Hidden: "When the Past Is Buried but Not Forgotten..."

By Monique Gliozzi

When Victoria Grace, a charming but mysterious woman, meets Greek real estate tycoon Aleco Kavos, to all it appears to be a perfect match. However, underneath the calm façade lies a dormant past marked by deception, destruction, and murder.

Special Agent Isabella Ashford of the FBI is enjoying a family vacation on the beautiful Greek Isles when an unexpected turn of events brings forth a fated encounter. The collision of two worlds on opposing sides of the law leads to a dangerous tango to capture an unusual predator. Driven by differing motivations, one woman wants justice while the other seeks anonymity. Who will be left standing?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tellwell Talent
• Release date: Aug 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9780228897033

Monique Gliozzi

Born in Dublin, Dr Monique Gliozzi, a graduate from the University of Western Australia medical school, has a keen interest in forensic sciences and psychiatry. She works as a psychiatrist in Perth, with ties to the UWA School of Psychiatry, where she has had a role as a Senior Clinical lecturer. Her love for teaching has granted her a nomination for an Excellence in Teaching Award in 2016.Monique also holds an interest in aviation. She trained at the Royal Aero Club of Western Australia, where she obtained a commercial pilot licence. Following this, Monique completed her instructor rating and is now working on a casual basis as a senior flight instructor.Monique has only recently rekindled her passion for writing starting with the fictional thriller, Foresight.

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Hidden

When the Past Is Buried but Not Forgotten…

Monique Gliozzi

Hidden

Copyright © 2023 by Monique Gliozzi

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Tellwell Talent

www.tellwell.ca

ISBN

978-0-2288-9702-6 (Paperback)

978-0-2288-9703-3 (eBook)

Other titles by Monique Gliozzi

Foresight

Hunted

Vestige

Diversity: A collection of diverse short stories

Facets of the Past

Once is Never Enough

Disclaimer

This novel’s story is fictitious. Certain long-standing institutions, public offices and agencies are mentioned, but the characters involved are entirely imaginary. Any resemblance to actual persons living or deceased is entirely coincidental.

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Six

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty-One

Chapter Forty-Two

Chapter Forty-Three

Chapter Forty-Four

Chapter Forty-Five

Chapter Forty-Six

Chapter Forty-Seven

Chapter Forty-Eight

Chapter Forty-Nine

Chapter Fifty

Chapter Fifty-One

Chapter Fifty-Two

Chapter Fifty-Three

Chapter Fifty-Four

Chapter Fifty-Five

Chapter Fifty-Six

Epilogue

Acknowledgments

I would like to express my gratitude to the following people who have helped me create and publish my first and subsequent novels, including this latest: Hidden: When the past is buried but not forgotten.

Alexandra Davies, my editor who taught me the art of simplicity for the creation of suspense.

Tim Lindsay, CEO & founder of Tellwell Publishing and his team who have worked tirelessly on all my projects.

Ruth Callaghan, a dear family friend and journalist who pointed me in the right direction during my journey as an author.

Media Marketing: Eric, Lori, Rex and Ched—a creative dream team!

My parents and goddaughter Dalia, for making this latest project a real adventure.

Finally, to all the avid readers of fiction who continue to inspire today’s authors.

Thank you!

Quote

A dark heart cannot illuminate the soul.

—Monique Gliozzi

Dedication

To my family, friends, enthusiastic fans, and collaborators

With love

PROLOGUE

Santorini. A rugged miracle, morphed by a volcanic eruption long ago, now graces the Aegean Sea. Its characteristic white-washed cubiform homes cling to cliffs above an underground crater, creating a backdrop marveled by travelers from all corners of the globe. If you asked someone who had visited this island to describe what makes it so special, they would reminisce about the tranquility of magnificent sunsets, the orange glow almost surreally enhancing the intensity of the cobalt blue dome-styled rooftops, or about a sea distinguished by sapphire-tinged waters of sparkling clarity, gently lapping over mineral-rich, black sand beaches. For those who love to indulge privately, luxury waterfront villas and peaceful mini resorts are not lacking.

