*Adult themes, mild violence, a single expletive
Disclaimer: These characters that we all love and cherish are unfortunately not mine (although if they were I would never have canceled them!!!!). As we all know, they belong to that nice little publishing house who would never think of suing us poor fanfic writers because, of course, we are only having fun-AND-not receiving profit...
Background Info: A brief background. Hmmmmm. Okay, it's involved, but it's necessary to understand the story. My little fanfic takes place WAY in the future. It's a strange future which I have concocted in my head. Basically, Trixie and Jim have been married for a few years (sorry to all the Dan fans, but this is my fanfic, and I get to chose who she marries). They live in Washington, DC, where Trixie is a special agent with the FBI (yes, I know I've watched too many “X-Files” shows, but I promise Mulder and Scully will not show up--this time). Anyway, for those of you who are wondering what's up with Jim and his school-IT’S COMING! Not for a few years, but I promise that in my mind, they end up back in the New York/Sleepyside area, and Jim's school comes into existence. At this point, however, he is gaining valuable experience working in a school in Washington.
Also, I think I've watched Independence Day too many times, with Bill Pullman as the young, idealistic President with a young daughter. In this story, the President is Jack Cooper, his wife is Elizabeth Cooper and their seven-year-old daughter is Maggie. This is not a comment on the current Presidential situation--it just works out nicely for the story. Anyway, Honey also works for the FBI (we couldn't split up the partnership now, could we?), and I promise that I’ll try to fit in most of the Sleepyside characters. Whew! Okay, here we go...
The President's Wish
by Amy
Chapter One
Special Agent Trixie Frayne sighed loudly as she laid the last file on the stack which towered over her desk. Although it was a beautiful sunny afternoon in May, Trixie gave it no thought, as she had been at her desk since before sunrise.
“That's the end of my paperwork!” she said to no one in particular. “I'm outta here. See you in three weeks.”
“Actually, you'll see me next weekend,” a familiar voice came up behind Trixie.
“Hey, Honey. What are you doing here?” Trixie asked.
“Well, I came to tell my best friend and sister-in-law to enjoy her few weeks of vacation in which she gets to spend time with her husband and family in the town where she grew up while I slave away solving the latest crime which threatens our nation.”
“Poor baby. Besides, your vacation starts next week.”
“It had better start next weekend. I’d hate to be the only Bob-White to miss the mini-reunion, even if we are all going to be busy with Bobby and the twins’ graduation and open houses. I can't believe your baby brother is graduating from high school. Do you know how old that makes me feel?”
“Personally, I can't wait to spend some actual time with Jim. Between his teaching and coaching, and the latest case we had, I don't think I've seen him for more than ten minutes at a time since March.”
“Oh, Trix. You must be exaggerating,” Honey said with a twinkle in her eye. “But if you see him, tell my big brother, ‘hi,’ and try not to get too bored without a case to solve.”
“If I come across one, you can have it. I am looking forward to a nice relaxing vacation with no puzzles and no unanswered questions.”
“I can't count the times you've said you wanted a mystery-free vacation,” Honey counteracted. “It just never happens. But, maybe you can save it for next weekend, so I can have fun, too.”
“I can just see Mart rolling his eyes right now. But right now I have to go. We have quite a drive ahead of us.” With a wave of goodbye, she left a giggling Honey behind.
Trixie took a deep breath and separated herself for a moment from the lively conversation around her. Seated at the Wheeler's large dining room table were the Wheelers, her parents, Bobby, Miss Trask, and Jim. It had been a long drive and every moment since their arrival had been occupied by people. Granted, there were many friends at home, and the last time she had been in Sleepyside was December, but she needed an escape-and some time to have decent conversation with Jim alone.
Suddenly, Trixie was aware that Celia had brought her cellular phone into the room. “I'm sorry to disturb dinner,” she apologized, “but your phone keeps ringing.”
Trixie turned to Mrs. Wheeler. “Will you excuse me for a moment?” Quickly moving from the room, she began to concoct the lecture she would give to the person on the other end of the line. Didn't they know the meaning of vacation?
“Hello,” she began.
“Agent Frayne? This is Assistant Director Perkins. We're calling all agents back.”
“What? Is this some kind of joke?”
“I wish it was. Maggie Cooper is missing. She was abducted somewhere between her school and the White House. We have received a letter demanding the exchange of nuclear weapons for her life. For an act of terrorism this large, we need everyone.”
“But, sir....”
“No buts. Sorry kid. Welcome to the FBI. Did we mention you'd have no life?”
“I'm beginning to catch on."
“We're holding a briefing at six tomorrow morning. You're expected to be there.” With that, the director hung up the phone.
Great, Trixie thought, as she pressed the end button. I drive seven hours only to fly back to the very office I left today. Suddenly, she stopped herself as a guilty feeling washed over her. Way to go, Trix, she thought. A child is missing and could be in the hands of terrorist and you are complaining about missing a few days of vacation. She then shivered and the telltale sign of goosebumps covered her arms. What had happened to Maggie Cooper? Honey was right. She could never handle quiet and relaxation. She was on the trail of another mystery.
Chapter Two
Trixie leaned her head back against the window and tried to ignore the throbbing headache which had been growing since the previous night. The world outside was racing by, but on the subway it was a whirlwind of thoughts that were racing through her head. One moment they were on Maggie Cooper and her disappearance. However, as much as she tried not to think about it, Trixie could not keep her thoughts from drifting back to her parting with Jim the night before.
After hanging up the phone, Trixie returned to the Wheeler’s lavish dining room, only to be greeted by inquiring gazes from around the table. Taking a deep breath and making a point not to look at Jim, she announced that she had been called back to Washington. Mrs. Belden immediately voiced her concern. “The poor family. They must be wild with worry.” Each person expressed their concern for the President, the First Lady and Maggie. However, Trixie could sense their disappointment. As she excused herself to repack, Bobby followed her out the room.
