End Chapter 23

     It was around 3:27 in the a.m. when Charles and Bengiman found themselves outside of Oscar del Diego's high-rise condominiums, in the Porto district of the city, all was quiet, the streets deserted on this particular Wednesday morning, on that warm, dark cloudy night. Charles was feeling absolutely wretched, his heart raced, the palms of his hands sweaty, his mouth dry, he tried to concentrate on his breathing, taking in calm, slow breaths, exhaling slowly as the nervous tension began to boil up in his stomach like caustic soda. He had tried to ease the strain on his mind, and body, by listening to a little Segovia on the drive over to the next victim, but the soothing sound of the classical guitar was not enough to elevate his trepidation. Charles stood outside of the buildings entrance as he clutched his doctor's bag tightly to his chest, Bengiman paused for a moment sitting on a long bench outside on the side walk, finishing off a cigarette. Charles turned to tell him to hurry up, when he noticed a man step off the elevator inside the lobby of the building, he was dressed in a pair of grey silk pajamas, slippers, walking a tiny, black dog, a miniature Doberman Pincer, who needed to go for a walk in the worst way. Charles looked up at the man who was approaching the glass doors at the main entrance, Charles was shocked and he called over to Bengiman "Hey, fucker look! It's Oscar." Charles exclaimed as he stepped back over behind Bengiman.
    Oscar was half-asleep, not really paying attention, as he exited his building, it was not until he took two steps forward when he glanced up at the tall, broad shouldered man, with a cleanly shaven head, standing next to the bench. "Olla." Oscar gave a quick hello and a brief friendly smile, then he paused as his little dog took a piss on a nearby tree, then Oscar turned, looking back at the stranger, who looked very familiar to him. "Ah!" Oscar said turning back to the giant of a man "I recognize you!"
     "No ya don't." Bengiman said as he stepped forward, revealing another man Oscar did not know, or recognize.
     Suddenly the small dog began to bark, a barely audible noise, as this was a quiet breed, Oscar became extremely unnerved at the sight of this unknown man, slowly he turned, inch by inch, he tried to make it back to the front door. Alas, poor Oscar was forced, at gun point, to take a walk back to Bengiman's vehicle, where they would now have to do away with him. This was even better, as it kept them out of the building, and they could drive away and end Oscar's life, in peace, at another location in the city. As they guided the doomed away from his home; which he would never see again, Oscar pleaded with them to let him bring his little dog with him, but Bengiman, along with the tall, blue-eyed, wicked looking man, would not hear of it, instead Charles tied the dog up to the bench out front so it would not run away, and hopefully find a new owner. Now as Charles did this quickly, and as he walked away, he looked back at the tiny, frightened animal, who sat there trembling, her little body shaking in fear, fiercely, softly barking, watching his master being led away, never to be seen, alive, again. Now this scene was very troubling to our murderous Charles who suddenly realized he actually cared more about the welfare of the dog than the life of the human being he, and Bengiman, had just abducted and would, in a few moments.., kill.
     Oscar could not understand what was happening, but he knew very well the man holding the gun to his back was Xation Day's personal head of security, he had seen him many times in the building and in the executive dining room. Oscar remained silent, that is until they had him strapped in passenger's seat, with Bengiman sitting directly behind, his nickle-plated semi-automatic handgun aimed at the back of Oscar's skull the entire time, even with Bengiman shouting at Oscar to, 'shut the fuck up',  Oscar could not help but beg and plead, and cry for them to spare his life. All his words went unheeded as Charles drove the trio off down the dark deserted streets out to one of the nearby parks, where Charles found a nice secluded parking lot next to a grove of oak trees.
     "Oscar." Charles said as he turned off the engine, unbuckling his seat belt while his victim began to hyperventilate through his mournful tears, acting like a coward. "You need to stop." Charles said as he slid out from behind the steering wheel retrieving his doctors bag from the back seat. Oscar began shaking uncontrollably, tears streaming from his eyes, snot dripping from his nose as he watched the blond, blue-eyed man open up the little black bag and take out a long syringe, the needle of which was at least four inches long. At the sight of him filling up the syringe from a small vile of clear liquid, Oscar felt faint and thought surely he would vomit.
     Carefully, with great caution, Charles placed the empty bottle back in his bag, focusing his attention while handling the deadly drug, Narcan {an opioid antagonist, given to people who have overdosed, or are in septic shock} this powerful cardiac stimulant should never be injected to a healthy heart, that IS NOT in cardiac arrest, unless you want to kill them. Unfortunately for Oscar these men wanted, very much, to kill him, and he knew this could only be about all the missing funds he had uncovered at his company, and it was right about now Oscar was starting to regret the meeting he called with the C.E.O., Xation Day and V.P. of the company, Jerome Hays, whom he had worked so hard for the last six years. Yet there was nothing he cold say, or anything he could do, to make these killers let him go and spare him his life on this warm summer's eve.
     So it came to pass, Bengiman, holstering his weapon, pulled Oscar out of the passenger's seat; which Oscar had urinated on in his sheer terror, Bengiman ordered the sniveling coward down on his knees in front of the Range Rover. Charles held the long sharp needle up in his hand as he watched Bengiman slip off his tie, telling the horrified man "Put your hands behind your back." Oscar felt a wave of panic overwhelm him, the desperate urge to runaway, far out into the woods, arose  up in his heart like a herd of wild mustangs, but a still voice, inside his head, said not to do so. Oscar knelt on the hard pavement, his eyes closed, head down, hands bound behind his back, a prayer on his lips, as he tried to take a breath and face death, for Oscar wanted to be calm during his last moments, alive, on Earth.., though he was not looking forward to forever. "There, that's better." Bengiman whispered, securing their victim, then he added "I'm proud of ya' Oscar! I'd hate to see ya' carrying on like little girl, your last moments here with us, alreet?"
     Oscar opened his eyes looking up at the Englishman, he was thinking of what last words he might say, but as Oscar's mind raced, not one word came. "Oscar." Charles called his name softly as he stood in front of him telling him "Now I need you to stick out your chest while my mate holds your shoulders, take a deep breath, because this is going to hurt.., a lot" Oscar stared in shock and silence as he gazed at the long, sharpened needle, taking in a deep breath, then he gave up hope as he closed his eyes. Charles knelt down before his victim, unbuttoning his pajamas, exposing the middle-aged man's hairy, flabby chest. "Okay, good, your doing fine Oscar, I am glad you decided to cooperate, and I will go back and get your dog." Charles lied "What's it's name?"
     Oscar stared in wide-eyed disbelief at his killers words, then he said with a little note of gladness in is voice "Josephine." as the name passed Oscar's lips Charles took the needle and plunged it deep into his chest, penetrating the subcutaneous layer of skin, all the way, deep down, with great pain and force, piercing the pericardium, stopping in the right ventricle, as the rush of clear substance came from the needle, the pain was excruciating and intense burning in Oscar's poor heart like fire. Oscar collapsed forward as Charles got up quickly watching as Oscar began twitching, in full seizure, a strange gasping coming from his lungs, as his breathing ceased, his heart beginning to beat spasmodically, cardiac arrest just seconds away, but before the ill-fated man's heart finally short circuited out, Oscar fell quickly into an abrupt coma, as his eyes rolled into the back of his head. It took about three minutes of violent shaking, his body in full musculature spasms, then, as the moon came through the dark clouds, Oscar became as still as the night. Charles went over to the body, checking for any vital signs, there were none, for the copious amount of Narcan did the trick, the matter was over and done, it was finished.
     "Josephine..," Bengiman said as he stood there smoking another cigarette gazing down at the ground "I once knew a girl named Josephine, briefly.., she liked to be called Joey."
     Charles just stood there for a moment giving Bengiman a strange look, then he cleared his throat and said "Alright, let's drive him back home, sit him up on that bench.., with his little dog, Josephine." Charles informed Bengiman as he placed the needle back in his bag, making sure to replace the plastic orange safety cap back on the four inch long needle. "It will look like he took his dog for a walk, sat down, where he, unexpectedly, had a massive heart attack..,problem solved."
     "Good idea.., let me toss him in the back." Bengiman said as he stubbed out his cigarette on the ground, next to the freshly deceased body.
     Charles opened up the passenger side door and the aroma of ammonia was pungent "God Damn it!" Charles shouted as Bengiman scooped up Oscar's body.
     "What's occurring?" Bengiman said having a little difficulty with the dead weight.
     "Fucking Oscar! He pissed all over the seat!"
    
