209 Bundle of Joy
Bundle of Joy
By Ruth Macklin
Published by Ruth Macklin at Smashwords
Copyright 2011 Ruth Macklin
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Chapter One
Stephanus Rickley had been away from his family home for many years. He had been estranged from his family because he had a fierce argument with his father. His father had wanted Stephanus to join him in the family business as soon as he had finished college.
Stephanus rushed home from college to tell him his father his surprise. He was happy he had achieved the career he had worked years to have.
‘Congratulate me,' said a happy Stephanus as he walked into his father's study. 'I have been accepted to work for Kingsley Shipping Company They came to the college to interview me.’
‘No!'His father yelled as he stood knocking over his chair. 'No you won't! You will take your rightful place in the family business. It's your duty!’
‘I have accepted the position. I told Simon Kingsley I would be able to start next week.' Stephanus was shocked by the stand his father had taken.
‘You will not be taking it. Your place is with your family. You will marry Stella Avery in a few weeks and begin a family.’
‘No way! I'll never marry her. She's your choice so you can marry her. If I do marry the woman will be of my choice,' Stephanus shouted at his father. 'No way will I follow your plans for me.’
‘You will do as you're told. Or you're out of the family. I'll disown you.’
‘That'll suit me. I won't have you looking over my shoulder dictating to me.' Stephanus turned to walk to the door. His happiness torn away because he wanted to stand on his own feet. Not thrown into a job he did not want because he was family.
‘If you walk out the door we're finished. This will no longer be your home.’
Stephanus spun round to face his father. 'That your final decision?’
‘Yes. You walk out now you'll not be welcome in this house. I will not have a son.' His stubbornness would not let him back down, or comprise.
‘I understand. I'll pack my bags. Be out of here within an hour. Hope you will be happy with your decision. Good-bye Father.' Stephanus walked out of the study closing the door behind him. Closing the door on his father's dictation. To step forward to a new life. To be allowed to make his own way whether he prospered, or failed.
His father collapsed on to the seat. 'That went well. He won't leave his home. He'll cool down and stay.’
Just over an hour later he heard heavy footsteps coming down the stairs. Waited for his son to come knocking on the study door. But the waited for knock never came.
‘Charles,' Stephanus called to the man servant who had been with the family for years. 'I've left a couple of trunks in my room. Someone will come by in a few day to collect them when I know where I'll be staying.’
‘When will you be returning?' asked Charles.
‘Never. This is good-bye Charles. I will miss you. You have always been there for me. Take care, my friend.' Stephanus shook hands with his friend then walked away with a heavy heart.
Opening the door Stephanus lugged his luggage on the porch before closing the door of his home for the final time. Stephanus slammed the door to let his father know he had left the house.
‘Your meal is ready, Sir.' Charles came into the study to announce the meal.
‘Will Stephanus be here?' Hope shone from his tired eyes. He had been hoping he could ease back on his work with his son there to help run the family company.
‘No, Sir. Master Stephanus left.’
‘Gone out for the night?' Hope still with him until he looked at Charles' face.
‘No, Sir. He left with some luggage. Said he would not be returning. Someone will come to collect his luggage.’
‘My son will come home once he cools off.’
‘Don't think so, Sir.’
‘He will return. He has to return.’
‘Not this time, Sir. He has closed the door on his life here. He has set out on a new adventure.’
‘I know my son. He will come home.' Stephanus' father was sure his son would return. That he would come crawling back when he could not make a life of his own. Would return when his money run out and he needed help.
But his father was wrong. Stephanus did not return home. He built a new life for himself. Worked hard for Simon Kingsley and rose as far as he could with the company. Saved his money to start a company of his own.
Stephanus' love for sailing had led him to the Greek Islands where he bought an ailing cruise business which had grown to a larger fleet since his take over. Now he had cruise ships sailing the world. Had a trusted manager who could take over the running of the company when Stephanus was needed else where.
Even though Stephanus traveled to many different parts of the world until he had bought his own business, his father kept track of what Stephanus was doing. He waited for his son to crash. Waited for him to fail so his son would have to return home. But his son didn't fail. Stephanus grew from strength to strength. Building his own fortune.
Unbeknown to Stephanus his father was very proud of what he had achieved but was sad and lonely. His son had not once returned home. His father was too stubborn to bend and admit he had been wrong. Not once had he even tried to contact Stephanus.
His father was stubborn to the very end. No way would he let anyone tell his son he was sick. Stephanus had not heard from his father until the message finally reached his company office.
Brian Dunn, Stephanus' manager, was in the office when the call came through.
‘Rickley Cruises. Brian Dunn speaking. How may I help you?’
‘Thomas Kendrick. I've trying to reach Stephanus Rickley. It's very important I reach him.’
‘Stephanus is out on a cruise tour. He won't be back for a couple of days. I can get a message to him if the message is very important.’
‘I'm Mister Rickley seniors lawyer. Can you tell Stephanus his father passed away last night. A massive heart attack the doctor told me. The funeral will be on Thursday at two if Stephanus can make here in time.' Thomas didn't sound hopeful of Stephanus arriving in time to farewell his father.
‘I'll make sure Stephanus receives the message. Thanks for calling to tell Stephanus of his father's passing.’
Brian set about making all the travel arrangements for Stephanus to be home for his father's funeral. While he was busy Brian had the secretary find an available captain to take over the cruise ship.
Someone else was sent to his home to collect a suitcase of clothes for the trip. The helicopter had been readied waiting to take off once everyone had arrived.
Brian and the replacement captain boarded the helicopter with the luggage to head out to sea to find the cruise ship.
The passengers were a buzz with excitement as the helicopter hovered above their ship. Stephanus stopped the ship to come on deck to find out why the company helicopter had come in search of the cruise ship.
