Diamonds in the Sea

By Shaunna Peterson

Meet Piper Renolds, a newly divorced, single mom to her rambunctious five year old son Jake. Piper is finally getting some normalcy back into her life after the divorce from Jakes father Max, when life throws her a curve ball. Chase, Max’s brother is due home from Iraq, while Jake is delighted in the return of his uncle, Piper is jumping out of her skin with Chases return. The under lying sexual tension between them is electric, but any relationship with Chase is taboo, considering he is her ex-husbands brother. Piper thought her love life was complicated, but she had no idea how her life would be turned upside down when Chase presents Jake with a gift, a gift that will change their lives forever. 

Chase's gift to Jake starts off a chain reaction of events that has ties to, The Mob, Government Conspiracy, paid assassins and mermaids. Yes Mermaid, Pipers life becomes something out of a spy novel when she discovers the existence of mermaids and what her government, among others are doing to this newly discovered race. Secrets covered up with lies, cause this single mom to take matters into her own hands. Piper and her band of misfits, include Chase her ex brother in-law, just home from Iraq. Kadar a paid assassin with a heart and Basel a young fifteen year old boy from Iraq, who has gotten himself in way over his head and who also happens to be Kadar’s son, they all band together for one purpose. To stop who is behind the slaughter and scientific experiments that are being conducted on these creatures of the sea. 

Piper along with her misfits are taken on an incredible journey that takes them across the globe and opens their minds to things they never thought possible. Piper’s life is forever changed when she decides to take on her own government along with anyone who stands with them. Can she do it? Can she change history and help rewrite a new one? A new one that includes the co-existence of humans and mermaids?

• Language: English
• Publisher: CreateSpace
• Release date: Nov 14, 2014
• ISBN: 9781502764775

Shaunna Peterson

Local stay at home mom & inspired writer of fantasy Shaunna Peterson of Tennessee, has released her debut fantasy/mystery novel "Diamonds in the Sea." Peterson, a mother of two & wife to a PC specialist has been working toward publication for five years now.  She has currently released another erotic story in Project Aphrodite: A labor of lust and she recently finished her first erotic fairy tale releases to Shady Lady's website and Amazon on 3.07.15. Two worlds collide in this erotic story. A clash of fairy tales & nursery rhymes. "I have always been the reader, never the writer. Now that I have tasted writing I don't think I can get enough of it. This thirst for writing may never be quenched." Quoted by Shaunna Peterson.Please follow me on Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/author.speterson?ref=hlGoodreads-https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9881983.Shaunna_Peterson TSU-https://www.tsu.co/ShaunnaP And my website-http://littlesizzle49.wix.com/diamonds-in-the-sea

Book preview

Diamonds in the Sea

Shaunna Peterson

Published by Createspace, 2014.

This is a work of fiction. Similarities to real people, places, or events are entirely coincidental.

DIAMONDS IN THE SEA

First edition. November 14, 2014.

Copyright © 2014 Shaunna Peterson.

ISBN: 978-1502764775

Written by Shaunna Peterson.

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright Page

Dedication

Diamonds in the Sea

About the Author

There are a few people I would like to mention and thank.  First off I have to thank God for giving me the inspiration to pursue my dream and keep at it.   Second I have to thank my wonderful husband Shaun, who had faith in my writing, even when I didn’t.  Surprising me with a new and more reliable lap top so I could continue to write and dream.  Third I have to thank my biggest supporters.  My mom who encouraged me to do what I Iove and to follow my dreams.  To Stephanie and Sarah, my own personal cheering squad.  Without any of these people, without any of their support and encouragement, I could have never finished this book.  Writing this book wasn’t about making money, it was about telling a story that people will remember.  A story that people can relate to.  I hope that those of you that have read my story, enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Diamonds in the Sea

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Dedication

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18 

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

There are a few people I would like to mention and thank.  First off I have to thank God for giving me the inspiration to pursue my dream and keep at it.  Second I have to thank my wonderful husband Shaun, who had faith in my writing, even when I didn’t.  Surprising me with a new and more reliable lap top so I could continue to write and dream.  Third I have to thank my biggest supporters.  My mom who encouraged me to do what I Iove and to follow my dreams.  To Stephanie and Sarah, my own personal cheering squad.  Without any of these people, without any of their support and encouragement, I could have never finished this book.  Writing this book wasn’t about making money, it was about telling a story that people will remember.  A story that people can relate to.  I hope that those of you that have read my story, enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Chapter 1

Alarms clocks are evil, but a must have especially if you have children.  I don't know how they do it, but children have some weird internal alarm clock, so even if your physical alarm doesn't go off you can bet theirs will.  That would be my case this morning.  As the alarm from my cell phone goes off with the most annoying ring tone ever, waking me from my peaceful bliss of sleep. I reach blindly for the cursed thing and turn it off, drooping it to the floor and snuggle in to my warm cocoon of blankets and hope for ten more minutes.  Until I hear the door down the hall close and the pounding of what can only be described as a dinosaur making its way down the hall to my room to inform that me that he has awoken. 

Mommy! Jake yells from right outside my door.

Yes Jake.

Are you awake yet?!

I REALLY want to say no.

Yes I'm awake I don't want to be, but I am. I say with a sigh.

Then there is nothing just silence for a few seconds.  Jake are you coming in here or are you just going to stand in the hall in front of my door?  Then he slightly cracks the door and pokes his brown haired head around the corner and gives me the most charming, brilliant smile a five year old can give at seven in the morning.