“Trix,” he began. “Does this mean you won’t be home Friday? I know you need to do your job and everything, but I really want you to be at my graduation.”
Sighing, she turned to look at her younger brother who was at least a half foot taller than her. “Bobby, I’d love to promise that I will be here for sure, but I can’t. But, I do promise to do everything in my power to be here. I know Honey feels the same way.”
“Okay, sis,” he replied. “Go save the world. But don’t forget about the rest of us in the meantime.” He then gave her a quick hug to let her know he sort of understood, and returned to the dining room.
Trixie was upstairs repacking when she finally heard the door open. The conversation she had been dreading since the phone call began.
“Well,” he started. “I knew the idea of getting to spend some time with you was too good to be true.”
“Jim, please don’t start. You know I’m disappointed, too. But there’s nothing I can do about it.”
“Are you really disappointed? Can you honestly look me in the eye and tell me that you’re not the least bit excited about the prospect of a new mystery?”
Trixie looked intently at her suitcase, only to hear the door slam after a few moments. She knew his temper would cool down with time, but time was something she didn’t have. It was going to be a long ride to the airport.
The briefing was just about to begin as Trixie slid into a chair next to Honey, who looked at her with surprise.
“What are you doing here?” she asked.
“Oh, about dinner time last night I got a phone call from Perkins telling me I had less than twelve hours to be back here for this little briefing.” Immediately, she felt guilty for dwelling only on her own problems. “But what about Maggie Cooper? Have you heard anything?”
“I--,” Honey started as she was cut off by an important looking figure in a dark suit. Both women immediately recognized him as Dr. Riley, the head of the FBI.
“Agents,” he began with an air of extreme importance. “I’m sure you know why we are all here. I hope you also realize the gravity of the situation. We have been looking at the evidence for the last twelve hours and have concluded this to be an act of terrorism. As you may know, President Cooper has been very involved in the new round of peace talks taking place in the Middle East. There are many groups that wish to stop such cooperation. Also, they have chosen a child for the victim, which plays on our nation’s sympathy. At least six groups have claimed responsibility. However, there has only been one contact with the kidnappers. Yesterday afternoon, an anonymous note was found demanding nuclear weapons in exchange for Maggie Cooper’s life. We are waiting at this time for more contact.”
“Did anyone see who left the note?” asked someone from the back of the room.
“We have video surveillance of the area where the note was left. However, it is not conclusive as to who left the note.”
“Now,” he continued. “Obviously, we can not give out nuclear weapons, no matter who’s life is at stake. Therefore, our only hope is to find Maggie Cooper. I have asked Assistant Directors Perkins and Ellis to divide you into tasks. There will be a terrorism expert on each team, as I think, and you all probably agree, that this is a cut and dry case.”
Trixie leaned over to Honey and whispered, “Almost too cut and dry.”
“Excuse me, Agent...,” he peered at her nametag. “Frayne. Would you like to share you ideas with the rest of us? This is an information briefing.”
Trixie felt herself beginning to blush. However, she was not one to back down. “I was just saying that I felt Maggie Cooper’s disappearance was almost too cut and dry as far as a case of terrorism goes. It seems to me to be something straight out the of FBI handbook.”
“I suppose you read this handbook relatively recently,” Riley said as he stared hard at Trixie, who immediately cringed. Next to being called Beatrix, the thing she hated most was being reminded that her petite frame and blonde curls made her look more like eighteen instead of twenty-six.
“No, sir. It’s been awhile. However, I feel it is a mistake to ignore the possibility that there might be another motive.” Out of the corner of her eye, she caught Assistant Director Perkins glaring at her and motioning for her to be quiet.
“Well, Agent,” Riley began. “Since you seem to be such an expert on ‘other motives,’ I put you in charge of that side of the investigation. Now is there anyone who would like to volunteer to work with Agent Frayne?” He looked around the room.
Trixie was sending mental messages to Honey not to raise her hand, but it didn’t work. Inwardly, she groaned as Honey said, “I’ll work with her, sir.”
As the two left the room, Trixie turned to her best friend and said, “Just because I decide to ruin my career, doesn’t mean that you have to do the same thing.”
Honey was about to reply as Perkins came up behind them. “Hey, Mulder,” he quipped. “Those kind of speeches during a briefing only work on TV. In real life, they get you into trouble. What makes you so sure that this isn’t an act of terrorism?” He stared hard at her waiting for the answer.
Trixie took a deep breath and turned to her superior. “I don’t know, sir,” she said. “I just have a feeling...”
Chapter Three
“Okay boss, where do we go from here?” Honey looked at Trixie, who was at her desk surrounded by stacks of papers.
“Don’t call me that,” she replied without bothering to look up from the folder she was reading. “Just because I don’t know when to keep my mouth shut and am now ‘in charge’ of this little investigation, doesn’t mean we’re not partners."
“Whatever,” Honey said with a smile. “Now, tell me again why we are looking through the background checks of all these people--other than the fact that after this little investigation, background checks might be something we become familiar with.”
Ignoring Honey’s point about the direction their career path seemed to be taking, Trixie closed the folder and picked up another from the still looming pile. “I just don’t think this is a case of terrorism. Whoever did this is familiar with the FBI. I actually did pull out my FBI handbook and read the chapters of terrorism. What was written could be based on this case. There is the bold act of kidnapping in broad daylight. They chose a very political victim, who also happened to be a child and therefore would invoke the sympathy of the nation. The note even asks for nuclear weapons.” Pausing, she put down the new folder, closed her eyes and leaned back. “But what we seem to be missing is that this person had to know Maggie Campbell’s schedule. They had to know exactly when she was picked up from school, as well as the routine. Besides, I hear she is a bright kid. I find it hard to believe she’d leave with any old person. I just feel it could have been an inside job.”
