Jillian's Escape

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Jillian's Escape

Jennifer Falk


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Jillian's Escapeby Jennifer Falk

Copyright 2003

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Table of Content | i

Table of Contents

CHAPTER ONE ..................................................................................................... 11

RISING FROM THE ASHES............................................................................ 28

BREWING STORM ............................................................................................... 34

BREAKING THE CLOUDS.................................................................................. 40

THE PUREST LOVE............................................................................................. 74

A BRAND NEW DAY ............................................................................................ 81


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Chapter One | 1

What am I doing here? Jillian questioned her sanity as she

pulled into the big parking lot.

A building ahead loomed like a fortress as Jillian Elliott took inthe sights around her. The imposing structure in its picturesque setting

resembled a medieval castle. The building was constructed of red

sandstone and bristled with turrets and false battlements. Battlement-like

guard towers, rising above the four corners of the wall and the beautifulmountain backdrop, completed the picture of a grim fortress.

A brick and stone monument near the entrance read: Hillcrest

Correctional Facility, Effective Correctional Services through Teamwork

and Dedication. A knot began to grow in her stomach as she turned off

the ignition of her car.

Slowly, Jillian opened her car door and stepped out of her green

Saturn. As she walked across the lot to the reception entrance, she

stopped in front of a grove of trees surrounding a memorial. Her throat

tightened as she read the inscription on the marker, In honor of those

individuals who lost their lives defending the honor of Hillcrest. We will

never forget your ultimate sacrifice protecting the safety of our state.


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As Jillian left the memorial, she began to question her decision to

take on the position at such a dangerous place. She had three small

children at home. She wondered who would care for them if something

were to happen to her. As the woman arrived at the reception door she

took a deep breath and reached for the handle.

Once inside, she stepped over to the desk, where an officer took

her name and directed the pretty auburn-haired woman to take a seat inthe lobby.

Lt. Johnson will be right out, Officer Evans said, smiling

reassuringly. Welcome to Hillcrest. We are glad to have you here.

Jillian returned the womans warm smile as she turned around to

seat herself in the waiting area. She had just set her purse on the chair

beside her when she heard the soft click of the door behind her. Quickly

she turned to see a tall, uniformed man standing in the doorway.

You must be Jillian? the man inquired, smiling at the woman in

front of him.

She quickly rose to her feet and walked to the doorway where

Lt. Johnson was waiting for her. He held his hand out to shake


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Chapter One | 3

Jillians hand, her pale skin a striking contrast to the mans deep

ebony complexion.

Jillian forced a nervous smile as she quietly said, I am

pleased to meet you, Lt. Johnson.

The tall man led Jillian through the doorway into the hallway behind it. While the

two waited to be allowed through the entrance into the facility, the lieutenant looked at the

young woman and chuckled. Just call me Tom. In our office it is hard to stay formal for too

long.

While Tom and Jillian walked down the long corridor to the medium custody

compound, she felt the knot in her stomach begin to loosen as Toms tour and stories about his

time in the correctional facility began to set her fears at ease.

The young woman was amazed by the attractive charcoal drawings that lined the

walls leading to the control center. These drawings were all made by our inmate arts &

crafts classes, Tom told Jillian with a glint of pride in his dark eyes.

At the end of the hallway, the officer and the young woman came to a stop in front of

a large steel and glass sliding door. This is the control center, Tom told his curious new

employee.

As the door slid open, Jillian and Tom stepped into a room where a glass bubble

greeted them. Suddenly, there was a loud slam as the door shut behind Jillian, and she jumped

in surprise. Tom removed his identification card from his wallet and held it to the window for

the officer inside the bubble to see.


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Always show your ID here. That is a facility policy to protect all of our safety, he

said reassuringly in her direction. Jason, this is Jillian, my new office manager. She replaced

Kelly.

Officer Green smiled down at Jillian and said, You are working with the best in

the place. I worked with the lieutenant in the segregation unit, and there is no better.

As Tom put his card back into his wallet, he smiled at Jillian. Are you ready for

your tour of the facility, young lady?

Her stomach tightened as she nodded tentatively at Lt. Johnson. Im ready as I

ever will be. She nervously chuckled.

Jason, we are headed into the Max first. Little lady here didnt get a tour in

training, and I feel it is important she get a feel for the place before I drag her into our little

dungeon.

Officer Green nodded and opened the first sliding door to the maximum security

facility. Once Jillian and Tom were past the door, it slid shut with a loud bang. Once closed,

the outer door slid open slowly, leading them to an enclosed walkway.

Jillian followed Tom with hesitating steps as they walked along a sidewalk towards

the maximum unit. On either side of the sidewalk, Jillian saw electric fencing preventing

inmate access to the main path into the administration building they had just left.

Tom glanced at Jillian, sensing her nervousness. To our left is the max yard. All

of the inmates in max custody have a certain color on their ID card. That color signifies their

yard time. They are allowed that time, and no other, he said, smiling.


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Jillian nodded as he continued. To our right is one of our private industries. This

particular one makes inmate clothing for every correctional facility in the country. We are

quite proud of the fact that we have had that contract for almost twenty years.

Jillian was silent while Tom led her to a post a hundred feet ahead of them. When

they reached it, an officer greeted them. Lieutenant, what brings you to this part of our world

today? We normally only see you on Tuesdays now that you have your cushy desk job, the

officer asked, laughing.

Gates, glad to see you. This is our new office manager, Jillian Elliott. Im just

taking her on a little tour to get her familiar with where we work. You might see her from

time to time if Sergeant Hendricks is unable to pick up our disciplinary reports, Tom told

Officer Gates.

The officer smiled at Jillian. You will like it here. We have some of the best

people you will ever have the pleasure of working with.

Thank you, Jillian said, smiling. I hear that everywhere.

Tom smiled as he and Jillian continued on their way. He pointed to a tall brick

building to their left. That is H dorm. The inmates that live there are normally very well

behaved, and that is the last step before they are sent into medium custody. You wont hear

much from them. To our right you will see our E cellhouse. That is our treatment dorm.

Two types of inmates live there; protective custody inmates, who you will hear called PC

sometimes, and our mentally ill patients that we cant allow in general population. We tend to


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get a lot of reports on the mentally ill patients, but we handle them very differently. Ill talk to

you about that later.

Jillian was amazed by the number of inmates walking around them as Tom

continued the tour. She always thought that criminals were locked in a cell all day, not

walking around free as birds. The streets reminded her of going shopping downtown. If she

didnt watch out, she would bump into someone.

The next building on our left, Tom continued, is the clinic and mental health

services building. That is one of the busiest buildings on the compound. To the right of us is

the chow hall. Our hearing rooms are in the lower level of that building. Christopher and

Cynthia spend a great deal of their time here, so if you are looking, you know where to find

them.

That is good to know, Jillian said quietly, still absorbing everything around her.

As Tom and Jillian reached then end of the walk, he pointed to the left of them at

two dark buildings. The far building is A unit, the closest one is B cell house. Regular

maximum inmates live in these two buildings.

He turned to the right and pointed to two more buildings, The unit nearest to us is

D dorm. That is our restriction unit for inmates who have misbehaved and we have taken

away privileges, like television and electronics, yard time, or whatever. The farthest one is C

cell house. That is where segregation, which you will come to know as seg, is located. Seg is

the worst of the worst. The inmates in that unit are only allowed out for an hour a day, and

only under the closest of supervision.


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A look of amazement appeared on Jillians pretty face. What do you mean,

inmates we have taken privileges from? TVs? This is prison. Why do they get TVs?

Jillian asked, stunned.

Tom chuckled as he looked at Jillian. The first thing you have to remember when

you work here Jillian is we are not punishing these people, we are simply segregating them fro

society. Some of these people live better lives inside the walls than if they were back on the

streets. Also, get over the belief that you will always see an officer and will have an escort

whenever you need to come inside. We have enough officers to loosely monitor the compoun

but not enough to know what is happening at all times.

Jillian nodded quietly and pointed at the building in front of them. And what is

that?

Why, that is the old administration building you had your training in. It looks

much different from this side, doesnt it? Right inside this door is the captains office, which

you might need to go to from time to time. Ready to go to our office now? You can always g

a more detailed tour later if you want. Tom said warmly.

