Memories Unlocked #12

Todd continued to roll down the road trying to stay out of the paths of the cars maneuvering their way through the heavy traffic.  He arrived at his destination, a dock leading to the beach and turned down it, heading to the end.  He was exhausted and his arms were killing him.  He rolled to a stop and rested his arms, gazing out over the ocean.  He began to rub his biceps trying to ease the pain from all the work he had just put them through.  Maybe Miguela had been right.  Maybe he had jumped the gun thinking he was ready to face the world again.  He watched as the ocean waves crashed against the pier and his stomach lurched as he got dizzy. It felt like the dock was moving under him. His hand reached out to touch the wooden rail and he suddenly pictured himself lying on a wooden raft as waves were pounding over him.

Gripping the rail harder, Todd tried to remember more.  He closed his eyes and felt the raft lifting him up and down.  The hand gripping the rail felt raw and painful.  He removed his hand and looked at it, there were still places that were tender where the skin had been ripped off.   It had been so painful when he had first awakened from his injuries.  Both his hands had been severely damaged and as a result, they had been unable to get fingerprints.  Now he realized his hands had been torn up trying to keep him afloat on the raft, but why had he been on the raft?

The hospital had tried to find out if anyone had gone missing from a cruise ship or if there had been any boats lost recently during the summer squalls, but they had turned up nothing.  Todd hadn’t been able to help them because his memory was a blank slate.  He rubbed his palm and stared at the waves.  The memory that had surfaced earlier at the apartment complex only strengthened his belief that the reason he had been on a raft was that he was trying to escape something or someone.  He didn’t feel like he should be running, but the thought of prison bothered him.  He had a sinking feeling he had done something terrible. God, what kind of man am I?  I raped a woman, what else am I capable of?

     The memories that had surfaced made little sense.  They were a jumble of violent acts against him and one look at his body had told him they were all too real. The scars of knives and bullet wounds told him that his life had been riddled with trouble.  His memory of the woman he now knew as Vicki was painful too because that was when he realized he had raped someone just like the old man had raped her.  He wasn’t a good man.  Good men didn’t get shot or knifed normally.  Some of the nurses had tried to suggest he might have been in the army or the police but Todd just didn’t feel like he had done either.  There was a brief memory of dressing up in a police uniform, but Todd had a feeling he had worn it for an underhanded reason.  He just couldn’t remember what it was.

The psychiatrist had been right about one thing. Todd hadn’t wanted to delve into his dreams any longer.  He had been avoiding them because every one of them indicated the kind of man he really was and he didn’t like what he was remembering.  With sudden clarity, Todd knew he had to make a clean break from the hospital.  He had been using the children to hide from himself.  He hailed a cab and prepared himself for the task of telling the children he was leaving.

****

Blair sat there looking at the picture of Todd and the doctor.  He certainly looked like he was okay and the way the woman had her hand on his knee indicated they were friends at least.  “Okay, I’ll admit it looks like he has a friend, but I want to talk to this doctor.  You didn’t hear what they were talking about.  You said he was working in the Children’s Ward. Maybe he was just asking about one of the children.”

Sam looked at Blair.  The Todd she knew wouldn’t have thought anything about using a child to get someone’s attention if he was after something. Still, she had to concede Todd wasn’t acting like himself.  Frankly, she had been surprised to hear he was working in the Children’s Ward.   “About that, Blair.  Don’t you find it strange for Todd to be working in a hospital and in a Children’s Ward?  I can’t figure out what his angle is.  It’s not like he needs the money and I mean, I know he cares for Starr and Jack but…”

“It is a little strange, but Todd’s always had a soft spot for sick kids. Of course, a couple of times they’ve nearly cost him his life.  He was on a mission of mercy for a sick little girl when he was shot in Ireland and another time his plane crashed after he took a kid to get a new kidney.  I’m not sure what it is but there is something in him that wants to help.” Blair put down the picture. She stood up suddenly feeling very angry with Todd and moved to look out a window.  “Sam, I don’t understand any of this.  How can he work with these kids and just leave Starr and Jack without a word?  He swore he loved those two and he was all set to kidnap them and now it’s like he’s forgotten they exist.  Starr’s been worrying herself sick because he hasn’t tried to even contact her.  I swear I’m going to kill him if he’s been deliberately hiding to save his own skin.”

Sam and James exchanged a glance.  Sam had been thinking about the very thoughts that were going through Blair’s head.  “Blair, you asked me to find him.  What do you want to do now?”

Blair stared out the window.  Inside her heart was breaking.  She had been so sure something terrible was keeping Todd from coming home and now she wasn’t so certain.  Tea had told Sam he had headed out on the raft to come home to them.  Why had he changed his mind?  She straightened her shoulders, the only way she was going to know was to see him. “I want to talk to the doctor and then I’ll confront the bastard and tell him just what I think of him.  Right now, I think I need to see if Jack and Starr are okay after that long flight.  Sam would you be kind enough to see if we can get some food here.  I’ll go check on Heddy and the children.”  She turned and left the room.

Sam took a deep breath. “Well, that went better than I thought it would.  I feel for her.  Todd was always unpredictable.  He would run hot and cold and I know their lives have been turbulent.  Still, after what Tea Delgado told us, I really thought Todd wanted nothing more than to get home.”

James walked up behind Sam and lightly began rubbing her shoulders.  “You know, you’ve been looking at this the way you remember Todd.  From what you’ve told me, a lot of years have passed since you had any contact with him.  He could have changed.  We still have no idea what happened to him on that raft.  Maybe the guy realized he was bad for his family and decided to just let them get on with their lives without him.”

Reaching up, Sam placed a hand on James’ hand.  “Maybe but I always got the impression Todd would love his children more than himself and if he’s decided to leave them like you say, I still think he would have found a way to say goodbye.”

Blair suddenly rushed into the room.  “Starr’s missing.  I think she might have decided to find her father for herself.  She must have heard us talking about the hospital.  We need to go there now in case she headed there.”

****

The sun was dropping in the sky by the time Todd arrived back at the hospital.  He made his way to his room and began packing his meager belongings.  There wasn’t much, but through the generosity of the hospital, he did have a couple of outfits as well as some scrubs to call his own and he had enough money saved up to at least help him get a room at a hotel for a few months until he figured out what he was going to do next.  Setting everything on his bed he headed for Dr. Sanchez’s office.  Her door was closed and Todd realized she was probably still in surgery.  Okay, it looks like you’ll have to face the children now.  No sense in putting it off.  It isn’t going to get any easier.

He arrived on the ward and went to the activity room where the majority of the children were playing quietly.  All of them descended on him, talking at once, and wanting to know all about his afternoon and why Dr. Sanchez had ordered him to take it off.

“Are you okay Mr. Drake?  We were worried when you didn’t come in this afternoon.” Blanca said after giving him a quick hug.

He patted her shoulder and looked at all of them.  They really cared for him as much as he did them and leaving them was going to be very hard, but he knew he had to do it.  “I’m fine Blanca and I’m sorry I worried all of you.  You know I’ve been trying to remember more of my life and today something happened that made me realize….Um  look, sit down and I’ll tell you a story.”  They gathered around him, pulling some chairs and pillows to sit on and waited for him to start. Just then he noticed someone was missing.  “Where’s Lucy?” He looked at Blanca, but she lowered her eyes and started sniffling.

