Checkmate - Chapter VIII

Kayn's father spent his last years in a continuous care facility; sitting at a window waiting for Alyssa.

Harry and Phillip, Kayn's older brothers found their father underneath his carpenter bench, unresponsive, suffering frost bite and dehydration. While hospitalized the Doctors believed that he had suffered several small strokes and after further testing he was diagnosed in the early stages of Dementia. Harry had sent Kayn notice of all the Hospital reports, but received no response so he and Phillip represented the only two family members willing to provide the hospital with directions for their fathers care. They tried returning him to the ranch, with an army of caregivers, but he refused help and in due course he was returned to the emergency room suffering from a blood infection. Together Harry, Phillip and the Hospital Administrator's signed a joint order placing him in perpetual care. When he was coherent and logical Harry and Phillip took turns bringing him back to his beloved ranch home where he would rest on the porch until it was time to return to the Care Unit.

Like a million other prescribers to the daily News, Kayn read of his father's passing, in the morning publication; a small family service would be held at the Ranch with his father's ashes spread over the property. Within a week he received notice of the date, time and place for the reading of the Will, which of course he ignored. Shortly thereafter he received notice of the estate assignment, which did not differ from what he had been told by his father as a young boy; 90% of the land was divided between Harry and Phillip; 10% going to Kayn, with a conservation easement in favor or the Federal Conservatory Reserve, blanketing the land to evermore remain in its natural state. Kayn had no intention of disputing the land assignment; he immediately sent the paperwork onto the in-house Solicitors giving them instructions to gift the lands to his oldest son, Robert.

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Over the years, Harry became a brilliant investor and philanthropist. Known as the Prophet of the Prairies, he believed that a stock which cannot be held for 10 years should not even be owned; now with a portfolio valued in excess of Ten Billion Dollars his audience watched each and every move Harry made towards investments. When sitting on the board of trustees for Duke University; he met Robert, Kayn's oldest son. Having no children of his own he enjoyed getting to know and becoming good friends with him.

It became quite common for Robert not to return home between school semesters; since leaving home he had become quit distant from his father and found it easier to communicate through his mother, who would travel to North Carolina to spend time with Robert. He found his growing friendship with his Uncle so worthwhile; beginning to understand and respect his diverse heritage. He had also been introduced to his Uncle Phillip and his grandmother, Alyssa, who he found to be so sincere and genuine. He had finished up all pending registrations over the first few weeks of summer and was planning to go down to South Carolina where he had found a job. Packing the last of his bags, the phone rang; it was Harry advising him that Alyssa was on her way down and bringing a guest. Robert anxious to see Alyssa again confirmed that he was leaving then and would arrive later that afternoon.

Harry had talked to Robert about his relationship with his mother becoming estranged after she left his father; but over time he respected her decision and knew it had not been a generous life for her on the ranch. She was living a life now that was very beneficial to her growth and happiness. Both Harry and Phillip were happy for their mother.

Entering the door at the arrivals terminal, Harry saw Alyssa standing with a man, who he thought he recognized, but did not know from where.He walked over and was quickly introduced to Dr. Albert Morton; immediately Harry knew of this renowned man worthy of his regard. Harry quickly raising his hand to greet Dr. Morton.

"Well, sir this is a pleasure. When Mom said she was travelling with a friend, I certainly did not expect it to be such a luminary persona. I have followed your work for years. It is truly a pleasure to meet you."

"Thank you. I as well am thrilled to meet you, having followed your career for years. Perhaps we can both benefit from some career council ling during our visit."

"I look forward to it."

Robert arrived at the house later that afternoon. He was honored to meet Dr. Morton and admired the ease and contentment that surrounded he and Alyssa. The house vibrated with laughter that day.

Alyssa was thrilled to be able to spend more time with Robert; the gathering proved to be the beginning of a long-time alliance between a very diverse troupe that by chance had congregated and quickly formed a comradeship that would carry forth knowing no limits. At Roberts request it was agreed that his father not be told.In the months that followed, Harry advised Robert of the illegal implications surrounding Albert. He knew he must be with his extended family and friends giving support so he travelled home with Harry. For months, it seemed that the devastation surrounding Albert and Alyssa would not cease until Albert stood to public surrender.

All along Alyssa had kept her news from Albert, not wanting to burden him further; she had been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor and given only a short while to get her affairs in order. She had quietly spoken with Harry, Phillip and Robert, leaving them in complete ruin when hearing the news; but respecting her request to not tell Albert. The day of Albert's sentencing, he turned and looked at Alyssa before being lead away by the guards; she stood strong, not giving any indication of her own destiny, only whispering her love. Her solitude and isolation over Albert quickened her demise and with her family at her side she found peace. Harry was appointed as executor for her estate; which held no monetary value only his vow to his mother they would find out what, or who, was responsible for Albert's demise.Harry had such admiration for Robert; he reminded him very much of himself at this age; dedicated to his studies; achieving his Masters in Medicine and then carried on his studies in neurobiology; now residing in Brazil under the Duke Alumni in their studies in Social Justice and Sustainable Developments. Robert calls South Carolina home, visiting his Uncle when opportunity arises. He has also formed a special bond with his Uncle Phillip who he has promised to visit on the ranch that his grandfather started. He hears from his father, a few times a year and only returned home when hearing the news of his mother's illness.

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If it were not for his genuine regard he had for his relationship, Kayn would have ended his friendship with Irene months ago. His children, her children, they all offered nothing more than distasteful judgment. It had become an embarrassment to even attempt to entertain them within the same room.

For the Christmas holidays, Kayn had made plans for he and Irene to travel down to Miami, where he had a beach front estate. When he mentioned their plans to his daughter she become outraged with the thought so Kayn then volunteered that perhaps she and her family also travel down with them. She of course accepted the suggestion and by the end of the day had convinced two of her siblings to also come. Irene, after hearing the revised travel plans, thought it best that she not go, but Kayn would not hear of it and further volunteered that she see if any of her children wished to come as well.

The day the Towne Car meet Kayn and Irene in the lobby of their building en route to the Airport, they were embarking on a trip that now included both her children and Kayn's. She had come down with a troublesome cold and flu that did not want to go away, even with the antibiotics that her Doctor had prescribed. As she sat in the backseat of the car her thoughts were only that she should be staying home.

Over the next forty-eight hours children and grandchildren continued to arrive; and Irene wanting to greet and tend to everyone's needs, ignored the Doctors orders to rest.

Looking down on the courtyard; to the right were his children, all but Robert, and to the left were Irene's; he had seen similar standoffs on the 49th floor board room. Since his mothers passing Robert had become very distant always too busy to come home. Kayn, thought that was a winning attribute for his eldest son to have, success first, family thereafter. He turned from the balcony, poured himself another drink and walked into the study to return to his work. He would let Irene worry about harmonizing the troops.

Reviewing the security updates he was surprised to see that Martin Graham had agreed to go back to Australia; Kayn remembered, with a smile, the last time he swore never to return. Martin and the ASIA agent, Stephen Forbes were on Bar Cove Island when three of the AOC agents were taken into custody; charged with possession of the illegal fire arms and narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. Martin had returned to Brisbane, where the paper trail for Chanarong Montri and Kim Chan So ended; at the time of his report he was still attempting to access the surveillance tapes from the air terminal. Martin's closing comments for the attention of the local police department was that in searching the Island all guests were accounted for except for Mr. & Mrs. Bao and asked that a search commence for this couple.

The second report came from the International Financial Task Force giving some indication of the cash resurfacing in accounts in the Caymans and Switzerland; looking at the balance of accounts, Kayn recognized that it was minuscule to that which was reported as missing.

Irene got through the holidays still not feeling better and only wished to get home. Kayn on the other hand had made arrangements for them to carry on to a ten day trip through the Bahamas. For the entire trip Irene remained in their cabin.

After arriving home Irene made an appointment to see her Doctor where he after seeing her extreme drop in vitals since their last visit, put her immediately into the hospital.

Kayn found this somewhat disturbing having to go to the hospital to visit her and having to arrange for his own supper, which, over the weeks, became a double whiskey.

What started out to be a ten day visit turned into months, with no improvement being seen. All the tests and scans had been taken showing nothing to assist the Doctors in Irene's care, but each day she was becoming weaker and weaker.

After talking with her Doctor, her children returned to be at her bedside; Kayn visiting when he could, offering little in support. His lack of respect for their mother incited the group to eventually refuse him access into their mother's room.

At 2:30 a.m. with her children at her bedside Irene suffered a massive brain aneurysm and passed away.
Her children left it to the hospital staff to notify Kayn.

He took the call from his office the following day, extending his gratitude for the news that Irene was out of pain and now the family can start healing. After thanking the Nurse for her call he replaced the receiver and continued to get ready for his lunch with Shirley; a lovely lady, who had recently lost her husband. He, of course recognized that it would be most inappropriate for them to dine alone, so he had arranged for his daughter and Shirley's niece to also be present.

Living at the gateway of the majestic Rockies or while rising above the skyline in the urban maze, Wendi enjoys being a trendsetter. Challenging herself throughout her career in public relations and community development she accepted each challenge as a leader and adventurer. Her voyage continues, documenting her passionate interests in the wilds of nature, to the downtown streets of the City; recognizing the wealth of knowledge within each subject that she partners with.
Wendi's short stories and poems can be found at:
http://smile-practicalknowledge.blogspot.com/

Contact Wendi at rgm@davincibb.net

View the original article here

Checkmate - Chapter VII

Martin Graham sat in the center of the airplane; a row offering him complete privacy. The agency received unlimited sanctions allowing access to the passenger listings for all departing flights; from those logs he was able to follow the flight of Chanarong Montri and Veronica Bartola to Vancouver and from there they boarded a connecting flight to Brisbane. Kim and Shai were still unaccountable; the passenger listings did not reveal their names and the video surveillance from the terminal would not be available for another 24 hours. He spoke with the Federal Security Agent and it was decided to follow the known trail of Chanarong. He wasted no time arranging his travel plans to Brisbane. Before departing he left several messages for Kayn but had not heard back. Working with Kayn for over ten years, he had great regard for the man; yet there was a side of him that disturbed Martin; on several occasion when Kayn though that he was not in the focus of others he became uneasy and troubled. All security scans had been done on Kayn returning only an impeccable history, yet Martin could not help but think that Kayn had many stones unturned.