  
    

Chapter 23 cont's...

     Once that you have decided on a killing, first you make a stone of your heart, and as each minute brought Charles closer to the appointed hour he felt all emotion, sympathy, mercy and pity drain away from him as he prepared his mind, summoning up the courage from his hardened heart to complete the tasks at hand. Bengiman remained silent most of the time; which was unusual, as Mr. Bengiman Pruce loved the sound of his own voice, loving nothing more than telling his little anecdotes. Charles was glad for the silence as Bengiman drove him back down from the estate, just after mid-night, as they made their way south towards the city for the second time that day. However, earlier, when they drove off that afternoon, they had no idea why they had been summoned by Xation to the town villa, but now Charles and Bengiman had finally found out the reason, and could come up with no excuse to say no to Xation and his deadly demands. Bengiman did not have a good feeling about this whole scenario, but it was not he who would be doing the actual killing, it was only his assistance that was merely required. Charles would be the one with his deeds weighing upon his conscience for the rest of his life.
     "Well at least the money will help." Bengiman said as they neared the city in his British-racing-green, Range-Rover.
     "What's that supposed to mean?" Charles asked giving Bengiman a disdainful look.
     "You know.., help ease the old conscience." he said with a cheerless expression.
     Here Charles only laughed woefully saying "The only thing that could ever ease my conscience is a bullet in the head!" he smirked then added "Now don't get any ideas Mr.Pruce."
     Bengiman gave Charles a serious look telling him "No, if anything happened to you, by my hands, Felina would have me trampled under the hooves of her horses and throw my body in the Rio Negro!" here he laughed.
     "Fuck off! She would not!" Charles balked.
     "Oh.., you have no idea Charlie.., remember, you saved her life, you are her 'Great American Hero'! Believe it or not." Bengiman said in all seriousness, for Felina had warned Bengiman along time ago not to harm, or hurt, Charles in any way. For well she knew of Bengiman's extreme jealousy and his terrible rants that could bring the walls and the roof down, so Felina made Bengiman give her his word, and you do not cross Felina, everyone knew to keep their promises to that lady.
    "Shut up and drive. I need to concentrate, focus my mind." Charles reminded him as the two neared the residence of Mr. Jorge Reynosa. It was a small white stucco, mission style, two bedroom home on the outskirts of town, where, up until a few months ago, he had lived there for twenty years with his wife. Now she had up and abandoned him, due to his alcohol and verbal abuse. Old Jorge was going through a bitter divorce, his wife had gone, his kids were all grown, and now he spent all his days working, and nights alone, left only in the company of his 18 lb, fat, orange striped Tabby cat he called 'Ginger Bear'.
     Now Ginger Bear was curled up in bed next to his human, who was peacefully sleeping off a bottle of Anejo, it was a little after 2:15 in the a.m. all was still in the house, the only sound coming from the clock on the mantle above the fireplace, softly, rhythmically, ticking off the seconds. Bengiman and Charles had parked down the quiet suburban street, going down the alley in the dark of night, the moon obscured by a thick blanket of clouds which had rolled in off the ocean. As a strong wind began to blow, the leaves rustled over head as the tree limbs creaked under the force of the breeze, the sound of dogs barking could be heard from far off in the distance. With out a word or a sound Bengiman unlatched the back gate and within three seconds they found themselves standing in Mr.Reynosa's little garden, which had all gone to seed, as Mr. Reynosa's wife had not only abandoned her husband, but the property as well.
     "Here we go." Bengiman whispered in a voice as tense as wire. Bengiman stepped up to the sliding glass door of the darkened home, using a few of his small tools to pick the lock; which is how he had made his living in London many, many years ago, and this profession is what caused him all his trouble, stress and grief in his life. Now he had not needed to do this in a long time, only occasionally would he break into his girlfriend's house to snoop around or spy on her, but this was an entirely different matter, for when he left this residence there would, most defiantly, be a dead body left behind. "There you are." Bengiman said having no trouble at all getting open the locked door. Slowly he slid the glass door all the way open, before he stepped in Bengiman withdrew his pistol from his shoulder holster underneath his sport coat as Charles followed close behind.
     They could hear the ticking of the clock, which matched the beating of their hearts, as they entered the dimly lit living room, were there was a complete mess of discarded newspapers, half empty take-away Styrofoam containers, dozens of pizza boxes, empty beer cans and broken bottles of tequila and vodka on the trash covered counters in the kitchen, were the smell was pungent, a stomach turning, disgusting mess. So strong was the odor emanating from the kitchen it was like a punch in the face, smelling of rotten milk, mold and vomit. Bengiman and Charles were stunned by the state and condition of the house. "This is no way to live." he said in a voice barely audible, then Charles realized this man would not be living like this for very much longer. As he looked around the stinking mess, Charles knew, and understood, this man had to be deeply, emotionally disturbed to resided in this 'pig stye', and here Charles almost felt like killing this man would be doing him a favor, put him out of his misery.
     With this on his mind Charles clutched his doctors bag close to his chest as he and Bengiman slowly crept down the long dark corridor, the walls of which were covered with a massive array of family photographs from over the years, and now the pictures were old and faded, the frames covered in dust, some broken, looking as if the had been smashed by a hammer, a few were scattered along the carpet as if those moments in time never even mattered at all. It was a right depressing mess and Charles only wanted to hurry up and get this over with so he could get out of this sad, pathetic place, that once used to be a warm home filled with the light and love of a happy family. Charles and Bengiman could only wonder what had gone so terribly wrong in this man's life, but now was the time.., not to care.
     Ginger Bear picked up it's head at the sight of the two humans standing in the doorway and he gave no warning to Jorge, who was flat on his back snoring up a storm. Bengiman and Charles stood there for a moment by the light coming from the bathroom; which was in a filthier condition than the rest of the house. The smell was over powering and there were dirty clothes, porn magazines, more empty bottles of beer and Anejo strewn about the floor and bed. Jorge was lost in a dream he would never remember, then he awoke to the taste of cold steel in his mouth, and when he opened his eyes up, he saw two unknown intruders standing over his bed. "Hello, Jorge." Bengiman said with a grave look as he shoved the barrel of his pistol in the frightened man's mouth. "Feel that? That's my .357 magnum Python, and if you, so much, as move an inch, I will pull this trigger." Bengiman smiled a strange gleeful, murderous look coming over his face to Jorge's shock and horror. He just barely noticed the other man, a handsome, blue eyed-devil, who was slowly rolling up the sleeve of his robe. Now Jorge laid perfectly still, not knowing who either of these men were, but, due to the acrimonious divorce, and all the abuse his wife had suffered by the words of his mouth and the deeds of his hands, Jorge instantly convinced himself this was all her doing. Sure his wife had sent these men here to get rid of him, so she could get his house and his money, of course this was not the truth, but old Jorge did not know that.
     Charles knelt down beside the bed, looking for a nice fat vein to insert the hypodermic needle, as soon as he did a strange ringing came to his ears and Charles felt a strange pain underneath his right shoulder blade, his pulse quickened, he began to perspire and the room felt now like it was 100 degrees. Wiping the sweat off his forehead Charles told Jorge. "Mr. Reynosa.., I want you take in a deep breath, and count backwards from ten, then you will be feeling much better and you won't have to worry about anything, anymore, ever again. Okay?" Charles said softly, as if Jorge was just merely going to take a little nap. Charles motioned for Bengiman to remove the weapon from out of the doomed man's mouth.
     "Okay." Jorge said in a voice as small as a little child "Just tell my wife.., Margarita" he said softly without hesitation, or protestation, saying  "I have always loved her.., and I am so sorry for the way I treated her." Jorge said this all without fear or any fright in his voice, as if he were, bravely, welcoming this death and he actually seemed thankful.., this was something Charles would remember when it came his time to die.
     "I will." Charles lied, as he began the injection of 40 units of succinylcholine {a powerful neuro-muscular blocker} "Now all you have to do is count back from ten.., then all your suffering will come to an end." Charles reassured his victim
      Now Jorge did as he was instructed, half dead already form the alcohol and misery he had poisoned himself with, lo these many years, so the last seconds of Mr. Jorge Reynosa's life were counted down by him "ten, nine.., eight.., seve..."
     Bengiman stepped out of the room as Charles monitored Jorge's vital signs, and after about three minutes his pulse rate quickly dropped, his breathing became very laboured and shallow, followed by complete respiratory paralysis. Time of death, 2:27 a.m.
     "Come on, we have one more appointment to keep." Bengiman shouted from the hallway.
    
