CHAPTER 20
Having landed at the unfamiliar quiet small private airport Mat dumped his bags next to Robert's, then went back to finish locking up the plane, and hand over the necessary forms etc to the waiting member of staff.
Being left alone Robert picked up his overnight bag and looked around, wondering which direction to walk, there was no obvious meet and greet person in sight. There were a few cars in the car park … empty, and of course the planes … also empty or quietly waiting to taxi onto the main runway. He pondered whether a message would come via the member of staff seeing Mat, and noticed a very official car parked next to the hanger off to the right, and away from everyone else. What was interesting and slightly disturbing ... was he could now see a police officer had just left the car, and was striding purposely towards him. He felt that flutter of nerves when seeing a man in uniform … knowing they very rarely gave good news. He'd assumed Paul would meet them after that mysterious email, then again perhaps not, he'd been given a different number to ring if he needed to. He also knew from Mat that Paul was no fool, but had been hot headed once and could still be a little impetuous.
As the man moved into the light Robert could see this was not just any police officer, and unless there were swat officers in the shadows for his protection the man was alone, and was therefore meeting them ... and decided to walk towards him. Then, hearing Mat's quickening footsteps behind him, Robert knew he'd finished his business and had picked up his bags, so slowed his own pace considering it would be better for this first meeting to be together rather than staggered. And as Mat drew level with him Robert checked quietly. "You sure you there's no contraband in the plane?"
Totally surprised by the question, Mat looked at his friend and quipped back. "No. Only you. Why?" and looked to where Robert was looking, and realising the signifcance added under his breath. "Oh! Now that looks bad." He'd wondered why Robert had chosen that direction as the staff knew nothing about anyone coming to pick them up, and cocked his head to one side considering all things before with a slight grin and sigh continued. "On the other hand, it could mean that our two little birds are on the right side of the law … he's high up so has probably come from a very boring meeting." and continued walking.
"Damn well hope so!" Robert said seriously, while matching Mat's pace, so they'd meet him together.
"Car's not bad." Mat said lightly noticing it for the first time.
Robert could not help himself, smiled and said quietly and darkly. "Once inside never seen again ... see dark tinted windows … Don't they use those for serious offenders?"
"Good evening gentlemen. Follow me please." Jack said, giving no hint that he had heard the last remark as he'd come to a halt leaving a reasonable gap between them.
Robert and Matt immediately slowed to a stop, looked at each other then shrugged their shoulders and Robert asked. "You know us?"
Jack removed his officer's cap so they could see his face, and said, keeping the same tone and expression. "You've been identified." Both words and expression demanded obedience not questions, and they could not anyway as Jack had turned round to retract his steps, then added. "We'll put the bags in the trunk and talk in the car."
As they followed him Mat said quietly. "That's nice to know."
Robert could not resist an even quieter "Yeah, not the other way round then."
"Too small for us both anyway." Mat said smiling, in spite of his sudden rush of nerves as they walked to the back of the car.
They dumped the bags in the trunk, and one of the back doors opened, showing them there had been a light on in the car. But no one came out to greet them, so for a moment the two men stood undecided what to do. They knew there was someone or hopefully two in the back, but it was too small for two or more to get in.
As Jack closed the lid of the trunk, he said in that official tone. "Robert in the front please." and went round to the driver's side and got in, again expecting total obedience from them … he had their cases after all.
"Well that solves that problem." Robert muttered and made his way round to the front passenger's side and got in. He twisted round just as Mat got in, and knew that at least one of their two birds was with them.
Mat sighed got in and shut his door, then smiled recognising the man sat in the far corner of the back seat and asked. "Your idea of a joke Paul?" feeling unnerved having it confirmed that no one could see them, but they could see out.
Jack immediately started the car and slowly drove away from the hanger area while Paul said seriously "No" before asking with a smile. "Wives okay?"
"Yes. They like each other and were last seen planning to spend our fortunes in the shops, as well as having a slap up meal at an expensive dance and diner club this evening." Mat replied feeling slightly better seeing Paul's smile. Then turned his attention to the driver saying. "So, you're a police officer and this is a police car."
"Yes." Jack answered in 'that' tone while glancing in the rear mirror at Mat.
Mat shook his head with smile, he knew it was a daft question come statement, but he hoped for more than a one-word seriously toned answer. Sort of break the ice, get things going… and guessed he should have known better, considering the tone of the orders they'd got earlier ... and Paul's tone as well come to that.
Robert pondered silently really intrigued; from their tones getting information out of this pair was going to be like getting blood out of stone. Yet, the driver had said they would talk in the car, so why the hesitation. The only thing he could do was to follow Mat's lead and push with another question, and asked. "Why all this cloak and dagger act, are Paul and Meg in trouble?"
Jack stopped his smile coming and stayed silent for a moment, ... how do you answer that, 'yes, they are in trouble, but no, not in way you think'. He liked these two; they had walked into an unknown situation, and had not blown up with demands when met with short sharp orders from a strange official, nor had they shouted at Paul. They had coped with banter and were willing to push politely. It showed him how much they trusted Paul and therefore Meg, and it was a trust which went both ways. He had good people instincts and they were telling him he could do likewise, but he needed them to understand just how serious this was, and still give them a way out which would not threaten or compromise anyone.
As they hadn't come to the road yet he could change plans if he got a negative answer or feel, so said in 'that' tone. "Before I answer that one I need you to answer mine honestly and without further questions." He saw two quick nods and carried on. "Have you heard of and understand all the implications of what police witness protection schemes are."
