Second Chance:

[Pop_45]

Sweet move by Tenn. And good for the general. Thanks Grand, great chapter as always.

[RVN11B]

Grand, you write one great fighting speech! And not one word did I disagree to!

Man this is a great story!

[Firestorm]

I sure hope we have stars of all kinds when it HTF

GREAT STORY GRAND Thanks again!

[overbore]

The General is demonstrating that an officers' oath is to the Constitution not to a wannabe and his minions. Pray that your excellent fiction becomes the framework and outstanding-upstanding example for others to follow. Once a few begin to stand others will follow the good example of courage and also pray that it happens before the ballot box becomes mute as the next box is not mutable.

Laus Deo
overbore

ps: suffice to say ONCE AGAIN SUPERB WRITING!!!!

[cookie4u1]

Just wanted to let you know this story is so much better than alot of the books that I have been paying for. Thanks for your talent....mark

[Mr.Grey]

Thanks for the updates, what a great story. I never thought the stakes would get this high!

[shooter]

Grand,

How many ways can you say Great story, outstanding writing, the whole work is just OUTSTANDING! I second the notion that if have paid good money for books that were no where near as good as yours. How can we help you do this for a living?

Thank you for your time and the hard work,

Frank Fehmel
Shooter

[Grand58742]

CHAPTER 59



“So what does this mean exactly?” asked the anchorman on the news show.

“Well, it means just that. Tennessee has taken the stance this is a State issue and doesn’t involve the Federal Government. And they have backed up their claims with actual deeds, not just words. They are falling back on the Tenth Amendment as this is an issue to be resolved between States and rightly so,” said the Constitutional expert on call for the show. A scoff was heard off camera and the view changed to the second individual.

“You disagree James?” asked the anchorman.

“I do indeed. This falling back on the Tenth Amendment thing gets old. There are Federal Laws in place for the child endangerment and abuse along with their protection. This certainly can become a Federal matter quickly since the two States are disagreeing,” said the second man, another expert in Constitutional Law and government.

“These rules are regulations, which I take it you are referring to the Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, does not give the Federal Government any powers they are currently taking for themselves. It is intended to assist States with preventing child abuse and neglect, not dictating terms on what need to be done,” said the first, a man named Ronnie Case.

“But in this case, two States are disagreeing. It is the role of the Federal Government to intercede and to assist in resolving this difference,” said James Irwin.

“And I would agree, but not the Executive Branch. It should be up to the U.S. Supreme Court to hear the matter. Both State Supreme Courts have issued their rulings as well as the Sixth Circuit Court. So in this case, it needs to go before the Supreme Court to be resolved,” said Ronnie.

“But until such time, the child needs to go back to the State of New York and into their custody!” said James.

“And back into a potentially explosive situation? New York has already released their investigation in the matter. They say there isn’t any danger. Now the case is ongoing, but they feel comfortable releasing the girl back into her home. Additionally, they cannot find the parents of the child in question for further interviews or the original investigating agent. But this is even after the independent investigation released by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. They make far different claims,” objected Ronnie.

“Which they were not supposed to do to begin with,” said James.

“Quite possibly it was illegal, but at the same time, here is where the Federal Government should have helped. They could have and should have made a neutral investigation into the matter, but chose to endorse one of the two investigations in the matter,” said Ronnie.

“But the fact of the matter is, one State cannot just go and take a child away from another State! The girl is a minor and cannot make those decisions on her own yet!” exclaimed James.

“Courts have been ruling on the concept of children ‘divorcing’ their parents for a number of years now. I’m not saying it’s right, but the courts have determined some children have the right to choose. Now we have a girl who has claimed religious persecution as well as potential sexual abuse. Are you one to send her back into that environment and take a chance of it happening or would you rather err on the side of caution? Would you allow it to happen to a member of your own family” demanded Ronnie.

The second man was quiet at the question and his silence spoke volumes. And public opinion was swaying largely towards Tennessee in the matter. With the general outcry over Muslims and their actions in the United States, more and more people were being drawn into sides in the matter. But the White House wasn’t backing down on the matter. The President had taken the side of the New York State Government and demanded the child be returned. But the anchor didn’t bring that up right then as he had other topics to cover before the show ended.

“With all the rhetoric being thrown around, what will be the outcome of this?” asked the anchorman.

“It’s simple, one side eventually has to blink in this matter,” said Ronnie.

“By blink you mean?” asked the anchorman.

“The last time this same language about States’ Rights starting flowing so freely was in 1860. And eventually someone blinked there as well,” said Ronnie.

“Are you saying a civil war could break out over this child? Something so simple?” asked James.

