by Laura Acton
Taking another mouthful first, Dan sighed as his food stayed down. “I’d die happy if I never puked again. Being poisoned sucked.”
“Yeah, it did, but on the bright side, your actions rescued so many children from a horrible life. I’m proud of how you handled yourself. This was no easy mission. It asked more of you than it should’ve. I’m going to give the general a piece of my mind. Wish I could give him a boot up the ass too.”
Dan shook his head. “Don’t. Don’t say anything. Don’t screw up your career. I’m not worth it.”
Blaze’s eyes flashed with fire, and his voice became stern. “Don’t you ever say that again. EVER! You are worthy! You can’t allow your father’s coldness towards you color your sense of value. You are loved, appreciated, and respected for precisely the man you are, son. If you were my son, you would never question your importance or worth.”
Dan wished with everything in him Blaze had been his father. The general didn’t value him one damned bit and would prefer if he was dead. Allowing Blaze’s words to sink in and take root, Dan gave him a slight smile. “Roger.”
Banking the fire in his eyes, Blaze patted Blondie’s knee. The kid’s father had done a number on him—the hard-hearted bastard didn’t know what an impressive man he had for a son. “Drink up. If you want more, I’ll bring you some. You need to stay hydrated and need the energy.”
After downing the remainder of the beef broth with assistance, Dan said, “Yeah, I’ll take more. Perhaps a few more crackers?”
“Sure. I’ll be back in a bit.” Blaze rose, glad Blondie took him up on his offer for more broth. They had enough bouillon for the kid and Patch, the rest of them would only drink water … which luckily, they had plenty of. Mason located a water-maker stored near the potable water tanks.
If they somehow went through the five hundred liters of fresh water in the tanks, they could make more. Hopefully, raiding the other boats would yield additional food, but if not, they would survive on water until they figured out a new plan.
Dan followed Blaze out of the cabin with his eyes before shutting them. I hope Mike is okay. I need off this damned boat. Images of blackness surrounding him and dragging him down to the depths of an icy cold lake and a sense of burning in his lungs caused Dan’s eyes to fly open. He blew out a ragged breath and hummed to distract himself.
City Hospital No. 2 – Mike’s Room – 1200 Hours
Frustrated Gaspar ran his hand over his balding pate. Katerina ran into a brick wall with Mike’s history. Every avenue she searched came up blank as if Mike didn’t exist after his twenty-first year. He stood and stretched as he wandered to the window. He punched in the number he obtained from Katerina, hoping to find the answers he sought. The phone rang and went to voicemail. Irritated, he dialed again, and again, and yet again.
Pulled out of sleep by the insistent ringing and his wife’s nudging, Charles rolled over and reached for his cell phone, noting the time and an unknown caller ID, he smiled. General Broderick must’ve come through. This must be Michael. He answered, “Hello?”
“Hello, I need to speak with Baron Wildingham,” Gaspar said, and added, “please,” as an afterthought.
“Speaking. Who are you?” Charles shifted and sat at the edge of the bed.
“Colonel Gaspar Kirillovich, I’m not sure if you remember me, but I—”
Worry shot through Charles, and he cut him off, “Yes I remember you. Why are you calling me at five thirty in the morning?”
Gaspar cringed. “I’m sorry, I forgot the time difference. It is twelve thirty here. I hated to call, but Mike is in the hospital, and I thought you might like to know.”
“Hospital? What happened?” The call late yesterday afternoon from William put him on edge. He didn’t know how to respond. He might say something wrong which might cause his son harm.
“Overzealous officers beat up Mike yesterday believing he was an abusive boyfriend of a missing woman. Can you tell me why he is in Makhachkala?”
Charles’ stomach clenched. He decided to go with the truth. “No.”
“Mike said his name is Urvan Yanovich, does that name mean anything to you?” Staring outside, Gaspar sighed. “He just disappeared, and sixteen years later he shows up with a different name.”
“What did Mike say about it?”
“Nothing yet. For the most part, he’s been asleep since late last night.”
“Is he okay? What are his injuries?” Charles mind raced attempting to determine what to say.
