Chapter 20

Three days past and still the police could not talk to Michael. When he was conscious; he would stare into nothingness. After two more days with the officers trying to force food and water into Michael, they brought in a woman doctor. Her name was Dr. Katerina Meracles. In addition to being a medical doctor, she was also a psychiatrist. As she entered the holding cell, she motioned to one of the guards to get her a basin of water, a towel and also some clean clothes.

Michael lay motionless on a small bed. Soon she was wiping his face with the damp towel. The guard helped her remove Michael's soiled clothing and placed clean ones on him. She questioned the guard why this had not taken place before; the guard replied the man had been too violent. The guard attempted to put a shirt on Michael but he began to struggle; so the doctor motioned for the guard to stop. Katerina Meracles then told the guard to leave and when he refused she ordered him to. The guard shook his head stating he would be in the next room.

Michael stared up at Katerina; she continued to stroke his face with the damp towel. She rolled Michael over and placed clean bedding on the small bed. Then she spoke softly to him. "I am here to help you - I think you are very sick. Will you try and talk to me - I speak many languages, French, German, English."

Michael continued to just stare at the woman, acknowledging nothing. He was unaware of his surroundings; only that there was a beautiful, older woman attending to him. Katerina spent an hour in the holding cell with Michael but he never spoke. She got up and called for the guard, then walked into the police captain's office.

" Well, what do you think?" questioned the captain.

" He is suffering from blackouts and has been hallucinating. He needs to be taken to the hospital."

" We have a woman who is pressing charges - he was molesting her."

" I read the report - and the comments from passerbys. He was calling out a name - like he thought she was someone he knew."

" Yes, true but she is still filing a complaint."

" Very well but he needs to be taken to the hospital - now!"

" Under your directions but he is being placed under your care and responsibility."

" Yes, fine. Now get him ready and no straightjacket."

" He is a fighter....that's how he came in and....."

" He can't even move, he will go out on a stretcher. I'm calling for a transfer ambulance."

Dr. Meracles sat with Michael in the ambulance as they drove into the entrance of the hospital. Once inside Michael was placed in a special ward on the direction of the doctor. Michael lay on the hospital bed in a dazed state; responding to nothing. He was being fed by intravenous feeding and after two days past, began to respond to the nourishment.

Dr. Meracles sat by his side and spoke softly, "Do you remember your name?"

Michael looked at her intently and opened his mouth, "My name?"

Katerina smiled and stroked his cheek. " Yes, would you like to tell me what your name is?"

" I think....I...maybe it's....." He paused. ".. ..Michael."

" Your name is Michael?"

" Yes."

" Well Michael, you have been very ill."

" Where am I?"

" A hospital...In Saloniki, Greece. I'm a doctor here to help you."

" Why?"

Katerina smiled. " That's what I do."

" Why help me - you don't know me. What's happened to me?"

" A doctor helps people Michael and as to what happened to you - I don't know - you've been in and out of consciousness for many days. There was an incident on the street with a woman - do you remember that?"

" No."

" Is there anything you can remember that you would like to tell me?"

" Headaches - I have headaches."

" Do you have a headache now?"

" Yes."

" I'm going to order a catscan to have a look inside your head and then I will prescribe something for the pain. But right now I don't want to give you drugs that might harm your condition."

" Where am I?"

" I told you - Saloniki, Greece - a hospital."

" Oh."

At that moment Dr. Meracle's pager went off; she checked it and spoke softly to Michael, "I have to go for awhile but will be back to check on you later."

Michael stared at her blankly. She went back to her office and picked up the telephone, "Yes Nikos, you wanted to talk to me."

Dr. Nikos Agilo, the head of medical staff of Salonika Hellas Hospital spoke authoritatively to Katerina Meracles, "Come to my office now."

Dr. Meracles had recently been transferred from Athens and taken up the post of resident practitioner and psychiatrist at Salonika Hospital. She had requested the transfer after her husband of twenty-five years had decided to leave her for a young university student. Katerina had blamed herself for the breakup of their marriage, feeling she spent too much time at her work and not encouraging her husband with his business pursuits. Her husband had an extremely successful shipping business that required him to travel a lot. The divorce settlement had been a villa for Katerina on the island of Mykonos.

She loved the island but her work prohibited visiting the villa except for brief and infrequent days off. Although Katerina would turn 50 years old in a few months, she looked to be only in her late thirties. She had striking facial features and light auburn hair that ran down her back in curls. Her figure was athletic and she carried herself like a model. Katerina had met and married her husband when they were both at university. He was studying business commerce and she medicine. He had always joked that he really didn't need to go to university as his family's wealth in the shipping business would be there when he needed it.

She had fallen for him instantly and married quickly. They had both decided children were not a priority in their lives.

Katerina entered Dr. Agilo's office and sat. "What was it you wanted - I was with a patient."

" Yes, I was wondering about that patient - his name is not known and the police had him in custody. Why did you want him brought here?"

" He is suffering from hallucinations and blackouts, he shouldn't be kept in a jail cell."

" Always looking out for the helpless Katerina, I would have thought you might have gotten a little tougher."

" What are you talking about - the man needs help."

" You were the same years ago at the university - always looking out for the downtrodden. Look, I want a quick diagnosis on this man then get him out of here."

" What! I don't understand."

" The police called, apparently the Americans want him."

" The Americans.... who...."

" The CIA."

" No, never - what on earth......."

Agilo shoved a photo of Michael at Katerina. " Deal with him quickly and let's get him released. I don't want any political controversy happening."

" He's a patient - like anyone else."

" Uhhhh, are you letting your heart dictate your feelings?"

" I have no idea what you are talking about."

" He's a good looking man Katerina, let's not have that influencing your actions."

" I resent your insinuations! I'm his doctor!"

" You are spending an inordinate amount of time with him. Why?"

" I'm trying for find out what's wrong with him!"

" Deal with him quickly and discharge him!"

Katerina got up and quickly left the office. She returned to the ward where Michael was. Upon arriving there, nurses and orderlies were racing about. "What's happened!" shouted Katerina.

An orderly stopped briefly, "The patient from the jail cells, he escaped from the hospital - just got up and walked out!"

Katerina walked to a window overlooking the hospital courtyard and looked off towards the city. "Where are you Michael? You know don't you - that people are hunting you."She return to her office and sat at her desk.

Agilo was correct about one thing. She was letting her feelings get in the way of her medicine. Why was this man causing her to act the way she had? What was it about him? She smiled to herself. Yes, he was very handsome, rugged with a very athletic body. Oh my God, what am I thinking. I haven't had these thoughts since I was a student!

Three days past: Michael was still roaming the streets of Salonikia, hiding in dark corners and sneaking food from the back of restaurants. He was still dazed and suffering short blackouts. On the night of the fourth day, he slipped into a rear entrance of a hotel. Once inside he made his way to a staff room located on the second floor. He sat in a corner of the room and grabbed a bottle of water and drank. Just then a woman entered; she smiled and spoke in Greek.

Michael shook his head and whispered, "I'm sorry, I don't speak your language." She stared intently at Michael, "You speak English."

"Yes," he replied. She walked up to him. "Do you want to try some of this - it's good weed." The woman handed Michael a joint of marijuana; he took it and inhaled deeply. " My name is Joannina - how long have you worked here - I haven't seen you before?"

" Yes, well - I'm new."

Joannina smiled at Michael. "You know, my job here really sucks but meeting good looking men like you makes it better. Where are you from?"

" From?"

" What country?"

" Different countries."

" What's your name?"

" Michael."

" Say Michael - seeing you and I are on a break, do you want to....you know...get it on?"

" What - I don't know - I'm kind of messed up...."

" Yeah, looks like you've been sleeping on the streets or something." She laughed. " I don't care. Look, I've got condoms and I'm...well you turn me on."

Suddenly Joannina leapt at Michael. She began ripping at his clothes. He pushed her away.

When Michael didn't reciprocate with her advances, she yelled at him, "What the hell's your problem - can't you get it up!"

Michael staggered away. "I can't do this - I don't have sex with women I don't know!"

" Oh, I see - just upscale women huh! Well piss off then - you just can't get it up! All looks and no power below! Get the hell out of here!" Michael grabbed the remains of his shirt and raced out of the hotel.

On the fifth day, Michael had managed to stay at a church hostel and was able to clean himself up. As he walked the streets in daylight, an off-duty constable recalled viewing a wanted picture and spotted Michael. He called in immediately and soon half a dozen officers descended on Michael and dragged him off to the police station. When Katerina Meracles received the call he had been apprehended, she once again had Michael brought to the hospital. Only this time he was held in restraints on the bed, an armed guard posted outside the room. Katerina told the other medical staff to leave the room. She leaned over Michael, looking into his grey/green eyes. The eyes held her captive.

