NOIR

Chapter Two

Of High Regard

By Steve Edward

Wednesday, September 6th 1230 hours, South Bound Interstate 85, North Carolina

The brief visit to the rest stop for Zetta had been where the trucker saw the young girl and her mother Joyce. Though the truck driver had tried to look disinterested, Kirika Yumura noted his keen interest and spoke to Mireille, "A truck driver at the rest stop followed Joyce and Zetta briefly. We can assume that Zack Milan is utilizing truck drivers to find us."

Kirika could not risk taking out the truck driver at the crowded rest stop, since anything happening there would have raised a red flag for the searchers. Mireille accelerating to cruise speed replied, "We will have to deal with it accordingly when we can."

The trucker cursing his luck to be driving a rig with a speed governor watched as the van receded into the distance, but he did have the tag. Placing a call to the telephone number on the flyer, he advised the listener to the direction of travel, make, model and color of the conversion van. Giving his name and the company he worked for the driver disconnected and continued south.

An undercover Federal Agent stopping at a T/A Truck Stop in Virginia had come across a discarded flyer about the missing woman and child two hours earlier. The Feds were also listening in when the call came in.

Wednesday, September 6th 1330 hours, Gulfstream V, Atlantic

Kay Milroy clearing with Homeland Security for entry into US Airspace looked at a note from Else, "There is a 767 Freighter ahead with horses going into Brunswick for deplane. If they get there ahead of us, we are going to be delayed!"

The intercom chime sounded and Randy picked up the handset, "Yes Kay. What's up?"

Kay Milroy replied, "Randy, there is a 767 Heavy Freighter with horses going into Brunswick ahead of us. There could be a delay before that government vet gets to us."

Pondering that a moment, Randy replied "Try to make contact with that 767 and ask for a favor. We are faster than them anyway. See how far ahead they are and if we can safely overtake, do so. We really need to get to Atlanta ASAP."

Getting the nod from Kay, Else switched over to the international air-to-air radio frequency, "Barracuda Air 767, Flight 8771 with horses this is Gulfstream Foundation One 972 Sierra, Flight 4558. How copy over?"

Ian White sitting in the co-pilot seat heard the call and the familiar voice then replied, "Gulfstream Foundation One, Barracuda Air 767. We read you, Five-by Five. Hey is that Else Conroy, I am speaking with?"

Else's voice replied, "Yes it is Barracuda. Hey is that you Ian?" Daniel Winters sitting in the pilot seat turned to his partner and raised an eyebrow, "Else and Kay up here with us?"

Else replied, "Yes Ian, it is me. Look I need a big favor. Can we slip in ahead of you at Brunswick? We got one small critter that needs clearance and since you guys are off-loading the cargo there you have got all the time in the world so to speak. Can we take your slot?"

Daniel Winters replied, "Sure why not. How far are you from us?" Else running a quick calculation replied, "We are about 30 minutes behind you. If you make a slow 360 by the time you come back to primary heading, we will be in front. How about it?" as Daniel Winters replied, "Sure let me clear with ATC and you can pass us while we are in the turn. By the way can you guys go up three channels?"

Daniel Winters getting clearance for the maneuver eased the 767 into a shallow right turn, then tapping the specified frequency called out to Else and Kay again, "Hey guys how's the job going?" as Kay Milroy replied, "Rather good. I thought you two were still flying cattle cars for a living. What happened?" Ian White replied, "A stupid drunk in Portland, Oregon is what happened."

Kay glanced at Else and shrugged her shoulders "Well what ever. So you guys are just doing contract flying when they come along?" Daniel Winters replied, "Yeah Kay that's about it. After that cattle car incident, me and Ian had enough; besides we got lay off notices a week later anyway."

Kay Milroy replied, "Well see us on the ground in Brunswick. We might be able to persuade someone that your flying skills are needed." Else turned to Kay, "You think the boss will go along with it?" Kay Milroy replied, "What the hell, it can't hurt to try."

