19th January, 1999
Undisclosed location
Joel
I watched with satisfaction as Lana stared at Gregory, completely lost for words. So far, I think this is the biggest bombshell I've dropped on her. On the other hand, convincing Gregor on this wasn't as easy as I expected. I will give him that though, the man is loyal to a fault. That's when I used the greatest weapon of all- money. Who knew the great governor could bend by just offering him a few thousand dollars. I never knew that he was deep in debt. Apparently, our good man here found himself in the company of some drug barons and now, they needed the money he was loaned.
My offer was like a breath of fresh air to him, accepting quickly like his life depended on it. Actually, it does.
"This is your plan?" Lana asked, breaking into my thoughts. She stared at Gregory as if he'd suddenly grown two heads. Then, she looked at me. Disappointment, anger and hurt clouding
21st January, 1999New YorkFirst lady Samantha Rawlings "Sam" my mother whispered, handing me a cup of coffee. I slowly took a sip, staring at the window as the rain poured down in torrents. Its like it came with a purpose, like it was trying to wash away everything that was not meant to happen. It was a steady crescendo, drowning out every of my thoughts as i cradled the cup of coffee closer, taking warmth from its soothing embrace.Melissa Reynolds stood, staring at her daughter, not knowing quite what to do in this case. She knew of her granddaughter's kidnap and now, the man behind this gruesome act which her daughter just revealed to her.A strong woman of seventy six, she was loved and respected by many having trained her children singlehandedly after being abandoned by her husband. She was an epitome of grace, humility and often preached all these to her children even up until now.A proud mother of three successful chil
21st January, 1999(evening)Washington D.CUndisclosed locationLana "So this is your game plan", I said giving Joel a death glare. "It's not a game child. Its real," he said. "What then do you stand to gain if my father resigns?", I asked, hardly believing any of this. " Tsk tsk. Not to worry kid, you'll find out in due time" he waved me off.I sat back, keeping quiet for now. Who knew what Joel could do when he was angry. That man was so unpredictable.They soon left the room, plunging me in darkness. This was far worse than when I was in my room at the warehouse. The difference was clear, I felt like a queen living there but now I didn't even know what to think.There was no way that my dad could win the upcoming elections, nobody in his right senses would vote for a man who couldn't keep his own family safe. If they had their way, they will call for
22nd January, 1999The White HousePresident Freddie RawlingsIt was a gloomy day, just like how I was feeling at the moment. A day no doubt that will bring trouble and chaos if I didn't handle it well. Today is the day that I finally tender my resignation, the day the whole world will know the monster I am. Earlier, I had called Matt, my special adviser to inform him that finally I have come to the end of the race. I couldn't do it anymore, pretending to myself that I was fighting a war when in reality I was just fighting with myself. Come to think of it, who was I kidding. A murderer like me is clearly not fit to rule talk more of making decisions. Its better I face the music now before its too late. I knew what was coming and oddly enough, I wasn't scared. Joel and his gang might as well do their worse but not until I get my daughter out of there. Gregor. To think that my best friend could betray me, someone I so trusted was a big blow to the face. Deep down, I knew that he had a
22nd January, 1999(evening)Undisclosed LocationLionelI had just stepped out of the bathroom when the ringing of my phone halted me in my steps. I continued drying my hair, purposely ignoring the phone. I wasn't in the mood to take any calls, the person could as well call back later if he was interested in talking to me.The phone finally fell silent only to resume once more with a strong determination. I sighed, knowing that I had to take it. "What", I practically growled into the phone. " Check the news", the voice said. "Who the hell are you to tell me what to do" I seethed. "Quit being stubborn for once and check the damn news" the voice said before cutting the call.That was rude, so rude. I'm sure the idiot didn't know who I was or else he would have
24th January, 1999Undisclosed locationLanaI've been locked up here for a week now. I've had little to no contact with Joel or Lionel. Heck, I didn't even know what was going on in the outside world. I was being treated as a leper, everyone completely forgetting about me. Except for the occasional meals that one of JG's goons bring to me, I've been pretty much alone. Not once nor twice have I tried breaking out of this damp cellar, it was impossible.It felt like it was guarded by an unseen force. The wait was beginning to get overwhelming especially if you've got no news about what's going on.A noise drifted into my thoughts followed by heavy footsteps making its way to the door. That's odd, it wasn't yet time for my usual meals. Moreover, the footsteps sounded like it belonged to two people. The door soon opened, revealing two of JG's goons. I scrambled to my feet out of fear and shock because I didn't know what to expect. I had no idea