“Nothing seriously wrong. Mainly bruising, but Mike needs rest.”
That piece of news settled Charles’ mind. “Well, you will need to query Mike when he wakes because I have no idea why he is there.”
“When was the last time you saw him?”
“Been a very long time.”
Gaspar’s analytical mind realized Charles evaded his answers or gave him generalized responses. “Sir, what are you not telling me? This is Mike, and I’m concerned. The missing person’s report was canceled, and I cannot find out why. I want to help him, but unless I get information, I can’t.”
“Can’t help you. You must speak with Michael. I possess no knowledge of his activities … haven’t for years.”
“Did you two have a falling out?” Gaspar clutched at straws hoping to elicit useful information.
Mike listened to Gaspar’s side of the call, having woken when Gaspar asked for his father. At this point, he knew he must interject and quit feigning sleep. He spoke loud hoping his dad would overhear. “I left my father’s world behind long ago. You shouldn’t have called him. Hang up the phone now!”
Hearing Michael in the background, as much as Charles wished to talk to his son, he realized the best course of action was to entrust this whole affair in Michael’s hands, so he pressed the end call button. He stared at the cell phone. Dear Lord, please protect my son and bring him home safely.
Gaspar whipped around to Mike as the connection with Baron Wildingham severed. “What do you mean?”
“I told you I gave up the wastrel life. I cut ties with everyone and started a new life away from the insanity. Wanted something simple and different.”
“I can understand. My wakeup call was the semi. What is yours?”
Mike hated to lie to Gaspar, but did, “My trip to Makhachkala. Suffice to say I disappeared by choice. Never wanted to go back. When my father’s private security found me, I told them to leave me the hell alone. I became Urvan Yanovich so no one would realize I came from money.”
“You have been in Russia all along, living as Urvan?”
“Yeah, but now I guess I’ll need to go. You aren’t gonna arrest me for staying illegally, are you?”
Gaspar sat as he considered the new information. It fit given Mike’s life dead-ended right when Urvan’s picked up. He sighed and gazed at Mike. “No, but we are even now, and you must leave the county.” He leaned back and said, “You and your dad always had a decent relationship. Perhaps it is time to reach out to him. Nothing requires you to return to the crazy life, but maybe contact your family … your father sounded worried.”
“I’ll consider it. Thanks, Gaspar.” Mike changed subjects. “Would you be able to round me up something to eat?”
Rising, Gaspar gave him a slight nod. “I’ll check with the nurse.”
Canada – Baron Wildingham’s home – 5:40 a.m.
Charles rose and went to his study to speak without waking his wife. He selected the recent call and waited for it to connect. After receiving a brisk, “Broderick,” Charles realized the general was busy. “William, Charles here. Wanted to inform you I received a call from the person we spoke of earlier. I told the truth and gave no information. Just thought you should be aware.”
William replied, “Hold a moment.” He strode down the hall to the secure room before speaking again. “When did he contact you?”
“Ten minutes ago. He told me cops beat Michael due to mistaken identity. Michael gave him another name and Ga
spar call me for information. I told him he would need to talk to Michael. I hope I did right.”
“Yes. Thank you. Did he indicate the severity of the injuries?”
“Superficial, bruising mostly. Michael is aware he called me and told Gaspar he shouldn’t have and to hang up. When Gaspar didn’t, I did.”
Pacing as he listened, William responded, “Smart move.”
Charles gazed at the picture on his desk of his family and smiled. “I trust you and him to ensure he comes home. I planned a business trip to the Middle East next week. I want to visit, but if you tell me no, I’ll stay away.”
William understood the father’s desire. “As I said before, I’ll make sure Mike contacts you at the first opportunity.”
“Fair enough. Take care. Bye.” Charles hung up and pulled the framed photo to him. “Be safe, my son.”
Ops Command – Secure Mission Room – 1415 Hours
William stared at the far wall, not seeing anything as many emotions and thoughts swirled in his head. He appreciated Charles’ call because all Bransworth’s efforts to establish the identity of the person in the hospital had failed. Now he was aware Mike was there and his injuries not life-threatening. He had faith in Mike’s abilities to extract himself from the situation. A sense of relief settled over him.