Hi Mommy! he squeals.  I lift up my cocoon of blankets and just smile.  I give him the signal and he gallops across the room with blanky in hand and jumps in to his spot.  His warm safe spot snuggled right against my stomach in fetal position and snuggles for a few moments as I cover him with my own warm blankets. We just lay for a minute or two in silence and warmth, just the two of us, until Jake says.  Mommy I'm hungry.  I sigh and say. Me too.....I need some coffee.  Jakes response.  Me to.  I lift up the blankets and look at him with a slight scowl, as he knows he is NOT getting coffee, no way, no how.  Coffee is the last thing YOU need.  Maybe some milk or juice, but not coffee.  I reply firmly.

He sighs. OK

Now mentally at this point I have showered, dressed, applied little make-up, got Jake dressed and breakfast made.....that’s mentally.  Then I snap back to reality and realize I am going to need some coffee before any thing gets accomplished today.  As much as my body says don't move I know I have to so I finally sit up and stretch, rub my eyes and start to get motivated.  Jake is already up and pounding with his dino stomping feet down stairs towards the kitchen.  Where does the energy and happiness come from that this kid can produce in the mornings?  It’s almost like a buzzing energy that he can't contain, I find it annoying at seven in the morning. I make my way across my room only to see my reflection in the mirror and it's not pretty.  'But really I mean who is pretty at seven in the morning besides female morning anchors.'  I think to myself.  I continue to stare at my reflection and think.  'You so need a haircut.'  I mentally add it to my list of things to do, which seems to be getting longer and longer since the divorce. 

Ah yes the divorce, my internet whore seeking Ex-husband.  Don't get me wrong Max is a great dad, he spent a lot of time with Jake.  Good quality father son time.  Jake was pretty much the spitting image of his father except he had my hair color, deep chestnut brown, compared to Max’s honey blonde hair.  But his feature were all his dad, brilliant blue eyes, like looking into the Caribbean blue ocean, it was such a display of blue it didn’t seem true, with a strong chin and high cheek bones.  Yup, he was all daddy. But Max as a husband he was in the running for world’s worst when I found his text messages and emails from some hookers he found on Craigslist. That was the last draw for me, there was no way any progress, any good progress could be made by me staying with him.  He nagged, he pleaded, he apologized and made a million promises but I had heard it all before and couldn't subject myself to it any longer, so I made the hardest and best decision for me and Jake and divorced Max ten months ago.

––––––––

I finally make my way down the creaky steps of our quaint little cottage just big enough for me and Jake, we don't need much just each other.  As I am about to step off the bottom stair a black and white blur races in front of my feet scaring the BeeJeezus out of me. Damn it Cloe!  It’s too early for this, do you know where my heart is?  I yell at our third edition to our new family.  It’s entirely too early for cats racing around like lighting and no caffeine in my system.  The cat doesn’t even bother to acknowledge me the only thing in her mind is FOOD. 

Jake will you give Cloe some food?  I will get some coffee and ego's going okay? I yell to Jake as I make my way down the last step. 

Can Cloe have some coffee too?!  Jake asks from the kitchen as I hear him shake Cloe's food....his signal for, COME & GET IT!

Ummmmm no, I don't think cats like coffee Jake. I frown at him as I make a pot of strong coffee, I’m going to need it.  Today Jake's Uncle Chase is coming home from Iraq.  He has been in Iraq for the last year as a paramedic for the Army.  Chase is Max’s younger brother, but even after the divorce we still stayed close and Jake just adores him.

Hey bud are you excited about Uncle Chase coming home today?

YEAH! he squeals.  Last time I talked to Uncle Chase he said he had a surprise for me.....what do you think it is mom?  He ask with curiosity and mischief in his brilliant blue eyes.

I don't know bud, it’s hard to say what he found in Iraq, it could be anything.  What do you think it is?  I ask Jake.

Hmmmmmmm a snake?  A gun?  Jake inquires.

And neither of which you will get, really Jake?  Why would you want either one of those things? I ask him curiously.

"I don't know, what can you get in Iraq mom? He shrugs his shoulders and cocks his head to the side, pondering the gifts he could receive from Chase.

I think to myself, a disease....sand in your butt...killed.  Yet somehow Chase made it out of there alive no scars...no bullet holes, all in one piece.  Jake adores his uncle just as much as he adores his father.  I don't know bud I guess we will have to wait and see.  I say with a smile along with a refreshing sip from my coffee mug.  Buts that’s not going to happen if we don't get some showers and clothes going, so how about you find some clothes while I take a shower?  I suggest to Jake. 

Can I wear my buzz light year costume?  Please mom?  Jake pretty much begs.

Let’s do normal clothes today, we will do super hero clothes tomorrow ok? I plead.

OK.  He yells from the kitchen as I make my way back upstairs to shower. Then Jake yells one more thing before I head to the bathroom. 

Mom what super hero are you going to be tomorrow? 

I think to myself, 'I am already a super hero, I'm still alive and kicking after the divorce so I think that’s pretty special.'  I'm not sure why don't you think about it for me and then we will discuss it when we go pick Chase up, ok?  I can hear Jake mumbling to himself down stairs trying to decipher what would be a good super hero for his mom. 

I finally make my way to the bathroom and turn on the hot water that is sure to bring this body back to life with its healing and magical powers that make me want to never leave this wonderful shower, however hot water can't last forever.  So I pull myself from the shower and dry off with some uber fluffy towels that I splurged on, I never get to indulge, but the towels were so worth it.  It’s like wrapping yourself in warms clouds that radiate heat from some secret place with in them.  I think to myself, maybe Narnia is in there as I giggle at my own joke.  I proceed with my daily morning ritual of drying my hair and little make-up, well normally it’s the bare minimum with makeup but for some reason I feel compelled to add just a bit more lip gloss and mascara, maybe it has something to do with Chase coming in today.  I think to myself, 'Piper that’s absurd, what would a man like Chase see in a recently divorced single mom who is a full time mom and a part time travel company secretary?  What could you really offer him that he can't find somewhere else?  Hello earth to Piper you are recently divorced from his brother!  Why am I even having the conversation with myself?'  I pull myself together and finish getting ready so Jake and myself can go pick Chase up at the airport.  I grab my favorite jeans the ones that make my ass look great, even if I don't feel great and a random t-shirt from my dresser.  Today’s random tee comes from......The Beetles, you gotta love you some Beetles.  Now if I can just find my cell phone, which last time was on the floor near the bed.  I start to put my shirt on when I hear the tell-tale sound of chairs being moved down stairs.  I am alerted immediately.  Jake what are you doing?  I yell from my room upstairs.

