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Chapter 17
Broots drove while Jarod loaded the guns. “Jarod, I don’t know if this such a good idea. Lyle could still call the sweepers and bring you back in. Maybe we should call the cops to help us on this,” suggested Broots.
With both guns loaded, Jarod looked across the seat at Broots. “No, the less people we involve the better.” He paused as he pointed to the side of the road. “Pull over there,” he ordered.
Broots pulled over to the side of the road and put the car in park. “Wouldn’t it be better if we stick together?”
Jarod continued to scan the area as he answered back, “Yes it would, however with Lyle in the drivers seat I can’t take the chance. While you drive the rest of the way, I’ll make my way through the woods, that way, once I reach the property I’ll be able to see if this truly is a trap.”
“And if it is?”
“Let’s just hope it isn’t,” he replied back, trying to reassure Broots. Jarod handed Broots one of the guns he was holding. Before opening the door he commented, “Make sure to wait five minutes once I enter the woods.” He was about to step out when Broots grabbed his left arm, forcing him to stay put.
As Jarod gave him a questioning look, Broots dug into his back pocket bringing out his wallet. Opening it up, he brought out a fifty-cent piece. Looking at it he explained, “This is my lucky fifty cent piece. I’ve had this since I was nine years old. It was the last thing my grandfather gave to me before he passed away. I’ve always kept it with me, you know, for luck.” Looking over at Jarod he let out a heavy sigh as he gave the coin to him.
“Broots, I...I can’t accept this,” he whispered softly.
“Yes, yes you can. If I know my daughter, she’s most likely scared as hell right now. Since she’s never seen you, she might be frightened of you, assuming that you’re one of the kidnappers.” He paused, looking at the coin. “Show her this and she’ll come with you willingly. She knows how much I cherish that coin. She’ll understand.” Looking at the clock on the dashboard he commented, “Time to get moving.”
Jarod nodded his head up and down as he slipped the coin in his pocket. He scanned the area one more time. Satisfied that nothing seemed amiss, he looked back at Broots and said, “Good luck.”
Broots flashed him a weak smile. “Same to you.” With that, Jarod was out of the car and running off into the woods.
XXXXXXX
After waiting five minutes, Broots put the car back in drive and headed towards the barn. He could feel the apprehension building within him with each passing mile. He was so tempted to just turn around, but he didn’t. Picturing Debbie’s smiling face in his mind was the only thing giving him courage.
There was something that kept nagging at him when it came to Lyle’s phone call to Jarod, but he just couldn’t put his finger on it. There was something that both him and Jarod were missing, but what? Seeing Lyle standing beside Jarod’s car in the distance, he eased on the gas, slowly coming to a stop. Reaching out, he picked up the gun sitting in the passenger seat, and tucked it in the back of his jeans. Taking a couple of deep breaths, he opened the door and got out.
He slowly walked over to Lyle, taking in his appearance. For someone who was supposed to seem worried, he looked all too confident as he leaned against the car. Broots could see the red flags going up in his mind. Every instinct in his body was telling him to turn around and run. ‘Calm down, it’s just your nerves becoming overwhelmed with the situation. You can trust Lyle. We’re both in the same boat here,’ he thought to himself. However, even his own thoughts couldn’t shake away the uneasiness he was feeling as he walked up to Lyle.
Turning his attention from Broots, Lyle looked behind him. “Where’s the lab rat at?”
Broots just hoped he could pull this off. “Jarod, didn’t trust you. He can’t take the chance, so he didn’t come,” he lied.
Lyle took a step closer towards Broots, looking straight into his eyes. “Is that the truth, Mr. Broots? You wouldn’t be lying to me now, would you?”
Broots didn’t flinch. “It’s the truth. Personally, I hope you do catch him and put him back in his cage. I can’t believe he would turn his back on saving my daughter,” Broots replied back with bitterness.
They remained silent for a while. Finally, Lyle spoke up. “My, look how the hero has fallen in the eyes of his beholders,” he said with smugness. “See what happens when you put yourself in the hands of the wayward pretender, Mr. Broots?
Broots hated this. He couldn’t help but feel disgusted with himself. “I know. I should’ve known better.” Changing the subject he asked hopefully, “Is Debbie in there?”
Looking away from Broots, Lyle stared off into the distance at the barn. “Yes, I believe she is. Along with Miss Parker.” Letting his gaze fall back on Broots he continued, “Well, let’s get going. I think our chances would be better if we split up. We can cover more ground that way.”
“Okay.” With that, Broots started walking towards the barn.
As Broots walked off, Lyle yelled out to him. “It’s a good thing you take route 14 to work.”
Broots abruptly stopped and turned around. “What did you say?” he asked.
Lyle closed the distance between them as he repeated the question. “I said, it’s a good thing you take route 14 to work, or you probably wouldn’t know where this farm was located.” He then walked past Broots.
Broots stood still, to stunned by Lyle’s words. The realization then dawned on him, blindsiding him with the truth. “This is a trap,” he mumbled under his breath. Lyle has behind this along. Now he knew what was bugging him about the phone call that Lyle placed to Jarod. How did Lyle know his driving patterns to the Centre? How did he know that he drove past this barn every morning when he went to work? But Broots now knew the answer. The only way Lyle could’ve known was if he’s been tailing him this whole time. He must’ve had someone watching his house, following him wherever he went, taking down his daily routines. Lyle was the kidnapper. He was the one who wanted his sister dead. Broots realized that Jarod and him just made a pact with the devil, and now they were walking into the gates of Hell.
Lyle stopped mid stride and turned back around, looking at Broots. “Well, are you coming?” he asked impatiently.
