The flight back to Honolulu was filled with Price bragging about his operation and Danny's deep concern for Tommy's welfare. He had been excited that Tommy was sent to the Youth Camp after the shooting. He felt it would give him an opportunity to learn about his heritage and to live within the guidelines of society. Now he wondered what type of education he was getting. Danny felt sick with what he'd learn and was desperate to find out about Tommy. 'I'm responsible for this, Lord I hope Kaeli'i still has some faith in me.' But Danny couldn't shake the overwhelming feeling of dread regarding Tommy.
As soon as the helicopter landed Price headed straight to the office to make a business call. Looking around Danny asked if he could use the phone at the desk next to Price. Danny wanted to check in with Steve and wanted to be sure Price could hear. Even though he wouldn't be able to speak freely, he felt it would leave no room for suspicion on Price's part.
"Mr. Steve, is my grandfather available?" Danny spoke softly, but loud enough for Price to have no doubt who was being called.
"Do you have a moment to talk to me Master Gardner?" Steve asked knowing from the predetermined code that the call was being monitored.
"Not really, I'm in a rush. Now, is my grandfather there?"
"No he's not, shall I take a message?"
"Yeah, just tell him...on second thought tell him I'll talk to him later. Maybe I'll call tonight." Danny said acting agitated. In an exaggerated tone he added, "If I'm available." Danny hung up the phone and ran his fingers through his hair. 'Well he knows I'm back and OK. Hope he waits until I can call back.' Danny thought as he looked toward Price who was now finished with his call and watching Danny.
"I thought you and your grandfather were, let's see, how does it go...not on speaking terms?" Price inquired.
Deciding to cop an attitude to keep Price guessing he answered sharply repeating what Price said earlier at the Youth Camp, "There are some things you must not know."
"Hey, it's cool man. Don't be mad at me. In time you'll learn all there is to learn."
Taking a deep breath as if resolved to play it Price's way Danny made amends as he shrugged, "I'll never meet his approval and for some reason that's what I want. He's all the family I really have. I don't know, I guess that means something to me."
Price bought the entire act. Danny knew it paved the way for future calls to Steve uninterrupted and unquestioned. Price patted Danny on the back as if he appreciated the inclusion into a private part of Danny's life that no one else had. "One of these days you'll have more money than your grandfather will ever imagine. Then you'll have that approval. You'll see, you'll show him!"
As the two men walked toward the waiting car Price's sister emerged from the car. Leilani was a beautiful woman with strong Hawaiian features like her brother. Her silky dark hair was recently cut to shoulder length much to her brothers displeasure. Her walk was engaging and her smile alluring. The fact that she was attracted to Danny was obvious and she didn't care. Danny wasn't unaccustomed to being pursued, but never quite so boldly. He never thought he would be bothered by a beautiful woman pursuing him with such aggressiveness, but he was. At first he thought it was because of her criminal involvement, then he decided he just didn't like it. Danny was never aggressive in his pursuit of women. He felt that was pushing someone into a situation they really didn't want, now he was thankful he wasn't that way.
"Wait here a second Danny, I need to talk to Leilani real quick."
"Hi Dale, Good trip?" Leilani asked as she took her brother's arm.
"The best one ever." Dale replied noticing the look his sister was giving Danny. Price was well acquainted with 'the look'. "You better be careful little sister with this one. He could be jail bait."
"And you know I would never do anything illegal big brother!" Leilani looked innocently at her brother. "I can't tell if he's of age or not...he looks like he would be worth finding out though. I've never enjoyed a much younger man Dale. Maybe I could teach him some things."
Price smiled at his sister's devious scheme. Unlike before, Price hoped this time the arrangement might be more permanent. He thought it would be ideal to have Danny as his assistant...his second in command. If Danny and Leilani lasted for any length of time it would only add to his feeling of security. If they were to get married, the situation would be ideal!
Price waved for Danny to join them. Leilani could hardly let go of the thoughts whirling inside her head as he approached the couple.
"Danny, from the look on my brother's face it looks as if you were a big success with Director Lee," Leilani said eyeing Danny.
Trying to act accommodating, Danny inwardly felt as if he needed a shower to rid himself of the filth. "I can honestly say, I have learned more than I ever thought possible. Your brother's operation...well it's unique and I would have never suspected it."
