Forgotten

Prologue:

Have you ever startled awake and felt like your chest was about to explode? Have you felt the fear, the panic … the whole terror of someone chasing you with intent to kill but when you woke — there was absolutely nothing there that should have made you feel that way?

I woke with that exact feeling. I was lying on the beach on a large beach towel. No one else was around and the sun was beginning to set. I felt strange. I was disoriented and the more I tried to focus, the more my head banged like a throbbing abscessed tooth. What the crap? I closed my eyes tightly and tried to think. Thinking hurt. Where am I? Who did I come to the beach with? What beach? Then I had this total panicked feeling … WHO AM I? I rolled over onto my hands and knees and waited until the world quit spinning and then I slowly got to my feet and looked around.

There was a large beach bag by the towel that I woke on. I honestly didn’t recognize it. Then again — I don’t know who I am or what I look like. I wonder if I look familiar when I look in a mirror. Sorry, I had to chuckle. This isn’t funny but how many people honestly don’t know what they look like? Most people can tell you each little flaw on their face, ears, body … I looked down. Nope. Not a bad body … it just doesn’t look familiar. I have a really dark tan but my ribs are sore and bruised. My legs … my thighs … are black and blue and scraped and I hurt in a way that is totally unfamiliar to me. Okay, that’s funny. Nothing about me or this place is ‘freaking familiar.’ The panic started to rise in my throat …

I heard someone on the beach then and saw a young couple coming in on a boat. When I looked to the left, I finally saw a small cabana and realized that it looked like one of those honeymoon cabanas offered in a magazine. Huh. I wonder when I was looking at a magazine … Oh man, this is just too weird.

Hello! The girl waved as she helped the guy tie off the boat to a small dock. They both jumped out, carrying a cooler and a basket and a beach bag similar to the one by the towel I woke up on. Do I know these people? They headed toward me and I … panicked. I ran behind a boulder on the outer edge of the beach that sat near the path that arched upward toward and parking lot and staggered to my knees. Lord, my head was banging. I sat with my back to the boulder and held my head, hoping that it would ease up so I could think.

Hey, are you okay honey? This girl with a gentle voice was kneeling in front of me. Justin! Her head is bleeding! Go get the first aid kit! I saw her shift and sit in front of me. What has happened to you, sweetie? Where is your car?

I … I don’t know. I whispered and stared into those incredible green eyes. "Who are you?’ The beautiful young blonde looked at me gently and sat down in front of me, far enough away that I didn’t feel as threatened. She seemed nice enough but I don’t think I know her. She doesn’t seem to know me. I honestly feel that my head is about to split into pieces. Did someone hit me? Was I in a car accident?

That one’s easy. She laughed. At least the first name is. My name is Jennifer and we are newlyweds on our honeymoon. Actually, we are headed back to school and this is the last break we have for a while. I guess we’re just delaying the reality part and stealing one more night on the beach. I’m still getting use to the Matthews part. We are Jennifer and Justin Matthews. She had such a gentle smile. She looked at me closer. I think we might need to get you to a hospital, honey, it looks like you hit your head pretty hard.

I have no idea why that made me panic—but it did. I jumped up and cried; No … don’t … he’ll kill me! I tried to run but then the world turned black and everything was gone …

Justin! She’s passed out. Jennifer yelled toward the cabana. Oh baby, what has happened to you? Jen rolled her over and brushed the sand out of the small girl’s face. She was afraid that this child had been abused and left on the beach. Who could do such a thing? How bad was this poor kid hurt?

CHAPTER ONE

Justin ran back to where the girls were and he found Jen kneeling over the small girl on the beach. What happened? He slid down beside her.

I think we better get her to the cabin, Justin, it looks like it is going to start raining any minute. Can you carry her while I get her things? She’s really frightened. I told her I thought we ought to take her to the hospital and she freaked out and took off running. Then she just went down. She’s hit her head hard, Justin.

I’ve got her. Get her things and we’ll get her inside. Justin leaned down and picked the unconscious girl up gently and carried her down to the beach while Jennifer got her towel and beach bag. Is there any identification in her bag?

We’ll check after we get out of this weather … Jen hurried to grab the girl’s bag and towel and ran behind him just as the sprinkles turned into an onslaught. They were all dripping by the time they got inside. Man, that storm came up fast! Jen ran and got towels. They wrapped the girl in a large towel and gently lay her on the couch. I’ll get an ice pack … Jennifer hurried into the kitchenette and made an ice pack out of a baggie and crushed ice and hurried back with it and a wash cloth to place against the back of her head.

Justin was a med student and a paramedic and Jen was a med student. He quickly checked the girl’s pupils and vital signs. On secondary exam, he found a lot of bruising and what could be a couple of broken ribs. He had no idea whether the girl had been sexually assaulted.

Jen, she should go to the hospital. He said quietly.

I know that! Jennifer huffed and turned to look in the kid’s bag. She freaked out, Justin, she’s terrified of something. I don’t think she just fell and caused herself all of these injuries. I think she’s running from someone.

Jen looked through the girl’s things. There was a wallet with cash credit cards that added up to thousands of dollars. Plus her wallet was full of hundred dollar bills. Looking further, she found cashier checks for large sums of money. What the heck? Justin, look at all of this!

The kid’s loaded. He whistled. That doesn’t make sense, Jen. She can’t be but fifteen or sixteen … maybe. How did she get all of these funds?

Jen sat back and opened an envelope. Oh, Justin!

