The Blackout My head was throbbing and it hurt so bad. I could feel the dry blood caked in my hair with my hand, but I could not see a thing. It was pitch black. I closed and opened my eyes again and again but nothing. All I could see was was dark empty blackness, if I was seeing anything at all. Could it be so dark, there was not even a crack of light from anywhere? Maybe the blow to my head, caused me to go blind. I was in shock. What had happened to me? Where was I, where am I now? I couldn't remember anything. I closed and opened my eyes once more, but still utter blackness. I mouthed the words help me, but the volume was low and inaudible. My head felt like it was splitting in half. I could feel the hard ground beneath me as I reached my hands out to the sides. I was lying on the floor, but what floor? Where was I? I kicked it with my heel, it was a wooden floor. I slowly got to my knees, and raised my hands up into the air to feel what was above me. All I could feel was emptiness. I stretched them out in every direction and felt nothing. I crawled straight ahead in the direction I was facing, not knowing what was in front of me. I crawled and crawled until my hand hit something. I laid my hand flat on it and moved my arm all around. It was a wall. I made a fist and knocked on it hard. It too, like the floor, was made of wood , and running my hand over it, I could feel that every few inches or so, there were small gaps that went from the bottom upward. I thought of the inside of an old barn. Slowly I began to stand, using the wall as my guide. When I was standing up all the way , I carefully slid my index finger up one of the grooves in the wall to the top. I went onto my tippy toes and there it was. I had found the ceiling. I wonder how big this room is, for sure there is a door, I thought, or a light on the ceiling. I began to inch my way forward keeping my hand on the wall about waist high. If there was a door or any opening, I did not want to miss it. After cautiously moving forward for about twenty feet, I came to a corner. I turned to my left and continued to follow the wall. Once again, I closed and opened my eyes hoping for some light, hoping to see something , anything, but again just darkness. I reached another corner. So far, there were no doors or windows that I could feel. I was reasonably sure now, that I was in a smaller room. Not a big one, like in a warehouse or something like that. I don't know where I started on that first wall, but the distance between the next two corners was about 15 ft. I turned left again, and creeped my way along the wall. I stopped twice more, and on my tippy toes, again reached for the ceiling. It felt like old plaster. It was falling apart. As I touched it, the deteriorating plaster dust fell on my head, and over my face. I closed my eyes quickly when I felt it begin to fall. Upon reaching the next corner, I now knew the room was approximately 30 ft long and 15 ft wide. Still no door or opening I could find, feeling in the dark with my hands and fingers. I turned and headed toward the first wall. Now moving a bit faster. I was feeling trapped and fear was setting in. Who had hit me and why. What did I do to them to deserve to be hit and put in this place. I reached the corner and again no found no exit. I had the last 10 ft of the perimeter of the room to go. I was certain there would be a door. My hands gripping the wall and searching every inch as a trudged along to the spot I first stood up. I counted my steps as I went. I found no door. I continued to the corner, as to have my back protected on at least two sides. Maybe there is a trap door somewhere in the floor I thought, maybe one in the ceiling. I was sore all over, and tired, and my head ached. My body slid down the wall to the floor. I sat legs out, and my head resting in the corner, and fell asleep. I woke feeling considerably better. My head was still hurting but not as bad as earlier. I blinked, still hoping for for some sign of vision. I wondered again, if the blow to my head had blinded me, or was I just in a place so deep and dark and lightless, that sight was just useless here. I couldn't comprehend the thoughts rushing through my mind. I remember who I am, my family, friends, my job, and my entire life, everything except how I got here. I remember leaving work and meeting a few coworkers for drinks at a bar downtown. It was Thirsty Thursday, as we called it, and happy hour to boot. All the drinks were half price, and for a fifteen minute period between five and six, shots were free. Each week we would have a contest, to see who could down the most free shots, in that fifteen minutes. I think I remember winning last night, but that's it. Everything is blank after that. I sat in the corner wondering what to do. I decided that a trap door in the floor, was the most likely avenue for escape from my dark hell. I would have to crawl back and forth across the floor in a grid pattern to find it. I began the crawl. My hands, now my eyes, feeling every inch of wood beneath them. Back and forth, my knees carried me in one line after the other. I estimated that I was about half way across the room, when I heard her voice for the first time. It was muffled. She was not in the room with me, but she was close, very close. What should we do with him she asked? I listened for some clue to who she was, and why she held me captive here. Then another voice answered her. I want him dead she said. Dead?, said the first voice, you never said anything about killing him. I want him dead she yelled. This time, I recognized her voice. It was my wife. Then nothing. Not another word was spoken. I heard what sounded like a door close, and then the quiet. Just like the dark. My heart sank. All I could think of is why? I continued my crawl, searching for a way out. At one point, I was crawling in what felt like sand, and little chunks of rock. But no trap door. I continued until I reached the wall. I sat bewildered, wondering to myself, how do I get out of here. Am I blind? And mostly, why would my wife, my loving wife of twenty years, want me dead. We had a great life together. We were best friends, or so I thought. Suddenly it hit me. The sand and rocks I crawled through, were crumbling plaster from the ceiling. The trap door must be there. Above that spot. I thought about how I had to stand on my tippy toes, just to touch the ceiling. How could I ever reach and open the door. I got back on my knees and crawled slowly in the direction of where I had felt the debris on the floor. Sure enough I found it quickly. I stood up and immediately reached for the ceiling. On my tip toes I could feel it. As I worked my hands and fingers around the small rectangular door, I felt something brush across my face. I swung my arm at it thinking it was a big spider or some other insidious bug, but instead, as my arm continued to move past my face, my hand caught hold of a thin cord. My hand clasped tightly on the cord, as I now knew, I had found my escape. I listened intently in the dark, to hear any sound at all , that I was not alone. After five long excruciating minutes, hearing nothing but my own heartbeat and breath, I pulled the cord. The staircase creaked slowly downward, as the sound of the springs went boing. I now saw, not a light, but a lighter haze in the rectangular space where the stairs had been tucked up into. I climbed the stairs. At the top was a heavy old rug covering the hole. As I moved it, the light was bright. I had to close my eyes. I opened them again, but squinting as hard as I could, and continued to move the rug. I needed to be quiet and fast, I didn't know for sure if anyone else was here or would be coming back. My eyes began adjusting to the light, and opened a little at a time. I could see. Thank God I thought, I am not blind. The rug now off, and my eyes open, I climbed out of the room I was held captive in. I speedily pulled the stairs back up and replaced the rug to re hide the entry. The house was eerily quiet as I slipped through the back door and out into the street. I walked a couple of blocks catching my thoughts, and breathing a sigh of relief, and at the same time I cried, the love of my life wanted me dead. I did not know whose house I was in, but I kept note of the number and street. I'm sure I would need it again. I hailed the first cab that came by. The driver asked where to pal? I just looked at him with tears in my eyes, then gave him my brothers address. mw 11/4/17 Chapter Two John opened the door. What happened man, you look like shit. Come in and sit he said, then he scanned the outside with his eyes, and closed the door. I didn't know where to start. I was confused and tired, I need to settle my soul and collect my thoughts I told him. Your head he said, it's covered with blood. Were you in an accident. I leaned back in his black leather lounge chair, and rested my head. It was beginning to throb again. I closed my eyes and said, she tried to kill me. Who tried to kill you he replied instantly. Jane I said. Jane? But you are the happiest couple in town. That's what I thought also. I explained to him how I awoke in the blackness and had to search for a way out. I told him what I heard Jane and the other woman say. How did they knock you out and get you in the room he asked? I haven't a clue I said. I shared with him about being at the bar and winning the shot contest. He smiled for a second and said, so what's new. You always win that stupid contest. I looked up at him. What do you mean I always win. Wow, he said they must have really walloped you in the head hard. Yea, every Thursday after work, you hit happy hour at The Grill. You drink like a fool, win the damn contest, and Jane picks you up and brings you home. It's kind of vague, but that does sound kind of familiar to me, I said. Hell, I've even picked you up on occasion. I don't believe for one minute said John, that Jane has anything at all to do with this. But I heard her, I said. Your heard two woman muffled through a wall, your head cracked and probably a concussion, in total darkness, and probably afraid as hell. I doubt anyone could hear accurately under those circumstances. I felt a bit at ease hearing his thoughts. May I was wrong. Maybe the voice of the woman that wanted me dead was not Jane after all. Maybe John was right. Maybe I was hallucinating also, I thought. John gave me some aspirin and hot cup of coffee. Feel free to get cleaned up, there are clean towels under the bathroom sink. I finished my coffee and told him I was gonna take a shower. Ok, I'll heat up some leftovers from dinner while you do. The shower felt great. I stood under the hot steamy water for what seemed a lifetime. The thought of thinking it was Jane, kept bouncing around my brain. But perhaps John was right. It wouldn't make any sense, it being her. I gently washed my hair, rubbing ever so gently over the wound. Then the rest of me. My legs began to cramp a little, and I pushed one straight out under the hot stream of water, and then the other, until the cramping stopped. As I turned off the water, I heard John talking to someone. I listened hard but could not make out a thing he was saying. I couldn't hear any other voice, just Johns. I dried off, and put on a t shirt and baggy sweatpants, John had given me to wear. When I walked out of the bathroom, John was alone. Maybe he was on the phone I thought. Dinners up he said smiling at me. Fill your stomach, everything is gonna be fine. Mashed potatoes and pot roast with gravy, and a good size helping of spinach. Even a leftover crescent roll with butter. I ate it all fast, as I was hungry, and hadn't eaten since lunchtime the day before. This is really good I told John. It tastes just as good as Janes. John was a widower. His wife Karen died about a year ago. She had some kind of mysterious illness or something. The doctors never figured it out. After a while I guess none of us gave it a second thought. She did die peacefully, in a hospice, with family around her until the end. You've become quite the cook this last year I said, you couldn't even boil water when Karen was alive. Yea, well, a man has to eat he said. I looked at John, I thought I heard you talking to someone when I was getting out of the shower. Oh, yea, um, I was he said. Who was it I inquired? John thought for a second, and then said, my friend Paul from across the street, needed to borrow a flashlight. You must have overheard us. That must be it I said. I thought about not hearing any other voice. Maybe he was really on the phone. I was getting paranoid. I need to sleep and regain my thoughts and emotions. Really,paranoid of my own brother? Yup, I needed sleep. I need to sleep I told him. John threw me a pillow and a blanket. You can take the couch, I'm gonna watch tv in my room for a while. I'll see you in the morning. If you need anything at all, you know where things are, so help yourself. I will I said, and thanks Brother. John smiled and turned toward his room. He stopped, his head swung around and he said, we have a lot to talk about in the morning. Ok I said. See you then. I laid on the couch my belly full, the pain in my head now being drowned out by those miraculous aspirins, and tried as hard as I could to remember what happened in the bar. I had nothing. What did John mean by I always won the contests, I barely remember winning this one, and I never won before, not that I can remember anyway. And what did he need to talk about in the morning. I am gonna go to the police station and report what had happened. I'll say someone wants me dead, and I'll tell them everything I can remember. John had coffee already brewing when I woke up. Good morning brother, would you like a cup of joe? Yes I said wiping my eyes, coffee is just what the doctor ordered. I felt good physically, and for the most part, the pain in my head was only slight. My emotions however, were all over the map. I drank my coffee as I told John that I was