Chapter 26
"So, where have you been all this time?" Jonny asked.
Seated in Temple's room within the castle, Jonny studied his mentor as the man paced the room. His face was awash with so much anger, Jonny was surprised that steam wasn't bleeding off of Temple's body.
"I told you, I was taking care of some business." Temple growled, eyeing Jonny with a sidelong glance.
"And? How did that turn out?"
Temple paused in his pacing. His fists rested on his hips and he stared down Jonny to the point that the blonde started to fidget uncomfortably. Jonny hadn't meant for his question to come off sarcastically, but it appeared that was how Temple took it.
Jonny slowly raised his hands. "Hey, sorry, Greg. I was just asking a question. I didn't mean-"
Temple sighed heavily then relaxed. "I know, Hotshot. Sorry, I'm just super hyped up right now. What's been going on back here?"
Shrugging, Jonny exhaled. "Not much. At least not that I've been privy to. A lot of people are amped up, especially after word got around about Kreed and his kid."
"Those fools," Temple grumbled and took a seat on the edge of his bed. "I can't believe Kreed was so shortsighted to realize his little game could possibly come back and bite him in the ass."
"So what now? Anaya is worried that McManus might talk."
"He might," Temple nodded while rubbing his chin. "But Anaya will make sure he's taken care of before that happens. From what I was told, the Germans are holding him. Anaya will get word to Yasimov and that crafty old Russian can have McManus eliminated from an entirely different country." Temple laughed as he spoke.
"He has that kind of reach?" Jonny inquired.
"The Consortium does, yes." Temple explained. "And once Nikolai disposes of McManus, we'll get rid of him. He's already talked to Intelligence One. He needs to be eliminated."
Jonny simply nodded. He wondered if The Consortium could get to the Russian behind the bars of the International Criminal Court's detention center, but with everything he'd seen up to this point, Jonny's money was definitely on Yasimov not surviving much longer.
Temple's grumbled laugh drew Jonny's attention back to his mentor. Greg stretched his muscled arms over his head. "I'd take pleasure in doing it myself if we had the time. I never liked Russians, Yasimov or any other of those bastards. But for now, I'll just have to be content that someone will slide a shank between the man's ribs for us."
Jonny did not doubt Temple's sincerity for one second. The man was dangerous, but Jonny knew that Temple wasn't a threat to him. Jonny looked up to his mentor, was starting to see aspects of Temple's personality within himself, especially in regards to him helping Andrew. Yet, while Jonny was confident that Temple wouldn't harm him, he wouldn't push the older man either. He needed Temple, just as much as it seemed Temple needed Jonny. They were in this together now and Jonny was determined to see things through to the end.
"So what now, Greg?"
Jonny watched Temple rubs his hands over his face. He looked tired. "I need to think some things through before tomorrow night."
"You want me to leave?" Jonny smiled and added, "Maybe see if Anaya is around."
Temple shot Jonny a smirk. Jonny liked it. Temple was relaxing. "Mind your own damn business when it comes to Anaya, Hotshot. But for now, I want to give you something. You've earned it and I'm glad you waited for me to get back."
Both men stood and Jonny fell in step behind Temple. Exiting the room, Jonny finally began to feel normal again now that he was back at Temple's side.
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Race had already started to regain a lot of his strength during the flight to Landstuhl. Blanket draped over his shoulders, he was seated next to his daughter. Race hadn't moved his arm from her shoulders since the helicopters had taken flight. The feeling of his daughter at his side, her head resting on his chest, her arms wrapped around his torso, gave him a renewed sense of strength and determination. Jessie had eventually fallen asleep in his arms and Race wanted nothing more than to do the same, but he'd never been able to sleep on military helicopters. He just didn't have the ability to shut off the switch that flipped on whenever he was the mode.
Glancing across the cramped interior, Race eyed Corbin as the other man spoke into his headset. He wanted to tell his friend to relax, but just like himself, Corbin couldn't turn it off either. Phil and the German Commander were studying a map that was spread out on Corbin's lap, pointing at certain spots along the topographical display while speaking. Race wasn't wearing a headset and therefore wasn't privy to what the men were saying. He assumed the Commander was explaining how Temple managed to escape.
Closing his eyes, Race leaned his head back for just a moment. When he opened them, the aircraft was landing.
'Huh,' Race shook his head. 'I guess I could turn it off.'
They waited until the helicopter rolled to a stop, the pilot beginning procedures to power down the aircraft. One of the Commandos slid the door open, allowing a gust of wintery wind to slice through the compartment. To Race, the cold air against his skin jolted him, reminding him that he was still alive, that Temple, in his desire to taunt and break Race, had wasted just enough time to allow Race's friends and family to find him. And now, he had to get back to his primary mission, finding and saving Jonny.
Jessie stirred in his arms. Gently, he guided her to the door. Phil and the German had already exited, but were waiting with outstretched arms to assist Jessie and Race down. Race accepted their help for both himself and his daughter.
Heads low, they cleared the spinning blades of their transport then headed across the bleak tarmac to a gaggle of waiting attendants. Within the group, Race saw Agent Matthew Velk. The young Agent looked both relieved and concerned.
