Chapters 13 & 14

Chapter 13

As the plane lifted off the ground, Tina began to sob.  Missy put her arms around her sister.  “He’ll be ok, Tina.  He is strong and God will protect him.  He’ll be ok.”  It took several minutes for Tina to compose herself and speak.

“This last week has just been a whirlwind of emotions:  Cole, the kids, the engagement, everything.  It all seemed surreal, like a dream, I just can’t believe everything that has happened.  It’s sinking in and it is just so emotional.  It’s very draining and now I have to change my entire mindset back to reality and the hospital.  I can’t do this Missy!”  Tina began crying again as the three Carpenter sisters embraced on the plane.  They comforted Tina silently most of the flight while she just let her emotions flow.  Soon she was so emotionally drained, Tina drifted off to sleep.

Missy and Pam chatted quietly and prayed for their sister.  They decided that Tina should not be alone.  Pam decided she would stay at Tina’s house while Missy spent time with her family.  Pam was single and shared an apartment with a friend.  Missy was married and had a 5 year old daughter and a 3 year old son.  They all lived within an hour drive of each other and their parents.  Family was important to them. 

Tina woke as the plane touched the runway.  She didn’t realize how tired she really was.  As the plane taxied to the gate, Pam told Tina their plane.  Tina was glad to know she’d have some company.  She didn’t feel like being alone.

As the three stood at baggage claim, Tina’s phone rang.  She looked to see who it was but the number was blocked.  “Cole, are you ok?”

“Sorry Tina, it’s not Cole.  This is Todd Campbell.  Do you have a minute?”

“Hey Todd.  Sure I am just waiting on my luggage.  What’s going on?”

“Well Tina,” He answered.  “I haven’t heard from Cole so I wanted to update you so you could tell him.  Are you in contact with him?”

Tina sighs, “Well I am back in Texas and he is in Jamaica but I have a number he wanted me to give you so you could contact him.”  She read Todd the number. 

“Thanks Tina.  I’ll call him right away,” he answered.

Tina hesitated to ask but finally did.  “Todd is everything ok?”

“Tina, I can help him but it will take time and it will be off the grid.  Right now the best I can do will take at least 6-9 months with no guarantee,” he told her.

Tina struggled to keep her emotions in check.  “Todd, he doesn’t have that much time.  You have to do something, NOW!”

“Clam down Tina.”  Todd tries to calm her.  “What do you mean he doesn’t have that much time?  Is he in trouble?”

Tina turns away from the crowd.  “I can’t go into details right now but they are after him.  They almost killed him once.  He is determined to stop them.  I don’t think it will be good.  Please Todd!”

Todd again tries to keep her calm.  “Ok Tina, I will see what I can do.  I need to talk to him and get current details.  I will do my best.  Cole is a very good friend.  After I talk to him, I’ll work on some things.  I’ll keep you updated as much as possible.  Just stay with me on this.”

The conversation ends with Tina almost in tears again.  The sisters get their luggage and head home.  They drop Missy off first and then Pam and Tina head to Tina’s house.

“Pam, don’t you want to stop by your place for anything?”

Pam answers.  “Nah.  I’ll run by in the morning after you go by the hospital.  Just relax Tina.”

“Pam, I need a drink.  Can we stop?”

Pam was surprised.  She knew her sister only drank when she was really stressed or upset.  She could tell this was not going to be an easy next few days.  “Sure T but only one. Promise?”

Tina laughed, “Yes only one.  I have to be able to work tomorrow.”  They stopped, had their drink, and then headed to Tina’s. 

As soon as they walk through the door, Tina says, “Pam I am really tired.  I am gonna go lay down.”

Pam sets down her luggage.  “Ok T.  I’ll fix something to eat later and get you.  I’ll call mom and dad and let them know we are home.”

Tina crashed on the bed.  She was so tired but couldn’t seem to get to sleep.  Everything she closed her eyes she saw something bad happening to Cole.  She tried to get a good picture in her mind.  She thought of the kids and how great Cole was with them.  That made her smile and she tried to keep that picture in her mind.  With that she was finally able to draft off to sleep.

She had been asleep for over an hour when her cell phone wakes her up.  She looked at the clock and picked it up.  It was just after 5PM.  “Dr. Carpenter,” Tina answered.

“Tina,” a panicked voice said.  “It’s Hazel Connor.  I need to find Cole.  Do you know where to find him?”

Tina was surprised Cole mother was calling her.  “Well, I have a phone number for him.  Is something wrong?” 

“It’s Matt,” Hazel answers.  “I don’t know what’s wrong!  They are working on him now.”

“Are you by yourself, Hazel?”

“Suzy’s on her way dear. She should be here shortly.  I don’t know what to do Tina.  Should I let Cole know?”  Hazel is distraught.

Tina answers trying to calm her, “Why don’t we wait and see what is wrong first. Tell you what.  I ‘ll call the hospital there and try and see if I can get any info and call you back, ok?”

Hazel seems a bit relieved.  “Sounds good.  Thank you sweetie.”

Tina looks up the number for the hospital and dials.  Finally a voice on the other end says, “Community Hospital, how may I direct your call?”

“Emergency please,” Tina answers.  After a short pause someone answers and Tina begins.  “This is Dr. Carpenter from Baylor in Waco.  I am calling to check on a patient by the name of Matthew Connor.”

“Yes Doctor, one moment.”  After a few minutes the lady continues.  “Dr. Carpenter, Mr. Connor is in critical but stable condition.  It was not a strong heart attack but they do believe there is about 50 % blockage.  They are hoping to do surgery in the next day or so.  He is currently being moved to Cardiac I.C.U.”

Tina replies, “Thank you.  Are they thinking about transferring if he is stable enough?”

The lady answers, “I can certainly check on that Doctor.  If you will leave a number, I will let you know and keep you informed.”

Tina thanks her and gives her the number.  She immediately hangs up and calls Hazel back.  After several rings and unfamiliar voice answers, “Hello?”

“Yes this is Tina Carpenter.  I am calling for Hazel,” Tina says not sure who answered.

“Oh hey Tina.  This is Suzy.  Mom is talking to the Doctor.  She should be done in a bit.”

“Oh ok, then we can compare notes.  How are you, Suzy?”

“I am good Tina, thank you.  Oh here come mom.  I’ll talk to you later.”

Tina waits to hear Hazel’s voice.  “Hello Tina dear.  I just talked to the Doctor. He said if he stays stable until morning, they may transfer him per a doctor’s request.  Would that be you?”

“Yes ma’am.  I hope that is ok.  After what they told me, I think it would be best.  Community just doesn’t have the resources Baylor does.” 

“That’s fine,” Hazel answers.  “I agree and would actually feel better.  Do you have someone to take him?”

Tina smiles, “Yes, one of the best cardiac surgeons in the country is a good friend of mine.  I haven’t talked to him yet but am sure I can sweet talk him.  What did they tell you?”

“Well, they said it was a small heart attack due to blockage and that surgery is probably the best option.  What do you think, Tina?”

“Hazel, I am gonna tell you straight that surgery is a must.  They told me the blockage was more then 50%.  That means more attacks are possible.”

Hazel sighed, “The next one could be fatal too, right Dear?” Tina hesitated.  Then Hazel insisted, “Tina, tell me.  I need to know.”

Softly Tina replies, “Yes Hazel, it most likely could be.  Look don’t worry.  God has his hand on this.  Let’s pray him through the night and get him to Baylor and things will seem better.”

“Amen sweetie,” Hazel replies.  “I have put my trust in the Lord for almost 70 years.  I am not about to stop now.  Will I see you at Baylor tomorrow or are you still out of the country?”

“I will be there,” Tina says.  “I actually came back today.  I will have my cell but if I don’t answer just have the hospital page me.”

“Ok.  Tina, thank you so much.  I didn’t know who else to call.”  Hazel hung up.

Tina calls her friend.  “Hey Larry its Tina.  I need a huge favor.”

“Hey Carp, what can I do for you?”

“A longtime family friend is in ICU in and out of town small hospital.  He had a slight heart attack toady.  I was told he has more than 50% blockage.  If things go ok overnight, they are transferring him her in the morning.  Can you take him?”

“Carp, you know I will.  What’s his name and the hospital?”

“His name is Matthew Connor and he’s in Community Hospital in Lindin.  Thanks Larry,” Tina says.

“Lindin?  That’s a heck of a transfer.  I am not sure that is such a good idea, Carp.  The trip alone could kill him.”

Tina sighs, “Please Larry.  This is very important to me.  What do we need to do to make this happened.”

“Tina, honestly,” Larry settles into his serious mode.  “I can’t guarantee he’ll make the trip in his condition.  Chopper is out of the question and that’s almost five hours by ambulance.  They only way I’d even consider it is if I went out there and examined him and prepped him and rode back.”

“Larry, I’ll do whatever it takes.  There is a small airport about 12 miles away.  I’ll charter a plane for your flight there and have someone there to pick you up.  I’ll make sure there is an ICU equipped ambulance waiting.  I’ll owe you big time.  What do you say?”

“Carp, you drive a hard bargain.  I’ll go out there and asses him but make no promise on bringing him back.  I’ll be at the airport here at 6AM.  Meet me there with arrangements.  I know you can’t go but I want to make sure I have everything before I leave.  Can you do that?”

Tina relieved, “You got it Larry thanks.  I’ll see you in the morning.”

Tina makes some calls and gets everything arranged.  She is talking with Suzy about the plan when Pam comes in.  Tina hangs up and fills Pam in over dinner.

 Chapter 14

AS the sun begins to rise over Jamaica, Cole is just about to the gas station where he left the van.  He is sure they have sent someone to get it and ask the attendant questions.  The attendant was just unlocking the door when Cole pulls up in the old bus. 

“Good morning.  That ole thing still runnin?” he says as Cole gets out.

“That it is friend.  It has been a life saver.  What about my other van.  Where is it?”

The man smiles, “Well come in, have a cup of joe and I tell you.”

Cole walks with the shop keeper into the store.  “By the way my name is Cole.”

“Nice to meet you Cole.  My name is Rasta.  Coffee will be ready in a bit.  Now about your van.  Not long after you left, several guys came and asked where you were.  I said I sold you my bus and you took off for the coast.  They asked more questions but not have the answers.  They said they’d send for the van.  They gave me a number to call if I remembered anything or saw you again.  Couple hours later a truck came and took the van.  That’s it.”

“Did they say who they were or anything?”  Cole asks as Rasta pours two cups of coffee.

“Only name I got was the one on the phone number.  I put it over here.  He walks over and looks through a stack of papers.  “Here it is.  Says Phiny and the number.  That’s it.”