   

More Chapter 23

     "Well.., Xation" Charles asked standing to his feet as Xation re-entered the living room "What did Felina say?"
     "She has agreed to see you, however, Felina would rather go to the island of Bermuda instead." Xation relayed the information to an enthusiastic Charles, and Xation was feeling very contented in his troubled heart, after hearing the sound of his sister's voice, for he did miss Felina terribly over the last year.
     "What did you tell her?" Charles asked as he sat back down while Hays and Bengiman listened attentively.
     Here Xation set his mobile phone down on the coffee table, letting out a sigh, then gave a quick smile sitting next to Hays on the long sofa saying "Well.., I will tell you." Xation cleared his throat as a little tear began welling up in the coroner of his eye "I told her that I could forgive her for what she did to my wife and my unborn child, if she could forgive me for making her stay away from the family for so long." Xation wiped away the bittersweet teardrop off his cheek, then he continued "I told her I want to gradually introduce her to my son, and slowly bring her back into the family. Starting with a visit from you. I promised to send you on my jet to pick her up and fly you two to Bermuda for an all expenses paid, two week holiday at the finest hotel.., for this is her reward for her patience and forgiveness."
     Charles smiled, thrilled that his little plan to be with Felina again had come to fruition, in an excited voice Charles exclaimed "Oh, thank you Xation, I can not wait to see your sister!" ans by 'see' Charles meant 'fuck'.
     "Oi.., Charlie." Bengiman said, using the nick-name Charles most despised, "What about Miss Lexa?" he said giving Charles a knowing look, for he was delighted Charles would leave the sexy woman alone with him for two weeks at the estate. Now the fact that Charles was going to fuck around with Felina would have normally bothered him a great deal, however, during Bengiman's time in Spain with Xation's sister, he wound banging Felina each and every day. Contented with having slithered back into Felina's bed once more satisfied Bengiman's libido, and ego, so he thought he would let Charles have Felina back, for a little while at least.
     "What about Lexa?" Charles said a tinge of indignation in his voice. "We're not married, I can go fuck whomever I like." he retorted with the sure feeling Lexa, herself, was losing interest in Charles.
     "Oh aye..," Bengiman smiled saying to himself, 'and so can she!'.
     "Let's go ahead and move on with our next course of action in this matter." Hays said as he sensed Xation was growing more uncomfortable with the idea of Charles fucking his sister again.
     "Yes, let's move forward." Xation said as he took the file on the Mr. Jorge Reynosa and Oscar del Diego, opening it up Xation handed the men's photographs to Charles and Bengiman telling them "Now they both need to be gone by 5:00 a.m., before our server comes back on line and the computers reboot. {Hays had encoded a virus into the main frame shutting down the system before Oscar returned from lunch, postponing their embezzlement meeting for the next day, but there would be no tomorrow for Oscar or Mr.Reynosa} "Bengiman, here are the addresses." Xation turned and gave the two men a stern, severe look saying slowly, as if he were speaking to children, "Now listen.., this is very important.., Bengiman, your job is to get Charles in and out of their houses.., safely, without incident. Charles, you are not to let Bengiman become involved in any way! We do not want a bloody mess on our hands! This has to be nice and clean, no blood, no fingerprints, no D.N.A. evidence! Just a simple injection of something strong, and deadly, that the coroner can not trace in an autopsy."
Xation and Hays both shook their heads in agreement, and Bengiman vowed he would not start any trouble during their mission, but Charles said nothing, only sitting there with a death-dread stare, gazing down at the faces of the men, his victims. "Charles?" Xation said getting no response. "Charles.., are you with us?"
     "What's the matter Charles?" Bengiman said with a wry smile "Don't have the stomach for it?" Charles did not respond with either a word or a glance.
     Hays chimed in "Come on Charles, it can't be that difficult.., I mean how many lives were lost because of you in the operating room? Oh and we mustn't forget those other two." Hays gave him a wink, and when he said 'those other two' Hays received his full attention.
     "Two?" Bengiman said a little confused, for he knew about the knife, but no one had told him about the nine iron.
     "I thought that was supposed to be a secret.., Xation!?" Charles said a look of anger, rage and contempt welling up in his heart and mind as he stood standing in front of Xation glaring down at him in fury.
     "Charles, clam down." Xation said as he stood to his feet, eye to eye with Charles, who looked like his head was about to explode.
     "Oh I am calm Xation.., calm like a bomb!"
     "Relax, relax!" Hays said as he too stood to his feet putting his hand on the irate man's shoulder "Charles, Xation had to tell me, we need to know everything about you for our file."
     "Charles we did not know if you would cooperate so we needed to have as much evidence to hold over your head as we could, that's the only reason I told him about the attack in Hawaii." Xation said giving Charles a sincere look of apology.
     "I knew it! I knew something happened on your trip! You fuckers lied to me!" Bengiman said absolutely gob-smacked Xation had kept the truth from him and he was so pissed of no one would tell him what actually happened.
     "Bengiman, never mind, now don't you get all riled up! We have a very serious matter to discuss and I need you both to be professional!" Xation said and then added "Or you won't get paid." Both men shut up and calmed down, sitting themselves back on the sofa, as Hays placed two small black leather satchels on the coffee table, the one for Charles contained $250,000, the one for Bengiman contained only $150,000.
"Now take this, follow your instructions and call me when it is finished." Xation said as he noticed Charles had gone quiet, staring off into space. "Charles, is something on your mind? Out with it.., what is it?"
     "I just have something to say.., to you Hays!" Charles said glaring over at Hays with a look as if to say 'I would be happy to skin you alive and cut you into tiny pieces' "I just want you to know and be aware of this.., Medicine is an EXACT science! And I did not always get the dosages for my patients EXACTLY right, but for the 8 I lost, hundreds made it through their operations with flying colors!" Charles said a thick vein on the side of his neck engorged with every pulsation of blood as he yelled "So just be sure to put that in your fucking file!" Charles said then he took in a deep, calming breath, as he slowly exhaled he stood, straightened his jacket and tie, placed his victim's file in the satchel with the money, then Charles went over shaking Xation's hand, saying "I will take care of this for you boss.., but when this over NO ONE is allowed to, ever, discuss this matter, and what happens tonight, with me.., do I make myself clear?"
     "After  tonight, we will all pretend that it NEVER happened! Comprende?" Xation said giving out the order of silence. All four men agreed and were united in their cause to put an end to the lives of the two men who could destroy Xation's reputation, fortune, and company. Even though these good men were only doing the job Xation hired them to do, this no longer mattered for the terrible secret had been uncovered and the discovery would cost both of Xation's employees their very lives. Murder most horrid, for the darkness that awaited them would be sweeping over the city soon. Tonight the Angel of Death would take flight and neither Oscar, nor Jorge, would make it to see the dawn's early light.
    
