Second Chance:

[Grand58742]

CHAPTER 52




“This weekend was awesome. Thanks for inviting me along,” said Erica as they exited the rafts at the whitewater rafting company near Erwin.

“No problem,” said Charlie. “Cindy? Did you enjoy the time as well?”

“I think awesome is a good word to use,” said Cindy as she started unloading the rafts. The vehicles were waiting nearby after one of the deputies moved them during the trip from the house.

“Let’s get everything unloaded,” said Charlie as he saw a cruiser from the department roll up. A deputy came over and spoke with Mitch for several minutes before they both headed over to Charlie.

“Something happened while we were gone,” said Mitch.

“What?” asked Charlie.

“Anderson is waiting for a call from me and has since Friday,” said Mitch as he got out his cell phone and turned it back on. He called up Anderson’s number and got him on the line after several rings. “It’s Mitch.”

“Mitch, how was your trip?” asked Anderson.

“Relaxing,” said Mitch. “And your weekend?”

“About the same,” said Anderson and continued without any further small talk. “The story is about to break in the news.”

“The Cindy story?” asked Mitch.

“Apparently a reporter from Wolf News picked up on the story and is running with it,” said Anderson.

“And how is it going to come out?” asked Mitch.

“On our side the Attorney General thinks. He said the reporter has been completely unbiased so far,” said Anderson.

“And he trusts a big time reporter?” asked Mitch.

“He checked into her work and found she would be sympathetic to the cause,” said Anderson.

“Okay, when?” asked Mitch.

“Probably Wednesday or Thursday. But that’s not the reason I called,” said Anderson.

“The reporter wants an interview with Cindy,” said Mitch.

“She would like to have her on record, but will run the story no matter what,” said Anderson.

“I can’t make that call and pretty much neither can Charlie. It’ll be up to Cindy,” said Mitch.

“The reporter brought up a good point. It’s all about our side of the story,” said Anderson. “You put a teenage girl on camera crying about how she was forced into marriage and has had her civil rights stripped away, it tends to get people on our side. And we need the public opinion to make this right.”

“Again, it’s up to Cindy,” said Mitch.

“Can you talk to her and Charlie to find out if she will?” asked Anderson.

“I will, and I’ll get back to you,” said Mitch as he ended the call. “Charlie, we need to talk.”

“What’s going on?” asked Charlie.

“Apparently the story is about to break in the news. The reporter wants an interview with Cindy,” said Mitch.

“I’m inclined to say no,” said Charlie.

“But he does bring up a good point,” said Mitch as he explained about public opinion.

“I’ll give you that,” said Charlie. “But it is her decision to make.”

“Want to ask her?” asked Mitch.

“Yeah, once we get back home and get a shower,” said Charlie. “I’ll give you a call later and let you know.”

“Okay, the reporter is in Nashville for the moment but has to leave by Tuesday night, Wednesday morning at the latest,” said Mitch.

“I’ll let you know in a couple of hours,” said Charlie as he grabbed at another bag and loaded it into his truck. As he loaded the gear into the bed of the truck, the concern must have showed on his face.

“Something wrong?” asked Erica.

“Hmm? Nothing,” said Charlie.

“Something’s going on behind those pretty blue eyes,” said Erica.

“I’ll explain later,” said Charlie as he finished loading the gear. After everything was set, they headed back to the farm where the process was repeated although the gear was kept outside until it could be shaken down for spiders and other bugs that might have hitched a ride. Erica and Cindy claimed dibs on the shower first as Charlie set to getting the items dumped and put inside. He moved the laundry onto the back porch and the cooking gear into the kitchen so it would have one last washing before being put into storage again. Erica came back downstairs still drying off her long hair and cornered Charlie in the kitchen.

“So what’s going on?” she asked. Charlie took several minutes to explain to her about the conversation with Mitch. After he finished, she took in what he said and replied. “I think it’s a great idea to get her voice on record.”

“I’m just worried about her security,” said Charlie.

“So don’t let them take pictures around here,” said Erica.

“Or of her. Someone recognizes her face on TV and they will blab about it to the press,” said Charlie.

“Don’t you think that’s her decision to make?” asked Erica.

“It is, but I’m worried about her safety,” said Charlie.

“As am I, but she has to make this decision on her own. Yes, we should be there to help guide her, but she alone has to make the decision to stand up for what’s right and bring those responsible for her situation to justice,” said Erica.

“You’re pretty smart, you know that?” asked Charlie after a moment of thinking about what she said.

“Doctors aren’t exactly dim witted people,” she chuckled.

“So are you going to encourage her to go on camera and talk?” asked Charlie.

“At least have her voice heard so they won’t think this is a complete prank,” said Erica. “I’m like you; I worry about her father and that bunch tracking her down here.”

“But you’re right, they will need some sort of proof she is here,” said Charlie.

“Maybe like what they do with those spies. You know, in the shadows and all?” asked Erica.

“Kind of theatrical don’t you think?” asked Charlie, thinking of how sinister it always seemed.

“But keeps her safe,” said Erica.

“And possibly in a neutral location,” said Charlie.

“Maybe, maybe not. You might have to show this place off to more social workers before it’s all said and done,” said Erica.

“Yeah, you’re right,” he said. “Let’s talk about it with her over dinner.”

“Who’s cooking tonight? You or me?” asked Erica.

“Depends on what you want,” said Charlie.

“Nothing that tastes like it was made over a fire,” she laughed.

“Okay, simple I can do,” laughed Charlie in return and went through the house to finish unloading the gar and storing it away. Eventually Cindy bounced back downstairs and started attacking the dishes to clean and put away while Charlie concentrated on other things. Erica started the laundry after a second look for bugs and got everything separated into the proper piles. While they all enjoyed nature over the past few days, they also enjoyed the creature comforts of home even more.

Eventually it came time for supper and Charlie fixed up something simple. They sat down and started eating before Charlie broke the news.

“Mitch says a reporter has your story,” said Charlie.

“Is that a good thing?” asked Cindy after a moment to reflect on that news.

