Little Rock

“That can’t be the right plane.” Lindsey says as they pull into the tiny local airport.

Robert glances quickly out the window, taking in the turboprop Beechcraft that Lindsey is mentioning. “What’s wrong with it?” He asks.

“It’s not even a jet.” Lindsey says. “And it’s tiny.”

“It’s an eight seater.” Robert says. “It’s a perfectly acceptable model, and supposedly it’s very reliable. I looked it up when they sent over the details.”

“Your company couldn’t get us a real jet?” Lindsey pushes. “This thing will probably take forever to get to Arkansas.”

Robert sighs, and is about to reply, when Amber saves him the trouble. “If flying in the plane is beneath you, I don’t think it’s too late to call Jack to see about putting you in the auction here on consignment. How would you like us to explain it to your grandmother?”

“I’ll get on the fucking plane.” Lindsey huffs.

“Teacher said a bad word.” Isabel says, tugging on Amber’s shirt to get her attention.

“I know.” Amber says, looking back to glare at Lindsey. “Teacher needs a bit of a timeout, I think.”

“Agreed.” Robert says as he pulls the van to a stop. Turning around to make eye contact with her, he continues. “Lindsey, it’s fine to be frustrated, but part of your job here is to set a good example for Isabel, and any other kids we have. That’s your one free pass. If it happens again, you can fully expect Jane to invent a very unpleasant punishment.”

“And if I refuse to be punished?” Lindsey asks.

Robert sighs. “Why don’t you and I talk outside?”

Without waiting for a reply, he opens his door, climbing out of the van. After a few moments, the van door opens, and Lindsey emerges, slamming it behind her.

“What is your problem, exactly?” Robert asks. “I mean, I know, you have a lot of problems, more even than most of the other girls. But I feel like we’ve done a lot for you, and Amber nearly worked herself to **** at your grandmother’s house, and ever since then, you’ve been a real bitch to all of us.”

“I miss my husband.” Lindsey says, tears beginning to form.

“I get it.” Robert says, struggling to restrain his natural impulse to comfort a crying woman. “But this cannot continue. You may have noticed that Jane has less patience than I do. If you pull this shit at home, she will send your ass packing, without a moment’s hesitation. And that’s also what she will do if you refuse a punishment, by the way.”

Tears begin to fall as Lindsey blubbers. “You can’t let her sell me.”

“Don’t do that.” Robert says, losing his patience with her. “Especially not with Jane. Crying will only make her angry.”

The tears stop instantly, and Lindsey’s face grows serious.

After a moment, Robert says. “All we ask is that you teach kids a few hours a day, and not cause trouble. You don’t need to worry about travel, because I promise, you aren’t going on any other trips any time soon. Can you do that? Because if not, we need to find a new teacher.”

“I can do it.” Lindsey says, after a moment of hesitation.

“I hope so.” Robert says. “Because right now, you are the weak link in the house. Everyone else contributes in some way. You’ve been skating by, and now that we have Isabel, that stops.”

Robert stops, glancing up as he sees movement near the plane. He sees a woman in a pilot’s uniform waving at them while walking in their direction.

“We need to get moving.” Robert says. “I’d suggest you keep to yourself on the flight. Take some time to sort yourself out. Keep in mind, this flight is chartered by my work. If we have issues on it, there will be consequences, for both of us.”

Stepping back to the van, he opens the side door. “Ok, time to load up. Everyone grab a bag. I’m going to talk to the pilot.”

Trusting Amber and Lucia to handle things, Robert walks to meet the pilot. When he gets close enough, she says. “Robert Wolfe?”

“That’s me.” Robert says. Gesturing behind him, he says. “They are grabbing the baggage.”

“We’ve got seven passengers total, correct?” The pilot asks.

“That’s correct.” Robert says.

“Great.” The pilot says. “If you’ll just bring the baggage to the open door at the back, we’ll get it loaded for you, and then we can get going.”

“I need to drop off the rental van.” Robert says.

“Just give the keys to the guy at the desk in the FBO.” The pilot says, pointing to the building in front of the van. “He’ll make sure it gets returned.”

“Ok…” Robert says, turning to tell the girls where to take the luggage, before going inside. As he does, he is immediately greeted by a slightly younger man.

“Mr. Wolfe, what can we do for you?” He asks.

Robert stares at him, initially wondering how the guy knows his name, before realizing that their arrival was expected. “I need to return my rental van.”

“We can take care of that for you.” The man says. “If you’ll just give me the keys, I’ll have one of our guys drive it to the rental agency.”

“Just like that?” Robert asks.

“Absolutely.” The man says. “Is there anything else we can do for you? Coffee? Snacks? We have some donuts and bagels coming, they should be here in a few minutes.”

“I’m good.” Robert says. “We grabbed something on the way.”

After a moment, Robert turns to leave. “Enjoy your flight, Sir.” The man calls after him.

Robert walks back to the plane, and sees that everyone is gathered in front of the pilot, who is talking to Isabel.

“You have a delightful daughter.” She says as he approaches. “Can I give her a tour of the cockpit?”

“Please!” Isabel asks, looking up at him.

“Go ahead.” Robert says. “Did we get everything out of the van already?”

“I double checked.” Emily says.

“Then I think we are ready, unless anyone needs to hit the bathroom.” Robert says.

“I do.” Lucia says. After a few other mutters of agreement, Robert turns to Amber. “Isabel should probably go too, right?”

“Probably.” She says.

“I’ll take the rest of you, and you can bring Isabel in when she’s done with her tour.” Robert says.

Amber nods, and the group heads inside. Spotting the restroom, Lucia makes a beeline in that direction.

“Sir.” The man who greeted him earlier says. “Sir.”

“Yes?” Robert asks, turning to face him.

