The Power to See

by Jennifer Anne Davis

  His partner reached a door on their left first. Pushing open the door, each man entered covering one another. Nothing. Only two cots serving as beds. Back out in the hall, the two other teams entered another section of the sub. Taking a deep breath, trying to keep his hands steady, Matt reached for the next doorknob. He threw open the door and both he and his partner entered.

  There was a man lying on a cot, staring up at the ceiling.

  “Hands in the air!” Matt yelled.

  The man smiled and then complied. He hoisted himself off the cot, arms in the air.

  It was Salazar.

  Matt recognized him from the picture at Phillip’s house. He looked old for someone his age. Must be the stress.

  “We finally meet,” Salazar said.

  Another agent read him his rights. Matt didn’t respond. He simply stared into Brianna’s father’s eyes. It always amazed him how normal some of these men appeared. Salazar looked like a regular businessman—not at all like a vicious killer.

  Matt escorted Salazar from the sub and onto a boat while several other agents took possession of the sub.

  “Brianna will be devastated her father has been arrested,” Salazar said.

  Matt refused to answer him. He led Salazar to a seat in the back of the boat.

  “It’s a good thing Dominic is with her. I spoke to him just a few minutes ago.” Salazar smiled.

  Matt remembered seeing a cell phone lying on the cot.

  “Wonder what she was doing at the pier in the first place,” Salazar said, folding his hands together in contemplation.

  Matt’s heart stopped. How did Salazar know? Matt had to get to Brianna and save her. Damn Salazar! The timing must have been off—her bodyguards or something. And did Dominic change his mind? Dominic wasn’t supposed to be at the pier—he was supposed to be at Salazar’s residence.

  ***

  Brianna ran down Crystal pier, her heart pounding. If she managed to make it to the end of the pier, all she had to do was jump. The impact from the rough ocean below was enough to hurt her. Once she hit the water, the current would take over. If she survived, she would have successfully faked her own death and be given a chance at a real life. Running as fast as she could, smiling, she wondered which fate awaited her.

  Once Brianna reached the end of the hotel cottages, the pier narrowed and it was like hitting a brick wall. The howling wind viciously pushed against her body. Fighting for each step she took, she willed herself forward. Her hair tossed, her eyes teared. Brianna tried to keep her head down, to lessen the pain; however, looking down only increased her fear. The wooden planks of the pier were far enough apart to reveal the equally turbulent ocean below. The waves thrashed against the pilings and against the wind.

  At the end of the pier, Brianna grabbed the rail. At the sight of the No Diving sign, she laughed, knowing that this was exactly what she was going to do, and unable to imagine why anyone would be crazy enough to jump from this location. Standing there, the entire pier swayed with the wind. Brianna shook as the cold air ripped through her. Peeking over the edge, she shuddered when she saw the two-story drop to the turbulent water below.

  Brianna’s stomach churned and she hoped Chris was there waiting for her as planned with the underwater scooter and air tank. She spotted the boat about a mile from the pier barely visible in the night.

  ***

  Matt’s cell rang. It was a text from Jeff—the agent on the boat waiting for Chris and Brianna. It said there was some commotion on the pier and no sign of her having jumped. Something was wrong—it was taking too long.

  There wasn’t time to take the boat back to the Coast Guard station. Matt needed to get on shore immediately. Running to the side of the boat, Matt climbed down the ladder to the Zodiac. He released the tether and headed directly toward the beach. Once he hit the sand, several agents approached him and Matt waved them all off.

  “I need a car!” he yelled.

  An agent tossed him a set of keys. Two minutes later, Matt was driving down La Jolla Boulevard followed by several additional DEA agents. Turning onto Mission Boulevard, Matt had a sinking sensation it was too late. If Dominic did anything to hurt her—Matt would kill him.

  ***

  There was a faint laugh behind Brianna. She turned to find Dominic standing a foot from her with his arms folded across his chest. What the hell was he doing there?

  “Gonna jump? Kill yourself? I don’t think so. I won’t let you.” How did he know about her plan? “Oh, don’t look so confused, love.” He glanced to the bodyguards standing behind him.

