It was dark when the man dressed in black sprinted across the manicured lawn. He was well trained thanks to the US military. It was time for Lyle Stenning to get what was coming to him. The determined man already had the layout of the property and its elaborate security system committed to memory thanks to weeks of meticulous preparation and the help of a friend. Gaining access to Stenning would be as easy as knocking on the front door. Unfortunately there was also an armed security guard that would likely hinder his progress should they meet since he, himself, traveled unarmed. This was a covert operation and guns made too much noise besides this skilled man didn’t need weapons. Stenning would die by his own hand….this was personal.

The move to the second floor balcony was smooth. After breaking and redirecting the circuit for the alarm with a folded piece of foil the tall man slid the glass door open and entered Stenning bedroom unnoticed. As the door was closed the foil dropped unnoticed to the ground. He woke the sleeping man with a hand on his mouth; fearful, bulging eyes recognized his uninvited visitor immediately. The unexpected guest allowed the home’s owner to stand and they had a few heated but hushed words. It was then Lyle Stenning was pushed up against the wall and the life was snuffed out of him.

The short scuffle was not without noise and soon a guard was coming down the hall. The intruder couldn’t go out the way he came so he moved through the shadows down the corridor. The running man turned back to judge his options and shots rang out. The murderer felt the impact on his left temple as the bullet ricocheted off the wall. The impact dropped him to the floor face down, his head glancing of a heavy piece of furniture. He managed to stay conscious knowing if he passed out he’d be dead or arrested.

Staggering to his feet quickly he ran down a back staircase and out the backdoor, ignoring the now blaring alarm. He hid himself amongst the trees trying to catch his breath as he wiped the blood from his face. Evade and escape was now his top priority.

The following morning Oscar and Rudy talked over coffee in the director’s office. They were casually discussing their concerns over not hearing from Steve since they left him in Ojai. Steve wasn’t even returning Jaime’s calls. Tossing around the idea of returning to the small California town, Rudy wasn’t sure Oscar’s presence on Steve’s doorstep was such a great idea.

Their conversation was interrupted by a phone call from Russ, Oscar’s assistant. It was a short call but it left Oscar with a look of deep concern on his face.

Rudy inquired, “What is it Oscar?”

“Lyle Stenning was found murdered in his home last night.”

Rudy’s brow wrinkled, “Isn’t that good news?”

“I’m not sure.” He replied quietly, his mind going over Russ’ initial report. “Rudy, do you think Steve is capable…’

“Absolutely not!” The doctor interrupted knowing where the question was going.

“I hope you’re right.”

That afternoon Rudy was called to the director’s office as Russ provided the preliminary police report from Texas. Oscar took and read it fully. Pulling off his gold-rimmed glasses he looked at an anxious Rudy.

“It would seem Stenning was killed by strangulation at his very heavily secured home. There were no signs of forced entry. Stenning’s security guard got off a few shots at the assailant but didn’t get a good look at him. The only evidence found was a small blood spatter on the hallway floor.”

Rudy had to ask, “What type was it?”

“B+” The doctor’s face fell. “That’s Steve’s blood type.”

Karen opened her sleepy eyes and stretched cat-like on the double bed. She felt a little lighter today and chalked it up to her emotional release yesterday. She hopped into the shower and quickly bathed. After getting dressed she looked into the mirror and smiled, the memory of yesterday so fresh in her mind. It felt wonderful to be held in Steve’s arms, something she craved more and more these past few days.

She didn’t hear any noise in the house and wondered if Steve was still asleep or if he was already gone for the day. If he was sleeping this late he would be in serious need of coffee. She turned the machine on and while the dark liquid dripped to fill the glass carafe she went in search of Steve.

She slowly opened the bedroom door, her searching eyes following the line of scattered clothes on the floor until they fell upon the sleeping form in the bed. Steve was lying face down on a diagonal across the large bed, his feet closest to her with the sheet tangled around his legs to his waist. She quietly entered, picking up his clothes as she went and placing them at the foot of the bed. Slithering onto the bed behind him she watched his tanned muscular back rise and fall with each breath. She smiled and fought the urge to caress the smooth skin.