"Michael the authorities were here looking for you - I mean the CIA from America. They said you were a terrorist. They will be coming back for you tomorrow. Please talk to me."

Michael stared intently at Katerina, sensing her compassion. He opened his mouth to speak but started coughing. Katerina lifted him gently by the shoulders and gave him some water.

Michael looked helplessly at her, "I am no terrorist ... I did work for a government once ...an agent ... but no more. Please, please .... you must help me."

"I don't know what I can do."

" Help me escape again."

" You can't hide - there is no place they will not find you."

" Please......"

Katerina looked frantically about the room, then leaned over Michael. "I will try."

Michael whispered, "Please undo the restraints."

Katerina undid the leather restraints on Michael's hands. As soon as he was free, he reached over and took her face in his hands; he stroked her cheeks and kissed her hands. She was startled and excited at the same time; this man was stirring feelings she had not known before.

She whispered, "Wait quietly, I will be back in a few minutes."

Katerina returned to her office and phoned Dr. Agilo at his home. "Nikos, yes it's Katerina, I've decided to take that time off you suggested before the conference... you know to prepare. What ... no nothing important ... the police still haven't found him ... I guess he's left the country or something. You were correct.... we don't want any trouble from the authorities or the American government ... we are best rid of him. Yes, I'll see you in Athens in two weeks. Bye."

Katerina went to the main reception and said she was leaving for the evening; the on-duty nurse said good night. Katerina returned quickly to Michael's room. She told the guard at the door to take a break, he smiled looking relieved, and left. Michael was sitting on the bed. She had brought him some clothes and he got dressed quickly; over his clothes he put on a white robe and head cover. They left the room and walked to a rear exit and disappeared into the night. Once in the doctor's parking lot, Katerina slid into her Audi with Michael getting in beside her.

He looked at her, "Where will we go?"

" We will go to my home on Mykonos."

" Why are you doing this for me.... I am a stranger to you?"

" I don't know why. I just know I must."

The Audi raced through the night, heading south towards Athens. On the outskirts of the city Katerina took a road leading to the ferry for North Andros island. From there they would have to take another ferry to the island of Mykonos, and her home.

The drive through the night had been a tiring one; Michael turned to Katerina and asked her if he should drive. She replied saying even though she was tired, it was too dangerous for him to attempt because of his condition. Once they were aboard the ferry for Andros Island, Katerina pushed the electronic seat into a reclining position and told Michael to do likewise - they should get some sleep. Katerina drifted into a troubled sleep; Michael however, could not sleep and got out of the car, walking to the front of the ferry. He peered into the water as it broke against the bow; the night was clear with many stars overhead. His thoughts were confused and troubled.

What was happening to him; who was this woman helping him and why? He recalled asking for her help but only out of desperation. She had said they were travelling to her home on an island called Mykonos - it must be another of the Greek islands.

As Michael stared at the water crashing against the ferry's bow, he felt a deep inner cold throughout his body, yet his head was feverish. Why was he continuing this never ending journey - why not end it - here - now. Simply jump from the boat - let the sea end his journey. As he began ascending the boat's railing, a hand touched him gently, pulling him back; a quiet voice appeared in the night.

"No Michael - that's not the answer - it never is. You must live; you have reasons to live."

Michael turned to face Katerina, "I have no reason to live."

" Come back to the car, you are feverish. You must try and sleep; I have some herbal tea that will help."

Michael followed her to the car, got in and reclined in the passenger seat. "Why are you helping me ... I don't want your help."

" You wanted me to help you at the hospital. Why do you suddenly feel you want no help now?"

" My reasons for living died many months ago."

" Please don't try to talk - you need rest."

Michael sipped the tea; Katerina stroked his face and held his hand. After awhile Michael drifted off to sleep.

************

Chapter 21

Once the ferry reached Andros Island, Katerina drove to its southern tip - the ferry to Mykonos would not depart until the following evening. They could not just stay in the vehicle, so Katerina took a small pensione. Michael had remained sleeping until she returned with the key to their room. He looked up at her. "Where are we?"

" The ferry to Mykonos doesn't leave until tonight; I want you to try and get as much rest as possible."

They entered the room. Michael went and sat in a chair, Katerina walked over to him. "Michael, would you like to take a shower or a bath, then sleep?"

Michael nodded, and went into the bathroom. Katerina could hear the water running in the shower but after half and hour began to be concerned about him. She slowly opened the bathroom door. Michael was standing naked in the shower, the water descending over his body.

He stood completely still - staring at the tiled shower wall.

"Michael, are you alright?"

He did not answer. Katerina threw back the rest of the shower curtain; drawing in a quick breath as she could not help but notice what a wonderful, athletic body Michael had. She took him by his hands and led him out of the shower stall. He followed her into the main room as she wrapped a guest robe around him. Katerina pulled the bedclothes back and ushered Michael into the bed. She placed the cover over him.

"Please talk to me Michael - I can only guess what might be distressing you. If the authorities think you are a terrorist - there must be some reason. Please talk to me."

Michael looked into her eyes and reached up to touch her face. "I am not a terrorist ... you must believe that. I have been on a journey to return to a place where I lost my life."

" Lost your life - what does that mean?"

" My reason for living."

" What was that reason?"

" A woman who lived in my soul ... and held my heart in her hands. She was with child - my child ... they both died."

" Oh my god, Michael, I am so, so sorry! Where did this happen?"

" No more, I don't want to talk about it."

Michael took her hand and kissed it softly then turned on his side away from Katerina.

That evening as they boarded the ferry for Mykonos, Katerina tried to get Michael to talk about the woman that was haunting him; but Michael just shook his head and replied: "No, not now."

Once the ferry arrived at Mykonos, the cars exited quickly and Katerina drove to her home near Ano Mera on the eastern most part of the island. She stopped off in the village and bought supplies and food.

They pulled up to the large villa and Katerina got out of the car; Michael remained seated.

"Come Michael, this is my home, give me a hand with the supplies."

Michael took the groceries and followed Katerina to the front door. She inserted the key and opened the door. Michael followed her in, looking around as they entered the kitchen. She began putting away the groceries and supplies.

"Michael, would you like something to eat - I'm going to make a salad."

" Your home is very beautiful. Have you always lived here?"

Katerina smiled. " It came with my divorce settlement."

" You're married?"

" Not anymore."

"Your former husband must be wealthy."

Katerina laughed. " He is - and always was - but that's not why I married him. I loved him once.

" No more?" questioned Michael.

"No, not anymore. Look, I'll make us a salad, then why don't you try to sleep, it's been a long journey getting here and in the morning, maybe you would like to swim. There's a pool or we can go to the sea."

They sat eating the salad and pita bread, then Michael followed Katerina upstairs to a large bedroom, "You can have this room, mine's down the hall - okay."

Michael did not reply.

" Sleep well, and Michael.....I believe you are not a terrorist. It's in your eyes - I know people.....well....anyway....sleep well."

The next day Katerina had decided to let Michael sleep late. I was now near noon as she made her way to his room - he was not there. She raced throughout the house and around the grounds, calling him name - he was no where to be found.

She got in her car and began driving, "Where would he go, the island is small." Suddenly she remembered his attempt to jump from the ferry into the sea and drove to a wharf that jutted out from an old harbor in Ano Mera.

What was it drawing her here and why would Michael come here anyway?

Katerina ran along the old wharf calling out Michael's name. There was no answer. She walked along the small beach adjoining the wharf and came upon Michael crouching by some old beams from the ancient wharf. He was completely nude and cowering against the wooden columns. Katerina, once she spotted Michael, crouched beside him.

"Michael, it's me - Katerina - I'm here to help you. Are you hurt, have you injured yourself?" She quickly scanned his body and seeing no obvious wounds or injury spoke again.

"Michael, can you hear me? You can't stay here - where are your clothes? Let me get them for you."

Michael Looked at her but said nothing.

"Please let me help you," she spoke softly.

"Why do you always want to help me ...you don't know me," he said.

" Come back to the house with me please."

" I have no clothes ...I don't need clothes anymore."

" Well, that's fine but some people on the island might think you should be wearing clothes."

" They don't know me ... why should they care?"

" People on this island like wearing clothes, however, if you want to go swimming with no clothes, there is a beach for nude bathing. Is that why you came here to go swimming?"

" No."

" Then why don't we go back to the house."

" I came here to forget - to forget her."

" To forget the woman you told me about last night?"

" Yes, every time I looked into her wonderful, beautiful blue eyes ...I knew how much I loved her."

