“Good morning boys. Welcome to the accelerated program. I am Mr. Gene Finney I will be your law instructor until Rick Paterson returns.”

The three boys sat quietly waiting for their lesson to begin…

“So did Dan get off ok?” Oscar asked Rudy when the Dr. stepped into his office. “I couldn’t help it I had an early meeting and had to be here. I hated to miss Dan’s ‘first day’.”

“He got off just fine.” Rudy told him. “I had a little talk with the twins I told them to spend a little more time with Joey. They promised they would. Maybe they’ll all tell ‘Brandy’ to take a hike.”

“I hope so. Joey told me last night that Brandy wants his own bed.”

“I hope we get it resolved before that happens.” Rudy laughed. “Imagine buying a bed for nobody”

“I refuse to let it go that far, and it’s not funny.” Oscar was serious.

“Oscar, it’s not a serious problem.” Rudy told him “I’m sure that if the twins pay a little more attention to him, he’ll grow out of it. Hopefully sooner than later.”

“I hope you’re right.” Oscar finished.

“I’m sure I am.” Rudy assured.

Anyway the reason I’m hear is that Steve and Jaime are ready to use Danny’s method. They just hope that Marc can come to terms with it before the baby’s born. They figure he will have nine months. We want to go ahead with it this afternoon after Dan gets out of school”

“I really think that is a pretty scary thought. Another Steve Austin.” Oscar said.

“Well in looks only. You see in order for the baby to be exactly like Steve Everything that happened before and after Steve was born would have to be recreated.”

“Why can’t we do that?” Oscar asked.

“It would mean bumping Steve off before the baby was born. Steve’s natural father died before he was born, remember?”

“I guess your right. Do you think Marc is ready for it?” Oscar asked again.

“I guess we will all find out together. Minnie will stay with the kids this afternoon.”

“Ok guys”. Gene Finney was saying. “I want you to read the next four cases in your law books I want briefs on at least one of them by class time tomorrow. Extra credit if you do more than one.”

The three boys got up to leave. Danny had to head for his medical class with one of the other students.

Gene Finney left the school and headed for the ACME garage in downtown DC to meet with his accomplices Hector and Agee.

“You aren’t going to believe this, it is to simple. I have Oscar Goldman’s son in that law class I’m teaching.”

“Are you serious?” Hector asked. “But what do you mean it’s to simple?” Hector continued.

“My plan is this. I will give young unsuspecting Daniel a watch that has a transmitting device in it. We will be able to hear everything that goes on at the OSI and at Goldman’s home.”

“Very clever idea.” Agee spoke for the first time. “But how will you get the man to accept a watch?”

“Goldman’s son is only 12.” Finney pointed out.

“I thought you were teaching a law class?” Agee argued.

“It is a law class, the students are very bright children.” Finney explained.

Hector spoke again. “If he is so smart won’t he suspect?”

“I have a plan that should cover all bases.” Finney explained. “You just leave it to me.”

“If you’re sure. We need Dr. Losey and invention as soon a possible.” Hector reminded him. You better be right Finney.”

Danny arrived at the OSI building and went straight to Rudy’s office. He had received a note in his last period class simply stating ‘they are ready’ Danny knew exactly what that meant.

When Danny stepped into Rudy’s office everyone was waiting for him. “I have the first half of the procedure complete. I am lost though as to what to do next.” Rudy told him. “This is your baby, no pun intended.”

Danny walked into the lab he had Steve’s DNA with him. He slowly began the procedure of creating Steve’s clone.

After Danny completed his end Rudy again took over again. “Ok Jaime that should do it. We should know in a couple of days if it took or not. You go home and just rest for the night. I want to see you back here in a couple of days.”

“I’ll be here. Tell Steve to come on in.” She asked.

“I’ll do that. I have to remind Oscar to tell Dan not to mention any of this to anyone.”

“I would appreciate that.” Steve said walking on in with out being invited. “I don’t want people to know my wife is going to give birth to her husband’s clone.”

“I agree Steve.” Jaime said. “Rudy says I can go on home I need to come back in a few days.”

“I’ll see that she gets here Rudy.”

“See you then Steve, Jaime.” Rudy stated.

“Do you think it will work Dan?” Oscar asked on the ride home.

“I think so dad. I did everything right. And it was ‘the right time’ so it should work.”

“I hope so. I would love to see Steve and Jaime become parents.” Oscar noted

“Yea me too.” Danny’s voice trailed off.

“So how was your first day at the accelerated classes?” Oscar asked after several moments of silence.

“They went great. I love it.” Dan stated.

“Dan, you know you can’t tell anyone about what’s going on. I mean I don’t want people to know that you are trying to clone a human being.”

