A Fine Kettle of Fish

Chapter Twenty-seven

Ben massaged his forehead. “I can’t believe this is happening. What should I do, Uncle Elliot?”

“Give them the money.” Elliot perched on a wingback chair in Aunt Ida’s living room and stared at Ben.

Elliot obviously didn’t know what to do either.

“Like I have thirty grand to throw around.” Ben paced back and forth, fraying the worn carpet further. What bothered him more than the money was Janelle’s safety. He couldn’t believe the feelings that coursed through him as he pictured her in that abandoned gas station with Cliff and Monty. As he paced, he prayed for God’s protection for her, as well as for wisdom for himself.  “I still think we should call the sheriff. He could—”

Elliot jumped up. “Forget the authorities! I can handle these guys.”

Aunt Ida walked in from the kitchen, a dishtowel in her hands. “Ben, what’s wrong? Has something bad happened?”

Ben rolled his eyes. This was the fourth time she had popped out of the kitchen like a cuckoo from a clock, asking the same question. “Never mind, Aunt Ida. Go back and finish the dishes.”

“Well, you boys have certainly gotten yourselves into a fine kettle of fish! Look at you! All upset.”

Elliot placed his hands on her shoulders and turned her toward the kitchen. “Now, Ida. Don’t worry your pretty little head about this. Ben and I can handle it.” He waited until Ida was gone before he turned back to Ben. “At least, let them think you’re giving them thirty thousand. I have a board game that has some realistic play money. Maybe you can pass it off long enough to grab Janelle and run.” He cracked a grin. “Cliff and Monty are not too smart.”

“But what if they realize it’s fake?” The knot in Ben’s stomach tightened. “Cliff held a revolver on me. He could be holding Janelle at gunpoint too.” Don’t let anything happen to her, Lord!

“Yeah, but anybody can outwit them. And I mean anybody.” Elliot walked to the door. “Let’s find that money and a briefcase and see what we can do.”

Ben shrugged. “Okay.” Elliot’s plan didn’t seem that great. But maybe, with God’s help, it would work.

* * *

Tomorrow we’ll see how Janelle is doing.

         Until then, God bless!