Vengence by B Stull and Kajakat Montgomery Bodine sat in his prison cell counting the days to his release. He was serving a term for arson and setting explosive devises. He was a model prisoner, not giving anyone problems and only defending himself when he had to. He planned to do his time and get out so he could exact his revenge Convicted for his crime, he decided to target his anger toward the person whose testimony incriminated him of the crime. That person was John Gage. Johnny remained with Bodine while the others gathered equipment to extricate the alleged bomber. During their brief time the two men spent alone deep in the bowels of the building, Bodine confessed there was another explosive device and the detonation time was drawing near. After Johnny relayed Bodine's message to Captain Stanley, the firefighters increased their efforts to rescue Bodine before the bomb exploded. In the end, Johnny narrowly escaped with his life before the blast rocked the building, blowing the insides to smithereens. Johnny's testimony was all that was needed to convict Bodine and send him to prison. Bodine's confession that Johnny relayed was used against him during his trial. The prosecutor didn't need to use Chet Kelly or Roy DeSoto as he had all he needed from John Gage. *** While Johnny recuperated from his second hip replacement surgery, the construction to the Gages' home was completed. With the help of all of their friends, Jenny moved what sparse household goods she had back into their home. JoAnne and Jenny went shopping for all the other furniture and clothing goods they immediately needed, once the insurance check was deposited. When Jenny moved in with Johnny, she didn't have to really buy anything. John was a bachelor for such a long time that he acquired most everything he needed. Jenny didn't have the opportunity to set the house up, as it was already stocked. Now, she had the pleasure of spending the insurance money and buying a few essentials, such as beds, dressers, and other furniture for the living room. The other items would wait until Johnny was able to shop with her. Of course she set Kaitlin's room back up in the Winnie the Pooh style she had. JoAnne, Roy and Jenny went to as many stores they could in order to find all the Pooh stuff that Kaitlin held so dear. Roy was able to find almost all of the books that Johnny and Jenny collected from the supermarket, thanks to a few well-placed ads on a few information boards. It was Roy's way to make up for the bitterness his fight with Johnny caused. Like Johnny said, the Dennis could be fixed and it was, soon after the fight. Jenny found items she liked and would bring pictures of them to the rehab center to show Johnny. Since Johnny's damaged hip needed to be watched, he had to stay in the rehab center. How he hated it. He thought staying at Hotel Rampart was bad, until he met the staff at the rehab center. Not only did they have him working to get back in shape; he had no privacy, which was something he truly missed. The rehab center lacked most of the comforts of a home too, which also annoyed him. And, he couldn't spend any time alone with his wife. Johnny saw how much fun Jenny was having shopping for stuff, so he let her pick most of the items. The one thing that Johnny wouldn't relent on was the sofa. He wanted an oversize, overstuffed couch, similar to what they had. It was the one indulgence he insisted on having. Over time, the furniture arrived and Jenny started to set up the house. She bought new towels, pots & pans, small appliances, clothing for Kaitlin, Johnny and herself. She immersed herself into this wholeheartedly and really enjoyed it. This was such a change from the anguish she and Johnny went through. First his surgery, then the fire and finally the nail gun accident. Between working part-time, caring for Kaitlin, visiting Johnny and setting up the house, Jenny was totally absorbed as she set up the house in anticipation of her husband's return. Johnny arrived home Friday afternoon. Roy and JoAnne picked him up from the rehab center and brought him to his rebuilt home. Although Jenny was bringing pictures of the house, it couldn't compare to seeing it for the first time with his own eyes. Jenny stayed at home with Kaitlin awaiting her husband's return. "Momma! Poppie's car is here!" Kaitlin cried with delight. She ran to the door and opened it. Johnny got out of the car slowly. He took the walker out, but decided against using it. He stood in front of his home and took it all in. The last time he was out here was when the accident occurred. He was beginning to feel the house was out to get him, first the fire and then the nail gun incident. He chuckled and shook his head. "What's so funny?" Roy asked. "Oh nuthin'. Just silly thoughts." He looked at JoAnne then Roy and smiled. "Let's go in." With Roy's assistance, Johnny slowly made it into his home. He was beginning to think that he would never see his home again. He walked into the living room and saw Jennifer standing there, beaming. "Welcome home, Johnny." Jennifer said walking over to her husband and giving him a kiss. "Daddy, don't forget me!" Kaitlin reminded him as she pulled on his pants. "Kaitlin, I can never, ever forget you. Come with me to the couch so I can give you a kiss." Johnny slowly walked to the couch and sat down. Since he spent so much time in the rehab facility, he didn't have to use his walker for short distances. He brought it home, but for now, he didn't need to or want to use it. "How is my Kitty Kate? Did you miss me?" Johnny asked as he sat down and gathered his daughter onto his lap. "Daddy, Poppie and Gramma bought me all new Pooh books. Poppie will read them all to me tonight!" "I think Poppie is up to that." He placed a kiss on his daughter's head. "Thanks for taking Kaitlin this weekend, Roy, JoAnne." Johnny looked at them while hugging his daughter. JoAnne sat down next to Kaitlin and put her hand on Kaitlin's head. Kaitlin turned around and smiled at her grandmother. "It's our pleasure. Think of it as practice for when you go on your honeymoon. And it will give Roy a chance to remember that kids need to be kids." JoAnne looked at Roy and he blushed. "You must be tired, Johnny. Why don't we take Kaitie Roo now, so you can, eh, rest." Roy teased, waggling his eyebrows and making a suggestive face. "Roy!" Johnny said in mock annoyance. Both women giggled. "I've packed her bag, Mom," Jenny said handing the oversized tote bag to her mother. "I think you over packed it." JoAnne replied, testing the weight of the bag. "Well, you can never be over prepared." Jenny grinned at her mother. "How well I know," Joanne agreed. Jenny turned to her daughter. "Kaitlin, give your father a kiss good-bye." "Bye bye Smokey!" Kaitlin kissed her father's cheek and hugged him around his neck. Johnny sighed as his daughter embraced him. He couldn't remember the last time he was so happy. Johnny hugged his daughter and kissed her again. "Remember to listen to your Poppie and Gramma. Don't give them a hard time and be a good girl." "Okay Daddy!" JoAnne handed Roy the weekend bag and reached down, scooping up her granddaughter in her