A flutterby mommy, a flutterby!  He exclaims.  I forget the phone and made my way down stairs in my favorite jeans, my purple bra(feeling slightly sexy knowing I'm the only one who knows I am wearing it.) and my Beetle shirt in hand.  As I step off of the last stair and round the corner there is Jake standing on top of his toy box that was moved to the kitchen table reaching for a moth that is floating in and out of the lights hanging above the table.

OH MY GOD JAKE!  DON'T MOVE!  OH MYYYYYY GOD!!  DON'T MOVE! I scream.  I then clear my throat and in a tone firm and serious.  I say very slowly.  Jake. Do.  Not.  Move.  I drop my shirt on the floor and race to Jakes side even though I feel like I'm moving slower than syrup. 

Look mommy a flutterby!  Jake is completely mesmerized by the moth, he see's nothing wrong with the situation.  He doesn't see the danger all he sees is a beautiful moth that has him captivated and standing on top of our kitchen table. 

Jake don't move, let mommy get you ok?  He stands still and watches me cautiously reach for him and I finally breathe when he is safe in my arms.

I hold him away from me and look him straight in the eyes and ask.  What were you thinking?!  Do you know how badly you could have been hurt?  DO YOU KNOW HOW BAD YOU SCARED MOMMY? All I can do is hold him close for a moment, furious that he even thought that was okay and relieved that he was safe.  Then from behind us we simultaneously hear a man clear his throat.  Jake and I look at each other and then Jake looks over my shoulder before I have a chance to look myself and plasters one of the biggest smiles I have ever seen cross his face.  I myself, I'm so confused, as I finally turn my head and see what Jake is smiling at I am completely mortified.  There stands Chase, Jakes uncle in our living room!

UNCLE CHASE!  Jake screams in delight.  Put me down mommy, put me down!  He squeals, and wiggles with wild legs.  I attempted to keep hold of my son, as I quickly turn around and shield my body with Jakes tiny toddler body.

CHASE!  What are...?  How did you....?  I stammer.  I look down and realize that Jakes body isn't shielding my barely-there bra, to well.  I look up to see Chase smiling and doing what any man would do, he looks me up and down with a heated gleam in his eyes.

UMMMM Chase give us a sec.  I say as I back pedal to the kitchen with Jake covering my body and park my butt behind a wall so I am not exposing myself to Chase any longer than I already have.  I set Jake down and before he takes off to Chase I ask him, Where is mommy's shirt?  Jake points to the other side of the wall and says. 

Out there. 

Will you go get mommy's shirt for her? He nods his head like one of those bobble head dolls and turns the corner to retrieve my shirt for me.  When he brings it back to me I give him a little kiss on the nose and tell him. You’re my hero!  Jake wraps his arms around my neck and says.  Mommy......your MY hero!  That kid knows exactly what to say to me to make me feel like a million bucks, until Jake follows up with. Mommy what’s a hero?  I laugh at him and told him to ask his uncle Chase he is a hero.  Jake takes off to the living room full speed and launches himself into the arms of a man who just saw some of my naughty bits.  'Naughty bits?  Piper where do you come up with this stuff?'  I think to myself.  Now I must pull myself together and calm the blushing that I feel crawling up my neck to my face. I sigh take a deep breathe put my shirt on finally and turn the corner to find Jake hugging the life out of Chase and Chase just looks at me and says, That was not the home coming I was expecting, but I’m not complaining it was so worth it.  As he roars with laughter. 

You are such an ass! I rebuke with a slight smirk.  How long have you been standing there?  Better question, why are you standing here?  We were supposed to pick you up at the airport in an hour.  I inquire.

I got an earlier flight, I called and left you a voice mail.  Chase says.  Ah yes my phone that is upstairs somewhere in my room mostly likely under my bed, where I would like to be at this moment.  So I plaster on a smile and try to move past this morning’s events...mishaps....whatever they are, and reply.  Lovely, this morning just keeps getting better and better.

When I called and no one answered I figured you guys were still in bed so I just grabbed a cab.

He goes on to say that once he reached our door he heard me scream,(I didn't think I screamed but both he and Jake insist I did) so he tried the door that was unlocked(even better) and when he came in he saw the situation unfold.  He said he wanted to go to Jake but he saw that I was closer and he didn’t want to startle Jake so he remained quiet but ready to move.  Once Chase was able to see that Jake was safe he felt he should, even though he didn't want to, announce himself....discretely.  So the best way he knew how without scaring the hell out us was to slightly clear his throat. 

The look on Jakes face said that he didn't even care about what just happened on the kitchen table, Pipers read completely different once she turned to see that he was standing in her living room and she was standing in...very little!  He couldn't suppress the manly urge to look her up and down and just grin as she tried to cover herself with her five year old son, which wasn't working in her favor as she asks half questions and back pedaled and retreated to the wall in the kitchen that took her out of his sight. He could hear Piper asking Jake about her shirt.  Part of him wanted to hide it, but he was pretty sure this is not how she planned for her morning to go, so he picked up the Beetles shirt. 'Nice!'  He thought. 'Gotta love me some Beetles!'  He handed it to Jake, very quietly so not to embarrass Piper any more than she already has been.  He still thought it was funny.  How everything played out this morning, he was excited to see Jake.  But boy did he get a bonus with Piper in nothing but her jeans and purple bra, purple, lacey, barely there bra.  He thought for just a brief moment, 'Could she have worn that for me?  Chase you must have jet lag and you must have lost your mind, get your shit together and focus here.'