“He said Agent Anderson seems to think so,” said Charlie.

“Will this help my family?” asked Cindy.

“It should. This kind of thing gets press attention and generally you start seeing results,” said Erica.

“But what if it doesn’t?” asked Cindy.

“It will, remember you have the entire State backing you, including the Governor,” said Charlie.

“I’m just afraid they’ll make me go back and nothing will change,” said Cindy.

“I don’t think the State will let you go until everyone is happy with the outcome, including you,” said Charlie.

“Okay, so what do I need to do?” asked Cindy.

“Well, the reporter wants to do an interview with you,” said Erica. “And we think you should do one.”

“You think I should?” asked Cindy.

“It will help you get your concerns on record,” said Charlie.

“But will I be protected?” asked Cindy.

“That’s the tricky part,” said Erica. “I suggested you do the interview, but they black out your face.”

“Kind of sinister,” she laughed nervously.

“But for your protection,” said Charlie.

“And yours,” said Cindy. “I’ve been reading up about the shari’a law and the honor killings. What I did makes you a target as well.”

“I’ll be fine, along with Erica,” said Charlie.

“But I’m afraid I put you two in danger,” said Cindy. “And by doing an interview will make it even more.”

“I can protect myself,” said Charlie.

“And Erica?” asked Cindy.

“She wanted to learn to shoot. She’s a feisty one and she’ll be fine as well,” said Charlie.

“I don’t know,” said Cindy, thinking about the situation.

“We both think it would be in your best interests to do so. If the public sees how this affected you, it could very well change the way they think about it. You put a face on the story and they tend to change the perception of how it unfolds,” said Charlie.

“I’ll have to think about it. Do I need to make a decision right now?” asked Cindy.

“No, you can think about it. But the reporter will file the story soon,” said Charlie.

“I promise to have an answer by the morning,” said Cindy.

“Now that that’s settled, when are you going to teach me to shoot?” asked Erica.

“I thought you knew how,” said Charlie.

“I learned shotgun a long time ago,” said Erica. “But not pistol or rifle.”

“Well, now is the time to learn I suppose,” said Charlie. “Tomorrow afternoon maybe?”

“If I’m not busy, which I suspect I’ll be,” said Erica. “I figure after being out of the office for that long, everyone in Erwin will be in there about some sort of injury.”

“We’ll have to figure out what you’re comfortable with and go from there,” said Charlie.

“And me too?” asked Cindy.

“And you as well,” said Charlie. “And a concealed permit for you.”

“I thought doctors couldn’t shoot people. Doesn’t that violate the hippopotamus oath?” asked Cindy.

“The Hippocratic Oath?” asked Erica with a laugh.

“Yeah, that one,” said Cindy with a grin.

“Do no harm, so it is said, is actually not in the Hippocratic Oath anywhere. It’s actually comes from primum non nocere which means it’s better to do nothing rather than something which might harm a patient. Kind of a vague way of saying self defense is hurting a potential patient more than doing nothing,” said Erica.

“So it does or doesn’t violate the Oath?” asked Cindy.

“It’s a fine line and a moral obligation to not harm a patient by doing something more than you would by doing nothing. But it’s more of a guideline rather than a rule,” said Erica.

“So you can or can’t shoot someone?” asked Cindy.

“I can, provided they were going to harm me,” said Erica.

“I didn’t know that,” said Charlie.

“It’s a moral debate within the medicine field. I would be seen as a pariah by some of my colleagues, but I’d rather be alive as a pariah than a dead doctor who stood on moral principle,” said Erica.

“Interesting way of looking at it,” said Charlie.

“So yes, as long as I’m not completely slammed tomorrow, I’ll start tomorrow,” said Erica.

“Have to get you something you can conceal,” said Charlie thoughtfully.

“Nothing matching yours?” asked Erica with a grin.

“With your build, you would have a hard time concealing a 1911,” he laughed.

“Am I to take that as a compliment?” asked Erica.

“Absolutely,” said Charlie. “It’s quite the dazzling build.”

“And me too?” asked Cindy.

“I can’t legally,” said Charlie. “Not until you are older that is. But you can handle them under adult supervision and for protection.”

“Do I get to come along as well?” asked Cindy.

“Of course,” said Charlie. “Maybe even more you up in caliber.”

“Cool!” exclaimed Cindy.

And the supper conversation continued into the evening. Dishes were washed and the three retired to the living room to watch a movie on TV. As the night fell, they headed back to the comfortable beds they had been missing and fell fast asleep.

********************

“I am sorry for the loss of your brother,” said the mother of Daniel Grant’s wife. The funeral services were complete and the burial had been done that morning.

“He was a good man,” said Mohammed Hassan. “And Stella was a good woman as well.”

“The investigation didn’t turn up anything. Just an accident,” said the father, who still thought there was something wrong with the situation.

“I was an engineer once, I know it happens, but not often,” said Hassan.

“And what do you do now?” asked the father.

“I am an engineer for a community in upstate New York,” said Hassan.

“Are you a Muslim?” asked the mother.

“Yes, converted over a few years ago,” said Hassan.

“I was wondering since your wife had her veil on and all,” said the mother.

“It is our custom,” said Hassan and switched the subject. “Are you from California?”

“Yes, born and raised,” said the father. “And you?”

“Yes, originally. But we’ve moved around since that time,” said Hassan.

“The family didn’t leave a will behind,” said the father.

“I thought Daniel had made one some years ago,” said Hassan.

“Not that we could find. We were hoping you could shed some light on that,” said the father.

“No, he never sent me a copy. Perhaps it was something he planned to do, but never got around to it. Daniel was always forgetting little things like that,” said Hassan with a brief smile.

“It seems like a bad time for this, but what about the disposition of their accounts?” asked the father.

“You had something in mind?” asked Hassan.

“Daniel was heavily involved in the Boy Scouts. It would be fitting to see their accounts donated to that charity,” said the father.

“I have no objection to that,” said Hassan. “What do I need to do?”

