H.A.L.O: High Altitude Low Opening

By Derek Hart

When orders came through for David Lockhart to gather his team together for another top-secret mission, he thought nothing of it. It came from the proper source, within proper channels, encoded with the latest series of ciphers. Everything seemed in order. It was not.

The mission was a one-way ticket to oblivion and the ambush MESA walked into took every life of the team. All except one. Yup, you guessed it. David Lockhart managed to shoot his way out, a combination of skills, training, and a beautiful woman.

For the perpetrators of this betrayal of one of the most successful covert teams in American history, David Lockhart's survival was not a good thing. No, it was not a good thing. For now Lockhart was mad. Not the raging, red-faced, out-of-control, irrational type of mad. You see, David Lockhart wasn't like that. His anger was far more dangerous, for his outlet was directed at planning, cold and calculating analysis of what went wrong. Just be certain that revenge would be his.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jul 1, 2003
• ISBN: 9781462075676

Derek Hart

Derek Hart is the prolific author of 28 action and adventure novels, known for their historical accuracy, while still maintaining a high level of entertainment. Romance is also a vital part of Derek Hart's trademark style and his novels generally appeal to men and women alike. Mr. Hart authored Secret of the Dragon's Eye, his first novel aimed at all age groups, which met with instant success and outstanding reviews. The author has since followed with Secret of the Dragon's Breath, Secret of the Dragon's Claw, Secret of the Dragon's Scales and Secret of the Dragon's Teeth. The final volume of the 6-episode series, Secret of the Dragon's Wings, will be available in November of 2018. He has since started a new series, post-apocalyptic in nature, with Minerva's Shield and Nike's Chariot. The third installment, Apollo's Plague came out in November 2017. Abandoned was published in March 2018 and Game Over premiered in June 2018. List of published books: Secret of the Dragon’s Eye Secret of the Dragon’s Breath Secret of the Dragon’s Claw Secret of the Dragon’s Scales Secret of the Dragon’s Teeth Secret of the Dragon’s Wings Claws of the Raven Danger Cruise Favor for FDR Crooked Cross Factor Tracks of the Predator For Love or Honor Bound Tales of the Yellow Silk Element of Surprise Seas Aflame Ice Flotilla High Altitude Low Opening Tangles of Truth Shadows in Replay Flag of Her Choosing Tidal Trap Dangerous (Poetry) Executive Firepower The CARLA Conspiracy The Wreckchasers Minerva's Shield Nike's Chariot Apollo's Plague Abandoned Game Over Mercury's Wings Before the Dead Walked Books coming soon: The Samuel Clemens Affair Pearl and Topaz By the Moon Darkly Broadmoor Manor Neptune's Trident Operation Sovereign Primary Weapon Saturn's Fire Tails of Thaddeus Enchanted Mesa Eagle Blue Last Guidon Excess Baggage Container Carta Codex Shipwreckers Romeo Tango The 5x5 Gang Desert Salvage

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All Rights Reserved © 2003 by Derek Hart

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or by any information storage retrieval system, without the written permission of the publisher.

iUniverse, Inc.

For information address:

iUniverse, Inc.

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Lincoln, NE 68512

www.iuniverse.com

ISBN: 0-595-28706-9

ISBN: 978-1-4620-7567-6 (ebook)

Contents

Foreword

Preface

Acknowledgements

Introduction

PROLOGUE

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

About the Author

More Critical Acclaim for Derek Hart

Dedicated to black lace thong panties,

steaming hot showers, pimento-stuffed green olives

and sharp cheddar cheese sliced with a credit card.

Foreword 

I was listening to the radio

I heard a song reminded me of long ago

Back then I thought that things were never gonna change

It used to be that I never had to feel the pain

I know that things will never be the same now.

I wanna go back

And do it all over again

But I can’t go back I know

I wanna go back

Cause I’m feeling so much older

But I can’t go back I know.

I recall hanging out on Friday night

The first slow dance

Hoping that I’d get it right

Back then I thought I’d never ever stand alone

It used to be that a lonely heart was never shown

I know that things will never be the same.

—Eddie Money

Preface 

There is no more hollow victory,

than the one you cannot share with

someone you love.

Acknowledgements 

To Koko Kuzmanoff, who provided critical research and documentation, including editorial assistance and her proofreading skills. Koko is not only the best friend in the world, but she also manages to be the author’s biggest fan. Derek is forever indebted to the sacrifices she has made on his behalf and the gifts from God she so readily shares. One day she’ll discover it was always more than just words.

To Todd Sirmans, who is responsible for the plot idea and for hours of debate, discussing all the great conspiracy theories of the 20th Century.

