K.E. Mullins's Blog, page 5
November 10, 2014
Excerpt from "In the Company of Strangers"
The following is a rough draft from Chapter one: "In the Company of Strangers". Please check it out and provide your comments. I do expect to release this novel by December. This is the sequel.
Chapter 1
Bodies littered the lawn like fall leaves. Blood pooled from the last man’s head near the steps. His right hand still clutched the AK7 automatic. Another man nearby gurgled as blood spurted out his jugular. He clenched on the grass. Sirens raced in the distance. It looked as if; every cop in D.C. was at the scene. Local cops blocked the surrounding streets. Angry residents fumed while they waited for the okay. An hour past and they continued to wait.
“Captain, how many perpetrators do we have?”
“There are at least twenty, maybe more. My group counted nine down in the front lawn.”
“How many are inside?” the SWAT commander asked.
“We don’t know.”
“Okay. We’re sending in Titan first.”
“You mean the robot,” the captain said.
Five SWOT team members were posted in the front lawn. The leader motioned two guys to the rear. They watched as the robot got closer to the door.
Elle watched the robot get closer to the front door. She motioned for the guys to take cover. They made their way to the basement. The robot had now reached the porch and headed toward the window.
Elle pulled the spring and rolled the grenade toward the window. She bolted for the stairs which led to the basement. The robot’s camera turned for the window.
The grenade stopped rolling near the baseboard. A fireball disintegrated the front porch. Titanium’s metal flew like shrapnel. Pieces landed in the bodies already on the ground. Plywood, glass, and nails flew toward the officers. They ducked for cover. Smoke hung in the air for what seemed like forever. Elle and her men ran through the tunnel.
The SWOT team commander stood to his feet. The three men behind him were injured. He radioed for backup. More men were at this side in seconds.
“I need you to surround the perimeter,” he said.
“Sir. How do we know its not another trap,” the private asked.
“We don’t. But, no one could have withstood that blast and still be unscathed,” he said.
“You’re right sir.”
They ran toward the house. The captain watched as they proceeded. The leader motioned for each group to take a section.
“Commander this is control.”
“Commander Thorpe here.”
“Commander what’s the 411 over?”
“Send in the emergency crew. I have three injured. Over.”
“Aye, aye sir.”
᷉
Three hours later. All six flat screens T.V.s above the bar were on. People lined the bar with drinks in hand. Others were gathered in booths while many stood up. Every station covered the same thing. Most channels were turned to CNN, but a few were on the local affiliates. There was a delay between broadcasts.
The Illinois senator was slightly below the points needed to become the first African-American President of the United States. The crowd roared as the states continue to report their poll tallies.
Gabrielle and Rita watched intensely, they both crossed their fingers.
“Girl he’s got to get this. Do you know what this would do for us?” Rita asked.
“I know, girl. This would be so monumental. I can’t believe he’s come this far. I’m so nervous.”
“Me too,” Rita said.
“Oh my God. Oh…, Oh, my God. He won!” The lady screamed a few chairs down.
The bartender turned up the volume on all the TVs. It was so silent; you could hear an ant crossing the floor. Charles Gibson took the screen.
“It’s done. Barack Hussein Obama has received the necessary votes to become the 44th President of the Unites States of America.”
The crowd screamed in unison. Champagne bottles popped. The servers begin pouring champagne into the gathered glasses. Patrons stepped outside and called family, friends, and significant others to celebrate. The D.J. played, “We’re moving on up” from “The Jefferson’s.” People took the floor and danced with spirits in hand. It reminded me of a New Year’s Eve celebration, but better.
“Gabe, I’m going to step outside and call my son. I’ll be right back.”
“Go ahead. I’ll be right here.”
Her cell vibrated on her hip.
Ade was calling.
“Hey babe.”
“Hello sexy. Did you hear the news?” He asked.
“Of course. I’m out with Rita at the sports bar.”
“I can tell.”
“Where are you now?”
“I’m out with my boys doing the same. You know the White House won’t be the same.”
“Why not, because it’s got a brother now?”
“Right, right. This is going to be a press dream for months to come. Mark my words. We’ll find out more about the life of a President than ever before.”
“You’re probably right. So…what time can I expect you?”
“Mmm…how about one. Is that past your bedtime?” He asked.
“Of course not, that’s mid-day.”
We both laughed.
“I’ll see you then,” he said.
᷉
Anita placed her pen down on the desk. She rested her head on it also. Tears rolled down her face. I can’t believe she got away. This makes no sense. How could they be surrounded and still manage to escape? That’s impossible.
