HARMED - Book 2: Seconds From Revenge

by Dr L. Jan Eira

  His disgust with the place was probably the main reason why Detective Mills, usually an exceedingly observant man, failed to recognize one of the prison guards who passed a few inches from him. The man was dressed in the typical blue uniform, his nametag proclaiming him to be Jimmy Nutley. As the two passed each other, Lagrange looked away to avoid detection when he himself noticed the Evansville detective. At that precise moment, Officer Jimmy Nutley, a.k.a. Simon Lagrange, felt his heart fall to his stomach, and the color drained from his face. The feeling faded away quickly as he noticed that the detective hadn’t recognized him. He stopped for a second and then looked back at the retreating detective, who he knew was on the hunt for him. Simon Lagrange smirked and kept on walking.

  “That was a close one,” he whispered.

  CHAPTER 33

  Jack Norris was in his office working fast to continue to identify all the patients who might have been contacted by Kate or Lagrange.

  He heard a knock on his open door. It was Agent Cesar Madera. He entered the office and sat down. He looked at his notebook.

  “Do you know a Lance Lantz? He works here in the lab.”

  “I know of him. Why?” said Jack.

  “He came close to breaking my cover when all this was going down. We had to take him into custody for a little while, but he’s back to work.” Cesar shook his head. “Poor guy peed all over his pants in my van. Can’t get rid of the stench.”

  “That’s what happens when you go around snagging innocent people,” said Jack.

  “Innocent? He’s been stalking and taking pictures of your nurse, Kate Fanning. I need to inform her of this and see if she wants to press charges.”

  “Let me guess, you scared the piss out of him,” said Jack, a smile forming on his face. “Now you’re complaining about it.”

  “Yeah, I guess that’s about right.”

  Jack’s smile dissipated. “Got some news for me?”

  “The FBI lab analysis determined that the bomb in your airplane was the same material used in the killings of three years ago.”

  Jack nodded his head. “Rat Poison?”

  “Yes.”

  “Does that mean he is able to manufacture more material?” said Jack.

  “The stuff was weakened and old,” said Cesar. “We think this is the last of the material he’s had for the last three years. It’s our feeling that he’s no longer able to manufacture the materials, which is great news for us.”

  “What about the bombs in the barn?”

  Cesar shook his head. “Those were conventional explosives. No Rat Poison there.”

  “Did you find anything interesting in the barn?” said Jack.

  “No. It was burned to the ground.”

  “Any clues as to where Lagrange might be hiding?”

  “No. Everybody’s looking for him. But so far, no luck.”

  CHAPTER 34

  The sun peeked over the horizon, illuminating the east part of the compound. Outside the scattered buildings, all was quiet except for the slight noise created by the wind from the southwest. Inside the large federal penitentiary, the morning buzz was beginning. The morning bell rang, signaling that it was time to get up, clean up, and prepare for chow. At breakfast, the food was fetched in an orderly line, while little talking was permitted. Once the inmates were seated at the long table, the guards gestured that conversation could resume. The decibels in the air rose appreciably.

  The Terre Haute High Security Federal Correction Complex was a huge place full of bureaucracy. Contriving a plan to become part of the staff, however, was actually easier than to infiltrate the Newton Memorial Hospital security force, in part because at the latter, a directorship was necessary. At the correctional facility, a grunt position was desirable to accomplish the project.

  Officer Jimmy Nutley entered the laundry room, where several machines churned away noisily. He looked side to side and saw only one inmate.

  “Hey, you, Ganz. Over here, on the double,” spat the guard, getting the prisoner’s attention. Ganz was tossing clean towels into a dryer. The area was steamy but deserted, save for the two men.

  “Papa. It is you,” Ganz grinned poignantly. “You came. As you promised.” His voice was a quiet monotone. His first instinct had been to run over to the newly arrived man for a long hug, but the effort was quickly arrested. He knew there were cameras everywhere. It would be important for it to appear to a potential viewer that the guard was speaking of chores to be done or chastising him. That the father and son longed for each other’s company and had much catching up to do was to remain concealed.

