“…What do you mean he’s missing?” Jaime screamed at Oscar

“I didn’t say he was missing Jaime.” Oscar defended. “I merely stated we lost contact with him.”

“What’s the difference?” Jaime demanded.

“We could have just missed his call.” Oscar tried to sound reassuring.

“That’s not like Steve an you know it.” Jaime cried. “I’m going after him.”

“No you’re not your staying right here Steve would have my head if I sent you anywhere. You let me know if you need any help with the kids. I’ll take Marc if you want.” Oscar suggested referring to his 11 year old bionic son he had allowed Steve and Jaime to adopt.

“No Oscar we’ll be fine. I know its summer and I thought Marc could spend more time at your place, but I really need his help with James especially when Steve’s not here.”

“I understand.” Oscar sighed. “How is James anyway?”

“He’s getting better, but the bigger he gets the stronger he gets.” Jaime stood to show Oscar to the door. “You know when Dan came up with the idea of cloning Steve, I never dreamed the baby would have Steve’s strength.”

“Yea I know. I’m glad he and Rudy were able to remedy the problem when the cloned you for Jennifer. Where is Marc anyway?” Oscar looked around the living room

“He’s outside playing while James and Jennifer take their naps.” Jaime explained. “He’s made a couple of friends in the neighborhood. How did Matt get along in school?” Jaime asked of Marc’s twin.

“He did very well.” Oscar opened the front door to leave.

“Well that’s good. You let me know the instant you hear anything from Steve, do you hear?”

Oscar nodded “I will’ he promised.

“Where did you send him?” Jaime asked.

“To Saudi Arabia” Oscar’s face grew somber. “We have reason to believe they are trying to purchase a nuclear weapon. Steve’s job was to find out the details.”

“Sounds dangerous” Jaime stood holding the door.

“It could be very dangerous.” Oscar admitted.

“In that case, I’m going over there Oscar.”

“No you’re not. If I don’t hear from Steve by tomorrow I’ll come up with something.”

“What will you come up with?” Jaime demanded.

“I could send Russ.” Oscar managed.

“Russ can’t handle it.” Jaime fumed. “And you know it.”

“I said I’ll take care of it.” Oscar closed the door behind him.

“Russ. Have you heard from Steve?” Oscar asked when he stepped into his office.

“Nothing yet” Russ stood and walked back around to the front of the desk to allow Oscar to sit down.

“I was hoping he had at least called.” Oscar sighed.

“He will.” Russ tried to convince himself as well.

They both jumped when Rudy walked in. “Any word?” He asked.

Russ and Oscar both shook their heads. “I did tell Jaime what’s going on.” Oscar sighed.

“How did she take it?” Rudy wondered.

“About the way I expected her to. She wants to go over there and find him.”

“You told her that wasn’t necessary didn’t you?” Rudy asked.

“Of course I did. I think I have her held of for a while anyway.” Oscar sighed.

“Let’s hope so. I don’t want her going anywhere till after that baby is born. This is a very special one you know that.”

“Do you think the baby will be as smart as Danny?” Oscar changed the subject.

“I don’t know. We’ll all find out together.” Rudy considered.

“I guess you’re right. Dan is still doing his internship at National.” Oscar added.

“He’s doing very well too.” Rudy confirmed He works with me in the afternoon and with the rest in the morning.”

Oscar glanced down at the silent phone. “Come on Steve. Call” he urged.

“A watched pot never boils.” Rudy reminded.

“I suppose you’re right. I have to find an agent to go over there and try to find him, if I don’t hear from him by tomorrow.”

“Maybe you should send someone now.” Rudy suggested.

“I think I’ll give Steve a little more time” Oscar came back. “For all we know, he could be on his way back.

“Ok but I think you’re making a very big mistake” Rudy sighed

“I have every confidence in Steve.” Oscar assured

“So do I Oscar but let’s be reasonable.” Rudy added.

“Like I said Rudy, if I don’t hear anything by morning, I’ll send someone in.”

“Ok. I’ll see you then.” Rudy left Oscar’s office dismayed that he couldn’t convince him to act quicker.

Oscar sat back down in the chair behind his desk with a pot of coffee it was going to be a long night. If Steve called, Oscar wanted to be right there.

“Mom!” Marc called from his room.

“Yes what is it?” Jaime poked her head in the door.

“When did Oscar say dad would be back?” Marc found it easier to refer to Oscar by his name when he was speaking of both parents, but he still thought and referred to him as his father.

“Oscar said in a few days…” Jaime’s voice trailed off.

“Something’s wrong?” Marc sat up in bed.

“Everything is just fine.” Jaime tried hard to cover up her concern for her husband. Concern she had felt ever since Oscar had told her Steve was missing.

“You can’t hide it from me you know.” Marc stood and looked her in the eye. “I know you to well. What’s wrong?”

“Nothing much, it’s just that Oscar hasn’t heard from Steve in a while. He’s a little concerned. That’s all.”

“Are you sure?” Marc continued to look her in the eye trying to read the expression.

“Yes, I’m sure. You get some sleep. Oscar is sure Steve will call him before morning.”

“And if he doesn’t?” Marc asked.

“Oscar said he would have to send someone in.” Jaime sighed.