“How long are you staying?” asked the father.

“Through tomorrow, but I can extend my visit if needs be,” said Hassan.

“We can talk to our lawyer tomorrow,” said the father. “And draft up the appropriate paperwork.”

“That will be fine,” said Hassan and looked around. He had a suspicion he had been followed by the community in New York, but hadn’t seen anyone out of place. Since their estrangement some years before, Hassan had no idea who Daniel’s friends were and couldn’t readily identify anyone who looked out of place. But he still had the feeling he was being watched.

“We can call you tomorrow. But tonight, would you care to be our guest for dinner?” asked the mother.

“My family and I were planning on having a private dinner where we could mourn together,” said Hassan.

“I understand,” said the mother. “But we are also your family.”

“I mean no offense, just that I prefer to be alone with my direct family while I mourn the loss of my brother,” said Hassan.

“We understand,” said the father. “If you need anything more, please let us know.”

“Thank you,” said Hassan and stared at the ground where his brother was laid to rest. He said a small prayer to Allah and hoped He would be understanding when dealing with his brother since he had not accepted Mohammed as the one true prophet. And even though they disagreed with the choice in religions, Hassan still hoped Allah would be merciful to Daniel and his family since they were good people overall.

As he departed the gravesite, he wondered what path his own life was on and wondered what plans Allah had in store for him. He wondered whether or not his family would ever be back together again and if the current struggle would work in his favor. He still felt like something was wrong with the untimely death of his brother, but knew these things happened from time to time. Daniel had just been unlucky in the fact the gas line had destroyed his house. Sometimes Allah worked in mysterious ways and for some reason he allowed it to happen.

********************

At another mourning family on the other end of the country, Melinda Lyons was currently going through the garage getting some of Kurt’s old things organized. She had promised his brother some of his workshop tools and was currently figuring out what was still needed around the house and what could be given away. If Kurt had an organizing system in the garage, he certainly kept it in his head. As she moved the rolling toolbox towards the door, a bag fell from behind onto the floor. Curious as to why Kurt would put it there, she stopped what she was doing and picked it up. It was fairly bulky she noticed as she put it on top of the toolbox and unzipped the top zipper. Her eyes just about bulged out of her head when she noticed the contents of cash bundled up. But she also noticed a letter on top with her name on it.

Ignoring the cash for the moment, she opened the sealed envelope and started reading words from beyond the grave. She immediately recognized the handwriting as her husband’s since he had atrocious handwriting and rarely could be deciphered by anyone except a family member. And as she read, a frown grew on her face and he hadn’t needed to resort to bribery to make ends meet. She had known they were in financial trouble, but they always managed to get by with what they had. But she also realized her husband was doing it for the family. While it wasn’t the greatest of principles, at least he had done it with them on his mind instead of pure greed.

But as she continued reading, another thought struck her. She had often thought his untimely death was more than a coincidence and since then, the robber had not struck again. The police still didn’t have any leads and the case was going cold. She knew he had been hard at work on something before he died, but didn’t know what exactly. But it had been troubling to him since she had noticed something was weighing heavily on his mind after he was complete. As she finished the letter, she reread it two more times to make sure she had all her information correct. Again, she wasn’t sure of why, but even he suspected possible foul play in the aftermath. This was something for the police to investigate, but didn’t want to see Kurt’s good name drug through the mud for his first (she hoped) case of bribery. She needed more concrete evidence of wrongdoing before going to the police. As she sat with the bag open, she started to wonder how exactly she would get evidence pointing to wrongdoing on whatever case he worked that got him into trouble.

She started wondering who could help her and came upon the idea of getting in touch with old friends. Certainly he could help, she thought as she remembered he was in the State as well. Zipping the bag back up and folding the letter, she went into the house to see if she had his number still. But some things were better off being done in person rather than over a phone. She would contact him and see if he could find the time in his schedule to meet her.

********************

“Hello?” asked Susan Brooks as she saw the number on her cell phone was listed as “private.”

“Hello, is this Susan Brooks?” asked the voice on the other end.

“Yes, who is this?” asked Susan.

“I understand you are running a story for the news about a teenage girl who was being forced into marriage in New York,” said the voice.

“I cannot comment on stories until they are run,” said Susan. “Who is this please?”

“And I also understand you are having a hard time with getting the girl in question to talk,” said the voice.

“Again, I don’t know who your sources are, but I cannot comment on stories before they are published,” said Susan.

“I can help with your story,” said the voice.

“And how?” asked Susan.

“I’m Cindy Grant and I’d like to do an interview,” said Cindy from the other end, reaching her decision.

[overbore]

Well written again, Grand. As it happens I am a speed reader and just finished FULL BLACK by Brad Thor; your writings are easier to read and have more suspense. Keep it up!

overbore

[cookie4u1]

This story just seems to get better and better. Thanks..mark

[saeb]

Excellent, thank you for your time.

[Ozarks Lady]

I'm going to really have to learn to take a few breaths while reading this story. ;-)

Thanks Grand.

[jbriii]

Thanks Grand, I'm glad I found this site to keep up with the story.

[Urban Survivalist]

I'm afraid I'd have to cut quite a bit off the story to get it to "publishing size." Yes, there is some fat in there (this latest camping scene is "fat" in the story) but I'm not sure I could get it to the five hundred or so pages for an initial publishing.

From what I understand, the going page count is around five hundred or so for a first time publisher. There are exceptions, but most of the big houses don't want to take a chance on a huge novel as a first work.

This is what I did. Go to Createspace and publish your book yourself total cost was $35 then it gets on Amazon and Barnes dot coms then take your book and send the book to publishers while your making a little coin already. I sent mine in to a dozen publishers and heard nothing but sent in the completed book and have been getting several responces. Just a thought but I have heard that self help books (like I wrote) are the easiest to market to publishers but it is worth a try. By getting it on Amazon your going to make more money than if it is stored on your computer. Also if it is to big go Twilight style and make it in to a couple books get your reader hooked and now they have to buy the next book. Just a thought

[Firestorm]

Thanks Grand
am loving this story. Hope you had a great leave.
will enjoy the story whenever you get a chance to post.
like the rest of the forum as well.
FAT IS GOOD


FS

[PJaster]

Getting caught up in the reading....

