THE DISAPPEARENCE
“I have just one more thing to say to you” replies Kate. “no that’s it, you’re done! You have to leave right now. This is Sami’s apartment and she doesn’t want you here.” Lucas interjects. Kate and Lucas exchange a few more words with Kate asking “this is the thanks I get?” and Lucas responds “Please don’t ask me to choose between you and Sami”
Some where in Ireland……
CLANG, CLANG “you there! Wake up and eat yer grub” demands a gruff voice from beyond a large wooden door with iron bars. Sami jerks with a start thinking to her self “oh Lucas, save me from this nightmare.” And looks at the wooden platter, sitting on the floor near the door and its contents. Some moldy cheese, some day old bread crusts, and a dirty tankard of some kind of beverage. Sami cringes at the sudden sharp pain in the back of her neck as she moves cautiously towards the platter of food.
“This really can’t go on Lucas, Sami will bring you down just like the rest of the men she has been with. Your brother Austin for one. Sami doesn’t love you Lucas, ok granted yes some where in her sick twisted mind she thinks she does but if you let this farce of a relationship continue she will break your heart.” “Mom please ….” Begins Lucas. “How dare you Kate!” Sami screams as she slaps Kate across the face. And then launches herself at Kate thus knocking them both down. “You have no clue as to what’s truly in my heart.” Sami yells. “Oh yes I do Sami.” Kate yells back rolling Sami over. They continue rolling around on the floor hurling insults at one another when Lucas and Philip pull them apart. Lucas shouts “calm down both of you”. “ That’s the last straw Sami, Lucas let me go!” “not until you calm down and promise not to lash out at Sami again.” “Lucas I am your mother now turn me loose!!” Kate demands. “Now mom ….” He begins. “ok, alright just let me go” she demands again. She stalks off as she reaches for her cell phone.
SQUEAK, SQUEAK
Sami screams. Jerking herself out of her reverie again. Looking around and realizing where she’s at. Sami begins to cry hysterically. “shut yer trap in there ‘afore I come in there and do it fer ya lassie!” shouts the gruffy voice. Sami immediately quiets down.
Sami kisses Will goodbye and tells him she loves him just before he runs off into the school. Lucas puts an arm around her waist to guide her towards the parking lot. Tires screech to a halt. Three masked burly men jump out of a black van, grabbing Sami and knocking Lucas out cold. Sami screams “Lucas! Let me go you maniacs! Lucas! Oh god help me!” as Sami and her three assailants drive off in a cloud of dust.
Meanwhile back in Salem ….
“And then I came to and called you” Lucas finishes. “did you at least get a plate number?” asks John. “It happened too fast John I …” Lucas starts to explain. “well good! I hope we never see that tramp again.” Kate interrupts. “Watch you mouth mother you’re talking about the woman I love! If you can’t say anything nice then don’t say anything period. I am slowly losing my patience with you.” Lucas warns. Kate stares in disbelief as John watches the exchange with pride in his eyes for Lucas. “John can you get the ISA to see what they can come up with? We have to get Sami back to her family.” “I’ll see what I can do, but with no leads there is little hope. In the mean time let’s keep this between us. I’ll make it appear as if Sami went to take care of some business for Basic Black, that should buy us some time. I don’t want Will upset.” “You will never find that little tramp. She is out of our lives for good” Kate thinks to herself.
