Lives Changes 8-C
Jamie didn't stop running, even after hearing the soft voice calling out to him. He was scared. He had just watched as his protection and friend get shot. Jamie didn't even know if Ian was still alive or not, he just did what he was told and took off.
Jamie had been running for twenty minutes when he finally stopped to look around. As he was catching his breath he pulled his cell phone from his jacket and called Donnie's number. The phone rang twice before it was answered. "Osborne here." Donnie answered.
"Donnie, its Jamie, Ian's been shot." Jamie blurted out.
"What, when did this happen?"
"About 30 minutes ago, he told me to run, just before it happened."
"Okay, Jamie I want you to relax, tell me what happened."
"All I know was there were three guys coming towards us, when Ian told me to take off. I guess he saw something."
"Jamie listen I want you to stay on the phone with me, I am going to call the Naples police and get someone to you."
"NOOO, it was a sheriff that shot Ian."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. I saw him in the court house just before Ian and I started out for lunch. We were supposed to be in court this afternoon, now I don't dare go back there."
"No I don't want you to either, but I am sure that the two officers we send to you can be trusted."
"How can I know for sure? Donnie I am scared."
"I know you are, but you have trusted me before, can you trust me again?"
"Okay, but?."
"No buts Jamie, Sam and Liza are friends and you can trust them."
"Shit I got to run, I see them coming."
"Who are coming?"
"The guys that shot Ian."
Hanging up Jamie started running again, this time he watched where he was going. Hiding from the guys chasing him Jamie made it to the small municipal airport. Running inside he looked for a desk where he could buy a ticket. Not seeing anyone around Jamie ran out the back door and saw a small plane being loaded, a few passengers were walking up the steps. Seeing that no one was paying him attention, Jamie quickly joined the last few boarding the plane.
Once seated Jamie pulled his coat tighter around and buckled his belt. Five minutes later the plane was taxiing for takeoff. Once in the air the speakers crackled which startled Jamie." Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen, welcome aboard. Our flying time is about 90 minutes and we will be landing at Andrews' Airport. There will be cars waiting for you, so please sit back and relax. If you need to use you phones please go right ahead." The Captain stated.
Jamie hearing that he could make calls, quickly phoned Donnie back. "Sorry Donnie, but I guess you don't need to send those cops to find me." Jamie said before Donnie had said anything.
"Where are you Jamie?" Donnie asked.
"I believe I am headed to Washington, I am not sure, but that is what the Captain said."
"Where is the plane landing, and what are you doing on a plane?"
"It was the only safe place I could find, and I think the pilot said we would be landing at some place called Andrews."
"Shit, you snuck on a government plane?"
"I guess." Jamie said with a giggle.
"Jamie this isn't funny. Damn, listen I want you to stay on that plane. Even after it lands. Is there a stewardess around?"
"Yes she is coming down the aisle serving drinks."
"Good I want to talk to her."
"Sure, I can tell her."
The stewardess had just got to Jamie's seat and her eyes went wide. "Young man, what are you doing on here?" She asked.
"Umm? Special agent Donnie Osborne needs to talk to you ma'am, he will tell you." Jamie said shyly.
Handing the phone to the lady Jamie turned his head and looked out the window. "Hello agent Osborne, I do hope you can tell me how this boy got on our plane."
"Ms. Jamie Marshall is the young man's name, and I can tell you that his being on that plane is the best thing for him. I know that it is unusual, but I need him to stay on that plane when it lands, I have told him that, but it will be only until I have four agents come and get them. May I ask who is on that plane that makes it such a secret?"
"The plane is the Vice Presidents, he was down in Florida talking to one of the big corporation holders."
"Then there are agents on the plane already?"
"Yes sir we have about a dozen, should I have one call you?"
"Yes as soon as possible, I also know for a fact that the vice president knows Jamie, and if you were to tell him that he was on the plane then things would go easier for me."
"Agent Osborne I can promise you that the VP will know about the young man."
"Okay, my boss and partner is talking to the director of the secret service right now, who will then get in touch with the President, who might then call the VP, all I can say is that Jamie must be kept safe."
"I understand sir. Now I have to go and finish serving these people. I will give Jamie back his phone."
"Thank you ma'am, have a safe flight."
"You're welcome agent." The stewardess said just before handing Jamie back his phone. "Hi Donnie."
"Jamie, whatever you are told to do from here on you do, just like you did with Ian." Donnie ordered.
"Okay, but what is gonna happen?"
"You are going to be getting some visitors, they are agents. Now I want you to hang up and take the battery out of your phone."
"But I will lose all my contacts."
"Jamie, your phone has GPS, do what I told you."
"Okay and sorry Donnie, oh have you heard anything on how Ian is?"
"No I haven't, but when I finish getting you to safety I will make some calls. I will phone Ace and let him know what I find out."
"Okay, but if you see him, please tell him I am sorry."
"It isn't your fault, now say good-bye."
"Okay, good-bye." Jamie said with a laugh he didn't feel. Then hung up and took his battery out.
Dylan Masters' shirt was covered in blood, as he sat on the sidewalk watching the EMT's working on Ian. The police had come over and talked to him. Getting all the information he had. He even told them that Jamie Marshall was running for his life and was not involved in this shooting.
After seeing the EMT's take Ian away Dylan stood. He was mad. Walking back into the courthouse Dylan ignored the sheriffs standing there as he made his way back upstairs and into the court room where the Robertson trial was being held. Walking up to the clerk he stared at her for a minute. "Called Judge Graham and tell him I need to see him right away." Dylan ordered.
