Vanished... Book 3 of The Summers Sisters Series

By CJ Day

KINSHEY JACKSON only wanted a normal life. So far her life has been full of trial, injury and illness. What keeps her sane is her family. The two previous books of Kinsey’s life expose an assault, a rape and amnesia. She fought to find herself again and start over. Illness invaded her happiness just as she was facing her marriage to Caleb and even though she walked a fine line between life and death, she still prevailed. She was an Olympic finalist, college student, an artist, a pianist...but most of all, she was a young woman who loved everything she was.

When her older sister and brother-in-law are involved in a plane crash in Hawaii....Kinsey is faced with the impossible. A plane charter conflict places Kinsey in the middle as a pawn and an obsession of a deranged Hawaiian native.

As Kinsey fights to get her life back together, she finds herself in a true Garden of Eden on top of a volcano. Killing her attacker and fleeing through the jungles of an upper island, Kinsey thought she was unworthy to live. She only wanted to live long enough for her baby—Cable’s son—to survive.

This fast paced book will take you from Kinsey’s family almost perishing in a plane crash to a final jet crash on an isolated island. After fighting back from being kidnapped and abused and blowing Derrick’s head off in the close quarters of their jet....after losing and then regaining her sanity and her young family on the top of that volcano....Kinsey got the courage to go back home and face her life again.

That was not going to happen because the charter conflict was not over. Someone had placed filled balloons in the fuel tank of the FBI jet and even though the gauge read almost full, the jet ran out of fuel before it made it to its destination in Baja, California. It seemed like Chief Marco and the young Jackson family had simply vanished out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. How could anyone go through so much and then just perish? Her life had been plagued by so much pain and just when it looked like things were going to be okay, the madness just starts again...

• Language: English
• Publisher: CJ Day
• Release date: Jul 23, 2013
• ISBN: 9781604147018

Book preview

VANISHED…

BOOK THREE OF THE SUMMERS SISTERS SERIES

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: 978-1-60414-701-8

Prologue

Agent Sam Cain walked out of the bathroom as he dried his hair with one of the thick luxurious towels from room service. This had been a wonderful vacation…life had changed since he married Kelsey Summers. She had been in his life forever but by the time he realized the age difference didn’t matter, she had married someone else. He was amazed that life could be so relaxed and easy. Sam was glad that Kinsey, his sister in law and god child, had convinced them that a second honeymoon was needed before the arrival of their new baby. Kelsey had been all smiles and tenderness. They seemed to be more in love than ever. He stopped in his tracks to stare at his beautiful pregnant wife. Kelsey stood in her sheer yellow nightgown with her hands resting above and below the firm bulge in her middle. Sam had always heard about women being their most beautiful when they were pregnant…Lord…he was looking at a goddess.

Kelsey had become even more beautiful. She was five foot four and at six and a half months pregnant she weighed a hundred and thirty pounds. Her tan was almost as dark as her sister’s now and the long golden wavy hair hung half way down her back like magnificent folds of silk. How someone could look so graceful standing quietly and gazing out at the ocean was beyond him. When Kelsey turned and smiled at him, his heart dissolved. Those deep blue Summers eyes twinkled at him. Kelsey had the high cheekbones of royalty, long, thick, midnight black eyelashes, beautifully arched eyebrows, the impish turned up nose that gave both her and her sister’s face animation. She had deep dimples, sensuous lips, beautiful teeth that were sparkling widely at him now….and that long graceful neck that led to a body that turned him to mush. There it is…that deep sexy chuckle that started somewhere low and worked its way up….

Samuel you are staring… Kelsey opened her arms and he held her close. Kinsey was right. This place is amazing. They had rented the same private bungalow that Kinsey and Caleb rented for their honeymoon. Kelsey started giggling like a school girl as she looked at the horizon pool just outside past the deck. Oh Lord, I can see it now…

What? Sam looked at the pool and then groaned. What did my goddaughter do?

He looked at his wife and back to the pool. Oh…she did not! And of course, Kelsey’s hysterical laughter told him that Kinsey…had indeed streaked in the pool.

Caleb dragged her back in because he was afraid that you would have satellite surveillance covering the place. Of course, it happened more than once. Kelsey had tears streaming down her face because she was laughing so hard. Sam and Caleb had a lot in common. They had both been deliriously happy with their new brides but did not want to share them with the world. Kinsey seemed to have no modesty and sometimes embarrassed Caleb and Sam into shocked silence. Sam’s face was masked horror.

That’s my boy! Sam laughed as he ran and answered the door to retrieve the breakfast cart. Thanks man, this smells great! He handed the young Hawaiian a generous tip. As he shut the door and turned around he saw Kelsey’s gown on the floor and heard her slide into the pool. Ah Kelsey…get back in here! Of course he ran and jumped in like an enthusiastic teenager.

* * *

They were both dressed with their day packs ready when Gavin knocked on the door. Sam hurried to open the door. Hey buddy! It has been forever! How do you like life in Hawaii? Sam and Gavin had been in the academy together. Gavin had to medically retire after a bad bust on an assignment in Virginia that left him with an artificial leg. He and his wife co piloted tourist planes and island choppers together. They made it work.

