Disclaimer: This was written for the soul purpose of my entertainment. I lay no claim on Walker Texas Ranger or any of its characters.
Westfield Isle
Part 2
The Island
By: Janis Boisclair
jboisclair@rogers.com
Walker Ranch
It was shortly after midnight Alex and Walker had been in bed for an hour. A cool breeze was gentling blowing the bedroom curtains Alex turned restlessly into her husband's chest. He pulled her closer brushing a blonde strand of hair behind her ear before bringing his lips to her temple. She purred softly her arm naturally going around her husband in her sleep.
Smiling Walker relaxed against her closing his eyes trying to shake the feeling he had been harbouring since the Gages had left on their cruise. It was nothing he could actually put his finger on just a feeling of unrest that the two of them were walking into danger.
The wind blew gently again Walker's eyes popped open and he pulled himself to sit up in bed.
"Walker what is it?" Alex asked as her husband sat rigid beside her.
He didn't answer her right away instead he sat quietly listening as if trying to figure out what he had missed why he had suddenly heard Sydney scream.
"Just a dream Alex go back to sleep," he told her not moving from where he sat. She moved her hand to his back gently rubbing her palm against it. He turned toward her and lay down once again enfolding her in his arms his eyes staring at the ceiling.
Aboard The 'Martillo De Blarney'
"We will be at the island in an hours time Philippe," his first mate and right hand man Gabriel O'Shea told the captain as he entered the wheelhouse.
"Good the sooner we drop this cargo off to my brother the better I will like it," he replied clenching what was left of his cigar between his teeth. "This is a mistake this woman is going to be trouble my friend."
"Why do you say that? Anton has lusted after women before. This is not the first time we have brought such a cargo to him," O'Shea replied to his old friend.
"This one is different then the rest of them mark my words I have a bad feeling about this one," Martez repeated his feelings. This appetite his half brother had for women he could not have was unquenchable, much like their father's had been. He knew he was living proof of that. This Gage woman though there was something different about her and her husband. Neither was intimidated by the prospect of pirates attacking and both were formidable opponents when it came to a fight. It took three of his men to stop the woman and a bullet to stop him. Bringing this woman to the island was going to end badly for all of them.
~~~~~
Sydney lay face down on the bunk where she had been tossed slowly regaining consciousness. Her hands had been bound behind her back as well as her ankles being bound. A slow recollection of what had happened aboard the 'Precious Jules' came seeping into her mind.
"Gage," she whispered tears running down her face remembering how the bullet had struck him and he fallen from the ship railing to the ocean below.
She had no more time to think the cabin door opened and her captor stepped inside. "Mrs. Gage I see you are awake," Philippe addressed her.
"What do you want? Where are the rest?" Syd demanded answers of him.
"What rest?" he replied a smile spreading across his face as he taunted her. "You are what we wanted, you are the prize. The rest were expendable and well let us say the sharks are being well fed today."
More tears sprang to her eyes; she fought with all the fight she had left to keep them from rolling down her cheeks. She resolved in her own mind that somehow, someway she would avenge her family and she would avenge her husband.
"Now put on your pretty smile my dear we are just about to dock at your new home and your new master awaits you," he grinned at her reaching to grab her to haul her up to her feet. Instead he was met by both of Syd's feet shooting forward and hitting him in the stomach knocking him flying to the floor.
She drew her legs up again ready for the retaliation she expected to get; instead Martez sat on the floor laughing again. "My brother is in for quite a fight if he expects to tame you any time soon. We will try this again Sydney," he sneered getting to his feet. "Either you will cooperate or I'll rip your clothes from you and make you my prize. When I finish with you I will give you to my men and once they have finished with you I will sell you to one of the whorehouses in the islands to entertain their guests. Do I make myself clear?"
Staring at Martez a moment Syd nodded her head that she understood. She knew she would have to bide her time before she could escape and make them pay.
Going to her again he hauled her to her feet and lifted her over his shoulder as if she was nothing. Slapping her backside hard he laughed, "That's a good girl," proceeding out and up the stairs to the deck into the early morning light.
Anton Westfield stood on the dock anxiously awaiting the arrival of the 'Martillo De Blarney'. He had thought about nothing more then Sydney Gage since he had laid eyes on her that night at Michael DuBois' hotel in Key West. "She's special Philippe," he had told his half brother that night after giving him his orders to bring her to the island.
"And what is so special about this one?" Philippe had asked. "You have told me that about the last three girls that you just had to have."
"Wait until you see her brother dear," he had replied and his mind had wandered to Sydney once again.
He was very close to getting his prize he smiled to himself only this was going to be different. He was going to win her over; this was the one he wanted for a life long partner, to bear his children. He was going to win her love that he was very sure of.
"Anton," Martez called to his brother as he disembarked from the ship. He still held Syd tied and slung over his shoulder.
An Uninhabited Island between Cat Island and Long Island
The day was just dawning Elena Ruiz had spent most of the night in the water with her companion clinging to a piece of what was left of the 'Precious Jules'. She had helped drag the woman ashore and now there she sat on the beach, her legs drawn up to her chest, her arms around them staring out into the ocean.
"Miss Gage," she spoke to her former employer's fiancée, "we should go further inland in case the pirates come back."
"I can't I have to wait for Michael he won't be able to find me if I don't wait for him," Julie insisted.
Elena knelt down beside Julie taking hold of her hand she began, "Miss Gage, Julie, Michael isn't coming he was murdered by the pirates."
Julie looked up vacantly into Elena's eyes. "Murdered? By pirates?" she simply asked staring at the girl in shock. "You must be wrong, you have to be wrong," she told the girl adverting her eyes back to the horizon again.
"I'm sorry Julie," the girl began only to be cut off by Julie once again.
"Get my brother Francis he'll tell you that you are wrong. Sydney will tell you that you made a mistake," she insisted.
"Julie your brother was shot and went overboard… and the pirates took Mrs. Gage with them to their boat before they blew up the 'Precious Jules'," Elena tried to explain to her.
"You're wrong Francis can't possibly be gone…" she stopped mid sentence a single tear running down her cheek as a flood of memories began coming back to her. "Oh Francis," she called out realizing what Elena told her was true. She laid her head down on her arms and sobbed uncontrollably coming to realize that Michael and Francis were both gone and God knows where they had taken Sydney. She could see her brother's face and it was at that point she resolved to him and herself that she would see that his wife got safely home.
Wiping the tears from her eyes she looked at Elena taking charge of her life once again she asked, "Any idea where we are?"
Elena shook her head no. "There have been a lot of ships sail past if we can find a way to signal them," she offered.
"Hopefully someone will be looking for us before much longer," Julie encouraged standing and shielding her eyes with her hands to look into the horizon.
Waters Off Long Island
The night had been endless, the pain in his shoulder unrelenting, his fear for his wife preying heavy on his mind. Gage hung desperately to a piece of what was left of Michael DuBois' yacht. He had all ready resigned himself to the fact that his only sister and her fiancée had died at the hands of Philippe Martez the captain of the 'Martillo De Blarney'. That fact cut deep into his heart.
