shipwrecked

Chapter 1

Helen Belden worried to the point of frantic. It had been 3 days since Trixie left for a ballgame in Albany, still she and Jim hadn’t returned. Calling Jim’s cell phone revealed a cell phone out of service answer. A trace on its internal signal couldn’t bare signal either. The service told Mr. Wheeler that likely meant the phone had been destroyed.

Helen called her x husband Peter regarding their daughter with the news. He stopped playing peek a, boo with his youngest daughter Melissa to take an interest in this call. He walked away from his young wife to ask. “What do you mean, she’s missing. We’ve been through her being missing before Helen, calm down, I am sure they just haven’t thought about calling yet. You know how young love is.”

“Peter, I am sure it is worse than that. What about that thing Jim married a few months ago in Vegas? What if she is some sort of She Devil? You know all she wanted him for was to make her a legal citizen of the U.S.? He’s with our daughter not our son, what if that woman got angry for his divorce demands. You and I both know that Jim didn’t like being tricked like that.”

“Okay, you might have a point.” Peter answered. “I’ll make a few calls myself and see what I think.”

“Thank you,” she answered as she rolled her eyes. “You do have another daughter just because she’s older doesn’t mean she doesn’t still need you. She is trouble prone, she always has been trouble prone and she needs you Peter.” She said coldly.

“I am aware of that?” Peter answered as he rolled his eyes. He could tell by the tone of her voice that she was going to start nagging him again.

“Then prove it.” Helen said gruffly.

“I take it, she’s yelling again?” His new wife said calmly once he hung up the phone. Helen could rile him to tears almost every time. Lisa always hated that she never could rile him to tears what she did or said never mattered not like it did when Helen spoke. At first she saw Peter as a handsome older man. He was tall dark and handsomely distinguished and even better, he was very rich. She had been a bank teller counting money everyday when she silently watched Peter and his wife going through a rough patch. It was her opportunity to manipulate her way into the bank president’s life. Helen wasn’t as easy to get rid of as she hoped though. Helen kept Crabapple farm the huge antique mansion on Glen Road, because Peter informed her that Crabapple farm was a Johnson inheritance not a Belden inheritance. The farm was hers because of that inheritance. Lisa was never sure if she believed that, because she always thought Trixie convinced her father to say that, because Trixie didn’t trust her.

Once Peter realized that pretty young lady had an interest in him, having an affair with her was easy and unbelievably exciting. It wasn’t long before she was pregnant and wining, but Peter I am pregnant, now what will I do. Peter, being a family man was torn between his old family and his brand new one. He couldn’t walk away from the vulnerable young one. Once Helen discovered, he was cheating on her she tossed him out. His decision had been made for him. Helen found her own way in life by hiring on as a cooking hostess on one of Mr. Wheelers Television shows. It paid enough for her to keep her bills paid and keep Crabapple farm without Peter’s income.

“Trixie is missing. It’s been long enough, we should start worrying.” Peter sat down with a sigh. “That girl, and her mysteries, one of these days, it’s going to kill her. I have to go out there and find her.”

“She’s been kidnapped before hasn’t she?” Lisa asked soberly.

“More than once,” he groaned with a nod running his hands through his thick curly brown hair. “I thought she was with Jim so I wouldn’t have to worry because he’s her protector, but the cell phone service thinks Jim’s phone was destroyed. They can’t trace it back to its source. I don’t know what is going on right now but.” Peter appealed to her sympathy as he made eye contact with her blue eyes.

“That’s not good,” Lisa answered. “Is there anything I can do?”

“Just keep an eye on Lissa while I am gone. I don’t know what else to do.” He answered preparing to leave their condo to head out to the farm to talk to his x-wife civilly.

“I always do. It will be okay Peter, I am sure it is just a ploy to get your attention.” Lisa grinned. Trixie hadn’t exactly been the nicest person to her, especially once she discovered she was having an affair with her father. But she was his daughter and like it or not, she had to deal with her. She tried not to wish ill will on her, but that wasn’t an easy thing where she was concerned.

“I doubt Jim would be a party to something deliberate.” Peter shook his head. He didn’t think this was a deliberate attempt for his attention. “Besides my daughter would never have to resort to something that drastic to get my attention and she knows that.” He added. Peter left the house without another word. He knew Lisa was wrong this time Trixie wasn’t the type to act out. She didn’t even act out when they were getting divorced when she could have thrown tantrums. She was right there trying to act as mediator between himself and his wife. She acted more like a couple’s counselor than a spoiled child. This made him proud of his daughter and the young lady she became.

Matthew Wheeler began to worry about his adopted son in his home. Something was wrong. It wasn’t like Jim not to contact him. He already spent hours searching everything for his son. He refused to believe he was dead, nothing indicated an accident. He hired a private investigator to look for them both. Trixie’s father also hired another private investigator to look for his daughter and her best friend. Worrying over his daughter took him away from his new wife and out to Crabapple farm to deal with his family. At first he thought his x wife was simply overreacting to her missing daughter, but as time wore on even he could see the upset was understandable.

Honey Wheeler didn’t need someone to investigate for her. She spent too many nights with Trixie helping her investigate things to know the ins and outs of an investigation. She couldn’t let her adopted brother and her best friend and business partner disappear forever, not knowing what happened to them bothered her. She took to the highway determined to exhaust all possibilities before admitting defeat. She had Jim’s so called wife investigated to see if she might be capable of murder, but discovered she hadn’t even been in the country. She went to Acapulco to look after her sick mother three days before they disappeared and was still there. She also knew nothing of his disappearance she also discovered that contrary to popular belief. His wife was not a poor peasant. Her family was extremely wealthy living in Acapulco. That nearly eliminated Veronica from the suspects. The lawyer that Trixie worked for was discretely trying to help Honey but not too obviously because of his wife’s nosing into his private affairs. Honey couldn’t find suspect with his wife either since his wife was in the hospital carrying a high risk pregnancy. She was likely flat on her back not even suspecting her husbands affair. That was when Honey discovered that Mark was likely just sex deprived, because he couldn’t with his wife and was likely using Trixie as a substitute until she had that baby.

That was not good news for Trixie, but not necessarily a bad thing for her either.

 She eventually traced Jim’s car to the small private airport south of Sleepyside.

The woman in charge said they had a plane that disappeared a few days before and no one knew who the passengers were or if there were passengers on that plane.

Honey asked, if she could determine how long Jim’s car sat in the parking lot and that woman in charge indicated about 5 days. The best information Honey could obtain was that the plane that crashed was probably struck by lightening or possibly had some kind of engine trouble or the pilot could have chosen to take a holiday completely alone. He did that from time to time. He would return once he was good and ready. The girl behind the desk indicated that her husband often disappeared without a trace for days on end before returning this wasn’t unusual for him.

Honey left along with Brian and Mart and they drove to the nearest airport with information on the radar screens to ask if they tracked a small plane out of that area on the day in question.

It would take a while to go through the records, but they weren’t too late to check. So Honey and Brian headed for the courthouse to file for a warrant to search those records.

In the meantime, her father’s investigators were driving everywhere trying to locate Jim’s mustang in a ravine or over a cliff’s edge all the way from Sleepyside to Albany.

Honey called her father, and said she located Jim’s car in Tarrytown. She thought they took a private jet somewhere, not his car like they previously thought.

Matthew was shocked that she found the first evidence of them, but he smiled impressed with his daughter’s skills already. She explained how she was getting those records subpoenaed already.

“Trixie wasn’t the only one able to investigate dad.” Honey told her father when he reacted to her information with a shocked voice.

“Now Honey, don’t be annoyed, I am glad you found this evidence. I just hope we can find more clues soon. I am worried, remember never mention their possible death. We don’t want Broom Hilda to lay any claim to his estate while he’s gone.”

“I know,” Honey calmed down. “Did he have a will?”

“Yes, but he willed everything to Trixie, he figured she earned it. Considering what is happening with his trapped marriage. He wanted to make sure she was in control of it because she would do what was right over Veronica. It is a huge shock getting married like they did. He didn’t even know her.” Matthew answered with a sigh. “That sounded like a good idea at the time, but now she’s missing too.”

“Oh man,” Honey groaned as she hit her sides. “This sucks, I have some more calls to make. I’ll keep in touch.”

“What is up?” Brian asked as she hung up the phone. He had been silently driving the car while she spoke to her father.

“Jim doesn’t have a will that will help us keep his estate protected.”

“Well, you can tie it up for seven years before anyone can claim anything.” Brian answered.

“I know, and it isn’t like I want his stuff, but I just know he’s returning and he’ll want his stuff.” Honey agreed. “If the baby truly is his then she should have his stuff but not that woman. Do you know what I mean? I mean tricking someone into marriage just because you are desperate to become an American citizen is ridiculous.”

“I agree, we’ll just protect it, if he doesn’t return in seven years then he’s probably gone.”

“Your sister,” Honey teared up.

“My sister is mortal Honey, she’d be gone two.” Brian agreed.

“We are a long ways from seven years, they aren’t gone.” Honey said loudly.

Three weeks would pass and still no records were released from the Airport. Their, only hope was that the municipal airport in New York City had a record because the private airport refused to give any information. The woman that was in charge went to jail before divulging any information pertinent to the case. She claimed they couldn’t claim discrete trips if they divulged that information which might have been true, but in this case things had changed.

“What does she have to hide?” Matthew slammed the phone down in frustration. He wanted to know why this woman was so insistent on privacy.

“We have a warrant. Her husband was the pilot of that jet and we have a statement made by his girlfriend that she thought the woman knew her husband was cheating on her. She thinks that foul play might have been involved.” Peter Belden interrupted him in his den to say.

“You found a girl friend?” Matthew wheeled around to see who his maid let into his den.

The maid quickly hurried away once she got the order to do so when Matthew motioned her to go.

“We did once we knew who to investigate.” Dan Mangan interrupted Peter. He had been the man that Peter hired to investigate. Dan had his own private Detectives office. He and Tad Webster were partners. They were both working on this disappearance together. Dan was the one to come over to the Manor with Peter.

“I can’t believe that woman swearing that her husband is just in Canada and planning to return soon.” Dan rolled his eyes. “We have problems with her, something is up and I don’t think it is legal.”

