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"I see no correlation to this task and getting Mr. Bates free." The exasperation was evident in his voice as they staked out Edna's house. After much deliberation on the best way to get the DNA sample that Anna wanted, it was concluded that they did not even need to come into contact with the child. Elsie had remembered, then confirmed visually, that the child's pram was often left on the outside of the house, underneath the house's doorway overhang. At best, the only effort it would take was to gain access to the premises and take off the protective plastic cover that guarded it from the elements. That would be easier than putting together a more elaborate scheme to actually come in contact with the child. This evidence was only necessary to get to the bottom of Edna's treachery. They all knew that for the results to be legal and admissible, Edna would have to agree to the testing. It wasn't the right moment to clue the woman in, and there was no indication yet that it would be used in court, so, accessing the premises was all that would be needed.
"Must you always complain?" Elsie looked at him sternly. She wasn't up to listen to his routine prattling tonight. "Anna wants it done and whatever our girl needs, we will do, no questions asked. So, please be quiet." Her words were said with an acerbity that was not usual for her.
Charles didn't anticipate Elsie's reaction and almost answered back with something snippy himself, but thought twice about it and kept his annoyance to himself. It was his role in their relationship to be the one to complain. He did it often. It was her role to listen to him with disapproval and occasionally keep him in line with a word or two of caution. This was unlike her.
Elsie looked upon him and realized he appeared like a scolded child. She had been too strong. She reached out to touch his hand. With passion in her voice, she explained herself.
"I'm sorry, love. I just can't see her hurting and not do anything about it. I want to do anything I can to make her happy while he's in there. Whether we like him or not - If getting a strand of hair, or snot covered napkin, or the spit and vomit laced fabric liner of this pram puts a smile on her face, as her mother, I will do it. "
Her heartfelt words manipulated all of his senses and suddenly, he felt like such a git for going on about it.
He pulled her in, and placed a warm and subtle kiss on her lips. His dear, darling, and clever wife- What would he ever do without her?
"What was that for?" asked an amazed Elsie.
"For being right and for being the best mum… Now, let's go get that bloody DNA."
They had chosen the cover of night to aid in their scheme and they had planned for her to be the one to retrieve it. She was more agile and the portal and yard to be breached were not very large. Charles would stick out like a sore thumb. Also, their escape story, if caught, allowed for a more believable ruse if it were her in the garden and not him. She was wearing a wrap-across robe on top of her black stealth outfit and had an assortment of transparent zip lock bags in three different sizes to transport whatever she managed to get her hands on. She had a small bag for hair, a medium bag for any clothing or tissues and a very large one in case she needed to take the whole liner itself. Each bag was fastened with a large clip to a belt. She would store the item in the bag and it would hang protected underneath the large robe. Her only other tools were a small flashlight and rubber gloves in the robe pocket, to help her find and handle what she was looking for. A few curlers in her hair and fuzzy slippers complemented her outfit. While it was chilly out, she didn't feel any discomfort, as she had enough layers to cover her.
They had it all planned. Charles was also wearing a robe, pajama pants and loafers. He would come to her assistance if needed. He would play concerned-husband-whose-wife-has-dementia, and they would play-act her having accidentally ended up in Edna's yard.
Edna, the child, and her partner, Niall, had all been observed entering the residence several hours earlier. They had waited to make sure there was no further activity in the house, or that of their neighbors, when Elsie made her move. Charles stayed back several houses, hidden behind a large tree. The lights had been off for a while when Elsie approached the front gate. She gingerly opened the latch and was relieved to find it as the easy sort that made no noise. She observed the external walls of the residence to make sure they had no motion sensors. It wouldn't do to flood the place with lights and give herself away. There were none that she could discern and she walked silently to the target object.
Elsie did not know what type of mother Edna was. Charles had said she was most attentive to her child when he spied on them in the café two weeks ago, but she hoped that attention did not translate to being an organized mother. Elsie never mothered an infant, but she was wise enough to know that it was a full time occupation, keeping after a child, and only one who received much help, or was obsessive-compulsive, could keep all of an infant's items spotless. More so if the toddler was mobile. If Edna was this sort, then, she wouldn't find anything in the pram that could be of use.
She aimed the light on her target and saw the plastic cover. It was removed slowly and put to the side. She flashed the light again, directly on to the inside and was comforted to find a biscuit's crumbs, a soothing toy for toothing gums, and a cloth wipe. This seemed to be a bonanza. Any one of these items could have plenty of baby saliva. She put on a plastic glove and undid the fastening of her robe. She moved the toothing ring into a bag of its own, reckoning this was the most useful bit of evidence, then placed the wipe in the smallest bag. She considered leaving the liner of the pram, but, when she tugged on an edge and saw that it was fastened by Velcro strips to the bottom, she determined to take it too. She gently stripped it from one edge, and then rolled it slowly so that all of the contents were kept within as she unfastened the Velcro. Soon enough, it was in her largest bag.
Elsie was replacing the plastic cover when she heard movement close to the front door. She was so concentrated in task of removing the liner, that if there was any advanced warning, she didn't hear it.
"I'll go out whenever I feel like it," was heard through the door and Elsie panicked. There was only a slim crevice, more of an indentation on the façade, where she could stand against, lessening her presence on the portal. She stood against it, but floundered. Should she run over to the fence and throw herself over? No, she shouldn't. Her body couldn't handle that sort of impact anymore. She was in her fifties and not in any condition to take that sort of action.
The door opened. She kept calm. She remembered the plan. All she had to do was go through with what they had agreed. Charles should be along to rescue her in any moment. She kept to the wall, as tightly as she could. She'd only play her role if he saw her. The man was now fully outside, standing but a couple of meters from where she was. He reeked of cigarette smoke and beer.
"Elsie….," she could hear her beloved calling out. God bless him for being alert. The man, or Niall, looked toward the voice and away from her. Charles called again. "Elsie….." She could see him now too. Niall moved the few steps towards the gate.