“I’m very sorry, but that restroom is only for citizens.” The man says, looking decided unapologetic.

Robert stares at him, while the woman all pause, looking back at Robert for direction.

Lucia whispers something, and Samira says. “Lucia really needs a bathroom, Master.”

“Well?” Robert says.

“There are employee restrooms they can use.” The man admits. “I’ll show you.”

Robert looks back at the girls, prepared to make a fuss, when he notices how unwell Lucia looks. “Show us.” He says quickly.

When they finally arrive at the employee bathrooms, Lucia runs in, followed by Samira.

“Did you know she was still sick?” Robert asks Lindsey and Emily.

“It hasn’t really been getting better, Master.” Emily says.

“Do they have any idea what it is?” Robert asks. “Did she catch something? Or is it stress from all of the travel?”

“I think Samira can best answer that one.” Emily says.

Robert glances at Lindsey, who smiles malevolently and shrugs.

The man from the front hangs out for a moment, clearly torn between manning the front desk, and making sure they didn’t wander around the building. Eventually, he makes his way back to the front.

When Lucia and Samira emerge, Emily and Lindsey take their turn.

“Are you ok now?” Robert asks Lucia, concern filling his voice.

“I will be.” Lucia says, voice hoarse.

“I need to give her some more meds before we get on the plane.” Samira says. “And a few crackers or something probably wouldn’t hurt.”

“I’ll see what we can get out of the bigot at the front when we are done here.” Robert says.

“Thank you.” Lucia says quietly.

Robert moves to pull her into a hug, but she steps back. “I need to change when we get on the plane. Can you hold me after that, though?”

“Of course.” Robert says, glancing around. “Do you want me to take you back now?”

“We should probably stick together.” Samira says.

“Probably.” Robert admits.

When Emily and Lindsey emerge, Robert leads the group back to the front desk. Seeing the front desk attendant, Robert says. “You mentioned snacks and drinks earlier. Where are those?”

“What can I get for you, Sir?” The man asks.

“I’d like to take a look before I decide.” Robert says.

The man points to a nearby door, and Robert and the girls enter, finding a small kitchen area, with snacks neatly arranged on the counter, coffee machines, and a cooler with various sodas. Reaching inside, Robert grabs several, handing them back to the girls.

“Those are for citizens, Sir.” The attendant says.

“I’m very thirsty.” Robert says. “I may as well put the non-citizens to use by having them carry my drinks, right?”

The man glowers, but doesn’t interrupt as Robert grabs a few more drinks, and then begins grabbing random snacks. When everyone except Lucia’s arms are full, Robert turns back to the door. “I think that will get me through to Little Rock.” He laughs, nearly running into the attendant when he doesn’t move quickly enough from the doorway.

With the girls following, Robert reaches the front door, before he hears the attendant exclaim. “Hey!”

Turning, Robert sees the attendant striding towards Amber and Isabel, who are emerging from the ‘citizen only’ restrooms.

“Those are for citizens only!” The attendant says loudly. “Did you not see the signs? She shouldn’t be in there.”

Robert stops, turning to face them. “Amber, please take Isabel and wait in the plane.” He says calmly. As they shuffle past, Robert looks at the attendant. “That’s my daughter. If for some reason we have to come back in here, I don’t want to see you. If I find out you’ve said one more word to any of my girls, we are going to have a serious problem.”

“Sir, we have rules here.” The attendant insists.

“Fuck your rules.” Robert says. Turning to the door, he adds. “And fuck you.”

*****

Reyna yawns, and stretches, opening her eyes to see the scenery going by at a rapid clip.

“Do you want me to take a turn?” She asks.

“Let’s get lunch at the next stop, and then we can switch. I want to get through Memphis first, and into Arkansas.” Jane says. “I’ll admit, I’m exhausted. It’s been a while since I left the house at Two A.M. for a road trip.”

“I still think we should have brought Alexia.” Reyna says. “She could have helped with the driving, and she really didn’t want to stay behind.”

“I need her there. She’s assertive enough to keep my sister in check, without causing a confrontation like Mei might.” Jane says. “And before you say, ‘we could have brought Taylor’, she’s needed there too, now that they lost their vet.”

“I’ll get us there.” Reyna says. “Are you ok?”

“I’m just really sore.” Jane says. “I hope the hotel room has a decent tub, I could use a few hours in nearly boiling water.”

“Maybe they’ll have a hot tub.” Reyna says cheerily. “I wouldn’t mind sitting in one for a while.”

“That does sound delightful.” Jane agrees.

*****

Robert wakes up when the plane touches down, finding Lucia’s head resting against his shoulder. She yawns, before tilting her head back to look at him. “Thank you.” She mouths.

Robert leans down to kiss her forehead, and whispers. “I love you.”

“Love you too.” She says back, quietly. “What time is it?”

Robert pulls out his phone. “Two P.M. local time.”

“I slept that long?” Lucia asks.

“We lost two hours because of time zones.” Robert says. “You only slept a few hours.”

“Is that our van?” Emily asks, looking back at him while pointing out the window.

Robert leans forward in his seat, trying to see through the window in front of the double seat that he and Lucia are occupying. “I think it is…”

“You think they all came out to get us?” Lucia asks quietly. “It’s going to be tight on the way back.”

“I can see Jane, I think.” Samira says. “And Reyna maybe?”

“I think so.” Emily says.

As the plane reaches the end of the runway and taxis around, Robert gets a better look. “That’s definitely Jane and Reyna.”

When the plane comes to a stop, Robert stands up. “Ok, ladies. I’m sure a few of you need to use the bathroom. Let’s go in as a group, in case they give us trouble. I’ll see if Jane can have the other girls grab the luggage.”

