“Steve.” Oscar called as he ran down the hall. “Any news yet?”

“Not yet Oscar. I didn’t know it took so long to have a baby.”

“Yea it can take a while sometimes. It seemed like it took forever when Julie had the twins…”

“Twins?” Steve was shocked

“I don’t think you have to worry about that.” Oscar laughed. “Rudy would have seen that a long time ago. Besides it’s going to be bad enough with two Steve Austins I don’t think we need a third.” Oscar continued to laugh.

“Yea I guess you’re right. Speaking of twins…”

“They are at home, Minnie is watching them. And Dan is in school.”

The door swung open and Rudy stepped out. Steve ran over to him. “Well Rudy how are they? Jaime and our son?”

Rudy looked from Steve to Oscar and then back to Steve. “I’m sorry Steve. I did everything I could.” Rudy’s face was grim.

“What do you mean you did everything you could? I want to see my wife and son.”

“I don’t know how to tell you this Steve….”

“Tell me, tell me what?” Steve demanded.

Oscar stood and watched the scene play out. He began to think he was in some late night movie with a horrible ending.

“Steve the baby was still born.” Rudy began again.

“What about Jaime?” Steve demanded again

“The strain was too much for her. I …”

“No Rudy. No way, you’re not trying to tell me you lost them both?”

Slowly Rudy nodded his head. “I’m so sorry Steve. I can’t begin to tell you how sorry I am.” Rudy was crying himself.

Steve stood in stunned silence. “I can’t believe it.” He repeated over and over again. “I just can’t believe it.”

After his initial shock wore off Oscar was able to help Rudy get Steve to a chair. Steve sat staring into space. The only words he would say is that he couldn’t believe it.

Rudy turned to Oscar. “I have to give him something. He’s in shock right now. He should probably be in bed.”

“What do we do Rudy?” Oscar sat in the chair beside his friend. “Do something for him.”

“I will. Just sit with him for a moment. I’m going to go get a gurney. I’ll keep him here for several days. I don’t think he’s going to be able to take care of himself for quite a while.”

Oscar continued to sit with Steve. Rudy soon arrived with a gurney. “We’ll put him in the room down the hall.” Rudy indicated pointing to the room. “Can you help me get him on the gurney here?”

“Sure Rudy.” Oscar assisted Rudy in getting Steve on the gurney and Rudy wheeled in to the room.

Steve was completely unaware of what was going on. Rudy laid him on the bed then hooked him up to I V’s to keep his strength up.

That night a dinner Oscar explained what had happened to the kids.

“How is Steve doing?” Dan asked concern in his voice.

“He’s not doing very good right now Dan. Rudy is very worried about him.”

“I just wish there were something we could do.” Danny wondered.

“Well don’t try anything right now. Steve is pretty upset.” Oscar told him.

“What’s Rudy doing for him?” Dan questioned.

“Everything that can be done. Rudy says he’s in shock right now.” Oscar continued.

“Well, I can understand that.” Danny surmised.

Marc turned to him “But Steve’s going to be all right isn’t he?” Marc wanted to know.

“To be real honest Marc, I really don’t know.” Oscar explained. “Why don’t you and your brothers go on up and get ready for bed. I’ll be up in just a bit. I have a few calls to make. I need to arrange for Minnie to watch the three of you during the day. I’m not going to worry about your schooling you are far enough ahead It won’t hurt these last couple of weeks.”

The twins took Joey and went on upstairs to their rooms.

“I assume Rudy won’t be home tonight?” Dan speculated.

“No Dan. He’s staying with Steve. I’m going to have Russ bring you straight home for a while anyway. Rudy is going to be to busy working with Steve to get him back up to par.”

“Yea sure dad. I understand. I’m going to get ready for bed myself. Give you some privacy to make your calls. I have a lot of homework anyway. We have finals this week.”

“Ok Dan thanks.” Oscar sighed. Dan headed upstairs, and Oscar went into his office. He made arrangements for Minnie to take care of the boys till further notice.

The next day Oscar headed straight for Rudy’s office when he got to the OSI “How is he today Rudy?” Oscar wondered.

“He’s doing better I think” Rudy replied.

“You think?” Oscar gave him stern look.

“It is really outside of my realm” Rudy stipulated. “I am not real sure how to approach it.” He continued. “What I meant was he ate some of his breakfast. I feel that’s a good sign.”

“So what do we do Rudy. I mean do we? I mean should we make the arrangements. Or do we wait for Steve?”

“Let’s give him a few more days. We need to at least let the initial shock wear off.” Rudy suggested. “How about you how are you holding up?”

“I’m getting used to it I guess. I find it a little hard to believe.” Oscar replied softly. “Can I see Steve?”

“Yea sure go on in. Steve was awake the last I checked anyway.”

Oscar stepped into Steve’s room. “Hi pal, how are you doing?” Oscar watched him closely.

