Marie came back with the coffee and poured out three cups. She‟d made it much stronger than we would normally have it as Americans seemed to like it strong. Tad told me that he‟d retired from the navy a few years back after serving over thirty years “Man and Boy” as he put it. We reminisced over our different lifestyles in the service and I had to admit his was more colourful than mine. Eventually Tad got up to leave and we shook hands once again. This time he took Marie‟s hand and kissed the back of it. Once again Marie blushed and kissed his cheek. “Nice to have met you Tad,” she said “I‟m sure Voyager will be safe in your hands.” Tad gave us a final wave as he stepped ashore and we returned to the saloon. “I like him” said Marie “Such a gentleman.” “Well he would be a gentleman; he‟s a sailor, like me.” Marie hurled a cushion at me but she had a big grin on her face as I caught it and threw it back. Later, as we lay in bed I pondered on Steve‟s revelation and how to resolve the problem of the gems. Should I leave them where they were, take them with us or what? A germ of an idea began to form in my mind before I drifted off to sleep, my arm around Marie my hand cupping a breast. After breakfast I told Marie that I was going into town to the local branch of our own bank to make sure all was well with our funds and to withdraw some for our journey. It‟d also give me a bit more confidence in my driving skills before we set off. “It‟ll give me time to tidy up before we leave too.” she replied. “Just be careful please darling.” “I will, don‟t worry, I‟ll be back before you know it.” I said. Before leaving I went down into the engine room and retrieved the jewels from the packing case, stuffed them into my pockets and made my way onto the jetty. I climbed into our „battlewagon‟ as I‟d dubbed it and set off for the business section of the city using directions supplied by the ever helpful Chief Warren. I found the bank without too much trouble. Going in I asked if it was possible to see the manager. The Teller looked a bit doubtful. I gave her my name and a card from my own bank which she took and disappeared into an office at the rear of the area. Within minutes the manager appeared and came toward me, hand outstretched and a smi le as we shook hands. “If you would care to step into my office sir” he said, waving a hand in the general direction of it. Once inside he asked “Now what can I do for you sir. It‟s a pleasure to meet someone from the old country.” His accent, although americanised, was pure Home Counties. “I escaped some years ago,” he chuckled “Best move I‟ve ever made. Now, what can I do to help?” I asked if it was possible to rent a couple of safety deposit boxes for about a month. I also asked if it would be possible to open a new account that could be paid into but remain anonymous. “No problem.” he said. Picking up his phone he spoke for a minute or two then replaced the handset “Right sir, if you‟d follow me again we‟ll fix you up with a couple of safety deposit boxes immediately.” I asked if they kept Courier bags on the premises, he said they did. Two appeared as if by magic. The manager left me alone in the vault. I divided the gems as equally as possible between the two bags and placed them in the strongboxes. Within half an hour I ‟d left the bank with some cash, keys to the deposit boxes and, much to my relief, my pockets empty of gems. I‟d left certain instructions with the obliging manager. I‟d also been able to use his phone to call Steve. I told him to get in touch with Grimm who was to deposit the sum of £10,000 into a bank account - The account I‟d just opened - within seven days. Half the gems would be delivered by Courier under the guise of „Mineral Samples‟ to any address of his choosing. Also he was to leave Steve alone as of now, my warning being that any untoward action by him or his goons would result in the police and Customs being made aware of his nefarious dealings and, more importantly, I would retain the other half of the gems. I told Steve I would call him again in two days. He was to tell Grimm the gems were no longer aboard the Voyager but in a place where he would be unable to get at them. If any attempt was made to recover them by threatening me or my wife he would never see them again. There was to be no negotiation. A small thrill of fear went through me as I drove back to the dock.” I hope to god I‟ve got all the bases covered.” I mused. “He doesn‟t know where we are so he shouldn‟t be able to get too us. The map they‟d looked at would tell them nothing. I didn‟t think even his contacts would be able to check every port on the eastern seaboard. Tad was being shown around Voyager by Marie when I arrived. I sounded the horn, climbed down from the cab and made my way onboard. “You‟ve been a long time.” she said. “Sorry dear I got a bit lost.” I answered. I didn‟t want her worrying about my plan. I hated lying to her but in this case I thought it was justified. If all went well she need never know of how dangerous a man we were dealing with. “So, Tad, I guess Marie has covered everything you need to know so just make yourself at home. If there‟s anything else you need to know or want just fire away.” “I think the lovely lady has put me in the picture” he said. “You just get going on your trip while you‟ve still got a decent amount of daylight left.” We loaded up the Station Wagon with the remaining bits and bobs and climbed aboard. I started up, gave Tad a wave, Marie blew him a kiss which made his day judging by the almost visible blush on his nut-brown cheeks and we drove off on our new adventure. Chapter 20 The glaring sunlight reflecting off the concrete highway made us squint, even through sunglasses. I would have hated to be out in the open in this heat and breathed a silent „thank you‟ for the air-conditioning. We filled up with gas on the edge of the city and then headed northwest on I-45 toward Fort Worth. We arrived there as the sun was setting and drove unti l we came to a motel and diner which looked fairly new and booked a room for the night. We parked, had a quick freshen up and headed off to the diner. It was fairly quiet inside and cool which was a blessing. We ordered steak with all the trimmings. The waitress brought us our plates piled high with food. The steaks alone just about covered the plates and were over an inch thick. We set to with a will but had to admit defeat before we‟d cleared our plates as I was full to bursting. The waitress asked if we wanted anything in the way of dessert. All I could do was shake my head and loosen my belt. We left the table leaving behind enough food to feed a fami ly of four normal Brits. I shook my head as we left the diner, saying to Marie “What a terrible waste of food, it‟ll go for pig-swill no doubt and to think half the world is starving”. Before I could say anything else a giant burp overtook me which seemed to go on for a long time. ”Pardon me” I muttered to Marie who was also suffering the after effects of overindulgence. “Think I‟ll join you” she said, and let go a most unladylike burp. “Typical Texas food, I guess everything‟s got to be bigger than elsewhere in the US.” We made our way to our cabin and once inside I undid my belt and trouser buttons. The relief was most gratifying. Even Marie undid her slacks. Looking down at herself she turned sideways to the mirror she said “So that‟s what I‟d look like pregnant.” I chuckled at the sight. “You needn‟t laugh,” she said “Look at the state of you.” I turned sideways and inspected my bloated belly. “Ye gods, look at the size of me. Better stay away from sharp instruments or I‟ll redecorate the room.” I flopped down onto the bed and Marie joined me. “We look like a couple of beached whales.” she commented. “Let‟s hope they‟re gone by morning or we‟ll never get back in the Vay-Hickle.” She said in her best Texan drawl. I stroked her bump. “Prettiest whale I‟ve ever seen” I replied. “Flatterer,” she said “You„re not so bad yourself.” I squeezed her hand and gave an enormous yawn “Sorry dear, I‟m knackered, beddy-byes I‟m thinking. We‟ve got another long drive tomorrow.” So saying I huffed and puffed myself upright removed my clothes and stepped into the tiny shower cubicle had a quick shower, dried, climbed into bed and was asleep before Marie joined me. When I woke, sunlight was streaming through the slats of the Venetian blind. Marie lay on her back snoring gently. I kissed the end of her nose, sat up, switched on the coffee maker on the bedside table and picked up the map to study our route whilst it heated up. We would pick up I-20 to the west of Fort Worth on to Abilene then swing northwest to Lubbock. It wasn‟t the quickest route but I wanted to see Abilene i f only because of the romance of the movies conjuring up pictures of cowboys and gunslingers on every corner and in every bar. I smiled to myself knowing full well that it wasn‟t going to be so but who knew; maybe they put on a show for the tourists as they did in Fort Worth at the Stockyards. Perhaps on our way back we could take in the tour, after all we weren‟t pushed for time, I just wanted to get the reason for our being here out of the way first then the world was our oyster. In the end I changed my mind and decided to take the more direct route to Lubbock via Seymour. I put the map down and turned my attention to the coffee which was ready and poured myself a cup. I settled with my back against the headboard and started to sip the hot liquid. A hand stealing across my bare belly made me almost spill my drink but I carried on trying not to react. The hand stole downwards until it reached my manhood and began to explore it with strokes as light as a feather until it started to rise. I became more excited and could feel the wetness forming at its tip. The hand also became aware of it and a gentle finger began to spread it over the end as more began to form. I began to tremble and reached to put my cup down. Marie‟s head disappeared below the sheet and I felt the brush of her lips as she kissed her way down my belly. Her wet tongue exciting me even more as she worked her way up the shaft. I reached below the covers to run my hands over her naked shoulders and back. She took me in her mouth and began to work her magic on me. I was rapidly losing control and gripped her hair as she worked her head bobbing up and down as my buttocks lifted at her urging. I exploded in exquisite relief and groaned with pleasure as she continued to pleasure me until my paroxysm subsided. She appeared from beneath the sheet red-faced with a wicked glint in her eyes. “Good morning my lover and how are we today?” she enquired. For an answer I took her head in my hands and kissed her passionately on the lips forcing my tongue into her mouth. My hands stroked her back and I drew her up until I could feel her soft round buttocks. I slid my hands between them, my fingers explored the hot moistness of her, gently massaging her and inserting a finger into the wetness to stroke her clitoris until she began to tremble. Marie became aware that I was ready for her once again and grasped my member, rubbing it against her vagina and then inserting it and rotating it to stimulate her even further. When she was ready she plunged herself on to me working herself into a frenzy of passion until with a stifled groan she shook as her orgasm overcame her and tried to force me even deeper into her as I came once again gripping her to me as if never wanting it to stop. Finally we just lay there stroking and kissing as our passion ebbed away. “Now look what you‟ve done.” I said severely. “Not hurt you have I?” she asked a worried look on her face. “Worse than that,” I said with a pained expression “My coffee‟s gone cold.” “You bugger.” she said and whacked me with her pillow. We both burst into laughter and were sti ll giggling helplessly when the phone rang. It was the front desk giving us our wake-up call. He seemed a bit put out when we went off into gales of laughter again. “Sorry mate” I explained, “ It was a private joke we were sharing.” which seemed to mollify him. We had our shower, dressed and went to the diner for a light breakfast consisting mainly of toast and coffee before getting on the road again. I explained we‟d got best part of 300 miles before we got to Lubbock. Although the road we took was not a main highway it was a blacktop in good condition. I stopped at the first gas station we came across and filled up, making sure the radiator was filled with water and the oil level ok, we‟d already filled our water containers at the motel. It wasn‟t wise to drive out into the vast countryside without water as a breakdown could not be ruled out. Marie had phoned ahead to a motel near Lubbock to book a room, telling them we were on route from Fort Worth and to expect us that evening unless we told them otherwise. It was just a precaution in case we did break down mi les from anywhere. Chapter 21 We set off once again. The road seemed as straight as a die except for undulations over the low-lying hills and we able to keep up a good speed. Some three hours later we arrived at Seymour and stopped at another gas station to take on more fuel. I commented to Marie that it was a good thing we weren‟t in the UK the way these motors drank petrol, especially with the air con switched on. After freshening up I left Marie enjoying a cup of coffee saying I was going to ring Tad to see all was ok with Voyager. I was lying to her – again - I was going to call Steve. The phone seemed to ring for an age before a slightly out of breath Steve answered. He said Grimm had agreed to my demands, albeit with bad grace, Steve said he‟d send me a delivery address as soon as he knew what it was. I said the gems would be despatched as soon as the money was in the account. I said good luck to Steve and to keep out of trouble from now on. “I will, I‟ve had enough trouble to last a lifetime.” He thanked me once again for helping him out. I told him I‟d mail him some of the money when I had chance so it would tide him over until he got settled again. He was adamant that he wanted nothing from me as he‟d got some put by „for a rainy day‟. I wished him good luck again and rang off. I then called the Bank, spoke to the manager who confirmed that a sum of money, £10,000, had been paid into the nominated account and should clear by the end of the week. “Thank you very much, I‟ ll call again.” I said and rang off. “You‟ve been a while.” said Marie when I joined her. “Lousy connection.” I said offhandedly. “Everything okay?” “Everything‟s fine.“ I said and left it at that. We hit the road again. After driving on Britain‟s road it came as a surprise to see so few cars and trucks. We could drive for an hour and pass nothing. The only signs of life were the rabbits and birds with a death wish that darted or flew across in front of us. We saw the occasional snake basking in the dust at the road edge or, which was more likely, flattened into the tarmac. How unlucky could they get considering so few vehicles travelled along it. Dust devils swirled into the air and seemed to dance across the landscape before collapsing again. It got everywhere, even into the cab, leaving our eyes feeling gritty and creating an almost continual thirst. Looking in the rear-view mirror nothing could be seen except for the pall of dust following us, sucked up as we passed over it. As the sun began to decline signs of habitation began to appear instead of the interminable roadside billboards that spread across the country like a rash. „Welcome to Lubbock‟ read the sign as we approached the city limits. We followed the directions Marie had been given by the Motel manager and found it as the sun began to set. “Good timing.” I said as we climbed stiffly down from the cab. Marie adjusted her make-up in an effort to look more presentable before we went in to collect our room key. “These motels all look the same don‟t they?” I said as we let ourselves in. “As long as it‟s got a decent shower that‟ll be fine by me.” replied Marie. It had. I picked up our overnight case, threw it on the bed and started to unpack fresh clothes for us. Marie joined me about a quarter of an hour later wearing the motel bathrobe and carrying a towel. She sat on the edge of the bed handing me the towel to finish drying her hair, she knew I just loved to do it for her. Later I would brush it for her until it was tangle free and shining like spun gold. I kissed the back of her neck when I‟d finished. She shivered and tried to duck away from me. “Get your filthy hands off me sir,” she said sternly “In other words, go wash your body.” I sighed and said “Your wish is my command princess.” got up and did as I was bidden. Later we made our way to the diner. The sound of Count ry and Western music greeted us as we entered. There was a bar area at the back of the diner and after having a meal we went into the bar and found some seats near the small stage. A trio of „Cowboys‟ with an assortment of musical instruments were entertaining the diners and drinkers. We thought they were quite good and joined in with the hand clapping and foot stomping. A very pretty young lady in a pink and white gingham dress joined them on the stage and sang her heart out to a very appreciative audience. As the beer flowed we became less inhibited and joined in with the dancing. When they found out we were from England we were bombarded with questions about „Lil ole England.