Hidden Agenda

By Claire Plaisted

Joseph Garrett and his two Harvard colleagues enter into a business in 1977. Joseph and Kevin are Genetic Researchers while Henry is a Lawyer.
Kevin Truit seems to think the world owes him and he starts to play god trying to create a human with advanced genetics. Joseph Garrett notices something is going on and investigates finding a world of prostitution, women sold at auction, experimental drugs and Kevin's genetic experiments. Right in the middle of this is the woman Joseph loves. Will she survive? Will Kevin succeed? Will Joseph be reunited with the woman he loves? Read more to find out. Please note this book has explicit sex scenes in it.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Plaisted Publishing House
• Release date: Apr 23, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310749742

Claire Plaisted

Claire Plaisted grew up in the small historical town of Sandbach, Cheshire, England with two older siblings and loving parents. At 19 she moved to the town of Colwyn Bay in North Wales and it was from here that her adventures began with her first holiday abroad on her own at age 21. New Zealand was the destination and this is where she met her husband to be and eventually moved to in 1991. Married with four children, sadly losing their youngest child. Claire engages her time in bringing up her children along with family history research. Starting a small hobby business in 2010 to format and print Family History Books for people. It was during the formatting of one book Claire opened a word document while waiting on receiving information to finish her latest project. Her first novel was born. Though this Regency Mystery Romance novel is yet un-published Claire learnt a lot about the writing world. Writing novels of many genre, her writing has now taken over her life during the week. With six books published as e-books and four paperbacks, Claire is getting ready to publish her first Regency novel, book three of GIB and another childrens story.

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Hidden Agenda

A Garrett Investigation Novel

Claire Plaisted

Copyright 2014 Claire Plaisted

All Rights Reserved

License Notes

No part of this book may be reproduced,

scanned, or distributed to any printed or electronic form,

without permission.

Please do not participate in or encourage

piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights.

If you feel you have received a pirated copy

of this book, please remove it and purchase a copy legally

Published by Plaisted Publishing House Ltd

New Zealand

First Edition 2015

Third Edition 2022

Formerly Joseph's Story

Acknowledgements

To Sharon Houltham and Tina Hill, the only two ladies who read my first draft and told me it wasn’t over-done and it was in context for who

I was portraying.

Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Epilogue

Author Bio

Discover more Books by this Author

Contact Claire Plaisted

Prologue

Harvard University Graduation Day 1973

The speeches were over at last. They’d all received their degrees. Loud cheers, huge smiles and everyone, threw their graduation caps into the air in jubilation of graduating after years of hard study. Now they needed to decide what to do with their futures, where would they go, who would they be? Who were the lucky ones with Internships? Grinning at each other, back slapping and kissing their girlfriends, the graduates left campus, joining families and friends for a meal and parties. Laughter filled their time together as reality began to sink in.

Within two weeks they were no longer laughing, life with an Internship was going to be hard work. It was all right for Henri Haier and Kevin Truit they were backed by money, as for Joseph Garrett well with his degree in Bio-technology and Genetics the world could be his oyster. He just needed a door into a research company. His name was not enough.

Henri followed the family tradition becoming the third-generation attorney at law. Thrilling times ahead as the laws changed, trials becoming more complex. Picking out jury’s got more twisted though Henry was always satisfied when he put criminals away. His excellence at winning lawsuits brought in new clients, the Haier & Sons Group grew.

Kevin Truit was a complicated young man who thought the world owed him. His dream was to improve human genetics. His god-like complex would one day be his undoing. Truit was soon working his internship at a private laboratory for the government where he pushed genetics to the extreme, though finishing his internship he ending up losing his employment. Things were to change big time! The god complex was about to rear its ugly head.

Meanwhile, Joseph Garrett settled into an internship with a major scientific company researching new drugs to eradicate disease in the African continent. He hated seeing people disadvantaged by money making companies. This eventuated in him leaving his employment and turning to his second favourite subject of genetics. He was to find his job in genetics with his former university friends.

Two of these young men formed a company called ‘Truit & Haier’. While setting up their business, they became aware their friend, Joseph was without a job.

Chapter One

Wearing his old black overcoat Joseph Garrett shuddered at the wild weather outside his apartment; it looked like they were in for one hell of a storm. He knew this meeting would be a big step for him. Working with his best friends from university would be a blast. He’d missed them over the last four years. Henri was working in Manhattan Central, Kevin a few blocks away from Henri, as for him, well he’d been over in Texas. Now back in New York he felt at home once again. Places to go, things to do and see, family and women to date. A small smile on his face he opened his door, putting on his cowboy hat with a grin, he caught a cab into Lower Manhattan to see what this new venture of Kevin’s was all about.

Walking around his spacious office with stunning New York views, Kevin turned to Henri. Do you think he’ll work with us?