Im ready, Jillian said, taking one last look at the various units around her.

They walked quickly back the way they came until they again were at the control

center. Officer Green quickly opened the doors, and soon Tom and Jillian were inside the

building where they again showed the officer their identification. Tom turned to a single door

overlooking a beautiful courtyard. The door to the medium courtyard opened and the officer

led Jillian out to the stairway leading below.


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Jillian saw five buildings just across the courtyard. Signs were on four of the

buildings, each one with a different letter. K, L, M, Q, she read.

More housing units? she asked Tom curiously.

The officer nodded, and said, Yes. The letter on each one designates which unit it

is. The building in the middle is the medium chow hall and activities center. This area will be

your home as long as you work with us, he smiled.

The young woman was impressed by the strong presence her new supervisor exuded

as he led her down the sidewalk that would take them to a building with a sign on the

window. Jillian stopped momentarily to read the sign posted and saw that it said,

Disciplinary Office, Restricted Area.

As Tom opened the door to the office, the sounds of playful

bickering could be heard from inside. Jillian and Tom rounded the

corner to the room just in time to see a man with short, dark thinning

hair and a mischievous grin hurl a paperclip in the direction of the

heavyset woman seated at the desk across from him.

Im telling you, you just dont listen to a thing I say! the man said, laughing with

a glint in his eyes.

Laughing, the dark-complexioned woman fired back, Why should I listen to you?

You never say anything worth listening to anyway!


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Jillians jaw dropped in amazement at the sight before her. Tom cast a glance in her

direction, and sensing her discomfort, he cleared his throat to announce their presence in the

room.

Good morning, Tom said to the mischievous pair seated at the desks in the back

of the room.

At the same instant, both heads turned their attention to Tom, who chuckled in

amusement. Jillian, Id like for you to meet my childrenerr, my hearing officers. The goo

guy with the glasses is Sergeant Christopher Hendricks, my second in command. Sitting at th

other desk is Corporal Cynthia Meyers. Dont let them bother youactually we are a great

group to work with.

Hey! Im the nicest person I know! Cynthia said, laughing.

Jillian couldnt help but laugh out loud after Cynthia spoke. Every fear she had of

working at the facility melted with the humor that surrounded her.

Tom looked at the officers sternly. Now I want you both to be nice to our new

manager, he told them, smiling.

Christophers eyes twinkled mischievously as he joked, I promise Ill be good for at

LEAST five or ten minutes!

In that moment, the pretty young woman was drawn to the man in front of her.

Christopher was not what most would refer to as attractive, but there was such uniqueness

about him. His hazel eyes were alive, revealing his every emotion. Christopher had a warm


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and engaging smile and just being in the room with him captured Jillians heart in a surprising

way.


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Chapter One The sound of the alarm clock shattered the stillness of the morning.

Jillian stirred from her restless sleep to glance at the red glow from the clock across the room and, through her blurred vision, read 5:30. Clumsily, the young

woman sat up and let her legs drop to the floor from the edge of the waterbed.

Jillian yawned as she turned the television on to listen to the news while

she readied herself for another long day at work. In the dim light from the

television she glanced across her bed to see her young son, Adrian, lying

peacefully on the bed next to the wall, quietly snuggled up to his teddy bear. A

serene smile was on his lips, and Jillian wondered what the little boy was

dreaming.

The pretty auburn-haired woman got up and walked across her

bedroom to the walk-in closet. She reached into her closet to select an outfit to

wear to work that day. A secretary by trade, Jillian prided herself on choosing

the perfect outfit everyday, and she had a top-notch knack for that. After

much thought, she settled on a mint-colored dress suit and headed to the

bathroom to prepare for another long day.

* * * *

Jillian Elliott was an average, ordinary woman leading an average,

ordinary life. She was voted most likely to remain the same by her senior

class in high school. The observation wasnt that far off, either. In the ten


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years since she walked down the aisle to receive her diploma, the only thing

about her that had changed was her hair. Shortly after she graduated from

Pineview High School, she lightened her dark brunette hair to an attractive

auburn hue, one that complimented her deep brown eyes and pale skin.

At twenty-eight, Jillian was the proud mother of three beautiful

children. She was married to the All American Guy and they lived in an

average home in a small town high in the mountains. She lived the American

dreambut underneath the faade, a different picture emerged.

Life in the Elliott household was often painful. Jillian and her husband,

Michael, had a strained relationship. The All American Guy wasnt

everything everyone thought him to be. His handsome dark eyes could turn

angry and cold at the drop of a hat. The wide engaging smile could turn to a

grimace of rage in an instant, and Jillian lived in constant fear of what his anger

could bring.

In the beginning, life was filled with love and laughter, Michael doting

on his pretty young wife. Jillian would arrive home to find bouquets of flowers

and cards for no other reason than that he loved her deeply. When she would

check her voice mail, she would find loving messages from her husband, telling

her that she was his everything and he wanted to spend the rest of his life with

her.


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No mother could ask for a better father for her children. Michael

would spend hours with the children, teaching them to read and write, or simply

playing games with them. He was active in their education, speaking with their

teachers every afternoon when he picked them up from the school. At their

soccer games, Michael was their biggest fan, cheering them on in their victories

and consoling them in their losses.

But as the years passed, things began to change. Another side of the

man began to emerge, a dark side that frightened Jillian. The loving gestures

ended, replaced with uncontrollable rage and hatred.

The man had begun to control every aspect of the Elliott household. If

Jillian wanted to take the children out, if they left their small hometown to go to

the city, it came with a great emotional price. Michael would berate his wife for

not staying closer to home. Jillian would often catch him checking the mileage

on their car or checking her email messages to see who was contacting her. The

woman had begun to feel as though she had become a prisoner in her own

home.

Work had become a release for the young woman, an escape

from the debilitating headaches and stomach pains that she felt the

moment she began the trip home each night.

* * * *


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Working in a prison is not like working on the outside, Christopher

said seriously. Things arent quite as they seem in here. Even when you think

an inmate is being honest and trying to change, you always need to be aware

that there usually is an ulterior motive.

Jillian nodded, listening carefully to the advice Christopher gave her.

After a moment she asked, How do I know what to believe then?

Christopher chuckled softly. Honestly Jillian, you dont. The faster

you learn that, the faster you will learn how to survive in here. To be honest, it

isnt just the inmates you need to look out for here. You will find in time that

there are quite a few officers you need to look out for as well.

A puzzled look appeared on Jillians beautiful face as she tried to

comprehend Christophers words. What are you trying to tell me? That the

officers are in with the inmates? she questioned.

There are some officers that have allowed the inmates to turn them

Jillian, Christopher continued. There are officers here that have become

entangled in the web the inmates weave. In time you will become used to

hearing about officers being walked out of the facility for many reasons. Some

have brought in drugs and alcohol. There are some that have even brought

weapons in to the inmates. But the ones that sicken me the most are the ones

that end up being caught up in a relationship with prisoners. I couldnt imagine

in my worst nightmare doing that.


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I thought officers would know better than that, Jillian said. Why

would they bring in weapons anyway? Arent they afraid the inmates will use

them against them?

Christopher looked at the confused look on Jillians face. He paused to

think about her question before he finally spoke. It isnt that they intend to get

hooked up with the inmates Jillian. It all starts so very small. An officer has a

good porter and he wants to reward him with something from his lunch, so he

gives it to him, thinking it is very innocent. Next thing you know, he is bringing

in marijuana. Why? Because thatnice inmate threatens to turn the officer in for

breaking the policy.

For giving them something nice? Why would they do that? Jillian

said, shocked.

Christopher nodded. Yes. Remember one thing. An inmate looks

for an open door at every opportunity. If you give them an inch, they will take

100 miles. Dont give them that chance. That is all I am trying to tell you.

Silence filled the room as Jillian thought about everything Christopher

had said. For a fleeting instant, she wondered if she had made a mistake. A

mother shouldnt risk her life everyday working around murderers and rapists.

A mother should work in a nice quiet office.