Stephanus watched in astonishment as a person is lowered from the helicopter to the ship with out any communication from the pilot. The person had a bag strapped to his back. What was happening?
‘Morning Stephanus.' The new captain saluted Stephanus.
‘You're wanted above. I'm here to take over the cruise.’
'Why? What has happened?' Stephanus was worried something had happened to one of his cruise ships.
‘Don't know. I was called in to take your place. Up you go.' The captain unhooked the harness from his body and passed it to Stephanus. Brian will fill you in once you're on board.' Next moment Stephanus was being winched through the air to the helicopter.
‘Like to tell me why all the mystery.' Stephanus wanted to know as soon as he settled and the helicopter was on the way back to land.
‘Do you know a Thomas Kendrick?’
‘He's my father's lawyer. Why?’
‘Thomas called a couple of hours ago looking for you.’
‘What does my father want? I haven't heard from him since I left home.’
‘I'm sorry. Your father has died. Massive heart attack. The funeral is Thursday. I have made flight arrangements. Also had clothes packed for the trip. We're headed for the airport.’
Stephanus was silent as Brian rattled off all the arrangements he had made.
‘You did want to go? Didn't you?’
‘Stubborn to the very last. Way to go father.’
‘You weren't very close?' Brian began to worry if he had made the right decision.
‘He was a stubborn dictator. Wanted to run all my life. Even had a girl picked out for me to marry as soon as I finished college.’
‘Ohh! No wonder you have never mentioned your father.’
‘Don't worry Brian. I have to go. There will be the family business to sort out. You're in charge until I get back. I'll let you know where to contact me once I have arrived'.
‘Thank goodness. I thought I may have done the wrong thing.’
Stephanus left the helicopter to continue on his non-stop journey to his home to attend his father's funeral.
After the funeral Stephanus went with Thomas Kendrick to his office for the reading of the will. Thomas watched Stephanus as he paced the floor of the office like a caged tiger. He knew Stephanus was not going to be happy when he told him the terms of his father's will. He dreaded what would happen when he told Stephanus the contents. Thomas could feel the tension building ready to explode. Thomas opened the folder he had placed on the desk before him. Time to tell Stephanus of his father's last demand on his life.
‘Stephanus! Would you please be seated? We can start with the reading of your father's will.' Thomas watched as Stephanus collapsed into the chair. He had not had a good night's sleep since he had boarded the helicopter. 'You were making me nervous with all the pacing.’
‘Sorry Thomas,' Stephanus grumbled. Doom settled heavily on his shoulders. He couldn't sit so he stood to go to stand looking out of the window. 'If you don't mind Thomas I would prefer to stand.’
Thomas picked up the folder and swiveled the chair to face Stephanus. He could see him was waiting for the ax to fall. His shoulders slumped Stephanus stood gazing down on the people walking along the street below. Thomas did not like the dark, broody look on Stephanus' face. His dark brows eyelashes lowered over his fierce, golden flecked, brown eyes. Eyes so piercing that people moved quickly out of his way when ever he was annoyed.
‘Ahh!'Finding his voice to confront the tiger with the bad news. 'The gist of the will is that you will receive the family shipping business, house and land, as well a large portion of the money, but....'Thomas hesitated.
‘But what?' snapped Stephanus, not able to stand the strained silence. 'Out with it man. What has my father stipulated?’
‘Before you can claim your inheritance, you have......ahh!.....you're not going to like this. You have to be married.’
‘What?' Stephanus exploded, turned to face Thomas. Disbelief showed in every muscle of his body.
‘You have to be married,' Thomas stated.
‘That's ridiculous! My father must have known I was not married.' Stephanus thundered. 'Why should I marry to please him? What happens to everything if I'm not married?’
‘All of it will go to a distant relative who lives in Greece.’
‘That's ridiculous! He can't do that. Is there any way to stop this from happening?’
Thomas sat silent as he turned a few pages trying to gain some strength before the next burst of anger.
‘Well?’
‘You have a year in which to comply with the marriage part.’
‘What else has he stipulated? I bet he's up there laughing himself silly.’
‘Your wife should also be with child in the year.’
‘That devious bastard!' Stephanus raked his fingers through his hair. He turned back to the window to think. Now, what was he to do? He couldn't let the family fortune to be given away to some stranger.
‘Who's the woman I'm suppose to marry?' inquired Stephanus, in the hope Stella Avery was not the woman.
‘No one has been recommended. The woman has to be of your choice I presume.’
‘That was very kind of my father. So I get to make my own choice, at last?' Sarcasm dripped from every word which was forced past his lips.
‘As long as she is a working woman. Not someone who would marry you for your money. Or for the prestige of being married to Stephanus Rickley. Someone who'll stay married to you until death do you part.’
‘Is that all the surprises? No more orders.' Thomas agreed there were no more surprises. 'I didn't know my father was such a romantic.' Stephanus stood staring out of the window. At last he spoke. I suppose I had better get started. It looks as though I will be busy over the next year if I want to keep the family fortune. Do I receive any thing at all if I don't comply with all the terms?’
‘Yes. The family house and land will be yours.’
‘How very gracious my father has been.’
Chapter Two
Thomas explained the rest of the will to Stephanus. How the company was progressing. Stephanus stood brooding near the window his mind was not on what Thomas was saying. Stephanus was in a world of his own trying to figure out a plan. How was he to comply to his father's wishes.? What type of woman would his father pick? Stephanus was checking out all the women who walked along the street below him. He dismissed many for different reasons. The color of their hair, their shape, their walk as they moved along the street.
Stephanus was surveying all the women with a critical eye. The same eye he would use if he was purchasing a car, or a horse. Then he spied the right candidate. Right shape for bearing him a child. His father liked women with reddish hair. His mother had lovely thick, reddish brown hair. That woman would fit into the plan. His eyes followed the woman as she walked down the street.