“She probably has something to lose if he is dead.”  Peter supposed.

“That could be only if he has some sort of insurance like a death benefit or maybe he had SSA. You are allowed to work and still get SSA or possibly Veterans benefits for being disabled and a veteran.”

“That is small time money.” Matthew shook his head.

“If you don’t have it, it might not feel that small.” Peter argued as he agreed with Dan.

“I am sure there is another angle. Like not wanting anyone to find her dead husband’s body, because she doesn’t inherit the business if he dies, because she isn’t named in his will. Maybe his girlfriend is instead. If he is alive, the girlfriend can’t take her business.”

“That sounds more realistic,” Peter agreed with Matthew. “We’ve checked every possible flight path between here and Albany a thousand times. I have been in the air myself. I can’t see a plane on the ground between here and there.”

“If it crashed into the lake…” Dan suggested.

“If it crashed into a lake, we are in trouble that would likely muffle the black box signals. If it went into Erie or Ontario or Michigan for that matter we might never find a trace.”

“Well, it can’t signal if it exploded.” Peter pointed out.

“My son isn’t dead.” Matthew said firmly.

“Is he your real son?” Dan asked suddenly.

“Why did you ask me that?” Matthew turned his attention Dan’s direction instantly.

“Well, he looks like you, it is a logical question. You love him like a son don’t you?” Peter asked calmly.

“Okay, he does look like me,” Matt smiled. “I have been married before.” He whispered loudly. “It had to be annulled because her parents insisted it’s a long story but I wasn’t good enough for their daughter they got my parents involved and soon enough it became to much for us to handle next thing I knew she left and it was just over. He was 15 years old and in major trouble. I simply lost contact with both her and my close friends from college. Once I took one look at him I knew who fathered that boy, but telling anyone wasn’t a good idea. Jim idolized his father, my best friend. Win Frayne deserved something for raising him. I just haven’t brought that subject up out of respect for his parents.”

“Does Jim know?”

“I suspect that he suspects.” Matthew leaned against his desk comfortably.

Dan rolled his eyes. “Silver spoons,” He muttered under his breath.

“Now son, don’t get jealous,” Matthew put his arm around his shoulders. “Jim wouldn’t consider himself born with a silver spoon. He’s been through a lot losing both his parents like he did. It was as tragic as your losing yours as well.”

“I know,” Dan answered. “You’ve been a good friend to me two.” Dan promised.

“Ever wonder why your Uncle Regan looks like me?” Matt Whispered.

“Oh, gosh,” Dan gasped as he pulled away from Matthew’s sideways hug.

“Relax, he isn’t mine,” Matt laughed loudly. “You’d have to speak with my father about that but your grandmother used to be our maid. When my father died, she was mentioned in his will. It’s a shame she died before he did though.”

“Dang,” Dan gasped.

“I have the number of a lawyer that you and Regan should speak to someday about that subject.” Matt laughed. “That loan you got from me to start your agency probably won’t actually be a loan in the end.”

“Huh?” Dan squealed.

“Oh brother,” Peter laughed loudly “What a tangled web we weave Matthew.” He added.

“Why, did you wait so long to tell us?”

“I have told your uncle son. He refused to make the call. This time I am telling you do what you want with the information.” Matthew answered.

“I’d have to speak to my uncle about that,” Dan answered. “I would rather have you as a friend than an enemy. I wouldn’t want you angry at what might have been in that will.”

“Son, I have enough not to worry about what my father had. I am self made not inheritance made. We’d always be friends.”

“Just remember us in your will Matthew.” Dan answered.

“Funny, that is what your uncle told me,” Matt laughed. “Protect my daughter when that urge to be a detective gets both her and Trixie into trouble.”

“Why do you think, I opened that agency before them?” Dan grinned widely.

Chapter 2

Trixie thought to herself as she bandaged Jim’s arm with that recycled cloth. It had been a long time since that plane crash sent her and Jim, the only survivors into the wilderness by the edge of a beautiful lake somewhere in the Northern Adirondacks.  Jim was injured after the crash by a black bear attack. Luckily, she came to his rescue with the large wooden poles that Jim made just in case. They were carved into a point like a spear. She still had nightmares of the night. She had to run that black bear through the back with it. Jim told her that she saved his life killing that bear like that. It also gave them enough meat to last for a long time as well as a bear skin rug that he taught her how to tan to make into a nice rug by hanging it out between several stakes in the ground and covering it with salt found in the plane every day after that she’d have to hit the hide with a stone as it dried this would make the hide soft and smooth. Jim explained that he had been learning a lot about survival from Mr. Maypenny and now he was thankful for that information because he was sure they would need warm blankets soon.

She was still worried about infection setting into his wounds. Those bear claw scrapes were deep in places.

 Jim also told her that the smell of blood couldn’t be allowed otherwise it would attract wild animals. That meant that they needed to get as far from the crash site as possible without being out of sight incase of rescue. This prompted them to begin building a cabin using the axe that they found from the planes tool box.

The tragic crash took the life of the pilot in charge of the trip. He died two days after they crashed. Jim said it was likely because of internal bleeding. Trixie and Jim managed to dig a hole, deep enough to bury his body respectfully, but the blood was all over the fuselage. This was attracting wolves at night.

“How many days has it been now?” Jim asked his survival partner.

“It’s been about 20,” she answered as she settled down onto one of the jet seats that they carried into the cabin. “I am glad I found the tool box when I searched the plane. That axe has really come in handy. I would rather sleep in a cabin than on the ground fighting wild animals all night.”

“Same with me, I am sorry I haven’t been more help.” He added.

“I am okay,” Trixie looked up at the pine branches that she put over the top of her Lincoln style log home. She cut each pine tree and notched it on each end enough to stack it along the square of logs that she was building by using long narrow poles to roll the logs up with until the walls were over their head. Jim helped her as much as he could with this project but sadly the hardest part of it was left to Trixie because of his extensive injuries. The roof placement was next on the agenda so far all she placed was long narrow logs across the cabin’s width so she could place branches on top of them looking up from inside revealed a nice roof of long pine logs but daylight still shown through badly all over

Jim spent his days fishing for fish or checking his rabbit snares. His leg had been broken he was sure of it judging by the intense bruising and the deep pain. He hadn’t been able to put any weight on it for weeks. Trixie made him a splint with small branches. She also made him a crutch.

“What are you thinking?” She asked as he munched on his piece of lake trout.

“Once I heal, I am planning to make our cabin larger,” Jim answered as he looked around at its small size. “But it is great for right now. I think it will hold out the wind and the way we locked the logs together will help hold out the bears two.”

“I hope so. I’ll probably start carrying mud up from the lake bed to seal off more of those logs. It might keep the mosquitoes out at night.” Trixie thought about how much better it would be without the mosquitoes. How long do you think we have until winter sets in and it gets really cold?”

“We probably have 2 months maybe less,” Jim answered. “I hope to find more fresh vegetables worth eating so we can store them in your little cellar.” Trixie dug a hole large enough to drop a large metal box into the ground to act as a cellar to keep their food safer from wild animals and cooler so it would stay fresher.

“You are really working to hard considering all your injuries.” Trixie fretted.

“No, it is necessary. I don’t understand who took the batteries out of our homing beacon in the plane. I guess no one knows where we are.” Jim answered. “You can’t be expected to do everything.”

“You don’t think they gave us up for dead do you?”

“I don’t know?” Jim answered shaking his head. He replied sadly, “I didn’t exactly tell anyone where we were headed. I hired a private rental. John advertises discrete flights.”

“You didn’t say you needed it discrete did you?” Trixie frowned.

“I just neglected to realize that we might have a problem. I didn’t want your brothers picking on me if I took you somewhere for the night. I thought we could see the game without their opinions. I thought discretion would be a good idea then.” he admitted judging from the look on his face Trixie knew he was trying to hide her from someone. Her stomach churned and anger started to surface.

“Huh?” Her eyes reflected confusion before she asked the obvious question.

“Why would they complain? Oh, because you took me and not one of them. They would be jealous of not getting to see the game.” She said evenly inwardly holding her temper after all she was seeing someone else anyway. She didn’t want him to know about her trip with Jim either.

“Sort of,” Jim nodded. Trixie was too innocent to realize why he wanted to spend some time with her alone. Normally that made him, hesitate to spark something more serious. He waited for her to gain an interest, but things had changed lately, he needed to show her how much he loved her before she discovered the secret he hid. Jim was to naïve to notice that she acted innocent of that only so it wouldn’t embarrass her if he weren’t thinking along the same lines.

“Man, this really sucks, what if they think we were kidnapped and they don’t even consider that we flew somewhere. I told mom we were going to the game but I didn’t say we would be flying to do it.”

“I guess they will have a mystery finding us,” Jim smiled. “I know you would rather be there working on this mystery but.” Inwardly, he wondered what Trixie’s new boyfriend back home was thinking about her being missing so long. That thought brought a slight grin to his face. He didn’t respect her new boyfriend at all.

Being lost in the wilderness with Trixie hadn’t been a distasteful thing for Jim. He was enjoying every minute of her attention.

“I wouldn’t rather be back there worrying about where you are.” Trixie protested. “I am glad I am here to help you. Being here has been interesting. Getting to know the real you has been colorful to say the least.”

Trixie cleaned up after her dinner and leaned back on the floor closing her eyes. It was dark outside. Only the light of the full moon filtered inside through the window she made using the planes bubble windows. That plane was being recycled as time passed. They were using most of it in their shelter project. The windows were easily removed by unscrewing them from their frames. They could then be taken out intact and placed into holes that she designed in the cabin.

“Trix,” Jim crawled up next to her and snuggled closer. “I am sorry our simple trip ended in disaster.”

“It’s not your fault lightening hit the jet.” Trixie answered.

“Trix,” Jim whispered.

“What?” She asked as he scooted intimately close.

“Do you really think bungle nuts is back there looking for you?”

“Who,” Trixie turned to look at his face as Jim twisted her blond curl around his index finger quietly.

“Bungle nuts, I mean that guy you considered getting engaged to.” He asked.

“There is a guy I am considering getting engaged to?” Trixie gasped. Her stomach churned wildly. Would that actually matter to him?

“Who is Mark?” Jim finally brought the subject that had been bugging him.