  “I don’t have much time, Ganzo,” said Lagrange. “Listen carefully. Memorize my instructions precisely.”

  The two conversed for several minutes. Every few seconds, shifty eyes would wander side to side, indiscernibly looking for potential hidden ears. Lagrange nonchalantly walked around the room as he continued to speak, while Ganz soaked it all in, the information etched deeply into his brain.

  “Merci, Papa,” said Ganz in perfect French.

  “Remember all my lessons, Ganzo. Know your prey. Know your enemy. What time they get out of bed. What they have for breakfast. The route to work. The favorite food and drink. Everything. This takes time and patience. Lots of patience. Drive by their home many times until you know all about them. Work with them, side by side. Watch them. See how they interact with their habitat. Their companions and coworkers. Observe. Take notes. All this may become useful as you carry out your missions.”

  “We’ll be together soon, Papa.”

  “Remember these numbers: nine-one-four-two-three-zero-zero. Got it?”

  “Yes, Papa. I got it.” Ganz strived to remain emotionless outwardly, but inwardly, he was dying to show his devotion and admiration for his father. But he mustn’t.

  “Au revoir, Michel,” said the guard in French. “See you soon,” he reiterated, now in perfect English, as he exited the room.

  He would finish his shift on the opposite side of the prison, ensuring that the two would not meet again. He would later drive home and put his letter of resignation in the mail, invoking health reasons to relinquish his newly appointed position as a prison guard. Simon Lagrange was pleased. This portion of the mission was executed without a hitch.

  CHAPTER 35

  The two lovebirds sat opposite each other at their favorite table in their favorite restaurant.

  Kate looked deeply into Frank’s eyes. “Are you sure you understand why I had to break up with you?”

  “I do. I do. I wish you had trusted me, but I also see that you didn’t want to involve me and jeopardize Amelia.”

  “It’s not a matter of trust at all, Frank,” said Kate. “It was a matter of putting you in danger and yes, jeopardizing Amelia’s safety.”

  “I know, Kate. But it’s all over now. We have Amelia back and—”

  “It won’t be over until Simon Lagrange is behind bars.” Kate’s words were gruff. “Or dead.” She took a deep breath and then smiled. “I’m sorry, Frank. This is so upsetting to me. I need to let it go.”

  “And you will.” Frank smiled. “With my help, this time.”

  “Simon Lagrange is on the FBI’s Most Wanted List.”

  “I’ve seen him on TV many times. He’s been in the news. Do you think he’ll return to Evansville?”

  “I hope not, for his own good. I’ll strangle his neck. I’ll shoot him dead.” Kate’s demeanor changed again from Nurse Jekyll to Ms. Hyde as the terror inside began to percolate once again. She took a deep breath and smiled at Frank. “So, the wedding’s still on, right?” She managed to put on a happy face.

  “Are you kidding? I can’t wait to wear your ring, sweetheart.”

  “Are you ready to order?” inquired the server approaching the table.

  The couple had a scrumptious meal and then drove to Frank’s apar
tment. The time they spent apart and the excitement of the last several days had made them yearn for each other. Finally alone, Frank locked the front door. He took off his jacket and threw it on a nearby couch. Her desire expanding by each tick of the clock, she grabbed his tie and pulled him toward her. Hurriedly, he unbuttoned her sweater. He searched and then swiftly unfastened her zipper. Her dress fell at her feet, and she stood facing him. She unbuttoned his shirt and then his trousers. All undergarments were gently and slowly removed, and soon the couple stood naked, kissing, touching, caressing. Frank carried Kate to the bedroom and placed her gently on the bed. Tender kisses were exchanged, accentuated by erotic gentle massages and embraces, and soon he was on top of her.

  • • •

  Several miles away, Jack sat on his couch conversing with Claire on the phone.