To Alistair MacLean, Hammond Innes, Douglas Reeman, Jack Higgins & Robert E. Howard: all authors who have a tremendous influence on Derek Hart.

Cover art by David M. Burke

Introduction 

In the shadows of the intelligence world, illegal operations and political terrorism happen with startling frequency. Yet the best agents are the ones you will never hear about. The rules of this cloak and dagger game are fuzzy, but the players are as diverse as the missions they’re assigned to. For the most part, operatives are extremely loyal and willing to lay their lives on the line for their belief, country, or cause. Agencies around the world recruit and train men and women who are intelligent, resourceful, and dedicated.

Yet within even the most secretive organizations, there is yet another level hidden deep within budgets and operations and departments. This often-denied element is commonly referred to as Black Ops, because of the black pen used to cross out budget expenditures allocated for such illegal covert operations. Throughout modern history many incredible military breakthroughs were initially buried within black operations, such as stealth technology and the super-quiet Seawolf submarine.

However, HALO is the more personal story of the grunts of the covert world—the assassins. This breed of expert killer is at the heart of any illegal mission around the world, where a sniper may deal death with a bullet, or a bomb might explode in the victim’s car. No matter what method is used to deliver the message, the end result is supposed to be final.

Their motives were as simple as they were complicated. Yet when the target was locked-on in the cross-hairs of a rifle sight, the impact was always monumental. Here then is the story of one such member of the killer elite.

PROLOGUE  

Atlanta, GA The Way It Used To Be

The most difficult thing in life is to see the one you love, loving someone else.

—Anonymous

The telephone rang. David Lockhart jumped. He despised the sound of a ringing phone, which was why he kept the nearest one as far away as possible. Unless it was her, he had no intention of answering it. Tilting his head slightly, David monitored the call.

Hey, David, a friendly male voice spoke on the answering machine. I’ve got a training contract for you, so…

Lockhart decided to pick up the receiver anyway. Hey, Ron, I’m here.

Hey, old buddy, the voice came from the other end of the line. I’m glad you picked up. I landed you a training gig in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Know where it is?

Yes, Ron, I’ve been there a number of times.

Great. Well, you need to book a flight today, because you’re lined up for the day after tomorrow.

David looked at his calendar on the corkboard above the desk. The days required for his four-day sessions were all open. Thanks for the short notice, Ron.

Sorry, David, but it’s a great opportunity.

That’s okay, I’m open. Which course am I facilitating?

Your favorite, Ron replied. Decisive Leadership in These Dangerous Times. Did I get the course title right this time?

David chuckled, in spite of his mood. Yes, Ron, right on the nose.

I negotiated your top fee, too, David, Ron added. I prefer the commission when you present that course.

David smiled and asked, Who gets my expertise?

Kokopelli Minerals, Ron said. They have tons of international employees, with locations in Brazil, Argentina, Panama, Mexico…

I’m familiar with them, Ron, David cut him short. Their US headquarters is in Albuquerque. I used to know somebody who worked for them.

Good, then you’ll take it? Ron asked.

Yes, Ron, I will. I’ll book my hotel, pack my materials, and catch a flight today, if one is available. Who’s my contact when I get there?

Jeff Kalahari, Chief Operating Officer, Ron said. I’ll handle all the details. Just show up with your smiling face, winning ways, and knock their socks off. Okay?

Thanks, Ron. I appreciate the business.

I bet you do. Another fat paycheck, courtesy of Ron Weaver.

I owe you a beer. Wanna join me in New Mexico?

No thanks. You can buy me a cold one when you get back.

Okay. David hung up, and then strolled into the closet, where he picked out a polo shirt and slacks. His thoughts once again returned to her. Even after three years, he could still feel Debra’s moist lips, the way her tongue danced lightly along his. He closed his eyes, imagining those same lips working their way across his body. She always took his breath away, eliciting a throaty groan of pleasure. David managed to sit down on the edge of the bed, the replaying of erotic memories taxing the strength from his legs. Debra was the most fantastic lover he had ever dreamed of. She totally involved herself with mutual pleasure and could take anything he had to give, and then some.

Damn it! David shouted suddenly, jumping to his feet and hurling the clothes across the room. Debra, why?

There was no answer, of course. The entire house felt lonely now, not that she had ever been there often enough. David felt frustrated and angry. Was there anything he could have done to change her mind?

Of course, but what exactly would have made the difference?

David stared angrily at the image in the mirror. Nothing up to this point had prepared him for falling so deeply in love. He hadn’t gone looking for anybody, especially with all the traveling he did. In fact, Debra Ferrara had just appeared by accident, attending one of his training sessions from out of town. She had seemed professional, intelligent, and so poised. They talked over the lunch break, grabbed a drink after the session concluded, and shared some conversation over dinner. That was that.