‟ They seemed fascinated by our accent. There were a few old- timers who had been shipped over to the England during WWII who had fond – and probably not so fond - memories of their stay there. One said he‟d been with the Eighth Air force stationed at Lakenheath. “You were lucky to survive.” I said. He gazed into his beer mug and said almost in a whisper “I guess you could say that. A lot of guys weren‟t so lucky.” I didn‟t press him further but used the awkward silence to ask him if there was or had been an Air force base nearby. He thought for a moment and then said “Yeah, there was but they dismantled it after the war. I don‟t reckon there‟s a base within a hunnert mile now.” It was not what I wanted to hear. Seeing my expression he asked why I was interested and I explained why we were there. “Well, if it‟s any help, although the base closed down the accommodation for the married quarters is still there at Loomis, They thought the houses were too good to knock down so they sold them to the residents or anyone who showed an interest. “Purt near gave „em away.” He told me Loomis was about 20 miles north. You caint miss it on account of the big sign telling folk the airbase is there, somehow it got fergotten when they-all up and left. We talked of other things, putting the world to rights, just small talk; I thanked him for his help and wished him well. As it was getting late we made our excuses and wobbled our way to our room. It wasn‟t long before we were asleep. Chapter 22 We left the Motel in the late morning still nursing the remains of hangovers from our over-indulgence the previous evening. I winced as an overtaking truck blasted past sounding its horn. “Oh!” I groaned “please tell me that won‟t happen again?” “Serves you right you daft beggar for drinking all that beer” said an unsympathetic Marie. “How come it doesn‟t affect you then?” I moaned. “It‟s all in the genes” she replied trying to sound superior. The effect was spoiled when a wheel hit a rut and bounced her into the air. “Oww! She moaned “You did that on purpose.” “With my head?” I enquired “I don‟t think so.” She hunted in her handbag and came up with some aspirin. She gave me a couple and swallowed a couple herself, washing them down with a bottle of Coke. “Genes playing up dear?” I enquired guilelessly. “Keep your eyes on the road smarty pants or you‟ll have a thick ear to go with your headache.” “Such a sweetie.” I said but couldn‟t resist a chuckle. We had been driving for half an hour or so when we passed a weather-beaten sign welcoming us to “Loomis Air Force Base Home of Th…. The rest was missing, looking as though someone had taken a shotgun too it. The houses were laid out in military fashion nearly all of them single storey except where the owner had become ambitious and added an extra room or two. For the most part they were well kept with frontages similar to that seen on the photo we had of the family outside the house. We drove slowly along searching for any sign of a community centre or Sheriff‟s Office but found nothing but row on row of samey houses and strangely we saw not one person outside. So intent was our search that we fai led to notice the police car until it drove up behind us giving a Whoop-Whoop! of his siren. I nearly had a heart attack by its unexpectedness. Looking in the mirror I could see him pointing to the side of the road. We pulled over and waited for him to get out of the cruiser and walk toward my driver‟s door. He approached slowly, his hand on the butt of his pistol. Nervously I wound down the window, letting in a blast of hot air. “Good afternoon officer.” I said innocently. Unsmiling he asked to see some ID and the pink slip. I scrabbled about in the glove box and retrieved the pink slip and my passport. As I handed them to him I couldn‟t help noticing that he‟d unbuttoned the strap holding down his pistol. My nervousness was reaching fever pitch and I jumped as he suddenly looked up and said. “I ‟ve had a report of suspicious lookin‟ strangers drivin‟ round the town. I guess that would that have been you sir.” I breathed a sigh of relief and answered. “Probably officer, we were driving around looking for someone to ask about a family who live or lived here back in the „40s.” “Now why would that be then son?” he asked. I told him our story and showed him the old photo from the dead pilot‟s wallet. He studied at it for a while then handed it back. “Just set there awhile and I‟ ll call on someone who might be able to help you. I‟ve only been around here for the last six months and, even allowing for their age, I don‟t recognise the lady or the little „un.” He walked back to the cruiser and we could see him talking on the radio. After about five minutes he returned and I could see by his face that he was unhappy. He told us to follow him, got in his car and led the way, pulling up eventually outside the Sheriff‟s office. “Come on in and have a cup of coffee while we wait for Jonas to arrive he‟ll maybe able to help you good folk.” Once again he gave us a sad smile and went off to get the coffee. “What do you make of that then?” I said, more to myself than Marie. I felt a thrill of anticipation as we waited for „Jonas‟ to arrive. We‟d waited so long to meet the lady and daughter of the photo. What would they look like now? I wondered. The daughter would be all grown up and probably as pretty as a picture. I jumped as the screen-door slammed shut behind the man who came in and went to the desk after giving us a glance. He spoke to the Sheriff who beckoned us over. “This is Jonas Gooding.” he said. We introduced ourselves and shook hands. The Sheriff said “Use the back room Jonas, it‟s a bit more private.” Jonas led the way and we took a seat. “Now then” he said “What‟s your interest in the Edwards family?” We told him our story during which he nodded now and again. We showed him the photo of the happy scene. He inspected it closely for some time then lifted his head. To my surprise there was the hint of tears in his eyes. “You know them?” I asked softly. “I knew them” he replied. I noticed the use of the past tense in his answer. “I guess they‟ve moved away have they?” I said “Do you know where they are?” “Yes” he replied sadly “I know where they are?” I felt a sudden chill and Goosebumps appeared on my arms. “You are related?” I asked. He got up and stood looking at us for a moment then said, “That your Station Wagon out front?” I nodded and he said “OK follow me, there‟s something you should see.” We went back out into the heat of the sun. He climbed into a beat-up pickup truck and drove off in a cloud of dust. We followed him, glad to have the benefit of the air conditioning. He drove until the houses started to thin out and finally stopped at what looked like a hall, white, with a cross on top of the eaves. My sense of foreboding became stronger as we climbed down from the Station Wagon and joined Jonas at the gate. He led us around the side of the building until it opened out onto what seemed like a well tended lawn. It became all to obvious that it was a cemetery. Marie and I walked hand in hand behind him between the rows of flower strewn graves and monuments until Jonas finally stopped at one well tended plot. He knelt down and removed a few dead flowers and brushed the loose petals away from the headstone. We read the inscription and I heard Marie give a little gulp and grip my hand even tighter. Our search had ended. We climbed back into our vehicles and, with Jonas in the lead headed back toward the Sheriff‟s office. To our surprise Jonas turned off before we got there indicating for us to follow him through the dusty streets until he pulled up outside a neat little house reminiscent of the one in the photo. Jonas got out of his pickup, came over to us and said “Why don‟t you come on in and set for a while? I‟m sure you could do with a drink of something cool to wash away the dust.” We followed him into the house and were led into an old-fashioned chintzy looking room complete with polished oak furniture and sideboard. We sat self- consciously and waited for him to return with a large carafe of fresh orange juice in which floated a generous amount of ice. We greedily drank his offering and were told to help ourselves to more when we were ready. He sat down opposite us in an old rocking chair and seemed to be studying us from beneath his bushy eyebrows. “I guess you‟re entitled to an explanation after coming all this way so here goes. John‟s wife Jenny never got over his disappearance and presumed death and refused to believe he was gone in the hope that he‟d be found alive. Even when the war ended she remained true to his memory. Although she had many suitors - she was a beautiful woman - she refused them all and turned all her attention to raising their daughter, young Jenny a lively youngster who was turning into a mirror image of her mother. Once again tragedy was to strike when young Jenny contracted Meningitis and died before they could get her to hospital. She was just 10 years old. As you can imagine, this was the last straw for Jenny and she became a virtual recluse and was hardly ever seen in public. Last year, the day after she received confirmation that Johnny was dead, she took her own life with an overdose of sleeping tablets. It was me that found her. She was in bed and was holding a framed copy of the photo that you showed me and a little teddy bear similar to the one you described that Johnny had given to his daughter before he shipped out to the Pacific. She looked so peaceful and had a smile on her face which I hadn‟t seen for many a year.” Chapter 23 As Jonas finished there was a silence that seemed to hang in the air. We were all on the edge of tears in fact Marie had allowed one to roll down her cheek. I squeezed her hand and gently brushed it away. I could see that Jonas was also near to breaking up and went across to put my arm across his shoulder. “You were her father?” I asked quietly. He nodded. “I‟m so sorry we have caused you so much pain. We had no idea what had happened. It was all taken over by the navy after we reported our find and we‟ve heard nothing until today.” Jonas rose from the rocker, standing between Marie and me. As we stood up he put his arms around us both and hugged us as if he would never let go. “Son.” he said “Ma‟am,” looking at us in turn. “You‟ve not brought back the pain I‟m only too pleased to meet the couple who were able to lay our boy to rest. I can‟t thank you enough even though it meant that our lovely daughter was to leave us. She‟s with her family now if you believe in such things and all her suffering‟s at an end.” He gave us a final hug and made his way to the sideboard. He returned carrying a well thumbed photo album, pulled up a chair, opened the album and talked us through the photos. We could hear the pride, tinged with sorrow, in his voice as he turned the pages. Later, as the sun was starting to get low in the western sky he asked us where we were headed. I told him we would be making our way back to Galveston. He looked at his watch and said “You in a hurry to get back?” “Not really. We‟ve got all the time in the world.” I replied. He then invited us to stay the night. “I don‟t see to many folks these days since my Laura passed away five years ago and it‟d be an honour to give you good folks a bed for the night if only as a thank-you for taking the trouble to come here. I‟ve got the guest room already made up as I have a lady that comes in to clean for me. I looked at Marie who nodded faintly and told him we‟d be glad to keep him company. He led us to the guest room which was to the rear of the building. The room itself led onto its own veranda giving a view of the seemingly endless plain beyond which was dotted with longhorn cattle. The room was light and airy and kept cool by the air-conditioning humming away in the background which made a change from the last room we‟d stayed in where it clattered and buzzed all night long. I carried a few things in from the Station Wagon. Marie offered to cook a meal for us all. Jonas wouldn‟t hear of it saying, “You folks are in for some real home cooking, I‟ve not had anyone to practice on for a while so it‟ll be my pleasure, in the meantime help yourselves to a beer or whatever you fancy from the fridge.” So saying he disappeared and was soon banging pots and pans about in the kitchen. I got two beers from the fridge and we sat and sipped away at them watching the sun disappear below the horizon. The cattle were starting to gather together and lie down as the sky darkened. A few stars appeared, shimmering in the residual heat haze. There were few sounds of traffic as we were too far off the main highway, just the odd pick-up or car heading we knew not where. The cicadas more than made up for it with their incessant buzzing. It was difficult to appreciate the size of this vast sprawling state and how far it was between towns after what we had been used to in England. The smell of cooking was making our mouths water so when Jonas called us to come through to the dining room we wasted no time in obeying the call. The meal was an absolute delight and as I leaned back I was unable to stifle a burp of satisfaction. I apologised to our host but he would have none of it. We commended him on his cooking and Marie gave him a hug and a kiss which made him blush. It certainly made him speechless for a few moments then he said “Well thankee both for that. If I‟d knowed I was gonna be kissed by a beautiful lady jest for cookin‟ a meal I shoulda done it more often.” He chuckled then, standing up, said “let‟s take our drinks and go sit on the porch” We followed him on to the veranda and sat down in some wickerwork armchairs. Jonas sat in a rocker which seemed to be his favourite and lit a pipe. Waving away the cloud of smoke he asked if it bothered us. It did bother me but I could hardly deny our host his obvious pleasure. We sat and listened whilst Jonas told us of his life and times. It was an interesting life he‟d led from being a cowboy, mailman and deputy sheriff he‟d even been part of a troupe of stunt pilots that went from town to town entertaining the folk. “Mind you,” he grinned “I was only the gofer and handyman.” When the war started he worked on the airfield - being too old to join up - that was built quite close to where we were sitting. “That‟s how Jenny met Johnny when I bought him home for dinner one night „cos I thought he was homesick. The rest is history.” He sighed and there was a gap in the conversation for a few moments as he remembered the times, then… “At least they had a happy couple of years and made us immensely proud of them especially when young Jenny came along. Just a terrible shame it all ended as it did.” I stifled a yawn, was immediately embarrassed and apologised. Jonas waved it away. “It‟s been a long day” I explained “and your delicious dinner has filled me up to bursting. “It‟s getting late anyways and I‟m ready for my bed” said Jonas “Just give a call if there‟s anything you need otherwise I‟ll see you in the morning.” He left the room and I turned to Marie just in time to see her give the most enormous yawn. “I‟ve been holding that in for a while now.” she said. “Come on then baby let‟s hit the sack.” I helped her up and we went to our bedroom. We got undressed. I put on my pyjama bottoms and Marie a sheer nightie. I put the light out and went out on to the veranda. Marie followed me and we stood in the darkness looking out over the plains. Under a sky full of stars the cattle were black shapes against the dark grey background, the slightest of breezes pressed Marie‟s nightie against her body. She shivered. “Are you cold baby?” I asked. “No,” she replied. “I was just wondering why there should be such sorrow played out under this beautiful sky.” I nodded and put my arm around her, drew her in and kissed the side of her head. She turned her face to me and we kissed long and deeply. I picked her up and carried her to the bed. We made slow and gentle love and I was not surprised to feel wet tears from Marie against my cheek. “I love you so much” I whispered “and always will.” “Promise me you‟ll never go away from me?” she said “As if I would,” I replied, cuddling her close “You‟re my whole life I‟ ll never leave you.” We awoke to the mouth-watering aroma of frying bacon. After showering we made our way to the dining room where Jonas was laying out a feast of eggs, bacon and tomatoes. “Morning young lovers, I trust you slept well” He greeted us. “We certainly did” We chorused, and indeed we had. It must‟ve been the fresh clean air. “Come, sit yourselves down and tuck in afore it gets cold.” We sat and started to eat. Jonas got a cup of coffee from the ever ready percolator and joined us. “You‟re not having anything?” I queried “Bless you my boy I ate an hour since after I got back from checking no pesky varmints had got among the chickens in the night” “You must have been up early.” I said “Nope, not for me, never could stay abed once the sun was up. Habit of a lifetime I guess.” He replied. “What time you folks leaving?” “Right after breakfast, got a long way to go and I feel the pull of sea. All this land is too much to take in.” I joked. We finished our meal and helped with the dishes even though Jonas tried to stop us. “You‟ve