At Cross Ends

AT CROSS ENDS by

Christy Poff

WHISKEY CREEK PRESS www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Published by WHISKEY CREEK PRESS Whiskey Creek Press PO Box 51052 Casper, WY 82605-1052 www.whiskeycreekpress.com

Copyright © 2007 by Karen Morris Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ISBN 978-1-59374-712-1

Credits Cover Artist: Jinger Heaston Editor: Chere Gruver Printed in the United States of America

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING ABOUT AT CROSS ENDS “This tale by Ms. Poff is full of suspense, intriguing and emotion turmoil. She makes every page a nail biting experience that will have you on the edge of your seat. Just when you believe all is well; Ms. Poff takes us on another roller coaster ride. This book will have you exhausted by the end. Make sure to get plenty of rest before you tackle reading this story.” 3 cups Candy Cay Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books “At Cross Ends was an extremely tense novel from the first page to the last. The danger and tension will keep you on the edge of your seat as you read in disbelief what one man can do to another. Mark and Riley were fortunate to have each other. Their love will be needed to sustain them in the years to come as Graham Cross continues to ply his own special brand of evil. Christy Poff uses emotion to her advantage as she draws you into the world of Riley and Mark, a world where nothing is safe. Romantic suspense at its best, At Cross Ends will keep your interest until the last word as this couple struggle to find the happiness they so richly deserve.” eCataromance 4.5 stars Reviewer: Elise Lynn

Dedication As always, my love goes out to my daughter, Deb, and Chere.

Prologue A solitary figure dressed in black darted among the rows of cars parked at an exclusive restaurant outside Washington, DC. When he spied the one he sought, he sped to it. Quickly, he unlocked the driver’s side door using a key stolen and copied weeks before, then he slid behind the wheel. He heard voices and ducked out of sight. After they were gone, he sat up and took a cloth from a plastic sandwich bag he had in a small case, then wiped the steering wheel with it. Once he finished, he put the small piece of fabric back in the bag and sealed it. He got out of the car, locking the door behind him. The man took off the latex gloves he’d been wearing and put them in another bag, putting both together. He slid in underneath the four-wheel drive vehicle to carefully place a small setup of explosives which could be detonated from a remote starting device he would use later. Another set of voices nearby made him freeze. Relaxing after another car drove away, he quickly left the SUV and headed to another one waiting down the street. “Everything done?” his partner asked. “As easy as taking candy from a sweet baby,” he said with an air of confidence in his voice. “Good.” They sat in the limo and watched the parking lot, waiting for the owner of the 1999 black Range Rover to return to her car. They did not have long to wait. After all, time was on their side. **** 1

At Cross Ends Riley Devane sat through dinner, a tedious one with a client. They had spent the meal—a delicious one, she had to admit— discussing the plan for an office center on land his company owned north of the capital. Prime acreage, it had grown perfect in every sense of the plan she had laid out. The scenic location, accessibility to the Beltway and Interstate 95, the plan itself had all gelled together in one of Riley’s easier jobs. Now, if she could survive the night with Mister Boring. They had just been served their coffee, when he answered an incoming call on his cell phone. Why can’t the infernal things be left off during a meal or meetings or… “Miss Devane, I’m very pleased. I’ll have my attorneys look over the contracts and have them to you tomorrow afternoon or the morning after.” “Thank you, Mister Lockwood.” “If you’ll excuse me, I have some pressing business to attend to.” She nodded as he took her hand and warmly squeezed it. “It will be a pleasure working with you.” “Thank you again. I’m looking forward to it.” “Please enjoy the ambiance of the evening. I’ve taken care of everything.” Riley smiled as he said good-bye and left. She had the waiter refill her coffee cup and then left. She’d eaten a little more than she had thought and felt slightly uncomfortable but the fresh air of the spring evening made her stomach ease. Taking another deep breath and spying her Range Rover, she walked across the parking lot. Unlocking the door, she opened it, then slid behind the wheel. She put her briefcase on the seat next to her before she turned the key in the ignition. As the engine hummed, she buckled the seat belt and locked her door, then drove out of the lot. Riley turned the radio on, listening to the latest from Shakira, an ener2

At Cross Ends getic songstress she loved. If only I could move like her—at least I have my dreams. As she headed toward the road which would take her to the huge estate she lived on, she began to feel drowsy. She thought it was because of her sated enjoyment from dinner but this seemed strange. Riley wanted to pull over and fall asleep for a few minutes, even though she had a little farther to go—this so unlike her, because she usually made it home first. After reading reports and seeing documentaries on drunk driving, she always made sure she only had one glass of wine or one drink, never anymore, plus she would drink it while eating. She did not want to cause an accident or hurt someone or become one of those horrible statistics. She’d had one glass of Zinfandel with her lobster tail dinner. What the hell is going on? The lightheadedness and sleepiness became worse. A cold, maybe? Her eyes saw double and she began to overcorrect her driving. She swerved from one side of the road to the other while she panicked over her situation. “Come on, Riley, get a grip.” A bright light appeared ahead of her and grew as it came nearer. She turned hard to avoid hitting it, driving off the road and into a tree. The impact caused the air bag to deploy and knocked her back against the seat from the force of the safety feature she feared would suffocate her. She tried to get her cell phone to call for help. Feeling it in her pocket where she always carried it, she pulled it out and attempted to dial 9-1-1. She barely heard the dispatcher’s voice. “Do you have an emergency?” “Accident… I’ve been…in…” “Ma’am, are you all right? Ma’am?” “I need help…” “Where are you?” 3

At Cross Ends Riley could not answer, the phone falling from her grasp to the floor of the Range Rover. Her hand fell to her side as her mind became even more sluggish. “Ma’am, can you hear me? I’m trying to get you emergency assistance. Ma’am?” **** Several patrol cars in the area of where the county dispatcher triangulated a cell phone’s signal searched for any sign of an accident. Unit Five-thirteen found the black, late-model SUV lodged in an elm tree, the female driver unconscious. “Dispatch, I’ve found it out on Saw Mill Road—one vehicle into a tree with one female victim, unconscious. I need rescue and medical out here STAT.” “Affirmative, Five-thirteen.” “Ma’am, can you hear me? I’m Officer Morris. Help is on the way.” He felt her neck for a pulse, relieved to find one, though slower than he would have liked. He radioed in an update as he looked at her surroundings. Seeing the briefcase, his attention was caught by a quick but small light blinking. Looking down, he found a cell phone, his report beginning to form in his mind. “Hello?” “This is County Dispatcher Eleven.” “Good.” “Thanks, Ted.” “Anytime,” he said before he turned off the phone. He found a blanket laying on the backseat and put it over her to keep her warm. He looked up when he heard the sound of another vehicle coming down the road. It stopped before a man got out and joined him. “I’m a doctor. Can I help?” “She’s unconscious, though I’m not sure for how long. She’s got a pulse and I couldn’t find any other visible injuries.” 4

At Cross Ends “It feels like she’s bleeding internally. We’ve got to get her to a hospital ASAP.” “Fire/Rescue and medics are on their way.” “Can’t wait. I’ll take her in my car. Help me get her out of the wreckage.” Together, the two men pulled the woman from her car, then put her into the doctor’s limo, stretching her across the backseat. “Will she be all right, Doctor?” “I hope so. I’ll get her to the hospital, which should aid in her treatment and recovery.” “Do you want an escort?” “That would help. By the way, Officer Morris?” “Yes?” he answered as he turned back to the doctor. “What…” “Good-bye,” the doctor said before he shot the police officer twice, making sure both shots were fatal. He made sure the man died, then got into the limo and slammed the door. “Go,” he commanded the driver. As the car passed the accident scene and got far enough away, the doctor pulled out a small box from his pocket. He extended a small antenna before he pressed a button on it. Moments later, the Range Rover exploded into flames and lit up the darkness of the evening. The plan had gone as scheduled.

5

At Cross Ends

Chapter 1 Miles away at the moment of Riley’s accident, several fire departments in Virginia fought a multi-alarm fire at an auto parts/service center. The volunteers had finally gotten the upper hand over the blaze they figured started in the area of the heater before it got into the walls and went up to the loft and the roof. Unfortunately, the building had no sprinkler system, which made their job harder. “Kincaid, take a crew inside and check for extension,” the assistant chief ordered. “What’s the status on the roof?” Kincaid asked. “I have reports it should hold.” “Okay, Chief.” Mark Kincaid grabbed three guys and they went inside, dragging a charged hoseline, axes and other needed tools with them to get their assignment done. Kincaid had two on the line, their orders to cool down any hot spots they found. He and the other firefighter began to check the walls for any more fire. “Cap, I think it’s in this wall,” Dan Maguire told him. They took their tools and punched holes into the wall while the guys on the hoseline poured water into them. They worked at this for a short time until the alarm on one of his team’s airpacks went off signaling the bottle low in air. Kincaid ordered him and his partner out of the building while he and Joe Margolis remained inside. “We’ve got a little bit more to check, then we…” “Cap, did you hear that?” 6

At Cross Ends “Yeah, I did,” Kincaid answered as he looked around them. The noise they heard repeated itself, the two men looking at each other. Kincaid checked the ceiling again. What he saw made him push Margolis out of the room to safety. As the firefighter flew to the side, the ceiling and roof above them fell into the room. It came down trapping Kincaid beneath it. **** “Let’s get in there and get Kincaid out,” the chief ordered. Firefighters from four departments worked feverishly to dig out a brother trapped in the rubble of an interior collapse. Two firefighters manned a hoseline in case they were needed. They periodically opened up the nozzle to a fog pattern in order to keep the dust levels down. Finding Kincaid and quickly digging him out of the fallen debris, they took him out to the medical team. The paramedic examined him, then called for a helicopter. “How is he?” Chief Stone asked. “Not good. He needs to be flown out of here.” “Fly him into Bethesda. It’s his…” “But what about…” “He wrote an order that I have in his personnel file. If he’s injured and can’t speak for himself, I have his trust to carry out his wishes. He wants Bethesda.” “That shoots protocol to hell.” “So do it. He has his reasons.” “I don’t like this, Chief.” “Just do it.” The paramedic nodded. Two firefighters assisted with loading Captain Mark Kincaid into the MedEvac helicopter waiting to fly him out. The paramedic rejoined the fire chief and watched it lift off and fly away. “Chief, unless you’ve got a damned good reason, I’m going to officially lodge a complaint.” “He’s government, Armand,” Stone advised him. 7

At Cross Ends “I should have known. I’m sorry, Chief.” “No problem. I understand.” **** “Life-Flight to Bethesda—how do you read?” “Clear—go ahead.” “We have a firefighter, victim of a roof collapse. He’s approximately six foot tall, one hundred eighty pounds, late thirties. Vitals to follow.” Shortly after the transmission went through, the pilot touched down at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. The hospital catered to Navy and Marines, politicians and government bigwigs. Sometimes, depending on prior military service, an occasional president went to this hospital for treatment. It seemed odd that a fire captain from Virginia would demand this facility but they’d encountered stranger. The pilot set down on the helipad where a trauma team waited, ready to take their patient to treatment. The flight nurse gave the doctor on the team Kincaid’s vitals and an update on his sustained injuries. “Doc, he’s got trauma to the head, back and stomach. He had a leg trapped under heavy debris. He’s been unconscious since they pulled him from the collapse.” “We’ll take it from here.” The team sped Kincaid into the hospital while the medic stopped at the desk to finish his paperwork and requisition some supplies. He still thought it strange that a Virginia fire captain injured in a building collapse had given explicit instructions to be flown or taken to Bethesda—definitely a first in his career. **** Mark Kincaid—firefighter and government operative—his occupation had been a secret to everyone but the President and, at most, three others. To anyone else, he dabbled successfully in 8

At Cross Ends world finance giving him a convenient reason for unexpected travel and disappearing for extended periods of time. His chosen profession took him into covert situations to ensure the protection of the Chief Executive, the vice president and several others. He answered directly to his commander-in-chief and the head of the Justice Department, plus one under-secretary. One of his benefits had been exclusive medical treatment at Bethesda, even though he’d graduated from West Point and had been a member of the Rangers and Delta Force. They had his entire history, including various knife wounds, gunshot wounds, broken bones and strange illnesses. His file had been deemed highly classified and only two doctors had full access to it. “Doctor, his BP is falling,” a nurse stated as they entered the hospital. “Get him into trauma one and start an IV with the following...” He gave her a short list, the nurse nodding as she wrote. “Yes, Doctor.” Doctor Harmon Spencer knew Mark Kincaid’s file, along with Mark’s social security number and other personal information. He, along with Lieutenant Commander Robert Baldwin, had been the only two doctors to treat Kincaid. This time, he knew his friend had come closer to meeting Death then he had in a long while. Granting the facts that Kincaid had been shot, stabbed, starved and stung, plus several other maladies, a building collapsing on him definitely topped his list of injuries. Spencer called for a portable X-ray unit, then questioned the nurse on exactly how he’d been found. “On his back, sir.” “Was he wearing any breathing apparatus?’ “Yes, sir.” “I want a skull series, as well as spinal, chest and limbs done.” “Yes, Doctor Spencer.” “Has he stabilized yet?” 9

At Cross Ends “Somewhat. His pressure is no longer dropping.” “Good. Clean him up and treat what you can. I need an OR waiting as I suspect we’ll be doing a splenectomy. I don’t like the feel of his stomach. He’s bleeding internally, I’m sure. I want a neurologist, also.” “Yes, Doctor.” He turned to his friend and looked at him. “Well, Kincaid, let’s see you heal from this one.” **** Spencer walked into the recovery room some twenty hours after Mark Kincaid had been brought into the hospital. He checked his patient’s chart, snickering. Mark Kincaid could not do anything the easy way. While on the table, his heart stopped once and his lung collapsed. Now hooked up to several monitors, Kincaid rested while physically trying to recover. “He’s not an easy patient,” Spencer commented as he read the chart. “He’s been stable since they brought him in here.” “He won’t be when he comes out of it. He does not take to anesthesia well.” “Should I do anything special?” “Do not restrain him. Talk to him, soothe him… You know—use your charm.” “Thanks, Harmon.” “You’re welcome, Rusty.” Checking Kincaid himself, Spencer noticed his sandy blonde hair showed signs of graying—considering his job and his lifestyle, no wonder. He had known Kincaid for years, treating him exclusively with Lieutenant Commander Baldwin as ordered by the White House. Kincaid belonged to an extremely select and elite group of operatives who specialized in covert operations. He had seen this man through hell and back, their friendship described as closer than brothers. 10

At Cross Ends Spencer nodded to the nurse who joined him. “Keep an eye on him. Once he’s around and calm, call me. As I told you before, comfort him and talk to him. Don’t make him fight you.” “Yes, Doctor Spencer.” He left the recovery room and headed straight for his office. He locked the door behind him after he entered and went to his desk. He began the grueling ritual of calling Kincaid’s boss at State. “I thought I’d advise you that MK is here in critical condition. He was caught in a building collapse—his back was injured, his leg fractured, one rib splintered and we dealt with a collapsed lung. His spleen’s been removed, too. He’s going to be laid up for a while but, knowing him, I predict he’ll make his own recovery schedule, as usual. I will keep you informed on his progress.” Spencer hung up. The fun would now begin. **** Mark Kincaid and three firefighters entered a building to overhaul and check for extension. They had found hotspots in one wall, the others showing no signs of involvement. He had been careful to keep track of their surroundings needing to keep his team safe. One of the hosemen’s pack alarms went off to warn them the air in their self-contained breathing apparatus had almost been used up. He ordered him and his partner out while he and the other firefighter continued working on the hotspots. “How long do you have?” he’d asked. “Maybe fifteen minutes, Cap.” “Let’s get what we can and pull out.” “Okay,” he said as he pulled more of the wall down so Kincaid could hit it with the water. As they worked, Kincaid surveyed the wall and the ceiling above them. Water rained down from above, Mark keeping an eye on it. He felt a shudder through his boots and saw what he took to be a vibration. 11

At Cross Ends “Stop! The place is shaking!” he yelled to his partner as he shut down the line. “Time to get out. Now!” He followed the other man out and stopped when he heard another noise that shook him to the core. He shoved the other man out of the room right before he took the brunt of the collapse. He fell back, his spine slamming against the cylinder of the airpack. His personal alarm began sounding when it sensed he’d made no move for a set period of time. He felt relief knowing the others would be able to find him. He found enough room for his hand to move to his radio. This gave him hope as he tried to key it, another safety feature—the locator would tell dispatch and they would notify Incident Command. “Firefighter down,” he slowly said, taking the chance someone would hear him. “I need help…” Mark Kincaid saw the entire incident over and over again. He kept going back over it but didn’t understand why. At this point, he couldn’t be sure if he was dead or alive or what. He could feel a great deal of pain throughout his body—a feeling he’d become all too familiar with. His eyes fought to open and see—finally successful. Closing them quickly and trying to adjust to the white light surrounding him seemed to take an eternity. He recognized the recovery room and knew where he was. “Sir, are you all right?” “How long have I been here?” “A while. You were in surgery for a long time.” “Get Harmon Spencer.” “I will. He’s in the building. Can you relax long enough for me to call him?” “Yeah, I guess so. I’m not going anywhere, am I?” “Not unless you can walk without crutches. One of your legs is splinted.” 12

At Cross Ends “I guess I’m staying here.” He closed his eyes and relaxed. He had survived another attempt to get him to meet his maker. “You’re a hard man to kill, Mark, aren’t you?” “I guess I am,” he replied as he opened his eyes to face his doctor and friend. “What the hell happened?” “How much do you remember?” “Up to the ceiling coming down on me but after that, not much.” “Near as I’ve been told, they found you on your back. The pack is what did the damage to your spine. We added some support in there to help strengthen it. Your leg was trapped under a beam; the fracture splinted.” “Why does my gut feel like a war zone?” “We had to repair your lung after it collapsed and we removed your spleen.” “Why?” “It ruptured and you were bleeding internally. Don’t worry, your scorecard’s been updated.” “Great,” Kincaid said, trying to hold back his amusement. His file had grown to be inches thick and this would add another one. “Now that you’re back with us, I’ll get you into a room.” “Spence?” “What?” “Thanks.” “Anytime, friend.” **** Kincaid spent the better part of three weeks at the medical center. Spencer had found one or two things he wanted to keep an eye on while he had Mark in residence. He knew it would be the only way the man would take the time to heal. His friend would have been described by his father as being mule-headed. “When do I get out of here?” he asked at the beginning of the third week. 13

At Cross Ends “In a day or two.” “That’s great news.” “Antsy?” “You’ve got it. You know me.” “Yeah, I do. I remember the one time you were so restless that we had to tie you down.” “First and last time.” “Which is why I told the nurse to soothe your tortured soul when you came around.” “Good call,” Mark said, grinning. “You never told me why you react that way.” “I’d been in South America and got caught. I was put into shackles against a wall and left that way for several weeks while the Sandinistas tortured me for information. Those people take it to a whole new level. I’ve been claustrophobic ever since.” “I can see why. I wish you had told me before.” “Between you and me, I was ashamed.” Mark Kincaid had been in the business a long time. He’d finally found a place to settle down and live quietly in Northern Virginia. He’d joined the local volunteer fire department and found he could disappear into a normal life until the national interest called. “I see. There’s one thing you should know.” “What?” “You have nothing to be ashamed of. You’ve gone through more than the next dozen men I’ll ever meet. You’ve survived odds most would not have. One recurring fear I think can be considered acceptable.” “I guess so. Hell, I don’t know.” “You’re too hard on yourself. I mean—hell, you pushed the other firefighter to safety then you took the brunt of the collapse. You’re a good man, Mark, and I think we’re damned lucky you are on our side.” “Thanks, Spence. I needed to hear that.” 14

At Cross Ends “Anytime. By the way, I know it’s ridiculous to tell you this but I’ll say it anyway. Stay off Pasha for a little while longer. I know you won’t but I had to tell you.” Spence laughed. Kincaid grinned as he thought of his favorite Arabian stallion. When he had the opportunity, they took off for hours at a time. He owned several Arabians, thoroughbreds and quarter horses on his sprawling farm. He could not wait to get home to it. They talked a while longer. Spencer had notated his chart and prepared to leave when several men entered the room. Kincaid’s heart slammed against his chest at the unexpected visitor’s entrance. **** “Attention on deck!” Kincaid saluted from his bed and Spencer stopped in his tracks. An admiral, two men in suits and a distinguished-looking man came into the room, one of the plainclothes closing the door behind them. “Stand easy or, in your case, Commander, rest easy.” “Sir,” Kincaid said. “How do you feel?” “Better, Mister President. To what do I owe this visit?” “I have two reasons for being here—first, the annual check-up and second, to see how my good friend is doing.” “Thank you, sir. Let me introduce Doctor Harmon Spencer, good doctor and close friend. Spence, I’m sure you recognize the Chief Executive of the United States.” “It’s an honor, sir.” “My gratitude goes out to you and your staff for keeping him alive. You’re a huge asset.” “And you pay him extremely well,” Kincaid added. “How are you doing with rehab, Commander?” “Good, Admiral. Spence says I’m out of here in a few days.” 15

At Cross Ends “Great news.” The President smiled before he asked the others to wait outside for him. He waited until the door closed before turning to Kincaid. “Mark, I need a personal favor.” “Anything, sir, you know that. How can I help?” “My goddaughter disappeared a little over a month ago, around the same time you were injured in the collapse. Her father and I are sure she’s been kidnapped.” “Ransom?” “No.” “How do you figure…” “Her Range Rover was found on the road leading to her family’s estate. She was gone and the responding officer lay dead beside it. Somebody had shot him twice, close range. The car exploded but the lab said it had been rigged. We found her briefcase, or what was left of it, with her wallet.” “Anything else found by the lab?” “Yes, they found traces of a drug on the steering wheel.” “And?” “The lab can’t put a name to it but it’s one that’s very effective when absorbed through the skin.” “Who is she?” Mark asked, knowing there had to be more. “Riley Devane.” “As in daughter of William Devane, the financial whiz and philanthropist?” “One and the same. Bill and Annabelle live in Florida most of the year giving Riley the estate.” “Any candidates as to who may have done this?” “Several, but my suspect is Graham Cross.” “Any special reason?” “Bad blood between Bill and him for several reasons.” “They are?” 16

At Cross Ends “Bill has bested him in everything over the years, including marrying Riley’s mother. Cross couldn’t handle it and has spent the last twenty-five years trying to ruin Bill. As far as the three of us can tell, Riley’s never met him which, to me, makes him the top one on my list.” “I can’t do anything yet.” “That’s why I waited until now. The FBI has put the case aside for lack of evidence and information. Their idea is she ran off but why the elaborate set-up? That and she was returning from a dinner meeting that sealed a lucrative job for her.” “Doing what?” “She’s an architect.” “I need whatever y’all have so I can figure out how I want to proceed.” “Already at the farm waiting for you.” “I’ll do what I can, Mister President.” “Mark, I appreciate it. Her parents are beside themselves.” “I can imagine.” “Use whatever resources you need. You can work with whomever but personally, I would like to keep things as low-key as possible.” “As always, Mister President.” “Thanks, Mark,” the President said as they shook hands. “Sir, what is your take on this?” “My goddaughter is beautiful, independent in many ways, talented, smart and wealthy. Taking her away from her parents is the worst thing Cross could do to them—and her. He’ll use her to get to Bill and hurt Annabelle and when he’s through with her… Well, I can only imagine the worst.” “I’d like to bring Spence in on this. You know his record and, if she needs emergency treatment, I’ll need him.” “Done, I’ll have Admiral James take care of it.” “I’ll keep you advised as to progress.” 17

At Cross Ends “Don’t. Just bring Riley home. The admiral’s been told to give you carte blanche and feel free to use extreme prejudice. That’s an order you never heard from me.” “Yes, sir.” “Thank you, Mark. Get to it as soon as you are able.” “Yes, sir.” “Mark, be careful. Cross doesn’t care what he crushes or who he takes down to get what he wants. The SEC is doing a financial investigation on him dealing with insider trading but they’re a long way off from putting him away. You are our only hope.” “Yes, sir.” The two men shook hands before the President left the room. Mark put his head back on the pillows and thought. Riley Devane must be damned special if the Chief Executive personally asked for my help. What the hell am I getting into? Whatever it is—it’s important to the President and I will do anything for the man. **** Riley Devane, stunningly beautiful with raven black hair, had been listed as missing, though the Federal Bureau of Investigation had pushed her case to the side figuring she’d disappeared on her own accord. “Geoff, why?” Kincaid asked. “Rich kid who has enough money to drop out of sight without a trace.” “You’ve got a dead cop, a drugged steering wheel and a car sloppily blown to bits after it’s lodged into a tree. She is supposedly taken to a hospital by a doctor to save time but she never registered in any of the area hospitals and you shove the case aside?” “Where did you get your information?” “I have my sources.” “Who in Justice is interested?” “I can’t say. I can only say I’ve been asked to look into it and find her.” 18

At Cross Ends “She’s probably in Europe.” “That’s the most idiotic answer you’ve ever given me,” Kincaid chastised. Geoffrey deWalt had been the agent assigned to the Devane case and he usually acted more professionally. Something struck Mark as strange. “Mark, I’ve gotten a lot of crap on this case. The girl’s father is a pain in the ass. Everyday he calls and pesters me about our progress.” “My God, Geoff, he’s a worried father.” “Who is trying to use any influence he can to make it the Bureau’s only case.” “Can you blame him? What if it was Shelley?” The other man fell silent. Kincaid knew he’d hit a nerve. “Geoff?” “I’m here. You’re right—I hadn’t considered that.” “Let me take it. Leave this case as it is. If someone did abduct her, they’ll think they’ve got some room to breathe and might slip up.” “Sounds like you’ve got a suspect.” “Not yet,” Mark lied. “I’ll copy the file to you. It shouldn’t raise any eyebrows if someone in the higher-ups is interested in this. They’ll figure the old man called in a favor or paid somebody off.” “You get more cynical by the moment.” “Comes with the territory, I guess.” They laughed as Mark agreed with deWalt. “Hard not to in this business.” Kincaid hung up and shook his head. This job will not be easy. He read over the information from the President. Devane, Riley Amanda…age 26…daughter of William and Annabelle Devane… Residence—Devane estate, Manassas, Virginia. 19

At Cross Ends Profession—Architect/artist…highly liked and busy…larger accounts: Most recent—Henry Lockwood on property in Maryland. Last seen with Lockwood at dinner hours before reported missing and accident. See report. Mark looked for anything having to do with that meeting and found nothing. He looked up Lockwood in the phone book and called him. “Lockwood.” “Mister Lockwood, Mark Kincaid.” “How can I help you?” “I need to ask you some questions about Riley Devane.” “I’m very disappointed with her.” “How so?” “I had contracts for her services signed and returned to her office. She never sent them back and there’s been no answer when I’ve called. An explanation would have been preferred. I engaged her due to her reputation and she blew me off.” “When you met with her, did she seem worried?” “No, very professional and impressive. I decided to go with her designs, then…” “About dinner—did anything seen strange when you both left?” “I left before her, so I wouldn’t know.” “And you don’t remember anything out of the ordinary that night?” “Why all the questions? We had dinner and a handshake agreement she chose to ignore. I left, she remained behind. Why?” “She was involved in an auto accident on her way home.” “Is she dead?” “No, but she went missing. We believe she’s been abducted.” “Abducted? What an ass I’ve been.” 20

At Cross Ends Kincaid hung up. He knew by the way Lockwood talked, he knew nothing about the disappearance unless he was putting on a good act. He went back to the file and learned a little more about the woman he sought. Dark hair—raven black; fair complexion; violet eyes. Height—5’8” and slim Mark looked at the photo of Riley Devane and his heart skipped several beats. He looked at someone who personified his idea of perfection. He stared at the woman with the beautiful purple eyes and a smile that struck him as infectious. He sat back, closing his eyes. She appeared before him, begging him to help her. It jolted him and he knew that somehow, she was still alive. He knew he had to find her and rescue her from Cross’ clutches. Mark opened his eyes and stared at the photo. “I will get you away from him.” Kincaid already knew his adversary. Hell, how many years has it been? **** Kincaid had been assigned to look into Graham Cross five years earlier, if he remembered right. He had orders to find Cross and stop him after the man had attempted to blackmail a member of the previous administration. Mark chased him from city to city in the United States, found he had secure bank accounts in Switzerland, the Caymans and Rio de Janeiro. The man proved himself guilty of violating the RICO Act and others but chose to hide in countries that wouldn’t extradite him back to America. Now, he turns up again—this time going after one of Virginia’s oldest and wealthiest families. He would take the guy down. After all, he owed Cross in part for his forced vacation with the Sandinistas once Mark had learned of the man’s connection by accident. Cross became hostile at how close Kincaid had gotten to his illegal businesses and criminal ties. He had Mark taken and held by 21

At Cross Ends the terrorists, who kept Mark chained and tortured. Mark would never forgive and would always remember. “You’re mine, you bastard!” He went to a hidden room where he had a state-of-the-art computer set-up. He could access any information from any source especially easy since he had the highest security clearance that could be issued. He began to type: Cross, Graham. Once it came up on the screen, he read the information as he scrolled through it. He jotted down some notes, saved the file to a disk and filed it with everything else. Then he looked at his notes. Bought private island in Caribbean from Philadelphia physician Nathan Bryant—deceased. This piqued his curiosity so he searched through the real estate transfers for the last five years. Something had to turn up. While he waited, he called Spencer to ask him to look into Nathan Bryant’s history to see if there might be any connection to Cross or if it was just a coincidental deal. Leaving a message, Mark started thinking as he hung up. Putting his leg up to ease the dull throb in the injured area, he waited for the data to come through. Promptly, he fell asleep and saw only one image in his dreams— Riley Devane.

22

At Cross Ends

Chapter 2 Riley Devane woke and found herself in a room she did not recognize. She looked around finding herself bathed in bright sunlight and warmth, though periodically chilled from cross breezes blowing into the room. The curtains blew in and out, graceful movements in the sheer fabric. From outside came the sound of water breaking against the shore. The ocean… Where am I? She tried to see out to find out if she was right but the sudden movement of her neck and head caused severe pain, stopping her. Looking around again, she realized she lay in a large bed. Over her stretched a comforter while above her, mosquito netting hung down. Pulled to the corners, the netting gave a soft impression of her surroundings. She began to remember and realized something strange had happened to her. Her last memory had been driving home in her Range Rover. She closed her eyes and relived the accident. How did I wind up here—in a place like this? Her hand slowly moved to her neck finding something rigid held her head in one position. She figured she wore a neck brace and desperately tried to remember anything about that night. What happened? “Ah, you’re awake. ¿Qué tal?” a woman asked her. “I don’t know. Where am I?” “You are in your room on a private island in the Caribbean. You’ve been recuperating here for almost a month.” 23

At Cross Ends “A month? That’s impossible.” “I’m afraid not.” “I’ve got contracts to sign tomorrow, jobs to finish… I…” “You’ve been here four weeks.” “This isn’t possible. I’ve…” “You’ve got one thing to worry about and that’s getting better.” Riley became agitated, the woman giving her a sedative to calm her. She quieted and the woman smiled. “Tell me what’s wrong with me. Why am I here?” Riley asked, her words slurred from the medicine injected into her arm. “You’ll find out soon enough.” **** “Señor Cross, she woke up and she asked a lot of questions. She keeps denying she’s been here for the past four weeks.” “You did not tell her my name?” “No, Señor.” “Bueno. I want her to find out when I’m ready to tell her. Now that she’s awake, are you ready to begin her treatments?” “Sí, Señor. She had the first injection before you came in here. She will be told it’s a sedative, painkiller or vitamins. Meanwhile, her body will adjust to the drug therapy and its regimen.” “Bueno, Seraphina, bueno. When can I begin programming her?” “I’m not sure. It depends on her body and if her system willingly adjusts.” “As long as she submits to my will or anything I tell her to do.” “Sí, Señor, as you wish.” Seraphina left the room, Cross alone with his thoughts. He would use Riley Devane to bring down her father, a bastion of Old Virginia wealth—something he despised. Devane had looked down on him and taken away the woman he’d decided he would marry when she wed Devane. Now, I have their daughter—the game begins… 24

At Cross Ends He had bought the island from a deceased doctor’s estate once he found it lent itself to his plans perfectly. The boat ramp had been designed to be the only way on or off the little tropical paradise. Cross had it set so the boat came with supplies once a week, unloaded and returned to the next island over. He made sure he had been the only one to know the schedule and the back-up plan in case of emergency. A huge garage sat on the far end of the island housing a small helicopter, Cross the only one who held the key and it sat locked in his safe. Part of his treatment would allow Miss Devane freedom to move about her prison without worry of her escaping. It would definitely lure her into a false sense of security. Two things he had yet to decide—first: would he marry this stunning woman, an act which would truly kill her father; and second: would he use her, kill her and deliver her remains to her parents to prove his superiority? It didn’t bother him that Devane’s daughter had become an innocent pawn in his plan of revenge, as long as his enemy fell. **** Riley calmed down but the collar and the apparent loss of time in her life bothered her. She tried to sit up, fighting the blinding headache overtaking her. Slowly, she tried to stand but felt wobbly, ignoring it. If she had been in bed for a month, no wonder. She made it to the end of the bed and supported her body against the bedpost. The cool feel of the polished wood against her skin made her feel better. Closing her eyes, a breeze blowing by her cooled her since she felt unusually hot. What is wrong with me? “Señorita, you should be in bed.” “I need to get out of bed. I need to get out of here and go home to my father. I need to see my doctor.” “Soy médico, Señorita.” “What?” she asked puzzled, her Spanish limited. 25

At Cross Ends “I am a doctor. I have been treating you since the night I found you in your car. The policeman waited for emergency help but I had him put you in our car and took you to the hospital. While we examined you, I found something strange. You were unconscious, so I took the responsibility of bringing you here.” “Where is here?” “You are at a private clinic in the Caribbean. At present, you are the only patient, so you virtually have the place to yourself.” “You said you found something strange.” “It seems you have a rare blood disease. It tends to weaken the body causing unconsciousness, trouble seeing, blackouts to start with… You suffered an incident when you crashed.” “I need to see my own doctor.” “Evidently, he doesn’t have any expertise in this or he would have found it sooner. If I hadn’t found it, you could have died or killed someone in the process.” “What’s the treatment?” “You’ve been receiving vitamins and medication designed to combat the disease and stop its progression.” “Is it fatal?” “As of now—yes. The drug you are taking is experimental.” “How long do I have?” “We’re hoping it’ll cure you.” “We’re? Who…” “The head of this…” Seraphina said, as her hands indicated the area around them. “He’s very optimistic.” “I want to meet him.” “When he’s ready. He’s a very private man.” “What is his name? By the way, who are you?” “I am Doctor Seraphina Collins,” the blonde-haired woman answered. Riley took a better look at her as she noticed a very cold, by-the-book professional in the body of a thirty-five year old 26

At Cross Ends woman. She wore glasses with dark frames and her clothes gave no hint to her personality. “Doctor Collins, if I’m dying, I want to enjoy what time I have left. I want to be with my family.” “No, you’ve just started the regimen. You can’t leave until we know how you and it will react.” “You don’t understand. I want to see my family and some of my friends. They must be worried.” Riley saw Seraphina’s face when she mentioned this. “I sent word to your father about what happened. I’ve been in contact with him often. He understands the concern we have for your health,” Seraphina lied, checking her watch. “Why can’t I talk to him myself?” “Rules, Señorita, all for the recovery of the patient. It’s time for your next dose.” Seraphina gave her two pills that Riley hesitantly took. Then she slowly made her way to a chair on the balcony. “If you don’t mind, I’d like to catch some air. I need to think.” “Of course,” Seraphina assured her, helping her to a chaise lounge in the warm sun. The gown she wore caught by the breezes, the soft gauze fabric clung to her body. Her long dark hair blew behind her as the breeze comforted her. “Thank you, Doctor Collins.” “Seraphina, por favor. After all, we are going to get to know each other very well.” “I guess so,” Riley answered, confusion setting in. What the hell is happening to me? **** Graham Cross watched what went on between Seraphina and Riley. Pleased with her performance, Cross waited for her to join him. “Very nice,” he complimented as she walked into the room. “Gracias, Señor Cross.” 27

At Cross Ends “When will she be ready?” “Tomorrow, I think. She’s accepting the fact she needs the treatment, which makes it easier to drug her. As long as she remains like that, I can give her your hybrid and you can go from there.” “Excellent, you’ve done well.” “Look at who I have for inspiration. I wouldn’t do this for anyone but you.” “Then let me reward you, my dear.” **** Mark Kincaid went through everything he had been given over and over again. Something bothered him and he couldn’t put his finger on it—something was very wrong. He got up and walked to the other side of the computer room. A few moments later, he realized he had been pacing. The phone rang, Mark answering it. “Kincaid.” “It’s me. I did the checking you asked me to. Nathan Bryant had a strange history. He went to Penn State, had a comfortable practice on Philadelphia’s Main Line but he became more and more wrapped up in an unsuccessful and very one-sided love affair with a married woman who, it turned out, was extremely devoted to her husband. The husband—a Texas Ranger—went missing for just over a month and Bryant did his best to get her to forget the loveof-her-life. He bought the island with the intention of abducting her and taking her there. It’d been perfect for his plans and, I think, the same goes for this case.” “How did Bryant die?” “The Ranger shot him defending his wife and his life. From what I found out, Bryant’s mind had begun to leave him.” “So his involvement with Cross is coincidental?” “I would say so. Bryant did get himself mixed up with a guy who had sworn revenge against the Ranger but the plans they made didn’t go Bryant’s way.” 28

At Cross Ends “What do you mean?” “The guy was supposed to take out the Ranger and two others so Bryant could take off with the guy’s wife. It didn’t happen.” “Interesting.” “I was able to get the information on the island for you. I’ll bring it by in a little while when I come out to check on your recovery.” “I’ll see you later then.” “Put on some steaks and I’ll bring the beer.” “Works for me.” Mark thought about what Spence had just told him. It had been too perfect that Cross had gotten the property when he did but that fact no longer concerned him. The fact he had a secure place to keep a hostage incommunicado worried him. What has the man done to her in the weeks he’s held her? Is Riley Devane even alive? He picked up the police report again but, while the case remained open, the investigation had been set aside and Riley Devane had become a statistic. The police thought her to be in Europe, where she more than likely had not gone. The fact the murder of a police officer, a line-of-duty death, had been cast aside, angered him. One of their own and the local police had done no more investigating. Why? They should be hammering at the case to solve a brother’s killing but nothing. Why the attempt at covering it all up? He picked up the phone and called an associate at State. He asked for satellite monitoring of the island, telling the man he spoke with to have the info downloaded into his computer. This would give him some confirmation whether or not she was being held there and if she was still alive. Mark made another call, this one to a retired agent who still did surveillance work for the Justice Department. He lived in the Caymans, making it a perfect reason why Kincaid wanted him. 29

At Cross Ends “Nate, I need to know the comings and goings from that small private island off your southeastern coast. As far as I can find out, a boat goes out there once a week with supplies then returns. I need to know everything about those runs, including cargo, times— everything.” “Got it.” “Thanks, Nate.” Mark felt he had made some headway. He made another call, this one to the police chief of the department handling the Devane accident case. “Chief, my name is Mark Kincaid. I work for the State Department. Why did you shelve the investigation?” “We came to the conclusion the missing girl shot our officer in an effort to disappear. The effort evidently failed when he came on location at the accident and she shot him to leave no witnesses to her plan.” “The officer called for medics because of her condition.” “She was faking.” “Did you consider any other scenarios?” “No, why?” “Do you know who she is?” “No, why?” “Her father is William Devane. She was on her way home from a successful business meeting to the mansion at the end of that road.” “So? What are you saying?” “Did you look at the tracks to determine how many vehicles were there that night?” “No, why?” “From what I’ve learned, there were several. Obviously, her Range Rover and the police car but what about the other three sets?” “Three?” 30

At Cross Ends “The ambulance, the rescue and another vehicle that, from what I read in a supplemental report, tore out of the area and headed straight for the airport. You seemed to have missed a lot.” “So what you are saying is…” “Miss Devane was kidnapped and you wasted a good amount of time shoving this to the side with your so-called solution.” “Are you sure about this?” “Very. I know who did it and where she’s been taken.” “My God, what did I do?” “You took the easy way out.” “I’m sorry, Mister Kincaid. I…” “Don’t tell me, tell her parents. They’re the ones who have spent the last several weeks in uncertainty. Talk to the cop’s family…” “I can’t.” “You know, you’re like the investigators in fatal plane crashes that kill the pilot. They always surmise the cause to be a case of pilot error. They take the easy answer because the pilot can’t defend himself. Chief, that’s not the way to do it.” “You’re right. I can’t believe I let this happen.” The man went on and on until Mark stopped him. “Don’t worry about it. I have the case now. I’ll find out what in truth happened and you’d better hope nothing in the investigation comes back to your office or department.” Mark hung up. If he found out anything implicating the chief or his officers, he’d sink them. “My God, why does she haunt me like this?” he cried out. She had been on his mind twenty-four/seven since the President’s visit. He felt he had to save her. He wanted to make love to her. Damn it, Kincaid, you’ve fallen in love! His pager beeping brought him back to reality. Though not fully able to run calls yet, Kincaid still monitored dispatches and, if bad enough, he went to the station to help put the apparatus back 31

At Cross Ends in service for the next run. Listening closer, he heard it come over as a residential fire alarm. He decided against going because of the work in front of him. “Dispatch to units responding, homeowner tripped alarm and doesn’t have the correct code—wants apparatus response cancelled.” “Affirmative…” “Wants apparatus to cancel. Cancel…that’s it!” He grabbed the phone again, dialing the dispatch center. He asked the supervisor to have the dispatcher who took Riley’s call meet him with either the tapes of the incident or transcripts. “I’ll be by in an hour,” he told the man. An hour later, he had listened to the tapes and interviewed the woman who’d taken the call from Riley’s cell phone. Transcripts and notes in hand, Kincaid left the dispatch center with what he needed. First off, it had been on the tapes that the officer cancelled the rescue and medic because a doctor on location would treat Devane while taking her to a nearby hospital. The cop had the radio keyed when he’d been shot. He had just cleared Riley of murder, proving she’d been abducted. “First I get Riley back, then I go after that damned chief and his lazy department.”

