Golden Dreams

Golden Dreams

By Dana Shepard

Copyright © 2012 by Dana Shepard

Smashwords Edition

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 White Gold

Chapter 2 The Set Up

Chapter 3 County

Chapter 4 Prison

Chapter 5 Work Release

Chapter 6 Drunk Charlie

Chapter 7 The Search Begins

Chapter 8 Divine Intervention

Chapter 9 Ole Hitler

Chapter 10 Jackpot

Chapter 11 Pirates

Chapter 12 Destiny

Introduction

Crack! The solid hickory pole slammed into Dane’s staff; he had barely gotten up in time to block the blow intended for his face. Crack, Crack, Crack, and Jason continued his lightning fast assault, swinging hard from a firm grip in the middle of a four foot pole. Dane was doing his best to block each blow as Jason struck him with both ends of the staff and issued kicks intermittently. Dane lashed out with an offensive attack; he jabbed at Jason with the end of the staff and followed with a spinning axe kick, driving his heel into Jason’s side, stunning Jason slightly. Dane landed unevenly on the pure white sand of Sanibel Island, losing his footing for just a fraction of a second. It was enough time for Jason to kick him square in the chest, knocking the wind out of him. In one fluid movement he used the end of the staff to hook Dane’s left leg and knocked Dane onto his back, driving the other end of the staff incredibly hard and straight at Dane’s skull; he stopped an eighth of an inch from shattering his face completely.

Focus Dane, never lose your footing or your center of balance! Jason said firmly. Sweat was glistening on Dane’s face as the hot Florida sun beat down on both of them. Okay, take it easy! Dane replied to his best friend and Kung Fu instructor. Jason extended his hand and helped Dane get up. You did well, just keep working on your speed and balance it is essential I will try harder. Dane said as he observed two young women watching them from a distance. They were very attractive and both were wearing skimpy bikinis with T-back style bottoms. One waved at Dane and smiled; he waved back and grabbed his towel from the sand. He wiped the sweat and a few drops of blood from his earlier close call with the staff; it had grazed his face and broken the skin. The waves were crashing on the beach as the sandpipers scurried in and out; hunting for whatever the water leaves behind. Dane’s heart was beating rapidly, pumping blood quickly through his veins; they had been sparring for thirty minutes and both men were tired.

Dane Bradley and Jason Dearborn had met about seventeen years ago. It was Dane’s first time in the county jail but it would but not be his last. He had been in a bar brawl and had hurt several people very badly. He was not the instigator but he was the one who had put a quick end to it, and due to the severity of the injuries to the men, he was charged with aggravated battery and incarcerated. Jason is a correctional officer at the county jail who quickly took notice of Dane. Jay as his friends call him is a master of Chinese and Indonesian Kung Fu, extremely talented, he specializes in a style called Dim Mak The Death Touch. Jason teaches a select few out of his garage at home and Dane is his star pupil. You see the key is focus, you channel all of your mental and physical power and focus it on the point of impact. Develop your inner energy; the Asians call it Chi or life force. Practice breathing techniques, draw from the core of your being and learn smooth fluid movements, you can work on power later. Focus on accuracy and speed for now.

Yes, I am beginning to understand. I can feel incredible energy flowing through my body; my movements are smoother and more balanced; it’s all becoming second nature to me now. Dane was truly amazed. Dane when I first noticed you in the cell block years ago, I saw how you handled yourself when three inmates jumped you. I knew then that you had tremendous potential, you are a natural. Jason replied. Jay, I have learned self-discipline. I have a new outlook on life since we met. My life was not always like this as you well know. When I got my black belt it was a huge achievement for me. I never felt that I had accomplished anything worthy before that. I just want to say thank you for believing in me. Dane said. Dane, I see so much potential for good in you and I do not judge a man by his past, you deserve another chance. Jason replied.

Dane grew up in a broken home; like so many kids today he lacked supervision and a male role model. It resulted in a lifestyle of complete recklessness and rebellion. Dane started using drugs and alcohol at a very early age, running with the wrong crowd and getting into trouble; he just got misdirected early in life. He started selling narcotics at about the age of sixteen, it was what all his friends were doing and he thought it was normal behavior. As a result of public schools, a rough neighborhood and his chosen profession he learned how to fight very well and handle firearms expertly. The neighborhood he grew up in was notorious for crime and violence and he learned to survive and excel.

