Based Upon The ABC Television Series Created By Sidney Sheldon
Written By Sara Duckworth
South Coast Plaza Afternoon
Jonathan and Jennifer are shopping one day at a shopping mall in Costa Mesa, California, located in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. They are heading toward Saks Fifth Avenue, one of the department stores in the mall.
"Darling, why are we going to all of this trouble of buying new evening clothes just for this evening?" Jonathan asks as they walk hand in hand.
"Well, you had to come all this way for a business lunch. I was going shopping. I thought you would enjoy my company before heading back to the office," Jennifer replies. "I want us to look our best tonight."
"You are going to be the head speaker. I doubt anyone will take notice of my old tuxedo. Max did have it sent to the cleaners."
"All of our friends and acquaintances are going to be attending the fundraiser. I want us to make a good impression. "
"You are worried about me not making a good impression? I thought all this time, my charm and good looks were getting me by," Jonathan replies, joking with a look of disappointment on his face.
Jennifer chuckles. "Many wealthy people from the country have accepted the invitation. First impressions are important, darling."
"Speaking of first impressions, do you know where is Max?" Jonathan asks as they reach the department store. "We haven't seen him since he said he was going to park the car."
"No, he never said a word to me, darling, " Jennifer replies as Jonathan holds the door open for her. "Some young woman probably caught his eye," she adds as they walk into Saks Fifth Avenue.
Meanwhile, Max is standing admiring a brand new automobile on display in another part of the mall. A sign stands in front. It reads, "ENTER TO WIN."
"What a beauty!" Max exclaims with a smile wishing he could own a car like that.
Max walks up to the car and takes out a form. He begins to fill out the form without reading the fine print. Ernie, a friend of Max's, is walking along when he notices him.
"I see you want to win that car along with the trip," Ernie says, walking up to Max.
"Oh, hi, Ernie," Max replies with a smile. "How is it goin'?"
"Fine. I can't complain."
"What are you doin' here? Marie with you?" Max asks as he places the form in the box.
"Of course. I wouldn't be here otherwise. Marie is gettin' herself a manicure. What are you doin' here?"
"Mr. and Mrs. H are goin' to a fundraiser tonight. Mrs. H is the head speaker. They are tryin' to raise enough money for the local humane society. "
"I haven't seen you around the track lately. Listen, what are you doin' for your birthday this year?"
"I dunno. Most likely, Mr. and Mrs. H will take me out to dinner like they always do. Why?"
"If you get bored you can come over to my place. Marie is gonna be out of town for a week visitin' her mother. I am goin' to spend the night celebration'. We can go to the track together if you like."
"Thanks for the invitation. I'll keep that in mind."
"You do that. Give my best to Jonathan and Jennifer. I have to be rushin' off. Marie should be done by now. See you around, Max. Good luck on winnin' the car!"
"Thanks. If I win, I'll take you around for a spin."
"You're on!" Ernie exclaims with a smile.
"See you later. Give my best to Marie."
Ernie waves as he walks off, leaving Max alone. Max turns around and continues staring at the car. Jonathan and Jennifer walk up to him, carrying shopping boxes in their hands.
"What a beauty! I wouldn't mind takin' her out with young chicks in the back!" Max exclaims with a smile visualizing himself in the front seat and several attractive women in the back.
"You were right in a way, darling," Jonathan says, turning to Jennifer. "He did find something that caught his eye."
"Oh, Mr. and Mrs. H, ain't she a dream?" Max asks, turning to them.
"Oh, yes. Did you enter to win?" Jennifer asks, teasing.
"Yeah, I did just a few minutes ago."
"You're kidding?" Jonathan asks. "Max, there are no guarantees you are going to win that car. I wouldn't get my hopes up too high."
"Even if you do, Max, it takes two weeks before you are notified," Jennifer says.
"I know, Mr. and Mrs. H. I've passed many of 'em cars like these on display before. I just never seen a car like this that appealed to me. She's a dream," Max replies with a smile, turning around to take a look at the vehicle.
"Max, would you mind helping me with some of these packages?" Jennifer asks, handing him several.
"Sure," Max says, taking them off of Jennifer's hands. He turns around and walks back to the vehicle.
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances.
"I have to get back to the office, Max," Jonathan tells him.
"And I have to go prepare for the fundraiser," Jennifer says, glancing at her wristwatch.
"Ok, see you later," Max replies walking around the car his mind somewhere else.
"I guess you'll be driving me to the fundraiser," Jennifer comments, turning to Jonathan.
"I guess so. Let's go, darling," Jonathan replies, taking her hand. "We are leaving," he says, turning to Max. “Don't forget the plaza closes at nine tonight."
"And be sure to call a taxi because Jonathan and I will be at the fundraiser," Jennifer says, turning to Max as they start to walk away.
"Yeah, yeah," Max mumbles as he takes a look in the driver's seat.
Jonathan and Jennifer walk away just as Max comes out of his daydream.
"Huh? I thought I was drivin'," Max says to himself. He looks up ahead to see Jonathan and Jennifer walking off. "Wait up! I'm drivin'!"
Max turns around and hurries after them.
Hart House That Night
Jennifer is sitting in the dressing room. She is facing the vanity table as she carefully puts on her lipstick while looking at herself in the mirror. She is wearing a breathtaking evening gown.
"Darling, I can't find my new black bow-tie," Jonathan shouts out from the closet area.
"It should be where the rest of your ties are, darling," Jennifer shouts back. "I put it where you would be sure to find it."
"I found it!" Jonathan shouts out to her.
"And they say women are always having trouble finding something," Jennifer whispers to herself with a smile.
"What did you say?" Jonathan asks, entering the room as he finishes tying his bow-tie. He is dressed in his new tuxedo.
"I didn't say anything," Jennifer replies, turning to her husband with a smile. "You look handsome," she says, looking at him impressed.
"And you are gorgeous," Jonathan replies, walking over to her.
"Well, thank you very much!" Jennifer exclaims with a smile. She places the lipstick back into the container before placing it on the vanity table.
"You always look gorgeous, darling," Jonathan replies as Jennifer rises to her feet.
"I return the compliment. You always look handsome," Jennifer says as they wrap their arms around each other's neck.
"You keep me young," Jonathan says, leaning over to kiss her.
"What a sweet thing to say! Careful! I just finished putting on my lipstick," Jennifer tells him.
Jonathan stops as Jennifer pulls out of the embrace. "I still have my earrings to put on."
Jonathan stands against the table as Jennifer picks up her diamond earrings.
"Can you believe how Max was behaving today?" Jonathan asks as his wife puts on her earrings.
"Yes, Max was like a little boy," Jennifer replies, turning around to face him. "What do you think?" she asks, wanting his opinion on the earrings.
"I think they are lovely."
"Do they go with this dress?"
"They go with the dress and the lovely woman wearing them," Jonathan replies.
Jennifer smiles. "Let me get my purse, and I'll be ready."
Jonathan follows her out of the room and into the bedroom.
"Darling, I think we should buy Max that car," Jonathan tells Jennifer as she walks over to the dresser.
"It's up to you, darling," Jennifer replies, picking up her purse. "Don't you think we should see if he wins first though?" she asks, turning around to face Jonathan.
"We could always return the car. I'm worried Max is getting his hopes up too high. His mind has been on that vehicle ever since he saw it."
"I haven't seen Max that excited since his horse crossed the finish line last spring. You're right. Let's go ahead and buy Max the car for his birthday."
A Street In Los Angeles
Jonathan is driving down a street in Los Angeles shortly after leaving the house. The Harts are in their Corniche.
"Are you nervous about your speech?" Jonathan asks.
"No, I have it written down in my purse. Besides, I have given lectures at seminars quite a few times I could probably do them in my sleep," Jennifer replies with a smile.
"I always said you are a woman with many talents," Jonathan says impressed.
"You are quite the flatterer and charmer. Just be sure to donate much money to the fundraiser tonight."
"Is that a bribe?" Jonathan asks, gazing at her with a smile.
"If you consider sleeping on the couch until next year a bribe yes," Jennifer replies, teasing.
"Why do you think I made sure Max put my checkbook in my tuxedo?" Jonathan asks with a wink.
"For your sake, you better have a pen in your tuxedo along with that checkbook," Jennifer says, turning to him with a wink.
Hart House
Max is sitting in the living room on a couch with a catalog featuring brand new cars for sale. He glances through the pages until he comes across the same car he saw displayed in the mall. Max whistling notices how much the vehicle is for sale. He sighs as he continues looking at his dream car. Max looking down below, sees a phone number. He rises from the couch and walks over to the bar. Max, picking up the receiver, dials information.
"I wonder if you could possibly find me a home phone number," Max says after waiting. "Yeah, I want the number for the editor of the magazine, Hot Rods Of California. I'll wait." He waits for information to locate the telephone number. "I wonder if this guy would let me take a look at that beauty," Max mumbles to himself.
Hart House Two Weeks Later
Max is sitting in the living room at the bar with a hand on the telephone receiver. He has been anxiously waiting for weeks to see if he is going to win the car and free trip with all expenses paid. Jonathan and Jennifer walk into the room through the foyer.
"Max," Jennifer says.
"Yeah, Mrs. H?" Max asks, turning around to face them.
"We have some errands to run," Jonathan replies. "We'll be taking the Mercedes."
"Ok," Max says, not really paying much attention as he stares at the receiver.
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances.
"Max, if you want to take the Corniche out for a drive here is the key," Jonathan replies, walking over to Max. He takes out a key from his pocket. "Max, here is the key to the Corniche," he says, seeing Max hasn't heard a word he said.
"Mr. H, I can't leave. If I ain't here I'll miss the call if I win," Max says, turning to face him with his hand still on the receiver.
"Max, you have hardly been out of the house for almost two weeks now. Remember Jonathan got me an answering machine," Jennifer replies with concern.
"That is why answering machines were invented," Jonathan points out. "If anyone missed a call, they would still know who called them and receive a message."
"I know, but I want to be here when and if I do receive the call. If I ain't received a call by the end of the week, then I will finally leave the house."
Jonathan turns to Jennifer. They exchange glances. Jonathan sighs as he turns back to Max. "Well, just in case, you change your mind here is the key," Jonathan says, placing the key on the bar. "See you later. Good luck!" Jonathan exclaims with a smile as he pats Max on the shoulder.
"Yeah, thanks," Max mumbles.
Jonathan walks over to Jennifer.
"Darling, I'm worried about Max," Jennifer whispers to him.
"So am I, darling," Jonathan whispers back. "I have never seen him this down before."
"Hopefully our surprise cake and gifts along with the car will cheer him up," Jennifer replies, lowing her voice. "Don't you think we should call the shop and have them deliver the car today instead of tomorrow?"
"No, let's wait. I think it is much more than winning a car and a free trip to Max. It is a matter of winning."
"I see what you mean. I just hope Max agrees to dinner tonight."
"I'll ask him," Jonathan replies, raising his voice. "Max, are we still on for dinner tonight?" he asks, turning to Max.
"What dinner?" Max asks without turning around.
"The dinner we always treat you to the night before your birthday," Jennifer tells him.
"You get to choose where we eat like you always do," Jonathan says with a smile.
"I'll think about it, Mr. and Mrs. H," Max replies as he is about to step down to fix himself a drink.
Jonathan and Jennifer turn to walk out when the telephone rings. They turn around to find out if it is the call Max has been waiting for. Max quickly picks up the receiver.
"Hart Residence. Max speakin'," Max replies, answering the call. "No, we ain't gonna subscribe to that magazine. Don't call this number again. I'm waitin' on an important call, so I need to keep the line open," Max says with annoyance in his voice before hanging up the receiver. "Annoyin' telemarketers," he mumbles to himself as he steps off of the stool.
Jonathan and Jennifer turn to face each other with a worried look on their face. Jonathan takes Jennifer by the hand, and they head toward the front door. Jonathan opens the door. After walking out of their house, Jonathan shuts the door behind them.