Not at all interested in the movie, Martin looked through the window of the plane at the beauty of the sunset now engulfing the sky. He had not been in Australia for years and did not look forward to returning. His last assignment involved a lot of bush walking away from the groomed tourist venues; he encountered snakes and spiders in sizes that should have stayed locked away in his nightmares. The only request made to assistant in preparing his bag was to ensure that his hiking boots were packed. Looking out the window he thought how kind it would be if this trail was contained to the wonderful beaches and tourist huts.

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Chanarong lay in the hammock waiting for the sunset and listening only to the serene rolling tide. Veronica was not expected back until the following day, she had taken a boat back to the mainland to do some shopping. Since arriving on the Island he had spent most of his time walking along the beaches meeting the other guests and staff, with still no sign of Kim. The beaches surrounding the Island were open except for the western coast line. Chanarong swam past the barriers and then turned back towards the beach. As soon as he arrived on the secluded beach uniformed guards were waiting for him; very kind but having no interest in Chanarong's questions, only ordering him to return to the other side of the barricades. He would return to the west beaches, but travelling across the interior.

The silence of the evening was defining; he had not heard Kim coming from behind the Hut towards the hammock.

"Hello Chanarong, I was wondering how long it would take you to find me."

Chanarong rose from the hammock and reached out to greet Kim.

"Hello Kim, it is so good to see you. How did you know I was on the Island?"

"Your swim today caught the attention of security and when I asked the guard to describe the swimmer, their description was so accurate, it could have only been you."

"Kim, I am here for your family. They have not heard from you and are very worried."

"I think it is safer that they not know where I am; I have been given several names of those looking for me and I don't want them harmed in any way."

"Kim, they are safe. We have moved them out of the Province; they are in a secured location. Did you know that you have been accused of taking One Hundred & Fifty Million Yuan from the Country. I'm sure you saw the AOC Agents sitting outside your apartment building. You certainly cannot think that you can hide from them."

"Chanarong, I can explain everything. I only took money that belonged to my family. I did not steal anything belonging to the State. All I want to do is return to my family."

"Well Kim for now that is not a possibility. I am sure your picture remains posted across International Security Agencies, I know that the UK, Canada, the US and Germany have opened files trying to trace the money through laundering filters. If you want to clear your family from this you cannot run from me any further, you have to tell me all the facts; you cannot hold back anything."

"Okay Chanarong, you have my word."

"How long will you and - sorry what is your friend's name?"

"Shai."

"How long will you and Shai be staying on the Island?"

"We are registered for another four days, but I am getting nervous, so I think we will start packing tomorrow and move on."

"Good, I was talking with Mr. Garrison, the Manager at our Hotel and he has told me that he overheard a conversation with the Federal Agents and their Supervisor, who is now on his way to Brisbane; so I agree, this is a very good time to be leaving."

"I have a boat docked in Fremantle. Meet me there tomorrow. This time of year it is full of locals and tourists travelling from Perth, we can stay on the boat. Do you remember Veronica Bartola? She is travelling with me; she will be very happy to hear that we have spoken. Now go back to your hut and try and relax; we will start to work on this tomorrow."

Exchanging a brief embrace Kim turned and walked behind the hut into the dense vegetation.
Chanarong quickly dressed, packed up all their bags and walked to the landing harbor where he would wait until morning; wanting to make sure that Kim did not have any further ideas of running and was still there in the morning.

He was resting at the pool side bar when he noticed the lights from an oncoming charter docking at the harbor. Chanarong stood and walked over to the canopy covered inlet so he could remain in the shadows. Staff from the resort waited on the deck for the party to arrive. The party consisted of four individuals; as they walked up the dock, their faces remained muted in the darkness with the only conversation coming from the staff. Their physical stature indicated that they were all male and Chanarong sensed that this was not a family reunion. They were given directions to their huts, at the north end of the Island and asked to wait until the beach-bug arrived which would drive them. Only when the lights from the beach-bug shone onto the deck did Chanarong see that the party was indeed AOC Agents, who he recognized from the Street outside Kim's apartment. They all took their seats on the beach-bug and Chanarong waited until the vehicle had turned and was travelling down the beach before he headed out towards the west side of the Island.

Kim & Shai were packing when Chanarong got to their hut. Somewhat startled Shai stood behind Kim when Chanarong entered.

"You must be Shai, Kim has been so very kind speaking of you."

"Kim was just telling me of your meeting; I must say that I am happy that you are here."

"Yes so am I. Kim, your instincts for moving on have triggered none too soon. I just saw the AOC Agents arrive at the harbor. They have a hut on the north end of the Island and I don't think they are here to relax. Let's get everything packed and we will wait at the docking harbor. I have spoken with Veronica and she is making arrangements to charter a helicopter from Brisbane in the morning to pick us up. She has already made our flight arrangements to Perth; we are travelling under her stage name of Altola."
The helicopter was on time and they left the Island for Brisbane at 5:30 a.m. Their flight to Perth left on time at 9:00 a.m.; just as the Quantas Flight from Vancouver was arriving carrying Agent Martin Graham.

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Martin cleared customs and was met by Stephen Forbes of the Australian Secret Intelligence Agency. An arrangement to transfer all pertinent security information to ASIA was done by the home office. They went to a security station within the terminal where they reviewed tapes for the past 72 hours. Martin identified Chanarong and his travel companion, Veronica. Stephen Forbes pointed out the arrival yesterday of the AOC Agents; their travel itinerary was laid out that they carried onto Bar Cove, an Island just off the western shore. Martin again failed to identify Kim and his partner Shai. They agreed that they would charter a helicopter at the adjacent terminal and go over to Bar Cove.

Martin and Stephen arrived on the Island, and without an invitation, did not get a cordial welcome. They were told to wait at the bar for the Owners to return from the mainland.

Martin looked around at the dense vegetation and preferred to wait along the dock; where within 15 minutes he was soaking wet with perspiration. The Owners did not return to the Island for another two hours. Introductions were made, security shields were volunteered, but without a court order no records of their guests would be released. Stephen immediately contacted his office to get the necessary orders delivered to the Island.

Martin remembered the noble dressing-down he and his Agents received from Mr. Garrison, and thought these people might be related, or at the least, they attended the same Hotel Management classes.

Martin took the opportunity of changing his cloths and putting on his hiking boots. When he came out from the cabana, sitting at one of the beach front tables were the familiar faces of the AOC Agents. He quickly found his hat and sunglasses, stowed his bag behind the bar counter, took a seat under the umbrella and grabbed a magazine off the counter. He watched the arrival of their breakfast and for the time being their attention was only on their food.

Two uniformed security guards for the resort had gathered at the other end of the bar; it seemed that the arrival of the four overnight guests had caught everyone's attention. They scanned the area noticing Martin, who appeared immersed in his magazine so they carried on their conversation asking if the other knew of the departure of two of their guest early this morning. Both unclear whether this was a checkout or a day trip they would wait for instructions from the office.

After they finished their breakfast the AOC Agents booked a tour boat which would travel around the Island; Martin in turn reserved the beach-bug for his travel. The tour around the Island lasted about one hour; as Martin watched from the beach-bug, the group seemed most interested in the secluded shores along the western shore. When he returned to the main dock, Stephen was waving him over; the court order had arrived.

Looking through the reservations confirmed, as expected, that Chanarong Montri and Veronica Bartola were guests on the Island, but none of the other guests registered gave clues to the whereabouts of Kim and Shai. Martin was interested in finding out about the guests registered on the private beach at the west end, a Juan & Ky Bao from Malaysia. The only records show this was their second trip to the Island, arranging for their own supplies and remain secluded during their stay; generous with the staff and only pay in cash.

Indications are that this is a couple who can afford to maintain their privacy and enjoy the Island; so why are the AOC Agents interested with that end of the Island.

From behind them the security officers called out reporting that the silent alarms to the western beach huts were going off so they were on their way over there. Martin requested that he and Stephen be allowed to accompany the officers, not in their official capacity, but only as back up support if necessary. They had never had a security problem on the Island so the Owners were grateful for their assistance.

Martin could only express his extreme appreciation, as they travelling in the land rover, over the unmarked trails. Arriving along the western beach all appeared quiet, except for the motor boat floating in the tide off the shore. The security guards did not know anything about the boat. Martin and Stephen lingered behind as the two officers walked up to the Hut. The door had been removed from the hinges, which would have triggered the alarms; as they entered all the furniture was turned over, cushions tossed about, drawers pulled out. All the remaining supplies in the Hut were left for garbage on the floor; they called Martin and Stephen up to the Hut. Stephen stayed behind; he remained on the phone with his office arranging for the main Island shore patrol to impound the motor boat.

Martin looked around the Hut. It was completely abandoned of personal articles; nothing giving evidence that Juan & Ky Bao were in the Hut.

Martin asked the officers who were the guests that left the Island this morning. Neither of them had been on duty at the time, but the log confirmed that the booking for the helicopter flight plan was in the name of Chanarong Motri.

Martin asked Stephen to arrange for his team to travel to the Island to see if they could lift any prints.

"In the mean time, may I suggest that the office start looking for their guests."

Martin and Stephen returned to the beach where they watched the shore patrol towing the motor boat away.

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Neither Kim nor Shai ever imagined that when Chanarong said he had a boat, that it would be a 200 foot motorized yacht.
A good friend from the United States had always bequeathed his toys to Chanarong. Travelling to Australia earlier this year, he had carried onto South America, where he would be for another few months, so the boat and staff was left for Chanarong's pleasure.

"The ship is equipped with satellite, but under the circumstances I have instructed the Captain to disengage the connection, no sense going to this trouble of finding this seclusion and then being located from satellite signals."

Walking along the lower corridor Kim and Shai were like children opening all the doors to the bedrooms, finally selecting the bedroom closest to the stairs.

Chanarong and Veronica randomly selected the bedroom across the walkway.
"Kim I am going to instruct the Captain to leave the harbor and travel along the coastline up to Broome. I think it best if we just stay away from docking at any of the harbors for the next little while."

"Sounds good to me."

"That will give us time to work on this problem of yours."