“Do you mind if I write that number down?”  Cole asks as he pulls out a notepad. 

“Not at all,” Rasta says handing him the paper.

Cole copies down the number and asks, “Do you know where I can buy a used car for a good price?”

“Sure, Charlie’s,” Rasta smiles.  “Go back up that way about half a mile and take a left.  He’s about a mile up.  Tell him I sent you and he’ll treat you right.  Anything else?”

Cole hands him back the number.  “Yes, I about an hour can you call that number and tell them I came by and said I had a flight out of the airstrip up here leaving at 9AM.  Say nothing else and I’ll make it worth your while.”

Rasta laughs.  “You don’t have to worry about that, my friend.  I can see you are a decent man which is more than I can say for those other guys.  You a Christ follower?”

Cole looks up, “Yes I am, why do you ask?”

Rasta laughs.  “I can always tell.  Pastor Greene and Ellen have helped you right?”

Cole looks at the man astonished.  “Yes but how…”

Rasta laughs and points to the pen Cole wrote the number down with.  Cole looks at it and realizes it has the name of the church on it.  “Ah, I see.  Do you know them?”

Rasta takes a sip of coffee.  “All my life.  Ellen is my cousin and James and I grew up together.  I introduced them, well sort of.  Any friend of theirs is a friend of mine.  Anything I can do to help you, just let me know.  Here is my number.”

Cole smiles as he takes the number.  “Right not just what I said about the call will be fine, but I’ll keep this just in case.  Thanks.”  Cole lays $50 on the counter and leaves.

He drive to Charlie’s just like Rasta said.  As he gets out a friendly Jamaican man greets him.  I’ll give you $200 for the heap and not a cent more.”  He laughs as he sticks out his hand.

“Rasta sent me,” Cole says shaking the man’s hand.

“Well in that case I’ll give you $100,” he says with a laugh.  “What can I do for you Friend?”

“Well sir, I need a car.  Prefer a dark colored one like SUV and needs tinted windows.”

“A man who knows what he wants.  I like that.  Well son, I got a handful you can choose from.  Come this way and let ole Charlie fix you up.”

Cole follows Charlie to a line of several dark SUV’s.  Cole chooses one with the darkest windows.  “It’s priced as $10,000 but since you are a friend of Rasta’s, I’ll let you have it for $8,500.

“Wow, that’s a good deal.  Now about the bus,” Cole says.

“I’ll knock another $500 off for it,” Charlie says                                                                 .

“Actually,” Cole begins, “I was hoping I could get you to really fix it up for me.  Bumper to Bumper and painted up real nice like this.”  Cole pulls out a picture he sketched.  “And have them put the church name across it like this.”

“Wow!” Charlie looks at the paper. 

Cole chimes in, “It’s a surprise for Pastor Greene and the church.”

Charlie looks at Cole, “you know Pastor Greene?”

Cole replies.  “Yes he and Ellen have really helped me out this last week.  How do you know them?”

“I am a deacon at the church,” Charlie replies.  “This is really great.  We have been looking into getting a bus.  We have needed one for a long time.  This is very generous of you Sir.  Sorry I don’t think I caught you name.”

“Oh sorry, I’m Cole.  So do you think you can fix it up?  I’ll pay for it.”

“Sure.  I have a great mechanic and I know a guys who does interiors and also someone who can do that beautiful drawing on the side.  I am sure for the church they would give me a deal.  They are both members there too,” Charlie says.

“Great,” Cole replies.   Here is the $800 for the car and another $5000 to fix the bus.  If you need more, I’ll pay you when I get back.  Here are the keys.  Deliver is to Pastor Greene when it’s finished and tell him it’s a thank you gift.”

Charlie smiles, “$5000 should be more than enough.  Whatever is left I will donate to the church.  Here are the keys to the SUV and I’ll be sure to fix the bus up nice.  Anything else I can do for you?” 

Cole finishes signing the papers.  “No, I think that will do it.  Thank you so much.”  Cole looks at his watch.  “I gotta run.  Thanks again.”

Cole drives down toward the airstrip.  He pulls out a second phone he bought.  He didn’t want to use the one Tina might call him on.  He needed this one strictly for business.  He pulled the notepad out of his vest pocket and dialed the number Rasta gave him.  After two rings, a familiar voice answers.  Did you miss me sweetheart?”  Cole says to Phiny.

“Donavan!  Where are you?  I thought you were dead!  Are you ok?  Where are you? I’ll come pick you up.”

“Correction Phiny, you hoped I was dead.  I know you turned on me.  Don’t play with me.  You will never get what you want.  Just give up!”

“Never Donavan!  I am going to put you out of business for good.  I am gonna get those kids.  You count on that.  You have no chance against my sources.”

Cole checked the time.  “What do you want with those kids?  What use are they to you Phiny?”  Cole asks trying to figure out what she is after.

Phiny laughs, As if you didn’t know.  I don’t want them really.  I only want them to get to you.  My job is to put you out of business.  I am going to kill you and those kids are a bonus.  Any more questions?”

“Just one,” Cole answers.  “What agency do you really work for?”

“You haven’t figured that out yet?  Boy you aren’t as smart as I thought,” Phiny says.  “I am an XSI agent and as you know, we ALWAYS get what we want, Cole Connor.”

Cole’s heart sank when she used his real name.  He remembered learning about XSI during training.  They were and independent agency that had no rules and were very ruthless.  “One more question.  Does Michael work for you?”

Phiny chuckled.  “Michael is dumber than you are.  Do you actually think he would be XSI?  He is a vein old man who doesn’t know his head from a hole in the ground”

“Well Phiny, thank you for the insight.  I’ve got to run.  I am sure I will see you later.  Have a wonderful day.”  Cole hangs up.  He sits back in the seat.  He knows Phiny is furious he can’t trace this phone.  He is still laughing as the thought as he dials the next number. It rings several times before someone answers.

“Cole are you ok?”

“Yes Michael, I am fine.  I need a team of your most trusted people ASAP.  How fast can you get them?”

“AS long as you are still in Jamaica, not long.  I dispatched a team there after you stopped contact.  Tell me what you need and I’ll get on it.  They have been laying low waiting on me for over 24 hours.  They are ready to go.”

Cole tells Michael his plan.  He gets the team leader on the line so Cole can explain to him as well.

“Cole, you will have to communicate to the team leader through me until we can get you some comms.  I will have them leave a package for you at the airstrip post office under the name Paul Eagleton.  Pick it up as soon as you get there.  You call sign is Eagle.  Team leaders’ call sign is Shepherd and I am Fisherman,” Michael tells him.

The three of them work out the last few details then hang up.  As Cole drives toward the airstrip, he pulls out his other phone for a very important call.  After several rings, voice mail picks up.

“This is Dr. Carpenter.  Sorry I have missed your call.  Please leave your message and I will get back to you soon.  God Bless!”  Cole waited for the beep.

“Hey T, I was just calling to hear your voice.  I miss you and I love you.  I hope you haven’t told anyone about the engagement.  I want to do it together.  I am getting ready to go to work.  Please call me when you can.  I love you, my Sweet T.”

Cole hung up half smiling half ready to cry.  As he passes Rasta’s station, he prays Rasta remembered to make the call.  He should have made it by now.  He thought about stopping to make sure but decided to trust his friend.  He drove on to the airstrip as he put his mind on the mission ahead.

Chapter 11 & 12

Chapter 11

Tina was awakened by the sound of laughter.  As she walked into the living room, she saw Pastor Greene on all fours with two children climbing all over him.  They were all smiling and laughing. 

He saw Tina standing in the doorway.  “I’m sorry did we wake you?”

She just smiled as the sight of the three of them.  It was hard to tell who was having more fun, the kids or Pastor Greene.  “No,” she replied.  “I need to get up.  What time is it?”

“Almost lunch time,” he answered.  “You hungry?”  he asked standing up and promising the two very disappointed children they could finish later. 

“I am starved,” Tina said giving him a hug.  “I am glad to see they are doing so well.  Do you think they understand or know what happened?”

Pastor Greene and Tina walked into the kitchen.  “Tina, kids are resilient.  I have seen kids come through worse than this.  These two are young.  I am sure there will be issues but we will do the best we can to show them love while we have them.”

As Pastor Greene began to prepare lunch, Ellen came running in.  “He’s waking up!  Hurry”

The Ellen and Tina went running into the room to Cole’s side.  As Tina kneels down, she faintly hears, “T?  T, where are you?”

Tina almost jumps out of her skin as she takes his hand.  “I am right here, Cole. “

Cole slowly opens his eyes and smiles at her.  “How long have I been out?”

Tina grabs her stethoscope and listens to Cole’s heart and lungs.  “Almost 12 hours.  We thought we were gonna lose you but thanks to Ellen we were able to get you some blood.”

Cole turns his head and sees Ellen kneeling on the other side, smiling.  He reaches out and takes her hand.  “Thank you!”  Ellen just smiles back at him as tears begin to form in her eyes.  Cole continues, “What about the kids?”

Ellen smiles, “They are fine.   James is feeding them lunch.  They have been playing and having fun.”

Cole smiles and looks back at Tina.  “Do they know about their mom and Teresa?”

Tina strokes his hair.  “We haven’t told them cause didn’t know if you wanted us to.  Pastor Greene said he would talk to them when the time comes.  He said he has really bonded with them and he has done this type of thing before.”

Cole begins to tear up.  “I am not sure they will completely understand.  Tell him I would be glad to have him be there to help talk to them but I want to be there as well.  They have a trust in me.  I better go help him.”  Cole starts to sit up but Tina stops him.

“Hang on cowboy.  You are not ready for that.  You need your rest first.  How about we prop you and you try eating first.”

Cole smiles, “Yes ma’am Doctor Carpenter.”

Tina laughs, “Ellen help me carefully pull him over by the wall to prop him up.”  They carefully full the pallet over to the wall and prop Cole mostly upright.  “That fell ok?” Tina asks.  Cole nods.  Ellen brings him some warm soup.  Cole slowly eats it, realizing with each bit just how weak he really is.  Just as Ellen takes the empty bowl.  Cole’s cell rings. 

“T, it in my vest pocket.  Could you get it?”

Tina finds if and hands it to him as she leaves, “I’ll give you privacy.”  Cole smiles and answers the phone.

“Cole is Michael, are you ok?”

Cole hesitates as he is not sure who he can trust anymore.  “I’ll live.”

Michael continues.  “Glad to hear.  Look I am very sorry about all of this.  I assure you that the problem will be dealt with.  How is the rest of the group?”

