Uneven Exchange

by Derban, S. K.

  “Why are we stopping?” Rico asked.

  “Because I don’t like this one bit.” Kevin reached into his jacket pocket, withdrew two passports, and handed them to Rico. “Here, take these. There is one for you and one for Alexandra. You two are going to have to cross on foot. Jake, you come up front with me.” Kevin’s tone denied questions.

  Kevin waited for Rico to reach Alexandra’s side before pressing the master switch to unlock the rear doors. Jake slid out behind Alexandra and then helplessly watched as she and Rico headed toward customs.

  “Hey, Jake!” a familiar voice said from outside the window. Jake turned in his seat to search the crowd for the source.

  Apparently hearing it too, Alexandra started to turn.

  “Alex, don’t look back” Rico commanded. “Whoever it is obviously didn’t see you. They called only for Jake.”

  “Do you know who is it?” Alexandra asked, panicking.

  “No, I don’t, but don’t worry. Like I said, they called Jake and not you. It’s probably just a friend, so please let’s go.”

  Alexandra obeyed Rico by clinging to his arm and increasing her pace.

  Jake noticed Isaiah and a group of guys, all with surfboards, in the back of a beater pickup. Faking a smile, he waved cheerfully.

  “What are you doing?” Isaiah shouted over the noise of the traffic.

  “Just played eighteen holes at Bajamar,” Jake lied, referring to a resort golf course in Mexico.

  “What did you shoot?”

  “Eighty-nine!”

  “Ha, you broke a hundred? I don’t believe it for a second. Bring in the scorecard tomorrow. I need to see this for myself.”

  Jake pretended to enjoy the friendly ribbing as he climbed into the car and secured the door. But without voicing his thoughts to Kevin, Jake was confident of one thing. He would not be seeing Isaiah at work the following day.

  ***

  Alexandra

  At the customs office, a line of at least one hundred deep stood waiting to cross, and reluctantly, Alexandra and Rico took their place at the end.

  “Well, at least we’re inside,” Rico offered.

  Alexandra smiled wearily. “Can’t give up now,” she added. “God will get us through.”

  “I believe so too,” Rico responded.

  A man in uniform approached and directed them to a closed booth where he had them wait by the painted line while he entered the booth from a half-sized, swinging door.

  “What is your citizenship?” the officer asked Rico.

  “US,” Rico answered as he handed over his passport.

  He looked directly at Alexandra. “What is your citizenship?”

  Alexandra presented her passport as she responded, “United States,” while feeling a desire to salute the flag.

  The officer reviewed both passports and stamped each while asking, “Are you bringing anything from Mexico?”

  “No,” they responded in unison, accepting their passports. Then, as customary, Alexandra surmised that his next question would be to ask their business in Mexico. She hesitated, not knowing how she should respond.

  Instead, the officer simply stated, “Thank you, you may pass.”

  Alexandra felt Rico squeeze her hand as she suppressed the urge to run outside and kiss the ground. But after only a few steps, she froze as the border patrol officer called her back.

  “Miss Callet,” he repeated.

  Wondering what had gone wrong, she hesitantly turned to answer. “Yes?” she squeaked.

  “Welcome home,” he said.

  A look of bewilderment briefly masked Alexandra’s face, followed by a broad smile of understanding. Once again, she was the recipient of the long-reaching arm of the Administration.

  The officer returned her smile with one so full that his face beamed with joy. Alexandra looked upon his radiance as a confirmation of a brighter future.

  CHAPTER

  THIRTY-ONE

  HOME

  San Diego, California

  Alexandra

  With knees bent and elbows resting, the happy but weary twosome sat on the painted red curb and kept watch for Kevin and Jake. They waited almost an hour for their ride to finally appear.

  “Hello! We finally made it. Hop in,” Kevin shouted as he pulled over to the side. Rico and Alexandra quickly got into the backseat.

  “It’s nice to see you, SAC. For a moment there, I thought you forgot about us,” Rico teased.

  “Not a chance,” Kevin responded. “You can’t get rid of me that easy. Besides, I hate to say it, but we need you both in debriefing. Alexandra, honey, how’s your head?”

