Date: Mon, 27 Aug 2012 09:46:01 -0600
From: Michael king <thewriter1@live.ca>
Subject: Lives changed chapter 7-A

Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. The people do not exist except in my
mind. This work is copyrighted and I ask that you do not copy, post or
electronically download without my express permission. If you are too young
to be in here or it is illegal in your state, then please leave, as I do
not wish anything bad to happen to you.


NOTE:

I know that we all enjoy these pages and wish for them to be here for a
long time. We, the writers, take pride in being able to give you all a few
minutes of pleasure. So please think of the time spent putting these pages
up and donate just a bit to Nifty so we can keep going. I want to take this
time also to thank everyone that has sent me a note. A special thanks to
Larry in California for editing and also to a great writer and friend,
Miguel Sanchez.


LIVES CHANGED CHAPTER 7-A

Early Tuesday morning, the slamming of a cell door awakened Elizabeth
Daniels. The harsh glare of the overhead lights blinded her for a moment as
she slowly sat up. It was mealtime for the inmates and Elizabeth knew that
it was going to be her only food until dinner at five. Today she had to be
in court and she was prepared for it, although she knew she wouldn't likely
be getting out of jail unless that dimwit lawyer she had had come up with
some sort of defense for her.

Breakfast over, Elizabeth was handcuffed and shackled, led out to the
Marshal's car and placed into the back seat. The drive was short, but it
felt good to be able to look out a window and see people and trees,
something that Elizabeth hadn't been able to do for the last month.

In her holding cell at the courthouse, Elizabeth paced the floor,
constantly rubbing her hands together. Why she was so nervous she didn't
know, but she was. Trying to relax, Elizabeth kept telling herself that
this was just a minor offense and she would likely get probation, and maybe
a fine. She had been in the cell for just over an hour when U.S Marshal
Tina Hernandez came walking up. "Daniels, it's time. Get yourself over
here," Hernandez ordered.

"Where's my damn lawyer?" Elizabeth spat. "I haven't had a chance to talk
with him yet."

"He's waiting in the courtroom for you. Now move it; the judge doesn't like
to be kept waiting."

"Too bad, I'll take my sweet time, if you don't mind."

"I do mind! You're not the only one I have to deal with today, so don't
piss me off."

Judge Olivia Frost wasn't a woman you wanted to be on the wrong side
of. Many who stood before her had felt her wrath when they failed to follow
proper court procedures or were lacking in evidence. Today, Judge Frost was
feeling more than a little irate. She had already dealt with three other
cases, two of which she had remanded the person into custody and the third
had given a $200,000 bail. She now had to deal with not only another child
abuse case, but one that involved perjury and disturbing the peace as
well. When Elizabeth Daniels was brought into the courtroom the judge
looked up from reading her file and frowned.

"Mrs. Daniels, I see here that you have a habit of shooting-off your
mouth. I will warn you right now: I will not tolerate such behavior and the
first time you do it I will have you gagged. Do we understand each other?"

"Yes, Your Honor," Elizabeth answered with disdain in her voice.

"Good. Now let's get started. Mr. Edwards, please state what you have."

"Your Honor, I have been asked to seek your permission for the Attorney
General to speak before the court," Mr. Edwards stated.

"Very well, Mr. Chatham, please come forward," the Judge ordered.

"Good morning, Judge Frost. I am sorry for interrupting these proceedings,
but I feel that I must." Turning to the prosecution table her continued,
"Mr. Edwards, I am hereby ordering you to turn over this case to District
Attorney Dylan Masters. You are hereby suspended from the practice of law
until such time as the Florida Bar Association has investigated and dealt
with alleged unethical conduct on your part. Please leave the courtroom,"
Chatham announced, then turned back to face the judge. "Again, Your Honor,
I apologize that this could not occur earlier and outside of court.

"Mr. Masters. Are you ready to proceed on these charges?" the judge asked.

"We are, Your Honor, and we are adding more charges against Mrs. Daniels at
this time, also."

"What?" Elizabeth screeched.

"Your Honor, in addition to the child abuse, perjury and disturbing the
peace charges already on file, we are adding three counts of conspiracy to
commit murder against her own son, and one count of conspiracy to commit
the murder of her brother-in-law, Marcus Daniels. Further, we are also
charging Elizabeth Daniels with two counts of conspiracy to commit grand
theft, one count of which was against her own son and one count which was
against the state of Florida," Masters spoke up.

"Mrs. Daniels, how do you plead to the charges that have been brought
against you?" Judge Frost asked.

Knowing that she was likely to lose anyways, Elizabeth glared at her
lawyer, Mr. Jeffries. "I want a deal. Make it happen," she hissed.

"Your Honor, Mr. Jefferies for the defendant. At this time we wish to delay
our plea until I have had a chance to speak with Mr. Masters," Jefferies
advised the court.

"Very well. Mrs. Daniels, you will remain in custody until your next
appearance, which will be next Tuesday morning at 9:00 o'clock. Case
adjourned," the judge agreed as she pounded down her gavel.

As Elizabeth was taken back in her holding cell, Jordan Martin was being
led into the Juvenile Court. Judge Spencer was sitting behind the bench
when Jordan was brought in and, looking up, he gave a slight smile.

"Your Honor, Emilio Ortega for the State."

"Mr. Thomas, for the defendant, Your Honor," Thomas stood and announced.

"Mr. Ortega, state your case," Judge Spencer ordered.

"Yes, Your Honor. The State is charging Jordan Martin with three counts of
assault and one count of perjury. The assault happened within the school
that he attended at the time," Ortega stated.

"Mr. Martin, how do you plead to these charges?" the judge asked.

"Your Honor, I plead guilty. I know my lawyer is supposed to be the one to
talk, but he wants to put this off for a while, but I want it over with,"
Jordan spoke up.

"Mr. Ortega, what is the state recommending."

"Well, Your Honor we weren't expecting this, but if Mr. Martin is willing
to accept the responsibility for his actions then I would recommend
probation until he is eighteen, plus 150 hours of community service."

"Mr. Martin, several months ago you came into this very courtroom suing a
young man for defending himself. Now you stand here and admit that you took
part in the abuse and bullying. I don't know whether I believe your
sincerity or not, but I am willing to give you a chance. Therefore, I
sentence you to 300 hours of community services with status reports to me
every two weeks until such time as you have completed the hours. I am also
sentencing you to probation until you are eighteen. If at any time you are
brought back before this or any other court, you will be remanded to jail
until such time as you turn twenty-one. Do you understand?" Judge Spencer
asked.