“Alright. But what about a motive?”
“There could be a dozen reasons. Maybe the kidnapper wanted money. Or the reason could be political. It could be some huge cover-up that the President’s involved in. It could even have something to do with the Coopers personally, not politically.”
“So let me get this straight. You’re going to tell Perkins that you think this has to do with the President’s personal life?”
Standing up and moving nervously around the small space which surrounded her desk, Trixie replied, “Of course not. I just have a feeling right now. Please, bear with me.”
Honey, seeing that her friend was struggling with the whole thing, relented. “Sorry, Trix. I suppose I should know by now not to discount your feelings. I guess I’m just a little nervous. What if we’re wrong?”
Smiling at Honey’s use of “we,” Trixie looked at the folders around her. “I guess we’re getting a head start on career training.”
Trixie was at home on the couch trying to concentrate on the folders in front of her. After spending over sixteen hours at the office, she and Honey had decided to go home and rest. However, Trixie couldn’t sleep. Glancing at the clock across the room, she leaned back on the big, fluffy pillows. Come on Trix, she thought. After last night with only two hours of sleep, you should be able to doze at three in the morning.
Suddenly, she was startled by the loud ringing of the phone next to her. Who would be calling at this hour? she thought. Immediately, she had a pretty good idea who it was.
“Hello?” she said trying to remain calm. She wasn’t sure she was ready for this.
“Hi. I thought you’d be up.”
“Well, you probably know my sleeping habits better than anyone.”
“Not recently.” As Trixie started to protest, Jim quickly cut in. “But I don’t want to talk about that now. What I do want to do is apologize.”
“Jim, I had no control over this.”
“I know. I had no right to lose my temper. But I miss you. We really haven’t had too much ‘quality time’ together lately. I guess I just built up our vacation up in my mind so much, that when it didn’t work out, I took it out on you. I’m sorry.”
“Jim, it’s the nature of the job. I don’t want to be gone for days at a time, but it’s what I do.”
“Look, Trix. I knew what I was getting into when I married you. I would love to spend every evening and weekend with you, and the daytime for that matter, but I understand that your job is important to you. It’s what you were meant to do. Besides, when I do get to see you, it’s worth it.”
Trixie started to reply, but felt herself becoming choked up. Finally, she just said, “Thank you.”
Sensing that an understanding had been reached, Jim changed the subject. “So how’s the investigation going? Can you tell me anything about it?”
“Well, I can’t tell you anything about the case, other than I opened my big mouth and got in trouble with the head of the FBI. At this point, I’m ‘in charge’ of the domestic operation, which consists of myself and Honey, because she’s too damn loyal.”
Jim chuckled. “Let me guess. He didn’t care for your theory?”
“Pretty much.”
“Well, Trix. Your theories may sound crazy sometimes, but you are usually right. Just promise me you’ll be careful?”
Trixie sighed. He tried, but he’d always be the same overprotective Jim. “I’m always careful,” she said.
“Yeah, right, Trix. I love you very much. Now, try to get some sleep.”
Trixie smiled as she hung up the phone. However, the last thing she felt like doing was sleeping. She picked up one of the folders on the couch.
“Well, Mr. William Bradley Scott. This is your life,” she said as she opened the front. “Hmmm. Six feet, zero inches tall. 165 lbs. Hair: brown. Eyes: brown. Born October 23, 1957 in Billings, Montana. Single. Father was a ranch hand and Mother was a cook. Outstanding student. Won scholarship to college. Majored in criminology. Worked in security at Capitol Building, and eventually the White House. How exciting.” Trixie set the file back on the couch. This is going nowhere fast, she thought.
Chapter 4
Trixie paced in front of Assistant Director Perkins's office. She was early for their meeting, which she wished to be through with as soon as possible. Relax, Trix, she told herself. It's not like you're a teenager waiting for a lecture from Sgt. Molinson again.
She had to smile. Some things never did change. She remembered Molinson's reaction when she had entered the FBI Academy. "Are they nuts!?!" he had screamed, turning his usual enraged red, which seemed to happen whenever she was within his sight. He had then threatened to move to Canada.
The sudden opening of the office door made Trixie jump. Blushing at the thought of how silly she must have looked, she turned to face the secretary, who gave her an odd look and said, "Assistant Director Perkins will see you now." Trixie was led into the handsome office. The wall paneling and desk were made from beautiful dark cherry wood. Trixie's feet sank into the deep, plush carpet as she walked over to where Perkins was sitting.
"Well, Frayne, how is the internal search going?"
Trixie took a deep breath. "It's fine, sir, for what we can do. We have been going through background checks of various employees, but right now that doesn't tell us much. I would like to know when I am going to have access to the information everyone else does. How did the interview with the teacher go? And what about the note? Am I allowed to see it? Or is that for the "terrorism" investigation only?"
Realizing she was jeopardizing the already precarious position of her job by speaking her mind, Trixie bit her lip and waited for a reprimand.
To her surprise, the usually grim man laughed. "You and I," he said, "are expected at a meeting with the Director and others in five minutes. There, you can scrounge around for information. Or more likely, if you ask nicely, they'll just tell you."
He started to rise from his chair, then paused. Looking Trixie straight in the eye, he continued, "Just don't refute everything the Director tells you this time. I had a hard time calming him down yesterday." Noticing the look of defiance which involuntarily showed in her eyes, he added, "I'm not asking you to sell out or not question his actions in your head. I would just like to have you as one of my agents for awhile longer. You have an amazing instinct and a lot of courage. But, you need to stop playing the maverick. It works on television, in books, and in fanfic on the Internet, but not in real life. Keep your mouth shut around him, and tell me your plans, ideas, theories, etc. I'll get them cleared."