“I’m not sure yet. I’m still finding it hard to believe. I get this feeling that I’m going to wake up and this whole thing will not have happened.”

“Unfortunately that’s not going to be the case.” Oscar spoke slowly.

“Yea.” Steve sighed. “I’m sure you’re right.” He set his head back on the pillow tears flowed down his checks. “Oscar I would like to be alone right now.”

“Sure Steve.” Oscar said leaving the room.

Rudy was waiting when he came out. “Well. Did he say anything?”

“No not really.” Oscar replied. “He is really depressed.”

“Yea, I know. I’m afraid I might have to call in someone whose field this falls under.” Rudy explained

“You mean a psychiatrist?” Oscar asked

Rudy nodded. “Yea that’s what I’m saying. He may need professional help.”

“Well what ever he needs we’ll get.” Oscar assured.

“Good, then I’ll start looking for someone.” Rudy stated. “You realize he may never be the same Oscar?”

Oscar slowly nodded. “He’s not the same right now.” Oscar surmised.

“Yea I know.” Rudy headed into Steve’s room “I’ll see you later Oscar.”

Oscar headed for his own office.

“Hi Steve.” Rudy said as he entered his room. “How are you feeling this afternoon?”

“I’m ok, I guess.” Steve sighed. He didn’t turn in Rudy’s direction He just stared blankly out the window.

“They are bringing your lunch soon. Is there anything special you would like?”

“Yea there is Rudy. I would like my wife and son.” Steve gave Rudy a slight glance and then was gone again. “Can you get that for me Doc?”

“I wish I could Steve. I really wish I could.” Rudy gave Steve an affectionate pat on the shoulder.

“Go away Rudy. I want to be alone.” Steve whispered so softly Rudy could hardly hear him.

“Rudy?” Oscar asked later. “What if I had Marc talk to him maybe Steve would respond. You know how he feels about Marc?”

“And if he doesn’t?” Rudy speculated. “How would it affect Marc?”

“Yea, I guess you’re right.” Oscar agreed. “Marc is worried about him.”

“We are all worried about him.” Rudy stated. “I just don’t think it would be a good idea. Not right now anyway.”

Smdmsmdmsmmdmsmdm Three days later Steve was doing a little better. Oscar and Rudy met outside his room before they entered.

“Are you sure he’s ready to go home today?” Oscar asked.

“No. He’s not ready to go to his own home. I don’t think he’s ready for a move like that.” Rudy told him.

“But you said he was going ‘home’ today.” Oscar eyed Rudy suspiciously.

“I thought he could stay at our place for a while.” Rudy admitted.

“Of course he can stay.” Oscar said. "Maybe it will do him some good. What about the psychiatrist?” Oscar wondered.

“I found one. He’ll start working with Steve next week.” Rudy replied.

“That’s good. I hope he can help.” Oscar assumed.

“I think he’ll be able to.” Rudy assured.

“Well Steve how does it feel to get out and about?” Rudy asked as he drove Steve to Oscar’s house in Steve’s car. He had ridden with Oscar that morning so Steve would have his own car at Oscar’s.

“I feel ok Doc.” Steve still wouldn’t look at him.

Steve entered Oscar’s house. “Hey pal glad to have you staying with us. Marc really wants to see you if you feel up to it. If not I can hold him off.”

“No need to do that. I would love to see Marc as well.” Steve went up to the twin’s room

“Hey partner. How are you?”

“I’m ok Steve." Marc said quietly. "How are you Steve?”

“I’m ok.” Steve said. He spent the rest of the night in the twin’s room talking to the twins. He really didn't feel like adult conversation.

Late that night Steve slipped into the twin’s room. He gently lifted Marc out of bed hoping not to wake him. He carried him downstairs and out the front door. He placed him on the backseat oh his car and buckled him with the seatbelts. Then he got in the car and drove off.

Before leaving DC Steve stopped by an ATM and withdrew all of his money. As much as the machine would allow

Steve drove for several hours as Marc continued to sleep. Finally at around five in the morning Steve stopped at a hotel. He paid cash for the room and checked in as Steve Anderson and son.

He pulled into the parking stall outside the room in Cleveland Ohio. He carried the still sleeping Marc into the hotel room and gently laid him on the bed. Steve didn’t sleep much. He watched Marc waiting for him to wake up.

At around seven Marc began to wake up. He turned to Steve. “Where are we?” He wondered

“We’re in a hotel in Ohio.” Steve began to explain.

“Why?” Marc asked.

“Marc. I have some terrible news.” Steve started again. The other night…”

“The other night?” Marc interrupted

“Just listen to me son.” Steve once again started “The other night there was a fire at your house.”

“A fire?” Marc didn’t believe him.

