“That’s a good thing to.” Rudy pointed out. “If it had stayed on much longer I don’t know if I would have been able to repair them.”

“Well I hope Teddy didn’t notice…”

“From what they told us. They all worked on it. Marc did most of the work, but Teddy thinks the boulder wasn’t that heavy. In fact Teddy thinks he’s the strong one.”

“Well that’s good. Marc pulled that old trick.” Steve laughed.

“So Daniel you want to work for the NSB?” Jess said.

Dan nodded. “Yes I do. Can you help me with obtaining emancipated minor status.” Dan asked

“Well there we do have a problem Dan. You have to have your father’s consent. Or petition the courts. That could take several weeks. And with no guarantees.”

“What do you mean?” Dan asked.

“The courts don’t usually allow it unless you are in a bad home situation. Which I know you’re not.”

“I suppose you’re right.” Dan took the documents. “I’ll discuss it with my father.”

“I’ll see to it that you make it home.” Gregory said. “My driver will take you. And Dan if your father does not agree, you come see us in about eight years. Ok?”

“Yea sure.” Dan replied as security escorted him out of the building.

Oscar was just pulling into the drive when Gregory’s car dropped Dan off at the front gate.

“Want a ride up to the house?” Oscar called through the open window.

“Sure.” Dan crawled into the front seat.

“So are you coming home for dinner, or to pack?” Oscar asked when they pulled into the garage.

“I’m not sure yet.” Dan replied.

“We’ll talk. Ok?”

Dan nodded. “How is Steve?”

He’s going to be fine.” Oscar informed him.

“I’m glad of that. How about his legs?”

Rudy’s not sure yet. He said he wouldn’t know for a few more days when he tests him.”

Dan turned to Oscar, “You mean he’s staying?”

By now they had walked through the garage and had just entered the kitchen. Matt, Joey and Marc were in the kitchen. Oscar looked at them. “You three go up to your rooms I need to talk to Dan.”

They headed upstairs. “You go on into my office. Rudy was right behind me. We’ll join you soon.”

Dan walked into his dad’s office He waited for the two of them to come in.

Before Oscar and Rudy went in to talk to Danny he called Steve and Jaime at the hospital to tell them Dan was home and he was all right Well for the moment anyway.

Dan was sitting in the chair behind Oscar’s desk when they walked in. “Well young man we have a lot to talk about. Do you have any idea, any idea at all how worried I was when I read your note?”

“I have a pretty good idea.” Dan stammered.

“Dan it’s not like you to run away that’s for the twins to do.” Rudy interjected. “Look I’m sorry if I upset you. I was going to leave though. I guess I get a little intimidated by your intelligence sometimes.”

“I’m sorry Rudy. I don’t mean to intimidate anybody. Sometimes I don’t like being this smart. Especially when I lose the people I admire most.”

“You haven’t lost me Dan.” Rudy told him

“I didn’t mean it that way. What I meant to say is when I lose the friendship of someone whose friendship I value.” Dan stated.

“Dan “I’m sorry it’s my fault. Did you here? My fault.” Rudy assured him

“Yea, well I guess.” Danny sighed.

“What did Gregory say?” Oscar wanted to know

“He said. If you’ll sign the papers, I can start any time.” Dan told him.

“You know that is out of the question. You also said you were going to ask for emancipated minor status. You obviously found out you need my permission or take me to court.”

Dan nodded. “I have the papers right here.” He handed them to Oscar.

“You know I’m never going to sign them Dan.” Oscar handed them back.

“Yea I know. Can I go to my room now?”

“I guess so. You aren’t working for Gregory either. The only reason I allow you to work for us is one I’m right there. And two Our budget won’t allow for an assistant and Rudy needs your help.”

“I understand I’ll be down for dinner.” Dan headed up stairs to his room. He went into his office and turned on the computer.

“I’m sorry Oscar I didn’t mean to upset him so much. I don’t know what got into me. By the way what did you do with the resignation?

“It’s in the vault in my office never to see the light of day.” Oscar assured.

“Thanks Oscar. I guess I needed something to jolt me into reality. I guess Steve’s accident and Dan’s note gave me that jolt.” Rudy admitted. “I’m going to go up and talk to him some more. I’ll be down in time for dinner.”

“I’ll call when it’s ready. Do you think Steve will be ready to go home tomorrow?”

Rudy shook his head and left the room

Oscar went to the kitchen to get dinner ready and Rudy headed up to Dan’s room.

He knocked on Dan’s door. “Dan, can I come in?”

“It’s open come on in Rudy.”

Rudy walked into Dan’s room “You ok?”

“Yea I’m Ok.” Dan lied. “What did you want?”

“I just thought we could talk.” Rudy stated.

“About what?” Dan asked.

“I just wondered if there was anything you wanted to talk about.” Rudy said.

“No not really.” Dan answered.

Rudy stood “Well then I’ll see you at dinner.” Rudy knew that if Dan didn’t want to talk he wasn’t going to.

Dan gave him a weak smile and Rudy left.

Steve and Jaime sat talking. “Listen.” Steve began. I want you to go home tonight.” He told her. “You need to get some rest.”