Hart House Later That Afternoon
Max is pacing up and down in the living room, smoking a cigar. Freeway is sitting up watching him move back and forth. The telephone rings. Max rushes over to the bar and picks up the receiver.
"Hart Residence, Max speakin'," Max says.
"Max, congratulations! You have just won your trip to Honolulu with all expenses paid," a male voice replies cheerfully on the other end of the line. "You will be receiving your first-class airfare ticket this afternoon along with your car."
"What about transportation?" Max asks excitedly.
"A car will be arriving for you in two hours to take you to the airport. Once you land in Honolulu, you will have a car completely at your disposal if you choose to use it. You will be staying at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Aloha!"
"Thanks, Aloha!" Max replies, hanging up the receiver. "I'm goin’ to Hawaii!!!" Max exclaims with a smile, thrilled he won. He starts doing the hula. Freeway watches before barking. "Oh, you're just jealous because I'm goin' to Hawaii, and you ain't!" Max exclaims, waving his hand at the dog. "Come on. I have two hours to pack," he says, looking at Freeway.
Freeway barks and follows Max out of the living room into the foyer. Max starts to walk up the stairs with Freeway close behind.
An Office In Los Angeles
"Where does this Max live again?" the woman asks.
The man picks up the form Max filled out and looks at the address. "3100 Willow Pond Drive in Bel Air," he replies as a smile comes upon his face. "Bel Air is a high dollar place where all the wealthy people live. At least when we pull the rug out from under this guy, we will have a clear conscience."
"Yes, Max will be able to pay back all his expenses, and we will be in the clear," the woman says with a wide grin.
"With the millions Max has he won't care he has to pay the internal revenue service," the man replies as he continues looking at the form.
Hart House That Evening
The front door opens. Jonathan holds the door open as Jennifer walks into the foyer.
"Max, we are home!" Jennifer exclaims as Jonathan shuts the door behind them.
Jennifer has a white box in her hand, and Jonathan is carrying several wrapped packages in his hand. They walk into the living room.
"Max!" Jonathan shouts out. "We have some surprises for you."
They walk into the kitchen to find it completely empty. Jennifer walks over to the counter and places the box down carefully. Jonathan places the packages down on the table.
"Max must have decided to take a drive after all," Jonathan says as Jennifer walks over to the refrigerator.
Jennifer is about to open the refrigerator when she notices a note taped on the door.
"Darling, come here," Jennifer replies as she reads over the note.
"What is it, darling?" Jonathan asks, walking over.
"It's a note from Max," Jennifer replies as she continues reading. "He said he won the car and the free trip to Honolulu. He won't be back for two weeks. "
"I didn't notice any car," Jonathan says.
"Ernie took it out for a ride. PS. Aloha, Mr. and Mrs. H! We'll have my birthday dinner when I get back!"
"Well, I guess we'll be eating out tonight," Jonathan replies.
"I'm excited for Max, but what are we going to do with the cake?" Jennifer asks.
"I don't know anyone else having a birthday, do you?" Jonathan asks, turning to her with a smile.
THE MANDARIN COIN CHINESE CUISINE at Japanese Village Plaza in Los Angeles
Jonathan and Jennifer have just finished eating up their Chinese dinner. There are two fortune-cookies in front of them. Jennifer is opening hers.
"Mine is interesting," Jennifer says after reading her fortune. "Someone close to you will need guidance in the future."
"I wonder who that someone could be," Jonathan replies, opening his fortune cookie.
"We know many people, and Max is out of town. What does yours say, darling?"
"Things are not always what they appear to be. Be on guard and trust your instincts. A loved one will need you to follow through with your intuitions, which are seldom wrong."
"The fortune cookie did get that part right. You do have excellent instincts," Jennifer replies with a smile.
"Thank you, darling," Jonathan says as he kisses her on the lips.
"Speaking of people we know, I wonder how Max is enjoying his trip," Jennifer comments, placing her arms on the table.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Max is enjoying attending a Lua outdoors. Max having the time of his life, is drinking a cocktail. He is wearing a Lei around his neck. Twelve Hawaiian women are feeding him chicken Kabas, grilled Pineapple. Max watches with a smile as several beautiful natives perform the hula in front of his very eyes. Traditional music is being played. It is dark outside and peaceful on Kahanamoku Beach.
Soon after the twelve women are pampering Max at the pool. They are massaging his shoulders, and his legs as Max's eyes are shut. Max's back is to the ocean, which is seen from the pool.
"Oh, this is the life! I may never go back to sunny California again!" Max exclaims with a smile. He feels like he has died and gone to heaven.
"Would you like me to give you a manicure, sir?" a woman by his feet asks.
"Yes, that would be swell. Call me, Max," Max replies as he opens his eyes. He grins ear to ear as she gives Max a warm smile.
"I shall be right back, Max," the woman tells him as she rises to her feet.
"Take your time. I ain't goin' nowhere."
The young lady smiles as she walks away from the pool.
"Would you like another cocktail?" one of the women massaging his shoulders asks.
"Yeah," Max answers, shutting his eyes again.
The lady walks away. She heads over to the bar and asks the bartender to refill Max's cocktail. Fireworks are starting to go off as the woman turns to watch them in the night sky. The bartender turns around to get the ingredients for Max's drink. While no one is watching someone out of sight is pouring a knockout drop into the glass. The person has gloves on. The bartender turns around and fills up Max's drink just as the unseen person disappears before being caught.
The woman returns with Max's glass soon after just as the other lady is giving Max a manicure.
"Here you go," she says.
"Thanks. Just set it down. I wish to enjoy the fireworks and these charmin' gals such as yourselves," Max replies as he is staring up into the sky as the fireworks continue.
The woman places the glass down and returns to massaging Max. The glass remains untouched for the present as the fireworks take over Max's attention.
"I think I died and went to heaven," Max says with a smile. "If only Mr. and Mrs. H could see me now." He turns to the lady giving him a manicure. "Say, is there a steam room here?"
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort The Following Morning
Max is sound asleep in the bed of his suite when a loud knock comes at his door. He has a bit of a hangover. Max starts to get up as his eyes adjust to the sunlight. The knock turns to a loud pounding as Max makes his way over to the door.
"All right, all right. I'm comin'," Max says, approaching the door. He opens it to find two men standing outside in the corridor.
"Yeah, what can I do for you?" Max asks, still half-asleep.
"Are you Max?" one of the men asks.
"Yeah, who are you?" Max asks, wondering what is going on.
"We're with the internal revenue service," the other man replies, showing Max his identification.
"IRS?!" Max asks baffled. "What do you want with me?"
"You are in trouble for not paying your taxes. As the new owner of this hotel, you are under investigation."
"Wait a minute. I don't own this hotel. I'm just a tourist on vacation. I arrived here yesterday!" Max exclaims with annoyance.
"Oh, you signed this paper, didn't you?" the first man asks, holding up the contract Max signed.
"Yeah, I did. So what?"
"According to the fine print, you are the new owner of the hotel. Let us see your books," the man replies with a stern look.
Max stands speechless as he realizes he was set up for a scam.
Hart House
Jonathan and Jennifer are enjoying a cup of coffee in the living room on one of the couches.
"Let's give Max a call and see how his vacation is going," Jennifer suggests.
The front doorbell rings before Jonathan can reply.
"I'll get it, darling," Jonathan replies, placing his coffee cup on the coffee table in front of them.
Jonathan rises from the couch and walks over to the door. He opens it to find a man standing outside.
"Max?" the man asks.
"No, I'm Jonathan Hart. Max is away on vacation," Jonathan explains.
"I'm here to pick up the car."
"Car? What are you talking about?" Jonathan asks as Jennifer rises from the couch.
"We are repossessing Max's car. We're with the finance company," the man replies, handing Jonathan a legal document.
Jennifer walks up to Jonathan.
"What are you talking about?" Jennifer asks as she and Jonathan exchange glances. "Max just won the car yesterday afternoon."
"I have orders to repossess the car. I don't know anything about a free car. I was only informed about repossessing the vehicle. Are you going to give me any trouble?"
"No, we are not," Jonathan replies. "We are only trying to find out why Max's car is repossessed," he says as he and Jennifer turn to see Max's brand new car being hauled by a tow-truck.
The man walks away as Jonathan and Jennifer watch the truck starting to drive away. Jonathan shuts the door.
"Jonathan, Max was a target for a scam," Jennifer says with alarm, turning to face her husband.
"Whomever the con artists are they certainly picked a perfect patsy," Jonathan replies with worry. "I'm going to call Max."
Jonathan has no sooner said those last words when the telephone on the desk rings. Jonathan walks over to the desk with Jennifer following behind. He picks up the receiver.
"Max?" Jonathan asks.
"Yeah, Mr. H, I've been set up. The car and the vacation were all a scam," Max replies on the other end of the line. He is in a state of panic.
"We know, Max. Your car was repossessed just now."
"That's not the worst of it. The internal revenue service is investigatin' me. Accordin' to the fine print, I am the new owner of Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort."
"Try to stay calm. Mrs. H and I are on our way," Jonathan replies gently before hanging up the receiver. "The internal revenue service thinks Max is the new owner of Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort," he says, turning to face Jennifer.
"Poor Max!" Jennifer exclaims. "Let's go pack," she says as she and Jonathan start to head out of the living room with Freeway following them.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Jonathan and Jennifer's jet lands hours later at Honolulu International Airport.
"Did you remember to arrange transportation, darling?" Jennifer asks.
"Yes, Kelly made all the arrangements. She rented a car for us."
"Well, Aloha! I only wish our trip could have been under pleasant circumstances," Jennifer replies.
"As soon as we get Max out of trouble we'll make time to have a little vacation for ourselves."
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Jonathan and Jennifer's rental car pulls up to the curb in front of the hotel with Jonathan at the driver's seat. He and Jennifer get out of the vehicle. They walk into the lobby, where they find Max pacing the floor with the two men from the internal revenue service standing by his side.
"Max," Jonathan says, walking over to him with Jennifer.
"Mr. and Mrs. H, I am so glad you got here! I was afraid I was gonna be arrested by these two guys!" Max exclaims in relief.
"You are not going to be arrested for the time being. You're just under investigation," the first man replies. "Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Hart, we're agents with the internal revenue service, " he says, showing his identification. "Max claims he works for you in Los Angeles at your home."
"Claims?! I do work for the Harts!!" Max insists.
"We'll handle this, Max," Jennifer replies gently, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Did you look into his story?" she asks, turning to the agent.
"Before we answer any questions, let us see some identification, please."
Jonathan takes out his wallet and shows his driver's license. "Now what did you find out?" Jonathan asks, placing his license back into his wallet.
"Only there is no evidence to support your friend's story," the second agent replies. "The contract he signed gives all ownership and responsibility to him. It is all written down in the fine print. Max not only owes taxes for the Hilton Hawaiian Village. He also owes taxes for the car he claims winning along with expenses for this trip," he says, handing Jonathan the contract Max signed.
"That doesn't prove anything," Jennifer says. "Has it ever occurred to you Max was a target for a scam? So what do you mean there is no evidence to support his story?"
"We've checked with the bank," the first agent replies. "An account is in his full name, which is entirely empty. Also, we got hold of an address which is located here in Honolulu. Max's name is on the mailbox, and in the contracts he signed at a real-estate office. "
"Did you check with the staff here and the airport?" Jonathan asks, handing the contract to his wife to look over.
"Yes, we did, Mr. Hart. The staff says Max has been the owner of this hotel for several weeks now after taking over previous ownership. The airport stewardess told us no passenger by the name of Max was on yesterday's flight at any time. Looks like a fraud to invade income taxes he owes."
"It is a fraud all right," Jonathan replies, handing the paper back to the agent. "Only not by Max. Who is the previous owner?"
"It doesn't matter. Now that Max has signed that contract all ownership is legally his. We got a call from the previous owner who informed us that Max bought the Hilton from him. My partner and I looked into it. All paperwork required for ownership has Max's signature along with the date."
