~Elina's Web book~
"Passions Escape Series"
Welcome to Elina's web book page. This is where readers can come kick back and get lost on a island in the Mediterranean Sea. This is a ongoing series where you can come and read the next step in the adventure of Shanna and Dane. Elina's online web book will tantalize your reading palate and bring you back to read more.
(Do to this websites policy parts of this web book is too erotic and can not be displayed. To read those parts you will have to purchase "Passions Escape". Sorry for the inconvenience)
“Passions Escape"
A wild temptress and a handsome brute.
At first sight Shanna knew Dane was trouble. The way he seemed to think he was in control, the man treated her like she didn’t have a mind of her own. Thrown together on a deserted island in the middle of "No Where’s Ocean" in the Mediterranean Sea, Shanna had to turn to the one man she despised. Their lives depended on keeping clear heads with logical thinking. This was turning out to be extremely difficult for Shanna, the man infuriated her.
Dane couldn’t believe this snip of a girl could be so much trouble. If he didn’t need the money he’d let her rot on this little floating sand hill. His mind told him she was trouble yet his body invited such enticement that she unknowingly threw his way.
The Adventure begins...
Chapter 1
The sun shone bright through the trees, leaves sparkling from the afternoon storm. One could feel the heat rising off of the Mediteranean Island as the sun started to rise to its zenith. Beautiful palms swayed in the ocean breezes. Gulls flew overhead looking for anything that moved to swoop down to quickly snatch it away. Shanna walked barefooted along the water’s edge scanning the distance in hopes for a ship or boat. Her hand held up to shield her bluish green eyes from the sun. Licking her cracked, chapped lips and glancing down to see if any of the wreckage had floated ashore. A shiver ran through her small frame as she remembers the events of the last several days.
Shanna MacFair was young and full of life on an adventure that most only dreamt of. Shanna was the only child of a well known New York lawyer Eric MacFair. A respected businessman of well means, when Eric spoke people listened. He had a strong personality that one either liked and was friends for life with or couldn’t stand. A bit bull headed, Eric always expected to get his way in all he’s dealings. His one weakness was his daughter Shanna, his whole personality changed when she entered the room. What Shanna wanted Shanna got, he made sure. He had divorced when Shanna was but a child and was given full custody. Spoiling her outrageously with anything she ever wanted. Shanna grew into a young, very beautiful woman. She was showered with cars, clothes and trips around the world. Eric never left her wanting for anything if his money could provide it. He was loving father, when it came to Shanna he was soft and tender, not the tough and heartless lawyer people claimed him to be. Shanna was spoilt terribly and she had the headstrong will and determination of her father, which was a combination that could be difficult for some.
When she was given the opportunity to travel to Greece and dive for sunken ships and lost treasures, she had jumped at the chance, seemed as though her wildest dreams were at her fingertips. Shanna had been out with a group of college friends when the conversation turned to treasures in the ocean reefs, just north-west of the island of Crete. Near a little islet called Kastelli, which was also called Kissamos. A young man that was new to the group stated he was flying out to the island in a week and wanted to know if anyone wanted to go along. The thought of gold sandy beaches and crystal blue waters made Shanna day dream of the life she'd love to have, free and full of fun. She soon found herself agreeing to go. Everyone else laughed at Tim’s story of the ship that sunk, loaded with wealth. Not Shanna, who was full of adventure and wild dreams. No just the thought of this trek made her giddy with excitement, all the maybes and could be’s. Yes Shanna's mind was in a whorl. Soon Shanna would find herself in a small four seater plane flying across the ocean to a little island set it the middle of nowhere. Excitement made her reckless and unaware of many dangers.
The morning of her departure Shanna decided to tell her father just what she was up to. She knew she would have to listen to his stern speech on how reckless she was being and how she needed to focus on college. Walking up the majestic marble staircase to her father’s study Shanna could hear the echo of her expensive alligator stiletto shoes with each step she took. Why am I so nervous? She kept asking herself. Daddy has never said no to her before, he's not going to now. Running her well manicured hand along the smooth rich imported wood of the banister Shanna came to the top of the winding stairs. Standing smoothing down her tailored dress as if to take out any wrinkles, she took a deep breath.
"Shanny, is that you? Come, come darl'en." With the squeak of his old desk chair, the only thing in the huge home that wasn't expensive Eric stood calling out to his only child.
"Yes daddy." Straightening her slender back Shanna entered her father’s study. A room filled with rows and rows of leather bound books on every wall. A window to the east to let in the morning light and dark wood flooring made the room formidable to most. Shanna loved this room with the aroma of the leather books, the stain on the old furniture and a faint scent of her father’s cologne. Standing with her hands behind her and her head tipped to one side she looked at her towering and handsome father. Even at the age of fifty seven he was incredibly handsome.
“So dear one what mischief are you up to today?" asking as he reaches out and drew Shanna into his arms. Giving her a quick hug and setting her back to look into her bright eyes.
"Well daddy I have some awesome news." wringing her hands together with nervousness; a fact that didn't go unnoticed by Eric.
"Shanny, now what could have you so excited?" with a chuckle of delight at his daughters obvious discomfort. "Ok, you have my attention." Eric said leaning back against his huge mahogany desk, reaching back and scooting papers aside as he sat farther back.
"Well daddy I went out with Tara and the gang" kicking off her shoes to feel the coolness of the wood under her feet. "And well, they are going to go treasure hunting. You know the kind I have always dreamed of?"