Looking at the clock on the night stand she was surprised it was almost noon and he was still sound asleep. It was unlike Steve to sleep so late. Biting her lip she gently touched his shoulder. “Steve?... Steve?” Her touch elicited a muffled groan from the supine man. “Steve it’s time to get up..it’s almost noon.”

Steve cracked open his eyes and moaned at the discomfort it brought him. Karen became concerned at the painful sounds coming from the other side of the bed. She leaned over him. “Steve?”

He shifted under the sheets and struggled to roll onto his back, his hand immediately coming to his forehead. Before his hand covered his head the young woman gasped. “My god Steve, you’re hurt.” She grabbed his hand to prevent him from touching the purple bruise on his left cheek that was accented by a laceration on his temple that was about two inches long and covered in dried blood. “What happened to you?” She demanded.

Steve’s mind tried to focus but his memory was fuzzy from the pounding in his head. He didn’t notice she had left the bed and returned with a warm washcloth. “I think I wrecked my car.”

“You think? Where were you last night?” She placed his hand over the cloth to hold it in place. “Here hold this I need to get some ice.” He didn’t reply. While she was in the kitchen she glanced out and saw that Steve’s car was not in the garage or driveway. She quickly wrapped the ice in a clean dishtowel and headed back.

“Here.” She gently placed the cold ice on his bruise. “So where were you last night?”

“I’m not sure.” He sat up in the edge of the bed with a groan and tried to get his bearings. He stood and headed to the bathroom. Before getting there he stopped and grabbed the doorframe as a wave of dizziness hit him hard. Karen jumped to his side and supported him.

“Steve you probably have a concussion. You need to see a doctor.”

“No.” He replied knowing that would require calling Rudy, which would probably bring Oscar. “No, I’ll be fine after a hot shower.”

“Steve I’m not sure you should be getting in the shower. What if you fall?”

He gave her a weak smile, “Are you suggesting that you join me?”

“No.” she said with exaggerated shock. “How about I just stand outside the shower just in case?”

“Whatever makes you happy. “ He mumbled and started the water running. His movements were slow and deliberate as to not increase the dizziness and nausea that were threatening him. She assisted him with getting dressed and after he refused to get back in bed she walked him into the living room.

Lunch was made and she delivered a tray to the couch but her patient was sound asleep. She smiled and placed a quilt over him. She wondered if she should contact a physician, concussions were not something that should be taken lightly. She lifted the wrist that was closest to her, the left one, and took his pulse which was normal. She decided not to call a doctor right away hoping to keep him resting for the day.

The experienced nurse checked him almost every hour. He didn’t resist when she treated the wound and thanked her for her help before dozing off once again.

It was late in the evening when Oscar told Rudy he was flying to Ojai to see Steve and inform him of Stenning’s death. Rudy agreed to accompany him. The two men were headed out of Oscar’s office when Russ rushed in, almost colliding with his boss.

“Russ what’s wrong?” The director said.

“Hansen got wind of Stenning’s death and has the official police report.”

“So?”

The lanky man took a moment to try and catch his breath after running the stairs between floors. “He wants to pin it on Steve.”

“What?” Oscar and Rudy exclaimed.

Russ nodded. “Something in the report he received set him off.”

“What was in the completed report from the San Antonio Police Department?”

“I don’t know I didn’t get a look at it. Hansen’s on his way to the airport right now to take Steve into custody.” Russ watched the two men before him for a second then asked, “You don’t think Steve did this do you?”

Neither man answered as they rushed out the door hoping to catch Hansen, Deputy Director of the National Security Bureau, at the airport before he boarded his plane.

Oscar and Rudy were able to intercept Deputy Director Hansen as he walked across the tarmac headed to the government-owned Lear Jet. The short stocky man, looking haggard in his business suit turned in surprise when he heard the screeching of tires. He didn’t let his frustration and disappointment show on his face at the arrival. He had hoped to get out of Washington before Goldman heard of the events unfolding. He had pushed his men hard for the past 24 hours to complete a swift and thorough investigation. His leather briefcase held all he needed to know before going to get Steve Austin.

The mustached man watched Goldman and Wells exit their vehicle and forced his body to relax, the evidence would speak for itself, he had nothing to be concerned about.

