“It was good to be home,” thought Marie Jamieson as she gazed out of the cab window. It was a beautiful spring day. The sun was out, the sky was blue. The cab slowed down and pulled up to the curb. The curb was in front of an old Victorian house. The driver climbed out and walked over to the passenger door. He opened the door and I climbed out. After closing the door, he walked over to the hatch and retrieved my luggage. He placed them on the side walk.

“Do ya need help sweetie?”

“No. Thank you. I think I can handle it.”

“Alright,” he said. I paid him and he drove off. I grabbed my luggage and lugged it up to the door. I dropped it down on the step and rummaged through my purse for my keys.

Hiding behind a bunch of trees near by, stood Jarod. He was watching her. They way she walked. Debating if he should go and see her; or stay here. He wanted to desperately find out why she didn’t come see him. Surly Sydney would have told her I had escaped. He moved closer.

I found my keys and unlocked the door. I picked up my bags and walked into the house, closing the door with my foot. Dropping my bags on the ground, I turned the lights on. Placing my hands on my hips, I glanced around the room. I walked into the kitchen and began unpacking some of my stuff. Just then the phone rang.

“Hello,” I replied answering the phone.

“Hey there cousin. Did you just arrive?”

“Yes, I just got in.”

“My father wants you to stop by the office.”

“Alright I can do that. When does he want me to stop by?”

“Today.”

“I will be there in fifteen minutes,” I replied hanging up. I walked out into the hallway. I grabbed my keys and jacket off the table and walked over to the door. Opening the door I pulled on my jacket. I turned around closing the door.

Jarod was facing towards the opposite house still debating about walking over. He turned around.

“She is beautiful then ever,” he said to himself. He started to walk over.

I locked the door and headed down the steps. I paused. I could feel someone’s eyes on me. I spun around. Gasping, I dropped my keys.

“Jarod?”

“Hello Marie. It’s me Jarod. Don’t you remember me?”

“They told me you were dead.”

“Who told you that?” he asked dumbstrucked. I reached for my keys.

“I have to go,” I said walking over to the curb. I hailed a cab and quickly climbed in.

“Marie, wait!” Jarod cried. I looked out the window. He was still standing there. I looked away puzzled. Is it possible that Jarod survived the accident? If it is true why didn’t my uncle or father tell me? And why did my uncle lie to me not to mention my father?

“Where to kido?” The driver asked.

“Umm here is the address,” I replied handing him the piece of paper with the address. I leaned back. I played with a necklace I was wearing. I traced the shape of the charm. It was an angel. I unclasped it and placed it in my hand. I stared at it, remembering the day Jarod gave it to me.

A young girl walked down the hallway.

“I know,” she replied.

“We are here sweetheart,” replied the driver.

“Thank you.” I replied clearing my head, putting my necklace back on. I got out of the cab fifteen minutes later. I could still here Jarod’s voice echoing ‘I will always be there for you’ in my head as I walked up to the building and walked in.

“You must be Miss Jamieson. I will take you to your uncle,” replied a man.

“Willie is that you?”

“Yes. It has been a long time. ” Willie led me to the elevator and we went up. Once the doors opened Willie ushered me out and down the hall to a door. We paused. Willie knocked and waited. Come in was the response. Willie opened the door. I walked in.

“Is that you Marie?”

“Yes, uncle it is me.”

“Wow how long as it be?”

“Well I was seven when you sent me to school and now I am twenty-one. So it has been fourteen years since you sent me to England.”

“Please sit down my dear.” I walked over from where I was standing in the doorway and sat down in a chair.

“You must be wondering why I wanted to see you,” he said leaning back and folding his hands together.

“Yes, I was wondering.”

“I wanted to see how you are doing. I thought it would be best to do it here instead of at your house so you wouldn’t have to rush around unpacking. And I wanted to know if you arrived in Blue Cove safely from… where was it in Maine?”

“The school was in St. Georges. Yes, I arrived safely.”

“Marie.” I turned around.

“Dad,” I said with a smile. I rose and walked over to him.

“It is so good see you,” he replied hugging me. I put my arms around him.

“How are you doing dad?” I asked letting go.

“I’m doing great.”

“What have you been doing lately? I mean Jarod has been dead for awhile,” I said staring at him. My father looked at Mr. Parker. Then he quickly turned his gaze back at me.

“I have been doing psychological work for the Centre,” he replied gazing towards the wall. I knew that he was hiding something from me. In fact both my father and uncle are hiding something.

“There you are Sydney. Broots and I are ready to go,” declared Miss Parker.

“I’ll be ready to go in a minute,” replied my father. I turned to Miss Parker.

“Who is this?”

“This is Broots,” Miss Parker stated.

“I’m a computer specialist,” interrupted Broots holding out his hand.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” I replied shaking his hand. My father walked over to Miss Parker.

“You can wait for me in my office. I will be back in an hour,” he said walking out. Broots headed towards the door but was stopped by Miss Parker. She whispered something into his ear. She then smiled at me and walked out.

“I will take you to your father’s office,” Broots replied. I followed him out and down to my father’s office. I sat down in a chair.

“Would you like coffee?”

“No. I’m good.”

“So Broots do you work for my cousin?” I asked.

“I work with your cousin in capturing…” he paused.

“Yes, I work for her,” he said tugging at his shirt collar.

“I was wondering if you can tell me where I can find a Sim.”

“I can help you with that. What are you looking for?”

“I’m looking for a Sim that Jarod performed on May 6th nineteen-seventy.”

“I will see what I can do,” he replied walking out. I rose and looked around my father’s office. Where would I keep discs of a patient or subject? I went over to my dad’s desk and sat down. I looked through the draws. There were no discs but I found the DSA player. I went over to a file cabinet. I looked through the top draw. There was nothing. I paused. I heard footsteps. I went over to the chair and sat down. Broots came in.

“I found what you were looking for. I also found a DSA of the day before,” he replied handing me the DSAs. I took them and put in the first DSA into the DSA player.

Jarod. May 5th nineteen-seventy. For Centre Use Only.

“The Centre is using it as a new means for transportation.” The screen went blank. I took it out and put in the other one.

Jarod. May 6th nineteen- seventy. For Centre Use Only.

“He’s dead.” The screen went blank. I took it out and handed it to Broots.

“I’m sorry you had to see that,” he said taking the DSAs.

“Why do you say that?” I gave him a quizzical look.

“Sydney told me that you and Jarod grew up together. And that he died a month after your mother and aunt’s death. It must have been awful.”

“Yes, it was terrible.”

