Chapters 3 & 4

Chapter 3

Cole and Seraphina meet Christy in one of the few places still open in the airport.  Seraphina and Christy both order a glass of red wine.  Cole decided to play it safe and just orders a cup of coffee.  “Sorry ladies, I have to be ready for work tomorrow.”  They both laugh.  The three of them have a nice visit and Seraphina give Christy their new number for her to call if she is ever in town with some extra time and wants to get together.  Seraphina hugs her friend as they so their separate ways.  As Cole and Seraphina catch a cab to their house, Seraphina tells Cole, “She is a possibility of an outside contact we may need later.  Keep her face and name in the back of your mind.  She is a great person and would do anything to help a friend.  That’s why I agreed to get together, so we could build that relationship with her and see if she could totally be trusted.  I feel good about it.”

Cole is glad to hear Seraphina is always on alert. “Do you think we need an outside contact?  Is there a reason to be worried?”  Seraphina answers, “I always try to make contacts, especially with airline personnel when I am on a new mission.  You never know when you might need them to help get you out.  The agency can only do so much without compromising itself.” 

The cab pulls up in front of a beautiful two story house that by most standards would be a small mansion.  Seraphina and Cole are both surprised at the size and grandeur of it.  Usually the agency does not use big elaborate houses, but due to the nature of Cole’s job they had to make an exception.  As they walk to the front door, Cole pulls out the key the agency had hidden in the suitcase they picked up at the airport.  They walk in, tired but know there is no time to rest.  They need to check in and see what their next instructions are.  They both sit down on the couch and Cole pulls out the agency computer for a video conference with Michael. 

Michael is glad to hear they have made it safely.  He fills them in on some more mission details and give them instructions.  Before closing, he tells them “guys this is a dangerous and very important mission.  You both were not only chosen especially for this mission but also the cover has been specially set up for it as well.  Of all the missions you have been on, this is the most important.  Good Luck.”

With that Michael disappears from the screen.  Seraphina says, “Man sounds like he just put a lot of pressure on us both.”  Cole agrees, “Yeah, I better get a few hours sleep before I have to go to my new job as Chief of Operations.  I want to make a good impression.  Can you finish setting up?

“Sure, I’ll finish.  You get some rest.  There are three bedrooms upstairs and a master suite.  We can each take one of the three and only use the master if people come by.  That way we won’t be in the same room until necessary for our cover.  You can take whichever one you want.  And I’ll take one later when I finished setting up.  Each room has its out bathroom as well.”

Cole smiles and takes his things upstairs.  He explores all the rooms.  He finds the master closet fully stocked with clothes for both him and Phiny.  He pulls out a nice suit to wear the next day and takes it to the room he chooses. 

Cole woke up before dawn.  He instantly knew something was wrong.  He sat straight up, looked around and listened carefully.  He quietly pulled his gun from the drawer beside the bed.  He had gotten in the habit of keeping it close.  Sometimes he even kept it under his pillow.

He softly crept across the floor to the door.  He saw a very dim light shining downstairs.  He checked both ways and crossed the hallway.  He carefully and quietly made his way down the steps.  He peeked into the kitchen where he saw someone going through the cabinets.  He took a deep breath, spun around the corner and stuck the gun to the back of the person’s head.  “Who sent you?” he shouted.  The lady screamed. “What?  No one! “came a panicked reply.  “State your business!”  Cole stated as he pressed the gun harder.

“Sir, I just work here!  Please don’t shoot.”  Phiny had heard the commotion and ran into the kitchen.  “Donavan, what’s going on?”  Cole grabs the lady by the arm and spins her around and presses the gun to her forehead.  “I caught this intruder.”

Phiny walks over to the lady, “do you have your papers?”  The lady slowly pulls out her papers and hands them to Phiny.  Phiny pulls out her pocket computer and types in the name.  In a few seconds a message comes up.  Phiny reads it, then holds the computer up for Cole to read.  The message is from Michael stating that the women that Cole is pointing his gun at is Chloe.  Chloe was sent by the agency to be the maid for Donavan and Seraphina Maloney.  Cole slowly lowers his gun.

“I am so sorry Chloe.  Please forgive me.”  Chloe takes a deep breath stares at Cole then cracks a smile.  “It’s ok Mr. Maloney.  I would have done the same thing.”

Cole smiles, “Still I am truly sorry.  How did you get in and what are you doing?”

“I have a key.”  She holds it up. “I was looking for a pan to start breakfast but this kitchen is so unorganized I can’t find anything.  I was trying to organize things.  I guess I made too much noise.”

Cole uncocks his gun, “It almost got you shot.  Anyway I have work to do.  So, after your heart stops pounding, please continue.”  He walks out of the kitchen and into the office where Phiny has most of the equipment set up.  He decides to call Michael on the secure phone just to confirm Chloe.  He has learned not to trust anyone, especially those closet to him.

It takes Michael several rings to answer.  Finally Cole hears, “Michael 1427,” a pause and then the familiar voice.  “Everything alright Cole?”

Cole laughs, “I think so, but what’s up with this Chloe?”

“She’s there already?”  Michael asks

“Yes but I almost shot her,” Cole confesses.  “Why didn’t you tell us she was coming?”

Michael sighs, “She wasn’t supposed to arrive for another few hours.  Are you sure its her?”

Cole sits silently for a moment.  “Do you have reason to believe it may not be her?”  Cole can hear Michael typing into his computer. 

“Like I said,” Michael continues, “she wasn’t supposed to be there for another few hours and she is supposed to check in with me before she enters the house.  Did you see her papers?”

Cole answers, “Phiny did and punched them into the computer and showed me a message from you stating who she was.”

There is silence on the line.  Cole knows this cannot be good.  Finally Michael speaks.  “Cole who set up the communications and security systems at the house?”

“Phiny finished them up last night,” Cole replies.  “Why?”