going to go down to the station, and file a report of what had happened. He looked at me odd, and asked, what happened? What will you tell them? Tell them you got drunk in a bar and blacked out? Tell them your wife is trying to kill you? They'll put you in a straight jacket. Besides, if you were blacked out, and have no memory of what happened to you, maybe YOU he said, did something terrible, and will go to jail. I thought about what he was saying. It had a certain amount of reason, although I could not help feeling I was the victim here. After all, it was my head that was bashed in, and me who awoke in that dark horrid room, held captive in blindness. It was me, who found an escape, me who heard those women's voices wanting me dead. Ok, I told him, maybe you are right. I'll wait until I remember what actually happened and then I will go. Good idea, responded John. I opened the fridge to get some milk for my coffee. It was empty. One beer can, and what looked like a piece of rotten salami. So this is the single life huh? I said to him. I haven't been home a lot lately to cook, I do really need to go shopping. Well let's go out and get some breakfast, and if you would after, please drive me home. Jane must be worried by now. I've never stayed out all night on her, no less two in a row. That will be fine said John, let's go. We got into the car and headed to the diner. I could smell just a hint of women's perfume. It smelled good. It kind of had a familiar odor to it. Well, I smell you've been busy, I said to John with a big smile. I guess you are getting on with your life now that some time has passed. He looked at me. What do you mean by that he said. I smell the perfume in the car. Oh that, that was one of my neighbors. Her car was broke down and I lent her mine, so she could go food shopping. Oh, I see I said. That is very nice of you. Our whole family has always been so giving. John pulled into the diner parking lot and put the car into park. At the door, the hostess said, hello John. Johns face cringed a little. Hello Maggie he said. This is my brother George. Hi George, said Maggie, I'm not used to seeing John here with another man she said laughing. John again cringed his face. What wrong I asked? Nothing he said, Maggie is nice, but she is full of gossip, and talks too much. Maggie seated us in the far corner, under the window which overlooks the side parking area. Coffee boys? Yes thank you I said, cream and sugar. And the usual for you John? Yes, he said a bit gruffly. We ordered breakfast and ate. Then John drove me to my house. Do you want me to come inside with you, he asked? No, I'll be alright. Thanks for being there for me bro, I said. Anytime George, that's what brothers are for. I walked slowly toward the front door trying to collect my thoughts. What would I say? I wasn't sure about anything now. I couldn't accuse her of trying to kill me, could I? We were so in love, I had to be mistaken. I opened the door and Jane came running, she threw her arms around me and pulled me tight to her. Oh George, are you alright? What happened, where have you been? Tears filled my eye's. I just knew it couldn't have been my Jane. I told her what I could remember. I should probably go and report this to the police. Jane looked at me. George she said, Who would want you dead, everyone loves you. Maybe with so much to drink you were mistaken. Maybe you fell and hit your head. Then how did I wake up in a room in someone's house I said. What if you killed somebody she said to me. I thought about what she was saying. Like John, her statements had some reason. Was it possible, did I blackout from drinking? What occurred I had no Idea. I just held her tight, glad to be in her arms once again. I must have been hallucinating. This is where I belong, right here in her arms. I breathed somewhat easier now. After all, Jane, my wonderful Jane, she could never hurt a fly. It was about eleven o'clock Saturday morning, and here I was. Home safe, with my beautiful best friend. Not even once did she accuse me of cheating, or staging this event to cover up some infidelity. She believed what I told her. It was the truth. But this uneasy feeling was beginning to fill my stomach. What could I possibly have done while drunk, that should keep me from calling the police. I mentioned it to her once again. Shouldn't I report this Jane, I asked. She took me by the hand and led me up the stairs and into our bedroom. She slipped my t shirt off and pulled down my sweatpants. She opened her shirt and dropped her shorts to the floor. She pushed me down onto our king size bed and made love to me. It was weird. I was usually the aggressor, but now she was in charge. We stayed in the bedroom for most of the day. Making love, and talking and making love some more. Around six we woke up in each other's arms. She was incredible. How could I ever have doubted her. Jane got dressed and went down to start dinner. I got dressed into my own clothes again, and carried the clothes John lent me, to the laundry hamper. As I opened it, to throw the clothes in, I got the faintest whiff of that same fragrance I smelled in John's car. I picked through the laundry and found the scent. There was perfume on a pair of Jane's panties. I thought of how John was talking while I was in the shower, he had a whole dinner, but no food in the refrigerator. Neither of them wanted me to go to the police. The voice I had heard in the darkened room, sounding like Jane's, wanting me dead. My head began to pound. My thoughts filling me with rage. It couldn't be, could it? We just had the best loving sex ever. I must have brain damage from the blow I thought. I'm paranoid again. I need to see a doctor. I collected myself, and began to walk downstairs to help Jane with dinner, when I heard her on the phone. 11/5/17 Chapter three 11/9/17 Jane was not whispering, or even trying to hide her voice. He is home safe and sound thank God she said. But he is getting worse. He doesn't remember anything other than going out with his friends after work. After a short pause, the other person I assume was speaking, Yes, she said, I will. I already suggested he not go there. He trusts me, it will be fine. With that she hung up. I walked down the stairs like normal, and went into the kitchen. Who was on the phone I asked? Your brother John called to make sure you were ok. He is worried about you. I hadn't seen John much over the last couple of years. We were always close, but you know how life just gets in the way. Both busy with work and our own families, and not enough time even for that. He wasn't in my daily life either, and had no way of knowing what was going on with me, other than what I would share with him at the occasional party, or gathering. Do you talk to him often I asked? No said Jane, I haven't talked to him since Karen's funeral. How did you meet up with him she asked? Feeling a bit guilty, I lied to her. I Was wondering in the street, and saw the cab. I got in, and when the guy asked me where I was going, the only address I could think of, was Johns. The hit on the head must have rattled my brain I said. I'm glad you are ok said Jane. She looked at me, and then crossed the kitchen and put her arms around me, and held me tight. Even being paranoid, it felt wonderful to have her arms holding me so. Dinner is ready said Jane. I made stew with the leftover pot roast from the other night. I sat down at the table and ate. I was hungry after spending the day with her upstairs. After dinner I said, can you drive me to the bar? The bar? Exclaimed Jane loudly. Don't you think you've had enough already. I'm not going to drink I said, I want to see if my car is there. I still had my keys, wallet and money. It was strange, I was kidnapped, but not robbed. Maybe they were going to kill me. Whoever they were. Oh, ok yes. I'll bring you there for that, she said sounding relieved. After we finished eating, Jane got her purse and coat and off we went. I was feeling nervous and my stomach was churning. I wondered if my car was still there. Maybe it got towed, or maybe whoever hit me, tried to steal it or hide it. I checked my key ring to see if my car key was still there. It was. That was a small relief, but relief still the same. Maybe someone was watching I thought, waiting for me to return. As we pulled into the bar parking lot, there it was. My ford mustang, right where I parked it. It's here just like always Jane said. What is that supposed to mean I asked her? So I go out on Thursdays after work. That's not always. Maybe we should make a doctors appointment George she said to me. You seem to be forgetting things. Maybe you have a concussion. I am not forgetting a thing I said. You make it sound like I am a drunken alcoholic who is always at the bar. Just then, I thought of Johns comment also. He said I always win the shot contest. How did he even know I went out to the bar on Thursdays. Paranoia was again setting in. Jane pulled next to my car and I got out. She said I love you George, you know that right? I looked at her. Yes I said, feeling kind of uneasy. I am going to run some errands while I'm here in town she said. Do you need anything? No I'm fine I said. I 'll see you at home. Are you sure you're alright George, she asked? I'm fine I repeated. Ok I'll see you in a little while she said and pulled away. I stood near the drivers side door, and looked around. I thought I heard a noise behind me. It was only an old plastic bag laying on the ground, blowing in the breeze. I turned again toward the car. As I reached for the handle I saw it. There was blood on the edge of the roof and on the window. Instantly I remembered. I was drinking and I did win the shot contest. We were all lightweights. I won the contest with three shots. I remember I was the first of our group to leave. We had spent the better part of four hours at the bar. Playing pool and talking, and having a few drinks. It was around seven in the evening and it was dark outside. I was heading home to Jane. I remember going to my car, and reaching for the door handle, and then wham, lights out. I was hit from behind, and had no clue who did it, or why. I thought again about the room. How the darkness felt deep inside my soul. Captive, with no means of escape, and no known reason, for my abduction. Death looming on the horizon to become my fate. The voices of my captures, two woman. Two women I thought. Jane possibly one of them. But then if Jane was one of them, who was the other. Certainly it was not John. I wondered how many could be involved. Who were they, and mostly why. I opened the door and got into my car. It was just as I left it. It appeared no one had been inside, since I closed the door Thursday, when I went into the bar. With Jane running errands, I had some time for a little investigation. I took the keys out of my pocket and started the car. I drove through town and past the police station. I wanted to go in. I knew now, for sure, that I did not black out from booze, or do anything terrible, as suggested by John and Jane. I remembered everything perfectly, up until being smashed in the head. But if I go inside and talk to the police, I thought, if I am wrong about anything, Jane and John, if innocent, would never trust me again. Trust is the key to all healthy relationships. It is earned over time, and once broken, almost impossible to regain. To accuse someone with no real proof, would not be prudent on my part. Not yet anyway. I loved Jane, and my brother John. For now, the benefit of the doubt is theirs, I hope not in vain. I continued on past the station and headed toward my dark prison hoping to find some kind of clue or answer. The name of the street and house number, were imprinted on my brain. I parked a short distance away, but close enough to see any action. I was hoping to see someone go in or out. Someone, anyone, who might help me solve my painful mystery. I was sitting in the car for about fifteen minutes when I saw a big black Lincoln suv pull in front of the house. I watched intently as a man, a tall broad shouldered man, climb out from the back seat. He walked up to the house, opened the door and went inside. A few seconds later, he stormed out. The look on his face was mean and angry. He got back into the car, slammed the door, and it sped away. Caught up in the moment I forgot to get the license plate number. I quickly started my car and followed him. I knew didn't have a lot of time before Jane would be home, but I followed him anyway. He was headed back through town, from the way I had come. I kept a good distance as not to be seen. I saw the left turn signal begin to flash and then the driver turned into the police station. My mind went wild. Who was this guy? Was he involved in my kidnapping? Was it he who bashed in my skull? And how , why would he be going into the station? There was no area to pull over on the road, and I was not going to get so close, as to follow him into the parking lot. I drove past and continued on my way. I was able however, to get his license number as I past. I headed toward home, feeling a bit satisfied with seeing the man, and getting his plate number. Tomorrow was Sunday. I would simply tell Jane I was going out, and I would investigate more. I got home just minutes before Jane. I scurried into the house, turned on the television, and got myself settled down, just as she pulled into our driveway. I was confused and not sure about anything. I was losing my trust in her, with only circumstantial evidence. I kept telling myself, Jane could not be involved. We, as John said, were the happiest couple in town. We were best friends and totally in love. Twenty years we had together. It could not be her. I tried to convince myself of this, but my brain would have no part of it. It was just after ten when she opened the door. I was lying on the couch and pretended to be asleep. I didn't want to talk. I wanted her to go to bed, as I knew I was not going to be able to