by Philip Bond
The drunks walk past, ignoring the trio.
Sanders relaxes, turning back to Harry and Matt.
Overlooking the scene, a voice barks… “Now,” four, six, nine gunshots shout in the night. Squads of helmeted armed police descend upon area.
Instantly, Matt grabs Harry, shielding her for any bullets. Harry crumples in disbelief into his arms. Both are unharmed.
Desperate, Matt pleads… “Tell me you’re okay?”
She’s gripped by a chill… “Yes, you?”
Matt turns to look back; Sanders is lying on the ground, the back of his overcoat peppered with holes as blood pools underneath his still body… “So, I do not think this man troubles you again.” It’s Polizeioberkommissar Zech… “In the cathedral is he. Kill you both we think, until your marriage foils the planning.”
“Arndt,” she’s shivering… “I don’t know what to say.”
“There is nothing to say,” Birgit steps into the fold… “Your television report changes everything.” She holds out her hand… “Harry, we win.”
Harry looks at the lifeless body… “This time.”
*
Germans Bust Sex-Smuggling Ring
He’s reading the Agence France-Presse news release aloud.
“Israeli authorities detain Helmut Sperling, pending Staatsanwaltschaf arrival to extradite him back to Germany.”
“German police said Friday they smashed a major international human trafficking ring allegedly dealing in drugs, prostitution, extortion and money laundering. Wrapping up a nearly five-year probe, investigators captured 21 suspects believed to be involved in a network smuggling women, coerced into the sex trade into Germany and managing an underworld empire. In raids in five cities, police seized €43,000 ($56,000) in cash and froze €430,000 in various bank accounts. More than 340 officers searched 51 homes and offices, following up leads collected since 2000. Tougher human trafficking laws go into force Saturday in Germany to bring the country in line with new United Nations and European Union guidelines, introducing tougher penalties and aid for victims to seek justice.” Looking up with pride… “We did it, babe; we did it.”
“Yes, we did,” she’s not matching the enthusiasm, instead offering… “Matt, honey, there’s something I have to tell you.”
Knowing her moods, her facial language, his face exhibits apprehension… “What’s the matter, babe?”
“Matt, honey, I’m pregnant.”
Ende