"Yes, Your Honor, I understand, and I accept your ruling."

"Case dismissed. You can get your paperwork at the front desk."

When Jordan heard the gavel drop he turned to his lawyer. "Mr. Thomas, how
soon until I'm released?" Jordan asked.

"Well, Jordan, it will take about an hour to get the paperwork, so I would
say ninety minutes," Mr. Thomas replied.

"Good, I have some things I need to do and they can't wait," Jordan said
with a smile.

=====<>=====

Over at the hospital, Brady Martin's condition was improving. The doctors
removed the breathing tube the previous evening and now Brady was able to
speak, though his words sounded harsh and grated. The doctors assured him
that his voice would get back to normal within a few days. The guard,
overhearing this, called over to the Naples PD.

"Naples Police dispatch, how may I direct your call?" the dispatcher asked.

"May I speak with Lieutenant Liza Patterson please?" the guard answered.

"One moment, sir."

"Patterson here, how can I help you?" Liza answered after the first ring of
her phone.

"Lieutenant Patterson, this is Lei Toshido, one of the people you have
guarding Brady Martin."

"Yes, Mr. Toshido, have there been any changes?"

"Yes, Lieutenant, they have removed his breathing tube and he has started
talking. Also, his cousin, Jordan Martin, has been in a few times to see
him, and I don't know what is happening, but Brady seems very agitated
after these visits."

"Do you think Brady will talk with the police?"

"I'm not sure."

Very well. I have a bit of paper work here to finish then I will personally
come over and speak with him."

"What should I do if his cousin shows up?"

"Nothing. I gave Jordan Martin permission to see Brady, but maybe you could
try to catch something of what is being said or done."

"I think I know what you are looking for. I'll see what I can do."

"Thank-you, Mr. Toshido."

When Jordan walked out of the Naples police station, he had a huge smile on
his face. "Dumb idiots! Lawyers and judges are so gullible and that damn
ADA — I bet he was crapping his pants, when I plead guilty like that. Oh
well, time to see how Brady's doing and warn him again not to talk," Jordan
thought to himself as he walked down the street to the nearest bus stop.

=====<>=====

Dylan Masters had his hands full. He had to try and convict six people on
embezzlement charges, three on conspiracy to commit murder, and a
fourth—if they ever found the bastard. He was going over the files in
the courtroom waiting for the break to end when his friend Thomas Chatham
walked over.

"How does it look, Dylan?" Thomas asked.

"Like crap. I know we have Agent Jackson on record as a witness for the
state, but we need more than just him. Sure, everything in his files is
evidence, but where is another witness?" Dylan said in a tense whisper.

"I don't know. I do know you need someone to back up what Jackson will say,
or this whole thing could go south on you."

"I know. I'm going to have move for a continuance."

"If you do that, they could all get out on bail and there is a great risk
that they could flee the country."

"I agree, but what else can I do? I could ask for the surrender of their
passports and electronic monitoring, but then their lawyers would argue
that I am just over-reacting."

"Well, do the best you can. I really don't think you have too much to worry
about, you have Judge Frost on your side," Thomas laughed.

"That is a nasty thought, Thomas. Maybe I should set you and Frost up on a
blind date. When I get done here let me buy you lunch, I have something to
tell you."

"Sure, I can always go for a free meal."

"Let's meet at that little restaurant just down the street from here, I
hear they have great soups."

I'll see you there. Now get to work."

=====<>=====

The Daniels and Jacobs families were enjoying their time on the campaign
bus. Patrick, with Aaron on his lap and Zeke sitting beside him, was busy
watching a movie, while Malcolm and his dad were trying to write out their
speeches for their first campaign rally. Though the drive from Naples to
Tampa was just over two hours, it seemed as if it was taking
forever. Robert Jacobs, Jr. and his sisters were sitting up front playing
video games and Emily and Robert, Sr. were quietly talking in the
back. "Hey, Dad," Malcolm called out, "Did we bring anything to drink?"

"I don't think we did. Remind me to get a cooler in Tampa and fill it with
juice for everyone," Richard answered.

"Okay. How are you doing on your first attempt at speechwriting?"

"It's a lot harder than I thought it would be, but I will manage."

"Well, if you need help, ask Aaron to write it for you," Malcolm laughed.

"He probably could write one better than his oldest brother," Richard shot
back.

"Ouch, shot to the core."

"That will teach you to try to outsmart me."

"That's not hard to do; you're old and feeble."

"I'll old and feeble you when the bus stops, young man," Richard laughed as
he gently swatted the back of Malcolm's head.

Tony Marchand and Donnie Osbourne were in the lead vehicle. Donnie was
driving and concentrating on the traffic around him, so he failed to notice
Tony's worried expression. "Donnie, we are going to need more than the
eight men we have. It would be different if it was just Malcolm and his
dad, but we have two families here and both are targets."

"So what are you going to do?" Donnie asked.

"The only thing I can do is call the Florida Highway Patrol and see if they
can give us some help."

"You will need them for all the planned stops, not just in Tampa."

"I know, but will the state let us have the officers we'll need? That's
what has me worried, plus the fact we don't know if we can even trust
them."

"After the fiasco with the Naples Police, I wouldn't know. The one thing
you have to do is call them and find out."

"I'll do that, but first I think I will give Ace a call and see what he
thinks."

Tony had just grabbed his phone to make his call when Donnie's voice
stopped him. "What the hell?" Donnie screamed as he watched the bus behind
him veer hard to the right and slam into a light standard and tree,
buckling the front of the bus and breaking some of the windows. The front
door crumpled in on itself. For Malcolm and the families on board the
jarring slam shook them and little Aaron who was still on Patrick's knee
hit the back of the seat in front of him causing his nose to bleed. "What
the hell just happened?" Tony screamed as he and Donnie ran back towards
the bus, where the other agents were standing and holding back the
onlookers.

"I don't know, sir," Agent Fairweather started, "I heard a loud bang and
the next thing I knew was the bus was careening over the road and slammed
into the light pole and tree."

"Have you tried to check on the passengers? Are any of them hurt?" Donnie
asked as he tried to open the door.

"No, we just started keeping the people away," Godson spoke up.

"Agent Godson what is, and has always been, our first priority?" Tony
snapped

"The protection of the innocent, and in this case that is the people on the
bus."  That stopped Tony short. He knew Godson was right, but those boys on
the bus were his main concern. "You're right, and I apologize for doubting
you. Now call the Florida Highway Patrol and have them send out at least a
dozen troopers and see if they can bring a new bus with them. If they give
you hassles refer them to me and I will deal with it."