"Sir, the judge is having lunch." The clerk stated snottily.
"Listen carefully, I said call him, tell him it is urgent and about this damn trial."
"Fine, but you don't have to be?"
"Just do it."
Judge Graham was just about to bite into a steak sandwich when his phone buzzed. "Yes what is it?" He answered.
"Sir Mr. Masters is here he said it is urgent and about the trial." The clerk replied.
"Tell him we can talk when we resume."
"Sir I don't think that he is going to wait that long."
Hanging up Adam stormed out of his chamber and into the court room. He was about to tear into Dylan when he saw the mess he was in. "You had better come back here Mr. Masters." Adam said softly.
"Thank you sir. I am sorry for interrupting your lunch, but this couldn't wait any longer."
"Any longer, and what couldn't wait."
"Sir, I have a problem, my witnesses for this afternoon are not available."
"Why not?"
"Well one is on the run now and the other is on his way to the hospital. Sir Ian Stillwaters was just shot, and Jamie Marshall is running."
"Are you saying Marshall shot Stillwaters?"
"No sir, Ian told Jamie to run just before being shot. The problem isn't just that, it is the fact that only four people knew Jamie was going to testify today, that is you, me, Ian and Walkerton I didn't tell anyone and I doubt that Ian or you would either, so that leave only one person."
"I don't like what you're saying Dylan, but if it is true, then we don't just have a problem we have a major catastrophe."
"That I know, as for where Jamie is right now I don't have a clue. I was more concerned with Agent Stillwaters, so I didn't pay Jamie any attention."
"It isn't your fault. How crucial is Jamie to this trial?"
"Sir, Jamie read parts of the book, to which you have a photocopy of."
"What I will do is adjourn the trial for a few days, saying that an emergency has come up."
"Well in a way it has, but that may give me time to find Jamie and see what we can work out."
Just an hour southeast of Naples, Malcolm and his group were all sitting back relaxing as their bus cruised the highway. Tony was busy on his phone getting everything ready for the boys when they got home, so he wasn't paying too close to Donnie or his conversation. Hanging up his phone Tony heard Donnie telling someone to take the battery out of their phone. "What was that all about?" Tony asked as soon as Donnie had hung up.
"That was Jamie. He snuck aboard the VP's plane."
"Why would he do that, and where is Ian?"
"That is just it, Ian was shot by a sheriff, and Jamie ran."
"I had better call Ace then and let him know."
"You won't need to, I talked with the stewardess and she informed me that the VP already knows that Jamie is on his plane. I am just waiting for one of his agents to call and I can fill him in."
"I still have to call Ace and let him know. I would rather do it now than have him chew me out later."
"Better you than me. Besides I have a feeling that Jamie is going to need more people than the VP has."
"Did you learn anything on how Ian was doing?"
"I haven't had time and I can't until the agents call me back. Unless I can use your phone?"
"No I will call Sam Johnson and see what he can tell me, but only after I call Ace."
"Like I said better you than me."
"Malcolm." Patrick whispered. "Did you hear that, Jamie is on his own again?"
"No I wasn't paying close attention to their talk, I was off in another world. I am just glad that we will be home soon."
"So am I buddy, this trip has worn us all out. I mean look at Zeke and Aaron, they're both out like the dead."
"I know, but with dad campaigning along side of me who else could look after those two?"
"Papa Daniels could have looked after him, but he isn't in good shape and they would wear him out fast."
"I just hope he gets home soon." Malcolm whispered.
There it was the house. To Malcolm there wasn't anything better looking. After six weeks on the road, sleeping in hotels, the thought of his own bed gave his a small chuckle. Malcolm knew that the Jacobs house wouldn't be finished for a while, but that just meant more time with Patrick.
As soon as the bus had stopped, Aaron and Zeke ran off and took midnight with them so the pup could do his stuff. With Malcolm and the rest slowly exiting the bus and stretching. Tony and Donnie both standing beside the two boys. Looking at the house Malcolm was surprised to see the front door open. Turning to say something to Tony about his he saw Jordan Martin standing across the street. Malcolm was going to say something to Tony when Patrick grabbed his arm. "Come on dude let's get inside before the news people and crowds show up. We need some time away from everyone."
"You're right Patrick." Malcom whispered before hollering for Zeke and Aaron to come inside.
The afternoon at the courthouse was a madhouse. When the trial for the Richardson's had resumed. The first thing that Judge Graham did was clear the room. Once that was done and the doors locked. Adam turned to the DA and defence. "Gentleman, due to an emergency this case is being adjourned until Thursday. At that time I expect to have everyone here that can be." Adam said the last part more for Dylan than for the defence, knowing that Ian wouldn't be there. Continuing Adam stared at Walkerton. "Mr. Walkerton, I have to ask, who did you inform about the witnesses for this case?"
"Sir, I just told the bailiff that he was to make sure that everyone was here." Walkerton lied.
"I see, did you take into account you could jeopardize this case?"
"Sir, with all due respect, I have the right to know if the witnesses are here."
"You do, but you could have gone out and checked for yourself."
"I could have sir, but I was busy talking with my clients. I didn't think there would be any harm done."
"Case is adjourned and Mr. Walkerton, you are not to talk to anyone about this trial until after it comes to conclusion. That goes for you too Mr. Masters." Adam stated angrily before leaving the bench.
Walkerton gathered up his papers and stuffed them into his briefcase, all the while staring at Dylan. Eric Robertson sat at the table waiting for the guard to come and take him back to the holding cell. Just before he showed up, Eric looked at Walkerton. "Looks like the case will be thrown out now." He said with a laugh.
