Trial and Error

By S. E. Evans

S. E. Evans a college student studying liberal arts with a high concentration in English. This is the first of several in the series following the Tempa twins. She started out reading everything she could find and has been writing for fourteen years, starting with poetry and progressing into novels. S. E. Evans likes to look at the different situations people face in every day life and expand on all sides. Throw in a little mystery with government agents and plots to take over the world and that is what inspires her work. S. E. Evans is working full time while finishing her degree

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Feb 13, 2014
• ISBN: 9781493170913

Book preview

CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER ONE

March 1985

Julia glanced at her reflection in the mirror, smiling secretly to herself. She could not be happier than she was right now unless her parents could have actually been present on her big day. She could not believe in a few hours she was going to become Mrs. Allen Tempa. Sighing heavily, she adjusted her veil over top of her head. It looked beautiful set up against her half up, half down chestnut brown hair that fell in curls around her shoulders. A few white flowers accented her hair and went around the veil as a sort of crown. She glanced to the side and saw the dress her mom had worn on her own wedding day. Now its my turn. I just wish Jason was here to walk me down the aisle. He’s so stubborn!

When she had become a complete agent, they had had one last fight, ending with Jason swearing to never talk to her again until she stopped being an agent. Well, his loss. If he wants to be a baby, that’s his fault. Today is my day and I’m going to have the happiest day ever!

She glanced at her reflection once more before removing the veil and standing in a silk slip, unsure of what to do. Her bridal party was still working on their own hair and makeup and she had no idea what to do next. Hearing the door open, she jumped but smiled as she saw Allen. Hey, what are you doing in here? she asked keeping her distance. She knew if she let him get close, they might not ever make it down the aisle in time. You know its bad luck to see the bride before the wedding.

He grinned. Babe, I don’t believe in bad luck. And even if I did, a love like ours couldn’t be broken by anything. Nothin’, he said backing her into the wall and holding onto her shoulders firm, but lovingly, short of God Himself could break us apart.

He kissed her heatedly and she melted right into him, just as she always did. Every time he came near her, she became weak in the knees. After James had stepped back, Julia had tried to talk him into taking her back, but he had made it nearly impossible for her to find him. Meanwhile, Allen had been pursuing her even harder, never giving up. It took him two months to get her to finally talk to him and from then on they had been nearly inseparable. After a week of dating, he had proposed, but she turned him down, telling him to slow down. It took him eight months before she finally said yes, and even then it had taken some convincing.

But even then, it had not all been roses. Allen was quick tempered and very stubborn. Not to mention extremely jealous. She once had to pull him out of a fight, and that was only after Allen had already broken the other guy’s left arm. And all that just because the guy had started to hit on her at the gym.

But through all his faults, she had a few of her own. She was just as stubborn and sometimes she was a little quick to judge. Even with all of this, they still stayed together. There was just too much passion between them to keep them apart. Anyone who had ever seen them together could see it. It was impossible not to.

Allen looked down at her, grinning. I had to come tell you I love you.

She cracked a smile, breathing in his enticing scent. Yes, I know. You called me this morning and told me that. And then again while I was getting my hair done, then afterwards. And oh yeah, five minutes ago.

Just gotta make sure you know it, he said wrapping his arms around her waist. He kissed her again, picking her up as he did and holding her against the wall securely. What about me?

What about you? she asked grinning and holding on with her arms around his neck.

Do you love me or not, woman? he asked suddenly turning very seriously.

Woman? she laughed.

Yeah, my woman, he said walking her over to the couch and sitting her down before trapping her underneath his own body. Now tell me, do you love me or not?

I wouldn’t be marrying you if I didn’t.

What kind of answer is that?

She licked her smiling lips. The kinda answer you would give.

I would not.

You so would, she laughed. ‘Now come on, we’ve both got things to do. We are getting married in just a few hours."

Are we? I still don’t know if you love me or not, he said showing his stubborn side quickly. Now what’s your answer?

You know I do. Now go on, I need to do some things.

No, he said staying over top of her and kissing her again, moving down to her neck and then her shoulder. Things can wait. This is our wedding,. Nothing has to happen until we say so.

