Crissy Chance: Cryptid Trilogy Sequel, #2

By Douglas Roff

About the Book

 

Crissy Chance is the second book in the Cryptid Trilogy Sequels series that began with the novel, April Mayes. It is set in an alternate universe in a world much like ours, but without the challenges that were present in the birth world of the named characters. Adam has, by now, been reborn hundreds of times into new worlds, the deck of characters he once knew and loved always reshuffled. 

In this novel, his first love Misti is now a part of the Suarez family along with her new brother Rodrigo, his wife and children, including mom Maria and Pops Agustin. They reside in the background of the story as Misti and friend Noki Lee surface as Adam's two girlfriends. A new girl, Eene Birkenstock, steps up first as a girl in need of rescue by Misti and Adam in their OT Project, then afterward as an integral part of Adam's two new and pressing projects.

Immortal spirits Hecate and Hana also appear as the story winds down to its inevitable conclusion. 

Criminals in the Triads are chasing women for the secrets they know about a fantastic archeological discovery, and new enemies are after Adam too. Edward St. James is no longer a good dad, but a criminal deeply hidden behind a wall of powerful international authorities. Adam's mother survived the gangland shootout in an LA coffee shop, and is now in league with her husband. Both are psychos who now have a new acolyte, Crissy Chance, a tax attorney and adopted daughter who is deeply involved in their criminal and sexual lives.

Cousins from Adam's past lives are present in this new life helping Adam as he flees New York for Greece, then flees again for Africa.

The names are the same as in past novels, but the characters are different - except Adam.

The central driver of action is the discovery of artifacts and grave goods proving that Marco Polo did reach China, and lived out his entire life there with wives, concubines and children. The cache discovered is immense, and incredibly rare and valuable, setting a cast of characters against Adam and his family for control of the Marco Polo cache, and the wealth it represents. 

But is the cache real? Adam remembers the fraud committed by those behind the "Hitler Diaries" who almost got away with an incredible scam.

But what drives all the people involved, as some live, some are murdered, and all are lying about something, or not saying anything at all.

As usual in Adam's life, there is betrayal, deception and murder. 

What will this life be like for Adam in this new world and new reality, and what will be the incredible and surprising end of this tale. 

Nothing is as it seems, or is it?

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Douglas Roff
• Release date: Sep 20, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223449317

Douglas Roff

Douglas Roff is a retired corporate executive. He has lived around the world working in various capacities for government and industry.  Doug has written twenty-nine novels to date, mostly in the mystery, paranormal and fantasy genres, but not exclusively.  He currently resides in Latin America, speaks Spanish, and is a dual citizen of the United States and Canada.  

Book preview

Chapter 1

Present day, in a different universe.

The young couple sat comfortably on the overlarge, semicircular couch facing an amazing west view of the Aegean Sea. The night was cool, and the side windows were open allowing a breeze to gently flutter through the residence. They looked like a young married couple, which they weren’t, or young lovers who were in for the evening, which they were. They were friends with benefits; their relationship had not risen to the commitment status of boyfriend/girlfriend yet. Not that he didn’t want it, he did, but she didn’t, at least not yet. Their relationship status never interfered with their close friendship; that was built on another, more durable foundation that had changed each of their lives forever only a few years earlier.

The biggest obstacle to commitment was that he liked girls, and so did she.

Nonetheless, they lived together on their own private Greek island off the coast of Crete where she resided most of the year. Ever since they met, and later came to their island hideaway, her occasional business trips had dwindled to a trickle as she gradually wound down her outside business interests. She had come to believe that it was easier to manage her own wealth to pass the time than to sully her hands making deals, attending meetings, and travelling. Besides, she had all the latest hardware and software made for the independent day trader, and had a flair for spotting trends that paid off.

He often asked her to manage his own wealth in addition to hers, and she loved him even more for that. He had changed her life in every way, and he trusted her in all his business and personal matters; even with his life.

At one point, Nocera Noki Lee had been a contract killer, raised on the mean streets of Hong Kong, and brought up to be a loyal and dedicated member of the Triads. Her childhood, after the death of her parents, had not been happy; she rarely spoke of it, even with him. And if she was ever going to discuss it, he was the only one she would ever tell.

Twenty years ago.

She was a scrawny, needy six-year-old girl; not even her own relatives wanted another hungry, whiny mouth to feed. They too were Triad, but foot soldiers, and far from wealthy; besides, the girl squawked too much and needed to be disciplined often. At first auntie and uncle just corrected her behavior, sometimes harshly. But, over time, they grew to enjoy abusing the girl for their own pleasures, and various forms of corporal punishment played a large part in the cruelties they enjoyed inflicting on her. The physical evidence of mistreatment was abundant, and had to be hidden, especially from Mr. Chen, the Triad boss who assigned her to them.

