Chapter Sixteen

Sunday, September 13th

JORDAN

1:31 p.m.

Me and Vinceta arrived at the hotel's front entrance, Michael quickly walked around to open up the door to the matte black Rolls-Royce Phantom. Vinnie was the first of us to get out, as soon as I stepped out, I noticed curious onlookers admiring the Vega's ostentatious vehicle. Brushing that aside, Vinnie and I went straight up to the Penthouse Suite.

Stepping off the elevator, two bodyguards were standing on either side of the door guarding the entrance. They both looked in our direction and one of them knocked as we approached. Oscar opened the door and let us in without saying a word.

I immediately took notice of my dad and Angelo sitting in the living room area, my dad was hunched over looking at papers that were in disarray on the coffee table. While Angelo was standing by the window, overlooking expansive metropolis. "Dad, we have a name." I said loud enough as we urgently made our way to them. Both men's head expeditiously looked in our direction.

"Does the name, Franco Berarducci, ring any bells?" And just like that, as soon as I said the name, the look on both of their faces, went from concentration to instant worry. Then I seen a flash of anger in the depths of my father's eyes. Further solidifying what my thoughts from when I first arrived in the city. I just didn't know what it meant.

Angelo and my dad shared a look, as if they both knew that this situation just got a lot more serious. "You know who you have to call, don't you?" Angelo asked my dad.

"Yeah. I was just hoping I would never have to call him again." My dad replied, shaking his head in disapproval.

"Yeah, I know." Just then Angelo walked over to my dad and put his hand on his shoulder. "Well, just know, my debt isn't repaid until your wife is home safe. Anything you need." Angelo patted him on the back and went back to his previous position.

"I'll make the call." And with that, my dad went into his room and closed the door.

Tuesday, September 15th

JORDAN

8:10 a.m.

Our plane touched down a little less than an hour ago in Los Angeles. We were able to check into the Waldorf Astoria's Presidential Suite. I wasn't able to rest on the plane like I wanted to, my anxiousness was having a field day the closer we got to our destination. My thoughts played tug of war, one minute I would be thinking about my mom, hoping and praying that we would find her so we could bring her home, then the next minute I would be thinking of Sydney.

I had a lot to make up for once we got back, even if I had to grovel, I would do whatever it took to ask for her forgiveness. But then there was that other part of me that felt like I didn't deserve it after what I had done. I still felt guilty as I took a good long look at myself in the bathroom mirror.

I could make out the slight redness in my eyes, the look of exhaustion displayed in my features. I turned the faucet on and splashed my face with water. I straightened out my grey dress shirt, tucking it in the waistband of my tailored bootlegged blue jeans. Even those were in minimal disarray, I pulled the bottom of my pants over my all-black Timberlands.

Truth be told, I would do it again in a heartbeat, especially when it comes to the people I love. I had expected nightmares to come that night, from the things I had read and watched, in fact, I would welcome them. But so far, I haven't had any. This thought furthered itself into the depths into which plagued my psyche, what did this really say about the type of person I was? Or who I thought I was? Am I a wolf in sheep's clothing? How would Sydney react if I told her? Did this make me unlovable in Sydney's eyes?

The last question would be the one that could possibly break me. A part of me wanted to tell her, I didn't want to keep anything from her. She deserves to know the truth about the person with whom she shares herself with. But the other part of me, the selfish part, didn't want to tell her because of the fear that it could be the end of us. The dealbreaker.

I knew she would see me in a different light, who wouldn't? If it were anyone else, I wouldn't care, it wouldn't matter. Lying would be a whole lot easier that's for sure. This was Sydney I was thinking about, and what and how she thought about me would impact me for the rest of my life. What she thinks and how she feels about me matters.

I couldn't stand the thought of us not even being a factor. I know I could easily lie to everyone else, that wouldn't be a problem. But Sydney is different, she's always been different. From the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew I could willingly fall victim to her piercing emerald eyes. To do anything and everything she wanted or needed me to do, I would do it.

It reminded me of that Bryan Adams song, 'Everything I do, I do it for you.' And if you haven't heard that song, then I suggest you check it out for yourself. That explains the way I feel about Sydney in a nutshell. I'm just saying.