" Michael, I realize you must have loved her very much but you said she was gone."

" She's dead - killed by a suicide bomber."

" Oh my god Michael! When.....!"

" A long, long time.....it's many....months, maybe years...."

" Michael - you must think of yourself now. You have to let her go."

" I could lose myself her deep, blue eyes .. it was like a dream of swimming in the blue sea."

" I understand how much you must have loved her but if what you tell me is true, she's gone - gone forever. And for you to get well again, you must let her go."

" I don't want to let her go."

" If you can't - you'll never get well."

" It doesn't matter....I don't want to live...."

" Michael, please let me help you - I care for you - I care for you deeply. Please come back with me to the house. We'll talk more there."

" I don't think so."

Katerina took Michael's hands and started to pull him away from the wharf.

" Please Michael, come with me."

He got up and allowed her to lead him back to her car. As they approached the vehicle, Katerina reached in the back seat, grasped a blanket and wrapped it around Michael. He got in the car.

As they drove back to the house, Katerina thought to herself, "My God, what am I doing? Why am I acting and saying these things to this man? What are my own feelings here? I'm jeopardizing my career, my life, everything I've worked for .....why, why?"

They drove up to Katerina's house and went inside. Michael followed Katerina up to the room she had said was his, he entered and sat on the bed. "Try to get some rest Michael."

He slipped under the duvet and she pulled the drapery over the window. Katerina walked to the bedside, "You must try to help yourself get well again; the loss you have suffered is destroying you Michael. I will try to help you find yourself - and a reason to live. Life is too valuable - we must treasure it - not waste life or try to throw it away. Promise me you will stay in the house - don't go out by yourself again - you must not harm yourself. Will you promise me?"

Michael reached out his hand; she took it and brushed it against her cheek. He whispered, "Yes - I promise you."

Katerina released his hand and left the room. Michael's eyes followed her as she drifted away.

The next morning Katerina brought coffee, crossaints with fresh butter and jam out to the deck by the pool. Michael had been swimming laps and emerged from the pool when he saw Katerina was approaching.

" Did you have a good swim?"

" Yes ... water is a great pacifier."

Katerina handed him a coffee and motioning to the crossaints. " You seem to have a great affinity towards the water."

" Yes."

" Water has been thought to be a healing mechanism - you do look better this morning Michael - how are you feeling - do you still have a headache?"

" Yes, but not as bad."

" I can give you more pain-killers if you want. When I did the scan at the hospital - there were no signs of trauma or injury. Can you remember what happened to you?" Katerina stopped suddenly, "Oh, I'm sorry Michael - that's the doctor in me - wanting to analyze everything about a patient."

" Am I your patient?"

" Well - yes I guess you are."

" And that's why you're trying to help me?"

Katerina smiled. " Yes, of course."

" Doctors don't usually bring their patients to their homes." A small smile appeared on Michael's face. "Is that a new kind of house call?"

Katerina laughed. "That's better - I knew you were feeling well today. But to answer your question - no doctors don't usually bring their patients home. I can't answer why I brought you here other than to help you."

" You are very kind."

" I want you to stay here. In one week I must travel to Athens for a medical conference. You will be safe here."

" People are hunting me."

"I know and when you want to talk about why - then I will listen. Right now I just want to get you feeling better physically and about yourself."

" You want me to talk about her don't you?"

" If you feel up to it."

" Her name was Nikita ... we worked together. I taught her, trained her."

" Trained her for what?"

" That I won't talk about.

" Fine, fine - tell me about her then."

" She was my life - my reason for living. We had been through so much together... our emotions ran to such heights. I have never loved a woman so deeply and when she died......."

Michael stopped and looked over at the pool. Katerina spoke softly, "Take your time Michael - if you don't want to go further that's okay."

" ......no, I want to talk about her. I want to remember her....I want my words to be her.....not just her image in my head."

" What did she look like?"

" Blonde, long blonde hair - tall, slim - sometimes too slim. She was very fit... she worked out all the time ... she had to because of the work we did. Her eyes were the deepest blue ... I lost myself in her eyes." Michael looked into the distance at the sea. " Her blue eyes, her lips, the touch of her skin......when we made love.......I could not believe how much she loved me back."

Katerina looked away, somewhat overcome with the obvious affect this dead woman had on this man.

"Ahhhh..... you said she was carrying your child - do you want to talk about that?"

Michael looked back at Katerina. " She was pregnant.... our child. We were so excited about having a child .... we could have made our lives work having a child. She told me she felt guilty about being pregnant.... she said she had deceived me."

" Deceived you?"

" Where we worked.... children were not allowed ... they sterilized the women."

"Oh, my God! Why?"

" They said it interfered with performance."

" But she was not sterile?"

" No she had deceived them."

" Them?"

" There are some things I cannot talk about."

" Yes, fine - tell me more about why she felt guilty about being pregnant."

" We made love...." He smiled remembering. ".....many, many times. I could not get enough of her - she was like no other woman." Michael frowned, trying to remember more. ".. ......she ......she must have conceived our child when we.........."

" Michael....you don't have to......"

" I want to remember......we made love in the bath.....love, over and over again. She must have conceived then....we made love after that but......."

Katerina got up and poured more coffee, taken aback with Michael's outpourings. "That's fine Michael......but when....."

" She told me about the child... we were going to have our life together.... be free. I went away....but she must have come with me.....we were in another country.....a third world country.....there was a bomb......she....she was killed by the bomb."

" Did you take her home after the bombing?"

" No, no I didn't.....I'm not....I can't remember why I didn't take her.....what happened to her body.....did I bury her? She should be buried and......"

Katerina took Michael's hands. "That's enough for today. Don't try to remember anymore. We can go for a drive later. Would you like to go sailing? Have you ever been sailing?"

Michael looking out at the sea. " Yes, Nikita and I used to sail....we sailed....were together....loved....."

" Come Michael - why don't you go up to your room, shower and you'll find fresh clothes I bought for you. "

Michael looked at her and nodded. He got up and entered the house. Katerina took a deep breath.

The telephone rang inside the house and she raced to answer it.

"Hello". It was Dr. Agilo calling from Salonikia. "Katerina, glad I found you in. That terrorist escaped from the hospital. Do you know anything?"

" No, of course not!"

" The authorities are swarming all over the hospital. I cannot afford to have this happening - not now."

" Well I realize we don't want police all over the hospital but why do you say - now?"

" Never mind! You may have to cut your holiday short - I have to make a business trip to Crete."

" Crete?"

" Yes, nothing to concern you - a non-medical business venture I'm involved with."

" Do you really want me to return now - I just arrived and am feeling....."

" Very well, I realize that - do you have your computer up and running? If so, I have some classified files I will send you - they will be encrypted."

" Niko - what is going on?"

" Not your concern - is your computer operating?"

" Yes."

" I'll send the encrypted files - you won't be able to read them so don't worry - I just want them out of the hospital files."

" Niko why won't you tell me what this is about?"

"These damn authorities - the CIA and local police are all over the hospital - into matters not concerning them. Go now - get the computer online - I'll send the encrypted files. Store them on CD and place them in safe-keeping."

"I don't understand why you won't tell me........"

" Do as I say Katerina! And I expect your return in one week."

Agilo hung up the telephone and Katerina walked to her office and switched on the computer. She sat gazing at the screen as encrypted email files appeared. She carefully stored them on disc. After saving the files she attempted to open them from the email encryption but to no avail. She wondered what Agilo had on these files that was so important; she tucked them into a small wall safe and looked up as Michael appeared in the office doorway.

" Thank you for the clothes."

Katerina looked appreciatively at Michael in his black jeans and cotton sweater. The clothing fit him perfectly. "Ready to go for a drive Michael - we can go down the coast."

" I don't want to trouble you - you've been very kind to me."

Katerina walked up to Michael and touched his arm. "I'm glad you're here - it gets lonely by myself in this big house. What would you like to do?"

" Maybe a short drive ...I still feel somewhat unwell. The fresh air would be good."

" Come, let's go then - I have another vehicle - a sports car so we can have the top down."

Katerina shut off her computer, picked up some keys and the two headed for the garage.

The following morning, Katerina called Dr. Agilo in Salonika. She pleaded that she needed more time away from the hospital than one week. He reluctantly agreed to two weeks. He inquired if she had received the files and whether they were in safe-keeping. When Katerina replied yes, he seemed relieved and this was when he agreed to the additional week away.

Near the end of the second week on Mykonos, Michael's condition had improved. His physical health had recovered and although his memory was still clouded, the headaches had disappeared. He was swimming every day and eating complete meals. Katerina relished in his improvement. She caught herself watching him as he swam lengths in the pool - his athletic, muscular body powered through the water. When he pulled himself from the pool, she tore her eyes from his body as he walked towards her.