"Yes, sir. I hope the families are all right."

"So do I," Tony whispered as he walked over to the crumpled bus. Tony was
about to call out when one of the side windows came flying out and down,
crashing a few feet from where he stood.

"Agent Marchand, are you out there?" Richard called out.

"Yes, Mr. Daniels, I'm here. Just wait and we will have you out in a few
minutes. Is anyone hurt?" Tony called back.

"Just a bloody nose for Aaron and some rattled nerves."

"Does Aaron need medical attention?" Donnie asked.

"No, we have it under control.

"Daddy, how's Midnight? He don't like the bus," Aaron asked around the
cloth that he held against his nose.

"Midnight is fine; he's just a little scared, like you are," Richard
answered.

"I not scared; I'm a big boy."

"That you are, Aaron. Now what do you say we get you off this bus and onto
the ground?" Robert Sr. asked as he walked up.

"How?" Aaron asked.

I will hand you out the window to agent Marchand and he will help you down,
then we will do it with you brothers and Patrick."

"Okies, but don't dwop me."

"I would never do that to you," Robert Sr. said.

"Agent Marchand, I am going to hand the children out to you, can you get
them?" Richard asked.

"Yes, just take it slow and I will catch them," Tony called back.

While Tony's help to get everyone out of the bus, Godson called the Florida
Highway Patrol headquarters.

"Florida Highway Patrol, How may I help you?" the dispatcher asked.

"This is Special Agent Brian Godson of the Secret Service. I need at least
twelve of your Officers to assist in a bus accident just off the highway
leading into Tampa."

"Sir, we deal with accidents. I will dispatch one of the Highway Patrol
Officers to you," the dispatcher stated flatly.

"Officer, maybe I didn't make myself clear, I not am asking for one the
Highway Patrol Officer, I am asking for twelve of your officers and I want
them dispatched right now," Godson snapped.

"Please hold, Agent Godson."

"This is Superintendent Iverson. What seems to be the problem Agent
Godson?"

"Sir, I am requesting a dozen of your officers to help with a bus accident
and the protection of the passengers. Your dispatcher thinks I am blowing
smoke. Now may I have them or should I call my boss over, who will in turn
call his boss and that will lead right back to your desk?" Godson spoke,
holding back his temper.

"Agent Godson, would you care to tell me who these passengers are and why
they are so important?" Iverson asked.

"Sir, they are the Daniels and Jacobs families and they are under the
protection of the Secret Service, by orders from the White House."

"That wouldn't be Malcolm Daniels would it?"

"Yes, sir, it would be."

"How long are you going to need these officers?"

"Honestly, sir, for about three weeks."

"WHAT? You think I am going to give up a dozen officers to the Secret
Service for three weeks? You must be bloody crazy," Iverson yelled into the
phone.

"I assure you, sir, that I am not bloody crazy. I however shall pass you on
to my supervisor who will talk to you." Brian stated as he walked over to
where Tony was standing. "Sir, would you kindly talk to this jackass?"
Brian asked as he handed his phone over.

"Okay, to whom am I speaking?" Tony asked Brian.

"His name is Iverson, he is the State Police Superintendent."

"Okay, you help Donnie and keep the families together. Oh, and make sure
that Aaron's pup gets out also."

"Yes, sir."

"Superintendent Iverson, this is Special Agent Tony Marchand. Am I to
understand that you are refusing to honor a Secret Service request to send
your officers out to this accident scene and to stay with these people for
the next three weeks?" Tony asked.

"I didn't say that they would not be sent to the accident scene, I just
don't think they are needed for three weeks for some upstart smart-mouthed
kid."

"Very well then. You better put on your iron britches because you'll soon
be getting a phone call from my superior in Washington."

"And who just might your superior be that I should be worried about?"

"He's the Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Presidential Security
Detail." Tony said as he closed the phone and handed it back to Brian.

Taking out his own phone, Tony hit the one-touch number for Ace. As it was
ringing, Tony stepped away from the group. "Mason here, what's up Tony?"
Ace answered after seeing whom it was on Caller ID.

"Ace, we have a problem. Is there a chance you could let me talk with the
President?"

"I'm pretty sure we can do that, but what is the problem?"

"Well, the bus that was carrying the Jacobs and Daniels families has been
in an accident. When we called for the state troopers, both Agent Godson
and I were rebuffed by the Superintendent, and on top of that he actually
called Malcolm an upstart smart-mouthed kid."

"So, why do you need to speak with the President?"

"Well, I told Superintendent Iverson—that's the man's name, by the
way—that he would be getting a call from my boss. But I was thinking; I
know that many of the people in Washington like Malcolm and the President
and his family are among the most admiring. So, my thought was to have the
President call and give the guy the butt chewing he deserves."

"Damn it, Tony, what is it with you? You are starting to sound like Malcolm
is more than just a protection job. Hold on a second, Tony, I am at the
President's reception desk."

"Yes, sir."

"Frank, is it possible to speak with the President for a few minutes?' Ace
asked Frank Harris, Ben's personal secretary.

"Let me check, Agent Mason."

"Thank-you."

"Agent Mason, you may go in," Frank said as he hung up his phone.

"Thank-you, Frank. Tony are you still there?" Ace asked into his phone.

"Yes, Ace."

"Good, we have a few minutes, but that is all."

"Ace, I wouldn't do this if I thought just using the President's name would
work, But this guy is really full of himself."

"I'm glad you didn't do it that way. By the way, was anyone hurt?"

"Nothing too bad. Aaron got himself a bloody nose, but that is all."

"Do you think this was another attempt on Malcolm's life?"

"Hard to say right now, but I doubt it."

"Good. Okay, state what you just told me so that the President can hear
it."

"Sir, we were just about to enter the turnoff leading into Tampa, Florida
when the bus started careening over the road and then hit a light pole and
tree. No one was hurt, other than Aaron getting a bloody nose. When Agent
Godson called the Florida Highway Patrol dispatch, he was told that they
would send out one Officer to the accident. When Godson spoke with the
superintendent, he was called bloody crazy. When I spoke with the same
superintendent, I was told that there was no way that he would assign a
dozen officers to help with the protection of these families. He went so
far as to call Malcolm an upstart smart-mouthed kid. Honestly, sir, I think
if he could have gotten away with it he would have called Malcolm a few
other names as well," Tony told the President.

"So, why bring this to my office?" Ben asked.

