Irish Justice: Book 1

By CJ Day

JORDON O’CONNER was a child protégé who ran marathons, wrote famous novels, painted beautiful pictures and was well known as a strategist and a genius. With a mind like a trap and a body that was well trained in martial arts, her photographic memory made her a dangerous the perfect subject for her father’s evil plans.
Hamilton O’Conner, Jordon’s father, is driven by his desire for power — he wants to be president. To further his efforts, he creates genetically enhanced super soldiers and wipes their memories. His first unwilling recruits are his daughter and her best friend.

After enduring torture and an attempt to erase her Memory, Jordon breaks through the memory program and escapes. Injured and nearly dead, she finds her brother and stays with him while she gets her strength back and tries to build a new life.

As much as she tries to have a normal life, people want to either use her or end her. At times, she feels like she is losing her mind but then her family and friends draw her back. The new found skills that her father implanted in her backfire on him. Jordon finds a form of freedom. She finds love and feels safe only in his arms. She would always be wanted but all that she wanted was the rolling green of Ireland and her family.

• Language: English
• Publisher: CJ Day
• Release date: Jul 10, 2013
• ISBN: 9781604147070

Book preview

IRISH JUSTICE

Book One of the Irish Justice Series

From An Innocent Child with a Blank Memory

... To a Monster ... To ... Whatever Comes Next ...

CJ Day

Smashwords ebook published by Fideli Publishing Inc.

Copyright 2013, CJ Day

No part of this eBook may be reproduced or shared by any electronic or mechanical means, including but not limited to printing, file sharing, and email, without prior written permission from Fideli Publishing.

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ISBN: 978-1-60414-707-0

Prologue:

Jonathon, we have to go. Tyler whispered as he looked back at the young man that had been his friend since childhood. They had spent hours setting this up and if they lingered people would be looking for them. Everything that they had tried to avoid would come crashing down on their heads. Come on man, we have done everything we can to set her up safely. It is up to Jordon now. They had to catch the first flight out to get back to Boston without anyone realizing that they had been gone. It had to look as though Jordon disappeared.

She’s too young for this, Tyler. Fame and fortune were way too much on her. How do you think she’s going to react to this? Jon’s voice was strained as he brushed the short curls away from his sister’s face.

We have no other choice! Tyler said in exasperation. Do you want them to catch her?

No, of course not ... Get the car started and let me say goodbye. Jonathon was getting upset with Ty. He didn’t have a sibling, much less a baby sister that had always counted on him. Yes, Jordon was nineteen now and a senior in college. She was brilliant and a well known writer/artist under an alias that would allow her to keep on doing what she was so good at. No one knew her ... she had always been protected and then all of a sudden she was in danger. Their mother had been flown back to Dublin and she was being hidden there. Their father had gone into hiding. The rest of them could take care of themselves. Jordon did not deserve this life on the run. They had almost killed her and for what? She knew nothing. She was just a child in school. Lying there, she seemed so vulnerable and innocent ... she was five foot tall and ninety pounds of fluff. Now, she was on her own and it just seemed wrong. This was his fault.

Jon turned to the young Doberman that stood guard at his sister’s bed. Listen Max, I’m counting on you to protect her. Let her rest for a few hours before you wake her up and then stick to her like glue. Do you hear me buddy? Protect her Max, she’s my best friend in this whole world and people are trying to kill her. He had to smile as the dog tilted his head one way and then the other. Jordon loved this handsome young dog. He was fresh out of obedience and guard school. His sister could do anything with the big brute. He was going to have to trust her in Max’s care. Don’t let her get hurt, Max.

Jonathon leaned over and kissed his sister’s forehead. I’m really sorry Jordie. I got you into this and this is the only way that I know to get you out. I have no idea why they wiped your memory... He stared at her sleeping form for a few more minutes. Lord, I hope you at least remember me. He heard the horn blasting. Tyler was being his normal obnoxious self. I have to go, sister, take care. He stared for a moment longer. She didn’t look much bigger than she did as a ten year old. With a heavy heart, Jonathon turned and headed out. The best he could do for her now was to stay as far away as possible and pray this mess just blew over...

I have her Jonathon. Collin O’Bryan stood in the small kitchen of the large RV. I will protect her with my life and try to make her understand.

I’m not sure that she will ever understand this, Collin. Someone has erased her memory. They took away her family, her childhood ... everything ... that made her who she is today. How can she forgive that? Jon glanced back at the door that he had just shut to his sister’s bedroom. I hope Dad was not behind this madness. This has just destroyed our whole family and for what?