"Excuse me sir, have you seen an older woman, walking around here, sort of in a daze?" Niall had not seen her yet and he was not even looking around. Charles' distraction was proving perfect. "You see, she's not right in the head and I'm afraid she's walked out of the house." Charles knew that people, most of the time, if you keep talking, will want to shut you out. That was what he was doing now. Forcing the man to move quickly and avoid getting caught up in something that was annoying to him. "She's my wife, you know. She's always doing this. I should have her institutionalized."
"Nope," Niall answered as predicted, not wanting to get involved. He appeared desperate to get out of there in a hurry. "Good luck, mate," he offered as he walked off, without turning back. He was gone, and Elsie was safe. Charles stood in the same spot until he saw Niall turn the corner. She kept against the wall until Charles motioned for her to come.
When they were a block away in the opposite direction, she turned and kissed him. "You were wonderful tonight, darling."
This surprised him, but he was very proud of himself. "Oh, I did nothing. You were the one who got what we needed."
"Yes, but you were the one who made sure I made it out undetected." She massaged his arms and gave him a bashful look. Nothing turned him on more than when his wife was giving him praise. She wasn't very liberal in doling it out. He best take advantage of this.
"Maybe we need to celebrate how cunning we both are?" Charles winked and put his hand on his wife's neck.
She gave him a smoldering look. "I rather like that suggestion." Her voice was hoarse with desire. "What did you have in mind?"
He wanted to play with Maude and Emma. That's what he wanted. Charles waited no further and took his wife's hand, turning to look for their car.
"Car. Now," he uttered, as he started for their vehicle, dragging a giggling Elsie behind him. There was no time like the present to celebrate.
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William was not who she was expecting might be Vera's lover. He was so gentle and kind and a bit shy. She just didn't see it. Anna rated him the 4th option, when looking at the other men. She still wasn't sure about any of them, but Richard, Michael and Evelyn seemed to have more possibilities. Thus, when Elsie mailed her a side by side picture of both William and Vera in the different coffee shops, she didn't know what to think.
She trudged into the office after a late night of reviewing documentation. She wasn't sure how many hours she slept, but, when she awoke, she was on the sofa with a blanket on her. Surely Mary must have done that, since she didn't remember getting comfortable at all.
The moment she punched her code to get through the door and stepped inside, she was flooded with paralyzing fear. His office was almost at the entrance and his door was open. She could see right through to his empty desk. Perhaps Gwen had already arrived and was hoping for the best, opening the door for him. Her fear was taking over her senses. What if she didn't find the information that was needed to get him free? What if she failed? She stood there and closed her eyes, imagining him back, visualizing that he was at his desk, going over some report, or talking to someone. She imagined his broad, sturdy figure, as he sat back in his chair, as he so often did, as he exuded his aura of confidence and leadership. She could actually see him and her heart beat faster. His image, that of her imagination, was smiling, his eyes crinkling. She felt herself swoon.
"Anna, what are you doing?"
Her heart, beating quickly almost a moment ago, stopped with concern. She couldn't get caught swooning over him. Sooner or later, somebody would figure it out. "No….Nothing," she said quickly as she spun around to see Gwen. She hoped her friend hadn't seen her lovelorn face as she sat there, imagining him.
"You were almost in a trance. Is something wrong?" Gwen was too smart for her, Anna knew - but Anna was smarter and could turn this around.
"No, I just hate the injustice of it all. I couldn't help but think of what happened yesterday."
Gwen's inquisitive eyes softened. "Yes. Me too. I could hardly sleep last night, thinking about where he might be and when he is coming back. " Gwen also gazed into the office with a worried look.
"Are you going somewhere?" Anna noticed that Gwen was carrying several parcels but didn't appear to be heading to her desk.
"I think these belong to Tom and were accidentally placed in the supply cabinet. I just found look like paper clips, but they are actually some sort of engine bit. I was going to take it to them."
"I can go, if you want? I haven't visited the hangar in a while. I'd like to say hi to the guys. I kind of miss working there, if you can believe me." This was the perfect excuse to chat with William and see if she could get more information. "and…I don't have much of an assignment today. I don't have any more lessons to do, and I haven't talked with Michael about a do-over date for my oil rig run.
"Sure – Be my guest." Gwen handed her the packages. "I'll ask Anthony where he wants to assign you, so you have something to do when you get back."
Anna smiled. "Excellent!" She headed out towards the hangar and she gave an internal squeal when she saw William up towards the front. That was perfect. She was sure Tom was in there somewhere too, but this access to her prime target was most convenient. She could maybe chat with him a few minutes before Tom caught wind of her presence.
"Hello William. How are you doing today?" Anna tried to maintain a cheery voice.
William looked up. He looked a bit sorrowful, but he didn't have the liveliest personality to begin with, and thus she couldn't place his mood. Not yet.
"Hello Anna. It's nice to see you. What brings you down here?" He sounded sincere.
"Oh just these little doo-dads." She waved the packages, and then set them down on a little table next to him. "Gwen was going to bring them, but, it's been a while since I came and I asked to be the one to come."
William picked up the parcels with curiosity. "Oh, these are rotor tie fasteners. Tom will be relieved to see them. We are down to half a box." He smiled just a bit. "Thanks." He didn't look too excited. In fact, she thought he looked forced….. Like he was making an effort. His sincerity had waned.
"So how are you?" She didn't have anything brilliant to say that could garner more information from him, so she asked as straight forward as she could.
"Good…" He was without a reaction, and then changed his tune quickly after. "Well, maybe not. I am a little worried about the whole situation with Mr. Bates. I really like it here. I'd hate for this to be the start of something bad."
That's what had him sad? God bless him. But, she thought there was more to the story. This couldn't be it. There had to be a way to get more information. He wasn't as complex a person as the others.
"Yes, me too. I've not known him as long as you have, and even I felt horrible." Anna remembered that William had defended, or actually, refused to speak ill of Vera when she had come to the hangar to get information from Tom that week that she was assigned to the hangar. Maybe she could weave this in? "I wonder how Mrs. Bates is taking the news. Even with the upcoming divorce, I'm sure this is devastating."