Months later, however, Lockhart accepted a consulting position at Teadle Merriwether, as their corporate development expert. As it turned out, Debra worked for them too, as their Human Resources manager. The connection was re-established and before he knew it, chemistry developed rapidly. Then one day, as David was driving them back from lunch, he pulled to a stop at a traffic signal. Without any hesitation he leaned over and kissed her. Not only did Debra not respond negatively, but she kissed back and very passionately. He was so breathless with desire, that David had trouble driving. One thing led to another and they became intimately involved, which of course led to more profound questions about love, life and marriage.

David closed his eyes, desperately trying to hold onto the wonderful images. God, how was it possible for a woman to do those things to him? She could talk about anything for hours and he was fascinated. Her vitality led to David’s redesign of several of his training symposiums, much to the improvement of his feedback forms. In short, Debra was the catalyst for a renewed sense of creativity and value in his life. He had fallen deeply in love with her.

Debra, I love you and I will love you forever, he said with desperation while getting up. I miss you terribly and I want you to know one thing. If we never made love again, I would still love you more than anything. You were and are everything to me. Like a giant puzzle, being apart from you is like losing all the middle pieces. I’ll never be the same.

David got dressed then, focusing on taking care of chores around the house, and then he went to get his dry cleaning and pay bills. As he drove, his thoughts revolved around Debra again and he couldn’t help but smile. He whistled several tunes that had memories in their lives together. The errands only took a few hours, so when David returned to his home, he started to pack for the trip. That process only took an hour and he didn’t want to stick around, which would just lead to moping.

With a certain resignation to his stride, David strolled out to the waiting limousine, sitting back to reflect. Before he knew it, he was at the Hartsfield terminal building. David went straight for the ticket counter, which was surprisingly vacant and picked up his ticket. Even though he had time to spare, Lockhart went through airport security, patiently standing in line while his carry-on bag and briefcase were scanned.

In the D terminal, David headed to one of the fast-food vendors to grab a bite to eat. Just as he got in line, he saw her.

Debra? David said with tremendous surprise and joy. She was so beautiful, breathtaking, in fact. She had fantastic legs, which were highlighted by the custom-tailored gray suit and heels.

The woman in question heard her name. She turned around and was visibly startled by his presence. Debra politely excused herself from the group of men she had been talking to. With a brisk pace, she crossed the aisle, stopping only a foot from him, her body language entirely defensive.

Hello, David said warmly, for he was genuinely thrilled at seeing her again.

What are you doing here? she demanded, her voice unfriendly and full of suspicion, an angry fire burning in her big brown eyes.

David was unprepared for the hostility. I’m catching a flight, of course. Isn’t that what most people do at airports?

Debra still eyed him suspiciously. Where are you headed?

Albuquerque, he answered, feeling the bite in her voice. I got a contract with Kokopelli Minerals just today, for a presentation the day after tomorrow. So, I booked the first available flight out. How about you?

It’s none of your business, David? came her retort.

The venom at which it was delivered stung and Lockhart winced. He pushed the bags along the carpet, as the line moved forward, then held up his hands in defense. Okay, Debra, I’m sorry I asked.

Her manner softened somewhat, almost as if the act of being angry was too much for her to maintain. I’m sorry, David. I’m being a bitch. I just wasn’t prepared to see you again. Ever.

Look, Debra, David blurted. I didn’t know this would happen. I don’t want to spar with you. I love you and I want to be with you, under any conditions.

Are you crazy? she said, her voice wavering with emotion. David, I never wanted to hurt you, but if you keep pushing this, you will force me to say spiteful and wicked things. Why must you provoke me?

David reached out and took hold of her elbow. Do you love me?

Debra rolled her eyes. What difference does that make?

David was close to losing whatever patience he had left. The last thing he wanted to do was lose his temper. It makes all the difference in the world to me, Debra.

Her features relaxed and a sad, melancholy smile crossed her face. David, I have told you before, with all the conviction I can muster. I loved you more than any man on this planet. I loved you more than you could possibly imagine. I have never loved, nor will I ever love again, like I loved you. I will love you to my grave and beyond. You must believe in that and cherish it. But it’s over.

He could only nod, but her words chased away so many doubts. Thank you, he said finally.

David, what we shared was beautiful and I will never forget it, she went on, this time the emotion vibrating her voice. I have always done battle with guilt, though, you know that. To love you is one thing, to take action based on that love, and not take the consequences into account, was purely immature and irresponsible. There were issues and when I couldn’t trust you, it was time to break up. I wish you the very best.