Collin looked at the young man that looked like a tall masculine version of his sister and shook his head. From everything that I have learned about Jordon, she is good to the core of her ... Give her time to figure out who she is now.

We will be flying over to Dublin as soon as the dust clears Collin. Then Dad can deal with all of this on his own. Keep her here until we notify you to move on and drop the information through our channels after that as we have discussed. I will let you know when and if to fly her to Ireland. Jon reached out his hand. I know this is a job, Collin, one that I would only trust to an Irishman and my best friend. She means everything to me, man, protect her well.

Collin shook Jonathon’s hand and said softly. Your mother is my mother’s best friend, Jon. I remember Jordon when she was toothless with freckles and scabbed knees. I will protect her as if she were my own sister.

Jon studied the young man for a second. It was true that Collin had come from Ireland at the age of eighteen. Now he was twenty five and a bit jaded. He had been a New York detective and then after finding so much corruption, he branched out on his own. Now, he was a professional that ran his own protection agency for diplomats and important people. Jordon was different. This was family and Collin left the office on an extended vacation and left his assistant in charge. This boy wonder was only twenty five years old ... the same as Jonathon ... he just seemed older.

Tyler burst in the door. Now Jon ... there’s a patrol car in the park and I don’t want to look too conspicuous!

Jon looked from Ty to Collin and nodded. That’s it then. You know how to contact us. He headed out the door with his friend with his shoulders slumped.

I will take care of your sister, Jon. Collin said softly as he shut the door. His own sister had been killed in a raid outside of Dublin by the IRA. He understood the fear of loss ... he understood the heartache of losing someone that depended on you. Collin was determined that Jonathon would never experience those feelings about Jordon.

CHAPTER ONE

I cannot believe I am waking up with a hangover ... wait ... do I drink? I felt something cold and wet poke against my cheek. I opened my eyes and seemed to be staring into the eyes of a vampire. This ... this ... thing had golden eyes that were narrowly set on a long nose ... wait a minute. I sat up abruptly and my head banged like a gong had gone off. It was a dog! Woof! The big dog actually responded in an ‘indoor voice’ and made me smile. It was a black and rust Doberman and he was a beauty. For some reason that is totally unreasonable, I am not afraid of this huge beast.

You scared me... I reached over to his collar that had his tags attached and the name tag said; ‘Max’ and I burst into laughter when I read his full name that was centered underneath ‘Max.’ His full name was ‘Maximum Von Damage’ ... now that would be a name to remember and then I frowned ... remember? Oh man, what are you doing in my bed? I looked around and didn’t even recognize this small room or the dog or ... I eased out of the bed and stood in front of the mirror ... I don’t recognize the reflection looking back at me. I felt my head for bumps ... There were stitches across my right temple. I had a black eye and deep bruising down across my cheekbone. My right knee was in a brace and it was pretty sore. As I loosened the brace, I realized that it also had several stitches in it. My back was sore ... was I in an accident? Why don’t I recognize that person in the mirror? Where the heck am I? Who am I?

I stood in front of the mirror and stared at myself. Disappointedly, I am short ... no more than five foot and I am small ... not too skinny but not really built either. I have dark hair ... almost black ... and green eyes. I look really pale right now ... like I’ve been sick or something. Oh wow, that’s got to be it! I must have amnesia.

Max kept pushing me toward the door and finally ran and got a lead and came back to me. Do you need to go for a walk, Max?

Woof! Max twirled in circles and in this tight space that was a knee knocking experience. I started looking around and finally realized that I was in some kind of a RV ... a really nice RV and I guess big enough ... The décor was wood grain, ebony and stainless ... modern but cozy.

I had on tank top and shorts so I pulled on the tennis shoes by the door and opened the door cautiously. I wouldn’t be dressed like this if I were in Alaska ... right? I was relieved when the warm air hit me and I realized there were palm trees and palapas in some kind of a well landscaped RV Park. Okay Max, I think we can do this. I had noticed the bags and pooper scooper by the door so I grabbed them and headed toward the dog walk. This seems like a natural thing to do to me so maybe I have had Max for a while. I kept my head down and let Max run back and forth with his expanding leash. My head still hurts and my walk is stiff because of the knee and brace deal but... I just can’t remember crap. I should be scared but mainly ... I’m pissed. If I had a bad life and I was starting over ... great. What if I had a good life and this was some kind of a sick joke? I need answers.