been most kind with your hospitality” I told him “Just a shame it was under such sad circumstances.” We loaded up the Station Wagon and bade goodbye to Jonas with a handshake and a heartfelt hug. As we pulled away I observed him in the rear view mirror sitting on the porch in his rocker and somehow he seemed to have shrunk into himself. He lifted a hand in a final gesture to us then let it drop as if it suddenly weighed a ton and started to rock. He disappeared from view as we turned the corner onto the main road heading back the way we had come. We didn‟t speak but Marie put her hand on my knee and squeezed. I placed my hand on hers and gently stroked and squeezed it in reply before concentrating on the driving. We stopped off at the Sheriff‟s office and thanked him for his help. He wished us a safe trip and waved us on our way. Chapter 24 We made good time, arriving in Abilene at around 1pm. We found the Tourist Center and enquired about „Frontier Texas‟. I wanted to see the exhibition of the old frontier displays. The pretty young lady on Enquiries was most helpful. Marie thought she was too helpful and prodded me in the back. “Come along honey or we‟ll miss the show, I‟m sure this young lady has enough to do, don‟t you dear.” Marie ushered me out the door but not before I looked back and gave the young lady a wink which seemed to fluster her a bit. Marie was not impressed. “You men,” she chided “Think your god‟s gift don‟t you?” “Well you certainly thought so darling, and how long have I been „honey‟?” I asked. I ducked as she tried to give me a playful clip round the ear. We booked into a hotel, leaving the Station Wagon in the underground park, called a taxi and asked to be taken to the „Frontier Texas‟ exhibition. We found the exhibition was a bit like Disneyland but with a western flavour. The exhibits were fascinating and we watched a „gun-fight‟ outside a very real looking bar on a typical old west street. One „gunman‟ was shot on the roof and rolled off the edge to crash onto conveniently placed straw bales below. We applauded the ski ll of the cowboys as they wrestled steers to the ground ready for branding, both on foot and from horseback. There was the inevitable „Alamo‟ tableau complete with Adobe walls and a massive gateway. We found a restaurant with „real‟ cowboy food served by pretty „Cowgirls‟ in skimpy uniforms which earned me another dig in the ribs. Once again we found ourselves trying to surround an enormous meal and failing miserably. I got up and told Marie I was going to the washroom, which I did, not to wash my hands but to make a call to the bank. The money was safely in the account, the bankers draft had cleared. I thanked him and said I‟d call in a couple of day‟s time. I made a second call which was answered by a weary sounding Steve. I told him the gems would be sent by courier within the next few days. He sounded relieved “Grimm is coming down tomorrow with the delivery address so he‟ll be pleased to hear the news.” “Good”, I said. When you‟ve got the delivery address, call this number. I gave him the bank‟s phone number. Ringing off I went to the washroom and washed my hands which suddenly felt unclean. Returning to Marie I said “These washrooms are like palaces, you want to try them out.” “I thought you‟d been gone a while” she said all unsuspecting “Have they got pretty attendants there?” “Funny you should say that.” I remarked and raised my arm defensively as she made to give me another swipe. “A joke, „twas a joke” I pleaded as she grinned and said “In that case I‟d better go and check the ladies room, maybe they‟ve got some young hunks to give us a massage.” “You wish.” I chuckled after her as she made her way out. I didn‟t like to deceive her as I had but thought that no purpose would be served by both of us worrying. Especially as it looked like there‟d be a successful closure to the problem with Mr. Grimm. We left the show in the early evening to see a bit more of this bustling community and gazed like typical tourists in shop windows. As the evening wore on the shops started to close and we found a casino. With money to burn we had an enjoyable time. Marie finished up with a load of tokens which she cashed in for the princely sum of $45. I lost about $50 which was unusual as I was usually lucky at poker. It was getting late as we climbed from the taxi outside our hotel and it wasn‟t long before we tumbled into bed slightly the worse for a few drinks. Marie mumbled something about wanting a massage but by the time I‟d got around to massaging her feet she was fast asleep. I kissed her gently, got no response so just drew her to me and fell asleep. Chapter 25 The morning promised another scorching hot day as we packed our bags, paid the bill and loaded up the Station Wagon. Soon the air-conditioning was working overtime as we headed onto the main highway and drove south toward Austin and Houston. Rather than stop for the night we decided to make it back to Galveston in one jump which would take around eight hours. We made a few stops for food and fuel and I rang ahead to let Chief Dan know we‟d be back that evening and asked him to inform Tad. After an uneventful drive we found ourselves nearing the dock weary, hot and sweaty but pleased to be back. The sun had set and the colour was leaching from the sky as we arrived back at Voyager. Tad was there to greet us. He told us that all was well and that he‟d prepared us a meal and coffee was bubbling away in the saloon. Marie went below to freshen up which gave me a few minutes to have a word with Tad. He told me he‟d had the bottom scraped and painted. I thanked and gave him a cheque to pay for it. I asked if we‟d had any visitors to which he replied that no-one had been aboard except for himself and the dockworkers that‟d helped to do the work on her. That was a relief to me as it meant Grimm still didn‟t know where we were, which also meant it was time to leave before he found out. I still didn‟t trust him to keep his word and no way was I going to put Marie or myself in any more danger if I could help it. Tad bade us goodnight and wished us fair winds before disappearing into the night. I‟d intended to finish unloading the Station Wagon in the morning but changed my mind and unloaded it anyway then helped Marie to tidy everything away. Worn out we sat down to enjoy the cold cuts and salad that Tad had so generously prepared. We were both dead beat so retired for the night, cuddling up like two spoons before dropping off to sleep lulled by the gentle rocking and sounds of water slapping against the hull. The sun was well up, its rays describing patterns on the bulkhead as the boat moved about. I glanced at Marie, who was still sleeping, her lips slightly apart with her tongue peeping through. I leant across and kissed her gently touching her tongue with the tip of mine. She stirred and opened her eyes lazily then closed them again as my tongue slid into her mouth. She reached up and put her arms around me and I could feel the warmth of her. I reached down to pull up the hem of her nightie. Marie lifted her bum allowing me to pull it up, slip it over her head and drop it to the floor. Her nipples were already stiffened in anticipation and I leaned over to kiss each one. Marie shivered with delight and squirmed against me feeling for my manhood. “What a lovely awakening” she murmured as she gently stroked the end of my penis covering the end with my juices which had started to flow. I found it almost unbearably stimulating and placed myself between her legs. She guided me to her and rubbed my throbbing member against her vagina until we were both wet and slippery. With a small groan she pulled me into her. Our love-making was brief and intense until sated we lay with our arms about each other. I eventually got out of bed and made us a pot of coffee. Marie had a shower and dressed in only a dressing gown joined me on deck to enjoy the sun‟s warmth before it got to hot. There came shout from the jetty. I got up and went to the gangway. It was the harbour-master. “Good morning folks hope I didn‟t disturb you.” he said “Not at all chief,” I replied “what can I do for you?” “Got a call from your bank asking if you could drop by some time today as there‟s something that needs clarifying. Don‟t ask me what „cos they wouldn‟t say.” “Thanks chief, I‟ ll go as soon as I‟m decent and thanks for taking the trouble to come and tell me.” I asked him if he‟d care for a coffee but he said he‟d got to get back to the office. After he‟d gone I wondered what the message was all about. I told Marie what the chief had said. “I‟ll pop over there after breakfast when I take the battlewagon back.” I said. I returned the Station Wagon to a somewhat surprised rental company explaining that I‟d had to cut short the vacation quoting „Family Problems‟. I walked to the bank which thankfully was not far away. Once inside I asked to see the manager giving my name. The manager appeared, shook hands and led me back to his office. He got straight to the point. “I‟m so sorry Mr. Weston, but we‟ve not been able to forward the package as you requested as we‟ve received no address too forward it to.” I frowned “Strange, can‟t understand that, I gave my contact instructions to call and give you a forwarding address. Never mind, If I can impose on you to let me use your phone I‟ll try and sort it out.” The manager agreed and left the office to give me some privacy. I dialled Steve‟s number, there were a number of clicks and was disturbed to hear a voice I didn‟t recognise. I tried to disguise my voice with some mid-Atlantic accent and asked for Steve. “Who is calling please?”” said the voice. I grabbed a name out of the air “Benny Akins” I replied “Is Steve there?” “Well that‟s something we are trying to ascertain sir. He seems to have gone missing. He was last seen on Tuesday night last week going aboard his boat in the company of two unknown gentlemen. The following morning his boat had gone and no-one knows where to as he left no indication of his destination. It was brought to our attention when a trail of blood was discovered leading to the dockside where his boat had been moored. May I ask what your connection is to Mr. Charlton?” “And you are?” I asked. “Oh sorry sir, I‟m Detective Inspector Jameson. Your call was transferred to my office.” I felt my blood run cold to think I may have been instrumental in something happening to Steve. I said “Steve did some work on my boat and I was going to tell him that all was well with it.” “I see sir,” replied Jameson “if you should hear from or see him you might tell him of our concerns and would appreciate his call.” I said I would tell him in the unlikely event we should meet and hung up. I sat there for a minute thoughts whirling in my brain as I tried to make sense of it all. There was a tap on the door and the manager stuck his head in asking if I‟d finished. “Yes” I said in a distracted manner. The manager asked if I was feeling OK as I looked a little peaky, I told him I‟d had some bad news concerning a family member. The manager said he was sorry to hear it and was there anything he could. I was about to answer in the negative but hesitated then said I would take the two packages with me as my plans had changed. He took me to the safety deposit room. I recovered the packages, said I would see him again sometime and thanked him for all his help. Once outside I hailed a cab which took me back to the docks. I stopped off at the harbour-master‟s office and caught him as he was about to leave. “Well there‟s a coincidence” he said “I was just on my way to see you. We had a radio call asking if we‟d seen a boat matching yours lately. I didn‟t take the call myself and I‟m afraid the operator gave out your berth number” I must have gone pale as the chief said “You OK sir?” “I‟m fine.” I said, feeling anything but “Probably too much sun.” “Well take care and wear a hat, the sun can be a bit fierce.” said the chief, not looking convinced. I promised I would and then told him we‟d probably be leaving as soon as the boat was ready. “Well it‟s been a pleasure to know you and your beautiful lady, now you be sure and visit again.” replied the Chief. I said I would and shook his hand warmly. The cab was sti ll waiting and took me back to the boat. We needed to get away as quickly as possible but I didn‟t want to worry Marie unduly. I returned the gems to their original hiding place. Taking a deep breath I made my way back to the cabin. “Hi sweetheart” said Marie “Everything OK?” “Yep” I replied “Everything‟s fine. They‟d got a number wrong in my account.t” I hated lying but it was all I could think of. I said nothing for a few minutes busying myself making a pot of coffee to allay suspicions, then… “Don‟t know about you sweetheart but all this hot sun is getting to me, how about moving on?” “Where to?” she enquired. “Oh I don‟t know, anywhere to get a bit of sea breeze” I replied thinking desperately. “Er, what about heading through the Panama canal then wherever the fancy takes us?” “Sounds exciting, when are we going to leave?” she asked. “How about now, well, as soon as we‟re ready?” I countered. Chapter 26 We started making our preparations as soon as the sun set and we lost the fierce heat. Whilst Marie took a cab to the local supermarket to stock up on food I took Voyager over to the depot to top up the fuel and water tanks. On the way over the engines gave an uncharacteristic burp and shot a cloud of black smoke across the water after which they ran smoothly again. I sighed with relief, the last thing we needed was an engine problem. Within a couple of hours I was back at the berth and Marie was waiting with a pile of groceries. I helped to get it aboard and stowed away then suggested we call it a day and go ashore for a last meal in Galveston. After sprucing ourselves up we took a cab to a local fish restaurant renowned for its cuisine. Marie looked spectacular in a simple white pleated dress which showed off her tan. I presented her with a single red rose which she put in her hair above her ear. She certainly turned a few heads and I felt really proud of her as she clung to my arm waiting to be seated. The restaurant lived up to expectation as we dined on a variety of fish dishes with a fine white wine to help it down. It was getting very late as we rode in a cab back to Voyager. Marie was resting her head on my shoulder and seemed half asleep. I gave her a nudge as we arrived. She opened her eyes, smiled and nibbled my ear before blowing a hot kiss in it. I kissed her soundly before we alighted from the cab, paying him off with a generous tip. Once aboard we flopped down on the saloon settee and I undid the top button of my trousers “Ah that‟s better” I said as the surfeit of fish found more room to spread. “I‟ ll get as fat as a pig at this rate” I sighed. Marie flopped down beside me “My dress is feeling a bit tight too” She leaned forward so that I could unzip her. She too sighed with relief as she was able to relax. “Coffee baby?” I asked. “Would prefer a nice cuppa tea” she replied. I went into the galley and busied myself making a pot of tea. By the time it was ready Marie was fast asleep stretched out on the settee. I hadn‟t the heart to wake her so getting a blanket I covered her up then sat at the table sipping my brew and watched the rise and fall of her breast as she slept. Once again I felt an overwhelming sense of love for my beautiful lover and wife. It was only later after I‟d put her to bed and climbed in myself that, lying there in the darkness, a feeling of unease overcame me as I thought about the days events at the bank and the fact that now somebody knew where we were. It was already sweltering when I stuck my head through the hatchway. I screwed up my eyes against the glare. I had not had a deal of sleep, my head was pounding and my eyes felt full of grit as I staggered into the saloon. “You look rough dear.” said an all too bright Marie as she handed me a welcome cup of coffee. I had a good slurp before trying to answer. “I think there‟s a little bugger trying to bang his way out of my skull” I groaned. “Ah diddums, have too many drinkypoos last evening then?” “Don‟t think so” I replied “Who do you think put you to bed, the night nurse?” I moaned then forced a smile and said “Good morning sweetheart how‟s my baby today?” “I is fine hon.” She said “So, when are we off to Panama then?” “As soon as I join the living, that‟s if I ever do. I think someone‟s turned the sun up a notch or two, it‟s a bit bright.” She handed me my sunglasses which I donned gratefully. After a good fry-up and a couple more coffees I felt a bit more myself so started on making the Voyager ready for sea. We both spent the day securing everything on deck and in the living areas. The sun was going down by the time we were happy that all was as safe and secure as it could be. I made a final call on Chief Dan to once again thank him for all his help, told him we were about to leave and asked him to keep our destination - The Panama Canal – to himself. He looked at me suspiciously but I assured him that we were doing nothing illegal but some people who might wish us harm could be. “You sure there‟s nothing I can do to help?” He asked. “Quite sure” I replied “Don‟t worry, we‟ll be OK but, just in case, you know where we‟re headed. Our intention is to only stop to