Twin Fix: Obscure Reflexions

By Dy Noel

The adventures of Diana continue as her trouble magnet gets her in over her head and definitely out of her comfort zone in England. Little does Diana know, the family member she is trying to help is in her own conundrum. It will take all the skills of Ben and Scott, plus a few more, to get these ladies out of trouble.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: May 15, 2019
• ISBN: 9781644925782

Book preview

Chapter 1

In New York, Friday afternoon

The JFK Airport was overflowing with travelers, mostly students off for the week and heading to warmer more exotic places for spring break. Scott was making a mad dash between planes. He flew in on the TWA from Des Moines heading to New York. Now he had to switch over to a Delta heading for England. He then was going to take a bus over to Gretna. It wasn’t a vacation that he was traveling for. He was called back to Scotland by his grandfather.

Scott, a hard-bodied, six-foot-two forty-seven -year-old Special Ops veteran with dark-auburn hair and vibrant green eyes, worked for the Department of Homeland Security in Des Moines, Iowa. Though he lives in Iowa now, he was raised in Georgia. His rearing gave him a Southern drawl and is where he learned to use his charm to get what he needed, usually to make the females bend to his requests. He would take them on dates, get a little sugar from them, but that was all. He was a confirmed bachelor. There was only one female that he came across that he couldn’t charm into submission. He has been working as a team with her and his best friend for the past year. He realized that though he cared greatly for her, she was much too complicated for him. However, she had become family…his sister—ever since the trip to Syria and back.

Scott, with his gray dress slacks and black shirt, along with his silver vest and flat black leather driving cap, was waiting in line at the security check to board his plane. He looked around at the people near him while he was waiting for his turn. There was a brunette sitting in the chairs on the right, smiling and flirting with him. Scott gave her a wink and smiled back. He heard some giggling to his left, so he glanced over that way to see what was going on. A group of sorority girls, which had been shopping in the souvenir shop, were standing by the store door and eyeing him. He tipped his hat to them, which resulted in an outburst of giggling and blushes. Scott relished in the attention he got from the females, something his best friend never did appreciate. After twenty minutes of standing in line, he finally made it up to the security check. He was moved on through and started heading up the loading ramp. As he was on his way up, out of the corner of his eye, he thought he saw a familiar face. No way, she was home, he thought. He glanced back over to where he thought he saw her, but there was no one there. You’re losing it, Scott McCleary…why would she be here? He shook his head and went to find his seat.

The plane left from JFK at one that afternoon. That would put him into London Heathrow around nine that night. It would be too late to take a bus to Gretna, so he would stay in London for the night then head up there in the morning. He figured he would find a pretty thing to join him for dinner and a movie. As he contemplated his plans for the night, he noticed that there was a lot of turbulence. No surprise, it’s spring, and the flight was over an ocean—a good mix for storms. Even still, the plane bounced around a lot more than normal. Scott put his earbuds in and closed his eyes to try to sleep through it. He was just about asleep, when all of a sudden, he heard a yelp and felt someone falling on him. His eyes flew open, and he grabbed onto the lady’s arms to stop her from falling all the way to the floor. Whoops, I’m so sorry, sir, please forgive me, she said.

Scott had to look twice. Diana? What in the world are you doing here? he scolded.

I’m sorry…I think you have me confused with someone else, the lady stated as she struggled to get her feet under herself. As soon as she was stable again, she looked at her rescuer.

Scott stood looking into the face of Diana’s twin. She was remarkable in her similitude. Her eyes were the key to the difference between them. Diana has large almond-shaped hazel eyes; this lady has round aqua-green eyes. I’m sorry, ma’am…you look like a very good friend of mine. Are you okay? Scott inquired.

Yes, thank you for catching me and saving a little of my pride. She smiled.

Nawt at awl ma’am, glad to be of help. Scott grinned. She smiled, gave him a nod, then worked her way back to her seat. He watched her stagger back to her seat a few rows in front of him. The Spirit tapped his mind, She will need your help. Be ready. Diana was the one that helped him understand walking with the Lord and following His spirit. He found it an indispensable resource for his life now. Guide me in the way You want me to go Lord, Scott acknowledged.

Margarita finally made it back to her seat. She readjusted her light-blue pencil skirt and brushed down her white cotton blouse. She rebuttoned the small pearlized button on the cuff of her sleeve. She was grateful to the handsome man who kept her from falling all the way to the floor. There was something familiar about him; she just couldn’t put her finger on it. When she first saw him, it made her nervous and on edge; but when he talked to her, it was as if she was talking to a family member. She just shrugged her shoulders. Lord, I must be goofy, she thought.

Magarita, a five-foot-six woman, is forty-six years old, a widower, and a mother of three. Her oldest son, Jonathan is five, Ethan is now three, and little Sarah just turned two. She originated from Nebraska, but being the daughter of an Air Force pilot, she moved around a lot. She had long light-brown hair that she had pulled up into a bun and aqua-green eyes. She wasn’t traveling for a vacation either; she was called back to London to sort out a problem between her in-laws and her. She wasn’t looking forward to the meeting, but it had to be done. She needed to get herself and her children back on their own and out of her mother’s house.

HLS office, Des Moines

Diana was in the filing room putting away some of the closed files from the other agents. She was lost in thought and was robotically filing the folders. Something was going on with Rita, her cousin. Rita had been on Diana’s heart for at least a couple of weeks, but it was stronger this last week. She was constantly sending up prayers for the Lord to help guide and protect her.