"What do you mean? Marshall is still on the loose and Stillwaters is alive." Walkerton stated vehemently.
"So, it just means that they won't be here to testify. Not that either of them knew much."
"Listen as long as that kid is out there you are going to jail, he disappears and you walk free. I don't think the judge will allow Brady Martin's death bed confession."
"What confession?" Eric asked.
"The one the Naples police have right at this moment. Now go back to your cell and for god's sake keep your mouth shut."
"Fine, but you had better do something, even if it means calling that Jacobson woman and getting her to use whatever she can to help you."
"I'll do what I can, but you have to do your part also."
Aboard the VP's plane Jamie was sitting back relaxing having finished a soda and sandwich when his thoughts were interrupted. "Mr. Marshall, I am Austin Sinclair, I head the VP's security, would you please come with me. The VP would like to have a word with you."
"Umm? I guess I am in trouble aren't I?"
"I don't think so, but honestly young man, if it was me you would be in handcuffs. You seem to have some very good friends."
"I hope so. Did Mr. Osborne call you?" Jamie said with a smile.
"No I called him as the stewardess asked me to, that is the only reason I haven't cuffed you."
"Oh."
Standing Jamie followed Sinclair to the back of the aircraft. Knocking on the door Sinclair announced Jamie then stepped aside. Once Jamie was inside, Sinclair closed the door and stood right in front of it.
"Come in Jamie." The vice President said with a chuckle.
"Sir, I am sorry, I didn't mean to cause problems." Jamie said as he stared at the floor.
"Problems, what problems? I am happy to see you again, though I must admit I would have preferred meeting another way."
"So would I have sir, but I didn't know what else to do, when I saw the people boarding I just followed."
"Jamie relax. Austin told me what is going on. I would rather you be on this aircraft than some table in the morgue."
"Thank you sir."
"Now when we get to Washington, what are your plans?"
"Hiding, maybe try to find that bodyguard of Bennie Jacobs. I don't know yet sir and honestly I don't know who to trust anymore."
"Very understandable, but I have a solution for you, if you are willing to listen."
"I am willing sir, not saying I will take it."
"Good, now what I think we can do, is have you stay with me until we can work things out for your safety?"
"Sir what about your wife?"
"She will love you, and this is my second wife."
"Oh, well can I think about it, I mean I would like to talk with Agent Mason."
"You have until we land Jamie, after that you won't have a choice." The VP said, before hollering for Sinclair. "Take Mr. Marshall back to his seat and make sure he is fed more than just a sandwich, then come back here there is something I want you to do."
"Yes sir, Mr. Marshall please follow me." Sinclair stated.
When Jamie had left, the VP picked up his phone and called the director of the Justice department. As he was talking to her, Sinclair came back and sat in front of the desk. "? I want her found and brought to Washington immediately. You can tell her that it is an order from the Vice President, not her ex-husband." Hanging up, the VP smiled. "Austin thank you for coming back."
"Sir, Matt we have been together for a long time and I have never seen you this worried." Austin stated.
"That's just it Austin, I am worried. I am worried for that boy out there. What I would like you to do is call Rich Mason and see if he has the DNA profile for Tony Marchand. If he does then I would like you to ask Jamie to give us a blood sample."
"Sir, do you know what you're saying?"
"Austin if I am right, that boy went missing when he was just a tyke, maybe 2 or three. That is about the time that Marchand's son disappeared also."
"Sir, with all due respect that was thirteen years ago, you were a senator then."
"Yes I was and had just married a Susan Marchand, who had been divorced a year. She claimed never to have had a child, but now I think she did and Jamie is that child."
"But didn't Marchand said his son was dead?"
"That is what he was told. I know for a fact that he never made it to the funeral, if there even was one."
"What are you going to do if you are proven right?"
"That I don't know yet."
Rich "Ace" Mason was not having a good day, it seemed like everything was against him, first his spilt his coffee all over the table, then an hour later his back started to throb where he had been shot. Now he was informed that Jamie Marshall was on the vice Presidents plane and he got there by sneaking on. After hearing that he tried to call Ian Stillwaters only to get his voice mail. Just after trying Ian's number Tony Marchand phoned to tell him that Ian had been shot and that Jamie was on the run.
No sooner had Ace finished talking with Tony and hanging up, when his phoned chirped, this time it was the head of the Vice presidents detail calling and telling him that the VP wanted to know if they had any DNA for Tony Marchand. Now here he was walking towards the President's office and dreading the news he was bringing. Having asked if the President had a few minutes to spare, Ace was quickly shown into the office. Closing the door Ace waited until Ben caught his attention. "What can I do for you Ace?" Ben asked.
"Sir I don't know if you have been informed, but Agent Stillwaters was shot this morning." Ace stated.
"How bad is he?" Ben asked.
"That I don't know sir. The other thing is the young man agent Stillwaters was protecting, he somehow got onto the Vice Presidents plane. To add more fuel to the situation. The Vice President has asked for Tony Marchand's DNA. Sir I don't know what is going on, but it can't be good."
"You're right there, but like I always said security is your job, I know you can handle it, if not then I wouldn't have you on my team."
"I know that Sir and I thank you. I was wondering I could send Dusty and JR Carl out to Andrews to pick up the young man?"
"You do what you think is best, and Ace, you never told me this young man's name, do you know who it is?"
"Yes sir. It is Jamie Marshall.
Ben was about to make a reply when his desk phone chimed. "Mr. President, the Vice president is on line two for you." His secretary told him.
"Okay put him through."
"Ben, it is Matt, we have a problem." Matt stated quickly.