  “It’s okay,” she answered quietly, not able to take her eyes off Jake.

  “We better get it checked,” Rico said. “The wound was cleaned, and the bleeding has stopped, but she has one powerful headache.”

  “You’re right,” Kevin agreed. “I don’t want to take any chances. After we get to the Administration, I’ll make a few calls to get you checked out.”

  “Do you want to drop us off at the hospital?” Jake asked.

  “No, but thanks anyway. You’ll get stuck waiting there too long. Besides,” Kevin said, looking into the rearview mirror to catch Alexandra’s expression. “Two very anxious guys are waiting just to hear your voice, Agent Callet.”

  “Where are they?” she asked excitedly.

  “Still in Cancun,” Kevin answered, “and they are still in their condo. When I told Armando and Conner not to release Daniela until you were safe, they informed me that my word would not be good enough. Can you imagine that?” Kevin teased. “My own agents don’t trust me! They want to hear from you personally.”

  “Has Daniela really been out on a boat all this time?” Alexandra asked.

  “I’m afraid so.”

  Alexandra looked at Rico. “Was she drugged this entire time?”

  “No, of course she wasn’t. That’s why Daniela is out on the boat. It’s out too far for her to escape by swimming to shore.”

  “Well, if Armando and Conner are at Mando’s place, then who is guarding Daniela?”

  “Another one of our agents. He is ex-military.” Kevin laughed. “With her temper, we needed a bruiser.”

  “What will happen when I call?” Alexandra asked.

  “The guys will radio the boat to come in.”

  “That’s it?”

  “That’s it.”

  “But what will she think? I mean, won’t Daniela wonder why she was held captive for so long?”

  “I’m sure she will,” Kevin explained. “In fact, if the reports are accurate, she’s already a little more than fired up. But once Daniela hears about Santiago’s arrest, I’m sure she’ll figure most of it out.”

  Alexandra leaned toward Rico and whispered, “Unless you tell her first.”

  After arriving at Administration headquarters, Kevin first coordinated with Alexandra to make the signal call to Cancun, then left to arrange for her medical treatment.

  “I’m going to find Natalie,” Rico told Alexandra. “I haven’t seen her for a long time, and I’m positive she’s dying to see you.”

  When Rico left, for the first time Jake was alone with Alexandra. “Let’s go sit over there,” he said while moving her toward a pair of thickly cushioned chairs. “You might as well be comfortable while we wait.”

  “Thank you,” she responded gratefully before flopping into the soft foam.

  Jake knelt in front and covered her hands with his. “I am so proud of you I could burst,” he said. “Plus, there is something I’ve got to say—”

  Natalie burst into the room. “Alexandra!”

  Alexandra smiled warmly and then stood to embrace her friend. “It is so good to see you,” she said.

  “It’s good to see you,” Natalie exclaimed. “Wow! You did such a great job, Alex. Welcome home!”

  “It’s nice to be home,” Alexandra said. She turned her attention toward Jake. “Have you two met?”

 
“No, I haven’t had the pleasure.” Natalie extended her right hand. “Agent Burke,” she said. “Natalie. You must be Jake?”

  Jake’s palm met Natalie’s. “I am.” He smiled warmly. “It’s so nice to meet you, Natalie. Kevin calls you Sparky, right?”

  “That he does,” she said, laughing vigorously.

  “Well, he also sings your praises. Thank you for taking so much time with Alexandra.”

  Natalie winked at her trainee. “She’s a good student and of course a good friend. The pleasure was mine.”

  “Doc’s here,” Rico announced through the open door. He walked toward the trio and said, “Kevin sent me for Alexandra.”

  “I’m all yours,” she said. “Hopefully, the doctor can do something for this headache. It’s still pounding.”

  Natalie placed a tender hand on Alexandra’s shoulder. “I’m sure he’ll be able to help.”

  “Hey, Nat,” Rico said. “Can you take Alexandra to see the doc? I need to head out.”

  “Head out?” Alexandra asked. “You just got here.”