“Mark, you mean Mark Townsend, the lawyer I work for?” Trixie smiled brightly

Jim snuggled closer.

“I am just his file clerk. He’s cute and everything. I could go for a guy just like him to be precise, but I think his wife might object to my marrying him. We had a thing for a while but that was until I discovered his wife in the hospital trying to carry twins laying flat on her back for the entire pregnancy. This is something like their fifth try to have a baby. She miscarries every time. Did you overhear my overheated fantasy that I was talking to Honey about just before we left for that game?”

“I wouldn’t object to your marrying me.” Jim whispered as he reached over and twirled her curl around his fingers. “Don’t let that spoof get you pregnant just to steal your baby because that is likely where that is headed. He’s probably given up hope that she can father his child. I have heard of men that would get a young woman pregnant hoping she wouldn’t want to keep the child because of her age just so he could take the kid for himself.”

“I am not that naïve, I am aware of that. Besides I just had my cycle a week ago without pads or tampons I might add. I am not pregnant yet anyway so this is great news.”

Trixie just giggled “That is funny. You wouldn’t object, does this mean you are willing or what?”

Jim just laughed. “If we ever get back to civilization, what do you say?”

“I say, hey dude, you’d never get that past my dad.” Trixie giggled thinking he was joking.

“Do we care what he thinks?” Jim asked seriously. “I could provide for us both forever right now. I just rebuilt Ten Acres. You can live with me there while you are attending college.”

Trixie turned towards him and looked up at his face. She wished she could answer yes I’ll live with you but the thought of his actually being married flashed through her mind. This trip to see the game had been a mistake.

Jim leaned over and took the kiss he wanted, feeling more confident that she wouldn’t object. Her rosy red lips were so full and attractively seductive. Every word she spoke had him staring at them and dreaming of the day he felt brave enough to feel them pressing against his.

Her warm mouth was relaxed and inviting. He tasted her lips with his tongue and closed his eyes savoring the surge of desire coursing in his veins as she responded favorably as she felt him lift up and lean over her body. This had been a long time coming. She could remember countless nights lying next to him while he was in extreme pain because of his fractured leg, and those deep claw wounds. She snuggled close holding him while he tried to sleep. Those nights were restless and exhausting because she couldn’t feel safe on the mangled jet and it was hard to feel safe from the elements and the weather under the rock formations where the other wild animals hid. They had to build adequate shelter soon. Their fire had to be lit high at night in order to keep the wolves and coyotes at bay. Trixie soon learned it was best if the fire became a bon fire in the middle surrounded by smaller fires at five points around the big fire. It worked because the carnivores would approach and circle the flame but hesitate to come inside. Mainly because Trixie spent the first few nights setting their fur afire with torches she made while trying to protect them from being mauled by wild animals. She was beginning to feel more like a cave girl than a civilized law student because she was using her acquired skills in survival. The animals soon learned to fear them enough to respect they were out there and leave them alone.

It was hard to believe that Albany was probably only twenty miles away. She could judge the proximity by the way the lights of the city polluted the night sky. They might be able to walk there if Jim hadn’t been so injured. If they kept to the mountain ridge most of the way there.

 Opting to stay where they were was for the best. Winter was soon to settle over the wilderness making it impossible to travel far once the deep snows began. She knew that Jim was regaining strength. His wounds were mostly healed all but the deepest ones and those were nearly healed but he would need to be fully recovered before a journey of that magnitude otherwise he probably wouldn’t make it in the wild and a twenty mile hike mostly up hill would likely take days.

“Um,” she moved her face away from his. That kiss was lasting to long she felt it difficult to breathe.

“Oh Baby.” Jim whispered as his hands rubbed over her abdomen. He moved to the side of her neck for more kissing.

Trixie moved closer, she scooted under him further as she bent her left knee, Jim just helped her get her right leg under him as he maneuvered between her legs.

“Watch your leg.” She warned.

“I am fine, man I want to make love to you,” Jim groaned. “I have something for you for helping me stay alive through this. I never met a girl so capable like you.”

”What,” She managed a coy smile.

“Oh, just something that might prove interesting.” He pulled off her shirt and unclasped her bra.

Trixie groaned with this new sensation, trusting that Jim wouldn’t hurt her as she let him play with her body without protest.

This was amazingly interesting she thought to herself as he began tickling her. His hands massaged her belly and down to the waistline of her blue jeans.

“Oh hey, I am not on birth control.” She whispered.

“Baby, we might never even get out of these inferno mountains.” Jim coaxed. “If I get you pregnant, I’ll never let you deal with it alone anyway. I love you.”

“You promise. It won’t hurt?” She asked making eye contact with him as she determined if he was sincere or not.

“It’s not going to hurt I promise, I’d stop before I hurt you.”

Trixie flashed a big grin.

“Oh awesome,” Jim reacted happily continuing.

“Yes, but we have to worry constantly about the smell of blood in the camp.” Trixie pointed out. “I really could go for a cave girl mating fantasy right now but you be careful don’t bust something open.”

“True, but your cycle is due in a couple weeks again.” He pointed out. “I know you didn’t want to save those rags you had to make out of the cloth you found on the jet, but it might be a good thing you washed them out in that boiling water.”

“I am aware,” Trixie agreed. “I hope that soap I found holds out.”

Jim finished pulling off her jeans and panties he was ready for this job. “Cave girl fantasies huh, you are kinky.” He sounded interested.

“Are you sure this won’t really hurt your leg?” She asked.

“I’ll stop if it hurts.” He promised. She was worried about him that was so cute.

Trixie lay still almost scared to move.

Trixie unzipped his jeans and quickly found his rock hard organ. His French kissing was so passionate. She couldn’t even think of anything in reality. All that existed was being with him. Jim didn’t stop he picked up his pace.

Trixie responded with a wide eyed groan, for a second her mind flashed to a bit of panic the image of a caveman holding her down forcing her to let him crossed her mind as Jim leaned down cradling her in his arms as he found her lips to kiss again. Trixie wiggled her hips getting more comfortable. Her hands went up his chest feeling his muscles.

“Does it hurt?” He asked after a few minutes.

“Oh man, you are huge.” She answered.

“I’ll get out.” Jim answered instantly

“No, don’t, I like it huge.” She answered her eyes drinking in his handsome beauty.

“What,” Jim lifted up to look down at her.

 “I’ve been raped before. It’s not my first time.” Trixie whispered.

“Oh man?” Jim paused, looking into her eyes. “You didn’t remember?” he looked back down at her as he asked the obvious question.

 “Oh,” Jim laughed, feeling relief. “I am over large I mean I bought some rubbers and discovered they don’t fit, I have to buy extra large rubbers to get them to roll on.”

“I don’t want to know why you were out buying rubbers,” Trixie answered. “That is enough details.”

“Sorry.” Jim laughed. He helped her crawl over his lap next and get situated enough to feel him sliding inside. “If you have ever lived on campus you’d understand why.”

“I don’t have to live on campus to understand why, I am old enough to have experienced that anyway.” she giggled. “I always really liked you. I wish I didn’t have to be 2 and 1/2 years younger than you are though.”

“I have always really liked you myself,” Jim kissed her neck again. “Um, you are so tight and hot. Let’s have your caveman fantasy. That age difference was horrible 2 1/2 years ago, but now it is cool. You’re legally 19 Yrs old now but still young enough to wet my world.”

“Yes, much better,” Trixie giggled. “I doubt you are up for the rough stuff.” Trixie laughed as he tickled her.

“I am up for more than you think.” Jim laughed.

Trixie was lifting up and down repetitively a short minute later picking up her pace rocking back and forth over his cock.

“Um baby.” Jim squeezed each nipple as he looked up at her bouncing tits he was so glad he wasn’t shipwrecked alone. Her inner canal felt so warm and inviting, he couldn’t imagine anything ever feeling better than her.

“Wow.” Jim smiled as he watched her rocking hard enough to tense up. Her face twisted with pleasure. Her eyes fluttered slightly as she groaned feeling that orgasm gripping her body.

“Oh man, you just finished didn’t you?” Jim realized she knew what she was doing.

“I love sex, oh wow that was good.” Trixie admitted as she rolled to the side lying there panting trying to catch her breath.

“You were practically engaged to that smuuck weren’t you?” Jim asked.

“Well, he and his wife were separated,” Trixie answered. “I figured all men cheat anyway I might as well be the mistress. They always end up loving their mistress over their boring old wife anyway. You won’t get your heart broken if you don’t let yourself let it matter. I figured that it would be better being the life of the party than the boring old up tight moralistic snob of a wife.”

“What,” Jim gasped. “Baby, that isn’t true.”

“Yes, it’s true. I’d rather be a mistress than a wife Jim.” Trixie finished wiping her excess moisture off before she settled down for exhausted sleep. “Let me be your mistress.” She added seductively.

“Dang, do you really want to be my mistress?” Jim gasped his mind soaring badly. He remembered how mad Honey got when he admitted he was already married. That secret he kept from Trixie was probably already common knowledge to her. He had to admit it and explain soon.

“Babe,” Jim said after a few minutes. Trixie didn’t respond her even breathing indicated she was sleeping. He knew she worked hard all day and deserved to sleep so he didn’t nudge her awake.

He just lay there thinking about what she said. In his social circle most men did love their mistress much more than their accepted wife. Even he loved his little mistress ten times more than his wife. The lack of premarital agreement might even keep him saddled to that wife longer than he wished before it was over too. She had that two year wait, until she was able to apply for citizenship Jim did tell her once that he would allow her the two year wait if she stayed out of his inheritance because he wanted a sex partner.

Oh well, if she would rather being a mistress than a wife, this could work out well because he was now in the position to let her be that mistress. Time would tell with that subject. Jim just hoped she would understand once he could explain.

He figured she would understand that likely was why she spoke the way she did about being the mistress. Jim took a comfortable grin she was his idea of perfect.

Inwardly, he knew the child would DNA test as his the things he did with his daughter’s mother were, um Jim realized how much she tricked him for that citizenship, he groaned. He wanted a wife that loved him. He wanted someone that considered him family he didn’t want anything else.