Once more, may I say thank you for the directional signal finder for this thread: AKA the E Mail!!!!!!

I have been burning the candle on both ends, and the wax in the middle is mighty warm!

I missed 51 continued, somehow, and that was a major jump for me, entering Chapter 52.... luckily I Navigate fairly well.... Read Continued.

It was still a hard transition, but Erica, Charlie, Cindy .... Mitch, even the AG of TN are starting to be like family, and I want ~all~ the info, Love your replies about publishing this.... Saga's need depth, BOOK dealers want Brief, but complete....

That is like juggling a Tennis Ball, and a Bowling Ball.... it ~can be done~ but who wants to do it!

Thanks for the New Chapter.... and I hope OK is getting used to your presence, Wie Geht's?

in HIM,

[hawkhunter]

Grand this is as good as it gets and thanks for the link to this site. I thought I would never get to finish this story or Lucky. Again thanks for the story and the link

[snarlbuckle]

Thanks for the great read Grand. Honestly, I think this reads more like a TV series than a book. The average novel would likely cut out much of the time spent on Charlie's farm in favor of more concise plot development, where a TV series would often be content spending time with the characters.

The story so far could use a bit of editing, but your plot line and character development are superb. Keep up the good work. If it is any indication, I was hooked on this story all week and I even passed up the latest Game of Thrones novel to read this.

[kihnspiracy]

Grand, excellent story. I am so glad i found this site. Keep up the good work.

[Grand58742]

CHAPTER 53



“Radical Islamic sects practicing forced arranged weddings on under aged girls? One might think to find this in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime, but we find a story developing in right here in Hometown, America along those same lines. Susan Brooks is reporting from Nashville Tennessee where the story is unfolding of Cindy Grant and her request for freedom from religious extremists,” said the anchor from Wolf News as the camera cut away. It was prime time on the network and the story had already been hinted at for several days.

The camera cut away to find Susan Brooks standing in front of the Governor’s mansion in Nashville. They had extended all courtesies to the visiting reporter and she appreciated the fact they had buttered her up as they had. She was about to break the biggest story of her life and her father had called in a lot of markers to ensure she kept the credit for the story and didn’t give it up to one of the national level reporters in the network. Everything had been pre-recorded, but the nervousness of breaking such a large story showed slightly.

“At a remote town in Tennessee, we have a breaking story about a young girl. A bright teenager who should be thinking about finishing high school and which college to start. A girl who should be thinking about prom, homecoming, cheerleader tryouts or trying out for a sports team. But we find a young girl whose life has been turned upside down by religious fanaticism and a violation of her civil rights.”

“Cindy Grant, age sixteen and originally from New York State has aspirations and goals for her future. She has received the highest marks in school, loves to run and enjoys being in the outdoors. She voluntarily does chores without question and loves each day of life as it comes along. Cindy is, in the opinion of many, the ideal teenage daughter.”

“But her dreams have been put on hold for the moment. On hold because she had to run away from the situation she was in. While Cindy should be enjoying her youth and starting to learn about life in careful doses, she has learned a harsh lesson about radical Islam firsthand.”

“Cindy is a victim,” said the Governor of Tennessee in an interview. “A victim of forced arranged marriages, abuse and the practice of radical Islam.”

The camera cut away and back to Brooks in front of the mansion. “At an undisclosed location in Tennessee, Cindy is staying with a foster family while she attempts to find justice. She ran away from her family in New York after being informed she would be wed to a man thirty years her senior and the Imam of a local Muslim congregation by her father. Additionally, she claimed abuse on his part as well as other adult members of the community in question. On the eve of prior to the wedding day, she ran away and ended up in Tennessee where she was found by local law enforcement,” said Brooks, looking into the camera.

“…‘it is an unusual case’ says a representative of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations,” Brooks’ voice was heard and the accompanying text on the screen was seen. “But one that was substantiated. We found evidence of physical abuse as well as emotional trauma. Additionally, with the recording brought out by Cindy, we see possible corruption within certain New York Agencies…”

“Additionally, Cindy went to the authorities in New York State, but did not find resolution to her situation,” said Brooks as the camera cut back to her. “Originally, Tennessee agreed to turn her back over to the proper New York authorities, but found they did not plan to finish the investigation. She was escorted by members of the Tennessee State Patrol back to New York and handed over to their child services. But after that happened, chilling details unfolded about the lack of concern on the part of some State officials.”

“…not everything my office receives needs to be investigated and any further complaints from you just might fall on deaf ears…” said the voice of Steven Waters with the accompanying text on the screen.

“This was the quote from the New York Child Services Agent assigned to investigate the complaint of abuse and the forced marriage of Cindy. Additionally, the Agent in charge of the investigation had further remarks on her situation,” said Brooks. The screen went back to the text screen with the dialog of Cindy and Steven Waters.

“So you condone abuse on a minor?” her voice was heard on the recorded conversation.

“No, I just said I could understand if someone wanted to smack you in your rude little mouth. I’ve only known you for less than ten minutes and I want to smack you already…” answered the voice of Steven Waters.

“Furthermore, Cindy went to the local police, but did not find any resolution to her problems either,” said Brooks.

“I went to the police in the local town. But they were members of the congregation as well and ignored my problem,” said Cindy from the shadows, very theatrically looking. But it was for her safety and the only way she would do the interview at the insistence of Charlie and Erica.

“What happened after you went to the police?” asked Brooks.

“I was abused for reporting the incident,” said Cindy with a crack in her voice.

“Abused how?” asked Brooks, with sympathy.

“I was beaten by my father and some of his friends,” said Cindy on the verge of tears in remembering the situation. “And told I was still going to be married to the Imam.”