“Rudy was afraid you would block it out. Maybe I acted to quickly in bringing you here.” Steve spoke slowly. “Marc, I guess we are in the same boat. I lost my wife and son and you lost your dad and brothers.” Steve told him

‘No! No, no Marc cried.”

Steve slowly nodded. “Yes Marc I’m afraid so. I’m so sorry son. If you want I can take you back to Rudy, you can stay with him instead of me. Do you want that?”

Marc shook his head. “I want to be with you. Marc was still crying. I just can’t believe it.” Marc continued to cry.

“I know Marc it’s hard to believe. But it’s just you and me. Your dad made arrangements for me to take care of you and your brothers if anything happened to him.”

“So why are we in Ohio?” Marc asked. He still didn’t believe Steve but after what Steve had been through, Marc decided it wouldn’t hurt to play along.

“I thought we would get a fresh start.” Steve explained. We are moving to Colorado. I thought we would buy a ranch out there. You’d like that wouldn’t you. You can have a horse. In fact I thought we would open up a business with horse back riding. Would you like that?”

Marc nodded. “I guess so Steve. As long as we’re together I guess it really doesn’t matter.

“Ok then Let’s get back in the car. We still have a long drive ahead of us. By the way son it’s ok if you call me dad. I guess I am your father now.” Steve told him.

“Steve. I mean dad. Why don’t we just fly out?” Marc wanted to know.

“Well then I would miss all this time I get to spend with you.” Steve explained. “Come on I think there is a restaurant across the street. Why don’t we go get some breakfast?”

“Sounds great Steve. I’m hungry.” Marc looked around. “I don’t have any clothes though.”

“They were in the fire. Listen you stay here. I’ll go grab us something, then later I’ll take you shopping and we’ll buy you some new. While I’m gone you might as well take a shower.”

“Sounds good. I will.” Marc stated.

Steve headed for the restaurant across the street he noticed there was a department store in a small strip mall. He walked into the restaurant and ordered breakfast for the two of them. The he went to the store and bought Marc some new clothes. Just a couple of pairs of jeans, shirts, and anything else.”

In the hotel room Marc finished his shower. ‘I better call home and tell dad I’m with Steve and I’m all right. He had already tried ‘talking’ to Matt but had failed ‘Must be out of range’ Marc thought. He picked up the phone he carefully dialed his area code and then phone number.

“I’m sorry.’ The operator said. “Your call cannot be completed as dialed.”

“Huh” Marc said. “Then he read the sign just above the phone. ‘To make long distance calls requires a ten dollar deposit, thank you.’

Marc replaced the phone on the cradle and waited for Steve to return.

“Hey partner Throw these on and I’ll set breakfast up.” Steve tossed him the bag. “We’ll get more later, but this should do for now.”

“Yea sure ok dad.” Marc took the bag and went back in to the bathroom to change

Steve set breakfast up at the table that was in the room “Hey you look much better.” Steve commented when Marc emerged “Come on over here I have breakfast all ready for you. I know you like bacon and eggs.”

“Yea I’m starved too.”

Back at Oscar’s house Oscar and company were just waking up. Oscar and Dan were in the kitchen when Matt came in.

“Matt I was hoping you would sleep in this morning. You and Marc were up pretty late last night.” Oscar said when Matt entered the kitchen.

“I was just looking for Marc. I was hoping he was down here.” Matt stated. “I tried ‘talking’ to him but he doesn’t answer.” Matt continued.

“Marc’s not upstairs Matt?” Oscar looked worried.

Matt shook his head. “No he’s not. I’m kind of worried about him.”

“Did you try the bathroom?” Oscar wondered.

“I’ve looked everywhere dad. Steve’s not in his room either.”

“Well that explains it. Steve and Marc probably went for a walk or something.” Oscar tried to rationalize.

“But that doesn’t explain why he won’t answer me.” Matt argued.

“How many times has Marc ‘called’ you and you haven’t answered?” Oscar eyed him sternly.

“Yea I guess you’re right. He and Steve are probably talking.” Matt surmised.

“I’m glad Steve has a lot to talk about.” Oscar muttered as Matt ran upstairs.

“Morning Oscar.” Rudy said coming from his room. “Steve up yet?”

“He must be Matt said Steve and Marc aren’t upstairs. So I figured they must have gone for a walk or something.”

“Well at least he’s talking to somebody.” Rudy noted.

“That’s what I thought. You ready Dan? Rudy you said you were staying home with Steve today?

“Yea Oscar I don’t think he should be left alone especially with the kids.”

Dan grabbed his backpack and they headed out the door.

Within seconds Oscar was back inside. “Rudy. Steve’s car is gone.”

Smdmsmdmsmdmsmdm “So how was it Marc? Pretty good?” Steve asked when they finished breakfast.

“Yea it wasn’t to bad.” Marc commented.

“Good we need to head out again. I thought we would make a vacation out of it. How does that sound son?”