Chapter 3

The next morning came pretty early. A thunderstorm was approaching. Trixie was up watching the ceiling she put over the cabin walls. “Do you think the wind will blow that off?” She asked Jim while they were eating their breakfast consisting of nuts and berries

“I don’t know I hope not, the big question is will it not leak? Look at the daylight filtering through there it’ll leak.” Jim answered. “You did a really good job Trix I doubt it will come off.”

”I wonder, how the pioneers made their roofs not leak?” Trixie asked.

“They keep trying something until they finally figure something that will work. I know tiles were used. Jim held up a plastic bottle. Like this, he ran his finger down it. If you cut that bottle in half and then had enough of those, you could place two together and then one going the other way to cover the seams.”

“I have seen that myself, but you would need the equipment to make tiles like that.” Trixie frowned. “I think the ceramic kiln in Art class at the college would work but then you’d need a mold and some clay.”

“We have plenty of clay at the lake,” Jim answered. “I think if we made a box of stones around a fire pit then arranged a box beside that we might be able to get a fire hot enough to make that pit in the back become a kiln?”

“If you can build a kiln, I can figure out a mold by using that plastic 2 liter bottle.” Trixie agreed. The rain pelted the ground and they ended up going to the rock formation to stay drier while the storm raged on for hours it rained.

Soon Jim was gathering rocks and Trixie was helping him stack them into the clay that they were using for mortar. By the time they were done, they had a ten foot tall chimney surrounding that fire box to let the smoke out then in the back they made another room more parts of the jet was, sacrificed for a door. Jim hoped the floor metal would be heavy enough to work. Trixie’s Clay roofing tiles plan was working but the sun wasn’t drying the clay fast enough to make enough tiles.

 They ended up finding a half rounded rail from the plane that ran almost the entire length, of it that they patted her clay into carefully pulling out the organic materials then slicing them separate from each other about every twenty four inches. They then laid the fiberglass windshield that had broken on impact over the rails so the sun would reflect through it like a magnifying glass and dry that clay faster. Two days was all it took to dry them enough to take them out. They were hard as a rock and ready to be placed on the flat stones that Jim had placed into the room for shelves. Two weeks later they were ready to fire their full room of tiles. Jim was feeling stronger. He wasn’t even wearing the splints now as he worked. He was doing more than before due to his feeling better. Once the fire was blazing hot, he shut the door he made from the floor of the jet as tightly as possible they waited for it to heat while they fished for trout and cleaned the abundant supply of lake trout getting it ready for grilling until Trixie dropped her fishing pole and said. Jim that door is glowing red. Is that hot enough?”

“I am going to assume it is hot enough.” Jim agreed. “Hey baby, what should we use to waterproof those tiles? Don’t they need some kind of glazing?”

“Oh Jim,” Trixie groaned as she hit her sides.

“Quick the Indians used what?” Jim asked.

“I am not the survivalist you are,” she groaned as she shrugged her shoulders. “Maybe we won’t need waterproofing if the pitch is high enough, the water would run off fast enough not to seep through?”

“You are more of a survivalist than you think. I have learned a lot from your ideas.” Jim argued.

“Sand turns glass like once it is fired hot enough. I read that somewhere.” Trixie answered. “I sure hope those tiles don’t crack like mad once they are fired.”

“I hope not myself I think they should hold up fine though.”

“Most likely,” Trixie agreed.

“Oh, I would give my firstborn child for a cup of sugar.” Trixie groaned spontaneously. “No, for a candy bar, I am dying here.”

Jim started laughing. “You won’t give our firstborn child Baby. I want our firstborn child calm down, the fish cooking smells good.”

“I want pizza and cheesecake.” Trixie looked at him and giggled. “Oh prime rib and Lasagna.”

“Are we going to do the food cravings again?” Jim just howled with laughter.

“Stop laughing, it helps me cope.” She answered as she nudged his shoulder “Oh I’d kill for a diet soda or a candy bar.”

Jim just grabbed her up for a big hug. “I love you.”

“I love you two Jim. It’s been interesting sharing all this time with you.” She smiled as she looked up at him. “But I am so sick of pine needle tea. It might be an excellent source of vitamin C, but I need something else coffee tea, milk. Something not organic like,” She groaned as she thought about just the place for her favorite. “Oh, a real fruit smoothie from Sonics. Wait all that is organic isn’t it?”

“You are so cute when you get into your food craving mood.” Jim teased. “There is only one thing to stop that.” He added as he looked at her with a big grin.

“Oh,” Trixie started to giggle knowing he was about to play caveman dominant like he had many times in the past with her since he got better. “What will stop that?” She asked.

He reached down and picked her up tossing her over his shoulder playfully. “Pretty momma, I am going to do you.” Jim said loudly in a gruff low voice.

“Hey did I say I’d let you do me?” Trixie beat on his back with her fists.

“Who cares sit still woman. It’s my job to make you barefoot and pregnant.” Jim answered.

“Barefoot and pregnant, why you caveman, who do you, think you are?” Trixie argued.

 Soon Jim was taking what he wanted. Trixie wasn’t exactly protesting this time spent with him served as one purpose she loved him deeply now.

Two hours later, they were up fending off the wolves with spears. They smelled their fish and got bold enough to approach them trying to take it from them.

Jim finally speared one of them enough to bring him down. The others turned and ran from them once they saw their fallen leader.

“Why must, it always come to killing one of them to make them leave?” Trixie asked Jim with a sigh.

“I don’t know?” Jim shook his head. “They wouldn’t have gotten so close if we hadn’t been distracted.”

Trixie giggled. “Screwing in the middle of the day was probably reckless. We should have gone inside.”

“True,” Jim agreed. “I like making more fur pelts though with winter getting closer we are going to need warm blankets.”

“I suppose but we have a growing pile of them and not much more salt to help tan them now.” Trixie watched him skin that wolf while he spoke. “I never realized how much work there was in living off the land.”

“True,” Jim agreed. “It’s been non stop survival since we got out here but I love living off the land especially since you are here with me. You are a great survival girl baby.” He reached over and felt her stomach. “Hey when was your last cycle?”

“Since that last one about a week after we arrived here remember?” She felt her stomach and gasped. “Oh boy you already got that job done probably?”

“Maybe,” He laughed. “I get the feeling that isn’t more muscle development in your abdomen area. Although I could be wrong I guess, but that wouldn’t explain why your cycle is over 2 months late.”

“Oh Jim, I could have complications or something. We haven’t even considered that yet.”

“Let’s just hope you don’t.” Jim answered.

“I hope not.” Trixie felt her tummy curiously. “Are my nipples really getting darker?” She asked.

“Definitely,” Jim answered. “I got you pregnant.” He added through laughter. “Hey if it’s a girl I want to name her Trixie after you.”

“Oh hell no I hate that name.” Trixie argued. “If it’s a boy we’ll name him Winthrop.” She added.

“No we won’t. For the first 15 years of my life I was Winthrop because there were so many Jim’s in my family already. I changed my name to Jim once I was on the lam from my step father.” He added

“No kidding? I thought you tried changing your name to Win to hide from him?”

“No he used to call me Winnie like I was some girl I hated that.” Jim shook his head.

Trixie always knew that there was a lot about Jim’s youth that he never spoke of she could see his eyes darken when he thought back to his earlier years. She always gave him space and didn’t pry into his thoughts about what really sent him to the highway running away from his stepfather.

Trixie suddenly leaned over and whispered in his ear.

“I hope we get back to civilization so you can finally get your PHD in psychiatry.”

“You and me both.” Jim agreed as he snuggled with her and sighed.

At least they wouldn’t have to settle for fish the next day for meat. Jim’s plan for making jerky always seemed to fill up their reserves for food nicely. All night long they worked drying those long strips of meat in a smoker hut that had been built Indian style.

Early the next day they were playing around again when

He jumped in shock. It had been so long since they even seen anyone that seeing this man was unbelievable. He let her down to her feet instantly

Trixie noticed him and turned to Jim. “Hey, is that really a man over there and a donkey?”

“Sir,” Jim said loudly as he made a step toward him.

“I mean no disrespect,” the surprisingly young man approached cautiously. The grey donkey he hawed loudly, while stepping forward avoiding the rocks while following his master. “I was just out hunting when I realized, I wasn’t following my nose to my wife’s cooking but rather to yours instead. I take it the rough display was in fun?” He asked Trixie.

“Yes,” she blushed as she nodded. “We play caveman games sometimes.”

“That sounds interesting I’d go for caveman games.” Jeff wiggled an interested eyebrow.

“Is it hunting season now?” Jim asked trying to change the subject figuring Trixie wouldn’t approve of discussing sex with a complete stranger.

“I am not sure if it is hunting season officially but we are practically starving so I took to the hills with grandpa’s shotgun.” He answered. “I know it is wrong to just move in but my wife is with child and we don’t have anywhere else to go. I have been looking for work for what seems like ever, but since the recession is killing the job prospects.

“Say no more, we don’t have much, but we do have some fish and a bunch of jerky in the pit. We’ve been stocking up for winter use and you are welcome to as much as you can use. I put the fish on the stones of our kiln thinking that it might cook that way and it appears to be working.” Jim always willing to feed anyone in need, answered. “We ended up out here because our plane crashed about 3 months ago so we have extremely little but I can fully understand how you feel.”

“I wondered where your driveway was.” the young man answered.

“That is an interesting roof.” He pointed at the pine branches.

“It was the best we could do for now,” Trixie answered. “The smell you smell is our kiln most likely. We are trying to make some clay tiles for the roof. That is clay heating up.”

“This is a pretty neat set up.” The young man took a look at the kilns construction. “That door is still glowing red around those stones you piled in front of it.”

“We didn’t think we needed another log in the chute.” Trixie nodded.

“Provided the holes are big enough to circulate that heat inside, you probably don’t.” Jeffery answered. “There is a big amount of clay around here huh?” He looked down at the lake at the thick dirt and then back at them.

“Oh, those holes are pretty large.” Jim answered as he peeked into the peek hole to see the inside still glowing red hot. “I saw a kiln once made like this one at an old world style museum. My construction might not be exactly the same but I only got a moment’s look at the design. This was made from memory.” Jim explained.

“I wish I could afford to own property. I would do something like this for myself. That clay there would make nice lawn ornaments.” The young man said thoughtfully. “Hey, I am Jeffery, by the way, so are you guys anxious for rescue?”

“Yes,” Trixie nodded eagerly.