"And just where is this, eh.. Treasure hunt to be held?" crossing his arms as well as his booted ankles. "Last big adventure you went on sweets was a distaster; the way I remember Amber and who? Oh yeah Tara, decided they were going to the race tracks and win their millions. “Huge chest rumbling chuckles escaped her father at the memory.
"That was different, we were teenagers and.. well actually it wasn't our fault we didn't understand the rules of the track" shaking her head. "Listen" she exclaimed in frustration "Oh do stop." reaching out and giving her father a stomach punch, Eric grabbed his mid section as if in pain.
"Ok, so this treasure hunt is different, how?" Eric cocked his head to one side waiting for his daughter to enlighten him.
"Well we are older, wiser and well, yeah" This getting more chuckles and a stern look from Shanna. "Daddy we'd only be gone a week, and it's quite safe, honest. Besides I um.. Paid in advance; I knew you'd say yes since I am an adult now." Shanna standing with hands on her hips and chin in the air.
"This is true. " Eric looked at his offspring, as he rubbed the whiskers on his chin, trying to be serious. "You are older even if at times you don't act it."
"Daddy!" Shanna huffed indignantly. Yet she could tell he was going to say yes. A slow smile crept across her beautiful young face.
"Shanny, you have to promise me to keep me informed every step of the way." standing and twisting his back from side to side with a small groan, stretching. "You have your phone and you said you'd be gone only a week, right?"
"Oh yes a week." Shanna looked at her feet, clearing her throat. "There's going to be several of us going so you need not worry daddy." She had never lied to her father before; she didn't like this feeling at all.
"Well I trust you. You have a level head on those shoulders and you know how to use it. You’re a MacFair!" Eric leaned over his daughter, gripping her softly and kissing her forehead. " Oh and this adventure, where is it to be?"
"Oh um, Kastelli." She mumbled as she bent down to grab her shoes.
"Where?" Frowning and looking at his daughter in confusion. "If I didn't know better I'd say thats not anywhere near New York."
" No, actually it's a little island just off of Crete, in Greece." Shanna said off handedly.
"Mother of God! Shanna what the hell? You little rescale. You are more and more like me every day." Shaking his head and laughing. "You had better be alert and keep close to the others in the group." Thinking she's too much like him. He'd of worked this like a sidestepping deal too if he'd of been her. Chuckling as he looked up at her.
"Now off you go so I can get this trial worked out in my head. This court case is going to be the death of me." Eric mumbles as he slips back into his old chair and soon gets lost in the piles of files and stacks of paperwork. Being a formidable criminal defense lawyer wasn’t an easy task, especially one that wasn't crooked. After giving her father a warm hug from behind and a peck on the cheek Shanna ran down the stairs, shoes in hand and a smile on her lips.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter 2
Shanna’s heart beat fast in her chest as she boarded the big jet that was to take her to Crete, where she’d meet up with Tim, than they would then fly to Kastelli and start their wild treasure adventure. Butterflies danced in Shanna’s stomach, at the thought of what lies ahead. Scooting the bag she was allowed to board with under her legs and hurriedly sat next to the window. Shanna watched the men outside the plane load the luggage and rush around attending to the last minute preparations before the departure. Soon the Flight attendant stood in front of the plane and schooled everyone to the safety and rules of the flight. With Shanna’s mind on the adventure set before her she was only half listening; she’d heard it so many times she herself could tell the rest of the passengers word for word how to behave during an emergency as well all the rules.
At the roar of the mighty engines starting up Shanna was brought out of her dreamy state and back to reality. Setting back with a brochure of Crete and its few surrounding islands in her hand she watched as they glided down the runway. Out the small oval window next to her seat she saw huge grey planes lined up, luggage carts running around as well as planes coming in for landing at a distance away.
Hours into the flight Shanna tried to relax and nap but to no avail, this was an adventure shed dreamed of for as long as she could remember. She looked out the window day dreaming. Soon the flight attendant in her grey blue prim dress and hat passed around little bags of peanuts and small sodas. Shanna shook her head no as she walked by and directing her attention back out into the wild blue of the sky. Lost in thought she was startled back to reality when the elderly passenger beside her nudged her.
“Have you ever been to Crete my dear?” The grey haired woman asked smiling.
“No I haven’t and I am so looking forward to it.” Shanna responded with a beaming smile. “I am going treasure hunting off the coast near Kasteli.”
“Oh how exciting for you! I would love to be a part of such an adventure.” The woman said shaking her head as she spoke. “Those days are long past for me I am afraid.” She added as she settled back into her seat. Reaching out a slim yet weathered hand said. “My name is Mae I live on the Island in the city of Paleohora, been there for many years, I love the place!” grasping Shanna’s out stretched hand with a soft but firm grip. “My husband and I came here when we were newly married.”
“Oh how romantic.” Shanna whispered back holding the elderly Mae’s hand. Thinking she was such a dear soul. They continued to chat about Mae’s life on the Island and of Henry her long love of fifty two years. How her husband had died a few years past leaving her a nice sized villa nestled along the coastline of Paleohora. Soon both women were quiet. Mae sat lost in memories of days gone by and Shanna went back to day dreaming of the days that lie ahead. A few moments passed, then the over head speaker crackled and the warm, masculine voice of the captain engulfed the plane.
