They Disappeared

59

Purgatory Point, the Bronx, New York City

Jeff called the number Cordelli had texted him.

No one spoke at the other end but the display window showed that his call had connected.

Good.

Jeff activated his cell phone’s speaker and set the phone on the floor on his side of the wall. Then with the utmost care to be quiet he slid the phone under the gap. It picked up the sound just as the man on the other side resumed making his statement.

“‘Greetings from God’s slave to the United Nations. You did not start this tragic war but if you are people with courage, determination and humanity, you will acknowledge our action today as the final call…’”

Jeff’s heart hammered against his chest with such force he feared the men would surely hear it. He worked on controlling his breathing while praying that Sarah and Cole were near.

God, please let them be alive.

Jeff drew back when the statement suddenly ended with a burst of activity.

“Let’s go! This is it! You know your jobs!”

From that point on, orders were shouted in a foreign language over the movements of people rushing, equipment cases being loaded and snapped shut, zippers being closed, computers shutting down, tables and chairs shoved.

Jeff grabbed his phone, then lay flat on the floor, pressing his face to the gap to see what was happening. His view was restricted to the boots of men hurrying, moving out. How many were there-twenty, two dozen? Then he heard the ring-clink of chains and held his breath.

Then he saw small white sneakers contrasted against the large military boots.

Those are Sarah’s shoes!

She was wearing them when they’d left the hotel to visit Times Square.

Jeff then saw a set of smaller khaki canvas sneakers.

Those belong to Cole!

His wife and son were right there, so close. Jeff’s stomach twisted. He wanted to bust through the wall but was helpless. There were too many opponents. He’d be overpowered, captured, killed. He drew his fingers into fists; his agony turned to rage.

Vehicle doors opened and closed, engines started, revved, and within seconds they were gone.