A moment later, the female pilot emerges, opening the door, and letting it fall open to expand the built-in stairs. “Thank you.” Robert says, reaching in his pocket, and tipping her a fifty, as his boss had suggested.

“My pleasure.” She says, grinning, and steps back to allow them to exit. When Robert reaches the ground, he is met by Jane, who gives him an unusually enthusiastic hug.

“I missed you so much!” She says.

“I missed you too, my love.” He says, tilting her face up for a kiss. “I’m surprised to see you, though.”

“This solves the transportation problems.” Jane says. “No need for a rental car here, and then we can just drive home.”

“The van is going to be a bit cramped on the way home, though.” Robert says. “In fact, I think we are one over the actual limit, if I actually get the asshole to give up the concubine.”

“He said a bad word.” Robert hears behind him.

Jane grins, stepping around him to look at Isabel. “You must be Isabel.”

Isabel hesitates a moment, looking up at Amber, who nods. “Yes, Mistress…” She mumbles.

“When it’s just the family around, you can just call me Jane.” Jane whispers after she, with a bit of effort, gets down on one knee so she can look Isabel in the eyes. “I’m not that scary, I promise.”

“No, she isn’t.” Lucia says, stepping off the plane with Samira’s help. “At least, if you behave yourself.”

“Lucia!” Jane says, getting back to her feet, and giving the girl a gentle hug. “Are you feeling any better today?”

Lucia shakes her head. “This morning was horrible. And the jerk at the other airport didn’t want me to use their bathroom.”

“You should have puked on him.” Jane says. “Instant attitude adjuster.”

Isabel giggles, and even Robert smiles at the idea of the attendant covered in vomit.

Robert looks over at Reyna. “Can you and the other girls help with baggage? I think most of us need to visit the restroom.”

“Umm…” Reyna says, looking over at Jane.

“About that.” Jane says. “It’s just the two of us.”

“You left the rest of the girls home alone, with contractors going in and out?” Robert asks incredulously.

“They aren’t alone.” Jane says defensively.

“Who is staying with them?” Robert asks. “Did you call Roger and his girls to come up?”

“They weren’t available.” Jane says, grabbing his arm, and steering him a few feet away from the other girls. “Please don’t get mad…”

Robert sighs. “What did you do?”

“My stepdad bought a few girls the other day, and they needed Jenna to move out.” Jane says. “She called me in a panic, and I couldn’t say no. She’s family.”

“You left our girls with Jenna?” Robert asks incredulously. “The single most irresponsible and stupid person I’ve ever met? The same woman who, last time she moved out, you swore never to allow into your house again?”

“Alexia is in charge, and she knows that.” Jane attempts to reassure him. “The girls have Tom and Rick’s number, and they both know she’s only there as the token handler.”

“Why would you even let her in the door?” Robert asks, actually getting angry. “What happens when she and Mei get into it? It’s bound to happen.”

“Mei is going to keep her distance.” Jane says. “I warned Mei about her feelings towards Asian people, and told Jenna to leave her alone.”

“And her little brat?” Robert asks. “Last time we saw him, the things he said were truly vile. I don’t know what she lets that child watch, but whatever it is, it should be banned.”

“She’s going to keep an eye on him.” Jane says. “I know it’s not ideal, but I made the best of two bad situations.”

Robert sighs. “This is bad, Jane. Like having Dee around the girls, bad. She’s one of the worst influences any of them could have.”

“I know.” Jane says placatingly. “They are on a different floor, and should stay nice and separate. Alexia and Taylor both have standing orders to step in if she starts anything with any of the girls. And Megan is keeping an eye on Layne.”

Robert paces in a circle for a moment, before turning back to her. “How long is she staying?”

“She’s supposed to be working on finding a new place immediately.” Jane says. “So, hopefully not long.”

“Is she still unemployed?” Robert asks.

Jane nods. “Apparently. It doesn’t sound like she’s had any work since she got fired last year.”

“When we get back, I’m going to make it clear she’s got a limited amount of time to find somewhere else to go.” Robert says. “And while she’s here, the kid is going to keep his filthy comments to himself, and she is going to learn how to help around the house. Maybe we can find a way to put her to work.”

“That’s fine.” Jane says. “I don’t really want her at our house any more than you do.”

“And we need to get back ASAP.” Robert says. “Before something bad happens.”

“What time is your meeting with the guy?” Jane asks.

“Four.” Robert says.

“We need to get going then.” Jane says. Turning to the assembled girls, she says. “Anyone who needs to use the bathroom, come with me. If not, please help Robert load the van.”

Tossing him the keys, Jane sets off towards the nearby office, followed by everyone except Reyna.

“You don’t need to go with them?” Robert asks.

“I can wait until the hotel.” Reyna says. “And this will go faster with two of us.”

A few minutes after the luggage was loaded, Jane and the girls emerge from the office, making their way over to the van.

“Did everything go ok?” Robert asks curiously.

“They were very hospitable.” Jane says with a smile as she climbs into the driver’s seat.

“After you threatened to go full Karen on them.” Lucia adds.

“Sadly, sometimes that is necessary.” Jane says. “I don’t particularly like doing it, but if you fuck with my girls, you get what you get.”

“Lucia, did you want the front?” Robert asks.

“If you don’t mind.” Lucia says. “I really don’t want to get carsick.”

“It’s only twenty minutes to the hotel.” Jane says. “Once we get there, Robert and I will go check in, and then come back to help with luggage.”

“I’m hungry.” Lindsey complains.

“The hotel has room service, I think.” Robert says.

“I’ll ask when we get checked in.” Jane says. “If they don’t, we’ll order something in for you.”

*****

“This is a house, not a hotel.” Jane says as she pulls into the driveway. “Are you sure you gave me the right address?”

“That’s what it says in the email.” Robert says, pointing the screen towards her.