“Ok I guess so dad. But what about the…you know the funerals I mean for my dad and brothers.”

“I was hoping I wouldn’t have to tell you this. Marc. Son there was nothing left to bury. I tell you what. When we get to Colorado we’ll have our own little memorial service, ok?”

“Yea sure St… dad..” Marc helped him clean up their breakfast mess and they got back in the car and continued on.

Marc still refused to believe that anything had happened to his dad and brothers. He knew something was wrong with Steve, but couldn’t quite put his finger on it. ‘I know it has something to do with Jaime and the baby.’ He thought to himself ‘Maybe Steve is just very sad right now and needs some time by himself. I’m glad he brought me along though.’

“So partner what should we do today?” Steve drove across the state of Ohio.

“I don’t know is there anything to see along the way?”

“I’m not sure. We’ll stop at a rest area they always have information like that.” Steve explained. Then he thought ‘But rest areas have park rangers in them As soon as Oscar finds out I took Marc…’ “We’ll figure something out Marc ok?”

“Do you have a map? what comes after Ohio?” Marc was already bored with driving.

“No I don’t I really don’t need one. We are on interstate eighty it will take us straight to Colorado. We might get one there.” Steve told him.

“I’m just bored.” Marc complained.

“Why don’t you play a game? Find the out of state plates. See how many other states are on the road?”

“Ok” Marc looked out the window and started keeping track of how many out of state plates there were.

At noon Steve pulled into a small town.

“What are we doing?” Marc asked.

“I think there is a drive-in we’ll grab something and hit the road again. I want to make Omaha by night fall.”

“Ok dad.” Marc sighed. The pulled into the parking lot of a small diner guess they drive in closed up.” Steve looked around. I really hate to waste the time.” He looked at Marc, ‘But I bet you hungry?”

“Yea I am.” Marc replied.

Steve still didn’t really want anyone to see the two of them together. He was sure Oscar had called out the troops by now.

“Listen you wait here. I’ll go get us a hamburger and we can get right back on the road. You stay in the car.”

“I will dad.” Marc sat in the back seat looking around.

Steve walked into the diner and placed his order to go.

“What do you mean gone. I told him he was not to drive because of the medicine I have him on.” Rudy related.

“Well it’s gone.” Oscar repeated. “I would assume Steve was the one driving.”

“Well it may not be a good situation. The medicine I have him on is to calm him down. It also makes you very tired.” Rudy warned.

“You mean he could fall asleep at the wheel?” Oscar sounded concerned.

“That could very well happen.” Rudy stated.

“Listen I’m going to take Dan to school I’ll see if I can see him along the way. In the mean time maybe he’ll come back.”

“Don’t count on it.” Rudy said as Oscar left with Danny

“Maybe Steve left a note or something.” Rudy said to Matt “Why don’t you help me. You will let me know if Marc contacts you?”

“Sure Rudy.” Matt answered.

‘Here come on.” Rudy said as they entered the guest room. They both stated looking for clues as to where Steve might have gone.

“Rudy what’s this?” Matt asked holding up a small baggie containing several pills.

“Well I guess I don’t have to worry about Steve falling asleep behind the wheel.” Rudy muttered.

Marc went on into his room.

When Oscar came home Rudy told him about his discovery. “He hasn’t been taking them.” Rudy reported.

“Is that a good thing, or a bad thing?” Oscar wanted to know.

“Well a little bit of both. I don’t have to worry about Steve driving, but his not taking the pills indicates he had this planned.” Rudy sighed.

“Planed?” Oscar quizzed.

“It means we wanted to leave.” Rudy tried to explain.

“You mean Steve ‘kidnapped’ Marc?”

Steve came out of the diner carrying sandwiches and drinks for the two of them “Can you eat your sandwich and drink without spilling? Steve asked.

“Sure dad I’m not a baby.” Marc replied.

“That’s good son.” Steve handed Marc his sandwich. They were back on the road. Marc continued to watch the cars out the back window.

‘I wish I could call dad. I bet he’s worried about me.’ Marc thought. “Maybe I’ll find a pay phone.’ He continued to think.

Steve watched him in the review mirror “You ok back there Marc?”

“Yea. I’m fine Steve.” Marc replied.

‘Maybe I shouldn’t have told him his brothers and Oscar were dead. But then on the other hand I can’t risk him trying to call. I’m the one who had to teach him about area codes.’ Steve chided himself.

“Marc. I know you feel sad about Oscar and your brothers.” Steve spoke softly to him.

“I can always stop and put you on a flight back to DC.” Steve said. “You could live with Rudy I suppose. Do you want to stay with me?”

‘Of course I do.” Marc told him. ‘Steve really needs a friend right now.’ Marc thought. I guess I’m it.’