About that time Jake rounds the corner full speed and has launched himself full throttle no holds bar in to Chases arms and squeezes the life out of him.  Piper smiled contently, briefly but contently. 

That is how my morning had started, but no one could have guessed how it was going to end. After tonight the life I knew before was all null and void and the new spinning out of control, James Bond Movie crap life, took its place.  My name is Piper Renolds, newly divorced, single mom and new target for multiple Governments.  Who would have thought?!

******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Piper was hoping that the rest of her day would go better than her morning has.  Between Jakes acrobatic antics and Chases surprise early arrival and her being caught half naked in her kitchen with only her five year old to cover herself with, she thought, really could this get any worse.  After this morning’s events, Piper thought the best way to smooth things over was with some Waffle House.  Chase didn’t seem to be suffering from jet lag and Jake was ready for second breakfast, most people would call it brunch but to Jake its second breakfast.  Besides I can never say no to pecan waffles, Waffle House has the BEST pecan waffles.

Jake go find your sandals, so we can go. She asked Jake.  Jake was in the zone, all he could see and hear was the remote controlled airplane Chase got him.  He was talking a million miles a minute, question after question.

Hello earth to Jake.  Come in Jake.  Can you hear me...over.  I barked like a robot into an invisible walkie talkie.  That seemed to work, Jake snapped out of his zone, picked up his invisible walkie talkie and said, Earth to mommy I can hear you...I..don't...know...where...my...sandals...are...over...mommy. Even at five you could detect the smart ass in this child. 

Why don't you try looking for your sandals and I will try looking for my keys ok...over?  As I give him a please hurry up and find your sandals look.  Jake turned back to his airplane. I was not going to let him slip back into the ignore mommy zone.

Okay I guess me and Uncle Chase will have to eat waffle house ALL by ourselves.  I said dramatically and started looking for my keys.

HMMMMMMM where could my keys be? I say as I tap my finger to my lips pretending to be thinking VERY hard about it.

NOOOOOO!  Mommy you can't eat my waffles!  My waffles!  He screamed reaching for me like he could stop me with some un-seeable force.  Well I guess if you find your sandals you could eat waffles with us.  What do ya say bud?  I asked knowing he would give in and find his sandals.  Jake got up and said, Hmmmmm, I know! He took off up the stairs like a bat out of hell toward his room. 

You knew they were in his room the whole time didn't you?  Chase inquired with a smirk.  That smirk could melt a million candles at once, I know this because that was what was happening to my knees. Every time he gives me that charming and brilliant smile or the endearing wink of his I turn into the shy girl on the playground who has a crush on the most popular boy.  Piper had to gather herself slightly, take a breath and snap herself back to reality.

Yup, but a little independence never hurt anyone.  Piper replied with her own smile. 

Found them Mom!  Jake yelled from his room.

You did?  Imagine that.  Piper said with a sideways glance to Chase.  Did you put them on?  She yelled back to Jake.  NO!  Jake screamed back.  How about you put them on and we go get that second breakfast? Piper yelled back.

KAY!  Jake said back and then there was silence.

That kid is something else. Chase said to Piper as she looked in her purse for something she obviously couldn't find.  Piper turned to Chase with a cigarette hanging from her mouth, You have no idea she replied, as she felt around her front pockets and then her back pockets.  Looking for a lighter he suspected.  For a moment he wished that it was his hands sliding over Pipers thighs and rear.  If he didn't get this attraction for her under control he was going to take her right her in the kitchen. Then the voice of reason crept in to his head telling him, 'Yeah right, only in your wildest fantasies there bro!'

Come on lets step outside so I can smoke, it’s going to be at least five minutes before he comes back down stairs Piper said as she open the sliding glass door to their back patio and shutting it behind them. 

How do you know?

Piper laughed slightly and said, Because he won't wear sandals unless he has matching socks to go with it, it’s a quirk of his. She says with a shrug. 

Matching socks?  With sandals? He replied

Hey, don't judge we all have our quirks, our vices right?!  Piper said with a playful nudge to Chases arm.  Chase swore he felt the hum of electricity travel thru his arm when Piper touched him.  He paused for a moment and thought, 'Does she really have that much of an effect on me?' 

I can see one of yours. he said as he fished a lighter out of his own pocket.  Do you think I could bum one, it’s been way to long since I had a cig. he asked.  Well since your sharing your lighter with me I think I can do that, as she fished her cigarettes pack out her pocket and handed him one.  He leaned in close and lit hers as well as his.  The stood there on her patio in silence just sharing in the sun, the breeze, and the silence.  Chase made it a point to make a mental note of this moment.  She took a drag off of her cig and said.

So what are your plans for your first night back?  Parties to attend?  Family and friends to catch up with?  She asked as she blew out her smoke.

Chase blew out the smoke from his cig and said, "Nope not tonight, I am catching up on sleep, greasy fast food, a hot shower and a soft bed.  Those are the things I have been looking forward to the most.  'And you Piper! Coming home to you.'  He silently added in his head.

That sounds like a good list, add a beer and you are set. She said as she flicked the cherry off her cig and stuck the other half back in her pack.  Chase chuckled and said, Your funny, what’s with the half cig? 

"Oh I hardly have time to smoke a whole one so I save the other half for later, because if I know Jake he should....be.....heading down now.  Just then it sounded like there was an avalanche inside the house.  Chase started to turn and investigate, but when Piper didn’t move he knew this must be normal or at least normal in their house.

Ready?  Watch this he so predictable.

Piper started the count down on her fingers 5..4..3..2.. 