“Did you read the attachment with check-in instructions?” Jane asks.

“No…” Robert says, clicking on the attached pdf, and skimming it. “Apparently it’s corporate housing… We just put in a code in the front door to check in.”

“That works for me.” Jane says. “How far away is the actual hotel that we are using for the meeting?”

“It looks like… two miles.” Robert says. “And you mean, I am using. I don’t need an audience.”

“Reyna and I are going with you.” Jane says. “We’ll sit quietly off to the side.”

“Why?” Robert asks, opening the door to get out.

“I’ll show you.” Jane says, getting out and walking around to the back. “Girls, come get your bags.”

Emily arrived first. “Robert, give her the door code. Girls, walk through the place before getting settled in. Robert and I will be in shortly.”

After the girls had entered the house, Robert asks. “Ok, what did you want to show me?”

Jane flips up the false floor of the van, revealing their pistol case. “You didn’t think it was a coincidence that I brought Reyna, did you? There is no way you are meeting with a violently crazy guy without armed backup. If he even looks at you wrong, he’s going to get blasted. And I’ll be there to testify that it was completely necessary.”

“Jane…” Robert says. “I’ll have a word with Reyna. We don’t need anyone getting shot.”

“Of course.” Jane says. “Only if it’s necessary. Which would be a shame.”

Robert looks down at the case, and back up at Jane. “You kept them packed while we were at the airport?”

“We packed them up before we got there, and haven’t taken them back out.” Jane says, reaching in to grab the case. “Now that we are off the airport property though…”

Robert sighs, grabbing the case from her, and then his bag, before stepping back to let her close the rear doors.

Following her inside, Robert steps inside to find a small but luxurious kitchen looking onto a generously sized living room with several couches.

“This is nice.” Jane says, closing the door behind him, and stepping into the kitchen to read the paper on the counter. “Three bedrooms, and two and a half baths. Oh, and the couches turn into sleeper sofas.”

“It is nice.” Robert admits. “Better than a hotel.”

“The Master is through there, Master.” Amber says, coming out of a nearby room. “Can I take those from you?”

“I’ve got it.” Robert says. “Thank you. Where is Isabel?”

“She’s in here.” Emily calls from a bedroom. “We want this one.”

“I’ll take this other one then.” Lindsey says, exiting another bedroom.

“We may need to leave the last room for our new addition.” Robert says. “And maybe Samira? We have no idea what condition she is in.”

“So, I’m stuck on the couch?” Lindsey asks, clearly annoyed.

“Just like most of us.” Lucia says. “It’s one night. Just get over it.”

“You can share our room.” Jane says, glancing into the master. “There is a nice spot on the floor, in the corner.”

Lindsey frowns, but doesn’t reply.

“See? The couch doesn’t seem so bad, does it?” Jane says. “Lucia, considering your condition, I think you should join us in the master tonight, if the new girl is here tonight. If not, you and Samira will take the third bedroom.”

“You want me in the living room?” Reyna asks.

“If Lucia is with Samira, you are welcome to join Robert and I, but honestly, I’d probably feel better if you were in the living room.” Jane says.

“No problem.” Reyna says.

“Thank you.” Jane says, looking at Lindsey for a few seconds, before continuing. “Feel free to start looking for places for us to order dinner. Delivery only.”

Turning to Robert, Jane motions for him to follow, and then waves at Reyna as well. Once they are in the master, she closes the door, and turns to face them. “We’ve got about an hour until the meeting. Reyna, Robert wants you to not shoot the asshole we are meeting with unless it’s actually ‘necessary’. I leave that to your judgment, but my feeling is that if you are in doubt, it’s probably necessary.”

Glancing at Robert, Reyna says. “I’m starting to think Jane doesn’t like this guy.”

“I’m getting that impression too.” He says. “Let’s try not to shoot anyone, no matter what. We don’t need that kind of attention, or scrutiny. This should be quick and easy. With any luck, he brings the girl, and we can bring her straight here, so that Samira can take a look.”

“Should we take Samira with us?” Jane asks.

“If he doesn’t have her with him, we can swing back by and grab her on the way to pick her up.” Robert says. “But I’d rather not have a crowd there, just in case there is a problem.”

Jane nods, and then says. “If there is nothing else you need to discuss, we don’t need to leave for an hour. I know a certain young lady with an itch that desperately needs to be scratched. Try to keep it down though, remember there is a child one room away.”

Reyna grins. “Are you going to stay?”

“I need to figure out food, before Lindsey mutinies.” Jane says. “Speaking of which, I see what you meant with her. I’m going to have to take her in hand, before she becomes a problem.”

“Unless you’d rather find a new teacher.” Robert says sourly.

“Is that an option?” Jane asks, face brightening and wheels clearly turning. “Because I’d bet anything that Tom has one squirreled away that I’d prefer to Lindsey. And he’d probably be thrilled to have one less woman to worry about.”

“Only if it’s actually necessary.” Robert says. “Or she wants to go. Or we can find a good spot for her. I’m not willing to just ship her off, knowing what might happen to her.”

“Got it.” Jane says, clearly not letting go of the idea. “I’ll leave the two of you to it.”

Stepping out into the living room, Jane surveys the scene before her. Lindsey is sitting by herself on her phone, while Lucia, Samira, Emily, and Amber are all clustered together with Isabel.

“Ok, what have we come up with for dinner?” Jane asks.

“There’s a BBQ place down the street that delivers.” Lindsey suggests.

“I hate to ask…” Lucia says. “But can we do something bland? Maybe sandwiches? I don’t think I can handle throwing up BBQ.”

“You’re still feeling bad?” Jane asks, going over to sit next to her, and putting a hand on her forehead.

