Stones, Stars and Solutions

By John Chapman and Shelia Chapman

Who are the Sky People and what is the Sky’s Eye? What do they have to do with the ancient document held by the Triplet family since 1099? What is the purpose of the mysterious stone, kept with the document? Why was the document written in thirteen different languages? Does the number thirteen provide a clue? When translated, what is the ultimate power the document speaks of?

Sir Richard and his ‘family’ will begin a quest for the answers. Unfortunately, he and his group aren’t the only ones looking for this ultimate power. His opponents already have a two-day head start. Their journeys will lead them to the cradles of civilisation, but where does their journey start? What will they discover at the end? Why are James and Donna so important to this quest?

What about the situation between Richard and Donna? Is he still lying to her? Did he send the threatening letter? Everyone, including Joyce believes Richard would be the logical choice. Richard swears he didn’t send it, but if he didn’t then who did? Who sought Joyce's help through a mysterious phone call to the mine? Would Joyce regret the choice she made?

Where does Kate fit in? Does she hide a secret of her own? Is Tom an ordinary little boy, or is he special like James and Donna? Why does he know so much about the Dine’é Yá? Who told him? Who is Candice Stuart and what important part will she play in James’s future?

• Language: English
• Publisher: John Chapman
• Release date: Jul 12, 2012
• ISBN: 9781476113579

John Chapman

We started the 'A Vested Interest' series in 2007 and it took over a year before I came up with an ending we were happy with. At 170,000 words A Vested Interest was too long though for a printed book. We cut it heavily but still ended with a 140,000 word book. There was no alternative, we had to split it into a two book series. Doing that, we thought, would allow us to put back some of the content we had cut and expand the second book (Dark Secrets) a little.Well that was the plan. We ended up splitting the second book and making a trilogy by adding 'No Secrets'. The original ending didn't quite fit now so we moved it into a fourth book - Stones, Stars and Solutions.And so it goes on. We are now writing book 10 and 11 of the series. Shelia has written a spin-off 'Blood of the Rainbow' trilogy. Altogether it's 2 million words so far! In terms of time, we've only covered a few months. There is an end in sight but not for another 5,000 years. Maybe I'll get to use my original ending then?About the AuthorsJohn and Shelia Chapman are a husband and wife team who met on Internet and crossed the Atlantic to be together. John, an English ex-science and computer teacher contributed the technology and 'nasty' bits while Shelia drew on her medical experience in the USA and produced the romance. The humour? That came from real life.

Book preview

Chapter 1

How long do we keep this up, Mum? Andrew asked.

As long as it takes. It seems patience is not a virtue that warms your blood.

He smirked. A serpent’s blood runs cold. Ice is a poor companion for fire. The two are on opposite ends of the elemental table.

Yes, but fire often comes from the icy breath of desire.

He exhaled. "The longer we wait, the more likely they are to discover your secret."

She glared at him. "If you wish to remain in my favor, you will abide by my rules. I did not ascend to the heights I enjoy by being hasty with important decisions. The agenda cannot be rushed. The players must reveal their cards before the bluff can be made."

Andrew shook his head and snorted. Why must you be so bloody cryptic?

She held up a hand and selected a number on her phone.

------------

Joyce’s phone rang. So, you are still in the Complex. I thought you were leaving.

Her eyes widened. I, um… I changed my mind.

Really? Did you? I did not realize that was your choice to make. You may double-cross the Inland Revenue Service. You do not double-cross me! You do as I say, or people will die, little girl. People you love. You are not part of this circle. You never will be. Richard can sow all the wild oats with you, he wants. You will not pollute the bloodline! Do you understand?

She frowned. What makes you think I…?

Because, you are stepping into unknown territory, little girl. You are in over your head. You should have stayed with Sam. If you had followed the plan, you would have him. That time has passed. You shall have no one!

Joyce’s heart began to pound. She tightened her jaw. "Who the hell are you? Why do you keep doing this to me? Hello?" She groaned and pressed callback.

This person’s phone has been turned off. Please try later or record a message after the tone.

------------

In answer to your question, a tigress in the bush is far more dangerous, than one lying in the sun with its belly bared to its enemies, she said and put her phone away. The call served its purpose. Fear has been invoked. Now we wait for your cousin to spring the trap.

Andrew laughed. "You know, sometimes you almost fool me, Mum – almost."

------------

Sir Richard exhaled. Ricky, what’s going on?

What do you mean, Dad? Richard countered.

Sir Richard rolled his eyes. "I wasn’t born yesterday. I know you and Joyce have been more than friends. I have no problem with that. Is something else going on, I should know about?"

