| “Exposure to Civilization” A short story based on the WB Series, “Tarzan” By Kythera *** This story contains characters created by Edgar Rice Burroughs and is creation of Warner Brothers and the property of the Edgar Rice Burroughs Trust. I have created it strictly for my personnel amusement and the amusement of others on www.travisfimmelforum.com Summary: Continues the story started in EXPOSURE. Now Jane and Tarzan journey back to Los Angeles so Tarzan can claim his birthright and win Jane by becoming civilized ***
Nikki wanted everything to go smoothly today for Jane. She was so proud of her sister and wanted her to have a flawless time. She took Jane to have her hair and nails done at Umberto’s. Then she drove her to Hazel’s so she could put on her evening gown. She helped her write a brief speech which she would have to make as winner of a journalism scholarship and give credit to the college. Nikki herself took care of her own grooming as well and selected a dress from Hazel’s collection that emphasized her slim body but allowed her to move freely. She chose a red satin dress that had a halter neckline and a flowing bias-cut skirt. If she had to run, she could to it in that gown. She had to carry her gun in her evening purse. Jane’s gown was a lovely confection of lightly beaded chiffon in an ice blue shimmering fabric that set off her golden hair and soft skin beautifully. It had an empire waistline reminiscent of the gown wore by Liza Dolittle (Audrey Hepburn) in “My Fair Lady”. Both sisters were knock-outs! Nancy was also wearing a lovely creation in pale yellow. Her long, dark hair spilled over, down the front. Her dress was strapless and allowed her to put her cameras – still and video -- over her shoulders. They were ready! The excitement was building. Nikki left on her own to get set up for her police detail; after all, she was working tonight. The others waited eagerly for their stretch limo to come for them. The doorbell rang. Jane opened the door. The chauffeur bowed and showed her to the vehicle. She entered and found that it was already occupied. “Hello, Jane. I’m your escort for the evening.” Said a familiar male voice. Jane froze!
“Hey, Tarzan. Let’s get ready to watch the pre-Oscar show.” Called out Paul from the home theater room. “All of the celebrities are shown as they are arriving. They take photos of them as they come out of their limos and have them parade up the red carpet. Jane will be featured too. I’ll get us some finger food so we can watch in comfort.” Tarzan entered the room. “Jane gave us “assignment” because she didn’t want me to go with her. She thinks I will shame her.” Said Tarzan sadly. “This is HER night, Tarzan. She has a special honor. They have arranged everything for tonight. It has nothing to do with you. Come, let’s get comfortable. It’s going to be a long evening.”
‘What have I done wrong? Why is she afraid that I will shame her? I am learning how to act in public correctly.’ He was still in his gloomy thoughts when the phone rang. The butler answered it and then came into the room. “A person called asking for Mr. Tarzan. I’ll bring you the phone.” An unfamiliar male voice spoke, telling Tarzan that he’d better get to the Oscars because Jane needed him; she was in grave danger. Then he hung up. “What was that all about?” asked Paul, seeing Tarzan reacting in an agitated way. “I must go!” Tarzan announced firmly. “Go? Where” “To the Oscars. Jane needs me.” And he started for the window. “Wait! Don’t leave yet! Shouted Paul. “She’s just arriving! See, her limo has just pulled up and she’s getting out of it! Come see! She looks safe enough.” Tarzan stopped and returned to the TV screen. Both men looked at a glowing Jane step gracefully out of the limo. She looked radiant, smiling at the cameras, with paparazzi going crazy taking photos! She took the offered hand of her escort – Richard Clayton—without looking directly at him! Tarzan growled when he saw him. Paul was surprised too. “What is HE doing with Jane?” exploded Tarzan. “I don’t know but let’s listen the reporter might explain,” said Paul. An indeed there was an explanation. The journalism scholarship that Jane had been awarded was sponsored by Greystoke Industries so Richard was accompanying her to the gala event which was an added perk to that scholarship. “I must go to keep her safe,” said Tarzan as he prepared to go out the window and leap from the terrace. “Wait! I have better idea, Tarzan.” Said Paul.