I have been out of prison for five years now. I have radically changed my life. I am seriously considering a business venture. I have prayed about it and I know God will provide an opportunity; I just need to be patient. Dane you are very talented and God will provide a way if you keep the faith. You have come so far, you are a success already, look at what you have accomplished. I am truly blessed; the governor has completely reinstated all my civil rights and my program for rehabilitation of ex-cons is spreading and of course I have Tiffany. Dane was directly responsible for changing the way that the government views ex-convicts and their ability to change their lifestyle.

Dane has wonderful women in his life, she was two years younger than him and truly beautiful inside and out; best of all she is fiercely loyal and honest. She has stood by him through thick and thin. Yes, Dane you have lived a life of trials and danger, but you are still here to tell the tale Jay laughed as he and Dane reflected on the last few years. I want to marry Tiffany, I’m ready and she is definitely the one. Will you be my best man Jay? I would be honored Dane. I have to take care of a few things first to ensure our future. Dane said. Continue to do the right thing, trust in God and yourself, you will both receive many blessings. I am proud to be your friend. I have tremendous faith Jay; that last prison sentence really changed me. I have god given talents and a strong will to succeed; I just know something great is going to happen.

Dane is thirty eight years old and he has been with Tiffany since high school. She has weathered the storm with him, through jail, prison and much more. During his entire prison term she was the one who came to visit on a regular basis, she was the one who sent money and accepted collect phone calls. Jason also helped as well as his mother but Tiffany was his foundation; his rock. He could always depend on her and he loved her deeply, more than words could tell. A series of events has caused Dane to go to prison for five years, he was thinking about that too. His life has been a rollercoaster of excitement, danger, turmoil and blessings.

Dane and Jay were sitting cross legged on the sand meditating. Jay was explaining breathing techniques and martial arts strategies as they sat on the beach. Dane I want you to study the anatomy charts that I gave you, the key to Dim Mak is to strike at the pressure points and nerve bundles. There are many very vulnerable points on the human body. I have been studying and practicing on the dummy you gave me. Good, just remember; only use these moves if absolutely necessary. They may result in paralysis or death. Jay, you have taught me honor and I will never use this knowledge unless my life depended on it or an innocent person were in grave danger. I have total faith in your abilities and discretion. Jay stood up from a lotus position. Race you to the water. Dane took off in a sprint for the ocean with Jay following close behind. They both ran neck and neck into the crashing waves until they were knee deep in the water and dove head first into the cool blue ocean. Life is good. Dane said. Amen brother."

After a few minutes splashing in the waves they had washed off the sweat and sand from their bodies and returned to the beach to dry off and head for their vehicles. Jay slipped into his convertible mustang and cranked up the big throaty V-8 engine Think about everything we discussed and take care of you and Tiffany. Jay’s mustang fishtailed in the sand as he drove off. Dane yelled back Will do, be safe Jay. He jumped into his pick up and started the drive back to Port Charlotte where he and Tiffany lived and worked. It was a long drive home but he and Jay loved training on the island, it was such a beautiful location and there were several remote areas where they could have some peace and privacy.

As he headed over the causeway admiring the open expanse of beautiful blue water between Ft Myers beach and the barrier island; his cell rang. The caller ID highlighted the small LCD screen; Tiffany was at the other end. Hi baby, how’s it going? Tiffany’s voice was soft and sweet with a little bit of a southern drawl that Dane loved so much. Really good babe, I just finished my lesson with Jay and I’m on my way home right now. I made you some lunch; fresh grouper from your last fishing trip and some shrimp with dirty rice and steamed vegetables. Baby that sounds good I’m starving. I’ll be there as soon as I can. Drive safely, sweetie. I will, love you, see you soon. He hit 41 and drove north through Ft Myers toward Charlotte County. On the way home Dane stopped at the dive shop to pick up some fresh tanks. Dane was hooked on scuba diving; he loved to explore the reefs and wrecks all around the coast of Florida. An avid sportsman and lover of the outdoors Dane would often dive and spearfish with his best friend Jay.

Dane honed his body in prison and he was in peak physical condition; at 6’2" and 215 lbs. he was trim and muscular. He had combined weight training with long distance running to fine tune his body and help him deal with the daily stress of prison life. It also pays to be in good shape in prison when faced with the inevitable physical confrontation. He tried to avoid problems by using his wit and humor but some people are just impossible they cannot be reasoned with; life is not logical in prison. He was so glad that life was behind him now. He had a large amount of money hidden away from his days before prison and he needed a legitimate way to introduce it into his life without the prying eyes of the IRS, FBI and local law enforcement agencies catching on. He was simply waiting for the right opportunity; we will talk more about that later.