The further they got from the engines of the helicopter the easier it was for Race to hear. Phil still had a hand on Race' shoulder, guiding him towards the doctors. "Phil, I'm fine." Race didn't have time to worry about his own scarps and bruises. He wanted to get straight to business. "How did Temple get away?"
He answered Race's question. "The Commandos discovered an old escape tunnel the Nazi's used when they operated that facility. No one even knew the facility still existed, let alone the tunnels that were still passable. If we'd had better intel, we could have stopped him."
Race nodded. It pissed him off too, but there was no use being upset about the missing intel at this point. They'd find Temple again. He had no doubt about that.
"Now, you have to get checked out. Get a shower and some food in you, Bannon." Phil added.
Race decided it was best not to argue with his friend. He'd save that for the doctors.
When they reached the group, Velk gave Race a nod, "Good to see you in one piece, Race."
"Despite Temple's best efforts." Race joked, but felt Jessie tighten her hold on him. He assumed she wasn't too happy with his humor at the moment, but he needed it for himself. It was his defensive mechanism against the anger that would rise within him whenever he thought about his former partner. He gave her a reassuring squeeze regardless.
"Estella and the others are here, Sir." Velk reported to Phil as they all headed inside and out of the cold.
Race didn't have to ask where his ex-wife was. The moment they stepped through the automatic sliding doors, Estella rushed forward. She'd been standing at the entrance along with Alena Stasny and Viktor Martinek, a man Race hadn't seen in years. Race gave Phil a sideways glance and a smirk in regards to Alena's presence; to which Phil replied with a subtle shrug and a grin.
Estella's arms were around her former husband's neck a moment later. Race returned the hug and felt Jessie wrapping her arms around both her parents; a strange family reunion taking place inside the American military hospital.
"Oh, Roger," Estella breathed against his neck. "I'm so thankful you are alive."
"That makes two of us," Race replied. He wanted to ask why she was here and not with Benton, but that could wait. He knew he'd get all the details once he was done with the doctors.
"Jessie," Estella exhaled once she separated from Race. Kneeling down she embraced her daughter tightly. "I'm sorry for the way I acted earlier."
"Mom," Jessie started. Race could hear her choking up on her words. "Mom, it's alright now."
They three embraced again, none wanting to be the first to let go. Eventually, Race heard Phil's footsteps. Corbin had been waiting respectfully off to the side with Alena and Martinek, but he knew the Director wanted Race to see the doctors sooner rather than later. Pulling away from the two women that meant more to him than anything else, Race met Corbin's gaze. He saw that Velk had stepped away, moving to interact with Jade who lingered off to one side. Race hadn't spoken with her since they were captured, but he assumed that Phil would see to the woman's medical needs as well.
"This shouldn't take too long." Race reassured his redheads.
Phil came over then. He put a hand on Race's upper arm and said. "Just get yourself checked out. You've got some nasty injuries. I'm going to go check in on Agent Roberts, but I'll make sure the doctors come find me when you're done. I'm going to see if I can commandeer a conference room to set up a makeshift ops center."
"What happened to Roberts?" Race asked. Again, he had no idea what the rest of the I-1 team had been doing in the fight against The Consortium.
Phil's look darkened. "Argus Grimm. Or Ezekiel Rage or whatever the hell you want to call him. He tried to kill Terry. Busted his face up pretty bad. But don't worry about that. Just go get taken care of." Phil turned to the women, "You two should go with Race."
The women nodded. Phil turned to go. Race watched Estella reach out and grab Phil's forearm, stopping the Director from retreating back towards Velk and Jade. He heard Phil's heavy sigh as Phil looked back at Estella.
"Phil, I'm sorry," Estella's eyes were low when she spoke. To Race it seemed like it was taking an extraordinary amount of effort on Estella's part to speak with Corbin. "I'm sorry I accused you. I'm sorry I hit you and slapped you."
Race took in the scene. Once again, the strife that was taking place between his ex-wife and best friend perplexed him. He'd thought that they had buried the hatchet, but it appeared that there was still lingering issues between the two. Race watched as Phil glanced between Estella, himself, and Jessie.
Finally, Corbin looked back at Estella and nodded. "It's okay. Don't worry about it, Estella. Let's just get moving so we can end this once and for all."
Before Estella could reply, Phil pulled away from her and headed towards Velk and Jade. Race watched then looked at Estella. He didn't say anything. He didn't need to. Estella's pain was painted on her face for everyone to see. Saying anything to her at this point would solve nothing.
"Sir?" A young nurse stepped forward. She was dressed in multi-cam pants and suede tan boots with a multi-cam patterns scrubs top over her t-shirt. A stethoscope was wrapped around her neck.
Race nodded to the soldier. "I'm ready."
"Yes, Sir." The woman replied. Gesturing towards a set of swinging doors, she said, "Please follow me. We'll make this as quick and painless as possible."
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"Someone's been hitting the gym."
Jonny grinned a little at Temple's remark. Stripping his shirt off over his head, Jonny tossed the garment onto a chair, flexing a bit as he did. "Well, there wasn't much to do while you were gone. And the girls seem to like it."
