened it. The sound of metal against metal echoed through the place more twitching the nerves of Jt.
Vincent walked toward your goal, as if he had not heard. He came to the slit where it was the small spring and flipped it. Jt heard and saw, as the wall was moving slightly. Vincent leaned with both hands and pushed her so they could pass.
He took one of portable lights, lit and in the hollow inside ... his friend did the same and followed. Came down the stairs and into the space where the door, which opened Vincent.
-It's for here.- he said abruptly.
Jt heard but his attention was then, on the other side. The tunnel continued in that direction, to absolute darkness. He was paralyzed, staring at the blackness until Vincent struck him on the shoulder. With the same nasty tone of voice said:
-Don't Worry ... there is a concrete wall, 60 cm. thick .. there will not come to bother anyone. - He said as he entered the room-. And, for something you have to weapon of Tess.
Jt followed. The cutting tone Vincent had awakened him. He thought to ask openly, but he was afraid of what his lifelong friend, could say. He recognized himself, it was something he expected, from the time that Vincent knew, but as much as he wait, was not prepared for this confrontation. It was his worst nightmare ...
They put the spotlight on the area of the right, that was clear.
- We have lighting for three hours or so...- said Jt.
Vincent finished directing them to the shelves and headed slowly toward the latter, where he found the box with the clothes of Rebecca's. Jt was behind him, pulling out a small pocket flashlight.
Vincent got there and pointed to the hollow where the box was.
- There. - Jt pointed his flashlight where told. - yes... ... there. - He was corroborated -... the box that contained Rebecca's dress.
Jt glanced around and seeing the number of boxes, could not help but ask.
- Do you looked at all ...?
Vincent shook his head from side to side.
-I saw the letters "RR" in the box and then I knew ... the furniture in the house take those same engraved letters ... It had to be her ...
Jt recalled that it was. He had seen the furniture in any previous occasion. He stood a moment thinking. Something in his mind told him he had to pay attention, something he was escaping. Vincent took it out of his thoughts when he spoke.
-I want to know, more or less, how many boxes there and what they contain ... inspeccioneis gems kept them in a separate box ... .- frowned momentarily- . I do not understand because they have left here ... in theory, are necessary to control the beasts ... they have quite a few ...
Jt tried to find an explanation.
-Perhaps they have found something that helps them control may further experiments with DNA are more effective ...
Vincent looked at him for a few seconds. Do not think about what your friend toward said. It was towards the end of the room, not bothering to tell him to accompany him. Anyway he continued, sighing.
When he arrived he saw on the wall were two steel doors, equidistant from each other and both of the walls.
-These two doors yet I have not opened ... .- began to say, not bothering to know if Jt had reached its height or not. If the keys that you find me a favor and not entrar.- used a condescending tone that did not like anything Jt- can be anything there and I would not want you pass anything ... After all I am the superhero here ... You are mere mortals. - Said with irony and a lot of bad milk, as he walked to the door of the room. ... Well, now I gotta let you go ... You have to wait up Tess, here not think he knows down unless she's guess ...
Jt saw walked away with hardly direct gaze and could not resist ...
-¡Vincent! Stop! ! .. ok? Are you going to tell you a damn time occurs.? I'm tired of ...
His friend turned suddenly and appeared a few centimeters from him in which cost him back up for air. Staring at him through an amber eyes ...
- What happens to me? !What you're tired of what?! .- His expression was terrifying, it did not become, but lacked very little. Something held him to keep the , along with others, have made my life was hell ...! You ... .- faced him. Jt under his head, he could not stand the look. - . ... That in your utter selfishness you did not want to be alone, decided it was better to introduce these experiments damn ...
-Vincent .. I just did it ..
-No! You didn't for me ...You did it for you! ... ..- He looked at him with anger difficult to assimilate by Jt that was trying hold as he could.
Basically, a part of him knew Vincent was right, apart from his parents, he was everything he had ... without Vincent would be alone ... and that was what led him to aim at the experiment ... His friend continued:
- Do not forget never know when people lie to me ... - said, spitting out each of the words to his face - . And all have lied to me forever, Muirfield, the father of Cat ... you ... .all have used me until Cat, used me when she was interested ... and now ... when it seemed that life could be different and was accepting my situation and assimilating up can you get my happiness ... this happens! ...-yellow of his eyes intensified.
-Vincent. - Jt again tried to speak, but did not let him.
-How Would you be if you knew that going to live much longer than all the people you want. - The voice had become much more serious and torn -. II'm about to go crazy ... I've seen too many people die ... I do not want to go through it.
He turned from Jt and began walking aimlessly around the room. His friend looked at him as one looks at a caged animal. He approached the wall and punched him with all the forces that could, it cracked from top to bottom. Vincent rested his forehead on it and remained standing.
Jt gaped at him. Most of the time was not aware of what his friend was able to do, but at this point, yes.
Suddenly, Vincent, returned again to where he was. Jt held his breath:
-This Is a curse ... do not you see? My life has been a mess from the moment that injects me that damned serum ... .- he bowed his head. His eyes were no longer yellow and his voice was back to the usual, but the frustration and anger were still visible -. Jt , I did not ask this ... I do not want this ... I want nothing of this life "beast" that prevents me be free! .- she put her hands to his face and starting to walk back just sticking to the wall. It was left slid down until he was sitting on the floor. Jt was toward him, slowly.
-I ... do not wanna see you die before my eyes ... - He removed his hands from his face and saw that he was crying - . I could not stand it ... I do not want to be alone ... - he looked around - .. When I fled Afghanistan I spent a long time ... and I thought I could ever have someone by my side ... .- He looked at Jt-. I do not want that to happen ... God! I could not live without Catherine ... not without you ...
Jt squatted and sat beside him.
- You will not. Find something ... I know ...
Vincent shook his head from side to side.
-I do not think ... this is a conviction ... .- closed his eyes as he rested his head the cold stone. Take a deep breath before speaking again. - ... You know who really is to blame for all this?
Jt said nothing.
-The only responsible, I am. - He said with a half smile on his face reflected. Tears were streaming down her cheeks. - . If he had not wanted to be the hero to avenge my brothers ... the hero to avenge all those who had fallen into the towers. - His friend looked at him for a few seconds -. I never should have enlisted ... No I will listen to any ... or my parents, or Alex, or you ... was the most selfish person in the face of the earth ... and yes ... - raised his voice as he looked back all front, rabies was there-. I wanted to be a superman, wanted to kill all the damage they had caused me ... fuck, killed my brothers! ... ..- Cry crying.
Jt equally excited that his friend put his arm around his shoulder. The Keller family was his family ... and his loss broke his soul every time he thought of it.
Vincent spoke again after a few minutes.
-I'd give anything to go back and change things ...
-Not Would be with Cat, ... .- he said.
Vincent looked at him. The anger had given way to sadness.
-What you've never had, you can never lose ... .- he said - . But anyway, something tells me that Cat, and I are destined to be together from the beginning of time .. .- weakly smiled as he said ... I have never believed in reincarnation or things like that ... but since I'm with her ..-.- shook his head from side to side. - . I do not know ... I feel like we've always been together and when we parted in different lives we live, we seek to find ...
Jt smiled and nodded.
-I quite agree with you ... .- tapped him on the shoulder. - . And do not give up ... we are now more and better ...
Vincent sighed.
-I need to talk to Stuart; I need someone to explain to me many things ... .- were raised floor two at a time.
Before they left the room Vincent grabbed his friend and gave him a hug.
-I'm sorry everything I've told you ... .- whispered in his ear.
-Don't Worry ... you were right .., much of the blame is mine ... did not want to be alone ... if you had died ... .- said, as he shook his head.
They followed a few seconds embraced until a woman's voice calling for Jt , came to them from above.
-It's Tess ...
They left the room and up the stairs, to meet the newcomer.
Mark had entered the gentlemen's club with keys that Jt had given him. In recent days, they had seen a number of times and thought they could get along well.
He was conscientious and hardworking, besides having a brilliant mind and that he liked. The fact that Jt species already have a central control, at home, when I began searching for Vincent, had made them think it was the best place to mount the monitoring device for the ... and Gabe
Sitting in the great armchair Jt , staring at the screen images while Gabe's house, heard the speakers, the conversation she with a Dr. Cross, assuring him that everything was going well and that the hospital had a program to treat depression as yours based on the loss of self esteem.
