Nikita: Helmet - is that you?
Helmet: Yes.
N: I'm sorry to bother you.
Once Helmet realizes who is on the phone, he sits up in his bed, "Nikita, ---that's you --are you alright?"
N: Yes, yes - I'm okay -- well (she laughed) -- I guess it's normal but I'm not feeling all that well with the pregnancy. I'll be okay, though. And -- Helmet -- I've been thinking over what you said - about your offer to help me find Michael -- and well -- I'd like to accept your offer -- if that's okay.



H: Of course it is. I'll help you in any way I can.
N: Maybe I can visit you and we can -- well work on it together. I have one more lead to follow up that Walter has discovered - it's a CIA contact here in London. I need to talk to him and see if he has any information. And then -- well --
Helmet interrupted her. "Nikita, follow up on your lead, then come here to Ibiza -- you and Walter, both of you, and stay here, and we will see what we can find.
N: You're a wonderful man to be doing this for me -- there are dangers involved --
H: Nikita, you know how I feel -- I'll do anything I can to help. Let me know when you want to depart, I'll arrange a plane -- I'll be waiting.
Later that afternoon, Walter arrived back at the houseboat, "Sorry I took so long Sugar -- but I -- well my friend and I had alot of things to catch up on."

Nikita smiled, "That's fine Walter. Oh, I've been talking to Helmet and, well after following up the CIA lead, I think I'll go to Ibiza and have him help us."
Walter: Help us?
Nikita went and put her arm around Walter.



N: Walter, I couldn't be doing this without you but you are in danger too. You need to make a decision whether you're going to continue, return to Section or what......
Walter laughed, "Return to Section! I don't think things would be too pleasant for me there."
N: I'll look after that Walter. There won't be any repercussions for you - I'll make sure of that.
Walter smiled, "I wouldn't be too sure of that Sugar - after all I've been helping the head of Center's daughter disappear. I better come with you to Spain. The operation that Helmet has set up sounds - well - interesting. My days at Section are long over. We'll see if Helmet can use an old operative like myself."
Walter looked at Nikita's attire - she was busy putting on a coat and hat. "Where are you headed?"
N: I'm going to make contact with the CIA agent in Hyde Park at 4pm.
W: I'll come with you.



Nikita: No Walter, I'd rather do this on my own. He'll be suspicious if there's two of us.
W: Sugar, I don't think you should be ......
N: It's fine. I'll be okay. I'll be back this evening.

Nikita sat in Hyde Park at the designated spot the CIA agent had said to wait. He was over half an hour late. What Nikita didn't realize was that two CIA agents were seated in a car observing her.
Agent: Are you going to make contact with her?
Head Agent: No. We'll sit here and wait and observe her - she's the first real lead we've had following up on this guy. She must have some reason why she's looking for him.
Agent: Just who is she?
Head Agent: We're not sure but she's working for some undercover agency.



Agent: I don't know, I think we should go and talk to her.
Head Agent: No, we'll play this one covertly and follow her, then we'll put a permanent tail on her.
A full hour had passed and Nikita was getting concerned. Had she got her intel incorrect? The agent was suppose to be meeting her here. As she shifted her position on the park bench, she looked over behind her.



She saw a man sitting on another bench, staring ahead. She looked startled; the man from behind looked like Michael. "No," she thought, "It couldn't possibly be!"
She got up from the bench and walked over to the man, coming around to face him. "Oh my God," she thought, "it is Michael!"

Nikita: Michael!

The man looked up, "No, I'm sorry." He spoke with a slight French accent. "I'm sorry, that's not my name."



Nikita: Oh, pardon me, you look just like someone I know....and was....uh, waiting to meet here.
The man smiled at her. "Well unfortunately, I don't think I am the correct man."
N: Do you mind if I ask where you are from?
Man: I'm from Quebec, in Canada. (He rose and shook her hand) My name is Roy, and yours?
She took his hand, "Nikita, my name's Nikita."
The man named Roy was obviously taken with Nikita's beauty and held onto her hand a few moments too long. She looked at their hands - he withdrew his quickly.


Roy: Are you visiting London, or are you a local here?
N: No, I'm just visiting - but you have an uncanny resemblance to a person.......
R: Michael?
N: Yes, Michael,.....the person I'm looking for.
R: Well I wish that I was this Michael, but unfortunately I'm not - I'm in London for an audition.
N: Audition?
R: .....yes, for a role in a film
N: You're an actor?
R: Yes. I've decided to branch out and try for an international role instead of just staying doing parts in Canada. A collegue I was in a tv series with suggested it was time.

Nikita could not take her eyes off Roy's face - it was amazing - the resemblance to Michael. It was almost like Michael had taken on another identity. She had to find out more about this man. She smiled at him, "Would you like to go and have coffee, and tell me more about the role you're trying for?"


Roy beamed from ear to ear. "Well...yes...I'd like that."
The two began walking out of the park. A CIA agent followed them at a close distance behind.


When Nikita returned to the houseboat, she found Walter sitting reading a book. As she entered, he spoke, "Well Sugar, how did it go?"
N: I'm being followed Walter. But I'm pretty sure I lost him, after six different taxicabs, I'm sure he's still circling around London.
W: Who do you think it was?
N: Not sure - it could be Center, it could be anybody. But the CIA agent never showed. However I did meet a man...well, he's an actor from Canada and he could have been Michael's double.
W: Really!
N: It was amazing Walter. I actually thought it was Michael. I had coffee with him and he is definitely an actor - a very beautiful man but....(she laughed) definintely not Michael.


Walter: So where did you pick up the man tailing you?
N: Might have been in the park.
W: Helmet called back. He's made arrangements for us to fly directly to his villa. His personal plane will be taking us there. He said we could leave in the morning, if that's convenient with you.
N: Yes Walter, I think it's a good thing we are leaving, especially if someone has become interested in who we are.


At the same time Nikita was having this discussion with Walter, two CIA agents approached Roy as he sat eating his dinner at his hotel with his London theatrical agent, SpyUK. They flashed their identification and asked him to leave with them. They placed him in the back of their car, then one agent called into their command center on his cellphone. "I think we've got him, we're bringing him in for interrogation."
Roy's agent, SpyUK had followed them outside and shouted, "You have no jurisdiction in this country - you can't do this!"
The car drove away as SpyUK yelled, "Don't worry Roy - I'll find out what this is all about! I'll look after this and get you out!!"

SpyUK had waited to see the Canadian ambassador at the Canadian Embassy for over three hours.