“I know that dad. I would never tell anybody.” Dan reassured.

“I’m glad you understand.” Oscar brought the car to a stop in the garage. “Well I wonder if ‘Brandy’ is still a member of the family.”

“I hope not.” Dan sighed. “Joey told me Brandy was sleeping in my room and I had to sleep on the couch.” Dan laughed.

They walked in the back door. “How is everything tonight?” He asked Minnie.

“Great. The twins and Joey are playing upstairs. And I haven’t heard Brandy’s name all afternoon.”

“I hope that’s a good sign, and that Rudy was right.” Oscar muttered.

“Yea me to.” Said Danny.

“Will Jaime be back tomorrow?” Minnie asked before she left.

“Yea she should be.” Oscar said.

“Then you have a nice evening I’ll see you soon.” Minnie stated as went out the front door.

“Dad I have a lot of homework I’ll be in my office, let me know when dinner is ready.”

“I’ll send someone down son. You aren’t in over your head are you?”

“No. Not at all just a lot of homework for the night.” Danny assured.

“I just don’t want you to have problems again. The deal you and Rudy made, still holds.”

“You don’t have to worry dad.” Danny told him. “I’m alright.” Danny grabbed a cupcake and headed down the basement.

“I hope so.” Oscar muttered to him self as Danny went on down to his office to do his homework.

Oscar went up to change his clothes so he could get dinner started. He peeked into the twin’s room. They were sitting at their table with Joey playing a game. Oscar noticed there were only three playing pieces on the board. ‘I think that’s a good sign’ he thought to himself.

“Hi dad.” Marc said.

“Hey guys. Dinner in thirty minutes, ok?”

“S sounds g great d dad.” Matt said.

When they sat at dinner Oscar was relieved to see that Joey didn’t have a place for ‘Brandy’ “I guess you were right Rudy.”

“See I told you.” He turned to Dan “I didn’t get a chance to ask you this afternoon. How was school today?”

“Like I told dad it was great. I have a little more homework but I think it’s going to go just fine.’

“Maybe we should scale back what you do for me.” Rudy suggested. “Just till you get used to the new routine.”

“We don’t need to do that Rudy. I’ll let you know if it’s to much.” Danny promised.

“Ok just so long as it’s not to much for you.”

The next morning Oscar dropped Danny off at school “You have a good day. I’ll see you at 3:00.”

“Yea see you then dad.” Dan got out of the car and headed into the building.

“Good morning guys.” Gene Finney began. “Today is my last day with you. Mr. Paterson will return tomorrow. I have something I want to give you. It’s a watch. They are those new digital ones.” He carefully handed out the three watches to each boy making sure he gave Danny the watch with the hidden transmitter…

Each boy smiled and placed the watch on their wrist. “Wow these are cool. Bryce whispered to Danny. I have wanted a watch like this for a long time, but my parents said I was to young for one.”

Daniel turned to him. “Same here.” He whispered back.

“Ok guys I want you to hand in those briefs I asked you to do.”

The boys handed in their homework assignment

“Danny, wake up.” Steve said for the fourth time. “Come on son. Wake up.”

Dan slowly opened his eyes. He was sitting in the front seat of Steve’s car. “Huh Steve, where are we?”

“We’re at the OSI son. You must have fallen asleep on the way here. Are you alright?” Steve was a little concerned.

“Yea I think so. Boy what a wild dream I just had. It was really weird.” Dan told Steve his dream, about how is brothers had been killed and he had adopted Marc and Rudy had adopted him.

“That sounds pretty bad to me. Although I would like to take Marc sometime.” Steve said. “Are you going to go up and work with Rudy?”

“Yea thanks for the ride Steve.” Dan said grabbing his book bag out of the back of Steve’s convertible

“Hey Dan. Are you sure you’re ok?”

“Yea Steve. Again thanks for picking me up.” Dan said as he got out of the car.

“Ok I’ll be up in your dad’s office. He, Rudy and I have a meeting.”

“I better get up there before Rudy leaves then.” Dan headed into the building.

Finney was sitting in a chair in his office in the ACME garage across town. “Good very good you are at the OSI. I just hope they discuss important stuff in front of you.” He said turning to his partners. “I just hope they discuss the whereabouts of on Dr. Emil Losey.” He smiled. “The transmission is perfect too.”

“I have a meeting to go to. You need to get started on your homework.” Rudy told Dan after he set his books down. I won’t be to long.” Rudy left Dan alone and headed for his meeting with Oscar and Steve.

“Come on!” Finney was angry. “This is not fair. I have the opportunity to get anything I want and what happens? I get stuck with a kid doing his homework.”

“Finney” Hector began. “Did it occur to you that maybe they never say anything around the boy?”