Good, Richard snorted. I’m glad you don’t have a problem with it, he said with a touch of sarcasm. "Joyce and I have decided to explore our feelings for each other. I guess mine were there all along. With her fancying Sam, I thought she’d always be here. When you told me, she was going back to Australia, I figured if I let her, without taking this chance, I might regret it for the rest of my life. Thanks to my sister and the immortality gene, that could be a long time."

Sir Richard scratched the back of his neck. "So, you admit, you’re romantically interested in Joyce. And… she apparently feels the same or she wouldn’t be here."

Richard smiled. I’d like to think so. She came home with me. We spent the weekend talking and putting her quarters back in order. Dad, I don’t know if this will last, but my relationship with her stands a much better chance than mine and Kate’s. At least at the moment.

"Does that mean you’ve decided not to take my advice and marry Kate?"

No, he drew out.

Sir Richard frowned. What are you going to do, Ricky? Marry Kate and live with Joyce?

No, Dad! he groaned. "Joyce knows I have to marry Kate. She also knows I intend to divorce her as soon as possible."

"And in the meantime, you and Joyce are seeing each other."

Yes, Richard said.

Have you discussed this with Kate and got her opinion on the subject?

No, Dad, he groaned again. "I haven’t even explained things to her. I’m not looking forward to it either. Our last conversation, he broke off and snorted. Well, it was more like a screaming match. I had to beg her to let me explain why we didn’t tell her, the baby she’s carrying was conceived in incest."

Sir Richard leaned forward in his chair. "Ricky… that’s a harsh word. You didn’t know Donna was your half-sister."

"It doesn’t matter how we look at it, Dad. To the world, Rich will be an abomination."

He certainly won’t be to me. I’m looking forward to becoming a grandfather.

Rich won’t be to me either, Richard said, but our views don’t count.

"Ours are the only ones that count. If you’re pursuing a relationship with Joyce, you have to stop beating yourself up. It wouldn’t be fair to you or her. You had no control over the matter."

Richard checked the time. "I’m enjoying our little pep talk Dad, but I have plans."

"One other thing, when do you plan to tell Kate?"

Joyce and I will probably pay her a visit, tonight.

Is that wise? Sir Richard asked.

"I’m trying not to make the same mistakes with Kate that I made with Donna. I think there have been enough secrets in this family, don’t you?"

He sighed and leaned back. "I admire your aspiration of honesty, Ricky, but, sometimes a little white lie makes the truth go down more smoothly. I’m not saying don’t pursue a relationship with Joyce. I’m just saying, be careful. Don’t rub Kate’s nose in it. She’s extremely emotional and vulnerable right now. Besides, don’t you think a subject like this is better discussed among family?"

Maybe… what did you have in mind?

Well, there’s more than one matter to discuss, Sir Richard said. There’s the job of telling Kate, but I need to speak with Jim and Nancy first and find out what they know. When we’re done here, I’ll also speak to Abigail. Maybe she can remember something. Before we tell Kate about her past, I want the facts. Like you said, there have been enough dark secrets in this family.

Richard chuckled. "There’s no doubt about Sam and Kate. We confirmed it – me, Gary, Juanita, and Donna."

And there’s no chance for error or tampering?

Not unless we still have a snitch in the Complex.

Sir Richard exhaled again. "Alright, I’ll speak to you as soon as I’ve talked to Abigail and Kate’s parents."

~ ~ ~

VICi, notify Abigail Kaliea, to come to my office, Sir Richard said.

VICi; Abigail Kaliea has been notified and is on her way.

While he waited, Sir Richard called Jim Nattress and told him he needed to talk to him and his wife. Since he and Nancy, were babysitting Tom, their grandson, Nattress asked if it could wait until tomorrow. Sir Richard told him no and suggested Donna could watch Tom while they talked. Jim said they would be there in a couple of hours.

The door panel chirped. Sir Richard stood. Morning, Abigail, he said and waved her to a chair. Sorry, it took so long. Can I get you something to drink? I was about to have a scotch.

Abigail smiled. No, thank you, Richard. It’s too early in the day, but thanks for the offer. If you’ll remember, I asked you to call me Abby.

He laughed. "I apologize for the oversight, Abby. Our families have experienced a few shocks lately. I fear there are more to come. You said my brother, Matthew, fathered a child with another woman from up north - correct?"

She arched an eyebrow and cocked her head. Yes, she said slowly.

How much do you know about that?

She sighed. Not a lot, I’m afraid.

Do you know if she gave birth?