Her one solace in life was school; she could often be found from the early morning hours to as late as she was permitted to stay in the library. If the school knew of her abuse, they said nothing. It was none of their concern what the Triads did raising children. Theirs was a world not to inquire about. When she turned fourteen, Mr. Chen arranged to speak to her at his grand home overlooking Kowloon Bay. The view was magnificent, but the meeting held fears for the teen. She was terrified he might have a new job for her; one she wouldn’t enjoy.

However, fortune smiled upon her.

Uncle Chen had heard of her superior academic prowess at about the same time his wife noted unusual scarring on the child’s arms; she was habitually covered head to toe with plain clothing. Most thought she was just modest; such was not the case.

As she entered the home, she was guided to the spacious balcony overlooking the harbor.

Do you know who I am, child?

Yes, Uncle. You are my benefactor.

"A poor one, but yes. I saw to your private school education and placement with your new family after the untimely death of your parents. They were honorable Hong Kong people, and loved you very much. I fear my choice of guardians, however, was poor. Now it is my wish to change your circumstances."

Yes, Mr. Chen. She hesitated, fearing the worst, May I ask how?

We shall send you to America. Your English is impeccable I hear, but I want you to live like an American, think like an American, and be an American. You will attend private schools and University when the time comes. I expect diligence on your part; it is your obligation to your family and to this Triad. Do you agree, child?

I do, Mr. Chen. Your generosity overwhelms me. I will forever be in your debt.

She sat quietly, hoping to hear more good news, but also wishing to flee. Her needs and wants were seldom taken into consideration, so while this news was welcome, it might also be followed by other demands that were less joyful and happy.

You will also receive training in special martial arts, but we shall discuss that later. For now, my honorable wife wishes you to see our physicians. You will come to live with us here in our home until you leave for America, which will be soon. You will have friends near you and will be placed in a prestigious private school. Fit in, make friends. You will tell everyone that your family is wealthy and that you submit humbly to your parents' wishes that you become educated and useful.

Physicians?

We know now, child. We wish we had known earlier, but we did not. You shall be treated here, then again in America where there are specialists who can heal you and ease your pain. Go now. I hope to meet you again, if not in this lifetime, then in the next.

Thank you, Honorable Chen. I shall make you proud.

Nocera Noki Lee was treated by Chinese herbal specialists in New York City where she attended the exclusive Cabot Academy. She boarded with a Chinese nanny in a luxury high rise condominium in Manhattan not far from her school. She walked to school every day, minded by an older Chinese gentleman who was assigned one task, and one task only; protect the child at all costs.

He did, from high school through university.

Her nanny was kind, but strict.

For University, she was enrolled at NYU by Mr. Chen so she didn’t have to leave New York City. Her martial education with the older man continued and accelerated as she got older; her training during college was specialized and rigorous. She traveled with him to learn various arcane arts and skills; all were related to assassination and murder.

Noki blossomed into a rare beauty, was adorned with expensive jewelry, and wore the finest most sophisticated apparel befitting a woman of her station in life. She was never spoiled, though her benefactor was very proud and rewarded her often for the success she earned. All reports were that Noki Lee, as a rebuilding project, was a phenomenal success.

Noki was popular at school, though considered by many as shy and reserved. In her life away from her classmates, she was just the opposite.

Three years ago.

At age twenty-three, now graduated from college, she was assigned the task of killing a wealthy entrepreneur on a contract basis. The gang, now run by Mr. Chen's son, wanted a quick job eliminating the CEO, and have it look like robbery gone bad. Noki had no issue carrying out her task; she relished the opportunity. Her Triad family had been generous; it was a matter of honor to fulfill her commitments to them.

Then something changed and, though the task remained the same, her employer did not.

Mr. Chen's son, Chen Xi Li, was less cautious than his father and hadn’t done any meaningful background research on the American target. He simply assumed that the young man with a reputation for brilliance and chasing skirt was a typical American CEO; soft and easily manipulated by beautiful women, then lured anywhere for sex.

The target was Adam St. James, and her new boss, the young Mr. Chen was misinformed about him. This particular executive was far from soft, and while he enjoyed female company immensely, his reputation for chasing skirt was an exaggeration. Rather, he was both hard working and lethal. Nocera Lee was overconfident; she also believed the faulty intelligence, and in the ease of the assignment. She had atypically prepared little and planned for her assignment even less.

This incomplete and incorrect information was given to her new employer, a Yakuza boss. A superficial plan was formulated, but her new employer relied on the information provided by Noki's old employer whose credentials were thought to be impeccable.