"Sir, I know how much you like and admire Malcolm. In fact, sir, when I was
told I was going to be doing this job, I almost refused. Now, sir, I would
give my life for that young man. Mr. President, Malcolm Daniels is like the
son I lost a few years back. I know I might be getting too emotionally
attached to this duty, but I want Malcolm to have a better chance than my
son did."

"Agent Marchand, I promise you that within the next ten minutes you will
have your Florida highway Patrol and I guarantee you that they will follow
your orders or they will be standing before me personally," Ben said as
calmly as he could.

"Sir, I am sorry for bringing this to your office," Tony said.

"Nonsense. If you hadn't, I know that Agent Mason would have. Besides, this
gives me something to do other than read papers and sign things," Ben
laughed.

"Well, again I thank-you, sir, and you also, Agent Mason."

"That's what I'm here for, Tony," Ace said as he headed back out of Ben's
office. "Tony, is there any word on the fire at the Jacobs home?" Ace asked
when he was outside and away from everyone.

"Nothing yet, but I doubt that we will hear anything for a while. I left
Agent Real back at the Daniels home with the grandfather, and don't worry,
I have a friend on the Naples police force also keeping his eyes open,"
Tony replied.

"Okay, but I still want the report as soon as it's done."

"I told the fire Marshall that and he said he would fax it to you."

Good. Now go look after those boys."

The call ended, Tony walked back over to where the two families were
sitting. Aaron was still holding the cloth to his nose and Midnight was
lying at his feet. Tony walked over. "Aaron, are you okay, buddy?" Tony
asked.

"Uh huh, but my nose hurts," Aaron mumbled.

"We'll have it looked at very soon, okay?" Tony asked as he ruffled Aaron's
hair.

Getting just a nod from Aaron, Tony walked over to where agents Brian
Godson and Lloyd Fairweather stood and started talking with them.

=====<>=====

In the Oval Office, Ben Jacobs sat for a minute after listening to what
agents Marchand and Mason had told him, and he was fuming inside. Grabbing
his phone, he called the Florida Highway Patrol. "Good afternoon, Florida
Highway Patrol headquarters. How may I direct your call?" a young female
voice answered.

"This is President Ben Jacobs. I would like to speak with Superintendent
Iverson, please?"

"One moment, please."

"Superintendent Iverson here, what can I do for you?"

"Mr. Iverson, this is President Ben Jacobs. I wish to know why it is that
you refused to offer the assistance requested by some of my agents."

"I never said I would refuse, just that he couldn't have them for three
weeks on protection duty."

"I see, so the Highway Patrol no longer protects those who are running for
governor."

"Now see here. We take our job very seriously. I was asked for men to
protect the Daniels and Jacobs families. I wasn't told anything about
anyone there running for the governor's seat. I am not sending men out to
protect some spoiled little brat."

"It doesn't matter to me what you were told. You were asked to assist
Secret Service agents and you refused. You also told my agent that you
would not send out officers to help some upstart, smart-mouthed
kid. Mr. Iverson, I am telling you to send out those officers right
now. Further, they are to stay with the families until I say
differently. Do I make myself clear?" Ben snapped. "Furthermore I shall be
talking with the lieutenant Governor and advising him of your actions."

"Yes, sir, I will get them out there right away," Iverson whimpered.

=====<>=====

Maurice Marshall knew that the police were looking for him. Ever since he
left Naples, Maurice had been hiding in small towns along the coast, using
a different name in each one. He had been following Malcolm's progress
through the news, so when he heard that Malcolm was going to be running for
the Commissioner of Education, Maurice knew he had to do something to stop
him. He had tried contacting his adopted son, Jamie, but the phone had been
disconnected, so he went back and drove by his old house. It was vacant. It
didn't seem to faze him. Maurice needed to know where Malcolm was going to
be; he needed to get rid of the kid before Malcolm got elected. It was just
by luck that Maurice caught the morning news and that Amelia Jenkins had
let slip that Malcolm and his dad would be in Tampa, Florida for a rally
that evening. Maurice was living in Tampa at the time so he knew that the
convention center would be where the rally would be held and Maurice also
knew that it would be televised, with coverage starting at 6 PM.

Racing back to Tampa, Maurice raced to the Convention Center and was able
to secure a ticket for the middle seat in the front row, right in front of
where Malcolm would be standing. "A perfect place to try and get rid of the
kid," Maurice thought to himself.

=====<>=====

As Maurice was getting himself ready for the rally, Sylvia Rogers (Malcolm
and Patrick's English teacher), was sitting in a hotel room, also waiting
for the rally. She had used her influence as Malcolm's teacher and
connections to the local and state school boards to be asked to host the
first rally. Sylvia put on a great show of gratitude and acceptance, when
in truth it was because it was her chance to ruin Malcolm's chance at the
Commissioner of Education position.

Earlier that morning, Sylvia went to a salon and had her hair dyed a golden
blonde. Now she was sitting in her room going through the little purse that
she would be taking with her. Inside was her makeup and personal ID, but
she also had her husband's little .38 police special. Sylvia had learned to
load and fire the thing when she first met Donald Rogers and now she was
going to use it. Making sure it was loaded, Sylvia put it back in her
handbag and then called down for an early dinner knowing that she had to be
at the convention center before everyone else started to show.

=====<>=====

Back at the accident scene, Tony was talking with Godson and
Fairweather. Malcolm stood up and was walking around looking at the mess
the bus was in when he saw a group of cars with lights flashing racing up
the ramp towards him. He immediately headed back to the group and sat down
beside Aaron.

"How's Midnight, bro?"

"He's okay," Aaron answered. "Why did the bus do that, Malcolm?"

"I don't know, buddy. It was just an accident and we are all okay. That is
what matters."

"Uh huh, I'm glad you're my big brother."

"I'm glad both you and Zeke are my brothers..." Malcolm started to say when
he was interrupted.

"Excuse me, young man, but where can I find Agent Marchand?" a female
trooper asked.

"He's over there with those two other men," Malcolm pointed.

"Is the young man okay?" she asked just before turning to walk away.

"Yes, he's fine, officer. He just got a bloody nose."

"Good. I will be right back."

Walking over to the group of men Malcolm had pointed out, the trooper
stopped and waited for a minute. "Excuse me," she finally said, "Which one
of you is Agent Marchand?"

"I am. What can I do for you, Lieutenant?" Tony asked as he introduced
himself.

"We were ordered out here to help with an accident scene and to help
protect two families. I am Lieutenant Casey Watkins. I'm in charge here."

