Run The Race

By Nancy Bandusky

When Sean Atkins took a stand for Christianity that was just the beginning of the battle. With the persecution of Christians in the United States intensifying, the resistance must take a drastic path. Laws will be broken; lines will be crossed. Amongst the confusion of right and wrong, friends become traitors, secrets are revealed, and a man from the past enters Sean's life with the desire to extinguish the faint beacon that still glows in the United States of America. Lives are turned upside down through deception and betrayal as the resistance begins to turn on itself. At the end of the race, who will be left standing?

This is the second book in the Challenge trilogy set in the present day United States. A romance sub-story line weaves throughout.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Nancy Bandusky
• Release date: Oct 16, 2012
• ISBN: 9781301831050

Book preview

Prologue

- 1945 -

The commandant slammed the phone down on the wooden desk, not caring if it made it to the receiver or not. His assistant came running into the room. Are we leaving, sir?

The commandant growled, Of course, you imbecile. As soon as you finish burning those papers. While the assistant vacated the room, the man opened the top drawer of his desk and retrieved a single piece of paper. Striking a match, he set it ablaze. The list of names. The list of sub-humans. Non-humans. The boss would be angry. The list wasn’t nearly long enough. But there wasn’t time for more.

The assistant raced back into the room. Papers are ashes now, sir.

The commandant smiled at the choice of words.

The two hurried to a black car parked outside. The assistant got behind the wheel. The commandant sat in the back seat and glanced at the compound. The skeleton frames standing at the fence barely appeared human. That was because they weren’t as evolved as he was. He was of the superior race. Oh, if there had only been more time. The work would continue. In the future. It wasn’t over.

The engine roared to life and the assistant headed down the road, going south. If we make it to the border, we should be okay, sir?

We’ll be fine. When the Allies arrive, they’ll be busy dealing with what we’ve left behind. We’ll be able to hide. The man leaned back into his seat and pulled out a cigar. Lifting it to his face, he inhaled deeply the aroma of the rich tobacco. He would get away. The boss had promised.

The boss had more plans for him … and for those inferior humans. The man frowned. Yes, some of them would survive … for now. But eventually the boss’ plan would be accomplished. They would be extinguished. The commandant ground the unlit cigar into the empty seat next to him and smiled.

* * * *

What kind of monster would murder thousands of innocent people? the lieutenant muttered while packing up his gear.

His colonel patted him on the back. Don’t worry, son. We stopped ’em.

The lieutenant shook his head. But what’s going to keep them from doing it again, sir? I heard Auschwitz was even worse.

The colonel looked around at the men dismantling the barracks. Lowering his voice, he said, Once everyone is back home and settled, our group will meet. I’ve been informed we will need to recruit three.

The lieutenant nodded. I heard about Fernando. What a loss. He gave a shake of his head.

It could have been worse, so much worse. The colonel turned to leave but paused. When you’re done here, it’s time for a blanket drill.

Chapter 1

- Present Day -

There was complete silence when the U.S. Marshal pushed Sean up against Jake Paterson’s casket. He patted Sean down and then roughly pulled Sean's hands behind his back and handcuffed him. Sean saw the American flag slipping off Jake's casket. He tried to say something, but the marshal just pushed him again. Sean fell to his knees. The flag slipped completely and fell to the ground in a heap.

Sean hissed, You let the flag fall.

The marshal growled back, That's the least of your problems.

Seeing the man pull his foot back preparing to kick him, Sean braced. The man put his foot back down as a second marshal approached. This second marshal helped Sean to his feet and then walked him silently to a waiting squad car. Sean was helped into the back seat of the car and the second marshal got in after him. There was a county deputy in the front. After the car drove off a second later, the middle-aged marshal introduced himself to Sean. U.S. Marshal Deputy Stephen Darius.

Sean Atkins.

Well, Mr. Atkins. Seems to me you knew what was going to happen today so I'll dispense with the usual what were you thinking speech. You are under arrest for violating federal law, for inflammatory speech attempting to incite others. We are taking you to the county jail where you will be held for bond court. The federal judge will be in this afternoon, so you are in luck there, to set your bond. Deputy Darius proceeded to read Sean his Miranda rights. Then he asked, Do you have any questions?

