Sanctuary (Jasmine & Dr. Mephisto)

[Jasmine]

We started this RP on another board but decided to finish it here.


Jasmine
Her world was one of solitude. She felt safe on her private island. Once a week, her financial adviser arrives via helicopter. Occasionally, friends from the states would visit, but that was a rarity. She communicated via satellite phone and the internet. Fortunately, her inheritance allowed her the sanctuary of her island.

Elise had spent most of her 30 years here. At the age of 5, she had been held for ransom for almost 2 weeks and once he had her back, he built this retreat to make sure that his little girl was safe. For 25 years, she had remained on the island.

The staff took care of her every need. There were regular supply trips but Elise was never allowed off of the island.

Most of the people around her had been with her for years and years and she was closer to them than she was to her father. Recently, everyone of her security had changed. She could see their curious looks as she spent her days painting, writing and reading.

She was restless and uncomfortable under their curious stares. Even on her beach, she was never alone and yet she was so lonely. No one approached her or even talked to her these days. God, she needed something or someone to talk to.

Dr. Mephisto
I decided to cash in my time in the military and enter civilian life. But I wanted something that would be a major score. There are risks in putting together a team for a score. Any of them can fuck up and we would all be at risk. I nearly spent time in prison because of one fool who after getting stinking drunk, spilled to the owners of the property we were going to hit got wind of what we were doing. My crew, including the big mouth paid with their lives. I was lucky to get away with my skin and swore that I would never rely on anyone but my closest crew again. As I flew to my new "job" I pondered what I was getting into. I wasn't much of a charmer to young sophisticates like this young lady. It reminded me of Shakespere's "Tempest" where the mad scientest introduces his sheltered daughter to the exploreers.

A note came to me from Charley Lane who always was to take care of my needs regarding false identity documents and such. When he showed me what he had in mind my eyes bulged out of my head. "Isn't this the kid who was kidnapped some 25 years ago?" "Yep," Charley replied. I remarked what a hot babe she had become then asked about the fact that she was living as a recluse. He said that reports are coming out that she misses the outside world and wants to experiance real life. "She's lonely," I remarked snickering about it. That's when Charley handed me the means to quiet a bit of money. Anton Lawry, is the new security director on the island of the the little recluse. And he's just hired me thanks to Charley.

Just then the pilot announced to me that we were about to land.

Jasmine
Daddy set things up so that I don't have to worry about anything. I don't even have to know what's going on but I like to be informed. At least I get a weekly visit from someone who doesn't live here. The sound of the plane arriving is usually exciting but today, I am ambivalent. I wonder how Carlson, the CFO of my companies, will react when I tell him that I am moving from the island.

Standing on the beach, I enjoy the hot sun on my face and the breeze blowing my white, linen suit. Even though I have on sun glasses, when I look up at the plane, I shade my eyes with my hand. Even though I could meet the plane as I usually do. I take the Jeep and drive into the dense island foliage, to the place I call my jungle. I need a moment and the peace of the waterfall always calms me.

The noise from the plane stops and I know that in a few minutes, they will be waiting for me. I take a deep breath, pull my long, dark hair back into a ponytail and take the jeep to the house.


Dr. Mephisto
When I stepped off of the plane, a small entourage met me. I was able to zero in on Mr. Lawry right away. "You are Mr. Evan Dawson yes?" the well dressed gentleman said to me. "Mr. Lawry I presume," I retorted as I extended my hand to shake his. He looked down at my hand and hesitated for a moment. He may have gotten wind of my past but shook my hand anyway. "The staff will take care of your luggage and will escort you to your quarters," he said as we approached a jeep. "Freshen up and I will brief you as to your duties," he said to me with a slightly dismissive attitude. I simply ignored his attitude knowing that my employment didn't need to meet with his approval but rather with Mr. Carlson who handles all the purse strings around here. As I turned to get in the jeep that would take me to my quarters when I heard a rumble behind me. I turned and saw a jeep making its way up the beach at a high rate of speed being driven by what looked like a very attractive young lady. "I assume that that is Elaine," I said to Lawry who just sighed in acknowledgement as we watched her head to the house where we would be going. I looked forward to making her acquaintance.

Jasmine
For some reason, new people on my island make me uncomfortable. I like knowing everyone around me. I suppose that I had the fear of others instilled in me when I was a little girl. I do enjoy the beach, the freedom and driving fast! When you own the island, who's going to tell you to slow down! I like to drive fast when I'm anxious and right now I am. Perhaps later, I get my horse out and ride down the beach. That always calms me.

As I drive along, the wind whipping at my face, I look over at the people getting into the Jeeps. There is one that is tall and foreboding. He looks at me and even from this distance I feel a shiver down my spine.

I gun the Jeep and make it to the house in record time. I need to freshen up before the hordes descend upon me.


Dr. Mephisto
I saw her head into the house as though she was shy of meeting anyone. No matter to me, I had a job to do and was set on getting it done. The notion of working on a isolated island, with strangers, one of whom is a high profile target, gave me a little pause as I surveyed the island and began to look over its vulnerabilities. "Mr. Lawry!"Underestimating the time it would take for the new arrival to get to the house, I am caught in the foyer as Lowry and a tall, broad shouldered man enter. My shy glance is quick as I opt for the stairs rather risk getting on the elevator with a stranger.

Jasmine
Chiding myself for such fear in my own home. I know that he has been hired to protect me; from what I don't know since I am certain that the world has long forgotten about me. What concerns me is my anxiety over one man when I think I want to reenter the world.