refuel and top up with supplies. I‟ ll decide where when I feel it‟s the right time.” We shook hands and I made my way back to the boat. We decided to have a meal, some sleep, and leave before dawn which would be between 4.30 – 5.00am. I was unable to sleep so, leaving Marie to sleep I actually cast us off at 3.50am and made our way slowly out into the bay. The sea was like a mirror, the only breeze, that which we created as we moved through the water. To make it appear we were heading east we passed the breakwater to the east of Tiki Island then southeast as if toward Miami. We made good time as there was barely a ripple on the sea. By nightfall we were well out into the Gulf of Mexico. That‟s when we had our first hint of trouble. It began with a misfire and a c loud of sooty smoke from the exhausts then all seemed OK for a few minutes when the same thing happened again “Now what‟s up?” I thought. Marie poked her head out of the saloon “We got a problem?” she asked, as if in answer both of the engines started misfiring. I opened the throttles hoping to clear whatever was causing it but it just got worse until the engines just died. I tried to restart them but except for the odd cough, nothing. “Yep, seems like we do have a problem.” I agreed “Can you fix it?” asked Marie “Don‟t know dear, I hope so. I‟ll have to go down into the engine room and see what‟s what. Just keep an eye open for anything that might look as if it‟s gonna hit us. We should be OK but there might be the odd fishing boat.” I switched the radio on and checked that we could send and receive. I called up Chief Dan and told him of our plight and what I proposed to do. “You need help buddy?” he asked. “I‟ll see what I can find first chief, might just be a blocked fuel line” I gave him our co-ordinates and he promised to keep an ear open in case we should need help. I made my way into the engine room and looked round, everything seemed OK, no sign of water, oil or fuel leakage I opened a bleed valve on top of the fuel filters to each engine in turn and apart from a slight hiss of escaping air, which was not unusual, fuel seemed to be flowing ok. I wiped my hands on a piece of rag whilst I tried to think of something else. It still seemed to be a fuel problem to me. I absentmindedly stroked my chin then scratched my nose. „Hello‟ I thought. I sniffed my fingers again. There was a faint smell of diesel fuel but nothing like as strong as it should be. Once again I opened a bleed valve and caught a small amount of fluid in my hand I sniffed it then touched it with my tongue. “Damn and blast.” I muttered “Water, now where the hell‟s that come from” After trying both fuel supplies I came to the conclusion that the trouble lay with the fuel tank or tanks. We had three tanks, the main one on the centre-line between the engines and an auxiliary tank against the hull either side. I checked the main tank‟s sight glass which showed how much fuel was in the tank, it showed nearly full, unfortunately it seemed to be 90% water with a little diesel floating on top. I reported my findings to Marie. “So I guess we‟re stuck are we, should we call the coastguard to tow us in?” “ Not just yet” I said I‟ll see if I can drain the water off first.” I returned to the engine room, grabbed a bucket and proceeded to drain off the main tank after first checking that the two auxiliaries were not contaminated. Fortunately they appeared to be OK. It took me most of the night to drain the water from the main tank until only neat diesel flowed. I opened up the valves manually on the two auxiliaries and allowed them to fill the main one. So far so good, now I had to clear water from the fuel system of the engines. I replaced the filters and bled the systems through until I was satisfied that all the water had gone. By this time I was dead beat so went back to the saloon to have a little sleep. Marie was keeping a lookout for any ships and looked all in as well. “We‟ll have half an hour‟s kip each” I suggested “and then we‟ll see if we can get the old girl running again” So saying I shut my eyes and was dead to the world almost immediately. I woke with a start and checked my watch I‟d been asleep for almost four hours. I got up and went to the wheelhouse to find Marie was slumped over the chart table fast asleep. I went out on deck and looked all round, we seemed to have the sea to ourselves except for a white cruiser some miles away to the east which would pass us well to the north. Chapter 27 I went below again and made a pot of coffee for me, a pot of Marie‟s favourite tea, some toast and marmalade and took it up to the wheelhouse. I gave Marie a gentle shake and she jumped up with a “Wha….! Oh my god! I‟m sorry dear I….” I shut her up with a kiss and handed her a cup of tea. “We were both whacked out and there‟s no harm done now eat your toast while I try and get the old girl started.” I went back to the engine room to start the engines from there and keep an eye on the flow of fuel. I crossed my fingers and pressed the compressed air starter. With a hiss one engine motored over but refused to start. I tried the other one with the same result. I bled the air from the fuel system and tried again. Number one coughed and spluttered and burst into life but was running roughly. The same thing happened with number two but at least they were running after a fashion. I went back on deck. I could hardly see anything for all the diesel smoke. From the wheelhouse Marie gave me the thumbs up sign. I smiled and nodded but I was not happy, the engines were not happy either as they continued to belch smoke. I went to the wheelhouse and told Marie we‟d have to make for a port somewhere and get the engines properly serviced before we tried to head off into the wide blue yonder. I left the engines on idle and asked Marie to keep watch whilst I had a shower and a change of clothes. Half an hour later I was feeling considerably fresher and told Marie to go for a rest and I would have a tinker with the engine settings. The engine water and oil temperature readings seemed to be normal which was a blessing. I increased the throttles a bit keeping a watchful eye on the temperatures. The last thing we needed was a seized engine as it would cost a fortune to replace or repair it. What with the smoke and watching the gauges I hadn‟t noticed that the white cruiser we‟d seen earlier was now heading toward us. I took the binoculars from the table and focused on it. It was difficult to make out as we were still wreathed in smoke. I went below and could hear Marie in the shower. I opened the wardrobe and took out a package, it contained an automatic pistol. I checked the load and stuffed one up the spout, stuck it inside my waistband at the back of my jeans and covered it with my shirt- tail. I went back on deck but kept out of the line of sight of the other craft which was now within hailing distance. I peered through a gap in the door. There appeared to be two people onboard a man sporting a bushy beard and a young woman with long blonde hair wearing a bikini that left little to the imagination. The cruiser drifted toward us and a voice shouted “So that‟s how you treat a boat as soon as I let you out of my sight.” I stepped around to his side of the boat and replied “What brings you to these „ere parts Cap‟n?” “You did you daft beggar.” he said, laughing out loud. I could hardly believe my eyes as it was only the voice that gave him away. Steve was unrecognisable with the beard. “Saw all the smoke and thought you‟d got a fire, nothing worse than fire at sea.” I lowered some fenders as he drifted closer alongside. I grabbed a line and hauled him close too. Shutting down his engines he jumped over to our side. We shook hands and pummelled each other on the shoulders. “Now what seems to be the problem then boss?” asked Steve. I told him what had happened. “Never trust the shore bods to do the job proper like „specially when „tis fuel, the buggers‟ll rob you blind if you don‟t watch „em” “I‟ve found that out.” I agreed ruefully. “So what‟s the plan then?” he asked. “Think I‟d best find a place for an overhaul and service of the engines and get the fuel tanks cleaned out and refilled.” I said. “I know just the place” said Steve “almost due north of here and he‟ll do a proper job too and not charge you the earth. Anyway where‟s that gorgeous wife of yours I lust after.” As if on cue Marie appeared and flung herself at him and gave him a big hug and kiss “You great lummox what you doing in these parts then?” she asked. “Just thought I‟d take this young lady for a cruise.” he said beckoning to the young woman who still seemed a bit fazed by what was going on. “Come and meet the bloke who‟s paying for our trip my dear.” He took her hand and helped her aboard at the same time giving me a meaningful look which went unnoticed by the girls. “May I introduce Elena; she joined me in Tenerife looking for a lift back to the States or, more correctly San Diego. Ain‟t she a little cracker?” I nodded enthusiastically and Marie gave me a „Don‟t you dare,‟ look. Elena just blushed and looked at the deck. Marie said “Come on Elena let‟s go get something to drink” Elena looked gratefully at her and followed her into the saloon. “Let me just call the coastguard at Galveston to let them know we‟re OK I said.” I headed for the radio. Raising Chief Dan I told him we were alright and in good company. He wished us bon voyage. “Nice bloke he is” I told Steve. “I‟m sure he is. It was him or his oppo told me where you were” “You had me worried there Steve, I thought it was someone a bit more sinister, that‟s why we left and if we‟d not broken down you‟d never have found us. To be honest I feared that bloody Grimm had done you in” “He came damned close I can tell you. If it hadn‟t been for a bit of fortuitous bad weather on the way here it might have been the end of me.” “So what happened?” I asked. He tapped the side of his nose “Let‟s just say they were with me and now they‟re not. You don‟t live in the world I do without learning how to survive.” “Well I‟m damned glad you did „cos you are now a rich man. Come with me” I lead him into the engine room. The engines were still grumbling but not as bad. I retrieved one of the packages of gems and handed them to him. He looked inside and his eyes widened at the sight of so much wealth. “No mate, you keep „em you‟ve been through a lot because of me and them.” Steve tried to push the gems back to me but I pushed back saying “Look my friend there‟s enough for both of us. You did what you were forced to do so you‟re just as much a victim as us. In any case I‟ve still got the rest of the gems, in other words an equal split.” Steve reached across and gripped my hand “You‟re a gent sir and I won‟t forget it.” I punched him on the shoulder “Get away with you you‟ll have me in tears.” We both laughed. Back on deck we joined the girls for a drink and sandwiches which the ladies had made together. Later I tested the engines again. They certainly sounded healthier even though they were still a bit smoky. Steve agreed they should hold up unti l we made harbour and said he‟d accompany us just in case. We set off heading northwards toward the coast which I estimated to be about 4 hours away. I slowly opened up the throttles keeping a sharp eye on the gauges for anything untoward. The hours passed and sunset was not far off by the time we reached the harbour that Steve had suggested. We dropped anchor and Steve went ashore to try and catch his contact before his workday ended. He was lucky to find him in the process of locking up the yard and persuaded him to come aboard for a quick inspection. Steve introduced him as Martin Tancredy “The biggest rogue on the gulf” as Steve described him but he certainly knew his business and was able to reassure me that there didn‟t seem to be any damage to the engines but the fuel system would need a complete overhaul and clean. He also suggested I dump all the fuel I could not say for certain was clean. I asked how long a job it was and he thought about two maybe three days always assuming there were no unforeseen problems. He‟d start on it first thing in the morning and told me to run Voyager into the little dock adjoining his work shed which I did and switched off the engines after we‟d secured. Steve had found a berth about a hundred yards along the wharf. It was a quiet little dockyard at this time of day with just the slip- slop and gurgle of water against the pilings to be heard. We cleaned up, changed clothes and walked along the wharf to Steve‟s boat. He welcomed us aboard and pushed drinks into our hands. “So what do you fancy doing this evening then” asked Steve. I hadn‟t a clue and said so. “Ah well then I‟ ll have to introduce you both to a nice little bar and restaurant not far from here but,” He looked at his watch. “it will be another hour or so before the restaurant bit is open so if you can hang on until then I‟m sure you won‟t be disappointed.” Marie and I nodded together. “Good, we‟ll have another couple of drinks whilst we wait.” Without further ado Steve ushered us into his saloon pointed to his well stocked bar and said “Help yourselves my friends to anything that takes your fancy, just keep your hands off Elena otherwise I shall take that as an invitation to romance your missus.” “In your dreams, sailor.” I replied “My lady is not for the likes of common seafarers.” I grinned and put my arm around Marie saying “I‟ ll protect ee maam from the scurvy knave.” Elena didn‟t seem to know what was going on and looked a bit bewildered even though she smiled at our banter. “Don‟t take any notice of „em my dear” Marie said to her “They‟re both mad as hatters but loveable with it.” She looked at me and waggled her glass “A gal could die of thirst waiting for service here.” And so we whiled away the time until Steve suggested we make a move and go to the Restaurant. We trooped along the wharf, through a gate and into the little town beyond. „Danny„s‟, for that was its name was a pleasant little place the aroma from which set us salivating. Danny himself greeted us and ushered us to a quiet corner and, after bringing us a jug of beer, left us to study the menu. Having had seafood the last time we were ashore I chose a steak with all the trimmings, Marie chose a seafood platter which seemed to me to contain everything the sea could provide except a whale. The meal was delicious and in the company of our good friend the evening passed full of laughter and badinage with jokes flying back and forth with both Marie and Elena putting in their two penn‟orth. It was gone 1am by the time we weaved our way back to the boatyard. We had all imbibed more than was good for us, so much so that if Steve hadn‟t grabbed her, Elena would have walked off the wharf into the sea. All she did was giggle and drape herself around Steve‟s neck. Steve looked at us and sighed “What is this power I have over beautiful wimmen” He leered at Marie who said “Well, perhaps it‟s because you have to get them drunk first.” Both she and Elena thought that remark was hysterical and went off in a fit of laughter. Marie said “Oh! Stop it before I wet myself” Elena laughed helplessly “I think it‟s too late for me already” she squeaked, staggered up the gangplank and fell in a heap on top of a pile of canvas. By the time we got to her she was snoring in a strange hiccuppy way which seemed to suggest she was still laughing in her sleep. Steve picked her up “That‟s another effect I have on them too” he sighed. “Ah well, say goodnight Gracie.” he said to Elena who mumbled something ending in “Gracie.” We left him there and weaved our way back to Voyager. We went to bed leaving a trail of clothing behind us, Marie fell onto the bed and I, after tripping over trying to take a sock off fell on top of her. “Unh!” She grunted. “Sorry baby.” I said. “That hurt.” she complained. “Where?” I asked. “Kiss it better” she said” “Ok where? I asked again. “All over” she said. I kissed her forehead “There?” “Lower down.” she breathed I kissed her eyelids, the tip of her nose and then brushed her lips with a feather- light touch. I could feel her stirring against me as I worked my way lower to kiss her throat. Held her hands and spread her arms horizontally and kissed my way from her neck to the tip of each nipple which was by now erect. I couldn‟t resist running my tongue around each one and sucking it which made her squirm and shiver. Further down, her stomach and belly were kissed and licked. I released her hands and turned around on top of her and starting with each toe kissed my way up each leg by which time she was moaning and raising her hips in li ttle jerks. I kissed the insides of her thighs then ran my tongue across her vagina before poking it gently into her. Marie gasped and her hands reached for me. I was more than ready for her even after the amount of drink we‟d had and was leaking on her. The next thing I knew her hot mouth was driving me to distraction as I buried my face in her my fingers and tongue going into overdrive as we both reached a climax, jerking and shuddering as we spent ourselves. Later I said “A perfect end to the day. Say goodnight Gracie.” but Marie was already asleep. I kissed her forehead and joined her. We rose early to allow Martin to make a start on the fuel system. Marie went off to meet Elena. Together they were going