“According to Cindy, who is known as Haseena Hassan to her father and the community in New York, the practice of physical abuse is not only common, but expected,” said Brooks as the camera cut away once again. The next shot showed another of the interviews she had conducted in the background for the story.

“In some sects of Islam, especially the more radical kind, one expects to see this type of behavior,” said Rindo Chelki in an interview as his name and community position came across the bottom of the screen.

“But is it normal?” asked Brooks.

“No, most moderate Muslims do not believe in this,” said Rindo.

“But why is it happening?” asked Brooks.

“Some believe in the shari’a. It is expected for women to be subservient in that particular sect. This is also where the practice of arranged weddings comes from,” said Rindo.

“But not in America?” asked Brooks.

“Typically no, but there are dangerous ones out there that practice the old ways of doing business. They cannot see the ways of old are not always right,” said Rindo.

“I have a recording I’d like you to listen to. Can you explain the significance of this?” asked Brooks as the recording played once again.

“You should have studied the shari’a law on your little vacation. If you have violated the shari’a, you know what will happen to you,” said the voice of Mohammed Hassan.

“This probably means if she has sexual relations out of wedlock, she will be killed under the shari’a law,” said Rindo.

“Her father was stating she would be killed for not being a virgin?” asked Brooks.

“This is what the shari’a states,” said Rindo.

“And this practice is acceptable?” asked Brooks.

“Not only accepted, but commonplace and expected in certain parts of the world,” said Rindo.

“But not in America?” asked Brooks.

“There are those who believe the shari’a trumps the laws of any nation, even in the United States,” said Rindo. “But murdering anyone is illegal and to believe the shari’a is above the laws of a nation is madness.”

“But here in Tennessee, Cindy found those who would help. After contacting Tennessee Law Enforcement agencies a second time and bringing the recording with her, an investigation was started and concluded the situation was as she described. In a recorded conversation, her father, Mohammed Hassan, was heard confirming the arranged wedding as well as the possible threat of being killed for violating the Islamic shari’a law,” said Brooks as the shot cut away to another text screen.

“You are going to force me to get married to that man thirty years older than I am? The Imam?” asked the voice of Cindy.

“Yes, you will do your duty for this family and the community. Allah decrees it,” said the voice of Hassan.

“The practice of forced arranged weddings is a complete violation of her civil rights as well as being immoral,” said the Attorney General of Tennessee. “Additionally, the abuse suffered by Cindy is completely out of line and criminal in nature. We have concluded the home environment in New York is detrimental to her continued growth, both emotionally and physically.”

“And she is better off in Tennessee?” asked Brooks.

“We have investigated the foster home she is currently residing in and have concluded it meets or exceeds the standards put forth in both Tennessee regulations as well as those in New York State,” said the Attorney General. “Additionally, we will ensure justice is done before releasing her back to the proper authorities in New York. We tried once already, but the fact she was being sent directly back into an abusive environment meant we had to take more drastic actions.”

“Couldn’t some see this as kidnapping?” asked Brooks.

“Cindy came into our State on her own free will and asked for our help. And she can choose to leave on her own free will as well,” said the Attorney General. “She has chosen to stay until this matter resolves itself.”

“Even though she is a minor and cannot make those sorts of decisions for herself yet?” asked Brooks.

“We felt it was more dangerous to turn her back over to New York in light of the recording she brought out and the fact they did not take her seriously the first time around. The State of Tennessee felt it prudent to ensure her well being was being taken seriously before turning her back over to the New York authorities a second time,” said the Attorney General.

“Is what you are doing legal?” asked Brooks.

“We have researched it and found in some cases it is better for the child in danger to stay where they are until the situation resolves itself. While it is unusual for it to be over Sate lines, this is no different than say a runaway child being kept by one State while another makes arrangements for their custody transfer. This is the exact case with Cindy and we will wait for resolution on the matter from New York,” said the Attorney General.

“But resolution is not forthcoming. According to Tennessee State officials, New York has not agreed to do another investigation into both the allegations of Cindy Grant, nor the possible corruption in their agencies,” said Brooks as the screen went back to the interview with the Governor.

“Why is Tennessee getting involved in a matter which should be handled by New York?” asked Susan Brooks.

“Tennessee State Law Enforcement and Family Services got involved when Cindy came to us requesting help. She wasn’t getting help in New York and you heard the transcripts of the conversation she had with a New York Child Agency agent. The fact New York State has done nothing to improve the situation means we had to step up and help her. We contacted their government agencies for resolution and were stonewalled from the start. They either ignored our requests or were hoping we would give in to their pressure. The State of Tennessee cannot ignore the problems of Cindy Grant and will not stop until those responsible for the attempted sexual deviancy and abuse are brought to justice and the corruption in their child services is smashed,” said the Governor of Tennessee.

“Are you saying there is widespread corruption in their State agencies?” asked Brooks.

“No, I’m saying they ignored a clear cut case of corruption when we presented evidence to them,” said the Governor.

“And why is that?” asked Brooks.

“Better to ask that of New York,” said the Governor as the camera cut away and went back to a solo Brooks.

“But New York has denied this news agency the opportunity to answer these questions. Wolf News contacted the New York Governor as well as the Attorney General, but were refused interviews each time and had ‘no comment’ on the matter,” said Brooks. “Cindy agreed to do an interview with me, but asked to remain concealed from public view as she feels there is danger to her and the family she is staying with.”

“I’d like to go back to my family and live a normal life. But I don’t want to be forced into marriage. I want to be free to make choices in my life and live the way I want to live. I cannot have either of those while my family is still under the influence of religious fanatics,” said Cindy.

“How do you feel about the State of Tennessee taking you in?” asked Brooks.

“The State has been completely awesome in their help for me. And the family they have me staying with is awesome. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay,” said Cindy.

“Do you want to stay here?” asked Brooks.

“I want to be with my family again, but I don’t want to go back to a situation where I’m being forced into marriage and raped by some pervert,” said Cindy, not really answering the question.

“And this is the stance of Tennessee,” said Brooks as the camera cut away once again. “They are adamant about seeing justice fulfilled and those responsible for the abuse of Cindy brought to justice.”