"You mean you were in charge. Until the families are in their hotel rooms
and you have been briefed on your duties, I am in charge. If I am not
available you will ask for Agent Donnie Osbourne, my second in command. Is
that understandable Lieutenant?" Tony stated without preamble.

"Yes, sir. Now, what is it that we have to do?" Watkins asked.

"First, we need to get these families out of here, then we need to get
another bus. After that, you and your officers will be protecting Richard
Daniels and the Jacobs family. If Patrick Jacobs is going to be with
Malcolm Daniels, I will let you know and then Patrick will be under the
protection of the Secret Service."

"Very good, sir. I'll see if we can get a van brought out. Do you know
which hotel the families are staying at?"

"Yes, they are registered at the Tampa Marriot Hotel and Marina."

"That's great because they have shuttle vans. I can call and have then send
out three, it should take about twenty minutes."

"We need something sooner than that. What we can do it use our vehicles. I
think that between our two Secret Service cars and maybe five of your
vehicles we can get them to the hotel faster. Their bags can be brought
over after they are in their rooms."

=====<>=====

In Naples, the courthouse was suddenly abuzz with voices talking softly as
a tall white-haired gentleman walked in off the street. Greg Walkerton was
one of the most successful, and expensive, trial lawyers in the state of
Florida. To hire Walkerton one first had to put up a $50,000 retainer, then
his time was billed at $2,500 an hour.

Walkerton walked into the courtroom and went right up to the front and sat
at the defendants table. Looking towards the prosecution's side he saw that
his opponent was Dylan Masters. To Walkerton, Masters was just a gung-ho
DA, but that was good because he would eat the young DA for
breakfast. Walkerton was so lost in thought that he failed to hear the
bailiff call the court to order. "Hear ye, hear ye, the County Court of
Naples is now in session, the right Honorable Judge Olivia Frost
presiding." Once everyone was seated again the judge glanced around the
courtroom and intoned, "Bailiff, call the next case."

"Docket number, 1384490, the state of Florida versus Eric Richardson, David
Richardson, Elizabeth Daniels and three other school trustees," the bailiff
called out.

"Your Honor, Mr. Masters for the state," Dylan said as he stood.

"Greg Walkerton, defense for David and Eric Richardson, Your Honor," Greg
stated as he also stood.

"Will Thomas, defense for the school trustees, Your Honor."

"Very well, gentlemen. Mr. Masters state the charges," Judge Frost said.

"Your Honor, the state is charging David Richardson, Eric Richardson and
Elizabeth Daniels with three counts of conspiracy to commit
theft. Elizabeth Daniels stood before you this morning, Your Honor, and
those charges were read to her and the courts. Further charges are one
count of conspiracy to commit theft against the three school
trustees. David Richardson, Eric Richardson and Elizabeth Daniels are
further charged with three counts of conspiracy to commit murder. Eric
Richardson is also charged with one count of first-degree murder in the
death of one Marcus Daniels three years ago. Your Honor, at this time we
are not recommending bail as we feel that all of the defendants are an
extreme flight risk. I am also asking the court for a three week
continuance so that I may bring a valuable witness back to the state,"
Dylan spoke with practiced firmness."

"Mr. Thomas, you have something to say?" Judge Frost asked.

"Yes, Your Honor, I am asking that my clients be released on their own
recognizance as they are well known in this city and are not a flight
risk."

"Your Honor," Dylan spoke up. "These three helped to steal millions of
dollars from the state, monies that have yet to be recovered. I would say
that they are a huge risk for flight."

"Mr. Masters, I can understand your point. However, I am going to grant the
three trustees bail in the amount of $25,000 each. They must also wear an
ankle monitor and will only be allowed to leave their homes to either meet
with the police, their lawyers or to come back to this court," Judge Frost
ordered. "Mr. Walkerton, do you have a bail request?" Frost asked.

"I do, Your Honor, since both Richardson's have been members of our state's
fine government and both are outstanding members of our community I am
asking that they be released without bail and without monitoring."

"WHAT?" Dylan screamed. "Your Honor, I honestly do not think that what
Mr. Walkerton is asking is reasonable. If they are allowed to walk out of
here there is a very good chance that they will try to consummate the
attempted murders that they have conspired to commit. I also feel that they
may also try to find and threaten the witnesses against them."

"Mr. Walkerton, do you feel that Mr. Masters' reasons are viable?"

"No, Your Honor, I do not think that. In fact, I think that Mr. Masters is
grasping at straws and lacks the evidence to convict either of my clients,"
Walkerton stated with a slight smile.

"Your Honor, the State would not have laid the charges if there was a lack
of evidence, or a lack of witnesses."

"I agree, Mr. Masters. David Richardson, I find that there are reasonable
grounds to remand you into the custody of the judicial system until such
time as the case against you has been heard. Eric Richardson, I find that
there are reasonable grounds to remand you into the custody of the judicial
system until such time as the case against you has been
heard. Mrs. Daniels, you were to be back before me next week. I am
postponing that until such time as a full psychiatric assessment has been
done. Court will reconvene three weeks from today at 9:00 AM. Court is
adjourned," Judge Frost said as she stood and left the courtroom.

When the judge left the courtroom, Dylan packed up his papers and was about
to leave when Walkerton stopped him. "I want to see everything you have on
my clients. I also want to know who your witnesses are and where I can call
and talk with them," Walkerton stated roughly.

"You will get a copy of everything I have against your clients, but as for
my witnesses, you will only get their names. Their location and phone
numbers I will be keeping to ensure their safety. You should know better
than to even ask that, Walkerton." Dylan replied as he walked past the man
and out of the courthouse.

Once outside the courthouse, Dylan stopped and grabbed his phone and keyed
in a number before moving down the stairs and over towards his car.

"Jackson," Tyrone answered.

"Agent Jackson, this is Dylan Masters. I need to meet with you as soon as
possible and I need to get some more information from you."

"What do you need, Dylan?" Tyrone asked.

"I need to know if there is another witness, or if there is anything to
back up everything that you gave me?"

"Well, there is the file I gave the Secret Service. I can contact the agent
and see if he can get it for you? As for a witness, I highly doubt that. I
was working undercover."

"Okay, see what you can do. I have three weeks and a lawyer that wants to
see everything."

"I will do my best and call you in the morning."

"Thank-you."

Ending the call, Tyrone put his feet up on his desk and thought about what
Dylan had asked. "Could there be another witness, and if so where is that
person?" Tyrone thought to himself.