I had to get my shit together, I mentally scolded myself as I walked out of the bathroom and began pacing my hotel room. If I start going off the deep end, by my negative thinking, even if they were mostly about mine and Sydney's relationship. I had to come to grips with what was going on now, and in this moment, in however many days to come, this is about my mom and getting her home safely. As much as I love Sydney, I have to keep my head in the game.

I checked the time, only a few minutes passed. I wished my dad had set the meeting with his contact for earlier. My anxiety is going through the roof. Normally I would be able to keep my mind occupied, but it felt like the closer we got the more anxious I became.

The click of the lock brought me out of my reverie. I turned to see Vinceta standing in the quaint entryway, two Starbucks coffee cups in each hand. As usual, Vinceta looked immaculate in her navy-blue women's blazer, white silk dress shirt and denim skinny jeans, paired with her signature black dress shoes. Seeing the look on my face, I could see the worry in hers, but she didn't voice it, instead, Vinceta casually strolled to my side of the room and handed me a cup. I graciously took it and sipped the wonderful libation.

I hadn't realized how much I missed the simple things. Enjoying a simple cup of coffee being one of them. Going to school being another, reading a book, going to the gym, or even helping my mom and dad with business. It seemed like a lifetime ago since I had done any of those things. I didn't even have the heart to work out like I used to. It felt like bits and pieces of me were slipping away with each day that passed.

It wasn't until Vinnie that I felt like getting back to my old habits. Going to the gym being the main one. I wanted to be at my physical best in case anything wayward were to happen. Now was not the time for me to get sloppy or careless.

I was grateful when Vinceta offered to come with us, in the short time of reconnecting with my friend, it was becoming more and more apparent of how well we worked together. We made a rather good team, and the sad reality is us having to part ways once this fiasco is all over. I knew I was going to miss being around her. As far as friends go, she's been there for me the most, given the circumstances. And just like how it is with Sydney, I don't want any of my friends from back home to be caught in the middle of this. I didn't want to put them in harms way.

I felt like a shitty friend, I haven't called or texted them since I left. If I did so now, it would seem kind of pointless. I know they would understand, it's not like I haven't left on a business trip before. Hopefully, that's all they think this is. I know I wouldn't have to do too much groveling when it came to them. My only worry is Sydney. For obvious reasons.

A throat being cleared awoke me from my thoughts. After handing me my drink, Vinceta sat down at the table, crossing her legs as she sipped her drink. I could feel her gaze on me, I turned my head in her direction. Her true sapphire orbs conveying curiosity. I knew what she wanted to ask, yet my mind was going a mile a minute hoping she wouldn't.

"Everything's going to be fine. Don't worry so much." She said reassuringly. I breathed a sigh of relief, mentally thanking her for letting it go. At least for now anyway.

"Yeah, I know. It's just that I can't help but to question everything. Look at every angle." I replied, turning my attention back to what we came here to accomplish. I continued to pace the invisible trail I had created.

"And I get that. I'm that way too." I could hear the concern in her voice. I stopped in my tracks to look in her direction.

"I would rather be prepared for anything and everything. I want all the bases to be covered." I sighed as I raked my fingers through my hair, feeling more frustrated as I began to think about my dad. I knew he was keeping vital information from me; I knew it had to be for my own protection. But I also thought that it could possibly end up being worse for me, not knowing what he knows. Or at least, part of what he knows. Yet, I knew enough not to push the subject. I just had to trust that he would tell me when the time was right.

"Don't get too far ahead of yourself. We still haven't met with Javier yet. So, until then, just try to relax." She stated, as if she heard what I was thinking, for a moment I thought I said everything out loud. But the look on her face said otherwise.

"Yeah, I know you're right. But that's easier said than done." I took a seat in the chair opposite Vinnie, putting my head in the palms of my hands.

"How about this?" Vinnie asked cheerfully. "We still have a few hours, let's go do a little shopping, we need to look the part anyway. Rodeo isn't too far from here." She raised her brow in a questioning look.

"Alright, let's go then." I could definitely use a distraction. Plus, I could pick up something for Sydney. Something special, in the hopes that she would forgive me after leaving things the way I did. Even though I know Sydney isn't the materialistic type of woman, it's the thought the counts. At least that's what they say. I knew the perfect gift.