Justin slid around to read what Jen had started to read. Aw, man … They read the letter together.

Kinsey:

I’m not trying to be cruel with this letter. You have to go. If you don’t leave here, Liam will kill you. He’s crazy. With Mama and Daddy gone, there is no one to take care of you. I cannot get away from Liam …at least I cannot at this time. He’s rich and he is powerful. Someday soon, I’ll figure out a way and find you. I know he beat you badly. I know that you were raped. Oh sister, I am so — so sorry! I love you, Kinsey. But Liam is the Chief of Police of this corrupt city and he has made people disappear before. I don’t want that to happen to you. I would rather you leave and live.

Liam beat you badly, Kins, but you cannot go to a doctor. I know that you were hit over the head and left for dead. I placed you on this towel because I saw a nice young couple that might be willing to take you away from here to safety. I hope you understand this … you have to leave Kinsey or Liam will find you and finish the job.

I got you a passport and a driver’s license through a friend in Virginia. I also have a false birth certificate. Your real name is Kinsey but your new last name is Nelson. Kins, you can’t try to get in touch with me. I will come to you. I borrowed some information from the couple in the cabana and I will try to contact them when it is safe.

I know this sounds cowardly. Lord, I’m sorry. All of the details about your birth, age, school …everything else but the last name and the names of our parents are correct. I even included some pictures for you. I feel awful. I will miss you something fierce. You have to run Kins…you have to leave this state and never come back until it is safe again.

If there is an emergency, you can email me: sistersact@gmail.com and we can communicate through there … but not for weeks, okay? Stay safe Kins!

I bought you a new Solace in Virginia and drove it down. It’s up in the parking lot with clothes and some of your personal stuff. It’s the best I can do for now. Go back to school and do me proud.

Love,

Kelsey

Justin and Jennifer stared at one another. Holy crap! Jen whispered. That’s a lot to leave on a little kid. Jen looked at Kinsey’s driver’s license and read the information. Kinsey Lee Nelson, age sixteen, five foot two inches and one hundred pounds. Blue eyes, blonde hair … there’s an address here … Justin, what are we going to do?

She doesn’t look sixteen. According to this birth date, Jen, she turned sixteen yesterday; June fifteenth. I’ll run up and see to her car. Hand me the keys and I’ll bring her things.

Jennifer reached for the car keys and hesitated. This is to a residence. She held up several keys. Do you think this address is to a real house?

I don’t know anything right now. Justin sighed. Let’s find out as much as we can before she wakes up. We’ll do whatever we can to help her, okay? He grinned at Jennifer. Yeah, I know, you take in strays. That’s part of the reason I love you so much. He bent over and kissed her forehead. I’ll hurry back. If she wakes up, just try to keep her calm. We’ll get through this. With that, her handsome husband turned for the door and she could hear him running toward the parking lot. Most men wouldn’t be so cooperative on their honeymoon. Jen knew that she was lucky. Compared to this poor kid, she was really lucky. How could someone just send their only sibling away … Kelsey … I wonder if they are twins? Man, there were too many questions and not enough answers. What were they suppose to do with Kinsey?

The address on Kinsey’s driver’s license said that she lived in a really nice neighborhood, not that far from the university in Norfolk that both Justin and she attended. Was that a just a fluke or was there something to it?

* * * * *

Justin jogged to the parking lot and sure enough, there was a little brand new yellow Solace sitting right next to his Jeep. It looked like a cute little girl car. Kinsey’s sister was thinking about her. He noticed a plastic Ziploc bag with a manila envelope tucked into his windshield wiper on the Jeep. Justin grabbed it and hopped into his Jeep to read it. He grabbed a towel from the back and tried to dry off before he opened the envelope.

To Justin and Jennifer Matthews:

I know that this is highly irregular. I am sorry. I was at work when I saw the two of you at the courthouse. I’m taking a big chance. I looked up all of your information on the internet, checked the college — and I am so sorry — but I had you investigated by a friend in Quantico. You are as perfect as my first impression but after my mistake with my husband, I didn’t trust my own instincts.

My name is Kelsey Anderson. I am married to the Chief of Police here in the Miami, Liam Anderson. He appears to be a nice man but looks are so deceiving. I am stuck with this man at the moment because he will kill me if I try to leave. I have his son, Carson, and he would make sure that he would keep our baby and erase my existence. For Carson’s sake, I cannot let this happen.

Our parents died in an auto accident on highway 101. I don’t think it was an accident. Liam has ways. Kinsey is beautiful and innocent. She’s a brilliant student, a great athlete and has a bubbly personality. She’s everything that I use to be. Liam has abused her and was trying to beat her into submission. When I came home from work and found her, I already had most of the plans in place to get her away. That was two days ago. I took Kinsey to a doctor friend and he says that she has a bad concussion and memory loss. He believes it is temporary. I have her medications in her cases. Please get her away from here. Liam will be back from a business trip tomorrow and when he finds out that she is missing, he’ll start looking for her.

Kinsey now owns a house in Norfolk. It is nice but not too fancy. I went out of my way to use as much of our parents’ money for her as possible. If you will see to her, you have a free place to stay until you graduate or even after that. I know that you are newlyweds. I promise you, Kinsey will never be a burden. She doesn’t know how to be. I am fearfully leaving her in your care so please…take care of my dear sister. She is all that I have left besides my baby. The deed and all of the other documents and things (including money) are in the safe in the office at the house. Kinsey’s brilliant, she’ll figure out the combination. Until I can contact you, keep her safe. You will be rewarded for your effort.