“Ok then we’ll keep going.” Steve continued to drive “You’re sure you’re ok/”

“Yea I’m fine dad.” Marc said

“Ok then Colorado here we come. Just the two of us.”

“Yea dad, just the two of us.” Marc smiled. He was actually beginning to enjoy the whole thing. If only he could tell his dad he was all right.

They continued driving. “So Marc, what state has the most plates so far, and it can’t be Ohio.”

“I don’t know I guess Illinois” Marc replied.

“Ok. Do you like the game son?” Steve asked.

“Yea I guess so.”

“I think ‘kidnap’ is rather harsh.” Rudy stipulated. “Steve is pretty grief stricken right now…”

“He took my son Rudy. Without my permission I am assuming he crossed state lines too I call that kidnapping.” Oscar snorted.

“Well I don’t Here’s what I think happened. Steve needed to get away for a few days. You know how close he is to Marc. I’m sure he didn’t want to leave Marc behind to worry so he took him with him.”

“You think he’ll call?” Oscar asked.

“I’d almost bet on it. I’m sure he won’t tell you where he is, but he’ll call.” Rudy assured.

“What should we do? Get out an APB?” Oscar asked.

“I don’t think that will be necessary Oscar I have a feeling Steve will be calling sooner than he wants to.”

“Why Rudy?” Oscar wondered.

“Because it’s time for Marc to have his power pack changed in just a few days.”

“Does Steve know about that?” Oscar looked at him.

“No he doesn’t, but he’ll find out soon enough.” Rudy told him.

“So what we just wait?” Oscar wondered.

“Yea I guess.” Rudy said. “There may be another problem.” Rudy stated.

“What’s that?” Oscar asked.

“That Steve may actually believe that Marc is his son.” Rudy spoke slowly.

By dinner Steve and Marc had reached their goal. Again Steve checked into the hotel this time using a different name. He checked in as Steve Merit and son.

Again he parked in the stall in front of their room “Come on Marc Let’s go check the room out then we’ll go shopping for some clothes, and then we’ll grab something for dinner.”

“Yea, sure ok dad.” Marc sighed.

“Marc if you want to go back home you’re more than welcome. I can go on without you. I’m not planning on going back to Washington. Ever! Now, are you with me?”

Marc nodded and got out of the car. “Yea dad I’m with you. But why don’t you want to go back?”

“First of all I can’t live in that house again.” Steve started. “Second I really don’t feel like going on missions anymore. I don’t know who’s going to take your father’s place at the OSI but I’m sure he’ll send me on missions. I just don’t feel like doing that anymore. That’s one of the reasons I brought you with me. I didn’t want him to send you.

“I don’t want that to happen just yet anyway.” Marc said as they got back in the car after they had checked out the room.

“Same here. Now I think I saw a mall when we first came into town. Shall we get you some new clothes?”

Marc nodded. “Yea dad.” Marc stated.

Smdmsamdmsmd “What are you saying Rudy? Steve may…”

“Steve may have disillusioned himself into believe Marc is actually his son.” Rudy finished.

“Is that possible?” Oscar asked

“Yea. Actually, in the state he’s in, anything is possible.” Rudy went on.”

Oscar reached for the phone.

“Who are you calling?” Rudy almost demanded.

“Just Russ, Maybe he can locate Steve and we won’t have to bring law enforcement into this.

At the mall Marc and Steve were busy buying Marc a bunch of new clothes.

“How do you like this son?” Steve asked holding up different shirts.”

“I like that one dad.” Marc would point to his favorite.

“It is so nice to see a father and son shopping together.” The sales clerk noted as she rung up the sale.”

“Yea it does make for such a nice change.” He paid for the clothes and the two of them headed back to the hotel to drop everything off before going to dinner.

“Russ. I would rather not bring law enforcement into this. But I want to find them. I just want to make sure Marc is all right. I mean I know Steve would never hurt him, but Steve really isn’t of a rational mind right now. I mean if he’s capable of kidnapping Marc, what else is he capable of?”

“I’ll do my best Oscar. Do you have anything for me to go on?” Russ wondered.

“No, not really. I don’t even know if they are still in the country. I would assume they are I have checked the airport Steve never asked for clearance to take off anyway. And I’ve had the airports searched. Steve’s car isn’t there..”

“Have you put out an APB?” Russ asked.

“No I hope I don’t have to resort to that Russ.” Oscar sighed.

“I’ll start looking for them.” Russ headed out the door.

“After taking the clothes back to the hotel room. They went for dinner. Steve kept looking around to see if anyone was watching them. “You know Marc there are certain people who will not be happy we are gone.” Steve continued in his lie that Steve was actually beginning to believe Marc was his son.

“Yea I know.” Marc said looking across the table toward Steve.

“They’re going to have the police looking for us. I mean they are not just going to let us go. You know that.”

“I figured that. Is that why you keep looking around?” Marc questioned.