sleep. My mind was racing, and I need to make a plan for tomorrow. I needed to know the truth. Jane covered me with a blanket and kissed my lips with hers. Quietly she whispered goodnight to me. I laid still and silent. I spent a few hours figuring out my avenue of investigation. I decided I would watch the house for a while and if no one came or went, I would just knock on the door. What could happen in broad daylight. If anyone answered the door I would play dumb and ask for directions. There was the possibility however, that they might know me. It was a chance I would have to take. If no one answered, maybe I'd go in. It was around two thirty in the morning, when I was finally able to sleep. If you could call it that. I tossed and turned until seven, when I heard Jane moving around upstairs. I got up and went to take a pee meeting her at the bottom of the stairs. Good morning she said, once again putting her arms around me. Good morning Jane. I was noticeably standoffish and she asked me what was wrong. I told her that I didn't sleep well and with all of what was happening I was feeling a bit depressed. I understand she said. You are going through a lot. I promise George, everything will be just fine. Yea, for you I thought to myself, I'm the one who will be dead. I know it will, I said, it's just gonna take some time for me to recover. I made a couple of western omelettes for our breakfast. Jane made the coffee. On a usual Sunday, I make breakfast, lunch and dinner, and do the dishes. Jane works hard all week, and still she makes dinner for us, and cleans the kitchen. She is fabulous. I'm going to go out today I told her. Where to she asked? Well I want to drive out to the park, and hike the trails for a while. I need to clear my head and try to relax. This whole mess has made me a wreck. That is a wonderful idea she said. You always like hiking and it does relax you. Would you like me to pack you a lunch and some water. No I said. If I get hungry I'll grab a hot dog at the stand in the park, but thank you Jane. What are your plans for the day I asked? Oh nothing special. I am going to do some laundry, and maybe read my book for a while. Maybe go to the consignment shop this afternoon. Alright then I said, I'll see you around dinner time. Jane stood on her tippy toes and kissed me. She held it until I kissed her back. Are you sure you want to go hiking she asked smiling? I smiled back and told her I really needed to get out in the air. Ok she said, I'll see you tonight. Be careful, oh and George, I love you. I love you too, I said, as I closed the door behind me. I stood for a second looking at the blood on the roof and window. My blood. I couldn't help but to think, that this blood, is when and where this whole thing started. I then thought maybe I'm wrong. Who ever hit me had a plan also. Their plan began long before my blood was ever spilled. I got into the car and slowly pulled out of the driveway. I looked at Jane's car. Wish me luck Jane, I said to myself, wish me luck. I was at the house in fifteen minutes. 1313 Mockingbird Lane. An address I would never forget. I stayed in the car watching for almost an hour. There were no cars in front of the house. I was shaking all over, just thinking about what I was about to do. Was I stupid? I didn't even have a weapon to defend myself. I stepped out of my Mustang, and walked toward the front door. It was an old Victorian style house with a black metal gate. Parts of the landscape were a bit overgrown. I walked up the stairs and onto the porch. I was in terror. Somehow I managed to calm myself. I knew I needed to act casual, and it took all the savvy I could muster, just to stand there. I used the big metal door knocker, and knocked hard on the door. I waited about a minute, and then knocked again even louder. No one came to the door. I tried the knob. It was locked. I knocked once more for safety sake, and then darted around the house to the back door, which I had previously escaped from. It was unlocked. I entered slow and cautiously. My eyes roaming and scanning the room, as I walked through the house. I remembered the eery quiet from before. I looked all around for mail, or something with names or any clues, but found nothing. I noticed everything was covered with a thick layer of dust. It was as if no one had lived here for a years. The fridge was empty, and the cabinets were bare. The electric was on and so was the heat, but other than that, there was no sign of anyone living here. Looking closer, even though there was all this dust on the furniture, the floor was clean. The wood was polished and shiny. I walked over to the hall, by the room where I climbed out of my dark dungeon, and as I went into the room, I was stunned. The heavy carpet was gone, and so was the trap door. I kicked at the wooden floor looking for a hollow sound, but could find none. How could it be? I was just in here a little over a day ago. I thought about what Jane said. Was I really forgetting things. Did I imagine being held captive? Hallucinations? My cracked head was real, and so was the blood on my car. I remembered this house and street number. This is impossible I thought. I headed to the backdoor and left. There was nothing to find here but more confusion. I headed home feeling worse than when I woke up this morning. Was I going insane? I still had one more lead to follow. The man in the Lincoln, and I had the license plate number. Chapter Four As I was driving back toward home, I realized that I had told Jane, that I would be hiking all day. So I have plenty of time to investigate further. The police station was just ahead. Maybe they would search the license plate number for me. Then I remembered the man in the Lincoln had also gone there. But why, who was he? I drove past the station and to the park. I pulled in and parked in the far back corner where I was somewhat hidden. I got out and walked to the edge of the woods. I found a heavy log, and brought it back to the car. I had an Idea. I will bash in my front corner panel, and then go to the station, and report a hit and run. I will give them the mans license plate number, and they will have no choice but to write a report. Surely his name and address will be on it. If I was to just ask them to search it, that would only bring up too many other questions. Like why I wanted it, what was my interest with the man etc. I would be a suspect before even doing anything. I was not yet ready to tell them my story. I took the log and slammed it into the car as hard as I could. Then I did it again, right in the same spot. I brushed off the wooden crumbs of bark, and threw the log back into the woods. It looked pretty good. I'll say he hit me in the quicky mart, while I was in line to pay, and saw the whole thing. I started the car and headed out of the park. When I reached the entrance, I turned left, back toward the police station. Glancing through the park, at the other end of the lot, over by the trail heads, I saw Johns car. What was he doing there? Again my mind began to travel the road of paranoia. Was he gonna kill me up on the trail? Did he know I was there? Worst of all, did Jane set this in motion. I turned my car around and drove back into the lot, and over to Johns car. No one was around. I climbed out of my car and went to his. Right away I saw it. On the floor in the backseat, was a big long black flashlight, kind of like the one the police use. I'd swear I even saw dry blood on the end of it. He said he lent his flashlight to his friend Paul. I thought maybe he was lying at the time, but this, I mean really. Looking further, nothing else seemed to be what I remembered from yesterday's ride to the diner, or the ride home. It was the same year make and model, and color, but Johns was messy inside. This one was clean, like it was just detailed. I looked again at the flashlight. Could this have been what struck my head? I tried the door but it was locked. Not fully sure that this was Johns car after all, and not wanting to falsely accuse him, I wrote down the plate number, and the vehicle id number from on the inspection sticker. I will drive by Johns later and check to be sure. Again I headed out of the park and turned left toward the police station. This time as I looked back at the car, I saw a woman getting inside. Instantly, my mind thought of the other woman's voice I heard while being held captive in that dark dungeon. I pulled over on the side of the road, and thought it best to follow her. When she pulled out onto the road, she turned left also. When she was a short distance ahead, I pulled out and followed her. My heart was pounding when she suddenly stopped, and turned into the police station. Afraid again, I drove past. I pulled into the donut hut, right next door to the station, and watched as she got out of her car and went inside. If I was not paranoid before, I was now. In a few minutes she exited the building with a man. A tall broad shouldered man. It was the man from the Lincoln, who had entered the house after I escaped. The same man who drove into the police station when I followed him. The same one who's license plate I was going to report had hit my car and left the scene. Oh god, I thought. Who is this guy? Who is this woman? Filing a false report did no longer seem to me a good idea. How else could I trace the plates if not through the police. I watched as the two got into the car, and pulled out onto the main road. I followed in apprehension, not knowing what to expect next. After a few familiar turns, they pulled in front of the old Victorian home. The man got out and went into the house. After almost five minutes, the woman too, got out and went inside. I sat in my car watching for what felt like a lifetime. Who were these people, what were they up too. Two hours past and finally the woman came out. As she began to pull away, I started my car and stealthily followed as not to be seen. What I failed to realize at the time, was the Lincoln pulled out of the driveway and was behind me. I could see the man in my mirror. It was him alright. Was he following me or her? I was breathing fast and heavy and my heart was thumping out of my chest. Did they know it was me. Did they see me following them? I thought it wise to make a turn and not follow the woman. I put on my turn signal to turn, and looked in the mirror again. The lincoln also had its turn signal on. At the last moment, I went straight instead and turned my signal off. The man made the turn and continued down that road. Feeling somewhat more comfortable, I again took up my pursuit of the woman in the car that looked like my brother Johns. I followed her up into the north section of town. The area my brother lives. Sure enough, she pulled into his driveway. She went to the door, he opened it, they exchanged some words, and then she proceeded to walk up the street. I watched her go into a house just up the road from his. She must be the neighbor he said he lent his car to, to go food shopping. I was now even more confused. His neighbor, the park, the perfume smell, the man in the lincoln, the police, and John and Jane. What is happening. I couldn't put it together yet but I was forming some Ideas in my head. Despite being paranoid, this was real. Someone hit me on the head, and hit me hard. It was now early afternoon and I was hungry. I went to the same diner I had with John, the morning after my escape. Hello George. Hi Maggie I replied. What will it be asked Maggie? I'll have a coffee, black with sugar, and a tuna on toasted rye bread. Coming right up she replied. I asked her how well she knew John. I have known John for about a year. He started coming here just after he lost his wife Karen. It took him some time to get over her she said. Now he comes here for lunch quite often with a female acquaintance. Oh, I said inquisitively? I pulled out my wallet to show her a picture of Jane. Is this the woman I asked? Again my heart was pounding hard. My whole head and body were throbbing. I could even hear the beat in my ears. I was ready to explode anticipating her answer. Maggie looked at me. He has been here with this one too she said, although more frequently with another woman. I think John said she was his neighbor. Both of them are very pretty. My heart sank. My eyes flooded with tears. I left my sandwich and coffee on the counter. I was no longer hungry. I mumbled the words goodbye and headed out. My mind was reeling, my soul crushed. My heart torn out of my chest and tossed into the road of hell. I wished they had killed me. I thought about all I knew so far. John and his neighbor. His car, the flashlight, the smell of perfume, pot roast dinner at Johns, the neighbor and the man, the two woman at the house, no trap door in the floor, the police station. Lunch together, lies and deceit, it just isn't fair. What was I missing? Nothing makes any sense. I sat in my car crying, not believing, but believing everything and anything possible. My true love, my best friend betraying me. The man, I thought, who the hell is the man? What is his connection to all this. I vowed right there to find out. To figure out everything. I wanted to know, no, I needed to know the truth. The entire truth no matter how ugly. I would not ask Jane or John anything. I was gonna learn the truth on my own. It was nearly three pm and my mind was clearing for the first time in three days. Taxes I thought. Somebody is paying tax on that house and property. I'll go to the tax office right now and find out. I started my car and I drove. It took me almost thirty minutes to get there. I jumped from my car with a new invigoration and quickly made my way to the office door. Closed. I had forgotten it was Sunday. I decided to call my boss and take the week off. I had much to investigate and my life wouldn't be right until I knew the entire truth. Somewhat reluctantly, I headed home to Jane. I will keep this all to myself until I'm done. When I got home Jane's car was not