The Zodiac of P.R.A.

Chapter 34

Guest Star:
Julian Cheung - Douglas Chung aka Virgo
Andy Lau – Joe Cheung (The Head of Security and P.R.A.)
Roger – Darwin Wong
Anne Heung – Elisa Chu/Wong
Daniel Wu – Michael Wu
Ada Choi – Jessie Leung aka Cancer
Sonjia Kwok – Christina Chan

Joe made the call to insane asylum to take away Reina, who was classified as ‘nutty’ to Mia. Dave and Steve's bodies were taken back to the headquarters, there was a ice room where they left their bodies. Brad was the first to asked “What are we going to do about them?”

Mia turned to Joe “We have to burry them.”

He nodded in agreement “Just hiding this from the cops is a huge crime…but we have no choice. I’m not sure how we can pull this off since we have to sign in a person if they are going to a mortuary.”

Daniel smiled “My father bought over a huge piece of land that he later named ‘Wu Memorial Park’. We can burry them there. No one will question it.”

“Your father built a cemetery?” Mia asked with a shiver.

He nodded “It was actually saved for my family and each generation but I owe the P.R.A. my life.” Michael was grateful and didn’t mind going against his family rules to help them out.

“Great.” Joe nodded to Brad and Darren “Can you two help out Michael with the preparations?”

“Yes sir.” The two said simultaneously.

*************

The following morning was a short ceremony for Dave and Andrew. The P.R.A team stood in front of his grave “Once an agent, always an agent.” Brad sighed sadly “Too bad you were on the wrong team.”

Erin looked up at him with a smile “He understands, he wasn’t trying to hurt us, he only did what any of you guys would do…help your love one. Even if it meant being the bad guy.”

Mia sniffed back the tears “Reaina is very lucky.”

Michael stood in front of Dave’s headstone as he gave a short bow “I feel horrible for what happened to Julie…I can never get over her. It’s such a shame that you never knew my love for Julie could easily take over my family’s bond. I would give up my life to save hers….but…” he was choked up as tears began to fall from his eyes.

Erin was standing closest to him as she walked over and patted his arm “I’m sure she’ll understand.”

He turned to her with a saddened expression “Thank you.”

Joe stepped up to the two of them as he asked Michael “What are you plans?”

Michael shrugged “Travel the world…I’m not sure. But I know I want to take a break from everything here.”

“If you need anything, let me know.” Joe pulled out his business card “That’s my direct line.”

Michael wrinkled his brows with curiosity “This looks very familiar.”

“The design?” Erin asked while the others walked over to them.

Michael nodded “Yeah, I’ve seen it somewhere.”

“That’s impossible.” Joe shook his head “I had this especially made from a graphic designer that I knew personally.”

“Is his name Darin Wong?” Michael asked.

Joe widened his eyes “Yes, how did you know?”

“Of course I know, he is a self made millionaire about 3 years ago when he opened his own graphic design studio during the big movie business when they started using more animation and graphics. He is named the #4 richest man in Hong Kong.” Michael explained.

“So he was on the targeted list?” Brad asked “Have you talked to him lately?”

Michael shook his head “Not that I know of. For all we know Dave probably got to him already.”

Mia snapped her fingers as she wagged it “Darwin Wong…that sounds so familiar. I think I heard about him on the news. His wife had called into the police for the kidnapping of her husband…she was on the air the other night on the radio announcing that she would give anyone 1 million dollars to find her husband or return him.”

“Has he been returned?” Doug asked.

She shook her head “Not that I’ve heard.”

Joe smiled at the team “Looks like we’ve got work to do. Michael could I ask you to stay until we find Darwin Wong? You were one of Dave’s three contact, maybe something will occur to you.”

Michael nodded solemnly “I’d do anything to help.”

The group discussion was quickly interrupted when the caretaker rushed over to Michael with a frightened expression “Sir, there are some policeman looking for Mr. Joe Cheung.”

The team turned to Joe curiously “Why do they want to see you?” Brad wondered out loud.

About 5 casual dressed policeman including Ted walked up “Mr. Joe Cheung?” Ted asked as he was the head. Joe nodded “You are under arrest for the kidnapping of Darwin Wong on the date of September 21, 2003. You have the right to remain silent but whatever you say can be used against you in the court of law.” He let out a short sigh as he pulled out his handcuffs “Sorry, Sir.” The girls gasped in shock.

“He didn't do anything!” Mia cried but she knew they could not explain that Joe was kidnapped by a look alike and was trapped in the headquarters for days. It was absurd and it would blow their cover.

Joe shook his head at Mia “It’s okay.” He turned to Ted with a smile “You know who I am?”

Ted nodded as he handcuffed Joe “I promise, we will find out the truth.” He nodded to the rest before taking Joe into custody.

Joe stopped halfway as he turned to the group “Brad, you’re in charge.”