Diana, a strong-willed albeit soft-spoken five-foot-eight, forty-six-year-old minister’s daughter, had long light-brown hair and hazel eyes. Eyes that had the ability to put people at ease or slice right through them. She was new to the DHS office, having worked there only for a year. She really wasn’t an agent; she was more of an advisor slash secretary. She relied on the Lord to help her understand situations and people. That ability came in handy in her work with DHS. Director Zenon agreed to hire her as long as she was kept out of the line of fire. For the most part, her partners managed to do that, even with Diana’s ability to draw trouble to her. She was concentrating so much on Rita, she wasn’t feeling a warm kindred spirit nearby. She had just put the last file in the filing cabinet when she heard, What’s eating on ya, Kitten? Diana looked over toward the familiar voice. Ben stood leaning up against the doorway watching her.

Benjamen, or Ben, a muscular-built, six-foot-four, forty-seven-year-old Special Ops veteran, had brown hair and sapphire-blue eyes. He looked like he should be out on a horse in the open range with his usual blue jeans, boots, Western-style shirt, and cowboy hat. He worked with the Department of Homeland Security office in the city of Des Moines, Iowa. He had been working with the DHS office for ten years now. He had the instincts to read situations, and he easily read people. He only had trouble reading one person, one that he had met almost two years ago. She was now his wife.

Diana gave him a broad smile asking, Were you able to get the evidence to nail that creep?

Yep, he’ll be out of commission for a good long time. Allen says hello by the way, Ben replied. He walked in, stood next to Diana, then reached down and pulled her up off the floor that she was kneeling on. Are you trying to avoid my question? Ben asked with a raised eyebrow.

Diana looked into two sapphire-blue pools and grinned. Umm, maybe, she teased. Her smile then faded. No…there’s something going on with my cousin Rita, but He hasn’t told me what. I guess I’m going to have to try to give her another call and find out.

Ben caressed his hands up and down her arms. I haven’t gotten my welcome-home kiss yet.

I’m afraid you’re gonna have to wait for that babe, you know the rules, Diana warned. Ben put on a totally dejected face. Diana chuckled and stretched up to give him a quick kiss. He wrapped an arm around her, cradling her head, holding her there as he kissed her back.

Thank you, he quietly whispered. Diana grinned and walked on past him toward the door.

Hey Kitten, where’s Scott at? Ben called out.

Diana turned and got very somber. His grandfather called him. He left for Scotland early this morning, he seemed uneasy. I don’t know if it’s his grandfather’s health that’s failing or what.

Ben walked over and put his hand on the side of Diana’s face and caressed his thumb over her cheek. I’ll find out when I call him. Diana nodded, turned, and walked back to her desk.

Ben turned and went to check in with Zenon. He was stopped by a couple of other agents just outside the door. Hey Tiger, they called. Ben turned to address them. Did you get everything taken care of in New York?

Yeah, I’m back home, Ben replied.

Good. Maybe you can get a smile put back on Milady’s face. She’s been so solemn for the last few weeks. We can’t even get a smile out of her in the gym, Agent Smith stated.

Ben looked over at his wife. She’s worried about a cousin. I’ll take her to the pool tonight and see if I can’t work some of that tension off.

I heard she whipped your butt the last time. Are you sure you’re up to the challenge, just getting back and all? one colleague teased.

One, she didn’t whip my butt, she only won by a half a second. Two…well, never mind two. It’s none of your business. Ben grinned. The other agents laughed and slapped Ben on the shoulder. The commotion brought Diana’s attention to them. She looked over at Ben and the other two agents. She read very clearly what was in Ben’s eyes. She arched an eyebrow up and gave him a warning look. He met her gaze and simply winked at her. She shook her head and went back to typing on the laptop. Ben excused himself from the two agents and turned to talk to Zenon.

At 5:00 p.m., Diana said her goodbyes to the office and clocked out. There just isn’t time for a workout at the gym tonight. I’ll have to make it up on another day, she thought. She drove over to the daycare center to pick up the twins, then drove home.

Ben had a few more reports to finish out before he could leave. It took him until 6:00 p.m. before he finally left the office. He decided to stop off and pick up a few carnations for Diana. Unfortunately he had to argue with the florist to get them. The florist stated that roses were the better choice for a coming-home flower, but Ben insisted. The florist shook his head and wrapped up a mixed dozen of purple, crimson, and white carnations in paper and tied it with a ribbon. Ben sternly paid the man and walked out the door with the flowers. At 6:43 p.m., Ben walked in the door of his two-story Victorian house. He was met by two very excited twins. Hey munchkins, how are you two doing? Ben asked, laying the carnations on the counter then kneeling down to give Kora and Brock a hug. I think you two have grown another inch. He smiled as he held his youngest. Where’s Mommy at?

She’s in the kitchen working on supper. It smells good, doesn’t it? Kora replied.

It most definitely does. Ben nodded.

Did you get the bad guy in New York, Daddy? Brock asked.

Yep. Daddy always gets his man, Ben jested. He released the two from his hold. Brock and Kora went back into the living room to finish watching Bindi. He picked the flowers back up and walked down the hall and stood at the kitchen doorway. Diana, who always had music going whenever she could, had her Pandora set to ’80s music. Ben stood watching Diana dancing around at the sink as she was putting a salad together. He let his eyes slowly move down her. She had her dark-green short-sleeved blouse on, with her dark-blue jeans. He smiled when he saw that she was barefoot. He wanted to scoop her up and carry her to the bedroom, but his stomach was growling for some good food. After a week of fast food and junk, he was starving for some good old homemade food.

Diana felt the scan. She smiled and stopped dancing around. I don’t think it would be a good idea to serve Swedish meatballs cold, you’re just gonna have to wait, Tiger, she teased, not bothering to turn around. Ben came up and stood directly behind her. He wrapped one arm around her waist, nuzzled into her neck, then he slowly brought up the flowers in the other hand. Oh, they’re beautiful. I love carnations, thank you, Diana keened as she dried her hands with the towel and took them from him.