For the father, the senior Mr. Chen, yes. For the son, the junior Mr. Chen, no.

Noki was told to bump into her target somewhere upscale, engage in banter, allow herself to be taken back to his penthouse where she would quickly and quietly disable his security cameras, drug him, then finish him off. She would carry a small calibre pistol in her clutch purse, and a stiletto strapped to one of her inner thighs. If he was brutish, she would play with him cruelly first before mercifully ending his life.

Noki disliked most men. If she disliked this one, he would die slowly. This would please her new master and his high tech corporate client; she would videotape his death as proof of her work, and follow specific instructions.

They met at an art museum function in Soho. She was by far the most exotic and beautiful woman in the room; he was by far the richest. He had just sold his company, the St. James Mindwerks, to another multinational for well over five billion in cash, but stayed on as Chief Technology Consultant for an obscene amount of money. His close friend and Senior VP of Everything, Kalindra Wright, was opposed to the move as unnecessarily limiting his options. She thought he should be free to do as he pleased, not what the new owner wanted. Taking her advice, the parties agreed to rewrite the contract at the last minute in such a way so that the new owner could ask, but not require, Adam St. James to work on any project of which he did not personally approve.

He could, for example, decline any military work, and if this covenant was breached by the new owners, Betcon International Holdings Incorporated, BIH, would owe liquidated damages in the tens of millions of dollars. Sixty percent of his work had to be developed for BIH, but the rest was his to decide. Sales of any non-BIH technology unrelated to BIH's core businesses would be split equitably between the parties.

The attraction between Noki and Adam at the gallery was not initially mutual; both wandered around the exhibits of local artists for more than hour, chatting up the locals, before he finally approached Noki sitting alone in a small exhibition room with a group of four paintings. They had noticed each other earlier; this was a dance.

I see you are checking your phone and looking around every ten minutes or so. Is he just late, or a pathetic no-show?

"What makes you think it’s a man, or that I’m waiting for anyone?"

Just trying to make small talk. Would you prefer some company while you wait? I’m happy to disappear when you ‘plus one’ arrives.

She smiled.

It wouldn’t be the worst thing that could happen tonight. Please have a seat; maybe we can solve world hunger while I wait. I’m Nocera, but everyone calls me Noki.

I’m Adam, but everyone calls me ... Adam.

A slight crease that could be taken for a smile crossed her lips.

She asked, Do you practice much?

Sorry?

Being charming. Having the right quip for every occasion? I think of handsome and sophisticated men like you as having attended a private ‘charm school’ for the seduction of women. Women swoon and the next thing they know they’re in your tastefully appointed flat being undressed, panties dropping to the floor beside your king size bed. Or is it a ‘California King’?

Wow. That was good. Hardly true, but I sure wish it was. I’m married to my work, my family, and my friends. Not much time for female seduction. Do you know of any good charm schools though? I’d like to learn more about them. Purely research, you understand.

"So, you’re handsome, rich and not gay?"

Would it matter if I was? Gay I mean.

"Not in the least. Just calculating my chances with you if my friend is a no show. She was my college roommate but abandons me regularly these days for her very delectable husband."

It’s a sad story, but if she doesn’t show or call, I’ll be happy to be your ‘plus one’. Or you could be mine.

I’m a control freak. You’re with me.

You’re the lady.

An hour passed with no call from Noki’s imaginary ex-roommate, and none could, or would, ever show up.

Well, this has been a lot of fun. I like you, but it’s time to go.

May I walk you out and put you in a cab? Or my driver can drop you.

You’re not coming?

Where?

"To your place. I must see what the well-healed gentleman of this century chooses for his residence here in Manhattan. Modern?"

No. Eclectic. I own a five story and live on the top floor. I have a lab and work space on the floors below. I have guest rooms for visitors and friends who have been kicked out by lovers, roommates, or spouses. I like company, but only the right kind.

Like me?

Maybe. I don’t know you. You might be a psycho or a contract killer. Hard to tell after just one night at the museum.

The remark unsettled Noki who thought she might bail either on the assignment or the night. Maybe kill him some other time somewhere else.

Noki said, Well there’s only one way to find out.

Lie detector test?

No, I have a better idea.

Present day.

Noki felt safe with him. Not the safety one feels about physical danger, but emotional safety, the kind that lets a contract killer sleep at night knowing she is loved and belongs somewhere other than in the violent world where no tomorrow is ever assured.

She whispered, Tonight I want to, if you’re in the mood

What? Make dinner? You can’t cook.

No.

Lose at Monopoly again?

You cheat.

I do not. I’m into creative financing and distracting my opponent.

Whatever.