Li spoke up.  “Lucy started coughing really bad this afternoon.  She’s back in bed and the nurses are worried about her.  Her mom and dad are here and have been for a while.”

“I see.  Well, we need to keep up hope she’ll recover.  She‘s a real trooper.”  He looked over the group and realized no matter how optimistic he was, they all knew the outcome if Lucy didn’t get better.  He felt like a real heel.  He was about to tell them goodbye and for all he knew, they could lose one of their friends just as quickly.  Maybe you should put it off, Todd.  They’re going to need you if anything happens.  Leave the hospital but don’t give up the kids just yet.  Even as he thought it, he knew it wouldn’t work, he would just be avoiding the inevitable.  The children relied on him too much already and he, them.  If he left now, then in time they would forget him.  “Let’s see.  I was going to tell you a story. Right?”

The children nodded and smiled.  

“Alright.”

 Once upon a time, there was this large dangerous dragon. He was fierce and hated by all.  The dragon reveled in the fear of all the people but little did he know the people of the villages were planning to trap him and stop him from hurting them anymore.

The villagers worked together to ambush the dragon.  They placed several sheep atop a hill knowing the dragon would attempt to grab them and carry them away.  They watched as the great dragon swooped down to get the mouthwatering treat his eyes saw.  The trap was sprung as soon as he picked up the first sheep.  Working as one, the villagers had made a heavy chain, one that they hoped would bind the dragon to the ground long enough for them to attack him. Each of the sheep had been tethered to the great chain as it lay hidden in the tall grass.  

Totally unprepared for all the extra weight, the Dragon faltered and lost momentum, tumbling to the ground awkwardly. The awkward landing damaged his right wing and before he could get airborne again the villagers attacked.  His feet tangled in the chain as he attempted to fight the villagers.  In fury, the dragon did the only thing he could do.  He blasted the chain with his fiery breath even though it meant damaging his foot and in desperation sent the blast of flames around his body causing the villagers to fall back.  They had managed to hurt him but had been unable to reach his heart.  The mighty dragon lifted off the ground pulling away from the melted chain, his injured leg raw and bleeding as the links surrounding it dropped free, his right wing was torn but still provided enough lift. There were huge gashes in his sides where the villagers had struck but the dragon ignored the pain and flew away from them before they attacked again.

The dragon knew sooner or later he would be forced to land and heal but he realized he needed to fly clear of all the outlying villages because they too might attack.  In his heart, all he wanted was revenge against the villagers that had hurt him.  The dragon traveled far away from the land where he had been hurt and began to feel very weary from his wounds and his mangled leg and wing.  Suddenly he found himself overtaken by a storm, it took every bit of the strength he had left to remain in the air.  When the storm played out the dragon found himself struggling to stay above the waves.  In the distance, he spotted a small island.  “If I can just make it to that beach I can rest.” said the dragon to himself.

Todd paused and looked at the children  “What do you think?  Will the mighty dragon make it to the island?”

“Of course,” said Li  “if he was strong enough to escape the villagers, I know he can make it to the island.”

“I don’t know,” Blanca said quietly. “He’s hurt pretty badly.  Besides, he’s not a nice dragon.  He was mean to those villagers.  That’s why they wanted to hurt him.”

Li turned to her, “but he’s a dragon and that’s what dragons do.  He was just being himself.”

Todd looked over at Blanca.  “Do you think he should die?”

“Oh No!  He’s hurt.  I want him to make it to the island. Maybe if he makes it, he can change how he acts and then no one will want to kill him anymore.”

Todd gulped, Blanca’s compassion touched him deeply.

Li squirmed in his wheelchair. “Mr. Drake, tell us.  Did the dragon make it to the island?”

Todd glanced out the activity room window and watched a couple of nurses head into  Lucy’s room.  So far it appeared that Lucy was holding her own.  He looked back at the children and continued his story.

The dragon struggled but found himself dropping ever closer to the ocean.  Suddenly, a huge shark leapt out of the water and attempted to pull him under.

“Oh No!” cried all the girls.

The dragon roared and let loose another massive fireball which engulfed the shark making it fall back into the ocean but its jaws clung to the dragon anyway and soon the dragon found himself under the water.  In desperation, the dragon used his other back claw to free himself from the shark ripping it in two and he surged to the surface. With his mighty tail, he swam through the waves and using the last of his strength, he pulled himself onto the beach and collapsed. The dragon looked around, he was all alone.  He heaved a great sigh, for now, he was safe but he wondered if he would see another sunrise.  Unable to stay alert for any trouble the mighty dragon fell asleep.

The girls all cheered and Li looked at them and shook his head.  “See I told you the dragon would be alright.”  

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WE DID IT THANKS TO YOU!!!

Readers,
Thank you!  Today we crossed over 250K reads!!!!  Thanks for paying attention to the stories posted here.  The authors join me in thanks!

250K more!

Next goal:  275K

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Chasing the Monsters: 42

"Come on, Molly, give me a break, here," Jack Ribsky said, leaning on the door frame.

"First of all, you know I can't talk about this with you here," she said, whispering.

"All right.  What about something else?  Have any idea how I can contact any of these guys that were around here back then?"  

"The same way you would contact any cop?"

"You're getting smart allecky.  So, what about some coffee, then?"

"I'd love a cup.  Catch us up on old times.  You know I never got over you, Jack."

"Well, Pamela won't mind as long as it's coffee and in a public place," he smiled.

She laughed.  "All right, let me get my stuff."

He waited for her in the hallway, and then, they walked out together.  Once outside, she said, "I . . . I've waited a long time to tell someone this.  Sometimes, I thought for sure I'd go crazy, Jack."

"Everyone gets that feeling sometimes."

"I know.  But it's always been there, nagging me.  I heard that little boy's voice.  No one else did."

He swallowed.  "Well, you're talking about it now, right?  That's what matters."

They climbed into Ribsky's 1975 Mustang.

***

Using a taxi cab as his mode of transportation, Timothy made his way through the suburbs of Chicago toward the Ribsky home.  As the car leisurely passed through the town's tree-lined roads, he thought of two things:  his son, and Dorian.

His hopes were that Todd's past would be clear at last; the things the Ribsky dug up would somehow lead to answers, and the answers lead to endings.  He had seen what a foggy past had done to Eric, and didn't want the same for Todd.

For a moment, he pondered the idea of Todd as his son, and how strange it had been, the journey from hearing about him from his dear sister, to meeting him, to the younger man saving his life, to their undying father-son bond.  Somehow, through fate, both he and Todd had lost their son and father, respectively, within the same few months.  He knew had been correct in suggesting adoption; no one needed a father more than Todd Manning.  And, he knew he needed a son, as well.  But though they shared deep affection and respect for each other, he hadn't been able to curtail the chase that Todd had been on, since he'd known him: the chase to find and destroy the demon that plagued his life since he was born.

This, he hoped, was the last lap of the quest.