“Thank you for flying Delta, hope you enjoy your stay” he said as the flight attendant entered and started directing the passengers to remain seated and buckled for their safety. Shanna heard little as her mind was focused on the wild adventure and fun she will have. The huge grey bird’s flight had come to its end as it made the decent to Chania airport. Shanna had been watching the blue ocean below them turn to a blue green. As they came closer to the Island of Crete one could see the golden sands that etched the water’s edge, the green slopes as well as the rocky cliffs. Closing her eyes and breathing in deep she tried to calm her excitement as the aircraft dipped down and lined up with the runway. Soon the wheels touched and they were gliding swiftly along the smooth surface of the grey cemented runway of the Chania Airport.
In a short amount of time the passengers were filing off the plane and into the airport. It seemed more like hours to Shanna in her state of excitement. As they fallowed one by one along the narrow ramp that led to the interior of the airport Mae tripped. She tried desperately to catch herself, grabbing at the wall as she went down. Shanna was behind a few people as she saw the woman go down.
“Mae! Mae!” Shanna called out as she rushed to her, kneeling and helping her up as others side stepped. To her amazement the others looked at Mae without concern as though she was just blocking their path. Disgusted Shanna scowled at the other passengers.
“Oh my dear, you are such a sweetheart!” Mae said as Shanna pulled her to her feet. “I am alright” she continued as she saw the look on Shanna’s face. “I fall off and on, it’s this ankle of mine. Henry always said I was clumsy” she said with a breathless chuckle.
“Are you sure? Shanna asked as Mae winced in pain with each step she took. Shanna helped Mae walk to the line of benches inside the airport lobby, Mae slowly set down.
“Shanna I would be honored if you stayed at my villa and be my guest.” She said smiling up into Shanna’s young face.
“Thank you Mae, I’d love to someday, I do however have my adventure.”
“Yes, yes I do understand. Here is my address if you find a need to come sooner.” Mae said as she jotted down the information on a small note pad and handed it to Shanna.
“Thank you” Shanna took the small white paper from her and slid it in the top zip compartment of her bag. Shanna gave Mae a hug and a peck on her weathered cheek and said “I must be going. Will you be ok here?” looking at her with open concern.
“Oh yes my dear, my son Les will be here shortly to pick me up.” she said giving Shanna a warm hug back.
“Ok then I best be off to find my ride. It was a pleasure to have met you Mae. Take care.” She said as she turned to go.
Dragging her huge blue wheeler luggage along and looking for the familiar face of Tim in the crowd of strangers. Shanna was a little nervous now that she was here in Crete. She didn’t really know Tim and was being very trusting. “He better be here she thought” as she stood looking in all directions running nervous hands down her cool spring dress. Her long dark hair hung down her back in waves and swished back and forth as she searched the crowds.
As Shanna stood there the faint ringing of her phone alerted her. “Daddy” Oh no shed forgotten to call and let him know how things were going. Digging around in the top zip of her luggage she found her phone.
“Daddy, hello!” she said in a cheery voice. Holding the phone out from her ear as his now booming voice came through the ear piece.
“Shanny. Why didn’t you call me? I told you to call the moment you landed. I checked with the flight schedule and you have been on Crete for approximately thirty minutes.” He said in a gruff voice Shanna knew so well.
“Daddy I was helping a lady I had met on the plane. Don’t worry so much all is fine. My heavens you will grow old before your time if you fret about me like this.” She said laughing as he huffed on the other end of the line.
“My ride is here so I have to go now but I will call you when I get to the motel. I promise” she said as she stood on her toes looking above the crowd for Tim.
“Ok honey, make sure you do.” Eric said thinking to himself “sure you will.” “Ok be safe, bye.”
“Yes daddy I will, I love you. Bye bye.” Shanna flipped the phone shut with her chin as she grabbed the handle of her luggage with the other hand.
Tim hurried down the long carpeted corridor of the airport searching for Shanna. He knew her plane had just landed, he’d seen some of the passengers from that flight. Reaching up and smoothing down his unruly brown hair as he walked, taking long strides. His slim frame clothed in khaki shorts, grey T shirt and leather sandals. Tim was a bit shy around girls, although he had a few girl friends in the past, none were like Shanna. She was beautiful, full of life and exciting. He loved her zest for life and adventure as well as her bubbly personality. He’d heard her father was well off and that she was spoilt. He didn’t care she could have been poor and homeless.
Tim was excited! Not about the adventure but the fact that Shanna agreed to come along. He never in his wildest dreams thought a girl like her would come away with him. He had watched her in college and dreamed and fantasized about her. He was brought back to earth as he saw the beauty of his dreams standing but a short distance looking as if she was lost.
“Shanna!” Tim shouted and waved as he hurried towards her. “Shanna.” He could feel his face flush when she turned and smiled. God he loved her smile. It would bring the strongest of men to their knees he was sure.
“Tim, wow I was getting concerned. I was afraid you had forgotten me.” Shanna said with a giggle as she cocked her head to one side.
“Oh no, I was just held up with the parking. My flight came in late last night.” he said thinking “No one would ever forget you!” His heart beat wildly in his chest as he reached out and grabbed the handle of her luggage and their hands touched.
“Well I am so glad you’re here now.” she said as they turned to go.
Her excitement soon replaced any nervousness she may have had earlier. Shanna was bounding with energy as she giggled and talked and blasted question after question at Tim. He didn’t mind, it made feel like he was important to her and that made him feel good.