The receptionist finally looked up and motioned Spy into the ambassador's office. They shook hands.
Ambassador: I understand you think a Canadian citizen has been arrested by CIA agents.
Spy: Arrested! The bloody well dragged him off for no good reason!
A: I've made some enquiries but what is your connection to this man? (He looks at papers on his desk) This Mr. Dupuis?
S: I'm his British threatrical agent.
A: I see. So you know him well?
S: Know him......well of course - I've booked him an audition for a film - a big film being shot in France, Greece......
A: So he's an actor.
S: I can't believe you haven't heard of him - he's known in Canada and you're - what - a Canadian.
A: Hummmmm - yes - well I don't watch Canadian films - I prefer Amercian movies.
S: What - what the.......!
A: Look I must tell you, the CIA have some very serious charges against Mr. Dupuis.
S: Charges of what!
A: He resembles a known terrorist. He was picked up in Afganistan, transported to London, then escaped and well the CIA have been after him.
S: Roy is no terrorist - this is ridiculous. Look - I --I want to see him!
A: The CIA won't allow that.
S: Have you asked them - go on, phone - poor Roy - he's only been in this country two days and the bloody CIA grab him. Go on call - I want to see him. And I'm not giving up - I'm not leaving the Embassy until you do something!
A: Very well, I'll try.
The ambassador picks up his telephone.

Nikita and Walter sit oppose each other on Helmet's private jet as it streaks across the continent of Europe, heading south to the Spanish island of Ibiza. Nikita closes her eyes trying to drift off into the oblivion of sleep. Her head falls to the side of the seat as she drifts into unconsciousness. Walter gets up and places a blanket around her shoulders and adjusts her head on a cushion. He smiles and thinks to himself, 'I hope this life mission will turn out the best for you - you deserve it.'



He returns to his seat and drifts off to sleep.

It is early afternoon when the jet lands on Ibiza. A Mercedes waits on the tarmack as the jet taxis to a stop. Nikita and Walter exit the plane and walk to the waiting Mercedes. The driver motions them into the car as their luggage is stored in the trunk. As they drive along the twisting shoreline road, Nikita asks the driver why Helmet hasn't met them himself. The driver replies that Helmet awaits them at the villa.
Walter: What do you think Sugar, things sound okay to you?
Nik: I'm sure everything if fine Walter.

 The Mercedes pulls up in front of a majestic Spanish Mediterranean villa.

The front door opens; Helmet stands holding out his arms to Nikita. He takes her in his arms, kissing her cheeks and forehead.

Walter grins, "Love that old European charm."
Helmet releases Nikita and extends his hand to Walter. "You must be Walter, I've heard many stories about you. Welcome, welcome, come in." Helmet directs two security men to take the luggage. "Take the bags up to the east rooms. Walter, your room overlooks the courtyard," he turns to Nikita, "and yours my beautiful Nikita, looks out to the azure sea."
Nikita: (blushing) Helmet, you haven't changed - charming as ever. I was a little worried about you when we met in London. (She laughs) You seemed somewhat....uptight and stuffy.
Helmet: Me! Uptight! Never. (He takes her hand and kisses it) How was the flight? Would you like to rest? If not, I would be delighted to give you a tour of the villa.
Walter: If you don't mind, I'd like to catch up on some work in my room.
H: Certainly. Brood, please show Walter to his room.
Walter leaves with the security guard.
N: Walter is being discreet, he knows you and I had ......well, a history. (She laughs) He knows we were married, even though it was a mission.
H: I didn't know it was a mission for you, not until the end.
N: Helmet, let's not go back remembering past events.
H: Right! You are my guest and I've promised to help you find Michael. So come - I'll give you a tour.
Helmet takes Nikita by the arm and leads her into the salon, dining room and out to the patio with the pool.



Nikita: Helmet, this is beautiful! No wonder you don't want to leave here.
H: It's an excellent location for running the, well, the business. Discreet, isolated, and well - a delight for my soul. I hope you will find it likewise. Come, (he takes her by the shoulder) let me show you the east view.
They walk together through a portico to view a magnificent view of the sea.



N: Helmet, I don't know what to say - it's breathtaking!
H: Now come, let me show you to your room.
They climb the staircase and enter a large bedroom with a four poster bed and view of the sea.



Helmet puts his arms around Nikita and holds her. "I'll help you with anything you want, you know how I feel about you."
N: Helmet...what we had...it was not real...I was on a mission...so were you.
H: I know, but you have to agree we did get along well. We felt something, I felt something...but I understand your love for Michael, especially carrying his child.
N: This is difficult for me being here with you...and I know you must care for me to try and help under the circumstances....I do care for you too...but I love Michael...I guess I always have. (She begins to cry) And I just feel he isn't dead...he's out there somewhere.



Helmet strokes her hair and holds her. "We'll find him Nikita, I'll get working on a tracking team tomorrow. Try not to worry. (He wipes her tears and gently kisses her cheeks) If Michael is out there - we will find him."

Michael and Carmana left Carnagnola, Italy on his motorcycle two days after he had made love to her. He had told her it was unsafe for him now; the authorities were suspicious and knew he was in the area. Carmana had quite willingly agreed. In fact she was excited to start a new life with this man she was so totally in love with.

Michael had decided to travel on as many secondary roads as possisble, thereby avoiding any police. Carmana had stated she had never been to Venice and had begged Michael to take them there. Michael had wanted to head into the south of Italy to Rome, fly to Athens and eventually to Beirut. Travelling with this young woman would be good cover. If MI6 or whoever was pursuing him saw two travelers on a motorcycle, perhaps they would not be as suspicious. But now Carmana was insisting they visit Venice. Michael reluctantly agreed.
As they lay together in the small pensione on the outskirts of Venice, Michael stared up at the ceiling. Carmana slept quietly in his arms now. They had made love throughout the night; Michael being gentle and caring with this young girl who simply could not get enough of him.



He stroked her hair as the dawn sunlight filtered through the curtain. Carmana's hair took on a golden glow with the sunlight. Michael looked at the distorted reflection in the mirror opposite the bed. He closed his eyes; Nikita's face floated before him; her golden hair adrift before his eyes. Carmana stirred in her sleep and reached out for Michael under the blankets. She grasped his manhood in her semi-conscious state; he moaned, and his erection responded to the touch of her hand. His eyes still remained riveted on the image of Nikita, floating, drifting before him - again - the ever presence of water.



His manhood rose to meet his abdomen. Carmana woke and smiled at Michael. She grasped his enormous arousal and whispered, "Michael are you sleeping?" He stirred but did not open his eyes. She slide down under the covers and began placing kisses on Michael's manhood. He took her head in his hands and guided her mouth as she sucked and kissed the throbbing erection. He could feel himself beginning to orgasm and suddenly sat up in the bed, pushing Carmana off him. She looked up in surprise, "What's wrong! I want to give you pleasure like you give me!"
Michael: No, I .......we should never have sex without protection!
C: I trust you. I want you Michael, I am ready now. I want you in me!
Michael rose from the bed and walked to the bathroom. The pain in his groin was excruciating. He opened a box of condoms and placed one carefully on his still fully aroused penis; he returned to the bed. Carmana pounced on him as he lay down.
C: Now Michael, now please! I want.........!