Come on Max, we need to get back and figure this out. I told him gently and he came and sat down tight against my left side. Well, aren’t you the cutie pie! I thought I should check this out. Max ... lay down. He actually went down. Stay. I walked back toward the motor home and finally turned and looked at him. He was watching and twitching but he lay there, waiting for a command. Max ... come! Man, he was by my left side in a flash and hugging tight. Good boy, Max, someone has taught you well! I laughed and leaned down to hug him. I have a feeling that you and I are going to be good friends ... if we weren’t already. I stared into those intelligent eyes and sighed. Be patient, Max, we’ll figure this out buddy.

Together, we walked slowly back to the RV. Yeah, some RV ... it was a long Prevost with dark tinted windows. The color was a charcoal gray and the chrome glowed ... someone had money. I saw the little trailer and a tiny car parked in front of it. It was a sporty little charcoal gray with white stripes and a white roof ... a Mini Cooper with a vanity tag that said ‘Jay-lee.’ I wonder who or what that stands for ... The vehicle and trailer was parked really close to the RV ...

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

I opened the door to the RV and Max bolted in front of me, almost knocking me down. A low growl emitted from somewhere deep in his chest. I smelled coffee and some kind of breakfast ... bacon ...

Easy Max, it is just me lad ... Collin... The man standing at the stove was well over six feet tall. Hello Jordon, please come in and shut the door. While you are at it, I’d appreciate it if you would tell Max ‘out’ so he will not try to eat me and I can finish our breakfast. The man’s eyes were a brilliant green and they were smiling at me. He seemed harmless ... but someone beat the crap out of me, right?

Who are you? I demanded as I backed out of the RV.

Jordon, I will explain everything. I am your body guard. You are recovering from serious injuries and if you want Max to kill me ... all you have to do is order him to do so. I’m hoping you won’t do that. You need me, Jordon, just as you need Max. Please allow me to explain. I will not hurt you. I have to admit it. He is good looking but it was his voice with the Irish lilt to it and the laughing eyes that crinkled at the corners ... that drew me back into the RV. I have to know what is going on, right?

Max, it is okay ... out. I said softly and this beautiful dog waited until I sat at the table and then sat on my foot between the tall man and myself. He is so cool! I wonder if I take him out on dates with me ... Do I go on dates?

Why can’t I remember anything? I don’t remember Max and he is obviously my dog. I don’t know you or this RV. I don’t know a Jordon. Who messed up my head and my knee and what the heck is wrong with my back? Yes, I was just getting started and the guy just smiled at me and shook his head. He placed a cup of coffee in front of me with a breakfast plate. He filled Max’s bowls and looked at me.

Please tell Max to eat and we will talk over breakfast. He said calmly.

Max, eat your food. And just like that, Max went over and wolfed down his food as though he hadn’t eaten in weeks. I watched him as I drank from the coffee cup. What is your name?

Collin O’Bryan. He reached over with an outstretched hand and I shook it.

You are from Ireland? I asked ... stupid question ... his Irish accent was a dead give away...

Dublin. He answered.

Who am I? I asked as I picked at my food.

Your name is Jordon Lee. He said. Man of few words, I guess, but I needed answers. I watched as this Collin O’Bryan attacked his food about as quickly as Max did. Eat Jordon, you’ve been out for quite a while and we have to get you back in shape.

I ate quietly and stood to grab another cup of coffee. My head was starting to clear but it still seemed empty and void of any information. I sat back down and gazed out the window. The windows in this RV were so tinted that no one could see in but we could see out. I imagine this thing cost a fortune.

You have a lot of questions. Collin said with a grin. I will try to answer them. He stood up and took our plates to the sink. He seemed really efficient as he cleaned them off and washed them and placed them in the drainer. He refilled our cups and poured a glass of juice and handed me a dose cup with pills in it. You are still on antibiotics, and one for pain and one to relax the muscular tension in the knee surgery area and the back surgery ... Those won’t be needed much longer because I have signed us up to a gym to start getting you back into shape. The others are vitamins. You are a scrawny mess right now, Jordon. We have to get you back to your normal self as soon as possible.

Why don’t I remember anything? I whispered.

He looked at me for a moment and hesitated ... as if he was debating about telling me the truth and then he shook his head. Let me explain everything and then you can ask questions at the end ... fair enough? I studied his face and realized whatever it was ... the story was complicated. I finally nodded and sat back with my hand on Max’s head as he lay across my lap. Just having him here seemed to help ... I was suddenly very afraid.

