“My brother!” Vincent stared at George as disbelief warring with hope raced across his features. “It isn’t possible.” He looked from Catherine to the stranger and back again, hoping to see some kind of answer written on their faces and found only a smile on Catherine’s and expectation on his.

“Is this true?” He looked to Catherine again, his rich tawny mane a halo around his head and shoulders even as he shook his head in denial.

“I believe so, Vincent. Why else would I bring him here?”

Vincent could not answer that. He knew Catherine, knew she would never jeopodise his world on a whim. But his brother? Vincent shook his head and George unwilling to let him deny the fact told him, “I have proof.”

Wide-eyed Vincent stared at the man before him, and saw not a stranger now, but a similar image of himself. Someone with the same physique, hair, eyes, stance everything standing before him. It was easy to see why Catherine had believed…but proof should he insist on proof? Yes he should, though the fellow had met him face to face, and though he did not show any fear from that, he should ask for proof. If only to satisfy Father later.
Father! What would Father think?
He found himself nodding vigorously, yes he wanted proof, but how would it be given. Nothing about the man resembled the beast, nothing at all. His eyes swiftly devoured all aspects of the stranger standing before him. And noted only one thing that grieved him, the fellow wore only one glove, but there could be any reason for that.

“You’ve seen our birth certificates and I will tell you all that you need to know, but first there is something just as important. Every picture tells a story so to speak.” George told him as he lifted his gloved hand and prepared to unlace the leather covering it.

With interest Vincent watched, noticing how well the lacings on the glove were tied done no doubt so that the glove could not easily be removed. This he understood only too well.

“People assume my hand was burnt as a child, hence the covering…it’s a story they accept…nevertheless one that has caused me much distress in its time.” Reaching the last of the ties, George began to slide the glove down his wrist revealing a matt of thick fur in a rich tawny shade before giving way to long slender fingers equally as furry with blunt tipped claws. Vincent gasped checking the hand extended with one of his own. They matched, apart from his claws being sharper.

“I know what you are thinking.” George went on watching Vincent’s dazed expression, “It could be cosmetic surgery, and yes it could, but on what count? Why would anyone wish to have this done to themselves as well as this…?” Pulling his shirt from out of his pants, George turned so that his back faced Vincent and promptly revealed the fur covering it. “Hiding a hand is one thing, this quite another. Having to wear thick clothing in summer to disguise this thatch beneath my shirt is not easy.”

“How, when, where?” Vincent muttered in quick succession.

George smiled, “One step at a time. How did we get like this?” Vincent nodded eagerly.

Beckoning with his head toward the sliding door George asked, “Can I come in?”

Vincent took only seconds to decide, “Of course.” His mind in a whirl, yet with the comforting throb of the bond between he and Catherine, he knew this to be right. Catherine would not allow a stranger to present themselves as kin if she had had any doubts.
Neither would she have done so without proof. Yet his mind and heart was in turmoil as he allowed George to enter the tunnels, knowing that without a doubt from the stranger’s very first step inside his world nothing would ever be quite the same again.

Circling the park, Bliss kept the small group of people in sight and as soon as Peter’s car pulled away she cautiously made her way back to the spot, reaching Michelle before the child spotted her.

“Hello, its Michelle isn’t it?” Bliss asked with a smile.

The child turned, “Who are you…oh you’re the lady that was with Uncle Peter.” Michelle winked, “Don’t worry I won’t tell anyone.”

“What? Why? I don’t mind.”

A wry grin spread across Michelle’s face, “Why did you run off then?”

“I didn’t. I just had some business to attend to, but I’ve seen to it now. Tell me is Catherine coming to fetch you?”

“No, Peter is coming back I think.” Michelle had doubts now, “I dunno, maybe Catherine will come. Why do you want to go below too?”

“Yes.” Bliss had no idea what below meant but if Catherine lived there…then it dawned on her…was below linked to the tunnels beneath the city? She decided to ask the child, “Do you like living in the tunnels?”

“Not as much as living above. Its okay down there, kinda dark and cold. William makes the most delicious cookies though.” Michelle laughed and her stomach rumbled reminding her of just how hungry she was.

“Why have you got to wait for someone to fetch you?”

Michelle laughed, “I can’t remember the way down. I didn’t come this way. I went through Catherine’s apartment building, but my grandparents are too old to bend low like that or to climb that ladder. I know there is a way in through the park somewhere, do you know where it is?”

Bliss shook her head, “Its been so long since I went there, I can’t remember either.” She lied amazed that she had. It was true lying was just like spinning a web, once started hard to stop and far too easy to say despite the fact that her conscience pricked her mercilessly.

“Then maybe Catherine will show the both of us. I hope someone hurries up though ‘cos I’m freezing.”

“I’m surprised that Peter left you and these old people out in the cold. If he knows the way in why didn’t he just take you?”

“I don’t know. He probably has to ask Father for permission, and will have to send him a message first. Hang on!”

Bliss swang round as Michelle started forward with a joyful cry, “Kipper!” She shouted watching as a young boy ran toward them coming to a standstill at their side and looked anxiously from Michelle to her grandparents and then to Bliss before saying, “Father is waiting at the tunnel entrance. Don’t know where Vincent and Catherine are, he says you must come at once, but you must come alone.”

“I won’t!” Defiantly Michelle shook her head, “This is my Nanna and Grandpa and I want them to come with me.”

“Michelle you know the rules.” Kipper hissed.

“Stupid rules!” Michelle cried, “If they can’t come then neither will I!”

“Catherine will be upset, she has looked everywhere for you.”

“Then tell her to come get me.”

The sound of a car approaching adverted everyone’s attention, and Bliss was unsure of what to do as she noticed that it was Peter returning. He switched off the engine and alighted from the vehicle walking across the grass in a hurry, fearful of what was happening amongst the group ahead of him.

“Kipper?”

“Peter. Thank goodness you’re here. Michelle won’t come with me.”

Sternly Peter looked at the young girl and then equally so at Bliss, before striding away to where the elderly couple looked on fearfully anticipating their fate. “Look,” Peter told them as he approached, “ I’ve been in touch with the fellow who looks after the place where Michelle is staying, and he is prepared to see and talk with you after he has called a meeting with the council where he lives. For now I have to take Michelle with me, is there someplace I can contact you?”

“Michelle can stay with us! You’re not taking her away again. What gives you that right?” The pair launched their attack on Peter, who stood his ground in expectation of this.

“It’s the law, Mr & Mrs Fletcher, you know how it is?”

“Then the law is corrupt!” Flared Michelle’s grandfather, “I did nothing wrong.”

Peter issued the old man a pitying glance, he wished that were so, and true he didn’t know all of the details, but if there was any chance that Michelle was at risk with her own kin, then he would do everything in his power to protect her.

