Rudy was behind his desk, tired and worn out, when his assistant, Linda, knocked on the door and entered. She smiled while handing him some files that required his attention. After getting a curt thank you she moved out the door, passing Steve as he was entering. Rudy was anxious as he watched his friend close the door and slip the lock. “We still need to talk Rudy.” He said in a low voice, the last few moments with Kayce draining him physically and emotionally.

Rudy was quickly on his feet almost relieved to see Steve just as weary, grateful the anger had subsided. With a stack of papers in hand he moved across the office and began filing. “There’s isn’t anything to talk about Steve.”

“I disagree.” He responded firmly. “I want to know what happened.”

Rudy kept his focus on the papers he was sorting, trying to appear busy. “Nothing happened Steve.” He looked up at the curious husband. “I swear Steve you have nothing to worry about.”

“Why Rudy?”

The pile of reports dropped on the open drawer and Rudy let out a long breath. “I don’t know…I honestly don’t. I never had any romantic feelings towards Kayce before….”

“Before?”

Moving the loose sheets to the top of the cabinet Rudy shoved the drawer shut, not wanting to make eye contact with his longtime friend, he leaned one arm on the grey metal box. “Before she lost her memory. Before that she was always so confident and self-assured. I cared about her deeply but as a younger sister or daughter…..it was completely platonic.”

“What changed?” Steve asked in a softer tone, needing to know everything.

“I don’t know.” Rudy replied sternly. He wasn’t comfortable discussing this with Steve and now regretted blurting out his confession.

“Come on Rudy! You think you don’t know but you’re a scientist. You spend most of you time studying cause and effect. I’m sure you have some theory by now.”

Rudy’s eyes lost focus as he stared at the wall. “After her amnesia…her personality was the same except….”

”Except?”

“She had lost that unwavering self-confidence and assertiveness. She was insecure, anxious….like a lost little girl.” He paused a few moments to collect his thoughts. “I felt a strong need to protect her…take care of her…to…” His voice died off.

“To love her?” Steve saw the brown eyes slowly move to meet his. “In case you forgot Rudy… the job of protecting and caring for her is mine…..I’m her husband not you.” Steve moved closer to the doctor who just stared at Steve.

“You don’t have to worry about this going further. I can assure you that.”

“Really.” Steve sarcastically retorted, his arms folding across his chest. “Do you really think I’m that naive?”

Suddenly Rudy straightened his shoulders and glared at the blue eyes looking at him with distrust. “Yes. If anyone can understand it can be done its you.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Jaime? Barbara? You are…were in love with both of them. You have proved that it’s not impossible for a man to bury his strong feelings for a woman on order for her to be with the man she wants, the one she loves.”

Steve stood silent, considering the doctor’s argument. Suddenly he understood the position Rudy was in. “It isn’t going to be easy Rudy.”

“I know that. I’m hoping that now, with her memory returning, my feelings for her will return to what they were.”

“Does Kayce know how you feel?” Steve asked feeling more secure in his relationship with his wife now that she remembered their past. They shared a deep love and respect for one another. He knew nothing and no one could tear that apart.

“No she doesn’t and I’d prefer that she didn’t know.” The brown eyes pleaded for secrecy. “I’m her doctor. I don’t want her feeling uncomfortable around me.”

Steve nodded. “So when can she come home?”

The word ‘home’ cut through Rudy’s heart like a knife. He took a moment to move to his desk. “I still want to do a few tests today. She needs rest and will probably sleep for most of the day. I may not discern what caused her pain and her loss of consciousness but her white blood cell count was normal so I’m confident she is not rejecting her bionics. I’d like to keep her for the day, under observation, to make sure the pain doesn’t return. If she feels up to it I’ll release her tomorrow.”

Steve face grew into a grin at the thought of having Kayce home with him and the children. “Alright. I have some things to see to. I’ll be back later.”

The physician nodded and watched a happy man leave his office before slumping into his chair. He knew he could maintain a professional relationship with the young woman as her physician but silently wished there was another who could take his place. Unfortunately he was the only option because of her bionic construction so he vowed to make the best of it for her sake.

Around 3:00 am Kayce was sound asleep in her hospital bed and did not hear the soft creak of the door as it was eased open. The bright hallway lights that strayed into the dimly lit room did not disturb her slumber since she was sleeping on her side, her back towards the door. The tall figure moved around the bed to look at her, a smile curving his lips.