24th January, 1999(evening)The safe HousePresident Freddie RawlingsIts been two days since Matt announced my impeachment. Two days of terror. Currently, Samantha and I were at a safe house after we were told to leave the white house.Looking back, I really missed the house with all the memories that was formed. I missed my office, missed the kitchen and the cute little coffee maker that was a life saver. Hell, I even missed some of the secret service agents. Now, we were only assigned two.The events that took place at the Congress yesterday was still fresh on my mind. The utter fear I felt, standing in front of all those people, the hate in their eyes as they stared at me with disgust. Already, I could tell that they had judged me with their eyes. Each hate filled whisper I got broke my heart the more as I was being ushered in. I was like a lamb being led to the slaughter house, feeling the penetrating gaze on my back.I had been impeach
25th January, 1999Undisclosed LocationLanaI'm free. That's the first thought that came to my mind immediately I woke up this morning. I could feel it. Today makes it one month exactly since I was kidnapped, a month of tears, anger and sadness. At a point, I didn't even know if I'll be released.Joel sure surprised me when he told me that I'll be going home. That came as a shock, a big one at that. Stretching my tired limbs, I stared at the window looking at the sun which had come up so early. Today was going to be a good day, I was sure about this.There was a light knock on my door. It could either be Joel or one of his goons. I wasn't ready to face them yet. Damn! I'm still in my pyjamas. Rushing to my feet, I quickly made my way to the bathroom, splashing water on my tired face. I quickly made my way to the door. Throwing it open, I came face to face with Lionel. Ok... I didn't expect him to be here this early. The memories of our last encou
25th January, 1999(evening)The Safe HouseFreddie RawlingsI can't believe she's back. My daughter is finally home. This morning, a hooded figure accompanied her to a spot very close to the safe house. I was confused as to how they knew where the safe house was located, seems like Joel knows everything going on around him. I wouldn't put it pass him to even know where my extended family lives.Lana arrived in a black van with a bunch of JG's goons, talk about typical cliché. They dropped her off with one of the secret service agents who then brought her home. I still wasn't allowed to go out until after my trial. When I saw her, I was a bit surprised that she was looking somewhat healthy. Apart from a few scratches here and there, she was actually fine. I would forever remember the joy on Samantha's face when she saw Lana, the tears of joy streaming down her eyes as she held her in a crushing embrace. I could tell from the look on her face that sh
Freddie Rawlings "What's the situation of things Brooks", I said, pacing about. My lawyer had just walked in with a perplexed look in his eyes. I was getting fed up of the whole situation with no hope in sight. I had already sent Samantha and Lana to a safe location pending when all these would be over. "Sir, I might have found a solution to our predicament", he said. "Okay, let me hear it". Brooks began narrating what he had planned and I couldn't help but smile at the plan. Not only was it feasible but it was a realistic plan. In one word, it was flawless. The case was adjourned till the following month and we had a lot of time to accomplish it. "Do you think it's going to work?", I asked. "I'm
Brooks Davies 32 Boleauvard street, New Jersey The case between the Former President and JG was getting worse by the day. Each time the case was heading to a positive direction, JG always found a way to bring in more incriminating evidences. By now, I had already exhausted most of my resources and I was left at a cross road. JG had power and money that much was certain but his innate ability to convince a crowd was superb. JG was a demi god, one who could control people however he pleased and I had a sinking feeling that was what he did. I had a feeling that he bribed the judge and all those working on the case. At a snap of his fingers, top business men and men in power come running at once. I exhaled, thinking of the next line of action to take. I could talk to JG to drop the case but I knew that would be like wishing for a unicorn. JG was stubborn as ever and no amount of cajoling or begging would make him change h
6th January, 1999 Federal High Court Freddie Rawlings Another day, another battle. It goes on and on. A motion already in place, only one fatal evidence would halt this moving storm. Deep down, I knew it was coming, sooner than expected. The presiding judge arrived soon and the court was fully ready for today's proceedings. "Good day everyone, welcome to today's court proceedings. Without wasting much of our time, let's begin. I'll call on Carl greenwood to begin his cross-examination of his first witness. Carl stood up smartly, adjusting his toe as he made his way to the witness stand. The witness, a willowy tall brunette was ushered in. She looked out of place in a court full of vibrant people. She looked like someone who should be shielded from the wickedness of the world, someone who should be kept, like an egg. If her sunken eyes didn't give the impression that she was always hungry, her l