And, he hoped his recent time with Dorian would prove to be the first of many.  She was a spitfire, and though they often disagreed on one topic (Todd), he loved her.  He knew he did and that she loved him.  He impatiently waited for the car to come to a stop. 

"Driver, please stop at the third house up ahead," he said, and reached into his pocket, searching for money for the cab.  Pulling out a wad of bills, he sorted through them, getting ready to disembark.

At the sidewalk, he looked up and realized it was a beautiful day for waiting outside.  He stepped toward the home, and planned to sit on the stairs and wait for Jack Ribsky, but as he did, he could see the front door was slightly ajar.  Since Ribsky had asked him to meet him there, he assumed he had left the door open, so he decided to wait inside.

He called out to Pamela, "Hello, Pamela?  I'm here to see Jack.  He asked me to wait."

She didn't respond.  He sat on the sofa, at first, to rest and wait quietly, when he began to feel awkward about being in the house.  He picked up his cell phone, and checked it.  No missed calls, but a text from Ribsky, stating, "I'll be there soon.  Go in and make yourself at home.  Pam makes great coffee."

"Ah, well, then I'll use the commode," he said, standing, and stretching slightly.  "Mrs. Ribsky?  I'd like to use the bathroom, please?" he called out, as he headed in the direction that he predicted, from the structure of the house, would lead to the lavatory.  The house was set up as any other small cape, and he found the bathroom door easily, ajar.  Pushing it open, he was stunned at the sight before him.  His hands shaking, he pulled out his cell phone and dialed emergency, before going to Pamela Ribsky's side and kneeling, in her blood, to try and revive her.

***

"Thanks, Mabel," Jack said, twirling his spoon in his coffee cup.

Molly smiled.  Then, she looked to her cup, and took a sip.  "I don't know where to start."

"The beginning.  Always a good place." 

"He . . . was so afraid.  The little boy,"  she cleared her throat.  "This is hard for me."

"I understand.  Almost forty years ago."

"Not just that.  He was a child.  I . . . couldn't ever get over it.  It's been in my mind every night, one way or another."

"You want to tell me about it?"  He sipped his coffee.

"I guess I would, I've held onto it for so long.  He was . . . frantic.  He didn't say his name, at first.  He just said he needed help.  For him and his momma.  He said . . . 'he's hurting her, please save us.'  He said other things, I just . . ."

"And then?" he asked, compassionately.

"Then, I had run the partial address already, and knew where he was located.  My director told me to put it through to a specific line.  I did.  But as a dispatcher, I knew a car was ever sent out.  At first, I assumed that it was dealt with on the phone.  That worked until the next time he called."

"He called again."  A statement, not a question.  Todd had told him that.

"Yes.  It was well after that.  Maybe a year or so later.  This time . . . he was crying.  Begging, I think.  I've tried to forget that.  It hasn't worked."

"And you ran the address again and the same thing?"

"Yes.  Years later, it still bugged me, I had put the tapes into the locked third drawer and was told to dispose of them."

"Locked in a cabinet, not too disposed of.  Do you know who was on the other end of the special line?"

"No. . . but, my director . . . he's dead, Jack.  Died of a heart attack, 17 years ago."

"And the tapes, are they still there?"

"No," she said, reaching into her purse, "they're right here."

***

Timothy leaned on the door frame coming back out of the bathroom, and fought with himself not to lose control and spew the contents of his stomach onto the floor.  He went slowly to the sofa and then within moments, the door flew open, and in came the EMT team, with a gurney, and one was detailing their every move into a headset.  Timothy sat, numb.  He could hear the noises and voices from the small, white marble bathroom, now covered liberally in crimson.  "I can't get a pulse," one voice said.

The female: "Caucasian female, approximately 55 to 60 years old, no evident pulse, apparent suicide, CPR and revival attempts ineffective.  She's bled out already.  Police likely on their way.  Yeah.  Out."

She came into the main room, and stood before Timothy and said, "I'm sorry but, she's gone."

"Gone?" Timothy repeated.

"Yes.  I know it's difficult, but the police will need to talk to you, you understand.  We can't do anything for her, I'm sorry."

Timothy couldn't hear well, because his ears were literally ringing, and his own pulse was pounding in them.  He hunched over, tie loosened, and said, "Gone," again, and leaned back against the sofa, defeated.

***

Ribsky took the tapes and held them.  "The calls are here?"

"Yes."

"You've done good.  Whatever comes of this, you're working your way to getting past it.  I can tell you I won't name you unless I have to.  People can just think I private investigated my way into the files."

"I suppose.  But I'm ready if it comes to my punishment.  I've thought long and hard about it.  I was wrong for this."  Her eyes filled with tears.  "I don't think I'll ever be forgiven.  I've thought about it, over and over.  I've asked God for forgiveness.  You know me, Catholic girl, and all.  We practically grew up in church."  She paused.  "I guess I've done all I can."

"You've been helpful.  I won't forget it.  I have to go, soon, you know that.  Pam's expecting me home, and I'm meeting a friend as well."

She lightly grabbed his arm.  "Jack, can you tell me, what happened to this little boy?  Is he . . . alive?"

"He is.  He's alive."

She sighed.  "He wasn't killed then," she said, half to herself.

"No, he wasn't killed."

She looked up, this time, not caring that the tears were streaming.  "Was he hurt?"

Jack Ribsky finished off the last mouthful of his coffee, and said, "Maybe we should save all this for another day.  Whaddya think, Mol?"

She lowered her head and cried.

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Who's the Real Todd? Chapter 25

Todd walked out to the living room and sat down. Totally drained. He had gotten Jack to face the truth but that was just the first step of many they were going to be taking. He didn't remember that much about Rex Balsom except that he had come to Llanview something of a con artist. He'd have to talk to Blair to find out what to expect from the guy. Tea hadn't sounded optimistic. He felt a hand on his shoulder and looked at his daughter.

"You did good Dad. He knows what he did. I can't believe the bullying resulted in this. Poor Shane. Dad just how serious if this for Jack?" asked Starr as she sat next to him.

"Starr, this is bad. Jack didn't set out to hurt when he started all this but he let it escalate and when he had a chance to stop he didn't. He and his friends lured someone into a trap they set up to humiliate and possibly harm. They didn't stop to consider all the ramifications.  They did it to get even.  Now a woman has been killed. They are responsible. He needs to own up to his part in this if he's going to ever be able to face himself in the future. We need to be prepared for the possibility he could go to prison." Todd wearily rubbed his forehead. Once again his body was crying out for rest. He looked at the clock and realized that Ray would be arriving in a little over an hour. "Starr, I need to lie down. I'll be upstairs."

Starr watched her father ascend the stairs. He was so worried for Jack and he was blaming himself. She felt her own tears track down her cheeks as she wept for both of them.

Todd tried to rest but it was useless. He realized the events of the morning had once more emphasized just how cursed he was. Todd sent his thoughts inward and went looking for Samuel. Samuel had been able to take the edge off so many times recently and he needed that part of him that he had patterned after his old friend He was just about to knock on Samuel's door when a hand landed on his shoulder. He looked around to find Pete standing there.

