Dead Love

40



Suzy and Max spent that May Saturday morning making love in his king-sized bed at his spacious brick townhouse in Georgetown. She didn’t stay at his place as often as he stayed at hers, but she felt comfortable in his home. She had left many of her personal belongings there, from a spare blow dryer and toothbrush, to sexy lingerie and gym clothes. He belonged to a gym, where they enjoyed working out together. Suzy did her light weight workout, and Max had a more strenuous workout, lifting heavy weights to maintain his trim military physique.

She had awakened Max that morning with feather light kisses to the back of his neck. They had slept spooned together, her naked body pressed against his strong warm back. They often woke in the night, made gentle love to each other, and then fell back to sleep. Their desperate need for each other had not diminished. Their passion grew, as they explored all ways of pleasuring each other. He loved her beautiful little ass, holding it against him, their intimate caresses and kisses, touching her intimately, and especially when she would pleasure him, sitting on top of him, controlling and moving him in and out of her at her whim, squeezing her muscles tight around him, making him beg her never to stop. She loved when he kissed her and moistened her secret place with his tongue. She was still wet from their lovemaking in the night.

As her morning kisses became more intense, she began to touch his body, between his legs, and Max reacted suddenly, rolling her over, holding her arms over her head, his mouth hard on hers. He opened her legs fiercely and shoved his huge hardness into her wet opening, and he wouldn’t stop until she was coming. And he kept saying, “Tell me you love me, only me,” and she said it over and over and over again, “I love you, Max—I love you, only you,” until the waves of orgasm stopped, and then he came in her, the heat magnifying the waves of pleasure. They kissed and held each other, talking softly, loving each other, in real time, knowing it was forever.

Later, Suzy was in the shower, washing her hair, but she could hear his cell phone ring. Max was talking with someone, but she couldn’t understand what was being said. He didn’t get many calls on Saturdays, and she hoped he wasn’t being called to work. Emergencies had come up before when he would have to report for duty. Fortunately it wasn’t often. She cherished every moment they could spend together.

She stepped out of the shower, grabbed the soft gray towel that matched the dark gray-tiled bathroom, dried herself, and then wrapped the towel around her torso. Max had dressed and was in the kitchen, having promised to make her breakfast. She could smell the coffee and hear him busily preparing their eggs, toast and bacon.

Suzy picked up Max’s cell phone from the night table. She brought up the call history and memorized the most recent phone number on the list. She grabbed her cell phone from her purse, which had caller ID blocked, and dialed the number. She didn’t want Max to know how jealous she was, and she wanted to make sure it wasn’t a woman who answered.

After several rings, a man answered, “Greg Hammond speaking.”

Startled, Suzy said, “Oh, sorry, wrong number,” and she ended the call. She would do some research to learn more about Greg Hammond. His name was unfamiliar to Suzy. She had met several of Max’s friends at official functions, but she was pretty sure she had not met a Greg Hammond. Her curiosity had been piqued, and she wanted to know everything about Max. It could be anyone, but she had to be sure. Her paranoia was normal, considering Max’s position, though she trusted him fully. She couldn’t think of anything that might have made her suspicious of him, but who knows. He loved her. She believed in her heart that it was a true and real love. She knew that nothing was wrong, but it couldn’t hurt to find out who this Greg person was.

Suzy slipped on a white fitted T-shirt, with no bra, and her gray yoga pants. She had put on a soft rose lip gloss, and her long black hair was still a little damp from her shower. As she walked into the kitchen, she found coffee waiting in a maroon mug on the granite countertop, with a maroon, blue, and gray plaid napkin placed next to it.

“Thank you, love,” she said softly.

He turned away from the stove and noticed her sexy breasts, nipples erect through her thin T-shirt. He was getting hard again. Damn, he smiled inwardly.

“Who was on the phone?” she asked. “I heard it ringing when I was in the shower. I hope you don’t have to work today.”

“No,” Max said, as he put the wheat bread slices in his stainless steel toaster oven. “It was just a reminder from my dentist about my checkup next week. No big deal.”

“Oh, good,” Suzy said, and walked over to see how the eggs were coming.

“Interesting,” she thought.


41



Greg and Max found a private spot in the back of a small Greek restaurant tucked away on a side street near Greg’s office. There were several comfortable booths to the right of the front door, a leather sofa and chairs with a coffee table in front of the window, and some small glass-topped tables in the back. It was a great place for coffee and delicious Greek specialties, including stuffed grape leaves, pita pies, and other traditional choices. Greg suggested they try the Kolatsio, a Greek snack, perfect for brunch or a main meal. Greg also chose the spinach pie and regular coffee, and Max decided on an egg and vegetable omelet with coffee, as well. The pretty waitress with a slight European accent took their order and said she would be back soon with coffee.