Yes, to a girl. Let me see. I believe it was in… 1982. In early summer if I remember correctly.

This will sound morbid, but what happened to it? Did the child survive?

No, Richard. I’m sorry, Abigail’s voice darkened. We were told they both died during childbirth. The mother apparently had an unusual blood disorder. She hemorrhaged to death shortly after the baby was born.

Was the child stillborn?

She shook her head. I don’t know.

"Do you know where she gave birth?"

Abigail sighed again. "You’re really taxing my memory now. Let me think. I know it was up north - maybe Hexham. Or was it… Newcastle? Her eyes lit. No wait! It was Morpeth. I remember now. Matthew commented on how unusual that the child should be born away from its mother’s hometown. Yes, that was it – Morpeth."

Sir Richard exhaled. "Abby, what would you say if I told you, I have undeniable proof, the child didn’t die?"

Her eyes widened. I’ll take that scotch now.

Chapter 2

When Jim and Nancy showed up, Donna was waiting for Tom. She took his hand. Let’s drop by the infirmary and see if Uncle Sam’s ready to go to the park.

We’re going to the park? Tom prompted downheartedly.

Donna frowned. "Don’t you wanna go to the park?"

He sighed. Sure, but I’d rather play Uncle Sam’s big piano.

She chuckled. Well, I’m sure if we twisted his arm, he might let you. Do you like music?

Uh huh, but we don’t have a piano in our quarters.

Hmm. We just might have to do something about that.

Tom followed her into the corridor. "Aunt Donna, what’s the infirmary?"

It’s kinda like a hospital where we take care of sick people. If you sweet-talk Uncle Sam, he might let you wear his stethoscope.

Is that the thing that’s real cold that he puts on my chest to listen to my heart?

They entered the infirmary. Yes, it is, she said and led him to a chair outside Sam’s office. You wait here. I’ll see if Uncle Sam is busy.

OK, Aunt Donna, he said, took out his 3DS and played one of his race car games.

~ ~ ~

Donna tapped on the exam room door. Sam, it’s me, are you in there?

Yes, sweetheart, he called out. Be with you in a minute. That should do it, Frank. Next time you close a boot lid be sure your fingers aren’t in it. You might want to change the dressing tomorrow or come by, and we’ll do it for you.

Righto, Frank laughed and pressed the door control. Thanks, doc. Hi, Miss Triplet.

Donna returned his smile. Hi, Frank.

Sam grabbed her wrist and pulled her into the room. He pressed the control, drew her into his arms and kissed her thoroughly. Hi, pretty lady.

She couldn’t resist his soft lips. She moaned and leaned into him. You’re in a good mood today.

Because I spent last night making love to my beautiful fiancée, he said and kissed her again.

One corner of her mouth turned up. So, you enjoyed that – did you?

"Yes, and I intend to enjoy it tonight, and tomorrow night and every night, from now on, for the rest of our ridiculously long lives. He wrapped his arms around Donna’s waist, pressed his body against hers and planted tender kisses behind her ear and down the side of her neck. If you give me a second, I’ll lock this door, and we can…."

She smirked. Oh, no you don’t! There’s a little boy in the waiting area.

Sam’s eyes beamed with pride. Tom?

Yes. He wants to play Uncle Sam’s big piano again.

He arched an eyebrow. I thought we were going to the park.

Your nephew would rather learn another song. She smiled dreamily. Just like his uncle Jared.

Sam laughed at the irony. Whether he married Donna or not, he was part of a real family, now. Then, let’s collect the little guy, and I’ll start grooming the next Beethoven. He kissed her again. VICi, lights out.

------------

Sir Richard offered Jim a scotch. He smiled and thanked him. Nancy, would you like something to drink?

She frowned at her husband for accepting whiskey this early in the day. She pressed her lips into a thin line and shook her head. No thank you, Sir Richard, she said in her slight Northumbrian accent.

Jim, I hope you don’t mind, but I’d like to speak to your wife first. Alone. Is that alright with both of you?

Nattress frowned and glanced at his wife, who nodded. Aye, he said.

I’ll send for you when we’re done, Sir Richard said and motioned to Melissa. Show Jim to the waiting area?

Melissa Hart, Sir Richard’s secretary, smiled. This way, Mr. Nattress.

He grinned. Always a pleasure to be with a bonny lass.

~ ~ ~

Nancy, this is a difficult subject, so I’ll come straight to the point. Was Kate adopted?

Her eyes widened; she frowned. No, Sir Richard. She’s ours. I gave birth to her.

Was Kate born in a hospital?

