The President’s Son

 by: Miguel Sanchez

© 2009-2013 by the author

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

Chapter 53

JR finished printing out everything then we got ready to return to the residence. I looked at the clock and it was after 11PM. It didn’t take long to return to the residence and the first thing I did was get a cup of coffee. Ben was sitting in the living room waiting for us. “I thought I was going to have to send out search team.”

“I apologize Sir, but it seemed the more we dug the worse things got but we were able to get a few questions answered.”

“Do I want to know what you found?” Ben asked.

“I don’t know if you really want to know but I do think you should.” I replied finishing my coffee.

Ben was yawning. “Very well, can this wait until the morning?”

I was exhausted also. “Yes Sir it can.”

Bennie gave Ben a hug then Bennie and I headed off to bed.

The next morning I was wide awake at 6:30 and Bennie was still out like a light. I grabbed a shower then put on some fresh clothes and headed for the dining room. I had just fixed my first cup of coffee when my phone rang. “Mason.”

“Ace, someone is at it again.”

“This has to stop.” I said rather loudly. “Is the same person trying to get in?”

“Well, I don’t know who is trying but it’s coming from the same place.”

“Alright, print out what you have and bring it up. Did you get any sleep last night?”

JR laughed. “Yes I did but I had a feeling they would try again so I was in early.”

“Alright,” I replied. “Bring what you get printed out up to me. The President is going to need to see this. Is Dusty in with you too?”

“Yes, we’re both here.”

“OK, breakfast is at 8.”

“Thanks Ace, we’ll be there as soon as everything is printed.”

I ended the call then fixed another cup of coffee. No sooner had I sat down, Ben came in. “Alright Ace, what is going on?”

“You’re definitely aren’t going to like this.” I started, then poured Ben a cup of coffee. “Someone is trying to gain access to our computers.”

Ben was staring at me and I could see his blood pressure rising. “WHO?”

“I have my suspicions but there is one thing we do know and that Evelyn Moore bypassed the protocol server by connecting a cable to the back of it and running it over to one of the mainframes.”

“Are you positive of this?” Ben asked.

“We are and Ed called Adam Graham last night to secure an arrest warrant for her, but it was really late so he’ll get that this morning.”

Ben was shaking his head. “How could I have been so wrong about someone?”

“Sir, we were all blindsided by her. Do you remember back when I first arrived and what Nate tried to do? She was the first one to yank his credentials then she did a total one eighty and said to Cal that she didn’t think Nate was guilty.”

“So who is trying to get into our computers?” Ben asked as I heard the elevator doors open.

I looked over to the door and in came Dusty and JR. He handed me the printout then I passed it over to Ben after looking at it carefully. “Did you bring the other papers you printed out last night with you?”

Ben read the printout. “JR, are you sure about this?”

“I am, Mr. President.” He replied.

Ben got up and headed towards his office. “Ace with me.”

Ben went right to his phone and pushed a button. I heard it ringing so I knew it was on speaker. As soon as the ringing stopped, he picked the handset up. “This is the President; let me speak to the director.”

“I’m sorry Mr. President, he’s not in.”

Ben put the call back on speaker then sat down. “Well I want you to find him and tell him I want him in my office at 9 o'clock. Do I make myself clear?”

“Mr. President, the director has meetings scheduled all morning.”

“I don’t give a damn, if he values his job he better be here and on time. Do we understand each other?”

“Yes Mr. President. I will give him this message personally.”

I managed to get Ben’s attention. I scribbled a question on a piece of paper. “One more thing.” Ben said before the person on the other end of the phone could hang up.

“Yes Sir?”

“Do you have someone there by the name of Evelyn Morgan?”

“Umm,” He started saying.

“Well, do you or don’t you?” Ben almost shouted.

“I’ll have to look into it Sir.”

Ben wasn’t getting anywhere fast. “Fine, you just remember to have the Director here at 9.”

Ben ended the call then stood up. “You don’t think they hired her, do you?”

“Nothing would surprise me Ace but if they did, they have a lot of explaining to do.” Ben said as he headed for the door.

I thought for a minute. “She was free to go anywhere who would be willing to hire her.”

“You’re right but I didn’t think they’d be that crazy.” Ben fired back.

“Since when did they do something normal?”

We headed back to the dining room and I noticed Bennie wasn’t there so I had to go wake him up. It was just after 7 so I knew he would moan. “What time should I get Bennie up since you have to be in the Oval Office at 9?”

“Let him sleep until 8.” Ben replied.

The four of us talked until Gloria brought some fresh bread out to the table along with some butter and jelly. I was about to get Bennie when he came into the dining room. “What time did you wake up Ace?”

“I was up at 6:30 so I let you sleep.”

He gave me a quick hug as I went to get him his orange juice. “Dad can I have some coffee?”

“Sure son,” Ben said surprised.

I got him a cup then set it in front of him. He took a sip of the black liquid then made a wild face. “How do you drink this stuff?”

I slid the cup over to me and fixed it like I drink it. Bennie watched as I added two spoons of sugar and some cream in it. “Try it now.”

Bennie took another sip then smiled. “Oh yeah, that’s much better.”

It was going to be interesting watching him as he got used to caffeine. Bennie quickly finished his first cup then went and fixed another. Gloria brought breakfast in then we dug in to her Mexican omelets. I had just finished eating when the house phone rang. “Residence, Agent Mason speaking.”

“Agent Mason, I have a call here for the President.”

“Who is calling Frank?” I asked.

“Someone named Steven Carlisle.” Frank answered.

I looked at Ben. “Steven Carlisle is on hold for you Sir.”

Ben finished his omelet then came over to the phone. “Frank, put him through please.”

Ben hung up then waited for it to ring. “President Jacobs.”

“Mr. President, is there any way we can meet later today?”

“Mr. Carlisle, if you’re not in my office at 9AM sharp, by 9:05 you will be needing a new job.”

“Now Mr. President, I’m sure we can resolve this.”

