“Steve?” The call was soft but urgent. “Steve, can you hear me?”

The small slivers of blue doubled in size as Steve forced his lids open half way. He gradually focused on the dark haired man leaning over him but didn’t immediately recognize the voice.

“Steve, I need you to wake up.”

The voice hit a familiar note, “Michael?”

“Yeah, Steve it’s me.”

“Where’s… Rudy?” He asked knowing something bad must have happened to keep Rudy from him if he was injured. Although he didn’t remember what happened at the farmhouse he still remembered the events surrounding Rudy and Michelle. “Is he okay?”

“Yes, he’s fine.”

With an attempt to lift his head he winced involuntarily at the dull pain that hit him. “Take it easy Steve.” Michael ordered as he placed a gentle hand on Steve’s shoulder. “Does your head hurt?”

Steve’s eyes remained closed as he replied, “Not too bad. I’ve had hangovers that were worse.” Michael smiled at the humorous response then the smile fell from his face. Seeing how Steve was conscious and lucid he needed to be told of the situation immediately.

“Steve we need to talk.”

“About what?” He whispered with his eyes closed.

“About your injury?”

The blue eyes opened and the brow furled, “It feels like a concussion. Isn’t that why I’m feeling like my head weighs a ton?”

Michael nodded negatively. “Not exactly, although the symptoms may be similar.”

“Symptoms of what?” The doctor had Steve’s complete attention.

Dr. Marchetti took a deep breath, never enjoying this part of his job. “Steve, what’s the last thing you remember?”

The injured man thought a moment then answered, “Parking my car at a gas station…. I was looking for Rudy.”

Michael nodded, “That’s right. Anything else?” Steve nodded negatively and saw the sad look on the young physician’s face. “Tell me Michael.”

“Okay.” He took another breath trying his best not to draw this too far out. “You did find Rudy. I’m not sure of the specifics but when Oscar arrived you had been shot… in the head.” Steve hand immediately rose to his temple and felt the square piece of gauze and the small circular indentation under it. He looked at Michael and knew if he had had brain surgery his whole head would be wrapped, “It’s still in there isn’t it?”

Michael nodded affirmatively. “Steve, the brain scan shows it’s deep in the brain, so deep that we are unable to just go in and remove it.”

Steve’s head sank deep into the pillow as the weight of what the doctor was saying had pushed him down. “There’s more isn’t there?” Steve asked.

Nodding again he explained the time frame Steve was left with. There were no encouraging words that could be offered to the injured man. Michael stood to give the patient some privacy to work through the implications of the news when Steve’s voice stopped him.

“Michael, where’s Rudy?”

“He was taken into custody with Michelle. They are holding him on Conspiracy to steal a top secret weapon and possible treason.”

Steve’s gave him a small smile for his honesty. “Thanks Michael.”

“You’re welcome Steve.”

As soon as the door closed Steve stared at the ceiling. He knew Rudy well enough to know the doctor was carrying an immense amount of guilt from the events of the past three weeks. His thoughts then moved to the time he had left. One week, maybe two Michael had said. The former astronaut began to decide how he could make the most of the time he had left. Within minutes he was unable to remain awake and dozed off quickly.

Jaime arrived in Washington as soon as she could after getting Oscar’s call. Her thoughts were on Steve during the four-hour flight, only knowing her former fiancé was at the medical center with a head injury he sustained while on an assignment. Thinking back she realized Oscar remained elusive when she attempted to get more details from him. She made her way to the Medical Center as quickly as possible, her anxiety growing.

She approached the nurse’s station and asked for Dr. Wells only to be told he was not available but Dr. Marchetti would be back soon. The nurse knew Jaime from her previous stays at the hospital.

“Jaime, if you want to see Colonel Austin he’s in room 218. He’s allowed visitors.” The woman clad in a white uniform pointed to the hallway to her left. Jaime gave her smile of gratitude, thanked her and headed down the hall. Stepping into the room silently she placed her coat and purse on a chair then took a seat next to the bed on Steve’s left side. His face was turned toward her and she knew he was sound asleep by the steady rise and fall of his chest under the light blue cotton gown.

Glancing around she saw there were no monitors or supplemental oxygen on him so she assumed he must be doing well. She softly took his left hand in hers and stared at the handsome face with its rugged accents and the long dark lashes fanning across the tanned cheeks. Her curiosity grew, why would Oscar request her presence if Steve wasn’t seriously hurt?

