The Missing Piece in Ranger's Life
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Chapter 18
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Ranger's POV
As requested and just as I expected, Rodriguez had done a thorough background search and an intensive military history for my three mission team members. Tank walked in as Rodriguez walked out, raising an eyebrow at me in curiosity. I indicated for him to sit in the guest chair.
"Rodriguez sure knows his stuff, not that I ever doubted it. I had him do an independent search on my three mission team members and it confirms my own previous search."
"Did they have any plans as they transitioned into civilian life?"
"They each have a fixed abode, and interestingly enough, they all have pets. Now, of course, you know from experience how good pet therapy is with your kittens and cats. Miguel also has rescue cats, one of which is deaf. Thiago has huskies, that talk and howl, you know, the ones with blue eyes. And Rex has lizards and bearded dragons. All three are single."
"How did they take the offer?"
"Their reactions were as expected. They were surprised, and honoured to be asked, and quite relieved for the option. I gave them a month to consider the offer while they decompressed further into their home routines. Acclimatising to civilian life takes time, and it's different for each individual."
Bobby and Lester sauntered in, pulling up a chair each up to my desk.
"So, they're on board with the idea?" Lester asked. I nodded.
"When I asked them what they'd like to do they hadn't really thought much beyond just being home with their beloved pets, recovery time, and perhaps connecting with family. One suggested a possible bucket list but hadn't given it much thought as yet. But when Thiago mentioned an island getaway, somewhere warm with palm trees, no jungle or desert, white sandy beaches and the blue sea, and babes, the others agreed. Of course, some of those islands also have jungle, but, you know, not the kind of jungle we recently experienced. They decided to head south to the Caribbean, together, to watch each other's six. That will do them a lot of good."
Tank smiled, recalling his island getaway not so long ago. Lester and Bobby grinned. We all knew that look as he hummed quietly.
"In the meantime, I can get the medical appraisals and reports from Doc and follow up with any further PT and OT, if required. From what you said, Rex sustained the more serious injury. Hamstring damage, right?"
"Yes, he did. That's a good idea, Bobby. Thanks. We were damn lucky. That last ambush could have been … worse. Tank, man, you did well in sending Pedro. I was so relieved when I saw his cheeky grin. Thank fuck we had that final discussion on what ifs and alternate exit plans if and when things were to go to shit. Just as they did. Thanks, man."
"De nada. You would have done the same if our roles were reversed."
I nodded. "Totally."
"By the way, how did that Bernie guy go? Your target. Was that legit?"
"Yes, it was legit, just that those assholes fucked with his scenario. From all accounts, he's safely surrounded by a loving, supportive family. He's settled well with strong therapy support. His wife is a remarkable woman. She served two tours before she became pregnant. She's his rock. His therapy is covered for as long as it is needed. As you know, civilians can be quite traumatised by such a frightening kidnapping ordeal."
They all concurred. Lester looked a bit uncomfortable, so I watched him and waited him out. He fidgeted a bit and then looked at me with what I recognised as regret.
"Spit it out, Santos," Tank went for the direct hit.
"Yeah, well. I wanted to apologise for kind of stuffing up the take down by interrupting the plan, when that awesome broadcast flashed on screen. You know, when I said, "Lula Morelli? You married Lula?!" We were just gonna walk away so they would mutter and declare everything at the counter. But, I just blurted that out. I mean, Lula Morelli?"
Stephanie would have been impressed as Tank rolled his eyes, and chuckled, shaking his head.
"Actually, that worked in our favour. It triggered that fiery volatile Morelli temper. Besides, Hector captured Morelli's rant, in Italian, exposing all their deeds. Along with Lula's comprehensive evidence and transcripts, they are so done for. Totally fucked. At ease, Lester."
We all grinned.
"Our Stephanie is very talented, what with that texting to Morelli as Lula, that brilliant news bulletin and the comprehensive translation of the fucker's Italian rant. Yeah. Fucking awesome." Tank said with pride.
I had to agree on that. It seems that Stephanie and Tank have a great connection given the wink and knowing looks for her cues of when to text and that awesome bulletin. She nailed it.