arms. "If you need anything, call us." Jennifer told her mom. "I will not!" JoAnne said emphatically. "If you remember, I've had some experience with children." She smiled at Roy. "Come on Roy, let's let them settle in." Roy waved goodbye and he, JoAnne and Kaitlin left the Gages' home. Johnny leaned back onto the couch, lifting his legs onto it. Jennifer joined him, snuggling in next to him. "Now you know why, I wanted a couch this big," he said purring into Jenny's ear as he put his arms around his wife. "I never thought I'd have you to myself again." He said nuzzling her hair. "You smell so good." Jenny looked at him and kissed him. "I'm so glad you are home, ole man. I really missed you." She cooed fingering the buttons on his shirt Johnny began to stroke her hair then he started to unbutton her blouse while he stared into her eyes. "Did Carlson give you the okay?" Breathlessly Johnny answered, "The warrior is allowed to return to limited active duty." Jenny chuckled and leaned back some giving Johnny access to her outfit as Johnny continued to undress her. Slipping the silk blouse off her shoulders, he ran his hand across her soft flesh. "It's been too long, Angel," he mumbled. Jenny trembled with anticipation. "Well why don't I take you and the little warrior upstairs." Splaying his hand on his chest Johnny widened his eyes and grinned, "little warrior! Little warrior! The warrior may have had a near miss, but he isn't little." Johnny then brushed his lips against Jenny's. She responded in kind by running her hands through his hair. "Do you want to test the Jacuzzi, ole man? I can get a bottle of wine out too." Jenny said as she began to unbutton Johnny's shirt. After his shirt was unbuttoned, she pulled it out from his pants. She ran her hand over his bare skin. His eyes closed, as he enjoyed the sensations flooding his body. "Umm, no. I think I want to test out some other equipment first," Johnny whispered, losing the battle to keep his concentration. With the material of Johnny's shirt open, Jenny leaned in and began to place feather light kisses on his chest. Johnny moaned savoring Jenny's touch, a touch he missed. After tantalizing some of her husband's erogenous zones, Jenny pulled back. "Let's go upstairs and try out our new bed," Jenny said softly with a smile on her face. Standing up, she reached out with her hand and pulled Johnny up with her. Standing facing each other, Johnny ran his fingers over Jenny's high cheekbone. He whispered, "I love you Angel." Wrapping his arms around Jenny, he hugged her securely. He whispered into her ear, "it's been too long, Angel. I really missed you." With her arms wrapped around her husband, Jenny pinched Johnny's rear end. "I know. I missed you too. Come on. Let's go up." Holding hands, the couple slowly walked upstairs to their sparse bedroom. *** Johnny and Jenny spent the weekend alone. They didn't venture from the house, as Johnny needed to rest. Although they spent many hours in bed, resting was only one of their activities there. Johnny also walked around; familiarizing himself with his rebuilt home. He looked at the construction to make sure it was up to his standards. He double-checked the wiring, inspected the furnace and water heater; all things he would have done if he were around to supervise. Jenny was sitting in their living room looking at travel brochures, when Johnny walked in. "Have you decided where you want to go for two weeks, Angel?" "I'd like to go to Hawaii or the Caribbean, but I don't think you're up to that. How about you, where do you want to go?" "Same places, but I wonder if I'd have problems there. We could do a cruise." "Yuch." "Yuch? Why?" "Too much food. I love the ocean, but to swim in it, not float on it." "Okay. I figure that would be easier for us." "I know Johnny, but I don't want to waste our money, our honeymoon, on that. There are those all-inclusive places in the Caribbean. But I wonder if the flying would pose a problem to your hip?" "Dunno. We can try. Maybe the Caribbean isn't such a bad idea. I'll talk to Carlson when I see him next week and see what he says." Johnny sat down. Changing the subject he asked, "did you call JoAnne?" "For what?" "Whaddya mean for what? To see how Kaitlin's doing." "No." "Why not?" "Because my mother knows what she's doing." Raising his voice, "I can't believe you." Johnny reached for the phone. Jenny laughed and stopped Johnny from getting the phone. "Gotcha ole man. Of course I called them. I spoke with my Dad and he said everything is going okay. Kaitlin slept through the night. No nightmares. I guess she sensed everything is back to normal. Dad isn't working Monday and wanted to know if he could keep her an extra day." Jenny looked up at Johnny. On the one hand she knew Johnny wouldn't deny Roy the pleasure, but on the other hand, she knew he missed and needed to have his daughter. "What did you tell him?" "I made a deal with him, that he can keep her for breakfast, but she needs to be home for lunch. You know I'll be doing twelve hours on Monday, so you'll have her all to yourself. I can ask Dad to bring her to daycare, if you think she'll be too much." Johnny smiled, "no, I want her home. I need my Kaitlin." Johnny smiled and continued, "that works out fine for me. An' knowing your father, he'll hang around here with me too." *** The next few weeks settled into a routine. Jennifer worked three twelve-hour shifts per week. Johnny was still on disability and would remain on it for another four months. Kaitlin spent four hours a day in Daycare. Since Johnny was not allowed to drive, Roy, JoAnne or Chris picked Kaitlin up from the center and brought her to her home on the days that Jenny worked late. Johnny was also chauffeured around for physical therapy, to strengthen his back, legs, and his hip. The DeSotos' lives returned to their routine too. JoAnne was in college part time going for a degree in computer sciences. Chris continued working at Station 51. Roy continued to teach part-time, covering some of Johnny's responsibilities. *** Montgomery Bodine, Monty to those who knew him, was released from prison. He settled into a halfway house in downtown Los Angeles. He was considered a model prisoner and was able to get a job doing data entry at service bureau. During his lunch breaks and days off, Monty spent time in his local library following up on the person who sent him to prison. The Internet made it quite easy for him to find his victim. He obsessed on his target, John Gage. During his prison stay, his parents died, leaving all of their possessions to him. Through his attorney, Monty disposed of the property and invested the money. He laughed, realizing he came out from prison wealthier than when he went in. Monty learned that John was married with a wife and daughter. He laughed at the irony that the Gages' house burnt down. It was public record, so Monty knew where the Gages lived. Monty only worked part time. He was able to rent a car using a phony ID. Through connections made in prison and his wealth, Monty was able to get a fake driver's license and other credentials. Some things never changed and having access to money brought him the