I take the stairs 2 at a time, allowing the tom boy side of me to show. Soon enough, I will put on the mask of business woman. I retire to my rooms to get cleaned up and don the costuming for the part. I called to him as I continued my survey. "Yes?" he responded in a condescending tone. I turned to look at him and cracked a smile meant to show contempt. "Look, we can get along fine if we begin to show each other some respect and drop the false pleasentries," I said as he continued to look at me with a look of abject disgust. "If you know of my past and are not happy that Mr. Carlson hired a mercenary to protect his friend's precious little girl, then take it up with him, In the meantime, one of my duties is to be master at arms, and to do that and do it right, I need to look at the armaments and small arms that are being used to defend this 4 square mile piece of real estate, so show me where the arsenal is and where the guards are deployed and I can begin to get to what I was hired to do, do we understand each other?" I said removing my sunglasses with the last syllable. "Perfectly," he responded without missing a beat although I could see that he was somewhat intimidated. "Thank you," I said as I made my way to follow the staff member with my luggage. As we entered the lobby I saw the young lady that I believe was trying to take off like a plane with the jeep. I decided that this was not the time to make acquaintances.


Dr. Mephisto
I am brought o my quarters by the staff member and settle myself. I freshen up and change into clothes more suited to the tropical climate. It's not like most Caribbean islands that I have visited. The constant breezes don't give the humidity a chance to settle. Lowry said he would meet me to arrange a tour of the island. I left my room to meet him. As I did I looked around and wondered who my neighbors were in the 7 or so other rooms in this island mansion. I started downstairs and Lowry was there with a large broad shouldered man wearing sunglasses. "Mr Dawson, this is James Bartlett, he is the senior security office of the group, James, meet Even Dawson, your new boss," Lowry said with his usual contemptuous sarcasm. "Glad to meet you Bartlett, though I would prefer to meet you eye to eye, when someone hides their eyes from me, I feel that they are hiding something," I said to the brawny man who kept looking at me with a cold stare. Then he cracked a smile and removed his shades. "Pleased to meet you Mr. Dawson, I like a man who knows how to use his authority," he said in a strong Jamaican accent as he extended his hand to shake mine which I returned with a smile. "Mr. Lowry, I think we won't need you and I am sure you are a busy man so Mr. Dawson can help me find what I need to know being he is senior security officer," I said feeling that Lowry expected a confrontation and was disappointed. Before he could say anything else I asked," Oh, what time is dinner, I am looking forward to meeting the reason we are here after all?" "Dinner is at 7, and a Small cocktail reception will be at 5:30, I believe that would be the time for you to meet Miss Elise," he said and quickly turned heel like a bell boy.

"Quite a character," I remarked out loud forgetting about Bartlett. "He is an ass if you want my opinion," Bartlett said with a great amount of contempt. I looked back at him with a grin. "Well he may be; James is it? But he is our ass and you will keep remarks like that to yourself, as for your relationship with me? Just do your job and we will get along fine," I said coldly not wanting to endear any hint of being friends. "Now show me the arsenal and fortifications," I said as I climbed into the jeep to drive. "Well are you coming? I asked Bartlett who was thinking that he would drive. He climbed in and we set off as I told him to point to where we had to go.

Jasmine
A warm shower with my Satsuma shower gel always makes me feel better. I love the sweet citrus scent. It reminds me of the flora of my island. Reluctantly, I exit the shower, dry my long hair, apply only mascara and a hint of pink lip gloss and enter my very large walk-in closet. I need something to give me confidence. Choosing a white cotton sundress and white sandals, I head downstairs to meet the new arrival.

I know he is head of security and is well qualified. I don't know why we need someone with such a violent history, but I leave those decisions to others.

Downstairs, I am the first to arrive. On the bar is a pitcher of margaritas. Pouring myself one, I watch as the jeep arrives in the drive.

Taking a deep breath, I steel myself to meet the new guy.

Dr. Mephisto
After my survey of the island I was convinced that the security arrangements were adequate for the job at hand. I drove to the house and hand the jeep over to Bartlett. I thanked him for his guiding me around the island. As he drove off, I felt that he was loyal to the job at hand which was to protect the princess that lived here. I felt that I could count on him for any issue. It was getting late and I was a bit hungry and decided that I would catch a quick nap before dinner. As I enter the foyer I head to my room only to be distracted by quite a sight at the bar. I shook myself as I realized that I was staring at my charge. She was wearing a white dress that gave her an aura of angelic purity. I saw that she was pouring a drink from a pitcher. "Might I have one of those?" I asked her politely.

Jasmine
The first sip is sweet and sour and burns a bit going down. I lick the salt from the rim. I know it's not proper to do so, but then, neither is drinking alone. Staring out over the wide expanse of the ocean, I long for something. I don't know what. My thoughts are interrupted by a deep, baritone voice. Turning, I see my new keeper up close for the first time. I am caught in his penetrating gaze. Time stands still for a moment. His dark eyes capture me. My throat constricts. The pounding of my heart competes with the ebb and flow of the ocean waves pounding the beach.

Taking in the powerful arms, broad shoulders, trim waist and military haircut, I deduce that he is military.

Finding my voice, "of course. Where are my manners?" I smile and cast my gaze toward the bar. "I am having a margarita but I can make you anything you wish. You don't look much like the margarita type to me." I say with a brilliant smile. My lessons in manners from numerous nannies and tutors comes back to me. I find that I can't meet his eyes again.

Dr. Mephisto
"You can look at me miss, I don't bite, I promise, and I will take a margarita, just leave out the juice and salt," I said as I looked her. She seemed to be bewildered. "Just straight tequila please," I said. "Oh, I am sorry, yes right away," she said as she poured me a glass that would be considered a triple in most bars. "If I drink all of this I won't be of much help in protecting you," I said as I took the whole triple shot in one swig. I put the glass down and looked up at her. She still looked bewildered as I reached out my hand to shake hers. "I was checking out the island fortress that protects you, it seem that you are well proteced Ms. Elise, Oh forgive me, my name is Even Dawson, at your service," I said as I gently took her hand and kissed it. She pulled it away auickly I think more out of fear than anything else. "I do have work to do though miss so if you will excuse me," I said as I gave her a slight salute and headed to my room. I was tempted to see if this sheltered young woman was staring me down with an angry look or just some admiration. It mattered little, I was not here for romance, but work. I entered my room without looking back.

