Day 3.
Jack had to admit that he hadn't been on edge this much when dealing with a case in a long time. But to be fair, he never took on many bodyguard protective services like this before either. He couldn't get the image of Seymour out of his mind - the pure hatred and evil in his eyes. As the case will grow deeper into learning and trying to understand this villain, he knew why Mia was so afraid of him. Mia. Even though it has only been two short days with her, tensions were growing between them. Not only that but closeness as well. It was quite some time he had been with or near another woman and now ever since last night, he knew he had to keep some distance from her before his judgment and professionalism could be in jeopardy. Jack had just finished getting dressed just after 7:30 that morning and was making coffee while Mia was still in the bedroom. He hadn't seen her since last night and knew best to let her rest. Max had requested his presence at the precinct for 9:00 am and knew that as long as Mia did as she was told and stayed in the safe house for today, then hopefully they could have a normal day to clear their heads and find a lead to Seymour.
Ring, ring, ring
His phone began to vibrate on the kitchen counter. Who could be calling this early, was his first thought while picking it up and looking at the screen for it to display a private number. "Hello? Keller speaking."
"Why you ass!" Came a perky female voice through the speaker. "I just heard your back in town and didn't think to call and tell me!?"
Her tone made him chuckle, "Good morning to you as well, sis. How did you know I was back in town?"
"Always was an early bird as well. You can't hide anything from your big sis, Jack. Ha, ha. But no, I spoke to Uncle Max yesterday after I saw you on the news."
"What!? What do you mean I was on the news? Caitlin?"
"About the attack at the Simmons residence last night. You guys made the headlines! Uncle Max told me that's why you're back in town. You're with Mia Simmons?"
"This is going to cause a lot of unneeded attention..."
"Listen, I don't want to take up too much if your time, I just wanted to hear your voice. I haven't spoken to you in so long."
"I know, I'm sorry sis."
"Hey, can you meet me for lunch? So we can catch up for a bit? Please?"
Jack sure could use some off time and see a familiar face. With Mia safely staying put, perhaps it would be good for him. "Actually you know what? That sounds great."
"Great! I'll text you a time and place. See you in a few hours, Jack."
Over the years, Jack did have some regrets and hardships. His sister Caitlin was one of them for never keeping in much contact with her. After what had happened to their family when they were younger, he really should have. Perhaps now that he was back in New York, he could get back some lost time and earn some closure. Time would tell.
******
After making the coffee run for everyone, Jack entered the precinct and made his way to the briefing room where everyone was already waiting and in discussions on their next moves on the case. "So now we have the added pressure of the press creeping down our throats with this investigation." Max began, throwing the morning newspaper down on the table.
"I'm sure it was inevitable since we are dealing with the family members of Simmons Media." Liam jumped into the conversation. "And our suspect Kyle isn't speaking anymore in holding. We need some new leads of what Seymour might be up to, aside from the obvious that he is now trying to get close to Ms. Simmons."
Jack took his seat and began to listen in.
"I'm sure something will come along soon. We have investigators checking in with all our available sources. We caught Kyle on the first day and yesterday the other four show up - although we weren't able to identify them." Lieutenant Ryan added.
"They will show themselves." Max cut in. "What we need to concern ourselves with now is Norman Simmons's conference event at the Plaza Hotel tomorrow night. His daughter will be accompanying him to this event as it will be filled with high end investors and reporters for Simmons Insurance. We need to be prepared in case Seymour decides to drop in on the party."
"Wait, party?" Jack asked, looking over at Max. "Just what kind of party?"
"The kind of party where you'll be required to wear a suit and tie and escort Ms. Simmons as...well... her date—if you wish to call it. You can't go there looking like a cop. This was all in the itinerary in the reports I gave you on Friday."
Oh boy, was his first thought. Just when he had just told himself to try and distance himself from Mia, he now has to accompany her as her date to a high end formal party event hosted by her father. It would no doubt be awkward for them given how things went last night. Perhaps when he returned to the safe house later today, they could sit and talk. "Sorry Uncle. I've been a little preoccupied the last two days being shot at to have a chance to look over all the files. I'll go over everything this afternoon."
"Well don't fall behind on your assignment details. And in this room it's Chief." There was then a short pause of silence through the room before he continued. "Moving on…this is a big event so security has to be tight. It will be hosted in the Grand Ballroom so we are expecting to be on guard through the dinner, dancing, and of course Mr. Norman's speeches. The expected guest list is around 300."