Wednesday, September 6th 1400 hours, Interstate 85, South Carolina border

Returning to the interstate after getting gas, Mireille noted the speed limit to Kirika "We are in the slow stretch, keep an eye out for truckers. Somebody is going to be looking hard for this van." Joyce Milan spoke, "Mireille? Do you think they may know where we might be?" Mireille replied, "Your brother-in-law, likely has utilized truck drivers in his employ. We were likely spotted at the rest stop in North Carolina, but do not worry about it."

Wednesday, September 6th 1415 hours, Brunswick International Airport, Maine

The customs inspector Sam Rawlings stood outside the office watching the examination of the German Shepard. The dog's owner Randy Baldwin kept looking at his watch as the vet seemingly crawled through the exam.

Sam Rawlings knew Baldwin all too well, since it had been him that had provided the airlift for his gravely ill son back in November of last year. The blizzard that struck Brunswick had forced the cancellation of all private air ambulance services and even the renown 'Angel Flight Services' had called to advise that none of their members aircraft could fly into to transport the sick child to Cleveland, Ohio. At least that was what he had heard, until a call from the control tower told them that there was a plane coming into Brunswick to make the urgent pickup.

In the maddening snow storms darkness the barely visible strobe lights of the aircraft as it taxied towards the terminal then turning about, all anyone could see of the plane in the wind driven snow was a lighted opening on the rear then the powerful headlights of that blue Hummer as it charged towards the terminal.

Turning around the vehicle's driver backed the Hummer as close to the terminal doors as possible then exiting he entered the building, the snow blowing in behind him. Randy Baldwin looked at Sam Rawlings, "Say I heard someone needed a lift to Cleveland?"

The doctor and nurse helped load his son into the back of the Hummer and with his wife they got into the vehicle and charged back into the blizzard. Three hours later the Hercules was sitting in Cleveland, as the Hummer carried his boy to the children's hospital and to the life saving surgery.

Randy Baldwin was nearing the end of his rope and spoke, "Ok, I know you need to do things right but is there anything wrong with the paper work?" The vet glanced up and replied, "Have to double check the results sir."

Kay Milroy and Else Conroy having completed the topping off of fuel and pre-flight checks stood with Daniel Winters and Ian White as they waited for Randy Baldwin. Kay Milroy spoke, "So where do you two go from here?" Daniel replied, "Deadhead back to Atlanta. We are going to get a commercial flight back."

Else spoke, "Oh really? So you guys are not flying the 767?" Ian replied, "Nope. Another crew is taking it to Africa after its serviced. Some Saudi Prince wants some Zebra's delivered. We gave it some thought on that and flying skittish racing horses is bad enough. Putting up with wild Zebra's did not sit well with us."

Sam Rawlings slapped the Expedition into gear and peeled out from the terminal, "Mr. Baldwin, sorry about that stupid dork." Randy Baldwin gripping the overhead handle replied, "I guess he gets paid by the half-hour."

Sam Rawlings steering the Expedition towards the Gulfstream replied, "I suppose, but hell everything is in order and you have quarantine capabilities at that farm of yours. There was no reason for him to be such a stuck up. But heck at least your dog can be happy and not be stuck in a cage."

The gathered pilots turned as the Expedition screeched to a stop and Randy with Gregor exited the vehicle. Kay Milroy hurriedly excusing herself boarded the Gulfstream and headed for the cockpit.

Else introduced Daniel Winters and Ian White to Randy Baldwin as he passed the pilots, Randy turned about on the stairs, "Glad to meet you both. Do you have your resumes?" Daniel Winters and Ian White replied that they did. Randy waited for Gregor to climb the steps then followed, "Ok then, you are welcome to come onboard." Else following the men up and folding the boarding rails was helped with securing the door by Ian who spoke quietly, "Is he all ways like that?" Else replied, "He took your measure while we over the Atlantic. He is rather intuitive about people and a rather nice boss to work for. Don't screw the interview up Ian."

