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    The Red Trilogy
    The Red Trilogy
    The Red Trilogy
    Ebook806 pages11 hours

    The Red Trilogy

    By Gerald Lopez

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    About this ebook

    Join detective Layton Shayne and his friends and allies on an adventure so big and exciting that it spans three novels. This complete trilogy edition includes book 1- Red Dread Ahead; book 2- Scarlet Water Under an Azure Sky; and book 3- Crimson Snow.

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherGerald Lopez
    Release dateJan 6, 2021
    ISBN9781005664855
    The Red Trilogy
    Author

    Gerald Lopez

    Gerald was called to write at various times in his life. When he was young, the writing consisted of plays and short stories. Then he explored the fine arts and literature, earning a bachelor’s degree in the latter while minoring in art history. In his studies he was fascinated by and enjoyed analyzing characters, their personalities and motivations. To him it’s always been the characters who make a story special. Once again writing has taken hold of him. In the past it was just an amusement, but now—for Gerald—writing is a passion to live, eat, and breathe.

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      Book preview

      The Red Trilogy - Gerald Lopez

      Copyright Information

      Red Dread Ahead © 2020 by Gerald Lopez

      Scarlet Water Under an Azure Sky © 2020 by Gerald Lopez

      Crimson Snow Copyright © 2020 by Gerald Lopez

      All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

      This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

      This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

      Wherever possible, the syntax and spelling in this book follows guidelines set forth in The Chicago Manual of Style, 14th Edition, and in the Merriam-Webster online dictionary.

      Cover Art Copyright © 2020 by Gerald Lopez

      Table of Contents

      Red Dread Ahead

      Scarlet Water Under an Azure Sky

      Crimson Snow

      Contact the author

      About the author

      Other books by Gerald Lopez

      Red Dread Ahead

      Gerald Lopez

      Chapter 1

      Home Sweet Home

      I WAS STILL outside on the porch rocker reading to Chip, who sat in my lap, when Forrest walked outside barefoot. Instinctively, I glanced down at his nice tan feet.

      So this is where you two have been hiding, Forrest said.

      Daddy Layton and I have been reading, Chip said.

      I can see that, Forrest said. You should’ve put on your pajamas first.

      Is it bedtime for our boy? I said.

      Not quite, Forrest said. Since a lot of the students at Chip’s school went to Shiloh Key with their parents, a teacher’s work day was declared. Meaning no classes for our boy tomorrow. I, however, have to get up early for work.

      Aw, I said.

      The rocking chair you’re in is fine, but I’ve always loved the porch swing in the corner, Forrest said. Can I convince you two to join me there?

      You know, I think you can, I said. What do you say, Chip?

      OK, Chip said.

      After getting up while holding Chip and the book, I looked at the swing. "I think those chains holding the swing will support our combined weight.

      So do I, Chip said.

      Forrest took Chip from me and I gave him a questioning look.

      Layton, go sit in the corner of the swing, Forrest said.

      I did so, then Forrest walked over. He reclined in the swing with Chip in his lap. His legs hung over the side arm of the swing and his head was in my lap. Chip lay snuggly in his dad’s arms. With some contorting I managed to reach Forrest’s lips and kiss him. Chip giggled and I went back to reading his storybook out loud.

      Well don’t you three look cozy, Shannon Henry said, as she looked at us while holding a tray of cookies. Can I interest any of you in one of Mrs. Carson’s cookies? She made some dough before she left for Hawaii and froze it. It was a simple task to bake them—I just dropped the dough by spoonfuls onto a pan.

      I could go for one, Forrest said. And I think I can safely say both Layton and Chip would like a cookie as well.

      Shannon smiled then placed the tray of cookies on the small table in front of the swing. The front door opened, and Linus and Rory walked out of the house carrying a tray with plastic tumblers on it.

      Milk coming through, Rory said.

      Shannon looked down at her bare feet, laughed, then spoke. Oh my God I’m getting as bad as all of you. There’s not one of us out here on the front porch with shoes on.

      We all laughed. Rory, Linus, and Shannon sat in rockers, and Forrest, Chip, and I told them all about our trip to Shiloh Key, including the parts about the ghosts, the treasure, and the wedding. A short time later, Forrest was carrying a sleeping Chip upstairs with me following behind. Alex and Charity had prepared his room, as well as one for Alex, Forrest, and me that was next door to Chip’s.

      Will Chip be OK if he wakes up alone in a different room than he’s used to? Alex said when we left Chip’s room.

      He’ll be fine, Forrest said. And I already told him we’d be in the room next door if he needs anything.

      We were all sleepy from the drive and everything that had transpired in Shiloh Key, so it was an activity-free night in bed. Forrest left early the next morning to go back to his old home to change. That left Chip, Rory, Alex, and me in the house. Linus, Charity, and Sassy had all left early, and Shannon was in the guesthouse. As we were all hungry, I scrounged around the kitchen until I found the ingredients to make pancakes. It didn’t take long for me to serve the fluffy concoctions to a hungry crowd.

      You’re not a bad cook, Rory said, from where he sat with Alex and Chip at the kitchen island. These pancakes are yummy.

      Yeah, Chip said.

      Rory, where did you say everyone is today? Alex said.

      I listened for the reply while I made more pancakes.

      Big brother Forrest is at work, Rory said. Linus is finishing up a couple of stained glass projects he’s working on. One’s for a woman that lives near his Momma’s house, and the other’s for Nathan Chandler. Chandler’s the artist, remember?

      Uncle Rory, can we go in the pool? Chip said.

      No problem, buddy, Rory said. But I’ve got some work to get done first. Are you sure you don’t have school work to do before you go swimming?

      I think Chip is forgetting something, Alex said, as I was getting more pancakes from the stack I’d placed on the table.

      Oh yeah, Chip said. I have to draw a picture and write something about our trip to the key for class. If we went we have to tell the class about the trip.

      Are you going to tell them about the ghosts? I said.

      Chip shook his head and said no.