32

At Cross Ends

Chapter 3 Riley dozed off, the warmth of the sun a comfort to her. She dreamed she had met the most perfect man. He stood over six foot tall, had full, thick graying hair, dark eyes… She saw him across the room when he came in and crossed the space between them to take her hands. She felt safe, as if nothing could hurt her. His deep voice told her he would keep her safe, the sound of it melting her. This was the man she had always imagined. Will he come to me? Would he carry her off, their lives… What lives? He’s a dream and I’m dying… Waking, Riley cried. The realization her life had taken the worst turn it ever could hit her hard. She wept, tears streaming down her face. Maybe she could find a way to end it all now before the disease became worse. “Riley, are you all right?” “I want to die now. I’m not worth anything to anyone like this.” “We can make you well again—I truly believe it.” “At least one of us does. I think I’d do one of two things right now if I could.” “What?” Seraphina asked with interest. “I want to die before it gets worse.” “No, you can’t mean that.” “I do.” “You said two things?” “I’ll do anything to live. I want my life back.” 33

At Cross Ends Seraphina smiled, comforting Riley. Their patient proved ready for the next phase of their plan. She left Riley long enough to bring her a glass of water. “Here, you need fluids. Drink this.” While Riley drank the water, Seraphina smiled. She’d dropped a powder into the glass. It then reacted with the liquid to become mind-bending to whoever ingested it. The drug left the mind open for training—hypnotism with a touch of opium. By the time they finished, she’d do anything to have her life back. Seraphina observed Riley fall under the influence of the tainted water. “Riley, can you hear me?” “Yes.” “Do you know who I am?” “Seraphina.” “Do you trust me?” “Yes, I think so.” “I’m going to give you some commands. They are simple but you need to obey them.” “Yes, all right.” “First, you will remember one important thing. When you hear the word ecstasy you will immediately fall into your present state. Elvis will bring you out of it. Do you understand?” “Yes.” “Good, now stand up.” Riley stood, her head spinning as if she were in a dance club. Light blinded her, though she couldn’t close her eyes. She saw everything. The sounds around her made her feel as if she stood in an echo chamber, loud and ringing. She tried to cover her ears but her hands hung at her side, powerless to do anything. “Go inside,” Seraphina commanded. She followed Riley into the suite, stopping her when she reached the center of the room. 34

At Cross Ends Riley’s head hurt between the lights and the noise, which seemed to be getting worse. “Are you all right?” “I don’t know.” “Do you want to go on?” “I guess so,” Riley answered while the thunder crashed in her brain. “I am going to give you several commands. You will do them without question or hesitation. You will not be hurt. Do you understand?” “Yes.” “Follow me.” Riley followed Seraphina out of the room and downstairs to the cellar of the house. As they walked, she barely noticed her surroundings. The lights, the thunder and Seraphina’s voice had her in their hold, her body responding but not to itself. They went into a room and she stopped when Seraphina told her to. A voice came from the shadows, not deep like the one in her dreams but with a decidedly British accent. Who… “Very good, my dear Doctor Collins. She looks to be recovering and adjusting to her circumstances.” “Yes, she’s just starting.” “I…” “Riley, rule one…” The voice knows me. “Speak only when you are spoken to. It keeps things simple—understand?” “Yes.” “Good. Seraphina has assured you that you will not be hurt. I will not hurt you either. This is part of your treatment. The drug is new and experimental. You will be my test case. Do you understand?” “Yes,” Riley answered, unable to fight his voice or Seraphina’s. “Good. Are you thirsty?” 35

At Cross Ends “Yes,” she answered mechanically. Seraphina handed her a glass of water, exactly like the one earlier. Riley drank it all. “Do not fall asleep,” the man’s voice commanded. “No sleep.” “Good. Seraphina, you have done well. Leave me with our patient.” “Yes, Doctor.” Riley sensed the woman leaving the room but she could not move to leave with her. Deep in her subconscious, she knew she had been placed in danger and in a position she could not get herself out of. “You will follow either my voice or Seraphina’s—is that clear? Did she give you the word which puts you into therapy?” “Yes—ecstasy.” “She told you the safe word which ends our sessions. You may say it now and never again.” “Elvis.” “Very good. Did Seraphina tell you about your sickness?” “Blood disorder.” “Did she tell you what will happen to you as the days pass?” “No.” “You will become disoriented. Your mind will leave you as you go mad. You will become violent and need restraint. This therapy, along with the drugs we’ve been giving you will help you to recover and cope with your condition. Do you trust me?” “Yes,” she replied, while deep in her subconscious, her sanity wondered. “I need to examine you first, then begin to teach you how to handle your illness.” “Yes, sir.” “Take off your gown.” Riley slid the gown slowly from her body, letting it drift to the floor. She sensed the man who spoke to her around her but she 36

At Cross Ends had yet to see his face. Her body felt like a lead weight, a feeling that scared her. Have I already lost control? “Step back to the wall,” he commanded. She did, feeling the chilliness of the hard surface as she shivered. She felt her arms lifted over her head, steel cuffs clicking around them. She saw him kneel down to do the same to her ankles. Riley looked at the man while questions ran rampant in her mind. “Do you trust me?” “I think so,” she replied, puzzlement in her voice. Why do they keep asking me this? What kind of therapy do I have to go through? A tear ran down her face, her emotions confused. “You will become accustomed to this. When the crazed violence overtakes you, this is where we will bring you until it passes. This is for your safety. Now, when you hear the word ecstasy, you will do everything you are told to do without question or hesitation. It will save your life or—at least—help make it easier.” “Yes, Doctor.” “My name is Cross and we will get to know each other intimately. Now, close your eyes and sleep until I wake you.” “Yes, Doctor Cross,” she mechanically said before closing her eyes and dozing as he commanded. “Good work, Seraphina. You’ve outdone yourself.” “Thank you, my love. I’m glad you are pleased.” “When is she due for the next treatment?’ “Several hours. You may want her waking up in her bed though.” “Good, I will take it from here. Go and rest. It will get more intense from here on out.” She smiled and kissed him, then left him alone with his captive. Relieved, she closed the door behind her because she didn’t wish to be a part of this phase of Riley Devane’s conditioning. **** 37

At Cross Ends Graham Cross heard the door close and the latch click. His beloved wife had gone, a wise decision on her part. He turned to his captive and trained his gaze on her. His nemesis had created a beautiful daughter with the woman who should have been his bride. Her skin held perfection as Annabelle’s had, Riley’s dark raven hair the same as her mother’s. Both women had violet eyes and natural beauty. Gazing down and following the lines of her body, he felt his own reaction grow and silently cursed. Cross went to her and ran his fingertips over her flawless skin. His hands cupped her gorgeous fair-skinned breasts while his thumbs played over her firming nipples. He whispered to her another order. “When you sleep as you do now, you will open yourself to me and me alone. You will do as I bid willingly and give yourself to me. You will call me master and be my submissive. If you are bad, you will be punished and you will beg for more. When you wake, you will not be aware of these extra sessions and will think any changes to you are due to the blood disorder. Do you understand?” “Yes, Master.” “Good. I will remove the restraints and you will kneel before me.” “Yes, Master,” she said, obeying him and immediately dropping to her knees once he released her. “Good,” he praised her as he walked around her. He stood behind her and told her to stand. She did, her body trembling. She seemed to be trusting and naïve to his plans. He took her hands and tied them behind her back, then walked in front of her. “Kiss me.” “Yes, Master,” she said, standing on her toes to reach his lips and chastely kissing him. He stood back and slapped her. “I said kiss, not some light peck,” he chastised. 38

At Cross Ends “Forgive me, Master. Please, I’m begging you for more of your…” she cried out as he repeated the slap, again grinning when she begged for more. “Now, do it right this time.” “Yes, Master.” She kissed him again, this time full on his lips while her tongue played over them. She leaned against him, his reaction becoming more evident. “Better, much better. When we do this part of the therapy, you will hear one word which will tell you when we are to begin. The word is slave. You will remember my words of instruction only after I, and I alone, have said the word to you. Do you understand, slave?” “Yes, Master. How may I please you?” “Perfect. You will fall back to sleep after I lead you back to your room. All of this forgotten until I say…” “Slave, Master.” “Good. One more thing. If at any other time you hear the word slave and you are not in therapy with me, you will not respond as I’ve ordered.” “Yes, Master.” “Stand back, slave, and part your legs.” “Yes, Master.” Graham Cross played with her, her breasts pushed up due to her hands bound behind her back. He kissed her nipples while his hand went between her legs. “Is my slave a virgin?” “Yes, Master,” she replied, Cross now overjoyed. Not only had he taken his enemy’s daughter but he would take her virginity while forcing her to have his child. Life just got better and better. **** Mark Kincaid and Harmon Spencer flew to Miami, where they picked up a private flight to the Cayman Islands. From the airstrip, 39

At Cross Ends they would head to a rental property on one of the smaller islands—their base of operations. He had the Justice Department set them up with new identities to ease their comings and goings. They used the covers of American businessmen in the islands to take care of some banking needs for offshore and sheltered accounts. Spence looked around him, amazed at everything that had been done in so short a time. “When you work for the Chief Executive, this is what you get.” “It’s amazing. I’ve seen them in pictures but the eternity pool is a work of art.” From where they stood, the quiet pool appeared as if it became part of the Caribbean. “Geoffrey definitely did his best. He made sure you have a room where you can treat her when we get her out of there. There are regiments of guards, both British and American, to keep the place as secure as a fortress, although you will not see them. There are several snipers positioned all over the property.” “What if he’s using mind-altering drugs?” “State’s best is on her way. There isn’t a suggestion she can’t crack.” “Who is she?” “Miranda Wallace.” “I know her by reputation. She debriefed some of the officers coming back from the Gulf War and Bosnia while they recovered at Bethesda.” “She’s helped a lot of the covert ops. She did me wonders after the Sandinistas held me. I would never have made it without her.” “When is she due?” “Tomorrow or the day after.” “Interesting. I look forward to meeting her.” “Have you checked out your office set-up yet?” “No, why?” “You may need some answers.” 40

At Cross Ends “To what?” “Let’s go take a look. I think you’ll have some questions.” They went down to the ground floor of the oceanfront sixbedroom house Geoffrey deWalt had leased for their unlimited use. He and Mark had figured at least a month, maybe longer depending on Riley Devane’s condition. When they came to the bottom of the stairs, Harmon Spencer stopped in front of him, looking at a state-of-the-art medical center set up for two patients. “Over to your right is the lab. They’re fully set up to run immediate blood testing, DNA if needed or any other lab work you feel is necessary. To the left are two patient rooms while the center is for examining and surgery.” Mark saw the look on his face—the same one he’d had on his face when Geoffrey explained the layout to him. “Mark, what the hell are you expecting?” “If they are drugging her, she may go through severe and violent withdrawal symptoms. She’ll have to be tied down for her own safety. Considering we have no idea what Cross’ game is, Geoffrey, Miranda and I need to be prepared for the worst.” “I’ll say you have,” Spence agreed while looking closer. “She’s more than likely better off dead.” “Maybe but I’d never tell the Chief Executive that.” “Good point. How long do you think she’ll need this kind of…” “It took me several months.” “What did happen? You don’t talk about it much. In fact, you’ve said more in the last several minutes than since your rescue.” Mark took a deep breath. “Graham Cross has been the department’s number one quarry for years. He’s bad news all the way around. I found him in Rio de Janeiro, safe and out of extradition’s hands. The idea was to kidnap him and smuggle him back to the United States. He found out 41

At Cross Ends somehow and turned the tables on us, taking us instead of us getting him. He killed my partner but decided to use me as a warning to leave him alone. I was moved to Columbia and Nicaragua, where I was held by the Sandinistas or one of their splinter groups. Because of his money, they held me in chains and tortured me, questioning me while testing drugs on me and anything else they could think of. When the DEA raided the camp, I was close to dying. I wanted to die but they put me under heavy sedation and flew me back to Bethesda and your capable hands. Miranda met the rescue helo when we landed in Caracas and took care of me, getting me over the effects of the drug therapy and the rest of the ordeal.” “That’s why you’re convinced this will all be needed?” “Yep, Cross likes to feel power. Drugs make it happen faster with little recourse from his victims. By the time he’s through, she’ll do anything he commands. Until Miranda gets through the conditioning, Riley Devane will be a time bomb waiting to go off.” “My God, what kind of sick son of a bitch is he?” “The very worst—one with no feelings.” **** Riley woke, rested and feeling better than she had for a long while, or so she believed. She rose from the bed and walked across the room to the bathroom. Stiff, it proved to be a slow task but she made it to the shower. “I’ll take care of myself for as long as I can,” she vowed as she turned on the water. She stood up and let the gown fall to the floor. Catching a glimpse of herself in the mirror, shocks coursed through her at the sight of the bruising to her face. “You’ll see bruising or marks on you that were not there before,” she remembered Doctor Cross telling her. “It’s from the disease.” Riley looked away, then took a shower. Her decline had started and only Seraphina and the mysterious Doctor Cross seemed willing to help her. Do you trust me? She kept hearing the same question over and over. 42

At Cross Ends Do I have a choice? Riley’s mind raced in circles trying to come to grips with her life. She walked toward the closet after she dried off and opened it to find dozens of dresses—all white. She found one she liked and pulled the hanger from the rack. She went to the bureau and checked all the drawers finding nothing else to wear. The only clothes she found hung in the closet. Riley put the slightly off-white peasant dress on. The top of it seemed to be a little big but she felt comfortable and didn’t care. It had full sleeves and the fall of the dress bared her shoulders. The full, floor-length skirt hung from a smock-stitched waist, gracefully flaring out as she walked. All-in-all, she felt very tropical and relaxed. She checked the mirror and gasped. She didn’t realize her nipples could be seen through the thin fabric—the same with the lower half of her body. This is not me! Hell, I’m not me anymore. She checked her back and saw the dress covered her while still exposing her to curious eyes. She decided to find something else to put on when Seraphina joined her. **** “You look rested, Señorita, and the dress looks beautiful on you. You chose the perfect one.” “For what?” “Your walk. It’s warm and breezy—you’ll be fine.” “Are you joining me?” “No, I think you’ll enjoy it more without anyone hovering over you. When you return, we can have lunch.” “That sounds wonderful.” She noticed the other woman staring at her. “What’s wrong?” “I just noticed the bruising on your face.” “I was told to expect it while the disease progresses.” “I’m sorry, Señorita,” she said as Riley closed her eyes, a teardrop falling. “I…” 43

At Cross Ends “Don’t. This is why you are here in this beautiful place where you can live in peace and with no shame.” Seraphina brushed Riley’s hair from her face. What has he done to her? She watched Riley venture onto the terrace then to the lawn. She shook her head, fear creeping through her as the harsh realization of the entire situation hit her. What the hell did I agree to? Who did I marry? **** Riley explored the gardens close to the huge house. She felt leery of going too far too soon. She’d walk further the next time but for now, she thought she’d go back inside. “Ah, Riley, good morning.” “Doctor Cross, you startled me.” “My apologies. I saw you out here and your beauty drew me to come see how you are feeling.” He wanted to see if she had any reaction to him but she only smiled at the man, his dark hair drawn back into a ponytail. “Thank you but I don’t feel beautiful. The bruising on my face—it scares me.” “I am sorry your disease is overshadowing things. In a wonderful place like this with the sun’s warmth and beauty, I want you to feel ecstasy, not sadness.” Cross watched her reaction. “Riley?” he asked, watching her stiffen into a trance. “Yes.” “Do you trust me?” “Yes.” “Remove your clothes.” Riley mechanically slipped the dress down her body. Absently, she felt the sun’s heat on her body, though she trembled slightly from the ocean breeze. Cross saw this then went on. He gazed at her staring at a flower in the garden while the breeze blew her hair. He pulled out a piece of cloth ready for the next step. “My slave, do you trust me?” “Yes, Master.” 44

At Cross Ends “When I call you slave, you will put your hands behind your back and part your legs. If you don’t, punishment follows and what will you do then?” “Beg for more, Master.” “Very good.” She stood like a statue, not moving. He grinned wanting to see how well she remembered her instructions. “I see you are a rebellious slave.” “Master?” “You are always disobeying.” “I’m sorry, Master. Do what you will—please.” She barely felt him tie her hands tightly behind her, her mind crying out for help. He pulled her to a bench where he laid her across his lap and spanked her. She cried out from the stinging pain and deep inside her, shock hit her hard but she begged for more. When Cross had exacted his punishment on her, he told her to stand. She did so, her legs parted. “That’s good but you will have to do better.” “Please, Master, tell me how to please you.” “Come here and kiss me.” “Yes, Master,” she said, quickly going to him, their lips meeting as she kissed his fully. She pushed his mouth open a little with her tongue trying to please him. “Very tasty,” he commented. “Slave, have you ever had a man make love to you?” “No, Master.” “Are you gay?” “No, Master.” “Do you want to experience that part of your life?” “I don’t know how, Master.” “I will teach you.” “Thank you, Master.” He led her to the wall at one end of the garden. He pushed her to bend over it, her nipples hard from the feel of the rough surface exciting them. He grabbed her hair with one hand while his other first checked her bound wrists, then went between her legs. 45

At Cross Ends He played with her, then shoved her legs further apart. She shook from being chilly and nervous. As Riley shook more, he knew she was experiencing new feelings, ones she would only remember in this part of his cure. While he brought her close to her personal edge, she trembled more, her hands strained against the fabric tying them together. She gasped as he told her not to utter a sound or she would be punished. Riley vaguely heard his fly open, the feelings within her driving her to a frenzied state. “Please, Master.” “Bad, slave,” he said, slapping her as she begged for more. He again took hold of her hair as he thrust his dick inside her. She cried out once more from being ripped apart. Pain seared her mind, her body shaking. The closer he got to his climax, the more hair he pulled. Riley cried out when he exploded within her, her breasts chafed from the wall. She felt something run down her leg but had no idea what. She trembled, unsure what he wanted her to do next. He spun her around and kissed her roughly, then beat her until she passed out. Just before she did, he said the word Elvis. Later, Riley came out of the session horrified. She looked at Doctor Cross, crying. “What happened?” “What do you remember?” “Nothing.” She looked down and saw blood trickling down her thigh. She felt sore and her ass stung. “You don’t remember taking off your dress and becoming violent.” “No, Doctor. Please tell me I’m not losing my mind already.” “Not quite but I had to restrain you. You began hitting me.” “I am so sorry, Doctor. Please, forgive me.” “There is nothing to be sorry for. You did nothing to be ashamed of. Remember, you are fighting a disease which is taking you over. You aren’t at fault.” 46

At Cross Ends “You’re being too kind.” Cross had another idea and decided to try it. “Riley.” “Yes?” “Ecstasy.” She stiffened again. He led her to a lamppost, retying her hands over her head. “Do you trust me?” “Yes.” “Now, my slave, once more.” Immediately, she parted her legs, her body waiting for him from the burned command in her mind. Cross took her again and reminded her not to make a sound. As he filled her, she cried out again. Cross, still within her, did two things. While he brought her to climax with one hand, he slapped her with the other for disobeying. “I’m sorry, Master. Please, I need more.” “You learn quickly. Not a sound,” he ordered as she felt another earth-shattering climax. Her body shook, Riley holding in her emotions. Pleased, he pulled back. “What does my slave want?” “Whatever my master wants.” “Very good.” He untied her hands, letting her stand for a moment. He led her into the house, throwing her dress over a chair. “When you wake, you will remember nothing. Do you understand?” “Yes, Master,” she said before he pulled back and punched her, knocking her onto the bed where she lay dazed. Her face bloody, it swelled where his fist had touched her. He looked at her body, bruised from earlier. He had taken a great deal from her and it delighted him. Devane’s daughter would go home to him a changed woman. Cross’ sadistic laughter echoed in the house. Seraphina came running, gasping when she saw Riley’s condition. “What did you do to her?” 47

At Cross Ends “Nothing except take a virgin. Clean her up and give her the medication.” “Yes, dear,” she said. What the hell is he doing to her? “What do you plan to do next?” she asked her husband. “She’s going to become pregnant. Think what her father will do when she comes home to him too far along for an abortion but far enough that he is reminded of me every day.” “Don’t you think that’s going a little too far?” “No. He ruined my life when he took Annabelle. Now, I have his daughter, I’ve taken her virginity and she will have my child. If anything, I haven’t gone far enough.” “But, darling…” “I know what I’m doing. Go get her next dose and give it to her in a few minutes. I want to keep at this until you tell me she’s carrying my child.” Cross’ cell phone rang. Seraphina could tell he had been given bad news. “What is it?” “Mark Kincaid. He’s in the Caymans and asking a lot of questions.” “Who are you talking about?” “The only man capable of bringing the House of Cross down.”

48

At Cross Ends

Chapter 4 Riley woke a short time later, sore and exhausted. She lay under the comforter feeling a renewed dread. “It’s time for your medicine.” “I hurt so…” “You’re bruised more. You’ve been bleeding more also.” Riley sobbed. Her death crept up on her too fast. She drank the water and felt like retching. “Do not fall asleep.” “Why?” she asked as the door to her room flew open. “I need to know one thing,” Cross demanded. “What?” “Who do you know with enough clout to get Mark Kincaid involved in this?” “Who’s Mark Kincaid?” “Don’t lie to me!” “I’m not. I don’t know. Oh, my God, my stomach,” she cried, doubling over in pain. “Help me!” “Answer my question!” “I don’t know, I swear it. Please help me.” “Oh, I will all right,” he said, yanking the comforter from her to expose her nudity. After saying ectasy, he tied her hands to the bedposts, then pulled a spreader bar out, shackling her ankles apart. “Who?” “I don’t know.” 49

At Cross Ends Cross did not get the answer he sought. He raped her, filling her with the seeds of future generations. He punished her while she pleaded for more. He left her hours later—beaten, bloody and bruised with no idea what he had done to her. “So, Daddy has connections but why Kincaid?” This angered him more than he wanted to admit. The fact it was Kincaid—the only man to not only escape his clutches, but who almost put him in jail—enraged him. Once he found out he had impregnated his enemy’s daughter, it would give him Riley’s date with Death because he would kill her and send her back to William Devane. Then he would concentrate on Kincaid. “Once more, Riley—who?” “I don’t know.” “No ecstasy then,” he stated as she went under again. “Slave, who has the clout to get Kincaid on this case?” “I have no idea.” Cross knew she told him the truth because the drugs would not permit her to lie. “Bad slave.” “Please, anything.” He came back to her with a piece of tape. He pressed it against her mouth, enjoying the growing terror in her eyes. “I am going to take you. You can cry all you want with no fear of my punishing you.” She nodded watching him strip his clothes off, then straddle her. First, he made her push her limit, her body telling him it desired more while betraying her sanity. He rammed himself into her, driving his dick inside her brutally. He wanted her in pain and needed her to know the truth. “Elvis,” he said. Riley looked at him and tried to scream. He drilled her again and told her his true identity. Taking her again, he 50

At Cross Ends told her he would force her to have his child, even though she shook her head. “Your daddy will not only hate me for this but you as well for letting it happen.” He shoved into her again, her screams muffled by the tape. Just as he was about to release again, he ripped the tape from her mouth. “You are no better than a whore, Riley Devane. I will make sure your father knows how you begged me to keep doing it.” He played her a tape of her pleading with him for more. “You bastard, I swear I will do everything I can to kill your baby. I won’t carry it. I can’t because of the disease,” she told him weakly, though he didn’t like the fact she was this venomous. “We’ll see. I’ll be back in a bit. We have our work cut out for us since I expect you to do what I tell you.” “I won’t.” “If you want to live, you will.” “Why me? I’m dying. I couldn’t carry a child to term anyway. Please…” He slapped her. “Tonight, it had better become fact or tomorrow, I’ll make your life hell. Maybe then you’ll tell me about Mark Kincaid.” **** “The boat sails to the island on Mondays but at different times. It takes supplies, visitors if there are any, and then comes back. The whole deal takes an hour or two to complete. The captain told me there are three people always on the island—a man and two women—plus a guard or two. He said the one woman appeared to be sick.” “Is there any way of getting on the island and coming back with him?” “He seems like he could be persuaded,” Nate answered. “Did you show him Cross’ picture?” 51

At Cross Ends “Yes. In fact, he gave a local artist an updated description of Cross and the women.” He handed Mark the artist’s sketches. The one of Graham Cross gave him the chills, past memories still fresh in his mind. He owed the man for the hell he’d suffered in South America. He looked at the other two sketches. The one woman he did not recognize. “I sent a copy to your office—in your name, by the way. You’ll get an answer soon.” “Good,” Mark said, gazing at Riley Devane’s picture. His heart rate quickened, his emotions wanting her in every way. Why does this woman I’ve never met haunt my mind? Why has she stolen my heart? “Mark, I did hear from the captain about something weird going on out there. He told me he made his usual delivery yesterday, and took a walk along the lower side of the island. He heard two voices—Cross and a woman. He told me he hid in the shadows because he didn’t want Cross to see him.” “If that had happened, the captain would have become one of the world’s missing person statistics,” Mark stated. “Anyway, he heard the woman begging to be punished. He heard Cross spank her and later beat her. He felt positive the woman was under some kind of control because nobody would act like that because they simply wanted it.” “Does he know for sure?” “At one time, he was a psychiatrist who used hypnosis as a tool in patient treatment. He picked up on three words he took as being controls—ecstasy, Elvis and slave.” “How did he come up with them?” “The way they were used. They had no place in the conversations or they were used alone. At the use of ecstasy, she stiffened, then he gave her commands. He then asked a key question used by many hypnotherapists or controllers.” “That is?” 52

At Cross Ends “Do you trust me?” “Go on.” “From what he told me, Cross uses a secondary control word. This had to be slave. He said after Cross used it, he began instructing her on stance. She displeased him and he spanked her. The sick thing is how she begged for more and his enjoyment of it.” “Anything else?” “Yeah, he raped her—several times. It sounds like he wants her pregnant for some reason.” “Shit!” “There’s something else—she mentioned the bruising had begun. He told her it was part of her disease.” “Classic game of control.” “What do you mean?” “If the subject is told they have a fatal disease and the treatment they are undergoing is experimental or off-beat, the victim goes along with it, looking for any cure. It sounds like he’s got her believing he can cure her, while he’s actually killing her between physical abuse and drug therapy.” “I hear Miranda’s on her way down here,” Nate commented. “Yeah.” “Good, if anyone can help her, it’s Miranda. She’s going to need the doc’s expertise since it looks like Cross has refined his talents.” “He sure has, the son of a bitch. I swear to God, I’ll kill him and think nothing of it.” “Mark, be careful. This guy is one sick puppy. From what I heard, he’s turning her into a submissive. She might go to his defense and turn on you.” “What was the word to take her out of his control?” “Elvis.” “Interesting.” 53

At Cross Ends Nate gave Mark some more information on the island and the house, then left. He would go see the boat captain about sneaking them on the island for some recon before they went in to get Riley Devane out and kill Graham Cross. The Chief Executive had given Mark the go ahead and this time, Cross would not get away. Mark knew firsthand what the monster could do and swore he would stop Cross—one way or another. **** Seraphina saw Riley’s pain when she woke. From where she sat in a chair by the bed, she watched her husband’s victim. She hated this woman since she would be the one having Cross’ heir. Seraphina hated the woman but she’d gone into this scheme with her eyes wide open. She knew of her husband’s obsessive hatred for William Devane and she’d agreed to help him. She loved the man that much. But since he had given her the secondary suggestion, Cross had spent his time with Devane’s daughter instead of her—his wife. His emotional state had gone from bad to worse and, with the new information about some guy named Kincaid, Riley Devane suffered from Graham Cross’ intense hatred of William Devane and this other man from his past. “Oh,” Riley groaned. “Señorita?” “I’m so sore. My body aches so much.” “You’ve been bleeding again. The disease must be progressing faster than we first thought.” “Give me something to kill myself.” “No, Doctor Cross would be upset if he heard that.” “He is not the one suffering, I am,” Riley said, painfully sitting up. The covers fell from her, her body naked. She had found herself more often than not waking up this way. At first, it bothered her but now, she didn’t care. “Help me to the bathroom. I think I’m going or be sick.” 54

At Cross Ends Seraphina helped her across the room into the spacious bathroom. “Do you want me to…” “No. I’d rather be sick by myself.” “I’ll be in the other room.” “Thanks.” Seraphina left as Riley heaved. She noted what their so-called patient was going through. If Riley was lucky, the drugs would do what she wanted and put an end to her life. Seraphina looked at her, then left Riley alone, her emotions mixed. Seraphina went to the closet, choosing a dress from the huge selection of white her husband had her buy for Riley. Another slipin type outfit with long flowing sleeves, the knit dress sparkled in the sun’s light. How I hate my husband’s toy… She heard Riley scream an agonizing one of horror. Seraphina knew why the moment she saw Riley look in the mirror. How can I live with this lie? The poor thing’s being tortured because of her family name. Why did I allow myself to become involved in my husband’s maniacal game? **** Riley sobbed, her body shaking from the horror of what she looked like. She sank to the floor, her mind disappearing to some safer haven. She could see herself, mist at her feet, though her body showed no bruising and hadn’t bled. She saw perfection. Then she heard a voice—a man’s voice—the voice from her dreams and it caused her to melt into its safety. Hang on—I will kill the bastard, I swear. Please hold on… I can’t. You can. I’m on my way. They’ve lied to you. She started. What does it mean to me? Am I seeing and hearing my knight because of a side-effect of the drugs they’re giving me? Again, she saw him. 55

At Cross Ends Help me. I’m trying. Stay with me. I’m trying to get you to safety. Slowly she pulled herself up, looking into the mirror at her reflection. She screamed again, realizing the bruising may have been coming from something or someone else. “Seraphina, I’d like to go outside today.” “A walk will do you good.” “I’d like to walk in the water. “A lovely idea and it is warm this time of year,” Seraphina told her while she handed the dress she’d chosen to Riley. “Here, this should be comfortable for you.” “Seraphina, why are there only white dresses and absolutely nothing else to wear? I do like lingerie.” “Doctor Cross felt it unnecessary.” “I see, I guess he didn’t hold much hope for my survival either.” “We felt the less you had to deal with, the easier your life with this illness would be.” “I see,” she said, adjusting the dress, her shoulders bare. She thought the choice had been perfect. “Before your walk, your medication.” Seraphina offered Riley the glass and she dutifully drank the clear liquid. For the first time since she had been given it, she wondered what was in it. She put the glass down, feeling light-headed. “Do not sleep. Take your walk. It’ll do you good.” **** Mark, Spence and Nate sailed to the island. Spence and Mark slipped off the ship, swimming toward a tree line on the beach. As Nate docked, he explained to the guard how the captain had taken sick and he would be replacing the other man for a few days, maybe longer. He also told the man meeting him that he would need to remain longer than usual since he heard a strange chatter 56

At Cross Ends from the motor and needed to check it out. Begrudgingly, the guard allowed it. Meanwhile, Kincaid and Spencer made it to shore and, as they hid in the trees, they waited for the right time. Unsure of when it would be, Mark fidgeted. He could feel Riley Devane’s presence on the island. The mere thought of being with her sent unfamiliar heat through him. Damn it, Kincaid! Love clouds the senses. Don’t do it! Too late, I’ve fallen in love with her. Can I keep my head straight long enough to rescue her? “Mark, what do you want me to do?” “Go check the house. You’re good at layouts if I remember right.” “What are you going to do?” “Check the property out. We’ll meet back here toward sunset. I want to figure out how to get her off the island tonight.” “Are you nuts?” “No, we have the element of surprise. Somehow, we do it tonight.” “Then I’d better get going.” “Be careful. I can only rescue one at a time.” They both snickered while shaking hands. Spence left him heading to the house. Mark watched him until he disappeared from sight, then checked out the small wooded area. He decided to watch the beach from where he sat. He did not have long to wait. **** Riley walked along the beach of her tropical…what could she call it? Vacation home, hospital, prison? Her thoughts went back to hearing the man in her dreams. Thinking of him, it came to her— they’ve lied to you. Those words burned in her mind, nagging at her. The beach felt hot until the warm Caribbean waters washed over her bare feet taking the sand with them as they receded. She 57

At Cross Ends had always loved the feeling when she’d walked the surf in Virginia Beach. God, I’ll never see the tide’s ebb there again. Tired, she refused to turn back. Seraphina had told her not to fall asleep. She couldn’t but didn’t understand why. Standing at the water’s edge, she breathed in the wonderfully fresh air as if for the last time. She sensed something different in her life, what, she didn’t know or have a clue about. “Riley.” She heard her name whispered from the trees. She looked toward the small grove of trees but saw no one. “Riley, come to me. I will take you away from here.” Riley slowly walked to the trees, looking for the man behind the voice in her mind. She carefully stepped down, her feet feeling every twig or root in her way. “Who are you?” “Riley, come a little further. I’m here to help you.” She headed for the point where the voice came from, finally finding him. “It’s you,” she exclaimed. “Excuse me?” “You—I see you in my mind. You keep telling me to hold on and you’ll take me away from here.” “I’m here to do just that.” “Who are you?” she asked, her head beginning to pound. “My name is Mark Kincaid.” “My God, you have to get out of here. He knows about you. Please, save yourself and forget me.” “I’m taking you away from here.” “I’ll only slow you down. I have…” “You’re fine. You’re coming with me.” “You don’t understand. I’m dying—too weak…” “They’ve told you that and are using drug therapy to control you. I know Cross.” 58

At Cross Ends “You do?” “Yeah, I’ve been after him for a long time.” “Then leave me here and go. I don’t want you hurt.” No longer able to stand being close to her like this, Mark pulled her into a kiss—long, deep and passionate. He held her face in his hands as she looked at him. “I’m sorry but I’ve wanted to do that since I first saw your picture.” “It’s all…right,” she stammered. Mark kissed her again, heat coursing through her body while making her feel wonderful. “Listen to me. I know he’s controlling your mind. I can give you a temporary suggestion to help you until we leave tonight. Can you trust me enough to help you?” “That’s what they always ask me.” “We don’t have much time. Will you let me do it?” “Sure.” “All right—ecstasy,” he said in a voice close to Cross’, Riley immediately falling into a trancelike state. “No matter what happens, you will insist on seeing the sunset from this beach and you want to be alone. I will come for you then. Do you understand?” “Yes, I do.” “You don’t need any word. My command is strong enough. Also, if Cross asks, you do not know Mark Kincaid.” “No word, no Kincaid.” “Slave,” he said, watching her move into Cross’ favorite position. Damn it! “Elvis.” She came out of it as if nothing had happened. “Riley!” Cross’ voice cut through the peaceful beauty. “Oh, no. You’ve got to…” Mark pulled her into another kiss, Riley responding and obviously desiring more. 59

At Cross Ends “Riley, it’s about time. I’ve been looking for you. It’s time for your therapy.” From where he watched, Mark held his breath. The man he had sworn to kill stood not one hundred yards away. If Riley had not been next to him and in danger, he would have taken care of the man who had taken two long years from his life. “I’ve been exploring. I want to see everything, experience what I can before I can’t anymore.” “Interesting.” “I want to watch the sunset tonight before I never see it again.” “Then let’s get started.” Good girl! Mark watched them head to the house, then sat back and waited for dark and Spencer’s return. **** Once he had Riley inside the house, his disposition changed— Cross living up to his name. “Ecstasy.” He watched Riley go into her trance. The hypnotism had worked well with the drug therapy. Of course, Mark Kincaid had a lot to do with Cross’ success in the realm of illegal and hallucinogenic drugs. He told Riley to remove her dress, then follow him downstairs. “You are at the point where we must prepare for the worst. The bruising worsens as your condition fails.” “Yes, Doctor.” Once in the basement, he turned mean. “Who is Mark Kincaid?” “I don’t know.” “You lying slave!” Cross backhanded her, knocking her to the floor. “Please…” 60

At Cross Ends He hit her again, beating her almost senseless. He asked her again about knowing Kincaid but Mark’s suggestion held fast. She tried to get up, begging, but Cross grabbed her, throwing her against the wall. “Well?” Immediately her hands went over her head, her feet moving apart. He cuffed her hands and ankles to the wall. “Please, Master.” Remember sunset. Her mind began to start breaking his control as she found herself concentrating on Mark Kincaid. She didn’t feel the abuse she suffered at her captor’s hands while he attacked her. She did not feel her wrists breaking when he broke them. “You lying slut! You know Mark Kincaid. He doesn’t come after just anyone.” “No, Master, I do not,” she mechanically replied. Cross slapped her again. He raised his hand to her again, Riley ignorant of what went on around her. “Stop it, Graham, you’re going to kill them both.” “Both?” “Her and your precious heir,” Seraphina informed him. Cross thought a moment, her words soothing him. He backed off, looking at his watch. “Get her out of here. She wants to see the sunset. It’ll be a good place for her to OD. Make sure you give her a larger amount,” he ordered before he went to Riley. Grabbing her and squeezing, the power rush returned. He looked at her with the knowledge he wanted to kill the woman carrying his child. Cross no longer cared, he had tired of this game and wanted to turn his attention to finishing things with Kincaid. After that, he’d finish with Riley, her father and traitorous mother. He looked at Seraphina, no longer trusting his wife. 61

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Chapter 5 Spence met up with Mark, and they discussed his plan. Spence would get in the boat and have Nate bring it to the cove while remaining hidden by the trees. He would grab Riley and bring her to them, then they’d get back to the house and Nate would deliver the boat back to the owner. “Sounds easy enough.” “Hopefully, she comes back. This whole thing hinges on whether or not a drug addict comes back.” “Drug addict?” “He’s got her under the control of one of his mind benders. More than likely, he’s refined it since he used it on me.” Spence looked away while his friend relived his imprisonment. He could see Mark had returned to wherever he’d been held. “Mark, it’s getting late,” he reminded him, Mark snapping back from his memories. “Sorry.” “No problem. I’m going to head back to the boat. We’ll see you in a little while.” Kincaid nodded as Spence stood and left him. **** Cross had been traced to Argentina, living the lifestyle of the rich financier. He divided his time between two ranchos—one in the flatlands and the second one in the area of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Kincaid had been flown in by the army for the sole purpose of extracting Graham Cross from his safe haven and back to the Untied States where 62

At Cross Ends he would be dealt with by the government. His secondary orders—kill the guy if he had to. Cross would not be given preferential treatment. Cross had been charged with numerous crimes, mostly capital and he had to be stopped. Kincaid had been tapped to do the job on the order of the White House. The Chief Executive had unofficially signed Cross’ death warrant. Mark, along with three others, had parachuted into the middle of the ranch, crossing the Argentine pampas on a moonless night. Their orders had been to grab Cross and take him cross-country to a predetermined point where they would be flown out. A tricky operation at best, Kincaid would do it because he had been pegged as one of the government’s best covert operatives. The four men ditched their parachutes and began to make their way to the main hacienda. They took care of any resistance, got into the house and met hell. Waiting for them in Cross’ study were the last people they had ever expected—Capitán José Garcia, notorious leader of the infamous Sandinistas and one of his hand-picked Death Squads. Kincaid knew they had been sold out. “Seize them!” Garcia commanded. Garcia’s men disarmed them and held them at gunpoint. He nodded, his men leading Kincaid’s team out, leaving Mark with Cross and Garcia. “Well, Kincaid, what do you have to say for yourself?” No answer. Kincaid held his rage, his mind trying to figure out the leak. “I asked you a question,” Cross stated, again hearing no response. Garcia nodded and one of his men stepped forward, crashing the stock of his gun into Mark’s back, knocking him to his knees. Mark groaned but said nothing. “Who sent you, Kincaid?” Garcia began the questioning. When he received no answer, he had Mark beaten again. “Take him away,” Garcia ordered. “Cross, I swear I’ll get you!” All Kincaid heard was their sadistic laughter. 63

At Cross Ends Kincaid spent the next two years in hell, a prisoner of Garcia and a renegade group of Sandinistas. He had lost track of how many times he had been moved but the last move he knew had been to Nicaragua. “You have been sentenced to death, Señor—you and your men.” “Good, get it over with.” “You are way too eager, mi amigo. I have plans for you. Surviving this long proves to me that you are the right subject.” “Go to hell!” Garcia laughed at this. He nodded to his men, who took Kincaid to the window and forced him to look outside. Another signal and Mark saw his men led into an inner courtyard. Armed men lined them up, blindfolded them and walked away. “Fire!” “No!” He witnessed the execution of three men he had worked with for a long time. His legs buckled, his knees weak. “You signed their executions, Kincaid. Their deaths are your fault. Live with your conscience.” “You son of a bitch!” Mark launched himself at Garcia, beaten back by his guards. “Take him to his new cell,” Garcia ordered. Two soldiers dragged him out of the prison, across the courtyard and into another building. Taken down a long, dark hallway, Mark felt helpless. He had been trained to survive capture by the enemy. He had not been prepared for what he had been forced to witness. It should have been him but not knowing what he would be subjected to, he told himself their deaths were for the best. They would no longer be tortured or threatened. Mark flew across a room into a wall. The force of his body hitting it caused his spine to hurt more than from the constant barrages of rifle stocks and bats. He fell to the dirty floor, trying to catch his breath. “Señor Kincaid, welcome to your new home.” “Garcia, I swear…” he began to threaten. 64

At Cross Ends “You are an idiot. You are never leaving here—at least, not alive. I will break you and maybe you’ll tell me about Cross and who sent you to take him back to the United States.” “Forget it, Garcia. I have nothing to say.” “Bueno,” Garcia said, signaling his men. Two burly types, as Mark later described them, pulled him up and stood him against the wall he had been thrown into. While they held him up, a third one joined them. He removed Mark’s boots before he placed thick metal straps around each ankle, tight enough so he could feel the metal cutting into his flesh. “Gracias por las botas,” Garcia said. “Since you are no longer in need of them, one of my less fortunate soldiers will benefit from your generosity.” The man stood and went to Mark’s left arm, stretching it out from Mark’s side, then shackling his wrist before the same was repeated with his right. Mark had been flattened to the wall with no chance to move. The two guards walked away while the third ripped open Mark’s shirt, baring his chest. “I see your muscle tone is still very good.” “Capítan, él está listo.” “Bueno.” Garcia dismissed the men. Once they had been left alone, Mark’s captor came over to him and locked a strap across Kincaid’s neck. “I hope you learn to enjoy your new home, Señor. We need someone to test our new products. You will be our lab rat.” “Go to hell!” Mark lived like this for another fourteen months. No one could fathom how a man in his condition and position survived. For months, Garcia had him injected with various drugs to see how he would react to them. “What do you have in you that keeps you alive, Señor?” Garcia asked him one day toward the end of his second year in captivity. “The desire to see you and Cross dead,” Kincaid said slowly, one word at a time. Mark’s head felt like it had exploded endlessly. His eyes had become super sensitive to light due to his night vision becoming extremely proficient. A lot of good it’ll do me… 65

At Cross Ends “Look at you—unkempt, smelly, thin, addicted. You expect to take me out?” “I keep my word.” Garcia turned at the sound of one of his soldiers entering Kincaid’s prison. Mark saw him and knew he’d be back in his dark prison. How much longer will this take? Voices thundered through Mark’s head once again as he closed his eyes. “No more,” he muttered. Two men in civilian clothes entered his cell. One had light-colored hair while he thought the other was black. He couldn’t see either well enough to be sure. “What the hell is this, Garcia?” “A lowlife rat—a government agent from the United States. He’s been a very good test subject. Out of all of them, he’s lasted the longest.” “Couldn’t you take better care of him? My God, he’s rank,” the black man observed. “He’s too spirited to be allowed any freedom.” “How long…” the sandy blonde asked, unable to finish his question. “Like this, almost eighteen months.” Mark had never felt shame or humiliation as he felt in front of these two men. Never before had Garcia ever brought his buyers into this area. His mind wandered, realizing he would be a live demo of Garcia’s latest creation. His body shuddered at the thought. Not again, kill me this time. “Gentlemen, I’m giving you a true example of what this drug can do.” Garcia had a lab technician inject a syringe of rose-colored liquid into Mark’s arm. Mark felt his mind being taken over and going out of control. “Señor Kincaid,” Garcia started. “No, I won’t let you do this again.” “You will do as you are told.” “No!” “What’s wrong? Why isn’t he under?” Garcia demanded. 66

At Cross Ends The lab technician shook his head, shrugging. Garcia flew into a rage. The buyers took steps to stand on either side of him. Mark felt the drug burning through him while his body fought to overcome the drug’s invasion. The sandy blonde drew a weapon and fired, killing Garcia and the lab tech. The gunshots pounded into Mark’s brain, making him cringe. “Kincaid, we’re working for the State Department. We were sent to get you out of here.” “How do I know you’re not lying to me?” “Geoffrey Baldwin and the Chief Executive will have our heads if we don’t bring you back.” “Expendable.” “Not you—the White House cannot afford to lose you.” While they talked, the other man released Mark from the shackles. He fell into their arms, his legs unable to support him. He heard rapid gunfire knowing teams had been sent in to back the two men while taking out the Sandinistas. “Who…” “Delta Force.” Mark blacked out, the idea of his rescue overwhelming his already overworked mind. If this is a dream, I pray to never wake up. Kincaid regained consciousness several weeks later. The medical staff at the private wing of a government facility kept a constant watch on him. Even they didn’t know what had kept him alive after what Garcia had subjected him to. Miranda Wallace had been checking his chart when he opened his eyes. He tried to make sure he didn’t fall for another one of Garcia’s or Cross’ tricks. “Welcome back, Mister Kincaid. I’m Miranda Wallace. I’ll be working with you while you withdraw from the poison they put into your body.” “How do I know…” “Baby, I wouldn’t try to trick you. I couldn’t—not after what you’ve been put through. You are the talk of this place. No man could ever last as long as you did.” 67

At Cross Ends “Where am I?” “You are at a government facility, one of the popular undisclosed locations. You’ve been here several weeks.” “How am I?” “From what we’ve been able to put together, you’ll make it.” “But…” “I’m worried about the drugs. Do you remember anything?” “I remember every second of every minute of every hour of every day for the last two years. They executed my team after we were moved numerous times over the first several months. I had been the one singled out because of Cross. That’s why I wasn’t killed with the others.” “After you were taken to where you were found shackled, what did they do to you?” “They allowed me no movement at all. Garcia made sure I couldn’t fight them when they gave me anything.” “It looks like you were turned into a pin cushion. We found marks all over your body.” “At least once a week, maybe more, I was given enough for them to see how I reacted or if I suffered any side effects.” “Were there?” “Yeah, different ones with different injections.” “Such as…” “Nausea, shakes, fever—I went through it all, Doc.” “I see you lost a good amount of weight.” “They fed me once a day if…” “What else did you go through?” “Physical abuse, torture—both mental and physical, open wounds they left to become infected. When they felt I needed it, they took a hose to me. One time, I tried to drown but Garcia would not allow me to die.” “I am so sorry. No one should be forced to endure any of that.” “I knew going in I might not make it back. After the first several months, I resigned myself to never being free again.” “Do you have anything you want to ask me?” 68

At Cross Ends “Can you help me get through this?” “Yes, I can.” “I need to get better.” “Why?” “I want the men who did this to me and the ones behind the murders of three good men.” **** Riley had been led back upstairs to the foyer where she dressed, slipping the shift over her head as commanded. “Slave, down.” She went down to her knees, her hands held out to him. Once again, he slapped her, though this time, pain coursed through her mind. Her eyes felt the pain also. “One last time—tell me about Kincaid.” “I don’t know. I swear, Master, but, please, if you must…” “Silence!” he yelled before telling her to stand. He stood in front of her, then pushed her dress up over her hips and higher. He grabbed at her, squeezing her sensitive skin. He could see her torment. Somehow, Riley held back her reaction, though her body betrayed her by becoming aroused. “Seraphina will give you your medication. Now, leave me…” “Yes, Master.” “Go to the beach,” he said, releasing her dress so it fell down the length of her body. She turned and began to leave but when he said Elvis, Riley stopped and turned. “I’ll be back later, Doctor,” she informed Cross. “Here—take this with you. You need your treatment.” She took the travel mug from Seraphina and walked to the little cove by the small woods where she saw the beautiful sunset. Riley held the travel mug but did not drink anything. She prayed Kincaid would be waiting for her. 69

At Cross Ends Her heart sank when she looked around searching for him, though it seemed he had been in one of her dreams. She tried to hold onto the mug but her hands hurt her too much and she couldn’t remember why. Riley looked at them and gasped, her wrists black and blue. She could only imagine how she looked. Now, she turned her left hand over, then back. She put the mug in her other hand looking at it and she knew. Kincaid would rescue a dead woman. She couldn’t handle it much longer as the disease progressed faster, or had what Kincaid said been true? Am I being lied to? She held the mug to her, the pain in her wrists more intense. Looking up, the sunset took her breath away. She saw a beauty she’d always taken for granted and would never see once her body gave up. Slowly, she raised the mug to her lips and drank the water with her treatment in it. Deep down, she knew Kincaid had been a dream, a trick played on her by her deranged mind. The surf came in, its breaking sounding like thunder in her head. It became louder, Riley trying to hold her ears against the loud noise. The colors of the sky, beautiful a few moments earlier, blinded her now. She closed her eyes but the orange of the sunset felt like it burned through the thin skin of her eyelids. “Help me. Please, God, take me.” Riley saw her only way out and away from the pain. She headed into the water, the chill of it sending ice through her. Her feet felt weighted but she pushed herself to move. Everything assailing her mind and body now grew more intense. Please, God, not like this… She no longer wanted to live. Blind, her mind exploded from the attacking noise of the surf. Her heartbeat added to the thunder while her stomach reeled as she pushed further into the water. Once an excellent swimmer, now she couldn’t remember how to, nor did she care. 70

At Cross Ends Feeling the water rising, she let it take her. It felt like giant hands wrapped around her, pulling her with the tide. She let herself go with it, giving herself to the ocean and praying she’d finally find some peace. She had been right—Kincaid had been a dream and the only good image from her last month or so. She heard his voice calling to her but she couldn’t answer him. Riley felt safe and inwardly smiled. It had finally come to an end.