It was an hour past the arrival time when a limo pulled up to the side entrance away from the red carpet and the waiting press. Four people stepped out – a glamorous woman somewhere in her thirties, a strikingly, tall handsome young man, another young man, and a lovely woman all of them in their early twenties. Kathleen Clayton was the first to speak. “My own reporters are covering this. I’ll call a press conference to introduce my nephew as heir to John Clayton’s estate and my escort for this evening. I’ll give them enough information about his background. But Tarzan, I don’t want you to speak too much Just smile and try to look at ease.” The not-speaking-too-much part was easy as Tarzan was not known to be a conversationalist! The other part was not as Tarzan was very uncomfortable in a tuxedo! He was also anxious to find Jane. “Paul,” said Kathleen in a low voice. “Try to keep him out of mischief if you can.” “I have special seats in the Kodak Theater so we can enter without causing a fuss.” Continued Kathleen. “OK. Are we ready? Oh, Hazel, I’ll be sure to mention that you are Jane’s dress designer so be prepared to take some questions. That might take some of the heat off Tarzan.” Kathleen led them in a small procession to the main press platform. She had already called ahead to have her own reporters ready to cover the story. She made a brief but gracious statement about her long, lost nephew, introduced him, and then introduced the fabulous dress designer. The press asked a few questions concerning Tarzan’s lifestyle in the jungle. He gave very brief answers to direct questions. They then turned their attention to Hazel Strong since evening gowns and couture were the main topic on their agenda tonight. Everything went very well. Kathleen then took her group and swept into her boxed seats. Most of the attendees were more interested in what was going on on stage and did not pay any attention to these late arrivals. Tarzan tried to scent Jane in the crowd and eventually saw that she was seated in the front center section with Richard and some others from the school. He also scented Nikki somewhere but couldn’t see her. He settled into his seat, uncomfortable with his apparel and shoes but glad he was there. He didn’t understand too much of what was happening on stage. He was only interested in Jane. During intermission, Jane left her seat to go to the press area. She had interviews to do. Nancy joined her so they could set up. “Jane, I know you’re having a blast in the audience but the press lounge is better.” Informed Nance. “You can relax and share tidbits of information – gossip! It’s great! They have so much food! And an open bar! It’s any wonder any of these reporters can file their story after eating and drinking as they are doing. And the night is young – there are all those post-Oscar parties to attend!” “I know. It’s wonderful. But Nanc, I could have dropped when I saw my escort was Richard Clayton! He’s been so nice to me. He again spoke of his vision for the future – how he was going to be more directly involved in philanthropic projects, how his life was changing so that he’d become like his dead brother. He hints strongly that I have inspired him to make these changes and wants me to be a bigger part in his life. He seems genuinely trying to change.” “You’re not seriously considering HIM?” asked a stunned Nancy. “He’s old enough to be your father—almost.” “No. I don’t want in him THAT way. He’s a mentor.” “You’re going to have a hard time convincing him of that! He wants you romantically – for a wife! You’d better cut him off right now or else you’ll find yourself in deep trouble.” ‘I know but I feel sorry for him,” she said then she noticed that she might be missing some of the celebrities and changed the subject. “Oh, let’s try to get the winners as they come to the dais, Nanc. They are starting to queue up.” Jane and Nancy got wonderful interviews of most of the winners and beamed them to the college. Jane herself was a celebrity too. Richard had arranged for a special ceremony where the journalism scholarship would be awarded to her. Dignitaries from the school came too. Jane gave her speech, thanking Greystoke Industries and Richard, paying tribute to her journalism teachers, and accepting the scholarship with pride. As the Q &A part of the press conference began, one reporter asked Richard a pointed question. “Mr. Clayton, We’ve learned you have a long, lost nephew. Is this rumor true and how will he affect Greystoke Industries?” “M-My n-nephew?” He stammered. “Yes. I mounted an expedition to find my brother and his family if they were alive. Another member of my party found my nephew after I left Africa and returned to the States. I have to yet meet him. It seems my sister Kathleen has been keeping him to herself. She always did go for the strong, handsome ones,” he said trying to make light of the question. Because of spotlights on the dais blinded him, Richard could not see a group of people who had just entered to the left of the room and headed for the dais but the press did! They swarmed around Kathleen and Tarzan trying to ask questions at the same time and take photos with their flash cameras. Tarzan gave a low growl at them and conveyed a “back off” stance which stunned them into compliance. They parted to make a path for the group as it approached the dais. Jane’s eyes lit up when she saw Tarzan coming towards her! How handsome he was in a tuxedo! He looked every part the heir to the Greystoke family. His graceful carriage, his noble posture, his proud baring, his authoritative walk--all reminded her of the demi-god of the forest she had fallen in love with. “Tarzan!” she exclaimed. “How handsome you look tonight.” She embraced him warmly and let him kiss her lightly on her lips. “You are not angry at me for coming?” he asked. “I can not do the assignment for you as you asked.” She laughed. “I’m not angry with you. You just surprised me! But I’m so glad you came!” The press noticed how Tarzan and Jane were looking at each other in a more than friendly way and smelled a romance. They took many pictures of the two love-birds, using a beauty-and-the-beast theme as their byline. Tarzan glowered at them and growled under his breath when