The Braille Club Undone (The Braille Club #3)

by J. A. Kerr

“Tonight is social, Benedict, and a celebration. She will want her husband with her, to share her success. I know I would.”

  “Okay,” he grumbled. “I’ll ask about her husband.”

  Reeva’s howl of protest interrupted their conversation; the lunch was at an end. The twins were tired and grumpy. Benedict helped Siena to the car and buckled the twins in safely; she kissed him and left for the zoo. They were asleep in seconds, tired from their earlier play. She met her parents and they chatted while the twins slept. Once awake, they spent a wonderful couple of hours enjoying the animals. The twin’s oohing and aahing at every animal they came across. Exhausted, they all returned to the house for some much needed coffee. Siena left her parents with the twins while she changed. The nude dress and shoes she chose were the right balance of smart but stylish. She heard Lizzie arrive and shout out her greeting.

  “Hey,” she called in return as she came downstairs.

  “You look beautiful,” said Lizzie, beaming. Siena saw her looking around the room.

  “Have you seen Tilly?” she asked.

  “No,” said Siena.

  Lizzie’s face fell. “That’s not like her.”

  “I’m sure she’s fine,” said Siena hurriedly. “Lizzie, my parents are giving me a lift can you take over?

  “Of course.”

  Could you distract them?”

  Lizzie’s face broke into a big smile as she saw the twins hurtling towards her. Distracted, they didn’t notice Siena slip out the house and join her parents in their car. Siena was happy to be out this evening. Benedict and she had been remiss with their date nights of late. She was looking forward to some adult company and good food. She was seriously considering returning to work on a steady three days a week basis. Her investment company needed a new venture and Benedict’s remark of a different location for a new family orientated club had motivated her. With the new manager in place to run Harrison’s and Guy running the Braille Club they were finally in a position to expand. She would call her contacts and put some feelers out. The search could be a long one but it was exactly the kind of project Siena enjoyed. Suddenly, she thought of Villa Negra in Marbella. It had been the catalyst that brought them together. Benedict’s work was breath-taking and together they were a great team. A new project would be wonderful for both of them. Siena thanked her parents for the ride and entered Harrison’s with a spring in her step. Her gaze took in her surroundings as she walked through the club. They had done a terrific job, she thought, satisfied. When inside her office, Siena sat for a moment just enjoying the silence. She loved working from home but there was nothing like the buzz of the office.

  A glance at her watch told her she didn’t have much time. Clicking her computer she waited until the password prompt appeared. Entering her code, she went online and searched the ‘for sale’ online property market. She was surprised at the number of suitable properties available and many at reasonable prices. One house in particular caught her eye and she printed the marketing schedule. Yes, it was the right time, she thought. She would begin her search in earnest on Monday. The twins were due to start nursery. Siena both wanted and dreaded it. She knew they were ready for their new challenge and now so was she. Excitement bubbled through her. This was exactly what she needed. Grinning, she rose and went to join her husband.

  Nick

  Nick still couldn’t quite believe he would soon be a free man. His gaze swept the cell that had been his home these last years and he shuddered. He would miss nothing about his time in prison. He knew some prisoners actually enjoyed the experience and the security it offered. Of course, that begged the question...what was their home life like if prison was preferable? The information he had gleamed through his work was impressive. His agent had said there were a number of interested parties should he wish to publish. The only thing that stopped him writing was his hand. Typing was no longer an option. He badly needed voice recognition software. He would remedy that as soon as he was free. Guy Walker was going to pay dearly for what he had done to Nick. The pain in his hand and leg kept him focused. His project was ready. He’d prepared everything on the off chance he would be granted parole. His forward planning and diligence meant he could act straight away, strike while the iron was hot. He’d made the necessary calls. The intel he’d received made him smile, and at last he could put his plan into action.

  Chapter 52

  The Braille Club Undone

  The Braille Club, London. Two Years On. The Swingers Zone Trial. Guy stood rigid. What was he doing? He had proved the zone could work. He needed to make adjustments to meet Braille zone requirements but he had this in hand. There was no reason for him to stay. However, he could not force himself to leave as he watched the fingers slip between her legs.