    

Chapter 23 continues

     Charles and Bengiman sat on the sofa in the town villa after driving the past hour down to Buenos Aires at Xation's insistance. Charles was extremely nervous, it was almost 5 o'clock and both men found themselves on edge. Charles stood, pacing back and forth in the living room, wondering why on earth he had been summoned down to the city. When Hays and Xation entered, in poor spirits, Charles soon had his answer. "I am glad you both could come down here to meet with Hays and myself." Xation said as he shook both men's hands.
     "What's this all about then?" Bengiman asked giving Xation a disapproving look.
     "Come.., sit." Xation said to Charles, who did not sit back on the sofa as this was where he first had sex with Felina, so Charles chose to sit, instead, over in a chair by the fireplace; which on this hot, late Spring day, in January, was cold, going unused. "Now.., this situation, that has arisen, requires, immediate, drastic measures to correct.., and keep my company intact." Xation explained in brief detail what was occurring "And the solution to my problem lies in your hands., so I have brought you both here today.., for I am in need of your help."
    Charles and Bengiman gave each other a concerned look as Hays sat on the sofa next to Bengiman going through a file in his briefcase as Charles asked Xation "What do you need us to do?" even as the words came over his lips Charles had a very bad feeling about this.
    So it was Xation explained the situation, in great detail, to both of them and when Charles realized Xation wanted him to virtually go and execute these two men, he was shocked into a temporary silence. After a moment, as many thoughts raced through his mind as he sat there, Charles stopped Hays and Xation mid-sentence and said "I am sorry..," Charles shook his head "I have become confused.., I thought we were friends."
     "Friendship has NOTHING to do with this!" Hays retorted.
      Xation gave Charles a concerned look telling him "Charles.., you are my friend., that is why I am coming to you! I need your help."
     "And what if I refuse and say.., no." Charles replied as Bengiman only rolled his eyes.
     Xation gave Hays a look as cold as the grave, then he sighed rubbed his temples as Hays stood, crossed the room, handing Charles the file, though Charles took it in his hand, he did not look at it, nor did he acknowledge the file, or Hays in any way. For Charles had seen all this before, and knew all the information contained within, though he did not know the reward for his capture and return to America had gone up to $500,000. Though this fact would not have impressed him. Then Hays looked down at Charles who quietly sat there, many thoughts racing through his mind as Hays said "Listen.., if you want to be any kind of a friend to Xation.., then you will do this, to help him protect his business." Hays let out a deep a sigh then gave Charles a slap on the shoulder saying "Or.., we can send you back to the States.., where you will most definitely end up in prison, just like your old friend Azir." Charles maintained his composure, but if he were less of a man he would have punched Hays in the face, and knocked a few of his perfect white teeth out of his mouth just for mentioning the name of his compadre in crime, but under the circumstance Charles said nothing, only sitting there quietly seething, Bengiman too sat there in silence watching the scene play out before him as Hays continued "After all the lives you've destroyed, Charles, what's a few more."
     This comment was just too much for Charles to take, he wanted, so bad, to stand up and knock Hays down to his knees, but Charles, maintained his composure as he looked up at Hays, all his words filled with venom and rage, as he explained "First of all.., medicine is an EXACT science.., and I, unfortunately, have not always been exactly right in my treatment and dosage of patients.., Hays.., Though I can tell you all, with out question, I may have lost eight of my patients, but out of those tragic cases, I have helped hundreds of people in the course of my duties as a trusted physician." Charles stated with great acuity as he sat up a little straighter in his chair, telling them, while he glared at Xation for this most unwelcome indignation of his professional character. "As for the last two.., that was NOT my fault,  those killings.., I only committed to protect Felina, as well as you.., Xation."
     "What..?" Bengiman said wondering what other person Charles was referring to, he was well aware of the knife but he had no knowledge of the nine iron, still not knowing about the attack on Maui the previous year. " Two.., what's he on about?" Bengiman said giving Xation an uncertain look.
     "Never mind." Xation said brushing off his question as he realized this was going to be more difficult than he imagined.
     "So this is what you want to do.., Xation, give me no choice but to help you.., or you would turn me in, send me back to prison?" Charles said the light of fury in his eyes igniting, like gasoline over fire.
     "No!" Xation exclaimed, stating "This is not what I want to do.., not at all.., but this is what I NEED to do, and you will help me, or I will be forced to destroy you." Xation said and when he spoke the words 'destroy you' the look in Xaton's dark eyes was as cruel and fierce as a servant of Satan himself, Charles could feel the flickering flames of hell engulfing his agonized heart and he knew there was no turning back. There would be no escape for Charles, nor his newly appointed victims. "So what do you say?"
      Charles remained silent, bowed his head, closed his eyes, as if in silent prayer, he was ruminating on how he could possibly work this situation to his advantage. So, as Hays and Xation, as well as Bengiman, waited on bated breath, Charles looked up as the feeling rushed that he was low indeed, full of despair, wishing he were dead he finally spoke and said "Fine.., I will take care of this matter.., however, I only have one condition."
     "Anything.., thank you Charles, I will gladly compensate you, anything you want!" Xation said elated as he stood going over to shake hands with Charles, who sat there motionless.
     "Oh Xation, you think it will be that easy?" Charles laughed then he looked up at Xation as he stood to his feet coming eye to eye with his 'friend' telling him "I want you to call your sister Felina.., I want to be with her again."
     The look on Xation's face went from jubilation to frustration as he did not want to speak to Felina, for Xation still harbored much ill will in his vicious heart against her, but he had no choice really for no sooner than he could respond Charles had pulled out his mobile phone and immediately dialed Felina's number. "Wait." Xation said trying to stop Charles from making the call but it was too late.
     "Felina?" Charles said as he rose up from his chair, his face radiant as he smiled wide at the sound of her voice."I'm sorry to be calling you in Spain so late, but I have some wonderful news.., I would like very much for you to come to Aruba with me for the next 2 weeks, Xation says it's okay!" Charles, his eyes turning a brighter shade of blue, at the thought of being with his most dearest, beloved Felina once again enraptured his heart and mind, for Felina could always make Charles feel, in a word, Divine. "Sweetheart.., someone here wants to say hello." Charles said handing the phone over to Xation, who had not spoken to his sister since she threw his beloved down the stairs.
     Xation took the phone from Charles recalling the last thing he had said to his sister 'Now you be a good dog and fuck off!', reluctantly Xation opened up his mouth saying 'Hello, Felina."
     "Xation? Is that you?" Felina said her poor, tortured heart melting at the sound of her brother's voice, as her eyes welled up with tears as she trembled in her bed listening to the sound of her brother's breath.
     "Yes, I am right here." Xation said as he walked out of the room so he could be alone in conversation with his sister, whom he had missed terribly.       
     