I missed you. A week is way too long to be away from you, Ben whispered in her ear. She turned and looked up at him; her emerald-green eyes with their small ring of gold were looking up at him, love shining through them. Are we sure we can’t postpone supper a little bit? he softly asked as he gently caressed his hand through her hair.

’Fraid not Tiger, Diana said as she pressed in toward his caress. BJ will be home in a few minutes. You know what he’s like. If supper isn’t ready within five minutes of him walking in that door, I won’t have any food whatsoever left in the house to feed the rest of us for the entire week.

Ben shook his head. He figured his mother felt the same way when he was a teenager. Where’s Kaira at? he asked, still keeping Diana close to him, caressing her back with his thumb.

She’s studying with Melissa. She’s supposed to be here by seven, Diana replied.

Ben traced his fingers down the side of her face, then he leaned down and kissed her, pulling her tight against him. They were still ‘occupied’ when he heard BJ and Kaira walk in the door. Is that Dad’s car in the drive? Kaira asked the twins.

Did he get home today? BJ asked at the same time.

Ben let go of Diana and cupped her face. Yep, I’m home, he called out as he turned to meet his kids in the living room. Diana listened to him catch up with the kids’ events as she put the carnations in a vase, set them on the table, then turned to finish getting the supper ready.

London, England

The plane landed at 9:10 p.m. at Heathrow Airport. They were allowed to disembark shortly after. Scott stood up and grabbed his carry-on and walked down the ramp. He scanned the terminal trying to locate the lady the Lord said would need his help. He couldn’t see her. He quickly made it through the security checks and walked outside to the front of the airport terminal. He felt the alarms going off in his spirit. They seemed to be coming from his left, so he turned to see what was going on. He saw that woman, escorted by two guys, being pushed into the back seat of a black sedan. There was no way he could get over to her in time. He watched and focused in to get the license number off the sedan. GBVX8, he said out loud. He pulled out his phone and wrote the plate down on the memo app. He needed to find out what he was up against.

He headed over to the hotel, going over in his head what he would need to do. As he threw his bag down on the bed, he sat down on the nearby chair. Lord, I’m gonna need some help here. Is it okay to bring Ben in on it? he prayed out loud. He felt the Lord’s affirmation. He just hoped Ben was done with his assignment for Allen. He waited till 4:00 a.m. before he reached over and grabbed his cell phone. He pushed a few numbers and waited for a reply; it seemed to take forever for Ben to answer.

Tigere here, Ben slowly replied.

Hey Ben, did you make it home yet? Scott asked.

Yeah, I came in this afternoon, Ben stated.

Sorry, bro. I didn’t mean to interrupt things. Scott chuckled.

You’ve managed. What do you need? Ben pushed.

I hate to do this to you, seeing how you just got home, but I’m gonna need your help, Scott soberly replied.

What’s up? Ben asked with more interest.

This one is from the Lord. I met Diana’s twin in the airplane on the way to England today. The Lord told me that I needed to be ready to help her. When I got out of the terminal in London, I saw her being shoved into a sedan by two guys. I have no idea what is going on, what I’m up against, nor do I know where they took her. All I’ve got is her description and a license number, Scott informed him. Not a lot to work with I know. That’s why I need your help. You’ve got the connections here.

Diana’s twin, huh? Kitten, did you know you had a twin? Ben asked Diana, not waiting for a reply. Okay…I’ll get clearance from Zenon to head over there. I’ll see you tomorrow, Ben affirmed.

Tell my sister I’m sorry. I’ll make it up to her when I get home, Scott jested.

Good night, Scott, he heard Diana singsong say on the phone just before the connection was closed. He had to laugh. A slight blush came across his face. He shook it off and turned on the TV.

Des Moines

Diana lay there caressing her fingers across Ben’s back. She wanted to go with him to England, but she needed to find out what was going on with Rita. What’s the matter Kitten? Ben questioned as he moved to lie on his side.

Trying to figure out what to do, she simply replied.

About what? he probed as he caressed her arm.

I want to go with you to England, but I need to find out what’s going on with Rita. I can’t reach her on her phone, she added.

I don’t know what I’m walking into in England. I don’t want you there, Ben informed her. She looked over and arched an eyebrow up at him. He looked into her light-gray eyes. Now…babe, don’t challenge this one. If I knew more of what was going on, I’d probably let you go, but I don’t yet. I’ll call you if it turns out to be minor. We’ll make it a belated anniversary date, okay?

She lay there studying him, reading between the lines. However, she felt the burden of Rita on her heart. She sighed and nodded her head. I’ve got to find out about Rita first anyway. However, if I hear of you or my brother going to the hospital, I’m going to be spitting tacks all the way over there. So no hospitals, understood? she insisted.

Ben pulled her to him. I’ll do my best. He snuggled her in close, and both went to sleep. He was awakened with the stirring of Diana. She was asleep, but it wasn’t a restful sleep. Shh, Kitten, I’m here, he whispered. He fingered through her hair and watched as she settled down into a peaceful sleep. He remembered she was doing the same thing before he left for New York. He counted it as her being worried about him leaving. He deliberated a bit, but then fell back to sleep himself.