"Do you suppose Seymour might slip by the security and crash the party?" Tylor asked, looking over at Max. "Especially after last night, he must know that this event will be heavily guarded.
"If Harmon himself won't show, his assailants might. Since we don't have any confirmation on their identities all precautions and security checks will go as planned. All of you better be in your best suits for the event." Max replied and then looked over at Jack. "And on your best behavior."
"Why is that supposition pointed at me? If anything I—" Jack began to speak but then was interrupted to his phone beginning to ring. Pulling it out of his pocket quickly, he looked at the screen to see Blocked Number. Odd. He never received phone calls from blocked numbers before. Although his sister had called him through a private number, could there be a chance it was important? Deciding to answer it quickly, he pressed the call button and placed the phone up against his ear. "Agent Keller here."
"Hello. Jack Keller." Came an eerie voice. "Glad we can finally chat."
His voice sounded like he was mocking him. It was low and calm, no background sounds at all. Jack cleared his throat, looking over at Max. "How did you get this number? Is this…"
"For an Agent, it wasn't difficult at all to obtain your personal files."
"Seymour Harmon."
At this point, everyone in the room all had their eyes on Jack, including Max who stood up and instructed Ryan to get the equipment to trace the call.
"Although you have quite the unfortunate personal life, I must say for such a young agent, you have an accomplishing record. I can see why the NYPD hired you." There was a pause when Jack didn't respond to his statement, then continued. "I was rather disappointed that bullet to your chest didn't put you out of your misery last night. You interrupted our reunion."
"You don't scare me, Seymour. And you will not get your hands on Mia again. I swear on my life that you will be brought to justice."
"Oh my, Mia, and not Ms. Simmons? Very bold of you as an officer to call her by her first name so casually. I better not see your hands on my girl. I will not allow anyone to come between us. Step down or I will kill you, Keller. Heed my warning." Seymour finished then ended the call.
"Dammit." Jack cursed, placing the phone down on the table and looked at Max. "Well, the creep now has my number and knows all about me."
"What did he say!?" Liam exclaimed.
"Empty threats. Quit or die. Criminals like to keep it simple." Jack replied, returning to his seat. "Looks like we have a good motive that he is for sure after Mia."
"I will run this by Captain Ford in our next meeting. You should get back to Ms. Simmons. Best to stay indoors for now." Max then finished, standing up and grabbing a cigarette out of his pack and left the room. As everyone began to pack up their folders and belongings, Jack too stood up and began to head out to catch up with Max, which didn't take too long considering he only stepped outside the building to continue his smoke. He stood beside his uncle, watching him stare out at his surroundings in front of him. "Is there anything I can help you with, kid?"
"You were never much of a talker." Jack replied, crossing his arms over his chest.
"Not much to say these days." He replied, taking another inhale from his cigarette. "But you know how that runs in the family."
"Yes, I suppose so. Caitlin called me this morning. Wants to see me. You two keep in touch?"
"That sister of yours calls me every week to say hi. She certainly doesn't run out of things to talk about. But it's nice to hear from her. Not much family to talk to anymore." Max then looked over at Jack. "I know you must not be thrilled being back in New York. Let's try to finish this case in good time. Then you can go back to Seattle." Jack didn't reply. He knew that there was a lot of history within his family that ended on bad terms and maybe now might be a better time than never to get in touch and ease his mind. Everyone always wishes their lives could be different in some aspect or another, and repairing lost relationships didn't seem like a bad idea now that he was back home. Even though the case will undoubtedly occupy most of his time, he had to make an effort. After a few moments of silence, Max then threw his cigarette bud on the ground and stepped on it. "Also, we don't want any complications within the Simmons family so make sure there isn't any inappropriate conduct."
"Inappropriate conduct? Why would you think -?"
"She is to be addressed as Ms. Simmons at all times and not by her first name. Any inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated so make sure you focus on your duties in ensuring her safety." Max finished then began to walk off to his car. Sure, he's only known Mia for two short days and admitted they were both very infusing days he's had in a long time.
But was he planning on developing feelings for this young woman? No of course not. He was doing a job. There wasn't time in his life for any romance. Max had a valid point to keep matters in a professional state with her. Yet, even though he knew all of this, he wondered what could Mia be thinking and experiencing? Last night... was very different and knew the vibe was not casual. Their kiss... Was she just feeling vulnerable or perhaps something more towards him? Holding her in his arms did feel nice, and she did show no signs of pulling away until he did. There were some fixed feelings there for sure. Jack knew in order to keep his mind clear and focused, he had to do the right thing and keep professional.