into the town for a little retail therapy. Somehow Marie had learned there was a shopping complex on the edge of town (I suspected from Steve) so I didn‟t expect to see her again until evening. Steve came over and helped me drain off the suspect fuel tanks into a bowser that Martin had thoughtfully provided. I‟d told him he could keep any fuel he could salvage. As there was a lot he insisted on paying for it by knocking it off his bill. Once the fuel was offloaded Steve and I were at a loose end so retired to the saloon for a beer or two and some sandwiches that Marie had thoughtfully prepared. Once we were settled, beer in one hand, sandwich in the other I said to Steve “Ok Steve, story time.” He fiddled with his beer can, emptied it, crushed it and dropped it in the rubbish bin, leaned back in his chair, blew out his cheeks and said “It‟ll be thirsty work so another beer is in order.” I went to the fridge and got two more beers. I opened them sliding one to Steve who took a long pull. He burped and said “Before I start let me say that I never intended any harm to come to you or Marie and did my best to protect you both.” “Look Steve” I said “I think I know that otherwise why do you think I cut you in on the gems? OK you got yourself in a mess but you also seem to have got out of it and we are all still here. I hold no hard feeling toward you even though you and that scumbag Grimm managed too almost wreck what was to be a cruise to remember for me and Marie.” Steve visibly relaxed and took another pull of his beer “OK, here goes then……….” Chapter 28 Steve’s Story Well, It all kicked off after your ultimatum too Grimm. (He began) As you can imagine it didn’t go down well. He threw all his toys out of the pram and was convinced I was lying when I told him I didn’t know where you called me from and threatened to have Hector – his Heavy - break my legs and anything else that took his fancy if I didn’t cough up. Believe me I was scared to death but stuck to my story. Eventually I guess I must have convinced him I was telling the truth. He wouldn’t let me out of his sight though and to make sure he locked me in one of the cabins. When he finally let me out it was obvious he was pleased about something. It came as something of a shock to me when he told me he knew where you were. My puzzlement must have shown as he explained that a cruiser like yours would not go unnoticed. It was just a matter of patience and call ing in a few favours from friends in the States. After his failed attempt to retrieve him gems in Tenerife he had come to the conclusion that you must have sailed west after leaving the Canary Isles and the most likely but by no means certain destination would be the USA. That’s when his stateside contacts struck pay dirt. They’d circulated a description of Voyager and it was by pure bloody bad luck that one of their contacts was in Galveston and on a pleasure cruise around the harbour when you arrived there. He remembered seeing Voyager and earned himself some brownie points by reporting in. Grimm then told me you had gone on a trip inland and that your boat was in dock. He was determined to catch up with you and teach you not too mess wi th him. Just for the record, Grimm’s not his real name you know; it’s Grimaldi and apparently has a rather tenuous link to the famous Grimaldi , actor and clown. He changed it to Grimm so’s it would sound more macho and sinister to his minions. He demanded I get my own cruiser ready for sea immediately. I asked him why he didn’t fly over he said he didn’t like flying and that he didn’t want to risk getting caught trying to smuggle the gems back to the UK, assuming he found them of course. It was far safer to use the boat. He wasn’t telling his US mates what he wanted you for in case they got the idea in their heads to rip him off and keep the gems for themselves. He didn’t trust anyone. Anyway, I went through the motions of getting the boat ready at the same time trying to think of a way to stop him from sailing. Sabotaging the boat wasn’t possible as Hector followed me everywhere. That evening everything was ready but I managed to delay us a little by saying we’d have to wait for high tide which wouldn’t be until around 2am. We went ashore to a nearby bar. Grimm made a call to his American contact to check Voyager was still at Galveston. I needed a drink, after several of which I said I needed to go to the toilet. My shadow came too and, as he washed his hands I hit him as hard as I could and he fell down. I climbed onto a wash basin and struggled to open a small window. It was stuck shut with paint but I finally managed to open it. As I pushed my head through I was pulled back by my feet. My chin hit the window frame and the basin as I fell, my mouth was full of blood and I was dazed. Hector’s head was harder than I’d thought and he’d foiled my attempted getaway. With the help of Grimm they stood me up, supported me as though I was drunk and walked me back aboard, tied me up and locked me in a cabin, but not before Hector got his own back by thumping me alongside the head, knocking me out. When I came round again I could hear the sound of the engines. I looked out of the porthole. We were underway and racing through the water, not a good idea in such a crowded waterway. I hoped that we’d attract the attentions of the coastguard if we didn’t slow down. But my luck was out and we made it out into the Atlantic. I lay down on the bunk feeling pretty groggy and passed out again only to be woken by being thrown off the bunk as the cruiser lurched almost onto its beam ends. I heard a bang followed by a series of crunches. The cabin door was flung open, Hector untied me. “Get up top – now,” he ordered “and no funny business.” Once on the upper deck I could see that we were caught up in a storm and it took us all our time to get to the wheelhouse. Grimm was on the wheel sweating like a pig and fighting to keep our head to the wind. “Gotta problem boss?” I asked facetiously. “Don’t be a smartarse,” snarled Grimm. “I reckon the anchor’s broken loose, you can go fix it.” “In this weather?” I asked incredulously. “You must be mad.” Grimm, who was looking a bit pale, pulled out a gun, pointed it at me and snarled “Just get your arse down there and fix it or the bow won’t be the only thing with a hole in it.” I glanced at Hector, he didn’t look at all happy. “I can’t do it on my own” I said. “I know that, Hector’s gonna help you, now get moving and be quick about it.” “You’re going to have to slow down whilst were out there.” I said. Grimm, virtually dancing with rage shouted, “Just get your bloody selves out there and don’t tell me how to run the boat.” I shrugged resignedly and went outside. I wanted to secure a lifeline to us but Hector just pushed me ahead of him. We weren’t wearing wet weather gear and it was freezing cold even if it was summertime. Seas were breaking over the bow every time we plunged into the oncoming waves, flooding the deck wi th a rushing storm of icy water. We clung onto any handholds that presented themselves and inched our way forward to the bow which was seesawing up and down like an express lift. One moment I would be weightless the next felt as if a ton weight was pressing down on me. The anchor had dropped about a foot and was banging back and forth. It had done no damage….yet, but it would only be a matter of time before it bashed a hole in the bow. I got to the windlass and pressed the button to start it and bring the anchor further up into the hawse-pipe. Nothing happened. Belatedly I remembered that the main swi tch was off in the engine room. I indicated to my companion the problem but he shook his head and pointed to the metal bars that were used to manually turn the windlass. We fitted them wi th difficulty and started to turn them. The anchor was slowly winched more snugly into place. It stopped banging against the side. All we had to do now was to make it secure by locking the windlass. As we started to remove the turning bars a gigantic wave swept over us I hung on to the windlass for dear life and could feel the water trying to suck me over the side. When it subsided I looked around there was no sign of Hector. I found it difficult to feel anything. I’d tried to tell him to use a lifeline, he wouldn’t and it had cost him his life as there was no way he could survive in this storm. If he didn’t drown he would die of hypothermia. “Bloody idiot” I muttered. I clawed my way back to the wheelhouse. Grimm, who’d seen the whole thing, was decidedly uncomfortable, so much so that he’d drawn his gun again which he tried to hold on me as well as steer. He let go of the wheel and stepped back “OK” he said “Take over the wheel and keep both hands in sight.” I was not going to argue wi th him as he was mad enough already although he didn’t seem too upset at the loss of Hector. “So,” I said “How’re we going to work this out? I can’t stay awake forever and neither can you.” “Just shut up, steer, and let me do the thinking.” He shouted. Now this guy was neither young nor fit and running to fat. With people to run around after him he didn’t need to be fit but all that had changed now as it was just he and I and that worried him. I grabbed the wheel and turned my attention to the boat doing my best to keep her pointing in the right direction. Grimm sat behind me in a corner of the wheelhouse occasionally glancing at the compass to make sure I kept more or less to the course we’d agreed. It wasn’t until dawn that the sea moderated and I was able to relax a bit. I could scarce keep my eyes open and once or twice my knees buckled as I nearly fell asleep. During this time the Boss had left the wheelhouse and returned wi th hot drinks for us. I was tempted to throw mine in his face and overpower him but I was so weak and tired I hadn’t the strength. Finally he told me to leave the wheel and sit down. As soon as I sat down I immediately fell asleep and was dead to the world until I was roughly shaken awake. I tried to stand but found that he’d found some handcuffs and handcuffed me to the back of the chair. He seemed very bright and alert which I found strange until I realised he had been taking some sort of stay-awake pills, Benzedrine probably. He released one of my hands so I could stand, dragged me over to the wheel then handcuffed me again using the wheel as a restraint. It didn’t impede my ability to steer but made it a bit awkward. He left me and went below after warning me not to try any funny business. Left alone I wracked my brain for a way to escape but there was no way. The wheel was too tough to break and all I got was sore wrists. I resigned myself to another long day at the wheel. I must have nodded off because I came to with a start as I was given a clout across the head that made me see stars. Bossy, as I now called him was almost frothing with rage his eyes red and blazing. His face was the colour of a beetroot as he kept slapping me shouting that I was trying to kill them both. Between blows I saw that I’d drifted of course by a considerable amount. For how long I’d no idea. Suddenly he stopped beating me and just stood there, his breathing short and ragged, his eyes were bulging. His mouth was working but no words came out. Suddenly his legs sagged at the knees and he finished up kneeling beside me then he just sighed and his head went down to touch the floor. The boat rolled a bit and he keeled over sideways and just lay there in a foetal position. “Oh shit, that’s all I need,” I thought, “The silly sod’s gone and pegged out.” I tried to stir him wi th my foot but got no response. I was able to get down lower by stretching my arms above my head. He was definitely not breathing. I guess all the excitement plus the pills and getting worked up was too much for his heart. I was in a quandary. I was handcuffed to the wheel and had already failed to get loose once already so now what could I do? He’d got the keys to the cuffs in his pocket, at least I hoped he had but how to get them was the problem. The sea had calmed considerably as the wind died away. I was able to nudge the engine controls to idle so that any movement of the wheel would have little effect. By stretching my arms I was able to sit down beside the body. I stuck one foot in his jacket pocket and wi th a jerk tore it open, it was empty. With some effort and a lot of rocking of the body I was able to turn him over and do the same to his other pocket. I breathed a sigh of relief when the keys fell out onto the deck. Relief tempered wi th fear that I wouldn’t be able to pick them up. My arms felt as if they were being pulled from their sockets but I couldn’t give up now. I took a little rest as I thought about the puzzle. I managed to remove a shoe and sock then tried to wriggle one of my toes through the key-ring. I managed it after several attempts. The next bit was going to be painful but it was the only way I could think of. I slid my bum around until I was facing the console. I lifted my foot, being careful not to dislodge the keys, and jammed it against console. Then I did something I’d not done since I was a young boy. My thigh muscles screamed in protest as I lowered my head toward my foot. I tried to ignore the pain as my leg muscles cracked and popped until I was able to pick the keys off my toe wi th my teeth. I slowly lifted my head away from my foot, what a relief. Carefully I dropped the key into my open palm and was able to manoeuvre the key until I finally got it in the lock. The cuffs fell off and I collapsed on the chair, the sweat pouring off me from my efforts and giggling like an idiot wi th relief. About an hour later after a shower and something to eat and drink I felt ready to face the body again which by now was cooling off. I emptied his pockets keeping only his money and the pistol. I tried to remember who else knew of our trip. I couldn’t think of anyone and knowing Grimm I doubt he would have told anyone either in case they tried to beat him to the gems. I rolled his body over the side saying, “Effing good riddance,” as it sank wi th help from a few spare anchor chain links put in his pockets. I cleared away all traces of him and his bodyguard and sailed into the sunset. The rest, as they say, is history……….. Chapter 29 Steve was staring into his beer seeming to relive his story. I got up, patting him on the shoulder as I passed to get us another couple of beers. “With a bit of luck we should all be in the clear then,” I said hopefully Steve nodded “The only people involved are the ones who were to receive the gems and his mates in the States and they‟ll not be interested if they don‟t hear from him, there‟s nothing in it for them. With a bit of luck whoever was too receive the gems will think he‟s done a bunk with „em. So far as I know they‟re unaware of your involvement and now there‟s no-one left alive to tell them otherwise. I would suggest that you get a new paint job done on Voyager though when you get the chance. Can‟t be too careful eh?” Just one thing puzzled me though and I voiced it. “Why didn‟t you turn round and go back home Steve?” I asked him. “Ah well. Initially I was going too,” replied Steve. “But fuel was getting a bit low and I was closer to the Canaries than anywhere else. When I got there the first thing I did was to ring one of my workers back in Poole to let him know where I was. He seemed relieved to hear from me and told me the police were all over the place and going though the books. I thought, Oops! There were one or two things that were not strictly legal and certainly not to be looked into by the Fuzz.” He gave me a lopsided smile when I raised an eyebrow. “Anyway” he continued “While I was deciding what to do, along comes the lovely Elena looking for a ride home, and well, you know the rest.” It was getting on toward dusk when the girls arrived back aboard loaded with packages “Well that should make a hole in the bank balance” I commented wryly. Marie gave me a big sunny smile saying “Because you love me. Anyway I bought something for you too.” “Oh goody, what is it? Show me.” I replied “I‟ll show you later.” she said cryptically. “Look forward to it my lovely.” I patted her bum. “So what you and Steve been up to then?” She enquired. I told her we‟d been emptying the fuel tanks. “Looks like you‟ve been emptying a few beer cans as well” She said, pointing to the rubbish bin. “Well its thirsty work all that humping and pumping.” I replied “Sounds familiar, I‟ll believe you.” she replied coyly “Thousands wouldn‟t.” So what happens now then Steve?” I enquired later. “I think I‟m going to go through the Canal and run up the west coast and drop the little lady off in San Diego that‟s if she doesn‟t decide to stay with me and after that who knows,” he gave me a wink “If you know what I mean.” “Randy old goat.” I chuckled. “‟Ere you, not so much of the old, squire.” He said, punching me on the shoulder “What about you and her gorgeousness, what‟s your plans?” I told him we too were going through the Panama Canal but after that, who knew. We decided to have one last run ashore before going our separate ways. We went to the same restaurant as before and had a thoroughly good time. Back at the dock we said fond farewells with much hugging, kissing and backslapping as Steve and Elena were going to leave earlier than us in the morning. Back on board we had a cup of tea before