Oh, he said. "You mean that. That hot and sweaty thing. The exchange of bodily fluids."

"Yes, and you know what I meant. It’s been a while, and I’m ... squirmy."

Horny? And I’m the only game in town on this rock?

"Yes, I am, and you know the other thing is not true. I love being here with you and doing the ‘other thing’ here on our island."

And you love me.

Maybe. But you’re really not my type. You’re too handsome, too rich, and too good in the kitchen. But, you are, however, only adequate in the sack. But you’ll have to do. I like you.

Opposites attract, or so the song goes. Lucky for me your taste in men is so poor.

Chapter 2

Three years ago.

Adam’s driver, a holdover from his CEO days, dropped off Adam and Noki at the front door of his five story Manhattan residence. The driver took notice of the breathtaking Asian beauty, her tasteful dress, and general appearance. It was his job to notice details that could signal problems for his boss but, in this case, he saw nothing out of the ordinary. Perhaps the only small detail was that she was fully covered with attire from her tasteful Italian hand-crafted high heels to her neckline. Probably culturally appropriate dress. As he looked at the pair he thought it must be business; Adam was decent looking, but his guest was drop dead gorgeous and way out of his league, at least in the looks department. Adam had many female friends and never lacked for company, but they tended to be work or business colleagues, socialites who were bored and 'slumming it', or college classmates in town for a visit. Some stayed for the weekend, some for weeks, and some went home in the early morning hours.

Not all were unattached, which, his driver warned Adam, might get him in trouble one day.

Never thought to ask, to be honest. I don’t think it’s ever come up.

Next time check where a wedding ring goes. If they’re not up front about it, you’re asking for husband trouble.

There would be no such trouble this night, however.

As Adam unlocked and opened the front door, he turned to Noki and said, Would you mind removing your ...

Shoes?

No, all your clothing.

He burst out laughing.

No, remain clothed, I was just screwing with you. But the look on your face was precious.

For a second I thought ...

Another pig? Lying, fucking, asshole bastard. More of the usual? No, just checking on your sense of humor.

Some might say it’s not funny. Especially to women.

"You’re right, of course. It was an insensitive comment. And since you don’t know me, I would agree that my comment was stupid. But in this house, you decide the sport we play, and ‘no means no’. Goes for me too."

As they got in the elevator, Noki asked, And your taste in women?

High on my list is laid back and casual, along with smart, fun, funny and not crazy. The latter is optional. Crazy can go either way.

I see. And if I wanted to tie you up and have my way with you, which side of crazy is that?

Depends. But restraint is third date material. Did you bring your own ropes tonight?

I’m pretty sure you have your own.

We’ll have to compare notes on knot tying. I was a Boy Scout you know.

Doubt it, but anything you say.

You should also know that I’m a perfect gentleman, unless instructed otherwise, of course, I'm generally reliable, and a great conversationalist.

"Have any male friends?"

A few. My friends are mostly women. Just worked out that way. Men are always pulling out their dicks to prove who has the biggest. With women my little appendage always wins.

Noki smiled, watching Adam carefully for signs of trouble.

She said, In the land of the blind, the one-eyed Jack is king.

Excellent. Witty and very smart. I like you. We’re going to be great friends.

When she later saw a framed photo of Adam at the groundbreaking ceremony for his new corporate headquarters, she pretended to recognize him for the first time.

You’re Adam St. James. I didn’t recognize you right away, although your face looked familiar.

I am. And you’re Nocera lee. Financial analyst and recent NYU grad in Finance, I think.

How?

I checked. I’m a tech genius, you know. I can do facial recognition from my cell phone.

Kinda rude.

Yes, so I’ve been told. But one can never be too careful.

They arrived at the top floor; Adam guided Noki into the living room.

Music, champagne, injectable heroin?

Champagne would be nice.

Flutes or plastic cups.

Flutes, please. Plastic ruins the flavor.

Adam was back in a few minutes, having popped the cork, and poured one flute with champagne, the other with ginger ale.

The champagne is for you, the ginger ale for me. I don’t drink.

Trying to get me drunk?

Not yet. Maybe later.

They settled in on the big sofa, Adam laying against a big down pillow at one end, Noki a few feet away.

Now, Nocera Lee, why are you really here tonight?

What? What are you talking about? I’m here because you invited me up. Remember?

More like you invited yourself up, but that might be more curiosity than anything nefarious. I did confirm the things I mentioned earlier but, in the meantime, I discovered a couple more things. Interesting things.

Enlighten me.

First that little pop gun in your purse.

Noki squirmed, now trying to think of a plausible story.

"Personal safety. I have a gun permit and a concealed carry permit. I need it because of the business I’m in. I sometimes carry financial instruments; sometimes lots of cash."

