July 1, 2010,
Just a quick note here since this is my first effort at fan fiction. While it's fun to write I'm still learning a lot on how to post etc. I want to thank all of you for your encouragement. I means a great deal to me. The suggestions are appreciated so please keep them up. I will try to answer as many as possible.
As usual the majority of the characters belong to Ms. Evanovich and I don't intend to harm them. Some are my creation and they may get hurt pretty badly.
Chapter 4 Ranger's POV
As soon as I handed Steph's letter back to Tank I started running again. I managed to lose him, I had to find a quiet place to stop and think. When had a mission caused me so much pain?
I've had it. For fifteen years I have kept secrets, gone on missions all over the world, but never could I have considered a mission in my own backyard, destroying treasured friends and relationships. Not that I particularly care what the general public thinks of me, but I care a great deal for those with whom I soldiered, worked and above all trusted. And Stephanie, no words can cover the grief. If she believes I have taught her to fly, well, she has done the same for me.
Soon if not immediately I will get in touch with the general to discuss further parameters of this mission. I ordinarily do not mind working with almost anyone but this situation is out of hand. Lucia, if that is indeed her name is damn near certifiable. One would have to be insane to act as a happy newly wed with her. I will either move her to the fourth floor or I will move to the fourth floor. With new personnel on board who would know the difference?
I need to know where my guys are and that they are all right but I don't even know where to inquire and, I am still supposed to the jackass to end all jackasses. All their trackers are disconnected, they have no identifiable vehicles and they are gone from the apartments. Tank knows I'm sure but how do I get him to trust me enough to tell me anything. It seemed that when he gave me the letter from Steph. he too was through. He may still work in the building but I cannot take a chance on harming him.
But right now the general is the most important person in my sights and I will get to him.
Lester has found a large rundown warehouse on the outskirts of Newark. Luis went with Lester as he has lots of experience in building maintenance and is almost a genius at making a more than acceptable building out of an almost wreck. The first floor can be converted into office space using cubicles instead of offices. The electrical will take some time as so much equipment will be necessary. The second floor will be used as a barracks type living space for all the guys. And the third floor will be an apartment for Stephanie, Ella and Luis. There will be very little luxury in this building but it will be serviceable. The outside will be renovated, so that it looks as if it is a successful business. The name on the building will be Triple S, Superior Security Systems. C.M. Roberts Pres.
Plumbing and a kitchen become the immediate priority so everyone can get situated quickly. Computers can be leased. Cars can be leased from some old friends of Mooners. Advertising in Newark is the next priority in order to start the business. Since it is not possible to buy all security equipment needed for each job, the down payment will cover that cost until inventory is procured.
Meetings of the group will begin in this building immediately. They all seem to have a sense of safety in this place, and they are still together. With a wing and a prayer, things may go well.