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Chapter 6 Mark watched her come down the beach to where he waited. She held something in her hands but he noticed she did it with great difficulty. He saw her look at her wrists and cry. Kincaid could very well imagine what Cross had done to her. She took the object and put it to her mouth, drinking from it. Damn it! He couldn’t break cover to stop her from doing it, though he knew whatever she drank could not be good for her. He surveyed the beach seeing she had come alone with no guard. Darting his gaze back to her, he watched her react to the drugs—an all too familiar sight. “No, Riley, don’t!” he called out, his voice drowned out by the surf. Mark watched in horror as Riley pushed herself to fight the cresting waves. He looked around once again and saw no one else—he had to make his move. Kincaid broke cover and ran along the tree line to the water’s edge. He dove into the water, swimming hard against the surf. Diving under, he swam toward where he thought she might be. Breaking from the warm water, he came up searching for her. He saw her and headed toward her. He knew he might have a fight on his hands but he didn’t care—he had to save her. Breaking the surface again, he filled his lungs with as much air as he could. He looked around and saw her. She shrieked, the pain etched clearly on her face. His heart slammed against his chest. As close as he was to her, he had a long way to go to rescue her. “Riley, don’t!” he yelled. 72

At Cross Ends She didn’t hear him but he saw her pressing forward to the end she seemed to want. He swam to her and once he reached her, he pulled her to him, begging her to fight for her life. “Riley, I love you. Don’t leave me and what we can have together.” Mark knew she had not heard him when her body went limp in his arms. He put her on her back, his arm around her and swam out to the area where he prayed Spence and Nate waited for them. If they hadn’t made it, all his efforts would be for nothing. Mark Kincaid prayed for help. **** “Mark, over here!” Kincaid barely heard Harmon Spencer’s voice. He spied the boat and finally saw his friend’s outstretched arms. Heading to the boat with Riley had been difficult fighting the incoming tide, the waves beginning to brutally pound them and the boat. Now had been the wrong time for a storm to hit but it would, and soon. “Help her!” He pulled himself close to the side of the small craft, then fought to lift her out of the water. Spence and Nate reached down to pull Riley’s lifeless body into the boat, then helped Mark. Once onboard, Nate sped off, the pounding surf covering the sound of the motors. Mark relaxed to catch his breath until they made it away safely. After all, a single-hulled Scarab with dual in-boards and designed to race is not one of the more quiet boats on the market. He watched Spencer check Riley Devane over. She had been wrapped in a blanket to warm her and looked so vulnerable. Please, Lord, let her live without any problems from this. Please… “Is she…” “She’s alive but any more than that—I can’t tell you.” Kincaid felt relief, though fear stabbed his emotions. What if she dies before I get to know her? Before I’m able to speak to her and… What if I never get to make love to her? 73

At Cross Ends **** Seraphina became angry, more at this moment than ever before. She’d suspected her husband’s sessions with his hostage had been physical but when she found out about his insatiable lust for the woman, it drove her mad. She had given him her undying love and he’d repaid her by planting his seed in his enemy’s daughter. Now, to learn about the repeated attacks pushed her to put an end to the whole plan. Riley Devane did not deserve what he had done to her and Seraphina didn’t deserve her husband’s betrayal. She stood outside the room where Cross had taken his captive and listened, sickened by the man she thought she knew. Then she watched from the shadows as he ordered his slave around in the entry hall. She waited until the woman had left for a sunset walk on the beach before she attacked him. “How dare you?” “What?” he growled. “You never told me about the sex and a baby!” “You never asked. Besides, you haven’t been much of a wife lately.” “Your obsession came between us.” “My obsession, is it? When she has my child, her father will have to see what he’s done to me. I’ll raise his grandchild and he won’t have a say in anything. He took Annabelle but I’ll have his daughter and his heir. You fool, I told you all of this a few days ago. You’re losing your mind, my love.” “You sick bastard!” she cried, Cross slapping her. “Stop now before you get the same medicine you’ve given her!” he shouted at her. Seraphina glared at him before she ran out of the house. At the top of the lawn, she stopped as her life crashed around her. Seraphina aimlessly walked away from the house and the husband she no longer knew. What the hell had happened? What did I do to incur his anger? Sorrow hit her when she realized the hatred she 74

At Cross Ends felt for Riley Devane had been wrongfully placed. It had been misdirected to a helpless pawn when she should have given it all to her husband. She walked toward the beach and froze when she heard a scream. She looked toward the noise and saw Riley, obviously in pain. Seraphina began walking toward her but stopped, watching the woman head into the surf. Stop her! A voice in her mind begged her to do something but she didn’t. “Be in peace away from this!” she called out, the crashing waves louder than her voice. She saw the woman disappear into the water and prayed for her soul. She prayed Riley Devane would find peace. A few minutes later, Seraphina entered the house. She met Cross, who immediately asked where Riley was. “It’s time for her medication.” “She’s gone.” “Gone? Where could she have gone?” “Into the water. She drowned herself.” “Why didn’t you stop her?” “So you could kill her later? What kind of a monster are you?” Cross slapped her, a prelude to the deadly beating that followed. When he eased up, Seraphina’s broken body lay before him on the white marbled floor. A huge pool of blood surrounded her, Seraphina bleeding out from his brutality. He looked at her, an idea coming to him. He went to his desk and wrote a note. To whom it may concern, I killed Riley Devane by giving her a fatal dose of a mindcontrolling designer drug my husband had me create. She disappeared after he beat her only to be seen being overtaken by storm waters. As her body won’t be found and his anger caused me to want death, I leave this as my confession to recent crimes. Seraphina Collins Cross, MD 75

At Cross Ends He smiled. Seraphina’s last act, albeit after her death. Now that the girl had been taken care of, he would move on to his next objective. He picked up the phone, ordering his pilot to ready his helicopter. He proceeded to pack his things, his next stop—the manor in Geneva. His next victim—Mark Kincaid.

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Chapter 7 The boat nudged itself against the private secluded dock first built by the original owners of the house Kincaid and the others had leased for their use. Once Nate tied it off, Mark made it up to the boarded walkway and reached down to take Riley from Spence. He carried her limp body to the house, where Miranda Wallace met them. She wrapped a blanket around Mark and Riley before they hurried inside. “What do you need, Doctor Spencer?” “She needs to be warmed up. I don’t know what she’s been given but Mark said she drank something right before she went into the water. Maybe we can swab inside her mouth to get a sample, even if it’s not the best.” “We can use anything that can at least give us a hint as to the drugs in her system.” Mark carried her to the hospital room set up on the lower level of the house. He stretched her out on an examining table, watching Miranda and Spence go to work. “Can you tell me what’s going on?” Mark asked as Spence checked Riley’s heart. “Bluntly—she’s a damned mess. I’m surprised she survived it.” “Will she make it?” “If I have anything to do with it—definitely. Miranda, do what you need to. I’m checking Mark out.” “Sure.” 77

At Cross Ends **** Riley felt the warm hands of Neptune hold onto her. She had always wondered what drowning felt like. This felt like nothing she’d ever experienced—it felt wonderful. She felt strong arms holding her, making her feel safe. She heard her name as someone called to her. It had finally come to an end—no more pain, no weakness, no bruising or bleeding. She wondered how she would spend eternal life. Will it be as I’ve been recently, or as I was before the accident? What a thing to be worrying about now. “Riley!” She heard a voice—his voice. He called to her begging her not to leave him. If she had heard him right, he promised her a life together. Is my imagination playing more games with my already diminished sanity? Will there be a chance with this man? How can there be? I’ve been welcomed by Death and that means I have no chance at life with anyone, especially Kincaid. She felt herself moving through the water, then she felt as if she had been sent to the surface. No, I want to stay where I am. A chill went through her, then a softness coursed through her. She felt different, as if she’d been drowning in love. Riley lapsed off, chills and shivering overtaking her. She felt cherished and special. She felt peace. When she finally opened her eyes, she couldn’t see because the room’s lights blinded her. She closed her eyes but needed to try again. Voices assailed her, the sound of them thundering through her mind. She wanted to close them all out but she could not move to do so. Has my condition worsened? “Doctor Spencer,” she heard a voice call, the others quieting. Riley froze, the thought of another doctor terrifying her. “No more,” she whispered. One word at a time she spoke, terrified. “Riley, it’s over. You’re all right.” 78

At Cross Ends Riley cried out, his voice causing her to hear explosions. Again she tried to cover her ears but could not move her hands. She cried, her mind reeling while her body fought itself. My God, I am going mad. It’s happening. “Riley, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize…” Spencer whispered. “Get them off,” she cried, fighting more and tiring her already weakened body. “Baby, calm down. My name’s Miranda. Spencer and I are here to help you. Stop fighting the restraints and save your strength.” “Why…” “We don’t know what you’ve been given. We’re worried about how you may react to the withdrawal from the drugs.” “I have a blood disease…” “No, child, you don’t. You’ve been lied to.” “Why?” “You were told that to control you.” “I don’t understand.” “You were part of a plan of revenge. Just a pawn in a madman’s game.” Riley listened to Miranda, remembering what Kincaid had said—You’ve been lied to. “Open your eyes.” “I can’t—too bright.” “I didn’t realize,” Spencer said. He reached for the dimmer switch for the room lights. Riley cautiously opened her eyes and heard a gasp. “What? What’s wrong?” “Nothing. I have never seen such exquisite violet eyes like yours before,” Miranda told her. Miranda hadn’t seen some of the side effects her patient experienced. She showed Spencer the blood spots where tiny vessels had popped. They agreed this had been the result of having been continually slapped. 79

At Cross Ends Riley relaxed. Maybe I’m in better shape than I’ve been led to believe. “Can I ask you something?” “Sure, child,” Miranda answered. “Can you tell me about Mark Kincaid?” “What do you want to know?” Miranda asked as she and Spence exchanged looks. “Is he real?” “Very real. He brought you here.” “He’s alive?” “Yes. He’s somewhere else for now, but he’ll be in to see you later if you’d like.” “I’d like that. I’m not sure of a whole lot but he’s a light at the end of a very dark tunnel.” “How so?” “I saw him in my mind. He told me if I held on, he’d get me out of that place. Then when I saw him on the beach, he said something to me that helped me make it though the next therapy session.” “Do you mind if I ask you about your therapy?” “I don’t remember any of it. The only things I truly remember are the bruising and the bleeding I think came from the sessions.” “Bleeding?” “Yes, why?” “Do you mind if we do some testing?” “I guess not.” Riley went to move but found she still could not. She glanced down, finally learning the reason why. Her hands had been secured to the table she laid on. Leather wristlets lined with a soft material held them in place. She winced, Miranda seeing her distress. “Riley, calm down. We did this for your own good. We have no clue what he gave you, or what reactions you may suffer and the like. Some of these drugs cause violent body spasms, emotional ex80

At Cross Ends tremes. We fear you might involuntarily hurt yourself once you begin to withdraw from them.” “Withdrawal? Are you telling me I am an addict?” “How often did you take your medication?” “Three or four times a day, maybe more.” “Child, they held you for several weeks.” “Noooo!” she cried, tears flooding her eyes. How long have I been in Doctor Cross’ care? Her hands clenched at the thought while she cried out in pain. “What’s wrong?” Spencer asked. “My wrists—I think they’re broken.” “Sweetheart, they are both in one piece. I checked them before I put the straps on. If they’d been broken, they’d be in splints or casts.” “The pain…” “Could be they’re both sprained.” Spencer undid the one cuff, massaging her wrist. He did the same with the other, though, despite her protests, he put them back in the wristlets. “Thank you, they feel better.” “As I told you before, we’re going run some tests—nothing painful aside from the blood tests. We need to find out a few things.” “Could I be pregnant?” “It’s possible—why?” “He told me he’d force me to have his child to anger Dad. If I’ve been raped, it could only have been by Doctor Cross. You see, until this happened, I’ve never been intimate with a man before. I’m old-fashioned and hoped to wait for my wedding night.” “Admirable,” Miranda complimented her. “What do you want us to do if you are?”

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At Cross Ends “Take it. I don’t want a baby who may be addicted or the result of rape or some sick game. I couldn’t…” Riley cried, becoming agitated. “Shh, it’s all right. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Now, why don’t you try to rest? I promise we won’t be too invasive.” **** “How is she?” Mark Kincaid asked as he bolted up. He had been waiting for what seemed like an eternity to find out about Riley’s condition. “She’s better but she has a long way to go. She did ask about you and she’d like to see you.” Mark grinned. Maybe there is a chance with her. “Tell me about her. How bad is she?” “Both wrists are severely sprained. She’s been beaten on numerous occasions. Her eyes are full of blood from vessels rupturing. She’s been used as a pin cushion and I’m concerned about her veins collapsing. In fact, she reminds me of you after your jungle trip. He raped her repeatedly and violently and we know she was pregnant.” “Was?” “By her order, she wanted it terminated.” “What about the drugs?” “She’s under restraint until we figure out what he gave her and if she’ll have violent withdrawal symptoms.” “I’ll kill the bastard.” “Later, right now, you need to rest. After that, go to her.” “I can’t. I have to go back to the island to get Cross and whoever helped him.” “You need rest.” “Later, I’ve got to get him. Besides, I may be able to find out what he gave her, which will make your job easier.” 82

At Cross Ends “True,” Spence agreed—he had no choice. His friend would go regardless of what he said. That was the reason Mark had become the government’s best high-level covert operative. Harmon Spencer had questions. “I need to know something.” “What?” “How long can you go on like this without causing yourself irreversible harm?” “Only time and determination can answer that, my friend.” “There’s something else.” “Yeah, the love of a good woman—the one down the hall.” **** Nate cut the motor and joined Mark rowing to the small cove they had found before, the same one they had hidden in before rescuing Riley Devane. Tying the boat off, he noticed Kincaid seemed preoccupied. “Mark?” “Yeah?” “What’s up?” “Do you notice anything?” “It’s quiet.” “Too damned quiet. They should be looking for her or her body. There’s no one and no activity,” Mark said, scanning the area around the estate with state-of-the-art binoculars. The hairs on the back of his neck stood up while his spine tingled—definite signs. “What do we do?” “What we came here for. Let’s go.” Mark took off with Nate right behind him. They made their way to an open set of doors from the side of the house. Still meeting no one, they cautiously entered to find they stood in a bedroom suite. Nate went to the door to listen while Mark searched the room. “This is where they held her,” he quietly stated. He found traces of Riley having been there—her scent on the bed, a robe with jasmine he thought. He found the closet full of white gowns 83

At Cross Ends and dresses, then went to the bed. Pulling back the covers, his gut tightened at the sight of blood. He closed his eyes to straighten his head. “It’s still quiet, Mark.” “Let’s see what else we can find,” he said, the two men leaving the room to explore the remainder of the house. They found Seraphina’s body in the entry hall, lying in a pool of blood, a gunshot wound to the chest. Mark bent down to look at the body. “Well?” Nate asked. “The gunshot wound was an afterthought. He beat her to death and she bled out. He’s slipping if he’s pulling cover-ups like this.” “Look at this,” Nate said, handing him an envelope. Opening it and pulling out a letter, Mark shook his head. “It’s too damned pat. Let’s see if we can find anything he may have left behind. This ain’t over yet.” They searched the house, beginning in the basement. Mark shuddered when he saw the wall, the shackles almost in the same position as the ones he spent a year and a half in. He noticed blood on the floor and traces of other body fluids. He knew she had been tortured in this room. “Kincaid,” Nate called. He followed the man’s voice into a laboratory. “This is what they gave her, I think.” “Get it and anything else important and take it out to the boat. I’ll meet you there.” “You got it.” Mark went through the rest of the house. In the course of his search, he learned Doctor Seraphina Collins had been Mrs. Graham Cross. He found her journal discovering she had not written the suicide confession. He searched Cross’ office last. What he saw turned his stomach. Cross had made detailed notes on everything from the moment Riley Devane had been kidnapped. He took Cross’ files and 84

At Cross Ends his journal and put them in a soft-sided briefcase. After one last survey of the room, he found an envelope standing on the mantelpiece addressed to him. Kincaid, The girl was extremely good. Too bad you got here too late. Her family will spend years wondering why, something I will enjoy. One thing I will enjoy more though and that is your final breath on this earth. You are next, Kincaid. When? Who knows? That’ll be part of the fun. Get your affairs in order because this time, you won’t survive it. Graham Cross “You fucking prick!” Mark gathered up the letter and the briefcase, then left the house. Running from the house and across the lawn, he broke an unseen laser sensor. Seconds later, the house blew up, taking Riley’s ordeal with it. He made it to the boat and they sped off. He looked back at the fire and watched subsequent explosions go off. He knew they had come from the lab. “You covered everything, didn’t you?” Nate asked. “I didn’t do it,” Mark replied.

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Chapter 8 Weeks passed. Mark busied himself attempting to find where Cross had escaped to. So far, Riley had been safe. Hell, Cross thinks she’s dead. Thank God for small blessings. He’d kept up on her recovery while she became stronger and more beautiful each day she healed. He would watch her from a distance but he had yet to go to her, although Miranda kept telling him Riley had been asking to see him. He wanted to. Hell, I love her! Kincaid would watch her and feel desires he’d never felt before. He still needed to keep her safe. The last thing he wanted was to lead Cross to her. He had to protect her and he sensed he was being watched. But then again, hadn’t that been part of Cross’ plan? If so, Cross was ahead in points with his mind games since Mark felt the dread setting in. He felt terror like he had never experienced before—something about a forest of mirrors. Miranda understood and told him he had to live his life. He couldn’t allow a man like Cross to rule his life. “I know what he’s capable of.” “And so does she.” “I have to protect her.” “She needs you.” “No, she doesn’t.” “You need her.” “Maybe, but I don’t want to endanger her. She can have a life if I’m not touching it.” 86

At Cross Ends “That’s not your decision.” “It’s the way it has to be.” “Mark, baby—this is me you’re talking to. I know you better than you think. You’re using this as an excuse.” “For what?” he demanded. “Love.” “What?” “You’ve never been in love. You find her, fall hard over her picture and have been acting like a lost soul ever since you brought her here. I’ve seen you at night, watching over her like a hawk. Go to her and let it happen.” “I can’t.” “Why?” “It could get her killed.” “Don’t you think I can make my own decisions, Mister Kincaid?” Mark and Miranda stopped arguing at the sound of her voice, his mouth caught in the middle of beginning his next thought. He stared at the magnificent beauty standing in the doorway. Miranda took her cue and left them, closing the door on her way out of the room. **** “Miss Devane, I…” “Oh, come now. I think we’re past formalities by now. I don’t recall much of my last day on that island but I do remember one hell of a kiss and you telling me you’d be back for me. There had been something else.” “What?” “You told me you loved me.” “I…” he stammered. “You saved my life over a month ago. Why haven’t you come to me?” “I…was busy.” 87

At Cross Ends “I think you’re terrified.” “Of?” “Us.” She crossed the room closing the space between them. She looked into his eyes, the regal purple of hers burning him to his soul. “I’m…” “I learned something from my time in hell.” “What?” “To take what I want because life is too precious to waste. That’s why I wanted to see the sunset that night. I thought I was dying and needed to experience everything I could before I passed on. You kissed me and, for the first time in my life, even though he had me addicted to his drugs and under his control, I felt whole.” She waited for him to say something. “I’m…” “Mark Kincaid, did you tell me the truth? Do you love me?” “Uh… Yes, I do.” “Good, I was terrified all this had turned you against me.” “Never—I could never hurt you like that.” “Then what is the problem?” “It’s a long story.” “We’ve got some time. Miranda and the others left us the house for a while.” “Why?” “I told her I needed to talk with you in private. I asked them to. I hoped we could relax and…” Mark stopped her in mid-sentence when he pulled her to him and kissed her—a long, deep and passionate kiss. She drew back, gazing at him. “Wow…” “I’m sorry, Riley. I’ve been terrified to be near you. He’s out there somewhere and I’m his next target.” 88

At Cross Ends “I want to be with you. I want to see him dead for what he and his associate did to me.” “Seraphina’s dead.” “Good. I’m not.” “What?” “I want to live my life. I want that life to be with you, if you’ll have me.” “You don’t know me. I don’t know you.” “Mark, I know enough. Your kisses tell me all I need to know.” “Being with me could get you killed.” “No, it won’t. I trust you.” “How can you be so damned sure?” “Because I have the best bodyguard a kiss can buy.” “Riley, I…” “I love you, Mark. You saved my life and I want to spend the rest of it with you.” **** Her kiss fiery, her lips tasted sweeter than anything he’d ever had in his life—wine, candy, other women. Riley Devane had a special quality about her and she wanted him. He’d kissed her and pulled back to gaze into her eyes, the violet piercing his soul once more. Riley’s mere presence sparked something in him that had lain dormant for what felt like a lifetime. After his experience in South and Central America, he’d been afraid to love. Now, she opened up the door as no other ever could. His hand went to the side of her face, hers on top of it pressing his touch to her as if she feared not being close enough. She never lost his gaze, their eyes locked. “Riley, you are the most exotic beauty I’ve ever had the privilege to lay my eyes on. Your pictures don’t even come close to capturing your beauty. I don’t deserve you.” 89

At Cross Ends “You have no choice, Mark. I saw you in my dreams. Seeing you helped me hang onto the tiny threads of what remained of my sanity. You came to me on the beach and your promise helped me survive his last therapy session. You took me from a very damp grave and saved me. I can never ever repay you for any of that, but my heart and soul are both yours. I love you, Mark.” He stared at her, at a loss for words. She had been right about his terror. He dreaded the possibility of losing her. Her eyes held his as she smiled. Mark’s lips covered hers, their kiss heated. “My God, woman, you taste good.” He kissed her again, his fingers caught in her hair while he held her tight against him. Her arms went around his neck as she returned his kiss with everything in her. “Please,” she begged him. “What? What can I do to make you happy?” “Let me spend my life with you.” She felt the dull throb of desire between her legs. Her body ached for him, her need overwhelming. “I need you.” He picked her up and carried her to his room. Light filled and cooled by ocean breezes, Mark had chosen the perfect place for romance. It didn’t matter—they only had eyes for each other. Mark carefully put her down next to his bed. She touched him with her fingertips, afraid to break contact. Both of them clumsily tried to undress each other. They laughed, finally removing their clothes to face each other naked. She gasped at his physique while he did the same when he gazed upon her beauty. “You’re perfection,” he told her, his stare following the lines of her body, the subtle curves, her full breasts. He gazed down to her hips, between her legs and lower, disbelieving his good fortune. While he took in every aspect of the woman he loved, she did the same with him. His athletic and muscular body had previously 90

At Cross Ends only been in her dreams. She slid her fingertips down his skin, his arousal evident. Heat coursed though her body and Riley trembled while she ran her fingers along his cock before she held him. “I have to warn you of my inexperience.” “That doesn’t change my mind about anything. Riley, I told you I love you. My God, I do. I want you, everything you want to give me. I need your body by mine—you with me.” She knelt before him, her knees finding a soft spot in the carpet. He groaned more when he felt her tongue exploring his cock. He held her head against him, her hair falling over her shoulders like a shawl. She took him deep into her mouth, bringing him to the edge. He stopped her, pulling her up to stand in front of him. “What…” “Unh unh, not unless it’s together,” he told her. He kissed her, his hands taking hold of her breasts, his thumbs playing with her hard nipples. As soon as he saw this, he pricked each one sending shock waves through her. Riley cried out before he gently maneuvered her to the bed and laid her down, his hands not missing any chance to excite her. “You are beautiful and perfect. I love you, Riley. You’ve become my life.” “I love you, Mark. Don’t ever stop loving me.” She felt his tongue trail down her neck and then linger over her breasts as he laved each one. He nibbled on her and she gasped, her nipples tender yet demanding more. He trailed further, lazily making his way to where desire waited. Riley gasped when he tasted her essence. Mark felt like he was drowning in a hot spring with—joyfully—no relief in sight. He answered her pleas by delving deeper, enjoying her body as it shook out of control. Mark felt her hands in his hair, pressing him closer to her, neither wanting the slightest bit of distance between them. She cried, Mark immediately concerned he’d hurt her. “I’ve never felt so complete.” 91

At Cross Ends “I’m not through yet.” “Well…” “Yes, ma’am, but please, tell me if I hurt you.” “You could never hurt me. I promise,” she assured him, the violet in her eyes darkening from the gift he’d given her. He kissed her neck and shoulders. Once he felt her long fingernails on his back, he drove into her. She gasped from the surprise, then gazed at him. Her body enveloped his cock, Riley wrapping herself around him. “Tell me what you want me to do.” “You’re in command, you…” “No, my love, I am not. You will always be the mistress I answer to. Never will you submit to me. I could never do that to you.” “I understand and know the difference. I would go to Hell and back for you, give my life so you can go on. I would be your willing slave if it meant having you in my life. I love you.” While they talked, he thrust in and out of her. She dreaded letting go of him for any reason. His drive turned harder as together, they became one. She begged him for more and he gave it to her, unable to refuse her anything. She felt herself tighten around him, the heat between them and their wet bodies. He felt her welcome him—hot, wet, loving. She shuddered twice because he had wanted her to feel the hint of ultimate pleasure before they came together. “Please, Mark…” “Look at me when it happens. I want to see the majestic beauty of those sparkling amethysts while I fuck you so I know they are for me and me only.” She looked at him and he could see deep into her soul. Their stares locked, he thrust every bit of himself into her. He felt her come for him as he filled her with every last bit of himself. He bent to kiss her, drinking her emotions while she tried to scream. 92

At Cross Ends “Mark…” “Yes, my love?” He made sure her body was full of his seed because he wanted her to be the mother of his children. You selfish bastard! Kincaid didn’t care—he’d found the woman who haunted his life and always would. “Mark?” “Yes?” he asked, sure she would want to rest. “Fuck me again. Drive me to wherever you just did and take me further. I don’t care if you give me a child either. I want you so damned much, it scares me.” “I…” he started to say, unsure of what had just happened. “Please, I’m begging you.” Mark groaned when she ran her fingertips to the base of his cock, making his blood boil. She moaned while he loved her, his mouth on her breast, his tongue tempting and teasing. His fingers played with her other nipple, pinching her as he thrust into her again. She dug her nails into his back while he took her to the edge once more. “Look at me,” he said, their eyes meeting. He filled her as she had begged him, Riley crying out. “Mark!” “Riley, marry me,” he blurted out. “I will. I swear I will,” she answered without hesitation. “My God, Kincaid…” Mark collapsed to her side, his cock still swollen within her, Riley rolling with him. He took deep breaths trying to calm his body. She kissed his chest, Mark feeling her tears. “Changing your mind?” he asked as he lifted her chin and brushed her tears away. “Never. I want you as my husband. I want to be Mrs. Mark Kincaid and I truly want to have your children.” “What’s wrong?” 93

At Cross Ends “What if I can’t? What if Cross ruined any chance we have?” “I love you. I need you. I want Riley Devane. If it’s just you and me, I’ll be extremely happy. You, my dear wife-to-be, are not a baby factory. I’d love you to have a daughter who looks just like you or a son but if we can’t, I won’t walk out on you. You’re stuck with me.” Riley wept for the first time since her abduction. They both felt her relief. **** When she woke later, Riley sensed she had been left alone. She languished in her emotions after they spent themselves with each other. Mark Kincaid had been a gift from heaven, Riley thanking God for him. She thought about their discussion about children and shivered. Cross had left her pregnant with his bastard. Doctor Spencer and Doctor Wallace had told her, letting her decide what to do. She took no time in making the decision to terminate the pregnancy. The abortion had been performed hours later. Sure Mark knew, she figured he was aware she may not be able to have children. She felt a huge surge of relief when he told her it made no difference. Mark Kincaid loved her without questions or reservations. Riley lay back, ignoring the fact the sheet had fallen to her waist. It no longer bothered her to sleep naked and, after the last several hours, she felt good about herself. Mark had done that for her. She had a confidence she thought had been taken from her. She had a man who loved her. Riley Devane finally had everything she ever wanted. “Riley?” “Yes?” “Good morning. You look absolutely ravishing. I wish I had a camera.” “You have the original, my love.” 94

At Cross Ends Mark climbed on the bed, straddling her hips. “Where have you been?” she asked. He wore black gym shorts and no shirt. Beads of sweat trickled down his extremely hard body. “I took a run on the beach.” “Why didn’t you wake me up? I would have gone with you.” “Miranda wants you to take it easy a little longer.” “After last night?” “I didn’t say a word.” His hands had been rubbing her soft breasts. She held them, her nipples instantly hard. Riley needed his touch more than she wanted to admit. Her body ached but she cherished the soreness knowing the reason. He sat over her, making her hot and wet. “Mark?” “Yes?” “Do it again. I need your strength.” “Always.” He bent to kiss her, nipping her earlobe. “Do you like negligees? What should I buy you?” “Nothing, my love. I always want to be ready for your touch. I’ll sleep with nothing touching me but you.” “God, woman, you’re amazing.” “Mark, shut up and strip off the shorts.” He did and lazily but eagerly made love to her. He would find her, enjoying her body reaching the peak and taking pleasure in it. She took him and made love to him, her tongue working over him feverishly while he played between her legs with his. Lying on his back, he pulled her on top of him. He sat her on his cock, then pulled her down while he drove into her. She gasped from the feel of his raw power. They came together, Riley calling his name. Riley had become addicted to this man. He could cause an orgasm within her that overtook her, her body out of any self-control it ever possessed. He artfully took her to the edge but not all the 95

At Cross Ends way over until he filled her, both sated. Feeling him inside her, then the explosion as he released everything into her made her feel she had become his only one. “Oh… Oh…” she cried out when he found her, his fingers playing with her clit. She could feel herself soaked and wanting more, unable to get enough. “Riley Devane, my wife-to-be, look at me and tell me when you want to become Riley Kincaid.” Riley met his eyes and smiled. “Right now—I don’t want to wait.” “You may have to.” “Why?” “I’m going to make love to you again.” “Good reason.”

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Chapter 9 Riley chose to wear a bright orange dress. From her time on Cross’ island, she had come to detest white. She would never wear the hated color again—no matter what. She liked the asymmetric design and it hit her—once upon a time, she had been a very sought-after architect. Oh, well, maybe in my next life… She put the dress on, letting the soft fabric fall gracefully over her very tender skin, a feeling she prayed would never leave her because she knew if she ever did lose it, the reason would be the loss of her extraordinary lover. Please, Lord, don’t let me lose him. Mark’s the best thing to ever happen to me. Slipping into a pair of sandals, she ran a brush through her hair and tied it loosely back. Now to go find out what Mark has up his sleeve. He had been secretive from the moment he got out of bed and dressed. He kissed her good-bye after telling her he had to check on some information from Washington. She felt her stomach tighten as fear reared its ugliness into her bliss-filled life. Oh, well, we will have to deal with it. Going outside and down to the grassy area at the edge of the pool, she looked down a tiny valley lined with palms—a beautiful sight and perfect example of depth of field. With this thought, she realized she missed her profession, though it no longer remained a priority as it once had. She watched some birds flying overhead, the peace wonderful. “Riley?” 97

At Cross Ends “Yes,” she answered as she turned. Mark stood in front of her with Spencer and Miranda, Nate and Serena—her nurse. A stranger stood with them and a momentary hint of fear flashed through her. “Come up here. Some one would like to talk with you.” She made her way around the pool, climbing the short stairway to join them. “Riley, this is Father Peter.” “Father?” “Shall we?” he asked, offering her his arm. As Riley took it, she felt a warmth course through her from just touching Mark’s arm. “You look very handsome.” “Thanks.” Mark wore a powder blue suit with a royal purple shirt. “I hope my shirt matches your eyes.” “Sweetheart, my dress may clash.” “Never.” “What’s going on?” “You’ll see.” Her hand tightened on his arm, his free one covering hers. “Don’t worry. There’s nothing bad or hurtful going on.” “I’ll take your word for it,” she said hesitantly. He made sure she didn’t see his smile. The group went into the house to a room she hadn’t seen before. The doors opened to a huge ballroom, built into the house by the original owner. He heard her catch her breath while she looked around the room. At one end, she saw an archway of tropical flowers. “Mark, how did you do all this?” “Miranda worked her magic. Do you like it?” “I love it.” “Good,” he said as they crossed the room to stand beneath the arch. A macaw and a parrot perched to the side, squawking. Nate 98

At Cross Ends gave her a box, her shock evident when she opened it. She pulled out a bouquet of flowers, ones matching those in the arch. She turned to Mark. “You are wonderful to do all this.” “I’m not done yet.” “Mark, Riley, everyone—if you would…” The small group stood before Father Peter, who opened his book and looked at them. “I was prepared to use the written rite but, looking at the both of you and knowing what you’ve endured and survived while hoping for a wonderful future—Mark John Kincaid, do you take Riley Amanda Devane to be your wife, to love, honor and cherish so long as you both shall live?” “I do,” he answered, squeezing her hand. “Riley Amanda Devane, do you take Mark John Kincaid to be your husband, to love, honor and cherish so long as you both shall live?” “I do,” she answered, a smile crossing her face. “These two have been brought together by adverse events. It’s made them and their love stronger. You have both come before me and in the eyes of God and the Church, we celebrate your marriage. Do you have the ring?” “Yes, sir,” Mark said as Spence handed him the ring he then passed to Father Peter. The priest said a prayer blessing it before giving it back to Mark. “Place the ring on her finger and…” “Riley, with this ring, I wed thee—to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, in sickness and in health, until death us do part. I love you, Riley, more than life itself.” He slid the diamond band on her ring finger, then kissed her hand. Riley repeated his words back to him.

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At Cross Ends “What God hath brought together, let no one put asunder. I now pronounce you husband and wife. Congratulations, Mister and Mrs. Mark Kincaid.” Mark pulled her into a kiss oblivious of their audience. “I love you, Riley.” “I love you, too, Mark, and thank you.” “For what?” “Making me complete. You give me life.” He kissed her again. “Excuse me, dinner is waiting,” Spence announced. They crossed the room, Riley staring at her husband. Mark Kincaid definitely had been her best therapy and she’d do anything for him—no matter what it took. **** After dinner, they walked along the private beach running along the ocean. Riley stopped and stared at the sunset. “Babe, are you all right?” “Yes,” she assured him. “It was a sunset like this that helped you to save my life.” “I don’t remember. You were the only one I could keep my eyes on. I saw nothing but a beautiful yet troubled woman I had been loving since I first saw her. I knew you were the only one I could ever love.” “I’d seen you in my dreams but didn’t know who you were. It shocked my senses to meet you in person. Your kisses set me on fire. You are my soul mate if you believe in those things.” “I do. You’ve haunted me ever since I first saw your picture.” Her hand went to his face, tears streaming down her face. “I love you, Mark.” “I love you, too, Rad.” “Rad?”

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At Cross Ends “R-A-D—your initials. I finally have something to call you that's just between you and me. It also describes you as my nephew would have a few years back. You’re rad, lady, very rad.” “Rad—interesting,” she told him, grinning. “You are definitely that, too.” While they talked, he lifted her hem up to her waist, his hands holding her rear as he caught his breath. “You are a minx,” he said, nipping at her neck. “I haven’t worn lingerie since the abduction. It strangles me and I haven’t had a need to with the lazy life I’ve been leading. Besides, it leaves fewer barriers between us.” She gasped when she felt his touch and her reaction. They kissed and she fought to remove his clothes. Without missing anything in his quest to find her one special spot, he took her dress off. Naked, they both dropped to their knees in the sand before Mark took her over the edge. The tide came in, catching them in its wake, though they didn’t care. She threw her head back and felt his mouth suckling at her breast. She cried out his name at the same time a wave crested. Between him, the cool ocean breeze, plus the water washing over them, Riley shook and begged for more. “Anything for you—anything,” he said, laying her back and entering her welcoming and wanting pussy. Each time he thrust into her, she gasped, then moaned when he pulled back. She couldn’t hear anything but the breaking waves as his essence filled her. She tried to grab hold of anything firm but all she could clench onto had been handfuls of sand. When they climaxed, she screamed, arching her shaking body to be closer to him. “Please, give me a child. I want you with me every moment. I…” “Yes, Riley, I’ll do it if it’s in the destiny cards. I want the same—believe me. Riley, my love, tell me what to do…”

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Chapter 10 A month after they married, Miranda saw Riley in her office at the National Naval Medical Center at Bethesda, Maryland. Since their return to the United States, they’d moved into Kincaid’s home in rural Northern Virginia, west of Chantilly. She had never been happier. In the days since they departed the Caymans to return to their lives, Riley had seen her parents and felt relief when they immediately accepted her husband. She spoke with her boss at the firm she worked at, taking an indefinite leave of absence while remaining available for consultation. Washington had wanted it this way due to Cross remaining at large. Everyone involved agreed it would be the only way to protect her. “But what about Mark?” she remembered asking. “He’s the one who’ll draw Cross out when the time comes. If Cross learns you’re still alive, he could act before we’re ready.” “I don’t like it,” she protested. “Trust us. He’s been there, done that.” Unknown to all of them except his wife, Mark didn’t like it either and felt uncomfortable being used as bait. Riley could be hurt and he couldn’t allow that to happen. What he wanted to do was leave the East Coast and head to British Columbia and a small town outside of Vancouver. He knew she’d go without question but it felt wrong forcing this upon her. 102

At Cross Ends “Let me tell you something. If anything happens to him, I won’t be held responsible for my actions and you will not stop me from being involved. That, gentlemen, is my final answer.” For the moment, no one argued with her. “Riley,” Miranda said, breaking her train of thought. “What? Oh, I’m sorry. I was thinking…” “I know. I’ve been trying to give you some good news.” “What?” she asked, perking up. “You’re pregnant, Riley, and from what the test shows, you should be able to go full-term without a problem.” “Really?” Miranda nodded, always happy to be the bearer of good news. She finished Riley’s exam and watched her patient hurry out of her office, knowing where she was going. Riley drove her new Range Rover home to their farm. She loved the sight of the horses grazing and their freedom to enjoy life on the huge farm the Kincaids owned. She parked in front of the house, running inside and calling Mark’s name. She heard no answer and searched the house. She went to his study and screamed. **** While Riley went to see Miranda, Mark had gone on a call when the fire department was dispatched to an accident. He pulled out of the driveway and headed to the station. The responding crew finished putting their station back into service after they effected the rescue of a middle-aged man who had hit a tree so hard, the car he’d been driving literally enveloped the trunk. They still couldn’t tell where the tree had entered the car. His report filled out and the rescue ready for the next call, Mark left to go home. Riley had gone to find out how she had been doing after her ordeal. She’d been through a great deal and had survived—physically and emotionally. Miranda had told him on more 103

At Cross Ends than one occasion that she and Spencer had been certain Mark had given Riley the best therapy in the world. He left the firehouse and stopped at the florist to pick up a dozen roses. He came out of the shop and went to his pickup, where he put the flowers on the seat before getting in. “Hey, mister, somebody needs help over there,” a small voice said. It belonged to a nine year old boy who pointed toward the woods. “What’s wrong?” he asked. “There’s a lady—she don’t feel well.” “Go over to the firehouse and tell them I’m going to see if I can do anything and have them call it in.” “Yes, sir,” the boy said, running off. Mark headed into the woods to find out if he could help. He found someone leaning against a tree, not looking well. “Ma’am, my name is Mark. Can you tell me what’s wrong?” “Yeah, somebody wants to see you.” Mark heard several weapons being cocked and readied to fire. He cursed under his breath because he stood unarmed, his gun in the truck. Never run a fire armed. “Somebody who?” “You’ll find out—now move.” Mark took a step, then started swinging. He refused to do anything they said without fighting them. One guy knocked him down while two others held him, a gun to his head. He felt his hands being cuffed behind him and began to lose his sanity as memories came flooding back to him. “I’d stop right now if I were you. Your host wants you alive and in one piece.” “Who?” “Patience, my dear fellow,” the slightly British accent replied.