“I would be myself. It’s going to get cold quickly. It is already getting colder lately. I never saw that lake before. I should have explored this direction already. I rather like lake trout.” He stopped eating the fish that Jim offered as he spoke.

“Do you have a phone to call out?” Trixie asked.

“No, I couldn’t afford the bill once that damned Republican Bureaucrat took all the money available for unemployment extensions away to give that tax credit to people already working. His plan was to jump start the economy by stealing from the poor to give to people with jobs already.”

“Yes, that probably wasn’t fair,” Jim nodded. He could understand his frustration, not seeing the logic in being homeless with nothing already. Even if the president was hoping the economic stimulation would create jobs enough that this poor man could get back to work instead of living off the extension he hoped for. Jim wouldn’t comment about that because politics was a touchy subject for most people everyone had an opinion of the right way to handle the government policies and they deserved to have that opinion even if it wasn’t his personally.

“What do you do for a living when you have work?” Trixie asked, thinking the same thing as Jim but being tactful enough not to say that out loud.

“I love the outdoors so I was working as a landscaping artist. I mean when I could get work but I married my boss’s daughter and he didn’t approve of our eloping so he fired me and expects Johanna to come back home rather than live with me.”

“Oh dang,” Trixie looked at Jim and gasped.

“He’s blackballed me in Albany. I doubt any other landscaping company will hire me. I have been working on my own but it is hard establishing your own business when your reputation is ruined. Fall is getting closer and I don’t have snow removal equipment yet so once all the leaves are on the grounds and raked up I’ll be out of work completely.”

“Why didn’t he approve?” Trixie asked.

“She won’t go to college. I mean she would go but it is postponed. She’s pregnant she wanted to have the baby and stay home for the first year to raise it. He wanted her to get an abortion so she wouldn’t mess up her college schedule. In his opinion I wasn’t good enough for his daughter. He thinks we were hiding something before we married but I assure you we weren’t. I was doing right by her. I care about her so much.”

“Of course you do.” Trixie nodded.

“Have you given any thought to moving out of Albany?” Jim asked. “I would get my wife away from an overbearing father like that.”

“We can’t afford the move,” he answered. “I have my lawnmowers and tools but no car to drive anymore. Johanna has a car but it is a two, seating car she was the proud owner of a brand new corvette for a graduation present. It won’t carry my tools and she can’t sell the car because her father maintains a lean against its title. Her father says the car was only if she would stay in college not if she doesn’t so he wants it returned immediately. Johanna didn’t return the car because we need some form of transportation to get her to and from the doctors.”

“Dang,” Trixie sympathized. “I would have a hard time doing as my father demanded if he were demanding I have an abortion myself. My dad isn’t rich enough to buy me a new corvette. He raised 4 children and just beginning on the fifth so it took the spice out of it for us all because of it, but he’s only wanted me to be happy, for him, college is important, but not the only means for survival.”

“I agree, it is important, but my child comes first.” Jeff said firmly.

“That is what we commonly refer to as a power struggle.” Jim shook his head.

“You can’t win a power struggle with someone stubborn like that.”

“Maybe not, but there is nothing quite as heart melting as a tiny infant smiling up at grandpa, I would suggest that you take her out of this county and not let him know where you took her until after the baby is born.” Trixie answered.

“Oh, he doesn’t know where we are right now. He doesn’t know that I knew about where this property was.” Jeff smiled. “We have a challenge ahead of us, but if she will just stand with me United, we will never fail.”

“Is that cabin his hunting cabin?”

“Um,” Jeff grinned bigger. “It is actually my great grandfathers. He isn’t alive anymore and the inheritance was given to my grandfather, but he didn’t care enough about it to even come out and look at it. My father drove me out here when I was a kid. We’d go squirrel hunting but he didn’t own it then. My grandfather is in the nursing home now he still owns it. I think anyway. Father told me to bring her up here. He wouldn’t say a word about where we were going. He gave me the keys and the directions to the cabin.”

“I have been gone a long time Johanna’s in her last trimester. That worries me I should head back.” Jeff stood up as he announced.

“Would you call out for us once you reach a phone?” Jim asked.

“Yes of course, I would. I’ll come back in the morning with some soda and some other food for your lady.” He nodded as he shook both of their hands.

“I’ll pay you for anything you can bring us.” Jim shook his hand. “I don’t have much money now but if you could call my dad. I have plenty in the bank. I’ll get you help I could use a landscaping artist if you were willing to relocate to Sleepyside New York. Here are the leftovers of our fish and I’ll get you some jerky and some wild potatoes and onions you can feed your lady that.” Jim added.

“If I could find a way to move my equipment, I’d move to hell to be rid of my father in law. My father and mother lives in Sleepyside that sounds nice.” Jeff answered.

“Oh, Jim a rescue,” Trixie sighed as they watched the man on his donkey leaving.

“I am worried. A man as determined as that girls father is, might, do him harm to get her back on his schedule.”

“Surely he isn’t that bad?” Trixie asked.

“My stepfather was.” Jim reminded her.

“I have never met him so I don’t know? He fits that profile though.” Jim shook his head.

Trixie watched Jim taking a bath a short while later. He used the water that he dumped into the metal from the jet that he turned on its side and bent up the edges enough to hold water. Most of that jet had been utilized to create something useful along the way. They had made kettles by pounding the aluminum until it curved into a cup. Trixie was shocked to discover that it heated up surprisingly well.

“Why are you watching me?” Jim looked at her and grinned as he flicked water at her.

“It took you all day long to get that water heated enough for a hot soapy bath. I am impressed.”

“The sun warmed that water just like I said it would.’ Jim winked. “It is big enough for two. Climb right in here I’ll show you something.”

Trixie giggled. “Hum climb right in huh? You are always, wanting to show me something?”

“I told you it would be warm and soapy, we aren’t completely out of soap yet.”

Jim flirted.

“Why do you suppose there was shampoo and dish soap and laundry detergent in that jet?”

“He’s likely got a girl that he flies someplace discrete for weekend getaways.” Jim answered.

“That would be fun,” Trixie giggled as she climbed inside. “I once thought you were married.”

“You thought what?” Jim blinked as she sat down.

“You were married. Honey said that the rumor around the Manor was that you were tricked into marrying some chick in Vegas. What was that about?”

“Oh that,” Jim put his hands on her shoulders as he spoke. “It actually is true, I was so drunk I wasn’t seeing straight I mean really drunk. I thought I was drinking tea, but it turns out it was long island ice tea and it is full of alcohol. Before I knew what hit me I was out cold. I woke up the next morning with a dark haired girl in my bed and a marriage certificate on the bed stand. She instantly started saying we were parting hard and I suggested getting married because I didn’t have sex before marriage.” Jim read her calm expression and relaxed a little it was time for the truth. “That used to be my policy. But after that fiasco I changed my way of thinking. I would rather be sober than drunk so I can think clearer. I could not have the expense of a divorce and the harassment of a child support order to deal with right now had I not gotten drunk and stupid.”

“You have a child?” Trixie blinked.

“She has a child. I have a list of demands. We’ll know if it is mine once the court orders a DNA test, until then, no way I barely even knew Veronica Ramirez  so I can’t tell you if she is lying or not. I can’t even remember if I really had sex with her or not. The way I calculated it, she would have been at least a month pregnant before we married to have that baby 8 months later.” Jim explained. “I don’t understand why I was so out of it. I didn’t think I drank more than one iced Tea.”

“Sounds like a con job, babies can be born a month early though so a DNA test would tell you for positive” Trixie answered. “I am not exactly in favor of sex before marriage myself, but life threw me for a major curve ball. I just said to hell with it. I thought we had plans to get together after I graduated high school.”

“We did have plans. I hope we still do have plans. I loved you already.”

“Well innocent dreams die hard sometimes,” Trixie sighed. “I hope we still do have plans my self. I love babies I’d be step mommy without problems, I mean if he turns out yours in the end.”

“I didn’t have any doubts about your willingness to be mommy.” Jim winked as he scooted closer. “I am so glad college is over for me and I am back, home now.”

“I am glad of it myself. I refuse to live on campus because I have better things to do with my time than live in a sorority house. Studying is more important than partying and getting a nasty STD or something.”

“We could start walking towards Albany. I doubt that is more than 20 miles.”

“I thought about that myself, but look at that distance over there just beyond those trees.” Jim pointed at a vast distance between tree lines.

“Yes, I see it?” Trixie nodded.

“It is either a huge valley or a gigantic lake. The city that appears to be over there in that hillside is unobtainable from here. I mean 20 miles maybe but it probably isn’t even Albany. I wish I had been not paying attention before the crash. I’d have at least noticed what that was and have an idea of how to get beyond it. If we go the opposite way we could get so deep into the mountains. We could take months before we walked to a town. We need a destination that doesn’t require crossing a lake or a dangerous deep valley since winter is getting closer everyday. I don’t think it is worth the risk. Winter in the Northern Adirondacks is unpredictable to unpredictable to leave now. If only I hadn’t broken my leg, we could have already walked out of here.”

“What lake do you think that might be?” Trixie asked.

“Trix,” Jim shook his head.

“Oh man Erie? Could you see across it if it were Erie?” She asked. “Do you feel up to walking?”

“I would have said yes yesterday, but Jeff showed up today. Let’s see if he returns in the morning. We might get an airlift out of here if he calls my dad like I asked him to. Maybe we could follow his donkey tracks. If Jeff gets lost which he might be, he might be walking in circles around up here. I doubt it, is a lake as large as Lake Erie in fact I would lay odds on it being the distance between one, mountain to the next instead of an actual lake. That down hill then uphill distance would be worse than walking around a lake even one as large as Erie.”

“I hadn’t thought about him being lost.” Trixie shook her head.

“If your dad takes that message,” Trixie added. “They might dismiss it as a practical joke.”

“I hope not,” Jim answered. “I did give him his personal cell phone number only family has that number. I wish my cell phone hadn’t been destroyed in that crash.”

Jim scooted forward. “I love you Baby.”

“Did that divorce come through?” Trixie asked her innocent blue eyes looked sad.

“Not yet, but we’re working on that.”

“Would she claim title to your estate?” Trixie gasped.

“I don’t think so at least I hope not,” Jim answered. “I guess I am worried about a lot of things lately.”