  Benedict

  Benedict sat in his office feeling pleased with himself. Sasha was by far the best candidate. She had been speechless when he had told her the salary.

  “Sasha, I believe in rewarding the people I select to work with me. Believe me; you will earn your salary.”

  Once she appeared to recover from the shock, she smiled. “I’m looking forward to joining the team.”

  “Welcome to the family, Sasha. Please make use of the facilities today. The Spa has been told to expect you and dinner is booked for six thirty. I’m afraid with twins, my wife and I need our sleep.”

  Sasha smiled and nodded. “I’m afraid my husband will not be joining me, he is out of the country.”

  “Pity,” said Benedict. “Another time perhaps.”

  He didn’t ask Sasha where her husband was or what he did because he knew already. Sasha explained he worked with the army but Benedict knew he was government intelligence. Her background checks were clear. They couldn’t have asked for a more secure manager. Guy could concentrate his full attention on the Braille Club while Sasha took over the reins at Harrison’s. With the meeting concluded they said their goodbyes. Benedict worked on. He missed having Guy around. There was a vacuum caused by his absence, but Benedict knew he was staying at the club which of course was none of his business. Guy worked hard and played hard until recently. Benedict put the change down to the woman in his life. Unlike Sasha, Anna Dunbar had made an impression on Benedict. She oozed a raw sex appeal that few women had. She was beautiful, strong and independent. In fact, both she and Siena shared similar qualities. He could see why Guy was attracted to her but he sensed she would not play second fiddle in his life. He wondered if Guy would make it work.

  His office door opened and Siena stepped inside. As always he was stunned by his wife’s beauty. She looked wonderful; sexy and sophisticated in her dress and heels. He wondered how quickly he could remove them.

  “Well?” asked Siena, interrupting his revere.

  He stood up and moved towards her.

  “Benedict, who got the job?” she asked.

  “Kiss me and I’ll tell you,” he replied hungrily.

  Their passion, always simmering, exploded. Siena broke loose and breathlessly pointed out. “We don’t have time.”

  Reluctantly Benedict let her go. “I chose Sasha,” he said. “She was the best candidate.”

  “Agreed,” said Siena. “She was my choice from the beginning.”

  “Is that why you’re looking so pleased?” asked Benedict.

  “No...I mean yes.” Siena burst out laughing. “I’m happy we have a manager at last and Guy can concentrate solely on the Braille Club. This will free us both for future projects.”

  “I still have an architectural business to run,” said Benedict smiling.

  “I know,” said Siena, “this is something for your architectural business.”

  “What are you up to?” he asked.

  “I’ll tell you later,” Siena smirked.

  “Tell me now,” said Benedict.

  “Later, I promise, but we need to meet Sasha,” said Siena seriously. “First impressions make lasting ones.”

  Benedict reluctantly agreed and they made their w
ay to the restaurant. After introductions with Sasha had been made they settled down to eat. Benedict’s phone vibrated. Surprised, he glanced at the screen. It was Siena’s medical bracelet alert. He frowned.

  “Siena, is your bracelet working okay?”

  He watched Siena glance at her bare wrist and gasp. “I must have left it in the bathroom after my shower. Reeva was playing with it. I meant to get it from her but I was running late.”

  “Siena, your bracelet is not a toy for her,” he said annoyed. “It is a very expensive piece of technology.”

  “I know. I’m sorry,” she said. “Reeva is like a magpie. She is always trying to get at it.”

  He sighed. He and Siena had a system which was very simple. She wore her medical ID bracelet at all times. It transmitted her exact location in case of collapse. This was reassuring for Benedict when Siena was out or alone in the house. If for any reason Siena was unmoving for thirty minutes, Benedict’s phone would alarm. They’d had issues in the beginning. Siena had to remember to put the bracelet into sleep mode at night. She sometimes forgot to put it on after showering and when Benedict had called alarmed, she would calm him and retrieve it. The waterproof version Benedict was waiting on couldn’t arrive soon enough, to avoid this scenario. He felt annoyed with Siena for leaving it at home but then realised something wasn’t right.