When can I call my attorney?

After you have been processed. Are you going to make a statement? Often the judge goes easier if you make a statement and admit what you did.

No.

Deputy Darius shifted his long legs, leaned against the door, and grim-faced studied Sean. I didn't think you would.

Twenty minutes later, they arrived at the Kane County jail in Geneva, Illinois. Sean was surprised when the marshal stayed with him during the processing. While he was wiping his fingers after being printed, he asked the marshal why he hadn't just dropped him off with the deputies. The marshal looked around the empty room before replying, Too many of you guys are getting beat up in here. No one is getting hurt on my watch, especially not on Good Friday. He paused. With a second quick glance around, he added, I'll try to make sure you stay out of the general population, but I can't promise.

After the processing was completed, Deputy Darius took Sean to an office. He directed Sean to a seat. Sitting on the opposite side of a desk, the marshal picked up a piece of paper. I have to ask you this. The United States government would be willing to drop all charges if you were to give us the locations of the hidden house churches and names of the people who attend. Would you be willing to do that?

A small smile appeared on Sean’s face. You have got to be joking.

No, here's the form. If you give us the information, we will drop the charges. Deputy Darius held out the paper. When Sean didn't reach for it, Deputy Darius placed it on the desk in front of Sean. Deputy Darius looked Sean in the eyes. Quietly, he said, I didn't think so.

The door to the office opened quickly as a short overweight man stomped inside, holding a file. Deputy Darius rose to his feet. Your Honor, sir. Can I help you with something?

The judge glared at Sean while he looked at the file in his hands. He turned to Deputy Darius. His prints came back. Not only is he a former marine, but he's a special one. Intelligence. Put him in general population until bond court.

With all due respect, your Honor, this is a federal offense and Judge Mallone will be—

The judge cut him off. I've spoken with Judge Mallone. Put him away until bond court this afternoon. The judge glanced at Sean's free wrists. And cuff him now! The judge stormed out of the room.

Deputy Darius reached for his handcuffs. Sean politely held his arms out in front and the marshal handcuffed him. The marshal said, I'm really sorry. We haven't worked all the kinks out of the system yet. I'm going to have to get you in an orange jumper and …

Sean nodded and stood. Don't worry about it. I'm in God's hands. Not yours.

* * * *

Akan DiaBolos finished examining the file, shut it and tossed it to the corner of his large mahogany desk. That assignment was completed. The boss had been impressed. His work was being noticed. He was moving up. Father would be proud. Akan would call and brag later.

There was a knock at his door. His assistant entered only after Akan gave him permission. Akan took pleasure in all aspects of power and control. Not verbalizing anything, Akan gave a look that said both, What? and Why are you wasting my time?

The young man, who made no pretense that he despised Akan, asked, Didn’t you go to law school with a Sean Atkins?

Yes. So what? Akan could feel his blood pressure rise at the mention of the name.

He was just arrested in the States.

Smiling at the surprised look on Akan’s face, the assistant left the office, shutting the door behind him.

Akan leaned back in his chair and exhaled slowly. This day was getting better and better. The boss was more than pleased with his work and now this. Now if Sean would just die. Then the day, or rather night, would be perfect.

* * * *

Sean glanced at the clock on the wall. It was two o'clock. Deputy Darius looked up and then caught Sean’s eyes. He reminded Sean the federal judge should be in bond court by four. Sean had changed into an orange jumper and had just completed his phone call to Frank Wheeler. Hearing Frank’s voice had made the reality of the situation sink in. This was really happening. He was arrested and going into lock-up. The knot in is stomach was growing larger by the second.

A county deputy, his doughy complexion added to the donut-induced belly, strolled over and yanked Sean out of the chair. Silent but with a cocky grin, he motioned for Sean to extend his hands. He undid the handcuffs only to push Sean around, wrench his arms behind his back and recuff him—all in a split second. Sean breathed deeply, trying to ignore the unnecessary roughness and instead focus on restraining his natural inclination to fight back.

