MISTAKEN IDENTITY
A SHORT STORY BY RICHARD SWAIN
PART ONE
THE ANNIVERSARY
When Robert and Gloria Andrews wanted others to join a special celebration, they usually invited Robert’s brother, Brett, and his wife, Pamela. Dinner at The Hen’s Cage was always a treat as the brined chicken was the best in the city. The sommelier presented the French champagne to Robert, and he nodded to pour all around. As glasses were raised, he thanked Gloria for twenty-five years of married happiness, and she responded with a kiss and expressed love.
Robert mugged a Charlie Chaplin move as he pulled a large white envelope from his coat pocket and handed it to Gloria saying to all “She has no clue.” Gloria opened the sealed envelope and slowly read the contents, looking to her husband with excitement, and then back to the letter in a bewildered stare for confirmation. “He’s taking me to Greece” she exclaimed with great surprise. All joined in with animated and boisterous conversation for such a special occasion, especially due to the circumstances.
Brett and Pamela were aware Robert had been laid off from his accounting position at the healthcare company, and after four months, he was still in the job hunt. “How are you pulling this off big brother?” said Brett with a smile. “Ever heard of a 401k loan?” laughed Robert. Just at that moment, a young lady approached their table, and sheepishly said in a quiet voice, “I’m so sorry for disturbing you, but are you Gloria Andrews?” The foursome all laughed, and Gloria answered, “Yes, I’m Gloria Andrews, but sadly not the actress, although I could use the money.” It’s one thing to look like someone famous, but to have the same name should be more than a coincidence. Both had similar facial features, blond hair, and a slim figure. A white gardenia was the one difference as the actress always wore one in public, and Robert’s wife disliked the fragrance. The in-laws always thought this mistaken identity was such a treat, and truth be told, so did Robert and Gloria. “Ready for a good laugh?” said Robert, “The more famous Gloria Andrews will be in Athens on a film shoot during our stay.” A toast was offered for all the Gloria Andrews of the world. Robert asked the waiter to take their picture and said it was to celebrate their special Greek adventure.
The Athens Hilton was well-located in the heart of the city, with a beautiful park across the street, housing the Byzantine Museum. As they walked up to the front desk, several of the staff moved to greet them. “We are so excited you will be staying with us Ms. Andrews,” a young man said in his best English. Both Gloria and Robert were too tired from the long flight to be amused, and simply explained the mistaken identity.
At ten o’clock the next morning, the couple approached the concierge. Robert explained their plan to visit the Acropolis, but since he was feeling ill, his wife would go alone. He expressed his concern for her safety, and did they have any recommendations? The gentleman offered the hotel car, and said that the driver had a special permit to drive to the top of the rocky outcrop, and that he would wait for the ride back. Robert offered a generous tip for the special service, but was waived off as this was a special anniversary.
At three in the afternoon, Robert called the concierge expressing concern for his wife. A different staff person was aware of the hotel car, and spoke in a somewhat unpleasant tone about the car being tied up for the day. He said the driver had called the hotel on several occasions, and that he had been walking the site looking for Ms. Andrews. By six in the evening, hotel security had contacted the police, and Robert was being interviewed.
PART TWO
MISSING
Robert was visibly shaken and distraught as the head of hotel security and a police detective asked numerous questions. He explained the circumstance of his wife being on her own, and became testy, saying the concierge staff was well aware of his illness, and promised she would be safe. Yes, she had a smart phone with her, but they had no international SIM card, and she would only use the camera. They asked for a recent picture, and Robert provided one from his phone. As the detective realized the name and appearance similarity to the American movie star in town, a worried and distressed look fell upon his face. He stepped away and made several telephone calls.
The police set up a command post at the top of the Acropolis and brought in two K-9 teams and a squad of officers for a thorough search. Robert provided articles of clothing for the dogs to smell, and was allowed to join the detective. Within twenty minutes there was a commotion by the Theatre of Dionysus. Robert was led to the area, and broke down in a sob as one of Gloria’s red sneakers was found near a foot path. The dogs moved to a nearby parking lot and circled an area of asphalt barking.
