|
|||||||
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|||||||
|
|||||||
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|||||||
Showcase - Times Past, 1972: Animal Man
When Trouble Comes a CallingWork had been complicated and draining for both Ellen and Buddy, and both figured that a little time for them selves was in order. What with the stunt work Buddy had been doing the last few weeks and the fact that she was teaching children, plus raising their own little kids Cliff and Maxine. It was the last day of filming for the movie The Godfather, being made by Paramount. Buddy quickly going to his trailer changed his clothing and just as fast stopped by the cash office to retrieve his paycheck for the movie. He exchanged pleasantries with the young blond girl who was working there while he waited for her to find it in a large stack from within a large floor to ceiling safe.
When he had received his pay Buddy briskly walked over to the 1971 red Ford Pinto that he and Ellen had purchased as a Christmas gift to each other last year, and even now it didn't have too many extra miles on the dash. Normally he would have drove his old Bonneville which he had owned since he had first started working for M.G.M as a stuntman. Yet earlier this morning the battery had decided to play dead and Ellen had took the day off promising to get the battery replaced. He had met Ellen back in 65 when she first started working at M.G.M as a movie lot teacher for the many child actors the movie lot had. At that time he was the stunt man on the movie Dr. Zhivago but that's another story for another time.
As he drove off of the M.G.M studio lots he fiddled with the radio dial till he was able to locate one of the local radio stations that played some classical music. As he was switching stations he stopped on one and heard the DJ speaking "This is Sammy Jackson at KLAC and I've got this late breaking news…" The DJ continued to speak talking about a number of wrecks that had been reported and offering other routes for people driving to try and either avoid or simply drive around. While Buddy continued to listen to the station he headed towards the suburbs where he and Ellen had been able to find a house they could afford.
A drive that should have taken him merely an hour to make ended up taken nearly three because of all the wrecks and traffic jams caused by the wrecks, he really couldn't complain it really had been a great day. As he pulled up into the driveway he scanned the area nearby the house before he placed the car into park. Reaching over he opened the glove box and pulled out a little envelope, which held two airplane tickets, a trip with a surprise destination that they had been talking about.
When he opened the door to his small suburban house he was greeted at the door by his wife Ellen She was a slender looking woman with red hair and deep blue eyes. She was wearing a bright yellow dress that just came below her knees and flat hill shoes to match. She lightly kissed Buddy on the cheek as she handed his little baby girl Maxine to him saying, "Did you have a lot of trouble getting home today?"
Taking his little girl into his arms, Maxine made little cooing noises as he followed Ellen into the living room and begin to tell her about all the wrecks along with his day at the movie set. As he continued to bounce Maxine on his knee, his four-year-old son Cliff came waddling into the living room and quickly ran to Buddy and hugged his free leg.
"Dada" Cliff said over and over as he continued to hug Buddy's leg.
Buddy shifted slightly and taking his free hand he ruffled Cliff's hair as Ellen sat in a blue and green lounge chair smiling at him. After a few moments of playing with his kids Buddy turned to Ellen saying, "Hon if you will take little Maxine here I've got a surprise for you."
Ellen didn't have to be asked twice and like that she had Maxine in her arms.
Buddy without saying a word picked up Cliff with his left hand as he reached into the inside pocket of his jacket and pulled out the little packet with the two tickets. "I got them hon. Two tickets for our special time alone." He said smiling at Ellen.
Ellen's eyes opened wide and she let out a little squeal that for a second shocked little Maxine who joined in. "That's great Buddy. You know how much mom and dad have been at us to let them keep Cliff and Maxine." Buddy nodded his smile never leaving his face. "So where we going honey?" she asked as excited as a little schoolgirl.
"Now Angel. You know it's a surprise so I can't tell you." He said slipping the packet back into the inside pocket of the jacket.
***
Between the two of them they had loaded up the Ford Pinto and wrangled up Cliff and Maxine. The drive to Ellen's parents house wasn't very long but it felt like forever, traffic was packed and people were rushing everywhere weaving all along the interstate at high rates of speed. Still Buddy and Ellen were able to arrive under an hour and pulled up in front of a small ranch style house with light blue shutters and a gray trim. The yard was immaculately kept and the few trees spaced out evenly.
As Ellen got out of the passenger side of the Pinto the front door of the house opened and out stepped a gentleman in a pair of blue overalls. Standing beside him was a woman with light blond hair with a large smile. "Buddy, Ellen you've made it," said Ellen's mom.
Ellen quickly took a couple of bags from the back-seat of the Pinto while Buddy removed Maxine from her car seat and held her in his arms. As they started towards the front door Cliff ran toward his grandparents squealing as he ran. "The traffic was really bad out today. They keep letting crazy people have licenses these days." Ellen said in reply to her mom.
William (Ellen's dad) slowly picked up Cliff as Buddy and Ellen made their way to the front porch. "Slow down partner." He said as a smile broke across his face. "You two come on inside and sit for a while. I've got some snacks made." Said Gussie (Ellen's mom) as she turned and walked back into the house.
Buddy smiled as he entered the house and sat little Maxine into the crib sat against the back wall in the living room. "We would like to Gussie, but Ellen and I have a plane to catch really soon."
"Son how many times do I have to tell you? Call me mom." Gussie said in a mock strict voice.
"Mom." Ellen said "Buddy's right. We are kind of pressed for time. Sitting both bags down beside a brown and green plaid couch.
Gussie started to complain when William spoke up saving both Buddy and Ellen both ears full. "Now honey you know they would if they could. Wouldn't you kids?" he added being a little playful to lighten the mood a little.
Ellen smiled "We sure would dad, I just know how much you and Buddy love to talk about movie." She said as she walked over and gave her father a large hug.
Gussie's face frowned up for a moment as if she was going to cry and then broke out in a rather large smile as she hurried over and quickly hugged both her daughter and husband. "Oh dear I know you would. You to go and have a great time." Kissing Ellen's cheek as she let go.
Buddy glanced at his watch," Honey we need to hurry the plane leave in a hour and you know what the traffics been like. Thanks for understanding Guss…I mean mom." Buddy said before shaking Williams hand. "We'll be sure to send some post cards."
"Have fun you to." William said as he walked over and slipped and arm around Gussie.
With that both Ellen and Buddy quickly walked back to the Ford Pinto and entered the car. Buddy slowly backed out of the driveway and within seconds they were back onto the interstate.
Pigeon Forge Tennessee, standing right before welcome sign to Gatlinburg:
"Common Jake this will be quick and easy." Said a boy with sandy blond hair wearing a plaid shirt and bellbottom pants.
"I don't know Steve what if we get caught?" the boy called Jake asked his friend.