" Why don't you come for a swim too?" he smiled.

Katerina looked up from her chair and squinted into the sun as the water droplets glistened on Michael's body. He patted a towel to dry the excess water and stood before her. His bathing suit fit snugly; she fought to remove her eyes from the obvious bulge in his swim suit. "Ah, well ....maybe a quick swim - then I need to start dinner."

" Let me cook tonight - I think I'm a good cook." He smiled.

" You're remembering more and more each day Michael - that's a good sign."

Michael took her hands and pulled her from the chair. She was wearing a cotton gown over her swim suit; he gently removed the gown and nudged her towards the pool. She felt his strong hands pulling her. Katerina could feel her heart racing and quickly jumped into the pool. Michael joined her and suddenly grabbed her around the waist. "You do swim, don't you?"

" Yes, yes - of course," she stammered.

He pulled her to his chest and lightly kissed her forehead. "You have been so kind to me - I will never be able to thank you. Not many people would help a person like me. You hide me here in your home, you believe me when I say I'm not a terrorist, you listen to my heartache stories - you are truly a wonderful lady."

Katerina tried to extricate herself from his grasp. " Old lady, I think."

" Old? What? You are not old.....I know ladies don't want to speak of their age but my guess would be - hummmmmm, your late thirties." He smiled. " But of course you don't have to tell me - I understand women and not telling their age."

" Michael - you are trying to charm me. But thank you - and I am fifty years old."

Michael kissed her hand. " Never."

Katerina was still attempting to pull herself away from his grasp. " Thank you very much."

" You are a beautiful woman - your age is no matter - it's what is in your heart. And your heart is....."

" Stop, stop, I......you're making me embarrassed!"

Michael drew her tighter and hugged her. Katerina's heart raced wildly; she could feel his manhood pressing against her lower body. She thought,

My God, I can't do this....this man........

************

Chapter 22

Suddenly Michael released her and smiled. He dove under the water and grabbed her legs, pulling her under, then shoved her towards the surface. Katerina gasped for air and as she surfaced, looked around for Michael; he broke the water surface smiling.

"Michael you are too much for me, I'm getting out!"

" Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you."

" No, no - that's not it - I'm not scared....well ...." She laughed. "..... maybe a little."

Katerina left the pool and began drying herself with a towel. Michael exited from the other end of the pool and walked over to her, water dripping from his hair and body. Once again Katerina had to divert her eyes from his body; she could feel herself shaking. She had not felt such physical desire for many years; not since first being with her husband.

I can't...no I must not.....

Michael broke into her thoughts, "I'll go and shower , then fix dinner....my turn...I'm sure I can remember how to cook. Oh, and I love the new color of your hair - dark hair becomes you - and is more natural for a beautiful Greek woman." He smiled and went into the house.

Katerina collapsed onto the deck chair.

She could and must not make love with this man; well maybe he wasn't interested in her anyway. This was just animal attraction - sexual - that's all. But why now - why do I have him in my house?

Two hours later, Michael placed a coq au vin with fresh spinach salad before Katerina. He poured Greek wine into goblets.

"I hope this meal is edible - I think I remember cooking and enjoying it. Funny how some memories appear. You know, when I was traveling in Croatia, I had a dream I had a son. I was positive he existed. Now, I'm not sure what my life was before."

" Michael .....I should leave for Salonika tomorrow. It's been over two weeks and I have to return to the hospital, then go to a conference in Athens. I want you to stay here while I'm gone - it will be safe for you. The authorities must still be looking for you."

" Yes, they probably are .... why I don't know. I had a dream, or maybe it was a memory, the other night. I was captive in England for some reason, I escaped ... maybe the English .. MI-6 want me."

" It was the American CIA who were after you."

Michael smiled weakly. "MI-6, CIA, Interpol ....Section ... all the same."

" Section? I've never heard of them - where are they located?"

" How's the food? More wine?"

" Okay, I know - don't ask too many questions. But seriously, please stay here. I should be able to return after the conference in three weeks. You can swim, use the computer, even drive the car."

" I will get bored. Three weeks - can't you return before that?"

" Tell you what - I have a friend on the island - a bit overbearing but means well. I'll call her - she can visit and keep you company."

" Won't she wonder who I am?"

" I'll tell her you're my - ah, French cousin."

After dinner, Michael and Katerina walked outside to view the sunset on the Adriatic.

She smiled at him, "You are so much better now; the anti-depressant drug I've been giving you is helping. Soon you will not need any medication."

" You've made me think more clearly. I know I will never see Nikita again and I must let her go so I may live."

"You can always remember her Michael - just not obsessively - remember how much you loved her but now she is gone - you will heal eventually - it all takes time."

Michael smiled at Katerina. "Thank you - you are so kind to me.... wonderful.....I want to ...."

Michael touched her eyebrow and outlined her face gently. He took her in his arms and began to dance slowly.

" Please, I want to make love to you", he whispered. ".. .. you are a special person in my life - I need to love you back."

" Michael, you don't have to thank me that way."

" It's not just a thank you - I want you - I want to make love to you."

" No, no this should not happen!"

" Please - let's go upstairs - I want to be with you - I have a surprise - please?"

Michael gently held her face and kissed her. Katerina felt her legs weaken as he swept her up and carried her upstairs. Once in the bedroom Michael asked Katerina to prepare for bed as he had a surprise for her. She stood in the master bathroom and looked in the mirror. "Oh, my God, I can't be doing this....what am I doing!"

Meanwhile, in the bedroom, Michael spread white flower petals on the bed. Katerina entered the room; he took her in his arms and began to dance slowly around the room.

Katerina had come to a point of no return; this man could do whatever he wanted with her now. She was completely smitten. He placed her on the bed and stroked her cheeks. She looked up at him and tears ran down her face. Michael kissed the salty tears then began undressing in front of her. Katerina's eyes devoured his body as he removed the last item of his clothing. He climbed into the bed and kissed her.

"I want you on top please - I want you to make love to me - and we must be safe - please place this condom on me."

" Michael - I don't know if I can ....I...."

" We will do this together - I don't want our love to be just me wanting your body - you must want me too."" I do.....I....I haven't been with a man in a long time - my work has......"

" Slowly, we will go slowly."

Katerina's mind was racing; she wanted this man so badly. Why couldn't he just ravish her, rape even - then it would be just sex - but this loving - his way of loving her. She straddled his body and he took her hand as they placed the condom on his penis.

He needed no encouragement, Michael's manhood stood at full size, engorged head ready for Katerina to place herself. Michael felt her to see if she was ready to take him. He guided her gently down on his erection. Slowly, inch by inch he entered her. She gasped and thought; he is so big, how can I take him all. Katerina was wet and took the full length of Michael to the hilt. She began moving her hips up and down; Michael lifting her in unison.

They moved together; Katerina could feel herself beginning to climax. Michael continued his movements. She began pounding harder and harder, feeling her climax overtaking her. Suddenly she could not contain herself any longer and ground her body onto Michael. He thrust upwards and released into her. She fell upon his chest, breathing heavily. They rested for a few minutes, then Michael flipped her over, now he began again, his penis growing hard again. Slowly at first, he entered her, almost withdrawing, then plunging into her again. Katerina could hardly breathe. She gasped, never having known this kind of pleasure. Again their orgasms overtook their bodies. Michael thrust again and again; she could feel him at her core. She felt like she was losing consciousness and fought to continue looking up at him as he ground into her. Michael's climax overtook him; then he rolled off her body; they lay sweat drenched and exhausted. After many minutes passed, Katerina lifted herself up and looked over at Michael. He lay staring at the ceiling.

"Michael are you alright?"

Yes, I'm sorry if I was rough with you.....I....I was losing ...."

" I am fine - you are a wonderful lover."

She smiled, looking at his face. Her eyes followed the length of his sweat drenched body and she smiled as she reached for his manhood. He became hard in her hand as she stroked his manhood and it stretched to his abdomen.

What a wonder this man was. She knew now he must always stay by her side.

The alarm went off on Katerina's bedside table. She reached over and turned it off, looking immediately for Michael. He was not there. She got up, pulling on a robe, and raced through the house and out on to the patio. Michael sat by the pool - he was naked. His body wet from his morning swim. Katerina walked up to him.

"Michael, is everything okay?" She walked around to stand in front of him. "Michael, are you alright?"

He looked up at her. "Yes, I'm....okay."

"About last night....."

" Yes....yes...it was very special."

She stood before him and placed her arms around his neck. "It was very special to me too. You are a wonderful lover Michael."Michael put his head down and Katerina laughed, "Michael, are you actually blushing?"