The Athens police department had a special kidnap team, and senior detective Kronos was assigned to lead the investigation. Robert pressed for an immediate public announcement, but he was strongly encouraged to wait twenty-four hours in the hope that a ransom request would be made. The next morning, the police received a call from the Kathimerini newspaper.
The notice to be published in the English-language edition was only thirteen words, “America, we have your actress Gloria Andrews, the ransom is one million dollars.” The notice was in an envelope placed on the editor’s desk. The newspaper said that they reviewed camera footage and interviewed night staff, but had no information on how it came to their office.
Globe Studios had spent the past two months assembling the Greek location team in Athens for the filming of Silence Matters, starring the American actress Gloria Andrews. Ms Andrews had arrived by private jet two days earlier and was booked into the Queens Suite of the Four Seasons Hotel. The director and principal producer, Alan Phelps, was staying in the Presidential Suite on the same top floor. Detective Kronos and Robert were ushered into a private conference room at the hotel and were met by the actress, her agent, and Mr. Phelps. Each of the five participants had their own agenda and strong opinion as to the next step. Kronos had the final say, and after two hours an agreement was reached.
The following morning, the newspaper’s front page had a two- inch headline that read “KIDNAPPING AND MISTAKEN IDENTITY.” The story led with the thirteen-word request, and quickly followed with a brief explanation of the mistaken identity and the abduction scene. There was a picture of the actress holding a late edition newspaper showing the current date. A second picture showed Robert’s wife. The article ended with a plea for the kidnappers to contact the police for an immediate resolution.
Later that evening, Kronos was furious when told to quickly turn on the TV. The three major television studios had their camera teams in front of the Four Seasons, and the actress, her director, and the bereaved husband were being interviewed. The detective had explicitly forbade these three from drawing any public attention at this early stage of negotiations. Globe Studios knew the power of such free publicity for their film, the agent understood the benefit to his client, and Robert needed all the help possible for his wife’s safe return. The famous movie star made a passionate plea for the release of her “identical twin” and announced that both she and Globe would pay a combined $200,000 toward the requested ransom. The scream from Kronos at this moment could be heard blocks away, as the kidnapping investigation was being snatched from his control.
In todays world of social media, word of the Athens kidnapping had reached anyone who opened a smart phone or computer over the next twenty-four hours. The telephone call was routed to the detective and was being taped. A voice sounding local to southern Greece would not negotiate any change to the ransom request, and made reference to the avalanche of publicity that should be worrisome to the police, the city, and to the country. Two new demands were made, there would be a forty-eight hour deadline, and the husband was to be the courier of the funds. The location for exchanging money for hostage would be telephoned at the last moment.
It should not surprise the reader that the camera teams never left the Four Seasons, and that the three principals could not resist facing the lens of notoriety. While other self-serving organizations around the world tried to open their wallets and gain a foothold in front of the camera, the director Phelps stonewalled any attempt to intercede. Vendors filled every space available near the hotel, selling food, hastily printed clothing, caps, and souvenirs that would stretch the imagination of any reasonable person. Word of a special announcement flashed around the globe, as the actress, director, and husband stood before the hushed crowd. An innocent life was at risk, and this was no time to negotiate. The actress pledged $500,000 for the release of her namesake, and Mr. Phelps speaking on behalf of all the employees and families of Globe Studios would pledge $500,000. George Andrews wept and struggled to remain standing. He declined to speak as he was too emotionally overcome.
Detective Kronos winced when he heard of the exchange location. The Plaka is like a village within the city of Athens. This is the old town in the shadow of the Acropolis, densely packed with restored nineteenth century neoclassical homes, shops, and restaurants. Collecting the unmarked bills, and isolating George at a secured location, he waited for the final telephone call. After receiving the call, a policewoman walked down the Plaka street holding George’s arm appearing as tourists searching for their hotel. He pulled their large suitcase. As they approached a narrow alleyway on the right, her telephone rang. She listened, hung up, and continued walking down the street. George turned and walk down the alley.
Ten minutes later, a swarm of police, sirens blazing, smothered a five block radius of the Plaka. After four hours of combing the area, and interviewing possible witnesses, the search was called off. At the Four Seasons, the camera crews waited for an interview that failed to materialize. Kronos made a brief statement in front of the police station but took no questions, and quickly retreated inside.