Jasmine
How humiliating to be caught in a breach of manners on our first meeting! I am so stupid! I look up at him but say nothing as I am caught in his dark gaze. He speaks but it takes a moment for his words to register. I pour him a drink, well, three of them actually, but he makes me feel at ease and drinks it all in one gulp. I would be stumbling if I tried that. One drink is my limit. I am mesmerized by him.

He introduces himself and takes my hand. His gaze never wavers and I find that I, too, am staring. When he kisses my hand, I feel like a school girl! What am I saying, it is the first kiss I've ever had from a man! The crimson blush that colors my skin feels hot and I simply stand there looking at the floor. He takes his leave after saying something about a fortress.

I watch his retreating back until he is out of sight.

"Stupid!" I chide myself. He must think me a twit.

I hope that he will be joining us for dinner. It's really the only time that the staff gets together. Since we are all secluded on the island, I want it informal. I finish my drink and start another. I need the extra courage to face dinner with this mystery man.


Dr. Mephisto

Upon entering my room I find a note there addressed to me. Opening it, I am advised that a welcome dinner is to be held at 7:30. I find such frivolity ridiculous but what can I do. From what I saw of this young woman she has truly led a sheltered life. I feel that for me to do my job, I would be best to stay clear of her and only work with my staff. She is arranging this dinner for me. I wondered who else would be there. The only people that have impressed me other than my charge is Mr. Lawry who I find to be a pompous ass, I suppose that a personel chief of staff would be especially when the staff wits hand and foot on a spoiled princess, and Mr. Bartlett who from what I see in his resume, may want to move into my job by assassination. He is supposed to be my second in command, I have to know that he will have my back in the event of an attack.

Just then my satellite phone rings. "Hello?" "Hello Evan, this is Charley Lane," he was the last one that I expected to hear from. "What's going on Charley?" I asked with concern. "Are you aware that you have a special dinner guest tonight?" "No. Who?" "Edmund Carlson, the CFO of your client's holding company, he is the guy who runs the day to day affairs of her father's companies that provides her with the life of luxury that she enjoys there. He may be looking in on you although he is know to pay her a visit weekly." "Good, I'd like to meet this guy, I have no pretense about what we want to accomplish here Charley, just be ready to do what I need when I need it. Oh, and check out a James Bartlett for me, he is my senior uniformed officer here and I want to know what his story is, if a situation arises that I need him, I need to be sure he can be counted on." "Consider it done" "Thanks Charlie, so long for now"

The room had an intercom. I picked up the phone and it called directly to the security command center. "Yes Mr. Dawson," came a sharp reply. "Who is this?" I asked. I am Art Timlin sir, we met during your survey earlier today, I operate the comm center," he replied. "Oh yes Art, I just learned that we may be having a visitor within the hour. Let me know of their arrival, in fact you now have standing orders that in the event of any aircraft or vessel that comes within 10 miles of the island and does not call us, I am to notified immediately before anyone else, understood?" I asked. "Understood sir, I will call you as soon as I notify the point guards,..." "No, son, notify me and no one else until I clear that, understand?" "Art?" "Yes sir, understood although it is a bit irregular," he said trailing off. "Don't worry about that, just carry out my orders," I said hanging up.

I looked toward the shower with reverence as I poured my self a cognac and took back a swig. I then stepped in and washed the day's travel from my body.

Jasmine
Walking out onto the sweeping veranda, I look out without seeing the ocean, the palms swaying in the breeze or the security men at the edge of the garden. This garden is my place. I selected each plant and I alone care for them. The bench serves me for now, but I long for the hammock beneath the trees. It is my special place where I can be alone. No one comes into the garden. They know it is my salvation.

I hear the dinner bell and move toward the dining room. Steeling myself for dinner with the newest member, I plant a perfect smile on my face and enter.


Dr. Mephisto
I enter a formal dining room that I thought belonged in a palace. There were servers at both ends with an array of fine dining waiting to be served. I couldn't help but notice my princess as well as Mr. Lawry were already sitting at a table designed to be for a banquet of at least 20 people. "Does it matter wher I sit" I asked Mr. Lawry deliberatly trying no to engage the princess. "Sit here Dawson, across from me," he said again in his best tone of condisention. With the young lady at the head of the table and only the three of us being the only dinner guests I sat next to her and across from Lawry. She looked me with a warm smile, the type I always had a hard time resisting from a beautiful woman, which she was. "Is it just the three of us?" I asked trying not to let on that I already knew the answer. "Why yes, the staff eat in their own galley," Lawry answered, much to the annoyance of Elise who was trying to engage in the conversation. "So miss, how long have you been here?" I asked looking straight at her.

Jasmine
Just as I am about to ask Cook to hold dinner for our new arrival, he steps into the dining room looking like raw power. I find my breath has caught in my throat as I gaze at him. Fortunately, he speaks to Lawry rather than me and it gives me time to compose myself. By the time he acknowledges me, I am once again in control.

His question takes me aback. I almost laugh. Here I am thinking that I am famous for being spirited away on this island for most of my life and my own employee doesn't bother to do basic research. The line that comes to mind is from the movie, "Miracle on 34th Street", where Santa says he "is as old as his tongue and younger than his teeth."

I stifle my comedic reverie, smile and reply, "since I was 5. Almost my entire life." The mischievous side of me won't tell him my age. I give him a warm smile and decide that his job suits him. I feel safe with him.