The two men stood nose to nose while Dr. Wells stood on Oscar’s left. “What can I do for you Mr. Goldman? As you can see I have a plane to catch.”

“Oh, I think you know damn well why we’re here. It has come to my attention that you are headed to California to arrest Steve Austin.

Hansen remained calm and professional in his reply, “Not ‘arrest’, ‘take into custody’ for questioning in the murder of Lyle Stenning. If you will excuse me…”

“Hansen wait!” The director stopped the man with a hand on his chest. Hansen’s hazel eyes glared down at the halting gesture then moved up to meet Oscar’s face. “If you think you can prevent me or this investigation from uncovering the truth you’re sadly mistaken.”

Rudy spoke up, “And what truth would that be?”

“That your six million dollar cyborg appointed himself judge, jury and executioner. He committed cold-blooded murder.”

“You know Steve would not murder anyone in cold blood.” Oscar replied in a stern voice, glaring at the arrogant man.

“No Oscar I don’t know that for sure and before you sacrifice your position or reputation to protect your favorite operative I suggest you wait for his trial. You may be surprised to find out he’s not the Boy Scout he appears to be. I don’t want the OSI interfering in this.”

“Why is that? Are you afraid my office might uncover evidence that will contradict YOUR truth?” The former California prosecutor challenged.

Hansen was getting angry at the tall man’s insinuation that he would bend the evidence to fit his suspect. “I don’t want you exercising your authority to protect your golden boy.”

Oscar let a small smile relax his stern look. “I’ll have you know Steve Austin isn’t one of my operatives anymore. His resignation has been sitting on my desk for weeks.” Oscar was sure this small bit of information would lessen Hansen’s defensiveness enough to provide more information from his investigation. He never thought it might be used as another nail in Steve’s coffin.

Hansen did not react to the fact he was just given, just filed it away until he could use it. “What exactly do you want Goldman?”

“I want to discuss your investigative findings BEFORE you go to Ojai. If your proof is as strong as you say, and this isn’t just a witch hunt, Dr. Wells and I will accompany you there.” Hansen didn’t immediately respond as he tried to decipher Oscar’s true intentions. “I have every right to be there when you question him.”

Hansen let out a long exhale and checked his watch. It was getting late but he could still get to California by morning and still get Austin, his team of agents already doing surveillance on their man. “Okay fine. Let’s find a private office and discuss it.” He walked away from the plane realizing he had to remain professional and diplomatic. Oscar Goldman had too much clout that could seriously damage his career.

Closing the office door after the director and doctor entered the three settled into the straight back chairs at the table. The two OSI man watched Hansen place his briefcase on the table with an authoritative manner and began working the lock. The clips flew up with the pressure of his thumbs.

Oscar and Rudy stared at him removing a 1-inch thick file and placing it on the table. “This is the completed report from the San Antonia Police Department.” He reached in and retrieved a 3-inch thick file and laid it next to the other. “This is the results, up to today, on my team’s investigation.”

Two sets of brown eyes looked at the man and saw the slightest hint of a smile as he added, “It doesn’t look good for your star quarterback.”

Back in sunny Ojai Steve was feeling much better by dinnertime. He awoke well rested and surprised Karen as she was putting the finishing touches on dinner. She smiled seeing more life in his eyes.

“You certainly look better.” She gave him a wink and grabbed another plate from the cabinet.

“Well I have an excellent nurse.” He smiled and smelled the aroma coming from the open pot. “This smells pretty good.”

“Not only am I a good nurse but I’m also a good cook. Are you feeling up to eating?”

Steve nodded and rubbed his stomach, “Yeah, I think the nausea and headache were more from the hangover than this.’ His gently touched his bruised face.

“Nice try but I still say you have a concussion. Now sit and eat.”

The couple shared a hearty meal. Karen was relaxed seeing Steve’s appetite had finally returned. Since she arrived he didn’t eat much any time of day. ‘Whatever happened last night must have done him some good even though he looks a little worse for wear.’ She thought as she began clearing the table.

After dinner the two took a slow walk in the warm evening. Steve was a little surprised and happy when his ex-wife slid her hand into his. The handsome man gave it a slight squeeze and smiled at her. “Steve what happened last night?”