“Two days. That’s all I’m asking, maybe less.”

”And what then? What if this council votes against me too?”

“I can’t answer that. You will have to take it up with the authorities.”

“We can’t afford a lawyer and you know that!” Michelle’s grandmother sobbed. “And why should we have to? All my husband ever did was show friendship to some kids. He didn’t do any of those things those kids said he did. He wouldn’t. I know him!” Tears ran down her cheeks and Bliss having edged closer and closer to overhear now stepped forward and with a glare at Peter that seemed to say ‘how could you?’ put her arms around the old woman’s trembling frame.

“It’s the only way.” Peter told the old lady, and then to Bliss he added, “And you’d do well to keep out of something that doesn’t concern you.”

“Oh but I think you’ll find it does. As I see it, this child is under the care of Vincent and Catherine, and these people are Michelle’s grandparents, and that makes me, as Vincent’s mother, the child’s grandmother too.” A sweet smile of triumph graced Bliss’s lips.

“Look whatever you say, think or do, I know only this, things have to be done properly. The authorities rule that Michelle is fostered out for her own safety, and until such a time as they rule otherwise that’s the way its going to be. Now Michelle…” He called back to the child, “Get in my car. And Kipper? Tell Father not to wait for us, I’ll bring the child back via another way.” Kipper caught Michelle’s arm as she made to run back to her grandparents, and Peter seeing he would have to act quickly to help the boy hurried away from the group toward his car.

“You can’t do this Peter!” Bliss yelled running after him, “I’m Vincent’s mother…you’ve a right to tell me where he is!”

Kipper stared at the strange woman with the bright golden hair and the intense blue eyes, eyes that were flashing anger right now, and he couldn’t believe his ears. Vincent’s mother! Was it so?

“Thanks Kipper, I’ve got her.” Peter opened the passenger side door and tried to bundle Michelle inside, but she was too quick for him, running past Bliss and back to her grandparents and hiding behind them as if together they were a foreboding match against Peter.

“Alright young lady, you stay with your grandparents, but the authorities will have to be informed.” He strode back to the three speaking as he went, “Just tell me where I can find you?”

“Never!” Spat Michelle’s grandmother.

Furious Peter turned to walk back to his car, “As you wish” he called over his shoulder, then seeing Bliss and Kipper watching open mouthed he told them, “Kipper, to Father now!”

“Yes, Peter.” Kipper began to run, then slowed to hear what Peter was saying to the strange blonde woman with the bright blue eyes.

“And you…if you are who you say you are…I’ll be in touch.”

“Oh I’m Vincent’s mother all right.” Bliss told him, “No doubt about that. Besides you can’t get in touch with me ‘cos you don’t know where I live.” After how he had treated the old people Bliss’s temper toward this doctor was rising at an amazing rate, if he didn’t soon get out of there, he’d regret it. Her nails dug into her palms, she was so furious.

“We’ll see.” Peter told her getting into his car and glaring at Kipper who was walking backwards slowly. Peter was furious. Not with the people he was facing but with the situation. So much had happened here, and so many people were involved, not least of all the woman that made herself out to be Vincent’s mother. That together with the grandparents of the child that had been Vincent’s adopted daughter. And Michelle herself, what was he to do? Physically carry her off screaming and kicking? Wouldn’t that constitute abuse also? And Kipper, damn the boy to witness all of that, he knew how wrong it was to eavesdrop. Would he tell Vincent?

Well one thing was for certain, he, Peter, would have to tell Catherine, because right now it looked like only a lawyer’s mind could unravel this problem. That was the whole problem, because for a certainty he didn’t think he could. If it was down to him, he’d probably believe them all. That was the trouble with human’s they could be so downright deceitful and people would believe them. Or they could tell the truth and no one would. They were their own worse enemy. Well Catherine could sort it, he thought, at least she’d know how and while she was at it she could find out how guilty or innocent Michelle’s grandfather really was of the claims made against him.

“Where’s Michelle?” Father waiting inside the drainage culvert asked Kipper the moment the lad entered alone.

“She wouldn’t come, then Peter arrived and took her in his car.” Kipper stated flatly, and it was easy to see that he was preoccupied with something else.

“What is it, Kipper? What’s wrong? And why didn’t Peter bring her straight to me?”

“What? Oh, er…he’s taking her another way. Her grandparents were with her.”

“Oh I see. Well in that case we best go back below. I’ve received a message from Vincent that he and Catherine are on their way back to the hub via the other park entrance and that they have a stranger with them.”

Kipper knew it couldn’t be, but he had to ask anyway, “Is it a woman with blonde hair?”

“A woman? I’ve no idea, why do you ask?”

“Cos there was a woman up in the park with Peter who says she is Vincent’s mother.”

“Vin…Vin…cent’s mother? Did you say mother?” Father stuttered.

“Sure. And she did look a bit like him, at least her eyes and hair were the same.”

“Was she with Michelle?” Father’s mind was doing overtime. How could someone strange enter the park and admit to being Vincent’s mother, when they did not know he existed? “Michelle must have told her.” He concluded before Kipper could reply. “All the same, I best send a message to Vincent and ask if the visitor is male or female.”

Kipper waited as Father beat out the message and knew the reply before Father related it. “ They have a man with them. This is most strange. Kipper can you take me back to the place where you left this woman maybe she is still there.”

“There will be no need for that.” A voice came from just outside of the drain.

“Its her!” Kipper cried rushing to stand behind Father. It was one thing confronting this woman in the daylight, quite another in the semi darkness of a storm drain. She could be a mental case. Father felt a bit like hiding behind Kipper for the same reason as slowly the figure of the woman moved into their circle of vision until she stood within six feet away.

“Hello?” She greeted them, “I know this must sound strange, but what the boy says is true.”

“You were listening!”

“To every word. You didn’t think I wouldn’t follow did you?” Bliss turned to Kipper, “I’ve waited thirty-five years to meet my son again, and nothing is going to stop me now that I’ve almost found him. You do both know where he is don’t you? And if you don’t tell me, I will search for as long as I have to for a way into these tunnels. You can’t stop me from getting in.”

“I think you’ll find that we can. We’ve tackled worse.” Father snapped “And you dear lady will be no trouble at all. Now get out of here!” He swung his cane menacingly at Bliss, causing her to take a sudden step back to clear it as it breezed by, and even the tears that gathered in her eyes, did not stop Father’s relentless attack. “Move! Do you understand…get out of here…I never want to set eyes on you again. How dare you come down here with your slander, your vicious lies. My son does not have a mother, or if he had he certainly doesn’t need one now. If you’re his mother why have you taken so long to find him, hmm? Why did you leave him to freeze to death in the snow? What kind of mother would do that to any child…but especially to one so beautiful as he? Get lost, don’t return…whether you’re his mother or not he doesn’t need you, its too late for that!”