Steve looked at Jake as if he had grown a horn right out of his forehead, "Oh common. Ain't no one going to get caught. My brother's already cased the place and said it will be a cinch." The two youths had known each other from early childhood and had fast become friends.
Jake looked at the busy road for a moment with his hand upon his chin almost lost in thought. "Oh ok. If your bro's already in on it I guess I can't turn you done now can I?" he said with a lopsided grin.
Steve looked at his friend and knew he was with them. "Then lets get going I'm sure that Wally has some ideas on how to pull this off." Thinking to himself, `Yeah we pull this off and then there's nothing to stop us from making it to the big time.' A sly grin crossing his face
***
The drive to the airport had been uneventful and Buddy and Ellen arrived to check-in with plenty of time to spare. After checking in their luggage and then locating the terminal to their flight they went and grabbed a seat, waiting to board the plane. "Buddy are you sure you can't give me a hint to where we are going?" Ellen asked gently squeezing Buddy's flashing him a dazzling smile.
Buddy turned to look at Ellen and giving her a mischievous grin, "Now Ellen Honey… You know not to ask me." Shaking his head softly from side to side.
"But Buddy please…?" Ellen asked putting a little pouting face on for him.
While they continued to talk other people continued to stroll up and take seats, all waiting to board the plane. The intercom/speaker system of the terminal had been playing one of the local radio stations, which were being interrupted with both calls of arriving and departing flight numbers and other information.
Buddy tried to keep his calm as he really wanted to surprise Ellen with their destination yet even he was having a little bit of trouble as the last time they had been able to be alone had been their honeymoon and that had been more then four years ago. Taking a moment to look around at the people Buddy noticed that some of the people who had began sitting down were also beginning to stare at them, "Ok honey if I give you a clue will you let me surprise you?" he asked.
Squealing in delight Ellen said, "Oh yes..."quickly kissing Buddy totally ignorant to all the people who were around.
When Ellen had finally gave him a moment to catch his breath, "Honey I thought we could use a little us time in the mountains so we are going east." `That should calm her down.' Buddy thought to himself.
Ellen was gearing up to try and pry more information from Buddy when he had quickly placed his finger across his lips in a sign of quite and looked like he was trying hard to listen to something.
Across the intercom/speaker system on the radio a news bulletin was being read. "In sports the Reds and the Pirates are due to play the NLCS game tonight. In international news just off the wire it has been reported that Panama has adopted a constitution as to how that will affect things within the country is unknown at this time." The announcers voice went silent for a moment then returned, "Folks this news just in from NPR news it seems there has been a prison uprising at a Washington DC jail, details are vague at this time…please continue listening to this station for more information as it comes."
"Oh Buddy that sounds truly awful to hear." Ellen said as Buddy just sat there keeping his thoughts to himself.
Within seconds a woman entered the area and stood behind the booth beside the gate. "We think you for flying South Atlantic Airlines today and are preparing to have all passengers board. So would those with first class seating along with those who will require help boarding the plane please form a line here in front of me?" asked the blond haired blue eyed woman.
Out of the crowd of nearly 300 people only 32 had started to form a line as Buddy began to rise from his seat and gently pull Ellen to hers', "Honey that's us." He said as Ellen's mouth dropped open and her eyes flew open wide.
Within seconds they were on the airplane and after that those who had not been flying first class had began to board the plane. While they waited two stewardesses were walking around the cabin asking people if there was anything they required.
As they reached Buddy and Ellen the Captain's voice came over the intercom, "This is your captain speaking. We once again think-you all for flying South Atlantic Airlines none stop flight to Knoxville Tennessee. The weather is reported as to be a little ruff between here and there folks but we don't expect any problems. And as the tower has just given us the green light we are ready to take off. So please just sit back and enjoy the ride and please… leave the flying to us."
When Trouble Comes Calling Chapter Three
The flight from LA to Knoxville was a wild experience for Ellen as it was the first time she had ever flown first-class anywhere. The Stewardess had just made her third trip by as they wheeled the dinner cart by and began to lay out trays of fresh food in front of those in first-class. Buddy sat there and smiled at Ellen before pouring his dressing upon his salad and beginning to eat.
Ellen felt like a little girl from the experience and wasn't sure how to handle the treatment. She looked at her dish of pasta and slowly began to cut it into bite size pieces all the while looking this way and that, watching the other first-class passengers as they ate.
A few moments had gone by when once again he stewardess came by, "Is everything ok with your meal?" she asked Buddy and Ellen.
Taking a moment to wash down a bite of salad Buddy looked up at the young girl, "Yes its very nice, one of the best salads I've ever had." Ellen with her mouth full of pasta just nodded smiling. "Would either of you like to have any desert?" she said. "We have both peach and apple pie along with chocolate or vanilla ice-cream," adding just a little emphasis on her words.
Buddy just shook his head as he took a bite of his salad, then the stewardess when on to the next passenger in first-class.
During the flight Buddy continued to think about the even taking place at the Washington DC jail even though there wasn't anything he personally could do. Ellen picking up on how upset Buddy was tried to get him talking so she begin to once again try to bug him with questions about where they were going and why. She continued nearly the rest of the flight only taking a few moments to take glances from her window seat. Buddy never would tell her where they were going but moments as they were landing he decided that once they reached the hotel, that he was going to have to tell Ellen what had so bothered him.
The plane landed in Knoxville and slowly arrived at its terminal. Without much fanfare the passengers were quickly offloaded and directed towards where their baggage would be shortly found. Buddy and Ellen slowly walked through the airport looking from side to side at everything as people past them both coming and going to and from flights. After a few minuets they arrived at the baggage carrousel and grabbed their luggage as it arrived. Buddy never let go of Ellen's hand the whole time they were walking through the airport, and if it had not been for the Hertz rental car he figured that he would not have even let go. After loading the car Buddy took out the local map that he had been given and slowly left the airport heading toward Pigeon Forge.
Abandoned building just off the main strip in Pigeon Forge:
Three young boys were sitting around a table that looked like it had seen better days and was leaning to one side under all the weight the boys were causing. "So you two see… You're gonna be our watch out Steve, make sure that no fuzz show up before we are able to leave." His older brother Peter said. Peter was a muscular youth standing at seven feet tall. His hair was puffed out in a large Afro and he was wearing a black leather shirt and a pair of black bellbottom pants. Steve's only response was to nod at his older brother allowing him to continue.
"Jake you will be with me. We are going through the back entrance that old man Wilkerson uses to leave the store by." Peter grinned as he spoke.
Jake still wasn't completely sure of this whole thing; the thought of getting caught kept coming to mind even as both Peter and Steve continued to assure him otherwise. "Still guys if we get caught we could spend a long time behind bars. Why the scandal alone would destroy my family." He said trying to be the voice of reason.