      Oh, maybe you’re gonna tell them about the treasure, Alex said.

      Nooo, Chip said, then giggled.

      I know, Rory said. He’s gonna tell them about the beautiful beach.

      No, Chip said, and giggled some more.

      What then? Alex said.

      I’m gonna tell them about how pretty Antoinette was, Chip said, then giggled again.

      "How pretty Antoinette is, I said. Antoinette’s still alive so it’s is not was." I poured syrup over my pancakes.

      OK, Daddy, Chip said.

      Didn’t know you were an English teacher there, boss, Rory said to me.

      My granny was and she drummed ‘is’ and ‘was’ into my mind, I said. Where did you say Charity and Sassy went?

      I didn’t, Rory said. Charity was rushing to her old home for something or another, and Sassy went along. Oh, yeah, there is something you’d be interested in, boss.

      What’s that? I said.

      "Shannon has been in constant communication with your boss from The Organization, Leticia," Rory said.

      That is interesting, Alex said.

      My mouth was too full to talk, so Rory spoke again.

      "I’m not betraying any secrets with what I just told you. Shannon said I could tell you guys about Leticia, and that she’d be speaking with you, Layton. That’s Shannon would be speaking with you not Leticia."

      When? I said.

      I don’t know, Rory said. I’m guessing she meant some time after you got up. And since you’re up, it can be any minute now I suppose.

      Where’s Shannon now? Alex said.

      And has she had breakfast yet? I said.

      She’s in the Indian pavilion and all she had this morning was a cup of coffee, Rory said.

      Layton, you need to make some more pancakes and head over to the pavilion, Alex said. I’ll help Chip with his paper after we’re through eating and putting the dishes in the dishwasher.

      Sounds like a plan, I said, then turned to Chip. Be good and work on that paper quickly so we can go swimming when I’m done, OK, buddy.

      OK, Chip said. I really want to go swimming.

      "Start cooking, boss," Alex said.

      I didn’t have to be told twice. There had to be some big reason why Leticia was in communication with Shannon, and I was anxious to find out what it was.

      Chapter 2

      Sweet Talker

      MMM… PANCAKES, Shannon said when I walked up with a tray bearing gifts.

      There’s also orange juice, and heated syrup to use on the pancakes. All for you, my lady, I said then smiled, and with a grand gesture I placed the tray on the table in front of the Indian bench covered in richly adorned fabrics that Shannon sat upon.

      Layton, you don’t need to spoil me for me to relinquish my secrets.

      So says our ebony queen as she sits resplendent on her throne, I said, then smiled again.

      Oh my, you are a sweet talker. Almost as much of one as our Rory.

      Has he been sweet talking you?

      After flashing Shannon a smile, I sat in the chair across from the bench in the small but cozy pavilion outside the main house.

      I do love this pavilion, Shannon said. "It’s simple really but wonderfully decorated.

      You’re deflecting.

      Lucky, the three-legged resident dog peered out from beneath the bench and sniffed the air.

      Shannon daintily tore off a piece of one of the three pancakes on her plate and gave it to Lucky who gobbled it up.

      You can’t blame Rory for being interested, I said. He does appreciate women in a different way than Alex or I do. And you are a beautiful, intelligent, and classy lady.

      She swallowed what she ate then laughed. My daddy always told me to watch out should a white man come-a-courting.

      So Rory’s courting then.

      Shannon chuckled then took a bite of one of the pancakes. She heard Lucky whine, and broke off another piece of her pancake to give him.

      Am I allowed to ask about what Leticia called you to discuss? I said.

      She hired me to help you, Shannon said, before taking a sip of her juice. And she’s sending me a lot of information about Monique and her father Sandoval.

      Interesting. Do I dare ask about what sort of intel you’ve gathered?

      The locations of several of Sandoval’s communities in the United States, and some more personal items belonging to Monique that are being sent from Louisiana.

      You’ll need a work space then.

      Maybe even some boards on which to tack on charts and information, Shannon said.

      And battle plans? I said.

      Not yet, Shannon said. Maybe not at all. But I’m guessing at some point they’ll want to send a small team to see exactly what Sandoval is doing.

      Is that part of what Charity’s parents are up to—investigating Sandoval?

      No. These pancakes are very good, who made them.

      I did, I said. The special ingredient is love.

      We both laughed then Shannon spoke. Charity’s parents analyze energy—specifically life forces or lack thereof. Leticia’s been vague and I asked her why.

      What did she say?

      There are various divisions within The Organization looking into things. Politics are also coming into play and slowing down progress. Layton, she’s clearly making sure you’re ready to head a future team against Sandoval and whatever his plans may be.

      Yeah, I gathered that much. Take over a space in my office. Put in what you need and keep tabs on what you spend so I can reimburse you.

      The money side of things has already been handled by The Organization.

      That’s efficient of them, I said.

      Maybe so, but they’ve never made me pancakes with warm syrup.

      I smiled, then said something that was sort of mischievous. If you did marry Rory you’d be around all the time.

      Rory is handsome and charming, but he needs to settle things in other areas of his life first. A girl doesn’t like having competition for her man’s affections.

      Do you have competition?

      Not at present from what I’ve been told, Shannon said. But Rory doesn’t discriminate in terms of skin color, body types, or gender.

      The gender part being the problem, I said. I kind of thought Rory just availed himself of whoever or whatever was around when he’s feeling randy.

      That was very well put, Layton. Let’s just say I haven’t ruled anything out, but I’m not seriously considering any proposals at present.

      Spoken like a wise queen indeed.

      Shannon laughed, and I backed out of the pavilion with a low bow. I was being somewhat silly, but Shannon was a slim, beautiful woman with perfect ebony skin. Her short haircut further emphasized her regal beauty and made me think of royalty.

      And there’s nothing wrong with us white boys, I said. Some of us can even tan.

      As I walked back to the house I cold hear Shannon laughing again. Lucky was smart and stayed behind where there was still food to be gotten. After going upstairs and putting my bathing suit on I peeked into the kitchen where Alex and Chip were working.