He went back to her neck, but she pushed him away. Allen, not now.

Aw, come on, he said looking at every beautiful feature on her face. Come on, we got a few hours.

She laughed, pushing him back, determined to make him wait a little longer. Allen, no. Not now.

Why not? he grinned, keeping his hold on her and falling back, pulling her on top. We’ve got the time and you know you want to.

She laughed and pushed him onto the floor. No. If you mess up m hair, Harriet will kill you. She leaned over, resting her chin in her hands. Speaking of which, when are you going to introduce her and Will? You know, I think—

Yeah, I know what you think, he cut her of, standing up and walking over to the window. Look, Will’s got a girl. He’s even thinkin’ about proposing to her.

I know. But Allen, he’s not going to be happy with her. He’s not happy with her now.

Yes he is. He’s just fine. Leave him alone.

Allen—

No, just drop it. Just leave him to do as he wants. No interfering. He walked back over and wrapped his arms around her. Now, let’s not talk about him. Let’s talk about me and you. Pulling her close, he made her melt right into him with one kiss. Come on, let’s just—

Allen! she laughed pushing him back. I told you, not now.

Why not? he grinned. Not like we haven’t done it before. Over and over, half a dozen times a day.

She smiled. Yeah, but I think now you need to wait.

How long? How long you gonna keep me waiting? Cause you know I’d wait for you. You are worth the wait.

She started to blush. After its all done and over with.

Right after the wedding then, he said firmly.

She nodded. Okay, right after the reception and everyone leaves.

No, before then. On the way there.

She laughed, Allen—

Promise me, he grinned kissing her heatedly.

Okay.

Good. After the ceremony in the back of the limo.

Okay, she laughed looking up at him lovingly.

Okay. He picked her up, swinging her around. Then we can start to work on that baby. Julia’s smile faded and he sat her down, noticing it right away. What? We’ll start our family right off.

Family?

Yeah, you know, me, you, and the baby. We’ll have a son, you know, someone to carry on the Tempa name. And maybe a little girl too.

Baby? Now you’re talking two? I’m not having a baby.

Well, no, not yet, he grinned deviously, that’s what we’ve got to work on.

She pushed him back as he tried to wrap his arms around her. No. I told you, I’m not having a baby.

What do you mean you’re not going to have a baby?

Just what I said. I’m sorry you assumed I wanted to have a baby, but I don’t. I’m an agent and I’d like to keep it that way.

What do you mean? I’m not asking you to give up being an agent.

Yes you are. I’d have to take off to have the baby and then what?

You could come back when you were ready.

And what do we do with the baby? Just cart it off onto someone else?

Only when we go on missions. It wouldn’t be that bad.

Not that bad? Never being around for anything important. It’s first steps, words, or any of it. It’ll grow up knowing his babysitter more than us, his parents. What kind of life is that? Is that what you want?

It doesn’t have to be that way.

"No. I’m not going to let it. I’m not having a baby."

We just need—

What? Talk? No, I’m done talking about this and I’ve already made up my mind. I’m not going to have a baby.

Julia—

No. Not happening. If that’s all you want from me, then forget it. I’m not going to be just the mother of your children while you go off saving the world.

Baby—

No, forget it. It’s not happening. And if that’s all you want me for, then it’s over. The wedding is off.

If that’s what you want, fine! he snapped storming over to the door. You don’t want to get married, fine, we won’t. It’s called off. Just go home and have fun fighting with your brother.

Shut up!

Yeah, I’ll do that. And don’t come crawling back when you find you can’t stand bein’ without me.

I won’t! She watched him run out and slam the door behind himself. Falling down on the couch, she started to cry. You’ll have to come for me, because I don’t need you. Allen, I don’t need you!

ξ     ξ     ξ

Shane looked over the security reports intently. His plans were all going as well as he had thought them out. No one would see it coming. No one.