The team watched as he was taken away, Mia stomped her foot angrily “How could that be!! He didn’t do it.”

Darren comforted her with his hand on her shoulder “We all know that…but everything has to have proof. The police must have found some kind of proof to be able to arrest Joe.”

Jessie crossed her arms thoughtfully “Too bad Andrew is dead, we can probably get him to talk. And Reina…” she shook her head sadly.

“Reina!” Erin snapped her head up “She’s our last chance. Mia, you want to pay a little visit to our friend?”

Brad quickly interfered “I don’t think that’s a good idea. You don’t know what’s she’s capable of doing.” He was worried for her.

Mia shook her head “No, it’s okay. Erin and I can go alone. She might want to kill you, Brad and it will probably trigger something if she sees Darren. Maybe if it’s just the two of us, it won’t be too bad?” it was a long shot but it was their only hope at this time to help Joe.

Brad eventually nodded “Fine, you two be careful. The rest of you come with me to the station. We’ll meet again later tonight to give you an update on Joe’s arrest. Michael, think up of all the locations that Dave has asked you to go to. Maybe we’ll find Darwin Wong in one of those places.”

The team quickly separated as the two girls headed to the insane asylum. The minute Mia walked into the hospital, she grabbed onto Erin’s arm fearfully “Did you hear that?” she whispered while her head looked around at the screaming sound coming through the vent.

Erin laughed “You act like that and they’ll admit you into this place in a second.” She pulled Mia’s arm off of her own “And you’re cutting off the circulation in my arm!” she wrung out her arm painfully.

Mia was even more scared when a wicked laugh escaped through the vent as she hid behind Erin lowering her head while she gripped onto her friend’s shoulder “What the hell was that?!”

Erin shook her head as she allowed Mia to follow her closely, they walked up to the receptionist who looked at Mia strangely “Are you admitting a patient?” the girl asked Erin.

Mia dropped her jaw as she looked offended “You’re more psycho than I’ll ever be!” Mia retorted as she stepped up in front of Erin towering over the girl’s desk.

“Calm down…” Erin hushed Mia as she pulled her behind “No, as surprising as it may seem, she is as sane as any normal person. We’re here to visit Reina Ng.”

The girl nodded “Oh, yes…she was admitted yesterday. Here, put on this tag so the workers won’t confuse you for a patient.” She handed one to Erin.

Erin looked at it strangely “There’s only one?”

The girl smiled “It’s for your friend. You are obviously normal.”

Mia scowled at the girl while Erin laughed and placed the tag on Mia still trying to stifle the giggle “I’m surprised all the workers haven’t gone crazy after working in this place. Maybe your turn is up…” she said viciously at the receptionist.

Erin smiled apologetically “She’s just kidding. Room 12 right?” The girl nodded while Erin pushed at Mia “Come on.” The girls walked past the solitaire rooms where the more dangerous patients were placed. Only one small circular window was the patient’s only contact to the outside world.

Erin came upon the sixth door to her right as she turned to Mia “There she is.” She peeked through the small window.

Reina was sitting in the corner of the room talking to herself and laughing at strange occasions. When their eyes met, she titled her head from side to side while struggling to get up since her straight jacket tied her arms up. She walked over to the window and looked at Mia then over to Erin. Mia smiled warmly as she nodded at the girl, Reina stared at her motionless and suddenly she pushed her face onto the window “You!! I know you!!”

Mia clutched her heart with a short jump backwards “Oh my God!” she took in a deep breath “She’s even scarier in this room.”

Erin looked around “Is anyone looking?”

“There’s no one here!” Mia widened her eyes “Are you okay Erin? Maybe you’re in here too long.” She placed a hand over Erin’s forehead.

Erin smiled “Good.” She pulled out her tool packet with a few needles and picks as she began working her specialty. Opening doors with locks. Within minutes she picked the door open as the girls entered the room cautiously.

Reina began backing up against the corner wall as she pushed herself into the cushioned walls “AH!!!” she began screaming at the top of her lungs “Don’t hurt me….AHHH!!! Help!! Help!!”

Mia turned to Erin who nodded at her. She rushed to Reina and covered her mouth “Shhh…we’re not going to hurt you Reina. You’re not going to remember me…but I’m Mia…we’re friends.” Her eyes were earnest. Suddenly she yanked her hand away “Ew!! She licked my hand!!” Mia exclaimed to Erin while Reina laughed deliriously with her saliva dripping at the corner of her lips. Mia wiped her hands on Reina’s jacket with disgust.

Erin shook her head as she looked at Reina with a smile “Reina.” The girl turned to her with her head tilted “Do you remember Dave? Your brother?” Reina looked away blankly but she nodded like a zombie “Do you remember when he kidnapped Darwin Wong?” Again Reina nodded “Where is he?” her voice was soft as can be trying not to provoke the girl.

Reina began cackling like an evil witch and it seemed she couldn’t stop with the case of the giggles. Mia turned to Erin “She knows.”