It has been forever Sam. There’s the little mama. Gabby is waiting on us Kelsey. We will spend the day island hopping. She’s anxious to spend time with her old friend. Gavin grinned at Kelsey and hugged her gently. You look amazing my friend. I guess being married to this big lug has been good? Sam punched him.

I have never been happier. Kelsey smiled gently.

How’s Kinsey? He asked as they headed to the Jeep.

Kelsey laughed. She’s happy, healthy, wonderful….did you know she is just finishing her junior year at U&M?

Gavin stopped suddenly and turned and looked at her in shock. What? Is she even eighteen yet? I thought she was sick…she got married….adopted a baby… Wait a minute, what am I missing? The story of Kinsey’s life for the past two years had been a nightmare of injury, terror and sickness. He had no idea how the young child he remembered from swim meets and surfing competition even survived the things that he had been told about.

Yeah, it hit them all like that. Their parents were murdered when Kinsey was fifteen. Kelsey’s first husband was responsible. He was also responsible for raping and beating Kinsey while Kelsey was in court. Liam Anderson was an evil man. The only thing that the man did that was good was her four year old son, Carson. So much had happened…so many life and death situations that nearly took Kinsey away from them. Her baby sister had even come back from nearly dying from leukemia. How did you explain Kinsey?

She’s Jonah and Julia’s daughter, man. What did you expect? Yes, Sam saw the tears in Kelsey’s eyes. It hit them all like that. They had all watched in horror as injury or illness tried to take her away. More than once, Sam had been on his knees in the hospital chapel praying for God to give her back. Kelsey just could not handle losing her baby sister. Sam had become attached to Kinsey when she was in an incubator at the hospital. She had been like his little sister and responsibility when he was only sixteen. Now…he changed the subject. We’ll fill you in during the trip. The Summers girls have always been a force to deal with. Sam gently helped Kelsey into the Jeep and bent over and kissed her. No tears today, baby, today we are happy. Kelsey nodded and looked away.

The day was amazing. Kinsey was right. Hawaii was alive with vibrant color. There was so much to see and not enough time to see it all. They sat down at Lanai for lunch and then again at Kauai for dinner. Gavin and Gabby had shown them the places that they had never seen. Kelsey had been to several areas in Hawaii. There were family vacations and a lot of surfing competitions for Kinsey but there had been nothing like this. This trip had shown the beauty of the land and the people. Kelsey was anxious to get back to the bungalow and download the photos to her sister and her best friend, Liza.

It is time to head back guys…we had too good of a time! Gabby laughed from the pilot’s seat. It will be dark by the time we get you two back to your love nest. Gabby flashed a smile at her college friend. Kelsey had only gotten more beautiful since college. She had been through so much. To see her sister struggle and the heartbreak of Liam and what he did to her family would have been unbearable. Yet it seemed like the sisters were closer than ever. She had always admired the brilliant Kelsey Summers.

Gabby…look at the temperature gauge. Gavin said quietly. Things were running hot. They both frantically searched to attempt to find the problem. Suddenly, the coolant level was off, the electrical went haywire and smoke suddenly puffed from the left engine. What the hell….! Gavin choked. The plane had just been gone over from nose to tail yesterday.

Find me some place to land, Gavin, do it now! Gabby whispered. She went through the checks and saw in fear that systems were shutting down. They had decided to fly over some small romantic islands for their friends and it had been a mistake. This was not a good place for a small Cessna. They should have brought the pontoon plane but it was already chartered out. Oh man…Sam…both of you strap in. Pad Kelsey to the limit and prepare for a crash. We’re going to try to find a beach but this thing is shutting down fast. Strap things down and protect Kelsey.

Gavin had hurried with Sam to prepare Kelsey and then he made sure Sam was strapped in. Stay calm. We will get through this. He said quietly. He heard the engine shut down and hurried forward to help.

Gabby looked at him and shook her head. The nearest and longest beach wouldn’t be long enough but they didn’t have a choice. Mayday….this is Gala flight YZ 26ll4. Mayday….we are going down…. Then the electrical was gone and they both saw the island ahead. Gabby said a silent prayer and fought to arc the plane to slow it down and ease to the far end of the stretch of sand…she hoped it would give them just enough room to crash gently.

Kelsey and Sam stared at the fast approaching island in fear. Oh Kinsey, I am so sorry… Kelsey cried. She was afraid that this would destroy her baby sister once and for all.

We’re going to make it, Kelsey. Come on, put your head down and stay there. Sam said and helped her and shielded her with his body. He could feel her shaking uncontrollably underneath him and found himself praying hard. Kelsey and their child meant everything to him and they would be leaving little Carson behind. Kinsey would be devastated. They had to survive this…

Gavin watched his wife expertly glide the plane in. It looked like they might make it. She eased the small plane gradually around to where the sand began and they sat down evenly. They hit the sand and then a rock…a small boulder…took out the left wheel and the plane swerved into the trees. Then the world went black…

CHAPTER ONE

We finished testing and this is my last workout at the college for weeks. We finally get a break. If I hadn’t convinced my sister into taking the Hawaii trip, I would be tempted to try to talk Caleb into an escape to the big island. Lord, I’m tired. It is my own fault. I’m the one that thought I could handle pre law and pre med. Now, I’m whooped.