And the stiletto strapped to your inner left thigh.

How?

Tech. I also just found out that although you used to work for the Triads in Hong Kong, you were just sold to the Yakuza in Tokyo. You’re a top assassin, but the new Triad boss wanted you gone for some reason. Apparently, you won’t be returning to Hong Kong anytime soon.

Noki was silent.

"How does that kind of player trade work in the assassin world anyway? Cash plus an assassin to be named later? Like baseball."

I’m an American citizen. I can go anywhere I want.

Not to Hong Kong anymore. No visa in the world will help you with the Triads.

Noki grabbed for her purse to get out her gun, but it was gone.

Sorry, I took it when I went to the kitchen. Wasn’t sure how to get that knife, so for now, it’s all yours.

A huge mistake, Adam. I’m going to have to kill you now. I’m so sorry; you seem like a nice man.

I am a nice man, and you have zero chance of killing me, gun or not.

We’ll see.

Noki pulled apart the slit of her dress and had the stiletto out instantly.

Wow, that was good. But don’t you think having something that sharp next to your naughty bits is a bit ... risky. I mean I like my work too, but not that much. Does it ever ride up?

I'm so sorry about this.

Just a sec. Before we start, why are you in so much pain, if I may ask? I noticed earlier. In a knife fight, you’ll need to have greater dexterity, but you won’t have it, not in your condition.

I’m fine. You die, I leave. That’s all you need to know.

As you wish.

Adam pulled out some bracelets.

These are cuffs for the wrist and ankles. Once I’ve disarmed you, I’m going to have to restrain you. You can tell me what’s up then, or we can go about it my way. I do not intend to harm you, but my skills are far superior to yours. So, please, don’t do this.

Noki lunged and missed, as Adam dodged and swung around to face her. He began circling, calculating his next move, looking for a defensive weakness. Noki came at him again, slashing and trying to kick him in the testicles, getting him bent over so she could slice his neck and a carotid artery. As she did, Adam blocked her kick, then grabbed and twisted her wrist, forcing the knife from her hand. He pulled both hands behind her back as she fought hard to stomp on his foot, wriggle free and use elbows on his torso and ribs. Adam quickly got her in a choke hold, and, within seconds, she stopped struggling and went down, unconscious but alive. Adam cuffed her wrists and feet, then carried her to the couch and set her down, prone, against pillows on one end of the couch.

There was broken furniture, and although the fight lasted only minutes, she was more skilled than he thought. But hand-to-hand was not her thing. She was a surprise-the-vic pop gun and knife girl. It just hadn’t worked out this time with this victim.

Noki awoke, disoriented.

Get me out of these things, Noki shouted. I’ll have you arrested!

Oh, come on now. You’re not going to the police, and if you behave yourself, neither will I. Everything you’ve said since we got in my limo to this very moment has all been recorded. Please, settle down and let’s talk.

Noki was raging, trying to wriggle free from her cuffs, but to no avail.

"You’ll only hurt yourself. Those are titanium, military grade handcuffs. Designed for tough hombres with real major steroid induced muscle strength. Not you, of course, so please just settle down and talk to me. I don’t care who you think hired you or why. I already know who and why. They’ll be dead by morning, but you certainly don’t have to join them."

Noki, red with apoplexy, spat, "Don’t you get it? If you’re not dead by morning, then it will be me instead. You might as well do it right here, right now. Make it quick and fast. The Yakuza will not be so swift or so kind."

Settle down now, he repeated. No one is going to die, not you and not me. I think if your Triad boss sold you to the Yakuza to do this job, he had a reason. I think it has something to do with why you’re in such pain and what your condition is. You’ve been weak lately, haven’t you?

Silence.

I asked nicely for your cooperation. Now, I must insist

Adam pulled out his pocket knife, and released the big blade. He came close to Noki and spun her around so her back was to him.

Make it quick.

What? Cutting the back of your dress? I guess I could but I don’t want to damage it too much. Now sit still while I do this. I’m going to cut along the zipper line, so you can get this lovely frock repaired later if you want.

You’re going to rape me.

No, I’m going to expose your back to me. I need to see it. I won’t touch you; I just need to have a look.

No. Stop! You can’t ...

Too late.

Adam saw something he did not expect. He was looking for evidence of poisoning, skin discoloration, but what he saw was much worse.

I’m so sorry. I’ll get a needle and thread, and sew it up if you want.

Leave me alone. Let me go. I’m already dead.

No, you’re not. I’m going to call someone, someone who can help you.

The FBI?

No. Dr. Serena Tangier and her husband Dr. Robert Tangier.