Sami scurries into a darkened corner at the sound of another voice. “I want to ‘ave a look at our ‘guest’ open up.” Bolts squeaking as the door is unlocked. “as ye wish Mr. Pike” comes the reply. Bright light rushes in hurting Sami’s eyes as the door opens and a tall figure appears in the door. Turning to the person behind him Mr. Pike asks “Why is this lass here?” “twas the Mrs. Orders Sah.” Replies the jailer. “Leave us I want to question the lass in private” orders Mr. Pike. The door is closed and Sami shudders in fear “What are you going to do to me?” she asks in a trembling voice. “easy lassie I won’t hurt you, I just want to know why you’re here that’s all” soothes Mr. Pike. Sami begins her story, a little quietly at first but speaks up after seeing that Mr. Pike isn’t going to come closer. “what is your name Lassie?” he interrupts. “I am Samantha Gene Brady” she answers. “God’s blood!” Mr. Pike exclaims. Startled Sami shrieks. “easy there Lass, everything is going to be fine.” Mr. Pike soothes. “Ivan!!” He shouts. The door opens and Mr Pike starts bellowing orders. “ I want a room above stairs prepared! A bath drawn! We have a Brady in our presence. Move man move!!” “y-yes Sah yes sah” Ivan stutters obviously shocked at the news. “Miss Brady if you please” Mr. Spike says offering Sami his hand. Sami looking like a startled deer caught in the headlights asks “where are you taking me?” “tis alright now Miss Brady your ordeal is over. Never again will you see this dungeon ” he explains. Sami places her hand in his and follows him out into the light. Mr. Pike leads Sami into the great hall and seats her next to the hearth in a huge comfy soft velvet chair. “Warm yerself lassie whilst I see to getting you a proper meal”
Sami smiles weakly still not sure what’s happening. Looking around the large room at all the tressle tables Sami thinks to herself I must be in a cheesy romance novel” suddenly her eyes light on the portrait above the huge fire place, her eyes widen in surprise “Grandpa? No it can’t be.” Wonerding aloud. “Something wrong Miss?” a small framed woman asks from behind Sami. Sami jumps with a start stammering “N-no”. recovering Sami asks “who is that man?” pointing to the portrait. “that’s our Laird, The Brady himself. Mister Shawn.” The woman replies. Sami slumps back in the chair in a dead faint.
“any news yet John?” Lucas asks. “Shane says they’re working on it and to be patient.” John replies. “We just have to find her John I’m going out of my mind here. Will keeps asking where she is, I don’t know how long I can keep it together.” Lucas explains. Placing a hand on Lucas’ shoulder John says “don’t give up on her son she’ll come home safe.”
“I’m calling to see how our ‘guest’ is doing.” Kate says. Muffled sounds from the other end of the phone. “a fire! Is she dead?” Kate asks. More muffled sounds. “you what?” she asks outraged. “you better disappear I don’t want to be found in connection with you do you hear me?” Kate orders. “In connection to who mom?” Philip asks. “I’d like to know that answer myself” Lucas chimes in looking at her suspiciously. “It was just business, there’s nothing going on.” Kate offers. “Mom if you know where Sami is you better tell us, Lucas looks as if he is about to go off on you.” Philip says. Kate appears to look shocked as Lucas warns “so help me mom if you’ve harmed Sami I’ll see you rot in prison.” “Lucas I haven’t touched your little tramp, now if you will excuse me I have things to do.” Kate says as she rushes off out the door.
“Miss, Miss please wake up” the small framed woman replies chaffing Sami’s hand. “God’s blood woman! What have you done?” Mr. Pike asks setting a trencher of food down on the side board then rushes to Sami’s side. “all I did was tell her about the Brady Sir and she fainted dead away.” The woman replies. “why would hearing about the Brady cause here to faint?” Mr. Pike wonders aloud. Opening her eyes Sami asks “I’m still dreaming?” “easy Lassie, everything is going to be fine. Hildie get Miss Brady a drink.” Says Mr. Pike. “I’m alright really. Why do you have a portrait of my grandfather over the fire place?” Sami asks taking the cup from Hildie. “God’s blood! The Brady will have our heads for this.” Mr. Pike exclaims. “why do you call my grampa Shawn ‘The Brady?” Sami asks bewildered. He owns this castle and all it’s lands Lassie, and he will not be thrilled to learn we had his granddaughter in his dungeon.” Mr. Pike explains calmly. Suddenly Sami jumps up gasping “Lucas! Will! I have to get home!” Hildie shrieks in surprise. “calm yerself Lassie, a message has been dispatched to the local Magistrate. However he won’t reach Castle Brady til dawn as he is 4 hours from here.” Mr. Pike explains. “Now then let’s get you fed and to your room, your bath will be ready soon.” He explains. Hildie sets the trencher of food in Sami’s lap and says “our apologies to our crude serving dishes Miss Brady, we find in our way of life the old ways are best”. “that explains why I feel like a character in a cheesy romance novel, thank you Hildie.” Sami says smiling. Blushing, Hildie replies “you’re welcome Miss Brady.” And scurries off to the kitchen. “Let me assure you Miss Brady, I am looking into just how you came to Castle Brady and why you were placed in the dungeon. I shutter to think what The Brady will say when he hears your tale.” Mr. Pike explains. “please call me Sami, Mr. Pike.” Sami insists. “God’s blood Miss Brady, The Brady will have me head if dunna show you the respect due a Brady.” Mr. Pike shockingly replies. Shrugging Sami places the trencher on the table beside her chair and rises “Now about that bath Mr. Pike.” Sami exclaims excitedly. “Yes Miss Brady of course.” Mr. Pike replies and turns toward the front hall where another small framed woman is waiting. “Millie escort Miss Brady to her room and see to her needs.” Then heads to the kitchen over his shoulder he says “If you need me Miss Brady just ask Millie to fetch me.” And he’s gone.