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At Cross Ends Mark felt himself yanked up and dragged to a waiting van. He felt the cold metal of the vehicle’s floor on his face as his feet were bound, then shoved to the side, tape pressed over his mouth. His thoughts went to Riley and he closed his eyes, praying she’d forgive him. He felt his sleeve being pulled up, then a burning sensation. He watched the Brit empty a syringe into his arm. He fell under the sedative’s control, seeing her face. Rad, help me—please… **** While the Kincaids set up their new home together and settled into their lives, Graham Cross plotted against his archenemy. He would see Mark Kincaid dead. After his flight from the island, he’d fled to Switzerland by way of Central and South America. He needed a small army of men who obeyed orders ruthlessly and without question. He had already contracted the man who would do all of his dirty work. After all, he did not want to be caught before he carried out his plans for the one man who had been a thorn in his side for years. By the time he returned to his fortress overlooking Lake Geneva, he’d added two dozen armed Sandinistas to his payroll. They would take orders from either him or Brett Goren. He liked Goren because the man had absolutely no morals or reservations about anything Cross asked of him. They had known each other for years, since the time Cross lived in Argentina. He had Goren abduct the Devane woman for him, though he didn’t have the chance to see the man afterwards. “Mister Goren, you will grab Kincaid and leave a bloodied souvenir at his home. That should tell somebody he’s gone. Stay away from commercial carriers when you bring him here.” “Yes, sir, the charter is set up. Our pilot will take the seat after we dump the real one. We’re scheduled for refueling in Iceland and maybe two other locations. Then we’ll land at Geneva, unload 105

At Cross Ends your guest as part of a shipment of furniture to you, bring him to the castle and go from there.” “Excellent. I knew I could trust you. I should have had you with me in the islands.” “What do you want done to his wife?” “Wife?” “Yes, sir, several months now.” “Nothing right now unless she becomes a problem. She’s of no concern to me. Besides, I can talk to the grieving widow at Kincaid’s funeral.” The two men laughed. “Anything else, sir?” “I’ll let you know. Have a good trip.” “Yes, sir.” While he waited for Goren and his men to return, Graham Cross made preparations for his guest. Mark Kincaid would suffer for his actions and regret the day he’d ever heard Cross’ name before starting the campaign against him. With Mark Kincaid taken out of the picture—just maybe—Cross could return to the United States. “Graham, you’re home…” “Yes, my dear.” “You feel tight.” “I won’t once your magic takes over.” “I’ll be waiting upstairs for you.” Suze had been a gem. Never asking questions and always doing what she had been told, she loved being a submissive and made Cross’ ego swell more every time they were together. He devoted his free time to rearranging his finances, hiring a good chemist to create a designer drug especially for Kincaid, plus getting all the things needed to carry out his plan for revenge. “Mister Cross, I have some news for you.” “What is it, Brett?” 106

At Cross Ends “Mister and Mrs. Devane have reentered the social life. They’ll be at a soiree in Daytona this weekend.” “I see they are really torn up about the bitch’s death.” They laughed, the knowledge Riley Devane had survived his last party had thrilled him. She might just be of use to him yet. “Do you want to keep tabs on them, sir?” “Loosely. Kincaid’s my priority right now. Maybe I’ll go back to them later.” “Yes, sir.” “Have you finished downstairs?” “Not yet, just minor things but it will be ready.” “Good.” “I also made a second room like the chamber you’ll be hosting Mister Kincaid in. I took the liberty of placing two-way glass in the middle of the dungeon—it can either be a mirror for him to see his daily activity, or a heavy pane of glass your guest can see through.” “Very good idea.” Cross thought about it for a few minutes. “We’ll invite his wife to join the party later. They can watch each other die.” They laughed again. “Anything else, sir?” “No, but I want you to personally oversee Kincaid’s arrival.” “Yes, sir.” The man left Cross to his thoughts. He looked out over the beauty of Lake Geneva, loving this place more than anywhere else in the world. Safe here, the fortress absolutely could not be penetrated. Its location provided privacy, an important factor in his life. The history of the place had been its selling point. As he had read, the palatial estate had been owned by a count of notorious reputation. He had barely, if ever, been seen, though his manservant purchased food and supplies in the village. No one had ever been able to give an accurate description of him and no two had ever agreed. 107

At Cross Ends Several years after the count attained ownership, strange things occurred—disappearances, murder—all giving more to the legend of the tiny village’s Evil Count. One legend even had the town sending the mayor’s daughter to him to bring peace and safety to their lives, the girl never seen again. No record of what happened to her had ever been found leading to rumors of sacrificial rites and vampires. Cross had also learned that—no matter how much noise came from the castle, no one outside could hear. That had been another major selling point—the place having everything he could ever want. After settling in, he lived years in anonymity until he went to the Caymans after Riley Devane. He had been having a good time with his enemy’s daughter and had reached the point where he would contact Devane and torture him, only Kincaid entered the picture and the girl drowned. Now, he concentrated on Kincaid because Cross needed to avenge Capitán Garcia. Then came the news of Riley Devane’s survival—more fun. He planned his nemesis’ demise, his body hot as if he’d just bedded the lady waiting for him upstairs. **** Mark’s body hurt from a combination of the beatings and the rough roads they traveled. His head had bounced on the van’s metal flooring giving him a pounding headache. He didn’t know how long they’d been on the road but he realized it had been several hours after he sensed the beatings had occurred at hourly intervals. So far, he had not lost his internal clock. He felt doubly grateful he had thrown on the department’s job shirt before he responded to the rescue so he could at least keep warm. The shirt’s thickness helped to ease some of the abuse but not much. When the next round started, he wanted to heave. He could taste the bitterness of blood in his mouth. The last time he’d felt like this had been Nicaragua. Shit! These guys are fucking Sand108

At Cross Ends inistas… He began to understand—he had been abducted by and was on his way to see Graham Cross. Riley! I have to protect her! He had to put himself back in operative mode. Mark told himself over and over not to say anything about anything. He had done it for two years, he could do it again. God, there’s so much I haven’t told her. Now, I’ll probably never see her again but as long as she lives, I can die happy. When my disappearance becomes known, the department will hopefully step in and keep them safe. He prayed she would not come after him. Them! He knew she had gone to see Miranda for a check-up and to find out if she had become pregnant. He knew in his heart she carried a little Kincaid, one he more than likely would never see. Please, make sure they know me… He closed his eyes tighter when the pain in his side worsened. Pointed boot toes and rifle stocks hurt like hell. The van slowed and pulled off to the side or into a parking lot. After it stopped, he felt another injection shot into him, then a canvas tarp covered him. His last thoughts had been of his wife and unborn child. Please, Rad, don’t come after me…

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Chapter 11 Riley screamed at the sight before her. Mark’s Labrador had been stabbed, then put on his desk, everything else thrown to the floor. The knife held a piece of paper she refused to read. All she could do was scream. One of the guys who helped with the horses heard her. He called to some others, then ran into the house, following her cries. He found her in the doorway to the boss’ office, frozen and hysterical, then saw the reason why. Maggie, Mister Kincaid’s favorite Labrador, lay bleeding on his desk in a room that had been ransacked. “Mrs. Kincaid, come with me.” “Ma’am, we’ll make sure Maggie gets fixed up,” another assured her. “I’ll call the authorities as soon as I know you’re calmer,” the first one said. “Don’t call the police, call…Geoffrey…his number is in the desk. Mark told me if anything strange happened, to call him.” “Yes, ma’am. Can I call someone for you?” “Miranda… I…” Riley fainted. Duffy, the man who cared for her, put her on the couch in the living room and covered her with an afghan. He ran back to the study. “How is she, Duff?” “Passed out. Maggie?” “She’s lost a lot of blood. I sent George for the vet down at the stables.” 110

At Cross Ends “Thank God today is his scheduled day.” “Yeah, man.” **** Several hours later, the commotion at Kincaid Farms had died down. Round one had ended, two would begin soon. Riley had yet to regain consciousness but Miranda kept a watchful eye on her, constantly checking her vitals while looking for any sign of miscarriage. She said silent prayers for Riley and her unborn child. Where the hell is Mark? In the study, Maggie had been stabilized, then moved to the veterinarian’s office after the doctor carefully removed the knife from her shoulder and staved off more bleeding. The attached note had been photographed before-and-after before being given to Geoffrey deWalt. He read it and shuddered. Kincaid is a dead man! The forensics team from Justice had arrived and immediately went to work. “I don’t care what you have on the table at this moment, this case takes Priority One. I want the results of your evidence yesterday.” “Mister deWalt—phone.” “deWalt,” he answered, taking the agent’s cell phone. “We found his truck abandoned. We’ve got a team on it.” “Good. Check the fire department. Miranda thinks he responded to a call. If he did, I want time of dispatch, what he did, when the company went back in service, when he left, his mood— everything. See if you can find out if he went anywhere between the firehouse and where you found his truck.” “Yes, sir.” “Call me ASAP when you’ve got something.” “Yes, sir.”

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At Cross Ends “Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, after returning the phone to its owner, “we have an abduction here and its family. I want answers.” His cell phone rang as he took it from his pocket to make another call. “deWalt.” He listened without saying a word. “Bring them here,” he said, then shut the phone off. His call could wait. “Mister deWalt, Doctor Harmon Spencer to see you.” deWalt motioned for Spence to join him. They shook hands mechanically without noticing. “What the hell happened?” deWalt explained, then asked about Riley. “She’s in the other room with Miranda. Thank God for her,” Spencer observed. “Harmon, any idea who could be behind this?” “Graham Cross is the only name coming to mind right now. He’s been out for Mark since Nicaragua. Riley said Cross flew into a fit when Mark’s name came up and he beat her several times trying to get information out of her on him. Fortunately, Mark gave her a stronger suggestion so Cross wouldn’t get anything out of her. It saved them both.” deWalt made a call to research. “I want the complete jacket on Graham Cross and I want it all. Go out of the network if you have to. We need to get Kincaid back before Cross does anything.” “Mister deWalt, we have a witness who sold him the roses. She saw him go out to his truck and put them on the seat. Someone came up to him—a boy, she said—and Mark went with him but didn’t return.” “Are these the roses?” “Yes, sir.” “Give them to me. I’ll make sure she gets them.” 112

At Cross Ends “Yes, sir.” Geoffrey deWalt waited for the agent to leave before he turned to Spence. “So, what do we have? According to the florist, he went willingly.” “But we both know his nature. If someone came up to him— especially a young boy—and needed help, Kincaid would go with them without question.” “So we know how they got him to another place. Now, where the hell have they taken him?” He turned to another agent and told him to contact all airports and marine lines to put them on notice to watch for him. Hopefully, they could stop them from taking Kincaid out of the DC area or the country. deWalt didn’t like what he thought. My God, he could be dead already. “I hate this part of the job,” he said, taking the roses with him into the living room. **** Riley came to, screaming for her husband. Miranda tried to comfort her but she would have none of it. Riley needed Mark. “Mark!” “Riley, calm down. Think of the baby.” “I want Mark and…why are you here? Where is he?” “You passed out. I’ve been with you since shortly after it happened.” “Miranda, you’re scaring me. Where’s my husband?” “I don’t know.” “Wait a minute—it’s dark out. What time is it?” “After eight—you slept for a long while.” “Hours?” Fear paled her face, Riley emotionally on edge. “Can I come in?” “Geoffrey? Oh, my God, it wasn’t a nightmare? Duffy called you, didn’t he? Maggie—is she all right? Where’s Mark?” “Riley, it’s very real. Duffy called me, then Miranda. Maggie is at the vet’s with a superficial wound in her shoulder. She’ll be 113

At Cross Ends fine thanks to your veterinarian being here when it happened. Now, for the bad news...” “He’s gone, isn’t he?” “Brace yourself. He left the firehouse and went to the florist. She saw him speaking to a young boy, then they left together but he didn’t return. Riley, whoever did this did their homework.” “Surely there’s some clue. Why was he at the florist?” “Whatever the reason, he had gotten these for you.” deWalt handed her the long-stemmed red roses and turned. She laid them across her lap and nervously read the card. Congratulations, Mom. You’ve given me everything. Damn, Rad, I love you! Forever and always, you are my life. Riley broke into tears, holding the card he had written to her to her heart. Miranda took the roses and put them in a vase and placed it on Riley’s piano. deWalt gave Riley a kiss and left. Miranda told Riley she’d be in the kitchen, then Spencer advised her he’d be with Miranda. He closed the door on his way out and stood by the doorway. “No!” One of the agents went to go to her but Spencer stopped him. He would make sure she had the time she needed. He closed his eyes and wept for the three of them. **** The van carrying one Brit, four to six Sandinista rebel soldiers and one American hostage rumbled on through the night. Kincaid could tell they traveled on a major highway due to the evenness of the road and the occasional stops to pay various tolls. This told him they headed north, more than likely on I-95. If he remembered right, tolls had to be paid in Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey and in one or two of the New England States. Trying to keep his mind straight, he plotted out the route wondering if they would go over the Tappan Zee Bridge to cross the Hudson or through the city. 114

At Cross Ends From what he could tell, it was night. The call had gone out before noon. They’d been out an hour, got back and spent another half an hour putting the rescue back into service. He left, got the roses… The roses…did you get my note, Rad? Midafternoon to now— at least, six hours or more, which would put them somewhere between New York City and Hartford, Connecticut. He knew where they headed. If Riley had called deWalt, he would have alerted all airports and large seaports, plus major points between the United States and Canada. He cursed to himself because one point they never checked was the ferry between Bar Harbor, Maine and Nova Scotia. Shit! The van stopped. Two of the soldiers grabbed him and, after freeing him and warning him not to try anything, they shoved him into a bathroom. As the soldiers stood guard outside the small room and he could find no way to escape, he did what he had to do, washed his face off and got some water. Once they returned to the van, they bound and gagged him again and gave him another injection. “Big shot G-man,” the Brit said. “You don’t look all that dangerous to me. You look pretty used up.” The Brit kicked him and Mark doubled over. Please, God, no more! He saw a second syringe when the Brit pulled it from his pocket. This time, the guy put it into his shoulder. Mark tried to fight it but both the Brit and the sedative turned out to be stronger than him at the moment. Help me, Rad, please…

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Chapter 12 Riley looked out the window overlooking Kincaid Farms. Her hand rested on her swollen belly, her daughter active as always. She held a cell phone in her other hand, an inanimate object which had become a part of her. If any news came about her husband, she wouldn’t miss the call. It had been this way for over six months— six long months with no word of Mark’s whereabouts, any ransom demand or if he even existed. Riley Kincaid knew in her heart he was still alive but she realized he had to be in very bad shape. She knew her husband. If there had been any way he could contact her, he would have, unless it would bring harm to her and the baby. “I don’t know how he knew, but he did, little one. He knows about you and is so happy. If he were here, he’d be talking to you and telling you stories and…” Tears streamed from her eyes, the misery overwhelming her. The phone rang and startled her. “Riley Kincaid.” “Riley, it’s Geoffrey,” he said, hearing her gasp. “You have news?” “Yes, but it’s not great.” “Tell me, Geoffrey.” “Mark has been taken out of the country. They located the van we believe he was transported in abandoned at an old airstrip in Nova Scotia.” “Nova Scotia?” 116

At Cross Ends “It’s one of the points the border patrol didn’t contact that night.” “And he was in it?” “We’ve got hair samples and blood. They also found tape we believe had been used over his mouth.” “So, where do you think he is now?” “A flight plan was filed for Iceland. My guess—they took him to Europe.” “It’s been six months.” “I know, Riley, but we’ve got to be optimistic. Whoever has him hasn’t done anything rash or dire yet. They’d be bragging about it if they had.” “Why no ransom?” “I think it’s revenge and I have the feeling you more than likely know more about this than I do—especially about who we suspect.” “Graham Cross hates him for some reason.” “Mark’s been after him for years.” “He never told me why. I never wanted to talk about him or what he did to me.” “Do you remember anything?” “I’d been addicted to a designer drug. It would make me sleep but they would not allow me to. Physically, I acted normal, only I had been given several control words. He would say one and I’d trance. He said another which allowed him to do whatever he wanted to me. Elvis released me from it without any clue about what had happened. Mark found me and put me into a trance so he could give me a stronger suggestion.” “To do what?” “I was to meet him on the beach at sunset, plus I didn’t know who he was. I did but the suggestion kept me from telling Cross. It saved us both.” “How did Cross react to Mark?” 117

At Cross Ends “Violently. He used it as an excuse to beat me—several times.” “Riley, I am so sorry to put you through this again.” “Don’t be. If it helps get him home to me, the pain’s worth it.” “Now I see why he fell in love with you that day.” “What day?” “I went to see him with your godfather. He saw your picture and he turned into a man with a mission. Mark fell for you and hard.” “I miss him.” “I know. How are you feeling?” “Fat. She’s quite the athlete.” “A little girl? That’s great!” “Thanks. I tell her every day about him but it’s not the same. He should be here to…” “I know, sweetheart, and I’m doing what I can.” “Not being smart and nothing against you but it’s not enough.” “State took the priority off.” “Damn, he’s all but declared, isn’t he?” “No, Riley. Don’t believe that.” “I don’t but they do. I forgot—you guys go missing and all of a sudden, you become dispensable, expendable and a write-off.” “Riley, I’m sorry…” “So am I. Good-bye, Geoffrey.” Riley turned from the window and went to the couch. She sat down and cried. Maggie went to her, nuzzling her with her nose. Ever since the day of Mark’s abduction and her stabbing, the Lab had stayed close to Riley. Together, they shared their loss and emptiness. Maggie laid her head on Riley’s knee and looked at her. “Oh, Maggie,” she cried, holding onto the dog. “Mark, where the hell are you?” **** 118

At Cross Ends Lying on his side, bound and beaten, Kincaid felt nauseous. The van left the interstate and traveled along another highway that seemed to go through coastal towns. He could smell the ocean and the fish. He groaned when the van went over a speed bump then the ramp to the ferry for Nova Scotia. The swaying of the ship made him feel worse but he had no choice. They had made sure he could not escape. After the rest stop, his hands and feet had been chained while tape covered his mouth. The chains had been attached to cargo hooks in the floor of the vehicle. At this point, he no longer cared—all he wanted was to get back to Riley. His thoughts of her kept him sane. Thank God, she came into my life. He jumped when the ferry’s air horn blew. He didn’t want to leave the country. He needed to be home with his family. The ferry shoved off and he became sicker. He wanted to die but the best he could do was pass out and he did. When he woke, he lay on a carpeted floor. His hands tied behind him, his ankles bound together—at least he no longer had the chains on him. He felt tape over his mouth and felt sicker. He slowly and methodically looked around. He found his newest prison now flew. When did they put me on board a tube? I hate flying, especially this way. How long have we been in the air? He heard the plane begin to decelerate and knew they had to be landing to fuel up or, if he still had any luck, he’d be at his host’s location. Once the plane took off again, he knew they had a long way yet to go. An hour later, two soldiers yanked him up and dragged him to the rear of the plane. In front of him sat a crate marked clothing to make it look like someone had been moving from the States to wherever. No, don’t! Not that shit! They put him on a pile of material that one soldier pulled up and over his head. He felt it being tied together to secure it, then 119

At Cross Ends they roughly shoved him into the crate before nailing it shut. He tried to kick at the wall in front of him but wasn’t strong enough. Weakened by the beatings and no food since the morning before, he could not even help himself. Rad. I need you… **** The plane landed at another private airstrip on the outskirts of Geneva. It had been one of many used to bring tourists in during the ski season but now all flights went into the city airport. A stake truck waited for it to taxi to a stop. Once it did, a huge crate had to be off-loaded to be taken to the castle overlooking the lake. It took three soldiers to load the crate into the rear of the truck, then they hopped in the bed with the others. The Brit rode in a Mercedes-Benz leading them to their final destination. “Sir, we’ve landed and are on our way to your location. Cargo is en route also.” “Good, tell them to take it directly to the basement. I want to see you right away.” “Yes, sir.” “Any problems?” “No, sir.” “Good work.” **** Mark saw nothing but darkness. The crate he had been trapped in cramped his body. He’d be lucky to walk again but his captors didn’t care. He felt the plane land, then his prison being moved before more driving. The more he endured, the more positive he became he had been abducted by Graham Cross. Everything—the soldiers, the abuse, the use of drugs—pointed directly to Cross. He prayed the asshole had not found out who he’d married. Mark had been conditioned and trained to survive this kind of treatment. Riley had not. She’d never last, or would she? She had survived the island… No, she had to stay safe. 120

At Cross Ends The truck stopped. He felt the crate when they roughly removed it from the rear cargo area then carried it while he wondered where and how much longer. Cross had outdone himself this time. He groaned when the crate dropped, especially after his head hit the wood behind him. Please, God, no more… He heard several sets of footsteps on a polished floor when a couple of people left the room. “Open it, Brett.” “Yes, sir.” Mark’s head hurt, the pain intense, but it was even more painful when Goren used a maul on the crate. Stop it, you asshole! He felt the sides fall away before two soldiers yanked his sack out of the remains. He felt the bag being untied, relishing the cool breeze taking him into its wintry arms. He kept his eyes closed so his night vision, one good thing that had come out of his Nicaraguan ordeal, wouldn’t be affected. The tape was ripped from his mouth while one of the soldiers cut the ropes binding his hands and feet. Opening his eyes slowly, he began to take in his surroundings. Looking around, a shudder ran through him. He thought when he heard the basement, it would be that, not like a cave—dark, damp and musty smelling. He saw what he dreaded—along the walls hung shackles. He had been taken to a dungeon where he would be forgotten about. Suddenly, he saw light when someone flicked on a switch. The brightness of the fluorescent ballast overhead blinded him. “It’s been a while, Kincaid.” “Not long enough.” Mark lunged at Cross, his guards holding him back. “Amazing, still strong and angry. How long do you think you’ll last this time?” “You’re a sick bastard. How many have you killed lately?” 121

At Cross Ends “Only one but she did it to herself.” Good, he thinks Riley’s dead. Cross looked at him. He stood back, the silence deafening. He nodded and Brett went to Mark, searching him. His job shirt taken from him first, Mark now felt the cold. This time would not be easy. At least Central America had always been hot. He had never been able to deal with the cold. His watch, West Point ring and wallet, along with his leather work boots went next. “Very nice body—you’ve been working out, haven’t you?” “Go to hell!” “You know the routine.” “I swear I will kill you.” “You’ll try—in the meantime, I’ll hold onto these things and give them to your wife when I finally see her. I want to meet the woman stupid enough to marry you. Maybe I’ll bring her here and let her watch you die, like I’m sure she watched that bitch Lab of yours. Goren didn’t like her snippy attitude when we searched your study.” Mark’s mind raced. Thank God Riley had been out. If they killed my dog, what would they have done to my wife? What have I gotten her into? God, don’t let them find her! “Don’t worry, Kincaid, she’s got a little time. I have some business matters to take care of and I want to enjoy your race for survival. Hell, why should I watch those shows on television when I’ve got true reality here?” Cross laughed. “Brett, do the honors.” Four soldiers dragged Mark over to the wall. He fought them but knew it would be a losing battle. They had the upper hand over his weakened body. His mind shot back to Nicaragua, reliving it for real instead of in his nightmares.

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At Cross Ends The overhead light went out leaving him with the faint light from a desk to illuminate his prison. He shut everything out and focused on his wife. At least, this time, she’d be his saving grace. If you are caught and imprisoned, focus your mind on something that eases it. Concentrate on that one thought or concept. His training came back as if it had never left him but always lurked in the shadows. He relaxed his body to conserve strength— unnecessary physical activity had to be avoided. His mind escaped to home with his wife and their farm, the fire department… Riley, I’m sorry… Weeks turned into months with daily beatings and the leanest diet—water and maybe food. Mark Kincaid physically withstood it but how long would he be able to?

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Chapter 13 Riley waited for news. It had been eight months with no word. The baby would be born soon and her father had not been found. Riley had been told the trail had gone cold. The agency hadn’t been able to track his whereabouts after the van had been located in Nova Scotia. She knew he hadn’t died—she would have felt it somehow. His so-called friend had stopped taking her calls, going completely incommunicado. The only reason she had to believe the government did not list him as dead had been his paychecks. They still came like clockwork. Riley had taken them and put them in the bank for him. He’d be the one to decide what to do with his money. Spence warned her if Mark survived captivity, he might come back a changed man—withdrawn, fearful, distrustful. She had to prepare herself for this and banking his checks had been one way. Geoffrey had made sure some of Mark’s pay went into a trust for their child because she had her own money—especially now. Cross had struck again. Her parents had gone to London to celebrate their anniversary and never came back. The newspapers said the car they drove had gone out-of-control and over a cliff. The Bentley had exploded and her parents had died instantly. Scotland Yard ruled it an accident but Geoffrey’s men had found traces of C4. Cross had gotten to her parents, ending his attacks on her family—for the moment. God, I hope it’s over. I have to protect you and you have to see your father. He has to see you. 124

At Cross Ends Maggie joined her. The Lab had been her comfort. She gazed into Maggie’s soulful eyes, relieved she had made a full recovery after the attack. Riley couldn’t imagine making it through the last several months and her pregnancy without Maggie. They walked through the house—her everyday routine. They ended up in the nursery—another everyday routine. Her routine sucked. She and Maggie were alone and would remain that way—all thanks to one man’s hatred. Sitting in her rocking chair with Maggie at her side, she thought. The baby had been active, wearing her out as she neared term. “Any day now, Maggie.” She rested her hand on the dog’s head and gazed into the eyes staring up at her from her nonexistent lap. The first pain came, Riley crying out. This hadn’t been explained to her. She couldn’t be due yet. She reached for the cell phone to call Miranda. “She’s coming,” she cried before she dropped the phone. Maggie barked, unsure of her mistress. Not this fast—it’s too soon. “Ow!” Riley tried to get up and make it to the bedroom but instead, she collapsed. “Mark, please, I need you!” **** Miranda and a medical team from Bethesda flew to Kincaid Farms. The pilot landed and they ran from the helicopter to the house. Miranda unlocked the door, Riley having given her a key for emergencies. “Riley!” she called. “Riley…” She ran to the stairs telling the team Riley had been in the nursery when she called. Once they got to the door of the nursery, she saw Riley and gasped. “My God, Riley!” 125

At Cross Ends She found Riley unconscious on the floor, Maggie next to her. The dog allowed Miranda to go to her but fended off the medical team. “Call Harmon Spencer. Get him over here—now,” she ordered the flight nurse. “Yes, Doctor.” “You—get Duffy the foreman. He can help with Maggie,” she told the other medic. She turned back to Riley and tried to make her patient more comfortable, making a pillow for her head using her own jacket. She did a quick exam. “Damn it, her water’s broken. We do the delivery here.” She carefully removed Riley’s loose-fitting dress and laid her back, covering the upper part of her body with the garment. Her heart sounded good while her blood pressure seemed a little high. “Doctor Wallace?” “Duffy, get Maggie out of the room. She won’t let my team near Riley. I’m afraid she’ll go crazy if Riley screams.” “Ma’am, I wouldn’t do that. She’s too close to Mrs. Kincaid.” “Can you keep her calm?” “Yes, ma’am.” “Then do what you have to.” “Oh…” “Riley, it’s Miranda.” “The baby?” “So far, so good but you’re going to have her here. We don’t have time to get you to the hospital beforehand but we’ll fly you in after the blessed event.” “Ow…my God, why didn’t you tell me about this?” “I thought we had time yet.” “Yeah, right.” **** An hour later, Lacey Annabelle Kincaid uttered her first cry. Riley held her daughter—her last piece of the man she loved. 126

At Cross Ends “Where’s my girl?” “Right here, ma’am.” “Maggie, come. Meet Lacey.” Maggie cautiously went to her, sniffed at the baby and laid her head on Riley’s leg. “Lacey, you’ve just met your best friend. She’ll keep you safe.” Miranda breathed a sigh of relief. She had dreaded what would happen if Maggie became territorial and didn’t accept the newest member of the Kincaid family. Riley would never have handled the possibility of putting her down—not with Mark missing.

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Chapter 14 As her life went, Riley Kincaid had a good one. She owned land in two states, had a beautiful daughter, who, at three months, looked exactly like her father—only her dad had never laid eyes on her. Twelve months, one extremely long year and no word or clues about where he had been taken, all she knew had been what Geoffrey told her. Graham Cross had become chief suspect in Mark’s disappearance and her parents’ deaths the previous summer. Riley had not given up on Mark, though Geoffrey had told her the agency would not wait forever. She couldn’t wait forever, though she would if she had no other choice. She needed Mark and it grew worse each day they remained apart. After putting Lacey down, she went to the study—Mark’s own little corner of the world where no one intruded. It had remained in a state of disarray for a year. The only thing she’d had done had been cleaning the blood off the desk and out of the carpet. Riley had stayed out of the room because she kept envisioning Maggie’s bloody body sprawled on the desk across Mark’s papers. Maggie had healed but even she felt hesitant about the room. “Maggie, if he’s ever coming home, the answer’s got to be in there.” The dog withdrew some and knew Riley understood. Riley entered the room and went straight for the desk. She gasped when she saw an envelope in the center of the mess—pure white without 128

At Cross Ends any bloodstains. She immediately called Geoffrey deWalt and left him a message to call her. Her hand touched it and pulled back as if she’d been burned. The phone rang. “Geoffrey?” “No, Mrs. Kincaid, I’m sorry. I needed to get your okay to set the appointment for the Lockwood project.” “Make it next month. I may be going out of town for a bit on personal business.” “Yes, ma’am. Thank you.” Her secretary hung up. Riley could not begin to think about RAD Designs, her successful architectural firm. She had reestablished herself in the business, starting her own group and hit immediately. It had become one of the reasons she still banked Mark’s paycheck. If he did return a different man, she’d be able to support herself, Lacey and Maggie without a problem. She hung up and looked at the envelope again. She finally picked it up again, ignoring the ominous feelings of evil she felt. She’d never get anywhere if she didn’t. It had been addressed to Mrs. Mark Kincaid. It seemed odd to her as she pulled out the paper inside. Greetings, Your husband has been a guest of mine for a year now. What do we do? Do I let him live to try and come after me, or let him die? His life seems to be dependant upon my goodwill. Do not get your hopes up, Mrs. Kincaid. He will not be released. He’s an inconvenience and must be gotten rid of. Consider this my wedding gift. Go find yourself a real man. Riley sat back and cried. Mark is alive and not in good shape. From the tone of the letter, he didn’t have much time left. She called Geoffrey again with no luck. Then she dialed another number and prayed. “Uncle George, I need your help… Yes, we’ll be there. Thanks.” 129

At Cross Ends She grabbed the letter and ran upstairs to change and dress Lacey. Once done, she called Geoffrey again and left a message he’d respond to. “Geoffrey, I need a forensics team at Kincaid Farms. There’s been a break-in in Mark’s study. I have proof he’s alive and I know who’s behind his kidnapping. You can find your way in by the study doors. If you need me, I’ll be with Uncle George.” The three of them got into her Land Rover, Maggie on the seat next to Lacey’s car seat. She headed straight into the city of Washington, DC and to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. She made the trip in record time and pulled up to the Marine guard at the gate. “Good day, Gunny. My uncle’s expecting me.” “Yes, ma’am.” He motioned for her to drive through the gate, then she went onto the grounds of the White House, a huge and intimidating mansion. She carried Lacey while Maggie followed after she allowed another Marine to take her car to the parking area. “Riley, it’s good to see you,” one of his aides said, greeting her. “He’s waiting in the private residence.” “I think I remember the way. Can you get someone to watch Maggie? I don’t think the First Spaniel would appreciate her invasion.” “Of course, it’s good to see you.” “Thanks.” Riley entered through an entrance reserved for family and friends. She went up a short flight of stairs and into the kitchen, where she met Cordelia, one of the household staff who she’d known since Uncle George’s father occupied the house. “You brought the babe,” she said, beaming. “I knew you’d want to see her. Besides, I can’t be the only one in her life.” “Can she count the President of the United States in her circle of admirers?” “Yes, Uncle.” 130

At Cross Ends He hugged her and smiled at Lacey, a quick smile on her young face. The place overwhelmed Riley but Lacey didn’t seem bothered. “Cordelia, if you wouldn’t mind?” She took Lacey so Riley could speak with her godfather. They went into the First Family’s living quarters and sat down on the couch. “I take it this is serious?” “You know I wouldn’t ask if it wasn’t important.” “I know,” he said, taking her hand. “How can I help?” “You know my husband was kidnapped a year ago?” “Yes.” “I got this tonight. I don’t know who left it or when, but I found it on Mark’s desk.” She handed the letter to him and saw the look on his face. “Gutzy bastard. I take it you know who is holding him?” “Graham Cross.” “Are you serious?” he asked, Riley nodding. “When he held me on the island, he got word Mark was in the area. For several days, he beat me to get me to tell him if I knew Mark, how I knew Mark and who of importance I had ties with.” “What did you tell him?” “Nothing. I didn’t know who Mark was. I met him a few days later and he gave me a suggestion to keep me from saying anything about himself or you or anyone else. Uncle, if I said anything, I’m sorry but he had me under the control of mind-altering drugs. Mark learned the words he used as controls for me and used them to my advantage.” “What else?” “Cross disappeared until he surfaced last year. I believe he’s the one who had my parents killed and I know he’s holding my husband.” “Where?” 131

At Cross Ends “I don’t know but there is one other angle. He doesn’t know I’m alive. I’m sure he thinks I drowned. I need to make myself obvious to lure him out.” “No way will that be allowed.” “Uncle, it’s the only way. Geoffrey deWalt ignores my calls. I want Mark back.” “What do you want from me?” “I need some of your next-best men to guard me. If I’m taken, they can follow, save our hides and get Cross.” “Have you thought about Lacey?” “I want Cordelia to keep her. She’ll be safe here.” “Why do you want the next best? Why not the best?” “The best is out there somewhere at the mercy of a sadistic madman. I want him back.” “Stay here, I’ll have dinner sent in. I’m going to go make some calls.” “Uncle George—one other thing. I know you can do this. You did it for me by sending Mark after me. You gave me a chance with the most awesome man in the world. Don’t take him away!” “I won’t. Now, eat, you’ll need your strength.” “Thanks, Uncle George.” **** Riley left the White House alone. Maggie had found a friend in another gunnery sergeant and Cordelia had settled into her new task of taking care of Lacey. Riley gave her the name of someone at the ranch that’d be bringing her Lacey’s clothes the next day. She pulled into the long driveway of Kincaid Farms and cried. She felt like she had no one left in her life. She drove into the garage, her four tails already in position. They would be invisible to anyone but her—the reason they could be called next best. Going into the house, she stopped hearing the sound of Geoffrey’s voice coming from the living room. 132

At Cross Ends “Get out, Geoffrey. I don’t need you to tell me there’s no news.” “I don’t think you’re that stupid.” “All right,” she said, slipping her shoes off. “What do you want? I’ve been trying to get in touch with you for over nine months. You’re too busy, not in, left, just left, aren’t coming in, out of the country and, oh, the one I really love—how is Mars, Geoffrey?” “Riley…” “Geoffrey, I called you earlier and got your usual no reply. Someone broke in here, leaving something directly related to Mark’s abduction. I requested forensics to get clues, information or evidence. You show up here after ignoring me and expect me to welcome you with open arms?” “You went over my head.” “No, Mister deWalt, I went to my godfather.” “Who happens to be the sitting President of the United States.” “Oh, I get it. My father could go to him to have a government agent come after me but I can’t go to him to find his best operative. Get your…” “Riley…” “Get out, Geoffrey. I thought you were his friend.” “I am.” “No, you’re not. You haven’t done shit to find him.” “I have. I couldn’t send a SEAL team or Delta Force in until we knew where he’d been held. We finally have a complete list of Cross’ properties. We’ve been trying to narrow it down to the ones he might be at, then we’ll go from there.” “How long have you had this knowledge?” “Uh…” “That’s what I thought. Don’t bullshit me, Geoffrey. Uncle George had answers last night. We have plans to…” 133

At Cross Ends “Get Mark back by you acting as a decoy to lure Cross out. Are you insane? You are not an operative. You’re untrained…” “I am a woman who will do anything to get her husband back. But I guess you can’t relate to that from your friggin’ ivory tower. Am I threatening your position?” “Riley, you can’t be serious! What if something happens to you? Have you thought about your daughter?” “She’s all I have thought about since she was born. She needs her father; I need my husband.” “You’re telling me you need a man you don’t even know.” She paced, walking around the room before looking out the window. She went to the bookcase and aimlessly looked at the volumes on the shelves. She reached up and pulled one down to look at. She turned to the window, her back to her husband’s betrayer. When she turned back to him, he started. “Get out of my home—Mark’s house—or I swear to God, I’ll shoot you as an intruder,” she firmly ordered as she held a .9 mm on him. “Riley…” “Get out and don’t ever come back. Do not make me tell my husband how you let him rot two years in Central America and now another year at Cross’ sick mercy. Do not make me tell him you’ve stabbed him in the back every chance you got. I’m surprised you haven’t told Cross who I am and about our daughter.” “Riley, I…” he began. She knew he had thoughts of disarming her. “Don’t, Geoffrey, this dumb little drug-addicted architect can shoot and put the bullets where I want them.” “Ma’am?” “In here, Captain.” “Geoffrey deWalt, by Executive Order, I’m placing you under arrest, the charges to be specified.” “Riley, you’ve just signed your death warrants.” 134

At Cross Ends “You signed them a long time ago. You sold out not only your country, but your friend as well. You took my daughter’s father away from her as well as the man I love. You can rot in hell, just like you’ve made him do.” As soon as Captain Goldsmith removed deWalt from her home, Riley slumped into a chair and cried. Her body shook out of control while she sought some kind of relief. She curled up, holding Mark’s automatic to her heart. She heard footsteps on the hardwood floor of the entry and froze. “Mrs. Kincaid, I’m Under-Secretary of State at Justice, Thomas Blake. I’m…” “Can I see your ID? I’m sure you’ll understand.” “Yes, ma’am. I never argue with a dumb little drug-addicted architect whose brandishing a .9 mm. That was very good.” “I was serious, Mister Blake. I can shoot and put the shots where I aim.” “I know. Right after you and Mark married, we had a meeting. He knew there had been a leak somewhere but we had no suspects. We spoke about you because I wondered how the White House chose to become involved. He told me you outshot him on the range when he thought he was teaching you. He said the…” “…Student became the teacher and the teacher, a student.” “I like your fire, Mrs. Kincaid. Would you consider joining our small staff?” “You can’t be serious…” “I am. You are a light where darkness falls. You have the outlook I look for when I need new operatives.” “Thank you, sir but I have more important things to worry about. I have a husband gone missing, a three month old daughter, a business to run and two properties in two states. I couldn’t even begin to think about…” “Ma’am, any woman who can get the Presidential staff to take her young daughter for the duration of God knows what, has an of135

At Cross Ends fice staff she’s able to trust and enjoy the luxury of both properties running themselves while trying to find Mark—I’d say you could very well work for me. You did it just now.” “I did it to get Mark back and Cross out of our lives—purely personal.” “You think you’re being selfish?” “Yes.” “You’re not. You’re doing it for more than that, even though you can’t see it.” “Sir…” “Tom, please. I’ve known Mark since he was a boy. We’re close.” “Like deWalt?” “Closer. He’s my stepbrother.” “What?” she asked, shocked. “Wait a minute—where the hell have you been the last year? Why have you let him…” “Only a few people know about our relationship. It’s been safer and easier this way, especially with the leak. Outside of your uncle and you, no one else knows. I hope you’ll keep our secret.” “Yes, of course,” she slowly replied, stunned. “Wait a minute, how do I know this isn’t another…” “Good, you’re very good. Mark said you would want to know if I was telling the truth. Mark told me—no matter what happened—I was to tell you something.” “What?” “I was to tell you for him—and I quote—Rad, I love you!” Riley broke down in tears. No one knew—no one unless Mark said something. She had found an oak tree in a barren field. Thank you, my love! **** With deWalt’s arrest, Riley had a problem. The mole Cross had bought was on ice, how, she didn’t know and didn’t want to. She felt bad enough knowing she had been a party to him being ex136

At Cross Ends posed and silenced. Mark’s life was more important. She had to keep telling herself this. She called the office to check on how Lilah made out setting up the Lockwood appointment. “He’d like it today since he’s leaving the country for an extended stay in Europe.” “Fine, set up a lunch meeting.” A few minutes later, Lilah called her with the time and place. She remembered their last meeting when she thought of him as Mister Boring. She’d agreed to design an environmentally friendly building using the trees and natural beauty to its advantage while not removing them. The location sat on prime acreage in Maryland and she’d lost the contracts thanks to Cross. Hopefully, this time would be different and she’d at least sign the contracts. She made a cup of tea while she gathered her thoughts. She missed Lacey and it felt strange without Maggie at her feet or nearby. Poor Maggie—didn’t anyone realize she hurt too? She’d been with Mark since birth, her mother one of his bird dogs when he went hunting. She had not handled the events of that day well at all. Riley could finally walk into Mark’s study because she seemed to feel close to him there. The only other place where she could sense him had been their bedroom but even that had begun to fade. She refused to let go of him without a fight. She went to the French doors to open one. Her hand froze over the doorknob when she noticed it sitting ajar. Someone had been in the house again. Riley looked around and found nothing out of place but she did find another envelope—this one addressed to Riley Kincaid. Her heart sank from the realization Cross knew. Now, it would only be a matter of time. Picking up the phone, she called Tom Blake, the call going through to him directly. “Riley, what’s wrong?” 137

At Cross Ends “Someone was here after you left last night.” “What happened?” “Nothing. Mark’s study is fine and so’s the rest of the place but another envelope was left and it was addressed to me as Riley Kincaid.” “Damn it. Riley, carefully and with as little touching as possible, pull the paper from the envelope. We’re going to hold onto it for evidence.” “Done.” “What does it say?” He heard her gasp. “Riley?” “I’m here. It says: We know who you are. You’ll die with him.” “Riley, I want you in protective…” “No, we do that and I’ll never see Mark again.” “I cannot let you go out there and play decoy. Mark’ll kill me if he finds out.” “Tom, I have to. No arguments—tomorrow, I start making some noise.” “I don’t like it,” he stated. “How about we talk about it tonight?” “We will—trust me.” “I do, Tom, and thanks.” “For what?” “Being the family I seem to have lost.” “Mark told me you’re special and I agree.” “Come over for dinner. I haven’t cooked for somebody in a long time.” “Sure. Eight?” “Good.” They hung up, Riley feeling better knowing someone actually believed her. She went upstairs and took a shower. The heat of the water eased her aching muscles. She leaned against the back wall of the shower stall and imagined Mark with her, massaging her body 138

At Cross Ends before making erotic love to her. She felt a dampness between her legs, and not from the shower. Memories of erotic showers when he pinned her against the wall before he drove his gorgeous cock into her waiting pussy drove her crazy. She felt her nipples harden wanting his mouth suckling one while he tortured the other. Her body cried out for his. “My God, I love you, Kincaid.” She finished her shower, got out and toweled dry. She put the towel over the stand, then strode naked into the bedroom. Hold it together, Riley! She’d decided to wear a black suit to the meeting with Lockwood. She slipped into a lacy black thong and garter belt then stockings. Next, she put on the skirt, held together by a button at her hip and five on the side above a long slit. Instead of wearing a blouse, she put on the vest. Low-cut in the front, she liked the look. Mark would have loved it, since they had first been together, she had gone topless when it came to her lingerie, partly to please Mark, but mostly, because she needed the freedom. So far, the look was enough to make a man stutter. Would Mister Boring? The jacket gracefully fell over the vest and skirt giving her a professional appearance while she felt sexy as hell for the first time in a long while. She slid into heels, brushed her hair and left the house to meet Lockwood. **** “Riley? You are looking wonderful,” the maitre d’ greeted her. “Thank you,” she replied as he let go of her hand. “My sympathies on the loss of your husband and parents.” “Again, thank you, although my husband’s very much alive. How did you happen to hear?” she asked nonchalantly. 139

At Cross Ends “Waiter,” he called, effectively changing the subject. He turned back to her. “Your guest took the liberty of ordering.” “Thank you,” she acknowledged. Fortunately, she loved the place and knew the staff. One of them would know whether she would be happy with her meal. From the front door, the maitre d’ escorted her to one of the booths along the window. She always enjoyed the warmth of the sunlight. Today, she felt she couldn’t get warm enough. Lockwood arrived minutes after she had been seated. He began by apologizing for being late. Riley nodded when she realized two things—Lockwood hadn’t changed one bit since their previous meeting, and the hint of a British accent. Something else hit her as well, Riley ignoring her suspicions. When the plates had been removed, they ordered coffee. Riley rose to go to the ladies’ room then returned. Their coffee had already been served and they discussed the contracts. Riley put the unsigned documents in her briefcase to sign and messenger back. She finished her coffee and got up to leave, Lockwood standing. They said good-bye and Riley left. Standing outside and waiting for her Land Rover, she noticed her shadows, relieved. Lockwood came up behind her as her Land Rover had been brought to the front of the restaurant. “Get in your car, Mrs. Kincaid, and drive where I tell you to.” “You were a part of the first kidnapping.” “That I was, although I did not get the pleasure of your company as I will now,” he said, poking the barrel of a gun into her side. She slid across the seat, missing the shift as she swung her leg over it. The view did not go unnoticed.