A policeman was walking past warehouses in Piraeus, the port hub of Athens, two days after the disappearance of George Andrews. A car pulled up, and a fisherman said that a woman was lying on the ground a block away, tied up and blindfolded. He said his friend was guarding her, and that they believed she may be the kidnap victim reported in the news.
PART THREE
CHANGING PLACES
Gloria Andrews was filthy, bruised, had the appearance of rope burns on her hands, and seemed incoherent as she was rushed to the hospital for the first of many examinations. She was overwrought with the news of George’s disappearance. Over the next two days she was interviewed by the police, the hospital psychologist, and a government specialist trained in repressed memory retrieval. Gradually, Gloria was able to give a sketchy account of her abduction, the incarceration, and one key person she thought was named Giorgos. As she neared release from the hospital, a phone call was made to Detective Kronos, and the voice was familiar. The demand was simple, another one million dollars for the release of George Andrews. The caller said that they had proven themselves reliable, and that this time, the kidnapped individual would be better treated. If the detective could not make this happen, they would go public with the demand. Once again, any control that Kronos possessed was quickly taken away from him.
The publicity agent for Globe Pictures announced to the news organizations that a media only interview would be held in the Four Seasons ballroom, and that both of the Gloria Andrews would speak. Looking at the audience, director Phelps quickly assessed that this story had reached the end of its newsworthy rope and that he needed to tread lightly. He thanked the public for their interest in the safety of Gloria Andrews and her return. He stumbled and mumbled about a possible future Globe “true story” picture about the kidnapping, and summoned the actress to come forward. After thanking her fans, and making several brief comments about the current film Silence Matters, she introduced the Gloria Andrews that the public really wanted to meet.
As Gloria stood, she was shaken that nothing was said about her missing husband and the new ransom demand. She collected her senses, and spoke graciously to the audience, thanking the studio and the actress for their financial generosity in securing her safe return. She broke the news of her husband George now facing the same haunting kidnapping and the same one million dollar demand. Gloria referenced his losing his job, their twenty-fifth anniversary, and their debts. Tears ran down her face and her voice trembled as she spoke of a GoFundMe site for those who could possibly help with the ransom. She thanked anyone who might assist with this urgent need, and then sat down.
For the next few weeks little progress was made in any direction. The police only ran into dead ends, no contact was made by the kidnappers, and only $60,000 had come into the fundraising site. The studio had finished their location filming and had left Athens. The news media had moved on to other stories, and Gloria was facing mounting hotel bills. The detective called one morning and said that he would pick her up in ten minutes. Arriving at a remote waterfront area beyond the shipping terminals of Piraeus, the detective led Gloria to a trashy area of discarded furniture, and small boats. There on ground was a sport coat and a shoe. Gloria confirmed what the detective suspected, that these items belonged to George Andrews.
Gloria remained in Athens for a a final week that included several more fruitless police interviews, and paperwork that led to a certificate of presumed death. She was told that this instrument would be helpful in supporting any death claims that might be initiated back in the United States. The local public had lost all interest in the double kidnapping, and the GoFundMe account dried up at a little over $63,000. Before going home, there was one final gesture that Gloria appreciated, as the Mayor of Athens presented her with a first class plane ticket, and assisted in the refund of their two coach fares.
PART FOUR
A NEW LIFE
George Andrews was always proud of his one million dollar life insurance policy, and was careful that annual premiums were paid well before each yearly deadline. As Gloria started filing the various forms for any benefits that might accrue to her, this life insurance policy would prove to be the most significant. Masters Life Insurance Company recently celebrated their 150th anniversary, and guarding against fraud, was one of the hallmarks of their long-term success. Robert’s brother Brett was a godsend in navigating all the roadblocks that Masters Life placed before Gloria. Brett even suggested that the insurance company might want to interview the waiter at The Hen’s Cage, who served the anniversary dinner and took their picture. After four months of back and forth, Gloria received the insurance settlement.