  “Why hasn’t it alarmed before now?” asked Benedict, puzzled.

  “I’m not sure,” Siena replied uncertainly.

  The hairs on the back on Benedict’s neck stood up as a chill swept through him. “Sasha, will you excuse me for a second?”

  “Of course,” she smiled.

  Siena gave him a quizzical look. “Let me call Lizzie and ask her to find the bracelet,” he said.

  “Benedict, there really is no need. I’m sure it’s safe.” Siena’s voice had a hint of annoyance. Sasha turned towards her and asked her a question. He took his chance while she was distracted. Getting up from the table, he moved to a quieter location and made the call; the phone at home rang out. Frowning, he redialled. The feeling of unease returned as once again the phone went to answer machine. He left a message for Lizzie to call him back. There was any number of reasons she couldn’t get to the phone. She could be putting the twins to bed, for example. He saw Siena looking at him, irritation clear on her face. He returned to the table conscious of their guest.

  “Answer machine,” he said to Siena quickly.

  “She’s probably busy with the twins,” said Siena dismissively.

  “You’re right,” he said calmly. He felt sure Lizzie would get back to him soon. Ignoring his mounting concern, he engaged Sasha in conversation. He tried to check his watch surreptitiously but Siena caught him. Sasha took that moment to excuse herself and went to the ladies.

  “For Christ’s sake, Benedict,” said Siena angrily. You’re totally distracted and not even paying attention to what we’re saying. It’s so rude.”

  “Lizzie hasn’t called back,” he retorted. “I’m worried.”

  “Call her mobile then,” said Siena, “but you’d better start engaging, Benedict. God knows what Sasha thinks,” she huffed.

  At this moment in time, Benedict didn’t care. Trying to control his panic, he dialled Lizzie’s mobile. She could still be upstairs with the twins, perhaps unable to get to the phone but he knew she carried her mobile on her. Siena’s face was set in an angry frown but soon it changed to concern.

  She mouthed, “Okay?”

  Benedict felt his stomach twist as alarm gripped him. He nodded at Siena, feeling sick as Lizzie’s mobile went to voicemail. Sasha returned smiling brightly at him; he put his mobile down and plastered a smile on his face. His nerves were taught as he struggled to concentrate on her voice. He was desperate for his phone to ring.

  “Do you plan to expand?” asked Sasha.

  “Yes,” said Siena.

  “Not at the moment,” Benedict contradicted her.

  Sasha’s face looked confused. “Okay,” she said uncertainly.

  “Benedict is right,” said Siena smoothly. “We’ve concentrated on our base here in London, however your appointment means that might change.”

  Benedict stared at his wife in surprise.

  “I saw a building today that might be of interest to us.”

  Benedict didn’t hide his annoyance. “Siena, no more shop talk,” he said curtly.

  He saw the flash of anger in her eyes and the look of discomfort in Sasha’s. He was making a mess of things. His words had come out wrong. His anxiety was making him sound harsh and critical. Relief flooded him when his mobile rang. He turned away and was disappointed the caller was not Lizzie, but Guy.

  “I saw the alarm, is there a problem?”

  “It’s not what you think, Siena has left her bracelet at home.” He hesitated.

  “What?” asked Guy.

  “Lizzie isn’t answering my calls.”

  “Okay, I’m on my way. Stay calm. I’m coming now,” said Guy.

  Benedict felt better, then guilty at disturbing Guy. Was he overreacting? He decided to make a second call to his neighbour. When they moved into their home, Benedict had taken the time to brief both sets of neighbours on Siena’s medical condition. As it happened David, their neighbour to the right of their property, was a doctor. He had agreed to be a medical responder should an emergency arise with Siena, and had keys to their house. David answered on the second ring. Benedict quickly explained. David said he would go to the house straight away. Benedict’s bad feeling had turned to genuine fear but the sight of Guy approaching calmed him. When he turned, Siena was behind him.

