Typed and Cross Matched

By Eileen Baroni

At the age of fifty, Bob is in his prime. Being a journalist for a leading paper takes him around the world uncovering some of the most dangerous stories in history, but nothing could prepare him for the journey hes about to take.

While driving his Jaguar down a straight stretch, he sees a shadow on the road. Not knowing what it is, he swerves to the left then looses control. He is taken to the nearest hospital where he receives four units of blood and undergoes surgery for the broken bones.

Several days later, he notices a small change in his personality. Over the next four months, he continues to change into someone he doesnt know. He questions is it because he realizes hes not immortal or is it from the blood he received?

With the help of a friend who works in the blood donor department, he researches case after case of donors and recipients. His findings are alarming. It becomes apparent that his research wasnt meant to be uncovered. Someone who has way too much to lose has to eliminate him before any information can be revealed.

Has he discovered the means to create a super human being...

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Nov 29, 2012
• ISBN: 9781477290255

Eileen Baroni

Eileen Baroni is an inspiring new writer, both in fiction and non-fiction. She has thirty three years of experience in nursing, which brings a twist to her writing. Ten of those years were spent as the CEO of a non-profit charitable organization that she implemented in her home town. She has one son and two grandchildren whom she adores. She likes to read, cook, sew and work in her flower garden. Throughout life, one important message she has learned is that nothing is impossible. With that knowledge, she brings humor, mystery, suspense and romance together for her readers to enjoy. She will capture your attention from the start then keep you hanging on till the end.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

Dr. William McIntyre and his wife Kathleen had left Europe and come to the U.S. shortly after WWII. They settled in New York where William did his internship then opened an office in Family Practice. Once he became established, they moved from the inner city to Long Island where they started their family. Bob was the first born of three children. He was four when his sister was born and six when his brother came along. William had hoped that one day Bob would follow in his footsteps and become a doctor, but Bob yearned for excitement and adventure. He couldn’t see himself cooped up in an office.

*     *     *

Memorial Day started out as any other day. Bob woke up around 6:00 a.m., stumbled into the bathroom, dressed then went into the kitchen to make a pot of coffee. After a few sips of the piping hot brew, he grabbed a towel and bottle of water then headed out the door for his morning jog. He breathed in deeply then slowly exhaled, keeping an even pace. His stride portrayed a man of confidence who knew what he wanted and how to get it. His mind went blank as he enjoyed the occasional blast of sunlight shining through the trees and the crisp, cool breeze of a late spring morning. Two laps around the allotment then one mile out and back would complete his three mile run.

At the age of fifty, Bob was in his prime. A six-footer with a thirty-four inch waist and the shoulders of a wrestler, he looked at least a decade younger. That life at the gym, those years of jogging, and the sweat that poured from his flesh . . . . they spoke of a hardened athlete, not a mere newspaperman. His brown eyes sparkled with a subtle hint of mischief that drove women wild. His thick black hair, hauntingly streaked of grey, added to those solid, seasoned and sultry looks.

Bob lived in a gated community in Long Beach, New York. He was a journalist for one of the nations leading papers. He was considered the best in his field and loved what he did. Investigating the unknown and revealing secrets took him to places he’d only dreamt about as a child. Exploring the world while uncovering some of the most dangerous stories in history was a way of life he’d grown accustomed too, but it wasn’t all work. Somehow he managed to leave a trail of broken hearts from one continent to the next. Seducing young women for a moment of self-gratification was a game he played. The words, I Love You, were crucial to keep a good lay hanging on, but they were only words as far as he was concerned. When long term plans crept into the conversation, it was time to say good-bye and move on.

Being faithful to one woman wasn’t in Bob’s agenda. He liked variety too much to settle down, although he’d come close once when he was thirty. Olivia had been perfect in every way. She was too good to kick to the curb. One evening in the heat of the moment, Olivia insisted that they get married. Bob agreed it was a good idea even though he knew he’d never be true to her.

