[DeppAngel]

CH. 89 What happens now?

2 days later...

Hello and welcome back to E news, I'm Ryan Seacrest. Is Criss Angel's retirement from magic reality or just an illusion? We are not the only ones wondering about it, but the loyals seem to be going insane. But it is now confirm. Last night JD Sarantakos talked to the press and put and end to this commotion. This is what the Mindfreak's brother had to say. (shows clip) JD: "I came here to clarify that my brother Criss did in fact retire from Magic. This is no joke and definitely no illusion. Mindfreak productions along with Believe is over. Criss decided to retire because he knew his work as a magician had come to an end. I have to say along with my family that we are sad that this ride is over. But it was my brother's decision and we respect that". Well there you have it. Criss did in fact said good bye to the world of illusions. JD was also asked about where his brother had gone. But he only said to respect his brother's privacy. However, that is not the only bombshell JD had to say, he also confirmed that Criss and Liliana had broken up. He didn't go into detail about that. But we will try to go more into depth. Well Criss, we are sad that you retired but it was nice to see you in show biz and good luck.

Dimi turn off the t.v and turn around to see what her dad was doing. " This seems all like an illusion. How come my uncle decided to leave just like that? and not only that but to break up with Liliana?" Dimi asked her dad. JD looked up as he continued sitting on the table. "Well, Dimi. Like I said in the press. His work as a magician came to an end. And about Lily and him breaking up, I'm not sure" JD stated as he looked at his daughter. "And where did my uncle go anyways?" Dimi asked curious as she got up and walked to where her dad was. "He left to Europe. Not sure what part" he said as he continued writing. " And Liliana and my little cousin?" she asked again.

JD stopped writing and looked out the window and sighed. "Now, that I don't know" he said. "Do you think they're gonna get back?" Dimi asked as she went to grab a glass of water. " I don't think so honey" JD replied. "So its over. Like OVER?" Dimi asked surprised. "I'm afraid it is..Liliana said she would try to keep in contact with us. To tell us how Christopher is doing" JD said trying to cheer Dimi up. "Well, is not fair. That they ended like that. I mean they went through a lot just to be together. and all of the sudden its over..hmm" Dimi stated as she sat down. "Well that's life. Life isn't fair is it?" JD asked as Dimi nodded her head.

Down in production Costa was there inspecting as workers cleared the place out. "So is really over? huh" Felix said as he walked in. Costa looked back and greeted him with a hug. "Yup" Costa replied. "I'm sorry everything ended like this" Felix said. "Yeah me too. All this happen to fast. But thank you Felix for everything" Costa said. "Ahh no problem Costa. Like I told JD. Just because Criss left doesn't mean you have to leave from the Luxor too" Felix commented. "yeah JD commented me about that. But we are already decided to head back to New York. That's what my mom wanted" Costa replied. Felix smiled. "Well if that's your family's decision. I respect that. I too wouldn't like to live all my life in a hotel" Felix said making Costa laugh. "Well Costa gotta go. If you need any more workers to help you in here. Just call me" Felix said and left.

Back in Dimitra's room Lynn and Dimitra were talking. "So are you ready to go back to New York?" Lynn asked. "Yes I am. It's been a long time. It's been almost 6 years since I moved right here to Vegas. I didn't wanted to move. But all the boys convince me. I'm just glad that I didn't sold the house" Dimitra said with a laugh. "I know" Lynn replied. "And how's Dimi with the whole New York thing?" Dimitra asked. Lynn sighed. "Well she wasn't very please. She said that her whole life was here and her friends. But at the end JD convinced her. So we're all good now" she said. "Ohh that's good" Dimitra said as she looked down. "Are you ok Dimitra?" Lynn asked worried. "I'm just a bit sad about Christopher. I hope I can see him again and I hope I can see my grandson again too" Dimitra said in a sad tone. "Aww don't worry Dimitra. I know Criss will come back and see you. He has to comunicate with his family sooner or later. And about little Christopher don't worry either. JD told me that Liliana told them that she was going to keep in contact so you all can hear about how the boy is doing" Lynn stated. "I hope so" Dimitra replied.

A few days later, JD and Costa had everything under control. They had clean up the whole production office and everything that had to do with Mindfreak productions. "Well is everyone ready?" JD asked as he loaded that last luggage into the taxi. While everyone replied with a yes. In that moment Felix came out. "I see that you are all ready" he stated. "Yeah" Costa remarked. JD then got near him. "Well here is the key to what used to be the mindfreak store and production" JD said as he gave the keys to Felix. "Thank you. I'm sad that you all are leaving. Your all gonna be missed. We had a good run. and I hope you can come down from time to time to visit and you know my number call me anytime" Felix said with a smile. "Thank you Felix, you been and are a great friend. You're like our family. and we thank you for everything that you have done to us" JD exclaimed. "Well I guess we have to go, we don't wanna miss our flight" Costa remarked. "Well ok guys, bye take care" Felix said and hugged everyone goodbye and the taxi drove off to the airport. Everyone aboard the plane. "Bye Las Vegas good bye!" Dimi said as tears fell down and the plane took off.

[DeppAngel]

CH. 90 As Time goes by

Months later...

