Page 60 of Harley

“What information do we have?” Oakley asked, as the cabin crew brought us coffees.

“Aspen and Archer were committed three years ago under false names. They’re down as Angela and Aidan Cannon. Aspen was admitted for bipolar and severe depression. Archer for behavioural difficulties. Archer’s autism diagnosis was ignored. Edmond is guardian for them both. Oakley, Edmond’s locked them up in a private hospital, which is little better than an insane asylum.”

“Shit,” Oakley breathed as her blood drained from her face.

“Babe, I’m going to be completely honest. I’d never lie to you. This place has terrible reviews. Abuse seems to run rampant there, and it’s been under government administration twice. It was shut down and then re-opened under a new name, and the cycle continued. I’ve no idea what condition we’ll find them in.Steven is here in case of legal trouble, and Matthias will be providing security,” I said.

“Oakley, I have the file and required documents. From the information Leila has provided, this place is well used to taking underhanded bribes. The fact Aspen and Archer are registered under false names is worrying. Matthias is contacting the local police and reporting what has happened. We’re going to ask them for backup,” Steven said with a yawn.

“We will get Aspen and Archer. Somehow, we’ll make them safe again,” I swore, and Oakley nodded.

Oakley

I was on tenterhooks as we climbed into the SUVs that had been sent to meet us. It was closing on nine a.m. when we neared the grim hospital just outside of Bellingham. The towering edifice looked terrifying. The windows were barred, and the building was a grey monstrosity. That structure appeared Victorian and dated. Overgrown grounds suggested not many enjoyed the outside.

As we approached, the dreadful feeling in my gut intensified. Aspen and Archer had been locked up here, desperate, for three years? If they weren’t insane, they would be now.

We spilt from the SUVs, with Steven walking alongside me and Harley. A black and white police car sat outside, and Steven walked over and showed them a file. He pointed to the building several times, and the two uniforms nodded.

“Come on. The cops are aware of everything, and I’ve shown them all the documentation, including Aspen’s and Archer’s medical reports, before they disappeared. There was no sign of any mental distress or illness, and Archer had received a glowing report,” Steven said.

Angrily, I stormed towards the building, intent on rescuing my cousins. Harley marched at my side, determined I didn’t confront this alone. The receptionist looked up as we entered, and alarm crossed her face at seeing the police.

“Can I help you?”

“Angela and Aidan Cannon are being held here. They are kept against their will, and you’ll release them into my custody now,” I said.

“Um, I don’t know anything about that,” she replied. “I’ll call for the manager.”

“Do that,” I ordered.

Agitated, I paced back and forth for a few minutes until the manager entered. I took an instant dislike to him.

Mr Davies, as his name badge stated, appeared a simpering and dishonest person. His gaze raked us and landed on me. There was recognition in his eyes. “Can I help?”

Angrily, I repeated my request, and Mr Davies shook his head. “That won’t be happening. Angela suffers from bipolar with extreme violent mood swings. We cannot, in conscience, release Angela back into the community.”

“So, I guess it would come as a surprise to know that Angela and Aidan Cannon are not who you claim. They are actually Aspen and Archer Ferguson. They’ve been imprisoned here under a false identity. Plus, I have the actual guardianship of them both,” I stated. The insidious man shook his head.

“Mr and Mrs Ferguson have that, and not you. I’m well aware you’re their missing daughter, and you are also unbalanced. Mr Feguson has given permission to take you into care should you arrive here,” Mr Davies replied and rubbed his hands together.

“So, you’re not surprised that Angela and Aiden aren’t their real names?” Harley demanded astutely.

“Well, I have no knowledge of that!” Mr Davies backtracked as he saw the police officers.

“That’s enough,” Steven said and handed Mr Davies the papers. The fool declared them fake, and finally, the police took Mr Davies into custody.

Once he was arrested, the receptionist informed us what room Aspen and Archer were in. A sullen nurse led us through locked doors with security tightly around us. Further law enforcement had been called alongside adult services, and the place would soon be swarming.

We were led to a day area where I spotted Aspen sat listlessly in a chair. By her feet was Archer.

“Oh my God,” I exclaimed and rushed forward.

Aspen continued to stare out of the window.

Horrified, I dropped down on my knees and brushed Aspen’s hair from her face.

“Aspen, it’s me, Oakley!” I cried.

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