Sensing Jillians discomfort, Christopher smiled at her warmly. Are

you hungry? Ill buy. he said, chuckling.


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* * * *

As Christopher and Jillian walked along the streets towards the dining

hall, a tall man with dark, unkempt hair stood with his back against the clinic

wall. The man watched the woman closely, intrigued by her auburn hair and

her fair skin.

Fifteen years had passed since Andrew Stewart had first walked into

Hillcrest Correctional Facility. A career criminal, he raped and beat his younger

sister to unconsciousness when he was ten years old. That was the beginning of

juvenile prisons and group homes for difficult children.

Years of treatment programs did little to curb the violent sexual

fantasies that raged within Stewarts mind, and before he was twenty he had

raped over thirty women. On the night before his twenty-first birthday, the

demons overtook him completely. By the time Stewart came out of his rage, a

young girl lay lifeless in his arms, the victim of his dark urges.

As Stewart watched Jillian walk gracefully in front of him, he felt a

stirring grow within him. He wondered what she was doing with Sergeant

Hendricks.

Stewart had quite a history with the hearing officer. He had seen the

sergeant many times before. In fact, Stewart had only been out of the hole

for five days on a battery charge, and he was still angry at the officer for sending

him there.


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Drawn by something he couldnt understand, Stewart left his place in

the pill line. He followed the couple, listening to the womans gentle laugh as

she talked to the officer. Eagerness overtook him as he imagined feeling her

silky skin next to his.

As the officer led the woman into the civilian dining hall, Stewart began

plotting a meeting with her. I have to have her , he thought.

* * * *

Jillian was in the middle of a report when the telephone rang.

Disciplinary Office, how may I help you? she answered.

An angry voice on the other end of the line said, Why didnt you write

a check for the kids this morning?

Michael, this isnt the place for this! I am at work! Jillian said

desperately. Cant we talk about this when I get home?

Christopher looked up from his hearing notes as he heard Jillians

panicked response. Concern filled his eyes as couldnt help but hear the fear

enter his friends normally gentle voice.

Dont tell me to wait girl! When I tell you to do something, I want

you to do it now, and not when you feel like it. You need to learn that I call the

shots, not you. So if there isnt a check ready for those kids first thing in the

morning, you will have to deal with me, Michael ordered angrily.


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Sobbing softly, Jillian answered her husband quietly. I will take care of

it. I just thought it wasnt due until tomorrow. I didnt mean to upset you

sweetheart, honestly.

Just make sure it doesnt happen again, Michael barked.

The line went dead and Jillian hung the phone up quietly. Tears rolled

down her pretty face as she went back to her work. Her vision blurred as she

struggled to see the computer screen in front of her.

Across the room Christopher sat silently watching Jillians shoulders

shake nervously. He had become increasingly worried about her as the weeks

had passed. Michaels angry phone calls were growing in frequency, and the

effect they had on Jillian was becoming more dramatic. She would go from

animated and happy one moment to quiet and reserved as soon as she heard her

husbands voice.

Christopher wondered to himself what went on in the Elliott

household when Jillian went home at night if her husband could reduce her to

quiet sobbing with a simple phone call.

After a few minutes, Christopher left his desk and walked across the

room to sit in the chair in front of Jillians desk. She looked up from her work,

tears still glistening in her deep brown eyes.

Do you need something Christopher? she asked quietly.


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Christopher smiled at Jillian warmly. Nope. Just wanted to check on

you. Do you want to talk about what just happened? he asked seriously.

Jillian wiped her eyes nervously and answered, No Chris. I have to

handle this by myself. I just forgot to take care of something for the kids last

night is all. It wont happen again.

A sense of dread overtook Christopher as he watched Jillian make

excuses for her husbands anger. This wasnt the first time he had seen a

woman hide abuse, and he knew it wouldnt be the last, but for some reason he

couldnt understand, he was deeply concerned for Jillians safety.

If you change your mind and want to talk, you know where I am,

okay? Christopher told her.

Jillian smiled and looked into Christophers eyes warmly. Maybe I will

sometime. I just cant talk about it right now.

The man reached across Jillians desk and patted her on the shoulder.

I am here for you, he said sincerely. In his heart, he prayed that she would

take him up on his offer. Jillian needed to talk to someone, and he only hoped

she would open up to him. Christopher wanted to help her, if only she would

let him.Chapter Two

Christopher looked up from the docket to see Jillian walk through the

office door. She walked quietly to her desk, putting her purse in a drawer. She

turned on her computer and silently began to bury herself in her work.


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Deep in Christophers heart, he knew that something had happened

between Jillian and Michael the night before. She normally came into work so

exuberant and warm, not distant as she was now. After a few moments,

Christopher allowed his concentration to return to his work.

Jillian quietly distributed mail into boxes for her co-workers, and then

returned to her desk. A large stack of inmate files was among the mail, and

relief settled over Jillian as she thought about processing the cases for inmate

distribution.

With such a large workload, she was confident that her mind wouldnt

have a chance to drift to Michael. She wouldnt have to think about the fight

the night before. Jillians thoughts wouldnt dwell on the fear she felt as

Michael came after her with his fists clenched in anger. She could just

concentrate on the work at hand, and she knew her day would pass quickly.

Quietly, Jillian began clearing her desk so she could begin separating

the files. She picked up a coffee cup that was home to a stuffed teddy bear, a

gift that Adrian gave her so she would think of him when she was working, and

moved it to a shelf beside her desk. Next she collected her small photos of

Chrissy, Mel and Adrian. As she moved the small frame, she was alarmed to

discover a photo missing.

Chris? Jillian asked, panic evident in her lovely voice. Have you

seen the photo of the kids and me? It is not here, and I know it was here when


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Chapter One | 21

I left last night. Lt. Arnold was looking at it yesterday afternoon, so I know it

was here, but I cant find it anywhere now.

Christopher looked up from his paperwork, only to see confusion upon

Jillians face. Are you sure you didnt accidentally take it home last night? I

know you took quite a bit of work home with you. Could it have gotten mixed

up with any of that? Christopher asked her reassuringly.

Jillian shrugged, as she reached into her carrying case. She flipped

through her paperwork, only to find that the photo wasnt there either.

Dont worry, Jillie, Christopher said, smiling. I am sure it will turn

up. You know that things just get misplaced in here sometimes. We always

find them sooner or later though.

A sense of relief settled over Jillian, as she remembered that just

recently, Cynthia misplaced a recipe book that she had brought in to share with

everyone. She was convinced that someone had taken it, but in the end, it

showed up in a filing cabinet. Jillian began to feel silly for thinking someone

would take something so trivial.

Thanks Chris, Jillian said, chuckling. I cant believe I overreacted

that way. Im sure it is here somewhere.

It will. Things always do here in the wacky world of Disciplinary,

Christopher said, laughing.

Are you about to head into the Max? Jillian asked curiously.


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Collecting his paperwork, Christopher nodded. We have a pretty

heavy docket today, so I do have to head in soon. Ill call you later though so

you can meet me inside for lunch if you want me to.

Jillian smiled warmly and answered, That sounds terrific. I just need

to get started on these files but I will plan on doing lunch. Have fun playing

with the inmates!

Oh yes, I always do, Christopher chuckled.

* * * *

As Christopher walked along the streets to the Max Hearing Rooms,

his mind drifted to the troubled look he had seen upon Jillians face that

morning. She seemed more and more troubled as the days passed, and he felt

powerless to help her through her problems.

As he turned the key to the heavy steel door, Christophers attention

snapped back to the matter at hand, dispensing justice to almost thirty inmates.

He turned the light on and walked over to the desk across the door, setting the

docket down in the surface before him. Quietly, Christopher shuffled the

papers about, sorting them in order of cell houses.

When Christopher finished, he began calling the inmates for hearings,

starting with A cell house.

A Unit, Sergeant Anderson, a voice answered.


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Chapter One | 23

Glancing at the cases in front of him, he said, This is Sergeant

Hendricks. Could you send me a few for courtlines?

Christopher heard the rustling of paper from the other end of the

phone. Yes Chris, who do you need? the officer answered hurriedly.