“Never tried this place,” said Greg. “Thought it would be a nice change.”

Max agreed. “Yes, it smells good in here. Hope she hurries with the coffee. And I am starved.”

After the aromatic coffee was served in small china cups, Greg pulled out a sealed manila envelope and said, “Here is the report you wanted.”

He handed it to Max, and Max opened it, pulled out the lengthy report, and started reading. Greg was silent, sipping his coffee. He was waiting for a reaction. Max calmly put the pages back in the envelope and asked Greg, “Did you verify this?” already knowing the answer.

“Yes, we have great analysts. It didn’t take long for them to figure it out,” he said. “Your girl is interesting. One of our agents in Hong Kong did a lot of research on her background.” He hesitated. “We’ve added her to our watch list, Max.”

“F*ck!” said Max, slamming the envelope down on the table, and several people sitting nearby turned and looked at him.

“Careful, buddy, hang tough here,” Greg whispered. “You wanted to know, and we’re glad you did, though I understand your shock.”

“Hey, man, I love this girl, and I can’t get my mind around this now.” Max was both angry and worried. “She is in this thing, and it is obvious why. But she is in deep shit. They f*cking knew how to bag her. God damn it, what the hell am I supposed to do now?”

“You say nothing, Max. Keep track of her—maybe you will learn something. We will do standard surveillance. She has an impeccable reputation, and hopefully we can keep her safe and try to understand what she’s involved in, but it must be big. The numbers refer to a Swiss bank account with no name listed. A password is needed to access it. I can only speculate.” He stopped with that thought.

“Our cipher people are always cautious when there is a specified date. There are adders or subtractors that could change the target date. Looks like we have several months. There must be someone or several ‘someones’ pulling the strings. With your help, we could get them.”

“And nail Suzy too, right? F*ck you!” Max shouted. People were really starting to stare now, and Greg knew when to keep his mouth shut.

The food was served, and both ate silently. Max’s appetite was gone.

“Let’s get the hell out of here. I need a drink!” Max threw his napkin down and walked out.

Greg followed him, throwing some bills on the table as he left.


42



Wesley, Delaney, and the rest of the crew were at a hotel near the Miami International Airport. Operations was more than comfortable with John’s decision to scratch the flight, especially since they had received a call ten minutes later from Homeland Security, grounding the flight. Wesley had made the right call. The rerouted passengers were disgruntled and complaining, but tough shit.

John and Allen, exhausted from the day’s events, were eating dinner in Allen’s room. Their eyes were glued to the television set.

The reporter was saying, “The number of those with flulike symptoms is rising. Medical facilities are filling rapidly as the scope of the pandemic widens. Flights in and out of New York City have been cancelled, and the New York City subway system is shut down until further notice. New York City residents are being asked to remain at home unless it is an absolute emergency.” John and Allen just looked at each other.

“Let’s call the hospital again about Terry.”

“Yes,” nodded John, and he added, “Let’s check on Maggie as well.”

“Maybe I can talk with Terry’s parents,” Allen said.

“I need to call my wife, too. Who knows how long we are going to be stuck here?” John stated. “Operations said to sit tight, so that is what we are going to do.”

He knew the airline backed up his decision to abort the flight. His concerns mounted when he learned that Homeland Security also made the call to ground the flight.

John grabbed his cell phone and called his wife, Dee Dee. “Hey, sweetheart, are you okay?”

“Yes, John, how are you doing? I have been so worried. The news is scary.” She sounded a little shaky, not usual for her.

John reassured her, “I’m okay, baby. We are just going to be stuck here for a while as a precaution.” She wanted to know if he had eaten. She had prepared dinner for them, but she would save the leftovers for tomorrow.

“Have you talked to the kids?” he asked.

“Yes, Abby is fine. She called, concerned about us. I reassured her, but I’m glad she and Cindy don’t live in the city. I left a voice mail for Cindy. She’ll call back soon.”

He said, “Good. Just remind them to stock up on necessities, enough for two weeks. They’re smart and will be okay, but it is good to touch base with them.” He asked, “How are the grocery supplies?”

“Fine, John. I did a large shopping on Saturday. We have enough groceries for at least a week or more,” she answered, puzzled by that question.

He said, “Maybe buy some extras, if you can, just to have on hand, like canned goods, extra flour and basics.”

Dee Dee said, “I shopped again this morning. I had forgotten a few things. Some of the store shelves seemed a little bare.”

John said, “I’m glad you bought some extras. Stores may run out of necessities if people start to panic.””

But she said, jokingly, “We have a good supply of scotch.”

He laughed and then said, “Cool, baby.”