“The case was filed in the 6th Circuit Court and a decision was made by the Justice for New York to reinvestigate the case. But the case was also sent to the Justice Department. We haven’t heard what stance they are taking yet,” said the Attorney General of Tennessee.

“Can two levels of government, the judicial and executive, reach different decisions?” asked Brooks.

“It is possible,” said the Attorney General.

“And what happens if the Justice Department comes up with a different decision?” asked Brooks.

“The court order should be binding. Additionally, the federal government should be able to see for themselves how slipshod the case was investigated by New York,” said the Attorney General.

“And have you been contacted by the Justice Department?” asked Brooks.

“No, they haven’t contacted the State of Tennessee yet,” said the Attorney General, implying there was more to the story than he was letting on.

“And the hearing you filed in the 6th Circuit Court?” asked Brooks. “Did New York show for that one?”

“No, apparently they ignored the request,” said the Attorney General.

“Currently, Cindy is being housed with a foster family in Tennessee pending resolution to the matter. Both the Governor and the Attorney General of Tennessee are in agreement with the decision to keep Cindy in their State until New York completes another investigation of the allegations,” said Brooks in front of the mansion again.

“I just want justice to be done. I don’t want to get my father into trouble, but I don’t think he should be able to do the things he is doing to me,” said Cindy sniffing and finally breaking down into tears and sobbing as the image played for two extra seconds to achieve the result they wanted. The network wanted the public to see the strife from this young girl and how the radical religious sect was destroying her.

“We’re going live to Nashville with Susan Brooks,” said the anchor as the image went back to the network desk. “Susan, what appears to be the hold up?”

“It appears New York is holding up the process since the investigation didn’t conclude any abuse had taken place. But according to a spokesman from the Tennessee child agencies, the investigation appears to have been fabricated,” said Brooks.

“Fabricated?” asked the anchor.

“Yes, the spokeswoman stated a week was not nearly enough time to complete an investigation for something so complex,” said Brooks.

“How long would it typically take?” asked the anchor.

“They couldn’t give a realistic timeline, but stated it was ‘impossible’ to complete this investigation in the amount of time they reported,” said Brooks.

“What kind of resolution do they expect?” asked the anchor.

“Simply put, another investigation into the family environment and if the allegations are confirmed, those responsible are brought to justice. This is what Tennessee is pushing for,” said Brooks.

“And when will this occur?” asked the anchor.

“Resolution might not be as quick as she would like as New York is stonewalling the efforts to get an investigation completed. It appears all efforts at resolving the allegations have been ignored by New York officials and they flatly have ignored the requests made by Tennessee to reinvestigate the matter,” said Brooks.

“Even though it’s contrary to New York law?” asked the anchor.

“Yes Brett, an unconfirmed source stated there was some political influence as well,” said Brooks.

“Political?” asked the anchor.

“Yes, the original investigator in the matter is politically connected and my source believes this is why the matter is unresolved,” said Brooks.

“Those are some pretty big claims,” said the anchor.

“They are, but again, we haven’t been granted an interview with New York to dispute those claims,” said Brooks.

“When could Cindy Grant expect to see resolution?” asked the anchor.

“I can’t say for certain since the case is currently being reviewed by the Justice Department. Additionally, the Sixth Circuit Court ruling is still binding even though the Justice Department is still reviewing the case. We should expect some movement from New York due to that court decision,” said Brooks.

“Thank you Susan,” said the anchor. “As we finish this story, we go back to the interview with Cindy Grant.”

“I just want safety. And I’m not getting it from New York,” said Cindy, in tears again. “I don’t want to cause problems, but I had no other choice.”

“But bringing this to light is not causing problems,” said Brooks sympathetically.

“I just didn’t want it to be a big deal. I just wanted the abuse to stop and not to be married at such a young age,” said Cindy, sniffing back a tear.

“And we all hope you get that. This is Susan Brooks, reporting from Nashville, Tennessee,” said Brooks on the television screen before it suddenly went jagged and multicolored. Lines spread out away from the center of the screen and the plasma display was starting to darken. It was getting this way due to the marble paperweight hurled at it by the Governor of New York after the end of the report.

“You told me this was going to be kept under wraps!” he shouted at the Attorney General and Harley Waters.

“Sir, as you instructed, we refused the interview with that particular reporter,” said the Attorney General.

“And now they turned us into the bad guys! We look like a bunch of unfeeling losers that are trying to force this girl into marriage! How did this happen?” he demanded.

“Apparently Tennessee granted an interview not only with the Governor, but with Cindy Grant as well,” said the Attorney General.

“And we refused to do so as they just reported!” yelled the Governor. “We look like complete idiots!”

“Sir, we are past that already. What kind of reactions do we need?” asked the Attorney General.

“Set up an interview with that reporter. I’ll set the record straight with her. Second, get an investigation started into the home of Cindy Grant. Make it your best agents. Third, investigate Steven Waters. I know he’s your cousin Harley, but he knew this was coming. I can’t help him anymore than you can now that this is out in the press. And contact your friends at the Justice Department. I want to know what they are going to do about this and how far they intend to go,” said the Governor.

[Grand58742]

CHAPTER 53 CONTINUED

“According to the Justice Department, they are thinking we have the right side of the story here and Tennessee is preventing efforts for us to complete an investigation,” said the Attorney General.

“Now that it’s in the press, they might have to take a stand,” said Waters.

“And right now, the public opinion will go towards Tennessee. This is something I think we need to push through Justice,” said the Attorney General.

“Why?” demanded the Governor.

“Because the story has and will make us look wrong. Let’s face it; the whole case has been mishandled by everyone up to this point. Chances are, she will remain in Tennessee until such time as the situation has resolved itself,” said the Attorney General. “But getting the Justice Department on board will help us get her returned to New York at the very least. If they promise to ‘help’ us with our investigation, she could be returned and still be in spirit of the Sixth Court decision.”