“I’m fine Steve. You’re the one who needs the rest. Rudy says you should be up and around in a couple of days.”

“I know. I would like to get up now. But Rudy wants me to stay here at least till tomorrow.”

“Yea I know. The twins told us what happened with Teddy I mean. You pushed him out of the way.”

“I really don’t remember doing that.” Steve commented.

“How much do you remember Steve?” she was looking at him

“I remember going into the cave with the kids. I didn’t think it was very safe, but figured since I was with them they should be all right.”

“Then what happened?” Jaime was anxious to find out. She mainly wanted to see if Steve remembered.

The kids wanted to eat lunch so we did that…. Steve continued to tell her all of the events “I just don’t remember shoving Teddy out of the way.” Steve lied. It was actually his pride that kept him from admitting the truth.

“Rudy thought he would be back later this evening. He didn’t know if you would want him to stay through the night or not.” Jaime said sitting next to him.

“Well, if it’s a choice between him or you, I’d rather have you.” He kissed he lightly, but I do want you to go home and get some rest, so I guess I’ll have to choose Rudy.”

“I think I’ll stay at Oscar’s though, he asked me to and it is lonely at the house.”

“Well what ever you are comfortable with.” Steve smiled.

“Well I’m glad to see you’re in such a chipper mood.” Rudy stated as he walked into the room.

“When can I get up and start moving around?” Steve wondered.

“Well I thought if you wanted you could give it a try tonight. How about it feel like trying a couple of steps.”

“Yea sure. Steve swung his lets around to the edge of the bed. “Well’ he announced as he placed his feet on the floor. “Here goes nothing…”

“Ok Steve.” Rudy held onto one of his arms while Jaime held the other. “Here we go.”

Steve leaned on Rudy and Jaime as he stood. “Well.” He said as he moved his right foot forward. “There is one” Slowly he moved his left foot “And there is two. You two can let go now.

Jaime let go first then Rudy. Steve continued to move his feet un till he had walked across the room to the door.

“That’s great Steve!” Rudy commented. “You can get up as much as you want or need to in the night.”

“That’s great.” Steve turned around and walked back toward the bed. “It’s perfect Rudy. Thanks.”

“No problem Steve.” He turned to Jaime. “You’re staying with us right?”

“Jaime nodded. “Just let me say good-bye to Steve.”

“Sure, I’ll be outside.”

Oscar was glad to hear from Rudy and Jaime when they returned home that Steve had taken some steps before they left.. Oscar was still nervous that Steve would not walk again but his fears had been put to rest when they arrived home.

The next morning Jaime agreed to stay with the kids till Minnie arrived “Tell Steve I’ll call before I leave. Tell him I’ll bring his some ‘street clothes’ in a while.”

“I will. You ready Dan?”

“Yea but dad” Dan started “I don’t want to work with Rudy right now. They have a program at my school. We tutor people.”

“Are you sure this what you want to do?”

“Yea dad. Maybe once School gets started again I’ll go back to helping Rudy.”

After getting Dan set up at school, Oscar headed for he office. He stepped into Steve’s room when he arrived. “So how is the cave explorer this morning?” Oscar asked cheerfully

“I’d be doing better if Rudy said I could get the h--- out of here today.” Steve complained.

“Well I’m sure when Rudy feels you’re ready he’ll let you know. I mean you had just gotten out of the hospital and now here you are right back in.”

“Yea well. I feel great. They told you I walked around last night?”

Oscar nodded. “Why the rush though Steve?”

“I’m bored. I guess I hope Rudy let’s me go home today sometime.”

“Well if it will keep you quiet I hope so too. The kids send there best.” Oscar told him.

“If I get out of here I’ll stop by and see them I just hate being cooped up.”

“Well I have to head to the office. Jaime said she would bring you some clothes after a while.”

“Well that’s good. I could sure use them. I’m getting a draft. Well you know.”

Oscar laughed as he left the room “Yea I get the point.”

Later that morning Jaime stopped by with Steve’s clothes. “Thanks Jaime.” He said as he got dressed. “I’m going to head down to Rudy’s office and see about breaking out of here sometime today. Are you with me?”

Jaime shook her head. “I need to see Oscar about something I’ll meet you there. You just be careful.”

“I will be.” Steve said as he walked down the hall toward Rudy’s office, and Jaime headed for Oscar’s.

Steve entered Rudy’s lab. “Hey doc what’s the possibility of my getting early parole out of this joint.” Steve teased.

“The prospects are good. I still want to test your legs but when you’re a little stronger.” Rudy told you. “You can go anytime.”

Rudy was bent over the printout Dan had printed the day before.

“Rumor has it that Dan has come up with bionic skin that tans.” Steve wondered.

“Yea I’m sure it will work to.” Rudy set the print out down.

“Where is he?” Steve asked looking around Rudy’s office.

“He’s working in a tutoring program at his school right now.” Rudy sighed. “I pushed him away from me.”

“Oh Rudy I don’t believe that. Give him time he’ll come back.” Steve assured.

“I suppose you’re right.”

“So.” You’re sure I’m ready to get out of here?”