“When will you be home?” Dee Dee knew the answer already.

“I am not sure, but I will stay in close touch, sweetheart. Don’t go out unless you have to, understood? And on second thought, call the girls again. Tell them to do the same. Have them stock up then sit tight until we see where this is going.”

“Yes, I’ll call them right away. Cindy may be home by now,” said Dee Dee, feeling even more frightened.

“Do you have any news about Maggie or Terry?” she asked.

“Allen is checking on them now, but so far no updates,” he answered. “I better go, but call me if you need anything. Try not to worry, and remember, I love you, baby.”

Dee Dee said, “I love you too, John. Be safe. I miss you so much.”

“I miss you, too, baby. I wish I was with you right now. You know my favorite color, right?” he asked.

She said, “Black satin?”

He laughed, saying, “Yes, or nothing at all.” He smiled when he heard her giggle, but he hated being away, especially during this unprecedented crisis. He had heard of pandemics, but he wasn’t quite sure what it all meant. And was this an attack or just a severe virus?

After hanging up, he listened to Allen, who was talking to Terry’s father. His face looked grim.

“F*ck,” thought John.

Wherever this was going, it was not going to be good. He was starting to wonder not when he would get home, but if he would get home.

John looked at the text he was receiving. It was from Century Air operations.

“DHS confirms shutdown of all NYC airports, plus New Jersey, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Chicago, and Miami. More information as available.”

“Shit! Damn!”

He turned to tell Allen, just as breaking news was announced on the television. He hoped this was some kind of bureaucratic over reaction, but his gut was telling him that a shit storm was coming, big time.


43



Suzy was sound asleep when she was startled awake by the distinctive ring of her encrypted phone. She knew it was the Organization.

“Yes, what is it?”

The familiar voice replied, “You are under scrutiny. Some as yet unknown operatives are looking into your background, specifically foreign ties and activities. You are involved with someone, a certain US Army Lieutenant Colonel. Is that correct?

Suddenly wide-awake, Suzy responded, “Yes, why?” Her stomach lurched.

The male voice, indistinguishable accent, continued, “You are to cut ties with him. Is that clear?”

It was not a question; it was an order. She didn’t tell him about the Greg Hammond incident. It seemed like a moot point now, but she was scared, and she couldn’t believe Max was somehow a danger to her mission or to her. How could he be? He loved her. At least he said he did. Had she somehow unknowingly revealed information? Or was it a setup? Was she his “assignment”? Her gut was wrenching as her thoughts raced. She considered all possibilities, even the most unimaginable ones.

“If I do so abruptly, it might raise suspicions,” Suzy pointed out.

The response was as expected. “Nothing must impede our mission, and if you wish for a positive outcome, shall we say, you will follow instructions immediately.”

“My fear is that it will alert him. Please allow me a few weeks to disengage. I will figure out a way. Much is at stake for me, as well.”

“Eliminate the Lieutenant Colonel from your life, or we will,” he stated.

Chills ran through Suzy’s body and she began to shake uncontrollably.

Silence followed on the other end. Then the sinister voice said, “Let’s accelerate our plan. 4 .6. Got it?” It was a threat. “Then if he somehow obtained information, we have changed the game.”

“Yes, 4.6. Got it.”

The line went dead.


44



Suzy got to Max’s townhouse an hour before he would get home from his Ft. Meade office. She had shopped for groceries and was going to prepare dinner for him to celebrate their five-month anniversary. She had his key and security code and let herself in, her arms tired from carrying the wine and several parcels. He had seemed distant lately, distracted about something. She had brushed it off as his preoccupation with his work. Maybe she was his “work.” Good job, Max, she thought. I fell for it, big time. Her anger was building. She heard the garage door open and knew she had to put her worries aside. It was easy to do because Max was the only happiness she had ever known, and in the deepest part of her being, she knew she could trust him with her life.

Max came in the door off the garage and heard Suzy in the kitchen. He had been looking forward to the evening, thinking of her delicious naked body all day. She was slicing vegetables when he came up behind her, wrapped his left arm around her, pulled her against him, while at the same time sweeping aside her long hair, and placing gentle, wet kisses on her slender neck.

She sighed, leaning against him, her back to his chest, saying, “Max, you’re going to make me cut myself.”

He reached around with one hand, grabbed her breast, and said, “Put the knife down.”

She turned, facing him, their lips meeting. Their deep kisses and touches were uncontrolled as they pushed against each other. She could feel his arousal through his slacks, and she touched him, making him even harder. He backed away, reluctantly, and said, “Baby, let me shower and I’ll be right back.”

Suzy was breathless from his kisses and his touch. She smiled at him and said, “Yes, go ahead. I’ll get dinner started, then we can share some wine.”