“I personally believe the historical examples are showing us what we need to see. The patterns in the days prior to the breakup of the Union are eerily similar. You had a lot of States clamoring for their rights in accordance with what the founding fathers had in mind. Today, States are fed up with the Federal Government getting involved in their lives. As well as the people of the Union as we know it. Far too many voices are being heard this day saying the Federal Government is too large to effectively control by the common people. They are fed up with being taxed and the government spending money it doesn’t have. Just look at how the elections turned out. The people wanted change and they spoke their minds. Probably going to be the same thing in 2012 during those elections. They want their representatives in the government to put a stop to some of the madness going on. And Congress has the opportunity to put a stop to the disagreement here, but they are failing to do so,” said Ronnie.

“This could lead to civil war?” asked the anchor.

“No, but it most certainly could lead to the breakup of the Union. I’m not saying it will, but the historical examples show us it is a possibility. And in turn, we have no idea where that would take us,” said Ronnie.

The anchor looked at James for a rebuke, but the look on his face was one of agreement and not of his typical arrogance for anything the talking head had to say. It was an unusual circumstance for the anchor as these two were typically at each other’s throats during the broadcast, but this time, the uncomfortable silence meant the station needed to take a break.

“We’ll be back with Ronnie Case and James Irwin after an update from our news desk,” said the anchor as the camera cut to commercial and to the headline news desk in another studio. “Well, you two certainly have gotten our attention.”

“I hate to say it,” began James. “But Ronnie is right. The historical examples are there for us to see.”

“But you don’t believe this outcome will result in a civil war?” asked the anchor.

“No, I don’t believe that and I don’t believe Ronnie does either. But it is a potential course,” said James. “Not very realistic, but it is potential. And of course, this gets your network more exposure as well as the idea getting thrown around the public. Nice to see you can still shape history from a news cast.”

“And the fact the Federal Government has cut off funding to a State? While not specifically illegal, it’s certainly not the best course of action,” said Ronnie.

“And this is something I agree with as well. You don’t cut off your nose to spite your face,” said James.

“I can’t ever remember a time you two have agreed on anything,” said the anchor with a chuckle.

“We both like horses,” laughed Ronnie who actually got along with his counterpart off screen even though they were as opposite as day and night politically.

“And the sky is blue,” said James.

“Yeah, and the Tooth Fairy is playing poker with Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny this weekend during prime time,” laughed the anchor.

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

…And in other regional news. West Virginia State Police arrested a half dozen members of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms today in a raid near Charleston. The Agents were on a stakeout near an alcohol production facility when they were detained and arrested by the police forces for exceeding their federal charter and conducting an illegal raid. The facility, contracted by West Virginia University, is producing ethanol for studies in alternative fuels research and has been for the past nine years. BATF spokesman claimed the contractor was operating the facility without a proper Federal license and had received reports of the individual selling moonshine. West Virginia State Officials say the facility was under the supervision of and regulated by the State Department of Agriculture and no Federal laws were broken since the alcohol produced was not being transported over State lines.

Washington is still demanding the release of the twenty-nine FBI agents arrested in the early morning sweeps in Knoxville Tennessee. The Agents, members of the Hostage Rescue Team, were on ground and actively searching for Cindy Grant also known as Haseena Hassan. The Tennessee Governor stated he is making good on his promises to exclude any Federal intervention in the custody battle between the State of New York and Tennessee and vows to continue arresting Agents and Officials as they enter the State. Local FBI and other Federal Agencies have already been evicted from their offices and have been ordered out of the State of Tennessee. The President had no comment, but the White House Press Secretary stated “other options are being considered for the release of the Federal Agents unlawfully detained as well as putting a stop to this insurgency within the State of Tennessee. Law and order will prevail.”

A total of eighty-eight Federal Agents and Officers have been detained in the past week since the announcement by the Tennessee Governor. Additionally, another six States have joined the coalition objecting to the Federal intervention in the Grant case, bringing the total to twenty-three. Alaska, Arizona, Montana, Wyoming, Vermont and Colorado all made press announcements stating their desire for the Federal Government to back off the situation and would stand by Tennessee and other members of the coalition if the need arose. Federal funding has already been cut off to the majority of the States who have already joined the coalition and it is likely the funding will be cut off to the newly joined States as well. The Speaker of the House made this announcement yesterday in response to the additional withholding of funds:

“The President has abandoned all sense of reality by withholding the people’s money! It is not his money to withhold! It is our money, the people’s money! I called the Governor of Ohio this morning and told him Congress would not object to his plans to stop the flow of tax dollars to Washington. Even if it means I’m not getting paid, the taxes you pay need to stay where you pay them. I encourage ALL States to follow the lead of Tennessee, Alabama, Texas and Oklahoma in stopping all Federal taxes from being sent to the government. Eventually the coercion of withholding Federal funds will be an empty threat since he won’t have the money to withhold anymore. We can and will starve the beast if all States join together and stop sending your hard earned money to Washington.”