      I’m all done, Chip said, when he saw me.

      We found some markers and were even able to get Chip’s drawing done, Alex said.

      Chip held up the drawing he’d done of a little blonde girl and two boys in a tree house.

      That is really cool, I said. Let me guess. Is that you, Bogie, and Antoinette in the tree house at Shiloh Key?

      Yes! Chip said. I already have my swimsuit on.

      And I do too, Alex said. So we are ready to go swimming. Yay!"

      Woo-hoo! I said.

      Alex and I walked happily next to Chip, holding his hand and lifting him up while swinging him from time to time as we walked outside toward the pool. We’d been in the pool splashing and swimming a while when Rory appeared.

      Hi, Uncle Rory, Chip said.

      Come on in! I said.

      Rory stripped down and ran to do a cannonball into the pool. Chip laughed and pointed to his uncle.

      He’s naked, Chip said, then giggled.

      Why are you guys wearing swimsuits? Rory said, when he popped back up from the water.

      Why aren’t you? I said.

      Our parents used to take Forrest and I to a family nudist campground since we were babies, Rory said. Linus used to come with us too when we were older. And Chip went with us after he came into the world.

      Oh, um… well, I said. We didn’t know that, so I guess next time we don’t need the suits.

      Hey, Rory said, I‘ll have you know that family nudist campgrounds are safe places for kids. Maybe even safer than regular places, because in a nudist campground you can tell what everyone’s up to. And they can’t hide things in pockets etcetera because they’re nude.

      There is that, Alex said. My family and people who came to visit were always nude around the house. He was holding Chip who he spun around in the water. We’ll need to establish our family rules for the court I suppose. Anyway, I have a bit of news.

      You’re pregnant because of some supernaturally infused object, Rory said.

      Chip laughed loudly as did the rest of us.

      Daddies can’t have babies, Chip said. Girls do.

      "Actually women do, Alex said. And no I am not pregnant. My news is not quite that exciting. But it’s something that needs to be dealt with sooner rather than later."

      That sounds ominous, Rory said.

      Chapter 3

      Timing

      WHAT’S UP, BABE? I said.

      I need to go back home and get the rest of my stuff this week, Alex said.

      Not a problem, I said. We can do that. When do you want to go? And how much time will it take for you to pack your things?

      I already arranged to have everything packed by a temporary assistant I had, Alex said. But, I need to rent a U-Haul to bring the stuff here.

      Maybe Forrest can come with us to help, I said.

      If not, I’d be glad to go with you guys, Rory said.

      I appreciate that, Rory, Alex said.

      After a bit I noticed that Chip was getting tired, so we got out of the pool. Chip laid down on the outdoor lounge, and Rory got dressed in his shorts again.

      So, boss man, what did you find out from Shannon? Rory said, when we sat on some outdoor chairs around a table.

      Leticia is sending her some information I need to look at involving Monique and Sandoval, I said. It seems like Shannon will be here a while to help catch me up on things.

      That’s not bad in my book, Rory said.

      Or so I’ve heard, I said.

      Really? Rory said. So do I stand a chance with Shannon or no?

      She hasn’t closed the door to anything, I said, but she’s not sure which team you play for, so to speak.

      Why exclude anyone when I have a need or desire? Rory said.

      Good luck, Alex said, sarcastically. You’re gonna need it. Women don’t want to think their man might leave them for another… man.

      I have no problem committing myself to the right person, Rory said. Whatever that commitment might entail.

      Like I said, good luck, Alex said.

      If you need pointers, Rory, just talk to Alex, I said. He landed me, didn’t he?

      We laughed. When Chip woke from his nap, Rory cooked hot dogs and hamburgers for us and Shannon, who had joined our group along with Lucky the dog.

      Miss Shannon, are you gonna be my new auntie, Chip said.

      That’s the million dollar question, Alex said.

      I don’t know, Chip, Shannon said. Your family has already grown a lot lately, don’t you think?

      Yeah Chip said. But I knew I’d have new daddies, and my old daddy is really happy about it.

      "Big bro wouldn’t be happy hearing you call him old," Rory said.

      So how bad do you think things will get with Sandoval? Alex said to Shannon.

      Pretty bad, I should think, Shannon said. His people seem to be mobilizing for some reason.

      Mobilizing? I said. As in forming an army of some sort?

      Not that, Shannon said. They work more along the lines of a cult with members who would do Sandoval’s bidding no matter what he asks.

      That’s scary, Chip said.

      Just don’t get involved in any crazy cults, kiddo, Rory said.

      Trust me, that’s very good advice, Alex said.

      Hello, Forrest said as he walked toward us still dressed in his police uniform.

      Daddy! Chip said, then ran to Forrest who picked him up and gave him a hug.

      Have you behaved with your daddies and uncle? Forrest said.

      Yes, Sir, Chip said.

      Good, Forrest said. Rory, you owe me some babysitting, and I’m calling it in starting now.

      What’s up? Rory said.

      My guys and I need to be alone to have some adult talk back at the court, Forrest said.

      Forrest, Alex, and I walked back to the main house. While Alex spoke, my attention and eyes were on Forrest’s perfect ass.

      Did something happen? Alex said.

      Huh? Forrest said.

      You said we needed to have adult talk, I said.

      Did I say adult talk? Forrest said. I meant we need some adult interaction. The kind that probably won’t involve talk.

      Along the way Alex told Forrest about the need to go back to get things from Louisiana.

      Rory offered to come with us to help, Alex said.

      I’ve got some days off due to me, I’ll go, Forrest said. Rory can stay here and keep an eye on the place. We might want to ask Linus to join us.

      Linus? Alex said.

      He is part of our family now, Forrest said. You two need to spend some time with him.

      How long have you and Rory known Linus?

      Since we were teenagers, Forrest said. Well, actually Rory and he are closer in age than he and I are.

      Wow, I said. That’s a long time to be friends. And you even took Linus with you to the nudist campground.