Dimitra sat on the living room watching some t.v as JD walked in. "Hi mom" he said as he approached her to give her a kiss. "Hi sweetheart, you're home early" Dimita stated as JD sat down next to her. "Yeah, I had the chance to get out early today" he said as he glanced at the t.v. "Where is Costa?" he asked. "He went to your aunt Stella's house to help her with some errands because George is out of town" she said. In that moment hammie went into the living room meowing and JD rapidly picked him up. "Hey buddy" JD said as he started to pet him. Dimitra lowered her sight, making JD notice. "Mom, are you ok?" he said worried. Dimitra started to wipe her eyes, "every time I see hammie, I remember Christopher. You know how much he love his cat" she said as more tears started to fall. JD put hammie down and got near her. "Mom, I know how you feel. The fact that he left without saying good bye and that we haven't heard from him for about 9 months is hard" JD stated as he grabbed his mom's hand. "and not only that. But we haven't heard from Liliana either. I really wanna know how my grandson is doing" she said sadly. JD sighed, "Yes mom, I know. you have to understand that we are still healing from the pain. Our wound is still open and I guess the only medication that will cure our pain is time" he said as he gave Dimitra a hug.

Since the Sarantakos family move to New York. JD and Lynn decided to live in Dimitra's house along with Costa and Dimi. They didn't wanted to leave her alone, for the fact that she was still vulnerable about Criss' absence. JD worked as a production manager for CBS television station thanks to some friends that worked there, while Costa worked in a radio station. Since their arrival to the big apple, they tried to live a normal live. For their first time in their life they were living under the radar, with no paparazzi, no media around. Now instead of working in front of the camera they worked behind it. Dimi continued with her studies in high school while her mom, Lynn, worked as a restaurant manager. Overall, they had a nice decent life. However, they were still haunted by Criss.

That night, the whole family was dining while they chat about their days. Costa finished his dinner and excused himself and headed to the living room to watch some tv. "So how was your day in school darling?" Dimitra asked Dimi. "It was good grandma, I had a lot of fun today in photo class" she stated hapily making everyone smile. "How about you Lynn, how was work?" DImitra asked her as she took a bite of her food. "It was good, I can't complain" she said with a smile. Suddenly Costa yelled. "JD!! JD come here! quick!" JD looked at everyone who was sitting on the table and rapidly got up and run to the living. "what?" he said curious. "Look" Costa said as he put the t.v's volume up.

"Braking news, it appears to be that France is going through another reign of Bank robberies. This afternoon the BNP Paribas bank, one of the largest global banking groups in the world has been robbed for the first time ever. The bank was robbed this afternoon around 2:35. Witnesses say there was a huge explosion, other's say that they saw only one man. Only one person died and 26 where badly injured from the explosion. Official's stated that the bank had a monetary loss of 5.6 million euros. Making this the largest quantity robbed in just a matter of seconds. Police are now looking for the suspect and think this person may be the same one who robbed another bank in the city of Lyon who got away with 900,000 euros".

"Oh my god, so he's really in France" JD whispered as Costa looked at him shocked. "Do you think it was him?" Costa said quietly. JD looked back at him and sighed. "I'm afraid he did. I mean that's why he left over there, to do that" JD stated. In that moment Dimitra came in. "What happen, why did you call for JD?" she asked costa. Costa got nervous, trying to look for an excuse. "Oh he wanted to show me a funny commercial, that he saw the other day" JD replied. Dimitra just nodded her head, "Boys will be boys" she said with a small laugh and headed up stairs. JD waited for his mom to get all the way up and looked at Costa again. He then looked up as he tried to think, and suddenly moved his head as an idea had crossed his mind. He looked back at his brother, "Costa, get ready because we're flying to France...I think is time to confront our brother" JD whispered as Costa eyes widen.

[DeppAngel]

CH. 91 Bad luck or just destiny

3 days later...

Costa was in the kitchen grabbing something to eat when all of the sudden JD walked in. "Hey bro, what are you doing?" JD said as he leaned against the counter. " Just grabbing something to eat. I haven't eaten the whole day" Costa said as he took a bite of a sandwich he just prepared. JD then looked around the kitchen suspicious. "Where is mom, Lynn and Dimi?" JD asked. "Oh they went to visit aunt Stella. JD then got up and looked out the kitchen and walked back in. "I got the tickets" he stated. "What?" Costa said surprised. "Yeah, we leave this weekend" JD said firmly. "Wow so soon. I thought maybe we were gonna leave to France like in two weeks" Costa said still surprised. "We can't waste our time Costa. We need to stop Criss from doing those bank robberies" JD replied. "Ok fine. But what are we telling mom? and what are you gonna tell Lynn?" Costa asked a bit worried. "Don't worry about that. We're gonna tell them. That we are flying to California for business" JD said confident. Costa gave him a doubtful look. "Are you sure they're going to buy that?" Costa asked as he took another bite from his sandwich. "I'm sure" JD exclaimed.

Before you can blink your eyes, Friday had arrived. Costa and JD managed to tell their family that they were going to California for business. They just took one small bag where they put their clothes. "Yes mom, don't worry, I'll call you when I get there ok" JD said as he hugged her goodbye. Costa then came inside the living room. "JD the cab is here. We have to go" he said as he approached his mom. "Bye mom" Costa said as he gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Bye sweetie and take care. And don't be fooling around" Dimitra said with a smile. "Yeah, you tell him mom" JD said with a chuckle while he said goodbye to Lynn and Dimi. And soon enough they headed to the airport.