Grateful not to be in leg irons, Sean walked down a long corridor with Deputy Darius on one side and the county deputy on the other. They came to a large open area on the other side of a barred door. Sean could see there were about forty men in orange jump suits on the other side of the door. His pace naturally slowed and the county deputy gave him a push closer. The door opened. The county deputy shoved Sean inside without a word. Before the door could clang shut, the U.S. Marshal grabbed Sean's arm and pulled him back into the corridor. He hissed at the county deputy, Gilbraught, remove his cuffs!

The county deputy, laughing, slowly unlocked the handcuffs. Sean turned to the marshal and shook his hand. Then he crossed the threshold into the large room. Sean didn't look back at the deputy or marshal.

Rubbing his wrists unconsciously, Sean looked around the room. There were three solid, puke-green walls and the one wall that was just bars with the door, no windows, two urinals and sinks and five tables and some chairs. Most of the men had glanced at him and then gone back to whatever they had been doing before. Sean avoided staring at the group of five men that were still obviously looking him over.

Sean moved about three feet from the door and leaned against the bars. He stared at the floor four feet out. When three pairs of shoes came into view, Sean looked up. Standing a few feet from him were three men with anger on their faces. Sean avoided making eye contact and tried to move a few feet to his right. Immediately, one of the men came up next to him and blocked his way. Another man stood on Sean's left. Sean looked at the third directly in front of him. He kept looking in the man's eyes while the man pulled back and then punched Sean in the stomach. Standing back up, Sean forced himself to open up his fists. The same man back fisted Sean on the side of the face. Sean was spared a third blow when a voice from the crowd that had started to gather asked what was going on. The fighter replied, Just taking care of one of those Christian dudes. Saw him arrive earlier.

Another voice yelled out, Watch out, he's going to tell us that he loves us.

The fighter asked in a flippant tone, So do you love me, Christian dude?

Sean glared at him. No. He paused. But Jesus does.

The two men on each side of Sean grabbed his arms, holding them tight to the bars. The third man pulled back for another strike. Before he made contact, there was a loud shout from the far corner of the room. Sean saw the crowd part and a Hispanic man in his twenties walked toward him. The man's arms were covered with tattoos. He was about five and half feet tall, but he had a commanding presence as he strolled right up to Sean. What did you say?

Sean looked at the man. I told him that Jesus loves him.

But you said you don't love him. What kind of a Christian are you?

Obviously not a perfect one.

The man stared at Sean for a minute. Then he broke into a smile. I know you, man. I know you. He looked at the two men who were holding Sean's arms. Let him go. The man then looked at the crowd taking the scene in. He shouted, No one touches this man. If you do, you'll answer to me.

Sean didn't hide the surprised look on his face fast enough. The Hispanic leader started to laugh. You don't remember, do you? Man, you are for real. You must do it all the time. You don't even remember me. The leader pushed Sean slightly on his back, directing him to a table. With one look from this leader, the six men at the table got up and ambled away. The man sat down and motioned for Sean to sit. Sean took a seat across the table.

I'm sorry, but do we know each other? Sean asked.

The man continued to laugh while introducing himself as Ricky. So they got you. I wondered about you, man.

Sean stared at Ricky trying to figure out the connection. Ricky stopped laughing and said, I met you back in the fall. Outside the big city park in Naperville. I was working on picking some pockets and you told me to stop. I hassled you to leave me alone because no one cared. You said God cared about me. I told you that if God cared about me, then I would have had something to eat that day.

Sean nodded. Yeah, I gave you twenty bucks.

Ricky interrupted, But I asked you if were doing it because you cared about me. You were honest, not like those hypocritical Christians. You said, ‘How can I care about you, I don't know you. But God cares about you.’ Ricky paused and then started laughing again. I almost forgot. There was this really hot chick. She was calling to you from a car. Did you hook up with her?

Sean smiled, remembering Tamara in Emma's car. Not with her.

Oh, I'm sorry man. She looked like a sure thing. Ricky laughed again.

Sean gave a slight smile. Did you get something to eat?

Sure, man. I had dinner and then breakfast the next day.

Why did you stop them from beating me?

I don't know.

Why did they listen to you?