"You don't need Samuel right now. You need to come with me."  Pete had roused his curiosity so he followed him. They entered a gym and in the middle was a boxing ring. " This is your chance, Todd. Something you been waiting for a long time. Are you game? Just you and me Todd."

Todd nodded. They climbed into the ring.

"Bare knuckles Todd, let's get it on," said Pete. They began circling each other, "So I'm the demon you thought you had to contain. That one hurt Todd, after all I've done for you." Pete feinted and then telegraphed his first shot with his right only to follow with a full left-handed blow that connected with Todd's jaw. Todd's head snapped back at the contact. "Why on earth would you put that label on me, you hated labels. Monster, Animal, less than a man, do any of them ring a bell. You said you deserved them but deep down you hated every label, well I've got one that fits you to a tee. Coward. You've sat back all these years letting me take the blame." Pete took a quick move to his left and then feinted right and sent a blow into Todd's ribs. Todd backed away, Pete had already gotten in two shots, it was time to change the rules of the game.

"I'll concede that truth to you, Pete. I have unburdened myself at your expense. But you're no Prince. You prey on women, you delight in making them fear you, because, in reality, you're afraid of them. You fear they'll make you feel and if that happens you'll be vulnerable. Now who's the coward." Pete growled and rushed towards him and Todd whipped his foot around and connected with Pete's face.

Pete staggered back, he had rushed right into that one. "Okay you got one off whoop have you got anything else. Come on enough with the dancing lets get this party on." Pete moved in and started sending punches rapid fire. They were both landing blows but neither seemed able to get the advantage.

After pummeling themselves almost senseless Todd finally held up a hand. "This is getting us nowhere, answer me something. What did you hope to accomplish when you brought me here?"

Pete leaned back against the ropes and chuckled. " Well, you tell me. Did you really want to talk when you came here or did you want to hit something? Admit it. You were mad and you were frustrated. Didn't you just get through telling your son you wanted to kill the man who took all those years from you, I know you, Todd, you've been holding in your anger for a while and it's obvious you can't take out your frustrations the usual way. Besides this gave me a chance to get some of my own back. So tell me, did you get any satisfaction taking me on because I got to tell you it felt pretty damn good to lay some of those hits on you."

Todd was shocked in more ways than one. He had never known Pete to chuckle. It was a little unnerving to think his dangerous alter could actually think anything was humorous. But what really shocked him was the fact that Pete had known exactly what he had needed after all. It had felt good to lash out, to go at Pete with everything he had. It didn't solve the problem they were faced with but he no longer felt the urge to smash a mirror or all the glassware in the house. "You're a bastard, Pete."

"I know but you love me anyway. Gah, I can't believe I just said that I'm spending way too much time around you. Get out of here before I heave." Pete left muttering to himself in disgust.

Todd started laughing, Pete had never seemed so approachable. He made his way back and realized that he could hear a conversation going on. Who was talking? "Damn I forgot about Ray"

He decided to listen in and take it easy, obviously, Samuel had taken over while he and Pete were having their discussion. Samuel and Ray had just begun discussing the facility. Todd felt the cold chill seep to his bones, Samuel wasn't any happier reliving this any more than he was but they needed to do this.

Ray looked at his friend and said: "Start anytime you're ready Samuel."

Ray waited for Samuel to begin, his thoughts roaming back to when he first arrived. He had been expecting Todd or Samuel to open the door so was surprised when Blair opened it. She had looked really upset and pulled him aside long enough to give him a quick rundown on what had occurred. When he didn't see Todd he got worried. This was just the sort of thing that could bring Todd crashing right back down into his depression. Blair told him that Todd had disappeared an hour earlier saying he needed to lay down.

There had been no answer when he knocked so he checked and the door wasn't locked. On entering, he had seen Todd laying on the bed. He seemed to be asleep but when Ray had attempted to rouse him there had been no response. After several tries, Ray had started to go find Blair when he was stopped.

"Don't go, Ray. My apologies, I was not aware you had arrived. It was remiss of Todd not to give me a warning what he was up to but I'm pretty sure he meant to be here to greet you." Samuel sat up on the edge of the bed and offered Ray the chair sitting beside it. "I'm presuming you talked to Blair before coming up here. Forgive me, but we're all a little shell shocked at the moment especially Todd, this whole thing has hit him hard. I had expected a visit from him but it appears one of my brothers waylaid him and they had a more physical chat so to speak. So here we are, you want to hear some more of the gory details of our stay at the Facility. Surprisingly I can understand Todd's reluctance to talk of this as I too feel uncomfortable. I wish I had never drawn those pictures but now the cat is out of the bag and there's no turning back.  Make yourself comfortable, Ray."

Ray settled into the chair and gave his attention to Samuel. Samuel had asked for a moment and Ray waited patiently he knew that this was going to be difficult.

Samuel had been ready to start when he sensed that Todd had returned He paused to quickly ascertain what Todd had been up to, "My god Todd what happened?"

Todd was sitting in a chair looking at him covered in bruises. Todd laughed, "You should see the other guy." off in the distance, a bark of laughter echoed around them. " Go ahead Samuel. You need to tell what you remember and I need to hear it. Then we can hear my part. There has to be something in these memories we can use to trap Kipling and Hesser. Go on."

Samuel took a deep breath and started in. "You are aware that after  Lawrence slashed Todd's face I took over. The subsequent ride to the emergency room and the treatment I was given there is essentially a blur. The injuries were too extensive and basically, I drifted in and out of consciousness. I was covered in bandages when they sent me to the facility. I remember jarring awake in the ambulance after we hit some pothole of something. Hurting all over and unable to move I just wanted to pass out again, but the pain was such, that every jerk of the vehicle just ripped through me and kept me conscious. We arrived and the doctors realized that I was awake and gave me something to knock me out."

"The next time I awoke I was being wheeled down a corridor and into a room. I thought it strange as it wasn't a patient's room but more like a laboratory. They moved me in and began hooking me up to all this machinery. I tried to talk but to no avail.  All I could do was lay there.  Then the doctor in the picture came into view and started talking to me. I couldn't quite understand him, my one ear was swollen shut from the trauma and my other had been worthless for years. He leaned closer and spoke saying 'Think of your Sister' I thought that was the most unusual request but no sooner did he say Sister and suddenly my mind was full of images of Vicki. I didn't even know who she was but every image felt like I should. Then something changed, the images began shifting I felt like I could reach out and touch the woman in the image but even as she became three dimensional something started slicing through her...." Samuel's voice was getting weaker and he had begun sweating. "As I watched that slicing, a pain started in my head. It began slowly but the more I watched the sharper the pain, I couldn't stop watching. I wanted to close my eyes to stop watching but my eyes felt like they were being held open against my will. I wasn't in control. The machine that I was hooked up to was doing it. It was slicing the memory from my mind, thin slice by thin slice .....thin slices of my brain.....aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaagh." Samuel screamed and collapsed back on the bed clutching his head.

Ray had been watching closely from the moment Samuel had started sweating, but he wasn't prepared for the agony he heard in the scream or for the result as he watched Samuel barely holding onto consciousness.