Kim returned to the cabin and found that Shai was asleep on the bed.

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Living at the gateway of the majestic Rockies or while rising above the skyline in the urban maze, Wendi enjoys being a trendsetter. Challenging herself throughout her career in public relations and community development she accepted each challenge as a leader and adventurer. Her voyage continues, documenting her passionate interests in the wilds of nature, to the downtown streets of the City; recognizing the wealth of knowledge within each subject that she partners with. Wendi's short stories and poems can be found at: http://smile-practicalknowledge.blogspot.com/

Contact Wendi at rgm@davincibb.net

View the original article here

Checkmate - Chapter IV

CHANARONG MONTRI HAD BEEN CONTACTED AND AGREED TO MEET THE FOLLOWING DAY WITH NO MORE THAN TWO AGENTS. Without exception, he agreed to meet in the Hotel dining room.

A security team was immediately dispatched to the Hotel to look at locations that surveillance equipment might be installed. The Hotel was vast with European elegance throughout; there were several surveillance spots in the dining room that could conceal recording equipment, but to proceed they would require permission from the Hotel. Mr. Garrison, General Manger was called and requested to return to the Hotel immediately. The team waited in the lobby until his arrival. He walked in, not at all happy for this imposition, regardless of the preeminence of the order. After listening to the request of the Agents his response was only "NO". He would agree only to allowing, after authentication of their identification, to view all existing Hotel security videos; further the videos would not be released in their custody, they would be given an appropriate room at the Hotel to conduct their investigation. Martin Graham of Intelligence reminded Mr. Garrison there were no restrictions in the Federal Security Act on where they may collect security intelligence or information relating to possible threats to the security of the Country; and it has been determined that a guest in his Hotel is considered to be a possible threat.

Mr. Garrison stood against the wall of Agents and addressed Martin Graham - "Sir, I am not denying you performance of your duty; I am denying you, at this stage to charge in here, in the middle of the night and demolish this dining room so that you may install your spy cameras. You can indeed ignore my suggestion and address this issue in front of a Judge, but that will be no sooner than tomorrow morning and then all my suggestions are off the table to you and your team and from that point on this Hotel will only operate under appropriate Court orders."

Martin Graham found Mr. Garrison humorous and in some ways respected his position. He agreed that Security Intelligence would be grateful for access to the Hotels video surveillance and would return in the morning; of course after he had provided Mr. Garrison with a list of the Officers names. "Good Evening Mr. Garrison."
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Chanarong Montri was sitting in the dining room with the same lady he attended the ballet with the previous evening; their attire unmistakably European. Recognizing the Agents he rose and motioned to an empty table across the room. He crossed behind his table taking the arm of his companion, helping her to her feet. She gathered her handbag and gloves and exchanged a gentle touch to each of his checks whispering "L'Amour" then turning and left the dining room.

"Good Morning Gentlemen, my name is Chanarong Montri. I remain a little confused as to the necessity of this meeting, but while in your Country, I do wish to cooperate with the Authorities, but I do hope that our time will be brief."

Kane was watching this interaction from the main security room in the basement of the Hotel.

The Agents knew they must secure the cooperation of this man. He is travelling in the Country legally and they have no grounds to hold him for any reason. The most that the collective Agencies were hoping to achieve today is to ascertain the reasons why he was here.

"Gentlemen, I trust my reputation precedes me. I am a man who does not like to waste my time or anyone else's. I can only assume that my actions are under surveillance and this conversation is being recorded. I must admit that I had an opportunity of being in the Hotel lobby last evening when a few of your representative were, shall we say, staking out the room. I assure you Gentlemen, this is not at all necessary. I am here, like you to locate and hopefully convince Kim to return to his family."

As evidence of his good will he reached inside his jacket and brought out an envelope containing sovereign papers, under the signature and seal of the Chan So family, delegating him full and unrestricted guardianship of Kim Chan So.

Martin Graham spoke - "Mr. Montri please accept our appreciation for your time this morning and to understand that we, I believe, are all here for the same reason. The Agencies have been following Kim Chan So for almost a year now as he keeps crossing the International Boarder for the past few months. I believe this is the longest he has stayed in the Country and it is now causing some security concerns for us all."

"I am in total agreement. As you are aware Mr. Graham, yesterday I spend a brief amount of time at the Banking Tower near the apartment building where I believe Kim is staying. Kim's family has not heard from him in over six months. I am impressed with the street surveillance that you have in place. It is of great concern, but of no surprise, that the AOC is so glaringly present on your streets. They of course are pursuing the currency that Kim allegedly fled the State with."

Martin Graham again spoke - "Is it true Sir, did he leave the State with over 22 Million Dollars?"

"The authorities are estimating currency of $150,000.000. Yuan, which I believe once converted would equal some 22 million, but in answering your question it would appear that he did take the money. I still question if that money belongs to the State or the So family; but of course that is not why we are here today. "

"Are you sure he is inside the apartment?"

"Surveillance shows them arriving on Monday. No evidence of them leaving the apartment since then."

"Is he not jogging?"

"We thought the same, but we have had surveillance on the pathways and at the recreational center, but nothing. We made attempts to enter the apartment building yesterday, but when the front desk called up to their apartment no one answered. The vehicle plates were run, with everything coming back in the name of his companion; and she is only a visitor to the Country."

"I promise you, if he is not jogging, he is not in that apartment."

They exchanged contact information, shook hands and turned to depart; when Chanarong Montri turned and asked where Mr. Kayn was at this time.

Martin Graham shrugged his shoulders indicating that he had no idea of either the name or activity of Mr. Kayn.

"Very well then; but do please send my regards... Gentlemen, until later."
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Kayn remembered the days long ago that he assisted his clients in discreetly moving money overseas; but now the laws prohibit such involvement and for many years he has grown accustomed to his life style and would not enjoy a stay, even at a white color, minimum security facility for such action. Kayn returned to his files prepared by the International Financial Action Task Force where they had traced the funds to a numbered Grand Cayman account; then within hours of their deposit, it was like watching fireworks; starting as a single cylinder and igniting into thousands of filaments throughout space, and the money was gone. Investigators had traced some funds going to Switzerland, Jerzy, The Isle of Man, Panama, the Philippines and Burma, but then disappearing from those accounts as well. Since returning to the Country neither Kim nor his companion had created a paper trail, everything was in cash, airline tickets, the purchase of the apartment, the car; all utilities remained in the name of the past owners.

Kayn was convinced that the cash was disbursed and safely secured inside multiple safety deposit boxes throughout the world.

Over the last 11 months Kim Chan So had travelled to Japan, Italy, England, United States, Mexico, Switzerland, Philippines, and Canada. His companion was tracked through the United States, Mexico, Switzerland, and Panama, and Canada. The two never visiting the same country at the same time, except for the United States; which was only over 24 hours and then they boarded a flight to Canada.
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If they had wished for better luck it came fast and unexpected; the fire truck sirens echoed through the streets of downtown. From the 12th floor they stood not believing what they were witnessing on the street below, an all-call evacuation had been ordered by Emergency Services for the recreational center and the adjacent apartment building. An explosion at the center had occurred when a contractor mistakenly released chemicals into the ventilation system; the fumes had gone through the air and had now been drawn into the roof top fresh air vents of the apartment building. Everywhere, people were walking, running, some being assisted by medical attendants, but there was a mass exodus onto the streets from the center and the apartment building. Security Agents so anxious to get to the site did not wait for the elevators; they took the stairs, descending 3 at a time. The police had sectioned off a vacant parking lot, adjacent to the evacuated sites for the pedestrian traffic to congregate. As the Agents mingled through the crowds, now in excess of 2,000, not one was reporting visual sightings of their party. They stood at all barricade lines, they mingled, assisting the emergency medical teams where needed, but no sighting of Kim Chan So. After 2 hours the fire department called in an all-clear for the apartment building and the crowds headed towards the entrance of the building. Four Agents had volunteered to hold the four doors open allowing them to take a close up visual scan of each person passing by. It was not until the final ten residents came trickling by did an Agent recognize, not Kim Chan So, but his companion. She was wearing an oversized hat with monstrous sunglasses; as she passed her head remained lowered. With all the confusion no one noticed the Agent follow her into the building, passing the concierge desk without question. He was grateful that the hallways were overflowing with people so he remained undetected as he continued down the hall making sure he remained a good distance from her. The elevators were kept on lock down as the Fire Department had not yet finished the roof top inspections so access to the upper floors was only via the stairwell. At a distance he saw her disappear inside the stairwell and he quickly followed. He passed all others that had decided to ascend the stairs, but he did not see her. He kept climbing, stopping on each floor to check to see if she had stopped, but still no sight of her. He climbed to the 12th, still no site of her. To be safe he continued his climb until he passed the Firemen descending down the stairs. He questioned if anyone had passed them and they confirmed no.

He turned and travelled down to the parking lot, searching for her vehicle, a white 2005 Toyota Matrix. Nothing, it was not there. He notified the other Agents still outside the building. Martin Graham relayed that he wanted the Agent to return to the 12 floor and knock on the apartment door; if asked he was building security or emergency services. The Agent again charged the stairs to the 12th floor, finding the apartment and repeatedly knocked on the door, but no answer. A neighbor came forth and volunteered that the couple in that apartment were so nice, getting her groceries when she was ill and picking up her paper in the lobby each day. The Agent asked if she had spoken with them recently. The lady confirmed that it had always been the woman that spoke, explaining that her husband did not speak English. He continued to knock, but still no answer. The neighbor could not understand where they had gotten to; she just saw them outside the building. She then unknowingly answered everyone's question confirming that, due to allergies her neighbor used the stairwell each day to run in. She was always so amazed that he was able to run up and down the stairs several times a day, without disturbing anyone in the building. Her parting comment, before her apartment door closed was "What wonderful neighbors they are, I hope they don't plan on leaving."

The Agent reported back to Martin Graham and returned to the street.
_______________________________________________

Living at the gateway of the majestic Rockies or while rising above the skyline in the urban maze, Wendi enjoys being a trendsetter. Challenging herself throughout her career in public relations and community development she accepted each challenge as a leader and adventurer. Her voyage continues, documenting her passionate interests in the wilds of nature, to the downtown streets of the City; recognizing the wealth of knowledge within each subject that she partners with.