Is there hope for us? he asked, no mistaking the little boy voice.

Debra shook her head. Someday I will probably regret my course of action. But for now, I just want you to leave me alone. No cards, no gifts, no phone calls, nothing.

I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt you.

I know that. This is painful for both of us. I know you love me, David. Of that I have no doubt. And if you love me, than you will let me go, you will honor my wishes.

David wanted to fight for her, to charge up the hill and slay the dragon, or black knight, or whatever demon was keeping them apart. That seems like emotional blackmail, Debra. What would you say if I had said, ‘If you love me, you must do this or that?’?

You’re right, David, I’m setting the rules. You’ll just have to accept that this is what I must do. It isn’t fair, but it’s what you must accept. I never expected you to like it. I only asked that your love for me included respecting my needs at this moment. It may all change in a few years.

Or never.

Possibly.

He hung his head. Okay, I get it. David took Debra’s left hand, squeezing gently. He loved to look at her fingers, how healthy and long her nails were. Her power resided in her hands. Then, with tremendous effort and willpower, David took a deliberate step backwards. I’ll go now and respect your wishes, but only because I love you so much I’m willing to let you go. Perhaps we will find each other again.

Perhaps, David, Debra said.

I will always be just a phone call away, Debra, David added, his bottom lip quivering.

Lockhart was going to break down, so he let go of her hand, picked up his bags, and turned his back on her. Quickly walking away, he blindly went down the main corridor. By the time he reached his gate, his head throbbed and he was numb. In the rush to escape the overwhelming feelings that assaulted him, David had forgotten to get something to eat.

Aimlessly he wandered around the boarding area, until his flight was called. At the aisle seat in first class, the flight attendant took his carry-on bag and made him feel special. As he settled back in the seat, the pretty blonde fussed over him a little.

Would you care for something to drink? the flight attendant inquired.

David looked at his watch, realizing he hadn’t slept for a long time. A Bloody Mary, please? He needed something with a jolt.

She smiled, pulled out a small can and flipped open the tab.

With lime, please, David added.

She smiled again, nodding and dropped a slice of slightly withered green citrus into the glass. Here. The refreshment was passed to him.

Thanks, he replied, taking a sip. Can I add some vodka to that too?

She giggled, Oops, with a pleasant and warm laugh, as she fished around for the little bottle.

He settled back with the drink, his mind immediately replaying the painful meeting with Debra.

Four days later, Lockhart was packing up his training materials before heading to the airport. The training seminar for Kokopelli Minerals went very well and Lockhart’s feedback forms reflected glowing praise from the senior executives. He was so well received, in fact, that a bonus check was delivered to him as well.

However, once back home, David decided he needed a vacation. He could use some time to clear his head and take stock ofhis emotions. He picked up the telephone and called Ron Weaver, his booking agent.

I’m going to take some extra time off, David spoke into the phone. I haven’t been to Rio for a number of years, so that’s where I’m headed.

Ron Weaver agreed with his decision. I think that’s great, David. You’ve been working very hard and I’ve noticed a bit of a short-temper breaking through.

Stress, Lockhart said. He said goodbye and hung up.

Who are you kidding? he mumbled to himself. Nothing will ever be the same without her.

He packed his bags, booked a flight for Rio de Janeiro and returned to the airport, hoping that a few months far away from his usual routine, might do him wonders. Lockhart slept for most of the flight, though he didn’t feel rested upon landing. Once checked into the Caesar Park Ipanema 5-star luxury hotel, he strolled along the seashore, flitting in and out of the shops and boutiques. No matter where he went, however, David kept discovering things he wanted to buy for Debra. Still, he managed to refrain.

Tiring of window-shopping, Lockhart followed the sound of music coming from the wharves. Several local musicians were playing Latin dance numbers and Brazilian folk songs. David took a table across from the band, ordering a drink and trying to relax.

Three gorgeous, tan, and well-endowed young women slowed down as they walked by his table, moving their hips to the sassy beat. As much as Lockhart wanted to pay attention to them, the voice in his soul kept speaking Debra’s name.

There was a miniature circus operating nearby, capturing his curiosity with catchy music and flashy female dancers. So he got up and joined the crowd. The young women were all stunning, with incredibly shaped bodies and erotic movements. The throng that gathered was mostly made up of men, admiring the scanty outfits and hoping they would be invited to join the dancing.

Lockhart’s attention was abruptly pulled away by the arrival of a man decidedly out-of-place among all the revelers. David watched him, wondering why no one else had noticed him.