Leilani squeezed her brothers arm and smiled seductively at Danny. She enjoyed the challenge Danny was proving to be...but she would only allow it to continue for so long. Danny would be hers before too long. Her zealous desires for him were growing at a fierce pace and she wouldn't be put off very much longer. Danny in the meantime knew she was a force to be reckoned with and hoped the case would end before he had to deal with it any deeper.
After requesting Danny give up his apartment, Price insisted that Danny live at his house. Danny searched his room in the expansive house and was relieved to see it wasn't bugged. He would hate to have to talk to Steve in code. It was nearly midnight when Danny found his first opportunity to call Steve so they could freely talk. He wasn't sure if Steve would still be awake and at the office, but somehow he had no doubt he would be.
When Steve answered, Danny felt a relief. He wasn't with 5-0 physically so the phone calls with Steve provided him with the connection he was desperately missing.
"Price's operation is on the Big Island Steve. You'll never believe where!"
"OK, surprise me." Steve answered taking the bait.
"Right on the grounds of the Ho'omaka 'ana Youth Camp!" Danny replied picturing Steve jumping to his feet at the shocking news.
"What?! Are you serious?!" Steve replied jumping to his feet.
"I'm very serious. The Director has opened up some rather large greenhouses to Price and is allowing him full access without interference it seems." Danny offered.
"Danno," Steve sat back down knowing what type of impact this had to have on Danny. He was surprised that he wasn't concerned for the operation at the moment, rather for his young colleague. "What about Tommy? Have you seen him, is he OK?"
"When I saw the camp Steve, I panicked. I haven't seen him yet...I can't tell you how...Steve, I just don't know what to think."
Steve took a deep breath, he knew what Danny was groping for and not able to express. He felt the same way. Desperate to if Tommy was easily recruited for an operation like this, if Tommy would loose his faith in the system and turn to hard crime...the feeling of being responsible in putting the teenager into this situation. "Danno, I'll see what I can do about moving Tommy. I'll have him transferred to the Juvenile facility here. It's not ideal, but it would get him away without jeopardizing what we're doing. When everything is over, we can have him moved back."
"Thanks, Steve...thanks!"
With his mind somewhat at ease knowing Steve understood and would help with Tommy, Danny went into detail of what was happening on the Big Island and all that he saw. "Price claims that neither Lee nor the monitors are involved or have knowledge of what's going on Steve."
"But...?"
"But I can't believe Brighton would have HPD contacts and not have any in the Youth Camp."
"Good point Danno, I agree. I'll see what we can dig up from this end on HPD, or any other officers on the Islands. What else have you got?"
"Well, from what Price told me, the greenhouses were Brighton's idea. Brighton sent fake literature to Lee requesting an opportunity to meet the Director to go over what he had in mind. I also can't believe Brighton would hand over all his contacts to Price so easily either! I have the feeling the Youth Camp was in the beginning stages when Brighton was forced to leave. That's why he has Price, to develop it and run it. I know Brighton wouldn't hand it over unless he had some of his men in place without Price's knowledge."
"I think you're right Danno. Maybe that belief can be used in our favor."
"How Steve? I don't know who is loyal to Brighton and who is loyal to Price."
"Neither does Price."
"I want them all, but I'm afraid we could lose some of the monitors." Danny said feeling defeated already.
"Yeah, I want them too. I want all of his HPD contacts also. OK Danno, lets work it this way; I'll concentrate on the monitors and HPD, you continue with what you're doing. We will not let any of them get away with it."
"I have Price convinced that I'm secretly desiring a relationship with my grandfather. So I shouldn't have much trouble with calling you in the future. This is a lonely case though Steve. I haven't talked with my family or friends in ÿI don't know how long. Could you call Mei and Joey to let them know I'm OK? They'll get a message to Aunt Clara."
"Kono mentioned he saw your brother Alan just yesterday. Joey called last week and we talked briefly. He knows you're on an assignment, but I'll call and tell them know we spoke tonight and you asked me to call. It doesn't sound like it will be much longer Danno, the case should be over before too long."
"Good, I don't think I can last much longer without any friends!" Danny laughed.
"I take it you're implying to female friends?" Steve couldn't resist the opening Danny left for him. It was all he could do to sound serious and keep from laughing. "Don't worry Danno, your gallant efforts of restraining yourself will be well rewarded I'm sure!"
Finally catching on Danny couldn't help but laugh. "Cute Steve, thanks ever so much for the reminder!"
When the laughter finally died down and the conversation was at its end Steve couldn't resist the constant message at the end of each call, "Danno, please be careful. I want these guys, but not at your expense."
