Ch 5

.

.

"Ok," Sophie began, after several hours of deciphering the mystery ledger, "I think I have some of this figured out."

The rest of the team reassembled in the room around her, waiting. Sophie stood, stretching out the kinks in her back as she made her way to stand by Nate.

She opened the journal to display the neatly printed ledger to the group.

"As far as I can tell, the letters on the left hand side are grade levels and initials. For example, this one here, 2NJ, would mean something like Natalie Jones, 2nd grade. As it happens, there was a young girl with a clear bracelet called Natalie in the classroom I was in."

Nate nodded, "And what about the right hand side?"

Sophie worried her lip, "That's where I'm running into the most trouble. Some of the names are attached to seemingly random initials. But several of the names are linked to a H.B. Whomever that is."

"What's that column in the middle?" Hardison cut in, moving up to get a better look.

Sophie shrugged, "Seems to be some sort of money range. Probably whatever amount of blackmail or skimming they're up to."

"No," Eliot interrupts, with a dark expression on his face, "It's not blackmail."

The others turn to him, waiting in the sudden wary silence.

"Sophie's right about it being a range, but it's not blackmail. It's the range of haggling allowed," he continued, "And H.B isn't just one person, it means 'highest bidder."

The look on Hardison's face would have been comical in any other situation.

"They're... selling the kids?" Hardison asked, appalled, "How hasn't anybody caught them yet? Why hasn't anybody reported missing children?"

"They're not selling the kids, themselves," Parker broke in, her voice at a scary level of calm, "They're selling sex."

Sophie gasped, unable to help herself.

Parker and Eliot shared a quick glance, seeing something the others couldn't in each others eyes, before Parker spoke again.

"The kids get knocked out and transported in blindfolds. And when it's... when they're... after, they get brought back after, like nothing's happened. Half the time they think it's a nightmare, until the pain doesn't go away when they wake up."

Eliot moved to stand by Parker, pressing his side into hers slightly, silently, as she continued.

"I used to see it," Parker shrugged, as if it was nothing more than a movie she'd seen once, "Never saw it outside of the foster system though."

"And," Nate interrupted, advancing to Parker with an almost predatory gaze, "You just happened to stumble across a school that does this?"

"Nate!" Sophie scolded him, "What are you trying to say?"

"No," Parker mumbled under breath, looking at the floor.

Hardison moved to stand on her other side, giving her hand a small squeeze before glaring at Nate, silently daring him to upset her again.

Nate softened his expression, moving to stand in front of Parker, ignoring her two makeshift bodyguards.

"No," he urged, "No, it wasn't random, right? Just... unconscious."

Parker looked up and Nate was surprised to see no tears in her hazel eyes, only anger and determination.

"No," she agreed, "I just didn't realize it. But I remember now. I remember him."

"Who do you remember, Parker?" Sophie asked, gently.

"The headmaster."

.

.

.

"Albert Minkerton III" Hardison announced, a few minutes later, as he pulled up all the info he could find on the headmaster.

"Big time hot shot in the education system, both here and in the U.K. Inherited his fortune at twenty-one, was CEO of his own company by thirty. That was thirty years ago. Fast forward to now, Alby here is a 'model citizen' and 'philanthropist," dedicating hours of time and millions of dollars to children around the world," he paused, "Now excuse me while I choke on my own bile. Y'all go on and talk among yourselves."

Nate didn't even bother rolling his eyes at the other man before picking up the plan proposition.

"We're dealing with people with infinite amounts of money and resources, including which are lawyers that would keep any straight out inquiries tied up for years and years. So what we need is concrete proof. Because as of now, all we have is a pretty good hunch and some bad memories. We need enough evidence to make sure there is no way Minkerton can hide behind his lawyers."

"You're not proposing we..." Sophie trailed, looking ill just at the suggestion.

Nate nodded, "What else can we do?"

Sophie sighed, "Oh, Nate. And who, of us, do you suppose will be able to walk in and demand to buy a child?"

Nate considered them all carefully, before resting his gaze on Eliot.

"No," Eliot growled, "No way in hell. I'd kill the fuckers before I got anything useful. You can't send me into that."

"You've seen much worse," Nate argued, "You're our best shot. Plus, you can defend yourself if it gets dicey."

His protest died on his lips as Parker looked over at him, silently begging 'please.'

"Goddammit," Eliot sighed, "Fine. But I'm not promising I won't knock anyone out."

"I'd expect nothing less," Nate nearly smiled.