'Thomas!' Stephanus shouted, stopping Thomas in mid-sentence. 'Get over here! Quick!'
Thomas dropped the folder from which he had been reading on to his desk to rush over to where Stephanus stood. Thomas looked out of the window to see what had caught his interest.
'That woman!' Stephanus pointed in the direction the women was walking. 'The one with the reddish hair and the great curves walking toward the bank. Find her for me and I'll get married.'
Thomas was flabbergasted. Stephanus couldn't be serious. 'You have to be joking? The woman could be married,' pleaded Thomas.
'I didn't see a wedding ring. You find her for me.' Stephanus straightened his broad shoulders into a stubborn pose. 'If you can find her I will get married.'
'Why her?' Suspicion crossed Thomas' face. 'Do you know her?'
'Never set eyes on her before now.'
Stephanus went on to explain to Thomas the woman would fit in with all his father's requirements. Her hair was the right color, body the right shape. Stephanus waved his hands to explain his reasoning. She had large breasts which would be great for feeding a baby. The hip area just right to carry his heir, not to large or too thin. She wasn't over attractive but more on the plain side. No one would want to steal her from him. She didn't repulse him so he could learn to live with her. The woman didn't look to be a pushy person, more accepting.
'The woman is not a horse,' exclaimed Thomas, disgusted with Stephanus' decision.
Stephanus let Thomas' comment pass. He explained he didn't have time to go shopping for a wife. There was the both companies to run. When would he have time to look? 'You'll have to hire someone to find her.'
'How are you going to get her to marry you? The woman may have plans of her own.' Thomas pleaded the case of the woman. He hoped Stephanus would change his mind. 'How do you want me to proceed? What do I tell her?'
'You find her. I'll have a plan ready.' Stephanus told Thomas moments before he stalked out of the office. As the door slammed shut Stephanus felt the door close tightly, locking him away from his freedom.
Thomas walked over to his desk and collapsed on to his chair in disbelief. How could Stephanus do that? Pick out a woman off the street and say she would do. Stephanus couldn't even see the woman properly. 'Oh, well.' Thomas shrugged off his discomfort. Thomas reached out for his phone and pressed the number for his private detective who was usually good at finding missing people. This woman was not missing. She didn't know she had to be found. The call was answered on the third ring.
Jeff Peters had just returned to his office from working on another case. His eyes were blood shot from many days without proper sleep. His clothes were wrinkled and smelly from sleeping in them when he could catch a few moments sleep.
Slowly lifting the phone Jeff mumbled a greeting. He listened to the caller explain what he wanted Jeff to do. Jeff couldn't believe what he had been asked to do. He had to take photographs of females with reddish hair who walked along Sixth Avenue.
'When do you need me to start?' inquired Jeff.
'Yesterday. There's a time limit.' Thomas explained.
'So soon?' Jeff complained. 'I've just finished a very grinding cast over night.'
'Time is of the essence. With luck you might find this woman in one day,' joked Thomas. 'You should enjoy the job. Think of all the beautiful women you will be able to chat up.'
'Don't think my wife will be too thrilled,' Jeff laughed. 'Other than the prints what else do you need?'
'We'll need the names and addresses of each woman you photograph.'
'What do I tell them? Don't want to get arrested. Or get my face slapped.'
'Tell them it is for a competition. Or something along that line.'
Thomas advise Jeff to deliver the prints each day. My client can look at them to find the woman he seeks.
Early the next morning Jeff had taken up his position on the street with his camera loaded with film. Jeff was kept busy clicking photos. Taking down notes on each woman with reddish hair. He had never before this assignment known how many women had natural, or dyed reddish hair. There were so many different shades of red, reddish brown, carrot, through to fiery reds. By the time the day had passed Jeff had snapped four rolls of thirty-six films. Jeff hoped he had captured the right woman for the client.
Jeff returned to his office as the sun began to sink behind the tall buildings. Traffic jammed the streets fighting to find their way home.
On entering his office Jeff headed into his dark room to develop the films and to make prints of them all. The hour was late by the time Jeff had finished the developing, printing and drying of the prints. Placing the photographs in a large envelope ready to deliver to the office of Thomas Kendrick in the morning.
Jeff Peters was waiting for Thomas Kendrick when he arrived at the office the next morning. Thomas opened the office door ans Jeff followed Thomas through to his own office.
'Have a seat.' Thomas waved his hand in the direction of the chair. He placed his briefcase on the desk to unpack some files which he had taken out to place on the desk of his secretary's desk. He left the files for her to deal with when she arrived at work. Thomas closed his briefcase to place on the floor beside his desk.
Jeff handed over the envelope which he carried to Thomas when he had finally been seated on the chair behind the desk.
Thomas opened the envelope and emptied the photographs on the desk. He sifted through the photographs to look for the woman Stephanus had picked out. It was like looking for a lost needle in a hay stack. One photograph finally caught his eye. Thomas picked up the photograph to study it more closely. The photograph was not a close-up shot. Thomas reached into his desk draw and pulled out a magnifying glass to inspect the photograph more closely.
'Have you a closer shot of this photograph?' Thomas handed the photograph over to Jeff.
'Don't think so. I clicked a photograph to finish the roll.'
The two of them sorted through the photographs giving them a closer look. Jeff found another photograph of the same woman in the background of another photograph. The woman was walking up some steps to a building which held offices. Thomas and Jeff compared the two photographs to finally decide the were of the same woman.
'Could you bring these two photographs up closer? So we can have a better look.'
'I could try. I'll go back to the office to see what I can do with them.'
Jeff took the two photographs back to his office. He worked on them until they came a little clearer but he could not get a real clear shot of her face. Jeff went back to see Thomas Kenrick. He was shown into his office. Jeff handed over the adjusted photographs to Thomas before he collapsed on to the chair. He waited for Thomas to look then decide if she was the right woman.