"Don't worry, I'm watching my back."
As Steve hung up the phone he knew Danny was in deeper than any undercover officer had ever been in Hawaii. He knew he had the right man and he was more than impressed with how well the young officer was doing. Steve respected all of his men including Danny. But Danny was more talented than any officer he ever met before. It was obvious to Steve that he not only respected Danno, he favored the young man slightly more than the others.
Steve looked around and realized that he missed Danny in the daily grind of the office. His enthusiasm and energy was contagious and noticeably absent since the undercover operation began. 'Danno said he missed his friends, I wonder if that includes us?' Steve chuckled at the thought that he would even care. But he did care and he hoped Danny did also.
Steve couldn't rest until he knew the officers in HPD connected to this organization were identified. He wanted them out of commission, but that would have to wait. Until that time, he at least wanted to know who they were and he knew exactly where to start.
Duke Lukela was a man Steve had always thought would be an excellent addition to 5-0. His guys knew him and respected him in every aspect, career and personally. Though Steve wasn't wanting to step on Chief Dann's toes just yet, he knew Duke would be the one person in HPD who could be trusted to investigate fellow HPD officers discretely. Duke had worked with 5-0 on several cases, but he was always on loan. No way Chief Dann would ever let the 5-0 team have Duke without a real fight. Partly because Duke was too good to let go and the other reason was because Steve wanted him. Chief Dann always supported and cooperated with 5-0 on the surface, underneath he was jealous of the elite crime unit and did his best to not give in to their requests. Steve knew this about the Chief, so he made sure he got what he wanted...at least eventually. Duke would be a member of 5-0, one day. In the meantime Duke was beginning to work with 5-0 so much, Steve assigned him to his own desk in the office. 'Chief Dann will have a fit when he finds that out!' Steve laughed to himself knowing it would only be a matter of time before that tidbit of information would find its way to the Chief's desk.
Steve felt some pressure release after deciding his next course of action. First thing in the morning he would assign Duke the delicate task of spying on his fellow officers.
The week that followed brought little information or action. Biding his time Danny wanted to be sure Price knew he was interested, but was careful so that he wouldn't bring attention to his true motives. Meanwhile, Leilani's constant pursuit began to wear on Danny. It wasn't long before Danny could easily see that Price was trying to leave him alone in order to give time to his sister in her pursuit. The opening he was looking for came at a cost. To get the rest of the operation, there would have to be a relationship with Leilani.
Danny knew Leilani's interest in him was only physical, so a game of cat and mouse would keep her interested long enough to get what he wanted. He laughed at the thought of him running from a woman who only wanted a physical relationship. It never stopped him before. In fact he preferred it that way since he wasn't interested in a commitment at this point in his life. But his companions always knew who he was and there were never any pretenses involved. Regardless of the situation with Leilani, he knew he wouldn't act on any desires he may possibly feel. Not while the investigation was being conducted, especially with her being implicated. As Danny thought of Leilani he knew he could never have been truly interested in her. Any attraction he felt now was merely physical or related to the investigation. If he had met her under different circumstances, he didn't think she would warrant more than an appreciative glance. Regardless, he would not forget who he was...or who and what she was.
Whenever one of her constant sexual innuendoes began to get to Danny, he would immediately withdraw. He knew she took this to mean he was intimidated by an older and more experienced woman. He also knew it only excited her more. For now it was his only way of keeping her interested and not looking suspicious. Danny couldn't believe his luck! His actions only seemed to encourage rather than discourage her.
Duke had understood clearly what Steve was looking for and shared in his feelings of betrayal. The thought of police officers being involved with the likes of Brighton (much less any criminal) was detestable in his mind.
Five-0 had managed to review all the arrest records involving boys sent to the youth camp who were connected to Family Services. Through that list Steve composed the names of officers who were suspect. Steve, Duke, Chin, and Kono all looked defeated as they realized they were looking at the names of men who had vowed to uphold the law.
"How can anyone want to be a cop and do this?" Kono finally vocalized what each man was thinking.
"I know Kono. I think how hard we work on our image and then you come up with this!" Steve said as he turned his attention from the list and towards the men in his office. He was proud of his team, but never more than now. Each one hard working and dedicated, never complaining...well hardly ever. "Our first thing is to find out which one of these men is dirty."
"Or if they all are?" Chin added soberly.
