Tactical Retreat (Closed for Destiny)

[RockYourWorld3976]

Matthew Chase, 47, industrialist and the head of an international management consulting firm.



The story takes place at Horizon’s Edge, an all inclusive Caribbean resort located on the fictional island of Escapar. The resort was built by Chase. Building the resort had been a labor of love for Chase, and one of his biggest dreams of he and his wife, Kathy. But shortly after it began accepting guests, Kathy died suddenly.

So much of her touch and taste went into Horizon’s Edge that being there only reminded him of Kathy. He left the operation of the resort to a separate corporation with its own management team. Years go by with Matt hardly thinking about Horizon’s Edge.

One day, at a meeting with European military leaders and contractors, Matt overhears a conversation where people speak of their recent stay at Horizon’s Edge. This brings a smile to his face, happy to know that his dream resort is bringing satisfaction to someone at least. But his interest is piqued further when the people talking refer to the resort as “Tactical Retreat,” a play on words brought about by the fact that the resort is popular with military personnel as well as people engaged in international intelligence gathering –spies. Matt returns to his business at hand, but files away his new knowledge.

Several weeks later, Matt’s assistant is approached by a woman named Barbara Palleto, asking for a face to face meeting with Matt. Barbara specifically asks that the meeting take place at Horizon’s Edge. Matt is intrigued by the bold request, especially after remembering what he overhead about the resort’s new growing reputation. He contacts Barbara and they agree on a day and time to meet at Horizon’s Edge.

The executive offices of Horizon’s Edge looked completely different than when he had last seen them. What had it been, five years? Yes, it had been six since Kathy’s death, and it took a year for Matt to realize that her ghost was too present here, and he took his leave, he thought for good.

But here he was again, at the mysterious request of this woman, Barbara Peletto, asking specifically that they meet here. Why was that? What was her interest in Horizon’s Edge? Had it anything to do with what he had heard about this becoming something of a spies’ nest over the past few years.

Upon arriving on Escapar and talking to those people he still recognized and with the resort management team, the idea of the place becoming a gathering place for the cloak and dagger crowd was a topic that seemed to bring a fidgety discomfort and very little discussion. Whatever was going on, maybe Barbara could shed some light.

He had suggested they meet in one of the better restaurants on the resort, but Barbara insisted they meet in private, at the resort’s management offices. This only intrigued Matt further, and he awaited her arrival.

 

[Destiny]

Barbara Palleto, 37, Undercover Agent for the CIA...Posing as a Liaison for the State Department of International Affairs for the US.


Barbara had been at Horizon's Edge a full week before the meeting that was to take place between her and the owner of the resort, was due to arrive. She wanted to get the feel of the place, also to recon the buildings that made up the entire resort. This would be her first assignment alone, she didn't want to mess this up. She could call in back up if she wanted too, but she wanted to prove herself. But with fifteen years of training under her belt she still couldn't keep the butterflies from filling her stomach and making her light headed. This was why she had requested the office meeting rather than eating in a restaraunt, and of course the privacy. But you wouldn't be able to tell that from her demeanor.

The owner of the resort had finally agreed to meet her, so here she was in her room forty-five minutes before the meeting and scanning her wardrobe. Not wanting to come off as some militant she-bitch, but also not wanting to come off as a scared teenager, she was agonizing over her outfit. Finally she settled on a white cotton jumpsuit, with tan accessories. The heat of the Caribbean could be brutal and it would hardly look chic to be sweating when she met the man. She went over in her head once more his file in her head, Matthew Chase, his friends called him Matt. He was 47, widowed 6 - 7 Years, she had forgotten that part. But it really didn't matter, and she moved to the folder and looked at his profile photo caress a finger along his chin. It was a handsome face and it brought smile to her lips as she regarded him, he looked like he laughed often. Shaking her head she sighed and finished her dressing, this was no time to moon over a man that she hadn't even met yet.

Twenty minutes later she was riding the elevator down as she adjusted her bracelets and then the belt at her waist, one more look in the mirror. Well this was as good as she was going to get. She walked across the lobby, drawing a few admiring gazes as she moved with an elegant grace. At the front desk they buzzed his office to announce her arrival, his assistant came out to greet her leading her to the office area. The room she was lead into did not fit what she had though would be his offices. She looked about the room and shrugged her shoulders slightly making a mental note to update the file to say he liked modern decor. Who knew it might make a difference with the profiler who documented everything.

The assistant lead her into his office and she spoke quietly," Mr. Chase will be right with you. Can I get you anything to drink?" Barbara demurred quietly smiling to put the assistant at ease," No I am fine. So I am to wait here? In his Office?" The assistant nodded," yes Miss, He should be along in a moment. He had a long distance call to take." Barbara nodded her head and she watched the assistant leave, but not close the door fully making her smile, definitely not trusted. Moving to the windows that over looked a spectacular view of the ocean and beyond she stood to await the man she was to meet.

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

Matt NEVER liked to go into a meeting with no idea what was going to happen. He had learned long ago that controlling a room was paramount in any meeting. Control the agenda, control the direction of the discussions, and control the outcome. To do it any other way was to play in to someone else’s hands, and that rarely served your purposes.