I need Smith #79801645 from cell 135, Andrews #68402143 from

123, Anthony #56021943 from 214, and Stewart #72301923 from 231.

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

You wake up on the wrong side of the bed? Christopher asked Jillian,

concern filling his voice.

The young woman glanced at her friend from across the room. Pain

was evident as she answered, We had a really rough night. Michael is

beginning to scare the children and me. He just gets so angry sometimes, and

Im not sure how much longer I can take it

The normally jovial man got up from his desk and walked across the

room to Jillians side. He stepped up behind her, rubbing the young womans

shoulders gently. Softly Christopher asked, What are you going to do? Have

you talked to him about seeing a marriage counselor?


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Hot tears rolled down her pretty face as Jillian pondered the difficult

question. After a long silence, she hesitatingly said, I think I am leaving. My

kids are afraid to be kids. Every noise sets him off. Most weekends, I take the

kids anywhere, just to keep them away from him and out of his hair. This isnt

a life for anyone

Pain filled the mans heart. In the seven months since Jillian first

walked into the office, he had developed feelings for her that he couldnt

explain. He hadnt felt this strongly for anyone since his wife had moved out

two years before. The vibrant woman stirred emotions he thought were dead.

Watching Jillian so upset and scared was almost more than his heart could bear.

Christopher looked at the distressed woman and told her sincerely, If

you ever need to talk to someone, Im here for you. I know how you feel right

now. When Karen left, I felt like my world was coming to an end.

A rush of emotions gripped Jillian as she gazed into the

concerned eyes of her friend. No one had been concerned with her

feelings in so long that she had forgotten what it felt like. Confusion

settled over the woman as she was filled with both the pain of losing

her marriage, and the warmth that Christophers concern brought her.

The young woman was unsure looking back why she fell in love with

Michael. Jillian was ten years his junior, and her husband felt the need to be a

surrogate father. He would lecture her over the slightest thing. Jillian liked to


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Chapter One | 25

travel too much. She spent too much time talking to her family. She forgot to

turn off a light. Many times Jillian thought Michael had been single for too

long, and he was too set in his ways when she met him. The anger remained

hidden until the woman moved in with him, and it had only escalated in the

years that followed.

In comparison, Christopher was a polar opposite of the man Jillian was

married to. He was also older than Jillian, twelve years to be exact, but he had a

playful nature that made him seem much younger than his forty years. He

couldnt resist knocking things over on Jillians desk each time he walked by,

and he had a way of making her laugh when the world seemed its darkest. His

personality was unique, and it made him attractive in a way that overshadowed

his average looks.

There was a sensitive side to Christopher as well. His life had been

filled with more turmoil than most could bear, but it only strengthened his

resolve. It was these qualities that had drawn Jillian to him as her months at

Hillcrest passed. She was finding as she became more attracted to Christopher,

she drifted more and more emotionally from Michael.

* * * *

Jillian unlocked the heavy steel door to the office and turned to turn the

light on. Tom was teaching an annual training class that morning, and Jillian


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26 | Chapter One

knew that she would be alone until Christopher came in with the morning

reports.

She enjoyed the early morning quiet of the office. The silence gave her

time to collect her thoughts before dealing with the inmates and officers, and

peace before the phone began ringing. Tuesday mornings were her favorite

time of the week, as it was the only day that she had that time to herself.

She walked silently around the office, reveling in the silence. As was

her morning routine, she unlocked the door to the copy room. She turned on

the coffee maker and collected the radios for the officers, and when she

finished setting up for the morning, she walked to her desk and sat down to

relax.


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Chapter One | 27


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28 | Rising from the Ashes

Rising from the Ashes As Christopher pulled out of the parking lot, his mind

wandered back to Jillians difficult home situation. He couldnt

imagine what the young woman could have done to cause her husband

to treat her in such a disrespectful fashion.

The man remembered the teachings his mother had instilled in

him. Women are to be treated with love and respect, not anger and

hate.

Then, in an instant, Christopher was drawn to another time and place,

to the night nine years ago when the ring of the telephone broke the peaceful

silence of the night.

Glancing at the clock on the nightstand, Christopher wondered who

would be calling him this late at night. It must be Elizabeth, calling to tell him

that she had decided to stay at her parents house after all.

Nothing could prepare him for the words he was about to hear.

A gentle voice spoke to Christopher from the telephone, asking him,

Is this Mr. Hendricks?

Panic began to set in as he answered, Yes it is. May I help you?


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Rising from the Ashes | 29

My name is Nurse Bradshaw, and I work for St. Patricks Hospital in

Glenbrook. There has been an accident, and we need for you to come as

quickly as possible to be with your wife. Just enter through the emergency

room entrance.

The phone went dead in Christophers hand. In a daze, he called his

parents and asked them to sit with his young daughters, Alexis and Kaitlyn

while he went to the hospital.

Looking back, the man couldnt remember the forty-five minute drive

to the hospital. His mind went numb, as he thought of his beautiful wife alone

in a hospital bed, possibly dying.

As soon as he walked into the emergency room, the duty nurse rushed

him to Elizabeths room, and Christopher barely recognized the woman he

loved. Monitors beeped softly around her and tubes covered her, making her

unrecognizable. Her lovely face was covered with dark bruises and deep cuts.

Grief overcame the man, as he dropped to his knees on the floor

beside her. For hours, Christopher sat in the chair beside Elizabeths bedside,

not moving as he listened to her shallow breaths.

The days that followed were a blur of doctors and nurses, police

officers and detectives. Christopher learned that it had been a drunk driver,

celebrating the winter holiday season, that had collided with Elizabeths silver

convertible that snowy night.


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The day before Christmas, the doctors came to Christopher with the

news he didnt want to hear, but knew in his heart that were coming. As he sat

holding Elizabeths hand while the doctor turned off the life support machines,

he couldnt help but think about the fact that a cloudy day always made his wife

incredibly sad. As the life ebbed from her young body, the sky was dark and

gray as a blizzard waged outside.

The man cried softly as his thoughts sprang forward to the night his

second wife told him that their marriage of five years was over.

Christopher had given up on love when he met Karen. She was five

years younger than him, and she had brought a renewed life to the man,

bringing him out of his grief. Karen was unable to have children of her own,

and she fell in love with Alexis and Kaitlyn, adopting them, and being the

mother they no longer had.

Although their marriage was rocky at times, Christopher adored Karen,

and struggled working long hours to put her through law school and to provide

for his family. It came as a complete shock to him when his wife told him one

night just after dinner that she was leaving him for a man almost half his age. It

was a blow that almost crippled him emotionally.

He could feel the pain as clearly as the night he sat his precious

daughters down to tell them their stepmother was moving out. Even today,


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nearly two years later, Christopher would often awake to one of his daughters

sneaking into the bed with him after yet another nightmare from losing her.

Hot tears burned his cheeks as he made his way to the highway exit.

As Christopher turned onto the street leading to his apartment, he cleared his

mind from the past.

He glanced at the clock on his radio. It was 5:30 and

Alexis would be waiting for him at the door for soccer practice. It

was time to be a dad.

* * * *

A pretty face greeted Christopher as he opened the door to their

apartment. Hi Dad! We gotta hurry. Practice starts in twenty-five minutes!

The man was always amazed at how much Alexis and Kaitlyn looked

like their mother. Christopher was more amazed at how quickly they had

grown up. Alexis would start high school in the fall, and at fourteen, she looked

far older than her years.

One evening after leaving her with a friend, Kristin, he came home to

find his daughter looking like a freshman in college. Kristin had played make-

up with Alexis, and applied make-up and styled her hair. The result was

stunning, and one he hoped to not see again until Alexis was in college.


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The youngest member of the Hendricks household, Kaitlyn, was a

polar opposite of her effeminate sister. Katie, a true tomboy, was active in

sports and wanted nothing more than to spend time with her friends. At ten,

she still believed that kissing boys was yucky and hadnt yet reached an age

where she believed that her dad wasnt cool.

Life was complete for the man and his two lovely daughters. With so

much activity, there was never time for them to dwell about the pain of not

having a mother in the house, and Christopher was content to raise his

daughters alone until Alexis and Kaitlyn left for college.