they took too many flashes. He was ready to do a King Kong if he thought they were attacking Jane. He would have attacked too had it not been for Jane’s steady hand on his arm. She squeezed him whenever he seemed to be ready to attack and also with her foot stepped on his while she smiled at the press. She let him know that he was to behave himself and all was well. Being near her had a calming affect on him so he followed her lead. She was safe with him; and he, with her. That’s all that mattered to him. Finally, the press tired of this story as they knew it was evolving and left to cover their true main event – the post-Oscar parties! Jane and Tarzan turned to leave the dais to be confronted by Richard. Tarzan and Richard looked each other over, each sizing up the other as future adversaries. The silence was so loud that the others didn’t know what to expect. Richard was in shock. This young man in front of him was his brother John reborn! His features, his physique, his movements – all John. Tarzan, on the other hand, was trying to remember why his memories of this man were sad ones. Richard was thinking to himself. ‘Yes. Nephew. You are out of the jungle, out of your element. You are in civilization. Jane will see you as you really are -- a repulsive, crude, uncouth creature. I’ll make sure that you have many opportunities to show your wild side. She will reject you. She will turn to me for love. Civilization is MY turf. I’m a Clayton and a Clayton always gets what he wants.’ Tarzan in turn thought, ‘Jane is mine. You, uncle, will never have her.’ “Well, we meet at last,” said Richard breaking the uncomfortable silence. “You look so much like your father. Welcome to the Clayton family, John.” “My name is Tarzan,” replied Tarzan quietly. He instinctively did not trust this man. “Why do I remember your scent?” “My scent? I didn’t know I had one. I had good times with my little nephew who was called John. I loved him very much. But I had to make sure he knew who was boss.” Said Richard. “Boss?” questioned Tarzan. “Yes, a person in charge. John always wanted to do things on his own, in his own way. John never took well to authority. I had to impress upon him that I was in charge. It was sometimes uncomfortable for him. I had to punish him.” “You will never punish me!” claimed Tarzan. He was beginning to remember some of what had happened to him as a child. “Well, the past can bury itself. We are here now. We will start over.” Proclaimed Richard. Kathleen interrupted by telling her brother that they all had invitations to go to the Governor’s Ball and should move along to it. Nikki told Jane, “This is your only post-Oscar event, Cinderella. You’ve had enough excitement for one evening. “ “I’ll bring her home,” offered Richard. “No, Jane will come home with me,” announced Tarzan. He could have cared less for the protocol that called for Jane’s escort to bring her back. “That would be very nice, Tarzan, said Jane softly. “if you don’t mind, Mr. Clayton.” Richard was about to object but Kathleen answered for him, “Of course he doesn’t mind. You children need to spend some time together. We’ll proceed to the Ball now.” And turned, taking Richard by the arm, and she led the way to the Governor’s Ball. Jane and Tarzan spent the evening with together. He had been taught the rudiments of dancing. He loved this newly learned skill because it gave him an excuse to hold Jane very close to him. She loved how he led her across the dance floor. They made striking couple. Richard seethed in the background.
The young crowd – Jane, Tarzan, Paul, Nancy, Hazel, Cecil and William --used the limo to return to Paul’s so Tarzan could get out of the tux. He had accepted the discomfort as long as he could because he was wearing it for Jane. He would do anything to please her, even this. Now, he stripped off this clothing, went to his bedroom, and changed into a t-shirt and pants. The others got as comfortable as they could and started replaying their video tape of the interviews. They were very engrossed. Jane still had her evening gown on and looked like a princess. She was in the after-glow of the euphoria of the entire evening. Tarzan approached her and tenderly stroked her face. She looked at him through star-struck eyes. The entire evening had been perfect. Even Richard being her escort. She felt sorry for him. She didn’t love him. Yet she felt somehow she might help him achieve his goals without getting romantically involved. “Tarzan, you were so, so perfect this evening. You were so controlled, so “civilized”, and she smiled a radiant smile at him. “I once told you, Jane, I would do anything for you, become anyone you wanted me to become. I love you.” He replied simply and he reached down to kiss her but looked to see if she wanted him to do so. She did not hesitate, she pulled him to her. Their hot kisses aroused more desires. “Tarzan, we have to stop,” she whispered. “We are not alone.” Tarzan looked around. No one was really noticing them. He took her by the hand and guided out her of the media room, into the center hall, and started to lead her up the stairs. “Wait. Where are we going?” she asked with a little tremor in her voice. “To my room,” he said simply. She hesitated. “Oh! Uhmm! Well, I don’t think… I mean .. . This may not be the right time, We should wait.” She was stalling because she needed to think clearly. She was making a commitment with this man. He was not one to be played with. His own sense of honesty, directness without guile, demanded that she be truthful with him. “Why should we wait?” he asked. “Well, Tarzan, have you ever -- I mean – been with another female?” “No. You are the first human female and the only one for me. But I was in love with Teeka, a she-ape, when I was younger and just becoming a-a m-male. I took her for my mate.” He didn’t know the word for puberty but made his point. “A she-ape? What happened?” she asked apprehensively. ‘So my nearest rival was an ape! I don’t know about this.’ She thought. “She preferred another. They mated while I left her to hunt. When I saw them together, I realized I was very different – hairless with white skin. I left them alone and did not challenge the male ape. I realized that there was no one of my kind in the jungle. It made me sad at first. That is when I decided to find my own kind.” He spoke simply and without bitterness. ‘What a relief,’ she said to herself. “Well some good came from that experience. It brought you here.” She told him. “Come, Jane. I want to be close to you. You said we needed to go someplace else. I still will wait for you to be ready if you are not sure.” She understood what he was telling her and followed him up the stairs into his chambers. Chapter 13 – First Love Jane woke up the next morning, naked, in a strange bed and bedroom. ‘ Where am I? Oh yes, Tarzan’s rooms’. She looked around and saw her evening gown neatly draped over a chair and her underwear on the floor. She wiggled, smiled, and yawned. Last night had been …well … very different! He had been the gentlest of lovers. He fulfilled his promise to wait for her. He had sensed that she was not ready this night. They kissed passionately and touched lovingly each other. She rested her head on his broad chest. It did not take long for Jane to drift into a blissful sleep. She had fallen asleep in his arms! Tarzan felt warmed by her nearness and was satisfied. More intimacy would come. She loved him and that was enough for now. Her heart was singing. She had never felt this way about any man. How lucky she was! She turned to see that the other side of the bed was empty. She wondered where he had gone. As if in answer to her thoughts, in came Tarzan holding a tray full of fresh fruit and some juice. He had been “hunting” in the refrigerator for her breakfast. He flashed back a radiant smile at her when he noticed that she was awake and smiling at him. “Good morning. Did you sleep well?” He asked softly and sat next to her on the bed. “Good morning yourself. Yes. I had the best sleep ever. I see you’ve been busy. But I have to wash up before I can eat. Oh, I need something to wear too.” “You can use my clothes,” He offered teasingly. “I think they will be too big!” She giggled. “But if there’s nothing else around, I’ll have to make do. I can’t wear the evening gown. In fact, I have to return it to Hazel.” Jane wrapped herself in a sheet and entered the bathroom. Tarzan watched her as she crossed the room. “Now, don’t follow me or look. I want my privacy. I’m very touchy in the morning.” She warned. He nodded and stayed were he was. He liked to watch her enter a room. She seemed to fill it with light. It made his heart leap each time. She showered and found a sweat shirt and pants, dressed, having to roll up them up, and sat with Tarzan to eat breakfast. They ate and talked and laughed. They were very happy. Her cell phone began vibrating. Tarzan’s excellent senses felt the vibrations coming from Jane’s purse. “Jane, your purse is making a wave sound,” he said. “Oh my God! Bring it to me, please.” He did and she fished out the cell phone. Sure enough, call waiting showed that Nikki was trying to find her. “It’s Nikki. I’m in big trouble. She will be furious with me.” Cried Jane. “Why? We did nothing wrong.” he stated. “No, but I didn’t come home last night. I was with you, in your room. You see, she thinks I am too young to have – uhmm – to be with a man. She is very protective of me. She must be very worried.” “But Jane, we love each other. Nikki wants you to be happy. She will understand. We will explain it to her.” “I’m not so sure. I guess I’d better call her.” Nikki dialed Jane’s number again. When Nikki finally was able to get back home in the early morning from her Oscar night assignment, she hadn’t realized that Jane was not in her room. She was too tired and went directly to her room to get some sleep. In the morning, however, when she knocked on Jane’s door and got no response, she entered. Her bed was unslept in. ‘What happened to her? Where was she?’ Nikki’s mind went to the veiled threat of Rokkoff and the confidential documents Jane had taken from Richard. Richard was a major problem. He was involved in an affair that was a national safety issue. Her sister needed to be much more careful. She could become a target or be used as a pawn in that conspiracy. Nikki knew her sister thought she was a master detective and this bravado would be just the thing that could get her hurt. Her phone rang. “Hello, Jane? Where are you? I’ve been so worried when I realized you were not home. I got in around 3 am and crashed. I need to sleep. I just looked in your bedroom and saw you have not come home. What’s up? Are you OK?” The concern in Nikki’s voice was undeniable. “Nikki. I’m so sorry that I didn’t call to leave you a message. I stayed at Paul’s,” she tried to make her voice sound controlled. “You stayed at Paul’s,” Nikki repeated. “Ok. Why? Since when were you using his place.” “Well, we all came here after the Governor’s Ball. We looked at the tapes. Wasn’t it wonderful?” She tried to move off of the uncomfortable topic. “So, you went to Paul’s after the Ball. And???” Nikki was not going to be detoured. “Well, one thing led to another. It was very late. Tarzan offered his room. So I stayed overnight.” She ended. “I see. One thing led to another? Listen. I have to go to work. We’ll continue this discussion later. Come home NOW.” Said Nikki in her most authoritarian voice and hung up before Jane could respond. Paul was mildly surprised to find Jane wearing Tarzan’s clothes and carrying her evening gown. He called for his chauffeur to drive her home. Tarzan kissed Jane tenderly and told her not to worry. He offered to face Nikki with her if she wished. Jane thought about it and decided she’d better talk with Nikki alone and told him so. Chapter 14 – Playing “Tarzan,” Paul announced. “Today I think we need to chill out and take a day off of your lessons. What do you say?” “Good. What do you have in mind?” “Well, you are athletic so I thought you’d like to learn some games and fun things. We play games like tennis, badminton, touch football, basket ball and you’d be a natural for surfing. Let’s go to the beach today.” “Yes. I like the beach. But what is surfing?” “It’s riding the wave as it comes to shore on a piece of wood.” That was the simplest explanation. “Why do you do this?” asked Tarzan. “Just to see how long we can balance on the wood. The idea is to ride the wave up to the