Man, I run this place!

Sean changed the subject. Have you accepted Jesus as your Savior?

Hey, don't get all religious on me, or the beat-down starts again. Ricky patted Sean on the shoulder. Look, I paid a debt. We're even.

Sean shook his head. No we aren't.

Hey, man. It was only twenty bucks.

No, I owe you.

Ricky lifted his head high and looked down his nose. So what are you going to do for me?

Can you remember ten digits?

Ricky shook his head and frowned. I guess.

After giving Ricky his cellular phone number, Sean said, Jesus used you today, whether you like it or not, to save my life. If you decide you want to know him, call me.

Sean walked to a corner of the room. Bowing his head, he prayed silently. The men nearby moved away. Ricky walked over and quietly said, You keep that up and you’ll make it hard for me to keep you alive. Tell your God I don’t do miracles. Ricky turned and walked away.

* * * *

Emma Simms was surprised she had made it through the luncheon without crying. So many people had come over to her to ask about Sean and she hadn't known anything. She had been so relieved when Frank Wheeler had got the call from him that bond court should be around four. Frank had suggested that they let the people know, but Emma and Sean’s father, Pierce, had said that Sean wouldn't like having so many people there. Frank agreed to keep it quiet.

Pierce asked Frank why Sean was arrested on a federal charge but was taken to a county jail. Frank explained that with so many people arrested on these religious charges the federal courts were crowded and it had been deemed more efficient to have a federal judge come out for a bond hearing. The actual court case would be heard in federal court.

As Frank strolled away, Pierce turned to his future daughter-in-law. Emma, what is the plan for when he is released? Assuming it is today.

Well, Frank will deal with bond court and when Sean’s released he'll drive Sean back to Jake's. I was planning to wait for him there. He gave me a key. Emma paused and then spoke slowly trying not to cry, He specifically told me not to come to court.

Pierce put an arm around Emma's shoulder. I'm sure that's only because if something goes wrong and he isn't released today, seeing you and not going home with you would be too hard on him.

Emma nodded. A few tears fell. Do you think he's okay?

You know Sean. He would tell you that God is in control. But I'm sure we can still pray for him. They both joined hands and prayed quietly together at the empty table.

A few minutes later, Frank joined them, informing them he was heading to bond court. Emma glanced around the room; most of the guests had left. She asked Pierce if he was sure he didn't want to come to Jake's with her.

Pierce looked at her kindly. No, I want to go with Frank. I need to be with my son. But I will see you at the house. Pierce paused for a second and then continued his voice strong, With Sean.

Emma gave Pierce a hug and walked over to Gerald McGrainy. He looked so lonely without his wife, Ginny. They both missed her. Gerald was old enough to be her grandfather and had known Emma for years. She had moved in with him and Ginny when she lost her teaching position. She still referred to her good friend as uncle.

Gerald pulled his six-foot frame out of the chair as she approached. Are you ready to go? she asked. Running a hand through his gray military haircut, Gerald nodded. They both walked over to the Knox family, who had offered to give them and Sean’s sister, Rebecca, a ride.

When Calvin saw her, he asked if it would be all right if his family waited at the house for Sean. Emma smiled at the slender, average height fourth grader who adored Sean. Kneeling to face him, she brushed his brown hair out of his eyes and said, You know what I think Sean would like? He would like for you and your family to come over on Sunday. Why don't you celebrate Easter with us?

Calvin's eyes, behind his wire-rimmed glasses, lit up. Sure! His voice dropped. But can't I see Sean today too?

Calvin's mother, Judy, said, Calvin, Sean’s going to be tired. We need to think of him right now. I think he would rather celebrate our Savior's resurrection with you instead of his getting out of jail. When the group walked toward the car, Judy whispered to Emma, Will you please call us and let us know that he is out and safe? Emma assured her that she would.

* * * *

Frank and Pierce arrived at bond court with a few minutes to spare. They sat on a spectator bench near the back of the room and waited. The regular afternoon bond court was just finishing. Sean was the only federal prisoner brought in. A U.S. Marshal stood at his side.

The bailiff called out, The Honorable Judge Mallone presiding.