Victoria Grace, now married to Aleco Kavos, a Greek real estate tycoon, was accustomed to a life of privilege. In spite of her personal trials, she had always found a way to move forward, allowing nothing and nobody to hold her back. In the world of tarot, she would be depicted as the Queen of Wands—a real go-getter with mounting wealth.

On this beautiful early summer night, she found herself awake, trembling and perspiring profusely, having been thrust from restless sleep back to a state of semi-wakefulness and hypervigilance. Once again, the nightmare had been detailed and vivid. Victoria sat on the edge of the bed for several moments, allowing herself to fully recover from such an incubus. She glanced at her husband before slowly making her way onto the veranda. The cool, slightly damp sea breeze washed over her, caressing her skin, aiding the evaporation of sweat. The sensation was soothing, reminding Victoria of her mother prior to her untimely death. The image of her lifeless body would forever be embedded in her conscious and subconscious mind.

CHAPTER ONE

Los Angeles, California 2018

Mommy! Max keeps taking my crayons! I want to get my picture finished before Daddy gets home, Maria complained, running into the kitchen of the modest bungalow, where her mother sat transfixed by the devastation being reported on the CNN news channel. Special Agent Isabella Ashford turned toward the eight-year-old, pulling her into a soothing embrace, then returned her attention to the screen. She knew all too well what it felt like to be trapped under rubble. The 1985 mega earthquake in Mexico City had left her and twin brother Marco orphaned. They’d been fortunate to be saved by missionaries of the Red Cross and subsequently adopted by a Californian couple. The Ashfords had been good guardians to the ten-year-old siblings, providing protection and a solid foundation for their future. Today, sadly, the once orderly capital of Japan was in chaos. Sitting in the safety of her home, Isabella’s heart ached for the victims.

Mommy, why are those people screaming and why are the buildings broken? Maria enquired, showing a mixture of concern and curiosity.

Sweetie, there’s been a bad accident. An earthquake. It’s when the earth starts shaking really badly and things start to fall. Remember when your brother had building blocks piled up and Daddy accidentally bumped the table, and they all came tumbling down? The girl nodded, wide eyed. Well, it’s kind of like that, except there’s nobody bumping the earth.

A wave of nostalgia for her hometown and loving parents washed over her. Maria had been named after her grandmother and was already showing the same compassionate characteristics.

Now, about your brother, he’s still little and needs time to learn about sharing, ok? she said, switching off the small wall-mounted flatscreen and kissing Maria on her forehead.

Her iPhone vibrated on the marble counter. Isabella recognized the number and face staring up at her. Hi honey, she answered, have you seen the news?

Yeah. What a shame, Nick, her husband of almost twelve years answered. So, what do you want to do about this vacation? Japan is out of the question. His tone resonated with disappointment. Since the birth of their son Maximus almost three years earlier, his schedule as head of the Special Victims Unit in the Department of Justice had been grueling. A well-deserved holiday was now overdue. Isabella fired up her laptop as he spoke.

Well, hon, why don’t we go somewhere in the Mediterranean? she suggested. Claudia visited Greece last year and was thrilled by her experience. FBI Agent Claudia Conti had been a loyal colleague with whom she’d worked several complex cases. Over time, the women had developed a trusted friendship spanning more than a decade.

Out of the corner of her eye, Isabella spotted Max entering the kitchen. Grinning from ear to ear, the little boy proudly showed off a set of green-colored baby teeth. Maria looked at him in horror, then at her mother who mouthed, I’ll be done in a minute. The girl positioned herself in the doorway, blocking any opportunity for her brother to exit and evade a deserved reprimand. Hands on hips, she frowned at him, fuming as only a girl her age knows how.

Ok, darling, Isabella spoke into the phone. I’ll take a look at the options, and we can discuss this when you get home tonight. Love you. She terminated the call and turned to her son.

What have we here? she asked the mischievous toddler.

All gone! he exclaimed, gleefully waving his green-stained palms at his mother and sister.

Mom! Maria began aghast as she watched Max being scooped up and taken into the bathroom. She followed, hoping to witness a good telling-off.