Yes. I had complications, so I had to go in hospital. You see, we tried to have a baby for a long time. Then, I finally got pregnant. Everything was fine until I went into labor. Kate was a breech birth. I had to have a C-section. She was born at Morpeth Maternity Hospital.

Do you have a copy of her birth certificate?

Nancy slid to the edge of her seat. Yes, I do! she said tersely. "Sir Richard, I don’t understand your sudden interest in my daughter, but I can assure you, Kate is ours."

He studied her eyes. "Are you certain Jim is Kate’s biological father? Is there any chance she could be…?"

She held up a hand. Sir Richard, she cut in, if you’re implying, I….

"I’m not implying anything, Nancy. I have undeniable proof. Jim is not Kate’s father."

She shot to her feet. "I will not sit here and listen to you, accuse me of cheating on my…."

Sir Richard stood. Nancy, please! I know how this sounds, but did you know my younger brother, Matthew Triplet?

She stared at him indignantly and snorted. "I’m not from Northumberland, and I did not rub sheets with your brother!"

I’m not suggesting you did.

Don’t insult my intelligence. How else could he be Kate’s father?

You said you had a C-section. Were you sedated? Do you remember anything about the birth? Sir Richard asked.

Nancy frowned again. "They drugged me, but I remember the hours of agony. I had an odd dream… at least I think it was a dream. It had to be! If it wasn’t, she broke off and shook her head. Anyway, I was upset and crying. I heard them say Kate wasn’t breathing. I raised my head to see what was going on. Someone pushed me back on the pillow. I guess I passed out after that. It must’ve been a dream. When I woke, Kate was there. Jim was rocking her and singing ‘Wor Nanny’s a Mazer’."

He sighed. She was aggravated and he wasn’t getting anywhere. OK, Nancy. I’d like to speak to Jim. Then I’ll speak to you both, again. If you’ll please wait outside. I’ll try to be brief, he said and signaled Melissa, again.

Sir Richard, I don’t understand. What’s this all about? Nancy asked.

Kate had a medical screening, which included a DNA analysis. We do it with all our Complex staff. Her profile indicated Matthew was her father. He paused. I believe you when you say you didn’t know my younger brother. It’s possible that your baby was switched while you were in the hospital.

"Are you suggesting it wasn’t a dream?"

He took a slow breath. "I don’t know. But if Kate is Matthew’s daughter, she has become a wealthy young lady. She owns one-quarter of the Triplet estate."

"Well, that might be nice for Kate, but where’s my baby?"

With your permission, I’ll try to find out.

Nancy sighed. "Nothing will change the way we feel about Kate, Sir Richard. But naturally, I would like to know what happened to our baby. Whether it’s still out there somewhere."

I’ll let you know what I find out.

~ ~ ~

Melissa took the empty tumbler from Nattress and escorted him back inside. What did you talk to me wife about, Sir Richard? She looks as if you knocked the wind out of her.

I have some disturbing news, Jim. We ran a DNA analysis on Kate, a standard procedure for Complex staff. Since Sam is your doctor, we knew your blood group and your wife’s.

Nattress nodded and laughed. No need to drive all the way into Allendale with a good doctor out me back door.

Sir Richard smiled and cleared his throat. "I’ll remember to pass that on to Sam. Getting back to Kate. It turns out the baby you took home from Morpeth Hospital couldn’t possibly have been the child your wife gave birth to. Kate’s biological father was Matthew Triplet, my younger brother. Her mum is an unknown, but it wasn’t Nancy."

Nattress’ eyes widened. His heart began to pound. He slid to the edge of his seat. Does me wife know?

"Nancy’s convinced Kate is your daughter. From the look on your face, this news isn’t surprising."

He shook his head and exhaled. Me Nancy had a Caesarean. She didn’t know anything. Our little lass was stillborn. The doctor told me that me wife couldn’t have any more children. I was sat in the waiting room with me head in me hands, trying hard not to cry. A nurse showed up, holding a baby and sat beside me.

Was Kate that baby? Sir Richard asked.

Aye, he nodded. "I poured me heart out to the nurse. Told her our baby was stillborn and that me wife couldn’t have any more children. She was sympathetic. Told me, the baby she was holding was born a couple of hours ago and was an orphan. The mum was unwed and died - no relatives. The nurse asked me if I would consider taking it home. She didn’t want to see her go to an orphanage or a state home. She said me wife didn’t need to know about the switch."

Sir Richard leaned forward, resting his chin in his palm. And you agreed?

Aye. I got to thinking. Nancy would be heartbroken. And there was all that baby stuff we prepared at home. The room we decorated - the crib and all. It would’ve been like a knife through her heart. And I thought – what’s the harm? The wee lass were alone and needed a good home. I knew we could give her that.