“And would we put her back in the home? Especially if the investigation turns up on our side?” asked Waters.

“Public opinion will demand some form of action. Right now, the only side to the story is Tennessee’s. We can get the family on camera, saying how much they were misunderstood and how much they want Cindy back home. But let’s face facts here; nobody in their right mind is going to believe she is safe when the mother shows up on a TV screen wearing a veil,” said the Attorney General.

“So put her on without it. We have to do something!” demanded the Governor.

“I’ll put a feeler into Justice to see what they are thinking since the story broke,” said the Attorney General. “As well as the investigation of the family.”

“We have to come out in the right on this,” said the Governor. “We need to make Tennessee look like they are in the wrong here.”

“We can look into different angles there as well,” said the Attorney General.

“Worst case scenario?” asked the Governor.

“Worst case is the FBI does an investigation into the conduct here,” said the Attorney General. “We have several members of our child services go to jail along with the father and the community is exposed for what it is.”

“And best case?” asked the Governor.

“This thing blows over in the press and they move onto another story,” said the Attorney General.

“Likely outcome?” asked the Governor.

“Public opinion can keep this in the press. Nobody likes to see a crying teenage girl on the news with a sad story,” said the Attorney General.

“Make this problem go away,” said the Governor. “Do what you have to.”

********************

“We need to get you and your family out of here for a while,” said the Imam after the report was finished.

“We have nothing to hide!” exclaimed Mohammed Hassan.

“We do not need the authorities looking into this place! You will gather your family and leave for a while! This needs to blow over before we can do anything else!” said the Imam.

“My wife knows better than to talk,” protested Hassan.

“Are you sure? If she was in a room alone with agents from the FBI or the New York State Police? Would you be so sure as to her loyalty?” asked the Imam.

Hassan thought about that for a moment before deciding she couldn’t be trusted not to keep her mouth shut. She had made comments over the past few days concerning her desires to leave the community and go someplace else. While Hassan thought about it, everything they could ever want or desire was here except for his firstborn daughter. And during his mourning for his brother, he had come to realize the wisdom of the Imam and his words. Following the path of the righteous was not easy, but the Imam assisted him in learning the path of the true believer. And knowing such, he was being brought further and further into the abyss which had no ending.

“I trust we will make sure this gets resolved to our satisfaction,” said Hassan.

“This is what the non-believer does to shatter our faith. They are trying to turn your own family against you. They might have succeeded with your daughter already. Who is next? Your wife? Your other children? Now is the time to be strong in the faith my friend,” said the Imam.

“My son is in Pakistan at the school. You and I both know that will raise questions,” said Hassan.

“It might, but only if you are around to answer them,” said the Imam.

“And my other daughter?” asked Hassan.

“It is easier to hide just you and your wife for the moment. Let her stay with one of the other families here,” said the Imam.

“She is almost all I have left,” said Hassan.

“This is true, but they cannot use her against you if they do not know where to find her,” said the Imam.

“That makes sense,” said Hassan. “And my wife?”

“Should go with you. You know her best and she does not need to be found here,” said the Imam.

“Where will we go?” asked Hassan.

“New York City I think. We have the faithful there that can watch over you,” said the Imam.

“Will I be protected?” asked Hassan.

“Yes, my brother. We will protect you with everything we have,” said the Imam.

“And the dog?” asked Hassan.

“We will have to deal with him and protect him as well. I suspect we will receive a visit from our friend at any time now,” said the Imam.

“And you will help him?” asked Hassan.

“As much as we can. Such people, although disgusting at times, have their uses. Just as a horse or a mule is useful, such men are useful as well,” said the Imam.

“I don’t trust him to keep his mouth shut,” said Hassan.

“Trust me, we have our ways,” said the Imam, making plans on that part as well.

********************

“Melinda, it’s been a long time,” said the man as he took her into a hug. “I’m sorry to hear about Kurt.”

“Thank you,” said Melinda Lyons as she released the quick embrace.

“You sounded cryptic on the phone. What’s on your mind?” he asked as he pulled her chair out at the restaurant.

“I need your help,” said Melina Lyons to the former lover of hers. He was the last man she had dated before marrying Kurt, but they still kept in touch although his job took him away a lot. The waitress came over and they ordered lunch. Service was quick since they had avoided the lunchtime rush and they caught up over the meal.

“So without asking me why, I need some help. And the conversation needs to stay between us please,” said Melinda as a beginning.

“Absolutely,” said the man. “What do you need?”

“Kurt wasn’t killed by a robber, he was killed because of something he was into,” said Melinda.

“Kurt was straight as an arrow,” protested the man. “I didn’t know him that well, but he was always a straight shooter.”

“People change,” said Melinda.

“How do you know this?” asked the man.

“Because of this,” said Melinda as she passed over the letter she had found in the bag of bribe money. The man took it and read over it quickly before folding it back up and handing it back over.

“Nothing specific in there,” said the man. “All it talks about is the bribe he took and how he felt he might be in danger.”

“True, but the coincidence of him getting killed not long after,” said Melinda.

“There is that,” said the man. “Why not take it to the police?”

“I can’t take a copy to the police since it will incriminate him in the bribery case. Kurt was a good man and doesn’t deserve to have that stigma attached to his name. He makes it clear in his letter he did so for the family. That’s why I can’t go to the police about this,” explained Melinda.

“I understand,” said the man. “What do you want me to do?”

“Find out who killed him,” said Melinda.

“And?” he asked.

“Take care of that little problem,” said Melinda.

“You understand that even talking about this constitutes conspiracy,” said the man.

“So?” asked Melinda. “Kurt was a good husband and a good father. I want justice served.”

“Listen, my group doesn’t work here in that States that often. Sometimes in special cases, but mainly our work is done overseas,” said the man.

“And your company is a good one that gets the job done,” said Melinda.

“We do,” said the man thinking over the proposition. “I’m safe to assume there isn’t a lot of money to be spread around on this?”

“I have his insurance settlement and need some of it to help pay off the bills and put the kids through college. The rest is yours,” said Melinda.