Thomas examined the photographs of the woman with the magnifying glass. After a closer inspection a smile turned up the corners of his mouth. He could see some of the assets which Stephanus had explained. Stephanus was in for an all might shock as well as trouble. Let's see if he can accomplish his plan.
'Would you be able to find this woman?' Thomas asked, devious devils dancing in his eyes.
'It shouldn't be too hard. I'll stake out the office building to wait for her to appear.'
'Find her! I believe she is the one we've been looking for.' Thomas rubbed his hands together in glee. Let's see Stephanus escape this trap.
'Yes, Sir!' Jeff saluted Thomas, as he stood to leave the office. He headed off in search of the woman with the reddish brown hair.
Jeff didn't have a clear view of her face so he would have to body watch. Hoped he could find the right body without getting into too much trouble.
Thomas reached for his phone as the door closed behind Jeff. He pushed the numbers for the office where he believed he would find Stephanus. The smile was still in his voice when Stephanus answered the call.
'I believe we may have found the woman. Don't have her name yet. That's trying to be checked out while we speak. We know which building she goes into for work. There are a couple of photographs here if you would like to look at them. I may have picked the wrong one.'
'That was quick. How many photographs do you have for me to look at.?'
'Over one hundred. All very beautiful women.'
'What? Where did you find so may?' Stephanus couldn't believe there were so many women in one town with red colored hair. 'When could I see the photographs?'
'As soon as you like. I have them all spread over my desk as we speak.'
'I'll try to get away from here in about an hour. See you then.'
When Stephanus arrived at the office Thomas handed him the envelope with all the photographs. Except for the two which had been enlarged. Thomas patiently waited as Stephanus searched his way through the photographs.
'I didn't know there were so many red colors. Nearly every woman must have red hair,' Stephanus murmured, still searching and discarding photographs, which he didn't want.
By the time Stephanus had finished he had placed two photographs on the desk in front of him. He handed the envelope back to Thomas. Stephanus looked more closely at them.
'I believe that's her. The woman in the background of these photographs.' Stephanus was impressed by how quick Thomas had been to collect so many photographs. 'You sure you didn't have these hidden away. My father didn't have you collect them? I wouldn't put anything past him.'
'No way! How would you father know what type of woman you'd pick? Jeff worked all day to collect the names and take the photographs.'
'We still don't know who she is. It could take days, or weeks, to find her.' Stephanus hoped it would. He hadn't had time to devise a plan of action.
'Knowing Jeff as I do he'll probably have all her details by the close of day.' Thomas smiled at the not too pleased look on Stephanus' face. 'Getting cold feet, are we?'
'Didn't like the idea to start with. You're beginning to sound a lot like my father. What's wrong with being single?'
'Think of all the money you'll save. No prowling out all night for a temporary mate. No dinners to be eaten in restaurants. Going to bed at a reasonable hour. Someone to keep you warm in the winter......' Thomas pointed out the good points of marriage until Stephanus cut in.
'Children who cost a fortune to keep. Nagging wife. Outings as a family when you'd rather be somewhere else.'
Chapter Three.
Thomas opened the folder on the desk in front of him to take out the enlarged photographs. He handed them over to Stephanus. His dark eyebrows rose in surprise when he took them from Thomas.
'So you knew she might be the right woman? Do you know who she is?'
'Jeff is working on finding her as we speak. He may have found her by now.'
'When will we know?' The marriage noose was tightening around his neck.
'Do you have your plan ready? To lure her to do your bidding.' Thomas smiled at Stephanus daring him to continue with this stupid plan of his. Forfeit his claim to the family fortune. Or go out to find a woman for himself. 'If you can.'
Stephanus could feel there was something which Thomas was not telling him. Thomas was acting strangely and his eyes held a secret, only he himself knew. Thomas had no intention of parting with his secret. Stephanus could feel another pull as the noose tightened another fraction. 'May I take these?' Stephanus held up the photographs.
'Sure. Maybe by tomorrow Jeff will have the name to go with the photograph.'
Stephanus nodded. They discussed some other business before Stephanus left the office.
Jeff took up his position outside of the office building where he could watch for the woman to appear. He had only been there for a few hours when the woman walked out of another building. Jeff watched and took photographs as she walked up the street towards him. She turned to walk up the steps to another building. Jeff followed close behind to watch where she went. She stopped at the lift bank. Jeff stopped behind her. When she entered the lift Jeff followed. She pushed the button for the floor where she wanted to go.
'What floor?' She turned to inquire of Jeff.
'The same,' replied Jeff, casting her a thank you smile.
When the lift arrived at the floor Jeff waited for the woman to walk out first. He walked slowly looking toward different doors as though he was searching for a certain office. Jeff kept a close look on her as he casually strolled down the corridor. He waited for a few moments before he entered the office as though he was looking for someone.
'How may I help you?' The woman behind the desk asked Jeff. 'Do you have an appointment?'
Jeff raked his fingers through his hair with a puzzled frown on his face. 'I thought I saw my wife come into this office.'
'What's her name? She may have an appointment.'
'Rose White.'
The woman looked at her appointment book. 'No. No one of that name has an appointment today. She may have entered one of the other offices.'
'Maybe she was her for a message for a friend. She has reddish brown hair. A beautiful body with curves in all the right places.' Jeff described the woman who had entered the office before him.
'The only one who has passed through here to vaguely fit your description was Jewelle Forrester. She works here,' explained the woman.
'Thank you for your help. I'll try the next office.' Jeff smiled at the woman behind the desk then walked out of the office. He had a name. Now he could head back to his office to dig for details on the woman he had been out searching.
Once out of the building, Jeff took his notebook out of his pocket of his shirt to write down the name. All he had to do was find out where she lived. 'The phone book!' Jeff turned to walk back to his office. On the way he came across a phone booth.