Jordon, you were attacked and almost killed by some really influential people that have mob connections. There were more attempts while you were in the hospital and your mother was almost killed as well. She has been moved out of the country for her own safety and I was hired to care for you and keep moving whenever necessary until these people have been tracked down and eliminated. He saw the questions in my eyes and shook his head.

I cannot tell you any more about your family ... just that they are alive and well at the moment. Your memory was erased Jordon ... They wanted you to obtain a lot of information and be able to extract it from your memory. They tried to turn you into a warrior that they could just push a button and set you in motion. You got away and now they are looking for you.

Can you tell me anything about myself? Who am I? I was confused. All I knew was what I felt and what I saw in the mirror.

Collin seemed to understand. We need to take Max out again. If you would like to get a shower, I will lock the door and walk Max and then we will head out to see the local doctor. We have all day to get you caught up on everything that I can tell you about yourself. He stood up. You have clothes in the drawers in your room, Jordon, take your time and cover your stitches with the plastic I left on your bed.

I stared at him for a moment and then nodded. A shower did suddenly sound like a really good idea so I headed back the hallway.

Jordon, please tell Max to come with me. Collin was grinning at Max. The dog had plopped down and refused to move.

Max, go with Collin so I can get showered. It is okay, Max, go potty! I laughed as he jumped up and padded to the door. He amazes me... I eased the little door shut and began to undress as I heard another door shut and lock. I looked in the mirror as I undressed and realized Collin had been right. I am recovering from something that looked really bad. I was in different stages of healing. All of the stitches looked like it was time to come out but it looked like I had been in an awful auto accident. I was glad the meds were starting to take effect. With any luck, once I got moving and stretching I would feel a whole lot better. He thinks I am scrawny ... huh? Yeah, I admit it ... I am underweight and kind of puny at the moment but I have a feeling that I was athletic so I will get it back. Then, I guess I have to figure out who I am ... what I am. I know nothing about who I was before. What were my ambitions? Was there someone special in my life? What will I become now?

***

Collin helped me get into the small car and placed Max in the back. Oddly enough, there was more room in the car than I thought and it was pretty cute. I just couldn’t imagine this Collin going out and buying one ... I was grinning as I studied him.

Something strike you as funny Jordon? He asked with a raised eyebrow over his aviator sunglasses. He had run through a shower and now wore a white t shirt and shorts with sandals. It looked good on him. I noticed that he had placed his gun in the glove box and he was constantly checking out the area.

You look a bit strange in this little car. I admitted. So does Max. I looked back and Max had given up and stayed down. He was too tall to stand in the back of this thing.

Well, you are the one that likes these little cars and we wanted to make you happy. I have to admit it though ... it grows on you. With that, he downshifted and eased past a couple of cars and out onto the main highway. I leaned back in the seat and enjoyed the breeze.

Where are we? I asked finally after the silence had stretched on.

Baja, California ... Big Sur ... I figured we would tour the West Coast and then travel the lower states. The RV resort is in Cabo San Lucas and we will stay there as long as we can to make sure that you have a chance to recover fully. We are close to the ocean and the RV resort has a nice pool. I’ll teach you how to wind surf and sail while we get you back on your feet. He was smiling as he headed to an off ramp. What happened to you was diabolical, Jordon, you are on the mend but it has been difficult. You’ve been ‘off the nut’ ... He glanced at me and my raised eyebrow. Ah ... I meant that you were not yourself due to the pain and the pain killers that you’ve been on. The man actually blushed as he tried to explain his slang ... I love his accent.

Who am I, Collin? I asked.

I told you; your name is Jordon Lee. He glanced over at me and sighed. Okay. I’ll tell you what I can. You are nineteen years old and in the latter part of your senior year in college. You are a writer and play piano and paint. You were a karate expert and you’ve ran and placed in a lot of marathons. You have a beautiful voice ... what else do you need to know? I stared at him.

I am nineteen and a senior in college? I asked and he nodded. I guess I wasn’t too dumb ... before ... What was I studying? He shook his head. Am I a good writer?

You are a well known writer and very good from what I have read. You have used an alias and stayed out of the public eye anyway so you can continue writing if you want ... I have all of your tools of your trade with us. You write and paint under the name of J Lee. He smiled at me. The good thing about a protective family is that you have done all of this without being exposed to who you really were ... so you can continue that. You cannot continue running marathons however, because everyone knows that you have competed all over the United States and placed or won in a lot of them. You were entered under your real name and there are very few short dark haired girls running in these competitions.

I’m from the east, right? I asked as I watched the traffic. Nothing looks familiar. Everything seems foreign.

