I guess this turned out to be another happily ever after for them, that is until Sistina and Johnny realized that starting a new life would be harder than they thought. You see, in order to completely start their lives over again Johnny would have to end his contract with the wrestling ring where he fought. Had it been in the old days it would not have been a problem however, someone new owned the ring where Johnny fought. Someone who ran a mafia, this someone decided when and how a person's career would end. Can Johnny be released from his contract? Or will he have to continue to fight to ensure that his family remains safe? You will just have to find out in what I like to call The case of the kidnapped family

The case of the Kidnapped Family.

Things were going well for Sistina and Johnny. They had resolved their differences and were starting over. They had decided to renew their wedding vows. This time it was going to be a traditional wedding only family and friends.

After they had returned from their 2nd honeymoon and had resettled down it was time to face the first real challenge of their new start. It was time to discuss the thing that had almost torn them apart, Johnny's wrestling career. They both agreed that wrestling was getting more and more dangerous a sport to be involved in. The sport of wrestling was no longer real. Crime lords ran the rings and ordered everyone to wrestle in rigged matches but they were to make these matches as realistic as possible.

Wrestlers were told to take dives and sometimes were even told to injure another wrestler on purpose. Taking a dive was a wrestler's way of purposely losing a match. If they refused to take dives when told then bad things happened to them or members of their families. If the wrestler had a wife or the crime lord would say something like "you have a pretty wife, it would be a shame if something were to happen to her say on the way home from the grocery store. Perhaps she could get robbed or worse you know what I mean?" Or they would threaten to harm wrestlers children the usual statement went something like this, "you have a son/ daughter how are they? It would be a shame if someone were to kidnap them while they were at school. If you don't take a dive I'll guarantee that someone will be stalking them every moment of everyday. One day when you least expect it, your child will disappear forever. Don't think moving or changing schools will help because they will find you."

Sometimes if they had caused the crime boss to lose a lot of money then a member of the wrestler's family might have an "accident" that caused them to die. As much as it pained him to leave his career long before retirement he could no longer stand the corruption that went on behind the scenes.

Leaving the wrestling ring however, turned out to be a harder task than anticipated. Sistina and Johnny failed to take into account that he had a life time contract.

"Excuse me, Tino, I hate to bother you but we need to talk."

"Come on in Johnny, I always have time for my employees what's on your mind?"

"I want out."

"What do you mean you want out?"

I want out of my contract. I can't do it anymore.

Johnny, you're upset you have every right to be. You feel betrayed and I can understand that. What Jeff did to you was unforgivable but you can't let it ruin your career.

Jeff was not the only one to betray me Tino. I know you were behind the threats to end my career if I did not take dives when told. Wrestling is just not the same sport.

Nonsense, the pubic now chooses who they want to win and we see to it that it happens other than that nothing has changed.

Wrestling use to be a fair battle between two men to see who is king of the mat. Now it's one big popularity contest. If you're not popular with the crowed then you lose. If you are getting older then you lose. My hearts just not in it anymore and let's face it I'm all washed up.

Then we will just have to find a new way to motivate you that all. Your new manager will see to it that you honor your contract.

You don't get it do you Tino? Nothing will make me want to wrestle anymore, I want out.

Trust me I have ways to motivate those who have lost their will to fight. For example you wouldn't want anything to happen to your wife would you? I hear she is expecting your first child. We wouldn't want any harm to come to her or the precious cargo she is carrying now would we? I can't guarantee her safety unless you agree to renew your lifetime contract.

Why you...Rotten, stinking, no good money grubbing...

There is no reason for name calling Johnny. It is not good business to release you from your contract. You are one of my best wrestlers and as long as you are popular and are in good health you will wrestle if you don't your family will suffer.

If you lay a hand on her so help me I'll.....

You'll do what? You'll kill me? Where would your wife and unborn child be then? It's nothing personal Johnny. It's just good business.

"You call threatening women and children good business? You are sick that's what you are."

"No Johnny, I am just a man who knows how to get what I want. You see Johnny you and many other wrestlers have lifetime contracts and I intend to make sure you don't quit on me. Believe me when I say I don't enjoy using this and other methods of persuasion but they get me the results that I want every time. If I win then you win if I lose then you lose it is as simple as that. Oh and don't worry about finding a new manager my daughter Lilith will see to your training personally. Remember Johnny, you fail to do as you're told your family will suffer the consequences. Do I make myself perfectly clear?"

Johnny bowed his head in defeat "Yes sir."

"I'm glad we understand each other Johnny. I look forward to watching your match. By the way your opponent will lie down in the third round. If he fails to do so remind him who the boss is."

"What do you mean sir?"

"It's simple; break his nose, his arm whatever it takes to remind him that I make the rules. Just make it look good; convince the audience that it is all part of the show. If you can't figure out how to get my message through then improvise break a few rules if you have to but make sure you are winning when told.

"Sir I ...."

"Do you have a problem with your instructions Johnny?"

"No sir."

"Good. Remember take your opponent down round three and Johnny, don't disappoint me. You won't like what happens if you disappoint me."

"Yes sir."

"Oh and Johnny don't worry about feeling washed up. Lilith will see to it that you are in as good of shape as you were when you first became a wrestler."

Lilith was there watching Johnny wrestle that very afternoon. "You call yourself a wrestler? You're pathetic! Don't give me the line I did my best because your best is not good enough! My grandmother can wrestle better than you and she's ninety."

"I won didn't I?"

"Excuse me? What did you say?"

"I said I won didn't I? If I'm such a poor wrestler than why did I just win the match?"

"Don't you talk back to me the other guy would have pulverized you if the match hadn't been fixed."

"Is that so?"

"Don't talk back to me boy! I think you need a little refresher course in manners. Boyz teach this ungrateful excuse for a wrestler just who is boss."