Dad! Hurry up! Alexis yelled from the front door. Christie and

Stephanie are waiting!

Christopher opened the refrigerator door and grabbed a soda, and then

turned to his daughter, laughing. I dont think 30 seconds will cause you three

any lasting harm.

With a sigh, the girl frowned. Dad, you are so uncool.

The man shut the door and followed his daughter to the door. Come

on Katie, we dont want to make Alex late, do we?

The younger girl came racing down the hall and bumped into her older

sister. We wouldnt want to do that! Not since Kyle will be there!

A sense of dread came over Christopher as he followed the girls out of

the apartment. Boys already, he chuckled to himself, as he shut the door.


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34 | Brewing Storm

Brewing Storm The car slid to a stop in the long, graveled driveway. As Jillian turned

off the ignition to her car, suddenly she was gripped by a stabbing pain in herabdomen, which left her doubled over in agony. The young woman was getting

used to the bouts of pain. They were becoming an every day occurrence now.

As she turned the key in the back door lock, Jillian wondered what she

would do to anger her husband on this seemingly quiet night. She stepped into

the house and stepped quietly, so as not to awaken her husband, who should be

resting up from working the night before.

As Jillian rounded the corner to her bedroom, she saw Michael sitting

on the edge of the bed. As he saw his wife, the mans face contorted in anger.

Jillianwhat is the meaning of this $15.00 in roaming calls on the cell

bill this month? he bellowed at his pretty wife, the cellular phone bill dangling

from his tight grasp.

The young woman began shaking in fear as the look in her husbands

eyes became cold and vacant. Terrified, Jillian answered, Dont you

remember? I warned you that the bill would be higher this month because I

used the phone to call you when the children and I went to see my parents two

weeks ago.


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Brewing Storm | 35

Michaels face was dark as he snapped at his wife, I told you to stop

spending so much money! Doesnt it matter to you how much I sacrifice for

you and the kids?

Crying hysterically, Jillian begged, Michael, please calm down! Think

about the children! They get so scared when you get this way!

The sobbing only angered Michael more as he pushed the woman away

from the closet door, swinging it forcefully. He grabbed the hangers with his

clothing, flinging them into his suitcase lying open on the bed.

Jillian slid to the floor, her back against the wall. Tears burned her face

as she cried, If this is what you want, I cant stop you. It is obvious that I am

not the woman you thought you married. I am sorry that I failed you.

Michael looked at his pretty wife curled up in a ball against the wall,

and in an instant, realized what he was doing to her.

Oh JillieI am so sorry! I dont deserve you and the kids. I dont

know why any of you put up with me, Michael said sorrowfully.

The man held his hand out to his wife, lifting her to her feet gently. He

held her tightly, sobbing, Forgive meeverything is all my fault.

In an instant, Jillian forgave Michael for all the pain he had caused her.

But deep in her heart, she knew the time was coming when she and the children

would have to leavethe risks of staying were too great.


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36 | Brewing Storm

* * * *

The radio played softly as the woman washed the tears from her lovely

face. Jillian knew that she had to regain her composure before she went out

into the family room to meet the children.

Turning off the bathroom light, the young woman decided to change

out of her dress suit and into a shirt and a pair of jeans. Settling upon a

beautiful turquoise polo and jeans, she quickly changed, and headed towards the

family room.

As Jillian walked into the room, her little towhead, Adrian came

running towards her. Mommy! the five-year-old shouted, arms outstretched.

Of the three children, Adrian was the most attached to his mother, the

only one who was content to spend hours sitting beside her, whether she was

working on her laptop or reading the newspaper. The little boy was handsome,

with a wide engaging smile, and twinkling sky blue eyes, and he could charm

anyone with his contagious laughter.

Hey baby! Jillian said, smiling at the bouncing boy. Were you a

good boy at daycare today?

Uh huh! I got to play with the big kids today Mommy! We went to

the park!


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Brewing Storm | 37

A sense of pride settled over Jillian as she looked down at her son.

You did! That is so neat! Chrissy and Mel, anything exciting for either of

you?

The stunning blond girl across the room looked up from her video

game. Nah, pretty boring again as usual, Christina said, frowning.

Shes just mad because Dillon was sick! teased the girls impish little

sister.

Dillon? Jillian said, curiously.

You know, Dillon Jones, Chrissys boyfriend ! Melissa volunteered.

The woman frowned at her oldest daughter, not ready for words such

as boyfriend used in the same sentence as Chrissy. Jillian had begun to worry

that her nine-year-old was growing up way too fast. Christina was a beautiful

child with delicate features. Her blond hair perfectly framed her pale face, and

her blue eyes sparkled whenever she flashed her gorgeous smile. Jillian

anticipated many long years as boys discovered the beauty of the young girl.

The woman didnt have any of these fears with her youngest daughter.

Messy Mel was more comfortable at a soccer or basketball game, and in her

eyes, boys were a nuisance that pulled on her pigtails.

Like Jillians two other children, Melissa had hair of gold, but her hair

was wild and unkempt. The woman was always amazed at how quickly the girl

would get dirty, always looking as if she hadnt seen water in months, even after


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38 | Brewing Storm

starting the day clean and fresh. Melissa had a bubbly personality and Jillian

couldnt help but imagine the seven-year-old as head cheerleader in her future

school years.

Okay little Miss Tattle-tale, how was your day? Jillian asked Melissa,

laughing.

It was good. We went to the pool and I jumped off the diving board

twice! Melissa said proudly.

Jillian grinned at her daughter and said, That is great Mel! You are

doing much better in swimming.

Looking at the clock, the woman realized it was time to start dinner.

Are you guys hungry? Lets go cook some dinner!


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Brewing Storm | 39


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40 | Breaking the Clouds

Breaking the Clouds The spring months turned to summertime, and Jillians inner turmoil

grew. Each day, the feelings she felt for Christopher deepened, as the gulf between her and Michael grew. She had begun to feel as though she was

sleepwalking through her life, and her emotions had become dead.

Jillian lived each day for the brief time she had with Christopher, when

she felt alive. Her heart raced when he walked into the office, and the man

always knew exactly how to make her smile. There was an odd connection

between the two, something neither of them could explain.

As the days passed, Hillcrest became her sanctuary. Jillian had found a

place where she felt needed and wanted, something that she rarely felt when she

returned home to the two-story Colonial home she shared with Michael.

Sometimes when she lay awake at night, she thought about how ironic it was

that she worked in a prison, when she felt as though she lived in one too.

Inside the red brick walls at Hillcrest, the young woman felt a strange

sense of freedom, a feeling that she had forgotten during her tumultuous

marriage to Michael. Emotions that she had thought were gone were racing

back to her, and she felt alive.

Jillian had begun to dream again. Eight years of anger and

hatred had extinguished her hopes and dreams, leaving her often in a


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Breaking the Clouds | 41

dark haze that clouded her emotions. Being around Christopher had

lifted the cloud, allowing her to see the world in sparkling color,

leaving her filled with a peace that was calming and reassuring. She

could see a future filled with love and happiness, a future of hope.

Along with this renewed hope brought Jillian budding courage

to fight back at the walls of her marriage. She decided that no longer

would she allow her husband to dictate the terms of her existence,

instead she would regain control of her world. As her car pulled away

from Hillcrest on a sunny Friday afternoon, she decided it was time to

get away.

Jillian saw Christina pushing little Adrian on a swing as she

pulled to a stop beside a green pickup. When the children saw their

mother, they began running to greet her, laughing and smiling.

Mommy! Adrian yelled happily.

As soon as Jillian emerged from the car, she quickly found the

towheaded little boy jumping into her arms with excitement.

I missed you Mommy! I found a frog today!

The woman smiled warmly at her son, remembering a time

when he was afraid of all new things, and now Jillian found herself


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wondering each night what insect or small animal the boy would have

found that day to add to his small zoo.

What kind of frog did you find, sweetie?

Excitement filled Adrians voice as he spoke. It was a neat

tree frog, Mommy! Want me to show you?

The boy ran off before Jillian could open her mouth to answer,

and in a flash, she saw the boy running towards her holding a shoebox.

Look Mommy!