“You cried yourself to sleep and I put you to bed.” He replied simply.

Karen chuckled at his attempt to avoid the topic. “No…where did you go and where is your car?” He stopped and looked at her, quickly dropping his head. “Steve what’s wrong? He kept his head bowed, unable to look her in the eye. “I did something last night that I’m not very proud of.”

She watched him struggle with his thoughts. A loving touch to his cheek caused him to lift his head and stare into her emerald green eyes, eyes that wandered over the bruising on his face. After a forced exhale he spoke.

“When I left last night I headed to Jack’s bar. I had some things on my mind. I didn’t intend to drink so much but…I guess I had too many and tried to drive home.”

“Steve you should have called me… or a cab.”

“I know. It was stupid. I shouldn’t have been driving in that condition. I could have killed someone.”

“Yes, including you.”

“AJ is towing my car back here tomorrow.”

“Where did it happen?”

Steve gestured with a nod, “About three miles down the road. I took out some of the fence line on my property and some of Arlen’s, my neighbor.” His eyes stared off into the distance.” I’ll have to get out there first thing tomorrow and fix it.”

When he turned back to look at her she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around his lean waist, resting her blonde head on his shoulder. “I’m just glad you weren’t seriously hurt. I can’t believe you walked three miles with a concussion.”

She felt his body tremble as a giggle escaped his lips. He squeezed her tight. “That’s one of the few advantages of being drunk. No pain.” His hands ran the length of her toned back, enjoying the feel of her warm, feminine body pressed against his. “Come on. Let’s go inside.” He whispered.

“Just so I don’t waste any time, what do you know about Stenning’s death so far.” Hansen asked leaning forward on his elbows, his hands clasped together.

Oscar replied, “I read that the intruder got past the security alarms, entered through a second story balcony door and that Stenning died of strangulation. I also recall the security guard could not identify the person he saw running from the bedroom.”

“That’s partly true. The guard stated that the suspect was dressed all in black, black clothes, black shoes, black gloves and face paint. There was no evidence of how the suspect got to the second floor. The police couldn’t figure it out either,… no trellis, rope, pipes, nothing.” Hansen eyed the two men as if to say ‘we all know a bionic man could scale a building without leaving any evidence behind. “As for the cause of death…Stenning did die of asphyxiation, the suspect strangled him.”

“And?” Oscar asked hearing the cocky tone in Hansen’s voice.

He reached into his briefcase and pulled out a forensic photograph of the victim’s neck. “The marks clearly show the murderer only used one hand…. his right hand.”

Oscar and Rudy stared at the photo letting the words sink through their doubts. Oscar, having much experience in the legal field before coming to the OSI, began to try and put holes in the evidence. “You know there are many men out there with military backgrounds that are trained to kill with their bare hands. Some are even strong enough to do the job one handed. There are many ex-military working for Stenning and for his enemies.” Rudy let out a breath letting his body relax a bit, still confident Steve did not commit this crime.

Hansen smiled the most arrogant smile Oscar had ever seen. A large envelope was placed between the men. “Maybe Dr. Wells can help explain this piece of evidence.” He pulled the x-ray film from the yellow envelope marked ‘Coroner’s Office and handed it to Rudy. “I agree with you that there are a few men out there that could kill someone with one hand but I only know of one that could also crush a man’s vertebrae in the process.”

Oscar’s shocked expression was mirrored by Rudy who immediately held the radiological film up to the light. One of Stenning’s cervical vertebrae was crushed. There was silence in the small room as Hansen reveled in watching Oscar and Rudy choke down their fear.

Placing the evidence back into his briefcase the three men silently moved to board the plane. They planned to arrive in California by midnight. The flight would be quiet with one man scribbling notes on a paper pad and the other two lost in their own thoughts and conjectures that contradicted their beliefs.

The three men got hotel rooms for the night and made plans to meet in the lobby at 8 am. Rudy and Oscar had adjoining rooms and were sitting in Oscar’s room, sipping stiff drinks, while they discussed the unbelievable situation.

Rudy, slouched in an upholstered chair, spoke first. “I just can’t believe Steve could have done this. Do you?”

On the bed Oscar stretched out his long legs and rested his arm behind his head, thought a moment before answering. “Twenty four hours ago I would have said no. Now I just don’t know.”