=====<>=====

While all this was going on, Sergeant Rossetti of the Naples Police
Department was busy looking at a file he had taken from Sam Johnson's
desk. The file contained the report on the deaths of Arthur and Travis
Martin. The file also held the note that was found pinned to Travis'
chest. Having gone through the file, Rossetti placed it back on Sam's desk
and then called the District Attorney's office. "Emilio Ortega, ADA, what
can I do for you Officer Rossetti?" Ortega asked once he learned who was on
the phone.

"Mr. Ortega, I would like a search warrant for the home, specifically the
bedroom of one Malcolm Daniels," Rossetti stated as soon as he could.

"Just what are you looking for?" Ortega asked.

"A murder weapon and some handwritten notes."

"Very well, I shall have it done up for you in 30 minutes. There is a judge
available to sign off on it."

"Thank-you, I'll stop by and pick it up on my way over to the Daniels'
home."

"Officer Rossetti, you had better make sure that either Malcolm Daniels is
home or his father is, before you go barging in."

"I know that Mr. Daniels, Sr. is home. That should be good enough."

"Yes, that should cover you."

"Good I am just leaving the office now. I'll see you shortly."

=====<>=====

Lei Toshido had been sitting with Brady Martin since he had called
Lt. Patterson, so he was a bit surprised when Jordan walked in and asked to
speak with his cousin alone again. Toshido just nodded his head and left
the room.

"Well, dude, your making great progress I see. Can you talk now?" Jordan
asked.

"Just barely," Brady gasped harshly.

"Well, just remember what I told you."

"Yeah, I remember, but why? What did I do to you?"

"Oh, it wasn't me, it was Malcolm. You see, Daniels is mine, but you people
think you can get rid of him. Well, I'm telling you, you can't. I've taken
care of most of those that thought they could," Jordan grinned.

"What do you mean?"

"Well since, you can't talk so well, and since you are being charged with
what, four or five counts of murder, I am sure that you won't say anything
to the police, but I killed Danvers, my dad and two others. I still have to
find Marshall, but the best part is, I have the police thinking that
Daniels is doing the killings out of revenge."

"You're one sick dude," Brady gasped.

"No, I just want what I know is mine."

Now I have to go. I have some letters to write and a convention to catch up
to."

Lt. Patterson walked into the hospital just minutes after Jordan
left. Taking the first elevator she could, Lt. Patterson rode it to the
secure wing. Entering Brady's room, she walked over to the side of the bed
and looked at Brady. "Brady Martin, I am Lt. Patterson of the Naples Police
Department. I am here to inform you that you are under arrest for the
attempted murder of Malcolm Daniels, Giles Real, Caleb Morrison and Ron
Marsten, and also for the assault and kidnapping of one Patrick Jacobs,
breaking and entering and illegal possession of a firearm. Do you
understand the charges?" Liza asked.

"Yes, ma'am" Brady whispered.

"Brady Martin, you have the right to remain silent. If you give up that
right anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of
law. You have the right to speak to an attorney. If you cannot afford an
attorney, one will be appointed for you. If you choose to answer questions
without and attorney, you can stop at any time and an attorney will be
appointed for you. Knowing and understanding your rights as I have
explained them to you, are you willing to answer my questions without an
attorney present?" Liza said as she read Brady his rights.

"Yes, I understand them and I want to talk to the DA and you both at same
time." Brady stated.

"You are aware that what you tell us will be used against you?" Liza asked.

"Yes, but I know who is killing those people."

"What? How could you know?"

"I was told. Just get me the DA and we can talk."

"Brady, you know that the secret service will want in on this along with
the FBI and God knows who else?"

"For now it will be just you, the DA and me. After that you can do what you
want."

Liza left Brady's room, walked over to the nurses' station and asked to
borrow their phone. She called the police station, only to learn that
Captain Harris had left for the day and that Sam Johnson was out
interviewing some people. Hanging up, Liza called the DA's
office. "District Attorney's Office, how may I help you?' a female
receptionist asked.

"This is Lt. Patterson of the Naples Police Department. May I speak with
Dylan Masters please?"

"One moment please, ma'am."

Liza leaned against the counter and listened to the music that was piped
through the phone. "This music would put an elephant to sleep," Liza
thought as she waited, only to be jolted back when a man's voice came over
the phone.

"Dylan Masters. How can I help you Lt. Patterson?" Dylan asked.

"Sir, I have a hornets nest in my hands and I don't want to get stung. I'm
over at the hospital where I formally arrested Brady Martin. I read him his
rights and everything was done by the book. When I asked him if he wanted
to talk, well, that is when he gave me the hornet's nest. Sir, he wants to
speak with both you and me together," Liza stated as she watched for
movement the hallways.

"Why? What does he have that could be helpful to either you or me?"  "He
claims he knows who has been doing the murders around here."

"And you believe him?"

"I don't know what to believe, but the look on his face was one of pure
terror. I think Brady has been threatened."

"You're right, that is a hornet's nest. I will call the U.S. Marshal's
office and have Martin either moved to a more secure facility or have them
post deputies in and outside his room."

"Thank-you, sir, right now there is just the one guard per shift and I
don't think that is enough."

"It isn't. Furthermore, as of this moment only the nursing staff, doctors,
you or I will be allowed in that room."

"I will let the guard know that. I will also have a few of the swat team
join me until your marshals arrive."

"That would be a good idea. Now let me make some calls and get the ball
rolling for you."

"Thank-you, Mr. Masters."

=====<>=====

By the time that Malcolm, Patrick and their families reached the hotel it
was close to two o'clock and tempers were getting short. Richard and Robert
Sr. walked in and approached the front desk. There they were greeted by an
elderly clerk who looked at them both and frowned. "May I help you
gentlemen?" he asked.

"Yes, you have reservations for the Daniels and Jacobs families, I
believe." Richard told him.

"Let me check," the clerk sniped.

"Robert, I think you had better go get Tony. I think we're going to need
him," Richard whispered.

"I think you're right. I'll be right back," Robert replied.

Outside, everyone had gotten out of the cars and were standing
around. Midnight walked over to the grass and found a tree where he did his
duty. "Midnight! Come back here," Aaron squeaked as he ran towards his pup.

"Hey, kid, what do you think you're doing?" the hotel valet yelled.

"Getting my puppy," Aaron answered.

"Well, get your mutt and get out of here."

"Excuse me, sir, but what gives you the right to yell at my brother? Zeke
asked.

"None of your business, kid. Now get back to where you belong."

As he walked back to where Malcolm was, Zeke was nearly in tears. Wrapping
his arms around Malcolm, Zeke hugged him tight. "I'm glad we are only here
for one night," Zeke whispered.