"It would be our pleasure!" With those words Lilith's thugs took turns using Johnny as a human punching bag. Soon both eyes were black and he had a fat lip. It was then that Johnny realized that Lilith was even crueler than her father. She was verbally abusive and if you spoke to her in the wrong tone she would make sure you regretted it for days. By regret I mean she would have her thugs teach you "some respect".

"That's enough boys I think Johnny's realizes his mistake. As Lilith tilted Johnny's face toward hers a satisfied smile crossed her face. You see Johnny; you either do things the simple way or the hard way it's up to you."

"Sorry I'm late, training took longer than expected."

"That Lilith is no trainer, she's a slave driver. Does she really expect you to be able to fight your best if you spend all of your spare time training? It's not healthy."

"I'm just feeling my age is all, by the way how was JR?"

"He was an angel and stop trying to change the subject! You need to tell Lilith enough is enough, she's working you to death."

"It's not that simple and you know it. You either do things her way or you're punished."

"Then go to Mr. Robbinso, I'm sure he can talk to her."

"He will side with her and you know it."

"Never the less, you need to speak with them."

"I will speak with Lilith first thing in the morning but don't get your hopes up."

Johnny was not looking forward to the conversation he was to have with his trainer Lilith, in fact he wished that he could avoid the conversation altogether. Lilith was not known for her compassion, things were done her way or not at all.

"To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?"

"I was hoping we could discuss my training schedule."

"Let me guess, your wife thinks that you are training too hard, am I right? There's no need to answer that's always the problem."

"Don't get me wrong your training program is great it's just that I'm not home as often as I would like."

"Let me make this perfectly clear if you are not willing to put your heart mind and time into your training then I'll to remove them so they are no longer a distraction. If you do not make it into the finals then I will retire you from the ring.

"Believe me Lilith, my family is not a distraction they are what makes me wrestle please don't retire me, I need this job to support my family."

"You need to decide what is more important to you, spending time with your family or having a steady pay check insuring that your family doesn't end up in the poor house."

"When you put it that way I guess my spending long hours training is what's best for the family."

"I'm glad you were able to come to your senses." After Johnny left Lilith decided to go and have a woman to woman talk with Sistina. "Cancel my appointments for today I am going to take the afternoon to get to know Johnny's wife a little better."

"Lilith, what brings you to our humble home? Is something wrong? Did Johnny get hurt?"

"Johnny is fine; however, I was wondering if Johnny has said anything to you about disliking my training program? I also wanted to congratulate you on your new arrival, you and Johnny must be so proud."

"Our son is our pride and joy as for your first question Johnny hasn't said anything to me about disliking your new training program. Is something wrong?"

"It seems that Johnny has lost the will to do his best in the ring. Do you have any ideas as how I can inspire him?"

"Between you and me, this whole ordeal with Jeff has taken a toll on Johnny. Jeff was one of his closest friends."

"Surely Johnny realizes that Jeff acted purely out of his own selfish desires."

"Johnny feels that the Wrestling Federation forced Jeff to choose between their friendship and his career. He believes that the Wrestling Federation blackmailed Jeff into betraying him."

"That is simply not true!"

"I'm sure your right, but as far as Johnny is concerned he just doesn't have the desire to work for a corporation that would put money before friendships and family. He felt that he was blackmailed into honoring his contract. His words were that he feels like a trapped mouse that is being forced to play a game of tag with a cat. Only time will heal the wounds of Jeff's betrayal and I'm not sure if he will ever truly recover from it."

"It seems to me, that you're the real reason his wounds are not healing. You're poisoning his mind. The Wrestling Federation does feel that friendships and family are important. We were just as hurt by Jeff's betrayal as Johnny was however; we are not going to let one bad apple ruin our image. We treat our wrestlers and their friends like family.

"The Wrestling Federation doesn't know anything about treating people like family! Family members don't demand loyalty and blackmail those who disagree with them; they love unconditionally something the wrestling federation doesn't have the ability to do. In order to love unconditionally you would have to have a heart and sadly, the wrestling federation's heart is as dark and deep as a black hole."

"Perhaps Johnny just needs to be reminded why he wrestles. I think all he really needs is to remember is that he wrestles for the welfare of his family not because of a stupid contract. However the only way he can come to that realization is if you are temporarily removed from the equation."

"You wonder why he believes that the wrestling federation is corrupt. It was the wrestling federation that told him that our marriage would destroy his career. It was the wrestling federation that almost broke up our marriage last year. The federation blackmailed him into honoring his contract instead of letting him deicide weather he still had the heart to be a wrestler. The federation had no sympathy when he told them that he felt betrayed. They told him that feeling would go away and they gave him the analogies of falling off a bike and forgetting how to tie your shoes."

"You get right back on the bike and try again. If you forget how to tie your shoes then you give it time and eventually you remember how it is done. They told him that he should handle Jeff's betrayal in the same way and that if he were to quit Jeff would have won. Who are you to decide that we need to be removed from Johnny's life? He should make that decision himself! When are you going to learn that interfering with people's personal lives is the same as betrayal? You are just like Jeff! Do you really think that you can break apart our marriage? Johnny and I love each other and we always will."

"Who said anything about breaking apart your marriage? I am only going to remind him that you are his inspiration his reason for wrestling. However, I can't do that if you are around. You are becoming a stumbling block in his path to the top. He needs to focus on his training and not worrying about you leaving him in his time of triumph. "

"Is that what this is all about? You think that I am interfering with your precious training program?

"I know that you insisted that he start training less."

"I was concerned for his health. You have been training him so hard that he is making himself sick. He needs to rest if he is to have the strength to wrestle."

"What he needs is to focus on his training so that he can be at his best for the championship match."

"Do you really think that removing my son and I from his life will make him want to train harder? I hate to burst your bubble Maria but I am not going anywhere."