there. She did say she might go to the consignment shop. Yea right, what, John's consignments? Oh man was I getting bitter. I took the private time to call the boss and work out the time off. He understood and said good luck, be careful, and I'll see you next week. After that, I began to make dinner. I would play business as usual for now. When Jane returned home, dinner was ready and waiting. I hope your hungry I said. I am said Jane, I have not eaten since breakfast. I was worried about you all alone up on the trails. I hope you got a chance to relax and collect your thoughts. I know all this has been very hard on you. She smiled and walked over, and got very close to me, put her arms up around my neck, and pressed her body close to mine. Not this time I thought to myself. Business as usual George, uttered my brain quietly. She pressed harder into me and I began to melt. I put my arms around her and pulled her as tight as I could pressing our bodies together everywhere. Suddenly all I wanted was her. She put her lips to mine, and mine crushed hers, as that feeling coursed through my body. Dinner can wait I thought. I picked her up in my arms and carried her upstairs to our bedroom. Dinner was cold when we ate. Jane heated it up for us in the microwave. I love you George Roberts she said. I looked at her with love and pain in my heart, and lust in my loins. I love you to Mrs Roberts I whispered in her ear. I was like butter, and she a hot flame. We slid to the floor and let our dinner get cold again. She was my favorite of every menu on earth. We woke up on the kitchen floor in each others arms, around five am. I have to go to work Mr Roberts, she said. I know, I said. We kissed and warmed each other one more quick time before she headed to the shower. I put on a pot of coffee, and heated up a danish for her. All that has gone on, and I am drawn to her so unimaginably. After her coffee, she hugged me once more. Do you want me to call in sick George, she said with that devilish smile. I thought for a second and said, we aren't rich. We both can't take off. Then I smiled. She kissed me and rubbed her body hard into mine and out the door she went. I'll see you later Jane. I love you. The words just came out on their own. I love you too George, see you tonight. I cleaned the kitchen and then took a long hot shower. My heart cried inside. I wish I could have just forgotten everything right then and there, and just had Jane. Nothing else would matter. But my head, half cracked open told me otherwise. I got dressed, and headed over to the tax office. Answers. I needed answers. The tax assessor was busy with another person and I had to wait. When my turn came, I gave him the address of the house, and asked him for any information he may have on the public record. He entered the address into his computer, and in a few minutes printed out a copy for me. That'll be five bucks he said. I gave him a ten and he gave me five back. I took the copy and headed toward the door. Just then it dawned on me, I'll get the tax records on the woman's house too. I used the map of block and lots he had, to get the address. He put it in the computer, and took my other five dollars back. I folded both copies together and headed back to my car where I could read them in private. When I got outside my car was being towed by the police. Wait I said, I'm right here. Sorry pal, you blocked a fire hydrant. You can pick up your car at the impound yard after you pay the fine at the police station. I went back inside the tax office and called a cab. I needed my car, and I needed it now. I was somehow by fate, being forced into the police station. The taxi arrived fairly quick, and I hopped in and said, to the police station driver, and off we went. I scanned the station parking lot for the Lincoln suv, but it was not there. But hiding far in the corner behind a police van was a car I did recognized, only to well. It was Jane's car. I became increasingly nervous and wondered if I should go in at all. I needed my car, that was my excuse. But why would Jane, be at the police station. Why was her car all the way in the corner behind the van? My mind began racing to all kinds of conclusions. None of which I wanted to be true. I got out of the cab and walked to the front door of the Police Station. I took a couple of deep breaths, and then with everything I had, I entered the building. I went to the front desk and told the officer that my car was towed. He asked me my name. Roberts, George Roberts I said. For a split second you could have heard a mouse breathe. He looked at me and said, I'll be right back. He proceeded down a short hallway to an office of some kind. My heart started getting loud again. A moment later he came back and told me he would be right with me. He then made a phone call. I could not hear anything he said except yes sir I understand. The officer then hung up and returned to the front desk where I was waiting. Your vehicle has just reached the impound yard. It will be a couple hours before we have the paperwork ready. You will have to wait. My fear and anxiety were quickly replaced with curiosity. I began looking around for Jane. I walked the length of a couple of the hallways. It felt as if everyone was watching me. I peeked into office after office. Any door that was open I looked inside, and not seeing Jane I moved on. Peoples names were written on the doors. I looked at them also but didn't really pay attention. When I exhausted my search, I made my way back to the front desk. The officer was busy with another person and it seemed he had no concern in my presence. I walked outside and looked over to the corner of the lot. I thought for a second. I was almost fooled by Johns car, maybe this one wasn't Janes after all. As I walk closer and closer it became evident that it was indeed Janes. All the little fuzzy animals on the dash were there for all to see. Where could she be? Then I thought of the man in the lincoln. His car was not there. Perhaps they were together. No, I thought. She would never. I thought of John, and what Maggie said, about her being with him at the diner before. We had just had an entire night of absolutely wonderful sex, surely she wasn't cheating. I mean really, how much of an appetite could one have. I began to think maybe I was a bad lover. Maybe I was not satisfying her as well as I thought. Maybe I was not as endowed as I thought after all. My soul began to hit bottom. I needed to change my thinking to something more positive. We always had such great communication, or so I thought. I always listened and remembered the little things. We talked often. I was at a loss. I went back into the station house and sat in a chair and waited. It was close to five when the officer called my name. I got up and went to the front desk and paid the fine. I called for a cab and sat back down. Just then the man walked through the door. He was taller than I thought and built like a professional football player. Jane was not with him. As he walked down the hall, people acknowledged him. He was someone important but I had no Idea who. He was dressed in a suit, not a police uniform like most of the people in the building. I was very intimidated by him, especially under these circumstances. The cabbie honked the horn and I left the building. I looked toward Jane's car. It was gone. I jumped into the cab and gave him the address on my receipt . As he drove, I opened the folded copies of the tax papers in my pocket. As my eyes scrutinized the copies I was astonished. Both had the same name listed as the taxpayer on each of the properties. A small bungalow in the north section, and an old mansion just outside of town. Who had that kind of money around here. The name on the forms was Daniel Chan. Chief Inspector, Daniel Chan. I remembered that name from one of the doors in the police station. It was the biggest office there. He was the man in the Lincoln. The man at the house. The man with the woman. And now it seems, the man with my wife. Chapter 5 1/4/2018
I climbed out of the cab, paid him, and went into the police impound office. I'd like to pick up my car I said. Do you have the release form sir, the man asked? Yes I said, and reached into my pocket and gave it to him. He looked it over and told me that everything was in order, and to have a seat, while he gets someone to drive the car around. As I sat, I noticed some pictures on the wall. I stood up and looked at them. They seemed to be of some type of police party event. People at tables eating and drinking, and a few of people at a podium speaking. Then there were a few, of groups of people together, coworkers and friends possibly, just smiling for the camera. Within seconds he caught my eye. It was the man in the Lincoln. He was in a group picture with two other well dressed men. Chan, I mumbled to myself. I wondered what might be the occasion for the party. In another picture, of a table off in the corner, was who I thought looked a lot like Johns neighbor. The same woman I followed to the house with the Inspector. I wondered to myself, if she was the other woman who's voice, I heard while being held captive. I went over to the window and asked the attendant what the the event was. Oh he said, that was the mayor's birthday party. Oh I said, which one is the mayor? He pointed to the picture of Chan and the other two men. The one on the left is Chief Inspector Chan, the Mayor is in the middle, and the Captain is on the right. They are all pretty good friends he added. It's great how they use our tax money to have fun he said sarcastically. I could tell the attendant was a bit disgruntled. I however, was now engrossed in the picture even more. The man on the left he had said was Chan. But the man in the Lincoln was the one in the middle. He was the mayor. Chan owned the properties, but he was not the man from the Lincoln who I had followed at the house. I had just assumed that was his name at the police station. I thought to myself. It was confusing. The man I was following in the Lincoln, and who I had seen at the house, and at the police station, was the Mayor, the big broad shouldered guy. I have never seen Inspector Chan before this picture. His name is on the tax records of both houses though. The one I was held captive in, and the one which the woman lives in by my brother John. I guess they are friends I thought. I was held captive in the Chief Inspectors house, which the Mayor and this woman were in for hours, and, Chan owns her house too. I looked again at the picture which the woman was in. It was her alright. I looked toward the window and asked the guy, who's this pretty woman here, pointing at her. He smiled. She's been the topic of more than one conversation around here he said. She's a real doll isn't she. None of us have a clue who she is, but she must know someone or be family to one of the higher ups, or she wouldn't be at that party. He laughed again, this time a bit louder. Just then a man walked in and handed me my keys. Your car is out front he said. I said thank you to him, looked at the attendant and said thanks pal, have a great day. He smiled and said take care. It felt good to be back in my car. It's like having a little more control, or maybe just a more secure feeling. It was just two o'clock. I was hungry and decided to go grab a burger and fries for lunch. I drove into town and went to the Grill. The bar where my life was forever to change. I went inside and sat at a table in the corner. I liked being able to see all I could going on around me. I ordered my food and a nice cold beer. As I was waiting for my order, two fellas walked in, and out of the whole place, took the table next to mine. The waitress came and took their order and brought my beer at the same time. In a couple minutes she was back with a whole pitcher of beer and two large frozen mugs for them. I sipped my beer and was trying to sort through the last few days events, but the two of them were very talkative, and very loud. I could only imagine how loud they would be after the pitcher was gone. One of them was quite young, maybe twenty two, and the other maybe in his fifties. I couldn't help but hear everything they were saying. It was work talk. Apparently they were floorlayers. The young one was asking questions about the job and the older guy was trying to explain things to him. They talked about installing and working with wood flooring. Now they had my full attention. Just then my food arrived. As soon as the waitress left my table, I interrupted them by saying excuse me, but I see you men do wood flooring. We do all kinds of flooring said the older man. Could I ask a question I said. Certainly said the older fellow. My name is Bob, and this is my helper Zach. Hi, Bob. Hi, Zach, I said. My question is this, if I wanted to remove a staircase and close up the floor to my basement, could it be patched with new hardwood to match the rest of the floor, and be like it was never there? Bob said yes it could be done, but it was very tricky. You would need a good floor layer with lots of experience with wood and stains. A lot of times though, looking closely you can still see a difference he said. Zach chimed in, not the one we did the other day. Bob really knows his stuff said Zach. We fixed the floor in an old mansion and it was invisible. Bob is the best. Well I'm not the best said Bob, but I always try my hardest. My heart was racing and my adrenaline rising fast. Wow, I said where was this mansion anyway. Bob looked at me, it was that huge old one over on Mockingbird lane. Really I said, you must have made a bundle of money in that rich neighborhood. I did ok he replied with a smile. Well I might just be in need of your services I said, can I have your card? They are in the truck. Zach said Bob, run out and get George here, a card. The waitress was now at the table with their food. It can wait I said, enjoy your meal. Join us said Bob. I grabbed my food and we ate