“Fine, if you’re not here then you will be brought here in handcuffs.”

“But, but”

“No buts, be here or else. Also, do you have Evelyn Morgan working for you?”

“As a matter of fact, I do Sir.”

“Good have her with you too. I’ll see you at 9AM.”

Ben hung the phone up and went back and sat down. “That went well Sir,” I said but as soon as I had, he was shooting daggers at me.

I heard the elevator doors open. “Down Tonka.”

I recognized that voice. “Bennie you better take Tonka out.”

Bennie finished his coffee then went to take his dog out. When Ed came in Ben looked at him. “Did you get hold of Adam?”

“Yes Sir, he’s on his way over to the courthouse to get the warrant.”

“Good, can you call him and have him bring it to you here?”

“No need Sir, I’d already asked him that.” Ed replied. “He’ll call me as soon as he has the warrant.”

“Good,” Ben said as he got himself another cup of coffee.

When Bennie returned, he looked at us. “What’s the plan for today?”

“I don’t know about you but I have some work to finish up and a few reports to get out.” I answered.

“What can I do?” Bennie asked as I started thinking.

I had hoped my plate would be empty so I could concentrate on occupying Bennie but such was not the case. “It’s going to be a nice day so you could always swim.”

I heard him sigh. “Yeah, I guess so.”

Ben thought for a moment. “Son, do you think Jake and Carl would like to swim with you?”

“How will they get here?” Bennie asked.

“Why don’t you call them and see if Carl’s mom can bring them over.” Ben asked.

“Wait a minute,” I started. “Didn’t you tell me Jake has a car now?”

“Hey yeah, that’s right.” Bennie said smiling.

“When you talk to Jake, get the information about the car then I’ll call the back gate so they can have the car’s details.”

“Alright Ace,” Bennie said as he hurried down to his room.

It was 8:50 so I knew Ben had to get over to the West Wing. “Sir, are you ready to head over to your office?”

He looked up at the clock then nodded his head. “Let me get my jacket and tie and then we can go.”

No sooner had Ben left for his room when Ed’s phone rang. After he ended the call he smiled. “Adam is downstairs with the warrant.”

The elevator doors open and in came Pete. I took him down to the living room. “Pete, I have some very distressing news.”

He was staring at me. “What has she done now?”

I hoped this wouldn’t send him off the deep end so I answered his question. “She committed computer espionage.”

“What? I can’t believe this Ace.”

“When was the last time you saw her?” I asked.

“I haven’t seen her since she shot her mouth off and got fired. Ace, I swear I don’t know what’s gotten into her?”

“I have a feeling she’s out for my hide anyway she can get it.”

“Ace, I never knew she was homophobic. I mean I had my issues but I’ve gotten over them. So what’s going to happen to her?”

“Ed had a warrant for her arrest issued.”

“How much trouble is she in?”

“A lot buddy,” I said. “Last night, she tried to hack into the Service’s computers. We found where she’d bypassed the protocols.”

“Wait a minute Ace. She isn’t the only person who had access in there?”

“To the room no, but to the keys to open the protocol server, yes,” I replied.

“How can you be so sure? Look Ace, I’m not trying to argue but.”

“I understand Pete,” I started. “To answer your statement, there was only one person who had access to that server -- your sister.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Getting into the server is harder than getting up to the residence.”

Pete hung his head. “I didn’t know Ace.”

I put my hand on his shoulder. “Until last night I didn’t either but I had my eyes opened and I learned a lot.”

“Alright but I want to be the one to arrest her.” Pete said.

“Why? I figured you’d be the last person who would want to do that.”

“Personally, I’d like to hear what she has to say for herself.”

“Pete, don’t be surprised if she doesn’t say a word.”

“True, but I know my sister. She’s never been one not to get the last word in.”

Just then Ben came out into the living room. “Good morning Agent Morgan.” Ben said.

“Good morning Sir.” Pete replied.

“Sir, Agent Morgan has asked to handle taking care of Evelyn.”

Ben looked at me then over to Pete. “Are you sure Agent Morgan?”

“I am Sir, maybe she won’t go ballistic.” Pete answered.

I couldn’t guarantee that because she always had to get the last shot in. “Sir, since Agent Morgan will be in the West Wing, could Johnny stay with Bennie?”

Just then Bennie came in. “Ace, I have that information from Jake but he asked if Billy and Timmy could come too.”

“Of course they can come.” I replied as Bennie handed me a piece of paper. “Johnny will be with you and the others love, I have some work to do in the West Wing.”

“What about Pete?”

“He will be needed too, son,” Ben answered.

I called the back gate and gave the guard the information on Jake’s car and who would be coming with him. Ben and I headed for the west wing when Johnny came in. “Johnny, while Pete and I are in the West Wing, would you stay with Bennie? He’s invited Jake and Carl as well as Carl’s foster brothers.”

“Sure thing Ace, I’ll be glad to.” Johnny replied.

Bennie gave me a quick hug. “No skinny dipping today.” I said softly into his ear.

He looked up at me and smiled then Ben and I headed for the West Wing. By the time we’d entered, it was 9AM and I was wondering if the Director and Evelyn would show up as the President ordered. I saw Ed in our office so I tapped on the window. He looked up and waved the warrant at me then tapped on the window. I stuck my head in then he motioned me over to the computer where JR was working. “Ace, you are not going to believe who that fingerprint belongs to?”

With everything that had happened I had totally forgotten about that. “Try me Ed.” I said.

JR opened the browser window and I looked at it. My head started spinning and Ed quickly got me a chair. “That’s impossible.”

“The computer can’t be wrong Ace,” JR said.

“We had that asshole last night,” I said looking at Ed.

“I know but our system was not at its best last night but don’t worry, we will get him.”

My head stopped spinning then I saw several agents heading for the door. “I think our guest is here.”

Ed and I headed for the door then waited to see who was in the car. I saw a man walk up and as soon as I did, I knew who it was. “Garcia, what are you doing here?”