Wednesday, September 6th 1530 hours, Baldwin Foundation Offices, Atlanta, Georgia

Martha Edelstein disconnected and hung up the phone. Tapping the intercom button she spoke to Gina Baldwin, "Gina the signs are in place and are operating. They have six of them going." Gina Baldwin glancing up at the wall clock replied, "Thanks Martha. Unless otherwise stated, they are to keep the signs going until 6 PM."

Wednesday, September 6th 1645 hours, Interstate 85, Georgia/South Carolina Border

Kirika Yumura was driving as they passed the first sign which read "M.B. & K.Y. CALL GRMB! URGENT!" Another sign at the entrance ramp to the Georgia Welcome Station flashed the same message repeatedly as well.

Kirika spoke to Mireille, "Randy and Gina are sending a message. We need to call them."

Mireille Bouquet pondered how Randy Baldwin knew they were in the United States much less on this particular interstate, but gave up that thought for the moment as she dialed the private line to the Baldwin Foundation Offices in Atlanta. Kirika counting the sixth sign checked the review and side view mirrors. The tractor trailer had caught up to them again.

Wednesday, September 6th 1700 hours, Briscoe Field, Gwinnett County, Georgia

The Citation rolled to a stop then six men followed by Zack Milan exited the aircraft and headed for the group of rental cars parked near the Fix Base Operations Building. Zack Milan's cell phone chirped and he answered, "Yes this is he. Where are they now?"

Gina Baldwin was Interstate 985 pushing 70 when she could. The heavy traffic was not cooperating. Giving directions to Mireille to get off the interstate immediately, Noir and the object of their assignment were taking side roads. Kirika having finally ditched the tractor trailer that had been tailing them since North Carolina was satisfied that Zack Milan would be in the dark for the moment.

Wednesday, September 6th 1730 hours, Dekalb-Peachtree Airport, Chamblee, Georgia

Giving Gregor enough time to answer natures call, Randy walked with Ian and Daniel as the dog did his business, "It's good that both of you were in the same squadron as Kay and Else. It says a lot about you. The address that I have given you is where you need to report to in the morning. Martha Edelstein is my office manager and she will take you through the steps to get you into my employ. By the way are the offered salaries acceptable?"

Daniel Winters replied, "Mr. Baldwin they are most acceptable." Randy Baldwin seeing Gregor had finished replied, "Excellent. I look forward to working with both of you. Take care for now." Turning about Randy with Gregor headed for his Mustang, the muted rumble of its modified 4.6 liter V-8 echoing in the hanger.

Wednesday, September 6th 1800 hours, Interstate 85 and Interstate 985 Rest Area

Zack Milan thanked the truck driver but cursed his luck. Ducking off the interstate, the van could be anywhere but they were in a very narrow area. Turning to one of his men he nodded and the man walked off towards the truck.

The truck driver about to drive off saw one of Milan's associates wave at him and he rolled the window down and stuck his head out to talk. The muzzle of the silencer pressed against his forehead, he was pushed back into the cab. He never felt the bullet enter his brain.

Wednesday, September 6th 1830 hours, Baldwin Farm, Lula, Hall County, Georgia

Corey Baldwin pressed the remote control then stepped back as the doors to the barn closed. Inside the conversion van, under a tarp and parked between two tractors disappeared from view. When his mother drove up, she nearly ran into Irena's Focus. Running about and gathering the teens she gave them hurried instructions then hot footed it towards the house.

Corey had introduced himself and his siblings to Joyce Milan and her daughter Zetta when they and Noir arrived at the farm. Escorting them into the house, Corey and the twins then concealed the van. The woman and child on the run from some syndicate family having arrived nearly unannounced appeared to be taking the events rather well, but he did note that the mother's apparent lack of sleep.