Mark had to smile, if they knew.
He loved this woman very much. He knew that his father and she had had an affair when his parents were still married, but he also knew that this was not a marriage ...
His mother took care to explain in detail what was his father and that when he turned 16, would have to go with him ... family business, had called her.
Currently she lived in London, oblivious to everything; married to a renowned cardiologist and happy; although he had to give a missed call on her mobile, every day. It was his way of saying that they were still alive. Both.
It had been, in the last moment by the club to finish give Dana, latest indications on the system used to follow. She's had understood perfectly.
Then Stuart had taken to the hotel where accommodation just theoretically and from there, she was alone.
And for now, things went well. While the attending physician, the information services of Baker were checking the data; had entered the page you were cloned and modified, and had called to his office where requested secretary, coincidentally with his own voice, gave them all the information.
Suddenly, everything about Dana step into the background ... Gabe just destroy the microphones that had been placed in his house ... and watched, smiling, went to one of the cameras. Seconds later, the image disappeared and behind that, all else.
Mark leaned back in his chair, cursing ... He passed his hand over his head and hastily grabbed the phone ... The bastard had realized immediately that he was being watched.
The pile of boxes was growing bigger and bigger.
Various costumes gave them an accurate idea of the number of people who "work" for them and how they died. What surprised them was found in his pockets small objects like coins, a ticket or even a letter. In one, they found a small collar where a name and a date is specified, possibly the birth.
-How Finished all these bodies here? -. Tess asked, crossing the room with a glance.
-I think I know ... .- said Jt ... at that moment.
Tess turned in surprise. Jt was looking into the pockets of the suit that he had found in the box that was inspecting.
-How do you know? -
-Yeah ... look at this, I just found this suit. - Said a police uniform from beginning of the century. In his hands was a role thousand times folded, yellowed with age, containing four lines of writing a letter and elegant hairline -. I seem to understand that asks if something pass ... I quote ... "to me Benjamin Delaware, should be advised the doctors of the English hospital immediately because they take charge of the funeral."
Tess approached him. He noted the note. She took one of the bags brought evidence and carefully told that Jt get in. That made. More, for evidence box ...
He had taken this as a field in the making. He had placed several plastic boxes: one for the gems, others for coins, notes and other small jewelry and now, for the roles.
When Vincent and Jt saw her, climbing tunnels, was carrying a large bag which had everything we needed. Efficiency had thought, Jt.
Now engaged in the task, she could not shake the mind one thing. At sight, she had noticed that something had happened between them. She had not said anything so far, while organizing work, but could not take it anymore. Began telling to Jt what Dr. Markus had said.
- They discovered that they were senators when they found their documentation ... were attached to their bodies and miraculously they could allow identification. Doc said firefighters had gone in record time so do not give time to it all go away ... The bodies were horribly charred but what caught his attention was seeing the same brands he had seen in the neck Vincent, which will he had made the beast of the Consortium ...
Jt stood staring thoughtfully.
-Do you think they could die before the accident?
-Not exactly .. That morning, when Vincent went, .- she explained, rummaging in the following box. .. He made a study of the samples were taken from the wound to Vincent and he found were traces of a muscle-paralyzing ... To Vincent made him very little effect but to a normal person would be devastating ... could not move a muscle. Breathing .. and little else ...
Jt took a breath.
-Why Would want to kill them?
Tess shrugged ..
-I do not know ... there's so much we do not know ... So, Cat, went to the police station to seek information of the dead ... I'll bet they all relate to the hospital.
Jt nodded.
-If they had those marks ... I'm sure.
He felt sadness in his voice and decided to attack. He could not stay well.
- The doctor told us also that Vincent did not like what he said about his ...
Jt finish.
-On his almost immortality ...
Tess looked at him seriously.
- He said he could cure genetic extraordinary, could save lives and he refused to serve human vaccine ... just want to find a cure that free you from all ... - pulled a tuxedo from the 20s of the box. She began to look carefully into the pockets - ... must be hard to assimilate a thing like that ... but it can really help people ... Markus asked Cat to try to convince him, but I think it is not for the work.
Jt focused on what I was doing did not say anything.
- What do you think about it? -. She asked him curiously.
Your guy deep breath before looking up and look.
-A moment ago, Vincent has reproached me what I did ... I did for pure selfishness ... and I swear, that has come to me so scared ...
Tess stood with the coin box in hand, just take a few she had found in the suit.
-How could you? With everything you've done for him? and also you did not know where you were getting ... it seems very unfair on his part. - Said, visibly upset.
Jt's hand through the face.
-Maybe ... but basically he is right ... if I had not ...
-Maybe he was dead there.- hastened to add it.
He looked at her. She was right.
-'Anyway, it has realized the injustice of their recriminations and has ended up blaming yourself everything ... .Tess, not want to live any more than necessary ... not bear life without us ... No wants to be alone as when he fled from Afghanistan. He took a long time and come see me ... and even more to tell me what was wrong ..
Tess put the box on the floor next to each other and approached him.
-When did he tell you? .- Asked.
Initially gave the impression that he had not heard, then left the box on the shelf and deep breathing turned to her. Glasses put in place and put his hands in his pockets.
She concluded to perfection, it was something I did not like to talk.
-It was a few days after he returned ... I met him one night while returning home from college. The shock was so ... huge, that during the early hours not know what to do. I was so glad he was alive I did not realize what was changed .- adjusted his glasses as he continued.
"-He warned me that had been things he could not tell ... who had fled Afghanistan and ... - He shook his head. - Do not get to really understand what he was saying ...
Tess sat on a chair with the five sense positions as Jt was telling.
- .. Until a couple of days later, I tried to convince him to see a lawyer who could defend him in a case of desertion .. .- laughed cynically. Desertion .. what idiot can become! ... I just wanted everything back the way they were .. Tess, you must understand that Vincentt had a life, had Alex, his parents ... All these people were suffering like I had suffered ... I just wanted to come back with them ...
-And you spent in pressure ... right?
He nodded.
- We discussed ... A part of me thought he had fled, of everything, afraid, is perfectly understandable, when all your unit dies and the next going to be you ... and gave he the impression that he did not want to be treated coward. The shame would much and more, knowing that your brothers died in the towers on a suicide fight ... giving their lives to try to save the others .. how wrong I was!
"It forces to leave the house, he shifted and suddenly started hearing a strange noise ..- closed his eyes.- . I remember like it was yesterday ... when I saw your face ... my mind ... I did not know ... I do not understand anything ... came to me and I guess the survival instinct led me to go to the kitchen, grabbed a knife and try to defend myself ... As you already can imagine I had no chance, grabbed me, threw the knife, he rose into the air and I was pitching, against the window when I started to beg ... .- ran his hands over his face - ... something was due to stir inside him ... and he did not ... he threw me to the couch and went into a corner of the room as if trying hide .. then slowly was changing ...
He stopped talking and looked at Tess.
-When we calm down, told me everything ... .- sighed - . And here we are ...
She went to him and took his hand, squeezed it hard, as he gave a kiss on the lips.
- That already happened ... and not hurt you and you never will ... Now this angry with the world ... but you know .. he always does the right thing ... .That's what makes him special ... .- he said looking into eyes gently - . Let us work ok?
He nodded and that was what they did.
Bob was on the phone with Mark when he heard a knock at the door. After saying goodbye to him was over there and opened.
He was surprised when he saw hooded man was standing in the doorway was Vincent.
-I Know you had stayed with Catherine that would come to dinner but I can not wait ... We need to talk.
Bob saw that he was visibly nervous. He turned away so he could pass. Once he did motioned to pass to the library. There he said to sit on one of the couches
- Do you want a drink?
-No ... I want to talk.
Bob sat in the other chair and clasped his hands.
-Stuart Is not ... at this time has come to carry out Dana Hotel where we stayed to cover the lid
-Well, you can tell your something while we wait .. right?
Bob looked under her lashes and nodded. He took a breath and began to speak.
-I met about 7 years ago when Nick's wife was kidnapped by the Consortium. They were more than fed up with us and also Nick and she had killed two scientists of the hospital ... not that they wanted, but things went well.
"-One night they localized her when back to the floor where they lived at the time. The caught and warned us requesting that we retired New York or kill her ..."
As he spoke Vincent noticed that his mind had returned to the place of his memories.