Chapter 2

In a factory by the Thames

Margarita felt beyond dull. She couldn’t get her mind to focus in on anything. It was like she stepped inside one of Van Gogh’s impressionist paintings. Everything was blurry and distorted. Try to remember Margarita , she told herself. She remembered the plane ride and how turbulent it was. It was so bad that on her way back from the bathroom, she fell. Luckily a really handsome Southern gentleman was gracious enough to keep her from making a total fool of herself. He called me Diana . I wonder if… , she recounted. She shook her head and dismissed it. There’s no way things could be that much of a coincidence , she chided herself. She went back to concentrating on trying to remember what was going on. She remembered going through the security checks and walking out of the terminal at Heathrow. She could see herself hail a taxi…then, Something stung me, she said out loud. Her mind was slowly coming out of the fog. She wasn’t stung, someone injected something into her. She vaguely remembered being escorted into a sedan. Two men, one big guy dressed in jeans and a T-shirt. The other, a tall guy dressed in a pair of slacks and a pale-blue oxford shirt; they pushed her into the vehicle. They must have brought me here, but where’s here? she questioned. She looked around to see what she could figure out. It was dark; only the light that came from a half-moon lit the area. It was a small room. It had one window that had bars on it to keep thieves from breaking in. There were some crates stacked in the corner of the wall. She was sure she could hear a river or moving water nearby, so she carefully stood up, making sure her legs would hold her. Luckily, they were strong; only her head was muddled. She slowly made her way to the crates and worked to quietly move them so that she could use them like a ladder to look out the window. From the window she could see a fast-flowing river just a few feet from the building. It has to be a factory , she told herself. That means I’m still in London somewhere, and the river is probably the Thames ; at least that was what she hoped. She could see a stand of trees and a thicket on the far bank, but that was all she could make out. She got off the crates and carefully walked toward the door. She slowly tried the doorknob; it was locked. She knelt down to look through the keyhole to see what was on the other side of the door. Unfortunately, she couldn’t see anything; it was far too dark. Now what are you going to do? she said to herself. She shook her head and shrugged; she had no clue what she was going to do. She walked back over to the cot and sat down. Psalm 23 popped into her head. The key phrase, Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil.

Lord, I need Your help here, Margarita prayed. She felt the Lord’s presence; it seemed to be holding her. It was comforting and calming to her. She was still new to her walk with God. She hadn’t met Him when she was young, not like some of her family. She didn’t truly come to the Lord until after her husband, Edward, died almost three years ago. She lay down and fell asleep in the Lord’s embrace.

Des Moines

Ben woke up at six in the morning; Diana was still asleep. She was cuddled up against him. Her head was on his chest, her hand tucked under her head, her one leg over his. He didn’t want to move. He wanted to lie there and enjoy the moment. Maybe he’d have a little fun while waking her up. Unfortunately, he had to get to the office to clear time off with Zenon. Ben slowly started to move out away from Diana. He heard her moan in rebellion to him leaving her. He leaned down and kissed her forehead and caressed the back of his hand down her face, then headed to the bathroom to get cleaned up and ready for the day. By the time Ben came out of the bathroom, he noticed the bed was made and Diana wasn’t in the room. He walked out into the kitchen, the coffeepot was on and the teapot heated, but Diana wasn’t there either. He wanted to touch base with her since she was awake. He poured himself a cup of coffee, adding a little sugar in it, then went to put the spoon in the sink. He glanced out the kitchen window. Duh Tiger, you should know her by now, he chided himself. He took his coffee cup and headed out onto the deck. Diana was sitting on the swing, sipping her tea, and reading her Bible. It was a chilly spring morning. The dew was thick on the ground, and the sunlight was just barely shining over the horizon. Diana was wearing a pair of black sweatpants and a gray sweatshirt. Good morning babe, he quietly said as he sat down near her.

Good morning. She glanced up and gleamed a beautiful smile. Missed you this morning, she softly stated.

You were sleeping so well, I didn’t want to wake you up, Ben replied. Where ya reading at?

Psalm 57, Diana stated as she glanced up from reading.

Ben smiled. That’s a good chapter. He pulled her legs over his lap and started to caress them. Diana looked over toward her husband and studied him, then closed her Bible and sat it and the cup of tea on the deck.

Tiger, what’s wrong? Ben didn’t say anything. Diana pulled her legs down and scooted over next to him. She put her hand up on the side of his face and made him look at her. Ben?

He looked into her blue studying eyes and saw the concern. I just wanted to be with you and the kids longer. I’m being selfish I guess. Are you planning on going back to Nebraska to talk to Rita?

Diana smiled. You’re not being selfish. I didn’t give you a chance to sleep last night, you’re still tired. I’m the selfish one. As far as heading to Nebraska? I’m going to make a few more phone calls. If I can’t get answers from those, yes, I’ll be heading to Kearney. I’ve got to find out what is going on.

Ben put his arm around Diana’s back and pulled her over onto his lap. You are in no ways selfish, he whispered, then kissed her.

They started to hear movement in the kitchen. The chitlins are up and moving. I suppose we’d better get inside, Diana whispered. Ben nodded, then he stood up lifting Diana with him; he slowly lowered her down to stand on the deck. They walked into the kitchen together and started the day.

*****

Diana rode with Ben to the office. She figured she could drop Ben off at the airport then take the Equinox to Nebraska if necessary. It also gave her more time to be with him. Zenon was more than willing to let Diana off to take care of family matters. He was a little more reluctant to let Ben off. Eventually Zenon granted him a week to deal with it. Ben, who already had his clothes packed and in the SUV, drove to the airport. He was to take the 8:00 a.m. flight to New York. He had to push the speed to get there on time. Diana was quiet all the way to the airport. He looked over at her. Are you pouting in that hole of yours Kitten?

Diana blinked and focused back in. Sorry, what did you say?

Ben, who had just pulled into a parking spot, put the Equinox in park and turned it off. Diana, what’s going on?

I wish I knew. The Lord is not giving me more information. I really need to get to Rita. I can’t explain it any more than that. It’s just a feeling of importance, Diana stated.

Do I need to stay here? Ben asked. He could see in her eyes that she was worried and frustrated that she didn’t know what was going on.

No, Scott needs you. You told him you were going to be there, and he’s counting on you. I’m probably just overreacting, Diana insisted.