Chapter 4

“Trixie,” Jim shouted. He couldn’t find her when he woke up the next morning.

“What?” She stepped out of the kiln to look for him.

“You scared me,” Jim answered. “I wasn’t sure if a wild animal hadn’t got you treed somewhere like last time.”

“Oh no, I was getting our tiles out of the kiln. “They seem nicely hardened. I broke the edge off that one to check it. Take a look, I was thinking even if they don’t have water proof sealant on them, we could put them on the roof then paint them with tree sap to keep the water out. If we melted some tree sap I’ll bet it would work.”

“That might be a good idea.” Jim agreed, “but if we are rescued it won’t be necessary.”

“I know, but I’d like to purchase this land and the cabin maybe we could return like fly in here by chopper for vacations. It is so serine and beautiful. I love the seclusion.”

“No kidding?” Jim’s eyes lit up.

“I thought you would like the idea. We could even hide from your wife out here.” Trixie hugged him.

Jim rolled his eyes. “I’ll eventually get that divorce. We won’t have to hide that anymore.”

“I know, but I like hiding.” She giggled.

“What are we going to nail them down with?” Jim asked as he handled one of the perfectly smooth, tile in his hands.

“I was thinking about that two and the screws from the jet, comes to mind.

“Trixie,” Jim laughed “we probably could have used the jet panels for a roof topping.”

“Now you tell me,” Trixie gasped. “We probably could use it. That aluminum bends real easy.”

“Tiles are prettier though.” Jim laughed

“Jimmy, we probably could put that aluminum down before the tiles.”

Jim laughed Trixie was correct that even made better sense since it would give it a solid structure to nail to.

“Hey,” Trixie asked after she had taken dozens of screws out of the jet.

“What?” Jim stopped pounding with the hammer to look at her curiously

“You don’t really think Jeff is lost do you?” She asked.

“I don’t know? He followed his nose to us that really isn’t, good.”

“Should we have let him leave alone?”

“He didn’t invite us to go with him.” Jim answered.

“We better keep an eye out for him.” Trixie nodded as she went back to unscrewing her screws out of the jet’s frame. Jim was hammering the riveted skins off. He was flattening the sheet metal into long flat strips. The next day they would work again on their roof but there was no news regarding their friend from the night before.

By the next morning they were on the roof hand screwing screws into the sheet metal and dabbing big globs of tree sap over the holes that they already had to deal within the tin. By noon half the cabin was covered.

The sound of a chopper drawing closer made Jim stop working on placing another strip of metal to shield his eyes from the sun to look for the small black dot on the horizon.

Trixie stopped screwing in screws to stand up and stare in disbelief but sure enough that chopper landed in the yard by the cabin.

Trixie was the first to hurry down the edge using the logs that were staggering out on the corners as her ladder down.

Jeff hurried out first then Matthew Wheeler was next to step outside.

“Oh gosh, you didn’t get lost. We were so worried you were hopelessly lost we weren’t holding out much hope that you found civilization.” Trixie shouted.

“No, I knew where home was. I know I said I was coming yesterday, but it took a bit locating your father Jim. Plus, Johanna had her baby while I was gone. I am a daddy, it’s a boy. He’s healthy and happy back home with mommy.” He was beaming he was so proud.

“Congratulations.” Jim gave him a happy hug.

“He told us where to find you, but we figured it might be easier if he showed us instead.” Mr. Belden gave his daughter a big happy hug as he cried when he spoke.

“We were beginning to fear the worst.”

“We’ve been waiting for someone to look for us. We would have walked but Jim was injured and we knew it wasn’t a good idea to leave shelter with an injury.” Trixie pulled back to say to her father.

“What have you done?” Matthew asked as he gestured at the log cabin.

“Um, we built that to keep out the wild animals. We were attacked by wild animals the first week we were out here. Jim has bear claw scars on his leg and arms to prove it. We would have walked out of here but we saw the size of that lake over there and decided that we couldn’t swim across and the hills were so steep that we didn’t think we could climb them without climbing equipment and with Jim dealing with a fresh broken leg still healing. We opted to stay put during the winter figuring we might have a chance at survival right here since we can fish in the lake it is better than lack of shelter out in the wilderness.”

“Oh man,” Matthew looked at Jim’s pink scars with shock. “You are lucky, you didn’t get an infection.”

“I had a great nurse maid. She’s learned a lot about medicine from Brian.” Jim gave Trixie a cuddling hug as he spoke. “Can we get out of here I have a date with a fast food restaurant.”

“He’s buying me pizza.” Trixie told them determinedly.

“And cheesecake.” Jeff laughed.

“I brought you some stuff,” Matthew laughed. “Do you want to get anything from the cabin?”

“No, not this second but I am planning on buying that ground,” Jim said. “It is a great hunting cabin. I am returning to put a decent roof on there. I am figuring it will make a great honeymooning cabin too.” Jim winked at Trixie.

“Jeff, you can have all the jerky in that pit for your family I don’t think I’ll ever eat that stuff again as long as I live.”

“I just discovered something Jim.” Jeff said simply.

“What is that?” Jim asked as he climbed inside the chopper sitting next to him.

“I think I own the property up to the lake’s edge. The property consisted of 5000 acres of timberland. My great grandfather built his cabin closer to civilization but. Here’s the deed.” He handed it to Jim to take a look at.

“You own it I thought your grandfather.”

“That is more developing news. He died in the nursing home two nights ago and I wasn’t aware of that fact. My father wants to sell the property. I guess we really would be better off putting our resources into building our company. I won’t be Ben Rovers pee on forever.”

“Then I’ll help you out with your new found inheritance.” Matt Wheeler said with a big grin. “I have a hunting club that is always looking for new hunting grounds.”

“I also am looking for some property rather secluded to create an extracurricular school for the underprivileged. This place would do nicely.” Jim interrupted. “We could both use it Dad, hunting season begins during the fall of the year and by then the kids would have to be back in regular school. The hunting club could use this place in the fall of the year.”

“Jim about that woman you married in Vegas that you didn’t really even know?” Matthew said simply.

“Don’t tell me. Let me guess, she’s spent my money while I have been out here?”

“No, we had the inheritance nicely tied up in court until you were found. We didn’t have a body so officially you are only missing you aren’t dead yet. However the DNA test has returned Andrea is yours so she demands child support. The judge ordered child support to be paid from your estate.”

“Okay, it isn’t like I wouldn’t support my own child anyway.” Jim agreed.

“I guess that means we will have to remain discrete.” Trixie said quietly.

“No it doesn’t,” Jim answered firmly. “I am still getting that divorce paying for my stupid mistakes might cost me 18 years but I have never lived with that woman hopefully the judge won’t consider our property community property?”

“Well, your property was inherited,” Matt said soberly. “I still handle the estate until your 25^th year. Technically it isn’t yours to handle yet so this is good news. You can base your divorce claims on being manipulated into a quickie marriage in Vegas. This should help you keep the bulk of your estate.”

“What does this mean you will have to remain discrete?” Peter asked his daughter.

“We are unofficially engaged.” Jim announced. “I would have happily married Trixie unconditionally. I just wish Veronica had been Trixie.”

“That is understandable.” Peter nodded.

“How has everything been going at home?” Trixie asked.

“We’ve spent all summer searching for you,” Peter answered. “Lisa moved back to Florida.”

“What?” Trixie gasped.

“We had a misunderstanding that led to our divorce. I am currently back, with your mother now. I mean we are thinking of getting remarried.” Peter answered.

“Oh, so I’ll bet you Miss Melissa then?” She asked.

“No, Melissa is mine I have custody,” Peter answered. “Lisa got a modeling job that will be taking her south of the border and my daughter is not leaving this country. I had more influence with the court system than a 22 year old woman. Her leaving this country in lieu of her new job was the misunderstanding that led to our divorce.”

Jim snorted.

“Did I not tell you that would happen?” Trixie asked Jim. “I told you she’d find that modeling gig and take off.”

Jim responded by shaking his head and looking over at his future father in law.

“Trixie, I only married her to protect my daughter.” Peter said soberly. “I knew she would myself my baby needed protecting.”

The trip back to Sleepyside ended with reporters shoving cameras in their faces. Jim announced the death of their pilot and his burial by the jet that crashed into the wilderness then he explained about their ordeal trying to survive after bear attacks.

Trixie was never so glad in all her life to step foot on the fresh hardwood floor of Crabapple farm. Fresh smells of Mozzarella cheese and fresh tomatoes cooking together filtered through the house.

“Oh, that is lasagna.” Trixie knew that smell from outside.

“I told momma what to cook.’ Peter laughed.

“Trixie,” Helen shouted to the top of her lungs when she heard her voice the kitchen door swung as her mother smacked it hard rushing into the living room.

“I saw that interview on TV where is James?” She hugged her tightly crying hard she missed her so badly.

“He headed to the Manor.” Trixie smiled at her mother.

Peter hurried into the kitchen to get his daughter out of the high chair where Helen had been feeding her the dinner she was getting served.

“You are messy.” Peter commented as he took the plate away from the little toddler.

“She’s getting tired.” Helen reentered the kitchen to comment why Melissa was so fussy.

“I can tell.” Peter picked up a cloth and began wiping her hands and face.

“You got more of that food on your head than you did in your tummy Alissa.” Trixie said happily. The little one’s dark curls were sticking straight up with red gunk caked to them.

“I shouldn’t have left her with the plate.’ Helen laughed. “Your driving in to the driveway distracted me.”

“It is time for a bath.” Peter took her out of the high chair and hurried her to the bathroom.

“I take it Melissa is the center of attention again?” Jim interrupted.

“Hey, you are back.” Trixie twirled around to face him.

“Yes, I missed you.” Jim leaned down for a kiss. “Plus Mart said there would be lasagna down here that’s my cue for something besides lake trout. Cook is serving guess what?” He added.

“Oh gross.” Trixie giggled

Soon friends were gathering at the farm. Honey finally arrived jumping up and down she was so excited. She and Dan traveled to Acapulco to deal with Veronica and her overbearing father that were just getting information about Jim’s disappearance. They had news but hadn’t the chance to explain the details to anyone yet. The excitement of having Trixie and Jim returned was too much at the immediate time.