The woman looked into the shoebox to see a dark green frog

staring back at her. She chuckled softly as she looked down at

Adrians sparkling face. He is really neat.

The boy closed the lid and grinned at his mother proudly.

Thank you Mommy!

Do you know where your sisters are? We are going on a trip.

Jillian smiled at her son.

Where are we going Mommy? Adrian asked excitedly.


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The woman was filled with happiness as she watched the

enthusiasm in her sons eyes. Wherever the road takes us. Now go

find the girls!

The boy scampered off, yelling, Chrissy, Mel! Were going

on a trip!

* * * *

You look especially happy today Jillie. Did you have a good

weekend, Christopher asked the woman warmly.

Jillian gazed deeply into her friends eyes, flashing a sparkling smile.

Yes, it was terrific! I decided who cares what Michael thinks. I took the kids

on a road trip when I got home on Friday night, and we didnt get back until

late last night. I know I will probably have hell to pay when I get home tonight,

but it was worth it. We just needed to get away, to be a family, to be us. There

was no yelling, no screaming, just us together, the way we should be.

Im so glad for you. You deserve to be happy. I guess what bothers

me the most is that you allow your husband to bring you down. You need to

learn that you are too good of a person to allow anyone to make you feel like

you arent, the man said, gazing into Jillians eyes deeply.


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I know Chris; I just get so depressed sometimes. It is hard when

everyday you are told how you have failed. Failed as a wife, failed as a mother,

failed in every way. It is hard to not feel as though you are nothing.

Pain filled Christophers heart as he looked at the deep brown eyes, the

soft pink lips and the ivory face of the beautiful woman in front of him. As the

months had passed, Christopher found it more and more difficult to maintain a

distance from this woman he cared so much for. It hurt him to think that

anyone could treat her so badly, when he wanted so much to take care of her.

Jillie, dont let him make you feel that way. You havent failed him, he

has failed you. You work in a place you hate in order to make sure you can help

him with your bills. You come home and care for the kids, make meals, clean

the house. How can you say that you have failed? You allow him to golf when

he wants, you never leave without the children, you never complain when he

goes out with his friends. To me, you are the perfect wife.

Warmth filled Jillians heart as she listened to Christophers assessment

of her marriage. She thought about the things she had allowed in the ten years

she had been married to Michael, and all she had given up. Love wasnt about

anger and pain; it was about warmth and giving, support and caring.

If only I had met Chris ten years ago, the woman thought to herself.

Terror in the Streets


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The sky was a rainbow of color as Jillian arrived at Hillcrest, creating a

beautiful picture with the snowcapped mountains in the distance. Only the

razor wire marred the scene to indicate that this building was the home of

criminals of the worst kind.

Christopher had called her as she was leaving for work. He told her he

had to take Alexis to a doctors appointment, and he wouldnt be in until later.

Can you pick up the disciplinary reports? he asked her.

On her way to the office, Jillian made her way to the Captains Office

to retrieve the reports, as she had promised Christopher. As she passed Tower

One, a sense of anxiety took over. In their quiet office, Jillian was sheltered

from the reality that she did work in a prison. On a daily basis, she didnt have

to spend any time with the inmates, didnt have to wonder what crime had

brought them to spend time in Hillcrest.

As Jillian passed through the main gate into the streets of the

maximum custody unit, she gazed at the buildings around her. When she took

the job at Hillcrest, she believed there would be fences between the walkways

and the prisoners for the protection of staff and that there would always be

guards to observe the inmates constantly. It was only after she began working

at the facility that she discovered that she was wrong.

Hillcrest Correctional Facility was like a small town. As Jillian walked

in the streets, she always was reminded of a trip she went on to New York City


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as a child. The cellhouses resembled apartment buildings, and the bars on the

windows only enhanced that memory. The only thing missing was the fast

moving traffic speeding by at every hour.

Jillian didnt often see officers on her trips inside the walls of the

maximum unit. She had learned that there were far more prisoners in the

facility than staff, and that the few yard officers couldnt watch every inmate at

every moment. As Jillian continued her walk to the Captains Office, inmates

were walking about her, returning to their dorms from morning chow.

Hey Baby, I can take better care of you than yer man can, an inmate

hollered at her from behind a fence.

Another man slapped him, shouting, Dont listen to him. Hes a fool.

Im dope and I can give you whatever you want.

Nervously, Jillian quickened her step, as an uneasy feeling settled across

her. She was less than 100 yards away from her destination when a tall man

with dark, unkempt hair stepped behind her. Panic overtook Jillian as she felt a

sharp point press into her lower back.

Hey Babe, whos yer Daddy? I can be if you let me, he said,

breathing hotly upon the terrified woman. Come with me and I wont hurt

you.

Jillian glanced fearfully along the streets, looking for an officer to seek

assistance from, but there was no one to call out to.


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Walk to the maintenance shed girl, the man growled low under his

breath. Jillian realized she had no one to turn to, and she reluctantly began

walking towards the shed.

The stone buildings towered above them as they reached a utility shed

behind the Dining Hall. Jillian felt a sharp pain in the hollow of her back as the

man pressed the point further against her. He quickly opened the door of the

shed and forcefully pushed Jillian inside.

Once inside the dimly lit building, Jillian heard the door slam violently.

Her head was spinning in terror as the man threw her against the metal of the

wall. Through blurred vision, Jillian saw the mans identification card that read,

Stewart #72301923.

Stewart felt a throbbing hardness grow as he roughly squeezed Jillians

sensitive breasts. He began to move his knife along the feminine curves of her

body, pausing for a moment at her most secret place.

Dont mess with me girl. Im doing life and killing you dont scare me

none, the man growled at Jillian.

The woman began sobbing quietly. She looked up at the mans face

and saw only anger and hatred in his eyes. What do you want from me? she

asked, fear evident in her words.


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Angrily, the man answered with the words Jillian feared the most. I

want you, Babe. Fifteen years is an awful long time to expect any man to be

away from a woman, and you will just have to do.

Terror filled Jillian as she cowered against the wall. Stewart moved

closer, and pressed his body against hers. Savagely the man captured her mouth

with hungry urgency as Jillian fought the urge to vomit. The mans salty odor

sickened her as tears ran down her flushed cheeks.

Violently, Stewart parted the womans trembling lips, darting repeatedly

inside her mouth, making sweeping and swirling motions. His strong hands

moved down to her beautifully formed breasts, stroking them angrily.

The man quickly cut the buttons on Jillians silk shirt with his metal

knife, exposing her pale mound of fragrant flesh. He freed her plump breasts

from her lace bra, as the woman felt evidence of his arousal against her waist.

Jillian became limp in Stewarts arms as her vision blurred and the world around

her became dark.

* * * *

When the woman awoke, her head pounded violently. She felt a

strange dizziness and confusion as she slowly pushed herself to a kneeling

position and rose weakly to her feet.

As Jillian looked at her unbuttoned slacks and blouse, the reality of

what had happened to her returned, and she began sobbing uncontrollably. She


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sank to the ground and crawled into the corner of the room, afraid to move for

fear that Stewart was still waiting for her.

Glancing around the room, she saw a desk across from her, and she

crept silently until she was hiding beneath a dark gray chair. Slowly she rose to

her knees, grabbing the telephone. Quickly she dialed Christophers extension

in the office, desperately hoping he had returned from his earlier appointment.

A friendly voice from the phone answered, Disciplinary Office,

Sergeant Hendricks.

Emotion flooded over Jillian as she sobbed, Chris! I need you!

Jillie? Where are you? You never came in today! Are you okay?

Christopher asked fearfully.

Jillian became silent as she heard the handle of the door turn and she

slid below the desk. Help me! Hes coming for me! she whispered

desperately.

Where are you? Are you in the building? the man said, his fear

growing as he suddenly began to realize Jillian might in fact be somewhere

within the walls of Hillcrest.

The door opened and an officer stepped into the room. He heard the

quiet sobbing from beneath the desk, and quietly walked across the room to the

corner where the desk stood. He peered underneath and was shocked to see


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the auburn haired woman cowering under the desk, tightly clutching the

telephone receiver.

Miss? Are you okay? the officer asked her fearfully.