Brett and Pamela were a little surprised when Gloria said that she needed to return to Athens for closure. They insisted that they should join her for this final farewell to George. The plan was a short four day stay at the Athens Hilton, and the opportunity to visit some of the sights the anniversary couple had planned. While Gloria was reluctant to have the company, she eventually relented and a date was set.
The first full day in Athens was spent at the Acropolis, and included Gloria, Brett, and Pamela walking in the area of the abduction. Brett soon realized the importance of facing one’s darkest moments, and quietly admonished himself for questioning his sister-in-law, and her motives. They enjoyed an early dinner together and retired to their rooms as the busy day and jet lag prepared them for a good night’s sleep.
The alarm sounded at 4:30 a.m. Gloria quickly showered and dressed. Putting several planned items in a large purse bag, she reached into the back of her suitcase and withdrew a package. Standing in front of the mirror, she adjusted the black wig over her short blond hair, and put on dark glasses. Quietly leaving the room, she exited the hotel. She walked several blocks, hailed a taxi, and pondered her future as they drove to the ferry terminal. The early morning ferry trip from Piraeus to Kavos on the southern tip of Corfu is six hours. If all went as planned, the reunion at the Morteas Hotel would be at 2 p.m. It was a crisp beautiful morning, and the sea was smooth as glass. Gloria spent the majority of the trip sitting outside and enjoying the fresh salt air. Kavos is a small town, and the Morteas Hotel was a short walk up the main street from the ferry landing.
As she entered the lobby, Gloria removed her dark glasses, and glanced around seeking a familiar face. Several people were sitting at small tables, enjoying a beverage and conversation. She continued to look around as she neared the front desk and caught the eye of the attendant. “I’m meeting a friend for a glass of wine,” she said. “Is your name Gloria?” he replied. She nodded her head, and he handed her an envelope.
PART FIVE
THE LETTER
Dear Gloria, please find a quiet corner and sit as you read this letter. For twenty-five years, honesty has been a pillar of our relationship, and this moment requires all the truthfulness, sincerity, and frankness I can muster. First, thank you for wiring the insurance proceeds. They have been received and further transferred. Here is the simple truth, we have only two million dollars and not the three million as planned. Giorgio’s and his people took their $500,000 as agreed. I have come to the difficult conclusion that the two of us cannot live on $1,500,000. I know you sacrificed a great deal throughout this ordeal, especially the physical abuse of your capture to satisfy the authorities. But here is where truth can hurt, you dropped the ball on raising the one million for my release. I always thought you were a persuasive person, and frankly, I was disappointed that your GoFundMe idea was so ineffective, and that you let the Hollywood crowd slip through your fingers without putting up a fight. You now need to move on with your life, as I also need to move on with my life. Once you reason through this surprise and hurt, you will realize you have no other option. I will not be found, and talking to authorities will have you jailed for your role in our fraudulent actions. Hopefully you have applied for Social Security disability based on my death, and you will receive my small company pension. Perhaps you can write a book or pursue the Gloria Andrews mistaken identity movie that Globe briefly mentioned. I could say more, but at this moment, you are probably too angry to hear my words. I wish you happiness in your new life, George.
Gloria could not contain herself and let out a shriek that Kronos could have heard back in Athens. Quickly walking down the street to the ferry, she heard a vehicle’s screeching brakes behind her, and a scream. Gloria had a fleeting thought that she was not the only one having a bad day. Using a telephone at the ferry building, she reached the Hilton and rang Brett and Pamela’s room. “Where have you been?” said Brett anxiously, “I needed a day on my own,” said Gloria, “See you in the morning for breakfast.” No one seemed to notice the dark-haired woman walking into the ladies room, but several took a second glance at a blond woman that walked out, reminding them of someone they might have seen on television or perhaps the movies.
Boarding the ferry, she walked to the bow and looked up toward the picturesque town that could have been the start of a new life. From a distance, she could see the recently heard commotion on the Main Street, as a blanket was being placed over a deceased pedestrian. Even if she had witnessed the accident, she probably would not have recognized George with his full beard, large sun hat, and farmers clothing. His hand was still clutching the hundred bill he was taking to the hotel clerk for services rendered. A brisk afternoon wind gave her a chill, and she turned away and walked inside.