I will do my best to get help for you and the house in Norfolk has heavy security. I cannot stress this enough. Until Liam is permanently behind bars and they find the men that helped him end my parents’ lives, Kinsey will be in danger. Please take care of her.

Kelsey

Whoa … Justin sat back in the seat for a minute and tried to let the information sink in. This Liam Anderson sounded like a real jerk and if he was the one that abused the kid … Justin could feel the protectiveness build in his chest. How can any man take advantage of an innocent kid? She lost her parents and got thrown in with her sister and that sister is married to a Chief of Police monster? Justin had to try to sort out the pros and cons although he knew that it was senseless. No matter what the cons were, he was going to protect this kid. She wasn’t going to be a financial burden — that was for sure — so the least they could do would be to protect her. Jennifer and Justin were fourth year med students. They had worked hard and it was still going to be a struggle to finish and do their residency. It could still work. Jen could say that Kinsey was her cousin and came to live with them. It could work.

Justin got out of the Jeep after he put the envelope back into the waterproof covering. Then he went to get Kinsey’s things. She had a cosmetic case, a laptop, and two large pieces of luggage. Her trunk was filled to the maximum but he managed to carry it all in one load. By the time he got back to the cabana, he was soaked again and headed to the shower while Jen dried off Kinsey’s luggage and read the letter that he handed her.

He heard her slide into the shower and smiled down at her. That has got to be the coldest rain ever out there. He shivered and held her close. We have to care for her, Jen, the financial advantage is amazing but even if she had nothing, I couldn’t let this guy get to her again. She’s just a kid.

I was hoping you would say that. Jennifer grinned at him. I always wanted a little sister. Jen had been an only child. She needs us Justin. I don’t see where we have a choice. Our apartment is a little dinky thing but she has a house. I think as soon as she is able though, we all need to learn self-defense and how to use a weapon. We have to be able to protect her.

I agree. Justin shut off the water and handed her a towel after he climbed out. We can’t run around naked but I think we can adjust and act like a big brother and sister. He grinned at her when she laughed.

I don’t know that’s quite a sacrifice. She was giggling when she saw him blush. We’ll manage — but the bedroom is our place!

Oh yeah … I agree on that. They raced into the bedroom and pulled on clothes quickly to go and join Kinsey in the living area. Justin looked down at the kid. She was just sixteen and alone. Man, he was twenty-two and still felt like a kid sometimes. At sixteen, there was no way he could have made it on his own. We have to make this work for her Jen. He said as he walked into the kitchen to help her with dinner.

We will. She needs a dog. Jennifer was quickly putting the dinner on the stove as she thought. We need to get a big dog … to protect her when we can’t.

We don’t even know if she likes dogs. Justin laughed.

Well … I was thinking about a big Doberman or a German Sheppard … one that will protect her with his life. Jennifer didn’t want Kinsey to ever get attacked again. With that kind of danger out there, they could all use a big dog.

Let’s see how the house is and if there is a yard and … let’s see what Kinsey wants after she absorbs all of this information. He said soberly. This is going to be a total shock to her. Evidently, she can’t remember anything but to be afraid.

Jen looked up and saw Kinsey stirring on the couch. Take over for me here with dinner and I will get started with Kinsey. She hurried into the living room and sat on the coffee table in front of Kinsey.

Move slowly, Kinsey, you have a concussion. Jen said softly.

* * * * *

I woke inside a cute cabana. I’m lying on a couch and I can see that guy in the kitchen and the girl sitting in front of me. What did you call me?

We found a lot of information on you, Kinsey. Your name is Kinsey Nelson and you turned sixteen yesterday. Somehow, you have a driver’s license, passport and a birth certificate to prove that. There’s a lot of information here. I understand that you were attacked and sustained a concussion and suffer from amnesia. Do you remember anything? Jen asked gently. She could see the intelligent eyes trying to focus and understand.

My name is Kinsey Nelson? I asked. Somehow … that didn’t sound right. How did I end up on the beach? My head was banging again.

Listen, you have medication in your cosmetic bag. Why don’t we give you something for the headache, run you through a shower and get you comfortable and then we will answer all of your questions. Correction, we’ll answer everything that we have read from the information in your things and the letter that was left on our Jeep. Can you make it into the bathroom? Jen helped steady Kinsey as she slowly got to her feet. She swayed and sat back down. Okay, let me get your prescriptions, hold still for a few minutes. Jennifer hurried to get out the medication that was packed for the girl and Justin brought a glass of water. If I looked to the side too quickly it seemed like the room faded into wavy lines. I knew I just couldn’t take off running and try to get away by myself because I would end up on my face again.

I had no choice but to take the medication that they handed me but I read the prescription and it seemed legitimate. If my name is Kinsey Nelson … that still didn’t sound right. I took the pills and sat still while the room started to slow down on the spinning motion. When did I get hurt?

According to the letter, it was two days ago. Evidently, you hit your head again because there is a fresh bump and blood in your hair. I found where the stitches were from the last hit. You are pretty bruised up, Kinsey, how bad do you hurt? Justin said as he sat next to Jennifer. You can trust us, Kid, I promise. I‘m not a full fledge doctor but I am a paramedic and a fourth year med student. We want to help.

I looked at this guy and both of them seemed pretty honest and nice. Something said that I had to be careful … I don’t know why. Am I in danger? I whispered.