The engagement lasted three years then Olivia ended it. She’d thought with a little time he would change but that didn’t happen. She wanted more than a part time relationship. She accused him of being insensitive to her needs and in love with himself, which would leave little to no time for a wife or family.

Their split was shocking to everyone but Bob. He knew it was inevitable. His sister Liz thought it a shame that her brother wouldn’t grow up and take on the responsibilities of someone his age, but Bob was only worried about self preservation and his toys. Once Olivia was out of the picture he found the freedom he longed for. He was a master at the game of deceit and manipulation.

Bob’s self image filled all aspects of his life. Inside his three stall garage sat a dark blue Jaguar convertible for use on nice days. Next to the Jag was a black BMW for everyday excursions. His pride and joy was parked on the end and hardly ever driven. It was a bright red 1976 Corvette. He received the ‘little red bomb’, as he called it on his sixteenth birthday. He’d asked for the car several months earlier and would have been greatly disappointed if he hadn’t gotten it. Along with the vehicles, he also had a Donzi 35 ZR docked at a marina not far from his home.

He occupied a three thousand square foot house that was chosen with his mother’s help then decorated by one of her friends. The entire abode was done in soft hues of browns and blues with large screen TV’s mounted on the walls. The scent of leather awakened your senses as soon as you entered the front door. He’d specially ordered the couch and two recliners from Tuscany on one of his many trips to Italy. Rich mahogany tables with inlays of marble complimented the décor and gave an inviting atmosphere.

Keeping his mind and body youthful was part of scoring with the women. Foods rich in anti-oxidants filled the refrigerator and pantry along with cases of bottled water. Fast food wasn’t an option. His favorite eatery was Tim’s Health Food Bar which was a few miles from the office. Most of his meals were eaten there with the exception of when he had the pleasure of escorting a beautiful young lady out on the town. Then his choice was a fine French restaurant, tucked away in a corner near Times Square. The menu offered exquisite cuisine which gave him the chance to show off his flair by speaking fluently from the list of options. Earning brownie points would come in handy later in the evening.

Bob rounded the last corner with sweat dripping from his brow. Out of breath, he glanced at his watch. He had just enough time to take a quick shower then get ready to leave for his sisters’. Liz was having a cookout at noon. He wondered why he hadn’t told her that he was going to be busy that day or out of town. That was his usual excuse. He didn’t like family nor wanted to be bothered with them. If it weren’t for holidays he wouldn’t have seen them at all.

After showering, Bob dressed then took one last glance in the full length mirror. Everything looks good so let’s get this over with, he said out loud. He walked down the hallway then grabbed the bag of gifts for the children. He was on his way out the door when the phone rang. It was Elise, the newest addition to his long list of loves. She was five-foot-seven inches tall with legs that seemed to have no end. He’d met her a month earlier at his favorite gourmet coffee house in the heart of town. She was a paralegal for a small law firm, but her occupation was of no concern to him. Bob’s interest had nothing to do with brains. His curiosity laid a little lower. She’d called to invite him over for a quick roll in the sheets. He looked at his watch. He thought Liz wouldn’t mind if he were a half an hour late. He reasoned that was better than not showing up at all.

The day was beautiful. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky so Bob decided to drive the Jaguar. He turned the key. The sound of the engine roaring gave him an adrenalin rush. He ran his hand along the steering wheel then let out a sigh of contentment. He put the top down then rounded the corner at the end of the street doing fifty. Once on the highway he floored the gas pedal to see what she’d do. Within seconds the speedometer read eighty-five then continued to climb. With the sun on his face, he turned the radio to his favorite station then tapped his fingers to the beat of Bob Seger’s, ‘Old Time Rock and Roll.’

Fifteen minutes later, Bob was pulling into Elise’s drive. She had the garage door up in anticipation. He let himself in then walked toward the bedroom. I’m in here, she whispered seductively. He stopped then turned toward the living room. Elise was lying on the floor with one arm propped on a pillow. Her naked body lured him to come closer. As he drew nearer, she licked her lips. Desire grew as he unzipped his pants then let them fall to the floor. Elise crawled toward him purring like a kitten. He dropped to his knees then kissed her passionately as their bodies became intertwined.