I don’t see why not. We’re offering him a type of partnership which has superb remunerations. He’ll be able to research what he wants as long as it’s legal and I’m sure you’ll have projects together as well, Henri smiled.

Yeah, I have a few pet projects thanks to your funding, Kevin grinned. I can’t wait to take the world by storm.

Which I’m sure you will, Kevin, he laughed.

Excuse me, Sir. Mr Garrett has arrived.

Send him straight in please, Amy, he grinned.

Calm down Kevin you’re like a little boy getting a new toy.

He’s a top-notch scientist, Henri. We’re going to have great fun researching if he accepts our offer.

Joseph walked through the door a smile on his face.

Joseph, it’s great to see you again, certainly missed the fun we all used to have, said Kevin shaking his hand.

Hi Joe, looks like you’ve done all right for yourself, I’ve read some of your papers, pretty impressive, said Henri.

Thanks Kevin, Henri, he replied shaking Henri’s hand firmly. So what’s this all about, you mentioned in your call you have a need of me?

Sit down Joseph, we may as well get comfy, Kevin replied indicating the sofa.

Nice office Kevin, typical you too, you always did like the skyline.

Not a bad start I must admit.

So what’s all this excitement about? You mentioned a new venture?

Well, I’m sure you saw the sign. Our company’s called Truit & Haier Engineering; however, it is Bio-technology investigating and advancing human genetics. We’ll have various scientists working with us once we’re well established. We hope to take our pick of the top young scientists straight out of university in the not too distant future.

You’re obviously planning on making a big splash, Kevin, Joseph replied.

A splash, yes, just not too big at first, he laughed.

What do you need with me?

Joseph, you’re heading to be one of the top genetic researchers in your field, he exclaimed.

You always out did me though, Kevin, he said with quiet amusement.

If we both work together, I know we could outdo everyone, he smiled.

Calm down Kevin, laughed Henri. Sorry, he’s been like this all week ever since you said you’d meet with us.

He’s always been like that though, Henri, Joseph smirked.

Will you join us, then?

What’s the deal, do you have paperwork I can take away with me to peruse?

Yes, said Henri, I’ve sorted the details, he said handing Joseph an envelope. I think you’ll like what’s in there quite a bit.

Opening the envelope, he took out the documentation scanning over it frowning then his jaw dropped. You want me as a silent partner, he murmured.

Yes. All I need you to do is read through, have a chat with me about any changes we may need and sign the bottom, which we will, of course witness, replied Henri.

You’re offering an awful lot, guys.

Well, it’s a private business though we’ll apply for some government work and funding as the necessity arises, said Kevin.

You’ll also be able to research any projects outside of genetics if the funding and time are available. We do hope you’ll join us, Henri said.

Right, I’ll take this with me and have a good read, I’ll let you know by Friday. Maybe we can book a restaurant for the signing, which I’m sure will happen. He laughed. After all, I trust you guys, though legalese is not my speciality Henri, so I’ll need to go through this with careful eyes.

You always were the cautious one, Joseph. Kevin said, standing up. Thanks for dropping in, I’ll get Amy to call you with restaurant details.

Brilliant, he said shaking hands. Look forward to seeing you both on Friday.

Joseph left in bemusement, documentation in his briefcase as he took the elevator down. He was a bit suspicious about their generosity, so hoped he’d given himself enough time to check it all out.

Well, that went really well, Kevin. I think we may just have our first top scientist, well other than you, of course, he laughed.

Yeah and don’t you forget it Henri Haier, he grinned.

Joseph certainly had a lot to think about, this could be his luckiest break or his biggest mistake. Sitting back in the cab his mind wandered back to their university days, They’d been great competitors in science at Harvard. Kevin usually beat him six times out of ten in most science areas. It had been hard to handle at first, though they’d soon become friends, the competing became fun instead of war. Henri was an old college friend of Kevin’s, they’d gone to a private college in upstate New York, whereas Joseph had jumped hoops working hard, winning scholarships. Even at Harvard he didn’t have quite so much fun as the other two due to working to pay for his extra fees and expenses. Mind his family were proud, which was all that counted.

Arriving back at his apartment, he settled behind his desk pulling all the documentation out of the envelope starting to read, noting comments on a pad beside him. Sighing, he still couldn’t understand the partnership; ok he had his expertise, though he still wasn’t a rich man. Deep in thought, he didn’t hear his phone ring; it went to answer machine where a female voice said.

"Joseph Shawn Garrett pick up your phone, I know you’re there."

Blinking out of thought, he grabbed the phone a huge grin on his face. Hi mom, how are you?

"Don’t you hi mom me young man, tell me how your interview went?"

Went well thanks, mom. You caught me reading through the contract, he grinned.

"You just make sure that contract don’t bite you, son."

No worries mom, I’ll get my attorney to double check it tomorrow.