“Well I would like to keep an eye on things for a few more day.” Rudy said. “But you can come back in a couple of days. Just let me know if you have any trouble.

“We’ll do.” Steve assured.

“By the way, Teddy’s father Larry called the City. The mouth of that cave has been sealed for good.”

“That’s good.” Steve agreed. “It will keep them out of trouble until they find another way to get in.”

“What?” Rudy quizzed

“You were once an eight year old boy, unless there is something your not telling me.” Steve teased.

“I get your point. If there is a way into that cave, three eight year old boys are going to find it.”

“Right!” Steve declared. “Anyway we’ll just have to watch them then.” Steve indicated.

“Yea well like I said you can go anytime. Come on over to the house later.”

“We just might do that.”

“How is he Rudy?” Oscar asked coming in to Rudy’s office.

“He’s better. Why?” Rudy wondered.

“Is he ready to go out?”

“Oscar you have got to be kidding?” Rudy protested

“No I’m not Rudy. It’s that assignment I wanted to send him on before. There’s trouble.”

“What? Trouble?” Steve wondered.

“Big trouble. We really need you on this one Steve.” Oscar explained.

“Oscar. Steve just…” Rudy started

“I’ll be fine Rudy.” He turned to Oscar. “You just keep a special watch on Jaime.”

“I will. She can stay with us.” Oscar assured.

“Ok then I’m on my way.” Steve turned and walked out the door.

“Don’t look so worried Rudy He’ll be fine.” Oscar assured.

“I just hate to see him go off.” Rudy sighed. “If I had my way…”

“Rudy, we can’t always have it the way we want. I really don’t want him to go either, but we don’t have a choice.”

“Yea I guess you’re right. Is Jaime going to stay at the house?”

“I haven’t asked her yet. But she is more than welcome “ Oscar stated. “I think she’s still down in my office.”

“You told her that Steve was going out?” Rudy asked.

“Yea. She wasn’t very happy about it either.” Oscar sighed. “I just didn’t have a choice Rudy.”

“It seems like that’s what you always say.” Rudy reminded.

“Well I’ll go invite her to stay.” Oscar headed down to his office.

“Did Steve get off ok?” Jaime asked.

“Yea he did. Don’t worry Jaime, he’ll be fine.”

“He better be.” Jaime looked at him

“Well I’m under orders from Steve. He wants you to stay with us.” Oscar told her.

“Well I think I’ll take you up on that.” Jaime agreed.

They all arrived at the house at the same time.

Minnie was just getting ready leave when they walked in. “Thanks Minnie. I’ll let you know about tomorrow. Jaime may just stay with the kids.”

“Ok Oscar I’ll be willing if you need me.” She left

“Well then, let’s eat.” Oscar started “Rudy are you joining us?”

“Yea I might as well.” Rudy said. “He turned to Marc who had just come into the kitchen “How are you doing champ?”

“I’m ok I guess.” Marc shrugged.

‘Now what’s eating him?’ Oscar thought. “Come on guys dinner in twenty minutes.”

“I think Jaime is going to stay here with the kids tomorrow.” Oscar continued.

“I would stay but I’m working on that concept Dan came up with.” Rudy informed him “I hate to ask Jaime to baby sit, but then on the other hand it’s good practice.” Rudy laughed.

“Yea I guess you’re right.”

When dinner was ready Oscar called the kids down. They all sat together.

“So how was the tutoring Dan?” Oscar started the ball rolling.

“It went pretty good dad. Thanks for letting me do it.”

Marc looked up from his plate. “Dan isn’t working for Rudy anymore?” He asked.

“Not for the summer Marc. He wants to be with his friends.” Oscar explained.

“Oh, I see.” Marc didn’t eat much he merely played with the food on his plate.

“All right Marc.” Oscar said. “What’s going on. I thought you liked chicken.”

“Just not very hungry.” Marc sighed. “Where did you send Steve?”

“That’s not important. You know I can’t tell you anyway.” Oscar explained.

“Maybe I could help him.” Marc suggested. “I mean if there is trouble…”

“That’s ok Marc you need to stay here. Ok?” Oscar smiled.

“I guess so.” Marc sighed again.

“What’s bothering you tonight Marc?” Rudy asked.

“Nothing, I’m done may I be excused.”

“Yea. Go ahead.” Oscar said.

Marc got up from the table and headed for his room closely followed by Matt.”

“Wonder what’s bothering him?” Dan looked at Oscar.

“I don’t know. I just wish he would be more open with us.” Oscar started clearing the dishes from the table.

Matt and Marc were sitting on Marc’s bed

“What’s wrong anyway?” Matt wanted to know.

“I guess you haven’t heard. Rudy is resigning from the OSI.”

“What does resign mean.” Matt wanted to know.

“It means he’s quitting.”

“Oh yea we talked about the other night. I remember now. He wants Dan to take over.”

“Yea and obviously Dan doesn’t want to either. Otherwise why would he be at school instead of the lab?”

Matt nodded his agreement. “Is that why you’re upset?”

“Don’t say anything. I don’t want to force Rudy to come back. I knew he never really liked me anyway. He was just pretending. It was his job. And if you say anything…”

“I get it I get it. So what are you going to do?”