I think you’re safe for now. Jen’s right, Kinsey, you need to run through a shower and wash your hair. She has to get some of your clothes out of your suitcase. I’ll finish dinner while Jen makes sure you are okay. We’ll talk — but for now — just get cleaned up and dress in something warmer. You’re freezing. Justin grinned at me and I realized that under the blanket, I was wearing a skimpy bathing suit.

Kay. I whispered and got up a little easier and followed Jennifer into the bathroom. She turned on the water and adjusted it and then helped me inside. Oh man, the hot water felt like heaven. I enjoyed every minute even though washing my hair hurt. I took my time as I tried to clear my head. That seemed impossible. I couldn’t remember anything except from when I woke on the beach towel.

By the time I dried off, Jen knocked on the door. She peeked in, grinning. Wrap up in a towel and come into our bedroom. You can get dressed there where there is more room to move. She was right, the bathroom was pretty tight.

When I got into the bedroom, I saw the suitcases opened on the bed. Jennifer saw the question in my eyes. Yeah Kinsey, all of those suitcases are yours. Just dress in something casual for now. We’ll get dressed to go after dinner, okay?

There were two suitcases and a cosmetic bag on the bed. There was a laptop case and the beach bag that I hadn’t recognized on the beach. This all belongs to me?

Yes. Plus you have a new Solace up in the parking lot. She grinned. Man … I always wanted one of those. I haven’t seen it yet because Justin went to get your things. It’s storming outside.

What is a Solace? I asked. What was she talking about?

It is a little sports car. Sorry, you really don’t remember anything do you? She asked. Don’t worry about it for now. You have a sister, Kinsey. Her name is Kelsey and evidently she is older than you. She’s left you enough to take care of you and has asked us to stay with you and basically make sure that you are okay. I’ll show you all of the letters after you get dressed.

I pulled out underwear and sleep shorts and a t-shirt and hurried to put them on. Jen tried to brush my hair out and, man, that hurt. Sorry, if we don’t get these tangles out, it’s going to hurt worse … there you go, I’ll pull it back in a clip until it dries, okay? I nodded and she expertly finished my hair with a swift motion. I really took a look at the girl that was standing behind me. She had blonde hair about the same length as mine with big emerald green eyes. She had long dark eyelashes and a beautifully shaped face. Jen was probably about three inches taller than me, and twenty pounds heavier — maybe more — but she was built really nice. She had a nice tan and a cheerful expression. Nothing seemed to bother this lady. If someone intruded on my honeymoon, would I be so nice?

You are newlyweds. I said softly.

Yes, we are. As soon as the semester was finished, we flew home and got hitched. We’ve known each other for years but this past year — things definitely changed. The chuckle and dancing eyes kind of said the rest.

I’m intruding … this is your honeymoon. I whispered.

This is the end of our honeymoon, Kinsey. We were headed back tomorrow anyway. You are not intruding. Jen sighed. We have the rest of our lives together if we are lucky. You need help now. Don’t feel bad about this … your sister checked us out and has made provisions for all of us to live a lot better than we would have been. Justin didn’t care … he said that he would have taken care of you anyway. You are in danger here and we have to leave. Here is the letter your sister left you in the beach bag and this is the letter that she left us with our Jeep. Read those and look through your things and then come out and we’ll talk about it, okay? Jen wrapped her arms around me like I imagine a sister would. Kinsey, you have been hurt and your sister is very worried about you. We will do our best to never let anyone hurt you again. I’ll leave you alone for a while and help Justin finish dinner. She squeezed my shoulders and turned and walked out shutting the door quietly behind her.

I looked through all of the things that were supposed to be mine. I had a lot of money. Cash credit cards, cashier’s checks and actual cash. I looked at my driver’s license and compared it to my reflection. I could have looked worse, I guess. I wasn’t near as mature looking as Jennifer. I looked like a kid with a halfway decent body. I was thin and darkly tanned, blue eyes, high cheekbones and dimples … straight teeth … yeah … it could be worse. I sighed and went over to look through all of my things. There was a large photo album and in the front was a picture of a little girl with a little baby in her arms. The caption on the bottom said; ‘You came into my life when I was six years old.’ The little girl looked really proud of me. The pictures that unfolded page after page were different steps of my life and of Kelsey’s life. It was like a picture book stating the obvious; ‘This is your life.’

Toward the end, the pictures changed — Kelsey’s wedding, her baby’s birth and a dark mysterious-looking man with a brooding expression. He was in more and more of the pictures. Kelsey married this man. There were newspaper clipping of the accident and our parents’ obituaries. She had also included photos of our parents and information about them. I have a sister but nothing else … and now … I guess she is gone also. From the pictures, I must be smart and a star athlete … I feel like an awkward idiot right now … maybe I’m not like that anymore.

I read the letters that Jennifer left with me. Yes, it sounded like I was in danger but it sounded like Kelsey and little Carson were in more danger. This Liam guy sounded like a real monster. Involuntarily, I looked down. Kelsey said that I had been raped. That must be all of the bruising and soreness down there. Two days ago? I had to have been a virgin. Okay, now that pisses me off.

Jennifer stepped inside the room and studied my face. You look like you are about to blow a gasket, Kinsey, has the headache subsided yet?

I wiped the stupid tears away and looked at the bed. I’m okay.

No, you are not okay. Do you want to talk about it? Jen sat down in front of me on a stool. We can’t help what happened, honey, we can only protect you from now on. When we get back to Norfolk, I’ll take you to my doctor. We’ll make sure you are okay. She studied my face. You were innocent, weren’t you?