Wednesday, September 6th 2030 hours, Baldwin Farm, Lula, Hall County, Georgia

His step-father Randy and his mother Gina were in private conversation with Noir and the woman named Joyce Milan in his study. The daughter, Zetta was being entertained by the twins and Ashley. Corey pushing the serving cart knocked on the door then entered the study. Randy smiling stood as Corey handed him a cup of coffee spoke, "Mrs. Milan for the time being, you will stay here as will your daughter. Further travel will be rather risky."

Mireille spoke, "We do have to get them to Arizona. What do you suggest? Commercial airlines are completely out of the picture." Randy replied, "I pretty much figured that. We will use one of my aircraft. This brother-in-law, Zack has apparently utilized truck drivers to track your movements, will be or is already likely in Georgia. He knows Mrs. Milan is here in the state.

Kirika who had Gregor's head on her knees spoke, "If we perhaps flush him out we can draw him to where we can deal with him accordingly." Randy replied, "That will be a last resort, considering what has transpired. I do not want to turn Georgia into a killing ground again. The last time we did that, the Feds raised a stink about it for months even though the end results did play out in our favor."

Joyce Milan spoke, "Perhaps it may be best that I let Zack take me back, but you can send Zetta onto Arizona." Gina Baldwin replied, "Not on your life sister. That nut case will likely kill you then hunt down Zetta and do the same to her. You and your daughter will go to Arizona together."

The door chime interrupted the conversations, and Corey exiting the study, walked to the front door where he found Sheriff Phil Nagel standing. Letting the sheriff into the house, Corey called out, "Father. It is Sheriff Nagel."

Joyce Milan rose with a start, but Gina Baldwin placed her hand on her arm and spoke, "Relax. He is on our side."

Sheriff Phil Nagel removing his hat entered the study and took in the gathering then spoke to Randy, "Well you were not kidding. Hello Mireille, Kirika. Short time, no see," as Sheriff Nagel to a chair and joined the group.

Randy replied, "Let me guess, the Feds figured things out?" Phil replied, "Well they may have put a wire tap on the phone he was using to collect information, which was a good thing. They found out about a van. Bad news is Gwinnett County Police reported they came across a possibly botched truck jacking at the rest stop near the Interstate 85 and Interstate 985 interchange. An officer checking on a rigs driver found him dead. One round in the forehead at point blank range, but they are not saying it publicly but it looks like an outright execution."

Kirika spoke, "Was the truck cab green with a flat bed trailer and have Milan trucking on the side?" Phil raising an eyebrow replied, "Uh yes it was. How did you know that?" Randy spoke, "One of Zack Milan's lookouts apparently. That truck had been tailing Mireille and Kirika since North Carolina. Well that settles it. Zack does not want any eyewitness to the hunt with knowledge of their participation."

Joyce Milan spoke, "Mr. Baldwin that was one of my company trucks. So it will be likely difficult in any sense for us to continue by ground. I will accept your offer of taking us to Arizona." Mireille rose from her seat, "Randy we need to speak alone."

Gina took the guests to the sitting room and closed the door to the study leaving Randy and Mireille alone. Mireille Bouquet returned to her seat, "Randy, I told you briefly about my background did I not?" Randy nodded, "Yes you did. You were the daughter of a Corsican syndicate family member." Mireille replied, Yes I was. My father operated with the approval of the Soldats. When the demand came for me to be turned over to the Soldats, my parents refused and along with my brother they paid for the refusal with their own lives. I did tell you who killed my parents?"

Randy spoke, "Yes you did. I am well aware that Kirika Yumura was directly responsible, though she acted upon the orders of Altena." Mireille spoke, "Zetta is at or near the same age as I was when my family was murdered. She has lived a sheltered life, not knowing the truth. The grandmother desires above all else that she remain unaware."