shore. Sometimes you fall off because the wave is too strong or you make the wrong move. But if you can a ‘perfect wave’, the ride is thrilling.” They drove to Malibu where Surfrider Beach was. The waves there would be just enough to challenge a beginner as well as an intermediate. Tarzan would not wear a wet suite. Paul put on his and picked out a board for him. He showed him the rudiments and let nature take it’s course. Tarzan was indeed a natural. He easily learned how to balance on the board and how to move along it to control its direction. It did not take long for him to be “hanging ten” with the best of them. Paul was so pleased. They returned to the same beach several days in a row. Tarzan loved the freedom that surfing gave him along with the ocean’s challenges. He fell off too but learned from each experience. Paul saw a poster announcing a surfing competition in the summer and decided to enroll in it and to enter Tarzan too. Tarzan needed to integrate with other people so a contest might be a good starting point. And this one did not require clothes – except for bathing trunks. Tarzan would be comfortable as well as learning how to socialize. Nikki met Jane at the door to their apartment. She noticed her attire. “Well, what have you to say for yourself? Where did you get those clothes?” “Nikki, I didn’t think you’d be so worried about me. We all went to Paul’s after the Governor’s Ball to watch the tapes of my interviews and some other footage. I even saw myself being interviewed by none other than Katy Couric!! Oh what a geek I looked like! The others told me I came off very well but I don’t think so. It was such special evening. Well, it was getting late and everyone was exhausted. Paul said we could stay over. In the morning, I realized I had left my regular clothes at Hazel’s. Tarzan let me borrow his.” She broke off with. “Oh Nikki, I really very sorry I worried you.” They hugged each other. Nikki could not stay anger for too long where her sister was concerned. “I thought the worst, that someone had taken you because of the information in that envelope. You need to be very careful. The data in there is being handled by the CIA and Homeland Security. You might get yourself in a situation that is way beyond anything either of us expected. Richard Clayton is playing a very dangerous game. You need to stay away from him.” “I will,” Jane promised. “There is no reason for me to see him again. But Nikki, I feel sorry for him. I think he is really trying to change but his past keeps actions coming back to work against him. I hope you can help him get out of the mess he’s in.” Nikki looked at her sister. Jane had always been emphatic and had a protective nature for those who were in trouble. “I will try, honey, but I don’t want you involved. I know how you are. But this is serious business with people who would stop at nothing to achieve their goals.” Changing the subject, Nikki said, “Now get yourself into your own clothes and let’s go have breakfast at IHOP.” Jane laughed because she realized how she must have looked to Nikki, coming in wearing Tarzan’s oversized clothes! “I had to wear something other than that evening gown! Tarzan was nice enough to give him his favorite outfit. I’ll return it to him later.” And with that she went to take a shower and change. They left for IHOP about an hour later, chatting about the Oscars. In another part of town, a nervous Rokkoff was ushered into Richard Clayton’s office. “You stupid fool! What were you thinking! You let him escape! You’ve ruined everything!” shouted Richard. “Mr. Clayton, calm yourself.” Said Rokkoff smoothly. “It was impossible for me to accompany him as we are in the most delicate negotiations for our product – as well you know. However, all seems to have turned out well. I saw your splendid performance at the Oscars. Your acceptance of your nephew in front of millions was brilliant.” “Yes but now I have a new problem. I cannot gain control of him while my meddling sister and those college kids are teaching how to behave in public. I wanted a savage, wild creature who needed to be restrained and kept under constant surveillance. That time has passed.” “May I offer another plan?” said Rokkoff. Tarzan went to the beach almost daily, either with Paul or by himself. Paul would drive him there. When he went alone, he took the mountain trails. He loved the calming affect the ocean had on him. His travels over the mountains helped sustain him in an otherwise crowded, smelly, noisy world he had been thrust into. He found himself adapting to companionship with his new friends. He wanted more than anything else to win Jane over by becoming the civilized man she seemed to prefer him to be. He also wanted to belong to his people as he never had within the ape tribe. Kala had been his only anchor – the one person who loved him unconditionally. In the way of the apes, he returned that love. He became a minor celebrity at the beach. He natural physical prowess along with his handsome physique made him very popular with the sunbathing beach beauties. They watched him from the shoreline and tried to get him to join them. Tarzan, however, smiled at them, avoided their invitations, and kept to himself. He had no concept that he was attractive to the other sex. One day, however, he was surfing as usual when another surfer who was somewhat down the beach from his spot fell off the surfboard and did not resurface. Tarzan maneuvered his board as close to the spot where that surfer had fallen and dove into the churning surf. It did not take him long to see the surfer in the murky waters and to put a protective arm around, swimming to the surface. He easily carried the body to the shore and administered his own brand of resuscitation. He draped her over his knees and pressed against her back where her lungs were to clear them of water. She eventually spit up the water in them. In a few moments, the surfer coughed up water and was able to sit up, still in his lap. “Are you all right?” Tarzan asked concerned. “You might have hit your head when you went under the water.” “I-I think I’m all right. Oh my God! I’ve never had this happen before! I was so scared. I –I ..” and she melted into his shoulder, crying convulsively. Tarzan