Everyone stood and the judge entered the room. After the judge settled his nearing six and a half foot hefty frame in his chair, everyone except Sean and the bailiff sat. The bailiff read the charge against Sean. Sean stood marine straight and stared at the judge.

Judge Mallone, running one hand through his close-cropped white hair, looked at a file and then stared hard at Sean. Mr. Atkins, you are the reason I had to come out here today. You have been offered the opportunity to have these charges dismissed. Is that correct?

Sean stared straight ahead. Yes, your Honor.

And you have declined that opportunity. Is that correct?

Yes, your Honor.

The judge took a breath and slowly exhaled. Mr. Atkins, I'm tired. If you will write a statement as to what happened, I will give you probation with the understanding you will not speak as you spoke today.

Sean looked at the floor and then back at the judge. Your Honor, I plead the fifth. As a result of that plea, I can not agree to speak or not speak as I may have or not spoken today.

Frank jumped to his feet and asked to approach the bench. With a wave of his hand, the judge agreed. Frank glanced at Sean and then looked up at the judge. Your Honor, I would like to remind the court that this is a bond hearing. If charges have been filed against my client, bond needs to be set … now.

The judge raised his voice. Fine, Mr. Atkins. You want to play this out. Go ahead. I promise you will look back on this day wishing you had chosen a different path.

The judge turned to the federal prosecutor who requested a bond amount. The judge spoke loudly in the courtroom, Bond is hereby set at two hundred fifty thousand dollars.

Thank you, your Honor, Sean said.

The judge glared at Sean and Frank. I want to see you two in my chambers right now.

Sean and Frank looked at each other and then followed the judge to a room off to the side of the courtroom. Once inside, the judge moved behind a desk and told the men to take a seat. I tried to get you out of this mess you've created.

Frank asked, Is this off the record, your Honor?

The judge exhaled loudly. Yes! They have you cold. One of the marshals captured Mr. Atkins entire speech on his camera. The judge paused. Did you know someone else recorded it and it has been up on the Internet all afternoon?

The judge looked at Sean. Based on the look on your attorney's face, I would say he didn't know. But you did. You won't have a defense, son. You're a marked man.

Sean calmly asked, Are we still off the record, sir? When the judge nodded, Sean continued, I have no intention of denying what I said. I intend to claim my right to say it. In fact, your Honor, it is my duty to say it.

Judge Mallone stared at Sean, slowly shaking his head.

The Judge dismissed them and they left the chambers. As they walked out, Frank asked Sean who had taped his speech and put it on the Internet. Sean replied, No one you know.

Do you have any other surprises? Frank asked, his tone betraying his annoyance.

None that I can think of.

So how was it?

Really not that bad … but I'd prefer not to go back. Sean said with a slight smile.

* * * *

Sean was taken to a room and allowed to change out of the jumper. He put his marine pants on but just kept his white undershirt on top. He folded his jacket over his arm. He hoped Frank had remembered to get his hat and sword at the gravesite. A deputy gave him some paperwork with his next court date on it. He needed to be at the federal building in Chicago in five weeks. He was then allowed out into the main waiting area of the jail.

* * * *

The only people waiting in the lobby were Frank and Sean's father. Pierce was hurt by the surprised reaction Sean gave him at his being there. First, Pierce wondered what kind of son wouldn't know his father would come and then with sadness he thought what kind of father must he be if his son didn't know he would come.

Sean gave his father a quick hug and they all walked to Frank's minivan.

Inside the van, Sean told about his time in the jail. Both Frank and Pierce were amazed at how the day had gone and that Sean had come through it without a scratch. Pierce filled him in on the luncheon for the guests after the funeral. At Sean's questioning look, Pierce replied, Yes, she is waiting for you back at the house.

Sean leaned back in the seat and looked out the window.

* * * *

Judge Mallone's cellular phone had to ring eight times before he answered it. He was waiting for the clerk to leave his chambers before he picked it up. Hello … Yes, sir … It didn't go as expected … No, he didn't take the deal … Yes, sir. He was put in with the others but … We tried, sir. There were two guys with shanks, but apparently, he actually knew someone in the holding tank and the guy didn't let anyone touch him … Just some degenerate of society. I'm not sure of the connection of the two … Um, sir. We’re going to need some help here. With Powers gone, I’m not really sure of the chain of command. Who I should be reporting to. The phone went dead. Judge Mallone hated the rudeness and not even a thank you or good job.