Temple huffed as he took a seat and lit a cigarette, "Speaking of girls, rumor has it you managed to find a time to get…acquainted with a particular redhead."
"Yeah, well," Jonny took a seat in the tattoo artist's chair. "It was just one night."
"Just be careful, Hotshot. These girls can be trouble. Have you been keeping up with the drinks?"
It was a strange question, but Jonny shrugged it off after a second. "Yeah."
"Well, that's good to hear. Just remember that it's for your own good to keep taking them. We don't want you showing any adverse side effects."
"What does that mean?" Jonny asked, but before Temple answered, the tattoo artist appeared.
They were deep in the bowels of The Consortium's castle and the cool, dampness in the air caused Jonny to shiver when the man touched his arm. He watched as the artist looked at Temple, then back down at Jonny's scorpion tattoo.
"Nice work there." The man mumbled. He was wearing a surgical mask and Jonny couldn't remember if he'd seen him before. However, the castle was large and he'd yet to meet every person within the organization. Many members served multiple roles and this man could very well have been one of The Consortium's foot soldiers, spending most of his time on patrols, guard duty, or out on missions.
"Thanks." Jonny grunted.
Jonny did key in on the plethora of tattoos that adorned the artist's skin, to include a number of places were the strange symbol of their organization was interwoven with his other designs, some obviously much older than others. To Jonny, that meant this man had not only been with the organization a very long time, but was a dedicated and loyal individual.
"Just give him the seal of approval." Temple ordered.
The artist nodded and set his tools to work.
Having already experienced the stinging sensation of being inked, Jonny braced, but when the needle touched his arm he still jumped a little.
"Stay still." The artist's voice was calm.
"Sorry."
"Don't be sorry, just stay still." The man responded again with an eerie calmness. Jonny wondered if he was high; he'd hoped not, but at this point it didn't matter because Jonny wasn't getting out of the chair until it was done.
Needle wiring, Jonny concentrated on his breathing. He closed his eyes, thinking about anything other than the pain that was flowing through his arm as the man marked Jonny as a member of The Consortium.
He didn't know how much time had passed, but he became aware that he could no longer smell Temple's cigarettes. Opening his eyes, he glanced around and saw that Temple had vanished.
"Where'd Temple go?" Jonny asked.
"He left." The artist answered while refilling the needle with ink.
"What? Why?"
"I don't ask questions and neither should you." The artist pressed the needle to Jonny's skin, continuing his work.
"How much longer?" Jonny snuck a peek at his arm when the man wiped away some of the blood.
"A couple hours. I do not rush my work. You want this to be perfect and it will be. So just sit back and relax. Temple will either return to retrieve you or you can go find him later."
With a sigh, Jonny let his head fall back into the chair. The wiring of the needle causing him to close his eyes again, his mind wandering back to a different time, a different place.
Plopping down on the couch with an audible thud, a long sigh escaped Jonny's lips. The roaring fire crackled within the hearth while the heavy snow continued to blanket the Quest property outside.
His eyes closed, his ears absorbed the soothing sounds of the fire. About to drift off to sleep, he was awoken by a hand grazing along his shoulder and down his chest. With a smile on his lips, he slowly opened his eyes. Jessie stood next to him. Her eyes full of hunger and lust.
"I was just about to take a nap." Jonny mused. His hand moving to slid up and down her forearm while she continued to stroke his torso.
"Oh, don't let me interrupt you then." Her voice teased, but her hand continued to move further down his body.
"Not an interruption that I mind at all, Ace." Jonny growled. He guided her hand down his abs and groaned when she slid it under the waistband of his sweatpants.
"Once again we have the house all to ourselves for the evening." Jessie stated as she began to caress him.
Jonny's eyes fluttered. Her touch waking him down below immediately. "That we do." He growled. "But maybe we shouldn't do this right here…in the living room."
"Why not?" Jessie grinned. "It'll be our little secret."
"Jess," Jonny started, but his words were lost when she pulled his sweatpants down, exposing him.
"Let's just start here," Jessie purred. Her hands pushed at his stomach, forcing him to sit up, directing him to where she wanted him.
Reaching behind his head, Jonny pulled his shirt over his head with a quickness that surprised even himself. Next he raised his hips, pulling his sweatpants down.
Jessie didn't let him finish removing his clothes. She was on her knees, her hand grasping him, her thumb stroking him. Their eyes met and Jonny saw more than just a hunger in those deep green eyes, he saw desire and love. He saw her need, a need to make him happy, to push him to his limits. Jonny anticipated what was about to happen and it was more than just sex, it was an intimate passion that coursed through both their veins.
When her lips found him, he leaned his head back, a deep rumble building in his chest, pushing upward and escaping his lips. "Jess," He growled. "Oh hell yes."
She increased her movements, delving into the act of oral pleasure, responding rapidly to the way Jonny felt against her lips, against her tongue. Running his hands through her hair, Jonny's fingers were entangled in her full, red locks. She sucked faster and Jonny responded by raising his hips in time with her. She was pushing him over the edge.
He moaned when she leaned back, her lips sliding up to tease just his head.
"I can't take this anymore." Jonny grunted. "Take your clothes off."