put his arms around her and held her as he would have a baby. He rocked her back and forth and softly whispered comforting words. After a while, she stopped crying and sat up in his arms. “Thank you for rescuing me. I guess I caught a cross-wave or something that I didn’t except. I’m glad you were there. My name is Dejah Thoris. What is your’s?” “Tarzan,” he answered. He looked at her carefully to make sure she was ok. She had a long, lean body beautifully proportioned with a crown of dark brown hair. Her classic facial features with dark, limpid eyes and full lips gave only a slight hint to her sexuality. She had a venerability about her that called into play his protective instincts. She needed help and Tarzan would help her. “Can you stand and walk?” he asked with concern. “I think so,” she answered and tried to stand up. She stood for a moment and would have fallen had Tarzan not caught her. “I guess not,” she said with a slight smile. “I live over there. It’s not far. Can you help me get there?” She pointed towards the row of condos that lined the boardwalk. “Yes, I will help you. You are not very steady on your feet and will not make it over there on your own,” he said. So, Tarzan helped Dejah walk to her condo. He was about to leave her at her door but she again became weak. She had managed to unlock the door so he picked her up and brought her inside placing her on a couch in the living room. “Please don’t go,” she pleaded as he turned to leave her. “I’m still so shaken by that wipe out. I guess I’d better call my doctor.” But as she said this, she put her head on the sofa’s pillow and fell asleep. Tarzan found an afghan to cover her and quietly left. He made a point of remembering which condo this was. Chapter 15 – Conspiracies In the days and weeks that followed, Tarzan made frequent visits to that specific beach and was drawn into a quiet friendship with the woman he had rescued. He found it easy to talk with her. She was neither judgmental nor critical of him. If he became overly protective of her when other men approached on the beach, she smoothed everything over and made him feel he was performing a great heroic act. She was friendly but not too friendly – yet. One day Jane decided to surprise Tarzan with a picnic lunch at the beach. She packed the picnic basket with sandwiches, fruits, and cold soft drinks. She wore her bathing suit under a sarong cover-up, packed her surf board, took a beach towel and blanket, and put everything into the back of her Mini Cooper and drove to Surfrider beach. She knew that this was Tarzan’s favorite place to surf during the week. On weekends, he avoided it because of the crush of people. But as it was a week day, it was virtually deserted. The parking lot which was above the beach was secluded from it by a row of trees. A footpath led down to the beach itself. She parked her car and started looking for Tarzan. She was about to descend when she noticed him coming out of the surf. But he was not alone! Her mouth dropped. He was playing in surf with a beautiful woman Jane had never seen before. He was chasing her up and down the beach and finally tackled her into the sand. They were laughing with each other and having a great time. Tarzan’s instincts sensed the presence of another person watching them. He rolled quickly over into a crouched position and looked squarely towards where Jane was standing. Recognizing her even from that distance, he smiled broadly and got up to join her. Jane’s reaction was not what he’d expected at all. She turned around, ran back to her car, jumped in, and, before he could reach the parking lot, and gunned her motor. He was left standing in a near-empty parking lot with a picnic basket on the ground watching Jane’s car streak down PCH. He knew he couldn’t catch her car at the speed it was going. He got a fleeting, icy look from her. She was very angry with him. He didn’t understand this at all. ‘Why did she leave so quickly? Why did she look so mad and hurt? What did I do wrong?’ He returned to where Dejah lay stretched out on a blanket in the sand and now working on her tan. “What was that all about?” she asked innocently. “I do not know. That was Jane. She must have come to find me so we could eat together but, when I ran over to her, she drove off very fast.” “Did she say anything to you? What do you have there?” “No, she was gone when I reached the parking lot. I think she is mad at me but I don’t know why,” he said in a confused tone. “Oh a basket with food in it.” “You have a lot to learn about women. She was surprised to find you with me. It’s normal for a woman to be jealous of her rival. Haven’t you told her about me?” “No. There is nothing to tell. Rival? She has no rival. I never thought I needed to tell her everything I did.” “ ‘Nothing to tell’, ‘no rival’? You sure know how to hurt a lady’s feelings.” She laughed. “Oh, I did not mean to do that to you!” he said earnestly. “You are my friend. Jane is … My feelings for Jane … Well, Jane is everything to me. I do not know how to explain it.” He ended. “You didn’t hurt my feelings, just bruised my ego a little, that’s all. You have explained yourself very well. I can see you’re head over heels in love with her. But does she return that love – in the way you want her to?” she asked softly. “No, not really. I want to … to have Jane as a … mate, a wife. She wants other things…” and his voice trailed off sadly. “Well, that’s her problem, not your’s. I’m sure if you’re patient with her, she’ll come around.” purred Dejah brightly. “She knows you love her. She just has to admit that she’s in love with you too.” “It is not that easy. You see, I have never told you about myself. But a few months ago, I lived in the jungles of Africa. I was raised by apes and had never seen a human until the Clayton party came. Jane saw me as I was -- a wild brute who ate raw meat with his hands and killed to survive. I have tried to change so I would become a civilized man but…I am still wild at heart.” He couldn’t continue. “Well, that explains some of your lack of social graces but you’ve come a long way from that wild man. I’m sure she knows this, deep down in her heart. Give her time.” Said Dejah in a soothing voice. “Perhaps she’s been too