I highly doubt it. I can call Scott and tell him I’ve got another situation going on, Ben countered.

No…you go. Maybe I’ll join you in England in a few days, Diana hinted.

Not unless I call you. I don’t want you there if there’s a major situation, Ben warned. He saw impishness flash through her eyes. Diana, not until I make sure it’s going to be safe, understood?

I suppose, she quipped.

Ben caressed her face, then glided his hand down to her neck and pulled her to him. I love you, he said, stroking his thumb across her cheek.

I love you too. Don’t let my brother keep you away too long, she warned as she leaned in for a goodbye kiss. Ten minutes later, Ben was waiting in line at the security check.

London, England, Saturday

Three hours after he called Ben, Scott headed over to the police department. He didn’t get very far with the visit though. He didn’t know the lady’s name. He didn’t have authorization to have them look up the license plate number. And seeing how the lady didn’t seem to be in peril when she was put in the sedan, there was nothing they could do but write a report. Scott was getting frustrated. He knew that she was in trouble, but he couldn’t tell them how he knew it. Ben had texted him earlier; he should be arriving around three that afternoon. That gave him six hours before he needed to be there to pick him up. I’d better go find out what Granda wants. I should have time to get there and back, especially if I push it, Scott thought as he smiled. He couldn’t go any further to help the lady, not until Ben opened some doors for him. He arranged for a rent-a-car instead of using the bus. He signed the papers for a black Hundi i30, then headed over to Gretna.

*****

In a factory near the Thames, Rita was awakened by the sound of keys raking across the metal door plate. The door slowly creaked opened, and one of the men that put her in the sedan walked in. Top of deh morn’n to ya, Lady Wheat’n. I brough’ ya some brekfas’, he stated.

Could you tell me why I was brought here? Margarita calmly but strongly asked.

Sorry, ma’am…I’m no’ allow tu sae. I’m jus’ suppos’ to keep ya here til deh boss com, he replied.

And just who is the boss? she sneered.

Uh, I’m no’ allow tu sae, the man sheepishly answered.

Uh-huh…and how long am I to be held here? Rita continued.

Tha’ will be op tu ya, ma’am. The man smiled.

Well, since it’s up to me, I would like to leave now please, she insisted.

I caw’t do dat, ma’am. No’ til deh boss see ya, he stated as he shook his head. He moved a few boxes over and put the tray of toast and jam with a cup of coffee down on them, then he turned and walked out of the room.

Margarita heard the keys turn in the door, but she went and tried the door anyway. No surprise that it didn’t open. She turned toward the window, climbed up, and looked out. In the daylight, she could see a ferry heading upstream. There were cars driving by in the distance. There has to be a main road there, she thought. Seeing how there was nothing she could do yet, she went back to the cot, sat down, and ate a scone, drank some coffee, and thought of what she was going to do to get out of there.

Des Moines

Diana went back to the house. BJ and Kaira were in the living room waiting for Becca to come and pick them up. They were going to help work the cattle with Ben’s parents. Kora and Brock were finishing up their Froot Loops in the kitchen. So how long do you think Dad will be gone this time? BJ asked.

I hope not long. We’d like to get some family fun things going, Diana stated with a smile.

Whatcha got planned? Brock asked as he walked in from the kitchen.

If I tell you, it won’t be a surprise. Diana grinned as she teased.

Aw, come on, Mom. You can tell us. We’ll act surprised when Dad’s around, Kaira pleaded. Diana smiled, but shook her head no. She was glad the kids called her Mom; she wasn’t sure Kaira and BJ would. They were old enough to remember their biological mom. The twins were still in diapers when Katherine died. It was a bumpy ride to start with, but it was flowing well now. Diana heard a car honk and looked out the living room window. Your aunt Becca is here, are you two ready?

Yep. We’ll see you in a week, BJ replied as he and Kaira picked up their bags and walked out the door.

Okay, be safe, Diana stated as she walked out behind them. She waved at Becca, who smilingly returned her wave. She stood outside till Becca was driving down the street; then she went back inside. Kora and Brock took over the TV as soon as BJ and Kaira started walking out the door. She saw that they were watching Dora the Explorer. I’ve got to make a few calls, so I’ll be in the kitchen, Diana informed them. They nodded their heads, but she doubted they really heard what she said. She sat down at the kitchen table, pulled her cell phone out of her pocket, and started by calling her aunt Charlette. An hour later, Diana knew a few more important details. She knew that Rita lost her house, and she and the kids were living with her mom. The reason Rita lost the house was because, even though Rita was working, it wasn’t enough to make ends meet. She was relying on a monthly stipend from Edward’s annuity. For whatever reason, they ceased paying it. Finally, Aunt Charlette told Diana that a week ago Rita received a letter requesting her to come to London to discuss the situation with the Duke and Duchess Wheaton. She left for England yesterday. I wonder if she was on Scott’s flight, Diana thought. Diana tried to give Ben a call. She wanted to have him check the airline logs to see if she made it there once he landed, but Ben wasn’t answering. He’s on the plane, you idiot, she scolded herself. She decided to call Adam at the office.

Agent Smith here, was stated as the call was picked up.

Hi Adam, it’s Diana, she replied.

Hey Milady, what can I do for you? Agent Smith asked.

I need you to do me a favor. Look up the manifests of flights going from New York to London. I need to know if Margarita Wheaton was on one of those flights, Diana requested.

That’s going to take some time. Do you need it right now? Agent Smith informed her.

I’ve got time, but I might be able to shrink the search down a little. She may have been on the Delta flight leaving at 1:00 p.m. yesterday, Diana added.

Diana heard Adam typing on the computer. Hmm…yep, here she is. Margarita Wheaton was on the Delta flight 545. It arrived in London at 9:10 last night. According to the logs, she went through the checks and left the terminal, Agent Smith concluded.