  The cold wind whirled around them as the waves viciously crashed against the pier. The pier swayed in the wind.

  Brianna took a step back, hitting the railing. Her fingers seized it, trying to steady herself. If she could just climb over, then all she had to do was jump. Chris was down there waiting for her. His air tank would only last so long.

  Dominic reached out and grabbed ahold of her arm. His fingers began to squeeze until it felt like they would pierce her flesh.

  “Let go of me,” she demanded.

  Dominic’s foot slammed down on hers. Brianna screamed. Was Dominic going to kill her? Were her bodyguards just going to stand by and watch?

  “I want you to come with me, now,” Dominic said.

  “You’re hurting me.”

  Dominic released her foot. His free hand came up, grabbing her other arm. His black beady eyes bore into hers. “Salazar wants his heir.”

  “I would rather die,” she spit.

  “What are you doing here?” he asked, shaking her body. “Were you planning on killing yourself?”

  “Let go!” she screamed. “I hate you! You and my father are sick and twisted.” She struggled to free her arms. His grip tightened. “I would rather die than spend another day with you.”

  Dominic snarled.

  ***

  Matt drove the car right to the entrance of the pier. He opened the door and ran from the car. His feet slammed on the wooden planks of the pier as he sprinted toward the end, knocking several people out of his way.

  Where the hotel ended and the pier narrowed, two of Brianna’s bodyguards stood, preventing Matt from passing. Reaching into his back pocket, Matt showed his DEA badge. “You’re all under arrest.” A handful of agents stood behind Matt with their weapons drawn. “Hands in the air and move out of my way.” Matt shoved his way past them. Figures loomed in the distance—Brianna and Dominic. Ten feet away from them, additional bodyguards formed a protective barrier.

  ***

  “Let go! You’re hurting me!” Brianna yelled.

  Dominic laughed, pulling her into his arms. “This is where we first met.”

  “Are you crazy? What’s wrong with you? Ever since Claire—”

  Wrong thing to say. His body went rigid and his right hand slid up to cradle the back of her head. Ever so gently, his fingers wove in her hair and then with one quick movement, he forced her head backward, tugging her hair.

  Dominic jerked his head to the side. Matt was heading directly for them. Brianna was ecstatic to see Matt, but what was he doing there? Did they arrest Salazar or did something go wrong?

  Matt pulled out his badge along with a gun. “Dominic Bennett—you’re under arrest. Step away from Brianna.”

  Matt and Dominic’s eyes locked, neither one moving. The only sound was the roaring ocean below. Dominic released Brianna and shoved her backwards. She lost her balance and hit the railing, falling to her knees. Matt didn’t flinch—he kept his gun on Dominic. DEA agents arrested the bodyguards. Everything must have gone according to plan on Matt’s end. The only hold-up was Brianna.

  Even though her back throbbed, she pulled herself onto her feet. She had to get over the railing and jump before Dominic noticed what she was trying to do. Matt moved toward Dominic, his gun still drawn, arm steady. They were only two feet apart.

  “So we meet again,” Dominic said. He glanced toward the bodyguards who were being han
dcuffed. “What are you doing here, Matt?” he spoke loud enough for everyone to hear.

  “Did you change your mind?” Matt quietly asked.

  “I haven’t. Just a slight change of plans,” Dominic whispered, his head nodding toward the bodyguards who were now handcuffed, lined up, and being read their rights.

  “Let’s get this show over with. Man, this is going to hurt.”

  Brianna was utterly confused. What in the hell were they talking about?

  The four agents had their hands full with the six bodyguards.

  Dominic lunged and Matt’s gun went flying from his hands. Both men fell to the ground. Dominic climbed on top of Matt, wrapping his hands around Matt’s neck. Matt punched Dominic’s kidneys. The second Dominic’s arms went slack, Matt rammed his fists into Dominic, sending him flying backwards onto his back. Both men sprang to their feet, heaving.

  They circled one another like wild beasts, ready to attack.

  “There’s no use fighting, Dominic. We’ve already arrested Salazar. He’s in custody right now.”