close to your transformation to see you as I see you now. And as I said before, she never expected to find you with another woman. She may be a little jealous. This could be a good thing. Let her think she has competition.” “But I would have to love that other woman, wouldn’t I? Jane is the only woman for me,” he stated emphatically. “Love’s a little game that men and woman play, Tarzan. I can see that you are inexperienced in these matters. If you ever want to talk about them, please come to me.” She didn’t press her point further. “Hey, let’s not waste this food. It will spoil if it isn’t eaten.” So they spread out the picnic foods – foods that Jane had selected specially for Tarzan – and ate and talked. “Dejah, you are not embarrassed when I do things …like a wild creature. But Jane is. I can see it in her eyes and the way her body reacts,” He said sadly. “You’re wrong. She’s been there for you, just as you’ve been there for her. Why should Jane be embarrassed by you? You don’t embarrass me and I don’t even know you very well” “I do not always behave well when I am with people,” he explained. “She did not want me to go to the Oscars with her. I heard her tell her sister that she did not want me there. Yet when I did get a chance to go, she was very happy and pleased to see me.” “See. She wants you. She’s being overly protective. Sounds like someone I know,” She laughed and gave him a hug. ”Now you’d better go do some fence-mending with your lady love.” “Fence-mending? There is no fence to mend. But I understand that I have to make things right between us. Dejah, are women always this difficult to understand?” “Always. We’re an enigma! Don’t ask what that word means. You’ll have to find it definition out for yourself. You’d better scoot.” And she rolled over onto her stomach to continue her tan. ‘Yes, it was working out well. That stupid girl couldn’t have given her a better opportunity.’ “Thank you. You are a good friend.” He said and left quickly for Jane’s apartment. ‘But why was Jane jealous?’ he thought. No sooner was Tarzan out of sight than Dejah made a phone call. “Hello. It’s me. I’ve provided that distraction you wanted. Timing is everything. She accidentally saw us together, nothing serious but enough for her to reach her own conclusions. I couldn’t have planned it better myself. You’d better make your move now. I have him where I want him. It’s almost too easy – like taking candy from a baby. Don’t worry. I’ll give him something else to think about than that milquetoast of a Jane Porter. Oh, don’t forget to make that deposit in my account. I’ll be expecting it on a monthly basis until our business is concluded. We understand each other. ‘Bye.” *********** As Jane drove back to her apartment, she found herself crying. She really didn’t know why. Tarzan had a right to see other people including other women if he wanted to. In his innocent way, he made friends without any suspicion of motives and gave of himself unselfishly. ‘Why did I leave the beach? Why am I so angry with him? He probably met her while surfing. It was all innocent enough. But the way they were running and playing with each other ... Am I reading more into this?’ She entered her apartment, went directly to her bedroom, fell into her bed and had a really good cry. She had never expected that he would be interested in another woman. She had taken his love for granted! She moved to the kitchen to make herself a cup of tea when she heard a noise coming from her bedroom. She knew he had arrived. How was she going to handle this? She had no idea. He came behind her and gently sniffed her hair. He was about to caress her but she put up her hand to stop him. “You left this basket at the beach. Why did you leave?” His voice was deep and soft. She felt a warmth beginning where he had sniffed her and filling her entire body. ‘He has such an affect on me. I have to concentrate on something else.’ “Did I? I didn’t realize it. I left because I was not wanted,“ she said simply and turned to face him. Her eyes told him how hurt she was. She was on the verge of tears again. “Jane, what have I done to hurt you so? Your eyes tell me that. I love you and I am sorry for whatever it is,” he said earnestly. “Oh Tarzan, I should be asking for your forgiveness. I don’t know what came over me. I thought you didn’t want me around. That’s why I left.” “You should know by now that you are the center of my life. I always want you.” His voice was deep and resonant. She was beginning to melt again. “Well let’s not waste a perfectly good lunch,” she said and opened the basket. She blanched. It was empty of food. All of the plates and utensils were in their place. She looked up at Tarzan with a questioning look as her anger mounted. “Dejah said that the food would spoil. So, we ate it. It was very good,” he said innocently. “GET OUT!” she shouted at him and pushed him towards the French doors. “You ate MY FOOD with HER! How dare you come here and pretend to apologize!” and she kept pushing him out onto the balcony. She slammed the French doors shut and locked them. Tarzan had no idea what had just happened. He hadn’t pretended anything. He was sincere. But now she was very angry with him, again. She had locked him out, something that would not stop him from gaining entrance if he wanted to. But he sensed this was not the time to go back in. He decided it was better to let her cool down. Sadly and in confusion, he left taking the mountain trails with no real destination. He needed to think this out. Jane was running hot and cold. Maybe this was the definition of “enigma”. But his footsteps were leading him back to the beach! Jane was miserable. He was so cavalier about his involvement with another woman. Was he really that innocent? Just then the phone rang. “Hello Jane,” said a familiar voice. “It’s Richard." “Hello, Richard. How nice of you to call! Yes, High tea? That would be lovely. I’ll meet you at the Peninsula Hotel in an hour. Good bye.” With a determined look on her face, she turned, picked up her purse, and left for high tea with Richard. She fully intended to have a good time with him. ‘After all,’ she thought, ‘I can play the field too. I’ve been too involved with HIM. I need a break from all of that.’