"I know we do, let me ask this Matt, is the boy safe?"
"You know already?"
"Yes I have Agent Mason here in my office and he just filled me in on what has happened."
"Then you know that Jamie will only talk with Agent Mason. I have tried to get Sinclair to talk to him, but Jamie refuses. Ben that boy is petrified."
"Matt how many security people do you have?" Ben asked.
"I have four with me and more should be with the vehicles when we land."
"When you know for sure let me know, and Matt don't leave Andrew's until you have called me."
"Ben, what the hell is going on?"
"Sir." Ace interrupted. "Excuse me for interrupting, but we don't know and won't know until I have spoken with young Mr. Marshall."
"Okay, Ben we land in ten minutes, I will phone you back in eleven. Then I am going home to rest."
"I don't blame you Matt, by the way how did the meeting go with Mr. Caine and Aphex?"
"Ben, Mr. Caine told me he would think your offer over and get back to me. I gave him my personal number so he wouldn't have to go through the switch board."
"Well if he comes on board with this, he is going to be a very busy man." Ben laughed.
"You already knew that. Now I will call you back soon."
Ace having heard what was said, grabbed his phone and quickly called Dusty. "Hey partner, can you and JR Carl get a team together and out to Andrews in under ten minutes?" Ace asked.
"You're joking right?" Dusty responded.
"I wish I was, if you can't then I will call the base commander and have a team standing by when the Vice Presidents plane lands."
"You will have to do that, and that will give me time to get the team out there. May I ask why we are going?"
"Yes, I want you to bring Jamie Marshall to the White House." Ace answered while looking at Ben who just nodded his head.
"Sure, but the director is going to chew some ones butt for this."
"I'll take the heat. I have a feeling Dusty, and it isn't good."
Ace had hung up and left the President's office and was walking towards the service office when Bennie and Johnny Hawks showed up. "Hey Ace, what's up?" Bennie asked as he gave Ace a hug.
"Not much, but I have a few things to do before I come up to the residence."
"Okay, then I will just start my homework."
"You do that, I shouldn't be too long. Johnny can you stay with him a bit longer?"
"Sure Ace, I can do that." Johnny answered.
"Thanks, I will try to be quick."
Twenty minutes later Ace made his way upstairs, making his way to the dining area, he grabbed a coffee and had just sat down when Bennie came in. "Ace, what is wrong?" Bennie asked with a frown.
"Just a hectic day, now I can relax for a while I hope."
"Well maybe a hot shower will help you." Bennie winked.
"Maybe, but?"
"But nothing Ace go have a hot shower and relax." Ben said as he walked into the dining area."
"Dusty will be back shortly sir and I would like to be ready when he gets here."
"Dusty can come up here, you know that, besides it will help your back."
"Sir?"
"I have seen how you have been favoring it all day, don't tell me it isn't bothering you." Ben said gently.
"Well, yes it has, but it is nothing."
"Then a hot shower won't hurt you. Now off you go."
"Okay I know when I am beaten." Ace said with a smile.
"Darn right you're beaten." Bennie laughed.
Naples:
With the boys in the house and Real and Morrison walking around the yard, Tony went into the kitchen where he found Donnie making a fresh pot of coffee. Sitting at the table, Tony lost himself in thought. He was still deep in his reminiscing when Donnie set a cup in front of him. "Tony are you okay?" Donnie asked.
"Sure, just thinking."
"Want to share what is bothering you?"
"Just something Aaron said on the bus. I want to take a look at the Marshall's home. Maybe I can get a lead on where Maurice is hiding or where Jamie might go."
"Tony that place had been gone over so many times, there won't be anything left to see."
"That could be, but I might see something the others have missed."
"Okay when do you want to go, and who will watch the boys?"
"You, Real, Morrison, don't forget we still have all those state troopers, so we have enough to watch."
"Think I think I will go with you, especially after what happened to Ian this morning. I don't think the director nor would a lot of others let me be, if something happened to you also."
"Okay, go tell Real and Morrison that we will be leaving for a couple hours."
Tony was about to walk into the front room when he heard Patrick yelling. "?So you have another boyfriend, you have been using me?." Patrick was mad as he spoke waving around a letter he held.
"Patrick I don't have another boyfriend, I swear to you, I know nothing about these letters and I sure don't know anyone one named J." Malcolm said calmly.
"Yeah right, well then how come he signs them yours forever?"
"I don't know." Malcolm said as he saw Tony standing there. "Tony can you check these out for me please?"
"Sure I can do that. I just came to tell you that Donnie and I are leaving for a couple hours. I will get onto them as soon as I get back. In the meantime Patrick you have to trust what Malcolm says." Tony said.
"Why should I, he's nothing but a two timer."
"You know deep inside Patrick that what you just said isn't true, remember I was there the day he asked you to be his."
"I know, but these?." Patrick started to say before breaking down and crying.
Across the city in a small three bedroom house, Walkerton sat with a brandy and his phone held to his ear. "Margaret listen I don't know where the kid got to, but his agent is in the hospital in serious condition." Walkerton stated.
"I know about his agent, heck everyone here does, as for the kid, well there is no way we can get to him now, he is with the President and his team. The thing you have to worry about is whether the kid will talk, you also have to worry about the Vice president, because he has ordered his ex-wife to Washington."
"Why?"
"That I plan on finding out, but if his ex was never too showed up, well then things would be better for you and for me."
"I see, well forget it, I am in enough hot water with Judge Graham I don't need more."
"Okay then I will take care of her."
"Why, she really can't hurt anyone."