“I did plenty of research. The boy works there. They have to talk around him at some point. Now be quiet so I can listen.”

“So when does Dr. Losey come here to work Oscar?” Steve asked after the three of them gathered in Oscar’s office.

“Just as soon as you go pick him up.” Oscar told him. “We have reason to suspect that there will be an attempt to kidnap him.”

“Yea, why do you say that?” Steve wanted to know.

“Just information we have been receiving lately. We aren’t the only ones interested in his reactor.”

“Well Ok I’m on my way. I’ll take good care of him.” Steve said as he stood to leave. “I’ll take off in just a few minutes.”

When the meeting ended, Oscar turned to Rudy “Is Dan in your office?”

“Yea Steve picked him up instead of Russ. I just can’t wait to get Losey here. I just hope Steve doesn’t have any trouble when he goes to pick Dr. Losey up.” Rudy commented as they walked into his office.

“Who’s Dr. Losey?” Dan asked looking up for a moment from his homework.

After considering it for a moment Oscar told Dan. “He’s a scientist who has been working on a project dealing with hydrogen fusion. He has been working abroad for the past few years and is now back in the states after he discovered the missing component for his reactor.”

“That sounds interesting. I’m interested in that myself. I would love to speak to him, can I dad?”

Oscar smiled at his son. “Of course once his work is complete.”

“I was hoping I could help him on it.” Dan sighed.

“Not this time Dan. Dr. Losey works alone.” Oscar told him.

Steve poked his head in the door. “Well Oscar I’m on my way to Braxton, I’ll see you when I get back. What was that address again.”

Oscar gave him the address once again and Steve wrote it down. “I’ve never been to Braxton before I hope I don’t have trouble finding his place.” Steve stated.

“I’m sure you’ll do just fine.” Oscar assured.

At the mention of this, Finney’s ears picked up. “You got that address didn’t you?”

Hector and Agee nodded. “Well then get going. You need to get there before Austin does.”

Steve left the OSI parking lot and headed for Braxton, Maryland. He found the right street in no time. When he turned the corner he saw another car parked in front of Losey’s house. He zoomed in and saw two men forcing Dr. Losey into a car at gunpoint.

Steve hit the accelerator of his car and sped the rest of the way up the street. He jumped out of the car and one of the two men forcing Dr. Losey into the car fired at Steve. Steve ducked then lunged at the two men. He grabbed the gun out of Agee’s hand and sent it whirling into space.

Hector and Agee took one look at Steve and jumped back into their car and sped off. Steve grabbed Dr. Losey.

“Are you alright Dr. Losey?” He asked.

“Yes, yes I think so.” Losey replied.

“Let’s get you over to the OSI. There a plenty of people there who are very interested in your reactor.”

“Yes. I know they are.” Losey agreed.

Losey got into Steve’s car and they headed for the OSI.

“Steve reached for the car phone and called Oscar. “Oscar. It’s Steve. Someone already offered Losey a ride.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Oscar demanded.

“It means when I got here someone was already trying to pick Dr. Losey up.”

“How did they know where to find them?” Oscar thundered.

“I don’t know Oscar but we’ll have to find out. Why don’t you call Tom Dempster have him sweep your office for a hidden microphone. Oscar someone had to know exactly where to go.” Steve informed him

“Yea, I’ll do that, call Dempster that is. Just get Losey here. Fast!!”

“We are on our way. In fact I just pulled into the parking lot.”

“I’ll see you when you get up here then.”

As soon as Steve hung up Oscar reached for his phone. “Tom, this is Oscar. I need you to run a sweep of my office. And Rudy Wells’”

Steve and Losey walked inside and Steve showed him the lab he would be working in. “It’s ok Losey you’re safe here.” Steve tried to calm him.

Rudy was talking to Jaime when they walked in the door at home.

“How much will Danny be a part of this?” She asked.

“Not much now.” Rudy explained.

“Well that’s good. I’ll see you tomorrow then. Hopefully you will give me the news I want to hear.”

“I’m sure I will.” Rudy assured her.

“Hi Oscar.” Rudy greeted as Jaime left and Oscar and Danny walked into the kitchen. “Dinner is just about finished.”

“I’m not hungry Rudy. I need to talk to you, come to my office.”

Rudy walked through the living room to Oscar’s office. “What’s wrong Oscar?” He asked.

“Someone tried to kidnap Losey today. If Steve hadn’t gotten there when he did…”

“Oscar!” Rudy closed the door to the office. “How did they find him?”

“I don’t know Rudy, I just don’t know. There are two possibilities; one my office or yours is bugged. Or two someone informed the two men who tried to pick him up.”

“When will you know about the bugs?”