Dr. Mephisto
I sense that she is at ease in being here with me. "And this has been your life that whole time for the past twenty years?" thinking I would compliment her on being so young looking. In reality I knew all the sorted details about what happened to her and why this slice of paradise has become a prison without bars, but prison none the less. I couldn't help but go back to the movie Forbidden Planet where a recluse has hidden himself and his lovely daughter for 20 years. The Federation sends a rescue ship that the professor wants nothing to do with. The young woman is enamored of the meeting of strong young men other than her fater for the first time. "Just my friends and me," she tells the handsome captain. "Friends?" he inquires. She blows a dog whistle and a large bengal tiger appears form the jungle. I am wondering where the tiger is.

"Ahh dinner," I say as Cook appears with a serving cart. "Good evening Mr. Dawson, I have your favorite for you. I stared a bountiful plate of lobster newburg with angel hair pasta. I looked at the chef and wondered how he knew then looked at Lawry who had a grin on his face. I could almost see the canary feather in the corner of his mouth. I turned to Elise who was being served what appeared to be a simple dish of roast beef and potatoes. "Have you ever been curious about the outside world? I know that you have news and such but I always prefered to be someplace than just seeing it on National Geographic," I said trying not to do more than polite conversation. No sooner was she about to answer than my phone rang.

"Yes?... Art, what do you have for me?...There's a plane approaching requesting clearance?......Ok clear it through and have security forces on the tarmac, I'll be right there," I said hanging up. "Sorry Ms. Elise, duty calls," I said as I rose. She told me that she would have Cook keep my dinner warm and for that I thanked her as I left giving Lawry a short nod.

Jasmine
At first I think "how rude" that he answers his phone during dinner but his comment about a plane shifts my attention. I know that there isn't a plane scheduled but this man has it under control and I'm sure that it's nothing. "I'll have Cook keep your dinner warm." I tell him with a slight smile. I realize that I am too disappointed that he is gone and that my heart is pounding.

My attempt at eating dinner is as useless as is my attempt at polite conversation. Finally, I give up and look out the window. I wonder what he is doing now.


Dr. Mephisto

I jumped into my jeep and headed out to the airstrip. I had arrived and found a contingent of the island's security forces with Bartlett standing in a jeep looking at the approaching aircraft with binoculars. "Mr. Carlson's aircraft is making an unscheduled visit," Bartlett said as he continued to peer in the glasses. "Are you sure it is Carlson?" I asked. "Please don't insult my intelligence sir, I work for you but I will not be insulted by anyone," he said with a piercing stare. "Sorry, yes it is Carlson and it is unscheduled, I just found out a while ago," I said. "Before or after dinner?" he asked indignantly. The plane came into its final approach and touched down. We both drove out to meet it. The cabin door opened as the plane came to a stop. We stopped before it and Mr. Carlson stepped out onto the stairs. "Hello Dawson!," he said as he stepped onto the tarmac. "Hello sir, good to see you again," I said as we shook hands. "Hello Mr. Bartlett," he said politely but coldly. "Sir, you are here unexpectedly," Bartlett replied. "Really, my arrival was announced and...""That was my fault sir,I just arrived and was not fully up to speed on procedure," I said as I looked at Bartlett letting him know that I got him off the hook. "I was just about to sit down to dinner with Miss Elise, she would be happy to see you I am sure," I said hoping to find out why he was here. "Actually it is good news as to her finances, and I need signatures from her so let's have some dinnner because I am starved," he said as he climbed into my jeep. "Mr. Bartlett, secure the forces and the aircraft, carry on," I said. He saluted with two fingers on his forehead and set about his work. As we drove up to the house, Elise was standing on the porch waiting for us.

Jasmine
The plane lands but it's too far away for me to make out who it is. I am not worried though, who would want to harm me. No one remembers who I am anymore. My sigh dies on the wind as I watch Mr. Dawson's Jeep traverse the road to the house. Turning, I tell Cook to set another place when I see that it is Mr. Carlson.

By the time the two men enter, I am waiting for them in the dining room and dinner resumes. "I didn't know you were coming tonight." I say as a way to find out why Carlson would come at night. I know that he hates to fly at night.


Dr. Mephisto
We walk into the dining hall and Mr. Carlson says his hellos to everyone telling Elise that thre is no cause for any alarm for his unannounced visit. Just some formalities that needed signatures right away due to the wild swings in the markets these days. "Oh the cost of jet fuel Miss, I may have to take a slow boat to visit from now on," he said getting a laugh from all the staff and a grin from Elise. "Well don't let me spoil your dinner everyone, I will eat later, I will go to the office my dear and have everything ready for you, go ahead and continue," he said as he left the dining room. "You seem puzzled Miss about his unexpected arriaval," I said to Elise who spun her head to look at me. She simply sat down with a concerned look on her face. "Well I am ready for some dinner, ahhh thank you Cooky, that looks marvelous," I said looking at Lowry who dropped all pretence of confidence. "Excuse me," he said getting up suddenly. "Now what was that all about?" I asked turning to look at Elise who was simply staring into space.

Jasmine
I'm confused. Concerned about Carlson's behavior. He is always the epitome of calm. I try to maintain my equilibrium and failing miserably once Mr. Dawson mentions that I look confused. The smile I try to give him dies on my lips when Lowry bolts from the room. Taken aback I can only imagine what could be wrong.

"I have no idea. Excuse me." I tell Dawson and excuse myself from the table. There is no way to pretend to eat and I need some answers now. Traversing the hallways my anger gets the best of me. I know there is something going on and I'm tired of people treating me like a child. Stopping at the doorway to compose myself, I hear Lowry and Carlson talking but I can't make out their words. Not bothering to knock, I throw open the door. "Am I interrupting something about me?" I ask caustically.