Silence again.  “Did she have access to your pocket device or cell phone?”

Cole now starting to see where this is going.  “No they were locked up per protocol.”

Without hesitation Michael answers, “Cole get them, your papers and your gun.  Get out of the house, at least 2 miles away from there or the building you are to report to for work.  Do several car changes and public transit to ensure you are not followed.  Then contact me.  Just tell Phiny I told you to go into the office early. Go ASAP.  Michael 1427.”  The call ends.

Cole’s heart is racing.  He knew it, just when he thought he could trust Seraphina, it seems she is double crossing him.  He is mad at himself for letting his emotions get it the way.  He hurries upstairs, gets dressed, grabs his gun, pocket device and papers.  He goes downstairs where Seraphina is still in the kitchen helping Chloe organize the cabinets.   “Phiny, Michael says I need to go to the office early.  I will see you later.”

Phiny is totally surprised. “What?  Why?”

Cole sees her surprise.  “I don’t know.  I am just following orders.”

Phiny still stunned, “Well um, hang let me get dressed.  I was planning on riding with you.  You know show myself as the supportive wife on the first day.  It will only take me a few minutes.”

Cole grabs her arm.  “I can’t wait.  Michael said I have to leave now.  He thinks our target is making a big move and wants me to check it out.  I can’t wait.”

Seraphina looks at him, then a Chloe and back at Cole, “ But wait.”

Cole interrupts, “I can’t.  I must go now.”  He kisses her check and leaves the house.  Luckily the taxi he called was waiting.  He jumps in and the driver, “to the airport and quickly.”  The taxi speeds off.

After using five different modes of transportation, Cole is finally on the outskirts of the city.  He is six miles from the house and 5 miles from the office building.  He gets off the bus at a corner coffee shop.  He hangs out on the corner just to make sure he is not followed.

Finally he goes is and finds a table in the back corner where he can watch everyone and see the door.  He takes out his phone and calls Michael.  After the usual procedure to get a secure connection, Cole asks, “Michael, what is going on here?”

Michael takes a deep breath, “Cole I never sent Phiny a message about Chloe.  Since we last spoke, I contacted the real Chloe and she is not at the house yet.  I stopped him from going.  I have also made sure we can see and have access to all the equipment in the house so we know what is going on.  We believe Phiny is a double agent.  I didn’t want to tell you but we have suspected it for a long time.  We believe she has orders to take either you or someone in the agency down.  Cole you have a couple of choices here.  We can either get you out and figure out another way to bring down the guy you were meant to get or you can stay and get him but we would get Phiny out or we keep you in to take down this guy and you try and expose and take down Seraphina.  Be advised, with option three she might also be trying to take you down.  I need and answer Cole.”

There is a long pause.  Finally Cole speaks.  “Michael, do you even have to ask what my answer is.  You know me better than anyone.  You and I both know what has to be done.”

Michael chuckles, “Ok Cole, but please be careful and keep your eye on Seraphina.  If you need to take her out, do it! Now you better get to the office before your wife starts to worry.  Michael 1427.”  The line does dead and Cole gets a taxi to his office to report for his new job.

“Mr. Lawrence, I am excited to be here,” Cole says as he finally meets his new boss. 

Mr. Lawrence greets Cole and welcomes him to the office.  “This is my best assistant.  He will show you around Mr. Maloney.  Then I will meet you in your new office to talk about expectations.  Please enjoy the tour and pay close attention.”  Cole nods as Mr. Lawrence leaves.

The assistant steps up, “Mr. Maloney, I am Han.  Here is a fresh cup of coffee.  Please follow me.”  Cole takes a small sip of very strong coffee.  It is so strong and bitter it takes him by surprise.  He thanks Han and tries to keep up. 

Chapter 4

After a quick breakfast, Phiny sits down in the office and punches buttons on the teleconference computer.  After a brief pause, Michael appears.  “Good morning Seraphina.”

Phiny finishes her coffee, “Michael, what is the deal? He just went running out of here like a mad man.”

Michael signs, “yes and I am sorry about that.  We got information early this morning of a big shipment getting ready to leave and we needed to get him in there as soon as possible.  Now I need to ask you a very important question.  Did you wash your hands after breakfast?”

Seraphina without hesitation says, “Yes, I closed up shop.”

Michael continues, “What soap did you use?”

Again Phiny does not hesitate, “that was my favorite book.”

Michael feels a huge weight lifted off his shoulders.  “Phiny, send Chloe to the market on 7^th Street for a loaf of fresh pumpkin bread in 15 minutes.  Tell her its Donavan’s favorite.  After she is has been gone for 15 minutes, call me on the secure phone.”  With that the screen goes black.

Phiny gets up to get more coffee and finds Chloe still organizing the kitchen.  She pours her coffee, checks her watch and walks to the pantry.  “Chole, do we have any pumpkin bread?”

Chloe washing the breakfast dishes, “No ma’am, why?”

Phiny walks out of the pantry.  “I was hoping to have some when Donavan got home as a surprise.  It is his favorite.”

Chloe finished the dishes.  “I can make some but it would my first.”

Phiny takes a drink of coffee.  “I am sure if would be fine but I heard that market on 7^th Street has fantastic Pumpkin bread.  Could you run down there and get some?”

Chloe takes her apron off, “certainly ma’am.  I’ll go right away. “

Seraphina cannot believe what Michael just told her.  How could she make such a mistake as to let an impostor into the mission?  She hoped that she had not yet had time to get any information out.  She had to be confident if she had that the team that was waiting on her at the market to her out, would take care of things.  Worst yet, how would she get Donavan to trust her again.  She knew Michael had shared the suspicion that she was a mole.  How would he treat her now?

Cole was on his way to the house when Michael called on the secure phone.  “These are your new security codes.  Memorize them.  We do not believe that the impostor Chloe got information out but obviously we are taking every precaution.  I promise you this will not happen again Cole,” Michael confidently finished.