William showed no discernible emotion, nothing of shock, or embarrassment. Mmmm…. that was weird. She was sure he would say something, but he actually went back to being sorrowful and quiet. He didn't look like he was in the talking mood. When Anna was just about to ask after Tom, the other mechanic emerged from the spare parts room.
"Anna darling, how are you?" Said in his Irish accent, he sounded positively adorable. He strode over with energy and zeal and gave her a kiss on the cheek. She couldn't understand why he didn't have a girl. He had charisma, looks and a great personality. She ought to set him up with somebody.
"I'm good Tom. Just delivered some things and talking to William."
"William? Good luck with that. A little darlin' stood him up yesterday and you'd be lucky to get a word from him."
William shot Tom a look. He did not want that information known, apparently. He looked a combination of upset and embarrassed. Anna thought he might actually leave.
"What? It's not a secret is it? The only secret is you not telling us who your date was with." Tom was not fazed by William's reaction and winked at Anna, hoping she might continue with the questioning.
Anna was thrilled with the direction the conversation had taken. Somebody stood him up? This was the stuff of her dreams. Tom was the best unwitting ally she could ever hope for. How could she get him to confess? It had to be him. And he'd likely not talked to Vera yet to discover that she had gone, only, both of them got confused about the location. She could have sworn he was into Daisy, though. He followed her with puppy dog eyes all the time she was in the hangar.
"Oh William, don't be embarrassed. I'll not talk about it to anybody. The others won't find out." She reached out to rub on his arm, hoping to sooth his frayed nerves.
He shot her an appreciative look.
Anna continued. "That's happened to me before too. An older bloke I fancied in college, and who knew I liked him, invited me out once, and then didn't show up. I was rather upset for days." Anna invented the story to see if she could get William to talk.
"It was something like that," was all he said.
"He's not wanted to say who his date was with, but he was excited, the poor chap." He patted William's back. "I'm sorry Will. I hope the next one works out." Tom was being empathetic.
He acknowledged meekly, and then excused himself, smiling at Anna.
Being the center of conversation was something he seemed eager to avoid. "I'm sorry. I need to go find something." He took off, leaving Anna and Tom alone.
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"What has you so happy?" asked Sarah when she and Thomas were taking a break in their usual spot. Sarah had observed him all morning and there was something about Thomas that was a bit different. He looked smug, proud of himself, but he wasn't sharing anything with her and it was driving her crazy. For the last hour, she had been trying to drag him out for a break and she finally achieved it. The moment Anthony stood away from his office, she pulled him out.
"What do you mean?" he asked as he tried to keep a straight face, but failed and smiled instead. He loved to make her upset. Not that it wasn't easy to do. Anything would tick her off.
"I know you too well to not know that something is going on. You've got that look where you think you're all that." He was at it again, slyly trying to blow her off. She wouldn't allow it. "You know something and you should tell me."
"Oh, I don't know Sarah." He wasn't going to make it easy for her, even if he had plenty to tell.
"I don't know why I bother with you." Her voice, elevated from her frustration, shrilled as she threw her cigarette to the floor and stomped on it. She turned to leave. If he wasn't going to be candid with her, there was no point in their friendship.
He managed to catch her wrist as she moved away, and this stopped her in her tracks.
"Oh, come now, Sarah. Fits are very unbecoming of you." He smirked and pulled her back.
If his words were meant to sooth her, he failed. Was he trying to be nice to her? He was not a very good friend if she had to resort to such ultimatums to get anything out of him.
"Are you, or are you not going to tell me what you know?" Sarah huffed, and she saw Thomas soften up.
"Alright, but you shouldn't get worked up. I've told you before…" Sarah rolled her eyes. The last thing she needed was a life lecture from him.
"I heard Anthony talking to ABC Leasing. They're the ones who financed our helicopters and to whom we owe a fair amount of money, and I heard him talking to Matthew Crawley too. I think the firm is in trouble. Anthony was very worried and I couldn't access the accounts online. They seem frozen. I believe that Bates Airlift is in for a rough ride."
"Why is that good news, you idiot? I need my job and so do you." No matter what happened to that idiot Mr. Bates, she needed to work, and if the company was in trouble, she didn't understand how that could be good news. Not unless Thomas had something else on the side which she always suspected he might. He never worried about his livelihood like she did.
Thomas breathed in and rolled his eyes, feigning being annoyed at having to explain what did not seem obvious to her.
"Well, yes. But…. I rather think that Vera is up to something. She said we hadn't seen the last of her, and this is only the beginning."
"I still don't get it." Sarah put her hands on her hips and tilted her head, searching her mind for clues as to what was going on.
Thomas sighed. "Oh, Sarah…. You never do."
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"You look much better today than you did yesterday." Matthew wasn't lying. John had another look about him, even if his stubble had grown and his hair was loose.
"It is the power of a shower. I was finally allowed to groom myself. It was less than five minutes and lukewarm at best, but it was enough to bring back some life into me." His eyes crinkled with innocent joy. "What do you have for me today?"
It was not good - Not at all, and he hated to be the bearer of bad news. Matthew hoped that John's positivity could keep itself intact after everything he had to say, but knowing his client, it was not likely.
"John …Vera's lawyer, Mr. Bullock, sent me a package yesterday evening." The lines of Matthew's forehead furrowed and he appeared anguished. This combination of facial expressions heralded the importance of said package and John's heart inadvertently sped up. He remained quiet. "It appears that Vera is countersuing you for divorce and has also made her own petition regarding the partnership dissolution. She has no intention of buying you out. In fact, she is alleging that your embezzlement gives you no right to any of the company's funds."
John did not have an immediate reaction. He sat silently a few seconds. He closed his eyes in deep contemplation and waited for his heart to beat at a normal rhythm once more. A million thoughts were running through his mind at once. Was this about Anna? Did she find out?
At his failure to say anything, Matthew felt compelled to speak out. "Did you hear me John?"
He silently turned towards Matthew. "Did she find out about Anna? Is that what it is? She has proof that we were together?" He didn't wait for Matthew to answer. "….Because, if she did, our infidelities would cancel out each other's claims, although she was first. We would be right back where we started."
