We arrived back at the chateau early just in time for breakfast and got out of our vans, stretching and yawning, like we had just completed a long trip. That’s what we want people to believe if they are watching us, that way they will be our proof that we had nothing to do with Carmeline’s escape from prison. Meanwhile, “Yeah, they just got back,” said Pete, “by the looks of things they have driven all night to get back here so early. Guess they didn’t want to try getting Carmeline out of prison.”

“Keep watching,” said Harold, “maybe they have her with them.” Now, back to us. Jennifer met us outside and asked how things went. “There’s no way to get her out of that prison,” I said, “I just don’t see what we can do to help her, except maybe making an appeal by using our legal team.” “By that time they will kill Carmeline,” said Celestine. “That’s true Steve,” said Jennifer, “can’t we do something else?” “No, not really,” I said, “we are totally stuck on this one.

We have to remember that we have to follow the law, we are not criminals. However, Carmeline did tell us about some gang that she is associated with that might be able to get her out. That might be the best way since they don’t have to follow the law being criminals.” “Who would that be?” asked Jennifer. “Apparently some gang called the Wildcats,” I said, “they are a fairly large and strong gang that has really been building themselves over the last couple of years.”

“Maybe I should join that gang,” said Celestine angrily, “at least they want to try and help Carmeline. I thought the Investigators were strong, but I guess we’re just a bunch of wimps!” She then stomped into the chateau. “Guess I better go have a talk with her,” said Jennifer, “she’s just tired and disappointed right now. She’s not angry with you Steve, she will be okay.”

Meanwhile, “Yep, that’s the conversation Harold,” said Pete, “I didn’t know that Carmeline had connections with a gang.” “I didn’t know that either,” said Harold, “I will have Amos check on that gang right away. Then I’ll call Madame Ava to make sure she watches Carmeline more closely and not to let any other visitors in to see Carmeline. Maybe I will have her put into solitary for a while until she finally gives me the location of those gems. I must have those gems!

All we ended up with from the inheritance was a measly $50 million, that certainly won’t last Philly and I very long. I should be able to get that much for those gems, maybe even more.” “I thought Philly had money too,” said Pete. “She does, about $200 million,” said Harold, “but most of it is tied up in real estate, or other investments. She only makes about $1 million a year to live on, we have too many expenses to live on that.”

Now, back to us again. We are all back inside the chateau now so no one can hear us. “Well Steve, was a suitably frustrated?” asked Celestine smiling. “Yes, you put on a great act,” I said, “it almost sounded too real.” She giggled and hugged me. “Aw, I would never get angry with you,” she said. “How’s it going Cristy?” I asked. “I found Harold’s computer and Akila has hacked into it,” she said, “and as we speak, she is removing all photos with Carmeline in them, including group family photos.”

“I hope she doesn’t get caught doing that,” I said. “Steve, she’s a pro,” said Cristy, “even if he is using his computer at the time he still won’t know she is also on there doing things.” Cristy, Melody, Trixie and Hannah are all working together to try and find out as much as they can about Harold and Philly, plus all their associations if possible.

Meanwhile, Kat and her Wildcats have now crossed the border and are on their way to the rendezvous in Germany. “Kat, do you know someone named Helene?” asked Friskie. “Yes, she is one of our enemies,” replied Kat, “why do you ask?” “I just intercepted a call from Carmeline’s brother to Helene,” she said, “it seems she is his girlfriend, but Philly knows nothing about it.” “Well now, that is interesting,” said Kat, “um, how did you intercept the call?”

“It’s just something that happens sometimes,” said Friskie, “I don’t know how or why it happens, but it’s very real.” “Hey, that’s one of your abilities Friskie,” said Kat happily, “I will work on that with you so you can control it better.” Kat then communicated this information to me. “Well, now that’s interesting,” I said to Jennifer, “Harold has a girlfriend and it’s Helene, unknown to Philly.”

“Oooo, now that’s a good one to know,” said Jennifer, “someone should tell that bit of news to Philly, don’t you think?” “Yes, I certainly agree with you about that one,” I said, “but how do we let her know without implicating ourselves too much? She likely wouldn’t believe us anyway.” “Very true,” said Jennifer, “but, all we need do is get her to check his phone or intercept one of his calls to Helene and send it to Philly’s phone too.”

“Hmm, yeah, that would work nicely,” I said, “breaking up those two would be a good thing to do before they get any stronger.” Meanwhile, the ghosts and some of the team are now on our jet heading to Mandar’s safe house in Italy. We have 3 other houses to choose from if we need to keep her hidden longer, but for now we’ll concentrate on this one.

To Be Continued. ©2026 Steve McLeod.