He had stopped in earlier in the day and Rudy had all the test results back. Although they didn’t pinpoint the cause of her headache and loss of consciousness they did indicate the young woman was fine and could be discharged first thing in the morning. Unfortunately, because of an urgent matter, Steve couldn’t wait.

Sitting gently on the side of the bed he touched her shoulder and spoke in quiet tones.

“Kayce. Kayce wake up.” She mumbled in her sleep and curled up, pulling the blankets tighter around her. “Kayce.” He called louder and saw her blink twice in an attempt to see who was near her.

Rolling onto her back she stretched. “Steve, what are you doing here? What time is it? Are the children alright?”

Her husband moved away to the closet and dresser, removing the clothes she was wearing when she was brought to the medical center. She watched him with interest.

“The kids are fine…home in bed.”

”Which is where you should be.” She said simply as he dropped her clothes on the bed.

“There’s something that needs to be done and I know you won’t want to miss it. Get dressed.”

She sat up and began removing her hospital gown and donning her street clothes. “Steve what time is it?”

“Its 3 am.” He replied without looking up from where he was writing a note to Rudy. Once that was done he looked up at his tousled head wife as she moved to the bathroom. “Hurry up we are on a tight time schedule.”

She quickly brushed her teeth and hair, pulling her long strands into a pony tail. Yawning aloud she moved to him. “Where are we going that can’t wait until morning?”

He smiled and took her hand. “You’ll see. Come on.”

She headed out the door, stating matter-of-factly, “You’d better have some coffee in the car or I ain’t going to be very good company.”

“I already got it covered….I got you donuts too.” He informed her with a wink.

She smiled at him. “That works for me.” The pair moved to the dark parking lot.

Oscar arrived at Rudy’s office at 5 am after receiving a call that Kayce was gone. The night duty nurse noticed the patient’s absence shortly after she her exit and contacted Rudy.

“Well?”

Rudy handed the hastily scribbled note to the director. “Looks like she’s in good hands at least.”

Oscar read the short note that stated Kayce had left the medical center with Steve. “Is she well enough to be out of here? Are you sure it’s Steve who took her out of here?”

“I was planning on discharging her in the morning. I’m not positive but that looks like Steve’s handwriting. Why?”

“Because Tom Sheridan posted bail last night and hasn’t been seen since.”

“What? How could that happen?”

“The judge ordered bail set at 2 million dollars knowing full well all of Sheridan’s bank accounts were frozen and assumed he couldn’t get that kind of cash.” The tall man began to pace. “What he didn’t figure on was Sheridan’s connections. He apparently got the cash from somewhere. We think he’s going to try and leave the country. Then we will never find out who was helping him steal government secrets. ”

The nurse on duty knocked on the doctor’s office door. “Dr. Wells there’s an urgent call for Mr. Goldman.”

“Put it through.”

The two men shared a look of concern before Oscar grabbed the receiver. “Oscar Goldman speaking…..WHAT?.... Are you sure? I’ll be there right away.” He slammed the phone down and looked at the doctor.

“What’s going on?”

“It would seem we have a lead on Sheridan and Steve’s taken control of the pursuit. Come on.”

Tom Sheridan didn’t remember when he dozed off but as he slowly became aware he let out a sigh hearing the familiar hum of the aircraft engines. He was free and on his way to Bangkok. Glancing at his watch he saw it was almost 6 am. He rested his head on the headrest trying to remember when they had departed Washington and, for the life of him, he couldn’t even recall getting on the rented plane. At least he assumed it was a rental since his assets, including his jets, were seized by law enforcement. Looking around he didn’t recognized the décor of this plane. Oh well, he thought, it didn’t matter as long as he was getting out of the States.

His anger began to rise as he thought of the men he had employed who turned on him for lighter sentences. He was surprised how strong the government’s case against him had become. A small smile touched his lips knowing he was still going to win this game. He would be free to continue his arms trading and the powerful man he worked for, who handed over the enormous bail money without hesitation, still trusted him. In a few hours it would be back to business as usual.