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Chapter 15 Hours later, they pulled off at a rest area in New Hampshire, a place dark, desolate and deserted. He escorted her to the ladies’ room, then waited outside the stall for her. “Is this the route you took with my husband?” “Shut up!” She knew she’d hit a nerve. He took her back to her Land Rover and forced her to sit on the right side, where he bound her hands behind her. “Be quiet and I won’t gag you.” “Bastard!” she muttered while he walked to the mens’ room. She tried to free herself but he’d been smart. The rope he used to bind her to the seat had been tied off to the seat’s frame. The man returned and came to her looking at her ravishing beauty. He ran his fingertip down the side of her face before he held the barrel of his gun at her chest. “Not one word or you’ll never see your old man again.” He liked her reaction as she trembled while he unbuttoned the top button of her vest. “Very nice,” he complimented, impressed by how she looked, his arousal evident from barely touching her. He shut the door and went around to the driver’s side, sliding her seat back to adjust for his longer legs. He looked at his captive, his eyes traveling down her body to her thigh, the slit of her skirt showing off a beautiful leg. He slid his hand along the slit, undoing all the buttons except the one at her waist. 141

At Cross Ends “You are a beauty,” he said, resting his hand on her leg just above the stocking. “I don’t think your boss would approve. If I remember right, he’s very territorial.” “I won’t tell.” “I might,” she said. “Bitch!” He drove north into Maine then along Route 1 to the road leading to Bar Harbor. They met the ferry to Nova Scotia and took it to Canada. Lockwood didn’t try anything more, Riley grateful for small blessings. All she thought about was seeing her husband again. She dozed off, tied to the seat, safe in the knowledge Blake’s men were behind them. **** Mark Kincaid’s body hung from the chains shackling him to the dungeon’s wall. He had been starved, his body weak. He’d lost track of time but no longer cared. He’d never get out of this place until he’d died and then, he knew he’d never leave. Cross was that sadistic. His thoughts focused on his wife but each day became harder because his brain had trouble working. His few exercises to keep his circulation up throughout his body had become harder. If he ever got away, he’d never be able to walk. If he made it, he’d be a cripple. God, Riley, I can’t do that to you. You deserve better. “Good morning, Kincaid. It’s a beautiful sunny day over the lake. It’s such a shame you can’t appreciate it.” Mark didn’t answer, his mouth dry. It hurt to talk and swallow. “I must say, you look wretched. What will your wife say?” Ignoring the taunt, Mark thought she’d mother him and make him feel better. It would never happen. He had too many broken bones that had healed wrong. He couldn’t be fixed again. 142

At Cross Ends “I hate one-sided conversations.” Cross left, replaced by two soldiers. Time for the day’s first round of abuse. In the beginning, he had been able to withstand the hits but it had become increasingly impossible. They leveled two hard blows and he lapsed off, unconscious. **** “I think Kincaid is almost finished. A few more days and they’re both out of my life for good.” Cross laughed, then went upstairs and out onto one of the turrets of his castle. He took in the view of Lake Geneva and the surrounding landscape. His eyes rested on a small cemetery where he had ordered two graves prepared—the Kincaids’ final resting place. Cross smiled—life looked great. **** Lockwood hustled Riley to a waiting Lear jet. Once on board, he bound her to a seat, then fastened her seat belt. She saw the leering look he gave her and trembled. She knew he’d take his chances against Cross, his willpower almost gone. “Stay away from me.” Lockwood slapped her. “I will do what I please. If you don’t keep quiet, I will shut you up without a thought.” His hand slid up her leg, trying to part them but she held them together refusing him access to her body. He would not take her without a fight. She thought of Mark and felt comfort. She’d see him soon—she hoped. Lockwood used some more pressure and she kicked him. Mister Boring fell back, cursing her. She had just pushed the Brit over the edge. He reeled back and hit her, then bound her feet and gagged her with his tie. Lockwood hated her and her husband. He would have a few moments with her in his specially designed cell while 143

At Cross Ends her husband helplessly watched. By the time he and his men finished, Kincaid wouldn’t want her. He pulled a syringe out of his pocket, his captive’s eyes widening with fear. She tried to keep him from injecting it into her arm, fighting a losing battle. A few seconds passed before she slept from the sedative he’d given her. “Sleep well, my bitch. You’ll need your strength.” **** “Under-Secretary Blake’s office.” “Is he in?” “Yes, Colonel Chandler. Hold, please.” He waited until he heard the man’s voice. “Colonel, one moment.” Chandler heard the line being scrambled knowing the sensitive nature of the mission while considering the ties to the White House. He knew Kincaid—a good man, solid operative, loyal to the end. They had worked together several times, Chandler trusting Kincaid with his six. Chandler had also led the team into Nicaragua to get Kincaid out. He remembered the long, tedious search for Kincaid. The camp had been well hidden in the hills. From the satellite, it appeared to be a small village. A popular cover, the terrorists would find a village, then make the people protect them by threatening their lives, not a pretty situation. This village had been secluded from the start, but the area just north of it had been hidden even more, the terrorists digging in. When they finally located Kincaid, it had been after seventeen months of surveillance. Every time they found him, the rescue teams would find they missed him by a day—one time, by hours. They had gotten a solid tip about where Capitán Garcia had him held from a captive villager. “White man,” she had confirmed when Chandler interrogated her. “You’d better be telling me the truth.” “Sí, sí,” she said, begging for his mercy. 144

At Cross Ends “Lieutenant, I want a chopper up with thermal imaging. If he or any other Americans are in there, they won’t last must longer.” He hadn’t liked what the woman had said about the man’s condition. “When did you see him?” “A few days ago.” “How was he?” “Muy malo.” Chandler heard Blake’s voice, coming back to the present. “What have you got for me?” “She was taken from the restaurant and driven to Bar Harbor. They left her car, then boarded a private plane. Flight plan had been logged to a small airstrip in Iceland. I have our unit up there working on that end.” “Was she all right?” “She’s got spunk, I’ll tell you that. At a deserted rest area, Lockwood tried to take advantage of her and failed. Kincaid’s got himself a fire star.” “I noticed that the other night when she took Geoffrey deWalt for us. She’s got one goal—him.” “Any info on Lockwood?” “Real name is Brett Goren. Born in England, thirty years old. Had worked at RAF Continental until discharged. Cross hired him several years back, no job title. He met Riley Devane at a dinner meeting the night she was first abducted almost two years ago.” “Interesting. No wonder they had their claws in so deep,” Chandler observed. “Keep me informed. I want to know the minute you find out where she’s been taken.” “Yes, sir.” Blake hung up and thought about Riley Kincaid. He had been against this plan but relented because he knew she had to be Kincaid’s only chance. She had the good sense to have a monitor put 145

At Cross Ends on her and he prayed they would learn where she was before Cross found it. Riley Kincaid would make a good operative but Blake knew whatever the outcome of all this turned out to be, she’d be so very untouchable. Her godfather wouldn’t allow it, neither would her husband and he knew for sure her next mission would be Kincaid. He had come to admire her fierce loyalty, Mark Kincaid a very lucky man. **** Kincaid didn’t feel lucky at all. He couldn’t keep his existence going any longer. Death had hovered over him for several months, now he saw his end. His sole focus had become speeding it up. He looked at his wrists and started working at the metal of the shackles knowing if he cut the vein, he’d bleed out. Riley, I’m sorry. I tried to stay alive to come back to you. I can’t do this. I can’t survive this. I… He closed his eyes, willing himself to do the unthinkable. Off in the distance, he heard the guards talking about another prisoner being brought in. His mind raced. Where am I? Am I back in the jungle or… No, not Riley, it can’t be… A tear breached his dry eye, burning it. He felt it burn every bit of the skin it ran along. He wanted to die even more for failing to protect her. He failed to keep his promise to keep her safe. He’d failed at being her husband. Unforgivable… If he survived this, he’d beg her to forgive him and would understand if she didn’t, or he’d walk away from her and never see her again whether she hated him or not. He wouldn’t give her the chance to—he’d make it easy. Liar! You know you can’t do it. You love her too damned much. **** Riley woke, laying on a couch in a huge study. She looked around seeing bookshelves on the wall in front of her, artwork along the other walls, ancient tapestries by the windows. She had a 146

At Cross Ends feeling she had been taken to a castle or medieval fortress of some kind somewhere in Europe having learned about them in college. She cursed. The places had been built to be impenetrable. No wonder they hadn’t been able to find him. Now, they wouldn’t find her. Shit! What would happen now? When she tried to sit up, her mind spun, an aftereffect of the sedative. Since her abduction to the Caymans, she hadn’t been able to take injections of any kind because her veins had been damned near destroyed. It had scared her when she had Lacey. She had trouble with medications of any kind, all thanks to the man holding the cards now. “Ah, my slave’s awake,” a voice said. She looked toward where the sound came from. Her heart slammed against her chest at the sight of Graham Cross. “Where’s my husband?” “What’s left of him you mean?” She fell back, her head spinning. “Faint of heart?” “No, the sedative—I have you to thank for that.” “What?” he asked, suspicion in his voice. “All those needles you gave me damned near collapsed my veins. I can’t handle any of it anymore.” “What a shame? I had plans.” “That’s nice. Give me my husband and we’ll leave.” “I like your sense of humor. Very different from when I saw you last.” “Where’s my husband?” She heard a click as a door slid to the side, revealing a large, flat-screened monitor. “Watch.” She looked at it and choked. She saw Mark, chained and beaten. If she had not known it to be her husband, she would never 147

At Cross Ends have recognized him. Am I even looking at Mark, or is it someone else? Riley saw what she needed to make her sure it was definitely him. Taking notice of the date on the video, she became sicker. The film had been shot the month before. Mark could be dead already. “Where is he?” “You’re looking at him.” “A month ago.” “Very clever. My apologies for not giving you the credit you deserve.” “Go to hell!” She finally sat up, but the pain of seeing Mark coupled with the migraine she tried to ignore caused her to hold her head in her hands. She couldn’t see straight from it, wishing she could be stronger. “I see your manners…” “Don’t talk to me about manners after all you’ve done.” “Learn this now, Riley Devane Kincaid. If you expect to save your sorry lives, you’ll have to do exactly as you are told.” “How do I know he’s still alive?” “You don’t.” “You cannot control me any longer. I know what you’ve done to me, my husband, and my parents. Maybe we’d be better off dead and out of your reach.” “Take a look.” She looked at the screen and caught her breath. She heard a sharp tone, then Cross spoke. “Señor Ramirez, su placer, por favor.” “What?” she asked as Cross came over to her to stand beside her. “Look, damn it!” She watched a man go to her husband. In his hand, he held a knife he then pressed against Mark’s neck. “No!” 148

At Cross Ends “Watch!” “Stop it!” she cried, holding her head in her hands and covering her eyes. “Look at your husband,” he ordered, grabbing her by a handful of hair, forcing her to look at Mark’s torture. “Look or I’ll order worse.” “Stop it!” she shrieked. While Cross forced her to watch, he put his lips to her ear. “Behave and it stops. Come to my bed of your own free will and he lives.” “Not until I know for sure he’s alive,” she whispered, pain searing her brain. “He’s alive.” “And you are a liar. You have your agenda and he’s damned near dead. He’s been trained to accept it. I won’t whore myself to you. We’d both be better off dead than owing you. I don’t believe you and I know Mark wouldn’t.” He yanked her up, facing her and glaring at her. She saw something in his eyes—a hatred she had never seen on anyone’s face. “You bitch!” Cross pulled her out of the room and dragged her up several flights of a stone staircase. Along the way, she lost her shoes, Riley having trouble attempting to keep up with him because of his long strides. Riley tried to pull free, his grip far too strong. “Stop this, you bastard. Take me to Mark.” “Soon but I have other plans for you before that.” Riley’s heart stopped momentarily, her mind reliving his violent attacks from memories she didn’t realize she had. She shuddered at her mind’s visions, ones hidden deep in her soul. All of Miranda’s sessions barely touched on what had been done to her, 149

At Cross Ends allowing her to accept it. The images vivid, she now knew everything that had happened to her while captive of a madman. Chains, sex toys, whips… Bondage, abuse… Rape, violent rape… Blood—her blood. Pain. Riley fought more. He wouldn’t touch her again, not while she could fight him or breathed air. The more she did though, the stronger his grip on her became. He dragged her down a hallway to a door, opened it and yanked her through the opening before he threw her on the floor. He locked the door and pocketed the key, then went to a panel next to the doorjamb where he entered a code. He walked over to her but she tried to push away from him. “If you try to leave this room, you will be dead. The room is armed and only I know the code to disarm it.” “Get away from me, you murdering bastard.” “Come here. You call me a murderer. Didn’t you murder our child?” “Your spawn? You’re conceited enough to think I’d have your child after you raped me?” “You came to me.” “Under a hypnotic suggestion. What kind of therapy do you call that?” “You are my slave.” “Never again, Cross.” He slapped her before his hand went to her neck. She tried to dislodge his grip but hadn’t gotten her strength back from the latest abduction. She hadn’t eaten in twenty-four hours and the sedative made her sicker. The sight of Mark made everything worse. Before she knew what had happened, her jacket had been ripped off. The buttons to the vest torn off, she saw one button roll 150

At Cross Ends under a table. She felt relief since the tiny unit she wore so Blake’s team could track her hid in a safe place. Maybe, there was hope yet. Cross’ grip tightened before he pulled a knife and cut her vest from her, followed by the buttons holding her skirt together. He cut her lacy thong and garter next, then sliced her stockings. She fought him every chance she could but failed to free herself. The cold steel of the knife’s blade sent ice through her when he held it to her skin. While she stared at the knife, Cross undressed, looming over her and ready to take her again. “Get off me, Cross. I won’t let you…” “You have no choice,” he growled as he punched her, knocking her out. He dragged her body across the room and laughed when he saw her eyes still wide open. Cross raped her, satisfying himself with a woman who could not fight off his attack or react. No one knew this had been the only way he could ever take a woman and no one ever would. He stood up, picked up her limp body and dropped her onto the bed. Then he put his pants on and walked to the chair where a box waited. He took it to the foot of the bed, left the envelope for his captive and grabbed their clothes, plus her wedding set. He went to the door, entered the code to open it and reentered another. Riley Kincaid had been his once before and would be again. **** Mark felt the blade at his throat and prayed the lieutenant would use it. Something seemed different though. He heard a voice. “Señor Ramirez, su placer, por favor.” Mark tried to see but his vision had failed him, his eyes dry and swollen. What was happening? Why the new twist? Mark heard a woman’s voice yelling at him to stop. His heart slammed into his chest. Riley, no, not you, too! No, kill me now. She needs to be… 151

At Cross Ends “Watch!” Cross’ voice echoed in his prison. The word sent sharp pains through him. No, stop this! His head felt like it would explode. “Gracias, Señor.” “Reprieve, eh, Kincaid?” “Do it! Put it in a dead man if you have the guts.” **** Riley came to lying face down on a massive bed. Her clothes gone, she felt chilly, pulling a comforter over her. She had to pull on it because it seemed caught on something. Looking at the foot of the bed, she saw a box with an envelope addressed to her taped to it. She shook her head when she read the note. Kincaid suffers if you do not cooperate. Your clothes for this evening are in the box. She looked in the box and swore. In it, she found a sheer black gown reminiscent of the costumes Greek goddesses were supposed to have worn. At least, it wasn’t white. Pulling the gown out, she saw nothing else. She went to shower, needing to get Cross’ stench off her body. It made her feel degraded and humiliated and she knew Cross realized it. Somehow, she’d kill him for what he had done to her, Mark and her family. When she finished showering, she took another because she still felt his touch. After toweling off, she crossed the room to the bed, picking up the dress. She saw exactly what this would lead to but Cross had given her no choice. Where the hell is the cavalry? Slipping into the dress, she let it fall down the length of her body. Low-cut in the front, the point of the neckline’s V went below her waist, the same in the back. It had no side seams though rhinestone straps held the front and back together, leaving her sides open to the air and access if Cross tried something Riley knew would piss Mark off. 152

At Cross Ends She heard a pop behind her and turned, the television automatically coming on. This time, she saw her husband, the film live as it happened. Cross made sure she witnessed what he did to Mark just to prove he had total control. “You bastard!” she swore under her breath. She forced herself to keep watching while wondering how bad his condition had deteriorated. If he survived, recovery would be long and painful. Will we make it? What about Lacey? Will the wonderful man I married and spent over a year searching for still be in love with me? What if Cross has succeeded in actually breaking him? What if… The door opened before Cross entered the room and the television went off. She hated being alone with him, her fear strong inside her. She backed away from him when he came closer. “Doing that can be fatal,” he reminded her. “Look, make it easy. Kill us both now and get it over with.” “Not until I’ve had my fun.” He grabbed her upper arm and pulled her out of the room, then down the stone staircase. At the base of the staircase in the castle’s entry hall, he turned and went to a door that opened to another flight of steps. She found herself looking at the huge cellar of the castle, her stomach wanting to heave. She looked around and shivered, realizing he’d brought her to the castle’s dungeon. “Where is he?” she demanded. “Patience, Riley.” He pressed a button and the floor-to-ceiling drapes began to slide apart. She looked at the wall behind them realizing it was of glass. She saw a faint light, then her gaze found him. Mark Kincaid—broken, battered and bloodied—sat shackled to the outer wall of Cross’ castle in his private dungeon. She ran to the glass throwing herself at it. “Mark!” “He can’t see you. Mister Goren had it custom built from his own design. It’s our gift to the both of you.” 153

At Cross Ends She stared at Mark, his handsome face swollen and discolored. His muscular body gone, Kincaid had lost far too much weight. Scars showed from the constant abuse and she caught her breath when she looked at his wrists, knowing he had begun to try to kill himself. She turned, lunging at Cross. He caught her with a backhanded slap, knocking her to the floor. “You just sealed it for the both of you.” **** Two of Cross’ guards picked her up and took her to the center of the room. Two stone pillars measuring at least four foot in diameter supported the floor above them. Another pair stood on the other side of the glass wall where Mark had been imprisoned. While they held her, Cross took leather wristlets and anklets, putting them on her. She noticed all four had O-rings on them and shivered. Once secure, he chained first one wrist, then the other, followed by her feet, Riley unable to go anywhere. One of the guards handed him a leather belt with O-rings on either side, Cross snapping chains in place. Riley stood with her arms out and shackled to the pillars, her waist as well and her feet chained to the floor. What the hell does he have in mind? “I wanted to fuck you one last time. I wanted to rip that gown off you and take you in front of him but instead, I came up with something better.” He held some sort of collar in his hand, Riley unable to figure out his plan. He set it up and slipped it over her head, setting it around her neck and just under her chin. She heard the snap of a hook and began to realize how she would die. “I would offer you a blindfold but I want you to see your helpless, worthless husband. I want you to see how much of a failure he is. I want you to die knowing it’s impossible for either you or him to do anything.” 154

At Cross Ends Her hands clenched in rage. Where the hell has the team gone, or did the tracking unit fail? She heard a click, then the whir of an overhead motor before the wall between them began to disappear. “Riley Kincaid, say hello to your husband.” Cross silently left the room, his guards at his heels. “Mark!” she screamed. “Riley,” he tried to say. “Mark, I’m sorry it took so long to find you.” “Riley, don’t. It’s too late for me.” “No, it’s not!” “You don’t understand. I’m not the man you married. I’m not even a man.” “Don’t say that! My God, I love you.” “You love a dead man.” “Then I’d rather be dead with you than alive without you.” “How touching,” Cross’ voice boomed from a speaker somewhere between them. “Go to hell, Cross!” she screamed. “Riley, you have to save yourself.” “I have to try to help you.” “Too late.” “Exactly what I told her, Kincaid.” They heard his laugh, chills shooting through them both. They both knew they could do nothing, Cross had been right about that. “Cross, I swear I will kill you one day.” “No, Kincaid, you won’t. You see, I have a business meeting in Cairo. My men are going with me. That leaves the both of you here with no food or water. All you’ll have is the sight of the other one dying. Good-bye to you both.” Riley felt a jerk as the lead from her noose/collar tightened. She gasped when she realized what had happened. In the distance, they heard his maniacal laughter. **** 155

At Cross Ends “Riley, I can’t see what’s going on.” “Mark, there’s a noose around my neck. He’s hanging me the slow, drawn-out way.” “Can you move at all?” “No. Mark, how bad are you hurt?” “Good candidate for the bionic man,” he said, his voice weak and fading. “Mark, I love you.” “I love you, too. I’m sorry.” She coughed, the noose tighter. She clenched her hands, her nails digging into her palms. “Rad?” “Mark, I can’t breathe.” “Riley, no. Don’t leave me.” “I’ll always be with you. I love you,” she croaked, the leather cutting into her skin. Riley passed out and Mark used his remaining strength to call her name. “Rad, I love you.”

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Chapter 16 The door to the basement flew into the room where Mark and Riley had been left to die. One of the team’s sharpshooters fired a shot at the piece of leather leading from the collar at her neck to the chain slowly pulling it. While two of the team members freed Riley, three other members went to release Kincaid from his prison for the last twelve months. “No, go away!” he screamed, delirious. “Kincaid, it’s me—Colonel Dean Chandler. We’ve come to get you and your wife out of here.” “He hung her.” “We got here in time. My guys are bringing her around now.” “Where’s Cross?” “He was here?” Chandler asked. While he talked to Mark, he unlocked the jewelry Mark had worn for a year. “Who do you think pushed the buttons?” “Damn it! We have the place surrounded.” He got on his radio and ordered his men to search the castle. They heard Riley cough once she began to revive. Mark tried but couldn’t move to go to her, his legs unable to support him, his body devastatingly weak. “Riley?” He tried to get her to look at him, but his voice cracked and her name came out in a whisper instead. “Mark?” She went to move, feeling lightheaded. “Over here,” he replied weakly. “Are we alive?” 157

At Cross Ends “Barely.” She had the lieutenant help her to her husband’s side. She threw her arms around him, half-hugging, half-protecting him. Tears streamed from her eyes, stinging his skin where they fell. Mark didn’t care. Riley held him, the heat between them still blazing. “Riley…” “Mark…” “Rad, I love you,” he said right before he passed out. “What’s wrong? What’s happening? Mark, don’t die on me!” “Ma’am, he’s unconscious. He passed out.” “He needs help.” “And we’ll get it for you both, I swear. Medic, take a look at Mrs. Kincaid’s neck, please. It needs treatment.” “Yes, sir,” the medic replied. He had just started dabbing the leather burn with a salve when they heard the worst news possible. Cross had the place rigged to self-destruct. They had to evacuate— stat! **** Chandler had his men search the fortress for the missing quarry—Cross and Goren. The place had been sealed but somehow, they still slipped through when they fled. While going room to room, Captain Damian Evans searched the library. While not finding anything telling him where the two fugitives headed off to, he found Riley’s wedding band and amethyst engagement ring, her clothes, along with Mark’s job shirt, wallet, watch and West Point ring Class of ’86. Evans had heard Kincaid held the rank of colonel when he left the service for his present job but his information had only been hearsay. Kincaid’s identity had been classified with only a dozen people knowing his background. Finding this told him a great deal about one of covert’s mysterious legends. 158

At Cross Ends Bundling the Kincaids’ personal possessions up in Riley’s jacket, he put it in his backpack, made a quick resurvey of the room and left. “D-One to all units, evacuate immediately. I repeat—evacuate immediately.” Evans left, joining the others outside. Shouldering his rifle, he helped place the makeshift stretcher carrying Mark Kincaid onto another one, then into a waiting helicopter. After that, he assisted the man’s wife, clad in a sexy black gown and wearing one of the other’s hooded parkas, into the aircraft, amazed at her beauty. Kincaid had a lot to live for. The members of the elite Delta Force extracted the Kincaids from Cross’ castle/fortress overlooking Lake Geneva. Moments after they had flown to safety, an explosion ripped through it, leveling the entire structure, plus taking any clues to Cross’ destination with it. **** Riley had been placed on a gurney at a private and elite clinic on the north side of Geneva. Colonel Chandler had carried her from the helicopter, Riley clinging to him. She shivered from the breeze blowing through the valley. While she lay on the examining table in a trauma room, she shook. She hadn’t stopped shaking since she saw Mark up close. She had her husband back but he had been apprehensive about the prospect of being rescued. Chandler had been patient with him, assuring Mark he would indeed be leaving this prison and that his wife hadn’t died by hanging. She stared out the window of the room they had taken her into, waiting to see a trauma team take Mark to the other room but she never saw them. The helicopter lifted off but no Mark. “Mark!” No answer. “Mark!” 159

At Cross Ends A nurse ran in, assuring her everything was all right. “Where’s my husband?” she pleaded, grabbing the nurse’s arm. “Je ne…” she stuttered in French, Riley’s heart sinking. “Riley, they took him straight to surgery. They want to begin correcting some of the damage done. It’s all right.” “Colonel, I need to be with him. He’s so…” “Let them do their jobs. He’s been through this before and came out stronger.” “You’ve known him for a while?” “We’ve worked together over the years. I led the team that got him out of that hellhole in Central America.” “Thank you.” “For what?” “Being his friend—being mine. I appreciate everything.” “My pleasure. I took the liberty of getting you some clothes for the trip home. You kind of didn’t give us a chance to get you a ready bag.” “It happened quicker than I thought it would. I’m lucky we took the other precautions.” “Ma’am?” “We knew he’d try to rape me again. We took steps to make sure I wouldn’t get pregnant. I went through that once before, never again.” “It’s not permanent, I hope—if you don’t mind my asking,” he said, genuinely curious. “No, thank God. I want my daughter to have a sister or brother.” “Good for you,” he complimented her, then turned to leave. “Colonel?” “I’ll be right outside.” “Thanks.” 160

At Cross Ends A woman entered the room, introducing herself as Doctor Brooksley. She examined Riley. “Relax, Mrs. Kincaid, I’m United States Navy. We have a small, hand-picked group who are constantly on call for high-level assignments like this. I’ve treated your husband once before. You’re in good hands here.” “What’s here?” “A private clinic used by elite teams and covert operatives. Because of the Swiss neutrality, the clinic caters to all countries and all have promised not to break the peace it provides. It’s a sort of sanctuary for the Untied States, Britain, Israel, Russia—to name a few.” “I see.” “They’re performing emergency surgery on your husband now. You’ll both be stabilized, then flown back to the States. Now, about you…” “I have a favor to ask.” Riley explained about the procedure she’d undergone to keep Cross from getting her pregnant. “Can you remove it?” “Sure thing—small task. Your neck worries me more though.” She looked at where the leather collar had placed a line around Riley’s throat. She noticed the burning and a few open areas where it appeared leather fibers had embedded themselves. She cleaned Riley’s neck, then placed treated gauze strips over the mark the leather had left. She then wrapped Riley’s neck with more gauze to hold everything in place. “Now for the other one.” When she finished, Riley had been treated and felt she’d been made normal again. Covert operations might be Mark’s cup of tea but it had been damned uncomfortable for her, though worth it. Brooksley brought her some tablets and water, immediately aware of Riley’s hesitance. 161

At Cross Ends “These are two light sedatives. You need to sleep while your husband is being taken care of. It’s going to be a while. Trust me, these are all right. I know your history.” “Thank you,” Riley said as she took them. A few minutes later, the doctor tucked her in and left Riley to nap. Sleep came fast and Riley went with it into a deep, much-needed rest. **** Mark had accepted the fact he wouldn’t see his wife again months before. Now Cross had her here in the same godforsaken prison he’d been held in for… He couldn’t remember and had no idea where he’d been held. How long have I spent in the dark and away from the outside world? It had been some time since he’d heard her voice echoing in his silent tomb. Though he had heard her fear, the sound of it had been music to his ears, a bright spot in his soon-to-be-ended life. He concentrated on her to ignore the knife cutting his chest. If he intended to survive this, he’d have to focus on her. It’s the only way. Mark heard something unfamiliar—the strange humming sound of a motor. After a jerk, the wall in front of him began to move to the side, disappearing into the darkness. The light behind it blinded him. He closed his eyes and reopened them slowly to see his wife chained between two pillars. His heart slammed into his chest. “Riley?” he barely whispered. “Mark!” he heard her scream. Cross left them alone to spend their final moments together. Mark apologized to her and told her he loved her. He had feared she would not want him but she did. He told her things he didn’t realize he’d said or thought. Kincaid’s mind had never been more confused than it felt now. He heard another hum and barely saw a chain attached to a leather lead around her neck. “Riley?” 162

At Cross Ends “Mark, he’s hanging me.” “Rad?” “I can’t breathe,” she told him, croaking out her words while the rigging slowly strangled the life out of her. He closed his eyes, unable to watch her die. He hated himself for his cowardice but he loved her too much to want to see her hang. A tear stung his eye when it pushed its way down his face, the sound of her choking exploding in his mind. “Riley, I’m…” The thick door to their tomb crashed into the room. He heard the blast of a gun, then multiple sets of footsteps. Has Cross returned to deal with us for some reason? Can’t he let us die in peace? He felt a strange hand touch him, his skin turning to ice. “No, get away from me.” “Mark, it’s Colonel Dean Chandler. You’re all right,” the colonel tried to assure him. Mark relaxed, then told him to help Riley. Again, Chandler tried to reassure him. Mark remembered him from several assignments when he had been assigned members of the elite Delta Force. Chandler had been the one who got him out of Nicaragua. He’s a friend, or is this a trick? “Chandler?” he said slowly. “Mark, I swear it. I wouldn’t lie. We’re getting you and your beautiful wife out of here.” “Riley?” “She’s passed out but alive. Do you remember my sniper/weapons specialist Evans? He shot the leather at your wife’s neck and stopped her from hanging. Look, we’ve got to get you both out of here. Can you walk?” “I don’t think so. They might be broken. Are you sure she’s…” “Yes, I am sure.” Two of his men brought in a foldable stretcher used only in extreme emergency situations due to being unable to be of any sup163

At Cross Ends port if the patient had spinal injuries or the like. Right now, they wanted to get him out of the castle and to the helicopter. Three of them carefully lifted Kincaid onto it, picked it up and carried him out to the waiting aircraft where medics immediately replaced him on a flight stretcher. Chandler remained back to carry Riley out. The building had to be evacuated after one of his men found it had been laced with explosives. Once the helicopter lifted off and flew to the clinic north of Geneva, the castle exploded, leveling it completely. The colonel breathed a sigh of relief. **** A short while later, Mark partially came to. He opened his eyes a bit, enough to see bright lights overhead and another medical team. He felt the chilliness of the operating room. Hell, I’ve been in enough of them. “My wife…” “She’s in trauma. You were brought straight up here.” “How long have I…” “About two hours,” a nurse said. “So far, we’ve splinted both legs, your arms and we’ve wrapped your rib cage to heal the fractures. You’re fortunate— your spine and neck are still in one piece. We’re stabilizing you the best we can. I want both of you to remain here until I feel you’re ready to go home to the States and Bethesda,” the doctor explained. “How’s my wife?” “A little bruised and her neck’s got an ugly gash to it where the leather cut into her. Other than that, she’s fine.” “I want to see her.” “Soon, she’s asleep right now. I’ll bring her to you as soon as she’s up.” “Doc?” “Mark?” 164

At Cross Ends “Will I walk again?” “If you get therapy and don’t feel sorry for yourself, most definitely.” “Tell me what to do.” Mark listened—he would walk again. He had his reasons, the main one being his wife. She’d be mad if he screwed this up. He owed her that and more. “Mark, I’m going to give you a sedative. Get some sleep and I’ll make sure you see each other.” “Thanks, Doc.”

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Chapter 17 Both Kincaids took strong sedatives which finally wore off the next morning. Riley woke to find she had been put in a private room, her windows facing the mountains. She took a quick survey of things and found she had been changed into a hospital gown—a huge relief. The black gown was definitely not me. She snickered realizing she would have worn it without hesitation for her husband. She turned to her side and gazed out the huge windows. The mountains had a charm all their own. She had seen pictures, none of them coming close to the beauty she looked at firsthand. She wished she could be enjoying this with Mark but… “Madame Kincaid?” “Oui?” “Parlez-vous français?” “Non.” “I see. How are you this morning?” “I don’t know yet, Doctor…” “Doctor Renoir. I’ve been asked by Monsieur Blake to tend to both of you.” “Tom?” “We go back years, Madame. I’ve treated your husband before.” “How is he?” “Not good.” He ran down the list of Mark’s injuries, Riley paling. “Will he be all right?” 166

At Cross Ends “More than likely, I’d say. Most of his injuries I found to be minor, if you can believe it. Not being able to move, he actually healed properly. I found his extremities were not the point of harshest concentration.” “What do you mean?” “Most of his injuries had been abdominal and above. He’s a very lucky man, considering.” “What about the knife wound?” “I have concern about it because the blade evidently had been designed for damage instead of cutting clean. The slice is rough and the area is prone to infection.” Riley gasped. When will it be over? “I need to see him.” “I have him scheduled for a full-body MRI. It’ll take at least another hour.” “Do you have to put him in that…” “Why?” “He may become extremely agitated.” “I’ll make sure his mind is put at ease.” “Then?” “I’ll come collect you and take you to him.” “Thank you, Doctor.” Please, God, let him be all right. **** In the meantime, Mark slept. He had been watched overnight by a hand-picked vigilant staff after they moved him from surgery to recovery, then to a private room. In the morning, they took him to have a full body scan performed. The team placed him on a cold table followed by headsets over his ears. Music would help drown out the noise of the diagnostic machine. “Mister Kincaid?” an intern asked. “Yes?” he answered. 167

At Cross Ends “We’re running a series of tests on your body to find the extent of damage done.” “Riley?” “She’s fine and waiting to see you,” he assured Mark while he and a nurse slid the table with Mark on it into the tube. “I can’t—get me out…” “Mark?” “Don’t close me in!” “Mark, it’ll take a few minutes, then it will be over. Do you think you can lie perfectly still?” “I don’t know. I need my wife.” “Stop arguing and you’ll be finished. I swear you won’t be hurt.” “I don’t like being…” “I know. Relax, listen to the music and don’t move, or it will make this run longer. Understand?” “I think so.” “Good. If you want, I can give you something to put you out.” “Fine, I really don’t want to be in this thing.” “Nurse?” She handed him a syringe and he injected a mild but effective sedative into Kincaid’s arm. A few minutes later, Mark lapsed off. Quickly, they slid their patient into the machine and started the battery of tests ordered by Renoir. Riley Kincaid had been right about his reaction. **** Riley stood at the window enjoying the breathtaking view but only one thing in her life mattered. She felt edgy and told herself everything would be all right. She turned when she heard footsteps enter the room. “Ready?” “As I’ll ever be. How did he do?” 168

At Cross Ends “You were right about him panicking. With his approval, he took a mild sedative to put him out so the MRI could be performed. I’ve added my notes to his file.” “Do you have any results yet?” “Not yet.” She sighed. They needed to know if Cross’ imprisonment had done anything needing to be taken care of right away. Renoir offered his arm to her, Riley taking it. She felt a little shaky but her problems had to be set aside. Mark had gone through hell and needed more help than she felt she did. “Here we are. I’ll leave you both alone.” “Merci,” she said. He gave her a quick bow before he left her. Riley stood in the room frozen and apprehensive of how he would react to her and his situation. She knew the whole ordeal hadn’t been easy and she feared not being able to help him. What she truly dreaded was if he pushed her away. Will I be able to handle his rejection? She slowly crossed the room to his bedside, one step at a time. She caught her breath looking at him. His handsome face swollen, the bruising more evident, especially around his eyes. The eyelids keeping his gorgeous blue eyes safe had swollen shut from being hit but she had been told about them drying out, which concerned her more. His face had cuts on it and she noticed several cigarette burns on his chest and one below his left eye. She turned away to take a deep breath. What else has he suffered? She reached for his hand but stopped, her fingers hovering over his. Unable to help herself, she let her tears flow. “My God, what did they do to you?” “I was kicked, beaten, stabbed, and given drugs. Nine times out of ten, I went without food or water. Some of his men used me as an ashtray…” “Baby, I…” 169

At Cross Ends “I survived because of you. I thought of you and prayed you would send help. Why did you wait so damned long? Why didn’t you go to deWalt? He would have…” “…Left you to die. I called that weasel every day. He never returned my calls until I left him a message he couldn’t refuse or ignore. That happened two weeks ago. Baby, your good friend was one of Cross’ plants. He never intended on getting you out of there.” “Then who?” “I went to the top.” “I’m here because of him?” “Yes, I went to Uncle George and we set the wheels in motion. deWalt was arrested. I met your stepbrother—nice guy…” “Tom told you?” “Everything. I feel privileged he trusted me enough to tell me. I had some things to take care of before we went with the plan I had.” “Which was?” “I became very obvious. We knew Cross would show himself as soon as I confirmed I was alive. His man met me for a supposed business meeting and I wound up here.” “Did he hurt you?” “The hanging did.” “Before that—did Cross try…” “That was one of the things I had to take care of. Harmon and Miranda agreed I had a good idea so Miranda and a gynecologist at Bethesda inserted a diaphragm so if the prick did try it, he wouldn’t get me pregnant.” “Did he…” “More than likely. He served up a knock-out punch that put me out for a while. I woke up sore and…” “Are you all right?” 170

At Cross Ends “I’m fine. It’s you I’m worried about. You’re so fragile right now. I’m afraid of hurting you more.” “My hand is all right,” he assured her while painfully lifting his arm. Riley quickly took his hand, holding it to her face, ashamed of her hesitation. I’ve made him feel like shit! His fingers curled around her hand, the heat that had been a part of them still evident. Mark moved his head to look at her. “I love you, Rad. You saved my life.” “I had to. If I had known earlier…” “Don’t. It’s over now.” “Is it? I know Cross escaped.” “I didn’t want you to know…” “Mark, I’d rather not be kept in the dark. We have Lacey’s safety to think of.” “Lacey?” “Our daughter.” “Daughter?” “I came back to the house to tell you the good news. Instead, I found Maggie on your desk with a knife pinning a note to her shoulder. Lacey’s three months old now and reminds me of you.” “I have a daughter?” he said slowly, having a hard time accepting this. “I had hoped for but…” “She’s beautiful, Mark.” “Where is she?” “With Cordelia at the Executive Mansion.” “You’ve got to be kidding me.” “Uncle George’s idea.” “Must be nice,” he said, a hint of a grin showing. “Mark, I love you and I would do it again if I had to.” “You shouldn’t have been brought into this.” “I was already in it. He murdered my parents after he abducted you. deWalt told me they had died but wouldn’t tell me anymore, except a quick hint of C4 under the frame of the car.” 171

At Cross Ends “Riley, I’m so sorry. I should have been…” “It was all part of his plan. Please, stop blaming yourself.” “I will until I find out if I still have a wife and a family. Do I?” “Damn straight, Kincaid,” she told him through tears. “I really need something right now.” “What? A painkiller?” “No, Rad, I want you. I want to kiss you. I need to feel you’re with me…” “I am, baby,” she said, bending over her husband to kiss him. He groaned feeling the heat between them grow. He prayed it could always be as hot as or hotter than a multi-alarm fire. “God, I’ve missed you,” he told her. “I missed you, too,” she told him as she cried. Her tears fell to his face. He felt a stinging sensation, his skin still sensitive to any touch but he didn’t complain. He wanted her after a year away from her and he could tell she felt the same emotions. “Marry me again?” “Anytime, anywhere! Give me another child followed by two or three others. I want you, baby.” “Thank God. I dreaded never seeing you again. Promise me we’ll never be separated again.” “What about my uncle’s commands?” “We’ll work around it.” She put her fingertips on his face, their touch hitting him like a freight train. As she bent to kiss him, his other hand came up behind her neck and pressed her to him, his fingers entwined in her hair. “Still sweeter than wine.” “Mark, I…” “I missed you so damned much. They caught me off-guard at the florist. I’d just gotten you roses because I knew you’d be coming home with good news.” “Baby, you don’t have to…” 172

At Cross Ends “They played on my instincts because someone—a boy, if I remember right—told me about a victim down in the woods. When I realized what was going on, it was too late. My last thoughts were of you. God, Riley, I’m so sorry,” he whispered in her ear as he broke down and wept. Riley held him knowing she’d be the only one he’d ever let see this side of him. They heard a knock on the door and she asked whoever to come back in a little while. “Thank you.” “For what, my love?” “Being my wife.”