The White House had no comment for the remarks of the Speaker. However, the Minority Leader of the House stated he was “out of line and should be admonished.” She introduced a vote containing the same verbiage as the previous admonishment of a Representative after an outburst during a joint session of Congress. After she began speaking, she was interrupted and shouted down by several members of the opposite party. It took nearly ten minutes for order to be restored before the motion was voted down by a voice vote.

In a poll conducted yesterday, 83% of Americans support the decision made by Tennessee in the matters concerning Cindy Grant. 7% said the State was in the wrong and 10% were unknown. Thousands of e-mails, letters and phone calls have been received by the Governor’s office in Nashville. Additionally, ‘Sheriff First’ legislation has been introduced in another eleven States today, bringing the total to thirty seven States with the legislation on the agenda. Nine States have already voted the measures in full and California has called for a special referendum and vote on the matter. The White House had no comment for the poll numbers or the legislation.

Cindy Grant still has yet to be found by government officials as they are still searching for her in the State of Tennessee. They claim to have promising leads, but have yet to identify the precise location where she is being held. FBI Spokesman…

“It’s hard being a celebrity you know?” said Cindy very sarcastically as the news on the radio continued in the background.

“Fifteen minutes of fame, the rest of your life either wanting more or wishing it never happened,” said Charlie. “Three-eighths.”

“You’re still pretty popular,” said Cindy handing down the ratchet and socket.

“I suppose so. The books still sell,” he said while trying to fit the bolt into the socket. He found it too small and handed the socket back up. “Swap that for a seven-sixteenths.”

She found the appropriate socket and handed it under the car to him. “Can I ask a personal question?”

“Like something’s ever stopped you before?” he chuckled and found the bolt fit perfectly. He started ratcheting it down with a regular driver.

“Why did you stop writing?” asked Cindy.

“Dunno, just lost the desire for it after Annie died. Sat behind a computer for close to a year and never could think of a darn thing to write,” he said and grunted at the bolt he had tightened most of the way down. She didn’t realize he was working on another novel in his spare time. “Torque wrench.”

“Never wanted to get back into it?” she asked and handed down the appropriate tool, not realizing he had been hard at work on a new novel.

“Maybe, but farming keeps me way too busy these days,” said Charlie.

“I started reading one of your books the other day. Not bad, but too manly for my tastes,” she laughed.

“I had some women fans,” he objected.

“Just because they were star struck doesn’t count. Some women will chase anyone they think is a celebrity,” she laughed.

“And not for my good looks and charm?” he laughed.

“I suppose you have some endearing traits besides your writing abilities,” she laughed.

“Might I remind you there ain’t a cornucopia of women hanging around the edge of the driveway stalking me,” he laughed. “Flathead screwdriver.”

“Which one?” she asked.

“Ummm, give me the one quarter,” he said. “So yeah, I guess most of those women fans were quick to turn to someone else once my books went off the best seller list. I suppose I’m old news and not very worthy of being stalked these days.”

“Did you forget about Mary Worthington? I think I’ll put in a good word for you and invite her over for dinner one night,” laughed Cindy as she located the screwdriver and swapped it out with the wrench he handed up.

“Just remember, if we hit it off, who’s to blame? And just imagine the breakfast conversations,” said Charlie.

“And what would Erica think?” asked Cindy.

“I think she’s been pretty patient with me so far. If I was to do something stupid like that, she would have both our heads on a platter,” he said as he made a minor adjustment.

“Okay, maybe not such a good idea,” laughed Cindy.

“With age comes wisdom young lady. All us old guys aren’t dumb,” he chuckled.

“Just most of them,” she said with her sassy tone. He reached out and smacked the back of her leg with the belt he was getting ready to install on the motor. Not a full fledged hit, but playfully tapped her enough to get her attention.

“Owww!” she exclaimed through gritted teeth.

“One thing to remember, you might think we’re dumb, but we’re crafty and sneaky in our old age,” he said with a chuckle and went back to working on the engine.

“Not fair! You had that belt ready to go!” she exclaimed.

“Like I said, sneaky like,” he chuckled.

“You may be sneaky, but brute force wins every time. I’ve got all the tools up here including the hammers,” she said.