But for this meeting, he had no idea what to expect. This Barbara woman was completely unknown to him, Matt had no idea at all what she wanted, and he was having trouble seeing what any of this had to do with Horizon’s Edge, a place he had had no contact with at all for many years. Inquiries had been made, of course. Matt reached out to government friends and people he knew that might know something about this Barbara, or what her business might be. Whoever she was, she hid her identity and her agenda well. Maybe Matt needed new contacts and sources of information.

Matt checked the mirror before making his entrance. Today, he was following his strict rule whenever doing business in warm, relaxing climates….no tie, no sportcoat. It would take visiting royalty to get him to wear a suit at Horizon’s Edge. Luckily, most people agreed with this approach, with even the highest level of business matters being discussed by very casually dressed people here in the islands. Matt hopefully looked relaxed in his linen slacks and white dress shirt, top two buttons undone. His freshly cropped hair and newly trimmed facial hair met his quick approval, and he reached for the door.

There she was, standing at the window. He had to stop and just look. She was beautiful.

Matt kicked himself, having fallen into the trap of making assumptions about this woman. When he heard “federal government employee,” he assumed a meek, bookish, some would even say nerdy person. Eyeglasses perched on the tip of her nose, hair carelessly tied above her head, her clothing old and disheveled.

Not Barbara. He composed himself and smiled, taking a step quickly in a vain attempt to hide the fact he had stopped.

“Ms. Pelleto, hello, I’m Matt Chase,” he said, holding out his hand to her. “Welcome to Horizon’s Edge.”

She seemed to radiate light as she stood by the window. As they shook hands, Matt felt a calm strength about her, something of a self-assuredness. He was a successful person because he could read people – most of the time anyway. Matt had a feeling this meeting was going to be unlike any he had attended in some time.

“I think we’d be more comfortable over here. Please, have a seat on the couch.”

He lead her over to the furniture, waiting for her to sit on the couch before he sat in an overstuffed chair across from her. Her perfume made its presence known and it was, of course, pleasant. Her attire was perfect for the climate, if not exactly revealing. Now there was a thought….this lovely lady in a bathing suit……perhaps a bikini.

Scolding himself internally, Matt returned to reality and smiled at Barbara.

“I have to say, what it is exactly you wanted to see me about is a complete and total mystery. What can I do for you?”

 

[Destiny]

Lights. Camera. Action..

The sound from the outer office was faint, but she had been waiting for it. When he walked into the room she felt him before she ever saw his face. He was one of those people that could make a woman sit up straighter and try to draw his gaze. Well at least he did for her. His picture didn't do him any justice, this was a man that was used to being in control. fuck.

She hadn't even noticed his pause after entering, she was fighting to keep her heart from hammering out of her chest. Get your head in the game, Barbara. Plastering on a smile she moved across the room to shake the man's hand, it was a firm warm grip that made her skin prickle a little bit. "Thank you for agreeing to meet with me, Mr Chase." She Smiled a bit at the name, "Must be difficult having to first names. Do you mind if I call you Matt, and you can call me Barbara. What I have to talk about will I hope allow us to be friends of a sort." Her voice was like silk wrapped chocolate and had a southern drawl to it that could only be old money. She had a light jasmine scent about her, the kind that you smell on a warm summer night.

Sliding her hand from the handshake she inclined her head as you took over the conversation once more and she moved to the indicated seating arrangement, settling in she crosses her ankles and placed her hands on her lap before continuing. You are supposed to be controlling this meeting, how can you control it if you are sitting. The smile never wavered and thank god thoughts didn't get broadcasted. "I know that this might come as a shock to you Mr..." she paused smiling and then continued, "Matt But your resort is very popular with a certain shade of people."

She couldn't talk and sit still, she rose to her feet, and turned her back to you as she continued, " You see I work for the state department, I am a liaison for various individuals that would like to have a bit more exclusive use of Horizon's Edge. " Turning around she slipped her hands behind her back so that you couldn't see her fidgeting with her bracelet as she spoke. Bad habits were hard to break, and she could tell a story but outright lying made her fidget.

"The reason I am here is to basically have you help me, as the owner you can give me a bit more in depth idea of your beautiful establishment. I can then make recommendations to my superiors and you can make a much higher profit for your help." Her smile never wavered and she chuckled and the gestured about the room. " This office for instance could allow for some surveillance, of your Public areas. We have reason to believe that a rather unsavory individual is planning on coming to stay here and we would just like to monitor his movements. With your approval of course."

As she spoke she began to move getting more and more into character. " And I know with your connections and your personality, that you would hate to have your resort used as anything unsavory. I mean you and your wife did build this as a paradise for lovers, not drug lords and other unsavory people. " Looking at you she watched to see if having mentioned your wife would affect you in anyway. The intel was, that you had left the resort because she had been instrumental in the building, planning and design of Horizon's Edge. Her death had been tragic and you had left after doing a year of mourning.

Moving to the seat now opposite you she settled once more and let her eyes continue to meet your own,"We are really in a bind with this Matt and it would be very helpful if you would allow this to happen." Reaching up she slid a finger along her neck flipping a lock of hair back along her shoulder, waiting for your response.