You mean — was I a virgin? Evidently … I cried. Now, I’m … not.

Honey, you have been violated. It isn’t supposed to be like that. Jen pulled me close and let me cry. You’ll get through this. I know it doesn’t sound like it now, but you will and you will be stronger from it.

Why would you want me? I sobbed. I was screwed up — a mess — these guys were newlyweds. I needed to go off by myself.

Kinsey, I have always wanted a sister. I’m an only child and I grew up with imaginary friends and pets. Justin has brothers and he’s the oldest. Your sister has offered us security for taking care of you. That helps … I’m not going to lie about it. But Kinsey, we want to help you through this. You have several years left to be a teenager and in high school and … to be carefree. We want to try to give you that. I was sheltered and cared for and I want to give you that security. We’d like to be your family if you will let us.

Justin came in and knelt in front of me. We do want you, kid, but trust me — I can be a mean big brother when other guys come around. You are kind of cute for a kid, so I may have to beat the guys away for a while. If you can live with that, we want to do this for you. I’ve always wanted a little sister too. Brothers can be such a pain. He was grinning. Now, let’s eat before it gets cold.

* * * * *

After dinner we went through everything. Jen called ahead for a stop halfway back to Norfolk. She ordered a two-room suite near a pool. The following day, if we left early enough, we would be able to find the house and start settling in. We all discussed it and decided that Jen would cut my hair and ride with me in the car while Justin followed in the Jeep. Jen got the chair and the scissors out and I just stared at her.

Have you always had long hair? Jen asked softly.

I have no idea. I admitted. It will grow back. I have to look different while they are looking for me though. If the man is as good as they say he is I probably will have to put some color in it as well. I frowned. Do you think I could get use to wearing green contact … that might throw them off some?

Maybe, we’re all new at this. We’ll cut your hair and you can wear one of my white ball caps. This is a new vehicle and it’s registered in Norfolk … we have a destination … Oh, man … I have no idea. Jen finally admitted. Justin while I cut Kinsey’s hair, look up everything you know about this Liam Anderson and Kinsey’s family.

Kinsey, we didn’t bring a laptop, can I use yours? Justin asked.

Sure. It’s still on the bed. I watched him as he walked away. What do you guys do?

We are both med students. We are almost through it … we finally made it to our fourth year. We are from El Paso, Texas and both won scholarships. It’s really pretty nice and it’s different. We had never been away from home so it’s been nice to get away and grow up some. Jen hesitated. This is going to work, Kinsey, I’m not sure how yet, but it’s going to work.

I flinched when she cut off the length of hair and it fell to the floor. She slowly worked at cutting the rest of it and was smiling as she was getting close to finishing it. You have natural curl, Kinsey. This is going to be really cute on you.

Justin turned from the laptop and stood up and walked around. Good job! She doesn’t even look like the same kid. He was grinning. You look about twelve.

She does not! Jen laughed. I have worked as a beautician to help put us through school. Scholarships do not cover everything. She explained. If we have to put color on it, we will. You are right at that age that you will change pretty quickly. The whole turn from being a kid into being a woman thing … if we can cover with a haircut and different clothes we will. Your hair color is really too nice to mess with. She sighed. Okay, let’s go look and see what you think.

We headed into the bedroom and I looked in the mirror to see another stranger. Wow … that does make a difference. I admitted. Hey, I like it. You’re really good at this.

Jennifer was actually blushing. I try … there are a lot of the kids at school that come to me to get haircuts and I have gotten better over time. That summer in beauty school helped. Are you sure you like it?

Yep … It’s cool. Now, what do we do? We headed back into the living room to see Justin scowling at the computer. What’s wrong?

We need to get out of here. Jen are you too tired to drive? We both stared at him. Look, this guy is bad news. I don’t know how he became Chief, he has some bad charges against him and two of his partners ended up dead. Your sister is right, we need to leave. Jennifer had never seen Justin this nervous. Jen’s right, we need a couple of Dobermans and self defense classes and gun classes …

Justin, you’re scaring us! Jen cried.

I meant to get your attention, Jen. If you can drive, we need to get going. He looked at her seriously.

If he is that bad, maybe I should go alone, Justin. I don’t want you two in danger. I whispered. I know that I had to be shaking because my insides felt like they were about to shatter.

Kinsey, there is no way that we will do that! I wouldn’t leave you now for anything. We just need to move. This explains her sister’s fear and her attitude. She’s right to get you away from here. Justin hurried into the other room and started cleaning out the room and packing things so we hurried to help.

Within a half hour, we were ready to leave. Justin locked the door behind him after leaving the key on the table and they headed up the path. As soon as he loaded the car and the Jeep, Jen climbed in the driver’s seat while I stared at the car. She was right. This thing was so nice! My sister must love me … no one gives a kid a car like this!

Hey, I get to drive this too, right? I grinned.

It’s your car, Kinsey, of course you do — bum! Jen laughed. But right now you have a messed up head and you are on pain meds. Let’s see how you feel in the morning. Do you remember how to drive? She grinned.

No, but I’m sure it will come to me! I hurried around to get in the passenger seat and fastened the seat belt. Jen pulled out of the lot with Justin following and we were soon on the highway heading east following the coastline.

With any luck, we would be long gone before my brother in law figured out I was missing …

CHAPTER TWO

Kelsey’s cell phone rang and she pulled it out of her pocket. This one was a throw away phone that Sam had recommended. He would have one delivered to her personally each week and she was directed to destroy the old one. He would let her know when Kinsey was safe.