“Yea it is Marc I don’t want them to find us. Listen I’m glad you understand. I bought a bottle of hair dye. I’m going to dye your hair and mine tonight.”

“This is fun.” Marc proclaimed.

“I’m happy you like the idea. That’s why I haven’t shaved.” Steve explained rubbing his whiskers.

“I was wondering why.” Marc finished his dinner and the two of them left the diner.

They headed back to the hotel. “Listen. I’m going to do mine first. Then you can. While your doing that I’m going to get us a different car.”

Marc giggled. “I like this it’s fun.”

Steve took his shower first dyeing his hair from brown to a very deep black.

“That looks funny dad. My turn now.”

“Marc your hair is already dark. So I want you to bleach yours it will probably be almost white. I also want you to use this too. It will straighten you hair. Now I’ll be right back you just wash your hair”

Steve left the hotel and headed across the street. He rented a different car and planned to leave his in a vacant lot across the street from the rental agency.

“Any luck Russ?” Oscar asked hopefully.

Well it took a little time. But we discovered his car abandoned in Omaha.” Russ told him. “So going by that we are searching hotel records along interstate 80. That seems to be the path they are on.”

“I want you to find them Russ. I need Steve here. He needs us to. And I want my son back.”

The next day Steve and Marc reached their destination. “I have my eye on some property out here. I need to talk to the realtor. Will you behave yourself?”

“Yea dad I will.” Marc promised.

“Ok then little partner let’s go.” An hour later Steve and Marc sat in the realtors office. Steve was telling him about the property he was interested in.

“That’s a very good piece of property.” The realtor stated.

“I’d like to take a look at it.” Steve said.

“How bout your wife.” The realtor asked. “Will she join us?”

“No I’m afraid not. It’s just the boy and I. Right son?”

Marc nodded. “Right dad.” He smiled.

“Ok then if you will just come with me…” They drove out to the ranch that Steve was considering buying.

“I really like it. “We’ll take it!” Steve shouted.

“Very good. I’ll get the paper work going.”

“What do you think Marc?” Steve asked.

“I think it’s great dad.” Marc told him “When do we get to move in.”

The realtor smiled him “By the end of the week.” He said.

“Then we better find a hotel room for the next few days.”

“Yea ok. I’m getting a little tired of hotel rooms.” Marc complained.

“It’s just a matter of a couple of days son.” Steve promised.

“Before I let you go.” Steve turned to the realtor “Do you have any idea where we might be able to buy some horses?”

“I sure do. “ The realtor smiled.

“The boy wants a horse. I told him he could have one. We’ve always lived in the City.” Steve explained

The realtor gave them directions to a stable where they could buy their horses.

“I don’t know what kind of finance planning you have.” Steve began. “I’m planning jon opening up a horse back riding business.”

“Well then Mr. Anderson.” The stable owner said.

Marc quickly turned his head in Steve’s direction with a shocked look on his face.

‘I can’t very well give him my real name…’

Marc nodded.

The stable owner went on. “You’ve come to the right place. That’s what I’m in business for. To set people like you up in a business of their own.”

“Well should we get busy then?” Steve and the stable owner walked into his office Marc walked around the ranch admiring the horses.

“Marc!” Steve called.

“Right here dad.” Marc ran up to him. “Are we ready to go now?”

“Yea, the horses will be delivered the day after we move in.”

“That’s great!” Marc agreed.

“Oscar picked up the phone on the first ring. “Russ?”

“Yea Oscar bad news we’ve hit a brick wall.” Russ told him.

“What do you mean?” Oscar almost shouted into the phone

“I mean we have checked every hotel along the interstate no one has seen Steve or Marc.” Rudy told him.

Oscar slammed the phone down. “I’m sorry Rudy. I’m going to have to get the police involved.”

“Don’t you think that’s rather drastic?” Rudy asked

“Rudy I need to find them. I’m beginning to think you were right. Steve believes Marc is his son. “

“Yea I know I was hoping at least Marc would have called. That could mean…”

“Steve won’t let him call. Rudy I hate to say it but Steve kidnapped my son. I know Steve has had a special fondness for Marc especially since the surgery, but Marc’s my son. Not Steve’s”

Rudy sighed. “I guess you’re right. I was hoping Steve would have come around by now. But I have a feeling he doesn’t want to be found.”

“Especially if he’s trying to stay out of sight.” Oscar muttered.

“I guess you better call the police.” Rudy admitted. “I hate to do that to him though.”

“So do I.” Oscar lifted the phone.

They checked into another hotel, this one they would stay in till their new house was ready to move into.

“I can’t wait till we move into the new place.” Mare said. as he and Steve sat in the hotel room eating dinner. “I’ll be glad to sit in a real kitchen and have something good to eat.”

“Same here. I’ll make us a special dinner when we get moved in. Ok.”