After explaining about the texting to Morelli by Stephanie, posing as Lula, Lester caught on. "Fuck yeah! Brilliant idea. Is that how we were able to get inside that café diner and in position while he was … distracted?"
"Yeah. His brains were all over the place, you know. Such a dickhead douchebag. I got to hand it to Gazarra with his honeymoon and conjugal visits remarks. Fucking hilarious."
"Hm. Yes. According to the paperwork, they were married in Brunswick Junction. Hector was able to tap into one of the security cameras, confirming their departure, both looking like they had celebrated beforehand with liquid refreshments."
"Perhaps some Dutch courage for the asshole!" Bobby chortled.
"So. Tell me, what's happening on the streets of Trenton?"
"I had a meeting with the Police Chief, while you two were off-line, handing over all the evidence we had collated for the Morellis' state crimes," Tank said. "I explained the nature of the treason and treachery with their conspiracy. I mentioned how the military courts would take precedence, the upcoming courts-martial, and the list of federal charges. Yeah. That had him reeling. To say he was furious, was an understatement. They'd all been conned. He was astounded how someone like Morelli, who was generally considered a "good cop", would go off the deep end, totally, in such a bizarre manner. But he agreed, Morelli's desire to work alone enabled him to achieve such a betrayal on all fronts. There would be a thorough review of procedures as a result. Disclosure of the serious and specific federal offences was for his ears only. He agreed to suppress the details and information, at our request, and by that of the General, until the media shitstorm hit the headlines."
"Ooh yeah! That will be interesting." Lester chortled, rubbing his hands together with wicked glee.
"Can't wait." Bobby muttered. "Their "golden boy" is dirty, dirty and dastardly evil. Oh, the shame and dishonour. Bring it on!"
"We have had the displeasure of a couple of dramatically pathetic visits from Mrs Plum, demanding to see her "kidnapped" daughter. She was so pseudo-concerned that her daughter might have Stockholm Syndrome, although she called it "that Swedish Syndrome" because we, the alleged "thugs and criminals living in this building", had brainwashed her daughter. Big Dog and Robin from the TPD sent her on her way, warning her not to drive or they'd have to charge her with DUI. Edna called Frank both times to collect Helen and take her home since she had been drinking. That knocked the wind out of her sails. We delivered her car later that evening each time."
I shook my head. Why am I not surprised? She's just too predictable. I glanced at Tank for more.
"Presently, all is quiet on the street. Not even a whisper or a query. But …"
"But?"
"Hector just intercepted a conversation."
The shit-eating grin on Tank's face was priceless.
On cue, Hector entered my office with a matching grin, followed by Stephanie who grabbed a bottle of water before sitting on my lap.
"Hola," he said as he quickly set up his laptop and the speakers on my desk.
Hector's bugs had picked up the conversation with the two Burg Bitches.
"Helen's on the phone with Angie Morelli."
Tsk. They just can't let things be, always conspiring. So, what's new? It was quite fun, in a warped kind of way, to be a fly on the wall. We listened intently. I already anticipated the direction of their discussion, so I wrapped my arms around Stephanie's waist.
"Oh Angie. (a dramatic sigh) I have been to Rangeman and they won't let me in. Those thugs must be holding Stephanie against her will. Kidnapped, or that Swedish Symptom thingy. But, then yesterday, the one in the lobby said Stephanie had gone away. For a vacation perhaps?"
I raised an eyebrow at that disclosure, but Tank put his finger up to halt my temper.
"Part of the plan and subterfuge, Boss."
"Now that is interesting that you should say that, Helen. Joey dropped off his dog, Bob, for us to look after, just the other evening, saying he was going on a little vacation!"
Angie Morelli's voice had an edge of excitement to it.
"Vacation! Yeah right," chuckled Tank. "That's one word for it. But he'll be "vacationing" for a very long time! Compliments of the Federal Justice Department, fucking asshole!"
Everyone laughed at that. Morelli's incarceration will not be a holiday. That's for sure.
"Oh, my goodness, Angie. I haven't seen Stephanie for a while and she hasn't come to dinner when I invited her. I think Stephanie and Joseph might have eloped!"
That was well-timed as Stephanie was taking a mouthful of water and she choked and gagged, and coughed, spluttering with water going everywhere.