The night was beginning to get late when Jim suggested that they head for Ten acres he wanted Trixie to live with him when Honey finally spoke. “Wait that probably isn’t a good idea. You could get into trouble with the INS over Veronica if they would decide that you willingly married her to help her get citizenship that carries like a two year prison sentence.”

“What?” Jim gasped.

“Most people never divorce early and they never announce they were tricked because of the 2 year prison sentence worry.” Dan agreed with Honey

“You do have a daughter together who was born in the US. This will become a tool for her in which she can get citizenship anyway. I don’t suggest that you claim she tricked you but rather that you tried and can’t get along.”

“But in doing this you better keep a handle on, who you are with openly because she could claim alimony.”

“What?” Trixie gasped.

“Hell no,” Jim shook his head. “I’ll risk two years in prison, I am demanding custody of my daughter. I am saying she tricked me. That is the truth. I am also hiring a lawyer I am not a poor boy that can be trapped into something because of irrational fears.”

“But Jim we heard about a case where.”

“I said no, she isn’t claiming that we went into something willingly then I would be wide open for prosecution. She would be open for alimony demands and everything else.”

“He has a point, I’ll call Mike.” Trixie promised. “He’ll help.”

Chapter

Trixie called her lawyer friend the next morning for advice. Mike was happy to hear from her. He promised her that her job was still waiting for her return. He even wanted Jim to make an appointment to discuss his wife’s issue.

She and Jim arrived at his law office an hour later. Trixie caught up with the others working in the office about their ordeal in the wilderness and their sudden rescue.

“I would have never survived.” Mike’s wife had came to the office to show off her new born baby twins Mica and Michael, she was listening to them innocently thinking she could never live like that. “You amaze me Trixie how could, you do something so scary.”

“I figured if I didn’t do something then that big old bear would stop after killing Jim then turn to kill me next.” Trixie shrugged her shoulders. “It was primal instinct I suppose.”

“Gail, the twins should get some rest soon.” Mike said soberly as he gestured for his group to return to work.

“You are right.” His wife agreed “We’ve visited long enough.” She gathered the baby carriers placing them on the twin stroller preparing to leave.

Trixie watched his wife’s behavior thinking to her self that woman never suspected he had an affair. She would see it in her eyes. They never even discussed divorce. He couldn’t have told her about her otherwise she wouldn’t have stood there like nothing ever happened, enjoying that story so much if.

Later on Jim was discussing his issues with Mike while she sat there listening Jim very much wanted a divorce. She could tell he wanted nothing more to do with the woman manipulating his life.

“Okay, I do have a few suggestions regarding this issue because INS issues are so strict this can be a delicate process. Let’s start by demanding custody of the child. You can’ provide so much more for the child than the mother can that is obvious.”

Trixie teared up.

“What is the matter?” Mike stopped speaking to notice Trixie’s tears.

“Well maybe her mother loves her?” She answered.

“Trix.” Jim stepped closer.

“You don’t know Jim. You don’t know how bad of a life she had. You weren’t there you don’t know her. What if she is a good mother you don’t even know that.”

“Okay, don’t cry.” Jim hugged her tightly.

“Oh, I am such a horrible person.” Trixie cried more.

“Hey, calm down.” Mike gasped.

“You aren’t a bad person Baby.” Jim promised.

“Of course she isn’t.” Mike agreed with Jim.

“I would be if I didn’t stop you from ruining her life heartlessly. Can’t you speak with her first work out something in the best interest this case?”

Jim sighed. “I will if you will help me but you have to help or no dice.”

“Help do what?” Mike looked at him with a frown.

“I am not making my baby illegitimate. The one she carries is definitely mine. We were stuck in that wilderness alone for 3 and a, half months. The doctor’s exam puts her at 2 months term.” He said directly as he pointed at Trixie.

“I’ll help her figure a way to stay in America in exchange for divorce and I also get joint custody of my daughter, I won’t pay alimony but I will pay child support. She never lived with me she was never accustomed to a Wheeler lifestyle because of living with me.”

“I’ll see what can be done I’ll speak with Customs and convince them to rush a Visa through for her.” Mike answered as he came from behind his desk and hugged Trixie.

“Come on, no one thinks of you as a bad person,’ He promised. “We’ll get her a Visa what does she do for a living. I’ll try to get her a job placement.”

“She was working in Vegas.” Jim answered.

“Doing what?”

“Um, she was in entertainment for the Hilton.”

“Oh.” Mike’s eyes reflected what that meant. He cleared his throat loudly. “Perhaps my wife can think of a place of employment for her.”

“What kind of entertainment?” Trixie asked.

“She was an exotic dancer.” Jim started to laugh.

Trixie smacked his arm instantly. “You boob.” She said firmly.

“Ow Trix,” Jim laughed.

“Anna Nicole Smith comes to mind.” Mike laughed loudly as he thought of the famous gold digger stripper.

“Her father is already mega rich. He’s from Acapulco he was in politics.” Jim answered. “I believe the exotic dance might have been a form of rebellion on her behalf. She wasn’t a complete gold digger she just had her own agenda and needed someone to help her get her freedom from her overbearing father. I once had a stepfather that I very much needed help getting away from I sympathized.” Jim added.

“I do myself,” Trixie gasped. “Was her story confirmed?”

“Yes, my daughter and she are in Acapulco at her fathers place now.” Jim answered.

“So what happened out there really?” Mike asked Trixie.

“We just went to see the ballgame in Albany.” Trixie shrugged her shoulders. “Our pilot suspected his wife sabotaged the jet. He called her a blood sucking viper from which there was no escape, but I have no idea what happened really.”

“We’ll hire an investigation of the jet.”

“I know, but that might not be conclusive we did strip that jet to build better housing.” Trixie shook her head.

“If we can find the black box it is loaded with information. Besides you didn’t strip the engine or the fuel tanks did you?”

“No.” She shook her head.  

“We did wonder why the homing signal system wasn’t working.” Jim interrupted “We might have gotten a rescue even before he died if we would have been able to get that signal system to work.”

“That is exactly why this crash is still under investigation.” Mike agreed. “I am glad you are home Trixie. I was helping Honey search for you all this time. Take care of her she’s special James.” He added.

“Oh, she’s been a best friend for a long time.” Jim nodded. “I always knew she was special.”

“I’ll send intent to divorce papers to that address immediately. We’ll see what happens after that.”

“Thank you.” Jim answered. “What will happen?”

“Well she isn’t in America now so you shouldn’t have much problem trying to prove your case since she hasn’t filed a motion to stay based on your marriage and Andrea is an American citizen since she did give birth in Vegas. I’ll let you know what happens soon enough.

Trixie and Jim left his office and headed for Jim’s car.

“Now that, that is over what else should we do?” Jim said simply as he clicked his seat belt into place.

“I don’t know. He didn’t mention when I could return to work?” She cringed.

“Don’t worry about working Babe it won’t be hard to find more work.”

Jim promised.

He reached over and grabbed her hand pulling it close. “Where is that ring I gave you when we first met?”

“Oh, it’s in the safety deposit box in the bank Dad was afraid I’d either lose it or Bobby would steal it and plant it in the garden or something.”

“If I bought you a new ring would you wear it?” He asked.

“Huh?” she gasped. His finger rubbed against her left ring finger as he spoke.

“I.” She gasped. “Oh,” she looked at her hand and smiled. “I still get to be the life of your party right?”

He flashed an instant huge grin. “Baby, you have always, been the life of my party.” Jim promised. “I love you Trixie.” He added seriously. “I couldn’t stand it last night in my room alone. I picked up that phone a dozen times to call you and beg you to come over to my house.”

“Oh.” She blushed slightly as she looked over at him. “I probably did the exact same thing but I kept stopping because I wasn’t sure how your wife would react to that and how much you really wanted me to upset that.”

“Good lord girl.” Jim gasped. Jim fished his cell phone out of his pocket and searched for a number. “Listen to what I plan to say to her.”

“But, I can be quiet about that if you wanted me two.” She gasped.

“I don’t want you to be quiet about that.” Jim answered. “I want you to help me get her off my back that is what I want. Gosh girl, I would never ask you to be my mistress like that. You are worth far more for that.”

He clicked send and waited for the person on the other end to pick up.

“Jim, I thought you were missing forever.” A loud female voice almost shouted.

“Hi Ronnie,” Jim answered. “No, I am not missing forever. We were rescued from our wilderness home last night. I am sure you’ve heard the news by now.”

“Yes, it’s been broadcasted here.” She answered. “I’ve missed you.”

“Well, something’s got to give.” Jim said soberly. “We aren’t really married. This is a huge joke. I want an uncontested divorce.”

“Say what, but the DNA test results are back.”

“I know that part, but I fell in love with my best friend after that jet crash. We spent a long time together and I once promised to help you out but things changed. You should do me a favor and let me out. After all you aren’t even living in American anymore.”

Silence was on the other end.

“Okay, my father won’t let me live in America anyway now.” She said slowly. “He found out about my being in Vegas. I have been grounded to the hacienda forever.”

“What?” Jim gasped.

Trixie’s jaw dropped.

“What, do you mean you’ve been grounded? You are a 21 year old woman. He can’t ground you?” Jim answered.

“You have no idea I -.”

“Is my daughter safe?” Jim asked.

“Si, but you not safe,” She answered. “You want divorce he kill you for it. I not hate you Jim please.”

“Oh, my god,” Trixie gasped when the phone went dead.

“Ronnie.” Jim shouted.

“She sounds severely abused.”  Trixie said soberly.

“What should we do?” Jim asked.

“I think we should tell this to Mike.” Trixie opened up the car door and got back out catching Mike at his car’s side.

“We just spoke to Ronnie,” Trixie said. “Jim told her he wanted a divorce and her reaction was so bizarre we are seriously worried for her safety.”

Jim quickly explained.

“Okay, don’t panic. It is likely that she knows how to calculate things her way enough to get the most from her target.” Mike said sympathetically.

“I don’t know, I mean, she was always scared of her father finding her. My daughter is down there.” Jim appealed to his sense of reason.

“I’d consider hiring a couple mercenaries to go get them free of him.” Mike whispered.

He pulled his wallet out of his pocket and fished through some cards then he handed one to Jim. “Call this guy, tell him Mike sent you. That’s my brother he’ll know what to do.”