Dumbfounded, Trixie followed him out of the office and down the hall to the elevator. She was not sure if she had received a compliment or a warning. Probably both, she thought as she stared at the numbers above the elevator doors. The doors opened, and she followed Perkins down the hall.
Two hours later, Trixie glanced at her watch for the umpteenth time. For what seemed like an eternity, different agents had given lengthy reports which boiled down to one thing-no one had any leads. Trixie was trying desperately to find a reason to escape, when the person next to her handed her yet another sheet of paper with a report. Brought back to the meeting, she suddenly realized they were discussing the note.
"As you can see," the analyst was saying, "we have determined the origin of each cut out letter from the ransom note. Each was taken from various newspapers in the Washington area over a two week period in March. This leads us to conclude that the plans were made in the vicinity. However, it does not give us any specific lead on the identity of the group responsible for the kidnapping of Miss Cooper."
Trixie looked at the handout she had received. It meticulously gave the paper and print date for each cut out letter on the note-except for one. It was a strange looking "B." Very elaborate, it had ornate tails and curls at each end.
It took all of Trixie's will power to refrain from mentioning the letter. She glanced at Perkins to see if he had noticed it. He did not seem to question the missing information. Trixie opened her mouth and closed it quickly. Hold on, she thought. Don't speak now. There's no need to make people angry yet. However, curiosity was slowly killing her.
To Trixie's surprise, it was the Director who put her out of her misery. "Why is there no information on this particular letter?" he asked.
The agent fidgeted under his scrutinous gaze. "Well, sir," he began. "we searched all the newspapers in the country and not one had a similar letter. We decided that since every other letter originated in the Washington area, the chances of this particular letter being from another place were slim. We assumed it was probably from a piece of junk mail."
"You assumed!?! So far no one has come up with a damn thing. I don't think anyone here understands the seriousness of the situation. Now I want you to go back to your analysts and find that letter. As for the rest of you, we will continue this meeting when someone actually has something valuable to say."
As everyone around her started to rise, Trixie stared long and hard at the letter. It seemed slightly familiar. Closing her eyes, she tried to place it.
Deep in thought, she was only slightly aware of the nudge Perkins gave her. "You know you are going to burn a hole through that paper if you stare at it much harder. Come on, the meeting is adjourned."
Silently, she followed him out of the room and down the hall once again. Pausing at the drinking fountain, she suddenly stood up straight. Making sure that Perkins was far enough ahead of her not to hear, she pulled out her cell phone.
Hearing a familiar voice at the other end, she said, "Honey, meet me at my apartment in thirty minutes. I think I finally have a lead."
Chapter 5
Honey was waiting outside the apartment when Trixie arrived.
"You could have let yourself in, you know."
"Actually," Honey replied, "you still have my keys. Remember when you couldn't find yours about a month ago, and you didn't want to tell Jim you'd lost yours again? You made me give you mine."
"Um, sort of. That was in the middle of a case, and I had a lot on my mind. I think I lost yours, too."
Honey giggled. "So what's your lead?" she asked. Instead of answering, Trixie handed her the analysis of the letter.
"What's this?" Honey asked after looking at it briefly.
"I was invited to the Director's meeting on the progress of the different areas of the case."
"Wow! I bet that was exciting!"
"Hardly. It was two hours of different people trying to conceal the fact that they had no leads. But, if I'm right about the letter, it may have been worth it." She went over to Jim's desk which stood neatly in the corner of the living room and started rummaging through the drawers.
"Um, Trix? I thought that was Jim's desk. Don't you usually prefer to work over there?" Honey pointed to the sofa, which still had multiple folders scattered about it.
"Of course it's not my desk. Do you think I'd ever keep anything so neat and organized? What I'm looking for belongs to Jim." After a moment of searching, she pulled out a pile of brightly colored sheets of paper and said, "Ah! Here they are!"
"Trixie, you're going to have to clue me in here."
"Do you see how there is information for all the letters except that strange looking "B"? No one has any idea where it came from, but I felt like I had seen it before. Then I remembered Jim had read to me something from one of his education newsletters. It was an article about unique mascots. There is a school in Montana with a strange looking letter for its mascot. I guess it was the family seal of the woman who first opened the school at the turn of the century. So, to honor her, they kept it as the mascot."
"So the kidnapper gets an education newsletter? What does that prove?"
"I don't think that is the case. It's possible, but the letter on the note is not as big as the one pictured here. Besides, I think it fits into the whole idea of someone associated with the FBI. It's like a hidden clue. He or she knew the information would not be in the data base."
Honey looked at her dubiously. "Okay, what school is it?"
Trixie glanced at the article. "Bolfort High School in Bolfort, Montana."
Honey looked up sharply. "I remember that name! I think I came across it yesterday in one of the files!"
Trixie smiled. "Let me guess-William Bradley Scott. I read it, too. Really, Honey. We had better not be put on background check duty. We'd probably call the same people."
Honey wasn't listening. "Where's the folder?"
"Probably on the sofa. I read it last night."
Honey sifted through the folders, finally finding what she was looking for. "William Bradley Scott. Born in Billings, MT. Attended Bolfort High School. Worked at the Capitol Building and the White House. Dismissed." Honey paused for a moment. "Trixie, it doesn't say why."
Trixie looked over her shoulder. "That's odd. It's not like these files are open to anyone. Maybe we should ask a few questions at the White House."
"Are you crazy? Do we just go up to the front door, flash our badges and say,'Excuse me Mr. President. We'd like to ask you a few questions?'"
"I might if I don't get clearance from Perkins."
Honey just shook her head. "You really want to do background checks, don't you?"