Carmana: Now Michael, now please! I want.........
Michael entered her slowly, remembering she was still a young girl who had never had a man until himself. He wanted to thrust hard, over and over, anything to gain release of the pain he felt. She dug her fingers into his shoulders and he realized she was experiencing an organsm immediately.



He let go with sudden thrusts until he felt his body release the shooting pain he felt. Carmana screamed with delight and yelled his name over and over. Michael withdrew, got up from the bed and returned to the bathroom. He cleaned himself, washed and looked at his image in the mirror. "What was he doing," he thought. "Who was he making love to? This young girl or an image of a dead woman."
After Michael and Carmana showered and had a light breakfast, they left on the motorcycle to enter Venice. They left the bike at the huge vehicle parking area and took a ferry into the city. Although Michael had travelled extensively throughout the world on missions, he had never been to Venice.



He marveled at the architecture and waterways. Carmana was like a schoolgirl, screaming at the delights before her. When they arrived at the pensione, they entered their room. Michael took her hand and spoke softly.
M: I think you should telephone your sister and let her know you are okay. She will be worried.
C: I left that note saying we were holidaying together.
M: Please call her. Tell her you are in Venice.
C: But she might......
Michael picked up the phone and handed it to Carmana. She began dialing the number.
C: Hello, yes, it's me. Fine. We're in Venice and Michael said I should telephone you. What, yes, he's here. Yes - Michael, she wants to talk to you.
M: (taking the phone) Yes...... Yes, I know she is - she will be alright. There is no need to contact police, we are ..... very well ....the Pensione Lido. Yes, very well.
Michael relaced the receiver.



Carmana: You told her where we are staying! Why did you do that! Now she will try to bring me back. You should have told her we were in love. You know I love you Michael.
She ran to Michael, jumped onto him, wrapping her arms around his neck and legs around his waist. "Let's make love again. I want to feel you again, over and over, inside me!"
She began pulling Michael to the bed. He sat with her and spoke softly. "You are a wonderful girl, I feel deep affection for you........"
C: No, no, no, no! I don't want to hear this! Come on let's go and sightsee then, we'll get a gondola, then find a wonderful restaurant, drink too much wine, watch the moon on the canals then ........
Michael rose from the bed and took her hand and they left the room together.

Michael and Carmana left the pensione and began touring around the usual tourist attractions. They took yet another gondola ride, visited the Piazza S. Marco and the Palazzo Ducale.



Michael had suggested a trip to the Internazionale d'Arte but Carmana had feigned boredom with more 'old' art exhibits. Instead, they bought wine to bring back to the pensione. Carmana would not discuss her sister. Michael had tried to reason with her and when he suggested they return to the pensione, Carmana stated she wanted to buy him a surprise gift and that he should return and she would join him in one hour. Michael reluctantly left her and as he entered the pensione reception, the deskclerk handed him a note. It was from Carmana's sister - she would arrive tomorrow and was planning on taking her home.
Michael entered their room, opened the wine and poured a glass.



He stood at the window, looking out at the canal and thought to himself, "I should not have got involved with this girl - I am ruining her life."
He held his head: the last few days, the re-occuring headaches had returned. "What is causing them?" He remembered an explosion - the one that had killed Nikita. A concussion - he must still be suffering the effects. His past life in Section was blurred - all he could recall was doing some type of work with some government.
The door opened and Carmana entered carrying a large basket of assorted fruit.
C: Michael, you said you loved fresh fruit - well look - I found every type of fruit you could possibly want!
Michael did not reply.
C: What's the matter?
M: Your sister is arriving tomorrow - to take you home.
C: Noooooooooo!


Michael: (going to her and comforting her) Carmana, this is for the best - I am a fugitive. I have authorities hunting me. You and I cannot have a life together.
C: I don't care about that! You don't love me do you. You still love that woman - the woman who's name you call to in your sleep - Nikita!
M: She is dead, Carmana.
C: You love a dead woman!
She began to weep, "I gave myself to you and now you cast me away, like a discarded whore!"
M: Don't talk like this. Please try to understand - I was wrong in having you come with me.
C: Get out of my sight! I never want to see you again!
M: I will go - but promise me you will wait here for your sister.
C: GET OUT!!!

Michael collected his few belongings, stuffed them into his pack and left the room. He went downstairs and asked the desk clerk for another room. The clerk asked if there was a problem with the room he had and Michael replied, there had been a quarrel and his friend wanted to be alone. The desk clerk smiled knowingly and stated, "Unfortunately, there are no more rooms; we are full this evening."
Michael: Is it alright if I stay in the lobby - I want to make sure my friend is okay and doesn't wander around Venice alone.
The clerk smiled understanding, "Yes sir that would be fine for one night - but there is one more small item." He reached under the counter and pulled out a photograph. "The police were here earlier and left this picture - now I'm not certain but it does bear a close resemblance to you sir."

Michael took the photograph, glancing at it and then handed it back. As he did this, he also slid several large denomination bills across the counter.
M: Did they say why they were looking for this man?
Clerk: No, only that he was wanted across Europe. Ah, sir I hope there will not be a problem with you wanting to remain in the lobby overnight.
M: No problem and I assure you, if that man in the picture does resemble me, it is entirely a coincidence.
Clerk: Certainly sir.
With that Michael left and went to sit in a cafe across from the pensione. He thought, "How could the police have tracked him? He better not even wait in the lobby overnight. As soon as he knew Carmana's sister had come for her, he would leave. After a couple of hours had passed, a waiter at the cafe told Michael they were closing so he got up and walked the narrow walkway along the canal near the pensione, always watching the entrance.



He could not know what Carmana might do - he must make sure no harm came to her because of his actions. He returned to the now closed cafe and huddled in a corner of the building; the damp night air closed in. He took some bread and cheese from his pack and nibbled on it. He drank from a bottle of water and continued to watch the entrance of the pensione. Soon he drifted off to sleep but awoke a few hours later with the chiming of church bells. The cafe was beginning to open as Michael returned to sit at an outdoor table; the waiter brought him a steaming coffee.

Suddenly he spotted Carmana's sister entering the pensione. He remained seated at the cafe and within a half-hour, Carmana and her sister came out of the pensione. Michael watched as they boarded a boat destined for the Stazione S. Lucia and a train that would take them out of Venice.

Michael took another boat back to the parking area where he had left his motorcycle. Once there, he tied on his pack, and took out his maps. He would change his travel plans; it was too dangerous to go south to Rome, he must leave Italy and travel through the former Yugoslavia and then to Greece. By traveling in the former war-torn Yugoslavia, there would be less likelihood of detection. He studied his map; the border crossing at Trieste was out - he would attempt to find a boat at either Bibione or Grado to take him to the peninsula of Istra on the Croatian coast. He got on the bike and headed east out of Venice.