She lifted her head up, stood up, and turned toward the chalk board behind her. A sketch of Gabe’s house detailing each room glared back at her. She took a pointer and looked at each room closer.
No hidden compartments rested on the sketch, but there is a lot of space here unaccounted for.
Anita turned around and headed for the desk. She picked up her phone and began dialing the special operations department. The phone rang three times before he answered.
“Commander Thorpe speaking.”
“Hello Commander Thorpe. This is special agent. Anita Johnson. Can I have a moment of your time?”
“Make it quick. We’re still wrapping things up at the scene.”
“I know. I won’t take too much of your time. Sir, do you know who created the sketch of the perpetrators home?”
“Let me think. If I remember correctly Sergeant Howell created it and did the research. Why do you ask?”
“Well…I’m finding a huge space unaccounted for on one sketch as compared to the builder’s plot.”
“How so?”
“In the builder’s sketch, there’s another door in the basement. However, our layout doesn’t show one. Did your guys find anything yet? No, not yet.”
An officer ran towards the Commander. He stopped at his side. The Commander turned in this direction.
“Excuse me sir,” the young man said.
The Commander took the phone away from his ear.
“Yes.”
“Captain, we need to show you something. Do you have a moment?”
“Anita I need to go, some developments have come up. Can I give you a call back?” He asked.
“Sure. I’m curious to hear what they’ve found.”
“We all are.”
“What’s the urgency Captain?” The Commander asked.
“We’ve found another door in the basement,” the Captain said.
“Really, where does it lead to?”
“That’s the problem. We don’t know.”
“Well…why isn’t someone checking it out?”
“It’s barricaded. I have some guys trying to knock the door down now.”
The Commander followed the Captain into the house. Torn curtains blew through the shattered windows. Bullet holes lined the walls. Broken glass covered the floors. Dust layered the dining room table and the nearby window sills.
“This way to the basement,” the Captain said.
The stairs leading to the basement were intact. A trial of blood led the way. It stopped just to the right. Two men were in front of the door with sledge hammers. Half the door was chopped away. A mountain of cinder blocks lay in front of them. They were from the floor to the ceiling.
“How the hell did this happen? Where does this lead to?” The Commander asked.
“I have no idea sir.”
“Captain make arrangements for a demolition team ASAP. We need these questions answered now. This is unbelievable.”
“More like clever sir.”
The Commander gave the Captain a stern stare and walked away. He turned toward the trail of blood. It stopped just before the door.
“Where did this person go?”
“I’ve been wondering the same thing,” the Captain said.
“Either he went another direction or he may have wrapped the injured part and went through the tunnel also.”
“Look into this further Captain. I’d hate to think he’s watching us while we piece things together.”
“Aye sir.”
The Commander turned back toward the wall and shook his head.
Red, white, and blue balloons were tied to the rails on the nearby tables and others cling to the ceiling. Hooter’s girls dressed in mini- skirts with Uncle Sam hats and colorful ties. It was standing room only. Young, white males thirty and younger watched the flat screens ahead. CNN and local networks showed the votes they poured in. Obama led the way. They all waited for his official acceptance. The reporter had just appeared, he was scheduled to come on air within five minutes. Everyone waited intently.
“I can’t believe this babe,” Chloe said.
Ade grabbed her hands. She looked him in the eyes.
“I love you so much Chloe,” Ade said.
“I love you too babe. Why are you so serious tonight?”
“No reason. I’m just happy to be here with you and enjoy this special occasion together.”
“Me too, babe. Me too.”
“Do you want another drink?” Ade asked.
“All depends…are you going to have one with me?”
“Of course I am. I wouldn’t want you to drink alone.”
The waiter walked over to their table.
“Can I get you guys something to drink?”
She looked towards Chloe.
“Yes, I’ll have a Blonde bombshell.”
“And you sir, what are you having this evening,” the waiter asked.
“I’ll take a Hurricane.”
“Would you like any more wings or appetizers?”
“No. We’re good for now,” Ade said.
“I’ll bring your drinks backs shortly.”
She cleared the empty plates and wiped off the table before leaving.
The volume on all the T.V.s blared. President elect Obama face appeared on all the screens. The crowd roared as he took the stage. He was about to deliver his acceptance speech. The crowd clapped for at least three minutes before they died down.
“We did it. Change…change we can believe in,” Obama said.
The young, Afro-American, senator from Chicago began his speech. Everyone watched in awe. Some patrons held hands. Tears streamed down some of the waitress faces as they watched the T.V. screen. Others rocked back and forth and smiled.
They continued to hold hands and embrace the moment. After fifteen minutes, he finished his speech. The volume was turned down, but they kept the stations on the news channels.