I can’t believe how healthy I feel. This is the longest that I have gone for over two years without injury or illness. My family and friends have begun to relax and life has been good. For once, I am not worrying them to death. They can focus on their own families and priorities. Kelsey and Sam can enjoy their work and Carson and the soon to be new addition. We can all breathe and not worry about Kinsey dying…this Kinsey has a lot to be living for.

Our adopted baby girl is almost two years old…and she is beautiful and brilliant and talented… She swims like a fish, plays piano, paints…and she is learning Spanish in Montessori classes. She amazes us. For a near drowning victim just minutes after she was born, she has turned into a genius. We are so proud of her.

My handsome husband…that whole phrase makes me shudder with joy…is U & M’s pin up boy. His photo is all over school. Caleb Jackson, star quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner is the pride of our college. He is the handsomest man in the world…at least in my eyes. It helps that he is also the sweetest, most gentle loving husband, father, son and brother that ever walked God’s green earth. …Shoot! I lost track of how many laps I have done. After a couple more turns for good measure, I held onto the side of the pool and wheezed. Man I am tired!

I was wondering if you were going to stay in there all night! I looked up to see my best friend grinning like an idiot. Cassidy Jackson, Caleb’s twin, was looking down at me. Were you day dreaming about my big lug of a brother again? She held out her hand and helped me out. It has to be ninety degrees in the enclosed pool area and I am shivering… Kins, are you all right? Come on and run through a shower. .

I’m just tired, Cass, I lost track of laps. I shook my head and followed her. I have never been so ready for a break in my life.

You lose track of time because you think of everything else and not your swimming, Kins. Yeah, I am tired too, kiddo. This has been a long semester. Cass shook her head. Kinsey had done a hundred laps in that blasted pool. Twenty laps would have put her in a hospital. Cassie finished the ledger that she was working on and put it in her briefcase. The coaches would be proud of Kinsey’s times but she would talk to them later.

When Cassie looked up, Kinsey was standing there in skinny jeans and a jersey, looking like she had taken hours to get that look. The sad fact was; Kins took ten minutes, shower and all. You didn’t have to work too hard when you were one of the Summers sisters. Kinsey was still a little too thin but she was solid muscle. Her hair was almost platinum from pool and sun and it hung down fluffed in a halo of curls down her shoulders. Her eyes were a deep sapphire blue, surrounded by long dark eyelashes with eyebrows that arched perfectly. She had high aristocratic cheekbones, deep dimples, beautiful mouth full of perfect teeth and that turned up nose made her somewhere between cute and downright beautiful. Kinsey was five foot two and athletic enough to place gold and silver at the Olympics, surf with the big boys, manage fourth level black belt…and talented enough to have an art showing in downtown Miami. To top it off, she was brilliant. Most sisters in law would be jealous. Most friends would be jealous. Kinsey was like the sister Cassie had never had…and the fact that Kinsey had no idea how beautiful, intelligent and talented she was…well…you couldn’t help but love her.

Um... Cass, what are you staring at? I grinned down at this cute little redhead that was scowling at me. Caleb was six foot three and a hundred and ninety pounds of pure muscle. He was a handsome guy. Cassie…was beautiful and petite…five foot nothing, ninety pounds of beautiful curves, deep green eyes, huge dimples…and now she is glaring at me? WHAT?

Did you put make up on? Cassie demanded.

Um… I used a little powder and a touch of lipstick…why….what’s wrong? I am confused.

Cassie slammed stuff into her briefcase and got up and stomped out. Yeah, believe it or not, a ninety pound redhead can stomp. I followed and waited for her to cool off from…whatever. We put the top down on the Mini Cooper and I climbed behind the wheel and headed home.

You are an insult to any woman. Cassie mumbled.

Huh?

That look would have taken me at least an hour, you jerk! Cassie turned back and laughed at me. You don’t even see how good you look, do you?

I started to grin. If I look good enough for Caleb, then that is all that matters. You look pretty cool also. I shook my head. Is Charlie coming over later?

Probably... Cass looked out the window and chewed on her bottom lip.

What’s wrong Cassie? I know Cass has been through a lot. She lost Willie last year. She has a baby girl that is three months younger than our Julie. Annie was the main good that came from the marriage…but that happens. Willie became out of control. He hurt Cassie and tried to kill Caleb and me in a fit of rage…actually…he almost succeeded in my case… I’m not sure why he focused on us. We did step up and protected Cassie once she let us in on what was happening. Willie was our friend. He was Caleb’s best friend…but Cassie is Caleb’s tiny twin. We had to protect her from the monster that Willie had become. He about destroyed my best friend.

Charlie asked me to marry him, Kins. Cassie turned and looked at me and I saw her heartbreak. I pulled over to the side of the road and pulled her close. I…I can’t marry him. Kinsey. What am I going to do?