equipment he'd need to exact his vengeance. He staked out 1735 Crescent Way. He learned the Gages' routine and figure out how he'd exact his revenge. *** On Sunday, Roy and JoAnne drove Johnny and Jenny to the airport. Dr. Carlson gave Johnny permission to take the ten-hour flight to the Caribbean provided he stretched every hour. Jenny assured the doctor that she would take good care of him. "So where are you going again? Where is this island?" Roy asked. He was holding Kaitlin in his arms as the four adults waited in the departure lounge. "Roy, I told you already. It's called Turks and Caicos. It's a small group of islands in the northern Caribbean. We fly to Miami and have a two-hour layover. The flight to the island is ninety minutes." Jenny walked over to Johnny and placed her arms around his waist. "I can't believe we're finally going away." The happiness on her face was infectious. Johnny looked at Jenny. "Your folks have the hotel's information, right?" "Yes, dear." Jenny said with mild sarcasm. They heard the first boarding announcement for their flight. "Katie Roo? Why don't you give your parents a kiss goodbye?" Roy said as he walked with Kaitlin over to Johnny. Johnny took his daughter into his arms. "Remember how much fun you had when you stayed at Poppie's for the weekend?" Kaitlin nodded her head yes. "You're gonna have even more fun. I want you to promise me you'll be good." Johnny sternly looked at his daughter. "I be good Daddy," she said giving her father a little crooked grin. Johnny smiled back at his daughter. "Gimme a kiss and then kiss your Momma bye." Kaitlin gave her Daddy a sweet kiss on his cheek. She stretched out her arms to Jenny wanting her mother to take her. "You are getting to be a big girl, Kaitlin. I want you to listen to everything that Gramma, Poppie and Uncle Chris ask you to do. I'll be thinking about you everyday when I'm away. Now don't forget that!" "I be good girl Momma." Kaitlin said in a sly way. The second boarding announcement was made. Jenny gave Kaitlin back to Roy to hold. "Well Pally, I'm goin' on my honeymoon." Johnny said with a million-dollar smile on his face. "Have a good time, Junior." Roy too, was excited for his friend. Jenny kissed her parents goodbye. She took Johnny's hand and the two walked to the gate. She looked over her shoulder one last time and waved. Kaitlin waved back. Roy whispered something in her ear and Kaitlin started to blow kisses. Jenny and Johnny laughed, then turned around, walked into the gangway and disappeared. Kaitlin was still waving goodbye. JoAnne took her from Roy's arms and stood her up. "Why don't we go home and have some lunch." Kaitlin looked at JoAnne and nodded her agreement. The three walked back to the car to head home. *** Jenny and Johnny settled into their first class accommodations. Since it was their honeymoon, they decided they may as well be comfortable during their transcontinental flight They arrived at the tiny Turks and Caicos Island at night. Their hotel had a car waiting for them and took them to their home for the next two weeks. It was a long flight and they were both tired. After checking in the couple decided to have a quiet night. They decided to eat a light meal and then go to their room. Two weeks of sun and fun awaited them so there was no need to hurry. *** "Roy, what time are you going to take Kaitlin to the Daycare center?" JoAnne asked as she dressed Kaitlin. "I'm gonna leave here at 8 and pick her up at 2. I've got two classes today, but will be done in time so she won't have to wait." JoAnne brushed Kaitlin's long hair and pulled it back into a ponytail. "There you are Kaitlin. Let's go downstairs for breakfast." Kaitlin left her room and walked downstairs to the kitchen. While, Kaitlin ate Cheerios, Roy and JoAnne joined her. "What are your plans today, Jo?" "I've got classes starting at noon and then a lab. I should be home by seven. There's food in the fridge for Kaitlin." JoAnne smiled at Roy. "I know that smile JoAnne and the answer is no." With a teasing look she said, "What smile?" "We are not going to have another child!" "Spoil sport! I know, it's one thing to have Kaitlin here for two weeks…." Roy didn't let JoAnne finish. "You know I don't have the patience anymore. We all saw that a coupla of months ago." JoAnne stood up and walked over to Roy. She placed her arms around his neck and gave him a hug and nibbled on his ear. "I know that, but it's nice to think about it." "Jo, hon, look at it this way, you can borrow Kaitlin anytime you want." "Roy, it's not the same and Kaitlin may be our only grandchild. We know Jenny can't have any more and Chris, well he's a bit lost." "Jo, you just never know." Looking at Kaitlin, Roy asked, "are you ready to go to school, Katie Roo?" "You bet Poppie!" "Okay, well then let's wash your hands and pack your bags and then we're off!" *** "I can't believe how beautiful this place is!" Jenny said as she and Johnny sat outdoors eating breakfast. "We have to walk around and see the resort. The pictures don't do it justice. I never saw water that blue…." Jenny continued talking and Johnny listened nodding his head at appropriate moments. He knew Jenny went through a very difficult period. Although this vacation exceeded their budget, he felt he owed it to her. She deserved a special honeymoon. The couple finished breakfast and walked around the resort, deciding what activities to do. Johnny was told by Dr. Carlson to take it easy and limit the strain on his hip. Swimming was about the only authorized sport, but Johnny didn't mind. He encouraged Jenny to participate in any of the resort's scheduled activities. He'd either be poolside or on the beach. The Gages and DeSotos settled into their two-week routine. Back in Los Angeles, Monty Bodine was settling in to a routine of his own also and moved his stakeout to the DeSotos' residence. *** "Kaitlin, I'll see you at 2:00PM today and then we'll go to the store to look for that Pooh book." Roy said. He kissed her goodbye and watched the attendant take Kaitlin's hand and take her into the room at the Daycare. In Roy's days, childcare didn't exist. Most mothers stayed at home to raise their children. He was fortunate he was able to have JoAnne at home to raise their children. But he knew Jenny wanted and deserved a career. The Gages couldn't afford a nanny, so daycare was the next best thing. The first day Roy dropped Kaitlin off, he stayed at the back of the class to watch. He knew that Jenny and Johnny choose this place carefully, but he wanted to make sure it was indeed a good place after all Kaitlin was his precious cargo. On Thursday, Monty Bodine watched Roy drive away. He knew he'd have one chance to achieve his goal. He smiled in anticipation knowing his treasure was within reach. Monty adjusted his ball cap and climbed out of his car. Reaching back in, he grabbed his clipboard with several forged work order forms on it. Then he grabbed a medium sized bag with a carry strap, which he hung over his shoulder. After checking out the delivery uniform and the phony nametag he was wearing, Monty casually strolled toward the school, signing in as a visitor. He walked