Cole still feeling a bit uneasy, “What about Phiny?  IS she still a suspected…” Michael cut him off.

“Stick to your instincts kid.  Only let her know what know what you need to.  We cannot be sure.”

As the car pulled into the drive, Cole took a deep breath.  He just sat in the car for a minute to compose and calm himself.  He had to act as if nothing had changed.  When he felt confident, he grabbed his briefcase and slide out of the back of the black sedan.  The driver was already out wiping the near spotless car.  Cole smiled at him.

“Keeping her clean Mr. Maloney.  Always want her at her best.”  Cole just smiled and waved as he opened the front door of the house. 

“Honey, I’m home,” Cole yells as he sits down his briefcase and loosens his tie. 

Phiny appears from the kitchen, “Hello dear.  How was your first day?”, she asks as she kisses his cheek.

“It was great.  I am really going to enjoy things,” Cole says as he makes a sniffing sound.  “What’s that wonderful smell?”

“Oh, Chloe is making dinner,” Chloe answers.  “But you still have about 45 minutes to wait.  Come join our chat in the kitchen,” she says walking back that way.

Cole is surprised, “Chloe is still here? I thought she was…” Phiny stopped him mid-sentence.

“The real one.  She arrived just before lunch.  Come meet her.”  Cole was skeptical after what happened this morning but knew he had to put his mind at ease.  He walked into the kitchen and introduced himself.

Chloe was a middle aged British lady.  She was very polite.  Cole made small talk as he pretended to look for a glass.  Finally he asked, “Ok Chloe where did you hide the glasses?  I need some water.” 

Chloe laughed and walked to the cabinet above the sink.  “Here you are sir,” as she handed him a glass.  Cole was careful how he grabbed it.

“Thank you.  Guess I’ll have to learn your system,” he said as he poured the water. 

She smiled, “Very simple.  I’ll show you after dinner.”

He took a drink.  “Sounds good.  Now I have some work to do before dinner.  I’ll be in the office.  You girls go on with your chat.”  As he walked out, he leaned over and kissed Phiny’s cheek.  She blushed.

Cle carefully set the glass on the desk and took out his pocket device.  He quickly scanned the area where Chloe held the glass.  It quickly picked up a full finger print.  HE punched in the special code and it brought up Chloe’s picture and information.  He began reading it as his secure phone rang.  He answered, “Donavan 37639.”

 He waited for the connection then heard Michael’s voice chuckling, “Yes Cole this is the correct Chloe.  Sorry I meant to tell you when I called but since you were in the company car I didn’t want to risk it being bugged.  Be aware that your office and company car may both be bugged”

Cole relaxed, “ok good.  I just wanted to make sure after this morning.  So, if I need to talk to you during the day how do I contact you?”

“Glad you asked.  There are actually several ways.  In the morning, I will call your office phone as Hanson Musteen, a data engineer in charge of local operations.  The company will expect you to befriend local data engineers to help with local issues.  I will introduce myself and give you information on how to contact me.  If you just have some general questions you may contact me that way talking in the mission code.  If you need more specific information you must move the plant from the left window to the right window.  I will either call you and ask for a meeting as a place far enough away they cannot pick up your secure devices or I will send a messenger to your office.  You will know he is from he because he will hand you a red sharpened pencil and ask what you want for lunch.  Write your message on the legal pad in your briefcase and seal it in the envelope with the pencil inside.  You will receive and answer in an hour or less.  He again will hand you a red sharpened pencil and my answer sealed in an envelope with a blue unsharpened pencil.  Read it and shred it.  Give him the pencils back.  If there is an emergency, remove the plant completely and follow protocol.”

Cole sighed, “I don’t like the sound of all of this.  Too much room for error and problems.”

Michael pauses, “I know but it’s the only way for now.  We can’t be sure that they don’t have monitoring devices.  We are trying to work out a better way.  Remember kid, keep you guard up especially with…”

Cole interrupted, “I’ll be ok Michael.”  Cole hated the reminder that Phiny might be a double agent.  

Michael continues,” So far everything looks good but we know there is a mole somewhere.  We just have to find them.  Anything else?”

Cole thinks, “No Donavan good.”

Michael continues, “Good, Michael 1427.” The line goes dead.

Cole slips the phone in his pocket, leans back in his chair and finishes his water.  He closes his eyes to think.  Chloe’s knock on the door startles him. 

“Dinner is served, Mr. Maloney.”

“Thank you Chloe.  I’ll be right there.” Cole closes down the communication center and heads to the dining room.

While they are eating dinner, the none secure house phone rings.  Chloe answers, “Maloney residence.”  She pauses, “Yes she is but she is in the middle of dinner, could I take a message?”  She writes down the note.  “Yes ma’am.  I’ll be sure she receives it.  Thank you for calling.”

Cole looks up and smiles.  He is very pleased with the way Chloe handled the situation. He enjoys being a part of the upper class even if it is just a cover.

Chloe hangs up the phone and places the message on the table beside Phiny.  “Thank you Chloe and terrific job on the phone. I am impressed.”

Cole pipes up, “Yes me too.  I am glad we have one less thing to worry about.”

Chloe begins to clear the empty dishes. “Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Maloney.”  Cole and Phiny look at each other and smile.  They like the sound of that.

Phiny finally picks up the message and reads it.  “Oh, it’s from Christy.  She is going to be in town tomorrow on a 12 hour layover and wants to get together.  She is coming in on the red eye and wants to have brunch the next day at the café we were at the other night.  I will call her and tell her I’ll be there.  If that’s ok with you honey,” as she looks at Cole.

He smiles, “Of course.  Any girl talk that I am not part of is good with me.  After James drives me to work, I’ll have him come back and take you to the airport.”  Phiny smiles, kisses him and goes to return the call.