"No John. That isn't it. If she knows about Anna, it wasn't mentioned at all and I think that if she knew, she would have used that information as well, so, for now, I rather think that your secret is still a secret."
John breathed in with evident relief. "Then, what is it?"
"She is suing you for divorce for desertion and unreasonable behavior and is basing her partnership dissolution, as I said, on your charge of embezzlement."
John felt his blood pressure start to rise, yet he breathed in to calm himself. "How can she do it?" John was more confused than ever.
"I read all of your incorporation paperwork. If you can remember, the dissolution is only allowed in the case of divorce or embezzlement by either party."
A horrible sensation was beginning to overpower John. That sneaky bitch. Of course she was to blame for all of this. Since she thought it unlikely that he could ever cheat, and he had effectively, over 18 years of marriage, not given her any reason to doubt him, the only other way was embezzlement.
"But….." John sighed, clearing his thoughts. He had dozens of theories camping out in his mind, clamoring for attention, and he wanted to sound intelligent. He pointed his index finger at Matthew, as he so often did, wanting to make emphasis. "I have hope that all of this embezzlement claim can be resolved favorably for me, but, let's just pretend she is sneakier that we thought and that I get stuck here. What happens then? I made my claim against her infidelity first and I registered my claim of dissolution first. Her claim, then, should be superfluous, no matter how I fare in court."
Matthew looked skeptical. "I follow your train of thought and I understand how that would make sense in your mind, but it is not that easy. For the actual divorce, you will likely be the victor. Her claim of desertion would become invalid once the court looks at the timeline and determines that your abandonment was based on your discovery of her adultery." John managed a small smile. His divorce settlement couldn't come soon enough. "The dissolution though, is different. The purported embezzlement goes back historically. The infidelity you have proof of is not even four weeks old. This isn't a matter of when the claim was registered, but when the act took place." John was now crestfallen. "Secondly, and more important - embezzlement is a crime, but adultery is not. In any court of law, her claim would be upheld and yours would be rejected if both claims were pitted against each other. Simply put, she now has the upper hand."
"She won then, didn't she? She told me she would ruin me. She threatened me and now look at where I am." His voice boomed as he increased his tone and waved his arms across the room to make his point.
Matthew could tell that John was losing his clarity and focus and he was becoming desperate. He wasn't even finished sharing the bad news yet either.
"John, there is more to share and it is not precisely good news. I hate to pummel you at once with so much, but you need to know fully what you are currently up against."
"What else could possibly be wrong?" John indignation added to his agitated state.
"I need you to calm down." Matthew stared him down with his steely blue eyes and John acquiesced, a forlorn gloom taking place of the prior building rage. "I need you to be well if we are going to fight this." John nodded and Matthew continued. "All of your personal and company assets have been frozen. Bates Airlift will run out of money in approximately three weeks."
The color drained from John's face. This was the worst possible news. He didn't care if he was in jail, or if he had to live on the streets, penniless, but he could not stand thinking that his beloved company was in jeopardy. Or his employees. He was the master of their livelihoods. He couldn't be responsible for putting them out on the streets.
"Only three weeks?" he asked, seriously concerned.
"Yes. Anthony spoke to me yesterday. Your main operating account is frozen and there is no date for access to be reestablished. Your secondary account has some funds, but not enough to pay for some big lease payments that are due in two weeks' time. Anthony asked for an extension from the leasing corporation and they gave him a week. Even if all of your incoming revenue is diverted to this smaller account, he'll only be either able to pay for the leases or payroll, but not both, unless there is an injection of money."
John was desperate and his face reflected his agony.
"Sell Maggie. Sell my car. I have about $10,000 pounds in cash in my office safe. That ought to be enough for at least a couple of months of payroll and by then, all of this embezzlement poppycock ought to be dealt with."
"The $10,000 pounds will help, but I don't know enough about your business to determine how much it would cover….. Perhaps another week. Unfortunately, selling Maggie and your vehicle is not possible John. That is part of what is frozen by the authorities. "
"What about my house?" He had both index fingers touching each one of his temples, trying to focus and come up with solutions.
"Vera lives there and you signed it over to her, or will, once the divorce is settled. It is really no longer considered your property…..and it too, would be frozen for sale by the authorities, because your name is also listed on the deed."
John rubbed his temple further. "Then what am I to do?" He looked beaten.
"Anthony is looking for a loan, but it will likely be at a very high interest rate, if he manages to find somebody to loan money in these circumstances at all, but…..Anthony suggests another way.
"What is it?" John looked hopeful.
"It's time you took a partner."
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When Matthew suggested Richard Carlisle, as per Anthony's recommendation, his heart almost stopped beating. He did not want to partner with the man, but his options were limited. Matthew urged him to do it. What choice did he have? Money did not grow on trees and he did not have rich friends. Rob must have some money, but with two daughters still in a far off university and the expenses associated with paying their way until they finished, he couldn't ask his friend. A pub business allowed for some gains, but he couldn't possibly have the type of money he needed. Cora had her own money, inherited wealth, but he didn't know how much it was. He and Rob never spoke about those things; he only knew that she didn't depend on his earning at all. They had been through a lot together, but it was too much to ask.
What if he did take it? It was the money they needed to get ahead. If he didn't take it, the livelihood of his employees would be affected. From when he had been meeting with the economic council of York, he knew that unemployment was high in the region. At 8.5%, it was not likely that any of them would find jobs quickly. He didn't want anybody to suffer from this.
If he did take the money, when Anna levied her accusation, the company would be stable again. Richard would be put in jail, he hoped, but he continue to accrue gains on his investment. It hardly seemed fair that he should have a comfortable life when released from prison, whenever that was. Of more concern were the lingering effects on Bates Airlift's reputation. He hadn't asked if the media knew of his arrest, but it would certainly be a story if Richard were arrested too. He could only imagine what the press might say. They would be dubbed the Jailbird owners - or something equally disparaging. The media would never pass this opportunity up and it would doom the company.