Mireille continued, "The grandmother has the ability to shield both once they arrive in Arizona. She wants to raise Zetta in a different life than being a daughter of a late mobster. Can you understand that? I prefer she not suffer the same fate as I did and see her family slaughtered." Randy Baldwin looked at Mireille Bouquet and into her eyes that had seen so much over the years. Randy replied, "Mireille. I will do my best to see that Zetta and Joyce make it to Arizona alive."

Thursday, September 7th 0700 hours, Richard B. Russell Federal Building, Atlanta

Randy Baldwin entered the Federal Building and after passing through security took the elevator to the offices of the United States District Attorney. The meeting was to the point. The ADA sitting at his desk spoke, "Mr. Baldwin, I can see where this has concerned you. However what makes you think that Zack Milan will attempt to kill Joyce Milan and her daughter?"

Randy replied, "If you have not had the local news on you should. A company affiliated with the legitimate operations of the Milan family, a trucking concern had a driver murdered yesterday evening at a rest stop in Gwinnett County. Among items found in the cab was a flyer, which had the likenesses of Joyce and Zetta Milan taped to the dash board. I believe the Federal authorities have come across a similar flyer?"

Hiram Grey studied his visitor and replied, "You are rather well informed. However there is the matter of the murders in New York. Can you enlighten me on those?" Randy treading lightly replied, "I have no direct knowledge of who were involved though I was given a copy of the crime scene report when I was in Paris. I found it interesting that whoever carried out the murders did so rather quietly."

Hiram still probed, "Well for the record there were two accomplices, from all indications they were men. Our field agents believe they have former military experience probably Special Forces training to boot. It was a text book incursion based on how they took out the exterior patrols so easily. As to the deaths of the guards, the autopsies indicate considerable force was applied to the victim's necks."

Randy Baldwin knew exactly how much force had to be applied to snap an average adult's neck. Kirika or Mireille would have handled that easily. He spoke, "Well whoever did it the operation did so to free Mrs. Milan and her child Zetta."

Hiram replied, "Speaking of Mrs. Milan and her daughter, you are not here just to pass the time. Do you know where they are?" Randy replied, "Yes I do. They are now in the custody of my Foundation so if you would be so kind as to call of the Federal hunt for them I would appreciate it."

Hiram Grey replied, "Randy, look they are part of a murder investigation. They can be considered material witnesses. I have to talk to them!" Randy Baldwin spoke, "They did not see anything take place. If you like I will present a sworn deposition to a Federal Magistrate making that much clear. The judge will turn them loose before you can even say hello. However here is a deal for you. If I can deliver Zack Milan to you can you forget ever even hearing the names of Joyce and Zetta Milan?" Hiram Grey paused a moment to think the offer over then replied, "Ok deal. I'll call off the search for the widow and her daughter and they can be free to go anywhere in the world you want to take them. However if by chance you ever do find out who carried out that little operation at Laurel Hollow, New York please let me know. I sure would like to shake the man's hand. Oh one other thing Randy there is something that you should know before you leave." Having digested what the ADA had to say, Randy Baldwin said his goodbyes to the ADA and left the Federal Building with the written guarantee in his brief case and headed towards his office.

Thursday, September 7th 0730 hours, Sheraton Hotel, Atlanta, Georgia

Zack Milan frowning over his breakfast plate listened as one after the other the men who had been out searching reported that the van had not been located. Zack replied, "Well search harder. They did not get past that rest stop, and there are only so many hotels that they can be hold up in. Do it!" Throwing his napkin down in disgust, Zack rose from the table and left for his suite.

Thursday, September 7th 0830 hours, Baldwin Foundation, Atlanta, Georgia

Gina Baldwin greeted her husband as he came into the suite and with him headed for the main office. Along the way he called out to Carl Greensand who came and joined them. Closing the door, Randy sat at his desk and opened the briefcase.

Removing the documents, Randy showed them to Gina who smiled, "So they rolled over?" Randy replied, "Yes, but with some conditions. I have to bring Zack Milan in."