"This was not a suggestion Sistina, you and your son are leaving. Weather you leave here of your own free will is your choice but one way or another you will leave."

"I know Johnny; he will not set one foot in that ring until my we are returned safely."

"That is not going to be a problem; he is going to think that you left him because he has been focusing on his training too much and you took Jr with you. Even if he were to find out that I had you kidnapped he knows that if I lose then he loses. If he wants to see you again he will do as he is told. You there, go get the baby and be careful not to wake the precious little one. We wouldn't want to interrupt his naptime."

"Stay away from my son! I swear if you harm a hair on his head I'll...."

Lilith began shaking her head making tut tut sounds, temper, temper, temper. You are in no position to be threatening anyone. As for your son, don't worry, he is in good hands I'll see to his care personally while your tied up."

Sistina who had been struggling began to beat at the chest of her captor. "Let go of me you big lummox!"

"I'm sorry about this Miss. Love; I'm only doing my job."

A few hours later, Johnny returned from training and was horrified to find that his wife and son's things were gone. As Lilith had ordered there were no signs of a struggle. He found a note was left on the kitchen table that read; I warned you that you had to choose what was more important to you, career or your family. You have made it clear that your career comes first and we come second. We are over! I am taking our son and I am leaving forever! By the time you read this we will be in another state. Perhaps when you realize that your career isn't as important as your family then I will return but I won't hold my breath! Lilith's evil plan worked, Johnny broken hearted, slumped onto the couch and cried himself to sleep.

"You are late."

"I'm sorry I had a rough night; my wife disappeared with our son without even giving me a chance to say good-by. I still can't figure out what made her leave."

"Perhaps she decided that it was best for your career."

"What are you talking about?"

"Maybe she didn't want to distract you from your training. I'm sure she knows that you need to focus your concentration on making it to the finals for the championship belt. Perhaps she felt that she and your son were a distraction."

"That is ridiculous! Sistina and Johnny Jr. are not distractions they are my inspiration she knew how much she and our son meant to me. That is why her letter doesn't make any sense. When I felt that I had lost all reason for fighting Sistina was the one who inspired me by helping me realize that I fight for my family's welfare. You're training program was the only thing that Sistina and I disagreed about. In fact, I remember you threatening to take her away if I didn't start concentrating. What did you do with my wife and son Lilith?"

"They are safe, for now."

"Where are they?" Johnny asked with a growl.

"I'm not sure at the moment. But don't worry, I am sure they will be fine provided you do as you are told Johnny."

Johnny his eyes blazed with fire and he had steam coming out of his ears. "I've had it with your childish games Lilith! This is not one of your fantasies you can't toy with people's lives like we were your dolls. Now I'm not going to play to ask again. Tell me again where my family is or I'll throw you out the window." When one of Lilith's thugs tried attacking Johnny from behind the counter attacked throwing the guy clear across the room. It didn't take him long to defeat all five of her body guards without even breaking a sweat. When he turned back to Lilith she was wearing a smile from ear to ear.

"I knew that beneath that nice guy exterior beat the heart of a worrier. All I had to do was find the key to unleashing the beast figuratively speaking of course. I warned you that if you didn't keep your mind on your training that I would remove your distractions. If you are to fight your way to the world championship match and finally become the world wrestling champion then you have to be completely focused."

"If you think I am going to set one foot into that ring without my wife and son you have another thing coming. I don't care about the championship If my family is not returned by sunset then I won't set one foot in that ring I'll simply forfeit each match to my competitor."

"You'll do no such thing! You have a contract to honor and you'll do as I say or you can kiss your family goodbye!"

"I'm going to go have a word with your father. He promised me that nothing would happen to my wife and son as long as I won and lost when told."

"If you insist on talking to him go right ahead, my father put me in charge of your career and gave me permission to whatever I deem necessary. Feel free to talk to him but like I said I am the one who makes the rules."

Not wanting to waste any time Johnny hurried to Tino's office. When he arrived as usual Tino's goons were guarding the door. "I need to have a word with Tino."

"Tino is a busy man he doesn't have time to talk to every wrestler who works for him."

"Tell him that this is important, this can't wait."

"Make an appointment he has left instructions that he is not to be bothered."

"I don't have time for this now get out of my way!"

"That is not going to happen so get lost!"

"What is all the commotion out here?"

"Sorry boss, this wrestler claims that he hast to talk to you and that it cannot wait."

"Johnny what a pleasant surprise what brings you by my office?"

"Can I talk to you?"

"You know that you can talk to me anytime. Why don't we step into my office and you can tell me what is going on. As soon as Johnny entered the office Tino shut the door and closed the blinds. What seems to be the problem?"

"Things are not working out between Lilith and I."

"What did she do now?" Tino asked with a sigh.

"She has kidnapped my wife and son. She claims that they will be safe as long as I make it to the championship match."

"Did you say that she kidnapped your wife and son?"

"Yes, and she has told me that if I don't win the championship that I will never see my wife and son again."

"Are you sure that you have been training your hardest?"

"I have been training nonstop for the past three months. She threatened to retire me from the ring because I asked her if I could spend a little more time with my family."

"That doesn't sound like my little girl are you sure that you never said or did anything that might upset her?"

"I only asked if I could cut my training hours down by a few hours so I could spend time with my wife and son and for some reason she seems to think that my wife and son are distracting me. I guess your daughter was not informed of the deal we made before she became my official manager."

"Remind me again what deal you are referring to."

"I had your promise that nothing would happen to them as long as I continued to please you."

"Unfortunately, your contract belongs to my daughter. If she feels that your wife and son have become a stumbling block it is within her rights to remove them."

"You gave your word on your honor that nothing would happen to them as long as I did as I was told. Does your word mean nothing?"

"My word is law if I guaranteed their safety, then they shall remain safe."

"So you will talk to Lilith about returning them to me?"

