Sydney knew leaving the hospital in her weakened state was a mistake, she could barely walk straight, but she had no other choice. Nigel's life was at stake and she would do anything including giving up her own to save his. She still could not believe her luck, Derek Lloyd had almost appeared out of nowhere, offering his services, she knew it was for his own selfish reasons, but she didn't care, she would take any help she could get.
Derek sat quietly as the plane took off remembering his last encounter with Sydney and the dance they had shared in her office. She completely intrigued him, her sensuality, stubbornness and single-mindedness in the pursuit of a goal which unfortunately this time was not a relic, but a life....Nigel's life. He had to admit to himself that he liked the kid and hoped he was okay, but knowing the Viper as he did, he didn't truly believe that for one moment.
He debated, if he should tell Sydney what he knew about Nigel, but looking at her now, the deep worry and pain that showed in her eyes he knew it would help ease her guilt somewhat.
"I think the Viper was after Nigel all along and it had nothing to do with Ichriem."
"What?" Sydney said startled out of her thoughts.
"How much do you know about Nigel's family?" he said as he looked out the window of the plane before facing her.
She looked at him, not sure were he was going with this. "Not much, I've met his brother Preston, he seems nice enough, but he has never really spoke much about his parents."
"That's understandable." he paused "Has Nigel ever talked to you about his family's holdings, his inheritance?"
"No he hasn't."
She looked at him a million thoughts going through he mind. She had seen his family's home the last time they had been in London, it was a very impressive and beautiful manor, but she had never really thought about it until now. Nigel's family had to have been extremely well off to have a home like that and she remembered the new Jaguar that Preston drove as she contemplated Derek's words.
"I'll cut straight to the chase than. When Nigel's parents died their estate was worth around eight million dollars. The will split the estate equally between their sons." He saw the comprehension in Sydney's eyes. "The money had been put into trusts for each one until they reached their thirtieth birthday. The money was invested wisely and when Nigel claims his part of the inheritance his estimated worth will be around twelve million dollars."
End of Part Thirteen
Go to Part Fourteen.