“Yea sure.” Marc sighed.

“Something wrong son?” Steve asked.

“I just miss Matt I guess.”

“Yea I’m sorry. I know you and Matt were close Marc. Well I’m hitting the sack early you with me?”

“It was a long day. Wasn’t it?” Marc yawned.

Steve sat watching Marc sleep. “It’s ok son. No one will hurt you.” He said as he drifted off to sleep himself.

Steve woke Marc early the next day. “Marc let’s go get something to eat.” Steve said. “I don’t want to stay around here to much. I also want to rent another car.”

“Are they catching up to us dad?” Marc asked, as he got dressed.

“I don’t think so. But I think we should really cover our tracks.” Steve pointed out. “Come on. You can sleep in when we get settled.”

“Ok dad.” Marc replied.

“I want you to gather up all of your stuff. We will stay in a different hotel tonight. We will even go to a different town. ‘Oscar won’t stop till he finds us’ Steve thought.

They dove into the next town and Steve found another hotel.

“This should be it till we move into our house.” Steve smiled at Marc.

“That’s good.” Marc said. sitting on the edge of the bed.

“Listen I’m going to get cleaned up. You stay in the room ok? I don’t want anyone to find you.”

“Yea sure dad I’ll just watch TV”

“Sounds like a good idea.” Steve stepped into the bathroom Marc could here Steve inside. Marc sat listening when he heard a loud crash. He knocked on the door.

“Steve. I mean dad! Are you all right?” Marc called. Marc received no answer.

He knocked and shouted a couple of more times but still got no responce. The door was locked but Marc forced it open.

Steve laid passed out on the floor.

Steve! Steve.” Marc cried running over to where Steve lay. "Are you alright?” Marc shook him.

“Yea. I think so.” Steve responded. “What happened?”

“I don’t know. I heard something fall and found you on the floor you scared me.”

“I’m ok. I just felt a little dizzy.” Steve explained. “You go on back outside and I’ll be right out.”

Before he could get ready for his shower Marc burst through the door again. “Steve someone is at the door.”

“Who is it?” Steve wanted to know

“I don’t know they just started knocking.” Marc looked scared.

“Ok you stay right here. I’ll be right back.” Steve walked over to the door of the hotel room. He peeked out the peephole Steve reached up and hooked the chain across the door.

'Marc.' Steve whispered. 'It’s your dad and everybody. Just sit tight if we don’t say anything they might think we went out.'

Marc appeared in the bathroom doorway he slowly nodded.

“Open up Steve!” Oscar cried. “We know you’re in there. Just give up!”

Steve didn’t respond. ‘Just keep quiet Marc.’ Steve whispered again.

“Come on Steve!” Rudy called out. “Make it easy on yourself. I can’t hold them back much longer.”

Steve walked over to his suitcase and pulled out a gun. “I’m ready for you. You’re not taking my son!!” Steve yelled.

“He’s my son Steve!” Oscar called back. “Give up now and I’ll let you go on seeing him.”

“Just try and take him!” Steve threatened.

“Break it down Russ.” Oscar ordered.

Within in minutes Russ had the door broke down. He aimed a gun at Steve. “Don’t even try Steve.” Russ stated.

“Marc.” Oscar called. "Come on son. I’ll take you home.”

“No!” Marc cried. “I want to stay with Steve.”

Steve turned to Marc. “Thanks Marc, they got us son.”

Rudy walked over to Steve. “Come on Steve give me the gun.” Rudy started shaking Steve to get him to give it up.

"No Rudy. Marc is my son. Just get back."

Rudy continued shaking him and calling his name.

“Steve. Steve? Can you hear me?" Rudy was shaking him.

Steve could here the voices coming from a long way off. He started to drift away again.

“Steve. Come on its Rudy. Can you hear me?”

Steve slowly opened his eyes. “Rudy just get back." Steve tried to punch him.

“Steve come on you’re not fully awake yet just relax.” Rudy tried to hold him down.

“Just get away from us. Marc and I were getting along just fine. Just leave us alone!”

“What’s he talking about Rudy?” Oscar asked

Rudy shrugged I have now idea. “Steve. Why don’t you just rest? Jaime will…”

“Jaime?” Steve questioned. He stopped fighting.

“I’m right here honey.” Jaime spoke to him.

Steve looked around he was in his own living room. He was still real fuzzy. He tried hard to figure out where he was and how he got there.

“How did I get here?” He asked still wondering what exactly was going on.

Rudy looked at him for a moment. “Steve what’s the last thing you remember?”

“I don’t know. Wait I was going to clean the bathroom.” Steve explained.

“That’s right.” Jaime agreed. “He didn’t want me to do it.”

“I don’t understand what’s going on.” Steve proclaimed. “Where’s Marc?”

“He’s home pal.” Oscar moved closer to him.