inside as though he belonged there. In no time, Monty was able to plant several small devices around various parts of the two story building. Unlike the devises he used in the seventies, these would only cause a small explosion, barely audible and create several small fires. >From his experience of handling such devices and from scoping out the building, inside and out, he knew the children would all have adequate time to get out of the building. Monty then left the building unnoticed and quickly ridded himself of his uniform and his supplies, which he stowed away in the trunk of his car. Dressing in a maintenance uniform, he then walked over to a park bench and waited. Soon several fire alarms went off inside the school, startling the teachers and students. Just like they practiced during fire drills, the teachers began to line the children up in the various classrooms, and then proceeded to lead them out of the building. Before getting too far down the hallway, the teachers became concerned when they saw smoke coming from different parts of the building. Quickly they shuffled the children outside. Mrs. Wilkes, the manager stayed behind and waited 'til all the children left the school. Before closing the door, she quickly checked to be certain everyone was in deed gone and then she made her way out of the building too. Soon, sirens were heard in the distance. Monty made his move after the bombs exploded causing confusion. The terrified children screamed while the adults tried to maintain order and get a head count of the children. During the chaos, Monty walked onto the school grounds, to "help" the adults. No one gave him a second glance because of the uniform. After scanning the crowd of children, he noticed Kaitlin, with two of her friends, all looking scared. Walking up to the three children, Monty smiled and then addressed his soon to be hostage. "Kaitlin?" Monty said. She looked up at him. Seeing the familiar uniform from the Daycare center, she smiled knowing she could trust him. "Your Poppie wanted me to pick you up and bring you to him." He lowered his hand and she took it. The two walked away as if it was a natural scene. *** Station 51 was among the stations that arrived at the scene of the Daycare center fire. "Jeff, this is Kaitlin's center." Chris said, as he turned to his captain alarmed. "Hey Cap? This is Kaitlin's school." Marco nodded his head in acknowledgement. "Chris, it looks like the teachers have all the children in the yard. I bet we'll find Kaitlin there." Jeff reassured his partner. The firemen went about their business dousing the flames. Since none of the children or teachers needed any medical assistance, Chris and Jeff tended to the fire too. Once it was under control, Chris asked his Captain if he could look around for Kaitlin. As Chris walked across the yard toward the group of children, he noticed several teachers and police officers surrounding the children. Then off to one side, another teacher was speaking with another police officer. Concerned, Chris picked up his pace. Approaching the group, he overheard the tail end of the conversation. Panic surged through him, fearing the missing child was Kaitlin. "Excuse me, " Chris interjected, "who's the missing child. My niece attends school here. I just wanna make sure she's okay." "What is your name, sir," the officer asked politely. "Chris DeSoto. My niece is Kaitlin Gage." "Oh, Mr. DeSoto. I'm so sorry. I…" "What?" Chris shouted. "Kaitlin," Chris yelled beginning to check through the crowd of children. "Mr. DeSoto," the officer interrupted. "Mr. DeSoto. Please. Sir, you have to calm down?" "Calm down. You've got to be kidding me. Where's Kaitlin?" Chris yelled at the teacher. Tears formed in the teacher's eyes. "I'll get Mrs. Wilkes," she said in a shaky voice. Noticing the commotion, Jeff and Marco hurried over to where Chris was. "Chris what's wrong?" Marco asked. "Cap, Kaitlin's missing. They can't find her," Chris yelled clearly upset. Marco looked at Jeff than at Chris then sighed. "Calm down Chris. Your getting upset isn't gonna help Kaitlin." Chris ran a nervous hand through his hair and nodded. Glancing around he noticed the Dodge Durango used by the arson inspector parked in front of the squad. Although it was common practice that most fires scenes were gone over by the arson squad, Chris had to know. "Cap, do they suspect arson?" Marco knew there was no easy way to tell his young paramedic, so he spoke frankly. "Yes Chris, Wayne Simmons and his team are here. They've already found three small explosive devices at the origin of the fires." "Fires!" Chris shouted. Marco nodded. "Yes Chris, so far they have found three separate ignition points. They've pulled us out and their investigation has begun. "Dammit," Chris cursed. The manager, Mrs. Wilkes, approached Chris. "Mr. DeSoto, I'm Mrs. Wilkes." She offered her hand. Chris took off his glove and shook it. "I'm sorry, we've done another head count and we can't locate Kaitlin. Is there any chance your father or mother picked her up?" Chris paled and shook his head no. Taking a deep breath, Chris looked at Marco. "Cap, I better call my folks and let them know." Chris walked back to the squad to get some change out. There was a pay phone nearby. "Go with him." Marco said to Jeff. Several minutes later several more police cruisers pulled up. Two plain-clothes officers stepped out of an unmarked car and walked over to Mrs. Wilkes. Chris was unsuccessful in reaching his folks and didn't want to leave a message. He even called Rampart, but was told his father was out in the field and couldn't be reached. Checking his watch, Chris knew it would only be a short time and Roy would be here for Kaitlin anyway. He decided he would wait for Roy to arrive and tell him in person. Taking a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves some, he rejoined the group and was introduced to the Detective's "When were you first aware that Miss Gage was missing, Mrs. Wilkes?" Detective Rawlins asked. "As soon as we did a head count of the children, we discovered one of them was missing. We then checked names off from the list against the nametags the children wear. That's when we knew it was Kaitlin who was missing. I immediately approached the uniformed officer," pointing him out to the Detective, "that one of our children was missing." "And there was no chance of her still being in the school." "No one was in the building," Marco stated. "My men did a through sweep of the building to be sure no one was left inside." "Okay, is there any chance her parents picked her up?" Detective Stone asked. Chris spoke, "her parents are on vacation and my folks are watching her. My Dad's been dropping her off and picking her up." Chris started to feel faint. Jeff saw Chris' body language and put his hand on his back to steady him. "Do you have a recent picture of her?" Detective Rawlins asked. "We need to know what she looks like so our officers can begin searching and we also need to know what she was wearing today." Chris reached for his wallet, but realized it was in his locker. Mrs. Wilkes shook her head. "We have her picture in the computer, but…" "I'm afraid