Hello? She answered quietly.

Hey kid, how’s it going? Sam Cain asked as he sat by the pool.

Oh, man, Sam. I’m a nervous wreck. Kelsey admitted. Have you found out anything?

Well, evidently your letter worked and I have a feeling the kids looked up Liam because they were on the highway by ten o’clock last night. They’re making good time and the college kids are with Kinsey. I have a tracer on both vehicles. I tried to focus in on satellite when they stopped for gas in Jacksonville. Both girls have blonde hair, I forgot about that. I think they cut Kinsey’s hair or she has it up in a ball cap. They’ve made it through several tolls and no one is following them. Has Liam returned home yet? Sam was on medical leave from the Virginia office of the Bureau. He was recuperating from a gunshot wound. Kelsey needed to get Kinsey away and he volunteered to shadow them and make sure that they were safe. He had always loved and looked out for the girls. When their father retired from the Miami office, Sam transferred to Virginia. He had to agree with Kelsey, the so-called accident didn’t make sense. His next step was to get Kelsey and Carson out of Miami. The best way to do that was to eliminate Liam. Kelsey wouldn’t agree to that.

Does she look okay? Kelsey said as she sat down at the café table and pulled Carson out of the stroller.

It’s a satellite image, honey, I can’t tell. We checked these kids out pretty thoroughly. I think she’ll be okay and I’ll be waiting on them when she gets here. Sam sighed.

What are we getting them into Sam? Kelsey worried.

A free ride through residency, a nice home, no money worries … I’ll do my best to protect all three of them. In fact, I think I’ll introduce myself as Uncle Sam to them … what do you think? He was grinning as he saw the puppy bound across the lawn after a bird. I bought her a dog.

What? Kelsey wondered if Sam had lost it.

Yep … She’s in training right now but the little Doberman klutz is chasing a bird across the lawn right now. She’s out of good stock and the trainer says she’ll be a good one. I thought it might help Kelsey to acclimate.

Sure you did! Kelsey laughed. You always wanted a dog so now you have a yard to keep one in. Tell the truth.

Okay … there is that, I guess. She’ll love it. Sam laughed. I’ll watch over them, Kelsey. Continue your classes and make sure you and that baby are protected.

I’m trying Sam. Liam should be home this afternoon. It was just luck that his flight was postponed. It gives Kinsey more of a chance to get away. Kelsey admitted.

Is Vera there? He demanded.

Yes, she’s staying for the week. I don’t think he can make her leave when it’s known that Kinsey is missing. Kelsey hesitated. Sam, I am doing the right thing aren’t I?

The only thing wrong is that you should leave as well. You were right to get Kinsey out of there. I’ll kill the son of a bitch if I can get him alone without witnesses. This was his goddaughter and that moron hurt her. He would pay for that.

Sam …

Yeah, I know. He’s a dead man walking right now, Kelsey. Nothing better happen to you or that boy or I won’t hold back. You’ll just have to be mad at me. Sam growled.

I don’t know what we would do without you. Kelsey admitted. Well, I had better get back and be ready for Liam when he gets home.

Take care. Sam hung up and watched the satellite a little longer before he whistled for the pup. It was time for her training lesson …

* * * * *

Liam paced in front of the check-in desk. This was ridiculous. He should have already been home. He marched over to the attendant. How much longer is this going to take, woman? Some of us have jobs to get back to!

They are just clearing the plane now, Sir. Please have a seat and we will call as soon as they tell us to load. She was a little mouse of a girl. Cowering in the corner, holding the phone in her hand — like that would help her!

Liam rolled his eyes and walked away, punching his cell phone.

Hello?

Vera, where is Kelsey? He demanded.

Kelsey took Carson for a walk, Liam. It is such a beautiful day … Vera hated talking to this man. He made her nervous.

Where’s Kinsey? He demanded.

She’s still in her room, Liam, it is Saturday. Vera huffed.

Tell her to pick up the phone! He yelled.

I will not! She has rights too, Liam, and she does not answer to you! Vera yelled right back. She is just a child and she needs her space as well.

How long are you going to be there? He asked.

As long as it takes, Liam … She replied sarcastically.

We’ll just see about that! Liam cut off the connection swearing as Vera sat back and chuckled. She hated the man with a passion.

Vera walked up the steps and knocked on Kinsey’s door. It was time for her to get up … she just wasn’t going to make her talk to Liam. Kinsey, honey, wake up. Kelsey and Carson will be back in a few minutes and I was about to fix brunch … Kinsey? She opened the door slowly and gasped. The room had been tossed. Kinsey always kept her room nice and neat. What was this? Vera hurried into the bathroom … she saw the blood on the floor and in the shower. Oh, no! KINSEY!

* * * * *

Kelsey heard Vera as soon as she walked in the door and pulled Carson out of his stroller and ran up the stairs. Vera, what is it? She walked in the room and looked probably just as shocked as she had when she first saw it. KINSEY? Where are you?

Vera walked out of the bathroom, pale and shaken. Oh, Kelsey, you have to call the police, something awful has happened to your sister … our baby …

Kelsey hurried into the bathroom and looked around. Liam’s time had run out. Now, she was going to bring the wrath of God down on his head. Didn’t he say that Kinsey had called yesterday to stay one more day with her girlfriend? She asked her shocked aunt.

Yes … and he just called a little while ago and asked me to go wake her up. I wouldn’t do it for him but then I thought she had to have slept enough — no matter what time she got in. Her car is in the driveway. When did she get in?