Jessie stood. Turning from him, she made a show of undressing in front of the fire. The blazing oranges and reds of the flames accenting her delicate feature, silhouetting her perfect curves. Standing, Jonny shed his pants while watching the strip show Jessie was putting on for him. He stroked himself in anticipation and the moment the last article of clothing fell from her body, Jonny was on her.
He pressed against her back. His hands pulled her back into him. His erection pressed against her perfectly formed buttocks. Jessie ran her hands through her hair, lifting the long strands high above her head. Her neck exposed, Jonny's mouth went to her neck, sucking hard where her neck and shoulder met. She moaned in response, her body pressing backwards into him even harder.
"Take me now." Jessie commanded.
Jonny didn't hesitate. Moving around her, his mouth never leaving her neck, he lowered her to the carpeted floor in front of the fire. Their lips met, their tongue finding each other and Jonny pushed.
Jessie exhaled, "Jonny, oh yes."
Jonny wasn't planning on being gentle. His excitement was too much at the moment. Pushing hard he rocked his hips against her. Pushing deep inside the love of his life.
Jonny loved that Jessie didn't hold back. She screamed his name with each of his thrusts. Sitting back on his knees, Jonny lifted her legs, his finger digging into her silky skin. He watched himself moving in and out of her. The visual pushed him even closer to the edge. Looking back at her face, he saw she was awash with both physical and emotional ecstasy. It made him wild. He kept thrusting. His rested her legs on his shoulders so he could drive deeper into her. His hands found her breasts, their firmness felt good in his hands as he kneaded them. He grazed his thumbs over her erect nipples. Jessie whined in response to both his touch and his thrusts.
He felt himself about to come. He wanted to make her come at the same time. Moving forward slightly, he forced her buttocks off the floor so he could find even more of her. Jessie inhaled. Her hands were on the floor, gripping the carpet, hanging on, unwilling to let go.
"Keep," Jessie groaned.
"I can feel you around me." Jonny teased. His hands still worked her breasts. He gently pinched her nipples. She bucked in response. "I can feel you getting tight. Getting wet."
"For you, Jonny." Jessie managed to say.
"Yeah." Jonny responded and drove harder.
Jessie screamed as she came. Jonny lost himself in her pleasure. He drove harder and when he was ready he pushed his hips against her one final time, burying himself inside her. His release was invigorating. He felt himself shaking inside her, giving her everything he had. Jessie moaned as he came inside her.
His seed expelled, he leaned back, allowing her hips to drop to the floor. Jonny stared into her eyes, the twinkle of the fire reflected in her gaze. Her legs slipped from his shoulders and he moved over her, resting his elbows and forearms on the floor beside her head, framing her face.
He kissed her again. A gentle kiss that turned into one of shared passion as well as exhaustion. He let it last as long as she was willing to have him. When they finally parted, Jessie's eyes rolled back in her head.
"Jonny," She whispered between deep breaths.
"Shhh," Jonny hummed, his finger grazing over her lips. "Don't speak. Save your energy."
Her eyes found his once again. He smiled as her face lit up with a beam. "What am I saving my energy for?"
"This was just round one of who knows how many tonight." Jonny answered. "The only question is, are you ready to find out how many rooms are in this house?"
Jessie giggled beneath him. "I'm ready to explore."
Jonny's eyes drifted up and down her body. His hands slid along the sides of her torso. When he looked in her eyes again, he grinned and said, "Oh, me too, Jess. Me too."
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Having been directed to where the I-1 team was set up, Benton made his way to the large conference room in one of the hospital's admin wings. Hadji, Agent Dugger, and Hadji's new I-1 bodyguard, Agent Reynolds were all in tow.
Benton pushed through the door, causing everyone in the room to pause and look in his direction. He hadn't planned on making such a grand entrance, but from the looks on the faces of the people that were all actively engaged in the search and rescue operation of his son, none seemed to know that he was coming.
"Doctor Quest, what are you doing here?" Phil asked.
"Benton," Race was standing next to Phil, the duo interrupted from a report they'd been reading. Race appeared worn. He had dark circles under his eyes and while he wore fresh clothes, Benton could see white bandages on his forearms and peeking out from beneath the collar of his polo shirt.
Benton saw his bodyguard hesitate. They hadn't seen each other since Pennsylvania, when Benton had so foolishly proclaimed that he wanted Race out of his family's life. Now, seeing the white haired man still actively engaged in the search for Jonny and obviously having suffered through physical and mental exhaustion, Benton felt like an ass.
"Race," Benton came forward. He extended his hand towards the man. "I'm sorry. I acted like an ass before and only now do I realize what a fool I was."
Benton watched Race glance down at his extended hand then look up into Benton's hazel eyes. A little smile appeared on Race's face and he took Benton's hand, but instead of shaking it, he grasped it and pulled Benton forward into a hug, clapping him on the back.
The scientist could heard the collective sighs in the room, every person there wondering just what would happen. Pushing back from his friend, Benton turned towards the others. "I'm sorry for making such an entrance, but I wanted to be here to help."
Jessie came around the table and wrapped her arms around her mentor. "It's good to see you again, Doctor Quest."