RICHARD SWAIN
A SHORT STORY BY RICHARD SWAIN
PART ONE
THE ANNIVERSARY
When Robert and Gloria Andrews wanted others to join a special celebration, they usually invited Robert’s brother, Brett, and his wife, Pamela. Dinner at The Hen’s Cage was always a treat as the brined chicken was the best in the city. The sommelier presented the French champagne to Robert, and he nodded to pour all around. As glasses were raised, he thanked Gloria for twenty-five years of married happiness, and she responded with a kiss and expressed love.
Robert mugged a Charlie Chaplin move as he pulled a large white envelope from his coat pocket and handed it to Gloria saying to all “She has no clue.” Gloria opened the sealed envelope and slowly read the contents, looking to her husband with excitement, and then back to the letter in a bewildered stare for confirmation. “He’s taking me to Greece” she exclaimed with great surprise. All joined in with animated and boisterous conversation for such a special occasion, especially due to the circumstances.
Brett and Pamela were aware Robert had been laid off from his accounting position at the healthcare company, and after four months, he was still in the job hunt. “How are you pulling this off big brother?” said Brett with a smile. “Ever heard of a 401k loan?” laughed Robert. Just at that moment, a young lady approached their table, and sheepishly said in a quiet voice, “I’m so sorry for disturbing you, but are you Gloria Andrews?” The foursome all laughed, and Gloria answered, “Yes, I’m Gloria Andrews, but sadly not the actress, although I could use the money.” It’s one thing to look like someone famous, but to have the same name should be more than a coincidence. Both had similar facial features, blond hair, and a slim figure. A white gardenia was the one difference as the actress always wore one in public, and Robert’s wife disliked the fragrance. The in-laws always thought this mistaken identity was such a treat, and truth be told, so did Robert and Gloria. “Ready for a good laugh?” said Robert, “The more famous Gloria Andrews will be in Athens on a film shoot during our stay.” A toast was offered for all the Gloria Andrews of the world. Robert asked the waiter to take their picture and said it was to celebrate their special Greek adventure.
The Athens Hilton was well-located in the heart of the city, with a beautiful park across the street, housing the Byzantine Museum. As they walked up to the front desk, several of the staff moved to greet them. “We are so excited you will be staying with us Ms. Andrews,” a young man said in his best English. Both Gloria and Robert were too tired from the long flight to be amused, and simply explained the mistaken identity.
At ten o’clock the next morning, the couple approached the concierge. Robert explained their plan to visit the Acropolis, but since he was feeling ill, his wife would go alone. He expressed his concern for her safety, and did they have any recommendations? The gentleman offered the hotel car, and said that the driver had a special permit to drive to the top of the rocky outcrop, and that he would wait for the ride back. Robert offered a generous tip for the special service, but was waived off as this was a special anniversary.
At three in the afternoon, Robert called the concierge expressing concern for his wife. A different staff person was aware of the hotel car, and spoke in a somewhat unpleasant tone about the car being tied up for the day. He said the driver had called the hotel on several occasions, and that he had been walking the site looking for Ms. Andrews. By six in the evening, hotel security had contacted the police, and Robert was being interviewed.
PART TWO
MISSING
Robert was visibly shaken and distraught as the head of hotel security and a police detective asked numerous questions. He explained the circumstance of his wife being on her own, and became testy, saying the concierge staff was well aware of his illness, and promised she would be safe. Yes, she had a smart phone with her, but they had no international SIM card, and she would only use the camera. They asked for a recent picture, and Robert provided one from his phone. As the detective realized the name and appearance similarity to the American movie star in town, a worried and distressed look fell upon his face. He stepped away and made several telephone calls.
The police set up a command post at the top of the Acropolis and brought in two K-9 teams and a squad of officers for a thorough search. Robert provided articles of clothing for the dogs to smell, and was allowed to join the detective. Within twenty minutes there was a commotion by the Theatre of Dionysus. Robert was led to the area, and broke down in a sob as one of Gloria’s red sneakers was found near a foot path. The dogs moved to a nearby parking lot and circled an area of asphalt barking.