Abruptly, Reina stopped laughing as she turned slowly to the girls “Green sky…blue ground…don’t talk! Shut up!!” she cried randomly startling the girls.

“Where is there green sky and blue ground?” Mia asked Reina.

Reina began giggling hysterically again “Ask the leprechaun…” she laughed even louder “shut up or I’ll kill you!!” she cried suddenly growing more serious “No…” she began shaking her head “No…you can’t die…Gor…Gor…” her eyes welled up with tears “he said I have to keep him alive…” A slowly conniving grin appeared on Reina’s lips “but he might as well be dead.” She began laughing again.

Erin and Mia looked at each other strangely “What does that suppose to mean?” Erin asked “Come on, she’s not going to tell us anymore.” Mia turned to find Reina facing the corner wall, her face smothered into the cushion. The girls walked out of their completely confused.

“Green sky and blue ground?” Mia shook her head “She is crazy.”

“It does mean something.” Erin nodded confidently. They reached the car as the two got in “We might as well meet up with the rest at headquarters.” Mia nodded in agreement as the girls took off.

Chapter 35

Guest Star:
Julian Cheung - Douglas Chung aka Virgo
Andy Lau – Joe Cheung (The Head of Security and P.R.A.)
Roger – Darwin Wong
Anne Heung – Elisa Chu/Wong
Daniel Wu – Michael Wu
Ada Choi – Jessie Leung aka Cancer
Sonjia Kwok – Christina Chan

Later that night, the group met back at the headquarters. Mia was anxious to know Joe’s condition as she asked before sitting down “So, was it a false arrest?”

Brad let out a sigh as he sat at the head of the table “I’m afraid not…apparently someone saw Darwin Wong arguing with a man that looked like Joe…we all know it’s Dave. But at the same time we can’t let our secret out. Joe advised me specifically that we cannot tell anyone even if it means that he’ll go to jail.”

“That’s not fair!” Mia cried in disbelief “He’s so innocent…we have to get him out.”

Darren nodded as he turned to the girls “Did kookoo spill any beans?”

Mia sighed with frustration “Don’t talk about that…that girl has lost it totally. What with her mumbling about green sky and blue ground. I mean, what in the world does that suppose to mean?”

“Is that what she said?” Brad asked Erin, who nodded.

Mia narrowed her eyes at him “What? You don’t believe me? You have to hear it from your ‘GIRLFRIEND’?” she teased.

Brad laughed “If that’s what you think…yes, I’d rather Erin tell me.” His smile faded as he grew more solemn “What else did she say?”

Erin shook her head “Too many things. Something about killing Darwin…then something about her Gor not letting her kill him.” She let out a sigh “Reina wasn’t much help.”

“Well we better think fast because Joe’s court date is in 3 days due to the urgent request of Mrs. Wong.” Doug reminded them.

“Michael, did you write out that list yet?” Erin asked.

He nodded as he slid one to each person “I made copies. Those are all the locations that Dave has met me at.”

The group skimmed through the locations “These places are not that special…bars… office…” Erin sighed with defeat.

“I’m sorry I can’t help.” Michael felt useless.

Darren looked up when he thought of something “He’s met you at your house? When?”

Michael frowned “That night before you guys came by to take the proofs.”

Erin shook her head “That’s the night I heard you talking to Reina?”

Michael nodded “Yeah, Dave was quiet…maybe he knew you were there.”

“I called him that night.” Erin recalled.

Michael smiled “I know, I was standing there when he was talking to you. I let out a cough on purpose, did you hear it?”

Erin looked away thoughtfully as she searched her mind “Yes…I did…but I figured it was his wife or something. Then I realized he wasn’t married. But it never occurred to me to be suspicious of Joe.”

Brad nodded with a smile “Now we’re getting somewhere. Let’s split up and go to the locations and search for some clues. Doug and Jessie, you two take the first three locations, Darren and Mia you two take the next four. Erin, Michael and I will go to the Wu mansion.” He nodded as everyone began to get up “Be careful guys.” He warned before they split up.

Erin searched the library while Brad looked in Michael’s room. Michael looked on the entire second floor. After an hour of no clues, the three met at the living room “Nothing.” Erin shook her head sadly.

“I don’t know why, my hunch is telling me that Darwin is here.” Brad couldn’t shake the suspicious feeling from his stomach.

“You’re not the only one.” Michael agreed “It would be the perfect framing. Killing two birds with one stone. He always saw me as a thorn in his eye…as well as Joe.”

Suddenly the doorbell rang, Erin turned to Michael “Who could that be? Your parents?”

He shook his head “They live in America now.”

“I’ll open it.” Erin suggested.

Brad reached for her hand “I’ll do it.” She understood as she backed away with a nod. He carefully turned the knob and yanked the door open startling Christina, he let out a sigh “It’s just you.”