"Likewise, Jessie. It appears you've been doing quite well since you left."
Jessie nodded. "I'm doing the best I can. We all are."
Benton glanced around the room. He exchanged nods with Estella and some of the I-1 Agents. "It appears so."
He saw Alena step forward. "Hello, Benton."
Benton felt his face brightening. "Alena, what are you doing here?"
"Helping in whatever way I can to find your son. To find my angel."
Benton took her hands in his, squeezing them warmly. "Thank you, Alena."
His eyes fell on Jade next. He gave the mysterious woman a thankful smile, but she appeared distraught and unfocused. Benton couldn't help but wonder what had happened to this point in the investigation to bring so many people together.
Benton looked at Phil, who had stepped to the side when Benton had approached Race. "Thank you, Phil. For everything."
Phil bowed his head with a curt nod. "Of course, Doctor. But I must ask what brings you here?"
Benton saw Phil's eyes narrow as he looked at Dugger and Reynolds. While Dugger was a big man, bigger even than Race, he shied away at his boss' stare.
"I was coming with or without them, Phil." Benton stated. "So there's no point in chastising your Agents. They came with to protect me, continuing to do their duty."
Benton heard Dugger exhale a sigh of relief for Benton's backup. Stepping forward, the Cajun reported, "Agent Blake has taken on full time rotational duties in the GOC until this is over. She called in Milner and Pickett for additional help too." Dugger glanced towards Jessie for a moment, then back at his boss. "Milner mentioned something about wanting to make those responsible for his busted face pay. Of course he didn't mean the wily Jessie Bannon, but those that hurt her. We also left the guards at Doctor Quest's residence in order to keep up the appearance that he and young Hadji are still there."
Phil nodded. Benton watched the man's gaze move between Dugger and Reynolds. Finally, Phil looked back at his second in command. His facial features lightening, "That's all fine and acceptable. But I must ask you, Agent Dugger, who's taking care of Raven?"
"Uh," Dugger stumbled, obviously caught off guard by the question. Benton could tell the big man had forgotten about Phil's daughter's pet in Corbin's quarters back at the headquarters building.
Benton never thought he'd see a man like Dugger blush, but blush is exactly what the Cajun did. Phil looked towards Benton and Race and rolled his eyes with a smile, enjoying the brief lighthearted reprieve from the grueling legwork they had been buried in before the four new arrivals had entered.
Dugger grumbled something about his phone, then pulled the device from his suit coat pocket and turned away from his boss, shooting off a quick text message. Benton assumed it was back to Agent Blake to take over babysitting duties for the I-1 feline.
Chuckles emanated from the members of the group. Corbin slapped his man on the shoulder once Dugger was done with his message and directed everyone to take their seats.
Benton looked around the table as he sat. Assembled was a team of I-1's finest and then some; Agent Terry Roberts, given temporary leave from his recovery to join the group. Roberts' face was still bandaged in some spots, but his recovery was going well and Benton could tell the linguist would make a full recovery in time.
Next to him was Agent Karla Altine. She watched Roberts closely. Benton heard her reminding Roberts not to overexert himself.
Opposite those two sat the young Agent Matthew Velk. Looking stoic and resolute, he was a young Race Bannon in the making. Benton knew the man would go far within the top secret organization.
Jade sat next to Velk and Benton knew the woman was agitated with worry. He assumed part of her agitation was from Velk's presence at her side. She might not be a prisoner, but that didn't mean Corbin hadn't told his agent to keep an eye on the woman.
Alena was seated closer to the head of the table. Benton knew the man that stood behind her in a well-tailored suit was Colonel Viktor Martinek. Benton had only met Martinek once on a visit to Prague, but the man had a face and a bearing that was not easily forgotten. He might not be a bodyguard by trade, but he hovered protectively near the former Czech President, his face devoid of any emotions. Benton knew the Czech intelligence agent would not leave Alena's side until she was safely back in their country and his loyalty to the woman would force him to give his life to protect her if it came to that. Benton hoped it didn't come to that. He didn't want to see any of these people that were sacrificing so much of themselves to finding Jonny injured or harmed in any way ever again.
Estella and Jessie made up the last of the group. They were seated on the right side of Race.
Benton and Hadji had taken seats across from them. Corbin sat at the head of the table. Dugger moved to the open side of Jade and Reynolds stood back behind Hadji. He was still technically assigned to protect the Sultan and would do so until he was properly relieved of his duties by Corbin.
Seeing Phil was about to speak, Benton raised a hand, cutting the younger man off for a brief moment.
"Before we start back up," Benton spoke. Every eye in the room turned to him, giving the elder Quest their complete and undivided attention. He took a moment to compose his thoughts, then continued, "I just want to take a moment and thank each and every one of you. You have all done so much and I will never be able to adequately express my gratitude or repay you for what you've done. You've sacrificed so much of yourselves during this entire ordeal, going all the way back to this past summer. Yet, we all know this is not over. The sacrifices you've made, are making, and will continue to make mean so much to me, to my family. I will forever be in your debt, every one of you. I, just like all of you, want to see this end. I want my son, Jonny, safely back and out of harm's way. In order to do that, we have to stop The Consortium at all costs. All I ask is that we continue to fight this threat together. I am prepared to give everything I have at this point, every last ounce of willpower left in my body to see my son safely back home. All I ask is that you continue on with me. Let's take this fight to The Consortium. I want my son back. Please, help me get him back."