The bullet he had taken to the shoulder had only been a flesh wound but it had been enough to throw him off balance plunging him into the water below. Immediately the bullets had started to rain into the water and he dove deep under the ship coming up on the other side of her just in time to see Sydney being carried across to their ship.
Try as he may he couldn't find a way onto the pirate ship. The engines were all ready powering up as the last of the crew were returning to her. Suddenly she was under way and there was nothing that Gage could do about it but stare after her. She stopped and began to come around; it took him but a moment to realize what they were doing. He dove deep and just in time as the 'Precious Jules' was blown sky high out of the water.
Things had become a little fuzzy from there. He had been struck in the head by some of the flying debris. He remembered drifting downward into the ocean Sydney's face was in front of him, Julie and Michael were there, everyone was smiling the dolphins were there. They were back swimming with the dolphins Syd was beside him he was reaching for her hand.
Suddenly his head was above the water they were all gone and he was alone splashing around wildly in the water gasping for breath his hand finally grabbing onto a piece of what was left of the deck and he lost consciousness.
The sun was in the sky when he opened his eyes; there was nothing but water as far as the eye could see. His head was ringing he closed his eyes again his mind going to his wife, to his sister and he cried.
He didn't know how long he had been like that he had no sense of time, he grasped a little tighter to the board he was clinging too. "Please God," he began speaking out loud, "Please you've taken Julie and you've all but got me, please take care of Sydney." His eyes closed and he was unconscious again.
~~~~~
"Pedro drop your net in over the side this is as good a spot as any to fish," his brother Lorenzo told him slowing their boat down to a stop. Throwing the line over he turned to see that Lorenzo had all ready pulled his cap over his eyes hoping to catch a little more sleep. He smiled and looked out over his task once more suddenly catching sight of something floating in the water.
"Hey Lorenzo what's that?"
"What's what? If it isn't a net full of fish I'm not interested little brother," he replied not bothering to move the hat from his eyes.
"It's somebody floating in the water," Pedro exclaimed nudging his brother with his foot.
Lorenzo lifted his hat from his eyes and sitting up looked in the direction his brother was pointing. "You're right Pedro," he agreed starting up the boat's motor and heading to where the body was floating. Pulling along side he cut the engine and both men hauled him aboard.
"What do you think happened to him?" Pedro asked.
"I don't know but it wasn't good look at the hole in his shoulder. Let's get him home so Momma can patch him up."
Pedro nodded his head in agreement as Lorenzo started the boat once again.
Ranger Headquarters Dallas
Trivette was all ready sitting at his desk when Walker came in the door he walked right over to his partner's desk.
"What's up Walker?" Trivette asked.
"You've talked to Sydney and Gage since they left haven't you?"
"Not Sydney but I've talked to Gage twice," Trivette replied. "He called here wanting me to get some information for him about a pirate ship and Anton Westfield. He called back the next day and I told him what I knew. Why what's up?"
"Maybe nothing its just one of those feelings that stick with you," Walker began hesitating to tell his sceptical partner the whole story. "Could you get back in touch with Gage if you had to?"
"I believe so why what's wrong?"
"Nothing that I can say for sure," Walker began.
"You had one of those feelings didn't you?" Trivette questioned him picking up his phone at the same time.
Finally Walker gave in telling him how he had this feeling that the Gages were in trouble ever since they left and about hearing Sydney scream in the middle of the night.
Smiling Trivette told his partner, "I'll get Gage on the phone for you."
Walker said nothing he just turned and walked into his office.
Not ten minutes later Trivette was at Walker's door, "You aren't going to believe this Walker, all radio contact has been lost with the 'Precious Jules'. Shortly after midnight a distress call came in from her that she was under attack. They have an aerial search that has been up for about an hour trying to catch sight of her."
"Get us on the next flight to Miami," Walker told Trivette.
Aboard the Rescue Helicopter
It had just been past midnight that the 'Gypsy Prince' heard Syd's voice crackle across the radio. Her captain had immediately tried to return the call. The 'Precious Jules' never heard them the 'Martillo De Blarney' had all ready attacked her rendering her radio in operable. The captain had called the authorities who had worked all night to try to find a location for the DuBois yacht. Finally just before dawn they had traced from where and when she had left port and her destination, now it was just a matter of getting up there to see if they could find her.
They had been up close to two hours without so much as a hint to where the 'Precious Jules' was. The pilot Chris Barlow was just about to head back to refuel when he thought he caught sight of something.
"Hey David down on the island," he called through the headset.
David Gardner brought the field glasses to his eyes and looked to where Chris had pointed. What he saw was two women wildly waving their hands in the air in hopes of attracting their attention.
"I copy that," David replied to Chris as he began to put the chopper down on the beach.
The sand began to blow as the helicopter began to descend. Taking hold of Elena's hand Julie ran towards the rescue chopper as Gardner jumped down to help them a board. The whole rescue being over in a matter of minutes and they were headed back towards Miami Florida.
Westfield Isle
"Where would you like her brother dear?" Philippe asked Westfield as Sydney wiggled uncomfortably across his shoulder.
Westfield had walked around his brother to get another look at Sydney's face. Seeing her blackened eye and the bruise on her cheek his temper exploded, "What the hell happened to her face?"
"A little skirmish broke out she didn't think she wanted to come with us when her husband was shot and fell over board we had to how shall I put it… adjust her attitude a bit," Martez laughed.
Westfield was looking square in his brother's eyes his own narrowing, "I told you to take care with her," he snarled at Philippe.
"She is here isn't she, her husband is dead, Michael DuBois is dead and the sister is dead. That is what you asked me to do that is what I have done," Martez's voice had become menacingly low as he slung Sydney from his shoulder and dropped her hard to the ground.
Turning around to his crew he called, "Get her unloaded men so we can set sail again."
Anton had knelt beside Sydney lifting her up in his arms to cushion her against himself.
"Leave me alone," Syd cried out not wanting him anywhere near her almost thinking the captain's fate would have been no worse then having Anton Westfield touch her.
He nodded to two of his men who came forward and loaded her unto one of the jeeps that stood there and headed for the house with her.
"Philippe I'm sorry it's just that she is different she is important to me," Anton apologized to his brother. "Please unload the ship and come enjoy my hospitality."
"Yes all right Anton," Martez agreed. "I'll see you at the house. Go make your little friend comfortable, just do me a favour be careful she is a wild one."
"Nothing that I can't handle," Anton smiled turning towards his jeep to head to where Sydney was.
"You say that now," Martez chuckled to himself, "You just don't know what you are up against."
~~~~~
Anton took the steps to his plantation like estate two at a time. His great, great grandfather had claimed this island for the family back in the eighteen hundreds and had built the estate over the course of the next twenty years. Once the man had died the marvellous home with all its fanfare and glory was left to fall to ruins. It wasn't until Anton's father had brought him to the island paradise that any thought was given to restoring her to her original beauty.
With his inheritance and his smuggling operation Anton Westfield was close to making his family estate back to her once great state.
"Where is she?" he demanded coming through the door.
"In the suite of rooms in the west wing as per your order sir," one of the men who had brought Syd to the house informed him.