Anna. It would be the worst possible treason against her. Knowing what he knew about this scoundrel, it just didn't seem right. If he had to go this route, he knew she would never forgive him and that would be the end of them. That would be the worst type of punishment for him, but if it were necessary to save the company and his staff, wouldn't her scorn be worth it? He had to be held accountable and if that meant he had to sacrifice what they had in the process, he would, no matter how painful.
In the end, he had not told Matthew what he knew of Richard, but urged him to find somebody else to give them a loan. He had requested to speak to Anthony, if possible. Anything was better than this alternative.
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Anna had agreed to meet with Matthew at the pub, secluded in Robert's office. Both concluded that it was the sensible thing to do, rather than her go to his office where her involvement might be discovered. He didn't say much, but led her to understand that his client had approved of her participation. When he arrived, he went straight to the office, winking bashfully at Mary. Mary responded with a smile, much like a nervous schoolgirl. Anna wished these two would get their act together. They both still clearly liked each other. She wouldn't meddle, though. She had no time for another project. All the hours in her day were already occupied.
Once inside, he handed her the first batch of evidence so that she could start making sense of the data. The information was simple. The authorities had provided him a list of deposits made into the Swiss bank account, Credit Suisse, over several years and since the account's inception. There were some withdrawals, in small amounts too. She couldn't tell much about them from in this documentation, but now that they were in her possession, Joe could start to follow the trail.
A thought came to her when she was sitting opposite Matthew. She hadn't finished going through all of Vera's conversation transcripts, but she vaguely remembered an exchange between her and Thomas about Switzerland. It wasn't a secret that they all believed Vera was behind this, but remembering these crucial bits of information would be important to uncover her deception.
While she looked at some of the papers, Matthew spoke to her.
"Do you think you can handle it?"
"This? The investigation?" She didn't want to act indignant with him. He didn't really have any experience with her at all. Why would he know about her or her determination? She just flashed him a smile. It was better to reassure him. "Of course. I can't think of anything else and I've already started. Give me a day to see if I can find a meaning in this."
"I'd like to say to take all the time you need, but, I think we'll both agree that it really doesn't apply to this case."
She kept an amiable smile. "No, it doesn't."
Her heart couldn't handle it any more. Matthew hadn't mentioned Mr. Bates at all, nor anything about her letter or the permission to visit. Just as he had been direct with her, she would be the same with him. There would be no dancing around the subject.
"Did you give him my letter?" She stared at him inquisitively.
A flash of embarrassment passed on the young man's face. Anna reckoned he was still having trouble reconciling himself to the fact that she and his client were together. That, and he certainly did not look like he appreciated being the message boy between them. Or he was the bearer of bad news. She held her breath as he responded.
He sighed and reluctantly answered. "Yes."
"And? When can I go?" It was torture for her not to see him. If Matthew said tomorrow, she would do whatever it took to get there.
Anna knew the answer before Matthew ever spoke. The look of hesitation gave him away and at that moment, she wanted to be as far away as possible. The tears threatened to overtake her, but appearing professional in front of Matthew was her prime goal. She wouldn't allow him to see how his words would shatter her.
"I'm sorry Anna. I can't allow it. Not yet. It's just not safe." He kept on talking after that, explaining about how prison visits were admissible evidence in court, and a whole bevy of other reasons which were likely sound advice to be given by a lawyer, but her head could only contend with the fact that she wouldn't be able to see him. He had said no and her heart almost broke into a million pieces. His voice gave her no comfort, but she kept her poker face. Winning her battle against her emotions was a small consolation for such a disappointment. Deep down, she knew Matthew was right and the last thing she wanted was to cause him problems. Hopefully, this whole ordeal wouldn't last more than a couple of days anyway.
Matthew proceeded to explain about Vera's latest tactic and the shock almost made her fall out of her chair. How conniving! Suing him for divorce and her own request for dissolution, on top of getting him in prison, was not what anybody expected. It was a truly Machiavellian move. If Anna were a writer, she'd propose this be made into a movie. It was too unreal to be believed. All this new information did not mend her heart, but she had to agree with Matthew. She would have to remain hidden.
"He wrote you a letter, though." Matthew was not all work. His words were spoken with care and concern.
Her poker face broke and she let out a restrained squeal. A letter? Why hadn't he started with that? She didn't say anything when she saw the paper coming from his briefcase. Like a dog being offered a bone, she took it from his hand quicker than he had intended and started unfurling the missive.
Before she could say anything else, Matthew offered, "I'll just leave you alone to read it and if you want to respond, go right ahead. I'll go to the bar and talk with Mary if it is alright with you?"
Anna nodded, no longer interested in him.
"Fine. Come find me when you are ready." With those last words he was off.
My Darling Anna,
Can I call you that? I'm afraid that in our rather short relationship, we hadn't gotten to the point of using terms of endearment. I would have called you that very soon anyway, so, I will proceed. I have read your words and they fill me with comfort that you would want to continue to be a part of this mess that has become my life. Knowing you are with me makes all the difference while I am in here and I thank you for continuing on with the case. You will have my eternal gratitude for your efforts, regardless of the results. I couldn't be in better hands.
I reassure you that I have not done this, what has been orchestrated against me. I am innocent. Your letter mentions exposing Vera, and you are right. There can be no other person responsible. While it is I who drove her to this, for all the reasons you are now aware, I feel she has taken her vengeance against me with a force I knew not possible. I fear she may not stop until I am dead, which in her mind is the only fair price to pay. An eye for an eye.
I would very much like to see you. Your presence in this abysmal place would bring me much joy and pleasure, yet, Matthew deems it imprudent, when there is so much stacked against me. Surely by now he's told you of the extent of Vera's legal malice. I very much hate to agree with him, as you are a ray of light in my life, but I feel I must comply with his advice. It pains me, as I miss you very much as well. This isn't permanent, or final. He's promised me to revisit your request in the near future, as things become clearer with this case. Since all mail and phone calls are under just as much scrutiny as visits, he has also made it very clear that we are not to communicate. I cannot write you at will and I cannot call you, but, being the swell chap he is, he has agreed to be our courier if it pleases you to write me back. His attorney privilege allows him to bring in correspondence as documentation and it may be our only way. If I could have it any different, I would. Please believe me. I look forward to the day that we can pick up where we left off.