"Why?" Malcolm asked.

"That guy over there is nasty. He yelled at Aaron and then told me to mind
my own business when I asked him why he had yelled at him."

"Oh, really? Maybe I should have a word with him."

"No way, he might hurt you."

Casey Watkins was standing close to Malcolm and heard what Zeke said. She
placed her hand on Malcolm's shoulder and said, "Mr. Daniels, don't go over
there. I will speak with the management about this once you are all in your
rooms."

"All right, but I wish they would hurry, I have to use the bathroom,"
Malcolm smiled.

"I'm sure that your dad has things worked out."

As Malcolm, Zeke and Casey were talking, Aaron returned and went into the
hotel with Midnight right behind him. Walking over to Richard, Aaron put
his little hand in his dad's. "How much longer, Dad? I'm getting hungry,
and so is Midnight," Aaron asked.

"Not much longer, son, then we can feed you both. Okay?"

"Uh huh. Can we stay in here with you?"

"Yes, you may..." Richard was about to say more when the clerk turned to
him.

"Is that mutt with you? I can't allow that thing in this hotel," the clerk
glowered.

"Well, I'm afraid you are just going to have to," Tony interrupted as he
walked up.

"I don't have to do anything that I don't think is within hotel policy."

"Well, just for your information, that is a service dog. He belongs to the
young lad there and his brothers and is used for the emotional wellbeing of
them all. He is also there for the protection of those same boys," Tony
stated and then showed the clerk his credentials.

"I am Tony Marchand of the Secret Service. Now do we have a problem or not?
If we do then I would suggest you get the hotel manager out here, pronto."

"Well, umm I don't think that will be necessary," the clerk stammered.

"Actually, yes it is," Casey said as she walked up to the desk. "In fact, I
want to see him out here in one minute or less or I will be going through
his door personally."

"Lieutenant Watkins, what the hell has gotten into you?" Tony asked when
the clerk had disappeared.

"I won't put up with people yelling at kids for no reason," Casey snapped.

"What are you talking about? Who snapped at whom?"

"The valet, who is supposed to be looking after the cars, not yelling at
the hotel guests."

"I'll have Donnie talk to him," Tony said.

"That won't be necessary, sir," the manager said as he walked up. "Casey,
it's good to see you again. Are you looking for another donation, or are
you going to start a fundraiser?" the manager laughed.

"Good God! Carl Jepson; as I live and breathe. I heard you got promotion,
but to manager?" Casey laughed

"Well, I'm just the assistant manager right now, but, yes, I will be the
new manager here soon."

"Well, good. Oh, this is Tony Marchand with the Secret Service."

"You are all part of the Daniels' entourage?" Carl asked.

"Yes, there are a dozen state troopers and eight Secret Service people,
then there are eleven others between the two families plus one service
canine," Tony answered.

"Very well, I am sure the clerk has everything set up. As for the valet, I
will have a talk with him immediately," Carl said as he turned to walk out
the front doors.

"I take it you two have known each other for a long time?" Tony asked.

"We went to school together," Casey said with a frown.

"I hope that this isn't going to bring up unpleasant memories."

"Oh no, I won't let that happen. Besides Carl is more of a brother to me
than anything else."

"I told you that mutt is not staying in any of our rooms here, now take him
outside," the desk clerk growled.

"Mister, that service canine well be staying in the room the boys are in
and there is not going to be any more arguments about it," Richard said
sternly.

"We'll see about that. Oh, Mr. Jepson, may I have a moment, please?" the
clerk called out.

"What's the problem?" Carl asked.

"Sir, these people think they can have that mutt in their rooms," the clerk
stated.

"Of course they can; he is a Secret Service canine, not a mutt. Now, are
their rooms set up?"

"Yes, sir, they have the whole twelfth floor," the clerk replied
sheepishly.

Tony led everyone over to the elevators and, using two elevators, got
everyone up to their rooms while the troopers looked over the
hallways. Casey left four officers downstairs to make sure that no one got
up to the twelfth floor. Once the door to his room was opened, Malcolm ran
over to the washroom and was in there for about five minutes before coming
back out. "I wouldn't go in there for a while," he laughed.

Malcolm sat at the table in the hotel room with Patrick beside him and took
out his speech for that night. He just started going over it when he felt a
kiss on his neck. "Can we cuddle for a while?" Patrick asked.

"Yeah, let's. This can wait," Malcolm answered. Aaron and Zeke were curled
up and already sleeping on one of the beds.

Curling up on the second bed, Patrick and Malcolm snuggled closely, each
giving the other a couple of kisses as they relaxed. Malcolm quickly
drifted off to sleep. Malcolm's eyes snapped open when he heard a knock on
his door. "Who is it?" Malcolm called out.

"Room service," came the answer.

Looking over he saw that Patrick was sitting at the table. "Did you call
them?" Malcolm asked.

"Yeah, I thought it would be better for the four of us to eat up here. I'll
get the door; you go brush your hair."

Malcolm helped Zeke and Aaron wash up and brought them back into the
sitting area where the table was laden with hamburgers, fries and
smoothies. "Yummy," Aaron giggled as he jumped onto Patrick's lap. Zeke sat
on Malcolm's lap and soon everyone was eating and tossing fries at each
other.

"Guys, when you finish up I want you to shower and get into your suits, and
please don't take forever. We have to leave at 6:30," Malcolm said.

"I'll help them, while you go over your speech and get into your suit,"
Patrick said.

"Thanks, Patrick."

=====<>=====

Three floors below, Sylvia Rogers was putting on her pants suit—the suit
jacket a size larger to cover the fact she was wearing more than just a
blouse—shoes and makeup. As she waited for the salad she had ordered to
arrive, she double-checked that her little .38 was in her purse. By six
o'clock, Sylvia had eaten and had made her way over to the conference
center. On the pretence that she wanted to make sure that they had set up
the stage and chairs correctly and that the sound system was working she
was readily admitted into the building. This wasn't part of her job, but
she knew it was the only way she would be able to get her gun inside.

At the same time Sylvia was going over everything on the stage, Malcolm and
the rest of his group gathered in the hotel lobby. To the other guests, it
looked like a presidential visit when the Secret Service agents and state
troopers cordoned off two elevators and a walkway leading to the front
doors. A new bus had been delivered and was waiting just outside the front
doors. The driver was a young man in his twenties. As he waited, he looked
around nervously and wondered if anything was going to go wrong. This was
his first time as a driver for a tour group, or at least that is what he
thought it was. When Tony came out and told him to open the door the driver
almost peed himself with fright. He quickly opened the door and stepped out
of the way as Tony stepped inside and had a look around. "Relax, son. This
is just a short drive, there and back, it is tomorrow you have to worry
about," Tony laughed.