Peter's face flushed red with anger at the younger man's words, "What are you Jake? Are you a man or are you a mama's boy? Dang Steve thought you were only friends with real men." Peter quickly said as his rage flowed.
"Now Peter, I'm not saying I ain't with you." Jake said in response, "Just trying to be extra careful." He quickly added.
Steve had listened to the exchange of words and for the first time in nearly a week he found his thoughts turning to family, `I know that Peter is all I've got left in the world, what with grandma now past on. I sure do miss her wisdom and understanding.' He was thinking as he heard Peter saying,
"Then it's agreed. Remember Steve you are to be the front watch and Jake will be with me while we strip the store bare." Peter's old grin once again coming back to his face as both boys agreed to his plans. "Great, then we meet here three days from tomorrow and then we leave this joke of a town behind us."
Peter stuck his hand on the middle of the table, soon both Steve and Jake had placed their own on top of Peter's, their agreement was made.
***
Pigeon Forge Tennessee hotel room:
Buddy continued to lie in bed next to his wife Ellen as she continued sleeping. They had arrived late the night before and even though they had been hungry both had decided on just retiring to bed. Shifting softly within the bed he glanced over at the clock and softly moaned. "Aught… it's nearly noon." He said to himself, Softly at first Buddy began to shake Ellen trying to wake her up. At first Ellen wasn't sure what was happening but quickly she came to her senses as Buddy turned on the radio on. Buddy continued listening to the local and national news listening for more information on the uprising at the Washington DC jail but it seemed that it had already lost its importance in the news so he shut off the radio. Buddy and Ellen began to enjoy their first day in Pigeon Forge by relaxing by the pool at the hotel and then wandered the main strip of town looking at the many shops.
They had just started to cross the street when Ellen stopped and ran towards one of the shops nearly pulling Buddy's arm out of socket. "Oh Buddy look what a quaint little jewelry store."
From the looks of it the store couldn't be too big as it only had one small wooden door and the displace window took up what was left of the front wall. Within the display at the window there was not a price tag to be seen and just eyeing a few pieces Buddy began thinking that a few of them would cost him at least a weeks pay or more.
"Can we go inside a take a look Buddy?" Ellen asked as she turned and looked at Buddy, the expression on her face almost pleading.
Buddy softly sighed as he looked Ellen in the eyes and knew that for her he would do anything she asked. "Sure honey," he said smiling, "nothings too good for my best girl." Just as they reached the front door an elderly man. He had thinning white hair and was wearing a blue three-piece suit with a bright orange tie. Old man Wilkerson was slowly locking his shop for the day, the same way he had for the last fifteen years. As he reached the back of the store he turned and looked towards the front and waved at the couple he could see standing at the front door. Smiling he turned and exited into the back of the store.
Buddy slipped his arm around Ellen and softly pulled her away from the store, "We will come back honey. I think there might be something in there with your name on it." He said smiling as they slowly crossed the street and started back towards their hotel.
They made it back to their hotel room around nine PM and the first thing Buddy did was turn on the news. Ellen looked at Buddy and had walked over to a round table in the room and had just picked up the phone dialing for the hotel operator.
Ellen was more then a little obvious to the news as she talked on the phone with the hotel's kitchen. "Yes we need two of your house salads one with ranch and one thousand islands, then a spaghetti dinner and the lasagna special." Looking at Buddy she said, "Do we want any…" Wine she had been going to ask, "Sssshhhhhh" was the only reply Buddy gave as he turned up the TV.
"At this time reports coming from the local jail are conflicting at best." The reporter was saying, "It is unknown at this time who gave the sheriffs guards a hand but the only thing that is known is that whom ever did it was wearing red."
Buddy just turned off the TV after that and slowly turned and walked over to Ellen taking the phone from her hand and spoke into it, "Yes we will need a bottle of Cabrera. No the price isn't a matter. Yes think you." Slowly he hung up the phone and smiled at his wife.
Ellen just continued to stand there like a deer in headlights, the shock of having been told to shush and then the phone taken from her was such a shock.
Buddy slipped his arms around his wife and smiling brightly softly kissed her lips nearly taking her breath away.
When their dinner arrived Buddy and Ellen were sitting in a pair of lawn chair on the balcony outside of their room, the sound of the radio could be heard in the background. They ate their dinner and shared small talk about what they had seen, Buddy asking if there were places Ellen wanted to return to again between bites of spaghetti or swallow of wine.
Ellen replied smiling at Buddy naming many of the different shops they had seen during the day but to his surprise she hadn't mentioned the jewelry store that had caught her eye that evening. Thinking to himself he decided that if she didn't say anything about it that he would save it and surprise her with something before they left for home.
After dinner the two of them spent the rest of the night as if it was their honeymoon ignoring all other sounds coming from the open slide glass door or the radio.
The next couple of days they returned to many of the stores Ellen had mentioned and even took the time to see a couple of shows from the local theaters, but not once did they arrive close to the jewelry store. Still they laughed and held hands almost like they were kids once again truly enjoying their vacation.
***
Earlier that morning before Ellen had awaken Buddy had slipped out of the bed they shared and had made his way down to the front desk of the hotel inquiring about the little jewelry store and had been informed that the man who ran it always closed at five but that if a person could arrive before he closed that sometimes a great deal could be made. It was with that information and the burning desire to surprise his wife that found Buddy and Ellen running down the sidewalk like a couple being chased Buddy determined that they would make it to the jewelry store on time.
At the same time three figures dressed in black fitting clothing could barely be seen in the darkening shadows behind the store. "Now you two remember the plan?" Peter asked as he looked at both Steve and Jake. Both whom just nodded in reply, "Good then in less then an hour we shall be one step closer to having it made" a large smile forming on his face.
After a few moments Peter motioned at Steve and then pointed at a tree across the way. Without replying he slowly walked over and took up his position watching the street in front of the store.
Steve wasn't completely sure of his older brothers plan but he also knew not to disobey, he thought to himself, `Peter is the oldest now and also the only family I've got. Can't fail him or I'm alone.'
Front of Wilkerson Jewelry store 4:45pm
Buddy ran to the front door of the jewelry store and quickly pushed open the front door, Ellen panting was quickly right behind him. Old man Wilkerson looked up from his desk behind the counter and looked at Buddy and Ellen as they entered his small store. "May I have you young people?" he asked slowly walking up towards the counter.
"Yes please, we would like to see some of your fine jewelry." Buddy said a grin forming on his face as he continued, "I'm surprising my wife here with something."
"Oh my. I had completely forgotten…" she said continuing to ramble on and on for a little bit more the shock of Buddy's actions this day totally shocking her.