Broots had to admit he was now scared shitless. He didn’t even know if Jarod had made it here yet. He let his eyes dart around the woods, expecting Jarod to just magically appear, however no such thing happened. Looking back at Lyle, he swallowed down the huge lump that was building in his throat. “Yeah, I’m coming,” he answered nervously. “You go on ahead, I just need a couple of seconds to calm my nerves down.”
Lyle didn’t say anything as he nodded to him. When he turned around, Broots quickly scurried over to him and knocked him in the back of his head with the butt of his gun. Lyle collapsed to the ground as the blunt force knocked him out. Quickly looking around again, Broots made his way into the barn.
Hearing the door close, Lyle pushed himself up, rubbing the back of his head. He looked at the barn, smiling to himself. “So predictable,” he said with smugness. Standing up, he dusted himself off. Looking out into the distance he said softly, “I know you’re out there Jarod. It’s time to come meet your maker. You can’t run forever.” Turning on his heels, he headed inside the building.
Once inside, Lyle went over to the opening that was inside the floor. When he reached the bottom the step, the only thing that greeted him was an empty hallway. Walking with an air of confidence, he made his way into the security room. Going over to the monitors he asked, “Any sign of Jarod?”
Kevin gave him a puzzled look. “Jarod?”
“Ah, that’s right, you don’t know who Jarod is, do you?” Keving shook his head at the comment. Lyle continued, “Jarod, was the dark headed man you seen at Raines’ house. He’s a very valuable asset that I need in order for me to take over the Centre.”
“When we find him, do you want us to kill him?” asked Kevin confidently.
Lyle took a step closer. “No, I want him back alive. However, you can shoot him. Just no fatal shots, got it?”
Kevin nodded. “Yes sir.”
Looking back at the monitors Lyle asked, “What about Broots?”
Kevin walked over to the monitors, standing next to Lyle. “He’s walking aimlessly around the hallways, even as we speak.” Glancing as his boss he asked, “Shouldn’t we get him?”
Lyle gave a sly smile as he watched the television screens. “No, not yet. This is all just part of the game. I want them to think they have the upper hand. Just when they see that small ray of hope, we’ll come in and crush it. Sometimes us big cats need to have a little fun with the mice and rats before we devour them.” Changing the subject he asked, “How’s my sister liking her accommodations?”
Kevin cleared his throat, pushing a couple of buttons on the control panel; he brought up Miss Parker’s room. “Well, as you can see, she took the bait.” They watched as Jackson was curled up on the floor, obviously in pain.
Staring intently at the screen, Lyle commented, “Sometimes its too easy.”
XXXXXXX
With blood running down her chin, Miss Parker was thrown down onto the cold concrete floor.
“See, this is what happens when you don’t play nice. You act like a bitch be prepared to be treated like a bitch,” said Jackson with delight. “Oh, what’s the matter? Did I hurt Juliet’s little feelings,” he commented teasingly, as he knelt down beside her.
While keeping her head down, Miss Parker let her hair hide her face. On the ground she could still see the soft glow coming from one of the lights in the hallway. Seeing a possible way out, she pretended to be crying, letting her shoulders shake with effect. She got the response she wanted when the man whose hand she took a bite out of, knelt down beside her. “Morons,” she said to herself.
Cupping his ear with his hand, Jackson said tauntingly, “What sweetheart? Can’t hear you.”
Shooting her head up, she responded. “I said, MORONS.” Then, out of nowhere, Miss Parker kicked his legs out from underneath him. The man let out a surprised gasp as he fell to the floor. Still taking advantage of his surprise, she kicked him in the crotch. Curling into a fetal position the man yelped out in pain. Kneeling down beside him, Miss Parker grabbed him by the collar, bringing him closer to her face. With a smirk she said, “Amateurs.” Backhanding him across the face, she threw him down on the ground. Getting up, she grabbed his gun and headed out the door.
Staying up against the wall, she slowly edged her way down the hallway. She had no idea where she was going; she just knew she had to get out of here. As she got near a corner, she held the gun chest level and took a deep breath. Feeling a little bit more confident, she took a step out. When she stepped out she let out a startled gasp; surprised at the face she was staring at.
XXXXXX
Jarod made it to the barn before Broots. From the outside, there were no sweepers surrounding the building, but there were cameras posted all along the barn. With his binoculars, he was able to see Lyle sitting in the car. Casting the binoculars aside, he snuck his way down the hill, staying out of the cameras and Lyle’s line of vision.
Once he was besides the building, he edged his way near a sewer manhole. Bending down, he lifted the lid with all his might. He almost dropped the lid on his foot when the smell almost overtook him. Bringing out a flashlight, he looked down into the hole. The ladder seemed to go on forever. The only light was coming from his flashlight. He cold see rats, large and small scurrying away from the illumination. Putting the flashlight in his mouth, he climbed own the hole.
Jarod couldn’t believe how bad the stench was. He tried to breathe through his mouth, but it didn’t work. He could feel the nausea slowly working its way up his throat. Trying to push down the awful feeling, he held the flashlight in one hand, while using the collar of his shirt to cover his mouth and nose. With that, he jogged his way down the sewer line, hoping to find a way in.
The tunnel seemed to go on forever. Even though he’s only been in here for no more than five minutes, it felt like an eternity. It felt like the walls were closing in him on him. He kept on dusting himself off. He couldn’t shake the creepy feeling of spiders, and God knows what else crawling all over him. Just when he thought he couldn’t take any more, he saw a faint light. Taking his gun out, he ran towards it.
He could hear feet shuffling above him. He was obviously below the floor. Holding his breath, he listened to what they were saying, but their voices were to far off. When he heard the light flick off, he gingerly lifted the lid off, lifting himself through the floor. He stayed in the crouch position for a couple of minutes, expecting to hear alarms going off. Grateful that none did, he put the lid back on.