“What does he do?”

“He’s x-Navy Seals.” Trixie looked away from Mike to explain. “His name is Brad I know him. Mike sent me to him once during a mystery that I was involved in.”

“Take care Trixie,” Mike answered. “I’ll give the best advice I can as things develop but for now talk to Brad.”

“Thanks,” Trixie nodded.

Jim and Trixie walked away from Mike and headed back to Jim’s car.

“I don’t know what to do?” Jim groaned. “I have to get my daughter.”

“I am inclined to think you have to get Ronnie two.” Trixie shook her head.

“But Trixie I don’t want to be.”

“So you don’t stay married. You still owe it to her to help her.” Trixie pointed out.

“You are right I do.” Jim agreed.

“I am calling my dad first then I’ll call this mercenary.”

“Okay,” Trixie nodded.

After ten minutes on the phone to Matthew, Jim hung up the phone and called Brad because Matthew wanted to know what the mercenary would say.

Jim explained the details.

“Okay, I was just completing a call from Mike anyway about this subject.” Brad answered. “I think I know whom you are referring to however Veronica’s father is a very dangerous man. If we go down there we’ll have to make a military cue out of it I am not opposed to doing that however I couldn’t guarantee the safety of the baby. It is my suggestion that you try and negotiate first before we decide on military action. Is Trixie with you?”

“Yes sir.” Jim answered.

“May, I speak with her?”

“Sure.” Jim handed Trixie the phone

“Hi,” Trixie said nervously.

“You’re in another pickle I see.” He said with a friendly flirt.

“Oh, I didn’t chase after this sir.” She answered with a sigh.

“I realize that.” Brad laughed. “I am glad to hear that you were rescued, I’ve been in touch with Honey and Dan a couple times regarding your status. I’ve missed you.”

“Honey’s told me already.” Trixie felt her stomach churn. She turned Brad down for a relationship only because she felt his presence a danger to her future, his life as a mercenary was very dangerous. During the time she was in his protection they had a short affair.

“I’ll be stopping by in a day or two to see how you are. Mike told me you were two months pregnant?” He waited for her answer.

“Yes time flies, when you are stranded.” She managed a smile.

“True, are you sure it’s not three months or more?” he asked loudly enough that Jim could hear his voice through the speaker on his phone.

“Oh, yes I think so, but they will know more once the ultra sound is completed.”

“Okay, when does that happen?” Brad answered.

“When you are 12 weeks, I have another appointment in 3 weeks to run that test then.”

“Okay,” He said rather sadly.

“I am really worried about Jim’s baby.” She changed the subject.

“I don’t blame you I am worried about it myself. I am going to take a trip down there to size up the problem even if we don’t do anything. I don’t take it likely when babies are threatened.”

“I don’t either.” Trixie agreed, just before he said goodbye and he’d talk more later.

“I get the feeling that affair was with this Brad guy over that Mike guy?” Jim said soberly.

“They are identical twins.” Trixie answered. “He knew I was scared of how dangerous he was. I wonder if Mike didn’t let him pretend to be him for a while.”

“Oh man.” Jim gasped.

Trixie looked over at him and giggled loudly. “I am only thinking out loud you are taking that two literal. He doesn’t have a weird obsession or something. Even if they were quietly tricking me like that I am sure once I say I found someone else it will be over, don’t worry.”

“How did you meet him again?” Jim asked.

“It was last summer Honey and I went to Jamaica for vacation after graduation, we got caught up in his investigation and he ended up rescuing us from the clutches of a drug dealers cue.”

“Man Trix.” Jim groaned.

“Jim, you stopped showing me attention like that, I am not dead I want to be loved just as much as the next woman.” She said soberly.

“I am sorry.” He sighed. “I guess I am feeling a bit insecure that is scary. Marry me please.”

“I was feeling very insecure when I started that affair. I mean it was after I heard that you were married. You never wanted to break that news to me, I couldn’t figure you out. I eventually thought that you were the type of guy that would want a wife in one port and an affair in another. Most rich guys do that. I wasn’t going to go for that but then I missed my best friend so badly that when you asked for me to go with you to that ball game I should have said no but then I wanted so badly to talk to you about her.”

“No, Trixie that isn’t what I wanted at all.” Jim teared up. “I’ve spent an entire year trying to figure out how to get out of that without hurting Ronnie and without hurting her unborn child. Now the child is born and it’s mine that is even worse but should I have to stay in a loveless marriage?”

“No, you shouldn’t have to, but what if it is for the best for the child?” She asked.

“I’ll figure that out as we go,” Jim answered. “I don’t want to end up a trapped man in a Mexican prison because I married a Mexican princess.” He added. “She mentioned something to me once about his being involved in a Tijuana animal shows I mean not personally involved but he’s the owner of the shows. She told me once that if she did anything bad he would threaten to make her his next star of an animal show that would mean she’d be the next donkey or horse girl. They do disgusting things in those shows it’s not cool. People want to watch that so bad that they pay big bucks to see those shows. I was horrified when I found out that was what she was running from. I ran from a lot from my stepfather but it was never that bad. But it has made me acutely aware of how horrible life on your own can be.”

“That is completely gross.” Trixie gasped.

“I know.” Jim groaned.

“Oh no, they don’t that will be over my dead body. We’ll get them both away from that.” Trixie added firmly.

“I am calling Brad.” Trixie added firmly.

“Relax, my dad is no one to mess with Babe Matthew would send an army I am sure he knows that.”

“Well, still what if I become a target only because we are engaged now I am pregnant being forced to take a horse would kill a baby I am sure of that.” Trixie asked. “I want Brad to have the heads up.”

“Okay,” Jim nodded agreeing with her.

Trixie said Brad the minute he answered. “Hey, we got more developments going on that is worrying me,” She explained what Jim learned.

“I already learned the same thing.” Brad answered. “I am arriving in Sleepyside within the next two hours we are going to prepare for war. Matthew Wheeler just hired me, he’s sending a limousine by for me when I get there, go to the Manor and wait for me Baby, take this serious.”

“I already am.” She agreed  “We are pulling into the Manor’s drive way as we speak.:

“Good that makes me feel a bit safer stay where there is security.”

Trixie and Jim hurried through the windy walk toward the Manor only to be met by Miss Trask so worried she was winging her hands.

“I have been trying to contact your father Jim.”

“What is the matter?” Jim looked instantly alarmed by her worried response.

“It is Honey she’s been taken through force She went out to get the mail like she does every day when she didn’t return I got worried so I checked the camera’s on the front gate someone pulled up in a truck and threw her into it. I was about to call the police when they called and said she’d die if we contacted the police. They want 10 million dollars for her return. “Oh why couldn’t Mr or Mrs. Wheeler be home right now.” She started to cry.

“How long do we have to get this money?” Jim asked.

“Just two days.” Miss Trask answered.

“We shouldn’t negotiate with kidnappers.” Trixie said to Jim.

“I am aware of that.” Jim answered. “I am not watching my sister die.”

“Your father would offer a 20 million dollar reward for her safe return.” Miss Trask said soberly.

“I know he’s done that before.” Jim answered. “I think that just makes people pretend to be heroes. She’s been kidnapped yet again.”

“So what should we do?”

“I say send a solid message that no one is getting paid ever.” Trixie answered.

“I can’t do that they might kill her.” Jim shook his head no.

“We’ll send another message.” Bill Regan hurried through the house up to them. “I just got in contact with your father he is returning home immediately anyway on other business but this has to take precedence. He said he won’t negotiate he said he’s hiring a mercenary as many as it takes to get the men responsible he thinks this might be Rodriquez Sanchez testing him to see how powerful he might really be before he does something stupid with his grandchild.”

“Oh man,” Jim groaned.

“We are getting her back Jim. Dan happened to be out there horseback riding when it happened he’s tracking that truck as we speak.”

“He is?” Trixie gasped.

“Oh hell yes he and Tad Webster are organizing a major cue right to this guy’s front door.”

“Where are they I am going two.” Jim said loudly. “If this is Rodriquez I want him to know I am not putting up with this anymore than my father is.”

Regan handed him the phone he had in his hand. Trixie was really worried when Jim grabbed several guns and belts full of bullets that he strapped over his shoulders. Regan did the same right next to him.

Please Jim don’t get killed.” Trixie cried

“We have bullet proof vests on.” Regan smiled at her worried look.

“Still be careful.” Trixie cried.

“You promise me you’ll stay here.” Jim paused to kiss her mouth hard. “Take care of my son now.” he added.

She nodded promising to stay. “I’ll send Brad your way as soon as he gets here.”

“I love you.” Jim declared as he handed her a ring case. “I wish I had more time to be romantic with that but just in case I can’t get back I want you to have it.”

“Oh,” Trixie looked down at it and started to cry. “I am not opening it until you return.” She said loudly.

“I love you Trix.” Jim called back over his shoulder.

“Jim, I love you two.” She shouted.

Miss Trask just hugged her tightly stopping her from following Jim.

“I know it scares you but let him go, your baby deserves safety.”

Trixie burst into heartbreaking tears. Miss Trask was right but this would mark the first time in her history that she didn’t hurry after her friends when there was danger.

“Baby, you are the bravest girl I have ever met but stop proving that.” Mrs. Wheeler said as she suddenly hurried to her side.

“Keep her here.” Mr. Wheeler warned the others. He was hurrying after Jim and Regan.

Brad pointed at her “I’ll kick your ass if you follow me now.” He warned.

“She’s my best friend Bradley.” Trixie warned. “If you don’t get them now I’ll be following them later.”

“I am getting them.” He assured her.

Trixie sat in the dining room where the FBI headquarters was quickly set up so professionals could try and negotiate for her release.

“We got gunfire.” Someone announced loudly.

“What?” Trixie perked up, giving her attention to the man with the headset on his ears.

“Who the hell is that?”

“We got a mercenary in the field.” Matthew said loudly. “You guys can sit on your duff all day as far as I am concerned I am getting my daughter back immediately.”

“What that isn’t legal you have.”

“I have to what?” Matthew shouted. “I’ll show you what is legal. She’s been kidnapped 5 times in her lifetime playing things your way is not helping make it stop. That girl is a spitfire she will rescue herself and she has before I might add.