He was startled when the cockpit door opened and a man looking a lot like Steve Austin stepped out. Sheridan was familiar with Austin as he and his partner had possession of the classified data known as the Cyborg project. In fact that was the turning point in his last dealing that almost cost him his freedom. He had planned on building one of their own. Now he watched as the brown-haired man ambled closer, a crooked grin on his face.

Sheridan’s head screamed in disbelief when recognition set in. ‘No it can’t be!’

Steve’s was polite and casual. “Welcome aboard Mr. Sheridan. I’m Steve Austin and you already know my wife, Kayce.” The pretty woman stepped around her husband and offered a forced smile at the stunned man.

“What are you doing on my plane?”

Steve grinned. “We are you flight crew.” He stated simply. The Austin’s enjoyed seeing the color drain from the fugitive’s face.

“What do you want? Oh, let me guess you want to hear a full confession from me as to my business dealings.”

“Let’s not forget the kidnapping of my wife.”

“You are out of your mind. Besides it wouldn’t hold up in court anyway.”

Kayce stepped closer. “You’re right. It would not benefit us to coerce you into confessing but I think this would be a good time for you tell us who your partner is…you know the one who is able to gain access to such highly classified government files?”

“You two are insane. There is no way you are getting that or any other information from me.”

The grey eyes of the confused man watched as the two pilots moved to a small closet near the cockpit. Steve spoke first. “Well, I’m afraid there are only 2 parachutes here.” He looked at Sheridan with a grin. “I guess that leaves you out… or in as a matter of speaking.”

Kayce and Steve quickly and efficiently buckled the large packs onto their backs. Sheridan was beside himself wondering if these two would actually bail out of the plane and leave him to ride it down.

“You can’t do this!” Sheridan exclaimed as Steve moved to the door. “You open that door and the plane will crash!”

Steve looked over. “Calm down Sheridan. We are only at 10,000 feet. I didn’t even pressurize the cabin.” He pulled the handle and the door swung in and against the fuselage.

Kayce glared at the terrified man still buckled in the seat. She yelled at him over the loud wind coming in from the open door. “Tell us who your partner is or you become a lawn dart somewhere on the west coast.”

Sweat began beading on the pale forehead as the frightened man looked out the open door, next to which Steve was standing, ready to jump. There was whiteness billowing past as the plane cut through un-resistive clouds at a high rate of speed.

“YOU CAN’T DO THIS! HE’LL KILL ME! DON’T YOU UNDERSTAND?”

His eyes darted from Steve to Kayce and back to Steve. He saw the former astronaut shrug his shoulders. “I’ll see ya on the ground Kayce!” He jumped out leaving Kayce with Sheridan.

“Please…you have to land this plane!” He begged the young woman who slowly made her way to the door. “PLEASE!”

“Last chance Sheridan!” She yelled to be heard.

Quickly unbuckling his seatbelt he moved towards her. “Alright! Alright! It was Marcus Derringer…Marc Derringer! Okay? Now please close the door!”

Kayce smiled broadly. “Thanks Sheridan.” She turned and jumped.

Sheridan, stunned by her exit, moved to the door. Suddenly the wind stopped and the white clouds dissipated, leaving the immense hanger in full view. He looked down and below the simulator he saw Steve helping Kayce off the large airbag she had landed on.

Oscar stood dumbfounded as he watched first Steve then Kayce jump from the simulator. He had heard the onboard conversation over a small speaker. He couldn’t believe they finally knew the identity of the mole. With one phone call he ordered his agents to pick up Derringer.

Steve and Kayce, both smiling ear to ear, approached Oscar and Rudy.

“I can’t believe you two.” Oscar said with a nod of his head.

“What? We got the information you wanted didn’t we?” Kayce inquired. She chuckled as she looked at her husband. “We may have used unorthodox methods but it got the job done.”

“Yeah Oscar what are you complaining about?” Steve asked with a raised brow. The foursome watched as Sheridan was taken off the airplane replica and loaded into a car.

“Besides it was fun.” Kayce added as she stepped out of her parachute. “And you were right Steve; I wouldn’t have wanted to miss this.”

“The US government once again thanks you for you efforts.” Oscar played along with a smile.

“Then how about 2 weeks off.” Steve tossed out there while his boss was smiling.

“I’m sure that could be arranged.” Oscar replied with a smile.