Carl groaned, "Oh heavens. I thought we were staying clear of this?" Gina replied, "That changed last night." Carl sighed then replied, "Oh let me guess? We have the Milan's stashed somewhere?" Randy replied, "Yes. At my farm," as Carl Greensand shifted in his seat spoke, "I am not even going to ask how you found them, but may I ask why sir?" Randy replied to Carl, "It's personal. Let's leave it at that."

Randy spoke, "Carl. I need some input. Can you make contact with whoever handles contacts with the syndicates in New York and have then see what their feelings might be about this situation? I don't want to have any how shall we say unknowns coming into the picture. It is complicated as it is."

Carl Greensand replied, "If you are worried about other 'families' becoming involved, you have no worry. This should be and will be considered an internal squabble so the other 'families' will avoid involvement unless it starts to affect them directly. However I'll make some calls to get for what the feel is. It will take a couple of hours."

Randy replied, "Then do it. Thanks." Carl Greensand departed the office to start making calls. Gina Baldwin spoke, "Have you decided when you are going to take the Milan's to Arizona?" Randy replied, "Yes. Tomorrow, by the Hercules since I am going to use the Hummer to transport them to Hartsfield-Jackson as they will never have to step foot out till the Hummer is inside."

Randy sighed, "Gina, what about Mireille and Kirika?" Gina replied, "At the farm with them as requested. Mireille was a bit down on how you managed to connect them to New York and Kirika well she is her usual self. I suspect that the Milan's were not still here, she would be out and about looking for Zack."

Randy replied, "Kirika will have her chance today." Gina raised an eyebrow, "Oh really, just what do you and Noir plan to do?" Randy replied, "We are going to have a little fun at the expense of Zack. Besides we need to find that trigger man who killed the driver of that truck, so we are going to use the van as bait." Gina rising from her seat spoke, "Well what ever you do, try not to make the local news." Randy smiled and shrugged as Gina left the office.

Thursday, September 7th 1130 hours, Baldwin Farm, Lula, Hall County, Georgia

Angelina Lopez had prepared the lunch as served the guests. Joyce Milan enjoying the fried chicken spoke, "Mrs. Lopez? This is so wonderful. Could I get the recipe?" Angelina replied, "Oh please call me Angelina, and of course I will be happy to give you the recipe. It belonged to Randy's grandmother." Mireille Bouquet and Kirika Yumura entered the house and joined Joyce at the table.

Joyce spoke, "Ms. Bouquet. Did Mr. Baldwin decide yet?" Mireille replied, "We will leave in the morning. Randy is going with us. We will be flying in the Hercules." Joyce pondered that statement, "Is that a cargo plane?" Kirika replied, "A rather special Hercules." The rumble of the Ford Mustang caused two dogs to trot past the kitchen. Kirby, a Jack Russell Terrier following the larger Shepard waited at the door as Randy Baldwin entered the house. Greeting their master, the dogs followed Randy into the kitchen.

Randy sitting down at the end of the table greeted the women then spoke, "Well, Carl Greensand made contact with his old pals in the NYPD and as expected the other syndicate families are staying well out of it. He learned that at least two turned down a request from Zack wanting to borrow some 'man power'. It also seems Mrs. Milan that the families were growing concerned with your welfare and that of your daughter. Someone apparently contacted your grandmother, Dora who took it from there."

Mireille replied, "Zack violated an unwritten rule." Randy replied, "It looks that way. While Peter was endeavoring to bring a true sense of legitimacy to the Milan and Marino family lines, Zack a thrill seeker and one willing to break laws to gain wealth through illicit means which would have eventually put Joyce and Zetta's lives at stake because of his actions."

The door bell rang and Angelina left the kitchen to answer the door. The numerous footsteps coming down the hallway caused Mireille to look at Randy questionably "What is going on?" Randy replied, "Some extra insurance. Gentlemen, ladies come in and join us. Mireille, Kirika, I will explain as we go along."