He could go through the hallway, but he didn’t want to take the chance. With his flashlight in one hand, he slowly spun around, looking for an air vent. “Eureka!” he said to himself. Standing on a chair, he unscrewed the screen. Once he was inside, he put the screen back in place. Turing around, he crawled through the vents.
After fifteen minutes of crawling, he heard someone crying in the distance. Picking up his speed, he headed towards the sound. When he finally reached the right grate, he looked through the slits to find Debbie lying on a cot, crying to herself. He almost broke through the vent, but thought better of it when he saw the mounted video camera. He knew he needed to disable it, but how?
He could take out his gun and shoot it, but that would bring to much attention to the room. Looking at the camera more closely, he followed the wire that was hooked up to the back. The wire went around the room and disappeared into the wall with the vent. Scooting back, he could see the wire running along the inside of the vent. Taking out his pocketknife, he snapped the line. Acting on pure adrenaline, he pushed open the grate and jumped out. He watched as Debbie instantly bolted up, and scooted away from him.
Jarod quickly walked up to the girl. Putting his hands up in defense he said gently, but urgently, “Listen, I mean no harm. My name is Jarod, and I’m here to help you.”
The girl was frightened. “How do I know you’re not working for them? They could be playing another one of their little games to try and scare me.”
Jarod knelt down in front of the girl. “I’m a friend of your father and Miss Parker. I’m helping them look for you.”
Debbie perked up. “Miss Parker is alive!” Happiness evident in her voice.
Jarod smiled. “Yes, she is, but we have to get out of here. If you still don’t trust me, here,” Jarod paused and reached into his pocket. Bringing out the coin, he held it out in front of Debbie. “Your father gave me this. He understands how frightened you are. I’m hoping this will show you that you can trust me.”
Debbie reached out a hesitant hand, staring at the coin in wonder. “My father’s lucky coin. He takes this with him everywhere he goes. This is something he would never give up.” Looking up at Jarod she said, “If he gave you this, then I know he trusts you.” With more determination she commented, “Let’s go.”
Jumping off the bed, Debbie headed towards the vent. Jarod lifted her up, pushing her in. He had to hurry. He could hear their voices echoing in the hallway. Jarod tried to push himself up, but he lost his footing and fell to the ground. They were getting closer. He couldn’t risk Debbie getting caught. Giving her a solemn look, he ordered, “Go!”
“But, they’re coming. You can’t...”
Jarod interrupted her. “Don’t worry about me. Just follow the vents out.” Jarod put the screen back on.
“No, I can’t do this alone. If they find me again, I’m scared of what they might do,” she cried out.
Jarod was about to reply, when he heard the doors being unlocked. With the grate securely on, he looked through the slits. “Debbie, go now!” he whispered urgently.
Debbie gave Jarod one final look. She could see the despair in his eyes. Taking a deep breath, she gave a reluctant nod and headed through the vents. When she was ten feet away she heard crashing and shouting coming from her room. She was about to go back, but froze when she heard a gunshot go off. Becoming more frightened, she turned around and crawled through the vents as fast as she could. Hearing movement behind her she turned back around. Relief flooded through her body as she saw Jarod crawling towards her.
Giving her a weak smile Jarod said, “See, I told you not to worry about me.”
She couldn’t help but laugh at the comment. Turning back around, they both crawled through the vent.
XXXXXXX
Lyle came running down to Debbie’s room ten minutes later after the security camera went out. Two men were being dragged out of the room. One had had a nasty bloody nose, while the other was bleeding profusely from his leg. He found Kevin standing in the doorway, who seemed to be in a trance like state.
“How could you let them get away?” Lyle spat out.
“It wasn’t my fault. If they just did their jobs like they were suppose to, none of this would be happening,” he replied as he nodded to the injured men.
Putting his hands on his hips, Lyle paced back and forth. Rage blazing in his eyes. “All my hard work is going down the drain. I’ve got imbeciles helping me.” Stopping mid pace, he strode up to Kevin, getting in his face. “Kevin, this is your fault. Don’t try to deny it. You were in charge of the security surrounding Debbie.” Lyle stepped away and turned around. Digging into his pocket, he brought out his gun.
Kevin wasn’t expecting this. “Sir, I can make this up. I’m sorry for the mishap. It won’t happen again,” he begged.
Lyle smirked at him. “You’re right Kevin, it won’t happen again. You’ve used up one too many chances. You were an asset, but has now quickly became a liability.” He paused an added, “It’s time I cut some losses of my own.” Aiming for Kevin’s head, Lyle fired the shot. Kevin’s body fell to the ground, eyes still wide open. Stepping over the body, Lyle ran down the hall, looking for Jarod, Miss Parker, and Broots.
XXXXXXXX
“Miss Parker!” Broots said, startled by her appearance.
“Broots!” exclaimed Miss Parker, letting out a huge sigh of relief.
Broots’ delight at seeing Miss Parker quickly vanished as he remembered where he was. “We have to get out of here. Lyle is the one behind everything,” he said rapidly.
Miss Parker gave him a baffled look. She was about to argue, but she could see the look in Broots’ eyes. He wasn’t lying. “Lead the way. I have no idea as to where I’m going.”
Turning on his heel, Broots led the way. “Wait,” he abruptly stopped. “Did you see Debbie anywhere in here?”
Miss Parker looked around nervously. “No, I haven’t.”
“I can’t leave yet, Miss Parker. I have to find her.” Looking down the hallway he commented, “To get out, just follow the hallway all the way down, take a right, then a left, head down the remaining hallway and you’ll be scott free.”
Miss Parker grabbed Broots by the upper arm, stopping him before he had a chance to run off. “I’m not leaving you down here by yourself.” She released the safety off the gun. “We’ll find her together.”