  “What’s wrong?” she asked anxiously.

  “Lizzie’s not answering her mobile either,” said Benedict tersely. “I’ve called David and he’s going to check the house but I want to get home just in case. You stay here with Sasha and finish your meal.”

  “No, I’m going too,” said Siena.

  “What’s wrong?” said Sasha, she was standing behind Siena.

  “Take over,” said Guy harshly. “We’ve got to leave.”

  “Yes, of course,” said Sasha calmly.

  They left and taking the stairs, sprinted to the underground car park.

  “I’ll drive,” said Guy as they reached his car. “Fill me in.”

  “Lizzie’s not answering her mobile or the landline. My neighbour is going to the house now to check everything is okay. I told him to call me.”

  Guy nodded as they buckled their seat belts. He started the car and quickly left the garage. As Guy negotiated the traffic, Benedict’s mobile rang.

  “I’m at the house,” said David, his voice panicked. “The door was open when I arrived.”

  “What?” said Benedict, shocked. “Is Lizzie there?”

  “There is an unconscious woman on the floor downstairs and a dead cat,” said David but his voice was bordering on panic. Benedict could hear him opening doors like he was searching for something. His heart skipped a beat but he fought to remain calm. “Is she okay?”

  “Her vitals are strong but...”

  Benedict interrupted him “Are the twins still asleep?”

  He got no answer. “David, are you still there? he asked.

  “I’ve searched the house,” said David, breathless. I don’t understand...the twins are gone.”

  Benedict’s heart froze as his brain tried to grasp what David was saying.

  “Gone, what do you mean, gone?”

  “I mean they’re not in their beds or in any of the rooms, they’re gone,” said David dejectedly.

  “I’m on my way,” said Benedict woodenly.

  “Good,” said David. “I’ve called an ambulance and the police. Both should be here shortly.”

  “Thank you, David.” Benedict ended the call and sat staring into space.

  “What’s happened? asked Guy.

  “We need to get there now,” said Benedict urgently.

  The car surged forward as Guy pressed ha
rder on the accelerator.

  “What did David say?” asked Siena, her voice strained.

  “Lizzie has collapsed. He’s with her now.”

  “Collapsed?” said Siena confused. “Is she okay?”

  “David’s with her now. An ambulance is on its way.”

  “Are the twins okay?” asked Siena.

  “Yes,” Benedict lied. He felt Guy’s gaze.

  “Thank, God.” Tears spilled down Siena’s cheeks. “Hurry,” she urged. “They will be frightened without Lizzie.”

  Benedict’s mind was numb. How could the twins be gone? He swallowed trying to calm himself. Suddenly a horrible thought occurred to him and he turned to Guy. “Is Nick Waters still in prison?” he asked quietly.

  “I’ve heard nothing to say otherwise but I can check,” said Guy. “Are you worried he’s out?” he asked. Guy’s phone buzzed and he quickly read the four word text message with mounting horror.

  Benedict: The twins are missing.

  He pressed harder on the accelerator.

  Chapter 53

  The Braille Club Undone

  The Braille Club, London. Two Years On. The Braille Swingers Trial. Guy gasped as her heavy fake breasts were exposed. He remembered the feel of them beneath his fingertips. Naked, she stood staring straight at him. Guy flinched when the hand of the Patron touched her but he couldn’t look away.

  Nick

  Freedom was still a novelty for Nick Waters as he stepped out of prison into the waiting car. His people had been watching Siena for months now. He knew her routine inside out. He had been planning and everything was in place but today was opportunist. To be effective he knew he must strike immediately. This would be his only chance to catch Mr and Mrs Harrison with their guard down. He was sure Guy Walker had an insider at the prison. Nick knew it would be only a matter of hours before his release was known. However, that was all he needed. His contact confirmed Siena and her parents had arrived at the house. The live-in nanny was an irritation, but she had provided him with the perfect way into their home.