“Shhhhhh,” the agents cautioned with forefingers across their lips. “Can all of you walk? They asked as they looked around helping each out of their prison.
One Mexican man spoke up. “All but Java.” Pointing to a young man in the corner. “His leg is broken.”
“We are here to rescue you. Do you see the men with FBI on their uniform? Follow them and they will take you to a waiting van.”
The message was relayed in Spanish and they men dragged themselves to freedom. Agent Walters carried Java to the van.
When the men were safe in the van Agent Harris and his agents surrounded the shack. Agent Harris yelled. “FBI as his agents knocked down the door to the shack.
“Don’t shoot, don’t shoot!” They begged with their hands held high. The agents handcuffed the two Coyotes and put them in separate vehicles.
Agent Harris told the two agents and their partners who were holding the Mexicans to take them to Baker.
“Why Baker?” Agent Parker asked.
“Just a hunch.” he answered. “Just a hunch.”
Agent Harris knew no one in this area would chance visiting the Mexicans, but if they were out of town they would feel safe in visiting them. He figured he might get to the source of the operations. It was just a hunch.
Lord only knows how many hunches he’s had over the past couple years.
Agent Harris took over the Coopersville operation shortly after his wife was killed by a drunk driver in a head-on collision. Agent Bill Harris was despondent and thought if he worked undercover and got away from the home with all the memories he would deal better with his loss. He still thought a lot about his college sweetheart but knew his life must go on. His two sons are living with their uncle and aunt in Austin, Texas. Jacob is a junior and Joshua a senior in high school. Both boys wanted to finish out their high school years before joining their dad. Harris has always told his sons we don’t know what fate will bring us, always do right and be proud of who you are. And always look to the man upstairs when life fails you.
The dozen Mexicans were taken to the local hospital for observation. They were all dehydrated and suffering from malnutrition. The doctors set Java’s left arm and he is on the mend. Eleven of the Mexicans were returned to Mexico. Hopefully, they won’t make another try to cross the border but the way life is in Mexico they might. Manuel, the spokesman for the dozen Mexicans was asked to stay in the states to be an informant. He graciously agreed. He will attempt to infiltrate the local community bringing information back to the FBI.
Agent Parker came down the hall with a piece of paper in his hand.
“Agent Harris, I can’t believe what I’m reading.” He muttered as he looked over the paper.
“What do you have there?” Agent Harris asked.
“It’s the printout on Ron and Susan Mills.” Shaking his head. “These two have a clean record. They are graduates from Oklahoma State. Susan is a merchandiser and worked for a large department store. Ron is an architect and an engineer. They both left their jobs about six months ago.” Agent Parker nodded his head as he read the printout to Agent Harris.
“This is puzzling to me. Their names are on the Fifth Street utility service. I wonder if their name is on the rental agreement.” Agent Harris said pushing back in his chair.
“Let’s keep an eye on them. They must have a connection with the ‘Coyotes’.” Agent Harris said.
The FBI set Manuel up in a rundown apartment. Manuel kept his eyes and ears open to the goings on in town. He started to frequent the local bar. Bragged about the company he kept in Mexico. He worked during the early morning hours at Charlie’s Truck Stop pumping diesel for the truckers. Manuel slept most of the day and by early evening he was at the bar playing pool and shooting bull with the locals. Manuel made himself available for anyone to talk with him, although it seemed the locals didn’t want to trust him with any information.
The monthly rental payments on the Fifth Street house stopped shortly after the raid. Mark Brandon, the owner said he received a money order every month from the Mill’s until the raid.
Agent Parker contacted the Mill’s and brought them into the office for some questioning. After interrogating them for some time they confided in Agent Parker. Seems Paul and Nellie, the secondhand store owners are related to the Mill’s. When they stopped hearing from them they knew something had happened to them, they quit their jobs and headed for Coopersville in hopes of finding a lead to their where bouts.