-They were hard days ... Nick was beside himself, Kevin too. With the help of some friends, we managed to find it. She was in an abandoned warehouse near the Brooklyn Bridge.
Vincent stood perfectly still while listening, not wanting to miss anything. He could feel the heartbeat of Bob which had accelerated considerably, showing that it was easier to lie than tell this story.
- They had her guarded by three beasts to use, or so we thought at first, but it was not. One of them was Stuart. During his time watching, almost three months, filed a strange relationship. Mary was a remarkable, strong, determined woman. - Vincent looked when talking about her- . Nick and Mary, met here in New York, in an armory, buying a pair of revolvers each unromantic but I swear, it was love at first sight. - Smiled at the memory -. Nick always knew he could trust her, and told the whole story to the second event that took ... did not need more. Mary became one of us and only longer covered for the first 10 years of Kevin, then it became a charming art teacher, her other great passion ...
Vincent listened intently.
- You're not lying to me, right? ... I know you're an expert ... - he said with a half smile on his face.
Bob settled back in his chair, smiling back.
-No ... Vincent ... Although I hate to admit it, you are already part of the family ... and that is sacred ... and you know why?
He refused.
-Because we can only trust us ... Everyone has a price, but the emotional ties makes no possible price to pay ... In a world like this and struggling with an organization that works miracles .. Only trust ourselves ... no one else can to give you such guarantees ... .- stared at him for a few seconds and went on talking -. .. You're already part of that confidence ... I know you will not come back at us and I know ... that you would act as Rebecca Duncan. Before hurt her, you will force her that kill you.
He nodded slowly.
-Without doubt ... .what would ...
Bob also nodded; his eyes were sad.
-I Believe you ... Well, we continue with what I can tell from Stuart ...
Vincent interrupted.
- He worked for them?
-Yeah ... but the reasons of why he did it, better than you would tell him ... I will just tell you because he finished with us.
"Mary was a survivor and learned to adapt to that life imprisonment. None of his captors hurt her, mainly due to the intervention of Stuart. He found her a perfect conversationalist, she had traveled widely and her great hobby was the story. They understood perfectly ...
In one of those conversations, Stuart asked him to tell him because we fought against them. He knew the official version of his bosses but was curious to know our motives ... And that was when everything changed ... Mary told him about Rebecca and he was livid ... he could not believe that Rebecca's family, was the one that was destroying the incredible work of their bosses ... Mary told him that the trace of her was lost in 1850.
"Well, the case was, a few days later rushed, all knew we were going to go get her and acted under orders. They said she was killed and that was what they tried to do.
When we got to the store, found a dantesque scene ... Two broken beasts, Mary's body lying on the ground with multiple injuries and a man at her side in transformation, with the body covered with blood ... just then we heard the engine of a car starting at full speed ... Stuart, half man and become descript beast, brought us into his arms Mary and let our feet ... then he collapsed ...
She was still alive and asked us not to let Stuart there, was an elected, who had met Rebecca and ... he had tried to save her ... we call an ambulance but she died on the way ... A bullet fired by a man named Morgan, had given close to the heart and there was nothing to do ... According to Stuart when he shot said something like that the best enemy is a dead enemy ...
Stuart had killed two beasts, which for him was ... "
Stuart then came in the door ..
- An act against my own essence.
Vincent got up like a spring sofa, his eyes turned yellow, the eyes of Stuart, red. Vincent felt, only to hear him speak, a respect he had not felt by anyone before ... except for his father, Michael Keller ... but this was more atavistic, more hierarchical ... It was hard to explain ...
Vincent and I will walk around the back garden and incidentally, will teach you the orchids they are beautiful ... ...- said looking at Bob.
-No problem, I have to talk to Nick and with Mark ...
He pulled his phone from his pants pocket and joined the words to action.
After making love as ever, both fell asleep.
Heather had come to his apartment looking forward to enjoying the success achieved in organizing the party and brought two bottles of champagne ...
He had spent the time since got home seized about how much "inconvenience" that populated his room and bedroom as well as a couple of small observers.
They were becoming very daring. What they did not know, was that he could notice when something was watching him. One of his new powers, do hypersensitive to detail. He could feel whatever had been in his house. Had to admit that whoever had done was good, very good ... but he was better.
While waiting for Heather would come had been preparing everything.
It was a shame to waste such a woman ... but would have it on hand if at some point, he needed to convince Cat of their virtues or simply, if needed to satisfy other most basic instincts.
Baker's "Butchers" would gladly have put a young woman for his experiments.
He placed carefully in the drawer of his bedside syringe with tranquilizer and then lowered the car to knock back seats. Put on a pair of plastic, if a reaction to the injection made her vomit, and then went, to call the hospital and announce their arrival with company.
He did not believe that Evan, you did much grace as he knew, but it was something that right now, did not care.
When he was done everything he sat down with a glass of wine and waited which spider to the fly.
And now slowly beginning to awaken from the dream in which he had fallen after being fully satisfied. She rose from the bed and went into the bathroom, pulled the syringe from the drawer and went back to bed.
Without Heather realized what was happening was injected into the arm. With that sleep a few hours. Now he had to prepare for the ride to the hospital. He picked up the phone to tell them and they were waiting with the essentials, with "all" the essentials.
Stuart and Vincent went into the garden ... the sun of June, seemed to temper his nerves a bit. The nerves of the two.
They were walking along a paved road that surrounded the house, enclosed by a multitude of pots. As the season it was, endless flowers gave him a colorful spectacular. Vincent could not help looking at him and compare him with the Rebecca's description of the child in his diary that helped her when she arrived to the island.
The blond hair had gone gray but the curls and freckles were still there.
- What you feel when you're with is ... - began telling Stuart - ... I'm not going to beat around the bush ... not fair to you or you to me ... .I am one of the few left alive Berserkers and if I am not mistaken, the only one outside Britain.
He was going to continue talking about when Vincent was ahead.
-How old are you? .- Asked without delay. He stood with his hands in his jacket pockets waiting for the answer.
Stuart looked up at him from his deep green eyes.
-I was born on the Isle of Skye in 1818 ... In a small coastal town. I belong to the clan Macleod, whose history dates back to the thirteenth century ... My whole family has been chosen to host ancestral warriors, from the beginning of time when no, still lived in Scotland, nor, so we called. - Said it all in a tone that made very clearly how proud he was of it.
Vincent shook his head from side to side.
-How can you think it's good to be who you are ...? .- He asked incredulously.
-Because it is ... It's something exceptional, be responsible for defending your people, to the people you want from any evil that might hurt ... but, let's walk ... - invited him with a wave of the hand to do so-... what exactly do you know about yourself?
He was surprised at the question. He thought for a moment and realized that he knew very little about himself.
-That is a beast inside me that creeps into my mind and body, and to which I can hardly control ... and today have told me that due to my special features live much longer than most people ...
Stuart nodded.
-Well ... you know things, but do not know enough ... .- he said. He saw the forging bank was stuck to the wall of the hall of the house and told him to sit there. When did he continued talking - . It is true that we live longer than most, but in principle, that quality only have we ... You who have been created, have some of those qualities but not complete ... longest case a beast like you, it is about 120 years ... and because I was very lucky, most die young ... of violent form as you can imagine. - He leaned back against the back of the bench -. We do not live as long as I'm living ... but while I was working for them, I underwent multiple experiments and perhaps altered something ...
Vincent was allowed a faint smile.
-But then perhaps I will not live more than them ... more than Catherine.
-Possibly yes. ... or not, at least you'll have a good quality of life until very old age ... And tell me .. Who told you so? .- Asked.
-My boss ... my doctor ... He knows everything that has happened to me, and what I get. I did a study on my enzymes and from there have left these conclusions. My enzymes instead of going depleted over time, what they do in my case is regenerated. Therefore we get older slower.
Stuart's face clearly reflected, how surprised he was.
-Perhaps in the Hospital now have researched that way ... when I left, they knew what was happening but not why it happened.
-Why Did you leave? .- Asked interested.
He cleared his throat before speaking
-Because I have a weakness for women Reynolds ... in case you have not noticed. - Vincent looked at him without really knowing how to interpret that-. No ... do not misunderstand me ... I feel nothing for Cat ... but she's a Reynolds.