Nikita awoke the next moring after arriving in Ibiza with yet another bout of morning sickness. She returned to her bed from the bathroom on-suite, having thrown up repeatedly.


Gradually after two hours, she felt better. She rose, showered and went out onto the main patio where a light breakfast was served. She looked at the food and told the staff to just leave it but please bring a coffee with hot milk.. Current newspapers lay on the table and as she picked up the British copies, Walter came out all excited. "Morning Sugar, how you doing this wonderful morning?"
Nikita: Morning Walter .....well I ......



Walter: Sugar, you won't believe the set-up Helmet has here. The state of the art surveillance systems - the greatest toys - amazing counter-espionage, anti-terrorist fighting toys - way superior to Section's!
N: Toys?
W: Well they're like toys to me! (he laughs) And the two people working here - the ones I'll be working with - great people - Hans and Winifred. Well, Win has had a bad rap with Interpol - she's ......
N: Yes.
W: Her and I have kind of hit it off.
N: (smiling) Glad to see you're fitting in Walter.
W: What! (he grins) Well, yeh, thanks Sugar.
N: Here - you better eat some of this breakfast.
Nikita picks up the British newspaper as Walter begins eating the breakfast. "Yeh, sure, I'll just have a quick bite then better get back to work."
Nikita scans the newspaper and begins reading an article about Roy Dupuis who has been picked up and charged as an international terrorist.



N: Oh my God! Look at this article. This is that Canadian actor, the one who looks so much like Michael, he's been charged as a terrorist, but he told me he was an actor. There's a picture of him too.
Walter took the paper, "Wow Sugar, he does look like Michael and they've charged him as a terrorist."
Just then Helmet came out to the patio; Nikita hands him the paper, "Remember I was telling you about that Canadian actor who looked like Michael, he's been arrested in London - the CIA have him - they think he's a terrorist.

Helmet took the newspaper from Nikita and studied it. "Interesting - there is certainly a resemblance. I'll have my sources see what they can find out. (He turns to Nikita and smiles) And how are you this morning Nikita? And you Walter?"
Walter is already starting to leave and gulps down his coffee, "Oh, great - thanks - I'm just heading back to your lab - you have an incredible operation here - and thanks for letting me help out."
Helmet: Your expertise will aid us considerably - glad you find the operation suitable.
Walter: Suitable - it's fantastic - look - talk to you later, I've got to get back and run some tests with Hans and Winifred.
Walter leaves and Nikita starts laughing, "Walter thinks he's died and gone to heaven - he says your operation is superior to Sections'."
H: Walter will be a great aid to all our work but you haven't answered me - how are you feeling?
N: Are you reading my mind or did you happen to hear me this morning?
H: Were you sick again?
N: It's just morning sickness - some women get it - some don't - I'm just unlucky to be one that does.


Helmet: When were you last to a doctor?
N: Well back at Section when I discovered I was pregnant.
H: I want you to see my doctor and he will probably want you to see a gynecologist.
N: Helmet, there's no need - it's just a little morning sickness.
Nikita starts to get up but doubles over in pain. She clutches her abdomen as Helmet grabs her before she falls. "Nikita are you alright! Here sit down!"
N: I'm fine ....it's okay ...I just had a shooting pain for a minute.
H: (reaching into his jacket and pulling out a cell phone) I'm having my doctor come over here immediately.
N: There's no need. (she tries to laugh) Probably too many years working for Section and getting beat-up. Those punches in the abdomen over the years haven't helped the baby factory.

Helmet: Fine, make a joke but I'm having the doctor examine you today. (He steps away and speaks into the cell phone) Yes, this afternoon will be fine - see you then.
He goes to Nikita, kneels before her and puts his arms around her. "The doctor will be here at 2 pm, he will examine you and if he feels tests are warranted, you will go with him to the clinic. And don't argue with me - you must look after yourself. (He touches her abdomen gently) And the baby.
N: Helmet I .......
H: No arguments - okay.
N: (She smiles) Yes.

Nikita returned to her bedroom and rested until the doctor arrived. He performed a standard procedure and asked about her medical history. She neglected to mention the many times she had been wounded and injuried in the line of work. He asked how many months pregnant she was and when she replied three, he looked puzzled.
Doctor: You are certain.
N: Yes, that's what the doctor told me at Sec.....at the clinic. Why?

Doctor: I would like you to come for some tests - just routine - an ultrasound and a few other tests.
N: Is there something wrong?
D: No, no. I want to confirm your due date and determine what might have caused the sharp abdominal pain.
N: Do you think the baby is ....alright?
D: I'm sure everything is fine but the tests will confirm that. Can you come in tomorrow morning?
N: Mornings aren't the best for me - I'm usually sick, you know - morning sickness.
D: Then have Mr. Volker bring you when you feel up to it. I'll see you tomorrow.
The doctor left the room and Helmet entered. "Well, what did he say?"
N: He wants me in for tests tomorrow.
H: (going to her and holding her) It's standard procedure, you should have had it done in London.
N: I know. This is a new experience for me. (She begins to cry) Helmet, thank you for doing this for me - I just don't seem to have the strength or courage to try .....


Helmet: (stroking her head) I will look after you Nikita, I will be your strength. (He lifts her face and kisses her gently and smiles) It's probably all those hormones running amuck. Now - do you want to rest or what?
N: Maybe I'll try and sleep a little.
Helmet kisses her again and she climbs back into the bed. He wraps the duvee around her then leaves the bedroom.
After Helmet leaves, Nikita gets up from the bed and walks over to her luggage which is stored in a closet. She pulls it out, and removes a photograph of Michael.

She touches the image of Michael on his mouth, his eyes and then holds it to her breast, then, slowly lowers the cold glass frame to her abdomen and unborn child.
Michael had no trouble hiring a boat to take him from Italy to Piran on the Istra peninsula of what was now Croatia. The U.S. dollars in large quantities bought a boat ride and silence from the men who transported him. He drove his motorcycle off the barge-like tug and made his way to Rijeka and headed down the Adriatic coast.

The men who he hired the boat from gave him information on where he could purchase firearms, a PDA or any other communication devices he might want. Many items of contra-ban were now available since the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. The contact for purchasing these items was in Split.



Michael drove his bike down the coastline, enjoying the sea air and with each kilometer, the guilt of what he may have done to Carmana, left his mind. He had been wrong in assuming traveling with her would act as a cover from who even was hunting him. He pulled the bike to the side of the highway outside of Split and went to sit on a rocky outcrop.

He pulled out bread, cheese and water; he once again stared out to the sea. "This coastline is beautiful - not overcrowded or exploited by tourism," he thought. "Nikita would have loved this coast; she would love to sail the azure Adriatic." Images of their time together aboard the boat off the French Riviera drifted into his mind.


