Exposed (12 page)

Chapter Seventeen

     “Mr. Pierce?”

     “Jake? Am I glad to hear your voice. Have you found her? Have you found my Alyson?”

     “That’s exactly what I’m calling about. I found her and Cassie.”

     “Are they okay? Please tell me they’re okay!”

     “They are okay, but they’ve been through a lot.”

     “Where are they? Are they with you?”

     “Not exactly, but I have seen them. I’ll tell you all the details when I see you.”

     “Didn’t they want to come home? They’re still upset, aren’t they?”

     “Alyson is still hurt and angry, but that’s not why they didn’t come with me.”

     “I don’t understand.”

     “They didn’t come with me because they couldn’t. My dad has been...keeping them.”

     “What do you mean he’s keeping them?”

     “He’s been holding them hostage. Running all sorts of tests on them.”

     “Where are they?”

     “At his lab, Genesis Biotech. I have a plan to get them out of there tonight. I need your help to do it, though.”

     “You don’t even have to ask. Just tell me what the plan is and how I can help. I’m sure Cassie’s father is going to want to help as well. I’ll fill him in on all the details after we hang up. I’m sure he’s eager to know his daughter is okay.”

     “I found an escape route that should be safe to use. There’s an emergency exit not far from the room they’re in. There’s no alarm on the door so security won’t hear when it’s opened.”

     “What about your father? Where is he going to be?”

     “He’ll be home -- asleep. I’ll make sure of it. He won’t be a problem.”

     “No more so than he already has.”

     “I know you’re upset. I am, too. If I could change things, I would. I hate that I’m related to him. I don’t even know who he is anymore. He’s not the same. He’s...changed.”

     “In what way?”

     “He was always driven when it came to his work. I’m used to that. Now...it’s almost like he’s...possessed. He’s completely out of control now. I never thought I’d be saying this, but...I’m afraid of him. I don’t know what he’s going to do when he finds out they’re gone.”

     “If you save my daughter, I’ll protect you. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

     “Thank you. I appreciate the concern, but I’m not the one in trouble now. Alyson and Cassie are. We need to just concentrate on them.”

     “Tell me the plan so I can call Alex. He’s been beside himself with worry since Cassie disappeared.”

     “We’ll have to be very careful. We can’t let security see either of you.”

     “Don’t worry. We’ll go in your car so they don’t recognize ours. We can park outside the premises, then ride in together.”

     “I’ll park around the back near the emergency exit. The two of you will wait in my car while I go inside and open the emergency exit door for you. We’ll have a fifteen minute window from midnight until 12:15 when security is on a break. That should give us just enough time to get the girls out and safely away from the building.”

     “I’ll let Alex know the plan and we’ll meet you outside the front gate at exactly 12:00.”

     “12:00 it is. I’ll see you then.”

Chapter Eighteen

     “Dad? Are you home?” Jake called out, closing the front door behind him.

     No response. The house was silent. Jake ran up the stairs to see if his father was in his room. He knocked on the door and waited for a response. Nothing.

     “Where can he be? He should have been home hours ago. He couldn’t still be at the lab. Could he? No, no, no, no. This can’t be happening. I have a plan. And it doesn’t include this. He has to be home for this to work.”

     Jake’s heart beat faster. Little pin pricks tingled the tips of his fingers. His temples throbbed as he gasped for breath. Visions of Alyson and Cassie kept spinning around his head as a chill shot through him. He needed to calm down. He went to the one place he always felt safe -- the basement.

     He got downstairs, flipped on the light, and there was his father, on the couch, staring straight ahead. The television was off. There was no music playing. He was just sitting in the dark -- staring, as if in a trance.

     “Dad?” Jake said softly, tapping him gently on the shoulder.

     No response. He didn’t move. He just kept staring. Jake tapped his shoulder again, then stood directly in front of him.

     “Dad? Are you okay?”

     His father blinked a few times, then came out of his trance.

     “Okay? Am I okay? Of course I’m okay. Why wouldn’t I be?”

     “You were sitting in the dark, not moving, staring into space. I called you over and over and you didn’t answer me. You never even come into the basement. This is the first time I’ve seen you down here since Mom died.”

     “Well, I’m fine. You needn’t worry. I’m just going to grab something to eat and then head back to the lab.”

     “No! You can’t!”

     “Can’t? What do you mean I can’t? I know you didn’t just tell me...”

     “I mean...it’s late. You look tired. Why don’t you get a good night’s rest and start again fresh tomorrow?”

      “There’s still a lot of work to be done. We don’t have time to relax. I thought you understood. I thought you were committed to this project. Was I wrong? Did I make a mistake taking you on as a partner? I know you’re my son, but maybe I should continue without you. There’s no room for nepotism in the world of research.”