“Okay, I give up. But a personal question for you. I haven’t really heard you talk about boys and all. I know it’s kind of a thing girls typically talk about with other girls, but I haven’t even seen you make gaga eyes at any of the boys that came around except Toby,” said Charlie.

“I don’t know, just kind of given up on the male side of the species for the moment,” she said.

“And Toby?” he asked.

“Toby’s a nice guy. Cute and all, but he doesn’t talk! He seems like a nice guy any girl might want, but he never talks to me. Just gives me that silly shy grin all the time,” she replied.

“You ever try to start a conversation?” asked Charlie.

“Plenty of times, but he’s just far too shy,” Cindy replied.

“So you are interested?” he asked.

“I guess. I mean, the thought of a boyfriend is okay I guess, but I guess I’m old fashioned enough for him to make his move first,” she said. “I guess I’d just rather be his friend for the moment.”

“You might be waiting quite a while for him to make a move,” he said with a grunt as he tightened another bolt.

“Why are boys so dumb?” she asked.

“I can’t answer that without being prejudicial in my reply,” he laughed.

“I mean, at least with Nate Jones I know where he stands. But with Toby, who knows if he likes me or not? I think he does, gave me a shirt and we kissed that one time, but nothing since then. Boys could drive women insane,” she said dramatically.

“The same could be said of women you know,” he replied.

“Not us! We’re angels!” she said innocently.

“Honey, women could drive men up the wall all day long. If it wasn’t for scientific evidence saying otherwise, I would say you all are a completely different species,” he laughed.

“And the same could be said for most of the men I’ve encountered for the past few years,” she said.

“Understandable, but we all ain’t like…them,” he said.

“No, you’ve restored my faith somewhat,” she said.

“Well, I can sleep better at night,” he said with a laugh. “Arc joint pliers.”

“Which are those again?” she asked.

“The ones with…kind of looks like the jaws are off at an angle. One handle is bent up like a hockey stick,” he said, thinking of a way to describe them.

“Which one?” she asked and handed down a set of arc joint and vise grips. She didn’t know which one in particular since she was still learning the tools of the toolbox. She knew what most of the tools were, but every once in a while one escaped her.

“Those, but the smaller ones,” he said, tapping the tool as he looked at it.

“So yeah, I’ve come to realize all men aren’t horrible,” she said after grabbing the proper set.

“Some can be downright mean when it comes to it. But I think you know this already,” he said.

“I know, I guess I’m like any girl my age, looking for the perfect man,” she said.

“Ain’t no such thing sweetheart,” he grunted as he tightened another bolt. “Hand me the ratchet again with that seven-sixteenths.”

She located the tool and handed it down. “So you’ve never met a perfect man or woman in your life?”

“Don’t think there is such a thing as a perfect woman either. I think it’s the imperfections we love more than what we think is the ‘best’ qualities,” he said.

“Very profound,” she said.

“It’s true,” he said and worked on another bolt. “So no boy bands crashing my property?”

“Nah, they aren’t my type,” she said with a laugh.

“And your type is?” he asked.

“Dunno, I’m kind of young and all. Figured I’d try ‘em all out to figure out which one I liked the most,” she said.

“Mind you I will not be having boys sneaking onto my farm after dark young lady,” he warned from below the car.

“You go to bed early you know,” she said.

“I’m a light sleeper,” he laughed.

“Don’t worry about it, I’m being good. It’s hard being Little Miss Proper, but eventually I’ll have my day,” she laughed.

“The things I put up with,” he chuckled from under the car.

“But another question. Why haven’t you taken the next step with Erica?” asked Cindy.

“Just never have. I guess I just haven’t pushed it to that next level yet,” said Charlie. “I mean, we haven’t been together that long either so it’s kind of a stretch to imagine engagement.”

“Afraid of commitment?” asked Cindy.

“No, just haven’t taken it to the engagement level yet,” said Charlie.

“You think you ever will?” asked Cindy.

“Maybe, I don’t know. She’s made her feelings quite apparent for me,” he said with another grunt.

“But you haven’t for her?” asked Cindy.

“I didn’t say that,” said Charlie. “We’ve talked about it.”

“You two are good together. A blind man could see that in a heartbeat,” observed Cindy.

“We do get along very well. I just…I don’t know,” said Charlie.

“What?” asked Cindy.

“I just guess I’m afraid of going through the hurt all over again,” said Charlie honestly. “I could imagine us growing old together very content with our lives, but I’m afraid of getting hurt or even hurting her.”

“You’re afraid of something?” asked Cindy.

“Never said I was the bravest man on the planet,” he remarked.

“I beg to differ. Anyone who takes in a poor lost teenage girl out of the kindness of their heart is somewhat brave,” she chuckled.

