Treasure in the Caribbean

By Rhonda Nichols

A fairy tale wedding and luxury honeymoon turn into a nightmare for Abby and Jim when they stumble upon a cave full of weapons and ammunition destined for delivery to one of the most notorious criminal masterminds of all time. Running for their lives with no help in sight, they must rely on God to be their refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble. Psalm 46:1

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Apr 17, 2020
• ISBN: 9781532098246

Rhonda Nichols

Rhonda Nichols writes to inspire, instruct, and entertain women and men with stories of suspense and drama. Based on scripture and Christian principles, her books encourage both believers and non-believers to trust God for guidance and help in all circumstances. Treasure in the Caribbean, the sequel to Treasure in the North Tower, continues to challenge readers to remember that God is in control as “... a very present help in time of trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

Book preview

Chapter 1

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J udith’s already hurried pace down the hall quickened when she heard what sounded like someone ransacking the room next to hers. As she neared the door, she could hear her best friend yelling. Where are my shoes? I know I left them right here on this chair last night so I wouldn’t have to spend time looking for them this morning!

Abby turned from the chair to search elsewhere and, as she was known to do when frustrated, reached up with both hands to tug at the mass of auburn hair she had inherited from her Irish ancestors. Catching a glimpse of herself in the mirror, she stopped just in time to keep from destroying the hour of work her hairdresser had put in just this morning. Jerking her hands down and clenching her fists at her sides, she cried out Aggh! Even when I try to plan and get things ready ahead of time, something goes wrong!

Calm down, Abby, Judith admonished as she swept through the door, You wanted to sit on that chair last night and moved the shoes. They are right here. Judith reached under the foot of the bed and retrieved a shoe box containing the white, satin heels Abby was so frantic to find.

Abby grabbed the elusive shoe box and hugged it to her chest. Oh, I’m never going to be ready in time! she wailed and dropped down onto the, aforementioned, chair.

Yes, you will. It’s only ten o’clock. We don’t need to leave for the church for another hour or so. Your hair is done, your make-up is flawless, and, Judith motioned with her hand toward the suitcase lying open on the bed, you’re all packed. We only have to put everything in the car and go.

You’re right, Abby conceded, I’m just so nervous I can’t think. Oh Jude, she gushed as she launched off the chair and grabbed Judith by the hand, I’m getting married! Clutching the shoe box tightly to her chest, Abby released Judith’s hand and began twirling around the room in shear delight.

Judith stood laughing as she watched her best friend in all the world, dancing about.

What’s with all the noise in there? a voice called from the hall.

Abby froze mid-turn with eyes and mouth wide open. Just then a tall muscular man with red hair, much like Abby’s, stepped through the door.

You made it! Abby squealed. Casting aside the shoe box, she flung herself into the open arms of her older brother Tim.

Of course I made it. You didn’t think I would miss my baby sister’s wedding did you? he countered, picking her up and swinging her around in a circle.

Mom said she didn’t know if you could get off to come, Abby said breathlessly, as she struggled to regain her footing.

I just pulled a few strings. Well, actually, I pulled rank. Seeing as I have the most seniority of anyone on the oil rig, I can get away with it.

I’m so glad you did. Now everything is perfect, Abby gushed, then stooped down to retrieve the box of shoes she had abandoned to embrace her brother. Tossing them onto the bed, she returned to lamenting, Now if I can just get ready on time.

That man of yours is a fool if he’s not willing to wait on you, and he doesn’t deserve you either.

Aww, that’s the sweetest thing you’ve ever said to me.

Just don’t let it go to your head. Tim leaned over and kissed Abby’s cheek, being careful not to mess up her makeup. Now, let’s not keep him waiting too long and try his patience. You get your stuff together, Tim instructed as he tapped her nose with his forefinger, and I’ll go bring the car around front. He turned quickly and started out the door.

Tim, Abby called after him and waited until he had turned to again face her, thanks for …everything.

He noticed the tears that had gathered in her eyes and were threatening to spill over onto her cheeks. We’ll have none of that, he said, pointing to her eyes. You’ll mess up your make-up, and look like a raccoon. I don’t know anybody who wants to marry a raccoon - except maybe another raccoon. Tim winked and slipped out the door.

