Miracle: A Robert Avalanche Novel, Setting the Stage

By Benjamin Joseph Bramble

The Glicksteins, the worlds first trillions monetary family. Their financial and global company holdings surpass that of any other United Statesbased corporation. They literally own the planet earth. But Alfred and Martha have a family secret, Miracle. To protect that secret, they have hired Robert Avalanche, the worlds best and leading security specialist.

Fresh off his prior assignment of the Ancient Dragon Clan Affair, Avalanche is thrust into a world that he has never encountered before. Danger and mayhem seems to follow her anywhere and everywhere she goes. The reason for that is someone wants her dead before she can inherit the family fortune and businesses.

Its a race against odds and time to keep Miracle alive and discover who it is that wants her dead and why. Travel the globe in this most unusual action-packed adventure of alternate-lifestyle cast of characters that will leave you turning the pages in anticipation and eagerly awaiting the sequels to find out just what happens next in the life of Miracle Glickstein and Robert Avalanche.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jun 30, 2015
• ISBN: 9781503580459

Benjamin Joseph Bramble

Benjamin Joseph Bramble is a truck driver for a US-based trucking company and lives in New York with Richard Harris, his best friend, along with Samantha, their cat.

Book preview

Copyright © 2015 by Benjamin Joseph Bramble.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

First Printing

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Rev. date: 06/24/2015

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Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

He watches. He has always been watching. That is what he is paid to do. As a rouge agent within an ultra secret United States Intelligence and Security Agency he has managed well.

For twenty years he has watched the family of Alfred and Martha Glickstein, the world’s first and currently singular trillionaires.

In particular, he has been assigned to watch the son. The only heir to the Glickstein dynasty. His employer deems this extremely necessary to properly monitor the future of the Glickstein conglomerates and subsidiaries. For the Glickstein corporate portfolio is vast.

Alfred Glickstein has brokered numerous acquisitions and mergers during his lifetime. Like the former Trump empire, Alfred had mastered the highly profitable market of buying and selling businesses and corporation. However, unlike other corporate giants he did not concentrate his holdings in one major parent company. The Glickstein investments are diverse. Instead of merely purchasing the materials, he acquired the mechanics to produce the materials, regulate the prices, and carefully consolidate huge profits. With his profits, he used them to acquire other businesses and corporations in need of monetary infusions.

The Glickstein holdings are most notable in upscale clothing manufacturing industries. Also, futuristic biochemistry and technology fields, communications and computer development, oil, both domestic and foreign. There are holdings in the global Steel Industry, as well as the risky business of new technologies in Underwater and Space explorations, including experimental researches.

The Glicksteins own slightly over three fourths of the planets businesses and industries. And, their network continues to grow.

America’s and other Western World Anti-Trust Laws are stretched far beyond their limits. For the Glicksteins have the very best and brightest highly paid and top-notched corporate and legal law firms in their employ. The laws are stretched, but never violated in this or any other country that bears the famous G Glickstein logo. Alfred is the master of his universe. He owns everything…and, nothing.

For the true ownership and power behind the Glickstein name belongs to his beautiful, charming, and highly socialite wife, Martha.

It is she that maneuvers the behind-the-scenes deals, and the clandestine boardroom meetings. She pacifies and persuades the corridors of power both abroad and in Washington, DC. She alone is the possessor of the keen manipulative mannerisms, mind, and sometimes sexual favors to advance the Glickstein fortune.

But, it is the son who will inherit everything. Born in the early 21st century, Michael Glickstein was bred and nurtured with a gold, not silver spoon.

From the moment of his birth, trust funds were immediately formulated for when he reached the ages of 18 and 21. Staggering amounts of various currencies were set aside for his extensive and expanding intellectual capacity. The most prestigious private schools and universities in the Americas and Europe were notified well in advance of his enrollment, even before he uttered his first words.

Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending upon one’s point of view, Martha would bear Alfred no further children. There would be no rivalry of siblings. At least, that is what Martha decreed. And, what she decrees is law in the Glickstein household.

Inwardly, and personally, Martha despises her husband. But, he is a necessary, if tolerated evil, if she is to build an empire over the one dominated by men.

