Page 33 of Backwater Justice
“We can’t afford a trip like that.”
“You don’t have to. Myra and I will take care of all the details.”
“I don’t understand,” Julie said.
“In addition to our network, we have resources that can provide safe and discreet travel and accommodations.”
The Rowans had no idea who they were dealing with, and the expressions on their faces showed tremendous confusion.
“I know it may be difficult, but you’re going to have to trust us.”
Mark and Julie had bewildered looks until Vanessa spoke up. “Mom, Dad, these ladies helped me. I wouldn’t be here now if it weren’t for them.” She let out a huge sigh. “I don’t know where I’d be, actually. I mean for real. If that guy at the hospital saw me, I could be back in that dungeon, or worse.” Her eyes were pleading.
“I guess we’re going to have to go along with Vanessa,” Mark said. Julie agreed. “So what should we do next?”
“The two of you go back to your house and pack a bag for each of you. Say three or four days’ worth of clothes. Bring some shampoo and a blow-dryer so Vanessa doesn’t look like grunge gone overboard. Also, a baseball cap and sunglasses for her. Bring everything back here. Once we get Vanessa sorted, someone will drive you to the airport.”
“What about tickets?” Mark asked.
“You’ll be on my private jet, which is about to land any minute now.” She checked her watch. “My pilot will bring you to Tahoe, where a car will meet you at the airport. A person will have a sign that says ‘Lady’s Friends’.”
Myra jumped in. “My dog. We don’t want your names to be bandied about anywhere.”
Vanessa giggled. “I like dogs.”
Annie continued with the instructions. “The driver will take you to a privately owned lodge. We don’t want you to stay at a hotel. Vanessa could be recognized. The kitchen will be stocked with food and beverages. There are fresh linens on the beds and in the bathrooms. There’s Wi-Fi and several televisions, also a bookcase filled with a large selection of reading material. There’s a laundry room behind the kitchen. If you need anything, there is a name and number next to a landline in the kitchen. Please, whatever you do, do not go off the property. As I said, we can’t risk someone identifying you.” Annie observed the baffled expressions on their faces. “Any questions?” There were none. “Okay, then. All good?”
“Very good,” Mark said, and shook Annie’s hand and then Myra’s.
“Be back in a flash.” Julie smiled at her daughter and gave her a gentle hug.
Once they were gone, Vanessa looked up at Myra and Annie. “Who are you guys?”
Myra and Annie hooted. “Just a couple of gals, visiting a friend in Oregon.”
Within the hour, the Rowans returned with a couple of weekender bags, shampoo, and blow-dryer. Mark waited outside while Julie tended to her daughter. Julie helped her off the table and walked her over to the sink, where she proceeded to wash Vanessa’s hair, being mindful not to get soap near the bandages. “I remember when you used to love having me do this.”
“Me too, Mom.” Vanessa had never imagined she would be this happy to be around her parents.
Annie called a car service to bring the Rowans to the airport. “We’ll be in touch. We’re going to need more information, but it’s better if you skedaddle for now.” She looked at Julie. “Let me put my number in your phone and vice versa. I want you to contact me if anything, and I do mean anything, comes up that doesn’t seem right.” Annie and Myra looked everyone in the eye.
“Got it?” Myra asked.
“Got it!” Vanessa said.
Myra and Annie held up their hands for a group high five. They walked the family to the car. “Try to relax and enjoy each other.”
Vanessa wrapped her arms around Annie. “Thanks for saving me.” Then she turned to Myra and gave her a big hug.
“You guys rule!”
The family settled into the back seat while the driver stowed their luggage in the trunk. Everyone waved as they pulled away.
Annie’s phone vibrated. Maggie had sent Annie a text:
On our way to hotel. See you in a bit.
Annie sent a text to the pilot:Reserved rooms for you and the crew at the Marriott Grand. Fifteen minutes from airport. Enjoy & relax. Don’t want you going over your limit.