“Not until tomorrow morning.” Oscar told him. “Dempster is sweeping them now.”

“So we just have to wait?” Rudy asked.

“Yea we just have to wait and see what tomorrow brings. I don’t even want to tell you what I’m thinking.

In the ACME garage Hector, Agee and Finney called it a night. Since Danny was already in bed.

The next morning at the OSI Oscar and Steve received the news that Oscar and Rudy’s offices were both clean.

“That leaves only one person then.” Oscar turned to Steve

“Oscar! I don’t believe for one second that…I mean Danny would never…” Steve said. “How could you suspect…”

“Steve what am I supposed to think! Huh?” Oscar shouted. “You tell me! Just exactly what I’m supposed to think?”

“Oscar just calm down. Come on you know Danny. You know he would…”

“Do I? Do I really know him?” Oscar muttered.

“Oscar, listen to what you’re saying!” Steve tried to reason with him

“I am. Steve I am listening. Those kids were strangers to me. Do you understand? Strangers. I never really knew them.”

“But you know them now Oscar.” Steve pointed out.

“I don’t think that I do.” He reached over and picked up the phone.

“Who are you calling?” Steve demanded.

I’m calling Danny’s school I’m sending a car to…Yes this is Oscar Goldman I’m sending a car for my s…” Oscar thought a moment “For Dan Goldman. Please have him ready.”

Steve frowned at Oscar then turned to leave.

“Where are you going?” He asked.

“I’m not going to sit back and let you accuse Danny. Your son Danny for a crime he couldn’t and wouldn’t commit.”

He almost knocked Rudy down as he left. “Where’s the fire?” Rudy asked.

“In Oscar’s head!” Steve shouted.

“What’s going on?” Rudy wanted to know “Ask him!!” Steve pointed at Oscar. He turned back around and slumped down on the couch in Oscar’s office.

“What’s that all about?” Rudy questioned.

“He’s upset…” Oscar started

“I can see that' Rudy said. He turned to Steve. "What are you so upset about Steve?”

“Let Oscar tell you. I’m to angry!” Steve was still fuming.

Rudy turned to Oscar. “Well?”

“You know Tom Dempster spent most of the night in your office and mine last night. Well they are clean. Now Rudy there were only four people who knew Steve was on his way yesterday to pick up Losey at that address….”

“Right, you, me Steve and Dan.” Rudy added.

“Correct. Now I didn’t tell anyone where Losey was. I’m sure you didn’t. I know Steve wouldn’t…. That leaves only one person…”

”He’s accusing Danny!” Steve blurted out.

“Come on Oscar. You know Dan would never…”

“I don’t know that for sure Rudy. Like I told Steve. Those kids were strangers to me when I took them in.”

“Look Oscar, do yourself a favor. Before you make a fool out of yourself think about what you are doing and saying before you accuse Danny.” Steve was a bit calmer now.

“I’ve already made up my mind. I don’t know who else had a chance to leak the information as to where Losey was.”

Steve didn’t reply he just gave Oscar a stern look.

“Look Steve, Rudy, I don’t like it either. But I have no choice. We were all in my office when Losey called.

Rudy nodded.

“Then you and I went to your office talking as we went in. Danny heard everything. He even asked question, questions we were all to willing to answer by the way.”

“I know that but…”

“Then Steve, you needed the address again and I gave it to you. Right in front of Danny, You left and Rudy and I returned to my office leaving Danny…”

“Alone." Steve finished. "Look I know what it looks like. But I still say you’re wrong Oscar” Steve said.

They were interrupted when Callahan buzzed in. “Yes Callahan?” Oscar asked

“Your son is here Mr. Goldman.” She stated.

“Send him in.” Oscar ordered. He looked at Rudy and Steve “Are you two staying?”

“No. If you’re going to make a fool of yourself, you’re going to do it by yourself.” Steve said. He and Rudy left.

“You wanted to see me dad?” Danny asked as he walked in the door.

“Yea, have a seat Dan…”

Rudy and Steve walked down to Rudy’s office. “Can you believe that Rudy. I mean accusing Danny. Of all people I trust Dan with everything. Including helping Jaime and I have a baby has she been in yet by the way?”

“No not yet. She’s coming after the younger kids get out of ‘school’ Minnie Russell will stay with them.”

“Well that’s good. You know, I would give money to know what those two are talking about." Steve pointed toward Oscar's office I would have stayed but I don’t want Dan to think I’m against him too.”

“Yea same here.” Rudy agreed.

After several moments of silence Dan spoke. “So what did you want to talk to me about dad?”

“This is very serious Dan.” Oscar began. “We have a security leak here.”

“Yea Rudy was telling me about it last night.” Danny stated.