The man stood by the merry-go-round, dressed in a black suit, black shirt, and ubiquitous black tie. His head was shaved smooth and as the sun glistened off the top ofhis oiled head, he looked out from behind reflective sunglasses. Suddenly a strikingly beautiful woman joined him.

It was Debra Ferrara. There was no mistaking her.

Hand-in-hand, the couple walked leisurely to an awaiting powerboat, climbed aboard and sat down, as the speedboat pulled away from the pier. Lockhart quickly closed the distance and watched the craft cut effortlessly through the waves to its destination. It was on a small isthmus jutting out into the bay, with a nice palatial house built near the beach.

After doing battle with himself for over an hour, Lockhart made up his mind. Traveling a little ways further down the jetty, he stopped to talk to one of the boat owners.

Excuse me, do you speak English? Lockhart asked the man scraping old paint from one side of his fishing boat.

Yes, the man replied warmly. What service may I provide for you?

I would like to hire you to take me out to that island," Lockhart replied, pointing to the site in question.

The man looked, but then frowned deeply. "It is private property. Senhor Waldman does not like visitors."

Lockhart pulled out a wad of American dollars. I just want to pay a visit. You can wait for me, because I will only be a few minutes. Let’s say two hundred dollars for your time?

The engines turned over with a noisy growl, smoke billowing out of the small stack. Lockhart tried to sit, but his nervous stomach did summersaults. The trip took about thirty minutes, for the going was much slower than Waldman’s impressive cigarette speedboat.

Once at the private dock, Lockhart reassured the fisherman that he would return shortly. David sprinted along the wooden slats and up the stone steps. Even in the midst of his bravado, he was well aware that he was trespassing.

And just exactly what are you going to say to her? he questioned himself.

At the front entrance, instead ofknocking, Lockhart just tried the door, which opened onto a stunning foyer, with polished black-granite floor and luxurious rugs. He hesitated for a moment, but then heard a woman’s voice, followed by gentle and warm laughter. It was unmistakably Debra’s.

Just then, she came down the hallway, directly towards him.

At the top step, she froze, her face twisted in surprise and shock. It lasted for only a second, before being replaced with a vampish sneer.

Debra stood there, naked except for a man’s shirt, which she wore carelessly, her breasts partially exposed. Her aura smelled of sex and the pure look of mischief on her face made Lockhart wince. He moved closer, but had lost the edge.

And who the hell are you? spoke a male voice from his right.

David was startled, turning. He looked from the stranger, only clad in a towel around his waist, to the woman he thought he knew. Debra? The hurt welled up inside, like being punched in the stomach.

She looked directly at him, then through him, expressionless now, but said nothing.

David was shattered, devastated by the revelation that he was no longer the most important person in Debra Ferrara’s life. He tried to focus on the man, who now had a gun pointed at Lockhart’s chest.

I won’t ask again. Who are you? the man demanded. The gun never wavered.

David Lockhart, David answered with a slight stutter.

Well, this is my home and I don’t care much for people entering uninvited. The gun lifted slightly until it was pointed at David’s chest.

David nodded. He was so shocked to find Debra there and under the circumstances, obviously having sex with another man. While his heart and soul didn’t want to believe it, his mind was accepting the obvious. He quickly cast a glance in her direction, but Debra had gone out onto the patio, where she was smoking a cigarette. Her back was to him. He couldn’t be certain, but it appeared as if she might be crying.

‘I should hope so, you bitch,’ David thought to himself. How could he have trusted her so completely? Then, like another vicious punch again to his gut, he was overcome with a sense of guilt. He still loved her, so internally he berated himself for such wicked thoughts.

I’m not sure what to do with you, Mr. Lockhart, Waldman spoke up. Rank amateurs usually get themselves killed. You are apparently no exception.

Look, sir, there’s no doubt I have made a terrible mistake, Lockhart said. I didn’t come here to rob you or break into your house. I came after her. He pointed in Debra’s direction.

The man seemed confused. You crossed over to my private estate just for her?

David nodded, setting his jaw with a scowl. Seems hard to defend at the moment, but yes, I came to find her. We used to be close, very close. I’m very much in love with her and when she broke it off…well, I guess I’m a sore loser.

Waldman nodded. I see. The barrel lowered a tad.

I really don’t blame you if you blow me away, David came back. I’m trespassing, breaking and entering and anything else you can think of. The local police wouldn’t ask too many questions.

The pistol lowered even more. Well, I think I’ll skip whacking you, under the circumstances. Debra’s my woman now, buddy, so I suggest you get your butt off my property right now, before I change my mind.

Lockhart hesitated, but only for a second. He walked out, never looking back.

Less than a week later, David Lockhart started to slip into a serious state of depression. He changed so dramatically, that friends and business associates alike