“Broots, what does my father do?”

“He works on the retrieval project,” he replied.

“I see Broots has been keeping you company,” stated my father walking in.

“Yes,” I replied with a smile. Broots left. It was silent. My father sat down and looked through his draws.

“Dad what is the retrieval project?”

“What? How did you know about that project?” he asked looking up surprised.

“Broots told me.”

“It is nothing to worry about,” he replied looking back down at his draws. He took out a set of keys.

“Here are the keys to the car you wanted,” he said handing them to me.

I took them and walked out into the hallway and headed into elevator. As the elevator went down I couldn’t help thinking that everyone- my father, Miss Parker, Broots, and Uncle Parker were hiding something. And I knew it had to do with Jarod. I walked out to the garage and found my jeep. I hoped in and drove home.

A sad young Marie walked down the deserted hallway. All the employees and chairmen were upstairs giving their condolences to the Parker and Jamieson family. She climbed into the vent and sat against the wall. She buried her head in her arms. She wanted to be alone.

I jerked up. I sat there staring into the darkness. I lay down again and closed my eyes.

“Marie, your mother will be here shortly with your aunt. So get ready to leave,” declared Sydney.

She paused in the middle of the office. She heard footsteps. She started for the door. Bang! She paused frozen in her steps. She heard a scream and then another gunshot. She flung open the door and ran out. She began screaming, “Mom, Mommy! No mommy, no!” as she got closer to where the shots came from. She reached the elevator. She could see part of her mother and aunt’s body lying on the ground blood strewn all over the place. She tried walking closer but a firm grip was on her arms. She looked up. It was Willie. He had grabbed her and was pulling her away from the elevator.” No, Mommy No,” she screamed again trying to break free. Miss parker was being pulled away from the elevator as well.

Jarod walked down the dark street. He paused in front of a sign. The light of the moon reflected onto the sign. The street was called Cool Springs Drive. Knowing this was Marie’s street, he turned left. Pausing for a moment, he took out his phone. He dialed Marie’s number.

I woke up again. The phone was ringing. Sweat was running down my face and onto my back. I sat there panting. I thought I had forgotten the horrible day in April. I guess I didn’t. I reached for the light, turned it on, and reached for the phone. I rose.

“Hello,” I answered.

“Did I wake you?” asked Jarod walking down the street.

“Jarod, no you didn’t wake me. I was already awake.”

“Couldn’t sleep?” Jarod paused in front of Marie’s house. He looked at the light.

“How could you tell?” I asked walking around the room.

“You said I didn’t wake you. Therefore you were already awake because you had a nightmare from the way your voice sounded.” I walked over to my bed and sat down.

“I could have been working late.”

“True. I forgot you were a DA now; but working till 6 A.M.”

“Oh so you are still in Blue Cove. How did you know I was a DA?”

“I know someone who knows you and works with you.

What did your father say when you asked him about his work for the Centre.”

“How did you know I would ask him what his work is?”

“I have my ways,” he replied mysteriously. I sighed.

“He told me he did psychological work for the Centre.”

“You didn’t believe that so you asked Mr. Broots. What did he say?”

“He told me that he’s working on the Retrieval Project. I asked my father about it but he told me it was nothing to worry about.”

“I got to go! Oh and by the way have fun with your mail.”

“Jarod?” He had hung up. I sat there still holding the phone. I felt like I was with Jarod and that nothing had happened.

Jarod placed his phone back into his coats inside pocket. He stood there still looking at her house. He knew that it was a matter of minutes before she would come and get the package.

“Wait a minute what did he mean by have fun with your mail,” I said suddenly rising. I pulled on my lavender silk bathrobe and walked downstairs. I unlocked the front door and opened it. There was a package on the front doorstep. I bent down and picked up the package. I could feel someone’s eyes on me. I looked up. No one was there.

Jarod walked quickly down the street. He had waited there to long. She knew someone was watching her. He stopped. What am I thinking? Wasn’t it worth it, to see her again?
Yes he told himself. It was worth it to wait there too long.

I slowly closed the door. Turning the dining room light on, I walked over to the half cleared table and sat down. I opened the package and took out a manila folder. It was labeled in black letters: The Retrieval Project. Opening the folder, I found a page that had a note clipped to it. I read the note: I think you will find this very interesting. It was in Jarod’s handwriting. I unclipped the note and placed it beside the package. The page was titled: Retrieval Project Team. I looked down at the rest of the page. The whole page was highlighted in yellow. I took a closer look at the second title: Personnel. The first name on the list was Miss Parker. The second one belonged to Sam the Sweeper. I wasn’t surprised since he follows Miss Parker everywhere-or so I’ve heard. The next one was… I gasped. The third name was my father’s. I looked away. Turning back I gazed at the last name. It was Mr. Broots. I moved the page over and read the page titled Project Summary. The project was created for a sole purpose and that purpose only: To bring back Jarod. I placed all the contents back into folder and rose. Grabbing the folder and placing it into a black leather bag, I headed upstairs carrying the bag with me. I decided I would pay another visit- but this time on my own accord- to the Centre.

An hour later I was walking down the hall to my father’s office, the project folder in hand. I was confident that I wouldn’t leave the family’s business office until I received the answers I’m searching for. I reached my father’s office. The door was closed. So I knocked. “Come in.” I opened the door and walked in. My father looked up. Marie why aren’t you at work…What’s this?” I had thrown the folder down onto the desk.

“Do you mind telling me why you are part of the retrieval project?”

“Where did you get this?” He asked surprisingly.

“I have my way.”

‘Mr. Parker asked me to help bring him back.”

“Why are you doing this?”

“Why? Cause I want to protect Jarod from the outside world. And the only way to do that is to bring him back.”

“Why didn’t you tell me Jarod was alive?” I demanded.

“You’ve seen Jarod. Mr. Parker told me not to tell you.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know.” I walked over to the door. I turned my head.

“You should be ashamed of yourself. Mother would be disappointed at what you are doing;” I stated opening the door and walking out.

Sydney sat there staring at the closed door. He felt guilty. All he wanted was to catch up with his daughter, who he hasn’t seen in fourteen years. Instead they started a fight. A fight he knew would someday come. A fight he tried so hard to avoid. Again he felt guilty about his job as a parent and for lying to his only child for fourteen years about someone she cared about. He leaned over and reached for the picture of his wife. Staring at it, he whispered, “What would you do?” But he already knew what she would have done. She would have ignored her brother-in-law’s words. He sighed and put the picture back onto the desk.