Cole shifts in pain.  “We lost the two to other agents, the mother and the Teresa.  The others are fine.”

Cole both the sadness and relief in Michael’s voice as he continues, “Good, we are working on a plan.  I’ll contact you with details.”

Cole’s nerves heat up, “With all due respect, sir, I am not going anywhere.  I am done with this.  These two are safe and are going to stay that way.  No more plans!”  With that he hung up.

He looked at the time log on the phone and sighed relief.  He hung up with enough time to spare so they could not trace his location.  He was glad he had counted in his head but knew he was now on his own and that Phiny was probably looking for him.  He sighed deeply, leaned his head on the wall and closed his eyes.  He began to pray out loud.

As Cole is praying, Pastor Greene comes into the room.  He stops at the door and says a silent prayer when he hears Cole praying.  Cole finishes and sees Pastor Greene standing there.  “Please come in.  I was hoping to talk to you.”

Pastor Greene comes over and sits beside Cole.  “I am glad you talked to the Man in charge first.  He knows best.”

Cole laughs as he shakes Pastor Greene’s hand.  “That he does, my friend.  That he does.  Look, thank you for all your help.  I am afraid they will come looking for me and I don’t want to put you guys in any danger.  As soon as I have my strength back, I’ll take the kids and go.  I just went rogue and am sure they will try to find me.”

Pastor Greene smiles, “No worries son.  We have a secret room.  This is your refuge.  You three will stay here.  We will make sure you are safe.”

Cole smiles, “Thank you.  God will bless you greatly for this.  I need you to help me do something.  Bring all my gear over here.  There is somethings I want to keep and other things I need you to destroy.”

Cole goes through all of his gear.  He checks each piece carefully for any agency markings.  He takes what he thinks he will need and asks Pastor Greene to burn the rest.  “I have a burn barrel out back where we burn trash.  I’ll get right on that,” he says as he takes Cole’s gear. 

Pastor Greene leaves, Tina and Ellen bring the two children in.  “Isaac wanted to see you,” Tina says.  “Be careful, he is still very sore,” she reminds Isaac. 

Cole opens his arms and three year old Isaac gently puts his arms around Cole’s neck.  “Don Don, you ok?” 

Cole smiles as a tear forms in the corner of his eye.  “Yes Isaac, I am ok.  How are you?”

Isaac plops hard into Cole’s lap and Cole moans in pain.  “Easy buddy!  My leg is hurt.”

“Sorry Don Don.  I am ok too.  We have fun.”  Isaac points to Pastor Greene as he enters the back door.  “Hey Pappy James, Don Don k.”

Pastor Greene smiles, “Yes I see that buddy.  You take good care of him.” 

Isaac giggles as he hugs Cole. “Me will Pappy James.”

Cole looks up at Tina who is holding 9 month old Laura.  He has tears running down his cheeks as he embraces Isaac.  “How is Laura,” he asks Tina? 

“She is fine.  Want to hold her?”

Cole reaches up his good arm and takes Laura.  He gently holds her just like a proud father.  Tina just smiles and looks at Ellen who is also smiling.  The two ladies lean on each other and watch Cole’s natural fatherly insists kick in.

Isaac breaks the silence.  “Don Don, when will I get to see mommy and daddy again?  I miss them.”

Cole had hoped Isaac would never ask that question.  He didn’t want to have to answer it.  Cole looked at Tina and signaled her to go get Pastor Greens.  They all had been dreading this moment.

Pastor Greene quietly came in and sat on the floor beside Cole and Isaac.  Cole took a deep breath and began to speak gently to the young boy.  “Isaac, Pappy James and I want to talk to you about mommy and daddy and the rest of your family.  Do you remember when daddy first left and what mommy told you about where he went?”

Cole could see Isaac thinking before he spoke, “Yes, mommy said that some men were mad at daddy and they taked him to place and be mean to him.  She said they bad guys.”

Cole half smiled but only to keep the tears back.  “She was right Isaac.  They are very bad.  They probably won’t bring daddy back.  They did the same with your brother Henry.”  Cole looked down at Isaac’s big blue eyes.  He couldn’t tell if the 3 year old was understanding or not. 

Then Isaac spoke in an excited voice.  “You go get them Don Don.  You shot them like you did other bad guys.”

Cole’s heart sank.  How could he tell this precious child what had happened.  He asked God to give him the words but Cole couldn’t find them.  He sat there in silence trying to hold back his emotions.  He kissed Laura’s cheek as she smiled at him.  Pastor Greene could see Cole’s emotional struggle and finally chimed in.

“Isaac, Don Don would go get them if he could but the bad guys were really mean to your daddy and they decided to kill him.  He won’t be coming back.  And do you remember the other day when Don Don shot those bad guys?  Well the bad guys also shot your mommy and Teresa.  Don Don and everyone here tried to save them but we couldn’t?  Do you understand?”

Cole could now see that Isaac was starting to understand.  He saw the emotions in the youngsters face.  Isaac’s voice cracked as he spoke.  “No more mommy and daddy?  No more Henry and Teresa?  Pappy James who will take care of us?”

Pastor Greene was a little stunned at his question.  He looked at Cole not sure how to answer.  Cole had a huge smile on his face.  “Isaac, we will take care of you.  We love you just like mommy and daddy.”

Isaac smiled as he leaned in and hugged Cole.  “Don Don will be my new daddy!!  Isaac Love Don Don roo!”

Cole embraced the boy with one arm as he held Teresa in the other.  HE looked at Pastor Greene a bit stunned.  That wasn’t exactly how he meant it and Pastor Greene just smiled.  He knew Cole had stepped right into that one.  Then Isaac suddenly sat up and had a serious look on his face.  “If Don Don is new daddy, who is new mommy?”

Cole jerked his head around and looked at Pastor Greene who almost fell over laughing.  Pastor Greene spoke, “I don’t know Isaac.  Who do you want it to be?”

Isaac answered without hesitation.  “Tina!  She is nice and very pretty like my other mommy.  Can she be mommy?”

Pastor Greene could not contain himself.  “I don’t know.  I think it’s up to Don Don.”

Isaac stood up and put his hands on each side of Cole’s face.  “Please Don Don, can Tina be my new mommy?”

Cole now starting to laugh himself answered, “I don’t know Isaac.  Why don’t you go ask her and let me know what she says.”

Without hesitation, Isaac ran out of the room to find Tina.  Pastor Greene stood up and took Laura from Cole.  Cole shoulder was throbbing in pain.  “That boy has enough energy for three of me,” Pastor Greene stated. 

Cole agreed, “Yes and very resilient.”  Cole sifted uncomfortably on the floor.  “Can you help me get up Pastor Greene?  I can’t stand it down here anymore.  I don’t care what the doctor says.”

Pastor Greene laid Laura down on a blanket.  And helped Cole.  After a few minutes of struggle, he was standing and leaning on the wall. 

“I have and old cane in my study to help you.  Stay right there and I’ll go get it,” Pastor Greene said.

Cole leaned on the wall and tried to work the soreness out of his legs.  He had just gotten the right one working good when Pastor Greene returned with the cane.  “Here, this should help until the left leg gets better.”

Cole takes the cane and slowly makes his way to the other room as Pastor Greene picks Laura up and follows.

 Chapter 12

Cole limps through the doorway and sees Isaac sitting on Tina’s lap hugging her.  Isaac looks up and sees Cole, “Don Don, she say yes!  Tina be my mommy!!”

Cole smiles as he leans on the counter.  “That’s great buddy.  I guess we are all set.”

Isaac pipes up.  “No not Don Don.  Where live?” 

Cole can’t believe the questions form this little boy.  He sits down on a stool as he answers.  “I don’t know buddy.  We will have to figure that out.  You don’t worry about all of that.  Just know that we love you and will take good care of you.”

Cole shoots Ellen a look and she immediately gets up, “Isaac why don’t we go play.”

Isaac grabs her hand and they leave the room.

As soon as they are gone, Pastor Greene speaks up, “Well, you two have a lot to discuss.  Let me say this.  I am willing to take these two into the orphanage and wait for you to decide what to do.  I know this is not exactly what you were thinking but pray about it and let God tell you His plan.”  Pastor Greene leaves the room.

Cole let what Pastor Greene said sink in before speaking.  “T, I have no idea what to do.  For the first time in a long time, I don’t have someone telling me which way to turn and I feel lost.  It’s not only me but those two little one.  I feel responsible for them.  I feel helpless.”  Cole buries his face in his hands and begins sobbing.  Tina walks over and puts her arms around him.

“Cole, you are the strongest person I know.  You have always been able to do anything.  You are just physically and emotionally drained.  You are not alone in this.  Just rest for a few days and do what Pastor Greene said.  Use this time to talk to God and listen to Him.  He will guide you, just listen.  He’ll tell you when you are ready.”

Cole takes Tina’s hand and looks up into her emerald eyes.  “T, I love you.  If I get out of this will you promise we will adopt those two precious kids and we can be a family?”

Tina is a bit surprised at what Cole just asked but blurts out a response without hesitation.  “Yes, absolutely.  I love you, Cole and I love them.  I want us to be a family.”

 They kissed until Ellen interrupted them.  “I hate to break this up but Tina your cell keeps ringing.”

Tina looks at her watch.  “Oh goodness, I was supposed to call my sisters back.  I bet it’s them.  I’ll come get it.”  She gives Cole one more kiss and rushes out of the room.

Cole turns to Ellen.  “I need a favor.  Actually more than one.”

Ellen smiles and pours two glasses of water.  “OK shoot.”

Cole takes a big drink form the glass Ellen hands him.  “First I need you to go to the cell phone stand down on the beach.  Not the store but the stand out on the boardwalk.  I need you to buy me one of those phones.  I’ll give you the cash.  Then I need you to go get some medical supplies.  Not so much that will draw attention but enough to change my dressings for a few days.  Then I need some new clothes.  Just normal stuff.  Can you do all of that?”

Ellen smiles, “Yes I can handle that.  Can Tina come with me?  I might need help carrying all of that.”

Cole laughs, “Sure but you gals be careful.  I am sure they have started looking for me and any suspicious buying might cause concern.  Be alert and cautious.”

Ellen smiles, “Don’t worry.  I promise I won’t let anything happen to her.  I have lived here most of my life.  I know how to blend in and how to spot bad guys.”

Cole grabs and squeezes Ellen’s hand.  Thank you Ellen, for everything.” 

Ellen pats his hand.  “You are welcome, dear.  James and I instantly felt a connection to both of you when we met the other day.  We knew God had something special planned.  He is slowly revealing that to us.”