Wendi's short stories and poems can be found at: http://smile-practicalknowledge.blogspot.com/

Contact Wendi at rgm@davincibb.net

View the original article here

Checkmate - Chapter VI

"GET ME A DOUBLE WHISKY NEAT." It was only 11:30 in the morning, but Kay needed a drink and probably a lot more before this day was over.

Arriving in the overnight mail was an envelope to his attention marked Personal & Confidential with a return address of the Fraser Lake Penitentiary stamped on the face; he knew only one person at that address, Dr. Albert Morton.

Sitting at the bar Kayn thought back many years ago when he first met Albert Morton, a man of honor, of regard and duty who had taken Kayn into his circle; introducing him to affluence, power and authority; an environment Kayn had long considered himself deprived of. Kayn did not like thinking of those moments; he had always conducted his life justifying his actions by the ends justify the means. Albert Morton represents a time in Kayn's life while he was climbing the ladder. He had been successful eliminating all others he had passed on his ascent to the top; all but Albert Morton.

Kayn looked up at the bartender with only an order to "leave the bottle."

Within a few months of meeting Albert he had found a part time job for Kayn in the research department at the University. Working closely together Kayn began to comprehend the extent of Albert's authority; a respected Professor of Political Science, his work at the University anchored at the intersections of law, politics and policy, specializing in crime/punishment and political psychology. His published works had been on display in the Libraries throughout the Universities across the country.

For three years Kayn dedicated each moment he had when not at the Bank, to the University and the Professors. He studied precedents, sat in the lecture halls, delivered coffee, dry-cleaning, returned telephone calls, anything that would give him presence. After a year, Kayn became part of their alumni, trusted and honored with their confidence.

After losing his wife to Alzheimer's, Albert volunteered at homeless shelters in his spare time; giving legal support and advise to many families. He knew not to cross the line, for that fact, he wrote and drew the line for the Volunteer Policy Manual at the Shelters. But, he allowed one woman to cross over.

He had been at the Shelter the day Alyssa walked through the doors. She was different from the others; unfamiliar to the others she remained alone attempting to guard her physical bruising. Albert approached her and asked if she would like a coffee. Alyssa accepted Albert's offer and joined him at his desk. He enjoyed her English accent and as she spoke he tried to imagine the circumstances that took place to force her into this unknown environment. Alyssa was a woman of grace and refinement. Still unaware of the circumstances, Albert had already concluded that the person responsible for this should be jailed.

Using any excuse he visited her at the shelter daily. He was able to review her file confirming that she was not from within the City, but on the outskirts. A police check confirmed that she was neither wanted nor lost; she needed shelter and protection. The interview summary by the staff reported that her bruising and scars were the responsibility of her husband; yet she chose not to press charges. This was a common resolve of most of the women and children that arrived at the shelter, always taking responsibility for their state.

Alyssa immediately started volunteering to assist the staff with all their duties; she was comforting to the children, to their mothers, she helped serve meals and then tidy up after. She was given a position in the infirmary where, at this time, there were four infants in the adjacent nursery. Alyssa adored taking care of the babies; staying with them twenty-four hours a day. At the end of each day Albert stopped in so they could share a coffee and hear of each other's day. The staff looked the other way, thinking that their growing friendship was therapeutic for both of them.

Their friendship grew over the months; they shared companionship.

Alyssa had found a small furnished apartment near the shelter. She began gaining confidence in herself, her future life and her growing partnership with Albert. She never spoke of her past life and Albert chose not to prod. They met for the occasional lunch and dinner at neighborhood eateries, but preferring to sit in the comfort of Alyssa's apartment relishing in each other's daily successes.

Albert was used to forgetting lecture notes and texts at Alyssa's apartment, where he would work into the wee hours of the morning as she slept.

While working in the nursery, she was called to the phone.

"I'm so sorry to bother you Alyssa, but I have forgotten my lecture notes on the kitchen table. Can I send someone to pick them up? I would not bother you with this, but I do need them for this afternoons lecture."

"Of course Albert." I do have to go home at lunch; would it be possible for someone to meet me there?"

"Certainly, I will arrange it. Thank you so much Alyssa. I'll see you later. Should I make dinner reservations?"

"No, let's eat in tonight."

"Perfect"

The door bell rang and Alyssa picked up the envelope containing Albert's notes, unlocked the door and opened it to see Kayn standing there.

"Hello Mother... so you are the captivating secret that has captured our Professor Morton's heart."

Alyssa, stunned at Kayn's presence, clung onto the door frame for support. She had not spoken to Kayn in several years. As he had promised when he left the family ranch, he would not return; forwarding no address to the family. Looking at him now exuding such confidence within himself she could not help but be pleased. Yet looking into his eyes they were no longer the young innocent boy who relished in her stories of England; these eyes were his fathers, full of distrust and hate.

"Hello Kayn, would you like to come in?"

Kayn swallowed the bile that had found its way into his throat, wanting to explode with rage; this woman disgusted him, he could no longer think of her as his Mother. He took a deep breath, trying to regain his focus, but his repulsion was apparent.

"I would prefer not Mother, but I don't have a choice. If you could do your utmost to hasten this moment I would be eternally grateful."

"Kayn, it is so good to see you. I had no idea you were working with Albert. What a wonderful mentor he would be for you."

"Mother, let's not waste time with pretense. Unless I am mistaken you are still a married woman, are you not? How dare you shame me in such a display of wantonness. I am ordering you to stop seeing Albert Morton; if you chose to continue this immorality I will do everything in my power to eradicate you and him."
"Kayn, I left your father months ago. Albert has given me the names of some family Lawyers that I could possibly use to start proceeding for a divorce."

He stood motionless, showing no interest in her reasons.

"Kayn, you left home for similar reasons, why is it okay for you, but not for me; I could not take one more minute of that mans brutality. I had no one to turn to Kayn. Albert is my dear friend; he has shown me understanding and support."

A long silence filled the room. Kayn moved toward Alyssa, removed the envelope from her hand, turned and left the apartment.

Alyssa sat down and wept.

Kayn's rage overtook logic.

How dare she; she is my mother, she has no right, she forced me to live in that environment for many years until I was broken into many pieces, now she wants my sympathy. I swear I will not forgive her and I will take my revenge.

Albert was waiting in the lecture hall when Kayn walked in.

"Everything go okay Kayn?"

Kayn looked at Albert, looking for any indication that he had spoken with Alyssa and knew of their meeting... nothing.

"Everything went fine."

"Good, now that you have met Alyssa, perhaps we can all get together for lunch. I know you will enjoy her Kayn."

"Sure Albert, just give me a date."

Kayn excused himself not being able to continue this faade.

In the coming months he had been successful in turning down several invitations from Albert to join them for lunch.

Alyssa's presence at the University was common place. She would wait for Albert in his office or she would wander the grounds of the University enjoying the interaction with both Professors and students.

Albert continued to work with Kayn showing no knowledge of his relationship with Alyssa.

Their growing relationship infuriated Kayn and as he promised his mother, he set out to seek his revenge.
Kayn's position at the Bank had expanded to a corner office where he was assigned to investment/portfolios.

He created a fictitious financial empire in the name of Dr. Albert Morton; with holdings throughout the world. With the Bank holding trust securities for the University, it allowed Kayn access to their holdings. He started a paper trail in the name of Albert Morton to secure substantial funding for research and travel. He filed fraudulent requisitions, reimbursement vouchers and commenced money transfers to Albert Morton's holdings.

This continued for several months, with the University continuing to support the requisitions from Dr. Morton, authorizing the Bank to supply full reimbursement. With accumulative asset transfers to Dr. Albert Morton now exceeding one million dollars, the audit review committee asked to meet with the University Chancellor.

Albert Morton was called to the Chancellor's office where he was asked for full disclosure. Reviewing the complexity of the charges for all these months, Albert could only offer his full denial of any knowledge of the transfers. He was placed on a leave of absence from the University and told to retain a lawyer.
Within a week his bank accounts, securities, home and vehicle were all frozen.

Albert moved into Alyssa's apartment. He could not understand what was happening to him. Alyssa knew Albert could not have had anything to do with this. Her heart was breaking each day watching Albert finding the strength to defend himself. His associates no longer called giving him support; nor did anyone from the University return his calls. She kept asking Albert to think of who would do such a thing to him. He had no answer. He conducted his life as an example to others, in conduct, in ethics, in morality; he cherished the principles of the law, but at this time his vulnerability gave way to having no defense for himself.

Alyssa had been given notice at the Shelter that they were forced to cut back staff and she would be let go at the end of the week. She understood the real reasons and truly was not disappointed leaving the Shelter. Since all that had conspired with Albert, the environment at the Shelter for her had gone from welcoming to defensive. Almost finishing her last shift she was called to the phone.

"Hello"

"Hello Mother, this is your son."

"What would you like Kayn."

"I am curious, have you come forth with Albert, apprising him of the truth as to who you really are."

"No, he has had too many other urgent matters pressing on him. My situation will wait."

"Oh I think that very unwise Mother. You see what is happening to Albert is anything but disengaged from you."

"Kayn, what are you talking about?"

"Well Mother I am really not at liberty to talk to you about it, in fact, I really don't know the full extent of Albert's demise, but I assure you he has only you to thank for his ruin."

With those words their connection was terminated.

Albert arrived at the apartment after 10:00 that evening, having been with his counsel all day. Alyssa wished there was another time to burden him with this, but did not want to deprive him of this information that may be of help to him.

Albert sat there listening to the trail of events and is subsequent slide into this nightmare, continually trying to separate his personal feelings to those he had taught for all these years, so that he could follow the web of tactical brilliance laid out by Kayn. For a moment he remembered all the afternoons in his office where he and Kayn had entertained themselves with very challenging games of Chess. Looking at the multitude of strategic fibers and avenues set into play by Kayn in the filtering and laundering of all these trust funds, it all took on greater significance.

Albert knowing Kayn in some respects better than Kayn, knew where he would be at 6:30 the next morning and was waiting. He wasted no time apprising Kayn of his newly found knowledge and swore that Kayn would not be successful in his mandate and promised to take immediate steps to have Kayn removed from his employment at the University. But by this time several of the Trustees were the benefactors of sizable grants in favor of their Departments, all of course anonymous but each paper trail lead back to the Bank.