"Yeah, I hope not though," Steve replied then continued, "We need to find out which ones and that's where you come in Duke. I want you to see what you can dig up. Ask around to see who has a few extra bucks in their pockets. But be careful!" Steve nearly choked at that statement. 'Seems as though I'm saying that a lot here lately.' "I don't want to tip these guys off that we may be on to them. I want them very comfortable in their dealings. Once we know who is dirty, I want to find out how they work and start collecting evidence. The monitors at the youth camp may be in touch with these guys. If they are I want to know about it as soon as possible. Get me everything you can gentlemen...and fast!"
Steve returned to his chair behind his desk as the men began to leave. Stopping at the door Kono voiced another concern they all shared, "Danny in deep, ain't he boss?"
"Yeah, real deep bruddah! I think we sent him right into the middle of the lion's den. That's one reason we need to be quick on the information and for no one to know what we have."
Once again the time was late and Danny was exhausted. Danny pulled his shirttail out and thought it seemed to take forever to unbutton it. Looking at the clock on his night stand, he removed his shirt and dialed Steve's number. Before a connection could be made there was knock on his door. Hanging up the phone Danny opened the door to find Leilani very scantily dressed in a silk robe that teased the imagination with what parts of the body were allowed to be exposed.
Not waiting to be asked in, Leilani slipped past Danny without turning her back to him. She smiled as she enjoyed the reaction on his face. The parts of her body hidden by the robe had thick lace strategically placed allowing an ever so slight peek only when the person wearing the garment moved. She reached for the door and closed it then began to run her fingers up and down Danny's bare chest. Seductively she moved Danny toward the middle of the room. Looking up at him she began to kiss his chest as she caressed his arms and back. Before he had a chance to pull away she whispered, "This is the robe, wait until you see the gown."
Danny could feel the heat rise. 'Oh Lord, how much can a guy take!' Just as the thought came to him, Leilani began to explore him and touch him. Danny was alarmed, he knew he wouldn't be able to push her away this time. Leilani felt the growing arousal of her victim through his jeans. She stepped back and began to remove her robe. Danny knew she didn't have a gown on underneath and had an overwhelming desire to draw her back into his arms. Just as she was about to reveal herself she laughed slightly and in a tantalizing voice she declared, "Two can play the game Danny. You want to tease? I can tease." Looking back at him she fought her own strong desires. It was obvious she had won and could finally have him if she wanted. She also knew her desire to have him was just as obvious. But she enjoyed the game and wasn't ready for the conquest quite yet.
"Not yet, I still have some more teasing to do." She approached Danny and cupped her hands over his hot face bringing his mouth to hers. They were kissing deep and hard when she pulled away, turned and walked to the door. Stopping at the door she smiled maliciously and removed her robe revealing her nude backside. She turned her head ever so slightly to make sure she still had his attention then slowly opened the door. She could feel his eyes on her and the heat from his body desiring her as she walked down the dark hallway to her own room.
Finally able to move, Danny closed the door. With his back to the door he slowly slid against it to the floor. Breathing deeply trying to control his emotions he couldn't help but express out loud the only thing that continuously crossed his mind, "Thank God she's a tease!"
Price saw his nude sister leaving Danny's room. He smiled as he inaccurately assumed the two had enjoyed each other completely. He gently closed his door so he wouldn't reveal what he saw. Now that his sister had her conquest, the morning would reveal to him if the relationship was over or if it would continue. 'If my sister is consistent with anything, it's her bed partners the day after!' Once conquered they were always discarded. His sister confided in him once that she would never sleep with a man twice. She'd never met a man yet that she wanted to be with more than once. If that time ever came, then she planned on having an on-going relationship with that man. Maybe even permanent. From the moment he saw his sister look at Danny, Price knew this relationship would be different. If Danny passed his sisters test and continued his physical involvement with her, he felt confident in pursuing his own relationship with Danny.
Leilani's bewitching passes at Danny the next day was all Price needed to confirm what he hoped would be true. In his office he had the opportunity to question her regarding her intentions.
"So Mr. Gardner must need a lot of teaching," he teased.
She knew he watched her with Danny earlier in the morning. "Do you find it offensive? He is younger than I am. I would say I'm about ten years older than he is." Looking back at her brother she smiled and continued, "I certainly hope my...time...with Danny isn't offensive. He's proving to be more fun than I've had in a long time. And there is much for him to learn."
Price smiled at his sister knowing she would do whatever she wanted, no matter what he felt. And that was fine with him. She was a great asset to him and in his own way he loved her.