Why would you do that?

You’ve been poisoned for a long time. You’re just presenting serious symptoms now. You need a doctor.

What about ...

I’ll take care of that when you’re ready. Trust me; I know the Yakuza.

I don’t believe you. You’re lying. You’re going to hurt me.

Hardly. And as far as your medical condition is concerned, blood tests will show I’m right. If I were you, I’d let me help you.

Fuck you.

I’m calling anyway. Sit tight.

Very funny.

Chapter 3

Drs. Serena and Robert Tangier arrived with their two boys, William and Kenneth, well after midnight. They didn't look happy except for the boys who knew their uncle Adam would have something new to play with, maybe even something to take home and show their friends.

Serena said, What the fuck, Adam. It’s after one in the morning. Couldn’t this wait?

No. I think this is life or death, and you need to see my guest upstairs. Bob, you too. Boys, look in that drawer and pull out the controllers. New game; all VR. Gonna blow your mind.

William, called Bill, asked, Any good stuff?

Not with your mom around. We’ll talk later.

No, you won’t. That better be scenes of the Grand Canyon.

Close. Actual aerial dogfights taken in real time.

I’m next, said Bob. Serena shot him deadly eye daggers. I’m just sayin’. I want a turn too. Sounds like fun.

Take it home, said an anxious Adam. But I need you upstairs now.

The three went up the stairs between floors four and five to find Noki on the couch, cuffed and gagged.

Adam, what the fuck have you done!

Settle down, Serena. This is Nocera Lee of the Yakuza, recently sold by the Triads of Hong Kong and hired to kill me. We had our little fight, but I noticed she was in pain, and ready to pass out. Not very assassin-like. I think she’s been poisoned. I looked on her back for signs of what it might be, but then I saw something else. Something much worse.

He turned to Noki.

I’m taking out the gag so you can talk to the doctor and her husband, also a doctor. They are world class experts in burn medicine and all manner of toxicology. Let them see your back and talk to them please. If you don’t, you’ll die anyway.

Adam removed the gag.

Serena asked, Are the cuffs really necessary?

I’m gonna have to say yes to that. Did I mention she just tried to kill me? She’s lethal.

Bob asked, More or less than you?

Serena said, What does that mean?

Nothing dear, said Bob. Let’s have a look.

The good doctors moved Noki into position and undid her dress along the zipper line.

Adam, do you have a 10x?

Yes. I’ll get it.

Serena and Bob spent a half hour or so examining Noki, asking a few questions.

Noki asked, "What was your diagnosis, Dr. St. James."

He looked at Noki, Computers, not medicine. Still, respect is always appreciated. I’m an incredible chef too.

To Serena he said, Massive childhood abuse using some form of chemical agent, then beaten or struck repeatedly. Explains the scar pattern and probably what’s wrong with her. I think someone was trying to kill her slowly and make it look like natural causes.

Serena said, There’s evidence of physical burning too, probably cigarettes or something similar. The damage, I’m guessing, is all over her body. Has she been treated?

Adam turned to Noki, Well, have you? This is no joke. Tell the truth.

Chinese herbal medicine. Salves for the scarring and herbs for the pain. But it’s getting worse. The medicines aren’t working anymore.

They never did. Whoever did this to you used compounds containing mercury. It embedded in your scarification as you healed, but then the mercury started leaking from your scars into your bloodstream. Once mercury gets in the body, it’s hard to get it out. There might have been some asbestos in your wounds too. That might be a result of where you lived. In any event, if you don’t get help, you’re going to die.

Why should I believe you? You don’t know me. And I just tried to kill your friend. Why would you want to help me? Who am I to you?

You’re a patient and I’m a doctor. If there’s a problem between you and Adam, take it up with him. For now, you need help, and Bob and I may be able to give you the treatment you will need. It’s experimental, but it’s been effective.

What is it?

Think of it as a cleanse for mercury and asbestos. But we need to fix your surface body with immediate surgery. The scarification contains mercury; you need surgery to remove it. It will take time and it will be expensive.

Time like weeks?

No, more like months, maybe even years.

"How expensive is expensive?"

A lot. Maybe a million before we’re all done. I’m sorry. But those are the facts. I’m going to write down the names of three specialists. I'll call them in the morning and you need to go see them. They’ll run tests right away and consult with me. Then we’ll start your treatment.

I can’t possibly pay for any of this. And I have other much more pressing problems.

Serena looked down at Noki.

Listen to me dear. Moneybags here will pay for your treatment, and I’m pretty sure he can fix your other problems too. At least if the rumors are true.

Adam chuckled, You mean the ones about my sexual stamina?

Bob smiled, Serena said, Yeah; those.