*******
Once he finished his paperwork, it wasn't long till he got a text from Caitlin on where to meet for lunch. He hadn't seen his sister in a few years and was surprised by the location she had chosen, the Soho area of Manhattan. Known for luxury for sure, they had agreed to meet an Italian restaurant called Aurora SoHo, rustic Italian food in a Tuscan-countryside setting. Arriving there just before noon, he parked and saw his sister waiting outside the building.
Her face lit up at the sight of him and immediately walked over and embraced. "Jack! It's been too long."
"It's good to see you too, sis." He replied as he pulled away and noticed a very recognizable bump below. "Is that..?"
"Yep. You're looking at a very married and pregnant sister! You're going to have a niece in 3 months, 'Uncle Jack.'"
"That's wonderful news, Caitlin. Congratulations."
"Thank you. Let's go inside and eat?"
After ordering their drinks and meals, the two sat there looking at one another, Jack could tell his sister was pleased to finally see him once again. "So look at you now, Mr. Agent. You've come a long way. I'm proud of you." Caitlin began, smiling.
"Thanks, you as well. When did all this happen? How you been?"
"Well, Gregory and I have been together for five years now. Married almost two years ago. And now we have our first little one on the way. Time sure flies by quickly."
"It does. I'm... I'm sorry I was never around much. Wasn't there for the wedding or anything really." Jack looked sad when he spoke those words. Family was always important to him, yet ever since graduating from high school, he knew he had drifted apart from the only few family members he had left.
"It's okay, Jack. Really. You're here now. I don't know what you've had to go through these past eight years but I hope you can allow yourself to move on. I know you've been through a lot."
"Let's not talk about that. This should be a happy moment. You've been doing great Caitlin and it makes me happy to see you happy. How has work been?" He quickly wanted to change the subject, to talk about happier topics on their lives instead of dwelling on the past.
"Busy as usual. Working in the Supreme Court is never short of work."
"Looks like we both did well for ourselves career wise. You as well for family life."
"You will too, brother. So what is going on with this case of yours? Max said he specifically requested you to work it. He didn't tell me much, of course. The Simmons family is a powerful insurance company. I've heard of this Seymour guy on the news. Very dangerous, I just want you to be okay." When Jack didn't reply, Caitlin smiled. "That Mia girl you're protecting is quite beautiful."
"Ugh, Caitlin. She is my client. Nothing more." He felt flushed while looking at his sister who was undoubtedly trying to get him to open up.
"Whoa, you seemed to have defended that pretty fast." She chuckled.
"It's not like that. I mean... well, yes she's attractive I suppose, but, well - we've only known each other for two days."
"Jack, I was just teasing to get you to smile. Is something wrong?"
"You're my sister, I suppose you can keep this confidential but... we have had some rather awkward run-ins so far in this investigation. I'm not sure how she feels about me - I mean, sometimes I wonder why Max entrusted me with this assignment."
"I'm sure he had his reasons. Maybe you can relate to this woman on a different level than a normal agent? Figure out the motives better to catch the criminal. But I've read up on her before, she seems like a wonderful intelligent woman. Sometimes fate has a funny way of showing us something special right in front of us."
His sister was always more mindful of romance then he was. But also knew how smart she had always been - and growing up knowing how right she was most of the time as well. Regardless of what was there, he was doing a job and like he was telling himself earlier, it had to be kept professional. By the time he was done thinking about all of this, their food had arrived, delicious arrangements of pasta, seafood, and salad.
"Let's eat!" She was always a cheerful one, and as they sat there talking about their lives, interests, and current events, Jack was happy he was able to get out and see her again. She had a glow to her, she was happy in life and Jack had much respect for her for that. Once they were finished, he walked her over to her vehicle. However before she stepped in, she opened her trunk and lifted out a locked black box. He knew exactly what that box was, although it had been close to 15 years since he last seen it. "This belongs to you now, Jack. Dad would have wanted you to have it."
"Dad's belongings." He was hesitant to accept the box at first but knew that Caitlin had been holding onto it for a long time now. Finally accepting it, he looked at her. "Thank you."
"Take your time. You don't have to open it right away." She then pulled him in for a quick hug. "Take care of yourself, okay? And don't be a stranger! Little Lindsay will want to meet her uncle in three months."