“I’m a little better.” Lucia says. “But I really don’t want to risk it.”

“I found one that delivers here, Mistress.” Emily says.

“Good.” Jane says, walking over to her purse. “Go ahead and order, and let me know when it is ready for payment.”

After the girls put in their order, Emily hands the phone to Jane. Looking over the order, she notices that while one person has ordered a combo, the others have just ordered half a sub each. Glancing up, she asks. “Are you sure this is all you want? You can get the combos.”

“I don’t need much.” Lucia says. “And we still have some snacks squirreled away.”

“What about you, Isabel?” Jane asks. “I think they have cookies too.”

Isabel looks at Amber, who nods. “Yes, please Mrs. Jane.”

“You are such a polite young lady.” Jane says, smiling at her. “One cookie added. I don’t know when the rest of us will be back, so just eat when it gets here. We might get something while we are out.”

Moving back towards her purse, she stops, and turns back to Amber. “Amber, here is the card if they ask for it. I’ve already added a tip to the order. Remind me when we get home that I need to order you a card for emergencies.”

“Thank you, Mistress.” Amber says, face lighting up with a smile.

“Why don’t we turn on some TV?” Jane suggests. “Maybe Isabel can pick something for us to watch. You can turn it up as loud as you’d like.”

Isabel eagerly grabs the remote, flipping through channels until she finds a cartoon she likes, and setting the volume to a level Jane deemed to be just a bit too loud. Motioning at Amber, Jane steps into one of the spare rooms.

Once they are inside, Jane closes the door. “How are things going with Isabel?”

“Surprisingly good.” Amber says. “But I haven’t told her who I am yet. I don’t really know how.”

“Do you want me to do it?” Jane asks. “Or Robert?”

“I… I don’t know.” Amber says.

“You don’t have to decide now.” Jane says. “How is Lindsey around her?”

“They haven’t interacted much.” Amber says. “I’m not sure Lindsey actually likes kids.”

“Is she close with any of the other girls?” Jane asks.

“Not really.” Amber says. “She spends most of her time alone, and really has only tried to befriend Valentina.”

“Valentina is staying to herself too.” Jane says, and Amber nods. “Ok, thank you. You are in charge while we are gone. Keep a close eye on Lucia please, or have Emily do it, especially if we end up picking up Samira.”

“I will, Mistress.” Amber says, and pauses. “I don’t think she realizes what’s going on yet.”

Jane looks at her for a moment, and then breaks into a grin. “Are you sure?”

“Samira made her take a test, and it was negative, but I’m pretty sure.” Amber says.

“Interesting.” Jane says. “Don’t say anything to anyone yet. I don’t want Robert to find out until we are sure.”

Amber nods. “I understand, Mistress.”

*****

“Are you sure you don’t want to be armed?” Jane asks as she pulls into the hotel.

“I’m sure.” Robert says. “I’m going to be right across the table from him, and I’m not Rambo. If he comes over the table, it’s just as likely that he would end up with my gun as that I would.”

“He’s right.” Reyna says. “And I’ll make sure I’ve got a clear firing lane.”

“Good.” Jane says.

“The two of you are going to stay quiet, and let me do my job, unless things go south.” Robert says. “If you can’t agree to that, we aren’t going in.”

“We will.” Jane says.

Robert pauses, looking at her carefully.

“I promise.” Jane says.

“Fine.” Robert says. “Let’s go. I want to get settled in before he arrives.”

Once they are directed to the conference room, Robert and Reyna drag a table to the middle, and set up two chairs behind and to the side of Robert, as well as one at each side of the table, and along the wall on the other side, just in case the employee brings the concubine. Robert quickly sets up his laptop, sending an email to let Marsha know that they’ve arrived, and are waiting for the employee.

A few minutes later, a thudding knock sounds on the door, and a man in his fifties opens the door. He is balding, with a mostly silver mustache, and an unfriendly expression on his face.

“Robert Wolfe?” He asks from the doorway.

“You must be Jason.” Robert says, rising and gesturing towards the chair. “Please, have a seat.”

The man looks around the room when he steps inside, letting his gaze linger on Jane and Reyna, before moving to take his seat.

“You didn’t bring your concubine?” Robert asks.

“Why would I?” Jason responds. “And before you ask, I didn’t bring my dog either.”

Robert breathes deeply for a moment, willing himself to remain calm, before continuing. “As you probably know, I’m meeting with you today because you are in between supervisors, with your last one being detained. My title is Director of BAA Relations. My job is essentially to handle anything regarding the BAA as it relates to the company or it’s employees. We are here today due to the video you made of your concubine, which, I’m sure you know, has gone viral. Do you have any questions, before we begin?”

“What I do with my concubine is my business.” Jason says stiffly. “It wasn’t on company time, company property, or filmed with my company device.”

“That is true.” Robert says, face expressionless. “And to the best of my knowledge, you haven’t broken any laws. However, the company has a right to avoid bad PR due to its employees’ actions, whether they are legal or not. For the moment, we’ve managed to keep the news agencies from dragging us into this, but that is unlikely to last long. I won’t lie, there are some who simply wish to cut our ties with you immediately, but, given our gaps in staffing due to the detainments, we are offering you a chance to explain how and why this occurred.”

“She’s mouthy.” Jason says. “Sometimes public embarrassment is the best punishment for someone who doesn’t learn.”

“And why did you film it? And then upload it online?” Robert asks in a neutral tone.

“I wanted her to see it.” Jasons says, and then sits back with a grin. “And to know that millions of people watched it. It embarrassed her. The actual beating might not work, but having millions of people watch her, helpless, while anyone could do anything they wanted to her… that really helped break her down.”

“I see…” Robert says, typing a few notes on his laptop, before looking up again. “And you didn’t expect anyone to recognize you? Or for there to be any negative reactions from coworkers, our clients, etc…?”