Suzy put the vegetables and marinated chicken in a casserole dish and placed it in the oven. She made a tossed garden salad and set the table with fresh flowers and candles. She found the chilled bottle of Riesling in the refrigerator, opened it, and poured the pale yellow liquid into a tall wine glass. The shower was still running as she walked into the steamy bathroom. She could see his image through the glass door, leaning against the wall, letting the hot water flow down his back. He turned around and shut the water off. Opening the shower door, he grabbed a thick towel from the towel rack and began drying himself. Suzy couldn’t stop admiring his muscular body and noticed he was still turned on.

“Darling, have a sip,” as she offered the glass to him.

He wrapped the towel around his waist, then took a generous sip of the refreshing wine, and set the wine glass on the countertop. She had on his favorite outfit. He loved her in casual low-cut jeans and sweater, and her wedged sandals. He tossed the towel onto tile floor and grabbed Suzy, kissing her hard, pulled her sweater up, and licked the delicious mounds of her breasts, pushing them together, pulling her bra down to suck each of her erect nipples. God, she wanted him. She was holding his head against her as he was licking and sucking each breast, her breathing rapid.

She stopped him, grabbed his face, and kissed him, her tongue in his mouth, and then grabbing his cock, bent down, her back to the mirror, Suzy took his hardness in her mouth, and Max gasped, saying “Oh my God, baby.” And he watched her in the mirror, which intensified his excitement. She didn’t want to stop licking, kissing, and tasting him, holding his body tight in her hands. He belonged only to her. But he forcefully grabbed her, unzipped her jeans, turned her around, slid her jeans and thong panties down, and bent her over the counter and found her wetness with his finger. Then he entered her completely. Suzy was breathing so hard, and he couldn’t stop, moving in and out of her with unimaginable raw pleasure, lifting her sweater, tearing her bra off, playing with her breasts. They both came violently, his body shuddering. His breathing was still heavy. Slowly, he began light kisses to her delicate shoulders and neck, and turned her around. Suzy bent down to lick him, tasting their intermingled love, and he pulled her up, kissed her mouth, wanting only Suzy forever, and his heart was aching.

He didn’t know any reality but the now, and he didn’t know that her heart was aching, as well, wondering what was the reality.


45



Suzy and Max had spent a wonderful Memorial weekend together, swimming on Saturday and relaxing by the pool. On Sunday, they had gone to Annapolis, walked around the shops at the harbor, and enjoyed a romantic dinner at one of their favorite restaurants. They sat on the patio, overlooking the water, eating off each other’s plates, drinking wine, just enjoying being together.

It was a special weekend, and Suzy had loved every moment but knew she had to be guarded. She had looked into who “Greg Hammond” was. She was relieved to find out that he had graduated from West Point the same year that Max had graduated. But why wouldn’t Max have told her? Why did he say it was a dental appointment reminder? Suzy couldn’t find any further information on Greg Hammond, which was perplexing. Max was especially attentive and loving. She had been watching him, looking for changes in his behavior toward her, but she found none. Though she knew something was wrong. The instructions to end the relationship were based on facts unknown to her, and it was imperative that she follow their orders. Maybe they were just being cautious, considering Max’s position. She had tried to be her natural self with him, which was easy because she loved him deeply and fully, and in her heart, Suzy believed that he felt the same about her. She knew this was to be their last weekend together. How could she give him up? She knew the answer.

As they drove back to Suzy’s condo, both were looking forward to their night together. Their sexual tension had been building throughout the day, even though they had made passionate love that morning. Max couldn’t erase the image of Suzy, earlier in the day, in her very brief aqua bikini, low-cut with ties on each side of the bottom, and the sexy top that nearly exposed her exquisite breasts and delicious erect nipples, pushing them nearly out of the suit. Her skin had tanned, and he loved the contrast of the tan against the delicate white skin covered by her bikini. They had swum together, hugging and playing in the water, diving deeply, watching each other as the sun glistened on their shapes. He was an athlete, moving gracefully, and she loved watching him, his strong shoulders, his broad defined chest, narrow hips, and muscular legs. His strength and masculinity were huge turn-ons. They had flirted and stolen kisses, trying not to be blatant around the others at the community pool, but it was well known that they were an “item” and the attraction they felt was obvious.

That evening, as they walked into her kitchen, they stopped to share a deep kiss. Max grabbed Suzy’s hand and began leading her up the curved hardwood staircase. He led her to her bedroom and began undressing her.

She was wearing only her lacy black panties and bra when she said, “Max, I would like to shower, okay?”

He said, “Yes, baby,” and she embraced him, giving him a lingering kiss, his arms enveloping her.