Upstairs in her room there is a huge four poster bed that looks as if it’s been there for thousands of years. By the fire place is a wooden tub with steam rising. Sami muses at her surroundings. “this place is beginning to rub off on me” she thinks to herself as she pulls off her dirty clothing and climbs into the tub. “I’ll have your clothes washed and mended Miss Brady, in the meantime Mr. Pike has instructed me to give some of Miss Daphne’s things.” Millie explains. Sami only half hears this as she’s enjoying the feel of a hot bath. “The lavender scent smells wonderful Millie thank you.” Sami says dreamily. “ Yes Miss, ‘tis my favorite. When you’re ready Miss Brady I’ll help you wash and brush your hair.” Millie offers. “mmm” is the only response.
In the court yard …
“apparently there was a fire at Castle Phoenix Sir, the jailer said his Laird ordered Miss Brady to the dungeon without food or water. The cook at Castle Phoenix helped her get out and brought her to us, with the explanation that Miss Brady was talking out of her head and the Laird had her imprisoned for fear she would infect them all with her madness. The cook also asked for refuge in fear of her life.” A young boy explains to Mr. Pike. “Well that does explain some things, but why would the Phoenix need to hide the Brady’s grand daughter? She isn’t directly involved in the fued. See what you can find out Lad and report back to me personally, the Pheonix may have spies within these walls.” Says Mr. Pike. “as ye wish Sir.” Replied the boy and scurries off. “Ivan! Come here man.” Mr. Pike orders. Ivan rushes up beside Mr. Pike and asks “what is it yer wantin’ Sah? I was gettin’ ready ta head ta me bed.” “There will be no bed for you until I get some answers Ivan” Mr. Pike says. “Yes Sah.” Ivan replies sheepishly. “why did you place Miss Brady in that cell without questioning her man? The Brady will have our heads for this if we can’t give him answers!” Mr. Pike exclaims. “she is mad I tell you Sah, she was hollerin’ somethin’ fierce about the Missus over ta Castle Phoenix, tryin’ ta kill her. Sah we know the Missus she’s as sweet as she can be, she couldn’t possible harm a hair on anyone’s head much less Miss Brady’s.” Ivan explains. “hmmm, thank you Ivan go find yer bed.” Mr. Pike says absently. “Yes Sah.” Replies Ivan and shuffles off.
“Thanks Shane, I owe you one Buddy!” John says and hangs up the phone. “Lucas, pack your bags we’re going to Ireland.” He says. “Shane found Sami? Is she alright? How did she get there? Who would do such a thing?” Lucas asks excitedly. “easy there son, one thing at a time. Now go get Will situated at the pub and throws some things in a bag. Time is wasting.” John explains then dials a number on his cell phone. “this is John Black, I want my jet fueled and ready to go an one hour!” then disconnects the call and dials another number. “Shawn, this is John. I’m headed to Ireland can you get word to the overseer at Castle Brady that I am coming and bringing a guest?” “oh sure John, no problem. Is something wrong over there?” Shawn asks. “I can’t go into now but I’ll fill you in when I get back. Oh and Lucas is bringing Will over. What ever you do, do not let Kate near him.” And hangs up he dials one more number. “Bo, I need a favor? Haul Kate in to the station and detain her for questioning in the disappearance of Samantha Brady. Yes you heard right. Trust me on this Bo I’ll explain everything when I get back from Ireland.” He hangs up and heads out the door.
At the police station …
“Stevens? Take Johnson and head over to Basic Black. Kate Roberts is wanted for questioning in a kidnapping case.” Orders Bo. “Yes Commander” replies Stevens and the two officers head out the door.