“I’m going to find out where Steve is and help him on the assignment.” Marc explained, “Don’t tell dad.”

“I won’t.”

That night after robbing he and Matt’s piggy banks, Marc stuck the money in his pocket then he snuck down to Oscar’s office. He found the documents pertaining to Steve’s assignment ‘He’s in a small town in Arizona.’ Marc thought remembering the geography Jaime had taught them. ‘That ought to be simple enough.’ He copied down the hotel information. Then called to Matt who he knew was awake.

“I’m out of here Matt I got everything I need. I know where he is staying. We won’t be able to talk once I’m on the plane. Don’t tell dad anything till late in the morning I should be there by then.”

“Ok I won’t say a thing. I promise.” Matt called back.

Marc slipped out the front door. He walked to the corner and caught the bus that would take him to the airport…

Marc arrived at Dulles in less then 20 minutes. He went up to the ticket counter and told them he needed a one-way ticket to Tucson Arizona.

The ticket agent eyed him suspiciously “That will be ninety seven dollars and forty cents.”

Marc dug in his pocket. He had nine dollars and fifty-seven cents. Dejected he stepped away from the ticket counter.

Marc walked around the airport for over an hour. The ticket agent got busy punching up tickets for other passengers she forgot about the little boy bound for Tucson.

Marc read the flight board. He discovered there was a flight to Tucson at 6 A M He planned to be on it.

After making his way through security, he made his way back to the gate area He was looking for gate 23. As Marc walked along he discovered the gates were in ‘number order’ He decided to follow the numbers till he came to gate 23.

‘Now, how do I get on the flight’ He thought to himself.

At 5:30 the gate agent announced they would start boarding the plane. Marc had never really flown before but he knew you gave the ticket to the lady at the door then you went outside to catch the flight.

The people waiting to board the plane surrounded the gate agent. Marc lost himself in the crowd and followed them out to the plane. As he climbed the steps onto the plane he heard the stewardess announce that it was a light flight. “Just sit anywhere.” She told the passengers as they boarded the flight.

Marc tried to make himself as inconspicuous as possible. He took a seat in the back of the plane and hoped no one asked where his parents were.

At 6:00 Oscar got out of bed. He went to check on the twins and Joey They all seemed to be sleeping. Marc had the blanket pulled up over his head.

After cleaning up to get ready for work Oscar went down to the kitchen Rudy was already there ready to head to work. He had made a pot of coffee. Oscar fixed himself a cup and sat across from Rudy.

“Everyone still asleep?”

Oscar nodded. “Yea all but Danny. He’s getting ready to go to work at the school. He’ll be down in a minute.”

“Sounds good.” Rudy replied “I just hope they don’t give Jaime to bad of a time.”

“They won’t. They are pretty good kids.”

Dan entered the kitchen. ‘”Still quiet up there?” Oscar asked.

“Yea, almost too quiet.” Dan noted

“Well eat your breakfast I’ll be in my office reading the paper. We’ll leave about 8:00 Ok?”

“Great I’ll be ready.” Dan started to fix his breakfast.

“I miss you in the lab Dan.” Rudy said when he sat at the table.

“I know Rudy. I just need to do this. Maybe I’ll stop in after I’m done today.”

“That would be wonderful.” Rudy exclaimed. “I’m sorry I got so upset the other day. I don’t want to push you away from me. Or am I already to late?”

“I’m not sure yet Rudy.” Dan replied. “I have a lot of things to think over.”

“I’ll give you room. Ok?”

“Yea I would appreciate that.” Dan replied. He stood and put his bowl in the sink just as Oscar came into the kitchen.

“Ready?”

“Let’s go. I really like doing this.” Dan said as they got into the car.

“I’ll see you at the office Rudy.” Oscar stated as the left the house.

“Yea see you there. I’m on my way out too.”

The flight had been very bumpy but they landed safely at the Tucson airport Marc caught a cab and gave the driver the address he had written down the night before.

The driver told him it was going to cost him $5.00 to go to that hotel. It was in the next town.

“That’s alright.” Marc told him. He handed him the five ones he had in his pocket. The driver took it and headed for Steve’s hotel.

Marc sat in the back seat. He watched as the City of Tucson came to life. It was about the same time he had left DC. 6:15 AM

“Here we are sonny.” The driver said when he pulled up to the curb.

Marc got out of the cab. He reached in his pocket and took out five dimes. He handed them to the driver. “Thank you sir.” He replied.

“Well thank you kiddo. You stay out of trouble now.”

Marc walked up to the registration desk “Yes I would like.” He thought for a moment trying to remember the name Steve was using. “Steve Patterson’s room please.”

The clerk looked it up. “He’s in room 117 down the hall and to your left.”

Marc turned to his left. “What’s your name sonny?” The desk clerk called.

“Marc, Marc James. “ Marc replied adopting his brother’s middle name for his last. “Thank you.” Marc again replied. He started down the hall.

The clerk watched him then picked up the phone. “Yea Thompson, Barton here. You know that Patterson guy I told you was staying here? There was some kid here looking for him. I still say his name is not Patterson. I’ve seen him somewhere I just can’t place it.