Another emotion crept in as he thought about Mike’s and Charles’ relationship. Envy—an intense longing for a rapport with his son mirroring the loving connection shared by the Galloway men. One day, perhaps he would figure a way to resolve their impasse and reestablish his bond with Daniel.
That is … if Daniel returned from this mission. Concern for his boy and the other men topped his list of emotions. Aware of the storm and the fact they would have to ride it out he wondered how Daniel handled being in open water after his near-drowning. Dredging up the memory of the incident and ominous call from Major Sandoval to inform him Daniel almost died in a boating accident on Grand Lake still sent shivers down his spine.
When he learned it was the result of hazing, he blew his top. He didn’t want Daniel anywhere near men who behaved so stupidly. At his urging, Sandoval offered Daniel and Brody a change of duty station, and both accepted the transfer from CFB Gagetown to CFB Edmonton.
Raking fingers through his hair, William sought to refocus on the present. He turned to Tom and asked, “Can we do something to locate them? Are there any aircraft we can send to extract them?”
Tom shook his head sadly. “The Caspian Sea is over one hundred and forty-three thousand square miles. Odds of finding a yacht …”
“A needle in a haystack.” William stood and paced. “Any operatives close by we can insert to assist Galloway?”
“No.” Tom understood his CO’s fatherly concern. “Lyon’s jacket indicates she is skilled in nautical navigation. Blaze will certainly rely on her abilities.”
“I’m sure he will.” William paused briefly, “Waiting sucks.”
“Yes, yes it does.”
“Any recent communication from Savoy?”
Tom nodded. “Right before you entered. MI6 and SAS red-flagged the leak. Savoy is authorized to neutralize the threat.”
“But he isn’t active any longer. Why him?” William asked.
“Dom made his case to his former SAS commander. The fewer people made aware of Lambourne’s actions, the better for everyone’s security.”
William nodded in agreement, silently wished Dom luck, and turned his attention to other pressing matters. “Sitrep on Hammer’s unit.”
Makhachkala Airport – Private Hanger – 1500 Hours
As the security agent left after confirming his identity, Mike shoved his fake Urvan ID in his pocket. Without Gaspar’s help, he wouldn’t have gotten through security to retrieve his ID since it was in his pack in the aircraft at the time of his arrest. “Thanks, Gaspar.” Mike shook his old friend’s hand.
Gaspar gazed at the plane. Mike’s history as Urvan Yanovich checked out. He worked as a private pilot for hire, living a simple life. “Are you certain you want to stay here? I mean the hanger … you are welcome at Semyon’s place until you arrange your trip back to Canada.”
Mike felt a tinge of remorse as he lied. “I’m fine here. My employer furnishes room and board as part of my salary, nothing to pack. Promise, once the weather clears and I finish my last job, I’ll leave and won’t return.”
“Which yacht did you plan to resupply?”
“Don’t recall the name. The job provided coordinates and a radio frequency to contact them when I arrived. I hope they survived the storm with no fuel.”
Gaspar nodded, noting the fuel containers in the seaplane. “Me too. I’m sorry for all the trouble. Those cops will be dealt with appropriately.”
“From the sounds of it that Vasil had his heart in the right place, but his method needs work. Hope you make headway with your investigation. Savelievich needs to be locked away for life if what I read on your brother’s notes is true. Selling children into slavery is despicable.”
“We know he fled the country with a diplomatic delegation from Oshar. We are working on extradition. Also, need to locate the Jackal’s leader. My hands will be full for some time. It appears Vasil might not be the only problem for the Makhachkala politsia. Thought we wiped out corruption several years ago, but apparently we didn’t eradicate all the vermin.”
Gaspar pulled Mike into a hug and patted his back twice before stepping back. “Once you reestablish yourself in Canada, don’t be a stranger.”
Mike nodded, unsure he could ever contact Gaspar again. A tad unhappy, he waited until Gaspar left. Climbing into the pilot seat, he turned on the radio to contact the Minnow. Relief dispelled his gloom when Anastasia answered. They survived the gale.