"And while we're there, you can pick something up for Sydney." I swear, it's like she can read minds.

"Way ahead of you my friend." I said as I grabbed the key fob to the rental and then the both of us walked out.

An hour later, I found myself standing in middle of a jewelry store, looking at a beautiful princess cut diamond ring. The price was a little steep, but I knew it was perfect. Who am I kidding? I know I'm too young to be looking at something like this, or even thinking about getting engaged. Although, I couldn't help but to entertain the thought, she would make a gorgeous bride. I shook my head, I couldn't buy it, especially since I don't know where she and I stand as of right now.

I moved down further and that's when I seen it. The perfect gift. I called the jeweler over and had her ring everything up.

11:46 a.m.

It didn't take as long as I thought it would to get what we needed. Vinceta was right about us needing to look the part, I had managed to get everything on my mental checklist and then some. And with Vinnie, everything seemed so much easier, and time seemed to flyby since she's been around. The more her and I are able to hang out, the more I realize how much I've actually been in need of a true friend.

Having her here with me is helping to take my mind off of some of the stresses of having to go through this whole ordeal. So, with her being here, I'm thankful I'm not alone. I can't thank her enough for being there for me. With that being said, a part of me wishes that it could be Sydney consoling me as well. I know having her here would probably benefit me and bring up my morale. But I have to put Sydney's safety first before my selfishness. I mentally groan at the position I've been put in. This has to end. I cannot fail.

12:18 p.m.

I anxiously paced the presidential suite, awaiting the arrival of Javier. Just another step in a hopeful right direction of finding my mother. I took a quick look around; my dad was on the phone with Angelo who unfortunately couldn't be here because he had something important to take care of back in the New York. Which is why he sent Vinnie in his wake. I glanced out of the floor to ceiling window the balcony where Vinceta was sitting outside smoking a cigarette while talking on her phone. I assume she was talking to her people.

It's safe to say that I've been more on edge since we arrived here. I know I sound like a broken record by now, but in all honesty, you would probably feel the same way if you were put in the same position as me. The stress of everything was taking its toll on me, I could feel the tension in my back and shoulders.

I walked outside to get some fresh air, hoping that it might help. I needed to calm my nerves, usually when I'm this stressed out, granted I've never been in this situation before, but I would head to the gym. I didn't have time to do that now. I had to practice patience, something I've come acutely accustomed to and constantly trying to control the past couple of weeks. I made my way to where Vinnie was sitting.

The balcony itself was L-shaped and very spacious. It had two exits on either side of the L division. On one side of it there was a large wooden table that seated up to eight people, the fresh lilies set in the middle of the table added a touch of elegance to the decor. Ficus trees were placed throughout the area, but it didn't overpower or takeaway from the ambience.

I sat on the ottoman across from Vinnie, she was seated on the eggshell-colored U-shaped sofa, cigarette still in hand. I watched as she casually took another drag, then coolly blowing out a long cloud of smoke.

"Mind if I have one?" I gestured towards the pack of menthols she had on the end table to her left. Normally, I wouldn't subject myself to such extremes, but I was desperate to calm my nerves at this point. And with my dad being here, I knew alcohol was definitely out of the question, plus, I'm not a very big drinker. I haven't the patience nor the tolerance for people who heavily drink. And the one time I did, it ended badly. So, having a cigarette seemed like menial problem. It's not like I plan to make it a habit.

Vinceta shot me a questioning look, I in turn revealed my persistent anxiousness. Her look softened and she relented. "Help yourself." She said as she handed me the pack of cigarettes.

I was halfway through my limited unconventional method of relaxation when Oscar came out and informed us that Javier had arrived. Vinceta and I shared a look and went inside.

I honestly didn't know what to expect once Javier walked through the door. Part of me was expecting a sleezy Latino guy, which is why I was a little taken aback when I was met with a tall well built muscular Puerto Rican man with long black hair slicked back into a low ponytail. Javier was casually dressed in a beige blazer, sky-blue polo shirt underneath, beige khakis, and medium brown dress shoes. I took notice of his gold Rolex on his left wrist with and a gold chain around his neck.