Abby giggled and sniffed as she watched him disappear through the doorway. Then, blinking back the tears, turned and began to put the last few articles in her suitcase. Once again perusing her packing list, she sighed and said, Well I think that’s everything. I guess if I forgot something I will just have to buy one when we get to – whoops! Abby’s hand flew up to cover her mouth and her eyes danced with amusement, I was about to tell.

Do you think it’s such a good idea to go off somewhere without telling anyone where you’re going? Judith inquired as she sank down onto the bed and began smoothing out an imaginary wrinkle in the bed spread.

It will be okay, Miss Worry-wart, Abby consoled, "After all, I am taking my own personal FBI agent with me."

"I guess you’re right. It’s just that you never know what’s going to happen. Remember I had you and an FBI agent with me when I was kidnapped five years ago."

Abby moved over to stand in front of Judith. Yeah, I remember. How could I ever forget that day? she admitted as she placed a hand on Judith’s shoulder. But, we don’t have anybody looking for treasure hidden away in the north tower now. Squatting down, she cocked her head to the side and looked up into Judith’s worry filled face, imploring her to understand, nor do we have any other mystery in progress for that matter. Every thing will be fine, you’ll see.

I hope so, but I can’t help worrying, Judith insisted, raising her eyes to meet Abby’s.

Abby smiled and shook her head, The last part of Hebrews 13:5 gives us the promise that God will never leave us nor forsake us. He’s going with me on my honeymoon. You know nothing can happen except what God allows, Jude. Just as He took care of you when you were kidnapped, He will take care of me while I’m away.

You’re right, Judith conceded with a sigh. Then standing, she reached out and took hold of Abby’s upper arms giving her a little shake. But call me the minute you get there, and check in every day.

"Alright, I will call you when we get there, but I won’t check in with you every day, she added as she stood, pulling away from Judith and heading for the closet. Maybe every other day or so, she said over her shoulder, but not every day. I will be on my honeymoon you know, and she smiled a mischievous smile, I plan on being preoccupied most of the time. I don’t even plan on having my cell phone turned on. If you need to get a message to me just send me a text and I will call you when I check my phone."

Abby reached into the closet and pulled out her wedding gown just as Tim rapped on the door-facing and stepped through the open door. Wow! That dress is bigger than you are, Sis! he exclaimed. Here, let me help you with that, he offered as he crossed the room.

Abby turned and smiled, then handed him the dress. Gladly. It’s also very heavy, at least when I have to hold it up so high as to keep it from dragging the floor.

Judith hurried around them and reached into the closet. Here, take this too. She handed Tim a garment bag containing the matching veil. Lay them in the back seat of the car so they won’t get wrinkled.

Yes Ma’am. Tim gave a salute, revealing his military experience by it’s expert execution. Taking the offered garment bag, he turned on his heel and retreated back through the door.

Both girls watched in amusement as Tim marched from the room with the garment bags held high above his head. Then looking at each other, erupted into fits of laughter.

Come on, Judith encouraged, when she had regained enough control to speak. Bring those shoes and let’s go to a wedding.

Alright, I think I will, Abby responded and picked up the pair of white satin heels that would ensure that her white satin, lace covered wedding gown would only barely brush the ground as she walked.

Judith grabbed the suitcases, and together, they sashayed out the door.

Chapter 2

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D id they light the candles yet? Are my mother and grandmother seated? Abby bombarded Judith with a proliferation of questions when she stepped through the door. Does Allissa have the rose petals in her basket? I left them in the refrigerator so they wouldn’t wilt. Where’s Chris? Does he have the rings? We did get them tied on the pillow didn’t we? Abby swung around surveying the room for the basket of flowers and the ring bearer’s pillow. They’re not here! Where are they? It’s time to start and they have to have them!

Abby. Take a breath. They have them, Judith admonished. Everyone is in place and it’s time to start - unless you have a stroke or a heart attack. Taking both of Abby’s hands in hers, Judith gave them a little squeeze. Abby, it’s your wedding day.

I know…, Abby was cut off in mid-sentence as Judith waved her hand and continued her admonition.

Relax and enjoy every minute of it. We, your friends and family, and the wedding planner that you are paying big bucks, will take care of all the details. You just go out there and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Oh, Jude, you’re right as usual. Abby gave Judith an air kiss on each cheek. Thanks. You are the most wonderful friend a girl could ever have.