After renting the house on Fifth Street they were unable to find work. They were aware Paul and Nellie made available their store for the Mexicans to hide if they escaped from the Coyotes. Their funds came to an end and they could not pay the rent on Fifth Street. Ron went to Charlie’s truck Stop in search of a job where a man approached him and told him he might be able to help. He said he needed a home but couldn’t rent anything because he had bad credit. If Ron would allow him to live in his house and leave the utilities on he would pay his rent at the apartment and keep the rent and utilities paid at the Fifth Street house. Ron agreed and he and Susan moved to the apartment. Their rent has been paid every month. They have not seen the man since and do not know his name. Soon after the raid the rental payments stopped.
Ron and Susan shared with Agent Parker all they knew about Paul and Nellie. They believe the Coyotes learned they were giving refuge to the escaping Mexicans and did away with them. Otherwise, Paul and Nellie would make contact with them.
TEN
Juan and Maria rose early. It was the day they were planning to pickup Jose. The hospital called yesterday telling them Jose would be released today. The nurse told them to check after nine in the morning. Upon their arrival at the hospital. Jose was squirming and ready to be fed. Maria sat in the big rocker hopefully for the last time. She hoped at his next feeding she would be rocking him in her new mahogany rocker at home. Jose sucked his bottle so fast his little mouth and chin was dripping with milk.
“He always gets in a hurry when he’s sucking his bottle.” the nurse told Maria.
“I know, he always drools his milk when I feed him too.” Maria replied wiping the milk from Jose’s chin.
“You might as well plan on using a lot of bibs.” the nurse told her. Maria didn’t mind the extra laundry. She wanted her son home in her arms.
“Maria,” the charge nurse said, “we’ve all come to love Jose. He’s such a sweet boy. We have a little gift for him.” She said as her voice choked.
The young Candy Stripper, a volunteer in her red and white uniform came bouncing in the room with a package and a bouquet of balloons tangled up in the door.
“Here you go Maria.” The young girl in the red and white said handing her a package.
“Oh my, you guys shouldn’t have but it’s so nice of you.” Maria said smiling from ear to ear.
“Open it, open It.” the nurses said in unison.
Ella gently tore the paper from its box. She opened the box and there was a crocheted blanket in shades of blue. Maria held it to her chest.
“This is so nice, it’s beautiful. Thank you ladies. You are so kind. Everyone I’ve met is so nice.” she said with tears washing her face.
“The charge nurse spoke up. We want you to know every stitch is made with love. We took turns on our breaks crocheting the blanket.”
Maria began to weep. “I’m so blessed. If I’m dreaming, please don’t pinch me.”
When the three were shopping they neglected to purchase a car seat and stroller. Ella called the nursery furniture store and asked the sales clerk to put in on her and ship it UPS. Thankfully, the car seat and stroller was delivered yesterday. Juan spent over an hour last night fitting the car seat in the back seat of the truck.
“I’m planning to take Jose out in his stroller every day when the weather is nice. The long drive will be a good place to walk and the trees lining the drive will give us plenty shade.” Maria said. “Bundle him up tight on these cold days.” Ella reminded her.
The nurse gave Maria and Juan the instructions Doctor Burnette left with her. They asked plenty of questions and the nurse patiently answered them. They dressed Jose and wrapped him in the blue crocheted blanket. Maria pressed Jose against her body with his head looking over her shoulder. As she walked out the nursery the nurses were pinching his little cheeks and telling him good-bye.
Juan ran ahead and opened every door. As they exited through the last door, Maria said. “I hope Jose never has to be here again.”
“Me too.” Juan said as he hurried to open the truck door.
On the passenger side of the truck the back door opened. Maria climbed in the back seat and Juan handed Jose to the car seat. They both buckled Jose in his very own seat. Maria rode in the back seat as they traveled to their new home.
Ella has a ‘Welcome Home’ sign hanging over the fireplace. A spread of snacks covered the table and sparkling cider was the celebrating drink. After a short while Maria took Jose up to their room and tucked him in for his first night home. Maria had a smile on her face with every step she took as she came downstairs.