  “Nick’s in bed,” said Claire. “He’s having a great time with his cousin. They play constantly and are getting along famously.”

  “All’s quiet here, too,” said Jack. He got up and looked out his window. He saw the police car and the two officers sitting inside it. He returned to the couch.

  “Wish we could come home already. We both miss you terribly.”

  “Are you nervous about Simon Lagrange?” Jack asked.

  “I will be until he’s apprehended.”

  “Me, too.”

  Jack heard Claire sigh. “But life goes on, and we must continue with our lives. We trust in the police. I know everything is being done to put him behind bars,” said Claire.

  “We can’t think too much about it.”

  “Do you think he changed appearances again? Moved away? Maybe out of the country? Where would he go?”

  “I don’t know,” said Jack. “He’s got connections in France, so if he leaves the country, he would probably end up there. But I can’t help but think this is not over yet. He’ll want to finish the job and get his pound of flesh. His revenge.”

  “Why wait, though? Is he letting things cool off to catch us off guard again?”

  “Yes. I’m sure he is.” Jack took a sip of wine. “Next time he comes around, I’ll kill him.”

  “Do you really think you could kill someone, Jack?”

  “I know I could kill him. In a heartbeat,” he said, rancor in his words.

  The wounds of late had penetrated the scars of years back. And the healing would not begin until the ordeal was over.

  CHAPTER 36

  Simon Lagrange closed the door behind him as he exited the small room. Over the door, a label read Men’s Dressing Room. He was wearing green scrubs. A tag over his left breast displayed a hospital’s logo, Clarian Health System, and stated Chad Kingston, RN. Also displayed was a young man’s picture, which clearly did not resemble the bearer. With some bodily discomfort, Simon Lagrange moseyed down the hall slowly. He walked by a window and paused. Outside in the distance, large spotlights overhead dumped illumination on a group of young boys playing soccer. Moms, dads, and grandparents rooted them on with spectacular fanfare. Mesmerized by the hullabaloo, Lagrange allowed his mind to wander and mix with the brilliant lights. The past came into being.

  • • •

  “Kick the ball, Ganzo. Kick it now,” shouted the Lagrange of years past. He was in his thirties and portly. At his side, another man in his twenties sat on the bleachers.

  “You’re such a dad, Simon,” said Ian Rupert, a thin man with thick dark brown hair. He was wearing a suit, distinguishing him from all the others.

  “I can’t help myself,” said Lagrange. “When do you go back to school?”

  “Mid-August. I’m loving med school. I love to discover. I love to learn.”

  “What kind of doctor do you want to be when you grow up?”

  “I don’t know yet,” said Rupert. “I just know I don’t want to work primarily with people. I don’t like people. They can be disgusting. And demanding. Maybe radiology. Or pathology.”

  “Get there, Michel. Run faster,” barked Lagrange, now on his feet, yelling toward the soccer field. “Sorry,” he said when the play was over. He sat back down. “How about research?”

  “What?” asked Rupert.

  “Research,” said Lagrange. “What about doing research when you finish medical school?”

  • • •

  A group of residents walked by the contemplative older Lagrange, bringing him temporarily back to the here and now. Clueless, the bunch walked rapidly and conversed thunderously, occasional bursts of laughter accentuating the banter. The cluster passed by, and Lagrange resumed his slow walk, holding on to the walls. The corridor was again deserted and silent. His mind drifted back in time once again.

  • • •

  “Do you promise to uphold the laws of the United States of America and its constitution to the best of your ability?”

  “I do,” stated the whole group in unison, each person’s right hand up in the air. The answer essentially ended the ceremony whereby the new FBI agents were now sworn in. Applause grew from the audience.

  “Are you proud of him?” asked Rupert, now older. He wore a suit, his hair impeccably combed.