Jordon...

Well, I know I am not from here. I laughed and shook my head. I don’t understand any of this. Is my father some kind of a crime lord or something? Collin actually snorted. Well, how am I supposed to know?

Your Da’ is a very rich and powerful man. Sometimes, people try to influence people in power and when they can’t; they threaten or do bodily harm to family members to get the powerful man to cooperate. He cannot do so, Jordon, it is against everything he is. Collin looked really serious. It is not that he doesn’t love his family, it is that he is sworn to uphold the laws of this country and a lot of people could be hurt if he didn’t. A lot of people are unhappy with him right now but he believes he is doing what is best for everyone involved.

Even if it kills his wife and daughter... Okay, maybe that is a little harsh but that is the way it seemed. The man risked his family’s lives for the government. That just stinks.

Yes ... even then... Collin just couldn’t tell her that he thought her Dad was behind it all.

***

Evidently Collin had set up all of this appointment and its particulars in advance. I was taken through lab and x-ray and then ushered into an exam room where I was asked to strip down and put on some dorky looking gown. I have about had it with this place. I find that I do know Spanish but most of these people that think they are speaking Spanish are speaking Mexican ... totally different from what you are taught in school, alright? They talk so fast it is a wonder they don’t tie their tongues in knots...

A nurse came in and took my vital signs and got my weight. There was a whole lot of ‘clucking’ going on. My blood pressure was ‘too low’ and my weight was ‘pathetic’ and I am not sure she even liked the color of my eyes ... what a grouch! I was glad to see her take my chart and leave. I’ve been insulted enough for one day.

Ten minutes later a little gray haired lady came in that looked like someone’s grandmother. She had beautiful and very youthful brown eyes and when she turned to look at me, I saw her name on her white coat; Dr. Maria Sanchez. You do not look happy Jordon. She made the statement as she asked me to sit up on the exam table.

You should have seen the nurse that just left... I grumbled and Dr. Sanchez laughed.

She is always that way but she did have a few things to complain about. We went through the exam and finally the doctor got out a suture removal kit. Let us get these out and then we will talk. She worked diligently and soon the ugly black cat gut was removed and the nasty red scars remained. She cleansed and applied some kind of ointment to the areas. Use this the first week ... twice a day ... then switch to this Vitamin E and continue until the scars fade. With your young skin and a good tan, they should start to fade quickly.

Is there any permanent damage? I asked.

Jordon, why don’t you get dressed and I will talk to you and your companion in my office? Gabby will come and get you when you’re ready. She turned quickly and left. My companion ... did she think Collin and I were some kind of an item?

I hurried and dressed and was pulling on my tennis shoes when ‘Gabby’ reappeared. She still looked grumpy. Come. She ordered and jumped when Max met us and followed at my side. I had to smile because now she just looked scared but she kept it to herself. She tapped on the door and opened it and then she stood back and crossed herself as Max and I entered. Collin was trying not to laugh at Max’s tongue hanging off to the side smile. The big oaf knew that he had intimidated the woman and he was thoroughly enjoying it.

Max, come... I said as I crossed to a chair and he followed. Down and stay Max. And the big guy went down and stayed. Dr. Sanchez smiled at the dog and shook her head. It was obvious that Max was dedicated to Jordon.

Okay Jordon, you asked if there was any permanent damage. Your back is healing nicely but your knee is going to give you some trouble for a while. Eventually, you may need to have some microscopic surgery. We have a hyperbaric clinic and we will be scheduling you appointments to assist in the healing process and Mr. O’Bryan says that he will begin your physical therapy in the pool. The head injury is healing nicely. She sighed and came around and set a stool in front of me closely. Collin walked to the window and watched after locking the office door.

What are you doing? I whispered.

Jordon, I knew your mother. That is why you are here seeing me. I actually worked back East and moved here a few years ago for an early retirement. Obviously, the retirement didn’t happen. I know Collin and he is a good man. I know that you do not understand but if you and Collin get split up while you are down here, come to me. She handed me a card with numbers and an address on it. Memorize this and then destroy the card. If necessary, we will get you out of the country. She sighed and leaned back. I hear your mother’s recovery is slow but she is healing. Let’s get you on the road to recovery as well. Learn to follow your instincts. They have always been good. Write. Paint a beautiful sunset. Exercise and have fun. You have worked hard and studied all of your life. Slow down and enjoy this like it is a vacation. She seemed to know me from way back and the longing to know something about my past ate at me. You are a good kid, Jordon. Enjoy this time to grow up without constant parental guidance. You are a young woman now and becoming quite beautiful.