“Calm down Ace, we’re on the same side here.” He answered. “We got wind of the intrusion on your computer.”

I was at a loss. “How did the FBI learn of this? Hell, we just found it last night and made all the necessary repairs as well as add new security features.”

“I can’t really say how we found out but let’s just say a little bird told us.” Garcia answered but didn’t.

“Franco, I’m in no mood for riddles.”

“Alright Agent Mason. We got a call from a Jeremy Palmer.”

Once again I felt dizzy. “What the hell is going on here?”

“Agent Mason, as you know, the FBI has a close working relationship with the CIA and lately there has been a few things that’s raised eyebrows here at the bureau.”

“So what does that have to do with Palmer? He’s been a thorn in my side.”

Garcia started laughing. “On the surface yes but he’s been our eyes and ears.”

I gasped. “He’s a mole?”

“Um, for the lack of a better term, yes.”

I swallowed hard. “I wish we’d known this. I don’t suppose you know how to contact him, do you?”

“As a matter of fact I do.”

“Good. You better call him and tell him to inspect his weapon.”

“How come?” Garcia asked.

“Well, let’s just say he better not try and use it.”

“Tell me you didn’t pull the remove the firing pin trick.”

Now it was my turn to giggle. “Umm, yeah we did.”

“If I know Palmer, he’s found it but I’ll notify him. Now, what’s this I hear that Evelyn Morgan was behind the computer fiasco?”

“You hear right and we have secured a warrant for her arrest.”

“Good, the FBI would like to take the lead on this.”

I had to think about that. “Franco, I’ll have to discuss that with Director Miller and the President.”

“Fair enough,” Garcia replied.

“Before I go, tell me how Palmer got hold of some crude Secret Service ID cards.”

“Palmer is good but he’s not that good. He bought them.”

“WHAT?” I shouted. “I can’t believe anyone would stoop that low.”

“Did you ever think Evelyn Morgan would turn her back on the Secret Service?”

“I can’t say as I could even though we had butted heads several times in the past. I have to get going, the CIA Director and Morgan are due here.”

“Alright, keep me informed about Evelyn Morgan.” Franco said then we ended the call.

“Ed, you’re not going to believe what I just learned.”

“Try me.” Ed said not happy.

“Palmer isn’t the pain he’s playing.”

“Explain Ace.” Ed asked fixing a cup of coffee.

“For lack of a better term, he’s a mole for the FBI.”

“I’d wondered if they’d managed to get someone to keep their eyes open.”

“You knew about this?” I asked almost choking on my coffee.

“I had my suspicions.” Ed replied.

“Why didn’t you tell me or Dusty?”

“Sorry Ace, but that was need to know. I just never thought in my wildest dreams Evelyn would have breached our computer security.”

I fixed another cup of coffee and thought about what he’d said. “Alright Ed, I’m just going to have to get used to you as the boss.”

“Ace, I have the whole agency to think about now. Just trust me that I’m on your side.”

“Fair enough now we have another charge against Evelyn.”

“She sold Palmer those ID cards.”

“You knew about this?”

“I did,” Ed said looking out the window.

“So why the cloak and dagger? I asked. “Why just didn’t you tell us?”

“I suppose I could have and I probably should have.” Ed relented.

“Ed you have a great team here. If there are things that have to stay quiet that’s fine but when you know something and it causes us to do loads of extra and unnecessary work, that’s when I think you should spill the beans.”

“You’re right Ace. Just remember, I’m new at this too.”

“I know buddy, and I’m glad you have the reigns now. You know I’m not a politician so I don’t believe in kissing ass.”

“I don’t either but at times I have to make concessions.”

“Just don’t buy the whole farm just to get the cow.” I said with a smile on my face.

“I won’t. Now come on, our guests have arrived.”

Ed and I stepped out of the office then moved out of the way so they could come inside. I watched as a man in a dark suit came in followed by Evelyn. Dusty and Pete took their positions and started to head towards the Oval Office. Ed and I moved behind them then Ed tapped Pete on the shoulder. Pete removed his cuffs then he and I quickly detained Evelyn. “What’s the meaning of this?” She screamed.

Pete quickly got her cuffed then took the warrant out of his pocket. “Evelyn Morgan, you are under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. If you give up that right, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to speak to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you. If you choose to answer questions without an attorney, you can stop at anytime and an attorney will be appointed for you. Knowing and understanding your rights as I have explained them to you, are you willing to answer my questions without an attorney present?”

“Director Miller, what is the meaning of this? Do you know who I am?” Steven Carlisle said.

Ed stepped up and stood nose to nose with him. “I know exactly who you are and right now I don’t care.” Ed said then looked at Evelyn. “Evelyn, I don’t know how you could turn your back on everything you swore to uphold but you did.”

“What are you going on about?” Carlisle spat.

“You should have done your homework, Director,” I started. “Evelyn sold out to who knows how many people.”

His head snapped over to Evelyn. “What the hell?”

“Oh stuff it, Steven.” She spat. “You don’t mean you don’t cut corners to get what you want?”

“I don’t break the law,” He fired back.

“Oh bullshit, I know the shortcuts you take” Evelyn said. “I know that’s why you hired me because I could get results.”

“Pete, search her purse.” Ed said.

Pete did as he was asked then removed her weapon. “Pete, hand me her bag, please.” I asked reaching my hand out.

I went over to a coffee table and dumped everything onto it. I sat down and began looking through the contents. “Hey pervert, that’s my personal property.”

Pete walked over then slapped the back of her head. “Shut up sis. You know the drill.”

“Not you too,” She said spitting in Pete’s face.

“If you spit on me one more time, I’ll forget you’re in handcuffs.”

Dusty went over to the office and returned with a face mask. He handed it to Pete then he put if over her head. “Wait a second Pete,” Dusty said.

Pete held up then Dusty quickly gagged her. She started trying to fight but Pete quickly restrained her by grabbing her by the hair of her head. “Stand still Evelyn, you brought this on yourself.”

“Fuck you,” She said as Dusty tied the gag in place.