Thanks, Adam. I owe you one, Diana stated.

Bring one of your pies the next time you come in, and we’ll call it even, Agent Smith suggested.

It’s a deal, Diana agreed and ended the call. Next she looked up the phone number of Duke Wheaton’s mansion. She dialed it, and when she finally got someone to answer, she asked for Duke Wheaton. She found out that he had no idea about any letter, and no idea where his former daughter-in-law was at. Diana ended that call, working to keep her temper down, and dialed Ben hoping he was between flights. Benjamen James, pick up the flipping phone! she quipped as she listened to the phone ring. She sat there at the table trying to figure what she should do next. She looked up flights to London, finding one that left in two hours. It will be pushing it…but I think I can make it, she said to herself. She knew if Ben saw her in London, he would be furious; but she couldn’t get him to answer his phone, and the last whereabouts of Rita was the airport in London. She had to follow that lead. She made arrangements for Kora and Brock to stay with her parents, telling them that she hoped she’d be home in a few days. She threw some clothes and toiletries into a carry-on bag, packed the twins’ clothes, and then loaded them into the Equinox. After dropping them off at her parents, she made a mad dash to the airport. She called Director Zenon on the way to let him know where she was heading and why, just in case something went wrong. She made it to her seat just before they shut the plane’s door. She was going to have a switchover in New York, and then barring any complications, she’d be in London by seven that night. If the Lord gives a little push, she might make it by six.

Scotland

Scott was beyond upset, his red face showed his anger; his normally kind warm green eyes, cold and dark. He made the trip all the way to Gretna only to find out that his grandfather wasn’t home. The butler, Clancy, wouldn’t even tell him where his grandfather went. It was a wasted trip and waste of time. He stopped off at the local pub to see if just maybe his grandfather happened to be there. He wasn’t. Several old friends and distant family members were there, so he had to touch base with them before he could excuse himself. After that, he was out the door and back on the road toward London. He was only halfway there when Ben gave him a call. They agreed that Ben would take a cab to the hotel and Scott would pick him up from there.

At the airport, Ben ended his call with Scott. He could hear that Scott was mad just by the tone of his voice. Maybe the drive here will calm him down some, Ben thought. He noticed that Diana had tried to call him. He proceeded to call her back, but she didn’t answer. He figured he would try again later that evening. He hailed a taxi and headed to the hotel where Scott was staying. He charmed his way into getting the key to Scott’s room from a young little brunette. He put his stuff in the closet, then sat down in the chair near the window. It was 4:30 p.m. before Scott got there to pick him up.

Sorry, bro. I drove over to find out what my grandfather wanted, but he wasn’t even home. It was a major waste of time, Scott steamed.

It’s fine. It gave me a chance to focus in. Let’s head directly over to Daniel. He can get through the red tape, Ben stated. The guys jumped into Scott’s rented i30 and headed over to MI5. Daniel was busy talking with a person on another investigation, so the guys had to wait till he was available.

Back in the factory by the Thames, Margarita had been left alone in the room for several hours. She could hear Big Ben chiming its time throughout the day. Her jailer brought her lunch at 12:30 p.m., but that was it. She had looked at the cucumber sandwich and tea and just couldn’t convince herself to eat it. Lord, what is going on? Why am I here? she prayed. She didn’t expect an answer, she had never heard directly from the Lord before, but this time she did. You have to trust Me. You will be freed soon, the Lord told her. At first it made her jumpy, hearing from Him. She then realized how much peace she felt when the Lord talked to her. She settled down and calmed her mind.

At 3:00 p.m. her jailer came back in. She saw he had something in his hand. Sorae, Ladae Wheat’n, I need tu pu’ dis on ya, he stated as he came near her. She stood and was getting ready to fight him when another man came in and stood at the door with a gun in his hand.

I wouldn’t fight him, Lady Wheaton. I’d hate to have to put a hole in that lovely figure of yours, he warned.

She let the first man put a blindfold on her. Ya do’t haf tu be su mean, Trevor, she a ladae, he stated as he started to guide Margarita out.

Whatever, Jasper. She’s just a female, no different than any other female. She would have fought you if I hadn’t threatened her, she heard this Trevor guy reply. She felt the man grab her arm. They guided her some fifty steps then sat her down in a chair. Her leg bumped against a piece of wood. She figured there must be a table in front of her. She heard a door shut and some shuffling around; then she heard a click and felt heat on her face.

Jasper, would you remove Lady Wheaton’s blindfold please, she heard a man state. He had a nasal high-pitched voice. It sounded like one of the characters on a cartoon the kids liked to watch. She could picture him in her mind with black hair and thick large round glasses. Margarita blinked several times struggling to see once the blindfold was off. There was a floodlight in front of her, blinding her. She reached her hand up to block the light out, but Jasper quickly grabbed it and pushed it back down.

What is this all about? she sneered.

Precise and to the point I see. I will concede to your request. I need your signature, the man across the table flatly stated.

My signature…on what? she chided.

On a paper stating that Jonathan, Ethan, and Sarah are not Edward’s, the man informed her.

And why exactly would I sign a paper stating that they are not his? she replied.

It would just be stating the truth, he quipped.

Not hardly, she sneered. And why would that matter to you?

Let’s just say the Chief wants things to stay on the up and up, he continued.

She could hear the laughter in his voice; she was nobody’s amusement. Do you really think I will just willy-nilly sign that ridiculous piece of paper? she countered.