I guess I didn’t date much. I have a feeling that I have been way over protected. I wonder ... you know what ... I don’t even know if I am a virgin or not ... that totally sucks! Dr. Sanchez watched my face and leaned forward. Yes honey, you are still untouched. She whispered it but I felt like she had a megaphone and blushed accordingly. It is okay. You will be just fine. You went from a girls’ private school to a full time college student and athlete. Now, it is time for you to slow down and live a little. I just shook my head and hid my face in my hands.

Collin walked away from the window. When does she start the hyperbaric treatments Maria? He was looking at his watch and acting like he hadn’t heard a word that was discussed. That must be in ‘Body Guards 101’ or something. You know he heard her.

Let us start on Wednesday so we can give her a little time in the pool and the gym and just getting to be a tourist. Let her have some fun, Collin. She laughed and he rolled his eyes. That is part of healing as well, Mr. O’Bryan.

Yes, of course Doctor ... I will show her the sights of Baja. He looked at me. The day is wasting, Jordon, I’m getting hungry aren’t you? Why don’t we get on with it?

I stood up and shook the doctor’s hand. It will get better Jordon. She said softly as I left. I hope she’s right. I feel pretty lost right now.

***

We went back to the RV and fixed lunch and Collin had me change into a bathing suit. It was a two piece but not really that revealing ... something a ten year old might wear ... great. I pulled on a light sweat suit and walked out of the back room.

Collin was waiting. He had large flesh colored bandages. Drop the pants, Jordon and let me cover the knee and your back. This will look better so you won’t be as self conscious and it will help protect your fresh scars. I did as I was told and he was right, it did look better that the ugly red scars. When we go to the beach, you can lie out and get a tan. This time is for physical therapy okay? I nodded and grabbed my bag and followed him. Max trotted beside me.

The lifeguard to the large pool stopped us and said Max couldn’t enter the area. I had noticed that Collin had slipped an orange collar on Max but didn’t understand until he flashed a badge and some paperwork. Jordon has seizures and he is her companion dog. Medically, he has to be by her side. Okay, this is the first cute guy close to my age that I have met and he thinks I have seizures. This should be a real fun vacation ... oh yeah.

Isn’t it unusual for a Doberman to be a companion dog? He asked Collin.

Nope... I like a dog that can save me from myself and kick ass at the same time, don’t you? Hey, I could not resist. Collin already blew any flirting I could have done, correct?

I like your style. The California blonde lifeguard grinned and I had the decency to blush. Collin just shook his head and pointed at me. I followed him to the poolside ... trained as well as Max now, I guess. I better behave myself.

What was that? Are you going to flirt with every guy you see? You weren’t exactly at a nunnery, Jordon. He was scowling at me.

I was not flirting. You shot that when you made him think I was going to hit the floor seizing at any moment. Hey ... I don’t even know how to flirt and it is obvious you are not going to allow it anyway so just bug off! I stripped down and dove in and swam under the water to the other side. I guess I can swim. I should have asked first, right?

I held onto the side of the pool and watched as Collin pulled off his t shirt and kicked off his sandals. Okay, he was good looking. Dark tan, muscles, slim ... but he was ... old ... Wasn’t he old? He dove in with perfect form and surfaced next to me.

What if you couldn’t swim? He asked as he surfaced with a grin.

I guess I would have sunk. I frowned at him. How old are you anyway?

He looked at me in surprise and then a slow smile spread across his face. I was twenty five last month. I’m ancient. He was laughing at me.

I didn’t mean that... I stuttered. I ... I just don’t know anything about you and I couldn’t tell how old you were ... you are ... oh heck ... forget it! I swam across the pool and back. I could feel the pull in my back and my knee was a little uncomfortable. I eased back to the side. I’m sorry Collin. That was rude. I really had no idea how old you were.

He pulled himself out of the pool and hurried over to our bag by the chairs. He removed something and then went to the concession stand and bought a couple of cokes and hurried back. He held out his hand. Come out and rest a moment... He pulled me out and handed me a towel. Damn Jordon, I forgot the noon meds until I saw your face. You are one tough kid. He quickly handed me the meds and helped me down in the lounger. I think it is time to work on that tan, turn over. He used tan oil like massage oil and it felt like heaven. Big hands, warm oil, hot penetrating sun ... I felt like moaning but then he would have thought I was thinking something sexual and that wasn’t it ... the muscles seemed to just turn to liquid and quit hurting.