Pete just shook his head. “Is that all you think about?”

I had to slap my hand over my mouth to keep from laughing. I found her wallet and started looking through it then she almost went ballistic as she tried to break free from Pete’s grasp but he held onto her tightly. I saw her CIA ID card then reached in and removed it. I was flabbergasted by what I saw behind it. I removed the items then handed them to Ed. “Take a look at these.”

“Evelyn how could you?” Ed asked but all she could do was put out muffled screams through the gag.

I looked at Ed. “Should I remove the gag?”

He nodded his head so Pete lifted the back of the facemask then untied the gag. As soon as it was free she started screaming. “Shut it!” Pete screamed.

Steven went over and looked at what Ed was holding in his hands. “Agent Morgan, I can’t condone this. I have no choice but to terminate you.”

“What Steven, you told me you wanted results and I was getting them for you.”

“Not by breaking into another agency’s computer.”

“Tell me you never did that.” She spat.

“Never another law enforcement agency’s computer,” Steven fired back.

“You didn’t have a problem of going into some foreign government’s computer.”

Evelyn was going into an area we didn’t need to know about. “Ms. Morgan, that’s enough.” Steven said. “Can you get the US Marshall’s service over here?”

I made the call then saw Ben coming out. “What’s all the yelling about?”

Ed and Steven went over and gave him the condensed version. He shook his head then went over to Evelyn. “I don’t know how I could have been so wrong about someone. You’ve made your bed now you’ll have to lie in it. Director Miller, I want her charged with everything.”

Ed nodded his head, “As you wish Sir.”

“Go on, send me to jail. Try to silence me. The whole world will know how sorry a President you are. This country needs a leader with balls who will do whatever it takes to protect our interests; but no we have a fag lover who cowers and runs.”

Evelyn tried to charge Ben but Pete stepped in front of him then grabbed his sister hard by the cuffs. “Shut it I told you.” Pete hollered as she screamed in pain.

I had to go over to him. “Easy buddy,” I said softly.

“Ace, I don’t know her.” Pete said as he sat down.

Ed went over and managed took control of Evelyn. “Now I want you to sit here and keep your mouth shut.” Ed said staring at her. “Ace, can you get Tonka please?”

I whistled and Tonka came trotting into the room. “Watch her boy.” I commanded as Tonka sat and stared at Evelyn.

Things were starting to settle down then my phone rang. “Agent Mason, the US Marshalls are here.”

“Let them in and have them come to the West Wing”

“Yes Sir,” The officer at the gate said then ended the call.

“The US Marshalls are here.” I said as I went over and helped get Evelyn to her feet.”

Pete and I led her over to our office so we could wait on the Marshalls. When we went inside, I pulled a chair out and sat her down. “Now sit there and behave yourself.”

“You fags think you’re something don’t you?”

Ed almost went off on her. “Stuff it Evelyn, being gay isn’t against the law and if you think the President is weak, you better think again.”

“Really,” She spat. “Just what the hell has he done, tell me.”

“He’s done quite a lot and his record is not for you to question.” Ed fired. “Your job was to lead the Secret Service.”

“That’s right and I should have never put fag Mason as that little fag’s bodyguard.”

That pissed me off and I went to nail her but Ed pulled me away and led me out of the office. “Ace, chill out, she’s trying to bait you.”

“If she keeps talking trash about Bennie, she’ll get more than she bargained for.”

Ed was shaking his head. “That’s what she wants. If you lose it and hit her, you know she’s file charges against you and then where will you be?”

I looked at the floor. “You’re right Ed. She knows Bennie is someone I care deeply about and she sure knows how to push my buttons. I know that and if you want to get me going, talk bad about him. How could I have been to taken in? She had given us a few warning signs earlier.”

“I know but she backed off and I thought she’d learned.” Ed said as he headed for the door.

Ed and I chatted outside while we waited for the US Marshalls to arrive. As soon as they arrived, Ed saw their transport. “Is that what they use?” Ed asked chuckling.

“Yeah buddy, she’ll love that again.” I said laughing.

The driver shut the vehicle off then I heard the big door open and he stepped out and stretched. “Is there someone here who needs transporting?”

The driver opened the back door and out stepped two more Marshalls. Ed and I walked up to them and shook their hands. “She’s inside,” I said leading the way.

Ed and I headed for the door with the Marshalls right behind us. The Marshall noticed she was in handcuffs. “I’ll need your key so we can put her in our cuffs.”

When we entered I handed him my key then he went over and helped her to her feet. “Don’t move now.” I said as the Marshall stepped behind her.

He released one cuff then her arm dropped to her side. “Put that hand behind your back.” Ed admonished.

“Shut up, I’m not doing anything.” Evelyn spat.

I watched as the Marshall removed the other cuff then he reached out to hand them to me. Ed took them then I reached and took Evelyn’s arm. She started squirming and then she took a kick at Ed. At that point I knew what I had to do. “Take her down.” I said putting her on her face.

“Let me go, you faggot.” She screamed kicking her feet.

I quickly put my knee into her back and put all of my weight on her as I slapped her in the back of the head.

 
“Just shut up and lie still.”

She was still putting up a fight then I heard the door open and someone grab her feet. “Cut it out now or I’ll knock you out.”

I looked up and Pete was controlling her legs. The Marshall got her hands cuffed behind her back then he reached down and tugged on them causing Evelyn to scream. “You fags haven’t heard the last of me.”

The Marshall spun her around. “Listen bitch, I’m not gay but I have friends who are so put a sock in it or I’ll personally gag you.”

She tried to spit on him but Pete slapped his hand over her mouth and pinched her nose at the same time. Evelyn finally calmed down then we led her out to their vehicle. As soon as she saw it, Evelyn started yelling again. “Hell no, I’m not going in that again.”

I had control of her right arm. “Oh yes you are, one way or another you’re going in there. So it’s your decision on how.”

“So help me fag, I will get you. I’ll get you all.”