Todd had collapsed right along with Samuel as the pain coursed through the nerve endings in his brain. He was paralyzed until Samuel could fight through the pain.

Blair had come running at Samuel's scream followed by Starr and Jack. They watched as Samuel writhed on the bed in obvious pain, helpless to do anything. Ray sat on the bed talking steadily, efficiently. "Samuel, listen to me, follow my voice,come on concentrate on my voice nothing else. There's nothing there, just silence and my voice, no pain, just numbness, that's it, numbness, no pain." Samuel stopped writhing and lay quietly rubbing his head. Blair ran and got a cold cloth and brought it to Ray who carefully touched Samuel's shoulder. "Samuel there's a cold cloth here do you want it?"

Samuel opened his eyes and looked at Ray. "It doesn't help Ray.  It's never helped. This hasn't happened for so long I thought it was gone. The doctors at Philadelphia General were baffled and unable to find a cause and now I know why. This is something they did to me at the facility to keep me from remembering. God! This is the worst one since 2003. Todd is incapacitated for the time being and I'm not in much better shape. This is going no farther today. By the way, thanks. You better stay close if we try this again, it helped to concentrate on your voice."

"You rest my friend, you're right this goes no farther. Not until we can figure out how to buffer the problem." Ray gave Samuel a pat on the shoulder and stood up. "We'll talk later."

Starr and Jack came to their dad and helped him get more comfortable on the bed. His barely audible "Thanks" the only sound as he drifted to sleep. Jack looked at his sister and said " Tell me about him." she nodded and they headed to her room to talk.

Blair walked Ray out and they made arrangements to talk. She locked up and headed up to Todd's room to watch over him and make sure his rest remained uninterrupted,

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Chasing the Monsters: 41 (mild adult)

She scrolled through more pages of The Sun website.  It was difficult to have hacked into, and it took months to do, but she was in, thanks to her husband's computer work.  She could read everything, even Publisher Todd Manning's notes, if she so chose.  But her focus was on the last year, especially the outcome of the death of Peter Manning.

It had started when almost a year before, she had stumbled on the news of the killing of Peter Manning at the hands of his ex-wife, Bitsy.  Once she had discovered that she was alive, she had no time for surprises.  She learned that news at about the same time that she learned Peter was, once and for all, dead.

She didn't like what she had read since then.  Too much commotion, not good for anyone to be exposed to that kind of trauma, day in and day out.  The trauma caused by being involved with the likes of Todd Manning was something she was familiar with, and detested.  It had caused more trouble in her life than anything else ever had.  In some ways, it had brought her good things, some temporary good things, but very few long-lasting good things.  

It was a good thing that Peter was dead; from what she understood, he gave nothing positive to the world, and was likely the cause of things that had been done to her and others by Todd.  But it didn't matter; now, Todd was the cause of pain for people who didn't deserve it, and she was going to find a way to stop that from happening.

So she'd asked him, the love of her life, to help her, and at first, he was hesitant.  He resisted for a while, until she made him see.  Yes, it was unethical.  Yes, it was even crossing the line.  But it was nothing worse than what Todd had done himself to others and to her over the years.  But now, it was affecting innocent people, and her man had stepped in and even though his methods were suspect, it was going to get the job done, in the long run.  She just wondered how long it would take to get the desired results.

She took her glass of wine and sipped.  The warming liquid went down her throat smoothly, and since it was her second glass, it was working its magic to relax her.  She scrolled more, and added a new clipping to her clippings file, and at first glance, it appeared like an electronic scrapbook.  She glanced over it, and then clicked "save."  Things would go her way, it would just take time.

***

Jack didn't know what to say to his grandmother.  Instead, he just held her hand and led her back to the sitting area.  He gently tightened his arm around her shoulders as the silence continued.  He knew she was crying, and he had caused her tears by telling her the things that had transpired that she never knew about.  He wasn't sure how she knew Mitch Laurence, or what she'd known of him, but he thought she should know what he knew about him, at least.  Now, he wasn't sure.

It was then that his parents made their way up the stairs.  Ray, Jewel and Sam were still sleeping, and when Blair first appeared at the doorway, with Todd right behind her, they both seemed surprised to see Jack, sitting with Bitsy on the sofa.  

Jack looked up, and his eyes were red-rimmed.  He said, "I blew it, you might as well know right off."

"No, Jack," Bitsy finally said.  "You did nothing wrong."

"If anyone blew it around here," Todd said, stepping into the room, and removing his jacket, "it's me, your good old Dad."

Jack said, "You don't get it."

"Oh, I get it."  He walked toward the sitting area.  "Momma, I'm sorry.  I lost my cool.  I shouldn't have done that.  Blair made me see that . . . well. . .it's your choice."

"Yes, it is," Bitsy said, with tears still evident on her face, "and I don't need to see Mitch Laurence.  Ever."

Todd and Blair both showed surprise at her response, and Blair folded her arms.  "Jack, can you explain this?"

"I can, but I'd rather not," her son said, moving nervously in his seat.

Bitsy spoke up.  "Don't, please.  None of this anyone's fault.  Especially not Jack's.  He was  . . . just trying to make me understand you, Todd.  He did a very good job, and I'm grateful," she said, squeezing his hand.

Jack stood up.  "I think I should let you all talk this out, without me.  I'll go make sure the kids are okay," he said, leaving the room.

Bitsy waited until he had left, and said, "A fine young man.  When he talks, I see pieces of you and Blair in his eyes."

Blair teared up, and Todd said, "He's a good guy.  Made mistakes and learned.  More than a lot of people can say."

"He . . . was telling me, the truth," Bitsy said.

"My God," Blair said, quietly, "the things you never knew."

"No, I never knew.  Did he hurt you, Blair?  I . . ." she cried, "I can't bear it if he hurt you."

She went to her mother-in-law's side.  "No, not really.  He just scared me a little.  Todd came to save me, actually," she said, looking up to him with her eyes brimming.  She could see the woman was fearing the worst.  "No.  No, Momma.  Nothing like that."

"I know what it's called, I just can't say it," she said, to her hands.

Blair said, "It's all right," hugging the woman.  "Don't cry anymore, please."

"Todd?"  Bitsy said.

"Yeah?"

"Todd, the things he did . . . to you.  To your family.  They were very bad things.  He does not deserve anything.  Did he really kill that young girl's mother?"

Todd nodded.  Blair said, "Yes, Momma."

"It's confusing.  I . . . he saved me.  He . . ."

"Momma, it's all right, really."  Blair said, comforting the woman.  

***

She'd tell him today.  Whenever he got in, regardless of time, she'd tell him it was time.  Time to make the grand move, and get things right.  Precious time was wasting.  Lives were in jeopardy, important lives.  Well, one important life, that meant more than the others, at least in her eyes.  Things had changed.  People had come to mean less and different things to her over the last two or three years.  Her children were protected, but there were still lives in peril from being poisoned by Todd Manning's legacy.  Whatever that was.  Her husband would agree; he'd have to.

She remembered back to the conversation they had had with each other, not a year before.

"You have to do this.  It will just make it easier to keep up with the news about things."

He'd just finished making love to her, and he turned toward her.  "Geez, we just fucked, can we have a minute or two to enjoy it?"