"As I said, it is within Lilith rights to have them removed from the ring if she feels that they are causing you to be distracted from your work however, she is overstepping her boundaries. She has no authority to cause them any harm. Your contract states that as long as you are training at least 40 hours a week and are following my directions concerning matches that you and your family can live in peace."

"I am doing everything humanly possible to keep up with your daughter's demands of me and still I do not please her. She has said that if I don't get my act together that my wife and son will suffer the consequences. I told her about our contract but she said that she has the authority to do as she pleases. That is why I came to you."

"There is no guarantee that she will listen to me, but if it will ease your troubled mind I will have a word with her. Until then I suggest that you do things her way. Be sure not to do anything to make her mad."

"Thanks for the advice; I had better get going I don't want to be late for my practice match."

"Don't worry I'll have a word with Lilith about making sure that your family returned to you safety by the championship match but there is no guarantee when Lilith makes up her mind about something even I have trouble changing it." Though this was not reassuring Johnny thanked Tino again and gave him a slight smile.

"What did my father have to say?" Lilith asked with a smirk her eyes sparkling in amusement.

"You own my contract and that he cannot interfere with your training program. However, he has promised to have a word with you concerning the safe return of my family."

"He's not going to say one word to me about your family. You are my employee therefore he has no say over the safe return of your family. Now are you ready to do things my way?"

"Why are you doing this to me? I have done everything you asked of me and more. I have made it to the finals. Isn't that enough for you?"

"You were losing focusing on our goal. You wanted a reason stepping into the ring and now you have one."

"What is it that you want from me Lilith?"

"It is all here in this contract."

"This contract says that once I make it to the championship then you will return my wife and son. No strings attached?" Johnny asked warily.

"It's all there in black and white all you have to do is keep your end of the bargain. Do we have a deal?"

"So, I have your word that once I make it to the championship my family will be returned?"

"That is what the contract says so, do we have a deal?"

"Where do I sign?" Johnny asked defeated.'

"Right here on the dotted line."

"It is settled," Lilith said with a smile. "You make it to the championship then your wife and son will be returned safely."

As he headed towards the ring he began to wonder if he could really trust Lilith's word. What if she refused to return his wife and son after the finals? Johnny realized that that he would have to find his wife and son before the match just in case Lilith decided to change her mind. After putting in his hours for training he went home to call Detective Catherina to seek her help once more.

"Hello Catherina, how are you doing?"

"Johnny what a surprise what do I owe the pleasure of your call?"

"I just called to see how is your agency was doing, I since you helped bet you have been swamped with cases. I can't thank you enough for helping me realize that someone was trying to end my career as a wrestler. I know that we wouldn't be where we are right now if you hadn't proven that she had nothing to do with my accident."

"Something tells me you didn't take time away from your busy schedule just to thank me for my services. Is there something wrong?"

"Are you currently investigating any cases?"

"I am working on few minor cases but nothing really important. You sound upset are you in some kind of trouble?"

"I'm fine but Sistina and the baby have been kidnapped."

"When did this happen?"

"I'm not sure the exact time but it was sometime yesterday afternoon."

"Have you received any ransom notes? Any demands at all? Have you contacted the police?"

"I already know who is responsible for their kidnapping."

Who is responsible?

"My new trainer, Lilith Robbins felt that Sistina and Johnny were distracting me from my training. She warned me that I had better meet her standards or she would make sure that I was no longer distracted."

"I should have known that Lilith was behind the kidnapping. What is her demand?"

"She wants me to make it to the world wrestling championship match. She has agreed that if make it to the championship match that she will return them. However, if I don't make it to the championship then I will never see Sistina and Johnny Jr. again. Will you help me find them?"

"I shall put my other cases on the back burner. I have dealt with Kathleen before and knowing her she won't just hand over your wife and son after you reach the finals."

"We have an agreement all I have to do is make it to the championship the contract says nothing about my having to winning the championship."

"Do you honestly think that Lilith will let you go all the way to the championship match and not win?"

"We had an agreement she agreed to return them after the finals."

"If I were you I would check the fine print."

Johnny did check the fine print and it stated that Lilith was able to change the contact at any point if she found cause to do so as long as Johnny was in the championship. "I shall get started first thing in the morning in the meantime, you must focus on your training and don't let Lilith know that you are aware that she is can change the contact."

Johnny worked really hard on his training and beat every one of his challengers within record time. "I am not pleased with you Johnny not pleased at all."

"I won! What could you possibly be upset about?

Lilith put on a fake smile. I suppose your right. Keep up the good work and you will see your family in no time."

"Lilith, can we talk about our contract?"

"Refresh my memory what contract are you referring to?"

"We had an agreement. If I made it to the championship you would return my family."

"The key word is had; I am altering the agreement. if you want to see your wife and son again, then win the championship."

"I have done everything you have asked of me and more what reason do you have for withholding my family from me?"

"I truly believed that you trusted me even when others said that I was a fool. I
gave you a chance and you used that chance to stab me in the back. Or are you going to deny that you hired someone to locate your family?"

"Nothing in our contract said that I couldn't hire someone to make sure that my family remained safe while I wrestle."

"I guess you didn't read the fine print. It says that I can change the contact whenever I see fit as long as I have a reason. You hired my archenemies to find your family that clearly means that you didn't believe that I would honor our agreement. Since you didn't trust me to honor our agreement, I see no reason why I shouldn't change the outcome."

"You win."

"I knew you would see things my way. You had better go home and get some rest. You will have to be at your best if you are to win against the New York Mobster tomorrow night."

"How did it go? Let me guess, she changed the agreement?"

"I now have to win the championship if I am to ever see my family again. How she plans on keeping me from finding them is beyond me."

"She'll kill them."

"That is going a little bit overboard don't you think? I know that she has a lot of money tied up in this match but she wouldn't murder my family over a few hundred dollars even she is not that heartless."