“You know it’s not in his nature to murder someone.”

“That’s true but maybe Michael’s death changed him in ways we don’t know.”

“I’m not looking forward to seeing Steve tomorrow.” The doctor thought for a moment then finished, “He’s going to be angry if he is accused of something he didn’t do and angry if Hansen is the one to catch him doing something he did do.”

“Do you think he might do something stupid?” Oscar eyed the doctor.

Rudy shrugged, “I have no idea what he’s going to do when we show up with Hansen. I do know we need to try and get some sleep.” The physician stood and ambled towards his room knowing neither would fine sleeping easy tonight.

Karen slid her dark green terrycloth robe over her slender, damp body then wound a towel around her long wet hair and propped it on the top of her head. She wandered out of the steamy bathroom and her heart warmed at the sight. Steve was lying on his back sleeping peacefully under the crisp white sheet. She carefully sat with one of her legs under her and rested her back against the headboard. Her movement, shaking the bed, did not disturb the handsome man’s slumber.

The pretty woman let out a contented sigh as she watched the easy rise and fall of the three pairs of well-toned abdominal muscles sticking out from the covering. She closed her eyes and rested her toweled head against the wall remembering last night. A spiritual experience with physical release like none she had ever had before. The only way to describe it was soul-stirring.

Her green eyes opened and stared at his left profile, his face turned away. She knew, from past experience, that Steve was a skilled, gentle and unselfish lover but last night showed her that during the twenty years they were apart he had obviously improved on his techniques, taking them beyond any level she could have imagined.

She closed her eyes again remembering his sweet words of love and affection, words that matched the sensual pleasure he was lavishing on her. He took her completely by surprise when, after their intimate session concluded, he brought up the topic of marriage. She couldn’t answer him at the time with any definite answer either way but he seemed fine with her request that she take some tome to think it over. Then the two fell asleep in each other’s arms.

For a few moments she let her mind wander staring at his sleeping form. She slithered down on her elbow to lie on her side next to him. A devilish smile graced her lips as she reached out and stroked his left earlobe between her index and middle fingers. He stirred but did not waken and her smile grew. She ran a loving hand through his brown hair and he sighed. Being this physically close to him triggered an intense craving for his unclothed body, an addictive drug that was in her reach. She began to nuzzle his neck as she slipped her hand under the sheet at his waist.

He groaned and sleepily turned his head. “What are you doing?” He inquired in a relaxed tone while keeping his eyes closed.

She let out a soft giggle and whispered seductively into his ear, “Last night you said to make sure you were up by 7 am. It’s almost 6:45.”

Understanding her play on words his lopsided grin appeared and quickly grew into a smile as his heavy eyelids opened. She continued her tender ministrations and he moaned again before pulling her on top of him. She supported herself with her elbows on his chest. He reached up and pulled away the homemade turban to let her long damp tresses fall around her face and tickle his chest. “I guess I’m going to be late.” He said in a husky voice and pulled her down to claim her lips.

With a heavy sigh Karen responded to the ringing doorbell, surprised to find Oscar and Rudy standing with a third man she had never met. Hansen, expecting the bionic operative to greet them was dumbfounded by the statuesque blonde before him.

Displaying his ID he explained curtly, “My name is Hansen, Deputy Director of the National Security Bureau. You’re acquainted with Dr. Wells and Mr. Goldman. We are here to see Colonel Austin.” Karen smiled at the trio but her expression quickly turned serious when her eyes gazed at Oscar and Rudy’s apprehensive faces.

“Please come in.” She gestured politely with her arm and closed the door behind them. After leading them to the living room she explained Steve was not available at the moment. “He’s out fixing a damaged fence about three miles from here.” She glanced at her watch. “I expect him back soon.”

“Maybe we can drive down there and speak with him?”

“No. He went by horseback. You would probably miss him as he rode back.”

“I cannot stress how important it is that I speak with him as soon as possible.” Hansen stated sternly. She couldn’t help but notice the singular pronoun, Oscar and Rudy remaining silent.

“You make it sound like life or death Mr. Hansen.”

“That’s an interesting way to put it Ms…?”

“Austin. Karen Austin.” He looked surprised.