As they sat on the plane on their way to France JD and Costa continued talking. "Do you think Criss is going to listen to us?" Costa asked concerned. "He has to. I know he's making his life miserable. He just lost Liliana and not only her but his son too. I wouldn't bare to be way from my daughter forever". JD explained. "Hope mom doesn't find out that we lie to her" Costa said. "She wont. I hope so" JD said as he looked out the window. Costa then looked at his watch. "Oh man 7 more hours to go" he said annoyed. "Yeah, so we better get some sleep. Cuz arriving to Paris we have a lot of things to do" JD said as he turn off the little light at the top. Costa agreed and went to sleep too.

"Bonjour tous le monde. (Good morning everybody) This is your captain speaking. Just want you to inform you all. That we will be landing in 10 minutes. If you look out your windows you will see the beautiful city of Paris. Thank you for choosing France airline. It's been a pleasure flying you this day. I'm your captain Francois Bell. Hope you have a wonderful time here. And welcome to the city of Paris" the captain said and the speaker went off. "Ahh finally" Costa said as he stretched and looked over to see JD drinking coffee. "Man you do wake up early" Costa said still in a sleepy tone. "I just woke up 30 minutes ago" JD said and took a sip of his drink.

As soon as they got of the airport they grabbed a cab and headed to their hotel. "Ok so now what?" Costa said as he sat on the bed while JD looked outside the window. "Well is 8:45 am. I guess we should eat some breakfast and start looking where Criss might be" JD commented and they both headed down to a restaurant. As they were having breakfast. JD grabbed a newspaper and tried to see if any more bank robberies were made. "Costa look" JD said as he showed the newspaper to him. "What?" Costa said as he stared at the paper. "Dude. I don't know french" Costa said as he raised one eyebrow. "I know but look. For what I understand from my very little knowledge of french. It seems to be that another robbery was made 2 days ago. Right here in Paris. Look it says 'explosion'. It must be Criss. Remember he is the only one who uses explosives in his robberies" JD explained. "Well then, what are we waiting for..let's go there to see if we can find any clues and maybe lead us to where Criss is" Costa exclaimed as he got up. JD nodded and headed out.

When they got there. They saw that the bank was closed due to the explosion that had caused damage. They both tried to ask a few people what had happen so like that they would have more accurate information. But the lack of the french language was blocking them from getting to Criss. But still they didn't give up. They walked through parks, stores, malls, banks, even churches to see what clue could lead them to Criss but still they had no luck. "Man, this is useless. We've been looking around for almost 9 hours and still nothing. We started searching around 10 in the morning and look at the time. It's 7:00 pm. JD lets go rest" Costa said exhausted. JD sighed. "Yeah your right. Tomorrow we will search up north and see if we have luck there. He has to be here. I have a feeling he's still here in Paris. He just robbed a bank 2 days ago. So he must be here" JD said and they both headed back to their Hotel.

The next day JD woke Costa up. "Come on Costa get up. We still have a lot of work to do" JD said as he started to get dressed. Costa looked at the his watch. " 6:30 damn JD is to early" Costa whined. " Don't be such a baby come on. Get up. We need to find our brother" JD said as he made his way into the bathroom. "OK OK" Costa agreed and slowly got up. When they both got ready they headed down to eat breakfast and as soon as they finish they headed to the north side of the city. This time they worked twice as hard. They tried to ask a lot of people if any robberies were committed around the area. They went into stores and asked the owners. But still the language was a big barrier. But still they kept trying. "What if we show a picture of him. Maybe some of them have seen them" Costa commented. "I don't think is a good a idea." JD exclaimed and they kept looking. JD's watch struck 4:00 pm. "JD we've been searching all morning. This is impossible. We're never gonna find Criss in this enormous city" Costa said as he sat on a bench in the park. JD sighed and sat beside him. "Ahh you're right. Who was I kidding. This is harder than I thought" he said disappointed.

All of the sudden they heard a huge explosion. People started running and screaming. They looked up and saw smoke coming up from about two blocks away. JD and Costa looked at each other. "Criss" Costa said and they both started to run towards where the smoke was coming. When they got there glass was shattered all around the street. The explosion took place in a bank. People still continued to come out of the bank screaming. "It must be Criss. He must be inside..Let's go in" Costa said as he started to run towards the bank. "No, stop" JD said as he grabbed him. "We can't lose this opportunity let's go" Costa exclaimed and headed inside. JD followed him. There was still smoke everywhere making it impossible to see clearly. "Costa!" JD yelled but he only heard screaming from people. All of the sudden Costa and JD stated to hear the cops arriving. "The cops are here, JD where are you?" Costa yelled out. "I'm here" he said as he started to see Costa standing there. "He must be inside vault" Costa said. But as they started to move more inside the bank, cops started to enter. "Criss! Christopher!" JD and Costa yelled but there was no answer. "We have to get out of here. I can't take the smoke anymore" JD said in a weak voice. "And besides. But this time he must be out already" JD said.

"You're right lets go out" Costa said and they both run out of the bank. "Come let's go" Costa said, and they started to walk away. "Man, I can't believe he's gone. We had him so close" JD said. All of the sudden heavy foot steps where heard behind them as if some one was running towards them. " Freeze!!" three cops yelled. JD and Costa looked back. Suddenly an officer tackled JD on the ground. "Hey what's going on?' he said confused. Costa tried to help him but another cop was grabbing him. The office then started to get the handcuffs out and proceeded to handcuff JD as he spoke on the his radio. "We have him." the officer said. "Got what?" JD said still very confused. "Criss Angel you're under arrest for bank robberies" the officer stated.

[DeppAngel]

Ch. 92 Why is this happening to us?