and drank and talked for the better part of an hour. When we finished I grabbed their bill as well as mine. What's that for Bob asked. You have been more help than you know. I'll be calling you for sure. When we got to the parking lot Zach jumped in and handed me the card. I looked at it. The Wright Floor Company. I smiled, I'm guessing your last name is Wright huh Bob? Yea he laughed. Great play on words don't you think. I do I said. Well thanks again, I'll be calling you. Alrighty, said Bob, we'll talk more then. He started the van, and he and Zach drove off. Oh yes I thought, you will definately be hearing from me. The room was real, and now I can prove it. I was feeling a bit woozy from the beer, but my mind was in overdrive. I thought about the Mayor. He had walked into the station, and Janes car was gone, virtually at the same time. Although I thought, I didn't see the Lincoln when I left. Then I remembered the other woman had picked him up, and the Lincoln was at the house. Maybe it was there again today. I wondered, not wanting to believe my Jane was with him at all. After all, I did not see them together. In fact, I have never seen or heard of Jane with any other man than myself. Well except for what Maggie had said. I should have questioned her further on that. I was so distraught that I gave up. I will have to go back again and ask her a few more questions. I drove from the grill toward home, the back way. I had had those beers, and didn't want to get stopped. I'd swing by Johns and maybe talk with him a bit. I drove up the hill toward John's house. His car was not there. I would knock because he may have lent the car out again and be inside. I pulled into his driveway and parked. As I got out, his neighbor Paul said hello, and told me John had just gone out. Oh ok I said thanks. I thought fast and said, I was going to borrow his flashlight, I need to look at something under the car. Might you have one I asked Paul. I do he said. In fact, it is your brothers. I borrowed it the other evening. Fantastic I said. In a minute or two Paul came out with the flashlight. I crawled under the car with it and had no clue as to what I was gonna say. What's the problem asked paul? I, uh,, Um,, I have this strange rattle and I was hoping I could see something loose down here. Good luck, cars suck said Paul. Your brother is the car guy around here. He know quite a bit about them. Yea, he always did I said. I grumbled on my way out from under the car. Dirt and grease on me, and I didn't even touch anything. I seized the moment to question Paul some more. How's my brothers love life going I asked. Paul smiled and said, well, I see the girl up the street go in his house a lot. She's a looker too. How long have they been hooking up I asked. Paul thought for a minute, and said, I guess a few months now. She moved in just before Karen died, and all became friends, within days of moving here. Where is she from I asked. I think Indiana if I remember right. Her brother is some big wig here in town. You don't say. I said. Does she work? Paul looked toward her house. She is some kind of natural herbal something or other distributor, and I believe she just started a new job recently. Oh that's interesting I said. Did you find anything loose?asked Paul? No, I'll have to bring it to a garage I said. Just bring it here. I know your brother would love to look at it for you, and also he would enjoy your company. That's a great idea Paul, I just might do that. I really need to talk to him anyway. I can kill two birds with one stone. Flashlight I thought to myself and smiled. Thanks paul I said handing him the light. Anytime George, catch ya later. Paul went in and I left. It was dark and time for me to head home. Jane would be there soon and I wanted to be there first. I pulled into the driveway and noticed there were lights on in the house. I was the last to leave this morning after my shower and I turned them all off. Jane was still at work and her car was not here. I quietly closed my car door and sneaked over to the side of the house. I looked into the living room window but saw no one. I creeped my way to the backdoor. That end of the house was still dark. I used my key and opened the door. It creaked a little and I froze in my tracts. I waited to hear any noise coming from inside, but nothing. I slowly went in. Again my heart pounding. It's a wonder I don't have a heart attack I thought. I wasn't as afraid at the moment. This was my house, and I knew my way around in the dark. Even in the light I know it better than an intruder. I even know where stuff is to pick up as a weapon if I need to. Damn I thought. Maybe I should grab something now. The back door opens into a small mudroom, and the furnace room is right next to that. There is a piece of pipe right by the door I thought. I'll grab it and continue in. Pipe in hand, I walked slow and quiet further into the house. I could see clearly now as I was in the lighted area. I heard someone in the hall just four feet around the wall from where I was standing. I lifted the pipe ready to swing. As I rounded the corner my arm began to fall with a good amount of force. GEORGE, she screamed. My arm stopped in mid air. It was Jane. You scared the crap out of me she said. I almost killed you I said. I dropped the pipe and instinctively grabbed her and pulled her close. She threw her arms around me and held tight. I'm sorry for scaring you I said. I thought you were at work, and your car is not here. I thought someone was in our home. I held her tighter. Where is your car I asked? There is a new girl in our office who had a family emergency, and I loaned her my car. I took my arms from around her and backed away just a little. What happened I asked. I don't know. We no sooner sat down to work and she received a call. Where is her car I inquired? She told me it is broke down. I felt bad and just gave her mine to use until tomorrow. I hope you don't mind said Jane. No not at all I said excitedly. I am quite relieved. Relieved? Relieved about what? Um, relieved that you weren't a burglar. How did you get home anyway I asked? Well I called here looking for you first, and then I just called a cab. I left a message but you were not home. I looked toward the desk, and sure enough, the little red light was flashing. I put my arms tightly around her and pulled her body tight to mine. I whispered in her ear. I love you so much Jane. Let me take you someplace extra special for dinner. Jane squeezed me really tight. I love you too George, and dinner out, sounds wonderful.
The Dinner Chapter six 1/10/18 My paranoia was a lot less frequent now, and I was even thinking Jane and John, may be completely innocent in this whole thing. It was a good move on my part that I didn't try to confront them. After Jane and I showered, (one of those long showers), we got dressed we left for dinner. Where are you taking me asked Jane. McDonald's I said smiling. She looked at me with a scowl. I'm kidding I said. I was thinking of The Manor. The Manor was a very luxurious restaurant and banquet hall. It catered to the most prestigious of people. Actors, politicians and even the wealthy criminal element ,were active members, that frequented the Manor. Weddings and special functions, were also held there often. Dinner plates started at about one hundred dollars, and went up from there. We had never been there before and well, just this once it would be special. My trust in Jane was getting stronger again. " The Manor" Exclaimed Jane! We can't afford The Manor. Let me worry about that I said. This night is for you. I want you to order whatever you want. No hunting for any kind of discounts or specials. We are going all out. I love you Jane. I love you too George she said. I got out of the car and went around and opened the door for Jane. The valet was standing by my door waiting. I guess he wanted a tip. I gave him five dollars and he said thank you sir. I felt a bit foolish among all the black and white limousines, but there was the occasional commoners car like mine, so it wasn't that bad. I hoped I tipped him enough I thought, I never had someone park my car before. Jane and I walked up the wide white stairs, and into the Manor we went. It was huge inside, and talk about ritzy. Marble and granite floors and walls, Statues and paintings decorated the inside. There was a water fountain in the middle of the foyer, shooting different colors of water is spiraling motions. There were plants blooming like the garden of Eden. It was like being in a palace of Rome, back in the days of Caesar. We didn't see any one famous, but the place abounded with rich people. The maitre D, led Jane and I to our table. It was on the left side of the room, under some kind of small tree, by the side of the indoor stream, that ran a course, throughout the dining area. Plants of all kinds and sizes, covered the room. Look said Jane, there are fish in the water. Sure enough, the stream was loaded with Trout. Boy, it must be nice to be filthy rich I thought to myself. Our waitress came over and introduced herself to us. Hi Mr and Mrs Roberts, my name is Jenn, and I'll be at your beck and call this evening. If there is anything at all you need, just ask. She then handed us our menus. May I bring you some beverages while you decide on your order? Jane ordered a glass of white chablie. I changed it to a half carafe. I would also drink wine. Very good choice said Jenn, I'll be right back with your drinks. Jane took one look at the menu, there are no prices on here George she said. It's only one night. Relax Jane, and just enjoy the moment. She smiled at me and said, the filet mignon and lobster looks excellent. I'm sure it is I said. The duck la ronge looks tasty too she laughed at me. Get whatever you desire. This is your night babe. Soon the waitress was back with our wine. She poured a small amount in my glass. I felt funny but I played the game. I swirled the wine around in the glass, gently smelled it, and then took a good taste. Perfect I said, thank you Jenn. She then poured about half a glass for both Jane and myself. Have you decided on dinner she asked? Not just yet said Jane, but if I may ask, is there an order in which the pricing is set in the menu items. Jenn smiled and said, some prices are set, and some are market value. The more expensive ones are toward the top of the menu. I gave a stern look to Jane. It wasn't that I cared about how it looked, it was about her just relaxing and enjoying a meal without worrying about money. Thankyou said Jane, we will be ready to order in just a few minutes. Alright then said Jenn, I'll come back in a short while. We looked over the menu, and slowly decided on what we wanted to eat. When Jenn came back we ordered. Jane got the Filet mignon and lobster, and so did I. My mouth was watering for it. As we sat waiting we drank our wine. We talked about some of the people we saw there, wondering who they were and what they did for a living. After our second glass, I decided to ask Jane about the diner, and my brother John. Jane I said, you told me you haven't seen my brother John since Karen's funeral. John told me that you both had lunch a couple times. Why didn't you tell me? Jane turned white. She was looking right at me I thought, when her eye's kept starring and they were following someone behind me. When I turned to look, there was no one there. What's wrong I asked, what were you looking at. Jane looked into my eyes and said, John asked me not to tell you. He was having a very hard time after losing Karen, and he needed a shoulder to cry on, and someone who he could talk to. He did not want you to be worrying about him. So I didn't tell you. I'm sorry George. I now wondered what evoked the startled look in Jane. Was it simply my question, or did something else frighter her. Oh ok, I said, I can understand that. I'm glad John felt he could confide in you, and I'm also glad you kept his confidence. Maggie was telling the truth. Yes, I would question her further. Jenn came and set up a small tray on the side of our table. She then came back with our meal, set it on the tray, and then began serving us. When we were all set up to eat, she asked if there was anything else we needed. We said we were just fine for now and off she went. I filled our glasses once more and we dug in to eat. The lobsters were the biggest I ever saw, and the filet was indescribably delicious. It melted in my mouth like butter. The most tender meat I have ever eaten. The lobster like wise was incredible. I just kept eating. I was stuffing it in an washing it down with mouthfuls of wine. Jane however was barely eating. She was drinking her fair share of wine though. The caraff was empty. I signaled Jenn with a hand gesture and she was at the table in a flash. What can I do she asked politely? More wine I bellowed. Coming right right up sir. She was back within a minute or two with another half carafe. I was beginning to feel the effects of the wine. My food was gone, and I was picking at Janes plate. Jane drank another glass of wine. I ate half of what was still on her plate and polished off two more fairly full glasses. We sat looking at each other kind of quiet. Jenn took away the plates and asked us if we wanted desert. Jane never turns down desert, but tonight she did. She ordered just a cup of coffee. I was full. But more wine sounded great. When Jane had finished her coffee, she was in a bit of a hurry to leave. Let's go, she said, I want to get out of here. I filled my wine glass one more time and chugged it like a pig. I don't think Jane appreciated it. Nor did anyone one else who saw me. I signaled Jenn again. She came like lightning. We'll have the check I said to her. Your check has been paid in full Jenn said. I was stunned. By who I asked her. Another patron in the establishment asked not to be revealed, paid for your meals, drinks, and even the tips. But who I asked again? Jenn replied, sir, I will lose my job if