“For an old friend, I can make sure the price is right,” said the man. “If the letter is correct, I’ll need his case files from the past…say ten cases he worked. That’ll give us a starting point.”

Melinda leaned over and handed over a folder with printed pages as well as a CD-ROM. “I think you’ll only need one.”

“Why is that?” asked the man as he opened the folder. After scanning the synopsis of the report and flipping several pages, he came to the conclusion she was probably right. “Extremist compound around this area? That’s unusual for this part of the world.”

“That’s probably the best lead we have,” said Melinda. “The rest of his cases didn’t deal with anything even remotely dangerous and were fairly standard.”

“I’ll look into it,” said the man. “And the fee? Forget about it if it turns out to be this group.”

“Why?” asked Melinda.

“Let’s say I have a bone to pick with a few of them,” said the man.

“I thought that might be your reaction,” said Melinda. “I remember how torn up you were after what happened in Afghanistan.”

“Which is why you called me in the first place,” said the man. “I’m not stupid.”

“Between that and the fact I’ve known you a long time and trust you,” said Melinda.

“I’ll find out who’s behind his murder,” said the man with resolve. “And deal with them.”

“Thank you,” said Melinda as she picked up the tab for lunch. After she walked away, the man sat in silence thinking about the business opportunity. He was a former Navy SEAL who had gotten out not long after the invasion of Iraq and started his own security company. Like many back then, he had made good money in the contracts handed out for private security in that country as well as Afghanistan. While his company wasn’t as large as Blackwater, Dyncorp or Triple Canopy, it still did good business around the world and managed to keep itself from being bought out. However, he had never operated in the investigative role or inside the United States. But there was always a time for such things as Melinda was an old friend and he might have married her had his job not taken him away so many times.

But he had other reasons for taking on the job without being paid. One of his company’s teams had been escorting a humanitarian mission through a treacherous part of Afghanistan when it was attacked by Taliban forces. While half the team managed to get the medical team to safety, the remainder had held off the insurgents before being overwhelmed by the superior forces. And in true Taliban style, they had been shown no quarter or mercy and had been beheaded on the spot and the bodies drug through the mountains. While things like this happened in wartime, the sheer barbarity of the incident inflamed him as he wasn’t allowed to go back in by the military to retrieve the bodies. He knew he had done some shady business in his years as a military operator, but he also knew he had never desecrated the bodies of the dead. So he knew the dangers of militant Islam and the dangers it represented if it wasn’t checked rather quickly. There was a black hole in his soul where Muslim extremists were concerned and he had taken every opportunity he could have to punish them as effectively as he could.

But he knew he was in over his head somewhat and needed a resident expert on radical Islam. But lucky enough for him, he had an on call consultant to assist in that department and pulled up the number from memory.

“Hello old friend,” said the voice on the other end of the line.

“And good afternoon to you,” said the man.

“What can I do for you today?” asked the voice without any further pleasantries. “My time is short for the moment or I can call you later. I have a meeting in fifteen minutes.”

“How quick can you get up to Albany?” asked the man.

“New York? Tomorrow maybe. How long will I need to be there?” asked the voice.

“Maybe a few days, maybe a few weeks. Depends,” said the man.

“Something urgent?” asked the voice.

“A personal matter and a favor for an old friend,” said the man.

“Sometimes favors can be dangerous. What do you require of me?” asked the voice.

“Guidance and wisdom,” said the man.

“Curious. And for what reason?” asked the voice.

“Call it payback,” said the man.

There was a brief pause on the other end as the man contemplated the reasoning. “I can be there tonight as long as the flights are on time.”

“I will send someone to pick you up at the airport,” said the man.

“Hold on a second…I’ll be on the eight o’clock flight,” said the voice after he typed in flight arrangements to his computer.

“I’ll be there personally,” said the man.

“Should I pack two toothbrushes?” asked the voice with a laugh.

“And extra underwear like you did for Iraq,” said the man.

“I have to cancel my appointments. I will see you tonight,” said Rindo Chelki, knowing he might be gone for a while like the last time he had been in business with the man.

“Until this evening,” said the man as he ended the call. He knew Rindo would jump at the chance to even the score since his uncle had been killed by insurgents and extremists in Iraq after the invasion. And his skills as a fighter were never in question as his actions would have earned him a Silver Star at the very least during the 2003 Iraqi invasion. And since that time, he had served as a paid consultant to the man’s business and provided very good information to them.

The man also appreciated the fact Rindo wasn’t an extremist about his religion as many were. While he was Muslim, he only gave his religion the token appreciation and was fairly westernized in his thinking and actions. On the street in a business suit, he might have been taken for a successful banker or lawyer. However, when they had first met in Northern Iraq, he had been wearing old fatigue pants, a shemagh and a ripped long sleeve shirt and looked for the world like any third world fighter you saw on the news. However, he was deadly with the battered AKM and would kill an enemy as to look at them even though he spoke proper English without an accent and smiled readily.

The man’s company had assisted Rindo is finding the insurgents responsible for his uncle’s death. And in the wake, Rindo had his revenge on those that would murder his family. Exorcised of his demons, he had come back to the United States and put that part of his life behind him. But he also was in debt to the man for assisting him in tracking down those responsible for the injustice visited on his family. When he could help, he readily did and this time the man asked for a favor and called it “payback.” Rindo came to only one conclusion in his mind about that situation and decided the man found someone or something which angered him. And Rindo was willing to fight through the lake of burning gasoline to help him.

And this was the way with Kurds. When you made a friendship, you stayed friends for life or until that friendship was broken. Since the man had helped find the murderers of a family member, Rindo was a friend for life and had always acted that way. The man wouldn’t ask for any small favor and Rindo knew whatever he had found was going to be worth his time.

He had no idea of the maelstrom he was getting involved with, or even how it would end. But one thing he did know was the fact a friend had asked for help and they were going to get it.

[Mr.Grey]

I was wondering how you were going to break the news...I think you got it just right! Thank you so much for all your hard work on this excellent story.