“Is he asleep?” Juan asked.
“Yes, he’s asleep.” Maria smiled. It feels so good to have our family complete.”
Ella excused herself and retired to her room. She remembered to close the gapping drape, sat down in her moss green Queen Anne chair slipping her feet from her size ten shoes. She ran a hot bath, pulled her shirt over her head and threw it in the hamper. Kicking her jeans off she unhooked her bra allowing her breast to breathe. She pulled her undies off and sat on the side of the bear claw tub thinking about her new life. Soon the water cooled and she threw her long slim legs over the side of the tub and slowly slides into the water with only her head above the water line. Bubbles surrounded her some falling to the floor. She relaxed and thought of her life. Where she had been and where she was going.
As Ella closed her tired eyes she remembers back to her high school days. Dating only one guy, Phil Young. She wondered where he was and if his life was happy and fulfilled. She tries to erase him from her mind but thoughts of Phil linger on and on. Ella’s big toe caught the ring on the stopper and she flipped the drain open. The water started to stream down the pipes. As the water disappeared from the tub, she noticed how the water wrinkled her skin. Oh my, is this what I have to look forward to when I’m old? She thought shrugging her shoulders in disgust. She threw her legs over the side of the tub wrapping a towel around her slim body, drying herself as she tucks the towel in above her breasts. Looking in the mirror she dabs on moisturizer and takes the clip from her hair, she combed her fingers through her hair and let it fall to her shoulders. She slips on a warm gown and crawls into her big empty bed. She hadn’t shared her bed with a man since that night in Linville. Staying married wasn’t fair to Frank. Frank deserved a woman that loved him and only him. She and Frank mutually agreed to divorce and go their separate ways. Although they promised each other if either needed help they could feel free to call on the other.
Ella’s mother died from a massive heat attack shortly after Ella and Frank’s divorce was finalized. Frank immediately came to Ella’s rescue when she informed him of her mother’s demise. It was expected of her to be in Linville for a few days before the service to take care of the final arrangements. Ella didn’t want to face all the duties of an only child. She felt overwhelmed with the thoughts of making the final decisions. She hadn’t talked with her mother concerning her estate. She had no reason to feel the time was drawing near.
Ella and Frank arrived in Linville at about the same time. Frank waited at the funeral home lawn for Ella. Moore Funeral Home would be taking care of the service just as they did for her Dad. Frank was chewing on a stem of Bermuda grass when Ella drove up.
“You still driving that ole’ station wagon?” He said as he took her in his arms and held her close.
Ella gently tilted her head back and said, “You’re a sight for sore eyes. Thank you for coming to my rescue.”
“Isn’t that what we promised each in our divorce?” Frank smiled. “Let’s take care of your business here, and then I will buy dinner.” Frank suggested as he took Ella’s hand and walked her to the office.
Mr. Ferguson, being an attorney took care of all the legal matters. The funeral arrangements were in order for Mrs. Ferguson’s. Ella had to identify the body and sign a lot of papers.
“That was easy.” she whispered to Frank. “Dad always took care of Mom right down to her final hour.”
The service was held in the Moore Chapel. It was full with friends expressing their final respect for a lady with a big heart. Ella and Frank were last to enter the chapel. Ella dressed in a black form fitting dress with a wide brimmed black hat. She entered the chapel on Frank’s arm. Proudly walked to the front pew looking straight ahead with her shoulders back. Ella came from proud parents. They would be proud of their daughter even from the grave. Everyone stared, some with compassion and others were more interested in who the guy might be. Mrs. Ferguson’s pastor gave the benediction. Her long time girlfriend Shirley sang a melody of songs.
The funeral procession was a long quiet drive, Ella and Frank sat alone in the big black family car. Only a few attended the interment. Mrs. Ferguson’s pastor of many years said a few words and conc䥄啎"aded the service. Frank held tight to Ella’s arm as she picked a red rose from the casket spray, smelled its pungent fragrance, kissed the casket and turned to the man holding her steady. They quickly aimed their steps in the direction of the family car.