“What are you doing here?!” she exclaimed in shock. She walked in without being invited and quickly pointed to Michael and Erin “YOU!! What is she still doing here?”

Michael rolled his eyes “What do you want Christina? I thought I was being very clear that last time.”

She snickered “Must I remind you that this marriage is taking place in one week? Your parents will return and mine will be coming back from their vacation in Ireland. They will expect us to be together.”

“Look, I don’t want to marry you.” Michael said firmly.

Christina laughed “Like I want to marry YOU.” She spat with disgust “But it’s our family decision, not ours. I expect you to be loyal to me if we are to get married…but if I chose to go out with my friends, you cannot stop me.” She said stubbornly.

“So if you want to see your current boyfriend, it should be okay too?” Michael asked wisely.

“How…how did you know?” Christina stumbled with her words.

Michael walked over to her with a crooked smile “There’s nothing you can hide from me. Now if you don’t mind, I am talking to my friends. I will tell my parents that this marriage will not take place. You can return to your boyfriend.”

“But…” she shook her head fearfully.

Erin pulled Michael aside “But what? You’re already rich, why do you need Michael…if you’re scared of your parents, maybe you should grow up and learn to deal with your own problems.”

“This is none of your business, tramp!” Christina raised her hand to slap Erin but she was quicker as she blocked her arm and pushed it aside.

“I am not a maid you can just slap!” Erin said harshly “You heard Michael, get out.”

Christina looked embarrassed as she scurried towards the door, which Brad was gladly holding open. He slammed it shut with a laugh.

“That was great!” he complimented Erin as he rushed over to her and hugged her.

She laughed “You’re excited because of that?”

Michael turned to the windows with a sad expression “Why don’t we have a choice?”

Erin broke away from Brad as she walked over to Michael “You need to move on, Michael. Dwelling on the past can only cause you more pain.” She advised.

He nodded “I know.” He turned to the two with a smile “It’s nice to see two people in love as much as you two.” His comment made Erin turn away shyly while Brad smiled gratefully. “Why don’t you two stay overnight here?”

Brad nodded in agreement “I was just going to suggest it myself.”

The following morning Erin was the first to wake in her guest room, the same one that Michael put her in during her short stay. She walked over to Brad’s room and found him sound asleep. She smiled and gently closed the door as she walked downstairs to get herself a glass of water. The kitchen was towards the back and she noticed the screen door was open. She walked out and found Michael walking in the green meadows. She wished there was something she can do to make him feel better.

He sensed her steps as he smiled to himself “It’s a beautiful morning huh?” Michael asked.

Erin nodded as she stepped up next to him “Yes.” She hesitated to ask him “Michael…”

“What is it?” he turned to her questioningly.

“I don’t know…I wish I could take your pain away…but…” her words broke away slowly.

He smiled “My pain will never go away. But it will slowly dissolve. I never had the chance to thank you for everything. You’ve helped me with this pain more than you’ll ever know.”

Erin nodded “I’m glad I did. You deserve to be happy, Michael.” Her brows suddenly knit together as she spotted a person not too far from them “Who is that?”

Michael turned following her finger “Oh…that’s Chung Bak, he’s the caretaker of the land back here. He’s been working with our family since…God, I don’t remember when. Even when I fired him, he still came back to fix the weeds and the flowers against the home for free eventhough he has other jobs.”

“What other jobs?” Erin asked with extra curiosity.

“Same thing, but he does it for other rich families.” Michael shrugged.

Erin furrowed her brows “He looks so short.” She said slowly.

“Yeah, he was born that way. They use to tease him growing up calling him leprechaun.” Michael shook his head sadly “Kids can be so cruel…” he noticed Erin’s face turning pale “What’s wrong?”

“Ask the leprechaun…” Erin muttered as she paced away, her eyes facing the sky “Green sky…blue ground…she really meant blue sky, green ground!” she clapped her hands “I know where Darwin Wong is!”

“Where?” Michael asked in shock.

Suddenly Brad came rushing over with the rest of the team behind them, Mia looked at Erin with a grin “I know where Darwin Wong is.”

Erin smiled “You and me both.”

“Where?” Brad asked curiously “You’re keeping me in suspense.”

Erin turned to Mia “Tell me…how did you know?”

She laughed “Thanks to Darren here.” She leaned over and took her face in her hands and kissed him roughly on the lips “He woke up early to water the flowers in the backyard and I asked where his gardener was. Darren told me that he was working at the Wu’s family today. Out of curiosity I asked what the man’s name was. He told me Cheung Bak but he was known as…”

“Leprechaun.” Erin finished.

Mia nodded with a laugh while the rest looked at them curiously “That’s why I ran over here…then on the way, I thought about green sky, blue ground. If you flip the colors, it would be this huge backyard.” She brought out her hands and took a bow while Erin clapped her hands “Thank you, thank you very much.”