How did you get around the paperwork and records?

Nattress’ eyes hardened. "The bloody doctor appeared out of nowhere. Took off the baby’s bracelet and put one with our name on it. He said he would fettle the records. He made me promise never to tell me wife. Said if it got out, he and the nurse would be for the high jump. The mum, apparently lived long enough to name the child Katherine. Since that was me mother-in-law’s given, I didn’t see any harm in it. I told Nancy we were naming the baby after her mum, so that’s how she became Katherine Hannah."

Do you remember the name of the doctor? Or the nurse?

Not the nurse, but the doctor’s name was Allenson. I don’t recollect his first name, but his surname was Allenson.

His eyes widened. "Robert Allenson?"

It could’ve been, Sir Richard. I’m sorry, but I don’t recollect that part.

"It’s alright, Jim. I don’t think it will make a difference now anyway. So, you admit there’s a possibility, my brother was Kate’s father?"

If one of them DNA tests says it is, then that’ll be the way of it, he said and buried his face in his hands. "How do I tell me wife and daughter? I’ve lied to them all these years."

Sir Richard sighed. "Leave it with me, Jim. Don’t say anything to them. I’ll do an investigation. If the doctor is who I think he is, I know who was behind this. He took a breath. If I can confirm that Kate is Matthew’s daughter, she’s going to be very wealthy."

Nattress looked up, his face lit. What about me falsifying Kate’s birth certificate? If you start digging, won’t that land me in trouble?

"Don’t Worry. You didn’t tell me anything I didn’t already know – got that?"

What do I tell me wife?

"Come on, Jim! Nancy’s worried that you’ll think she had an affair. Tell her you trust her, and you know she wouldn’t do that. I’ve already told her that I’ll sort this out. Tell her not to say anything to Kate - yet."

Sir Richard, I don’t know how to thank you.

He smiled. That’s what comes from being in my position. I can help those who need it. Besides, we’re family now.

------------

Kate frowned. Mum. Dad. What are you doing here? Where’s Tom?

We had some business to attend to. We’re on our way to collect him, Nancy said.

Her eyes widened. Where is he? she asked insistently.

With Donna, Sir Richard’s daughter. Nancy cocked her head. Why?

Kate tightened her jaw. "Why in the hell did you leave him with Donna? I trusted you to look after my son. This is how you honored that trust!" She turned on her heel.

Nattress and Nancy frowned at each other. What’s with the lass? he asked.

------------

Donna answered the door. Hi, Kate, she said and smiled.

Where’s my son? she asked sternly.

Donna frowned and cocked her head. In the lounge, playing the piano with Sam. Kate… what’s wrong?

She pointed her finger in Donna’s face. "Stay away from my son. Don’t ever go near him again! She brushed past her. Tom, it’s time to go. Wait for me in the corridor."

Sam shared a worried glance with Donna. He wants to show you what else I taught him.

Kate rolled her eyes. Fine - show me!

Why don’t you sit, Kate? I’ll make you a cup of herbal tea, or would you prefer a glass of….

"I don’t! she broke off, took a breath and softened her voice. I don’t want anything, thank you. And I’ll stand. Go on, Tom. Show Mommy what you learned so we can go."

Donna frowned again. Sam glanced at her. OK, Tom. I’ll play my part four times. Then, I want you to play the part I showed you. OK?

He smiled. OK, Uncle Sam. Watch, Mommy!

Sam played the lower part of ‘Heart and Soul’ and Tom came in on the higher part. Tom played it perfectly. Sam smiled with pride. Kate’s pride was overshadowed by her dogmatic opinion.

That’s nice, she said. "Now go and wait for Mommy in the corridor. I’ll be there in just a second. Just go and wait outside the door. Mommy needs to talk to Miss Donna, and Uncle Sam," she stressed.

Poor little Tom didn’t understand what was going on. He tucked his chin and left.

Sam put an arm around Donna’s waist. Kate, why are you upset?

"You lied to me about this baby - all of you! You didn’t bother to tell me it was conceived in incest. It must be a relief to you, Donna. Now you don’t have to face the humiliation of knowing you slept with your brother."

Sam’s eyes widened; he leaned forward. Donna forestalled him. Kate, you don’t understand. It wasn’t….

"I do not want to hear your lame excuses about getting pregnant by your brother. I want you, and Sam and Richard, and, she broke off and took a breath. I want all of you Triplets to stay the hell away from me and my son. I’m not sure I want to be part of this anymore. This baby would be better off dead!"