Christopher overheard the male voice from the telephone and spoke

softly to Jillian, comforting her. Jillie, are you okay? Who is in the room with

you?

The woman shrank further under the desk, sobbing uncontrollably.

Officer McKay, confused as to what to do for the woman, asked quietly,

Maam, may I have the telephone?

Panic overtook Christopher. He was unsure what had happened to

Jillian, if she was hurt, if she was in the building, if the person that had scared

her so deeply was in the room with her. Jillian, talk to me. Tell me that you

are okay. Who is in the room with you?

The woman froze, unable to move, dropping the phone to the floor.

Officer McKay moved slowly towards Jillian, picking the phone up from the

floor.

This is Officer Steven McKay. Is this an inside call?

A flash of relief came over Christopher. Jillian was with an officer. She

would be okay. Im Sergeant Christopher Hendricks. Is Jillian okay?


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Officer McKay glanced down at the woman cowering in fear. He

wasnt sure whether she was okay or not, or what he should tell the officer on

the other end of the line.

We are in the Max Maintenance Shed. I came in to get some tools for

the work crew and found the lady hiding under a desk. She wont talk to me,

and I am not sure what has happened to her. Do you know who she is?

Fear overtook Christopher again as he answered Officer McKay, Her

name is Jillian Elliott, and she is the Office Manager in the Disciplinary Office.

Ill be right there. Call an emergency code over the radio.

Officer McKay heard a soft click as Christopher hung up the phone.

He grabbed his radio and said, Medical emergency, Max Maintenance shed.

Medical emergency, Max Maintenance, Clinic, do you copy? a voice

said from the radio.

The officer reached out to help Jillian out from under the desk and she

trembled violently. He jumped back quickly and wondered what had happened

to the pretty woman.

Less than five minutes later, Christopher ran through the door,

followed by the shift lieutenant and the medical staff.

Officer McKay stood up from behind the desk, and walked over to the

men standing by the door. Call a nurse, he whispered to the lieutenant. I

think she has been assaulted.


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Christopher rushed over to the desk, kneeling down to see Jillian curled

in a fetal position, sobbing uncontrollably. Quietly he said to her, Jillie, Im

here.

The young woman looked up fearfully, and saw Christopher kneeling

beside her. He held out his hand tenderly, enticing her from under the desk.

Jillian crept slowly towards Christopher, reaching out to grasp his hand tightly.

As she emerged from her hiding place, he held her close to him, feeling her

shake in his arms.

Waves of pain overtook Christophers heart as saw the pain in Jillians

eyes. Until this moment, he hadnt realized how much he cared for this woman,

how much she had captured his heart, and now he was watching her suffer

terribly and he wanted nothing more than to take her pain away.

Lieutenant Matthews, I am going to stay with her. No one sees her

without me by her side. She needs someone she trusts right now, Christopher

whispered to the officer in charge of the investigation.

Lieutenant Matthews nodded and cast a concerned glance at the

woman sobbing in Christophers arms.

A concerned friend

As Christopher promised Lieutenant Matthews, he was beside Jillians

side as the officers attempted to speak with her to ascertain what had taken

place inside the shed that morning.


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Jillian hadnt spoken since she phoned Christopher four hours earlier,

and she hadnt moved from his side. The investigative officers were unable to

get her to look up from the floor as they attempted to question her, and she

didnt speak as the paramedics moved her into a waiting ambulance.

The trip to the hospital was filled with muffled sobs as Jillian sank into

a deep shock, and her mind became cloudy. She was unable to comprehend

what had happened to her, or where she was. All she knew was that

Christopher was there, and he would keep her safe. She was confused why he

was with her, but his presence was strangely calming to her.

Once they were shown to a hospital room, Jillian allowed the doctors

to examine her, but she screamed in terror when they suggested that it would be

better if Christopher waited in the hall outside. She clutched his hand tightly as

the investigative unit took the crime scene photos and as the nurse performed

the rape kit.

When he attempted to leave the room to place a call to Michael, she

became hysterical and inconsolable, and the man realized that he would have to

send someone to call the residence. Someone needed to call his brother, Craig

to have him pick up Alexis and Kaitlyn too. Jillian needed him.

Watching his friend in so much pain was difficult for the man, and he

felt powerless to ease her immense pain. He was gripped by anger as the doctor

confirmed his worst suspicions, Jillian had been raped.


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The investigation was going to be difficult for the officers. Without a

statement from Jillian, it would be almost impossible to determine which inmate

had kidnapped her on that July morning, and it was highly improbable that any

of the other convicts would come forward of their own free will.

Shortly after midnight, Jillian finally succumbed to exhaustion, and fell

asleep still tightly clutching Christophers hand. He was able to loosen her grip

to leave for a few moments to take care of some important phone calls.

The first call Christopher knew he had to make was to Michael. The

Lieutenant had radioed Control to notify him that something had happened to

his wife, but twelve hours later there, he still had not contacted the hospital to

inquire as to her condition. This deeply troubled Christopher, and he wondered

what kind of man could leave his wife in a hospital without even ensuring that

she was okay.

Nervously Christopher dialed the number to the Elliott residence. He

hadnt wanted to call so late, but every time he suggested to Jillian that he call

Michael to let him know how she was doing, the woman became agitated and

began sobbing.

A tired voice answered the phone. Hello?

Anxiety was strong in Christophers voice as he spoke. Mr. Elliott?

My name is Sergeant Christopher Hendricks, and I work with your wife at


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Hillcrest. I am sure that Control contacted you earlier to inform you of the

incident this morning?

A hint of annoyance was apparent as Michael answered, Yes they did.

They told me she would be okay. Now I need to get back to sleep. The kids

have to be at swimming lessons in a few hours.

Christopher heard a click and the line went dead. He was stunned by

the disinterest that Jillians husband displayed towards the danger Jillian had

narrowly avoided. The man could have very easily killed the young woman, and

would have never been apprehended. What angered Christopher more is that

his heart was breaking watching Jillian lying so still in the hospital bed and he

had only known her eight months, a fraction of the time Michael had known

the woman.

Christopher glanced at the time on his watch. 12:30. He needed to

telephone Craig to check on the girls, and let him know when to expect him

home.

Craig had been sitting at the computer checking email, waiting for

Christopher to call him to update him about what had happened. He answered

the telephone on the first ring, Chris, is she all right?

I honestly dont know. She hasnt spoken since she called me. She

just holds my hand and cries. I wanted to call earlier, but she just becomes so

freaked out I dont know quite what to do.


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Craig was concerned for Christopher. The last time he had heard his

brother this upset was the night he drove to the hospital after Elizabeths

accident. He sensed that somehow Christopher felt more for Jillian than the

mere friendship he spoke of. Craig had noticed that in the past few months,

Christopher had changed. He seemed happier, more at ease, and he had

wondered what had led to this dramatic change. Now Craig had no doubts, it

was the woman he spoke so highly of.

Has her husband made it in yet so you can come home? Craig

inquired.

Anger filled Christophers voice as he spoke. No he hasnt. I just

called him to let him know how Jillie is doing, and the bottom line was he

wasnt even concerned. He just said he had to go back to sleep. I have no clue

to life how he can sleep while she is here in the hospital after being hurt. What

kind of man is he?

Craig understood his brothers pain, confused by what he had just

heard. Have the doctors decided when they are going to release her? he

asked.

Christopher was silent for a moment as he remembered speaking with

Jillians physician. His voice was filled with concern as he spoke, Dr. Jameson

said that there is nothing physically wrong with Jillie, and will probably release

her first thing in the morning. Im just not sure if I should let her go home. It


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was obvious to me when I spoke with Michael that he isnt exactly supportive

of her right now. Not if he couldnt even be bothered to visit her here. What

do you think I should do?

Without hesitation, Craig answered his younger brother, Bring her

home. From what you have said, you are the only one she trusts right now.

You have plenty of vacation time, and I can take the girls for a while if you need

me to. She needs you.

She needs you. No three words had ever sounded more comforting in

Christophers life. Those three words had in a single instant erased years of

pain and longing, replacing them with a feeling of hope and warmth. She needs

you.