Thanks. I groaned and started to turn over to get up and get to work.

He held me still. Stay put ... the pills aren’t that good kid. Let the sun penetrate and then we will flip you over and work on that knee ... just relax for now. I closed my eyes and like an idiot, I fell asleep.

***

Jordon...? Collin was dripping on me when I looked up. Are you ready to turn over?

Sorry ... I conked out on you. I said in a hoarse voice and turned over slowly. Collin was there with the oil again. I can do that... He shook his head and handed me a cold drink. I watched as he applied the oil evenly on my arms and then worked on my legs. When he got to my right knee, he was a lot gentler. I really messed it up, didn’t I? The scarring was hard to tell what I tore up but there was a scar in the front and the back and there had been stitches down each side. Those scars were nasty looking. I didn’t know a knee surgery could be so involved.

You almost lost your lower leg, Jordon. Collin said as he massaged it. The bullet went in here and came out the back here. It shattered the kneecap, tore cartilage and muscle and you lost a lot of blood. That’s the only reason they caught you in the hospital.

That’s when they came after me again? I asked and he nodded. What happened to my head and my back?

The head wound was a graze. You jumped to knock your mother down and actually saved her life but you took a bullet in your lower back. Jordon, you just came out of traction when the idiots found the hospital you were in. You had saved your Mom at the house and they had just transported her out of the hospital. They were setting things up to move you when the men found you... He was looking away from me. You fight like an Irishman, kid, you almost had them and they were professionals.

Am I Irish? Heck, I didn’t know. My hair is a really dark brown even in the sun. I have green eyes but I am really pale right now. I don’t even know if I tan.

You are Irish. You have spent your whole life in Ireland until your Da brought you to America to study. It was private specialty schools and then on to Harvard. He didn’t give you time to grow up in the safety of your family or with your mother. I remember you as a little kid ... all freckles and knobby knees... He was grinning. You were my sister’s age and both of you got along great.

What is her name? I know, this is all a blank but when he speaks of Ireland, his eyes light up and his accent becomes more pronounced.

Her name was Kerry. He looked away and suddenly the light went out and sadness veiled his eyes. She was killed last year by the IRA we think ... we are not sure who was behind it. She was a bit of a rebel... He shook his head. You remind me of her, Jordon, please don’t take any chances and stick close to me and Max ... I don’t think I can take losing another sister. Oh great ... now he thinks of me like I’m a sister. Oh well ...

When can I start back on the self defense stuff? Do I even know how to shoot a gun Collin? You said I knew karate but I don’t remember crap! How do I defend myself if we get split up? Yes, change the subject, maybe if I live through all of this ... Collin, do I have any siblings?

Collin’s head jerked in my direction and he fought his inner self for a moment. Jordon, I would rather not say...

I stared at him. I do, don’t I? I can feel it ... I have ... you know what ... I have an older brother too, don’t I? And we are really close, aren’t we? I watched as Collin got to his feet. You may as well tell me. What is his name? Where is he?

Collin shook his head. His name is Jonathon and he’s going to kill me. He is my age and we are good friends, Jordon. Jon is covering for you and working the business. He wants you safe and he wants your mother safe. He has his friend with him ... they’ve been friends forever ... just like us ... since childhood. He is okay, Jordon.

Did I have any best friends Collin? I feel so alone. No, I know I am lucky to be alive but did I have anyone that missed me besides my brother?

You did... Collin sighed. You and Kerry were best friends. Come Jordon, time for your workout. He helped me up and we began. I noticed the lifeguard watching us and Max was watching him. Shoot with a bodyguard and a guard dog, I don’t have a chance. Bummer...

***

Collin took me to a restaurant on the beach. It had been a long day and we were both getting tired. I found myself almost as observant as Collin, scanning the crowd and listening to things going on around me. A couple ladies were flirting with Collin and a couple of young guys were smiling at me. Two asked me to dance but Collin told them that I was recovering from knee surgery and they graciously left. I watched the dancers on the floor and missed getting to go there. I have a feeling that I know how to dance and I found my fingers moving to the tempo. It was like the piano on stage was calling to me. Whatever life I had before, my body was responding to familiar things and music seemed to be part of me...

We walked the beach, carrying our shoes. I may have been at a beach before but I don’t remember and everything is so fresh and beautiful. The ocean is a deep blue and there are beautiful sail boats on the horizon as the sun begins to set ... what a beautiful picture ... this would be something to paint ... Again, my hands itched to be holding a paint brush or at least a pad with art pencils. My brain wanted to transpose what I was seeing onto paper. Could I? Was it just a gift that would come back because it was part of who I was?