Remember that the next time you disagree with me. Judith withdrew her hands from Abby’s and reached up to adjust the lace veil that graced Abby’s head, pulling it over her face.

You have something old: this veil we found in one of the trunks Mr. Chatham sent over from my Uncle Chamberlain’s estate in England, something new: this beautiful gown we had so much fun shopping for, Judith straightened the long train of the elegant gown, something borrowed: your mothers string of pearls, she checked to make sure the clasp was in the center at the back of Abby’s neck, and something blue: the lace garter hidden beneath your skirt. Giving Abby a sly grin and a wink, she concluded, I’d say you are ready. Both Abby and Judith’s heads snapped around and their eyes locked onto the closed door as the wedding music they had so laboriously chosen began to play.

Show time, Judith chirped and started for the door. She paused with her hand on the doorknob and turned her gaze back to Abby, You look absolutely radiant. She blew Abby a kiss before disappeared through the doorway.

Taking a deep, calming breath, Abby bowed her head, "Thank you Lord for bringing me to this day. I am so blessed. Help me through today and keep me from embarrassing myself and everyone else at the wedding. Please!"

A gentle knock at the door drew her attention and she looked up as her Dad opened the door. Ready Punkin? he asked.

As ready as I will ever be. She picked up her Bible with the wedding bouquet attached and, shifting it into her left hand, took her father’s offered elbow with her right.

Leaning over until their heads nearly touched Abby’s Dad quietly said, You look beautiful.

Cocking her head sideways, Abby looked up into her Dad’s eyes and at seeing the tears there, blinked rapidly to dispel her own.

Tess, the wedding planner, stepped around the corner just then and motioned for them to come along. The flower girl is nearly half way down the aisle, she informed them. You’re up next.

Picking up the pace, they moved quickly to stand in front of the, now closed, sanctuary doors and stood listening for the wedding march to begin. Shortly they heard the organist bear down on the introduction and the doors swung open to reveal a church full of friends and family rising from their seats in honor of the bride.

Abby’s sparkling green eyes scanned the room, barely registering the many smiling faces of her friends and family, as she searched for the face of the man that had stolen her heart and promised her a lifetime of love and happiness. Stepping into the room she was able to see past the well-wishers and find the one she was looking for.

The black tux he wore fit as if it had been made on him and intimated the strength of the muscular body beneath. Abby sucked in a breath and her eyes widened as she was struck by the image of him standing there waiting for her. The light blue cummerbund so nearly matched the color of his eyes, that they both appeared to emanate from the same tranquil pool ensconced deep within.

When their eyes met, she nearly drowned in the wave of emotion shining from those crystal blue orbs. The connection was so strong it blocked out all other awareness, making her feel as if they were the only two people in the room as she glided along up the isle to stand by the side of the man she so loved.

From there on, everything was a blur. She vaguely remembered repeating her vows, hardly heard the minister as he pronounced them man and wife, and the kiss… the kiss didn’t last nearly long enough. They cut the cake, and she danced with her newly acquired husband as well as what seemed like every other man and boy in attendance. Posing for pictures and the endless toasting at dinner, made it seem as if the day would never end. It was nearly sundown when Abby was finally able to slip away with Judith to go change out of her wedding gown and into travel clothes.

Whew, what a day. I’m exhausted, exhilarated, and … and married! Abby exclaimed as she stepped out of the elegant dress and went dancing across the room.

Judith bent down and picked up the crumpled gown from off the floor, smoothed out the wrinkles and began placing it on a hanger. She watched as her best friend and old college room mate twirled around the room and then laughed out loud when she bumped into a chair and fell, arms flailing, into it. Careful or you will spend the first night of your honeymoon in the emergency room.

Giggling, she looked up at Judith and said, Now that just won’t do will it.

No, I imagine you would have one disappointed groom.

And bride, Abby quickly added, then blushed deeply. Turning her head, she glanced at the clock, I better get dressed, she said as she launched out of the chair.

Soon she was dressed and ready to go. With purse in hand, she stepped in front of the full length mirror for one last appraisal.

"Don’t forget to call me when you get