Do you love Charlie, Cass? I asked softly.

I don’t know. She wailed. I care about him…a lot…but Kinsey, I can’t get married again. Cassie is in a tough place. We’ve both been through a lot. Both of us were violently beaten and raped. Cassie’s abuse was by her husband though and that is a hard one to put behind you. She aborted and about bled to death because of Will’s brutality. Oh man…we’ve been here before. I almost went nuts over Liam’s attack and he was just my brother in law. If it had been Caleb….I am not sure how I would get through that.

Cassie, if you need time, tell Charlie that. He loves you honey. He will wait. I said softly. Charlie is not Willie. You can’t throw your future away and live in the past. You have no idea what may happen in the future but you can’t stay stuck… My voice trailed off. I about lost my mind and destroyed my future with Caleb. I am not the one that should be giving advice here. We love you, Cass, it will work out.

I’m so scared… Cassie whispered.

I understand. I said quietly. Tell him you need time, Cass.

It may take forever… She sighed.

Then…it takes forever. I grinned at her. I miss the babies….are you okay now?

Let’s go…I miss them too. She laughed as she wiped her eyes. You are a good friend, Kinsey Jackson.

Almost as good a friend as you are Cassidy Jackson. I winked at her and pulled out and headed home. Life is hard. You just have to get through it somehow and with the family and friends that we have, I know somehow Cass will prevail.

* * *

When we pulled in front of the beach house I just about stroked. As usual, Madison came running when she saw the car. My beautiful red and rust Doberman usually went to school and practice with me but today she had a vet appointment. I love this dog and she has become the family guardian. She watches out for the children and Cassie as much as she does me anymore. I could tell that she had been part of this conspiracy that was going on in front of our beach home. It looked like the whole gang was in our driveway…

Caleb and Liza had Carson and Julie in roller blades. Liza’s husband, Jim, held their baby Tyler in his arms while Aunt Vera held Cassie’s little Annie. Charlie was tying tiny skates on Annie’s feet. Oh Lord, what do they think they are doing? I moaned and Cassie just stared at me. Carson was old enough to start with the skates…maybe…but our babies…?

There you are! Caleb waved and laughed as he picked up Julie and flew toward us. Come play with us Mama! Julie was giggling as Caleb bent down and kissed me. I just stared at him. Um... Kinsey, you should see your face. I saw Liza laughing. Okay, I guess this is payback time for all of the time I drove my folks, Kelsey and Liza nuts on skateboards and Rollerblades…but…ah man….

‘She is only two years old, Caleb!" I got out and caught Julie as she lunged into my arms.

You were two, Kins, or did you forget that? Liza giggled as I shot her a dirty look. Oh yes, Kelsey’s best friend and one that we claimed as a sister because she had grown up with us and been Kels’ constant buddy all through school….has just lost her mind.

I checked Julie’s helmet, knee pads, elbow pads….okay, she has on jeans and a long sleeve t shirt but…. She needs butt pads…darn it…she has nothing to protect her skinny little butt! I said with a growl and Caleb’s dimples deepened.

She doesn’t have that far to fall, Kinsey. He laughed at me. Get your skates on woman; I heard you were good at this.

I looked across the Mini at Cass and groaned. We cannot leave these guys alone with the kids for a minute, can we?

I didn’t know you skated, Kinsey, is there anything you can’t do? Cass grinned and grabbed the skates that Charlie held out for her.

Yeah, evidently I can’t help but act like Kelsey in this case. I growled and grumbled my way to the steps to put on my skates. Okay, it does sound like fun but Julie is so little. She’s two years old and about fourteen pounds…too darn little to bust her butt on concrete and pavement, right?

I pulled on the skates and remembered the soft leather and feel. I loved these things. No one had taken time to skate in…years. I guess we did say it was time for a break…let’s just hope that break doesn’t include broken bones….

I looked up to see Caleb leaning down. He held my face between his huge hands and brought my face up to his. Ah…magnet lips….I had to smile. I sighed into the kiss and before I knew it, my arms snaked around his neck and I was in his arms. Home…yes, this is it. I cannot believe that I am this lucky. This…makes up for everything that had gone wrong in my life.

Uh hum! Skating…not necking on the front step in front of God and everyone! Cass laughed and I looked up to see everyone looking at us grinning.

He started it… I grumbled and then grinned. I’m good. I got up and did a quick circle around and skated backwards to Caleb. They were laughing in amazement when I knew just when to turn and jump into his arms.

Yep, she is good. If Sam had seen that move before he would have stroked, Kinsey. Liz giggled. It was a miracle that Sam wasn’t bald or prematurely gray.

I never needed that move before, Liz. I am so glad that our families had been able to merge into one big happy family. Caleb and Cassie’s Mom and Dad were agents. Jim and Liza were also agents. They had work and family in common.

Yes, I missed Kelsey and Sam and I hope that they are having the time of their lives. Kelsey looked so great all through this pregnancy. When she was expecting Carson, she was sick a lot. I think a lot of that was being sick at heart. Now, she glowed with happiness and health. Have you heard from them? I asked as I held my hands out for Julie.