Ellen leaves and Tina returns with a saddened look on her face.  “Cole, we need to talk.  I have to leave tomorrow.  Something has come up with my research at the hospital.  I am the only one that can take care of it.  I have been working on it for over 2 years.  If I don’t get back our entire project could be in jeopardy.  I’m sorry.”  She hugs him as her eyes fill with tears.

“T, its ok.  Believe me I would love for you to stay but it’s probably safer if you go.  When do you leave?”  Cole wipes the tears from her cheeks.

“My flight leaves at 1030 tomorrow morning.  I need to go to the hotel and talk to my sisters and get my things and then I’ll be right back here.  I will leave from here.”

Cole wipes more tears from her cheek.  “Why don’t you stay there and rest tonight and come back in the morning before you leave.  You need a good night sleep.  Spend some time with your sisters and relax.”

Tina smiles at him, “Are you sure?  I don’t mind and I want to be here with you.”

Cole kisses her nose.  “I am sure.  Just be careful if you talk to them about me and the kids.  I am sure others are seeking information.”

Tina promised to be careful.  She kissed Cole, told Ellen bye and left.

Isaac come running into the room and climbed on the stool next to Cole, “Don Don, where new me ne mommy going?”

“She had to go do some things, buddy.  She’ll be back in the morning,” He said as he helped Isaac on the stool.

Isaac leaned on the counter just like Cole, “But said she leave again.”

Cole sat Isaac on the counter in front of him.  “She is a doctor who helps very sick little boys and girls.  She got a call that one of those kids needed her badly.  So she has to go and take care of them.”

Isaac smiled, “Wow, she be good!  She help them and me all!”

Cole smiled.  He felt as though he was talking to his own son.  Then Isaac asked a questions that Cole was dreading.

“Don Don, are you get bad guys?”

Cole chooses his words carefully.  “I have to stop them from trying to hurt you and Laura.  They might try to hurt all of us if I don’t.”

Isaac climbs off the counter and into Cole’s lap.  “No go Don Don.  They take you too.  Please no leave me.”  Isaac is holding onto Cole with all his might, crying.

Cole embraced him.  He couldn’t believe this little boy had touched his heart so deeply and in such a short time.  He loved Isaac just like he was his.  He so wanted to take away the pain and make everything right.  “Isaac, I promise I’ll come back.  I will never let anyone hurt us again.  That’s why I need to go.  So I can stop them.  Pappy James and Nana Ellen will take good care of you.  I promise I will be back and then we can all be a family.  Ok Buddy?”

Isaac say up in Cole lap, still sniffling.  “Ok Don Don.  But you get those bad guys!”  Cole smiled and hugged him tight. 

Ellen came in ready to leave.  “Is that all you need me to get?”

Cole slowly stood helping Isaac to the floor.  “No there is one more thing.  I will tell you while we walk and I get my money belt.”

Ellen and Cole slowly walk to the back door of the church, talking quietly.  Ellen seemed really excited during the conversation and gave Cole a big hug before leaving.

Cole walks back into the kitchen where Isaac is playing with a truck on the floor.  “Don Don, I have juice?”

Cole smiles, “Sure buddy.  I’ll drink some with you.”  Cole pours the juice and helps Isaac onto the stool.

“Don Don I think I like you be my daddy.  Don Don fun!  My other daddy no play with me.  He work.  Promise play lots Don Don.”

Cole reached over and rubbed the top of his head.  “I promise buddy and if you ever think I spend too much time working and not enough playing, you let me know ok?”

Isaac smiled, “Ok Don Don.  I call you daddy?”

Cole swallowed the lump in his throat.  “Sure buddy, anytime.  Hey can you help me do something special tomorrow when your new mommy gets back?”  Cole asked as he handed Isaac a cookie.

“Sure, I call her mommy too?” Isaac asked with a mouth full of cookie.

Cole laughs.  “I don’t think she would mind.”  Cole was talking to Isaac about his plan as Pastor Greene came in.  “You two aren’t eating all my cookies are you?”

“No Pappy James.  Make surprise for Mommy.  You help?”

James got a cookie for himself, “Well only if daddy needs me too big guy.  What’s the surprise?”

Cole pipes in, “Isaac why don’t you take your cookie in there and play while I talk to Pappy James.

James pours him some juice.  “So what’s the big surprise?  Is it something I should know about?”

Cole laughs, “Yeah I suppose you should.  I will probably need your help as well.”  He begins to explain things to James and before he finishes, Ellen returns. 

“Ok Cole, I got everything.  Including that very special item for the surprise.”  Ellen hands Cole a small bag.  “I hope it’s the correct one.  It was the closet to what you described.”

Cole takes the bag.  “I am sure it is.  He pulled a small box out of the bag and opened it.  “Ellen, it’s perfect.  That’s it.  Thank you.”

Cole showed the contents to Pastor Greene, “Wow, that’s beautiful, Cole.  She’ll love it.”

Cole closed the box.  “I hope she does.  I was never good at this type of thing.”

“It’s from the heart.  She’ll love it dear.”  Ellen said as she emptied the other bags onto the counter.  Cole went through them.  He got the cell phone out and set it up.  He immediately called Tina. 

“Doctor Carpenter,” she answered.

“Hey T.  It’s me.  Hey this is my new number.  It can’t be traced.  Use this one for me until I tell you otherwise.  Did you make it back to the hotel ok?”

“Yes I did.  Thank you.  I realize how much I really did need to relax.  My sisters and I are going for a walk on the beach before dinner.  They wanted to come see you but I told them you needed to rest.   They do want to come with me tomorrow to say goodbye and meet the kids.  Is that ok?”

“Sure,” he answered.  “They will love them.  He and I have really bonded.  It’s great, T.  I love you and see you in the morning.”

“I love you too, Cole.”  Tina answered and they hung up.

Cole smiled a big smile.  “Her sisters are coming with her in the morning.  This is gonna be great.  I think I’ll go see if Isaac wants to watch cartoons.  I haven’t watched TV in a long time.”  Cole hobbled into the other room and laid on the couch and watched TV with Isaac.  They were both soon fast asleep.  Ellen and James just let them sleep.

Early the next morning, Tina and her sisters arrived.  Ellen meet them at the door.  “Be very quiet and follow me.  I want to show you something.”  They followed Ellen into the living room and Ellen pointed to the couch.  They saw Cole sound asleep on his back with little Isaac sound asleep on Cole’s chest.  Cole had his arms wrapped around Isaac.

“Oh my goodness,” Tina said softly.  “That is too cute.  I have to have a picture.”  She pulls out her camera and takes several shots.  She then kissed both of them on the head.  Isaac squirmed and opened his eyes.

“Mommy, you back!”  He reached up for Tina.  She picked him up as Cole started to wake up. 

“Yes sweetie, I promised I would,” she said hugging him.  “How are you?”

“Me good mommy.   Daddy take care me.”

Tina smiled and kissed his head again.  “I see that.  Look I brought some people for you to meet.  These are your Aunts.  This is Aunt Pam and this is Aunt Missy.”

Isaac gets excited.  “Me got Aunts too!  This great!”  They all laughed as Cole stands up and gives Tina and Isaac a kiss.

“Yeah buddy,” Cole says.  “You’ve got lots more family you don’t even know about.”

Ellen ushers them all into the kitchen for coffee.  Isaac is just talking away with his new aunts.  Finally Cole interrupts him.  “Isaac, are you ready for our surprise? Let’s go!”

Isaac excitedly jumps down and runs into the other room with Cole limping behind him.  Ellen, Tina, Pam, Missy and James all talk at the table. 

Soon Isaac comes running back in.  “Mommy!  I made book for you.  Read me please!”  Isaac jumps up into Tina’s lap and hands her the book.  “Daddy help me.”

Tina hugs him.  “I would love to.  Is this my surprise?”

Isaac looks at Cole standing in the doorway.  “Me not say.  Read me!”

Tina reads the cover.  “My New Family.”  She turns the page and reads.  “I have new mommy and daddy.  They special!  My daddy save me from bad guys.  He brave.”  Tina looks at the drawing.  “That’s a good picture of your daddy.  Did you draw that?”

Isaac smiles, “Yes, daddy say good book got pictures.  I draw and told daddy to what write.”

Tina laughed.  “Yes they do.”  She read the next page.  “Mommy is pretty.  She nice.  She help save kids like me.  She doctor.  She have to leave but be back soon.  Me know she will.”

By this time Tina has tears welling up in her eyes.  She turns the page and continues.  “Daddy leave to get bad guys.  He promise he get them and come back.  We all be family but only if…”

She stops and turns to Cole who has a huge smile on his face.  “Only if what?”

Cole nods as he hands Laura to Pam.  “Turn the page and find out.”

Tina shoots him a look, turns the page and reads, “Mommy marry daddy.”  Tina stares at the page with tears rolling down her cheeks.  She just sits there and begins to cry. 

Isaac puts his hands on her cheeks, “Mommy, we no mean to make sad.  Daddy say you be happy.”

Tina wipes the tears.  “I am happy sweetie.  These are happy tears.”  She turns and finds Cole beside her on one knee with a small box in his hand. 

“T, I let you go once.  I will never do that again.  I know things still have to work out for me but before we leave this place that brought us back together, I have to know if you will take me and these two kids to be yours forever.”

Tina had more tears rolling down her face as Cole opened the box.  She answered, “I wouldn’t have it any other way.  Of course I will.”  She looked down and say the beautiful and unique ring. 

Cole described the significance.  “The big emerald in the middle is for us because it’s for both of our birthstones and your favorite and for our love that has persevered.  The two small diamonds on either side represent Isaac and Laura.  The band is inlaid with black coral to represent Jamaica, the place where God brought us back together.”  Cole slips the ring on her finger. They embrace and kiss while everyone claps.

They all spend the rest of the time talking and having fun.  Time seems to fly buy and before long, Tina looks at her watch.  “Goodness, if we don’t hurry we are going to miss out flight.”  She hugs Ellen and James.  She then kisses Laura and talks to Isaac and tells him bye.  She promise him she will be back as soon as she can.  They both begin to cry as Cole walks Tina to the door.  “They will be fine, T.  Ellen and James will see to it.”

Tina smiles as she puts her arms around his neck.  “I am not worried about them.  What about you?  You need to stop all of this.  You aren’t strong enough.  Please wait.”

He kisses her forehead.  “I can’t do that.  If I don’t go now, I’ll lose my chance.  I am going to finish planning today, then head out tomorrow.  After this is over, I’ve got to find a way out.  I will do my best to call you every few days.  If you hear from Todd Campbell at the F.B.I. give him my new number.  I haven’t had a chance to call him back.”