"Then we can't be disappointing her now can we young man?" Old man Wilkerson said. "Allow me to just lock the front door and I think I know just the piece for her." He said a small grin on his face and a twinkle in his eyes. He so loved to see young couples that were so in love together, reminded him of his sweet departed wife Mandy.
He quickly yet nearly quietly closed and locked the front door to his shop and turned off the outside lights. Buddy had began to look into the many different display cases one at a time while Ellen quickly jumped from case to case almost like a child in a candy store.
Steve had seen the couple as they walked in front of Old man Wilkerson's store and ran inside and quickly took a glance at his watch and made a motion to his brother Peter.
"What has gotten into Steve, Peter?" Jake asked looking at the strange looking motions that he was making.
Peter at first didn't reply but took a quick glance at his watch and then made a few signals back to Steve. "Don't you worry none Jake, he's just informin us that old man Wilkerson isn't alone in his joint."
"Oh!" was all Jake could say in response, he didn't remember anything like this being mentioned by either of the brothers before.
Within the store Mr. Wilkerson walked over to one of the display cases and taking a ring of keys from his pocked began to open the back of the case softly nodding his head. "Yes…yes… yes. I do think I've just the thing within here for the young lady."
Both Ellen and Buddy walked over to the display case just as Mr. Wilkerson was pulling out a slender box and placed it on the case smiling at them. Very slowly Buddy reached out for the box and slowly opened it his eyes growing wide as he looked at the necklace within. "Mr. Wilkerson it's beautiful but I don't think we can honestly afford…" He began to say but was cut off by Mr. Wilkerson.
"None since my boy. I've a special sale going on this little piece here and only today its 75% off." He said as his smile continued to grow.
Ellen looked at the necklace and then over to Mr. Wilkerson the look on her eyes was saying it all for him, she was totally in love with it. "Wow." Was all she could say.
Buddy looked at the necklace and softly sat the box down before lifting it and softly placing it only Ellen's neck. As Buddy was working with the clasp Mr. Wilkerson quickly reached out and took hold of the box and began to nod. "It truly does suit her young man." He said as he pocketed the box and softly locked the display case. When Trouble Comes A Calling Chapter six
Rather quickly Buddy paid for the necklace, the price being much less then the original asking price, and said both their thanks and good-byes to Mr. Wilkerson who was smiling and waving at them as he locked the front door to his shop.
As Steve noticed the pair leave the jewelry store he gave a little whistle, "wheeze" and pointed to the building before stepping deeper into the already darkening shadows of his tree. "This is it!" hissed Peter as he pulled his ski mask over his face and started towards the back door to the jewelry store removing a crowbar from the pants leg of his black pants.
After calming his nerves Jake took a step towards the back door half mumbling a prayer as he two pulled on his ski mask, hoping that he wasn't making a mistake with his two friends.
With the skills that much practice takes Peter had the back door to the store popped open and was quickly heading inside the crowbar still tightly held within his left hand and a smile upon his hidden face.
Jake not wishing to be thought a coward moved quickly to enter the back of the store entering just in time to hear Mr. Wilkerson's voice raised in much anger.
"Who are you and what are you doing in my store, Get out!" he said pointing an aged finger at the masked man who had just came running from his storeroom.
Waving the crowbar menacingly Peter replied, "I'm the only one giving the orders around here old man. Now give me da keys or do I have to get ruff with you?"
Jake quickly entered the front of the store and walked over to stand beside Peter his knees shaking, he wasn't sure if it was from the adrenaline rush or fear and partly didn't care.
Mr. Wilkerson sneered at the two masked men in his shop and made a quick move for the phone on the counter just reaching it as the crowbar slammed into his side, knocking him to the ground cracking a rib and shattering his right wrist as he made contact with the hard wooden floor.
Peter noticed the phone on the counter and moved a fraction of a second faster then Mr. Wilkerson, "Wrong dam move pops." He said as he swung the crowbar at him contacting and sending him crashing into the floor, the sound of bones cracking bringing a wider smile to his face. Quickly kneeling he grabbed the keys at Mr. Wilkerson's side and tossed them to Jake, "Quickly, lets clean this trash joint out and get out of here."
Jake stood there watching as Peter clobbered Mr. Wilkerson, and then tossed the keys at him. Catching the keys Jake began to fumble with the keys trying to open the display cases, thinking to himself `why is there so many blasted keys here.' Noticed by none lying under the center display case was a wallet that had been dropped earlier by a rather happy customer just before he exited the store.
Just a block from Mr. Wilkerson's jewelry store Ellen softly whispered into Buddy's ear as she slipped her arm around him, "Honey where's your wallet?" knowing he always kept it in his right back pocket and not feeling it there.
Buddy stopped walking and replied, " Are you sure it's not there?" his own hand reaching back now to check and finding nothing he continued. "It must have fallen out somewhere along the way, Come on Angel and we will quickly search for it."
Within the jewelry store Jake had slowly began to open the display cases and was quickly trying to clean them out while Peter was watching the front of the store and from there the street beyond. Mr. Wilkerson had been moaning loudly trying to not move as the pain shooting through his body was unlike anything he had ever experienced before. Trying to silent the noise Peter quickly gagged Mr. Wilkerson with a piece of cloth before bringing the crowbar down across his head, the action had the desired results as Mr. Wilkerson silently slumped into unconsciousness.
As they slowly made their way back down the street Buddy said, "I bet I know what's happened Ellen honey. I bet I forgot it back at that nice old man's jewelry store." Ellen nodded her agreement as she lightly fingered the necklace that they had bought less then an hour ago. With purpose they headed back towards Mr. Wilkerson's jewelry store.
Unknown to both of them a pair of eyes had noticed their approach of the store. Steve was uncertain what to do, Peter hadn't come up with a plan to handle anyone beyond the police. So unsure what to do Steve continued watching the store.
Buddy was the first to notice the lights still on within the store and approached thinking, `I'll just knock on the door and ask to look for my wallet.' He thought to himself. Ellen tried to cover a nervous shiver that as she had, the feeling that they were being watched but couldn't really see anyone paying attention on the semi busy street. Buddy made his way to the front of the store and was just about to knock on the door when he noticed the two masked men within the store and Mr. Wilkerson lying on the floor of his shop. Quietly he walked back to Ellen, whispering, "Give me your scarf Angel there's trouble inside Mr. Wilkerson's store."
"Couldn't we just phone the police?" Ellen asked as she removed her yellow and blue scarf and handed it to Buddy.
Softly shacking his head as he accepted her scarf Buddy replied, "Not enough time. Mr. Wilkerson isn't moving." Then as a thought as he tied the scarf over his face to hide his identity he added, "Hurry Ellen, find a phone and call the police while I try and help Mr. Wilkerson." With that said he turned heading towards the store. Ellen stood there for a moment before taking off down the street trying to locate another open store to phone the police from.