"That's a lie!" Max exclaims with anger at being accused of defrauding the internal revenue service.
"Max, it is all right," Jonathan assures him taking out his checkbook and pen. "I'll pay the internal revenue service. How much does he owe?" Jonathan asks, pen ready to write out a check.
"$400,026,106.31."
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances as Jonathan writes out the amount on the check. He hands the check to the first agent.
Max is in shock at how much money Jonathan had to pay the IRS. He falls to the floor in a faint.
"Max!" Jonathan exclaims as he and Jennifer walk over to him.
They bend down and take Max's hands. The Harts pat him, hoping he will regain consciousness. Max's eyes slowly open, and he comes through.
"Are you all right?" Jennifer asks as she and Jonathan help him up to his feet.
"I'm fine, Mrs. H. I just panicked when I heard how much Mr. H had to pay," Max replies.
"Don't worry, Max. You are worth all those zeros," Jonathan assures him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"Thank you! Since the internal revenue service was just paid the amount owed, Max will not be facing charges," the first agent says, placing the check into his pocket.
He and the other agent walk away leaving the Harts and Max alone.
"Geez! I don't know what to say except I'm sorry, Mr. H!" Max exclaims turning to Jonathan with a look of shame. "I guess that's what I get for not readin' the fine print."
"It is all right, Max," Jonathan says, placing his pen and checkbook back into the pocket of his suit. "Just be sure to read the fine print the next time."
"After what I just went through ain't goin' to be a reason to read the fine print. Let's go home," Max replies with a sigh.
"Wait a minute, Max. Don't you want to find out who pulled the scam on you?" Jennifer asks, surprised.
"No, I am just thankful I got out of this mess I got myself into."
"I am not satisfied," Jonathan says. "Someone took advantage of you. Jennifer and I are going to find out who and why."
"Suit yourself, Mr. H," Max replies with a shrug. "Hey, I just remembered I was given this card with a telephone number after I checked in," he adds, taking out a card.
Jennifer looks over the card Jonathan is reading. It reads, "Hawaiian Travel Delights. Telephone Number: 808-345-9205. Address: 205 Alohahulu Street, Honolulu Hawaii, 96815"
"I'm going to call this number. I have a hunch this Hawaiian Travel Delights doesn't even exist," Jonathan replies, looking up at Max.
He and Jennifer walk over to a phone on the front desk. Jonathan picks up the receiver and dials the number. After waiting a few moments, a voice comes on the line. "I'm sorry, but the number you have dialed is no longer in service," the operator replies.
Jonathan hangs up the receiver. "That figures. The number is no longer in service," Jonathan replies, turning to Jennifer. He turns to Max. "Get your luggage. Mrs. H and I are taking you to our hotel."
llikai Hotel & Luxury Suites
Jonathan, Jennifer, and Max are enjoying a late lunch at a restaurant in the hotel. Cocktail glasses are by their side. Jennifer is sipping her cocktail as Jonathan talks to Max.
"Think back, Max. Was there anything suspicious before or after you checked in?"
"Nah, Mr. H," Max replies. "I didn't notice anythin’ out of the ordinary except when I woke up this mornin'."
"What was that?" Jennifer asks.
"That those twelve Hawaiian dames who were givin' my back and feet a massage around the pool had disappeared. They never left my side until I hit the sack last night. I had such a hangover this mornin'! I only had a few cocktails."
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances.
"What is it?" Max asks, noticing the expression on their faces.
"Max, someone drugged you," Jonathan says, turning back to him.
"Why would someone want to put me to sleep?"
"So you would be too unconscious to know what was happening until it was too late."
"They didn't want to take a chance on you noticing those women leaving the hotel and possibly finding out about the scam," Jennifer explains.
"What I don't understand is how they could have made it look like I have an account at some bank," Max replies, baffled.
"Max, whoever pulled the scam had to have help. They couldn't have pulled off the scheme by themselves. I'm willing to bet that the brains behind the operation were the owner," Jonathan replies.
"Money withdrawn from the bank was transferred to another bank where he opened an account by using an assumed name."
"Yes, a bank in another country where the money couldn't be traced. Swiss Bank accounts are commonly used to hide criminal activities. Come to think of it since you listed on the form our address it is no coincidence they picked you as their patsy. Bel Air is commonly known as a neighborhood occupied by wealthy residents. The con artists had no way of knowing you didn't own our property. They figured with all the millions they thought you are worth their scam was perfect."
"Only what could his accomplices gain by takin' me for a ride, Mr. and Mrs. H?" Max asks. "Money?"
"That is a strong possibility, but scams can also attain something else of strong value."
"Are you thinking whoever planned the scheme had another reason for making Max the fall guy, darling?" Jennifer asks as she sets her glass down.
"Yes, I am darling. Call it my business sense," Jonathan replies.
"That explains what our fortune-cookies meant," Jennifer comments as she remembers what the fortunes predicted.
"What?" Max asks.
"Nothing. Just something our fortune-cookies mentioned last night."
They continue sipping their drinks as Max notices a young Hawaiian woman walking toward a table she is waiting on. Max instantly recognizes the woman as one of the many women giving him a massage.
"What is it?" Jennifer asks as she follows Max's gaze.
"It's one of the dames that gave me a massage last night," Max replies, sitting up.
He rises from his seat. Max walks over to her just as the young woman is about to step out of the restaurant.
"Hey, do you remember me?" Max asks.
Jonathan and Jennifer rise to their feet. They walk over to Max.
"Max, don't make a scene," Jonathan warns him.
"I ain't goin' to make a scene, Mr. H. I just want to ask this dame if she remembers givin' me a massage last night at the Hilton."
"Sir, you must be mistaken. I have never worked at the Hilton Hawaiian Village," she replies, smiling at Max.
"Don't lie to me! You gave me a massage last night along with eleven other women by the pool!" Max exclaims with annoyance. "Who paid you to take me for a ride?"
"Ride? I never took any tourist for a ride as long as I lived here. You clearly have me mistaken for someone else. Excuse me. I have to get back to my job," the woman replies as she brushes past them.
"That dame is a liar, Mr. and Mrs. H!" Max insists as he and the Harts watch her walk away.
"We believe you, Max, but you need to calm down. You are not going to accomplish anything by losing your temper," Jonathan tells him gently.
"I'm goin’ to the pool! I've had enough deception I can take!" Max exclaims. "I'll see you later," he says as he heads toward the pool.
Jonathan and Jennifer look after Max with deep concern.
"I have never seen Max get angry like that," Jennifer says, turning to Jonathan.
"It isn't every day Max finds himself falling for a scam. Take care of the check, darling. Meet me in the lobby," Jonathan replies, turning to face his wife.
Jennifer nods and walks back to their table to wait for their check. Jonathan heads out of the restaurant and walks into the lobby. He notices the woman hurrying out of the lobby. Jonathan quietly walks after her as she rushes out of the hotel. He stops at the door as he sees the woman get into a vehicle and speed away. Jonathan rushes back into the lobby. Jennifer walks up to him.
"We have to hurry. The woman just took off in a car," Jonathan says, taking his wife's hand.
Jonathan and Jennifer run out of the hotel, hurrying toward their rental car. Jonathan speeds on the gas as Jennifer shuts the passenger door.
"Jonathan, a yellow light," Jennifer warns her husband as they come upon a light.
Jonathan speeds up the gas even more. He manages to run right through the light before it turns red. Jennifer sighs in relief as Jonathan slows the vehicle down a little. Jonathan, seeing the young Hawaiian woman up ahead, slows down the gas even more. She turns right onto Ala Moana Boulevard. Jonathan turns at the same boulevard. They drive less than two miles making a U-turn at Kalia Road. The woman takes a slight right turn. Jonathan is doing the same. They approach Ala Moana, which is a large shopping mall in the Ala Moana neighborhood of Honolulu.
The young Hawaiian walks right into the mall. Jonathan and Jennifer get out of the car. They carefully and discreetly follow her. After passing several shops, the woman approaches a payphone. She takes out some change before depositing them in the slot and dialing a number.
"Darling, I want you to act as if you are placing a call," Jonathan says, taking Jennifer aside so they won't be noticed.
Jennifer nods. Jonathan watches his wife as she walks up to a payphone out of sight next to the woman. The woman is speaking nervously in Polynesian. She holds a piece of paper in her hand. Jennifer is acting as if she is placing a call. She picks up the receiver and holds it over her ear as she listens to the woman's side of the conversation. Jennifer glances over her shoulder. After a minute the young Hawaiian hangs up the receiver. Jonathan turns his back as she passes by him. Jennifer hangs up the receiver and returns to her husband.
"What did she say?" Jonathan asks.
"I wouldn't know unless I had my translation book with me. It's been a while since I spoke Polynesian. The young woman was talking very fast and was in a state of nerves. "
Jennifer catches sight of the woman as she sees her toss the paper in the trashcan. "Jonathan, look," Jennifer says, pointing behind her. Jonathan turns around. The woman starts to head back to her car.
"Come on, darling," Jonathan replies, taking his wife by the hand.
"She just threw the paper into the trashcan," Jennifer mentions to her husband as they approach the trashcan. She reaches in and picks up the piece of paper. A telephone number is written down on the paper, 808-369-0827.
The Harts hurry back to their vehicle. Jonathan once again steps on the gas as the woman is driving away. They come upon another light. The light turns red. Just as the woman is getting further away from them, the light turns green. Jonathan steps on the gas again as the car chases after the woman.
They turn left onto Lunalilio Street. Minutes later, Jonathan and Jennifer are still following the young lady. They turn left before merging onto the highway. After driving for several miles, they take an exit onto west of Nimitz Highway. The young woman makes a U-turn at a street. Jonathan makes a U-turn on the same street.
"Whomever she is meeting up with, darling, she is taking a long route," Jennifer comments. "Do you think she suspects we're following her?" she asks, turning to Jonathan.
"I don't think so. It doesn't seem like she is taking a joyride though, darling," Jonathan replies.
The woman taking a slight right turn drives onto Sand Island Access Road. Jonathan makes a right turn heading onto the same road. They reach Sand Island Beach. The Harts and the woman park in the parking lot facing the beach. Jonathan and Jennifer watch as she hurries toward the shore. She steps over the gates to the camping area of the beach.
"At least she didn't park in the tow-away zone," Jennifer remarks.
The beach is deserted as the young Hawaiian native runs toward the water.
"Let's go do some unethical entering of our own," Jonathan replies, opening his car door.
Jennifer opens her door and gets out of the vehicle. The couple walks over to the gates. Jonathan is helping his wife step over the gates. Jonathan steps over them. The Harts walk hand in hand toward the shore. Once they reach the beach, they see the woman swimming out to a yacht. A man holds his hand out and helps her climb aboard. The boat is too far out to see who the man is.
Jonathan and Jennifer watch as the young woman and the man engage in a discussion which turns into a heated argument. He pushes the woman around before throwing her onto the floor. The man heads down below before returning with a gun. The woman screams as he aims the weapon at her. Jonathan and Jennifer watch in shock and horror as he pulls the trigger. The woman falls. A devious smile comes across his face. He takes out the anchor from the water and starts the engine.
"He is going to get away!" Jonathan exclaims.
He takes off his wristwatch, which he hands to Jennifer. Jonathan hurries toward the water.
"Jonathan, you are wearing the new suit I got you! You can't catch up!" Jennifer exclaims in shock at Jonathan, starting to swim out to the yacht.
Jennifer runs up to the water and watches as Jonathan attempts to swim with all his strength. The yacht has started to sail away from the beach. Jonathan continues swimming. He is still hopeful he can catch up to the boat. The boat is getting further and further away as Jonathan continues swimming out to sea. The yacht finally sails out of sight. Jonathan stops swimming and watches as he sees the boat disappear.
Jonathan is walking up to his wife after swimming back to shore. Jennifer has her hands on her hips and is looking at her husband, annoyed.