"She gave birth to Jamie Marshall, gave him up just after she divorced her first husband."
"So what. The kid can't be allowed to testify. Once I get the Richardson's off they can finish Daniels once and for all. That is what you want?"
"Damn right it is, though I think my brother might have a better chance, he is getting closer to Daniels even as we speak."
"Whatever, just make Marshall disappear?"
"That will cost a lot more than I have."
"Who cares, you will have a hell of a lot more when things are over." Walkerton said just before hanging up."
In Washington Jamie was sound asleep in the Queens bedroom. Bennie had come in and covered him before walking into the dining area. "Ms. Gloria."
"Yes Bennie, what can I do for you?"
"Jamie is sleeping, do you think you could save some dinner for him, I really don't want to disturb him."
"I will save the young man a big dinner." Gloria said with a smile as she gave Bennie a hug.
While Jamie was sleeping and Bennie was finishing his homework, Ace took Dusty into the Treaty room and locked the door. "Dusty call Adam and see if he can do a video testimony, if so can you set up a plain room, nothing on the walls that would show anyone where Jamie is?" Ace asked.
"I will call, and we can use the interview room that is next to our office. We can also have an agent in the room with him, but out of sight."
"That will work and I will see if Judge Wheeler can be here to help protect Jamie's rights and make it fair to everyone."
"Good luck with that, though I am glad he is a friend."
"Well if I can't get David, then I can hope for Cal Matthews, either one would protect Jamie to the fullest."
Cal Matthews was just sitting down for dinner with his wife and son Carl when his cell phone played the minute waltz. Looking at his wife he just smiled as he opened the top. "Cal here how can I help you Ace?"
"Sorry to bother you at home sir, but I need a favor." Ace said when he heard Cal's voice
"God knows I owe you enough, what do you need?" Call asked.
"I was wondering if you were busy Wednesday and Thursday morning."
"No my days are clear, I would be just going over as few cases that are coming up. Why?"
"Well I have a young man here that has to testify. What we are doing is setting up a video feed so he can do it from here, but I want someone with him who could help him out and may be intervene when it is needed."
"Where is this trial happening that you need to use a video?"
"Naples Florida."
"Are you talking about the Richardson, Daniels and other cases?"
"Yes sir, the thing is the young man here is only to testify against the Richardson brothers."
"I see. Now I have one last question, why is the young man here in Washington?"
"Well Cal, that is a long story, and I don't think Judy wants to have your dinner going cold."
"You're very perceptive Ace, but it can be heated up."
"Well he is here because he ran, his bodyguard was shot, so Jamie ran, he got on board the VP's plane and flew here. Once the plane had landed a team of air police took Mr. Marshall into protective custody until the secret service could pick him up."
"Why isn't the young man in jail?"
"Because sir, the Vice President knew the young man, and when Jamie told him what had happened, the VP decided to give Jamie a chance, to either go to jail or stay with him, but once more things got chaotic when the President was informed. So now Jamie is staying here in the safest place we know of."
"You're right, okay I will represent the young man. What time should I be there?"
"Sir I have to talk with Adam, and see if we can get Jamie to be the first witness, and I expect that to be about ten o'clock. So if you could be here for nine thirty, that would give you a chance to talk with Jamie and help him relax."
"Okay then I will be there. And you can let the young man know he now has a lawyer."
"Thanks Cal, now I owe you."
"Get out of here, I can never pay you back for all you have done. Now I have to go before Judy has my head."
"Okay, and again thank you and I will see you Thursday. Have a good night."
"You too Ace and everyone here says hi."
"Hi to them also." Ace said as he hung up.
When Jamie woke Tuesday morning he was scared. As he lay in bed looking around the room, he remembered what it happened the day before. The morning had started out really well, Ian and Jamie had gone out for breakfast then went over to the courthouse.
Lunchtime came and Jamie still hadn't been called in the two decided to go out for lunch. That was when things went bad. Ian had been shot Jamie had run, during his run he had somehow managed to get onto the vice president's plane and had flown to Washington. It was only because the vice president knew Jamie was that he was in jail. When the plane landed at Andrew's airbase, and Jamie saw all the police that he became worried again. Sinclair had come up and told Jamie that he would be escorting the young man off the plane, and turning him over to the base military police, who had been ordered to hold him until some members of the Secret Service came to pick him up.
Jamie didn't know what was going to happen and had asked Sinclair if he knew, but all Sinclair could say was he had no idea, but to trust the people who picked him up. Jamie had been turned over the police officers and they in turn took him to their office, but instead of locking him up in a cell, they took him to their lounge and gave him some hot sandwiches and soda. Jamie had been sitting there watching the news and was happy to know that at least Ian was still alive.
Jamie had just put his stuff in the sink when Dusty and JR Carl walked through the door. Jamie could see behind the two and saw more man standing there. Dusty just smiled at Jamie. "Well young man are you ready to go?" Dusty asked.
"Go where?" Jamie asked as he stared at Dusty and the men with him.
"I thought you knew. Ace told me to bring you to the residence, he and the President are waiting for you."
"For me, why?"
"I am doing just what I'm asked, I'm not told everything." Dusty said with a laugh.
"Okay. Is there any way of finding out how Special Agent Stillwaters is doing, last I heard he was in surgery.
"We'll find out as soon as we get to the White House." Dusty promised.
Instead of the normal black, but the service normally used, Dusty had driven his charger and as Jamie and his protection came with the MPs office Carl Jr. started the car. With Jamie sandwiched between two men in the back seat it was crowded and Jamie could barely move. Dusty took the front passenger seat and after buckling up reached down and pulled up and M 14. "What the hell Sir, why do you need that?" Jamie asked in a terrified voice.