Evelyn decided to act like a spoiled brat. She decided to try to drop to the ground but Pete had her other arm then reached for the cuffs and gave a little tug. The Marshall came over and put her in ankle chains then we lifted her into the back of the vehicle. “Evelyn, now sit down.” Pete shouted at her.

“I don’t know you Pete. You used to hate Mason but now you’ve become a candy ass.”

Pete had taken about all he could stand. He reached inside his jacket and pulled out his taser. “No Pete.” I shouted bringing his arm down.”

The Marshall went inside and secured Evelyn to the seat then let the driver know they were ready to go. We watched as the armored car took off with Evelyn safely inside. I looked at Pete then put my arm around his shoulder. “You did good buddy.”

Pete stood there shaking his head. “I hated doing that but I just don’t know what’s gotten into her. I mean look, I can’t say as I understand how a guy can love another guy but I’ve come to realize it’s not a choice someone makes. Besides, how can I tell someone what they can or can’t do in the privacy of their bedroom? I know I wouldn’t want someone telling me that.”

“Pete, you’re right. It’s not a choice someone makes to be gay. You know full well the grief gays take and that the number one cause of teen deaths today is suicide.”

“I do Ace and every time I read of some kid killing themselves it makes me sad because that’s a young life lost.”

I broke into a big smile. “Pete, you never cease to amaze me buddy.”

“Thanks Ace, I had a lot of time to think about things after being shot and I knew I wasn’t ready to toss my career with the Service down the drain.”

“Pete you’re a good agent and we’re all really glad to have you with us.”

“Ace, just what did Evelyn do?” Pete asked.

“I’m not totally sure of the full extent of her crimes but she did create an access so the protocol server could be compromised.”

Pete shook his head. “She could be charged with espionage.”

“Yes she could and will be because there is a portion of the main server dedicated to the President’s private work.”

“Some of that deals with National Security.” Pete added.

“You’re right so if that fell into the wrong hands,” I started.

“I don’t want to think about that.” Pete finished as we returned to the West Wing.

I looked around and didn’t see Ben or Dusty so I decided to walk around to the Oval Office. When I went into the outer office Dusty and Tonka were sitting there relaxing. “Ace, did Evelyn finally get taken away?”

I nodded my head. “Yes she did and I hope that is the last we hear from her.”

“I hope you’re right but I can’t imagine her just sitting in jail being a quiet inmate.”

“Shh, don’t say that out loud.” I giggled fixing myself a cup of coffee. “Fred, please let the President know I’m out here.”

A few minutes later, the door opened. “Ace, will you join us in here please?”

I finished my coffee then went into the Oval Office. “Things have finally settled down Sir.” I said sitting on the sofa. “Mr. Carlisle, we have a major problem now.”

“What do you mean, Agent...?” He replied.

“Mason,” I started. “Your agent tried to sabotage the Service’s computer.”

“And you know this how?” He started trying to protect his agency.

“Steven, don’t go there.” Ben said interrupting. “Yours isn’t the only agency with top flight computer technicians.”

“Maybe not Sir but ours are the best.” Carlisle countered.

“Knock it off,” I said looking at the CIA director. “We have rock solid evidence of who did what and when.”

He sighed. “Alright, what is it you need?”

“Mr. President, may we get Agent Carl in here?” I asked.

“Make it happen Ace.” Ben replied so I called JR and asked him to come to the Oval Office.

While we were waiting on JR, I got myself a cup of coffee. I had just sat down when we heard a knock on the outer door. I got up and opened the door then JR came in. “You needed to see me Sir?” JR asked Ben.

“Yes Agent Carl. Have you been able to determine to what extent our server was compromised?”

“Not yet Sir,” JR started. “The only thing I’ve been able to determine is where the attack started from.”

“And where was that?” Ben asked.

JR looked over at Steven. “I think you should ask him.” JR replied in an accusing voice.

Ben glared at the CIA Director. “What have you got to say for yourself?”

Carlisle raised his hands. “I had no idea Mr. President.”

“Damn it Steven, you know the buck stops with you!” Ben shot, not happy.

“I know Sir but I wasn’t even at the office when it happened.”

“No excuse,” JR interrupted as Ben’s head snapped over to JR. “I apologize, Mr. President.”

“Agent Carl is right, you're not being there is NO excuse. Now how are we going to resolve this?” Ben asked as we all sat there not saying a word. “WELL?”

JR took a deep breath. “Well Mr. President, if I may.”

“Go on Agent Carl.” Ben replied.

“The easiest way would be to look at the computer terminal Evelyn Morgan used.”

Steven got indignant. “That’s out of the question!”

“Oh and why is that?” Ben asked.

“Sir, our computers have highly sensitive intelligence on them and we can’t just open them up to just anyone.”

Ben was doing a slow boil. “So how do you propose we find out?”

“I can have our technicians go over our computers and we can let you know what, if anything was found.”

“Unacceptable,” Ben said strongly.

“Why Sir?” Steven asked.

“Because our computers have highly sensitive information on them too,” Ben countered.

“With all due respect Mr. President, our agency deals with the most sensitive information.”

“I don’t think so. Do you know everything the National Security Council has?”

“Well, no Sir we don’t” Steven answered.

“I didn’t think so. So how are we going to resolve this?”

JR meekly raised his hand, “If I might offer a suggestion?”

“I’m all ears JR.” Ben said.

“Well Sir, I don’t think the NSC has the technicians capable of doing this so how about a multi-team unit go over that terminal.”

“Not a chance,” Steven shouted.

“You’re standing on some very thin ice Steven.” Ben said, "And I hear it starting to crack."

“Sir, if you’re not pleased with my work.”

“We’ll not go into that right now. Now I want a solution to this fiasco.”

Steven sighed knowing he was in a no win situation. “Very well Mr. President. We’ll need time to get security clearances on anyone on this team.”

“EXCUSE ME!” Ben shouted.

“That’s right Sir, we can’t have just anyone come into our most highly secured areas.”