-I fell in love, as you can love a child 6 years of Rebecca and since then I have never ceased to be. I remember the first time I saw her ... was so beautiful ... and so young ... .- he smiled and his eyes tell was lost somewhere in the past- . Physically not look anything like Cat but his way to be much from her, in his way of looking, to smile, to move ... you're very lucky that she be with you .. I have given my soul for having her ... But ... - said sighing ... I was a kid when I met her, and then everything went out of control. She and Duncan ... and later when she left .. my only desire was to leave and. see the world she had described to me so many times and so, perhaps someday, might deserve her ... So when I turned 14 and came looking for "work" in England, I did not think twice and went with them. I never saw her again. - disappointment was obvious in his voice.
He folded his hands on his chest and he went on, Vincent beside listened attentively.
-When we ordered kidnap the wife of Nick, I had no idea who they were. I just knew I wanted to hurt us and we had to fight them, also because our cause was commendable ... She opened my eyes and tell me realized he was on the wrong side ... but it was too late ... Try to save her and for that I had to kill two of you ... and that's something I hate to do. I did just then, and the other day when I had to kill oneso that Cat survive.
Vincent did not understand not wanting to kill them all. They were bloodthirsty beasts sold monsters.
-Why do not you want to kill? They kill you.
-No ... At that you're wrong ... I never would touch a hair, unless your life depends on it. I taught them everything they know ... are my children and even by an artificial chemical process are Bersekers ...
-How Many there as they work for the Consortium? .- Asked later.
-When I left , 10 ... but I think you should already walk the 20 ... not counting Gabe ... which it seems is something special ...
Vincent change their expression at the name of the assistant prosecutor. He tried to forget it and get on with what they were talking about.
-This kind of submission that I feel sometimes, that's why ... because for me beast you are... do not know how to say...
"I'm the boss, I am the root from which have come all, I and others like me ... I know it's very difficult to understand, but can not explain more here, you have to see. You have to feel where it comes from that part of you that both you think hate. Your roots ...
"It would be great if you could come to Scotland with me ... You think it's a curse but it is not ... I never wanted to stop being what I am, another thing to use, that at certain times, I've done it and certainly not me proud. There would feel what it is to belong to something that is above what you are as an individual ... .- watched carefully and an affable smile crossed his face. In addition, you have special qualities I have ever seen in other ... We must go ... must know and must know them ."..
Although, that a part of it, began to be curious about this kind of "clan" that awaited him in Scotland, Vincent could not shut the side effects of their condition.
-Maybe that is something special for you ... .but there are so many problems arising from it ... keep in mind that yours is natural you were born like that ... but I do not ... the limitations to lead a normal life are huge ..
Stuart smiled.
-What's Wrong with having an extraordinary life?! .".. To help people the way you do ."..
-But they persecute me .".. and also ...
Stuart did not let him finish.
-Vincent, you have to distinguish two things, you and those who persecute you .".. if you delete them you're alone .".. the problem is in the other not you. If external threats do not exist, could you cope with being who you are ?.
Vincent did not answer.
I do not think...
-Why? ..Children? The fact that your children can have your genetics need not be bad ... They would be born knowing what they are and what their true identity, it has happened over the centuries, generation after generation ...
"Vincent did not give up what you are ... increasingly less ... Therefore we were so hard to kill the beasts of the consortium, because part of my" brothers "is in them like you. For that reason, Bob" hired " you, because I refused to be his hunter. "
-But now you've killed one ..
-To Defend Cat, to defend Rebecca.
Vincent rose from the bench and walk awhile.
-Why Bob is so afraid that might do harm to Cat? .. The more we know of Duncan and Rebecca have less clear, it was an irrational reaction that led him to become violent .. There were reasons ...
Stuart massaged his temples.
-Bob is always a bit drastic in his views. It is true that Duncan had reason, but he could not control his reactions. His Clan, his people were in danger .. and went Berserker ... he could not do anything to control him .. had to kill one of their own and that I completely destabilized. ... I'm sure.
He looked at Vincent's eyes.
-What hand is'? -. he asked, smirking.
He was surprised to talk about it so naturally.
-The left hand ...-Told.
-The Inactivity cause these tremors and your continuing need to control yourself that although unconsciously, you do ... .You have to assimilate truth in what you've become your genes once joined with the Berserker. You're not alone Vincent Keller, born in Queens, New York ... You are mythologically speaking, a warrior of Odin and have duties to perform ... I can assure you that there is nothing wrong with you ... Trust me ... When lsuperes that, tremors disappear.
Vincent did not know what to say. Everything that was telling him made no sense to him now.
At that time, Bob left the house. His expression was serious.
- Forgive the interruption, but I have to leave ... I will come as soon as I can, I advised of the death of an old friend.
Stuart got up and went to him.
-Who? He asked concerned.
Jacob ..
The surprise was reflected in his face.
- I can't believe me ...
Bob motioned him to be quiet.
I'll come when I can .. Do you know anything about Cat? .- He asked Vincent.
This denied.
-No ... Tess tells me that has gone to the police station to investigate a little, there has been an accident and died a few senators ... had marks on his neck very similar to mine ...Then she will come.
-All right ... I leave you ...-He went back into the house, as he picked up the phone and dialed the number of his daughter.
Jt was rummaging in one of the last boxes, when he found something different to all the others.
-This is a dress ... It's the first thing you see ... besides Rebecca's dress... ...
Tess approached him. It had extended the dress up table and sought evidence of violent death. The dress was a black lace dress straight cut, could be 20 or 30 years ... It was perfect.
- ... But that makes a woman's dress here? .- said, as he inspected carefully finding Jt.
He shrugged.
- No idea ... Separate the case of the other ... I think it puts a pair of numbers right? a letter on the front ...
Tess nodded.
- Itputs 78 ... and a R ... if you look closely, you'll see it's the same letter in all the boxes ... one person was responsible for all this.
Jt stood, again the feeling that something was slipping, returned to his mind.
-Are was the last box .- she asked as she headed toward the shelf?; look for all the shelves helping with flashlight, and when he would say it was time to leave, and would make a comprehensive inventory morning, noticed that there was something on the bottom shelf, was a much smaller box. sheçe picked it up and carry it to where Jt.
-Look ... Surprise! This was the background of one of the shelves.
The supported on the table. Jt opened.
Inside the small box only found two things. Two keys.
They looked at each other. They knew where they were. Tess was that took them. Jt stopped her.
Vincent said we were to approach no doors ...
She looked down at the hand that grabbed her arm and then came back up.
-Maybe you, will you listen ... I do not ... are you coming? ...
He nodded without hesitation.
They stood in the middle of the two, one was left and the other to the right.
-Why what started?
Tess went to the one on his right and put the key in the lock. It fit. She turned and the door opened a crack. It could not more. It had stayed stuck to the floor. Jt aTess pulled and pushed with all his might, gradually gave way.
They walked in absolute darkness. Tess turn on the flashlight and one wearing light wire was cutting the darkness leaving bits of what was there.
A table, chairs ... one folding screen the bottom ... And among them and all that an almost impassable barrier webs as thick as a finger. The powder could be cut with a knife.
Tess turned and walked away. A few seconds later she returned, bringing one of the great focus. Put it on the floor ... and light was made.
Nick was very uneasy ... Gabe had destroyed the entire surveillance system. They had been blind and deaf, just before you start to hear and see. It was only the locator that they had put in the car for now.
Al that time, Heather had left the Dakota building where he had been working, she said goodbye to a few people and called a taxi. Nick started the engine of the car and started to follow her. He prayed to go home, but it seemed.
He had noticed that carrying two bottles of champagne protruding from a handbag ... bad business. An idea flashed through his head as he was driving. Address her and take her with her sister ... did not like not knowing what was going Lowan's home.
They reached the building Gabe, saw her enter, but did nothing. Anyway, he would be attentive to anything ... and did not rule up to the apartment.
He wore two hours watching when he decided to leave the car and smoke a cigarette ... at that time not stopped thinking about everything that could go wrong ... what you get on the apartment dismissed it as soon realized that Gabe would know nothing else close. He should stay in the car and wait.
At that time, the garage door opened, a black car went out and took a southerly direction ... he passed to the Nick- . He had known then, was Gabe and was alone.
Nothing more to see him go, he left the car. He did not like anything he had come to that time of his house. And where was Heather? ... Picked up the phone, while on his way to the apartment.
Mark replied the other side.