retiring. “I‟ve just remembered” I said “You said you had a prezzie for me” “Oh shoot, I‟d almost forgotten,” replied Marie “I‟ll go and get it.” I was already in bed when she returned. From the other side of the door she said “Shut your eyes and don‟t open them „til I tell you.” I shut my eyes and waited. From much closer she said “You can open them now” I opened my eyes and standing before me was a vision in a nightdress that seemed more like a series of knotted silk handkerchiefs. It left nothing to the imagination. Marie stood there her breasts pushing proudly against the silk, her figure outlined with mysterious shadows and hollows. “Do you like it my sweet?” Marie enquired breathily. I stood up as did my manhood. “My God woman that‟s one of the best prezzie‟s you‟ve ever bought me” I leaned forward and kissed her tenderly. “I especially like these” I said of the bows on the shoulders. I pulled the drawstrings and watched as the nightie floated slowly to the floor. Marie stood there like a pocket Venus her hands demurely covering herself. My hands traced the outline of her shoulders and down her arms to her hands which I raised up. Turning them I kissed the palms. “What a beautiful present” I whispered “With such a fantastic wrapping.” I took her hands and wrapped them around me until our bodies touched my hardness against her belly. She quivered gently. I ran my fingers through her hair, gently pulling her head back until I could kiss the hollow of her throat. She urged me back onto the bed until I was lying down. She leaned over me her breasts swaying tantalisingly before me. I kissed the nipples she offered me. Marie moved forward until she was kneeling above me her legs straddling mine the tip of my penis was brushing the soft downy hair. I could feel the heat of her as she lowered herself just a little until the lips of her vagina was brushing against my quivering member. She teased me with little movements of her body. I lifted my hips but she moved just enough to drive me mad. But I had a plan of my own. I caressed the back of her neck which she liked and then, without warning, I ran my fingernails down her spine. She squealed and went rigid, her head flung back and she sat down on me. The feeling was exquisite as I slid in. We moved together, she grinding against me and I trying to plunge ever deeper into her. Our mouths met and our tongues were entwined as I frantically reached my climax. Marie reached hers moments later both of us shuddering in ecstasy for long moments, continuing to caress and kiss each other long after the flames of passion had died. We fell asleep in each other‟s arms. Chapter 30 The morning sun was beginning to heat up the deck. I squinted against its brightness as I stuck my head through the hatchway. Steve‟s berth was empty. Mentally wishing them a safe passage I went below again to make Marie a cup of tea and some breakfast. She was sti ll asleep unti l I nudged her shoulder and tickled her ear. “Good morning lover” she said languidly and sat up so that I could put the tray on her lap. “Mmm, smells good, I‟m ravenous.” “Must be all that exercise last night” I grinned. I took one of the pieces of toast and sat on the bed beside her. “I‟ve been thinking on what Steve said. How about we follow his track and have a look at the west coast.” “Oo!” She exclaimed excitedly “Sounds like fun, can we go to Hollywood?” Martin, to my relief, gave us the all clear, so with fuel tanks refilled with fresh diesel and the engines running sweetly once more, we bade him farewell with a generous bonus for having diverted him from his other work. We cleared the docking area and set course for the Panama Canal. This time we had no need to be wary of any passing boat now that Grimm was no longer a threat. We negotiated the marvel of engineering called the Panama Canal. The weeks passed in a whirl as we visited many of the magical places we had only seen on screen or read of. We left Voyager in San Francisco harbour. And travelled by air and road to visit places we‟d only seen before on screen. The Grand Canyon was awesome seen from the air, even more so when Marie insisted we went white water rafting down the Colorado River. It frightened the life out of me but Marie was thrilled by it and appeared fearless no matter how rough the passage. Monument Valley was just as depicted in the numerous westerns I‟d seen. I almost expected to see John Wayne ride into view pursued by Indians. Hollywood was a bit of a disappointment, seeming a bit tawdry behind the glitz. Only Beverly Hills lived up to its name as the home of the stars. Not that we saw any as they were well hidden from public view behind their security gates and walls. I was impressed by the Navy Yard in San Diego, filled with monstrous ships that would have made any I sailed in look like row boats. It was a sign of the times though that many of the ships were neglected, rust streaked and ready for the breakers yard. I found it all rather sad. As a last meal Marie insisted we went to Fisherman‟s Wharf in San Francisco to sample the world famous cuisine. Sample it we certainly did until we felt too full to move. We were glad to get a cab back to where Voyager was moored and loosen everything off. We occasionally caught a glimpse of Steve‟s cruiser in our travels but only from a distance. I called him up on the radio and we had a natter. Elena it seemed had taken to the sea life and decided to stick with Steve much to his delight. He sounded like a dog with two tails. He told me they were going to sail to the Galapagos Islands to see the giant turtles. I had been wondering where we might go after we exhausted our stay in the US and it seemed like a good idea to follow him. I mentioned it to Marie who didn‟t need asking twice and so it was that we set off on the long journey south. It was about a 3,000 mile journey to a botanist‟s paradise that was the Galapagos Islands, situated about 500 miles to the west of Ecuador and as we motored southward the days and nights became hotter. We reverted to our practice of wearing minimal clothing and then only to protect us from the sun or none at all at night to take advantage of the cooling breeze created by our passage through the ocean. We were accompanied part way by a school of dolphins that raced ahead of our bows, leaping out of the water and plunging back in to take up station right under the bows. Flying fish would rise to skip across the ocean ahead of us or, if chased by the dolphins, would occasionally „fly‟ over the deck to splash down the other side. More than one stunned unfortunate became our evening meal. It also served to remind me of our ill-fated previous cruise. We neared our destination during the late evening and slowed so as not to pile up on any of the small islets surrounding the main group. Twilight turned to velvet blackness as night descended with a rush. We were coasting along so as to arrive during daylight. Marie was at the wheel and we were both naked so as to enjoy the cooling breeze. I stood behind her with my arms around her, my hands on hers as she steered. She leaned against me as I kissed her neck. Her body was soft and warm against my skin with just a hint of perspiration as the night air was quite humid. I found the sensation erotic in the extreme and couldn‟t stop the growing erection it triggered. Marie was aware of this and encouraged me be pushing and rubbing against me. I moved my hands to her breasts, kneading them and stroking her ripening nipples. Marie‟s knees were trembling as I moved my hands downward to stroke her belly and the insides of her thighs. Wetness lubricated my fingers as I gently massaged her vagina. Our breathing was becoming ragged as I pressed my penis between her legs. Marie let go of the wheel and bent over as I eagerly entered her from behind and started to move. Suddenly Marie moved away from me, grabbed me by the hand and ran into the saloon, threw herself onto the settee on her back and offered herself to me. I needed no urging and entered her once more. We moved together and I Iooked deep into her loving eyes as we strove to reach the pinnacle of joy. Our orgasms were reached in a fireworks display of passion then subsided to a slow and steady coupling. I ran my fingers through her hair as she stroked my face and neck then ran her hands up and down my back as we rocked together then, moving from me, took my now flaccid member, drew me up and ran her tongue over it and took me in her mouth. I shuddered at her touch which relit my fire and I could feel myself rising to the occasion again. Marie guided my hands down to her vagina so that I could stimulate her again but I wanted to do it differently so withdrew from her mouth and turned around so that I could kiss my way down to her moist and ready body. Once again she stroked my now rigid penis as I ran my tongue over, around and into her. She once more took me into her mouth at which point I nearly ejaculated but managed to control myself even though Marie was doing her best to bring me to the boil. I plunged my fingers into her simulating the movement my penis as I rained kisses on the silky insides of her thighs Marie‟s hips were rising and falling ever quicker as I performed my ministrations. She worked her magic on me until I could no longer control myself and tried to push into her mouth ever deeper as I spent myself. Marie‟s quivering increased until, with a barely suppressed scream, her hot juices flooded over my fingers and lips as she reached her climax. We lay there unti l our heartbeats settled down then I reversed my position and we clung to each other, hugging as if we never wanted to let go. Reluctantly we parted aware that Voyager was burbling along all on her own. A quick glance around revealed nothing in the immediate area although there was a blip on the edge of the radar screen more or less directly ahead and about 10 miles away. The radio, which had the volume turned down, reported nothing except some faint chatter as ships „talked‟ to each other or their home bases as they ploughed their lonely furrows. My calculations put us about 50 miles from the largest of the islands. The night was still very hot and sweat dripped off my nose onto the chart. A hand reached around and wiped my forehead with a cloth. “Thank you my love.” I smiled in the darkness. The only light was from the binnacle which cast an ethereal glow about the wheelhouse. Marie‟s face was part hidden by her mass of hair which I parted so that I could study her face. I took the cloth and gently brushed away the sweat from her face and neck then deposited a kiss on her waiting lips. “I love you so much.” I whispered “More than you will ever know.” and kissed her gently on the lips again. Her hands stroked my back as I worked over the chart. When I had finished I went out onto the deck to catch a little of the breeze, leaving Marie to steer. The sea about us glowed with the phosphorescence of our passing leaving a trail of light behind us. I gazed forward to where I thought the horizon might be. Stars glittered in the heavens but it was too dark to see where sky met ocean as the moon had yet to rise and we seemed to glide like a ghost ship through the velvet darkness. Chapter 31 As I gazed into the darkness ahead there was a sudden burst of orange light that faded almost immediately to be followed by a flickering rosy glow. About twenty seconds later I heard a sound like a crack of thunder. A streak of light and a red flare burst and drifted slowly downwards. I rushed into the wheelhouse and turned the radio to the distress channel. Immediately I heard a woman‟s hysterical voice screaming for help. It was Elena. I answered her saying we could see the flare and were heading their way. I gestured to Marie who rammed the throttles wide open. We braced ourselves as Voyager surged forward and raced toward the fast falling flare. I took a bearing on it before asking Elena what was the matter. She started to say something then the radio went silent, at the same time there was a bright flash and the rosy glow blossomed to a bright cherry red. I called again and again but got no response. A dull „boom‟ rolled over us. We were racing through the water at our top speed directly toward the glow. A glance at the radar showed them to be no more than three miles away. I rushed to get some protective clothing on and our fire fighting equipment ready. It was little enough with only a small hose which was run from a diesel auxiliary pump plus some hand extinguishers which I collected from various positions on the boat. All we could do now was to wait until we got there. More flares were launched but we were now close enough to see the outline of Steve‟s cruiser and the fire that was raging amidships below the wheelhouse. Marie manoeuvred us to the windward side so that smoke drifted away from us. I started the pump and played our puny hosepipe onto the fire. I could make out a figure on the foredeck. It was Elena, firing off distress flares. Marie played our searchlight onto Elena‟s position. She ran toward us and leapt the gap onto our foredeck then threw herself at me nearly knocking me over. “Steve‟s in there.” she screamed, tears running down her face, pointing to the seat of the blaze “Get him out! Get him out! He‟ll be burned to death.” I dropped the hose, grabbed a couple of the extinguishers and leapt across to Steve‟s boat. The heat was intense but my efforts with the hose had damped the flames down somewhat and I was able to use the extinguishers to good effect. I shouted to the girls to throw me some more as mine ran out then told them to keep the hose playing on me as well as the fire. My clothing was steaming with the heat and I felt as if I was being boiled alive. Slowly we got the fire under control and I was able to make my way to the cabin behind the bridge. There was no sign of Steve and I feared the worst. With the fire more or less out and the smoke and steam clearing I was able to move into the galley which was obviously where the fire started. Everywhere was either charred wood or melted and twisted plastic. The deck was unsafe and had nearly burned through in places. A propane gas bottle was lying on its side and half buried in the bulkhead. It appeared to have exploded and shot across the galley. The opposite bulkhead had a hole about three feet across and was open to the sea. Fortunately it was above the waterline otherwise the boat would have sunk before we got there. Searching the whole cruiser I found no trace of Steve and could only assume he‟d either jumped or been blown overboard. I couldn‟t imagine he would have jumped and left Elena to fend for herself. Marie played the searchlight onto the surrounding ocean but there was nothing to be seen. I didn‟t even want to think of the sharks that were probably around us. Hopefully they‟d have been frightened off by the explosion. We got Elena down into the saloon and fed her a good tot of rum. She was distraught and kept trying to get back on deck. Marie held her close, stroked her face and spoke softly to her unti l she calmed down. We fed her more rum then tucked her up in the spare bunk, staying with her until she fell into a troubled sleep. We went back on deck and stood surveying Steve‟s boat. It was still giving off whiffs of steam as the ruins of the cabin cooled. I jumped back aboard with a torch and searched end to end but could find no trace of Steve. Once back on Voyager I told Marie that he‟d disappeared and chances were we‟d lost another good friend. Marie became even more upset and tears rolled down her cheeks. I hugged her to me and felt myself welling up and a lump forming in my throat. We walked to the stern of Voyager and sat on one of the loungers that were bolted to the deck. With our arms about each other we reminisced about past adventures we‟d had with Steve then fell silent, lost in our own thoughts. We both shot up with a start as a faint voice called “Help.” I looked wildly around. “Where the heck did that come from?” I queried. We went to the rail but could see nothing. I called out “Steve is that you mate?” The only reply was a groan and a faint splashing which could have been the water sloshing about between the boats. I rushed to the wheelhouse, got the big torch and ran back to the stern. I shone it down into the water but could see nothing. I played the light on the hull of Steve‟s boat working my way to the stern and that‟s where we spotted him. He was clinging to the rudder of his boat but was to far gone to lift himself up. Without thinking of sharks I grabbed a rope, dived over the rail, swam to him and tied the rope under his arms. “Ok Mate, let go, I‟ve got you.” I said. In the meantime Marie lowered our ladder. I supported Steve as best I could but he was a big lad and it was a struggle to get him to the ladder. Marie helped me to lift him onto the deck. After a short rest we carried him to the cabin, stripped him carefully of what remained of his clothing which wasn‟t much and some of which was stuck to him. He was badly burned on his face and arms and his legs were lacerated with multiple cuts and scrapes. Marie gently bathed him in warm water and treated his cuts which were small but there were many of them. His face was swollen and his arms were badly blistered. We decided to leave his burns untreated for the time being my reasoning being that the