      Yeah, Forrest said. It was fun. And before you ask, the three of us did some experimenting together of a sexual kind.

      Which stopped or continued till when exactly? Alex said.

      Why stop with a good thing? Forrest said. "Linus and I had some hot times together. And to reiterate he will be living with us as family—a family unit."

      We definitely need court rules, I said. Linus’s future wife is having our children, but I’m not interested in sex with her.

      And what if Alex or I are? Forrest said.

      Are either of you interested in sex with females? I said.

      It’s never happened, Forrest said, nor is it going to. I identify as gay not bi.

      Ditto, Alex said. But I see your previous point, Forrest. We can’t be two separate units—one consisting of three people the other of two—and form one cohesive family—not the type we’re talking about anyway.

      Then what? I said. I don’t think five of us could fit comfortably in one bed.

      No, Forrest said. Funny how you mention bed though, as that’s right where I had it in my mind to go with the two of you.

      And that was exactly where we went. Five might not be comfortable in a bed, but three certainly was nice. It really was amazing how well Alex, Forrest, and I fit together. In life and certainly when making love. Things were passionate between us and we made love with such gusto that we lay back depleted in every way when we were done.

      Earlier, were we talking about including Linus in our lovemaking, Alex said.

      Forrest and I both responded by kissing Alex deeply and with tongue. He kissed us back then spoke.

      As sexy as that kiss was, it’s not an answer, Alex said. And where exactly do we draw the line at adding people to our immediate family—meaning daddies and mommies?

      You bring up an interesting point, Forrest said, before kissing the top of my ass. There’s not really a reason to add another maternal figure to our home, is there? The four daddies thing is just how it has to be.

      Yeah, I said. In answer to Alex’s question, I don’t see the need to add any other parental-type members to our family. I had turned and was rubbing my ass against Alex’s cock while I played with Forrest’s balls. If there will only be one mommy in this house, then why is Chip calling Charity ‘Mommy Charity’ and not just Mommy?

      You, stud, have made a valid point, Forrest said, then lowered himself on the bed and teased the head of my cock with his tongue. We’ll talk to Charity and Linus about that tonight.

      No more starting anything until we’ve reached some sort of conclusions about things, Alex said. If Linus walked in right now and wanted to join us what would or should we do?

      ‘Should do’ doesn’t factor into anything, I said. No one in this house is gonna do something because they feel compelled to do it.

      I agree, Forrest said. Unlike the two of you, I’ve known Linus a long time and we’ve bonded. The two of you have barely even spoken to him.

      True enough, I said.

      I’m just not sure what the right thing to do is, Alex said. "How can I even trust my own judgment completely when my parents and sisters kept me in the dark for so long? We’re still dealing with the blue light and Sandoval, all of which had connections with or to my family.

      Do you love me completely, Alex? Forrest said.

      Yes. If I’m sure about anything in this world is my love for you and Layton, Alex said. And Chip of course.

      Does loving us mean you trust us too? Forrest said.

      Completely, Alex said. Probably more than I trust myself at times.

      Forrest moved over to Alex and held him tightly.

      Then trust us now with this new family we’re building, Forrest said. Or to be specific, trust me in regard to Linus and Charity. This whole situation might not work out with anyone else but it will with them. We don’t need to put up walls to protect ourselves from anyone in this house. Linus and Charity are the most trustworthy people I’ve ever met.

      Alex, if it makes you feel any better remember what happened to me, I said. "My ex partner and nephew were carrying on and I didn’t even know it until I walked in on them. And since I’m a detective that’s pretty damn bad. I’m gonna put all my trust in Forrest. He is older and wiser." I chuckled.

      My last comment made Forrest get up walk over to my side and spank my ass.

      I did say you had all of my trust, I said. "That was nice of me."

      Yes it was, Forrest said, then kissed the spot on my ass that he’d spanked. I say we just go with the flow. Nobody walking around on eggshells as to what may or may not happen. But, if something happens naturally between any of us—or even all of us—nobody gets jealous or upset. Hell, if Linus were in the kitchen fucking Layton, and I walked in and wanted to join in I would. If I didn’t feel like it then, I’d just watch them or say have fun then move on.

      That sounds very reasonable, Alex said. But what if Linus wants to join in with us and we or one of us doesn’t want him to?

      Linus is very insightful when it comes to people, Forrest said. And he’s capable of handling the word ‘no’ without any bad feelings. Besides, if Linus wanted to join in I’m not sure any of us would say no.

      He’s that good, huh? I said.

      Better than, Forrest said. He’s turned making love into an art form. Let me put it this way, he taught me everything I know and is still the master. We laughed. Is that all questions answered because I am ready for another round of lovemaking?

      No, Alex said. What about nudity in the home or at the pool house? Rory told us that you’ve taken Chip with you to a family nudist campground. He was surprised we wore bathing suits in the pool today.

      I don’t want our son having any problems regarding nudity or his body, Forrest said. The pool is private and I think should be clothing optional. Linus is a practicing nudist, Charity not so much. But we’re not really alone on this estate, we have Mrs. Carson living on the property and do get visitors.

      Maybe we could keep the upstairs area to immediate family only for the majority of the time and make it a clothing optional zone, Alex said. But we’d need to make sure Chip understands that there are places you wear clothing and places you don’t.

      I’ve already spoken to him about that, Forrest said, but it wouldn’t hurt to keep reminding him of how things work in the real world vs our world.

      Being in bed with two brainiacs is really turning me on, I said. Can one of you geniuses figure out a solution to my problem?

      There is one more important thing to figure out, Forrest said.

      What’s that? Alex said.

      Before Forrest could tell us what was on his mind he was interrupted by the sound of a phone ringing.

      Chapter 4

      Family Dinner

      ALEX PICKED UP his phone and answered it. After a few seconds he turned to Forrest and me.

      We’re having our first formal dinner as a family tonight, Alex said, then chuckled. What do you two like on your pizza?

      Pepperoni and bacon, I said.

      That works for me, Forrest said.