"Jonathan, you got that new suit I got for you only a few weeks ago all wet! What do you have to say for yourself?!" Jennifer asks, waiting to hear his response.
Jonathan stops to think before responding. "Is it drip dry?" he asks with a sly smile.
Jennifer looks at him annoyed before finally bursting into a laugh. Jonathan laughs as Jennifer hands him his watch. Jonathan places it back on before embracing Jennifer.
"Darling, you are getting me all wet!" Jennifer exclaims with a chuckle.
"I am?" Jonathan asks with a devious smile.
Jennifer looks at him, not sure what he is up to now. Jonathan picks her up and carries her over to the water.
"Put me down!!!" Jennifer exclaims in disbelief. She bursts into a laugh as Jonathan throws her gently into the ocean.
"Now we are both wet!" Jonathan exclaims with a smile, laughing at the stunt he just pulled on his wife.
"I'll get even with you just yet," Jennifer replies with a devious smile.
Jonathan walks over to the water and reaches his hand out to help her out when Jennifer unexpectedly grabs him by the hand. She pulls him into the ocean.
"How does it feel to have the shoe on the other foot?" Jennifer asks bursting into a laugh as they exchange glances.
"Well, I did cool down," Jonathan says with a wink.
Ilikai Hotel And Resort
Jonathan is standing talking on the telephone to a police officer in their suite. He is wearing a bathrobe. The door to the bathroom is closed. A blowdryer can be heard coming from the other room.
"Yes, lieutenant, we have no idea who the woman was. All I can tell you is that she was a waitress in a restaurant at Ilakini. My wife and I saw a man shoot her on a yacht at The Sand Island Beach. Thank you! I appreciate you contacting me just as soon as you find the boat. Goodbye," Jonathan replies before hanging up the receiver.
Just then the blowdryer stops. Jonathan is pacing the room thinking. The door to the bathroom opens, and Jennifer walks into the room wearing her robe.
"Jonathan, the next time you decide to throw me into the water could you make sure we are not wearing expensive clothing?" she asks, walking into the room.
Jonathan is thinking over the scam and murder they witnessed at the beach.
"Jonathan," Jennifer says with concern, walking over to her husband.
"Yes, darling?" Jonathan asks as he turns around to face her.
"Are you all right?"
"Yes, I was just thinking about the shooting on the yacht."
"They'll find the yacht. Do the Honolulu Police have the coastguard searching?"
"Yes, the lieutenant told me they would be out to sea just as soon as he contacted them, but it's not the yacht that is bothering me. I have a feeling we are overlooking something."
"What do you mean? We don't have anything to go on except the number the woman called at the mall."
"Do you still have that number?"
"Of course, it's in my purse. I'll get it," Jennifer replies. She walks over to her purse on a table and takes out the paper with the telephone number. Jonathan walking over, takes the piece of paper.
Jonathan picks up the telephone receiver and dials the number. After waiting a few moments, the operator comes on the line. "I'm sorry, but the number you have dialed is disconnected." Jonathan hangs up the receiver. "Another number that has been disconnected," he says, turning to face his wife.
"It is as if the person's telephone was deliberately disconnected. How could a woman call a number that is going to be disconnected?" Jennifer wonders aloud.
"Very easy. The only thing the person that the young woman was talking to had to do was to have their phone disconnected just as soon as contact had been made."
"So the owner of the landline couldn't be traced," Jennifer concludes.
"Right, which means that whoever is in cohort with the manager of the Hilton Hawaiian Village is clever enough to cover up his tracks."
Later that evening, Jonathan, Jennifer, and Max are riding in the back of a limousine.
"Max, where are you taking us?" Jennifer asks him who is seated next to Jonathan.
The Harts are dressed in their elegant evening clothes. Jonathan is wearing a tuxedo and Jennifer an evening dress.
"It'll be clear in a just a few moments, Mrs. H," Max says. "It's a surprise."
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange smiles. The vehicle approaches the Honolulu Harbor. The famous Aloha Tower comes into view as the limousine passes Pier 9.
"Drop us off at Pier 8," Max informs the driver. "This is where you'll be gettin' off, Mr. and Mrs., H," he says, turning to Jonathan and Jennifer.
Soon after the vehicle approaches Pier 8 where a cruise ship is docked in the harbor. Passengers board the boat. The name of the ship is Star Of Honolulu.
"Well, darling, shall we?" Jonathan asks, turning to his wife as Max holds the door open for them.
"Thank you, Max," Jonathan replies as he gets out of the vehicle before helping his wife out.
"Don't mention it," Max says with a warm smile. "Enjoy yourselves."
"Max, this is our surprise?!" Jennifer asks stunned as she turns to him with a smile. She can't believe Max had arranged for Jonathan and herself to participate in a dinner cruise.
"Yeah, I figured after all the trouble you've been through because of me fallin' for that scam I owed you one. This trip ain't been what you and Mr. H would call paradise."
"We appreciate the gesture, but you can't afford to treat us to this dinner cruise," Jonathan says, turning to Max. "At least let me pay you back."
"Ain't no need to. I charged this dinner cruise on your credit card. Sorry, I didn't ask first, but I wanted the dinner to be a surprise."
"If you plan to use my card for surprises like this, you can use it anytime, Max, as long as you don't get carried away," Jonathan tells him with a smile.
"Thanks, Mr. H. I'm gonna leave you two now. I have some plans of my own this evenin'."
"Have a good time," Jennifer tells him.
"Thanks, I'll be back in time to pick you up with the limousine."
"This trip is supposed to be a vacation for you, Max. Jonathan and I can get ourselves a limousine back to the hotel."
"Thanks, but I have a deal. If I bring the limousine straight back to the hotel after the cruise, it ain't gonna cost Mr. H a dime."
Jonathan and Jennifer start to walk over to the ship with Jonathan's arm around his wife's shoulder. Max is about to get back into the car when he remembers something.
"Oh, Mr. H, can you lend me some pocket money?" he asks, turning to Jonathan. "I need some cash to pay the driver. That is also part of the bargain."
Jonathan turns around to face Max. He takes out his wallet. He takes out a hundred dollar bill when he is about to ask Max how much money he needs.
"Thanks. I'll give you the change," Max says, taking the cash.
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances as Max gets back into the limousine. The car takes off, leaving Jonathan and Jennifer alone.
"Darling, remind me to take that pocket money out of Max's next paycheck," he says, turning to his wife.
"I will, darling," Jennifer replies chuckling.
Jonathan again places his arm around his wife's shoulder. They board the Star Of Honolulu. The crew greets them as they come aboard.
After dinner, Jonathan and Jennifer stand out on the deck, admiring the view as they drink a fruit cocktail and wrap their arm around each other's shoulder. They point out the sights to each other.
As the sunsets in Hawaii, Jonathan takes his wife in his arms and kisses her.
Ilikai Hotel And Resort
The next day Jonathan and Jennifer are sleeping in late. They are still in a romantic mood after their dinner cruise the previous evening. The couple has their arms wrapped around each other's neck as they are kissing each other on the lips with their eyes shut. Jennifer is leaning her head against the bed as Jonathan is leaning over her. The telephone on the other side of the room rings.
"Darling, the telephone is ringing," Jennifer says in between kisses.
"Does that mean you want me to answer it?" Jonathan asks as he kisses his wife on the neck behind her ear.
"Yes," Jennifer replies with a smile as the telephone continues ringing.
Jonathan gives his wife one more kiss on the lips. They smile as Jonathan rises from the bed on his side. He walks over to the table to answer the persistent ringing.
"Hello, Jonathan Hart," Jonathan says, answering the call. He listens to the person on the other end of the line. "What? How is that even possible, lieutenant?" Jonathan asks in shock. "Yes, we'll be right over," he says, writing down an address on a piece of paper with a pen. He hangs up the receiver.
"What is it?" Jennifer asks as she stretches her arms and legs.
"The coastguard located the yacht, but the woman is not on board," Jonathan replies, turning to face his wife. "The police didn't even find any traces of blood."
A look of shock comes across her face as she sits up. She is still not able to process what her husband just told her.
"What?! Jonathan, you and I saw a man shoot that woman in cold-blood," Jennifer insists.
"You know that, darling, but without a body, we can't convince the authorities a murder was even committed," Jonathan replies. "Let's get dress. The coastguard and the police are waiting for us," he says as Jennifer forces herself to get out of bed.
A while later, Jonathan and Jennifer are helped out of a boat owned by the coastguard. The police are waiting for them on the yacht. They are somewhere far deep out in the ocean somewhere away from Honolulu.
"Good morning, Mr. Hart," an older Hawaiian police officer greets them.
"Good morning, Lieutenant Kelekolio," Jonathan replies. "This is my wife, Jennifer," he says, introducing the lieutenant.
"Aloha, Lieutenant Keleolio," Jennifer replies with a smile.
"Aloha, Mrs. Hart," the lieutenant replies with a smile. "Is this some sick prank?" he asks, turning to Jonathan with a look of annoyance on his face.
"Prank? Lieutenant, my wife and I did witness a man shoot a young native from Hawaii on this very yacht yesterday," Jonathan insists.
"Have you and your wife been prescribed some particular medication with a side effect that causes hallucinations?" Lieutenant Kelekolio asks casually.
"Hallucinations?!!!" Jonathan and Jennifer both exclaim at the same time.
"Certainly not!" Jennifer exclaims with a bit of annoyance. "My husband and I followed this woman to The Sand Island Beach yesterday afternoon. We witnessed from the beach her boarding the boat."
"Then we saw this man argue with her and push her to the ground before shooting her," Jonathan tells him calmly.
"Why were you following her?" the lieutenant asks.
"We think she was involved in a scam. Max, who works for us, was tricked into believing he won a free car along with an all-expenses-paid trip to Hawaii. Only the day after he arrived, she and the other eleven women who were giving him a massage by the pool disappeared. Then two agents from the internal revenue service showed up. They thought Max was trying to cheat them out of paying income taxes."
"You see in the fine print it clearly states that whoever signs the contract is legally the sole owner of the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Max is staying with us at the Illaki. He saw this young woman at the restaurant yesterday. She insisted she had never seen him before," Jennifer explains.
"And that's when we followed her," Jonathan says.
"Any idea what her involvement in this scam is?"
"No, that is why we were following her. We hoped we could find out her side of the story."
"That is some incredible story you just told me, Mr. and Mrs. Hart. As you can see for yourself, there is no one on board this yacht," the lieutenant replies.
"Do you mind if we look around?"
"If you want to waste your time in tropical paradise looking for a murder victim that doesn't exist, be my guest," Lieutenant Kelekolio says with a shrug. "My men are done here. The coastguard will wait for you."
He starts to step off the yacht when he turns back to the Harts. "If this native were shot on board the victim and killer must be magicians," the officer says with a chuckle, turning to face Jonathan and Jennifer.
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances. The lieutenant finding humor in the situation does not amuse them. He steps off of the boat onto a police boat with the help of several other Hawaiian officers. The Harts watch them sail out of sight.
"I just love funny exiting lines," Jennifer replies sarcastically, turning to her husband.
"I guess we should have notified Five-O," Jonathan replies. "Let's look around."
He and Jennifer begin looking through the yacht for any clues to the mysterious woman shot. They look through the cabin when Jennifer's eyes notice something on the floor. She bends down to see they are earrings. Jennifer picks them up.
"Jonathan," she says, turning to her husband who is looking around behind his wife. He turns to see Jennifer holding the earrings in her hand.
"Where did you find the earrings?"
"They were on the floor next to me," Jennifer replies as Jonathan walks over to her.
"Could I see those, darling?" Jonathan asks.
Jennifer hands her husband the earrings. Jonathan looks them over. "What do you think?" Jennifer asks.
"I think the earrings prove we weren't suffering from hallucinations. There was a woman on this yacht, and she was shot," Jonathan replies as he still examines the earrings. "A cove," he says as he thinks out loud.
