Madeleine & the Mind Read Free

speech really. They aren't sure how much he can remember because he can't speak. Work…or something, prevents them from flying home."
    He glanced back and forth as if gauging their reactions then settled his gaze on Madeleine. "Your employer in Houston said you're an accomplished therapist with just the skills required by this patient."
    Inspector Banderas nodded his head and stood. "Bueno. This is most fortunate." He tipped his head to Mr. Jamieson then bowed over Madeleine's hand. "Now…if you'll excuse me, there are other matters which require my attention."
    "Wait!" Madeline bolted from her chair.
    The inspector paused just inside the door with a polite expression of resignation on his face. "Senorita?"
    Madeleine gaped. Why had she jumped out of her chair to lunge at a stranger?
    The inspector appeared trustworthy, more than that, he'd proven himself trustworthy, like a security blanket, and Mr. Jamieson…She turned back to examine the smiling diplomat. He just seemed to want to be rid of her.
    "Senorita, you have my number should you require anything else, but I trust that will not be necessary."
    "Uh, right. Thank you…for all you've done."
    "My pleasure. We are sorry your stay has ended in such a manner. I hope it improves."
    He inclined his head and left.
    Madeleine fell back in her chair. The Inspector might be satisfied, but Madeleine's mind whirled with questions. "Mr. Jamieson, you're aware that my luggage has flown to Texas, and I don't have even one change of clothing?"
    "Don't give it another thought. I believe you'll have all the surgical wear…er, scrubs, that you'll need. You'll be staying in somewhat of a hospital, I take it. But there are recreation grounds…a pool. You might get in a little more sight-seeing." He gave her a glare. "As long as you stay to the main thoroughfares." His eyes softened, and he smiled. "Well, if that's it…"
    "Just a moment. How long is it going to take to earn my passage home? I'll lose my job if I'm away too long."
    "I believe your employer was paid a stipend for your services. If the patient responds to treatment immediately, your flight home will be assured, otherwise, you will receive your usual salary, plus a bonus until you can return home. But…it's hoped you'll remain until the patient has fully recovered. Now…"
    He stood up. Clearly, he considered their interview at an end. "A car is waiting out front to take you to your new residence." He held out a small white card. "Do not hesitate to call upon me if you have further questions."
    Madeleine smiled to herself. She may not have two pennies to rub together but now she had two business cards. Whoopee.
    She climbed down the stairs, instead of sliding down the banister as she was tempted, to find Miss Phipps and her wide, toothy smile.
    "The limousine is just outside. Have a wonderful stay at The Institute. I here it's a fascinating place."
    Fascinating. That could mean anything to quite a number of people.
    Madeleine raised her hand to wave and stepped out the door past the armed presence on either side. Once again, the Marines stared forward, unblinking. Quite an impression of strength and safety. If anything went wrong, she'd be back.
    A long, black Embassy car, flags waving on either side, eased up to the curb. Madeleine climbed in, and they whisked away to points unknown.
    Did the patient live in Madrid? She hadn't thought to ask.
    She knocked on the window that separated her from the driver, another young Marine. The glass lowered.
    "Yes, Miss?"
    "Where are we going?"
    A grin lifted the corner of his mouth, but he showed no surprise. "To The Institute. On the outskirts of Madrid."
    The Institute. Sounded like a loony bin. Were they sending her to an asylum?
    She shrugged and sat back to enjoy her first ride in a limo. Lord, I know there's a point to this. All things work together for the good of them that love the Lord, and you know I love you…right?
    More than half an hour later, they pulled up to a