“My thought exactly.” She turned to the rest to quickly explain the clues that Reina dropped “Reina said he might as well be dead…which means he’s probably buried.”

“But where?” Darren wondered “Did she say anything else about the location?”

Mia shook her head but suddenly her eyes lit up “Wait…she said to ask the leprechaun.” She pointed to Cheung Bak. Doug was quicker as he sprinted to the man and brought him over to the group.

“Cheung Bak, do you know where Darwin Wong is buried?” Michael asked.

Erin shook her head at him “He wouldn’t know.” The old man looked frightened after hearing the question “Can you answer me something, Cheung Bak?” the man nodded with his small hands wringing at his waist “Where do you water the most during your working day at the Wu’s?”

The man turned in circles as if thinking where he watered the most “There is this apple tree that was grown by my own hands. I always give it extra water to help it grow faster.”

Brad turned to Erin “Why did you ask that?”

Darren smiled “Easy, Dave didn’t want to kill Darwin yet, so he had to somehow keep the man alive. If he is buried alive, he cannot be fed any food…but if you give him water, it’ll pull his life span for a few more weeks.”

“Why didn’t I think of it!” Brad nodded “That’s brilliant…” he shook his head in awe “He sure is a mastermind. Darwin being buried in the Wu estate would mean Michael will not be off the hook too easily.”

The team nodded while Mia was more anxious “Why are we still talking, let’s save the poor guy!” she rushed off only to be stopped by Michael.

“The apple tree is over here, Mia.” He pointed to the opposite direction. The group laughed while Mia turned around red faced. They rushed over to the tree and found some part of the ground that seemed to be pulled up. The dirt covered the grass so much that it looked odd against he more perfect meadow.

“It’s a straw.” Brad discovered as he and Erin knelt down to the ground, they found a one inch tube that was poking out of the ground, hiding in the mist of all the grass “Where are the shovels?”

Cheung Bak nodded “I’ll get them.” He came back minutes later with Doug carrying two. The men began digging and within 15 minutes, they finally hit a wooden box. Brad and Darren pulled open the lid and surely, they found Darwin blindfolded while the tube was taped to his mouth.

They quickly pulled him out and took him to the hospital where he got immediate treatment. He had suffered from malnutrition as well as the flu. The team stood outside waiting for the doctor to come out.

Chapter 36

The doctor finally walked out to the waiting room “Is he okay?” Brad got up.

The elder man in the glasses nodded “He’s very weak. I’m afraid you might not be able to question him. His wife is in there with him and she has requested that no one enter the room.”

Mia frowned “How ungrateful! We saved his life for goodness sakes.”

Erin smiled “If you were in her shoes and Darren was kidnapped and suddenly found, would you allow a bunch of strangers to come in and visit him?”

She opened her mouth to answer but suddenly thought about it “Well, if you say it that way.” She turned to Brad “Isn’t Joe free to leave yet?”

Darren shook his head as did Brad “Until we have Mr. Wong personally point out that he was indeed not kidnapped by Joe but by Dave, Joe is still in danger.”

Mia threw her hands up in frustration “So what now? Give up? We have to get Joe out of there. I don’t care.” She crossed her arms stubbornly “I’m gonna go in there if it’s the last thing I do.”

“Mia…” Erin said warningly “What are you going to do?”

She shrugged carelessly “Nothing. I’m just thinking…” her eyes moved back and forth slyly as she suddenly got up “I’m going to the bathroom.” She announced.

“Let me go with you.” Erin was quick to get up.

“You don’t trust me?” Mia said in shock.

“No.” Erin replied flatly making Mia drop her jaw “Close your mouth before a fly gets inside. Come on.” She pushed at the girl.

Mia grumpily agreed but instead of heading to the bathroom, she headed to the volunteer room, Erin looked at her strangely but Mia wasn’t about to give up “You want Joe out of there don’t you? Come on.” She pulled at Erin’s hand and took her inside to borrow two candy striper uniforms. The girls walked out looking like they work there. They weren’t sure what room Darwin Wong was in so they peeked in every room in the private wing of the hospital.

The last door they tried was the correct one. Elisa looked up blankly “What are you girls doing here? The other nurse just gave my husband a shot.”

Erin smiled warmly “Sorry, we must have gotten the wrong room.” She glanced over at Darwin who was pale as can be and noticed him stirring awake “He’s waking up.” she pointed.

Elisa reached over from her seat as she took his hand in hers “Darwin…you’re awake.” She brushed the hair that fell from his eyes.

Mia was quick as can be as she reached for a glass of water “Here you go Mr. Wong.”

Darwin looked up with a smile “Thank you.”

Elisa felt a sudden wave of emotion wash over her as she cried “I almost lost you.”

The young man smiled “But you didn’t…”

“Well it’s a good thing we caught that man that did this to you.” Elisa tried to change the subject “Don’t worry sweetie, Joe Cheung will be locked up for good, we have the best lawyers in the entire country on our side.”