Maybe it’s his kid I mean that doesn’t sound like Patterson is a Fed then. Why would the Feds send a kid?”

“Can’t be told me his name was James. Look Herb I’m telling you he is a Fed. Now I guess I’m going to have to eliminate them both.”

By 10:00 Jaime was getting rather concerned about Marc. Joey had come down for breakfast but the twins hadn’t come down yet.

Joey was watching T V, Jaime walked into the living room “Joey. I’m going to go get your brothers I’ll be right back.”

“Ok Jaime.” Joey said not taking his eyes off the cartoon he was watching.

Jaime ascended the steps he went into the twins and Joey’s rooms. He opened the door to Marc’s room. Seeing the rise under the blanket Jaime walked over to where ‘Marc’ was lying.

“Marc. Hey Marc “ Jaime called out she reached over to gently shake the boy she thought was lying on the bed.

Jaime was shocked. When the figure under the blanket didn’t move. She threw the covers off and discovered there was nothing under there but pillows. She leaped up and ran to Matt’s room.

Matt was sitting on the edge of the bed. “You know where he is don’t you?” Jaime asked as she sat next to Matt.

Matt nodded. He turned to Jaime. “He said he was going to help Steve.” Matt whispered.

Jaime stood up to leave the room “I have to call your father. I’ll be right back.”

“Wait. There’s more.” Matt declared.

“Tell me Matt.” Jaime ordered.

“The reason he left…”

“Why did he leave? Look we’re wasting time Let’s get to the phone you can tell me on the way.”

They headed for Oscar’s room where the upstairs phone was. Matt talked all the way down the hall.

“Marc was upset that Rudy is leaving. He didn’t want him to quit.” Matt cried.

“Matt Rudy’s not quitting. He changed my mind. Only I guess we didn’t tell Marc that.” Jaime surmised.

“He’s staying? Really?”

“Yea I have to call your dad though.” Jaime picked up the phone and dialed Oscar’s private number.

“Yes Steve, what is it?” Oscar asked after picking up the phone on the first ring.

“Oscar, it’s Jaime…”

“Jaime? What is it are the kids all right?”

“I don’t know, Marc’s not here Matt says he went to help Steve.”

“What time did he leave.” Oscar wanted to know.

“According to Matt he left about …” Jaime turned to Matt. “What time did you say he left?”

“He left about 4:00 this morning.” Matt told him.

“Oscar…”

“I heard I’m on my way…”

“Can you get hold of Steve Let him know in case Marc shows up there.’

“I really hate to call him. I doubt Marc made it to Arizona. He wouldn’t have the airfare. I’m on my way home I’ll be there soon.”

“We’ll be waiting for you.” Jaime told him.

Marc walked down the hall to room 117 He walked up to the door and knocked.

Steve was sleeping when he heard someone at the door. He was a little nervous. He didn’t like the way the desk clerk looked at him and he wasn’t expecting anyone. Had they found out who he was?

Steve got out of bed and quietly walked over to the door. “Who is there?”

“Steve, it’s me Marc.”

Steve threw the door open and jerked Marc inside. “Marc you shouldn’t be here it’s to dangerous.” Steve slammed the door.

“I came to help you Steve.” Marc quavered

“Steve sat him on the chair “Your father didn’t send you did he?” Steve asked.

Marc shook his head. “No sir he didn’t

“How did you get here?” Steve demanded. He had never been mad at Marc and didn’t want to be now.

“I snuck on a plane.” Marc admitted.

“Marc do you realize the trouble you could have caused. I have to get you back to DC and now before anyone sees you here

In the lobby of the hotel the desk clerk was looking through some old newspaper clippings. “That’s it.” He cried out to himself. “I now know who you are Col Austin. “I knew you were a fed. Now I must eliminate you.

“Come on Marc First we call your dad, then I’ll buy you some breakfast, then I put you on the next flight back to DC I can’t believe you showed up here.” Steve was trying hard to not show his anger.

He opened the door to his hotel room. The clerk was standing outside the door with a gun aimed at Steve. “Going somewhere Col Austin?”…

Barton shoved the two of them back into the room.

“Now.” He said. “My boss and I are tired of the Feds poking their noses into our business.” He pushed Marc and Steve into two chairs. “Now I call my boss. We already had to take care of one Fed I guess two more won’t buy me any more time.”

“Look. You have me. Let the boy go!” Steve demanded

“No way Col Austin.” Barton sneered.

“I don’t’ know why you keep calling me that. I told you my name is Patterson. Steve Patterson.”

“We both know that’s not true. Col. Austin.” Barton sneered. “I knowed the minute I seen ya you weren’t no Steve Patterson. I took you for a Fed the instant I seen ya. He pointed to Marc. “This your kid?”

Steve whispered to Marc. ‘Just play along partner.’

Marc looked at Steve. He gave him a very slight nod.

“I’ve never seen him before in my life.” Steve shot back.

“Now why don’t I believe that?” The clerk asked.

“Believe what you want I’ve never laid eyes on him. Now let him go!”

“You must think I’m a fool. He’s either your kid. Or he’s a Fed too. Now come on we’re going to pay my boss a visit.