Dr. Mephisto
As she got up from the table I knew she was heading in to see Carlson. I picked up the in house intercom and called the room. "Mr. Carlson, I want her reassured about her financial position and that her lifestyle is not in danger in any way, but that changes in the markets have made it necessary to liquidate some positions, you and I will talk later, now send Lawry back out to me and tell him not to say a word to Elise," I said and hung up before he could respond. I could hear the anger of her voice from down the hall as she inquired what was going on. She pressed Lawry who walked by her without saying a word apparently as Carlson persuaded her to join him in the study. Lawry came back in I invited him to take a walk with me. "What's going on? he asked timidly. "It's simple really Mr. Lawry, you are retiring, here is a letter of severance along with a pension of sixty thousand dollars annually and one hundred thousand dollars severance," I said holding it out to the stunned man. "I won't accept it," he said angrily. "You have that option in which case you leave this island with nothing, but in either case you leave with the understanding that if you divulge anything about this to anyone, including any governmental authorities, well let's just say no life insurance company will sell you a policy," I said bringing forth a reaction of complete terror. "Who is behind this and what does Carlson know about it?" he asked. "People have acquired Miss Elise's holdings by taking over the company that holds her trust fund, imagine what a find that was, I work for those people and I am not only the new head of security but also the new chief of staff," I said as he stopped walking. "Yes, I am your replacement," I said. "And Carlson?" he asked stunned. "Carlson stays, it seems that he was involved in some embezzling of funds, not Elise's of course he is too devoted to her late father, but it gave us a leverage over him to do things our way," I said watching Lawry shake his head. "This can't be," he moaned. "It is, and now your only choice is are you going to get on that plane with a secure retirement or with nothing," I said handing him the documents which after a few seconds he took as though they were poison. "Good, I hate to see people make unwise decisions, be on that plane and do not see Elise again before you leave, good bye," I said as I made my back to the house knowing that now was the time for me to make my move to "consoul" Elise.

Jasmine
"Lawy? What's.." I ask as he pushes past me. I will deal with him another day. For now, I turn my attention to Carlson. Keeping my eyes on Carlson, my steps never waiver as I advance behind the desk and stand in front of him. Looking up at him, I see something in his eyes. Perhaps it is fear but I don't know why.

"What's going on?" I ask softly. He averts my gaze as he utters, "It's nothing Miss." I can tell by the way he is shuffling the papers on the desk that he would rather be anywhere other than here right now.

"It's something. Tell me." I ask softly. He tells me that it's just some business with the trust, but nothing terrible. I can see that he doesn't believe what he is saying. "Talk to me. We've always been friends. Talk to me."

"Miss" is all he gets out before he moves away from me. "In this economic climate, your account has taken a bit of a downturn, but it is nothing that will not be recouped when the market bounces back. Your fortune is extensive and the principle in tact. I just need you to sign these papers and I'll be off and out of your hair." He indicates the papers on the desk, extends a pen to me and attempts a reassuring smile.


Dr. Mephisto
I returned to the house finding Carlson wrapping up business with Eleise who was to say the least in a state of confused anger. From what I could hear it seemed that she was afraid that her world was coming apart. I was hoping that Carlson would reassure her that that was not the case, which it wasn't, but that her situation was about to take some changes. I wanted him gone before I met again with Elise. He knew that he was to be on that plane with Lawry. He was to tell her that he would be back next month at the regular time, adn that she shouldn't worry about anything. "Please Miss, rest assured that things are well and you have no concern about your well being, I promise you that," Carlson said to her getting no answer and leaving with her staring into space and while not ignoring him, she was certainly not acknowledging him. He left despondent and saw me on the walkway to the door as he headed toward the car that would take him to the plane hanger. He gave me an indignant look as he got in the car and drove off.

When he departed I went into the office where I found Elise sitting at the desk and crying into her folded arms. "What's wrong Miss? Are you ok?" I asked her. She looked up at me, got up and ran toward me.

Jasmine
"What is going on?" keeps running through my head. I can't even form a reasonable thought about what is going on. I want to scream at someone, but I don't know who. Finally, the emotions overcome me and I just put my head down and have a good cry. But not even that is to be allowed. The new guy comes in and looks at me. I need someone. His compassion is all I need to make me realize how truly alone I really am. I jump run to him. Crying as I throw myself at him not caring that he is a stranger to me.

Dr. Mephisto
"Hey! What ever it is it's ok," I say as I pat the frantic young woman on the back and embrace her. I am not yet ready to take her emotionaly, for this will take time. I did not think that I would really fall in love with this girl in this scheme but all that was important to me was controlling her wealth. I didn't count on her controlling my heart. "Now what's the matter?" I asked feeling a little guilt since I knew very well what was wrong. "It just seems tht my world is upside down, these past 48 hours have been...." then she looked up at me. "Since you came!" she said backing away, then turned to run out the door toward the beach. I took the phone from my belt and called security. "Bartlett! Send out a couple of men to watch Miss Elise, see that she is ok but do not harrass her unless she does something dangerous," I said hearing an immediate acknowledgement.

With that taken care of I headed to the airstrip to wrap up unfinished business with Lawry and Carlson.

Jasmine
It felt good to be in his strong arms. I drew strength from him. My face was buried in his shoulder and I could smell the scent of his soap. I could hear his heart beating rhythmically in his chest. I longed to stay here but knew that I couldn't. Once I started talking, I knew that I was babbling, but then the babbling became a coherent thought. The idea that my world was catapulted into turmoil when he appeared in my life. I couldn't breathe. I had to get away. I need to think. I bolted from the room. I needed space. not knowing where I was going, but knowing that I had to get away from him and all of this, I just ran toward my beloved ocean.