Maria, the crayons aren’t going to harm him because they’re poison free, she assured. Now, Max, you’ve been a naughty boy. Don’t do this again. It’s not nice to take your sister’s things without asking, she scolded, hiding her amusement. Max grinned and nodded, allowing his mother to wipe the sticky residue from his mouth and fingers with a washcloth.

I have some great news, Isabella announced, attempting to divert the children’s attention.

What? her daughter asked, her expression softening.

What? What? Max repeated as he pulled away from his mother.

Well, she began, instead of Japan, we’re going to a special place called Greece. Isabella watched the youngsters process the information. There are beaches, sunshine and lots of fun things to do.

Yay! Maria exclaimed, hugging their mother’s waist. Max copied his big sister.

Isabella held them close, feeling blessed at having a small but loving family. Her thoughts drifted back to the travesty in Tokyo, the loss of life and the emotional devastation for its survivors. Ironically, getting through the trauma all those years ago had not only left her resilient, but along with sustained injuries, a special gift only few knew about.

CHAPTER TWO

The early morning walk along her favorite stretch of beach surrounding Oia helped calm Victoria after a restless night. The air was still. The sun had made its presence known by warming her bare shoulders. Crystal clear waters gently lapped the shore, softening the sand so that it created a massaging effect with each step. Stopping and turning to face the horizon, she marveled at the vastness of the glistening body of water and proximity of neighboring countries. Before her mind could wander beyond these geographical boundaries, she recognized a small fishing boat sailing in her direction. Miko, its owner, supplied her resort daily with fresh produce.

"Kalimera! The native called out with a broad wave. I have some lovely lobsters for you," he shouted, smiling proudly.

Wonderful! Thank you. Costa will be happy. We’ll see you later, Victoria replied cheerfully. Miko continued his journey past her, heading for the docking bay, all the while barking instructions at his teenage son in preparation for landing and securing the white and blue vessel.

Costa had been the head chef for several years preceding her marriage to Aleco. Most of the time he was of jovial disposition, patient with his sous chef and apprentices, a role model for professional conduct even in the most dramatic of situations. Not long after she had arrived two years earlier, a careless mistake by one of the kitchenhands had almost resulted in catastrophic consequences for his entire kitchen. Hot oil from a dirty pan had been left dripping onto a naked grill flame, instead of being washed immediately. The result was a mini bonfire, aggravated by the poor boy attempting to extinguish it with a greasy tea towel. Costa convinced an irate Aleco to give the youth another chance to work under closer supervision. Reluctantly, the real estate mogul agreed, intent on impressing his new bride.

Taking note of the time and wanting to see her husband before he left for a three-day business trip to Belgium, Victoria hastened toward their luxury resort, where each villa had a small infinity pool and private access to the beach. She entered the spacious lobby, where large, wooden, slowly rotating ceiling fans, set to be more of a gimmick, complimented the cool atmosphere generated by a powerful air conditioner. Approaching the main desk, she spotted a young couple being briefed on the variety of amenities the resort offered. The shining wedding bands were a dead giveaway of their newly found marital status.

Oh honey, I’d love to book in for the day spa, the young attractive bride professed in English with a slight foreign intonation.

Of course. We can accommodate both of you at the same time. Here are some of the most popular packages, the clerk responded enthusiastically while maintaining a professional decorum as he opened the brochure.

Welcome to the Merakalis Resort, Victoria greeted approaching them. Husband and wife turned simultaneously to face a smiling Victoria. I’m Victoria. My husband and I own this paradise and take great pride in providing our guests with an unforgettable experience.

Nice to meet you, the young man in his thirties replied. I’m Hank Gild, and this is my wife, Helena. Victoria sensed that the young bride was enthralled with being in a foreign country, eager to explore more than just the luxurious playground for the privileged.

I detect a little accent. Where are you from? she enquired, alternating her gaze between the two.

Bavaria. Munich, to be precise, Hank answered, intrigued by a vague familiarity he sensed about their host.

Well, we’re a little bit out of Munich itself. A place called Starnberg, Helena chimed in, glancing approvingly at her groom.

Well, that sounds wonderful. I look forward to learning more about it. Perhaps at one of our soirees. Have a lovely stay, Victoria answered, keen to disentangle herself from a longer conversation.