Donna clenched a fist. "How dare you stand there and judge me and my son! You don’t understand the circumstances!"

Sam arched an eyebrow and cleared his throat. Kate – you’ve said enough! I think you should go. I don’t care if you are my sister – get out!

By the way, Kate, Tom hasn’t had lunch yet, I was….

"I can take care of my son, Donna. I don’t need your help!"

Chapter 3

They waited outside Sam and Donna’s quarters. Richard. Joyce. Come in, Sam said. Donna’s in the kitchen making what she calls blond brownies. What would you like to go with them?

Joyce glanced at Richard. Coffee, please, he said.

Joyce?

She smiled. The same, thank you.

Two coffees coming up, Sam said and exited to the kitchen.

Donna put the last of the brownies on a cooling rack. Sam kissed her. They’re here. Are you ready for this?

She loaded the serving tray. "As ready as I’m ever gonna be. I’ll be civil if Joyce is… but I won’t kiss her ass. I’ve given her several opportunities to mend the bridges between us. I’m through. It’s her turn now."

Richard held a brownie to his nose and sniffed. Memories of feelings, he was no longer allowed to feel flashed through his mind. He pushed them aside. I miss these.

Donna smiled and sat on Sam’s knee. He wrapped an arm around her waist. You’re welcome to come and have them with us anytime you want, she said.

Richard noticed his sister’s red, puffy eyes. Has Donna been crying? Thanks, I might take you up on that.

Sam set his cup on the coffee table. "Joyce… I understand why you’re here, but I’m puzzled, why you’re here, Richard."

We wanted to tell you before you heard it from someone else. Now that you and Donna are together, we’ve decided to explore our feelings for each other.

Donna and Sam shared a knowing glance. She studied Joyce’s eyes and turned her attention to Richard. Have you, now? she prompted with a touch of sarcasm. "Then, your friendship wasn’t platonic after all."

Richard frowned and held Joyce’s hand. You could say that.

Sam snorted. "So, you’re not marrying my sister. After what she did to Donna, I don’t blame you."

Joyce’s eyebrows shot up. "Your sister!"

Richard held up a hand. Just a second. What do you mean, Sam? What did Kate do?

"She knows Donna’s your sister. Kate’s mad at all of us for not telling her. She doesn’t want Tom near us again. I think she’s considering having an abortion. My sister said some unkind things to Donna, and I threw her out."

Richard’s eyes widened; his heart began to pound. He clenched a fist at his side. Kate said she would have an abortion?

Sam sighed. "She didn’t come right out and say it, but she said the baby was better off dead."

I’m sorry, Donna, Richard said; his expression hardened. This was my fault. I should’ve told Kate.

Don’t be silly, Donna said and snorted. It wasn’t your fault. When did she find out?

Never mind, Richard waved it off. It doesn’t matter.

Now that she knows, Kate has to be told the truth before she makes the same mistake I did.

Donna cocked her head. What mistake, Joyce?

I didn’t know why Richard divorced you.

Donna glanced at him. But you do now?

Richard cleared his throat. I, um… I told her, pet. I don’t want to keep secrets from her. He turned. I was going to take you with me tonight, to see Kate, and explain things. Now, I think I better go alone.

I agree, Sam said. "Kate is not receptive, right now. She doesn’t want to have anything to do with us Triplets. She pissed me off. If anything, I said soaked in, she knows I’m her brother."

Joyce frowned. You didn’t tell me you had a sister.

Um, that’s something I hadn’t got round to telling you, Richard said and cleared his throat again. Sam and Kate are half-brother and sister, too. We found out a few days ago.

Kate and I had the same father, Matthew Triplet, Sam said.

Her lips parted. You’re a….

Triplet, he said and smirked.

Joyce shook her head. OK, now I’m really confused. Who’s Matthew Triplet?

Richard sighed. "He was my uncle, Dad’s younger brother."

Joyce glanced at Sam. That would mean you and he are….

"Cousins," Richard and Sam said simultaneously.

"Things were already complicated. If what you said registered, Kate might refuse to talk to me now."

Sam snorted. "I’m sorry I made things worse for you, Richard, but I wasn’t going to let Kate, or anyone else talk to Donna like that. Ironically, I’ve always wanted a sister. Now that I have one, I don’t particularly like her."

Joyce exhaled and shook her head. You Triplets lead a complicated life.

Sam laughed. "I suppose that’s a privilege of being a Triplet. Too bad we didn’t come with manuals. He paused and exhaled. Now, what did you want to talk to us about?"