"What?" Jennifer asks as Jonathan hands her back the earrings.
"I think the woman is alive and is hiding out in a cove somewhere here in Hawaii," Jonathan says, turning to look at Jennifer.
"Then if what you are thinking, darling, is true, then being shot was just a ruse."
"Yes, let's go rent ourselves a boat."
A while later Jonathan and Jennifer are in a boat somewhere out to sea away from the mainland. Jonathan is at the wheel driving while Jennifer is looking over a map.
"I found a cove near where we are," Jennifer tells her husband. "Kahauloa Cove."
Just then the Harts hear a boat behind them. It gets closer and closer. The boat is in clear view as it is heading toward the rental boat Jonathan is driving. It is going fast. Jennifer turns to look behind them and sees the boat appears to be coming at them.
"How good are your motor skills?" Jennifer asks, turning to Jonathan.
"Why do you ask?" Jonathan asks as he looks up ahead, searching for the cove.
"There's a boat behind us, and it appears not to be out just for a ride."
Jonathan turns his head around with his hands still on the wheel as he sees the boat catching up to them.
"You're right!" Jonathan exclaims as he attempts to drive the vessel out of the way to avoid being hit.
Just then the boat hits the back of the Harts' boat with all of its force. Jennifer falls to the ground due to the impact. Jonathan holds tightly onto the wheel.
"Are you all right?" Jonathan asks as Jennifer carefully lifts herself up to her feet.
"I'm fine. I've heard of car collisions, but a boat collision is ridiculous," Jennifer replies with annoyance.
Just then their boat is hit again, but stronger this time. Jennifer is about to fall when she catches hold of the side of the boat.
"Try to hold on tight, darling. We're in for a bumpy ride," Jonathan warns his wife as he starts to move the boat away.
Jonathan is leading the boat in another direction as the other vessel turns in the same course. He speeds up the engine. The other boat hits them with full force. Jonathan almost loses his balance as he holds tightly onto the wheel. Jonathan wonders which path he should drive the boat, but he knows no matter which one he chooses the other driver is going to continue to try to capsize the boat. The other craft hits them even harder. Water from the ocean comes splashing onto the boat. Jonathan and Jennifer find themselves soaked.
"Jonathan, what are we going to do?" Jennifer asks wondering how Jonathan is going to get them out of this unpleasant situation they found themselves in.
"Take the wheel," Jonathan replies.
Jennifer carefully makes her way over to the helm. She takes over the wheel. Jonathan tiptoes around, looking for some equipment on board to fight back. He walks over to the anchor. He is about to pick it up when the other boat hits them. Water splashes onto the boat once more just as Jonathan ducks. Jonathan picks up the anchor. He holds it ready to hurl it toward the other driver's direction. Jonathan throws the anchor, aiming it toward the windshield. It misses as the driver turns to get out of the way.
"How are you doing?" Jennifer asks without turning around.
"Let me put it this way. If Jaws were coming after us, he'd be eating us for lunch," Jonathan replies with a sigh.
The boat speeding toward them again is heading toward the side. Their boat is bumped again. Water splashes onto the floor. Jonathan is about to stand up when the other driver hits them twice.
"Jonathan!" Jennifer exclaims with worry.
"Keep your hands on the wheel. I have an idea," Jonathan replies as he carefully makes his way to a fire extinguisher while holding onto the side to prevent himself from tripping.
Jonathan picks up the extinguisher just as the boat is struck. More water splashes. Jonathan makes his way over to the side, determined to put an end to this attack. The other driver rams into them so hard that Jennifer has to steer away so they won't be capsized. This incident gives her husband the upper hand as the other vessel drives toward them. Jonathan waits until the driver is close enough before he holds up the fire extinguisher. Jonathan lets their attacker have it just as he strives to strike them again. Jonathan sprays the driver in the face with the extinguisher.
The fire extinguisher takes him off guard. He yells in pain as he finds himself blinded by the powder form within the extinguisher. The unseen driver loses control of the wheel resulting in the boat drifting away from Jonathan and Jennifer. Jennifer sighs in relief as she slows their boat down.
"Well, darling, you put out that fire rather quickly," Jennifer replies, impressed.
Jonathan turns to her with a smile. "Thanks. You handled the wheel good yourself. Want to take over?" he asks, jokingly.
"No, thanks, I've had enough of driving a boat for one day," Jennifer says as Jonathan takes control of the wheel.
Jonathan and Jennifer are reaching Kahauloa Cove, which is near Lanai Lookout. Jonathan drives the boat up to the bay before bringing it to a stop. They carefully step out near the water. The sounds of the ocean are heard as the waves come upon the cove.
"If that young Hawaiian woman is hiding out here, it is not in a discreet part of the island," Jennifer whispers to her husband as they look around for a cave. Jonathan is holding his wife's hand.
After a few moments of searching around the bay, the couple comes upon a cave. They walk in and see the young woman sitting on a rock with her head downcast. The Harts quietly approaches her. The woman looks up and gasps as she notices Jonathan and Jennifer standing in front of her.
"Don't worry. We are not going to harm you," Jennifer says in a gentle tone.
"No, but we are going to ask you a few questions," Jonathan tells her. "After almost having our boat capsized, I am in no mood for guessing games. Are you going to tell us what is going on or do we need to take you down to the Honolulu Police?"
"No, that won't be necessary," she replies with a frown. "I didn't want to hurt Max. He is such a sweet man, but that man threatened to tell the police I thought of the scam."
"That is why you fooled us into believing you were shot?" Jennifer asks.
"Yes, it was all his idea. It was all a plan to stop you from investigating. The gun was filled with blanks. I got involved because I am from a poor family, and I don't make enough money as a waitress. I can barely provide for my siblings and mother," she replies as tears come into her eyes. "I had no idea I was involved in a scam until it was too late. The other ladies and I were asked if we would like to earn some extra money. We were only told what our job was. It wasn't until the man called up the next morning and told us we had to leave I knew something illegal was going on."
"Why didn't you go straight to the police?" Jonathan asks.
"I wanted to, but that man warned me if I mentioned one word I would live to regret it. However, now I already do after he finally confessed to me why the scam was pulled."
"Do you know the number you dialed yesterday had been disconnected?" Jennifer asks.
"No, that man said I was only to contact him if anyone approached me about giving Max a massage at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. I was to call him and then dispose of the number in the trashcan. I apologize for getting Max in such serious trouble. I would never have agreed if I knew I was going to be an accessory. You do believe me, don't you?" she asks, turning to look at Jennifer before Jonathan.
"We believe you," Jonathan replies, managing a slight smile. "But we will have to turn you over to the police. They'll go easy on you if you tell your side of the story."
"But he'll kill me before I give the authorities my statement," the young native replies with fear.
"We'll provide you with police protection around the clock," Jennifer assures her.
The woman smiles at Jennifer. Jennifer smiles at her and places a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"Let's go. The sooner we get you away from the bay, the safer you'll be," Jonathan says.
The woman nods. Jonathan helps her down from the rock.
"By the way, my name is Jonathan Hart, and this is my wife, Jennifer," Jonathan tells her as they start to walk out of the cave together.
"It is nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Hart. I'm Liliana."
"It is nice to meet you, Liliana," Jennifer replies, taking her hand. "Oh, we found your earrings on the yacht," she remembers as she reaches into her purse. She takes out the earrings and hands them to the native Hawaiian.
"Thank you," Liliana says with a smile as she puts the earrings on.
The Harts and Liliana start to walk over to the rental boat. A rifle is aimed at Liliana. Just as Jonathan is about to help her into the boat, she is shot. She screams as she falls to the ground. They rush to her side. Jonathan and Jennifer look up to see the same man, who attempted to capsize their boat, standing on a yacht with a rifle in his hand. They see a passenger on board who appears to be a woman. The couple notices the name of the ship as it starts to sail out of sight. The name is Frangipani.
Meanwhile, on the yacht, the man and a woman are walking into a cabin. They are the same man and woman from Los Angeles, who phoned Max, telling him he won the car along with the trip. A man whose back is turned towards them faces them. He is an older Hawaiian man.
"Did you kill Liliana?" he asks.
"Yes, I did. I heard her scream."
"I hope you did. Your shooting skills need to be better than your attempt to capsize Jonathan and Jennifer Hart's boat."
"Do you think the Harts can trace you?" the woman asks.
"I don't see how. I got rid of all my identity that I ever existed and was a born citizen of Hawaii. Even my credit cards were destroyed. With your help, I had all my money transferred to a Swiss bank account. I even fooled my employees into thinking that I turned ownership over to Max. Most likely, the couple will believe I have fled the country."
"He is right," the man says, turning to the woman. "We got hold of the passenger list before the internal revenue service agents questioned the stewardess. It is not as if we are running this scam frequently with other people involved."
"We should have followed up on who lived at the address Max gave us. Then we could have disappeared from the country immediately instead of waiting," the woman replies.
"Yes, following up beforehand would have worked to our advantage," the older Hawaiian man agrees. "But I'm sure a businessman like Jonathan Hart is too intelligent to have fallen for our scam."
"At least you're not paying us."
"We need to be extremely cautious from now on. If you haven't been following Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Hart, we wouldn't have discovered about them searching for Liliana. I want you to keep them under surveillance when I tell you to from this moment on. Too much trailing is too risky. Remember to be sure you are inconspicuous as much as possible. Don't take any action without contacting me first," he tells the other man firmly. "And don't let that paper out of your sight," he orders the woman. "I'm susceptible to secret meetings being found out. Hart must have connections so I wouldn't be a bit surprised if the FBI were contacted.
I'm curious. You worked for a living, and now you are accessories to a crime. Why did you agree to help me con this Max and the IRS?"
"You recommended us to our former employer and helped us get settled in Hawaii."
"We figured we owed you a favor, Manuela," the man explains, taking a seat across from him along with the woman.
"Besides, we love danger, and the idea of hiding out while you provide us with such an extravagant lifestyle makes our partnership much more thrilling than have to work for a living."
"That is why I worked most of my life before opening up the Hilton," Manuela replies. He walks over to a bar to pour himself a drink. "I too love living good, but I also hate paying money to the government. I wish I didn't have to leave the Aloha State and the resort behind, but someone spoiled like myself has to learn all good things must come to an end."
He picks up his glass and walks over to his companions. "I would like to take this opportunity to say it has been a pleasure and privilege knowing you, and I hope someday we will get to enjoy the luxurious life again somewhere that brings back memories of Hawaii."
"I just hope we covered up our loose ends," the woman says.
"Liliana has been taken care of. She won't be able to breathe a word," the man replies, placing an assuring arm around her shoulder.
Over twenty minutes later, an ambulance with its siren blazing is speeding down a street heading toward a hospital. Jonathan and Jennifer are driving behind in their rental Mercedes. The ambulance turns right before turning into Kapiolani Medical Center. It comes to an abrupt stop at Emergency entrance.
Soon after the young Hawaiian woman, who is on a stretcher, is wheeled into the emergency room. She is alive suffering from only a shoulder injury. Jennifer is standing by her side as a young female doctor walks into the room. The ambulance attendants help the woman onto the examining table before wheeling the stretcher out.
"What happened?" the doctor asks, walking over to examine her patient.
"She was shot in the shoulder at Kahauloa Cove. My husband, Jonathan Hart, is signing the admittance papers now. We were with her at the time of the shooting."
"What is your name?" the doctor asks.
"Liliana," the young native replies just as Jonathan walks into the room.
He walks over to his wife's side.
"You're a very fortunate young lady," the doctor replies after examining the injury. "I would like to keep you here for observation. I think you are going to be all right. It is only a flesh wound. Your would-be killer somehow only managed to give you a superficial wound. I'd say he must not be that experienced with guns. I would like for you to rest and take it easy. A nurse will come in and assist you to your room. You are to take antibiotics I will prescribe so an infection can be prevented. Keep your shoulder propped up with pillows. Elevation helps reducing swelling. Remember also to keep the wound clean. I'll be by to check on you later," the doctor says as she smiles at Liliana.