Thank you. Bye. Hank waved, watching her sashay across the lobby and exit from view behind a classic Greek-styled marble column.

May I ask if you’re interested in a tour of Santorini Island later this week? There are many nice places to visit, the clerk interrupted.

Sure, Hank replied, returning his attention to the patient clerk. We’d love that. Helena smiled as the two men entered a detailed discussion of a possible itinerary for the excursion. Unbeknown to his wife, Hank was harboring a nagging feeling that would not let up. For now, he would have to try to ignore it.

Aleco Kavos had the physique of a rugby player and an iron temperament to match. Standing in front of a full-length mirror with just a towel wrapped around his waist, he ran his hand down his newly waxed toned chest, then, flexing both arms, admired the muscle bulk of each bicep. Satisfied, he passed both hands over his head, allowing his fingers to travel through thick locks of still damp dark blond hair. Turning his head from side to side, Aleco inspected his face, still proud of the chiseled chin and almost perfect features complimented by dark blue eyes. Something in the reflection behind him caught his attention. His wife.

Good morning, darling, she said seductively, wrapping her arms around his strong neck as he turned toward her. Looking straight into her brown eyes and brushing a strand of light brown hair away from her cheek, he kissed her gently on the lips.

Seeing his wife dressed in a sportswear style tank top, running shorts and Nike sneakers all accentuating her athletic build, he liked what he saw. His mind briefly returned to the day they had met jogging on the beach in Fira. Victoria’s hair had been shorter then, but she still caught his eye as they passed one another. Suddenly both stopped mid-jog and turned to face each other. The instant attraction was mutual, despite a ten-year gap in age. Aleco had never been able to commit to a woman, but now in his early forties he believed in love at first sight. Orphaned from a young age and from humble beginnings, he had worked hard to put himself through a reputable business school in Athens, determined one day to own luxurious property and have his own real estate company. Tenacity had paid off. In this part of the world, Aleco was considered the king in this field.

I’m afraid I must get ready. We can play when I return, he promised, freeing himself and pulling out a pair of fresh briefs from his favorite mahogany dresser. Aleco changed quickly into a cream-colored linen suit, leaving the top two buttons of the white cotton shirt undone. The Louis Vuitton travel bag and briefcase had already been packed and locked.

What time will you be back on Wednesday night? she asked, handing him the briefcase.

Late. Don’t wait up.

Are you meeting with Mr. Jonah or his associate this time? she queried, wondering how this business deal would take shape.

Only with Mr Jonah, he replied. Why? What does it matter?

Too many cooks spoil the broth sometimes, she replied casually as they walked down the flight of stairs of their two-storied villa.

Don’t worry about a thing. Leave the business side to me. You have enough to focus on with the wine tasting evening which, if I’m not mistaken is fast approaching. Victoria picked up on a slight irritation in his tone. The limousine pulled up just as she opened the front door.

Aleco planted a hasty kiss on his wife’s forehead, then, after boarding the vehicle, was driven into the distance. A pang of insecurity washed over her; a feeling etched into her soul from long ago.

CHAPTER THREE

Helena and Hank took their positions opposing each other behind the large net. They had been encouraged by fellow vacationers to partake in a beach volleyball competition. Much to Hank’s surprise, after a rough start, both their teams had reached the semi-finals. It was late afternoon, yet the sun still had a sting in its rays, heating the sand under their bare feet. Hank winked at his bride.

Ok, people! the umpire perched on a metal highchair shouted. Red team to serve. This is it—match point.

Helena was dreading having to return the ball or even spike it, maneuvers that eluded her. So far, each side had won two sets, leaving the fifth set to be the decider. Her team was in the lead by one point to no credit of her own. Suddenly, the white ball served by one of her teammates flew past her across the net to the opponents’ side. A young lady Helena’s age interlocking her forearms passed it to Hank, who in turn set it up for an attack by another European player. The youth, keen to show his skill in spiking, jumped to meet the airborne ball at its peak, striking it with all his might with an open palm. The ball traveled back across the net with such speed and height that