Cole grabs her arm as he stands, “You aren’t getting off that easy,” he says as he embraces her and kisses her deeply.  

At first Phiny is rigid but soon she begins to embrace him too.  She then pushes him away.  Before he releases her, he sees a twinkle in her eyes, smiles and lets her go.

After Phiny leaves, Cole sits back down.  He knew he shouldn’t have kissed her like that but he couldn’t resist.  Cole was afraid of what was happening.  He knew things would only get harder.  After Chloe finished the dishes and left, Cole began to pray that God would guide him and help him keep his mind on his mission and not let things with Phiny get out of control.  He then went to the library to pray and read his Bible in private.

Cole had been praying and studying his Bible for over an hour before Phiny interrupted.

“There you are.  Is everything alright?”

Cole smiles, “Yes.  Just haven’t had much time to read lately so I was just catching up.”

Phiny walks over to his chair and up the book he is holding.  The front cover is the classic book A Tale of Two Cities.  She opens is to the first page and begins to read.  Cole sits uneasy in his chair not sure how she will react.  Phiny reads aloud.  “In beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth.”

She stops, looks at Cole and sees his uneasiness.  She closes the book and hands is back.  “This is my favorite book too.”

Cole looks at her and smiles as he takes the undercover Bible back.  As he does, Phiny shows him the book in her hand.  The cover says, Great Expectations but as Cole opens it he realizes that it is a Bible as well.  He invites her to sit down.

Phiny sat down across from him.  “So how long have you been a follower of Christ Donavan?”

Cole pulls his chair closer to hers.  “Well, I was born in the church, literally.  My mother gave birth to me in the back room behind the baptistery. 

Phiny laughs, “Wow true church baby, huh?”

Cole chuckles, “Yes that’s what the doctor said.  Anyway, I gave my life to Christ at church camp when I was 10 and have done my best to follow Him ever since.  I truly believe He is why I am here.  What about you Phiny?”

Phiny gets comfortable in her chair.  “My life was quite different than yours.  No one in my family ever went to church.  When I was in high school, I got into drugs.  I flunked out, was arrested and sent to rehab.  One of my counselors was a wonderful Christian lady.  She helped me get clean and finish high school and even get into college.  She taught me about Jesus and I gave my life to him in the garden at the rehab center when I was 19.  If it weren’t for that lady and Christ, I’d probably be in jail or dead.”

Cole sat stunned at her story.  His younger sister Mary had rebelled against the family and had a similar experience.  He told Phiny about it.  After he finished, they prayed together.  They thanked God for saving them and asked that He be with them on this mission and help them complete it according to His will. 

After the prayer, they just sat and talked for hours.  They were lost in conversation until about 4AM when the communication computer started ringing.  They both rushed into the office to answer.

As soon as they saw the screen, they panicked.  EMERGENCY ALERT!  Cole typed in the code and Michael appeared.  “Sorry guys.  Emergency status C.  Follow protocol.  Mr. Lawrence has been taken captive.  Luckily his family was at the safe house.  You guys need to go get them and get them out of the country.  Pack up essentials.  Check the Com center into suite cases just as they were given to you.  Donavan, you need to do this while Phiny goes to secure the family.  At the airport you will meet an agent to give you alias papers for the family and you will pick up a suitcase at baggage claim that has clothes for them. You will then meet up with Phiny and the family at the safe house.  Then quickly get them out.  Make sure you watch your back and be alert especially at the airport.  They will the looking for the family.  It is imperative that you get them out safely and without suspicion.  If you need anything, you will have you secure cells and pocket devices.  You have less than 3 hours to get out.  We are trying to get information as to Mr. Lawrence’s whereabouts.  Phiny, while you are waiting on Donavan, talk to the wife and the oldest children and get any information.  The 2 younger children hopefully don’t understand what is going on.  I will send you the secret code word for the secure house while you are on the way.  Any questions?”

“No sir,” they both said in unison.

“Good!  Get going, time is ticking.”  The compute shuts off. 

Cole and Phiny get everything packed up just as Michael said.  There were two taxis waiting in the drive.  They put all the bags going to the airport in the Cole’s taxi.  Cole walked Phiny over to her taxi.  As he opened the door, he leaned in and kissed her.  “Be safe,” he said.

“I’ll see you soon,” Phiny smiled.  “Donavan, that’s not necessary now.”

Cole smiled, “I know, just habit.  But I do mean the be careful part.”

Phiny smiled and got into the taxi.  Cole closes the door and quickly gets in his and they both head out.

Phiny had very strict instructions to get to the safe house.  They needed to make sure she was not followed.  She changed vehicles four times and had to walk the last three blocks.  Carrying bags of a few things Michael had messaged her to get along the way, she walked down the street to a small established neighborhood.  It was a nice quiet, family neighborhood.  She turned up the street to the safe house and carefully checked for anyone watching or following her.  Three houses away she crossed to the correct side of the street.  She stopped just before the safe house and pretended to tie her shoe while she made one last survey of the neighborhood and let Michael know she was about to enter.

At exactly 6AM, Phiny grabbed the shopping bags, walked up the front steps, and rang the doorbell.  After a few moments a face appeared in the small butler window on the door. 

“May I help you ma’am?” he said.

“Yes, I have a delivery for Mr. Boscoe.”

The man replies, “What is the total?”

Phiny replies, “The chef sends it with his congratulations.”

The man quickly closes the window and Phiny hears the sounds of multiple locks being unlatched and the door slowly opens.

Phiny quickly enters and the man closes the door behind her.  As he beings to relock everything, a lady approaches Phiny.  “Hello ma’am.  The family is secure in the cellar.  Follow me.”  Phiny follows her to a steel door where she punches in a code and the door slides open. The lady introduces herself.  “By the way, my name is Dorothy.”

Phiny answers, “Yes Michael said you would be one of the security agents.  Where is your partner?”