"Hey! What ever it is it's ok," I say as I pat the frantic young woman on the back and embrace her. I am not yet ready to take her emotionaly, for this will take time. I did not think that I would really fall in love with this girl in this scheme but all that was important to me was controlling her wealth. I didn't count on her controlling my heart. "Now what's the matter?" I asked feeling a little guilt since I knew very well what was wrong. "It just seems tht my world is upside down, these past 48 hours have been...." then she looked up at me. "Since you came!" she said backing away, then turned to run out the door toward the beach. I took the phone from my belt and called security. "Bartlett! Send out a couple of men to watch Miss Elise, see that she is ok but do not harrass her unless she does something dangerous," I said hearing an immediate acknowledgement.

With that taken care of I headed to the airstrip to wrap up unfinished business with Lawry and Carlson.
Jasmine
It felt good to be in his strong arms. I drew strength from him. My face was buried in his shoulder and I could smell the scent of his soap. I could hear his heart beating rhythmically in his chest. I longed to stay here but knew that I couldn't. Once I started talking, I knew that I was babbling, but then the babbling became a coherent thought. The idea that my world was catapulted into turmoil when he appeared in my life. I couldn't breathe. I had to get away. I need to think. I bolted from the room. I needed space. not knowing where I was going, but knowing that I had to get away from him and all of this, I just ran toward my beloved ocean.

Lawry and Carlson were in the waiting airplane as I instructed them. "See here Dawson, I have been an employee of Miss Elise and her father since she was a little girl, you can't just cast me aside lke this," Lawry said to me in his usual annoyingly smug tone. "You know, you are getting it easy, a pension to match your salery plus severance pay, and all you have to do to keep it, and your life, is to leave here and keep your mouth shut," I said to him looking at him eye to eye. "If it were up to me, you'd get nothing, but I am not calling the shots or as you put it casting you aside," I said as I reached into a briefcase and pulled out contracts. "Sign these before you get off the plane and hand them to the gentleman who are there to meet you, failure will void the deal you have now," I said as I handed them to him. "But I..." "Get out of my sight!" I said pointing to the plane's cabin. Lawry sliped away into the cabin and I closed the door behind him. "Now Mr.Carlson, such a shame that your name came up in that embezzelment investigation," I said to him as he wiped his forehead. "Don't worry, my concern for Miss Elise is real and I have no intention of having any harm come to her, just keep doing as you are doing and you will be fine, the IRS won't find out about you,"I said to him. "When will I be back?" he queried. "Same time next month as usual," I reassured him as the pilot started the plane's engine. "Have a nice trip back and see to it that Mr. Lawry does what he needs to do please?" I said as he entered the cabin and I got off the plane, the attendent closing the door behind me.

As the plane taxied out my phone rang. "Yes?" I said not takingmy eyes off the aircraft. "Good, I will see to it that the little lady is off the beach when you are ready to arrive in the cove, wait for my signal," I said fliping the phone shut. "Now to take care of my sweetheart," I thought to myself as I headed toward the beach in my jeep watching the plane take off into the night sky.

[Jasmine]

I ran down the beach until my sides ached. Dropping onto the sand, I wrapped my arms around my knees and looked out over the ocean. The breeze ruffled my hair, but I didn't notice. It wasn't until the sun started to set that I noticed that the air was much cooler. I shivered and realized that I was on my own getting home. Picking myself up, I head back in the direction of my house, knowing it would be long past dark before I arrived. Not even knowing if I wanted to be home. I wish I could run away from all of it.

I saw her walking away from the beach as I approached. She stopped to watch the jet climbing into the sky as I approached her. She looked at me then back at the plane. "They're gone aren't they," she said as though her world had ended. "Lawry is yes, but Mr. Carlson will be back next month as usual," I said seeing a little smile come and go at that thought. "I know that Mr. Carlson has been a freind to you since you were a little girl and almost like a second father to you, I'd hate to see you loose that," I said as the plane disappeared over the horizon. She looked over at me and began to cry. I got out of the jeep and put my arm around her shoulder and gave her a tissue from the jeep. "Come on, you're tired let me drive you up to the house and you can get some sleep, tomorrow you can show me around this little piece of paradise, OK?" I asked hoping for some sign of happiness returning to her face

[Jasmine]

I'm miserable and alone. The ocean seems to echo that over and over again. I have nothing but an island and employees who are paid to be with me. Carlson has been the one person who seemed to really care about me. I know now that I was wrong. These thoughts run through my head as I walk on the beach and watch the plane until it's out of sight.

I hear the jeep approach. God, I think I must be crazy. I know he is here to protect me, but Mr. Dawson makes my brain go haywire. First, I fall into his arms and then I believe he is the cause of my problems. God, he must think me insane.

I try to quell the tears, but the continue to fall as Dawson tells me that Carlson and Lowry are both gone. I knew it, but hearing it makes me even more depressed.

Despite my bizzare behavior, Dawson takes pity on me and drives me back to the house. I try to pretend that I am happy to return to the house, but I really wish I was anywhere but here.

I manage a couple of the stairs before I realize that I didn't thank Mr. Dawson. Turning, I give him what I know is a feeble smile, but it is all that I can manage. "Thank you for well, everything." Heading upstairs, I found no comfort in my suite. I throw myself on my bed and have a good cry right after I vow that there will be no more tears shed by me over something that I don't even understand.

I watch her enter her room and the door closes gently. I know that she is upset now but in time I hope that I can make her come to me to seek me out as the one who will make her life happy. Maybe even in time to bring her from this isolation. She is young and beautiful and I am full of desire for her. She needs to be free of this imprisonment.

My wandering thoughts are suddenly broken by the phone.
"Dawson here...GREAT! What is your position?...Come in where we discussed earlier,I'll be there in 10 minutes, be leary of the security force here though....right see you shortly," I said jumping in the jeep and speeding off to the far side of the island, some 5 miles away.

[Jasmine]

My tears are interrupted by the sound of the jeep departing the front of the house. I can't help but wonder where Dawson is going this time of the night. Moving to the window, I hide behind the sheers as I watch the tail lights disappear into the darkness.