Love,
John.
Anna swooned. She was relieved that he wanted to pick up where they had left off. Since Matthew had already broken the bad news that she could not visit, his words did not cause her as much pain as they could have. It still hurt, her immunity to pain not having dissipated, but she understood the reasons. She wanted him out of there as soon as possible and her presence could complicate things. Nothing had changed really. Until he was divorced, she was too much of a risk for him.
She took out her pen and began to write. If this was their only mode of communication for now, she would embrace it.
0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0
"Bates, you have a visitor," shouted the guard when John was least expecting it. It must be Rob, he thought to himself and a little joy invaded his heart. He got up from his lumpy mattress and pulled his hair back – as if it could be made better. He sighed when he saw no change after his efforts. The door was opened and he stepped out into the hall, intent on following the guard. He was surprised that it had been managed so quickly. Matthew had just cleared the way for him to receive visitors and he knew that Rob wanted to come, and he had requested for Anthony to come, but Anthony wasn't supposed to come until Monday. Today being Friday afternoon, he though it unlikely that his friend could pull away from such a busy business day at his pub, but maybe he did. Without Anna being able to visit, Rob was the next best thing.
Since he was an intermediate holding facility, not having been charged formally, visiting hours were not consistent. He'd been told that if he made it to an actual jail, the times allowed for it and the protocol surrounding such visits were much stricter. It was a small joy to behold. One had to find the positivity somewhere.
He was shocked when he reached the visitor hall. It was not who he was expecting.
"Richard. What a surprise." His Sales Manager here? Whatever possessed the man to come visit him? This couldn't be good, yet, he forced himself to smile.
"Hello John. I'm sorry I came unannounced. Unfortunately, there is no way to communicate with you so I just took a chance. They let me through." His smile was a bit cheeky for John's liking.
"How lucky for me. It's always nice to see a friendly face and thank you for making the effort." What else could he say?
"I wish it was under better circumstances. How are you doing?" His face actually looked interested. If anything, Richard was a good salesman and he could make you believe he cared.
"As can be expected. I'm just hoping that Matthew and his team can figure out what is going on so that I can get out of here as soon as possible."
"Are you sure Matthew Crawley is the lawyer to get you out of here? I know of others whose reputation for getting the guilty exonerated is soundproof. Maybe you should look at one of those? I could help you get someone to come down here. You need to find the best."
John was getting flustered at Richard's comments. How did he ever allow himself to believe this man was great?
"Matthew is more than competent, and more importantly, I believe in him and he knows me. I appreciate the recommendation, but I don't need any one of those experts because I am not guilty." He was sure that even if he had kept his tone even, his clenched jaw when he spoke gave a way his frustration.
"Oh, I didn't mean to say..." Richard realized the mistake in his words and was trying to clear the air.
John cut him off. "Yes, I know you didn't mean anything by it. Don't worry."
They sat there for a few seconds, without much else to say. It was awkward. They had been colleagues for at least five years and for the first time, John felt like he had nothing in common with the man. What did they used to talk about before? John simply couldn't remember.
A dread started to take hold of John as he searched Richard's face. There was no reason for him to be here except for the issue of the partnership. The man, usually calm and collected, looked suspicious. Maybe he saw it in the eyes that scanned the room, trying hard not to focus on him directly. Or it was the way he ran his hand through his hair, trying to instill his confidence. He was interrupted from his thoughts by Richard's words, bringing the topic forth.
"Listen John. Let me get straight to the point. A little birdie told me that all the accounts are frozen and that Bates Airlift is hanging on by a thread. This pesky business of the embezzlement charge, which I am sure you will prove to be stupid and nonsense in the long run, is causing a bit of a ruckus with the finances in the company. I understand you need a cash injection so as not to go into bankruptcy. I have the money, $150,000 pounds, and it could be exactly what you need to stay afloat. It's time for us to resolve the issue of the partnership. I think you need me right now, and I want to be the one to save us. I want to save Bates Airlift."
John's blood began to boil. The business he created, and had built from the ground up, saved by a man of dubious moral code? The business he had lovingly cared for, brought out of the brink of ruin from Edna's machinations, saved by somebody who assaulted and continue to taunt his beloved? It was all he could do to keep himself from hitting the man for offending him and for saying such things. He closed his eyes instead, intent on counting backwards. That would help him remain calm and focused. As the numbers flashed through his head, he visualized all his thoughts. Richard was right. He was between the proverbial rock and hard place. He hated being there. He had a decision to make. He needed the money. Anthony might find an alternative, but he might not. They were running out of time. Bates Airlift was in trouble. Anna would hate him. His team needed him.
What would his mother, the wisest human he had ever known, do? Johnny, sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing, are the same thing. He remembered she would tell him that when in secondary school he encountered the problems of his youth. He wished she were here now to guide him out of this one.
"John…..Did you hear me?" When John closed his eyes and kept quiet, Richard must have thought he went mad. He had made no attempt to answer and at least a minute had passed.
John opened his eyes. "Yes, Richard. I heard you."
"So? Should I have my lawyer contact Matthew and put together the partnership papers?" Richard looked very eager.
It had come to this. The moment he had been dreading. Maybe he could buy time.
"I still have some things to work out with Matthew, but yes, go ahead. Let's start the paperwork."
And in that moment, John felt as if he were dead inside.
0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0
Anna had been working non-stop for the whole day. She had declined invitations from Elsie and Pops to come over and eat or from Mary to come to the pub so that she could be fed, preferring instead to throw a frozen meal into the microwave and continue deciphering the files, the conversations, and the documents Matthew had provided.
Towards the night, her tired eyes and stiff muscles dictated she should take a break. Sometimes, things came to her when she took an hour or two to do something else. Her body always appreciated it, when she did.