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me, Mr Chase. Must be difficult having to first names. Do you mind if I call you Matt, and you can call me Barbara.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Barbara, and yes, please, call me Matt. And it’s interesting you should mention the two first names. I actually met someone named Chase Matthews. I felt like he and I were related in some way.”

Matt struggled to get his bearings as the meeting seemed to take off at lightning speed. Any thought he had of controlling or dictating the agenda went out the window as soon as he saw this stunning woman. That certainly wasn’t his pattern. He had done business with many beautiful women. Many times, the business was mutually beneficial. Other times, the woman walked away disappointed, not obtaining the agreement she had hoped for. Matt admired beauty, but never before now had the presence of a stunningly beautiful woman so knocked Matt off of his game. Her voice, her scent….Matt needed to get a hold of himself.

“Your resort is very popular with a certain shade of people….” As she rose to step around to the back of the couch, she had Matt’s attention. Finally, something he could connect. This has something to do with what he overheard during his trip to Europe, about spies or some such people gathering here. He was definitely interested in what she had to say.

This office for instance could allow for some surveillance, of your Public areas. We have reason to believe that a rather unsavory individual is planning on coming to stay here and we would just like to monitor his movements. With your approval of course."

“I have to tell you, this does not come as a complete surprise to me.” Matt may have said that in order to make himself look relevant to this conversation, which so far he didn’t feel as though he was. “A few months back, I overheard people talking about Horizon’s Edge. They didn’t know who I was or that I was listening. They said pretty much what you said…the place was a nest for spies. I didn’t know what to think, I had pretty much handed off control and operation of the place to a whole different group of people. What you’re suggesting, it would need to involve these new managers, but what you’re describing, I don’t know, it sounds very…..dangerous.”

Having voiced his thoughts on this very unusual situation, Matt was content to see where this went, even if he and Barbara didn’t resolve it during this meeting. Yes, he had neglected Horizon’s Edge for many years, or at least turned over control. Hearing that it had fallen into some sort of ill repute saddened him, and he knew he couldn’t let it stand. The best part of this was this stunningly beautiful woman was in position to help.

"We are really in a bind with this Matt and it would be very helpful if you would allow this to happen."

“Suppose I say let’s see what we can work out. I’m always ready to help my country, although I don’t deny that by doing so will help my bottom line.” He watched her flip her hair back in an incredibly sexy move, causing him to strain to keep control.

“Perhaps we can talk about it over dinner. It’s been a while since I’ve been to Horizon’s Edge, but I think I still have some pull at the finer restaurants around here. Say I have a car pick you up at your hotel at 7:00?”

 

[Destiny]

During the discourse, she had paused to allow him to fill her in on what he had found out. She had paused in the appropriate places and nodded her understanding. She hadn't realized he had heard anything and this would have to be reported to the profilers. She would need to know who his contacts were so that, no more information would come to him that wasn't fully policed before hand.

She knew a dismissal when she heard one, and this man was basically asking her to leave. Barbara knew why as well, those contacts. Rising to her full height as she did so ran her hands along her hips to smooth out any missed wrinkles allowing the fabric to fall correctly. Moving closer to Matt, she extended her hand, her subtle perfume floating about her. "As you wish Matt," her lips switched on a small chuckle, "since I am staying here at Horizon's Edge, I am sure you will be able to find me. I will see you at 7 then in the lobby?"

After shaking his hand once more she inclined her head turned and walked toward the door, feeling his gaze slide along her full length. Her mind immediately moved into gear, calls to be made, people to contact and plans to be made. Barbara, wasn't stupid, she knew why she had been chosen for the job, she was from old money, knew how to operate in high society. Her looks helped a lot in that endeavor too, taking a deep breath she nodded to the assistant and advised her that she would find her own way back to the main lobby.

Making it back to her room she kicked off her shoes and grabbed the laptop, she rapid typed out a missive and sent it out to all parties. Three more calls later and she was assured that what Matt Chase knew was rumor basically, nothing substantial and she was still a go for her main operation. The final call of the day," Yes I understand, No Sir. I can do this without a problem. No I do not need back-up until our suspect arrives." A pause and she continued," Yes one week I will have everything set up by then." She hung up the phone and took a deep steadying breath and walked to the closet to decide her wardrobe for the evening.

Time for dinner....

The crazy thing about the Caribbean, you could have a sweltering day but come the evening it could be chilly Dressing for the dinner shouldn't be a chore. She had bathed actually, savoring the rich feel of her favorite body wash special made with her Jasmine scent. She chuckled to herself, " some secret agent you are... give you a hot bath and you would sing like a canary." Shaking her head she stepped from the tub and dried herself off padding into the room and looking over the clothing she had chosen.

The red cold shoulder dress lay on the bed with a pair of black silk stockings. Drying off her body she moved to the dresser and dabbed her perfume along her neck, wrists, and abdomen. She chuckled remembering her mother's old comment, you can never smell too good. Stepping back to the bed she dressed in the stockings and then the dress, adjusting it to fit over her body. Moving to the mirror she examined the body hugging dress and smiled. It had been an impulse buy and she decided that she had made a good choice. Slipping on her heels she gathered up a silk wrap and her clutch and headed down to the lobby.

She was a bit shocked to see him standing at the elevator waiting for her," I hope I didn't keep you waiting long Matt?"