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Chapter 18 Mark spent the next several days regaining the use of his body. It had been easier than expected because his time in captivity and the way he’d been held worked for him, instead of against him. He wanted to go outside. Riley had gotten them some clothes one day when he had therapy and she’d gone shopping. Wearing borrowed clothes bothered her. She’d decided on a Nordicdesigned blue sweater over jeans and hiking boots. He wore jeans, a black plaid shirt and a pair of Nikes. She handed him a parka with a fur-edging around the hood, which he carefully slid on. “Mark?” “The shoulders are stiff. I guess I can tell weather now.” “Good, then we don’t need the Weather Channel anymore.” Riley put on a suede vest with a sherpa lining. She grabbed sunglasses, handing him a pair. “How are your eyes?” “Still sensitive. I hope I didn’t lose my night vision. I’ve always relied on it.” “Ready?” “When you are.” They walked out of the clinic. Mark inhaled deeply, taking in the fresh mountain air which felt like a gift from heaven. They went out the gates, the small village in front of them. Riley could see some improvement already. He relaxed some and she noticed less tension. “Are you all right?” 174

At Cross Ends “I feel wobbly.” “Do you want to go back in?” “No, I like the open space. I never want to be…” “You have the farm…” “Yeah, but I doubt I’ll be able to fight fires. I don’t know about packing up again. If I can’t handle a mask, then…” “Be a driver or whatever they call it.” Mark thought about what she suggested. He decided to see when he got home if he could go back one way or another. Leave it to Riley to find the answer. They walked to a small park and sat on a bench. Riley could see Mark was in pain. She raised her arm, signaling a horse-drawn sleigh. After it pulled up to them, they got in and snuggled under a thick wool blanket. The sleigh took off and they sat back, taking in the fresh air and the scenery. Mark lost himself, thinking about his good fortune. Riley had been the best thing to ever happen to him. He had become so rapt in his thoughts, she startled him when she slid her hand between his jacket and jeans. He looked at her and grinned. “What’s this all about?” “I have charge of this afternoon’s therapy session.” “And?” “You’ll see soon and I guarantee I’m going to put you through the ringer.” The sleigh sped over the snow-covered road. He pulled her closer, happy she loved him. He prayed all this had not come from a sense of duty. Damn it, quit being so fucking insecure. The woman damned near died for me. “What’s wrong?” she asked, sensing his change in moods. “I’ve never known what it was like to be insecure about anything in my life. My work, my life, you… But now, I don’t know.” “Baby, I love you. I swore I’d always be there for you, no matter what. My God, Mark…” 175

At Cross Ends “I’m sorry. Maybe Cross broke me. I don’t know what to think. Maybe we should…” “No, you need to get out. I want to be with my husband without the damned nurses coming into the room, the doctors or anyone else. I want you, Mark—no one else.” She kissed him while she slid the zipper to his jeans down, her hand seeking his swollen cock. She teased him before her head disappeared under the blanket. His breath caught the minute he felt her lips brushing along its length. Sheer torture, he moved to give her more access. Riley took his cock deep in her throat, then moved up and down on it, driving him crazy. “Riley,” he gasped, his hand going to the back of her head. He pressed her closer to him, groaning when he felt her lips touching his balls. He wanted to fuck her right now but she had him exactly where she wanted him, Mark helpless to do anything. This is a helplessness I can handle. “Riley, my God,” he groaned, his release exploding into her throat. She kept at it, wanting it all. When he felt the last throb of his seed bursting into her, he pressed her head tight against him and groaned. When she reappeared, he grabbed her and pulled her into a kiss. “You’re perfection, Rad.” “Only for you.” They came to a stop in front of a small chalet. The man who had taken them on their sleigh ride hopped down and helped them out of the sleigh. Riley thanked him. “My dear Mark Kincaid, welcome to our little piece of Switzerland, where it will be you and me only for the next few hours or days.” Mark stood and looked at the house. It reminded him of a ski lodge in Vermont. He saw the smoke from the chimney and knew his wife had very definite plans. 176

At Cross Ends They walked to the door. Mark grabbed her hand and pulled her close. He put his hand to the side of her face, gazing into her eyes. “I need to say something,” he said. His eyes began to wander, Mark feeling he could quickly lose his nerve. He felt her support just from the touch of her hand on his. He swallowed hard, his nerves shot. “I think I know what you have planned and I truly appreciate it but I have no idea what happened to me. I’m scared, Rad.” “I’ve been there. I feared I couldn’t satisfy you or be satisfied after Cross’ abuse. Baby, we’ll make it through this—I swear to you we will.” “But if…” “Mark, I love you, no matter what. I’m the only one who truly knows what you went through.” “God, I love you,” he said, holding her tight. He could smell the scent of lavender she used in her bath and the same in her hair when he buried his face in it. Memories of times before flooded back. “Shall we, my loving husband?” she coaxed when he hesitated a little. “It’s all right, honestly. It’s just you and me and a warm, cozy fire.” She flashed a smile at him that warmed his heart. Maybe it will be all right… **** Riley saw her husband’s emotional turmoil. She hated he had to go through this. God, I wish Cross had died. The man had fled alive and well while her husband suffered. They entered the house and she felt the warmth of the fire. They stood in the entry and looked into a sunken living room. To the side, the kitchen and dining area looked inviting. The loft overlooked the living room and the mountainous view the wall of glass 177

At Cross Ends let them see. Riley had liked the layout, open yet secluded—the reason she had leased it for them. She watched her husband look around. It seemed as if he had no idea what to do. Cross had damaged him more than anyone knew. I swear I’ll kill the bastard for what he’s done. Riley waited, telling herself it would all have to be on his terms. She vowed to give him that and anything else he needed to heal. Mark sat down on a section of the couch, easily taking the two steps from the entry down into the pit. He seemed a little better after their walk from the clinic and the sleigh ride. He looked around as if trying to plan a way out. The tension could have been cut with a knife but Riley put that thought aside. “Would you like anything?” she asked. “Yeah, Rad, I do. Come here.” Riley went to him, taking his outstretched hand. He pulled her to him and down on his lap, her knees on either side of his hips. He gazed at her while both of his calloused hands slid under her sweater. Though rough to the touch, his hands sent a tingling sensation through her. Slowly, he explored her back with his fingertips. “You aren’t wearing anything.” “Only for you.” He gazed at his wife, gingerly removing her sweater. He groaned at the sight of her gorgeously round breasts, more so since their daughter’s birth. Her nipples hard, they waited for his attention. He pulled her down to him, his mouth latching onto her right breast. The feel of him suckling her sent more shocks through her hungry body. “Oh!” “Are you all right?”

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At Cross Ends “Of course, it’s definitely better having you do that than our daughter. She tends to bite down with her little jaws. She’s got a strong bite.” “You mean like this?” he asked, taking her nipple between his teeth before letting his tongue play with it. “You’re… Oh… Oh…” she moaned. He continued this while his hand did the same to her left breast. She could feel her body’s wet reaction but she didn’t care about her clothes, even if it showed. Mark had her under his power and he could make her do anything. He switched sides, Riley in heaven. “Your tits are even more gorgeous than I remember,” he said, laving her nipple. As he went on making love to his wife, Riley felt him relax, a good sign. She held onto him as he excited her more. She felt the start of a climax coming over her like never before and he’d only made love to her breasts. She began to feel an aching need between her legs and prayed he’d take her and quick but he didn’t. He continued in a way causing her to want more of him. “Mark, please…” “Please, what, Rad?” “Give us another child.” “It’s too…” “I don’t… Oh… Oh, Mark!” While he concentrated on her nipples, she undid her jeans, needing to be free of the constraints they imposed on her body. Somehow, without Mark stopping, she found a way to slide them off. She went after him, her body hungrily craving more. Trying to get his shirt off, he continued to nip and suckle. He switched sides once more and she groaned. All she wanted lay within him and his love for her. Making sure she wouldn’t pull away from his hot mouth, she undressed him, groaning when she saw his reaction to her. “You are a unique beauty, even more so now.” “You are my gorgeous knight.” 179

At Cross Ends He slid his free hand between her legs and found her ready. He teased her clit driving her insane. He moved his lips to hers while thrusting deep within her. She smiled when she felt her body clench around his cock then hearing his groan. Starting slowly, his thrusts sped up. She held him while he took her, driving her over the edge. She felt like she was going for eight seconds on a bull, holding on for the ride of her life. He exploded into her, filling her to overflowing but not stopping his hungry assault on her senses. She screamed his name, begging for more. “Are you sure, Rad?” “God, yes!” “You’re talking to a deprived man. I had a year without you.” “I was deprived, too. Please…” she begged him. She held onto him while he lavished kisses over her body. They became one, just as they had the night they had conceived Lacey. Mark knew they were in for hours of this and he wanted to please her. He pulled her down to him, rolling her to her back. He rose above her, raising her hips, then driving his hungry cock into her. Pounding her pussy, he watched her breasts moving in time. He couldn’t believe they were even more beautiful after the baby but they were. He pulled her hips tight against him making sure she couldn’t move, filling her with his seed. “Mark!” she cried. She couldn’t hear, her body shaking. She felt like she’d sat back as a spectator, barely hearing anything she or Mark said. Mark held her breasts in his hands, pulling her up to him. He kissed her while she gasped for air, the last orgasm the best she’d ever had. “Was it as good as before?” he cautiously asked. “No, you’re better. Is this what a year without does to a man?”

180

At Cross Ends “I don’t know about any other man but I missed you. I wanted you for twelve long months, envisioning your body while I fucked you in my mind. You kept me alive, Riley.” “When I saw Maggie sprawled on your desk, I knew Cross had you. I tried to get deWalt to do something because I trusted him as a friend of yours. If I had known, I would have gone to my uncle sooner. Can you ever forgive me?” “You came out of my dreams and saved me. You don’t need to be forgiven. Will you ever forgive me?” “For what?” “Letting him take me. Not protecting you. Not being with you when you carried and gave birth to our daughter. I missed too damned much I should have been with you for.” “Mark?” “What?” “Take me to bed and fuck me. Give me another baby.” “Wow.” “I told you therapy would be intense.” Mark laughed, relief and his life overtaking him. **** Mark and Riley Kincaid spent the entire time at the chalet wearing nothing and loving each other. She cooked them dinner and while she did, Mark held her while playing with her. At one point, he sat her on the counter and tasted her overflowing emotions. She gasped, feeling his tongue inside her tongue fucking her. She cried out as he delved deeper into her body, teasing and probing. His hands held her ass while he took her, afraid he wouldn’t get enough. Riley cried out his name again, sheer delight in her voice. He pulled her from the counter, sat down on a bar chair and lowered her welcoming body on him. “This is the way to cook!” she cried out as they climaxed. She wrapped her body around him and cried. 181

At Cross Ends “What’s wrong?” he asked, holding her. “I’m just so damned happy. I thought you were lost to me forever.” “Never, Riley Kincaid, you own my heart and soul. I want you and only you to carry our children and raise them. No matter what happens, you are mine and I am yours. Remember that always. I will always come back to you—always.” “But…” “Have my child, Riley.” “Yes! Yes!” she cried out. He filled her once more with everything in him. He felt grateful for this time together because he’d be gone as soon as he discovered where Cross was hiding. Mark could tell she could feel herself obeying her body’s orders. “Look at me, Riley.” She did and their eyes locked. She stared into his, hypnotized by her husband. “Always look at me when we go over the edge. If I die, this is how I want to remember you and us. Promise me…” “I promise, I swear, I’ll do anything for you!” She tried to scream but his lips covered hers and she cried. Please, my Rad, always love me and don’t ever doubt my love for you—ever! **** They left several days later. From the chalet, they headed to the clinic, where both had check-ups, got clean clothes and ate dinner before Renoir told them their plans for leaving this beautiful piece of paradise. “You’ll be flying back to the States in the morning,” Doctor Renoir told them. “We’re sending you home on a commercial jetliner and you’ll be landing at Dulles. Any questions?” They shook their heads. 182

At Cross Ends The flight to the United States had been nonturbulent and very uneventful, Mark relieved. Military hops could be jarring, to say the least. Riley sat by the window, her hand on her stomach. Mark gazed at her and smiled. Nine months down the road, their daughter would welcome her brother or sister. Kincaid prayed he’d be able to take care of Cross, one way or another, then see his child born. What he’d been planning to do would ensure his family’s survival. **** As soon as their flight landed at Dulles International, the Kincaids were immediately whisked to Bethesda. After their checkups, Harmon Spencer gave out orders. He told Riley she could leave but Mark would have to remain at the medical center for a few more days, possibly a week. They had to put him through a battery of tests to make sure exactly where they stood—physically and emotionally. They accepted this, though neither one felt happy about the separation. “When would you like to meet your daughter?” “I’d love to right now but do you really want to bring our little girl into the hospital?” “Good point,” she agreed. He would meet Lacey Kincaid as soon as he got out of the hospital. Riley used the time to get the farm ready for Mark’s homecoming. She had the hands stock food, a maid clean the house and she made sure Maggie would be settled back in after her presidential visit. They had returned on a Monday and by Thursday, she felt satisfied everything had been taken care of. Cordelia, who she stole from the White House, cared for Lacey. Riley moved her into the guestroom across the hall from the nursery. Riley went into the hospital early Thursday morning. She wanted to set up an appointment with Miranda because she didn’t 183

At Cross Ends want to wait any longer than she had to in order to find out if she had gotten pregnant. Finished there, she went upstairs to Mark’s room. A nurse was busy putting clean sheets on the bed. “Excuse me, do you know where Mark Kincaid is?” “No, ma’am. I just know they wanted me to get the room ready for the next…” “No, my husband has been in this room for almost a week. He’s supposed to be here until tomorrow.” “I wouldn’t know, ma’am.” “Where’s Doctor Spencer or Lieutenant Commander Baldwin?” “On rounds, I think.” Riley left the room to find either Spencer or Baldwin. She didn’t like not being informed about her husband’s whereabouts when they had promised to meet in his room. She caught up with Baldwin in the hallway. “Commander, where’s my husband?” “Your guess is as good as mine. Wherever he is, he left this for you,” he said, handing her an envelope. “What’s this?” “This I found on his bed, Mark already gone.” “Didn’t anyone see him leave? Did anyone visit him? Call him…” “Calm down. Your husband is the best at what he does. If he wanted to leave without anyone seeing him, he would. You read this and I will go see what I can find out.” Returning to Mark’s room, Riley felt numb. Baldwin helped her to the bed, then left. He left strict orders she not be disturbed.

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Chapter 19 Riley looked at the handwriting. No doubt about it—Mark had written it. Why? Her hands shook as she slowly opened it and pulled out the letter. She wiped away tears while she attempted to read it. Rad, Before I go any further, I have one thing to say—I love you with my heart, my soul and my life. I love the daughter I have yet to meet since she was a gift you gave me which, until I met you, I never thought possible. For that, I thank you. I have to leave you. I’m unsure of myself. The only thing I am sure about is your love and your devotion. I am blind to everything else—my job, the fire service, all of it. I do not feel whole yet—maybe one day. We can’t have a life together as long as one threat hangs over us. I can’t live a life always wondering and not knowing, nor do I want to put you through it. Lacey needs a quiet, stable life—not one where her father is in a fight for his life in every way. I love you both but you’ll be better off without me. All my love— Mark P.S. The farm and all I own are yours. I have no need for possessions because none of them mean anything. You made my life better—both of you—but it’s been ruined and I can’t go on as I am now. 185

At Cross Ends Good-bye, my love, my Riley, my Rad. When she read the last words, she sobbed. What the hell happened since I left him the night before? She screamed but no one came, Riley left alone with her pain. She picked up the phone and made a call. “I need to see you. He’s gone.” **** After Riley had left for the night, Mark got comfortable. He watched some television, enjoying a show about Las Vegas forensics. CSI had a lot of things he dealt with, only they used fancy computers while he did a lot of his work in the field. A nurse brought in a small flower arrangement which had been left earlier. He took the card and read it. Enjoy your comfort. Riley and the kid are goners. I will come after you and we will finish Geneva. Make your peace. The card glared at him before he crumpled it up and threw it across the room. It landed by the cabinet where Riley had put some clothes and a duffel bag for him. God, Riley, will it ever end? Yes, it will and soon! He laid back and tried to figure out what to do. He didn’t want to start making phone calls in case they traced back to the people he’d contact. He didn’t trust Cross not to go after his stepbrother or Riley’s godfather—he’d already killed her parents, what was the Chief Executive but just another person who could hurt Riley if Cross killed him? Mark closed his eyes. He saw Riley as she had been in the dungeon, only her neck had been snapped, her life gone. He saw what Cross had done to her in the islands and bolted up. He knew if Cross got hold of her again, Riley wouldn’t be lucky enough to survive. He had the sick thought Lacey would be used in Cross’ plot against the both of them. Shit! 186

At Cross Ends Kincaid knew he had to find Cross and kill him and the bastard who acted as his right-hand man. If he didn’t, he and Riley had no hope. He took out a piece of paper and wrote his wife a letter telling her good-bye—the hardest thing he’d ever done. The love of his life would have no worries because he gave her all his worldly possessions. Lacey would grow up and have a decent life. At least they’d be alive. **** In the wee hours of the morning, Mark grabbed the set of scrubs he’d been left to wear instead of the lousy hospital gown. He grabbed the backpack with his clothes Riley had left earlier and the flowers, then crept down the empty hallway. He made it to the stairway, putting the flowers in a janitor’s cart before he ducked into the stair tower. He checked for any cameras, disabled one and changed clothes. He went to move and heard voices. Mark froze until he could be sure they wouldn’t come his way, then stuffed the scrubs in the backpack before continuing on his way. He deliberately avoided the cameras and made it to the parking garage. Mark considered stealing a car but it would lead back to him one way or another. He took a quick check of the backpack’s contents and fell in love with his wife all over again. He pulled out his wallet, his watch and West Point ring, plus his cell phone. He took a quick look and discovered she had grabbed the one billing back to one of his cover accounts in Baltimore. “How the hell did you know?” He shook his head—it had to be coincidental. He had several phones in his desk thanks to damage or loss, so… After he left Bethesda, he made a straight line to a place he kept in Baltimore. Nothing spectacular but it would do for a bit. He walked in and threw the backpack on the table. He then went to the bedroom closet, pushed some clothes aside and stared at a 187

At Cross Ends small safe. He opened it and took out money, credit cards and a passport issued to Mike Kauffman. Kauffman’s bio stated he had been born in Philadelphia, growing up on the city’s exclusive Main Line. He graduated from Yale with a degree in business, got a Master’s degree in finance, then created a consulting group (of one) that dealt with Fortune 500 corporations. He made a cool million in the first six months, then used the money to support his cover—one so solid, Justice couldn’t find him. Mark stepped back, looked at the Armanis and Versaces and grinned. Cross had met his match this time. The threat he received at the hospital had been the kick in the ass he needed. He wanted a life with his wife and their daughter, who he desperately wanted to meet. He wanted to be with Riley if she was pregnant, because something deep in his gut told him she’d be finding out soon the therapy session at the chalet had been a huge success. He thought back to their time together and grinned. A couple of days of uninhibited lovemaking—no, pure, passionate fucking. They took their clothes off once they got inside the chalet and didn’t dress again until they left to return to the clinic, then the States. His body reacted to the sight of her, beautiful and naked. He closed his eyes and reminded himself he had to do it this way. It’s the only way for us to have what we want. Mark looked into his wallet and saw something new tucked inside. He pulled out a photo of his wife and… He sat down, guilt-ridden. He should be in Virginia with them, not in a condo near the Inner Harbor under a new identity. Cross would pay for this. He looked at Riley and Lacey, then slid the photo back into the spot he’d found it in. “Rad, you saved me several times. You offered your life for mine. I can’t give you a life as long as Cross is alive.”

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At Cross Ends Turning on his computer, he signed onto the Internet and began his search. He started looking for Cross in Cairo and for any completed deals. He grinned finding the data he sought. “Well, you bastard—very interesting. I wonder what Marak will say.” Mark picked up the phone and called an Egyptian financier known by one name—no mister or first name. Marak dealt in high dollar deals that always garnered him one hell of a profit. “Is Marak in?” “Who may I say is calling?” a female assistant asked. “Mike Kauffman. I have extremely important information which is very time-sensitive.” “One moment, please.” Mark waited and listened to the transfers of the call over several lines. He drummed his fingers on the table waiting to get through Marak’s security. “Ah, Michael, how are you?” “Good, my friend. You?” “Good. Business is great.” “So I see. I need to ask you a question. Who did you just sign deals with?” “I made three very lucrative ones with an American. Why?” “His name?” “Mark Kincaid. Again, I ask why?” “You have been dealing with an imposter. Mark Kincaid has been in Switzerland, then DC over the past several weeks, not in Cairo.” “Who is this man?” Marak asked, the anger in his voice rising. “Kincaid is not a businessman. I am not at liberty to tell you his occupation but suffice it to say, I have solid proof of his whereabouts. In fact, he and I had lunch the other day at the same time you were meeting with him.” “Then who did I meet with?” 189

At Cross Ends “A guy named Graham Cross. Rumor has it he’s had people killed and his deals are on the illegal side. His associates are grounded in the hills of Nicaragua. Did you sign the papers?” “Yes, but…” “Then I’d break the deals citing false pretenses. My friend, you have been had.” Marak muttered something Mark quietly laughed at. “How can I thank you for this timely call?” “No worry. I’m glad I could help. You aren’t out too much, are you?” Marak told him and Mark rolled his eyes. Long ago, they decided the course of their relationship. Each had a cautious side and always took care in what they did or said where the other could be involved. It had been very profitable for both. “My sincere gratitude for your consideration in this matter.” “Anytime, my friend.” Mark hung up and entered another web address taking him to a Swiss bank. He typed in several codes and waited. He grinned— Marak hadn’t changed one bit. As always, Mark would find a bonus for his good will, this time very substantial. He watched his bank balance increase by five million dollars. Thank you, Marak… “You have mail,” the boring little voice announced. He opened the file seeing it came from Cairo. Reading it, he became very happy. From what Marak had been told, Cross was on his way to South Africa to meet with an English-type, then he would get together with several others. Marak also wrote that Cross had an estate either on the Ivory Coast or near Johannesburg. Word had it he intended to stay there a while. “What name did you find him under?” Mark sent the request and sat back to wait. While he did, he sent an e-mail to his bank officer. 190

At Cross Ends If anything happens to me, I want the passbook of my account given to Mrs. Riley Devane Kincaid and her children. Please confirm request. He sat back and waited. Your request has been confirmed. A second email came in. The name he uses is Mark Kincaid. My source tells me he’ll be there for at least the next year. Mark now knew where Cross had fled to, his plans to remain there for a while and who he posed as. Now all he had to do would be sit and wait for any deals to come through, then put a stop to them as he had with Marak. It would be very interesting. **** Riley felt numb. The letter had taken her by surprise. She did as Baldwin figured and sobbed. She heard a knock on the door and sat up, brushing her tears aside. She called to her visitor to come in. “Riley?” the voice said as the man peered in before entering. The man came to her and put his arms around her. “Tom, what the hell is going on? I left here last night and he was fine. I came in this morning and all I have of him is this.” She handed him the letter. “Damn it! He’s going after Cross.” “Why? I mean I know Cross got out of Geneva, but this?” Her brother-in-law read the letter again, this time reading between the lines. “You were threatened. I know Mark and he couldn’t live with himself if you and the baby were harmed.” “But he’s gone.” “Damned right, he’s gone—he’s gone under.” “What do you mean?” “He’s going after Cross.” “Can’t you stop him?” 191

At Cross Ends “I could if I knew where to begin. He’s got several covers created to be absolutely untouchable because of his position.” “So what you’re saying is I may never see him again?” “In a word—yes. He’s given you Kincaid Farms and everything that goes with it. It’s a kind of will operatives use in extreme cases. He’s not expecting to come back.” “Six months.” “What?” “Six months is all we had together, if we were lucky. My God, I just got him back after Cross…” “Riley?” “Call Miranda—hurry!” **** Hours later, Riley’s prayers had been answered. Miranda told Riley that her suspicions had been confirmed—she carried a little Kincaid. For the next several months, he’d be with her. She’d take extra care because she needed to deliver this child—no matter what. She remembered begging Mark for this and he’d given her what she had wanted. Always, he gave her what she wanted— except now. “Can I come in?” “Sure,” she answered. Tom Blake joined her. “How do you feel?” “Wonderful, uncle,” she answered. “You’re pregnant?” “Yep. It’s what I begged him for at the chalet in Switzerland. I’ll always have him with me between Lacey and this one.” “Congratulations. You’re a very lucky woman. Your godfather sends his best wishes. He’s sorry he can’t get away to come be with you.” “He’s got to be busy, considering the circumstances in the Middle East.” 192

At Cross Ends “Among other things. Riley, brace yourself.” “What ?” “After you were taken out of here by Miranda, I found this crumpled up in the corner.” “What is it?” she asked slowly. “What I thought—Cross threatened you and Lacey. He said it would finish Geneva. I know Mark and that’s what drove him to leave. He plans to get Cross before Cross gets his family. Riley, you may not understand but believe this—he left to protect you two the only way he knows how. The man loves you.” “I love him, too, and I’ll never stop. Why didn’t he tell me to my face instead of the letter?” “Time—he’s bought you time, as well as for himself and several others. As long as his target thinks he has the upper hand, Mark winds up a winner. It’s the only way he knows how to take care of this without getting you or the baby hurt.” “You mentioned others?” “Mark is looking out for me. Consider the ramifications if Cross found out about me. Then there’s the President…” “Cross would go that far?” “He’s out of control. Both of us are close to you and Mark, meaning, he has to get rid of you.” “But Cross will kill him.” “He knows that. If he didn’t, he would not have given you everything.” Riley understood. For some reason, she knew Mark had taken the right course. “I just don’t have to like it,” she whispered.

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Chapter 20 He saw her—his Riley. He tried to call to her but when she turned, he looked at her in shock. Her beautiful hair hung limp, her eyes looking as if they had fallen into her pasty white skin, the fire gone. Sadness replaced her smile. Riley had lost the drive in her life, dying before his eyes. She sat on the floor at the foot of a throne. She looked like Leia in the third Star Wars movie. It became clear to him what went on. Her head jerked to the side from the collar enslaving her being pulled on. His wife had been leashed to the monster sitting in the chair. The monster had starved her, the realization hitting Mark hard. Barely able to stand, the monster had her dragged away, the ground cutting her body and leaving a bloody trail. Used up, he knew her life neared an end. He followed in the shadows and prayed while he sickened at finding her again. He learned when Cross’ slave was not on display, he chained her in another one of the rooms of his home, a dungeon like the castle in Geneva. He followed tunnels leading to a subterranean hell, Cross’ love. He gasped silently when he spied his Riley chained and unable to move. The sight of this caused Nicaragua and Geneva to come back to him, his memories drowning him as he broke into a cold sweat. “You’ve been bad. Mister Cross is not happy.” A woman dressed in black leather joined her. She stalked around the dying woman and laughed. “You know what happens when a slave misbehaves?”

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At Cross Ends He heard a whimper and saw the woman raise her whip to the woman he loved. She lashed her but Riley didn’t cry out. Mark remained in the shadows frozen and helpless to do anything. Cross entered the cell and ordered his slave to dress. She didn’t move. He yanked her to her feet. Mark swore he could hear bones snap. The Dominatrix dressed Riley in a white gown, the soft, snow-colored fabric turning red from the open gashes on her body. Cross walked around her. Mark noticed the bloodied gown drowning her and looking like it weighed heavy on her fragile body. He tried to look away but couldn’t, still frozen where he hid in the shadows. He saw Cross raise a gun and aim it at Riley’s head. He heard the monster laugh. Bang! **** Mark bolted up, a cold sweat breaking out. He had been in the condo for three months and the nightmares came every night. When will they stop? Answer your own question, fool. Kill Cross, regain your life, your marriage, your children and your wife. You have to get out of the forest of mirrors. He went into the bathroom and washed his face in cold water. He went through the same routine every night. Mark would go to bed, doze off for a short while, have the nightmare, then wake up drenched and cold, unable to get back to sleep. The nightmares varied from either Geneva or Nicaragua to what he knew Cross had done to his wife on the island, or the one he just had. Several times, he picked the phone up and called Kincaid Farms. When she answered, he didn’t say anything. It killed him but the sound of her voice soothed him. He needed to hear the soft melody of it, even if Riley only said one word. He knew she was still alive and safe. Mark went to his computer and logged onto the Internet. Every day, he surfed to find any new deals Cross had finalized. He’d then call the principle and, as he had done with Marak, he’d break the deal. 195

At Cross Ends One thing he determined would stop—Cross’ use of Mark’s name in his dealings, although it had been an advantage. After all, his solid knowledge of his own whereabouts proved invaluable. So far, he had cost his enemy about two hundred million dollars and some business associates. Poor guy—what a shame! “You deserve it after what you’ve done to us,” he muttered as an e-mail came in. Mister Singh’s dealings with the falsely identified Mister Kincaid have broken off permanently. A gift for you will be deposited in Zurich by 0900. Our extreme appreciation for your assistance in this matter. Pending confirmation, thank you, he replied. It amazed him how generous businessmen became when someone saved them from the possibility of financial ruin. So far, his account had grown by over ten million dollars. If anything happened to him, Riley, Lacey and the baby would be well taken care of. He never wanted it to be like this, but their enemy had forced the issue. He sat back and stared at the monitor. A sick feeling came over him. Will she take me back once all of this is finally over? Will I be able to handle her rejection, even if I can understand it? Mark stood up and put on a pair of jeans and a tee-shirt. He pulled on his Nikes, grabbed some money and his keys, then left the condo. He walked a block to the Inner Harbor and, because it was still early, he went to Hooters to put down a few. It would be a long night. **** When he returned, his on-line mailbox signaled he had a message waiting. He opened it, curious at the fact it had been sent by a Saudi sheik. We understand you have firsthand knowledge of a conman taking huge amounts of funds on the pretense of financially 196

At Cross Ends sound investments. We need to know if you can expose him for the fraud he is. We will pay you well for your assistance. Mark replied to confirm his agreement. Word had started to get around. Cross would get mad enough to concentrate on finding out who had sabotaged his deals. With him tied up with that, maybe the Kincaids would be safe until Cross had been taken care of—a long shot Mark would willingly take. Another incoming message signal—Mark read it. We need to know the whereabouts of Mark Kincaid on these dates. Mark looked at them and laughed. He had been with his wife on the flight back to the States. Cross seemed to be slipping up. He e-mailed the information back and received a thank you, along with a very generous gift of two million, five hundred thousand dollars. He read another message. Graham Cross had taken up residence in South Africa. He’d be there for a short while but his finances seemed to be running out. Mark made flight and hotel reservations, scheduling his trip to Pretoria for three weeks down the line. He knew by then, Cross would be at his worst and desperate. He also knew Cross wouldn’t have any of his so-called militia men with him. They didn’t work for free. He stripped out of his clothes and lay down. He hoped maybe he could sleep. **** “Ah, my dear enemy—how have you been, Kincaid?” “Go to hell!” “I already have. Now, I’m coming after you and your wife.” “Stay away from her!” “Touching, but a tad too late.” “What?” Becoming worse, the scene shifted, though Mark knew exactly where. 197

At Cross Ends Mark could feel the shackles on his wrists and neck. He could feel the sting of needles piercing his skin, followed by burning sensations traveling through every inch of his body. A bright light came on, blinding him until his eyes adjusted. He wished they hadn’t because when he could finally see, he saw Riley as she’d been in Geneva. Only no one would shoot the wire around her neck. Helpless and forced to watch Riley slowly strangle to death while Cross watched with joy as she hung. Mark watched his wife bleed out after the noose cut her throat. Cross’ laughter deafened him. No, he tried to scream… **** Mark sat up. He tried to catch his breath, his respirations very heavy and erratic. He felt himself drowning, a sensation he hated. He shook, fear overwhelming him. He didn’t get up to wash his face with cold water, although his body needed to be shocked into some semblance of sanity. Only one thing could do that. Mark grabbed his cell phone and hit a number in speed dial. He waited. “Come on, please.” Another ring. “Pick up the phone, damn it!” Another ring. “Hello?” Mark heard Riley’s voice and in one word, she calmed him. His wife was alive and all right. “Hello, is anyone there?” Mark held the phone away from his mouth, his finger covering the mouthpiece so she wouldn’t hear him. He heard a click, the line dead. “Rad, I love you,” he said before shutting off his cell. He sat on the end of the bed and wept. He knew he needed to keep to his 198

At Cross Ends plan but it had become harder. Can I do this and do it right? One thing he did know—Graham Cross would die. Kincaid owed him. **** Riley hung up, then rolled to her side to try and get comfortable. Since she had found out for sure she’d be having her second child, her legs had been constantly cramping and making a good night’s sleep impossible. She got up and went to get a mug of hot tea, the only thing that would help her. Of course, if Mark had been with her… She pushed the thought to the back of her mind and went to check on Lacey. Her daughter slept soundly, as always. Nothing could wake her. Maggie joined her, sensing something bothered her. Since Riley had come home from Bethesda that day about four months before, Maggie had not left her side. Riley loved her, knowing why Mark cared so much for the dog. But the poor thing felt the same way she did. Both of them had been abandoned, and by the same man. Mark Kincaid—the love of her life, her savior, lover and father of her children—had left them suddenly, disappearing literally into the night. His own stepbrother had no idea where he’d gone and Tom had access to everything dealing with Mark’s covert operations. As his brother’s superior and main contact, Tom had tried finding where Mark might have headed but the trail went cold almost immediately after Mark left the hospital. They had discussed it the night before. “He’s got to be using one of his aliases we may have put together at one time and he opted to keep.” “So trace his activity.” “It’s not that easy.” “Why?” Riley demanded. “If we’re not able to track him by cell phone or any accounts, he’s out there as a lone wolf. Believe me, I have tried. I think what 199

At Cross Ends he did was take his other identity from one we either shelved for future use, or listed as dead. He has enough money to keep a second life. Mark’s smart or he wouldn’t be alive.” “But why? What reason would he have? He has a family.” “If he felt it necessary to keep a cover, he had good reason. My guess is because Cross escaped Geneva. Your husband and he go back and it’s become more violent and sadistic. Cross wants him, he wants Cross. But Mark has something more important to worry about, and that’s the two of you. I think he’s out there tracking Cross, using his own money and means. He won’t be back until Cross is dead and there is absolutely no threat to you and your family.” “Does he have the mental stamina to do this and know the difference between my Mark Kincaid and whoever he’s posing as?” “Yes, I believe he does.” “I hope you’re right, Tom. I need him back and whole.” “I know, sweetheart, I know. I do, too.” “Answer me truthfully.” “What?” “Will I get him back?” “If he’s doing what I think he is—yes. If there’s another reason—I honestly don’t know.” She thought more, always hopeful, but after the way he’d disappeared, she felt skeptical. Tom’s assurance had helped. Riley finished her tea and brewed another mug. The phone call woke her and she knew for sure she wouldn’t get back to sleep. She walked around the old farmhouse, feeling the loneliness and emptiness of his absence. Somehow… The phone rang again. “Hello?” “How are you?” “Who is this?” “An old friend. Where is your husband?” 200

At Cross Ends “I don’t know,” she said, hearing the fear in her own voice. She knew who’d called her—Cross had come back. She slammed the phone down, her hands going to her ears, shutting out the sound of his sadistic laughter. She had only one choice to make.

201

At Cross Ends

Chapter 21 Cross usually came out on top of everything but for almost five months, every deal he made—all multi-million dollar investments—had been routinely taken from him. He had lost close to a billion dollars and had not been able to figure out the cause or who might be behind it. His midnight call to Riley Kincaid had mixed results. Good ones because he’d located her and heard the fear in her voice. Bad—she had no clue about Kincaid’s whereabouts. Somehow, the devoted wife didn’t know. Why hadn’t he told her where he had gone? Shit! The bastard had to be coming… Maybe he could flush the enemy from his lair. If he went for the bastard’s wife, Kincaid would definitely show himself. Love had torn into Kincaid and ruined him by taking his edge away. Before going after Kincaid again, Cross had one deal pending. He had gone to South Africa, taken up residence in Pretoria and settled in. The new deal for hundreds of millions in diamonds had been a flush one, and he’d walk away with a hell of a pay-off. He had an eleven o’clock meeting with Lord Ian Whiteside. In a few days, the documents would be signed and he’d be set. Then he had two scores to settle. **** Mark’s plane touched down at the airport in Pretoria, one of South Africa’s three capitals. He walked off the plane straight to the customs deck. He showed his passport, his true one because he 202

At Cross Ends wanted to use as much clout as he could. Kincaid’s papers would get his luggage and briefcases into the country without a search. “Very good, sir. Is your trip business or pleasure?” “A bit of both.” “Thank you, sir.” “Thank you, you’ve been very helpful,” he complimented before leaving the customs area and heading to the car rental desk. He leased a black Mercedes-Benz and, once he stowed his things in the trunk, he drove to the small house he had taken for the duration of his business. He parked, unloaded his things and settled into the house. It amazed him how a small house on the opposite side of the world seemed almost as large as the one at Kincaid Farms. It would suit his needs nicely. He already had the first meeting set up in a suite in one of the larger hotels. He hoped to be able to remain anonymous until he wrapped everything up. A servant took his bags to the master suite while he kept his briefcases with him. In one, he kept a laptop, documents and two velvet pouches filled with perfect diamonds purchased in New York just before he left the United States. The smaller of the two held the bait. In the other case sat his partners—two .10 mm automatics, extra clips and two knives. For the first and last time, he would face his enemy prepared. He put the second case in the house safe, then set up his laptop. The entire transaction for the diamonds had been taking place via the Internet with no other contacts. He knew his mark and the mystery of his contact, along with the teaser, had Cross’ interest piqued. It felt good to have the upper hand. “Is there anything I can get for you, Lord Whiteside?” “No, thank you. If you would, dinner at seven. Jet lag is a killer.” “Yes, sir.” “Please see to it I’m not disturbed.” 203

At Cross Ends “Yes, sir.” The man bowed before he left Mark alone. Once the man had gone, Mark checked his e-mail. So far, everything went the way he planned. The Sheraton confirmed the suite on the top floor with Internet access. He’d be able to make the initial contact with his buyer. The Hilton had also confirmed the Royal Suite, the only drawback to this one had been the forty-five minute travel time but he had already chartered a helicopter for the second meeting. He laid out his plans for the second meeting and sat back. He would meet with Cross, then get him into the helicopter. They would fly to a secluded offshore location, where he and Cross would end it once and for all. He had one problem—getting Cross to go with him. If everything went as planned, Cross would die and he’d fly back to Pretoria, then leave South Africa for the United States by way of Sydney. He checked the account in Zurich and liked what he saw. In almost six months, he had taken in fifteen million dollars. He had done everything legally in his role as a corporate and investment troubleshooter. Many businessmen who dealt in very high financial circles sought the services of men who did just what he had been doing. The two differences came to light because usually troubleshooters dealt with many different clients and second, they had no personal agenda. Mark had targeted one man and one man only. By the time this played out, Graham Cross would be ruined financially and he’d never hurt anyone again. He replied to his latest message, got up from the desk and went over to the white overstuffed couch. He stretched out and immediately got comfortable. Mark Kincaid finally slept. **** “Cordelia, take Lacey outside. She should be enjoying the sun.” 204

At Cross Ends “Yes, Miss Riley,” Cordelia said. She took the little girl outside to play on the lush grass of Devane House. Before her parent’s deaths, she owned her townhouse in Maryland and her name had been added to the deed of Kincaid Farms. She inherited Devane House, her childhood home, and added it to her real estate portfolio. All this property and it didn’t matter—none of it did without Mark. She watched her daughter and smiled. For now, at least they were safe. She finished brewing yet another cup of tea, poured it and watched them from the window. She moved to the table and sat down. Six months along and she felt like she had been pregnant forever. The second Kincaid baby had three months to go, Riley unsure if she’d make it. She had moved back to the family home after the phone call from Cross over a month before. The fact he had called her on a private line scared her. A few days later, she called the man her husband had trusted to take care of the farm and advised him of her plans to take time away from Kincaid Farms. “I’d appreciate it if you’d take care of the farm for me. I need a change of scenery, at least until after the baby’s born.” “Where will you be?” “I’ll be at Devane House. It’s up in Alexandria but please, do not tell anyone. I need the time for my baby’s sake.” “Yes, ma’am. I understand. Will Maggie go with you?” “Of course,” she said with a smile on her face. “I’ll miss her. Ma’am, may I be open?” “Always. What can I do for you?” “Ever since you first came home here with Mister Kincaid, everyone has been in love with the lady of the house. We will all miss you and the children.” “Thank you. I’ll check in and you have the number. Please, I ask you not to give it to anyone.” “And if Mister Kincaid comes home?” 205

At Cross Ends “I don’t think he’s coming home for a very long time.” He accepted her evasive answer and did not press her any further. He said good-bye and left her looking out the window over the farmlands. Riley sighed, then went back inside. She knew she’d stay at the farm, had it not been for that one damned phone call. Why? Hasn’t Cross done enough? Is he the one who calls sporadically, then says nothing? Could it be Mark? Will I ever know? Now, she stood on the flagstone floor of the porch overlooking the acreage generations of Devanes had lived on. The Potomac River ambled by—calm enough for an occasional sailboat to drift by. The place had a unique beauty but Kincaid Farms bettered it. It amazed her how much the two differed with the small difference of twenty-five miles between them. She felt a chill and went inside again. The weather had been strange with up and down temperatures, rainy, sunny—all of it matching her mood. She knew why but there would be no relief until they got back together, however, she wondered if it would ever happen. Will he be all right? Will he love the children he’s never seen? Lacey had just about turned a year old and had never met her father. She had started walking, even though she’d fall back, her powder-filled diaper poofing each time she landed on the floor. What about his son? Son—she had never dreamed when she begged him to give her another child that it would be a boy. Will he favor his father? Have his eyes? His smile? She had been grateful to have one small part of him within her. She’d always have that but she wanted Mark more than anything. She realized she would take him back, no matter how he returned to her. Riley Kincaid loved this shadow in her life more than her own. Their love unique, it made no difference that he’d become a phantom to those who knew him, especially her. 206

At Cross Ends “Mrs. Kincaid, you’re shivering. Let’s get the two of you inside.” “Thank you, Cordelia.” They went inside, Maggie right there by her side, another part of her husband she cherished and loved. “Cordelia, I’ll be in the study. I need to call the office.” “Yes, ma’am. Miss Lacey and I will be upstairs.” Riley smiled, watching them go up the winding staircase of the old home. As near as she could tell, it was about as old as the country. She had been told it had been one of the first homes built along the river in the late 1780’s. She walked to the rear of the house where her office had been set up. Originally, it had been the housekeeper’s quarters and the location in the house attracted Riley’s interest. Close to the kitchen and out of the way, the person in that position could quietly do their job, while always being close by and able to get anywhere in the house quickly. The direct line from the office rang. “Riley Kincaid.” “Good morning, ma’am. How are you and the baby doing?” her overly efficient secretary asked. “We’re here. The baby’s very active.” “That’s good,” Lilah said. “I know but I hurt all over. Anyway, what’s on for today?” “Not much difference from the last few days, except a Mister Lockwood called…” Riley froze. “What did he want?” “To meet with you.” “No. If he calls again, tell him we’re overbooked and cannot accept anything new.” “Is he the one you told me about?” “Yes. RAD Designs will not deal with this man—now or ever.” 207

At Cross Ends “Yes, ma’am. Will you be in this week?” “I’m not sure. Little Kincaid is the one controlling that.” “We’re doing fine here. I truly admire you for putting together a business which runs itself.” “I seem to do that a lot, don’t I?” “RAD Designs, Kincaid Farms…” “Yeah, okay, let me know if Lockwood calls again.” “Yes, Riley. Talk to you tomorrow.” Riley hung up. She agreed about the success she’d had but it didn’t matter. Nothing mattered to someone bored and lonely. She had Lacey but she didn’t have Mark. She didn’t have a warm body to make love to her, hold her or comfort her. She didn’t have his cock thrusting inside her while she wanted his hands on her body. She wanted him to feel their son as he grew inside her. She wanted him to be proud of her and RAD Designs. She needed her husband but… She sat back in the desk chair and cried—this time selfishly. **** Mark arrived at the Hilton. The meeting had been set at a site some forty miles away but the helicopter made it easier and added a possible conclusion to his plan. The initial meeting at the Sheraton had gone well. Lord Whiteside had met with the buyer with positive results. Graham Cross had not recognized his enemy standing in the same room with him. Kincaid colored his hair and his moustache, the only remnant of his captivity in Geneva. He added a thick gray beard and glasses while wearing an expensive Versace suit and a different watch—a Rolex, but not the one Cross had confiscated when he kidnapped him the year before. He quickly removed his West Point ring, slipping it into his inside jacket pocket. After all, most British lords did not graduate from the Point. Sliding one of his .10 mm’s into the shoulder holster, he checked to make sure it was ready. He had left the other one 208

At Cross Ends locked in the safe at the house. The weapon stayed with the bulk of the gemstones. The only one he brought with him had been the perfect diamond. He knew Cross would check it to make sure he was buying the Real McCoy. Once the meeting began, Mark easily fell into character. “Mister Kincaid, how do you do?” “Lord Whiteside.” “I have another meeting in a few minutes. If you don’t mind…” “I have the funds discussed.” “I’ve brought a sample with me.” “A sample? I assumed…” “Never assume. I believe you were told this was an introductory meeting. When I conduct business deals of this magnitude, I always do it over several meetings. I find more success and trust comes from this way of conducting things.” “But, I…” “You’re not telling me you have something to hide, are you, Mister Kincaid?” Mark asked, stressing his name while watching for Cross’ reaction. “No, no, I may have misunderstood.” “Well now, shall we?” Mark asked, taking the diamond out of the pouch for Cross’ examination. Cross looked at it through a loupe, pleased. Mark smiled to himself, satisfied the bait had been taken. “Very nice. I said I…” he began to say as he handed the diamond back. “Mister Kincaid, I told you. I don’t conduct transactions at the first meeting.” “But…” “I suggest if you wish to proceed, you’ll do so as I ask or walk away right now.” Mark hoped Cross was still a greedy son of a bitch. 209