At Basic Black …
“Get those documents typed up and faxed to the client as soon as you can” Kate says. “Yes Miss Roberts.” Replies the secretary. “Kate Roberts? You’re wanted for questioning down at the police department.” Stevens informs her. “What is the meaning of this? Who ordered this?” Kate asks outraged. “Commander Brady did Ma’am” Johnson explains. “Please come with us Miss Roberts.” Stevens insists. “Just let me get my purse.” Kate says as the two officers follow her into her office.
Back at the cop shop …
“John didn’t say anything else?” Hope asks Bo. “He said to trust him and that he’s off to Ireland.” Bo replies. “Ireland? I have a feeling Stefano is involved in this Bo. Yes, I know, Stefano is supposed to be dead, but if John’s going to Ireland he must be headed to Castle Phoenix Bo.” Hope muses. A ruckus in the squad room catches Bo and hope’s attention. “I demand to know why I was dragged down here like a common criminal.” Kate says in outrage. “Kate Roberts, you’re wanted for questioning in the disappearance of Samantha Brady.” Bo informs her. “what?” Kate asks feigning innocence. “In my office Kate.” Kate walk into Bo’s office with Hope on her heels.
On the Basic Black Jet …
“Shane said the ISA tracked Sami to the pier. She was put on a boat bound for Ireland. The three men who took her are Stefano’s men. If she’s still alive she’s at Castle Phoenix.” John explains to Lucas. “I worked for Toni, how come I wasn’t aware of this castle John?” Lucas asks. “It’s probably where Stefano has been hiding out. Something else you don’t know, Shawn owns a castle as well” John continues. “Shawn?” Lucas asks confused. “He inherited it from his father and his father before him” John explains. “that will be HQ, Shawn is sending word to the overseer that we are coming. Lucas,” John pauses and looks him in the eye with concern. “Your mother may or may not be involved. We’ll find out when we get to Castle Phoenix.” He finishes. “I warned her She better not be involved in this. I hope for Will’s sake she isn’t.” Lucas says his voice trembling. The phone beside John comes to life breaking the silence. “yeah?” John answers. “Mr. Black we will be landing shortly to refuel before we head for Ireland please fasten your seat belts.” The pilot informs him. John hangs up and tells Lucas to buckle up.
Back at Castle Brady …
Millie is helping Sami get settled into the huge bed. A knock at the door announces the arrival of Mr. Pike. “May I come in Miss Brady?” He asks. “Yes Mr. Pike please do.” Sami replies. Millie finishes fluffing Sami’s pillows and steps back. “Millie please wait outside while I speak to Miss Brady.” He orders gently. Millie curtsies and scurries off closing the door behind her.
“Miss Brady, can ye tell me who is Kate Roberts to ye? Why would ye accuse her of attemptin’ murder agin’ yer person?” He asks quietly. “Kate? She’s my son’s grandmother. Lucas’ mother. She has hated me for years. She doesn’t want Lucas and I together. I just know she is behind all of this. Why do you ask, Mr. Pike?” “Hmmm. Oh I’m trying to find out how ye came to be at Castle Brady and why ye was put in the dungeon.” He says. “and you think Kate is involved?” she asks. He nods and says “ye need yer rest lassie, we’ll talk more in the morning.” And he walks out the door. Millie rushes in and says “Mr. Pike wishes me to stay and watch over ye through the night Miss.” And scurries about the room extinguishing the candles. Sami settles back in her pillows and drifts off to sleep.
Several hours later….
“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAhhhhhhhhhhhh” Sami sit’s up in bed and looks around “Lucas where are you? I need you Lucas” Sami says disoriented. “Miss Brady, tis Millie. You’re at Castle Brady. Miss Brady are ye alright?” Millie asks concern in her voice. “Millie? Oh um yes it was just a nightmare.” Sami replies.
On the Basic Black Jet …
Lucas wakes with a start “Sami?” “How you doin’, Lucas?” John asks. “Sami’s in trouble John, I can feel it.” Lucas replies fear evident in his voice. “easy son, we’ll be there soon.” John says as the phone beside him chirps to life once again “talk to me” John says. “Mr. Black, we will be landing in 15 minutes. Please fasten your seat belts.” Says the Pilot. “right” John says and hangs the phone up. “this is it Lucas, buckle up.”