Darwin wrinkled his brows “Joe Cheung? Who is he?”

“You don’t remember?” Elisa asked in shock “Oh dear God…you have amnesia.”

“No he doesn’t.” Mia confirmed.

The girl looked up “How do you explain his memory loss? He doesn’t even know the man that kidnapped him? Darwin’s driver saw him arguing with Joe Cheung.”

Erin stepped closer to Darwin as she sat down beside his bed “Mr. Darwin Wong, does the name Dave Wong sound familiar?”

Darwin’s face grew even whiter as he nodded “How do you know him? Who are you two? Something tells me you are not simple volunteers.”

Mia smiled “At least someone’s quicker.” Her eye teased Anne.

“Our identities are not important but what’s important is that you go to the police station once you’re feeling better. Joe Cheung is innocent and he desperately needs your help.” Erin begged.

Elisa shook her head “He’s in no condition to do such a thing.”

Darwin turned over and tapped his wife on the hand “It’s okay. I owe my life to these people.” He turned to Mia and Erin who were beaming “Am I right?”

Mia smiled “You sure do!”

Erin shook her head at her friend “Boy, you sure don’t know what humble means.”

******************

Darwin was pulled out of his room by a wheelchair and were greeted by the rest of the team. They looked at Mia and Erin strangely “You girls….” Brad shook his head.

The pale guy only smiled “It’s alright. They did the right thing. I want to thank all of you for saving my life.”

Brad smiled “Your welcome, Mr. Wong. Before we go to the station, I want to ask you something.” The young guy nodded for him to continue “Are you related to Dave Wong?”

Darwin nodded with a grim smile “You can say that. My uncle is his adopted father. He took on the Wong’s surname as his own when he was bought from a poor family.”

Mia gasped “So it’s the same Wong!!” she shook her head “I think you just put together the last piece of the puzzle.”

At the police station, Ted personally questioned Darwin “So you’re saying that it was Dave Wong that kidnapped you, not Joe Cheung? How did it happen? And why were you two arguing?”

Darwin sighed “It’s such a shame. We were supposed cousins, but he had not helped the Wong family one bit. When my uncle died, he left a fortune for all his kids including Dave, eventhough he didn’t have the Wong blood flowing in his veins. The true siblings went into a long rivalry to take back the money from Dave claiming it wasn’t his to begin with. For months a horrible case went on and it was not in Dave’s favor. But I was present when my uncle signed the will and specifically said he wanted all his children to have the money. Including Dave because growing up, he loved Dave like his own son eventhough he had two others.”

“So he looked for you to help him win the case?” Ted asked.

He nodded “Yes…he did. It worked. He won the money and the judged ruled that he would gain 10% of the other kids fortune for the pain and suffering they caused Dave. He was grateful towards me in the end, I guess that’s why he spared my life.”

“Then why would he kidnap you to begin with?” Ted continued.

“Because I know about the drug dealing. We got in an argument outside my office building about it. He was scared that someone would hear so he asked if we can go somewhere else to talk. He took me to a secluded home that I recognized belonged to Michael Wu. I only guessed that he had something to do with the drugs also..so I threatened to point them both out. That was a wrong move on my part because Dave knocked me unconscious and from the night on, I was buried underground.”

Ted sighed “I’m sorry you had to go through that. Thank you for your cooperation, Mr. Wong. Joe Cheung will be released from your signature here, indicating that everything you said is true and legal.” He handed over the clipboard and Darwin quickly signed it.

“Who is Mr. Joe Cheung?” Darwin asked with curiosity.

Ted smiled “He is the man that controls the group in which saved your life.”

“Then I must thank him.” Darwin smiled.

Ted nodded “You may leave now, I’m going to get Mr. Cheung out of jail.” The minute the door opened, the entire team rushed to Ted “Wooh, it’s like a herd out here.” He joked.

Erin looked at the two earnestly “Is it done?”

Ted smiled “Mr. Joe Cheung is free to go.” The guys let out a sigh while the girls squealed happily at the news. “Now if you’ll excuse me…” he walked down the hall.

Elisa walked over to her husband’s wheelchair with a content smile “You did a good thing.”

He nodded “I’m just lucky to be alive.” He looked up and noticed how happy the group was and behind his head he wondered who exactly were they? Surely they couldn’t all be friends. He recognized Darren earlier and wondered what a wealthy guy like him were doing with an average group like that.

Joe was walked out by Ted and his cuffs were quickly unlocked, his beard was growing out and his hair was disheveled. But his smile was wide when he saw his team standing there waiting for him. He walked over proudly as he hugged each and every one them “Thank you.” He finished with Erin.

She smiled as she turned down at Darwin “Mr. Wong, this is General Joe Cheung, head of security.” She introduced.