      Alex relayed what we’d said to the person on the phone and after hanging up turned his attention back to us.

      That was Charity, Alex said. She’s picking up pizzas and drinks. Shannon, Rory, and Sassy will be joining us as will Linus, who should be back home soon. He stood and stared at Forrest and us and I knew what he was thinking.

      No you cannot go get your camera to take our picture, I said. I’m hungry right now—for you.

      That was kind of a lame comment, Forrest said, then chuckled.

      And you can say it better, I said, sarcastically.

      Yeah, Forrest said, then addressed Alex. Come here so I can have your ass for an appetizer while Layton sucks your dick.

      That was direct and to the point, I said. I’ll give you credit for that.

      It’s good you two are great in bed, but it’d be even better with less talk and more action, Alex said.

      Your wish is our command.

      We were finished and lying in bed under the covers when there was a knock on our door.

      It’s me, Linus, can I come in a sec?

      Come on in, I said.

      I’m not interrupting anything, am I? Linus said as he entered.

      No, we’re just relaxing at this point, Alex said.

      OK, Linus said, Alex, I just wanted to say that my vehicle The Beast is all yours to use anytime after Wednesday. I’ll need it to deliver a couple stained glass pieces tomorrow.

      I’ve got time to lend you a hand with those deliveries, if you want, I said.

      I’ll take you up on that, Layton, thanks. Linus said.

      Linus, if you have time why don’t you come with us to Louisiana, Alex said. It’ll give us all a chance to get to know each other better.

      Rory was going to stay here at the court anyway, Forrest said. He can keep an eye on Charity and make sure she doesn’t overdo it.

      That would be great, Linus said. It’d be nice to spend more time with you guys. Count me in. Layton, we’ll need to leave early tomorrow.

      Not a problem, I said.

      I’d offer to help too, Alex said. But I’m expecting some important calls tomorrow and I don’t know at what time.

      Don’t worry about it, Alex, Linus said. Layton and I can handle the deliveries on our own."

      Linus, Forrest said, the guys and I were talking and we had a question to ask you and Charity.

      Shoot, Linus said.

      Would it be OK if Chip calls Charity just Mommy and not Mommy Charity, Forrest said. I don’t really envision a reason we’d ever have to add another mommy to our household.

      Funnily enough Charity mentioned the same thing to me last night before we went to bed, Linus said. It’s a great idea and we wouldn’t want Chip to ever feel like he’s being treated differently than the other kids.

      Thanks, Forrest said. I appreciate that. And Chip might as well call you Daddy Linus.

      After sitting at the edge of the bed, Linus spoke.

      On a serious note, fellas, we probably do need to talk about who will be the kids—all the kids’—legal guardians if anything were to happen. Working with The Organization isn’t the safest of jobs.

      We didn’t get that far in our thinking yet, I said. But you’re not wrong about what you’re saying, Linus. And if we’re gonna raise the kids, including Chip, like one family of siblings then I—for one, want them to stay together should anything happen to me.

      I agree, Alex said.

      Me too, Forrest said.

      I figured that was just a given, so did Charity, Linus said. Don’t stress about it, guys, we’ll get everything ironed out. I’d better wash up, I probably stink from sweating all day.

      That does explain how you stay thin, I said.

      It’s all muscle too, Linus said. Once we get settled in we should try to wake up early and do some yoga together in the mornings.

      I’d like that, Forrest said. I miss when we did yoga together.

      It has been a while, Linus said.

      Sounds like a plan to me, I said.

      Me too, Alex said.

      Cool, Linus said, then got up from the bed, waved bye, and left the room.

      I love the way the guy thinks already, I said.

      Even though part of me is worried about liking someone I don’t really know… I like Linus already too, Alex said.

      Hearing you two guys say that makes me happy, Forrest said. Rory and I both love Linus and Charity a lot.

      Forrest kissed Alex then me on the lips.

      "This really is gonna work out, isn’t it?" Alex said.

      Of course, I said. But as sad as it is for me to say this, we need to get up from bed and clean up for dinner.

      Layton, I keep forgetting to ask if you’ve heard back from the Mt. Ore guys regarding your truck, Forrest said.

      They called earlier and let me know they’re just waiting for one special part to arrive that they plan on adding to my truck, I said.

      What’s that? Alex said.

      A rocket launcher, I said.

      Is that even street legal? Forrest said.

      Maybe you should forget I mentioned it, Officer, Sir, I said.

      I don’t know, Forrest said.

      I’ll do anything, Officer Hanson. I said, then ran my tongue along the shaft of his cock.

      Later, while Forrest and Alex were helping Charity and Sassy get the pizzas out of Charity’s car, I stood in the dining room listening to Linus. He was pointing out all the different types of woods used in the round knights of Camelot themed table to me and Shannon. Rory and Chip were also in the room.

      It’s a work of art alright, I said. Remarkably well made as well. I love the two bases.

      And it’s too heavy for a ghost to pick up, Shannon said. Not that there are ghosts at the court anymore thanks to you, Layton.

      I’m not sure the rest of the decor around the table works now, though, Linus said.

      It doesn’t, Charity said, walking in with two boxes of pizzas she placed on the table. I’m no prude, but I think we should probably relocate Alex’s superb artwork featuring him and several African natives nude to the upstairs area.

      Are we worried about what the neighbors might think? Rory said. That photograph is a museum worthy work of art.

      There’s certainly a lot of pretty things on display in that picture to appreciate, Linus said. Especially Alex our white wonder boy.

      Alex, Sassy, and Forrest appeared with more pizza boxes and bags.

      Are you looking at my photograph and referring to a white wonder? Alex said.

      I was, Linus said. And to clarify, I was indeed referring to you as the white wonder since all the other naked men were black.

      You missed the earlier part of the conversation when I mentioned moving the photograph upstairs, Charity said.

      Something in regard to worrying about what the neighbors might say, Rory said.

      Don’t be silly, Linus said. Charity doesn’t care about what other people think. We don’t put on airs.