I chuckle at myself for calling him "Dawson". He is one of those men who seem to be known only by their last name. I can't remember if I was introduced to him by anything other than "Dawson".

My thoughts turn to the man. He is such a manly man. He's so virile. I grin at my thoughts as I hug my pillow to my chest. I decide that I should dress for bed and leave such torrid thoughts alone. He works for me! I chide myself and go about my evening routine with him hovering in the back of my mind.

I am able to push aside the thoughts that he has something to do with whatever is wrong in my life. I prefer to focus on the good things until the mornng. There is time enough for the bad things.

The geography of this island still amazes me. The fact that an atoll lilke this was never taken over by the military is so proposterous that it boggles the mind. I arrive at the cliffside on the far end of the island that overlooks the ocean for miles. Looking through my binoculars I see what I am looking for, a light flashing in the distance sending 3 dots and a dash, morse code for the letter V, the sign of victory. I return the responce .- --- -.- (AOK). They flash back .-.-.- (full stop) and the light attached to a periscope decends beneath the ocean. I jump back to my jeep and head down to the ridge that runs along the channel leading to a cave on the side of the mountain.

Inside is the astounding natural harbor for a ship and enough draft underwater for a submarine. Suddenly the sub surfaces slowly from the channel which was this far inside still 60 feet deep. The hatch opens.
"EVAN DAWSON!" yells the captain in a thick Russian accent. "Good to see you Mr. Cochenko, like your new boat," I said to him as he climbed up on the dock to meet me. "Yes, Brezhnev class, real piece of shit, but considering that the whole Soviet sub fleet was made up of pieces of shit, I think I got the better of the bunch, it was never even comissioned so it was in mothballs until I got it," he said expressing pride in his piece of shit." "Andre, you haven't changed a bit, still a blowhard," I said to get him laughing and to piss him off a little. "You haven't changed either, still an arrogant ass," he responded as I turned to walk up to a service room on the top of the deck. He kept blathering about his exploits including some with me even mentioning the incident in Indonesia. "Get this straight, that's history as far as I am concerned, the fucking Americans and British both left me to rot there and when I escaped the put a price on my head to save face, you even got a better deal that I did," I said letting him know that I didn't want to hear about this again. I reached into a cabinet and took out a bottle and a couple of glasses.
"Oh well some of this I'll forget anything my old friend," he said upon seeing the bottle of very old Cognac. I poured each of us a generous glass and we drank back. I then looked out on the deck watching the goods being unloaded onto the deck. "Great load there, all the weapons and drugs needed to start a small war," I said seeing the goods we brought in. "Tell me Evan, no one knows what is happening here?" he asked with a voice made raspy by the drink. "No way, the mountain is so thick that it not only covers the noise but the vibration as well, it's perfect," I said grinning. "Very good Evan, this will do fine," he said turing to shake my hand. "When will you be back?" I asked him. "In about a month, it should give you time to distribute what is here," he said turning to return to his ship. "I'll have this stuff out of here in a week and will still have time to romance my young hostess," I said watching him raise his eyebrows. "You mean the heiress?" he asked as we kept walking. "Yes, she is quite a lovely woman," I said looking into my glass. "You are aware that her father got this place while he was an intelligence office for the American government," he said. "You're kidding!" I said shocked to learn this. "Her father had risen to head navel intelliegence during the war in Vietnam and while in that position, must have learned about this place keeping it off the radar so to speak," he said. "How do you know this?" I asked in a demanding tone. "I know, even your boss knows so take care with this young lady, there may be more to her than you know," he said as he climbed back down his hatch waving good bye. Suddenly the ship was gone as quickly as it arrived. I got back into the jeep and headed back to the house to get some sleep, somewhat bewildered and curious.

[Jasmine]

I settle down in my spa tub for a long, luxurious soak. The warm water melting my troubles away. Lifting my sweet orange bath foam to my inhale the scent, I find myself relaxing instantly.

Dropping my rope, I slip into the warm, silky water. Sliding down up to my neck before I turn on the jets. It's always a little disappointing when the timer shuts the jets off, but through the open window I can hear the sound of the ocean surf lapping onto the beach.

Finishing up my bath, I slip into my robe. I hate to dry off with a towel! While wet, I apply my moisturizer all the while my mind thinking of a man that I know is trouble - Dawson. "Evan" I whisper, loving the sound of his name.

Climbing into bed and turning off the lights, sleep takes me quickly with tempestuous dreams of passion and danger.

I arrive back at the house and head up to my room which is on the other side of the house from Elise's. When I get in I turn on the water in my bathroom sink, but find the pressure is low. I turn it off and hear water running in the pipes of the old plumbing in this house. I also hear the hum of a motor running a water jet system. My mind begins to race about Elise in her tub enjoying a bath. I hear the system shut off. I imagine her getting out of the tub dripping wet, her long raven hair shining from the water. I imagine her wiping herself and me walking in on her and looking at me and rushing into my arms and kissing me passionatly. Reality returns to my mind and it angers me. My life choices have set me on a course that would never allow me to be with her. I go into my bedroom and open a drawer where I kept another bottle of the cognac that I enjoyed with my Russian friend. I open it and pour out half a glass and swig back half of that and then look at yself with self loathing in the mirror. I would love to ride horses with her on the beach on this island. I want to take her to Tokyo, Hong Kong, Sydney, places that I am sure she could tell me about from books and magazines like the ones in her library. I swallow back the rest of my drink and look at myself in the mirror again. "What do you think she would do if she knew what you were doing here MISTER DAWSON?" I ask the man looking at me in the mirror. I was always told not to let my emotions get in the way of work, but this time it's different. I feel like we could help each other. My mind is racing back to the Tempest story again. Then "Forbidden Planet" came to mind. I wonder if it is in her movie library? She could look at it and see herself. My mind begins to cloud from the booze and I lay on my bed and within moments I fall into a alcohol induced sleep. It was then that my phone rang. To me it was silent.