Then she said, We’re going home. Bob, pick up the kids and the toys, and meet me downstairs.

Bob left.

Adam, fix her fucking business problems then get her to her appointments tomorrow. No fucking around.

You know why I love you Serena?

I’m a good friend and a great doc?

No, you curse way better than Bob, and he was a Marine.

Ain’t that the shits.

True dat.

When they were alone, Adam said, It’s just us, all BS aside. What do you want to do?

Nothing. There’s nothing to do. I can never pay for any of this and the Yakuza will kill me as soon as they find me anyway. I have nowhere to go.

Let’s go over to your place and collect a few things. Then we’ll fix the other things one at a time. I’ll call Sandford.

Who?

My driver. Just don’t call him Sandford. Call him Miles. He’s sensitive about his first name. Ex- SAS, so you wouldn’t think so, but he is."

Where are we going after that?

Back here. I’ll make up the second bedroom. But you must promise not to try to kill me. If you want to run, then run. If you want me to call you a cab right now, I will. But you can’t run far enough or fast enough to get away from these problems. Stay here with me and I’ll fix what I can and help with the rest.

Why? I tried to kill you tonight?

Ah, baloney. You couldn’t kill me if you had two guns and tried to shoot me while I was asleep. I was on to you right away. Besides, I like you. You’re not boring and it gets quiet around here. You’re a challenge. And exciting! My new girlfriend is an assassin.

You’re wrong about what you think you know about me. I’m not very nice most of the time, and I kill people for a living.

See. We’re off to a good start. I’m an asshole most of the time, can’t keep a girlfriend, and I kill people too. Like the guys who hired the Yakuza to kill me. I’ll need to have a word with the Yakuza in the morning.

Adam paused, You know, now that I think of it, if I call now I can still catch them. Can I uncuff you, or not?

You trust me?

Hell no. But here’s where we start. You stand right here while I call an old friend in Tokyo.

Adam called his contact, explained to him how the Triads sold them damaged merchandise and made fools of them. And he was annoyed that the Yakuza took out a contract on him.

Adam said, "She’s dead no matter what you do, and it would have seemed like it was just a medical condition or she died fulfilling her contract. I’ll send you the doctor’s reports to confirm but let me offer you a deal. If I’m lying, you can call off the deal and we all go back to the status quo ante."

I’m listening.

The Yakuza man on the other end was an old friend of Adam’s from college and, though junior in the Yakuza ranks, he was the son of one of the top men in the crime syndicate’s Tokyo organization. If he committed to fix something for Adam, things would be fixed.

I’ll buy her contract from you. Twice the price you paid. Good for you, good for her. That way, no war with the Triads and no shame for whoever made the deal. And, to be clear between old friends, you got taken.

What’s your interest in her? Why the sudden generosity over a dead woman?

Thought I’d turn her out for a while to see if I can make back my investment. She’s pretty hot, you know.

No way, Adam.

She’s a financial analyst; she helps me with money management. She balances my checkbook.

No.

I like her. I want her around. I’ll get her treatment and she may yet still live. You know what an asshole I am. And you’ve seen her picture, I'm sure. My rep soars and I get laid a lot just having her around. She’s worth a lot to me.

The Yakuza man said, I think you have no idea why you’re helping her. I think you’re a ‘do gooder’ at heart and have billions to spend. You make more money in a day than I will this entire year. I think you want to save someone, some poor soul, and she’s the one you’ve chosen.

Adam said, tonelessly, in his best negotiation voice, A million to you, cash, and one hundred cases of that Scotch you like.

No cops.

Promise. None now, none ever. Besides, the FBI never figured out what we did. Let’s face it, we’re stuck with each other.

Am I right?

You are. I have a lot to atone for; she does too. Just not if we’re dead.

What about my clients?

They’re missing. A tragic accident is about to happen. Keep their money. I’ll clean up the rest. Cash, check or money order?

I’ll send you wire instructions for my bank in the Caymans.

Thanks Johnny. You’re the man.

It’s Mr. Yoshimura now. No more western ways.

Yoshi it is.

Who was that?

An old friend.

You bought my contract?

I did. You work for me now. Yoshi gets an extra million in cash and a lot of Scotch just to let you go.

You’re not going to ...

"Turn you out? No. I want to turn you around. Like he said, I need to do this for ... me. I’ve done some bad things and now I need to do some offsetting good things. I'm Catholic; I need the moral offset. I think that you wandering into my life right now is what is supposed to be. For me and for you. But you need to believe that too. This part was easy; now the hard stuff begins. Serena said this treatment will be long and painful. But she thinks you’ll make it. But you can’t give up. You have to try, and try harder than you ever have before."