"Thank you, doctor," Jonathan replies as the doctor heads toward the door.
"That is what I am here for, Mr. Hart. Liliana was lucky you were by her side when she was shot," the physician says, shutting the door on her way out.
"I'll say," Liliana replies, looking up at Jonathan and Jennifer with a smile.
Shortly after Lieutenant Kelekolio stands in a hospital room with two police officers by his side as he takes down Liliana's statement.
"I do not know the name of the man. He just gave me that telephone number. I did overhear him talking to a woman on a telephone on the yacht. They used to work together at a travel agency, Pandora, here in Honolulu and were close acquaintances with the owner of the Hilton Hawaiian Village. It was the owner who thought of the scam. He wanted to avoid going to jail for income tax evasion."
"Did you overhear him mention the name of the owner?"
"No, lieutenant, I did not. What charges am I facing?"
"That's up to the district attorney, young lady. I am going to have to arrest you as soon as the doctor says you are well enough to leave. Considering you were used as a pawn, you had no knowledge you were accessory to a crime, and this is your first offense, I'm sure the judge will give you a fair shake."
"Lieutenant Kelekolio, Jennifer and I would like to give Liliana a chance to redeem herself. As you know, she comes from a poor family and was only trying to earn extra money to help with expenses. We would appreciate it if the judge gave her probation. I'm sure I can find a job for her at Hart Industries. My company can provide her with reasonable hours and a better-paying salary," Jonathan replies.
"Are you taking up social work, Mr. Hart?" the lieutenant asks, turning to Jonathan with a smile.
"It's just I think Liliana has been through enough hardships without having to face time in prison. Besides, it's those two former employees from the travel agency and the owner of the Hilton Hawaiian Village that really need to be put away."
"And I think the last thing Liliana's family needs to face right now is the possibility of her going to jail," Jennifer says. "I'm sure once Max knows the whole story he'll the feel the same."
"I admit I agree with you, Mrs. Hart. Hopefully, if the district attorney doesn't take heart on Liliana, the judge will."
"If he doesn't, I will see about getting a lawyer for Liliana," Jonathan replies.
"Jonathan and I will do all we can to see to it that you get off with probation," Jennifer says, gently as she places a comforting hand on the young woman's other shoulder. She gives the young native a smile which Liliana returns.
Hours later that afternoon, Jonathan and Jennifer are walking toward the Ala Wai Boat Harbor across from their hotel wearing new and dry clothing. Jennifer has dried her hair and redid her makeup. They approach a harbormaster.
"Good afternoon," Jonathan says with a smile as he has Jennifer on his arm.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Hart. Want to rent another boat?" he asks.
"No, thanks, I think we had enough sailing for one day," Jennifer replies with a smile. "We just want some information."
"Yes, it's about a yacht. Some people may have done some sailing of their own yesterday afternoon," Jonathan explains. "What was the name of the yacht, darling?" he asks, turning to his wife. "You said it was the name of a Hawaii flower."
"Yes, Frangipani. Jonathan and I saw it this afternoon. There were two people on board. A man and a woman. Unfortunately, we didn't get a good look at them from where we were standing."
"Did you say the name of the boat was Frangipani?" the harbormaster asks.
"Yes."
"I do recall seeing a yacht with that name sailing yesterday afternoon. I saw it leave just as I returned from lunch. I'm afraid I didn't get a look at the man or the woman, Mr. and Mrs. Hart. Some odd things struck me about that boat."
"What was that?" Jonathan asks.
"First thing is that I had never seen that yacht sail from this harbor before. I've been harbormaster at Ala Wai Boat Harbor for many years, and I know every boat that is dock here. I also noticed there was no captain on board the ship."
"What is so strange about there not being a captain on board?" Jennifer asks.
"From what I could tell from standing where we are now that they were not on the yacht just to go sailing. The passengers were quiet. They never laughed or even sounded like they were having a good time. I only heard the sound of the engine. To answer your question, if you were going to sail on an expensive yacht with a lovely companion, wouldn't you rather have a captain at the wheel than be behind the helm yourself?"
Jennifer smiles. "That would depend on who my companion was," she replies as she looks over at Jonathan.
"Thank you very much," Jonathan says. "If you learn who those two passengers were I would appreciate you calling our suite."
"I can guarantee I will," the older man replies, shaking Jonathan's hand.
Jonathan and Jennifer turn around as they head back in the direction of the Ilikai hotel.
"Another dead end," Jennifer says.
"Yes, but we still have that travel agency we can check out."
"Jonathan, I have a feeling that the owner of the Hilton Hawaiian Village is taking refuge on that yacht."
"If people were led to believe he fled the country, the last place the authorities would think to look would be a yacht. I get the same feeling myself."
Twelve minutes later, Jonathan and Jennifer are driving to Panda Travel in the Mercedes. Jonathan turns right onto Kaphahula Avenue. They arrive at their destination. Jonathan pulls the car up to the curb before bringing it to a stop. The Harts open their doors and get out of the vehicle. They approach the door where they see a sign that says, "8:00 AM-5:30 PM."
Jonathan holds the door open for his wife. Jennifer walks in, and Jonathan shuts the door behind them.
A young Hawaiian native is waiting on a couple who are looking over brochures.
"I'll be with you in a moment," she says, turning to Jonathan and Jennifer.
Jonathan and Jennifer walk around casually, acting as if they are interested in booking a trip. A moment later the couple starts to leave when the travel agent walks over to the Harts. They are looking over brochures on the Bahamas.
"Aloha! Do you have any questions?" the agent asks with a cheerful smile.
"Yes, my wife and I are interested in a trip to the Bahamas," Jonathan replies with a smile as he and Jennifer turn around to face her. "Are you new here?"
"I beg your pardon?" the woman asks, caught off guard by the question.
"My husband and I were once waited on by a charming man and woman. We want their advice on about the best trip available to the Bahamas."
"I'm sorry, but it is almost closing time. I'm the only agent left for the day. I'm sure I can recommend a package deal you'll be satisfied with. How do you want to travel to the Bahamas? A cruise would be very nice."
"I'm sorry, but you won't do," Jonathan replies in a stuck up manner. "My wife and I will just come back another time. Come along, darling," he says, turning to Jennifer as he takes her hand.
"Wait a minute. Perhaps I can get the agents you want to handle business with to come over to help you book your trip," the agent says, worried about losing a customer.
"Now that is more the attitude we expected," Jennifer replies in a matter of fact manner. "We want the very best."
"Yes, my wife and I are very particular about whom we do business with. If necessary we will go over to their place of residence if that will be more convenient."
"I'm sure that can be arranged. What is your name?"
"Hart. Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Hart. H, a, r,t," Jonathan replies, spelling out their last name. "Now, what is the address? My wife and I have an engagement at the yacht club. We can't be late," he says, glancing at his wristwatch.
"And I have an appointment at the beauty parlor," Jennifer says, taking a mirror out of her purse to look over her hair. "Oh, dear! I do need a perm! I can't go looking like this!" she exclaims with a look of shock on her face. "Oh, the tortures of having to look one's best!" Jennifer exclaims with a sigh as she places the mirror back in her purse.
"I understand, Mr. and Mrs. Hart. What is the name of the man and woman?"
"My wife and I are not good at remembering names!" Jonathan exclaims. "Don't you have a record of all the employees or do I need to buy this travel agency? I do say, it could do with better customer service."
"Yes, and I thought the better business bureau well approved the Pandora. Pandora appears to be well over-rated, don't you think?" Jennifer asks, turning to Jonathan.
"Yes, you are right as always. Now if you'll find the names, my wife and I will be heading on our way," Jonathan replies, turning back to the agent.
"Yes, just give me a moment," the young travel agent says, walking over to a desk to pick up a record of all the employees' personal information. "What do they look like?" she asks, without looking up at Jonathan and Jennifer.
"Well, the lady was beautiful," Jonathan replies, walking over to her with Jennifer still on his arm. "I do believe my wife and I happened to see them the other day. Where was it, darling?"
"Oh, now, I remember they were on a yacht together, Frangipani. I do wish we had gotten their names!" Jennifer exclaims as she snaps her fingers in disappointment.
"It would be just our luck if they didn't work here anymore," Jonathan exclaims, shaking his head. "Oh, the pressures of being wealthy!" he adds with a sigh as Jennifer places a comforting hand on Jonathan's shoulder.
"I don't know how to tell you this, Mr. and Mrs. Hart, but we did have a gorgeous woman and a handsome man that quit working here a few weeks back. They said they were leaving Hawaii."
"What?!!!" Jonathan and Jennifer ask, pretending to be annoyed at hearing the news.
"That was very inconvenient of them!" Jennifer exclaims with a frown. "Oh, darling, what are we going to do? We have only a few weeks to plan our vacation to the Bahamas," she says as she paces around the room. "Their departure is such dismaying news!"
"Yes, well, I suppose we will have to find ourselves another travel agency since this place doesn't live up to our standards," Jonathan replies in a comforting tone.
Jonathan places his arms around Jennifer's shoulders as she stops pacing.
"I'm sorry you are disappointed in our service, but I can give you their names, Sylvia Jackson and Sylvester Judson."
"Oh, how silly of us!" Jennifer exclaims, hitting her head with her hand. "How could we forget their names?! Sylvia Jackson and Sylvester Judson. Their names sound aristocratic ."
"Yes, aristocratic as in Hart," Jonathan replies with a sly smile.
"Good one, darling," Jennifer says with a smile, kissing her husband on the cheek. "Let's go. I don't want to be late for my perm," she says as she takes Jonathan's hand.
"Yes, we must look our best for tonight," Jonathan replies as he and Jennifer walk to the front door.
"Wait a minute," the young Hawaiian travel agent says as she shuts the record book. "Don't you want to know the name of another travel agency?" she asks, turning to the Harts.
"Most certainly not! We will ask the concierge!" Jennifer exclaims, holding her head up as Jonathan holds the door open for her.
They walk over to the rental car. Jonathan holds the door open for his wife. After Jennifer gets in, Jonathan walks over to his side of the vehicle.
"Darling, why couldn't we have asked for the names instead of giving the impression we are snobs?" Jennifer asks, turning to face her husband.
"I was afraid if we did that then the agent might get the impression the agency itself is under investigation. Any knowledge that past employees are suspects in a scam isn't precisely the kind of news the other employees would respond well to," Jonathan replies, turning to face his wife.
Jonathan is about to start the engine. Jennifer, glancing over, notices a piece of paper on the sidewalk next to their car. Jennifer opens her door. She reaches down and picks up the crumpled piece of paper.
"What is it?" Jonathan asks as Jennifer shuts the passenger door.
"This piece of paper has a message written in code," Jennifer explains as she glances over the paper, trying to figure out the secret code.
yɘlloɿƚ yd lɘvɒɿƚ bnɒ bɒɘH bnomɒiᗡ ƚɒ woɿɿomoƚ ǫniƚɘɘM are the words Jennifer is trying to decipher.
Jennifer holds the paper up to the rearview mirror.
"It is just as I expected," Jennifer says as she continues looking at the code in the mirror. "It's a transposition cipher."
"A transposition cipher? Would you mind translating in English?" Jonathan asks as he starts the engine.
"A transposition cipher has been used over the years by many talented people including da Vinci," Jennifer explains as Jonathan starts driving away. "They would write out messages as they would look reflecting in a mirror."
"Oh. What does this message mean?" Jonathan asks as Jennifer holds the piece of paper in her hand.
"The message means meeting at Diamond Head tomorrow and travel by trolley," Jennifer replies, turning to look at Jonathan. "Jonathan, the owner of the Hilton Hawaiian Hotel Village, must be hiding somewhere near the island."
"Then Sylvia and Slyvester would be meeting him secretly."