“It’s not their business.” Jason says. “My concubine is my business, no one else’s.”

“Until you took her out in public, videod it, and then put it on the internet.” Robert says. “What you do publicly reflects upon the company.”

Jason shrugs, and glances around the room again. “Are these two yours?”

“Let’s focus on you.” Robert says. “The decision of what to do with you isn’t completely mine, but I do have some leeway today. The final decision will be made by VPs and C-levels. My main task today is to gather information, and ensure that there won’t be any more incidents like this.”

“She’s not leaving the house any time soon.” Jason says.

“They want a bit more reassurance than that.” Robert says. “If you want to remain with the company, we need you to hand over your concubine to us. That will ensure that no more videos are made, and hopefully, this news cycle will pass without our name coming into it.”

“Hell no.” Jason says angrily. “I paid six grand for her.”

“The company is willing to reimburse you her current value.” Robert says. “Her current condition obviously plays into that. How badly damaged is she?”

“She’ll heal.” Jason says. “I don’t want to get rid of her anyhow.”

“I understand.” Robert says. “I’ll let my boss and the CIO know that you’ve chosen to separate from the company. You’ll receive an email…”

“Hang on, damn it.” Jason says, angrily slapping the table. “I didn’t say that.”

“I’ll be blunt.” Robert says, leaning back a bit instinctively and glancing back at Reyna and Jane to make sure they weren’t overreacting. “You have two choices. Turn over the concubine, and go on suspension until a decision is made, or separate from the company today.”

“She’s a premium concubine.” Jason complains. “It’s not like I can just go out and replace her easily.”

“A decision has to be made.” Robert says. “If you need a few minutes to think about it, I can give you that. But I have to have a decision, one way or the other, in the next fifteen minutes.”

“This is ridiculous.” Jason snorts.

“Take a few minutes.” Robert says. “I’ve only booked this room until five though. If I don’t have an answer by then, I’ll have to let management know to proceed with the termination.”

“Fine.” Jason says angrily. “You can have her. But not for free.”

“Your compensation depends on her condition, as I already stated.” Robert says. “If she’s badly damaged, she’s obviously not worth as much.”

“She’s…” Jason says, and then his shoulders slump.

“Damaged?” Robert asks.

Jason shrugs and says. “A bit. I’ll take four grand.”

“How badly damaged?” Robert asks.

“I’m not a doctor.” Jason says.

“It would be easier if she was here.” Robert says. “Then it would be easy to determine her value. I don’t even have her file or ID number. For all I know, she could be worth nothing.”

“Can I make a suggestion?” Jane asks from behind Robert.

Robert turns to look at her, silently willing her to silence. “We talked about this.”

“You need to inspect her to ascertain her value.” Jane says. “He gives you her ID number, and you can review it on the way to his house. On the way, we can pick up a nurse to look her over, and ensure there is no permanent damage.”

Robert turns back towards Jason, and gives a little shrug. “Does that work for you?”

“I won’t take less than three grand.” Jason says. “No matter what.”

“I need to inspect her first.” Robert says.

“Whatever.” Jason says. “You can follow me back to my place if you want to look at her.”

“I’ve got the address.” Robert says. “We need to stop and pick up a nurse to look her over.”

Jason rises, looming over the table. “Fine.” He eventually says, turning and walking towards the exit.

“ID number.” Jane says quietly.

“Jason, we need her ID number.” Robert says. “So I can review her file on the way over.”

Jason came back, pulling out his card, and says. “It’s probably the first number.”

“Do you mind if I just take a photo of it?” Robert asks, pulling out his phone.

Jason shrugs, and Robert quickly snaps the photo before he can change his mind.

When the door closes behind him, Jane looks at Robert with concern, and asks. “He has more than one?”

*****

“I think this is the right one.” Reyna says, showing the photo on her phone to Robert. “Unless he has two girls who look alike.”

“It’s always possible.” Robert says. “We should check them all.”

“True.” Reyna says. “Read off the next number.”

After a few more minutes of this, Jane arrives back at the van with Samira in tow. “Did you find her profile?” Jane asks.

“Yep.” Reyna says, showing the last profile photo to Robert. “It has to be the first one.”

“Agreed.” Robert says. Looking at Jane, he says. “His other three are all shorter, and more white presenting. It honestly makes me wonder why he spent six grand on someone who isn’t his type.”

“That’s something we should probably ask her.” Jane says. “What does the profile say?”

“Let me pull it up.” Robert says, switching between the photo and his browser as he types the long number.

“Can I see?” Samira asks Reyna, and she holds the phone between them so they can both look at it.

“Oh, wow.” Samira says, staring at the photo.

“What?” Jane asks as she pulls the van out of the driveway.

“She’s… striking.” Samira says. “Fierce. I don’t know how to describe it.”

“Hang on, let me check on something.” Reyna says, scrolling down. “Yep, she’s ex-military.”

“In her transaction history, it says she was purchased at an auction at an Army base.” Robert says. “So, I’m guessing she was still in until this all went down last month.”

“It’s only been a month?” Reyna asks incredulously, pulling up her phone calendar. “It feels like a lot longer.”

“We haven’t really had any downtime.” Jane says. “It’s been busy non-stop. Hopefully things calm down for us soon.”

“What does she actually look like?” Jane asks.

“It says she’s five feet, eight inches tall.” Robert says. “One hundred and fifty pounds. That looks about right, based on the profile photos, but I remember her being skinnier in the video.”

“Ok, but what does she actually LOOK like?” Jane asks.

Robert shrugs. “She’s kind of hard to describe. I can’t figure out her ethnicity, based on the photo. She’s definitely a mix of something, but I couldn’t tell you what.”