At Cross Ends “Fine, when?” Cross asked. He didn’t notice Mark’s faint sigh of relief. “Thursday at one. We’ll meet for drinks. I have business out of the city at the Hilton. We can conclude things then.” Mark watched Cross, obviously unhappy about the wait. “Fine, I’ll see you then, Lord Whiteside.” “Mister Kincaid.” Cross left the suite. Mark breathed a sigh of relief. He had successfully met Cross and hadn’t killed him. Instead, he made the guy sweat and enjoyed every minute of their meeting. Mark left the room, taking the stairs. He left by a side entrance, got into the Benz and drove off. Cross would sit in the lobby a long while before he realized Lord Whiteside had left the hotel. Let him stew. **** Once he returned to the house, he confirmed the suite at the Hilton and the helicopter. The fact he could pilot it made the whole plan even better. There would be one less witness to worry about. He saw he had no messages needing his immediate attention. He checked e-mails and found a curious one requesting his consult on the matter of a Mister Kincaid. He smiled and read further. We have a meeting with the above named to buy some diamonds. We are apprehensive due to some questionable practices of late. Can you enlighten us? Mark sat back and thought. Cross hadn’t intended to allow any time lapse between his sale and this pending deal. He had to be sweating out a serious cash flow problem since so many of his deals had fallen apart. Mister Kincaid has several things going against him. The real Kincaid is not a dealer in counterfeit ice or conflict diamonds. The real Kincaid is not broke and losing more daily. Do not trust this man. 210

At Cross Ends He pressed send and waited to see if there would be a reply. He didn’t have long to wait. Thank you for your quick response to our inquiry. We will cease contact with this man and advise our associates. We understand and accept your fee schedule and it will be taken care of ASAP. Again, our appreciation. Mark grinned at the unexpected bonus. The money and information about Cross’ movements had been an added bonus, a plus he had not anticipated but would definitely use. While he thought about it, another message came in. Mark opened it and smiled when he read the confirmation on his latest deposit. It’s a real shame it’s coming to an end in a few days. I like the money I’ve made off you. **** He poured himself a drink. Scotch had to do, even though he always favored whiskey. Right now, Mark didn’t care, things had been going well and, if things went as planned during his meeting with Cross, then he would be on his way home to the States, a peaceful life and his family. He loved the sound of that. In a very short time, Riley had become his life. He needed her and the time away from her had become a major endurance test for him. He emptied the glass and poured another. He pulled the picture from his wallet and gazed at his wife’s beauty. He remembered their time together and her sex therapy in Switzerland. His cock swelled thinking about her—her gorgeous body, luscious tits, hot pussy. He groaned, then took another sip of his drink. Tonight, he would relax and possibly get smashed. He sat on the couch with his feet up. He drank more scotch and refilled the glass once more. He looked at the ceiling, closed his eyes and saw Riley smiling back. God, I wish you were real… Mark fell asleep. His visions of his wife became the perfect reason to dream. He saw her as perfect as anything he’d ever seen. He went down her body wanting to remember her hair, her eyes, 211

At Cross Ends her smile. He wanted to kiss her long neck, her shoulders and he needed to take the peaks of her hardened nipples and suck on them while he thrust his cock into her waiting entry. He thought of the rest of her body and the sweetness that always welcomed him when he entered her. Darkness turned his visions into a nightmare. He heard her scream and horrified, he realized he couldn’t help her. He looked into her terror-filled eyes and she pleaded with him to help her but he couldn’t move. He looked at his hands learning the reason why— shackles. Cross’ laughter washed over him causing his skin to crawl. “Kincaid, it’s time.” “No, leave her alone.” “It’s too late. She’s dead already.” Mark saw her hanging, her eyes wide open. This time, Cross had succeeded and finished what he’d started. Mark cringed from the laughter, his eyes going back to Riley, his wife’s dead body swaying at the end of a leather strap. Mark bolted up, gasping for air. He felt like he was drowning, an icy chill running up and down his spine. He sat up to find the empty glass had fallen to the floor. He rubbed his temples trying to get rid of the explosive headache starting. “Riley, please…” He looked at his watch—seven p.m., meaning it had to be around lunchtime in Virginia. He wanted to call her but hesitated. Oh, the hell with this. Mark found his cell phone and called her. He had learned in a roundabout way that she’d left their home, for how long, he had no idea. On the slim chance he had figured out where, he called Devane House, the most logical place for her to go. “Hello?” No answer. “Hello? Cross, if this is you, get out of my life.” 212

At Cross Ends “I’m sorry, wrong number,” he said as Lord Ian Whiteside. He hung up, cursing. “Damn it!” He knew from this brief phone call he had better be successful, or Cross would go after Riley and the baby as soon as he sold the diamonds. “Please, God, look after them.” **** Mark Kincaid had flown for several years. He felt at home behind the controls of the helicopter he’d leased for the day. After he packed the Mercedes, he went straight to the aircraft, did a preflight check, then slid into the seat. After checking the instrument panel, he took off. The flight took a few minutes and he landed the chopper on the small helipad near the hotel. He took off the headsets and grabbed his briefcase before going inside the hotel. “Ah, Lord Whiteside. How good to see you,” the woman at the front desk greeted him. “Thank you.” “Your room has been taken care of and everything you asked for has been provided, along with some extras.” “Perfect.” “We delivered a gift of champagne from Mister Kincaid.” “Ah, have a second bottle sent up. He may want to celebrate.” “Yes, sir, at once.” She gave him his keycard and reconfirmed, the desk calling him to let him know of his guest’s arrival. He went up to the Royal Suite and prepared for his meeting. Considering the nightmares of the last several nights, he knew he needed to be successful. He felt good about his plans, though he rechecked his holster—the Glock at his waist nestled in the small of his back—and the extra two blades. He checked his pocket for the extra clips, satisfied. The phone rang. He answered it knowing Cross had arrived. “Lord Whiteside, you guest is on his way up.” 213

At Cross Ends “Thank you.” Show time! While he waited for Cross, Mark checked his disguise. He heard a knock on the door and immediately got into character as Lord Ian Whiteside from London, England. “Enter.” Cross entered the room carrying a silver briefcase. “Lord Whiteside.” “Mister Kincaid, I see you’ve come to deal.” “Five million US.” “Very good,” Mark complimented while opening the bottle of champagne Cross had sent up earlier. He poured two flutes, then handed one to Cross. “No thanks, I…” “You must. It’s traditional to seal a deal with champagne and a toast,” Mark said. Cross relented, then downed the contents of the glass in one move. “Aren’t you drinking?” he asked, Mark seeing an odd look on the man’s face. “I will when we’ve closed the deal.” Mark watched Cross to see if his suspicions had been correct. He didn’t have long to wait for an answer. “What the hell?” “I see you’ve spiked the bubbly. Not very nice of you.” Mark turned and put his glass into the small sink in the bar behind him. Relief seized him as he began to remove his beard and brush some of his gray hair away. He turned to face Cross and as he did, he unbuttoned his jacket and pulled out his automatic. “I think you’ve finally outdone yourself this time, Cross.” “What? What did you say?” Cross asked, his own drug working against him. “Mister Cross, you have outdone yourself.” “You!” Cross accused. “You…” 214

At Cross Ends “Be careful with your mouth.” “You son of a bitch. It’s been you all along, hasn’t it?” “In a word—yes. You’d be surprised by how many of your associates don’t trust you.” “I should have…” “Yep, but you didn’t—twice! Now, we’re going to take a little flight and settle this once and for all.” “I’ll kill you, then I go after the bitch.” “I don’t think so, Cross. I owe you way too much. You’ve used my identity to further your nefarious schemes. You've been threatening my wife and daughter, plus I know you’ll do anything to get me out of your life. Three years of your hospitality wasn’t enough for you. Well, I’m ending this as of today. I want you to experience the hell you put me through.” “Bastard, how do you expect to get away with this?” “About the same way you got away with what you have, only I have orders. You’re too dangerous to the country and its Chief Executive. Something has to be done. You have to be eliminated.” “You can’t do it!” “Try me,” Mark said calmly, his blood hot with rage. He picked up both briefcases and motioned Cross to the balcony and the outside stairway down to the terrace. Mark cautiously held Cross at gunpoint, urging his enemy toward the helicopter. Mark had Cross get in on the far side of the craft, out of anyone’s sight. He knocked Cross out, shoved him inside and handcuffed him to the seat. He holstered his gun after closing the door to the helicopter, then took both briefcases to the main desk. “Yes, sir?” “My associate and I will return later. Could you have these delivered to this address in Pretoria? It must be done immediately.” “Yes, sir.” She called one of the security people over. He took both cases and the address and left immediately after Mark gave him a hundred pounds to cover expenses, the money left over to be 215

At Cross Ends his tip. He gave the same amount to the girl at the desk as a token of his appreciation. “Thank you, sir.” “Thank you,” he said, bowing slightly before he left. **** Kincaid returned to the helicopter. He checked on Cross finding him still unconscious. He quickly slipped on a small rig, then slid in behind the controls. Within a few minutes, he had the engines fired up, the rotors moving and he went airborne. He flew to a small uninhabited island off the coast he had discovered earlier. He found it would enable him to do what he had to in peace. He found a place to set down and let out a deep breath. This had been a long time in coming and he intended to enjoy it. He figured he had every right. He pulled his gear bag out and quickly changed to a jumpsuit and work boots to make his job easier. He folded his clothes and placed them in the waterproof bag, along with his wallet, his knives and one of his guns with his holster. He placed the true diamond in the bag while leaving out the paste. His Ranger training and Delta Force service had served him well in the past and he depended on it doing the same for him now. Once he finished with his things, he secured the bag and replaced the previous harness holding a parachute. He checked everything once again, then went for his prisoner. “Come on, Cross, up you go,” he said, yanking the monster out of the bird. He unlocked the handcuffs long enough to do this, then relocked them when he cuffed Cross’ hands behind his back. Then he shoved Graham Cross to his knees. “You won’t get away with this, Kincaid.” “Oh, and why not?” “You can’t murder me. You don’t have it in you.” “I think I do, thanks to your hospitality. Hell, what do I have to lose by getting rid of you? My life—you took that twice. My 216

At Cross Ends identity? I took care of that. I got my name back and made a few bucks in the process.” Mark walked around him, circling his enemy like a vulture. “My family—I owe you for that one, too. My wife moved away from our home. She took my daughter. I have no clue where and I have you to thank for that, don’t I?” “The bitch deserves to die.” “Why? Because she’s another woman who outfoxed you? Is that why you murdered Seraphina? Your idea of permanent divorce?” “You’re a fucking bastard, Kincaid. I should have killed you.” “Yeah, you should have,” Kincaid agreed as he shoved the barrel of his Glock under Cross’ chin. The man glared back at him. “You are…” “What? A dead man? I don’t think so. I feel like a Phoenix that’s risen three times against my enemy’s will. I feel like a cat with six more lives. I owe you for all that.” “You…” “Then there are the men you chose to execute in front of me to get me to break. I’m sure their families will be happy to hear the man who gave the orders is finally where he belongs. How many others have you killed to get to this point?” “What do you have planned?” “I’m glad you asked that,” Mark began, stepping back. “You and I are getting in the helicopter and flying back to Pretoria. If you’d like, you can turn yourself in…” “Go to hell, Kincaid.” “I thought you’d say that. Plan B, we still fly off as in Plan A, but I’m bailing out. You can either fly it back, or crash into the sea.” “You can’t leave me to die. I can’t fly that thing!” “Then you’d better take a crash course, Cross.” Mark laughed, the sound scaring off some birds. 217

At Cross Ends “Kincaid, they’ll know it’s you.” “Will they? I took the liberty of signing the rental agreement in your name. The reservations manager took it as being Lord Ian Whiteside’s alias. Hell, Whiteside’s popular with the ladies, he needs a…” “Bastard!” “How does it feel, Cross? How does it feel to have someone else controlling your life and death? Well, Cross?” Mark’s voice exploded over the tiny island, more birds flying away. “What’s your whore going to say when she finds out?” “My wife, Cross!” he yelled, punching Cross and knocking him to the side before yanking him back to his knees. “Sensitive spot, Kincaid?” he spat out. “My wife is not up for discussion.” “She’s a drug addict, a whore, a pawn in any man’s hands. She was very good, especially when she begged for your worthless hide. I wouldn’t be surprised if she’s carrying another one of my children.” “She isn’t. She had enough sense to take precautions because she knew what you were all about. And yes, she did have an abortion after your little party with her in the Caymans.” Kincaid saw he’d found another weak spot, using it to his advantage. “You’re lying.” “No, I am not. Seraphina knew, too, and threw it in your face, didn’t she? She did and you beat her to death before you set the house up to be destroyed. You destroyed the only woman who truly loved you for yourself.” “Shut up, Kincaid!” Cross screamed. He tried lunging at Mark but Mark stepped back. Cross landed face down in the sand. Mark kicked him in the side before setting him back on his knees. “I found both of your weaknesses—Seraphina and the money. You should take extra special care when using someone else’s name for your nefarious games. No one respects a lowlife scum like you.” 218

At Cross Ends “Let’s make a deal,” Cross begged. “Do I look like Monty Hall?” “Please…” “Breaking so soon? I would have thought you’d last a day or two before begging for anything. You know, I kind of like being on this end of the game. I see why you enjoy it so much.” “Kincaid, please, I’ll do anything. I’ll go to the authorities. I’ll admit anything you want me to. Please…” “Shut up, Cross!” More birds flew off. Mark grabbed his enemy and pulled him closer so he looked Cross in the eye. “Kincaid…” “Listen to me. You took my life away from me several times. You killed my team in Central America. You damned near killed my dog leaving your sick message. I won’t go into what you’ve done to my wife and her family. Come on, a car wreck? You could have been a little more creative instead of leaving a blatant calling card. Hell, I knew the minute I heard about it. For all of this, you can’t be forgiven! I can’t allow you to breathe the same air as people I care about. You will not live since I have sentenced you to death, Cross. You will not see tomorrow.” Kincaid shoved him back. Cross landed on his back, crushing his hands against the cuffs. Cross cried out while Kincaid laughed. Mark walked to the helicopter and pulled out a bottle of water. He took a long drink knowing Cross watched him. “Kincaid?” “Go to hell. Know what you made me feel, you prick!” “No, you can’t do this.” “Why? Because I am a human being? You took my humanity away when you chained me up in dark, infested dungeons and cells. When you had your men eat full course meals in front of me, I got nothing. When I needed water, I had it thrown at me so my skin 219

At Cross Ends became dried out and my throat dried closed. My eyes no longer teared and when one did finally push through, it burned.” “Kincaid, I…get…it…” Cross began squirming. Kincaid saw why. A scorpion had crawled onto Cross’ leg and made its way to his chest. “Well, I hadn’t counted on nature’s help. If you want to live, I wouldn’t move. The slightest twist and you’re hers.” “Get it off!” Mark knelt down to watch. “I’ve been told the bite of a scorpion is lethal. Sometimes, one may take longer to get its poison into the system or could be quicker than another species. You’re lucky, she may be a slow killer. Oh, what have we here?” “Get them off!” Cross screamed when he saw the second one on his leg. “That must be her mate. Do you know what it feels like?” “Kincaid, please.” “After the victim is bitten, the poison heads straight to the central nervous system and the vital organs. It burns as it does, so you know exactly where it is in your body and when. You’ll convulse, the pain overwhelming. You may be lucky and pass out to never wake up.” “Kincaid…do…some… Ow!” “I have no serum for that,” Kincaid quietly informed him after he witnessed the first scorpion sting Cross. “I have no intentions of saving your worthless life. Nature just took care of my revenge for me.” “You’re no better then I am.” “Maybe not, but I’ll sleep easier knowing you’ll never hurt her again.” “What about you?” “You’ve taken it all. I have nothing left. If I ever find her again, I’ll be lucky if she even talks to me again.” 220

At Cross Ends Cross cried out when the second scorpion stung him. Kincaid waited, then pulled out one of his knives, flicking the lethal predators off Cross’ body. He rolled the dying man over and removed the handcuffs, throwing them into the brush. He picked Cross up and took him over to the helicopter. Cross groaned, his body reacting to the stings. “I can’t breathe.” “Good, you won’t feel a thing,” Kincaid sarcastically assured him while he put the man’s body into the pilot’s seat. He took Cross’ hand and placed it on the stick to make sure his prints would be found on it. He went to the other side, slid in and took the stick back. He wore latex gloves to protect the evidence of Cross’ tragic death, started the helicopter and lifted off. Once airborne, Mark got on the radio and called Pretoria tower. “This is Graham Cross. I’m in a helicopter over the ocean. I’ve been bitten by scorpions. Help me…” “Pretoria to pilot in trouble.” “I…need… I’m going down…” “Pretoria to pilot in trouble… Pretoria tower to pilot in trouble.” Mark took off the headsets and flew away from the island. He put the stick back in Cross’ hand, checked for a pulse and sensed a faint one. “Cross, it’s time for me to leave. Try and fly back yourself.” Cross looked at Kincaid and tried to speak but nothing came out. “You’re a few minutes away,” Mark told him as he reached for his gear bag. “No!” “Good-bye, Cross,” Mark said before he bailed out of the helicopter heading into the waters of the Indian Ocean. He dove in, then surfaced. After ditching his parachute, he treaded water while 221

At Cross Ends he watched the helicopter plummet back toward the island. He figured Cross must have made a last try at saving his life. Moments after impact, he felt the vibrations of the explosion in the water. A thick plume of smoke rose over the island, Mark watching for a few minutes before he began his swim back to the mainland. **** Hours later, Mark finally came ashore, tired and spent from his ocean swim. He had been fortunate to be able to float with the tide and rest before he’d start swimming again. He made land and pulled himself up to a small dock, finding himself in a small cove. The stretch of shoreline seemed to be privately owned but it didn’t matter. He walked to a small copse of trees and sat down. Out of the sun, he relaxed. After resting, he quickly changed from his wet clothes back into the Armani he had worn to his meeting with Cross. He pulled out his gun, holstering it behind him. One thing about Armani, they could be tailored to accommodate holsters and weaponry. Once he looked respectable, he changed the duffel into a backpack and began to look for a taxi. A few moments later, he got in a cab and spoke to the driver. “Pretoria Airport, main concourse.” “Yes, sir.” When he had been dropped off, he went to the parking lot where he had left the leased Mercedes. He’d deliberately parked a good distance away from the heliport to avoid being spotted. He slipped into the car and gently eased out of the lot before he drove back to the house. As soon as he returned, he told his butler he didn’t want to be disturbed. “Yes, sir.” Mark stripped out of his clothes and went straight into the shower. He put the jets of the massaging shower head directly on his aching body. The hot water pounded his joints, the heat easing 222

At Cross Ends his muscles. It had been a good while since he had done any distance swimming and he felt it in every move he made. He toweled off, threw on a thick velour robe and turned on the television while signing onto the Internet to check his mail and any news. He sat back surfing channels until he found CNN. He left it on and turned to the computer. So far, nothing. “Max?” he called. “Yes, sir?” “Could you fix dinner?” “Any preferences, sir?” “Steak, baked potato…” “How would you like the steak?” “Medium.” “Can I get you a drink, sir?” “Whiskey, straight, and the bottle.” “Very good, sir.” Mark’s attention went to the news report on CNN. American businessman Graham Cross has been reported missing after his helicopter went down in the Indian Ocean. A flight plan filed by Cross said his destination was one of the uninhabited islands off the coast. The search has been called off until dawn. Further details as they become available. Mark laughed. He dressed in a pair of jeans after hanging the robe in the bathroom. He sat at his laptop and read his e-mails. One caught his interest. Your account has been credited with several deposits. Each one totals 1.5 million dollars for a total of 10.5 million dollars US. Total number of deposits—seven (7) Mark read the total in his account and smiled. The new balance in his Zurich account had reached seventy-five million dollars. Fortunately, all legal. This would take care of his family for a long time. It had been a start, he hoped. What if Riley doesn’t take me back? I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it. Please, don’t let it come to that! 223

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Chapter 22 Several days later, Mark began to make reservations to return to the United States. He planned to catch a flight to Sydney and stay there for a day or two. He’d fly to Honolulu next and spend a couple of days on the beach before flying into San Francisco. He planned it this way in order to get his life back in order. He wanted to just act like Mark Kincaid—not Mike Kauffman or Lord Ian Whiteside. Somewhere over the last year and a half, he had almost forgotten who Mark Kincaid really was. He remembered his days in firefighting. Can I go back to it? I still love it but can I ever pack up again? The idea of being confined in the face mask bothered him. To wear a pack, a firefighter had to get a good seal to keep good air in and the smoke out. He desperately needed space. He thought of his position with the Chief Executive. Can I still be effective? He knew he could handle the undercover work, but did he want to? Do I want to be Mark Kincaid, or someone else? He had read about undercovers who had been under so long, they no longer knew the difference between their birth identity and their assumed ones. Do I really want to lose myself in that world again? He had just taken care of a case that had taken damned near seven years, if not longer, to bring to termination. The threat had come back multiple times, he and his wife at the receiving end of its presence. He remembered the physical and emotional stakes of the man involved and it bothered him more. What if it happens again? What if I work a case that uses my family against me? Can I open them up to that kind of danger? No, no way in hell! 225

At Cross Ends Mark thought a lot about Riley. She scared him more than any terrorist holding him at bay. To have her turn away from him would hurt. Just the possibility of the worst happening made him sick. Maybe that had been the reason he planned to take the scenic route home to the States. “You have mail.” Mark turned to the laptop and found flight confirmations, hotel rooms confirmed and car rentals taken care of. He picked up his cell phone and called Doctor Nick Bridges in San Francisco. The man actually lived in the Napa Valley, a place where Mark could relax. When Nick worked, he specialized in neurology. Mark had met him ten years before when Nick took care of an injury he suffered during a drug bust. He had been in trauma then before doing what he wanted to. In Nick’s off-time, he raised grapes and had become a fine vintner. Many times, they had long talks over good wine. Mark looked forward to seeing his friend and getting some advice. **** Riley had switched on MSNBC to catch the news. She missed seeing Ashleigh Banfield but liked their newscasts. Being the top of the hour, she caught the headlines. American businessman Graham Cross has died in a helicopter crash off the coast of South Africa. He had charted the aircraft for an afternoon flight to one of the uninhabited islands off the coast. Autopsy reports the cause of death as poisoning from two scorpion bites and drowning. Funeral arrangements… Riley immediately called Tom Blake at the State Department on his private line. “Blake.” “Is it true? Is he really dead?” “Yes, Graham Cross is dead and it was a positive identification.” “So, it’s finally over?” 226

At Cross Ends “Yes, sweetheart, it is.” “So Mark can come home from…” “He’s always been able to. He’s not a wanted man.” “But he’s…” “I know. I’ve been trying to contact him with no luck.” “Please find him.” “Believe me, I’ve been on it everyday since he went under. He’s good at it and I won’t be able to find him if he doesn’t want to be found.” “Keep me posted?” “Of course. Hey, how do you feel?” “I’ve been better.” “The baby?” “Is fine but very active. Lacey wasn’t and I’ve never hurt like this.” “Can Miranda help?” “No, she told me it’s normal. When this baby’s born, I want drugs.” “Can you handle…” “You know? I don’t know. It’s something I’d better ask her about.” “Riley, besides the one thing I honestly cannot do for you, if you need anything…” “Would you be in the delivery room with me?” “I’d be honored.” “Mark your calendar for about three months or maybe sooner. I have a feeling this kid’ll be coming hard and fast.” “All you have to do is call.” Riley hung up, relieved. At least, she’d found someone to help her give birth to her son. She laughed to herself. She had sworn Miranda to secrecy when it came to the sex of the baby because she wanted to be surprised but she knew she’d have his son. No ques227

At Cross Ends tion at all in her mind. She went to the study, called the office, then sat back and cried. The hell had finally ended—at least, part of it. The other part would be over once he came back to her. She needed him and no matter what—if he came home, she would not push him away. She couldn’t go through this again. “Ow… Damn, son, calm down,” she said, leaning against the desk, her free hand massaging her stomach. She fell back into her chair and cried. “Mark, please, I need you.” **** Mark’s flight into San Francisco had met a little turbulence but otherwise, had been smooth. He had spent most of the flight sleeping, even though he’d bought a CD player in Sydney and some CDs. He enjoyed Eric Clapton and a few others but sleep won out. He dreamed about Riley and Lacey. Just before they landed, the stewardess woke him. He patiently waited to go through security, the wait not bothering him. September 11th, 2001 had changed everything and he had been a part of that change having worked with the State Department and Justice on new measures. Besides, he had shipped everything else home, except one Glock and his shoulder holster. “Sir…” “My identification,” he said, handing the officer his ID and badge. “It’s in a shoulder holster, unclipped with no rounds.” “Do you mind if I get my supervisor?” “By all means…” “Sir, Captain Bruce Dawson, San Francisco International. Would you follow me, please?” They went to his office where they talked while Dawson checked Mark’s carry-on and garment bag. Dawson was thorough, Mark appreciating it. “Mister Kincaid, I understand you’re carrying?” 228

At Cross Ends “Have been since Pretoria.” “Official business?” “Yes.” “You told them outside that it’s a…” “I didn’t but it’s a .10 mm Glock, clips removed and in my shoulder holster. Don’t leave DC without it.” Dawson snickered. “May I see your ID?” Mark handed it to him. Dawson looked at it and the badge and returned them. “Thank you, sir, for your patience.” “It’s good to know the system works.” “You’re one of the few who feel that way.” “I worked on the groundwork for it some. It’s nice to see my work in action.” “Yes, sir, it is. Can I walk you out?” “Thanks. I need to get to the car rentals…” “This way.” Mark thanked him once they reached the counter. Another few minutes, and he had settled into a Dodge Ram pickup. He threw his carry-on on the floor, his garment bag folded over on the seat next to him with his jacket over it. Once behind the wheel, he slid a clip back into his Glock. After everything that’s happened in the last two years, will I ever feel comfortable without it ever again? **** An hour later after a leisurely drive, Mark arrived in Sonoma. Located in the Napa Valley north of San Francisco, it lay on some of the most beautiful land he’d ever seen. Looking at the countryside, Mark decided to cancel his flight back to the East Coast and drive back. It had finally hit him that he’d been gone about six months since he’d walked out of Bethesda. After what happened in Africa, his stepbrother had to have realized his involvement. If he took 229

At Cross Ends some time getting back to Virginia, he’d have the buffer he needed to come up with some answers and figure out how to go home to Riley. He drove up to the grape-leaf designed gates of Doctor Nick Bridges’ home. He stopped and got out of the truck to take in the ambience of it all. He got back in and drove up to the house. Parking the truck, he got out figuring to get his bags later. He had just put his sunglasses on the dash when he heard yelling. “Where are they, Doc?” “I don’t have anything here. I work in…” Without a thought, Mark drew his gun, pulling back the slide. He crept up to the side of the house, gluing himself to the outside wall by an open window. He took a quick glance inside and saw one perp attempting to strong-arm his friend. Why me? He listened to find out if there might be others but after a few moments, it seemed this guy was on his own. “Come on, Doc. I know you’ve got drugs here. Now…” “I don’t keep any here. I only deal with patients at the hospital.” “Come on. You don’t expect me to believe that, do you?” “I think you had better. Drop the…” A shot rang out as the tall man turned and randomly fired. Mark went down and returned fire, hitting the gunman in the shoulder. “My God, I’ve been shot!” “You’re lucky to be alive. If he wanted you dead, you would be.” Mark snickered. Nick winked, then called 9-1-1. “This is Doctor Bridges. I need police and an ambulance…” While they waited, Bridges treated the perp while Mark held him at bay. “Mister, why did…” “Why did you threaten the doctor?” “Who are you?” 230

At Cross Ends Mark felt like Jacob McCandles, John Wayne’s character in the movie Big Jake. It seemed they always asked him the same question when he did something out of the ordinary or the like. “Don’t worry about it. Worry about the cops who are taking your ass to jail.” “Doc? It’s Officers Markham and Carey.” “Back here.” The sheriff’s deputies joined them and the gunman jumped up begging them to take him to jail. They left with him after Mark agreed to stick around a couple of days to make a statement and help the investigation if they needed him. “Interesting way of entering a man’s house, Kincaid.” “I had planned to come up to the front door, Nick, but Dopey changed that idea.” Mark turned to shake his friend’s hand and heard a gasp. “Mark, you’ve been hit.” “Damn it,” Mark cursed, looking down and seeing the bloody spot on his shirt. It hadn’t been noticed because Mark had worn a black twill shirt. “Didn’t you feel it?” “Guess the pain tolerance has increased.” “Come over here and let me look at it.” Moments later, Nick had stopped the bleeding and stitched Mark’s side where the bullet had grazed him. Instead of lodging in his side or deeper, the bullet left a deep trail when it nicked him. “You’ll be fine.” “Thanks.” “How do you feel?” “Tired. I came straight here from the airport and I think six hours from Honolulu.” “Before you lay down, I want to make sure you don’t pass out on me. What hotel are you at?” “Hadn’t picked one yet.” 231

At Cross Ends “Good, you’re staying here.” “I thought you’d never ask.” **** Mark stayed with Bridges for a few days. He asked his friend to give him a complete physical. “I don’t honestly know if I suffered any damage in Geneva. The doctors at the Swiss clinic said I didn’t but…” he told Nick. Bridges had been one of the doctors he’d seen after Nicaragua. State had flown Bridges in because of his reputation and he had done wonders for Mark. “Do you remember six years ago?” “All too well. Why?” “Did he give you anything this time? Injections—anything that you know of?” “I don’t remember anything like that. I was barely fed and by the time they found me, I was pretty damned dehydrated. If a tear ran down my face, it burned and I felt like my skin would crack. There were a lot of beatings but I don’t remember much else.” “I want to run some tests. I want to be sure.” “Sure, that’s why I flew in to see you—that and soak up the Valley and some of your wine.” Bridges smiled at his comment. It had been the reason he settled in the area and dealt with an hour one-way commute into San Francisco each day. Their conversation had happened the day after Mark’s arrival. Bridges took him into the hospital and ran tests in the afternoon. Kincaid spent the time they waited for the results relaxing and riding. He realized how much he missed Kincaid Farms but before he could go home, he had to know he didn’t have any medical problems. He didn’t want or need any more surprises, though he did wonder about his emotional stability. One thing Mark Kincaid had been having trouble dealing with was insecurity, something he’d never felt before he met and fell in 232

At Cross Ends love with Riley Devane. Professionally, he could handle most anything he dealt with—South Africa proved that—but when it came to his personal life, he was a mess. Being unsure of his relationship with her and fearing she’d turn away from him bothered him more than the recent gunshot wound. Physical hurt was a piece of cake compared to how his heart felt—aching for her, yet terrified she would tell him to get out of her life. Get a grip, Kincaid… While he bided his time, he got onto Bridges’ computer and went into Kauffman’s account. He discovered confirmation of several more deposits into his Zurich account. It seemed Cross had made more enemies than Mark had previously figured on. Once his death had been confirmed, the gifts had been posted, most with one sentiment in the comment section—Good work, thank you. The later ones had been anonymous while the message had been clear— death and ruination of Graham Cross had been a desired element of the international financial community. He logged out of Kauffman’s screen name and accessed his own. He figured the time had come. Quickly, he went through the myriad of waiting messages and deleted the junk mail and spam. He saw a dozen or more recent posts from his stepbrother, all with the same message—Come home, all is forgiven. You are needed more than you’ll ever know. For R and L, please… “Not until I know I’m all right,” he muttered. He opened a new one just posting and froze. Your wife needs you—situation serious! He sat back and stared at the message. What the hell is going on? Tom is not the kind to lightly use that kind of message unless it is serious and something actually is wrong. Damn it—what do I do? What if it’s a… Where the hell has the distrust come from? “Nick…” ****

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At Cross Ends Miranda had been concerned about Riley’s pregnancy for several months. They had gone through the first without problem; the nine months going easily with Lacey being born at Kincaid Farms. Mark had been abducted and most of her term, she’d spent trying to get information from Geoffrey deWalt who, it turned out later, had been involved with Cross from the get-go. But this time, Mark had vanished on his own disappearing into thin air like a ghost. Riley had weathered the pregnancy so far but Miranda knew her emotions hung by a thread. How could this be happening again? “Riley?” she called after letting herself into Devane House and pocketing her key. “Doctor Wallace, she’s outside on the terrace. Would you like some coffee?” a maid asked. “Thanks.” She put her clutch and medical bag on the table in the middle of the huge foyer. She stood for a moment soaking up her surroundings. The entry opened into the magnificent area the house centered around. The stairway spiraled lazily to the second floor so anyone on it had a wonderful view of the opulent chandelier. Miranda shook her head, marveling at how different and down-to-earth its owner was as opposed to the world she lived in. Outside on the terrace, she found the coffee service waiting on the table, her patient out of sight. She heard laughter and looked over the wrought iron fence surrounding the terrace to see Lacey playing with Maggie under the watchful eye of Cordelia. Riley stood looking over them toward the river. Miranda went back to the table, picked up a mug of coffee and took out her cell phone. “Hi, Tom, it’s Miranda. When you get…” “Miranda, hi, what’s up?” “Thank God, I caught you. I can’t talk long.” “You’re with her?” “Yes, she’s out on the lawn.” 234

At Cross Ends “Why don’t I like the sound of this?” “You shouldn’t. I’m afraid she’s sinking deeper into depression.” “What can I do?” “I know this Cross thing is over with, right?” “Yes.” “Can you find him? I think two lives depend on it.” “That serious?” “I believe so.” “Miranda, I leave e-mails daily. I’ll try a different approach but I warn you, he may think it’s a ruse.” “Try whatever.” “I’m on it.” “Thanks. Gotta go.” She hung up when Riley came up the steps. “Miranda, hi. Not an emergency, I hope…” “No, one of my patients had a question that just had to be answered yesterday.” She hugged Riley feeling the pregnant woman’s loneliness. “I see you got your coffee.” “Yes, how do you get the fancy flavors?” “It’s one of my few vices, besides hot tea. I tried that one at a restaurant with…” “Mark?” “Yeah, we…” Miranda held her while Riley cried. “Get it out. When was the last time you let go?” “I haven’t. I’ve been trying to…” “Riley, you are hurting yourself and the baby. You’re way too tense. It’s not good for either one of you.” “It’s been a month since Cross died. Where the hell is my husband? I can’t and don’t want to have this baby without him. Once was bad enough and I can’t do it again.” “There has to be a reason and I’m sure it’s a good one.” 235

At Cross Ends “Yeah, he can’t take life with a wife and a family. We’re probably not exciting enough for him.” “You know that’s not true!” “Do I? Why haven’t I heard anything?” “Have you talked with his brother?” “He hasn’t heard anything either. I love Tom dearly and he said he’d be in delivery with me but I want my husband.” “I know, I know.”

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Chapter 23 Mark pulled into a roadhouse-styled steakhouse in Illinois. He went inside and ordered a thick T-bone dinner and a draft beer. He sat back with his beer and waited for the salad, then pulled out his cell, took a deep breath and hit a number he’d stored in the memory. “Tom, it’s me. I’ll…” “Mark, is that you? Don’t hang up!” “Yeah…” “Where are you?” “On the road.” “Are you all right? Do you need anything?” “I’m fine and yes, I need your help.” “Anything.” “How is she?” “Not good. She’s slipping fast…” “To where?” “She’s depressed. She’s put her life on hold, stays at home, only sees Miranda. It’s bad and, to be honest, it’s your fault.” “I know,” Mark quietly agreed. “Where is she? I know she left the farm.” “She’s moved back to her parents’ estate. In fact, she sold the townhouse in Maryland.” “Did she gets calls from Cross?” “How do you know that?” “Suffice it to say—I do.” 237

At Cross Ends Tom knew better than to push him. Kincaid had always been the best at keeping things to himself. Secrets and information couldn’t be pried from him, even after two years in captivity, making him the President’s best operative. “When are you coming home?” “I’m on my way now.” “Should I ask?” “No, but I have all the papers you need giving medical clearance to go back to work.” “What about Riley?” “It’s up to her.” “You can’t have turned into a cold bastard—I know you. What’s going on?” “Since I left Bethesda, a lot happened. I’ve lived the last year and a half as no one should have to once, only this was my second time. I had to take care of a couple of things and over the last several weeks, I’ve done a lot of thinking.” “I need to ask you—did you take out Cross?” “No.” “Were you there?” “Yes.” “You mean the scorpions actually did the job for you?” “Yes, it’s God’s honest truth.” “I’m telling you this as your superior—the case on Cross and his organization is closed. As your brother, go to her. She and the baby need you.” “Lacey, I don’t even know her.” “Your daughter is a little powerhouse. Her best friend is your Lab.” “Maggie?” “She hasn’t left Riley’s side since the day you were abducted. Now that Riley’s due again, she’s overly protective of the three of them.” 238

At Cross Ends “How far along—six months?” “Yeah, how…” “Geneva. That’s where and when it happened. Trust me.” “I’m telling you, get to her ASAP. Miranda’s scared to death on this one.” “Is two days all right?” “Not as good as two hours but…” “I’ll be there as soon as I can. Meet me at BWI in a few hours. I’ll…” “No, where are you?” “Greenville, Illinois.” “Can you get to Coles County Airport? On my map, it looks like it’s about ninety miles north-northeast from you.” “Okay.” “I’ll have a plane waiting for you when you get there.” “What about my rental?” “I’ll send someone to take care of it for you.” “Let me finish dinner and I should be there in two, two and a half...” “Good.” “I’ll see ya in DC.” “Yeah, and Mark?” “What?” “I’m damned glad you’re back and okay. I’ve really missed you.” “I missed you, too,” Mark said before he ended the call. His dinner had been served and he dug into the steak, elated it had been cooked just the way he liked it. While he ate, he thought back to California. Bridges had put him through a battery of tests and, with one exception, they had come back with fine results. The one problem had been in his lower back, though not enough to be overly concerned about. Nick gave him a clean bill of health. Mark 239

At Cross Ends then paid a call to an eye specialist who found no significant damage from the ordeal in Switzerland. “Doc, could you check my night vision? It had been extremely good before…” “Sure.” He performed a different array of testing and Mark came away relieved. While Mark ate, he began to get a case of nerves. The hardest thing he had to do lay ahead of him and it had already begun working on him. Hold it together, Kincaid! **** Several hours later, Mark sat on board a private jet in the air and headed to Washington. Tom Blake sat across from him, Mark feeling like he had when he would sit and wait for his father to lay down the law on something. “Well?” “Well, what?” Mark asked. “Where’d you go?” “If I tell you that, I’d have to kill you,” Mark joked, trying to ease the situation. Tom sniffed before getting serious. “Seriously, the Chief Executive got very worried when his best man went successfully AWOL. We looked for you all over the world and never had a clue until we got word of Cross’ death.” “Between us, I went to one of the covers I use when I need to go hide. I think this one was set up before you came on board at State.” “Why doesn’t anyone know?” “It’s like a sanctuary or safe haven and untouchable. A safe house, if you’d like to look at it that way, but not one on record. During a previous administration, I was given two checks to set up covers. I wasn’t to tell anyone my name, where I set up or anything.” “Why?” 240

At Cross Ends “We had one or two moles who were taking out ops right and left. After we lost a dozen or so, they came up with this idea. I set up two—one in Vancouver I closed a long time ago. I kept the other one and used it when I left Bethesda.” “How is it there are no records?” “The covers are self-sufficient. In essence, they pay for themselves.” “But who gets the bills?” “Some went through out-of-state attorneys, or banks acting as trustees.” “You?” “Actually, both ways but I’d rather you didn’t know.” “Amazing—so you went under and…” “…Stayed under until I flew to Africa to follow Cross. The search eventually led me to Pretoria.” “What was the draw for Cross?” “He’d been making investments and financial deals using the name Mark Kincaid. I laid the groundwork to find out who he dealt with. They mysteriously found out that at the time of the deal, the real Mark Kincaid was somewhere else and they had been dealing with Cross. The deals were broken and Cross lost money. By the time he met with my alter, he was damned near ruined.” “What was your story?” “Lord Ian Whiteside of Edinburgh and London had diamonds to sell. I had the initial meeting with him and had him look at a perfect two-carat uncut rock—my teaser. He wanted more and that led to the second meeting.” “Where?” “South of Pretoria. We met but before he arrived, a bottle of champagne was delivered with his compliments. I didn’t trust it so when he did show up, Lord Ian insisted on starting with a champagne toast. He downed his and I watched. As I figured, Cross had drugged the bubbly.” 241

At Cross Ends “When did you reveal who Lord Ian really was?” “Then. He almost choked. I had chartered a helicopter in his name and flew him out to an island—uninhabited and perfect. We talked and he got to experience what he put me through.” “That’s when he was stung?” “Yep, by a female and a male.” “So the autopsy results were accurate?” “Yeah, Mother Nature did it for me.” “Tell me about the chopper.” “I made it look like he had tried to fly off for help but the venom got him first. I left the fake diamonds with him and I have the real one. In fact, I might make it into a ring.” “Don’t,” Tom said, concerned about Mark’s feelings. “I’ll probably put it in a safe deposit box or something. I don’t need any reminders. Anyway, I swam back to a private inlet, changed clothes and made my way back to where I had parked my rental. I flew out a few days later, spent time in Sydney, Honolulu and Frisco. That’s where I got the idea of driving cross-country until I got the nerve to call you a few hours ago.” “I can’t believe you did all this and we couldn’t find you.” “That was the whole idea.” “It worked well.” “Look at it this way—if anyone asked, all anyone knew was I went missing. I had found out about deWalt and it scared me how close Cross got to my family. I wasn’t going to allow him or anyone else to hurt the ones I love. I feared for the President’s life, so the less all of you knew—the better.” “Riley’s been a wreck.” “And for that, I’m sorry. She’s the only one who can forgive me for this.” “Cross called her,” Tom tried again. “I know.” “How?” 242

At Cross Ends “I would have nightmares about what that monster had done and I’d wake up shivering. They went from my captivities to bringing Riley in and doing whatever to her. One night, the one I had about her became the worst. I woke up shivering, sweating and terrified. I intended to hang up when I heard her say hello but she answered the phone screaming at Cross to leave her alone. Lord Ian apologized for the wrong number and I hung up.” “Had you called before that?” “Afraid so. I’d do it to hear her voice. I could tell a lot from how she answered the phone. I never gave myself away. I guessed she moved to Devane House after Cross’ call.” “She called me right after the call. He scared the shit out of her. It was after the call that she moved out of Kincaid Farms.” “What’s she been doing?” “She runs RAD Designs or rather, it runs itself. That’s how Cross made contact with her when he abducted her both times.” “What do you mean?” “A man named Lockwood wined and dined her both times. The first time she left their meeting and wound up in the Caymans. That was when she worked for the firm in DC. The second time, Lockwood met her after RAD Designs opened. Lockwood took her to dinner and she wound up in Geneva.” “Where can I find him?” “You can’t. For one thing, Lockwood doesn’t exist. Second, he’s dead. We figure Cross got rid of him before you could.” “Why?” “Lockwood was Brett Goren. We found his body dumped in a junkyard in South Philadelphia a few weeks ago. They figured he’d been dead for several months. He’d tried to contact her again but this time, she told Lilah to dump him.” “Definite identification?” “Yes.” “Good, I couldn’t even think of going home if he was still alive.” 243

At Cross Ends “We searched for him from the time we knew he and Cross fled Switzerland. Believe me, priority on this case came high. The Chief Executive’s goddaughter and her child were involved, her parents murdered, the bad guys on the run and you went missing. My plate was full. It came from the top. I hoped you would do something but I would have preferred knowing what you were doing.” “When I bolted, I had no idea.” “You obviously didn’t need our help.” “No, you did what I knew you would, though and I appreciate it.” “Just to let you know, your wife asked me to be in the delivery room when the baby’s born.” “You might still be there if she doesn’t forgive me.” “All she does is talk about you. She wants you and only you. In fact, she loves you so much, that ever since you were first abducted after that rescue call, she banked your checks. She refused to take anything from those checks saying they were yours and, if you came home and couldn’t go on with her, you’d have everything that was yours. She wouldn’t have it come between the two of you.” “God, what she must think…” “Which is why I tried to find you through e-mail and changed the message. It’s why we are sitting here right now. She’s beginning to lose herself. She’s slipping into depression. When she looks at Lacey playing in the yard, she looks past her daughter. According to Miranda, she stares a lot at the Potomac. She’s beginning to wonder about you.” “What do you mean?” “She’s questioning your commitment to her. This started yesterday.” “I see now why you told me it couldn’t wait.”