I walked down to my uncle’s office. Opening the door I walked in. I tramped over to my uncle’s desk and dropped the folder down. He placed his pen down and picked up the folder.

“Where did you get this?”

“I have my ways. Now I want to be part of the team.”

“Why?” he inquired surprisingly.

“I’m a trained DA. I can help find people-for instance Jarod.”

“Alright, you will start work two days from today. But there is more to this visit. Isn’t there?”

“Yes, there is. Why did you lie to me about Jarod’s death for fourteen years?”

“I wanted to protect you.” Uncle Parker pushed a button. Willie walked in.

“Willie, show Miss Jamieson to her new office,” replied Mr. Parker handing Willie the keys. I rose. Willie grabbed the keys and we walked out. He led me to a room that was across from my father’s office. Willie unlocked the door. He handed me the keys and left. I turned on the light. Suddenly I remembered why this room looked so familiar. The office had belonged to my mother. I sat down in the chair. I never knew what my mother did that was one of the secrets that died with her and that surrounded her death. I took out a piece of paper and began making a list of what to bring to my new office. A few minutes later my father walked in.

“Why did you become part of this project? A little while ago you were mad that I was a part of it and now you are part of it. Why?” I placed my pen down, placed the list into my purse, and rose. I walked over to my father.

“I have my reasons.” I tried to open the door but my father blocked me.

“What are your reasons?”

“That is none of your business.”

“I’m just trying to help.”

“I know now if you excuse me. I have to go to my other job.” He moved out of the way. I headed down the hall.

Sydney stood outside the door watching his daughter leave. He turned back into the office. He smiled. He could still smell the scent of Mary’s favorite perfume: vanilla. He closed the door and walked back to his office. He sat down in his chair. He looked at the picture of Marie’s baby picture that stood next to the picture of his wife. Oh how she looks like her mother. “You would be proud of Marie, Mary. She is like you in so many ways. She even looks like you,” he said out loud at the picture of his wife. He remembered the day he was told he was going to be a father.

A young Sydney walked into his office.

“We are going to be parents my love,” she replied smiling. He brought her hands to his lips and kissed them.

“What are you working on Marie?” I turned my gaze away from the computer.

“Hi. Jack. I’m just working on my latest case,” I replied.

“Oh. I brought you coffee,” said Jack sitting down in a chair in front of my desk. He handed me the Styrofoam cup.

“Thanks I was up early the s’morning,” I stated.

“I can see that.”

“You can?”

“The dark circles.”

I smiled. “Right.”

“So what’s ya latest case?”

“Oh, it’s just secrets and unanswered questions of my past.”

“Wow! Well, I should go. I’ve work to do and you’ve got work to do,” he stated rising.

“Thanks for the coffee.” He smiled. “Don’t mention it.” I turned back to what I was doing. I was trying to see what the Centre database had on my mother. So far the only thing I found was that she was an investigator. An investigator of what, though? I went back to the search engine and typed in Catherine Parker. I took another sip of my coffee. The file came up. I skimmed the page. It said the same thing that she was an investigator. This is strange either my mother and aunt’s file was deleted and rewritten or-or what? I leaned back. I don’t even know “what” is yet. I looked at my watch. It was almost three. I took out a notebook and wrote down my mother’s name and underneath that my aunt’s. I added a dash and the word investigator to both names. Circling their names, I rose. I turned the light off and walked out. I drove home.

I was in my room a half hour later. I was unpacking a box. I picked up my mother’s picture frame and placed it on the bedside table. I picked up the last thing in the box. I walked over to my bureau. I placed my perfume on top. I paused. The phone was ringing. I walked over to the desk and picked it up.

“Hello.”

“What happened to the little girl I knew?”

“Jarod. What are you talking about? I’m still that girl just older and wiser. ”

“I’m talking about the project, Marie. Why did you join it?” he demanded angrily.

“Cause I want to help you.”

“You mean bring me back.”

“No, I don’t. I mean I want to help you to stay free.”

“How do I know that’s your words and not some Centre trick?”

“You don’t. You’ll just have to trust me.” I heard a click and a steady dial tone. He had hung up again. I stood there. I can’t believe he doesn’t believe me.

Jarod sat there. He felt hurt. His only friend in the world besides Sydney is now working for the people who used me. He waved his hands. A waiter came over. He ordered a doctor pepper. Once the waiter had left he took out his red notebook. He flipped to a page that had a picture of young female firefighter. His drink came and he drank some of it. Paying for it he rose.

Marie walked over to her desk and sat down. She didn’t know what to do. She had finished unpacking the last box. She turned around. There was a towel on the bed. She walked over to it, picked it up and headed down stairs. She turned left down the hall. She came to a closet. Opening the door, she turned on the light. She moved some of the towels around… She paused. Her fingers had touched something hard.

She removed the top three towels. There was a box underneath them. She picked it up. Placing it under her left arm she placed the towels back including the towel from her room. Turning the light off, she closed the door. She headed into the kitchen. She placed the box on the table and went over to a draw. She took out a brush and walked over to the table. She gently brushed off the dust. The box was gold with silver flowers. She began brushing lightly on top off it. She placed the brush down and blew on the box. The box was inscribed with the name Mary. The box belonged to her mother. She sat down. Opening the box, she took out several pictures. Ding, Dong. She rose and walked over to the front door. She opened the door.

“Are you Miss Jamieson?”

“Yes.”

“I have two letters for you,” replied the mailman reaching into his bag and taking out the letters. He handed them to me.

“Thank you,” I replied.

“No problem. Oh and by the way. Don’t open them until ten pm about three nights from now.”

“Why?”

“Don’t know. I was just following instructions that I received from an anonymous phone call.”

“Do you know if the voice sounded like male or female?”

“It sounded like a man.”

“O.k. thanks,” I replied closing the door. I walked back into the kitchen and placed the letters on the counter. Just then the phone rang.

“Hello.”

“Did you get the letters?”

“Yes, I did, Jarod.” I sat down.

“Did ya know it was me?”

“Yes I did.”

“Remember to follow the instructions.” The phone went to dial tone. I rose to hang it up but the phone rang again.

“Hello.”

“Marie, I want to talk to you. Can we meet somewhere?”

“Where did you have in mind?”

“Do you have a piece of paper?” I walked over to a draw and pulled out a pen and pad of paper.

“I do now.”

“Do you know the park across from the cemetery?”

“Yes.” I wrote down the name of the cemetery.

“We will meet there in five minutes.” I hung up the phone and walked over to the closet. I took and out my coat and walked outside.