I couldn’t hold my tongue any longer. “So you hire Evelyn Morgan? If she was vetted, as you say, you’d have known the stunt she tried to pull and the fact she was held in contempt and had to serve 2 days in jail. I for one would like to see her personnel file.”

Ben nodded his head. “Mr. Director, I want that file here pronto.”

Steven couldn’t say a thing. “Very well Mr. President. Who are the people you have in mind?”

Ben looked at Steven. “Agent Carl will be representing the Secret Service. You can pick a tech provided he doesn’t interfere with the process.”

“Agreed Mr. President,” Steven relented. “When can we get this started?”

“I’ll call my National Security Advisor and have him recommend someone on his team. Once that’s been done, I want that computer terminal gone over with a fine tooth comb. Steven, you better hope and pray Agent Carl was able to stop Evelyn before she managed to invade the main server.”

All he could do was nod his head. “I understand Mr. President.”

Ben looked at JR and me. “Agents Mason and Carl, you may go about your duties now. Thank you for your assistance.”

JR and I stood up then left the office as Ben picked up his phone. “This is President Jacobs; may I speak to Mr. Jamison please?”

Ben was placed on hold then a voice came on. “Yes Mr. President, how may I help you?”

“John, I have a small problem I need your help with.”

“Yes Sir, what can I do?”

“Well, it seems the Secret Service has traced an attempt on the Service’s computers back to the CIA.”

“Oh my god Sir, how can that have happened?”

“I’m not totally sure but the problem was spotted and corrected. The head of our technical team is very good and talented. The only thing he isn’t sure of is did the hacker manage to get any sensitive information.”

“Well Sir, your files are hidden deep and have a firewall around them so tight it would take a damn good hacker to access them.” John replied.

“That makes me feel better John. I have to ask, how do you know so much about our computer system?”

“Well Sir, this office worked very closely with the Service when that system was implemented. We gave our input on how secure certain areas should be and they made it happen. We have a couple of excellent computer technicians here and they can access those files and back them up in case the system should ever crash. We know your files are highly sensitive and are irreplaceable.”

“Might I ask a favor?”

“Ask away Sir.” John replied.

“Could you bring Special Agent in Charge JR Carl up to speed and get him access to these files?”

There was a long pause. “Well Sir, normally that isn’t done because of the sensitive nature of your files. Those are a lot more than just your schedules and things like that.”

“I understand that John.” Ben replied.

“Mr. President, with all due respect I feel the fewer people that have access to those files and know of their existence the better.”

Ben was digesting everything his National Security Advisor had just told him. “Alright John, this is why you’re in the position you’re in.”

“Thank your Sir, now what else can I do for you?”

“Could you have one of your top flight computer tech’s work with Agent Carl and an agent from the CIA while they go over the terminal that was used to try to hack into ours?”

“Of course, I know just the person. William Thomas is my head technician and has all the necessary security clearances to see anything the CIA might have.”

“Excellent,” Ben said smiling.

Ben gave John JR’s phone number so William could hook up with him then he ended that call. The next thing Ben did was to call JR and let him know about the final member of the team he wanted.

JR and I were in our office in the west wing. “Ace, we have the team now.”

“That’s super buddy now you’ll be able to find out just how far Evelyn managed to get.”

“Well, I don’t know how much you heard but the President’s most sensitive files are held in a very secure area on the server.”

“How secure?” I asked.

“Well, it’s so secure I didn’t even know about it. Only the National Security Advisor knows of its existence.”

“I guess the fewer people that know about it the better.” I replied finishing my coffee then noticed the time. “Oh god, I better get to the residence.”

JR looked at the clock. “You better hurry man. You don’t want Gloria on your case.”

Just then, my phone rang. “Yes baby.”

“Ace, it’s almost lunch time and the cooks have prepared a huge buffet.”

“A buffet,” I asked.

“Yep and she expects it all to be eaten.”

“Alright love; I’ll help see to it that it is.” I replied then ended the call. “JR, I hope you’re hungry.”

He looked at me and smiled. “You know I love Gloria’s cooking. Is that an invitation?”

“Yeah it is so let’s get going. Don’t forget to shut down your computer.”

“I’m doing that right now. I’ve sent out a memo to everyone informing them that all computer terminals are to be properly shut down when they’re not in use.”

“Does this include laptops or can closing the lid be good enough?” I asked.

“Well, I’d prefer they were shut down.”

I raised my hand. “Say no more. I’ll let Bennie know this as soon as we’re in the residence.”

JR and I left the office and headed to the residence. As soon as we entered, I was greeted by Bennie. “Where’s Tonka?”

“He’s with Johnny and Pete who are working in the treaty room.”

JR put his hand on Bennie’s shoulder. “Bennie, do you shut your laptop down when you’re done using it or do you just close the lid?”

“Well, I used to close the lid but since all this hacking started, I’m shutting it down and keeping it super clean.”

“Perfect,” JR said smiling and then headed to the treaty room.

Bennie and I went to his room and got cleaned up for lunch. When we went into the dining room it looked like there was a huge feast. “I told you love, they were making a buffet.”

“You weren’t wrong there, baby. Do you know where Dusty is?”

“I’m not sure but I think I heard him tell Pete he was heading over to the school.”

I looked at the floor. With everything that had happened I’d forgotten to get over there and install those eye bolts. JR and Pete came out of the treaty room. “Better get washed up for lunch.”

When they returned Dusty, Johnnie and Ben came in. “Did you get everything done you needed to Sir?” I asked.

Ben nodded his head but I could tell his mind was a million miles away. I thought it best to let it go then I heard Gloria. “Lunch time everyone.”

When Ben went in I don’t think he expected what he saw. “My god Gloria, what have we here?”

“I’m just using some of the leftovers. We have sliced corned beef, roast beef, chicken and I even made you your favorite chicken salad.”

Ben went over and hugged her. “What will we ever do without you?”

She smiled, “I’m not going anywhere any time soon.”