"Yeah, but after that two minutes, you'll do it?"

"What, hack The Sun?  Yeah, all right, whatever, I will."

"Good," she had said, running her fingernails down his chest, lightly, and looking for a physical reaction.

"You know what THAT does," he reminded her.

"Yeah, I do, I know what a lot of things to do you."

She slid down his body, and wrapped her mouth around him.  Surprised at first, he jerked a little and then moved his hands to her hair.  Within minutes, he was lost in the workings of her lips and tongue.

When he came, she swallowed, and rested her head on his thigh.  "Good?"

"So good."

"Now about that other thing . . ."

"I already said I'd do it.  No need to barter."

"I wasn't bartering, I was showing appreciation.  For what you're going to do."

"All right, I'm glad you appreciate it."

"It's going to be worth it in the end, just trust me."

***

Todd was shattered by his mothers' despair.  He went to the floor in front of her and crouched down, saying, "Momma, don't cry, please."

She touched his face gently, "I can't explain it, except to say that I can't accept what he's done.  I . . . only remembered him one way, and that's . . . probably not real anymore."

He was overcome.  He wanted to say so much to her, but instead, words would not come.  Blair said, "Todd knows."

"I hate everything I thought he was.  I want to take the paintings of him, and do what should be done with them.  I want to burn them," she said.  "He's not the man I loved . . . he's just not.  He . . . I'm sorry . . ."

Todd's face broke, and he rested his forehead on his arm.  Blair said, "Momma, I'll help you gather them up.  Come on, let's go get them."  She stood up, and the older woman did as well.  But Bitsy's hand never left Todd, whether on his arm, shoulder or head, until she finally couldn't reach him any more.  And then, Blair and Bitsy were out in the hall, and walking toward the pink room.

He slumped to sitting on the floor, his head in his hand.  From behind him, he heard a familiar soft sound.  "Daddy?"  Ray said, coming behind him.

"Yeah, Ray," he said, brushing a tear from under his eye.  "Hey."

"Daddy, look out!" Ray warned, as he ran and jumped onto his father's back and hugged him around the neck.

Todd said, "You got me, Bud, you really did."

"Daddy, are you sad?"

"No, I'm not sad.  How can I be sad with you choking me around the neck?"

"Don't be sad, Daddy.  It's Sunday.  It's panacakes."  Ray continued to hug him, until he grabbed the boy's small waist and turned him until he faced him.  Their foreheads touched, and Ray started to laugh.  "You could chase me.  Or you could make pan-a-cakes.  With chocwate chips."

"Come here," Todd said, bringing the boy over one shoulder and holding him close.  "Let's go to the kitchen, huh?"

"Yeah, kitchen, so you can cook for me."

A small laugh came from Todd's throat.  "Cook for you?  You sound like your mother."

"I like Mom."

"Oh, Buddy, I like her, too," he sighed.

"I love her."

"Me, too."

"And you, Daddy."

"And you, too, Ray."

"Are you gonna dwop me?"

Todd started the stairs, "Drop you?  Have I ever dropped you before?"

"Yeah.  On the couch."

"Oh," Todd pretended, "no way, I'd NEVER do that."

They got to the bottom of the stairs.  "Will you cawwy me, Daddy, to the couch and then you can dwop me?  Will you Daddy?  I will laugh."

He did just what his son asked.

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Memories Unlocked #11

For the first time in a long time, Todd felt almost normal. “Thanks, Doc.  I’ve got to tell you, I really needed this after this morning.”

Miguela glanced over at him. “Why?  What happened?”

Todd cleared his throat. “It’s nothing.  Wow, you weren’t kidding.  I didn’t realize Guam was so populated.”  He looked around at the many stores and people walking the streets.  “So how far is your apartment from the hospital?  Does Guam have buses?”

She laughed.  “The island of Guam has several large cities, and we’re slowly moving into the 21st century.  In answer to your question, there is a bus service, such as it is, but it’s old and very outdated.  Look there goes one now.”

A big lumbering bus packed to the top with people of all shapes and sizes moved past them.  People were even riding on the top.  “Whoa, not something you would see in the States. It looks like it would be an adventure every day.”  Todd watched as the bus careened around a corner and noticed how the passengers clung to the top, even leaning the opposite way on the bus to keep it from going over.  "Umm, yeah.  Not so sure that's for me.  I'd like to live a little longer. I'll have to get used to taking cabs to the hospital."

"Todd, the hospital isn't kicking you out." Miguela parked the car outside the pizza establishment and turned to face him.

"I know, but if I stay much longer I'm going to go stir crazy.  It's bad enough I'm confined to a wheelchair.  I need space, some room to breathe."

“Well, for now, let’s eat.  Do you want to go in and sit out of this heat?”

“The heat is not that bad. You know, if you don’t mind, why don’t we take advantage of the table under that tree?” Todd pointed to the area where outdoor seating was available.  He wasn’t quite ready to mix with the general public just yet.  The hospital was a safe place.  If he got into trouble someone was always there to help him out.  The children and their families felt comfortable, but strangers were different.  He wasn’t yet ready for the looks of curiosity and pity.  That was the last thing he wanted.

Miguela moved the car closer to the outdoor tables and then got the wheelchair out of the trunk.  She held it still as Todd transferred from the car to it and then she rolled him to a table. “Okay, what do you want on that pizza?”

“Plenty of meat.  I’m up to here with fish.” Todd illustrated putting his hand under his chin. “And lots of cheese.”

“You’ve got it, I’ll be back shortly.”

Todd leaned forward on the table and watched the doctor walk away from him.  She was nice company and he had to wonder why none of the single guys in the hospital hadn’t tried to get something going with her.  She had mentioned a dead husband but she didn’t strike him as the type who didn’t move on.  In fact, the opposite was true. She struck him as one who knew what she wanted but hadn’t found him yet. “That’s it, you’re just waiting for the right guy.” Having solved that question in his mind he looked around and took in the sounds and the smells.  It felt familiar. he leaned back and just breathed it in.   “That’s it, it feels like home.”  

“What feels like home?” asked Miguela coming toward him.

“All of this, the noise, the smells.  I think I grew up in a city.”

Miguela arrived at the table holding two frosty glasses with a dark frothy beverage inside.  “That’s great.  Here, I figured you would want something cold to drink with this heat.” She placed a glass down in front of him and took a sip of hers.

”You read my mind.  I didn’t realize how warm it was today.” He picked it up and took a big gulp and almost choked when he realized it was beer. Coughing, he set the glass down carefully.  He didn’t want to spill a drop. It seemed like forever since he had a beer.  “You should have warned me.  God, that’s good!  Thank you, I thought it was some kind of rootbeer or coke.” He took another drink, this time swishing it in his mouth before swallowing.  He wanted to savor every bit of it.

“I thought you would like it.  I can’t have pizza without beer, thanks to my husband.  He loved dark beer and I guess I acquired a taste for it as long as there was hot pizza around.  Ours should be up by now, I’ll be right back.”  A few minutes later she brought out the pizza and a small pitcher of beer giving them both a refill.  Todd’s stomach growled so loud at the sight of the pie, they both laughed and dug in.