     “No, I am committed. Completely committed. There’s nothing else on my mind. Nothing else I ever think of.”

     “Good. Since you are my son, I will give you another chance, but if we’re going to work together, you need to eat, sleep, and breathe this project.”

     “That’s kind of my point, Dad. You haven’t slept in such a long time. You’ll be a lot more productive if you get some sleep.”

     “It has been a long day. And having you help out has moved things along a little quicker. Maybe, just this once, I’ll take the night off.”

     “I’ll make you a hot cup of tea and bring it up to your room.”

     “You are a good son, Jake.”

     Howard went upstairs to rest while Jake prepared a special brew for his father in the kitchen. He carried it up the stairs, careful not to spill any. He wanted his father to get the full dose. Pushing open the bedroom door, Jake looked at him, his trusting eyes, about to be betrayed by his own son.

     “Here you go, Dad,” Jake said, handing his father the steaming cup of tea.

     Jake was halfway out the door when his father called him back.

     “Come sit with me. We can talk. Just like we used to.”

     Jake searched his memory for the last time he had a real conversation with his father. Even after his mom died, his father was barely around. He was always working. Always too busy to be a father. Still, Jake felt it important to make the effort. Maybe his father was trying to change, to reach out to him, now that he believed they had something in common.

     “I don’t really know what to say, Dad. We don’t talk that often. It just feels kind of...weird.”

     “If you would rather not...”

     “No, it’s not that. It’s just been a really long time and we haven’t talked about anything important...ever. Even after Mom died. We never really talked about anything serious.”

     “We could start now. I would like to try to get to know my son better. Especially now.”

     “Especially now?”

     “Yes, now that you have become a part of my work, my research, we have so much to discuss.”

     “Of course. Your work. Yes, it has been...enlightening working with you. You should drink your tea...before it gets cold.”

     “That’s my boy. Looking out for his old man,” Howard said as he took a large gulp of tea.

     Jake casually checked his watch, but not without the notice of his father.

     “You late for a date, Jake?”

     “No, no, no,” Jake said, his face starting to flush.

     “You’re turning red. I caught you, didn’t I?”

     “C..caught me?”

     “You’re moving on from your clone friend. That’s wonderful news. You shouldn’t hide it. I’m proud of you, son.”

     “Yes. Yes, that’s it. I didn’t want to say anything before, but now I guess the cat’s out of the bag. You...caught me.”

     “So, what’s her name?” Howard asked, taking another gulp of the tea.

     “Her name?”

     “Yes, her name. She does have one, doesn’t she?”

     “Of course! Of course she has a name. It’s...Maggie. Yes, Maggie. We met a few weeks ago.”

     “You must tell me all about her,” Howard said, starting to yawn.

     “You look tired. We’ll talk in the morning. Finish your tea and I’ll bring the cup downstairs.”

     Howard took a few more gulps and handed the cup to Jake.

     “Goodnight, Dad.”

     “Thanks for the tea, Jake. And the talk. We should have done it sooner. I’m sorry I haven’t always been there for you. I do love you, though. I’m glad you’re becoming a part of my world now. My son.”

     Howard closed his eyes and was unconscious in a few minutes. Jake waited five minutes more, just to be certain, then brought the cup downstairs. He washed it thoroughly to remove all traces of the substance. His father’s words resonated in his head. He hadn’t heard his father confess his love very often. Jake felt conflicted for a moment, but knew he was doing the right thing. His father had to be stopped and the girls had to be saved. He grabbed the car keys and headed out to meet Alyson’s father.

Chapter Nineteen

     “You’re right on time, Jake. This is Alexander Stephens, Cassie’s father,” Mr. Pierce said, gesturing to the stocky, spectacled man standing to his left.

     “It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Stephens,” Jake said, his hand extended.

     “You can just call me Alex. It’s good to meet you, Jake. Thank you for finding my daughter. Both our daughters. They’re very special girls, as I’m sure you’re already aware.”

     “Yes,...I am. They are very...special. In more ways than one. I’ve never seen such strength or resilience in anyone. They’re both very brave. I’m embarrassed to say it, but my dad has done...unspeakable things to them. I am very sorry.”

     “It wasn’t your fault. Your father is the one to blame. Not you, Jake. Neither myself nor Alex hold any animosity toward you. We’re just grateful you’ve led us to them.”

     “We should get to it then. We don’t have much time. Get in the back of my car and stay down. I’ll drive around the back, park the car near the emergency exit, then walk back so I can get inside. When it’s safe, I’ll open the door and lead you to their room. I’m sure they’re going to need a lot of help. It’s been a long time since they’ve been allowed to walk.”