So tell us Mr. Angel, how much money have you have stolen? The police officer asked JD as he walked back and forth inside the interrogation room. “I already told you, I’m not Criss Angel” JD said as he sat down on a chair still handcuffed. “Please, Angel. You don’t fool us. You think you’re so important to come and steal our money?” the officer asked with anger. JD just remained silent.

Meanwhile, Costa was trying to reach his cousin George back in New York. “Please, George pick up the phone” Costa said as he walked down the street. But George phone send him to his voicemail. Costa tried again, but still no luck. So he gave up and left him a voice mail. “Cous, as soon as you get this please call me back is an emergency, but don’t tell my mom or Lynn” Costa said and hang up. He then started to feel a bit hungry, so he decided to stop at a near local café to grab something to eat. He sat on a little table and ordered his food. While he waited he turned his head towards inside the café and saw the tv news. His eyes widen when he saw a picture of his brother JD appear on the screen. The reported announced that they had caught the bank robber who had been terrorizing Italy for almost 9 months. Everyone in the café cheered happily. Costa, on the other hand wasn’t very happy to hear that.

He finished his small meal and headed back to the police station to try and talk to JD. But the police officer didn’t let him. “Please sir, let me see him” Costa replied in agony. “You can’t I’m sorry” the officer said. “But you guys have the wrong guy” Costa remarked. The police just stared at him but didn’t say a word. Costa didn’t insist anymore and decided to head back to his hotel room.

Costa looked at his watch and saw it was 9:45 pm. He sighed as he looked up into the sky. “Dad why is this happening to us?” he said as a tear felt down his cheek. He quickly wiped it off and continued walking. He started to see his Hotel at a short distance away. A few people were walking by. He just needed to go through a small park and cross a street to reach his destination. It was almost black and only a few light posts illuminated the not so lonely street, as more people become visible. As Costa started to cross the street, he heard a voice which startled him. He looked to his right and then to his left but saw no one. He become frighten so he began to walk faster. As he reached the other side of the street he peeked to his left side and saw a shadow walking through a dark corner.

“So you came to find me?” the shadow said as the image of Criss appeared into the view.

[DeppAngel]

Ch. 93 Be Aware

Costa stood there like a statue. He wanted to hug his brother but was a bit frightened. He hadn’t seen him for almost a year and the last time he saw him, Criss was acting very estrange. Criss just stared at him waiting for an answer even though he already knew Costa’s response. “You’re not gonna answer me?” Criss asked. “Umm, I think you know why we’re here” Costa said. Criss couldn’t take it anymore and went straight towards Costa and hugged him. “Aww I missed you man” Costa remarked. “I missed you too bro. I missed you too” Criss replied as a tear roll down his cheek. “Oh my god Criss you have to help me, JD is..” Costa was saying but was suddenly interrupted by Criss. “ I know about JD” he said. “ But…how did you…find out?” Costa asked surprised. “ The news” he replied. “Criss please you have to take him out of there. The police think is you” Costa commented. “Don’t worry Costa. I have a plan” Criss said and they both walked inside the hotel.

The next morning Costa woke up to find Criss getting dressed. “Where are you going?” Costa asked him as he rubbed his eyes. “Glad you’re up. I was about to wake you…we’re going to meet someone” Criss said as he put his shirt on. “What time is it?” Costa said trying to look at the clock. “It’s 9:30…so hurry up because we have to be at the Café Des Deux Magots at 10:00” Criss said and went into the bathroom. Costa quickly got up and started to got dress as Criss made a call as he looked out the window. “Ok I’m ready” Costa said as he came out fixing his shirt. “Ok let’s go, we’re kind of late” Criss said and they both headed out the room.

When they reach the street Criss grabbed a cab and headed to the café. “So who are we going to see?” Costa said a bit confused. “You’ll see” Criss said as he put his black sun glasses on. Costa just stared at him for a while and then proceeded to look out the window. “Ok we’re here” the taxi driver said. “Merci” Criss said to the driver and paid him as he and Costa walk out of the taxi. “Ok he should be here” Criss said as he started to look around the café. “Who?” Costa still asked confused. “Oh there he is..Come” Criss said as he headed to one of the tables.

“Hey man” Criss said as he patted a man’s back. The man got up and greeted Criss with a hand shake. “This is my brother Costa…Costa this is Officer Adam Palmer” Criss said. “Nice to meet you” Palmer said. “You too” Costa said and they all sat down. “Criss I thought you had gone back to the states” Palmer said as he took a sip of his coffee. “ I did but…” Criss hesitated a bit. “It’s been like five years since I last saw you back in Italy remember” Palmer said. Criss let out a small nervous chuckled. “So you guys know each other?” Costa said a bit surprised. “Well Costa, I never told you but before I left back to the states I was in…jail because of bank robberies” Criss whispered. “What?? I knew you liked robbing banks but you never told me that you were in jail” Costa said surprised. “ I know. I’m sorry I only told JD about it” Criss said a bit embarrassed. “Don’t worry I knew you were having other problems for example Liliana” Costa said. “Liliana? You went back with her?” Palmer said. “Umm yeah, she told me what Inspector Lombardi had done. She explained everything. She told me that it wasn’t her intention to testify against me in court…we even have a son” Criss said as a smile appeared on his face as he remember his son. “Oh wow congratulations” Palmer said. “Thanks…and by the way how are Liliana and my son Costa?” Criss asked as he stared at him. “Umm….I don’t know. When you left from the Luxor she decided to leave too. And I don’t know where she is” Costa said. “What???” Criss said concerned. Costa looked at Palmer and then looked down. “Ok fine. That doesn’t matter right now what matters now is JD” Criss said.