Steve was trying to protect Marc the best he could. “I’ll go with you, but leave the boy alone. He’s done nothing to you.”

“No. You are both coming with me. Now let’s go. My car is waiting downstairs.”

Oscar brought his car to a screeching halt on the driveway. He had raced all the way from DC to get home.

“Is he back yet?” Oscar drilled the minute he and Rudy walked through the back door.

‘No Oscar he’s not.” Jaime declared. “I’m really worried. Matt is certain either Marc is in Arizona or something has happened him.”

“What makes him say that?” Oscar wanted to know.

“He’s been trying for the better part of an hour to ‘contact’ Marc. Marc won’t answer. Which according to Matt means either something is wrong. Or they are out of range.”

Oscar turned to Matt. “Try again son. It’s very important. Try as hard as you can.”

Matt looked at Oscar “Ok dad. I will.”

Matt walked over to the couch and sat down. He closed his eyes and concentrated as hard as he could.

Marc and Steve were led down to the Barton’s car. “Get in.” he ordered and then shoved them into the backseat.

As much as he knew Steve didn’t want him to, Marc clung to his friend.

Steve held him and whispered. ‘I’m sorry you had to get involved in this son. I really am. You should have stayed in Washington. These people play for keeps.’

Marc looked up at him “I’m scared Steve.” Marc whispered.

“Just play along with me ok I don’t want you hurt.” Steve held him

‘Marc’ Steve continued to whisper to Marc. ‘Have you tried contacting Matt?”

Marc nodded. “I tried when I first got here. He can’t here me.”

“Ok so I guess we’re on our own.” Steve sighed.

The hotel clerk turned to the back “You two be quiet.” He shouted.

Rudy, Oscar and Jaime were watching Matt. “Anything son? Oscar asked.

Matt shook his head. “I just know Marc is with Steve though.”

“I just hope there isn’t trouble.” Oscar sighed.

“Do you really think Marc is with Steve?” Rudy turned to him.

“I would almost bank on it. If Marc doesn’t answer Matt…”

Marc and Steve were taken to a factory just outside of Tucson AZ. “Now.” the hotel clerk said as he parked the car. “Now we are going to teach you feds to mind your own business.

‘Marc you listen to me. I’ve been giving this situation a lot of thought. There is only one of him. The minute we get out of the car you run. You find the nearest phone and call your dad. Then you wait there for him to send someone to get you!’ Steve ordered

Marc looked up at him and shook his head.

‘I mean it Marc. I need help I don’t know what this guy is up to. But I don’t want you involved.’

Barton got out of the car he opened the back door and held a gun on the two of them. Steve held Marc by the shoulders. ‘Ok Marc now’ He whispered “Run!’

Marc shot away from Barton before Barton even knew what was happening. “Ok, ok so the kid got away. You won’t be so lucky.”

Steve turned slightly and watched Marc run out of the parking garage. ‘I’m counting on you partner’ Steve hoped Marc heard him.

“Get going.” Barton ordered.

Relieved Marc was safe Steve went with Barton into the factory

Marc made his way out of the parking garage and searched the street for a pay phone. He ran over to it.

Marc lifted the receiver and dialed the operator.

In Washington Oscar picked the phone up on the first ring. “Hello Steve.” Oscar called into the phone.

The operator spoke. “Will you pay for a call from Marc?”

“Yes operator Marc where are you?” Oscar demanded.

“I’m in Tucson.” Marc replied.

“Is Steve with you.”

“No dad. They have him.” Marc cried

“Who has him Marc what’s going on?” Oscar continued shouting.

“I don’t know. “ Marc was still crying.

“Marc exactly where are you?” Oscar was a little calmer.

Marc looked around. “I’m at a pay phone on Third Street.” Marc replied.

“Son what are the cross streets.” Oscar pressed.

Marc looked at the street signs “Maple and Pine.” Marc informed him.

“Where did they take Steve?” Oscar questioned.

“To some factory about a block from where I am.” Marc explained.

“Listen you stay there. I’ll send some one to get you.”

Barton forced Steve into a small office. “Now you just sit there till my boss gets here.” Barton ordered.

Steve sat ‘I just hope Marc was able to get a hold of Oscar. I hope he’s safe.’

Steve was still worrying about Marc when Barton’s partner walked in.

“Thompson. This is the guy I was telling you about. His name is Austin and he’s a fed if I ever saw one.”

“Well I guess we are just going to have to teach him the same lesson we taught the other.” Thompson laughed. “Then we move our enterprise somewhere else.”

“What are we going to do with him?” Barton wondered

“I think I have a plan. What about the kid?” Thompson wanted to know.

“He got away.” Barton admitted.

“Well you better go find him or there are going to be feds crawling all over the place.” Thompson warned.

“I’ll go look for him.”

After talking to Marc. Oscar called the Tucson Branch of the FBI “I have an agent in your area who’s in trouble. Under normal circumstances I would let him handle it on his own. But my eight year old son is involved.”

“Yes Mr. Goldman. We’ll be glad to assist the OSI. Where is your agent?”