He looked up and smiled, "I don't know, am I?"

" I don't want to leave now but I must return to Salonikia and then to Athens. Please promise me you will stay on Mykonos. You will be safe here, I know that. Do you promise?"

Michael looked into her eyes. "Yes, you have been very kind to me - you are looking out for me. I will stay but please come back as soon as possible."

Michael kissed her gently then Katerina pulled him by his hands and said, "Come, let's go into the house. We will have breakfast, then I must catch the ferry to the mainland."

They walked together into the house.

************

Chapter 23

The days passed on Ibiza and gradually Nikita's morning sickness started to subside. She was still experiencing mood swings as her body adjusted to her pregnancy. She swam every day in Helmut's pool and he began showing her his complete operation. She joked, telling him he was running a far superior operation to Section's. She wondered how he maintained discipline with his operatives, as the morale was high and the staff motivated to work for him. She thought, if she was to ever head up Section, this was how she would run it. They sat at his main com as he punched codes into a computer.

" This is the most recent intel on the Iraqi situation. It's continuing to heat up."

" So where is your version of a Birkoff? The computerization here is amazing."

" Well I have heard of Section One's Birkoff - an incredible computer nerd but I rely on the computers themselves to analyze the intel."

" Birkoff is more than a computer nerd - he is a wonderful person - he makes the missions work."

Helmut smiled. " Maybe I can recruit him."

" I think he would enjoy working for you - Walter certainly does. So anymore intel come in on Michael's possible whereabouts?"

Helmut stopped what he was doing and looked over at Nikita. "I'm sorry Nikita, but we may have the latest in computerization intel - but there are no further details about where Michael might be."

" You'll find him Helmut - I know he is out there."

Helmut looked longingly at Nikita. When would she ever come to realize Michael was dead and come to accept it.

Helmut looked back at his screen. " Oh, this is what I've been waiting for. Hummmm, looks like I have to fly to Helsinki - a contact will only talk to me in person. He has information about a bio-chemical weapon transaction taking place in Greece."

Nikita walked over to Helmut. " Do you trust this contact?"

" Yes, he doesn't work for any agency - money is his motivator."

" Money usually is."

" Look, I'll fly to Helsinki tomorrow - I need to do some things in Oslo and Stockholm also - so I should be back in a little over a week. Why not come with me?"

" Oh, I think I'd like to stay here, in case some information comes in about Michael."

Helmut got up and, wrapped his arms around Nikita. "Whatever you want - whatever in the world you want, that I can give you - it's yours."

Nikita kissed him, "You are a wonderful man. Thank you."

Helmut smiled. " I'm so glad you are getting over that morning sickness."

" Me too.... and even though I'm having twins, I don't seem to be turning into that whale yet. She laughed.

Helmut felt her stomach. " Nope, no whales there, just a little bump."

He kissed her again. "Okay, I better get ready for this trip. Will you drive with me to the airport?"

" Of course."

The next morning Helmut and Nikita drove to the small airport on Ibiza. Helmut's private jet sat on the runway. Two operatives took his luggage and entered the plane. Helmut and Nikita sat in silence in the Porsche. Helmut smiled at her and took her face in his hands, gently kissing her lips. "I'll miss you."

" Please be careful. You may know this contact but I can't help but feel you may be in danger."

" That's your hormones speaking."

" Maybe....but....I don't want to lose anyone else close to me."

" I'll call you tonight. Don't get too bored. If you want something to do, talk to Walter, I bet he will load you up with work."

" Yes, I'm sure. I thought I might take some long walks....the beaches look wonderful."

" I wish I could be with you on those beaches."

" You go, then when you return we'll walk the beaches."

Helmut kissed her again, this time more passionately. He then opened the door and walked to the waiting jet. Nikita got out and walked to the driver's side of the car; she waved as Helmut entered the plane.

When she returned to the villa, she strolled into the vast library. "Humm, what will be good reading now that I'm a lady of leisure." Nikita picked up a worn book from the shelf. It was Vassilis Vassikkos' 'Z'. "Well, I guess reading about Greece and politics would be okay - don't see anything else."

Nikita took the book out to the patio with a glass of lemonade and her sunglasses. She began reading. A few hours passed and she drifted off to sleep. In the last chapter of the book she had read of the assassination of the Greek pacifist leader Gregory Lambrakis who was slain in Salonika and how after his murder, on walls all over Greece there appeared the letter 'Z' for zei - He Lives!

She awoke suddenly, jolted awake. What had awakened her so abruptly? She looked at the book again and saw the words - ZEI - HE LIVES!

Nikita's eyes filled with tears as Michael's image appeared. "He must be alive, why can't he be alive! Michael!!" She shouted loudly and two of Helmut's staff came running out to the patio.

"Are you alright! We heard you shouting."

" Yes, yes, I'm okay, I was just sleeping - I guess I had a bad dream....I'm okay."

That evening, Nikita asked Walter to join her for dinner. They sat eating in silence.

" You're very quiet Sugar, you okay?"

" I'm fine."

" Don't sound fine. You forget - I know you too well."

Nikita smiled. " Yes you do Walter. I guess I just started thinking about my life and what I'm doing here - having babies without a father - no home, no life, no......"

" Whoa! That's enough of that talk! Okay, so you don't have the real father for the children but ......well ...life here is not that bad."

" I feel lost Walter."

"I'm sorry Sugar. I guess cause I really like working here and the people are great - I know it's not the same for you. How can I help?"

" You just being here helps."

" I wish we could find Michael but .....well....maybe down the road ....ah, you might have to accept that .....he ....he's dead."

" No - I can't ever accept that."

" Sugar, you might have to some day."

"I don't think I will ever be able to do that Walter - I love him so much and now having his children - imagine - two children!"

" Well having twins is a little overwhelming."

" What will I do after I give birth. I can't go back to Centre and my father. I can't live that life anymore."

" You could stay here with Helmut - you know, he cares for you."

" I know, I feel like I'm deceiving him. I know he wants more from me."

" Sugar, I don't know what to tell you. Maybe time will sort things out."

" God I wish I could have a drink of wine! Being pregnant is bad enough, but I miss having a drink of wine!"

Walter laughed. "I'm sure one little drink of wine won't hurt."

" No, the doctor said no alcohol. So I'll just sit here; feel sorry for myself and drink my apple juice."

Walter got up and walked over to Nikita. He kissed her forehead and gave her a hug. "Anything you want me to do - just ask. I wish I could make everything okay - you and Michael went through so much together and now....oh, damn, I'm suppose to be making you feel better and I go and......!"

Nikita got up from the table and wrapped her arms around Walter. "It's fine Walter, you are here for me that's all I want."

The next morning, Nikita was sitting on the patio eating breakfast. She was grateful that she could finally keep it down. Walter came running out, waving a handful of papers.

"Sugar, look at this - Lenz was running standard checks on intel from Italy and well look - there was a report of a man matching Michael's description in northern Italy. The police were following a tip from the CIA about a terrorist....but look at the police photo - now if that doesn't look like Michael.......!"

Nikita grabbed the papers, "Yes, it could be Michael - what location in Italy?"

" That's the problem - he was spotted in northern Italy - Torino - but then he vanished."

" Walter - I want to go there - to Torino."

" What - that's crazy - what do you expect to find?"

" If Michael was in Torino - maybe I can find out where he went next."

" Oh, God Sugar - we don't even know if this was Michael; I should never have brought you this intel....!"

" Where's Helmut's secretary? I'm going to fly to Rome, then to Torino."

" Oh, geeze, Nikita, no, don't do this ....I just thought by telling you, it would make you feel better. I didn't think you'd go running off to Italy! "

Nikita got up and went into the villa looking for Helmut's secretary. Walter followed her.

"Mary, oh, sorry to interrupt you but could you book me on a flight to Rome."

" Oh, yes, sure. Rome?"

Walter stood shaking his head.

" Yes, the first flight out."

" Okay, yes. I'll call now. I think there's a flight off the island tonight to Madrid and I'll book a connection to Rome."

Nikita returned to her bedroom and began throwing items of clothing into a suitcase. Walter stood in the doorway. "Sugar, please don't do this! It's crazy. What if you get sick or something."

" I feel really good Walter. Even better now."

Walter shook his head. " Sugar - Nikita - no! Well, at least let me come with you!"

Nikita stopped packing and walked to Walter. She reached up and held his face. "Walter, I'm pregnant - not totally incapacitated. I will be fine. I don't have any more morning sickness, I've been swimming and feel fit. And I don't want you to come with me. I can handle myself."

" What if Helmut wants to know where you've gone?"