Trixie found herself again pacing in front of an office. This time, however, it was in front of the Oval Office. After talking to Perkins, Trixie and Honey had met with the head of staffing at the White House. The interview had gone nowhere. Completely frustrated, Trixie had been debating putting her original plan into action, when she had received a call from Perkins. The President wished to speak with her and Honey.
Trixie looked over at Honey who was nervously sitting in the corner of the waiting room. Her face had become quite pale and she was fidgeting with the buttons on her navy blue suit. Still, she managed to look good. Trixie sighed a little jealously as she thought about how the three hours of sleep she'd had in the last forty-eight hours had taken it's toll. She was just too tired to deal with her blonde curls, which had been hastily drawn back in a clip. She'd also been too busy to go to the dry cleaner to pick up all of her suits, which she had thought she wouldn't need while on vacation. Not that she really cared that much, but she concluded that one doesn't meet the President everyday. Or excuse him of covering up something, she thought to herself.
Realizing that such thoughts were getting her nowhere, Trixie went over to the chair next to Honey and sat down. "Well, at least we don't have to barge in there."
Too nervous to reply, Honey merely shook her head. Trixie continued, "Hey! We can remind everyone how much we helped the government when we were fourteen by cracking the gun smuggling ring along the Mississippi. That's got to be worth at least one get out of insignificant desk job free card."
Honey gave her a withering glance. "I think you used that up the time we were assisting in that drug ring investigation and you left your watch post to follow some random person on the street."
"He was very suspicious looking. Besides, I managed to follow him to a huge drug deal."
"Which you tried to stop on your own."
"It all worked out. If I hadn't left, we'd probably still be watching the building."
At that moment, the door into the outer office opened. The two women looked at each other.
"Here goes nothing," Trixie muttered under her breath, as they slowly entered the office.
Chapter 6
Honey looked around the famous office that she had only seen in pictures. Even as the daughter of a millionaire who had a lot of friends in the government, she never thought she would actually see it in person--at least not when the President was in the room at the same time.
Honey noticed that even Trixie was looking around in awe. Realizing her friend's nervousness made her feel a little better about the butterflies churning around in her stomach.
They waited while the man behind the desk finished signing the paper in front of him.
Honey took the moment to observe the handsome, middle-aged face. Jack Cooper's dark hair was graying slightly. Deep brown eyes still showed an expressiveness despite the dark circles underneath. It was then that Honey noticed that his face seemed drawn and the way his head hung slightly despite his sincere greeting and the firm handshake each woman received.
Suddenly, Honey was not so sure about what Trixie planned to do. The man was obviously having a difficult time with the disappearance of his daughter. She was certain that Trixie's intentions were good, but she knew that sometimes her friend came across as rather harsh. Her attempts at sending a telepathic message to Trixie to be sensitive were interrupted by the President.
"Ms. Wheeler and Ms. Frayne, thank you for coming. I understand you had a meeting with my head of staffing here at the White House."
Honey was surprised by Trixie's firm, "Yes, sir." How does she do it? she thought. No matter what kind of situation her friend was in, she never let her fear show. In Honey's opinion, that is what made her such a great detective. She wished that she was as good at hiding her feelings. Honey did not trust herself to speak, she was so sure her voice would betray her nervousness.
The President continued, "I would like to inquire about your reasons for asking about William Scott."
"Sir, I'm afraid I can only tell you that we have reason to believe he may be involved in the kidnapping of your daughter."
Honey could hardly believe what she was hearing. She knew her mouth was open, but she could not help it. "Don't you realize who you are speaking to?" she wanted to scream at her friend. Instead, she turned to look at the President.
A look of surprise flashed across his eyes. For a moment he observed the petite blonde in front of him. Eventually, he returned Trixie's bold look. "If you have any knowledge about the whereabouts of my daughter, please tell me."
Trixie would not back down. "I would like to know why William Scott was dismissed."
"You don't trust me."
"Your secrecy doesn't help. I just asked a simple question."
Honey could tell the President was beginning to lose his temper. "The answer is a very personal matter that I am afraid I can't share with you."
"Why? Because you are the President and you don't have to tell me?"
That did it. "Trixie..." Honey started to warn her friend.
At that moment, the door burst open, causing all three occupants of the room to jump. Honey saw a beautiful woman with short, light brown hair enter. Every time Honey had seen pictures of the First Lady, she had looked so put together. Now, the expensive suits and accessories had been replaced by jeans and a flannel shirt. Elizabeth Cooper's eyes were swollen and red and there was an air of vulnerability around her.
Mrs. Cooper walked over to her husband and said, "Just tell them, Jack."
"But, sweetheart..."
"No buts. If it brings back Maggie, I don't care what happens."
Honey stared wide-eyed at Trixie. Through the years, she had come to realize that Trixie was usually right about such things. Still, she had not really accepted that her friend's crazy theory about Maggie Cooper's kidnapping might be true.
Honey took a deep breath and leaned back in her chair. Her nervousness subsided some as curiosity took over. She finally addressed the President, "Why, don't you tell us what happened. We all want to see Maggie back home safe and sound."
Jack Cooper looked at the two women in front of him. After a moment, he spoke. "It's not as bad as I've made you think." He took his wife's hand, gave her a small smile and continued. "William Scott had worked in security at the Capitol. I got to know him during my years as a Representative. When I was elected President, I invited him to come and work at the White House. Will went to work in my wife's office area." He paused for a moment, as if to consider his next words carefully.
Instead, Elizabeth spoke. "Our first few months in the White House were very hard. I had gotten used to being a politician's wife, but nothing could prepare you for this kind of life. Jack was occupied with all of his duties, and I felt like I needed to pursue my own work as a writer, as well as make public appearances and be involved in community service. Sometimes I felt there was no one to talk to. I found myself beginning to turn to Will for advice. He was very caring and interested and we became good friends. Then one day, I came into my office to finish some paperwork. Will was inside the office waiting for me. He said he had a plan for us to run away together.