"Have your fun sis. Just be smart and don't wind up pregnant. Other than that, teach him all you can. I know I plan to."
"Well then, I guess Danny is going to be one smart cookie by the time we're done with him!"
Duke took the names of the officers Steve gave him and decided to check recent arrest records for each of them. When it came to juveniles connected to Family Services, there were five officers whose arrest percentages nearly doubled the other officers on the list. He watched those five men and noticed they seemed to also have a few extra luxuries in their lives. Since none of them worked extra shifts or jobs, he was certain they were involved. But before he went back to McGarrett, he wanted to be sure they were the only ones involved.
That same day Duke received a call from Ben Kokua, a detective from Juvenile. The tall thin Hawaiian officer knew Duke socially and knew he was connected to 5-0. Kokua was comfortable talking freely with Duke. He respected him and trusted him. By the end of the conversation Duke acted quickly...they had their first solid connection.
Duke wasted no time getting to Steve's office and was thankful that Chin and Kono were there as well. Telling the two detectives he had something hot they immediately jumped from their chairs and escorted him into Steve's office.
"Ben Kokua in Juvenile just reported to me that he noticed a few officers were more involved with Juvenile offenders than others but couldn't put his finger on why it bothered him. Then today a young teenager had been arrested and taken to Juvenile...demanding to talk to Officer Jones. The second he was told Jones was deceased, he asked for Officer Keegan".
"Excellent...we need to see if we can find this kid..." Before Steve could finish, Duke excitedly interrupted.
"No Steve, they have him! The kid...they have the kid in holding now! Kokua wouldn't let anyone at the kid, so Keegan has no idea the kids been arrested or is asking for him!"
Steve couldn't believe what he was hearing. Looking to Kono, Steve set his plan into motion.
Kono arrived at Juvenile feeling awkward. He hadn't worn a uniform in years and the one they grabbed for him was just a little snug as far as he was concerned.
He walked into the interrogation room where the youngster was waiting. To Kono he looked as though he was climbing the walls and on edge. He knew the kid wasn't only selling drugs; he was hooked on the stuff as well. The kid appeared to be in his late twenties, but knew from his file that he was only 15. Kono didn't know what he felt, anger or pity at the kid.
"I'm Keegan's partner...and you bettah have good reason for yelling his name around punk."
"I don't know you! I want Keegan!"
"He ain't available. You're not in his care...you're not one of his? He never mentioned your name to me."
The teenager bought Kono's act. He immediately explained he belonged to Jones. "Jones told me if he wasn't available to ask for Keegan. I guess being dead means he ain't available!"
"What business were you working for Jones?"
"Can't you tell. You figure it out - you're the cop!"
"You were arrested for drugs...but you look like a walker to me." Kono said knowing that would get the kid talking.
"I'm no prostitute man! You know good and well I sell the drugs and that's it! Jones never set me up for walking...drugs only!"
"Who else you know in the group, kid?" Kono asked suspiciously.
The teenager had a sudden realization that this cop wasn't in on it! He had been tricked and had fallen for it. He his mind raced with what to do next. He could be killed now if he went back to the streets. After a moment or two more of silence, the teen found his voice and asked quietly, "You aren't with them – are you?" He knew he was just confirming what the Hawaiian officer suspected. "They'll kill me. They'll know I confirmed Keegan and they'll kill me!"
"No way bruddah. We will get you help for your problem and put you in protective custody. But you gotta talk and you gotta help us."
It took a good bit of time convincing the teenager to talk and agree to wear a wire. He was briefed on what to say and the names that needed to be confirmed. Steve felt uneasy but knew they needed to act now before the boy lost his ability to function. With the wire set, they moved the teenager to a private room and had Kokua call Keegan.
When Keegan arrived Kokua explained they didn't have an interrogation room available and asked if he wanted someone in the room with him while he talked to the boy. After assuring Kokua that he would be fine on his own, Keegan stepped into the room and excused the guard that was inside.
The teenager looked up and didn't waste any time. "You Keegan?"
"Yes, and that's Officer Keegan to you."
"Jones told me to always ask for him. He gave me a list of names to go through if he wasn't available. He always told me to ask for him, then you, then Marks, Piala, Tridan, and then Evans. I asked for all of you and none of you were available. So I asked to wait to see who I could get first. Did I do right?"
"Yeah, you did OK kid. Look, with this bust you are going to have to do some time. I'll get you in at the youth camp and that'll be a breeze. It shouldn't be for more than a few months, then they'll let you out and we will put you up a little higher in the organization. Maybe I'll give you some people to sell for you so you won't have to take any more of these risks."