Steve let out a sigh indicating to her he may be waking up. She was greeted with his blue eyes looking at her with a puzzled expression.

“Jaime?” He asked in disbelief.

She shrugged, “In the flesh. How are you doing?”

“Okay considering. Who told you I was here?”

“Oscar. Who else? He told me you had a head injury and I needed to come.” She gave him a smile. “You don’t look too bad off?”

Steve did not return the smile, his face remaining serious, “I guess it’s true what they say. Looks can be deceiving.”

“What do you mean?”

Steve took a deep breath and told Jaime the whole story beginning to end. She was overwhelmed at the circumstances surrounding Steve’s injury. It now made sense why Oscar had summoned her. The information was sinking in slowly, piece by piece but she refused to consider Steve’s prognosis, there had to be something they could do. Her thoughts were interrupted by Steve voice.

“Jaime, I need your help with some things.”

“Sure, anything.”

“I need you to drive me somewhere.” She stared at him as if he was speaking a foreign language. “But first I need your help to get dressed.”

“Steve, you’re here for a reason. I don’t think running all over the city is a good idea.”

“Jaime please…I’m fine except… I get tired very quickly.” He began sitting up and was doing pretty well until a dizzy spell hit just as he swung his legs over the bedside. “I just told you I have 7 days…7 days Jaime.” His eyes locked onto her to communicate the seriousness of his situation. “I have a lot to do.”

“I thought you said two weeks.”

“Michael was being optimistic. He said two weeks on the outside. I can’t count on that. As a matter of fact I don’t think I can count on the 7 days for sure.”

She stood to retrieve his clothes from the dresser drawer and began helping him dress. “What do you have in mind?”

“First I need to talk to Oscar.” He said matter-of-factly. “Rudy wasn’t involved in this and I need the Secretary to know that.” The pants, shoes and socks went smoothly. As Steve steadied himself while standing by the bed Jaime began buttoning his shirt.

“I really appreciate your help.” She focused on her task, her eyes on his chest finding it difficult to comprehend the dire circumstances. She tried to sound cheerful.

“You know I’d do anything for you. We’re friends remember… I’ll be here for you always.” He saw the crack in her armor start to grow, the tears filling her eyes when she choked, barely able to finish the sentence. He immediately wrapped his arms around her allowing her to cry herself out.

Michael entered the room at that moment and felt a pang of jealousy at the scene. He waited a few moments before intruding. “So what’s going on here?”

Jaime pulled back from Steve and wiped her face. “Just a woman unable to control her emotions.”

“No, I was talking about you.” He pointed to Steve. “What are doing out of bed and dressed?”

“Michael you don’t honestly think you can tell me I have one week to live and expect me to stay here in bed do you?”

The reality of his statement hit the doctor in the gut. He thought a moment before speaking. “Okay but we need to talk before you leave.”

“Okay shoot.”

“Remember I said the bullet can move when the swelling subsides?” Steve nodded. “I think both of you need to be prepared for what might happen.” Steve felt Jaime squeeze his hand in fear. He slid a comforting arm around her.

“Go on.”

“Well for right now you will be fairly functional although you will fatigue quickly. You’re going to have to pace yourself. When the swelling does decrease and the slug starts to move you’ll know by other symptoms like in dizziness, difficulty breathing and maybe some in-coordination.” Steve’s gazed moved to the floor as he considered what was being said to him. He would know when the end was near. His eyes returned to the doctor as he finished, “You need to get back here if any of those symptoms appear. Okay?”

“Why so I can be put on a ventilator and become a vegetable? I don’t think so Michael. I’m sorry. I truly appreciate your help but I need to attend to some things.” He led Jaime from the room. Michael held out a hand in friendship. “Good luck Steve. I hope all goes well.” Steve shook the hand and nodded before leaving the doctor alone in the room feeling helpless.

Callahan sat at her desk distractedly tapping her pen against a stack of files. Something was going on and she was trying to solve the mystery. Her boss was extremely preoccupied and now Steve and Jaime arrive unannounced and have been talking with Mr. Goldman for half an hour. The inquisitive secretary could not ignore the look of sadness she saw on Jaime’s face before they went into the closed office. Come to think of it Steve didn’t seem his usual friendly self either. She assured herself it was just concern over Dr. Wells’ predicament, something she had yet to hear the details on. Pulling out a file to type she was startled by the door swinging open.