It would take another two years to have Albert's defense heard in a Court of Law. A multitude of arguments were recorded, but very little proof and evidence could be substantiated.

Kayn waited in the balcony that day for the verdict; Guilty. Standing to leave he only turned back once, to see Alyssa weeping, her face lowered into her hands. Kayn left the Court House feeling vindicated of his actions.

Kayn's attention was brought back when the bartender asked if there would be anything else. Kayn shook his head indicating nothing, stood, leaving the money for his tab on the counter. He looked at his watch surprised that it was already 3:00 p.m. He had agreed to meet Irene at her apartment later that afternoon so that they could finalize their trip to Miami. He was not at all thrilled looking forward to spending time with her children, but without tackling and meeting them head on, their dislike for him would only get worse and certainly call an end to his relationship with their mother. He found Irene comfortable, she demanded very little of him and gave so much of herself.

He returned to his office and proceeded to open up his mail.
Albert Morton always a man of few words wrote in impeccable penmanship.

Kayn:
It is with great comfort that I am writing to inform you that I am being released from Fraser Lake in precisely two weeks time. I have completed my full term in the facility earning an honest salary working in the library. In this environment I have had the time to research various arguments and precedents over the past many years of my incarceration.

I have no doubt you comprehend the full understanding of my words to you now.

My biggest regret was the passing of Alyssa. She honored our friendship throughout the years and it will always be my biggest regret not being with her during her last moments.

I personally have no regard for you, but she did, as your Mother.

I look forward to our next encounter Kayn.

Albert Morton

Kayn folded the letter placing it back inside the envelope, rose and opened his wall safe, inserting the document inside and mechanically closing the door. He emerged from his office not addressing his secretary, moved towards the elevator lobby and disappeared behind closed doors. At this moment he could not gather together a semblance of authority.

Living at the gateway of the majestic Rockies or while rising above the skyline in the urban maze, Wendi enjoys being a trendsetter. Challenging herself throughout her career in public relations and community development she accepted each challenge as a leader and adventurer. Her voyage continues, documenting her passionate interests in the wilds of nature, to the downtown streets of the City; recognizing the wealth of knowledge within each subject that she partners with.
Wendi's short stories and poems can be found at: http://smile-practicalknowledge.blogspot.com/

Contact Wendi at rgm@davincibb.net

View the original article here

Ella (Chapter 20)

AFTER TEN YEARS

Three months after graduating the University, Susan tried to find a job at the Village Mayor's Court as a village administrator. It was the village, where Theodore had lived once. She wanted to go along with the social life. She thought that it was the time to explore new adventures and a new chapter of her life. For this purpose, she met James, who was the mayor of the village. He told her that he had started the construction of a school house, a church and some successful farms. He wanted to give a spirit of education to the land. It became a place, where many families had built their homes. He wanted to know the reason that determined her to search a job in a village. She was ready to motivate her decision. James told her that no one else wanted this job. The reason was that it was very poorly paid. She told him that her fiance has been already hired as a Math teacher at their village school and she was searching a job for being with him. James told her that the young people left the village in order to look for good jobs in the town. He advised her to be involved in every aspect of her job. He also told her that the employment of the members of the personnel was based on their qualifications.

"Everyone was hired by staff here and I will never deviate from the rules of our village. Congratulations! You got the job," he said.

"Thank you," Susan told him, smiling and expressing her happiness.

"You will start to work here tomorrow. Your first duty will be to purchase and operate a new fitness center. You will have to pick up the center's lease. You will spend some public money to cover the equipment, too. I want to know your opinion about this," said James.

"It is important to know if the center is too expensive to operate, if there are enough users and if there is sufficient staff," said Susan.

"The center isn't too expensive to operate and there is sufficient staff, but we need more users. Let's talk about the users. Generally, people dislike their appearance. If I had to pick up the real middle age, then I would probably choose the range from twenty five to seventy five years old people. The most of them are truly independent. They have their own responsibilities at twenty five years old, but most of them are dealing with some infirmities at the age of seventy five. The most of people don't get depressed at thirty years old. We can't realistically deal with this kind of depression. I think that they don't have many choices in life. They must accept themselves such as they are. A fitness center can help them a lot," said James.

"I had heard so many opinions about the middle age. I thought I ought to clearly understand them, "said Susan.

"I started to talk to people of all ages, from the youngest person to the oldest one. I asked them if they were happy or not. Slowly, a new definition of middle age began to form in my mind," said James.

"It is a moment in life, when people shift from seeing the future in terms of their potential to the opposite point of view. They see it in terms of their limitations. They fight with their limitations for a while, but they have to accept their resignation," said Susan.

"We must help them," said James, looking at her.

"I like your point of view," said Susan.

"You are a beginner in this branch and this little project will help you," said James.

After ten years of frustration, the doctor told Lisa about her incapability to conceive kids. She was trying everything to get pregnant and she supported a few miscarriages. She became very depressed, frustrated and very jealous. She had those feelings,when she looked at all her friends having children.

"I am really worried about her. She cries all the time," said Laura.

"Lisa definitely has some choices. She can adopt a child, or she can use a gestational carrier. I think it is harsh to say that she can't have children," said Marie.

"She thinks she will never be able to feel a baby growing inside of her," said Amy.

"A miscarriage can be frightening and depressing. It is natural to feel the grief over the loss of a child. Maybe she cannot psychically start again, "said Ella.

"She could start a couple of weeks, after her last bleeding had stopped, but she preferred to wait a longer period. She wanted probably to recover from her emotional trauma. She desperately needs this child, because she wants to save her relationship with Michael," said Nora.

In the kitchen, Lisa and Samantha started to talk, while they were preparing the coffee. In the middle of the discussion, Marie entered to ask about the coffee.

"Do you need help?" Marie asked Samantha.

"Well, of course that I need help." Samantha slowly turned her head and looked at Marie. Her eyes made a silent plea for gratitude. Then, she turned her head to Lisa and said, "What did you say?"

"I remember that I was sixteen years old and one night I met a man. In time, we became lovers. One day, I asked him to come home with me. I told my parents that I want to marry him and they were very surprised. I told them that I was pregnant. I wasn't sure. It was my first pregnancy. I didn't know what to do and my parents told me to go to the clinic. I was scheduled for my first scan and they confirmed my pregnancy. After that, I had a very bad time. My parents didn't accept anything, because I was too young. My man was furious. I ended up taking a tablet to get rid of the baby. Nine hours later, I went to the hospital. I was losing a lot of blood, when the doctor operated me to save my life. After that, seven years I have been trying to be pregnant, but nothing happened. I began to think that I would never be a mother," said Lisa.

"My daughter was born by emergency cesarean section. I was in labor for twenty hours. I felt very disappointed that I hadn't a natural birth. The most important thing was that the baby was healthy. I think that some doctors are a little too dogmatic. Everything they say is based on their experience. When they are not sure about the evolution of the pregnancy, all they can do is to advise their patients to be cautious," said Samantha.

"Usually, the doctors don't tell you the truth. They think that nothing is completely black or white in the medical world. The best they can do is to estimate the evolution of your pregnancy and to let you know about the risks," said Marie.

"The doctors don't know everything and I always say to everyone, who is struggling to conceive a baby - never give up your hope. I don't have children. I had wanted very much to have a child. I have felt useless for a very long time. I thought that maybe God wanted another path for me. I'm a teacher and I love the kids," said Amy.

Lisa brought the cups of coffee and put them on the table.

"By the way, Nora, how do you feel?" Samantha asked her.

"Theodore had some money and I sold the apartment, where I had lived with Michael. We bought a house for our family. We live there with Mary. It's a small house, but I hope to buy another one later. Theodore is the school's program director at a very good school in our town, at present," said Nora.

"Tell me what exactly a school program director is," Lisa wanted to know.

"I don't exactly know, but all he said is that the school program includes the development and the implementation of the master schedule, some staffing assignments, student scheduling and allocation of the resources. Theodore supervises and coordinates all the educational and counseling duties for the students and the staff of the school, "said Nora.

"What about Dan, where is he working now?" Amy asked her.

"Well, he is a doctor, my dear, he works at the hospital," said Nora.

"Tell me about Mary," continued Amy.

"She is a dentist. She will work with me. I must talk to Victor to extend our cabinet. We must build another room and we must turn it into a dental office for Mary. I must extend the house, where the dental cabinet is placed," said Nora.

"Mary is so lucky to marry Dan. You must be so happy for her, "said Amy.

"Dan is a wonderful person, my dear," said Nora.

''Of course, they are both like kids," said Amy.

"Take care, Mary can hear you. She has a very mature thinking," said Nora.

"They are still kids for me," said Amy, sighing.

Mentioning specific words about the hospital can automatically determine some people to think of the typical doctors and nurses. Although working as a doctor requires a specialist training and some qualifications, there are a few occasional opportunities to start as an assistant, allowing for a combination of study with practice. This gives many opportunities to develop the skills and to gain new qualifications, or to increase the salary prospects. There are many training and employment prospects within this work. You need to find the best position.

Dan realized that working in a hospital is not like learning in a college. He was socially challenged. He was locked up for twelve years in the college and the medical school. He had been completely cut out from the real world, until he started to believe that he was truly responsible for the life of the human beings. Starting to work in the hospital, Dan found out that some employees could act like babies and they could like some immature gossips.

"People like to talk about you behind your back. It will get back to you. Do not talk about your coworkers in a bad way. It will get back to them," said Brandon, the director of the hospital.

"There are so many ways to avoid this problem," said Dan

"It's not always a pleasant environment. If you enjoy your work in this hospital, stick with it. If you don't enjoy it, keep working at it. I think the new generation will be better than us," said Brandon.

"This hospital is an interesting place. It doesn't matter who we are, the job is just a job," said Dan

"All we can do here is to treat our patients, to cultivate our good will and to go home to our personal life," said Brandon.

"So, everything I have heard about the hospital environment is true," said Dan.

"Sometimes, the people can be on the verge of a mental breakdown. I think that this characteristic is generally inherent to the human nature and it is specifically caused by the particular problems, "said Brandon.