"How do we even find out where and when this goes down?" Parker began pacing, a bundle of antsy energy.

"I have an idea about that," Sophie tapped her nails on the journal, "The last page has a list of dates, the closest one being two days from now. This weekend."

"So we have a 'when,'" Hardison nodded, "But what's the where?"

"That's the question..." Nate mused aloud, "Hardison, what exactly did you say Minkerton was the CEO of?"

Hardison pressed a complicated pattern of buttons into his remote, pulling up the information.

"Oh," he said as the pieces slotted together, "Minkerton is CEO of Happy Nights Hotels. One of which is located over in..." the information on the screen scrolled dangerously fast, "Revere. The closest on by miles is in Revere, right off the parkway. Says here that it was closed last year for renovations, though."

"An abandoned hotel," Eliot muttered, "Original."

"We never said the bad guys were exceptionally smart," Nate commented wryly, "Or original."

Eliot nodded, "I'm still gonna punch the guy in the face. Just so you know."

Parker grinned, "And kick him in the balls too!"

Eliot just sighed.

.

.

Nate gave Eliot a once-over in the van as the hitter prepared to walk the half block to the hotel.

"Try not to get caught with this, this time," Nate smirked, tapping the button cam on Eliot's shirt.

Eliot smirked back, "Don't think I'll run into your wife this time, boss," the last word drawled out lazily.

"Ex wife," Sophie cut in from the passenger seat, pointedly, "Now can we focus on the matter at hand?"

"Yeah," Parker agreed, "I wanna see this guy hurt, soon."

"Just let me double check the equipment, mama," Hardison soothed, "And then Eliot can go beat up people all he wants."

"Glad I have your approval," Eliot's voice dripped with sarcasm. "By the way," he turned his attention to Nate, "Are you sure this I.D is gonna check out? I mean, they can't just be letting anyone stroll in."

Nate snorted, "You have a briefcase full of cash and a C.I.A level alias. You'll be fine."

"We're all set," Hardison interrupted Eliot's sure to be witty comeback, "Just remember to get as many people on camera as possible."

Eliot just glared and made his way out of the van doors.

.

.

Eliot walked through the giant double doors of the hotel, moving slowly to get as much in the camera shot as he could. He got two steps in before freezing on the spot.

"Shit," he muttered, ducking his head instinctively. But it was too late.

What it is? Nate's voice came across among the rest of the team's worried murmured.

"It's the secretary," Eliot replied quietly, "She's standing at the desk with Minkerton. There's no way she's not going to recognize me."

What's she doing there? Parker sounded genuinely confused. She warned Henry not to come back. Why would she be part of this?

Nate cut through again. Everybody, hush. Eliot, just go along as planned. She might recognize you, but your money is still green, and she's not the one in charge here.

"Fine," Eliot growled as he made his way to the concierge desk.

Evelyn stared blankly at him as he approached, asking for I.D in a monotone. Minkerton barely glanced at the little card, but took the briefcase happily.

"Right this way, Mr... Oh, welcome, Mr. Kennedy. I'm sure you'll find the perfect fit here."

Eliot just nodded curtly, not trusting himself to speak.

.

Minkerton led him down a long hallway and ushered him into a private room, occupied by six children. Three boys and three girls, all roughly ages 7-12.

Eliot turned to Minkerton, getting him in full view of the camera, and gave him a look that said 'now what?' and a sheepish smile.

"Ah, first time, my boy?" Minkerton clapped him on the back. Eliot only barely suppressed the urge to punch, repeatedly.

Eliot just nodded again, hoping his face portrayed shyness, not fury.

Minkerton gave him an exaggerated wink, "Well, you just have a look around and pick the one that tickles your fancy. Once you do, I'll escort you both to a private room."

"Can..." Eliot swallowed the lump of sickness in his throat, "Can I check them out first? Make sure they aren't all sickly?"

"Of course!" Minkerton laughed, "Go on, examine all you want. Healthy as horses, all of them."

How can evil sound so cheerful? Sophie's voice flitted through Eliot's ears over the comms.

Eliot gave no reaction, just made his way to the children, crouching before the youngest looking one, a girl maybe even younger than he originally thought. She might not have been more than five. He traced his fingers around her eyes, looking for any reaction. She just gazed back at him, foggy.

They're drugged. Eliot wondered briefly how Parker would know that, before remembering the button cam.

Making quick work, Eliot checked the other kids, noting they all shared the same glazed look.

"So?" Minkerton asked, all smiles.