He shook his head up and down. “Thank you, Miss Parker. That means a lot.”
Flashing him a weak smile, she walked past him, starting the search for Debbie.
It didn’t take long to find Debbie’s room. When Broots saw Kevin lying in the doorway in a pile of blood, panic surged through him. Ignoring Miss Parker’s protests, he ran towards the room. Walking over the body, he went inside the room. There was no Debbie. Part of him was relieved, but the other part was even more frightened. Where was she?
Miss Parker came busting through a few seconds later. She found Broots looking around for any clues as to his daughter’s whereabouts. She could see the agitation on Broots’ face. In a fit of frustration, Broots ripped off the covers on the cot. Going over to the table, he lifted it up and flipped it over. She watched with sympathy as Broots lost his energy and fell to the ground. Putting his face in his hands he wept. “I can’t take this anymore. I can’t take this anymore,” he kept repeating through his muffled cries.
Miss Parker knelt down in front of Broots. “We can’t give up. I’ll be damned if I let Lyle win. Listen to me.” Reaching out, she lifted up his face. “Lyle won’t get away with this. WE WILL find her,” she said with determination.
Broots nodded his head up and down. Starting to feel foolish, he quickly swiped away the tears. Looking around the room again, something caught his eye. Scurrying over, he lifted the piece of paper up. He couldn’t stop the grin that came upon his face.
Miss Parker saw the smile grace his face. Now, she was confused. Getting up, she headed over. “What’s on the paper?” she asked.
“It says –fifty cent was here-,” he replied joyfully.
Miss Parker gave him a bewildered look. “What does that mean?”
“It means, that Jarod has Debbie. She’s safe.” Looking up at Miss Parker he said, “Let’s get out of here.”
Feeling a wave of triumph wash over her, she reached out and hugged Broots. Both were grateful that Debbie was safe and sound. A few tears ran down her face, but they were tears of joy. She looked at Broots, who was also going through the same emotions. Once they gained their composure, they headed out the door.
They knew there weren’t out of the woods yet. They still had the obstacle of Lyle to get over. There was an eerie silence that fell over the barn. The joy that Broots was once feeling was now quickly turning to dread. He just wanted to get out of here and see Debbie.
They made it to the stairs and climbed out. Miss Parker stepped out first, holding her gun out in front of her. She spun around, looking for anything out of the ordinary, but nothing jumped out at her. She glanced back to find Broots stepping out. “Ready?”
“Ready as I’ll ever be,” replied Broots.
With guns in hand, they ran across the hay-covered floor, towards the door. Both stopped dead in their tracks when Lyle came into view, blocking their way. “Well, if it isn’t dear old sis and her trusty nerdy sidekick,” he said with glee.
Miss Parker kept her gun trained on Lyle, who was also doing the same thing to her. “Lyle, it’s over. You know you won’t get away with this. Now move,” she commanded.
“I’m afraid I can’t do that sis,” he replied with mocked regret. “You see, you and your friend here need to die. I can’t let you both leave and start spreading nasty rumors about me.”
"Lyle, the only person who’s going to leave this building in a body bag will be you.” She spat out.
“Now, now Miss Parker. Let’s not get hasty. You know you won’t kill me, I know to many things. For instance, I know who put the order out on your beloved Tommy,” he said tauntingly.
“You son of a bitch!” she growled out.
“Now, is that any way to talk about our mother,” he commented with delight. “If your wondering about Debbie and Jarod, you’re too late. They’re already dead.”
“No!” Broots screamed out.
“Oh, yes indeed.” Lyle looked at his sister. He couldn’t hide the enjoyment that was radiating from him. “So, let’s see Miss Parker, what is that, four people you’ve lost because of your love for them.”
“I don’t love, Jarod.” Even she knew that was a lie.
Lyle shook his head sadly at her. “You can deny it all you want, but I know you love the lab rat.” He paused. “Do you ever wonder who suggested you be put on the Jarod pursuit team once he escaped, hmm?”
“My father did.”
Lyle laughed at the absurd answer. “Do you really think are old man and Mr. Raines thought of that, please? I’ve seen the DSA’s of you and Jarod when you were kids. I could see the bond was very strong between you two, and I couldn’t miss the opportunity of manipulating that bond. Here, Mr. Raines and good old Dad thought Sydney was the key to finding Jarod when in actuality it was you. You people are so easy to manipulate sometimes,” he said with confidence.
Miss Parker continued to glare at Lyle. “Lyle, if I know you, which I do, you would enjoy seeing me in pain. If you killed Jarod and Debbie like you said you did, then where are they? You would want to put them on display for everyone to see.” Now it was her turn to smile as she saw Lyle loose some of his confidence. “I’ve called your bluff, little brother. You have nothing and you know it.”
Lyle was becoming furious with himself, because once again he let his sister get the best of him. There was only one thing left for him to do. Throwing the gun to the side he dropped to his knees, and put his hands behind his back. “You win,” he simply said.
Miss Parker was suspicious of Lyle. She knew he had something up his sleeve. “What are you up to, Lyle?”
Lyle shrugged his shoulders in defeat. “I’m up to nothing. It’s time for me to realize I can’t win against you. So, come on, take me to the Triumverate, I know you want to.”
Miss Parker stood in place, keeping the gun on Lyle. Her attention was taken away from Lyle when she heard something to the side of her. Instantly realizing her mistake she looked back at Lyle. He was now on his feet; reaching behind his back he pulled out a gun and fired at her. She pulled the trigger on her gun a second later.
“No, Miss Parker!” she heard Broots shrieked, as he came running after her and tackled her to the ground. The last thing she saw before hitting her head on the ground was Lyle falling back, and the color of crimson blossoming on his white shirt.
XXXXXX
To Be Continued...