the power has been cut off to the building. It's standard procedure during any fire," Marco interjected. "We'll get one," Chris said meeting the Detective's gaze. Detective Stone nodded. "As for what she was wearing. I think, I'm pretty sure she was dressed in a navy blue Pooh bear legging set. I know her grandfather would know for sure." Mrs. Wilkes said clearly shaken. Another teacher walked over holding the hands of two little girls. "Melissa and Sammy were with Kaitlin. They saw a tall man wearing a maintenance uniform talking with Kaitlin. He said something about her Poppie needing her and she walked away with him." "Poppie," Chris said in a strangled cry. "That's what she calls my father." "I think we better get some more help." Detective Stone said before walking toward his cruiser to use the radio. *** "Come here ole man, I want to put some suntan lotion on you." Jenny motioned and Johnny sat down on the dual chaise chair. "I know we're under the tiki hut, but this sun is really strong." She rubbed the coconut-scented lotion on his back. "Look at my tan lines." Jennifer moved the strap of her one-piece suit to expose her skin. "I'm shocked at you, Mrs. Gage, exposing yourself to me." "I'm not Mrs. Gage. I'm Ms. DeSoto and I'm trying to seduce you." She giggled and continued to rub the lotion on him, very slowly. Every once in awhile, she applied lotion to Johnny's body in places the sun usually doesn't shine upon. She saw what affect this was having on him. Whispering in his ear, "and when I'm done, you can apply some on me." "What do you want to do today, Ms. DeSoto?" Johnny asked as he was playing with the strings on her bathing suit. Jenny looked at him and noticed how rested he looked. The suntan added to his untroubled appearance. "Johnny, I want to try windsurfing later and maybe even water-skiing. Do you want to snorkel later?" "I can do that," he said while shaking his head. "How's the hip? Is it giving you any problem today?" "I think I'm used to walking on the sand. As long as I take it slow and easy, I should be okay. I also think some of our extra curricular stuff, is ah…." "Oh you mean sex?" "Angel!" Johnny squeaked, looking around to see if anyone was within earshot. Jennifer giggled. "You are so cute when you are uncomfortable with things." She tweaked his nose. "We can take a break from that, if you want." She smiled smugly. Johnny started to rub the lotion on her back, using his thumbs in a circular motion. Jennifer started to purr. "I didn't say I didn't want to, you know." "Have sex." Jennifer blurted. Johnny grabbed her shoulders and pulled her back into his chest. "Will you stop saying that?" He muttered into her ear after he nipped it. "Saying what? Sex!" Jennifer was teasing him. "Yes, that." Johnny saw the teasing look on her face and caught on. "Oh I see what you're doing. You've taken lessons from the Phantom, haven't you?" He wrapped his arms around her. "Let's just see how things go. We still have another ten days here. I don't want to get you too used to a good thing." Jenny bolted forward and started laughing. "What are you laughing about?" Johnny asked feigning a hurt expression. "Too much of a good thing! You're so adorable." She grabbed his hand, "Let's go play in the ocean." *** Roy showed up at the Daycare center at 1:30PM. When possible, he liked to arrive early to watch the class. Parking his car, he saw a several police cars out front and a couple of Dodge Durangos used by some of the chiefs and fire investigators within the fire department. Concerned, he got out of his car and hurried toward the building only to find it cordoned off and a police office standing guard at the entrance. "I'm sorry sir," the officer said. "You can't go into the building. There is a fire investigation going on." Roy panicked. He quickly pulled his wallet out and showed his Fire department ID to the officer. "I'm with the fire department and I need to get inside, now." Roy told him in an urgent voice. "Of course, sir," the officer replied allowing Roy to enter the building. Inside, Roy ran down the hallway to where Kaitlin's class was located. An acrid aroma hung heavy in the air and water puddles lay everywhere in the hallway. In places, water still dripped from the ceiling. As Roy got closer to Kaitlin's classroom, he found Chris dressed in his uniform standing with several other people. Panicked, Roy picked up his pace. "Chris," Roy yelled, "where's Kaitlin?" Chris stepped toward his dad. Taking hold of his father's arm, he spoke, "Dad, there was a small fire here today and Kaitlin ... she's missing. The police think she's been kidnapped." "Oh no." Roy felt his knees begin to buckle, he staggered a step, and regained his balance. Roy rubbed his head with his left hand. "Tell me what happened, Chris." "There were several small bombs that went off. The police think it was a diversion. They don't know for sure yet if Kaitlin was the target or if the guy was just after any kid." "Does your mother know?" Roy softly asked. "No, I tried to reach you earlier, but got the answering machine. The police want to go to Johnny's house to see if there are any phone messages or mail and they need a current picture of Kaitlin." Roy nodded his head. He checked his pocket, knowing he had a spare set of keys. "Let's go." The DeSotos along with two police detectives drove to 1735 Crescent to check on the Gages' house. *** While all this was going on, Monty Bodine was eating lunch with Kaitlin at a fast food restaurant. He had no issue with the littlest Gage. His issue was with her father. He watched the family's routine and knew the Gages were away. That's what made grabbing Kaitlin so much more fun for him. He put a mild sedative in Kaitlin's soda and it was doing its job. She was getting drowsy. "Are you okay Kaitlin?" Anyone watching would have thought it was a father and daughter scene playing out. "I tired. Where's my Poppie?" Kaitlin was slurring her words. Getting up, Monty reached over and picked Kaitlin up. "I'm going to take you to him right now." He played the part so well and smiled at the other parents who were at the restaurant with their children. However, Monty had no plans to take Kaitlin to Roy. He had his hideaway and was going to take Kaitlin there. *** The DeSotos and the detectives arrived at the Gages' home. Chris went for the mail while Roy opened the door. Chris returned and placed the mail on the table so the detectives could look through it. Detective Rawlins asked, "is the house in order? Why don't you look around, Roy." Roy nodded his head in agreement and walked through the entire house. "There are some messages on the machine. Should we play them?" Chris asked. Roy came back into the living room after very carefully checking over the entire house. "Everything looks as it should." Detective Stone walked to the machine and played the messages. "Hi Jenny. It's Allison. I wanted to wish you a great time on your honeymoon. Call me when you're back and give me all the details." Beep. "This message is for John Gage from Doctor Carlson's office. We want to remind you that for your next appointment, you will need to have new x-rays taken." Beep. "I've