Kayce gracefully stepped through the door held open by her husband. The pair was slightly concerned at the silent reception they received. After taking a few steps into their home Steve picked up the white paper left clearly in view.

With a grin he handed it to Kayce who read it aloud.

Welcome home!

I’ve taken the children to the aquarium. We will be back at 2 pm. I expect you to make the most of your time.

Your friend,
Cassie

Kayce grinned at Steve and teased. “Well I know what I’m going to do.”

Steve stepped closer. “What’s that?”

“I’m taking a nice hot shower.” She retorted matter-of-factly as she turned and headed down the hall. It took only a moment for Steve to make his decision.

“Great idea.” He picked up his steps to catch up.

It was 2 hours later when the couple was awakened but soft voices coming from the front room. With rain pattering the windows and roof Kayce curled up tightly against Steve who had a protective arm around her. The couple had fallen into a light doze after their emotionally refreshing and physically draining private time. Moving slowly and reluctantly the two rolled from the large bed to dress.

Cassie was helping Stephanie off with her wet jacket as Kyle dropped his in the foyer and began moving away without a second thought. Cassie immediately addressed him.

“Kyle James Austin you get right back here and remove those muddy shoes.”

Quickly turning the little boy glanced at his dirty sneakers then at his sitter with a crooked grin of apology. Cassie picked up Stephanie and smiled at the boy who dropped to the floor and was pulling off his shoes. “I’m sorry Miss Cassie, I forgot.” He stood and looked up at her with twinkling blue eyes.

She chuckled while mumbling, “You are your father’s son, no doubt about that.”

Kyle gave her a confused look. “Is that a good thing?” He asked innocently.

Before she could respond Kayce voice traveled across the family room from behind them. “That is a VERY good thing.”

“MOMMY!” Kyle cried out and ran to her. Stephanie was put down and immediately ran to her daddy, her greeting a little more subdued. “Daddy.”

Kayce hugged her son tight then grabbed her daughter. She tried her best but the tears still filled her eyes for the months she had missed with her children. “Are you home for good now?” Kyle asked, wondering why she was looking so sad.

“You bet.” She replied and pulled him back to her with her free hand while Stephanie clung to her neck. “I’ve missed you two so much.”

While Kayce showered her children with affection Steve walked over to Cassie who was still wearing her coat. “Sorry about the wet coats. I didn’t expect it to rain today.”

Steve pulled her into a hug. “Thank you so much for everything.”

“You’re welcome.” She replied then felt a kiss on her cheek before she was released. He held the door for and the family said their goodbyes.

It was late spring; the Austin family had been reunited for a month, when Oscar and Rudy received calls inviting them to a small birthday celebration that was long overdue.

Rudy sat in his California office thinking over events of the past month. He remembered how Steve struggled to get through Kayce’s actual birthday when she was presumed dead. The day had been too long for him too. Now he had to decide if he would attend the casual dinner at the ranch.

He hadn’t seen much of Kayce since she returned home with Steve and her children, two days after regaining her memory. With the inappropriate feelings he had for her during her recovery he was glad to have the distance between them. Giving him time to sort through what had happened, something unintended and completely out of the blue.

Steve understood the doctor might be hesitant, subtly giving Rudy his support whether the physician attended the dinner or not.

Birthday parties were for celebrating a person’s life, to show that person how much they are cared for and loved. Kayce was special and her friends would no doubt do anything to be in attendance, especially after the nightmare of thinking she was dead.

The scientist wondered if Steve was hoping he would decline. Certainly his friend had a small amount of mistrust now that he knew that Rudy’s feelings towards his wife had changed at some point. ‘But did they persist?’ Rudy wondered. Limiting his exposure to the young woman did not allow him the opportunity to see if his feelings had returned to their once platonic level since Kayce was once again her assertive, confident self.

With a sigh he picked up the phone and dialed Steve’s number. He assured Steve he would be there and was relieved that his friend seems happy with his decision.

Already knowing Oscar would be late Rudy headed to the ranch alone. Arriving in the driveway he realized he was early and wondered if he, subconsciously, just wanted to see Kayce again. Pushing the thought aside he exited the car to squeals of laughter coming from the backyard.