     “That..that... How could he? When I get my hands on him...”

     “Alex! We can’t think about that now. The only thing that’s important right now is getting our daughters back -- safely.”

     “I’m sorry, Charles. I’ve just been under so much stress since she’s been gone. You’re right, of course. The only thing that matters is our daughters.”

     “Stay down. I’ll come get you when it’s safe. Until then, don’t let anyone see you.”

     Jake parked the car, closed the door lightly so it wouldn’t be heard, and walked to the front entrance. His heart was pounding, but he tried to act casual as he passed security. They were just about to go on break when they saw him enter.

     “Your dad’s not here, Jake. He left for home hours ago.”

     “Thanks. I’m just picking up where he left off. You know what my dad always says. Research waits for no man.”

     “You’re just a chip off the old block, huh? Glad to hear it. Your dad must be so proud. He always wanted you to join him. It was always his dream to be a father-son team with you. Talked about you all the time. You and your mom. Lord rest her soul.”

     “He...did? He talked about us?”

     “All the time. Hated being away from his family. I’m sure you already knew that, though, didn’t you?”

     “Yes,...of course.”

     “While his work was always important to him, he never let a day pass without saying how much he wished his family could be by his side while he was finding a cure for some disease. He’s a good man. Why don’t you go on back? I’m sure you know your way. Me and the guys were just about to go on break.”

     “Thanks, I will. Enjoy your break,” Jake said, his voice trailing off as he headed to the girls’ room.

     He never knew his father thought about him. What else didn’t he know about the man keeping two teenage girls prisoner? Is it possible he wasn’t all evil? Jake didn’t know what to think. He pushed all thoughts of his father out of his head and stayed focused on the task at hand.

     “We have to move fast. Security is only on break for fifteen minutes,” Jake said, undoing their restraints.

     “Is this real? Are we really getting out of here?” Alyson asked, rubbing her wrists.

     “Thank you, Jake. Thank you so much,” Cassie said, the corners of her mouth turning upward.

     “Can you walk?”

     Anxious for freedom, Alyson and Cassie tried sitting up. They felt woozy as they inched their way off the bed, holding onto the rail for support. Their legs like limp noodles, buckled, and they landed in a heap on the cold tile floor.

     “Don’t try to move. Just stay where you are. I’ll be right back with your dads. They’ll help carry you out of here.”

     Jake left the room, checked both ways for security, then opened the emergency exit door for their fathers.

     “It’s okay. Come in. The coast is clear,” Jake whispered.

     “How are they? How do they look? Are they okay?” Alex asked.

     “They’re weak. They need your help.”

     “Of course,” Charles said, Alex nodding in agreement.

     “We only have a few minutes before security comes back. They can’t walk on their own yet, so you’re going to have to carry them.”

     Jake led them into the room where their daughters would no longer be held prisoner. He hurried to close the door behind them. They saw their daughters, helpless on the floor.

     “Alyson! I...I...I can’t believe it. It’s...really you. He did it. Jake did it. He brought me to you. I...I don’t know what to say.”

     “Dad?” Alyson said, half out-of-breath.

     “It’s okay. You don’t have to say anything. Don’t try to speak. I’m just so relieved to see you.”

     Charles bent down and lifted Alyson up in his arms. She was limp as a rag doll, barely able to put her arms around his neck.

     “It’s okay. I’ve got you. You don’t have to worry anymore. I’m not letting go.”

     “I’m...”

     “I know, Alyson. I am as well.”

     While Charles was tending to Alyson, Alex was rushing to Cassie’s side to help her off the floor.

     “I’m here for you. I always will be.”

     “I know, Dad. I thought I was never going to see you again.”

     “I would never let that happen. I’ll always protect you.”

     “I’m sorry I ran off.”

     “We’ll have plenty of time for that later. Right now we have to get out of here. While it’s still safe.”

     Jake held the door open and checked the hallway for security.

     “Come on. Let’s get them out now. The coast is clear.”

     Charles and Alex carried their daughters to safety while Jake followed closely behind. He got everyone settled into his car, then driving well above the posted limit of 10mph, transported them outside the gate. Charles helped Alyson into the passenger seat, secured the nylon belt, then checked on Cassie who was getting settled into her father’s car.

     “We did it, Alex. We did it,” Charles said, a lump forming in his throat. “Our girls are back. Thanks to Jake, our girls are back.”

     “I’m sorry I couldn’t save them sooner. I wish...”

     “It’s okay, Jake. They’re safe now. We appreciate everything you’ve done.”