“There is that,” laughed Charlie.

“So I should set up a romantic dinner for the two of you and hope for an eventual outcome?” she asked with a laugh.

“Playing matchmaker again?” he asked with a grunt as he tightened down a bolt.

“Nope, just being me,” she said and he imagined she had her silly grin on her face.

“Suppose I could call up the Jones boys and ask them to come over and help out. They’ve got a thing for old engines,” said Charlie.

“You play dirty, you know?” she said after a moment of reflection.

“Nah, just crafty,” he chuckled. “Torque wrench again.”

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

“Frank? Frankie Tidwell?” asked Dianna Grant as she went through the supermarket. She was being escorted as par for the course, but had broken off grabbing a few specific items

“I’m sorry?” he asked, looking at the women in the full niqāb standing to his front.

“It’s Diana Grant,” she said and pulled up the veil.

“Diana! It’s been forever!” he said. “What are you doing in New York?”

“Visiting some friends,” she said. “And you?”

“Wow, I never expected to find you here,” he said and motioned at her attire. “I have to ask.”

“I’ve converted to Islam along with Stephen,” said Diana.

“To answer your question, I got a job here. Shift manager at one of the hotels,” said Frankie, accepting the explanation in stride. He saw plenty of odd things in his job and it was no big deal as she was still the same person inside.

“I thought you were in Oregon, or at least were the last time we saw each other,” she said.

“I was, but had to move back here on account of my parents since they aren’t doing well. They retired over in Pennsylvania and this was the closest place I could get a job,” he informed her. “And you two? How is the family?”

“We’re doing good,” said Diana.

“And the kids?” asked Frankie, being polite.

“Good,” said Diana guardedly.

“Wow, I still can’t believe I ran into you in New York City of all places,” he said. “And besides the veil, you look great.”

“You haven’t changed a bit either,” said Diana. “Still not married?”

“Just can’t seem to keep Miss Perfect in my sights. Something in my life goes haywire and the opportunity slips away,” he said.

“And I thought you were engaged the last time we spoke,” she replied.

“I was, but since I went to Afghanistan for a year with the Reserves, it kind of ruined what might have been a good relationship,” said Frankie.

“I’m sorry,” she replied.

“Not your fault. Halfway around the world and a year apart is a hard sell on a prospective bribe to be. So it just didn’t work out,” said Frankie.

“You’ll find someone eventually,” said Diana.

“I’m sure,” he said. “Hey, I’ve got to run, but we should hook up for lunch or something sometime and catch up. You should bring Stephen along as well.”

“He’s out with a job right now,” she replied.

“Okay, just the two of us. No big deal, right?” he asked. “Just friends.”

“I’ll see if I can make it,” said Diana as she took the telephone number from him and put it in her pocket. They shook hands and departed, with her putting the niqāb back on before meeting back up with the group. But even as she wandered down the aisle, she was being watched by another member of the community. And he would report her goings on to the leadership of his community and furthermore, the report would make its way back upstate.

[Pop_45]

Thanks Grand, another great chapter.

[Abigailnumber2]

Bet no one has every asked you to slow down on pumping out chapters. :confused: I can't keep up anymore:cool:

[Grand58742]

CHAPTER 60




“…and a reward of one million dollars will be included for any information leading to the arrest of the kidnapper of Haseena Hassan, a.k.a Cindy Grant or any information that leads to her recovery. Please call the toll free number for the Federal Bureau of Investigations to give this information. Tennessee has continued to try the patience of the Federal Government and has not voluntarily given up any information about her current whereabouts. So henceforth, the Governorship of Tennessee is in violation of the law and the President had appointed an acting Governor until such time as special elections can be held. Federal Agents have been unsuccessful in his arrest thus far, but are close to an apprehension. Additionally, any office in the State of Tennessee that has assisted in concealing the location of Cindy Grant is also in violation of the law and the member will forfeit the office. Are there any questions?” asked the Attorney General of the United States. Twenty questions were voiced at one time and he was prepared for them.

“Gee boss, you’re fired,” laughed the Tennessee Attorney General.

“As are you,” laughed the Governor. “What do you think of this?”

“Besides the fact he can’t do that?” asked the Lieutenant Governor.

“Besides that,” said the Governor.

“Well, the people of this State won’t care for that decision much. And frankly, will probably kick the acting Governor out when he comes to town,” said the Attorney General. “You don’t tell us what to do in this State unless you happen to be paying the bills. And last time I looked, they weren’t paying any of our bills.”

“And you have the support from other States as well. I’m sure you can be expecting a bunch of calls over the next day or so with support,” said the Lieutenant Governor.