Though not looking at each other Robert and Matt answered "Yes." together and both feeling a lurch in their stomachs … this was more than serious.
Jack was satisfied by the tone and expressions that they did understand, so carried on. "From now on you are part of one. …It means you might have to support a lie for the rest of your lives. Also if you need to move businesses Robert, you will have to do it carefully and, you will be trading and talking with someone you know may never be brought to Justice for serious crimes they've committed in the past. Lives are at risk including your own if you or Mat tell anyone about being here to see Meg and Paul, or anything you see and hear from now on.
Are you willing to carry on ... if not I'll drive to a hotel and leave you to return to your wives in the morning none the wiser, other than needing your silence about the whereabouts of Paul and Meg. … I do mean anyone, which includes Meg's parents and your families. Of course if one of you goes and the other stays, you can not discuss it with the other one, ever." He slowed the car to a crawl and waited.
Robert and Mat looked at each other then at Paul, who gave a slow serious smile and nod to confirm it was true not a bluff, and he was involved and understood the full implications, and by his smile he was happy with it.
Robert said slowly "And Meg." Paul nodded his answer.
Mat looked at Robert and gave a nod, letting Robert be the spokesman as he was sat by the driver and by the looks of things, the main one involved. Without any hesitation Robert confirmed. "We are in, whoever you are." then commented. "I assume it is legal and you are part of the cover."
Jack increased the speed and smiled, 'Yep there was that trust again' he could work with that and answered. "Yes I organised the protection scheme … my name is Jack and I run the police force in the town we are going to. It will take just under an hour to get there. We can talk as I drive." Before pulling out onto the main road away from the airport to start their journey.
"So, it's not in the town Paul lives and works in." Mat said wanting to get things clear.
"No, next one along and you can look around and admire the view etc just forget afterwards." Jack answered.
This caused Mat and Robert to smile, especially as was evening and getting darker.
"Does Val know, is she all right, and how did you get in this mess little one." Mat asked Paul in a rush of relief and curiosity.
Paul smiled; it was going well, he knew Mat had a temper and could be stubborn, and with a hint of a tease said. "Questions, questions, questions. …Val is fine and she does not know all of it, possibly will not." He turned serious as he added. "How we got here? ... Well, Val could not make the trip to Canada so I took Meg. The new car broke down just outside the town we are now going to. … We were towed to a garage and told the part could not be got till the morning, something about the guarantee. We were given a loan of a car to get us into town. We looked around because we could not get the Canadian hotel on the phone and needed a café to send an email about the delay. Then we met a friend from the past and cancelled the whole thing. Val and I will do it later."
Robert looked across at Jack, who was concentrating on traffic, and asked concerned. "Where is Meg?"
"She is fine and with her partner, who we are going to meet." Jack answered easily.
Robert waited till the traffic cleared and he would have Jack's attention, and said slowly "Right … partner as in business or love."
"Oh. Love definitely." Paul answered with a smile and a chuckle.
Robert twisted round and seeing Paul's expression exclaimed. "Crikey! … that was quick."
Jack butted in quickly before Paul could say any more. "She wants to introduce you to him … all you need to know at the moment is his name is John Smith and he's done nothing illegal. He is the victim being protected."
Robert turned back in his seat eyeing Jack while smothering a cough of disbelief, and knowing he'd not fooled anyone said. "Sorry, but John Smith."
Jack smiled "They do exist and you only coughed because you know that part of the history. If you met a John Smith you wouldn't automatically think of a cover up or assumed name … would you … and if you did you would dismiss it as being too obvious."
Robert smiled and nodded, realising that was true, as Jack carried on. "Usually we choose names with no connection with their previous life and quite often a different country. In this case he has to stay in this country and have something of his own past, so he choose it from his family background and something that was fairly common. As far as the locals are concerned he has no personal memory due to a motorcycle accident."
Robert picked over this information trying to work out what the problem would be … the only thing he came up with, was Meg's father's attitude to her boyfriends but Hank had not, as far as he knew, done anything illegal, and commented. "So, it's Meg going back to her father and someone actually living in Sunset Beach, which is the problem ... rather than her living here with the protected victim."
Jack smiled 'right to the heart of the matter no messing around good.' and agreed. "Sort of yes, but you'll understand it much better when you've met him, and we need your advice as well as cooperation. Because of the accident John is in a wheelchair but we hope he will be able to walk sometime in the future. How well we don't know, but he is and will always be unable to travel as we do."
Mat asked from the back, picking up an idea. "This is not a 'sorry for the patient' or love on the rebound is it. She has had some knocks and family difficulties."
Jack and Paul answered together. "No!"
Mat and Robert looked at each other surprised by the strength of the reply.
On the way over they'd been swapping the histories of Meg and Paul trying to figure out what was going … the worse they'd come up with was the two had decided to run off together with the firms fortune, which both knew was extremely unlikely. Other than that it was trouble between Meg and her father which needed sorting out, before she returned home and once that was done things would be okay. Certainly nothing like Meg meeting the love of her life as these two thought she had.
"Just enjoy the view till we get there." Jack said putting an end to any other questions.
Mat and Robert looked at each other and shrugged then looked out the windows mulling over the little information they had.
After a while Matt suddenly asked Paul "Does this mean things at work will change?"
"Sort of, Meg will be part time and ..."
"Shielded all the way." Robert finished looking back at Paul, who nodded his answer.