  Matt swung his right leg, but missed Dominic who managed to punch Matt’s jaw. Matt staggered backward.

  “What do you want with Bri?” Matt rubbed his jaw. A trickle of blood was now visible. He glanced back at the other DEA agents. The bodyguards were watching Dominic and Matt fight, the agents all had guns drawn. Matt raised his hand, stopping them. “I got this,” he said.

  Dominic smiled then threw another punch, hitting Matt in the nose. Blood splattered across his shirt. The groan from Matt wasn’t good.

  “I’ve dreamed about smashing your face in, you bastard!” Dominic snarled. He hit Matt in the gut. Matt doubled over. Dominic turned and kicked him, his foot clipping Matt’s shoulder.

  Brianna turned, unable to watch any more. This might be her only chance. She climbed over the railing. Perched on the edge, she let go as the wind swayed her body. Saying a fast prayer, she jumped.

  ***

  The rushing air was like sandpaper against Brianna’s skin. When she hit the water, terror consumed her. She waved her arms frantically, trying to gain some sense of direction. It was so cold her body went numb. Where was Chris? He said he’d be waiting with an air tank and underwater scooter.

  Her lungs burned. The water was pitch black and loud—she hadn’t expected the noise. She was afraid the current would push her into one of the posts supporting the pier. She needed air. Her legs wanted to kick so she’d surface. She couldn’t do this any longer. A hand reached for her waist. Something was shoved into her mouth. Brianna sucked in a gulp of air. It was a mouth piece leading to a hose and air tank. Chris held on to her. Reaching out, her hands found the scooter. She gripped the handles for dear life. Chris kept one arm wrapped tightly around her. They were moving, the water whooshing past them.

  Something hit her thigh. Seaweed? A fish? She started to breathe heavily and became lightheaded. She was dizzy, one hand went slack, falling from the scooter. Her other hand was slipping. The scooter slowed and they bobbed slowly to the surface. Someone gripped her arms, pulling Brianna from the water and onto the boat. When Brianna hit the deck, she collapsed from exhaustion and unbelievable happiness.

  She’d made it.

  Looking in the mirror, Brianna couldn’t believe the transformation that had taken place in such a short amount of time. The person staring back at her was unrecognizable. Shoulder length blonde hair with bangs. Brown eyes thanks to colored contacts. Wal-Mart jeans and a plain t-shirt. Nondescript. She could easily blend in anywhere.

  Chris escorted her from the boat to a black Honda Civic. She climbed inside and found Matt in the driver’s seat. Her arms flew around his neck.

  He winced. “Easy, my shoulder’s killing me and I think my nose is broken.”

  She backed off and searched his face. Matt had a black eye, bandaged nose, and several scratches.

  “I’m so sorry. Are you okay?”

  “I’m fine,” he said, his eyes warm, gentle. Her breath caught—he really loved her. She leaned over, gently kissing his lips.

  “I wish I could spend the night kissing you,” Matt smiled. “But we need to get out of San Diego, ASAP.”

  Brianna wanted to spend one last night with Matt. But the DEA was searching for her body. Even though Salazar was arrested, she was sure he’d have his men searching too. Chris had explained that he put a body in the water. Once it was pulled, he’d ensure it was identified as her.

  Matt started the car and began driving north.

  “I wish you’d let me set you up with an apartment. A job. Some money. I hate the idea of sending you off with nothing.”

  “Those things aren’t important. I have my life—my freedom from Salazar. You can’t put a price on that.” Matt wasn’t satisfied. “You know it has to be like this. If you put me in the system, someone will figure it out, and they’ll find me. I have to be dead.”

  “I know,” Matt sighed. “I do have something to tell you. One thing didn’t go according to plan.” Brianna tensed. “Dominic got away. After you jumped, we ran to the side and looked over. Then, in all the commotion, he took off. The other agents didn’t know the jump was planned and several went in after you.” Matt opened his mouth to say something, but changed his mind.

  So Dominic was free. At least they had Salazar.

  Brianna must’ve fallen asleep because the next thing she knew, they were at the L.A. train station. It was still dark outside and only a few people loitered around.