Tim had booked two rooms at the Pension Kasteli motel, a modest motel as well as inexpensive. It was set in a quiet neighborhood just outside the Old City of Chania, which was not far from the Old port. It had the true characteristics of the traditional Cretan hospitality. The Pension Kaseli was quaint in its beauty, standing against the backdrop of Chania’s green hills with its wild spring flowers, walls of ivory and bisque made a striking contrast. Tim wanted to impress Shanna with the food, the music and the beautiful surroundings of Crete. He wanted Shanna to enjoy herself and in his fantasy she would fall in love with his quiet charm.
Shanna gazed out the rental cars window as they drove by villas and motels with children playing along the sidewalks, dogs barking as they ran and laughed. Her heart fell in love with the aura of Chania. The fragrance of warm salty air mixed with the sweet smell wildflowers. The island gave a person a feeling of freedom. Their stay at the Pension Kaselie was comfortable and entertaining for the most part. The hospitality was exceptional, as well as the music and food. Shanna had never seen such rich culture.
Tim glanced across at Shanna in her sleeveless white top, her light blue Capri’s and long dark hair. She was so beautiful with her bright smile and twinkling bluish green eyes. The wind from the window blew her hair back as she leaned against the window frame of the car door. He felt bad about his forward advances of the previous night, although she seemed to have forgotten about it. He smiled and hoped so.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter 3
Several days later Shanna found herself on a small four seated plane flying across the ocean to the Island of Gavdos, set it the middle of what seemed like nowhere. They would stay at one of the small villages and rent a boat and head out to the reefs and dive for their treasure. Excitement made her reckless and unaware of many things. Shanna’s mind raced at the thought of the sand, the sun and the water, the diving and yes the treasure! Shanna looked at Tim; he didn’t seem very interested in the trip. He acted as though he’d done this so many times before that it bored him. Her mind wondered back to the night before.
Tim had been flirtatious all the time they were at the motel. Watching her every move, doting on what she said and laughing nervously. Shanna thought at first it a bit cute that Tim was such an admirer; yes she could see he was infatuated in her. He tried extra hard to impress her, telling her stories of his previous adventures. Which she was sure were made up just to sound like he was courageous. She liked Tim he had been mild mannered and easy going, well all the way up till he started drinking the local drink of Chania. That’s when things changed. As Tim ate and drank he soon became loud and obnoxious, not the soft spoken flirt. Shanna excused herself, scooting back her chair as she dropped the napkin in her plate. Shanna knew it best that she retired to her room before the situation got out of hand. Tim was determined to be the honorable man, escorting her to her room. He came around to Shanna and gently grasped her arm as to guild her along. Shanna agreed to be lead across the small dining of the motel, figuring she’d say a polite good night and that would be that.
Tim was feeling a bit dizzy as he held Shanna’s elbow and walked her up the stairs. His mind was in a daze at the beauty of Shanna, her hair, her perfume and just the way she moved. Tim’s body reacted to her closeness, making him uncomfortable. His infatuation along with the liquor made things appear so right in his mind.
As soon as they reached the landing at the top of the stairs Tim guided Shanna towards her room, watching her hips sway as she walked. His heart beat fast and his hands felt sweaty as thoughts raced around at what he wanted to do to Shanna. Tim took a deep breath, unlocked and opened the heavy wooden door. He fallowed Shanna through the open doorway flipping on the light switch as they entered and closing it behind him. Shanna turned quickly as she realized Tim had come in and shut the door behind them.
“Tim, I want to thank you for the dinner and the company. Food was fabulous and it’s so beautiful here.” Shanna said as she slowly took a few steps back.
“Not as beautiful as you Shanna” Tim said in a lazy intoxicated drawl as he took a few steps closer to her.
“Tim, um I am really tired and I think you should go” Shanna was feeling a bit nervous as she noticed the look on his face and where his eyes were wondering to.
“Mmm yes I think bed does sound good.” He responded stepping closer and running his hands up her arms and leaning towards her face.
“Tim, Stop! You need to leave.” Shanna said in a stern and angry voice. With a hand on his chest she pushed him a step back.
“Aw come on Shan..na, let me kiss you.” He said in a slur. “You’ll like it” licking his lips and pushing her hand away.
In a rush Shanna didn’t expect Tim pulled her close, wrapped his arms around her, pinning her to him as his lips ran across her jaw and lips. Tim attempted to travel down her neck to her breast. In one swift movement Shanna brought up a knee and planted it in his swollen groin and pushed him back.
“Augh.. haaa oh my God.” Tim moaned as he doubled over in pain grabbing his crotch.
“Tim I told you to leave. I didn’t mean to hurt you but you weren’t listening. You drank too much and need to sleep it off.” She said as she walked to the door and opened it. Shanna stood holding the door open with an indignant look on her face as Tim, trying desperately to stand straight, walking slowly to the door.
“Shanna I’m sorry, I lost my head please forgive me.” He said with a sheepish look and slurred speech, through groans of pain.
“Tim just go to bed” Shanna was too tired to irritate to deal with his groveling.
Without another word Tim turned and left, leaving Shanna a little shaken and angry. She breathed deep as she closed the door behind him and locked it. Laughter and music from the lower level of the motel drifted up to her ears, as did the aroma of the rich food and drink. She wondered how such a nice evening could turn sour in a matter of minutes. Shaking her head in disgust she started getting ready for bed.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter 4
The plane gulped and jostled Shanna in her seat, bringing her out of her musings of last night. She tightened her seat belt tighter and decided she wasn’t going to let Tim put a damper on her high spirits. She bubbled and talked through most of the short flight. As they neared the Island the engine sputtered, coughed and started to buck.