-What is it? ... I am hearing Dana's conversation with the guard who takes her ...
His uncle did not let him finish- .
Mark ... that is urgent- . Prepare monitoring of Car's Gabe, I have a bad feeling ...- .-He entered the site, showing a plate of FBI the guard and went to the elevators- . Gabe just left alone in his car ... I want you to keep an eye on, while I assure of something ... .- the elevator arrived and pushed the button, coming up to assistant attorney's apartment ... - . You stay there for now ... Dana needs you.
Mark left in a second plane the Dana's conversation and moved his chair to the monitor where it appeared a black dot that was moving through Manhattan.
-Uncle Nick .. what I have ... is on ... west about to cross Central Park ... .- he said looking at the screen. . The point remained standing -. . Looks like he's at a stoplight.
- Do not lose it. . I'm going to the apartment. - Keep the phone in his jacket pocket and walked to the door.
He forced smoothly lock and entered. He drew his pistol and pointed forward. Nothing moved, not a sound ... he entered the room and saw the rumpled bed and Heather's dress above it.. .
-Oh My God! .- Exclaimed; off the clothes had an empty syringe. He shot out the room.
-¡Mark! Call Bob ! ... The bastard has done something to Heather ... We have to stop that car anyway ... I'll call from the car when you arrive ... .- hung up while the elevator began to descend toward street plant.
Mark without taking your eyes, black spot, marked the number of his father ... Damn! Did not get it ... . Where the hell he was? .. Could not wait, call Stuart. .
He picked up the phone on the second ring. .
-Tell me Mark, Is something wrong Dana? - Asked nothing but talk. .
-Not.. Dana .. no ... .. Uncle Nick Heather just called and it seems ... that Gabe was carried Heather's apartment and thinks he has done something ... The locator tells me he is now climbing the ... . toward the East River ... where he can ... .- before finishing the sentence he saw it clear ... he was carrying the Hospital -. . Stuart, I think that leads to the hospital ...
He could hear as Stuart talking to someone. . He thought it was the voice of Vincent. .
Mark, Vincent is with me; let's take the jeep ... .-he heard as closed doors and again the voice of Stuart. . Tell me where I have to go ...
Nick drove at full speed through the streets of Manhattan. Gabe wanted to to hunt Gabe, before caught south. It would be difficult, but it seemed he was not going too fast.
He turned and almost could see between the traffic.
-Mark I'm seeing him ... I think I can reach him before turn right ..
-I Do not think Uncle .. Something happens ... is accelerating ... I spoke again with Vincent and say they will try to intercept it, just past the detour to Hospital ... right next to the river ... you can go up behind them front. . With the speed of them, if we manage to stop, be able to take Heather of the car, but Gabe also becomes ..
Nick raced, was lost him. Gabe turned south skidding ... definitely knew that they were following. .
He turned too. He gunned the trying not to lose it. He left his left the building of the United Nations and Gabe turned to that side, nothing more pass it to take the road that was stuck to the East River ..
Mark turned speak.
-They've come ... are waiting. . - Said, referring to Vincent and Stuart. .
Well .. Just enter the river road.
Suddenly he heard a noise and saw the corner of my eye width a black Hummer he lunged to the right ... He could not do anything ... the coup was brutal ... He noticed how your body is moving inside the car until it was spinning ... When stopped completely shocked, tried to move but could not, something oppressed horribly the chest ... he turned his head, looking a reference to where I was when he saw the huge car again go to him at full speed ... He closed his eyes and thought of Mary and Kevin ... the next thing he felt was the cold water of the East River, trying to get into your lungs.
Stuart and -Vincent saw everything from where they had been placed to intercept Gabe. . The BMW has just entered the diversion, when they saw as the Hummer is carried forward to Nick, and before they could react viewed as throwing water. .
The Hummer turned as if nothing had happened and digested to them. Viewed as the car was half sink. .
-Vincent could think of nothing else but that Nick would be badly injured or even killed ...
Stuart was ahead of his thoughts.
-I Can feel him, is still alive ... but his heart every time beat slower ..
Gabe's car stopped and behind the Hummer.
Four beasts fell from him. Two were even stronger than those who had fought -Vincent two days earlier.
-Vincent ... we have to let them pass ... do not think about anything just think Nick ...
-But Heather is there! ... If something happens to her ... Catherine not we would never forgive ..
Stuart grabbed his arm ..
-Nick is about to die ... and Heather will not die tonight ... I guarantee it ... They are talking about me ..
Gabe came out at that time.
-Vincent Go away! You know I'm very capable of killing you right now ... Go away! .- Yelled. . His eyes turned yellow and his expression changed.
The hatred he felt for him, rising to levels that had never felt before. The change came without it being able to control it ... but when it was about to jump over Gabe ... received an order and your brain could only obey it ... He left me running followed by a huge beast in wolf form into Nick's car sinking in the river. Both jumped into the water.
Nothing more to fall of he opened his eyes and noticed as he could see clearly. He could see the car and Stuart swimming towards him. He did the same. When they arrived they saw Nick of unconscious of caught between the bars. Stuart them off of with little effort and Nick Vincent pulled away.
They went on protected by the pillars of one of the docks surface. Vincent of kept his head of Nick of out of the water and went away from where the car had crashed. What seemed security personnel of the United Nations building was facing the site of the sinking. He saw that Stuart was waiting for on the shore right near his car. Some stores glued to the river were hiding. It was perfect to go unnoticed.
He left Nick on the shore and began him to perform resuscitation. He threw his head back and was giving cardiac massage while you towards mouth to mouth. completely soaked, Stuart, took his pulse. Shook his head. Vincent did not surrender. He could not lose at the same time Heather and Nick.
At that time, Nick started coughing ... they put him aside to take out all the water.
Vincent sat on the floor. He closed his eyes.
-How are you? .- Asked.
Nick nodded with fingers and try to join had to lie.
-Can you breathe well ..?
Nick nodded again.
- Okay ... do not say anything ... Relax and do not move, okay?
He nodded again and closed his eyes. He put his hand on his chest.
Stuart looked at Vincent.
-You see ... just save his life ... there are good things to be what you are ... .- Stuart said.
He was not so convinced.
-How can you say that? You have forced me to to leave her in their hands ... Heather's in there. - He looked at the huge mass that was the building of Hospita l-. She's an innocent victim in this war we fight us ... If we had not come into the life of Cat ...
- They two would be in danger sighed like ... .- -. Vincent, this war is much older than you ... Stop torturing yourself with your responsibility, not have as much as you believe ... .- he got up and grabbed Nick, in her arms, was shaking. He went to the car - . We go home we need to know how he is ...
Vincent went after him.
-We should take him to the hospital ... My boss sure is there ...
Stuart looked at him.
-You sure it is trustworthy?
Vincent nodded.
-Yes ...
-All right then ... ..- looked at the road leading to Baker. Gabe and the others had disappeared-. It is time for us to leave here.- opened the car door and got behind the wheel.
Vincent stood at the door.
-We're soaked...
Stuart laughed.
? - ... And ... we will not die of a cold ... I guarantee it - he opened the passenger door -. Enter ... I'll dry the car ...
Vincent sat down and closed the door.
-Take off your shoes ... it's the worst ... We left Nick in the hospital and go ... Nick endures! We're on way. - Said, looking toward the backseat of the jeep.
Vincent listened. He removed his shoes and threw them out the window.
-It's not the first time you go through this, right?
-No.- Said curtly. And Vincent, when I have given the order to go help Nick ... was protecting you, you and Heather. Gabe had been willing to use it as a shield ... and I have caught you too ...
-But you ...
-I would have gone for Nick ... .-. He started the car - . Heather has a chance ... Do not forget that we have in Kevin and now Dana ... Nick had no one ...
"There is a phone in the glove box, pick it up and call your friend so has everything ready ... and discretion at all. - Warned -. Then call Bob ... has to know.
Vincent did what he asked. Bob was at home with Cat, waiting. Told him everything. He said he would take care, to tell her and someone who should know right away.
When he hung up, he looked ahead. They left the detour and entered the avenue towards the St. Benjamin. He took a deep breath before speaking.
-Okay ... I understand you, as to have saved Nick ... but, tell me how the hell he explained to Catherine? Or are you going to do it?
Stuart accelerated. He said nothing.