Kipper couldn’t believe his eyes! He had never seen Father so angry and the woman was clearly troubled by that cane more than anything, although Father’s verbal attack seemed to stun her also.

“I have proof, I am his mother. I had no choice but to leave him in the snow, there were reasons. I can explain.”

“Get out of here! Go on get…get…” Kipper had never seen Father move so fast, and he really thought he was going to strike the woman and kill her at any moment with a well aimed whack of his cane. Bliss cowered in the entrance a moment and then turned and ran. Kipper really felt sorry for her.

“There was no need for that, Father.” He trembled as he spoke. What the old man had done was wicked, unjust and downright unfathomable. Father had been like a man possessed, or someone in a jealous rage perhaps?

“There was every need. People like that are dangerous for Vincent, for the community, and Michelle needs a severe ticking off for telling a complete stranger about Vincent.”

“But supposing…”

“Supposing nothing!” Father snapped. “And you’ll say nothing to no body. Do you hear me?” Kipper nodded, fearful now for himself when Father waved his cane before his eyes. But never had he seen Father behave like that before, and he wished he could tell someone. Maybe the old man was going senile? Too many years living below ground, never seeing the sunshine…Kipper had heard that can do strange things to a man… make him go mad. Well for a certainty it had done that to Father and Kipper had never felt so distressed in all his life.

After leaving the park, Peter wasted no time in going along to the archives of the hospital medical files, to dig for the information he sort. Most of the stuff had been transferred to microsoft machines but he didn’t think that this would be. Too old, too long ago. He prepared to be searching for several hours. Rolling up his sleeves, cup of coffee at hand he began searching through the files of the appropriate year.

Undefeated, Bliss walked away from the storm drain with fury and fear rolled into one following her out. How dare he? How dare she run out like that. How dare she let a miserable old man with a vengeance scare her away from what was rightfully hers? Well at least now she knew the way in, and she would return, and nothing would stop her from meeting her son again. Thus determined, Bliss walked toward home, knowing she’d return later that evening and then nothing would stop her entering the tunnels. However, unfortunately, something did.

Hours later found Bliss making her way steathily across the moonlit grass of the park, fearing nothing as she anticipated her quest. Thirty five years rolled behind her, and now tonight, at any moment she would finally see her son again.

George had not been at the house, nor had he left a message but she had left one for him asking him to meet her at this storm drain the following morning. Hopefully by then she would have been below, found her son and would return above just long enough to bring his twin down. Oh what a reunion she anticipated as she approached the storm drain with torch in hand. The old man had said she could be stopped, but he was wrong, nothing would stop her now.
She laughed, the sound filling the air, and echoing all around her. Someone called back and Bliss ducked quickly inside the drain hoping it would be empty. It was. Now where was the way in?
Assuming it was just a matter of opening the metal barred gate and then pushing open the large metal door behind Bliss pushed and pulled to no avail. It wouldn’t budge. She wanted to bang on it, holler and scream but the sound of footsteps outside cautioned her. She was in a very vulnerable position. Behind her she was trapped, in front of her was someone she didn’t know, and as they walked steadily about, she was sure that they didn’t know she was inside. Still it would take only moments before they found out.
Fear rose up like bile and almost choked Bliss. She extinguished the torch and the complete blackness settled over her like a suffocating blanket. It felt like years were passing instead of mere minutes.

“Hello? You in there?” A voice asked. It sounded slurred. Bliss froze, said nothing, did not move, held her breath, prayed. Prayed like she had never prayed before.
Suddenly it all became too much for her. Out there were people, and space, so much space that she couldn’t tell if she were being watched, hunted or not. Here in the storm drain, true she was trapped but she was also safe. Somewhere on the other side of this door was her son and his community below, even that wild old man was preferable to whatever awaited her outside.
Bliss stayed still until she was sure the person had moved away satisfied that the storm drain was empty, either that or scared to death someone inside might ‘get them’. Then she moved into the darkest corner she could detect and squatted, ready to jump up and run if the need arose. Moonlight shrouded the entrance, she would see anyone that came in and she’d be ready to run if the need be. But if not, she’d stay all night if she had to. For she had the comforting thought that even if she hadn’t reached her Frankie by then, at least George would be arriving to meet her come morning.
In time Bliss slept, wounding herself into a tight ball, breathing shallow, the anxious prayer still in her heart.

Due to the varied ways they had entered, everyone arrived back at the main hub at once or within minutes of one another at least. First Catherine and Vincent with their visitor and then amazingly Michelle came in escorted by a helper, and finally Father and Kipper. All stared for several moments at one another with Michelle behaving like a frightened rabbit. It was almost as if the moment the helper let go of her arm she would run back the way they had come. Father stared at the visitor thinking he had finally gone quite mad. There was such a striking resemblance to his son there, that afterward when he learned of Vincent’s suspicions, he could not for the life of him understand why Vincent had had any. Catherine and Vincent both stared at Michelle, overjoyed to see her, dismayed that she appeared so wary of them and wondered where the helper had found her, and what had happened to her to make her appear so frightened. And Kipper, for all his sensibility looked like he was a troubled spirit, and in many respects much like the frightened rabbit of Michelle. It looked like the first chance he got he would be off too.

“What on earth is going on here?” Father was the first to speak looking from one person to the next. His question seemed to make everyone move and they all began talking at once.

“Michelle!” Catherine hurried toward the young girl enfolding her in her arms, “Are you well?” She touched her, ran her hands up and down over the girl’s arms, then touching her face looked into her eyes willing the child to tell her where she had been, if she was alright, if she was cold, hungry, miserable, and why she appeared to be scared half to death.
For a moment Michelle said nothing and then started to cry heartily, causing Catherine to look back at Vincent appealing for help. He strode forward bear hugged the young girl and coaxed her into telling him what was wrong.

“She came into my store. I remembered her from the time you came in Catherine with the two young girls, and by the message that she was missing I thought I had best bring her down here quick smart. She tried to make me bring her grandparents down, but I thought I ought to check that one out first.” The helper told Vincent and Catherine.

All this was taking place as Father stared at the visitor unable to say a word. It was incredible. If Vincent had the face of a man this was the face he would have. Everything about the fellow reminded him of Vincent. Finally he was compelled to ask, “And who might you be?”