Chapter 23 begins

     Oscar del Diego, a slight, small man, with average looks and above average intelligence, with a mind for numbers and ethical behavior, sat in front of the C.E.O. and President of the company he had worked for, going on, almost 3 years now. Oscar was nervous but he had an obligation to bring his boss, Mr. Xation Day, and the V.P. Jerome Hays, the terrible news, that could prove to be most detrimental to the company. "Gentlemen, thank you for meeting with me today., but, I have some bad news.., I'm afraid."
     "Go on." Xation said as he sat behind his desk, arms folded across his chest, his heart racing.
     "Yes, what have you discovered?' Hays turned his head, sitting next to Oscar giving him his full attention.
     "Well, I have been going over the F.O.X file, the Friends Of Xation..," Oscar paused giving Xation a knowing look as he continued "Sir, I know and respect, these are your friends and many have foregone paying any closing cost, or standard fees.., or, in many cases, their mortgages altogether.., for months at a time..,, and, of course, this is all up to your discretion."
     "Yes, this is common practice." Xation said, and he was absolutely correct in his statement. "But, first of all, I thought we put Mr. Reynosa in charge of those accounts." Xation looked at Hays who shook his head in agreement "Why is he not bringing this information to our attention?"
     "Oh, Mr. Reynosa has been out sick with the flu for the past week." Oscar said "I just took over and wanted to make sure we were up to speed."
     "I see." Xation replied realizing Mr. Reynosa was the source of all this trouble.
     "Well, as I say, their are many accounts that are way over due in mortgage payments, to the tune of about $850,000. Now of course this has not been reported as a net gain, and does not affect the worth of our company.., however." Oscar said as he placed a file on Xation's desk saying "This is the account of William J. Sinclair, owner of the Bridgepoint Tower, located on South Padre Island, Texas.., in the United States."
     "We know where Texas is! Now what is the problem? Hays said growing antsy, but both he, as well as Xation, knew exactly what he was about to say.
     "Well now.., Mr. Sinclair has been making his mortgage payment of $75,000, every month, right on time." Oscar informed them.
     "Well,  I do not understand." Xation threw up his hands, feigning ignorance "This is what we want our clients to do, yes?"
     "Yes, of course.., it's just, well somehow, the money comes in.., but minutes after the Internet transaction has hit our bank account, most of the money is diverted, with in the hour, to an off-shore account in Aruba. This has been going on for the past 23 months." Oscar said rubbing his temples, his migraine returning once again, then he continued "This money HAS been reported as part of our Net Worth and therefore our company's value has been inflated, without our shareholders knowledge."
     Hays and Xation only sat there in silence staring at one another realizing that Oscar had discovered their dirty little, fraudulent, illegal secret and they knew something had to be done at once. "How much are we talking about here?"
     "We're talking about $17,500,00.., quite a significant amount." Oscar said with a heavy sigh, knowing the Argentine government could seize the business and the Securities Exchange Commission could weigh charges against his boss, and millions in fines and fees, as well as devalue the stock/shares of the entire company, etc, etc, etc... "This is quite serious, all that money just disappearing, I can not even get passed the security to get any more information on the name of the company, or bank account the money was transferred to, it looks like someone installed a ghost program, and I do not have the training to deprogram it.., so I know you are the computer genius from M.I.T. Mr.Hays.., perhaps we can go to your office and I can show you exactly what I am talking about."
     Xation gave Hays a look as if to say 'that can not happen', so Hays sat there a moment, deep in thought then he said "17 million?"
     "And $500,000." Oscar added.
     "Yes..," Hays said scratching is chin, looking at his watch "Say it's almost one o'clock, let's take a break for lunch and I want you to bring this file to my office at 2:OO and we will get to the bottom of this, I need to make a call to Mr.Reynosa and see just how involved he is in this conspiracy to defraud this company and our investors." Hays said trying to point the blame at an innocent man.
     "Very well.., and Mr. Diaz." Oscar del Deigo said as he stood shaking Xation's hand "I am sorry to bring you such bad news. But I was only doing my job, what you pay me to do." Oscar mentioned as he had an awful, dreadful feeling that this would not end well.
     "No.., thank you for your due diligence and the loyalty you have shown to me and my company."Xation said without a smile as he rose, towering over the little 'accountant',  a droll little man, who went unnoticed most every where he went. "I want to have a full report on my desk in the morning Mr. Diego, we have to find out where all our money has gone."
     "Thank you Mr. Diaz! I will do my best, with the help of our corporate law-dogs, we will get to the bottom of this!" Oscar said with a smile of great determination.
     "Well, now hold on.., let's just keep this between ourselves, until we can get a handle on the situation." Hays interjected as he and Xation along with Oscar all agreed. So their astute forensic accountant took his leave to go and have a little light lunch before his meeting with the V.P. Jerome Hays.
     It was about 43 seconds after his departure from Xation's office as the two sat there in silence, realizing their little scheme was starting to unravel and then Xation gave a serious, dreadful look to Hays, then he opened up his mouth and said "We have to get rid of him.., soon."
     Hays gave Xation a look, as solemn as a grave, saying "Yes.., and Mr. Reynosa too."

End Chapter 22

     The wedding was the talk of the town and in all the society papers from Buenos Aires, California, Texas, to New York and Madrid, all who attended had charming and amusing stories to tell of that day for years to come. All except for our brokenhearted Felina, whom had been made whole again mentally through the excellent work of her doctors and nurses and returned to society with a better attitude and a stronger prescription of Remeron. However Felina decided to relocate her riding academy to her grandparents villa on the Costa del Sol, in Spain, all this was done with the help of her trainers who were glad to move to a new location in Europe. So it came to pass, as the wedding day of her beloved brother came and went, Felina spent her time dedicated to her students and taking time to visit with her elderly Abuelo y Abuela. This only served to do her heart, and mind, much good, but she did miss her brother, Xation, and life on the Estate terribly, but Felina knew, and was well aware, that all this undoing was her own fault, through her own overbearing, aggressive ways. Felina could not forget it, nor could she ever forgive herself, but she had learned to accept it, knowing she was so pathetic. Felina also knew she had to let go of the regret, and move forward in a positive direction, if she was ever going to be able to progress towards a brighter future.
     Now, not only did Felina not attend the wedding, but she was not present at the birth of her nephew, Jason Anthony Day, Xation's and Leah's little boy, nor did she attend the Christening, at the cathedral, of the baby in November. Though she did send a silver baby rattle from Tiffany's, with the initials J.A.D engraved upon it, and Leah thought this was a nice gesture, though her husband, Xation, did not agree so he promptly through it in the trash bin. So this is how it was between brother and sister, this strain on their once, fiercely protective, and loving, relationship was a burden to difficult to bear by either of them, the best thing for them to do, at this point, was to stay as far away from each other, at all costs. These were the unspoken terms of their relationship and only out of her deep Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor for Xation and his wife, Felina would abide by this new disaccord.
     Meanwhile back in Argentina, it was late November, the long hot summer would soon be setting in, and Leah and Xation traveled back to the Estate up from the city with their precious, healthy baby boy. Aphina and Carlo were elated to have their first grand child to dote on in their old age, and they were amazed how much Jason resembled his father, they were so alike you could not tell which baby picture was whose. Lexa was so happy and proud of her Nephew, she would cuddle and cradle the babe as if it were her own, but, of course, when Lexa wanted to get drunk with Charles, or smoke weed, snort a few lines of coke with Bengiman, she could always hand the little baby back to his sober and loving mother. Leah was the happiest she had ever been, though she was upset by the 4 inch scar on her abdomen from the Cesarean section, Xation had demanded she have this procedure, as he did not want her tight vagina stretched out by the birth of the 9lb 7oz baby. Leah respected his wishes and she decided it was better to have a little scar on her stomach than displease her man, sexually or otherwise.
     Life was quiet around the Estate with Felina and the instructors and students of her riding academy gone away. Charles had little work to do with so few people around, but Xation wanted him there to keep an eye on his boy, and make sure he was strong and healthy; which he was more than proud to do as Leah and Xation had named Lexa and himself as the godparents of Jason. This also left Charles with the hope that maybe someday he and Lexa might marry and raise a little family of their own, though Lexa might have been keen on this idea, she was still having a few 'sessions' with Bengiman. Lexa knew eventually Charles would only be left with a broken heart, but for now she was still leading him to believe that she loved him, and she did.., in a way. Of this drama and strife Xation and Leah were none the wiser, so life carried on through Christmastime and New Years, however after the first of the year Xation could no longer lounge about his Estate helping to raise his new baby, no he had to get back to the city and take over for Hays. Who had, once again, come all the way back down from Dallas to run the company while Xation was away. However, when Xation arrived at his office he found Hays in a very distraught state.
     "Xation! Thank God you are here!" Hays said speaking rapidly, his voice shaking, his face was a pale as bottle of milk.
     "What is the matter? Has something happened to Serena?" Xation said fearing the worst.
     "No, she is visiting your sister in Spain. No, this is not about your family!" Hays said with a nervous look as a thick tension began to fill the room "It's about our business."
     Xation felt all the energy drain away from his body and, for just a moment, he felt like he was going to faint, Xation set his briefcase down, sitting himself behind his massive desk "What has happened?" he asked dreading the answer.
     "Oscar del Diego, our forensic accountant, has been snooping into the F.O.X. file." Hays replied and he did not like the look in Xation's eyes when he added "he says he has found some anomalies and he has scheduled a meeting with us in 30 minutes."
     "God damn it!" Xation said with furious anger wanting to flip his glass desk over and smash into little pieces.