"Okaay … we can cope with that." Matt said, quietly reasoning the business was in its infancy so it could change, and it was Paul's to change… sort of.
oxoxo
In the evening light Meg was resting against the bars of the paddock fencing stroking Thor's nose as he gently took the piece of apple from the palm of her hand, Blacky was eating his and behind them Sandy looked on. Meg giggled remembering the fantastic ride along the valley's edge and seeing where the small river of the sunken garden came out and knowing there was a promise of another ride to the massive waterfall of the bigger river at the head of the valley another time. They had cantered along the flat bridleway on their own horses, and then she and Paul had ridden the Shetlands to see what they were like off the leads. She still wondered how Paul managed to tuck his long legs up out the way, and she'd been surprised that the other horses had stood and waited for them, didn't prance around when they joined them again. When back on their original horses Simon explained they were rescue horses, trained to stay when needed and Thor and Blacky would be taught that as well.
She shifted her position as Sandy nudged forward for a piece of apple commenting gently. "Okay then … this one's from John, who is a bit off today … can't blame him really." Sandy snorted and took it gently from her hand, and then Meg reached up stroking his nose feeling a small ache from her ride, and added. "Hey, enjoying the change, guess you'll be back to normal fairly soon."
Sandy moved a bit closer and lowered his head so Meg carried on stroking his head and neck, her mind drifting to yesterday evening. When after showers and changing clothes they'd met up again in the apartment, and friendly chaos ensued as they prepared, then ate the evening meal. Then with general banter and giggles they watched the tape of the ride especially Thor and Blacky, afterwards they had played a board game and everyone vied to move the pieces John could not reach. Although like the night before she could not be with him there had been a gentle kiss goodnight, definitely an improvement on the night before, and then she'd enjoyed the rest of the evening in the hotel with Paul and guests...
"Hey! You've had yours!" she exclaimed as Blacky tried to nudge his way in front of Sandy, she had to laugh they might be small but that did not stop them from trying and succeeding, as Sandy moved back a bit. But her attention was taken by another nudge, this time by a cold wet nose round her legs and the call "Meg." from the other side of the driveway.
Sandy's head came up at the call and he gave a snort, while Meg turned away from the horses with a gentle "Goodnight boys." She patted Shep and made a fuss of him, before making him come to heel and walking slowly across the driveway towards John, who sat just outside the apartment.
As she walked her mind flew back to earlier, she knew John's edgy mood and flare up was not really his fault. He was scared for her safety in the future and of these two men's reaction to him. Who could blame him, hers had been hostile and that was due to their history. These two were strangers to him. He also had that guilt about her family's and friends' reactions should the truth ever come out. Not to mention his need to know from someone outside his 'family', that he had the right to his life and not to challenge his brother or bring him to justice.
She'd not seen him awake in the morning because of his drugs; she'd just popped in before going to the club with Paul. It had been interesting and fun with the different groups of people throughout the day, and had managed to sort a few things out. She'd resisted the temptation to ring him knowing the need to make things normal as possible. Paul had stayed with Mandy and Jack at the hotel, and she'd gone back to the apartment and found John quiet as they chatted about her day. Simon and Jackie had then left them to have their meal in private, and that was when the tension grew and the eruption came.
Now as she got within touching distance John looked at her, and said gently. "Sorry I didn't mean to snap. … Volcano erupted." then with a nervous edge asked. "We'll be okay?"
"I know … and it is okay." She said, gently resting her hand on his arm, but there was still the fact she'd walked out on him again. As they'd flung words at each other she'd remembered Jackie's words, and walked out hoping he'd calm down and see her point of view … that there was nothing to worry about.
She'd got to the other side of the driveway when Jackie had come out with pieces of apples for the horses and reassuring words. Shep had done his job, had gone silently into the other apartment and warned the others something was up. Simon and Shep were with John while Jackie stayed with her reassuring her that John needed to hear her views, even if it felt like hitting a brick wall at the moment, and she'd done the right thing to walk out. Then Jackie had left to finish clearing things, and getting things ready for the meeting … the reason for the argument.
John looked at her and gave a sigh, knowing she'd feel guilty when it was his fault, and reassured her. "You were right to walk out when you did ... sometimes an empty room is the only thing that stops me."
She could not let him take all the blame and said firmly. "Hey, I yelled as well." then smiled adding. "Anyway Shep stayed so it can't have been that bad."
John knew that smile and felt better, and admitted. "He walked out once but lay by the sensor to keep the door open … needless to say Simon came in very carefully." There was a quiet gentle "Oh yes very carefully." from Simon who was behind John, which made John smile as Simon carried on. "Jackie's set things out for hot drinks and cakes … I think that's her answer to everything."
Meg couldn't help smiling at the thought of Shep's actions, and said remembering. "Like my Mum's drink of warm coco." then added with confidence so he would understand. "It will be all right."
John gave a nod, but voiced his fears that started it all, hoping she would understand that everything felt fragile to him. "It's just the net is getting bigger … from only Jack and family to you, Paul no doubt Val, now Robert and Mat … where does it stop Meg. … From the possibility of a year at most … to now a whole future with you and possibly a family, but at a cost. … It only needs one little slip, or a twist of fate like the last few days and your family and or you would be in danger. … What if these two say no and you have to walk away from them all … or from me."
She was right beside him in an instant, and put her hand on his shoulder and felt him rub his face gently against her arm as he sighed. She could understand that fear, but she would never leave him now … and they gained strength from each other in that touch. She could also understand his unsaid worry that he was in fact becoming his twin, because he was manipulating people to his wishes … just like Derek as Ben was doing.