Dorothy answers, “Timothy is downstairs with the family.”

As Dorothy ushers Phiny down the stairs, Phiny tells her, “I brought something for them to eat.  I am sure they are hungry.”

“They will be glad for that,” Dorothy replies.  “We woke the older ones up about an hour ago to get ready.  Timothy was going to wake the younger ones up when the door told us we were here.  They should all be ready to eat.”

Dorothy takes the food and hands them to Timothy while she introduces Phiny to the family.  “This is Phiny.  She is one of the ones in charge of getting you out safely. Phiny, this is Mrs. Lawrence and her 4 children.” Phiny greets them as Dorothy continues.  “I explained the situation to the mother and the two older children.  The two younger will not understand.   They already know their new names and we have practiced the last few hours using them.”

Phiny smiles, “Great!  Soon we will have papers for them all and a change of clothes.  Let’s have them eat first and then they all can change.  Isn’t there are third agent posing as the husband and father?”

Dorothy ushers the family to the table.  “Yes, you have already met him.  He was at the door.  He has been getting to know the family and they him.  They all seem natural together.  He spends the day shift with the family so the children get use to him.  Since there is only 3 of us, we go in 8 hour shifts between family, doorman, and sleeping.  We figured he would be with them on the day shifts and that’s just how it worked out.”

Phiny was glad everything was going well.  She sat down to eat and talk with the family as Timothy left to relieve the agent at the door so he could eat with the family.  As he sat down beside Mrs. Lawrence, she smiled at him.

“Hello Jeremiah.  How are you this morning?”

Jeremiah smiled back, “I am well Abigail, how are you?”

Phiny was glad to seeing them getting along and using the proper cover names.  As they finished breakfast, they talked about the journey ahead.  Along with Abigail was her 12 year old son Henry, her 8 year old daughter Teresa, almost 3 year old son Isaac and the youngest, 9 month old daughter Laura.  As Phiny looked at each one, she began to realize both how important and difficult the ahead of them would be.

“Donavan is here,” came a call over the radio as Phiny and Dorothy cleared the table.  The family quickly started the change as Phiny greeted Cole.  She then introduced him to Dorothy and the family.  Donavan quickly briefed everyone on the last information as Phiny gave them the needed papers.

Cole and Phiny were still posing as newlyweds in public places.  Dorothy was traveling as a journalist and Timothy was posing as a research professor.  The plan was to make it look as if they were all traveling separately while actually traveling together.

The Lawrence family was traveling as the Pearson’s, a couple and their four children moving to be closer to their extended family.

As they were all preparing to leave, Phiny’s secure phone rang.  She answers and waits for connection.  Finally she hears Michael.

“Phiny, did you have an appointment to meet with your friend Christy today for brunch?”

“Yes,” she answers.  “But that doesn’t matter now.”

Michael replies, “It is important that you keep that appointment.  We will push back the family leaving.  They will probably think we will try to get them out early away so might be better.  If you don’t keep that appointment, someone might suspect something.  It will be safer this way.”

Phiny seems surprised but agrees to go, “Yes sir I will.”  The call ends.

Chapter 2

CHAPTER 2

Cole crosses the street just as Seraphina gets out of the taxi.  She does not see him as he rushes up beside her.  “Hey, Phiny.  Perfect timing.”  He offers her his arm and escorts her into the café. Seraphina asks the attendant for a secluded table in the back.  He tells her that is not possible.  She tells him they are on their honeymoon and slips him a nice big tip.  He smiles and leads them to a table in the back room of the café where no one else in seated.  As he leaves he stops a waiter and speaks to him while pointing in Cole and Seraphina’s direction.  The waiter smiles, nods and they both disappear.

Cole looks at Seraphina, quickly grabs her hand and says, “I am so glad I married you honey.”  She blushes, “That’s our cover in case Michael didn’t tell you, at least for now.  Sorry I couldn’t tell you earlier but I had to wait until I confirmed it was you.  I couldn’t do that until you asked me to dinner in those specific words. 

Just as she finishes, she sees the waiter coming towards them she quickly gets quite.  The waiter speaks, “here is a bottle of our finest champagne, compliments of the house for the happy couple.”  Cole and Seraphina thank the waiter as he ours them a glass and puts the bottle in the ice bucket.  “Are we ready to order?”  They both order and the waiter disappears again.  Seraphina movers closer to Cole.  “I know this might seem strange but if our cover is that we are newlyweds, we are going to have to act like it in public.”  Cole thinks for a moment, looks a Seraphina and says, “You mean like this?”  He leans in and gives her a nice long kiss.  When they finish, Cole looks at Seraphina who seems totally stunned.  She catches her breath and finally says with a smile, “Yes that will work!”

“Now,” she continues.  “I have some details for you about our mission.”  She pulls out her pocket computer.  “Here is our target,” she says as she shows Cole a picture of a gentleman.  “This is his family.  They are not to be harmed and we will eventually get them out.  We must first gather information that we believe he has.  He runs a major transport company.  You will breech his company as his new Chief of Operations in the Data Department.  He will mention a job opening for me as well about being his nannie.  When he does, you will give him what will be our home phone number for his wife to call me.  That is my way in.  I will get access to records at his house.  We are posing as a newlywed couple who just moved to the area, Donavan and Seraphina Maloney from Paris.

He has an outpost company there that you are transferring from.  We will get more information as to what to look for later.”  She looks up and sees the waiter coming with their food.  Seraphina slips her computer back into her pocket and leans over and kisses Cole.  They continue to kiss until the waiter interrupts them.  “Ah, young love.  There is nothing like it.”  He serves their dinner and refills the few sips of champagne they took.  “I will check on you in a few minutes.  Enjoy” he says as he leaves.