“Ok Palmer so this is what happened, yesterday the police caught my brother JD and they think he is the one responsible for all those bank robberies…and I need to take him out of there. He is innocent” Criss replied. Palmer raised his eyebrow. “ And who’s the real bank robber?” Palmer said. Costa looked at Criss confused as Criss looked down. “Criss come on. I know you’re the one responsible for all those bank robberies this past 10 months” Palmer whispered. “Yes I know you’re not dumb” Criss said. “And you know I can arrest you any time right?” Palmer said. Criss looked up at Palmer worried. “You’re going to arrest me?” Criss said anxious. Palmer looked at him and then at Costa. “Of course not, you helped me with Chief Lombardi so I owe you one” Palmer said. Criss sighed in relief. “So are you going to help our brother JD get out of jail” Costa asked with hope. Palmer sighed “Yes” he said. “Ah thank god, thank you” Both Criss and and Costa said. “But I will help you with one condition” Palmer said. “What’s that?” Criss and Costa asked. “I will have your brother out of jail if Criss stops robbing banks for once and for all” he said firmly. Criss’ eyes widen.

[DeppAngel]

CH.94 Guilty Pleasure

Costa and Officer Palmer stared at Criss waiting for his response. However, Criss remained silent he knew what to say but he didn’t wanted to utter those words. “Criss for once in your life stop thinking about yourself and think about others…this is your brother we’re talking about, he’s no stranger” Palmer exclaimed. Criss knew that Palmer was right. He then turn to look at Costa who only gave him a sad look. “Can I think about this?” Criss asked desperately. “For god’s sake Criss this is no brainer. Like Palmer said we’re talking about JD here, OUR brother…are you going to sacrifice our brother’s life in jail for your bank robbery pleasure?” Costa replied a bit angry. “I know this is about our brother, my brother JD!” Criss replied with such strong emotion. “Then? Why is it so hard for you to leave the bank robbery business? What would happen if your son were to be in JD’s place? Would you still be hesitating about leaving this bank business?” Costa remarked. “Of course not I would give my life away for my son” Criss answered dramatically. “Then why not do it for your brother? Who all this time he’s been helping you hide your dark secret from mom and family members?” Costa continued saying. “Costa is right you know. I hate to say this but Criss, I think you had your time of satisfaction living in the fast lane for many years now. And you didn’t enjoy it alone. You had the love of your life by your side helping you. Criss, maybe you like to rob banks because like you once told me back in Italy that you liked helping sick kids from an orphanage here in France or that maybe you like robbing banks because you like the high action, the adrenaline running through your veins, living the crazy adventurous life or maybe both. But I think that when family is involved in all this, your family has to be your main priority not your guilty pleasure” Palmer said as he were to be one of the best counselors in the world.

Criss leaned back in his chair for a moment as he let his mind traveled back in time. He close his eyes for a moment and in a matter of seconds he watched his life passed by like screen shots. He saw the first time he met Liliana, their first kiss, their first time making love. He saw the last time he saw her in court back in Italy and how he told her how he hated her. He saw when he first met his son Christopher, the first time he put him to sleep. And overall, he saw Liliana and his son cry for the last time when he got in a fight with JD in the production office. He quickly opened his eyes and leaned forward as he put his arm on top of the table and proceeded in grabbing his mouth. Suddenly tears began to fall down his face. Costa saw how his brother was hurting. He could see how his heart was dying slowly in front of him. Palmer just watched without saying a word. Criss opened his mouth as if he were to speak, but couldn’t say a word. Costa was about to say something but Palmer signaled him that it wasn’t the time to make a statement.

Suddenly Criss broke the silence, “I…made a mistake in not taking my family into consideration. I was blinded by my selfishness. It didn’t let me see anyone else but myself. I…retired from magic thinking that I was coming back to my old life. But that wasn’t the case. Everything had changed. Now that I think about it. This isn’t the life I wanted. Because of my stupid actions, I lost my beautiful girl, my son, my brother’s trust, my fans. Overall, I lost my whole life” Criss explained as tears continued to fall. “But is not late Criss, you can still have your life back” Costa suggested. “That’s impossible” Criss said as he looked at Costa.

“No is not. Criss everyone makes mistakes and everyone deserves a second change don’t you think. Look, you may say that you’re selfish but hey, look what you’re doing. Your contacted Palmer so he could help JD, you robbed banks to help all those kids in need. When you were doing your Believe show and you were sick, I remember how many times JD told you to cancel it, but you didn’t wanted to because you didn’t wanted to disappoint your fans…that’s not being selfish at all” Costa remarked as he patted Criss’ back. “I guess if you wanna see your whole family again…you need to leave all this and go back to the States” Palmer said with a smile. Criss smiled back and wiped his eyes. “You’re right..I do miss my family and my son and my girl” Criss replied as Costa and Palmer looked at each other and smiled. “Ok, I accept. I will stop robbing banks for once and for all because I wanna see my family back. I wanna see my little boy’s smile” Criss remarked with a good attitude. “That’s all I needed to hear Criss. If everything goes right I will have your brother out of jail tonight and not only that but…I will once again clear your criminal record” Palmer said with a grin.