With out answering Westfield bound up the stately center staircase and to the west wing of the house stopping just outside the door. "All right Anton," he spoke to himself trying to hide his excitement before entering the room. He wanted to win Sydney's affection over but at the same time he wanted her to know that he was in charge and his word was final. He slid the key in the lock in the door turning it to hear it click open. Swinging the door wide he stood there looking in at Sydney who had been deposited on the bed.
Syd remained silent showing no emotion as Westfield stepped into the room closing the door behind him. He walked to the bed where she lay reaching down he caressed her cheek with his hand finding it hard to keep his lust for her in check.
"Get your hand off me," Syd growled at him trying to wiggle out of his reach.
"I'm sorry Sydney," he began again stroking her cheek again, "I know you have suffered a great loss but you will come to see and understand it was all for the best. I'll give you a week maybe two to grieve for your family, for your husband then I'll expect you to become part of my family."
Sydney stared at Anton pure hate welling unchecked inside of her; she could feel his filthy hand moving down her neck towards her breast. She gagged down the bile that was rising to her throat as she stared at this monster in front of her.
"I know it was a long and trying night for you so if you promise to be good I'll untie your hands and feet so you can refresh yourself with a bath and try to get some rest. I'll have a tray sent up to you all right?"
"All right," she agreed all ready knowing she would have to win his trust if she ever hoped to get away from this horrid island and this murderer.
Home of Pedro and Lorenzo Sanchez
Gage lay tossing his body burning with fever his mind reliving what had happened his sister's face haunting him, his wife calling him. "Syd, Syd," he would sporadically call out to her.
Rosa Sanchez sat beside the small cot watching the young man her boys had found floating near death in the ocean. They had brought him home to her to patch up and she had done what she could for him now he was in God's hands.
"How is he Momma?" Pedro asked resting his hand on her shoulder.
"I've done what I can we have to wait until the fever breaks," she answered patting the hand that had rested on her shoulder.
"Pedro?" his brother Lorenzo was at the door calling him. Looking up Pedro gave his mother's shoulder a gentle squeeze and went to see what his brother wanted.
"What is it?" he asked.
"Have you told anyone he is here?" his brother answered with a question.
"No, no one," he replied shaking his head. "Why Lorenzo what is wrong?"
"It is all over the village," Lorenzo began, "The 'Martillo De Blarney' took out another yacht last night blew her out of the water. They say no survivors…" his voice trailed off as his eyes looked beyond his mother to where Gage lay moaning out Syd's name again.
"We have to keep him hidden," Pedro gasped knowing the consequences they would pay if Philippe Martez found them helping a survivor.
Lorenzo stayed silent staring at the mysterious stranger. "No Lorenzo don't even think it!" Pedro exclaimed.
Shaking his head he agreed, "You are right little brother we cannot let Martez rule everything we do."
"Syd, Syd," Gage cried out again.
"I wonder who Syd is?" Pedro asked looking at Gage as his mother bathed his face again with a cool cloth.
"I'd settle for who he is," Lorenzo sighed.
Miami Airport
"Ranger Walker," the stewardess tapped him lightly on the shoulder, "we have a patched in call for you from the Miami tower. If you could come this way."
Walker got to his feet and followed the girl up front to where he could take the call. "Ranger Walker," he answered.
"Captain Jim Mathews Coast Guard Rescue," the voice at the other end of the line told him. "We have picked up a couple of the passengers from the 'Precious Jules' they are being flown in as we speak. I'm having a car sent to the airport to pick you up and bring you to the hospital where they are being transported."
"Do you know who it is? Who was rescued?" Walker asked the anxiety sounding in his voice.
"Yes an Elena Ruiz and a Julie Gage."
Walker swallowed hard, "Thank you Captain Mathews," he finally got out heading back to where Trivette sat waiting for him.
"Well?" Trivette questioned as his partner sat down.
"It was a Captain Mathews from the Coast Guard Rescue they found Julie and another girl…" he paused a moment before saying, "It wasn't Sydney."
Trivette diverted his eyes out the window as Walker explained about the car to take them to the hospital. "Was it the pirate?" Trivette asked still keeping his eyes fixed on the clouds outside the window. He was only half listening to what his partner was saying his mind was playing tricks on him he could hear the junior partners in one of their playful squabbles. He even thought for a second he could see his friend's faces in those clouds.
"I guess we won't really know anything until we talk to Julie," Walker absently said just as the seatbelt sign came on and the announcement that they were on approach for Miami came over the speaker.
~~~~~
Captain Mathews was waiting for Walker and Trivette in emergency where Julie and Elena had been brought. "Ranger Walker," he extended his hand.
"This is my partner Ranger Trivette," Walker introduced. Mathews offered Jimmy his hand as well.
"Julie say what happened?" Trivette asked getting right to the point.
"I was waiting for you to get here before we questioned Miss Gage."
Walker nodded his head in agreement. He leaned against the wall Trivette beside him waiting for permission to talk the Francis Gage's sister. Waiting to find out what happened to them in the less the twenty-fours ago that Trivette talked with Gage.
A young petite woman suddenly appeared from behind one of the doors, she carried a chart that she was marking something on before she walked over to them. She held out her hand out to Captain Mathews introducing herself as Doctor Cheryl Faraday. He in turn introduced Walker and Trivette.
"Miss Gage is going to be glad to see you Ranger Walker," Dr. Faraday was explaining. "She has been asking for us to get a hold of you in Dallas."
"May we see her?" Walker asked.
"Yes her companion told us that they were attacked by pirates, but nothing more and she has said nothing."
Walker thanked the doctor and turned to walk to her room as Captain Mathews addressed them. "Why don't you two go in and talk with her she knows you," he suggested. Walker nodded his head in agreement and pushing the door open walked inside with Trivette.
Julie Gage sat on the edge of the bed staring aimlessly out the window. Taking a deep breath Walker called out to her, "Julie?"
She turned and seeing the two men the tears began to run down her face. Walker went to her letting his arms go around he held her tightly.
"They killed them Walker, Philippe Martez the captain of the 'Martillo De Blarney' and his crew." She sobbed, "They killed Michael and threw him overboard I dove in after him. Francis was trying to escape with Sydney and they shot him, he fell in the water. They're both gone," she cried again.
Trivette had walked to the window and looked out blinking back the sorrow and tears that were beginning to surface inside of him. "And Sydney?" he asked turning to face Julie and Walker.
"I don't know they took her, it was as if they were after her." She paused looking into Walker's face and then to Trivette. "She is alive I know she is out there and alive. I've got to find her for Francis. It's the last thing I'll ever get to do for him…" her voice trailed away.
Walker nodded his head in agreement while Trivette asked, "Where do we start?"
Julie and Michael's Miami Condo
Walker opened the door for Julie to enter first she slowly walked inside her eyes roving over everything. They had only lived there a short while Michael had surprised her with it for their second month anniversary. She swallowed hard forcing the rising tears down inside of her. That would have to wait she had more pressing business, she had every intention of bringing Syd home and Francis and Michael's killers to justice.
"Make yourself at home," she invited going to the phone to check the messages.
The attack of the 'Precious Jules' had hit the news wires and because of Michael's notoriety and Julie's status in the news world a barrage reporters and business people alike had called curious to know what had happened. She clicked it off sinking into the chair beside the phone.