Normally I would think this was so cliché, but his bravado helped him to pull it off. I wouldn't put it past him that he demanded a certain amount of respect in the circles he found himself in. Truth be told, you had to in this business in order to survive. As Vinnie and I made our way into the living room area, I could hear my dad and Javier catching up, getting the formalities out of the way before we got down to the real business at hand.

I walked up to the men who were centered in the middle of the room standing as they joked. I cleared my throat, gaining the attention of my father who was now to my right. "Javier, I would like you to meet my daughter, Jordan." My dad introduced me with a smile. "Jordan, this Javier. An old friend from before you born." He said as I shook Javier's hand, he gave me a warm smile in which I returned.

"Javier, this lovely young lady is Vinceta, Angelo's daughter. Vinceta meet Javier." I watched as they shook hands as well, they both exchanged the same warm inviting smiles.

"Everyone, have a seat. There's a lot that needs to be discussed." My father suggested and with that said we all took seats closes to us. I sat next to my dad on the beige plush sofa while Vinnie sat in a comfortable chair to the left of me. Javier took a seat opposite my father and me.

"So, Javie? Any news or inclination where Raquel might be held?" My father asked, getting straight to business. He scooted closer to the edge of the sofa, hands clasped together and his attention unwavering.

"Well, Elias. As you very well may know, it wasn't easy getting this information." Javier replied as he leaned back in the chair, clearly comfortable and under control.

"Yeah I am aware of that. I wouldn't expect it to be easy considering who and what we're dealing with." My father replied in a matter-of-fact tone.

"Exactly. I'm going to be perfectly Frank; I have some good news and some bad news." Javier admitted. He repositioned himself and pulled at his blazer, closing it a little. Then he continued as we listened intently. "The good news is, it's been confirmed by my men that your wife is here, in California." I felt slightly relieved, knowing that we were getting close, but the anxiety was still lingering. I couldn't let that bit of information give me false hope. There's no telling what all was at stake. "The bad news is, it's also been confirmed that it is indeed a fact that Renato has her at his villa in Thousand Oaks." I could feel the heaviness in the air as the silence of both men looked knowingly at each other.

I began to get a different kind of unsettling feeling in the pit of my stomach. This has got to be a lot more serious then I thought. Especially if my dad was willing to keep things from me. Javier too. It's not like I didn't already know that or that I was expecting something different. I am the one who accepted all the terms when my dad asked me if I was really ready for this. I told him I was, I still am. And if is what it takes to get my mom back, me not knowing the full extent of it, then I'm going to see it through.

"Give it to me straight Javie. How bad is it?" My dad asked, breaking me of my thoughts.

"It's not going to be simple job that's for sure." Javier replied, taking a drink of the dark alcoholic beverage that was in his glass. "But with the information given to me, it's going to take a little time in order for everything to work out." He continued, his words giving us hope for what seems like the first time. But at what cost? I couldn't help to ask myself.

"What's the situation?" My father inquired; his brows furrowed as he leaned in a little closer. I knew he was willing to put everything on the line. And I couldn't blame him, I was too.

"Based on what we know, Renato is in desperate need of a new supplier." Javier revealed. I had an inkling what was coming next. Knowing what had to be done, it wasn't going to be easy that's for sure.

My dad shook his head, most likely weighing the pros and cons of what's to come. "How big of a shipment are we talking?" It didn't take my dad long to decide all the possibilities. He had the look of a man with pure determination. No longer questioning his intent or the ramifications this involved.

Javier leaned in and stared at my father in a calculating manner. "One-thousand kilos." Javier hastily responded. With this very reveal, the situation became more critical, more transparent that things were about to get complicated. This type of shipment and supply is a difficult and daunting task. If you don't have the right connections, it could take weeks to come up with such an order.

"Fuck!" My dad exclaimed; I could hear the frustration in his voice. It took him a moment, but he managed to calm down. "I really wish I didn't have to do all of this." My dad confessed.

"Yeah, yeah, I know." Javier clasped his hands together, whether it was to emphasize his point or get my fathers attention, I didn't know. Either way, it wouldn't have mattered. "Look, the way I see it, it's better if we supply him making it easier for us to get Raquel out of there." The man did have a point. That couldn't be denied.

Furthermore, I needed to know what and who exactly we were up against. What my father said next just proved my point entirely. "We have a bigger problem. Renato is never gonna buy from us. You know that." His strong masculine voice furthering my intrigue. I could no longer be left in the dark. I had to start asking my father questions, I could no longer accept going into this blind.