Tina and Cole embrace and have a long passionate kiss.  Cole speaks as he holds Tina in his arms.  “T, no matter what happen, remember that I love you and that the time spent here with you has been the happiest of my life.”  He kissed her forehead as tears roll down her cheeks.

“I love you, Cole.  Please be careful.  I will pray constantly for your safety.”  She hugs him and walks away crying.  Tina knows there is a good chance this might be the last time she sees him.  Just before she gets in the car, she looks back and Cole standing in the doorway and smiles. 

Cole stands there and watches the car disappear down the roll as a storm rolls in off the open.  He heads back in to prepare for what will be his final mission one way or another. 

Cole is up before dawn.  He finishes packing his gear and eats breakfast.  Pastor Greene strolls in just as he is finishing up. 

“Didn’t mean to wake you, Pastor but I am glad you are here.  I need to give you something.”  Cole pulls out 3 envelops and hands them to James.  “If something happens and I don’t make it back.  Please deliver these for me.  One is for Tina, one is for the kids and one is for my parents.  Tina can help you deliver that one.”

James lays the envelopes on the counter.  “That will not be necessary.  God will protect you but I will if He has other plans.  Ellen will be out in a minute.  She and I want to pray over you before you go.”

“Thank you,” Cole says.  “I want to go kiss the kids bye first.  I’ll be right back.”  Cole walks to the room where Laura and Isaac are sleeping.  He leans down and kisses Laura’s head and says a prayer over her.  He then walks over to Isaac and does the same. 

As he finishes praying, Isaac opens his eyes. “You leave now?” he whispers.

Cole sits next to him.  “I am buddy.  Take care of your sister while I am gone.  Listen to Pappy James and Nana Ellen.  Be a good boy and remember I love you.”

“Love you daddy.  Get bad guys!”

Cole smiles and kisses Isaac again as he falls back asleep.

He returns to the kitchen where Pastor James and Ellen offer beautiful prayers for his protection.  He hugs them both and heads out into the morning darkness. 

Chapters 8, 9, & 10

Chapter 8

The entire team checked in to their hotel.  They made sure the family and the security agents had adjoining rooms.  Cole and Phiny were across the hall.  They were all exhausted form the trip and decided to get some sleep.  Cole laid wide awake thinking about Tina.  The instant he saw her on the plane, all the feelings came rushing back and so did the memories from back home.  After about an hour he couldn’t stand it anymore. 

As he was putting on his shoes, Phiny woke up.  “Where are you going?  It’s late and you need rest.”

Cole stood up.  “I just need some fresh air to help me relax.  I’ll be back in about an hour.  I have my cell if you need me.  Go back to sleep.”

Phiny wanted to protest.  She knew why he couldn’t sleep and had an idea of where he might go to get fresh air but she was too tired to do so right now.  She barely heard to door close behind Cole as he left.

Cole walked almost a mile in the clean, cool ocean breeze.  He didn’t know just how far he walked until he looked up and the beautiful Hilton Resort in front of him.  He smiled.  He knew God lead him here for a reason.  He took a deep breath and headed in and took a seat at the lunge bar. 

The bartender asked, in his think Jamaican accent, “What can I get you, man?”

“Scotch and water please.  And do you have a phone I can ring a room?”

The bartender poured his drink.  “Sure do you know what room?”

Cole thought.  He has no idea what room Tina was in.  He laughed and said, “No she forgot to tell me.”

The bartender walked to a computer a few feet from Cole.  “What’s her name, sir?”

Cole told him Tina’s name as he typed it in.  “Here she is in room 2035.  Want me to ring it for you?”

Cole said yes and the man dialed and handed Cole the phone. After a few rings, Tina answered.

“Tina, its Cole.  Sorry to call so late.”

Tina laughs, “Its ok we were just hanging out up here and goofing off.  You know how us Carpenter sisters are.  What’s up?”

Cole takes a deep breath.  “I am down here in the lounge.  Can we talk?”

Tina hesitates before answering.  “Sure I’ll be down in a minute.”

Cole orders himself another drink and the drink he remembers Tina drank all the time when they went out.  Soon she was standing beside him at the bar.  He points to a secluded table in the corner and carries the drinks over.  He sits down.  “Here, I hope I remembered correctly.”

Tina laughs, “Yes you did but I really don’t drink much anymore.  I stopped in Med-School”

Cole sinks into his chair, “Oh sorry.  I thought you…”  He stopped mid-sentence as Tina puts her hand on his.

“Cole it’s ok.  I have one every once in a while so this one won’t hurt,” she says flashing her beautiful smile.  She takes a drink as Cole smiles back.  She continues, “Now, what’s wrong, Cole?”

Cole takes a drink.  “What makes you think something is wrong?”  He takes another drink.

Tina chuckles, “You come here at this hour and say you want to talk and you wonder why I think something is wrong.  Besides, you’re drinking scotch and water.  You only do that when something is wrong.  You better spill is Cole Connor.”

Cole finishes his drink.  “You know me too well, then and still now.”  There is a long silence as Cole rattles the ice in his glass and thinks how to say what he is thinking.  Finally he leans back and blurts out, “Are you still living in Texas?”

Tina smiles, “Yes.  I am working and teaching at Baylor in Waco.  I work in the Pediatric Center of Childhood Diseases and am a teacher professor at the Med-School.  Why?”

Cole is impressed as he orders another drink, before he continues.  “I need a favor or two.  Can you call my folks and find out when Suzy’s wedding is?  Like tomorrow?  I need to know and I can’t contact them.  Here’s the number.”

Tina looked confused as she took the napkin Cole wrote the number on.  Cole saw her confusion and tried to explain.  “Look, I can’t go into details but I am working undercover as Donavan Maloney.  I haven’t been able to talk to them in several months.  I know they are worried.  If you could find out for me and leave a message at the desk of my hotel under that name, I’d really appreciate it.  Also tell them I am just fine and I love and miss them.”  Cole stopped as he started to tear up. 

Tina squeezed his hand.  “Yes, I can do that.  But I can see you are not fine.  Talk to me Cole.  Please.  I can see you are hurting.”

Cole smiled as he took her hand in his.  “Tina, I can’t do this anymore.  I’ve got to get out but I don’t know how.  I used to feel like this was what God wanted me to do but now I feel He is telling me otherwise.  I am so deep into this, I am not sure what will happen if I say I want out.  I have heard others say that there is usually only one way out and I can’t do that.  I don’t want to put my family through that.”

Tina knows exactly what he means by that and just sits quietly for a few minutes letting her thoughts come before finally speaking.  “Cole, of God wants you elsewhere, He will provide the way.  Is there anyone on the inside you can really trust?”

Cole shakes his head.  “The only one that I might is my operator but he has done too much for me already.  I don’t want to involve anyone else on the inside and risk them as well.”  Cole begins to tear up again and takes a drink.  Then Tina sees a light bulb come on as he speaks.  “Tina, can you do one more HUGE favor?  Can you find out is Special Agent Todd Campbell still works for the F.B.I.?”

Tina hesitates.  “I guess so, but why?”

Coles answers as he writes the name and number down.  “He was my boss when I worked there.  He actually helped me get into this agency.  We kept in contact for a while but not as of late.  Maybe he can help.  Explain the situation to him and ask advice or help but tell him I said, ‘To keep the juice handy.’  That’s a phrase he will know and what it is needed for.  Can you remember that?”

Tina writes the phrase down as Cole looks at his watch.  “Crap, I told Phiny I’d be back in an hour.  I gotta go.”  He jumps up and kisses Tina on the cheek.  “Thank you for doing all of this Sweet T.  You have no idea what it means.”

Tina smiled.  He hadn’t called her Sweet T since he moved away to work for the F.B.I.  “Sure thing Cole.  I’ll get it done first thing in the morning and leave a message at your hotel.”  She stood to hug him and didn’t expect it to feel so good.  It seemed neither wanted to let go.  Finally Cole reluctantly slipped out as he kissed he cheek again and headed back to his hotel.

Cole was relieved to find Phiny sound asleep when he returned.  He quietly slipped into his bed for a few hours of sleep. 

Cole awoke just as the sun rose over the beach.  It was a beautiful sight and he laid there and watched until the smell of coffee caught his nose.  He poured a cup and walked out on the balcony to enjoy the morning.  He could hear Phiny finishing her shower. 

When she finished, she poured a cup and joined him.  “Beautiful isn’t it?”  Cole just nodded as Phiny continued.  “SO what time did you return last night?  I was out.”

Cole smiled as he sipped his coffee and stared at the waves.  “It was about 2:30AM.  I just had a nice peaceful walk.”  Just then there was knock at the door.

Phiny smiled, “Must be breakfast.  Hope you’re hungry.”

The bell boy entered and set breakfast up at their table.  He handed Cole the morning paper before leaving. There was a little conversation as they ate.  Cole read the paper.  He kept the real estate section and gave Phiny the rest. 

She saw and asked, “Planning on buying a place here?”

Cole just smiled, “It’s a great place, never know.”  He finished his last bit of toast.  “I’m gonna go for a run.  Wanna come?”

Phiny was surprised he asked.  He had been secretive and standoffish lately.  “Well,” she answered, “I just showered but I think a run will do some good.”

They both changed and headed out.

They ran about three miles up the beach before heading back.  They were waiting on the elevator when Cole spotted Tina coming in the door.  He quickly found an excuse.  “I am gonna get a smoothie.  Why don’t you go take a shower and I’ll be right up.”

Phiny smiled, “OK.  Can you get me one as well?”

Cole kissed her cheek.  “Sure see you in a few.”

Tina spotted Cole just as the elevator door closed.  “Hey, I was just gonna leave you a message.”

Cole smiled and kissed her half on the cheek half on the mouth.  “In person is much better don’t you think?”  Cole led Tina to the smoothie stand.  She shared with him what she found out as he ordered and waited.

“First off, your parents were glad to hear form me.  They want me to come to dinner next week.  They are great.  They were glad to hear you are doing well and they send their love.  Suzy’s wedding is in 3 months on the 18^th of July at the church.  They all really hope you can make it.”  Tina pauses as Cole’s ordered is delivered and he pays.  “I got a hold of Todd Campbell.  It’s now Assistant Director Campbell.”  Cole smiles sheepishly as Tina continues.  “I told him the situation and he said he would ‘pick the grapes and see if he had a buyer.’”  Tina read the phrase from a small note pad.  “He also gave me this number to give you.  He said give him 48 hours.”