"Julie you don't have to do this right now," Walker began crouching down in front of her taking hold of her hand.
"Yeah Walker I do have to do this," she sighed wiping her eyes with her hand. "I have to finish this I'll never be able to get past it until I have got to the bottom of things. I have to know that these animals will never do this again. I need to know Sydney is safe. You can understand that can't you?"
Walker knew exactly what she was feeling he had been in the same position himself more then once.
"Captain Mathews says there has been no sign of the 'Martillo De Blarney'," Trivette interjected.
"And there won't be either until they strike next," Julie venomously told them. "We have to go back to where it started and that was with Anton Westfield. Michael and Francis both suspected it. Francis probably shared the information with Sydney but Michael was always trying to protect me. If my brother hadn't insisted that I know about the 'Lucky Lady' I would be completely in the dark about this."
"Why don't you start from the beginning?" Walker asked taking a seat beside her.
She began where Gage punched Anton Westfield in the mouth and ended with the little conversation she had, had with her brother on the dance floor. "I've always been able to tell when something was up with Francis even when we still had Mom and Dad. So while we were dancing I asked him point blank and he told me about the comments the old woman in the market had made and the fact that he and Syd couldn't shake the feeling that someone was following them. I would have told him he was just paranoid except Michael and I had talked about the same thing earlier between the two of us," she ended up her story.
"I think the first order of business is to pay a call on Anton Westfield," Walker stated.
"Where do we start? He owns property all over Texas not to mention about five states," Trivette added.
"I know exactly how," Julie grimly replied quickly looking up a number and dialing. "Yes would Mr Westfield be in please. He'll take this call tell him it is Michael DuBois' fiancée Julie Gage. Out of town for the next couple of days… when he calls in for his messages you tell him I'm still alive and I'm looking for him."
"That should get his attention all right," Trivette stated smiling at Gage's sister thinking two peas in a pod.
Walker stood looking at her shaking his head, he saw his young ranger living through his sister. "Any more ideas?" he asked looking at her.
Before she could answer the phone rang she looked at the name and picked up the receiver. "Hello Martin," she dismally said into the phone trying her best not to let the call upset her. "Thank you… can't it wait… all right I'm at the condo." Turning she looked at the two rangers, "That was Michael's lawyer, he says it is urgent that he speak to me before Lynn finds out." Saying that Julie fell silent in thought.
"Julie are you all right?" Walker asked her.
"Yes I'm sorry, I'm just thinking about Lynn she's Michael's half sister. When Michael's father died Michael inherited the bulk of the estate with a tidy little sum set aside for the care of Lynn and her Mom. Michael had jurisdiction over the trust…" she paused shaking her head.
All stood numbly quiet for a minute until Julie spoke once again. "I think we should start again at Key West. We can drive down and be there around four."
"Is it such a good idea that you come with us Julie?" Trivette questioned.
"What am I going to do sit around here cry? I've got to see these men put away for what they did to my family," she said her voice rising the more she said.
"I know we understand Julie," Walker tried to soothe her. "We didn't know Michael but we certainly knew and loved Sydney and Gage… you can come with us but any sign of trouble you look after yourself first."
She nodded her head yes as the door sounded and she headed towards it.
Trivette stared at his partner.
"What?" Walker asked. "She's going with or without us. Can't you see Gage in her eyes?"
"You're right Walker," Jimmy agreed.
While Julie talked to Martin Clay both Trivette and Walker took the opportunity to call their wives. Both had to admit the news they had to tell them wasn't very promising.
Westfield Island
"Everything you will need has been set out for you. Now you just relax and have a peaceful day of reflection and I will check with you later around the dinner hour," he smiled cutting the ropes that bound her feet and hands.
Backing out of the room his eyes fixed on her Westfield tried to imagine her body beneath that dress that she wore, her silky smooth skin laying next to him. "A week should be more then adequate for her to put things behind her and begin her new life with him," he thought greedily to himself his want almost getting the better of him.
Sydney sat in the middle of the bed where he had left her unmoving. She had winced at the sound of the key turning in the lock imprisoning her in the room but still she didn't move.
The sun was beginning to rise in the sky and there was a rap on the door the sound of the key once again and the door opened. A tray was brought in and set on a small side table the server leaving as quickly as he had entered not saying a word to her. She sat silently a few moments more before getting up and walking around the room. She peered out a set of french doors that led onto a balcony. She tried the door handle to find that it was locked sighing she wiped the back of her hand across her face.
"Okay Cooke get with it," she silently scolded herself, "Gage would expect more then this from you lets not disappoint him."
She walked into the bathroom and looking the room over deciding it was safe enough for her to take a quick shower. She started the water and slipping off her clothes stepped into the hot water. It was at this point that she let her grief overwhelm her and sank to the floor in anguish over the loss of her husband.
A plush white bathrobe had been left for her to put on. Syd put it on pulling it close and tying the belt tightly around her waist. She opened the bathroom door to find Westfield sitting there.
"The supper hour all ready Mr. Westfield?" Syd sarcastically asked.
"I was worried about you but I see you are adjusting quite well," he sparred back with her.
"Better then you think," she smiled as she replied trying hard to hide her hate.
"Maybe you feel well enough to join me downstairs for dinner."
"Maybe I do Mr. Westfield," she again smiled.
"Anton Sydney Mr. Westfield is too formal. Mr. Westfield was my father not me," he told her standing and walking towards her.
Sydney could feel her body begin to quake as he came close. She held her jaw taut it was all she could do to keep from going for his throat. "All right Anton."
He held out his hand to her and she forced herself to take it. Walking with him he led her to the wardrobe and pulled open the doors to reveal numerous beautiful gowns. He thumbed through them for a few moments finally pulling out a form fitting red backless gown.
"This should do quite nicely," he smiled again handing it to her. "Dinner is at eight be ready.
"All right," she answered as he took her hand bringing it to his lips, the same jester he had made the fateful night she had met him. He turned and walked out the door. As the key turned in the lock again Sydney made a dash back into the bathroom dropping to the floor to be sick.
~~~~~
At exactly eight o'clock the key turned in the lock. Sydney sat on the edge of the bed her hands trembling knowing this was to be a performance far superior to anything she had ever done undercover. "Gage," she whispered, "I hope you're still watching my back."
Sydney stood up and the door opened wide to reveal her jailer standing there. "Anton," she forced herself to smile. He in turn offered his arm to her and she came forward looping her hand through his arm.
"You look radiant my dear," he told her.
"Thank you I tried to cover the bruise…" her voice trailed away.
"It will heal my dear and you will look more beautiful then ever."
"Anton my face must be as red as the dress," she chided him.
"The colour becomes you I must remember that when I shop for you."
He escorted her down the stairs and into the dining room pulling her chair out for her. While Anton made small talk Sydney took in every detail of the room. She intended to know every inch of the house and the island she intended to have her revenge and make her escape.
"Sydney?" Anton asked.
"I'm sorry Anton I guess I'm just not as attentive as I thought I could be.
"That understandable Honey we'll make it an early night."
Her flesh began to crawl as he used the term of endearment that Gage had so often used when he had spoken intimately with her. "Do you think we maybe take in a little fresh air?" Syd forced herself to ask.
