Rise Once More Read Free Page A

wouldn't be able to face your mother.” Reese says.
    “What are you telling her. Dad? Let me guess I am in Afghanistan, defending a school for orphans? You haven't told her the truth more than three times your entire life. So forgive me for not following your romantic advice.” Alex says.
    “Watch your tongue boy...” Alex interrupts Reese mid-sentence and pokes him in the chest with his index finger.
    “What are you going to do, old man?” Alex says.
    “Look, I know you are angry. But the reality is, we simply don't have time for this.” Reese says.
    “If you want my help, you are going to have to give in to my demands.” Alex says.
    “Demands? Just because you are my son doesn't grant you any special privileges.” Reese replies.
    Alex walks over to the black box and begins to dismantle the explosives, knowing all too well-that Reese is in no position to negotiate. Alex isn't even sure what situation is unfolding but he does know that it must be of grave importance. Something has gone horribly wrong and his father is calling on his own trained killer. Alex is a man of discipline, his no non-sense approach to taking human life he inherited from his old man. Reese grinds his teeth, as he rubs his hands together nervously. Alex glances over to watch his reaction. From his observations he knows, Reese is about to crack.
    “Blank check... How is that for demands?” Reese says reluctantly.
    “Really?” Alex pauses to let the words settle in his brain. Alex had intended to just make him squirm a bit, before he accepted the offer but this is something he never expected. He wonders what could have happened to cause his father to be so generous. It must be far worse than he anticipated; the thrill of taking on something of this magnitude grabs hold of Alex's soul. He quickly suppresses the feelings and resolves to take full advantage of this situation. Alex re-arms the explosives, looks at his fathers desperate face and sets the timer for 15 minutes. “I'm in.” Alex says.
    “Welcome back, Alex. Is that much C4 really necessary?” Reese asks.
    “I don't want anyone looting my hula-doll collection...” Alex replies and Reese lets out a chuckle, then tosses him a Dlink. The two exit the hut and start walking towards the chopper. Reese motions to the pilot to start the engine and ready for take-off. Suddenly, Alex stops in his tracks, places his fingers in his mouth and makes a loud whistle. “Lets go George!” Alex yells. From under the hut emerges a large white American Bulldog with a large brown patch over his right eye.
    “You still have that old mutt?” Reese asks.
    “Yes... He's coming with us too.” Alex replies.
    Alex greets his faithful companion next to the choppers open door, he lifts the dog inside and securely buckles him in. Reese takes his seat opposite the pilot and Alex settles in next to George. Alex leans over, lowers his head, to meet George at eye level. “No flying lessons today old boy.” Alex gives the go-ahead to the pilot and within minutes they are several hundred yards off-shore. Alex looks back at his island home, it is peaceful and serene. Then the explosives detonate. His former home bursts into a sea of flames, anarchy, and destruction.
    “Lets get you up to speed, put on the headset and watch the screen.” Reese says. Alex places the headset on and turns his attention to the monitor on his right. It's a local news broadcast covering the recent events of the area.
    Good evening folks around CNTX listening area. On tonight's episode of Spotlight in the Heartland, we focus on the events surrounding the old Home-stake Mine. It has been five days since the late night explosions rocked citizens of Lead from their deep slumber. The National Guard has been activated and is currently searching for survivors. Evacuation orders are still in effect for all of Lawrence County residents. The Department of Homeland Security asks all citizens to remain calm and abide by the evacuation