Ethics of a Thief Read Online Free PDF Page A

vessel?”
    “That’s a good question.”
    “It’s on autopilot,” Abigail said. “Before leaving the helm, I shut it down.”
    When Matt moved toward Robert, Lisa and Danny started talking to each other -- the first time since the ordeal began. The children glanced at the men and whispered.
    Abigail felt shaky inside, not knowing what to expect, but wanting to appear secure. To calm herself, she decided to use a technique from grief therapy. Each time she felt overwhelmed, she made herself aware of her surroundings. In the past, the technique helped, she hoped it would again.
    While the men conversed, she gave the main salon a careful inspection. The cabin was large enough to entertain twenty people, and the large portholes allowed the sun to light the area. The furniture varied; a few pieces of modern, lots of contemporary and a sprinkle of antiques. That was one thing about the Kilgores -- they did their own thing when it came to decorating. She had to admit everything did come together with an atmosphere of comfort and intrigue. There was a thirty-foot wrap-around couch that appeared comfortable, and a magnificent cherry-wood coffee table. Near the galley was a glorious dining table.
    After taking a few deep breaths, she held it for a count of ten and slowly let it out. Once relaxed, she quickly shifted her thoughts to finding a way to escape without causing havoc with her abductors. One thing was for sure -- she had to find a way to be alone. After stepping near Matt, she stood with her weight on one foot and the other hand on her hip. “I’m going to get drinks for the children.”
    Matt touched his chin and observed her before he grinned and nodded his approval.
    She grabbed the children’s hands and advanced toward the galley. Robert yelled, “Stop! The kids stay here. If there is even a hint you’re up to something, you’ll regret it, lady. Understand?”
    She spun around and scowled at the man. “Yes. I understand.”
    She studied the children’s faces and gave a reassuring smile. As she stepped toward the galley, she overheard Matt say, “The kids and woman stay with me. I’ll be responsible. I found them.” Abigail could almost hear a sigh of relief from Robert and Brent.
    Abigail entered the galley, passed the stainless-steel island and refrigerator, and stopped at the sink. For the first time, she noticed a vessel from the porthole. Suddenly, it hit her -- signal for help. She hoped her days in the Girl Scouts would pay off. She glanced over her shoulder to reassure the vessel was still in sight; it was, of course. Frantically, she opened the cabinets to search for a flashlight. She had no luck. It must be in the wheelhouse. She quickly scanned around for matches and candles, but found none.
    After grabbing a shiny pot, she decided she could angle it so the sun would help signal for help, but before she tried, she saw Matt from the corner of her eye. He was silent and stood with his arms folded leaning against the hatch with his hazel eyes looking down.
    Suddenly, she felt a tinge of guilt mixed with fear, as if caught doing something wrong and hoped the pot in her hand didn’t give away her intent. Swiftly, she placed it down and busied herself by getting drinks. Well, isn’t this great! I just missed my first opportunity to get help.

Chapter Four
    Abigail then looked around for a tray on which to place the drinks. She heard a robust voice. Matt was by the hatch. Next to him was a large, potbellied man with a high forehead; his pants and shirt were too tight. His forceful voice matched his large frame. The man scrutinized her every move. His hateful eyes caused her to shiver.
    “What’s going on here?” the man bellowed. “Is this some kind of sick joke? Where did the woman and kids come from? The last thing we need is another distraction.”
    “Calm down, Jack. I didn’t plan this. I found them hiding in a cabin.”
    “Hiding? Why where they hiding?”
    “They must have heard our