"We spend more time at work than we spend at home, "said Dan

"Our mission is to care for the patients. In our emergency room, many patients are indigent and they do not have their own doctors," said Brandon.

"I think that we must focus our attention on caring for them, for the purpose of treating them at a lower cost," said Dan.

"The lower cost is necessary, but the patient's health is very important. By the way, we can reduce the length of the hospital stay, we can oversee the discharge planning and we can improve the contact between the hospitals and the home care agencies. This way, we can have enough money for good treatment results," said Brandon.

"Moreover, it is a good idea to create a separate group of some hospital based physicians," said Dan.

"This way, we can avoid the reduction of the important costs by cutting back the money we spend to pay some services. Moreover, this decision can eliminate some concerns about the safety of the patients," said Brandon.

"The pharmacists can lease their space in the building," said Dan.

"You're right. A temporary problem is that the hospital has hired a lot of assistant doctors and the new medical building is scheduled to be finished only in June," said Brandon.

"Until the building is finished, it is going to be a little tight, but I see about one hundred patients each week and those second doctors can help me a lot," said Dan.

"I am very glad that I found someone so energetic like you," said Brandon.

"I am so excited to know this," said Dan, seemingly to himself.

"Excellent," said Brandon, smiling.

After that, Dan went to see his patients.

"Good morning, doctor! Can you spare a few minutes for me?" Paul told him.

"Certainly I can do this! What is the matter with you? "Dan asked him jovially.

"I've caught a cold and I'm coughing."

"Are you running a high temperature?"

"I don't think so."

Dan examined Paul' heart and lungs, but he didn't find any pathological modification. He asked Paul to widely open his mouth and to deeply breathe through the nose. He concluded that there wasn't any radical wrong sign of illness at his patient.

"You have run down a little. Take a complete rest. Get these tablets twice a day. You will be all right in three or four days. What is the matter with you, Samuel?" Dan continued to examine another patient.

"The injections you gave me helped me for a while. Now, my back pain is acting up again and my rib pain is back, "said Samuel.

"I will examine you and I will change your medical prescription," said Dan. He turned his head to Christine and asked, "What is the matter with you?"

"A week ago the surgeon had operated me. After that, I realized that I feel better than before the operation. I had made the right decision. I understood that I was given a second chance; even I had to take more pills. This change was probably one the most difficult situations I had to deal with, "said Christine.

"Let's plainly talk, Lisa, why are you here with me?" Sam asked her, slightly fondling her shoulders.

"I really don't know. I have not been cheating Michael since we began to live together. I knew that I have loved him from the moment I met him. I think I love you now, Sam," said Lisa.

"I love you too," said Sam

"From the moment that my eyes firstly saw you, I have adored you," continued Lisa.

"I will never be able to replace him," said Sam, smiling and turning his body to Lisa.

"You can make me forget my sad moments," said Lisa.

"That's nice," said Sam." You're a good girl." His eyes tried to hide something.

In a special room of a well hidden salmon colored stucco motel, Sam and Lisa have begun to meet since a while. The building had hidden parking spots, mirrored ceilings and tacky sunset murals. It seemed to be a perfect place for their meetings. She chose to be with Sam, because she felt abandoned. Her relationship with Michael failed and she wanted to be in love with someone else, a man who could love her.

She decided to live a double life, by choosing to be with both of them. At the same time, she wanted to have her own secrets. She wanted a man, who could share his thoughts with her and who could love her. She knew that everybody coming in this motel had a story as an excuse, but she loved Michael more than her life and Michael hurt her very deeply.

"I feel that my love story is the saddest story you have ever heard," said Lisa.

Sometimes the new teachers can be more effective than their veteran counterparts. While many veterans lose their passion for teaching over time, the new teachers are eager to be in the profession. Others think that the latest fad in teacher preparation cannot replace the wisdom that veteran educators gained over the years. Tom thought to be innovative. He knew that Mike, who became the new director, needed to hire him because he needed young teaching minds in the school. Tom wanted to be selfless and to have performance at work. He already had some innovative solutions for some of the problems of the school and he knew that he was able to improve the present situation.

"The new teachers tend to be more inventive and innovative with their teaching style.If they are asked to teach demonstrative lessons, they will have better results than the veterans," said Mike.

"Yes, dear, they have a different kind of knowledge,'' said Amy.

"They are taught about the most recent educational research," said Mike.

"They are excited to jump into a new career. On the other hand, the veteran teachers have had many years of successes in trying some strategies that still work very well, "said Amy.

"Teaching is a talent," said Theodore.

"A new teacher with talent can be better than a veteran one. But a veteran teacher with talent is the best, because the talent combined with the experience cannot be beat," said Amy.

"I know that all the teachers are working under the pressure to reach their achievements. I am already prepared for that," said Tom.

"Many of our teachers are interested on promulgating a kind of system by focusing on the symptoms and not on the causes. And this is reason the system fails sometimes," said Mike.

"The cause is that the teachers are allowed to practice their profession by using a revamped educational pedagogy," said Amy.

"Many veteran teachers have to be informed about the new practices and they have to implement current strategies in their lessons," said Theodore.

"The new teachers are knowledgeable about the best research, but sometimes they do not receive any support," said Tom.

"When a veteran teacher does not stay in tune with the latest best practices, a new teacher may be more efficient," said Mike

"The effectiveness cannot be assessed, when there are two opposite points of view. Try to encourage the bad teachers to become better than they are and the good teachers to share what they know with others," said Theodore.

"A good teacher must demonstrate honesty, respect, responsibility, compassion and perseverance," said Tom.

"They spend their time outside the classroom for grading papers and for their professional development and they expect compensation for this kind of work, even they have no substantial education in the fields," said Mike.

"Hopefully, these new teachers can gain experience," said Amy.

"I must go now. Tom is very well prepared to replace me and I am completely sure that he will be a very good Math teacher instead of me," said Theodore.

"How is your family life now?" Amy asked Theodore.

"Well, it is a real family dream. I love my daughter and I enjoy every day seeing her. I am glad that she is so healthy and happy. Nora became a good life partner. I understood that I should sacrifice myself for being with her, when she wanted to work in the town, but I can not turn back the time. In the Bible it is written that the woman should follow her man. She didn't understand those words, when it was necessary," said Theodore.

"You're right," said Amy.

"Tell me about you," said Theodore.

"I like my life. I have a very close relationship with my husband. We value our time we spend together and I can't imagine our life being interrupted. I have nothing to regret," said Amy.

Amy was a very passive weak woman and this was the reason why she took her husband along with her. In the morning, she looked at Mike and said," There are two reasons why I wake up in the morning. Those reasons are my alarm clock and you."

"You look so great this morning. In fact you look great every morning," said Mike, while he was kissing her.

"The rain and the sunshine do not always come together. But you represent the perfect match for me," replied Amy, touching him tenderly.

''It is raining and I don't see the sun, but I know it's there. Sometimes, I cannot see you, but you are always on my mind. You're such a romantic woman, Amy. Only in your arms I feel alive," said Mike and he put his head on her left breast.

Amy was happy to share her thoughts with the aim of encouraging the women, who were in similar circumstances.She was a leader of a local organization for women and she taught them to strongly stay against their adversities. Being a dream maker, Amy had a long history of fighting for women rights. Her relationship with her husband was a very special one. More exactly, it was one of the most complex types of relationships. She was very confident to him. Having no children of their own, they loved each other more than usual.

"The deposit is already paid and it is not complete. I don't have the goods," said Brandon.

"They asked me some surcharge payments this time," said Mark.

"Did you find a way to get out of this?" Michael asked him.

"I'm still looking for a loophole," said Mark.

"Tell the buyer to pay a higher surcharge," said Michael.

"I did it, but the buyer refused to pay. He said we had a deal. They don't have the money. Let the money bubble, live off the kick back, "said Mark.

"Try to sell the goods to another company at a higher price. Take the money and complete another deposit for them," said Brandon.

"This takes time and it will not be easy. They had already asked me how long it will take," said Mark.

".You didn't understand. They may have to wait until they can pay for the expense of the goods," said Michael.

"Okay. How does your relationship with Lisa go?" Brandon asked him.

"Lisa loves me as I love Ella. I understood her and I wanted to give her everything she needed. I don't know why I feel like she is cheating on me," said Michael.

"Maybe she's jealous," said Mark.

"It's more than this and it will not be easier for her, believe me," Michael said with a thoughtful expression on his face.

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Ella (Chapter 19)

THE FUNERALS

Ella has always wanted, for sure, one thing since she was a little girl. She wanted to buy a printing press. The problem was that she didn't have enough money to do this. Ella set out to find a way to do this. Ella had thought she was going to get away for her maternal period for returning to work. Her mother had promised to help her with some money and she wanted to take care of the baby, in order to give her daughter the opportunity to work. She had already published her book. She had been working on it for several years, acquiring a high-powered agent, having some brushes with two major publishers.

She could have tried to go to a small publisher, but she was told that her book was a bigger one, with more aspirations. She also learned that the small publishers could be wiped out by the self-publishing revolution of recent years, which had a major impact on mainstream media. The basic premise was that anyone could become a small publisher. She decided to associate with Laura and Sam.Ella couldn't really know what it meant to be a real publisher until she became a partner.She realized that she had to work hard for this purpose.

"I know that I must work hard for a very long time, in order to get to the point of making a lot of money from publishing books,"said Sam. He needed to learn about his job duty and other life skills, necessary for functioning within the press community.

"Laura, you are an experienced director and you can handle with a lot of money. You have a lot of experience in the publishing industry. It's a great goal because the benefits can be unlimited,"said Ella.

Owning a publishing company can be the ultimate hands-on experience. Each project requires personal attention. Generally, people who own publishing companies are prepared to work long hours and to face significant start-up costs. If they can deal successfully with the pressures of payroll, regulations and problem solving, the rewards can be great.

"I will share up to thirty five percent with a serious project manager, who can handle the whole publishing development. There is much to be discussed and I expect only very professional persons to be involved," said Laura.

"Do you need another manager?" Sam was making a ceaseless effort to understand the problems. The main reason Sam found himself in this situation was that he was not, in fact, prepared to deal with the business as he was going to find it.