Moving back so she could look at him properly, and in spite of his tinted glass she knew as their eyes met he would see her love as she spoke. "They won't say no because we are doing the right thing ... you are doing the right thing. Are you going to wait inside … you shouldn't get cold."
The fear washed away and his voice was soft but positive. "No … I need space and air" He saw her change of expression and gave a short laugh. "I know it's big inside …but it's the walls …they are still there. Simon here can wheel me in while you chat with Robert, assuming there is not a gasp of horror even with my glasses on."
Meg laughed because she could hear the tease in his voice, and looked at Simon who nodded with a slight smile telling her things were really okay. It was not just a show put on for her.
Then Shep barked and bounded a few paces up the drive, as a car turned off the main road and started its slow drive towards them.
John called Shep to heel while Meg watched ... and as soon as the car stopped she walked towards it.
oxoxo
The driveway was bathed in a subdued light so the occupants of the car having silently taken note and admired the hotel, could turn their attention to the group gathered on the driveway.
Jack brought the car to a halt outside Jackie's apartment rather than John's, reckoning everyone needed a bit of a walk to the meet and greet, and wondered what might have happened. He'd expected everyone to be inside, though that might make John feel trapped ... so things might be all right…
Robert watching Meg leave the group while unclipping his safety belt and asked. "So that's John who's the other guy?"
Jack brought his thoughts back and answered. "Simon, my son-in-law he helps my daughter look after John. At the moment John needs to be pushed rather than do it himself as he is having treatment for spasms in the back muscles. He has very slight intermittent feeling in his legs, but no movement. Shall we go gentlemen?"
They got out the car and Robert went straight to Meg and giving her a hug said. "Hey … you know one of these days you are actually going to get to where you say you are going. Everything all right?"
Meg broke from the hug with a laugh and smile. "Yes, and thank you for taking a chance on me ... I want you to meet John The man I would marry if I could." She stepped back and walked towards John and Simon knowing the others were following, when she was close enough she put her hand on John's shoulder and they looked at each other and smiled, before he turned his attention to the group following her.
In that short hug and greeting, Robert noticed the brightness of her smile and something in her voice he had not known before. While she'd worked for him she'd been cheerful, but this was different and it made her seem whole and her words intrigued him. As he saw them together there was no mistaking her love for this man or his reaction back. It was that of deep and tested love with trust ... a lot of trust. The type of love and trust he had for his wife and her family, gained over time and trials. Not the bubbly acceptance of new found love … But they had only just met …no re-met
As they got closer John nodded a greeting but spoke to Simon. "Might be better if we go first Simon." Then to the men. "Thank you for coming … we'll go inside for the introductions if you don't mind." To his surprise his voice was calm, although he knew he was being weighed up and his nerves were back a hundred percent.
As John spoke Robert stopped in his stride and his mind chunked … he knew that voice, had heard it last week, face to face. Then it raced through possibilities as he started to walk again silently ticking them off. … The hair was streaked with grey or white and the glasses hide his eyes … can't check height because of chair … third brother, cousin surely not … Hell! Twin pretending … Jack would not know … but Paul … he said friend … Meg be fooled … no, no way … not with that smile … her words 'the man I would marry if I could' shouted at him the only possibility. … Hell! …Jack's words "he is the victim" … Damn! … No wonder they were trying to be careful.
oxoxo
In the apartment Simon wheeled John over to his place between the sofas and then started to leave saying. "Jack, buzz if you need us we'll be next door."
Jack nodded and pointed to the others to sit on the sofas. Meg and Paul sat either side of John, Jack sat next to Paul leaving Mat and Robert to sit on the last sofa, so they could see them all easily. Shep sneaked through the gap over to his place in front of the fire and lay down, so he could watch them all.
Robert spoke first as everyone was settling down. "I'm Robert and this is Mat, Paul's cousin. John would you mind removing your glasses please." His was sure in his mind now what must have happened, and it shocked him because he knew this man had had everything taken away from him, and every word that came to mind and wanted to use had a double meaning.
John shut down on his nerves, which had been growing to screaming point since Robert's hesitation in his stride. Simon had turned him away from the others so he'd not been able to see Robert's expression as the man thought things through. Nor could he tell what they were now, so he silently removed his glasses and waited for the accusation.
Robert nodded and glanced over very quickly at Meg, then back to John and knew he had to put the man's mind at rest immediately. Keeping his voice gentle but showing the respect he had for Meg said. "John, Meg you have my full support. … I recognised you because of your voice and the obvious love you have for each other. … Tried and tested love not the bubbly love I thought might be the case. … I have no idea what your brother put you through, but I'm glad you survived and Meg has found you."
Meg smiled her thanks and acceptance, it was what she'd hoped for from him, and wanted to put a hand on John's arm but knew he didn't want that yet... he needed his own space for the moment.
John stayed still and silent as the words started to sink in and he started to breathe again.
Robert gave a slight shake of the head as his mind sorting out all the implications, one shouting out louder than the rest as he carried on. "I guess a lot of people in Sunset Beach have been lied to." John nodded but stayed silent waiting, knowing what was to come, Robert said gently hoping somehow to take the hurt away. "I don't quite know how to say this … but I take it Benjy is not your son and your wife knows what has happened."
Reassured now by Robert's reaction, John's nerves and voice was calm as he answered. "I know from Meg you know some of my history, what you don't know is the storm the night my wife disappeared probably saved my life. She married me for my money and met my brother while he was pretending to be me and they fell in love, then or when she got to Seattle. Tess was my brother's partner till then but moved aside accepting money instead of love … … Benjy is Maria and Derek's son, apparently we have the same DNA which is not always the case in identical twins.