Do you think it is right for me to bring her to my place? She is

married after all. That cant be the best thing for her, can it? Christopher

asked, seeking reassurance.

Chris, you know in your heart what is right, and sending her home to

that man obviously isnt, Craig answered quickly. She needs someone to take

care of her, and I suspect he would leave her to fend for herself. Bring her

home.

No sooner had Craig finished speaking that Christopher heard Jillian

screaming in fright. A nurse came running out of her room towards him.


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Ms. Elliott is awake. You werent there and she became very agitated.

Please come quickly, the nurse said anxiously.

Christopher became frightened. I gotta go. Thanks for watching the

girls, and tell them I love them. I will be home tomorrow with Jillian.

The man hung up the phone quickly, and rushed back to Jillians room.

As soon as the woman saw him enter the room, she reached for him, the panic

easing from her eyes. One thought entered his mind, She needs me.

Going Home

The sun was just rising in the sky when Dr. Jameson stepped into

Jillians room. In the recliner beside the bed, Christopher was sleeping, his head

resting gently on the womans shoulder. If the doctor didnt know any better,

he would think that the man was Jillians husband, as he noticed the womans

tight grip on Christophers hand even as she slept.

The doctor was very concerned for the young woman. Physically she

was stable and ready to release, but her emotional state was very fragile. He

remained deeply troubled that Jillian had not spoken in the time she had been in

the hospital. Most of all, he was worried about the fact that Mr. Elliott had not

yet arrived to take care of his wife. The doctor was unsure if he should release

Jillian without someone to care for her full-time until she regained her senses.


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Dr. Jameson moved softly across the room so as to not disturb the

sleeping woman. He gently woke Christopher to speak to him about Jillians

pending release.

Mr. Hendricks? I wanted to thank you for being here for Ms. Elliott.

It is obvious that your presence was very beneficial to her recovery. Nurse

Simon told me of the episode late last night, and how Ms. Elliott calmed down

immediately as soon as you arrived in the room. It is obvious that she trusts

you very much, Dr. Jameson said calmly.

Rubbing his eyes gently, Christopher looked at the doctor, concern

evident in his eyes. How is Jillie? Is she going to be all right? the man asked

fearfully.

Ms. Elliott is stable, and she is ready to go home, however there are a

few things that are troubling me, Dr. Jameson answered. My biggest concern

is that she still hasnt spoken. She is prone to panic attacks, and extreme

confusion. My other concern is that Mr. Elliott isnt here to drive her home. I

am unsure at this time what course of action to take.

Remembering the conversation with Craig last night, Christopher

glanced at Jillian. With much thought, he said, May I take her home? Not to

her house, but to my apartment. So far I am the only person she has reached

out to, and I dont think it would be in her best interests to take her to her


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husband. He didnt even come to sit with her, and the bottom line is she needs

someone to care for her.

This is highly against hospital protocol, Mr. Hendricks, Dr. Jameson

responded, concerned. This situation is very sensitive however, and I am

strongly considering your request. You have been with her every step of the

way, and it is obvious you would provide a high level of care for her. My

biggest concern with allowing this is whether you could stay with her full-time.

She cant be left unattended until she has regained her ability to speak. Is this

something you would feel comfortable with?

Without a moments hesitation, Christopher responded, Sir, I will take

whatever time off I need to in order to make sure she is taken care of. I

couldnt leave her alone now if I wanted to. She would become too upset.

Silence settled over the room, as the doctor read over Jillians chart.

Closing it slowly, he looked at Christopher and said, Im going to allow it. I

want you to call her family physician daily to update them as to her progress,

and set up an appointment to have them assess her as soon as possible.

Thank you, Dr. Jameson. You dont know how much this means to

me, err her. I will make sure she is cared for in the best way possible,

Christopher said, sighing from deep relief.


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The doctor placed the chart on Jillians bed and looked at Christopher.

I will send the nurse in to bring the paperwork. Good luck, and keep us

informed. You are a good man.

Dr. Jameson held out his hand for Christopher to shake, and then

turned to walk out of the room. As he got to the door, Christopher spoke,

relieved. Thank you again, for everything.

The door closed, and Christopher was alone with Jillian and his

thoughts.

* * * *

An hour later, a duty nurse entered Jillians room, carrying her

discharge paperwork. Did Dr. Jameson give you Ms. Elliotts post-care

instructions? she asked Christopher.

The man nodded his head, casting a glance at Jillian. She was sitting in

the recliner, staring blankly at the wall in front of her. The doctor explained

what he needed me to do for Jillie. Is she ready to go?

Nurse Edwards looked at the paperwork, and answered, Everything is

ready for you. I have a wheelchair outside the door if you want to pull your car

up front to meet us.

A frown crossed Christophers face. Do you think someone else can

get my car? Jillian hasnt allowed me out of her sight since we arrived here. I

dont want to leave her.


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The nurse nodded her head. I will page an orderly to take care of that

for you. Lets get her downstairs.

Quickly, Nurse Edwards turned to retrieve the wheelchair from outside

the door, while Christopher gathered Jillians shoes and her purse. He looked

up to see the nurse pushing the wheelchair towards the recliner.

Slowly, Christopher extended his hand towards Jillian. She took his

hand and the man helped her slowly to her feet. He then assisted the young

woman into the wheelchair.

Remembering the last time he had been in a hospital, Christopher

breathed a sigh of relief. This wasnt like the last time. Jillian was coming

home.

* * * *

As Christopher started the engine to his car, he glanced nervously at

Jillian. The man had never seen her look so lifeless and defeated. He had fallen

in love with her vibrancy and exuberance, but in a single moment, all that had

changed. Jillians sparkling eyes were dead and lifeless, and her laughter was

silenced.

Jillian sat motionless beside him, staring straight ahead. Christopher

longed desperately to see a glimpse of the smile that could melt ice instantly.

He hoped to hear her laughter and her beautiful voice. Christopher knew that

only by restoring her confidence would she open up to him again.


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Jillian, he said, looking over at Jillian. I am taking you to my

apartment. The Major approved some time off for me so that I can take care of

you. We will get through this together.

Christopher was greeted only by silence as she looked blankly out the

windshield. The man felt helpless to pull Jillian out of her depression, but his

love for her beat strong in his heart. He knew that if she was going to recover,

it would be with him by her side.

The car pulled slowly under the carport, and Christopher turned off the

ignition. Glancing up, the man saw Craig waiting on the stairs above. As he

opened the door to the car, Jillian began sobbing again.

Hang on Jillie. Ill be right around to get you, Christopher said,

holding her hand.

The man rushed around the black car and opened the door. As he

helped Jillian out of the car, she grabbed for him tightly. Silently Christopher

led the woman to the wooden stairs leading to the apartment.

As the couple reached the landing, they were greeted by Craig. The

man was taken aback by Jillians subtle beauty. Her auburn hair perfectly

accented her heart-shaped ivory face and deep brown eyes, and upon seeing the

woman, he knew instantly what drew his brother to her.

Did you get my room ready for Jillie? Christopher asked, shaking

Craig from his thoughts.


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Nodding gently, Craig spoke quietly, for fear of frightening Jillian.

Yes. I changed the sheets and put your laundry in the washer. I also found

some of Elizabeths things in a trunk. They are on the chair by the bed.

Are the girls here? Christopher inquired curiously.

Dad, I am here, Alexis chimed from the doorway. Is your friend

okay?

Glancing at Jillian nervously, Christopher answered his daughter, She

will be fine honey. She just needs to rest. Shell stay in my room for a couple

of days.

Uncle Craig said you wanted us to stay with him, but Katie and I want

to stay to help, Alexis pleaded seriously. You need to sleep sometime, right

Dad?

A sense of pride overwhelmed Christopher as he listened to his

daughters arguments. Lizzie would be proud , he thought to himself.

Lets get Jillian settled and we will talk more about it, okay?

Christopher smiled.

The girl bounced back into the apartment, and Christopher held Jillian

as she timidly walked through the door into the unfamiliar room. They walked

down the short hallway to the family room where Kaitlyn sat watching a movie.

8/4/2019 Jillian's Esca

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Jillian's Escape