Mommy?!  I'm ready! Jake yells from somewhere inside

WOW that amazing, Chases says.  Piper laughed and Chase thought that her laughter was like music to his ears.  Eh when you live with a five year old you pick these things up. She said with a flirty smile and sparkle to her eye.  Chase thought to himself, 'She must be purposely trying to drive me crazy?'

THUD!

What the......oh Jake hon I'm so sorry I thought you knew the door wasn't open! She said as she raced to open the door for Jake, all the while trying her hardest not laugh, just as a growl of laughter erupted from Chases mouth  Jakes pride was hurt more than anything, he rubbed his nose which was slightly red and crossed his arms.  Then he scowled at both Piper and Chase.

Chase cleared his throat and attempted to reign in his laugher and said.  It happens to the best of us buddy, you'll be ok.  Then he reached down and ruffled Jakes hair.

You okay hon?  Piper asked while still trying to stifle her laughter.

So what’s up? Piper what are your plans for tonight?  Chase asked.  Piper was thrilled it was her weekend.  Since her divorce with Max, they had decided to do joint custody and he spent every other week end with Max.  Piper loves Jake more than life itself but she really did enjoy her alone time.

It's Max’s weekend with Jake so I will be taking Jake over to Max’s later and then I am coming back her to relax and chill, you can imagine I don't get a lot of me time.

Right I get that, would you mind if I joined you?  Relaxing and food and wine all sound good to me.  Chase said with a slightly pleading look in his eyes.  How could she resist that look?

You change the wine to beer and you got yourself a deal. Piper said as she stuck her hand out to seal the deal with a hand shake.  Chase flicked his cig into the yard and accepted Pipers hand in sealing the deal.  Piper felt the butterflies in her stomach, then it dawned on her, this would be her first time alone with Chase. Hell this was the first time she would be alone with any man besides her gynecologist, since her divorce, but she didn’t think that counted.  Of course she had to over analyze everything.  She thought. 'Is this a date?  Or is this just two people who enjoyed each other’s company hanging out?  What was it?!'  She couldn't think about that now, just then she heard the low grumble of her stomach, alerting her that she needs food if she is going to get anything done today.  I think that’s our cue.  Chase says as he turns to head towards the house.  With the sound of Pipers growling stomach they all made their way to the car to head off to The Waffle House.

––––––––

Too much Mommy, too much.  Jake whined to Piper. 

What’s too much hon?

I ate too much mommy, but it was soooooo good I couldn't stop."  Jake said as he pushed what was left of his eggs around on his plate and rubbed his stomach. 

Well how about I drop you two off at the park so you can try out your new remote controlled airplane and I can go back to the house to get Jakes overnight bag ready for his week end at his daddy's?  Piper said smiling and looking from one boy to other.  Chase turned his head and said, What do you think Jake?  Ya want to hit the park?  Jake scowled at Chase and said in a very serious tone, Mommy said it’s not nice to hit so.....NO I don't want to hit the park I like it!  Jake crossed his arms and huffed as Piper and Chase nearly fell into the floor in laugher. 

What mommy?  Am I supposed to hit the park?  Jake asked his mom with confusion clearly reading across his face.

Oh Jake that was great I so need that.  Ummm, no what Uncle Chase means is....do you want to GO to the park?  Not actually hit it.  She explain to her son. 

Sorry Jake I will try to be +clearer next time.  Chase said to Jake who was already over the confusion.  O.k. boys let me grab this check and we are off.  Piper said has she turned in her booth to grab her purse.  I don't think so!  Chase said as he touched her arm to stop her.  Chase really?  It’s your first day back home and you think I’m going to let you pay for your first meal home?  I DON'T THINK SO!"  She said as she scooted from her seat and told Jake to chill with Chase until she got back. 

You know your mom is pretty great right?  Chase said to Jake.  Yeah I know, she plays laser tag with me when dad won't and on Friday nights she lets me stay up late with her and drink chocolate milk and eat popcorn while we watch movies.  So yeah I know my mommy is pretty great!  Jake replied with a smile that could only be described as pure love and joy.  Jake truly adored his mother and she picked up right where Max left off.

You ready for the trip to the park?  Chase asked as he sipped the last bit of orange juice from his glass.  Yup!  Vamanos!

Vama-what?  Chase inquired. 

Vamanos!  Let’s go!  Jake said as he scooted out of the booth, motioning for Chase to do the same. 

Where did you learns that? 

"DORA, BOOTS!  Jake yelled. 

Calm down killer! Okay?  Let’s go get your mom.  They met her at the counter as she finished up.  You guys ready?  Piper asked.

Vamanos Mommy!  Jake barked.  You got it bud, lets jet.

Who is Dora's boots?  Chase whispered in Pipers ear.  The warmth of his breath did thing to her heart, and knees and everything in between.  Whaaaat?  She said with confusion spreading across her face.  Jake said he learned vamanos from Dora's boots, so who is that?  Chase asked with his own confusion.  Oh my bad I get it.  She laughed.  Dora AND boots, ya know Dora the Explorer?  Chase didn't but he was surprised to know that Jake was learning Spanish.  Piper proceeded to explain Dora and Boots to Chase as she drove them to park for a few hours of man time as Chase put it. 

He's five how much of a man can he be?  Piper said to Chase as she glanced in her rearview mirror to see Jake bobbing his head along to the music on the radio. 

So your o.k. you two hanging for a couple of hours by yourself  Piper had to make sure this was something Chase was willing to do, she didn't want to assume that he was ok with just himself and Jake.  It’s not that she didn't trust him, it’s just that.....she knows Jake good and bad.  It’s the bad that Chase hasn't dealt with.

Oh sure no problem, you take care what you need to do, no worries on this end.  Chase said, he didn't even look at her, he was looking forward to it as much as Jake was.  'WOW!'  Thought Piper.  'I will actually have a few hours to myself.  HMMMMMMM what to do?  What to do?  I will figure it out on the drive home.'  She told herself. 