When he was done speaking, a long silence lingered in the room. He looked at the faces of those he'd just addressed and he was proud to see nothing but strength and determination there. Not one flicker of doubt was to be seen. Not one person there felt that they wouldn't find Jonny and return him home safely. These men and women, some he'd known for years and some only for a few months, were as devoted to the task as he was. He had no doubt they'd give it their all to find his son, to commit the ultimate sacrifice if it meant saving Jonny Quest. He felt his eyes getting wet. No one looked away, no one felt embarrassed by his emotional reaction to their dedication. He felt a comforting hand on his forearm; looking over he watched as Hadji struggled to maintain his composure. Benton placed his other hand on top of his son's and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
Benton locked his gaze with Race. His longtime friend simply nodded. No other words needed to be said between the two men. That nod told Benton all he needed to know. That Race Bannon would find Jonny and would bring him home.
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He heard Anaya sigh contently before climbing off of him. Pulling the covers up over her legs, he moved in a way so she saddled up next to him, snuggling against his side as Temple raised his arm to allow her to get closer to him. He pulled her against him and kissed her gently on the lips.
"The first time after coming back from a mission is always the most intense." Temple grinned.
Anaya nodded. Her legs still shook from the love making session they had just endured. She rested her head against his chest, her leg hooking around his, as he stroked her upper back lovingly.
He felt her hands on his chest, moving gently over him. Something was wrong. Scooting back a bit, he reached for her chin and turned her head towards him. "What's wrong?"
"Greg, I'm scared." Anaya admitted after a slight pause.
He didn't like the way her eyes shook when she spoke. "What are you afraid of, my love?"
Anaya sighed, "So much is happening right now. So many things are going wrong. I'm afraid…" she looked away for a moment. "I'm afraid of losing you."
"Anaya," Greg spoke gently. "You're not going to lose me. I promise you, when I see Van Brandt I'll have him up my doses. They'll work, Anaya. I know they will."
"I hope so, Greg." Anaya pulled her chin from his grasp. She rested her head back on his chest.
There was something else. Something she wasn't telling him. "Anaya, we've had this discussion before. This isn't anything new. You don't need to be afraid for me. You know that. So, tell me what's really bothering you."
Another pause. He could feel her breath rolling over his skin as she exhaled. Without looking at him, he heard her whisper, "Greg, I'm pregnant."
Temple tensed. "What?"
"I'm pregnant, Greg." Anaya stated again. She sat up and stared at him. "We're going to have a baby."
"How?" Disbelief bleeding into his words. His first reaction was to ask who the father was, but when he looked into her eyes, he knew the truth. It was him. "The doctors said that couldn't happen."
He felt her hands wrap around his. She was trembling. "I know what the doctors said, Greg. They said the possibility was minuscule based on your condition, but not impossible."
He shook his head at her words. "I…I don't know what to say."
Anaya lowered her gaze. He felt her hands trembling harder. "Tell me what you want me to do."
"Anaya, don't say that." Greg answered. He put a hand on her thigh, caressing her in an attempt to alleviate her fears.
"If my father finds out-"
"He won't find out, Anaya." Temple declared.
She laughed a little, but it was a humorless laugh. "How can he not? I can't hide it forever. Unless-"
"Stop that, Anaya." Greg growled. "Don't say such a thing. We are not doing that."
Her eyes locked with his and Greg saw fear mixed with love in her eyes. She was afraid; afraid of her father and of losing Greg, the man that she loved. He loved her too and would do anything for her and now for their child.
"We should just leave, Greg. Forget The Consortium and Jonny. They don't matter anymore." Anaya spoke quietly, as if she was suddenly afraid that the walls had ears. "We can escape somewhere my father can't find us. We have enough money-"
"I don't run away, Anaya." Greg stated firmly, cutting her off. "You know that. I am not a man that would run. I'm not afraid of your father."
"Then what are we to do?"
"Baby," he ran a finger along her face, tracing her jawline. He gave her an encouraging peck on the lips. "Does anyone else know about this?"
She shook her head. "No one. Not even my sister. I was late, so while you were gone I snuck out to one of the villages. I saw an old midwife there and she confirmed it."
"Good." He was thinking up a plan on the fly. "Let me go on this next mission. I'll talk with Van Brandt and get the doses. When I'm done there, I'll come back. I'll tell your father that I'm done. I'll dissolve my contract and cut ties, but I won't run. If he has a problem with that, well, I've faked my death twice already, fooling the best intelligence operatives in the world in the process. I can do it again if need be."
Anaya seemed to accept his answer. With a nod she said, "Promise me you'll come back to me, Greg. Promise me that and I'll do anything you say."
"I promise you, Anaya, I will come back to you. I'll come to you and our child." His hand moved to her stomach as he spoke the last sentence.