Just get out of there, Eliot. Nate commanded. We have more than enough. Just tell him you changed your mind and get the hell out of there.

But Eliot couldn't. He took a step towards the children again, unsure of what to do. The littlest girl looked up, all blonde hair and big hazel eyes, and he just couldnt.

"Dammit, Parker," he growled softly into the comms.

"What was that?" Minkerton asked, starting to look wary.

"Her," Eliot responded quickly, pointing to the little blonde girl.

Minkerton clapped him on the shoulder again, "Good choice! She's a favorite around here! You won't be disappointed.

Eliot choked on air but held it together. Minkerton lifted the girl up by her waist and transferred her to Eliot's arms. She felt listless and featherlight, and he struggled not to cradle her protectively.

What the hell are you doing? Nate demanded, but Eliot ignored him and the others for the moment.

Minkerton led Eliot down another long hallway, and Eliot shifted the girl to one hip so she didn't block the camera. She simply rested her head lifelessly on his shoulder. They got on the elevator, going up, before walking down yet another long hallway.

"Here we are," Minkerton ushered Eliot into an empty bedroom, "Remember, two hours. I'll be back to collect the girl then."

Eliot nodded and clicked the door shut behind the headmaster.

"Cameras, Hardison," he demanded.

There aren't any in the bedrooms, man. Only the main lobby has a working cam, and I hacked into that ages ago. They can't see you right now.

Eliot sighed in relief and placed the girl on the bed, sitting her up against the headboard.

"Hey, darlin', stay with me, ok?" he brushed her hair out of her face, looking for some spark of life. But she just stared back, alive but out of it.

Her eyes closed a moment later, and Eliot didn't have it in him to wake her up. He laid her down and tucked her in, hoping she could get some peaceful sleep.

Eliot, you need to get out of there. This time it was Sophie telling him the obvious.

What were you thinking? Parker asked.

Eliot sighed, "I wasn't. I couldn't just leave her there. You heard him! She's a favorite. Somebody else would've taken her. It was hard enough to leave all the others."

I guess you just wait out the two hours then. Hardison sighed, and Eliot could imagine the hacker's annoyed expression.

"I..." Eliot began before the door swung open, causing him to jump into a defensive stance automatically.

"Oh, thank god," Evelyn sighed as she made her way into the room and shut the door behind her.

What's she doing there? Sophie wondered aloud.

"What are you doing here?" Eliot demanded, stepping between Evelyn and the girl on the bed protectively.

"Relax," Evelyn raised her hands in peace, "I'm on your side."

Eliot just glared.

Evelyn sighed and began unbuttoning her blouse. Eliot stared for a quick moment before pulling his gaze back to her face again.

"What the hell?" he asked as she moved closer.

"Just look," she replied, tugging the shirt to expose her stomach. More specifically, the carefully taped wire on her stomach.

"Oh," Eliot sighed in relief, before sinking to the bed. Pretending to be a sleazebag was exhausting.

"Yeah," Evelyn agreed, sitting beside him as she buttoned up.

He looked over to her, noticing her stuttering demeanor was gone.

"Who do you..." he began.

"Boston P.D. Sex crimes unit," she supplied pulling out a slim badge from her bra and showing him before tucking it back in.

"Oh," Eliot said again. He hadn't prepared for this.

Just let her lead. Nate advised. Don't give her any information unless she demands it.

Evelyn turned to look at the small girl tucked into the giant bed, and smiled sadly.

"I've been on this case for nearly two years," she spoke softly, "It's taken Minkerton that long to trust me enough to get me in here. Tonight was the first night he let me come along."

Eliot nodded, "So where's your backup?"

"On the way," she frowned, "I'm glad we're gonna nail the bastard. But I just wish I could have gotten some really incriminating video. Minkerton never let me close enough."

Eliot gave her a full out grin and tapped his chest twice, "I think I can help you out with that. On one condition."

"And what's that?" Evelyn sounded amused, but curious.

Eliot's fingers moved to undo his own shirt, pulling it off before handing it to her. "Just make sure nobody knows I was here. The button cam in that should have enough evidence to put him away for a long time. I'll make sure you get the recordings by the time the other cops show up."

Evelyn took a moment to consider Eliot in his tight wifebeater, and there was a considerable amount to consider.

Sighing, she nodded, "Deal. But how are you going to get out of here, without your shirt, from the tenth floor?"