"Invited?! Summonsed you mean. Pfft. Eloped?! Ick! No way, thank you." Stephanie huffed. I smiled at her taking umbrage.
"I was wondering the same! So, we will have to cancel the booking at the VFW Hall."
"Oh no! No. Don't be too hasty. When they come back we can have a proper Burg reception, just as it should be. I blame Stephanie. Such a strong-willed girl. I bet she suggested they elope! Useless child! Always such a disobedient girl. She should take notes from Valerie."
"Ugh! As if! Saint Valerie."
And there was another Stephanie interjection with the classic rolling of her eyes. I smiled in amusement.
"Well, Helen dear, look at it this way. What has been ordained and prophesised is about to come to fruition and, with that, we can count on grandbabies within nine months!"
"Fruition?! Oh! That is just so GROSS!"
Once again Stephanie choked and gagged with that revolting prediction. I gently removed her water bottle and sealed it before putting it on my desk.
"There will never be Morelli spawn emerging from these loins!"
Stephanie snorted with disgust in response to their plans. The indulgent grins on the men's faces was evident.
My poor Babe. I nudged her, with a wink, gently patting her tummy.
"Mine," I growled. Her warm smile was radiant. My touch calmed her instantly, and also the Beast within with that gorgeous smile.
"Hallelujah!" Helen continued. "But she will have to give up that ridiculous job and working with those criminals and thugs. It is unbecoming a Burg mother. She needs to come to her senses and tend to Joseph's needs, like a proper Burg wife."
Another gagging sound from Steph had all the guys chuckling, as she thrust her fingers near her open mouth, followed by a disgruntled growl.
"We can take turns to teach her to cook, me with just the way Joseph likes his spaghetti and lasagne, and, my special manicotti."
To be honest, it was sickening listening to these two plotting Stephanie's future without any input from her or consideration for her needs. With each remark she tensed and twisted. Oh, Babe. Do sit still. This is torture.
"Holy shit! These two are fucking crazy." Lester remarked with utter disgust.
"And of course, I can teach her to make a nice pot roast to be ready on the table by 6pm sharp. Timing is everything. And baking. Like a good Burg housewife, she has to know how to bake as well. And cleaning. Together we'll have her trained and conditioned in the proper manner before the first bambino is born. Oh, Angie. I am so excited. I can't wait until our special news hits the Burg. Oh my!"
Everyone was laughing with that. Oh yeah. The news is going to hit them hard.
"Oh yeah. Special news, Mommie Dearest!" The sarcasm was pitched perfectly at her mother.
"They really have no idea. The proverbial shit is about to hit the fan, BIG time," Lester smirked.
An incoming text had Tank grinning broadly, with a quirk of his eyebrows.
"Stephanie," he asked enquiringly, "how do they get the daily newspaper? Delivered?"
She grinned at Tank's sly question, understanding what he implied.
"You got that right, Big Guy."
"Well, that settles it. I think we need to intercept said deliveries to those two households, and the other Morelli's. Let the infamous Burg read the news first. According to this text from the General, it will be a full front page spread, with mugshots inside on page 3. The Trenton Times will need to do an extra edition to meet the demand."
"HOOAH!"
"I'll organise the patrols to remove their newspapers," Bobby volunteered.
"Let's disconnect their phones, with a scrambler perhaps, so that no one informs them." Lester suggested.
Hector nodded his approval with a sly wicked grin. Keeping the Burg from contacting the Plum and Morelli households is absolutely essential.
"I can fix that. Land lines with disabling interference and scrambled reception for their mobile phones and Internet connection. I'll need some man power to be in position to enable the scramblers in close proximity to each house."
Everyone was actively on board eager to be part of the sting.
"Babe, where will they get their newspaper if it is not delivered?" I asked, already planning a reception strategy. Tank saw my look and nodded.
"They're likely to go to Giovincchini's while they get some fresh meats, ham and sausage and then the Italian People's Bakery next door. It will be busy in the morning. Everyone likes to get their fresh cuts of cold meats for lunch early."
Her face lit up, delighted with the impending scenario.