I didn’t hear the car. Kelsey turned to grab her personal cell phone. She had ditched the throw away phone, knowing that this was about to go down. She was hoping that her acting classes paid off because the drama was about to begin.

* * * * *

911, Miami Dade, please state your emergency. The dispatcher said quickly.

I have to report that my sister is missing. Her room has been destroyed and there is blood in the bathroom both on the floor and in the shower. Something awful has happened. This is Kelsey Anderson, the Chief’s wife … please dispatch … Kelsey rattled off the address and the particulars to the dispatcher and because of the man that she was married to … she could hear the sound of sirens in the distance already.

They both headed downstairs. Kelsey handed the baby to Vera and ran to look in Kinsey’s Mustang convertible. She had one of the agents bring the car back during the night. The young lady looked an awful lot like her sister. The only fingerprint in the car was Kinsey’s and Liam’s.

The patrol cars came sliding into the drive and headed up toward the house. Mrs. Anderson, have you heard from her?

Kelsey shook her head sadly and answered the cell phone she had left on the foyer table that Vera came out and handed her. It is Liam, Kelsey. She whispered.

Liam! Where are you? Where is Kinsey? What have you done with my sister? She hit the intercom so the others could hear his response.

What do you mean? He demanded.

She isn’t in her room. The room is trashed and there is blood all over her bathroom. I thought you said you talked to her yesterday! She sobbed.

I did talk to her. She was in her car damn it, is her car there? He yelled.

Yes, it is here and the hood is cold. It’s been here a while Liam. Where was she when you talked to her? Kelsey was trying hard to dig the man’s grave.

What are you saying Kelsey? Liam growled.

Liam, she said you hurt her. What did she mean? Kelsey cried.

What? That little … hey … you have this on intercom! He yelled.

It was all that she could do to hold her expression when she handed the cop the phone. Chief, this is Deputy Jones. Yes. They are checking the room now, Sir. Where are you Chief? Okay. Yes sir. He hung up and turned to Kelsey. The Chief was boarding the plane and he should be flying into Miami in about three hours. Kelsey nodded and went to pick up the baby.

I’m going to take Carson to the kitchen. That’s where we will be. Can I call her friends and see if they have heard from her? She asked.

Yes, please do and keep track of the names and answers for me. That will help a lot. He was already headed into the house. Kelsey walked around to the garage and then through the cabana, she knew that Kinsey wasn’t there but she was going to look like a scared sister trying to find her baby sister.

Almost on cue, two agents pulled up and headed up the drive as Kelsey, Vera and Carson entered the kitchen. One of the cops stopped them on the drive. When they flashed their badges, the young cop backed up and pulled out his radio. Jones, you might want to get out here …

Why, I’m trying to work here … fine … what’s going on? Jones huffed as he headed back down the stairs.

Um … We have two FBI agents out here requesting entrance. It is Calhoun and Clay, Sir. They had the Chief under surveillance. He stuttered while the agents stood there grinning at him like fools. Liza Calhoun and Jim Clay both had been waiting and watching. The accident with one of their own had never settled right. They were watching the house and hopefully had enough to help bury Liam Anderson once and for all.

Jones hurried out and met the agents. How did you hear about this so fast? He demanded before he even offered a hello.

We have radios, man. You know we’ve been watching Liam. Jim grinned. Sides, we promised to look out for the girls and now one of them happens to be in trouble. We look out for our own, buddy, just like you guys do.

Jones looked at the perfectly dressed man. He was big enough to be a bouncer and not an inch of fat on him … he was a scary six five and his partner, Calhoun was just the opposite. Where he was big and dark, she was petite and pale.

Fine, we don’t know much yet and Liam is just flying out of Atlanta. He’s been in a conference for a few days. Jones said as he turned to go back inside.

Really … Planes fly both ways buddy, remember? Liza said softly.

Liam loves that kid, he wouldn’t hurt her. Jones huffed as he cleared the stairs two at a time. They were right on his heels. Man, they weren’t even breathing hard. The crime scene team pulled in and started to work while the others looked on. Jones had no idea why these guys had Liam on this but it didn’t sound good. The man sounded livid on the phone but he wasn’t going to give them anything else to throw at him. This case was already a nightmare and it just began …

* * * * *

By the time Liam got home it was almost dark. He had been taken in to the station as soon as his plane landed. He was out for now but there was a car at the curb and one in the driveway. One belonged to Miami Dade and the other one belonged to the family’s FBI friends. Liam was furious.

He ran up the steps and looked at the police tape in front of Kinsey’s suite of rooms. The little bitch … He told her to clean the mess up and now it looked like he was in a world of hurt. If they found her before he did, she would have him hung and castrated. He was so stupid. He knew better. Kids these days run around in skimpy bathing suits swishing their butts, tempting fate and when it happened they were so innocent. Yeah right. Okay, so she was … but he didn’t know. He had no idea that she had been a virgin. He figured that she would like it … yeah right. Kelsey suspected him … hell … she called the cops on him, didn’t she? What was she thinking? Did she think he caused all of this? Yeah, of course she did. He could hear it in her voice.

He slammed into the room and headed to the bathroom and got a shower. Then he ran back downstairs in swim trunks. He shouldn’t have ever agreed to have Kinsey stay here. They could have sent her off to a private school. Now, everything he had was in trouble. He ran into the kitchen and then heard them out at the pool. He slammed his way out of the back door and took some satisfaction in Kelsey jumping. He went to the diving board and dove in and began his swim. He had to think. He could feel her eyes on him … accusing and watching his every stroke.