Shortly after eating they headed for the apartment complex.  Todd relaxed back in the seat.  “Thanks again.  I appreciate all this trouble you’re taking, but I’ve got to wonder why?  I thought patient/doctor friendships were frowned on.”

Miguela glanced at him. “Relationships yes, but not friendships.  Some patients do fall for their doctors and things can get complicated.” She paused and blushed. “Oh dear, I hope you didn’t think I’m doing this because I’m trying to start….,” Miguela suddenly wanted to sink into her seat. She was just making things worse.  

“Because you’re trying to start something with me? Don’t worry Doc, it never crossed my mind.” Todd stared straight ahead. “It’s not like I’m such a catch right now.  Hell, I’m moody on a good day. You wouldn’t want to see me on a bad day.”

“Don’t do that.  You’re putting yourself down because of your condition and you shouldn’t.  You asked why I was helping you and my reasons are two-fold.  One: As your doctor, I think you are right to want to get on with your life.  You’ve come alive being out here away from the hospital this afternoon.  It’s done you a world of good.  Two: I do like you.  I find you easy to talk to.  I’ve told you more about my husband the last two times we’ve talked then I have told anyone else.  I realized I need a friend and I think you do too, and friends help each other so that is my other reason.”  She pulled up at a stoplight and met Todd’s eyes. “What do you say?  Friends?”  she held out her hand.

Todd searched her face.  It was clear she meant everything she had just said.  He cleared his throat and reached for her hand.  “Friends.”

She smiled at him and started the car moving again. “Okay friend, ahead on your right is my apartment building.  I know it’s not much to look at on the outside, but inside, the apartments are quite nice.”

Todd looked at the building.  She was right, it wasn’t the most appealing exterior. “God, it looks like something leftover from World War Two.”

She laughed, “Well you’re pretty sharp, it used to be a munitions factory, but after the war, it was bought by a developer and turned into the apartment building it is today. He gutted the place but left the concrete exterior walls in all the apartments.  My husband fell in love with the history of the place.”  She turned onto a driveway that took her into the parking garage that occupied half of the ground level leaving the rest of the ground level for apartments. 

**** 

Sam walked up to the nurse in the Children’s Ward, “Excuse me, I know this is a strange question but do you think you could look at a picture for me?  I was in here yesterday and one of your nurses told me this man worked here.  Is that true?”  She handed the picture of Todd with the woman to the nurse.

“Why yes, that’s Mr. Drake.”  The nurse started to hand the picture back.

“Thank you.  Would you happen to know who he’s with?” Sam asked quickly.

“That would be Dr. Sanchez.  She’s on staff here.  I think they left a little earlier, I’m sure they’ll be back soon.  If you wait you should be able to talk to them.”

“Thank you again.” Sam took her picture and looked at her watch.  She realized she wouldn’t be able to wait around. Blair would be arriving and she needed to meet Sawyer, but, at least, she had gotten more on the woman.   As she walked back into the lobby, she decided to check one thing.  She went up to the information desk, a different volunteer was sitting there.  “Pardon me, can you direct me to Dr. Sanchez’s office?” Getting the information, she went down the hallway to the office.  The door was closed.  It appeared the nurse was right.  The doctor wasn’t in. “So Todd, your new friend is a doctor.  I’ve got to say, you never struck me as someone who liked or even tolerated the mainstream type.  Are you trying something new?   I don’t think Blair is going to be too happy when she finds you.”  She turned and left the hospital, flagged down a cab and headed to the airport.

****

Todd had an uneasy feeling as Miguela pushed him towards a gate that led into the building.  She pushed him through and he saw the long hallway in front of him.  He jumped as the metal gate clanged shut behind them.   The long hall was all concrete and Todd felt a chill go down his back.  A strange sense of deja vu washed over him, he closed his eyes and he suddenly flashed on a memory of walking down a hallway very similar that led to a locked solitary room.  He gasped as the realization hit him.  He had been in prison.

Miguela looked down at the sound. “Todd, are you okay?”

“What? Oh sorry. I was thinking of something when the gate shut, I guess it startled me.” He looked down at his hands clasped tightly in his lap and tried to forget the image of cell doors closing.  Suddenly the hallway seemed unbearably long and he felt like the walls were closing in on him.   He breathed a deep sigh of relief when they arrived at the doorway to the main building and entered the carpeted area outside the manager’s office.  Todd tried to get interested in looking at the apartment as Miguela pushed him down another hallway, after getting the key from the landlord.  Unfortunately, all he could think about was the fact that at some point in his life he had spent time behind bars.

Miguela opened the apartment door and looked at Todd.  He had been preoccupied since they had entered the building.  “Todd, are you sure you’re ready for this?  Maybe you’re pushing yourself to get out of the hospital.”  He didn’t answer her and she became a little concerned. “Todd, is something wrong?”

Todd was a million miles away.  He was remembering the first day with the puppets and his brief memory of sitting on a hospital bed with the gray wolf.  He felt a little sick now as he realized his suspicions that day had been right.  He had done something bad.  God if I’ve been to prison, I shouldn’t be around the kids.  I’ve got to think of a good excuse to leave the hospital and the job.   He suddenly felt a touch on his shoulder and realized Miguela was trying to get his attention.  “What?  I guess I was daydreaming.  Did you ask me something?”

“I asked if something was bothering you?  Are you having second thoughts about an apartment?  I know you weren’t too impressed with the outside of this building, if this isn’t what you’re looking for I’ll understand.  Do you want to see the apartment?"

Once again, Todd felt that feeling of everything closing in on him.  It was bringing up feelings that disturbed him.  “Let’s look at the apartment. I need to get out of this hallway.”  He began to roll through the doorway.

Miguela moved out of his way and then followed him into the place. “Todd, what is going on?”

Todd turned the wheelchair to face her. “What do you mean?”

“You been very quiet since we arrived here and now you make that cryptic statement about the hallway.  Do you want to talk?” She watched as he turned away from her and rolled into the living area.

Todd didn’t know how to tell Dr.Sanchez what he had just figured out.  He was having a hard enough time just getting used to the idea and the very real possibility that it was true. “It’s nothing. What’s the kitchen look like?”  He rolled away from Miguela and into the small kitchen. 

Stopping there and seeing the high counter, he was again reminded of his condition. “Not exactly handicapped friendly. Is it?” He said bitterly, swung his chair around and moved past Miguela, looking for the bathroom.  There another disappointment awaited him.  There was a bathtub.  He knew he could work around it, but it was just something else bringing his mood further down. 

He looked at his image in the mirror.  Maybe I’m some felon who was trying to escape capture.  Is that how I ended up on the beach? Then he remembered the dream that told him he was a rapist.  Is that it?  Did I do time for rape?  I don’t know what to do. Staring at his reflection, the wheelchair was very evident. It only served as another reminder. It looks like fate decided to make sure you’d never hurt another person that way, Todd.  You can’t even get it up, remember.  He turned away from the mirror and rolled back out into the hallway.  He noticed Miguela watching him and could sense her concern.  Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and tried to calm the chaotic thoughts racing through his head.  Apologize, you jerk! She’s got no idea why your mood changed. 