All through China he was known. There was not a person that could not identify him, but if he did not want to be seen, he could disappear altogether, leaving no trace whatsoever. He was known mostly as heartless killer. He could kill a whole family before breakfast and think nothing of it. He never cared to remember the countless number of people he had slaughtered over the past twenty years, their names were meaningless. What did matter was the cause in which they needed to be murdered. He did not kill for pleasure, but merely for a greater cause: Cleansing the Government. Soon everyone would see it his way, very soon.

The police tried to capture him, but even if they did, they could never keep him there. They may have known it was him, but there was never any solid evidence to connect him to any of it. There were never any witnesses, none that they could find. Everyone seemed to suddenly go blind for a moment if there was a murder in a crowded street at the busiest part of the day. No one could figure it out. No one.

It took a lot to get that kind of power. He had worked hard and people feared and respected him. Not many could actually get both, but somehow, people just could not help but to respect a man working so hard to bring a government to its feet like he was working on. They understood the cause, but most were too afraid to do anything to fight against it. That suited Shane fine, because soon enough, everyone would be on his side, or be dead. He would make sure of it himself. Soon it would all be over with. And only he knew how it was going to end.

ξ     ξ     ξ

Will admired his reflection, his new hair cut and his white silk shirt and light blue tie, which looked good on him. He had some time before the wedding, but he wanted to make sure he was ready when the time came. No sense in having to run around in haste, that was his motto. Checking one last time, he checked his watch. Jamie, his girlfriend and high school sweetheart was on her way over to help set up for the reception and then run him over to the church in time for the wedding. And maybe, he felt inside his pants pocket, just maybe, I’ll surprise her. He glanced at his watch again, surprised to see she was fifteen minutes late. Jamie was never late, she hated to be late for anything. She’ll have a good reason, he reassured himself. He started to walk into the next room, but stopped as he heard the phone ring. Hello?

Will, Jamie answered. Um, Will—

Hey sweetie, he said smiling instantly. I was just wandering about you. Are—

I can’t do this.

Oh, he said sucking in air to calm his nerves. That’s okay, sweetie. I told you, if you didn’t want to come then—

No. Will, I can’t see you anymore.

He stood, unaware what to do or say. Why? was all he could finally say after being silent for a minute.

Will, I care about you very much, but I don’t love you, and you don’t love me.

Yes I do.

No you don’t. Trust me, you don’t.

Who are you to tell me who I love? I know I love you, Jamie. More than anything in this world, I love you.

No, you don’t. She sighed heavily. You only feel you should love me. We’ve been together so long, neither one of us could explain why we’re still together.

Well I thought it was because we loved each other.

Maybe for a period of time we did. But I’m not even sure about that.

Where did all of this come from, he asked enraged. And what do you mean you’re not sure about us ever loving each other?

Will, please, don’t get upset.

I’m past upset, he fumed. What happened? The last time I checked we were happy. What suddenly changed?

Gary Bishop asked me to marry him.

What?

Gary, from work, asked me to marry him and I accepted. I’ve been seeing him for a little over a year. At first it was suppose to be just for fun. Meaning nothing, but I guess I fell in love. I’m so sorry.

Why didn’t you tell me? Why did you keep seeing me if you were so in love with him?

I don’t know. Will, I didn’t want to hurt you, please believe me when I say that.

Well I guess you didn’t do a very good job of it, did you?

Will—

Good-bye. He hung up and stared at the phone before picking it up and throwing it against the wall, breaking it into pieces. Damn it, he yelled, unsure of what to think or do. His emotions were everywhere. He picked up the lamp to throw, but before he could, the door swung open, stopping him. He looked to see Allen. It was almost like looking in the mirror. Their faces seemed to hold the same hurt, angry face.

What happened? they echoed each other.

Allen shook his head. Take off the shirt. The wedding’s off.

What? he said, forgetting about his own problems for the moment and focusing on his brother. Why is the wedding off?

Because, we both agreed it would be a mistake if we did, he replied walking over to the refrigerator and taking out a large bottle of whiskey, taking a large swig of it quickly.

Will took the bottle away from him and dumped it into the sink. Allen, stay away from that. Now get your jacket on, we’re going to go straighten all of this out.