     Alex watched his daughter through the car window, fidgeting in her seat, trying to find a comfortable position.

     “I’ll talk to you in the morning, Alex. I want to get Alyson home and into her own bed. They both need a good night’s rest after the ordeal they’ve been through. Thanks again, Jake. You’re a good man. We’ll talk soon.”

     “Goodnight, Mr. Pierce. Tell Alyson...”

     “I will.”

     Charles started the car and Alyson opened the window.

     “It’s starting to rain, Alyson. Are you sure...?”

     Alyson shot Charles a look. Like a dog on a Sunday drive, she held her head out to feel every gust of wind in her face. As raindrops pelted her nose and cheeks, she stuck out her tongue to taste the fresh water droplets as they landed.

So refreshin
g
, she thought to herself.

     “Finally free. I’m finally free,” she mumbled quietly under her breath.

     When they arrived home, Charles looked over at the young woman sitting next to him. She was no longer a child. Her world was shattered and turned upside down. First by him, then by Howard Parker.

     “How could I do this to her? This is all my fault. I should have protected her better. I’m her father,” he whispered softly.

     Alyson leaned back in her seat.

     “Did you say something, Dad?”

   
 
Dad. She called me Dad
,
he said to himself, choking back tears.

     “Are you crying?”

     “I can’t believe you’re here, sitting next to me. Speaking to me. I’m so sorry, Alyson.”

     Charles rubbed his eyes, tears flowing into his open mouth. He pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and blew his nose -- hard.

     “You always did sound like an elephant when you blew your nose. I guess some things don’t change,” Alyson said, cracking a half smile.

     Charles started to laugh, the tension between them melting away.

     “How about I get you settled into your room and bring you up a hot cup of cocoa? I’ll see if we have any marshmallows in the cupboard.”

     “That sounds really good.”

     “We can talk in the morning after you’ve had a good night’s sleep in your own bed.”

     “My own bed. I like the sound of that.”

     Charles came around to Alyson’s side of the car and opened the door for her.

     “Lean on me. I’ll help you inside.”

     Alyson swung her legs around, placing one foot on the ground at a time. She put her arm around Charles and leaned her head on his shoulder as he helped her into the house and up to her room.

     “I’ll be up in a few minutes with the cocoa,” Charles said, helping Alyson into bed.

     “Thanks, Dad.”

     Charles closed her door on his way out.

     “No! Don’t! Leave it open!”

     “Okay, I’ll leave it open. Do you want me to sit with you for a minute?”

     “Okay, just for a minute.”

     Charles opened the music box on Alyson’s night stand and sat on the bed next to her.

     “You remembered. Whenever I felt scared, you always played the music for me.”

     “I’m your father. Of course I remembered. Why don’t you close your eyes, listen to the music, and let it lull you to sleep? It’s late. You must be exhausted.”

     “I am, but I can’t sleep. I’m not ready yet. I need to just be home for a while. I need to...”

     “You need to get some rest. I’ll leave the light on and the door open. I’ll be right back with your cocoa. That always helped you fall asleep.”

     Charles stood up to leave when Alyson reached for his wrist.

     “Dad.”

     Charles turned.

     “Thanks,” Alyson said and closed her eyes.

     “I love you, Alyson.”

     “Me too, Dad.”

     Charles could feel his throat tightening, making it difficult to swallow. His eyes welled up, but he forced back the tears until he was downstairs. He didn’t want Alyson to hear him cry, even if they were tears of joy. Once in the kitchen and safe out of earshot, he let loose.

  
 
My daughter is back. She’s really back. And she...forgives me. I’ll never..ever let anyone hurt her again.

     Through fluid-filled eyes, he searched the cupboards for marshmallows to put in the cocoa. Not wanting to disappoint his daughter, he checked everywhere, but only found large ones. He cut them up into smaller pieces and dropped a handful in her special cocoa mug. He stirred the cocoa in a saucepan and when it started to boil, removed it from the flame. He added a little milk to cool it down, then poured it over the fluffy white squares.

     After taking another moment to compose himself, he carried the mug upstairs, only to find Alyson fast asleep. He stood in the doorway, watching her. She looked so peaceful. Her eyes fluttering, her mouth agape. He always joked that she could catch flies while she was sleeping. 

     He gently placed the mug beside her bed and tiptoed out of the room, careful not to wake her. He left the light on and the door open -- as promised. He could hear the music fade away as he walked back downstairs. Unable to quiet his mind, he flopped down on the couch and turned on the television. There wasn’t much on, but it didn’t matter. He just needed some white noise to drown out his thoughts. Before long, his head was bobbing up and down, drool dripping down the side of his chin.