  Rico attempted to conceal a smile. “I know, but I have a plane to catch.”

  “A plane?” Alexandra narrowed her eyes. “Would that be to Cancun?”

  “Give that lady a gold star.”

  “Rico, I know you’re making the right decision,” Alexandra said.

  He shrugged. “I hope so. Only time will tell.”

  “What time does your plane leave? Aren’t you exhausted?”

  “Yes, I am. That’s why I want to head out now. My plane leaves in a little over four hours, so that gives me a couple of hours to shower and wind down.”

  “But when will you sleep?” Alexandra asked.

  Rico’s grin was mischievous. “I’ll sleep on the plane, of course. After our last adventure, I splurged for first class.”

  “Good for you.” Alexandra then grew serious. “Will I ever see you again?”

  “Of course you’ll see me again.”

  “Don’t worry, Alex,” Natalie said as tears built in Alexandra’s eyes. “He just got back, so Rico will be sticking around for some time.”

  “How can I ever thank you?”

  Rico placed his hands tenderly upon Alexandra’s shoulders. “You’ve already thanked me more than enough, and like I told you before, I’m the one who’s grateful. Thank you, Alexandra. Thank you.”

  Alexandra took turns looking from Rico to Natalie. “Once I’m more myself, do you think everyone would like to come over for a barbecue? It would really be my honor.”

  Rico rubbed his stomach. “I’m there! Just say when.”

  “That would be wonderful,” Natalie said. “But please make sure and give yourself time to heal properly.”

  Alexandra nodded. “I promise I will.”

  “Alex is a great cook,” Jake added. “You’re all in for a real treat.”

  “You’re invited too,” Alexandra said while looking at him.

  “I wouldn’t miss it,” he said.

  “You better get,” Rico reminded them. “Kevin and the doctor are waiting.”

  “You’re right,” Natalie said as she led Alexandra toward the door. “Jake, come on. It’s okay. You can come with us.”

  “Natalie, I’ll check in with you tomorrow,” Rico said.

  “Okay, be safe.”

  “Jake.” The two men shook hands. “Take care of our girl.”

  “I will, and thank you. I’m sure we’ll see each other again.”

  “Definitely,” Rico assured him.

  Alexandra leaned in to kiss Rico on each cheek.

  “Good-bye, Alex,” he said.

  “Good-bye,” she responded, “and good luck.”

  CHAPTER

  THIRTY-TWO

  AT LONG LAST

  Kevin’s palms rested on Jake’s vehicle as he leaned through the lowered window. “Thank you for driving Alexandra home,” he spoke to Jake across Alexandra from the passenger’s side.

  “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Jake told him.

  Kevin reacted with a broad smile. “Somehow I knew that. If I drove her home, you would have just followed us.”

  Alexandra laughed. “You both do realize I’m sitting right here, don’t you?”

  “Yes, my dear. How is your head?” Kevin asked.

  “It’s still pounding. I can’t wait to soak in a warm bath.” Alexandra held up the plastic prescription bottle, then said, “And to take one of these.”

  “Well, don’t take one before the bath,” Kevin spoke firmly. “I don’t want you falling asleep in the tub.”

  Alexandra rolled her eyes. “Don’t worry, I won’t.”

  “I’ll take good care of her, Kevin. Besides, I’m planning to camp out on her sofa until she’s feeling better.”

  “Oh no you’re not. I’m not going to pull you away from your work. Besides, somebody has to run our business.”

  “I know we do, and that’s why we have great help. Now, if you want,” Jake added slyly, “I can always call your mom and dad to come and take care of you.”

  “Not on your life, Daniel Jake Taylor. Don’t you even think about it. My mom would want to redecorate, and my father would try and build another addition.”

  “Then quit your whining and accept the fact that I have no intention of leaving you alone.”

  Alexandra pretended to zip her mouth closed.

  “Now I’m definitely not going to worry,” Kevin stated. “Alexandra, my dear, I think you are in very capable hands.”

  “Too capable,” she moaned playfully under her breath.

  “Are you ready to go home?” Jake asked while turning the key in the ignition.