I say. He is a very powerful man. I looked at Jane. Her color was again pale. What is wrong I asked her. Nothing George, I don't feel well. Can we please just leave? Ok I said, let's go. I thanked Jenn and said goodbye. While walking out, Jane said she had to go to the bathroom, and she would meet me out front. I'll wait in here I said. Just get the car, I want to go home, Jane replied kind of sternly. I went outside and gave the valet my ticket. He got the car in a flash. I went to give him another five dollars, but he refused it, saying it was already taken care of. Here we go again. By who I asked. He looked at me. I am not allowed to say sir. I am sorry. Come on pal, you can tell me. I'm not one of these rich people. Miss Vicky, he whispered lowly. Just then Jane came outside and jumped into the car, before I could go around and open the door. Miss Vicky, I thought, who is Miss Vicky? I climbed into the mustang, put it in gear, and drove out of The Manor. I was driving half drunk. My mind was flooded with wine and confusion. Who hit me? Who wanted me dead? Who was this Miss Vicky? Who was this powerful man buying our dinner? Jane's color was back but her eyes were swelling up and tearing. What is wrong I asked her again ? It is the wine she said. I drank to much. Yes, I said, so did I. GEORGE, Jane screamed! I pulled the steering wheel hard to the right and slammed the brake. The car skidded and swerved back and forth. I pulled over right away. That was a close one I said to Jane. I almost killed us both. I wish you would have she said. We were up at five AM, and I was driving Jane to work. I asked why she had made that statement last night, about wishing I had killed us both? I was drunk she said, I was just being sarcastic. I get depressed when I drink to much wine she said. It was nothing. I knew in my soul that it was something. Something had changed in her at the Manor. She saw something or someone, that greatly disturbed her. After nearly having the head on accident, I pulled into a gas station and paid them to tow my car home and give us a ride. It was well worth the eighty bucks. Jane hardly spoke a word all the way to work. I was quiet too, although my brain was working at full speed. I thought about our free dinner. Was it the wine or my head? A powerful man Jenn had said paid the bill. But a Miss Vicky, paid the valet? It made no sense to me. I've never been to the manor before, and I don't know these people. And Jane, the sudden outward change in her. Even now this morning, she is different. I pulled into the parking lot at Janes office, and there was her car. Oh god said Jane. She was all white again. Jane, what's wrong? Please tell me. Maybe I can help. No one can help me now she said. I'll be ok. I got out and walked around the car to let her out and she snapped at me. I'm not ten. I can get out on my own. I cringed. Where was the love of my life? I dared not even try to hug her. I thought for sure she would just get even more upset. I said ok Jane, I love you. Try and have a good day. I jumped back into the car. I watched as Jane went into the building. When the door closed I backed out of my spot and saw the woman getting out of Jane's car. Chapter Seven. It was John's neighbor. It was the woman in the picture at the impound yard. It was The woman I followed to the house with the mayor. I wondered if she was one of the two woman, that I heard speaking in the house, when I was held captive down in that darkened basement room. I began to think about Karen, my brothers deceased wife. A mysterious illness, never diagnosed by the doctors. I thought about this woman, moving in and becoming friends right before karen died. She was an herbalist. That made me even more curious. Now she is dating John, she was with the mayor for hours in the house, and now she works with my Jane. Who is this woman. I needed to find out more about her and I needed to know now. Well I thought, she is here at work, what better time to go and check out her house. I need to be careful as it's owner is the Chief Inspector. I drove to the northern end of town. The Northwood section. Up the hill I went. At the top of the hill I could see John's car in his driveway. I'll visit John, and then take a walk and look around. That was my plan. It was a good one. I knocked on the door. John answered with a big smile. Hey brother how are you he said. I'm great, I replied. Come to have me look at your car he asked. No I said, but I see you have been talking to paul. Yea, he mentioned you stopped by. I was wondering if you were going to come back? Well here I am I said. Come on in. I'll put on a pot of coffee. How have you been since your incident John asked. Oh ok I guess. I have been doing all kinds of investigating to figure out who hit and kidnapped me. Well what did you find out he asked? First let me ask you a few questions. Have you ever slept with Jane? What kind of question is that John retorted. No never, not in a million years. She is your wife. Why did you meet her for lunch at Maggie's I asked him. John replied. We had lunch two or three times he said. I was hurting after Karen's death and Jane wanted to know about how she died. She asked me a lot of questions about it. I told her all I knew. Then I asked him, you told me that I go out and get drunk all the time and that you even picked me up once and drove me home. Why would you say that? You couldn't possibly know. Well said John, to be completely honest, Jane told me. When we had lunch she said you were drinking a lot and blacking out. She said it was getting worse and worse. And you believed her I asked? I'm your brother, why didn't you ask me. I was hurting so bad John said. I needed to company. I guess after hearing it a few times, I just believed it. John didn't sound defencive, he sounded just like a lonely guy, in need of companionship. What about your girlfriend I asked? Girlfriend? What girlfriend. If you are referring to Vicky, we are just good friends. She listens to me. She knows more about me and our family than anyone else I know. Your neighbors name is Vicky? I asked him inquisitively? Yes he replied, Vicky Chan. Her brother is my get out of jail free card if I ever need one he laughed. He is the Chief Inspector of the county. Yes I have heard of him, I said. Another cup asked John? Yea sure. We have a lot to discuss. I think I said, that Vicky poisoned Karen. I'm not sure why, but I believe she did. Also I believe she is involved in an affair with the Mayor. Mr. Stebe? John asked? Yes Mayor Stebe I said. I followed them to the house I was held captive in and they stayed in there alone for two hours. What else could it be? She now works with Jane, and has borrowed her car too, to go and see him. I think they were trying to set you up for killing me. In your back seat is a flashlight. I believe it is the one that hit me. John was out of his chair in seconds and ran to the car. He opened the back door and saw the flashlight. He grabbed it and brought it in the house. Who's is this he asked me? I don't know. What do you mean you don't know he asked? How did you know it was there? I had told Jane I was going to go hiking to clear my head. I was really investigating. I saw your car by the trails in the park. That is where I said I was going. I checked the car thinking I was paranoid and saw the flashlight. Then when I was leaving, I saw Vicky getting in your car. That is when I followed her to the police station, at the municipal building, and Mayor Stebe went with her to the house. I had seen him their once before, right after I escaped. He seemed really angry that I was gone. Last night I took Jane to dinner at The Manor, and some powerful anonymous guy picked up the tab. And a Miss Vicky, tipped the valet for our car. Is Jane involved he asked. I thought you both were I said, and then after a while I thought you both were not. But after last night I'm no sure about Jane any longer. I think My Jane, the love of my life was the woman in the house who said, "I want him dead". I need to get in Vicky's house I said. She leaves the back window open said John. But I don't know a thing. I'm going for a walk I said. Be smart and be careful George. I will I said, I'll be back soon. I slid the window up and climbed inside. I was confident she would not return as she was at work with Jane. I looked around for anything. Some kind of answers. Anything that would give me information. On the chair was a stunning low cut v neck very short black dress. On kitchen table was a pack of matches. They were from The Manor. Well she was there alright. I went into the bedroom. She had pictures of Karen and pictures of Jane all over the wall. The pictures of Karen were just of her, or her and John. The pictures of Jane, were of Jane and Mayor Stebe. Private intimate pictures. Some of the pictures were at least three years old. I could tell by her clothes and hair style. Some were fairly recent too. My heart sank and I cried right there. My heart was breaking in two. It was being torn right out of my chest while I was alive. The pain was unbearable. I got weak and dizzy and passed out and fell unconscious on Vicky's bedroom floor. I heard sounds as if in a hospital. I woke up handcuffed to the bed. There was an officer outside the door. I was in a hospital. What is going on I thought? What happened? I reached for the nurses call button and rang it over and over. No one came in. When the bell stopped ringing, I pushed the button again. This went on for almost an hour. Finally, a nurse came in and I asked in a panic what was happening, why was I here? Why was I handcuffed? You heart is broken she said. Broken? I thought. Then I remembered those pictures. Those horrid horrid pictures. Not my Jane, oh please god I cried not my Jane. The nurse told the officer that I was awake and asking a lot of questions. It took him almost twenty minutes before he came in, and when he did, he looked at me angrily like I murdered someone. Why am I handcuffed I said. You don't remember he asked? No I said. You were found unconscious in the Chief Inspectors sisters bedroom. You are charge with breaking and entering and being held without bail. You will be processed and brought to the county jail as soon as the doctor releases you. I remembered now entering her home and looking around and then finding the pictures. I wondered about John. Surely he saw the police and ambulance. And I'm sure they must have found my car at his house. I wasn't so worried about a breaking and entering charge, as I was about it being a house which was owned by the Chief Inspector of Police. Here I was hit on the head a week ago and held in a dungeon, and now I'm in a hospital being held captive by the police. My head began to throb, my heart was broken, and for some reason my ankle was really sore. Maybe I hit it on the bed rail when I fell. I asked the nurse for some aspirin and fell asleep. Wake up Roberts, wake up now. I felt a hand slap my face hard. I said get up. I opened my eyes and sat up. There were two cops. The doctor signed the release. Time to go to jail pervert. The one cop unlocked the handcuffs. Get dressed and hurry up. The officers were big and apparently having a bad day. I remember hoping they didn't take it out on me. I hurriedly got dressed and put on my shoes. Hands behind your back scumbag one of them said. I followed his orders and he put the cuffs on again. They read me my rights as they pushed me along through the hallways and out of the hospital. It was cold out and there was snow on the ground. I don't remember it being so cold or the snow. One of them opened the back door of the police car and the other one shoved me in hitting my head right on the spot which I had previously been struck. I whimpered as I fell into the car. My head really hurt. As they drove my mind just wondered numb. I thought of my years with my best friend and true love. Oh how I missed her. How I loved and longed for her to be with me at my side. And yet here I was going to jail. Where is Jane I asked myself. Why has she betrayed me? I looked out at the park as we passed by. I remembered once a long time ago when we were young, Jane and I suck up into the woods there and made love outside. Oh how I wish this was a dream and I would awaken and be with her again. We pulled into the station parking lot and then into a garage. the officers got out first and had to check their guns through a window where another officer logged them in. After that they roughly pulled me from the car and into an intermediate room. One door locked and then the next door opened. Once inside the processing began. they fingerprinted me and took my picture. Left, front, right. Then he asked me about tattoos and scars. I had to explain where each one was, and what they were of. Also how and when I got any scars. It took about three hours to be processed and then I was put in a cold room to wait. They even took my shoelaces so I didn't hang myself I guess. I may have if I had the chance. I had totally lost track of time now. It looked like late afternoon when we came but I wasn't sure. The chief Inspector came into the room I was in and whispered, I hope you enjoyed your meal the other night, it will be your last as a free man. Tomorrow I am revising your charges to include murder in the first degree. Murder I exclaimed, I didn't murder anyone. Who are you saying I murdered? He spit on me and walked out. Again I was taken to the intermediate room. After the first door locked the second opened. This time it was into a larger garage where a bus was waiting. The officers retrieved the weapons and then came into the garage. I was in line with about eleven others, heading to the county lockup. Handcuffed and shackled, I and those in the line, trudged up the steps and into the bus. Take a seat said the officer in charge. We all sat down. As the bus passed by the park and was headed out of down to the county jail, tears filled my eyes and I began to cry. Never was I in jail before, hell, I was never even arrested. The worst thing I ever did was get a drunk driving charge at age nineteen, so so long ago. It took about an hour to reach the county jail. It was a big jail for such a small county. Still in line we were stripped of all our possessions and clothes and given a orange jumpsuit. I'm innocent I yelled, I'm innocent. One of the guards hit me on the head with his baton, and I fell to the floor. He then dragged me to a cell and threw me on the floor and locked the door. Laying on the floor, my head splitting and my eyes seeing stars, as I was going out, I thought I saw in the cell across from me, my brother John.