“Hey man what the hell’s going on?” Tim yelled at the pilot.
“Oh she does this all the time, nothing to worry about.” No sooner did the Jason the pilot say this that a huge bellow of black smoke poured into the cockpit of the plane and flames shot out of the engine. Jason shot out orders to Tim as he tried to keep control of the plane. His knuckles white as he tried to lift up on the stick face grim. Fear engulfed Tim as he searched around for a parachute yelling Shanna’s name. He knew this could be their last curtain call.
“Shanna! Shanna! Hurry put this on.” Tim yelled as he tossed a passengers parachute to her.
He struggled with his own as he tried to make it back to Shanna’s seat. The plane was now tipping precariously downwards towards deep turquoise waves. Shanna reached trying desperately to get the bundle that Tim threw to her. The small aircraft was at such a tilt that she slid, hitting hard against the wall of the plane. Pain ran up from her knee to her left hip. Tears from fear and pain ran down her pale cheeks. Coughing as the dark smoke gripped her lungs. In all of Shanna’s young years she had never been as terrified as she was at this very moment. With desperation she clawed at the strap of the parachute till her middle finger latched around it, she drug it to her, hurriedly with fingers that didn’t want to work she fumbled with the buckles. Her breath coming in gasps as she felt hands on hers helping.
“Shanna, hold my hand tight! Whatever happens keep a hold of my hand we need to jump before this plane crashes.” Tim yelled as he tried to drag Shanna towards the door of the plane. Together they scooted the short distance across the floor to the door. The three foot span felt more like a mile to them as they struggled to keep a grip on each other and stay in the direction of the planes door.
“Mayday! Mayday!” Jason yelled into the radio microphone.
Shanna clung to Tim as he unlatched the door and tried to slide it open, it wouldn’t budge! The angle of the descending plane as well as the direction that the door had to slide made it impossible. Frustrated and scared Tim started cursing, hitting and kicking it, screaming. Shanna wedged her foot against the back of the cockpit wall that was just inches from of the door. With her free hand she pushed at the door along with Tim. Not more than seconds later they heard the pilot yell.
“Oh My God!” Jason said as if in confirmation that it was over.
The impact of the small aircraft hitting the Mediterranean waves was devastating. The front of the plane crashed onto the water at lightning speed. Jason lost his life instantly as his body slammed into the throttle and his head through the windshield. The wings were ripped off instantly as the plane tumbled and skipped across the water. Parts and pieces flew in all directions. The two passengers were tossed around like rag dolls inside as the craft as it went through a series of summersaults, twists and turns before landing and slowly starting to sink. The crash took no more than sixty seconds to happen and change lives or end them forever.
Parts of the plane floated along silently in the soft waves as if nothing happened. The main body of the wreckage dipped and tilted as it started to fill completely with water. Shanna woke gasping for air as the salty water filled her nostrils. Pain shot through her temples as she fully regained consciousness, looking around she felt confused and dazed. What she saw brought heightened fear. The plane was a shell with no nose, no wings and the door was missing; Shanna lay on her back in the water as it half floated.
The plane shifted in the water and started taking on more water thus springing Shanna into action. With numb fingers she fumbled once again with the parachutes buckles. This time however it was to remove the device that was meant to save. She knew if she didn’t get it off it would saturate with water and drowned her. Whimpering in fear and the pain, she worked the buckle to no avail; she laid back and screamed in frustration. “No No No!” she sobbed “Oh God No!” Taking a deep breath she tried again, her fingers slipped against a sharp edge of the buckle, cutting her across the palm of her hand, the sting of the salty water making her moan in new found pain. This didn’t stop her; she knew she had very little time to escape this watery coffin. She forced herself to focus and steady her hands enough to work the strap through the buckle and wiggle out of the harness. What was left of the plane rocked back and forth like a canoe that was about to capsize as she dropped the parachute in the water and crawled to the open doorway. Shanna looked out at the peaceful waves that but minutes ago became a watery grave for the pilot and Tim; she knew she had to fight to save her own life now.
Seeing something floating a few feet away she pushed herself off and out from the wreckage. As she came closer she could tell it was the tip of the plane’s wing. The wing was about five feet long, two feet wide at the tip and the other end close to four. She clung to the wing as she watched the wreckage slowly go under.
The realization of being totally alone in the middle of a vast ocean set in and with it a feeling of despair. Shanna let out a loud childlike sob, as she floated there staring at where the craft had once been. Shanna clung to her only means of survival and looked around; she could see nothing other than lapping waves for as far as the eye could see. Sea gulls flew above her as if in wait for her demise. Shanna worked and worked till she could lie on top of the wing, as slim as she was it carried her weight effortlessly, it rocked gently in the waves. She lay stretched out on her tummy, her bare feet hanging over one end, her arms gripping the sides. With her chin on the hard surface of the wing it brought her eyes level with the turquoise surface.
Shanna rocked and dipped with each wave, making a shhsh sound as gulls squawked over head. Her attention was drawn to the many cuts and scrapes she had, the sting of the salt water biting, her head ached and felt feverish. The gash on her palm being the worst of her injuries, it ran from just below her index finger across her palm down close to her wrist. The blood that had ran down her arm now washed away in the MediterraneanSea. It throbbed and stung with pain as she repositioned it for a better grip on the wing.