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Chapter 24 Miranda decided to stop by Riley’s once a day to check on her and the baby. Cordelia gave her a daily update on how Miss Riley fared. “Miss Miranda, she’s not doing any one of them any good,” Cordelia told her. “Poor Lacey, she’s getting to want her mama’s attention and she ain’t gettin’ it.” “Where is she?” “Out lookin’ at the river. It’s scary. It’s like she’s lookin’ to it for peace or something.” “This is what worries me, Cordelia.” Miranda went outside and saw Riley staring at the river. She shook her head and prayed Tom Blake would be able to find his brother and soon. Riley needed her husband if she and the baby had any chance to survive. **** Riley crossed her arms in front of her. She felt a chill, even though she’d dressed in jeans and a mock turtleneck sweater. She had put on her husband’s job shirt, the one he wore the last time he had responded to a rescue call. Warm and large enough to cover her expanding stomach, she felt close to Mark when she wore it. Her hand went to her stomach when she felt the baby move. She thought of the time at the chalet when they had conceived him and smiled, one of the times coming back to her. It had been a moonlit night, the full beauty of the moon’s light illuminating the house. 245

At Cross Ends They had been looking out at the mountains, their heat warming them. She felt his cock sandwiched between them, throbbing its desire to be buried inside her. Mark turned her around, his cock against her stomach. “Riley, you should be a model.” “Not me. Besides, I only want to show off to you.” “True, I’m not sure I want other men looking at your gorgeous body.” She gazed into his eyes, drawing him into a kiss. His tongue dancing with hers, his hands held her tight against him, needing the contact. Riley slid down the length of his body, her hands on his chest while her lips caressed his cock and laved his balls. She took him deep into her throat, slowly driving him crazy. His hands held hers tight against him, refusing to let go while they clenched the moment she sensed his release ready to fill her. He groaned when she took his seed, swallowing his heat and wanting more. “Rad…” She knew he could feel her smile, her lips against his balls, his cock feeling as if he had gone deeper into her throat. Raw brutal emotion caused him to break her hold on him, push her to the floor and drive his cock deep into her pussy. Holding himself inside her, he laved her breasts, licking and nipping her firm buds. Her legs wrapped around him, pulling him closer. “Mark, I…” “Riley,” he said, pinning her arms to the plush carpeting in front of the windows. Bathed in the brilliant moonlight, Mark took her with a raw passion he feared losing. Fighting his hold on her, she arched her body to meet his. “Mark, please…” “You do not realize how sexy you are at this moment. Your pussy is holding me so damned tight, while your tits beg me to nibble them. I want to torture your senses, Rad. I…” “Then do it, Kincaid, fuck me senseless.” His mouth covered hers while he pounded his cock in her wet heat furiously. His body out of control, she languished in the erotic feelings of his basic instincts. The harder he took her, the more she begged. She cried out, 246

At Cross Ends his explosion within her sending shock waves through her as orgasm after orgasm crashed over them. Riley felt tears run down her cheek. She brushed them away, her hand massaging her stomach. “It’s you and me, kiddo. Your uncle will be there when you’re born. He’ll take care of you and your sister because I seriously doubt I’ll be able to. I’ve given up hope of seeing your father ever again except in my memories. He couldn’t handle it, I guess, and I think I understand why. I don’t think I can either.” “Miss Riley, someone to see you.” “Not now,” Riley said, trying to hide her tears. “He said to give you this,” Cordelia said, placing something in her hand before wrapping her fingers around it. Looking at the object, she prayed her wishes had come true. **** As soon as their plane touched down, Tom drove Mark to Kincaid Farms. He needed to see Riley but he had to get cleaned up first. He didn’t want her to see him after he spent the better part of twenty-four hours on the road, plus another two in the air. Walking into the house, Mark felt comfortable in his home but the loneliness from Riley’s absence overwhelmed him. She had brought life to the house—life now gone away. He determined to set things right. He had to. “Mark, I’ve got to get back. If you need anything, call me.” “Thanks, Tom—for everything.” The brothers shook hands before pulling each other into a hug. Tom left after wishing Mark luck. Mark walked around the house he hadn’t seen for almost eighteen months. She hadn’t changed anything except the fact she’d gone. He walked into his study and tried to imagine what he had been told had happened that day. Poor Maggie. Tom had told him she had become overly protective when it came to his wife and daughter. 247

At Cross Ends “If I were you, I wouldn’t move. You’re trespassing on…” “Duffy, it’s all right.” “Mister Kincaid? Is it really you?” “Yes, sir,” Mark answered, slowly turning around to greet his manager. “God, it’s good to see you. The place hasn’t been the same since…” “I can imagine.” “Can I get you anything?” “A quick sandwich and a drink would work right about now. I’m going to shower and change.” “You got it.” When Mark came back downstairs, he found Duffy had fixed him a steak sandwich—a love of his since he’d had one up in Philadelphia. He sat in the kitchen and ate it, drinking iced tea while Duffy gave him a quick update on where Kincaid Farms stood. “You’ve done a hell of a job. You deserve a raise.” “Mrs. Kincaid’s already taken care of that.” “I see.” Mark finished eating and asked Duffy to unpack for him. He told Duffy to send the suits to the cleaners. “I’m going out and may not be back tonight. If anyone but my brother asks, you haven’t seen me. No one is to know until I see my wife.” “Yes, sir,” Duffy said, grinning. The place had begun to be reborn and come alive. **** He parked his pickup in the driveway in front of Devane House. He had never been to his in-law’s home. He looked at the old home thinking, if he remembered right, it had weathered both the War of 1812 and the Civil War. “Stately and beautiful,” he said, climbing the steps to the front porch which ran the length of the front of the house. 248

At Cross Ends He picked up the brass knocker and dropped it once. Considering the time, he didn’t want to alarm anyone. He dropped it again and waited a few moments before the door opened and a woman met him with a frown on her face. “Can I help you?” “I’d like to see Mrs. Kincaid.” “It’s late. She doesn’t see visitors at this time of night.” “Give her this. She’ll see me,” he assured her as he handed her his West Point ring. “You have a name?” Cordelia inquired. “I do, but I’d rather we do this my way.” “She’s out back. If you’ll follow me…” “Thank you, ma’am.” Cordelia stopped and looked at him. “You’re him, aren’t you? Oh Lord, you’re just what Doctor Wallace says she needs.” “Just keep it a secret, all right? Give her the ring and I’ll take care of the rest.” “Yes, sir.” She beamed before going outside. Mark watched her cross the porch, then go down a couple of steps to the yard. He saw Riley from behind, his heart pounding. Not one for nerves, he had a slew of them now. He saw Cordelia give his wife the ring, then leave her to look at it. Go for it, Kincaid! **** Riley heard Cordelia’s quick steps coming up behind her. She waited for the woman to stop because it sounded like Cordelia was out of breath. “Miss Riley, you have a visitor.” “Tell whoever it is I’m not seeing anyone. It’s late but if tomorrow’s all right, I’ll see them then.” “He said to give you this.” Cordelia took Riley’s hand and wrapped her fingers around the gold class ring with sapphire stone. She squeezed Riley’s hand, smiled and left her. 249

At Cross Ends “This is ridiculous. Cordelia, tell…” she started to say when she caught sight of exactly what kind of ring she held in her hand. She caught her breath and froze, praying it was what she wanted and not a bad omen. She wanted to move but her body refused to. Tears came to her eyes. Please, don’t let this be a cruel joke. “Rad?” Riley looked up from the ring to where the voice came from. She trembled, looking at her visitor, a man in black jeans with a royal purple shirt and wearing a black leather jacket. Sex personified… Still, she could not move. He came to her and stood in front of her. Her hand hesitantly reached to touch his face to see if he was real and not her imagination working overtime. “Mark?” “Yes, ma’am.” He took her in his arms and held her. She trembled, Mark fearing she’d pass out. “You are so beautiful, Rad.” “You must be a dream. I’m not…” “Oh, yes, you are.” He put his hand to the side of her face, looked into her eyes, bent down and kissed her. She returned the kiss, her arms going around him. What should have been a light do you remember me kiss became one of fierce hunger. He drew back, his hand holding her head while she gazed at him, stunned. “I love you, Riley,” he told her before kissing her again. His mouth covered hers, then his tongue forced its way in to explore what he had not forgotten. He felt her surrender to him. They finally broke the kiss and looked at each other, the moonlight sparkling in her eyes. She looked into the fiery depths of his eyes and saw into his soul seeing he had returned to her. “Mark, I… I…” Riley stammered right before she fainted, her hand tight around his ring. 250

At Cross Ends “Riley?” he said, picking up his pregnant wife. He carried her into the house screaming for Cordelia. “Take me to her room and call either Doctor Wallace or Harmon Spencer.” “Yes, sir. One thing, the dog—she sleeps in her room, probably is in there now.” “Then do something. I’ve got to get her to her bed.” “Yes, sir.” **** Mark carried her into the bedroom and over to her bed. He spotted Maggie lying by the fireplace and felt her eyes warily following his movements across the room. He heard a low growl when he carefully laid Riley on the bed. He sat down on the side of it, Maggie becoming a little more emphatic. “Maggie, come here, girl,” he quietly commanded, holding his hand out to her. Mark prayed she would remember his scent and accept his return. He kept his voice calm and even, encouraging her. She hesitantly crossed the room to him and stopped, a safe distance between them. “Maggie, come,” he said quietly. This had been the first command he had ever taught her. The dog came closer, stretching her neck to check him out while still giving herself a chance to either run or attack the man sitting by her mistress. “Maggie, it’s all right. She’s all right. Come here and see for yourself.” The dog looked at them both, carefully considering him. Mark waited and gave her the time to take in what was happening and what he said. She edged closer and finally sniffed his hand. Mark held very still. He knew how protective she could be. She’d been that way about him before… Damn bastard! Maggie sensed something change in him and began to back up. “Maggie, come,” he repeated, trying to regain her confidence with him. She edged forward but he could see the confusion in her soulful eyes. 251

At Cross Ends “Maggie, please, come see Riley.” The dog perked up and did as he told her. When she came closer to the bed, his hand slowly went to a spot behind her ear he hoped he was the only one to have found. Bingo! Thank God… Maggie reacted to his touch once she realized this stranger was not a stranger at all. She relaxed while he calmed her, then she began sniffing him. Mark kept his hand on her sleek coat while she did this, their reunion complete. He heard a commotion downstairs before both Miranda Wallace and Harmon Spencer hurried up the stairs and into the room. Both froze when they saw him. “Miranda, I think she fainted. She’d been calm, no fever or anything.” “Mark? You are the answer to my prayers. Thank you,” she said, giving him a quick kiss before going to Riley. Mark stood back, his hand at his side for Maggie to follow. She did then sat in a spot where she could keep an eye on everyone. “Mark, it’s about damned time,” Spence said as the two old friends shook hands. “Where the hell have you’ve been?” “I don’t know where to begin. It’s a very long story.” “I wouldn’t expect anything else from you. Does Tom know?” “Everything. I contacted him and he told me what was going on. I had no idea or I would have been home a month ago after Cross was confirmed dead.” While they talked, Mark kept a watchful eye on his wife. Miranda had checked Riley’s blood pressure and heart. She pulled out a small monitor and called him over to join them. “Listen to this,” she said. Turning it on, she moved it over Riley’s stomach until she found the right spot. Mark heard a strong pulsating sound and looked at Miranda with curiosity. She moved it a little to the side and it became stronger. “What…” 252

At Cross Ends “That is Little Kincaid. You’re hearing the heartbeat. This child is very strong and very active,” she advised. Mark couldn’t believe what he listened to. “In all my years of covert operations, I’ve never heard a more beautiful sound.” “Not even on the rescue?” Spence asked. “Nope,” he answered, gazing at his sleeping wife. He grinned at the sound of his child’s heartbeat. Now he had to meet his daughter but nothing made any difference until Riley forgave him. “Go introduce yourself to Lacey. I’ll stay with Riley for a little bit. She’s finally getting the rest she needs.” Mark didn’t need to ask what she meant. He knew from his infrequent calls and especially the one, that Riley had been teetering on the edge. Please, forgive me… **** Spencer led him down the hall to his daughter’s room. Maggie followed at his heels, though he knew she was still a little apprehensive. She had kept his family safe when he didn’t. Mark loved his Labrador but knew that in a way, she belonged to his wife and daughter. Spence told him about Lacey’s birth at Kincaid Farms and some of her early life. Mark shook his head. “I’ve missed so damned much.” “You’re here now and that’s the difference.” They entered the room and found Cordelia fussing over Lacey. “She’s been waitin’ for ya. I changed her so you two should be okay.” She handed his daughter to him while Spence introduced him. “This is your daughter, Lacey Annabelle Kincaid. Lacey, your father.” The little girl had just turned a year old. She had never met her father but she knew him. Her hand reached for his moustache 253

At Cross Ends and she flexed her fingers back and forth as she tried to get to know him. He held her, gazing into her eyes—a mixture of Riley’s amethyst and his sapphire blue. A towel mysteriously appeared on his shoulder but he didn’t notice, Lacey holding his full attention. “Now, I’ve made it this far. Hopefully…” “She will, my friend—trust me.” **** Miranda and Spence left Mark with his wife. “We’ll be downstairs if you need us.” “Thanks.” Miranda gave him a hug. “I’m so glad you’re here. You are all she wants and she needs you.” “I hope you’re right,” he said. They left, closing the door behind them. Maggie had stayed with Lacey so they had no one with them, the moment of truth at hand. Mark stood and watched her sleep. He wanted to hold her. He wanted to tell her he loved her. He wanted to love her but Mark knew she held his life in her hands. Patience, Kincaid, patience… **** Riley slept but the only thing she could see was her husband standing in front of her. She could feel his touch and their heated kiss. She could see his ring, proof he’d survived God only knew what. Please, don’t let it be a dream. She knew her sanity would snap if it had been a dream. He stood in front of her when she held his ring in her hand. She hadn’t seen it since she put it in his backpack of clothes she took to the hospital for his homecoming after Geneva. She remembered one of the members of Delta Force giving it to her at the clinic, along with his watch, his wallet and his job shirt. Except for his job shirt, she had packed it with his wallet and Rolex ages ago. 254

At Cross Ends She looked into his eyes, her body frozen and unable to move. He came to her and held her hand, then the kiss… “Mark,” she whispered. No answer. So it was my imagination. Mark Kincaid was a dream—one she never wanted to end. Riley began to tremble. “No, Mark, don’t go. Don’t leave me again—please…” “I won’t, I swear. I’ll stay if you’ll have me.” **** Mark watched her sleep. He noticed her restlessness knowing her mind had a lot to deal with. He prayed she would let him help her but it had to be her decision. He had already made too many decisions affecting her life and the baby’s. It had come to a point where he would throw himself at her mercy and hope she’d… What? Let me back into her life just like that? If she’s smart, she’ll kick my ass out and not look back on her decision. While she slept, he made plans for the future in the event she turned him away. He’d go back to being Mike Kauffman. Mark Kincaid would cease to exist. He would make out a will first thing leaving everything to Lacey and the baby. He’d stage an accident to make sure there would be no doubt Mark Kincaid was dead. Riley could go on and live without the uncertainty of his odd existence. Thank God I didn’t tell my brother everything. I’ve got enough sitting in Zurich to take care of my needs, and theirs if need be. Mark looked back at her and saw her lips moving but her body trembled. Did she try to say something? His gut in knots, he went to her side and took her hand. “No, Mark, don’t go. Don’t leave me again—please…” “I won’t, I swear. I’ll stay if you’ll have me.” He watched her slowly open her eyes to look at him. It broke his heart to see the apprehension and sadness in them as they teared knowing it was his fault. “Is it really you?” “Yes, Rad, it is.” 255

At Cross Ends “Are you here for good?” “If you’ll have me.” “Why did you leave?” “I had to make sure someone would never hurt you again.” “You were in South Africa?” “Yes but I didn’t kill him.” “It wouldn’t have mattered. I’ve had peace since I heard the news. Then I concentrated on the hope you’d come back to me.” “I’m sorry about the way I did things but I won’t apologize for doing them. I had to stop him. I shouldn’t have disappeared the way I did but no one could know where I was. I did it to protect everyone I care about. If he knew anything about…” “I know, he would have used it. He called me one night. I…” “I know.” “You do?” “Do you remember the wrong number afterward? You yelled at a poor British guy who’ll never be the same. Lord Whiteside couldn’t speak, I was so upset.” “That was you? Why didn’t you…” “I couldn’t. What if he had been monitoring your phone to find me? In fact, I called several times late at night but I never said anything for that very reason.” “Then why…” “I needed to hear your voice. I’m sorry for being selfish.” “Mark, I…” she started. The baby moved and she made a face. Mark became concerned. “Riley? What’s wrong? Should I call…” “It’s okay. I’m fine,” she assured him as she inwardly smiled. Her husband cared. “Seriously, if this is too much, I’ll come back…” “Mark, stay. Please.”

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At Cross Ends “Listen, I need to know. I realize I did wrong by leaving the way I did. I had to. I couldn’t allow that monster to hurt us again. I knew he’d gotten away and I was terrified. I had…” “Mark, I understand now. Tom had been able to explain some of it. He had always felt sure you went after Cross and when word came Cross was dead, he knew you had to be involved somehow.” “I’m not proud of what I did.” “Where did you go after that? Why didn’t you come home?” “I needed downtime. I was emotionally drained so I came back to the States by way of Sydney and Honolulu. I stopped and saw a doctor in Frisco and…” “Are you all right?” she asked, concerned. “I was until I took a bullet across my side when I walked into an attempted strong-arm robbery.” “Mark…” “I’m fine. I’ve got a documented clean bill of health. Anyway, I left California and began driving back trying to figure out how to face you. I called Tom from Illinois and he flew me back here. If I’d had any idea what you’ve been going through, I swear I would have been back sooner.” “You’re here now.” “I need to know if you forgive me. If you don’t, I’ll be out of your life and you won’t have to worry about my hurting you ever again. I love you and you were on my mind every minute but if you want me to go, I’ll respect your wishes.” “Mark, all I ever wanted has been to have you here. I want you as my husband. I want you with our daughter.” “She’s beautiful.” “She’s got a lot of you in her.” “You did real good, lady.” “You had a big part in her and this one,” she said, yawning. “Like I said, whatever you want me to do, I will.” “Right now, all I want is a cup of hot tea.” 257

At Cross Ends “Hot tea coming up. I think I need a drink.” He kissed her hand, got up and left the room. He stood in the hall, his heart feeling like she had torn a hole the size of the Grand Canyon in it. **** In a daze, he went downstairs to where he heard voices. Never having been in the house before, he felt lost. “Mark, are you all right?” “No… I…uh…” “What happened?” Spence asked while he poured Mark a double Scotch. “I’m done. It’s over. I poured out my heart to her and told her everything. I asked her to forgive me and…” He stopped, then downed the Scotch holding the glass out for a refill. “What?” Miranda asked impatiently. “She wants a fucking cup of tea.” Spence poured another Scotch and Mark downed it, again in one gulp. “I don’t understand,” Miranda began. “Miranda, she felt something but she told me she was fine. Can you go check on her?” “Sure. Mark, are you all right?” she asked again. She had never seen him unsure and out of control like this. “I don’t know.” “Keep an eye on him. I’ll go see what’s up with her,” she told Spence before leaving the room. “Mark… Hey…” he said, turning to see Kincaid leaving the room. “I’ve got to go. This was a huge mistake. I should never have come back. Tell Riley I’m sorry.” As quickly as he spoke, he’d gone out the front door. “Mark! Mark!” Spencer yelled, trying to stop him but Mark had already gotten behind the wheel of his pickup and driven away. **** 258

At Cross Ends Mark drove back to Kincaid Farms, parked the truck in front of the house and ran inside. He went into his study and called his attorney, getting the man out of bed. He told his attorney what he wanted done. “Yes, I want it changed as soon as you can. Everything is to be left to my daughter Lacey and her sibling. I want my brother, Thomas Blake, to be the executer of this. My wife will receive whatever she needs to live comfortably and to raise my children but the material assets—the Farms, vehicles, the like will be held for them… No, there is not ill-will toward Riley. This is the best way. I want to be able to sign this tomorrow.” Mark hung up, his head spinning. “Duffy?” “Yes, sir?” “Things may start happening around here that will be emotional and unnerving. I want you to handle it. I’ve made provisions for you to be taken care of, no matter what.” “Thank you, sir—I think.” “If I disappear again, it will be permanent this time. I won’t be back. Do you understand?” “Yes…” “I am not telling you anything more, other than what I have. That way, if anyone asks, you honestly know nothing. Just make sure to keep an eye on my family.” “Yes, sir.” “Thanks,” Mark said, shaking Duffy’s hand. The man left, Mark seeing he was obviously stunned. He sat behind his desk and thought about the last twenty-four hours. Why the fuck did I call my brother? He poured himself another drink, downed it and went out to the stables. Mounting Pasha, his pure white Arabian stallion and favorite, he rode off under the light of a beautiful moon. It didn’t matter, he could see since his night vision took over, a comfort to him. Thank God I didn’t lose it. 259

At Cross Ends He rode for hours. Pasha responded to his every command while Mark felt free. They rode over the hundreds of acres he owned, the ones he would give up in a few days. “I’m going to miss you, my friend,” he said to Pasha as they walked back to the stables. A hand met him, taking Pasha to cool him and feed him. Mark stood on the lawn gazing over his property, feeling the loss already. He turned to go up to the house and froze. “What the hell are you doing here?”

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Chapter 25 Miranda raced upstairs to Riley’s room. She knocked on the door but went in without Riley’s invitation. She stopped, seeing Riley was not expecting her but someone else. “Oh, my God,” Riley gasped, quickly covering herself. She had been waiting for her husband, naked. Now, she reddened with embarrassment. “God, Riley, I’m sorry.” “Where’s Mark?” “Downstairs. He’s out of sorts. I’ve never seen him stammer like he did when he came downstairs. What the hell happened?” “Nothing, I asked him to get me some tea. Why?” “He’s worried. He said you felt something?” “I did. Our baby moved. I wanted to show him when he came back. I needed…time…to… Oh, God, what’s happened!” she slowly asked when Spence joined them. She could tell he’d been running. “Mark’s gone—tore out of here like a bat out of hell. I couldn’t stop him,” he gasped. “What are you talking about? Somebody tell me,” Riley demanded. “Did he tell you everything he’s gone through the last six months?” “Yes.” “Did he ask you to forgive him?” Spence pressed her. “Yes.” 261

At Cross Ends “What did you do?” “I…asked…I was going to tell him when…he…came…back… I…” “You stupid little fool, Riley Kincaid,” Miranda told her. “He poured out his heart to you and you trampled on it. You wanted to do…I don’t know what, but he needed reassurance. He needed your forgiveness. He needed his wife to love him and you asked him for a goddamned cup of tea?” “Miranda, I…” “I’m telling you this. I have watched you sink into depression without him. I’ve heard you begging him to come back. I know you want him to be there when the baby’s born. I’ve been here with you and I know. He comes back to you and all you care about is a cup of tea? When he came downstairs, he looked like you’d driven a stake through his heart and ripped it back out. Riley, you should have taken a gun to his head and pulled the trigger. It would have been faster and less painful.” “God, I didn’t know!” Riley got out of bed, Spencer slipping from the room to give her privacy. She dressed in a windsuit and a tee-shirt with a pair of Reeboks. “Where do you think you’re going?” “To my husband.” “Why? So you can break his heart more?” “No, so I can save it from any more damage.” “And if you’re too late?” “I’ll make it.” “I’ll drive you,” Miranda said. **** Miranda Wallace drove Riley Kincaid from Alexandria to Chantilly in record time. Her Audi flew along the back roads, Miranda flooring the pedal. Riley held on but her thoughts went to the man she had shattered. How could I have done this to him? 262

At Cross Ends She put her hand on her stomach when their child kicked. Why did I pass it off as nothing wrong? Normal and fine for her but her husband hadn’t felt his daughter kick and she had denied him the pleasure with this one. “My God, I’m so stupid. I was so thoughtless.” “Riley, calm down. You’re in your seventh month. I want you to go full-term with this baby.” “Right now, I need to find Mark and make things right with him. All I wanted to do was surprise him. I never thought he…” “Fragile is the word you’re looking for. Mark went deep under for six months on top of what Cross did to him. He decided to drive back from California to give himself some more time to figure out how to handle things. Tom told me he flew him back to be with you and…” “Don’t make me feel any worse than I already do.” Riley wept, looking out the window at the night. Miranda pulled into the driveway at Kincaid Farms parking behind Mark’s truck. Riley got out and ran to the front door, unlocking it to run inside. “Mark? Mark, where are you? Mark?” she screamed, tears running down her face. “Mrs. Kincaid, how are you?” “Where’s my husband?” “He went riding—left after he made a phone call and called me in for a talk. He’s got me worried.” “Why?” “He was talking like he’s leaving again and never coming back.” “Which way did he take off?” “Don’t go after him, Riley. You are in no condition,” Miranda warned. Riley became extremely frustrated. She needed to be with Mark but Miranda had been right. She had to consider her condi263

At Cross Ends tion. She went out onto the front porch and sat down on the steps. She refused to leave before she saw him. One way or another, she had to explain things to him. Miranda refused to leave without her. She went inside to put some coffee on, figuring it would be a long evening. She knew how long Mark would take on his ride, especially after the last eighteen months. She kept an eye on her friend and worried about Mark, a man she had known since he’d been brought out of Nicaragua. She watched Riley take the coffee she offered while staring toward the stables. She felt the chill of the wee hours of the morning but Riley would not budge. She would sit and wait for what seemed an eternity in order to talk to him. She tried to curl up to keep warm but Miranda noticed the baby didn’t like her position. “Mark, please come back,” she pleaded to no one. Riley held her knees up as she put her head down and closed her eyes. She let the tears toll down her face. “What the hell are you doing here?” **** Riley looked up, her gaze meeting his and she took a deep breath. “I came to apologize. I wanted to explain.” “I think you did that nicely.” “Mark, I am so sorry.” “For what—getting rid of a man who disappears for months at a time? That’s real good, Riley. I spent months in Geneva because somebody decided I should be tortured and eliminated. I thought of my wife, the woman I loved, twenty-four/seven. She came to me and saved me but the monsters got away. We spent several days, naked and in love and she begged me for another child and I did my best. I vowed then to get the monsters and protect her and our family. I left to do that, my big mistake—disappearing without telling her. Maybe she thought I didn’t trust her, but that was not the reason. If she didn’t know where I was, then she could honestly 264

At Cross Ends tell people she didn’t know. The same with the others I care about and love.” “Mark…” “I found the monster but it took time and planning. The monster’s dead. I made sure the scorpions did their job. I came back to the States and saw a friend of mine—a doctor I know because I needed to be sure I was a hundred percent so I could come home to my family. I come home and my loving wife—the woman I thought I knew—wouldn’t let me help her when she felt a pain.” “Mark, please…” “I asked you for forgiveness and you wanted a cup of tea. You got what you wanted. I’m out of your life for good. You won’t have to worry about my leaving you or endangering the three of you ever again.” “Mark, I need to tell you something.” “Don’t bother. You’ve already said enough. I won’t bother you again. Now, go home!” “I thought this was my home.” “Then I’ll go. I’ll be gone in a few minutes as soon as I pack some clothes. You know something? I truly believed you were different.” “Mark, I love you. Damn it, I listened to you. Why can’t you listen to me?” “Because I needed you to tell me you loved me hours ago. I needed you to tell me everything would be all right. I needed you to forgive me for what I’ve done but you couldn’t.” “Mark, I do love you and everything will be all right. I can’t forgive you because there is nothing to forgive. I’m glad you went after Cross. I asked you to get the tea for me because I wanted to surprise you when you came back. You can ask Miranda. She came in thinking something was wrong and turned fire engine red. Why? Because I lay naked across the bed waiting for you to come back. I wanted you to feel your child kicking and I needed you to make 265

At Cross Ends love to me. But I screwed up. Ask Miranda and Harmon. You are my knight in armor, the only man I’ve ever loved. I want those two days in Geneva back. I’m sorry I hurt you. I’m sorry I didn’t do things right.” Riley went to him, Mark cautious. He didn’t want his heart to ache any more than it did. He stepped back and knew in a second it had been the wrong move. “If that’s the way you want it, then I’ll leave,” she sobbed, turning away from him. She called Miranda and started to go over to the car. She felt him watching her but she couldn’t do anything. She’d hurt him worse than anyone ever had. “Mark?” “Miranda, take care of her.” “Mark, no. God, I’m so sorry. Riley, I’ll be with you in a moment. I need to ask Mark something.” They walked to the end of the porch, Mark keeping an eye on Riley. “What, Miranda? It’s done.” “She spent all seven months waiting for you to return. She’s borderline depression, which is not good for either one of them. I understand, sweetheart, you’re hurt but she was trying to tell you she loves you. When you sent me up to check on her, I could have set off fire alarms. I was so very embarrassed because she was not expecting me to come through the door. She wanted to seduce you and, as far as I’m concerned, she would have done a damned good job. A naked woman who is secure enough at seven months pregnant to lay in wait for her man to come to her has more going for her than I ever will.” “Miranda, what the hell do I do?” “Go to her. She needs you. You need her. Lacey and her brother need their parents.” “Brother? She’s carrying my son?” “Yes, she doesn’t know it because she asked me not to tell her. She feared the bad luck. She’s told both of them how special 266

At Cross Ends their daddy is. Don’t screw that up because of a misunderstanding blown out of proportion.” “Somebody, help me, please.” **** Riley waited by the Audi. She sobbed. Mark Kincaid had become her life from the moment she saw him on the beach in the Caymans. Now, he hated her because she had hurt him. She rubbed her stomach to calm the baby but Little Kincaid wouldn’t have any of it. She felt a pain, more than the child kicking. “Oh, my God, no!” The baby—Miranda had warned her but she didn’t listen. Now, she teetered on the verge of losing their son. She had always known but Miranda had been sworn to secrecy. Now, she’d endangered him and could blame no one but herself. “Somebody, help me! Please…” she screamed, the pains coming fast and furious. One pain caused her to almost black out. No, please God, save my baby. Please… **** Mark Kincaid and Doctor Miranda Wallace ran to her Audi and found Riley on her knees, one hand holding onto the car door, the other below her stomach. Crying and in pain, she begged for help. “Mark, get her into the house while I get my bag.” “Miranda, help me, it’s the baby.” “I told you to be careful, didn’t I?” “Ow… My God, it hurts!” Mark carried her into the house to the living room, where he laid her on the couch. Miranda followed while on the phone with Bethesda. “I need a helicopter and a neonatal team waiting for us. Patient is in last trimester, six to eight weeks premature—both mother and baby under extreme distress.” She gave them the vitals, then put the phone to her side when she went back to Riley. Mark ran 267

At Cross Ends outside to move their cars so the helicopter could land closer to the house. “I’m losing him, aren’t I?” “Riley, calm down,” Miranda said. Riley took her by surprise, grabbing her collar and pulling. After she screamed, she wept. “I’ve lost them both—first my husband and now my son. I want to die…” “No, you don’t. Mark’s right here. You’ve scared the shit out of him.” “I can’t do this.” “Yes, you can.” “He’s gone.” “He’s outside moving my car and his truck so they can land the med-chopper closer to the house.” “Miranda, Mark hates me.” “No, he doesn’t.” Miranda tried reassuring her while she prepared a mild sedative. “Riley, I’m giving you something to… Riley? Oh, my God, Mark!” Mark ran in when he heard Miranda’s voice laced with fear. “What’s wrong?” “She’s passed out. She’s going south fast.” “What can I do?” “Hold her and talk to her. Maybe you can get through to her.” “My God, Riley. Don’t leave me. I’m a pain and I’m sorry. I don’t want to lose either one of you. Please, Riley.” “Contractions are coming faster. I’m giving her something to slow them down. Tell them to have an OR ready. Yes, they’re landing now.” She yelled to the flight crew. Within moments, they had Riley onboard the medical flight and heading to Bethesda. Miranda monitored their conditions and prayed.

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At Cross Ends Mark felt lost. He could lose them both and couldn’t do a damned thing to help. Damn. I was leaving her anyway. She didn’t want me, or did she? “She’s so pale.” “She’s weak. Your son’s taking it out of her.” “Is she going to…” “Not if I can help it and neither will he. Mark, I told her to take it easy. I know you two argued but I think this goes deeper than what happened tonight.” “My God, Miranda, what the hell have I done?”

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Chapter 26 Riley woke in a room so bright, it blinded her. She felt lightheaded, her mouth dry. She felt empty, her hand slowly going to her stomach to find her answer. She had lost their son. First Mark, now our son... She cried, closing her eyes to a world which had left her desolate. “Riley, you’re all right. Please, don’t cry.” She opened her eyes slowly, resting her gaze on the person who had just spoken to her. “Mark?” “Rad?” “My God, I’m sorry. I wanted him so much. I’m sorry.” “Riley. He’s fine. Honestly, he’s a cute little guy.” “The baby’s alive?” Mark nodded, holding her hand while she wept. “What happened?” “Miranda staved off the contractions until we got you into the OR. She did a C-section and he’s in intensive care.” “You’ve seen him?” “Yes, I have. You did a great job.” “I could have killed him.” “No, it’s not your fault. Miranda said it would have happened one way or the other. You have something in your body which pushed the button on this. She thinks it goes back to the Caymans. She did some checking and found the same thing happened with Lacey, only she went to term.” “But it’s too early.” 270

At Cross Ends “Miranda has a team with him. The doctors say he’ll be fine.” “I want to see him, please,” she begged. “I need to see him.” Riley sobbed. The thought Cross had caused this threw her into an emotional frenzy. “Miranda wants you to stay in bed.” “I’m going to see him,” she stated. Mark saw the fire in her eyes return. “Riley… Oh, hell!” After he wrapped her in her robe, Mark picked her up and carried her to the neonatal intensive care unit. “Mister Kincaid, what…” “Doctor’s orders—speedier recovery if she sees our son. It’s all right.” “I’ll have to…” “You do that, Mrs. Tibbs. Riley needs to see her son,” he said as he carried Riley to the incubator where a tiny newborn boy slept. She gasped seeing everything attached to him to keep him alive. “My God, what have I done?” “You have done nothing wrong. It goes back to Seraphina’s drug regimen. He will be fine. From what I’ve been told, he’s a fighter, just like his mother.” “And his father,” Riley whispered. “Thank you.” Mark slipped out of the room leaving his wife and son alone. He knew she needed their baby more than she needed a fragileminded idiot. He stood in the hallway looking at them through the window. She doesn’t even know I’m gone. He turned to leave. “Where the hell do you think you’re going, Kincaid?” “Riley, you have what you want. You begged me for another child and now you have Lacey and your son. You don’t need me.” “Mark, I need you more than you know. You’re all I ever wanted. Did Miranda tell you everything? I didn’t think so,” she said, upon seeing the blank puzzlement in his eyes. 271

At Cross Ends “What didn’t she tell me?” “The last few days, I scared the hell out of her and Cordelia. I stared at the river for hours. RAD Designs, thank God, runs itself because I have done the worst job ever. Thank God for Cordelia because I can’t tell you what she’s done over the last few weeks. All I wanted to do was let the Potomac wash it all away. I had about given up hope, which is the reason why you got the 9-1-1 from Tom when you contacted him.” “Riley, no…” “I am nothing without you. While I had the hope you’d return to me, I could go on living. The hope started to fade and so did my desire to live.” She leaned against the wall, her strength waning. “Please, Mark, don’t leave me or them again.” He caught her as she slid down the wall, her face white as she went into shock. “Mark, I love you,” she said before lapsing off. “I need a nurse! Help me!” he yelled. Looking back at her, he fought to hold back his tears. “I love you, too.” **** Mark paced. Riley had been taken directly to surgery when Miranda discovered Riley suffering from internal hemorrhaging. She came out of the operating room, rubbing her temples. “Miranda?” “She’s fine. We just had to stop a bleeder.” “I could have killed her taking her to see the baby.” “Maybe, maybe not. You gave her what she needed. She needed the three of you together in one place. Why did you leave?” “I wasn’t even in the room with her, Miranda. All she cared about was the baby.” “You really are naïve. I thought I’d seen everything. The woman loves you. She gave herself up to Cross so she could find you and bring you home. She wouldn’t have survived the last six 272

At Cross Ends months or so if she hadn’t been carrying that child—your son and a piece of you.” “I…” “Come with me. Nurse, get Mister Kincaid a set of scrubs and have him put them on.” “Wh—” “Do as you’re told, Mark.” He changed and came out to find Miranda waiting for him. “We usually don’t do this, but she’s the only one in recovery.” She led him into the recovery room where Riley had been taken. He winced at the sight of her hooked up to machines but Miranda eased his mind. “They’re standard protocol in all surgeries,” she reminded him. “She looks…” “She lost a lot of blood, sweetheart. Her body was already weak from the last few days. The stress of last night alone with the germ he put into her brought the early delivery on. She’s got an uphill battle and she needs you. Now, go sit with her.” Mark slowly went to her bedside and took Riley’s hand. It worried him how cold she felt. All he wanted to do was warm her up. “Rad, it’s me. I love you. Please, don’t leave me. I’m so damned sorry our reunion got screwed up. All I wanted to do after we kissed was take you to bed and make up for lost time. Instead, it all fell apart.” He looked at her, then at the monitors and back to his wife. A tear dropped and hit her hand. **** Miranda made sure Mark stayed with Riley. She felt and knew in her heart, this had been for the best. Both of them needed this. Riley had been taken off the monitors except for the one tracking her blood pressure, respiration and heart rate. The lead at273

At Cross Ends tached to her finger was the only evidence of there ever being anything wrong. She slept while Mark sat with her as if he guarded her. Mark knew this would be their last chance to get it right. Their future together depended on it. He gazed at her, lifting her hand to his lips. He kissed her fingers, then her palm and felt the very heat that had been there from the very first time they had touched. “I love you, Rad,” he told her, squeezing her hand again. He put his head down on her hip and said a silent prayer for her safe recovery. He dozed off, sleeping lightly. Later, Mark woke to a light pressure on his head. He looked up to see Riley watching him. “You came back,” she said slowly. “If you’ll have me, I’ll never leave.” “I don’t want to live my life without you in it. It’s nice waking up with your head using me as a pillow.” “If that’s what my wife wants…”

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Epilogue A few months later Mark and Riley woke up with the sun streaming into their room at Kincaid Farms, having agreed to split their time between the Farms and Devane House. They had been up late getting their son’s room ready for him to finally come home. In the time since their son’s birth, Mark had resolved several issues in his life. He’d talked with the President, then his brother, the three of them agreeing the time had come for him to be removed from the active operative list. The President asked Mark to remain as a consultant until the change in administration and he also wanted Mark to train his replacements. One thing the President wanted, Mark gave him. “If I or this office needs your talents…” “Yes, sir—without question.” He’d gone and met with his fire chief. They discussed Mark’s fire service career and his experience. “I don’t want to lose you if I don’t have to. You will be around during the day, won’t you?” “More than likely—if not at the Farms, then up in Alexandria.” “I want you as a driver, engineer, the like. I trust you to get the crew to the scene and you know the ladies, others don’t. You’ll still be active but you won’t have to pack up and I won’t have to fight the medics when you get hurt and have to be flown all the way up to Bethesda.” Mark laughed at the memories of medics getting in his face every time he returned to the station after breaking protocol. They 275

At Cross Ends would yell and he would tell them how his life would be handled. Now, with his change in status at State, the flights to Bethesda would still be requested but he could be flown somewhere closer first to stabilize. Mark just wouldn’t let them in on it right away. Elections at the fire house came and went and his crew surprised him by nominating him and electing him to the position of rescue captain. He’d always had a special feeling for rescue ops and gladly took the position and the trust of the other firefighters. Mark looked at his class ring. He played with it while he thought. “Where are you?” “Thinking about how my life has changed so much in the recent past.” “Are you all right with it?” Riley asked. “Yes but we’d better get busy if we expect one of the changes to have a place to sleep when he comes home today.” Mark James Kincaid had remained in the hospital at Bethesda after his premature birth in the seventh month of Riley’s pregnancy. There had been many factors and one tiny complication but the main thing had been their son and their marriage had survived everything thrown at them. The baby had grown and stole the hearts of everyone coming into his young life. Now, they had a few hours before he came home for last minute details and to themselves. Riley had healed from the hysterectomy done to save her life. Mark’s support healed her emotionally. Her reaction to learning about the surgery to save her life had taken everything he had in him to get them through it. Their conversation in recovery kept coming back to him. “Rad, it’s all right. We have our daughter and son.” “But I’m not whole. I can’t give you any more children.” “Riley, it’s all right. I have gotten Lacey to…” “She warmed to you the first night. She’s like me.” “Sweetheart, if being able to have more babies means losing you, our small family is perfect because I don’t ever want to lose you.” 276

At Cross Ends “Where are you?” Riley asked again, Mark gazing at her. “Right where I want to be,” he replied, pulling her to him. She found herself on top of his body and her reaction. She saw his and knew he’d felt both. His hands went under her short robe to her naked breasts, massaging them. He pulled her down to him, removed the robe, then licked each nipple in turn. Her nipples hard, he traced their outlines, then tasted her and groaned. She supported her body against the headboard of their bed, relishing his touch. She felt his hands slide down her sides to her hips, then squeeze her naked ass. Riley gazed into his eyes, letting her husband guide her pussy to his waiting cock. “If you’re not ready…” “My God, Mark, it’s been damned near a year. You’ve been wonderful and caring but I’m desperate to have all of you.” He slid her onto him while she spoke, Riley easing the rest of the way so her nether lips could kiss his balls. Both of them felt her body envelop him, her pussy clenching around his shaft and refusing to let go. She smiled from the pain-filled pleasure. “Riley Devane Kincaid, I love you more than life.” “Then show me and never stop. Please, for the next several hours, can we relive the time in the chalet? I don’t want to have anything between us as you fuck me senseless and make me scream your name while I look into your eyes.” “Yes,” he growled, several days naked in the snow-covered mountains north of Geneva, Switzerland coming back to him. He thrust into her, then pulled her into a kiss while he tortured her senses. “Not one stitch between us?” “Not one.”

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Christy Poff lives in southeastern Pennsylvania with her husband and two kids—her teenage daughter and her son who serves in the Air Force. Stationed in Minot, North Dakota— he is thankfully only a cell phone call away. Previously, she wrote news articles for local newspapers and regional firefighting publications. With her articles, she added photography to her pieces. Writing for several years, she has a deep respect for the Civil War and has done extensive research into the times. This love and research have resulted in several Civil war novels including CHASE FOR AN ANGEL which was born from this and was released in March. Others have followed. She loves old cities with and history like Charleston and New Orleans, the wide open spaces of Wyoming and the Dakotas, plus seeing the rest of the U.S. and Western Canada. A volunteer firefighter for over twenty-five years, she’s been able to use her experience in several published works for others and even in some of her own work. People wonder what she writes to—Brooks and Dunn, Gary Allan, Linkin Park, Nickelback, Harry Connick or whoever strikes her mood at the time. She loves to watch Iron Chef on the Food Network, CSI:Miami and reruns of Nash Bridges, Miami Vice, Night Court and JAG.

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