  “I’m so proud of my little Ganzo,” said Lagrange. “I’m proud of you, too, Ian.” Lagrange clapped and looked up on stage at his son who stood among the group of new FBI recruits. Lagrange was now in his forties. He had gained more weight, causing him to move slower. “When do you start your new job?”

  “I start this July.”

  “What will you be doing exactly?” said Lagrange.

  “It’s a research position in Indianapolis. Indiana University. I’ll be the head of cardiovascular research. You should move there with me. It’s a nice city.”

  “You’ll be the head of the whole department in no time. I know you, Ian. Mark my words.” Lagrange smiled. “Michel, too. He’ll go up the ladder of ranks in the FBI quickly. Just like I did when I first started in the French Secret Police.”

  “You haven’t told me much about your previous life in France,” said Rupert. “Tell me more.”

  “I started when I was Michel’s age. Within five years, I was a captain. That’s when I was handpicked to come to the United States to become the head of security at the French Consulate here in Washington. It was a big step up from being a demolition man. I went from being a bomb expert to babysitter of a whole bunch of diplomats. But I took to the new job as if I had been at it all my life.” Lagrange put his hands on his knees. “Now, I’m tired. I’ve been doing this for far too long. Maybe I’ll go into research. Cardiovascular research. With you, huh?” The two smiled.

  Mike Ganz approached the two, interrupting the conversation. Long hugs between the three men followed.

  • • •

  A smile still on his face, Lagrange continued to walk slowly down the hospital hall. He reached an elevator and pushed the Down button. While waiting, Simon’s mind wandered back in time again.

  • • •

  “I’m working on a drug to help patients with heart failure,” said Rupert, the sign on his desk proudly proclaiming he was now the head of research at Newton Memorial Hospital.

  “What’s the drug called, Ian?” said Lagrange, sitting comfortably and sipping from a coffee mug. Lagrange was now in his late fifties. He looked to be older, given his significant weight gain.

  “It doesn’t have a name yet,” said Rupert. “We refer to it as L-F-J-six-five-nine.” Rupert smiled. “I’ve done all the benchwork on cell preps, and it looks great. I’m about to begin research on rats. Once that’s done, we’ll go on to the human phase.”

  “I’ve read all the papers you’ve written. Your dad would be proud of you, too.” Simon wiped a tear from his eye. “Your dad was my best friend. The best partner I ever had.”

  “You’re not responsible for his death, Simon. Don’t blame yourself,” said Rupert.

  “I was
the one who told him to enter the building from the rear while I entered from the front. The explosion was—” the words choked Lagrange’s throat.

  “It wasn’t your fault. And you’ve become a great dad to me. You’ve done more for me than he ever did. He was always so busy. You always had time for me and Michael. I’m forever grateful to you.” Rupert grinned and then took a deep breath. “I have a job for you. Here in Evansville. My research-lab director just retired, and I want you to take over that position. I’ll teach you everything you need to do. You can help me with the new drug. I have high hopes for it. I think it’ll help many patients feel better and live longer. What do you say?”

  “I retired from law enforcement,” said Lagrange. “Now I need something new to do. Start a new chapter in my life.”

  Rupert smiled and extended his right hand. Both men shook hands.

  “I’ve changed my name. I don’t want my previous identity to linger on. There are a lot of bad guys still looking for me.”

  “What should I call you from now on?”

  “Simon Lagrange is dead. My new name is William James.”

  • • •

  The elevator descended slowly to the basement, and the door opened. Lagrange shook his head, trying to shake off his contemplation. He needed to be focused for this step of his plan. He shuffled out of the car and proceeded down the hall.

  Because of you, Dr. Jack Norris, my flesh and blood, my Ganzo’s in jail. He felt his jaw muscles tighten. My adopted son, Dr. Ian Rupert, is dead. His eyes welled up with tears. For that, you will pay, Jack Norris. I will ruin you forever. I will get my revenge.

  He reached his destination. A sign on a door read Pathology Laboratory. He stood up straight and walked in. The door closed behind him.