Eliot grinned again as the tapping at the window came, right on cue. He moved to the big bay window, opening it to reveal Parker hanging casually, spare rig in one hand, flash drive with the digital recordings in the other. He grabbed the drive and tossed it to Evelyn, who caught it deftly, tucking it into her bra beside the badge. Stepping into the rig, Eliot allowed Parker to buckle him in safely, before stepping out onto the ledge beside her, wrapping himself around her tightly.

.

Evelyn just stared in shock.

"Be seeing you," Eliot gave her one last smile before taking a breath and letting Parker drop them off the ledge, not even minding when her hair whipped him in the face as they fell.

Evelyn ran to the window after them, but they were already out of sight.

"Who are you?" she asked the empty room.

A second later the sirens could be heard and the lights came into view, and she readied herself for the raid.

.

.

The next day's news broadcasts were filled with the scandal, and the subsequent arrest of Albert Minkerton and several others.

"I still don't understand how a parent could do that to their child," Sophie sighed as she settled herself on the couch next to Eliot.

"Wasn't the parents," Parker supplied, "The news earlier said it was the nannies. Two of them. They both worked with all the families at one point or another. They recruited other girls to be sitters and nannies, and that's how they got the kids. The parents didn't know anything."

"That's ridiculous," Eliot argued, "How could they not know something was going on? I'm still annoyed I didn't get to punch him, by the way."

Nate shrugged, "Some parents like this, with too much money and not enough time, they hardly even see their kids. Never mind changes in behavior."

"It's sick, is what it is," Hardison agreed, twisting open a bottle of soda. "I hope Minkerton makes a lot of new friends in jail. Ass grabby type friends."

"Here, here!" Sophie raised her tea in agreement.

.

Eliot stood languidly, stretching. "Don't know about you all, but I need a real drink. I'll be downstairs if any of you feel like joining."

Sophie and Hardison shook their heads, comfortable where there were. Parker gave him a shrug that said 'maybe in a little while.' Nate just waved his bottle of whiskey before pouring himself a drink. Eliot shook his head at the lot of them, fondly, and made his way to the bar.

.

.

He sat at the bar for a total of ten seconds before the stool beside him scraped back and was filled with a female form.

"You changed your hair," he greeted Evelyn, all at once surprised and unsurprised to see her.

She grinned, running her fingers through the dark locks, "Been waiting to go back to this for months. Blonde is not for me."

Eliot just smirked, "So how'd you find me?"

"Cop, remember?" Evelyn replied teasingly, "Or do you need to see my badge again?"

His gaze dropped to her chest for a split second, "Well, if you feel like you need to show me..."

Evelyn laughed, "Maybe another time. For now, I just wanted to say thank you. That video is just what we needed. Almost everyone else at the precinct gave up, and told me there wasn't anything there. But I just knew there was. And then you and your people came along, and saw it immediately."

Eliot shrugged, "It's kind of what we do."

Evelyn stood, and wrapped Eliot in a quick hug before she could change her mind.

"I'm glad."

Eliot watched her leave, only stopping to notice how her jeans hugged her just right for a moment. He was still a man, after all.

It wasn't until he stood that he felt the crinkle in his back pocket, and he pulled the smooth paper into view. It was a Polaroid of the little girl from the previous night, wrapped in the arms of what he assumed was her mother. On the back of the picture was a simple note:

Eliot,

Yes, I know your name, but don't worry, a promise is a promise. Nobody else will know. As for Samantha here, she's got a tough road ahead of her, but I've seen tougher cases end up just fine. She's going to be alright, and it's because of you. Remember that.

Evelyn

Eliot ran his fingers over the photo again before tucking it back into his pocket. Evelyn's words rang in his mind, 'tougher cases ended up just fine.' He thought of Parker and how she had started this whole crazy case on nothing but intuition and deep buried memories. But she'd been right.

He laughed to himself at the absurdity as the bar door opened and Parker entered, impeccable timing, as usual.

"What's so funny?" she asked as she sat on the stool beside him, tugging him to sit back down.

He handed her the photo without comment, watching her eyes go dark as she read the note.

"Poor kid," she commented, "she's going to be so messed up."

"Maybe," Eliot nodded, "But maybe not. I get the feeling that she's stronger than she looks. And she has people that love her. They'll take care of her."

Parker looked up from the picture, with an unusual expression on her face. A million emotions flashed through her hazel eyes, and Eliot found himself smiling as she seemed to settle on happiness and understanding.

Parker did a half spin in her chair, knocking her feet against Eliot's before giving him a small smile.

"Yeah, well, she's lucky."

.

.

THE END.