“Steve, don’t do this.” Oscar pleaded as he followed a determined Steve and passive Jaime out the door and down the hall.

Steve spun around in frustration. “Don’t do what? Don’t try and save Rudy’s life… his future? Don’t step in and help him when he needs me? My God Oscar he’s carrying a lot of guilt over this.”

Oscar let out a deep breath to calm himself before speaking. “Steve I’m talking about how you plan on helping him.”

“It’s my life Oscar….all 7 days of it. I plan on betting it all, rolling the dice and hoping for the best.” His blue eyes begged his friend for his support. “I’ve got nothing to lose.” Soon the brown ones broke eye contact. “Alright let’s go.”

The red-headed secretary was surprised by the unexpected visitors heading past her desk and to the door of the Secretary’s office completely ignoring her cries to wait. Caught in mid-sentence the Secretary stared wide-eyed at the three people entering his office as he was meeting with his assistant.

“It’s alright Marilyn.”

“Yes, sir.” She replied, quietly closing the door behind the guests.

The gray-haired man, pushing retirement, stood to greet the trio. “Colonel Austin, it’s good to see you up and around. My assistant, Jay, and I were just discussing your case.” Steve remained stoic. “Would you care to share the details? I mean since it does concern me.” He eyed the taller man who took a step back just from the icy glare of the bionic operative. Steve was already informed by Oscar of what was going on behind closed doors. He wanted to hear it for himself.

“Please have a seat.”

The threesome took the only vacant seats left in the room. “Jay has made contact with two surgeons who say they can remove the bullet and possibly save your life Colonel.” He watched Steve’s face which remained serious. “Of course we will have to get their background’s checked before allowing them near you…. Security you understand.”

Steve gave his superior a smirk. “I don’t have the time for you to jump through all the hoops Mr. Secretary when there is already someone qualified who can do the job.” The distinguished diplomat leaned forward with his elbows on his desk. “I hope you are not referring to Dr. Peirot. As I see it she won’t be getting anywhere near the government’s…” His words faltered as he realized what he was about to say in Steve’s presence.

“Near the government’s what Mr. Secretary?” The older man, looking a little uncomfortable referring to the man in front of him as a capital asset which he usually did in Steve’s absence, shifted in his seat. Steve held up a hand before the man behind the large ornate desk could think of another, more appropriate word.

“The government’s what?..top secret weapon? valuable asset? One of only two cyborgs? Well?”

“Steve, please, I meant no offense. I think the surgeons Jay has located would do an exceptional job.”

“I’m sure they would if I would allow them… but I’m not.” The look on the Secretary’s face was one of sheer disbelief.

“What are you saying? You’d refuse medical treatment that will save your life?”

Steve shook his head. “That’s exactly what I’m saying. I won’t consent to the surgery.”

“That’s insane!” He blurted out wondering how he would explain the unnecessary loss of a six million dollar weapon to the President.

“Maybe.” Steve thought a moment before placing his offer on the table. “Of course there is always room for negotiation.” A small smile curled the right edge of his mouth enjoying manipulating his superior.

“Explain yourself.” He demanded.

“I will only allow the surgery to be performed by Dr. Rudy Wells.”

“No way.”

Steve immediately stood. “I’m sorry gentlemen. I’m afraid I’m a little short on time… so Miss Sommers and I must be going.” He turned and led Jaime to the door. It wasn’t until his hand was on the knob that the voice called out.

“Wait! Alright I’ll see what I can do.” The taller man was now standing as Oscar silently watched the deal being made from his seat.

Steve turned and walked to stand directly in front of the Secretary. Although Steve was a few inches shorter it was clear to everyone in the room he held all the power. “As you already know I don’t have much time so don’t yank my chain.”

“I’ll have Dr. Wells released to complete the surgery.” He nervously glanced at Oscar. “I guess a six million dollar investment is worth our best surgeon, don’t you think Oscar?”

Oscar didn’t reply knowing the candy coated compliment was implying how Steve was viewed by the higher ups.

Steve let another crooked grin come to his face. “That’s not all Mr. Secretary.” He glared at the man letting him know he would not budge. “I know for a fact Rudy Wells is innocent of what you are accusing him of. I want him released AND cleared of all charges against him.”

“Now wait one minute. The man is involved with a woman who attempted to steal top secret government property. I can’t get him cleared of the charges.”