As they begin eating, Cole asks, “So where are we going for this mission?”  Seraphina takes a sip of Champagne, “We have to go to Rome.  We have a red-eye tonight so you can report for work tomorrow.  We will each have a bag to pick up in baggage claim that has things we will need.”  Seraphina looks at her watch.  “Our plane leaves in 3 hours.  So, we need to eat, get our things and head to the airport.  As you see, I brought my things with me so I will go with you back to your hotel to get your things then we can head to the airport.  Did you get all of the sweetheart?”

Cole was just staring at Seraphina as she talked. “Huh? What? Oh yes.  I got it dear.”  Seraphina laughs, “Are you ok?”  Cole shakes his head as if he is shaking out the cob webs.  “Huh? Oh yeah I am fine.  Sorry I was just thinking about how lucky I am to have a wife as beautiful and smart as you.”  Seraphina blushes, “Thank you but no one is around.  You don’t have to say stuff like that right now.

Cole takes her hand.  “I am not just saying it.  I am being honest.  I have been thinking about it since we first meet in the airport and talked on the plane before I ever knew we’d be working together.  It was very hard for me not to blow my cover several times just talking to you.  I had to really focus.”  Seraphina looks at him, “actually I did too.  SO much in fact I gave you the newspaper before I was supposed to, just hoping you would get up to receive the message just so I could compose myself.  I wasn’t supposed to give it to you until right before we landed.”

Cole is somewhat stunned, “Wow, I have a feeling this is going to be very easy and very difficult all at the same time, if you know what I Mean.”  Seraphina laughs, “Yes I certainly do and I agree.”  She kisses him as the waiter returns.  He clears their empty plates.  “The chef asked me to give you his congratulations and the dinner is on him.  You may stay as long as you wish.  Is there anything else,” he asks as he refills their glasses with the last bit of champagne. 

Cole thanks him and says they are fine.  He thanks the waiter and hands him a nice tip.  The waiter wishes them the best and leaves.  Cole turns to Seraphina, “wow that was very nice.  I think I am going to like this cover if we get service like that.”  Seraphina smiles, “I agree.  We should get going now so we can get to the airport.”  Cole and Seraphina walk hand in hand back across the street to Cole’s room before heading to the airport.

As they board their flight, it is well past dark outside.  Cole and Seraphina are pulling off their role as a newlywed couple so well that everyone around them smile and some even comment about how sweet young love is.  As the plane lifts off the ground, Cole takes Seraphina by the hand and whispers, “I have never broken an agency rule before but I am afraid we are both in danger of breaking the cardinal rule about not getting to close to anyone.  We need to focus and work hard to not allow that to happen.”  Seraphina answers, “I have been thinking about that since dinner.  Knowing that we can trust each other is important but so is not letting our emotions get the best of us.  Hopefully when the mission gets going our training and instincts will take over and help us keep emotions in check but not so much that we don’t come off as a couple.  We still have to make it believable.  We just have to keep reminding ourselves of the mission.  It will be hard but it has to be done.”

Cole is stunned by her answer.  “Yes I agree.  Just needed to know you were up for this.”  Seraphina smiles as they both try to get some sleep.  They both have been up for several days and once the mission starts, sleep may be hard to come by.

The captain announcing they are making their decent startles Cole awake.  He looks in the seat next to him to see if Seraphina was awake only to find it empty.  He looked around to find her.  He finally spots her in the forward galley talking to a flight attendant.  Cole panics.  Had he let his emotions get the better of him?  Had he let his guard down?  Was Seraphina blowing the whistle or worse plotting against him?  He had to find out.

He took a moment to calm himself.  He carefully gets up.  Luckily Seraphina’s back was to him.  He walked right up behind her, threw his arms around her and kissed her cheek, “Hey sweetie, thanks for letting me sleep.  I really needed it.”  Seraphina turned and kissed him, “You’re welcome babe.  I couldn’t sleep so I got up to talk to Christie here.  We have worked together several times and always had fun together.  Christie, this is my Donavan.”  Cole sticks out his hand, “Nice to meet you, Christie.”  Christie shakes his hand and smiles, “You too Donavan.  Seraphina was just telling me about you and how you guys met.  I knew she was seeing someone but had no idea it was this serious.  You got a great gal, and the ring is gorgeous.”  Cole smiles, “Oh she’s not great.  She’s the best.  As for the ring, it had to be a gorgeous ring for a gorgeous lady.  Although it hardly compares to her.”  He leans over and kisses Seraphina.  “Wow Phiny,” Christie replies, “You got a good one.  Now you two better get seated.  We are landing soon.  Hey, I don’t have another flight for several more hours.  I know it’s late but do you guys want to get a drink or something?”  Seraphina looks at Cole, “Sure we’d love to but a short one.  Donavan has to report to his new job tomorrow and we want him to make a good impression.”  They agree on where to meet and Christie says she will be there as soon as she finishes post flight.

Cole and Seraphina take their seats for landing.  Cole leans in to Seraphina and asks, “So what did you tell her about how we met.”  Seraphina smiles, “I told her the truth exactly how we met the today but made it sound like it was several months ago and that you were based in Zurich and we got together as often as we could.  I said that you were being transferred and asked me to go with you and we got married.”  Cole smiles, “OK, I just wanted to know in case someone asks me so we’d be on the same page.  What’s this ring she was talking about?  I never knew you had one.”  Seraphina laughs, “Oh the agency made sure we had some so it would look authentic, see”  She holds up her hand and shows Cole a beautiful 1 ½ carat princess cut diamond with a diamond inlay band.  He smiles, “Wow I did do pretty good, but why so elaborate?”  “Well,” She replies.  “Your supposed job has you earning well into the six figures so they wanted to make sure that I had a ring to match.  I think it’s beautiful but too much for an agent.  I have to wear it.  Oh I almost forgot,” She pulls a small envelope out of her pocket.  “Here this is yours.”  She slides out another diamond inlayed band for Cole.  “You have to wear it.”  Cole looks at it and slips it on his finger.  “Guess it’s official now honey.”  Seraphina laughs and Cole takes her hand just as the wheels touch the runway.  “I guess so she answers.”