He could taste her lips, feel her hair; he could smell the intoxicating perfume of her skin.
He stood up quickly, shook his head over and over; the shooting headache had returned. Michael staggered backwards and fell to the ground; he twisted over and threw up repeatedly. He grabbed for the bottle of water and began to drink thirstily. The dizziness and nausea subsided eventually but the headache remained. He gathered up his belongings, got on the bike and made his way into Split.

Michael dialed a number given him by the boatmen and sat at an outdoor cafe waiting to be contacted. He had ordered some food, hoping the nourishment would drive away the illness he was experiencing. Soon an Audi pulled up in front of the cafe and two men walked up to him.



They spoke in German; Michael replied and a discreet transfer of money was made for a small firearm, a high-powered PDA and false identity papers. Michael quickly left the cafe after the transaction was made. He rode his bike out of Split but not before purchasing some strong painkiller tablets. He swallowed only one tablet, concerned more would make him too drowsy to drive. He calculated the distance to Dubrovnik where he would spend the night in a discreet hotel - there he would take more of the painkillers in hope of alleviating the growing headache.
As he approached Dubrovnik, he marveled at the architecture and the history of the area. The one pain tablet had begun to dull the headache. Michael found a small hotel, left his bike secure in the hotel courtyard and made his way to his room. Once inside, he threw his belongings on the bed, took two more tablets and walked to the small patio which overlooked the Adriatic sea. He sat down and tried to eat the small salad and rolls he had purchased. He opened a bottle of red wine, realizing he should probably not be consuming alcohol with the drugs but he needed to rest: to forget: to lose himself. Soon he drifted off to sleep; the sound of the sea washing ashore;and the call of gulls along the shoreline.

The silver Mercedes sped along the Ibiza coastline. Helmet reached over and inserted a CD into the stereo, the voice of Sarah McLachlan's music echoed throughout the car. Helmet looked over at Nikita who sat in silence.

Helmet: You are beginning to worry me Nikita. Why won't you tell me what the doctor said to you. Was there something in the tests?
Nikita: No the tests were fine.
H: I know it may not be my business or place to ask - but I'm worried - is something wrong?
Nikita looked over at Helmet and place her hand on his. "You are too good to me, but really everything is okay. The doctor just suggested I may want to rest more, this being my first pregnancy."
H: What about the abdominal pains?
N: He couldn't find any reason for them. (She smiles) Like I told you - all the punches I've taken for Section.
H: You didn't tell the doctor about your role in Section.
N: No way, no point in bringing up un-necessary inquiries.
H: You're right there - the doctor thinks I'm in the electronic business.
N: (Looking out at the passing coastline) I wonder what it would be like to have a normal life - one without lies and deceit.
H: We'll never know that life Nikita.
N: Can we stop and walk on the beach?
H: Certainly, there's a beautiful spot a few kilometers ahead.

Michael began to dream - again - water, sea - Nikita. She reached out to him. He tried to reach out to grab her - but she kept floating away. He slipped down off the chair on the patio and awoke. Michael rose and went to lie on the bed and was soon drifting off once more into a dream. But this time when Nikita appeared he saw her with a man.



He could not make out the face of the man but Nikita was kissing him passionately. Michael twisted on the bed trying to remove the image but the man and Nikita only became more passionate and soon were making love. Michael yelled out in his dream, "No, no Nikita!" His arms struck out at the image of the lovers - they floated away. His tormented dream continued; next - explosions happened all around him - he ducked for cover; he felt blood. Michael twisted violently on the bed, breathing deeply. He then found himself walking into a beautiful house. The front door was open, he walked in, went up a winding staircase, into a large bedroom. The bed was a four poster with white muslin draped around all four sides. A window to the sea was open and a breeze blew the muslin open on one side. Michael saw two lovers on the bed: they twisted and moaned in the passion of lovemaking. The woman turned over to reveal her face ...........

..........it was Nikita. The man called her name out, over and over. He cried out how much he loved her and would do anything for her. She replied that she loved him too and would remain by his side. Their lovemaking became more and more passionate: Michael wanted to destroy the man, to pull them apart; to stop their lovemaking but - he could not move. It was as if his feet had become part of the floor.



The lovers screamed out as their mutual climax coursed through their bodies. They lay, bathed in the tingle of lovemaking fulfilled. The man stroked her hair back from her face; he once again proclaimed his love for her and it made no difference to him that she carried another man's child - he loved her and would protect both the unborn child and her forever. Michael cried out again. "Nikita!! ...........Kitaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

Helmet's Mercedes pulled onto a shoulder of the road and Nikita and him got out and walked down to the beach.

They walked in silence: Helmet put his arm around Nikita and stole glances at her as the wind blew her hair over his arm and hand. He dared not tell her his true feelings; he cared so deeply for her but knew she loved another. If only this beautiful woman loved him as she did Michael. How long would she remain with him in an unending search for a dead man. The intel Helmet had gathered pointed only to one fact - Michael had died in a suicide bombing in Afganistan and yet Nikita clung to the belief he was still alive. And the fact she was carrying Michael's child, only made her more determined to find him.
Nikita broke the silence by breaking away from his hold on her. She ran ahead and spun around in the sand; she was smiling and beckoned to Helmet to chase her. He grinned, 'this was the wonderful, playful Nikita he remembered.'
He ran after her as she darted behind some rocks. Helmet pursued her, jumping up on the rocks and standing over her.
Helmet: Some operative you are, I could find you in a second.
Nik: Maybe I wanted you to find me.
They stood together looking out at the pounding surf.

Helmet: What do you mean, you wanted me to find you?
Nik: Come on let's go back to the villa

There was suddenly loud banging at the door to Michael's room. It was the hotel manager wondering if he was alright. Michael woke, staggering to the door.

"Yes, yes....I was trying to sleep....was dreaming...I'm fine."
Michael torn the rest of his clothes from his body and walked out to the patio. The cool night air washed over his sweat drenched body. He braced himself against the railing and breathed deeply. Tears crept from his eyes, "Would he, could he ever forget her - and their unborn child. Why had the child been taken also - it was terrible she had been taken - but the child - the child he had so desperately wanted. He could hardly believe it when she had told him she was pregnant. He was shocked; he always thought she had suffered Section's sterilization process. She had deceived Section and then they had made love so many times but then she had told him the incredible news. A baby - a child - he had so wanted another child after losing Adam."

Michael shook his head. "What, a child named Adam!" He had suddenly remembered something from his past. He had a child named Adam. He struggled to recall more but to no avail.
Michael returned to the bed, lay down and waited for sleep, half afraid of the dreams that would come with it. As daylight crept over the horizon on the Adriatic sea, Michael drifted into a deep sleep - no dreams ravaged his unconscious state. All memories floated away.

The Mercedes pulled into the driveway. Nikita and Helmet entered the villa and went into the lounge. They sat in silence until the staff brought them some food; wine for Helmet and a juice for Nikita.
Nikita: (smiling) I'm going to miss having wine but the doctor said to cut out alcohol.