[DeppAngel]

CH. 95 Suspects at Large

That morning Costa and Criss said goodbye to Officer Palmer and hope that everything will go according to plan. Then they decided to go back to the hotel and wait for Palmer’s news about JD. Night had arrived to France and both Criss and Costa were more than nervous because they weren’t getting any answers from Palmer. “I hope he can really get JD out of there” Costa replied as he sat on the bed. “Don’t worry I have high hopes that he will…Palmer is a good person” Criss exclaimed. Another hour had passed and still no news from Palmer, Costa started to get worried. “Relax Costa, why don’t you watch some TV so you can clear your head for a while” Criss said as he turn the TV on. “But I don’t know any French” Costa replied. “Well take this time to learn some new French words, like that you will spend your time wisely” Criss said as he headed to the restroom.

As Criss washed his hands he heard Costa scream. He quickly got out of the restroom and headed back to the room. “What? What happen?” Criss said concerned. “It’s Palmer, he’s on TV” Costa said surprised. Criss looked over at the TV. “Put the volume up” Criss said.

"I want to clarify to everyone out there that the police had caught the wrong person. Me being one of the main Detectives of the Interpol, I clarify to all of you that this man that you see here beside me. ( focuses the camera on JD) is not a bank robber. We did a fingerprint DNA and he doesn’t match the fingerprints we had found in last bank robbery scenes. On the other hand, I want to clarify another rumor. As many bank robberies continued thought out the country, many police man and detectives came to the conclusion that the suspect was none other Criss Angel a man that use to terrorize all Europe about 5-6 years ago. I want to say that is not him the one committing these robberies. The Interpol is still working and is coming closer to the real suspect. I thank you all for your time, that’s all I have to say” Palmer said as went down the podium and took JD with him. Criss and Costa looked at each other speechless.

[DeppAngel]

Ch. 96

Camera flashes and thousands of questions bursted from the media press as Palmer took JD by his side and started waking back inside the Police station. One of the reporters shouted JD's name making this one turn his head to see who had said that. "Don't pay attention to them, keep your head straight" Palmer remarked making JD just stared at him for awhile. As they made their way inside the station away from all the commotion, JD was about to talk when suddenly was interrupted by a voice. "Detective Palmer, can I have a minute?" A man said. "sure" Palmer replied. " Francis, Pierre take him away" Palmer ordered as he pointed to JD. "Where are you taking me?" JD shouted worriedly. Palmer just glanced at him but didn't reply to his question. "Palmer I'm innocent, you just said it" JD continued to shout as the officers proceeded in taking him away.

JD began to get more scared. He didn't know what they were going to do to him. He thought for a moment in trying to make a run for it. But it was going to be stupid and useless for the reason that he was inside of a police station. The officers finally arrive to a door. "This is it...I'm dead" JD though to himself. As one of the officers proceeded to open the door, JD closed his eyes and imagined the worse. "Get in" one of the officers said to JD. He then opened his eyes and saw that they were in the back alley of the police station and in front of him was a black SUV with the door open waiting for him. JD had no other way but to follow the orders. He sat there without making any noise still handcuffed. The two officers remained outside. Minutes later the door opened making JD startled a bit. In came Detective Palmer. "Ok lets go" Palmer said to the driver. As the SUV started to move, Palmer then looked at JD and noticed that he still had the handcuffs on. "Those damn officers, they didn't take your handcuffs off" Palmer said a bit annoyed as he proceeded to uncuff him. "There... much better huh?" Palmer said.

"Where are you taking me?" JD asked still worried. Palmer gave him a small grin. "Where else, with your brothers" Palmer replied. "My..my brothers? Costa and..and..."
"Yes Costa AND Criss!" Palmer stated. "Look JD all I can say is that yeah, your brother Criss made some terrible mistakes in life. After all, he is human. He was the one who contacted me to help you get out of jail" Palmer continued to say. JD looked over at Palmer surprised, " He did!?" he said a bit shocked. " Yes! he did. you're his brother and of course he cares for you. He wasn't going to leave you locked down. I guess you have to understand that Criss came back to robbing banks because maybe he was still finding himself. Maybe he though that that was his life. But he never thought that he was going to meet Liliana and eventually fall in love with her" Palmer remarked. JD just kept listening to him. "I just miss the old Criss, that's all. I miss the guy full of charm and passionate for magic. When we used to live back in the Luxor in Vegas. It would make me laugh every time his son run away from him. And Criss would start chasing him around the halls" JD said with a smile as he remembered those memories. "Well, I guess you will see that old Criss back" Palmer remarked. "What? how do you know?" JD asked. "I don't want to ruin it. So why don't you ask him yourself" Palmer replied as the SUV became to a stop in front of a building.

[DeppAngel]

Ch. 97 The ride begins now

JD walked up the stairs of the hotel as Palmer fallowed him behind. Only silence surrounded them. JD was excited and then again scared to see Criss again. He didn't know how Criss was going to react. JD and Palmer reached the room and stood there for a moment. " Are you ready?" Palmer asked as he looked at JD. " I don't know I'm a bit scared" JD responded a little bit embarrassed as he looked down at the floor. " It's normal for you to feel that way. Don't worry everything will be alright" Palmer assured him as he put his hand on his shoulder and gave him a warm smile. JD smiled back and took a deep breath. He looked at the door and without thinking it twice he knock on the door. His heart was racing like a horse. "Relax" Palmer whispered to him as they both waited for the door to be open. Suddenly the door swung open.