He rushed through the crowd to reach the phone booth before someone else could claim it. Flipping open the book to the section he needed Jeff began to run his finger down the names of Forrester. In a few moment Jeff found there was only one Forrester with the right initial. Taking out his notebook he wrote down the address and phone number. He looked at his watch to find he still had time to rush to the office of Thomas Kendrick. Thomas would be pleased he had found the woman.
Jeff puffed from the long run as he pushed his way through the people on the street. He rushed into the front office as someone was about to close the door for the day.
'Sorry, Sir, but you can't come in unless you have a late appointment,' Jeff was told by the woman blocking his way.
'I don't have an appointment. Is Thomas Kendrick still here? I have some information for him on a case we have been working on.'
The woman went to the desk. She picked up the phone to see if Thomas was still in the building.
'Mister Kendrick. There's a gentleman here to see you. Said it was important.'
'I don't have an appointment listed. Who's the gentleman?'
'Excuse me.' She looked toward Jeff. What's you name?'
'Jeff Peters.'
'Send him straight in,' Thomas told her before she could repeat the name.
'You can go in.'
Jeff rushed down the corridor to reach the office. He knocked on the door.
'Come in.' Jeff was all smiles when he opened the door to the office. Thomas Kendrick was placing files in his briefcase when in walked Jeff. 'You cut that fine. Another few moments and I would have been on my way home.'
Jeff closed the door behind him. He collapsed into the nearest chair. Reaching up he took the notebook from his pocket and opened it.
'Don't tell me you have found her?' Thomas stopped packing files into his briefcase.
'Her name is Jewelle Forrester, I hope. I have snapped some more photographs. According to the phone book she lives at 270 Rodes Drive, Sunshine Peaks. I even have the phone number. She works for Stedman and First employment agency.' Jeff closed his note book and waited for Thomas to speak. He looked up to find the man had a smile as wide as the moon. Little devils dancing in his eyes.
'What's so funny? You look as though you have won a million dollars,' Jeff told Thomas.
Thomas pulled his mind back to the office and away from the dreams of the look on Stephanus' face the day of his wedding. Thomas closed his briefcase and seated himself.
'Good Job! You sure she's the right one?' Thomas had his fingers crossed below the desk.
'I followed her to the office. The woman at the front desk proudly gave me the name. Didn't have to twist her arm for her to give me the name. The rest was easy. Only thing I don't know for sure is if she is single. I didn't see any rings on her hands. I'll get the photographs to you in the morning. Any more I can do to help with this case?' This case had been puzzling to Jeff but very interesting. He wondered who wanted her found.
'I think that is all for now. I'll speak to my client to see what's to happen with the information. If you are need to collect some more I'll give you a call. Thank you for being so quick.'
Thomas shook hands with Jeff. 'Send the account with the photographs.' Jeff was shown out of the office.
Jeff's wife would be pleased to have her husband home for a whole night.
Early next morning Thomas rang Stephanus to report the good news. The glee came through with each word Thomas spoke. 'I have a name and address for you. Some more photographs have been delivered this morning.'
With a heavy heart Stephanus prayed Thomas and his henchman had made a mistake. Stephanus looked at the photographs of her which were on his desk.
'Have you finalized the plan ready for action?'
Stephanus explained to Thomas how he intended to deal with the matter. Thomas was shocked as he listened. He didn't think Stephanus could be so calculating. Thomas could not see how Stephanus was to make his plan work. There had to be a few flaws somewhere. There had to be some part of the plan which Stephanus had kept to him self.
When Jewelle Forrester arrived home from work on Thursday there was a letter waiting for her. Surprised she read the name of a firm of solicitors on the envelope. Why were they writing to her? There had to be some mistake. A worried frown crossed her face. Opening the door she hurried into the flat.
Jewelle walked into the lounge room. She dropped her purse and keys on to the coffee table. Collapsing into the nearest chair she stared at the envelope which she held in trembling fingers. Should she open it now? Should she wait until her room mate, Sahara Bates, to come home from work.
She waited patiently waited another five minutes. Curiosity took over her patience making her rip open the envelope. Taking a deep breath then a sigh to calm his nerves before she unfolded the letter. Her eyes grew wide. Her mouth dropped open as she read the letter. Jewelle couldn't believe what the words what the letter indicated. It couldn't be true. What could the letter mean? The letter couldn't be meant for her.
Rushing to the phone Jewelle pushed the numbers written at the top of the letter to reach Thomas Kendrick. She prayed someone would still be at the office. Someone would be able to explain to her what the letter meant.
Finally the call was answered. Jewelle explained to the woman about the letter. She didn't believe it was for her. 'Would I be able to talk to Thomas Kendrick?'
'Mister Kendrick is with a client at the moment. After that he has to attend a meeting.'
'Would you be able to explain to me the contents?'
'Sorry. Mister Kendrick is the only one who has all the information. You will have to make an appointment to see Mister Kendrick.'
'There's an appointment in the letter but I didn't believe this letter was for me.' Jewelle was no wiser when she finished the call. She was only anxious about attending the appointment.
Jewelle was seated in the lounge chair when Sahara arrived home from work. The letter rested on her lap as she stared blankly locked in a world of her own. Sahara was surprised to see her usually bubbly friend looking dejected as she sat there in the lounge room.
'What's up?' Asked Sahara. 'You look dreadful.'
Picking up the letter she handed it to Sahara. Sahara read the letter then collapsed into the nearest chair. Looking at Jewelle with concern on her face, Sahara asked, 'Wonder what they want? Maybe a long lost relative died to leave you their fortune? You haven't forgotten to pay a bill?'
'I rang the office but the woman who I spoke to wouldn't tell me anything. I'll have to attend the appointment to see what they want.'
'Ahh! Well! I suppose we'll have to wait until tomorrow.' Sahara stood up. 'What's for dinner?'