Dane had lived a life of many regrets but he had also made many changes for the better. Dane as a youth had slept around but he always ended up back with Tiffany, it was just meant to be; they knew it deep in their souls. He had a reputation in High School as a troublemaker; he was always in the principal’s office for fighting. He was not a bully, not by far but the school he attended was largely populated by the children of the wealthiest families in town and this made him an outcast because of his family’s financial status. His mother loved him but she came from a background that was both poor and dysfunctional. She was lonely and drank a lot and always had a different guy living with them. He loved her and he had forgiven her, she was part of his life still but they did not communicate often; his father was no longer part of his life they had gone their separate ways a long time ago.

During his repeated stays at the county jail he educated himself as much as he could and aced the GED. He was naturally good at anything he attempted. He entered every program available in jail or prison, reading for hours; whatever books he could get his hands on. He had changed in prison, sincerely changed for the better. Society often does not believe a man when he finds God in prison, but he had been transformed. He studied the bible and went to the church services and it had a profound effect on him. He met a man who radically changed his perspective forever. He accepted Jesus Christ as his savior and was baptized. Dane gave a lot of credit to that man who planted a seed in his heart. Good things were coming to him; he felt it in his heart and his mind.

Sometimes you must defend yourself. Sometimes you must defend innocent people; this often requires physical force; evil will prosper if good men do nothing. Dane Bradley was no stranger to evil and he was a good man who knew that sometimes you must act, you must do something. He was blessed with a gift, one that could be used to defend the helpless in this world. This is his story.

Dane pulled in to their modest home; it is not a mansion by far, but it is on Charlotte Harbor and the view from the back dock is incredible. It also has adequate space for his 26 foot Wellcraft; a boat he purchased from a fisherman who frequented the bar and restaurant where he worked. At the door he is greeted by Tiffany with a big kiss, and as her arms encircle him, he is struck by her natural beauty, which never ceases to amaze him. She is absolutely gorgeous, thirty six years old and she still weighs 110 pounds. She has long blonde hair and a face that requires no makeup; her body is as perfect as a playboy centerfold. But best of all, she is a good women with a huge heart and she is absolutely fearless. Hey baby! Tiffany says with that big smile Dane loves. No matter how many times, I always love it when you come home to me. I always miss you too baby. He honestly doesn’t know how he is so lucky that she is so madly in love with him.

He gives her a quick pat on the behind and moves into the kitchen. The strong scent of fresh seafood, garlic and herbs draws him. He makes them both a plate and a huge glass of fresh lemonade with lots of ice; they carry their food out to the back porch. The porch is dark and Dane switches on the lights. A cool breeze is blowing off of the bay and there is a hint of salt in the air. Dane has always been drawn to the ocean like a magnet. Tiffany you are an exceptional cook, this grouper is perfect. Thanks, babe, flattery will get you everywhere Tiffany says with a seductive smile. Dane is always turned on when he is near Tiffany; she is a natural aphrodisiac, a true southern beauty. Tiffany gets up and walks to the sink in the kitchen to start the dishes. Dane follows behind her.

Dane softly kisses Tiffany’s neck and ears, pressing his body against hers. Tiffany drops the dish she is holding gently into the sink; they turn and kiss passionately. Dane whispers You are amazing and Tiffany falls into his arms You are my man, babe, I was born to be with you. He picks her up and gently carries her to the bedroom. He can barely contain himself as he lays her on the bed and begins to undress her. He slowly unbuttons Tiffany’s sweater and her large firm breasts burst out; she is not wearing a bra, nor does she need one. Tiffany removes his clothes and kisses him softly and after all these years the attraction is still incredibly strong. Their lips burn when they touch, their bodies intertwine and the love that they make is both sensual and somehow spiritual. A union that is complete, at this time they are one. A blinding light, a feeling that explodes throughout their bodies and then it is over.

Dane and Tiffany are together, side by side, a feeling of happiness and love surrounds them at this perfect moment. Dane is searching for the right way to tell Tiffany his plans for their future. I truly love you. Tiffany can see that Dane is suddenly very serious. You know I love you too Dane. Her voice is soft and sweet. Tiffany, I want you to be my wife, will you marry me? Tiffany’s eyes light up. Dane Bradley I have been waiting twenty years for you to ask me that question. Yes! Yes! Yes! Thoughts flash through Dane’s mind of how Tiffany has been a rock. They had been through so much together. The past had been very difficult but she never gave up on him. We have to set a date babe; I will let you handle that but we are officially engaged and we will get you a ring tomorrow. Oh my god I can’t wait to tell everyone and pick out a dress; I want this to be the best day of our lives. Tiffany squeals.