“Well that’s good.” Steve stated. Then added, “I guess.”

Steve tried to sit up but Rudy held him down. “No. I want you to rest for a little while longer.”

“I’m fine Rudy. Really.” Steve related still trying to sit up.

“Steve do you remember what happened?” Rudy continued to question him.

“I don’t know what you mean Rudy.” Steve gave him a quizzical look.

“What I mean is.” Rudy loosened his grip on Steve so he could sit up. “What I mean is do you remember what you were doing right before you passed out?”

Steve sat back and closed his eyes. “I don’t know Rudy. If you want me to be real honest the last thing I remember was talking to Marc.”

Rudy glanced over at Oscar. “Could that be possible?”

Oscar shook his head. “Marc has been home all day.” Oscar told him

“Is it important I remember Rudy?” Steve asked.

“Well no, not really. I just wondered if you did.” Rudy stated. “You said the last you remember was going to clean the bathroom? Can you go from there?”

Steve continued to sit with eyes closed. Then opened them quickly He turned to Jaime “You’re alright!” he practically shouted.

“Of course I am but you nearly scared me to death. You said you were going to clean the bathroom the next thing I know I heard a loud crash. I went in and found you sprawled out on the floor. I called Rudy right away.”

“The baby. How’s the baby.” Steve pressed.

“Well since you nearly scared me into labor I guess he’s ok.” Jaime sat next to him. “What happened?”

Steve shook his head. “I really don’t know.” Steve sighed.

“Well is it all that important?” Jaime wanted to know as she sat next to Steve on the couch.

Rudy turned to them “Yes the reason I feel like I need you to remember Steve is because I want to know why you passed out.” Rudy explained. “I mean if you just tripped and bumped your head that’s one thing. But if you actually fainted well that’s something else.” Rudy finished.

“I’m telling you Rudy even going into the bathroom is hazy. I remember something completely different.” Steve began to relate what he perceived to be the events of the past few days.

He looked at his friends surrounding him. They all stared in astonishment. “Steve.” Rudy broke the silence. "Jaime isn’t due for at least another seven months. That was some dream you had.”

“Was it just a dream?” He asked.

“Of course it was. Jaime is sitting right here. And the baby is just fine.” Rudy assured.

“Well I’ll keep trying to remember what happened.” Steve said as Rudy and Oscar got ready to leave.

“Good. Listen if you have any more problems just call. I’m not comfortable not knowing why you fainted.” Rudy frowned. “May be I can try to retrace you steps.” Rudy stepped in and then right back out.

“What is it Rudy?” Oscar asked.

“Steve you don’t need to remember what happened. I’ll tell you.” Rudy said holding his nose.

“I sure hope some one can fill in the blanks.” Steve sighed.

“You went into clean the bathroom?” You and Jaime both agree on that?”

They both nodded.

“Well here’s your answer. Never ever mix ammonia and bleach. That’s what made you pass out.” Rudy explained. “You ought to no better than that.” Rudy scolded.

“You mean he’s going to be all right?” Oscar sounded concerned.

“Yea. He’s going to be just fine.” Rudy related.

“Well that’s a relief.” Jaime exclaimed.

“I would like you to come in to the office tomorrow just to check you out. But I’m sure you’re going to be just fine.” Rudy headed back to the bathroom.

“To check on what?” Steve wondered

“Well I would like make a double check from when Barney shot you.” Rudy reminded. Then he turned to Steve. “You remember that don’t you?”

“Of course I do.” Steve said.

“So I would like to check you out from that and from this.” He picked up the bucket.

“What are you going to do with that Rudy?” Oscar asked.

“I’m going to dump it down the drain. I don’t want it to cause any more trouble. I suggest not using this bathroom for the rest of the day. I’ll open the window to let it air out.”

“I appreciate you coming Rudy.” Jaime said after Rudy dumped the concoction out and they all walked to the door.

“Steve I want you to just take it easy for the rest of the day. You may still feel a little dizzy.” Rudy warned.

“I’ll see to it he takes it easy.” Jaime promised when they stepped out on the porch. “And I’ll see to it he comes in tomorrow.” She assured.

“That’s good. I’ll see you tomorrow sometime then.” Rudy started down the steps.

“You take it easy pal.” Oscar stated. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Feel free to call.” Rudy added. “If you experience anymore dizziness.” Rudy opened the car door.

“Thanks again!” Jaime called from the front door. They both stepped inside Jaime closed the door. “Maybe you better just lay down on the couch. I’ll bring you what you need.” Jaime suggested.

“I think I’ll be alright Jaime.” Steve said.

“I’m sure you will, but I just want to make sure. You scared the living daylights out of me.” Jaime related.

“I’m sorry.” He gave her a light kiss on the cheek.

“See that you don’t!!” Jaime scolded as she kissed him back.