She giggled as she pulled away and said, “I’ll be back soon.”

“Hurry, baby, I can’t wait much longer.”

Suzy went into the bathroom. She threw her sexy panties and bra on the cream-colored marble vanity and turned on the shower. It took a moment for the water to warm, and Suzy stepped in. Grabbing the body gel, she began washing, and then suddenly Max was behind her, naked, his hands washing her, his arms around her, and she turned to face him, their kisses longing. Water was cascading down their bodies as they embraced.

She lathered her hands and began washing Max, making him turn and face the spray of water, and she slowly washed his shoulders, his back, and his hips, her hands touching him in every private place, feeling complete ownership of every part of him. She began washing and stroking his enormous hard cock, and all of his masculinity, and then she bent down and kissed him, her hands at play with all of him. He pulled her up and kissed her, his tongue in her mouth, his hand between her legs, touching her, saying love words, wanting her. With the water streaming over them, he lifted her, her legs wrapping around him.

He slid into her, and she moved up and down against him, moaning in his ear, “Oh Max, my love, I need you. Don’t ever stop,” as she had orgasm after orgasm.

He could feel her body responding to his hardness, tightening around his cock, and it drove him wild. He was thrusting and thrusting into her, and he came, exciting her even more. They had no awareness of anything, only each other, nothing separating one from the other. They were kissing, letting the cool water run over them.

Later, they lay in bed, naked, knowing they would make love again. They slept, wrapped together, and when they awoke, around midnight, they were ravenous. Suzy brought a tray of wine, cheese, and assorted crackers to bed, and they ate and sipped wine while watching television, enjoying being together, smiling, touching, kissing, sharing bites, and just being close. Afterward, they snuggled against each other, sharing their breaths, both happier than either had ever known.

Suzy was nestled against Max, his arm around her, her leg thrown over his. As Max fell asleep, he whispered,

“Talk to me, Suzy.”

She answered, “I love you, Max.”

Suzy knew this moment in time would be etched in her memory and heart forever. Max was her only everlasting love. He owned her, body and soul.


46



The Mayor’s Office

Tom Bennett, the Regional Homeland Security Director, began discussing the All Saints Hospital patients. The lab results indicated an unknown virus, but no clinical certainty of its type. Four other patients had been admitted there also, making the count seven, so far. He and Dr. Ambrose were deciding whether to transfer the patients from All Saints to the Edgewood Medical Facility. He had spoken to the hospital administrator, Jim Lucas, who wanted them moved to another facility to insure safety of their current patients and staff. Dr. David Grant, the All Saints ER director, had been adamant about protecting the hospital from the potential rapid spread of this dangerous virus.

Bennett was firm. “The patients must not be transported anywhere. We are not moving anyone at this point. We must keep risk of further exposure to a minimum. We will mobilize FEMA, notify the Health and Human Services Director, the National Guard, and all state governors. All cities with public transportation systems should be placed on high alert status, and a thorough search should be made for any suspicious packages or containers.” He continued, “Dr. Ambrose, I assume the CDC will notify all medical facilities.”

Dr. Ambrose said, “Yes, systems are in place for such notification. We will start working immediately on a vaccine. Several pharmaceutical companies will begin the manufacture of a vaccine as well.”

They all recognized the inability to secure the United States against the use of a bio-weapon or toxic agent. There had been great concerns about an attack of this nature, but this attack was more terrifying than any had expected.

Ambrose continued, “We need to alert the public so they can prepare. We must close schools, cancel events, and warn of possible disruption of services. The general public must be informed that they will need to buy extra supplies and items necessary for basic survival. We cannot predict the duration of this pandemic. We must be candid in all communications.

The Mayor said, “Yes, we’ll include safety information in my news conference as a precaution. I want to discourage panic. We’ll remind them to check the NYC website which has guidelines for dealing with pandemics. Mary and I will discuss, along with you, Tom, whether to shut down the financial district to minimize traffic in and out of the city.”

Bennett asked, “Agent Reed, has Quantico come up with anything on the canister?”

She answered by phone, “It tests positive for H5N1. We have nothing of consequence on the canister itself, but it appears to have been manufactured in the US. It resembles a common aerosol spray can used in fumigation applications, available in many hardware and pet stores, or even veterinarian offices.”

“Keep me informed,” he requested.

“Yes, sir,” she responded.

Mayor Donnelly asked Bennett, “Will you notify the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security and the President?”

“Yes,” he said, “that was my next move, Mr. Mayor.” And turning from him, he pulled out his secure cell phone.

“Jesus,” said Donnelly, under his breath. “We have a f*cking bird flu outbreak in f*cking New York City.”