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news but she has killed people for owing her money. Do you remember Maria Pappaloochi?"

"Of course I remember her; we went to Jr prom together. Last I heard she had become the owner of a professional baseball team how is she doing?"

"She is dead; Lilith murdered her because she refused to pay her back for money she lent her."

"If Lilith had murdered Maria wouldn't she would be in Alcatraz right now?"

"She was arrested for Maria's murder however; she never made it to the police satiation."

"Why didn't the police put out a bulletin for her arrest?"

"The evidence proving she had been the murderer disappeared along with the arresting officer and the case file. My guess is that she used her father's connections to make the whole thing go away."

"Are you saying that Tino was involved with her escape?"

"Lilith's whole family is criminals. Although Tino claims that he runs an honest business he is in fact a mafia crime lord. He does a good job of fooling the police. My father tried for years to provide proof of Tino's criminal activities but he died before he could find substantial evidence. Lilith was raised watching her father's criminal activities. It wouldn't surprise me if she has even participated in some of those activities so I doubt that she would lose sleep if she were to kill again. Rest assured, I will not rest until Lilith's evil plans are thwarted and Sistina and little Johnny are safe at home."

"I think it would be best for everyone involved if you would forget finding them."

"What do you mean?"

"Lilith said that you were the reason she did not honor our original agreement to return them after the finals. She has promised to return my family safely if I win the championship and I agree to stop all contact with you."

"You can't trust her Johnny! What makes you so sure that she was going to honor your original agreement in the first place? You know that she would do anything to make sure that you win the championship."

"Still, I think that you and I should no longer have any contact until after this whole thing is over. In fact, I don't think that we should have any contact from now on. Please leave. I have a long day ahead of me and I would like to get some rest."

"As you wish Johnny, before I go though, I just want to remind you of what Coach R use to say at the end of each year in high school; the only thing that matters in life is having friends and family in which you can confide. If you ever have to choose between friends you know you can trust or friends who claim you can trust them think before you choose. When the year ends and you look back on the choices you made you may find yourself asking was it really worth it?"

"This is one of those times. I shall leave you with this thought, if Sistina were in your place right now who would she trust? Someone who has broken one contract already or a good friend in who has never let you down before? I have failed you as a private investigator instead of finding and returning your family safely I cost you their safe return."

"I don't blame you for Lilith's decision to keep them from me. I just don't see any other way to ensure their safety."

"I understand. Lilith has made it clear that I was the reason that they were not returned. She has offered you a second chance for your family's safe return. I know that I cannot grantee to find them in time. You have made it clear that you no longer trust me to insure their safety. I hope that everything turns out for the best. You shall not see or hear from me ever again as you have made it perfectly clear that you are no longer in need of my services and you no longer wish to be friends. I want you to know that I hold no ill will agents you. I would probably do the same thing if the situation was reversed. Good night Johnny and good luck tomorrow. I wish you the best of luck. May you come out on top.

"I don't want to end our friendship but Lilith has made it perfectly clear it's either you or them. They mean the world to me and if anyone was to see you then all hope would be lost. I would never be able to live with myself if anything were to happen to them you understand don't you?"

"Of course I understand I just don't think that you should trust Lilith. However, that decision is entirely yours. If you want me off the case then I shall honor your decision."

"Tell me that there is another way. Give me another option and I'll gladly take it. Tino has said that he will talk to Lilith about not harming my family and that he will make sure that she keeps her end of the bargain."

"I doubt that even he can keep her from harming them. Once Lilith's mind is made up not even her father can change it. That is what makes her so dangerous once she sets her mind to something nothing stops her from obtaining her goals. I could search for your family while you are wrestling in the match. I am sure Lilith will be focused on making sure you win and that will give me a chance to search for your family."

"However, I can't guarantee that I will find them before the match is over. If I fail it will most certainly spell doom for your family. I cannot guarantee that if you win she will return your family unharmed all I can tell you is that she has never been known to keep a promise. The choice is yours you can either trust Lilith to keep her word, or I can try and find them before she is given the chance to revise your agreement again."

"All I care about is my families safety. The only way I can guarantee their safe return is if you find them before the match is over. I don't care what the consequences maybe, I want you to continue your search for them."

"It is getting late you had better get to the ring before Lilith sends her henchmen to locate you. Don't worry about a thing I shall not rest until your family is returned safe and sound and good luck!"

After watching Johnny head towards the ring I decided to go check out Lilith's office to see if there were any clues to Sistina & Johnny Jr.'s whereabouts. Before I could do a thorough search Lilith's thugs arrived.

"Just where do you think you are going?"

"Did someone need an electrician? I received a call about a black located in this vicinity."

"We don't need any electrowhatcamacallit's?"

"I'm sure the call came from this vicinity. The call said that there was a blackout in the trailers here at the wrestling ring. It looks to me like you have a problem with your lighting in that trailer over there. I'll just take a look and see what's causing the problem."

"I don't care who you are you are not going near that trailer. We don't need any fancy eltrorwhachamacallits. We do not have any problems and even if we did we could fix it ourselves."

"I would advise agents that if I were you. If you are not properly trained and don't know what you are doing you could electrocute yourself. You had better let me take a look."

"I said get away from that trailer!"

"I think I found the problem. It sounds like you have large rodents probably either rats or raccoons. I wouldn't be surprised if they were building nests soon you will have a huge colony. This is going to have to be dealt with before they chew through all of your wiring. This can cause a fire hazard and soon this entire area will be in flames. I had better look and see if I can find the infestation."

"So you're an expert on rodents now are you? I thought that you were a eletorwhatchamacallit."

"For the millionth time I'm an electrician and I deal with rodent problems a lot in my line of business. As I was saying these large rodents chew through the wiring and then build large nests in your ceilings and floors. Not only do rodents cause fire hazards they also carry diseases and can get into everything from your floors to your refrigerator. You will have to locate the infestation remediably before they cause so much damage that it is irreversible."