Several minutes later, Bob lay on his back panting with beads of sweat glistening on his chest. Elise playfully ran her finger tips down his stomach then circled and came back up. She was ready for round two.

Don’t, Elise, I have to go.

You can stay a little longer, she whined as she swung one leg over his stomach then straddled him.

He pushed her off then grabbed his pants and got up. He was zipping his fly when his cell rang. He thought it was probably Liz until he saw the number. It was Sasha from Beijing. He grabbed his phone, told Elise it was an important call, then walked to the bathroom and closed the door.

Hello Sasha, he whispered.

Hi, Bobby, I can’t wait to see you again. I miss you so much. I’m counting the hours until next Thursday. Do you know what time you’ll be flying in?

I’m kinda busy right now. I miss you too. I’ll call you later tonight when I get home.

You sound out of breath. Are you alright?

My sister is having a cook-out and I was playing with my nieces and nephews.

Tell your sister I said hello.

I will. Talk to you soon. Bye.

CHAPTER TWO

Bob buttoned his shirt then tucked it into his pants. One swipe through his hair with the comb and he was ready to leave. He walked into the living room then bent down to kiss Elise good-bye. She was lying on her stomach waiting for him to return. She thought she could entice him to stay a little longer but he’d gotten what he’d wanted and was more than ready to leave. He waved as he turned then hurried out the door.

He sped down the highway then turned onto a two lane street. Another ten minutes then he’d be there. He was going to be a little later than he’d thought, but Liz would understand. Over the years, his tardiness had become a family joke along with the excuses. He usually said, something unexpected had come up, but his family knew his unpredictable behavior more often than not involved a woman. His father would nod with approval while his mother would roll her eyes. He smiled as he thought about the family cook-outs of the past.

His father and mother had both died in an auto accident two years earlier. Dr. McIntyre had retired nine months prior to the accident. They hadn’t been to Europe in more than twenty years. They had kept in touch with their family and friends by phone but had longed to see their homeland once more before they were too old to travel. His mother had begun making plans shortly after his father stopped working. They were on their way to the airport when their vehicle was side swiped forcing them off the highway and over an embankment. They had both died instantly on impact.

Bob pulled into the drive then sat quietly for a few seconds as memories flooded his mind. His last conversation with his mother and father had been a heated one the night before they were to leave.

He begged them not to go. The bitterness he felt was eating him alive. How could have they been so insensitive to his needs. He told them both; it was a total waste of time and money. He pointed out that none of their relatives had made an effort to come to the United States to visit them so why bother, but he was more concerned about the amount of money they would be spending. A vacation like that would surely affect his inheritance, but his mother had the last word. She said they were going whether he liked it or not and that they would see him when they returned. She then hung up.

His anger was rising when his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the children laughing and screaming. He had to make an appearance and pretend that everything was all right. He grimaced as he got out of the car. He opened the gate then walked in. He smiled as the children ran to him squealing in delight. They ran with open arms for a hug and to see what surprises he’d brought. He held the bag behind his back.

Hi Uncle Bob, the six-year old said as she looked around.

Hi Abby, he said. What are you looking for?

I know you brought me something.

Oh, I’m sorry. I was in such a hurry, I forgot, he teased.

A look of disappoint came over the children’s faces. Then he dropped the bag on the ground behind him.

I knew you didn’t forget, Abby squealed.

Bob watched and waited for approval as the children rummaged through its contents. An assortment of DVD’s and CD’s along with a variety of candy bars was being tossed from one to another as each found just what they wanted.

Liz observed from a distance glancing at her watch. He was more than an hour late. She had started to worry. He hadn’t called to say he was running behind but he never did. In spite of his lack of respect for anyone and his reputation as a playboy, he was still her brother and she loved him dearly.