  “The last train leaves in twenty minutes. You should have just enough time to purchase a ticket and board.” She nodded. “Here,” Matt handed her an envelope with money. “I know it isn’t much, but it’s something to help you get started.”

  Brianna was overwhelmed by Matt. For the first time, she truly understood real love. Tears ran down her cheeks. “Thank you,” she whispered. How was she going to leave him behind, unable to contact him?

  Matt smiled. “Glad I earned back your trust. I do love you Bri. I’m sorry for hurting you.” He wrapped his arms around her, holding on tight.

  “I wish things could be different between us. That we could have a second chance.” Brianna squeezed him back. “I won’t forget you. You’ve given me a life. One that I control. My choice.” She reached up, kissing him on the cheek. “Thank you.” His hands cradled her face. Her lips gently brushed against his. The kiss deepened. If only there was more time.

  “I have to go,” she whispered.

  Matt reached into his pocket and pulled out a small piece of paper, holding it out to her. A phone number was scribbled on it. “Please take and memorize this—just in case. It’s my direct line. If you call it, I’ll know you’re in trouble and I’ll trace the call.”

  “What about Dominic?”

  “Don’t worry about him—trust me on this one.” There was something Matt was trying to convey to her without saying it. Was Dominic in on it? Did he help her get away? But what about the fight? Was it for the bodyguards? So they’d tell Salazar?

  Brianna took the paper, sliding it into her pocket.

  “Please be safe,” Matt said.

  “I will. And Matt, I love you.”

  Smiling, he replied, “Love you, too.”

  ***

  Brianna boarded the train heading toward her new life. After four days of traveling, she got off the train in North Carolina. She found an inexpensive motel and settled in for the night. Tomorrow she would look for a job, an apartment, some clothes. Matt had given her enough money to last about a month.

  Climbing in bed, she turned on the TV. The national news talked about the recent arrest of Antonio Salazar and the uncanny timing of his death while in prison.

  What?

  The news flashed a picture of Phillip and the anchor said that Salazar died from lung cancer while in custody. The case was closed, saving the taxpayers millions in prosecuting the case.

  Brianna shook violently. The DEA hadn’t arrested Salazar—they arrested Phillip. Phi
llip was dead. Salazar was free. And the DEA had no idea.

  ***

  Medellin, Colombia. Dominic stood on the hilltop looking down onto the city, at the snake leisurely winding along the roads. People crowded on the sidewalks eager to see the procession of flowers as it coiled its way through the masses. The multifaceted snake was brilliant against the white buildings at Medellin’s annual Desfile de Los Silleteros—the Flower Carrier Parade. The snake was created by hundreds of people carrying small, flower-filled wooden boxes on their backs. The sound of cheering spectators drifted up to Dominic.

  Above the excitement, he heard the soft rustle of grass behind him and Dominic turned to see Salazar approaching.

  “Dominic, we have work to do.”

  “I’m coming, Father.” Payback’s a bitch. It was Dominic’s turn to seek revenge, and Salazar would never see it coming.

  The End

  To all of my readers: THANK YOU!! I appreciate you taking the time to read my stories and enter the worlds that I create. I love your enthusiasm, emails, and messages begging for more books (or for certain events to happen in future ones). You truly make writing a meaningful and worthwhile experience.

  Writing a book is an enormous undertaking. I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband and three beautiful children who know and understand my obsession with reading and writing. Thank you for allowing me to do something I’m passionate about, and giving me the chance to soar.

  My wonderful sister, Jessica, and my mom, Shirley, have been my own personal cheerleaders throughout the entire process. I love you both dearly.

  To everyone at Crimson Tree Publishing—thank you for believing in this book. I would especially like to thank Dyan Brown, Rebecca Gober, Marya Heiman, and Courtney Nuckels. I am proud to be a part of your team.

  I want to thank my critique partners who pushed me when I considered giving up. Karri Thompson and N.W. Harris, thank you for your support. I’d also like to acknowledge Debi Barnes and Allyssa Adkins. Your girls keep me motivated on a daily basis. Thank you for making the writing process less lonely and thank you for caring about my characters and what happens to them.