"Do you really expect me to believe that you are an expert on electricity and that you happened to receive a phone call about a blackout? How dumb do you think I am? You are that meddling Detective that I was warned to watch out for. Mrs. Robbinso made it clear that you were to get nowhere near this trailer and if you showed up I was to teach you the consequences of getting involved in other people's business."

"I assure you, violence is not necessary; I am not interested in meddling in your bosses affairs. I am simply here to insure that Johnny's family will be returned safely."

"Johnny was warned that Lilith demanded respect and obedience from her employees. Johnny has been disobedient and disrespectful from day one. The boss warned him that his behavior was not going to be tolerated and would be dealt with in the harshest manner. He never listened and it has cost him his family. Even if he were to win the championship, it will make no difference. He has lost the privilege of having a family. From now on, his only family will be his fellow wrestlers. Perhaps when he learns some respect the Boss might consider allowing his family to return, but I doubt that will ever happen. Johnny is too stubborn and will never learn."

"If a hair on their heads has been harmed...."

"What are you going to do about it Detective?"

"I will see to it that every last one of you receives a one way ticket to Alcatraz."

"Is that all?? I am disappointed. I would have thought that you could come up with something a little more original."

"You won't be in the best of health when you arrive at Alcatraz."

"I am shaking in my shoes. Just what do you plan on doing lecturing us to death?"

"No. I am going to make sure that are going to be in need of medical assistance once you make it to Alcatraz."

"Promise, promises, you don't have it in you to carry out that threat. From what I hear you are a soft-shell and you are too much of a do-gooder to break the rules."

"Try me."

"Besides, you won't be around long enough to carry out that threat. You will not escape alive this time Detective. Now how would you like to die? The same way your father died, in cement shoes or do you prefer something less classic?"

"I have no intention of dying today or anytime soon for that matter. You know, I am a lot like Zorro, Robin Hood and Dick Tracy."

"How so?"

"I always come out on top no matter the odds. So why don't we do us all a favor and skip the fight. After all, we all know how this is going to end. You try to kill me, I avoid you, and you run out of bullets, then it's one on one combat. After a while of fighting you stop playing fair and have your brothers or some close friends join in the fight. Even when the odds are in your favor ultimately I win and am able to find Sistina and her son just in time. So what do you say, truce?"

"Forget it! I am not going to let you con me into allowing you to rescue Mrs. Love & her son. Besides this is reality not some science fiction novel, the Good guys always finish last and bad guys run the world."

"In what reality are you living in?"

"Enough!! No more playing games, say goodbye Detective!"

"Must we go through this every time we meet? Can't we just skip to the end? After all, we both know how this is going to go. You try and shoot me and wind up running out of bullets. Then it's one on one combat in which you fail miserably. At this point you call in back up ultimately I win and rescue the Love family with time to spare."

"Nice try. I'm not going to let you talk me into letting you escape. Now come on I don't have all day you know."

"If you insist on fighting then lets tango."

As I had predicted the guard tried to kill me and failed miserably. When he realized that he was going to lose the fight he called for backup. It did not take long for some of his friends to arrive and I was soon outnumbered 10 to 1. This was going to be quite the workout. After an half an hour the fight was over. I had won. "I told you that I was going to take you down. You always insist on doing things the hard way." With that I dusted off my hands and clothes and headed into the trailer.

"Catherina! How did you find us?"

"It wasn't that hard. I just looked for a place that was heavily guarded and knew that was where you were being held. Come on we don't have much time. I have to get you back to the ring before the match is over. By my calculations the match should be over in 5 minutes."

"What is going on? The wrestling season is over for the year."

"Johnny is wrestling in the World Championship match and is going for the title."

"He made it to finals? I hope he is all right. Lilith has been working him to death to make it this far."

"I know and if he loses the match she plans on making sure that you are never returned to him. She and her father have police on their payroll and she has filed kidnapping charges against you."

"I didn't kidnap my son."

"The police don't know that and if the police that handled the charges are on Lilith's payroll they won't care. As far as the police concerned, you are mentally unstable and are a danger to yourself and those around you. If you show up at the wring you will be taken into custody and have you locked up in a mental hospital for life. As for your son she has filed a petition with the state to have him sent to an orphanage to be adopted. She forged Johnny's signature on the papers stating that he wants what is best for his son and at much as it breaks his heart to give him up it gives his son a chance at a better future. This plan is being called operation broken sprit. As far as Kathleen is concerned once he loses everything he holds dear to him it will break his spirit and he will be her obedient slave."

"I don't care what problems we might encounter all I care about is J. J' and Johnny's safety. We need to get to the ring. I just know he will lose if I am not there to support him."

We arrived at the ring just in time to see Johnny in a pin that was almost impossible to get out of and it looked as if it was all over, Johnny had lost. However, just as the referee was about to hit the mat for the count of three Johnny spotted Sistina and it gave him the incentive to fight once more. In what seemed like an instant Johnny reversed the pin and had his opponent in an irreversible body lock. Johnny had won the championship. As he raised the belt in the air the crowd went wild. As Sistina hurried up the walkway I spotted a messenger running up to the security guard. The guard looked towards Sistina and nodded and I realized that he must have received instructions from Lilith. I called to Sistina to warn her but it was too late.

"Hold it right there Mrs. Love, I'm afraid that I cannot let you go any further. I have been told that no one is to enter the stadium until the fight is over. I'm sorry mam. There is nothing I can do."

"What are you talking about? That is my husband in the winner's circle and I am going to congratulate him like I always do now kindly step out of my way and let me through".

"I already told you mam, I have been given direct orders to not allow anyone into the stadium until the fight is over. I have also been instructed that should you arrive before the match has ended that I am to have you escorted to Johnny's dressing room for your own safety."