"I was told to protect you, the men with you have their weapons, and the men following armed also. I don't understand why you are so important, but orders are orders."
"If you say so."
After being shown to where he would be sleeping, Jamie laid down on the bed and that was all he remembered until he woke up a few minutes earlier. `Breakfast was Mexican omelettes with fresh squeezed orange juice and biscuits. As Jamie got to the table, Bennie and his dad were sitting there both quietly talking about the college and the amount of homework the Bennie had to do. Jamie had just been given a plate when ace walked in followed by Dusty and Ed Miller, the director of the Secret Service. "Good morning gentlemen, please help yourself to juice or coffee, but we finished our meal." Ben said as he took a bite of his omelette.
"Thank you Sir, but I've had enough for now." Ed said as he stood by the door.
For the next two days Jamie, JR Carl and dusty went over the red book that Maurice Marshall had left behind. During this time other agents had been setting up a blank room, putting in a video camera and a microphone. Cal Matthews had come over Wednesday and spent most of the day talking with Dusty and Jamie. Dusty true to his word had called the hospital Monday night as soon as he got back to his office. For Jamie knowing that he was going to be okay started to relax.
Margaret Jacobson had no reason to be at the White House, so getting to Jamie Marshall was impossible unless she could get to one of the staff. She needed Jamie unable to testify. Margaret was sitting in her cubicle and was thinking back to what had started the whole mess with Daniels, the Richardson's, and Martins.
During high school Margaret was no angel and she knew that. She looked pretty and all the boys flocked around her that is all but Marcus Daniels, the one boy she wanted the most. To her Marcus was the epitome of everything. He was smart, handsome, and always smiling. Marcus was also strong, and stood his ground, however he never noticed her and that made her mad. So with the help of a few friends she devised a plan to get Marcus.
With a week before College started Margaret and her little band of friends decided to throw a summer beach party and she invited everyone including Marcus. Her plan was to get Marcus drunk then use him. When Marcus got the invitation however, he quickly called her and apologizing said that he couldn't make it as he had other plans that were more important.
You could have heard Margaret screaming a world away when she was told. Her anger and rage for the Daniels family grew with each passing day. Then when her best friend Elizabeth married Richard Daniels that just added fuel. Now Marcus was dead and everything Margaret wanted was out of her hands. The money, prestige, and fancy homes, but not for long. Margaret Martin ended up getting married to her high school prom date, but that only lasted a few short years before he suddenly died in a car accident, the cause never found. After Martin, she married a police officer named Jacobsen who had been the one investigating the crash. Both men had substantial insurance policies and Margaret had taken out others on them both, but still she wasn't satisfied. She wanted the Daniels money and she was going to get it.
With her father dead and her Brother Jordan on the run from the police, while still hunting Malcolm, Margaret knew she was getting close to her dreams. She had instilled into her brother her hatred for anything that had to do with the Daniels family, so when Jordan called her and asked why the secret service was protecting the family Margaret started looking.
She was still reminiscing when her phoned jarred her back. Answering it she was just a little surprised to hear Jordan's voice. "Sis when is the President coming to Naples. I mean they're rumors floating around that he is coming?" Jordan asked.
"I think it is in two weeks, I have a notice here on my desk, let me see. Yes two weeks, he is supposed to be making a few announcements in front of the high school there."
"Great, will you be with him?"
"No, I am not part of his team yet."
"Good, then I would be watching the news on the day he visits."
Hanging up Margaret forgot all about Jamie and the Richardson brothers. "Let them fry." She thought to herself.
Eleven hundred miles south the Collier county courthouse was festooned with reporter and people wanting to get in to see the Richardson trial. People were lined up around half the block.
At five minutes to ten Dylan Master and Walkerton walked in and sat at their tables. A huge T.V screen had been set up the night before and was no on showing a bare table and chair. Dylan was going through his papers when Liza walked in and handed him the Confession of Brady Martin's. "You will have to ask if it is allowed, but both Sam and I talked with the Doctor and nurse that wrote this out for Martin and they both say that he asked them to do it, knowing full well that it might not be included." Liza stated with a shrug.
"I can't see why it won't be allowed, though I might have to call the people in to testify about its authenticity." Dylan said as he read the papers.
"They understand that sir, I did inform the nurse to those exact words."
"Great, did you make any copies?" Dylan asked.
"Yes, I figured it would be needed, I even had the police department's lawyer notarize them."
"That is great thinking, can you give one to Mr. Walkerton please, I don't want this to be a surprise to him."
"Sir, he already knows we have the confession, though not the contents. I will give him a copy and hope he takes the time to read it before he does or says anything."
"You're asking a lot there Ms. Patterson."
"I know, but I can hope, can't I, Have you heard anything on Jamie Marshall. You do know we want to ask him some questions?"
"Yes I know you do, as for where he is, let's just say he is safe."
"You aren't going to tell me are you?"
"For his safety, no I am not, let us say that he is in one of the safest places we have." Dylan whispered.
Adam was running late thanks to the crowd around the courthouse. Once n his chambers Adam changed only to split the seam of his trousers. Cursing to himself he quickly changed and headed to the courtroom. He heard the bailiff announce him as he opened the door. Finally seat, Adam looked out over the room, and not being in a great mood ordered that the court room be sealed, and that no one but those with business with that court room were to be allowed in. "Alright now let's get this started." Adam ordered.
"Your honor." Dylan started. "Before we begin, I ask that the court allow into evidence the deathbed confession of one Brady Martin."