After Michael’s birth, Alfred and Martha slept in separate bedrooms within their numerous estates and homes, usually on opposite sides of their residential locations. Alfred has strict orders from his wife to never cross her bedroom threshold without prior approval or notice for the purpose of sexual escapades. Vilified, Alfred ordered the same rules upon her as well. They have mutually consented to appropriate sexual gratifications from whomever they choose, as long as it is not in any of the same residences where they are dually inhabiting. And, that such unusual behavior does not compromise the integrity of their marriage publicly. The mirage of the consummate, successful American family with power and wealth must be rigidly maintained without blemish. Indiscretion by either party will automatically nullify the marriage. Neither wants to burden that responsibility.

Therefore, Alfred needs Martha, and vice-versa. But, having a son tipped the scale slightly in Alfred’s favor. Or so he thought.

Martha had wanted a daughter. And, what Martha wants…she gets. For she had uncovered an unusual and remarkable discovery of her son’s sexuality at the nubile age of 5. She dutifully seized the opportunity to change destiny, and openly spite her normally brilliant husband. With one masterstroke, she fulfilled her personal dreams and hopes.

All of this has been duly noted, recorded, and relayed to his employer over the years. Now, his task is to be elevated. His employer wants termination through accidental, appearances of the Glickstein heiress. Plainly stated, he is to kill Miracle Glickstein by assuming the charade of an ‘accident.’ This method would eliminate and deflect all and any recriminations and suspicions. And, no loose ends to be tied.

Wisely, being familiar with the assassination game, he fully understands that he would be considered a ‘loose end,’ thus bearing his own elimination. So, he must cautiously, meticulously, and successfully, if he is to survive and zest in the highly substantial sum of money that is to be paid to assassinate the one and only heiress to the Glickstein’s vastly financial global empire. As he has always watched, he now…waits.

CHAPTER ONE

Friday: 2015 hr (8:15pm)

It had been a grueling week of negotiations for the Acquisitions Department Team of Glickstein Mergers Division, The Computer Dynamics Corporation, Parsifal Pharmaceuticals, and Zanzibar Incorporated. Alfred was up to his old tricks, again.

These were companies dealing in the practical advancement of computer and pharmacology technology use in space. The rounds of talks with various corporate lawyers with their usual legal and technical jargon had left everyone with tremendous headaches and hunger. Everyone except Alfred Glickstein. His appetite was, as usual, insatiable. He savored the thrill as he luxurious, peaceful and posh ride of his customized, black, ‘G’ corporate logoed Lexus limousine as it cruised effortlessly Manhattan-bound on New York’s Long Island Expressway from East Hampton. Surprisingly, traffic was moderate for a weekend evening. Mostly because everyone was in the opposite direction towards their homes.

Alfred sat back and massaged his temples. Fortunately, he had the good sense to take medications prior to negotiations, thus avoiding a pounding headache like everyone else.

Savoring the softness of the plush leather interior, he contemplated on the success of his team’s endeavors during the past week. The acquisitions and mergers will net 650 billion dollars to the Glickstein coffers. Just another drop of coin in his, no…Martha’s piggybank, he correctly thought. For it was through her connections and uncanny surveillance of the New York Stock Exchange that made the deals possible.

Clever, clever, Martha, he mused. But, she’s not as clever as she thinks and she’ll never suspect that it will be he, that topples her little perfect world.

His vengeful revere was shattered by the sound of his personal cellular phone. He reached into his left, inside breast jacket pocket to extract the intrusive device.

Glickstein, he answered.

The Broker will act as Mediator to terminate the projected target. What is your word on this? inquired the voice on the other end.

Alfred allowed himself a fractional second of remorse as he understood the ramifications of the query. But, only fractional.

Engage, he responded, then rang off. There is no turning back, now. He will have it all…or nothing.

One of the many renowned Glickstein Residences is a 120 acre estate along the shores of South Hampton, New York. Complete with year-long staffing of home care personnel, armed security, electrified fencing with spaced infrared and motion detectors, it rivaled and surpassed the combinations of the White House and Camp David. Of course, being the most powerful and richest family on the planet, no expense is too great for their comfort and safety.

It is here that Martha can facilitate the world’s power elite to do her bidding. And, her bidding IS done. For the contributions and donations are stupendous. And, the honors and parties thrown are extravagant and legendary. They grace the favorable reviews of the tabloids worldwide. The charities are forever grateful, and the scholarships practically limitless

Martha was currently at home, and on the phone in her private study of the 52 room mansion, being philanthropically, as usual to another just and worthy cause, when a beep in the phone informed her of an in-coming call.