"The affair is bigger now than before and the manager I have is not a very good one. In fact, I have thought of Michael.This is why I have invited him here," said Laura.

Michael thought of what she said for a few seconds and, after that, he said,"Make it forty percent and I'm your man,"said Michael.

"I cannot give you forty percent on this project and I know you wouldn't mind having just thirty percent, once this is up and running, but I give you thirty five percent and I am willing to discuss about a higher rate later when the level of sales will reach the target level of profit," said Laura.

"I expect a very good knowledge from your co-workers and the ability to create a system. It is a hard work, but only big rewards are expected. I understand that I'm hired. If thirty five percent is all the manager gets and the manager does one hundred percent of the publishing development, the question I have is what do the other partners do to warrant getting sixty five percent? The ratio of work to gain money seems to be unbalanced, "said Michael.

"I am looking for an exceptional book designer to work for me and this will cost me a lot. I need a high quality for the books and this is very expensive. I'm asking you to accept this proposal for a while. Ella and Sam will take twenty percent together. What I need to say is that I want you all to be true partners. We will start a very profitable non-risky affair. As I said in the beginning, we have to work very hard because, without this, we can lose everything,"said Laura.

"I don't know if a great book designer is the key to success," said Michael.

"The clients want to place their manuscripts in the hands of someone they can trust. A good book designer knows how to make the book to be the best one. It's a very creative process, associated with the production details, for making this book to be complete," said Laura.

"We must develop the business plan," concluded Sam, who was paying attention to everything.

Sam wanted to make money to become rich enough for being co-partner in an affair. For this purpose, he had to impose many restrictions on himself. He had been worth every penny of his salary. It was an unimaginable stress to work for ten years, having two jobs at the same time.There were plenty of ways to get money, including speculation, marriage, inheritance, theft, extortion, fraud, counterfeiting and prospecting, but Sam chose to invest his money in the stock market because it had already gained so much popularity. Because the stocks prices had been on the rise, he thought that he had found a safe way to invest. He believed that his stocks were his tickets to richness. He was right because those stock values didn't stop rising. Sooner than he expected, the stock prices were very high, as a result of the mass investments. The stock prices continued to rise until they reached their highest points. This way, Sam became a rich man.

"It isn't very complicated, but it has to be thorough," said Ella.

"It is very important to know how the business must be developed,'' said Laura.

"Without a few lines of credit and an alternative of start-up funding, no business can survive for long time. You have money, but not enough for your purpose.This is why you must get a loan, until the company gets established," said Daniel.

"How can we get the loan?" Sam became curious.

"You must open a bank account, in the company's name, for paying the bills.You must keep it separate from your investment, checking and savings accounts," said Daniel.

"Laura, it's wonderful to see you both together again," said Ella.

"I love him very much,"said Laura.

Laura had not realized what Daniel wanted from her, until they divorced. Even she was separated from Daniel, she didn't feel completely detached from him. She realized that it was much easier to think of their relationship, while they were living separately. She thought for a moment that living as a single would be better, but she concluded that, on the other side, the life can lose its sense. After this experience, Laura realized that Daniel was all she needed. She realized that she loves him and she cannot love another man. The divorce wasn't very easy. It was a traumatic experience, but their problems seemed almost impossible to be solved without this separation. When Daniel decided to return, Laura tried to be honest with him because she wanted to start a new life. Daniel told her to be mature enough to realize that the main problems in their marriage were caused by her attitude and he asked her to be honest enough to admit that she generated the main conflicts. He told her that he had learned to forgive and forget because he understood that it was easier to forgive and forget the past and look towards a better future, than to live with unsolved problems. Her reconciliation with Daniel was a long and difficult process.

"Covering the equipment is the first priority.We need to invest in equipment liability and workman's compensation," said Laura.

"We need to be shielded against some claims, arising from miscalculation, made during our activity," said Ella.

"We must carefully balance our estimations. We have to bend a little on pricing for a steady work flow," said Laura.

"You must know everything about all the risks.You must know how to plan on addressing damage claims and client disputes. All these will go along with strengthening your position as a contractor,"said Daniel.

"Daniel, you're so sweet when you want to help us. I suppose that no other person really knows that you are here talking with us,"said Ella laughing.

"We must employ new workers,"said Laura.

"How can we recruit them?" Sam was boring asking so many questions.

"We can publish announcements in our newspaper. We can choose online postings and fliers," said Ella.

"The book design can turn the manuscript into a professional quality book,"said Laura.

"Ella, tell me about your money,"said Michael, tenderly looking into her eyes and smiling. "You're more beautiful now than ever."

"My mother gave me some money. She decided to help me to realize the dream of my life."

"Generally, people judge a book by its cover. We will work to create the best book design for the audience. The authors are dependent upon our careful attention to detail in this customized book design.This kind of design needs some book printing skills. I will introduce you to the book design preparations, technical information and design decisions, required for a successful book printing. Even you are not designers, you must know everything about this,"concluded Laura.

Lisa's heart was beating very fast and her head was spinning. Being so powerless, she suddenly felt sick to her stomach.

"What has happened to you?" Samantha asked her.

"Give me five minutes,"she told Samantha, suddenly feeling very weak. "I don't know what's wrong with me."

Being worried, Samantha nodded and went to get Lisa a glass of water. Lisa sat back in a chair, having her eyes closed and shaking her hands. She realized she was having an anxiety attack, probably because she attended the funeral. Moreover, going to those things, she felt brought on waves of panic and nausea.

"I still cannot realize that Jeff is dead," she said.

After a few minutes, six lanky boys appeared at the funeral and three of them clambered down from the hearse. One of them had one of those thermometer style tire gauges with him and he was scrabbling around the hearse on his haunches, testing the tire pressures. After a few minutes, he said,"We have come to take the charge of the body. Tell two of you to lend a hand."

"Of course," said Samantha, "Klaus, be kind and ask David to come here."

The coffin was got out of the room for being placed in the hearse. The people drew back enough to make space for it. No one said anything. The engine panted heavily. The lanky boys looked helpless at the driver. The driver turned to David because he was the only one, who could be addressed to ask him for help.

"The body will be directly taken to the church," said David. He stooped and took hold of one of the handles of the coffin.

The liveryman opened the door of the hearse and prepared to mount the coffin's seat. The hearse began slowly to move for some miles with Jeff's daughter and his family's cars following behind. It was pouring with rain, thundering and lightning. Then, a flash of lightning lit the hearse and a crack of thunder sounded like ten thousand drums, which were beaten by invisible hands. The liveryman took one look at Jeff and his coffin, which was gleaming in the bright light. His face's color was turning into a white shade of pale. The lamps of the town began to shine and their artificial light reached the emptiness of the cloudy sky, wrapping everything in a very strange silence. The hearse backed up to the sidewalk of the church. The gate, which was hanging on two hinges, was opened. Something black had been tied to the front door, before their coming.

"There are old chairs made in the chapel by his family," said Samantha.

"Lisa and Jane are going to serve everyone tea, coffee and food, after the funeral," said Marie.

"His photograph in remembrance, embedded in the gravestone, is a good one," said Mary.

"People like something to spark their memory and the photograph is exactly what they need," said Samantha.

"I think that there has always been a need to say a special last goodbye," said Roxanne.

"Lisa chose a very impressive casket," said Dusty.

The rain stopped falling. The coffin was taken out from the hearse for being placed in the church. The casket was making a grating sound. It was answered by the scream of Jeff's daughter, Jane. She was a woman with flat and angular features. She had a long blond hair, very blue eyes and she was entirely dressed in black. Whilst grieving for her father, Jane found herself not wanting any contact with the people around her, except for those to whom she was closest. The bearers carried the coffin along the narrow boards, while the undertaker ran ahead with the coffin rests. There was a logo, having some black and orange flowers. Some white funeral flowers were placed on the casket. They bore the coffin into the church and set it down there. It was a Catholic church, with cream-colored walls and a dark brown carpet. The building had the sober style of the medieval art. The podium sat at the front of the hall. In front of it, there was a table. The people approached the coffin.

"Condolences, Jane," said Roxanne, embracing her.

"Thank you," said Jane, having tears in her eyes.

John and Victor seemed to be engaged in a conversation without end.

"Lately, the funerals have changed because of the secularization of society," said John.

"In many cases, people find the personalization to be valuable. The personalization changes the way in which the people view the funerals," said Victor.

"Klaus, be kind and take the lid off and let me see his face," wailed Jane between her sobs.

Klaus looked almost beseeching into her face with red and swollen eyes. Her beautiful nose was distended and there were tears on either side of it. Her mouth and eyes drawn down solemnly, awaiting the opening of the coffin. Silently, she began to weep. Feeble steps were heard on the front of the stairs and a tall old man, having a very gray hair and a long gray beard, slowly entered the church. He went up to the coffin and stood, keeping a cross between his hands and being seemingly so embarrassed by Jane's grief. His name was John and he was priest. At this point, she began weeping again and the priest prayed silently for wisdom to help her.

"Sorry to hear about your loss, Jane. Death is the most horrible thing to live through, but we can learn so many things from someone's death and we learn to pass through this," said the priest.

"This life of ours is so short and we have an eternity to spend together. Love is the strongest link in that invisible chain that connects us," said Jane.

Jeff's head, artificially reconstructed, seemed to be even more indifferent in its rigid stillness than in life. No one could see that chaste repose on his face, which we expect to find on the face of any dead person. Death could not wholly relax the tension and smooth the countenance for expressing a perfect peace.

"He was a very good person, but we did nothing to understand him and to help him," said Klaus.

"Poor girl, I think that she suffers very much," remarked David, referring to Jane.

Lisa touched her. Soon, the people started to come to the church from all sides of the town. It looked like it was going to be a long funeral, with more than a dozen of speakers. A little before the start of the funeral, Michael came up to the group. From the moment that Alexander saw him approaching, he felt his reaction inside, which increased as Michael came near him.

"How are you, Michael?" Alexander asked him.

"I am elected as the director of the theater. It is a real honor to serve on this prestigious art as a director," said Michael.

"Congratulation," said Alexander.

"I want to do the best to honor Jeff's memory as a director. I outlined an overview of the further development of the theater in a bid to attract the audiences. I want to promote some playwrights as well as some classical and modern scripts," said Michael.