***
Both Peter and Jake were now cleaning out different display cases. Jake having tossed away the keys and just shattering the tops of the cases with his gloved covered fist as in response to Peters eagerness in smashing a case with his crowbar a little tint of red flashing from the bar as the light played across it. Both boys were ignorant to the person standing in front of the store window watching as they quickly filled two large trash bags with jewelry.
Buddy closed his eyes for all of a second and reached into himself, sensing the animals around choosing his powers as he went. Within seconds he leaped at the window covering his face with his arms as he went crashing through landing just beyond the first display case, shocking both boys for a moment.
Peter was the first to respond and he snarled at the man who had just come through the glass window. He swung his crowbar mincingly at the man as he spoke, "Mister I don't know who you is but you just bought a whole world full of pain." Slowly walking towards him.
The whole event of robbing the store, Peter's beating of Old man Wilkerson and now this stranger crashing into the store was too much and in total fright he wet himself as he stood there unable to move.
Buddy moved into a crouching position and extended his right arm softly waving his hand at the young man, "Bring it on child, you don't know what trouble is." His voice muffled by the scarf covering his mouth.
Ellen had run down the street as fast as she could while wearing flats and a skirt. Quickly she skidded to a halt in front of a convenient store and hurried within stopping before the counter Talking a mile a moment, " Please you have to hurry there's trouble down the road."
The man behind the counter just stood there not responding as if seeming to not hear what Ellen said so she repeated herself, "Down the road at the jewelry store robbery." As she continued to speak she made a quick grab at the phone and stabbed at the O. Reaching the operator she quickly told of the events taking place at the jewelry store and without saying a word to the man behind the counter she ran back out of the store back towards Wilkerson's jewelry store.
Peter came in slow switching the crowbar from hand to hand sneering as he moved all the time thinking how easy this was suppose to be.
Buddy sniffed the air and could smell the sent of urine where one of the boys had wet himself and there was the taste of blood upon the air as well. He softly began to growl as Peter advanced on him.
Within seconds Peter made a quick dash towards Buddy and swung his crowbar at his head.
Buddy seeing it coming almost in slow motion launched himself up and over Peter's head just barely scraping his back along the ceiling, catching Peter in the back of his head as he kicked out at him, landing in front of Jake and threw out a left hook.
Jake tried to step back only to slip on his own urine falling onto the ground which ended up helping him absorbed some of the impact from Buddy's punch.
Peter quickly turned around still seeing stars from the blow that Buddy had landed and dropped his crowbar. Taking a step forward he reached into the waistband of his pants and pulled out a revolver and started to aim it at Buddy, "No @!?# does that to me and lives." He spat.
Buddy heard the sound of the Saturday night special's hammer sliding into place. As he turned to face Peter his right foot shot out grazing Jake in the side of his head lying him out flat. `Why does it have to be guns?' Buddy asked himself as the prepared to launch himself at the masked youth before him.
Within the distance Buddy could just hear the sound of sirens, softly smiling behind the scarf he looked the youth in the eyes and growled as he dove at the boys legs just as the gun went off.
Peter fired the gun just a second after Buddy had moved missing him completely "Stand still you #@! Jackrabbit!" he yelled as his feet flew out from under him and he lost his grip on the gun.
Buddy using the strength of a bear and the speed of a rabbit quickly picked Peter up over his head and began to spin him around. After a few moments he grunted as he tossed Peter over towards the far wall watching him crash and land upon the hard floor, smiling as he sniffed the air and slowly walked over to Mr. Wilkerson.
Ellen had made it back to the front of the jewelry store just seconds before the two police cars pulled up in the parking lot besides the building. Two men got out of the patrol cars almost in contrast of each other. If it were not for the uniforms one would have trouble noticing that they both were together.
One of the officers wore a blue uniform with a badge on the right side of his shirt and had a belt holder carrying a nightstick, a pair of handcuffs and his service revolver. He was about 5' ft tall and had thinning blond hair with almost shocking gray eyes.
The other officer was dressed in the same blue uniform with a badge but on the shoulders of his shirt were two stars. He stood nearly seven feet tall and had coal black hair with blue eyes.
The Second office quickly took charge as he slowly removed his revolver from his gun holster, his eyes never leaving Ellen. "Are you the one who called about the disturbance?" He asked in a deep voice.
"Yes, my husband is inside, he needs help!" Ellen said to the two officers worry showing deeply within her eyes.
"Don't worry miss, we will take care of it. Won't we Chief?" The first officer said as he removed his revolver.
The Chief had a worried look on his face as he responded, "We sure will. Now miss if you would please move back this could be dangerous." Then pointing to the other office he continued speaking, "Stan take the back door and I shall go through what is left of the front."
The officer known as Stan just nodded as he slowly began to walk towards the back of the store, his gray eyes searching each and every dark shadow as he walked.
Steve spotted the office before he was seen and quickly yet still quietly took off across the side yard trying to get away from the location as fast as possible. "Don't worry Bro. I'll either get you out of I'll make sure them trouble makers pay for messing with my family." He said to himself
After a moment there was a squawk on the Chief's radio, "I'm ready to enter the back of the place Chief." Stan said.
"Acknowledged!" the Chief said before boldly walking to the front of the store and said, "This is the police, come on out with your hands up or we will come in after you!" A hard anger sounding in his voice that was only beaten by the dark thoughts crossing his mind, `please make this the hard way trash, this one is personal.'
Stan slowly entered the back storeroom of the jewelry store scanning each space as if expecting a potential crook to jump from each corner. `And to think I took this job here cause I thought it would be quite.' Stan thought to himself as he made his way towards the entrance to the front of the store.
Buddy knelled down beside Mr. Wilkerson and began to check the old man the best he could for any injuries thinking to himself, `I should have taken that EMT training that Ellen mentioned about, it sure would come in handy right now.' Laying his first two fingers on Mr. Wilkerson's neck a small smile crossed his face as he noticed a pulse.
As the Chief made his was to the front door he couldn't bring himself to stop trying to see into the building. Trying the front door and finding it locked he started to reach into his pants pocket before he glanced over at the front window and noticed that it was shattered inwards. Taking a deep breath to calm himself he spoke once again, "This is the police, give yourself up and come out with you hands up." Before he finished speaking he had positioned his right foot against the front door while holding his revolver in his left hand.
Buddy heard the voice of the Chief of police coming from the front of the store and began to respond when he also heard the young man he had tossed across the room stir. Not wishing for him to be able to cause more trouble he quickly moved over to where the young man was and quickly removed his belt, using it like a rope he tied the young mans hands behind his back.