Looking to Vincent and Catherine for guidance and finding them otherwise engaged with the child, George was lost for words. This must be the old man that his brother Joe Maxwell and Catherine referred to as Father. George had already established that this man was some kind of prominent figure to the tunnel community, and he wasn’t certain if he should introduce himself by name or by position or both. While he deliberated, Vincent came to his rescue, placing one arm around the fellow’s shoulders Vincent introduced the two. “Father, this is George Jameson. George this is my father, Jacob Wells.” The introduction was well and fine but it did nothing to explain why George was there. And while Vincent had thought of little else on the journey home, he was still incapable of recognising George as his brother. So he was surprised when Father asked sceptically, “Are you two related?”

George and Vincent looked from one to the other before looking back at Father, “That’s a strange question Father, why do you ask?” Vincent questioned quite mystified.

“Just answer my question first. So are you?” How could he tell him that he thought they resembled one another? How could he explain that he could ‘see’ that they were related? Were they even aware of the fact? It seemed ludicrous that Vincent could be related to anyone. It was something he had never dreamed of happening, well not quite in this way. Oh he had often wondered if Vincent had a living family, but he had always assumed they would hear about it before the relative visited. Never the other way around.

“I believe we are.” George spoke for the first time taking Father aback with his rich soft lilt which was so like Vincent’s, even though it had no gravelling undertones..

“How so?” A shuffle from one side drew his attention away momentarily and Father noticed that Kipper, Michelle, the helper and Catherine were all standing like an audience at a side show, and it looked very much as if each were holding their breath. Though few knew what the other knew, each had realised that the visitor was a lot like Vincent in too many ways for it to be a coincidence. And Kipper was still remembering the woman in the park. Was she related to this man? Had she been telling the truth? If so Father had just turned away Vincent’s own mother. What would Vincent do about that when he found out?

In the time Father’s attention was diverted George sent Vincent a look for help. What should he do now? Tell the old man what he wanted to know? His eyes seemed to question, ‘do you believe me yet Vincent? Can I tell your father, or do you want to tell him?’

“Well?” Father asked when no answer was forthcoming, “How do you think you are related to my son?”

With Michelle’s hand clutched in his, Vincent stepped forward, “George believes that I am his long lost twin brother, Father. But we have yet to establish the truth of that.”

Despite the reply Father sighed. He was greatly relieved yet could not understand why. Later he decided that if these two hadn’t of been related he knew he would have been haunted by the belief that they must be linked in some way. He knew he would have got no rest until he had found that link. It may have taken the rest of his life, but Father knew that he would have done everything in his power to prove it. The relief of knowing that he didn’t have to face all of that was almost too much.

Father nodded. Stunned Vincent asked, “You don’t appear surprised.”

“I’m not. Any fool can see that the two of you are related in some way. You say you have yet to establish the fact. I think the facts speak for themselves, its as plain as the light of day, anyone else think so?”

Kipper stepped forward, “I do, Father.”

Then Michelle, “So are you related to the woman with the blonde hair too?” Father gasped, he had almost forgotten about her.

“Blonde hair?” George’s face lit up, “Where is she, what did she say to you?” The last time he had seen his mother she was in the nursing home. His mind was in overdrive, how did this child know he was related to a blonde haired woman, how had they met, was it his mother?

With the grace to blush Father stammered, “there was a woman in the park. She maintained that she was Vincent’s mother. I didn’t believe her. I saw her off.”

“YOU DID WHAT!!!” Three pairs of accusing voices raised as one, blue and green eyes flashing as Catherine, Vincent and George stared wildly at the elderly man.

“I…I…didn’t believe her. After all how did she know Vincent was down here? I though Michelle must have told her. After all they were together.”

“Was not!” Michelle shouted. “I’ve never seen her till today.” Father looked at her strangely, he had naturally assumed that as they were together they knew one another.
“Peter brought her.” Michelle added.

“Peter? Who’s Peter?” George wanted to know.

“He’s our friend and Catherine’s general practitioner,” Vincent told him, then turned thunderous eyes toward his parent as he told him accusingly, “If Peter brought her, you should have known she was telling the truth. Father, how could you send her away?”

“It wasn’t like that. I never saw Peter. I never saw the woman until she followed Kipper back to the storm drain. How was I to know she was telling the truth?”

“How long ago was this?” Catherine asked now.

“Two hours ago maybe a little more, why? She’ll be long gone.”

“Maybe not. If she followed Kipper and you sent her away, hopefully she will stay around the area waiting for another chance. Although it will be dark soon. Does she know Vincent is down here?”

Father nodded. “Yes. I believe she does. Its that which frightened me the most. I really believed that Michelle had told her everything. I’m sorry my dear, forgive me?”

“She might, but I don’t think I ever will. Father, my own mother and you let her go.”

Kipper giggled, couldn’t help himself muttering ‘and then some’. Father glared at the boy, cringing when Vincent asked, “What did Father do?”

Knowing he had revealed too much Kipper shook his head, he didn’t want to say anything more. By the warning look he saw in Father’s eyes, he knew he was already caught in the crossfire and he wanted out.

“Did you frighten her? Threaten her? Father, tell me!” Vincent roared enough to take George aback. He had never heard a man utter such a sound in all of his life.

“I…I…was only thinking of you…” Father cowered a little. Though he knew his son would never hurt him, he knew he had done him a grave injustice, and he was also lying even now. He hadn’t done it for Vincent at all. He had done it because he was jealous, jealous that someone might come that would mean more to Vincent than he did.
Someone natural, blood related, kin. A brother was one thing, a mother was quite something else. Vincent had missed not having a mother and Father didn’t want to lose him to one that might suddenly lay claim to him. But he could never tell Vincent that. Vincent would hate him if he knew.

Finding nothing with which to reply, Vincent returned his attention to George and then Catherine, “We should go back above, see if we can find her. George you will have to come, I don’t know who I am looking for.” “I’ll take Michelle home.” Catherine told them, “Keep us informed, and be careful up there Vincent.”

Vincent knew what she meant. Despite everything, despite what appeared to be so, may not be. He could quite easily be walking into a trap. George might not be who he said he was, and this might not have been his plan, but they may have just made it easier, whatever it was, to be accomplished. And worst of all this could be one of Mitch Denton’s traps, after all he knew so much about Vincent already and it was just possible that George was working for Mitch. Still he would never know if he didn’t go to find out, and at least by being aware of the possibility of such a set up Vincent went out prepared for anything. It wouldn’t be the first time that Mitch had tricked him.

“I’ll be careful. Don’t worry, Catherine. Kipper, take Father to his chamber, he looks like he needs to sit down.”

Then without another word, he left the small group as he and George made their way back up to the park.

“Well what have we here?” With flashlights blazing the still form huddled in the corner of the dusty storm drain was eaily distinguishable.