“At first we suspected my office or Rudy’s office were bugged, but we searched them last night and they came up clean.”

“So what do you think now Dad?”

“I don’t know what to think. Is there anything you would like to tell me?” Oscar looked at him.

Dan thought for a moment. “You think I leaked it. Don’t you?” Dan was shocked

Oscar looked Dan in the eye trying to read his expression. “You tell me Dan.”

“Dad! I would never say anything to anybody about what goes on here. You ought to know that.”

“I’m not sure I know much about anything right now.” Oscar muttered.

Finney was listening. His ears picked up everything. “So you suspect your young son Mr. Goldman.” Finney smiled. “He is the source of the leak, but not the way you think.”

“What if they don’t discuss anything in front of the boy now Finney?” Hector asked.

“We will think of something.” Finney stated.

“I want a lie detector test!!” Danny demanded. “I want it right now. Dad I didn’t tell anyone where Losey was. Why would I?”

Oscar didn’t answer the question. But he did call Tom Dempster and arrange for the test.

They stopped by Rudy’s office on the way down. “Do you know what he’s saying I did?” Danny asked Steve.

“Yea I do Dan, I can’t say I agree with him.” Steve assured him.

“He’s taking a lie detector test.” Oscar pointed out.

“I’m going with you” Steve said.

He followed Oscar and Danny to Tom’s Lab

After hooking Danny up to the machine Tom was ready to begin questioning Danny.

“I’ll do it Tom.” Steve stepped forward.

“Ok Danny are you ready?” Steve asked.

Dan nodded.

“What is your full name?”

“Daniel James Goldman.”

“Was that always your name?” Steve asked as the watched the needle move just a bit.

“No my uncle adopted me.”

“How old are you?”

“I’m 14”

They all watched as the needle jumped.

“I’ll ask again.’ Steve said. “How old are you?”

“I’m 12.”

"Do you have any brothers or sisters?"

"Yes. I have three brothers." Dan answered

The needle didn't move. Oscar and Tom didn't take their eyes off of it.

"Where do you go to school?" Steve wanted Danny to tell both the truth and lie so they could get an accurate measure.

"I go to Arlington Jr. High." Dan answered

Once again the needle jumped.

"One more time Dan. Where do you go to school?"

"I go to the Richmond School" Dan replied. Again the needle didn't move

“Ok Dan. Last question. Did you inform anyone as to the whereabouts of Emil Losey?” Steve asked him.

Danny looked him straight in the eye. “No Steve, I did not.”

The needle didn’t flinch.

Jaime was waiting for Steve when he arrived home. “Steve? What is wrong?” Jaime was so happy herself with the news she had She hated to see her husband so upset.

“Do you remember me telling you about Losey yesterday?”

Jaime nodded. “Yes you said someone already knew where Losey was and tried to grab him before you got there.”

“Right. Oscar suspected that either his office or Rudy’s were bugged so Dempster spent the night searching.”

“Did he find anything?” Jaime wanted to know

“Nothing.” Steve told her

“So what does Oscar think now?” Jaime wondered

“He thinks that someone leaked the information.” Steve spoke slowly.

“Well does he have any ideas who the leak could be?” Jaime was a little scared did the person know about her and the fact she was pregnant with…

“You’re not going to believe who Oscar suspects.

‘Who?” Jaime wanted to know.

“He suspects Danny.” Steve told her.

“What? Oh Steve, no way.” Jaime was shocked.

“That is his number one suspect. Jaime he won’t even listen to reason.” Steve sat next to her on the couch. “By the way. How did it go with Rudy today?”

“We’re going to have a baby!” Jaime was elated.

“That’s great. I didn’t mean to spoil your happy news with this.” Steve sighed.

“You didn’t spoil anything. How is Danny, is he alright?”

Dempster gave him a lie detector test. Dan passed. I still don’t think Oscar is convinced.”

“Poor Danny. If you see him tomorrow tell him I believe in him.”

“I will.” Steve assured…

The next day Oscar got ready for work He passed the hall table and grabbed his watch. He didn’t remember leaving it there but strapped it to his wrist anyway and headed for the office.

“Dan, I want you to stay home today.” Oscar called as he left the house.

He still wasn’t comfortable having Dan at the OSI at least till the leak was cleared up. “It’s not that I don’t trust you son. “ Oscar explained.

“I was planning on staying home anyway dad. I already talked to Rudy about it. I have a lot of homework to do.”

“Ok then I’ll see you tonight.”

An hour later Dan went to the hall table to retrieve the watch Mr. Finney had given him. It wasn’t there. Danny shrugged and let the matter drop. ‘Must have laid it down some place else.’ He thought.

Later that morning Oscar, Rudy and Steve sat in Oscar’s office.