Darwin’s eyes widened “Head of Security?” he pushed himself off the wheelchair with Elisa’s help “Well, I’m glad this mess was cleared up. I wouldn’t know what to do if I put General Cheung in jail.”

Joe smiled “Please call me Joe. Not a lot of people know me. But I was very good friends with your Uncle. Unfortunate loss, I know.” He said sadly “I’m just glad my team did what they could.” He smiled proudly at the group behind him.

Darwin shook his hand as firm as he could “They did an amazing job. Something tells me, they are not CID’s or FIB’s?” his smile told Joe that he would not tell anyone.

“I’m afraid you’ve mistaken, Mr. Wong. This group of people are…my helpers.” Joe explained with a smile that told Darwin otherwise.

Brad caught on quick as he laughed “I’m his driver.”

Darren smiled with a nod “I’m just a friend.”

Mia looked around with a grin “My turn?” she laughed to herself “I’m his…personal maid.” She said seductively.

Erin shook her head with a laugh “I’m his…accountant.” Mia turned to her with a strange look and Erin shrugged her shoulders “I couldn’t think of anything else.” She whispered.

Doug nodded “I’m his butler.”

“Cook.” Jessie nodded.

Darwin laughed “I see. Well, thank you all…you should be awarded for the great work.”

Brad put up his hand “No, it’s what we should do. We’re not in it for the money.”

“Speak for yourself!” Mia cried “I would like my reward please.” She smiled sweetly at Darwin and Elisa with her hand held out.

Erin slapped it away “You already have one…” she pointed her thumb to Darren and the group laughed while Mia blushed.

“We’re not married or anything.” She retorted at the group.

“I think that’s a big hint!” Brad nudged Darren who only smiled at his girlfriend.

Mia was embarrassed as can be as she mumbled something incoherent and rushed out of the station “You’re not going to stand there are you?” Erin asked Darren with her arms crossed.

He smiled “Just giving her a head start.” He waved to them as he came running after Mia. It didn’t take long for him to catch her as he blocked her way “Where do you think you’re going?”

Mia smiled while she turned to the side “Home.”

“My home or our home?” Darren laughed when she wrinkled her nose at him.

“WE don’t have a home.” Mia said teasingly.

He smiled “We do now.” He reached in his pocket and gave her a key. She was expecting a ring so when she felt what it was, she instantly turned to him “Just a key?”

He laughed “What else do you want? A key chain?”

Mia didn’t want to sound desperate by asking for her ring but she didn’t think he bought it yet “No…well…if it’s round…” she hinted with a sweet smile.

“I’ve got one with a blue crystal teddy bear…will you take that?” Darren smiled as he reached in his pocket.

Mia put out her hand with her eyes rolled away “I guess.” She said with much disappointment. She expected a heavy object instead she felt a ring, she spun her head over and an instant smiled covered her face “Darren??”

He smiled as he slowly kneeled down “Mia, will you make me the happiest man alive?”

She opened her mouth to say yes when suddenly a shadow flew by and the ring on her palm was taken away “Oh my God!” she cried in shock while Darren got up and prepared to chase after the thief. Mia stopped him “I’ll get him.” She growled and sprinted after the guy at lightning speed. The guy was chased for blocks until he reached an alley with a dead end. Only the fence that blocked his way “Run sucker…why aren’t you running?” Mia tempted him.

He turned to the fence and began climbing up like a monkey “You crazy bitch!” he yelled at her from the top when she raced after him on the fence.

Mia didn’t think twice about her height problem when the guy climbed to a ladder that took you up to the rooftop of an apartment building. She followed and chase him until they were on the roof “Give me back my ring.” She cried stepping closer to the thief.

“Are you crazy?!” he yelled while backing against to the ledge.

When the streets were fully noticeable, Mia continued to push him to the edge “Give it back.”

He turned his back and looked over the ledge, there was a large trash can not too far, he could make it if he tried “Chase me now!” He said before leaping over the 10 story building. Mia didn’t think as she jumped after him completely ignoring her fear. She only wanted her ring back. The two landed roughly in the trash bin as she wrestled him easily and got her ring back. She gave him a few punches in the stomach “And don’t you ever steal anything from me again!” She grabbed his face but it was a bit wobbly as he was feeling dizzy. Mia used her fingers to pop open his eyes “Look at my face…remember it.” She warned before hopping out of the bin.

Mia put on the ring and smiled at it’s sparking shiny nature. Darren soon chased her in time as he smiled “Mia…you’re alright.” He was about to hug her but quickly backed away “Oh crap…what did you fall into?”

Mia wrinkled her nose as she smelled it too “That trash can.” She pointed behind her.

“From where?” Darren widened his eyes.

“Up there.” Mia nodded to the rooftop.

He was in shock as he stuttered “Up…up that…?” she nodded “That ten story building??”

Suddenly it occurred to her as she began to nod “Yeah…I jumped from that building! Oh my God, I’m not afraid of heights anymore!!” she exclaimed happily while reaching out to hug Darren.