And what do you get out of all of this?

Penitence and forgiveness.

You don’t strike me as a man who needs either.

You don’t know me. You don’t know what I’ve done. I want to be a better man. I think you can help.

I don’t ...

Sleep with men?

Not normally. No.

Not part of the deal. You do treatment and get better; I’ll take care of my shitty love life. I expect you to pimp for me. Tomorrow you have appointments, then I need you to meet Kalindra.

Who’s that?

My ‘work wife’. She handles all business matters, contracts, scheduling. You can help around the office too. Filing, delivering pink slips, collecting past due invoices, that kind of thing. You are a hired killer, aren’t you?

Not funny.

Noki looked scared. She said she was afraid the Yakuza in New York City would kill her anyway.

You’re going to be fine, and so am I. We can help each other. Tomorrow we'll go shopping. Everything new. Symbolic of a new life. Out with the old, in with the new. Besides, I’m not sure how safe it is for you to go back to your place right now. Let’s stay here. I’ll make up your room.

Where?

Right next to mine. You can lock your door.

I was going to say the same to you.

Chapter 4

A year ago.

Two years went by fast, and Noki was making progress on all fronts, both mentally and physically. She had endured many painful operations, experienced the slow healing of many parts of her body, been weakened by medications and physical therapy, and had numerous skin grafts. Much of the work done was experimental; cases like Noki’s were rare and few public health dollars came even close to relevant research, much less treatment, that was demanded. Much of what was available came from military sources who were sometimes reluctant to share research with the private sector. Keeping horrifying battlefield injuries away from the public eye seemed to be the priority; the politics of an unpopular set of wars.

Dr. Tangier asked Noki and Adam to visit her office together for a consultation. Adam had been to every doctor’s appointment, surgery and specialist with Noki and made sure she stuck to her diet and took her medications. He could be a tyrant but Noki didn’t mind. She had grown from disbelief and mistrust, to cautious optimism, to believing that Adam could do anything. They were now friends, more than friends, but the line was never crossed. Not then, anyway.

Adam loved Noki in his own quirky way; his attraction to her was real and deep. But Noki had warned Adam that she was only attracted to women, so he thought that it was best to go through her recovery without discussing future plans. No pressure. Adam had settled into an amazing daily routine with Noki; he didn't want it to end. Whatever would happen would happen after she was better. He wondered whether her feelings for him were genuine, or just disguised gratitude spiced with tinges of guilt. Noki was quiet, and not always as open as Adam hoped she might be.

Noki, for her part, was never quite sure of her emotional status with Adam. It wasn’t that he ever refused to discuss his feelings for her; it was just that both Noki and Adam seemed unwilling or unable to bring it up for serious discussion. Each had begun to fear the loss of the other, so things were left unsaid. Adam said all the superficially correct things, gave appreciative hugs and kisses, but what he felt deep inside for her was still a secret he kept. He said he loved her every day, but he didn't show much physical passion even when he could; both refused to step over the boundary they each had created in the beginning.

Noki was also confused about her own feelings; was she just grateful or was there more to this strange man? She felt attraction for Adam, physical attraction, but was it honest? She felt so much more intense erotic attraction for the women she met than for men; the men she found attractive always fit the same pattern. They reminded her of Adam. She noticed men too, but, still, her contradictory feelings for Adam were terribly confusing.

Noki knew her physical treatment was nearing its end. What then? What should have been the most joyful of all events in her entire life was quickly turning into panic. She decided she needed to talk to someone; that someone was Serena Tangier. Hence an emergency consultation between the three was hastily arranged over lunch. For Serena, this was important for the mental health of her patient and her male friend. The pair needed a little prodding to get what troubled them out in the open. And Dr. Tangier would make them talk. She was convinced there was no problem between them, only that they had agreed in the beginning to not cross a line. Discussing it before they were ready could make things worse, at least that was the working theory. But now things had changed; clearly Noki wanted some line crossing.

Adam and Noki sat next to each other as they faced Serena across her desk.

I need to speak to you both about some things I’ve had on my mind as we approach the end of Noki’s initial treatment, at least the physical part. And I need you both to be honest with me about some matters that may be difficult for each of you to discuss. I know you both, and these are private matters; personal matters. I don’t think either of you have discussed them out of fear for what might be said by the other. We need to do so now.

Adam asked, You said ‘initial treatment’? Is there more treatment that I don’t know about?

"Yes and no. Not much more physical therapy; she’s recovered marvelously from all her surgeries and treatments and she’s healing well with her prescription medicines and diet regimen. I’m thinking now more about the future and her emotional recovery. Treating her physical condition did not erase how these conditions arose. Noki has lived in