As the day progressed Shanna went in and out of a dazed consciousness. The Mediterranean sun shone bight over head, beating its rays down on Shanna’s still form. Her long dark hair hung over the side of the wing floating in the waves like moss. Dolphins swam in circles investigating this new comer as Shanna lay unaware.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter 5
Eric paced back and forth across the hard wooden floor stopping every few turns to look at his phone lying silent on his desk. “Damn it! Why hasn’t she called?” He asked himself. The first night Shanna was gone he figured she was busy with her friends and having too much fun to be bothered calling her ole dad. He told himself, but now? Now he was truly worried! Shanna was forgetful at times but she never intentionally worried him. It’s been two days since he’d spoken with her. He stopped pacing and grabbed his phone off the top of a pile of files and dials Shanna’s number. He listened as Shanna’s voice mail answered. “Hi this is Shanna, I’m not here right now. Leave your name and number and I will call you back.” Eric left a quick message and resumed his pacing, his mind in a whorl.
An hour later Eric was on the phone once more, this time he had a man on the island of Crete lined up to search for his long lost daughter. His friend Carlos had many business connections across the globe. He told Eric he knew just the man for the job, told him that if the guy was available he’d have him call within the hour. To Eric that wouldn’t be soon enough!
Three hours later Dane had the time Shanna arrived on the island, where she stayed, what she ate and drank the night she stayed at the Pension Kasteli. The name and age of her companion and that they hired a local named Jason and his Cessna 172 Skyhawk, a four-seat, single-engine plane to take them to the other side of Crete were most treasure crazed tourists went.
Many locals liked telling the tourists stories of lost treasures along the coastal reefs, just off of Loutro. They found it a good way to bring tourist and make money. They’d pay local fishermen a small fee to dump worthless pieces of old ship parts along with some coin. Then charge huge fees to the tourists to take them out to search for ancient treasures. Dane found it rather underhanded yet entertaining how they’d pay these prices and most time come back empty handed.
Dane Morgan was a local himself, born here and lived on the island most of his life. He had moved to the United States for a few years working as a private investigator as well as other jobs, but soon found he missed the life back on Crete. His friends, family and his boat were here, his life! All he knew was here on the island. He was tall and handsome with his hazel eyes, handsome dark looks and quick wit. Well known among the female population. His well defined body and charm had the ladies close to swooning for him and he knew it.
By noon the following day Dane was on his thirty foot schooner gliding across the warm waters of the Cretan sea. In a few days time he’d be on the other side of the Island in the Mediterranean Sea where he figured he’d find Ms MacFair in the arms of her lover or hunting for her fortune in the watery depths just off the coast of Loutro near the Gavdopoula reefs. He scowled at the thought of a rich young city girl chasing her gold digging dreams. But her rich lawyer daddy wanted his spoilt little girl back safe in his high tooten condo, he chuckled.
“Well Russ, we’ll find rich daddy’s little brat and be all the richer for it.” He said to his four legged companion. Dane grinned as Russ barked back. Russ was a Jack Russell Terrier that Dane had rescued several years back; the little fellow kind of grew on him. Now Russ was his ship mate and went everywhere on his thirty foot schooner the “Watery Temptress”. He sat perched on his little wooden crate Dane had put next to the helm, watching as if he was truly the second in command.
The day proved to be hotter than its usual sweltering heat. Dane’s dark hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck and blew back off his tanned forehead, his hazel eyes searched the waters as he came around the northwestern tip of Crete he could see the sandy beaches of Gramvoúsa. He stood with his big hands gripping the helm, muscles flexed as the Watery Temptress bounced with the waves. His shirtless torso bronzed by the Greek sun, legs braced a few feet apart clad in dark blue Dockers.
Gulls flew along with the schooner, as dolphins darted in and out of the waves besides them, keeping up the fast pace. Russ would bark as one of the pesky birds flew to close. Music floated out of an old radio speakers Dane had mounted on the wall of the cabin. Yes life was good when they were on board his Watery Temptress. A beaming smile shot across Danes face as he thought of the freedom he felt on the sea, a feeling he’d never give up!
Four hours into his sea faring search a loud cher-plunk cher-plunk and then they were dead in the water. Russ barked as Dane cursed.
“Holy mother of God, what the fuck” as he whipped around and headed down into the gully to see what happened to the engine, Russ fast at his heals. Hopping down the steps pushed the hatch open and peered inside as he flipped on the light. The engine was silent.
“Russ, my boy what do you think the problem is?” he said as he knelt down in front of the small greasy engine as Russ whined and wiggles his short stubby tail. Dane grabbed channel locks and an old rag and started tinkering with the carburetor. In a few minutes stood up, gave the pull cord a quick jerk and with a cough or too the engine was brought back to life.
“Wahoo” Dane yelled as the engine continued its chug-a-lugging purr. Russ started jumping up and down barking. “We’re back in business!” was Danes remark as he jolted back up the small set of stairs to the deck where the two continued their hunt for Shanna. Grabbing his hat off the wall hook and slapping it on his head, he scanned the waters in every direction, nothing. Dane was pretty sure where the threesome went; he’d met their kind many times before. Out on some crazy adventure thinking they’d make their fortune. He pulled up the aluminum chair with its dark blue and white stripped webbing, scooted it closer to the ice chest and sat down. Flipped the lid of the Igloo Ice chest up and grabbed a cold frothy Bud light. The loud snap of the cap alerted Russ from his perch on the crate; ears perked and head to one side.