Not since day before yesterday, Kins. She usually downloads photos every night like you did. I guess she is having too much fun with Sam. Liza got an ornery look on her face and snickered. I wonder if she has streaked to the pool. Liza was smiling.

Kelsey? I looked at Liza in shock and then after I thought a minute, I started laughing hysterically. Between hiccups…I managed; She would have had to try it….I told her about Caleb’s reaction….oh Lord…is Sam’s heart strong enough for that? We all lost it. Sam was such a prude when it came to Kelsey and me. Poor guy… He’ll probably need therapy when he gets back! I whooped and even Jim had tears running down his face.

Poor man… I figured he would call by now just for some macho support. Jim grinned at Liza. Look at those two… He had watched Kinsey playing with Julie as she talked. She was gently getting her little daughter past the fear of falling as she pretended not to notice. She loved kids and it showed. Kinsey had taught dozens of infants and children to swim with the same casualness. Julie seemed totally trusting in her young mother. The kid worshipped Kinsey.

Julie and I had been skating in circles and then I eased to her side and then let go and flew ahead to turn and skated back. I stayed skating backwards to catch her as Caleb skated behind her. SHE’S SKATING! Liza and Cassie squealed together. AWESOME!

Julie managed a turn and a bow and Caleb caught her before she went head first. Whoops! She giggled. TA DA! We all clapped and held up ten fingers. I think our pixie will be a competitor.

Okay guys….now I am starving! I laughed and skated to the deck. I’ll start dinner while you children play. I sat down to take off my skates and Caleb flew toward me and sat down laying me back on the deck. Um…dinner Caleb…I have to fix dinner. I grinned as he kissed me.

I could help. He whispered.

I want food on the table not me, baby. You play with Julie and the children. I laughed. Caleb was staring at me. What? I asked cautiously.

Um… I was just picturing you on the table….naked….hey…ouch! Caleb flinched as his twin smacked him on the back of the head. Hey, what was that for?

You boys take care of the kids and we will fix dinner. You are not allowed to have Kinsey on the table….gross Caleb! Cassie laughed.

Not gross…you weren’t suppose to be listening, Sis. Caleb looked around and saw Liza smirking at him. Man, Kins, we need a vacation! He grumbled and stuck his bottom lip out. I nibbled his bottom lip and pulled him back. Hmm... Go way Cass…we’re busy…

Nope… Get up you big lug before I go get the hose. Cass laughed and dragged him off with Annie, Carson and Julie helping.

Fine... He grumbled and rolled off grabbing the kids. Cass and I headed in laughing.

He’s a mess. Cassie laughed as she pulled out the chicken breasts. I’ll prep these for the grill, Kins. Go get a shower and then you can do the salad while I take mine.

I grinned at her and smelled my jersey. Yuck…guess I did need another shower after all of the skating and stuff. You could send Caleb… She threw a dish towel at me. Fine…!

* * *

The evening went well but we still hadn’t heard from Sam and Kelsey. All of us had left messages. There was this little nagging in the back of my head that said something was wrong. If Kelsey didn’t call tomorrow, I would call the resort. They may have gone to another island but it was unlike Kelsey to not call and talk to Carson at least once a day.

Finally, I fell asleep curled up against Caleb and dreamed. At first the dreams were all mixed up and then they were of our honeymoon. I dreamed of loving nights and midnight nude swims. At one point, I almost woke Caleb up…yeah…they were that good. Then I kept getting flashes of palm trees flying by that always ended up in darkness in the end. Suddenly, the dream sharpened. I could see the couple in front as a pilot and co pilot… there were screaming and someone yelling to get Kelsey safe. I heard the sputter and saw the smoke and someone calling; Mayday….mayday….the is Charter flight, Gala….ssssss ….gong down…..ssssssss…. I sat up with tears flowing down my cheeks and a sob caught in my throat. I eased out of bed and silently ran downstairs with my laptop. I looked at the clock in the kitchen and it was 3:33 am. I opened my laptop and found the resort website.

Aloha, this is Tropical Fantasy Resort, how may I help you? I had found the phone number and a sweet young Hawaiian voice answered cheerfully.

Ma’am, this is Kinsey Jackson from Miami. I am trying to locate my sister and brother in law; Sam and Kelsey Cain. They are renting bungalow twelve. We haven’t heard from them in a couple of days and have become concerned. Could you have them call home please? I hurried to fix coffee just to keep busy. I felt my chest clench in total panic.

Please hold… And she was gone. What the crap?

Hello, this is Pierce Alto. I am the manager at this resort. Can I help you? I remember this guy. We met him when Caleb and I went to the resort.

Pierce, this is Kinsey Jackson. My husband Caleb and I spent our honeymoon there a year and a half ago. We convinced my sister; Kelsey Cain and her husband Sam, to spend a second honeymoon there before their baby came. We’ve been trying to get in touch with them and haven’t been able to catch them near a phone. Could you check on them and ask them to call? I felt a knot in my stomach. I felt like my heart was going to thump right out of my chest. Kelsey was all that I had left of our little family with our parents gone. I cannot accept this. There has to be a reasonable explanation. I felt the rise of panic rise in my throat. Please God….don’t let this nightmare be reality. I can’t take this!