'Sorry!' Jewelle jumped up from her chair. 'I completely forgot about dinner.'
Sahara said,'Don't panic. I won't be in for dinner. I have a date.' Sahara left the room to go for a shower and dress to go out.
Jewelle went to the kitchen. She looked into the fridge but nothing appealed to her mood. The letter had taken away her desire for food but she would have to eat something.
Reaching into the fridge she took out the ham and cheese. A toasted sandwich would do. Jewelle made a cup of coffee. She put the drink and the sandwich on a tray and carried it into the lounge room. She curled up on a chair vaguely watching the show on television.
'I'm leaving now,' called Sahara, as she ducked her head round the edge of the doorway.
Jewelle stayed in the lounge room for about an hour before she gave up trying to concentrate on the television. Taking her dishes to the kitchen she rinsed the few dishes and left them to drain. Then she headed for the shower.
Propped up in bed with a book Jewelle found it hard to concentrate on the words written on the page. Jewelle had read the same page twice but could not remember what she had read. She finally closed the book to place on her dressing table beside her bed. Jewelle reached for her notebook in which she jotted down her thoughts, or an occasional poem. What she would give to be able to have sometime to collate her thought together to maybe write some stories, or a novel. She sighed. Closed the notebook when she realized all she was writing was 'Why' all over the page. Turning out the light she tried to sleep and forget the letter.
Chapter Four.
Jewelle tossed and turned all through the night. Wild scenes flitted through her mind. The bed covers were twisted tightly round her body. The bed covers restricted her movements. Jewelle felt as though she was suffocating. Drowning! She was trying to swim to reach solid ground. Her legs were anchored. Thrashing her arms Jewelle was trying to escape but she was fighting a loosing battle. She was going to drown. 'Help!' she screamed in an attempt to save her life.
As the sensation of drowning over came Jewelle the alarm clock beside her bed blasted forth a tune shattering her dream. Her heart pumped fast and hard, her breathing labored, Jewelle opened her eyes blinking to try to focus on her surroundings. She reached out to turn off the alarm.
When Sahara heard Jewelle scream she jumped from her bed. Grabbed her dressing gown to put on as she raced from her room. Just as she pushed open the door the alarm clock burst into music.
The piercing scream which had emitted from Jewelle had frightened Sahara. She came to a sudden stop to see Jewelle seated in the middle of the bed staring into space her eyes blank.
'Jewelle?' Sahara called, to see if Jewelle was awake or still in the throes of her dream.
The first time she didn't answer so Sahara called a little louder while slowly moving closer to the bed. Jewelle blinked then turned toward Sahara.
'Jewelle? Is there something wrong? Are you sick?' Sahara waited for an answer. 'Jewelle? What happened?' Sahara sat on the edge of the bed and touched Jewelle on the shoulder with concern in her eyes.
'Sahara?' Jewelle sighed.
Jewelle flung herself at Sahara. Grabbed her in a bear hug then burst into tears. 'I thought you were an angel. You'd come to take me away,' she sobbed.
'You mean to say I'm not an angel?' Joked Sahara, stroking her friends back to calm her. 'I nearly broke my neck getting here. And a few toes! I came rushing in to save you. How ungrateful!'
Jewelle pulled away from Sahara. She wiped the tears from her face on the bottom of her night gown. Giving Sahara a watery smile, she said, 'You are an angel.'
'What happened to my wings?' Sahara joked. 'I can't seem to find them.' She turned toward the mirror looking for her wings. Sahara reached up with her hand to pat the top of her head. 'No halo, either?'
Jewelle felt her body begin to relax. Her lips quiver moments before she collapsed against the pillows and begin to laugh.
'That's better! Now tell Angel Sahara what frightened you.'
'Just a bad dream.' Jewelle wriggled free of the bed covers. 'I thought I was going to drown.'
'You don't usually have bad dreams. What brought on this one? Not that silly letter?' Jewelle nodded in the affirmative. 'You poor thing!'
'I don't think I'll go to the appointment,' Jewelle stated.
Sahara looked disappointed. She couldn't let her friend miss out on a piece of good fortune. It had to be good fortune.
'I believe you should go. There could be a million dollars there waiting for you to claim. Think how you'd feel if you missed out.'
'Okay! I'll go.' Jewelle finally gave in and agreed to go.
'I'll even take time off work to go with you if you want company.' Sahara suggested.
'I'd like that. I'll pack my courage and go to see what Thomas Kendrick wants.
At eleven, Jewelle and Sahara, walked into the outer office for Thomas Kendrick. They were told to take a seat. Even though Jewelle had found a little courage she was still agitated. She strummed her fingers on her handbag. Her knees trembled while Sahara kept talking to Jewelle to keep her mind otherwise occupied.
'Miss Forrester.' Called the woman behind the desk.
Startled Jewelle jumped to her feet.'Yes.'
'You can go in now.'
Jewelle looked down at Sahara. She smiled encouragement to her. Jewelle straightened her shoulders before walking to the office door. She hoped Thomas Kendrick could not hear her knees knocking together.
Thomas introduced himself. He invited Jewelle to take a seat. When they were both seated Thomas outlined the reason why he had written to her.
'We have been looking for you for sometime.' He went on to explain an old relative many times removed had died and left his house to her. You were the only living relative. There is a small amount of money she would receive monthly.
Jewelle there staring at Thomas. Her mouth open in disbelief. She could take in what Thomas was telling her. Couldn't remember any relatives. She didn't have any relations as far as she knew. This had to be a bad joke. Her mind and emotions were in turmoil.
'You can move into the house this weekend if you want to. I could make arrangements to have you taken to the house.'Will that suit you Miss Forrester?' Thomas had come to the end of his monologue. He looked up to see why Jewelle hadn't answered him. Her face was pale and her eyes stared at him. 'Miss Forrester? Are you sick?' When she didn't answer Thomas left his chair to pour some brandy into a glass. He walked over to where Jewelle was seated. 'Here Miss. Have a drink. This will make you feel better.'