One moment, Eric, dear, I have an in-coming. Before Eric could even respond, Martha activated the change. Hello? she said.

Martha?

Alfred, darling! she squealed, hearing her husband’s voice. Whisper sweet everythings in my ear, she taunted, knowing what the composition of the call was going to be. Her network of informants and spies labored endlessly. Alfred knew this, but played along.

Success, My Love, he enthusiastically exclaimed. You now have more toys in your chest to play with.

That’s wonderful news, Freddie-boo! Saying his pet name on an open line irritated him beyond rational, she knew. But, not this time. We simply must celebrate!

Alfred groaned audibly. He knew what that meant.

Now, now, Alfred. Be pleasant. You know that we must appease. What better way than to throw a party!? Besides, our daughter will be home from Paris in the morning. What could be more timely?

‘Her death,’ Alfred thought. He always inwardly winced at the term ‘daughter.’ That abomination of a human being sickened him at sight. But, not for much longer. And, trust Martha to throw a party together in less than twenty-four hours. The amazing thing is that every single invitee would attend. No matter their prior engagements and/or where they were on the face of the earth. No one missed a Glickstein Affair. The only exceptions were death or national crisis of epic proportions. And, even then the offending parties would receive a severe reprimand for not being in attendance.

What time is our daughter’s flight? inquired Alfred. He simply refuses to acknowledge her name. I’ll have Max meet her at the airport.

That is perfectly gracious of you, Freddie. But arrangements have already been made. Martha was not always trustful of Alfred’s tenderness towards his daughter. What time will you be home, she inquired.

About an hour, Alfred replied. Traffic is light, and Max is doing a superb job of motoring into the city. I’ll helo from the office."

Good, I’ll see you then. Ciao! she said, then rang off.

Alfred sighed. He knew that calls were being made across the country, and indeed, around the world inviting the affluent, heads of state, and powerful elite to center upon the estate within the next twenty-four hours. He rubbed his temples. Now, he definitely had a headache.

Are you alright, Sir? asked Bill Talbot, his Chief of Security seated across from his long-time employer and friend. Talbot had been enticed and extracted from the upper ranks of the United States Secret Service several Presidents ago when he was offered a most generous and lucrative fee to head the Glickstein’s Intelligence and Security Branch.. Such was a necessity when the family approached ‘billionaire’ status in what seemed like eons ago.

I’m fine, Bill, answered Alfred. I made 650 billion dollars this week. Martha’s throwing a party, and my daughter is arriving in the morning. What could possibly be wrong?"

I see, said Talbot. Knowing the true cause of Alfred’s irritation. If I may be so bold, Sir. A bad flip of the coin that was."

In the dimly lit interior of the limousine, Alfred stared at his Chief of Security and searched for any trace of dark amusement of Talbot. But, Talbot’s eyes reflected nothing but sincerity.

Thank you, Bill. Alfred replied, finally. "That soothes my conscience.

Talbot had no idea as to the extent of his employer’s statement, but nods in agreement. He dismissed it entirely as fatigue.

**___**

Saturday: 1100 hrs (11:00am)

Madame, It’s so good to see you again. Welcome home! excited exclaimed Jennings, the Head Glickstein Household Manservant, while bowing slightly at the waist.

Thank you, Jennings. It is good to be home. But, what in heaven’s name is going on? Who are all these people? Where is Mommy and Daddy? inquired Miracle Glickstein, as she surrendered her bags to Jennings. There are trucks and vans all in the driveway, and all these people scurrying about? she described.

Your Mother is having a celebration in your honor, Madame. he explained. And, I might add, she reveled in a business venture during the week. Further cause for laudableness, I’m afraid. Further directing, he said, Your Mother is in the Great Kitchen overseeing preparation. And, your Father is secluded in his study, out of harm’s way, he mused. The Mrs. Has requested that I guide you directly to her upon your arrival, Madame. Your luggage will be attended to, he authorized, waving to the other servants in attendance. This way, please, Madame." he directed, and turned to lead the way to the Great Kitchen.

Leaving her bags to the servants, Miracle followed Jennings through the expansive house to the main kitchen area. The grace of her strides displayed a mastery of femininity with an air of petite bourgeoisie stemming from perfect etiquette tutoring and attending the most distinguished and finest schools in the Americas and Europe.