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

After Barbara left his office, Matt sat down at his desk and called for his team of assistants to come in. He traveled with some key members of his staff, but for this trip he had asked his Chief of Security, Jack Stewart to come along.

Jack was former US Army, a 20 year man who had deployed to pretty much every part of the world during his career. Holding his position with Matt for over five years, there had been no situation that Jack hadn't been able to handle quickly and effectively. Mostly, his job involved being ahead of the curve, protecting Matt and his employees from dangers before they became acute.

Also traveling with Matt was Dyanne Baily. Dyanne was the sort of valuable staff member that every good organization needed. She took on special projects as they arose, regardless of their nature. When Matt had originally heard the rumor about Horizon’s Edge in Europe, he mentally filed away the information. But when Barbara came out of nowhere and asked to meet here, Matt put Dyanne in touch with Jack. Matt didn’t believe in coincidences.

“I’ve invited her to dinner,” Matt said, looking at Jack. “She doesn’t set off alarm bells when she talks to me, but that’s why I need someone like you around….you hear alarms that I don’t. We’ll be having dinner at the Comer Bien. Watch who goes in before, during, and after we do. You know what to do.” Jack nodded confidently as Matt turned to Dyanne.

“What have you been able to find out?”

“Well,” Dyanne said, looking down to a tablet she was carrying, swiping as she talked. “She’s either legit CIA, or she has the most thorough and amazing conterfit profile. 15 year agency vet, assignments mostly domestic, but several in North Africa and the Middle East. A few maybe in South America, but my info on that is sketchy. I’ll keep looking. Comes from a prominent family. Money, influence…..” Dyanne looked to Matt with a rye smile on her face. “Sound familiar?” Dyanne and Jack laughed.

“Very funny, you two,” Matt said as he gathered his belongings. He pressed what looked like a car key fob which was actually a signaler to his driver, Stephon, to bring the car to the building entrance.

“Keep close by when we’re in the restaurant. But no microphones or recording devices….If she’s who she says she is, and really wants what she says she wants, this may be as simple as helping her do just that.”

“But if not,” Jack interjected, “we’re prepared.”

“She’s staying at the Cala Turquesa, said Dyanne. “Meet her there. Surprising her will tell her you’ve been doing some homework.”

Matt looked up and smiled. “Good work, as always. Thanks. Off to dinner!”

Getting in his car, Matt could tell the heat had increased just in the few hours he had been in the office. Some people complained about heat, but Matt enjoyed it. He found it comfortable. Cold was to be avoided. Any business travel to cold locales was kept to the minimal duration.

The Horizon’s Edge managers had arranged a prime villa for Matt for the length of his stay. It was a short drive and Matt told Stephon he would only be a few minutes. Inside, he took off his shirt and pulled a fresh one from his closet, laying it on the bed. He freshened up with some cologne, put on the shirt, and looked in the mirror. Ready to go.

As he was returning to the car, he saw Stephon sitting in the driver’s seat, on the phone. Stephon glanced over his shoulder, seeing Matt emerging from the villa, and made a move to get out and open the door for Matt. Matt quickly waved him off and opened the back door of the car and let himself in.

Ending his call, Stephon looked to Matt. “It was Jack, telling me where to park. He doesn’t think you’ll need to make an escape, but you know Jack.”

“Yes, I know Jack,” Matt said, smiling. “The man checks his GPS when he walks his dog.”

On the drive to Barbara’s hotel, Stephon grilled Matt about the mystery lady, inquiring about her, her looks, her style. Matt told him he’d be able to see for himself when she got in the car. Stephon joked that he hoped he wasn’t disappointed.

Matt opened the car door as Stephon pulled up to the Cala Turquesa, preparing to let himself out just as he had let himself in.

“You won’t be,” he said, winking to Stephon.

The bank of elevators were off to the right of the lobby. The glass enclosures provided a signature view of the ocean as you rose up and down the height of the building. They also allowed those on the ground to see who was in the enclosures, and Matt glanced up just in time to see Barbara descending to the lobby, a lovely red dress shimmering in the late sunlight of the day. He smiled, which surprised himself somewhat, and he walked toward her elevator, and the door opened.

“I hope I didn't keep you waiting long Matt?”

“Not at all, I just arrived,” Matt said, his smile increasing as he gently took her arm. “This way, my car is waiting at the front door.

 

[Destiny]

She felt the heat of his hand on her arm before he even touched her, smiling toward him she inclined her head as she was lead to awaiting car.

Walking along on the arm of a man like Matt, was like walking with a guardian. He exuded confidence deserving the best and receiving everything he deserved. Several women admired him as he walked beside her and she gave a mental shake of her head. If they only knew. Finally as they arrived at the car, he introduced the driver. She found that appealing as it showed he valued his staff. "Barbara, this is my driver Stephon. He will be taking us to our location. Stephon, this is Miss Pelleto."

Stephon's gaze could have been stone for all that he gave a hint that he found the red head on his bosses arm a stunner. Her legs went on for miles and the thought that ran through his head could have been banned in several countries. But not one thought showed on his face as he touched his hat," Nice to meet you Miss." He held the door as they entered the car, just before Matt got into the car he heard Stephon mumble," definitely not disappointed."