Joyce swallowed the lump in her throat and glanced at Richard. "I guess that’s my cue. Sam. Donna. I’m sorry for my behavior. I said some harsh things to both of you. I wish I could, but I can’t take them back."

Donna shared a glance with Sam. I understand part of the reason why you were upset. Believe me. I can sympathize with you. I wouldn’t wanna watch someone take Sam away from me either.

Sam smiled. Don’t worry, sweetheart. I’m broken.

"Trust me, you’re not broken," Donna said and kissed him.

It still doesn’t excuse the way I treated you, Joyce said.

Sam smiled. No, it doesn’t, but we all make mistakes, he said and winked at Donna. I guess you want your old job back?

"If you still want me to be your nurse and if you can forgive me."

He gave Donna a quick squeeze. She glanced at them sidelong, unconvinced his apology was genuine. I don’t know, Joyce, Sam said. I mean, a man can forgive a woman so many times before he expects something in return. If you follow me upstairs, I’m sure we can work something out.

Joyce tightened her jaw. Richard smirked. You know what, Sam? Take your job and….

"Crikey! he said and grinned. I was kidding, Joyce."

Donna arched an eyebrow. Are we calling a truce, too?

She softly smiled. I’d like for us to be friends, Joyce said imploringly.

"So, would I," Richard said.

I’d like to point out, for the record, you threw the first punch. You’ve had it in for me since day one.

"I know, Donna, and I’m sorry. I truly am. I jumped to the wrong conclusions about everything. Can you forgive me?"

Richard held his breath. Donna glanced at him and sighed. Sure, Joyce. For my brother’s sake.

------------

Richard walked Joyce home and went to Kate’s quarters. He pushed the door panel and waited. She frowned; her eyes hardened. Go away! she said in an icy voice. He glanced sidelong at her hand on the control. If he made a move, she would close it in his face. He stepped back so she didn’t feel threatened.

Kate, please. You promised to let me explain.

She glared at him. "I don’t have anything to say to you!"

You don’t understand the circumstances. You had no right to talk to Donna that way.

I know she’s your sister. I know you married her, and now your incestuous baby is inside me. That’s all I need to know. Now, kindly leave us alone.

Kate, we didn’t know. You have no idea how I felt when I found out my wife was my half-sister.

And what makes you think I would believe anything you say? You lied to me. I think the best thing for me to do is go back where I came from.

What? His eyes widened; his heart began to pound. Back to New Zealand. Kate, you can’t!

Goodbye, Richard, she said and closed the door.

He groaned and pushed the panel again. "Kate, you have to let me explain. I’m not trying to prevent you from going back to New Zealand. You can’t go back. If you try to leave, she’ll come after you."

Leave, Richard! she shouted through the door.

He forced his breath out. Oh, for the love of - Kate – look! I’m coming in. We’re going to talk about this one way or the other. VICi, override door panel lock on Kate Thundercloud’s quarters. Authorization, Richard Triplet, code RT1B.

Chapter 4

Kate stepped back. "I should’ve known a locked door wouldn’t mean anything to you. Can you get into anyone’s quarters like that?

If I need to, but I don’t often make a habit of it, Richard said.

And I guess if I called security or asked you to leave that wouldn’t make a difference either, would it?

He smirked. Not a lot. I didn’t want to barge in like this, but you left me no choice. I have to explain things to you….

Sir Richard appeared in the doorway. "No, you don’t, but I do."

Kate turned her steely stare on him. Is this where you tell me how things go or else? she asked with a touch of sarcasm.

It’s where you find out the truth. You need to understand how we were all manipulated and why.

She frowned. Manipulated! By whom?

Lady Triplet… or at least one of them.

One of them! I don’t understand.

"Then, let’s sit and I’ll explain, but remember, this is a secret in our family, he said. And you’ll notice, I said our. Like it or not, you’re part of the Triplet family."

Not yet, she said. I’m not sure I ever will be!

Richard softly smiled. I’m afraid you’re more involved than you realize.

Sir Richard glanced at him and sighed. Kate, just listen. A thousand years ago, the Triplet family was involved in the first crusade. When they entered Jerusalem, after its fall, Sir William Triplet discovered some documents from the Library of Alexandria. They explained how the Pharaohs of Egypt kept their bloodlines strong, by breeding siblings. They solved the problem of genetic birth defects at a time when there was no concept of the science.

I’m not interested in a fucking history lesson!

He held up a hand and frowned. Patience, Kate. By breeding half-siblings every third generation, Sir William learned a particular trait could be strengthened and maintained.

Incest has been going on since the Crusades? That’s disgusting!