cold salt water was the best treatment he could have got as a first resort. I vaguely remember reading about fighter pilots, who were burned and bailed out over the English Channel during the war, recovered faster than those who landed on land. It was something to do with the properties of salt water or maybe the cold. In any case we had nothing on board to treat burns as extensive as these. Once Steve was made as comfortable as possible we checked on Elena who was still sleeping soundly then went into the wheelhouse to decide what to do. As Elena had sent out a distress call we decided to try and contact anyone listening to apprise them of the situation. The military base at Manta on the coast of Ecuador came in loud and clear to say that a seaplane would be dispatched at first light to ferry Steve to the hospital there. I gave them our position and assured them the boat was seaworthy and the fire out. We were both worn out from the adrenaline rush of the past few hours so I suggested Marie try and get some sleep. She tried to argue but I told her that I was still on a high and wouldn‟t sleep anyway. Reluctantly she went to the saloon and stretched out on the settee. Within minutes she was dead to the world. I went on deck and shone the searchlight on Steve‟s boat. The steam and smoke had entirely disappeared so I was fairly confident that she wouldn‟t suddenly burst into flames again. All I could do now was to wait for daylight and the seaplane. I shivered, which was when I remembered I‟d not long ago jumped fully dressed into the ocean and was still rather damp. I scanned the surrounding area and the horizon to make sure we were not in any danger of being run down but we seemed to have the ocean to ourselves. I went below and changed into some dry clothing then resumed my watch, fortified by a thick, hot, mug of chocolate. I awoke with a start and cursed myself for falling asleep. It was broad daylight. I scrambled to my feet and had a look round, thankfully we were still alone. The ocean was as still as a millpond. I went below to check on Steve and Elena but Marie had beaten me to it and she and Elena were talking quietly. Elena seemed to have recovered somewhat from her ordeal; the more so now she knew Steve was alive. Marie said “Morning lover, you‟re awake then.” I was a bit embarrassed but she passed it off by saying “I‟ve been up for a while and everything was OK so let you sleep on.” I sat on the bed and asked Elena how she felt. She said she was OK and embarrassed me even further by putting an arm around me and plonking a big kiss on my cheek. “That‟s for rescuing my Steve last night.” I looked at Marie but she was grinning like a Cheshire cat. “I do believe you‟ve gone all red.” she said with a giggle. “I‟ll talk to you later madam.” I said with mock severity and left them to it. I looked in on Steve but he was still asleep. His face and arms were puffed up like balloons and he was hardly recognisable. He was going to be in some pain and there was not a lot we could do. Our painkillers would be nowhere near strong enough. Chapter 32 Back on deck the drone of an aircraft broke the silence. I couldn‟t see it as it was coming out of the sun but suddenly an old Catalina whooshed over us before making a turn, settling on the water and taxiing until it was almost alongside A door opened in the side and a man in military uniform shouted across to us in impeccable English “Can you pick me up?” I raised a thumb. Calling to Marie for help we launched the dory and I puttered across to the aircraft. Within a few minutes we were back, the medico carrying a bag with him. Once aboard he wasted no time in going below to check Steve and Elena over. He said that we‟d have to get Steve to a hospital as soon as possible. It was going to be almost impossible to move him without causing him considerable pain so the medico injected him with morphine once he‟d found a spot that wasn‟t burned. It was with difficulty that we managed to transfer Steve to the aircraft. Elena insisted on going with him. The medico agreed as he wanted her checked out for smoke inhalation damage. Presumably he didn‟t think Marie and I were smoke damaged. I might have argued but was more concerned that Steve was attended too. We watched as the aircraft took off and disappeared eastward toward Manta. Alone again I told Marie I was going to see if I could get Steve‟s boat going. “Until you‟ve had some breakfast you‟re not going anywhere mister.” Marie said. I looked at my watch, it was midmorning and I suddenly realised I was very hungry. Marie rustled up some eggs and toast which we ate followed by a big mug of tea for her and coffee for me. Afterwards I was able to concentrate on Steve‟s boat. Fortunately the wheelhouse was intact although a bit smoke blackened. The rudder and throttle controls appeared undamaged which was a relief. I made my way to the engine room. The fire hadn‟t reached that far so everything was fine but there was an ominous sound of rushing water as the boat rocked gently to the ocean‟s movement. I crossed my fingers and pressed the bilge pump starter. The pump whined into life. Water was gushing into the sea so at least the pump was working. I went below again and measured the depth of water. An hour later I check the depth again and was relieved to find that it was dropping. I went back to the wheelhouse and pressed the starter, nothing happened. I returned to the engine room and tried to start them from there. They burst into life. I figured the power line from the wheelhouse to the engine room must have burned through, probably where it passed through the galley. I shut the engines down and went back into the galley. I had to rig up a light as the power was out and the only light was from the hole in the side. I set about throwing overboard everything that was not salvageable. With difficulty I managed to free the gas cylinder from where it had buried itself. Fortunately it had not breached the hull so I turned my attention to the hole in the side. With help from Marie we were able to patch it with canvas and some wood we found in the cable locker. A coat of paint helped make it waterproof and, if the weather was kind, should keep out the sea until we made harbour. I checked the bilges again and they were near enough dry. I shut off the pump and went back aboard Voyager. Marie was preparing dinner and the aroma coming from the galley set my stomach rumbling. I had a stand-up all over wash in our little shower cubicle, put on clean shirt and shorts and went to the wheelhouse to lay off a course to Manta. It was about 500 miles away so all being well it would only take us about a day and a half to get there. We took it in turns to get some sleep although it was difficult in the tropical heat. My plan was that I would lead in Steve‟s boat and Marie would follow in ours as she was used to it. I would try varying speeds to ensure the patch in the side would hold. It should be OK as most of it was above the waterline. The ocean was empty of shipping, not even the odd fishing boat to bother us. The sea was like glass and the barometer was steady. We raised the seaplane base and asked if there was any news of Steve‟s condition. We were told that he was „comfortable‟ in hospital. Setting off in the evening I worked up to about 20 knots and all seemed well. Marie increased the speed of Voyager to keep up. We eventually settled on 25 knots. It took us nearly three days to reach Manta by which time we were absolutely exhausted. We‟d kept going by dosing ourselves with Benzedrine I‟d found on Steve‟s boat. I didn‟t think it wise to stop as the shipping was becoming more frequent and we didn‟t want to be run down because of some sleepy lookout. It was with relief we tied up in port. A phone call reported no change in Steve‟s condition so we went straight to bed and slept for twelve solid hours, waking only to go to the toilet. When we felt more human we had a good meal then set about finding where Steve‟s was. The hospital was modern, well equipped and the corridors and wards spotless, light and airy. An orderly escorted us to Steve‟s private room. We could hardly see him for bandages. Elena was sitting beside him looking worn out. Apparently she‟d refused to leave his side and dozed in a chair beside his bed. She looked up as we entered. Marie went to her and put her arms around her as she burst into tears. I guessed the whole episode was finally getting to her and the sight of friendly faces was too much for her. We persuaded Elena to get some sleep even though she didn‟t want to leave. Marie saw her to her hotel and stayed with her until she fell into an exhausted sleep. I stayed with Steve, talking to him even though he was still in a drug induced sleep to save him from the pain of his burns. In the meantime Marie had booked us into the same hotel so that Elena would have us to take turns sitting with Steve. Marie and I were having a leisurely breakfast when the phone rang. It was a hysterical Elena crying down the phone and not making any sense. We dropped everything and raced to the hospital. A young doctor met us at the entrance and led us to a side room. Elena was there crying inconsolably. The doctor, who spoke good English, said “I‟m afraid Mr. Charlton has taken a turn for the worse. We‟re doing everything we can to save him but its touch and go. We think it‟s a combination of smoke inhalation, and his burns. He is also in the first stages of Pneumonia from the sea water in his lungs. We‟ve given him antibiotics and oxygen and are keeping him sedated. All we can do now is let nature take its course.” I found this new turn of events difficult too come to terms with. Marie was white faced and red eyed as she tried to comfort Elena. I went to them and we had a group hug, clinging to each other. The young doctor left us, quietly closing the door behind her. Over the following week we took it in turns to stay with Steve, talking to him and encouraging him to, „Hang in there,‟ as his fever raged. At one stage we thought we‟d lost him but the medical team managed to stabilize him again. The crisis passed and we resumed our vigil. On the eighth day a teary Elena called us from his bedside to say Steve‟s fever had broken and that he had at one stage squeezed her hand. As time passed Steve became stronger and his burns gradually healed. The doctors were able to reduce the painkilling drugs until Steve was able to talk to us without falling asleep. But we were in for another shock. Marie and I had gone to the hospital to take over from Elena. We found them holding hands, both with silly grins on their faces. Elena announced she was pregnant, about three months she figured. We were delighted for them. I thought if anything would speed Steve‟s recovery Elena‟s news would. Naturally Marie took over the role of mother hen, making sure that Elena ate and drank properly and got the right amount of sleep etc. Back in the real world there was the problem of what to do about Steve‟s boat. Marie and I considered that if the worst had happened Elena should have the last say on what to do about it. Obviously it was going to be a long time before Steve was fit enough to take up the reins again. As far as I knew Steve had no living relatives, he‟d never mentioned any to me. Chapter 33 Marie and I were in a quandary. We didn‟t want to leave Elena alone to bear the weight of nursing Steve back to health which could take months, especially in her condition but we also wanted to continue our own voyage. To our surprise and relief Elena‟s father and brother flew in from San Diego too help out and discuss Steve and Elena‟s future, not forgetting the soon to arrive baby. It was decided that they, Steve and Elena, would, when Steve was recovered enough, fly to San Diego for his convalescence. I had a long talk with her dad and much to my relief, after looking over the boat said that If Steve agreed he would take responsibility for its sale or transportation to San Diego. I found Steve‟s stash of gems, in the fridge of all places, and handed them over to Elena. They‟d ensure that Elena wanted for nothing even though her family was well off. As her dad explained, Elena was her own woman and proud of her independence. When he was well enough, Steve told me about the accident. It happened when Steve went to change one of the gas bottles in the galley. It could only be assumed the valve on the fresh bottle was faulty and leaked gas into the space next to the stove, exploding into a fireball when Steve went to light the oven. We would never know for sure. Within a week we had bid a tearful goodbye to Elena and family, making them promise to let us know how they were keeping and to let us know when the baby was born. “Oh I see,” moaned Steve “Not worried about poor old me then.” “Better get used to it „Daddy‟” I emphasized “You‟ve been relegated.” We shook hands and hugged with much back slapping, gave hugs and kisses to Elena with a stroke of her emerging bump for luck and left them on the steps of the hotel. We moved back aboard Voyager and made preparations for our departure. We decided we would try and put the previous traumatic weeks behind us and continue with our original plan to visit the Galapagos Islands. As we lay in bed that night, for the first time since we‟d started travelling again I felt the need to settle down for a while. I reached over until I could take Marie‟s hand, lifted it to my lips and kissed it. Marie turned toward me and, as if reading my mind whispered “What‟s up my love?” I told her of my thoughts. She removed her hand from mine and stroked my face. “We‟ve not had the happiest time have we what with one thing and another” she said. “It certainly wasn‟t what we‟d planned originally was it?” I sighed. “Two lovers sailing off into the sunset too live happily ever-after.” I rolled over until we were face to face; I drew her to me and could feel the heat of her body against mine. I cupped her face in my hands and kissed her lovely lips, she opened her mouth and our tongues probed each other. Her nipples hardened against my chest and I hardening against her. I cupped her breasts, stroking her nipples and running my nails gently around them. She groaned and pressed herself against me, reaching for me. She drew her leg up and over me rubbing my stiffness against her own moistness. I couldn‟t stop from moving against her hand as she teased me by rubbing the tip of my penis against her and allowing me to enter her only a little at a time then drawing away from me with a smile on her glistening lips. I could stand it no longer and gripping her buttocks pulled her firmly onto me penetrating as far as I could. We both gasped as we pushed against each other trying to exert as much pleasure as we could. I stopped for a moment as I felt myself reaching my climax. I wanted to prolong the ecstasy as long as possible. Marie was quivering against me aware of my state her breathing coming in short gasps. I groaned as I could contain myself no longer and drove frantically into her, Marie matching my lunges unti l, my head filled with bursting stars, I came again and again. Our eyes met, hers dark and smoky with unfulfilled passion. I kept moving although I was spent until my beautiful Marie reached her orgasm shuddering against me, her nai ls digging into my back and her teeth nipping my throat. We collapsed with mutual sighs as passion faded and we lay locked together. We didn‟t move for several minutes except for some mutual stroking and kissing. As we finally parted Marie reached down to caress my now flagging member. I lay there as she stroked me and I could see by the look she gave me that we had not yet finished. I ran my hands down her body until I could feel the wetness between her legs. I gently massaged her at the same time kissing her breasts and nipples. Marie moved over until she was above me and kissed and licked me until I could feel myself rising again. How this woman worked her magic on me I don‟t know, all I know is that I was ready for her again. My hands and fingers were still busy and I could feel her starting to breathe more quickly. She knelt above me and slowly lowered herself onto me moving up and down and rotating her hips. It was my turn to run my nails up and down her back which seemed to drive her faster onto me. Her hips ground against mine and she moved back and forth throwing her head back as with a strangled scream she came. I could feel her hot juice which was the tipping point for my own explosive release. Marie collapsed onto me then rolled to one side until she was lying beside me. “Oh god, I needed that” she murmured “That makes two of us darling.” I replied We lay there holding hands until we fell asleep not moving until the sun crept through the skylight. Chapter 34 As we sat in the warm sunshine eating breakfast I told Marie what I felt like doing. She gave it some thought and said “What about Mum & Dad and the property etc?” I told her that I would get in touch with our tame lawyer, tell him of our plans and give him power of attorney to use our bank account as he thought fit . Hopefully there would be some cash available if and when we returned and if not, we still had the gems. “But we‟ll only do it if you have no reservations my sweet; after all it is a big step.” Marie, without hesitation agreed with my plan so I went ashore to get in touch with our solicitor Mr. James. The phone line was a bit crackly but I was able to impart the gist of our plan to him. I assured him a letter would follow so he‟d have it in writing, signed both by myself and Marie, both signatures to be witnessed by the local bank manager. He wished us well but saying he thought we were both mad, before hanging up. A letter was formulated, our signatures witnessed and the letter posted. “Well we‟ve burned our bridges now.