"Let me see it." Adam ordered.
"Yes sir."
Handing the papers to Adam, Dylan sat back and waited. He didn't have long before Walkerton stood. "Your honor we ask that this confession not be allowed as we have not had time to read it or to verify that it is truly authentic."
"Your honor." Dylan stood. "Mr. Walkerton was given the confession at the same time I was, I have had a chance to read it, and I cannot see why he didn't take the time also." Dylan argued.
"Your honor, this came to me not more than five minutes ago, so I cannot believe that the DA expects me to read it in that time."
"Sir, Mr. Walkerton here isn't being honest with himself or the courts, Lt. Patterson gave him his copy right after she gave me mine and that sir was more than twenty minutes ago."
"Mr. Walkerton, in the time it has taken you both to argue this confession I have had a chance to quickly scan it. The lawyer that has notarized this works for the Naples police, he also was in college a year before I graduated. I know this gentleman and so therefore I am ruling in favor of allowing it as evidence." Adam spoke with a firm voice. "Now Mr. Masters do you have your witnesses available?"
"I have young Mr. Marshall available sir, though it is only by video feed."
"I see, Mr. Walkerton are you agreeable to this witness's testimony by video?" Adam asked.
"No sir I am not, however I was informed that this was going to happen and that there was nothing I could do about it."
"Then let's begin. Mr. Master please call your witness."
Jamie had been standing in the room that Dusty and his team had set up and had heard everything that was said. He was just about to sit when he saw the bailiff walk in to the camera lens. Freezing Jamie gasped and started shaking. Cal Matthews who was standing beside Jamie saw this and quickly traded spots while waving to the agent outside the door. "Mr. Masters this is Cal Matthews Lawyer for Mr. Marshall, I would like to ask for a few minutes." Call spoke through the Microphone.
"Mr. Matthews, is there a problem?" Adam asked.
"I am not sure sir."
"You have five minutes Mr. Matthews."
"Thank you sir."
Out in the hall way Jamie was leaning against the wall, his face pale and his hands trembling. "Jamie?' Cal called out. "What is it?"
"That man that was in the camera, the bailiff I think he was, he is the one that shot Ian."
"Are you sure?" Dusty asked as he walked up.
"I'll never forget his face." Jamie snapped.
"Take it easy Jamie, I am on your side." Dusty whispered. "And so is Mr. Matthews here."
"I know and I am sorry."
"Jamie, we have to go back in there and get this over with, but I promise you this, as you testify, Agent Moore here will call the courthouse and have that man arrested, but understand this son, right now it is your word against his." Cal spoke softly.
"What about Agent Stillwaters' word, that has to mean something?" Jamie asked as he was led back into the room."
"It will son, but for now let's deal with this first."
"Sure, I want it over with badly."
Adam was still behind the bench when Jamie and Cal sat down at the table. "Your honor, I am sorry for the delay. We are ready now." Cal spoke up.
"Very well Mr. Matthew. Mr. Masters you may begin." Adam stated as he stared at the T.V.
"Thank you, your honor. Mr. Marshall, please state for the record your full name and where you live." Dylan asked.
"My name is Jamie William Marshall and I live in Naples Florida." Jamie answered.
"Now Jamie, I can call you Jamie can't I?" Dylan asked.
"Yes sir."
"Thank you, now Jamie do you know why you are here?"
"Yes sir, it is because of what I found in a book that belonged to my foster dad."
"Can you tell the court what was in the book?"
"Names and figures."
"Do you know what those figures were?"
"Yes sir, they were payments made to everyone."
"Did those payments include the Richardson brothers?"
"Yes sir along with other members of the school board and a few police officers."
"Were there any other names mentioned?"
"Yes, there was a Jordan Martin and Darrin Martin his dad."
"Can you remember any other names in the book?" Dylan asked hopefully."
"No, but there were some initials."
"Can you recall what they were?"
"Yes sir, I can because they looked weird. They were MMJ."
"Thank you Jamie, no further questions your honor."
"Mr. Walkerton, do you wish to cross examine?" Adam asked.
"Yes sir I do." Walkerton stated belligerently.
"Very well proceed."
"Mr. Marshall, may I call you Jamie also?"
"No sir you may not." Jamie said with a firm voice.
Walkerton was shocked at Jamie's response, but quickly recovered. "Mr. Marshall, did you not steal that book from your foster dad, because he had grounded you?"
"No sir."
"Then how did you come to be in possession of it?"
"I found it in his office after he took off and left me on my own."
"You mean when he went to work?"
"No sir I mean what I said he took off."
"Jamie you stole that book admit it." Walkerton yelled.
"Objection your honor." Cal hollered. "Mr. Walkerton has no right to make such an accusation."
"I agree, Mr. Walkerton watch what you say." Adam ordered.
"Yes sir. Mr. Marshall you really didn't see those names in any book did you?"
"Sir, are you calling me a liar?" Jamie asked angrily.
"No, I don't think you are remembering things correctly, how much of that book did you actually look at Mr. Marshall?"
"I looked at half of it, and I remember it all, that is because I have a photographic memory."
"So you remember everything?"
"Pretty much."
"Did you tell the court all the names he saw in the book?"
"No."
"How many did you forget?"
"None, I just didn't mention one name, but you already knew that."
"Is that because it was your name?" Walkerton snapped.
"No sir, it was yours, but like I said you already knew that, you are Marcus Daniels lawyer when he first started his business, but he fired you because you were creating accounts and billing him for things he didn't know about. He caught you at it, but instead of charging you, he fired you. Now you and your friends want to steal it from Malcolm."