Kinsey, are you alone right now? Pierce asked calmly. Haven’t you been really sick?

I was ill, Pierce, I am okay now. We have beaten the Leukemia…at least for now and we’ve just finished this semester at U&M. No Pierce, Caleb and Julie are asleep right now so I am in the kitchen alone…it’s three thirty or so…in the morning here. I’ve had some disturbing dreams, Kelsey hasn’t called and I was worried.

Kinsey, I wish you had someone there with you… Pierce began.

Pierce, this is my sister. I know something is wrong….tell me! I growled. I’m tired of everyone still trying to protect me. No, I don’t want to know that something bad happened to Kelsey…I just want to know where to look to find her!

Kinsey….

Pierce! Where is Kelsey? I begged.

We don’t know Kinsey. The man said quietly. There is a search of the upper small islands. We got a message from the service and they started a search yesterday. Gala tours took the couple island touring and they have been reported stopping at different locations for meals and sightseeing…then nothing. Gala tours have taken couples to different secluded vacation spots and spent a night or two before but it wasn’t scheduled in the office and they hadn’t got in touch with their base to change their itinerary…we are still checking, Kinsey.

They crashed! I cried.

Kinsey, we don’t know that…

I know that, okay? I will be there as soon as I can. Keep me updated, Pierce. This is my cell phone number…. I rattled it off and hung up and called Chief Marco.

* * *

This had better be good… I heard Marco grumble as he picked up the phone. I don’t blame him. It’s the wee hours on Saturday morning. Weekends were for relaxing.

Chief, I apologize. I forgot the time for a moment. I’ll call you back when I get a flight out.

KINSEY! Wait a minute honey, what is wrong? Marco sat at the side of his bed and ran a hand through his hair.

Chief, I think that Kelsey and Sam have been in an airplane crash. They were taking a tour with Gala flights and the last time charted was when they left an island after dining. That was Thursday evening and they hadn’t contacted anyone yet. The crash hasn’t been confirmed. They are still searching…. I choke back tears. Don’t ask how I know this… but I know they are down and I’m headed there.

Wait…Kinsey, just wait a minute. Marco thought for a minute. Kinsey’s father was gut instinct. The man knew things and he had trusted him as his partner for years. Honey, let me call the airport and get them to prepare the jet and then I will make some calls. Let’s see where the search is right now, okay? Meanwhile, get everyone moving to get ready for a flight.

Yes sir. I whispered.

I sat down abruptly as Maddie put her head in my lap. I absently patted my dog and stared into space as I drank a cup of coffee. I have to get my head together. This is my sister. She has always been there when I needed her. Now, it was my turn.

Kinsey. Caleb stood in the doorway with nothing but his satin boxers on. Any other time that would have had me headed to his arms and thinking of other things. I just stared at him without really thinking. Kinsey, what has happened?

I…I think something bad has happened Caleb. I whispered…too afraid to say it out loud. What if they didn’t survive? Oh Lord…

Cassie walked into the kitchen and looked at the pale face of her best friend. She had heard her earlier and vaguely knew that she was on the phone. She couldn’t understand who she would be calling so early. Kinsey, you look like you’ve seen a ghost. What happened? Cassie looked at the confusion on her brother’s face. Kins, talk to us!

Sam and Kelsey are missing. I whispered and my best friend and my husband hurried to the table to sit next to me. I was dreaming. They were in a charter plane with another couple…they had problems…they were trying to pad Kelsey and protect her. Palms were flying by and then the scene turned black. I called the resort. They haven’t heard from them. The charter service hasn’t heard from their pilots. The resort hasn’t heard from Sam and Kelsey…since Thursday. Caleb, they’ve crashed on a small uninhabited island. I don’t know how I know that they are down and they need us. I leaned against his chest and sobbed.

I’ll call for a flight… Caleb said in a choked voice. None of them needed this. Kinsey without her sister would be a disaster. They were more inseparable than Cass and him.

I called the Chief. He’s getting the jet ready and he wants us to get everyone moving. He’s going to be making more calls and get it set up. He’s trying to get more Intel…

Kinsey, I’ll help you pack. Why don’t you and Caleb go with the agents first and we will rent a place or something and fly in commercial? That will give me time to get the kids organized and bring Jana and Vera as well. Stephen and Sophia, Mary and Bobbie… they can take care of the houses while we are gone then. Come on, honey, let’s get moving so you can get there. Cassie pulled me to my feet. She was right. That would work.

Thanks Cass. I whispered as I ran back upstairs to pack.

Caleb, call Mom and Dad and Liza and Jim. I have Kinsey for now. See if you can throw a quick breakfast together and we’ll be ready when Marco calls. Cass ran to catch up with her friend. She knew that if they kept moving, Kinsey would be okay. She grabbed Madison’s bag as well. She knew that Maddie could find Kelsey and Sam quicker than most bloodhounds. She was also a calming factor for her master.