“Listen Oscar.” Steve said. I think it’s best if I drive Losey back and forth, for a while anyway.”

“I agree Steve.” He reached over to pick up the phone. “Hello. Oh Dr. Losey. Yes. You need access to the xL10 computer? I’ll have Col Austin stop by and pick you up.”

“What is the address Oscar?” Steve stood with a paper and pencil.

Oscar gave him the address and Steve took off.

In the ACME garage Finney laughed. “It’s not the kid wearing the watch, it’s Goldman himself. I don’t care if you have to kill Col. Austin!!”

“We’ll get him Finney don’t worry.” Hector laughed as they left.

Steve pulled up in front of Losey’s new hide away. He led Losey out to his car. “Come on Dr. Losey. We’ll get you to that computer.” Steve said as he opened the door to his car.

They started driving. Hector and Agee were just a split second to late. “We can still get him.” Agee said.

“How.” Hector fumed. “We lost him again.”

“That is not the case.” Agee continued to follow Steve. “Col Austin will not cause us any more trouble. He pulled out a tranquilizer gun, and handed it to Hector “Here, I’ll pull up beside him. You hit him with this.”

Steve was busy talking to Losey he didn’t notice the car following him.

Agee pulled up beside Steve’s car Hector lifted the gun and fired, the tiny dart hitting Steve in the neck.

Steve’s foot hit the accelerator and the car went out of control. Losey reached over and grabbed the steering wheel. He managed to pull himself over so he was able to get his foot on the break.

Losey brought the car to a stop and pulled over to the side of the road. Hector and Agee lost no time. They pulled Steve out of the car and put him in the trunk of their!

Hector pulled a gun on Losey. “Ok Losey you’re coming with us. Get out.” He threatened.

Losey got out of the car and into Hector and Agee’s

Hector left Steve’s car on the side of the road and sped off to their hide out at the Acme Garage.

Finney was there when they arrived. “I see you finally got Losey.” Finney stated. “Very good job.”

“We have an extra bonus, “Austin is in the trunk of the car.” Hector smiled.

“You fool” Finney shouted. “You brought him here?”

“Yes I just thought…”

“You don’t think, you leave that up to me.” Finney snapped. “Now we have to find a new hide out.”

“What do we do with Austin?” Agee asked. “I bet he’s pretty valuable other wise why is he working for Goldman?”

“I don’t care what you do with him.” Finney shouted. “I am taking Losey to a new place. You stay here and take care of him.”

“What do I do?” I told you I don’t’ care. Keep him, Kill him the choice is yours.” Finney left with Hector.

Agee went out to the car and lifted Steve out. He dragged him into the garage and tied him to a chair in the office. Then he sat and waited for him to wake up.

“Well Col Austin I was wondering when you were going to wake up.” He held a gun.

“You must be the people who took Losey.” Steve muttered.

“That’s correct. “ Agee said.

“So, where is he?” Steve wondered

“He’s shall we say in a different location.” Agee stressed. “Now the reason we took him is because we want his invention. But. And my boss disagrees with me. You are far more valuable they Losey.”

“What makes you think that?” Steve asked. He knew he could use his bionics at any moment and get away from this creep but… the creep had a gun.

“You work directly for Oscar Goldman. You can get us information far greater than Losey’s invention.”

“Who told you I worked for Oscar. I work as a freelance bodyguard. The OSI hired my company to protect Dr. Losey. That’s all.”

Agee shook his head. “Let’s just say, I don’t believe you.”

“Yea, well it’s the truth.”

“Well I know that given time, you’ll talk.” Agee sneered. “My boss said you were my responsibility I can do what ever I want with you. I choose to keep you alive for the time being anyway.”

“There’s a comforting thought.” Steve said.

“I thought you would see it that way. Now the more information you give me, the longer you stay alive. It is that simple.” Agee explained.

“And if I have noting to tell you…”

“I kill you right now.” Agee stated.

“Russ. Have you seen Steve?” Oscar asked.

“No I thought he went to pick up Losey.” Russ stated.

“So did I. I just came from the lab Losey is not there. Steve should have been here with him a long time ago.”

“Do you suppose the same people showed up that tried to pick him up yesterday?” Russ asked.

“That is possible. But I made sure Dan stayed home today. I didn’t want to take any chances.”

“You still don’t suspect…”

“I don’t know, but that’s not important right now. What is important is that we find Steve.”

“Have you spoken to Rudy, maybe they are all in his lab.” Russ suggested.

“I bet that is where they are!” Oscar headed for Rudy’s lab. Rudy opened the door. “Rudy you haven’t seen Steve and Dr. Losey have you?”

“No I haven’t Oscar. I was just about to ask you the same question. I really wanted to talk to Losey about something.”