Settled into the car she smiled as she scooted along the seat her skirt riding up a bit to show that the thigh highs are not connected to anything. She adjusted the skirt hoping you hadn't noticed," So Matt where are you whisking me off too?"

Watching you get comfortable," we are going to the Comer Bien, it is one of the more eloquent restaurants in town and I think you will enjoy the cuisine."

"Ah, that mean 'eat well' In Spanish, does it not?" As shes spoke she kept her thighs together and bent her knees toward Matt and turned to face him a bit. "I took some Spanish when I was in college, back in Virginia. Nothing spectacular I can assure you. Actually my Spanish teacher disparaged hearing me talk. What with my accent and it never came across sounding smooth."

Arriving at the restaurant, she knew you had security, a man of your power and prestige had to have someone watching his back. She looked about to see if anyone stuck out, but of course they didn't. As the door opened and you exited and she did, she adjusted her skirt and then smiled taking her clutch from your hand. You could see Stephon sliding his gaze along her body and you shook your head. His wring grin said he couldn't help it.

When your hand went to her back to lead her to your location she turned and grinned at you with a soft chuckle," Tell me have you been here before with your wife?" She hadn't gotten much of a sense from you when she had mentioned her before, she need to see if you still cared.

The restaurant was all that elegant could be, adobed walls outside were garnished with the local plants and fauna a door man opened the door. She was impressed," I thought it was going to be a simple dinner Matt? I am merely a civil servant."

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

Matt felt like a billion bucks as he and Barbara entered Comer Bien. The place was not even a quarter full, which was fine with Matt. Still, the present patrons turned to see the stunning woman in the red dress with shimmering black stockings, elegantly walking toward her table, lead by the Matre’d. A few of the people may have noticed that Matt was there, too.

They were seated and decided to share a bottle of wine.

“It was interesting you asked about my wife,” Matt said with a disarming smile. “Actually, she had much to do with where the restaurants were located throughout the resort. She had known the people operating this particular one from previous experiences, and knew this would be popular. As with most things concerning Horizon’s Edge, she was right.”

Matt wondered about Barbara asking about his wife. Was she just curious? Seeing if he still kept a torch lit for her? Or, was it more her seeing if Matt was emotionally available?

Maybe it was none of the above, and this was just a business meeting. Barbara was enchanting, and certainly pleasing to the eyes. However this turned out would be fine with him.

But thoughts of her returning with him to the villa persisted……

“So being the dedicated civil servant you are, can you tell me about this unsavory sort you expect to visit the island?”

As they chatted, Matt knew that her position most likely prevented her from divulging much information. Still, if he was going to allow surveillance to take place in his offices, and around his resort, he had a right to know such things, at least on a superficial level.

He made sure their wine glasses were filled. As he drank more and more, he began to notice the color of her red dress was not far from that of the wine. She looked as delicious as the wine, he thought to himself. He was sure she could see him practically staring at her, but he didn’t care. This woman had dropped from the sky, and he hoped he could maximize experiencing everything she had to offer.

They discussed business, the dangers ahead. Matt asked her if there were any parts of her plan that could be undertaken in the next few days, and if he or any of his staff could assist.

He hoped his cooperation would result in a multi-level arrangement, personal as well as business, one which perhaps lead her to his villa, more than one time.

As Barbara talked, and they drank their wine, Matt softly reached out to touch Barbara’s hand.

 

[Destiny]

Settled into the comfortable seating she smiled as you both decided on a wine and then accepted the menus for the food. The waiter returned the orders were placed and she finally took up her glass of Wine to turn it slowly in her hand occasionally sipping the red concoction. As she spoke to Matt she would glance about the room looking watching and finally saw what she was looking for meeting his gaze directly. Body guard located. She had know he was about, the dossier on Matt had been thorough and while unconcerned for the added scrutiny she wasn't prepared to leave anything to chance.

Focusing fully on Matt once more she gave him the most dazzling smile to set him at ease. And she leaned back a bit in her chair still holding the glass, the skirt of the dress barely riding the tops of the black stocking she wore. " My apologies if I am bringing up bad memories, there was just never any closure to that file for your wife. If I am prying I apologizes but we did verify a few things about you. Her death was never solved."

Her eyes found yours once more after she had been staring into the glass and continued," The man is supposedly head of the weapons cartel that would lead our country at a disadvantage and could perhaps bring about more killings in America proper. He has control of nuclear weapons that could be used internally to the detriment of so many."

As the glass was filled and then refilled she listened to his questions and answered them as they need to be never offering more then what was required to be known.

"Yes we can have the hotel wired and Monitored with out too much notice by our patrons or staff even. We are used to doing things on the down low as you will, Matt. " Replacing her glass on the table she leaned forward and rested her arms on the table her dress tightening across her breasts a she moved. If you have staff that you would like involved they will have to undergo a thorough back ground check as you will know." Her eyes never left his face as she continued," You know how this works Matt, if you help us. We help you."

When he reached out to take her hand she paused not having expected that, her lips parted and she took a deep breath and she smiled back at him," So I take it we have a deal then?"

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

“I’d be happy to do whatever it is you need to get this done”, said Matt. “It sounds important, and this place seems to be uniquely positioned to help in a very specific way.” Matt picked up his wine glass and help it up as if to toast. “Here’s to catching the bad guy.”