“I assume you are related to Steve?”

“I’m his ex-wife. Would you mind if I asked what is so important?” She glanced at the two familiar faces but couldn’t read them.

Hansen thought a moment and decided to use the situation to his advantage hoping the young, pretty woman was not as smart as she looked. “I’m here to question your ex-husband regarding the death of Lyle Stenning.” He eyed her closely for any reaction but got none. The blonde casually situated herself on the arm of the chair across from the couch where the director and physician had seated themselves, leaving Hansen standing alone.

“Have you ever heard of a Lyle Stenning?” He was grasping at straws that Steve may have shared his illegal activity with the mother of his son.

“Yes, Mr. Hansen, I’ve heard the name. If I’m not mistaken he is the man responsible for our son’s death.” She replied, her green eyes never leaving his.

The deputy director went with it. “So Steve has mentioned Stenning’s name to you?”

“Yes.”

“How recently?”

“A week or so ago. Why?”

When Hansen didn’t immediately answer she figured out his line of questioning. “If you are here to try and implicate Steve in that man’s death I’m afraid you are way off base. I’ve known Steve a long time and he doesn’t have the character of a murderer.”

Hansen changed his point of attack. “What is your relationship with Steve at this point in time?” He glared at her closely trying to assess her truthfulness.

Karen coolly returned the eye contact not intending to hide anything. “We just experienced a great loss. Our relationship is closer and stronger now then when we were married.”

“So you and he are…shall we say intimate?” He wanted to find out if this woman would protect the man he hunted.

“That is none of your business Mr. Hansen.”

“I’ll take that as a ‘yes’.

“You can take it any way you want. I don’t see what it has to do with your investigation.”

“I’m just trying to ascertain to what lengths you would go to protect him.” He glared at her but she wouldn’t even flinch.

“There is no need for me to protect Steve. He’s not responsible for Stenning’s death.” The sound of hoof beats brought everyone’s attention to the window.

Hansen commented dryly, “I believe otherwise.”

“Well there he is. Ask him all the questions you want.”

Outside the small group exiting the ranch style home watched as Steve, clad in a now dirty white t-shirt, jeans and cowboy boots, dismounted his horse. In such a rural setting he was able to use his bionic to fix the fence quickly and return home. The morning sun beat down and urged him to get the job done as efficiently as possible.

The three well-dressed men approached him from behind as he began untying the saddlebags that held his tools. Hansen couldn’t wait to get his claws into him. “Austin I’m here to take you in for questioning.” He stated with authority. Steve’s shoulders slumped at the sound of the familiar voice that grated on his nerves every time he heard it. He looked towards the ground a moment already aware of what Hansen wanted to question him about. What he didn’t expect were his two friends to be in on the inquisition. He slowly turned to face them.

The expressions on their faces as they noticed the bruise and newly acquired laceration on Steve’s face were mixed. Oscar had a look of shock, Rudy showed concern and Hansen had a smirk that expressed his confidence that they had the right man.

Hansen couldn’t wait, “Interesting wounds you got there. When did you get them?”

“Two nights ago.” Steve stated plainly. He had all but forgotten about them. Rudy asked directly, “What happened Steve?”

“I wrecked my car. I hit a tree and took out part of the fencing. I was out fixing it this morning.”

“Are you sure that’s how it happened?” The NSB agent taunted.

“Hansen I think I can remember how it occurred.”

“I see. Well, as I said I’m here to take you in for questioning regarding Lyle Stenning’s death.”

Steve looked down and fingered the leather bag in his hands, letting out a sigh. “You don’t seem surprised at the news.” Hansen observed out loud.

Steve looked up to glare at the stocky man. “Stenning was in a very dangerous business. He had a lot of enemies. It was bound to catch up with him sometime.” Oscar and Rudy watched Steve closely, his reaction not at all what they had expected.

“Let me get cleaned up.” He turned to enter the house when he heard Hansen yell out. “Where’s you car Austin?” Steve stopped and turned. “In the garage.” Turning again he left them outside.