"Tank, I recall we had a request from the Whole Foods Markets manager to check their security and make a quote for new security cameras with the butcher, the baker, and the florist together as a package. I reckon tomorrow morning would be an opportune time to inspect and install the systems. Hector are you free?"
"On it, Boss. I will confirm our plans immediately."
Tank eagerly strode out and into his office to make those arrangements happen. He knew I wanted eyes and ears, as well as evidence of an epic encounter. That the task is a designated security instalment is a bonus, an opportune bonus.
Hector grinned and nodded in the affirmative. Stephanie immediately cottoned on to my plan.
"Does that mean Ella and I are going shopping tomorrow morning early, Batman?"
"Yes. Ella will have a shopping list ready."
After giving me a quick kiss, Stephanie literally skipped out the door to find Ella. They would have a protection detail already on site, just in case things go pear-shaped.
I love it when a plan is poised for action. We finalised the finer details with Hector. Bobby coordinated the newspaper pick-ups. Everyone was keen to help set up this new sting. I sent out an email informing staff of the special event, with an overview of the strategies and tactics to be used. Secrecy was of the utmost importance, and, this was, without question, a task for which we excelled with our vast experience in our role as security experts. I scheduled a meeting in the conference room for those involved and other volunteers. Of course, everyone involved would be paid, even if they volunteered.
Bobby had charted the newspaper collectors, to happen simultaneously, and included the list from Hector of the scramblers for each of the households. Lester added the teams doing the instalments at the Whole Foods Markets with location placements. We were already familiar with the layout and had obtained the blueprints previously.
While Tank informed the Chief of Police, I contacted Eddie Gazarra, having kept him apprised of the upcoming exposé, now primed for the morning edition of the Trenton Times. He was encouraged to keep Shirley away from the newspaper and maybe intervene with her phone. He was great, deciding he would remove the sim card before she got up. Keeping her in the dark was just as important. Sending her to Giovincchini's was easy as that was already on her agenda. It was not his day off, but the Chief had already scheduled him and Big Dog to patrol the markets. He chuckled, enjoying being included in the subterfuge. He would explain the details to his partner, Big Dog. They were keen to be involved he said.
The next morning arrived.
Tank already had an advance copy of the Trenton Times front page and the page 3 exposé. Holy shit! It was epic. Fucking awesome! The General really made sure that his legal editor contact had the front page scoop, backed up by the Chief of Police. The chief editor was keen to expose corruption in the community and if this scoop was so big, he was happy to make a killing by printing an extra edition for the promised high demand. Scoops like this make dollars in his eyes.
The air of anticipation was palpable. After a quick breakfast, Stephanie was dressed casually in jeans and a red t-shirt, and spike-heeled black boots, not in Rangeman black. Cal drove them to the site, as a fleet of Rangeman vehicles headed for the same destination, but parked at the rear as they would normally on a job, entering by the service entrance and the loading dock. The manager was punctual and was happy to see our efficiency. Everyone took up their positions and made quick work of the tasks. Teamwork is a wonderful thing. They lingered, cleaning up as they waited for Stephanie and Ella to arrive, with Cal, as always, him being her partner.
Almost at the same time, as Stephanie and Ella arrived, they were greeted warmly by her cousin Shirley the Whiner, Eddie Gazarra's wife. I had Stephanie and Ella miked up so we could hear and record close conversations. The exchange was pleasant with the usual Burg politeness. Shirley complained of not seeing the newspaper yet.
"Oh. Really?" Stephanie remarked. "Busy getting the boys ready, I suppose."
"Yes, and Eddie had an early shift. And then my phone was playing up, so he's going to fix that for me. I can't believe how much I rely on my phone nowadays!" And off she went.
There was already a buzz of excitement in the market area, a lot of muted whispers and sniggers. Oh, these ladies were anticipating a showdown. Then a hush descended on the shopping area as first Angie, with her mother-in-law Bella Morelli, arrived, shortly followed by Helen Plum. Bella, scowling as usual shuffled over to the newspaper stand and grabbed one and paid at the counter. The server was bug-eyed and nervously handed her change with shaking hands. She glared at him before shuffling off to sit on the bench next to Giovincchini's.