“I don’t know, but my son does. He’s waiting at a pay phone on Third Street between Pine and Maple.”

“We’re on our way.”

Barton left the factory to search for Marc.

‘I hope they don’t find him. And I hope he was able to get a hold of Oscar.’ Steve thought to himself.

Barton headed up Third Street. “There he is.” Barton said to himself. “I’ll just go…”

He pulled up to the curb and was about to call to him when another man approached him

“Marc Goldman?” The man called.

Marc turned his head. “Yes”

The man flipped his ID at him. “ I’m Lee Peterson. I’m from the FBI. Your father called and told us to pick you up. Can you take us to where Austin is?”

Marc nodded as he got in the car.

Barton sped off. He arrived at the factory before the FBI “Thompson we have to get out of here the FBI just picked up the kid. He’s Goldman’s son.”

“What about him.” Thompson pointed at Steve

“Throw him in the chamber.” Barton ordered.

“Get up Austin.” Thompson shouted.

Steve did as he was told. Marc was safe and help was on it way.

Thompson shoved Steve into a small room He thumped him on the head with a lead pipe he closed the door and turned on the gas…

After showing the agents where the factory was, the FBI agents dropped Marc off at their Tucson Office. “He showed us the factory where they are holding Austin.” Agent Peterson said to his partner as they headed out to assist Steve.

They arrived at the factory just as Barton and Thompson were trying to make their escape Based on Marc’s description of Barton They grabbed him.

“You’re to late for Austin. I’m sure he’s dead by now.” Thompson snorted. “We put in a gas chamber.” He continued laughing.

Inside the room Steve started to come around. The gas was getting thick. Steve chocked and coughed. “What is going on? I can hardly breathe.” Steve asked himself.

He fought to stay conscious, as the gas grew thicker. “If I could just make it to the door. Who ever put me in here must have been pretty smart.” Steve continued to talk to himself. “They put me clear over on the other side of the ‘chamber’.” Steve continued to think.

It took all of his strength but he managed to make his way over to the door just as he was about to force it open he passed out again.

Peterson and Fritz raced up to the stairs. It too a few minutes to find the office where Steve was.

They opened the chamber and found Steve on the floor He was just starting to come around again. They pulled him out.

Slowly Steve managed to sit up.

“Col. Austin?” They asked as they assisted him in sitting up.

Steve not knowing whom he was dealing with gave them a blank look.

“I’m agent Peterson this is my partner Bill Fritz of the FBI. Mr. Goldman phoned us and asked us to lend our assistance. “

“Boy! Am I ever glad to see you.” Steve chocked as he tried to breathe in the fresh air. He gulped in the air. “Do you have Marc?” Steve asked still choking on the gas that filled his lungs.

“Yea Marc is safe He’s at headquarters.”

“What about Barton and Thompson?” Steve continued to cough.

“Barton and Thompson are in custody. We have been after those two for some time.” Peterson told him. “Thanks for helping us capture him.”

“No problem. I want to see Marc.” Steve said as he continued to cough.

“Maybe we better get you to a Dr. first.” Peterson advised. “You don’t sound very good.” Peterson continued.

“That’s ok I’ll be fine. I’ll see my own Doctor when I get back to DC.” Steve told him “I just want to see Marc. I want to make sure he’s alright.”

“He’s fine. I can have a Dr. here in five minutes.” Peterson went on

“No, no really. I feel better. I have my own Dr. in DC. He’ll take care of me.” Steve told them.

“Ok we’ll take you to Marc then.” Peterson gave Steve a ride to their office in down town Tucson.

“Steve!” Marc called when he saw Steve coming the door. “Are you all right?”

“Yea I’m fine partner. How about you? Are you ok?”

“Yea I’m fine. Agent Peterson gave me a cap and everything.” Marc smiled.

“Well that’s good.” He turned to Peterson and Fritz. “Thanks for taking care of him.”

“No problem. Tell Goldman he has a pretty special son.”

“I’ll do that.” He looked at Marc and smiled. “I’m sure he already knows that.”

“Don’t forget you should really see a Doctor.” Fritz advised.

“I will.” Steve promised. He turned back to Mar ”Why don’t we get back to Washington?” Steve suggested.

“I’m ready.” Marc agreed.

“We’ll give you a ride to the airport.” Peterson said.

“Thanks I appreciate that.” Steve shook hands.

“You take care of him son.” Peterson shook Marc’s hand.

“I will sir.” Marc promised.

Steve put his arm around Marc. “Thanks a lot Partner.” Steve told him. “Let’s go home.”

“That’s ok Steve.” Marc returned the hug. “I’m just glad you’re alright. I’m ready to go home”

“I suppose we better give your dad a call I’m sure he’s worried about us” Steve turned to the agents beside him. “I need to call Goldman. Can I use you phone.”

“Of course Col. Austin.” Fritz said as he handed him the receiver.

Oscar and the rest of the gang sat by the phone waiting for Steve to call.

“You haven’t heard anymore have you Oscar.” Jaime said returning from checking on the kids.

“No Jaime not yet.” Oscar sighed.

“The FBI has Marc though right?” Rudy wondered.