"Of course, he wouldn't. Especially not after what went down last time." Javier admitted, my interest now piqued at an all-time high. A part of me wasn't surprised about how much I really didn't know. Considering my fathers past was never a huge issue for me. Even though I wasn't completely ignorant of what it entailed. I knew just enough, but not enough to where I could be implicated for anything.

I grew up in this type of lifestyle, I knew what it was like to starve, to not know when your next meal was going to come. Then going from that to having the things I have now, is a complete one-eighty. My dad quite literally had to climb out of gutter to get to where he is now. Which is not easy for a man who grew up with nothing. I'm not asking for anyone's pity or trying to tell a sob story. I'm just merely painting a picture of the trials and tribulations we had to go through. To give a small inkling of an idea of how far we've come as a family. I am not going to give up, not after all the bullshit we went through, this Renato guy is not going to rip everything away, especially when it comes to the people I love and care about.

"All I'm saying is, we find someone else. Someone reliable. Someone believable, someone new and who he'll believe can supply him with what he needs." Javier now forcing me away from my thoughts. Everything he was saying made perfect sense.

"Yeah, but who?" My dad countered. I could see the concern in his eyes as I looked in his direction.

I knew then what I had to do. "Me." I said as soon as the revelation hit me. Who better than me to be tasked with this. I knew well enough to not let my emotions get the better of me. I was fully aware of the dangers that awaited. Why not me? My father knew better than anyone that I could handle myself should the need arise. He did help train me in more ways then one. I looked to my father Elias, telling him with my eyes that I could do this. He nodded his head in understanding.

"Us." Vinceta said a moment later. Hearing her say that made me feel all the more confident that I could do this, we could do this together. I felt unstoppable with her at my side, I wouldn't trust anyone else to have my back. She's proven to me that I can trust her, I can only hope that I've done the same in return.

"Excellent." Javier smiled like the cat that ate the canary, clapping his hands together in victory. "Now that that's settled. All we have to do is get the product."

4:52 p.m.

After much deliberation, we had finally come up with a plan. It was a simple enough plan, in theory anyway. My dad was tasked with contacting a supplier. I knew he could find someone willing to help him out. Like I said before, my father is a very charming and likable man. And from what I knew and seen, he's well respected in all of the circles and people who he associates with. There wasn't a doubt in my mind that he could find the right people for the job.

Javier's part was simple, get the word out to Renato's people and point him in mine and Vinceta's direction. Vinceta and I's job would be more difficult. We would meet with Renato or whoever he sent in his stead, form a business relationship, gain their trust somehow and make the deal. So, in theory, this plan was as simple as it could get. In theory.

The more I got to know Javier, the more I could see why my dad was associated with him. Javier, like my dad was charming, yet stern. And from the short amount of time that he was here, I could see the jovial part of him too. I also knew that we could trust him, my dad wouldn't call on people who he didn't think were respectable and reliable, or that he didn't trust. Elias has always had an eye for detail, I like to think that's where I get it from.

Javier left less than an hour ago, after we finished concocting the rest the plan. While my dad was in the other room making calls, Vinnie decided to go to our room and get some rest. I opted to stay here and try to get some answers from my dad once he was finished.

Now that we had some form of idea and plan of what to do next, I wasn't as anxious as before. In a way I was relieved to know the whereabouts of my mother. Just a few more days and hopefully this will all be over. The tension in the air wasn't as thick as it was when we were in New York.

I decided to give Sydney another call while I waited for Elias. I made my way to the patio and dialed her number. I hoped this time she would pick up, I wanted nothing more than to hear her angelic voice on the other end, it had felt like ages since the last time I set eyes on my Egyptian goddess. I listened as the phone kept ringing, then I heard the click of her voicemail. The only thing that has been giving me any type of solace since I've been gone. Her beautiful voice, telling the caller she'll call them back and to leave their name and number.