No. If she wants to be a bi—

Allen, shut up. Quit being so stubborn and follow me.

Allen watched him, unsure of what to say. Where are we going?

To get this wedding back on. Now let’s go!

ξ     ξ     ξ

Will glared at Allen. Quit being so stubborn. Both of you, he added turning to Julia. Why are you two worrying so much about kids? Allen, you can barely take care of yourself, let alone a kid. And you know, Julia, you may not want a baby right now, but that is likely to change. So why worry about it all now?

Because he’s being a jerk. He keeps pushing that idea on me and I know for a fact that I will never want children. I know what its like to be a child of an agent and so do you two. I don’t want to leave a kid the way my parents did and you both know it could happen.

But I’m sayin’, why worry about it now? You’ve got plenty of time to think about it. Kids are not a big priority right now.

Well why should we wait? Allen snapped.

And why now? she snapped back.

Why wait?

You’re such a s-

Hey! Will yelled, getting in between both of them before they could really start getting into it. Why decide now? I’m telling you, right now, you two just need to think about just that, you two. Nothing else, and nothing less. After the wedding, you two are going to be in such a blur of events, you’re not even going to remember this day very much. Just this stupid fight. Now get over it and kiss and make up already!

I’m never kissing him again. He’s so stubborn!

Oh, like you’re not?

No!

Allen, Julia, shut—

Stay out of it! both of them yelled glaring at him.

Allen pushed him out of the way and stared right down at Julia. I’m stubborn?

Yes you are, she said walking up so she met up with him nearly face to face. You’re so stubborn and you don’t know how—

He pressed his lips against hers, not being able to take being away from them any longer. She melted right into him and wrapped her arms around his neck. She pushed him back suddenly regaining herself but before she could argue more, he pulled her back in, kissing her again. Now get on that dress and meet me at the end of the aisle in ten minutes.

She smiled, licking her lips. She just could not resist him, no matter how much she tried, she could not resist him. Will, tell the guest, it’s going to be delayed half an hour, would you?

But— he stammered, trying to argue, but seeing the look on their faces, he knew there was nothing he could do about it. At least they were back together.

ξ     ξ     ξ

Allen had one arm around Julia’s small waist and with his other, he held his glass up, as his best man, Will, made a toast.

Allen, Julia, I’ve been the luckiest guy in the world. I’ve had the privilege of knowing both of you and I think that anyone who knows you two would agree, knowing you two, there is never a dull moment, especially when you two are put together. Never know what the mood is going to be like, all anyone knows is there’s a lot of passion involved any mood it may be. He paused and the crowd laughed slightly. No matter what he has said, or done, you still keep him around. What are you thinking? He watched her smile as she leaned her head against his shoulder and the rest of the room chuckled. But seriously, you two have a love unlike anyone else ever has, or ever will. I will tell everyone one thing. The moment Allen saw Julia, he told me he had to meet her, because he was going to marry her. And now look where we are! But then again, that’s my stubborn, one track minded, fearless, brainless brother. And I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t have him any other way, I know Julia wouldn’t. He raised his glass. But through all of his faults, you two are something rare altogether. You two love each other more than I believe any two people can. Live your lives for each other and no one else and never, you listening Allen, he said making sure he had his full attention, because he seemed to be watching Julia, never take each other for granted. And always talk out your problems. You do that and you two will be unstoppable. I love you both and wish you a lifetime of happiness. To Allen and Julia.

Everyone raised their glasses and toasted the new groom and bride. The band started to play a slow song and soon everyone was on the dance floor with their significant other, dancing to the sounds of, REO Speedwagon’s Can’t Fight This Feeling Anymore. Allen led Julia out on the dance floor and they soon became the center of attention, but neither one of them noticed or cared, they were too lost in each other’s eyes. The song ended and they came back to reality, and as Harriet started to make her way to the stage to give her own speech as maid of honor, someone threw her out of the way and took the microphone away from the band.