George and Mark were listening raptly to the discussions, realizing a terrorist attack had occurred. The terrorist was perhaps homegrown, with easy access to the virus at the APG. Terrorist operations can be extremely elusive, especially if there are a small number of clandestine perpetrators involved. The magnitude of the attack was not anything that they expected. The full nature and implications of the expanding crisis were difficult to grasp.

Mayor Donnelly would release a statement to assure the populace that steps were being taken to contain the pandemic as quickly as possible. Those with symptoms were to seek immediate medical treatment. Those working in the city were to leave work, if possible, in an orderly fashion until further notice. All medical facilities and hospitals would be notified by the CDC.

Mayor Donnelly faced a great dilemma. Shutting down the city seemed out of the question. To do so could be catastrophic, and also, he would be giving the terrorist or terrorist group exactly what they wanted. He remembered 9/11 and the courage of the New York City residents. He knew they would handle this emergency bravely as well. But this was different, at least for now. He must lock down New York City, including Amtrak and all airports. The spread of this contagion must be halted.

Director Jacobs spoke up. “Georgiana, do you have anything to add in regards to the investigation?”

George said, “Yes, Ms. Jacobs. We have pertinent information that you need to know, before ending this meeting, if I may.”

She filled them in on the FBI findings and the ensuing investigation, starting at Edgewood. Everyone knew what had to be done. The heads of departments would remain in the Mayor’s office and use it as a “war room.”

The Mayor knew the virus had begun to spread throughout the city, state, or God knows where else. He called his press secretary, asking him to arrange for emergency television and radio announcements. The information would be available on the New York City website as well. FEMA and the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security would handle the national news reports. His assistant, Nancy, came in, and they began working on the most difficult speech he would ever deliver.

They were under attack by an invisible enemy, and panic must be averted. He would be relentless in hunting down whoever was responsible for this reprehensible act of terrorism. He gathered his strength and would rely on God’s direction for this one. He began composing the rough draft.


47



Without realizing it, Dr. Grant had fallen asleep at his desk, and the knock on his office door startled him. It was Chris.

He rubbed his eyes, ran his hands through his hair, and said, “What time is it?”

Before she could answer, the phone rang. It was Jim Lucas, the hospital administrator.

“Dave, we have some news from Dr. Ambrose, at the CDC.”

“Go ahead,” Dave said.

“We are dealing with an avian flu outbreak, a mutant strain.” Jim paused.

“Damn! Any word on moving these people to Edgewood?”

“No can do. They want to keep us isolated and not risk further exposure, if possible.”

Grant was pissed. “What else?”

“We will have more patients as this spreads. It appears to be weaponized, mutated to spread rapidly with a short incubation time frame.”

“What about anti-viral meds?” asked Dave.

“The CDC is gathering supplies. They will be distributed, starting with New York City hospitals, considered the ‘Impact Zone’ or ‘Strike Point’ then to other sites as this pandemic escalates.”

“I guess we have no choice,” said Dave.

“Correct,” said Jim.

Dave was quiet. “Are we getting routine food and medical supply deliveries?”

“Yes,” said Jim. “No problems, so far.”

“Our staff is bone tired.”

Jim said, “We are working on it. We are currently in lockdown. Only staff and severely ill patients are allowed to enter our facility. Security is at all entrances, including the employee entrance.”

“Have you told Frank?”

“Yes, he knows.”

“I’ll call him. I need to check patient status,” Dave stated.

Jim said, “It’s not good.”

Jim continued, “I’ve called a meeting of department heads for 4:00 p.m. My office. We need a plan to provide care and deal with this crisis, short and long term. I need everyone’s input on this.”

Dave said, “I’ll see you at four.”

Dave was thinking of the effects of this far-reaching pandemic on food, medical supplies, and other essentials. How far would it spread, and how long would it last? He had no answers, only questions. Grocery stores and drug stores would be packed. Hospitals would be overrun with sick patients. He wondered how long basic supplies would last, and he envisioned the potential desperation and the eventual chaos that would result. New York was the epicenter, and the storm was spreading.

“God help us,” said Dave as he hung up the phone. Chris was sitting on the sofa, transfixed by what Dave had said. He sat next to her, pulling her close. Their lips met, as he held her, no words needed.

Dave said to Chris, “I need to check on our staff, get updates on patient status, and may I ask you to make sure the staff lounges are comfortable and ready for breaks? We’re stretched thin.”

“Yes, Dave.” He could tell she was scared. He also knew she was on game and he could count on her.

“How are you feeling, sweetheart?” he asked. He could see dark circles under her eyes.

“I’m all right, just a little tired. That’s all. I am worried about you,” she said.

“No worries, Chris. We will get through this thing, but we both know what ‘pandemic’ means.”