Chapter 17
Broots drove while Jarod loaded the guns. “Jarod, I don’t know if this such a good idea. Lyle could still call the sweepers and bring you back in. Maybe we should call the cops to help us on this,” suggested Broots.
With both guns loaded, Jarod looked across the seat at Broots. “No, the less people we involve the better.” He paused as he pointed to the side of the road. “Pull over there,” he ordered.
Broots pulled over to the side of the road and put the car in park. “Wouldn’t it be better if we stick together?”
Jarod continued to scan the area as he answered back, “Yes it would, however with Lyle in the drivers seat I can’t take the chance. While you drive the rest of the way, I’ll make my way through the woods, that way, once I reach the property I’ll be able to see if this truly is a trap.”
“And if it is?”
“Let’s just hope it isn’t,” he replied back, trying to reassure Broots. Jarod handed Broots one of the guns he was holding. Before opening the door he commented, “Make sure to wait five minutes once I enter the woods.” He was about to step out when Broots grabbed his left arm, forcing him to stay put.
As Jarod gave him a questioning look, Broots dug into his back pocket bringing out his wallet. Opening it up, he brought out a fifty-cent piece. Looking at it he explained, “This is my lucky fifty cent piece. I’ve had this since I was nine years old. It was the last thing my grandfather gave to me before he passed away. I’ve always kept it with me, you know, for luck.” Looking over at Jarod he let out a heavy sigh as he gave the coin to him.
“Broots, I...I can’t accept this,” he whispered softly.
“Yes, yes you can. If I know my daughter, she’s most likely scared as hell right now. Since she’s never seen you, she might be frightened of you, assuming that you’re one of the kidnappers.” He paused, looking at the coin. “Show her this and she’ll come with you willingly. She knows how much I cherish that coin. She’ll understand.” Looking at the clock on the dashboard he commented, “Time to get moving.”
Jarod nodded his head up and down as he slipped the coin in his pocket. He scanned the area one more time. Satisfied that nothing seemed amiss, he looked back at Broots and said, “Good luck.”
Broots flashed him a weak smile. “Same to you.” With that, Jarod was out of the car and running off into the woods.
XXXXXXX
After waiting five minutes, Broots put the car back in drive and headed towards the barn. He could feel the apprehension building within him with each passing mile. He was so tempted to just turn around, but he didn’t. Picturing Debbie’s smiling face in his mind was the only thing giving him courage.
There was something that kept nagging at him when it came to Lyle’s phone call to Jarod, but he just couldn’t put his finger on it. There was something that both him and Jarod were missing, but what? Seeing Lyle standing beside Jarod’s car in the distance, he eased on the gas, slowly coming to a stop. Reaching out, he picked up the gun sitting in the passenger seat, and tucked it in the back of his jeans. Taking a couple of deep breaths, he opened the door and got out.
He slowly walked over to Lyle, taking in his appearance. For someone who was supposed to seem worried, he looked all too confident as he leaned against the car. Broots could see the red flags going up in his mind. Every instinct in his body was telling him to turn around and run. ‘Calm down, it’s just your nerves becoming overwhelmed with the situation. You can trust Lyle. We’re both in the same boat here,’ he thought to himself. However, even his own thoughts couldn’t shake away the uneasiness he was feeling as he walked up to Lyle.
Turning his attention from Broots, Lyle looked behind him. “Where’s the lab rat at?”
Broots just hoped he could pull this off. “Jarod, didn’t trust you. He can’t take the chance, so he didn’t come,” he lied.
Lyle took a step closer towards Broots, looking straight into his eyes. “Is that the truth, Mr. Broots? You wouldn’t be lying to me now, would you?”
Broots didn’t flinch. “It’s the truth. Personally, I hope you do catch him and put him back in his cage. I can’t believe he would turn his back on saving my daughter,” Broots replied back with bitterness.
They remained silent for a while. Finally, Lyle spoke up. “My, look how the hero has fallen in the eyes of his beholders,” he said with smugness. “See what happens when you put yourself in the hands of the wayward pretender, Mr. Broots?
Broots hated this. He couldn’t help but feel disgusted with himself. “I know. I should’ve known better.” Changing the subject he asked hopefully, “Is Debbie in there?”
Looking away from Broots, Lyle stared off into the distance at the barn. “Yes, I believe she is. Along with Miss Parker.” Letting his gaze fall back on Broots he continued, “Well, let’s get going. I think our chances would be better if we split up. We can cover more ground that way.”
“Okay.” With that, Broots started walking towards the barn.
As Broots walked off, Lyle yelled out to him. “It’s a good thing you take route 14 to work.”
Broots abruptly stopped and turned around. “What did you say?” he asked.
Lyle closed the distance between them as he repeated the question. “I said, it’s a good thing you take route 14 to work, or you probably wouldn’t know where this farm was located.” He then walked past Broots.
Broots stood still, to stunned by Lyle’s words. The realization then dawned on him, blindsiding him with the truth. “This is a trap,” he mumbled under his breath. Lyle has behind this along. Now he knew what was bugging him about the phone call that Lyle placed to Jarod. How did Lyle know his driving patterns to the Centre? How did he know that he drove past this barn every morning when he went to work? But Broots now knew the answer. The only way Lyle could’ve known was if he’s been tailing him this whole time. He must’ve had someone watching his house, following him wherever he went, taking down his daily routines. Lyle was the kidnapper. He was the one who wanted his sister dead. Broots realized that Jarod and him just made a pact with the devil, and now they were walking into the gates of Hell.
Lyle stopped mid stride and turned back around, looking at Broots. “Well, are you coming?” he asked impatiently.