got her." A soft, husky voice said. Beep. "No more messages," the automated voice said. "WHAT WAS THAT?" Roy yelled. Detective Rawlins rewound the tape and played it again. "The timestamp of that message indicates the call came in today at 11:00 AM," he said to his partner. "Do they have caller ID?" Detective Stone asked. Roy shook his head, "no." "At least we know now Kaitlin wasn't taken at random." Detective Rawlins mentioned as his partner jotted down some notes. "DOES THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE?" Roy shouted, his face flushed. "Dad, take it easy." Chris said walking over to Roy to steady him. "Remember your heart." Roy looked down. "Chris, my heart won't matter if we can't find Kaitlin." "Does you daughter or son-in-law have any known enemies, Mr. DeSoto?" Detective Rawlins asked. Roy thought about the question. He couldn't think of anyone who would hate them that much to do this. And he knew that they didn't have the money either that would warrant a kidnapping. "No. No one comes to mind." Roy answered in a frustrated voice. He walked over to the couch and sat down. He rested his head in his hands. After several minutes he said, "We better let JoAnne know." "What about Jen and Johnny? They need to know, too." Chris reminded him. Roy hung his head again, and agreed in a defeated voice. "I know they do." He looked at his watched and figured out the time difference. It was 5:00pm in California, which meant it was 9:00pm in the islands "Let me call JoAnne first and get the number from her." Roy called home and found JoAnne who was surprised not to find Roy and Kaitlin home. He tried to calmly tell her what happened, but knew she wouldn't take the news well. Roy convinced her to stay home in hopes Kaitlin would miraculously show up there. But, she gave him the number after he promised to let her know if anything happens. Roy stood up and started to pace. "What am I suppose to tell them? That their baby is gone? That I couldn't safeguard her well being?" Roy shouted to no one in particular. He looked at the number, sat down and picked up the phone. *** Monty Bodine put the sleeping child in the back seat of his car. He knew he had a long drive ahead of him and didn't need Kaitlin distracting him. He was heading south to cross the border. With the lead-time he had, he knew he'd be in Mexico before anyone could figure anything out. He smiled; knowing the short message he left on the machine would drive everyone involved, crazy. *** Johnny and Jenny were slowly walking around the resort, holding hands. They didn't need to speak. They were absorbed in the moment, enjoying it. At 9:30 PM, they returned to their room. Johnny sprawled out on the king-size bed and motioned Jenny to join him. With a smile on her face she got on the bed and lay on top of Johnny. She placed her hands on his chest to use as a pillow. He placed his arms on her back and gently rubbed her up and down. He played with the buttons on the back of her dress and started to undo them. Jenny pretended to sleep as Johnny undressed her. The phone ringing in their room stopped his actions. "Go away." Johnny said to the phone. Jenny softly moaned. "Who could that be?" He asked. Raising her head Jenny said, "maybe it's the Reigers. We're suppose to go sailing with them tomorrow." Johnny picked up the phone. "Hello?" He smiled, "hi Roy." "Dad?" Jenny instantly rolled off Johnny and sat up. She wondered what was wrong. Why would her father call? Johnny sat up as Roy spoke. "What? Say that again? SHE'S MISSING?" "Who's missing, Johnny?" Jenny's panic was apparent. Johnny motioned for Jenny to settle down. "When did this happen?" Johnny listened as Roy told him what little he knew. "I see. Is that all you know? Aha. Yeah." Johnny ran his hand through his hair. He stood up. Jenny stood up to be with him. Johnny grabbed her hand. "Yeah, she's okay. I'll tell her. As soon as I know what flight, I'll call ya. Yeah. Thanks." Johnny hung up the phone and looked into Jenny's troubled eyes. "What is it, Johnny? What's wrong? Who's missing?" Jenny said raising her voice. After dropping the receiver into the cradle, Johnny closed his eyes and sighed heavily. The news he had to share with his wife he knew would be as heart-rending for her as it was for him. Facing Jenny, Johnny held both of her hands. "Angel, your Dad said Kaitlin is missing." "No," Jenny said abruptly, pulling away from her husband. "This can't be, not my baby. Not Kaitlin." Jenny jumped off the bed and began to pace around the room. Not knowing what else to do, Johnny felt he needed to relay Roy's conversation to Jenny, in hopes of calming her some. Not that he was calm. In fact, all Johnny wanted to do was scream and tear the room to shreds, but he knew he had to maintain his composure. "Roy said there was a fire at the school today," Johnny began running his hand through his unruly hair, "He said it was probably a diversion to get her. They think she was kidnapped. There was a message left on our machine," Johnny added. Jenny gazed at her husband until he finished speaking. Once the information registered, she placed her hands over her face and started to sob. Her shoulders shook as the tears fell from her eyes. Johnny walked over to her and held her tight. He too was upset but knew he had to be strong for Jenny. For several long minutes Johnny held onto Jenny while she cried. "Angel," he whispered, "let's go to the concierge. We need to get back to LA." Jenny looked up, her eyes red and swollen. Trying to be positive, Johnny added, "Maybe…maybe they will find her before we get home." "How can you remain so calm, Johnny?" Johnny didn't have to think about the answer. "Too many years of being a search and rescue man, Jen. I guess all that training paid off. I'm on autopilot now." He took Jenny's hands, grabbed the keys off the dresser and they left the room. *** "So now what?" Roy asked the detectives. Detective Rawlins answered. "We put a trace on the phone and listen in. We research Mr. Gage's background to determine if there's anyone who wants to harm him." Chris spoke up. "Cap told me the fire was started because of some small explosive devices that were set. It was arson. Maybe we should talk with the arson investigator and see what he found out." "You know who's investigating this, Chris?" "Yea, Captain Lopez said Wayne Simmons is in charge." Roy picked up the phone and called Hank Stanley. He told his former boss what happened and asked for Simmons' phone number. With that in hand, he placed his next call. "Wayne Simmons please. Hi, this is Captain Roy DeSoto. Yeah, formerly of 45's… Yeah, I'm okay. It's about the fire at the Daycare center… Yup. Arson. Do you recognize the bomb signature?