“Nope not this time, this one’s all mine buddy.” He chuckled as Russ growled as if he knew what Dane had said. “Besides beer would make a short little guy like you fat!” the thought making Dane burst out in a deep throated laugh.
Three beers later and several hours closer to the reefs Dane was headed to, he kicked back put his feet up beside his dog. The rocking of the “Watery Temptress” and the sound of the chug chug, chug of the motor, Dane was soon snoozing. The night before at the local pub, drinking and flirting with Anna Marie was today’s reason for his nap.
Anna Marie was pretty and like most Greek girls she had the black hair and big dark eyes. She had been after Dane for years. She was fun to spend time with; they did get along quite well. She was flirty and sexy to a degree but not really his taste. She was too easy and laid back, he liked spunk, fire, someone more alive. Anna Marie was after a husband and Dane wasn’t in the running. He wasn’t ready to be on that ball and freaking chain. No way!
Loud yips from Russ woke Dane from his little cat nap; he set up stretching, arms over his head as he bowed his back and yawned. Jumping to his feet he took in the island before him. Gavdopoula was still a short distance from them, a small island at best, not many habitants. The few times he’d docked here the little island seemed to be deserted. Most of the islanders didn’t like strangers, even if they could make money off them. There were no missions and very few people, no inns or motels. No you’d have to go to the neighboring island of Gavdos for that, they were friendlier there as well.
Dane took his cap off his head wiped his forehead with his forearm and replaced it. “Damn this heat” He thought to himself. Hazel eyes once more searched the distance for some sign of a boat. “Damn it” Dane scoffed at the thought that entered his head. Looking down at Russ
“I’m betting we will get to the island and find the lovers. Yeah great!” shaken his head “Well either way at least I’ll get paid for finding the spoilt brat; Even if she doesn’t want daddy to know what she’s up to.” With that Dane and his trusty buddy continued on their watery search.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chapter 6
The sound of lapping water vaguely registered in Shanna’s mind as well as the squawk of sea gulls. Water splashed on Shanna face as the broken plane wing hit against jagged rocks, jarring her; moaning she slowly regained consciousness. Pain shot through her like a sharp knife as she rolled over off the white hard wing of the plane. To her amazement her body landed on soft sand covered by a foot of water, her eyes flew open. She squinted at the brightness of the beach and the glare off the water that surrounded her. Her heart beat wildly in her chest. Land!
Every inch of Shanna’s body ached and as she set in the swirling water scanning her surroundings; holding up a bruised hand to shield her eyes. There were what appeared to be miles of golden sandy beach lined with a few jagged rocks, a little in from the water there were palm trees and shrubs. Not a sound other than the winging knocking against the rocks and the swish of the water running up the sand and receding, as several gulls flew over head. Shanna slowly stood and straightened her aching body, turned and pulled and tugged the wing up on the sand. The planes wing gave her an odd since of connection with reality. Her hand stung like it was on fire as the sand and salt water attacked it once more. Shanna stopped, held it close as she studied her swollen and throbbing palm. The cut was now red, puffy and warm to the touch. It looked rather deep, yet Shanna was never very good at the doctoring thing so she didn’t really know if it was infected or just red. All she knew was it hurt like hell and it made her want to cry. With each step she took she felt pain jabbing in her temples and stinging from scrapes all over her body. Shanna felt lost, alone and unsure as to what to do, big tears welled up in her eyes and threatened to spill over.
Taking a deep breath she walked out of the water and onto the sand. Shanna looked down at her feet, watching the sandy bubbles and water between her toes. Looking up she slowly worked her way up towards the trees, each step slow and painful. The heat of the sun was becoming unbearable. Her lips were cracked from lack of fresh water and the Greek sun. The first several steps onto the dry sand was warm but not uncomfortably so, a few more yards and she was moaning with the scorching sand, hopping on one foot, than other all the way to the shaded tree line. Shanna dropped to her knees and held her face in her hands; huge sobs racked her small frame as she rocked back and forth in her suffering. Her discomfort was bearable, it was the loss, the confusion and the fear that gripped her. Tears ran feely down her bruised cheeks, as the saltiness touched her cut hand it burnt and stung with new found strength. What seemed hours later she sniffled, wiping her cheeks with the back of her hand, laying down under a big leafed bush and fell into an exhausted sleep.
Not more than a few hundred yards from the shadows where Shanna slept, nestled against a cluster of grey rocks lay a man barely alive, pale from loss of blood and shock. There was an ugly wound on his left side where a jagged piece of metal protruded. Part of the airplanes fuselage had been catapulted upon impact with the water and imbedded into Tim’s abdomen. He laid half in the water and half on the rocks, with each splash of the salty waves he’d choke, gasp for air and moan in pain. Any slight movement would cause the the blood to flow from his deep wound, causing more blood loss, something Tim could ill afford to lose. At a distance Tim could hear the sound of sea gulls as if in a fog, he tried repeatedly to open his eyes. The sun was bright even with his blured vision he could see the blue sky overhead a few seconds before he'd go back into his safe foggy state. He was so weak, yet Tim's will to live was strong, his mind fought to regain consciousness.