It was patently obvious that everyone knew the massive revelation that was in the Trenton Times, from the shoppers to all the shopkeepers and servers. Some eyed the two notorious Burg Bitches with confusion, and many made asides while nodding in their direction. The anticipation was so tangible that you could feel the vibrations in the air resonating around. All the Rangeman teams looked busy and seemingly oblivious to the potentially volatile dynamics that pervaded the entire area. They were all miked up. Eddie and Big Dog were near the front entrance, about to enter for a morning coffee and donut.
Helen and Angie exchanged pleasantries, oblivious to the predatorial glances from the local bevy of Burg ladies, waiting like vultures, many of whom were already on their phones. Others had their phones poised surreptitiously for sneaky snaps. Even the shopkeepers and their staff were waiting with bated breath. Furtive glances were ricocheting around the market place.
Someone made a sly remark, bravely, but hidden by the morning crowd.
"Did you see the headlines this morning. Mikaela?"
"Omigod! That was one hell of a scoop."
"Disgusting, I reckon."
"Yeah. Dirty cop."
"It's utterly disgraceful!"
The mutterings became louder but still remained concealed behind the ladies, and some men, who were all now staring directly at Angie Morelli. Helen and Angie looked up and around, quite confused.
"That reminds me, I must get the newspaper. Frank will want to read it with his morning coffee. Somehow our delivery didn't come. Tsk. Such incompetence. I mean, really! How hard is it to deliver a newspaper on time?" Helen with her haughty manner did not impress anyone.
"Nor did mine! I came to get mine at the same time as my shopping this morning."
There was a moment when all the air seemed to be sucked out of the area as we heard Bella Morelli's walking stick hit the concrete followed by a rasping gasp. An ear-piercing screech shattered any further discussions. The salivating grins of the crowd was quite sickening. Evil. Cal moved closer to Stephanie and Ella.
"Here it comes."
Angie glanced over at Bella who was now clutching the newspaper to her heart, gasping for air. She grabbed her rosary beads, crossing herself repeatedly.
"Gesù Cristo! Maria Madre di Dio!" she screamed she over and over again, as she kissed the rosary beads, rocking backwards and forwards. (Jesus Christ. Mary Mother of God)
Angie raced to her side to see what had upset her mother-in-law so much, checking if she was having a heart attack, asking short sharp questions in rapid fire Italian. Shaking her head adamantly, Bella shoved the newspaper in Angie's face, her own face turning red with rage. She glared at the captive audience as tears started to roll down her face.
"Mio Giuseppe! Stupido idiota!" she wailed. (My Joseph. Stupid idiot.)
"Quella puttana! Quella puttana!" (That bitch. That whore!)
Uh oh. This screeching retort was directed with a bony finger pointing at Stephanie. My babe stood firm, unaffected by Bella's undeserved accusation. I noticed that Ella took on a defensive position, just like Cal, covering and protecting Stephanie.
Another exasperated gasp emanating from a pale-faced Angie Morelli had redirected the captive audience's focus. Helen looked at the newspaper. She was horrified as her lips moved silently reading the bold print emblazoned across the front page of the Trenton Times.
TRAITOR
TREASON
CONSPIRACY to COMMIT MURDER
BRIBERY
Trenton Detective and his wife arrested and charged.
Helen's head spun wildly, reminding me of that scene from The Exorcist. Her strident voice was condescending and downright nasty.
"Stephanie Michelle Plum? What have you got to say for yourself?"
All eyes whipped to Stephanie, who stood calm, cool and collected ignoring her toxic mother's accusatory tone. Her body language exuded strength. Proud of you Babe.
"Oh? Hello Mother. I have no idea what you are talking about."
"This!"
Helen shook the newspaper in her daughter's face but stepped back when Cal and Ella intimidated her with their protective stance, causing her to hesitate briefly.
"This! This report. How could you?"
Stephanie remained calm, which was not what any of the Burg vultures expected either.
"How could I what?"
"How can you say that when you are standing here, free as a bird?"
"It's nothing to do with me."
I smiled. Stephanie was not giving anything away. As we all knew, there was nothing to explain. Tank looked at me, his eyes widened briefly, shaking his head. He mouthed, "Fuck!" I nodded. Helen Sanctimonious Plum was about to make an absolute ass of herself. Their captive audience was riveted, hanging off every word, waiting like disgusting parasites for more damning information.