He and Barbara agreed to make staff members from each side available to make arrangements, with Barbara repeating the need to have backgrounds checked. Matt assured her all would be arranged.

That seemed to bring the preliminary business discussions to an end, and as if on cue, their food arrived. Matt commented on the pleasant aroma of the food, bringing a rush of memory back to him – he hadn’t enjoyed the food in this place for over 6 years. This hopefully opened the door to some more friendly give and take.

“Does your work allow you to keep a residence in one place, or are you traveling most of the time?” He wasn’t sure he’d get answers from Barbara about her personal life, or at least honest answers, but he would never know if he didn’t ask.

“Was this the type of work you planned to do from when you were in school, or did you come upon it later?”

He knew he probably shouldn’t have touched her hand, and he was regretting that now, but he still had a need to make a connection to this woman.

She asked about his work, his upbringing, his marriage and his family, and he shared fully and willingly. The dinner was relaxed and personable. If Barbara wasn’t having a good time, she was a good actress. But Matt had to remember what she did for a living.

Even if he had been rebuffed when he touched her hand, Matt knew he would be seeing her again, even if it only involved business. He would take what he could get.

He reached for the wine bottle, their second bottle and emptied into his and Barbara’s glass.

“So when do you expect I’ll see you again, Barbara?”

 

[Destiny]

Lifting her glass to toast with Matt, she was surprised at the amount of alcohol they were going through and she put it in the back of her mind to find out if Matt perhaps had used this ploy before to get something for a bit of drink. He didn't seem the type but one could never tell.

When He made assurances to her about he background checks she listened and noted the names her told her about, ticking off the people she would need to get in contact with about his people in her head. The wine was making it a bit difficult to remember all everything. But perhaps that was his intent. She began to only sip the wine going forward.

When the food arrived she smiled appreciatively making another mental note of many, to find someplace to workout. She was going to need it if she was going to eat like this. as they ate and he peppered her with more personal questions she responded in vague comments.

"I have a room at my parents home when I need down time away from my work. Of course I really haven't had a vacation in years and I am never home for the holidays anymore. Much to my mother's chagrin." Her eyes would meet his a she spoke so he could see the sincerity in her answers, hard to lie when you are looking someone straight in the face. " Actually my father is in politics, and so was his father and his father before him. Being an only child and female... well I wanted to make my father proud so here I am."

She reached out and placed her hand on the sleeve of his jacket a she spoke, " Honestly though if you would rather have someone else to work with you on this... I will understand. Men like you rarely want to let a woman take over some situations."

Taking another drink of her wine she licked her lips of the drink as he assured her that he really didn't mind working with her and as he poured the rest of he second bottle into her glass and asked her if he could see her again she was shocked.

"Well am sure you will see me almost daily for awhile... I am sure you will get tired of me after we are all set up." She removed her hand from his arm and continued," I mean.. what with all the work we will be doing. Or did you mean in a less professional manner?"

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

Being with Barbara lead Matt to think of his romantic history. At the top of his list, of course was Kathy. They shared 16 years of marriage before her sudden death. While by no sense perfect, their marriage was a happy one.

When Matt thought of Kathy, he remembered how she saw through him for who he really was…she saw beyond the wealth and its trappings, the influence he enjoyed in the business world, and the fast pace of his daily life. She saw Matt as a simple east coast kid, and they based a happy life on their mutual perceptions of each other.

Before Matt met Kathy, and since she had gone, Matt had decided that female companionship would take a back seat in his life. That may have seemed like a 75 year old man with sore knees deciding that he wasn’t going to try to win an Olympic gold medal in the 100 meter dash, but the end result was the same.

When his emotional fences came down, and he let someone in, Matt knew she wasn’t meeting a woman that you could “take home to meet mom.” He could tell it was about his money, the cars, the travel, and the houses. He put up with it until either he couldn’t take it any more, or the woman grew bored with him, which was the more frequent occurrence. Matt bounced back and forth between being alone and enduring the company of a woman interested only in his money. Only a remarkable woman would break that spell.

Barbara was a remarkable woman. She was unlike any woman he mad met – ever. How often does a CIA agent walk into your life and introduce herself? If he was waiting for a woman that was coming into his life that didn’t care about his money, his business, all of that, that was Barbara. But it wasn’t that exactly….she WAS interested in his business, in who he was in the business world. There was something she wanted from him, but she was transparent about it. She meant what she said, and said what she meant. So much of what Matt had that some women took advantage of, Barbara had a litgimate and real interest in.

For the first time in a long time, Matt was ready to put himself out on the line, with the very real chance of rejection. But he knew he had to take the chance.

"Well I am sure you will see me almost daily for awhile... I am sure you will get tired of me after we are all set up." She removed her hand from his arm and continued," I mean.. what with all the work we will be doing. Or did you mean in a less professional manner?"

“Don’t worry about me getting tired of you, Barbara,” Matt said with a shy smile. He wondered if he was blushing. “And I like the idea of seeing you every day. And please, remove any thought from your mind about me wanting anyone else to take care of the situation you described to me…I can tell you’re very prepared and ready to do what needs to be done.”