Chapter 1

Well folks here it is.  Some of you have asked for and waited patiently.  Others don't even know I had a first novel.  But alas, here it is. THE MISSION -- My 2nd Novel in Blog form.  ENJOY!!!

I am sure there are typos in the chapters hat follow as I have not got back and edited.  Sorry!  If you find them just over look them.  FEEDBACK IS ALWAYS WELCOME!!!

Chapter 1
Cole tucked the book into his inner coat pocket.  He was hoping they would not do a thorough search.  If they found it his entire mission could be compromised.  He had to protect his true identity and the identity of those that had been helping him.  They were risking death if they were even suspected of helping him.  Cole knew he also could be killed just for being there.  He had to keep his cover and his wits about him.  Failure was not an option.
Cole was born in a small East Texas town.  His mother was a nurse and his father owned the local feed store.  In the 1970’s feed stores were a way of life and so was farming, at least in east Texas.  Cole was born the youngest of three children and as the only boy, took responsibility at a young age.  As he stood there waiting his turn, Cole thought about the story he had been told growing up.
It was Mother’s Day 1978 and as usual the entire Connor family was sitting on the third pew from the back at the local church.  There was six year old Suzy, the oldest, Mary the younger three year old, father Matt and mother Hazel who was just over 8 months pregnant with child number three.
Just as the pastor finished reading the scripture and was starting to pray, Hazel had a terrible pain.  She learned over to Matt and whispered, “It’s time.”  He didn't hear her.  She grabbed his hand and squeezed, trying not to scream out.  Again through gritted teeth she said, “It’s time.”  Matt still didn't hear her.  Just as the pastor said, “Amen,” she felt a contraction and her water broke.  The service had ended and Hazel screamed, “It’s time!”
Everyone looked at her for a moment before they realized what was happening.  Someone rushed out to get Doc Hicks who had slipped out the door before the commotion. He grabbed his bag out of his car and rushed back in.  He examined Hazel and realized she would not make it to the hospital.  He joked to Hazel and Matt, “this is going to be a true church baby.”
They quickly and carefully moved Hazel to the back room by the baptistery, where the pastor’s wife had prepared a nice soft pallet of blankets and towels to lie on.  As soon as she lay down, Doc hicks told her to push.  This being her third child, Hazel knew the routine and the baby was coming quickly.
A couple of good pushes and Cole Matthew Connor entered the world.  As soon as the baby was out, Hazel felt strange.  She knew something was wrong.  “Doctor, something’s wrong,” she yelled.  Doctor Hicks handed the baby to Matthew and turned back to Hazel.  “What is it Hazel”, He asked.  “I have a strange feeling, like more contractions.”  As the doctor looked, he could see another baby.  “Hazel, there’s another one coming, but I see a foot not a head.  It’s breech.  This might get rough.  Stay with me.  Someone go call an ambulance.”
That was a sad day for the entire community and even though Cole didn't remember it, he always cried and felt an emptiness when he thought about it.  He doesn't know what made him think about it now.  It was not a good time to cry and draw attention to himself, not at a checkpoint.  He had to quickly change his thoughts and gain his composer. The only way he could do that was to think about how happy he was not to have lost his mother on that day.  Although the baby that was to be Cole’s younger twin did not survive, his mother did.  They were very close to losing her too during the breech birth but she pulled through.  Cole knew that it was God’s plan that he and his mother survive.  He also knew he was now fulfilling, at least part of that plan.  This made him smile and he was able to continue through the checkpoint.
He stepped to the gate for his turn as the solider said to him, “Documents, Sir.”  Cole handed him several pieces of paper.  The solider examined the papers for what seemed like an eternity.  He then looked at strangely at Cole, “You've had some journey my friend, Welcome Home.”  Cole smiled and nodded as he took his papers back from the solider.  He thought it strange that the solider would say that and in almost perfect English.  It wasn't the broken English he had become accustomed to.
As he walked through the checkpoint area and back out into the bright sun, Cole looked down at his papers.  There was an extra small piece of paper tucked in with his documents.  He read it carefully, “Fly 7381 Zurich 7C.”  He immediately knew why the solider had perfect English.  He was a plant, put there to give Cole this message.  He turned and peered back through the area to where the soldier had been standing, only to see a different solider standing in his place.  Cole smiled and headed out.
As he approached the ticket counter, a beautiful blonde clerk smiled at him.  “And where are we headed today, sir?” Cole smiled back, Zurich on the 2:10 please.”  She smiled again, “Certainly, 7381 to Zurich.  Window or Aisle?”  Cole thought for a moment.  “Aisle please.”  The clerk punched a few buttons as Cole handed her his papers.  “The only aisle I have available is first class row 7.”  Cole smiled.  “That’s fine, more leg room.”  The clerk laughed.  “That it is.  So seat 7C it is.  WE should be boarding in about 10 minutes at gate 5 right through those doors.  Would you like to check your bag or carry on?’’  “Carry on please.”  The clerk smiled.  “Very well.  Here you go.”  Cole thanks her as he gets his documents and ticket.  He smiles at her one last time and walks through the doors to gate 5.
Cole sits down in his seat just as the flight attendants are starting the announcements.  He looks around and notices all the people around him, wondering which might be his informant.  Everyone seems so preoccupied that he finds it strange that they might be it.  He notices a man a few rows up just staring out the window.  He is thinking that might be him just as the flight attendant asks if he wants a drink.  “Just water please,” Cole tells her.  Just as she leaves, Cole sees a somewhat familiar face coming toward him.