If the DNA was different I expect they would have fallen back on the fact I saw her in bed with my brother, her denial on the boat and years of disappearance could be put down to trauma and fear. She knew I would accept Benjy whether son or nephew for his sake. But for their purposes I needed to accept Maria, which I was not wiling to do. Whatever happened I needed to be taken out of the equation as quietly as possible. You should also know that my brother fancied he loved Meg at one time, but I'm not sure if that is still the case. … As far as we know Tim does not know anything about it and loves Tess in the character she is now."
Mat gave a quiet gasp as he listened; he was shocked but could step back from the emotional trauma as he had only Paul and Meg's verbal stories to go by. He knew it was time to put his view forward and said. "You have my support as well. We can deal with the goodies I've brought in a moment. As far as our wives are concerned I'm increasing my flying skills and Robert is taking a well-earned break. I registered under a friend's firm's name and gave several destinations; they know we are okay and have a 24-hour emergency number, which can be discarded after today if you think it necessary.
Meg put her hand on John's and said quietly, "See I told you it would be all right." Then to the group. "Drinks!"
John smiled and nodded. Meg got up and sorted them out as she knew everyone's preference, then brought them and the cakes over as they carried on talking.
Jack smiled and relaxed. "Right let's sort out our plan of action, answer questions as we go. First of all Meg's trip home, should she do it and can you help Robert?"
"Yes to both … I assume you need Meg to go back or your brother might start wondering why she's staying away." Robert felt better, feeling the switch from shock to action.
Jack answered letting John get used to it all. "Yes, usually the people in the schemes are moved out completely, no further contact at all … we cannot move the Cummings family without causing speculation. So Meg has to go back at least twice, but only if you think it will be safe. If you don't think it safe, we will have to think of a good cover story."
Robert thought for a moment. "I can be around Meg while she's in Sunset Beach as I will be there anyway … I helped her last time so they will not be surprised when I fly her in and fly her out. … … Her father is much more relaxed now, so everyone is expecting her back next week. … What you might call crunch time for him, of course if that goes all right, back for the babies birth if not before … even back for good because of the shop and family. They might even think I'm trying to keep in with her in case she came back, after all I made it no secret I liked her work. Providing Hank does not muck things up Meg needs to tell him that his past reaction is not the cause for her leaving."
Jack liked the way Robert was facing the problem and with Mat's reaction they were good choices. "Hopefully we can come up with a solid reason for her absences. How close are you to John's brother?"
Robert smiled, he was reluctant to use either name for the brother … one he had no right to it, the other name could confusion, and both cause pain. But he needed them to understand how things were and where he stood with that brother. "We know each other in passing as businessmen ... same groups, meetings that kind of thing … not drinking buddies … I'm in Seattle most of the time. I suppose I go in twice a month for a couple of days, but I also pop down if there is a difficulty, it's an expanding company. I think it would be odd if I suddenly cut him off which I would not."
He knew this was going to get a bit twisted even in his mind if he got mixed up, and paused then started again. "For my part I know about … umm John's history in Sunset Beach … well I thought I did … I guess you know my history through Meg. She was bright, quiet in some ways and we chatted a bit about her past, and when I came back from Boston I wanted to find out more about it. … I knew bits through AJ but that was mainly working reputation rather than social. With the internet I could read old newspapers and of course because of AJ chatted to Bette, but nothing obvious, … once you start Bette off about the past there's not a lot that will stop her … in a nice bubbly way."
Both John and Meg smiled agreement, so Robert carried to reassure them. "She's very happy John, AJ's very good for her, in fact life has been going a long fine for nearly everyone in Sunset Beach. … …Your brother seems content and very happy, businesses doing well … he has drifted back to The Deep when they needed a Stand-in Manager, but nothing on a full time bases. Of course his private finances are not known, but I don't see any sudden drop in spending or any rumours running round, so he must have similar instincts to you."
Robert hesitated and caught John's slight smile and matched it realising he knew and understood his difficulty, so relaxed a bit and admitted. "This is difficult, but I would say he is doing a good job of being you. … He has a small circle of casual friends, his mainstay seems to be family which is not surprising anyone. Thinking about it Ricardo and Antonio, they are acquaintances rather than pals that's possible due to Carmen's actions regarding Gabi, it has unsettled the family. He looks after his daughter, who is thriving, while Maria paints and with Tess and Annie help deals with The Gallery. Benjy is doing well and has many friends, quiet, polite lad."
He stopped himself just in time from saying 'takes after his father', and changed families. "As for Meg's family Casey and Sara are fine, Sunset Sisters is doing well, Joan and Hank are doing well at the Shock Wave. Hank seems to be more relaxed, he is quite close to Benjy, and thereby Maria and your brother but not a friend friendship more a business one … You know the type of thing … comes in with Benjy and while the child is being feed, talks about how things are going in business and the town, which is natural as they are in the same groups etc.
So Meg, you would have to keep a barrier but not an obvious one, and be prepared to meet the family in the Shock Wave as well as in town of course. … … There will be a 'do' at The Deep, but it's a casual affair so you need only show yourself, have a couple of drinks then leave … That would be a test with all your memories … but on the other hand you will also have your friends around you. Tell me what time you are going and I'll make sure I'm around, AJ and Bette will be my cover if I need one. … … John, can I ask when the switch took place."