Chapter Eight The Dream. I opened my eyes and we were driving on a high winding mountain road. Jane was much older than I remembered her. Her hair was grey, and her hands which were on the steering wheel, were well weathered. I could see she had worked hard in her lifetime. Jane's full attention was on driving. She appeared to be in a hurry and had a worried look on her face. Where are we going I asked her, but she didn't react to me. Jane I said loudly, where are we going? She didn't even flinch. I was invisible to her. She could not see or hear me. She just drove. The radio was off and that was unusual for Jane. She liked music, and loved singing whenever she was driving, especially when she was all alone. I sat there as she drove, I must be dead I thought. I tried to touch her but my finger passed right through her. She sped around bend after bend. Her car handled very well on the road, and she was a good driver. Her car was good too. She had a Subaru. But where was she going? I was not with her. Was she running from something ? Someone? Me! I thought. She is running from me. My Jane, my wonderful Jane. I tried to throw my arms around her in a panic. It was as if she was just a spirit as my arms passed through and fell back toward me. I looked at her closer, she was older, I know this old Jane. Somehow, I just know her. I looked at the road ahead, I looked back at Jane. She was different now. She was very young. It was around when we first met. Her hands gripped the wheel tight. Her fists were white from squeezing so hard. Her old Impala screeching around each bend in the road. Still running. Racing to something or someone ahead. Faster I yelled, faster. Jane just drove. I wondered in my soul about life with another person. There was no life without Jane. Living without Jane would be like being in jail. Jail, I thought of Jail. Life without my beloved Jane. Suddenly I was in the back seat, and someone new was sitting next to Jane as she drove. I tried to see who it was but there was no face. I heard Jane speak, then I heard a muffled reply. It was a woman. Our new passenger was a woman. A woman with no face. Jane drove off the cliff. We all just sat in the car quietly as it fell down the canyon wall. We were just about to hit bottom, and I woke up in the car. We were back on the mountain road. Just Jane and I. Her face seemed more worn than before. Yes, Jane has paid her dues in life I thought. Hit her John said, it's her fault. Everything is her fault. Jane looked frightened. John was angry. Hit her he said again. My arm was back and my fingers were clenched. I swung my arm as hard as I could. Jane smiled and said not now I'm driving. I looked at her. What? I yelled. But Jane just drove. The edge of the road met the tire on every bend now. She was going to kill us. I felt it coming. I loved you I screamed, I loved you with all my heart. I still love you Jane. Whatever you've done I love you. I love you too she said. She sounded like a man. I love you George, I love you George. God she sounded like a man. She sounded like my brother. I love you George, George, ohhh George. My eyes opened. It was John. I was still on the floor. I looked across to to where I heard him and sure enough, it was him in the other cell. I collected my thoughts. You were dreaming allot he said. You have been moaning and yelling in your sleep for hours. How do you feel John asked me? Better I said, and then told him about the dream. It was so strange I said. I know it was a dream, but Jane was much older. Something about her being so old was very familiar to me. Dreams are like that said John. We have a lot to discuss he said. Why are you in here I asked him. John looked at me and got his thoughts together. Well, he said, after you went to Vicky's house and didn't return, I also went up there. When I looked into the back window, Vicky was standing over you with a gun in her hand. You were out cold on the floor. I thought you were dead. I grabbed her arm and we wrestled for a second and the gun went off. I killed Vicky. I was scared. As I turned toward the window to leave I saw a journal on her bedside table. I grabbed it and jumped out the window and ran. I was frantic. I thought about getting in my car and leaving, but I couldn't. I sat and began reading her journal. I was stunned at what she had written. Vicky was in love with Mayor Stebe. Obsessed is more like it. Remember when Karen and I first met John asked me? Yes I said, she worked for the municipal clerk. Right he said. Well apparently Vicky was here visiting her brother, Chief Inspector Chan, and met Mayor Stebe, and fell head over heels for him right then and there. She thought Karen was sleeping with him. She moved here right by us to kill Karen. She poisoned her with some kind of herbs, That's why the doctors couldn't figure out what was wrong with her. After that she stayed and was working on Stebe. He was a pig though and was sleeping with other woman also. I read that she also poisoned another woman he was sleeping with. What about my Jane I asked him? She wrote, John continued, that the Mayor was in love with Jane and had seduced her with his power and authority. Then Jane didn't want any part of him. She knew it was a mistake. He blackmailed Jane to be with him whenever he wanted. Vicky wanted Jane out of the picture too. But because Jane wanted no part of mayor Stebe, Vicky didn't want her dead. So she was setting up Jane and me for killing you and Karen. Her plan was to have Jane and I look like lovers. Only you didn't die. Vicky was the one who hit you on the head. She hid you in her brothers mansion which was not being lived in at the time. She brought Jane to that house to talk about the Mayor. All Jane could say was that she wanted him dead. She was angry and left. It was not you she wanted dead said John, it was Mayor Stebe. Jane is innocent on that count. I think she loves you and tried her best to keep you from learning about her terrible mistake. She should of told me I said. I would have understood. Would you have, asked John rhetorically. That was as far as I read when the cops kicked in my door. Chan was with them. He grabbed the journal, and said you can join your brother. I thought he was going to kill me. I was cuffed and pushed roughly out the door. The ambulance was just leaving, and the county coroner's vehicle was at Vicky's house. Paul just looked at me as I was driven away. Chan was driving and I was in the backseat. We were alone. I really thought he was going to kill me. Suddenly Chan told me that you were alive and had suffered a heart attack. But why are you after me I asked him. I didn't do anything. You fool, he said. I own that house. I bought it for my sister, my sister Vicky. I had surveillance cameras set up there. Vicky was bi polar and I needed to be sure she was always ok. As soon as I got the call that someone was in the house, I got some underlings and came right over. You killed Vicky. It is on tape. It is almost over said the Inspector. I am going to charge you and your brother with the murder of your wife Karen, and my sister Vicky. But it was all Vicky I told him. Just read the journal. What journal he said. What journal? I stared at John in awe and disbelief. How can he get away with this I asked. He is Chief Inspector Daniel Chan, that's how said John. We need help. We need lawyers I said. No one can help us now said John. We are doomed. Stand up and put your hands together said the guard. John stood up. I still had so many questions I hoped he could answer. Where are you taking me asked John. You are being transferred to a different cell block, orders of the Inspector. I said goodbye to my brother. Possibly for the last time. Stay strong brother I said. Maybe we can figure a way out. I love you John I said. I love you to George. Try to keep yourself calm and relax. You need to rest and recuperate. I'll see ya sometime. I watched with tears in my eyes as they shoved John along down the narrow corridor, and out of the cell block. I was alone. The empty cell across from me just a crude memory of a bad turn of events in my life. I was laying on my bunk, when a trustee, ( a fellow inmate allowed to roam free for good behavior), came all the way down to my end of the block. How about a book to read he asked? He was pushing a small cart full of books. I wasn't much of a reader as I always found reading quite boring, but one book did catch my eye. The authors last name was Wright. I wondered if he was related to the floor guys I had met in the bar, who I thought were my proof of truth. I smiled to my self and said, yes, I'll try that one there. The Jaxon Grey Chronicles, Book one, "So Far Gone". That is a good choice said the trustee, many have read it in here. There is a second and a third one in the series, but we don't have them. One day when I get out, I'll find and read them. I asked him when he was supposed to be released? He glared at me and said, this block is a special block. We are in limbo. Some of us get out and others do not. We are not under the normal rules of law. I was a bit bewildered by what he said. What laws are we under I thought? When will I get to see a lawyer? What of my Jane. I spent the next two days reading. My mind was engulfed in the story. My head no longer hurt, nor did my ankle. And my whole being was calm. My heart was no longer racing. I was feeling so much better. The adventure of the book had me mesmerized. Nothing seemed to matter except the story I was reading. It was hard to even put it down to pee. When I finished the book and closed the cover, I was in total peace. I could smell dinner was on its way. The trustee slid my tray under and through the small opening at the bottom of the bars. Here you go pal, eat up. You need your strength. I heard you might be getting out of here. Getting out? What do you mean? How?Who? Why? With his back to me, he just walked away down the hall whistling a familiar tune. I knew the tune but for the life of me I couldn't place it. It came to me as I was eating. Auld lang syne, that was the tune. I thought of old acquaintances. But mostly I thought of Jane. I knew nothing of Jane. She hadn't come to see me, in fact no one came here at all. I could not see or hear any other inmates. Since John left, I had only seen the trustee. I wonder who he is and why is he in here. I will ask him at breakfast when he comes back. I looked in the empty cell across from me, laying in my bunk with a full belly and fell in to a deep slumber. Chapter nine. Another dream.
It was New Years eve. My wife and I were planning on going to her sisters house for dinner, and to party a bit to ring in the new year. It was getting very cold, and the temperature was dropping all day down into the single digits. The power was out due to the storm from the day before, and the only electric we had, was from the generator. Jane looked at me and said maybe we should stay home. If that generator goes out and it gets any colder, we could lose some of the animals in the barn. Our home had coal and wood for heat, but the barn had just an old electric heater that was set to come on at forty degrees. I was just enough to keep it from freezing. Still, at floor level along the walls, a bowl of water would freeze solid when it was as cold as it is now. I too, was a little worried about them. You have been excited about this night for two months I said. You should go. You haven't seen your sister in almost a year. I'll stay here and take care of everything. You go and have a great time. Just promise me you will bring me a big plate of leftovers. After a minute Jane agreed. I saw the excitement flow back into her eyes and her whole being. I continued the chores while she got ready. Her sister lived about three hours away, and further up into the mountains. I filled the tank on the Subaru. It was all wheel drive and great for navigating the mountain roads in winter. Jane was a good driver and the roads had been cleared and sanded well. I 'm ready Jane said. You're all gassed up. Wear your seat belt and drive safe. I want you to relax and have a great time. I'll see you next year I said with a smile. It's two pm now I said, I'll expect a call around five. You know I will she said. I gave Jane a big hug and a kiss. I watched as she drove down our long driveway toward the road. Ok back to work I thought. If I'm staying here, I still have chores to do. I filled the coal stove, brought in a few armloads of wood for the wood stove also. We use a coal stove in the basement, and a wood stove on the first floor. The coal burns twenty four seven all winter. We use the wood stove to regulate the temp in the main living area. After tending the stoves I went out to the barn to check the animals. The wind had picked up considerably and I thought about Jane. I do wish I had gone with her. We were so in love. Even after thirty two years together, we we were best friends. I puttered around the barn for quite a while, cleaning and tending to the animals. Feed, water, and the like. Everyone was doing fine. I headed back to the house. I was getting hungry, and it was dark now, and Jane should be calling me any time. I entered the house, and first thing was to light the lanterns. It was pitch black in there. Then, I put some cold ham and potatoes in the iron skillet