"That is the most ridiculous thing that I have ever heard! Now I demand that you let me through right now!"

"I don't have time to argue with you Mrs. Love. I am sorry but I am to take you to the dressing room weather you want to go or not." With that the security guard grabbed Sistina by the waste and heaved her over his shoulder.

"Unhand me and Put me down you big brute!"

Johnny, who was being interviewed on his big victory, looked around for Sistina. He wanted her to be part of the celebration by the time he spotted her she was already being hoisted over the security guard's shoulders. Although she kicking and hitting him with all her might he refused to put her down. Johnny's had fire flashing in his eyes as he pushed passed the crowed.

"Out of my way!!!"

"Why the hurry Johnny?" Pressed the reporters. "I have to save my wife!" The reporters just laughed until they saw the fire in Johnny's eyes. Now was not the time to upset the World Champion and in respect and fear the crowed parted so not to get in Johnny's way. "I'd hate to be the person he is after said one reporter. Let's follow him said another." Careful to keep their distance the reporters and photographers followed after Johnny to see just who he was pursuing.

Johnny caught up with the security guard just before he was about to toss Sistina into a car waiting outside. "Excuse me" said Johnny tapping the guard lightly on the shoulder. Before the guard had a chance to turn and face him Johnny punched him in the gut sending him flying into a nearby dumpster. The crowd gasped as Sistina went hurdling through the air. "That'll teach you to try and kidnap my wife" said Johnny as he caught Sistina in his arms.

"My hero" Sistina replied quoting several damsels from the old fashioned movies and to give the crowed what they wanted she gave him a great big kiss.

As the crowd responded with cheers and whistles Lilith pushed her way through the crowed her face beaming. "That was magnificent Johnny simply magnificent! Then she turned toward Sistina marvelous timing my dear! I couldn't have planned it better myself."

Johnny's smile turned into a snarl "what do you want Lilith?"

"Why to congratulate you of course! Now about next season..." Her voice trailed off as Johnny interrupted her.

"There won't be a next season."

"What are you talking about? Of course there will be dear."

"You just don't get it do you Lilith? It is over! Don't you understand we have had enough!"

"What are you trying to say???"

"It is over Lilith, I am through!!!

"If you still don't understand Lilith then read my lips" replied Sistina irritated, "we are done, fentio, finished, we don't need you any more in other words you are fired and we quit!!! Capuche??"

Lilith frowned and then after a few minutes smiled "oh I get it this is a joke right?"

"Do we look like we are joking? We are through with you and you're wrestling corporation!"

"You can't quit you signed a lifetime contract. You will fight until I decide that you are unfit to fight and believe me that won't be for a very long time."

"People are not property to do with as you please. If we want to leave then we'll leave and there is not a thing you can do to stop us."

"Is that what you think? Correct me correct if I am wrong, but you missing a member of your family are you not?"

"What have you done with our son?"

"He is sleeping right now safe and sound in the dressing room. Now where were we? Ah yes, you were saying that nothing could stop you from leaving. However, If I am not mistaken you have been missing for almost a month now have you not Mrs. Love?"

"What are you getting at Lilith?"

"The day after you disappeared I filed kidnapping charges agents you and warned then that you were mentally unstable. The police told me that hey would place the ring under surveillance and the moment you showed your face here you would be arrested. It is just a matter of time before they arrive and you will be sent to a mental institution for life. As for you Johnny, with your career and lifestyle your baby's life would be in danger. You have been deemed an unfit father. As soon as the police arrive your son will be placed in child services for his protection. I could of course vouch for both your characters."

"You would do that?" Sistina replies a bit shocked.

"Of course I would I'm not heartless. I always take care of my employees. After all, we are one big family."

Detective Catherina knew that Lilith would not do something so nice without wanting something in return. "There is always a catch, what do you want in return Lilith?"

"All I have is one request, don't ever talk of ending your contract again."

Johnny hung his head in submission. "You win Lilith, I'll do whatever you ask."

"You are giving up?" Exclaimed Sistina in disbelief.

"What other choice do we have? I almost lost you and JJ I couldn't bear if that were to happen again."

"We could fight this Johnny we don't have to play by her rules; Catherina can prove that I did not kidnap our son and that I am mentally stable. She will be a character witness for us both."

"Lilith's father owns this town and has almost everyone wrapped around their little fingers. Even if Catherine were to find evidence that you did not kidnap our son who would believe it?"

"You see Sistina, I am in control; I own Johnny mind, body and soul just like everyone else in this town."

It was at this point that I was unable to keep quite any longer. "You are a fool if you believe that lie, Johnny. True, she does run the town and she probably does have important people wrapped around her little finger but no one can own your soul. The only power Lilith has over you is fear. There are people in this town who will not be bullied by the likes of Lilith and her father. The question is are you going to let her run your life as if you were a puppet on a string or are you going to say enough is enough and refuse to have your life run for you? The choice is yours."

"Your right it is time I stopped acting like a coward! Now listen to me Lilith! You may have people who let you do whatever you please but I am not going to be one of those people anymore. In fact, I intent to tell the world just what kind of person you really are, a lying, conniving, ruthless, money grubbing power hungry monster. Who doesn't care how much you hurt people or if you ruin their lives just as long as you get what you want in the end."

"You are treading on dangerous territory Johnny. I don't think you realize the consequences of those actions."

"If it makes people aware of what you are really like then it is worth it. Sure I will lose my job and end up in the poor house but at least I'll have my dignity."

"Have you considered the possibility that it may end your life? You won't even survive the week if you mar my family's reputation. You will be at the bottom of a river by morning. As for Sistina, well with her police record for violence she will be lucky if she only sent to a mental institution." It was then that Lilith was interrupted by a police officer.