" Tell him. He's going to call me and I'll tell him myself."

" He's going to be pissed at me."

" Walter - I am doing this - now please find me a baby glock, a laptop and some tracking equipment."

" A glock! What! ......and just how do you think you're going to get that aboard a commercial jet!"

" I'm pregnant - I'll use that somehow."

" What! Oh, God, I can't ......"

" Walter - the glock, the computer and tracking equipment - okay."

Walter turned and left. Nikita continued selecting clothes and putting them into her suitcase. She pulled out her second case and opened it.

The picture of Michael lay on top; she picked it up and touched the photo - she gently kissed Michael's image and put it with her clothing for the trip.

Nikita sat on the Pam Am jet to Rome. She had been able to get the baby glock and tracking equipment aboard by using a special anti-scanner device that blocked all metal images in luggage. She had also asked for assistance boarding, stating she was pregnant and not feeling well. Eager male airline employees jumped at the chance to assist a beautiful, blonde woman, even though she was pregnant.

Once she landed in Rome, she went to the airline enquiry desk and determined she would have two hours before a connecting flight to Torino. As she sat in the airport cafe, her cell phone rang. It was Helmut.

"Helmut. ..you've talked to Walter ....yes I know it might be a waste of time but I thought I could find out if ....well ....at least if it might have been him. I know .....I'll be very careful. No, I know ..." She laughed. ."...no leaping tall buildings for pregnant mother's to be. Yes, I'll phone when I get to Torino. Oh, how are things going in Helsinki? What - really - so you will go to Greece? No, don't wait for me to get back ....okay, very well ....I'll only be three or four days. I guess I could go to Greece too. Sure, I look forward to seeing you. Bye." She closed her phone, picked up her travel bag and walked to the connecting airline to Torino.

Once Nikita's plane arrived at Torino, she went directly to her hotel. She went into her room and immediately plugged her PDA into her laptop. She punched in codes and Walter's image appeared on the screen.

" Walter, I've arrived, can you download all the intel now."

" Sugar, are you alright?"

" Of course, I'm fine. I will go to the local police in the morning and take it from there."

" I wish you wouldn't do this. What if you get sick or something."

" Walter, I hardly have any morning sickness anymore. I feel really good, now stop worrying."

" I can't help it. If Helmut finds out I gave you this intel, he'll probably have me cancelled."

" From what I can see, Helmut doesn't cancel operatives. He just makes them into gardeners and cooks." She laughed.

" I don't like gardening or cooking."

" Please send me the intel."

" Fine. You always get your way with me."

" I'm counting on you - oh, and that tracker you gave me - where's the best place for it?"

" I'm too embarrassed to say."

" Gotcha. Okay, start sending the information and I'm going to place the tracker and do a check to see if you're receiving me."

" Okay."

Nikita placed the minute tracker where no-one would think to look and spoke to Walter. "How's that - am I transmitting?"

" Yes, considering where I think you placed it."

" Good. The download is finished too - so I think I'll try to sleep and will contact you in the morning. Good night Walter - and don't worry."

" Good night Sugar - sleep well."

The next morning Nikita rented a car and made her way to the local police station. She walked in and went to the main desk.

"Hello, may I speak to one of your senior officers?" She flashed a British police identity badge. "I'm a police officer from London and wish to inquire about a possible suspect."

The policeman at the desk picked up the phone and spoke softly. He replaced the receiver and looked at Nikita. "Officer Serpicola will see you. Please have a seat." He smiled, "You are very beautiful - sorry my English is not good."

Nikita smiled back, "Your English is fine - and thank you."

An officer in his early forties walked out from a rear office. "Hello - can I be of assistance?" He held his hand out and Nikita extended hers. "My name is Carlo Serpicola and what might your name be?" He still held her hand.

"Nikita, I'm with the British Home Office. I was wondering if I could talk to you about a suspect you were looking for. He was a suspected terrorist." Serpicola reluctantly released Nikita's hand. "Humm, come into my office."

Serpicola motioned Nikita to a chair and shut the door to the office. "When was this?"

" I'm not sure of the time frame but the CIA were following him and tracked him to Torino."

" The CIA - oh, yes - I remember now. They said he was wanted for bombing their embassy in Cairo."

" Yes - embassy bombings. Do you have a picture of him?"

Serpicola walked to his computer and punched information on the keyboard - a photo rendering filtered out of the printer. He handed it to Nikita. She sat in silence. The image was Michael - the same one Walter had shown her."

" So - he is wanted in England also."

" Yes, uh, yes - we've been tracking him also."

" Between the British authorities and the CIA - you would think someone would find him."

" Where do you think he went after leaving Torino?"

" We traced him to Venice - or a man that could have been him - from there nothing."

" Why do you think he was in Torino?"

" No idea. He could be anywhere now." He paused. " However, I think the CIA have more information than they are telling us. We are just simple police officers - they have many methods of tracking people and I believe they want him for more reasons than just bombings."

" Like what?"

Serpicola smiled. "I wish I knew and then if I did - you would have more reason to spend time with me."

Nikita smiled. "So you've told me everything you know."

" It's not much but that is all the information we have. Ahhh, how long do you plan to stay in Torino?"

" Not long."

" I would be most honoured if you would have dinner with me. Torino has exquisite restaurants."

" Thank you very much but I should return to my hotel and do some work."

" You know - the CIA has an office here in Torino - I could help you contact them. We could discuss this further over wine and dinner."

Nikita rose from her chair. " Thank you again, you have been most gracious and I already know of the CIA's office here in Torino. They don't keep all their undercover operations totally secret." She laughed. " Imagine using a bakery as a front for a CIA office!"

Serpicola laughed " Yes, crazy Americans - but they closed the bakery."

" Yes?"

" Are you sure you won't have dinner with me - we could discuss the whereabouts of the CIA further."

Nikita walked up to him and touched his cheek. " You are teasing me Carlo but I know the Americans love freshly baked bread."

Serpicola took her hand. " You are too clever....beautiful and clever. I imagine you are deadly too."

" You are charming Carlo - I thank you for the information but I must go."

Serpicola kissed her hand twice and looked longingly at her face. As Nikita walked from the room, his eyes traced the full length of her body.

************

Chapter 24

Nikita spent the rest of the day checking out hotels and restaurants in Torino; showing Michael's picture and inquiring if he had been at their business. No one recognized having seen the man in the picture. Once back at her hotel, she went to the laptop and began entering codes regarding CIA European offices. The intel appeared; the CIA did indeed have an office at a bakery in Torino. Nikita made a note of the address. She entered more information into the laptop and then contacted Walter.

" Walter, I've come up with some intel about the local CIA office but need more information about the agents working there."

" Sure, I'll get on it and send the information right away. How are you doing?"

" Fine. I could have had a date with a handsome Italian policeman." She laughed.

" Oh - he must have been hitting on you - right?"

" Yes, and if he only knew I was pregnant with twins, I'm sure he would have lost interest."

" I doubt it. Okay - I found something on the Torino CIA. Oh, oh, I don't think you're going to get much from these agents."

" Why - what's the problem?"

" You remember those two CIA agents that Section captured in Turkey - thought they were Red Cell - well - it's the same two."

" I'm not going to say I'm from Section. I thought I'd use a cover as a Scotland Yard agent."

" Might work but if not - you may have to pay their office an after hours visit."

" Hummm...that might be a better idea - in case they get territorial about intel on terrorists."

" Your call, but I remember these two agents as being real hard-a$$ types."

" Thanks Walter - it's been a long day. I've been all over this city and found nothing so I think I'll have a bite to eat, then go to bed."

" You take care of yourself Nikita - and please be careful!"

" I will - goodnight Walter."

Nikita logged off the computer after making note of the intel Walter had forwarded about the CIA agents. She picked up the hotel phone and ordered a light dinner to be sent to her room. After the dinner arrived, she sat eating and watched television. The main news event was the current situation in Iraq. The subject of bio-chemical weapons being hidden in Iraq was the latest fear in ongoing negotiations between the UN and Iraq. Nikita turned off the television, went into the bathroom and filled the tub. She removed her clothes and slipped into the water. The soothing warmth of the water surrounded her; she closed her eyes - Michael's image appeared.

"Michael - I know you are out there - somewhere - I will find you. Your seed is growing in me - babies - our babies. I will never give you up for dead; we will be together again and raise our children - together."

Tears rolled down her face as she lathered the soap and washed her body. Nikita lay still, soaking in the water, then got out of the bath, towelled herself and looked in the full length mirror. Her body was only showing a slight bulge in the abdomen; she might even be able to still fit into the mission gear she had brought.