Broots had to admit he was now scared shitless. He didn’t even know if Jarod had made it here yet. He let his eyes dart around the woods, expecting Jarod to just magically appear, however no such thing happened. Looking back at Lyle, he swallowed down the huge lump that was building in his throat. “Yeah, I’m coming,” he answered nervously. “You go on ahead, I just need a couple of seconds to calm my nerves down.”
Lyle didn’t say anything as he nodded to him. When he turned around, Broots quickly scurried over to him and knocked him in the back of his head with the butt of his gun. Lyle collapsed to the ground as the blunt force knocked him out. Quickly looking around again, Broots made his way into the barn.
Hearing the door close, Lyle pushed himself up, rubbing the back of his head. He looked at the barn, smiling to himself. “So predictable,” he said with smugness. Standing up, he dusted himself off. Looking out into the distance he said softly, “I know you’re out there Jarod. It’s time to come meet your maker. You can’t run forever.” Turning on his heels, he headed inside the building.
Once inside, Lyle went over to the opening that was inside the floor. When he reached the bottom the step, the only thing that greeted him was an empty hallway. Walking with an air of confidence, he made his way into the security room. Going over to the monitors he asked, “Any sign of Jarod?”
Kevin gave him a puzzled look. “Jarod?”
“Ah, that’s right, you don’t know who Jarod is, do you?” Keving shook his head at the comment. Lyle continued, “Jarod, was the dark headed man you seen at Raines’ house. He’s a very valuable asset that I need in order for me to take over the Centre.”
“When we find him, do you want us to kill him?” asked Kevin confidently.
Lyle took a step closer. “No, I want him back alive. However, you can shoot him. Just no fatal shots, got it?”
Kevin nodded. “Yes sir.”
Looking back at the monitors Lyle asked, “What about Broots?”
Kevin walked over to the monitors, standing next to Lyle. “He’s walking aimlessly around the hallways, even as we speak.” Glancing as his boss he asked, “Shouldn’t we get him?”
Lyle gave a sly smile as he watched the television screens. “No, not yet. This is all just part of the game. I want them to think they have the upper hand. Just when they see that small ray of hope, we’ll come in and crush it. Sometimes us big cats need to have a little fun with the mice and rats before we devour them.” Changing the subject he asked, “How’s my sister liking her accommodations?”
Kevin cleared his throat, pushing a couple of buttons on the control panel; he brought up Miss Parker’s room. “Well, as you can see, she took the bait.” They watched as Jackson was curled up on the floor, obviously in pain.
Staring intently at the screen, Lyle commented, “Sometimes its too easy.”
XXXXXXX
With blood running down her chin, Miss Parker was thrown down onto the cold concrete floor.
“See, this is what happens when you don’t play nice. You act like a bitch be prepared to be treated like a bitch,” said Jackson with delight. “Oh, what’s the matter? Did I hurt Juliet’s little feelings,” he commented teasingly, as he knelt down beside her.
While keeping her head down, Miss Parker let her hair hide her face. On the ground she could still see the soft glow coming from one of the lights in the hallway. Seeing a possible way out, she pretended to be crying, letting her shoulders shake with effect. She got the response she wanted when the man whose hand she took a bite out of, knelt down beside her. “Morons,” she said to herself.
Cupping his ear with his hand, Jackson said tauntingly, “What sweetheart? Can’t hear you.”
Shooting her head up, she responded. “I said, MORONS.” Then, out of nowhere, Miss Parker kicked his legs out from underneath him. The man let out a surprised gasp as he fell to the floor. Still taking advantage of his surprise, she kicked him in the crotch. Curling into a fetal position the man yelped out in pain. Kneeling down beside him, Miss Parker grabbed him by the collar, bringing him closer to her face. With a smirk she said, “Amateurs.” Backhanding him across the face, she threw him down on the ground. Getting up, she grabbed his gun and headed out the door.
Staying up against the wall, she slowly edged her way down the hallway. She had no idea where she was going; she just knew she had to get out of here. As she got near a corner, she held the gun chest level and took a deep breath. Feeling a little bit more confident, she took a step out. When she stepped out she let out a startled gasp; surprised at the face she was staring at.
XXXXXX
Jarod made it to the barn before Broots. From the outside, there were no sweepers surrounding the building, but there were cameras posted all along the barn. With his binoculars, he was able to see Lyle sitting in the car. Casting the binoculars aside, he snuck his way down the hill, staying out of the cameras and Lyle’s line of vision.
Once he was besides the building, he edged his way near a sewer manhole. Bending down, he lifted the lid with all his might. He almost dropped the lid on his foot when the smell almost overtook him. Bringing out a flashlight, he looked down into the hole. The ladder seemed to go on forever. The only light was coming from his flashlight. He cold see rats, large and small scurrying away from the illumination. Putting the flashlight in his mouth, he climbed own the hole.
Jarod couldn’t believe how bad the stench was. He tried to breathe through his mouth, but it didn’t work. He could feel the nausea slowly working its way up his throat. Trying to push down the awful feeling, he held the flashlight in one hand, while using the collar of his shirt to cover his mouth and nose. With that, he jogged his way down the sewer line, hoping to find a way in.
The tunnel seemed to go on forever. Even though he’s only been in here for no more than five minutes, it felt like an eternity. It felt like the walls were closing in him on him. He kept on dusting himself off. He couldn’t shake the creepy feeling of spiders, and God knows what else crawling all over him. Just when he thought he couldn’t take any more, he saw a faint light. Taking his gun out, he ran towards it.
He could hear feet shuffling above him. He was obviously below the floor. Holding his breath, he listened to what they were saying, but their voices were to far off. When he heard the light flick off, he gingerly lifted the lid off, lifting himself through the floor. He stayed in the crouch position for a couple of minutes, expecting to hear alarms going off. Grateful that none did, he put the lid back on.