The Athens police department had a special kidnap team, and senior detective Kronos was assigned to lead the investigation. Robert pressed for an immediate public announcement, but he was strongly encouraged to wait twenty-four hours in the hope that a ransom request would be made. The next morning, the police received a call from the Kathimerini newspaper.
The notice to be published in the English-language edition was only thirteen words, “America, we have your actress Gloria Andrews, the ransom is one million dollars.” The notice was in an envelope placed on the editor’s desk. The newspaper said that they reviewed camera footage and interviewed night staff, but had no information on how it came to their office.
Globe Studios had spent the past two months assembling the Greek location team in Athens for the filming of Silence Matters, starring the American actress Gloria Andrews. Ms Andrews had arrived by private jet two days earlier and was booked into the Queens Suite of the Four Seasons Hotel. The director and principal producer, Alan Phelps, was staying in the Presidential Suite on the same top floor. Detective Kronos and Robert were ushered into a private conference room at the hotel and were met by the actress, her agent, and Mr. Phelps. Each of the five participants had their own agenda and strong opinion as to the next step. Kronos had the final say, and after two hours an agreement was reached.
The following morning, the newspaper’s front page had a two- inch headline that read “KIDNAPPING AND MISTAKEN IDENTITY.” The story led with the thirteen-word request, and quickly followed with a brief explanation of the mistaken identity and the abduction scene. There was a picture of the actress holding a late edition newspaper showing the current date. A second picture showed Robert’s wife. The article ended with a plea for the kidnappers to contact the police for an immediate resolution.
Later that evening, Kronos was furious when told to quickly turn on the TV. The three major television studios had their camera teams in front of the Four Seasons, and the actress, her director, and the bereaved husband were being interviewed. The detective had explicitly forbade these three from drawing any public attention at this early stage of negotiations. Globe Studios knew the power of such free publicity for their film, the agent understood the benefit to his client, and Robert needed all the help possible for his wife’s safe return. The famous movie star made a passionate plea for the release of her “identical twin” and announced that both she and Globe would pay a combined $200,000 toward the requested ransom. The scream from Kronos at this moment could be heard blocks away, as the kidnapping investigation was being snatched from his control.
In todays world of social media, word of the Athens kidnapping had reached anyone who opened a smart phone or computer over the next twenty-four hours. The telephone call was routed to the detective and was being taped. A voice sounding local to southern Greece would not negotiate any change to the ransom request, and made reference to the avalanche of publicity that should be worrisome to the police, the city, and to the country. Two new demands were made, there would be a forty-eight hour deadline, and the husband was to be the courier of the funds. The location for exchanging money for hostage would be telephoned at the last moment.
It should not surprise the reader that the camera teams never left the Four Seasons, and that the three principals could not resist facing the lens of notoriety. While other self-serving organizations around the world tried to open their wallets and gain a foothold in front of the camera, the director Phelps stonewalled any attempt to intercede. Vendors filled every space available near the hotel, selling food, hastily printed clothing, caps, and souvenirs that would stretch the imagination of any reasonable person. Word of a special announcement flashed around the globe, as the actress, director, and husband stood before the hushed crowd. An innocent life was at risk, and this was no time to negotiate. The actress pledged $500,000 for the release of her namesake, and Mr. Phelps speaking on behalf of all the employees and families of Globe Studios would pledge $500,000. George Andrews wept and struggled to remain standing. He declined to speak as he was too emotionally overcome.
Detective Kronos winced when he heard of the exchange location. The Plaka is like a village within the city of Athens. This is the old town in the shadow of the Acropolis, densely packed with restored nineteenth century neoclassical homes, shops, and restaurants. Collecting the unmarked bills, and isolating George at a secured location, he waited for the final telephone call. After receiving the call, a policewoman walked down the Plaka street holding George’s arm appearing as tourists searching for their hotel. He pulled their large suitcase. As they approached a narrow alleyway on the right, her telephone rang. She listened, hung up, and continued walking down the street. George turned and walk down the alley.
Ten minutes later, a swarm of police, sirens blazing, smothered a five block radius of the Plaka. After four hours of combing the area, and interviewing possible witnesses, the search was called off. At the Four Seasons, the camera crews waited for an interview that failed to materialize. Kronos made a brief statement in front of the police station but took no questions, and quickly retreated inside.