Cole took the paper from her.  “Thank you so much Sweet T.  Het have you explained the situation to your sisters yet?”

Tina smiled, “Yes I did.  They want to have lunch today.  Is that possible?”

Cole smiles.  “It should be.  I’ll see if Phiny can find something to do so we can all talk freely.  I gotta go.  I’ll call you and let you know.”

Tina smiled.  “We will be out and about.  Here call my cell.”  She writes the number down and gives it to Cole.

“Great, look forward to it.”  He leans in and kisses her on the lips with a quick peak.  Tina get a tingle inside and wished it lasted longer.  Cole smiles at her as if to say he did as well.  She walks out when he gets on the elevator.

“So, how is Tina?” Phiny asked as Cole shuts the door.  He didn’t say a word as he handed her the smoothie.

He finally speaks as he takes a seat.  “Spying on me?”

Phiny sits next to him.  “I’ve got to keep an eye on my husband.  Especially with all these tropical beauties running around,” she says with a smirk.

Cole smiles as he finishes his smoothie.  “I am gonna go take a shower.”

Phiny grabs his arm as he walked by and stops him.  “Do you remember that night we stayed up and talked?  Do you remember the things we said? Do you still feel that way?”  She looked up at him for an answer.  He couldn’t look at her.  Finally she stood and looked him in the eye.  “You still love her don’t you?”

Cole just stood there in silence as his heart felt like it was going to beat out of his chest.  Phiny got mad and turned to walk away but he grabbed and stopped her.  “I still have feelings for you.  Nothing will change that. Yes she still holds a special place in my heart but that’s in the past.  You’re here now.”  He gently pulled her close and they kissed very passionately.  They only stopped when Phiny’s cell rang.

They continued to hold each other close as she answered, had a short conversation and hung up.  “That was Michael,” she said.  “We are to stay here for a few days.  The others will as well.  You and I are just to blend in as tourist/honeymooners and go about normally.  We are to have no contact with the group until further notice.” 

Cole pulled her closer and kissed her neck.  Phiny embraced him as her whole body melted into him.  He finally released her and headed to shower. 

Just as Cole turned off the water, he heard his cell phone ring from the bathroom counter.  He quickly dried off and grabbed it.  “Cole, hey its Michael.  DO you have a few minutes?”  Cole thought is strange that Michael was so casual.

“Yes sir.  What is it?”

Michael chuckled.  “This isn’t a work call.  I have a surprise for you.  Please hold the line for a connection.” 

Cole was unsure what was going on but did as he was told.  After a brief silence, Cole heard the most wonderful sound.  “Hello Cole.  How are you sweetie?”

Cole almost leapt through the phone.  “Hey mom!  I am well how are you?”

They talked for almost an hour.  His mother asked him about Tina.  “Yes mom, it was great seeing her again.  My heart leapt when I saw her.  I am having lunch with her and her sisters today…No mom that doesn’t mean we are getting back together.  You know that’s not possible… Yes I hope to come to the wedding.” 

After a while, Michael broke in and let them know they had to go.  They both said their goodbyes and Michael ended their call before saying, “Ok Cole, you have no idea the rules I just broke for this.  So now for work stuff.  If you are going out to lunch, Phiny HAS to go with you.  I need you guys to keep your cover so having lunch with 3 women by yourself is not good.  I know you have told Tina as least part of what is going on.  You need to be extremely careful.”   The call ends. 

As he hung up the phone, Cole knew the sacrifices Michael had made.  He also knew that telling Tina even part of the truth could compromise the entire mission.  He stood there leaning over the sink wishing Tina had not been on the plane.  He prayed, “Lord, you know I still love her but these feelings could put lives in danger here.  Please help me control these feelings.  Please Lord!  And what about Phiny?  I have developed feelings for her.  Show me the right path.  Help me make the decision.  Help me do your will in all of this.”  By now Cole was down on his knees with tears running down his cheeks. 

Phiny heard the quiet sobs and knocked softly on the door.  “Donavan, are you ok?” 

Cole wiped his eyes as he stood up.  “Yeah.  I’ll be out in a minute.”  Cole finished getting ready and gathered his emotions before opening the door.  He looked at the clock and realized it was almost lunch time.  He picked up the phone to call Tina.

Cole told her Phiny would be coming as well.  He could tell the disappointment in her voice.  They made arrangements of when and where to meet.  Cole reminded her to use his cover name.  She promised they all would.

Cole went to see if Phiny was ready.  He heard something in the bedroom.  He peeked through the cracked door and saw Phiny on her knees beside her bed.  He heard her softly crying.  He listened before he entered and realized she was praying.

He waited quietly until she finished and said another prayer of his own.  After a couple of minutes, Phiny stood and began wiping her eyes.  Cole quietly walked up behind her and put his arms around her.  “He’s a great God!  He’ll answer in His time.”

She turned and put her arms around his neck.  “He always does,” she said as she gently kissed him on the lips. 

“Are you ready to go to lunch,” he asked.

Phiny smiled, “I really don’t think you want me tagging along.  You go by yourself.”

Cole kissed her forehead, “I’d love for you to come.  Please!”

Phiny laughed as she walked to the bedroom door.  “Ok but only because Michael said I had to.”

Cole took off after her.  “Hey now that’s not fair!”  He caught her at the elevator, took her in his arms and kissed her.

They stood there kissing as others passed by, watching and smiling.  Suddenly Cole looked up and saw and older lady waiting beside them for the elevator.  “Sorry, we are on our honeymoon.”

The lady smiled.  “It’s perfectly alright.  Love is beautiful!”  Just them the elevator doors opened and they all got on.

Cole and Phiny walked arm in arm down the beach front to the restaurant.  Just the block before, Cole stops and turns to Phiny.  “I have to tell you something.  I had Tina do some things for me.  Things you probably don’t need to know, at least for your protection but I feel it necessary to warn you.  She might mention it.  She called and old friend at the F.B.I. and …”

Phiny smiled and nodded.  She placed her finger gently on Cole’s lips.  “It’s ok.  No need to say it all.  I know the rest but if you say it, I’ll have to tell the truth if they ask.”

Cole smiled and nodded at her.  They walked to the open air restaurant arm in arm.

Chapter 9

Tina looked up over her glass and saw Cole and Phiny.  Her heart sank.  She hated seeing him with another woman, even if it wasn’t real.  She was surprised to see them so friendly.  She just kept telling herself it was all part of his cover.  She stood and greeted them.

As Cole greeted her he leaned in and whispered in her ear, “I’m sorry.  I had no choice.”

Tina smiled as she sat down.  “My sisters will be here in a minute.  They wanted to hit one last shop on the corner.”  Just as Tina said that, Cole saw them coming.  They all greeted each other and sat to continue the conversation.  Phiny felt like the odd man out.  Cole and Tina tried to keep her included in the conversation but it didn’t work.  After a while, she excused herself to the lady’s room.

As soon as she left, Tina moved closer to Cole.  “I have to tell you something.  It’s been eating at me since the plane the other day.  I can’t stand it anymore.  I have to say it.”  Tina stopped and looked at her sisters who encouraged her to continue. 

Cole took Tina’s hand and said, “Ok, go ahead.”

Tina took a deep breath and slowly let it out and just let it out as she looked at Cole.  “Cole, I still love you.  I never stopped loving you.  I have dated other guys trying to fill that void.  I thought one time I had.  Last year I got engaged to a man I thought I loved.  I broke it off three weeks before the wedding because I knew this was not the man I was to marry.  I can’t explain how I knew but I did.  That was about four months ago.  Ever since then I have been praying and seeking God’s guidance in this area.  The day after I broke it off, I found the ring you gave me before you left.  Two days later, I found all your pictures.  Every few days I found something else of yours that I thought I had put away.  Before coming on this trip, I prayed and fasted for 2 days.  I prayed God would give me a definite answer one way or another.  I prayed he would completely get you out of my life or completely bring you back into it.  The next day I was on that plane.”  Tina was almost in tears.  She looked up and saw Cole was as well.  She smiled and waited for him to answer but realized he had no words.  Then she saw Phiny returning to the table so she moved back to her spot.

Phiny saw the awkward silence and tried to break it.  “Ahh, talking about me I see.”  Cole smiled a halfhearted smile but no one moved.  Phiny tried again.  “Well did someone die or what?”  Again no response.  Finally Tina’s sister Pam spoke.

“Phiny do you like to shop?  There’s this little shop over here on the corner that is having a sale.  They’ve got fabulous stuff.  Missy and I were planning on going back after we ate.  Would you like to join us?”

Phiny could see eight eyes waiting for her answer.  She could also see what they wanted it to be.  “Sure, I’d love to,” she said halfheartedly.

Tina mouthed “Thank you” to Pam and Missy as they left the table with Phiny.

Cole and Tina sat in silence for several minutes.  Cole could not even look at her.  Finally, Tina spoke up.  “Cole, please say something.  Anything!”

Cole looked at her with tears streaming down his face.  “Tina, you have put me in a very difficult place.  Everything in my wants to take you in my arms and love you for the rest of my life.  But because of my work, I can’t do that.  I can’t do this!”  He pulls his hand from hers and leaves.  Tina tries to stop him but it’s no use.  She chases after him.

It took almost 20 minutes before she found Cole sitting on the rocks down by the beach.  She approached, silently and sat down.  She sat there for a few minutes staring at the waves.  Then Cole turns to speak.  “Tina, I have prayed and dreamed of the day you would come into my life again and say those words to me.  I dreamed of how we would go off together and love each other for the rest of our lives.  When I saw you on the plane the other day, my heart finally seemed whole again, just from seeing you.  The void that was there since the day I left suddenly disappeared.  Tina that was the greatest feeling in the world.  Then you stepped things up and said those things to me today.  I suddenly realized I was whole again and God was giving us the second chance we both prayed for.”

Cole stopped, took a few deep breaths, and then continued as she stared into the ocean.  “Tina, unfortunately I am not in a position right now to move forward.  I am not even supposed to be talking to you at all, much less having a relationship with you.”  He turns to her.  “Believe me. If it were possible, I’d be all for it but it just can’t happen.  Not now.”

Cole stopped, turned away and buried his face in his hands.  Tina felt bad.  She never realized the place she had put Cole in.  Although she never meant for it to be so hard, she never thought how it would affect him.  She said a silent prayer that God would give her the words to say.  After a few moments, the words came.