"Not tonight my dear I believe you need your rest. There will be lots of time for walks around the island," he told her reaching for her hand.
"You may be right Anton I am quite tired," she agreed with him.
"I thought as much," he smiled. "If you are finished I'll escort you back to your room." Without waiting for her answer Westfield was on his feet moving to behind her chair hand on her elbow to help her up.
Smiling slightly she stood up and as Westfield kept his hand on her elbow she walked from the dining room and back upstairs with him. Nearing her room they paused he putting his hand on her cheek. Syd could feel the panic rising in her as her hand made an involuntary move to his. "Anton please it's too soon," she whispered, "I need a little more time."
"Of course you do my dear I understand," he replied letting his fingers caress her neck before drawing his hand back. "Sleep well Sydney," he told her before closing and locking the door behind her.
Hearing the lock flip closed Sydney ran to the bathroom and turned the shower on. Ripping off the clothes almost literally she stepped into the hot water and began scrubbing her skin any place Westfield had touched her, scrubbing until her skin was almost raw. Finally when she thought the scent of his cologne had been washed down the drain and only then did she shut the water off.
~~~~~
Westfield had gone downstairs and walked into the drawing room where his brother sat reclined with a brandy in one hand and a cigar in the other.
"And how is our little Sydney tonight brother dear?" Philippe asked.
"Beautiful and exquisite. Everything I had hoped she would be," he replied.
Philippe chucked out loud, "what ever you say Anton, but don't forget the words conniving and deadly when you talk about her." He held his brandy snifter up in salute to his words.
"She is gentle as a kitten Philippe," Westfield stated ignoring Martez's comments
"You think now Anton but remember my words when she slices your heart out," he replied laughing loudly.
Home of Pedro and Lorenzo Sanchez
It had been a couple of hours since Gage had called out for Sydney instead he lay unmoving finally resting in sleep. Rosa Sanchez had just risen to stretch her legs when suddenly Gage's eyes blinked open to the unfamiliar surroundings. Seeing the older woman he tried to speak the sound catching in his parched throat his words coming out in a hoarse whisper, "Where am… I?"
Hearing him Rosa quickly turned, "You are awake," she simply stated going to where he lay.
"Where am I?" he tried again.
Rosa laid her hands on his shoulders gently holding him against the pillow. "You rest," she ordered, "you have had quite an ordeal."
"Am I the only one here?" he asked his hopes dashing when she shook her head yes.
"You are awake?" Lorenzo asked from the doorway as Gage stared blankly at him. "Can you tell us what happened?"
Rosa had sat on the edge of the cot and was helping Gage to bring a cool drink of water to his lips.
Once again he tried to sit up this time with Lorenzo's help he accomplished it. "Where am I?" he pleaded to know.
"You're in our village my brother and I pulled you out of the ocean when we were fishing. Can you tell us what happened to you?"
Gage closed his eyes the recollections of what had happened coming back to him. He sat silent for a few minutes more before he began his story. "We were attacked by another ship," he paused unable to go on for a moment. "They killed my sister and her fiancée," he managed his eyes going towards the ceiling as he fought the emotion that was surfacing, "they shot me and I fell into the water, they left me for dead. They took my wife onboard their ship before blowing ours up. She's still alive and I've got to find her." Gage was throwing back the blanket trying to get up he needed desperately to get to Syd.
Lorenzo moved forward holding him as he struggled to get up. "Slow down friend you are in no shape to go any where at the moment. Do you know who these people were?" he asked almost afraid to hear Gage's answer.
"Philippe Martez and his ship the 'Martillo De Blarney'," Gage spoke with a certain vengeance in his voice. A vengeance Lorenzo felt sure would probably get him killed.
At the mention of Martez and his ship Rosa Sanchez had immediately moved away from Gage and stood against the far wall she had crossed herself and lapsed quietly into prayer for Gage and her family asking God to be merciful.
"Then it is true?" Pedro asked from the doorway.
"What's true?" Gage asked looking to where Pedro stood.
"It is all over our village," Lorenzo paused adding, "Martez's village."
Gage looked into Lorenzo's eyes as he heard his words.
Pedro took up the story from there, "Martez thinks he owns us he puts in at the village to hide out and do repairs to his ship. While he is here he and his men take what they want and god help the man who stands up to him."
"Has he come back here? Did he bring my wife here?" Gage fired the questions at them hoping beyond hope that she could be that close.
"If he has your wife he wouldn't come back to this island," Pedro told him looking towards his brother for help to explain.
"Friend if Martez has taken your wife it is for only one reason and that is because his brother Anton Westfield has lusted for her and Martez has taken her to deliver to him. They will be at Westfield Isle," Lorenzo explained to Gage.
"Can you get me to Westfield Isle?" Gage asked his only thoughts being Sydney.
"Friend we can't even let anyone know you are here if they found out that you survived the attack and we had helped you…" Lorenzo's voice trailed off.
"Then you have to help me get away from here. Help me to get to Westfield Isle so I can rescue my wife," Gage was pleading.
"You need to rest and regain your strength you can't help her like this."
Rosa had gone to the kitchen and came back now with a bowl of soup that she offered to Gage.
"I can't.." his eyes rolled towards the ceiling trying to hold back the tears stinging his eyes.
"If you want to go to that island you have to gather your strength you need to eat," Pedro encouraged.
"You're right," Gage resolved taking the food that was offered.
Key West
Julie, Walker and Trivette had all piled into Michael's SUV and with Walker driving headed south towards Key West. Julie had called ahead reserving rooms for the three of them and she let the rangers know. All three sat silently wrapped in their thoughts still unable to believe what had happened to their friends and loved ones.
"Miss Gage," the elderly doorman cried holding the door open as she approached with Walker and Trivette, "Are you all right? I can't believe what's happened." He had taken hold of Julie's hand his own personal grief and loss showing through. "If there is anything at all I can do…"
"Sam thank you for your concern you don't know how I appreciate it. It means a lot," she managed trying to smile through newly forming tears.
"Miss Lynn is here," he told her, "she's in Mr. DuBois office."
Closing her eyes for a moment Julie murmured, "Just what I need. Thanks Sam for letting me know."
"You're welcome Miss. Gage."
"Problem Julie?" Trivette asked.
"Michael's stepsister that's what Martin Clay came to see me about. She is just assuming that she will be taking over everything, which isn't the case. The money doesn't mean anything to me now that the people aren't here to share it with…" she got out Walker letting her lean on him again.
"The money wasn't left to her I take it?" Walker questioned.
Julie shook her head, "It's been divided up among myself and two aunts his father's sisters. Lynn and her mother keep their trust and I administer over it. She's here and in Michael's office."
"Did you want us to go with you to speak to her?" Walker asked.
Julie shook her head no. "Let's just get our room keys I'll call Martin he can deal with her we have more pressing business."
They made there way to the front desk and Julie asked for the keys. "I'm sorry Miss Gage but Miss DuBois cancelled your rooms. She said you could share some smaller ones."
"Tonya we will take our original rooms. Miss DuBois has no authority here," Julie calmly told her.
"She had her bags moved into your suite."
Before Julie could say anything the office door opened and Lynn walked out. "Julie I hope you realize that your status around here has changed now that you don't have Michael to wait on you hand and foot."