Dane bends over and plants a kiss on her cheek. He has been bartending at a small local establishment since he was released from prison. The Harbor is a local hangout that also attracts a lot of tourists. He works second shift 5 till 2pm, bar hours. Tiffany works as a cocktail waitress at a Tiki bar down the street from the Harbor. She works the same hours so that she and Dane can spend more time together and so that Dane can keep an eye on her. Dane moonlighted as a bouncer prior to going to prison but opted out for a more lucrative position. Hey Tiffany. He called from the shower Why don’t you come join me? I would love to. Tiffany slides into the shower with Dane, the water is warm and steam covers the glass shower door.

Tiffany Amber Lynn grew up in Ft Myers; she came from a middle class home in the historic section. Her father, a dentist, has an office in downtown Ft Myers. He is a good man but does not approve of Dane but then, he doesn’t know who Dane really is. Dane plans on making Tiffany a respectable woman, hoping that their marriage will gain him approval and acceptance from her father. Tiffany graduated high school and completed college. She has a BA in Art unlike Dane who received his GED while in jail. Tiffany has faith in Dane, she knows the real man, and she has never regretted her choice. She is confident that Dane has a solid future. She has always been attracted to his wild side but knows he can be calm and controlled. Tiffany says he is like a wild stallion, with strength and grace under a tight rein. Tiffany is a great match for Dane. She is a strong southern woman, with faith in God and Dane Bradley. Dane is dressed in his Levi jeans and a polo shirt, he looks amazing to her. Tiffany stares at Dane, picturing how he will look on their wedding day in his tuxedo; that will be the day, to get Dane to wear a tux. Suddenly Dane grabs his keys and heads for his pickup and stops just long enough to kiss her goodbye See you later, lover. He says with a sly grin as he watches her walk back to the house. She waves and calls out Love you, like crazy. Damn I am so lucky. Dane thinks as he pulls out of the driveway.

Dane shuts the door of his pickup and walks toward the waterfront bar that he has bartended at for five years. The club is located on Charlotte Harbor and has a large boat dock for weekend boat traffic. It is well known by all the locals and is usually packed most of the time. Larry Smith is owner and proprietor and friends call him Hairy Larry. He is a stout man built like a Sherman tank with huge Popeye forearms covered with tattoos and long grey hair down to his waist; hence the nickname. Basically Larry’s a tough hippy fisherman with a good heart. Larry bought the bar from his father, they are both commercial fisherman; shrimpers and longliners. Larry drinks too much and he has been known to smoke grass but he would help anyone in need and will give you a job when no one else will.

Larry spent a lot of time and money renovating the bar over the last ten years adding waterfront tables and a stage for live entertainment on the weekends. Reggae Sundays are very popular. Inside there are huge saltwater aquariums embedded in the walls that are stocked with many species of game fish. Huge snook or linesiders, as some call them and giant tarpon, grouper, Florida lobster, snapper, eels, and smaller feeder fish swim back and forth continuously. The walls and ceilings are covered with fishing gear, harpoons and nets. Old life preservers line the walls with names on them like the one that says Code Blue strung up there by a retired doctor or Gas Hogg, Irish wake, Y-knot, Dr Dog’s cat and Dane’s favorite: Hell Froze over. There is an old diving suit in the corner with a metal helmet and a buoy in another corner that one of the fishermen actually stole out of the bay. The place is filled with ship anchors and ship wheels and a huge hammerhead hangs over the bar.

Dane walks through the door to the end of the bar where Larry sits drinking a beer. Inside it is cool and dark and Jimmy Buffet is playing on the sound system. The bar is a horse shoe shape made of solid oak with new coins embedded in the surface and covered with a thick coat of polyurethane. Everything smells like cigar smoke, saltwater and fresh cut wood, a mixture that Dane loves, he is right at home here. Hey, Dane, How’s my boy? Larry says with a big smile as he gets up and pats Dane on the back. Fantastic! How about you Larry? Fine Dane, just fine. Dane sits down beside his friend and boss, a huge tarpon is swimming in the tank behind them. Well boss how’s business been today? Slow, but you know all the local boys will be in here at quitting time. Yeah, they’ll all be in here soon telling the same tall tales, I love those stories." Dane smiled, clocked in, and started his shift.