“ I commented. Marie just smiled and hugged my arm. We made preparations for the voyage purchasing extra fuel and items which we might find useful when we arrived at our destination. The following morning, with the early sun warming our backs, we left harbour and steered westward toward the Galapagos Islands. A few days later we were sailing slowly past the largest of the island group marvelling at the abundance of sea birds and land mammals. We spotted groups of lizards basking in the sunshine and were lucky enough to spot a giant tortoise. We anchored and motored ashore in our little dory. The lizards were unfazed by our presence and ignored us unless we got to close then they would leisurely put some distance between us. Even the sea birds were unafraid and wouldn‟t move away as we approached. The giant tortoise behaved as if we weren‟t there and looked even bigger close up. We took pictures that, maybe, would one day be processed to remind us of our travels then puttered back to Voyager, hauling the dory aboard before having a meal and some sleep. I woke to the drumming of rain on the deck overhead. Looking through the skylight I could see it was just an isolated shower passing by. Dawn had broken, although it would be some time before the sun appeared. Marie was already up and rattling the plates in the galley as she prepared our breakfast. It wasn‟t long before I was trying to get outside of a plateful of bacon, eggs and fried tomatoes all piled on a couple of rounds of fried bread. A pot of tea to finish off and I felt ready to take on the world. A soft kiss from Marie was the finishing touch. I went into the wheelhouse to look out the charts for the area we were heading for. Whilst aboard the aircraft carrier that had rescued us previously, I‟d made notes to try and pinpoint „Our Island‟ but they were nothing more than a semi-educated guess as the island was not marked on any chart I‟d studied. I hated to admit it but it was going to be a big gamble on our part . We up anchored and sailed north-westward. The weather was splendid so it wasn‟t long before we dispensed with clothing as we sailed under a cloudless sky topping up our tan as we went. Marie, as usual, soon turned a golden brown and her hair bleached to a golden halo. My hair was already turning from mousey to blond and I was even managing to get a semblance of a tan without turning red and peeling. We would stop Voyager occasionally and take turns to dive in and cool off. Watching Marie emulating a mermaid I found the ultimate turn-on which Marie took full advantage of by teasing me mercilessly knowing full well how it would end. We made love with abandon, anywhere and everywhere. The cares and disasters of the past were put behind us. Our world was now just we two and the empty ocean under a tropical sun. I lay on the Lilo on deck; eyes closed for the most part thinking of nothing in particular and hearing now and again the splash of Marie as she had fun in the sea. Next thing I knew I was soaking wet. Marie had got a bucket of water and thrown it over me. “That‟ll dampen your ardour.” she giggled, evading my reaching hand. I jumped up and chased her toward the stern ladder that led down to the sea. Voyager was stopped so there was no danger from the propellers. She waited until I had nearly reached her then arched her back and did a reverse dive into the ocean. Seeing her naked form shimmering below the surface had its usual effect on me. She arose from the depths like a pocket Venus and swam to the ladder. I was sat on the top waiting for her to climb the ladder. The water streamed from her body creating rivulets between her breasts and running down her belly to disappear between her legs. As she came level with the top step I reached down to smooth the hair from her eyes.. She placed a finger on the end of my erection rubbing the little jewel that had formed there on and around it. Before I could react Marie had quickly taken me in her mouth and was working her magic. I half rose gripping her head and moving with her. She stopped and let me go by which time I was quivering with passion. She put her arms around my neck and I thought she was going to start on me again. Instead she leaned back with a wicked grin and pulled me off balance sending me plummeting over her head and into the ocean. I rose spluttering to the surface to find that Marie was now standing on the top step of the ladder laughing at me. I climbed the ladder until my head was level with her thighs. “My turn now methinks missy.” I growled and licked the salty water from her thighs. She parted her legs and let my tongue explore the soft velvet of her sex. My tongue and fingers were massaging her until I could feel the hot moistness of her juices and her legs beginning to shake. I stopped and looked into her dark and smoky eyes. I put my head back between her legs and gripped her buttocks. With a heave I tossed her over my head and with a shriek she disappeared into the ocean. “You bugger,” she spluttered as she reappeared “I was just about to come then.” “I know that feeling.” I said with a grin. I helped her back aboard and as she stood there I slicked the water from her body with my hands. I paid particular attention to her gorgeous breasts smoothing them until her nipples arose firm and inviting. I laid her on the Lilo and knelt over her. She reached up and drew my head down. We kissed long and deeply. I kissed her breasts and nipples until she lifted her legs and clamped them around me forcing me to enter her. The heat of her was more than I could bear and I drove as hard as I could before spending myself. I kept going until with a shudder and a moan Marie gripped my buttocks driving against me until she collapsed with a sigh. We lay, still joined, until our shudders abated. Our lips locked together as if we‟d never part our bodies moving together in our final spasms. The days passed with little to disturb us. No ships were spotted, our only company the occasional schools of dolphin that would race us for hours on end stopping to circle us when we stopped for a swim then they would surround us, rubbing against us and allowing us to hold on to their dorsal fin giving us a tow. They would disappear as quickly as they came. We were lucky with the weather, running through the odd rain squall which gave us the opportunity to wash the salt from our bodies without using our precious fresh water supply. Eventually the peaks of Hawaiian Islands showed above the horizon all crowned with clouds either natural or created by the active volcanoes. Our destination was Oahu. I wanted to go there and visit the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor and pay my respects to the sailors who had died there. It was a place I‟d always wanted to visit having read so much about its momentous history. Our visit after our previous rescue had left us no time for sightseeing before we were shipped back to the UK. Marie wasn‟t so keen unti l I promised that we would go to Waikiki beach and also sample the delights of Pearl City. Having moored in the small boat harbour we first made sure they our fuel and water tanks were replenished and the engines serviced. By the time this was done we were so tired, having not had a decent sleep since leaving Manta, that all we wanted was to go to bed and sleep the clock round. The next week went by in a whirl of sightseeing and we were glad to get back to Voyager‟s comparative peace. Chapter 35 With everything shipshape we set sail once again on what could be the most difficult part of our journey. I had only the vaguest of ideas where „Our‟ Island was. I did know what our position had been when the storm struck but didn‟t know how far we‟d been blown before waking up on the island. All I was sure of was that it was south and east of our last known position. The days passed and the weather remained calm. We both took on a deeper tan all over, i f that was possible, only wearing any sort of clothing in the proximity of passing ships and they were few and far between. As we approached the area where I thought the island might be I kept an eye on the radar but nothing showed on the screen except the odd rain squall. About a month after leaving Hawaii, as the evening sun sank toward the horizon I thought I spotted a promising looking cloud formation low on the horizon to the east. The radar was still clear but then we were low down in the water so its range wasn‟t great. We headed in the direction of the cloud but darkness overtook us and there was nothing to see as the velvet night surrounded us. We stood together on the fore deck Marie leaning against me as we admired the stars shining brightly overhead. The only sounds were the throbbing of the engines and the rustle of the ocean as it passed under our bows. Astern we left a long phosphorescent trail as it boiled from under our stern. Marie woke me with a cup of coffee as daybreak lightened the sky. I dressed in shorts and a t-shirt and made my way to the wheelhouse. Marie turned in to catch some sleep. I trained my binoculars around the horizon finally settling on a promising smudge which might have been an island almost dead ahead. I increased speed until the island became more clearly defined. Marie joined me later. By lunchtime the shoreline was clearly visible. Unfortunately it also became clear this was not our island. Hiding my disappointment I said to Marie “Ah well, we‟ll soldier on.” We curved our way around it unti l it faded into the slight sea mist behind us. By teatime we were alone on the ocean again. The sea mist was getting thicker and turning more fog-like. I donned a jacket against the chill. Marie was preparing our dinner and the smell of cooking wafted up to assail my nostri ls. Soon I was called to dinner and with a last glance at the radar I eased back on our speed set the autopilot and went below. After a splendid meal of steak, roast potatoes and peas I went on deck again to find the mist had definitely turned into a thick fog. I hastily checked the radar but the screen was clear. To be on the safe side I left Voyager idling along on autopilot and settled down in a corner of the wheelhouse with a book. I woke with a start looking round guilti ly in case Marie caught me out sleeping on watch. I looked at my watch and was surprised to find I‟d slept for over an hour. The radar was showing a smudge almost directly ahead of us. I moved the throttles to idle, and disengaged the autopilot. I went out on deck and strained my ears for any sounds. There was a faint rumbling ahead but how far was difficult to ascertain as the fog distorted everything. I called down to Marie to come up “What‟s up my love?” she asked. “Can you hear what I hear?” “Sounds like surf.” she said “That‟s what I thought. I think we should stop here until the morning otherwise we could finish up like last time.” The night passed slowly and the fog persisted. Sunrise was heralded by a lightening of the fog and, as the sun‟s heat made itself felt, it was as if a curtain was drawn. The fog was burned off and an island was revealed no more than a mile away. We increased speed and headed toward it. As we approached I felt sure this was „Our‟ island although we‟d not had a good look at it from this aspect before. As we slowly circled the island I became certain of it as certain features became visible. We picked out the gap in the reef through which the naval boat had come to rescue us. Through the binoculars we saw the scar on the shore leading to where we found the crashed aircraft. Marie was grinning like a Cheshire cat as we hugged and jumped about excitedly. Now of course we had to find a passage through the reef deep enough to accommodate Voyager. We slowly circled the island getting as close as we dared taking soundings at likely looking places. The only place we found was the gap the navy had used. It was risky as we would barely clear the treacherous coral and then only at high tide. We spent the next day gauging the tides and taking soundings until we were as sure as we could be when it would be safest to attempt crossing the reef. Finally I said to Marie “It‟s now or never sweetheart.” and asked her to go onto the bow and guide us through. She went forward and I turned Voyager until we were pointing directly at the gap. I would have to gauge it so that we went over on the crest of the swell to give as much clearance as possible. We inched slowly forward with Marie giving me directions. As the swell lifted us I opened the throttles, shut my eyes and hoped for the best, knowing that if I got it wrong we‟d be stuck here….. again. I felt Voyager give a shudder but there was no ominous scraping as we cleared the reef. I quickly stopped and reversed engines to stop us piling up on the shore. Marie dropped the anchor and I stopped the engines. The sudden silence took us both by surprise. I went forward and put my arms around Marie and hugged her to me. We launched the dinghy and motored to the shallows and splashed ashore. The first thing I did was to gather handfuls of the fine black sand and throw them into the air watching as they dissipated like little black clouds. I picked up Marie and swung her round and round before putting her down and kissing her with all the passion and tenderness I could muster. “Home again.” I whispered and nibbled her ear. It was fortunate that „Our‟ cave was quite near so moving supplies and bedding into it would not be much of a chore if we decided not to live on board Voyager. As we explored, we found that the island was much as we‟d left it. The remains of Ariadne were still there although bleached by the sun and salt. The freshwater pool and waterfall we immediately made use of to bathe and wash away the weeks of accumulated salt without having to watch how much water we used. Finally, in the green glade dappled with sunlight we made love, our cries of ecstasy disturbing nothing. The setting sun was turning the sea to burnished gold as I sat on a rock listening to the soft sounds of the sea lapping the shore and watching Marie as she meandered along the shoreline, bending occasionally to inspect something she‟d discovered, her soft curls falling across her beautiful face. I felt, for the first time in a long whi le, a sense of complete contentment. I sighed at the thought. Marie lifted her face toward me, smiled, and made her way to my side. We sat arms around each other as the light faded and the stars appeared in all their glory. We felt that we were truly home at last………. On the horizon lightning flickered and thunder could be faintly heard. Epilogue A gleaming white yacht anchored outside the reef, sails flapping in the breeze. A small boat left its side puttered its way through the gap in the coral reef to ground on the shore. A young couple started waded ashore, splashing each other until one was picked up to be dumped squealing under the water by the other who then followed. They surfaced laughing and sputtering to then throw themselves side by side upon the black sandy shore. Much later they rose and began to explore the shoreline, chattering excitedly to each other at each new discovery. The bones of a ship lay scattered on the shore, probably as the result of a storm sometime in the past. The only clue to its name was the faded letters AR on one piece of wood and an E on another some distance away. They wondered if there might be some poor shipwrecked souls still on the island but no trace of human inhabitation was discovered. There were some rusty tins that had been buried but uncovered again, possibly by the same storm but other than that the island was deserted. After a few days the couple returned to their yacht, up anchored set their sails and moved away. A sea mist arose shrouding the island until only the volcano‟s peak was visible then, as night fell, even that faded from view. The End? This book was distributed courtesy of: For your own Unlimited Reading and FREE eBooks today, visit: http://www.Free-eBooks.net Share this eBook with anyone and everyone automatically by selecting any of the options below: To show your appreciation to the author and help others have wonderful reading experiences and find helpful information too, we'd be very grateful if you'd kindly post your comments for this book here. COPYRIGHT INFORMATION Free-eBooks.net respects the intellectual property of others. When a book's copyright owner submits their work to Free-eBooks.net, they are granting us permission to distribute such material. Unless otherwise stated in this book, this permission is not passed onto others. As such, redistributing this book without the copyright owner's permission can constitute copyright infringement. If you believe that your work has been used in a manner that constitutes copyright infringement, please follow our Notice and Procedure for Making Claims of Copyright Infringement as seen in our Terms of Service here: http://www.free-ebooks.net/tos.html
Posts