"Lynn do you care at all that Michael is gone?"
"And that from a gold digger," Lynn snickered.
"Obviously you haven't spoken with Michael's lawyer," Walker stepped in, "Nor do you know anything about what is in Michael's will.
"Lynn you are right my status around here has changed Michael left the hotel to me because it is a place with both loved so much. If taking our room is that important to you then you should have it. I will extend the same privileges to you as Michael always did," Julie finished.
Lynn leaned across the desk, "You little liar how dare you speak to me like that," she spit out at Julie. "You are not going to see one penny of the DuBois fortune."
"Lynn all I want is to see Michael and Francis' killers brought to justice and my sister-in-law found," Julie told her snatching up the keys that had been set on the desk turning to back to Walker and Trivette she handed them each one.
"Don't you turn your back on me Julie Gage," Lynn screamed after her as Julie walked with Walker and Trivette and got on the elevator.
"You know I don't care about the money I just want them back," Julie cried as the elevator doors closed.
"We know that Julie," Trivette nodded as he spoke and Walker took her hand.
~~~~~
The next morning the three of them met in the restaurant where they sat going through the motions of eating.
"Michael and I got up around five and went down to the boat," Julie was explaining, "then Michael sent the car back for Sydney and Francis for seven. As soon as they got there they came aboard we set sail.
"All right let's do this again," Walker said, as they got ready to leave. "We'll walk through the whole thing again and see if anything comes to mind.
Both Julie and Trivette nodded their agreement and the trio began towards the door. "Oh my God," Julie suddenly uttered taking off as if she had been struck by lightening.
"What the…" Trivette muttered as he and Walker took off behind her. They found her outside the hotel grasping the arm of a young woman holding tight so she couldn't slip away.
"Let go of me you crazy woman," the girl was shouting at her.
While Julie shouted back just as loudly, "Just tell me where you got it."
"Got what Julie? What is it?" Walker was questioning as he caught up to the two women.
"She's crazy," the woman shouted her eyes fixed on Julie as she tried to get out of her grasp.
"She has Sydney's barrette," Julie countered.
"You're crazy, it's mine and I don't know any Sydney."
Julie was not to be put off Sydney had showed her the ivory and gold barrette Francis had bought for her hair when she had gotten her hair braided. It was an expensive piece and very unusual, she knew her brother had paid a lot for it. "When and where did you get it?" Julie held her arm tight waiting for answers.
"Miss if you could just answer the questions I'm sure this can all be cleared up very easily," Walker interjected as Trivette took hold of Julie's hand getting her to ease up a little.
Pulling away from Julie the girl defiantly looked at her before answering, "I got it last night from my boyfriend Zeke McCall."
"Is your boyfriend in Key West now?" Julie jumped in again.
"No he left this morning on business."
Julie turned and walked away with Walker close behind her as Trivette explained who they were and that the barrette may have a connection with a robbery kidnapping.
As he put his hand on Julie's shoulder she swung around to face him. "Walker that barrette is Sydney's Francis bought it for her in the market in Nassau."
"There isn't a chance there is more then one barrette out there is there?" Walker asked.
"You might have got me to believe that except the boyfriend Zeke McCall is high up in the Westfield organization," Julie revealed convincing Walker more that Julie was right. "Francis bought it from this old woman who warned him that there was someone evil watching them and especially Sydney."
"I think maybe we should get to Nassau and see exactly what this woman meant by that," Walker stated as his partner walked towards him. "Trivette," he addressed him, "see what you can do about having this Zeke McCall brought in for questioning."
Jimmy was all ready pulling his phone and making the call.
Nassau Bahamas
The plane had touched down just over an hour ago and all ready Julie, Walker and Trivette were headed through the busy Straw Market. "It was just down this way," Julie pointed as she led them towards the old woman's booth. Suddenly she caught sight of the woman, similarly dressed in a brightly coloured skirt, straw hat and glasses still perched at the end of her nose. "Right there," Julie excitedly told as they headed in that direction.
"Excuse me," Julie called out to her, "Can you spare us a moment of your time?"
"You don't have much hair I don't think we can braid your hair," the woman said turning her back on them.
"We would just like a little information about a girl whose hair you did braid," Walker told her.
She turned back and studied them for a moment before asking, "What can I tell you?"
"First if you've ever seen these two before?" Trivette asked showing her a picture of first Sydney and then Gage.
She took the picture in her gnarled old hand peering through her glasses to see if she recognized them. She recognized them immediately quickly shoving the photos back at Trivette.
"Something has happened to them. I tried to warn the young man that there was an evil presence that was watching them, especially his pretty wife. Are they dead?" she asked matter-of-factly.
Julie turned away the harsh words of reality cutting deep. "The young man is," Walker volunteered, "but we believe that she is still alive."
"The barrette?" Julie had turned back, "that you sold them do yo have any more?"
"The beads were a dime a dozen, but that barrette was an antique. There was only one like it to my knowledge. I've not even seen a copy made. It was a keepsake piece."
Unexpectedly the old woman looked past them, her face became ashen as if she had seen a ghost. "Francine Boisvert," she whispered, turning her back on them scurrying towards her booth. "I cannot speak to you any more," she shouted.
"Wait," Julie cried out just as the old woman fell forward into the street a crimson patch appearing in the middle of her back where a bullet had pierced her body.
Crouching down beside the woman Trivette put his fingers against his neck shaking his head no to both Julie and Walker confirming she was dead.
~~~~~
They spent the next few hours answering questions and conferring on what little they knew. They inquired about Francine Boisvert but the name was unfamiliar to the detective working the case.
Several days later they were no further ahead tracing the mysterious Miss Boisvert then when the braid lady had spoken her name. It seemed as if the woman if she had ever been there had vanished into thin air.
Anton Westfield was still out of the country and still unreachable. Julie called several more times but to no avail. Zeke McCall had done a vanishing act as well. There was still no clue as who would have killed the braid lady. It seemed that they were stonewalled with out finding a trace.
Finally after a week passing Walker suggested that it was time to go home and consider the memorial services for Michael and Gage with the promise that they would work from there.
Westfield Island Three Days Later…
The day was hot and humid as every day had been in this tropical heat. Sydney had just come back from a short walk with Westfield down to the docks where the two warehouses were. She had been lucky it was beginning to be harder to fend off his advances but one of his people had interrupted him. He had left her standing there and she had taken the opportunity to snoop around. She had found nothing that would help her to escape and when Westfield came back he was in a fit of anger.
"Sydney we have to cut this short I have business to attend to I'll make it up to you tonight." With that he had grabbed her roughly by the elbow and escorted her to the jeep for the ride back to the house. He had asked one of his associates to escort her back to her room and lock her in. Now here she was.
She peeked out the window of the french doors to the grounds below to see Westfield talking to his people. Even from this distance she could tell he was not happy. Everyone suddenly disappeared out of her view into the house. She sighed loudly walking back over to lie on the bed. She stared at the ceiling Gage's face coming to her mind picturing him smiling at her and teasing her like he always did. Syd's smile began to cloud with tears as she realized that her memories were all she had left of her husband.