As Ella and Frank walked toward the family car an older gentleman approached them and put out his hand.
“I’m Mr. Jenkins, attorney in charge of your mother’s estate.” He said as they exchanged hand shakes.
“Good to meet you, Mr. Jenkins.” Ella and Frank said in harmony.
“I wasn’t sure how to contact you that’s why I’m here. Could you stop by my office when you find the time? I know this is a very difficult time in your life but there’s legal matters needing your attention.” He told her.
“I understand, Ella said, “I will call your office for an appointment.” She promised.
“Thanks again I will be seeing you this week sometime.” Ella said as she and Frank continued their walk to the big black family car.
Frank and Ella enjoyed a nice dinner and caught up on all that was going on in their lives. Frank was enjoying living in Northern California. He had someone special in his life, Ella was happy for him. She wished she had someone special in her life but knew that was just a dream. They laughed and talked for hours before retiring to their rooms.
“Let’s have breakfast before I head out tomorrow.” Frank suggested.
“How about 8:00 at the local Denny’s?” Ella laughed as she waved a good-bye and walked few steps to her room.
“Good night pretty lady.” Frank said with a smile and a wave.
Morning came without Ella waking during the night. She was thankful her body had rested. She and Frank met for breakfast. They laughed over the crazy things they did when they were married. They finished with breakfast and Frank grabbed the check, laid his credit card on the tray.
“I’ll get breakfast.” Ella told him. “You’ll do no such thing young lady. This might be our last breakfast together and I don’t want to leave owing you anything.” Frank said.
Frank and Ella said their good-bye’s each planting a kiss on the others cheek with a big hug. Frank got in his sports car and drove away. Ella watched Frank, a man she loved but not enough drive away.
Ella dug Mr. Jenkins card from the bottom of her purse. Looking at the address as she walked to her room she thought. HmmM….his office is in the nicest building in Linville. Ella dialed the office to set up an appointment.
“Tomorrow at 1:00 will be fine with me.” she told the receptionist. This would give Ella time to go out to the house today and look around. Her plans were to drive home right after the meeting with the attorney. She had many things to attend t
o, when she got back to Coopersville.
The driveway up to the house seemed shorter than she remembered. The yard was well manicured just as dad always like it. Ella felt like if she blinked mom and dad would be waiting on the front porch waving a ‘hello’. She shook it off, stopped the car, cut the engine, and lay her head back on the headrest and sat frozen in time. Memories raced through her mind. It was going to be difficult to walk in that house. I should have had Frank join me, she thought. As the thought of Frank being with her raced through her thoughts she heard a car coming up the drive.
“Who could that be?” she thought.
She stepped from her car as the speeding car came to a stop, out stepped Frank.
“I couldn’t let you do this alone.” he yelled to her. “I called the hotel; they said you left about 10:00 this morning. I figured you were heading out here.” Frank said as he slowly took her hand.
“Frank you are the most caring man I know. Why did I let you go?” Ella said, with the question in her mind spilling out of her mouth before she could hold it back. Frank smile.
Hand in hand they made the final steps to the big front door. As Ella stood in the doorway she had an ’out of body’ experience. Ella saw her dad sitting on the front porch rocker. He always enjoyed sitting on the porch watching the humming birds feasting on the nectar from the humming bird feeder. He hung the feeder from the porch beam when Ella was just a girl. Her mom was standing in the rose garden holding a long stem red rose. She loved her rose garden. Ella looked down the long drive and saw a handsome young man coming up the drive in a ‘57 Chevy. Ella shook herself to regain possession of her thoughts.
Frank took the key from Ella’s trembling hand and unlocked the door, he gave it a push and it slowly swung open. Frank stepped back as any gentleman would. Ella held the door knob in her fist and leaned on the door frame. Tears began to stream down her face. This being the first tears of sorrow to wet her face since learning of her mother‘s death. Her body trembled and she let out cries of despair. Ella was an only child and now she was truly alone.
THE BLUE STALKER Page 8