      Thank you, Linus, Charity said. I’m just thinking that since Chip is living here now, he’ll probably have friends coming over to play. And he might not want to explain why his Daddy Alex’s naked picture is on the wall.

      It does make sense, Shannon said. As adults we can handle all this sort of stuff, but kids don’t need any added pressure like that in their life. No matter how sexy Alex looks in the photograph.

      Everyone chuckled. Sassy was looking at the photograph more closely.

      It really is a good photograph, Alex, Sassy said. The whole composition is very artistic as is the play of dark and light. No one would ever confuse it with porn. Although, as a mere guest in your humble abode I do tend to agree with Charity—it’s not the sort of thing you’d want displayed where children who don’t understand what they’re looking at might see it. And I’m not talking about our genius child Chip.

      The upstairs family room will be a perfect place to hang it, Sassy said. If everyone agrees.

      I agree, I said, that way we can all see and appreciate the work of art.

      Rory and Shannon got plates and glasses from the kitchen as well as ice for the sodas Charity had picked up. We opened the bags that contained garlic bread with melted cheese on top.

      We’ve got to take inventory of the kitchen then make a list of what we need from the grocery store, Charity said.

      I can help you with that, Shannon said. We’ll need to go through the pantry as well.

      When we were finally sitting around the table, our conversation turned to things like who would drop Chip off at school, what we all had planned for tomorrow, and the rest of the week.

      Mommy Charity, can you please pass me a piece of cheese pizza? Chip said

      Sure, sweetie, Charity said. She gave Chip a piece of pizza while she continued to speak. Chip, your daddies talked earlier and they thought it would be a good idea for you to just call me Mommy. Your younger siblings will just call me Mommy too."

      Chip smiled then jumped up, walked to Charity, and hugged her. She hugged him back.

      You sure look happy to have a mother now, Rory said.

      I am, Chip said. And I’m happy to be having three sisters too, and a brother one day.

      How do you know it won’t be three boys and one girl? Rory said.

      ‘Cause I had a dream and there were three little sisters in it and a brother with yellow hair, Chip said.

      I forgot about how you know these things sometimes, Rory said. Did you see any cousins in that dream of yours?

      Be good, Rory, Forrest said.

      OK, but at least I didn’t ask if his cousins had beautiful dark skin and curly hair, Rory said.

      Shannon laughed then spoke.

      Oh, Rory you are too much. She laughed again and the rest of us joined in.

      After dinner the grown-ups retired to the back sunroom, while Forrest and Charity helped Chip get ready for bed upstairs.

      So, Leticia and The Organization must think it’s finally time to deal with Sandoval, Sassy said.

      They definitely seem to be trying to get us prepared for something, Alex said.

      But what it is, who knows? Shannon said.

      Actually I think Linus may know something, Rory said.

      Chapter 5

      What Linus Knows

      CARE TO SHARE what you know with the rest of us, Linus? I said.

      I would if I knew what the heck Rory’s talking about, Linus said.

      That whole screwed up energy thing that you mentioned you felt when doing yoga the other day, Rory said.

      Oh yeah, that, Linus said. But do you think that’s connected with this Sandoval guy?

      You’re the spiritual and energy world expert in our group, Rory said.

      I learned a lot of stuff from Charity’s parents, Linus said.

      What is it you felt exactly? Sassy said.

      It’s sort of hard to explain, Linus said. Usually when doing yoga I get to a place where I reach a balance between my physical and spiritual self. A stress-free zone, you might say.

      What was different the last time? Alex said.

      This may sound crazy, but it felt like someone raised their hand, just shook up the natural energy, and caused a momentary upheaval or flux, Rory said.

      Linus, I’m thinking that what you just described is exactly what happened at Shiloh key, I said.

      I agree with Layton, Shannon said. And it’s not unusual for a spiritually tuned in person like yourself to feel what was happening in the supernatural realm.

      Wow, Linus, you really are the Merlin of our group, I said.

      Layton, are you going to be working for The Organization full time now, or continuing on as a private detective? Linus said.

      He can always retire and play lord of the manor, Sassy said.

      As tempting as that might be, I said. It would probably be too boring after dealing with ghosts.

      Don’t expect a house with triplets to be boring or quiet, Rory said. You can’t even imagine how many diapers they can go through. I remember helping bro change Chip’s diapers—who knew one baby could go through so many of those things?

      He’s not kidding about all those diapers, Forrest said from the doorway. Chip’s asking for his daddies.

      Is he OK? I said. We all gave him good night kisses and hugs already.

      It’s bedtime story time for Chip, Forrest said.

      I should probably be going anyway, Shannon said.

      Stay and relax a while, Alex said.

      The Daddies, including Linus, Alex, and myself, went upstairs to read Chip a story. When we got back downstairs, everyone was where we left them, but had been joined by Charity.

      Sassy’s going to stay and help me with stuff around the house while you guys are in Louisiana, Charity said.

      That’s great, I said.

      What are you up to, young lady? Linus said to Charity, then smiled.

      Never you mind, Charity said. Don’t worry, I won’t be doing any heavy lifting, cleaning, or anything like that—I promise.

      Remember, Linus, I’ll be here to keep an eye on things, Rory said.

      We engaged in some small talk before everyone went to bed. At the insistence of Alex and me, Forrest had brought a clean uniform and some clothes over from his previous home. The three of us were in bed when Forrest spoke.

      I need to see about renting out my old home. At first I thought one of you two might want to use it as an office, but I thought better of that idea.

      Why? I said.

      There’s plenty of room here at the court for each of us to carve out a space to work in, Forrest said. And that keeps us closer together. So, let’s say I decide to pop by on my lunch break to visit—I like the idea of both my guys being around.

      Hmm, Alex said. Is that why you’re in the middle tonight?"

      Could be, Forrest said.

      Could be? I said. Alex, I think our man is hinting around about something… but I wonder what.

      Should we try and figure that one out, Alex said, then grinned.