A sharp rap on the door brought her out of her dream Syd sat up drawing her legs beneath her. The key turned in the lock and her jailer opened the door. "I have to leave the island for a few hours," Anton announced to her walking to the bed where she sat. He placed his hand on her face and her body stiffened. "I'll be back shortly before midnight and we will have a special dinner. You'll wear the aubergine formal gown be ready when I get back Sydney." He leaned forward to kiss her she turned her head so his lips caught her cheek instead of kissing her full on the lips. He smiled slightly and left her sitting there.
The door closed behind him the key turning in the lock. Syd stared at the door her hands beginning to tremble the shiver continuing over her body. She wrapped her arms around herself holding tight trying to make the terror subside. "Gage what am I going to do? I've got to get away from here. Just get away…"
~~~~~
The day melted into the night she was brought a tray of food fruits, cheeses and breads she ate very little. The hands on the clock crawled by slowly finally striking eleven and she automatically rose going through the motions of dressing for dinner. She had just sat on the edge of the bed when that familiar sound of the key turning in the lock sounded. The door opened and Anton Westfield stood there.
"Good evening darling," he smiled walking towards her stretching out his hand to her. Hesitating a moment Syd took his hand letting him help her to her feet. "You look especially lovely tonight," he continued pulling her towards him and tucking her arm through his.
"It has been such a tiring tedious day today only the thought of you here waiting for my return got me through it." Stopping in the doorway Westfield turned to Syd putting his hand beneath her chin he turned her face upwards to his. "I want this to be a night you will always remember darling," he smiled his lips brushing her forehead.
Syd wanted to scream, she wanted to strike this horrible creature again and again but instead she smiled whispering, "I'm glad you're back."
Anton smiled to himself he knew he had been right about her, he knew she needed more then the likes of Francis Gage to satisfy her.
They continued down the stairs and into the dining room as they had every other night. The table had been set with candle light illuminating it, reflecting from the silver wine glasses and water goblets. A chilled bottle of champaign had been opened and was being poured into their glasses. Westfield pulled her chair out and she sat down staring at the table as he took his seat.
Picking up the champaign glass Anton held it, "To you Sydney and to the evening we have ahead of us."
Picking up her glass Syd held it out to Westfield's letting them gently clink before bringing it to her lips taking a large sip.
"I have something for you my beautiful lady," Westfield continued placing a jewellery box on the table in front of her.
"What's this?" she asked looking up at him.
"Open it my dear I want you to know my intensions are pure where you are concerned my darling."
Sydney reached for the tiny case and snapped the lid open to reveal a beautiful diamond and emerald ring. "Anton it is gorgeous," she slowly said trying to choose her words, " I just don't know that I'm ready to accept such a wonderful gift."
"Nonsense," Anton smiled reaching for her, taking her hand in his, taking hold of her engagement ring and wedding band, pulling on them intending to take them from her.
She tried to pull her hand away crying, "Noooo." Westfield held tight pulling on her rings trying to get them off her finger. Without so much as a second thought Syd reach for the steak knife on the table that was intended for their dinner and drove it wildly into him.
"You ungrateful little… McCall," he screamed.
Syd had dropped the knife and run for the french doors leading out to the gardens. She could hear the dining room doors open McCall and the others rushing in. She could hear
Westfield yelling, "Get her and bring her back to me." She ran never looking back.
McCall was on his cell phone calling for reinforcements figuring she would head for the docks being the only means of escape.
Nearing the dock Syd saw one of the small motorboats in the water. She made a quick dash towards it only to be stopped by half a dozen of Westfield's men. She fought as hard as she could getting a couple of hits in but they were just too many. Soon they had her in their custody again taking her kicking and screaming back to Westfield.
Anton had his shirt off McCall bandaging his wound when they brought Syd to him. He stood up and walked to stand in front of her grabbing her face in his hand. "I gave you a chance and this is how you repay me. Well Sydney I'm going to have you anyway."
"No please no," Syd was pleading.
"Zeke," he called, McCall coming to his side handing him a hypodermic needle.
"Anton please."
"Consider yourself lucky Sydney this is some of our best heroine," he smiled emptying the needle into her arm. "Take her upstairs and stretch her out for me."
Sydney could feel the drug surging through her veins powerless to stop it. They dragged her up the stairs and tossed her on the bed. McCall went to the vanity and pulled open one of the drawers pulling out a handful of silk scarves. Coming back to the bed he stood over her for a moment looking down at her.
"Help me," she weakly cried out to him unable to move, her arms and legs feeling like lead.
He laughed at her taking her arm and securing it to the canopy post of the bed. Once both legs and arms were tied and she couldn't move the men left. Left her to Westfield's mercy.
Syd's head was in a fog she couldn't focus. "Gage, Gage," she cried over and over he wouldn't answer her why wasn't he there rescuing her.
"Call him all you want he can't save you like last time," Westfield taunted her. "You Sydney are mine you are my property and I have waited long enough for you." He stood above her now taking a long swig from the champagne bottle that they had been sharing earlier.
"Anton you… don't want to do this…" she tried to reason with him.
"On the contrary Sydney I've wanted to do this since you walked into the restaurant on your husband's arm," he sneered reaching down grabbing a handful of her dress and ripping it open.
"No, no," Syd cried feeling his hands on her ripping her underwear from her leaving her naked before him. Picking up what was left of the champaign he poured it over her, laughing at her as she struggled against her bonds.
"I wait no longer," he sang out undoing his pants and letting them drop to his ankles. He unceremoniously climbed on top of her leaning down to grab a nipple in his mouth at the same time entering her body hard working himself in and out until he was satisfied.
Sydney lay numb the tears streaming from her eyes as he got up from her leaving her laying there not even tossing a sheet across her.
He yanked his pants up and left without a word
"Gage," she whispered the drugs taking over her eyes closing as she mercifully passed out.
~~~~~
Westfield made several trips to Sydney's room over the next few days either to administer more drugs to her or to take pleasure from her body.
Sanchez Home One Week Later
Gage had mostly recovered from his wounds he spent his time building his strength. It had taken some doing but he had finally talked Lorenzo Sanchez into delivering him to Westfield's Island. They were going to go out in the early hours of the morning to avoid detection.
The plan was to go out to the backside of the island coming in, as close as they could and Gage would swim in the rest of the way. From that point on he would be on his own. Both Lorenzo and Pedro were terrified of Philippe Martez and with good reason. Their Mother Rosa had confided in Gage how Martez had murdered her husband and made the boys watch threatening them the same would happen to them if they dared go against him.
"Are you sure you want to do this Gage?" Pedro asked for what seemed like the hundredth time. The moon had risen in the sky and it was quite light Gage could see the fear on Pedro's face.
Gage rested his hand on the man's shoulder explaining, "I may as well be dead as not have her back. I've lost my only sister and only family save my wife Sydney. I have to go there and rescue her if I can. Please try and understand that."
"I do Gage," Pedro retorted. "It is the same reason Lorenzo and I must take you."
"Come on you two enough chatter," Lorenzo interrupted. "If we are going it has to be now."
Without another word all three men got in the boat and Lorenzo piloted it out to the open water. It took an hour to reach Westfield Isle; they pulled into a little cove away from the main docks and house.