Horse breeders have done it for years. We did it with people.

"Horse breeders destroy faulty bloodlines," Kate said in a condescending voice.

Sir Richard nodded. Yes, but the trait we tried to preserve is the AVPR1a gene, the ruthless gene. Killing a child with birth defects was not an issue for a first-generation Triplet. My father was one. He married his first cousin, the daughter of his aunt, Lady Triplet, my mum. She was also a first generation. The more we’ve researched, the more we’ve discovered how ruthless she was in manipulating my brother and me.

"I still don’t see what any of this has to do with me or my son."

He held up a hand again and softly smiled. I was getting to that, sunshine.

Kate forced the air from her lungs.

Back in January 1982, my younger brother, Matthew Triplet, was engaged to Hannah Louise Wilson. Another prearranged marriage of convenience, you might say. Matthew had a relationship with Hannah but didn’t think they had a future together. He’d already met Abigail Wricker. My brother joined the army to get away from the pressure my mum put on him. During the Argentinean conflict in the Falklands, he was captured and held as a POW.

"You told me Uncle Matthew was killed," Richard said.

"Yes. We were told that he died in an accident when they transferred him from one camp to another. Until Abigail set me straight, that’s what I believed too. All he got out of the accident was a few scrapes and bruises. His driver was killed. Matthew bribed a guard to let him switch places with the driver. They came up with a plan, put Matthew’s dog tags on the driver and burned the truck. His body was charred beyond recognition. My brother left Argentina and married Abigail. They had a child – Sam Kaliea."

Kate snorted. What soap are you getting this from?

"Sadly, I’m not. Until recently, we didn’t know that Hannah Wilson was pregnant. She gave birth to a daughter, in Morpeth, on 3 May 1982. Hannah died shortly after the birth, leaving her daughter orphan. On that same day, Nancy Nattress gave birth to a little girl too, but the child was stillborn. The doctor turned out to be my mum’s private GP. Lady Triplet arranged for the babies to be switched. You’re my niece, Sam’s half-sister, and Richard’s first cousin."

Kate’s eyes widened; her face paled. She covered her mouth and ran for the downstairs bathroom. I’ll check on her, Richard said.

Sir Richard nodded. I’ll make her some tea.

Make it ginger. It’s good for stress or so Sam says.

~ ~ ~

Richard knelt beside Kate and wiped her forehead with a cool washcloth. "I’m so sorry you got mixed up in this. I’m sorry any of us got mixed up in it. The sad truth is, like it or not, this is our life. The only way we can survive is to deal with it together - as a family." He pulled her to her feet.

We can’t get married, she said plainly. If we do, the cycle will continue. She sighed and shook her head. I need to check on Tom. He’s upstairs, having a nap. All this noise is going to wake him.

Let me get you back to the settee. There’s more to the story. I’ll check on Tom.

She exhaled. I don’t know how much more I can handle.

He brushed the back of his fingers down her temple. "I know, but to understand, you need to hear it all. Through secrecy, the cycle will continue." He disappeared upstairs.

Are you feeling up to more, now? Sir Richard asked and handed her a cup of ginger tea.

Not really, but, her voice trailed off.

Richard sat beside her. Tom’s fine. He’s fast asleep.

Sir Richard took a slow breath. "OK, here goes. In 1981, I was engaged to Martha Allen, Richard’s mum. It was much the same as the situation between Matthew and your mum. Lady Triplet sent me to Cambridge to give a lecture on business practices. I wasn’t keen on going, but at that time, she was CEO of Triplet International. While I was there, one of my mum’s friends introduced me to a young woman from America, who was on an advanced photography exchange course. We were instantly attracted to one another."

Kate frowned. Let me guess. That was Marie, Donna’s mum.

Yes, Sir Richard smiled. "I stayed for a week. By that time, I had decided to keep seeing Marie and end my relationship with Martha. I got two phone calls. One from Martha, telling me she was pregnant, and one from my mum. Lady Triplet was furious. Apparently, Martha rang her first. Mum insisted I come back and do the right thing, marry Martha. Mum knew, I’d spent time with Marie, and told me in no uncertain terms, if I continued to see her, something unpleasant would happen. Knowing her nature, I knew she wasn’t bluffing. I came back and married Martha."

What kind of monster is your mum? How could she do this to her own children?

"Oh, it gets worse. Despite that I married Martha, Marie and I kept in touch. Over the next three years, we saw each other as often as possible. One day, for no reason, Marie told me she’d had enough. She asked me to choose between her and my son, which infuriated me. I could’ve chosen between Marie