      THE NEXT MORNING after breakfast everyone went their separate ways. Rory was taking Chip to school and Charity had enlisted both Sassy and Shannon to help in her secret project. I was dressed in shorts, a tank top, and sneakers. While I waited for Linus to come back downstairs I kept Alex company in my office.

      Thanks for letting me use your desk and office while you’re gone, Alex said.

      This is a big office, I said. There’s plenty of room for an extra desk if you want to move in. I will warn you, though, you’d be required to work naked.

      That’d be something to see, Linus said, happily walking into the room. Although, I don’t see how either of you would get any work done.

      We all chuckled then I spoke.

      You do have a point there, Linus, I said. And we did say we’d keep this area of the house a clothed zone.

      That’s why they make doors with locks, Alex said.

      Are you already trying to find ways around the rules? I said.

      What’s a little rule breaking amongst friends? Linus said. I don’t think anyone would complain about a naked Alex, anyway. Or a naked Layton for that matter.

      I’d include a naked Linus and Forrest in that, Alex said.

      There are a lot of people who’d like to incorporate a naked Layton and Forrest into their lives, Linus said. Ready to hit the road, Layton?

      Lead on, I said, then turned to Alex and kissed him. Bye, babe."

      We started heading out when Alex spoke.

      Linus, don’t think you can leave without giving me a kiss goodbye, Alex said.

      Before doing anything, Linus looked my way.

      Alex can be bossy sometimes, I said, so you might as well give him a kiss, and it better be good or he’ll make you do it again.

      You two are so cute, Linus said, then gave Alex a quick kiss on the lips before turning to me and doing the same. You’re both sweet and really I thought a Marine would be much tougher. But your lips were soft.

      Alex and I looked at one another and laughed.

      Was it stupid that I just wanted to break the ice? Alex said.

      I responded by hugging him and kissing the side of his neck.

      You’re just downright adorable, Alex, Linus said. And don’t worry about things, they’ll be cool—we’ll all be fine living together."

      You sound so sure of that, Alex said.

      That’s because I am, Linus said. I know a little of what went down with your family, Alex, so I know you’re not in a great place right now. But you can trust me, I’m not one to put up a front or façade. Some folks think I’m kooky, or a bit of a horn dog but—

      It sounds like you’ll fit right in with the rest of us, I said, then smiled.

      Layton, we’d better head out if you’re ready, Linus said.

      Ready, I said. ‘Be good, Alex."

      Always, Alex said.

      Linus and I left the house and got into his SUV nicknamed The Beast that was right outside. It was about a twenty-five minute drive to the artist’s co-op where we picked up two stained glass pieces that Linus had done then got back in The Beast.

      This is kind of far for you to drive to work, Linus, I said.

      Thanks for worrying about me, big guy, Linus said, then patted my knee.

      Surely, we can find you some space at the court or on the grounds, I said. I thought I spotted a barn all the way in back of the property that you might be able to use.

      I could definitely use the space the barn would provide, but there’s one problem. It’s part of the property that backs up to the court. We don’t own it.

      ‘Well, maybe we can build you something, I said. There’s plenty of space."

      That is an idea, Linus said.

      When we got back home to the court after making the deliveries, Linus parked, and we walked to the front of the house where we spotted Chip on the front porch steps. He was barefoot and casually dressed in shorts and a T-shirt.

      Hi, what are you doing out here, buddy? I said to Chip.

      Hi, Daddies, Chip said. Daddy Alex said that if I waited out here and asked nicely, you might take me to get ice cream.

      I think I can handle that, I said. Does anyone else want any?

      They said no, Chip said.

      Linus handed me the keys to The Beast then spoke.

      Take The Beast, Linus said. I’ve got a few calls to make or I’d go with you.

      Thanks, I said. Can we bring you back anything?

      Actually a chocolate malt would be good, Linus said.

      We can do that right, Chip? I said.

      Right, Chip said, then jumped up.

      Tell Daddy Linus bye, I said.

      Bye, Daddy Linus, Chip said, then grabbed my hand and pulled me forward.

      Chip and I walked hand in hand to The Beast and I helped him get in the passenger seat.

      When I put the key in the ignition and started The Beast, Chip giggled.

      What’s so funny? I said.

      You’re wearing s…neakers, Chip said.

      That is kind of funny, isn’t it? I said. Especially since I never wear shoes. But you can’t drive barefoot."

      Why not? Chip said.

      It’s just a rule, I said and backed out of the driveway. So what kind of ice cream do you want?

      V’nilla with sprinkles, Chip said.

      Sprinkles I said. Wow. Do you want whipped cream, too?

      Yeah!

      Chocolate sauce too?

      No, Chip said and laughed.

      I looked in my rearview mirror and spotted a gray van with no markings on the outside.

      What’s wrong, Daddy? Chip said.

      It’s probably nothing, I said. That van behind us just looks funny to me, that’s all.

      Yeah, Chip said.

      Why did you say ‘yeah’, I said.

      I dunno know, Chip said and shrugged his little shoulders.

      When I got to the end of our street I turned left onto the main road. It made me glad to see the van go straight across rather than follow us. Less than a minute later my phone rang.

      It’s probably someone at home who decided they want ice cream after all, I said.

      Pro-lly, Chip said.

      I answered the call without even looking at the number or name.

      Layton, here, I said before an unfamiliar voice spoke over the phone.

      You and your little boy better hang on, Detective, it’s fixing to be a bumpy ride.

      Chapter 6

      Danger Ahead

      CHIP, ARE YOU buckled in tight? I said.

      Yes, Daddy, Chip said. Are we in trouble?

      I don’t know, buddy, I said and ran my hand through his brown hair. We might be, but don’t be scared.

      I won’t.

      There was nowhere for me to turn around and go back home to the court, so I continued onward. Suddenly the van from earlier rushed out ahead of us from a side street. Luckily there were no cars in the lane next to us so I managed to swerve around him, but he was soon on our tail.

      That was close, Chip said.

      Too much so, I said.

      There was a place to turn coming up, but there was an SUV there, still I headed toward it.