“Do you think I’ll make a great president some day?” Ade asked.
“Of course. When do you plan on running for the oval office?”
“I’m guessing 2017.”
“2017?”
“Yes, 2017. Is that a problem?” He asked.
“Well yeah. Why so long? Why not 2012?” Chloe asked.
“The way I see it, Obama will definitely be reelected for another four year term. In those eight years, I can get enough funds raised, the right wardrobe, and the perfect theme for my slogan or campaign.”
“Uh huh. And what will your slogan be?”
“I haven’t thought that far ahead yet. I figure, I’ll focus on that in the next two years.”
“I see. Well let me know. Maybe I can help out with that one.”
“Maybe you can,” he said as he winked at her.
“Enough about me, how’s everything been with you. It’s been almost a month since I’ve seen you. You ran off with your friend to D.C. How did that trip go?”
“It went well. I had an opportunity to catch up with a good friend of mine and do a lot of writing.”
“How about Anita? Did she have any success catching that fugitive?”
“Somewhat.”
“Hmm. I’m confused, either she got them or she didn’t,” he said.
“True. She hasn’t apprehended anyone, but they’re closer than before.”
“How so?”
“Earlier today, the local S.W.A.T. raided Gabrielle’s home. There was a standoff with Gabrielle and her men and the S.W.A.T. A few men were killed on both sides, but Gabrielle and her some men got away.”
“What?” How could that be possible? I’ve rarely heard of a S.W.A.T standoff and several people escaped. What went wrong?”
“A lot according to the last text she sent me. She said there was a hidden tunnel through the basement.”
“Well, there you go. Now that’s thinking ahead. That’s gangster. How many criminals you know think that far ahead?”
“Not any, because I don’t deal with any criminals.”
“You know what I mean. Not figuratively.”
“Yeah, I guess but if I did; I would definitely want to deal with high tech or smart ones like these. They even blew up the robot once it got near the window.”
“Are you serious? They didn’t blow up the robot,” he asked.
“Yes, they did.”
They both burst into laughter. Ade grabbed Chloe’s hand. She looked at him.
“I missed you babe.”
“I missed you too.”
“You think we could spend more time together?” Ade asked.
“What do you mean?”
“You know…more quality time other than once a week or once every two weeks. I want us to become more than a casual date here and there.”
Ade rubbed her hand and continued to speak.
“I think. I know I love you Chloe. I know I’m crazy about you and I want a serious relationship. What do you think?”
“Whew. I wasn’t expecting all this attention tonight.”
“I know. Ade said. It was just on my heart and I had to share it.”
“I really love being with you Ade, but I’m not sure if I want anything so serious now. I’m still waiting for the final divorce hearing. After all this is final…I want some me time. I’ve even considered abstinence for a year.”
“Why would you do that?”
“To become more at peace with myself, it will give me time to embrace me and not focus on anything else.”
“Can’t you do that along with sex?”
“Yeah, but intimacy brings too much attachments for me. Men don’t get as emotionally attached as women when sex is involved. So…ya’ll can’t go long periods without sex.” She said.
“Why can’t we just be an item? Is that so wrong? I want you to be mine.” Ade said.
“See that mine thing. It’s not working for me. I’m not ready for that kind of commitment. I need to get pass this past relationship. I’m willing to continue seeing you, but I don’t want any attachments or feel obligated.”
“So, you’re letting your past relationship or marriage effect future relationships.”
“No. I’m just not ready. It’s been six months, we’ve been dating. Me and my husband were together for four years; five with dating. I don’t want any commitment.”
Ade stared at Chloe. He moved his hand away from hers and grabbed the drink. He turned his Hurricane up and finished the glass. She watched.
“Look, it’s nothing personal. I’m sorry.”
“No apology necessary,” Ade said.
The waiter came back to their table.
“Can I get you anything else?” She asked.
“We’ll take the check now,” Ade said.
“Okay, I’ll be right back,” she said as she walked off.
“I need to go to the restroom, be back in a minute.”
Chloe slid out the chair and walked toward the outside of the bar. Ade watched as she faded into the crowd. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a red box. It was small in dimension maybe three or four inches wide. The box snapped when he opened it. An emerald solitaire sparkled on a platinum band. His eyes pooled with tears.
“That’s beautiful,” the waitress said.
He jumped and closed the box.
“Oh…I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.”
“Don’t worry. You just startled me a little.”
He closed the box and placed it back in his pocket.
“Does she know?”
“No…not yet. But, I may have to wait.”
“Well, don’t be discouraged. Now may not be the time,” she said while placing down the check.
“What are you talking about?” Ade asked.