…Yes, I see… Aha. Well, when you figure it out, would you let me know, please? It's important… Yes, something big is riding on it." Chris looked at his father. "Simmons said they got enough fragments to run the elements through the database. He's doing it now, but says it's gonna take sometime. The detectives left. Their first priority was to notify the authorities in the other nearby states and at the border to keep a keen eye out for a little girl matching Kaitlin's description. A photo would be forthcoming by fax to all police agencies. They also had to inform the FBI that this was now a case of kidnapping. Their second priority was to check their files for recently released arsonists and cross-reference them against John Gage's past. "So what do we do now, Dad?" Chris asked. Roy got up and put his hand on Chris' shoulder. I'm going to go home. You can come if you like. Johnny will call tomorrow and one of us will have to pick them up when they arrive. Maybe you can go food shopping and stock up for them. You're not on tomorrow?" "No Dad, once Davidson came in, Cap gave me the afternoon off. My next shift is Saturday." "Well, let's close down this place and go home." As Roy walked toward his car, his shoulders were slumped. He hurt in a major way for the little one that wormed her way into his heart. Allowing Chris to drive, the DeSoto men headed toward home. *** The Gages met with the concierge. Even though it was late, she was able to get them on the morning flight to Miami. From there, they were flying to Atlanta and then to Los Angeles. They would be flying for more than ten hours, but would eventually get home. Johnny planned to call Roy in the morning and give the flight information to him. Hopefully, there would be some news to Kaitlin's whereabouts. Johnny couldn't sleep. He was in bed with his arms around Jenny. She fell in and out of sleep, waking in starts. Johnny would calm her down. Seeing her this way reminded him of the little girl that captured his heart twenty years ago. He thought how ironic that he felt the same way about his own daughter; that he'd do anything for her. His heart was aching, but there was nothing he could do about. *** Bodine had no trouble crossing the border. He managed to do so before the border guards began to search vehicles. He found a small motel in Tijuana for the night. He paid for the room and brought Kaitlin in. He woke her up so she could go to the bathroom. He didn't want any accidents. Once he was satisfied she was okay and would resume sleeping, he tucked her into bed. He left the room locking the door. He had other unfinished business to do and Tijuana was a town that didn't ask questions. *** The flight home was the longest event in Johnny's life. He was exhausted and worried for his daughter and wife's well being. Jenny didn't eat breakfast and only picked at her airline food. The airline, aware of what the Gages were going through, bumped them up to first class accommodations. Johnny tried to sleep, but whenever he'd get into a light trance, he'd wake with a start. Jenny had no luck either. It was difficult for her to keep her emotions in check. The two quarreled in the hotel before leaving. It started over something small but escalated. Johnny knew Jenny was taking it out on him. But he too was worn out from the previous night's events. "Chris is going to meet us at LAX, right?" Jenny asked. She didn't even look at Johnny but continued to stare out the window. "Yeah, Roy said Chris will meet us and bring us home. Roy and the detectives will be waiting for us." Johnny cast his eyes down. Jenny looked at him and took his hand. Johnny responded by looking at his wife. She began to sob. Johnny moved the armrest dividing their seats. He gathered her in his arms and held her as she wept. *** Chris met them at the gate, but had no news for them. He drove them home with the silence permeating the ride. *** Bodine continued to drive south. Kaitlin was in the passenger seat; playing with a stuffed cat he bought her. His final destination was Rosarito Beach. He knew which cottage he was going to stay at. He had done his research prior to embarking on his plan. He then would have to arrange to hire a baby-sitter who would watch Kaitlin during his absence. He didn't want to continue to use the tranquilizers on her. He planned to go back across the border several more times before he was done with Kaitlin. "I want my Daddy." Kaitlin whined throwing the cat on the floor of the car. "Is that any way to treat the present I bought you, Kaitlin?" Bodine looked her and smiled. "I miss my Daddy and Momma and Poppie and Gramma. I wanna go home." "Kaitlin, you will be going home. We're just gonna play some more and then I'll take you home." "Promise?" Her little voice asked. "Promise." Bodine said, a knowing lie, and he continued to drive south on the Tijuana toll road. *** "I think I hear a car in the driveway," Roy said as he got up to open the door. He watched Johnny and Jenny step out of Chris' car. Roy saw how drained they both looked. Johnny didn't say anything to Roy as he walked into his home. Jenny followed him while Chris took their bags out from the car's trunk. Johnny walked over to the detectives. "I'm John Gage and this is my wife Jennifer Gage." "Mr. and Mrs. Gage, I'm Detective Rawlins and this is my partner Detective Stone. First off, we are sorry to have to meet you under these circumstances. We want you to know that we are doing everything possible to get your daughter back to you. Over there, at the table with the phone and the surveillance equipment is Detective Muse and Officer Harding. They will stay here and monitor your calls." Roy went into the kitchen to make a fresh pot of coffee. Chris brought the bags inside and afterwards went into the kitchen. He left the Gages alone with the detectives. "What do you know?" Johnny asked as he sat down on the couch. Jennifer sat down next to him. "We have a description of a tall man in his late 50s. He was seen at the school. Chris gave us a picture of Kaitlin. Through a fast food restaurant's surveillance tape, we saw them eating lunch Thursday afternoon." "Where was this?" "It was in San Diego." "Shit," Johnny cursed. "So are you assuming they're heading south?" Jenny asked. "Yes and we've alerted the Mexican authorities. But, however they've had a significant head start." "Oh no, my baby. Where is my baby?" Jenny wailed. Johnny wrapped his arms around her, holding her tightly to his chest. Roy came out from the kitchen hearing his daughter's distress. He walked over to her but saw her being taken care of by Johnny. He held her while she wept loudly. Roy was glad JoAnne stayed home, as he knew their daughter's grief would upset her greatly. After five minutes Johnny spoke up, "so we just sit here and wait, is that it?" "Yes, you have to wait. The arson inspector is trying to match up the explosive devises that started the fire with all known arsonists in and out of prison. We have several police and FBI agents working on this. We're hoping they will come up with a name for us very soon." Roy spoke up. "You said there was a surveillance picture. Can we see it?" Jenny came to attention hearing that. "The picture is grainy. You can see Kaitlin's face, but only the back of the man's head." "I want to see it." Jenny demanded. "Angel…." "I WANT TO SEE IT. I WANT TO SEE MY BABY!" She insisted, shouting. Detective Stone went to his briefcase and took the picture out and gave it to Jenny. She looked at the picture and outlined her daughter's face with her finger. "She's wearing that blue and white outfit. I can