I drove the car up to the edge of a sidewalk and parked the car beside my father’s car. I turned the car off. I opened the door and climbed out. I walked over to my father, who was leaning on his car, jacket draped over his arms.

“Dad,” I said hugging him.

“Marie,” he said returning the embrace.

“Let’s go this way,” he said after a minute. We walked down a path that winded through the park. We were silent for a moment.

“You know we took you here when you three years old,” commented my father. I smiled.

“I remember. I would ask mom what the names of all the different flowers were…”

“And I told you the ones she didn’t know,” finished my father. We both laughed. I brushed back a piece of hair out of my eyes. There was silence. We turned left down the path.

“Marie I want to apologize. I shouldn’t have lied to you about Jarod’s death and my work involving the Retrieval Project.”

“Apology accepted. I want to apologize as well. I shouldn’t have said those things to you earlier.”

“No, you were right. Your mother would have been ashamed and disappointed in me.”

“So… are we close again-like a daughter and father should be?” I inquired.

“Yes. We will always be close. No matter what happens,” replied my father placing his arms around me. I leaned in closer. It felt nice to be in his arms again. I smiled. I felt like a child again. We walked in each others arms for a few minutes.

“You know your mother would be very proud of you. The way you turned out. You’re a remarkable young woman.”

“Really?”

“Yes. You look very much like your mother and aunt.” I looked at my watch.

“It’s getting late. I should probably get going,” I stated.

“I was hoping we would go see your mother.” We walked over to our cars. My father opened the drunk of his car and took out a bouquet of flowers. We walked across the road to the cemetery. My mother’s grave was in the third section towards the back. I hadn’t been here since the day of her funeral. I felt my knees buckle. A sudden pain filled my lungs. I knelt down. I brought my fingers to my lips, kissed them, and touched the grave stone. Rising I whispered, “I love you.”

Sydney watched his daughter as she kissed the gravestone with her hands. When she was finished, he bent down and placed the flowers on her grave. He traced the name of his dead wife. He whispered, “I miss you my love.” Silently we walked back to our cars. We stood there for a moment.

“I should go. I have some things to still find to bring to my new office tomorrow.”

“Alright, I will see you tomorrow then,” he replied. I climbed into my car and drove away. As I reached the intersection of town, I couldn’t hold back the tears anymore. They kept coming and coming. I had to pull up beside a sidewalk because I couldn’t see. I turned the car off. I sat there crying. I still felt that pain in my lungs. But this time it was unbearable. I laid my head on the steering wheel. I laid there crying. Bang, bang. I looked up. I brushed back a tear and rolled down the window.

“Is there a problem miss?” asked an officer.

“No there is no problem officer,” I replied trying not to sound upset.

“Ok. Good day miss,” he said tipping his hat.

“Good day officer.” I rolled up the window and turned the car on. Turning right at the intersection, I drove home. I pulled up into the driveway and climbed out. Silently I unlocked the door and walked in. A sudden urge of tiredness came over me as I stood in the hall. I walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge. I pulled out leftover pasta and placed it in the microwave. I pushed the answering button on my phone machine. You have no messages it replied. I took out my dinner and walked upstairs. Placing the plate on the table, I walked into the bathroom and turned on the water in the bathtub. Then walking back into my room and picked up my plate and the phone. I reentered the bathroom and climbed in. The hot water felt good on my tired body. That pain in my lungs was still there but it wasn’t as fierce. I picked up the phone.

“Hello.”

“How was your meeting with your mother?”

“Jarod, how do you seem to know my everyday movements?”

“Oh I don’t. It was just a wild and lucky guess.”

“A very lucky guess indeed. It went well.”

“Got to go, I’ve work to do,” Jarod stated hanging up. I placed the phone down and finished my dinner.

Half hour later I was sitting at my desk. Chair facing the door. I stared at the box that stood near the door all ready to bring to my new office. “Do I really want this? To work at the Centre, a place where I had grown up,” I asked myself. “But if I don’t,” I continued rising and walking over to my bed, “Jarod may never be free.” I pulled the covers back and went to bed.

The clock on my wristwatch read six as I ran up my driveway. Pausing halfway back bent hands on my knees catching my breath. I had gone out as accustomed for a run. I walked causally up to the door, picked up the morning paper, and walked in. I sat down heavily in the dining room chair and began flipping through the newspaper. I quickly rushed by the section on “Daily Fires.” I paused. I turned back to the page. There in the middle of the page was a picture of Jarod. Quickly rising I walked over to a table by the door. Picking up the phone, I dialed Jack’s number.

“Hello.”

“Jack, can you get in touch with the Blue Cove News?”

“Ya sure, I can. Why?”

“I need a favor.”

“Sure what can I do for you?” Jack replied leaning back in his office chair.

“Can you find out when the latest article on fires and this new firefighter was written?”

“I will do that,” he replied quickly writing down notes. “When do you need it by?”

“Today would be nice.”

“Alright I will see what I can do.”

“Thanks,” I replied hanging up. Placing the phone back in its charger, I headed upstairs. I took out a brown duffle bag and threw it on the bed. I spent an hour packing. I stood in the centre of my room and stared at the bag. Now is my chance to show Jarod that I am here to help him, I thought. Hearing the phone, I grabbed the bag and lugged it down stairs.

Sydney sat in his office puzzled. His daughter should have arrived at the Centre an hour ago. He glanced at the clock for the third time. It was already eight. He reached for the phone. Picking it up, he began dialing her number. After dialing the second number he decided against it. Laying the phone down, he picked up a folder on Jarod’s latest whereabouts.

Miss Parker stomped in. Broots followed close behind. Sydney could tell that Miss Parker was angry by the way she walked in.

“I don’t get it Syd Marie should have been here an hour ago,” said Miss Parker pacing the office.

“I don’t either. She told Mr. Parker she wanted to work here. You would think she would arrive early on the first day to make a good impression,” stated Sydney.

“We could always go and get her,” suggested Broots.

Miss Parker stopped.

“That’s a thought. Let’s go,” she replied walking out.

“Broots!” Miss Parker shouted. Broots jumped looking at Sydney. He just shrugged.
He walked out. Sydney rose, grabbed his coat off the back of the chair and walked out.

Picking up the phone I answered, “Hello.”

“Hey I got the information you wanted.”

“Great thanks.”

“I sent it to your pom pilot.”

“Ok. Thanks again Jack.”

“No problem.” I hung up and grabbed my luggage. Walking out, I locked the door and climbed into my car. I backed out of the driveway and drove off.

Meanwhile Sam’s car just turned down onto the street.