4th January, 1999Undisclosed locationLionelJoel was beginning to haunt my dreams. A day hardly passes without me seeing him in my dreams. He was a living nightmare, watching my every move, waiting for the right moment to strike. I could tell that he was watching me closely, too closely for my liking. He already had his suspicions about me but oddly enough, I didn't care. He could do his worse and I wouldn't give a damn. I was tired, fedup with living this kind of life. A life of fear, battles.At this point, I was ready to spill all of Joel's secrets and this time, there was no stopping me. Freddie was suffering for a crime he didn't commit. Though I wasn't present when it happened, I can bet on my last blood that he is innocent. He is being frames but only God knows why.Joel is not only an animal but a bloody monster who should be dealt with in the most severe way. The trial was progressing and the odds were not in Freddie's favour. Something
2nd February, 1999Federal High CourtFreddie RawlingsToday is the day we call in the witnesses, today will determine how the rest of the trial will go. To say I'm scared would be an understatement, I was downright terrified. Who knew the tricks Joel could pull, I wouldn't be surprised if he's already influenced their decisions. "We thank you all for converging here this morning as we begin the cross examination of the witnesses. This honorable court wishes to appeal to you that no matter what happens during this cross examination, we beg you to hold your peace. Without further ado, may we have the first witness please", the honorable judge said.Carl lifted himself out of his chair with a sigh and slowly walked over to the first witness who was earlier ushered into the witness box.A tall broad man with salt and pepper hair stood in the witness box as he watched Carl approach with a bit of fe
31st January, 1999Undisclosed locationJoelThe reports that Lionel was sending in was not encouraging at all. I never knew that Brooks could pose a problem. If I had known ever since, I would have taken him out. I don't want any thing to spoil my carefully laid out plans. Brooks was posing a threat now, a big one. The problem now is that it won't be easy to take him out now when the whole world already knows that he's defending Freddie.That was a silly mistake on my path. I'll let him be for now. After the trial, I can take him out. After all, he won't be of any use again. In the mean time, my whole focus will be on Freddie and his family. I must acknowledged Carl, he's really doing a good job. Speaking of the devil, he walked in at that moment, walking majestically like he owned the place. I had called him earlier so we could have a meeting but I didn't expect him to be this fast. "Morning J", he hollered.
30th January, 1999Federal High CourtUnknown POVCarl Greenwood rose to make his opening address to the jury. He was a skilled and able prosecutor, hardly was there any he lost. He was always in the know, got his facts and figures right and he was known for bringing up surprises even at the last minute.Freddie's hands were shaking as he began his address. He talked about how he murdered Anna, giving the spectators a picture they could think about. He described each event like he was present. By now, Freddie could feel the hatred in their eyes. "Before this trial has ended", Carl said. " the state will prove that Freddie Rawlings cold bloodedly murdered Anna Gustav by drowning knowing fully well the poor Lady could not swim. We shall prove beyond a shadow of doubt... "Carl kept his address short and to the point then it was the turn of the Attorney of defense. The spectators in the courtroom watched Brooks Davies as he
29th January, 1999(The trial)Federal High CourtUnknown POVFew hours before the murder trial of Freddie Rawlings was to begin, Room 4 in the Federal courthouse in Washington DC was overflowing with spectators. The courthouse was an enormous white building that took more than half of the land where it sat peacefully. The inside was another story entirely. The 50- year old building was one of the biggest in the state and was responsible for most trials.It was an imposing structure which sends shivers down the spine of anyone who comes in contact with it and this was the same effect it had on Freddie Rawlings who sat in the first row of benches with his lawyer, Brooks Davies who was known for his wittiness, sharp tongue and his unrelenting attitude. Suffice to say, he was one of the best in the whole of Washington DC and even in the whole country.A tall man with light freckles on his cheek, graying hair and deep set eyes that barely missed nothing. He
28th January, 1999(a day before the trial)The Safe HouseFreddie RawlingsNumb. That's how I felt at this moment, this feeling of nothingness around me. This feeling of hopelessness. Tomorrow, I'll stand in court before the whole world, testifying to my sins as I watch the whole world condemn me with their eyes.I was beyond exposed now, with no where left to hide. The law has finally gotten me, my sins has finally come knocking. It was time to pay. This morning, Lana had already left for her grandmother's house. Lord knows she's still too young to experience the rigours that associates the courtroom. I wouldn't want her to see the judging eyes from the spectators, their evil tongue as they spew harsh words at me. No, I don't want her to experience any of that. She's to young, much too young.I was so nervous and scared at the outcome of tomorrow's trial, it will determine if the whole trial will go well or not. From my subconscious mind, I