“Come on.” Hansen led the way to the garage and opened the large door. The three walked to the driver’s side and saw the crushed front panel and door. Closer examination showed a cracked driver’s side window, a spider-web like design traveling from a center point of impact. Hansen would not be persuaded. He mumbled his thoughts aloud. “For all we know he could have bionically pushed his car into the fence and tree.”

“There’s blood on the window.” Oscar noted.

“So, after taking the bullet crease from Stenning’s guard he could have wiped it on there after the fact.”

“Let’s go inside. I want to call my men to test this window for hairs and blood type.” Oscar retorted needing to help Steve any way he could.

Steve grabbed a quick shower and changed. Oscar called his team in and Hansen was anxious to get Steve to the NSB offices. The three were sitting idly waiting for Steve when Oscar spoke the obvious. “You know, because of the security issues, you can’t put him on trial in front of a jury.”

“I’m well aware of that but I can put him in front of a panel of his peers with high security grades. They can hear his story and my evidence.”

Steve came into the room looking refreshed and ready for his interrogation. “Let’s go.” He said calmly and led then from the house. Before getting into the car Karen offered to go along but Steve declined. The couple stood together, her hands about his narrow waist and his at her shoulders. “I’ll call you as soon as I can.” He saw the fear in her eyes. “It’ll be okay. Trust me.” She smiled and he winked before placing a loving kiss on her lips.

Feeling helpless, Oscar stood with Rudy in the dark room staring at Steve through the large window. They watched as Hansen stood across the room from their friend who sat silently in a straight chair at the rectangular table, his hands relaxed on his lap and his eyes focused straight ahead at the painted grey wall. He assumed he was being watched and monitored from the other side of the one-way mirror.

“Okay Austin let’s get to it. I want to now everything you’ve been up to since your stay at the medical center. First off why was Harry Donner so willing to seek you out when everyone knows the last time you saw him you broke his nose.”

Steve shrugged and replied calmly, “How should I know? One day he just showed up.”

“I see and after he gave you his heart felt apologies you decided to let bygones be bygones. Is that right?” The sarcasm dripped from his lips with each uttered word.

Steve just nodded affirmatively, not elaborating on the subject.

“Why did you go to Ojai after Dr. Wells repeatedly requested you stay in Washington?”

“I wanted to go home…sleep in my own bed… in my own house.”

“Why did you suddenly resign your position at the OSI?”

Steve thought a moment then explained, “Because I wanted to sever my ties with the agency. My son is dead because of my association with the OSI. Isn’t that enough?”

Hansen sat down next to his suspect and leaned in closely. “Do you want to know what I think? I think you went to Ojai to be alone. Then no one would get wise to your elaborate plan to kill Stenning. Isn’t that more like it? Isn’t that why you got rid of every agent the OSI sent to protect you? Your resignation was just a way to protect Oscar Goldman and his career after you carried out your planned execution.”

Steve did not reply. He sat stoically and waited for the next question trying to keep his cool. Hansen taunted as he stood to pace the room, “I have a theory about Harry Donner.” The topic peaked Steve’s interest but he didn’t allow it to show. “I think that Harry wanted to make amends for his past transgressions towards you. After investigating his activities I found it very interesting that between his first visit to you in the hospital and the second night he dropped by he spent an unusual amount of time with his friends in the OSI security department during his day off.”

Steve looked Hansen in his grey eyes. “So?”

“According to your nurse Donner gave you audio tapes and a cassette player during that second visit. What were on those tapes?”

“Music.”

“Come on Austin, I wasn’t born yesterday. What else was on those tapes?”

Oscar and Rudy were riveted to the scene. They had yet to hear all of Hansen’s theory of how Steve could pull off such an elaborate plan. The deputy director’s ideas had their full attention.

Steve remained silent, staring off at the wall. Hansen was getting frustrated and continued to pace the narrow room. “Here’s what I think happened. I think Harry Donner, after getting filled in on what happened to you and your son decided to help. After meeting with you the first time he went to his friends at the OSI and collected some information, information that he loaded onto those tapes which he passed on to you.” The stocky man stopped and leaned over Steve’s shoulder to get a reaction. Steve remained calm and collected letting Hansen continue his story telling. “I know what was probably on those tapes. I’m sure there were one or two songs at the beginning and end of each but in between I would bet my life there was information passed onto you by Harry Donner.”

...Continued