“Hey isn’t that Marie’s car?” Broots asked pointing out the window as Sam’s car passed the half way mark. Sydney and Miss Parker looked out the direction Broots mentioned.

“Yes,” replied Sydney. “That is her car.” Miss Parker looked at Sydney.

“I don’t know where she is going Parker.”

“Miss Parker what do you want me to do?”

“Pull into her driveway,” she replied. Sam drove the car into the driveway. Sam parked the car and got out. He walked over to the car and opened the door. Miss Parker climbed out. Reaching into her pocket she retrieved a pair of sunglasses. After she put them on, she walked up to the door. Sydney and Broots following close on her heels. Sam stood a distance from Sydney and Broots.

“Syd the key,” she demanded holding her hand out. He reluctantly handed her the spare key. Taking the key, she unlocked the door and walked in. Sydney followed. Broots hesitated.

“Don’t you think we should call her? I mean we are invading her space and her personnel life.” Miss Parker paused.

“No I don’t. Do you Syd?” Sydney didn’t reply. He felt that he was intruding on his daughter’s privacy.

“Get in here you idiot,” screamed miss parker. Broots walked in.

“What are we looking for?” Broots asked making sure he chose his words carefully.

“Oh I don’t know. Maybe anything that will explain Marie’s sudden absence,” replied Miss Parker sarcastically.

“Sam,” called Miss Parker. Sam walked in and held out a bag. She reached in and took out three pairs of gloves. Handing them to Sydney and Broots, she put on hers. Broots went into the kitchen, Miss Parker went upstairs, and Sydney went into the dining room.

Meanwhile Marie had just passed through the Delaware border. She pulled into the rest stop. She parked the car and took out her pom -pilot. She scanned her e-mail. She found the document and opened it. She scanned it. Placing it back into her purse she drove back onto the highway.

“Did you find anything Syd?” asked Miss Parker walking down the stairs.

“No. What about you?”

“Nothing,” she replied agitated. He too felt agitated.

“Broots,” called Miss Parker.

“I found nothing,” he replied. Miss Parker ran her fingers through her hair.

“Let’s go,” she replied walking out. Sam opened the car door. She climbed in. Sydney and Broots climbed in through the other door.

An hour later, Marie was sitting on her hotel bed in Pittsburgh. She was looking over her notes. Jarod was using the alias of Jarod O’Leary and working as a firefighter. The question was why? Did something happen to a firefighter here in Pittsburgh? She took out her phone and dialed the DA office.

“Hello,” answered a young woman.

“Hi this is Ms. Marie Jamieson. I work with the DA’s office in Blue Cove, Delaware. I was wondering if you can tell me if there have been any deaths recently.”

“Is there any specific person or case you are looking for?”

“Yes. I’m looking to see if any firefighters have died in the past few weeks to months.”

“Yes, there was one here in Pittsburgh. Her name was Tamara Copeland.”

“Thank you,” I replied hanging up. I lay down on the bed.

Sydney, Broots, and Miss Parker were in Sydney’s office. Miss Parker was sitting in his chair, Sydney sat on the edge of the desk and Broots sat in the other chair.

“You know we can always trace Marie by using her phone,” suggested Broots.

“What?” Miss Parker asked.

“You know the phone company. We could use her phone company to find where her last call was sent to.” Sydney knew he couldn’t just sit here and keep quit. This was his daughter’s private life. We have no right to pry into it. He had to speak up.

“If we find out where the call was to we find Marie,” stated Miss Parker pleased.

“No. We will leave Marie alone. I’m sure Marie has a good reason for not being here,” stated Sydney. Miss Parker rose.

“I’ve work to do.” She walked out. Broots followed.

Miss parker waited out in the hall leaning on the wall. Broots walked by. Miss parker stepped into his path.

“I want you to do as you suggested as soon as I give you permission. You hear me, Broots.”

“B-b-but Sydney said not to,” He stammered.

“I don’t care what Sydney said.”

Sydney sat down in his chair. He knew Miss Parker would go ahead and trace Marie’s last call with or without his consent. Then why did I speak up, knowing Parker would do it anyways? Maybe it was because he wouldn’t forgive himself later for not speaking up. He opened a draw and took out a tin chest.

Miss Parker pushed open the door to her father’s office.

“What do you mean you haven’t found her yet? I told you Gar to gather and team together and go find her,” stated Mr. Parker on the phone. Walking over to her father’s desk, she paused and folded her hands together.

“Oh you can’t find her.”

“Well find her and bring her back,” demanded Mr. Parker hanging up.

“Hello angel,” he replied calmly.

“Daddy, any luck?”

“No,” he said gravely.

“This is a waste of time,” said a voice. Miss Parker turned around. Mr. Raines walked out from among the shadows. Ignoring Raines’s comment Miss Parker stated, “Daddy, Broots has given us a new method on finding Marie.”

“What is it?”

“We track down her last call through her phone company which…”

“Which tells us the exact location of Marie,” interrupted Mr. Parker.

“I love it. Do it,” he continued.

“Yes, Daddy.” Miss Parker left and walked into the elevator.

Once Miss Parker had left Mr. Raines began, “Your daughter should be out finding Jarod instead of looking for Ms. Jamieson.”

“Enough. I know what your feelings are towards this issue. But right now the safety of my niece is the high priority.”

“Besides we have Angelo working on finding Jarod as we speak,” concluded Mr. Parker. Raines wheezed twice before replying, “Very well.” Raines left the office dragging the oxygen tank behind him. Willie met him in the hallway.

“See how Angelo is doing on tracking Jarod.”

“Yes, sir.”

Back in Sydney’s, Sydney was looking through a tin chest. Taking out a card he placed his elbows onto his desk. The card had a drawing on the front of him and Jarod. Smiling he read: Happy Father’s Day. Placing it back into its spot he took out a picture of a vacation they took in Cape Cod. He could still here the cries of the Sea Gulls, the smell of the saltwater, and the voice of his daughter and wife.

“Daddy, Mommy look at me,” cried a happy 3-year-old Marie as she climbed on the rocks that ran along the shore.

“Thank you so much,” replied Mary taking the camera.

Sydney placed the picture aside. He thought Marie should have it. Reaching into the box, he took out another picture. He remembered this well because his wife wasn’t with them. Placing it back he retrieved the thing he was looking for: a black phone that he bought. He bought an identical one for Marie. This will be the way he will reach her. But now he told himself when the time is right he will car her.

Meanwhile Miss Parker had reached the level which the Tec Room was on. She walked into the room.