Evan left the lab to his apartment on the top floor, when down the hall he saw, Gabe, was behind a stretcher dragging an orderly. In it, what looked like a body, it was completely covered with a sheet. The heart skipped a beat.
It would not have been able to go for Cat after he had threatened. It felt like his whole body tensed as if adrenaline contained many times, threatened to make him explode. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply.
For now, he would just follow him and, if he found it was Cat would have no choice but to kill him.
A syringe with poison. injected into the animals that might work. He should not matter if they end up with him, well maybe that was not right; had to stop them before everything is out of control. But if had done something to Cat ... did not know how to react ... not think it was able to control.
The nurse, followed by Gabe was going from aisle to aisle, until the pavilion trials. Oh God! whatever was there, was alive, they were to become human guinea pig ...
He had seen what could be capable of doing and was dreadful ... They opened the door and entered. Evan stayed outside, looking, for small windows shaped porthole had the doors. The first was a huge room where about 10 beds were ready, all separated by curtains clinging to the ceiling.
Gabe drew one of the curtains revealing a spare bed. The nurse lifted the sheet covering the body completely. Evan could not see anything.
When the nurse, covering his retirement vision, saw clearly that inert woman, dressed in a simple white nightgown just lie down on the bed, was Heather.
The effect was the same as if it was Cat. Notice how all the fury he was capable out for their eyes, they did burn, turned around trying checked and found himself faced with Jeremy. Staring at him but his eyes did not notice fear, just absolutely sure he knew what was happening. Instinctively grabbed him by the neck and hit the wall.
-Why did you have to come? You did not have to see this ... I know that you told to them, and I can not let you do ... ..- squeezed more.
Jeremy gripped the hand that drowned and could only say:
-No ... I'm friends with Cat, I'm her ... cousin ... .work ... them ... I'm infiltrated ... let go ... please make ... no ... .nothing ...
Evan released him interested in what he was saying. His eyes returned to normal.
Jeremy massaged his neck and as soon as could breathe normally again, pushed to surprised Evan, toward the fire escape. They went out and closed the door.
-We Can not let them see us ... should not know that we know.
-And as you know? -. Evan asked ...-. just arrived ..
-I have warned a few minutes ago that Gabe brought to Heather. Down the stairs to the entrance, when I saw them across the hall ... and behind them, you ...
-I do not understand nad a-. Evan moved his bald head from side to side - . But I just want to know one thing ... I can not waste time ... Want to kill them all?
Jeremy smiled.
-More than anything in my life ...
Evan was thinking for a few seconds his blue eyes kept looking at Jeremy, as if to know through them, if trust him or not. Al smiled end.
Then we'll take well ... - he said - . Start counting ... I will not let their touch a hair Heather, though, that's the last thing I do.
He let the hot water was streaming down his neck to the muscles of his back and his chest. As down his flat stomach, slid by their English and came to his legs, was relaxing.
He stood for a while so, his hands resting on the wall of the shower of the apartment, as he absorbed everything that had happened. Upon arrival he had stripped completely in front of the washer and had everything inside.
When they got home of the Reynolds, the half-hysterical found ... Bob, I worry about Nick, first.
The poor man had 4 broken ribs, a small perforation of the lung and a good head trauma. Markus falsified the input part in the emergency room, putting any cause.
They let him treat you entered for drilling and monitor the blow to the head ... but for now it seemed he was fine ... The time that he spend under water did not seem to have left no sequel. Cat meanwhile, would not stop yelling that his sister had been abandoned.
Bob explained that it was something they could not control. His thoughts went back to that time:
"-Yes ... We had to have killed as we knew what he was ... - she told them. - Referring to Gabe Her tone was that of someone convinced..
-Cat, You know it's not so easy ..
- Not? You hired Vincent to do just that ...
Bob did not want to go out there and although it seemed incredible, Vincent either.
-'We had to have anticipated that he would ... - she said, her expression suddenly change. "
He was recalling the conversation while soaping completely. The water was still falling far above him, slowly.
She confessed that had left her a message,in the morning, warning him to be careful with Gabe.
He was sure he had read it and so now Heather was, where she was.
He put the sponge on the side of the bathtub and reopened the shower faucet water to come out with more potency. He was placed under the spray and soap was slowly down him body.
Cat's immediate reaction was to go find a judge to authorize her to enter the hospital to investigate. Stuart said it was silly ... never get. There was no evidence, "real" enough for it.
Still, without being able to stop her, she took her car and flew from there.
At that time, the apartment door opened. He heard footsteps and noises in the room.
He turned off the water from the shower and grabbed a towel. Maroon 5 song "Unkiss me" began to be heard through the speakers of IPhone Cat. He put the towel tied around his waist and left the bathroom.
He saw her jacket on the bed and the window of the fire escape, open ... Cat was, sitting outside. Wordlessly, he was over there.
He poked his head. She looked at him and he noticed that she was crying.
He came and sat beside her.
-Isn't went well, right?
She shook her head sideways.
-No ... .- her voice was a tranquility that was far from having. She looked at him and tears started running down her cheeks. Her expression reflected utter sadness ..-... has not given me permission ... you were right ... with what we have, is not enough to justify an order.
- Have you spoken with the captain? What did he say?
That the judge is right ... but ... .- her voice broke as she spoke - . I feel so helpless knowing what we know and we can not tell everyone ... They're monsters and have my sister ... They killed four senators ...
Vincent hugged her.
-I am so sorry ... we should have ... .- began to apologize, but she did not let him.
-No, no ... Stuart's right, you did well ... -. wiped her tears with the back of the hand.-. you did not have any choice against them and Gabe had used to Heather, I'm sure. And Dana and Kevin are there ... can be our ears ... Although, I also say to you that if within two days we know nothing from her, I think you go ... I will not need permission ...
-And I will come to you ...
Vincent pulled her closer to him- . She closed her eyes. They remained silent for a while- .
Will you say me whatever Stuart told you?
He nodded- .
-Tomorrow ... and you'd tell me what you learned at the police station, but now you get some rest while I make some dinner ...
-You ... .yes you should rest ... You pulled a man from the water ... .- look at him- . - . You're a hero ... as always ... no matter what you think ... it's what you are ... and the world would be much worse, if you were not in it ... worth that you live many years ...
Vincent smiled weakly, rose from the ladder and held out his hand. She took it and got up too- . They stood facing each other for a moment.
Cat rubbed her back gently as she hugged him again.
-I do not know what I'd do without you ... .- he said gravely- . Never forget that I love you ...
-I do not forget ... You are my life, Catherine ... I could not live if you were not in it.
They kissed and soon after went through the window to enter the bedroom they shared.
After crossing- . Cat pulled him toward her. She removed the towel from his waist. He was going to say something but she cover his mouth with her forefinger.
- Make love to me ... Make me it slowly ... and take me to where only you know take me.
He looked at her with infinite tenderness. He took her face with his huge hands and kissed her on the mouth, first slowly, then gradually increase the contact of his tongue with hers and her lips. Cat eyes closed enjoying the taste.
He undressed her while they were still standing. When he was finished, he ran with his lips and tongue every inch of her neck. She threw her head back as she hugged him around the waist, nailing her nails into his firm buttocks.
He lay back her in bed slowly, standing above her.
Cat circled his hips with her legs, as he penetrated her. She held her breath when felt him ... his whole body shuddered while the two moved in unison. He kissed her breasts while deepening a little more with each movement
The pleasure was coming slowly, enjoyed it as ever, and when it exploded inside her, felt came to that place where only he could take. She looked into his eyes as she continued to feel it, and saw that he was in the same place as her ...
What they was seeing, with mouth open in amazement, was a small apartment. No more than 30 square meters. It had everything a person may need to live .. The furniture, classic short but useful, were dark wood.
-God! To get here you need a mask. - Jt said, half joking and half serious. The air was a little rarefied, but could breathe without problems. For a long time the door would not open.
He removed the cobwebs with hands and they walked. His fingerprints remained marked on the wooden floor. Tess began researching for the right side and Jt, on the left.
-This Is a small charcoal chimney. - Tess said. He stared after the hole was in the ceiling - . I bet you it goes to the outdoor fireplace. A kind of rudimentary smoke output, almost a meter around this black ... When this to work ... would be horrible ...
Jt looked at her from across the room.
-Everything is getting used ... in NY is very cold in winter.
She nodded.