      Daddy, that van is still behind us, Chip said.

      I know, buddy. Do me a favor and get your Daddy Forrest on the phone for me. Tell him when need help. I handed chip my phone just as we were bumped from behind by the van.

      We were almost to the turn so I stepped hard on the gas.

      Daddy, Daddy, help! Chip said into the phone as I swerved to keep us from getting hit by the van again.

      Where are you? Forrest said loud enough for me to hear him through the phone. I yelled out our position so he’d hear then began to go into the turning lane.

      The SUV in the turning lane quickly moved to block us. I tried to go around into the grassy area but a bus was coming up in the street.

      We’re in trouble, Forrest! I said so he’d hear me on the phone. "Need assistance now!"

      Already on the way, Forrest said. Hang on!

      I continued driving in the grassy area and spotted two more buses one in each street lane to either side of us, blocking The Beast. Behind us the van got closer and I spotted someone leaning out the passenger window. He had a gun and there was nowhere for me to go. Then I heard a sharp, whizzing sound in the air.

      Duck down and cover your head, Chip!

      He did so right before a metal cannister crashed through our back window filling The Beast with smoke. I felt myself growing weak and realized the only choice I had was to stop the vehicle to keep from crashing, so I did so. Thankfully I’d managed to stop and put the emergency brake on before blacking out.

      DADDY! DADDY! WAKE up, Daddy.

      The voice… it was familiar to me. I opened my eyes quickly and tried to get adjusted to the light. Hopefully Forrest had gotten to us but as I woke up to my surroundings I doubted that was the case. My body felt a cold, wet, surface beneath me—mud. Shaking my head to wake up fully, I looked around.

      You okay, Chip?

      Yes, Chip said.

      He was naked except for a pair of white briefs. I looked down at myself and saw that he and I matched. Our clothes were gone—even my sneakers. We were in a small room or cell was more like it. The floor was thick, wet mud, there were metal bars to our left and right and a block wall directly behind us.

      Where are we, Daddy? Chip said.

      I have no idea, I said, then stared straight ahead. There was no wall just an opening looking out over a dark space. Almost instinctively I pulled Chip close to me then placed him so his back was against the block wall.

      Stay put right there, kiddo, I said, then stood.

      The mud didn’t go very deep, there was solid dirt less than an inch from the top. And it wasn’t as slick as I thought it would be. I could walk toward the edge of the room without sliding around. Looking downward from the edge, I could see nothing but darkness. But glancing upward I spotted thick hanging vines and an opening that allowed light to come into the space.

      Hello! I said. Anyone else in here!

      Several male voices replied to my call.

      Does anyone know where we are? I said.

      In Hell, one man said.

      We’re in a sinkhole somewhere, another man said, but your guess where is as good as mine.

      Thanks, buddy, I said.

      Don’t lean out too far, another man said. You’ll get a shock. There’s some sort of electrical field around these cells.

      Thanks for the heads up, I said.

      I walked back to where Chip was, picked him up and sat down with him in my lap. Chip wrapped his skinny arms around my neck and hugged me.

      I’ll be brave, Daddy, Chip said.

      Of course you will, you’re the son of a Marine, I said.

      You were a Marine, Daddy.

      Y’up.

      Why are we in here? Chip said.

      I don’t know, buddy.

      It’s really wet and muddy, Chip said.

      I looked in his big… eyes and could see he was nervous but trying to be strong.

      You know what, Chip, when I was a kid I used to love to play in the mud.

      What did you do? Chip said.

      We made mud pies.

      Ewww, Chip said. You didn’t eat them, did you?

      No way, I said, then chuckled. We weren’t crazy.

      I have to piddle, Daddy, Chip said, then got upset. There’s no bathroom.

      Hit the back wall! someone from above said. The toilet’s on a timer!

      After standing with Chip in my arms, I felt along the back wall until an invisible door opened. A tiny space containing only a toilet was revealed and I went inside with Chip. There was a timer on the wall that had one button for pee and another for poop. Once I pushed the pee button five minutes appeared on the timer. I put Chip on the floor in front of the toilet and pushed him forward.

      Go ahead and pee, buddy. Sorry about the lack of privacy, but I’m not leaving you alone here if I can help it.

      It’s OK, Daddy. I would be scared by myself.

      We both peed and washed our hands then I felt along the walls of the small, closet-like room. There were no more hidden doors. The ceiling looked solid too, so we exited the bathroom.

      What do we do now? Chip said.

      I smiled and made a funny face at Chip. We make mud pies—fun!

      Chip giggled then spoke.

      You’re silly, Chip said.

      Have fun while you can, a man from above them said. They’ll separate you two soon enough and then neither of you will be laughing.

      Chip wrapped his arms around my leg and held it tightly.

      Don’t scare them, a man who’d spoken earlier said.

      You can’t tell me what to say, you bastard! the first man said.

      It won’t matter what anyone says, a newcomer to the conversation said. They’ll be separated alright. Then they’ll know the true meaning of the word torture.

      Chapter 7

      Prep and Plan

      WHAT DO WE do, Daddy? Chip said, then wiped his eyes.

      Anyone would have to go through me to get you, I said.

      But what if they do take me away?

      Then you hang tough, because I promise you one thing—I will find you. If things get bad—really bad, then we need a password too, so I’ll know.

      OK, Chip said.

      I crouched down then whispered in Chip’s ear.

      "Shout Papa if things get too bad for you, but only if you’re in real trouble."

      OK, Chip said.

      You are doing so great, Pal, I said. I’m so proud of you.

      I have mud in my undies, Chip said.

      I’ll tell you a secret, I said. I’ve got mud in my undies too. We’re not gonna be able to avoid it so let’s make mud pies.

      Chip giggled then we sat in a corner against the block wall and made mud pies. We’d been at it for a while when I heard shouting.

      Rainfall coming! Someone shouted.

      Looking toward the open space in front of us I could see faint droplets of rain. It grew harder, but I figured we’d be fine against the wall. The rain wouldn’t come all the

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