She called, “Broots!” Rolling her eyes she walked over to Broots. Placing one hand on her hip, she yelled again, “Broots!” Broots jumped and brought his feet down. Taking of his headphones, he looked up.

“Yes.”

“You have permission.”

“Permission?” She rolled her eyes again.

“Permission to find that last call you idiot.”

“Oh right, what about Sydney?”

“Never mind him, just find that last call.”

“Yes, right away Miss Parker.” Miss Parker headed towards the door. Pausing she turned around.

“Oh and Broots, you will report to me only. Do not mention a word of this to Syd.” Broots nodded. Once Miss Parker had left Broots went onto the phone company site. He clicked on Marie’s name. A minute alter the page came up. Clicking on the top button that read “download”, he rose. He had a weird feeling in the pit of his stomach. He decided that moment he was going to tell Syd. He walked out.

Seconds later Broots stood in front of Syd’s office. He looked both ways making sure Miss parker wasn’t in sight, before knocking.

“Come in.” Broots opened the door.

“Hello Broots,” replied Syd.

Walking in Broots began, “Syd there’s something I need to tell you.”

“Miss Parker is having you trace Marie’s calls,” stated Sydney before Broots could.

“How did you know?” asked Broots dumbstrucked.

“I figured Miss Parker would do it anyways no matter what I said.”

“What do you want me to do?”

“Continue to do what Parker says.” Broots nodded and walked out. He felt better as he made his way back to the Tech Room.

Marie sat up. She cleared her head from her dream. Ever since she saw Jarod all her childhood memories involving him came back. Ones she thought she had forgotten. Turning the light on, she took out paper and pen and made a list of what to do in the morning. She had to find Jarod and help him leave Pittsburgh before her cousin arrives. She knew it was only a matter of days before the Centre finds out where Jarod was. But for some reason she wasn’t worried. She knew Jarod would find a way to escape. He always has. Besides he is after all a genius. Soon her eyes began to droop and she fell asleep.

I awoke up early the next morning. Grabbing my notes, I headed downstairs to the hotel lobby. Sitting down I ordered breakfast. As I drank my glass of juice, I poured over my notes and looked through the newspaper. There was nothing in it on Jarod or on the station.

“Will that be all?” asked the waiter who handed me my breakfast.

“Um yes that will be all. Oh do you by any chance know where the fire station is?”

“Of course, I do dear.”

Can you please tell me where it is? I handed her a piece of paper and pen. She took them and wrote down the directions.

“Thank you,” I replied looking at the notes.

Meanwhile back at the Centre, Miss Parker was walking into her office. Broots waited behind a stone pillar, until Miss Parker was completely inside before walking over. Knocking he went in.

“Why Broots you’re just the person I wanted to see. Is there any news on tracking Marie?” She was in a pleasant mood today thought Broots.

“I’m afraid not.”

“What do you mean?” She demanded. Her pleasantness faded away. Broots flinched.

“The only phone calls she made were either between her and the Centre, between her and Syd, or between her the DA’s office.”

“Who was she calling at DA’s office?”

“A man named Jack Reiner.”

“Did you call him?”

“Yes.”

“And what did he say?”

“He told me that the whereabouts of Ms. Jamieson was confidentional and only known between fellow assistants.”

“Did you tell him that we didn’t care if it was confidentional?” she questioned irritated.

“Yes, I did. He told me he still couldn’t tell me and that he was sorry. Then he hung up.”

“Urgh!” Miss Parker cried.

“Do you have the list of calls?” Broots handed the list to her. Taking it fiercely out of his hands, she scanned it.

Grinning she stated, “Broots you forgot something?”

“I did?”

“Yes, the cell phone calls.”

“Oh. I will do that straight away,” he added quickly walking out. Standing outside he debated if he should tell Syd or not. Just then he caught a glimpse of Sydney.

“Sydney,” he called walking over to him.

“Hello Broots.”

“Miss Parker is having me trace Marie’s cell phones now. I thought you would want to know,” whispered Broots.

“Thank you, Broots.”

Placing one hand on Broots’ shoulder, Syd whispered, “Keep me informed,” and walked away. Broots headed back to the Tech Room.

Meanwhile Miss Parker walked out of her office and headed to her father’s office. A few minutes ago she received a call from her father asking to come down to his office. Opening the door she walked in.

“You wanted to see me Daddy.”

“Yes, I do Angel.”

“Have you checked on the progress on tracking Jarod?”

“No, I haven’t. I’ve been…”

“Will you check on it for me Angel?”

“Yes, Daddy,” she replied stunned.

“Oh and by the way. How is it going on finding your cousin?”

“We are still working on it. But I’ll keep you posted.” She walked out agitated. Yesterday her father said finding Marie was high priority. Now he has gone back to Jarod. Sighing she thought, “some days she felt like she didn’t know her own father. Today was one of those days”. She headed down to the room where Angelo was in.

Back in Pittsburgh Marie was finishing her breakfast. Rising, I laid the money on the table and walked out. Climbing into my car, I drove to the station. Stepping out, I walked inside.

“Excuse me,” I called to a young man who was scrubbing the fire engine.

“Hey Chief, there’s someone here,” the man called. An older man walked out from his office.

“Can you help me?”

“Yes, I’m looking for…” I was interrupted by the noise of the lawn mower.

“What I can’t hear you? Let’s go into my office where it is quieter,” he shouted leading me into his office. Shutting the door and walking over to his chair, he said, “Now what can I do for you?” Sitting down, he indicated for me to sit.

“I’m looking for this man. Have you seen him?” I inquired sitting down and showing him a photo of Jarod.

“Oh yes, I do know him. Jarod is his name.”

“Can you tell me where to find him?”

“I’m afraid he isn’t here at the moment. Why are you looking for him?”

“I just want to ask him a few questions.” I rose.

“Do you want me to tell him you were looking for him?”

“No.” I walked out and drove back to the hotel.

Miss Parker walked down the steps and headed over to where Sam was standing. Looking at Angelo, a shiver ran down her spine. The way he walked, back hunched over, hands behind his back. His hair moving back and forth as he walked. The very sight of him scared her.

“Any luck with Angelo?” she asked still staring at Angelo.

“He has come to the last pile of newspapers.”

“Tell me when he has come to the last newspaper.” Sam nodded. She felt better as she walked back to her office.

Sydney sat down in his office chair. He pressed the button on his answering machine. There were no messages from Marie or from anyone. He had hoped she would have contacted him by now. Maybe she should call her, he thought. No, not yet, he reminded himself. He will call her when Miss Parker knows where she is.