More Chapter 22

     The sunny morning of Xation Day and Leah Elaine Hale's wedding was spectacular, in size, cost, and scope, over 1000 guests attended the ceremony in the lilac, rose and lily filled cathedral, and of those, only 400 were invited to the champagne and caviar reception/dinner at the city's most prestigious country club. This was a most treasured and memorable day for the couple surrounded by their families who Xation flew in from all over America, Argentina, and Spain, as well as so many friends and well wishers, whom all dressed impeccably, dining on the finest food, freshest delicacies from all over the world. Everyone who attended the, much lauded, affair enjoyed themselves immensely, none more so than Xation who felt like a king amongst his courtiers as he danced the night away with his new American bride, whom, due to her being 12 weeks pregnant, could only drink Canada Dry ginger ale, instead of champagne, though Leah did not require alcohol to enjoy her most special day, for she was filled with the precious love, and elation, of having Xation as her husband and the father of her unborn child.
     As for Leah's sister, Lexa, she was having a more vexing time at the soiree, for Bengiman kept trying to get her to sneak off with him at the party, but Lexa had grown tired of the British bastard, she did not want to be with him anymore, in secret or otherwise. So, rather than deal with the situation head on, Lexa kept guzzling down bottle, after bottle, of the cold, sweet and smooth Pierre Jouet. Due to her lack of food consumption, Lexa became inebriated rapidly, taking out her troubles on the dance floor with Charles in an erotic tango or two, or more. Then, hours later, after Xation and Leah were wisked away off to their honeymoon destination, Paris in Springtime, as the party began to wind down, Lexa excused herself from the head table, as she went down the long hall to the powder room, Bengiman noticed this as he stood at the bar ordering another glass of Grey Goose on ice. So the 'Best Man' sauntered off after the 'Maid of Honor', for, dressed in his finest tuxedo and in his alcohol fueled brain, Bengiman was starting to feel alot like James Bond, but our drunken Bengiman was more like Trouble07, than 007. No matter, Bengiman was very aroused by Lexa and her dancing, and he was left wanting to sip some of her honey, 'the nectar of the gods'. Though when he went into the ladies room after her, Lexa became enraged. Though she did not raise her voice to Bengiman, nor did she call him any vulgar names, no, she was smarter than that. So she used her wit to express her disdain. For she knew the right, carefully selected words, could bring the deepest sting of pain to the heart of any man. So Lexa stood in front of the wash basin, turning to give him a disapproving look, as she crossed her arms, folding them over her chest, she shook her head slightly and said "Bengiman.., do you know the difference between you and Charles?"
      "I'm better looking and I have a bigger dick!" Bengiman laughed as he stepped closer to Lexa, who took two steps back away from him.
     "Oh Bengiman.., so vain, so vulgar." she sighed then continued "The difference between you two is simple.., Charles worships the ground I walk on.., and you.., you treat me like the dirt beneath my feet." Lexa said readying the next sling of arrows of her words when she said "And now I know why you like to put a woman up on a pedestal."
     "Oh? And why is that?" Bengiman asked, coming closer, very near to her mouth and face, as if he were about to steal a kiss away.
     "Because Bengiman.., you just enjoy watching the look on their face when you kick the pedestal out from underneath them, that is what you enjoy most of all, you think this gives you some sort of power, and it makes me sick." Lexa said not moving an inch, only staring in his eyes with contempt, then she saw the look of recognition and understanding of the truth in his dark eyes. Yet, Lexa still had one more poisonous dart to shoot in his heart "My grandmother always warned us girls to be careful of a man like you.., 'for they will work to elevate you, just enough to bring you down'. She would always warn us." here Bengiman stood in silence, he could not say anything, because he knew she was right. Lexa knew she had his heart in the palm of her hand, as he backed away from her, averting his gaze, and then she said "Yeah, that's right, Bengiman, you don't know anything about women at all! And what you DON'T know about love.., could fill a warehouse..," Lexa said giving a wicked smile asking him in a seductive voice  "So.., do you still want me to suck your dick now?" she laughed as an icy wave of deep humiliation and embarrassment crashed through his body, whose every fiber, of which, was as tense as wires. He turned to leave and she shouted "That's right Bengiman, just walk away! Bring me some more Champagne!"
     "What is going on in here?" Charles said as he suddenly, unexpectedly opened the door, wondering where the two of them had disappeared to.
     "Charles!" Lexa exclaimed "I am so happy to see you." she said going over to him, taking Charles by the hand, giving him a kiss on the cheek.
     "Bengiman? Are you giving my woman a hard time?"
     "Well, I was trying to!" Bengiman laughed, then made up the excuse of being drink and walking into the wrong bathroom. Charles believed his lie, for he thought there was no way in hell a class act, lady like Lexa would be interested in such a poorly educated, vile, alcoholic of a man. But our dear, ignorant Charles had no idea about Lexa's affinity for evil and wicked men. Bengiman exited, leaving a drunken Lexa with the handsome Charles, so she gave him a sly, devilish smile as she locked the door, unzipped his pants and got down on her knees, and it was not to pray.
    
     

Chapter 22 continues

     The next few weeks passed quickly for Lexa, who was dreading her return with her sister back to Argentina, but she would be there to help Leah through the elaborate wedding and her pregnancy, like all good sisters should. However, time passed very slowly for Leah, and she was always bored and missing her dearest, sweetest, Xation. Though they spoke often on the phone and communicated through sexually charged, flirtatious e-mails via the computer, but it was just not the same and Leah worried about her man as she struggled through her days, her bones, nicely, healing though. Leah was desperately lonely without Xation by her side, but she knew he had so much work to do, and she could respect that, so she did not make a nuisance of herself.
     So it was around the end March, the beginning of Spring in California, when Xation, Serena and Hays flew up to La Jolla to bring Leah and Lexa back to Buenos Aires. Leah and Xation were so relieved to see each other that each one actually wept a few warm tears of joy upon embracing each other with a long wet kiss. Xation's heart was filled with jubilance as he saw his sweetheart was whole again and could walk about freely on her own with no lingering pain from her terrible injuries, their little baby growing strong in her body. Hays and Serena were very happy to see Xation so in love, and Leah looking so radiant and elated, the picture of health. Lexa was just ecstatic Bengiman was not on the plane with them, for he was busy with Felina in Spain. After an overnight stay, visiting with Leah and Lexa's parents, the group headed back to South America after a delicious breakfast Leah and her mother Sharon served up on the lanai overlooking the ocean.
     On the long plane ride home Leah and Xation went over their wedding plans with Leah and Serena, who would be serving as her Maid of Honor, and Serena one of Leah's bridesmaids. Bengiman would be Xation's Best Man, and Hays one of Xation's groomsmen. It would be a most resplendent day, to be held at the Catedral Metropolitana de Buenos Aires, overlooking the Plaza de Mayo, in the center of the city in the St. Martin neighborhood. The historic, imposing looking cathedral, was first built in the 16th century with an addition of a nave and dome to the building, added in the late 18th century. A Neo-Classical facade was erected in the 19th century, resembling more of a Greek temple to the Ancient Gods of Olympus, than the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires. Yet it was still a magnificent structure, an opulent house of the Lord, with high vaulted ceilings, tall marble columns, filled with 18th century statues of the Saints and a spectacular, ornately carved, altar piece in a Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque decoration. Leah was in awe at the photographs Serena showed her, and she felt so lucky to be marrying a man who could afford such luxury, for this would be the wedding of the year and Xation wanted the entire city to celebrate in his joy. Though with the wedding just 2 weeks away there was still much to do and many arrangements had to be made for the families coming in from America and Spain.
     Now here, during this part of the wedding planning, Leah smiled at Xation, asking him if they had received Felina's R.S.V.P., for Leah was more than willing to forget about the past and Felina's psychotic rage, and forgive Xation's sister for her violent misbehavior. However, Leah was shocked to learn that neither Xation, nor his sister Serena, had even sent Felina her invitation. This did Lexa's worried heart some good to hear, but Leah was extremely distraught by this news, and she communicated her displeasure to Xation. Then Xation, with a stern look upon his face, he turned to her and said in a calm voice "Leah, you will be my wife soon.., and you must understand that, when it comes to my family, you must trust in me always.., for I always will know what is best for you." these words he sealed with a soft kiss and Leah's heart melted like wax over a flame, for all she ever wanted out of life was a strong confidant man, who would take charge and make all the decisions, giving her less and less to worry about. Now Leah's heart melted at Xation's charm and his kiss, however when Xation said this to Leah, her sister Lexa became worried feeling very uneasy by his statement 'I will always know what is best for you', for she thought that is something you might say to a child.., or someone locked in a cage. Leah put this notion at the back of her mind for there was a wedding to plan and arrangements to be made. 