Shanna’s eyes slowly opened, she lay looking up through fronds of the palm trees she was laying under, from her soft bed of sand. She watched as the sun filtered through the greenery. She lay there watching the long finger like spikes of the frond leave dance as the breeze played amongst them. She slowly raised herself up on her elbows and then into a setting position, breathing deep as she did. She felt hot and itchy, covered in sand. With one hand she dusted as much sand off as she stood up and slowly walked down to the water’s edge scanning the waves.
The sun had dropped lower in the sky making the sand cool to Shanna bare feet, as she walked a soft breeze off the water, lifting Shanna’s hair away from her shoulders and back. There were little sand piper birds scurrying along a few feet ahead of her getting what they could for their evening meal. Shanna felt so alone, the sea was so vast and empty and inland seemed threatening to her with its line of palm trees and low growing shrubs. Seemed there were no one living on this little island, with its rocky terrain and endless sandy mounds. Shanna figured it more of a chance to be rescued if she stayed next to the water and probably safer.
The waves splashed against jagged clusters of rocks catching Shanna’s attention. As she walked closer she saw something lying amongst them. Hurrying her pace as she realized it was a man! Her heart pounded in her chest as a lump formed in her throat, running the last few feet and kneeling beside him.
“Oh my God!” she wailed as tears ran down her face. “Tim? Tim? Oh God Tim?” she moaned as she reached out and slowly touching his pale skin, half afraid to. A low moan came from Tim as she pushed at him. Shanna looked around them in wild desperation. What should she do?
Shanna stood, went around above Tim, reached down and gripped him under the arms and started dragging him up out of the water. With each tug pain shot through her hand, biting her lip she tried hard to ignore it. Tim wasn’t a heavy man but his weight seemed doubled as Shanna had to pull him up hill. She knew she had to get him to the tree line and make him comfortable. With arms shaky and weak it took her an hour of hard tugging and dragging to just get him the twenty feet to the trees.
Tim was in and out of consciousness as Shanna drug him. He’d wake just to have the extreme pain take him back into the safety and comfort of an unconscious fog. With a lot of effort Shanna had Tim lying under a palm with tree leafy bushes sparsely spread around at a distance, along with some rough grey rocks off to one side. The sand made up his bed and a few fronds for his head.
Shanna sat beside Tim on her knees looking down at him, his breathing was shallow and rough, his skin pale and clammy to the touch. Looking at his side she gasped at what she saw. The piece of metal protruding from his side looked as if it wedged deep to her. Blood oozed around the edges of the torn material. Fear and indecision flooded Shanna’s mind, as she set back and watched Tim’s labored breathing. She knew she needed to keep him warm and as comfortable as possible, but how? Looking desperately around her, she decided to gather palm fronds to use as a blanket along with her body heat. First she wanted a closer look at his wound. Slowly and with extreme care Shanna tore the T shirt away from Tim’s side exposing an angry red wound, deep dark blood seeped out from around the metal. First instinct was to pull the object out, as her hand was posed in mid air a memory filtered in the back of her mind. No! If she did he would die within minutes! Pulling her hand back as if bitten she started crying.
“Oh God Tim what do I do?” she said as she reached her hand out and tenderly caressed his brow in a nurturing way. His eyes slowly opened and looked at her.
“Shh anna” he whispered ‘Don’t cry mmmmm” he moaned.
“Tim I’m so scared! What do I do?” she said between gulps and sobs.” I want to help you” rubbing her nose with her hand and looking so lost.
“Shhh, I am so sorry I got you into this.” Tim coughed and winced in extreme pain. Fresh red blood oozed from his wound. “I wanted to be” he paused catching his breath as sharp pain grabbed his side. “With you so bad I never thought of any danger“ he continued.
“Tim, don’t think of that now just relax and please get better.” Shanna said putting her finger to his lips. She sat beside Tim, her chest tight with worry. “I need to get some of these palm branches and make a blanket for you” She said as she stood up, looking down at him. “You rest I will be right here.” Turning she started gathering as the branches at had fallen from the trees in the last wind.
Soon Shanna had Tim covered in green fronds. The evening had cooled off several degrees and Tim has started shivering. Scared shock has set in and make matters worse Shanna slid under the leafy blanket she made and carefully wrapped her arms around Tim’s shaking body.
“Hmmm Shanna, baby.” He mumbled as his arm came slowly up to her and drew her closer. “I have dreamt of the night you’d be in my arms, just never figured it would be my last.” His voice cracked with emotion. Big gulping sobs racked Shanna’s body as what Tim said sank in.
“No, no. no” Shanna cried holding Tim close as exhaustion snuck in and sleep soon after.
Tim lay for hours holding his dream girl in his arms. His heart hurt for he knew he’d not make it much longer. Afraid to close his eyes for fear he’d not open them again, he laid caressing Shanna’s arm and thinking of how much he cared for this woman. He’d fell in love with her a year earlier when he first laid eyes on her beautiful face. She was so bright and cheery all the time. He loved her beaming smile and bubbly laughter. She was so sexy with her long hair and slim figure, yes he will miss her.
“I love you Shanna” Tim whispered and closed his eyes.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
WARNING:
Any institution or individual copying this website, the contents therein or any of its associated sites for studies, projects or personal use. YOU DO NOT have permission to use any of the info or pictures in any form, both current and future. If you have or do, it will be considered a violation of my privacy and will be subject to legal consequences.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~