Helmet: (Kissing her hand) The juice is better for you.
Nik: So you say - I'll still miss the wine.
Nikita got up from the leather chair and walked to Helmet.
N: Ah, there's something the doctor told me that I think you should know.
H: What? You said everything was okay, are you.......
N: (stroking his face) Don't worry....everything is....well, the fact of the matter is........



Helmet: Nikita! Stop teasing - what is it?
Nik: I'm going to have twins. I'm pregnant with twins.
H: What?
N: A boy and a girl.
H: Oh, my God!
N: I'll probably be big as a house - a huge whale! (She laughs)
H: Never.
N: My father would say it serves me right - I've got to pay my dues.
H: What do you mean?
N: My father didn't want Michael and I to be together, he lied to us about having a life outside of Section. And like I told you before, that's why Michael went on a mission to Afganistan - I think my father set him up for abeyance - but Michael fooled him - he didn't die.
Helmet put his arms around Nikita, "Nikita - how can you know this?"

 Nikita: I feel this in my soul and know it's true. Michael is out there somewhere. But my father would laugh if he knew I was pregnant with twins. He would say I was being punished for all the times Michael and I made love.



Helmet got up and poured himself more wine. It was difficult listening to Nikita talk about Michael, especially about their making love.
Helmet: Your father knows about the pregnancy?
Nik: Yes, I even told him how I avoided Section's sterilization program. I don't think he ever agreed with the program anyway.

Helmet: But why would he want Michael killed, if he knew he was the father of your child - oh, sorry - children.
N: My father wants me to run Section and if having a child was going to make me happy, that was fine with him.
H: I've heard many things about your father at Center - a very powerful man. He must be trying to locate you.
N: He is - but he is remaining in the shadows waiting for me to give up my search. He believes I will return eventually.
H: And will you?
N: Never.
H: Ah, Nikita.....this is difficult for me to say.....but....what if we can't find Michael?



N: (putting her arms around Helmet and kissing him) You will find him for me - after all - you are the best agent in the world!
H: You give me too much credit. I only hope I can fulfill your dreams.

Michael awoke the next morning and began packing his belongings into his pack. He still had the headache and had swallowed two painkillers with water. As he stuffed his clothing into the pack, a small leather portfolio fell out. Michael picked it up - he had forgotten having this and as he opened the pouch and shuffled through the false passports and documents, a photograph slipped out.



It was a playful shot of Nikita he had taken when they had some downtime and spent a week in a private lodge in the Canadian Rockies. He smiled at the image of Nikita - how playful she had been, always teasing him to 'lighten up'. She had been playful in their lovemaking also.
He suddently recalled his dream of Nikita with another man and thought, "If only she were alive - to be with another man". Her valentine op missions, although few, had been particularly hard on him - the thought of men touching her, having her - making love - no having sex with her, sickened him.
He grabbed his pack, stuffing in the remainder of his gear, checked the room and left. He paid for the room, stored his pack on the motorcycle and drove out of Dubrovnik, heading southeast towards the Greek border.

Once Michael left Dubrovnik, he headed south and slipped across the border into Albania.



He felt it would be easier to get into Greece than travel through the former republic of Macedonia. His intel picked up on the PDA laptop had shown the Macedonian population were having bitter disputes with the Greek government over lands bordering on the northern Greek border. These disputes went back centuries.
The roads through Albania were in disrepair and the population were struggling to make ends meet. Michael had determined through background intel that Albania had ended 44 years of xenophobic communist rule in 1990 and established a multiparty democracy. The transition had proved difficult and with the outbreak of war in the former Yugoslavi, fighting had been frequent along their borders.
He road the motocycle through the capital of Tirane and headed for a non-descript border crossing into Greece.



He peered through his binoculars at the border. It would close in one hour; he wuld go then, when weary border guards were wanting to head home and not take time with extra questions.

Dusk was settling on the countryside as Michael drove the bike up to the crossing.



A disinterested Greek customs official took his false passport and travel documents and without looking at them, placed the official entrance stamp on a page. He handed the documents back to Michael and motioned him into Greece.
As Michael made he way to Thessaloniki on the eastern Aegean Sea, he had to pull the bike over to a rest stop and take more of the painkillers. The ravaging headache was becoming worse and each time this happened, he would become nauseous and vomit. Why was this happening? And even more - why was he continuing this journey back to Afganistan? Was it because Afganistan was the last place he had been with Nikita? Or was there a cause to fight for? His head pounded as he forced himself to answer the questions.

It was late afternoon as Michael drove through the streets of Thessaloniki.


He stopped at a roadside cafe and entered. Once again, Michael ordered food that he tried to eat but soon felt nauseous. He sipped wine; at least he could keep that down. He asked the waiter to suggest a hotel nearby then headed to the Kosmopolit Hotel on Ermou Street. Once in his room, he lay down and picked up a brochure explaining where the name Thessaloniki came from: the father of Alexander the Great had a daughter whom he named Thessaloniki to commemorate his victory over Thessaly - combining 'Thessaly' with 'Niki', the Greek word for victory.
"Humm", Michael thought, "an appropriate parallel with the head of Center and his daughter Nikita. Her father had indeed won a victory over them - he had kept Nikita and Michael apart - forever."



He got up and went to the window overlooking the street: indeed, even this hotel had a bloody history. In the 1960's when the military dictatorship was in power in Greece, backed by the U.S. CIA, this hotel was the scene of a murder of a Greek pacifist leader - Gregory Lambrakis. The population mourned in silence, afraid of the dictatorship but for months after the murder, on walls all over Greece, there appeared the letter "Z" for zei - He Lives.
Michael remembered reading the book "Z" that had been banned for years. It was an interesting commentary on Greece - the seat of democracy - and dictatorship.
During his years in Section, Michael had remained apolitical - the causes of others were not his. He performed missions with the profile and plan determined - he never questioned the politics of the players. That did not stop him, however, from being a student of the historical anachronisms. He had been to Greece a few times on missions but was always just in and out of the country quickly once the mission was over. Maybe he would take more time now and try to enjoy the country's beauty. Travel on the motorcycle only aggravated his headache.
The next morning after taking more painkillers, he felt somewhat better; he thought he would try to eat something.



As he walked toward an outdoor cafe, he spotted a blonde woman. He did not understand why, but he followed her. Michael could not see her face but was compelled to follow her. She had long blonde hair, was tall and statuesque. The woman was exquisitely dressed in a black leather skirt and top; a stylish hat adorned her head.
Michael stood outside a boutique and watched the woman inside. She was trying on gloves and inspecting a handbag. Soon she came out and headed down the street; Michael following at a discreet distance. Suddenly he felt dizzy and began staggering; he shook his head and images of Nikita floated before him.