He could go through the hallway, but he didn’t want to take the chance. With his flashlight in one hand, he slowly spun around, looking for an air vent. “Eureka!” he said to himself. Standing on a chair, he unscrewed the screen. Once he was inside, he put the screen back in place. Turing around, he crawled through the vents.
After fifteen minutes of crawling, he heard someone crying in the distance. Picking up his speed, he headed towards the sound. When he finally reached the right grate, he looked through the slits to find Debbie lying on a cot, crying to herself. He almost broke through the vent, but thought better of it when he saw the mounted video camera. He knew he needed to disable it, but how?
He could take out his gun and shoot it, but that would bring to much attention to the room. Looking at the camera more closely, he followed the wire that was hooked up to the back. The wire went around the room and disappeared into the wall with the vent. Scooting back, he could see the wire running along the inside of the vent. Taking out his pocketknife, he snapped the line. Acting on pure adrenaline, he pushed open the grate and jumped out. He watched as Debbie instantly bolted up, and scooted away from him.
Jarod quickly walked up to the girl. Putting his hands up in defense he said gently, but urgently, “Listen, I mean no harm. My name is Jarod, and I’m here to help you.”
The girl was frightened. “How do I know you’re not working for them? They could be playing another one of their little games to try and scare me.”
Jarod knelt down in front of the girl. “I’m a friend of your father and Miss Parker. I’m helping them look for you.”
Debbie perked up. “Miss Parker is alive!” Happiness evident in her voice.
Jarod smiled. “Yes, she is, but we have to get out of here. If you still don’t trust me, here,” Jarod paused and reached into his pocket. Bringing out the coin, he held it out in front of Debbie. “Your father gave me this. He understands how frightened you are. I’m hoping this will show you that you can trust me.”
Debbie reached out a hesitant hand, staring at the coin in wonder. “My father’s lucky coin. He takes this with him everywhere he goes. This is something he would never give up.” Looking up at Jarod she said, “If he gave you this, then I know he trusts you.” With more determination she commented, “Let’s go.”
Jumping off the bed, Debbie headed towards the vent. Jarod lifted her up, pushing her in. He had to hurry. He could hear their voices echoing in the hallway. Jarod tried to push himself up, but he lost his footing and fell to the ground. They were getting closer. He couldn’t risk Debbie getting caught. Giving her a solemn look, he ordered, “Go!”
“But, they’re coming. You can’t...”
Jarod interrupted her. “Don’t worry about me. Just follow the vents out.” Jarod put the screen back on.
“No, I can’t do this alone. If they find me again, I’m scared of what they might do,” she cried out.
Jarod was about to reply, when he heard the doors being unlocked. With the grate securely on, he looked through the slits. “Debbie, go now!” he whispered urgently.
Debbie gave Jarod one final look. She could see the despair in his eyes. Taking a deep breath, she gave a reluctant nod and headed through the vents. When she was ten feet away she heard crashing and shouting coming from her room. She was about to go back, but froze when she heard a gunshot go off. Becoming more frightened, she turned around and crawled through the vents as fast as she could. Hearing movement behind her she turned back around. Relief flooded through her body as she saw Jarod crawling towards her.
Giving her a weak smile Jarod said, “See, I told you not to worry about me.”
She couldn’t help but laugh at the comment. Turning back around, they both crawled through the vent.
XXXXXXX
Lyle came running down to Debbie’s room ten minutes later after the security camera went out. Two men were being dragged out of the room. One had had a nasty bloody nose, while the other was bleeding profusely from his leg. He found Kevin standing in the doorway, who seemed to be in a trance like state.
“How could you let them get away?” Lyle spat out.
“It wasn’t my fault. If they just did their jobs like they were suppose to, none of this would be happening,” he replied as he nodded to the injured men.
Putting his hands on his hips, Lyle paced back and forth. Rage blazing in his eyes. “All my hard work is going down the drain. I’ve got imbeciles helping me.” Stopping mid pace, he strode up to Kevin, getting in his face. “Kevin, this is your fault. Don’t try to deny it. You were in charge of the security surrounding Debbie.” Lyle stepped away and turned around. Digging into his pocket, he brought out his gun.
Kevin wasn’t expecting this. “Sir, I can make this up. I’m sorry for the mishap. It won’t happen again,” he begged.
Lyle smirked at him. “You’re right Kevin, it won’t happen again. You’ve used up one too many chances. You were an asset, but has now quickly became a liability.” He paused an added, “It’s time I cut some losses of my own.” Aiming for Kevin’s head, Lyle fired the shot. Kevin’s body fell to the ground, eyes still wide open. Stepping over the body, Lyle ran down the hall, looking for Jarod, Miss Parker, and Broots.
XXXXXXXX
“Miss Parker!” Broots said, startled by her appearance.
“Broots!” exclaimed Miss Parker, letting out a huge sigh of relief.
Broots’ delight at seeing Miss Parker quickly vanished as he remembered where he was. “We have to get out of here. Lyle is the one behind everything,” he said rapidly.
Miss Parker gave him a baffled look. She was about to argue, but she could see the look in Broots’ eyes. He wasn’t lying. “Lead the way. I have no idea as to where I’m going.”
Turning on his heel, Broots led the way. “Wait,” he abruptly stopped. “Did you see Debbie anywhere in here?”
Miss Parker looked around nervously. “No, I haven’t.”
“I can’t leave yet, Miss Parker. I have to find her.” Looking down the hallway he commented, “To get out, just follow the hallway all the way down, take a right, then a left, head down the remaining hallway and you’ll be scott free.”
Miss Parker grabbed Broots by the upper arm, stopping him before he had a chance to run off. “I’m not leaving you down here by yourself.” She released the safety off the gun. “We’ll find her together.”