“So what do we do?” asked the Governor.

“We hold our own press conference and push the fact we were legally elected in accordance with the State laws. Additionally, the President cannot just up and fire you. This is a State matter and no concern of his,” said the Attorney General.

“Additionally, we’ll be introducing legislation in the House and Senate confirming the fact you are the duly elected Governor of this State and Washington can take a hike,” said the Tennessee Speaker of the House. “And if they don’t like it, who cares?”

“Anything else?” asked the Governor.

“The FBI and other federal agencies have been caught trying to sneak in over the past few weeks. We’re detaining them as we find them,” said the Director of the TBI.

“Anything more on the investigation from New York?” asked the Governor.

“They cannot find the family in question or the agent who conducted the investigation. They are basically washing their hands of it,” said the Director.

“And what do we do now?” asked the Governor.

“We wait for Washington to blink. They will have to eventually,” said the Lieutenant Governor.

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

“Yes, is this the Unicoi County Sheriff’s Office?” asked the voice over the phone.

“Yes it is,” said the dispatcher.

“I have a couple of questions if you don’t mind,” said the voice calling from the blocked number.

“Go ahead,” said the dispatcher.

“I would like to know why your office is hiding a runaway girl from her family,” said the voice.

“I’m sorry, who’s calling please?” asked the dispatcher.

“I said I want to know why your agency is part of a conspiracy to conceal Haseena Hassan and not return her to her family,” said the voice.

“I don’t know who that is. This is the Unicoi County Sheriff’s Office. Are you sure you have the right number?” asked the dispatcher.

“Yes, you might know her as Cindy Grant. You have her and we want her back,” said the voice.

“You must be mistaken, we don’t know anyone by that name,” said the dispatcher, making notes about the time, the caller, the voice and other information that might help track down the caller.

“No, we know you have her and we want her back,” said the voice.

“Specifically who might want her back? I would like to help you, but you aren’t giving me enough information to process your request,” said the dispatcher, continuing to make notes.

“I represent her family and we will get her back,” said the voice.

“I don’t know anyone by the name you mentioned. Can I get your name, a callback number and your location to pass on to an investigator?” asked the dispatcher.

“She needs to be returned. The people responsible for hiding her will be made an example of. Their blood will run freely in the streets where we find them and Haseena will be returned to her family. And if she is impure, she will be dealt with as the shari’a law would dictate as well. The blood will flow freely on that day,” said the voice before the line clicked off.

“I’m sorry, can you repeat that? Hello? Hello?” asked the dispatcher, making mad notes right then and hoping this was just a prank caller. But the message had been clear and they needed little prompting. The first thing to be done was getting an investigation started on the caller and second was to inform Mitch about the call. The dispatcher called for relief to go in person to talk to Mitch and pass on the information. After arriving at his office, he informed Mitch of the conversation and let him hear the recording.

“Try and track it down and get with the TBI. They may be able to track some information we can’t,” said Mitch.

“And Charlie? Should we call him and warn him?” asked the dispatcher.

“No, not until we have more information,” said Mitch. “Track it down quickly.”

“Charlie needs to know there was a threat against him,” said the dispatcher.

“Until we make sure this isn’t some lunatic who randomly made a phone call, we don’t let Charlie know. He could go off the deep end,” said Mitch.

“Yes sir,” said the dispatcher as he left the office. However, he knew Charlie had the right to know about the information and decided to pay him a visit after his shift. They had gone to school together and he knew Charlie needed to know the threat against him and Cindy. He only had another three hours on shift and would head out there in person after getting relieved. He passed on the information to the investigators and headed back to his office where he monitored calls and sent units out to loud dogs barking and minor vehicle accidents. Nothing out of the ordinary and certainly nothing to be excited over. After his relief came in, he headed straight for Limestone Cove and pulled into Charlie’s driveway. He saw Charlie out working in the front yard on what appeared to be a planter for the spring.

“Hey Phil,” said Charlie as he took a break.

“Charlie, need to talk to you,” he said without pleasantries.

“Sure thing,” said Charlie and removed the gloves he had on. “What’s on your mind?”

“I got a phone call today. Someone calling about our little situation,” said the dispatcher.

“Okay,” said Charlie. “Which situation?”

“The one concerning other residents out here. They called here specifically looking for her. Somehow they know she’s here,” said the dispatcher as he continued explaining the conversation and giving Charlie the transcripts.

“Who did?” asked Charlie as he started looking through the transcript.

“The folks you are trying to lie low and avoid,” said the dispatcher.

“Does Mitch know?” asked Charlie after he completed reading the papers.

“I informed him as soon as I got the call,” said the dispatcher.