Larry loves Dane like a son, he trusts him with his business and his life. Dane remembers vividly the night that three shrimpers tried to rob and kill Larry. It was a busy night at the bar; the place was packed with people. Dane worked the main bar mixing cocktails for a large group of college girls on spring break. The girls were young and very pretty. They were all becoming very drunk and several openly flirted with Dane. One girl in particular named Brittany was obviously very interested in Dane. Hey Dane, how about another shooter; sex on the beach sounds good to me, what about you cutie? Brittany said with a wink and she threw him a kiss.

It was late and Larry was empting the registers. He walked past Dane toward the back with all of the money. Hey, I’m going into the office to tally up tonight’s profits and put them in the safe, keep an eye on the door for me, Dane. Dane looked down at three guys at the end of the bar. He had spoken with them earlier and they had told him that they were shrimpers out of Texas. He had a gut feeling about them and he asked around early in the evening and no one seemed to know them. Something was strange about how they acted. He noticed that they seemed to be paying too much attention to what Larry was doing and it seemed as though they might be casing the place. He watched them as he finished up making drinks for the girls. Hey, Brittany how about trying my house specialty, I call it a T.K.O. Sounds good, bring it on handsome. Brittany giggled and bent over near Dane so her blouse fell open and he could see her breasts. Brittany you are very beautiful but I am spoken for. Dane wanted to let Brittany and the others girls know where things stand. That’s one lucky lady cause you’re a very special guy, are you sure your taken? Dane slid the drink to Brittany.

Just then Dane saw that one of the men at the end of the bar was walking toward the restrooms and another was following close behind; now he was sure something was wrong. The office was next to the restrooms and Dane excused himself and walked down to the office to check on Larry. As he approached the office door he heard several voices; Larry always counts the money alone in his office. Dane looked through a small crack in the door and saw two men standing over Larry. One man had a semi-automatic pistol in his hand and it was pointed at Larry who had blood dripping from a large gash on his head; he had obviously been pistol whipped. The other man was crouching in front of the safe and shoving stacks of bills into a canvas bag. Dane’s heart was racing and he could feel the adrenaline pumping through his body. Almost like a reflex he started to move, he backed up and kicked the door and it struck the man with the gun. The gun went off wildly and fired into the wall behind them. Larry saw the gunman turn to fire at him and Dane instinctively hit the man incredibly hard with a palm strike directly on the bridge of the nose. The gunman yelped as his nose exploded; blood was everywhere. The gunman fell to the floor. The second man dropped the canvas bag and reached into his waistband. Dane did not hesitate. He struck the man with a knife hand chop in the neck and kicked him in the groin. The second gunman still fumbled for his weapon. Dane kicked him in the side of his head, it made a sickening crunching sound and the man was on the floor with blood trickling from his ears.

Larry was in complete shock he had never witnessed anything like this before in his entire life. Are you ok Larry?’ Dane picked up the pistol lying on the floor. Yes I am thanks to you" Larry was holding his head. Just then Dane heard the girls at the bar yelling for him; he had completely forgotten about the other man at the bar. Brittany and the other girls were trying to get Dane’s attention; they heard the commotion in the office and saw the last of the three men run from the bar. Dane ran out the front door just as a ford F150 was screeching out of the parking lot. He was able to get the license tag number and called the police.

Dane went back to the office to check on Larry. Larry was busy tying up the second gunman with rope from some of the wall exhibits. The first gunman was motionless on the floor in a large pool of crimson blood. Dane checked his pulse and there was none; he was dead. The palm strike had caused the nasal bone to penetrate his skull and killed him instantly. The local police showed up and cuffed the second man and took him to the hospital by ambulance. He was still unconscious. Dane found out later that he had suffered brain damage. The first guy was wrapped and bagged and put in a van from the coroner office. The third man was caught a few days later after a shootout with the police; they had traced his license tag. The two survivors were charged with armed robbery and homicide because the death of their friend had occurred during the commission of a felony. They were also charged with a string of armed robberies and murders that they had committed in neighboring counties. They were killers. Larry owed his life to Dane Bradley.

Dane worked for Larry but he had total access to all aspects of the business and was treated like a son. Dane felt like Larry was a father to him. Larry had helped him when no one else would. Dane was paid very well and was manager of The Harbor but he would have worked for Larry for nothing. He would always watch out for Hairy Larry. Dane thought about prison and another robbery attempt that happened long ago before he met Larry. He had saved someone’s life in a very similar situation. Many events had shaped Dane into the man he was today.