“I know that but one day it will. You’ve been with me for ages and Bennie won’t take to just anyone.”

“Sir, he’s almost all grown up now.”

“I know that but he’s still picky about who cooks for him.”

“I’ve spoiled my mijo,” Gloria started. “I might know of someone.”

“Alright Gloria, we can talk about that later.”

“Yes we can now you get your lunch.” She said playfully popping him on his butt.

After Ben fixed his plate the rest of us dug in. I managed to polish off three sandwiches and Bennie put a serious hurting on two. Gloria even spoiled Tonka by fixing him a special bowl of roast beef.

When lunch was over, everyone went back to work. JR came up to me with a concern. “Ace, do you think we should get a search warrant for Evelyn Morgan’s place?”

I hadn’t given that much thought but it was a very good idea. “Yes we should, since she decided to turn her back on the law and the service, she’s no better than any other person arrested besides, there could be evidence on her home computer. I’ll call Ed and have him apply for the warrant.”

I called Ed and he agreed about getting the search warrant. Once that was done, I got back up with Pete to learn what they found at the residence of Gale Granger. I found him with Dylan Masters inventorying the property. “What all did you find?”

“Ace, there is a gold mine of incriminating evidence here.” Dylan said.

“Such as,” I asked.

He pointed to a safe. “That safe weighs a ton so I’m wondering just what is in there.”

I looked at the safe and there was a digital lock on it and that told me the possible combination of numbers was endless. “Do either of you have expertise to crack that safe?”

They shook their heads. “If it had a dial lock on it I probably could.” Dylan said. “Maybe JR has a program that could get us into it.”

I hadn’t thought of that. “I guess he’s the master of all things electronics.” I replied then gave him a call.

He said he’d be right here. When he arrived he had an electronic device with him. Dylan and Pete went about their inventory while I stayed out of the way and watched. After several minutes, JR said, “Holy shit.”

Everyone stopped and looked inside the safe. “Holy shit is right. I’ve never see that much cash in one place at one time.”

“Anyone care to guess how much is in there?” Pete asked.

“I’d say well over a million dollars,” Dylan said. “But I’d love to know how he managed to amass that much cash.”

“It’s going to take hours with cash counters to count that money.” Pete said.

“I know and we’re going to need to get Adam over here so we can start seizure proceedings.” I said as I pulled out my phone.

Adam was working on the search warrant for Evelyn’s place then he said he’d be over. Pete looked over to me. “Ace, all this isn’t going to put a damper on your vacation plans is it?”

“Not if I can help it and this isn’t going to put a damper on Bennie’s graduation either.” I replied.

I had to call the FBI about the money in the safe but decided to wait until I spoke with Adam. JR handed me a piece of paper. “This is the combination so you can open it any time you need to.”

I closed the safe then put some “Evidence” tape over the handle so we would know if someone tried to sneak a peek inside. I then had Pete get several agents to move this evidence into the property room in our office in the West Wing.

I returned to the office and looked over the inventory list from Granger’s place. Pete came in then set several ledgers on the table. “Ace, we might need an accountant to look at these.”

I opened the books and started flipping through the pages. I couldn’t make any sense of the notations but the numbers appeared to be money amounts. The dates went back years, long before I was an agent and Ben was elected President. “You’re right Pete; the FBI has accountants that do nothing but sort through things like this.”

The last thing I wanted was the FBI involved since Dale Morris had me in his gun sights. It was just after 3PM when the back gate told me Adam was here. I waited patiently for him to arrive then I took him to our evidence room. I created an entry log for the safe so anyone having a reason to open it had to make a notation on the log. I opened the safe and Adam gasped, “Holy shit.”

“Now do you see why I called you?” I asked.

“Yeah, but I’d have never expected to see all of this.” Adam said kneeling in front of the safe.

“So how do we deal with this?” I asked.

“Where was this found?” Adam asked.

“This was seized at the residence of Gale Grainger.”

“Well, he’ll have to have documented proof of how this money was obtained through legal means. If he can’t, it will be seized.”

“There are ledgers that were found too.”

Adam’s eyes lit up. “Oh really, we have a forensic accountant that specializes in going through ledgers.”

“I’ll tell you this now, there are dates that go way back so whatever this is, it goes back years.”

“Well, the first thing we need to do is get a count of all this cash then I can get our accountant to go over those ledgers.”

“When all is said and done, who will end up with the money?” I asked.

“Well, I’m sorry to say it won’t be split with the agents who found it. More than likely it will go to the treasury.”

I was hoping it could go to the Service’s operating budget, depending on how much is there.”

“That is a possibility but in the end, it’ll be up to the court.” Adam answered.

Now, tell me all of this won’t put a crimp on my vacation plans.” I asked.

Adam thought for a moment. “I don’t think it should. The worse that could happen is we’d have to phone you but those could be kept to a bare minimum.”

“I hope so. This vacation means a lot to the both of us.”

“You know Ace you almost put yourself and the President into one hell of a bind.”

I let out a big sigh. “Don’t remind me buddy and that was the last thing I ever wanted to do.”

Adam put his hand on my shoulder. “I know that and Evelyn even tried to take a pot shot at you and the President. In all honesty, I’m glad Bennie’s age came out so everyone can go pound sand. Ace, the next thing is getting this money counted.”

“I’ll call Ed and informed him about this and in the mean time, I’ll post agents outside here with instructions no one is to go in without a clear reason and then every agent must sign in and out and everything they do will be witnessed by another agent.”

Adam looked around the room. “Look buddy, there are closed circuit cameras in here.”

“So you’re right.” I replied “But agents will still be posted on the door.”

The next thing I did was call Dylan Masters. I wanted two of his men to guard this room around the clock until the money was counted and then deposited. He assured me that he would have men posted.

It had been several days since Grainger had been out of surgery so I wanted to know if he still needed to be in the hospital or could he finish recovering in a jail cell. I called the Marshalls Service and they said they would look into it and let me know.

No sooner was I off my phone when Adam’s went off. “What, how?”