“Go to the menu on the right, and click on her results.” Jane explains. “It’s in the same section that had the transaction history.”

“Got it.” Robert says.

“I don’t.” Reyna says. “I don’t see transaction history either.”

“It’s because you aren’t logged in as a bidder.” Jane says. “That whole section is hidden behind a wall, probably to stop concubines from pulling each other up.”

“Oh…” Reyna says.

“She’s all over the place.” Robert says. “Nearly a quarter black, Italian, and Korean, and a ton of other smaller amounts from basically the entire Mediterranean. That last quarter could be Sicilian, or maybe Cypriot?”

“Cypriot?” Reyna asks.

“From Cyprus.” Robert says. “Both Sicily and Cyprus are melting pots, with all kinds of people moving to and from there over the past few thousand years.”

“Ok, so red card.” Jane says. “Good to know. What else does it say on her profile?”

“She was a Captain.” Reyna says excitedly. “It doesn’t list any other details about what she did in the army.”

“How old is she?” Jane asks.

“Twenty-eight.” Robert says. “Oh, and her name is Jia, with a J.”

“Interesting.” Jane says. “What do you think, Robert? Could you see her as one of your girls?”

“We don’t need any more women.” Robert insists. “Once we get home, we can find her a good home. Maybe Roger could take one more.”

“Roger didn’t want the three he has.” Jane says. “We can decide after we get to know her.”

“I do think having a second bodyguard is a good idea.” Reyna adds hesitantly. “There are a lot of us, and while I can try to teach some of the other girls, having backup would be great.”

“I’ll think about it.” Robert says. “If she is a VERY good fit for us.”

A few minutes later, they pull into the driveway of a two story house, mostly surrounded by trees.

“How do we want to do this?” Jane asks.

“I’m going to knock on the door, and you are going to stay here.” Robert says. “When I am ready, I’ll have Samira and Reyna come inside to take a look at her.”

“Reyna and I should come in with you the whole time.” Jane insists.

“Nope.” Robert says, opening his door. “I’ll wave at you when I’m ready for you to come in.”

Closing the door before Jane can object, Robert quickly climbs the steps. His knock on the door is immediately greeted by loud barking. “Shit.” Robert thinks. “Dogs.”

Jane opens the van door, stepping out. “You sure you don’t want me to come in? You are not good with dogs.”

Robert hesitates, tempted to take her up on the offer, when the door opens a few inches. “I’ve got all of the dogs inside.” Jason says, before looking behind him and yelling at either his dogs or concubines. “She’s in the back yard. The gate is unlocked. Knock again when you are ready to discuss price.”

With that, the door shuts in Robert’s face. Stunned, he slowly turns and walks down the steps.

“What’s going on?” Jane asks.

“He says she’s in the backyard.” Robert says, after walking a bit closer. “To let ourselves in, apparently he’s got all of the dogs inside the house.”

“Ok.” Jane says. “We are all coming. Get out, girls.”

When Robert reaches the gate, he pauses, looking around the yard, but he isn’t able to see anything other than the doghouse.

“This feels weird.” He says quietly. “Reyna, keep an eye on the house.”

“Got it.” Reyna says, reaching back to reassure herself that she has a clear path to her weapon.

Robert opens the gate, entering first, and after a moment, motioning everyone else forward. “I’m leaving it open, just in case we need to get out of here. In fact, Jane, maybe you should wait here? Or in the van?”

“We are sticking together.” Jane says, stepping forward a few paces. “I don’t see her, though.”

“Could she be in the doghouse?” Reyna asks hesitantly.

“That son of a bitch.” Robert says. “That’s exactly what he would do.”

Stepping forward, he carefully leans down, trying to see into the darkness inside of the small door.

“Here.” Jane says, turning on her phone’s light, and shining it inside. “Can you see now?”

“…” Robert freezes.

“Robert?” Jane asks, knocking into him as she gingerly leans down enough to glance inside.

“Shit.” She says, stumbling backwards into Samira, who was stepping forward to see.

Robert straightens up, looking at Samira. “She’s in there, but she’s chained up, and… I’ll be honest, I can’t tell if she is breathing.”

Samira steps forward, pulling out her phone to shine the light inside. “I think she’s ****.” She says after a moment. “She’s breathing, it’s just very shallow. I need to get her out of there to examine her, but we need to be careful moving her.”

“Fuck.” Robert says, pacing back and forth for a moment. “Ok, I’m going to get him to give me the key.”

“Robert.” Jane says, stepping in front of him. “Breathe. Reyna and I will go get the key; you stay here with Samira.”

After taking a moment to make sure he was ok, Jane waves at Reyna, and then heads back to the front door. Banging loudly, she only waits a moment before the door cracks open again.

“What?” Jason demands.

“Why the hell is she in a doghouse?” Jane asks.

“That’s where she lives.” Jason says, moving to close the door.

Jane jams her foot in the way, shoving at the door to make sure it can’t slam on her toes. “You need to unlock her. We can’t get a good look at her when she’s shoved in there.”

“Money first.” Jason says, keeping tension on the door, but not quite trying to crush Jane’s foot.

“You aren’t getting a dime until we properly inspect her.” Jane says. “She could be dead for all we know. Do you really want Robert to report back that you were this unhelpful?”

Jason stares at her for a few moments. “Fine. Move your foot. I’ll be out in a minute.”

Staring him down for a moment, Jane eventually relents, allowing the door to close.

When they reach the back yard, she finds Samira kneeling, reaching into the door of the doghouse.

“She’s definitely breathing.” Samira announces. “And her pulse is surprisingly strong.”

“He said he will be out in a minute.” Jane says. “Samira, you should probably get out of there.”

“Yes, Mistress.” Samira says, slowly backing out of the doghouse.