* * * *

It was almost five thirty when Frank's minivan pulled into Jake's driveway that led to the ranch home in Big Rock. Rebecca was in the kitchen stirring the soup, but Emma had been watching from the living room window for the past hour. She yelled to everyone in the house that they were here and raced outside. She stopped on the walkway as Frank got out of the driver's seat. Frank was about Sean's height, but he had a gut men acquired after marriage and lack of exercise. His brown hair was receding in the front and getting thin everywhere else. Frank smiled at Emma and opened the back door for Pierce to get out. Pierce's hair was completely gray, but except for that he looked like an older version of Sean. A little frail, but still tall and athletic.

Emma's heart fluttered when Sean walked around the back of the minivan toward her. His short hair was so dark it almost looked black. His slightly over six-foot frame was in good shape despite his thirty-nine years. Emma slowly moved toward him. Sean removed his sunglasses. She could see his gray blue eyes looking at her with love.

* * * *

Sean stared at Emma as she walked up to him. He felt like it had been days instead of hours since he had last seen her. She had changed into jeans and a sweatshirt, but her slender shape was still evident. Her long legs brought her to just inches from him. Sean looked into the thirty year old green eyes that sparkled when she was happy; they were radiant now. He tentatively reached out and touched a stray strand of her long brown hair. The setting sun brought out the natural auburn highlights. They looked at each other and then Sean pulled her to him. They kissed.

Pierce and Frank walked to the front door. Pierce finally cleared his throat and Sean and Emma parted. Holding Emma's waist, Sean walked with her to the door. Once inside, Sean was greeted enthusiastically by Rebecca and Gerald. Before everyone started talking, Frank told Sean that he needed to get home, but he'd talk to him soon. Sean walked Frank back out to the car and thanked him again for all his help. Sean returned inside after Frank drove off.

Sean put his stuff down on the couch next to the hat and sword someone had retrieved for him. Emma handed him the condolence book from the funeral. I made sure I got this since you said you wanted it. I think everyone signed it, as best as I can tell. Sean thanked her and put it in the pile with his stuff.

Rebecca hugged her brother again and suggested that they eat. The five went to the dining room table and Sean said grace. The group ate and talked about the funeral. Gerald and Pierce retired to the living room while the other three cleaned up in the kitchen. Sean could see his father talking to Gerald while he wiped off the dining room table but couldn't make out what they were saying.

Rebecca joined her father in the living room. Emma was finishing wiping the counter when Sean returned to the kitchen. How are you really? she asked, her green eyes full of concern.

I'm doing fine. You're here. That's all that matters.

Speaking of that, I need to get Gerald home. The animals need to be fed.

Okay. I'm not doing so fine now. Will you come back tomorrow?

You wouldn’t be able to keep me away, even if you are a former marine captain and fifth degree black belt. Plus, I thought we had already decided that. I'll come over tomorrow afternoon and stay until sometime Sunday. Sean smiled, raising an eyebrow. Laughing, Emma added, I will be staying with Rebecca, Mr. Atkins. Plus, I think with your father here we will have enough chaperones. Oh, by the way, would you please call Calvin. He so wanted to come and see you tonight. He'd be thrilled if you called. I invited his family over for Easter dinner so you can let them know what time.

Sean followed Emma into the living room, where Gerald and she got ready to leave. Going outside, Sean waited until Emma and Gerald were in the car. Sean leaned in through the driver's window. I wanted to thank you for posting my bond, sir.

Gerald’s face showed complete surprise. I didn't post it, Sean. Your dad did.

Sean stood up straight. He stammered some sort of goodbye and walked around the car to give Emma a final kiss. He waved as they drove off.

Sean walked into the house and found Rebecca and his father watching the news. He took his stuff to the den and locked the funeral condolence book in his briefcase. He then strolled outside, down to the split rail fence at the