Minnow – Lower Deck – Midship Cabin – 1530 Hours
Mason entered the cabin with broth for Blondie, Patch, and Brody. A huge smile lit his face finding all three awake and Blaze snoozing next to Blondie. The kid had a firm grip on Blaze’s hand and the railing as Brody tended to Patch. By now, they all realized Blondie dreaded being on a boat, near the sea, in a storm, or all the above. He along with the others chose not to comment on Blondie’s fright, the same way they handled the nightmares he suffered.
Another mutual decision implemented, they brought Brody broth too since they didn’t want Blondie cognizant of the limited rations. They reasoned he would insist on sharing the meager provisions. Brody caught on and ensured Blondie drank his portion. If Blondie were not so distracted, the ruse would not work, and he would’ve sussed out their subterfuge quickly.
“I come bearing food and news.” He handed two cups to Brody and then moved to Blondie’s side. “Blaze, wake up.” Mason sat on the floor, positioning himself close to the kid so he could hold the mug for him.
Patch eyed the broth and shook his head. “Can’t. Will come right back up. Give Blondie mine. He needs the nutrition more.”
Holding the mugs, Brody coaxed Patch to swallow a few mouthfuls. “You need this too. Try a little. Besides, I’m not hungry now. Danny can drink mine.”
Waking, Blaze shifted to a seated position as he rubbed his eyes. He yawned and glanced at Blondie checking his state before turning his attention to Mason. “What?”
“Mike made contact.” The news perked everyone’s ears, and they listened intently as Mason relayed why Mike missed their rendezvous. He concluded, “Mike and Anastasia are working out a new location now given our remaining fuel. We need to sink the boat with empty fuel tanks to support Mike’s story, in case the yacht is ever located. However, we won’t be able to meet until the weather clears and the waves are no more than four feet high. The smaller, the better for landing and taking off in the seaplane.”
“Did they indicate when that might be?” Blaze asked as he took over holding Blondie’s mug while Mason fished in his pocket for crackers.
“Most likely tomorrow.” Mason withdrew a few saltines and set them next to Blaze, understanding Papa Bear would take
over ensuring Blondie ate all they offered.
Dan turned eyes on Blaze wordlessly communicating he would manage one more day. Blaze’s eyes expressed pride.
Mason smiled observing the interaction. A true father-son moment. His heart filled with happiness for both Blaze and Blondie. As much as Blondie needed Blaze, a part of him realized Blaze needed Blondie. Relaxing, Mason allowed his mind to think about the value of loving fathers. Fathers and sons … bonds often fraught with struggle as sons attempt to break away and become men and fathers hold on because they care … until they realize their young must fly on their own … ultimately becoming fulfilling relationships as they become equals.
When they returned to base, Mason decided his first call would be to his dad to thank him for all his support over the years. He slipped into sleep with a smile on his face thinking of the last time went fishing with his athair.
Silencing the Snake
62
June 2
Paris – MI6 Satellite Records Office – 1:00 p.m.
Harriet Lambourne seethed as she unlocked her bottom drawer and pulled out her vodka. She added a goodly portion to her ‘juice’ bottle’ then took a swig straight from the vodka bottle, capped it, and locked it back up in her drawer. She took a long drink of her spiked orange juice and leaned back in her chair. Yesterday Jeannette ignored five calls. The little bitch lied about the girls being sick and refused to answer the phone.
A knock on her office interrupted her thoughts, and she called out in an irritated tone, “Enter.”
Corinne Berengaria strolled in with a plastered-on smile, noting Harriet’s juice bottle increased in contents from twenty minutes ago with no apparent means of water or juice in the room. She is hitting the bottle earlier than usual today. Corinne set a stack of papers on the desk. “These requests for reports require your authorization, ma’am.”
As she waited for Harriet to review and sign the paperwork, Corinne couldn’t help but think her boss appeared more distraught today. Everyone in the office knew how she felt about her position. She made quite a stink about this being a demotion when she took over a couple of years ago.