"Good," she exclaimed.

How’s the family?

"Everyone’s fine, we’re just worrying about you, son."

I’m good honest mom, give my regards to everyone. I’ll come over at the weekend if I take the job we can celebrate in style.

"Let me know then, Joseph."

Yes mom, he smiled. I’ve a couple of things to think about, love you, bye.

"Bye son."

Kevin was in his element, he knew Joseph would take the contract offered with a few adjustments; he’d be daft not too. Shoving in his pockets he walked out of the building enjoying the wind blowing around him. He needed to celebrate and there was only one way which would really do for him. He needed a woman. Hailing a cab, he was dropped off at his favourite club where anything goes. Smiling, he walked up the steps opening the door which slammed shut behind him. It was quiet at the moment meaning he could take his pick. He always enjoyed a good woman, liking them with firm ample breasts, small waists and an insatiable appetite. Standing at the bar, he ordered his usual martini, watching the women wondering who he’d pick this afternoon. He was already hard, anticipating the coming enjoyment. Selecting a woman, he watched her work. Her mass of blonde curls sprang around a lush face. She was dainty to look at with few curves. Her breasts were her best feature; perky and high, nipples standing at attention each time the thin fabric brushed against them. He’d enjoy burying his face right there.

Smiling, he continued watching men put their hands up her skirt, smacking her bottom, feeling her heat, which he decided he was going to be his. Finally, her attention swung his way, smiling with a slow, sultry smile she swayed over to him. She was tiny, only coming up to his chest and that was with high heels on. Groaning quietly, he smiled at her; his anticipation increasing tenfold.

Good afternoon Mr Truit, how are you today, she said her silky voice touching his nerves making him shiver.

Hello Puss, he smiled gently stroking a finger down her cheeks to her throat. I was hoping you’d be working today.

For you Mr Truit, I’ll always be here, she replied breathlessly looking up into his face. For you Mr Truit, she said fingering a shirt button, I’ll do anything.

Would you care to join me for a drink, Puss?

Private or… she suggested with a warm smile.

No wonder I enjoy you so much Puss, he grinned, right to the point as usual.

Picking up his drink they walked across the lounge to the private rooms. What do you fancy today Mr Truit, she flirted

I’ll let you chose Puss since I’m in such an excellent mood.

Taking him by the hand, she led him into room five. Smiling, his shaft throbbing with excitement of his afternoon’s entertainment. An excellent choice Puss, shall we get started my dear, he said picking up a pair of cuffs his eyes on a spreader bar, looking down at her. Puss was already standing naked in front of him. The games had begun.

Henri was cheerfully working through a case in his office, there was nothing more he enjoyed than researching for his clients, taking people to trial and seeing they got their just deserts. Henri was getting a reputation for been deadly in a courtroom, anything thrown at him he’d swipe aside making the jury see the full truth. He loved every minute.

His fiancée was his other love. A gorgeous slim brunette, her beauty astounded him. He couldn’t believe his luck. She was the woman of his dreams. Smiling at her photo on his desk he got back to work. Another murderer to put away, evidence was going to be a bit harder to find this time. Muttering under his breath, he read the latest reports from his assistant when there was a knock on his door.

Enter, he called.

Phillipa entered his office, a smile on her face. She placed his favourite lunch on his desk. Phillipa was dressed in a designer trouser suit of charcoal grey with an opaque olive green mandarin style blouse. She looked good enough to eat.

How did I get so lucky, he smiled as he stood up, walking around his desk he kissed her in full view of the staff making her squeak pushing him away.

Henri, don’t, she said shyly with flushed cheeks.

You spoil me rotten Phillipa, when will you marry me, he murmured.

I told you darling, when I turn twenty-five and not before.

He groaned in frustration, just wanting her in his bed. Thanking the lord her birthday was only six months away after which she would be his for good.

How’s your day? she said sitting on the corner of his desk as he sat back down to eat.

We met with Joseph this morning; it looks like he’ll join the company. I look forward to introducing you to him.

A handsome man then, is he? she asked her eyes twinkling down at him.

Phillipa behave, you’re mine, he laughed in outrage.

Of course darling, she said smugly, well I better get a move on, I have work to do for University.

University, I look forward to them day’s been over.

I look forward to receiving my degree darling; then on to that wonderful internship I’ve been offered.

So you’re going to take it, then?

More than likely Henri, she said leaning forward kissing his cheek.

You know you don’t have to work.

Yes, I know darling.

I’ll see you for drinks at my parents tonight Phillipa.

Of course, so many things to organise for our wedding, she gave him a serene smile.

Rolling his eyes, he sat back watching her sway out of his office taking her heady perfume with her.

The following morning, Joseph met with his attorney giving her the employment documentation.

So I presume it’s a good job offer, Joseph? she said in query.