He finally pulled himself up to the side. He heard his son squeal and he turned and smiled. Hey little man, how are you? Carson was a miracle. In spite of his wife’s blonde beauty, Carson looked like him. He had her blue eyes but other than that, he was his own duplicate. His nine month old son toddled toward him grinning, saying; ‘da, da, da …’ with outstretched arms. He couldn’t lose this over a teenage brat. He scooped his boy in his arms and slid in the pool with him again. It was amazing. Kelsey had already taught the little guy to swim. He wasn’t a bit afraid of the water. He kicked like a frog and giggled.

He just ate, Liam, be careful. Kelsey said quietly. He looked up to see her standing on the edge waiting for the baby. Come here buddy … And there he went, lunging for his mother and not looking back. What did he expect? He had to work all the time and Kelsey seem to always have extra time to spend with their son …

What is going on Liam? Kelsey threw the comment over her shoulder as she headed to the lounger. I have called all of Kinsey’s friends and none of them have heard from her.

Hey, I only know what she told me. I thought she was an honest kid. Evidently, she lies like all of the rest of them. Yes, he saw the spark in her eyes. She wasn’t buying it. Kinsey was honest to a fault. It could happen though, right?

Kelsey stared at him for a moment. If you had an argument, I would understand. This was something more. There is blood all over her bathroom, Liam, what happened to my sister? Her voice was getting louder. He looked up to see Vera leading Calhoun and Clay into the pool area. Damn, can’t a man have any peace?

My statement is at the precinct. I don’t know why you are here but I would like you to leave now. We are trying to find my sister in law. He growled as he got out and grabbed a towel. Liam was thirty-two years old, tall, well built and handsome. He was pretty well off before he married Kelsey. These people didn’t have the right to barge into his home.

We are here to set up the phones and wait for a ransom demand, Mr. Anderson. Liza said calmly.

I am the Chief of Police. We can handle our own problems. He growled as he walked to the bar to make himself a drink. How do you know that this is a kidnapping? Kelsey, have you gotten a phone call?

Not exactly … Kelsey said. Kelsey pulled out the letter that she had Kinsey write before she left her on the beach and handed it to Agent Clay.

What is that? Liam demanded as he walked over. Clay held up his hand and raised an eyebrow, daring Liam to try to take the letter.

It’s a letter that I found in Kinsey’s car, Liam. I waited for you to explain what happened but you wouldn’t. When I looked through Kinsey’s car again, I found this letter. You’re lucky that I didn’t find it before they left here. Kelsey stared at her husband. Yes, she had every intention of setting the man up to pay for what he did.

Clay and Calhoun sat at the table to read the letter after they encased it in plastic to preserve the evidence.

It read:

Kelsey;

If you have found this then I have found a way to get far away from here. I had to leave. I am so sorry. Liam attacked me and he … raped me … I was afraid and I can’t live here anymore. I know you have Carson and you can’t leave. That’s okay. I’m tough. I’ll make it. I know he’s the Chief of Police and if I tried to prove what he did … well … yeah right … like that would ever happen. He may have hurt me once, but he won’t ever get another chance. As long as you stay with Liam, I have to be far away. You love him and I understand that. I know if I killed him, I would spend the rest of my life behind bars and hurt you and Carson in the process. He can get by with murder. I can’t. He killed Mom and Dad. We both know it but we can’t prove it.

I don’t want to hurt you. I will miss you and think of you and Carson every day. I don’t know what else to do but to run. I can make it, Kelsey, you know I can. Try not to worry and take care of yourself and my nephew.

Love, Kinsey

Jim Clay played the part perfectly. He grabbed Liam and dragged him across the table and threw him into the pool. You son of a bitch!

Liza grabbed Jim and held him back. Don’t Jim, he isn’t worth it. We have to find Kinsey and see how badly she was hurt.

Liam looked at the bear of a man and treaded water as he glared at him. She’s lying! He yelled. I wasn’t even here, you moron!

I am a moron? Come on out of there little man, I’ll break your dick off! Clay growled at him with his fists doubled at his side.

Kelsey put a hand on his shoulder. That won’t help. Call the Miami Dade deputy and give him this letter.

At that time Jones stepped out on the patio. I heard … can I see the letter? He looked at his boss and at the agents. It looked like Agent Clay was going to blow a gasket. Sit down, Clay. Chief, come on out of there. Jones read the letter over twice. Where and when did you find this? He asked them.

I found it after you guys left. I was trying to think of where Kinsey would leave us a message if something was wrong. You have to understand, Kinsey is an A student and one of the athletic department’s finest. She wouldn’t just go off on her own. We are really close. I had to find her … Kelsey took a deep breath. She hid her wallet under her seat and the letter was folded inside it.

She didn’t take her car or her wallet? Jones looked from Kelsey to Liam and back to the agents. Liam, get dressed. I need to take you back in.

This is bull! Liam yelled but came out of the pool willingly. It sounded better than Clay dragging him out which he looked ready to do just that. Liam stomped into the house and ran upstairs to get dressed again.

Clay, this is a criminal matter. I don’t know what exactly happened but I’m not sure that you have jurisdiction here. Jones said.

I’m visiting a friend then. Jim said. "He hurt that girl, Jones, we both know it. We won’t let him do it again. She just turned sixteen and she thinks she’s running for her life. Hell, she probably is unless you keep that man in jail. We have reopened the ‘accident’ that happened to their