A policeman was walking past warehouses in Piraeus, the port hub of Athens, two days after the disappearance of George Andrews. A car pulled up, and a fisherman said that a woman was lying on the ground a block away, tied up and blindfolded. He said his friend was guarding her, and that they believed she may be the kidnap victim reported in the news.
PART THREE
CHANGING PLACES
Gloria Andrews was filthy, bruised, had the appearance of rope burns on her hands, and seemed incoherent as she was rushed to the hospital for the first of many examinations. She was overwrought with the news of George’s disappearance. Over the next two days she was interviewed by the police, the hospital psychologist, and a government specialist trained in repressed memory retrieval. Gradually, Gloria was able to give a sketchy account of her abduction, the incarceration, and one key person she thought was named Giorgos. As she neared release from the hospital, a phone call was made to Detective Kronos, and the voice was familiar. The demand was simple, another one million dollars for the release of George Andrews. The caller said that they had proven themselves reliable, and that this time, the kidnapped individual would be better treated. If the detective could not make this happen, they would go public with the demand. Once again, any control that Kronos possessed was quickly taken away from him.
The publicity agent for Globe Pictures announced to the news organizations that a media only interview would be held in the Four Seasons ballroom, and that both of the Gloria Andrews would speak. Looking at the audience, director Phelps quickly assessed that this story had reached the end of its newsworthy rope and that he needed to tread lightly. He thanked the public for their interest in the safety of Gloria Andrews and her return. He stumbled and mumbled about a possible future Globe “true story” picture about the kidnapping, and summoned the actress to come forward. After thanking her fans, and making several brief comments about the current film Silence Matters, she introduced the Gloria Andrews that the public really wanted to meet.
As Gloria stood, she was shaken that nothing was said about her missing husband and the new ransom demand. She collected her senses, and spoke graciously to the audience, thanking the studio and the actress for their financial generosity in securing her safe return. She broke the news of her husband George now facing the same haunting kidnapping and the same one million dollar demand. Gloria referenced his losing his job, their twenty-fifth anniversary, and their debts. Tears ran down her face and her voice trembled as she spoke of a GoFundMe site for those who could possibly help with the ransom. She thanked anyone who might assist with this urgent need, and then sat down.
For the next few weeks little progress was made in any direction. The police only ran into dead ends, no contact was made by the kidnappers, and only $60,000 had come into the fundraising site. The studio had finished their location filming and had left Athens. The news media had moved on to other stories, and Gloria was facing mounting hotel bills. The detective called one morning and said that he would pick her up in ten minutes. Arriving at a remote waterfront area beyond the shipping terminals of Piraeus, the detective led Gloria to a trashy area of discarded furniture, and small boats. There on ground was a sport coat and a shoe. Gloria confirmed what the detective suspected, that these items belonged to George Andrews.
Gloria remained in Athens for a a final week that included several more fruitless police interviews, and paperwork that led to a certificate of presumed death. She was told that this instrument would be helpful in supporting any death claims that might be initiated back in the United States. The local public had lost all interest in the double kidnapping, and the GoFundMe account dried up at a little over $63,000. Before going home, there was one final gesture that Gloria appreciated, as the Mayor of Athens presented her with a first class plane ticket, and assisted in the refund of their two coach fares.
PART FOUR
A NEW LIFE
George Andrews was always proud of his one million dollar life insurance policy, and was careful that annual premiums were paid well before each yearly deadline. As Gloria started filing the various forms for any benefits that might accrue to her, this life insurance policy would prove to be the most significant. Masters Life Insurance Company recently celebrated their 150th anniversary, and guarding against fraud, was one of the hallmarks of their long-term success. Robert’s brother Brett was a godsend in navigating all the roadblocks that Masters Life placed before Gloria. Brett even suggested that the insurance company might want to interview the waiter at The Hen’s Cage, who served the anniversary dinner and took their picture. After four months of back and forth, Gloria received the insurance settlement.