Yes, I do, he affirmed. Jasper, the pen please. The longer you are here, the less time you have to be with your children. Jasper brought a pen over to Lady Wheaton. Margarita grabbed his arm and pulled him against the table. She shoved her chair back and did a karate kick into his chest, sending him to the floor. She heard the movement on the other side of the table, glancing up just in time to see the man that was apparently in control move to the far side of the room. She then saw the door of the room open; Trevor was standing there holding a gun on her. He smiled a pompous, arrogant, wicked smile. She grabbed the pen that Jasper tried to give her and flung it at him like a ninja star. It hit him in the hand that was holding the gun. He dropped the gun and grabbed his hand. The next thing she knew, she was getting jabbed with something in her arm. She quickly looked over to her right. Jasper was injecting something in her. She fought to stay coherent, but she lost the battle, and everything went black.

England Terminal

Diana disembarked from the plane at the Heathrow Airport. The Lord helped her out greatly. Not only was the flight from Des Moines to New York ahead of schedule, but her flight from New York to London was ahead. She made it to London by 5:45 that evening. It gave her time to head over to London’s version of the FBI. Charles gave her the name of an agent working there, an Inspector Daniel Culver. As she was walking through the terminal, she felt a heavy cold presence. She glanced around as nonchalantly as she could. It seemed to be coming from somewhere on her right. She did a glancing look and saw a man talking on the phone near the wall. He kept looking over and watching her. She stayed calm, making sure she was nowhere by herself and walked through the security checks. She figured as long as she was in the terminal with all the security guards, she was safe. She quickly pulled out her phone to call; she saw that Ben had tried to call her back. Great, we’re playing phone tag. Tonight’s not the night I need this, she said out loud. She tried to ring him again; he still didn’t answer. Okay, Lord, You want me to touch base with Rita, You’re gonna have to help me to do that, Diana firmly prayed. She walked out of the terminal and quickly hailed a taxi. There was one right in front of her and open. She jumped in and quickly gave the address to MI5. As the taxi was pulling away, she saw the man, who was supposedly talking on the phone, come dashing out of the terminal. He was quickly looking up and down the row of taxis. He glanced over to the taxi that she was in and started to cuss.

MI5

It was after 5:30 p.m. before Ben and Scott met up with Daniel. Daniel came out of the interrogation room and walked over to the waiting area. Ben, old chap, how are things going? Daniel greeted as he shook Ben’s hand.

It’s been a long time Dan. This is my best friend, Scott McCleary, Ben returned in greeting. Do you have a minute to talk?

Sure, come on. My office is over here, Daniel stated as he led them back to his office. I take it you’re not here for a social visit.

Unfortunately, no, Ben replied.

Too bad. I heard you got remarried. I was hoping you brought her around for us to meet. The roundabout is that she’s got a lot of sauce in her, Dan teased.

Oh, she’s a real tigress. Which is probably why Ben was caught so easily, Scott jabbed. Dan waved his hand toward the chairs for the guys to take a seat. Ben went ahead and sat down by the desk. Scott just leaned up against the filing cabinet on the side of the room.

How can I help you two? Dan asked.

We have an interesting situation. One that needs your touch to get answers for, Ben began. Dan sat down in his chair, leaned forward, and crossed his arms in front of him on his desk. Daniel Culver was a six-foot-three-inch-tall, born and bred Englishman. The thirty-five-year-old had the black hair, dark-brown eyes, and strong jawline that many women dream about. Luckily, he didn’t have to worry about the chase anymore. He was happily married to a wonderful woman and had two fantastic kids of his own. He met Ben a few years back during an operation to track and take down a local-grown terrorist group. Ben was the one that saved him when he was captured and held hostage. So fill me in gentlemen, he pushed.

I came in yesterday on a Delta around nine last night. There was a woman on that plane that seemed to be a little off. When I got out of the terminal, I saw her being shoved into a sedan, Scott informed him. Here is the stitch. I don’t know her name, I don’t know where she was going, and I don’t know what her problem was. I do have a description of her and a license plate number of the sedan she was being shoved into.

He’s not just trying to hook up with this mystery lady, is he? Dan teased, looking at Ben.

Nah, he has his choice of ladies. If he says this one was in trouble, she’s in trouble, Ben corrected.

Yeah, I suppose with that accent and his green eyes, he could make quite a few swoon. Let’s start with the lady’s description. Dan grinned as he pulled out a pen and paper.

While Scott was giving the description of the lady, one of the other men working in the outer office area knocked on Dan’s door. Hang on Scott, enter.

Sir, we have a person asking for you, the agent stated.

I’m a little busy right now. Have them take a seat, Dan scolded.

Sir, you may want to deal with this one right away, the agent urged.

Excuse me, gentlemen, I’ll be right back, Dan stated to Ben and Scott as he scowled at the agent and followed him out of the room. When he got out of the room, the agent pointed toward the seating area by the door. He looked over and saw Lady Wheaton sitting in one of the chairs. He walked over to her and greeted her. Lady Wheaton, what a pleasure to see you back in England. What brought you back from America?

Diana stood up to the gentleman addressing her. Inspector Culver, I’m assuming? she questioned.

Dan studied her. She had her sunglasses on and was wearing jeans and a sweater. It seemed a little odd to him. He had never seen Lady Wheaton wear anything but skirts or riding slacks. I guess it has been a while. Yes, I’m Inspector Culver. How may I help you?

I need to talk to you in private…please, Diana requested. The inspector started leading her to a room down the hallway. As she neared an office, she felt a very familiar presence that stopped her in her tracks.

Lady Wheaton? Are you okay? Dan asked when he saw her freeze and inhale quickly.

Is there an Agent Tigere and Agent McCleary here? Diana pressed.

Dan looked at her. How does she know Ben and his friend? he wondered. Yes, they are here, he replied.

I think it would be advantageous if you would take me to where they are at please, Diana pushed. Inspector Culver stepped toward her and then waved his hand toward his office. He was trying to read her intent, but he wasn’t able to.