She smiles at him.  “Well hello there Mr. Aisle Please.”  He smiles back.  “Hello.  What are you doing here?  I thought you were a ticket clerk.”  As she puts her bag in the overhead, “Well, I was before I became a flight attendant.  They were shorthanded at the desk so I was just helping out.”  “Oh so now you are working this flight” Cole asked.  Laughing she says, “Actually, I am a deadhead this flight.  I flew in yesterday and now have to go back to Zurich, so I am just catching a ride.  That so happens to be my seat.”  She points to the window seat next to him.
Cole smiles and stands up to let her in, “what a coincidence” he says.  She laughs as she sits down, “yeah the only seat left on the entire flight.  It is really busy today.”  As he sits back down, the flight attendant brings Cole his water.  The young lady next to him asks for some as well, then introduces herself to Cole.  “My name is Seraphina, but my friends call my Phiny.”  Cole smiles, “Seraphina that is a beautiful name.  Nice to meet you.  My name is Donovan.”  Cole had to tell her is cover name since she had seen it on his documents.  She smiles, “Yes I know.  I checked you in.  You know, Donavan is a very noble name.  It was my great grandfather’s.”
They chatted calmly as the plane took off.  Cole was very careful to use his cover story and not his real life.  He found it very hard to do with Seraphina.  He felt relaxed around her.  He has to think about each thing before he said to make sure he wasn't getting the two confused.
Into the flight, Seraphina pulls out a newspaper that catches Cole’s eye.  It was an American newspaper and it surprised him that it was not in German.  “What are you doing with USA Today,” he asked.  “Well I love reading it.  Keeps me somewhat up to date on things going on at home.”  Surprised, Cole says, “I thought you said you were from Zurich.”
Seraphina smiles, “No, I said my home base was in Zurich.  I actually grew up in Texas.”  Cole almost jumps out of his skin.  It is all he can do not to tell Seraphina that he too is form Texas, but then remembers his cover and that Donavan is from New York.  He thinks fast of some way to talk about Texas.  “Cool, I have relatives in Texas.  What part are you from?”
“Well, it’s a little town about 30 miles southwest of Texarkana,” Phiny answers.  Cole almost didn't contain himself.  That was close to the same area he was from.  He just simply told Seraphina that his family was somewhere in eastern Texas as well but that he wasn't familiar with the area.  As they talked, she handed Cole a section of the paper.  He as reading an article about the current war and noticed several words were underlined.  This was one of the methods used by his agency to pass along information.  He pulled out his pocket computer, shifted in his seat so no one could see and began typing in the words.
When he finished, he closed the paper, slipped the computer into his pocket and excused himself to the lavatory.  Cole locked the door and pulled the computer out.  He punched in his secret code of the day.  Within a few seconds the words were unscrambled and revealed his message.  He read it several times to ensure he had it memorized word for word, deleted it and put the computer back in his pocket.
When he returned to his seat, Seraphina handed him a bar of genuine Swiss chocolate.  “They served these while you were gone and I didn’t think you‘d want to miss out.  Cole takes the chocolate, smiles, and says, “Thank you.  I never miss free Swiss chocolate.  This must mean we just crossed over into Switzerland, so about 15 more minutes till we land.  I thought I felt a decrease in altitude.”
Seraphina looks at him.  "Wow, you must have traveled this route a few times.”  Eating his chocolate, “yes many times.  I do a lot of work in Zurich.  My company has one of its international hubs there.”   “What is it you said you did again,” Seraphina asks.  I am a computer systems analysis and program engineer to a big computer, software, and global internet company,” Cole answers making sure to say it just as he was taught.  Seraphina answers.
“Oh you mean DMC International?”  Cole smiles, “Yes that’s the one.  You know it?”  “Sure,” she answers.  “My uncle use to work there until he retired about 6 years ago.  It is a great company.”  Cole replies, “Yes I love it but it keeps me busy.  Lots of travel.”  Seraphina smiles, “That must mean you are one of their top guys.  Those are the ones that travel.  You must be very good.”  Cole almost blushes, “well I don’t know about that but they do keep me busy.”
Just as the Captain announces they have been cleared to land, Cole asks Seraphina if she would like to get a bite to eat when they land.  Seraphina looks at her watch.  “Well, it is almost dinner time.  Sure but could I go back to my apartment and freshen up first?  I hate wearing my uniform out to dinner.”
Cole smiles, “sure, I’ll go back to my hotel and freshen up myself.  We can meet at that little café next to DMC at 6.  That ok?”  Seraphina smiles, “that’s perfect.  I love that place and eat there often when I am in town long enough.
They continue talking as they walk down the jet bridge into the airport.  They say goodbye as Cole catches a taxi and Seraphina gets the shuttle to airline employee parking.  Cole gets to his hotel across the street from DMC just past 5:15.  He quickly checks in and goes to his room.  He sets up his equipment before going to freshen up.  Just as he is putting on a clean shirt, his secure phone rings.  He answers in his usual way, “Donavan 37639.”  After a short pause he hears a familiar voice, “Cole its Michael.  Are you alone?”  Cole answers, “Yes sir.  I am in my hotel room in Zurich.”  “Great,” Michael continues.  “Listen, I have some instructions for you.  Don’t write them down unless I say.  You met Seraphina correct?”
Cole seems a bit stunned and worry that she is somehow involved.  “Yes sir and I followed the directions from the coded message in the paper.”
Michael speaks, “Great then everything is set.  I hope you two get along ok because you are going to be a team for this next long mission and maybe others as well.  She is very good and you will need her.  Listen to her, she knows her stuff and was picked especially for this mission and for you.  That’s all I can tell you right now.  She will have more information for you at dinner.  Again just follow her lead on that.  Any questions?”  Cole answers, “No sir, Donavan 37639.”  The Call ends.
As Cole finishes getting ready for dinner, he can’t help but be happy.  He gets to spend lots more time with Seraphina.  He thinks they will make a great team.