Brett and Pamela were a little surprised when Gloria said that she needed to return to Athens for closure. They insisted that they should join her for this final farewell to George. The plan was a short four day stay at the Athens Hilton, and the opportunity to visit some of the sights the anniversary couple had planned. While Gloria was reluctant to have the company, she eventually relented and a date was set.
The first full day in Athens was spent at the Acropolis, and included Gloria, Brett, and Pamela walking in the area of the abduction. Brett soon realized the importance of facing one’s darkest moments, and quietly admonished himself for questioning his sister-in-law, and her motives. They enjoyed an early dinner together and retired to their rooms as the busy day and jet lag prepared them for a good night’s sleep.
The alarm sounded at 4:30 a.m. Gloria quickly showered and dressed. Putting several planned items in a large purse bag, she reached into the back of her suitcase and withdrew a package. Standing in front of the mirror, she adjusted the black wig over her short blond hair, and put on dark glasses. Quietly leaving the room, she exited the hotel. She walked several blocks, hailed a taxi, and pondered her future as they drove to the ferry terminal. The early morning ferry trip from Piraeus to Kavos on the southern tip of Corfu is six hours. If all went as planned, the reunion at the Morteas Hotel would be at 2 p.m. It was a crisp beautiful morning, and the sea was smooth as glass. Gloria spent the majority of the trip sitting outside and enjoying the fresh salt air. Kavos is a small town, and the Morteas Hotel was a short walk up the main street from the ferry landing.
As she entered the lobby, Gloria removed her dark glasses, and glanced around seeking a familiar face. Several people were sitting at small tables, enjoying a beverage and conversation. She continued to look around as she neared the front desk and caught the eye of the attendant. “I’m meeting a friend for a glass of wine,” she said. “Is your name Gloria?” he replied. She nodded her head, and he handed her an envelope.
PART FIVE
THE LETTER
Dear Gloria, please find a quiet corner and sit as you read this letter. For twenty-five years, honesty has been a pillar of our relationship, and this moment requires all the truthfulness, sincerity, and frankness I can muster. First, thank you for wiring the insurance proceeds. They have been received and further transferred. Here is the simple truth, we have only two million dollars and not the three million as planned. Giorgio’s and his people took their $500,000 as agreed. I have come to the difficult conclusion that the two of us cannot live on $1,500,000. I know you sacrificed a great deal throughout this ordeal, especially the physical abuse of your capture to satisfy the authorities. But here is where truth can hurt, you dropped the ball on raising the one million for my release. I always thought you were a persuasive person, and frankly, I was disappointed that your GoFundMe idea was so ineffective, and that you let the Hollywood crowd slip through your fingers without putting up a fight. You now need to move on with your life, as I also need to move on with my life. Once you reason through this surprise and hurt, you will realize you have no other option. I will not be found, and talking to authorities will have you jailed for your role in our fraudulent actions. Hopefully you have applied for Social Security disability based on my death, and you will receive my small company pension. Perhaps you can write a book or pursue the Gloria Andrews mistaken identity movie that Globe briefly mentioned. I could say more, but at this moment, you are probably too angry to hear my words. I wish you happiness in your new life, George.
Gloria could not contain herself and let out a shriek that Kronos could have heard back in Athens. Quickly walking down the street to the ferry, she heard a vehicle’s screeching brakes behind her, and a scream. Gloria had a fleeting thought that she was not the only one having a bad day. Using a telephone at the ferry building, she reached the Hilton and rang Brett and Pamela’s room. “Where have you been?” said Brett anxiously, “I needed a day on my own,” said Gloria, “See you in the morning for breakfast.” No one seemed to notice the dark-haired woman walking into the ladies room, but several took a second glance at a blond woman that walked out, reminding them of someone they might have seen on television or perhaps the movies.
Boarding the ferry, she walked to the bow and looked up toward the picturesque town that could have been the start of a new life. From a distance, she could see the recently heard commotion on the Main Street, as a blanket was being placed over a deceased pedestrian. Even if she had witnessed the accident, she probably would not have recognized George with his full beard, large sun hat, and farmers clothing. His hand was still clutching the hundred bill he was taking to the hotel clerk for services rendered. A brisk afternoon wind gave her a chill, and she turned away and walked inside.
RICHARD SWAIN