John nodded, he expected it and knew Jack would explain in detail later. "Jack can fill you in later, but the condensed version is September 1999 I went to Seattle and never came back …stayed in a basement with two jailers. … … My body was to be found in Canada with a different name and history … a dropout suicide. … Just north of here, after Christmas their van was involved in an accident, Jack found me in the back badly injured. The jailers are dead, but as far as my brother is concerned everything went all right. … … That is, I died in Canada, the Jailers received their money and disappeared. Before he left me, my brother said he was going to tell Maria that I died in September in Seattle, he had no reason to think Maria would turn him in as they loved each other."
Jack added gently. "In fact, between September and Christmas, John was kept alive in case his body was needed to prove his brother was 'Ben'. His brother gave him false information about what was going on in Sunset Beach, which meant when he came round from his coma he had a lot to deal with. John's hair colour is through shock of the accident, glasses are just part of the cover. … We might have to add a hat to that, after all people travel all over the place, Meg proved it by turning up here."
Robert nodded feeling a shiver go through him, and was quiet for a moment taking in not only what was said, but what was obviously left out. Not only that if the twin found out he'd survived and had Meg's love, his obsession would be stronger, especially now he had Maria, fortune and children, all of which would be taken away from him. Of course, John would have to prove everything, and said. "Right … Is there any medical difference between you and your brother, something that can be traced back to childhood to prove you are who you are?"
John glad to be moving on to other facts, nodded yes and continued. "The doctors who treated me after my accident have a report that my eyes are clear from scratches. My brother has a scratch in one eye, Dr Tyus Robinson found out it when he examined my brother, while he was pretending to be me the first time round. Tyus thought he must have missed it in the previous examinations, it is only a small one and does not affect his sight.
At the time of my first kidnapping I had been suffering from bad headaches not realising it was our twin connection; I should have twigged because nothing seemed to cure them. But, I thought Derek had died and I was just reacting to the stress around at the time. … He had to carry on pretending he was suffering from them to cover for lack of knowledge, he had not thought of drugging me for my memories and information that time. … Checking the dates should prove I was in the warehouse, also Meg was with Tyus at the time so could act as a witness, but no doubt a lawyer could twist it somehow. I doubt the original medical notes from England are around, and trying to get Tyus's records could cause ripples. That is of course if he made a note, he might not have."
Meg said quietly "Tyus has left Sunset Beach but the records would still be in the hospital. We could find out where Tyus is and get a statement, but I agree with John it could cause trouble."
Jack nodded his agreement.
Robert saw the point and voiced his thoughts. "Okay so we leave that for now. What we must make sure is that your brother feels secure about his past and future, and you need to know whether I can still work in Sunset knowing the set up. Well yes I can because I think you and Meg deserve love and life … of course I would not move my business as it would cause a stir and loss of money. … Mat you were wondering where to station a plane." Seeing their expressions he stopped.
Mat gave a gentle laugh and explained. "Paul and I have family scattered around the world, but most are scattered in the States and one Aunt in particular likes to have a plane on standby for them to use. She's decided there must be one on other side of the mountains and suggested Seattle … I reckon we can place it in Sunset rather than Seattle, say its cheaper and a quieter airport, she's seventy odd and likes the idea of travel but very rarely travels herself. … We have one in Kansas, ready to go but has not been moved for five years. The relations there usually use commercial or drive as they combine it with other things, or of course as in the other cases they have their own anyway. The staff in Kansas do other things which can be dropped if the phone rings, we can do the same in Sunset."
Paul gave a chuckle and said quietly "Oh dear old Grace, she has a reputation as being as mad as a hatter but extremely rich so no argues with her."
Mat nodded then carried on. "John if you're wondering why I'm willing to do this … it's to say thank you." And gave a slight smile and nod in Paul's direction, as he explained "You did something none of the family could … … straighten Paul out. We had all done our best to show we loved him and he had a good head on his shoulders, but all he did was to throw it back at us. We had sort of disowned him and instead of hitting back at us and go upwards, he went further down and away from us. We knew he was broke, jobless and chucked out of his friends flat and were wondering how to pick him up without causing more trouble. You did it for us, we heard he had a job at the nightclub and stood back and waited. Somehow you managed to make him see he was worth something, and now he's up with the best of us, whatever he decides to do for the future will be fine with me."
Paul gave an embarrassed smile, which John met with a nod and a smile.
Mat watched and knowing enough had been said on that point, carried on. "By having the plane in Sunset Beach we can pull Meg's family out in a matter of minutes if they just come as they are, or hours if they need to pack. As Robert is known to them and visits the town, he can keep an eye on things and give phone confirmation if needs be. That would mean we would need to have 24hour phone contact, but I assume we can manage that through the hotel"
Jack already anticipated that one. "Yes. This is my wife's hotel so all you need to do is ring her or the police station both are manned 24hours and ask for either of us, say it's to do with John and it will cut through everything else that's going on. They have that instruction at the hotel anyway because they filter John's calls, so as not to disturb him. They are absolutely trustworthy"
Robert was finishing a mouthful of cake before stating. "Meg has my 24hour number, I use for family it works in the same way. In the unlikely chance it is being used at the same time, the call is automatically put through to the office 24-hour phone. Say it's an emergency concerning Meg and they will cut through everything as well. I know a couple of police officers and Judges in Seattle who will listen to me, and can move very fast when need be … what about Ricardo and Antonio?"