"You don't know what you're talking about."
"Don't I, let me see you prove me wrong then?"
"No more questions your honor." Walkerton snarled.
"Mr. Masters, you care to redirect? (Redress) Adam asked.
"Yes Sir, I have a few more questions." Dylan stated before standing.
"Jamie, is what you told the court the truth?" Dylan asked.
"Every word of it." Jamie answered.
"Then to appease the court, could you tell us the third name on page 4 and the amount paid?" Dylan asked.
"Oh geez, here I thought you wanted something hard." Jamie laughed before answering. "Eric Richardson, the amount paid 5.7 5 million that was dated 5 April 2009."
"Thank you. Your Honor let the records show that Mr. Marshall has spoken the truth and the name he stated is in fact the third name on page 4." Dylan stated.
"Very well Mr. Masters, continue." Adam stated with a smile.
Dylan was going to say more when the court clerks phone ring startling everybody. The clerk had just handed the phone to the judge when the doors were opened and four FBI agents walked in. "Your Honor I am sorry for interrupting the court, but we have a warrant to arrest the bailiff on two counts of attempted murder and two counts of conspiracy to commit murder." Agent Liam Watson said as he walked towards the front of the room.
"I see, but could this not wait?" Adam asked.
"Sir, I was ordered to do this now. I am thinking that the call you just took came from the director of the Secret Service." Liam stated.
"Actually came from Rich Mason, who is special agent in charge of the President's team."
"Things do go high in this case, don't they?" Liam said with a smile.
After the bailiff was taken away in a replacement had been brought in the court continued. "Mr. Masters you have any more questions?" Adam asked in a harsh tone.
"No Your Honor, I am finished." Dylan said as he sat back down.
"Mr. Walkerton?"
"No, I have nothing further for this witness."
"Very well, then Mr. Marshall you are free to leave. Mr. Masters, you have any other witnesses?" Adam asked.
"No Your Honor, my other witness is still in the hospital. All I have left is to reading of the Brady Martin confession." Dylan stated.
"Okay, let's do that then we can break for lunch." Adam stated with a grin as he thought of the large steak that would be waiting for him
"Your honor, I would like to make it clear to the courts that we have just received this statement from the police. I have read it and I know you are going to ask why was it just given to us now. Well your honor the police have had it for the last three weeks and they assured me that they wanted to make sure that the statement was real and given to the Doctor and nurse freely." Dylan stated.
"Your honor I find this totally reprehensible, if the police had it they should have turned it over to the DA's office immediately." Walkerton responded angrily.
"Mr. Walkerton, please refrain from any further outbursts. Mr. Masters, what about what Mr. Walkerton says." Judge Graham asked.
"Your honor they could have turned it over, but as I stated for the record, they wanted to be sure before doing anything. It is my understanding that Officers Johnson and Patterson went and spoke with the doctor and nurse who witnessed this statement. I also understand that they spoke with the hospital's lawyer in regard to this, since she was the one that notarized it."
"Very well, then please read it for the records." Judge Graham spoke.
"Yes sir."
"This statement I Brady Martin do give freely, without any promises or threats, there has been no coercion. I have asked that Doctor Newbaum and his Ms. Eisterman be present and to take down what I say as I no longer have use of my right arm or hand." Dylan started only to be interrupted by Walkerton.
"Your honor I ask that these two people be subpoenaed so that I can verify this statement with them." Walkerton asked.
"Mr. Walkerton, if you want to subpoena these two people then you are free to do so. However I am not going to adjourn these proceedings just because you are not happy." Adam snapped.
"Very well, your honor I ask that we adjourn until after lunch, so that I can have these people brought here."
"Your honor." Dylan interrupted. "Mr. Walkerton is just using delaying tactics because he knows that he has no defence for this statement."
"I agree, however we will break for lunch and continue the reading after. Mr. Walkerton that gives you ninety minutes to get these people here if you still wish to do so."
"Thank you your honor and I do wish it." Walkerton sighed.
Knowing that with the statement and the testimony from Jamie Marshall had sunk his clients, Walkerton waited until Dylan had left before turning to the Richardson brothers. "Gentlemen, there isn't a hope that we can win this case, not after everything we have heard this morning. Then there is this statement, Guys your best hope right now is to change your plea to guilty and beg for leniency." Walkerton stated.
"If we go down so do you." Eric snarled.
"Like I am not already sunk, that kids did a great job in putting me right in the middle of this mess. I know that neither Judge Graham, nor Master is going to forget what he said, either on will call for an investigation and I will be joining you unless I get out of the country."
"Then I guess we will be seeing you in the big house." Eric laughed.
Susan's flight to Washington was a pain, the U.S marshals that were escorting her had kept to themselves, not answering any of her questions. So sitting back Susan just read the magazines that were provided or stared out the small window. Landing in Washington, the marshals led her to a small grey town car, the windows tinted black and the seat a plush velour. The driver had the door open for her as she stepped up and took her seat. The driver was just closing the door when he saw Susan flinch and fall forward, seconds later came the echo of a gunshot.
Making sure that Susan was still alive, the driver slammed the door and raced to his seat behind the wheel. That was when he saw the woman walking towards him, the pistol she carried pointed right at his window. Grabbing the shifter, the driver dropped it into drive and slam his foot onto the gas pedal.
Free of the threat the woman posed, the driver sped down the highway, his cell phone at his ear as he called first for the police then the hospital to let them know he has a gunshot victim and was coming in. That the woman was in her earlier 50's and was the ex-wife of the vice president. After making the first two calls the driver then called his boss.