She decided to turn on the telly, having not watched anything since her love had been arrested. As she flipped the channels, she came upon a movie that was just starting. She didn't want to watch anything too complicated; something that would make her think. She wanted romance, or humor – anything to take away stress. It was an oldie, from the late 50's. She'd seen it before, many years before. Her mother used to adore watching the classic, particularly Casablanca or anything with Cary Grant and she had spent many an hour with her mum, swooning at the actors of old Hollywood. These days, when Anna had the occasion to come across one of those movies that was good, she would watch it and instantly feel like her mother was sitting next to her. It was her way of keeping those memories alive. With the void she was feeling since John's arrest, having her mother with her was a great comfort.
The movie was just starting, so she fixed to watch it. It was "From Here to Eternity." It had won several awards, but to her, it wasn't the best movie ever made. It was interesting because it was damn sexy. As the movie progressed, Anna became drowsy. Her eyes couldn't keep up. It was apparent that the sleepless couple of nights since his arrest were catching up with her.
Minutes later, she was walking with John on a beautiful beach. The day was sunny and warm. They were obviously not anywhere in the United Kingdom, probably a beach on the Western Hemisphere, like Hawaii, or the Thai Coast, like Koh Samui. There was tropical vegetation everywhere, not a soul in sight, and kilometers of ocean to behold.
"It's so nice to be here on the beach with you," John added shyly. She could tell he was checking out her body in a bathing suit. It felt nice to be appreciated.
"It's a dream come true," she answered as the water of the waves lapped at their ankles and toes. A holiday with the man you love? What could be better?
They were strolling along placidly through the water, hand in hand, surveying the wonders of nature around them, feeling the coolness of the water every time it approached them.
"We should sit", she added, when she saw how after a while, the challenge of walking on the sand started to hamper his stride. She could tell there was a slight limp about him. Knowing him well, he would never complain, or even bring it up. A little rest might be in order.
They stopped at a small, secluded inlet, laying their towels and things further away from the water so that they could be kept dry.
"Let's go back to the water's edge," she added. "It will help us cool down a bit." John was already showing some signs of sunburn on his shoulders and the tip of his nose. He allowed himself to be tugged along. He didn't say much, but kept looking at her adoringly.
Once they were sitting on the water's edge, their bums and feet in the water, she offered to put lotion on him. She had brought it along with her, anticipating she would want to slather some on him soon.
"Is that for me?" he asked, when she popped the bottle's cap.
"Yes, I thought I'd rub some on your shoulders. I wouldn't want you to be sore afterwards." She took a generous portion of the milky liquid and transferred it to his body. She ran her hand gently, conscious to not irritate any burns he may already have.
"Oooh, that feels nice." Johns voice was humming, an obvious sign of pleasure.
"What does? …the lotion?"
"Hmmmm. No. The feel of your hands on me." He raised his eyebrows and grinned, flirting with her.
"Oh, you like that, don't you?" she had moved to sit on her haunches, slightly back of him, so that she could have a better range of motion. She reached deep and across his body, touching every bit of skin. She was rather taken with him too. Although she had concentrated on his shoulder, sometimes her hand ran across the hairs of his chest. Liberally sprinkled on his front, this feeling left her wanting more of him.
She heard him moan deliciously, louder this time, as her hand continued with her magic. He must have been fully protected with the sunblock by now, but she didn't want to remove her hands from him. He shifted his body slowly until his head was aligned next to hers.
"I'm going to kiss you now," he announced, and she let him. His arms encircled her waist and he slowly tugged at her, pulling her forward until she was nearly on his lap. He continued kissing her deeply. They were by themselves, having seen nobody else on the beach during their walk. When she wasn't expecting it, Mr. Bates skillfully moved them to where she was now lying on the beach and he was hovering above her. It felt absolutely sinful, nearly illegal, but he came down on top of her, and she wouldn't dare move him away. There legs were intertwined, his arms placed by her sides and she couldn't help but hold on to his broad shoulders as he kissed her.
His mouth. She couldn't get enough of it. He tasted of rum and strawberries, vestiges of the recent fruity cocktails they had shared. His lips were slightly chapped, a result of their sunny day, but she didn't care. He was exploring her thoroughly, and she delighted in feeling him so completely.
When they least expected it, a large wave crashed against them. It broke them apart instantly, but they were still held together. His wet hair made him more handsome. Judging by the way he was looking at her, and trailing the drops of water that were falling from her hair and onto her breasts, he was also feeling the moment.
She stood up, playfully, hoping to lure him towards the towels. IF they took their towels and looked for a patch of trees, or bushes, she might consider going further. He followed her, and she fell among the towels, him on top of her. He kissed her again fully, and she thought she'd died and gone to heaven. She'd never been kissed like that before, and didn't think it was possible to feel those emotions, and yet, here she was, with the man of her dreams and he was taking her places she'd never been.
"Anna, if you are going to sleep, you ought to go to your bed. You shouldn't make it a habit of sleeping on this sofa. You did it once already this week. You'll be sore."
Mary's voice stopped the illusion. Damn her. She had been dreaming and that dream was gone. It was replaced by the realization that he was far away and that they might not get the chance to be together if she didn't find what she was looking for.
0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0
The weekend had passed in a blur. Anna had hardly left her house, preferring to spend it in her living room, amongst the tons of evidence she had accumulated. She had a million questions that she had asked of Joe and Joe was busy getting her the answers.
She also spent the weekend worrying about John and what he was doing. He was likely not getting a lot of exercise. He was probably not eating right, either. That propelled her to work twice as hard. Later that day, she would be meeting with Elsie and Pops to go over what she had. They were very good at giving their opinions and providing feedback.
She dreaded that it was Monday all over again. She loved Bates Airlift, but with John noticeably absent, it wasn't the same thing. She would rather be at home finding the information she needed to free him. She was also starting a new role this week. On Friday, Anthony met with her at Gwen's urging. He explained that before John was arrested, he had expressed his desire to see Gwen move into Sales and had suggested Anna cover the reception while Gwen did some training. Since there was a lack of tangible projects for her to work on, given that many things were on standstill until John returned, Anthony thought that was the most prudent course of action. Of course, Anna supported any activities that provided Gwen with more alternatives, so, she wholeheartedly agreed to take on those duties. Gwen had been speechless, when Anthony told her, and her first reaction, after leaving his office was to find Anna and hug her. It had felt nice, to see her friend so happy. Richard seemed cross all afternoon and both girls knew exactly what was going on. Anna hoped that this did not backfire for Gwen and she prayed that Gwen was safe from Richard too. She would have to be extra vigilant for her friend's sake.