I didn’t like what I was hearing even though I didn’t know who he was talking to. “Shit, how bad?” I heard Adam ask.

“I thought she was in isolation.” Adam fired back.

I was getting the gist of the conversation but didn’t know who he was talking about. “Look, I want her in isolation away from everyone, do I make myself clear?”

Adam closed his phone then sat down. “Alight buddy, what happened?” I asked.

“Well, it seems Evelyn was shooting her mouth off and when she was taken to lunch, some of the females took exception to her ranting.”

I didn’t like where this was heading. “Tell me she didn’t get stabbed.”

“No, but she got the hell beat out of her before the Marshalls could get over to break it up.”

“How bad,” I asked.

“Bad enough,” Adam replied. “She took a lot of punches to her face and jaw. She’s in the infirmary and will get her jaw x-rayed.”

I started giggling. “Well, that’s one way to shut her up.”

Adam glared at me. “That’s not funny.”

‘I thought so.’ I thought to myself.

“Yeah maybe but I’m wondering just what she was spouting that caused her to get her ass kicked.”

“I don’t know. I’m going to have to go over there and interview those who were behind this and decide what charges to file.”

“If she shot her mouth off about gays that could have been the reason,” I said thinking out loud.

“Whatever the reason, I can’t have her being assaulted.” Adam said not happy with me.

“I don’t disagree but if she shoots her mouth off then she’s bringing it on herself. I’ll be damned if she’ll shoot her mouth off and then whine and demand special treatment.”

Adam was thinking about what I’d said. “You’re right Ace. She’s going to have to learn how to get along because she’ll be there for a very long time.”

It was after 3 so Adam took off for the jail. I had to notify Ed so I made that call. He wasn’t happy then suggested about the possibility of Witness Protection.”

“Ed, she’s not a proper candidate for that program.” I said.

“Why not,” Ed asked.

“Because she won’t go with the program. She’s already shooting her mouth off and I don’t think she’d keep it shut if she went into protection. She’s just going to learn to survive.”

“Have you told Pete yet?”

“No, I just learned of this while Adam was here and you were the first one I notified.”

“Alright Ace, I have agents on their way over with cash counters so they can get started on counting the money in that safe.”

“Sounds good and Adam said they have a forensic accountant who can go over the ledgers that were found along with the safe.”

“Ace, I need to see those ledgers.” Ed said.

“Alright boss, we can get those transferred into your possession. Can I ask why?”

“Sorry Ace.” Ed said.

“Are we going into a grey area?” I asked.

“Something like that.” He replied.

“OK just answer me this then, when all the dust has settled will you be able to fill me in?”

“Maybe,” Ed started. “Once I learn everything, I might.”

“Look, I don’t know how much cash is in that safe but I think it should go to the Secret Service.” I said.

“Ace, if it’s at all possible, I’ll make sure it is.”

“Thanks buddy,” I said then ended the call.

The next thing I had to do was tell Pete about his sister getting her ass kicked. I told JR I was going to the residence then started heading there. On the way, I saw two men standing outside the property room. I hurried back to the office and got the ledgers so they could be secured. When I walked up, I showed the guard my credentials then signed the log. I logged the ledgers back in then turned and left and signed out.

On the way, I bumped into Dusty. “Hi buddy, what’s this about a safe full of money?”

“It doesn’t take long for the scuttle to get around, does it?” I asked.

“Not when several million dollars suddenly appears.” Dusty fired off.

“I know and that’s why the property room has guards posted outside.”

“What’s this I hear about Evelyn getting her ass kicked?” Dusty asked.

“How’d you hear of this?” I asked.

“I am the agent in charge.” Dusty said smiling.

“OK but the last thing we need is someone spreading rumors or giving out information that is supposed to be confidential. Who told you this?”

Dusty just stood there and I saw him blush. “Umm it was JR.”

“OK buddy, please talk to him.”

“Don’t worry Ace, I already did. I don’t want him being known as someone who tells tales out of school.”

I felt better. “Thanks man. Now I have to tell Pete about his sister and I don’t look forward to it either.”

“Do you want me to do this?” Dusty volunteered.

“Thanks man but this is something I think I’d better do.” I said as we entered the residence.

As we went through the doors, I looked in the living room. Bennie and Pete were busy playing a video game. They were so engrossed in the game they didn’t notice us standing there until Tonka came up and gave us away causing Bennie to look up. “Ace, you’re back.”

Bennie set his controller down when ran over to hug me. I gave him a kiss then got close to his ear. “Lover, I have to talk to Pete. Can you give us some time alone, please?”

This time Bennie didn’t argue. “Alright baby.”

Bennie headed to his room while I went over and sat down beside Pete. He looked over at me. “What’s going on Ace?”

I took a deep breath then motioned for him to follow me. I headed for the dining room and fixed a cup of coffee and got one for Pete too. I took a sip then sat down. “I don’t know how to say this easily so I’ll just come out with it.”

“Is it about Evelyn?” Pete asked.

I nodded my head. “Yes it is. It seems she was shooting her mouth off.”

“Let me guess,” Pete said interrupting. “Someone kicked her ass.”

I sighed then took a sip of my coffee. “Yes and they did a number on her face and jaw.”

Pete stood up and slammed the chair into the table. I was worried this would be the straw that sent him off the deep end. “Damn her,” Pete shouted. “She did this all to herself. I don’t feel the least bit sorry for her. If she doesn’t learn to keep her big trap shut she’ll get killed. Ace, I want to see her.”

“She’s in the infirmary and Adam is heading over to the jail.”

“That’s fine but come on Ace; that is my sister, after all.”

“Alright Pete, calm down now. You can go over and see her if you want.”

“Thanks Ace and she’s going to get a piece of my mind too.”

I couldn’t blame him. “Just don’t let her bait you now.”

“I won’t.” Pete said finishing his coffee. “Will you be here now?”

I know why he asked so I nodded my head. Pete headed for the elevator then I went to my room to get out of my vest.

To be continued...