I know I could easily text her and tell about everything that's been going on. But I can't bring myself to do it. I would rather tell her over the phone, to hear her voice would be a comfort. Texting wouldn't show or convey the realness of how I feel. At least, if she heard my voice she would be able to hear the sincerity in it. I was disappointed to hear that her mailbox was full, I wouldn't be able to tell her today just how much I've missed her. I thought about dialing her number again but thought against it. The last thing I wanted to become was a nuisance. Besides, school hasn't been let out yet. I'll just try to call her again later.

I walked back into the spacious hotel room and sat down on the sofa. I reached for the remote on the center coffee table and turned on the tv. Flipping through channels, trying to find something to occupy my mind for the time being. Finally settling on the history channel, deciding to watch Counting Cars. It's a show I liked to watch with my dad or even by myself. I loved it cause it talked about old cars. Because as you well know, I love classic cars. I let the show play subtly in the background as my mind drifted to simpler times.

I don't know how long I sat there, oblivious to the show or my surroundings. All I seen was my dad appear from the narrow hallway that led to the back room. I stood as quickly as I could and walked to where my dad stood next to the bar. Asking if Oscar could make him a drink. Oscar immediately went behind the bar and started fixing him a drink as my dad sat down on one of the barstools.

I approached my father, determined to get some answers. "Dad." It came out more of a question. He turned and looked me in the eyes.

"Yeah, what is it kiddo?" I could see the worry in his eyes.

"There's something I need to know. And I really need you to tell me." I verbalized in all seriousness. I wanted him to know just how serious I was taking this and how important what I was about ask him is to me.

"And what's that?" He shot me a quizzical look. It was a clear indication that he was unsure of what I might come next.

I braced myself, taking a deep breath, then sat next to him. "Who exactly are we dealing with? I mean, who are these people? Franco and Renato?" I inquired, furrowing my brow. I needed to know, I reminded myself. No way was I going to let him avoid the question if he so chose.

He let out a long worn-out sigh. "That's a long and complicated story." Oscar set his drink down in front of him. Dad took a drink and set it back down.

"Yeah, I get that. But I need to know exactly what I'm walking into. For me and Vinnie to stand a chance, I need to know the severity of it. You know I don't like to pry, and I'm not one ask a lot of questions about yours or moms past, but I at least need to know who these guys are." I explained, hoping that he would see the reason in it.

I was about to go into further explanation when he turned to face me completely. Giving me his full attention. He looked down, seemingly utterly defeated. "I never wanted you to be a part of this life." He started, his voice gentle. I nodded, urging him to go on. "Your mom and I tried so hard to keep you from it. That's why we worked so hard to get ourselves out of it. But it seemed the more I tried to keep you from it, the more you got involved. Which is why I pushed you into martial arts the way I did, I figured if I couldn't protect you, then maybe you could protect yourself." His expression etched in concern as he recalled the events.

I remembered my part in it, the determination I had in wanting to impress my dad. I shook my head at the stupidity of my previous actions. He continued, "So many tragic things happened way before you were born. There was a time when Renato, Franco, your mom, and me were best friends. But then something happened to change all that. I won't go into detail just yet, but it was bad. Renato still blames me for it. Just know that I'm innocent of what he's accusing me of. I know Renato would never hurt your mother, it's not in his nature to strike a woman. He actually despises men who do. Which is why I'm certain, without a doubt in my mind, that he's doing this to get to me. He knows better than anyone; I would walk through fire to find your mother." I could see all the pain and hurt in his eyes. In the way he looked down, I knew he felt guilty for things to even come to this.

Then his entire demeanor changed, his expression hardened. "Which is why I must warn you, not only is he smart, but he is also incredibly ruthless. He won't hesitate to kill anyone who stands in his way. I need you to be just as smart, if not smarter. I need to be just as ruthless. I know that's not the advice a father would normally give, but in order for you to come out of this alive, you have to think, and act like them. That's the only way you'll survive." He warned. It was advice for which I was thankful.

I was also grateful that he opened up the way he did. My parents are easy to talk to, but their past is a topic we hardly ever discussed. "You got it pop. I won't let you down." I remarked nudging his shoulder to lighten the mood.

"I know you won't. I wouldn't let you do it if I didn't think you can." He smiled, a genuine smile at that. Even though it didn't reach his eyes, I was just happy that I could see it again.

"I love you pop." I announced as I got up from my seat.

"I love you too kiddo." He reached out and pulled me in for a hug. One that the both of us most certainly needed.