Marie opened the door to her room. Taking out her computer she sat down on the bed. She began to work on a report for one of her cases. Glancing over to her suitcase, she saw the black phone that her father gave her, laying on top of a pile of clothes. Maybe it was time to contact him. Putting her computer down, she walked over to her suitcase, took out the phone and dialed her father’s number.

Sydney took out a file and began to read it. Ring, Ring. Picking up the phone, he replied “Hello this is Sydney.”

“Hi Dad, It is Marie.”

“Marie you shouldn’t have called here. They can track the call. We have been looking for you.”

“Don’t worry dad. I’m using the black phone. They can’t trace it. I know you have been looking for me. I figured you would.” I walked over to the bed and sat down.

“I called to tell you not to worry and that I’m fine.”

“Where are you?”

“I’m on business.”

“You know it will be only a matter of days before Parker finds you. She is having Broots track you through your calls.”

“Tell me when she plans to come find me,” I replied hanging up. I sat there wishing that I could tell him that I went after Jarod. But I knew he wouldn’t understand.

Broots walked over to Miss Parker’s office and knocked. He opened the door and poked his head through the door.

“Broots, please tell me you have good news.” He walked in.

“I do.”

“What is it?”

“I found Marie.”

“What! You found her?”

“Yes.”

“Where is she?”

“She is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.”

“Excellent! My father will be very pleased.” Rising she said, “Broots fetch Syd and meet me in my father’s office.”

Miss Parker pushed open the door to her father’s office.

“Daddy I have good news.”

“What is it?”

“We found Marie.”

“Excellent! Where is she?”

“She is in Pittsburgh.”

“What is she doing in Pennsylvania?”

“We don’t know. But we will soon find out. I hope to…”

“You wanted to see me Parker.”

“Good news Sydney we found Marie. She is staying at a hotel in Pittsburgh.”

“That is wonderful.”

“When do you plan on leaving angel?”

“I plan, with Broots and Syd, to leave tomorrow.”

“Good. The sooner she is back the better.” Sydney quietly snuck out and headed over to his office. Opening the door and walking over to his desk, he quickly pulled out the back phone from its hiding place in the bottom desk draw. Closing the door, he dialed Marie’s number. He knew it was a matter of seconds, maybe if he was lucky, minutes before Parker notices his absence.

Marie sat in her car a few meters away from the fire station. Looking through her camera, she could see Jarod and the other firefighters working. Placing the camera down, she picked up her cell phone.

“Hello,” she answered. No answer.

Sydney started pacing his office. What is taking her so long to pick up? Pausing he listened. He heard footsteps. He waited to see what would happen. The footsteps came nearer and nearer. Then they began to fade away. Sighing with relief, he thought, Thank goodness it wasn’t Parker.

Realizing it wasn’t her cell phone; she placed the phone down and rummaged through her purse. Picking up the black phone she quickly answered.

“Hello dad, what is it?”

“Marie, what took you so long to answer?”

“I had to…”

“Never mind about that, now listen closely Parker knows where you are now.”

“When is she planning on leaving?”

“She is planning on leaving Blue Cove tomorrow.”

“O.k. thanks for telling me. Bye.”

Sydney quickly placed the phone is his draw as he heard the noise of the doorknob turning. Miss Parker and Broots walked in.

“Syd, why did you leave so suddenly?” inquired Parker with raised eyebrows.

“I had to make an important phone call.”

“Alright well we are leaving tomorrow morning.” Sydney nodded. They walked out.

Marie picked up her camera again and scanned the station. No one was outside. They must have gone in. She drove off to the hotel.

Knocking on Miss Parker’s door, Sam went in.

“Is the jet ready, Sam?”

“Yes, everything is ready.”

“Where are Broots and Syd?”

“They are on board.”

“Good.” She pulled on her jacket. Sam opened the door for her. She walked through.

“There is something I’ve been meaning to discuss with you.”

“What that’s?” They walked by her father’s office.

“Good luck angel,” stated her father opening the door to his office.

“Sydney has been acting strange ever since his daughter arrived.” Opening the door to the helicopter pad, she demanded, “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying that Syd is hiding something from us. And I think it’s related to the Retrieval Project.” She paused.

“Maybe you’re right.”

Sydney rose.

“Where are you going?” Ignoring Broots, he walked to the men’s room and went in. Reaching into his pocket he took out the black phone. He dialed Marie’s number.

Hearing a ringing noise, Marie walked out from the bathroom. Sitting down on the bed, she picked up the phone.

“Hello.”

“Marie, I can’t talk long. I only called to warn you we are on our way to Pittsburgh.” I ran my fingers through my hair. I was hoping I would have more time.

“When will the jet land?”

“We’ll land in the couple of hours.” I was silent.

“Marie, if I was going to help Jarod I would do it now.”

“How did you know about that?” No answer just a steady dial tone. Placing the phone on the bed, I rose and finished packing. Lugging my suitcase over to the door, I walked out. Walking down the hall, I pressed the elevator button. I walked inside and pressed the down button.

Sydney rejoined the rest of Parker’s team. He sat down next to Broots.

“Is everything alright Syd?”

“Yes, everything is alright Parker.” Miss Parker watched him. There was no expression on his face that would indicate he was hiding something.

“It could be nothing,” she thought.

“Or he’s good at hiding things from people.”

Marie checked out of the hotel. Walking over to her car, she unlocked the back hatch. Opening the hatch, she placed her luggage inside.

“Hello Marie,” replied Jarod leaning against her car, his arms folded.

“Jarod, so we finally meet here.” I closed the hatch. I turned to him.

“I was told you were looking for me. Why?”

“Jarod listen to me the Centre is on its way here to look for you.” Jarod looked around prudently.

“They are not here yet. But they will be here soon.” He was silent.

“Jarod, listen to me. I know you are mad with me but I’m trying to help you. So please leave now while you still can.” I reached for his hand. Moving his hand out of my reach, he turned and walked away.

“Hello,” answered Miss Parker as the jet lifted off the building.

“We’ve found Jarod.”

“Excellent! Where is the little lab rat?”

“He’s in Pittsburgh at the fire station.”

“This is my lucky day.”

“Find your cousin and bring Jarod back, Angel.”

“Well do, daddy. Bye.”

“What is it Parker?” inquired Syd.

“Angelo’s found Jarod. He’s in Pittsburgh. We are to find Marie and bring her back along with Jarod.” Sydney leaned back. So Marie knew all along that Jarod was in Pittsburgh. He wasn’t surprised. She always had this thing for Jarod, ever since she was a little girl.