"That'll be great! Man, I could do that. But only a few months right? Will you set it up so I'll get the Youth Camp and not the Detention Hall?"
"Yeah, no problem. We don't want to lose a good man like you!"
"I have another kid I was trying to get to join us. I promised to meet him tonight. Is there anyway I can keep that meet?"
"No problem. I'll have bond posted for you...but if you don't make your court date kid...we'll kill you. Literally!"
"I won't miss it. If I run into a problem, who should I ask for?"
"You got the names right. Any one of us can be contacted. We're all in the same organization."
"Man, a drug and hooker organization run by HPD cops...that's cool!"
"You just don't forget it! You have no idea how wide spread our organization is...so watch out!"
Steve listened to the conversation in another room as it was being taped. He couldn't believe how cocky Keegan was. To talk so openly to a drug user and acknowledge everyone involve so easily, he had to feel pretty secure that no one even had the slightest idea what was going on. It turned his stomach to know what they were doing, to know they were so arrogant.
"We have all the proof we need now gentlemen." Steve said in a disgusted tone. "I don't want to tip anyone off, so let's watch Keegan, Marks, Piala, Tridan, and Evans closely."
Danny was thankful when the following afternoon Price informed him they would be going back to the Youth Camp. He wasn't sure how much more of Leilani he could handle. Leilani on the other hand was more than a little upset with her brother. She managed to repeat the teasing events of the night before throughout the morning. Danny was tired of her groping at him at every turn.
He had been eating lunch with Price when it was suggested he pack for their trip. Unfortunately, Leilani was waiting for him in his room. She was completely undressed and lounging on Danny's bed. She smiled as she got up from his bed and began to kiss him passionately while exploring his body, never noticing her advances were not being returned. Suddenly she stopped kissing him and looked up to Danny while she continued to obscenely caress him. She smiled as she left the room, promising more later.
Breathing deeply Danny closed his eyes. Unlike before, he was not aroused at all, rather he felt as though he had been violated. The person he saw her to be was disgusting. Whatever beauty she possessed on the outside was now scarred with the ugliness he saw inside her. Growing angry at the advances, he was glad that today he would be leaving. He knew it was a matter of time that everything would be revealed to him. Regardless, he would no longer allow her to behave this way.
Leaving Danny's room, Leilani smiled as she tried to calm down. She was having fun but her desire for him was mounting and she knew she wouldn't be able to hold out much longer. The fact that Danny did not respond to her was hidden by her own selfish desires. She felt her plans with Danny were coming along just fine. And just as she couldn't continue to hold off - she was convinced in her own mind that Danny couldn't either.
Unlike before, Danny saw Tommy right away but knew he wasn't spotted. He had been wondering if it wasn't more dangerous after all to have Steve move Tommy out of the camp, than for Tommy to stay put. If any of the camp monitors who were on Brighton's payroll became suspicious because of a last minute move, Tommy's life could be put into danger. This was especially true since Keegan knew both Danny and Tommy. If he tried to have Tommy taken out of the camp, Keegan might get wind of it and alert Brighton. With a heavy heart Dan decided to ask Steve not to move Tommy at all. He watched Tommy for a few moments more and wondered if Tommy might have lost the faith and trust he was just beginning to develop. Somehow Danny knew he had to find a way to let Tommy know he wasn't alone. Danny also wondered if Tommy couldn't find out some information for him from the inside. Immediately he put that thought aside. 'Last thing I want is to get Kaeli'i involved anymore than he is. If he got hurt, I could never live with myself!'
"How do you feel about being my second-in-command Danny?" Price announced in a deadly voice.
Danny's thoughts were immediately shifting gears from Tommy to Price. 'My cover...does he know?'
"I'm ready to expand my operation and I feel it's time to bring you on full force." Price announced to Danny's relief. "I want you to call that grandfather of yours and tell him you will be out of touch for a few days. Tell him you're going on a business adventure and when you get back you will be more successful than he ever thought possible. Of course he doesn't have to know the details, now does he? Just remember what you tell him so he can't catch you in your story." Price smiled as he slapped Danny on the back.
Danny couldn't believe his luck when Price requested that Danny use a pay phone in town. His insecurity over detection devices was about as strong as Danny's. Also to his amazement, was the fact that Price insisted that Danny go alone. His position with Price was sealed...which meant it would soon come to an end.