“Is she still ****?” Jane asks quietly.

“Yes.” Samira says. “That’s a problem, it’s hard to tell what’s wrong with her if she can’t communicate.”

“Do we need to take her straight to a hospital?” Jane asks.

“Probably.” Samira says. “She needs x-rays at least, if she has broken ribs, moving her too much could kill her.”

Looking around, Jane still doesn’t see Jason. “What the hell is keeping him?” She asks.

“I’ll go knock again.” Robert says.

Just as he takes a step towards the gate, the back door opens, and a young woman emerges. Walking towards them, she extends her hand. “Here’s the key. Bring it back when you are done.”

Jane approaches, taking the key from her, and quietly asks. “Has he hurt you too?”

“What?” The woman asks. After a moment, she adds. “No, Jason is good with the rest of us. She’s a special case. I have to go now.”

Jane watches as she quickly walks back to the house, being careful not to look back in their direction.

“Mistress, may I have the key now?” Samira asks, rousing her from her thoughts.

“Yes, of course.” Jane says. “Do you need help?”

“There isn’t room for anyone else in here.” Samira says. “Maybe Lucia and Mei could manage it, as skinny as they are.”

Robert leans down to look in. “Let us know if you need anything.”

“Do we have any water?” Samira asks. “I’d like to clean her up a bit, and see if that gets her to come around.”

“I have some in the van.” Jane says. “I’ll be right back.

“She’s got sores on her wrist, where she was shackled.” Samira says quietly. “And her face is really beat up. I think she’s missing a tooth too.”

“Anything broken that you can tell?” Robert asks.

“I… This is way beyond anything I am qualified for. I did some rotations to get my license, but I have almost no real experience. She needs an ER.” Samira admits. “I’m sorry.”

“Nothing to be sorry for.” Robert reassures her. “You are doing way better than any of us would. At the very least, you know what NOT to do with her.”

Samira nods, running her hands lightly over the injured woman’s body. “I don’t feel anything obviously broken, but I wouldn’t, unless it was a really bad break. She probably has some cracked ribs at least, from what I saw on the video. And a concussion. Maybe internal injuries.”

“Is she going to make it?” Robert asks.

“I truly don’t know.” Samira says. “If she has a brain bleed or internal injuries that have gone untreated, she could be in trouble. But I can’t tell just by looking at her.”

“Here’s the water.” Jane says, handing it to Robert, who passes it to Samira. “I put a case in the back when we left on the trip, just in case.”

“Good thinking.” Robert says, and gets her up to speed on what Samira has found.

“If we are taking her, we need to get her on our insurance immediately.” Jane says. “Can you go wrap that up with Jason? I’m assuming you have someone at work who can handle the insurance?”

“I’m sure Shannon can.” Robert says. “I’ll go deal with Jason.”

Going back around to the front, unknowingly followed by Reyna, Robert raps on the door again. This time when it opens, a woman is staring at him.

“I need to speak to Jason.” Robert says.

She shuts the door, and a few moments later, it re-opens, showing Jason.

“Well?” He asks.

“Has she been to a hospital?” Robert asks, trying hard to keep his anger and disgust in check.

“She doesn’t need a hospital.” Jason says. “She’ll be fine in a few days.”

“My nurse says she needs an ER immediately, and even then, she might not make it.” Robert says.

“Do you want her, or not?” Jason asks.

“She’s not worth three grand, much less four.” Robert says. “After the hospital bills, she’s going to be very expensive, even if I got her for free.”

“Your choice.” Jason says. “I offered.”

“One thousand.” Robert offers.

“Three.” Jason says.

“One and a half.” Robert says. “She’s half dead, so half price.”

“Three.” Jason insists. “I paid six, so you are getting half price.”

Robert frowns, wanting to argue. “Fine. We need to do the transfer on the site now, so I can get her on my insurance immediately.”

A few minutes later, Robert returns to the back yard. “Ok, it’s all taken care of.” He tells Jane. “She’s on our insurance, and the transfer is done in the BAA system. How is she?”

“The same.” Samira says. “I don’t think she’s going to come around. We need to get her out of here, without injuring her even worse.”

“I don’t think we have many choices here.” Jane says. “One of you can drag her out a bit, and then you three can carry her as carefully as possible to the van. I’ll get the gate and doors.”

“What about an ambulance?” Robert asks.

“Do you really think they are going to send one?” Jane asks. “She’s a concubine. If they send one, it’ll be hours. And who knows if they will be any more careful than we will be.”

“Shit.” Robert says, pacing for a moment. “Ok, let’s just do this. Samira, do you want me to come drag her out?”

“Let me try to do it.” Samira says.

Leaning in, she grabs hold of the **** woman, leaning back and pulling. Suddenly they began to move, and Samira fell backwards, Jia on top of her. Robert quickly knelt beside them, grabbing hold of Jia, and pulling her upward.

“Are you ok?” Robert asks, looking at Samira in concern.

Samira’s hand comes up to her forehead, and then she looks at it, as if she’s expecting it to be bloody. “Yeah, I guess.” She says.

“Reyna, help me here.” Robert says, and together, they manage to slide Jia out into the open, and off of Samira.

Once Samira is up, she supports Jia’s neck, and they slowly make their way to the van. Once everyone is loaded, Jia sandwiched between Reyna and Samira, Robert looks at Jane. “Do you know where we are going?”

“There are a few options.” Jane says. “I’m just going to go to the closest one first, and if they don’t take the insurance, we can start making calls.”

“Do we know for sure they will see her, even without insurance?” Reyna asks.

“That would be really bad.” Samira says. “I don’t know what to do if they won’t help us.”

“If they won’t help us, we’ll go to the next hospital. And the next.” Jane says. “Until we find someone who will.”