"Thank you for everything," Gage told them shaking both there hands.
"Be careful Gage," Lorenzo told him as he eased himself into the water.
"Maybe we will meet again some day," Pedro added to his farewell.
He shoved off for shore as Lorenzo and Pedro turned back to open water and home.
Gage was pulling himself out of the warm surf in a matter of minutes, and heading for the other side of the island and the house. He hurried as fast as he could a deep rooted worry for Syd coming to the surface. If they had hurt her… Gage knew that nothing would stop him delivering his revenge.
All was quiet as he neared the house. There was a faint glow of a light being cast from a second story window the doors on the balcony slightly ajar. Only two sentries could be seen Gage easily took them permanently out and made his way to the house. He cautiously moved up the staircase that led from the ground to the second story moving into the shadows against the wall. He could hear faint voices filtering through the open doors at the far end.
"This is going to make you feel so much better my darling," Gage could hear Westfield's voice as his blood began to boil. "And when you are relaxed I'll have you again and again."
"No Anton, no please no more." He could hear his wife's pitiful cry as he neared the door to peer inside.
Westfield stood towering over her, he had hold of her arm with one hand a needle in the other ready to send the drug into her arm once again. Sydney lay naked struggling in vain to get away from him the tears washing over her pale desperate face.
"You bastard…" Gage's furry was unmatched by anything Westfield had seen before. In one leap his hands were around Anton's throat the needle clattering to the floor. Gage had him on his back against the fancy Persian carpeting his hands tightening around the man's throat as his eyes began to bulge and he desperately tried to fight his attacker. Westfield was grabbing at anything he could in a feeble attempt to get Gage off him, he caught hold of one of the sheets and pulled on it bringing a tray of food that was sitting on the bed crashing to the floor. It didn't matter Gage still hung on his fingers sinking into Westfield's neck until his eyes rolled back in his head and he ceased to struggle his last breath squeezed out of him.
Gage breathed hard as he struggled to his feet and to his wife. "Syd, Syd," he cried gathering her in his arms. He could hear footsteps in the hallway coming towards them, pulling the sheet around her he lifted her into his arms and ducked into the bathroom, stepping into the bathtub drawing the curtain around them before sinking down to hold her.
"Gage," she whispered not knowing if he was real or if she was dreaming once again.
"Shh," he cautioned his lips covering hers to silence her as the men knocked on the bedroom door.
"Mr. Westfield," one of them was shouting. Getting no answer the door banged open and they ran in to him seeing him lying on the floor a vacant stare fixed to his face.
"He's dead," the other acknowledged checking for a pulse.
"And the girl is gone," the first continued, "Get McCall in here now."
"Gage," Syd feebly tried again as he laid his fingers on her lips shaking his head no. Gage didn't know if she understood or not she just turned her face into chest and wept. He pulled her closer listening as Zeke McCall entered the bedroom.
"What happened?" McCall bellowed.
"It had to be the girl," one of the guards started, "You've seen her fight."
"Yeah I seen her fight but that was before she was pumped full of heroine. The last I seen of her she couldn't fight her way out of bed," McCall stated. "The woman had help the question is by who."
He walked towards the open doors and looked into the early morning darkness. A voice broke the silence yelling up from below, "Williams is down here dead."
"Yeah how much help," McCall muttered to himself. "Let's get down there and find them before this really gets out of hand," he ordered rushing out the door the other two following close behind.
Everything had become quiet, Gage looked down at his wife brushing the still present braids from her face allowing his own tears to cloud his eyes. Drawing her to him she turned her face up to his. "It's really you isn't it?" she whispered to her husband. "I thought they had killed you."
"Its really me Syd, I'm not going to let them hurt you any more Honey," he promised with his own whispers his kisses pressing the top of her head. "We have to find a way out of here we aren't safe here. Can you walk?"
She shook her head yes but even as he helped her to her feet he knew it was going to be a challenge. He lifted her out of the bathtub helping her to the door pushing it open a crack to check the room. Finding it empty he put his arm around her walking into the room with her shielding her from Westfield he led her to the far side of the bed. Sitting her down he asked, "Are there any clothes that you can put on?"
She shook her head yes again but made no other move. Going to the vanity Gage opened the drawers and began pulling out things she could wear going to her helped her into them.
Suddenly there was a shuffling noise in the hallway, Gage picked up Syd pressing them up against the wall behind the door. Slowly it began to swing open and an old oriental man holding tight to the hand of a young girl crept into the room.
"I told you grandfather," the girl started, "he's dead I'm glad he is dead." With that the girl walked to where Westfield lay dead and spit on him. She spun around quick catching sight of Gage and Sydney gasping in surprise.
"Please," Gage called to her, "we don't mean you any harm. I just came for my wife."
"You killed him didn't you? You are who they are looking for?" she questioned.
Gage nodded his head yes feeling they wouldn't give them away. She nodded at her grandfather who in turn said, "Quick come this way we help."
Putting his arm around Sydney they followed the two of them out down the hall and to a back staircase that led to the kitchen. Going to a panelled wall the old man touched something along the window frame and the wall slide open revealing a staircase going down.
"Lin hurry," her grandfather ordered as she headed down the stairs leading the way Gage and Syd followed Gage almost carrying Syd. The old man followed behind tripping the switch sliding the wall panel back in place.
"This tunnel comes out close to the docks," the elderly man was explaining as they hurried along. "We take boat and escape," he continued.
"Shh grandfather," Lin cautioned as they neared the mouth of the tunnel.
The four of them crowded together watching as about a dozen armed men patrolled the area and loaded the boats with what was stored in the warehouses.
"Never mind them," McCall's voice could be heard, "We need to load up and disappear before Martez gets back."
"Looks like the rats are jumping ship," Gage said thinking aloud. "If we circle to the south we should be able to get to that small craft at the end and be able to paddle out unnoticed until we are far enough to start the engine," Gage observed taking charge once again.
Lin and her grandfather, Kim Hu, both nodded in agreement. Gage turned to Sydney, "Like old times Honey we can do this." She nodded her head too willing to do anything not to be parted from Gage a second time. She had begun to tremble and Gage pulled her close knowing the effects the lack of the heroine was beginning to have on her body. Again he whispered to her, "We can do this Honey."
"Remember," Gage told them all, "no matter what happens keep going for the boat." Leading the way holding his wife against him they started towards the small craft Lin and Kim right behind them.
Stopping at the edge of the dock Gage turned to Kim. "I'll run across the dock first with Sydney, as soon as we are in the boat you and Lin do the same."
The man nodded his head in agreement hoarsely whispering at the same time, "Thank you for saving us."
"Don't thank me yet wait until we are out of here and headed for home," Gage cautioned. Turning to Syd he asked, "Ready for this?" She stared at him for a moment and shook her head yes. Taking hold of her hand he pulled her up and they dashed across the dock for the other side and the boat.
"There they are!" someone was shouting the bullets suddenly firing at them. Diving on top of Syd Gage began to return fire with a gun he had taken from one of the sentries. Both men were hit from Gage's shots but not before a wild spray of bullets fired into the metal drums on the dock setting off a change reaction of explosions lighting the sky up with everything and everyone in it's path.
TBC