He quickly pushed her away “Oh dear God…take a shower!!”

Mia laughed while she asked “Come on, you know you love me no matter what I smell like.” Her arms were outstretched while Darren began backing away. She soon was chasing him down the street ready to hug him some more.

Chapter 37

Joe took the hint as he turned to the two “So…when is it your turn?”

Erin smiled “Ask the guy, he’s the one in charge of proposing.”

Jessie leaned into the table “It’s the 20th century, you should ask him yourself.” She winked at Erin teasingly.

Dennis laughed “I always imagined Erin being the one who’s not shy. What happened to the independent girl I trained years ago?”

“I guess deep down, I’m just an old fashioned girl.” Erin smiled hinting to Brad.

Brad shook his head “Nah…we’re not ready yet.” He turned to Erin with a smile “You don’t mind do you?”

She shook her head while her smile faded away “Of course not.” She turned back to the front where Mia was now belting out a song completely out of pitch. Her smile returned but her eyes showed disappointment. She was ready but apparently Brad wasn’t yet she wasn’t about to announce it to the entire table.

Erin was in a complete daze as she was startled back to reality with Mia yanking at her hand “Come on, come out and dance. No one will go unless people start dancing.” She begged.

Brad smiled “Your wish is our command, Mia.” He grabbed Erin’s hand and led her out to the dance floor, which was made out of sand and a carved heart was decorated with red lit candles. He could see that Mia wasn’t giving anyone any special treatment as she slowly grabbed all the couples out to the floor. Joe was alone, but she made sure she found him a partner at the next table. Brad smiled as the two began swaying to the music. Erin didn’t notice Brad was staring intently at her “What’s wrong?” he asked after a while.

Erin looked up with wide eyes “Nothing.” She said a little too quickly.

“You want to get married?” he asked with a surprise tone.

She tilted her head “No…of course not.” She played it off “I think I’m just a little buzz from the alcohol…and the dancing is making me dizzier.” She made her excuse sound nonchalant.

Brad stopped as he took her hands “Let’s take a walk then.” She smiled with a short nod. The two walked along the beach until the reception area was small and the band’s music was soft enough to hear the ocean waves crashing. The sun was setting as Brad stopped and pulled Erin down onto the sand next to him.

The two sat back to back, their heads leaning on the opposite shoulder “This is nice.” Erin sighed dreamily.

“Yeah.” She felt him nod his head “It makes a difference when you have money.” Brad turned his head to the side “I’m planning to retire from the P.R.A.”

Erin quickly sat up as she turned to him with a shocked expression “Why?” she wasn’t ready to quit.

He laughed “How do you expect me to save money if I’m only working part time at the accounting firm. The P.R.A. doesn’t pay us.”

She shook her head guiltily “I didn’t mean to pressure you, if you’re not ready…I can wait. Don’t quit, I think they need you too much.”

Brad smiled as the two faced the beach, he wrapped an arm around her shoulder as she leaned on him comfortably “Okay…I won’t quit.” She nodded with a smile “But you have to promise me one thing.”

“Anything.” She muttered with her eyes closed.

“Move in with me.” He whispered into her hair.

Erin smiled “Sure.”

“Cook and clean and wake me up in the morning….and be my wife.” He ended it with a smile.

Erin opened her eyes as she sat up “What…what did you just say?”

He shrugged as he got up slowly “Nothing…” he said slyly while helping her up.

When their hands met, she felt the ring between their palms. She looked down at their entwined hands with a smile “You sneaky little….” Her grin grew wider as he flipped her hand over and placed the diamond ring on her fourth finger “I didn’t say yes.” She teased.

Brad raised his brows “Yes you did. When I asked you for a favor, you said anything.”

“So this is just a favor?” Erin widened her eyes.

He nodded “Sure, once it’s done, I’ll owe you one.” He teased.

She turned away with her arms crossed “Well, I take it back then.”

Brad smiled as he began kneeling down “In that case…I’ll do it the right way.” She turned and was surprised to see him kneeling on one knee “Erin…” he began as he took her hand in his own “You know I’m a dumb when it comes to woman’s feelings…and I’m even more naïve when it comes to the woman I love. But I promise I will be more aware of your feelings and I promise to be by your side through thick and thin. No matter what happens on missions or our daily lives. If there is no Erin, there will no longer be a Brad.”

She covered her mouth to keep her sobs from escaping. Her tears came rolling down, hitting their clasped hands “Brad…” she shook her head with a smile.

He stood up with a smile “I take it that’s a yes?”

Erin nodded, incapable to muttering anything since her throat was tied up in knots. Brad hugged her happily and suddenly picked her up and spun her in circles making her laugh giddily. He finally let her down as the two were all smiles, he leaned down to her face and kissed her fully on the lips. She naturally pulled her arms over his neck as they embraced in the longest kiss since the day they were an item.

The End

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