He stumbled around and everyone stared at him. Hi, everyone, he slurred, hiccupping. I’m gonna make a speech. He looked around, trying to keep his glass steady. For you people I don’t know, I’m James Foris. He started to chuckle to himself and pushed anyone away as they tried to coax him off the stage. I’m just gonna give a toast. He raised his glass. To Julia, oh, my beautiful, sweet Julia. I love you, you know that? He raised his glass. That new bride ladies and gentlemen, that was my fiancée, you know that? Yep, she was, when those two met. And now look! Here she is, a beautiful bride, and me, well, I’m just some drunk at her party. He looked Allen in the eyes. And that, he stopped to burp, I’m going to kill you. He threw the microphone down and started towards Allen, dropping his glass as he did. Before Allen could defend himself, his groom’s men took control of the situation and grabbed hold of him, carrying him towards the door. Always hiding, ain’t ya? Never big enough to fight your own fights! he yelled before they could get him out the door.

Allen started to follow, but Julia pulled his arm back. No, not now. Not on our day, please?

He looked into her pleading eyes and stepped back. How could he refuse her? Nodding, he led her back to their table. The waiters started to pass out the main course and Julia smiled as Allen whispered ‘I love you’ in her ear.

She kissed him softly and watched the happy crowd of people. Most of everyone they had invited had shown up. It almost seemed too perfect. At least the agents and the rest of their friends were getting along. At least that was one thing she never had to worry about. She could live both lives without any trouble.

Come on, I want to dance, Allen said reaching for her hand. She accepted it and followed him out. Out there, it was almost like they were alone. No one else existed. The band started up as they saw them, playing Time After Time by Cyndi Lauper. Julia closed her eyes and leaned her head against his strong shoulder, enjoying the moment. I’m sorry, he whispered in her ear.

She held onto him tightly. Not now. I don’t want to think about anything like that now. I love you, Allen.

And I love you. He pulled back and kissed her forehead and then noticed someone was standing next to them. It was an old friend of Julia’s, Seth Blaine, and a fellow agent.

He nodded and apologized for interrupting. I need to speak to you two alone.

Allen nodded and grabbed Julia’s attention, leading her over to an outer room where no one could hear them. What’s going on?

I just got a hit on something big going on in China. I know this is your wedding day, but Chief Johnson said he wanted you two to leave a.s.a.p. He apologizes for interrupting, but—

No, that’s fine, Allen said looking around. Do you have all the info on it?

Yes. I was able to print it all off. I’ll have it all ready for you momentarily. Are you two sure you want to go? I hear the guy behind all of this is one crazy mother fucker.

Yes, we’re going, Julia said before peeking her head back in the room and grabbing Harriet and then Will’s attention. We’ve worked too long on this project to hand it over to someone else.

Are you sure, babe? Allen said already taking off his jacket. What about the reception?

Will and Harriet can take care of it all, she replied as they came out, looking at all three of them.

What’s going on? Will said looking back into the room before shutting the door. Everyone’s starting to get done with the food. It’s about time for cake.

Tell everyone we’re sorry. Julia’s sick or something, whatever you think they’ll buy. We need to leave now, Allen said trying to think of what they could get out of there in. The limo guy was gone until later that night. Will, give me the keys to your car.

My car? How will I get home?

You two can have the limo, Julia said quickly. You two, just kill off the party, or let it keep going. We just really need to go. Looks like we have a lead on our guy in China.

Alright. We’ll take care of it, Harriet assured her. Just go.

Ok, thanks you two. Love you. She hugged Harriet and then went to Will, giving him a kiss on the cheek as she hugged him. And I’m sorry I didn’t introduce you two earlier. Will, this is Harriet Carter, Harriet, William Tempa. She winked at Will and turned to Allen. Thanks so much you two. We’ll be back!"

Be careful! both Will and Harriet hollered as they ran off down the hallway, Julia’s heel’s echoing behind them. Will turned to look at Harriet and faltered for a moment, finally catching a good look at her. She was beautiful. Too bad the pain from his latest break up was too much for him to notice it as much as he should have. Well, I guess we have a reception to cool off.