"Lindsay?" He smiled. "That was mom's name."
"It's fitting." She smiled back. "Okay well better get going now. Talk to you soon!"
Jack watched as Caitlin drove off out of the parking lot and down the street heading back home. When he returned to his car, he placed the box in the back seat then took his seat and started the car. Looking at his watch it was 2:13 pm. It was time to head back to the safe house. Mia had been alone for a few hours and hoped that once he returned, they could have a normal civil conversation to relieve them of the tension of last night.
Arriving back at the safe house, Jack stood outside the apartment door and took in a deep breath while holding the box Caitlin had given him. There was no telling what was going to happen or what they were going to say to one another. Admitting it completely, he was rather nervous to face her; but he couldn't avoid her forever. Entering, he stepped through the doorway and walked in, closing and locking the door behind him. Mia looked up from the couch where she was sitting reading one of her textbooks studying when she glanced over his way to see him return the look.
"Welcome back." She began, her voice soft and mellow as she placed her book down beside her.
"I'm sorry I was away for longer than expected. I had to run a few errands. Is everything okay?" Were his first words to her as he walked over to the dining table and placed the box down. Looking back over at her, he saw her nod her head. "How are you feeling?"
"About yesterday's shooting or us last night?" Her question was spoken straightforward and boldly. She watched as he didn't reply right away then walk over and took a seat on the couch across from her. "We should talk about it."
"Yes, I agree." He finally replied, taking in a deep breath. "I would like to apologize for my behavior, it wasn't my intention to cause any uncomfortably between us. If you wish to have me replaced for my inappropriate behavior I will understand."
"Replacement? I wasn't thinking of any such decision like that." She smiled at him. "I think we may have started this arrangement on a rather tangled set of emotions. My actions were susceptible and I apologize for that. I know you are here to protect me and I wouldn't want to make our relationship estranged because of that. I hope we can move forward with a normal client-agent professional arrangement."
"Of course, my actions will be from here on out will be clearly professional." Jack spoke. Before she began to look away, he saw a hint of anguish in her eyes, which made him begin to think of unquestionable thoughts. The words his sister spoke to him earlier crossed his mind. Sometimes fate has a funny way of showing us something special right in front of us. Even so, it was not the time, place or even right judgment to continue thinking of these thoughts. He had made that clear to himself. It was time to continue on with the investigation. "Well, now that is sorted out... perhaps I can ask some questions about the investigation? I know speaking of Seymour Harmon is rather uncomfortable and difficult, but perhaps it may help us his motives."
Mia then looked back at him and nodded. "I suppose it all happened two years ago. We had met at NYU so I was under the impression that he was a normal person. He was also under an alias name of Seymour Griffin, which would explain why I didn't know or suspect any of the Harmon family histories. He was kind and caring and we got along quite well and began dating rather quickly. When he spoke of his father passing away last year...he changed. He became angry... never directed at me at first but once I slowly began to distance myself from him that is when a lot changed." She then paused for a moment to regain her thoughts. Jack could see her expression that it was difficult for her to tell him these things.
"Take your time, Mia."
"I suggested to him to seek counseling. I wanted to help him, I wanted to see his smile again. But my efforts were ineffective. Perhaps he was always into criminal activity while we were together. I never knew much of his personal life. But that day I told him to seek help... he snapped...all I could remember was waking up in the hospital. My body ached from being beaten and bruised. My father was at my side and I remember that day... he told me who he really was. There was no Seymour Griffin attending NYU. I was being used so that he could get close to my father's company." With another pause, Mia then wiped away a lonely tear that had escaped from her eye and looked back at Jack once more. "When I recovered, I told my father that I was going to see him once last time to end it. He advised me from doing so but I was so blinded by my feelings for him still that I felt the need to tell him in person and wanted to know why he betrayed me... I should have listened to my father... I should have... when I told Seymour everything... he... he raped me... and stole my virginity."
Jack was at a loss for words. This man was truly a monster. He tore Mia apart, physically and mentally. No one ever deserves to be treated by such a low life. He looked over at her and saw she was fighting to hold back her tears. It was then Jack then stood up and walked over, sitting down next to her. "Mia. I am sorry this happened to you. Truly. Thank you for telling me all of this, I know it's not easy. I promise I will do whatever it takes to keep you safe and bring him to justice."
"Thank you, Jack. I know you will."