Jack answered, "Not knowingly involved, so we might have to move them as well. The main thing we would want to do is to swoop in on John's brother and isolate him, before he could do any damage to anyone … that includes his children. So a tame SWAT team might be useful." Jack added with a smile.,
"Yeah, a 'quiet' early morning wake up call might be nice." John said with a smile. "But I expect he's got an escape plan already and waiting, with or without his family. He knows about the medical records and would not want to tangle with the police, in case they have my fingerprints from the first kidnapping. If either of us dies Jack has orders from me to go in and sort things out, protecting the children and families would be top priority of course."
Robert smiled and nodded, then asked. "Jack, do you have statements that can be faxed or emailed to me or to the Judges, or should we have copies kept in a safe ready to be used?"
"Yes we have statements, and no, just in case the safe is broken into or seen by another party when the safe or file is opened for some reason. We'll need a 24 hour fax line as well. Deal with that later."
Realising the smaller details would be done later when they were on their own Robert checked out another thought after accepting the point. "Okay … But, what about money John. … To be honest if it was me I would be spitting blood the fact he has it all."
Meg answered with a slight smile. "He has the money that was paid to the jailers, that was five million and another five he took off his brother in June."
"Ah!" Robert said with a smile remembering the fallout. "Yeah, AJ mentioned that ... gave your brother a headache for a while … that was sneaky, but never to be done again."
John sighed with a smile. "Pity … but you're right."
Jack explained with a smile. "We called it a sting operation ... As the money came from savings rather than current cash it could be classed as his money. Whereas money earned after September would be his brother's money."
Robert raised an eyebrow as he thought of the implications of separating the twins' finances.
Mat looked mystified so Paul explained, while John voiced his own fear. "We need to know how much you think my brother and Meg's family need to know about her life now. She said she was going to Canada this weekend, she'll have to say something as she can't suddenly back off now, especially as Hank is changing his attitude to her. … My brother may start to get inquisitive about any caginess and that's when he is dangerous."
Jack put forward his idea. "She could say the car broke down so they explored the area, possibly talk about riding just not mention which mountain range, State or town she was in. She has to maintain her usual chatter with Sara and family phone calls, which she makes to the Lifeguard Centre that was to stop Hank being able to trace her calls. We were wondering about the relationship would it be too early and if mentioned it would be first name only of course."
Robert thought for a moment and said with a smile. "I think they are getting used to her doing something different to what she first thought of doing. … So a change of job, possibly pressure of work could be used for the lack of visits. The car breaking down sounds good …we all know Canada has a long frontier … hobbies are good as well, it makes it sound natural.
Yes ... she could say she has just met someone or got her eye on someone and doesn't want them to be involved with her past in Sunset Beach yet. … Fragile relationship, even jinx factor ... I'm sure no one close to Meg would question her attitude considering her past. … Umm that could take care of not wanting to show photos via email. If she wanted to lay any fears she could do a group of people with a nondescript background just to prove she's all right and having fun." He looked at Meg and with a slight tease added. "I'm sure her first move to Boston helped the family come to terms with her new independence,"
Meg smiled remembering it and said. "There is of course Sara's stint away from home to prove it runs in the family."
John smiled commenting, "Umm not sure about Sara's bit though, she came home in trouble. But what about work etc. she needs independence as well as cover."
Robert smiled and looked at Mat who took up the plans. "Meg is still registered with Robert in a roving officers' scheme which means all her bills are paid through Robert's office; it gets taken out of her wages. She can use the Office card for any purchases, or if she wants and thinks it safe use her personal card and the bill can be sent to Boston office and paid. It's now linked with our group so nothing will send up alarms.
Any enquires will be sent to you by email and dealt with through the office. Anything needs your signature can come to me and I will send it to Paul or go straight to his office. I've brought a new mobile registered though our Boston office and we can supply new email address and laptop if you want to keep everything separate. Your phone calls can be banked up at the office and pushed through by email and you ring them back on your mobile or at Paul's office when you are there. Paul said something about changes to the office are they definite?"
Meg nodded "Yes one or two days at Paul's and rest here, there is a research job going that would give a reason for me to stay and be around John. Paul got talking and they know I work with him. Everyone here knows John has memory loss so they don't ask questions." She gave a cheeky grin as she continued. "I can just say I've fallen under his spell."
John's very quiet "That's nice ... what about your spell." was mixed in with Paul's chuckle.
Robert smiled adding his agreement. "Sounds good. Okay then, what other ideas and what have we missed out."
From then on they swapped ideas and chatted got to know each other, after a while Meg made a comment to John and got no reaction. Realising he was not really with them, hadn't been for a while she looked across at Jack.
Seeing her silent concern Jack nodded and made a slight movement with his hand to Shep, who'd previously looked as though he was asleep but instantly sat up and then walked over to John. He sat just in front of his master and gently nuzzled his master's fingers, getting no reaction he moved and sat down again, then gently plonking his front paws on his master's knees and nuzzled his nose under his master's his hand.
Mat and Robert with Paul carried on quietly talking but were watching, fascinated but also concerned as Jack said gently but firmly. "John. Shep needs a walk."
Shep gave gentle whining growl, watching and gently nuzzling his master's hands at the same time. John shivered and looked down at Shep then looked up and saw Jack, still feeling fuzzy and not too sure of himself said. "Sorry?"
Jack watched John carefully as he said. "Its okay you zoned out for a moment, not for long though. Shep needs a walk, and I think we should call it a night. Meg, could you press the green buzzer please."
John stroked Shep's head to get himself together as he listened to Jack, then said to Shep. "Go! Find Stephen!"