Anaya leaned into him, pressing her lips against his. Greg took her in, pushing his lips to her, his tongue into her mouth. His hands pushed the comforter away, exposing her completely to him again. Lips still sealed against each other, Greg moved forward, lying Anaya gently on her back. He hovered over her.
When their lips separated she proclaimed, "I love you, Greg."
"I love you too, Anaya." Temple responded. The soft tone of his voice contradictory to his rough and menacing persona. "Let me show you how much I love you. Let me make love you like we've never made love before."
"Yes," She breathed and spread her legs beneath him.
All thoughts of revenge and hatred vacated his mind at that moment in time. Greg gave all of himself to his lover that night.
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At just past ten in the evening, Phil rubbed his eyes. "I think we could all use some sleep. I don't think we're going to learn anything more tonight."
Race grumbled, but couldn't argue with his friend's logic. Since Benton had arrived earlier in the day, the team had been pouring over everything they knew, stopping only for short breaks to stretch their legs.
A few hours earlier, Roberts had begrudgingly returned to his hospital room; having only given in when Corbin threatened to have Dugger carry him back and handcuff the linguist to his bed. Velk and Altine had gone with him, leaving Jade to be watched over by Dugger and Phil.
"When we arrived, I made arrangements for rooms for everyone at the hotel down the hill on the air base." Pete explained. "Reynolds and I can rotate guard duty for Terry so Karla and Matt can get some decent rest. I think they've been sleeping on that tiny couch in Terry's room this whole time."
"Thanks, Pete." Corbin nodded to the Cajun. "Let's meet back up here at seven tomorrow morning. That'll give everyone time to get some much needed rest. If anything happens throughout the night I'll wake everyone and we can reassemble here. If we run ourselves ragged none of us will be any good when we do get a break. Is that acceptable, Doctor?"
Benton nodded. Phil could tell the scientist would have preferred to keep at it, but Corbin needed to give everyone some rest or else none of them would be effective. What Phil couldn't prevent was people going back to their rooms and continuing to dig, himself included.
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Race shut off the water and stepped from the shower. Moving gingerly, he toweled off and wiped a hands across the foggy mirror. He studied his reflection. He was tired, bags under his eyes confirmed his exhaustion. Wrapping the towel around his waist he stepped back so he could view more of his body in the mirror. A scowl spread across his face when he saw the damage that Temple had done to him. Bruises covered his chest, stomach, and the side of his face, each in different stages of healing. Temple had delighted in causing Race an exuberant amount of pain, evidenced by the slashes left by his ex-friend's straight razor. Temple had also burned him; alternating his torture with a stun gun, cigarettes, and electrical cables.
"Why, Greg?" Race mumbled, his voice barely loud enough to register as spoken words. "What caused you to turn into someone who would do this?"
Shaking his head, he knew he had no answers. It didn't matter. Greg Temple was lost. The man that he'd become was nothing more than an enemy to Race now.
Earlier in the evening, Estella and Alena, escorted by Colonel Martinek and one of the soldier's from the hospital assigned as their liaison, had gone to the installation's exchange and purchased lots of clothing and toiletry items for everyone.
Race brushed his teeth and combed his hair. Pulling the towel from his waist, he bandaged his wounds again before pulling on a pair of grey Army sweat pants and a black long sleeved t-shirt.
Stepping out of the bathroom, he joined his daughter and ex-wife in the small hotel room they were sharing. Every member of the team had been given a room, but Race had insisted on staying with Jessie and Estella in order to watch over them and ensure they were safe. Benton and Hadji were sharing the adjoining room. Jade was across the hall. Race promised himself he'd find time in the morning to speak with her; but for now the woman had given her word to both him and Corbin that she wouldn't leave. She was in this to the end just like the rest, for Jonny's sake.
Reaching into the small refrigerator, Race grabbed a bottle of beer, also courtesy of Colonel Martinek, and popped the top off. Taking a swig, he grimaced at the mix of the German beer's rich flavor mixed with his toothpaste. He took another swig anyways.
"Dad," Jessie started.
"What is it, Ponchita?" Race asked. He could tell she was nervous.
"I'm sorry if I did things that I shouldn't have. I just want to find Jonny."
Race set the beer down then moved to take a seat on the edge of one of the beds next to his daughter. His movements were stiff, but he ignored the soreness in his muscles in order to comfort his little girl. "Honey, you have nothing to apologize about. I understand what you did and why you did it. I'm just thankful you didn't go off on your own, that you had the wherewithal to let Phil protect you."
Jessie nodded and smiled a little. "I know, but, my actions put him in danger too. He almost died trying to keep me safe. I kind of feel like I forced his hand and that was unfair."
"Jess, no one can force a Bannon to do anything. And no one can force Corbin to do anything either. So, no, you didn't force his hand. What he did was planned out between him and me before I left for Europe. Don't beat yourself up over it. Just remember the things he taught you, the things I taught you. You'll need to stay strong through the rest of this ordeal for Jonny. But I'm here now and I'm not leaving again. If you need to talk about it, I'm here for you, honey. I'm always here for you."
Jessie gave her father a gentle hug, not wanting to aggravate his injuries. Head buried in his chest, she sniffed, "Thanks, daddy. I'm so happy your back."