Just as Buddy was finishing with the belt, Stan walked through the entrance from the back of the store his revolver in his hand pointed at the young man just out of the doorway, when the front door blew off its hinges from the kick motion the Chief had used before making his entrance into the Store. "Freeze disease!" quickly pointing his revolver at both Buddy and the youth tied with the belt.
Buddy started to rise and explain the situation when the Chief spoke once again, "I said no body move and I meant it. Now on the floor you!" Cocking the hammer of his revolver to make his point know.
Ellen was standing beside one of the patrol cars watching the front of the store as people began to assemble across the street also.
Steve quickly made his way back to the building he and his brother Peter had been using as a hideout and home, and removed the ski mask and black tee shirt. Grabbing a blue shirt he put it on and ran back outside their concealed door and made his way back to the jewelry store this time joining the busy crowd of people gawking at the situation.
Buddy rotated his motion and slowly laid face down on the hard floor spreading his hands out before himself. As he laid their, he noticed with a silent groan his wallet lying just out of reach under the nearby display case.
Not taking his revolver off of Buddy the Chief quickly walked over and taking his handcuffs from the side of his belt began to quickly cuff Buddy's hands behind his back. Once he had Buddy secured he roughly rolled him over on his back before once again standing, "don't you go anywhere sunshine." The Chief said as he started to make his way around the display case.
Stan hadn't waited long after the Chief had busted in through the front door, he quickly had the inert masked youth cuffed and laying on his back. The youth was still out cold and Stan had noticed a stench rising from the youth, figuring that something that had happened caused him to release his bladder.
The chief quickly walked over and kneeled down beside of Mr. Wilkerson and began to check for vital signs. "Oh Dad!" he whispered as he placed his fingers to the side of the old mans neck. After a moment he found a pulse but it was very weak.
Stan watched as the Chief look Mr. Wilkerson over and a look of concern flashed across his face. `This is the chiefs dad. Oh I hope he is ok.'
The Chief quickly stood speaking as he rose, "Stan quickly go to your car and radio for an ambulance. We've got one that may not make it without immediate medical attention." Stan just nodded in reply and quickly ran out of the destroyed store, leaving the Chief alone with all of the suspects.
Walking back over to where Buddy was cuffed and laying on the floor the Chief spoke, "You want to explain yourself mister?"
Buddy slowly nodded his head as he replied, "Yes I can." His fingers were beginning to go numb from the handcuffs, as they were on too tight and cutting off the circulation in his wrist.
Very slowly the Chief slipped his revolver back into its holster before reaching out and slipping the scarf from Buddy's face. " Now mister you better start singing along with praying. If that old man over there dies today at this rate so do you and the others." He said venom dripping with each spoken word.
As Stan reached his patrol car he quickly opened the door and grabbed the mic keying it up, "Base this is car 4, we need an ambulance on the double. One code 6…" he repeated the message a second time and received a reply seconds later.
"Car 4 this is base, an ambulance is on its way over." Came a calm voice.
Ellen ran to the side of the patrol car not wanting to miss a word that was said. "Did you say someone was injured officer?" she asked worry written across her face.
Stan looked up at Ellen and softly nodded his head but seeing the worry in her eyes softly added, "The Chief's dad from what I can tell may be dying." From her quick response he noticed that she had been worried for her husband. `God help her husband now if he's inside that store, especially if the chief's dad dies.' He thought to himself as he started to make his way back towards the store, Ellen slowly walked towards the store behind him.
***
After receiving the call back over the car radio Stan began to usher the crowds of people back from the store and away from the scene pumping his arms up and down in the air, camera flashes continuing to go off the whole time. "Ok people, nothing to be seen here. No more drama then what will be in he paper tomorrow, get moving along."
Ellen continued to stare at the front of the jewelry store wishing she could some how help Buddy with the escalating situation inside worry framed her face and a haunted look slowly crept across her eyes. In the distance the sound of an ambulance could be heard weaving its way through the busy Pigeon Forge traffic.
Back within the store Buddy was quickly trying to diffuse the situation with the Police chief, his eyes never leaving the Chief's as he spoke, "Chief, my name is Buddy Baker I and my wife Ellen are on our vacation. We had just been here shopping a little bit ago when I noticed I had lost my wallet. Retracing our steps we arrived back here and happened upon this situation and I thought I could help."
The chief's expression didn't soften an inch the whole time Buddy talked he continued to take worried glances at his dad as he responded. "And what's your connection to this trash Mr. Baker, if that's truly your real name?" once again venom dripping with each word.
Buddy looked at the two youth then back at the Police chief before speaking, "Sir I don't know them at all and that's the truth." Taking a chance he motioned over towards the display case where his wallet laid. "My wallet is under that case if you would like proof." He offered as the sounds of sirens pulled up in front of the store.
Within the ambulance arrived backing up to the front of the jewelry store parking beside Stan's patrol car. Two young men in white quickly jumped out of the cab. Running to the back they pulled the two large doors opened and removed a gurney.
As the ambulance arrived the crowd began to respond to Stan's pleas for the crowd to disperse leaving only a couple of people with cameras and Steve who tried to look like he was interested in what was in side the store front he was standing before. Taking a few moments to look across the street he took a long hard glance at Ellen beside the patrol car before glancing back at the store window.
Without really paying attention Ellen noticed the youth across the road looking at her but her attention was really on the paramedics as they quickly entered the remains of the jewelry store.
As the two paramedics entered the store the Police chief looked up at them without saying a word but many words he wanted to say played across his face quickly before he finally said, "Be tender with him, he's not looking very good."
One of the paramedics kneeled down beside Mr. Wilkerson and begin to check him over as his partner unfastened the straps on the gurney. Looking at his partner he spoke in hushed words. "Help me get him on the gurney, he has a pulse but it's very week and not too stable." Out loud looking at the Police chief he said, "Don't worry sir, we'll take good care of him." The only response from the chief was a small nod of his head as the two paramedics slowly loaded his dad on the gurney, strapped him down and quickly but carefully removed him from the store and loaded him into the rig and shutting the doors, the ambulance screamed off down the road.
Ellen continue to watch the whole thing from the side of the patrol car, within saying a silent prayer for Mr. Wilkerson and for the second time wishing she could enter the building and help her husband.
As the ambulance screeched off down the road, Stan reached into the truck of his patrol car and pulled out some yellow marker tape and began to stake off the building while within another event was taking place.
After the paramedics had removed his dad the Chief slowly crawled over to the display case Buddy had mentioned and slowly reaching beneath it is softly brushed his fingers across Buddy's wallet before slowly pulling it free. Without turning or asking for permission, he opened the walled and began to scan the different forms of id, seeing more then one family photo he stopped at the driver license and began to scan over it.