Shep slid down and backed off a bit before sitting down again keeping his eyes on his master.
John reinforced his order. "Go!"
Mat and Robert had stopped talking and watched expecting Meg to let Shep out, instead Meg smiled knowing Sept would show off, and went over to the panel by the fire and pressed the green buzzer, then went back and sat down resting her hand on John's arm and registering he looked tired.
With a glance at everyone Shep got up and walked over to the dining area and did his party piece … and the door to the outside opened and he bounced out, then the door slowly closed behind him.
Robert and Mat looked at each other smiled, and Mat commented, "That's neat, can he come back in by himself?"
Jack answered, "He could if he presses the outside one hard enough, but he is trained to find a person and bring them back to open it … its in case John couldn't reach his emergency buzzer and no one's in the other apartment. The other door is two way so he can come and go. That outer door can be locked when no one is here and there is a safety device that stops intruders coming in, but the police station being up the drive is a huge deterrent. Shep also knows how to use the intercom on the wall by the fire, that goes to the hotel and if they hear a bark, they know something is very wrong. I'll take you over to the Lodge which is separate to the hotel, your bags have been taken over there all ready. Paul, Meg why don't you have a working breakfast with them at about 7, then Mat can show you the phone etc."
Meg nodded, knowing she'd have to leave but didn't want not just yet.
"Sounds good." Paul said and got up as the door from Jackie's apartment opened, and Jackie and Simon came in, and then carried on. "John I'll see you next week with Val if you think that's okay."
"Yes that's fine, could you tell Terry before you go that I'll ring him just after lunch before Jackie gets her hands on me."
Paul smiled and nodded, then went over to have a quick word with Simon and Jackie while Mat and Robert got up to leave. Mat shook hands with John saying. ""It's nice to know you John, we'll work things out."
"Thank you for coming and helping." John knew he could trust them.
Mat walked over to Paul as Robert also shook John's hand saying. "I'll take care of her John, thank you for trusting us."
John smiled and admitted. "You came with a good recommendation … thanks." Robert smiled and nodded then left them.
Meg knowing she would have to leave as well and wouldn't see him for a while and put her hand on his arm before she got up and said gently. "I'll see you Wednesday night with a few more things. I know we said not to ring but you will if you need to."
John smiled, they had agreed the complete break would be best but if felt like a long time, and knew she needed …they needed to do it, and said softly. "That's asking for trouble, I'll probably be sleeping a lot and we need the break love." Feeling that muzziness he hated creeping up on him.
She could see he was fighting something and said gently. "I know … so think of me on Thor and I'll see you Wednesday for tea about six." She leant over and kissed him, then as she parted she added quietly. "Love you."
"Always" was his quiet gentle reply. And with that she went to join the group, Paul was going to lead them through the other apartment but before they went through the doorway Jack explained. "We use it as a short cut. Jackie's is the front door and John's is the back door."
"Typical! Goodnight Jack!" John huffed loudly back at him, and nodded as Meg waved as she went through the door.
oxoxo
As they walked through the apartment Mat was closest to Jack and asked. "Does John zone out often?"
"Not so much now, used to be difficult to get him back, but as you saw Shep helps bring him round, … we're not sure whether he goes back to the basement or to when he was unconscious after the accident, which ever it was he used to hit out at anyone close and could be gone for hours. With Shep he comes back quietly. I think he got tired physically and mentally which is not surprising considering what has happened in the last few days. All of it good I might add."
"So you don't know if it will affect him walking." Mat asked.
"No, if he manages to walk someone will be with him most of the time anyway, till we know how strong he actually is. He still rests a lot and takes things slowly, what you might do in a day could take him two."
Thinking it over Robert commented. "So it was a bad four months and then the accident."
Jack opened the door out into the hotel garden. "Yes, and then the fight to recover I'll give you the details of it all when we are in the Lodge. Meg and Paul know all that John wants them to know at the moment … he thinks you should know more as you will be the one facing his brother. Meg what are you going to do now?"
Meg gave a gentle laugh as she answered. "I'm going to beat Paul at Pool."
Paul looked aghast and exclaimed. "Hey you're not! … I want my prize you promised."
Mat looked at his cousin and said sharply. "You play fair!"
Paul looked at him hurt, then said. "Of course! But if I win I get the recipe and some delicious cakes Meg makes. She'll be back here on Wednesday evening so I've got to strike now."
Mat shook his head and smiled.
Robert laughed. "I think I know the ones, and yes they are great. … No doubt John will enjoy them as well."
He put his arm around Meg's shoulders giving them a gentle squeeze as he said. "You are a very lucky young lady, and he is a very lucky young man finding a wonderful family to look after him and now you. You're going to be fine." He released her then added with a tease. "Jack, I trust we will be able to see the view in the morning. I know its dark, but the mountains behind and what I can see across the valley it must be stunning."
Jack laughed as they reached the conservatory of the hotel. "Yes it is, and yes you can look. Meg, Paul see you later. … Mat, Robert we go this way."
"Goodnight you two, don't forget 7 for breakfast." Robert said as he followed Jack. "This is a beautiful hotel Jack must cost a fortune to stay in as well as keep; you said your wife owns it."
"Did, but we are now in partnership after some financial help from our mutual friend…" Jack's voice drifted off into the distance.
Paul held the door open for Meg saying. "Okay young lady I'm now going to beat you at pool and no screaming."
Meg laughed as she walked into the hotel.
"Meg I want those cakes! I can't live with out them." He teased in a pleading tone as he followed her hoping it would work.