She smiled, biting the bottom of her lip slightly. Yeah, she agreed, glad to finally being able to talk to him. She had wondered about him since the first time she had seen him at rehearsals the night before. He had been all over some other girl, but that had not stopped her from wanting to get to know him at least. There was something about him, and she was going to give it her best shot to get him to notice her. Well, I guess we better go before they get too high strung.

ξ     ξ     ξ

Julia glanced from her watch to Allen. What is taking them so long?

Shaking his head, he was starting to get as uneasy as she was. It seemed to be taking a long time to just get a room key. Come on, he said quietly. Grabbing their main bags, he lead her out towards the back of the hotel. Something was not right. Do you think—

He knows? she finished for him, nodding. Oh yeah. Glancing back at her watch she shook her head. "This isn’t right. I think we need to get moving, now."

Allen nodded. Yeah, let’s get out of here. He grabbed her hand and dragged her down the alley, but he stopped suddenly, they weren’t alone. Watch—

Yeah, she said feeling the same thing. They took in their surroundings, Julia estimated there was only about a dozen or so, hidden all around the alley way. A dozen?

Two, he said seeing even more hiding even higher above them.

Allen, just don’t ru—

Before she could finish her sentence, he was already dropping the bags and jumping forward, causing all of the hidden and even some that neither one of them had seen out of hiding, and surrounding them quickly. So, looks like the welcome wagon came to make sure we made it.

Just give in. Lord Shane would like to talk to you.

Lord? Allen scoffed. Lord of what?

It’d be easier if you just came with us. You don’t want to anger him. The man that seemed to be the leader of the group watched both of them carefully. Now throw down any weapons you may have and we will—

How about not? Allen challenged. How about you and all your little friends here just leave. And when you get back, tell your Lord, we’ll come see him on our own terms. And if he tries to come after us, he can count on losing his man power.

You don’t seem to understand. You’re coming with us now.

No, you don’t understand, Allen said watching him carefully, but not taking his attention away from everyone else as well. You just lost your chance of ever seeing your Lord again. Before Julia could stop him, he went right at the leading man, instantly trading punches. It seemed as if they mirrored each other, but it was not long before others joined in, trying to over take him. Julia jumped in, taking as many as she could on at once, knocking many out, but still struggling to keep up. It seemed like for every one she knocked out, three more appeared.

Allen kept his eyes on the men that came after him, but he could not help but keep looking over to see how Julia was keeping up. If anything happened—He trailed off, feeling the first punch from the fight catch him right in the jaw. Putting his full attention back into the fight, he took as many as he could on, but soon started to feel even more punches coming through. It seemed as if the two dozen had grown into even more. Julia— He staggered as he felt a kick to the stomach. He doubled over, and caught one in the chin.

Julia turned to see him, but was taken by surprised as she was taken down. Four men took a hold of her, as four others finally grabbed Allen, making him take a look at Julia. The leader walked over to her, holding a knife against her exposed neck. You ready to see it our way?

Let her go! he snapped struggling, but their grips only got tighter. Get off of me! He over threw two and three more stepped in, taking him to the ground. Allen looked up to see the man get the blade closer to her neck.

Allen grew even angrier and the leader chuckled. Americans. This is America’s finest agents? He laughed harder. I don’t think I would have been bragging about you two. He kicked Julia down, so her face was in the dirt road. I guess we’ll see how tough you are when you meet Lord Shane yourself.

Allen looked up from Julia and glared at him. Don’t worry, you won’t see it.

He laughed again. No, you won’t see anything. He went at Allen, but a blow came from behind him, knocking Allen out cold. Julia started to struggle, but she was knocked out as well. The last thing she heard was a couple of the men saying something in their native tongue, War has begun.

ξ     ξ     ξ

Julia awoke, trying to remember what had happened. She looked around to see a dark, red brick room with only a single window up high on the wall and not much of anything else, besides a small blanket and pillow she was lying on. What happened? She looked around and felt the back of her head throbbing. Ow she whispered remembering exactly what happened. Where is Allen?

Good morning Princess, a voice called out from the corner of the room. A door opened and a figure stayed back in the shadows, watching her intensely. She could feel his gaze go right through her. "Sorry our rooms are not as accommodating as you