“Yes,” she said.

He kissed her again, held her tightly against him, and then said, “Keeping our heads will keep others on track.” He knew she would have no problem with that.

“Come on, baby,” he said, opening the office door.


48



Mike was transfixed by Mayor Donnelly’s news conference. The Mayor was at the podium, in front of City Hall, surrounded by representatives of various agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, the NYC Police Commissioner, the FBI Regional Director, the Department of Defense, FEMA and other high ranking officials. The words weren’t quite making sense. Mike had some knowledge regarding viruses and specific strains, and of recent reports of avian flu and its transmission studies. The more he listened, the more his concerns mounted. The Mayor said that cases of avian flu had been reported by several hospitals in the New York City area. Other cities in New Jersey and Florida were reporting similar outbreaks. New York had declared a state of emergency, and flights in and out of New York City were cancelled.

The Mayor was asking the general public to remain calm but to use caution and stay at home, if possible, to prevent further spread of the contagion. No one was to leave home unless absolutely necessary. All government officials were to continue to report to work. Further reports and instructions would be forthcoming as more information became available. Stations would be set up by FEMA where protective face masks would be distributed. This was simply a precaution. The National Guard was being mobilized if needed. Mike wondered what that meant.

“There is nothing definite to report about this being a possible terrorist action. The FBI is investigating and will provide updates as soon as possible.”

The Mayor wanted to quell fears as much as possible.

After the Mayor again stressed that everyone remain calm, the director of FEMA took the podium. He explained further about face mask distribution and gave a government website that provided detailed instructions on dealing with pandemics. He also asked neighbors to help neighbors and for families to share supplies.

Mike was stunned. He grabbed the phone and called Pembrooke Academy. He spoke with the receptionist, asking about the children, and whether they would be dismissed early. She said no, but the school was aware of the subway incident, and they were monitoring all news reports. The administration was evaluating options that would best safeguard the children and she assured him that he would be notified if there were any changes in school policy.

He slammed the phone down and called Johns Hopkins, asking for the Isolation Unit.

“ICU isolation desk, may I help you?”

“Yes, I’m Mike Ryan, Maggie, uh, Margaret Ryan’s husband. How is she?” The clerk put him on hold as she connected him to the charge nurse.

“Barbara Knox speaking.”

Mike repeated his query, “How is Maggie Ryan, my wife? This is Mike Ryan.”

“Mr. Ryan, she is holding her own, though she has a fever and pneumonia. However, she is not worsening, which is encouraging.”

“May I see her?” He was plaintive, though he knew the answer.

“No, your safety must be ensured. Maggie is getting excellent care. And you realize Maggie would want you to stay put. Correct?”

Mike didn’t answer. She was correct. “Please tell her I called. May I call again?”

“Of course, Mr. Ryan.”

“Ms. Knox, do you have other patients arriving with Maggie’s symptoms?”

“None at present, Mike. And call me Barbara.”

“What has the lab determined regarding Maggie’s illness?”

“We are repeating the lab studies, but we have essentially confirmed the avian flu diagnosis. But you know Maggie is strong, young, and has no current health problems. Correct?”

“Yes, very healthy,” he responded, more hopeful.

“Then we have optimism about her prognosis. You did know that Maggie is pregnant.”

Mike sat back in his chair in stunned silence.


49



Donna had taken the baby to her mother’s home after Marty called about Joey being sick. It had been a happy day until then. Before the call, Donna had straightened the house, cleaned up the kitchen, and showered before Rosa woke up. Then she was busy, feeding the baby some rice cereal and baby food. Rosa had made sweet cooing noises and sighs, and smiled at her, which made Donna melt.

But now she was scared. She gathered some of the baby’s things and drove straight to her mom’s. Thank goodness her mom was home. They had been watching the news, which made Donna worry even more. She kept replaying, in her mind, the words that Joey had spoken when he had called. He sounded a little worried, but okay, strong, her Joey. After Marty called, her doubts had grown. Where did they take Joey? Why didn’t Marty tell her? It was just a precaution, he had said. She fully understood that she needed to keep the baby safe. She hated hospitals anyway, always fearful of germs and catching something, but she would give anything to be with him. Donna had dialed Joey’s cell phone number, but she only got his voice mail. He probably was busy, getting tests or being checked.

Donna and her mom, Elaine, had played with Rosa, then fed her again, and put her down in the port-a-crib that her mom kept in the spare room. Elaine loved the baby and doted on her. Life had been empty since Ed had died. It was sudden. He had a massive heart attack, and abruptly, life changed. The baby had filled some of the void though her mom’s heart was broken forever. Donna loved seeing her mom holding Rosa and the joy that it brought to her.