“Cole, I never meant to put you in such a position.  I am sorry for that.  I really didn’t think of how his would affect you.  I can’t imagine how difficult this is for you.  You have obligations right now and I know you can’t abandon those not would I ask you to.  What kind of person would I be if I did that?  I told you those things because I wanted you to know how I felt.  I also wanted you to know that when things change and we can be together, that I am here waiting.  However long that is, I’ll be right here when you are ready.”

Cole was speechless.  Every time he took a breath to speak, nothing would come out.  Finally he quietly spoke.  “I have no idea when that is or even if it will happen.  I can’t ask you to wait.  I might be in this for the rest of my life, I am not sure there is a way out of the agency.  I couldn’t live with myself knowing you are waiting.  No Tina, I can’t ask you to do that!”

Tina took his left hand is hers.  She then took her right hand, turned his face toward her and held his cheek. “YOU ARE NOT ASKING!” 

Cole stared into her emerald green eyes.  He tired with all his might to hold back but he could not contain his emotions.  He grabbed Tina, pulled her in close and began kissing her.  He didn’t care who saw or if his cover was blown.  He wanted so much to be with Tina at that moment, he would give it all up.  They laid back on the huge rock and continued to kiss passionately as the waves began to splash up around them, almost washing them off the rock. 

Cole looked up momentarily and saw a huge storm cloud rolling in.  “We better get out of here,” he said.

Tina reached up and pulled him close.  “Just a little longer,” she whispered with a grin.  They kissed several more minutes.  Then the rain, thunder and lightning were coming in all around them.

Cole helped Tina up.  “Come on we’ve got to get out of here.”  They took off running for shelter as the rain pelted them.  Every time is thunder or lightened, Tina would squeeze Cole’s hand a little harder.  They ran into the closet open building.  They shook some of the rain off.  In the doorway, Cole turned to Tina.  “T, remember that rock, always.  It’s the place God brought us back together.  That’s our special rock.”  He kissed her and they moved inside.

It only took a couple of steps to realize the type of building they had ran into to escape the storm.  Cole looked at Tina and smiled.  Tina spoke first, “Wow what a beautiful church.  I didn’t know this was here.” 

Cole and Tina had ran right into a small chapel right on the beach.  There seemed to be no one around until they heard a voice that startled the both.

“Hello friends.  How can I be of service?”

His think Jamaican accent made them both smile.  Cole turned to the direction of the man.  “Sorry to bother you.  We were just getting out of the storm.  This a beautiful place.”

The man smiled.  “Ah God’s house is a refuge for all the storms life brings.  It is His beauty that exceeds all.  Please come.  I will bring you towels to dry yourselves.”  The man disappeared but quickly returned with two towels.

“Thank you sir,” Cole said as they took them. 

The man smiled.  “My wife is making coffee to warm you.  It will be ready shortly.  My name is James Greene.  I am the Pastor here at Rock of Refuge Christian Church.”

Cole smiled and extended to shake his hand.  “Thank you Pastor Greene.  My name is Don… Cole Connor and this is Tina Carpenter.  Nice to meet you.”  Tina was a bit surprised Cole used his real name.  She looked at him funny but he just smiled.

Pastor Greene was easy to talk to.  Cole and Tina sat there for over an hour sipping coffee and talking with him and his wife Ellen.  Cole told him more about the agency and the situation then he had told anyone else.  He told them about the relationship with Phiny, making Tina uncomfortable.  He also told them about him and Tina.  Pastor Greene offered advice and prayed over them both.  He then asked if he could speak to Cole alone.

Ellen and Tina went for a walk around the church.  They were quite until Ellen spoke, “Tina, don’t worry about this other woman.  There was a completely different look in his eyes when he spoke of you.  It is not love he feels for her.  He only thinks it is.”

Tina smiled but said nothing.

“Cole, you have told me many things about your life,” Pastor Greene said.  “I am sure many of these you have told no one.  Let me assure you, God knows best and He knows the desire of your heart.  If you are the righteous man I see and believe you are, God will give you those desires.”

Cole just sat there.  He was feeling free for the first time since he joined the agency.  Finally he spoke, “Pastor Greene, I truly believe God is using my experience in the agency to prepare me for his calling.  In the last year, with everything going on around me, I fell God is calling me to a great work.  I have been to so many places and seen so many people in need of God’s love, it breaks my heart, especially the children.”

Pastor Greene smiled, “Cole, do you believe in coincidence?”

Cole was a bit puzzled at his question.  “No sir, I do not.  I believe everything happens for a reason and God’s purpose.  Why do you ask?”

Pastor Greene grinned almost ear to ear as he stood and walked to the window.  “My wife and I have been praying earnestly for a young man to work with our orphanage ministry.  Ellen had a dream last night that God would reveal this person to us, today.  I believe He has.”  He turns back to Cole.  “You see, we have very specific needs for our ministry.  We need someone with travel experience because we actually go into other countries to get children who have a need or have been in and orphanage for a long time.  Children are adopted here rather quickly.  We need someone who is comfortable in other countries and can speak many of the languages.  I believe you could be that person.”

Cole sat stunned.  He was sure his jaw dropped as Pastor Greene spoke.  He tried to speak but nothing came.  Pastor Greene say down in front of him.  “I know it’s a lot.  Don’t worry about it now.  Just pray about it and when the Lord is ready, He will provide the way and guide you the right way.”

Just then Cole’s phone rang.  He had almost forgotten about his work.  He stepped to the front door of the church.  He could see Ellen and Tina heading back to the church as the sun come out again.  He heard Michael’s voice, “Donavan, we have a situation at the hotel.  You need to return ASAP.  There has been a security breech at the hotel.  The eldest son has been kidnapped.  Security is planning the next move.  I need you and Phiny to help them.  She will meet you there.”

Cole head dropped as he put the phone away.  He was getting use to things with Tina.  As Tina approached, she saw the look in his eyes and stopped, “What’s wrong?”

Cole took her hands.  “I have to go.  Duty calls.  I will call you later if I can.  If I can’t, please remember that I love you, Sweet T.” He gently kissed her lips and walked away with tears in his eyes.

Tina turned and watched him go in a stunned silence.  As tears rolled down her face, Ellen put her arm around her.  “He’s a changed man, dear.  God id working in him.  Just pray and give it time.  There is a plan.”

They stood there in silence until they could no longer see Cole.  Then Tina turned to Ellen and spoke.  “Thank you so much Mrs. Ellen.  I am glad God allowed us to become friends.  I will pray about what we talked about and will keep in touch.”  They hugged and Tina left to return to her hotel.

Cole met Phiny in the hotel lobby and they hurried up to the security room.  Cole was emotionally drained form the events of the day.  Now as the evening began, he had to get his mind back on the mission ahead.

The security team quickly briefed them and they were given assignments.  If had been over a year since Cole had been on security detail.  He didn’t like the idea of having to use a gun but would if he had to.  AS he strapped on his gear, he thought of Tina and the events of the afternoon.  He said a silent prayer about all of it and headed out.

Cole’s mission was to work with two other members of the security team and keep the rest of the family safe while trying to get them out of the country again.  Phiny would stay at the hotel and help at the Command Center.  Cole had been trained in personal project detail with the F.B.I. but this was only the second time he ever had to do it. 

As the Command Team gave the signal to begin moving the family, Cole felt his stomach knot up.  He swallowed hard and took his position.  He smiled a nervous smile at Abigail to try to reassure her things would be ok but was sure she could see the nervousness in his face.  As 8 year old Teresa saw Cole she smiled.  Cole tried to smile back but it was hard.  He wasn’t sure what was about to happen.

The Lawrence family minus 12 year old Henry, loaded into the vehicle along with Cole and the other two security officers.  They slowly pulled out of the parking garage and headed for a small airstrip on the other side of the island.  The 40 minute drive would be the most difficult part of the journey.  Within 2 blocks of the hotel, they were stuck in bumper to bumper traffic.  Cole felt like a sitting duck.

Soon a police officer came walking down the street stopping at each car to info the driver of the situation.  As he approached the vehicle, Cole and the family ducked in the back.  The van driver pulls out his gun and holds it down between the seats as he rolls down the window.  The officer pokes his head in.  “Evening gentlemen.  Sorry for the hold up.  We have a fruit truck loose his load.  They are just about finished cleaning it up.  We should be moving shortly.”  The officer leaves and the driver put his gun away.  As the officer gets to the back of the van, he squats down to tie his shoe.  The driver tells Cole and the family to stay down.  The officer gets up using the side of the van for help as the driver gets out to see what he is doing.  The officer smiles and waves as he talks of the radio.  Then he comes running back up, “We are moving.  Better get back in sir.”

The drier walks to the back of the van and quickly inspects where the officer put his hand.  He sees nothing and returns.  “I don’t see anything he might have put on there but never can be too careful,” he says as the roll forward. 

As they get where the accident was, Cole sees the officer leaning up against the light post smoking.  The van then turns the opposite way of most traffic toward the airstrip.

About 10 minutes later, Cole is almost asleep when he hears the driver say, “Be alert, we’ve got company.”  Cole looks out and sees three black sedans racing up behind them.  Within 30 seconds they are surrounded.  Cole hears the “FULL ALERT” call in his ear piece.

The driver floors the gas trying to get away but it is no use.  Cole tells the family to take cover.  Abigail gathers the children and they all lay on the floor.  As the cars surround them the van has to slow down.  They have him boxed in.

Suddenly the windows on the sedans roll down and out come automatic weapons and they open fire.  Cole and the other men return fire but are severely outnumbered.  The van is blanketed with bullets and eventually comes to a complete stop. 

Cole feels a numbness in his shoulder and leg.  Cole falls to the floor in pain. As he does, he feels a warm pool of blood covering the floor that is not form him.  He quickly asses the family. 

Abigail had been shot numerous times.  She is dead.  Teresa, the oldest girl was barely alive.  The two youngest were bloody but seemed ok.  Abigail and Teresa covered them to protect them.  Cole yells for the driver but gets no answer.  Finally the other agent in the passenger seat faintly says, “He’s dead and I may not make it.  Can you get us out of here?”

Cole drags himself to the driver seat.  “I think so.  I’ll see where they want us to go.”  Cole calls Command Team.  “Command this is Bear 2.  We took heavy fire and have 2 confirmed dead.  The rest are wounded.  Vehicle severely damaged but I believe drivable.  Waiting instructions.” 

After a few moments of silence, Cole hears the reply from a familiar voice.  “Bear 2 this is Command.  Be advised the plans have not changed.  You are to continue with the regular plan.”

Cole looked at the agent in the passenger seat who heard the same instructions.  Cole answered.  “Command this is Bear 2.  Phiny is that you?”