The usually serious scientist couldn’t help but smile seeing Kayce rolling on the grass with Kyle while Stephanie scampered around close by with the newest addition to the family, a golden retriever puppy. The laughter stopped and Kayce found herself on her back with her 5 year old straddling her stomach. The scene was like a painting ….the young mother showering her children with attention as the sun shone down to brighten her blonde hair and dance across the innocent smiling faces of her offspring as they played in the lush grass. There was no doubt that Kayce was extremely happy which in turn made Rudy happy too, he just had to ignore the twinge in his chest. He was suddenly caught off guard by Steve call, his brown eyes pulled from the mother and children.

“Rudy!” The tall, tanned form exited the house dressed in tan pants and a blue, button up shirt.

“Hi Steve.” The two friends shook hands as Steve offered his guest a seat on the patio. “Can I get you a drink?”

“Iced tea would be great if you have some.”

“Coming right up.” The former astronaut disappeared into the house as Kayce stepped onto the cement patio looking a bit anxious seeing Rudy.

“Hi Rudy!”

“Hi Kayce…hi Kyle.” The experienced doctor picked up on her tension immediately and had a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. ‘Did Steve tell her?’ He wondered.

“Hi Uncle Rudy. Did you see our new puppy?”

“Yes I did. Are you taking good care of him?”

“Yes. Steph and I feed and play with him all the time.”

“That’s great.”

Kayce placed a hand on her son’s forehead pushing the few strands of sweat soaked hair back. “Kyle please go inside and get some lemonade for you and your sister.”

“But Mom……”

“Please.” She used a firmer tone letting Kyle no he had no choice. “I’d like to speak to Rudy alone for a minute.”

“Okay.” Kyle reluctantly went inside and Rudy, suddenly nervous, wondered what Kayce wanted to speak with him about. He saw her glance back at Stephanie who was preoccupied with the erratic hops of the dog then she gracefully slipped into the chair opposite him. Planting her crossed forearms on the table she leaned forward and looked him straight in the eye.

“Something wrong?” Rudy asked with a slightly strained voice.

Kayce paused a moment trying to choose the right way to go about the conversation, a conversation she wanted to complete before her husband returned.

“Is there something you’d like to tell me Rudy?”

Rudy unconsciously wiggled in his chair and broke the visual contact, appearing to gaze over the corral. He was getting desperate for any interruption. Slowly his eyes came back to hers.

She noticed him swallow hard before responding. “I’m not sure I know what you are referring to.” He silently screamed for Steve to bring his drink so the conversation would be diverted. If Steve did tell her about his romantic feelings for her, which he didn’t think would happen; this would be how she would address the situation. Head on and in private.

The dark blue eyes never wavered. “Come on Rudy…..I think its time to confess don’t you?” The older man shifted in his seat and broke eye contact again so Kayce continued to prod. “The fact that you can’t even look me in the eye tells me ……”

Steve heard the last two sentences and swiftly opened the screen door knowing what she was doing and what it was doing to his friend. “Here you go Rudy. Sorry it took so long Kyle needed help pouring lemonade.” He raised a brow at his inquisitive wife, knowing she deliberately sent Kyle inside with the lemonade request to occupy him so she could talk to Rudy alone. The doctor quickly brought the glass to his lips and drank slowly to avoid Kayce’s stare. He saw the silent interaction between the pair. In fact Steve and Kayce glared at one another for several seconds telling Rudy something was amiss and he was no doubt in the middle of it.

Kayce sat back in the chair like a child caught with a hand in the cookie jar. Glancing at their guest Steve noticed the paleness under the light sheen of perspiration and realized Rudy thought Kayce knew about his true feelings. Immediately coming to his friend’s rescue he laid the cards on the table.

“Don’t mind my wife…” Steve glared at the pretty woman pouting with her arms folded. “She’s got this idea in her head that I am up to something.”

”Like what?”

“I don’t know. Ask her?” The two men looked at Kayce and she just stood up with exaggerated annoyance.

“Well I know something is going on…..and I will soon find out what it is!” With that she turned and picked up Stephanie to put her down for a nap. As soon as his wife was out of ear shot Steve whispered to Rudy.

“She knows I’m planning something but she can’t figure out what it is.” A silly grin grew on his face as he sipped his cold drink. “She has no idea we are celebrating her birthday tonight.”

The tension in Rudy’s body melted away. “So she was just fishing for information about tonight?”

Steve nodded as he toyed with his glass. “She hates surprises.”