“Bin locked out have we?” A dirty hand shook Bliss awake roughly. She stared at the light. Blinded by its intensity and shielding the beam with her hand, unable to see who stood behind, as fear galloped through her small frame gaining momentum by the second.

“Who….who…are you?” she stammered.

“Just what I was going to say. Who are you?” One of the figures spoke to her. The others laughed. Bliss’s blood ran cold at the sound.

“Nobody.” She replied at length not quite sure how much she should reveal. Keeping secrets was something she had much practice at.

“What are you doing here? You aren’t dressed like you have no home to go to.”

“I’m waiting for someone.” Bliss trembled.

“Yeah, who? Ain’t many people lady that wait for anyone in here. You visiting the folk below?”

At that word Bliss relaxed. Here was someone that knew about the tunnels, maybe they even knew Vincent. If they did and they were bad people, maybe they would be frightened to know who she was to him. Her mind in overdrive Bliss thought of and rejected many ideas in a few split seconds before foolishly deciding on what she deemed to be the best way out. And ordinarily it may have been adequate, if these people had been tunnel dwellers, and though no tunnel dweller would behave so callously to a stranger Bliss was yet to learn this.

“I’m waiting for Vincent. I’m his mother.”

“That so?” The voice drawled. “Well I’ll be damned, old pussy face has a human mother after all.” The other men with him laughed, they didn’t know who he referred to, but it sounded funny.

“Who are you?” Suddenly Bliss knew she had done wrong, and it was imperative that she knew who she was speaking to.

“Me? I’m an old friend of Vincent’s. We grew up together. You could say we are brothers.”

“Oh?” somehow Bliss doubted that. There was too much anger, venom in his tone for him to claim her son as his brother. Bliss thought she detected hatred there.

“Yep sure, me and Vin go back a long way. Tell you what lady, you ain’t gonna get no joy waiting around here all night, ‘cept freeze your ass off. How about I show you another way in?”

Bliss gasped, Oh yes, oh yes, “You know another way?”

“Course I do, I know all the ways.” Bliss realised he was careful not to use any words that applied to the tunnels. Mimicking him she went along with that.

“Then thank you, yes. Beats waiting out here in the cold.”

“Sure does, here let me help you up.” Bliss held out her hand placed it in the rough weather beaten one and felt herself fairly lifted into the air. ‘Wow’ she thought, ‘you’re strong’ but she kept that to herself.

“Right ready? Got everything?” the fellow looked around, swinging his flashlight into all the corners. There was some garbage left around but the woman staked no claim to it. “Good, let’s go then shall we? Soon have you nice and warm.”

Leading Bliss by the elbow, the fellow steered her out of the storm drain and to her surprise toward a car parked a few yards away. Alarm bells sounded but she was also well aware that there wasn’t a lot she could do but trust this person. After all he obviously knew Vincent, even if he didn’t appear to favour him, and he was right she couldn’t stay where she was. Already she was frozen half to death. If he hadn’t of come along she may even have died and would never have known. A sudden thought struck her, “Oh!”

“What’s the matter, what’s wrong?” The fellow asked as Bliss slid into the back passenger seat.

“I’ve just thought. I left a note at home for my other son to meet me, perhaps I should leave one here to tell him I’ve taken another way in.”

The fellow seemed to dwell on this a few seconds before replying, “Its okay, I’ll leave the note, you just wait here. What’s your other son’s name?” He assumed it to be an adopted son, or maybe Vincent was adopted, no matter, this woman referred to herself as Vincent’s mother, so that was good enough for him. Vincent would know who he meant.

“It’s George. Pin it eye level so he’ll find it. Thank you.”

“No probs. You just settle down and get warm. Syd, get the engine running, turn the heater on, let her get warmed up while you wait for me.”

That said he walked with the flashlight guiding his way back into the storm drain, then taking a notepad and a thick felt tipped pen from his back pocket he began to write, then satisfied he made a hole in the paper, found a piece of rag and tied it to the gate where it would be easily seen by some tunnel dweller if not Vincent himself. That done, he stepped back, laughed derisively and with the flashlight took a last look at the note before leaving the storm drain with a triumphant look on his face.

He’d got it made, the cat was well and truly in the bag. He wondered what Vincent would do when he read his little kidnap note, probably go ballistic. Well what did that matter, as long as he got the freak running, running straight into his booby trap? He laughed as he thought of the note he’d left…

‘Vincent…I’ve got your mother…Mitch.’

And then reaching the car he slid into the passenger seat next to the woman and asked Syd to drive down to the docks.

Rachel was playing with some toys in Father’s chamber when the three returned and on seeing Michelle she jumped up at once and came to hug her ‘sister’, “I’ve missed you.” She told her, “Where have you been?”

“I went above.” Michelle told her, “To my grandparents, but Catherine wouldn’t let them come back with me.”

“Now that’s not true.” Catherine interrupted. “It was Peter who wouldn’t allow them, and then Father backed up that decision. Whoever comes to live below is for the council to decide, you know that Michelle, surely you remember how it was when you first arrived?”

“Yes, and its stupid. What’s wrong with my grandparents? They are nice people.”

“Well if they are, they can come. But that’s not for me to decide. You will have to wait until Peter reports back to present their case. Its not something you or I can do.”

“Where’s Vincent?” Rachel wanted to know, “Did he come back with you?”

“No, Rachel. Vincent has gone above. It will be dark soon so it will be safe for him.” Catherine decided to refrain from telling the child the purpose of his trip above. Best not to tell her any details until they knew more themselves, or she might have questions Catherine could not answer.

“Well you two, its time to eat and then bath and go to bed. Tomorrow is another day.”

Catherine prepared for an argument, surprised when there was none. The two girls seemed happy to be back together and did not challenge her request in any way. Not that she expected it from Rachel, but she had thought that there might be problems with Michelle.

Later, when the two girls were safely tucked up in bed, Catherine sat with a brew of hot tea in her hands her thoughts and heart totally absorbed on Vincent. It had been over two hours since he and George had returned above during which time there had been no word and Catherine was beginning to worry.

On their way out into the park neither had noticed Mitch’s note and after avidly searching without success the two men returned to the drainage culvert sorry at heart. Neither spoke, for what was there to say? They had said everything during the past two hours. Their mother had vanished, maybe she would return another day, hopefully she would. Even a trip to the house George shared with her had not revealed any sign of life and not delaying for Vincent’s sake had meant that George had overlooked the note that his mother had left for him.

With his acute hearing and eyesight, there was no need for Vincent to carry a flashlight, and as George did not think to bring one, the two entered the darkness of the drain culvert with eyes pinned ahead adjusting their sight to the inky darkness within.