Chapter 1 White Gold

It was 1999 and Dane was still drinking and using drugs although he had slowed down quite bit after several run-ins with the law. It was at this time that he began his martial arts training with Jason and it was helping him to develop self-control and discipline. Dane had always been a loose cannon, angry and out of control, hurting anyone who came up against him. He was out late one night fishing off of Gaspirilla Island in Charlotte County. At the tip of the island is Boca Grande lighthouse and straight out from the lighthouse is the world famous Boca Grande pass. The pass is well known for the summertime migrating tarpon. There is a very strong current that runs through the pass from the gulf to the bay and vice versa depending on the tide and it is about sixty feet deep and about three quarters of a mile across. Gaspirilla Island is lined with white sandy beaches, state parks and old phosphate docks left over from the fishing industry.

The pass is also famous for sharks; really big sharks. The great hammerhead is known to frequent the area and some have been known to reach almost 25 feet in length and weigh up to a ton. There are also plenty of bull sharks and tiger sharks as well. A few years back he had seen some fisherman trying to haul in a very large tarpon in excess of 150 pounds. As the fisherman got the tarpon close to the boat a huge hammerhead attacked; with one bite the fish was eaten whole except for the head. A truly awe inspiring spectacle to watch, and needless to say, swimming and water sports are strongly discouraged in the pass.

He decided to go to the bayside of the pass to fish and he drove to the public parking area at the state park facility near the lighthouse. He paid for his parking, got out his fishing gear from the back of the truck and started the hike to his favorite fishing location. He walked down the beach, the moon was full, and ghost crabs scurried back and forth and then retreated into their burrows as he past. A cool breeze drifted off the Gulf of Mexico, and as he walked through the deep, white sand, he noticed an object in the water close to the shoreline. As he got closer he could see that it was a large storage trunk and it appeared to be taped shut and sealed all around with a kind of waterproof duct tape. He grabbed the box and dragged it as far up the shore as he could; it was very heavy.

Dane took out his filet knife from the tackle box and cut the tape that held the lid closed. It took almost 30 minutes to remove enough tape to open the lid. He took out his flashlight and shined it inside the box; it was filled with packages neatly stacked to the top, and sealed with the same tape. He took out a package and cut into it with his knife; inside was a beige powder that smelled of ether. He put some of the powder on his finger and tasted it and his mouth and entire face went numb, just as he thought; this was pure uncut cocaine. Holy shit! There were at least 50 or more kilograms inside the trunk. He started to drag the trunk to a wooded area along the side of the beach. It was hard work and slow going, the deep sugar sand and the weight of the trunk made it extremely difficult. He finally got it into the woods and covered it with palm fronds and other debris. This trunk was probably thrown off a boat in the pass just before the coast guard came aboard. This entire area was home to major drug running. The fishing and shrimping industries are prime conduits for narcotics smuggling.

The whole damn coast of Florida is used to import enormous amounts of cocaine and heroin; it is extremely valuable and as long as there is a demand there will be a supply. A lot of people are misled by Florida’s reputation as a vacation paradise, it also has a very dark side; a hidden underworld of drugs and violent crime. Florida’s huge state prison system is a testament to this underlying evil. The amount of cocaine in this trunk probably had a street value of about 750,000 dollars which was three quarters of a million dollars. Dane was torn between the risk he would be taking and the great amount of money he would get if he sold the coke.

He decided to take it back to his vehicle and figure out where he could store it until he could find a buyer. He went back to the truck and retrieved a furniture dolly and began to drag the trunk through the sand for about a quarter of a mile. He was extremely nervous and sweating profusely because he knew that if he were to get caught with this amount of cocaine he would never see the light of day again. Every time he saw headlights or a boat he would begin to actually physically shake. He thought about the people who had lost this trunk and what they would be willing to do to retrieve it. He knew he could not ever let Tiffany know about this. He loved her so much and would never put her at risk.

He had to unload over half of the trunk before he could get it into the back bed of the truck by himself. He replaced what he had taken out and covered everything with a tarp. He got into the cab and closed and locked the door, started the engine and ran the air conditioner for a while. It was a huge physical relief; he was exhausted. He had to think of a safe place to store it and it was almost daylight so he started driving back to town. He waited until 8am and then drove to the U-Store it storage facility near his apartment. The woman at the counter was half asleep and too busy focusing on a donut and coffee to take real notice of him, she asked no questions. He rented a small storage unit; pulled the truck around and unloaded the trunk. There was a total of 56 kilos; he secured the door and headed back to his apartment. The neighborhood was just coming alive; people were carrying out the trash and walking their dogs. He jumped in the shower, got cleaned up and crawled in bed beside Tiffany. She was still fast asleep and her body was warm and soothing. He gently kissed her forehead, pulled her close to him and quickly fell into a deep sleep.