“I heard some of your conversation before she went to the restroom. If she isn’t ready, you need to back off. She’s got a good point. Women need space after a relationship to recover and move on. Let her have that time. And if it’s meant to be, it will.”
Ade pulled his wallet from his back pocket and took out his Visa.
“Here you go,” he said as he handed the check with the card to the waitress.
Chloe walked toward the table. The waitress smiled as she approached.
I’ll be back in a moment.”
Chloe watched as she left the table and turned toward Ade.
“Is everything good?” Chloe asked.
“All is well. Why’d you ask?”
“I don’t know. I just got this funny feeling over me.”
“Really, like what,” Ade asked.
“Almost like something was about to happen, but it didn’t.”
“Funny you’d say that.”
The waitress returned with Ade’s card and a pen for him to sign the check.
“Here you go,” she said as he laid the paper and pen in front of him.
“Thank you for coming to Hooters.”
“You’re welcome,” they both replied.
Ade signed the check and pushed it to the side. He looked up at Chloe.
“Are you ready to go?”
“Yes, how ‘bout you?” she asked.
“Ready as always. Let’s do this.”
October 29, 2014
The Sequel...."In the Company of Strangers"
If you haven't already...check out my Kickstarter page on www.Kickstarter.com and search for "In the Company of Strangers". I've polished up the video and audio. You need to hit both to get the full effect. Don't judge, I'm new to this. Everybody who donates gets some special gift; you can donate as little as $1. Come on and be a part of the creative process. The keyboard is smoking; I'm more than half finished with the rough draft. Happy reading...Chapter 1 coming soon.
The Sequel...."In the Company of Strangers"
If you haven't already...check out my Kickstarter page on www.Kickstarter.com and search for "In the Company of Strangers". I've polished up the video and audio. You need to hit both to get the full effect. Don't judge, I'm new to this. Everybody who donates gets some special gift; you can donate as little as $1. Come on and be a part of the creative process. The keyboard is smoking; I'm more than half finished with the rough draft. Happy reading...Chapter 1 coming soon.
October 22, 2014
It's coming....The Sequel
I have a big announcement. The keyboard has been steaming and I'm very close to completion of the sequel to the "The Friends and Family Connection:Get Unplugged." I expect it to be released in December. When? Hopefully early...so you can put it on your Christmas list. However, if you'd like to assist me with the creative process and get an advanced copy or a special package with this new release; checkout my Kickstarter page. The project title is "In the Company of Strangers." It is under art/fiction books. More updates to follow. Happy reading...
September 10, 2014
What would you do?
For the past week now, Gainesville police have been on the search for this sexual predator who has been attacking campus students. Some attacks have been bold on campus while others are nearby and others in the wee hours of the morning.
As an avid, runner and cyclist I very my times and days of running and cycling. However, I'm always mindful of my surroundings. My question to you is what are your thought concerning this growing development.
Goodreads followers...would you keep running and/or traveling at night or alone change your routine?
Check out the below article if you're not familiar with this ongoing story.
University of Florida Boosts Campus Security After String of Assaults
The University of Florida has stepped up campus security and released surveillance video of a possible suspect after a fourth woman was assaulted in recent weeks.
The latest incident was reported Sunday, when a woman was tackled from behind near the campus library’s parking lot. She managed to fight off the assailant and run away.
Police say the string of assaults started at about 9:30 p.m. Aug. 30, when a 21-year-old woman told police she was beaten and almost raped by an unknown man on the Gainesville campus.
A second incident was reported hours later, at 2 a.m. Aug. 31, with a victim dragged into a wooded area before witnesses were able to chase the man away.
A third woman was approached Friday by an unidentified man outside of the school library. University of Florida Police Department Maj. Brad Barber said the woman in the third incident fought back.
“The individual came up from behind her, grabbed her, they had a brief conversation, at which point she then literally punched him in the face and the suspect left on foot,” Barber said.
Police said the four victims all describe the man as white, in his late 20s or early 30s, about 6-foot-4 or 6-foot-5 and weighing about 250 pounds. Police aren’t sure whether Sunday’s incident is related to the others.
Students on campus now wonder if they can defend themselves.
“I think that I could defend myself,” one student said, “but I think if I was put in this situation I would be really scared.”
August 19, 2014
It's about that time...
Myself...I love the heat. It gives me time to enjoy the beach, run freely with my shorts and cycling. All these things I enjoy because my hands and toes won't get numb and require warming up first.
However,driving down the highway through the Northeast when the leaves are changing
is the most amazing sight. You can't beat the beautiful hues of autumn, burnt orange and yellow leaves...that's why it's the fall.
Don't forget about that cool fall breeze, amazing.