A little concerned about showing his brother where the mechanism was for opening the door, Vincent was grateful for the darkness and reached up to the ledge over the door with ease happy that George could not see him do so. But once the door opened light spread through to the area outside illuminating their shadows and the iron clad door with its note attached.

“What’s that?” George noticed it first.

Vincent reached for the note reading its contents with a sense of unrest, fear, dismay and disgust.

“Its from an arch enemy of mine. It says that he has our mother.”

George gasped. “Would he hurt her!”

“I can’t say. Mitch grew up in the tunnels, we used to be friends… associates… I thought of him as a brother… but he was always cruel toward me and issuing snide remarks. Since he left the tunnels he has tried his best to avenge me. His father and I were good friends, I think Mitch resented that, he has no other reason to hate me.”

“Then why would he kidnap mother?”

“To flush me out. Recently Mitch has sent a series of notes bearing the intent to kill me. He knows he dare not set foot inside the tunnels, but to lure me above…” Vincent shrugged, “Holding our mother would secure his plan. I must go to him.”

“Then I lose you and gain our mother. I can tell you Frankie…sorry, Vincent…if mother knew this she would give her life for yours, but I do not have such courage. I can’t lose her Vincent, I can’t.”

“Then I must see that it doesn’t come to that. “

“No Vincent, not I but we. We will go together. We are brothers, twin brothers, where you go’est I go’est. We have been apart far too long, and she is my mother too. “

“I cannot allow this. It is me that Mitch wants. You should only accompany me some of the way, I will find our mother and bring her to you.”

“And if this Mitch should kill you?” What then? Will he kill her too? After all she would be a witness and your wife is a good lawyer. Surely he would take no such risk?”

Vincent was thoughtful. George was right, yet how could he allow his newly found brother to join him in this quest? Supposing all three of them were killed? Yet supposing George was right? What if he was killed leaving their mother to fend for herself? At least taking George with him, Mitch would not be prepared for that. He would assume Vincent would come alone. “All right, but you must stay close to me, and do everything I say. It is a dangerous place where Mitch resides. He will have people on the look out. We must be careful. And first there is something I must do.”

Vincent reached inside the tunnel and picking up a stone, tapped out a message to Pascal, letting him know what he proposed doing and why. Pascal beat out a hasty, ‘be careful Vincent’, before the two men exchanged goodbyes. That done, Vincent closed the door to the tunnels, secured it, and led George back out into the semi darkness of the park above.

“So, you are Vincent’s mother?” Mitch pulled up a chair opposite the bound woman before him. “Too bad you can’t answer me, so just nod or shake your head ok?”

Bound and gagged, wide eyed Bliss nodded. Her heart thudded in her chest as it had for the past two hours, petrified as she was to what was happening to her. This man with his promise to show her a short cut into the tunnels, had tricked her, and by the tone of malice in his voice, Bliss realised that she was to become bait to lure her son to him. What an awful moment that would be. To sit and be faced with her son for the first time in thirty five years, only to witness his death moments later. Still there was no way she could avoid seeing it. The bonds around her hands tied at the back of the chair were too tight and her gag almost suffocating. Only her feet were un-strapped, not that it mattered, she could hardly hobble out of the cabin and down its many steps with a chair strapped to her back, any more than she could safely navigate the sidewalk between the warehouses and the ocean.

As Mitch had ushered her from his car to the cabin, Bliss had been aware of her surroundings from decades ago. This was the self same dock she had alighted upon the day her voyage from Bermuda had ended. She had never been back, but the boats that were docked seemed awfully appealing right now, and Bliss wished that she were able to hide out upon one. If she did get a change to escape, that would be where she would head to lie low. There were enough boats moored for it to take a considerable time for her to be found by this man and his so called colleagues. Having her escape plan in mind gave Bliss a measure of comfort, even though she knew the impossibility of carrying the chair with her at least the idea kept her sane.

“His ‘real’ mother?” Bliss almost retched at the animosity behind the question. She knew by the sinister tone that she would have to lie yet again. She shook her head.

“Pity.” Mitch looked disappointed. And for a long while was silent gauging his next question. Finally he asked, “Do you live in the tunnels?”

Bliss wasn’t sure how to answer him, unsure of the way his mind was working. If she should say yes, he might ask her questions that she knew no answers to and he would then know her to be lying. If she said no, would he feel that she was so important to her son after all?

“I asked you a question. Answer me God damn you!” Mitch’s face contorted with unleashed fury and instinctively Bliss shook her head.

“What’s that for, no you won’t answer me, or no you don’t live in the tunnels?” Bliss just stared at him helplessly until he asked her again, “So do you live in the tunnels?”

Bliss shook her head.

Mystified Mitch stood up. If the woman was telling the truth, how long would it be before Vincent would discover the note, or anyone would discover it? If she didn’t live in the tunnels how would they know she was missing? How long would it be before they came looking for her? Would it be tonight? Tomorrow? Tomorrow night? It had been late when he had found her, it was probable that no one would discover the note till morning. Maybe not even then. More like late afternoon when someone was returning, then they would notice it pinned to the bars. Well one thing was for certain, they couldn’t wait up all night, and as much as he despised anyone that knew Vincent, Mitch felt a merit of remorse for the victim he held as bait. Besides she was quite a petite and pretty woman. Probably had been beautiful once.

“I don’t want any trouble, okay?” Mitch stood up and before Bliss drew a knife from his pocket. Her wide open eyes spoke of her fear and he told her, “I’m not gonna hurt you. We just can’t stay here. It might be hours before Vincent arrives. I’m gonna cut your ties and you’ll come with me onto one of the boats, okay?”

Bliss could hardly contain her relief and joy. She tried not to let her eyes show it as he stood watching her for signs of loyalty. “Okay, I think you’ll do as I ask.” Mitch slit the ties behind her back, and taking her roughly by the elbow, pulled her up onto her feet and steered her toward the door. Opening it, he peeped outside. All was still and quiet. His men were on duty in their required positions, but he could not see them from where he stood.

“Come with me.” He barked the order and Bliss fell into step alongside him. Together they walked the length of the jetty and toward the last boat moored there.

Then from out of nowhere Mitch heard a familiar sound that turned his blood to ice. Hot blood thundered through his veins freezing as it reached his heart, as bile rose up like venom when he recognised that the sound could be issued only from one other – Vincent!

Pushing the woman forward, Bliss stumbled over the side of the boat tumbling onto the deck below, but released from Mitch’s hold she quickly regained ground and sped off wrenching the gag from her mouth as she leapt from boat to boat until she was satisfied that she could hide where Mitch could not find her.
There she waited with a bird’s eye view as a cloaked figure stalked her captor under the cover of the shadows.