Jewelle lifted her shaking hands to take the proffered glass automatically lifting the glass to her lips. She took a mouthful thinking the drink would only be water. Grasping for breath as the alcohol slipped down her throat. She began to cough. 'What was that?' croaked Jewelle.
'Brandy,' replied Thomas, worriedly patting her on the back.
Jewelle winced. 'I don't partake of alcohol.'
'Sorry!' Thomas was contrite. 'At least it brought some color back to you cheeks.' Thomas went to sit on his chair. 'Will those arrangements be suitable with you?'
Jewelle looked blankly at Thomas. 'What arrangements? I didn't hear after you told me I owned a house.'
Thomas explained some of what he had told her. He would send her a letter with the arrangements. 'They will be delivered by special messenger.' By then she should should have had time to get over the shock. Have a more clear head to absorb what was planned.
'I agree.' Jewelle left the office in a trance as though she was a sleepwalker. She had nearly walked passed Sahara sitting in the waiting room.
'Jewelle!' Sahara jumped up from her seat to catch her friend by the arm. 'What happened? You look terrible.'
'Jewelle turned to Sahara. 'I need a coffee. Let's go find one. I have a house. That brandy was horrible.' Jewelle kept blabbering from her shock. Sahara couldn't make much sense of all the bits and pieces of information.
'What house? What are you talking about?' Sahara was worried.
'I'll tell you over coffee. Come on!' Jewelle increased the speed of her walk.
'Oh!' Sahara was peeved she would have to wait for the rest of the information.
Sahara headed Jewelle into the nearest coffee shop. She wanted to hear all about why Jewelle was acting strange.
'Two coffee's please.' Sahara ordered while Jewelle went to find them a table. Sahara slid into the seat across from Jewelle. She handed her the cup of coffee. Sahara leaned back in her chair with her arms folded across her chest with a determined look on her face.
'Come on, Jewelle! Spill the beans! Tell Angel Sahara what happened.' Sahara fought to keep her quivering lips from bursting into laughter at her friends expression.
Jewelle was silent for a moment longer trying to piece together what she could remember. Angel Sahara? Where did Angel Sahara fit into the muddled conversation? Who was Angel Sahara? Jewelle looked up from her contemplation of the coffee in her cup. Light suddenly dawned. A smile came to her lips.
'That's better.'
'Thanks Angel Sahara.'
Jewelle leaned forward on the table to explain what she could remember of her conversation with Thomas. She told Sahara she was the owner of a house in the country. She didn't remember much of what she'd been told of the house. She was to receive a small allowance each month. Something about living in the house for a year to see if she wanted to live permanently in the country. The house would be signed over to her if she truly wanted to live there after the year had passed. If she didn't stay the year the house would be sold.
'Where's this house?' interrupted Sahara. 'What about your work?'
Jewelle shrugged her shoulders.
'What are you going to do about the house?'
Jewelle explained she had a week in which to be ready to leave. She was torn. Jewelle didn't want to leave Sahara, or her job, even though the thought of living in the country was a strong draw card. Her job would not advance her career. Could not climb any higher up the ladder to success. The rung where she stood was the highest possible place. She was at a dead end.
Maybe this change in her life would give her a chance to dabble with her idea of writing. She could be free. Oh, boy! What's Dale going to say?
'Dale!' Jewelle suddenly remembered her sort of boyfriend, she'd been seeing at work.
'Where?' Sahara looked round the room to find him.
'What am I going to tell him? He's not going to to like my news. He'll be mad. What am I going to do?' Panicked Jewelle.
Sahara had a sly smile on her lips at the thought of what Dale would say. How he would react. Dale wasn't the kind of person to bury himself in the country. He was so predictable. Sahara could hear his words as though they had all ready been spoken
'You can't do this to me. You can't go! I won't let you go.' All words which would raise the eerie of Jewelle. There would be a big argument. Jewelle would go to the country. The smile broadened on on Sahara's lips. Good! She never liked Dale. He was too bossy, self indulgent. Good riddance! She moved abruptly from her chair.
'Come on! We have a lot of packing to do.' Sahara grabbed Jewelle by the arm to lead her from the coffee shop.
Dale arrived unexpectedly on a surprise visit to find out why Jewelle had not been at work. He was the one to receive the biggest surprise.
Sahara went to answer the knock on the door because she was the closest. She stood there staring at Dale. Every muscle tightened in her body. She straightened her spine knowing the scene which would follow once he knew what Jewelle had planned. Sahara stood back to let Dale into the flat. Then she stood back to wait for the sparks to fly.
Dale came to a sudden halt. A frown of disbelief crossed his face when he looked at the mess. Boxes and items were scattered on the floor ready for packing. He turned to face Sahara with brows arching. 'You leaving?' Dale sounded as though he was pleased she would be leaving.
Sahara wasn't going to be the one th break the good news no matter how much she would love to tell Dale where he could go.
'Sahara! Where did I put my green jumper? Did I pack.....' Jewelle stopped talking. Her mouth was working but no words were coming out.
Dale spun round toward Jewelle. Sparks were flying from his eyes toward Jewelle as thunder clouds reverberated round the room.
Jewelle's spirits sank to an all time low. What was she going to tell Dale? How was she to word her speech? Dale! I'm going away for a year, she tried in her mind. No! I was left a house in the country. No! Jewelle discarded that idea as well.
'Would someone mind telling me what's happening here? Something tells me I'm not going to like the answer. Sahara's not the one who's moving. Is she?' Dale demanded, not giving the women a chance to offer an answer.
Sahara moved away from the door. 'I have to go for a shower.' She announced as she moved across the room. She walked past Jewelle and pattered her on the shoulder for comfort. 'I'll let you tell Dale your good news.' She disappeared into her bedroom.