"I was totally taken by surprise. At first I thought he was kidding and I actually laughed. But he wasn't joking. When I finally realized this, his whole manner had changed. His face had become twisted with rage and he turned bright red." She paused for a moment and took a deep breath. "I've never seen someone's eyes reflect so much hurt and betrayal. It was completely overwhelming."
Elizabeth Cooper continued, "I don't know what I did or said to make William Scott think I loved him. I've racked my brain so many times for an answer. When he first asked me to run away with him, I planned to keep it to myself. Jack was so busy and I wanted to avoid a scandal. But, then he threatened Maggie. At that point, I knew I had to do something. I went to Carl Burns, our head of staffing whom you talked to yesterday. He promised to take care of Will." She started to break down. "Even when Maggie disappeared, I wouldn't allow myself to believe he was involved. I never thought Will would go through with his threats."
Jack Cooper put his arms around his wife and held her. Looking at Honey and Trixie over her shoulder, he apologized. "I'm sorry. But, you can't imagine how horrible it is to lose a child. It's even worse in the eye of the public. Everywhere we go there are reporters asking us question and wanting answers."
Honey's heart went out to these people. Impulsively, she said, "Why don't you go to New York. You can stay with my parents. All of our servants are very trustworthy and Daddy could make sure no one would bother you."
Jack Cooper looked up in surprise. "That's a very kind offer, but it's kind of a pain to have us visit. There has to be room for the secret service and they have to check everything out first, of course."
"It really would be no problem. Manor House is huge and there would be plenty of room for everyone."
"But..."
Trixie jumped in, "Really, sir. All the neighbors are nice, too." Feeling she needed to explain Honey's laughter at her comment, she added, "We grew up next door to each other."
The President was weakening. "Well, it would be nice to get away for a few days..."
"Then it's settled. You can send the Secret Service Agents to check out our home right away. I'll give Daddy a call and let him know to expect you."
After the arrangements were made and with much thanks from Jack and Elizabeth Cooper, Honey and Trixie left the office. Trixie turned to her partner and asked, "Did that just happen? We went from accusing him of covering up information to inviting him to stay in Sleepyside?"
"Apparently," Honey replied. "Now we just have to get the Director to change his mind about our investigation. Ready to do the impossible twice in one day?"
Chapter 7
Trixie looked around the small, crowded hotel room. Assistant Director Perkins had allowed her two other agents. Honey, Trixie, and Agents Rychert and Lewis had flown to Montana that morning and spent most of the day in the small town of Bolfort asking questions. Both of the new agents had just graduated from the Academy and were eager to be involved in a "real" investigation. Trixie felt like telling them that being placed under her direction wasn't much of an honor, but she decided to leave them with the delusions for the moment.
Trixie asked Rychert what he and Lewis had discovered while pretending to be friends of William Scott.
"Well, ma'am," he began. "A woman at the gas station said his place is way out in the country and very hard to find. However, he usually makes an appearance at a local bar every night."
Argh! First my little brother is graduating and now I'm 'ma'am.' Trixie chose to ignore the fact that Honey had broken into a coughing fit to cover up her laughter. She responded to Rychert instead. "Then we'll set up surveillance of the bar and follow him home. Once there, we can attempt to locate Maggie Cooper and go from there."
After the two young men had left, Trixie collapsed on the bed. "Honey, what are we doing? Why am I in charge of this? I don't know how to tell other people what to do. Usually, I just end of following my instinct, instead of creating a huge plan. You would think the FBI would have enough sense to put someone else in charge at this point."
Honey sat down next to Trixie. "You don't give yourself enough credit, Trixie. No one else even gave the idea of a non-terrorist solution to Maggie Cooper's disappearance a second thought. And the connection with that "b" was amazing. I'd like to see Director Riley do that." Honey paused for a moment as a smile played upon her lips. "Besides, Rychert and Lewis seem to think you know a lot...ma'am." Honey moved just in time to miss the pillow which slammed into the wall behind her.
Trixie and Honey entered the bar at promptly eight-thirty in the evening. Looking around at the dim, smoky interior, Honey rolled her eyes at her partner.
I know what you mean, Trixie thought.This place is a real dive.
The floor was made of cold, gray cement and was sticky from too many beer spills. A worn pool table sat in one corner of the room.
In the other corner, a flickering neon sign advertising beer, lit up every other letter, added to the dinginess. Still, despite the surroundings, the bar was quite busy.
"Do you see him?" Honey whispered.
"I don't think he's here yet, unless he's in the men's room and in that case, I'll leave him in peace until he comes out."
Honey's laughter was cut short, as she listened to the earpiece she was wearing. "Lewis and Rychert aren't getting great reception on us in here. I'm going to run out and see if we can get this fixed before our boy shows up."
Trixie simply nodded as she continued to scan the crowd. As Honey left, Trixie wandered over to the bar and ordered a drink. As she thought of the last time she had been out, an involuntary smile crept across her lips. Jim had been sitting across from her at the kitchen table correcting papers, while she had been finishing up paper work from a case. To her surprise, he had thrown down his pen and said to her, "I'm not doing this tonight. Let's go out." It had been a wonderful evening with just the two of them-something she had come to appreciate.
Suddenly, Trixie wanted nothing more than to find Maggie Cooper and go home.
"That's a lonely person's drink you've got there." Trixie was startled into the present by a voice behind her. "How about making a friend tonight?"
Trixie rolled her eyes. Not now. She turned around.
As she began to unleash the biting retort which was poised on the end of her tongue, she was surprised to find herself staring into the eyes of William Scott. Hoping that he had not noticed the look of shock which had overcome her face for a moment, Trixie immediately formed a new plan. Oh Jim, please forgive me for this one, she thought quickly. Then she turned on a bewitching smile.