Suddenly, Vincent knew that they were not alone. And the company was not due to Mitch’s sidekicks. He and George had taken them out on the way in. Stilling to listen Vincent detected voices that told him long before Mitch did that other people had come onto the scene with a similar intent. Vincent could sense their anger, hatred and murderous intent.

Holding to the shadows, Vincent hoped that George had kept to his position, but paid his location no attention. A turn of the head, any rustle would indicate his presence and Vincent remained motionless until he was sure he knew of the whereabouts of every man entering the dock. There he waited, watching intently, his eyes pinned on Mitch Denton to see what would happen next.

He’d found them! Peter stared and stared at the appropriate records as if he couldn’t quite believe his eyes. But they were there right before him. Date, time and purpose of visit. 12th January 1956, at 21.42 hours, a baby was admitted with his mother. Peter read down the notes with avid interest, his heart beating erratically by what he saw there. The woman had the child stowed inside a blanket and some of the placenta was still attached. However, on examination of the woman not only had the rest of the placenta been discovered, but there were obvious signs that a second placenta had grown into it and had been torn away within the last few hours, yet there was no sign of another child.
And the mother insisted that she had only given birth to one child. It was therefore a mystery, but the records had been closed with the assumption that the woman had carried fraternal twins, and one had died at some stage before birth and had been expelled without the woman’s knowledge, possibly as a previa twin whereby the placenta had been delivered first. This was usually a fatal birth, and often dangerous for the mother, but with a stillborn that had died several weeks before the onset of labour it was just possible that the mother had suffered no ill effects due to that reason. However, there was one problem with that theory – the placenta that had been torn was not old and shrivelled but was in fact full of red and fresh blood, indicating that the child from whence it had come had not been stillborn.

Peter continued to read with avid interest. He, of course, knew exactly what had happened, knew the simple complexity of it all, but for those not in the know, several theories had been put forth.

1) Had there been a second child that was alive and had grown to full term then where was it? That was the first and foremost question.

2) As there was no fraternal twin to the child brought in by the mother, then it was possible that at some stage during pregnancy a child had been expelled without the mother being aware of it, yet the recently torn placenta if grown into the healthy child’s placenta would have continued to grow and nourish the birth child. It was highly unusual but not impossible, except that the birth child appeared weak and undernourished and therefore that brought back the possibility that another child had been born, and recently too. But again where was it?

3) It was also unusual that any of either placenta’s should still be within the womb, and on closer inspection it was discovered that a third placenta had been partly formed in the early stages of pregnancy, and that this too had grown into the preceding placentas. There was no sign of the embryo however, although this was to be expected.

4) A strange occurrence was noted that the placenta’s while growing into one another in actual fact formed a structure much like that of an animal. They were all linked true, but after expulsion it became clear that when laid side by side they very much resembled the afterbirth of a large mammal such as a dog or a large cat not of the domestic variety.

Peter pulled back in surprise at reading this. It was the very proof he needed, if nothing else had convinced by now him that bit did. He left the report of the birth and went on to the Haemoglobin files, and was astounded to discover that the DNA test had proven that the blood taken from the child and the placenta’s had shown a definite result of feline, possibly lion.

Then further dates were added showing that the mother had collected the child the following day, and had from time to time taken that child to clinic appointments, but there was no more information after the year 1967, which would be about the time, Peter presumed, that George had started to grow the fur. The file was thus closed as one of life’s mysteries, and the final theory was that the woman had somehow been contaminated with feline blood and this had been passed on to her offspring, who in turn had suffered. It was considered a possibility that the woman would never carry a ‘normal’ baby to term from then on after.

So it was true then. Well as true as it was possible to be. There was always that niggling doubt that Bliss had got hold of those records and had fabricated a story from them. But why? And if she did what connection had she to Vincent? There was nothing within the records to attain to anything about Vincent’s existence, and chances of Bliss making that connection would be like putting all the parts to an automobile in a huge container stirring it for a million years and have a vehicle at the end of it. No matter for how long it was mixed without human intervention those parts would just not slot together to build a car. And as far as these records were concerned there was no human intervention that could put these notes and Vincent together. Unless it was someone that actually knew the truth of the matter.

Peter leaned back on his seat and drew in a great breath, exhaling it all in a rush. So it was true then. The woman was Vincent’s mother. And he had a brother too, a twin. Well that being the case there were some that had waited thirty five years for this information, so what was he doing sitting there gawking with it in his hands? Peter rose hastily cleaned up after him and left the room, his heart and mind almost dilerious with the news he was about to impart.

“DENTON!”

The sound of the voice filled the air and Mitch firmly held in Vincent’s sight spun on his heels toward the sound. Even from his vantage point Vincent could see the rush of fear that came over Mitch as he recognised that voice.

“LARRY.” Mitch answered his greeting a little off key, nervousness fringing the tone. “What brings you here at this hour?”

The fellow Mitch referred to as Larry laughed sinisterly as he replied, “In a word, YOU!”

“Me?” While his body remained frozen to the spot Mitch’s eyes darted around nervously looking for somewhere to run. He’d been expecting this rendevouz with Larry for a long time yet now it had arrived he wasn’t ready. What a night for it to happen, just when he was about to get rid of the beast for good.

“Yes You! Long time no see, huh? Come to that perhaps ‘no see’ would benefit you as it did my brother, know what I mean?”

Mitch did. He had blinded Larry’s brother in a brawl a month ago and then the fellow had died from the head injury that had at first taken his sight.

Larry moved forward with murderous intent and Mitch noticed at that moment that he was not alone. There were five maybe six other men with Larry, all intent on circling him.

Bringing his fingers to his mouth Mitch whistled, he needed help and fast. Derisive laughter met his command, “Don’t bother Denton, you’re men have gone. I encountered no one that was still alive on my way in.“ Larry wrongly assumed that the dead men he had seen had been killed by his own men who had gone in ahead of him.

Sweat broke out on Mitch’s brow, his body shook from fear and dread. This was not good. He was well and truly cornered, and if he did live to tell the tale, chances are he would never see again. He’d heard that that had been Larry’s intent. To take his sight and see Mitch’s empire crumble because he was blind was the sort of retribution Larry could live with.

Backing until he met the water’s edge, Mitch contemplated falling into the freezing water, knowing that it had to be his last resort. Never one good at swimming, the thought of being swallowed by the ocean just did not appeal, not even right now. No there had to be some other way. He sought his mind frantically, dismissing this and that as the henchmen moved in. All he could do was fight. He had a gun but was unsure that he could reach it and pull the trigger before the one’s already aimed his way hit home. He doubted that possibility. The only thing that would help him now was an unexpected attack from the right quarter and with his men dead that was an impossibility. So Mitch stood awaiting his fate, his heart pounding heavily and closed his eyes tightly as he heard the first click of Larry’s revolver.