He remembered the touch of her hand, and her touch on her sleeve. He wondered if that would be the entire length of their exploration, or if her treasures would remain elusive. Not trying was the only way he would ever know.

“As far as a less-professional manner, all I can offer is dinners at nice restaurants like this, or alone at home in my villa. And maybe a day out on my boat from time to time. Or days at the beach, or poolside now and then.”

Matt knew it was all on the line, so he didn’t hold back. He touched her hand again. “And I hear the night life is fun here as well.” He smiled. Then withdrew his hand. The ball was in her court.

“I know you have very serious work to do, and I will see that you get any assistance you need. But I find you incredibly attractive and intriguing. If while this work is going on, we were able to get to know each other better, I would like that very much.”

 

[Destiny]

A smile caressed her lips when he took her hand and then as she released it she left it on the table where he had left it. She watched him and she was a bit surprised that he seemed to be nervous almost boyish as he complimented her and then asked her out.

“As far as a less-professional manner, all I can offer is dinners at nice restaurants like this, or alone at home in my villa. And maybe a day out on my boat from time to time. Or days at the beach, or poolside now and then.”

"Honestly Matt, I don't think that would be a problem. I do like to go out on boats. I also am a very good swimmer. The information we have on the man coming to stay at your resort is not do to arrive for at least a month it is going to take most of my crew that amount of time to get everything set up." Taking another sip of her wine she placed the glass on the table. " All of those things you mentioned sound lovely Matt."

She sat back in her chair her eyes on him as she then grinned, "But I think perhaps for now we should get back to the Hotel. I have a few emails to type up and I should get my team in to get your office ready for the surveillance set up. Also just to let you know... what we set up you will keep after we are done." She knew he didn't care about the equipment and could have afforded it all on his own. But she wanted to steer the meeting back to safer ground.

She rose from her seat as he did as well an the bill was settled and he was leading her back to the car. The heat of his hand at her back made her skin tingle where he touched her, she couldn't understand how that was possible. She barely knew him, she shook her head slightly as they began the ride back to the hotel.

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

Sitting in the back of the car, Stephon steady as always at the wheel, Matt looked out the windows, then over to Barbara.

“The offer to take you back to your hotel is there…if that’s what you want, I’ll respect that and we’ll see each other the next time, whenever that is.”

He looked down, almost giving the impressing that he was moving closer to her.

“But maybe if you’re not doing anything else, I could interest you in coming back to my villa…another bottle of wine, and maybe a walk on the beach?” He saw her considering his offer, and felt the need to make a joke.

“You don’t need to worry about being alone with me. Someone in your line of work can take care of herself!” They both laughed.

Stephon, unaware of any potential change of plans, pulled up to Barbara’s hotel. Stopping the car, he got out and opened her door.

I’ll go back to my villa, shower and change. You take a little time for yourself, and I’ll have Stephon come back and pick you up.”

Back at the villa, Matt wondered if he would see Barbara again tonight. He knew she would have every opportunity to tell Stephon to relay the message that it had been a long day and she was tired….needed rest for tomorrow, and the like. But all he could do is hope for the best and prepare for it.

He showered quickly, not knowing when Barbara would show, if she did. Looking through his clothes, he selected a pair of khaki shorts and another white dress shirt. He had been wearing a white shirt, but he liked how this one looked with the shorts. He pulled out the one pair of flip-flops he had, hoping they would convey the casualness he was feeling.

They had drank two bottles of wine during dinner, and Matt was feeling quite tipsy, but nothing says romance like wine, so he selected a body from the rack and took out two glasses. He looked around and found a picnic basket that was tucked under the kitchen counter. He put the glasses in there, then went to the living room and picked up a blanket off the couch. That fit snugly in the basket.

Simple, yet not over the top. Wine, a blanket, and a sunset. All Matt could do now is wait.

 

[Destiny]

Having gone to her rooms, she headed to her lap top and sent off a few short emails detailing the conversations and the people to do a background check on. Finally finished with those task, Barbara wasn't sure if she should accept the offer of drinks and a walk on the beach.

Walking to the bathroom she stripped off the dress, stockings and shoes grateful to finally be out of 'business' attire for the day and she looked at the clock. She wrinkled her nose as she looked at her clothing and then took a deep breath slowly letting it out on a sigh and headed to the phone to call the front desk to decline the offer. The phone in her hand she looked out at the setting sun and changed her mind.

Dressing in a pair of khaki shorts that hugged her hips ad ass with the turned up hems. She slipped on a white tank top and then a open khaki shirt completed the assemble. Shoes, She really hated shoes... and yet she would need to wear some. Finding a pair of strappy sandals she laced them up her legs.

Leaving her phone on the bed she grabbed her key-card and strolled down to the front lobby and awaited Stephon's arrival. Within a few moments she arrived at the villa that belonged to Matt and she thanked Stephon and walked into the Villa at Stephon's comment that Matt was awaiting her inside.

"Matt? Stephon said to just come inside."

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

"Matt? Stephon said to just come inside."

The sound of Barbara’s voice brought a smile to Matt’s face. “Of course, Barbara. If it’s ok with you, we can stroll straight out to the beach.”

His smile stayed on his face as he walked over to the picnic basket, picked it up and lead Barbara to the back door.