Jake do you want a dollar for the pop machine?  Piper asked her son while she glanced in the rear view mirror in search of her sons eyes. He found her eyes in the mirror, and said, Can I have two drinks?  Pleeeeeeeeeease mommy!!!! 

Sure thing bud you can have all the pop you want!  She said with a devilish grin.  Because you are staying at your dads tonight she whispered under her breath.  But Chase caught every bit it, he laughed at her comment, smiled and said.  That’s wrong on so many levels.  Piper looked at Chase, wiggled her eye brows, gave a really cheesy grin and said, I know! and proceeded to giggle to herself.  Then she thought to herself. 'Chase better not tell Max about loading Jake up with sugar before he went to Max’s house.'

Not a word Chase!  Not one word to Max about this, got it?!  It’s not going to kill him to have to deal with Jake a little hyped up, besides Karma is a bitch."  She whispered the last part.

CHAPTER 2

'JUST KEEP RUNNING!  DON'T STOP FOR ANYONE!  IF ALL ELSE FAILS DITCH IT, HIDE IT.'  Basel told himself as he wove in and out of the tiny back alleys of Baghdad.

Being only fifteen years old it was easy for him to stop suddenly and then take off at a moment’s notice, or turn on a dime.  He knows the streets, these roof tops, he traversed them every day.  But today...today was different he wasn't running because it was a game.  He was running because it was his LIFE.  He was running because he was being chased, or at least he will be chased as soon as they figure out its gone.

Basel was smart, he was quick and he was scared....he was more than scared, he was desperate and he was having to make decisions that no fifteen year old should have to make.  Basel stopped for a moment to catch his breath as he felt his heart was going to thump right out of his chest, he stopped  to listen.  He listened for anything, screams, yelling, anything that would give him a clue as to whether or not they put it together.  Nothing.  Basel thought to himself, ‘Could it be that easy?’  Can this really be happening?’  Then he heard the faint sound of what sounded like a helicopter in the distance.  Basel didn't know how but he KNEW the helicopter was looking for him.  So he did what he did best and he went incognito, he ran the streets, his alley ways, his town, to meet up at the next check point. 

'I'm almost there just a bit further, come on Basel you can do this!'  He told himself over and over.  'These are your streets you know them better than anyone.'  Basel was one block, just one block from his check point when he rounded the corner to find a road block manned by the Iraqi Armed Forces blocking his exit out of town.  He stopped mid stride and felt defeated, he felt his heart stop, he needs to think fast and he needs to do it now without bringing and attention to himself.  So Basel steps to closest outdoor vendor and pretends to be interested in the remote controlled airplane that sits among other toys on the table. 

'I need to ditch it, they are looking for me.  I will have to come back for it!'.  Basel told himself.  He is practically sweating bullets, he can feel everyone’s eyes on him, they know, they all know, he can feel there judgment weighing on him.  Basel waits for the precise moment, and then the vendor turns to see what all the fuss with the road block is about.  Basel doesn't think twice about it, he slips the small computer chip out of his pocket into his sweaty palms and slides it neatly in to the cockpit on one of the remote controlled airplanes.  If you’re not looking for it you will never see it.  He slowly puts the toy airplane back on the table and forces himself to breathe.  He was able to get one breathe out before he was holding his breath again as a member of the US Army is approaching him from across the court yard.  All Basel can do is hope and pray that his heart stays where it is and that he is as good a liar as is grandmother makes him out to be.  Basel smiles and waits for the man to stop him, beat him, kill him, something.  Basel knows what is coming so he braces himself, closes his eyes and prays that it is quick.

'Quick, please let it be quick.'  Basel thinks and then he waits and nothing.  He slowly opened one eye and didn’t see the man, then he opened the other.  Still no man, 'Am I still alive?' he asks himself.  When he turns back to the table he sees the man has approached the very same vendor stations that he was just at, admiring the VERY airplane that he just hid the computer chip in.

FUCK! He screams inside his head.  SHIT. SHIT. SHIT!" he starts to whisper thru gritted teeth to himself.  This was supposed to be easy, all he had to do was make it to the check point and his part was done.  He was in or over his head, way over his head.  Follow, that’s all I can do at this point, as he watches the US Army military member purchase, what is surely his life in his hands.

Basel can now hear that the helicopter is getting closer, the closer the sound of the chopper blades gets, the harder his heart pounded, the more he sweated.  Even if it was 106 degrees out.  The sweat that was being produced was not because of heat but because of fear.  Fear that they would find him and kill him.  But even at fifteen he knew that there were some things worth dying for.  He had to find a way to follow this man.  Basel only has a few moments to figure out what to do and where to go from here.

Chase was so ready to go home.  Home to his bed, his clothes, a real shower and some fast food.  He wasn't looking forward to the thirteen hour flight but the flight is going to so be worth it once he lands on U.S. soil and once he sees her.  Piper was all he could think about when he heard that Max and Piper had divorced.  "I don't deserve her anyway.'  He thought.  But now she was.....fair game, no that sounds like I'm hunting her.  She was...attainable.  Even after Max and Piper divorced they still remained close and they wrote when they could and her and Jake even Skyped a few times. Jake was the smartest, most amazing, vibrant five year old there was.  To Chase, Jake was everything he ever wanted in child. But he wasn't quite ready for kids yet, he still had a lot of living to do and liked the fact that he was an Uncle, so when kids got out of hand he just gave them back to their parents. Not Jake thought, Jake could do no wrong in his eyes.