" Oh my god JD!!! your here!" Costa said as he saw JD and went straight to hug him. "Yeah, I'm free at last" JD said with a big smile on his face. Palmer just smiled. "Come on in" Costa said to both of them when he broke up the hug. They went inside and they all sat on the living room. Palmer looked around as he were looking for someone. He cleared his voice for a moment, " Ummm..where is..Criss?" Palmer said a bit concerned. "Oh he went for a walk. He said he wasn't feeling very well...he said he was coming back" Costa replied. " I hope he does!" Palmer said. They all looked at each other in silence.

Suddenly Palmer broke the ice, " so what are you guys doing after this?". Costa and JD looked at each other. " We're getting out of here as soon as possible" JD said in a childish way. Palmer laughed. "Well, I don't judge you. after all that you been through. I would get away from here too" Palmer said. "Yeah" Costa replied with a small laugh. "Umm how long ago did Criss left? If you don't mind me asking?" Palmer said to Costa. "He left like 40 minutes ago. So I guess he should be getting back any minute" he said as he looked at the window. In that moment they heard the door open and in came Criss. They all looked at him except JD. Criss became to feel uneasy but had to leave the awkwardness for another moment. "Hey man!" Criss said as he started walking toward JD. JD looked up surprised and rose from the couch. Criss went straight to hug him and JD did the same. "I'm sorry man. Could you ever forgive me?" Criss said as tears rolled down his face. "I've aready have. No hard feelings little brother!" JD remarked with tears on his eyes too. Palmer looked at Costa and smiled. "Well, what are you waiting for? Get in there!" Palmer order Costa, who then got up from the couch and went to hug Criss and JD. "That's what Im talking about!" Palmer replied with happiness. When they broke the hug they all sat down again. "Well Criss I guess your life here in Europe came to its final end!" Palmer said. "Yeah" Criss replied a bit sad. "Don't worry Criss. your not alone, you have your family here that supports you" Costa replied. Criss nodded. "Yeah you're right. I guess now what I need to do is go find Liliana!" he said excited. "That's right. Well I think my job here is done. You all have a safe flight back to the states" Palmer said as he got up from the couch and hug everyone. When it came the time to hug Criss, he looked at him on the eye and said firmly, " You behave now. Be a good boy". Criss chuckled. "With my brothers watching me. I wont break the rules". Palmer patter him on the back. "I hope so. Take care of yourself Criss. Have a good life. Hope I see you soon" Palmer said and walked back to the door. As he opened the door he looked back at everyone and said, "goodbye guys. Take care" and walked out.

****
"Are you sure this is a good idea?" Criss said as he looked through the car window. "Yes, trust me!" JD said as he got out of the car. "I don't know I'm a bit scared" Criss said. JD peeked inside the car. "Trust me. Now get out of the car" he said. Criss hesitated a bit but finally stepped out. "Why don't we let Costa go first" Criss said. "Nah, that's no surprise then" Costa remarked as he took the baggages of out the taxi's trunk. "Come on Criss, you can do it" JD said with a smile. Criss sighed "Ok..." he said as he took off his sun glasses and started to walk. Costa and JD fallowed behind. Criss stood still for a moment and took a deep breath. " Ok...here we go" he said and knock on the door. Seconds later the door swung open. " Oh my god!!! Christopher, My Christopher!!!". " Hi mom!" Criss responded with tears down his face.

[DeppAngel]

CH. 98 The battle begins now

Criss and his brothers were talking on the living room when Dimitra come out of the kitchen with hot chocolate. "Here you go guys" she said while she put the tray on top of the center table. "Thanks mom, you made chocolate my favorite" Criss replied with a big smiled on his face as he grabbed a cup. Dimitra sat next to Criss. " So you guys went to Europe to find him?" Dimitra asked Costa and JD who were enjoying their drinks. They looked at each other for a second and JD finally spoke up, "Yes mom, and we didn't wanted to tell you because we wanted to give you a surprise" "and you sure did!" Dimitra said while she put her arm around Criss. Criss looked at his mom with soft eyes, "Mom, please forgive me for what I've done. You don't deserve this. I know I have put you through a lot. I guess all this time I was thinking about me, I was being selfish and not thinking about what matters most to me, you guys: my family!" Criss said as he started to tear up. Dimitra caressed his face, "Oh my boy my little boy. You know I love you and all I care for you is to be happy. I don't care if you live in France, China or Japan as long as you're happy, I will be happy too. I'm not gonna interrogate you about your past. The past is gone, what matters now is the present, and I'm glad to have you here with me again" Dimitra said while Criss hugged her. JD and Costa got up from the couch and went to hug their brother and their mom. "I'm just happy we're all here" Costa said. While everyone smiled.

In that moment the door opened and in came Lynn and Dimi. "Oh my god uncle Criss?!!" she said with surprise. Criss looked around and saw her. "Hey, where is my favorite niece?!!" he said with a big smile on his face. Dimi went straight to hug him. "Uncle I'm so glad your back. Does this mean you're now gonna stay for good? or are you leaving again?" Dimi asked kind of sad. "Can I tell you a secret?" Criss asked her while Dimi nodded her head. Criss leaned over her and whispered in her ear. "I'm staying for good!" Dimi jumped up and down and hug Criss again. "I'm so glad you are!" she said. Criss then greeted Lynn. "Welcome back Christopher" Lynn said with a smile. "Thanks Lynn I'm glad to see you again"