“It’s right this way,” he said, as if leading her to a mystical wonderland. They crossed under a portico, which ended at the top of a long stairway which lead to the beach.

“I’m so glad you came tonight,” he said in a quieter, calmer voice, signifying his growing level of relaxation. “Meeting you here has actually given me the opportunity to reacquaint myself with the island and resort. I had left it to other’s hands long before these villas were completed. I’m impressed with how they turned out.”

He hoped he didn’t sound boring. Here was a woman that chased bad people all over the world and he was talking about villas. But she excited him, and he felt the need to share with her what he had, or what was associated with him, at least. They arrived at the bottom of the stares and increased their effort as they stepped in the sand. Matt knew of a spot where the beach curved in for a short distance, allowing them at least a little privacy. When they arrived, he took the blanket out, laid it down and held Barbara’s hand as she sat down.

He reached into the basket for the bottle of wine, worked the corkscrew and poured each of them a glass. Rather than offer a toast, which seemed trite and he was later glad he didn’t do it again, he motioned to the right the dancing rays of the setting sun on the ocean. As the sun fell towards the horizon, it somehow seemed to both grow larger and less menacing or dangerous.

Matt sidled up to Barbara. “You can talk about classic films, or notable Broadway plays, even operas or Shakespeare plays…they all make a splash, but eventually their glory fades and settles into a sort of classic category……but the sunset….the sunset has been gazed upon since the first human walked the earth, and it will be until the last one gazes up for the last time. And each time, it will be just as beautiful, just as awe-inspiring.”

He laughed to himself, shook his head, and sipped his wine.

“I must really like you Barbara, because I jabber on like a 70 year old gossip when I’m around you.”

 

[Destiny]

As he gathered he basket and lead her along the way, when they reached the beach she paused and removed her shoes to walk across the sugar of the sand. When they finally reached the location he wanted and set up everything She watched him with an enigmatic air smiling as he spoke to her of classics, "Well at least you did not compare me to your beauteous sunset." She sparkled a smile up at him as she sipped the wine and closed her eyes enjoying the last of the dying light and the feel of he wine sliding along her lips.

Placing her glass beside here on he sand she leaned back resting her hands behind her and sighed softly," If only time could stop and we could stay in this moment." She laughed at her fanciful thoughts and then caressed the place beside her on the blanket," You can come closer Matt I promise I won't bite."

She waited for him to settle beside her and then leaned back once more to ask, "I am curious Matt, Why did you and your late wife decide to settle here in the Caribbean, Why not Monte Carlo... or the french Riviera?"

 

[RockYourWorld3976]

“Oh, that’s easy. We wanted a place more accessible to more people. A truck driver or a waitress or a school teacher could work their whole life and save their money, and that money wouldn’t buy one night at a hotel in Monte Carlo or Marsaiiles. And even if they could get there, they would be surrounded by incurably snobbish people. Here at Horizon’s Edge, you can be yourself and feel good doing so. “

Matt accepted her offer and moved closer. The breeze danced about them gently, adding a perfect atmospheric element. The setting, the sunset, the ocean breeze all added to that perfect setting, but more than all of that, Barbara was Matt’s focus, her presence not seeming completely real, but her beauty right in front of him, assuring him that was in fact very real.

What was it about her that so intrigued Matt? He had met beautiful women before of course. And he met successful women on a daily basis…in business, Matt didn’t differentiate people by groups – gender, race, etc. - , only by their competence, ability and integrity.

Matt felt the need at this particular moment to put his finger exactly on what so intrigued him about Barbara. That feeling was matched by something more than a feeling….an omen perhaps, or the thought that he was on the verge of a momentous event in his life. What was happening, and how much did it have to do with Barbara?

It was more than just romance, or anything personal. Yes, there was that part of it all, but there was so much more. Sitting there with her, so close, in this perfect environment, it seemed as good as it did uncertain. Barbara would’ve laughed if she could read his thoughts at this moment. A woman of her background, she had probably faced many such uncertain situations…..

That was it, there was the answer he sought. Matt, in all his business dealings, in all his travels, and during his many years of getting to know all kinds of people, had never met a government intelligence agent. Not that he was aware of, anyway. And, on top of that, she was dealing with something where she needed his help.

It both saddened and made Matt happy to come to this realization. Saddened because here was proof of how much of an outlier someone had to be in order to draw Matt’s interest…a CIA agent hunting a terrorist. Anyone less interesting didn’t seem to register on his radar. Yes, very sad.

But there was a definite bright side….she was sitting next to him, drinking wine, and watching the sunset with him. Maybe this was going to be simple and professional. Matt would help her do her job, she would catch the terrorist, and then be gone from his life. Or, there could be more than that. The thing is, Matt didn’t know which way it would go. For the first time in a very long time, Matt didn’t know what was going to happen five steps ahead. He was along for the ride, taking things as they came, just like the truck drivers and waitresses and school teachers he had been talking about.

Matt was not going to be a twig in the stream as this all took place – he was going to direct what he could. The rest would come about as it would. Looking to Barbara, he was ready to jump in with both feet and see what happened.

“It’s been a wonderful day, the best I’ve had in some time. Thank you for that.”

Moving closer, hoping she didn’t recoil, Matt kissed Barbara.