“You can and you will Mr. Secretary or this six million dollar investment as you so affectionately refer to me as is retiring… permanently.” He turned again seeing Jaime still near the door and headed out. He knew his strength was fading fast and he wasn’t about to show it.

“Colonel.” He stopped but didn’t turn around. Jaime was the only one who could see his face display the tiredness that was overtaking him. “Are you really willing to gamble with your life to save Rudy’s future and reputation?”

Steve smiled and slowly turned. “Mr. Secretary in the past few years I have gambled my life on many other things that were much less important to me then Rudy’s life.” The observers in the room all knew Steve had hit his mark as he forced the Secretary to recall all the times Steve risked his life for his country.

“Alright. I’ll make the calls. I can’t say when he will be released but I’ll do my best.”

“You have a few days and I want it in writing with your signature.” Steve responded simply and left the office.

Rudy was lying on his small cot with his hands behind his head staring unfocused at the ceiling. His energy consumed with concern for Michelle and worrying about Steve. Rudy couldn’t over step the guilt of how his involvement in all this hurt Steve. He wondered if his friend had lost the fight against the lead slug in his brain. No, he was sure Oscar would have come to tell him in person. Rudy let out a sigh. Oscar was probably where Rudy would be right now… sitting at Steve’s hospital bed waiting.

His mind rushed back to his surroundings at the familiar low voice echoing in the small hallway. “You’ll do anything for time off won’t you?”

Rudy’s legs flew off the side of the cot and he jumped to his feet. He stared a few seconds then blinked hard twice. It couldn’t be. Could it?

He rushed to the cell door. “My god Steve! Are you alright?”

“I’m okay for now Rudy… walking and talking… just a little tired.”

“Steve I’m so sorry all this happened. You must hate me for…”

Steve held up his hand halting the words tumbling from his friend’s mouth. “Rudy, it’s okay. This isn’t your fault and I’m not here to blame you. I’m here to ask your help.”

“Anything.”

“I want you to do the surgery to remove the bullet.”

“What?” His large brown eyes grew larger.

“You heard me Rudy. You’re the only one I trust.” Steve also knew it would help Rudy dispose of some of his guilt over the situation.

“Steve you don’t know what you’re asking.”

Steve nodded he did know and instantly the room began spinning. His hands grabbed for the bars that separated him from the doctor. Rudy noticed the white knuckles on his left hand and the tightly closed eyelids as Steve fought to steady himself.

“Steve?” He asked cautiously and waited anxiously for a reply.

The eyes slowly opened. With a soft voice Steve explained the situation as he fought the fatigue that was dragging him down. He rested his head on the cool metal as his eyes closed again. “Rudy listen to me. I got the Secretary’s permission for you to perform the surgery.” The blue eyes came up to meet the concerned brown ones. “They are in the process of moving Michelle’s equipment to the Medical Center. I plan on going down swinging Rudy. Understand?”

“Yeah Steve I understand but I don’t know if I can do it. What about Michelle?”

“Forget it Rudy. There’s no way, she too involved in the situation to be released anytime soon… at least not soon enough for me. Oscar says they have her locked up tight. He said even the Secretary doesn’t have any control over her fate. It’s in the hands of the CIA and NSB.” The tired man took a deep breath before finishing his thoughts, “I know you can do this Rudy. Trust me.”

The experienced physician could see his friend was struggling. He wasn’t sure how long Steve could remain upright. “Rudy… Michael said about a week.”

“I know. Oscar told me.”

“I don’t think I have that long.” Steve’s eyes, full of fear and desperation, stared at his longtime confidant. He saw Rudy nod his understanding. Their quiet conversation was interrupted when Jaime appeared, concerned over Steve’s posture against the bars she saw from the end of the corridor. The blonde woman placed a gently hand on Steve’s tense back.

“Hi Rudy.”

“Hi Jaime. I think it’s time you take him home.”

“I agree. Steve, are you ready to go.” The brown head nodded only slightly this time and he allowed Jaime to escort him out. “I’ll see you soon Rudy.”

“Sure Steve. Get some rest.” He called after the pair as the ambled down the hallway towards the exit.

Jaime quickly got Steve settled on the couch in his apartment after his stubborn refusal to go to bed. She draped a light blanket over him and he was instantly asleep. Standing there staring at the familiar face she had known since the third grade the tears threatened to fall once again. She hugged herself tightly and left the room. She didn’t want him to hear her crying.