"And if he is hiding out on the Frangipani then this meeting must be his farewell appearance in public before leaving Hawaii ."
Jonathan and Jennifer exchange glances.
Ilikai Hotel And Resort
Max is lounging at the pool on a chair at the hotel. He has a hat on and sunglasses as he watches all the beautiful women in the pool and relaxing nearby as they enjoy the sun. A waitress comes up to him with a cocktail in a glass.
"Here's your cocktail, sir," she tells him with a smile.
"Thank you," Max replies with a smile as he takes his glass. "You've been working here long?" he asks.
Just then Jonathan and Jennifer walk into the pool area. They look to find Max, who is sitting in a shady place by the pool.
"It certainly didn't take Max too long to get over the scam," Jennifer comments as she and Jonathan watch Max flirt with the waitress.
"He is in a tropical paradise, darling," Jonathan replies as he and his wife walk over to Max.
The waitress has just moved the umbrella over Max so he won't be affected by the sun. She walks away as the Harts walk over to him.
"Hey, Mr. and Mrs. H!" Max exclaims with a smile. "Want to go in for a dip?"
"Not at the moment, Max. We know who is behind the scam," Jonathan tells him.
"And we know they are meeting up tomorrow at Diamond Head by trolley," Jennifer adds.
"Who are the sleazeballs?"
"Sylvia Jackson and Slyvester Judson from Pandora Travel Agency. They quit and left no forwarding address," Jonathan says.
"We think the owner of the Hilton is still near the island. He is probably hiding out on the Frangipani."
"What's a Frangipani?"
"It's the name of a flower here in Hawaii, but the Frangipani Mr. H and I are referring to is a yacht where Slyvester took a shot at Liliana.”
"Where does the telephone numbers come into this?" Max asks, taking a sip of his cocktail.
Jennifer stops to think before an idea comes to mind. "Of course!" Jennifer exclaims as she snaps her fingers. "The telephone book."
"What?" Jonathan asks, turning to his wife.
"I just thought of something," Jennifer replies. "Excuse me, is there a telephone book in the lobby?" she asks, turning to a waiter who is passing by.
"Yes, madam. There is one right by the telephones. Would you like me to bring it to you?" he asks.
"Yes, if you wouldn't mind, I would appreciate that," Jennifer says with a smile.
"I'll be right back," the waiter replies as he starts to head away from the pool back into the hotel.
"What are you thinking, darling?" Jonathan asks as he helps his wife into a chair.
Jonathan and Jennifer take a seat at a table next to Max.
"I think we overlooked a clue that should have been obvious all along," Jennifer replies.
"What clue could you find in a telephone book, Mrs. H?" Max asks, taking another sip of his drink.
"What you would expect to find in a telephone directory. A telephone number," Jennifer replies just as the waiter returns with the telephone book. "Thank you," she says as he returns with the book. She begins to thumb through the pages, taking her time as Jonathan and Max exchange glances. They are wondering what Jennifer is thinking. She stops as she comes to a telephone number, which is 808-365-0483. "How clever!" she exclaims impressed.
She reaches into her purse and takes out the telephone number that Liliana dropped in the trashcan. She looks over the 808-369-0827 number. "Darling, what was the number you dialed that was on the card?" she asks, looking up at Jonathan.
"808-345-9205."
"I got it. The telephone digits are copies of the population of the well- known islands. The population for Hawaii is 92,053," Jennifer says. "The population for Honolulu is 365,048 which is the exact telephone number I found in this book," she explains, handing the book to her husband.
Jonathan and Max look over the telephone number as Jennifer continues explaining.
"So Sylvia and Slyvester created these two phony numbers using digits from the popular islands," Jonathan concludes.
"Why not just use numbers made up?" Max asks. "Everyone knows the population of the islands."
"Not if you are a tourist, Max," Jennifer replies. "It's an easy way to remember the numbers if you are well acquainted with the islands."
"The only thing I can't understand is why the number in the book has the same digits as the population of Honolulu," Jonathan says, handing the book back to his wife. "Unless it's the number to Frangipani."
"There's only one way to find out," Jennifer says, rising to her feet. "I'm going to call the number in the lobby."
"I'm coming with you, darling," Jonathan replies as he rises to his feet.
He takes Jennifer by the hand. Jonathan and Jennifer, walking hand in hand, approach the lobby. They head over to where the telephones are located. Jennifer walks over to a phone and dials the number. Soon after ringing a few moments, her call is answered on the other end of the line.
"Aloha, is this Miss Sylvia Jackson I am speaking with?" Jennifer asks in a Polynesian accent.
"Who wants to know?" a woman asks on the other end of the line.
"I'm with Avon. We are having a sale for fifty percent off on all our products for the rest of the week. You can save money on all of our merchandise, including lipstick, mascara, blush. Can I interest you?"
"No. Don't call this number again!" the woman replies as sounds of the ocean and voices talking can be heard in the background.
"Very well. It was a pleasure speaking to you. Aloha!" Jennifer exclaims before she hangs up the telephone receiver.
"Avon?!" Jonathan asks with a smile. "Such originality!"
Jennifer smiles before she smacks her husband playfully on the shoulder with her purse. "It was a woman's voice who answered. I heard the sounds of the ocean and what sounded like two men talking in the background," she tells her husband. "Think it is time to call Lieutenant Kelekolio?"
"Yes, I think it is time he contacts the coastguard to keep a lookout for Frangipani. Then you and I are going to take a trip to Diamond Head tomorrow ourselves," Jonathan replies.
Ilikai Hotel And Resort
Max is sitting out on the balcony overlooking the view the following morning when a knock comes at the door. Max rises to his feet and walks over to the door.
"Who is it?" Max asks with a hand on the doorknob.
"Housekeeping," a female voice replies.
Max opens the door to find Sylvia and Sylvester standing outside in the corridor. The woman holds a gun in her hand, which is aimed at Max. A look of worry comes over Max's face as he looks at the two people, wondering what is going to happen to him.
"Come on. Let's go, Max!" Sylvester orders, grabbing hold of Max's arm. He forces him in front of them as his lady friend continues to hold Max at gunpoint.
Jonathan and Jennifer are in the lobby, waiting for an elevator. An elevator behind them is opening with Max and his two captors getting off. Max looking at the Harts, continues to head out of the hotel. The woman now holds the gun at Max's back from inside her purse. An elevator opens. Jonathan and Jennifer get on. Just as Jonathan is about to press a button to their floor number, Jennifer notices Max and the two people with him. She can only see the back of their heads.
"Jonathan, that is Max," Jennifer says, turning to her husband with worry.
Jonathan presses hold the door button. They rush off of the elevator and hurry after Max. By now the man and woman are walking toward the end of the street. Jonathan and Jennifer are rushing into the Mercedes. Jennifer shuts her door as Jonathan attempts to start the engine. After several attempts, the engine won't start. Jonathan opens his door and gets out. He walks over to the front of the car and opens the hood. Jennifer walks out of the vehicle and approaches her husband.
"They tampered with the spark plugs," Jonathan says, turning to Jennifer.
Jennifer looks around and notices a young man driving a pedicab across from them.
"Jonathan, there's a pedicab," Jennifer replies, pointing the cab out to Jonathan.
Jonathan shuts the hood, and they rush over to the pedicab. The young man has just gotten out of the cab. Jonathan and Jennifer quickly get on the pedicab. Jonathan is driving while Jennifer is sitting in the back. Jonathan takes off fast to save Max.
Meanwhile, Max is walking the streets with the two captors. His back is to them as they stand walking carefully behind him to make sure he isn't going to attempt to make a run for it.
Jonathan is pedaling the pedicab as fast as possible. He is finding himself forcing citizens and tourists to get out of the way. He is forced to bring the cab to a stop as they reach a traffic light. After what seems like minutes, the light turns green. Jonathan starts pedaling again, causing vehicles to slam on their brakes to avoid a crash. A tour bus appears in front of the pedicab. Jennifer looks on with fear as Jonathan swerves, preventing an accident.
Jonathan turns a corner and drives right through a busy street just as the pedestrians are about to cross. He finds cars backed up behind a traffic light when he turns right onto a road. Jonathan swerves the pedicab onto the sidewalk. People jump out of the way. Soon as he passes the traffic light, he drives the cab back onto the main street. A full trolley appears in front of him. Jonathan swerves again causing more commotion. Several mopeds driving in his direction Jonathan veers the pedicab out of the way.
Now a group of surfers, carrying a towel and a surfboard, are walking across the street. Jonathan sways around them. After turning right, Jonathan finds another traffic light up ahead of them. The light turns red just as the cab drives right through the light. A young teenager is crossing the street holding a radio up to his ear, which is blasting music. He reaches the sidewalk just as Jonathan passes him.
One young woman is pedaling a bicycle. She swerves as she notices Jonathan approaching her direction. An older man is standing on the side of the street waving to Jonathan as the pedicab is approaching him. He has an arm full of groceries.
"Can you give me a lift?" he asks.
"Our schedule is all filled up for today," Jennifer shouts out as they pass him.
A young boy is crossing the street playing Blue Hawaii on his ukulele as the Harts are approaching. He turns to see them. He panics and drops his instrument to the ground before running off. Jennifer bends down to pick up the ukulele.
"You forgot your ukulele!" Jennifer shouts out to the boy who is out of earshot. She turns to look at the instrument. "I always wanted to learn to play the ukulele," Jennifer says. “If only I could remember how the lyrics to Moonlight Swim go.”
Jonathan turns right. They arrive at a road where a group of people is waiting on a trolley to pick them up. Max and his captors are among them.
"Jonathan," Jennifer whispers, pointing to the side of the street.
Jonathan pulling the pedicab up to the side of the street out of sight, brings it to a stop. The trolley approaches the road and stops. Max and the people holding him against his will are the last to board. They sit in the very back. The trolley starts down the street.
"At least we know they are heading down to Diamond Head," Jonathan says, turning to face Jennifer.
After waiting a minute another trolley approaches which is filled up. Several people get off. Jonathan and Jennifer hurry over to get on. They walk to the very back where they can't be noticed. The trolley starts down the street.
Twelve minutes later, the first trolley makes a stop at Diamond Head. Most of the passengers get off to get a look at the scenery and take photographs. Sylvia and Sylvester turn to Max.
"Get up," Sylvester orders.
Max rises from his seat. Sylvia and Sylvester stand behind Max as they walk off of the trolley.
"This way," Sylvia says, pushing Max ahead of them. "Turn right and keep walking until we tell you to stop. Walk on ahead."
Max nods and heads right. Sylvia and Sylvester watch a few moments to make sure Max is not going to try to get away. They walk behind him as Sylvia continues keeping her gun pointed at Max. They walk past the monument. Max stops walking as he notices he reached a street.
"Keep on walking and turn right. We'll head through that tunnel on up ahead."
"Are you out of your mind?" Max asks, turning around to face them. "This is a street. We'll be run down."
"This isn't the rush hour as you can see for yourself," Sylvester replies. "Just shut up and continue walking."
"Relax, Max. You're at Diamond Head here in Honolulu, Hawaii. Think of it as a sightseeing experience," Sylvia says with a sly smile.
"If I wanted to go to Diamond Head for sightseein' I would have taken the trolley without being held at gunpoint," Max replies with disgust.
He walks on ahead with his two captors behind him. They walk through a tunnel which leads to Kahala Lookout.
Meanwhile, Jonathan and Jennifer are still riding in the second trolley, which is approaching Diamond Head. The trolley comes to a stop.
The passengers, who stepped off the other trolley, is getting back on with the driver. The trolley the Harts are riding comes to a halt as the first trolley drives past them. Jonathan and Jennifer are looking over the passengers. They see no sign of Max and exchange glances.
All of the other passengers are stepping off. Jonathan and Jennifer rise to their feet and step off. They look around, but they still do not see Max anywhere.
"Darling, they could have taken Max anywhere. Where do we begin?" Jennifer asks, turning to face Jonathan, who is staring at the tunnel.