He continued to follow the woman, increasing his pace. Soon he was directly behind her; he reached out and grabbed her arm. "Nikita!", he shouted. The woman whirled around and swung her handbag at Michael. "What do you think you are doing! Get away from me!" She began screaming and soon people were attempting to grab hold of Michael. "Get the police - this man tried to molest me!" Michael wheeled around, staggering; he was so dizzy he felt himself beginning to fall over. The police had arrived and started to handcuff him. Michael was too weak to fight them and was placed in a police car. The woman screamed at him that she would press charges for sexual assault.

The police car drove away with Michael half conscious in the backseat. As they approached the police station, Michael came around and began kicking out the windows of the police car. He leapt out with the police in pursuit. His hands were still handcuffed but as the officers seized him, Michael swung out, striking one officer and kicking another. Soon plainclothed officers were running from the police station to help. They quickly disabled him and as he fell to the ground semi-conscious, they removed the handcuffs and placed a straightjacket on him.


Using strong smelling salts on him, he revived consciousness and was led into the station. The officers placed Michael in a holding cell. Night turned into day as Michael drifted in and out of consciousness.

Three days past and still the police could not talk to Michael. When he was conscious; he would stare into nothingness.
After two more days with the officers trying to force food and water into Michael, they brought in a woman doctor. Her name was Dr. Katerina Meracles. In addition to being a medical doctor, she was also a psychiatrist.
As she entered the holding cell, she motioned to one of the guards to get her a basin of water, a towel and also some clean clothes.



Michael lay motionless on a small bed. Soon she was wiping his face with the damp towel. The guard helped her remove Michael's soiled clothing and placed clean ones on him. She questioned the guard why this had not taken place before; the guard replied the man had been too violent. The guard attempted to put a shirt on Michael but he began to struggle; so the doctor motioned the guard to stop. Katerina Meracles then told the guard to leave and when he refused she ordered him to. The guard shook his head stating he would be in the next room.
Michael stared up at Katerina; she continued to stroke his face with the damp towel. She rolled Michael over and placed clean bedding on the small bed. Then she spoke softly to him. "I am here to help you - I think you are very sick. Will you try and talk to me - I speak many languages, French, German, English."



Michael continued to just stare at the woman, acknowledging nothing. He was unaware of his surroundings; only that there was a beautiful, older woman attending to him. Katerina spent an hour in the holding cell with Michael but he never spoke. She got up and called for the guard, then walked into the police captain's office.
Captain: Well, what do you think?
Katerina: He is suffering from blackouts and has been hallucinating. He needs to be taken to the hospital.
C: We have a woman who is pressing charges - he was molesting her.
K: I read the report - and the comments from passerbys. He was calling out a name - like he thought she was someone he knew.
C: Yes, true but she is still filing a complaint.
K: Very well but he needs to be taken to the hospital - now!
C: Under your directions but he is being placed under your care and responsibility.
K: Yes, fine. Now get him ready and no straightjacket.
C: He is a fighter....that's how he came in and.....
K: He can't even move, he will go out on a stretcher. I'm calling for a transfer ambulance.

Dr. Meracles sat with Michael in the ambulance as they drove into the entrance of the hospital. Once inside Michael was placed in a special ward on the direction of the doctor. Michael lay on the hospital bed in a dazed state; responding to nothing. He was being fed by intravenous feeding and after two days passed, began to respond to the nourishment.



Dr. Meracles sat by his side; she spoke softly, "Do you remember your name?" Michael looked at her intently and opened his mouth, "My name?"
Katerina: (smiling and stroking his cheek) Yes, would you like to tell me what your name is?
Michael: I think....I...maybe it's (he paused) ..Michael.
K: Your name is Michael?
M: Yes.
K: Well Michael, you have been very ill.
M: Where am I?
K: A hospital...In Saloniki, Greece. I"m a doctor here to help you.
M: Why?
K: (smiling) That's what I do.
M: Why help me - you don't know me. What's happened to me?
K: A doctor helps people Michael and as to what happened to you - I don't know - you've been in and out of consciousness for many days. There was an incident on the street with a woman - do you remember that?
M: No.
K: Is there anything you can remember that you would like to tell me?



M: Headaches - I have headaches.
K: Do you have a headache now?
M: Yes.
K: I'm going to order a catscan to have a look inside your head and then I will prescribe something for the pain. But right now I don't want to give you drugs that might harm your condition.
M: Where am I?
K: I told you - Saloniki, Greece - a hospital.
M: Oh.
At that moment Dr. Meracles pager went off; she checked it and spoke softly to Michael, "I have to go for awhile but will be back to check on you later."
Michael stared at her blankly.
She went back to her office and picked up the telephone, "Yes Nikos, you wanted to talk to me."

Dr. Nikos Agilo, the head of medical staff of Salonika Hellas Hospital spoke authoritatively to Katerina Meracles, "Come to my office now."
Dr. Meracles had recently been transferred from Athens and taken up the post of resident practitioner and psychiatrist at Salonika Hospital. She had requested the transfer after her husband of twenty-five years had decided to leave her for a young university student. Katerina had blamed herself for the breakup of their marriage, feeling she spent too much time at her work and not encouraging her husband with his business pursuits. Her husband had an extremely successful shipping business that required him to travel alot. The divorce settlement had been a villa for Katerina on the island of Mykonos.



She loved the island but her work prohibited visiting the villa except for brief and infrequent days off. Although Katerina would turn 50 years old in a few months, she looked to be only in her late thirties. She had striking facial features and light auburn hair that ran down her back in curls. Her figure was athletic and she carried herself like a model. Katerina had met and married her husband when they were both at university. He was studying business commerce and she medicine. He had always joked that he really didn't need to go to university as his family's wealth in the shipping business would be there when he needed it.



She had fallen for him instantly and married quickly. They had both decided children were not a priority in their lives.
Katerina entered Dr. Agilo's office and sat. "What was it you wanted - I was with a patient."
Dr. Agilo: Yes, I was wondering about that patient - his name is not known and the police had him. Why did you want him brought here?
K: He is suffering from hallucinations and blackouts, he shouldn't be kept in a jail cell.
A: Always looking out for the helpless Katerina, I would have thought you might have gotten a little tougher.
K: What are you talking about - the man needs help.
A: You were the same years ago at the university - always looking out for the downtrodden. Look, I want a quick diagnosis on this man then get him out of here.
K: What! I don't understand.
A: The police called, apparently the Americans want him.
K: The Americans - who....
A: The CIA.
K: No, never - what on earth.......
Agilo shoved a photo of Michael at Katerina.



Agilo: Deal with him quickly and let's get him released. I don't want any political controversy happening.
K: He's a patient - like anyone else.
A: Uhhhh, are you letting your heart dictate your feelings?
K: I have no idea what you are talking about.
A: He's a good looking man Katerina, let's not have that influencing your actions.
K: I resent your insinuations! I'm his doctor!
A: You are spending an inordinate amount of time with him. Why?
K: I'm trying for find out what's wrong with him!
A: Deal with him quickly and discharge him!