He woke up around noon to the smell of bacon frying and fresh brewed coffee. The sun was shining through the window and he was starting to sweat. Good morning sweetheart, Tiffany entered the bedroom You must have gotten in late last night, did you have any luck? She was smiling that beautiful perfect smile that always made him feel so good. She was wearing cutoff jeans and one of his T-shirts and she always looked both sexy and sweet. No, not so much last night. I caught a couple of undersized snook and had to throw them back. He hated to lie to her but it was in her best interest that he did. Why don’t you come and have a late breakfast with me? I’ll be right there." He got cleaned up and went into the kitchen. After breakfast they went for a morning swim at the pool of their apartment complex; which consisted of kissing and horseplay. He complimented Tiffany on her new two piece bikini; she looked stunning and that was never an exaggeration.

When they returned to the apartment it was almost time for her to leave for work. She dressed quickly, gave him a kiss and left. As soon as Tiffany was out of sight Dane got busy making plans for his day off. He called an old friend of his from high school. Hey Jack, I was wondering if I could come by and talk to you in person? Sure Dane, I haven’t seen you in a while and you know you are always welcome. We’ll talk when you get here. Jack was a good friend and a very powerful figure in the underworld. He had family in Miami and several important connections in Dade County. If anyone could move this amount of blow, it was him. He got dressed and started the drive to Naples where Jack was the owner of a fine Italian restaurant in the downtown district. It was another beautiful day as usual in southwest Florida. The traffic was jammed and all the tourists or snowbirds were down for the winter. It was about 73 degrees in the middle of November. It was no wonder everyone flocked here from the northern states in the winter months to get away from the freezing cold and relentless snow.

Dane got to Naples in about 30 minutes; it was a city that was famous for the number of millionaires per capita. A lot of wealthy people lived and played there. That was obvious as you passed by the estates and mansions that lined the streets. He pulled up to Marsalas a small Italian restaurant; Jack’s main money laundering establishment. He walked to the entrance of the building and a huge Greek man named Nick was sitting at the door. Hey Dane long time no see. Dane knew Nick from school too. Nick was a big, hard man, mean as a snake and just as ruthless. He was one of Jack’s personal bodyguards. Dane could see the bulge of a pistol in his waistband. Jack’s waiting on you in the banquet room. Nick motioned toward the back and as Dane walked through the restaurant classical Italian music played in the background. The tables were set with white linen tablecloths, fine china and crystal wine glasses, and the smell of fresh garlic and basil lingering in the air. He could see Jack sitting at a table in the corner. Two very tough looking men sat at opposite sides of the room, they were dressed impeccably in Armani suits, but that did not cover up their true nature and purpose, they were more of Jack’s thugs. Jack was drinking a large glass of red wine and smoking an authentic Cuban cigar. Sit down, Dane. It’s been awhile since we did business.

Jack blew out a cloud of smoke which swirled above Dane’s face and asked So what’s on your mind Dane? Jack was a light skinned man, he had Cuban blood in him from his father’s side of the family but you could not tell by his looks. He was overweight and slightly balding, a kind of Marlon Brando look alike. Dane took a seat across from Jack and sat back in the chair. Would you care for a drink? Jack turned toward Dane. Sure, I’ll take a Crown on the rocks and make it a double. He needed to calm his nerves a bit. Vicky, get this man a double Crown on the rocks. Jack shouted across the room. Vicky made the drink and brought it over to the table. She was very attractive and definitely Italian with dark hair and olive skin. She was wearing a very short shirt that revealed long darkly tan legs and an oxford style shirt with the last button left undone exposing an ample chest; quite a looker. He expected nothing less; Jack always had great taste in women. Here you are sir, would you care for anything else. Vicky placed the drink in front of Dane. No thank you Vicky, this will be fine for now. Dane picked up the glass and took a long drink and set the glass on the table. Well jack I didn’t come here for a social visit. I didn’t think so Dane, so what’s up? I need to move a very large amount of pure Columbian cocaine. Dane said wasting no time. Well I just may be able to assist you; how much are we talking about and at what price? Jack asked in a very matter of fact tone of voice. Jack never inquired where the coke came from. I’d say 50 keys of uncut pure product. I can let it go for 15 grand apiece all in one lump sum. Well, Dane, it looks like we have hit the jackpot."