So when he saw a young boy across the court yard in Baghdad playing with a remote controlled airplane.  He thought.  'Jake would love that!  Piper might not, but Jake absolutely would.'  Chase made his way across the court yard.  He was looking forward to some AC, this Baghdad heat is HELL!  As he approached the vendor he noticed the young boy standing there, cringing as if he were in some sort of pain, yet he seemed just fine moments ago.  The boy just stood there as if he was anticipating something.  Chase looking behind himself to see if there was anyone following him, or something out of the norm.  Nothing, everything was as it should be, except the recent road block, he thought that was odd, 'What’s with the road block?'  Even though Chase found the road block odd he continued past the young boy and proceeded to the vendor’s booth to inquire about the toy airplane. 

Sixty five dinars!  That’s ridiculous!" Chase said.  Chase counters with forty five.  The Vendor shakes his head and go's on the tell Chase of his wife and eight children at home.  Chase thought it was funny that every vendor who was trying to rip him off, all had the same sob story.  Multiple children and wives and usually one on the way.  Chase just wanted to get the gift and get out of Baghdad.

Fifty dinars and that’s it, take it or leave it!  Chase told the man firmly.  The man looked at him thru narrowed eyes but spread a toothless smile across his sun burned and weathered face. 

Deal! the vendor squealed.  My six children.... 

I thought you said you had 8 children?  Chase replied.

"I do, I have twins on the way, the vendor exclaimed.  Even with eight children Chase could see that the vendor was a proud papa, no matter two or twenty two children.  ‘That’s love.  He thought, maybe someday I can find that. 

Chase finishes his deal with the vendor and heads for last bus that sits opposite the vendor’s booth, across the court yard.  It’s the last one that has been merited to leave after establishing the road block.  He is finally heading home and he couldn't be more thrilled at the prospect of seeing Piper, hopefully under different circumstances.

Once Chase arrived at the airport he saw that there was a flight leaving in forty five minutes for the U.S.  'If I haul ass I can get home early and surprise everyone, rather than Piper and Jake picking me up at the airport.’  He thought.  Chase had flown so much he was use to the FDA's procedures and guidelines.  After 9/11 no one flew the way they use to, now you hear of terrorist (suspected) boarding planes with shoe bombs and underwear bombs.  Chase thought sarcastically to himself, 'Boy you have to be a REAL mastermind to come up with exploding under wear!'  He silently chuckled to himself at all the dirty jokes that could come out of the comment.  Chase made all the final arrangements to get his flight changed to the earlier flight.  He thanked the woman behind the counter for all her help, flashed her his million dollar smile.  She blushed slightly and assured him it was HER pleasure.  Chase was actually making good time, so he stopped at one of the airport pay phones to phone Piper.  'I hope she picks the phone up.’  Just hearing her voice could make his day amazing.  But she wouldn't know this number so more than likely it will go to voicemail.  Chase picked up the phone rubbed the ear piece on his shoulder and proceeded to dial Pipers number.

Basel had stayed hidden and followed the man all the way to the airport.  He stalked the man like his life depended on it and it did.  Basel knew that if he didn't get that chip back and it crossed over to American soil and was discovered, that this situation was going to change EVREYTHING!  HISTORY as we knew it would change.  Everything that we thought we knew was all a lie and this one chip could prove it all. This would span the globe and change everything we know about human history.  However if this information got into the wrong hands it could be devastating and is devastating now. Innocent people could be killed and are being killed over what is on this chip.  He knew that he was the only one that could do anything about it, and he couldn't have their blood on his hands, he couldn't allow it to happen.  He knew that at this moment there was no one else, he was their only hope at getting the chip back.  Basel felt the weight of the world on his shoulders, every person, every animal, every piece of organic or inorganic material all weighing down on him, pushing him down in to an oblivion. Breathing down his neck, the weight was almost too much, but how much is too much when you are trying to do the right thing?  'Why is doing the right thing to hard?'  He thought.

Basel had to figure which flight the American was taking.  After scanning the boards he saw that there were only 2 flights to the US today.  'Which one?'  Which one is he taking?'  He thought.  Basel spotted the American across the terminal using one of the pay phones.  Basel thought. 'Here’s my chance to do what I do best....steal or rather borrow.  He will give the ticket back once he finds out which flight the American is boarding.  Basel slowly wove in and out of the people coming and going into the airport. He tried to blend and draw little attention to himself, he imagined himself invisible.  Invisible to everyone and all the cameras.  Basel waited behind some giant fake potted plant.  It had to be at least five feet tall and three feet wide.  Basel laughed at the plant. 'What’s the point in fake plants?  It kind defeats the purpose.'  He chuckled to himself.  Basel watched as the American hung up the phone and grabbed what he assumed was his carry-on bag and headed for the terminal behind him. 

As Chase passed by, Basel ran right smack into him causing the American and himself to fall to the floor in a heap of intertwined limbs.  In the process Chase had dropped his ticket, this was Basel’s moment.

Whoa, hey calm down killer you ok?  Chase asked as he rubbed his funny bone.  'Why do they call it a funny bone?  It’s not funny when you hit it.' He thought.

So sorry, I'm so sorry sir, it was my fault.  Please let me help.  Basel pleaded.  Basel reached for the Americans ticket, looking at it,  it said America, Tennessee.  Tennessee!  Is that where you are from? 

Sure is!  Replied Chase as he pulled himself together and stood back up still rubbing his sore elbow. 

That’s in America right?  Basel inquired. 

Right again buddy. Chase said as he ruffled the boy’s hair.

I have always wanted to go to America, I have heard such wonderful stories of America!  Basel said, blinking his eyes innocently.  He hopes that his act is paying off.  With one last look at the ticket he sees that the American is taking a non-stop flight to Tennessee, what a funny name he thought, Americans and there Yankee names.

Well tell ya what, if you ever make it to Tennessee you look me up ok?  Chase says to the young boy.  He points at his name badge, and says, Private Chase Renolds US Army.  He gave the young boy a mock salute.  The young boy smiles and relies, Sure thing mister, have a safe flight.