"Excuse me, I hate to be a bother but did someone call for police assistance?"

"Officer thank goodness you are here. Arrest her" said Sistina pointing at Lilith.

"On what charge?" Asked the officer giving Lilith a slight smile.

"Didn't you hear her threatening us?"

"I did indeed hear treats but they did not come from Mrs. Robbinso they came from you Mrs. Love. You have been charged with kidnapping your son if anyone is going to be placed under arrest it is you not Mrs. Robbinso."

Shocked Sistina realized the truth. "You're on Lilith's payroll. You are supposed to uphold the law and do what is right how could you except bribes and dirty money? You are nothing but a crook willing to ruin someone's life for some extra cash."

"There is no need for name calling Mrs. Love. You want to know why I was willing to be put on Mrs. Robbinso's payroll; it is because it doesn't pay to be an honest cop. Now, if you are through lecturing me I am going to have to arrest you."

"On what charges? I haven't done anything."

"You threatened Mrs. Robbinso and resisted arrest. However, before I take you downtown."

"I will give you one more opportunity to take Mrs. Robbinso up on her offer."

"Forget it! I would rather go to jail then be Lilith's slave for the rest of my life!"

"I am sorry you feel that way" replied the officer. "I think I had better call for backup this way my report that you resisted arrest will come across as legitimate" said the officer as he handcuffed Sistina. It did not take long for the officer's backup to arrive.

"What do we have here?"

"A kidnapping but I have the situation well at hand. It is an open and shut case I have the perpetrator right here."

"It's a lie officer, my wife is innocent she did not kidnap our son."

"Do you really think he is going to take your word over mine? I am a respected officer of the law, you are a wrestler. Everyone knows wrestlers can't be trusted. It is a known fact that you people say anything to get what they want."

"I am afraid that I agree"  said the new officer.

"She is innocent! If you won't take my word on that officer then take her word" said Johnny pointing at me.

The Officer shrugged and turned back towards me to hear things from my point of view. "You have worked alongside my father on many projects and you have been there when I have proved Sistina innocent three time before. If you recall, the first time Sistina had a run in with the law she was under arrest for murdering Christy Pappoloochi. Upon further investigation, I proved that the true murderer was Lilith Robbinso. She escaped and fell off the raider. Does it not surprise you that she became involved with her father's Wrestling ring?"

"What does that have to do with this case?" Asked the arresting officer who was starting to get nervous.

"Sistina was also placed under arrest for supposedly causing the disappearance of her ex-husband Jimmy. He turned out to not only be alive but also be the new boss of Al Capone's mafia."

"I fail to see what significance this information has on this case" said the arresting officer who was starting to sweat.

"I am getting their officer."

"We don't have all day Mrs.???"

"MacKeena. Detective MacKeena. I understand that you are very busy. I just wanted to make you aware that Sistina has been accused and arrested by the police on several occasions in which she was innocent every single time. Lilith Robbinso is a known murderer and when things were not going according to her plan she had both Sistina and JJ kidnapped."

"That is ridiculous! Mrs. Robbinso is an honest business women she has no criminal record."

"I am afraid that is where you are wrong partner. Lilith Robbinso is wanted for murder. I wouldn't put it past her to create a false report. I am sorry for the mix up Mrs. Love. Where is Mrs. Robbinso? I would like to have a word with her."

"I tell you Sistina is guilty! She resisted arrest and she threatened Mrs. Robbinso." The Officer replies.

"As soon as she is found, Mrs. Robbinso will be placed under arrest again."

"Mrs. Robbinso is innocent, that Detective must have forged the evidence!"

"I have known Detective Catherina all her life. One thing I know without a shadow of a doubt is that she never does anything to contradict her morals. If you are accusing her of being corrupt then it is obvious that you have been deceived."

"I think that your relationship with the Detective's father is blind sighting your judgment. How do you know for sure that this Detective is really on the level?"

"Are you accusing me of being immoral? I have never let my personal relationships affect my judgment. If you are going to accuse a fellow officer for doing the right thing then perhaps you are not as honest of an officer as you claim to be. Lilith Robbinso is a wanted criminal. Fan out boys we must not let Mrs. Robbinso get away again." It did not take the police to locate Lilith and in moments she was in cuffs. She glared at the arresting officer as she was lead to the car outside.

"That is what I get for hiring a rookie like you instead of someone reliable. As for you Detective, you had better watch your back. This arrest will never hold up in court and I will be back on the streets in no time."

"I don't know what you are referring to Mrs. Robbinso. Had I known about your criminal record earlier I would have arrested you when you first approached me. I would never have put an A.P. B. out for this innocent woman. I am so sorry for the inconvenience Mrs. Love. Can you ever forgive the mistake of a foolish ambitious rookie?"

There was no need for Sistina to reply the officer shook his head and answered for her. Detective Catherina was right all along. It is so sad when an officer of the law chooses money over justice. Take him into custody boys for obstructing justice and taking bribes."

"Wait! You can't trust a word Mrs. Robbinso says after all, she is a criminal she will say anything."

"Nice try rookie but there is no way I am falling for that after all, I am not that easily fooled." With that the officer took placed the rookie alongside Lilith in the squat car. As he turned to leave,  he called out "good work Detective. I look forward to working with you in your next case."

"I don't think my next case will be as interesting as the ones that I have solved already. Perhaps I am ready for a real challenge it is too bad that Moriarty is just a fictional character it would be fun to take on someone like him."

"With you Detective, who knows what will happen! You may just get your wish!" With that the officer took off down the street.

"How can I ever thank you Detective?"

"You just did. Just do me a favor Sistina, try to stay out of trouble from now on."

"Hay this is Sistina we are talking about. When does she ever stay out of trouble?" Johnny replies. With that we all laughed.

"Well, that wraps up the case of the kidnapped family. Until next time This is Detective Catherina Mackeena signing off."