Cassie and I packed my bags and Caleb’s. She put my laptop in the larger case that I usually flew with and packed a lot of essentials in there. I could research on the flight. Take a shower, Kinsey, I’ll head downstairs after I put the luggage on the lift. Take your time and get your head together. She told me gently. How did I get so lucky?

Thanks Cassie. I sighed as I picked out some clothes and headed into the bathroom.

It’s going to be okay. I don’t know how but I know that some way…this will work out. Cassie looked at me with those big green eyes. I know that she loved Kelsey like an older sister. Corrine, Cassie’s mother, and Kelsey were really close as well.

We’ll find a place for the family and get you guys over there soon, okay? I asked her and she nodded. I know how it is…too choked up for words. She has to be okay, Cass, my heart can’t take anything else. I bit my bottom lip and shook my head. Nothing more to say…God wouldn’t take Kelsey away from me after Mama and Daddy…would he?

* * *

We were in the air at noon and everyone looked pretty solemn. They hadn’t found the plane or our family yet. We all know that this is not a good sign. I was trying to stay calm and my nerves only showed when someone noticed how much my hands were shaking.

Liza came up and sat with me while Caleb went to talk with his folks. She reached out and held my hand and watched the search that I was doing on the internet. We’ll find them, Kinsey, keep your faith honey. Liza said quietly. I stared at my friend and saw her tears. They just have to be… I pushed the laptop away and pulled Liza close. Oh God…why is this happening?

I don’t know. I whispered as I held her and wondered the same thing. Try to rest Liza, it is a long flight. We both laid our seats back and tried... I felt better holding Liza’s hand. We shared a childhood of memories. Liza was our third ‘adopted’ sister and we both loved her dearly. Tough little Liza wasn’t so tough right now. She was pale with dark shadows under her eyes. Who knows why we lose our parents during our childhood? How do you explain the crap that we had been through over the past two years? I would have been dead without Kelsey’s bone marrow…I have no doubt. The AML leukemia was vicious. She has always been there for me. Right now, I just prayed for the chance to be able to tell her that. I prayed for more time….much more precious time with my big sister and Sam. She may be too good of a person for this world but I can’t live in this world without her…I just can’t. Finally, I closed my eyes and slept.

* * *

Caleb looked down at his wife with his heart in his throat. It seemed like Kinsey’s state of mind determined her health. When she was awake she was so animated that she radiated health and happiness. Now, in her sleep, she looked fragile and scared. She was dreaming again. He reached over and touched her shoulder. Kinsey, wake up honey. You are dreaming, baby, you need to wake up. He said gently. Liza woke next to Kins and her eyes got huge. Kinsey came out of the sleep furious. Whoa Kinsey… stop it…calm down and wake up. Caleb had grabbed her fists and then she head butted him and Liza and Jim grabbed her from behind. She may be a little thing but she hit like a man…

Damn Caleb, are you okay? Jim yelled as they struggled to get Kinsey down in the aisle.

Caleb shook his head and waded in. WAKE UP KINSEY! WAKE UP NOW! He yelled in her face. His hands were on her shoulders and wisely he knelt at her side, protecting himself. Finally, her eyes fluttered open. There you are. It was just a dream, Kinsey, it is okay now.

I slowly woke to Caleb screaming in my face. I was being held down by him, Liza, Jim, Corrine and Chet. I must have flipped out in my sleep. Why do I do things like this? I stared at him as I remembered the nightmare;

The plane sputtered and smoked and finally grew silent. The palms had swallowed the Cessna up and no one was moving. It had started to rain and the wind was blowing furiously. I ran from side to side…climbed up a tree and eased inside the side door after prying it open….where were they? The plane was empty.

I stood at the door screaming; Kelsey! Sam! HELLO! Can anyone hear me? Please Kelsey, where are you? The plane was full of blood, front and back… I slid to the ground and sat at the base of the palm tree and buried my face in my hands and sobbed. Where are they? Where could they have gone in the middle of this storm?

I…I’m sorry Caleb. I saw the busted lip and the bruise forming on his chin. Oh God, they are not in the plane! I fell against Caleb’s chest and cried like a baby….. There had been so much blood. The thoughts going through my head just wouldn’t stop.

Then they found shelter, honey. Caleb said as he picked up his wife and sat down in the seat with her. Don’t panic Kinsey. I’m sure they walked back to shelter and fresh water. We will find them. Caleb looked at Liza and saw the tears pouring down her face. He shook his head. They were all going to be too emotional about this one. How could it be otherwise? Sam was like a big brother. Kelsey was like an older sister. They were family and these agents were being ripped apart with the ‘what ifs’…

Do you really believe they found shelter, Caleb? Liza asked quietly. She knew whatever Kinsey had seen in that nightmare totally freaked her out. Kinsey’s dreams were more like premonitions. It was scary how close to reality they were…

I’m sure of it. The pilots were probably hurt…statistically they would be. But, Kelsey and Sam both did the paramedic course. Gavin always packs heavy as far as survival equipment and medical. Caleb stared toward the cockpit and saw Jim staring back at them. He nodded to Liza’s husband and reached for Liza’s hand. We will find them. Liz, try to rest a while longer….