Basel waved good bye to the American.  He might actually like this man if it were under different circumstance.  Basel headed to the cargo department, he had to find the flight to America and a way to stay hidden on that flight for the next thirteen hours.

Chase thought that the young boy looked familiar but he couldn't place where he had seen him.  Either way, he was eager to head home, he started for his terminal and remember this is a non-stop flight, he better grab a snack before he boards his plane.  Water and a pack of peanut butter crackers is about as good as it’s gonna get around here.  Chase made it to his terminal, and gave the flight attendant his ticket.  He could barely contain his excitement about going home but he had thirteen hours to think about it.  Once on board he found his seat and was amazed to find he had a window seat.  Yes! he whispered to himself, it was truly luck that he was able to get a window seat on such short notice.  Chase stored his carry on in the compartment above and tried to get comfortable in his seat.  'Unless you are flying first class I don't think anyone is truly comfortable in these seats.'  He thought to himself.  Chase was settling down to try and nap some of his flight, hopefully it would make his flight go by quicker.  Chase was hoping that no one would take the seat beside him so he could enjoy the extra space, but he saw now that there was a catch to having the window seat.  Just as Chase was about to raise the arm rest, a woman, a BIIIG woman stopped right at that very seat.  Chase looked up at her, thru her double, no make that triple chins to see a set of kind eyes and a soft smile.  Chase leaned back and offered her the seat with a gentle smile.  Chase thought inwardly, 'Now I know why it was so easy to get this seat.'  I wonder if everyone else knew who they would have been sharing it with, because he obviously didn't.  Chase was hoping and praying that she wasn't the chatty cathy type.  She tilted her head in acknowledgement and took her seat slowly, trying to shift her weight into the seat.  After some adjusting she seemed settled.  Chase kept to himself during all the preflight instructions, as did his flight partner.  Finally the airplane started to make its way down the runway.  Finally some forward progress to home.  With a sigh he leaned his forehead against the cool glass of the plane, closed his eyes smiled with thoughts of Piper and Jake in his head.

Once Basel left the American he found his way to the cargo department, it wasn't hard.  Here he is invisible no one gives him a second look or questions him about being in areas of the airport that the public isn't allowed into.  Basel thought he was going to have to empty out someone’s bags and stash himself inside, until he heard barking.  'Barking in the cargo area?'  He questioned.  Hmmmmm this might work. he whispered to himself.  He made his way toward the barking, making sure to avoid the security cameras.  Then he found it, three to four covered kennels that had dogs in them.  They were about five feet tall and about four feet wide. 'I could deal with that he thought, but what kind of dog am I dealing with and where is it going?'  He looked inside one of the kennels to find a black chow, he almost blended in with the darkness of the kennel it was hard to judge how big he really was, but he seemed friendly enough.  The second kennel contained a salt and peppered old English sheep dog, it had already created puddles of drool inside his own kennel.  Basel didn't want to travel that way if he didn't have to.  The third kennel contained a black and brown basset hound, He was the one doing all the barking.  He wasn't happy about the kennel and he was making sure everyone knew it.  All the dogs were friendly, but he had to choose a campion to ride with for the next thirteen hours.  He was lucky all the kennels were going to the same place.  America, and non-stop just like the Americans ticket.  Just then Basel heard voices coming from the far end of the cargo warehouse.  ‘Screw it I’m riding with the Chow he can at least conceal me in the darkness of the corners of the kennel and with all his fur.’  Basel went to the cage and stuck his hand out for the dog to smell, the dog hesitated for a moment and then licked his hand.  Good boy, see I'm not gonna hurt you, I just want to tag along for a bit ok? Basel said softly to the dog.  He carefully unlock the kennel, trying to make as little noise as possible, he didn't want to alert anyone, and ruin his chances of getting on this flight.  He slowly slide inside the kennel and crawled to the furthest corner of the kennel, curled up on the floor in fetal position.  Basel could hear voices getting closer, and he could hear the sounds of footsteps approaching their area.  Come here boy, come lay with me.  Basel coaxed the animal over to his corner, Basel patted the floor of the kennel and motioned for the dog to lay down.  The dog turn three times before settling down in the corner practically on Basel.  Concealing Basel with in the darkness of the dark kennel and the equal darkness of the chow’s fur.  The men were close, he heard parts of the conversation but not much.  Something about a bar, and a girl, and holding someone’s hair all night.  Basel thought, I'm glad I didn't hear the whole conversation.  He could hear one of the men checking the locks at the other end of the ware house.  They were checking the kennels locks one by one.  Basel’s hearts was beating so fast and hard he was sure these men could hear it.  He willed his heart to slow down, talking to himself trying to calm it.  He slowly stroked the dog and held his breath as he heard the footsteps at his kennel.  He could hear the metal on metal clank of the lock being pulled.  He held his breath, eyes closed, muscles clenched tight, until they left or until they discovered him.  The chow slightly turns its head in the direction of the strangers that were inspecting his temporary home.  He let out a huff and then returned to his original position.  It’s as if the dog somehow knew that Basel’s life was in his hands.  He seemed aware of Basel's situation and kept him hidden.  The men walked away from the kennels, Basel could hear the voices getting fainter and fainter until he heard the slam of a door on the far side of the ware house and then nothing, just the insistent bellowing from the basset hound three kennels down.

Thanks boy!  Said Basel to his new travel companion.  You’re a good boy, aren't ya?!  Basel said as he scratched the dogs head, and the dog returned the favor with sloppy wet kisses to his face.

OK, OK, that’s good, that’s GOOD!  He laughed, but only lightly we can't attract any attention to a kennel with human laugher coming from it.  He smiled at the dog and said Come on bud let’s try to get some sleep.  Basel snuggled himself into the smallest ball he could form and tried to make his body one with the darkness and the dogs fur.  He hoped to wake in America, at this point all he