"Why are you here?"
"Just doing some shopping, just like everybody else. What's your problem?"
"Don't give me that sassy attitude. How can you dare stand there and defy me, in front of everyone here? Shame on you! While your husband is in jail for these … these obviously false claims, and you are gallivanting around freely! I can't believe you would do something like that. I thought I taught you better."
"Husband? My husband is not in jail."
That caught Helen unawares. She was breathing heavily still in rant mode, her chest rising and falling, hands on her hips.
"You married Joseph Morelli! I know you did."
This was received with a collective gasp from every person in the area.
"Oh gross. There's no way I would ever marry him. Why the hell would you think that? He's a liar and a cheat, and now he is a thug and a federal criminal, just like it says so on the front page."
Angie had walked to stand beside Helen in support, her body language mirroring her friend. She too was surprised with Stephanie's unexpected replies. Once again, a flicker of confusion crossed Helen Plum's visage before she regrouped.
"Stephanie Michelle Plum! I have had enough of that attitude! I see the rings on your finger."
All eyes were transfixed. I grinned. With her head held high, Stephanie flashed her ring finger, glancing at her rings with a smile.
"For your information, it is Stephanie Manoso. My husband is an honourable man, unlike this thug and traitor." And she poked the newspaper for effect.
With that Stephanie turned her back on her mother who was aghast, her mouth opening and closing like a goldfish, yet still grasping at straws to humiliate her daughter. It was actually becoming embarrassing. The chuckles that emanated from the crowd with the "oohs" and "aahs" were breaking the tension. The phones had been clicking away frantically with photos and more with videos of the crazy stand-off.
"Oh! For Chrissake Helen! Put a sock in it!" Edna scolded her daughter. "You've made an absolute schmuck of yourself. You are such an embarrassment, for everyone to see. You two are a disgrace," pointing at both Helen and Angie, "How dare you accuse my granddaughter so blatantly with your stupid lies and ridiculous assumptions! Read page 3 stupid woman! I'll find my own way home."
With that, as if he was cued for that duty, Lester stepped forward, offered her an arm while taking her shopping in his other arm, and took Edna outside. Applause from some of the elderly ladies, the Edna fan club. Edna smiled indulgently at her chivalrous escort and waved to her friends with a beaming smile. She winked at Stephanie, pride evident on her cheeky face. Seeing her daughter Helen get humiliated obviously made her day.
At that moment a high-pitched keening and wailing startled everyone when Bella Morelli had turned her newspaper to page three. Gasps of horror from both Helen and Angie Morelli were enjoyed by all, given the sniggers and derisive laughter.
The news of reading that her Joey had married Lula, with the not so flattering mugshots, was all that Bella could take. She went to stand up with her stick but collapsed. Carl and Big Dog had already anticipated this and had an ambulance on standby. The EMTs dealt with Bella.
"Lula Morelli?"
"Lula?"
"Isn't she that large black woman from Vinnie's Bonds Office?"
"I heard she was once a ho, you know, a prostitute."
"Oh, my Lord."
The crowd started to disperse and resume their shopping, recalling and relishing the Helen Plum, Angie and Bella Morelli smackdown.
Angie was in shock, no longer present, unable to render any assistance or support to her mother-in-law. She was speechless. Her head was shaking in small shudders of denial. Big Dog gently ushered her over to the ambulance to go with Bella, leaving Helen Plum to face the derisive mocking crowd all alone. Their previously whispered remarks and asides no longer quiet, but audible for her to hear.
Stephanie walked over to me. I kissed her chastely and held her close. Helen watched, still in shock. As we turned to walk away, I saw her gasp as reality hit her.
"You were awesome, Mrs Manoso."
oOoOo
TBC
My Musewas not satisfied until the demise of Helen Plum and Angie Morelli was complete.
With that, we gifted you an extra-long chapter.
We needed an extra day, still mourning the loss of my dear friend Margaret, whose birthday was the day before Thanksgiving. I give thanks to her for inspiring me to write. I will cherish our friendship forever. She would have LOVED this chapter.
I hope you enjoyed it.
Stephanie's POV