Everyone got quiet for a moment. "Ok, who's hungry?" Dimitra said breaking the ice. "I am" everyone said cheerfully. "Great so I'll prepare some lunch" Dimitra replied. "I'll help you" Lynn said as she followed her into the kitchen. Costa and JD followed them as well. "Uncle Criss can I show you something I made is in my room" Dimi said grabbing Criss' hand and pulling him up stairs. Criss just smiled. When they got to her room Criss sat on her bed and waited for Dimi to show her what she made. She went into her closet and come out and sat on the bed too. She put on top of the bed what appear to be like an album. The cover was a picture of water, it look like a stream and in the middle it said <PURE LOVE>. Criss looked at it kind of curious. "What is it? he asked looking at Dimi. "Open it" Dimi ordered with a smirk on her face. Criss grabbed it, he hesitated a bit, looked at Dimi again but finally opened it. He started flipping every page in silence. "What is this?" he said in a whisper. "Than uncle Criss..that is pure love, true love" Dimi replied. Suddenly Criss began to cry.

Dimi looked at his uncle who was contemplating the work of art she had done. "I've been working on it for a long time" Dimi stated as she put her hand on Criss' shoulder. Criss wiped his tears away and looked at his niece. "But how did you get so many pictures?" he asked curious. "Ohh that was no problem, my gradma helped me. I know most of the pictures are from paparazzi but what counts is that you guys are in it" she replied with a big smile on her face.

<Pure Love>, the project that Dimi embarked since she last saw Criss and Liliana was an album or more like a scrap book fulled of quotes and photos of Criss with Liliana and their son. Dimi decided to do such thing because she knew that one day she will see Criss or Liliana again. "Do you like it?" she asked as she played with her hair. Criss gave a small smiled. "Do i like it?..I love it! Thank you sweetheart" he replied as he hugged her and gave her a kiss on the head. "I was afraid. you might not like it?" Dimi stated with a nervous chuckle. " Are you kidding I love it" Criss said with a smile but then that smile faded away. Dimi looked at him, she hesitated a bit but spoke up. "you miss her huh?" Criss rose his head slowly until his eyes met with Dimi. "I do" he said as his eyes started to get watery.

Dimi reached for him and hugged him. "I know that you will be back with her, I just know. you guys are meant to be together" she said trying to comfort her uncle. Criss broke the hug and opened the album again. He came across the fist page and there, to his surprise was the picture of Liliana and him that they took back in Switzerland. "This is the picture that I found in my room back in vegas when I saw Liliana again" Criss though to himself. The picture was all wrinkled, and why wouldn't it be. He had wrinkled the picture and threw it away but at the end kept it in his wallet. "Dimi...ummm where did you got this picture?" he asked surprised. "My grandma gave it to me..she said that the maid who was cleaning your room when you left to Europe, found it and gave it to grandma, and she kept it." Dimi replied confident. Criss sighed out of relief. "That's great. I though I was never gonna find it. I always kept it on my wallet. I guess it felt down when I was getting my stuff. But I'm glad you have it" he said as he stared at it. "You really love that pic huh?" Dimi asked kind of curious.

Criss smiled as he remembered the past. "Yeah, you know why?" he asked her. Dimi nodded her head. "Because this was the first picture we took together as a couple. I had declared my love to her two days ago in a little plaza back in Switzerland." he stated happily as he remember that special moment. "Awww that's so cute" Dimi remarked as she too look at the picture. "Do you want me to tell you what happen?" Criss asked his niece. "Oh if you please" Dimi replied excited.

"Well, she had asked me if we could go out and have fun because we had been looked up in the apartment for a while now. I could see that she was really bored and you know back then, she was young and wanted to have fun. She's still young eeh (Criss and Dimi laugh) so we went out. We had bought some stuff and we were hungry. We were in that little plaza, so I decided to go put the bags back in the car so we could go eat. She decided to wait for me right there. When I got back from the car. I saw her talking to this guy. I quickly rush towards her. When I got there the guy had already left. I asked who he was, and she told me that he had given her his number to go out. She said that she was gonna call him to go out on a date" Criss said as he remember.

"Oh my god and what happen?" Dimi asked all excited. "Well, me being Criss. you know how I am. I told her that she wasn't going to see him again. She asked for an explanation. I, of course didn't say anything..I was walking away from her and suddenly she said it:..you're jealous?" Dimi's eyes widen as she gasped, "and then what happen?" she asked. "Well, when I turn around to see her, I saw that she was walking away on the opposite direction, so I rush to her and kissed her!!...When we broke up the kiss I stared at her beautiful maroon eyes and said" does that answer your question? and well the rest is history" Criss finish saying as he touched his lips remembering that wonderful kiss. "Awww that's so cute..it sounds like a scene from a romantic movie" Dimi said. Criss laughed.

In that moment a knock came to the door. "Hey what are you guys doing?" Dimitra asked as she opened the door. "Oh we're just talking" Dimi said as she looked at Criss. "Well I came to say that lunch is ready, we're all waiting for you two" Dimitra said as she walked out of the room. "Ok, we're coming" Criss said as he rose from the bed and Dimi too. Dimitra agreed and walked down stairs. "Thanks again for this wonderful thing that you done"Criss told Dimi as he hugged her again. "Is nothing uncle, I did it with love. I have to thank you for sharing your past with me" she said happily. "My pleasure..ok lets go eat before mom yells at us" Criss said making Dimi laugh. As Criss was closing the door he saw the album resting on the bed. "I'm getting you back Liliana, I'm getting you back" he thought and close the door.