"If the doctor hadn't confirmed it - I wouldn't think I was even having twins. Maybe I'll start turning into that whale next month."

She smiled as she recalled the doctor telling her how some women became sexually aggressive with their partners as their pregnancies progressed. In fact some women couldn't get enough sex during their pregnancy.

Oh well - I don't have to worry about that. She thought of Helmut - poor man - if I do start feeling that way.....no I couldn't do that to him.

Nikita slipped into the bed; the affect of the hot bath and fatigue swept over her. She drifted into a deep sleep. After two hours, she began tossing and turning in the bed. She could feel herself tied to a wooden chair; a large man stood in front of her and slapped her face and punched her abdomen. Nikita called out for the man to stop hitting her, "No, don't hurt me; don't hit me there - I'm pregnant - you'll harm my child!"

Suddenly a figure came crashing through an upper window.

"Michael - I'm here - over here!" She struggled to free herself but the figure did not approach her.

The figure kept crashing through the window over and over.

"I'm here Michael! Help me!"

Nikita awoke, her body covered in sweat. She rose from the bed and got a drink of water. She returned to the bed and lay staring at the ceiling. Soon sleep returned: she rolled over on top of a man. She was kissing him; not sure of who he was. She was loving this man, feeling him inside her. The image drifted away. Another man appeared; she was in a swimming pool with him; loving him. This image drifted away and Nikita tossed in the bed. Then the image of Michael and her appeared; she reached out; she could feel him love her. Her body writhed under Michael as he thrust into her. She called out: "Michael! Michael!" After their lovemaking, Michael rolled off her, got up from the bed and walked to a window - he disappeared through the opening. Nikita followed him to the window and looked out; Michael was walking on a beach - away from her. She called to him: he walked into the horizon. Nikita awoke - her body bathed in sweat.

The next morning Nikita rose, showered, ate a quick breakfast in her room and left to go to the bakery where the CIA had their covert office.

She stood across the street from the building. After an hour both the CIA agents walked out the door. They got into a car and drove off. Nikita quickly entered the bakery. A lone attendant was putting bread onto shelves.

" Yes, may I be of service."

" Yes - I would like a loaf of whole wheat please."

The attendant picked up a loaf and began wrapping it. At the same time Nikita walked up to him and pricked him with a knock-out drug. The attendant fell to the floor. Nikita slipped into the back room - an office with computers and tracking equipment lined the walls of the room.

Brother - these CIA agents do trust their bakery store cover.

She began looking through desks and files. Nothing - no information about a man resembling Michael. Suddenly, a woman appeared from a side door.

"Who the hell are you!" she demanded.

Nikita swung around and pointed her gun at the woman. "Good timing - you can help me upload the computer files!"

Nikita forced the woman into the chair at a computer terminal. "I want you to find me information on all suspected terrorists recently spotted in Torino or anywhere else in Italy."

" Why the hell should I do that - who are you!"

"If you want to live - you'll do it now!"

" You don't scare me - you're not going to use that gun."

Nikita thrust the gun into the woman's mouth. " Try me!"

The woman looked startled and sputtered, ".... Oh...okay.."

Nikita removed the gun from the woman's mouth.

" I just wanted to know who you are."

" I'm with Scotland Yard - the CIA haven't been co-operating with us lately and we're getting a little pissed with them."

" Why didn't you say. I just work for them - inputing data. But if you're with the British - fine - what do you want to know?"

"All intel on terrorist sightings in Italy, especially Torino." Nikita pulled out the police photograph Walter had sent her. " Also, scan this photo and show me what information you have."

" The CIA agents might not want me to do this."

" Do it! I'll deal with the CIA."

The woman began typing codes into the computer - a list of possible terrorists appeared. She then scanned the photo. " Print out the information."

The printer spit out the information from the computer and the scanned photo. Nikita grabbed it. "Is this everything?"

" Yes, that's all. I've tried all the coding I know."

" Right. Well - sweet dreams."

Nikita pricked the woman with the same knock-out drug and as the woman slumped over the desk, Nikita quickly checked the room then slipped out the front door.

Nikita entered her hotel room; quickly turned on the computer and copied the intel from the CIA printout. The computer digested the information and searched for records. Nikita took a bottle of water from the mini-bar and grabbed some fruit from the nearby table. She sat sipping the water and eating an apple. After half and hour, the last updated intel appeared on the screen. The only information on the suspect who might have been Michael was what officer Serpicola had already given her. She got up and walked to the hotel window.

Nothing, absolutely nothing..... It's like he vanished in thin air.

The information showed the CIA had actually been distracted by current events in tracing a terrorist suspected in the recent Bali bombing and although there were possible leads in Greece and Turkey, they had temporarily abandoned follow-up of leads in Thessaloniki and Ankara.

Nikita returned to the computer and called up Walter. His image appeared on the screen.

" Nikita, you okay....did you find anything?"

" No I haven't - not anything I didn't already know."

" So what now?"

" I guess I'll return to Ibiza. I haven't heard from Helmut, has he come back yet?"

" He's due in tonight."

Nikita did not reply.

" Hey....you okay?"

" Yes, I just thought this lead would track Michael's whereabout, that's all."

" Sugar, get back here."

" Yes, okay....there's a flight out to Rome and then Madrid first thing in the morning. Please let Helmut know."

" I'm sorry Nikita....I shouldn't have got your hopes up by showing you that intel."

" It's fine Walter. I think I might try and get some rest now."

" See you tomorrow, Sugar."

" Goodbye Walter."

The next morning Nikita caught a connector from Torino to Rome; she then boarded an Alitalia flight to Madrid. As she sat in the first class window seat waiting for the plane to depart, a tall dark, suave looking man sat next to her.

He smiled, "Hello, I believe I am seated next to you."

Nikita smiled back. "Yes, fine."

She turned and once again looked out the window. The take-off sign flashed and the plane taxied down the runway. Soon the jet was streaking through the sky towards Mardrid. Once the no-seatbelt sign came on, Nikita undid the belt, and put her seat back. A stewardess came and asked if Nikita and the man next to her wanted drinks. Nikita ordered an orange juice, the man a double martini. When the drinks arrived, the man turned to Nikita.

"Excuse me, you are British?"

" Uh, well yes."

" Your accent sounds slightly British but with a little something different."

" I'm originally from Australia."

" Ahhhh, that explains it. Then your accent is mid-Pacific." He laughed. "... or mid-Atlantic."

" I guess."

" You are very beautiful, are you a model?"

Nikita smiled. " Ahh, well, I was at one time."

" You are not anymore?"

" No."

" You should still be a model. Are you yet involved in the fashion world?"

" Well, ah, yes....you could say so."

" Do you mind if I ask what you do?"

" I....ah...run a fashion agency."

" Oh, yes, I can see you have brains and beauty!"

************

Chapter 25

Nikita thought to herself, "God, I'm stuck with this guy for the whole trip, maybe I'll pretend to sleep."

The fellow passenger peered at Nikita. " I see you do not wear a wedding ring - are you single?"

" I....I have a partner."

" Oh, too bad. But where are my manners. I have not introduced myself - my name is Dr. Nikos Agilo. I am the head of medical staff at Salonika Hellas hospital - that's in Greece."

" Salonika - that's Thessaloniki?"

" Yes, correct - you have been to Greece?"

Nikita recalled a mission years ago. " Only once but just to Athens."

" You should visit Greece, especially the Greek islands - they are very beautiful."

Nikita recalled Helmut's conversation about their upcoming visit to Greece. " Well, maybe some day."

" Were you in Rome on fashion agency business?"

" No, just tidying up some loose ends."

" Loose ends, sorry my english is not perfect."

"A few small business details."

" Ahh, yes, myself also. I have been on Crete before Rome, arranging for some....ah, shipping to Spain."

" You have other business interests besides being a doctor?"

" Ahhh, well.....yes I am also a businessman. I will travel to northern Spain - to the Basque area. Have you been there?"

" No - I understand it is very scenic."

" Well, yes but there are also Basque separatists in the north."

" Yes?"

Agilo was obviously trying to impress Nikita. " I have traveled extensively in the world and have connections."

" Connections?"

"To....to international dealings...."

" I'm not sure I understand?"

" I can't go into details but suffice it to say, I am in the bio-chemical business."

Nikita's suddenly became more interested. " What kind of bio-chemcials?"

" Oh, I've said to much - I'm afraid sitting next to a beautiful woman has distracted me." He laughed.

" We're just making conversation. Your work sounds very interesting though. How does it tie into the hospital in Salonika?"

Agilo laughed nervously. " Now, now - I've been talking too much."