Rounding the corner was US Assistant District Attorney Hiram Grey, two United States Federal Marshals (both women) and Hiram's stenographer with Sheriff Phil Nagel bringing up the rear.

Hiram bowed slightly then spoke, "Mrs. Milan, I am ADA Hiram Grey. Mr. Baldwin said I could speak with you. Joyce Milan nodded and replied, "He told me that this would help with certain matters. Anything that can help get Zack out of our lives would be helpful."

Leading the way to the sitting room, Randy closed the door then turned and addressed those present, "ADA Grey dropped a bit of a bombshell during my visit to his office. Joyce, I am sorry to say but Peter was an undercover Federal Agent." Mireille Bouquet turned to Randy, "For how long?" ADA Grey replied, "For nearly 15 years. Milan was his true last name and he was directly related to the Milan family. He chose to go into government service as a young agent. When things started to go haywire along five years after he became an agent, Peter went back to the family and began dismantling illicit activities."

Joyce replied, "That would have been about the time we were married." ADA Grey replied, Yes it was. Peter agreed to marry into your family. According to his handler, it was a risky move, but it culminated with his love for you and his love of both families."

Randy spoke, "Peter's unselfish actions saved countless lives."

Joyce spoke "His death?" ADA Grey replied, "Natural causes. The government did have a separate autopsy conducted and a rather extensive one." Joyce replied, "The legitimate businesses that Peter established with our combined families?" ADA Grey deferred to Randy who spoke, "As far as the government is officially concerned they in fact belong to you. Which is where you have to talk to ADA Grey about, since your involuntary confinement Zack had his way with things and Hiram needs your help sorting out what Zack has screwed up."

Mireille Bouquet abruptly stood and grabbing Randy by the arm opened the door and yanked him into the hallway. Kirika eyed the US Marshals and walked out. Sheriff Phil Nagel spoke, "They have issues sometimes. Just ignore the gunfire if you hear any."

Hiram Grey replied, "Sheriff Nagel are you sure about that?" Phil Nagel helping himself to some coffee replied, "Trust me. You do not want to get in the middle of those three when there is an argument about to start. Randy can handle it," as the door to the study slammed shut. Phil watching the picture frames vibrate on the wall spoke "Well then again, maybe not. Excuse me." Sheriff Nagel walked out of the sitting room and closed the door. Hiram Grey with the US Marshals and his stenographer looked at Joyce Milan who sheepishly spoke, "I only met the two women when they picked me and my daughter up in New York on Tuesday."

The study was sound proof, Phil looking through the window on the door watched as Mireille who appeared to be pantomiming had pressed Randy into a book case. If the yelling that briefly escaped the room as Phil entered the study caught the attention of the Marshals, Phil doubted they would come anyway.

Kirika Yumura ignoring both Mireille and Randy behind her stood in front of Phil Nagel, "No further." Phil sipping his coffee replied, "Try not to damage him please. We still have to get Zack Milan." Randy Baldwin waiting for the tirade to subside spoke, "First off, I had no freaking idea that you and Kirika were involved. It was a pure and stupid guess after I read the crime scene report. ADA Grey thinks that two men carried out the killings in New York, he said so himself. Second point is that you accepted the assignment without informing me, which we mutually agreed on. Third, your own past interfered. Your decision was flawed because of your own family being murdered. You had no desire to see that repeated with Joyce and Zetta. Yes it does hurt to be second guessed, but had not we stepped in where do you think this might have ended? You and Kirika are very good, better than good. You two are among the best. But we all have flaws. Now let me go, as we all have places to be."

Returning briefly to the sitting room, Randy Baldwin advised Hiram they were leaving and to take their time. Gina Baldwin driving up to the farm house, met with her husband. "How did it go?" Randy replied "Mireille got pissed about it."