She arrived early that day so that she could settle herself in and get reacquainted with all of Gwen's files and rosters. She had a difficult time sleeping anyway, so, it was best to come and start work early. It helped. She had been handed the keys to the supply closets. She reviewed everything. She opened John's office, just as Gwen had. She was careful this time not to linger too long, not like the other day when she was caught dazing. She proceeded to turn on all the machines. She sat at her desk, finally comfortable to start this new adventure within the company.
By the time Phyllis arrived, usually the first employee to start work, Anna was ready. Phyllis smiled and went even further this time, complimenting Anna for taking over so Gwen could seek advancement. It pleased Anna to chat with Phyllis for a few minutes and to see that the woman was kind hearted, wanting the best for their mutual friend. She left rather quickly, but it left Anna with a warm feeling. Little by little, the others arrived and the conversation repeated itself. When Richard arrived, thankfully, she was flanked by Tony, Jack and Alfred who were sharing a funny piloting anecdote with her. Anna's only hesitation to this position was Richard – she would have to face him every day. In her other positions, she could come in quickly and disappear from sight, getting to work quickly. He'd have to search her out to say the things he did, but here, she'd have no choice but to see him and probably put up with his skanky remarks. It was even more of a motivation to be finished with this case. The sooner she could land his arse in jail, the better.
A quarter after nine, when she'd already been working two hours and was going through the outgoing correspondence, something on the outside caught her attention. A familiar vehicle pulled in to the carpark. She could hardly breathe when she recognized the driver. What the hell was she doing here? She managed to call Anthony's extension through her nerves. She was so happy he answered on the first ring.
"Anthony, Vera Bates just drove in and has parked. She's walking toward the office now."
He hung up on her which Anna understood to mean he was on his way. The man was fast. He arrived by her side in a few seconds, the exact amount of time that it took Vera to reach the front door. She had a box in her hands, and entered as if she owned the place, which she did, but she showed no hesitation or concern. Her attitude, as always, was haughty and self-centered.
"Anthony, be a dear and open that door for me." The box she was carrying did not allow her to maneuver easily. She didn't even acknowledge Anna's presence.
"Vera, aren't you banned from coming here?" asked Anthony politely. He had not moved to open the door yet. He wished in that moment that he understood the terms of the non-molestation order against her. He wouldn't have to rely on her answer for information.
"No darling. I am not banned from these premises, I am banned from being close to John Bates, but, from what I understand, that worthless, soon-to-be-ex-husband of mine has gone and gotten himself into trouble and was arrested." She sighed, and in reflection, added "Poor fool." She stifled a giggle, as if his fate were a joke and talked again. "So … I am in no danger of running into him here and I am not breaking any laws. Be a dear, now will you?"
Anna's heart almost stopped when she heard those words, yet she remained calm.
Anthony relented after her explanation. He felt like he had no other choice but to let her in. She was still legally part owner, not until Matthew told him otherwise.
"What can I do for you, Vera?" he asked as she walked through. "Would you like to come to my office?" He gestured in that direction once she was inside.
"No, I would rather you came to mine." She walked straight into John's office, leaving a stunned Anthony and Anna with their mouths open. This was not her office. Anthony followed her, intent on finding out what she meant. She left the box on the desk and proceeded to close the door.
Gwen sprinted towards Anna. "Is that who I think it was?" Her cheeks were flushed from the excitement.
Anna nodded, not knowing exactly what to say. She was at a loss for words.
"Why is she here?" she asked, whispering. "And why is she in Mr. Bates' office?"
"I have no idea." Anna had a feeling in the pit of her stomach that whatever it was, it couldn't be good. She was aware of Vera's own petition for partnership dissolution and divorce request, knowledge provided by Matthew. The fact that she was here couldn't mean that she intended to actually run the company, or could it?
No sooner than those thoughts ran through her head, when the door opened. Vera came out. A white-as-a-ghost Anthony stood behind her.
"Ah, Gwendolyn, I need you to put together a meeting." She realized Gwen was actually standing and Anna was sitting at the reception, meaning Anna was the staff assistant. "Or you, Amy…..Whomever is organizing the meetings these days. I want everybody in the conference room in ten minutes." When neither of them reacted to her words, visibly stunned with her petition, she added in a very demanding and curt tone, "Do it, now." She closed the door behind her, shocking the two girls.
Both of them worked in tandem to get it done, and in less than ten minutes, an actual record, the entire Bates Airlift team, save Evelyn who was on holiday, was in the conference room. Even the mechanics, who had a farther distance to walk, were there. The gossip of Vera's return had reached everybody's ears and prompted by the curiosity of what that meant, they were all motivated to be there.
Highly unlike the Vera they knew, she was on time ten minutes later. She walked into the meeting room full of staring, curious faces. A still pale Anthony was standing beside her.
"Hello team. Starting today, I am your new boss. I've come here to stay."
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A/N: Oh my! Vera is back. What is going on? Is this as bad as it will get for John? Is William really Vera's lover? Will John go through with Richard's partnership? Will Anna find the evidence to free John? Did Pops get in on with Maude and Emma? Stay tuned for the answers in the next chapters.
Thank you for all your support, follows, PM's and reviews. I love reading what you think and I love the guesses regarding the storyline. I've received one correct guess on a part of the story, but I can't acknowledge it yet until we get there!
Also, I am sure everybody has seen the iconic beach kiss between Deborah Kerr and Burt Lancaster, at some point in their lives. It was yummy to imagine it being Bates and Anna. If you have no idea what I am talking about, you should see it on youtube. "From Here to Eternity – Kiss Scene on the Beach". Like my story, those lovers were also in the midst of an illicit relationship. That is one hot kiss for the 1950's….