Marie stood outside her car confused. Jarod had never acted this way before not to her anyways. She opened her car door and drove to the fire station.

Miss Parker climbed out of the limo putting on her expensive sunglasses. Broots and Sydney climbed out through the opposite side. Miss Parker walked up to the hotel and opened the door. She walked in.

“Excuse me have you seen these people?” Her voice was pleasant which was unusual. She was usually uptight when she was in pursuit of Jarod’s trial. She took out two pictures and placed them in front of the desk clerk.

“I have not seen the man but I have seen the woman.” Miss Parker sighed as her face fell at the latter but her face light up again.

“Where is the woman?”

“I’m afraid you just missed her. She checked out about a half hour ago.”

“Thank you, for your time,” said Sydney picking up the pictures. Miss Parker stomped out of the hotel. She took out a cigarette and begun to smoke. Sydney and Broots walked outside.

“Now what do we do?” questioned Broots. Miss Parker threw her cigarette onto the floor.

“We go to the fire station.” She climbed into the limo. Sydney and Broots walked around the car and climbed in.

“Where to Miss Parker?”

“The local fire station Sam and step on it.” Sam started the car and drove off.

Marie parked her car outside the station. She opened her door and climbed out. She began walking around. There was no one inside the station. She checked around back. No one there either. She headed back to her car and waited.

“There’s the station,” stated Miss Parker as the station came in view.

“Park the car a little ways away Sam. I want to take Jarod by surprise.”

Marie looked up as she heard a car. She took out her binoculars. As she looked through them she gasped. Miss Parker and her team were a few yards away. I reached for my black phone and dialed Jarod’s number.

“Hey isn’t that Marie’s car,” declared Miss Parker rolling down the window and pointing at the silver car a few yards away. Sydney looked out the window. He was silent.

“What do you want me to do?”

“Let’s wait here Sam. I want to see what she does.”

“Yes Miss Parker.”

Marie waited for Jarod to pick up as she looked out the rear side mirror. Miss Parker was just sitting there. She was probably waiting for Jarod and to see what I was going to do, I thought.

“Hello.”

“Jarod I don’t have much time. Miss Parker and her team are here. Don’t come to the station. They are waiting here for you.” There was silence.

“Jarod.” He had hung up. She placed the phone down on the seat.

Jarod stood in the middle of the street. He had finished what he came here for. Was Marie lying to me? Or is Miss Parker here? Marie has never lied to me though. He started walking again. He paused a few minutes later at the station. He was fairly well hidden. He stood there scanning the street. He noticed Miss Parker’s car.

Miss Parker looked out his window.

“There he is,” she cried with delight.

“Step on it Sam.” He nodded starting the car.

Marie looked out her window. Miss Parker had Sam start the car. Why, she thought.

“Jarod,” I cried as I saw him lurking in the shadows. I started my car.

Sam drove the car closer to the station.

Marie turned her car towards Jarod. As she passed him she rolled down her window.

“Jarod run. Miss Parker is coming.”

“There goes Marie,” stated Broots. Sydney smiled as his daughter drove off.

“What should we do?” Broots continued. Miss Parker was silent.

“Miss Parker Jarod is getting away,” acknowledged Sam.

“What?” She shouted rolling down the window. She looked out the window.

Jarod turned around and smiled at Miss Parker. He then turned away again and ran off.

Miss Parker rolled up her window. She hit the side of the car.

“Urgh!”

“What do we do now Parker?”

“We go after Marie. Sam step on it.”

“Yes, Miss Parker.” He pressed his foot on the gas petal.

Marie looked over her shoulder. There was no sign of Miss Parker. She smiled looking back to the road. She had finished what she had come to do. Jarod was safe and free. Until the next time the Centre tracks down Jarod.

I lugged my luggage up to the door of my house in Blue Cove. It was good to be home. Placing the luggage down, I unlocked the door. Reaching for my bags, I walked in. I kicked the door close behind me. I pressed the button on my answering machine. There were no messages. I carried them up the stairs and into my room. I placed them onto the bed. I sat down brushing away lose piece of hair. I unbuckled my shoes. I rose and went to my beau and turned the music on. I went back to my suitcase and unzipped the cover. I picked up the two envelopes that I had received three days ago. I opened one of them. I tipped it upside down. Out came a DSA. I rose and went to the closet. Pulling on the light switch, I took down the DSA player. I turned the light off. I went over to the desk. I placed the DSA player on the desk and sat down. I put in the disc.

Jarod. May 6th nineteen- seventy. For Centre Use Only.

“I told you already Jarod,” stated Sydney.

I leaned back. So that was what happened that day. Jarod had never died. I was lied to for 14 years. Not only did Jarod not die but also dad was there. He wasn’t there in the other one. A duplicate Raines had changed under the orders of Mr. Parker. I opened the next envelope. I took out a letter. I opened the folded letter. I read: Don’t let the past rule your life let it guide you to your future. I placed the letter onto the desk. I rose and started pacing the room. I stopped. I reached for my coat off the bed and walked out. I climbed into my car and drove off. I pulled into the cemetery’s parking lot a few minutes later. I climbed out. I walked around to the back and opened the hatch. I took out a bouquet of flowers. Closing the hatch, I made my way to my mother’s grave. Placing my flowers on the grave, I saw a rose. I looked closer at it. There was no note on it. I smiled. The rose was from Jarod.

Jarod stood by watching her. He smiled as she noticed the rose. He loved the way the sun reflected off her beautiful brown hair.

I rose and headed back to my car. I climbed in and drove home. I walked around my room putting clothes away. I paused as the phone rang.

“Hello.”

“Did you open the envelopes?”

“Yes I did. Thanks for sending me the real Sim.”

“You’re welcome.” There was silence. I waited for him to hang up.

“I’m sorry that I didn’t believe you.”

“That’s o.k. I understand.” I went to my bed and sat down.

“Thanks for helping me escape.” I smiled.

“You’re welcome.”

“Do you still have that feeling about your mother’s and aunt’s death?” Jarod turned down the park’s sidewalk.

“Yes I do. I still believe they were murdered.”

“Don’t let that feeling go away.” He hung up. I sat there, smiling. We were friends once again.

Jarod sat down on the bench. He placed his phone away and took out a small red notebook. He flipped to the last page. He picked up a picture he had kept of Marie. He had gone to her school in Maine and asked for her graduating picture. “She is so beautiful,” he thought. He rose and made his way to the road. He was glad he had apologized to her. As he climbed on board the bus, he wondered if they would meet again sometime. He smiled. He knew they would.