Buddy continued to lay upon the floor waiting for something to happen, thinking to himself not for the first time, 'I could be free in less then a second if I wanted to be' slowly flexing his wrist trying to return the circulation into his cuffed hands.
After having taped off the crime scene Stan turned to Ellen and with a sad smile spoke to her, "Maam, I know you've been through a lot but I'm going to have to ask you and your husband to come to the station with us." Slowly Ellen nodded in response as Stan walked over and opened the back door of his patrol car, gently nudging her inside.
Steve continued to watch the scene across the road trying to think of what he was going to do to help his brother out, as images of the young woman now sitting within the patrol car began to play across his mind, a small smile crossing his face at the thoughts, and the smile wasn't a very pretty sight to see.
Within moments Stan and Chief Wilkerson had the scene blocked off and different locations marked after they had loaded the two youth and Buddy into their patrol cars. Walking back out of the store the chief turned and took one more look at the remains of his Dad's shop and had a fleeting thought, 'Dad I'm not ready to let you go just yet.'
As the two patrol cars slowly made their way from the scene Steve continued to watch before slowly making his way back towards the building he and his brother had been using as both home and headquarters. During the whole walk he continued to question him self, 'How could I have failed Peter so and how can I help him how?' while he was slipping through their secret door an idea came to his mind and he quickly pumped his right hand into the air snapping his fingers, "of course, I should have thought of that in the first place." And he quickly made his way towards the only working phone within the whole building.
While driving towards the Pigeon Forge police building Chief Wilkerson radioed in. "This is Chief Wilkerson to base."
"Base here." Came the cool calm response of the dispatcher.
"Martha, please see to it that I have on my desk the files for two known petty criminals along with running a check on a their individual."
Their was a momentary pause before Martha responded, "Give me the information Sir." She said.
"Two files, Wright A. Peter and Sylvester P. Jake. The other person, Drivers license number 24405069, the name is Buddy Baker. Given address is 221 West Hollywood California."
As the chief was reading off the information Martha's eyes flew wide and a small tear slipped from her eyes, 'Oh no. Not my Peter.' She thought to herself before responding. "Will do Sir, may take a while for the long distance information."
"It's not like He's going anywhere special Martha." Chief Wilkerson said, a small laugh escaping, the first one since he had arrived on the scene.
"Understood!" was the only response Martha made before calling out to Wally, a heavy set over weight man with thinning hair wearing a brown and orange plaid suit, giving him the request of Chief Wilkerson and then she reached for the phone on her desk and quickly began to dial.
Back at the hideout Steve felt almost giddy as he made his way towards the phone and was in the act of picking up the receiver when the phone began to ring. Almost in shock he stood there for a few minuets before picking up the receiver and answering. "Hello?"
"Steve?" a soft voice said on the other side, "It's me Martha. I just heard about Peter…"
Not able to hold himself back as a feeling of great relief washed over himself he interrupted her, "Martha, you've got to help me. I don't know how I'm going to get Peter and Jake free…"
"Calm down Steve." Martha said trying to keep her voice down. "You know I'll do whatever I can to help." She said, "Listen to me Steve. You can't stay there. As quick as you can make your way to my place and we'll see what we can come up with to help your brother. You know where the spare key is." And with that Martha hung up the phone and returned to her work.
Within minuets both Chief Wilkerson and Stan pulled their patrol cars near into the Pigeon Forge police parking lot. Chief Wilkerson quickly and not too kindly pulled the two handcuffed youth from his patrol car and into the jail facility without saying a word, frowning as he led then inside.
Stan gently helped Buddy and Ellen from the back of his patrol car and removed the handcuffs from Buddy's wrist before they headed towards the main building. "Sorry that I had to leave those on. Let's get inside so you can both make statements on what happened." He said thinking, 'Things couldn't be much worst then this.'
Later that evening Steve arrived at Martha's apartment and locating the spare key, let himself inside. Still feeling down on himself and angry at not knowing what to do to help his brother Peter, Steve did the only thing that he always did when he was down. He walked over and took a couple cans of beer from the fridge and headed for the couch in the sparse living room. "Don't worry Bro. Martha will help me think of something." He said to himself as he sat down popping open one of the cans and taking a drink.
Around 9:45pm Buddy and Ellen Baker arrived back at their hotel, having been driven there by Office Stan Mitchell after a long four hour detaining and questioning. All Ellen could think about was how good a hot shower was going to feel and how sorry she was that Buddy had not been able to do more for nice old Mr. Wilkerson.
As they entered the room Buddy immediately kicked off his shoes and plopped down on the bed, exhausted from both the struggle within the jewelry store and then the hours of questioning at the police station. 'That was the longest round of questioning I've ever had to endure. I'm just glad its over.' He thought to himself as he slowly closed his eyes.
"Don't you go to sleep yet Buddy" Ellen said as she made her way towards the bathroom. "We haven't had anything to eat since lunch and both of us can do with showers after today's events."
As Ellen closed the bathroom door, Buddy slowly opened his eyes and let out a nearly silent moan before reaching over and taking hold of the hotel directory. Quickly scanning through it he located the menu for the hotel restaurant but was not able to locate its number so he picked up the phone and dialed the front desk and was surprised when it was quickly answered.
"Front Desk, this is Ron speaking, how may I help you?" a silken voice said over the phone.
"Yes, this is Buddy Baker in room 205. How long does the hotel's restaurant stay open and is it still possible to receive room service?" Buddy asked as he began to scan over the provided menu.
"Why Mr. Baker, the restaurant is open till one in the morning and room service is available until eleven on the dot." The guy known as Ron said in reply
"Then is it possible to transfer me to the restaurant?" Buddy asked trying to locate something that did not have animal meat in its making.
Ron quickly replied, "Why sure Mr. Baker, and if you should need take care of in any other way, please don't hesitate to give me a call." And with that the phone clicked twice and a new voice spoke.
"This is Louie's, how may I help you." The voice carried a hint of a northern accent that Buddy could not place but he went ahead and began to place an order for dinner and as an after thought he decided to surprise Ellen by ordering a bottle of wine. Through the bathroom door the sound of the shower could be heard running.
When Martha's shift ended she, avoided making any real contact with the staff working at the police station as she had left and quickly headed straight home. When she arrived she let herself in she called out Steve's name, "Steve are you here? Steve, it's me Martha." Not receiving any reply she slipped off her high heal shoes and slowly began to make her way from room to room searching for Steve.
Steve had drunk too many cans of beer and he knew it. 'Dang I'm jumping at shadows.' He thought to himself as the sound of a car passed by Martha's apartment. The moment he heard the sound of the kitchen door opening he quickly yet still silently hid within the hall coat closet.