"Umm, yeah, I guess," the driver said.

Satisfied that everything was okay, Tony called Donnie and Casey and told
them to bring everyone out and straight onto the bus.

"Malcolm," Donnie called out, "It's time. Remember how it was in
Washington: don't stop and don't ask questions until we are on board."

"Yes, sir," Malcolm answered as he bent and lifted Zeke into his arms, as
Patrick did the same with Aaron. "Come on, Midnight," Aaron called out as
Patrick started towards the front door.

"You're getting heavy, little guy," Patrick said with a smile.

"I'm a big boy, but I like you carrying me," Aaron giggled and then rested
his head on Patrick's shoulder.

Once everyone was on the bus, the troopers ran to their cars, and with the
"Christmas tree" lights going, led the way over to the Convention Center
and right up to the front doors. "Again, everyone go immediately inside,
please," Donnie said as the bus door opened and he stepped out.

With a quick rush the boys exited the bus and ran inside, with Midnight
right on their heels. They stopped just inside the foyer and waited for the
parents and security to catch up with them. As they looked around, Richard
came up to the front and was greeted by the management staff. "Mr. Daniels,
we are very pleased that you have chosen our venue for the start of your
campaign," the convention center manager said.

"Oh, this isn't my start, this one is for Malcolm Daniels. I start off
tomorrow over at the baseball field," Richard said with a smile.

"I'm sorry, but the room was booked for a Mr. Daniels and I thought that
was you."

"I am Mr. Daniels, but it is my son that the room was booked for."

"Your son? Surely you cannot expect us to allow a youngster to have such
free reign."

"Yes, I can, and more so since I know that some very important people in
Washington, DC will be watching this event tonight at the White House."

"In that case, please come right this way," the manager stuttered, fumbling
over his tongue. "Your group has the front two rows, with the exception of
the middle seat in the first row. It seems someone bought that ticket
before we could safeguard them."

"Can you refund the person's money and offer to move them to another seat
at our expense?" Tony asked.

"I don't know, I can only ask."

"Do that. No one is to be in those seats except security and these two
families. You might let the person know that this is not just a request,
but on orders from Washington," Donnie lied.

"Damn, you people know how to make a mess of things don't you."

"We try not to," Casey said with a smile. "Malcolm, you will be on
stage. Are you going to be all right up there alone?"

"I won't be alone; Patrick will be with me."

"So will a few agents Lt. Watkins. I also want a few of your troopers on
either side of the stage," Tony barked.

Patrick, who was standing beside Malcolm, just grinned. "I'm glad I'm not
the one introducing you tonight. I think I would just faint if I had to do
that," Patrick snickered.

"Hey, you did it in front of a lot more people that we have here
tonight. So chill. Besides, how the heck you think I feel."

"Warm and cuddly," Patrick laughed and moved away a bit.

"Just you wait," Malcolm smiled.

While waiting for Malcolm's speech to begin, Casey was checking the secure
area and came upon a purse that was left unattended. Unattended bags,
parcels and containers are prohibited in the secure area, so she searched
it, hoping to discover the owner's ID. She was shocked when she saw the
revolver and quickly removed it. She unloaded it, put it in her jacket
pocket, and headed back to her assigned position.

At five-to-seven, everyone was led in and asked to take their seat. Tony
took both Patrick and Malcolm up onto the stage. Once in their seats,
Malcolm and Patrick put their heads together and were whispering back and
forth, neither much aware of what was going on around them. Tony and
Donnie, along with two other agents, stood a bit further back and Casey
stood at the far left stage entrance.

Right at seven, Sylvia walked out onto the stage. Casey spotted her with
the purse she just removed the pistol from. She called Tony on his ear
piece. "Tony, do you see the woman coming on stage?"

"Yes, I do," Tony replied.

I just removed a gun from the purse she is carrying. It was left unattended
in the secure area backstage, so I searched it. I think she may have been
up to something, but it won't happen now."

"Good catch," Tony said, then passed the word to the other agents around
the boys.

Sylvia went right to the microphone and tapped it to make sure that it was
on before she started talking. "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and
welcome to the Tampa Convention Center where we will be enjoying a great
evening as we listen to Naples' own Malcolm Daniels as he begins his run
for the office of Commissioner of Education. I promise you that tonight you
will have a show that you won't soon forget. So, I would like to ask
Malcolm Daniels and his friend Patrick Jacobs to come up and say hello."
Standing, Malcolm and Patrick moved to the left side of the podium, near
where Sylvia stood. Sylvia stepped back and slowly reached into her purse,
but found the pistol was no longer there.

As soon as Malcolm and Patrick stood, Tony and Donnie moved in front of
them as Goodson and Fairweather put their arms around Malcolm and
Patrick. Malcolm and Patrick knew not to question anything done by their
security people. Casey walked up behind Sylvia and put her in a restraint
hold, knocking off her fake glasses, as one of the other agents came to
apply the cuffs.

Tony took control of the woman, marched her over towards the boys and asked
if they recognized her. It was then Malcolm and Patrick both recognized
their former English teacher. Malcolm was livid when he saw his old
teacher, but did not speak to her directly. He just told Tony they knew her
well, that she was bad news, and to get her out of his sight. "Sweet! That
bitch finally gets it," Patrick whispered sotto voce.

=====<>=====

In front rooms all across the nation, families stared in shock as they
watched the scene unfold before their eyes. In the White House living room,
Bennie Jacobs, who was watching the broadcast with his dad, sat up and
watched closely. "Ace, come in here!" Bennie yelled.

"What's up, buddy?" Ace asked

"Some lady on stage with Malcolm was just arrested in front of a bunch of
people and on television," Bennie cried.

"I'll call Tony and find out what's going on."

"Ace, I thought I said he was to be protected," Ben stated firmly.

"You did, and he was. It seems an attempt was thwarted by the agents
there."

"Well, I want a full report as soon as possible," Ben said patting Ace on
the shoulder as he returned to his seat.

"Yes, sir," Ace said as he called Tony's cell phone.

=====<>=====

Once order was restored in the convention center auditorium, Malcolm was
more determined than ever to deliver his speech. His face a portrait of
pure anger, he walked over to the microphone, grabbed it and yanked it out
its mount.



To Be Continued.

Comments and emails welcome thewriter1@live.ca Flames flushed twice