The Peninsula Hotel occupied its own triangular “island” just off Wilshire Boulevard. It was larger than the bouquet hotels in the area but smaller than the Hilton or the Beverly Hills Hotel on Sunset. It had lovely grounds with a hidden garden within the center core of the facility. That’s where Jane and Richard were engrossed in conversation. They spoke of pleasant general topics and the conversation was light and friendly. She was really enjoying this. Richard had another agenda on his mind, however. “Jane, I need to ask you a question.” Jane became very quiet. He had a sinister look about him that made her very nervous. “Did you remove an envelope from the plane the day you arrived?” Jane almost gave an audible gasp but managed to retain her composure. ‘He’s fishing for information. I mustn’t let on I know its contents.’ “It’s very important that I get the envelope back.” “I don’t know what you mean, Richard,” she said as calmly as she could. “I haven’t had time to unpack all of my things. I may have accidentally picked up something of your’s on the plane. You see, I used my laptop at your desk and spread out all of my notes. When the pilot told me that we were approaching Van Nuys Airport and that I had to hurry up to prepare for landing, I just swept everything into my case without checking. I’ll look right away when I get home.” She hoped that she sounded plausible enough. She didn’t like lying but she needed to speak with Nikki before telling Richard anything else. He seemed to accept her explanation. “Please look for it. I can’t emphasize enough how very important to me it is.” “Of course, I will just as soon as I get back.” “Jane, I’m involved in certain business activities that are dangerous. There is homeland security at stake. I am attempting to disassociate myself them. I did not want to be involved in them in the first place. But circumstances forced me to participate. That envelope contains data that would get me out of this association . But if it fell in the wrong hands, this country would be in danger and I would be ruined.” “Can you talk about these business activities? What do they have to do with me?” she said in an astonished voice. Her senses were perking up. Nikki would be interested in any information he divulged. “All right. I’ll tell you some of what I’m involved in. Over twenty years ago, my brother was asked by the CIA to do some reconnaissance for them while he was in Africa on Greystoke business. He reluctantly agreed. He found a secret biochemical lab facility hidden in the jungle and was sending information about it back to CIA headquarters when he and his wife were killed by the apes. That started a lot of things in motion which I will not discuss at this time. “But a few years ago, I was approached by certain parties who found the lab, figured out what it was for, and wanted to reactivate it. They tried to blackmail me into partnering with them to fund its remodeling and eventually finding a buyer for their product. I turned the tables on them and sent mercenaries to take over that lab myself. It was an ugly, bloody scene, no survivors. I have to be ruthless when it’s necessary. I hope you can understand this. I never act without a reason. “I then contacted the CIA. I would get immunity if I cooperated with them. I have been working as a double agent ever since. I reestablished the lab and have made contact with certain parties who want those biochemicals. I was not interested in what or how they intended to use them. My focus was purely business. I tell you this only because Paul and you accidentally discovered that cave with the communication devices.“ he paused to see what her reaction was. She didn’t know what to say. This was unexpected information. Richard as a double agent. Who knew, who expected this? Especially since Richard had a reputation for ruthlessness in the business world that rivaled no one. “Biochemicals?? They could be used by our enemies in the War on Terror!” she gasped. “Why didn’t you just destroy that lab, Richard?” “I saw it as an opportunity to make money. I’m not proud of it. I came to realize that I cannot open this Pandora’s box onto the world nor let this information fall into the hands of those who would use it. I’m redeeming myself by working for the CIA. They insist I keep the lab productive and continue to make the least dangerous biochemicals just to keep up the cover. When the buyers try to make their pick up, the CIA will swoop in, destroy the lab and its paper trail, and arrest them. They will also follow the trail to the main organizers. My involvement will and must remain a secret as they want me to continue to work for them even after that. It’s the price I’m paying in order to avoid prison.” ‘Now that is just like Richard,’ thought Jane. ‘To avoid prison, and more importantly, being ousted from his positions at Greystoke Industries, he would do anything, even become patriotic. I have to get out of here and find Nikki.’ “Richard, you are telling me things that are very serious and very confidential. I think I’d better get home to look to see if I have that envelope. Don’t worry about me. My sister is, after all, a detective. She can protect me.” “These people play for keeps. They will not stop to get what they want. They already “own” people high policing agencies and in our government. I would feel better if you and your sister moved in with me at the Greystoke Estate. I have the resources to protect you better than the cops can,” he countered. “That won’t be necessary,” she said coolly. “I feel very safe where I live. It’s very isolated in Nickols Canyon which is a dead-end street. Strangers don’t usually come around. We have a very strong Neighborhood Watch Program in place. I’m sure Nikki would agree with me. Thank you for the high tea, Richard. I’ll call you real soon.” And with that, she rose and left the Peninsula Hotel. As she drove back to her apartment, which really was a duplex, she anxiously dialed Nikki on her cell phone. “Nikki! I have to see you! I just came from having high tea with Richard. Yes, I know you told me to stay away from him but I was mad at Tarzan. I’ll explain when I see you. When will you be home?” “Jane, I’m going to send a squad car to watch the duplex. Someone may be following you right now. I have turned over that envelope to the CIA. It’s interesting but … We’ll talk at home. See you in an hour. Lock all of the doors when you get home.” “Yes I will, Nikki.” Jane drove aimlessly for a while. She thought of what had happened earlier today. She needed to see Tarzan. He would protect her. She had not mentioned his name to Richard as she felt that Richard was still eager to hurt him. She sighed and wondered how she would make things right between them. Clearly, he was entering into a new plateau in his development. He needed to branch out and test his social skills outside of his close circle of friends. She had been overly protective, smothering him in a way. She wanted to tell him that he had every right to meet new people, that he was free and trusted to act well in public. As she thought of this, she decided to drive over to Paul’s to see him and explain this to him instead of going directly home. When she pulled into the parking area after announcing herself at the security gate, she ran into Paul’s wing. Paul was in his study and came out to greet her. “Hi Jane, what’s up?” he asked as he noted her sense of urgency. “Hi. I’m looking for Tarzan. Is he here? I had a disagreement with him. “Oh so there’s trouble in Paradise,” Paul teased. “Has he mentioned meeting someone new at the beach? Someone he rescued?” “No. He hasn’t. He is growing up before our eyes. He’s made so much progress in such a short period of Time. I guess he’s got a private life too now,” he laughed. “It’s another woman. Oh, don’t look
at me like that. I know I sound jealous. |