Martha slowly made her way past the hall coat closet and entered the living room still calling out Steve's name when she noticed the pile of empty beer cans. 'Well at least I know he's been here but where…" she was thinking.
At that moment Steven chose to leave the closet and surprise who ever it was within the apartment and with a speed that belittled his drunken state he quickly grabbed Martha from behind clasping his hand over her mouth to keep her from screaming, his other arm raping around her waist. Just about holding her to him when Martha wiggled her head and sank her teeth into Steve's hand and screamed.
Back at the hotel Ellen had came from the shower and walked into the dimly lit room. Near the patio doors that lead out onto the balcony of their hotel room sat a table barely big enough for two and standing beside it was a round serving tray filled with two fresh dinners and a bucket of ice holding a bottle of red wine. Buddy was sitting at the table and had just lit the lone candle as the bathroom door opened.
The show of shocked quickly crossed Ellen's face as she took in all that she saw as she spoke, "Buddy, what are we celebrating. Why the wine?"
Buddy just looked at his lovely wife and grinned as he replied, "Just figured we could celebrate our good fortune and enjoy a fine wine." As he spoke he stood and slowly began to place the plates of food onto the table.
Slowly Ellen made he way to the table and softly sat down smiling up at her husband, feeling the deepest of love for him, she knew that within her heart she couldn't bare to ever lose him.
Back at Martha's apartment she quickly spun around and delivered a swift punch to Steve's stomach hissing as she spoke, and forcing him to release her and sending him to the floor "Calm down, your recklessness could cause trouble."
As she finished speaking a loud pounding could be heard coming from her front door and a man's voice could be heard calling out to her, "Martha are you all right child? It's me James, open the door."
Looking at Steve for a moment she quickly moved to her front door and opened it up just a crack and spoke a small smile plastered on her face." It's ok James, my boyfriend and I were just getting a little too carried away, didn't mean to scare you."
The man known as James tried to see more into Martha's apartment but instead decided to take her words for what he had heard. "Oh, ok child, wouldn't want to see anything happen to my best tenant" a small smile playing across his face, I'll leave you two be then" thinking as he turned to leave, 'and I'll be keeping a better watch on things here from now on.'
As Martha was shutting the door she could hear Steve groaning as he slowly moved his was from the floor onto the couch starring at her as she made her way to the couch and sat down near the opposite armrest.
For a few moments neither of them spoke then as if a dam had burst Steve began to speak. "So what are we going to do? How do I make them pay for hurting my bro?"
"Whoa, hold your horses Steve. We have to take this slow." Martha spoke with a caring within her voice that Steve had not heard since he was ten and his mother had passed away. "We will help Peter, but you are going to have to do it my way or we all lose everything."
Still responding to having too much beer to drink Steve slowly began to babble as tears slowly trickled from his eyes, the look of complete and total defeat rolled across his face as Martha continue talking
"I never said we were not going to do anything, I know who those trouble makers were who got Peter nabbed and I know where they live." A small smile began to slowly form across her face as she spoke, "Steve, if we are patient enough we can plan out our revenge and they will never know what hit them."
For a moment it was like he had not heard a word that Martha said until he slowly lifted his face towards her and looked deeply into her eyes, tears still running down his cheeks. Then with a voice that showed great strength and dedication he spoke, "YES! We shall plan, and then! Then shall they pay for causing my bro trouble." And with that he quickly scooted across the couch and surprising Martha with his actions he began to passionately kiss her lips his arms slipping around her.
Epilogue
"So what became of Old man Wilkerson and his son not to mention the two kids dad?" Maxine asked
She had been peppering me with different questions ever since we had left Rip Hunters California headquarters. I had peppered her with more then one question about why she was dressed how she was and how many had seen her use her powers.
"Well pumpkin, your mom and I had visited Mr. Wilkerson at least half a dozen times that week we had to stay in Pigeon Forge and I'm happy to say that he made a proper recovery. As a matter of affect hon, that little diamond ring and the gold necklace that you and your brother Cliff received about five Christmas ago came from Mr. Wilkerson and his son. I think Chief Wilkerson has retired by now too. But the two young men both ended up going to prison and are not due to be paroled for some time still." He replied, thinking about the great people we had met and how it was sad that they had not kept in touch as much as they should have.
As we approached the neighborhood where we lived he pointed over at a small forest of trees behind our house. Maxine nodded to let me know that she too had seen them and we both began to descend into the forest. He had decided to see just how much control Maxine truly had of her powers so instead of taking a cab home we had flown using the ability of an eagle.
'Maybe I should spend some time properly training Maxine with her powers.' He thought as I landed
"Dad, why are there police at our house?" Maxine asked just as we touched ground, she looked very worried and began to run towards the house still within her makeshift costume.
Buddy reached out and quickly yet softly placed a hand on her shoulder. "Whoa young lady. We don't need anyone seeing you dressed like that. My identity is not a secret but yours should stay that way." He said as he slowly slipped my mask from my face. "You get into the house from the back door and I shall engage the police from around the side." He continued.
Maxine once again nodded her head and waited for me to leave the forest before she headed toward the house.
Nonchalantly Buddy walk out from behind his home and headed right up the group of police standing within his driveway." How may I help you officer's?"
A Lt. with short blond hair and gray eyes Spoke up as Buddy approached, "Is your name Buddy Baker sir?
Nodding in response Buddy said, "Yes, that's me."
With those words the other four officers slowly begin to take up positions around him and the Lt. continued to speak. "Then sir, I'm afraid that you are needed to come down to the station."
Shock and fear both crossed Buddy's face as he heard the word exit the offices mouth and he stuttered a little when he replied, "why… why? What's happened now?"
"All I know sir is that you are needed for questioning." The Lt. said, as two of the other officers each took a hold of an arm. In quick motion Buddy's arms were cuffed behind him and he was slowly led to one of the waiting police cars.
"Questioning for what?" Buddy replied as his hands were cuffed
At that moment Maxine chose to exit the front door and witnessed Buddy being led towards a police car. "Daddy, what's happening?" she nearly screamed but didn't step off the front porch of the house.
Before Buddy could reply one of the other officers spoke up, he had dark black hair and blue eyes and a deep tanned look. "There's been a murder and we need to know what you father knows about it."
Maxine's mouth dropped open as a single tear slowly trickled down her face as she watched in silence as Buddy was placed in a police car and it along with the other two made their way out of the neighborhood.
After they had left Maxine ran back into the house and grabbed a phone quickly calling her mom, leaving the front door wide open. "Mom there's been a problem can you come home now?"
"Not at the moment hon. I'm stuck in this meeting I'll be right there shortly I promise to call back and leave right after it." Ellen said trying to sound calm while being slightly upset.
"Ok mom." Was all Maxine could think of saying before hanging up the phone.