Dane and Jack go back a long way; Jack remembered when Dane helped him many years ago when they were just boys. Jack looked at Dane and said I will never forget that you helped me when I was jumped in the parking lot at school; you fought three men. You were fierce and strong and I never saw fighting like that. You have a good heart; you always helped when someone was being bullied; they would have killed me. It was not the only time Dane had stood up for him. I am forever in your debt. Jack and Dane shook hands on this new business deal. Let us meet at the docks on Fort Myers Beach tomorrow night. I will be at the old shrimp processing plant, I own it now. Come alone and bring the product. Jack drank the last of his glass of wine. Dane answered Sounds good, how about 9pm?Dane got up and started to leave See you then, and be careful, Dane. Dane left the table and as he walked out he dropped the liquor glass onto the bar and bid Vicky farewell. Thanks for the drink. He said smiling. No problem, anytime. Dane was sure Jack did not see the smile and wink she gave him. Dane walked to his truck and as he passed Nick he heard him chuckle and say Take care Dane and try not to hurt anyone You do the same, Nick. Dane knew that this was the last time he would have dealings with Jack.

He was incredibly nervous; he had never dealt with such a large amount of narcotics. His hands were sweating and his stomach was a mess. He got into his truck and started to drive to Port Charlotte, he needed to take care of this deal as soon as possible and be done with it; he wanted the drugs out of his possession. He went home and called his boss, at that time he was bouncing at a strip club on US 41. He asked for the following night off so that he could take care of some personal business and his request was granted. Tiffany worked at the same club as a cocktail waitress, so he had to come up with a good excuse. When Tiffany came home he told her that he had a lead on a better job at restaurant in Naples and that he had an appointment to talk to the owner of the club and she believed him. She was so trusting. They watched a movie and had a couple of glasses of wine. After the movie they went to bed and made love. Dane felt guilty about lying to her. It would be just one of many lies.

The next day he waited until Tiffany left for work and then he hurried to the storage facility and closed his account. He drove around to his unit and unloaded the cocaine, he put it into several suitcases that he had brought with him then he put the suitcases into the bed of the truck. He also put the empty trunk in the truck and the extra 6 kilos behind the seat in the cab. He stopped at the dumpster on the way out and threw the empty trunk inside. He brought along his pistol just in case he might need it; if he ran into any trouble.

About half way down Summerlin Blvd, The expressway to Ft Myers Beach, a Lee County Deputy Sheriff pulled in behind Dane’s truck. He was almost in a state of shock; one stupid traffic stop and his life was over. He took the pistol out of the glove box and put it on the seat beside him. He was not going to prison for life no matter what. Dane was sweating profusely. He tried to remain calm and not show how nervous he actually was. He was driving the speed limit and using his signals; why was this cop behind him? The deputy hit his lights and sirens and he damn near had a heart attack. He cocked the gun and put a round in the chamber, he was done. Why did he take this chance? He asked himself repeatedly. The deputy accelerated up to his bumper. Was he going to have to shoot his way out? Suddenly the cop swerved into the other lane and punched the gas, he was after someone else. Dane’s insides felt like he was going to vomit. Whew! Thank God that was a close call! He continued driving down to Shrimp Boat Lane made a left and drove down to the boat docks. He pulled into the old processing plant and there was Jack’s black Cadillac Escalade; he parked beside it and got out. His heart was still racing; he took a couple of deep breaths and leaned against the truck. Just then Nick came out of the building with the other two guys from the restaurant. They helped him unload the truck and carry the suitcases into the old building. When they walked through the sorting area of the process plant it had the strong smell of chemicals. Jack was sitting on a chair in the middle of the room; there was a table in front of him and a Mack 10 with a fifty round clip on the seat next to him.

Dane placed the suitcase he was carrying on the table and opened it. Nick and the others did the same. What’s up my friend? Jack said puffing on a cigar as usual. I told you I would be here on time and here I am. You were always rock solid Dane. Jack removed one of the packages from the suitcase and took out his buck knife. He sliced a small slit in the bag and dumped some coke on the table. Get me the test kit, Nick. Jack said firmly. Nick reached into a briefcase, pulled out a test tube and two plastic bottles of chemicals. He placed the items on the table in front of Jack. Jack used the buck knife to scoop up some powder and put it into the test tube. He squirted one of the chemicals into the tube and swirled it around until the power dissolved; Jack added the second chemical and when he swirled it around this time it turned bright blue. Bingo boys! Jack said with a grin We got a winner. How much is there Dane Fifty kilos, as we discussed earlier. Nick, get the money. Jack held out his hand and Nick placed a black attaché case in front of Dane. It was full of brand new uncirculated one hundred dollar bills tightly banded in stacks of ten thousand. That’s seven hundred fifty thousand dollars in non-sequential bills and they are completely untraceable. Do you want to count it Dane? "No need