“You know Steve.” Russ started maybe Losey needed something and they stopped to get it.”

“I seriously doubt it.” Oscar muttered. “I just know something has gone wrong “

“What makes you so sure of that?” Rudy asked.

“If they hadn’t tried to pick up Losey yesterday I wouldn’t be so worried. I just know they have Losey and Steve.”

“Well I’m not to worried.” Rudy broke in. Steve can take care of himself.”

“Yea I guess you’re right.” Oscar said. “I just can’t help thinking that something is very wrong. Otherwise Steve would have at least called.”

“He’ll call. Oscar. Don’t worry. Rudy assured.

“Yea maybe you’re right.”

“Why do you work for the OSI?” Agee asked.

“I told you. I freelance. The OSI hired me on a temp basis the janitor has a bigger clearance than I do.”

“Now we both know that is a lie, don’t we?” Agee stressed.

“I don’t know what you want.” Steve continued. “I can’t give you the information you want.”

“I just don’t believe you Col. Austin.” Agee shook his head.

‘Why don’t I just get away from this creep’ Steve thought. ‘I’m tired of playing his game.’

“If you tell me what I want to know, I’ll lead you to Losey. I do know that you are interested in finding him.” Agee pushed the issue.

“I want to find Losey, but not necessarily for the OSI.” Steve tried to explain.

“I don’t believe that. Now if you will tell me what I want to know I’ll take you to him.”

‘You’re going to take me to him anyway.’ Steve thought.

“Austin, I’m going to give you one more chance to cooperate with me.” Agee snorted.

“I am telling you the truth. And I’m not saying anymore on the subject.” ‘Maybe now he’ll leave and I can follow him to where they have Losey.’ Steve thought

“Ok then you leave me with no other alternative.” Agee reached for a syringe laced with another tranquilizer he had already had made up. Steve smiled to himself as Agee plunged it into his leg.

Steve smiles to himself then feigns unconsciousness Agee sets to work. He leaves the office and locks the door. Then he spreads gasoline all over the garage. He lights a match throws it down and leaves…

Oscar left Rudy’s office and walked back down to his own. He sat with his hand on the phone waiting for Steve to call

‘Finally’ Steve thought. He leaped up from the chair breaking the rope that had held him. He went over to the door to the office and forced it open. The garage was rapidly filling with smoke. Steve got out of the garage just in time to see Agee’s car speed around the corner.

Steve took off after him. He followed him to the warehouse district in DC Steve watched as Agee got out of his car and walked into one of the abandoned buildings.

Steve made his way around the side of the building and jumped up to an open window. He crept inside and made his way across the room.

Steve could hear voices coming from the first floor of the warehouse “Alright Losey you’re going to turn your invention over to us.”

Steve didn’t recognize the voice. He made his way down the stairs and stopped. They were standing right there with their backs to him.

He crept as quietly as he could down the steps and made his way to a spot under the stairs. He stood waiting for his opportunity to get Losey out of there.

“I don’t know what invention you are talking about.” Losey lied.

“Losey we want the one with hydrogen fusion and its reactor. “ Agee seethed.

“I have no idea what you are talking about.” Losey kept saying

Steve stayed where he was, watching and listening and waiting for his opportunity to rescue Losey.

Oscar remained at his desk waiting for his private number to ring. If it didn’t ring pretty soon he thought he was going to have to call Jaime to investigate what had happened to Steve.

“Any word yet?” Rudy wondered as he walked in.

“No, nothing yet Rudy. I just know something has gone wrong. Steve left here over an hour ago to pick up Losey. He should have been here a long time ago.”

“He’ll be here don’t worry. Even if the same people who tried to pick up Losey yesterday grabbed them both today, Steve can take care of himself.”

“I might have to send Jaime into help him” Oscar said more to himself then Rudy.

“Do that, and Steve will throw you off the building.” Rudy presumed.

“What are you talking about?” Oscar wondered

“Jaime is going to have a baby…”

“You don’t need to say anymore. Maybe Marc?” Oscar questioned.

Rudy shook his head. “Steve can take care of himself Oscar. Don’t worry about it.”

Steve was hoping at least one of them would leave. “Agee” Hector started “I believe I have something that may get Losey to cooperate with us. “I left it in the car go get it. By the way what did you do with Austin?”

“Let’s just say, he won’t bother us anymore.” Agee told him as he headed out door.

Steve grabbed his opportunity. He slipped out from under the steps and made his move on Hector and Finney.

He raced up to the two of them and smashed their heads into one another. Both men fell to the floor unconscious.

“Come on Dr. let’s get you out of here.” Steve said. They headed for the door just as Agee was coming back in.