“And what did he say?” asked Charlie.

“Told me he would work on it, but I think you have a right to know,” said the dispatcher.

“I appreciate the heads up,” said Charlie and watched as the man walked away. He thought about the call and what it represented. And he also wondered why Mitch hadn’t said anything about it. The phone call represented a clear and direct threat to Cindy’s security. And if Mitch wasn’t going to do anything about it, he certainly would be. He made a snap decision in his mind and started preparing for the journey and the final reckoning that would occur at the end of that journey. It was far past time for him to be more proactive in the situation rather than just wait around for something to happen. He knew he needed information and went to the computer to get everything he could on the case as well as hoping to get pictures of the father and the Imam. He got a few shots from long range and a younger picture of the father, but it would have to do. He also learned the father still had yet to be found, but Charlie was patient and would find him first.

Armed with information, he headed to his gun safe where he would arm with something far more deadly than facts alone. Looking around, he grabbed the weapons he was most familiar and the most proficient with. He grabbed some gun cases from the basement and packed away the rifles before selecting a shotgun and two pistols. It looked like a lot, but he planned on finishing everything up in one go and ending the game they were playing.

Going downstairs, he planned on an extended trip and packed accordingly. He grabbed the long life foods and tossed them into a bag along with several containers for water. He had the knowledge to live off the land for a long time, but would prefer more creature comforts. And from his time in the Army, he knew better foods would keep him more alert in the lack of sleep. And when he did get the opportunity to sleep, he wanted to be as comfortable and warm as possible since it made for better resting conditions. He started packing away a bug out bag, but tailored it more towards an escape and evasion bag. He started carrying the gear upstairs and went to his truck to put on the bed cover so the items inside couldn’t be seen by the casual observer. As he came back upstairs, he passed Cindy.

“Charlie, is everything okay?” asked Cindy as she saw him carrying an ammo can and one of his cased rifles and heading to the truck.

“Yep, everything’s perfectly okay,” he said resolutely.

“Are you sure?” she asked as it looked like he was planning on a long trip somewhere and not telling her.

“Positive. Just something I need to do,” said Charlie. “You need to get your go bag ready and pack another bag for an extended stay at Erica’s place. Get Spazz packed up as well, his food, litter, litter box and toys.”

“Why?” she asked, suddenly concerned not everything was fine in his or her world.

“Don’t argue with me. Just go pack up some clothes right now,” he said, but not sternly.

“Charlie, you’re scaring me!” she objected.

“Everything’s going to be just fine. Just go pack up some things,” he said. He would explain to Erica about why he suddenly needed to go to New York and deal with the problems that had come up. He knew Erica might try to talk him out of it, but he knew in his heart this was what should have been done a long time ago. For the past few months, Charlie had been living with fear in the back of his mind. Fear of the unknown and reactive in nature. But for the first time, he felt like this was the right course of action. He was no longer afraid since it would come to an end in the near future.

Cindy wavered for several moments before going into the house and packing up her clothing for a quick trip. She also called Mitch to let him know Charlie was acting far out of the ordinary and might need a friend close at hand. Grabbing her bag, she started packing away her clothing neatly and watched out the window as Charlie came out with more items and stowed them away in the back of his truck. He was planning on going away for a more than an overnighter and she got a little more afraid on his determination and the fact he seemed to be carrying enough ordnance to start World War Three. Several minutes passed before Mitch came rolling up in his vehicle.

“Charlie, what are you doing?” asked Mitch.

“What should have been done last summer Mitch,” said Charlie as he put his precision rifle in a hard case in the truck.

“All because we got a prank phone call?” asked Mitch, who knew exactly what the problem was. “You need to think about what you’re doing, Charlie.”

“I have thought about it Mitch and I’m not going to let them terrorize us or her any longer. I’m going to take care of this problem once and for all,” said Charlie with grim determination on his face.

“Listen, it was just a prank call,” said Mitch.

“They called your office and said her name specifically. They called this county specifically!” said Charlie with an edge in his voice, wondering why Mitch was taking things to nonchalantly.

“And what happens to Cindy while you’re gone?” asked Mitch.

“I’ll have Erica keep an eye on her,” said Charlie. “Or Mrs. Tilson and Jeff.”

“And what happens if you don’t come back?” asked Mitch.

“I’ll make it back,” said Charlie.

“And if you get caught?” asked Mitch.

“I won’t,” said Charlie.

“But if you do, what happens to her?” asked Mitch quietly.

Charlie stopped arranging the gear in the bed of his truck for a moment before thinking about that point. He started to think things through to their logical conclusion and what would happen if he failed. He really didn’t have a plan for the aftermath, just for the reckoning he was about to deliver on those he felt had been a problem long enough.