Time seemed to stand still. Dale was furious. Jewelle's lost temper surfaced. The two of them glared at each other. Both sets of tempers were at boiling point.
'Well!' Dale was the first one to speak. Then all hell broke loose.
Sahara had waited in the shower for the storm to abate before she came out of the bathroom to survey the damage. Jewelle was seated on a chair in the lounge room.
'Where's Dale?' Sahara ventured.
'Gone. He wouldn't listen to me.' Jewelle grumbled.
Sahara let out a long breath she hadn't realized she had been
holding and went to comfort her friend.
Chapter Five.
On Friday Jewelle woke before the sun rose from its slumber to bring forth a new day. A new start to another life for her. Hopefully a much more secure and happy life. She looked round the empty room no longer familiar. All her possessions had been stripped away. She would miss her old room. The walls which had listened to all her grumbles and secrets.
Jewelle scrambled from her bed. Dressed and packed the last of her belongings. The van would arrive at six to load her boxes. She went into the kitchen to make a pot of coffee. Then she sat down to take stock. To see if there was anything which she had forgotten to do.
She had handed in her notice to her boss on Monday which take affect once her holidays were finished. She had explained why she had decided to quit. Her boss wasn't happy about Jewelle leaving. He had tried to convince her she wasn't thinking straight.
'Why don't you take your holidays? A leave of absence to think?'
'No.' Jewelle was determined no to have her mind changed.
Her boss could see there was no way of talking Jewelle out of her decision. Her mind was made up and no one would be able to change her mind. He wished her all the best for the future. He hoped her future would be everything she wished it to be.
The day after the interview with Thomas Kendrick a special delivery package had arrived with all the arrangements which he had made. Jewelle was to be packed to leave on Friday.
Jewelle was packed. Finished work. She waited for the car to drive her to her new home. A small van would collect the boxes and suitcases. She looked round the kitchen for her purse. Didn't want to loose the purse because it held the house key. All the information on how to contact Thomas if she ever needed something done at the house.
The coffee she had made was left to go cold. Jewelle was still deep in thought when Sahara arrived in the kitchen.
'All packed?' Sahara asked. 'More coffee?' Sahara breezed round the kitchen making them drinks. 'How long have you been up?'
Jewelle looked at her watch. 'An hour.'
The two women sat talking while they drank their coffee.
The ringing of the phone startled both women. Jewelle moved from her chair to answer the call. Puzzled who would be calling them this early.
'Jewelle Forrester.'
'You still leaving?' Came the angry voice of Dale.
'Yes.' Jewelle stammered. 'I leave....' Bang went the phone as Dale slammed it down at his end. Jewelle pulled the phone away from her ear to star dumbfounded at the receiver before she replaced it.
'Dale, I presume?' Sahara asked.
'He still hasn't forgiven me. Still very angry.'
Dale will get over you,' Sahara told her, moments before there was a knock on the door of the flat.
Dale was forgotten for awhile while Jewelle and Sahara directed the men to the boxes and suitcases which had to be moved. With everyone helping the truck was soon loaded. Jewelle took one last look round the flat before she left.
Jewelle hugged Sahara then rushed to the waiting limousine. Moments later Jewelle waved farewell to Sahara as the car pulled away.
Jewelle and Sahara were unaware they had been observed by the occupants of a car which had been parked a few houses down the street. The car had arrived at the same time as the van. Where the car was parked the occupants could watch Jewelle carried through with their plans for her.
'Well? Jewelle is on her way. I've completed my part in your elaborate scheme. Not that I agree with you. It's callous! Stinks! Why couldn't you be a normal man and go look for your own woman? Now all you have to do is convince Jewelle to marry you. To have your heir.
'It's normal,' Stephanus snapped. 'I don't have time to date and chase. The rest of my plan should go off without a hitch. You watch. I'll have her...'
'Stop!; Thomas interjected. 'I don't want to know what you plan. I don't want to more of an accessory than I have been.'
'No one will hear of your complicity from me,' Stephanus stated.
'Be it on your head if something should go wrong,' Thomas said. 'You're on your own from here on.'
'I'll take care of the lady.' Stephanus may have spoken with confidence but a niggling feeling warned him to advance slowly, with care. Maybe he could use a bit of help.
The sun was well up by the time the limousine passed through the gate then up the driveway to the front of the house. There stood the most beautiful house which Jewelle had ever seen. The house was built in the Cape Cod style. She had always admired the style. She always wanted one of her own. Now she had the home she had always wanted. Jewelle was pleased she had agreed to accept the house.
The house was built in a beautiful location. Gardens were in full bloom. Everything looked grand. But there was something wrong. Jewelle could feel it in her bones. A cold shiver ran all the way down her spine. She looked at the house once again. The house gave off a sad feeling. It ached for love. It was crying out for love. Jewelle was shocked at the thought.
'Never mind,' whispered Jewelle. 'I'll make you happy again.'
'Excuse me, Miss. Were you talking to me?' asked the limousine driver.
'No,' Jewelle replied, as the limousine came to a stop.
The driver got out of the car to open the door for Jewelle to get out. She walked up the steps to open the door to the house. The door she left open for the men to carry her belongings into the house. Jewelle wandered through the house. The house was bigger than she thought it would be. There were rooms on the ground floor. Stairs led to more rooms on the next level where the windows opened to look out over the roof.
Everywhere was so....so clean. Why was that? The should have been some dust. Why wasn't there any dust? The house looked lived in. Jewelle shrugged away the idea to the back of her mind. She headed back down the stairs to begin to work.
When Jewelle arrived at the front door the men were carrying in the last of the boxes. The driver of the limousine handed the men an envelope before they left.
'Will you be all right, Miss?' asked the limousine driver.