In Dan’s office, Ben and Scott were talking about the differences that Scott noticed between Diana and the lady. Ben immediately looked toward the door. I’m gonna tan her hide, he steamed.

Scott looked over at Ben. The Kitten—here? Ben if she’s here, there has to be a reason. Hear her out first. If it isn’t a good enough one, I’ll help you take a swath off.

Ben worked to cool his anger. Even after a year, if he came out attacking, she would bare her own claws. Scott put on his game face. Dan opened the door to his office. Gentlemen, we have a visitor. She insisted upon coming in and talking with you two. He signaled for Lady Wheaton to walk into his office. Ben, Scott, I’m assuming you know Lady Wheaton, he started as an introduction. Diana walked in and saw that Ben was fuming in the chair by the desk, and Scott was looking dark and dangerous by the filing cabinet.

This better be good, Milady, Scott warned.

She turned toward Inspector Culver. Please shut the door. Dan shut the door and walked over to his desk. It was obvious that they knew each other. However, he saw that Scott and, especially Ben, were not pleased to see her. Let me start out by clearing up a misunderstanding, Diana said as she pulled her sunglasses off and put them on top of her head. I’m not Lady Wheaton.

Dan sat looking at a lady that could be Lady Wheaton’s twin. All but her eyes; her eyes were different. I believe you. So who are you? Dan pushed.

My name is Diana, Diana Tigere, she calmly stated.

Dan looked over toward Ben then back to the lady standing in front of his desk. "Tigere as in the same as Agent Tigere?"

Ben stood up from the chair and neared Diana. Dan, this is my deep-in-hot-water wife, Diana Tigere, he stated while glaring at his wife.

Ben…I wouldn’t totally disobey and disregard your wishes if it wasn’t absolutely necessary, Diana countered, looking up at her husband. His eyes were hard and as cold as the sapphire gems that she often referred to in order to explain their color. She watched as they turned to being just a little softer. She’d take it as a positive for now. She turned and looked at Inspector Culver. Lady Wheaton is my cousin…Cousin Rita, she stated as she looked back at Ben then over at Scott.

Scott stood up straight and looked at her. The one that you’ve been trying to get a hold of for the last week? Diana nodded her head.

She turned back to Ben. I did a lot of calling and traced her to getting off the plane here in London. She had, according to Aunt Charlette, received a letter calling her to London to meet with Duke Wheaton at his mansion. When I called him, he said he knew nothing of a letter, nor of her coming to talk to him. I tried to call you several times, as well as just a few moments ago when I was in the terminal. You didn’t answer.

This is an interesting situation. Scott, can you describe the lady you were talking about? Dan asked.

The lady was the mirror image of Diana. Scott smiled. Diana grinned and slightly relaxed with Scott smiling, but yet if what Scott and Ben were working on had to do with Rita, she is in big trouble. Just then Diana felt that heavy cold presence again. Ben’s and Scott’s spirits alerted as well. Ben glanced out the window of the office. Scott noticed the goose bumps showing on Diana’s lower arm. Ben! I thought you broke that trouble magnet of hers.

It wouldn’t be a problem if she’d stayed where I told her to, Ben quipped.

Benjamen, the Lord set this up. Just accept it and get over it, Diana fired. Dan was sitting back and watching this lone female maneuver around these two men. He figured Ben would have had her bawling already with his stance and glare as she introduced herself, but she stood right up to him.

Ben looked over at Dan, who seemed to be amused at the whole scenario. Dan arched an eyebrow up. Well, I haven’t seen the sauce yet, but it’s not normal to see a female stand toe to toe with you.

No, let’s hope she holds her tongue and you don’t see the spitfire. I still may take her to one of the rooms and tan her hide, Ben stated.

Don’t make any promises you’ll regret, Tiger. You know what will happen if I start retaliating, Diana warned. She turned and looked at Inspector Culver. I do, however, sir, have a slight problem.

Does it have to do with that alarm system of yours, Scott quipped.

Unfortunately, yes, she replied.

Who is he? Ben asked, moving over toward the coffeepot to get a better look at him.

I haven’t the foggiest. He started following me halfway through the terminal, Diana replied.

Thus the reason why she tried to call you a short while ago. She needed an escort, Scott jeered.

It seemed the logical thing to do. As it worked out, the Lord made an opening for me to get to a taxi and away from him temporarily, Diana flatly stated.

If you couldn’t get me, why didn’t you call Scott? Ben scolded.

Simple. I never got Scott’s number back into my phone, Diana pointblankly stated.

Okay. Hang on, help me out here. I’m not used to all this undertow wordplay. I am assuming that your wife is talking about someone following her? Daniel asked, trying to get used to the digs from one to another.

Sorry sir. I’m used to working with agents that have grown accustomed to our kind of conversations. Yes, a man, who at the time I noticed him was talking on the phone, has been following me ever since the airport. He is here now in the outer room, Diana informed Inspector Culver.

Wait, you three work together? Dan said in amazement.

Yeah. Ben and I try to keep her out of harm’s way, but she has this ability to draw trouble to her like bears to a honeycomb. I originally thought we had that taken care of when she married Ben. Unfortunately, I’ve been proven wrong—again, Scott jested. Diana gave him a raspberry.

Dan turned toward Diana. Mrs. Tigere, how do you know this man is in the outer office? You haven’t looked out the window since you’ve came in here?

"Just call me Diana please. As hard as this may be for you to believe, I have a way of sensing dangerous intentions," Diana carefully replied.

Is she serious? Can she do that? Dan questioned Ben.

That’s nothing compared to the one-on-one inaudible conversations that the Tiger here has with his Kitten. Scott chuckled.

Kitten? Dan questioned, looking over to Diana.

"It’s a nickname that Ben and Scott use for me. Most