"I really don't know what happened to him. It is very strange that he didn't seem to commit suicide," said Alexander, seemingly not paying attention to what he said.

The family started to talk about Jeff's life because they wanted the time to pass in waiting the religious service. When the services started, everyone quit talking. Then, a little while later in the service, after a short litany of Psalm twenty three, Jeff's friends wanted to do something special at the service and they sang a liturgical song. They finished the service with one of Jeff's favorite religious songs. Many people commented on how uplifting the service was. It didn't dwell on the sadness, but on the joy of Jeff's life and on the hope and promises of our Lord. After the funeral, Michael came to Lisa and found her sitting on the small bench in front of Jeff' grave.

"How do you feel now, Lisa?" Michael asked her, while he was staying in front of Jeff's grave.

"I loved him," said Lisa.

"The loss of a loved one is, generally, never easy and nobody will ever expect it to be. For you, this funeral passed as a hazy memory. So, don't feel guilty of not remembering the details of this last farewell from now on," said Michael ironically.

"I loved you both at the same time," continued Lisa. "Don't blame me."

"Some day, I will leave you," said Michael. 

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Ella (Chapter 14)

Mary returned home having new ideas

In the morning, Mary came back from her grandmother. Right in front of the building, she saw Michael sleeping in his car, having the door opened. Next to the door, there were two empty bottles of whiskey. Mary passed indifferently and entered the apartment.

"Mom!"

"How's your father?"

"He is well. He works all day long and he takes care of Grandma."

"Did you make new friends there?"

"Yes, the cat, the dog, the cow." Mary said with a laughter.

"I guess you cannot wait to come back."

"Not really. But I had to come back. In three days I must go to the school again."

"Is Monday your first day at school? You have three days of vacation left."

"Yes, I want to go to a club with Susan, Dan and Tom."

"When?"

"Tonight."

"Do you need money?"

"Of course. What a question!"

"I waited for Michael to return from the club to get some cash from the bank for you."

"He is in front of the building, sleeping in his car."

"How can you sit here not telling me anything about this?"

"He was already sleeping when I came home. He had two empty bottles of whiskey. I thought that you two had a fight."

"No, not at all,"said Nora, becoming suddenly pensive."Maybe he forgot the keys of the apartment."

"And he forgot to call, too? Let's think a little, stupid mother! You're an old woman accepting everything."

"Maybe, but you're now certainly a naughty child!"

"I'm going to take a shower. And don't tell me about your stupid life principles, that lead to disaster. I'm already exhausted hearing them again and again. ." "You know," said Mary laughing,"sometimes I understand Michael. He has no fault. He loved you. But you should never leave my dad. He is a great man and you are nothing, believe me!"

Mary called Susan.

"Hello, Susan, I want to know your opinion about what I can wear tonight. Dan suggested jeans and a black shirt, what do you think?" Mary told her.

"Jeans and a black shirt can work, or maybe you can choose a skirt and a tank top. But you look very pretty, so I'm sure you'll be hot in anything,"said Susan.

"I think that wearing jeans with sports shoes is a good idea."

"Why don't you choose to wear dark jeans, a cute shirt and high heels shoes?"

"You're right. I love dancing and clubbing,"said Mary.

"I'm not keen on dancing, but I will come with you," said Susan."I will wear leggings, skirts over jeans, a light cardigan and boots."

"Great. See you tonight."

They payed the entrance fee to the club and they entered the club. The women in those dancing clubs were far more uptight and all the guys were standing or sitting and waiting. They were not specifically waiting for something to happen. Some started a dance with a group, others danced near the group and a few girls were dancing by themselves. Others danced near the edge of the dance floor. The place was already crowded and noisy.
There were some guys, spending their time on the sidelines, drinking alcoholic beverages or juices. They used to cut the rug, when they wanted to dance.

"I have been looking for a jukebox. I want to pay for listening my favorite song,"said Dan.

"Well, if you want to waste you're money, go ahead. I think you feel already paralyzed, when you think of dancing,"said Mary.

"Let's dance. What do you say, Susan?" Tom said.

"I don't know how to dance,"said Susan.

" If you want to have a good time on the dance floor, you don't need any special skills. You don't need to be flexible or musically gifted,"said Dan.

"You can learn to dance by using free video dance lessons. You'll learn how to do dance turns, how to hold your partner and how to put your individual step together to create a beautiful dance. I had to do this because my mother asked me,"said Mary.

"I have no time. My mother is ill and I have to do a lot of work at home,"said Susan.

Dan and Tom bought some organic drinks in four polycarbonate cups.

"Amazing!! I love it!!!" Susan exclaimed.

"Be free, be happy, dance!" Tom said.

"I think it's good to dance. In fact, dancing is a form of exercise made for burning our excess calories," said Mary.

"It seems you enjoyed both the drink and the dance,"said Dan.

"The dance is really overwhelming because it makes you to forget all your problems for some time,"said Tom.

" My mom is against this stuff. Tom had to convince her. I was brought up in a strict religious home and my mother told me about how bad clubs were. First time when I went in a club with Tom all I did was to look around, expecting something bad to happen. But after a few drinks, eating dinner and enjoying the music, I remarked that it really wasn't a bad place at all,"said Susan.

"You seem to have a good moral compass,"said Dan.

" It isn't wrong to dance. And neither is having a drink or two. The problem is when people get drunk and do things that they wouldn't normally do,"said Tom.

"I'm pretty sure everyone looks stupid when dancing. . So just go with the flow and think you're one of the stupids! " Susan said.

"If you look stupid you can't change it. Dancing won't make you look more stupid, if you already look stupid,"said Dan.

"There are three rules for a happy life. More exactly, you can work as you work when you don't need any money, or you can love as you love without being hurt and you can dance as you dance when no one can see you,"said Mary, smiling.

"Get drunk, then who really cares? I bet you'll have fun! Take a look around. Everyone is drunk here. Would you rather worry about looking stupid and not have fun, or about having the time of your life?' Dan said.

" Remember, everyone is in the same boat with you. You must have some confidence in yourself. The most important thing is to have fun. Try not to feel uncomfortable,"said Tom.

"Turn the lights totally off, or blindfold everyone!" Susan exclaimed, smiling this time.

"Just listen to the music and feel the song,"said Mary.

"Just move your feet to the rhythm and stuff nothing too fancy and you'll be fine,"said Dan.

When they got out from the club, it was the middle of the night. They entered the car and Dan drove them home.

"My problem was that I never knew how to tell my parents that I can't
do something, they want me to do. I say yes, because I don't know how to say no,"said Susan.

"I think that we have to be honest with them every time,"said Tom.

"If I can't do what my family wants me to do, I stand up for my right to say so,"said Dan.

"It's not easy saying no to parents, especially when you fear they will get angry with you,"said Mary.

"You must stand your own ground and look out for yourself, because no one else is going to look out for you, if you don't do this,"said Dan. He kissed Mary."You're so beautiful tonight." He told her.

"I sometimes have a hard time saying no to my father. I have to recognize this,"said Tom, kissing Susan.

''Maybe we need to understand our parents in order to accept their opinions. We are so different. Sometimes we can't even understand ourselves,"said Susan.

"There is a difference of generation and there are generation conflicts, but there is not a gap in the sense, that it cannot be bridged," said Tom.

"It is a difference between the life of strength and hope at the beginning of the marriage and the period of hate and despair at the end of the marriage. I grew up, being their child. Now, I can see this difference and I simply cannot listen to their lessons, any longer. They became less credible in time,"said Dan.

"They are apparently not responsible for what I am doing, but in fact, they are very much responsible,"said Mary.

"The conflicts are not inherently negative, but these conflicts must not be violently expressed,"said Dan, paying attention to the road.

"When a child sees his father coming home being drunk and angry, screaming at his mother and he watches his mother pleasing him and placating his father's behavior, he thinks that violence gets results. Moreover, he develops his own ideas about what makes a man to be a real one,"said Susan.

"You're right. A child, growing up in a violent home, is likely to have little self-esteem,"said Dan, kissing Mary again."I love you."He said.

"Why are all these happening?They should love each other,"said Susan.

"Why? He wants to gain and maintain a total control over his woman. An abuser doesn't play fair ever,"said Dan.

"They use the intimidation to exacerbate the fear, the guilt and the shame inside their women. They want to wear them down and keep them under their thumb,"said Tom.

"Try to imagine your father being an alcoholic, beating you without any reason. After that, imagine him making an excuse for his behavior. He can say that he was drunk or he cannot remember anything. Try to imagine this," said Susan. Tom kissed Susan.

"Why are humans so twisted? The humanity has been unchanged throughout the history. The atrocities have always been specific to the human race. The religions preach about being peaceful are annihilated by the opposite. What can make the human act to be so contradictory? I really don't know,"said Dan.

"It's a big question, isn't it? Tom laughed.

When Dan stopped his car in front of Mary's house, he kissed her passionately and told her,

"See you tomorrow, my little squirrel."

She kissed him saying,

"I already miss you."

"Bye."

Mary entered the house. She wanted to enter the kitchen to drink some water.

"Where have you been? " Michael asked her.

"I think that my mom has already told you. In fact, why do you care about what I do? " Mary replied with another question.

"Because clubs close at midnight and it's three a. m." Michael told her.

"I was in a very pleasant place,"said Mary, having a conspicuous and somewhat sarcastic smile.

He sat on the couch in the living room, in total darkness. His eyes glistened and he had a very strange expression.

"Where is my mom?' Mary asked him.

"She 's upstairs. She's sleeping,"said Michael.

He came towards her and touched her back slightly. He began to play with her hair.

"Are you my very good little girl? " Michael asked her.

Mary laughed loudly.

"Do you still think I am a little girl?'

"Aren't you?''He continued to play with her hair.

She became suddenly very confused. She turned to him and said,

"I must go to sleep. I'm very tired."

He took two glasses of whiskey from the table.

"Drink it! You will sleep better."

"I drank at the club. Thank you."

Mary entered the bedroom and locked the door.

"You look beautiful this night. . Next time, when you will come home at this hour, you will find the door closed."He said, being beyond her door.

"Okay. I will talk with my mom," said Mary.

''She's like her mother,"said Michael for himself, going to bed.

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