He shook his head up and down. “Thank you, Miss Parker. That means a lot.”
Flashing him a weak smile, she walked past him, starting the search for Debbie.
It didn’t take long to find Debbie’s room. When Broots saw Kevin lying in the doorway in a pile of blood, panic surged through him. Ignoring Miss Parker’s protests, he ran towards the room. Walking over the body, he went inside the room. There was no Debbie. Part of him was relieved, but the other part was even more frightened. Where was she?
Miss Parker came busting through a few seconds later. She found Broots looking around for any clues as to his daughter’s whereabouts. She could see the agitation on Broots’ face. In a fit of frustration, Broots ripped off the covers on the cot. Going over to the table, he lifted it up and flipped it over. She watched with sympathy as Broots lost his energy and fell to the ground. Putting his face in his hands he wept. “I can’t take this anymore. I can’t take this anymore,” he kept repeating through his muffled cries.
Miss Parker knelt down in front of Broots. “We can’t give up. I’ll be damned if I let Lyle win. Listen to me.” Reaching out, she lifted up his face. “Lyle won’t get away with this. WE WILL find her,” she said with determination.
Broots nodded his head up and down. Starting to feel foolish, he quickly swiped away the tears. Looking around the room again, something caught his eye. Scurrying over, he lifted the piece of paper up. He couldn’t stop the grin that came upon his face.
Miss Parker saw the smile grace his face. Now, she was confused. Getting up, she headed over. “What’s on the paper?” she asked.
“It says –fifty cent was here-,” he replied joyfully.
Miss Parker gave him a bewildered look. “What does that mean?”
“It means, that Jarod has Debbie. She’s safe.” Looking up at Miss Parker he said, “Let’s get out of here.”
Feeling a wave of triumph wash over her, she reached out and hugged Broots. Both were grateful that Debbie was safe and sound. A few tears ran down her face, but they were tears of joy. She looked at Broots, who was also going through the same emotions. Once they gained their composure, they headed out the door.
They knew there weren’t out of the woods yet. They still had the obstacle of Lyle to get over. There was an eerie silence that fell over the barn. The joy that Broots was once feeling was now quickly turning to dread. He just wanted to get out of here and see Debbie.
They made it to the stairs and climbed out. Miss Parker stepped out first, holding her gun out in front of her. She spun around, looking for anything out of the ordinary, but nothing jumped out at her. She glanced back to find Broots stepping out. “Ready?”
“Ready as I’ll ever be,” replied Broots.
With guns in hand, they ran across the hay-covered floor, towards the door. Both stopped dead in their tracks when Lyle came into view, blocking their way. “Well, if it isn’t dear old sis and her trusty nerdy sidekick,” he said with glee.
Miss Parker kept her gun trained on Lyle, who was also doing the same thing to her. “Lyle, it’s over. You know you won’t get away with this. Now move,” she commanded.
“I’m afraid I can’t do that sis,” he replied with mocked regret. “You see, you and your friend here need to die. I can’t let you both leave and start spreading nasty rumors about me.”
"Lyle, the only person who’s going to leave this building in a body bag will be you.” She spat out.
“Now, now Miss Parker. Let’s not get hasty. You know you won’t kill me, I know to many things. For instance, I know who put the order out on your beloved Tommy,” he said tauntingly.
“You son of a bitch!” she growled out.
“Now, is that any way to talk about our mother,” he commented with delight. “If your wondering about Debbie and Jarod, you’re too late. They’re already dead.”
“No!” Broots screamed out.
“Oh, yes indeed.” Lyle looked at his sister. He couldn’t hide the enjoyment that was radiating from him. “So, let’s see Miss Parker, what is that, four people you’ve lost because of your love for them.”
“I don’t love, Jarod.” Even she knew that was a lie.
Lyle shook his head sadly at her. “You can deny it all you want, but I know you love the lab rat.” He paused. “Do you ever wonder who suggested you be put on the Jarod pursuit team once he escaped, hmm?”
“My father did.”
Lyle laughed at the absurd answer. “Do you really think are old man and Mr. Raines thought of that, please? I’ve seen the DSA’s of you and Jarod when you were kids. I could see the bond was very strong between you two, and I couldn’t miss the opportunity of manipulating that bond. Here, Mr. Raines and good old Dad thought Sydney was the key to finding Jarod when in actuality it was you. You people are so easy to manipulate sometimes,” he said with confidence.
Miss Parker continued to glare at Lyle. “Lyle, if I know you, which I do, you would enjoy seeing me in pain. If you killed Jarod and Debbie like you said you did, then where are they? You would want to put them on display for everyone to see.” Now it was her turn to smile as she saw Lyle loose some of his confidence. “I’ve called your bluff, little brother. You have nothing and you know it.”
Lyle was becoming furious with himself, because once again he let his sister get the best of him. There was only one thing left for him to do. Throwing the gun to the side he dropped to his knees, and put his hands behind his back. “You win,” he simply said.
Miss Parker was suspicious of Lyle. She knew he had something up his sleeve. “What are you up to, Lyle?”
Lyle shrugged his shoulders in defeat. “I’m up to nothing. It’s time for me to realize I can’t win against you. So, come on, take me to the Triumverate, I know you want to.”
Miss Parker stood in place, keeping the gun on Lyle. Her attention was taken away from Lyle when she heard something to the side of her. Instantly realizing her mistake she looked back at Lyle. He was now on his feet; reaching behind his back he pulled out a gun and fired at her. She pulled the trigger on her gun a second later.
“No, Miss Parker!” she heard Broots shrieked, as he came running after her and tackled her to the ground. The last thing she saw before hitting her head on the ground was Lyle falling back, and the color of crimson blossoming on his white shirt.
XXXXXX
To Be Continued...