* * *

CHAPTER TWO

Sam woke to a throbbing headache and excruciating pain in his ribs and right leg. His vision was black and it took him a moment to realize that it was pitch black inside the airplane. Looking back, he could see that the tail of the plane was caved in and twisted. What a mess!

Kelsey? He heard her moan and he removed the pillows that were still encasing her. Baby, are you okay? He cried as he checked for injuries. Kelsey had a three inch laceration across her forehead and her arm looked bad. Talk to me Kelsey. Tell me where you are hurt…

Sam…. Gavin moaned from the front. Sam, is Kelsey okay? He saw Gabe fight to get his harness off and climb over to check Gabby. Gabby, wake up. He felt for a pulse and found a strong one. How bad Sam? He glanced back at him. The man looked about as bad as Sam imagined that he did. They were both pretty messed up.

Kelsey moaned again. Sam…?

I am right here Kelsey. We’re down and alive. Now we have to somehow get out of this plane. He looked out the window and saw the trees. I think we might be stuck in a tree. Kelsey, hold real still and let me check you out and then the others. He looked forward. Don’t move too quick, man. Check Gabby out as good as you can. I’ll get the emergency bags. Sam leaned over and kissed Kelsey. He held his towel from the beach against her head. Hold this tight against your head, Kelsey. I’ll be right back. He quickly handed the rest of the towels that they had used at the last beach forward. He looked at his watch and groaned. We’ve been up here for six hours, Gavin. It is four o’clock in the morning.

The next hour and a half Sam and Gavin worked hard to check the bleeding, splint possible fractures and had oxygen on both Gabby and Kelsey. Gabby was still unconscious and Kelsey wasn’t very coherent but at least she was awake. He was hoping it was just the shock of the crash and not a serious head injury that had Kelsey so confused.

Gavin looked back at them. Did any of your cell phones survive? Both of ours are broken. He watched his wife and knew they needed to get her to help.

Kelsey finally found hers and then realized that there was no service. Is the radio out? She asked and the guys nodded. Okay, well it’s simple, we have to get Gabby out of here and the rest of us need to get out also. There’s a litter in the back, Sam, and we’ve patched everyone up as good as we can. If this wind keeps up, it is going to be too dangerous to stay up here. We could use the climbing ropes and hooks and use that bent over palm there to have someone counterbalance the weight and take her down easy.

Sam had to admire her. She was bruised up and she had used a wrap to fix the abrasion and sprain on her left wrist and arm. She had systematically splinted Sam’s leg and Gavin’s left arm. They had a half backboard behind Gabby and she was already secured to that with a cervical collar and straps. It helped for Kelsey to go through paramedic training with Caleb, Cassie and Kinsey. She never lost her cool and her movements were slow and calm. He was afraid to ask about the baby but he had watched her closely and she seemed to not be in any distress yet. She was seven months along now …he was terrified.

How can we do that? Gavin asked in fear.

Well…I’m pretty sure that I can make it out of this window. We’ll lower all of the equipment and supplies down to the ground and then I will climb over there and secure the line. You guys can disassemble the pilot’s seat and remove the back, turn her gently and then put the litter under her and secure her while I secure the lines… Kelsey looked at the safest way out.

Kelsey, you’re pregnant! You can’t do this! Sam cried. The woman scared him to death.

Ya’ think? Kelsey grinned at him. My legs are fine and I’m in the best shape at the moment, Sam. If we counter balance the weight, it will work.

She’s right man. We’re too banged up. Gavin said quietly. We aren’t safe up here.

They watched in fear and admiration as Kelsey set up the lines. They worked on getting the back of the seat off and getting Gabby stabilized.

Kelsey had slid effortlessly down to the sand after all of the lines were attached. Sam, start lowering the supplies and I’ll strap the bags on the balance line and you can try it first, okay? She yelled up to the plane. She was already soaked to the skin as the sun started coming up.

Sam grabbed the line and lowered bag after bag as Gavin took care of Gabby. When he looked over the side, he saw that Kelsey was systematically looping and securing the bags to the line. It was about three hundred pounds of supplies and equipment.

Kelsey, you may have to assist or stand on the bags when we bring her down. Gavin yelled.

Fine, send Sam first and see if it works. He can help me muscle down the rest, okay?

She yelled back.

Sam shook his head. The girls were real tomboys when they were kids...I forgot. Kelsey was almost as bad as Kinsey and it is just now coming back to me.

Yeah, Gabby’s pretty tough too. Gavin looked at his wife. I don’t like this man, she hit hard. She’s the strongest person I know, Sam. I’m scared to death.

We’ll get her down and see if we can find a spot on the island that we can get out on the cell phone. He patted his buddy on the shoulder and climbed out. He couldn’t believe how easy it was to slide down with Kelsey’s system.

They hurried and sent the rope back up. Gavin hook both sides of the litter and ease her out. We’ll hold on until you’re ready. Sam