“Thank God….I thought…well….”

Steve got serious at Rudy’s obvious discomfort. “Thought what Rudy?”

“I thought you told her….about…well about…”

Steve’s blue eyes bore into Rudy’s, his voice low and steady. “I gave my word Rudy that I wouldn’t tell her and I aim to keep it.”

Rudy just nodded his relief.

As expected Kayce was surprised, not to mention confused, when just before dinner Oscar arrived followed closely by Silver and Sara. It was then Steve had to confess that it was a belated birthday party. He waited for his scolding, knowing his wife would feel uncomfortable with a surprise party in her honor. When she stood speechless he moved to stand next to her.

“Kayce.” He whispered.

She looked at her generous and sensitive husband as tears trickled down her cheeks. She threw herself into his arms and hugged him tightly. The room fell silent for a moment, everyone feeling the weight of the moment. These two people, who loved each other with every ounce of their being, had nearly been separated permanently.

Finally Kayce detached herself and, after wiping the spontaneous wetness from her face, smiled at the small group of treasured friends. “Thank you all for coming and most importantly being such good friends to Steve and me.”

“Happy Birthday” was sung as Oscar brought in the cake. At the last note Silver grinned and enthusiastically exclaimed, “Make a wish!”

Kayce looked at Steve, his blue eyes telling her everything he was feeling. She reached up and touched his face. “There is nothing else I need or want.” She whispered for his ears only. Steve leaned down and placed a tender kiss on her lips before she blew out her candles.

During the celebration Rudy took notice that seeing Kayce with Steve he didn’t have the strong romantic inclinations he once had. Maybe because it was quite obvious she belonged with Steve. No two people could be more in love. When it came time to leave Rudy said his good-byes and found Steve following him to his car. Steve had picked up on the doctor’s quiet behavior as the evening passed and wanted to talk with his friend.

“Rudy, is everything okay?” Steve knew how hard the day must have been for his friend.

The shorter man paused at his car door, thinking a moment. Looking up at his longtime friend he nodded. “Yeah Steve, actually it is okay.” He offered a small smile knowing he was speaking the truth.

Seeing the odd look on Rudy’s face Steve inquired, “What do you mean?”

With a lean of his head the doctor explained. “Kayce. After seeing her here with you and the kids…..acting like her old self…..I don’t feel the same about her.” Seeing the raised brow Rudy finished. “I mean I still care deeply about her….I always did and always will but ….only as a friend. She’s a strong woman and now that her memory is back she isn’t the woman I thought I was falling in love with. I guess I only have soft spots for women who need me.” He smiled at Steve.

Steve let out a sigh, relieved that there was no longer a threat to his friendship with Rudy. “Someday, Rudy, you will find a woman who will make you feel like the luckiest man in the world. I have no doubt about that. And when that happens I’ll be the first one to shake you hand.”

“Thanks Steve.” Rudy smiled and the two shook hands. The OSI operative watched as the car pulled onto the rural road.

Later that evening the tired couple sat snuggled together on the overstuffed couch. Stephanie lay next to her mother, using her leg as a pillow. Kayce sat with her head on Steve’s shoulder, her eyes closed, and her right hand rhythmically stroking her daughter’s soft blonde hair. Steve had his head tilted back and eyes closed, feeling the cool breeze coming from the open window. The quietness was only broken by the occasional cricket song.

In an effort to avoid falling asleep in the peacefulness, Steve lifted his head and looked at his family, all in one place and safe. He let out a long exhale or contentment which brought Kayce out of her doze.

“What is it?” She asked softly.

“Nothing. I was just appreciating having my family all together.”

A chuckle escaped Kayce’s pink lips and she nodded to the floor. Steve grin matched hers at the sight of their son. The new puppy had fallen asleep on his side near the dark fireplace. In the midst of their playtime Kyle had fallen asleep perpendicular to the family pet, using his side as a pillow. Both were sound asleep.

Neither Steve nor Kayce had any desire to get up but knew the children needed to be bedded down. Steve picked up his son while his wife scooped up Stephanie and they made their way to the bedrooms. After putting the children in bed they met in the hallway.

Kayce smiled in her husband’s arms. “So where do we go from here?”

Steve leaned down for a soul-stirring kiss. “Follow me.”