Suddenly from all around came a sound he hated more than anything in the world, but at that moment one he was more than grateful to hear. And in that element of surprise, Vincent felled all of Larry’s men even amid the gunshots and moments later had slain Larry too. Mitch stood frozen to the spot, his palms sticky with sweat, his heart in his mouth. Would he be next? Vincent had him cornered, but he held no gun. He could get him swift and sure if he wanted to do. Yet noticing the carnage before him Mitch’s straying hand stopped half way to his gun and retreated back to his side as he met Vincent’s fiery blue eyes face to face.

“Go!” Vincent challenged him, as they heard the wail of sirens, “Go Mitch!”

Mitch went. Slow at first then with gaining momentum as his limbs became his own again. He did not look back. The problem with Vincent he knew, could wait another day, now was not the time.

Daring not to look from her vantage point on the deck of the boat, Bliss huddled in a tight corner listening to the sounds being transported to her from the dock. There were gunshots and shouts, groans and then this terrible roar that sounded like some wild cat had been set loose on someone. For some reason Bliss did not associate it with her lost son. Though she knew by now that he resembled a lion, that he could make utterance as one had not crossed her mind. The sounds were terrifying and even when she heard the calming sound of sirens, Bliss did not move, staying exactly where she was, knowing she would stay there until daybreak if she had to do, knowing that no one would see her where she was hiding and that she was safe. The only one she trusted in this world was Georgie and in his absence Bliss relied heavily upon herself. Tomorrow she would find her son but for now she would refresh herself with the blessed relief of sleep.

Where had she gone? Though they returned an hour after the police had left and all the bodies had been stowed away in black bags, neither Vincent nor George could find any trace of their mother. In fact had it not been for the fact that Vincent had positively seen Mitch shoving a woman with blonde hair down the steps leading to the waterside, he may well have concluded that George was in fact one of Mitch’s sidekicks after all. Yet seeing that had changed his opinion. That Mitch had held a hostage had been plain to see, the thing now was, where had she gone when she had run away from Mitch? In all the commotion no one had seen which direction she had taken. Was she even still anywhere near the dock? Perhaps she had crept home, returned to the park, Vincent didn’t know what to think and neither was George able to help. Plus there was one other problem one that neither George nor Vincent yet knew about.. In the edition of the evening newspaper there was a photograph of Bliss and a small report that she had escaped from the nursing home and though there was a telephone number to call if she was seen she was not to be approached as she was thought to be dangerous. Apparently she had maintained that she was the mother of the beast that roamed the city streets mauling and slaying innocent victims and might well do the same if provoked.

Two days later Bliss’s whereabouts had still not been uncovered. It was disturbing, but in the light of other things drawing their attention those two days flew by for the tunnel folk. Peter had returned with his startling news and George had spent the last forty eight hours telling his tale of woe, of how he and his twin had become separated at birth, and of the story of their mother as much as he knew.

Michelle was still a little distracted as much of this did not appeal to her. She missed her grandparents and while what should have been the happiest of occasions for Vincent and Catherine, the latter found it impossible to be anything but, with Michelle’s misery concerning her.

Peter had explained at last about Michelle’s past, leaving Catherine to wonder why she could not have known of this sooner. She reasoned that being a lawyer she might have been able to sort it long ago, thus saving a lot of people from a lot of heartache. However, once the truth was known, Catherine wasted no time and in the absence of her husband who was only naturally spending every given opportunity to spend time with his newly found brother, she went above and sought Joe’s advice.

“Peter told me that the old man had molested some children. But I’ve spoken to him Joe, that is Michelle’s grandfather, and he tells me that this was a lie.”

“Well he would wouldn’t he?” Joe grinned. He as well as any other lawyer knew that any guilty party told lies.

“Yes I know what you’re thinking, but Joe, it just doesn’t ring true. Can you spare anyone to interview the families that were involved?”

“Why don’t you do it?” Joe grinned from ear to ear. He’d do anything to have his best investigator back working for his team again.

“Well for one thing my badge has expired. For another I have responsibilities now that I can’t just put away, and for another…” Catherine grinned sheepishly, “I have another reason why I don’t want to be hotfooting it around town right at the moment.” And she patted her tummy and waggled her eyebrows.

“Cathy! You’re not telling me that you’re pregnant?” Joe’s face lit up with delight.

“No, I’m not telling you.” Catherine giggled, “Because I haven’t told Vincent yet. So just you remember that you weren’t the first to know, okay?”

“Scouts honour.” Joe replied with a chuckle.

“So you’ll help with Michelle’s grandfather then?” Catherine asked hopefully, already regretting telling Joe about the baby. It was a secret she was reserving for Vincent alone whenever they got some private time together.

“Don’t worry Radcliffe, I’ll set someone on to it. Who should I make the account out to though?”

“To me. Whatever it costs it doesn’t matter. I have a hunch that Mr Fletcher, that’s the grandfather, was set up. Either that or it was mistaken identity. And because of that two very dear old people have been deprived of their granddaughter, and much as I love Michelle I see no reason why she should not live with them instead of me.”

“That will sadden Rachel.” Joe mused.

“Yes, but they can visit, and its not as if Rachel will always be the only child in our family.” There she was doing it again. She ought to hurry and tell Vincent before she told the whole world first. Catherine sighed and Joe, being Joe, and knowing the makings of Catherine understood at once. “You’re good at keeping secrets Radcliffe so why are you letting this one slip so well?”

“I wish I knew. Vincent should be the first to know, yet I find myself wanting to blurt it from the rooftops to anyone that will listen. Daft isn’t it?”

“Not really. Especially when you think of the extraordinary child you will be carrying. I say congratulations are in order, but don’t worry Cathy I won’t break out the champagne until you have told Vincent and his family first, okay?” At Catherine’s sigh of thanks Joe went on, “So leave with me all you have on the Fletchers and give me two days and I’ll see what I can turn up.”

“Thanks Joe, I knew I could rely on you, now all we have to do is try to find Vincent’s mother.”

“Still missing then? When you rang and told me I had a couple of guys look out for her while they were down that way, they saw no one of your description and since the article appeared in the newspaper, most people are on the look out for her anyway…” his voice trailed away at Catherine’s look of alarm.

“You didn’t know?” Walking toward his desk, Joe leafed through some newspapers until he found the one he sought, “Here, you can keep this copy I have another at home. She escaped from the nursing home Cathy, the cops are keeping an eye out for her. She told them she was the mother of the beast and they consider her dangerous.”

Catherine gasped, “Oh no!” This was terrible. There was no telling what would happen now.