Donna and her mom kept the TV on, listening for further developments. It was more confusing now, and the subway was still shut down. The buses were running, which prevented traffic from coming to a total standstill. They both wanted things to be back to normal.

Donna said, “Mom, maybe I should call Marty. I need to know about Joey.”

Elaine said, “It can’t hurt to call. Do you know which hospital Joey went to?”

“No, I can’t remember exactly. I think Marty just said they were taking him to the doctor, just to get checked. And why hasn’t Joey called?” Donna wondered, aloud. “I’m calling Marty,” Donna decided and grabbed her cell phone from her jeans pocket. She found Marty’s office number in her contact list. She was glad Joey had given that to her. He was always thoughtful about things like that. She heard the ringing.

A man’s voice said, “Officer Lewis speaking.”

“This is Donna Caruso. I am trying to reach Marty, please.” Her voice sounded nervous.

“Are you Joey’s wife, ma’am?”

“Yes, sir,” she answered awkwardly.

“Ma’am, Marty had to step away from his desk. May I help you?” He was being very formal.

“Well, I want to know how Joey is doing. Marty said he went to the doctor. Is he okay? I can’t reach Joey on his cell phone, and I am getting worried.” Donna couldn’t hold back her tears.

“Mrs. Caruso, please be calm. Everything is under control. Your husband got nauseated, and Marty decided Joey needed to be checked out, as a precaution, and we haven’t heard back yet. But I know he is getting good care. As soon as I hear anything, I’ll call you right away, okay? There is no reason to be overly concerned, but I understand.” His voice was comforting. Donna felt better. “Where are you?” he asked.

“I’m at my mom’s, with Rosa, our baby,” Donna said. She gave him her cell phone number and her mother’s number.

“Good, you just sit tight there. Okay?”

“Yes, sir. Just tell Marty I called, please, and to call me when he can,” she requested.

“Will do, Mrs. Caruso.” Officer Lewis hung up.

He thought he had handled that the best way he could. What he had not told her was that Marty and several of the other maintenance guys had gotten sick, as well, plus his partner, Jack. There were only a few left in the subway station office, including several passengers who happened to be on the platform at the time of the quarantine. They were all waiting for answers. Right now, no one knew what was going on or why. All Lewis knew was that he was scared shitless. Who would be next?


50



Dr. Ambrose was getting regular updates about the virus and the measures being taken to halt its spread. He was deep in thought, analyzing all available information. Numerous medical facilities in New York and several in New Jersey were beginning to report patients’ arrivals, all with similar symptoms as those who had been in direct contact with the deadly viral release in the New York City subway station.

An advisory was received from Chicago regarding a dozen possible cases of the “flu” in question. Tests were being conducted to confirm if they were in fact the avian flu.

Miami University Medical Center had informed the CDC that they had received, in addition to the flight attendant, several other patients with the same symptoms, all of whom had been on Flight 227. They were quarantined.

The reports continued to trickle in, and now that the avian virus had been identified, time required for diagnosis confirmation was shortened. Dr. Ambrose’s concerns were growing as each report came in, showing the steady rise in the number of cases and a broadened geographic spread of the pandemic. He had studied the avian flu virus, and from all indications, it is rare and only transmitted from wild birds to domesticated birds, like turkey, chicken, and ducks, and then to humans, if eaten. Then pandemic risk can follow. When bird flu affects humans, it is often deadly. The mutated weaponized version of avian flu could continue mutating. The kill potential was vast and out of his range of expertise.

With advanced technology and a fast news cycle, he was hopeful that there might be the greater likelihood of containment of this apparent mutating virus. Keeping people at home, informed, for an as yet undetermined time frame, might save some lives, but many would still die or become severely ill, especially the very young, the elderly, or others at high risk. Outbreaks were unpredictable.

The CDC and the World Health Organization had experience tracking pandemics, going back to the 1918 worldwide flu outbreak, which was severe and deadly. Ambrose was well read on the Spanish flu, as it was called. Its duration had been approximately two years, and it killed between fifty and one hundred million people worldwide. Three percent of the entire world population had died, though 27 percent had been infected.

Dr. Ambrose also knew that some pandemics were more severe than others. This one, he was certain, would be one of the more severe. By definition, influenza pandemics occurred when a new variant of the influenza virus was transmitted to humans from another animal species, like the most recent 2009 flu pandemic. That one seemed to affect only young people.

All Dr. Ambrose could do was keep the Health Alert Network, Homeland Security, and FEMA alerted to the extent of this ongoing crisis and pray that it could be contained. The CDC was tracking the evolving pandemic and would start the process of developing a vaccine. Time was critical. It would take a minimum of three months to produce the needed vaccine. By then, he feared it might be too late.