"Same here, Ponchita." Race kissed the top of her head, smoothing her hair with a gentle touch. "Why don't you take a shower and then get some sleep. I'll try not to snore too loud in the next bed over."
Jessie giggled. He felt her give him one more tight squeeze before separating and moving to the bathroom.
Race watched her go. He waited until he heard the water running and the distinct sounds of movement within the shower before he spoke with Estella. He sighed, his hands rubbing over his face.
Standing, he retrieved his beer and look at the mother of his child. "What happened, Estella?"
"Roger," Estella voice sounded like she was about to argue, but her tone quickly turned from confrontational to one of exhaustion. "I was stupid. I got caught up in so much ridiculous self-pity and grief that I was blind to see what was happening around me. I walked right into Kreed's trap. Luckily, for me, our daughter was there to save me from my own foolishness."
"I don't want to argue with you anymore, Estella." Race downed his beer then took a seat on the bed opposite her. Leaning forward, he took her hands in his and forced her to look at him. "You heard what Benton said earlier. We have to see this through to the end. For Jonny. Right now all that matters is Jonny. Not our feelings towards each other, not your anger with me or Corbin, not your distrust of Jade. None of that matters. All that matters is finding and saving Jonny. Everything else will work itself out in the end."
"I don't want to argue anymore either, Roger," Estella breathed. "but I need to apologize to you. I've been so cruel to you as of late and my anger with you led me straight to Kreed."
"That doesn't matter anymore, Stell."
"Let me finish," Estella cut off. "Roger, I understand this is how our lives are. I understand that and it took me all these years to really accept it. I thought that when you settled down as Benton's bodyguard that things would be different, but the threats against the Quests never ended. But you were there to protect them and you still are. You're doing your job right now, to save Jonny. I saw you in Jessie. I saw her becoming just like you. That frightened me. It still does, but honestly, Roger, as scared as I am, I'm also proud."
Race blinked. That wasn't what he was expecting to hear.
Estella smiled a little at his reaction. "I'm proud of the woman that our daughter has become. That she's devoted to the young man that she loves and that she'd do anything to have him back in her arms. Jessie looks up you, Race, more than she looks up to me, but that's okay. I've accepted that. You're loyal and steadfast. You're a man that I'm proud to say is the father of our child. I'm proud that she has a man like you to look up to. A father that has taught her right from wrong and to stand up for herself and fight for what she believes in, for what she loves."
Estella, I don't know what to say." Race whispered. He'd never heard Estella speak so honestly about his influence on their daughter.
"Don't say anything, Roger. Just know that I still love you. I always will. For our daughter's sake. So, do what you have to do. Find Jonny and bring him back to his father and our daughter. But protect Jessie along the way. She's not going to sit back on the sidelines, I know that now. Please keep her safe. That's all I ask."
"I will, Stell. I will." Race answered. Standing, he pulled her up to her feet. His hands moved to her face, cupping her delicate chin, staring into her emerald eyes, the eyes their daughter had inherited. "I promise, Estella. I'll keep Jessie safe and I'll bring Jonny home."
He didn't let her respond. He kissed her. Kissed her deeply and more passionately than he'd kissed her in a very long time. He kissed her with more fire and passion than he had kissed any other woman, even the one that was currently staying in the room across the hall. He had feelings for Jade, but he loved Estella. He loved the mother of his child and he kissed her so deeply to remind her of that love they'd once shared, the love that had created the fiery and passionate woman named Jessica Bannon.
Race couldn't be happier when he felt Estella returning his kiss with equal fervor.
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Temple untangled himself from his lover's arms. Anaya stirred when he moved, causing him to pause momentarily. When he was convinced he hadn't woken her, he climbed out of bed.
Dawn was quickly approaching. He needed to find Grimm to ensure all was set for Greg's departure later that day. After that, he'd locate Jonny and brief the kid on the mission they were about to undertake.
Grabbing some clothes, he moved to the bathroom of his private suite. Greg ensured the door was closed before he turned on the light. He squinted against the harsh glare, but his eyes quickly adjusted. He stared at his reflection in the mirror. Things had changed. He was going to be a father. Never in his life had Greg Temple thought he'd fall in love, but he had, and in the strangest of places. He loved Anaya Zin with all his heart. Frowning, he suddenly felt bad for all the times he'd slept with other women, but no more. Those days were over. Anaya was the only woman for Greg Temple now and he'd shower her with all the love and respect she deserved.
Twenty minutes later, he was showered and shaved. He quickly dressed, then shut off the light before exiting. Moving back to the bed, he used the greyness of the encroaching dawn that filtered through his balcony windows to see within his chambers. He grabbed his holster and secured it to his belter, shoving his pistol inside.
Reaching down, he ran a hand over Anaya dark, gorgeous hair. She moved under his touch. Leaning down, he pressed his lips against the top of her head.
With a hushed whisper, he proclaimed his love to her. "Anaya, I love you more than anything on this earth. I'll come back for you. For you and our child. Sleep well, my love."
He watched her for a few more moments, losing himself in the steady rhythm of her breathing. With a sigh, he kissed her one more time before grabbing his gym bag and made a quiet exit.
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To Be Continued…