Chapter 8
As Trixie jumped down out of the truck, she looked at her surroundings. What am I doing? she asked herself. We drove for at least a half hour and now we're out in the middle of nowhere. There is no way Honey and the others will find me.
Trixie had tried to stall William for awhile, waiting for her friend to come back and realize the situation. However, the minutes passed and Honey did not appear. Finally, she could not wait any longer. To make things worse, he had parked in the back and they had gone out a side door, away from where Honey, Lewis and Rychert were sitting out front. Trixie realized that if she wanted to save Maggie Cooper, she would have to do it herself.
Trixie followed William into the old house. Taking her coat, he led her into the living room. Sitting down on the couch, she noticed he was staring at her. Think fast, Trix. How are you going to get out of this one? As he started to walk over to join her on the couch, she gave him what she hoped was a properly seductive smile. "Why don't you go get us something to drink?" she said.
Trixie waited a few moments to make sure that William was in the kitchen. Peering around the corner to check that he was occupied, Trixie silently moved towards the stairs.
At least if I get caught up here without finding Maggie, I can think up some kind of excuse, she thought. She shuddered as she thought of what kind of excuse that could be. Not wanted to think about that, she started to ascend to the second floor.
Years of sneaking up and down the old, squeaky staircase at Crabapple Farm had given her enough practice to make it up the steps without a sound. Glancing behind her to make sure that William had not emerged from the kitchen, she started down the dark hallway, guided only by the moonlight which crept in the single window.
Okay, Trix. Two doors on each side. Unless he stuck her in the basement, she has to be here somewhere. Fumbling for a door handle, she entered the first room. Except for a bed against the far wall, the room was completely empty. Moving to the next room, Trixie opened the door quickly. Her heart leaped into her throat as the silence was pierced by a loud creak. Oh Gosh! He had to hear that! Backing out of the room, she was prepared to head back down the stairs, when she heard a sound come from a room across the hall.
Opening the door, she found the little girl lying on the bed. Her wrists and ankles were tied together and a gag was stuck in her mouth.
What kind of lunatic does this to a child! she thought as she ran over to the bed.
Trixie saw fear in the little girl's eyes as she started to untie the ropes which bound her to the bed. "Shhhhh! It's okay," Trixie whispered. "I'm going to get us out of here. But, you're going to have to be very quiet." The little girl nodded, as Trixie continued her attempts to free her.
For what seemed like an eternity, Trixie fumbled with the knots until finally Maggie was free. Helping the girl to sit up, she rubbed her wrists and ankles to try to get the circulation flowing again.
Suddenly, she heard a loud crash and cursing downstairs. As thunderous footsteps approached the room, Trixie looked around for an escape. There was a window in the room, but with a seven-year-old in tow, she could not jump from the second floor. They were trapped!
Honey watched quietly as Thomas worked on the recording device. "Damn it!" he yelled as the wire he was working on split in two. Then turning apologetically to Honey, he said, "These things never seem to work when you need them. I'll go back to the hotel and get another one."
Honey shrugged her shoulders. He had messed around with wire system for such a long time already that the whole idea of it seemed pointless to her. I've got to learn to do this stuff myself. I'm sure I could have figured the thing out by now.
Walking over to the car where Rychert was watching the entrance, she tapped on the window. "Have you seen him enter, yet?" she asked. "Not yet. Maybe he decided to take the night off."
Honey had to admit the thought had crossed her mind. "I'm going to go around to the back door and then get Trixie. I think we'll be better off trying to find his place on our own."
Honey moved quickly across the parking lot. Rounding the corner, she stopped dead in her tracks. Ducking back around the side and pressing herself against the wall, she watched as Trixie got into a beat up pick up truck with none other than William Scott.
What does she think she's doing!?! Honey thought. This is nuts even for Trixie.
Racing back over to the car, she jumped in and told Rychert to follow the truck.
William Scott was feeling lucky. He had never thought the beautiful, blonde woman he had approached would ever leave with him. Most women told him off--if they didn't ignore him completely. They just didn't realize he had the potential to be one of the greatest men ever.
He should have had it all - a great job in the FBI, or even as head of security at the White House, as well as a beautiful wife. Elizabeth Cooper had been his dream. She had shown she could be an asset to a man in a position of power. However, she had turned him down. He had not expected that. What was worse, he had not expected to be turned down for entry into the FBI Academy.
I'll show them, he thought. I'll show everyone. Elizabeth's precious Maggie is gone and the FBI is spending all their time checking out terrorists. How stupid can they get? He had practically left his calling card with that silly "B" on the note. He knew it was not in the database. After years of hacking, he knew their system better than they did. With a hint of pride, he thought, I would have figured it out by now. That's why this woman tonight is so lucky.
Picking up the drinks, he returned to the living room, only to find she was no longer there. Noticing her coat was still in the corner of the room, he concluded she could not have left. Despite the fact that it was late May, it was too cold to be outside for long without a jacket. Besides, she'd be stupid for walking, he thought. There's no one around for miles.
He put down the drinks and went over to her coat. Picking it up, he started rummaging through the pockets. The moment he put his hand on the smooth leather, he knew what he had found. It had been his dream to have one. Slowly pulling it out, he opened the object. "Special Agent Beatrix Frayne," he murmured. She was FBI. They let her into the FBI. They turned him down. She had tricked him. He felt the anger start to rise. Suddenly, he lost control. Grabbing the crystal lamp, which happened to be the nearest thing to him, he threw it to the ground, cursing loudly. He grabbed the gun he kept in the drawer and ran up the stairs.
Trixie gasped as William Scott entered the room. Elizabeth Cooper had been right. She had never seen anyone with such hatred and hurt in his eyes. Instinctively, she put Maggie behind her, as if to shield her from his stare - as well as the gun he held in his hand.