Chapter 22 begins

     So, it came to pass, as Leah healed from her injuries over the next 8 weeks, Felina had gone and checked herself in to a mental health and wellness retreat, after a long session with her psychiatrist, whom had first urged Felina to check herself in after her brutal, bloody attack, but Felina had refused to do this, and perhaps she had made a mistake. It was clear she needed help, for Felina lived in fear of hurting someone else again, especially Xation's girlfriend. Later that evening Felina settled down in her elegantly styled bedroom with Fuego curled up beside her on the bed, for here the doctors recommend and encouraged the residents to bring their dog or cat as a way of keeping the patients mind focused on the love and care of another living creature. This was the only place Felina would come as having her faithful companion with her did Felina's disturbed heart good. Here she remained for the next 2 months of extensive psychological care and psychical exercise, she turned control over to her instructors at the riding academy, having them finish out the training season without her. Even Charles, Bengiman, Serena along with Hays, would come out to the country and visit with her, bringing Felina little presents and tokens of their affection, but alas her dearest brother, Xation, never came. It was better that way and she did not begrudge him in any way, for Felina knew she had ruined their relationship that day and caused him much pain. When Felina found out, from Serena, that she had pushed a pregnant woman down the stairs, the mother of Xation's unborn baby, and soon they would marry, made Felina feel even more horrible about herself than she ever could have imagined, and several times she thought about throwing herself off the top of the building. Though she lacked the courage of her convictions and was unable to bring herself to walk up the stairs to the roof. When her time, and treatment, had passed Felina decided to leave the country, as fall set in South of the Equator, and head North to Spain to visit with her grandmother and grandfather, where her parents were still staying, for the Spring at their old family Villa on the Costa del Sol.
     As for Xation, and his bride to be, they left the very next night, flying up to San Diego to meet Leah's family. Lexa was desperate to get home, but she was not happy that Xation had left Charles behind and brought Bengiman along for the ride. Lexa would have to be careful and she had no desire to be with Bengiman anymore, but it was too late for the British bastard would always threaten to tell Charles about their torrid little affair. So Lexa focused all her attention on her still injured sister, doing her best to ignore Bengiman and his advances. Now Leah did not wish for her mother and father to know about Felina and her actions so she made everyone agree to say that Leah had been in the 'car accident' with Xation and that is how she became injured, and they all agreed, even though Xation was the only one there who knew the said 'accident' never even happened. So while they enjoyed a nice pleasant flight up to California, Charles settled back down at the estate, alone again.
     Upon their daughter's arrival in La Jolla, Mr. Garreth Hale and his lovely older wife, Sharon, were shocked and stunned by the condition of their precious daughter Leah, by the news of the car accident, and Leah's sudden pregnancy and engagement, they did not know what to say. However, after meeting Xation their shared shock was surpassed by the wonderful impression they had of the foreign man. They were impressed by his looks, charm, intelligence, wealth and Lear jet. Not only this, but they were proud to know Xation would take the plunge into marriage and raise his child and take Leah as his wife, for the growing trend in America those days, was men abandoning the responsibility of raising and caring for their own children at unheard of rates. When they saw Leah and Xation together Garreth and Sharon could easily tell the two were deeply, madly in love.
     Xation was delighted to get to know Leah's parents and hoped he could be a good son-in-law to them and a proper, fitting husband for his betrothed. Bengiman had high hopes for the marriage too, and he himself began to think more and more about finding a nice girl so he could finally settle down, and lead a simple life in a quiet town. The more time Bengiman spent with Lexa he thought she would be his ideal candidate, but he knew the beautiful and gorgeous Lexa would never have him. Bengiman was correct in his assumption, for Lexa was actually, slowly beginning to hate him.
      As for the happy couple, Xation and Leah stayed together for one more week before he returned to Buenos Aires to take back the reins to his company from Hays, who needed to get back to Dallas, with Serena, A.S.A.P.  Lexa was happy to be rid of them, especially Bengiman, and be back at home with her sister again, however, under very unwelcome circumstances. So while Leah spent the next 7 weeks at home, healing and resting, Lexa forced herself to go out on the town alone, without her sister for the first time ever. So she went and drown her sorrows in wine and vodka, prowling for good looking, strong and healthy men, even going down to the beach below the cliffs, where their 15,000 square foot home was perched high upon, with a spectacular, endless view of the vast blue Pacific Ocean. After spying a few local, handsome surfers, drinking, smoking with them,  Lexa would often sneak a few up to her bedroom, having a bit of fun with them, letting out all her anger and frustration on strangers, in sexually explicit ways, and Lexa was ever knowing this was not wise, nor was it safe, but God damn! It felt so good to be so bad. Lexa needed to get all this out of her system for soon she would have a wedding to help plan.