Then she saw a couple of cupboards. Plates, cups, trays and a drawer that could open a few covered.
Jt meanwhile, was inspecting a table that seemed to have served desktop. Were indistinguishable ink stains under the thick layer of dust. He saw an old inkwell and a pen. Beside a narrow shelf was filled to overflowing with small books with covers of black leather. He did not dare to touch them for fear of being rid on their hands.
-Here was living someone ... at least for a while, did not seem to be short.
He saw with large chandeliers hanging from them wax and oil lamps.
He removed the cobwebs with hands and they walked. His fingerprints remained marked on the wooden floor. Tess began researching for the right side and Jt, on the left.
-This Is a small charcoal chimney. - Tess said. He stared after the hole was in the ceiling - . I bet you it goes to the outdoor fireplace. A kind of rudimentary smoke output, almost a meter around this black ... When this to work ... would be horrible ...
Jt looked at her from across the room.
-Everything is getting used ... in NY is very cold in winter.
She nodded.
Then she saw a couple of cupboards. Plates, cups, trays and a drawer that could open a few covered.
Jt meanwhile, was inspecting a table that seemed to have served desktop. Were indistinguishable ink stains under the thick layer of dust. He saw an old inkwell and a pen. Beside a narrow shelf was filled to overflowing with small books with covers of black leather. He did not dare to touch them for fear of being rid on their hands.
-Here was living someone ... at least for a while, did not seem to be short.
He saw with large chandeliers hanging from them wax and oil lamps.
Just before reaching the folding screen Tess saw a closet. It was solid wood like everything else. It was big, very big. Tess opened a door, wearing gloves and discovered a lot of all empty shelves and open the other door and saw a hole for hanging long garments that was also empty. She closed and went to the folding screen
She removed the cobwebs that covered it and realized that once had to be beautiful. Small floral reliefs which roamed completely. It was possible see touches of paint in places, but had virtually disappeared the polychrome. Surrounded him and what she saw, let her freeze.
What it hid the folding screen was a large wrought iron bed covered by a bedspread in blues. Spiders had also entertained well into it. But what most impressed her was what he saw at his side.
A cot ... white wooden cot.
He approached her and noted that he still had the mattress and a small savanna, lush green wool blanket.
Jt had reached his right hand at the time.
-Who the hell was living here? ... And why was this cradle ...? .- Asked.
Tess was pale.
I do not know and I can assure you don't want to know ... who might be able to have a baby here ... and locked ?. - He shook his head -. Really ... I don't want to know anything else ... You better get going ... - she looked her watch- . Oh my God! She's very late ...
Jt nodded. It was true. The time had flown by.
Leaving passed next to a table that was placed in the center of the room. Tess could not help remove the cobwebs that covered it. She saw a pair of white porcelain dishes that there should be abandoned for many years. Gently stroked the rough surface of the table. Suddenly, she noticed some strange flaws with her fingertips.
She walked slowly those brands, and looked surprised. He took her hand to her mouth.
- Jt ... can you come here a minute?
He turned, when he was already out the door and watched as Tess was starting to get paler yet. He walked quickly to her, worried.
-What's the matter?
She pointed to the table.
-What? - Asked again approaching where she remained standing.
-'I know who lived here ...
Jt looked down at the place that Tess was pointing.
Marked by hand in the wood of the table, he could see them clearly ... And it all started to make sense in his mind.
"Let It Now" sung by Michel Bublé, filled the entire ground floor of Keller's house. Cat out of her kitchen to see how Vincent and the children had set the table. She did not want that missing anything. For a day that everyone would come to dinner.
As she walked down the hall, she had to jump twice to avoid tripping with toys that Michael was leaving forgotten, for all sites.
When she reached the room she saw that they had fulfilled their orders to perfection. The table for the Christmas meal was finished and in order, and open fire gave the perfect touch of warmth.
Christmas, austere as she liked, decoration was made by lights placed at certain locations, socks in the fireplace, they lived there until after the new year, and postal cards that had received from Vincent's friends and family who could not go.
The only eccentricity that had allowed this year, had been placed a few sets of lights on the porch ... Children can be extremely persuasive.
She turned and saw them sitting on the couch, watching TV. Vincent was sitting in the desk chair, talking on the phone.
Cat looked at him questioningly.
Vincent vocalized slowly: "It is my nephew."
She nodded. At that time, Vanessa got up from the couch and went to her.
-Mama, when will come the cousins? I want to come soon ... Vinnie does the new game that Santa Claus brought me, I know you will love and...
Michael looked at her mother and interrupted her sister.
-I Want Brian to come, said yesterday that he had asked Santa a truck "spetaular" ... firefighters Dad reads it?
Vincent, who was still on the phone nodded fun. Then he looked at Cat ...
She knew that meant that look. It was difficult, very difficult, but there they were. Enjoying a wonderful family. Little Michael, 3 years, ever looked more like his father. Their very eyes, their very captivating smile, and Vanessa, a little princess of six years, that reminded herself much when I was her age, but with incredible blue eyes, no doubt inherited from her biological grandfather.
She glanced at the house and had that little feeling walking us very occasionally and briefly, in which we feel what is happiness, always brief, but intense.
She took a deep breath and sighed. Suddenly a whistle oven!
-Oh My God! the roasted! ..- screamed and ran to the kitchen.
Vincent hung up, jump over his daughter, who was lying on the carpet, to see drawings A Christmas Carol by Dickens, who at the time were putting on TV.
He went to the kitchen accompanied by the noise made chains Marley, Scrooge's partner, as he climbed the stairs.
When he arrived he found Cat removing turkey from oven. She left above the top of the island and went to get some brandy to throw it over.
He watched while doing all these movements, demonstrating a mastery of your kitchen. Eventually after many frustrations and occasional call the fire department, she had learned to cook.
He went to see how he was going mashed potatoes. Cat went after him, after returning to leave the brandy in one of the upper shelves.
-All is well ... .- said removing spoon hands.- you, worry about what children are controlled ... I do not want to hear sound of breaking glass as the other time.- was carrying her husband into the hallway .
Vincent shrugged his shoulders.
-Before anything memories of Aaron and Mary ... and that was an accident, Michael lost his fire truck under the table and snagged his pants tablecloth ...
-Yes ... I understand, but we must avoid the accidents ..- Cat said, making a face circumstances.
At that moment, the aforementioned, giving the impression that he had telepathic powers began to mourn.
-Papa!Papa! I can not find the police car with lights!
Cat's eyes everything he could.
'-Run - she told to Vincent. He fulfilled her order immediately.
Michael, honey, do not worry, dad looking ... have you looked in your room ?.
The two started up the stairs while Vincent winked at his wife. She sighed with relief and continued the ritual of cooking time.
She returned to stir eggnog and pulled the mashed potatoes to be cooling off a bit.
When she was about to open the bottle of wine to let it oxygenate in the decanter, the doorbell rang.
Vanessa yelled from the living room she opened it.
The voices of Tess and Jt filled the hall, along with the screams of two children, Vincent and Brian, the twins surprise of five years.
Cat reminded not without smiling, the day Tess went to see her, with a face of tremendous shock, to say she was surprisingly pregnant with twins. Since then they called that "the twins surprise" and the surprise had become curly haired two children with the same face as his mother and the same kind as his father.
She left the kitchen just in time to see the coats left on the piano, had long become a makeshift coat rack, waiting to buy a real one, though, Cat, doubted that someday that happened.
Brian stuck to her legs.
-Aunt Cat ... Have you bought those as good chocolates?
She smiled.
.-Ask you, Vanessa, she is responsible for distribute ...
The child it being answered, ran into the room looking for his cousin, which, as she was teaching Vinnie, the last game for the console that Santa had brought her.
It was curious that having the same age, Brian always had understood better with Michael, which was smaller than him, however Vinnie, was mad with Vanessa.
Tess and Jt, reached her when the child was gone already and gave two separate hugs.
-Where is the man of the house - asked Jt.
-I suppose you will refer to Michael?
-Of course. - Corroborated her friend, smiling.
Just then, they heard footsteps on the stairs. Vincent down carrying his son standing upon the shoulders.
Hello Michael .- greeting his Godparents! -. Where is Brian? I want to show my police car again ... has brought his fire engine?
Tess took his hand to the small, and took him to the piano where she had left a large bag. Brian with his mouth full of chocolate walked toward them smiling.