and put it on the top of the wood stove. I put a few raw carrots in there two. I opened the flu and the small vent at the bottom to create a draft so the stove wood get good and hot. I refilled the coffee percolator with water and coffee and onto the stove it went. Thank god for the stoves. I went downstairs and got the water pot off the coal stove. We always keep it there to have some humidity in the house. The stoves tend to dry out the air something fierce. I took the water pot and filled the kitchen sink. I washed myself up good, and cleaned the few dishes from our lunch. As I sat down by the stove, my cell phone rang. Right on time I said as I answered. Jane laughed. I'm here safe and sound she said. Everyone says to tell you they love and miss you. I most of all she added. I love you too babe, have a good time. I will she said. Will you be alright she asked? I'll be fine I told her. I have dinner on the stove and everything is in good shape for the night. I'll see you tomorrow when you get home. Don't forget to call me when you leave. I won't said Jane. I love you. I love you to, give everyone my love and big hugs. I will she said. Ok babe. love you. I hung up and leaned toward the stove. The ham was just starting to sizzle. I could smell it and boy did it smell great. As I was eating, I could hear the coffee bubbling away. I used to tell the kids that the pop pop poppity pop sound is where they got the name pop pop. Most folks never heard a real percolator. I have used mine ever since I was a young man. I used to bring it on camping trips, now it sits atop the wood stove all winter long. Our main cook stove is electric. We used to have gas, but one winter the valve froze outside and wouldn't work. I switched over in the spring. It appears everything has it's flaws. The smell of coffee now filled the air around me. I finished eating, drank my coffee, and decided to hit the hay. I took the coffee pot off the stove and set it on the hearth. I grabbed the lantern and made my way upstairs and into the bedroom. No sooner than my boots dropped out of my hand and onto the floor, I heard the generator begin to sputter. Damn, I knew I forgot something. I forgot to gas up the generator. I'm glad it sputtered now, rather than when I was asleep and didn't hear it. After all, that was the whole reason I had to stay home alone, I laughed out loud. The animals. I put my boots back on and down the old creaking stairs I went. Put on my coat hat and gloves and opened the door. The temperature on the thermometer nailed to the porch said five below zero. And that is without the wind factor. I went to the shed and got a five gallon gas jug. I keep two filled so I don't have to hand pump it from the tank every time I need gas. I walked behind the barn to where the generator was. It stays outside under a lean to. The fumes would kill the animals and even people if it was inside. I filled the tank. It took the whole five gallons. I put the cap on and headed back to the shed. When I walked out from behind the barn, a wind gust caught me and nearly knocked me to the ground. The empty gas container flew out of my hand like someone pulled it. Man was it windy. I picked up the gas jug and put it in the shed. I walked back to the barn. The generator was running smoothly, and at full speed again. It would last all night now. I came to the front of the barn and opened the door. One last check on everyone. All was good. The animals were comfortable and set in for the night. I left the barn and closed the door. The latch was old and flimsy. I need to fix that one day I thought. With that I headed to the house. Sleep was looking really good now. I took about three steps and wham. I was knocked to the ground, and it felt like my leg was on fire. A huge gust of wind ripped a big limb off one of the big pines on the side of the barn. It was on my leg, and had me pinned to the ground in the snow. The limb had punctured my leg near the ankle and I was impaled. I was literally nailed to the ground. The pain was excruciating. There was however, very little blood. I could not move. I was stuck to the ground, on my back, in the worst pain I ever remember. I began to feel sick. I was nauseous. I was cold. Very cold. The wind was howling over my body and I all I felt was icy cold. I was gonna yell for help but to who, I was alone. My phone was on the arm of the chair where I ate by the warm stove. The tree limb was huge and to heavy for me to move. I tried over and over to lift it. It was big. Each time i tried i could feel it rip at my leg. I am gonna freeze to death I thought. I turned my head, threw up, and fell unconscious. George wake up. Wake up George. I could barely open my eyes. My leg was on fire again, the cold had gone. I was as warm as toast. My eyes opened more and it was bright, so bright. Where am I? Jane was kneeling next to me. She leaned close and kissed me. Help is coming she said. I began to feel some kind of weight on my entire body. What is going on I asked. You have been trapped under a tree limb since last night she said. I remember now I told her. I tried to sit up but could not the weight held me down, so too did the limb which had me pinned and impaled. My eyes now more clear and focused, and fully awake, I saw our two oldest sheep laying on me. Why didn't you just get me blankets I said. I just got home said Jane. It is three in the afternoon. Molly and Kendall were already laying on you when I got here. I called the ambulance right off and then woke you up. I looked toward the barn door. It was wide open. The flimsy latch was broken and there were two hoof print dents in the door. Sometime after I fell unconscious, our horse, Jacob, must have kicked open the door, and the girls came out and laid on me. Our animals saved my life. I began to cry. Jane went into the barn and told me that Jacobs stall door was smashed to bits. He was still in the stall. The sheep's stall door was also shattered she said. Jane looked at me and began to cry too. With both hands I began to rub Molly and Kendall. They pushed their heads back toward my hands and I just cried harder. Breakfast yelled the trustee. Wake up Roberts. My eyes opened into the dim lighted cell. There was my breakfast. Wait I said, but again the trustee was half way down the corridor, slowly whistling that tune. It was strange that my dream was of new years and he was whistling auld lang syne. Maybe that is why I dreamed it. I seemed to have the same pains in the dream that I have had all along since Vicky cracked me in the head with the flashlight. This dream seemed so real. I wish I could see my Jane again. She is my everything. She is all that I need. She is the air that I breathe. If only the trustee is right and I'm getting out. I will find my Jane. I will forgive her for her mistakes. After all, we all make them. I for sure have made my fair share. But who am I kidding, Chan will never let me go. I wonder where John is. I ate my breakfast. It seemed to be the tastiest food I have had yet in this place. And I thought my dark dungeon room was a prison., I chuckled at the thought. Here I am in jail. An innocent man. With only one desire left. My Jane. I would do anything to have the love of my life at my side with me. Holding each other tight and never letting go again. Chapter ten I was doing some push ups and sit ups in my cell, when I heard the trustee coming down the hall. I didn't smell food and it seemed kind of early for lunch. I pushed my head tight against the bars and looked up the corridor as far as I could. It was not the trustee. It was Mayor Stebe. He shuffled his feet along the hard concrete floor, and soon was in front of my cell. Mr Robert's I presume. Yes sir I said. I needed to be soft and kind. I could not let on that I knew anything about anything. Maybe he would help. I have have been asked by Inspector Chan to come and talk to you. He says that you have killed his sister, and your brothers wife. I know that you are innocent. I also know that Chan's sister was crazy. She had some kind of obsessive mental disorder. She was in an institution in Indiana before moving here near her brother. He is my friend said the Mayor. I cannot in good conscience support what he is doing to you though. You are innocent. I have spoken with your wife Jane. How is Jane I asked excitedly? Is she here? Can I see her please, may I talk to her. I'm sorry said Mayor Stebe. Jane is also being held captive. All she wants is to see you and hold you again. She is lost without you. Why is she being held captive I asked. Is it because she can expose your evilness I asked him? Evilness he said. That is an odd choice of words. Jane is being held captive by overwhelming love for you. After Vicky killed Karen, (yes I know the whole story), I approached Jane and told her I was going to set you up for murder if she didn't sleep with me. I tried to seduce her a few years ago but she said she would rather die, than betray your love. But why I asked? That's easy, she is beautiful. I first saw her and you walking in the park a few years ago. I wanted her. It is a shame that she wanted no part of me. So I had Chan get his sister released from the institution and moved here. I knew I could use her help. She was obsessed with me. I took pictures of you and your wife. I had them altered a bit, and let Vicky find them. She, as I knew she would, took them. So you and Jane, no said the Mayor abruptly, your miserable Jane would have no part of it. I used Vicky to set in motion my plan to have Jane for myself. I led Vicky on, and even slept with her and she played right into my hand. I never expected for her to die though. I spoke up. It's sounds to me I said, that you are the one obsessed. You, you have caused the pain for so many people. One day you will be held accountable. That's why I am here said Mr. Stebe. I have the power to release you and send you back. Back? I said. Back where? Why back to your life with Jane. I want that very much I said. There will be some conditions said Mr. Stebe. You must never ever speak of what has transpired here. You will forget everything and when you are joined with your Jane, never let her go. Funny thing though, I was calm and my heart was beating normal. Ever since I read that book I got from the trustee, my physical pains were gone, and my heart no longer racing or pumping hard. Mr. Stebe, if you release me, and I am not with my Jane, I will hunt you down and kill you. And what of my brother, I asked? You're brother died years ago. Don't you remember? The Mayor began walking back down the hall. He was whistling the same tune as the trustee. Wait I said, I want to be free. I want to be with my Jane. Please I hollered, I'll do anything. I'll keep quiet. As he reached the end of the corridor he began to sing. Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind. Then he faded away. I remained in my cell for days. No food, no water, the lights went out and I was in darkness. It was just as I started my adventure without the pain. I knew this time however, I was not going to escape. I would probably die here. I was at the point of giving up. Laying on my bunk hungry and in total blackness, never to see or hold my Jane again. If I could not have her, I want death. Life would not be right without her. I yawned and yawned again. Then dozed off. Good morning Mr. Roberts. Time to rise and shine. It was a female voice. I had not heard a woman's voice since I was came to Jail. It's a beautiful day she said. It's a great day to wake up and face the world she said. I could hear her walking around my cell. I tried to open my eyes but it was too bright. I was weak but managed to lift my hand over my eyes. I opened them a little. All I could see was white. What a drastic change I thought. Maybe I died and I'm in heaven. I mumbled, is this heaven? Immediately she was at my bedside. You're awake, how wonderful you're awake. Where am I, I asked? Is this heaven? No sir, you are in the hospital. Do you know your name she asked me? George Roberts I said. Very good Mr Robert's. Do you know what day it is. Yes I said, it is December 7th. Good enough she said laughing. My eyes had now adjusted to light. I was in the hospital. What happened to me? Why am I here? Well said the nurse, you were shoveling snow and suffered a heart attack. You hit your head on the concrete steps when you fell. You also broke your ankle. Your head injury put you into a coma, for almost a month. It was touch and go. We almost lost you a few times. You finally stabilized a few days ago. Today is new year's day. My Jane I cried, where is my Jane? Nurse Donna leaned her body to the left. There standing in the doorway was my Jane. Her hands were both on her face and she was crying. Jane I cried. In seconds she was at my bedside. Nurse Donna stood up and called for the doctors. Jane got right in the bed with me and we held each other tighter than ever. When she kissed me I cried. Oh I couldn't believe it. I had my Jane back. You better never leave me like that again cried Jane. I won't I promise I said and squeezed her tight. I promise Jane. George, and Jane Roberts, went on to live for several more years. They cared for all their animals and visited their children and relatives often. Georges brother John, had died years before his heart attack. I guess he just came to visit for a while. Anyway, they remained in their home in the mountains until the end. One afternoon Jane, Georges precious Jane, took a nap and passed in her sleep. George came in from tending the animals and found her. He cried. He called the paramedics and got in bed and cuddled his best friend. He sang her his song. You're my homesteading girl, you are all that I need, you're the air that I breathe, please don't take my life breath away. When the ambulance arrived they found Jane and George in each others arms for eternity. Georges heart had given out and he joined the love of his life forever together, never to part again. The End