Liz had three girls and was pregnant with the fourth. Their ages were two, six and ten. Andrew had four boys, ages seven, ten, twelve and sixteen. The children looked forward to seeing their uncle Bob. The fact that he always brought gifts may have had a little to do with their excitement.

Bob walked over to where his sister was standing and commenced with idle chit-chat. He told her that the children had grown at least six inches from the last time he’d seen them. That was Liz’s cue.

If you visited more often, the children wouldn’t seem to grow so fast.

Her comments fell on deaf ears.

Where’s Andrew? Bob asked.

He’s in the house watching the game with Dave while I’m out here hovering over a hot grill.

Where’s Patricia? Bob asked.

She’s in the kitchen preparing the salad.

I’ll tell the guys you need help. He tried to sound serious.

That’s ok, she said. Let them have their fun.

Bob knew his sister well and how she loved to cook and entertain. Even though she complained, she wouldn’t have had it any other way. He shook his head then entered the house through the back door. Patricia, his sister-in law was standing over the sink cutting vegetables. He said hi as he grabbed a handful of carrots then made his way to the family room. Andrew and his brother-in-law, Dave, were sitting in front of the television watching the last inning of the ball game. Andrew glanced up.

Hi Bob. What have you been up too?

Nothing much, how about you?

Andrew jumped up, dumping the entire bowl of chips onto the floor. Oh no, he yelled, That’s another run you just gave up. Someone get him out of the game.

Bob took a seat then joined in on the bantering. Andrew’s team was losing. The game ended six to five. The television was turned off. The men continued to discuss the plays as they headed out back to join the women.

Liz and Patricia were putting the finishing touches on the table. Thanks for all your help, Liz said to Dave as she put the platter of steak-ka-bobs on the table. Dave pretended not to hear her comment. He continued to defend his team. They were in a serious debate when Bob’s cell rang. It was Debbie. He excused himself then walked away to take the call.

Hi, Debbie, I was just thinking about you, he said.

Would you like to come over and have an early dinner with me? She asked with a deep southern drawl.

I’m sorry, I can’t. I’m at my sister’s. In fact we’re just getting ready to eat.

Well then, perhaps you’d like to stop by for a little dessert when you get done there.

I’ll give you a call when I leave here.

That would be nice.

Talk to you soon, Debbie. Bye.

Bob returned to the group where he was the last one to grab a plate then go through the food line. He looked over the array of meats, vegetables and desserts. After choosing what he wanted, he grabbed a seat next to Andrew. Dave said grace then everyone enjoyed their meal. The men talked about work and sports while the women discussed the latest television shows. The day was turning out better than what Bob had anticipated.

Hey, Liz, are you and Andrew in a contest to see who can have the most kids? Bob teased.

Liz put her hands on her hips.

That’s very funny, Bob.

Andrew held up his hands. Four is enough for me.

Liz seized the moment. When are you going to start a family?

No thanks. Bob laughed. I’m happy with the way things are.

Yes, I bet you are. Not having to account to anyone must be loads of fun, Liz said. Don’t you want someone to grow old with?

Well, let’s see. Hmmm, no I don’t think that’s on my wish list, Bob said sarcastically.

The subject was dropped then the adults sat back and relaxed while the children ran through the yard playing tag. When the sun started to go down, Liz lit the hanging lanterns. They talked until shortly after 10:00 p.m. then the guys helped clean up. Andrew and his family said their goodbyes then Bob said he was leaving also. He gave Liz a quick kiss on the cheek.

As usual, you did a great job Liz. I had a good time.

I’m glad you enjoyed yourself. Try not to be a stranger.

I’ll give you a call soon, he said.

Bob walked to his car then slid into the driver’s seat. He was thinking about Debbie with an unquenchable desire. He turned the key then backed out of the drive. He headed for the highway. He thought about calling before stopping but decided to surprise her. He gained speed while going down a straight stretch. There was a shadow ahead on the road. He couldn’t tell what it was. He swerved to the left then lost control. He hit a pole, flipped over