  “I’m more than ready.” Alexandra reached out her hand to Kevin.

  “Call me tomorrow, okay?” he asked.

  “I will.”

  “I don’t want to wake you, so I’m not going to call you.”

  Alexandra nodded. “I understand.”

  Kevin released her hand with a loving squeeze. “Enjoy your bath, and get a good night’s sleep. Good-bye, Jake, and thanks again.”

  “Thank you, Kevin, for everything. I’ll stay in touch.”

  As the distance between their vehicle and the Administration increased, Alexandra could feel the tension in her shoulders decrease. Her head felt like exploding, but the fact she was almost home had a calming influence. Alexandra’s spirits lifted even higher when Jake pulled into her driveway. He quickly turned off the engine, rushed to open the passenger-side door, and then walked Alexandra to her front steps.

  After opening the door and deactivating her alarm, Alexandra drew a deep breath. “Home at last,” she sighed. She looked around the living room while saying, “I’m not sure what to do first.”

  “I bet you’re hungry,” Jake suggested.

  Alexandra laughed softly. “I think I am, but you know, I’m not even sure. Unfortunately nothing is thawed, and there isn’t any fresh food. I cleaned out the refrigerator before I left.”

  “Not to worry,” Jake said while directing Alexandra toward the sofa. “Sit down and relax for a moment while we work out a plan.”

  Alexandra gave him an amused look. “What kind of plan?”

  “The kind of plan that will help you to heal.” Jake then pushed Alexandra gently into a sitting position and sat directly across from her on an overly stuffed armchair. “While you are in that hot bath you’re longing to take, how about if I get us dinner from the French bistro?”

  “Mushroom crepes?” she smiled. “Oh, Jake, that would be wonderful!”

  “Perfect. Then, after your stomach is full, you can finally take your medicine and head off to bed.”

  “Then what will you do, Doctor Taylor?”

  Jake stretched back into the down-filled chair. “Enjoy your comfortable home, listen to your sound system, and watch television from this luxurious chair. I’ve got to tell you, Alex. Your house is far superior to my bachelor pad!”

  “How can you say that?”
Alexandra pretended offense. “I decorated your so-called bachelor pad.”

  “I know, and it’s wonderful. But your home is still better.”

  “I think you’re looking for an excuse to keep an eye on me.”

  “I don’t think that, I know it.”

  “You do realize you’re welcome for as long as you like, don’t you?” Alexandra asked, moving toward the hallway. “Make yourself at home. I’m going to hit that bath.”

  Jake instantly jumped to his feet. “Before you do, can I talk to you for a second?”

  “Oh, Jake, is it all right if we talk later? I am having such a hard time focusing right now.”

  “Don’t worry, you don’t have to focus,” he quickly announced while rushing to her side. “It’s just that…” Jake hesitated. “Before we do anything else, there’s something I have to tell you.”

  “Is everything okay?” Alexandra asked, concerned.

  “Yes.” Jake paused. “Well, not exactly.” He paused again. “I—”

  Alexandra reached for his hand. “What is it, Jake? You can tell me.”

  Jake shifted his weight. “I cannot let another minute go by.”

  “Jake, what is it? Now you’re scaring me.”

  “I’m scared, Alexandra. I scared of losing you again.”

  “But I—”

  “No, don’t say anything. Just listen. Alexandra, I’m crazy about you.”

  Her chin dropped.

  “Don’t you understand? I’m in love with you.”

  Her eyes bulged.

  “In fact, I think I’ve been in love with you since the moment we met.”

  Alexandra placed both hands firmly on her hips. “Jake Taylor, I can’t believe you!”

  “What do you mean?” Jake looked shocked.

  She motioned aggressively with her hands. “Look at my face. Look at this outfit.” She still wore the now-wrinkled frog logo shorts and shirt. “Let’s not even discuss my hair!”

  “It is a little darker than usual,” Jake offered.

  “Ha! It’s a little darker? It’s also caked with blood, and to top it off, I have hat hair! For years now, I have practically thrown myself at you,” she announced defiantly. “Without fail, every time I got dressed for work, I found myself dressing specifically for you.”