Danny pulled up to a café he and Steve frequented on their trips to the Big Island. It was on a waterfront for some of the fishing boats and he always loved the atmosphere. Though the area attracted some tourists, its main function was to accommodate the privately owned fishing boats that operated daily to provide fresh fish to the local restaurants. Bill, the café owner, was a former cop on the mainland before he took a bullet in the knee that ended his career. He knew Danny and Steve and was one person both men trusted and respected even though they never knew his full name. Having worked countless undercover cases, Bill had a habit of never greeting the two 5-0 officers until he was sure it was safe to talk. Danny approached the large burly man and asked for directions to the men's room. Bill looked up and nodded his head in the direction that Danny was more than familiar with. Passing the men's room, Danny headed for the small back room at the end of the short hallway that posed as Bill's office.
Several minutes later Bill went to the office and the two men greeted each other with a firm handshake. After assuring Danny he wasn't followed into the restaurant Danny reached over Bill's desk to make his call to Steve. It was agreed that Danny needed to start wearing a wire and arrangements were made for someone to meet Danny there. Any information would have to be obtained before Price left and Leilani arrived. Though Danny would attempt to fend off any unwanted advances, he still had to be realistic. Leilani felt at liberty to touch Danny anywhere she pleased and he had to be aware that she could easily discover the wire.
The tech that came to wire Danny looked like any of the countless dockworkers. He gave Danny a quick lesson on the art of wiring himself in case the tape began to slip.
"Mr. McGarrett is on his way to the Island," the tech advised. "He said you are to keep this on at all times, don't take it off. Also he wanted me to tell you..."
"To be careful!" Danny finished.
"Actually he didn't say that."
Surprised Danny looked at the tech with a questioning expression.
"His actual words were.... to be extra careful," The tech relayed without even cracking the slightest smile.
Danny shook his head and smiled. Sobering he knew this was it. The entire case would revolve around the next three days. Danny felt nervous and exhilarated at the same time. He would be glad when the case was over and he could return home...but more than that he wanted the case to be a success. Before leaving, Danny fought the overwhelming desire to contact his family. There wasn't any time for it and he knew he wouldn't be able to really talk.
In case he was being watched from the outside Danny left the café from a back door hidden from the parking lot. Bill had handed him a half eaten sandwich and nearly finished soda, so it would appear as though Danny had been strolling the docks in case he was being watched. About to take a bite of the sandwich, Danny stopped and wondered who had eaten and drank the lunch before it was given to him. Without another thought Danny took a huge bite off the sandwich and washed it down with the remainder of the now warm soda. As he threw the rest away at a nearby can he smiled as he imagined the hysterics his Aunt and Mei would have over what he had just done. It was the closest he felt to home since this case started.
Price met Danny as he pulled up to the youth camp. "Director Lee has offered us the use of a house owned by the camp. He says it's not much, but we are welcomed to it. I want to check it out. It may server our purposes until more appropriate housing arrangements can be made for you and my sister."
Following Price's directions Danny decided it would be to his advantage to tell him of his 'lunch' in case he had been watched. He informed him of some of the dock news and wanted to know if Price would be using the harbor to move his drugs along.
As they arrived at a small clapboard house isolated by lush tropical forest, Price told Danny they never use the harbor. "Not enough going on there. At night the docks are abandoned for the more popular café's. We use a private dock and have our own charter boat that takes tourists back and forth every day to the different islands. It works perfectly Danny! There are people working on their boats and loading supplies at any given time through the night. We fit right in!"
Price was pleased with the house and the location. He called to have their things brought from the youth camp to the house and he began to make a list of things needed to supply the house for at least a short stay. Price decided they would settle into the house that night and 'school' for Danny would begin first thing in the morning.
Price couldn't talk fast enough wanting to share his genius with Danny! Danny on the other hand was desperately hoping the wire was working. As Price continued to give many details, he left out all names.
"Director Lee is approaching the floral greenhouse, Mr. Price," a young boy of about fourteen alerted.
"OK, just take a handful of the boys with you, I don't want to shut anything down." Looking to Danny Price added, "You stay here and learn. I'll give the Director some flowers for his office and get rid of him. Shouldn't take too long."
Danny was grateful he was left alone, but he was still cautious of the fact he was most likely being watched. Casually strolling among the boys his eyes finally set on what he was looking for.
"Kaeli'i," Danny spoke softly and did his best to keep the fact he knew the boy from showing on his face.