In the court yard of Castle Brady…
A horse and rider come riding in and the trellis is lowered. The rider jumps from His horse and shouts “Mr. Pike! Mr. Pike! Word from the Brady!” thinking to himself “God’s blood! we are all in the stew now”. “what is it man?” he asks. “visitor’s comin’ Mr. Pike. The Brady said that a Mr. John Black and guest would be arriving and ta see we treats ‘em as we do him.” The rider explains. “The mercenary is comin’ here? Good god man, get to the kitchen and warn cook. And tell Hildie to stoke the fire in the great hall. Summon the scullery maid and have ready the rooms. Well don’t just stand there man move” Mr. Pike orders watching the rider run towards the stable and kitchen areas. “some one rouse Ivan, The mercenary will be wantin’ to question him”.
Inside the staff is buzzing about the arrival of the mercenary. Suddenly Sami appears in the door way and a hush falls over the room. “ahem” Mr. Pike clears his throat. “Why Miss Brady, ain’t you a vision in Miss Daphne’s gown.” He says his voice cracking a bit. “Miss Daphne? John’s mother?” Sami asks. “yes Lass, she and the Brady were close. And speakin’ of the merce..uh Mr. Black, He’ll be arrivin’ shortly Miss Brady.” He informs her. “John’s coming? Oh thank god I can go home to Will and Lucas!” Sami exclaims with tears in her eyes.
As the sun rises over the castle walls a cry goes up…
“The mercenary comes! The mercenary comes!”
“on your feet lads, we’ve work ta do.” Mr. Pike commands. Two horses appear through the gate Sami is on the Castle steps watching. Lucas and Sami see each other at the same time. “Sami!!” “Lucas!!” they shout in unison. Sami picks up her skirts and makes a mad dash towards Lucas. Lucas jumps from his horse and reaches Sami in two strides holding open his arms. Sami flies into his arms as they kiss. Lucas breaks the kiss and asks in an urgent voice “are you alright? Let me look at you?” he runs his hands over her arms reassuring himself she is alright. With tears in her eyes and choking back sobs Sami says “I, I am now” as Lucas wipes away her tears. John approaches and clears his throat. Sami turns towards John a smile on her face then hugs him. “thank you” she whispers. John closes his eyes and silently thanks god Sami is alive. “Hildie, escort Miss Brady and her uhm friend to the great hall. And see to his needs.” Mr. Pike says. Sami pulls free of John and walks arm in arm with Lucas to the castle. John and Mr. Pike exchange greetings as they walk towards the old armory room. Mr. Pike fills John in on the information he gathered on his end. And John questions Ivan. After their little pow wow Mr. Pike escorts John to the great hall and offers him some refreshment. Lucas and Sami are no where in sight. “where the Brady’s granddaughter and her young friend Hildie?” he asks. “Miss Brady and Master Roberts have retired to her room Sir.” She answers then returns to her task. “You need ta eat Mr. Black then Hildie will show you ta your room where a bath with be waiting.” I’m sure yer a wantin ta head back and give The Brady yer report. A few hours rest and ye will be ready to go.” Mr. Pike says. “yes I’m anxious to return Sami to her family. I trust you will be going to Castle Phoenix and investigate further?” John enquires. “yes, The Brady will be wantin’ a report.” Mr. Pike answers. “good, good. I best head up now, I need to be planning our return trip home.” John says. “aye, Mr. John. Hildie?”
That night back in Salem …
“I keep telling you both I have no idea where Sami is.” Kate yells. Suddenly the door bursts open “I want to press charges uncle Bo” Sami insists. Kate’s eyes widen at the sound of Sami’s voice. Lucas cannot look Kate in the eye. “ok I need statements, Stevens take Kate to the holding cell.” Bo says. “Sami let’s get your statement” Hope urges. And takes her to the squad room. Sami reaches out for Lucas as they walk out of Bo’s office. Inside Bo’s office John fills Bo in.
later…
“Kate Roberts you are under arrest for the kidnapping and attempted murder of Samantha Brady…” Bo reads Kate her rights.
The End
Free Forum Hosting
Important Announcement
First 