tell by the stripes." Jenny briefly smiled but soon realized that this may be the last picture she'd ever see of her daughter. She dropped the picture on the floor. Leaning into Johnny, she cried. Roy bent down and picked it up and gave it a good long look. He felt guilty, wrongly believing Kaitlin's disappearance was his fault. "Angel, let me take you upstairs. It's been a long day for us. I need you to rest. Tomorrow's gonna be even longer." Johnny wanted to pick her up and carry her upstairs, but knew he couldn't. With Chris' help, he brought his wife upstairs. "Thanks, Chris. I'm gonna get her comfortable and then I'll be back down." Johnny patted Chris on the back as he exited the bedroom. Johnny closed the door. "Mr. DeSoto, we are also looking at recently released felons with a background in explosives. Did Mr. Gage testify at any trials, during his active career?" Roy thought for several moments. "I know we both testified at least a dozen times for various crimes that were committed by people during our tenure at 51's. I'm sure Johnny testified on his own too." "If you can list the cases you remember, it may help." "It's been some time." Roy sadly said. "I'm not sure if the records are available?" "What records?" Johnny asked as he walked down the stairs. He went into the kitchen, poured himself a cup of black coffee and returned to the living room. "The records off all the people we testified against." Roy bluntly said. Johnny just shook his head as he sipped the hot beverage. "I see. I guess it can't help. We can call over to records and see what information they've maintained." Johnny sat down and put the coffee on the glass table. He leaned back on the overstuffed sofa and put his head back. Detective Rawlins stood up. "Mr. Gage, we know you are tired, so we're going to go. I've left our business cards on the table. Our home numbers are on them, so call either one of us anytime. You should also know we're tapping any incoming calls, in case…." he trailed off. Johnny opened his eyes and sat up. "In case he calls." Johnny sighed. Roy walked the detectives out, saying a few words at the front door. "When was the last time you ate, Johnny?" Chris asked. "Oh about another life ago. I honestly don't remember Chris." Johnny stood up and started pacing. "I can't believe this. Who would want to do this to me? Who did I ever hurt? I help people. I DON'T UNDERSTAND THIS. I HELP PEOPLE." Johnny continued his outburst. Roy and Chris knew Johnny had to get it out of his system. Johnny sat down on the couch again, hugging a pillow. "How's Jenny doing, Johnny?" Roy asked. Johnny looked up at Roy. "I wish I had a sedative to give her. I may call Brackett tomorrow for a script. She's not eating or sleeping. I wouldn't be shocked if she came back down here in ten minutes. DAMMIT!" He threw the pillow in anger. Chris went into the kitchen a made a sandwich for Johnny. Roy just sat with Johnny, not saying a word. The phone rang. John looked at the phone and was too weary to get it. Roy went to reach for it when Johnny got up. "Hello." "I've got her." "WHO IS THIS?" Chris and Roy stood hearing Johnny's shout. Laughing, "you still haven't figured it out." "If your quarrel is with me, then take me, but leave my baby out of it." He said pleading. "It's more fun this way. I don't have much time, but now, you're going to find out what waiting is all about. Just like you made me wait all those years. Gotta go, John." The phone disconnected. "Who was it?" Roy asked. Johnny shook his head. "I don't know. But he said, 'he's got her.' Isn't that what he said yesterday?" Detective Muse looked at Officer Harding who had a headset on. The officer shook his head letting the Detective know, he didn't make contact. "Mr. Gage. We were unable to establish where the phone call was made, but we did record what the man had to say," Muse said. "I'm gonna call Rawlins and let him know we have had contact." Anger ripping through him, Johnny's slammed the receiver into its cradle. The last two days were catching up with him. Not only was he emotionally tired, he hadn't eaten or slept in two days and now this, a game of cat and mouse something none of them needed. Muse allowed Roy and Chris to calm Johnny down. He went about making necessary calls on his cell phone. "Come here, John, sit down." Chris reached for John's arm and sat him on the couch. 'Johnny, you gotta eat something. You have to keep your strength. I made you a sandwich." Chris went back into the kitchen and brought Johnny the food and placed it on the coffee table. "You can't live on caffeine, Junior. I'm not gonna mother you, but try to eat something." Johnny looked up at Roy. For the first time he saw how pained Roy was from this whole odyssey. He saw the dark circles under his former partner's eyes. Johnny realized that Chris, JoAnne and Roy were suffering too, as much or even more than he was. He picked up a half of the sandwich, took a bite and said, "How's JoAnne dealing with this?" Roy looked at his watch and saw how late it was. "Not good. I better call her and let her know you are all home." Borrowing Chris' cell phone to call JoAnne and update her on what was going on. After fifteen minutes, Johnny leaned back into the couch and fell asleep, softly snoring. Roy went upstairs to the guest bedroom and removed a blanket from the closet. He brought it downstairs and covered Johnny with it. Whispering, Roy told Chris, "I'm going to stay here, just in case either of them need me. Don't you have to be at 51s tomorrow, Chris?" Chris smiled, "yes I do, but you forget, I'm used to these late nights." He smiled at his son. "So am I Chris. I'll be okay, go on, please." Roy walked Chris to the door and let him out. "Call me if anything happens." "I will Chris." Roy closed the door. When he walked back into the living room, he saw Jenny sitting on the stairs. "I thought you were asleep." Roy stated. "I can't sleep Dad. As soon as I fall asleep, I see her." Roy nodded to the officers who remained in the Gages' living room then walked up the flight of stairs and sat down next to Jenny. He put his arms around her shoulders. "You must be exhausted Dad. Let me fix up the guest room for you." "That's okay Jen, I know my way around here. I'll do it." "Should we leave him there sleeping?" Jenny asked. "I don't see why not. If he wakes up, he'll join you upstairs." Roy answered with a smile on his face. "I thought I heard the phone ring. Who was it?" The smile left Roy's face. "It was a wrong number." He stood up and took Jenny's hand. "Let me tuck you in." "Daddy…." She smiled. "What, can't a father still tuck his favorite daughter in?" Jenny shook her head as she and Roy went upstairs. *** Monty got back to Rosarita Beach early the next morning. He went into the cottage and saw Kaitlin sound asleep. The medication he gave her knocked her out. He didn't want to continue to use it, so he knew he needed to find a sitter to watch Kaitlin while he did his things. Monty planned to go back across the border and make a house call on the Gages, but wanted time to go by, just as it did the many years he was in prison. One thing prison life taught him was patience. |