‘I don’t know Rudy. The last I heard, they were on there to pick him up.”

“So you have heard nothing since you spoke to them.”

“No I haven’t heard anything.” Oscar sighed. “I’m starting to think we may never see them again.”

“Don’t think that way Oscar.” Jaime cried. “They’re fine. I’m….”

The phone rang and Oscar grabbed it. “Steve!”

“Yea Oscar. I’m fine. Marc is right beside me. Do you want to pick us up at Dulles? We’ll be on flight 2074 it will arrive at 8:00 your time.”

“We’ll be there Steve” Oscar called into the phone.

“Was that Steve?” Jaime asked when Oscar hung up the phone.

“Yea he and Marc are on their way back. They’ll be here at eight.”

“Are they all right?” Rudy asked.

“Well Marc is all right for the moment anyway. I’m not going to guarantee it when he gets back.” Oscar complained.

“Don’t be to hard on him Oscar. He was only trying to help.” Jaime stated.

“Well we’ll see.” Oscar said. “He’ll be lucky if he is able to sit down by the time school starts.”

“Oh Oscar Don’t.” Jaime pleaded. “Like I said…”

“He was only trying to help.” I know that. ‘But Jaime he has to learn he can’t just up and run off across the country by himself.” Oscar reminded.

“Well we’ll see when he gets home.” Oscar was calmer now. “I just want to protect him Jaime.”

“I know. And Marc only wants to protect Steve.” Jaime added.

“Yea I guess you’re right. “ Oscar sighed.

“Its not all Marc’s fault either Oscar.” Rudy reminded. “He ran away because he thought I was leaving.”

“Yea I’d forgotten about that. Ok maybe I will go easy on him.”

At eight they were at Dulles waiting for Steve’s plane to land.

“There they are!” Oscar called as he watched Steve and Marc come down the steps of the plane. They ran to the gate to greet them.

“Glad you’re back Steve.” Oscar noted. Then he turned to Marc. “Now as for you…”

“Hi dad.” Marc spoke softly. “Grounded for life, right?”

“You’ll be lucky if it’s only for that long.” Oscar grabbed him by his collar. “Marc I’m sorry you felt you had to run away. You know Rudy has decided to stay? He’s not leaving.”

“Really? Rudy is staying?” Marc smiled.

“I’m sorry no one told you Marc.” Oscar leaned over to him. “Listen I’m just glad your both back and are safe.”

Steve turned to Jaime “I’ll tell you that was close one.” Steve told Jaime

“Really, what do you mean?” Jaime asked.

“I think they were on to me from the start. I’m actually kind of glad Marc showed up.” Steve said as they all made their way through the airport.

“What happened?” Jaime asked.

“It’s a long story. I’ll tell you later. Like I said. I’m glad Marc showed up.”

“He was a help then?” Oscar asked.

“He sure was. He’s the one who called you. If the FBI hadn’t showed up when they did…”

“That bad huh?” Oscar asked.

Steve fabricated what had happened just a bit mainly to keep Marc from getting into to much trouble.

“Yea. I was glad he was there.” Steve finished.

They got into Oscar’s car and headed back to Oscar’s house. Rudy was waiting when they walked through the door.

“Steve? Are you alright?” Rudy asked.

“Yea Rudy I’m fine.” Steve told him.

“How about your legs?” Rudy pressed. “How did the hold up? I mean do you have any trouble with them?”

“No Rudy. As a matter of fact I didn’t. In fact they seem to be just fine. Of course ” Steve replied. “On the other hand I really didn’t use them bionicly, so I’m really not sure.”

“Ok then we’ll test them in a couple of days.” Rudy speculated.

“Yea sure Rudy. Just let me know when.”

“Steve?” Marc started “Why did Agent Paterson want you to see a Dr.?” Marc asked.

Rudy turned to him. “Anything wrong?”

“I’m fine now.” Steve explained what had happened. ‘But I’m breathing fine now Rudy.”

“You better let me be the judge of that. I think I better take to the lab and check you out.”

“Aw come on Rudy. I told you I was fine.” Steve complained.

“Steve you’re worse than the twins.” Rudy noted. “It will only take five minutes and if you’re a really good boy I’ll let you pick something out of the kids treat box.” Rudy teased.

Really Rudy I’m…”

“Steve Austin. You go with Rudy right now!” Jaime ordered. “And Rudy don’t let him pick anything unless he’s really good.”

”Got ya!” Rudy winked at her.

“Oh all right. But I feel fine.” Steve continued to gripe all the way to the lab.

Steve let Rudy check him over. “You’re right. You’re fine.” Rudy announced.

“See I told you.” Steve interrupted.

“Well now that I have you here, we might as well test your legs.”

“Sounds good to me.” Steve agreed.

“Why not get on the treadmill and show me huh?”

Steve ran as good as or better than he had before.

“Well looks like everything is just fine.” Rudy said. “ think everything is back to normal.”

“Well that’s good.” Steve stated. “I can go then.”

“Go ahead. See you later.”

“Yea. Later Rudy.”

Steve left the lab and joined Jaime who was waiting for him. “You heard.”

“Yea. Let’s go home.”

“Sounds good to me.”