Come on, Trixie, she thought. Think! You have the life of a seven-year-old to think about now. You have to calm him down enough to give you an opportunity to escape.
"You b----!" he screamed, as he stormed into the room. "You think you are so smart because you are FBI. But they know nothing! Nothing!"
Trixie made the quick decision to flatter him. "You're right. I thought I could try to outwit you, but obviously I'm way out of my league here. I guess you can tie us back up, now." Anything that makes you put down that gun.
"Page 239. Chapter 12, Hostage Situations. 'Agree with the gunman at all cost when life is at stake.' Don't try it. I know that book better than anyone, and they still turned me down."
Trixie was dumbfounded. Obsess much? she felt like asking. Instead, she replied, "So the FBI turned you down. Who needs them? Why not try somewhere else - somewhere that appreciated your talents."
"The FBI needs me!! They only mess up investigations. Just like you messed up this one. Face it. You just cost Maggie Cooper her life." He paused, as a menacing smile formed on his lips. "But, she gets to watch you die first." With that he raised the gun and placed it against Trixie's head.
Trixie swallowed hard and tried desperately to come up with an escape plan. However, she could think of no way to get away without putting Maggie into danger.
Feeling the coolness of the metal barrel as he placed it against her temple, Trixie realized there was no way out. She closed her eyes and prepared herself for the worst. What I wouldn't give to be home right now! she thought. There were so many things she needed to tell her friends and family. And she would miss her brother's graduation.
Deep in thought, Trixie barely heard the commotion as a single gunshot pierced the night.
Chapter 9
So this is what it feels like to be dead, Trixie thought. Strangely, it didn't seem too different than being alive. She had expected at least a brief moment of pain from a gun shot through the head.
Suddenly, Trixie became aware of the sobbing, shaking body which had wrapped its arms around her waist. Opening her eyes, a strange sight beheld her. Right in front of her was William Scott thrashing around on the floor and holding his bleeding hand. Agent Rychert stood above him and was attempting to arrest him. Turning her head slightly, Trixie noticed Honey slowly lowering her gun as she leaned up against the wall for support. The two friends looked at each other. Honey shook her head and let out the breath which she had been holding. Trixie wished she could come up with some way to express her feelings to her friend. Instead, she merely mouthed the words "Thank you." A look of understanding passed between the two of them as Honey merely nodded.
Trixie turned her attention to the little girl who was still holding on to her tightly. Sinking to the floor, Trixie took Maggie into her arms. "I want my mommy," the girl managed to say between her sobs.
"Don't worry, sweetheart." Trixie crooned. "You'll get to see her very soon."
It was a joyous reunion at the small, private airport outside of Sleepyside, New York. As William Scott was taken into custody, a plane was already in the air with Honey, Trixie and Maggie. Trixie watched as Jack and Elizabeth Cooper immediately ran up to their daughter, taking her into their arms. Trixie smiled with pride as the three of them left with Brian Belden, who was a pediatrician in New York. Trixie knew that Maggie could be in no better care.
She was so engrossed in watching them, that she barely felt the tap on her shoulder.
"Excuse me. I'm looking for my wife. She's about your height, has blonde curly hair, and is about the greatest detective ever."
"Jim!"
Trixie threw her arms around him and for the next few minutes, they forgot that they were at an airfield surrounded by federal and Secret Service agents. As they finally pulled apart, he kissed her forehead and whispered, "I've really missed you."
Trixie leaned back in her chair and observed the scene around her. Bobby and Larry and Terry Lynch had graduated earlier that evening and were now at the all night party Sleepyside High School held for its graduates. The Bob-Whites were taking the opportunity to catch up with one another.
Wimpy's really hasn't changed much at all, she thought. Each of the Bob-Whites sat at their usual table with her. She could almost imagine that they were back in high school. Except we all look a lot older.
Brian was just finishing his residency at a hospital in New York. He had been interviewing with different offices in the area, but Trixie knew that he would end up in Sleepyside with Dr. Ferris. As she watched Honey and Brian, she smiled and realized that she would probably lose her partner to Sleepyside, too, when that happened. That is, if Jim and I don't move here, too. It was times like then, that no other place really seemed like home to her.
Di also lived in New York where she had worked her way up in the acquisitions area of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Her knowledge of art, along with her many connections and sweet personality, had allowed her to land several impressive works for the museum and she was quickly gaining recognition within the art community.
Mart had flown in from Africa that very day. He had taken his degree in agriculture and gone to help establish good farming practices. It was the program's goal to stop the expansion of the desert in the area. It had been a long time since Trixie had seen Mart, but they had quickly fallen back into their friendly teasing.
Dan had surprised everyone by being the lone Bob-White to remain in Sleepyside. He had gone to work for Sergeant Molinson and the Sleepyside Police Department. Working with the youth in the area of Hawthorne Street, he had proven himself to have an amazing ability to help at risk kids see the other choices they had in their lives away from drugs and violence.
Honey was telling everyone the story of their investigation. When she got to the part where William Scott had the gun to Trixie's head, Trixie received her usual looks of admonition from her brothers and Jim. As she prepared herself for a brief lecture, she thought to herself, Yup, some things never change.
Back at Manor House, Jim and Trixie said goodnight to Honey and went to their room.
"So, he had a gun to your head, huh?"
Trixie looked at him sheepishly. "Kind of," she replied after a brief hesitation.
"Kind of? Is that your idea of being careful?" Then, he relented slightly and kissed her forehead.
He slipped his arms around her waist, as she replied, "I'm always careful."
"What am I going to do with you?" he said. Looking deep into his green eyes, she noticed the teasing glint.
Wrapping her arms around his neck, she replied, "Well..."
The End