Yes, it’s possible it’s too good Sara; which is why I came to see you.

Nice to know I’m useful for something, she mumbled.

Growing up with you has been an adventure to be sure, Sara.

Thanks, she laughed. Ok, let’s see what you’ve got here.

Frowning she read the paperwork, her head on one side as she took in the enormity of what they were offering and what they expected. It would make Joseph, a wealthy man. She knew they were all good friends at Harvard, so she’d expected something. However, this was astounding.

Wow Joseph, they sound rather desperate to get you into their labs.

Yeah, makes me wonder why?

There’s nothing which says run Joseph, the confidentially clause is simple and to the point. The partnership blows me away.

Yeah, so what do you think, Sara?

Jump for joy, she laughed. Did you make notes when you went through it?

Yes I did, he replied handing over his queries.

When do you have to let them know?

Tomorrow night is when I sign if I sign though it will be with amendments. Henri may wish you to drop them off at his office.

I can arrange that, Joseph, and I’ll ask Mr Haier to courier you a copy before you sign.

Thanks Sara, he said leaning forward kissing her cheek.

Anytime Joseph, she sighed watching him walk out of her office, wishing he’d take notice of her other than as a friend.

Kevin was pleased with himself; things were coming together far faster than he’d thought. Once he’d got Joseph on board, he’d organise where the laboratories would be. He wanted a real space, modern and on the outskirts of the city. Down by the River Hudson would be great. Starting the proceedings for the next step, he rang a friend he had in the real estate business.

Hey Justin, how are you, it’s Kevin here.

"Hey, long time since we heard from you, how you going?"

All good thanks. I’m looking for a space close to the river Hudson for my business, do you know of anything going for lease at the moment?

"Yeah, we got quite a few leases around Kevin, with companies having a downturn and some closures, buildings are going empty," he replied. What sort of space do you need?

Small to start, wouldn’t want to fail before we start, he laughed.

"You fail! Now that would be an eye-opener," he laughed. Ok, give me the details.

Will need reception, offices and laboratories, those are my main criteria.

"Hang on while I look Kevin." Smiling, he knew his mate would have a few for him to view. Here you go we have three close to either the Hudson or East River. The first’s in Upper West Side, the second is Kips Bay and the third is in West Village.

Are any setup with medical labs or similar?

"Two are within the medical realms though you’d need to redesign the laboratories, the third, would require developing.

Ok, so which two are medical?"

"Upper West Side and Kips Bay, here are the addresses, go have a look."

Thanks Justin, I owe you.

"Yeah, you do, I’ll call you in on that sometime soon."

You do that, Justin, he laughed. Thanks again, and I’ll let you know on Monday.

"Great, bye," said Justin.

Kevin looked up just as his receptionist, Amy, walked in.

Mr Truit, I’ve booked you into Teddy’s Steakhouse on Broadway, said Amy, I presumed it’s just the three of you?

Yes, Amy and thank you, could you let Henri and Joseph know.

Yes, Sir.

I’m going out for a while Amy, need to check some properties out.

Good hunting, Sir, she smiled.

Thanks, if I’m not back by six could you lock up for me?

Yes, Sir, she replied.

Of course, he never got back to work again, though he did look at both buildings, liking the look of Kips Bay. It was set on the East River and would be acceptable enough for a start, though the place would need redesigning. One day he’d like his own compound where he could control everything. The frontage was lovely not that he expected many clients or visitors, most would go through the back door. Smiling, he got into his car driving to see Puss, the most delectable woman in his world. God, she’d served him well yesterday afternoon. Maybe he should give her a treat today, picking up his car phone he asked Amy to book a suite at Distinction Hotel for the evening due to a meeting he’d organised for the property.

Arriving at the club he asked for Puss, learning her whereabouts he walked down the hallway to room four, watching through the peepholes along with other men, she was being fucked by a client. God, he was a noisy bastard grunting out loud as he pounded her hard. The prostitute screamed; the man followed suit his loud grunt making the other men snigger.

You’re a great fuck lass, he said slapping her ass. Dressing, he left. Smiling she stretched, getting up to shower readying for her next client.

Shows over boys, she’s mine for the next eighteen hours, he told them smirking.

Lucky bastard, they muttered wandering away.

Opening the door, he wandered in as Puss walked out of the shower.

Well, if it ain’t Mr Truit, she chuckled with delight.

Get dressed Puss, we’re going out for the night, make sure you’re wearing something sexy and not too indecent, he chuckled sitting on her couch. I don’t want too many men’s tongues hanging out for you.

Oh, Mr Truit, that does sound exciting. she said in a sultry voice. If you’ll give me ten minutes; I’ll get ready, she continued; dropping her towel to the floor. Puss sauntered to her wardrobe in just her thong, her firm bottom swaying from side to side as she tried to decide what to wear. Holding her favourite