"My instinct tells me the tunnel," Jonathan replies as Jennifer turns to look at the tunnel.
They rush toward the tunnel after Max.
Max, Sylvester, and Sylvia are reaching the end of the tunnel. They continue walking until they reach the back of the parking lot at the lookout.
"All right. You can stop," Sylvia says, noticing a man whose back is turned towards them.
Max stops just as the man turns around. It is the owner of the Hilton Hawaiian Village standing in front of them. The man, shocked to see Max, turns to him before looking at his two accomplices.
"What is he doing here?" Manuela demands to know as they walk up to him with a passport. "Why did you resort to kidnapping?!"
"He is our ticket out of the country," Sylvester replies, handing him the passport.
"We can't kidnap Max! That will be committing another felony!"
"Jonathan Hart already knows you were the brains behind the scam," Sylvia says. "As you said Jonathan Hart is a wealthy man. He would be willing to pay the ransom so we can get out of the United States without having trouble with the law."
"I never planned to leave the country with you two. You're on your own now on,” Manuela replies much to the horror and rage of his accomplices. "I'm leaving Honolulu by myself. Let Max go!" he orders.
"You take us with you, or we'll turn you in!" Sylvia orders firmly staring at Manuela straight in the face.
"If you want to leave Hawaii, no one is stopping you. You just figure out how you are going to go about accomplishing that. Now, we only met up at Diamond Head so I could get my passport and exchange goodbyes. The kidnapping was not in the plan. Let Max go now!” Manuela orders with a glare.
"No. You take us with you, or we go down together! Which is it going to be?" the woman asks, crossing her arms.
"My way," Manuela replies, pulling out a gun from his pocket. "You stay away from me. Take Max back to the hotel now! If you don't the Honolulu Police are going to get an anonymous tip about the kidnapping!"
Max happens to turn and notice Jonathan and Jennifer standing by the tunnel out of sight. Jonathan signals to him not to let on they have come to his rescue. Sylvester has now joined in the arguing. Jonathan and Jennifer sneak up to Sylvia and Sylvester quietly. Jonathan jumping on Sylvia, knocks them to the ground. Jennifer jumping on Sylvester knocks them down. Manuela is in a state of panic and drops the gun. He makes a run for it.
Jonathan and Jennifer start throwing punches. Jonathan is using his fist to fight off Sylvester while Jennifer is exchanging blows with Sylvia. The Harts succeed in knocking the couple to the pavement. Jonathan picks up the gun and hands it to Max.
"Keep an eye on them, Max," Jonathan says as Max forces Sylvester and Sylvia to their feet.
"It'll be a pleasure, Mr. H," Max replies with a smile as he points the weapon at them. He is delighted he is seeking vengeance on two of the people who pulled the scam on him.
Jonathan and Jennifer hurry after Manuela. The man is rushing toward the crater looking over Diamond Head. Once he reaches the crater, Manuela attempts to climb up. Jonathan turns to his wife as they approach the crater.
"Try to see if you can locate a phone to call Lieutenant Kelekolio."
"Watch your step," Jennifer replies as she turns around.
Jonathan returns his attention to the crater and begins to climb up carefully.
Manuela is somehow managing to climb up the crater, but is struggling along the way. He has to stop and hold on tight to prevent himself from falling. The man carefully turns his head to see Jonathan rushing after him. Manuela continues his climb with Jonathan behind him. He is breathing heavily.
The man reaches where there is a lookout point. He sighs in relief as he hurries down a trail. Jonathan is getting up to the top of the crater as Max watches nervously. He steps onto the lookout point and hurries down the path. Jonathan is breathing heavily himself.
Manuela is halfway across the trail. He turns right and continues running down the trail. Jonathan keeps running, turning down the same direction. The trail Manuela is taking leads down to the other side of the tunnel. He runs faster, not stopping a moment. Jonathan runs faster too. Manuela reaching the bottom, continues running.
Jonathan reaching the bottom continues chasing after the man. They are now back near the Diamond Head State Monument. The chase continues as Manuela is running toward the famous Diamond Head itself. Just then a car is approaching. Manuela is paying no attention in a desperate attempt to get away.
"Look out!" Jonathan yells to him in a warning.
The man turns to see the vehicle as it is coming toward him. The driver sees him and slams on his brakes. Manuela brushes past the car as he continues to run. The car drives past as Jonathan catches up.
Jonathan continues to hurry after Manuela. The owner is now reaching the parking lot with Jonathan close behind. Just as they rush toward Diamond Head, a team of police cars is approaching with their sirens on. They come to a stop, and Jennifer gets out of a vehicle from the backseat. She joins her husband in the chase.
Jonathan, Manuela, and Jennifer soon are running down the stairs shortly after. Some tourists are standing around taking photographs and enjoying the view of one of the popular attractions in Hawaii. Manuela runs faster. The Harts do the same. Tourist stops and watches with curiosity as they observe the chase.
Jonathan rushes up to the man and knocks them both down to the ground. They now engage in a fistfight. The men find themselves moving towards a railing as their fight carries on. Manuela grabbing hold of Jonathan's face forces it against the railing. He attempts to push Jonathan over the side and send him falling to his death. Jonathan manages to remain strong as he overpowers him. They move to another railing where they continue trying to win the upper hand.
Jennifer watches as Jonathan throws a heavy blow to Manuela. The impact sends him falling to the ground in front of the stairs.
"You know, you really shouldn't have picked Diamond Head as a place to make a run for it," Jonathan tells him as Jennifer rushes up to his side. "One false move, you're good as dead," he says as the lieutenant and several police officers approach Manuela.
The lieutenant forces the man to his feet and handcuffs him.
"Book him, Danno!" Jonathan exclaims turning to the officers as they take Manuela away. "Darling, how do you feel about exploring Diamond Head ourselves now that we are alone?" he asks, turning to his wife as he puts his arm around her shoulder.
"I have seen enough diamonds for one day, darling," Jennifer replies with a wink.
Hart House One Afternoon
The telephone on the desk in the living room is ringing. Jonathan walks into the room through the foyer.
“I’ll get it, darling,” Jonathan shouts out to his wife.
He walks over to the telephone and picks up the receiver. “Jonathan Hart,” Jonathan answers. “What’s the news?” he asks as he listens to the person on the other end of the line.
Jennifer walks in through the kitchen door. She walks over as her husband continues listening to the caller.
“Really?” Jonathan asks with a smile. “Thank you for letting me know the good news,” he says before hanging up the receiver.
“What’s the good news, darling?” Jennifer asks, anxious to hear what it is.
“That was my friend who works for the FBI,” Jonathan replies. “The internal revenue service never cashed my check.”
“As they say never look a gift horse in the mouth,” Jennifer says with a chuckle.
“That’s the first time I thought I’d be grateful for the IRS,” Jonathan remarks.
“Soon as we give Max his cake and gifts let’s celebrate,” Jennifer says, placing her arms around Jonathan’s waist.
Jonathan smiles and kisses Jennifer on the lips.
Meanwhile, Max is by the pool outside the house, lying back content. Liliana is giving him a massage as he has his eyes shut. The woman is rubbing Max's shoulders.
"How does that feel?" she asks.
"Just fine," Max replies with a sigh.
Just then Jonathan and Jennifer walk onto the patio. Jennifer is carrying Max's birthday cake while Jonathan is carrying wrapped packages. He places them on the other side of the table while Jennifer lights the candles on the cake. They walk down to the pool area and start singing.
"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday, Max. You're one in a million! Happy birthday to you!"
"Well, thank you, Mr. and Mrs. H," Max replies with a smile in surprise.
"Come up to the patio, Max. We got some cake and presents for you," Jennifer tells him with a smile.
Max smiling rises from his seat. Liliana follows Max and the Harts to the patio. Max stares at the cake and gifts deeply touched.
"Blow out the candles," Jonathan tells him as he and Jennifer stand behind the table. "Make a wish."
Max closes his eyes and quietly thinks what he wishes for before blowing out the candles. The Harts and Liliana applaud.
"Before you open the gifts we want to give you this," Jonathan says, taking out a brochure and an airline ticket. He hands them to Max.
Max looks them over. The catalog is on the Bahamas, and the ticket is to the Bahamas.
"Geez!" Max exclaims. "I don't know what to say. I can't accept 'em tickets."
"Why not? Max, the tickets are our birthday present to you," Jennifer says.
"And the Honolulu trip was a scam," Jonathan adds.
"I know, but if I had read the fine print, I wouldn't have gotten us all into such a mess."
"We all make choices we wish we hadn't. You deserve a chance to enjoy yourself," Jennifer says. "All expenses are on Jonathan and me."
"I guess you'll have to forget all the attractive young women sunbathing by the beach and tropical weather," Jonathan replies, teasingly with a sigh.
"And miss the fun of trying your luck in the casino," Jennifer adds with a sigh. She is going along with her husband's teasing.
"All right. You just twisted my arm," Max says with a devious smile as the Harts laugh.
"Come on. We got one more surprise, but first, you have to close your eyes," Jonathan replies. "The surprise is out front."
Max closes his eyes. Liliana leads him away by the arm as she follows Jonathan and Jennifer to the front entrance. The sports car Max entered to win is standing in the front of the house.
"You can open your eyes now," Jennifer says as Jonathan places the car key into Max's hand.
Max opens his eyes. He is stunned to see his dream car standing in front of his very eyes. Max turns to face Jonathan and Jennifer, who are looking at him
with a smile.
"Geez! I can't believe my eyes!" Max exclaims. "You and Mrs. H got me my dream car!" he exclaims, feeling a tear come into his eyes. Max walking over to Jonathan and Jennifer places his arms around their shoulders. The Harts hug him. "Thank you!"
"You're welcome, Max," Jennifer replies as Max pulls away from them. "Happy birthday!"
"Can I take it out for a spin?"
"Sure, go ahead, Max," Jonathan replies, gesturing toward the car. "Take the rest of the day off. Jennifer and I can take care of ourselves."
Max smiles as Liliana walks over to the passenger door. He opens the door, and she gets in. Max walks over to his side of the vehicle and gets in. He starts the engine and takes off from the house.
Jonathan and Jennifer smiling wrap their arms around each other's shoulder as they watch the car speed away.
"I'm glad Max finally got his birthday wish, darling," Jennifer says, turning to her husband.
Jonathan and Jennifer walk back to the patio. They approach the table. Jennifer starts to pick up the cake as Jonathan looks at her reflecting.
"Speaking of wishes now that we are alone I have a dream of my own," he says, turning to Jennifer with a smile as he takes her hand. "I wish we could enjoy ourselves in a tropical paradise."
Jennifer looks up at her husband with a smile. "Wait here. I'll be right back," she replies with a wink.
Jonathan looks at Jennifer, wondering what his wife has in mind. She hurries into the kitchen and returns moments later with a Lei in her hand.
"Well, we'll always have Hawaii, darling," Jennifer says, placing the Lei around her husband's neck. "Aloha!" she seductively exclaims, kissing Jonathan on the lips.
Jonathan smiles as he takes Jennifer in his arms. He kisses her on the lips.
Write a comment
Dinah Senna (Sunday, 15 September 2019 13:27)
Excellent chapter, thank you so much for your wonderful writing.Continue to give us many joys reading your stories.
amelia (Tuesday, 17 September 2019 05:03)
Amazing story, more please
Karen Wilson (Wednesday, 18 September 2019 14:52)
Thanks it was a great story can’t wait until the next one
Karen (Tuesday, 22 October 2019 12:51)
Another FANTASTIC episode!! Loved the setting in beautiful Hawaii and all the pics that showed the scenery. Great suspense-filled chase scenes especially ending scene. Good ending w Lilliana being taken care of, Jonathan’s money safe, and Max got his dream car after all! Super job!! Keep up good work!!!
naraida Tamisen (Friday, 05 March 2021 19:58)
Costa Mesa is not located in the LA metropolitan area but in Orange County.