At that moment the stewardess arrived asking if they wanted a light snack. Dr. Agilo ordered another martini; Nikita ordered a salad and more juice.

" You are watching your weight? That is not much to eat."

Nikita smiled. " Yes, I'm watching my weight - lately, I've been putting on a few pounds."

After eating her salad, Nikita returned her tray to the stewardess. She smiled at Agilo, "If you don't mind, I am going to try to sleep a little before we land."

"No, oh, yes - by all means - sleep."

Nikita put her seat back and closed her eyes. She thought of what Agilo had said. Her operative alarm bells were ringing. Humm, bio-chemicals to the Basque area. Better tell Helmut about that - sounds strange.

The Alitalia jet arrived in Madrid and taxied to a stop. Dr. Agilo sat staring at Nikita. "Excuse me, will you be staying in Madrid? Myself, I have one night here then will travel north. Maybe we could have, ah, say, dinner together."

" Thank you but no..my partner has arranged to pick me up."

" Ahh, I see. Well it was very enjoyable talking to such an attractive British-Australian lady."

Nikita smiled. " Yes, enjoyable....thank you."

Inside the Madrid arrivals terminal, one of Helmut's men spotted Nikita and approached her. She handed him her luggage and they started for the far side of the airport and the tarmack where Helmut's private jet awaited.

Dr. Agilo watched Nikita walk off with Helmut's man as they disappeared into the crowd. Agilo thought to himself, Oh what a lucky man he is to have such a beautiful woman.

Helmut's jet streaked off towards Ibiza and soon was setting down at the island airport. Helmut sat in a black Mercedes waiting. Nikita walked down the plane's steps as Helmut got out of the car, walked to Nikita, put his arms around her and kissed her.

" Nikita, I must admit I was worried. You are alright?"

" I'm fine, you and Walter worry too much."

" I know you can look after yourself but being pregnant can cause....well....make reactions different."

" You mean my hormones running amuck!"

" Something like that. Walter tells me you were not able to find out much."

" No - the CIA seems to have stopped looking. But the thing that puzzles me - even though I tapped their files, there is very little information as to why they think Michael might have been a terrorist. Other than a suspect in embassy bombings, they have no definite proof. He was picked up by MI-6, taken to London, escaped and surfaced in Italy, then disappeared."

" But all the information we had before showed he had been killed by a suicide bomber."

" I know, that's what is so strange."

As they drove back to the villa, Helmut spoke softly to Nikita, "I don't know how to say this...but are you sure this person in Italy is the same man?" " Same man?"

" All the intel points to Michael being killed in Afghanistan by the suicide bomber and now the British have a suspect and the CIA think he is bombing embassies. It doesn't make sense Nikita."

" What are you saying?"

" I don't want to hurt you Nikita but....the facts don't make sense."

" You don't believe he's alive, do you?"

" I'm sorry, no I don't think he is alive. There were bodies found."

" He's alive Helmut - I can feel it."

" Let's not talk about this anymore. In two days, I must go to Greece to follow up on some intel on a arms dealer. He is suspected of selling missiles and possibly bio-chemical weapons to Iraq. I need to spend a few days in Athens then I thought we could go sailing around the Greek islands. You said you would come with me - you still.....well.....still want to go?"

They had arrived at the villa - Helmut took Nikita's luggage and they walked through the front door into the main lounge.

" You haven't answered me - will you come to Greece?"

Nikita turned to Helmut, tears began to roll down her face. "Helmut, what am I trying to do. That whole trip to Italy was a waste of time....and like you say...Michael was probably killed. I just keep thinking I'll find him...."

Helmut took her in his arms and stroked her hair. "Now, now...don't listen to what I say....go by your instincts. We will continue to look for him....follow up leads...whatever you want."

Nikita felt her emotions welling from within; she was now crying uncontrollably. "Helmut....I want to feel like a person again....I want to feel love...I want to be with someone...I want to be with you!"

" Nikita...you are upset...you...."

" Helmut - I want you to make love to me!"

Nikita wrapped her arms around Helmut and kissed him passionately. Helmut responded to her, thinking, I have wanted this woman so much but.......

Nikita continued kissing Helmut and love biting his neck. He traced her body, feeling her thighs, bottom and back. She reached down and began undoing his pants; she forced her body against his, withdrew and reached in with her hand, grabbing his erection - he moaned in response.

Helmut felt himself near the edge and grabbed Nikita's hand away. He wrapped her arms around her back and whispered, "No, I want to savor our love - not like this..."

Nikita pulled back and grinned, looking into his eyes, "I know you want me - take me here - right here on the floor."

" I would prefer your bed or mine." He smiled.

She began removing his clothes. First unbuttoning his shirt, his tie, his pants. When she made a grand move of pulling the pants to the floor; Helmut stood grinning. "You are driving me to distraction Nikita!"

Nikita looked at his erection " Yes, I can see that! Well, I guess my hormones are running amuck...like the doctor warned me!"

He took her hands, "Stop, please....let us go upstairs to my bedroom....."

Nikita started dancing around him. "You are too stuffy Helmut - I want to do it right here - on the floor, then on the piano, then out on the patio, then......"

With that Helmut walked to Nikita and swept her up in his arms. "My beautiful lady - you deserve something better than the floor."

Helmut carried Nikita upstairs to his bedroom. Once inside the room, he laid her on the bed and kissed her gently. She pulled him down on top of her, hungrily kissing him. He pulled back and whispered, "Let me remove your clothes - I want to see your exquisite body."

Nikita laughed, "Ha, you want to see a whale in waiting more like!"

Helmut gently removed her clothes and began kissing her stomach. "I told you, I don't see any whales here."

Nikita pulled Helmut's head to hers and thrust her tongue into his mouth. She gasped for air and sputtered breathlessly. "I warned you - about what the doctor told me - pregnant women get very passionate!"

" Nikita - you are a wonder...never have I known a woman like...."

" ....me - ha. I warned you!"

Helmut smothered her in kisses; Nikita's body was writhing and thrusting. "I want you in me, please....!" Helmut rolled Nikita over and she placed herself on his erection. He thrust up as she pounded her body onto him. Helmut could not control himself as his climax coursed through his body. Nikita cried out as her climax washed over her. When she came down, she fell onto Helmut's chest. He whispered to her, "My love....my beautiful, wonderful Nikita....no woman...I....I love you Nikita...."

She lay motionless; she did not speak. Helmut rolled her over and pulled the duvet over their bodies.

"I love you...you must know that...I will do anything....give you anything you want...just stay with me....be with me....love me Nikita."

Still Nikita said nothing.

The two lay together: no words were spoken. Soon Nikita drifted off to sleep. Helmut stroked her hair and gently kissed her face. A breeze blew the light curtains on the open window; and in the distance - a fog horn blew - warning ships of onshore dangers.

The bedside telephone rang. Nikita stirred and awoke; she smiled at Helmut, then got out of the bed and went into the bathroom. Helmut sat in the bed speaking into the telephone.

" Yes, yes, I understand. Good - I will leave for Greece tomorrow afternoon."

He rung off from the call and punched in another number, "Kurt - have the jet ready for a flight to Greece in the afternoon."

Nikita came out of the bathroom. Helmut smiled, "You look radiant, my love!"

" I must of dozed off. Sorry, I guess the flight from Italy and..." She smiled. " .... all your randy lovemaking exhausted me. I ran a bath for you."

Helmut rose from the bed, walked to Nikita and took her in his arms, "Do you remember anything I said to you?"

" Of course."

" Well, what did I say then?"

" Ahh....." She bit her lip. " You thought I was a beautiful pregnant lady."

" Not what I said!"

" Sorry."

" I told you I loved you."

" Helmut, I remember....well..most of what you said. And I would so like to feel the same love for you....but..."

" You love Michael." " I will always love him."

" Even if he is dead."

Nikita walked to the large bedroom window and looked out into the fog. "You may be correct - he probably did die in Afghanistan. The terrorist in Italy....well looked like him...but..."

Helmut walked over and put his arms around her. " I understand your love for him Nikita...he will always be in your heart...but if sometime when you heal...you could find a place for me ...I love you so much...you make me so happy...."

Nikita smiled. " Are you sure it's not just the lovemaking we just did."

" That was the most wonderful love I have had...but it was so because of how I feel about you...and when you are ready...if you find it in your heart....I would be most honoured if you would marry me."

" Helmut......I...."

" Don't answer me now....come to Greece with me. We will spend a few days on business, then go sailing through the Greek Islands."

Nikita put her arms around Helmut. "How can I ever thank you for being such a wonderful man."

" Nikita....I am a realist...I know the most wonderful man in your life is the father of the two children in your womb. I want to be the second most wonderful man in your life."