[Jasmine]

My dreams take me to places that I have never been and tonight is no different and yet, it is very different. Tonight, they take me to the arms of a man that I have just met; Evan. The dream starts simply enough, with us walking together on the beach, our hands accidentally tough and then he takes my hand. From there, it moves to kissing with passion as great as the waves crashing on the beach behind us.

I awaken in a cold sweat, the bed lines tossed and torn from the bed.

It is 2 am and I'm wide awake. My body keeps trying to send me down the hall to his room. I fight the urge until 3 am. Then, I can't stand it anymore. I quietly slip down the hall toward his room. Each small sound seems to amplify in the hall and I am certain that he hears me even though I am barefoot. Almost there. I'll just listen to him breath through the door. My head close to the door, I hear nothing until I hear his phone ring. I take off down the hall running as hard as I can and close the door. Leaning against it, my heart racing. "Foolish Girl!" I chide myself.

I wake up startled by the sun burst peeking into my room. Suddenly panic arouses me and I grab for my phone to see what time it was. "6:30, shit I'm... Who called?" I thought seeing the voice mail and realizing that there may have been an incident. I listened to hear Art Timlin, the young man in the security command center leave a message. He said that there was some unusual readings coming from the radar. "How could this have been?" I thought. The sub was underwater until it was well inside the radar zone. I called the command center back and Mr. Timlin answered. "Sir, it was nothing, it only lasted a couple of seconds, some kind of anomoly," he said. "Good job son, keep me posted no matter how insignifigant it may be," I responded to him. "And if I don't answer like last night come and wake me if you feel it is urgent, Understand?" I asked him in a friendly tone. "Will do sir, thank you again," he responded relieving me of any concern that the sub was sighted. It was then I looked out the window to see Elise running up the path in a tank top and shorts. I was careful not to let her see me gawking at her. I couldn't help it though, she was gorgeous and I felt that she was as lonely as me. I decided to jump in the shower and then "join" her for breakfast.

[Jasmine]

It was a long night. I didn't get to sleep at all. Even my painting failed to take my mind off of him. Even before the sun was up, I thought a run would help me relax, get control of emotions before I had to face whatever it was that was coming today. I know that it's bad. I can feel it.

The cool breeze caressed my skin and I thought of Evan. Shaking free of that image was tougher than I thought it would be. He took about 5 miles, but I was finally able to return home and face my day.

I walked out onto the terrace where the staff was serving breakfast and saw Elise there. I felt she was always so overdressed for someone who was not going to be anywhere but this rock. But she had an air of elegance that drew me to her. I walked over and was greeted by a server to whom I just requested some coffee. "Good morning," I said to Elise who looked up at me with a look of delight mixed with indifference.

[Jasmine]

Cookie made my favorite breakfast this morning. Although I don't feel like eating I have no choice but to try and eat some of it. The fresh orange juice tastes sweet on my tongue. I freeze as I see Evan making his way to the terrace. Swallowing the juice in one gulp, I feel my face reddening with the thoughts about my behavior last night.

Fortunately, he is stopped by one of the staff for his breakfast order and it gives me a moment to compose myself. By the time he gets to the table, I greet him with what I hope is a friendly, yet professional smile. "Good morning. I hope you slept well after all of the..the commotion yesterday."

As I approach her my mind races with thoughts full of lustful desire. I see her hair blowing in the soft breezes of the South Pacific and her face beginning to glow with, a blush? Should I be flattered or even more presumptuous, hopeful? "Oh I did thank you and I apoligise for any contribution to that commotion that I may have caused," I said thanking Cookie for bringing me breakfast and coffee, then retiring silently. "I was finally able to settle in and get things in place that I needed to take care of so now I can do what I have hoped to do since I arrived which is find out more about you," said as I looked out from behind my coffee cup. Before she could respond I added,"For instance have you ever been off this rock?"

[Jasmine]

His apology for yesterday takes me off guard. I resolved in my mind that his presence here was a coincidence rather than a contributing factor. The personal question distracts me for a moment. I look into his eyes and say simply, "No". I know that I should elaborate, but I can't let go of the events of yesterday. "What about the commotion? What was your part in that?" I ask.

I was taken aback by the sudden frankness she displyed. "What commotion? Are you speaking of the fact that Mr. Lawry was dismissed for reasons that I cannot divulge, or about the attentivness I was showing to my job, the primary purpose of which is your well being and safety? Or maybe was it because I felt that I had to make sure that everything here was in good order so that my primary job could be carried out with the care I think it deserves?" I responded without giving her a chance to say anything. "You see, I am here to make sure that you are safe, and if I can add to your life by seeing to it that you are happy as well, don't you think I should get some credit for that too? Now, I asked you have you ever been off this rock?"

[Jasmine]

Whether it is my attraction for him, my inexperience with me, lack of sleep or confusion over the loss of a dear friend or perhaps a combination of all of them, my emotions were on the surface and I snapped. "Don't patronize me! I'm not a child! I don't have to have been off 'this rock' to know when I'm being played." To punctuate that point, I place my napkin on the table, push my chair back and storm off. Immediately, I chide myself for such an immature response.

Once again, my room is my sanctuary. I watch him on the terrace from my room. But, rather than toil in the uncertainties of my life, all I can think of is the way he looks in those jeans.

I am stunned at her reaction. I watch her walk away and a feeling that I though was dorment began to fill me, it was pure rage. I looked up at her standing on her terrace and threw my napkin on the table and headed up to her room. She saw me approaching her door. "Stay away!" she screamed as she slamed the door in my face. I caught it before it met the hasp and flung it open. She was still just inside it acting indignant. She told me to leave before she called security. "You seem to forget, I am security," I said as I took hold of her waist and pulled her toward me.