“I’ll be fine,” said Charlie as he continued to organize the gear in the truck.

“Charlie, you need to think this through. What happens if you get killed? What happens to Cindy then? You’re the only good thing in her life she’s known in the past few years and you need to stop and think about what would happen to her if that rug was yanked out from under her,” said Mitch, trying a different track.

“I would hope Erica or you and Sarah would take care of her,” said Charlie.

“I don’t want to be the one to tell her you got killed,” said Mitch.

“I won’t be,” said Charlie.

“You know life happens and anything can happen when you slip up. It only takes a little glitch to ruin everything,” said Mitch.

“I won’t slip up,” said Charlie.

“I can’t let you do this,” said Mitch.

“They called this county Mitch! They called here!” growled Charlie as he pointed his finger at Mitch several times. “And you didn’t say anything about it!”

“Along with the other ninety plus counties in this State, Charlie! They called each and every one of them in alphabetical order fishing for info! And that’s why I never said anything to you about it!” Mitch growled in return.

“I didn’t know that,” said Charlie after pausing for a moment.

“If there was a specific threat, do you honestly think I wouldn’t have told you?” asked Mitch.

“I would hope you would,” said Charlie.

“After I got the call, I started getting the call traced very quietly not to alert anyone. If the inquiry was traced to this county, they would know where to start looking,” said Mitch.

“And what did they find out?” asked Charlie.

“Each and every county got the same call, all from the same area in Washington. The TBI checked into it and called each and every dispatcher in the State and came to the same conclusion,” said Mitch.

“And that conclusion?” asked Charlie.

“It’s all a hoax. The government was fishing for information about where she might be. They used some pretty inflammatory rhetoric and said things that would lead us to believe otherwise, but the calls came from a government switchboard. However, nobody gave them anything,” said Mitch.

“So I’m overreacting?” asked Charlie.

“To say the least. You can’t take matters into your own hands,” said Mitch.

“I was going to put a stop to this once and for all,” said Charlie.

“And become the number one suspect at the same time?” asked Mitch.

“Whatever makes her safe,” said Charlie.

“You keep her safe and you need to remember that. She is not safe if you are sitting in a jail rotting away,” said Mitch.

“I just want the problem to go away,” said Charlie.

“The public opinion is on our side, New York is getting pressure from everyone and you still want to go off slaying the dragons?” asked Mitch.

“Again, whatever keeps her safe,” said Charlie.

“Put this stuff away and go talk to that girl. You’ve got her scared out of her mind right now,” said Mitch.

Charlie paused to think about what was going on. In a rash decision to go off and take care of the problems her father and his religious cult were causing, he didn’t think everything through to the logical conclusion. But turning around, he saw a really good reason for staying behind standing on the porch with her bag in her hand and the cat in the carrier at her feet. Cindy had a worried expression on her face and looked scared at the situation to her front. He knew it was a mistake to go charging off without thinking things through to the end result. And in the end, he could be dead or in jail. But it was a chance he was willing to take if it kept her safe.

But right then, Charlie knew he had something to live for. To continue his life and being. Cindy had given him a reason to continue living and not to screw anything up. And along the way had taught him it was okay to open his heart and love again. And also given him the opportunity with Erica he might have missed had he not been brought out of his funk. And in looking at her, he saw she depended on him to keep her safe and provide for her continued being. So in thinking he had nothing to lose by going off and slaying the dragons like Mitch put it, he learned he had plenty to live for standing there looking scared. And even more to live for coming into the driveway as Erica came home. He dropped what he was doing and headed over to the porch and grabbed her in a hug.

“Mitch? Is everything okay?” asked Erica as she got out of her SUV.

“Yeah, just fine now,” said Mitch as he got into his cruiser and headed back towards Erwin.

“What was that about?” asked Erica.

“I was a fool and Mitch called me out on it,” said Charlie as he took her into a hug.

“A fool about what?” asked Erica.

“Nothing worth mentioning,” said Charlie with a smile. “Just reminded me I have all the gifts from God I might ever need.”

[Grand58742]

Bet no one has every asked you to slow down on pumping out chapters. :confused: I can't keep up anymore:cool:

No...can't say that's ever happened lol. Normally it's "why haven't you gotten off your duff and finished it yet?"

[saeb]

Great story Grand, I appreciate your abilities and your time!

[barfife]

You still have me on the edge of my seat. Great writing.

[overbore]

Once again, Grand, top notch writing and showing us the dielema of being a target or taking pro active action that may also have bad consequences; Occams Razor in action.

Laus Deo
overbore