“Dr. Sanchez,...Miguela, I... I’m sorry.  You have to be wondering what happened since lunch to suddenly make me so testy.  Believe me, it has nothing to do with you.”  He looked around the room.  “Look, I appreciate the effort you took, bringing me here and all, but this isn’t going to work for me.”

“It’s fine, Todd.  I can see we’ll need to do some more intensive searching because of your situation.” Miguela was trying to tread warily.  She had a feeling the handicap problem wasn’t the main reason for Todd’s mood change but she didn’t want to push when it was obvious he wasn’t going to talk about it. “I’ll explain to the Super and tell him it won’t work.  We probably should get back to the hospital.  I’ve got a surgery scheduled for later this afternoon and I’m sure the children will be looking for you.” She started to walk behind him to once again push him but he stopped her.

Todd held onto her lower arm, “Listen, you go back.  I’ll get a cab.  I need to have some time to myself.  I’m not completely helpless.  This is something I’ll have to do on my own sooner or later.”

For a moment, Miguela considered protesting, but one look at his face and the tone of his voice told her she would get nowhere. “That’s fine Todd.  I’ll tell the children you’re taking the afternoon off because of doctor’s orders.  They’ll understand.”

Todd nodded his thanks and watched Miguela leave.

****

Blair stepped out of the plane holding Jack and carefully made her way down the stairs to the tarmac.  Jack was being fussy and she struggled to calm him down as she looked around for Sam Vance.  Behind her, she heard Heddy calling to Starr.

“Ms. Starr, please don’t run off.  Your mother told you to stay with me.”

Blair stopped up short and looked around just in time for Starr to barrel into her.  She also saw Heddy toting both the baby bag and Starr’s carry-on luggage as she moved slowly down the steps from the airplane.  “Starr Manning, you go get your bag from Heddy.  Shame on you.  She’s just as anxious to get on the ground as you.  You apologize, too.  I told you I don’t want you to treat her that way.”

Starr looked angrily at mother but reluctantly turned around and walked back to Heddy who had now made it to the ground. “Here, Heddy, I’ll take my bag, thank you for offering to bring it down for me.  I’m sorry, I didn’t mean leave you behind, I just want to see my daddy.”  Starr looked contrite and her lower lip wobbled.  She looked through her lashes to see if Heddy was taken in by her acting.

Heddy looked at the little girl and walked to her and patted her head. “It’s alright Ms. Starr,  I understand. You go walk with your Mama, I’ve got everything under control now.”

Blair shook her head as she watched her daughter come towards her with a smile on her face.  Once again Starr had used her wiles to outsmart Heddy.  Blair held out her hand and Starr took it.  

Starr looked around anxiously, she couldn’t see anyone she knew. “Mommy, is Daddy going to meet us?”

Blair frowned. “No, sweet girl, but I hope we get to see him soon.”  She squeezed Starr’s hand and adjusted Jack on her hip while she searched for Sam Vance.  She spotted her as they entered the terminal.  She moved quickly to greet her.  “Sam, have you seen him today?  Can I go to him?”

Sam glanced over to Sawyer and then back to Blair.  “I haven’t seen him today, Blair.  Let’s get you settled at the hotel and then we can talk.  By the way, this is James Sawyer, the man who’s been flying me all over the Pacific.”

Nodding at Sawyer to acknowledge him, Blair's smile was only half-hearted as she tried to hide her early disappointment at Sam's words, and she inadvertently squeezed Starr’s hand a little too hard.

“Ouch, Mommy!” Starr tugged her hand free. She looked at the lady who had just met them. She stared at her and frowned. “Why can’t we see Daddy now?  I want to see him.  Mommy, you said we were coming to get Daddy.”

Blair turned to her daughter and struggled to contain Jack, who was squirming from also being held too tightly. “We are Honey, but Sam is right. It’s been a long flight.  We’ll go to the hotel and get Jack down for his nap and it will give me a chance to find out everything I can about Daddy.”

Starr pouted and walked back to Heddy. She grabbed her bag and followed her mother and the strange lady to their next stop.  At customs, she took her doll Ichabod from the customs agent and hugged her.  She whispered to her doll as she walked to the car.  “Mommy doesn’t understand, Ichabod.  Daddy needs us to find him now.  I just know it.  I’ve got to find a way to go look for him myself.”  She smiled and began plotting her next move.

A short while later Starr snuck out of her room and moved into the hallway to listen to the conversation her mother and the other lady were having.

“Okay, Sam, spill.  Why can’t I see Todd today?  You said you found him at the hospital here in the city.  You also said he wasn’t a patient.  What’s going on?” Blair moved across the room to confront Sam.  “We’re here at the hotel.  I know there’s something you’re not telling me. Skip the small talk.  What is Todd doing here?”

“Blair take a seat.  The connection was bad or I would have told you more over the phone.  I found Todd, that’s true.  He’s not a patient at the hospital, he’s working there.” Sam moved to join Blair on the couch.  She reached into her purse and pulled out the first picture. “I took this a couple of days ago at the hospital.  It is him, right?”

Blair took the picture and her heart fluttered. It was Todd.  His hair was a little longer but the scar and his features were burned into her memory. “I don’t understand.  Why is Todd working at a hospital?  What could he possibly do there? The only thing he ever did was work as a janitor when he was pardoned.  This doesn’t make sense.” She looked at Sam and saw the private detective glancing at the pilot she had met earlier.  “Sam, I’ll ask again. What’s going on?”

Sam reached into her purse again.  “It seems Todd is working on the Children’s Ward.  I’m not sure exactly what he does there, but there’s more going on.  Blair, he wasn’t alone when I found him.” Her eyes met Sawyer’s and he nodded at her.  She pulled the second picture out and handed it to her client.  “She’s a doctor on staff at the hospital.  Her name is Miguela Sanchez.”

Blair felt like she had just been kicked in the gut.  It couldn’t be.  She had spent all this time looking for him, and he was here messing around with another woman. With a trembling hand, she took the second picture from Sam.  The woman was beautiful and the picture showed her hand on Todd’s leg.  In the picture, Todd was smiling at the woman and Blair felt jealous.  He was married to her.  What right did he have flirting with another woman?  Blair stopped herself, suddenly remembering her last fight with Todd.  She had told him it was over.  That she was taking the kids and getting a divorce.  You’re a fool, Blair. It doesn’t matter that Tea said he was headed home to you.  He must have changed his mind. NO! I don’t believe it, there has to be another explanation.  Blair looked at Sam.  “Did you talk to the doctor?  Maybe there’s nothing going on here.”

“I didn’t have a chance.  I went to the hospital, to get more information before coming to get you but according to a nurse on staff, Todd and Dr. Sanchez went to lunch together shortly before I got there.  I’m sorry Blair.  What else can I do for you?”

In the hallway, Starr was holding her hand over her mouth. She had almost screamed out when she had heard the lady tell her mother, that her daddy was with another woman.  Daddy wouldn’t do that.  Starr crept to the door leading out of the suite and rushed to the elevator.  She had to get to that hospital and find her daddy.  He would tell her the truth.

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