Tommy looked up and was shocked. "Danny!"
"Stop!" Danny quickly added before Tommy could react.
"I'm undercover and you don't know me. Are you alright?"
Not sure how he felt Tommy didn't know how to answer. He decided for once he would use the truth. "Why did you give up on me? The Punana's and you...you all gave up on me."
Danny couldn't begin to understand what he was hearing. Not only had they all written to Tommy, they had all been sending special packages regularly. The tone in Tommy's voice was one of defeat. "I don't have time to really go into this. But you have to know we have all sent letters and packages from the very beginning Kaeli'i! I can't go into it all with you right now. You trusted me, please just don't let go of that. When this is over, I won't leave until we talk."
Tommy looked at Danny as if he were undecided. Not having time to do this properly Danny plunged forward.
"I need your help Kaeli'i."
"So that's it," Tommy answered in defiance. "You try to soothe things over hoping I'll help you. Forget it man....you can just forget it."
Danny reached for Tommy as he pleaded, "You got it wrong brother! Look, Family Services won't allow any of the Punana's visit you and I haven't been able to make it over. But we all have written you and we have all sent packages to you. You've never replied, but we never quit! I don't know what's going on and I haven't time to find out right now. But I DO need you to trust me and I DO need your help." Danny looked around to make sure that he had not been overheard. Seeing that he hadn't, he wasn't willing to take up anymore time. Not only for his cover, but he also knew he was jeopardizing Tommy's safety. "In or out brother?" Receiving no response Danny continued, "Look if you can help me without getting into any trouble I need information, anything you can get me. Talk to some of the other boys."
"We don't talk to each other Danny! I can't get any of that for you, they'll send me to prison or kill me!"
The intimidation used by Price against these boys hit Danny full force. His anger boiled at the way he manipulated lives and destroyed them. The fact that Tommy was so adversely affected made him sick.
"You're right, I don't know what these people are truly capable of. Try to stay clear OK? And please don't give up Kaeli'i, don't give up on me."
Danny wasn't sure if he reached Tommy and he wasn't going to risk being with him any more. He turned and walked away not sure what more he could do until this was all over. Tommy would have to trust him...that's all there was to it.
Danny called Steve as soon as he got back to the house. Price stayed behind to check on some things before he would join Danny for dinner. Danny knew he would barely have time to get to the house, check it for security and call Steve, but he had to try.
"This is what we have so far Danno. With the information you've uncovered and what we have, we were able to find out how the operation works." Steve spoke sitting at his desk looking out at the full moon in the sky. "Ends up Brighton owned Jones, Keegan and their group. He turned them over to Price before he left. This way he still owned the cops and could keep an eye on Price. I believe his intention is to come back when the heat dies down, take back his operation, and move in on Price. I have no doubt there are monitors at the greenhouse on Brighton's payroll. I don't know who they are and it's my guess Price doesn't know either. I just can't believe Brighton wouldn't have something set up there."
"If Brighton has monitors on his payroll Steve, then I guarantee you Price doesn't know about it. He brags that no one at the facility is in on the operation. So my guess is Brighton planned it that way. Price said Director Lee was approached about the greenhouse idea and then the idea and Lee were passed on to him."
"That's what doesn't fit Danno," Steve missed the exchange of ideas he always had with Danny. Danny was sharp and he helped the team hone in on their theories. Steve especially liked the one-on-one exchange with just the two of them. He would be glad when Danny was back.
"Sure it fits Steve. If you only knew Price and he's not a complex man. Ego runs him like you wouldn't believe! He has so much pride in what he does, that he fails to see what's happening around him. I've been using that and it's worked like a charm!"
"So if Brighton knew it also, he would have used it as well! I bet that's it then." Steve nodded thinking of how shrewd Brighton was. Price wanted to make a name for himself and he wanted it quickly. That was the perfect mark for Brighton.
"I'm sure there are a few camp monitors who know about Brighton and the operation there," Steve continued. "They would have been ordered to watch over everything. That way when Brighton is ready to take it back, he already has his men in place."
"It's funny...Price has his caretakers warn the kids that some of the camp monitors are in on it. The kids don't know which monitors are involved and which aren't so they never offer any resistance or say anything in fear they would tell a crooked monitor. If only Price knew how true that was!" Danny thought how bittersweet the whole set up was.
"OK Danno, now I really want you to be careful! Not only do you have to worry about Price and his so called caretakers...but you have some unknown camp monitors to worry about also!"