The reply came quickly.  “Yes Donavan.  The other agents took a break.  It’s me.”

Cole couldn’t believe what he was hearing.  The other agents wouldn’t take a break until the plane was off the ground.  “OK so let’s make sure I understand.  You want me to continue to the airstrip and continue as planned?”

Cole heard the urgency in Phiny’s answer.  “Yes, continue as planned.”

Cole acknowledged and turned off Comms.  Timothy was still fighting for his life in the seat next to him. 

He spoke faintly. “Donavan, something is not right.  We can’t continue to the airstrip.  We’ve got to get somewhere safe and find a doctor fast.”

Cole could think of only one place he felt safe and only one doctor.  He had to think fast in order to get there without being tracked by Command.  They needed a phone and a different vehicle.

“Timothy, you relax and hang in there.  I’ll get us somewhere.  I just got to find some new wheels.”  Cole drove ahead a few miles.  He saw a small gas station ahead.  He pulled in quickly and spotted an old bus out back.  He hobbled inside. 

The attendant was standing behind the counter.  “Hello sir, how can I help you?”

Cole limped to the counter.   “Does that old bus out back run?”

The man laughed, “Sure just needs some gas.”

Cole pulls out his money roll. “How much you take for it and a full tank of gas?”

The man looks in almost disbelief.  “$500 American dollars for the bus and I’ll give you the gas for free.”

Cole lays $500 on the counter.  “Do you have a phone I can use?”

“There is a pay phone out front,” he says. 

Cole thanks him as he takes the bus key and limps out the door. 

He quickly dials the number.  Finally there is an answer.  “T its Cole.  Listen, I can’t explain right now but meet me at the church with any medical supplies you have.  I’ll be there in about 20 minutes.  Ok?”

Cole waits for and answer.  “Sure, I’ll be right there,” Tina says.

Cole hangs up and painfully moves all the bodies and wounded to the bus.  He fills it with gas and takes off to the church.

Chapter 10

Timothy was fading fast.  If he didn’t get help soon, he would die.  The cloth Cole had put on his wound was now completely blood soaked.  They were still several miles from the church.  Cole, who had been shot in the left thigh and left shoulder, was running on pure adrenaline.  He knew his injuries were bad.  He cried out in pain each time he had to shift gears. 

At a stop light, he managed to cut his pants leg off and applied it to Timothy’s wound.  His own were bleeding badly but he didn’t have time to attend to them.  Behind them he heard Teresa cry out in pain.  He was glad to know she was still alive. 

Cole sighed a bit of relief when he saw the church steeple in the distance.  He pressed the gas a little harder and the bus sputtered a bit.  Timothy’s breathing had become very labored.  Cole was sure he had only a few minutes.  As she pulled into the back parking lot, Cole frantically honked the horn.  Soon Pastor Greene and Tina came out the back door.  Cole jumped off the bus dragging Timothy in his arms. 

“Pastor Greene, get the girl in the front seat.  Have Ellen get the two younger kids and check them out.  I think they are ok just bloody and scared.”  Just then, Ellen came running out the door.

Cole laid Timothy on the floor in the back room of the church.  Tina was right behind him.  “Cole are you ok?  Looks like you’ve been hit.”

Cole ripped opened Timothy’s shirt to expose his injury.  “Yes I am fine.  I know this isn’t usually your stuff but I really need your help.”

Tina smiled and assessed Timothy’s injuries as Pastor Greene laid Teresa down beside him.  “Tina, I think she is gone.”

Tina leaned over to check.  Somberly she said, “Yes, she’s gone.”

Pastor Greene said a prayer as Tina closed Teresa’s eyes.  Cole began to cry.

“Pastor Greene, can you help me get the other two bodies out of the bus?  Tina, we will be right back.”

Cole and Pastor Greene carry Abigail and the other agent in and lay them on the floor.  Cole immediately kneels down beside Tina as Pastor Greene begins to clean the three bodies.  “How’s he doing, T?”

Tina sighs, “Not good.  I am surprised he has lasted this long.  Cole, there is just too much damage.  I’m sorry there is nothing I can do.”

Cole stood up and walked to the wall.  He puts both hands on the wall and lowered his head.  “That double crosser!  I can’t believe I fell for it!”

Tina follows Cole and puts her hand on his shoulder.  “What are you talking about?”

Cole turns and leans his right side on the wall.  “Phiny double crossed me!  All this time she made me believe we had something and boom!  I can’t believe I let it happen.”

Tina was surprised.  “Are you sure it was her?”

Cole flexes his left arm in pain.  “Yes, it had to be.  Nothing else makes sense.”

Tina reaches up and touches Cole’s wound.  “You better let me look at that.  If not you might lose that arm.”

Cole starts taking off his shirt as Tina gets her bag.  Before Tina gets back to him, Cole faints.  Tina panics and yells, “Pastor Greene, help!”

Pastor Greene runs over and helps Tina move Cole to the blanket laying on the floor.  “He’s lost a lot of blood,” Tina says.  “We’ve got to get him some or we may lose him.  Check his I.D. to see if his blood type is on there.”

Pastor Greene looks through Cole pockets.  “Here it is.  Say A+”

Tina listens to his heart.  “Very slow rate.  We’ve gotta move.  What blood type are you?”

“I am B but Ellen is A+.  I’ll get her,” he says as he gets up.

Ellen comes running in from the other room with Pastor Greene trailing behind.  “Where do you need me sweetie?”

Tina smiles and points to the blanket beside Cole.  “Pastor Greene, I’ll need your help.  DO you guys have any small tubing of any kind?”

Pastor Greene thinks and replies, “not that I can think of?”

Tina sighs.  “What about straws?  Do you have several straws?”

Ellen speaks up.  “There are straws in the children’s craft supplies.”

“Great!” Tina replied.  “Get them and tape them together end to end with this tape.”

Pastor Greene takes the roll of tape and heads out.  Tina begins to get to work.  “Ellen, while he is doing that, I’ll need your help.  I have to get these bullets out and sew him up before giving him the blood.”

Tina give Ellen instructions on what to do.  Tina works carefully to get the bullet out of Cole’s shoulder.  “This one is in deep.  I will probably cause more damage taking it out then it did going it.”

“Could you leave it in,” Ellen asks.

Tina hesitates.  “I could but I am afraid on infection and it moving.  I’d rather take it out and deal with the damage later.  Hopefully a good surgeon can repair any damage.”  Tina takes a deep breath and pushes her instrument into Coles shoulder.  “Here goes!”  She works diligently trying to grab the bullet.  “Almost got it.  Ellen can you pull this open a bit more?  There!”  Tina pulls the bullet out.  “Now just clean and sew up this one and on to the leg.”

Tina assess the injury.  “Looks like this one went all the way through.  Luckily it missed the bone and major muscles.  Maybe some small issues but just a clean and sew up on both sides should be fine.”

“Found the straws,” Pastor Greene announces as he enters the room.

“Great!” Tina replies.  “I need you to make two different tubes about five straws long.  Now we just need something to pump the blood down the tubes.”

“We just brought a new fish tank.  Would the pump from that work?” Ellen asks.

“It might,” Tina replies.  “Only one way to find out.”

Ellen rushes to get the pump.  She returns just as Pastor Greene finishes taping up the last straw. 

“Let’s see how this works,” Tina says.  “Can you bring me a glass of water?”  Tina tapes a needle to one end of each of the straws.  As Ellen sets the water down, Tina attaches the straws to the pump.  She puts the needle into the glass.  “Pastor, plug it in.”

The motor kicks on and within seconds water is coming out the other needle.  “It works!”  Tina yells.  “It’s slow but it should be enough.”  Pastor Greene unplugs it as Tina continues.  “OK Ellen, I am sure this will be a bit painful,” she says as Ellen lays next to Cole.  “I will only do it until I feel he has enough.  If at any time you feel funny, let me know.”

Tina stuck the needle into Ellen’s arm and the other into Cole’s.  She then nodded to Pastor Greene to plug in the pump.  The blood slowly moved up one tube, through the pump and down into the tube in Cole’s arm.  The pump sputtered a few times.  Tina just prayed it would work long enough to make a difference. 

After about 10 minutes, the sputtering become more frequent.  Within a few more minutes, the pump stopped completely.  “The blood is just too thick for it,” Tina said.  Pastor Greene unplugged the pump as Tina took the needle from Ellen’s arm.  “Lay there and keep pressure on this,” Tina told her.  Tina gently pulled the needle out of Cole’s arm and taped it up.  She checked his heart rate.  “Rate is still slow but better.  I hope we got enough.  How are the two younger children?”

Ellen took a drink of the juice Pastor Greene brought her.  “They are fine.  Only found a few scratches and minor cuts.  Most of the blood was someone else’s.  I cleaned them up and they went right to sleep on the pallet I made them.  What do you suppose happened?”

“I have no idea,” Tina answered as she covered Cole up.  “Only one person can tell up.”

Pastor Greene knelt beside Cole.  “Ladies, let us pray for our brother.”

They all laid a hand on Cole and joined hands.  Pastor Greene spoke a very elegant prayer for Cole’s health and the entire situation. 

By the time the sun began to peak through the church windows, Tina was exhausted.  She had stayed up all night listening to Cole’s breathing and checking his heart rate.  He had not stirred since he fainted.  Tina prayed.  She prayed for Cole, she prayed for the two little children and she prayed for her own strength and safety.  She didn’t know what had happened to Cole or if the person who did it would be looking for him and take them all out.

 As Tina check his heart again, Ellen came in.  “How’s he doing sweetie?”  she asked.

“Not much change I can tell.  How are you?”  Tina asked as she ran her fingers through Cole’s blood stain hair.

“I am good,” Ellen told her.  “You look exhausted.  Why don’t you go rest in my bed and I’ll watch him.  Remember I am a retired nurse.  I can handle it.”  Ellen chuckled hoping to convince Tina to rest.

“Yes I know,” Tina said continuing to stroke Cole’s hair.  “I am grateful for your help last night.  I think I will rest but first I need to shower.  Would you have something I can change into?”

“Sure sweetie,” Ellen smiled.  “I thought you might want something.  I already laid several things out on the bed.  Help yourself.”  Tina gave Ellen a hug as she left the rom.

The warm water felt good on Tina’s tired body.  It helped relax the muscles but not the worry.  After the shower, she quickly called her sisters with the update.  She left them in such a panic when Cole first called her, she didn’t want them to worry.  She told them she’d call later if anything changed.  As she slipped into bed, she said another prayer for Cole.  Just as she said “Amen,” she fell fast asleep with tears rolling down her cheeks and onto the pillow.