Why are you rubbing your hands? Collin asked as he followed my gaze. Oh, I get it... He was smiling. We need to get you back to the RV and rest this evening. After we go to the gym tomorrow, we will take some time for you to use your art supplies, fair enough?

Do you think I can still paint Collin? I whispered.

Of course I do and it will be good therapy for you. I know all of this is strange and frightening Jordon ... but we’ll make it through. He helped me back to our little car with Max right at my side and we headed back to our home on wheels. A weird life but the only one that I can remember ... sad, isn’t it?

CHAPTER TWO

The next week we set up a routine. We were up at six in the morning and ran with Max. Then we came home, showered, ate and hit the pool. After the pool, we ran through a shower and then went to the hyperbaric clinic and went through a treatment ... then it was on to the gym, a late lunch and some sightseeing. We either ate out or went swimming or just chilled out on the sofas and watched a movie. It was exhausting but I was getting into shape and I could bend my knee better. The scars were fading and the bruising was almost all gone. I was feeling a whole lot better and the need for pain pills was down to an occasional Tylenol unless I really pushed too hard. I was healing.

We headed to the hospital for my check up and then, after lunch, we were going to check out a local dojo to see if my body remembered anything in the way of self defense.

Dr. Sanchez bustled in smiling at me. You are looking much better! How do you feel Jordon?

Much better... I smiled at her. I feel stronger.

Good ... very good ... we will go another two weeks of hyperbaric treatments, Jordon. The therapy that you and Collin are doing is promoting your healing process faster than I could have dreamed. How are you feeling otherwise? She sat down next to me and petted Max. You are such a lovely dog, Max. The big lug was eating it up.

I wish I could remember things, Maria, I won’t lie. I did remember my brother so we must be really close. I watched her face and she nodded slowly. I understand that it is best that I don’t remember everything. Evidently, I am some kind of brain and I have knowledge in there that the bad guys want ... if it is even still there. There is just nineteen years ... my lifetime of memories... My voice trailed off and I stared out the window. Sorry, I’m thankful to be alive and to have all of the help that I have been given.

You are a good kid, Jordon. She reached over and hugged me as I groaned. She laughed. Young lady ... you have to understand that I have known you since you were in diapers. You are a beautiful young lady now ... I am sure the guys are noticing. I shook my head and shrugged.

Well, with Max and Collin around, I understand. With that tan you are getting ... I am sure that you are turning heads and look at you ... you are back up to the ninety pounds that you were when all of this began and you have filled out a little and your muscle tone is back ... I think you look really good... She laughed as I shook my head. "Time, chica, give it time." That is easy for her to say ... she has lived a lifetime. My short lifetime ... I don’t even remember.

***

We headed to the local dojo and Collin rented us a couple of uniforms to use. He was quick and already dressed in his ghi by the time I came out. He was talking with the Sensei and one of his assistants. I walked over to them as I tightened the belt and the Sensei nodded in approval. Very good... You remembered how to do the belt ... now I will have Lang run you through katas while your brother and I talk.

I looked at Collin and he nodded. I guess he could pass for my brother ... who knows? I walked over to where Lang stood and did a quick bow. I don’t remember anything. I told him quietly.

You might be surprised, Jordon, just imitate what I do... He announced each kata as he went into it and he was easy to follow. First, he would do the exercise very slowly and then he stepped it up. I was beginning to warm up. The Sensei and Collin quit talking and started watching.

Finally, the Sensei clapped, we stopped and bowed and waited for the next instructions. Jordon, come talk with me. The Sensei said quietly. I did as I was told. I have been told about your situation and about your injuries. I understand that you have been quite a warrior but you remember almost nothing. Karate is basically defense. You need to defend yourself and protect your injuries. You are not entirely healed and must react accordingly. Can you do this?

I will try Sensei. I said humbly.

I admit it, I was not quite ready when the Sensei clapped his hands and said; Begin. I got on board quickly as four young men came out of the wings. I met their attack in total self defense. Man, they were quick. I dodged, hit the floor, rolled, flipped and they kept coming ...

ATTACK JORDON...! Collin yelled and I guess he was right. They could do this all day but rolling around was going to get painful. I dodged the first guy and threw the next and then I got into a rhythm. They were all taller and heavier than me so I learned to use their weight and height against them. By the time the Sensei called it, Collin was smiling and the guys that went against me were wet with sweat and breathing hard. I