“Hey what’s going on?” He pulled out his gun and pointed it at Steve.

“I’ve had just about enough of you for one day.” Steve indicated. He grabbed the barrel of the gun and bent it upward then threw it to the ground.

Agee stared in disbelief. Steve grabbed him and set him in the chair where Losey had been sitting. He tied all three men up.”

Losey looked at the gun on the floor then at Steve. “How did you?”

“Never mind. Come on Losey. I need to get you back to the OSI.” They left the warehouse and were about to head for the main street where they could make their way back to the OSI.

“Wait a minute Losey. I need to Call Oscar and tell him what happened. He can send someone to pick these guys up too.”

Oscar hadn’t moved since he had sat down. The phone rang just as Rudy was getting ready to leave.

“Steve!” Oscar called into the phone.

“Yea Oscar. We had a little trouble.” Steve started to explain

“Ok. What happened pal?” Oscar wanted to know

“Those same goons that tried to pick up Losey yesterday managed to get the job done today.”

“What? Is he all right? Are you all right?”

“Yea Oscar we are fine. You need to send a team over to the warehouse district to pick them up. Losey and I are on our way back.”

“Ok Steve. We’ll see you when you get here.” Oscar hung up and dialed for the back up team to pick up the three men.

“I just don’t understand Steve.” Oscar said when he got back with Losey.

“Well there has to be a leak somewhere Oscar.” Steve stated. “They had to know I was on my way to pick Losey up.”

“But how. Danny was home when Losey called. I left him home for that reason.”

“I know Oscar and when this is over with I just hope Dan still feels the same way toward you.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Oscar demanded.

“I’ll tell you later.” Steve told him. “I think you need to get Dempster back in here to check for bugs.”

“But Steve we got the men who planted it.” Oscar argued.

“I know that. I just want to clear your son’s name. I don’t want everyone to think he had anything to do with it.”

“You really care a lot about my kids don’t you?” Oscar assumed.

“I wish they were mine. Especially Marc.” Steve admitted “They did something for you I have been wanting for quite a while

“What’s that?” Oscar asked.

“They mellowed you out. Oscar you’re not so tough anymore. I mean I used to be able to call here at 9:00 at night and you would be here. Anymore you’re at home unless some thing has come up. Anyway give Dempster a call. Maybe he missed it last time. It has to be in here.”

Oscar called Dempster. He was in Oscar’s office in a matter of seconds. He began searching the office again.

Steve and Oscar sat on the couch watching him. “I just hope he finds something this time Steve.” Oscar related.

Dempster walked toward Steve and Oscar the needle on the devise began to move. “I think I have something.” Dempster stated. He moved closer to where they sat. The needle moved even more.

“Oscar the bug is on you!” Dempster told them. “Hang on.” He ran the frequency over Oscar when it came to the watch on his wrist the needle went wild.

Oscar removed the watch. He handed it to Dempster. “There is your source Oscar.” Dempster stated.

“Oscar. Hang on a second.” Steve took the watch from him. “Oscar this is not your watch.”

“What do you mean Steve?”

“I gave it to you for Christmas from the twins remember?” Steve continued to stare at it.

“Yea. I remember.” Oscar stared at it.

“I had yours engraved “ Steve reminded

“That’s right it says from Marc and Matt Xmas 75.” Oscar remembered.

“Where did you get it?”

“It was on the hall table this morning “ Oscar explained.

“Is it the one you got Rudy?” Steve pressed.

“No Rudy has his on today.” Oscar explained.

“Where did it come from?”

“I have no idea Steve.” Oscar sat staring at the watch. “It’s just like mine….”

“Wait didn’t I see Danny wearing it?” Steve asked.

“Come on Steve, I wouldn’t by a 12 year old that expensive of a watch.” Oscar stated.

“Get Danny in here.” Steve said.

Ten minutes later Danny sat with Steve and Oscar in Oscar’s office.

“Dan.” Steve started. “Is this yours?” Steve held up the watch.

“Where did you find it? I left it on the hall table last night. It wasn’t there this morning I looked all over for it.”

“Your dad wore it by mistake. Where did you get it?” Steve continued.

“My teacher Mr. Finney gave it to me.” Dan stated.

“When son, when did he give it to you?” Oscar wondered.

“The other day.” Dan explained.

“Dan I’m so sorry.” Oscar said.

“That’s ok dad. I would have suspected me if I were you. Where is Finney anyway?”

“On his way to jail.” Oscar reported.

“Well that’s good.” Steve commented. “I’m going to go see how Losey is getting along.”

“Ok Steve see you in a bit.” Oscar began to read a file that was on his desk.

‘Dad can I go help Rudy out?” Danny asked

“Sure son I’ll see you later.”