End Chapter 21

    Lexa was absolutely amazed when Xation took her into his office where he opened up his wall safe, taking out a little red box, inside of which a dazzling solitaire diamond engagement ring sparkled in the light. "Xation it is simply gorgeous!" she said gazing at the 5 carat, class D, Golconda, flawless round stone, in a platinum setting by Cartier, circa 1935.
    "This was my maternal grandmother's ring, Angelina, she passed away a few years ago, at 91, she asked that I give this to the woman I fall in love with..," Xation said giving Lexa a wide, happy grin "and now I have found Leah and I am going to ask her to marry me."
     Lexa felt ill once again, for even though she only ever wanted for her sister to be happy, Lexa realized that though she herself had been bringing happiness to Leah all these years, now it was Xation's turn to make her happy. Now our poor, broken hearted Lexa knew she would have to grow up, and move on, making her way in the world alone. So with a sigh and a little fake smile Lexa asked Xation "When were you planning on doing this?"
     "Right now." he answered.
     "What? Now.., it's just," Lexa shook her head "with her lying there on the examination table with two casts, it is not very romantic."
     Xation realized she was right and then a terribly sad look came over his former jubilant face. "Hmm..,"
     Lexa looked at Xation as feelings of empathy came to her trouble heart for the man she had begun to loathe and despise. However, empathy gave way to sympathy and she went over lovingly rubbing Xation's shoulder as she said "Xation, I want to help you, and do you know why?"
     "Because your a good person?" Xation replied.
     Lexa let out a little laugh and said "No, do not be fooled Xation, for I am as bad as they come. No, it is because I have known my sister for almost 30 years now, hell we shared the same womb, we have each other's DNA coiled up in our blood, and I tell you this, I have never seen her as happy with any human being in my life, as much as she is happy in your company. I knew she fell in love with you the first day she met, out on the golf course. When ever she sees you, or speaks about you, or even says your name,  her face lights up, her chest and cheeks become red with a fresh rush of blood, and her eyes turn a brighter shade of green. Leah loves you Xation, and that is good enough for me."
     Xation smiled at her kind words and the peace that abided between them so he embraced Lexa, promising to always take care of her, and Leah. Xation asked her to forgive him for what happened with Felina and he reassured Lexa that he would banish Felina from his own family if that would make either Leah or Lexa feel safer. Though Lexa said that would not be necessary, but she did tell Xation that if Felina ever tried to go after Leah again she would put an end to it, and by end to it, Lexa knew she meant and end to Felina. As for now Lexa had much to do to make this a romantic proposal for both Xation and Leah.
     "Come Xation, have all the maids and the staff bring out all the vases of flowers from the house and go and cut some fresh roses from the garden! I will go up to your bedroom and get her perfume, Fifth Avenue by Elizabeth Arden, and some candles. We will fill the room with flowers every where, but we have to hurry before the medication wears off." Lexa said as she and Xation with excitement in their eyes rushed through the house giving out orders to the staff, who were a buzz with the days events as a thrilling feeling rose up in the household as Leah and Xation set the plan into action.
     Now, it was about thirty minutes later as the sun began to set on that hot summer day, as Xation sat patiently at Leah's bedside as she slept in the room where all was still and calm, the only sound was the gentle rustling of leaves in the oak trees in the warm breeze outside the window, the drapes drawn closed against the bright rays of the red, blazing, setting sun. Suddenly Leah began to softly stir in her sleep. Leah was taking in long deep breaths with her eyes closed the strong sweet scent of Jasmine, Gardenia, Lily's and the aroma of fresh cut roses filled her nostrils, she could smell her favorite perfume and she was delighted, as she slowly, gently opened her eyes to the warm, golden flicker of the many white vanilla scented candles illuminating the dozens upon dozens of vases of flowers filling the room from the floor to the little table and wash basin in the corner, it looked like someone was holding a 'wake' for her so Leah said "Oh, I must have died and gone." she sighed
     "No." Xation spoke as he reached for her right hand. "You are safe here with me."
     "Xation!" Leah exclaimed overjoyed by his very presence. "I am so glad to see you." she smiled sweetly as Xation bent down giving her a soft kiss upon her lips. Leah gazed around the fragrant flower filled, candle lit room, wide-eyed, asking him in pleasant voice  "What is all of this?"
     "All of this, is for you." Xation said handing her a red rose as he brushed it ever so lightly and gently against her radiant cheek, and lips.
      "All for lil' ol' me?" she giggled, feeling intoxicated by the Thorazine and Xation's company. Then she glanced down at the cast on her ankle and wrist saying "Look Xation," Leah said, holding up her left arm with the white cast telling him "I hurt my paw." she laughed.
     "I am so sorry Leah.., but do not worry, I have sent Felina away to get better care for herself, she has been through much in her short life and requires specialized psychiatric assistance." Xation said with a sincere look of regret, shame and embarrassment in his dark eyes.
     "It's okay..," Leah said taking her good hand and caressing his face telling him "I said some very nasty things to her, and I probably would have done the same." Leah confessed, but would not elucidate on the matter any further and Xation would never, ever, know just what it was Leah said Felina at the top of the stairs that day.
    "Let us put the past in it's grave Leah, for we have much to plan for, for Our future." Xation said placing his hand on her stomach, rubbing her belly.
     Suddenly it all flashed back to her and she remembered Charles had done a blood test and told her she was pregnant. "Oh my God! I can't believe it Xation! Our little boy is going to be so beautiful!"
     "Our little boy? How do you know we will have a boy?" Xation laughed.
     "I don't even know why I said that., well we will just have to wait and see." here she placed her hand on top of his as they felt the warmth from her belly sharing in a brief, gentle kiss.
     "I love you so much Leah." Xation whispered in her ear
     "And I love you." after a few more kisses and Leah trying to coax him up on the table to lay himself upon her, to which Xation refused as he did not want to cause her any more injury. Xation sat back next to the examination table gazing into her emerald colored eyes, Xation took in a deep breath and made his move.
     "Say Leah.., can I be the first one to sign your cast?" Xation said pulling out a scarlet permanent marker from his pocket.
     "Oh, yes! Sign my cast! I've never had one, write something nice for me Xation!" she said like an excited school girl who just got a new pony.
     "Yes.., I will write something nice." Xation said as he began to jot down 2 words as Leah looked up at him touching his face with her right hand and she did not care about her fall down the stairs and she did not care about her broken bones, nothing in the world mattered to Leah as long as Xaton was beside her she could endure any hardship or pain. "Look." Xation said with a smile as wide as an ocean.
     Leah looked down and there in red ink was a tiny heart next to 2 words which read MARRY ME. "What?" Leah said in a confused uncertain tone and as she turned her head back to the right she saw Xation holding a tiny red box which had the most beautiful engagement ring she had ever seen in her life. Her mouth fell open and she was at a loss for words, and she realized surely this was just all some vivid dream and her mind was only deceiving her. "Am I dreaming?"
     "No, this is all very real, I can assure you."
     "You want to marry me Xation?" she said with a wave of great pleasure engulfing any of her doubt or confusion.
     "Yes, very much so." he smiled still waiting for her answer.
     "Why?"
     "Oh Leah, everyman needs something good to die for."
     "I don't understand." Leah said intrigued by his statement.
     "A man needs something good to die for, to make life beautiful to live." Xation said with all the truth and goodness that remained in his heart, and the joy he found within Leah's love was something he would always keep warm.
     "Sweetheart." Leah gave Xation a deep and meaningful smile saying "Yes I will marry you Xation, because, after all, with you by my side, life IS very beautiful." Leah said slipping the ring on her right ring finger, as her left hand was too swollen from the traumatic injury. Leah was in love with Xation wholeheartedly and she absolutely loved her new ring, however, if she had known the truth behind the ring she would have been quite displeased. For she was not aware that just 6 months ago another woman had been given this same ring in the hopes of a succesful marriage. However Xation was forced to call off the nuptuals because the moment he gave his ex-fiance the diamond ring she changed. She became insanely jealous, controlling and constricting, demanding all of Xation's time and attention, becoming needy and greedy of every minute of his day, constantly calling to check up on him, texting him 50 to 100 times a day. No he could not abide by this strife in his life, not from anyone, and espically not from a woman he was going to make his wife. Now Xation had no clue the change in his ex-fiance was achieved through Felina's undue influence, planting seeds of doubt and jealousy in her brain, and had Xation been aware of this he would have gladly punched his sister in the face earlier today. There was a great deal of information being held from Leah about Xation and his family, but she had said yes, and agreed to bury the past in it's grave, and move on towards the future of being a loving happy family; which is something they both desperatley wanted. Though even with the past in it's grave, it's ghosts can still haunt you and there are worse things that hide in the dark.

    

Continuing Chapter 21

     As Xation sprinted across the lawn back to the main house, he noticed Felina's car was gone, and when he went into his house Xation asked Sanantonia, one of his maids, where his sister was but he was informed that no one knew she had even left the property. This did Xation's heart good to hear, to know the little viper was not around. As he went through the hall, in the west wing, he heard shouting coming from down the hall. Lexa was yelling at Bengiman, then he heard him say to her "Yes, I know you're right! This is all my fault Lexa! If I had not gotten so drunk last night, I  would have been up bright and early fighting ready, lance in hand, but I fucked up."
     "Your the fucking security for fuck's sake!" Lexa shouted as Xation crept down the corridor for a listen, as she continued "But I suppose that only applies to members of the family, and not their house guests!"
     "I know how angry you are so just do it.., punch me in the face to take out your rage and we can move passed this." Bengiman said as he moved closer to Lexa who at 5 ft 10 in, came to Bengiman's chin "Go on punch me in the face, it will do you good, I promise."
     "Oh Bengiman..," Lexa smiled reaching up with her hand gently caressing his face saying sweetly "I do not want to ever hurt you." she exhaled and then she closed her eyes, tilting her head back giving him a tender kiss.
     Now Xation, who stood in the open door way, going unnoticed by the pair, knocked loudly upon the bedroom door saying "Well..., what is going on in here?"
     "Xation!" Bengiman said startled then he gave his friend a wink stating "I'm only trying to console her."
     "Well you let Charles see to that." Xation said growing very concerned, for the way Lexa caressed his face was as if they already had a deep intimate knowledge of one another, and the little kiss between did not seem to be the first time, but Xation had other things on his mind, though from the looks of it, it would appear as if it was Charles who was dating a whore. No matter, no time to waste so Xation gave Bengiman his instructions saying. "First off, go upstairs and have a bath. I need you dressed and ready, sharp and alert! Have our fly boys fuel up the jet. Get down to the city, find Felina, get her to her doctor and have her check herself in again." Xation paused and turned to Lexa saying "The help we have provided for Felina and her 'rage disorder' obviously was not extensive enough, but I can assure you she will never pose a threat to you, or sister, ever again."
     Here Lexa stopped in thought wondering why Xation included her in his statement, for why would Felina wish to harm her.., poor stupid Lexa had no clue about Charles and his murderous, torrid affair with the mentally unstable Felina.
     "Yes, I will take care of it." Bengiman said as he turned to exit the room.
     Xation called out to him "Oi! You have to find Serena and let her know what's occurring. She will be flying up to Texas tonight, Hays is coming back tomorrow, to take over while I take time to heal from my 'car accident'" Xation rubbed his still black and swollen left eye. "He will be taking over for me for the next seven days, while I take time to heal.., and then Lexa." Xation said turning his attention back on the distraught twin of his beloved, telling her "In just about..," Xation said looking at his watch " 29 hours, you, and me, and your sister, will be flying back to San Diego so I can meet your family and tell them about the baby." Xation said with a great look of sheer delight and cheer upon his face.
     "What?" Lexa stammered "Does that mean you are going to do the right thing?"
     "What do you mean?" Xation asked as Bengiman departed the room and set about his tasks.
     "Well.., Xation, I don't know how things are done down here in South America, but in my country when a man gets a woman pregnant, out of 'wedlock', he usually will marry her, so as not to have any little bastard children running about." Lexa said in an almost accusatory tone.
     Xation only smiled, knowing Lexa had no clue as to what he was about to do, so Xation held his hand outstretched, open to Lexa and said "I am so glad you asked me that question! Come! I have something to show you." Xation laughed as he escorted Lexa out of her room down the hall to his private office.