In a few hours he struggled to wakefulness, a feeling of heaviness in his limbs. “Jaime?” He said softly. She immediately came to sit at his side. “What is it Steve?”

“I… I just wondered where you were that’s all.” He gave her a lopsided grin that warmed her heart. She gave him a dazzling smile, her heart filled with all the words she wanted to say to him before… before it was too late.

“Steve, I want you to know, I wish… well, I wish things between us had turned out differently.” He stared at her with a furled brow. “I mean I wish I hadn’t lost my memory. Then maybe…” She was too embarrassed to finish the thought.

“Then maybe what?”

“Nothing.”

“Come on Jaime finish what you were going to say.”

“I’ll tell you later.” She replied automatically. As soon as the words left her mouth an air of tension surrounded them, making the air too thick to breath. They both saw the irony.

He reached up and pushed a few strands of blonde hair behind her ear. The soft caress of her cheek that followed was about to unleash the salty water from her stinging eyes. He never said a word as he tenderly traced her jaw line with his left hand, his eyes locked on her pretty face.

She had been the one. The only woman he came close to marrying. She would have been the mother of his children, the woman who shared his name. They would have been a family. He now realized what she was going to say without her saying it. There would be nothing of him left behind when he left this earth. It was something he had never thought of until now.

She saw the realization and understanding cross his face and the tears fill his eyes. She leaned down causing the tears to roll down her cheeks as she kissed him softly. Pulling back a few inches she locked eyes with him, having no doubt he was still deeply in love with her, having kept it buried for the past two years. Suddenly she felt guilty over not reuniting with him. Would it have changed things? She couldn’t help but wonder as he suddenly claimed her lips in a passionate kiss.

Steve wrapped his arms around her pulling her on top of him. He reveled in her warmth and friendship as he allowed those deep feelings he had for her to surface just once more. Yes, there were one or two regrets he had to face. She was one of them… the biggest one. He shouldn’t have given up so easily. He should have fought for her but he didn’t.

She sat up and wiped the wetness from her face then his. His glassy eyes never left her face. “Jaime… Jaime I’m sorry our relationship didn’t work out. I should have chased after you.” She chuckled softly, “I should have let you catch me.”

“I guess we both have regrets huh?” He said lightly and she nodded.

“How about I make us some dinner?”

“Sounds good. I’ll help.” He got up and walked with her to the kitchen.

The following day began with Steve and Jaime spending quiet time at his apartment. Steve was grateful he was able to accomplish the most important task on his final checklist yesterday. But success had its price, the toll of yesterday’s physical and emotional stress interacting Oscar, Rudy and the Secretary left him very fatigued. Deciding to pace himself as Michael had suggested he rested in hopes it would give him more time.

In the late morning Jaime found him sitting in a comfy chair just staring out the window, lost in thought. “Steve?” She ran a hand across his shoulders. “Want to talk about it?”

His eyes never left the window. “I was just thinking.”

“Thinking about what?”

“If I should tell Mom and Dad.” His head turned slowly and looked at her face. He didn’t want to tell her he was also thinking of the irregular breathing he was already experiencing. When he went to bed last night he honestly wasn’t sure he would wake up this morning.

“I could call them for you…ask them to come to Washington.”

Steve’s gaze returned to the street below and he let out a heavy sigh. “I’m not sure I want to put them through it. You know?”

Jaime replied, “Yeah.”

“Besides I don’t think I could bear seeing their faces.” He looked at her again. “That’s pretty selfish isn’t it?”

“No. I think your parents would want you to do whatever makes this easier for you. Besides it’s your nature to protect the ones you love.” She saw him nod cautiously. The phone ringing interrupted the quiet conversation.

Jaime turned to answer it. “Hello? It’s Jaime. It’s nice to hear your voice too. Ah… hold on let me see if he’s here.” She looked at him with concern, her hand over the bottom of the receiver. “It’s your mom.” Her face paled from the eerie coincidence.

Steve stomach felt like it hit the floor. He swallowed the lump that jumped into his throat knowing this could possibly be his last conversation with his mother. He tentatively took the phone in his hand and forced a smile to his face. “Hi Mom! How are you?” He fought hard to sound upbeat and casual as the conversation continued. Jaime left the room giving him some privacy. The conversation was the most difficult Steve had ever had. In the end he couldn’t bring himself to tell her his time was quickly running out. He only prayed that someday his parents would forgive him.

...Continued