He pulled the truck and gave it to Michael. They both sat on the carpet and there were no children.
The four adults looked for a few seconds and no one remembered seeing them fled to the kitchen.
-God! A quiet time ... .- Tess said leaning on the counter. Jt stood beside her and took his hand.
Cat took four cups of wine and poured the wine that just opened. Gave one each, keeping one for herself.
-For a brillant holiday ... Merry Christmas! .- Said raised her glass. Everyone did the same.
'-How for Boston? Your parents? .- He asked Jt.
-Oh! Well ... without incident. Yesterday we almost did not make any attention ... as there are children you become transparent.
Tess smiled, nodding.
- Has he fallen tonight, a tremendous snowfall, we thought that we could not leave there .- said them.
Well, but in the end you got it ... Who has driven? .- Vincent asked already knowing the answer.
Jt nodded.
-Tess ... ..- said pointing to her-. In these circumstances, I relied more on her than on me ... Moving on, Have you noticed-. - Jt said Vincent -... that you have fused a few bulbs porch?
This nodded.
-Yes ... by the way, that have lasted very little and have not had time to change ... I've been living all this week in the hospital, we had a lot of scheduled operations ...
Cat nodded as she gave a sip of wine-.
- I attest that ...-. And I've been busy in the commissary ... right Tess?
-Truth ... We have a case, very complicated, in the end, it may be a serial murderer ...
Cat sighed.
-I do not know what I would do if it were not for my parents ... they are taking care of kids these days ...
The sound of the doorbell made all three will look there.
Vanessa scream your heart out:
-They are the grandparents ...
She went to open the door to welcome Vanessa and Thomas Chandler, who laden with gifts, came dodging children.
Catherine and Vincent went to them for help. Vanessa being the oldest, was commissioned to open bags and start handing out gifts that Santa Claus had left at home of grandparents. These jackets were removed and left them on the piano. Cat came to them and hugged him tightly.
-Hello! .- Greeted them.
Her father kissed her forehead.
-You do not know how cold it does now out ... I am convinced that it will snow at any time.
The four children were caught by the hand they were the hall, to see their new toys and them, shrug, allowed to carry.
For the next half hour, to the domicile of the Keller on Riverside Drive, were reaching the rest of the guests.
Bob, Dana and Mark arrived with a couple of good bottles of Spanish cava and gifts for children. After the corresponding greetings also finished playing with them.
Cat looked excited scene. It had been hard to find, that Thomas was not his biological father, but had also been great, the ease with which all been been assimilated after the initial impact. And having an older brother, was a real luxury and more, one like Mark. It was his first Christmas together, but she felt so adored him, and certainly was mutual. The, feeling as she watched it slipped out of the meeting of grandparents and grandchildren and, taking his sister's arm, went to the kitchen.
He greeted Jt, Tess and brother in law, each with hugs and poured himself a glass of wine.
- Smells that feeds sister ... you already have everything under control?
She nodded.
-Yes ... just need to Heather appear and begin to dinner.
ark kept talking to her while Tess, Vincent and Jt had started another conversation about how to educate children without dying in the attempt.
I'm told that she and Gabe have left it. - He said as he grabbed one of the savory pies that were in a tray.
To Cat will change the face at the mention of her sister's ex-boyfriend.
-Yes ... and do not know what pleased me, I never liked for her ... It was, I do not know how to define it, weird ...
Mark nodded smiling.
-In The FBI, did not have any high esteem. It is a fairly ambitious.
The doorbell ringing again. Cat heard her mother got up and opened. A Heather dressed from top to bottom, red burst through the door.
-Good evening! .- Hugged his mother and then his father ..
Bob and Dana kissed her on the cheek. After leaving her coat on the piano, his nephews dodged asking her candy and went to the kitchen.
-'I see that I'm the last to arrive.
Cat thought at the time, how thankful to have such a large kitchen.
Vincent, on sight went straight on the attack.
'-We've learned we have forsaken the assistant attorney ... .- said smiling from ear to ear.
She looked at him with angry face.
-Not I see the grace ... any breakup is painful ...
-Yes ... ..- Nodded but looked it clear that he was happy to not wanting to know anything about his ex-brother in law.
Dana entered at that time in the kitchen, which took Heather to flee incriminating questions- .
He looked closely and could not shut up.
-there Is no Wine for older .- he asked jokingly, but very serious. He went to Tess and Jt, and embraced them.
'Your children are adorable. - she said them- . That Brian, me crazy ...
Vincent took a drink, let it above the island and poured a little of his other "mother in law".
Thank you "caballero".- said to Vincent with a wink. She approached Cat-. I wanted to tell you something before you start dinner ... not draw more theme, right? .. If you want to help in case of roses not fail to ask. Officially is yours but for something, we have all three in the FBI. It will be a difficult case.
Mark nodded to hear what her stepmother said. Cat smiled at the two gratefully.
At that time, the Cat's mother, Vanessa, entered the kitchen.
-To Me too, I assure you- . - Tess said. She sat up and pulled Jt- . Come out to greet the rest ...- He nodded and went after her.
Catherine, the children ask if the food is already ...
She nodded.
-Yes, you can begin to sit ... Vincent, carries turkey..-he ordered subtly.
He breathed deeply, while gloves set, opened the oven and pulled the turkey.
-Dana, takes, you shall bring the mashed potatoes and your wine and bread. - Told Mark.
One by one they were out of the kitchen to sit at the table. The grandparents took care of the children. In theory, the children of Tess and Jt were not his grandchildren, but that was just theory.
Cat stood in the kitchen and took off her apron. She was taking a last look when a strong hands grabbed her waist and turned. her. Was found herself face by front with her husband. He's rapt smile.
-Every year that passes is more sweeping Mrs. Keller ... - said.
Cat hung from his neck.
-Well ... would know that not tell you ... after two children, one is no longer what it was ...
Vincent kiss passionately as he grabbed the neck strong to draw her to him. When he had kissed along her forehead with her.
-This night, when the kids are in bed I'll show you how beautiful you look like me ...
She smiled.
-Okay ... when children fall asleep ...
-Yes ... we will sail and appropriate, short but appropriate music. - He put his hands inside jeans as she did the same under the black chemise he had.
And then, Bob's voice was loud and clear ..
- Pair of lovebirds stop doing handyman and bring a good knife to cut the turkey ... the kids are starving ...
Sighed both simultaneously.
-Sometimes kill your "other" parent ... has a knack for incordiar ... - told Vincent's ear, before separating reluctantly.
-I'm! .- shouted her daughter. Go. - she told him, to smiling, wearing not bad, but they were not intimates. . Now I carry myself.
She took the knife from the drawer and went to the living room. When she came saw everyone sitting at the perfect Christmas table, keeping lively chats with each other, and four children, who were given lunch by their parents.
He felt that loved his family and that she wanted to enjoy it more than anything in the world.
Suddenly, he felt that something was wrong, in that ideal image. No, things weren't ... weren't perfect. Something in her mind told her that all this was not true ... but wanted so heartily that it was.
As if all was ready, the living room wall that led to the hallway disappeared .. and a hole of blackness appeared at the cellar door ... she watched as the hole began to suck everything had in that room, first her mother, then his father ... her friendsher sister, Mark, Bob, Dana ... all of them were disappearing and when there was only Vincent, who oblivious to everything, helped eat his children an irrational terror seized her and started screaming when she saw that the dark swallowed her family without her being able to do anything about it...
She woke up screaming nonstop, while a startled Vincent, hugged her tightly.
-Catherine .. is over ... it's over ... I'm ... You had a nightmare. - He said.
She clung to him as if her life depended on it.
Vincent was, ... alive and at her side. He looked around. He was in her bed. Must have been fallen asleep after they made love.
-No ... it was not a nightmare. It was the most wonderful dream I've ever had. - she said sadly leaning her head on his chest - . It was perfect.
He stroked her hair for a few seconds, letting recovered.
-Cat ... Jt called. - He said after a moment - . He said, we have to go to the lab ...
She looked up from the warm chest of his boy.
-Why?
Vincent stared at her beautiful green eyes.
-He says that they found something that we could ever imagine ...
To be continued ...(Heartfelt thanks for reading me ... Please, tell me if you do not mind, if understood well ... my English is quite limited .. a kiss and a hug for everyone...)