Katerina got up and quickly left the office. She returned to the ward where Michael was. Upon arriving there, nurses and orderlies were racing about. "What's happened!" shouted Katerina.
An orderly stopped briefly, "The patient from the jail cells, he escaped from the hospital - just got up and walked out!"
Katerian walked to a window overlooking the hospital courtyard and looked off towards the city. "Where are you Michael? You know don't you - that people are hunting you."



She return to her office and sat at her desk. "Agilo was correct about one thing. She was letting her feelings get in the way of her medicine. Why was this man causing her to act the way she had? What was it about him? (she smiled to herself) Yes, he was very handsome, rugged with a very athletic body. Oh my God, what am I thinking. I haven't had these thoughts since I was a student!"
Three days passed: Michael was still roarming the streets of Salonikia, hiding in dark corners and sneaking food from the back of restaurants. He was still dazed and suffering short blackouts. On the night of the fourth day, he slipped into a rear entrance of a hotel. Once inside he made his way to a staffroom located on the second floor. He sat in a corner of the room; he grabbed a bottle of water and drank. Just then a woman entered; she smiled and spoke in Greek. Michael shook his head and whispered, "I'm sorry, I don't speak your language." She stared intently at Michael, "You speak English."



"Yes," he replied. She walked up to him. "Do you want to try some of this - it's good weed." The woman handed Michael a joint of marijuana; he took it and inhaled deeply.
Woman: My name is Joannina - how long have you worked here - I haven't seen you before?
Michael: Yes, well - I'm new.
Joannina smiled at Michael. "You know, my job here really sucks but meeting good looking men like you makes it better. Where are you from?"
M: From?
J: What country?
M: Different countries.
J: What's your name?
M: Michael.
J: Say Michael - seeing you and I are on a break, do you want to....you know...get it on?
M: What - I don't know - I'm kind of messed up....
J: Yeh, looks like you've been sleeping on the streets or something. (She laughs) I don't care. Look, I've got condoms and I'm...well you turn me on.
Suddenly Joannina leapt at Michael. She began ripping is clothes off. He tried to fight her back, but she had taken him by surprise. He grabbed a towel and wrapped it around himself. She leaped on him again.



When Michael didn't reciprocate with her advances, she yelled at him, "What the hell's your problem - can't you get it up!"
Michael pushed her away. "I can't do this - I don't have sex with women I don't know!"
J: Oh, I see - just upscale women huh! Well piss off then - you just can't get it up! All looks and no power below! Get the hell out of here!
Michael scooped up his clothes and quickly put what remained of them on; he raced out of the hotel.
On the fifth day, Michael had managed to stay at a church hostel and was able to clean himself up.



As he walked the streets in daylight, an off-duty constable recalled viewing a wanted picture and spotted Michael. He called in immediately. Soon half a dozen officers descended on Michael and dragged him off to the police station. When Katerina Meracles received the call he had been apprehended, she once again had Michael brought to the hospital. Only this time he was held in restraints on the bed, an armed guard posted outside the room. Katerina told the other medical staff to leave the room. She leaned over Michael, looking into his grey/green eyes. His eyes held her captive. "Michael the authorities were here looking for you - I mean the CIA from America. They said you were a terrorist. They will be coming back for you tomorrow. Please talk to me."

Michael stared intently at Katerina, sensing her compassion. He opened his mouth to speak but started coughing. Katerina lifted him gently by the shoulders and gave him some water.



Michael looked helplessly at her, "I am no terrorist - I did work for a government once - an agent - but no more. Please, please - you must help me!"
Katerina: I don't know what I can do.
M: Help me escape again.
K: You can't hide - there is no place they will not find you.
M: Please......
Katerina looked about the room frantically, then leaned over Michael. "I will try."
Michael whispered, "please undo the restraints."
Katerina undid the leather restraints on Michael's hands. As soon as he was free, he reached over and took her face in his hands; he stroked her cheeks and kissed her hands.



She was startled and excited at the same time; this man was stirring feelings she had not known before. She whispered, "wait quietly, I will be back in a few minutes." Katerina returned to her office and phoned Dr. Agilo at his home. "Nikos, yes it's Katerina, I've decided to take that time off you suggested before the conference - you know to prepare. What - no nothing important - the police still haven't found him - I guess he's left the country or something. You were correct - we don't want any trouble from the authorities or the American government - we are best rid of him. Yes, I'll see you in Athens in two weeks. Bye."
Katerina went to the main reception and said she was leaving for the evening; the on-duty nurse said good night. Katerina returned quickly to Michael's room. She told the guard at the door to take a break, he smiled looking relieved, and left. Michael was sitting on the bed. She had brought him some clothes and he got dressed quickly; over his clothes he put on a white robe and head cover. They left the room and walked to a rear exit and disappeared into the night. Once in the doctor's parking lot, Katerina slid into her Audi with Michael getting in beside her.



He looked at her, "where will we go?"
K: We will go to my home on Mykonos.
M: Why are you doing this for me - I am a stranger to you?
K: I don't know why. I just know I must.
The Audi raced through the night, heading south towards Athens. On the outskirts of the city Katerina took a road leading to the ferry for N. Andros island. From there they would have to take another ferry to the island of Mykonos, and her home.

The drive through the night had been a tiring one; Michael turned to Katerina and asked her if he should drive. She replied saying even though she was tired, it was too dangerous for him to attempt because of his condition. Once they were aboard the ferry for Andros Island, Katerina pushed the electronic seat into a reclining position and told Michael to do likewise - they should get some sleep. Katerina drifted into a troubled sleep; Michael however, could not sleep and got out of the car, walking to the front of the ferry. He peered into the water as it broke against the bow; the night was clear with many stars overhead. His thoughts were confused and troubled.



What was happening to him; who was this woman helping him and why? He recalled asking for her help but only out of desperation. She had said they were travelling to her home on an island called Mykonos - it must be another of the Greek islands. As Michael stared at the water crashing against the ferry's bow, he felt a deep inner cold throughout his body, yet his head was feverish. Why was he continuing this never ending journey - why not end it - here - now. Simply jump from the boat - let the sea end his journey. As he began ascending the boat's railing, a hand touched him gently, pulling him back; a quiet voice appeared in the night. "No Michael - that's not the answer - it never is. You must live; you have reasons to live."



Michael turned to face Katerina, "I have no reason to live."
Katerina: Come back to the car, you are feverish. You must try and sleep; I have some herbal tea that will help.
Michael followed her to the car, got in and reclined in the passenger seat. "Why are you helping me - I don't want your help."
K: You wanted me to help you at the hospital. Why do you suddenly feel you want no help now?
M: My reasons for living died many months ago.
K: Please don't try to talk - you need rest.
Michael sipped the tea; Katerina stroked his face and held his hand. After awhile Michael drifted off to sleep.

NEXT