“Where is he?” Marc continued to question.

“Saudi Arabia.” Jaime slumped down in the chair in Marc’s room. “To be real honest I’m glad I have someone to talk to.”

Marc and Jaime talked well into the night. They were interrupted by the doorbell. Jaime glanced at the clock it was a little past five in the morning. “You stay here Marc. I’ll be right back.”

Jaime headed down stairs and answered the door. “Oscar what brings you here this early?”

“I still haven’t heard from Steve. I’m going to send Russ in.” Oscar told her as he stepped into the front hallway.

“I don’t know if Russ can handle it.” Jaime spoke softly not wanting to alert Marc.

“I realize that, but I have to send someone.” Oscar continued.

“Why not send me dad?” Marc stood in the doorway separating the front hall from the living room.

“You know the answer to that Marc.” Oscar scolded.

“I don’t think Russ has a chance.” Marc stated.

“Marc, I’m not about to send an eleven year old half way round the world on a dangerous mission.” Oscar tried to explain.

“You may not have a choice in the matter.” Jaime added.

“Stay out of this Jaime…”

“Oscar you forget, Marc is my son too. In fact you gave up custody to allow Steve and I to adopt him…”

“What’s that got to do with it?” Oscar demanded.

“Oscar, you know perfectly well Marc can handle anything that’s thrown at him.” Jaime started

“But…”

“But nothing dad you can’t send Jaime, not in her condition.” Marc interrupted.

Oscar thought for several moments “I suppose you’re right.” He sighed. Steve would have my head if I sent Jaime. But if I send you he may also string me up.”

“Dad I can handle it. I know I can. Steve taught me everything I need to know. I’ve been on missions before.” Marc reminded.

“But that was with Steve and Jaime, and a couple of simple things here in Washington.” Oscar also reminded. “You’ve never been out of the country except for the time Gregory sent you to Asia.” Oscar paused. “Ok Jaime have him in my office in an hour, I’ll go over the mission with him….”

In a remote prison just outside Riyadh, Saudi Arabia a beaten Steve sat in a four by four cell that had guards on either side. He could hear the men approaching. He cringed as he heard the key turning in the lock…

Jaime dropped Marc off at the OSI. “You be careful Marc.” Jaime cautioned

“I will mom, don’t worry. I can handle it.” Marc grabbed his bag out of the backseat and headed up to Oscar’s office.

“Marc.” Oscar greeted. “Have a seat.” Oscar pointed to the couch. “Here’s where I want you to start. Steve was to stay at the Al Mansour Hotel in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. He was supposed to meet with a man by the name of Emir Ali.”

Marc nodded. “Do you think he’ll know where dad is?”

“I don’t know. I’m hoping he’ll be able to tell you.”

“Where do I find him?” Marc questioned.

“He’s the owner of the hotel. Steve was using the name Steve Forest for a cover.”

“Ok, when does my plane leave?” Marc asked.

“In an hour, you have just enough time to get to Dulles. And call me the minute you locate Steve. Do you understand? Not rescue him but locate him I can’t stress that enough.” Oscar warned. “That way we will send a plane for you.”

“Ok dad.” Marc was anxious to get going.

Oscar thought for a moment. “I’m going to have Dan ride to the airport with you. I want him to teach you some Arabic.”

“I don’t know if I can learn it that fast.” Marc said.

“Well maybe just enough to bluff. Marc I can’t tell you enough to be careful.” Oscar cautioned.

“I know dad.” Marc whispered. “I guess I better get started.

“All right Austin.” The man by the name of Haddad Jawad sneered. “We want to know why you are here.”

“I told you before my name is not Austin it’s Forest. I’m here on vacation.” Steve winced as they again smacked him in the jaw.

“You’ll tell us…eventually.” Naji Azzam spat. “We will get the information out of you one way or the other. Don’t go anywhere, we’ll be back.” Again they left the cell. Steve looked out to see if the guards were still there, they were. Guns ready to fire if Steve even blinked.

‘Wonder what they’re up to this time’? Steve thought to himself. ‘If it weren’t for these two goons out here, I’d have been gone along time ago.’ He continued to stare straight ahead. He had made the mistake once of looking toward the guards. That had resulted in the bullet hole in the wall just above his head. They were serious and Steve didn’t dare move.

Again he heard Haddad Jawad and Naji Azzam approach. “We told you we’d be right back. Haddad observed. “We have good news for you…’

“You believe I’m Steve Forest.” Steve groaned.

“No. Our boss is here and wants to speak with you.” Naji smiled.

Steve stood and followed them down the corridor. Unfortunately the two guards were right behind them.

Steve was led to a small room on the second floor of the prison. “Austin, this is our boss. Abdul Ghalib.” Naji shoved him inside.

“Mr. Austin. I understand you’re interested in our nuclear program.” Ghalib snarled.

“Did Marc get off?” Rudy asked.

Oscar nodded. “Yea his plane left just a few moments ago. I’ll tell you Rudy if I had it to do over again I don’t think I would have ever sent Steve on this mission.” Oscar sighed.

“Do you think Marc can handle the assignment?” Rudy wondered.

“I know he can handle it physically, it’s emotionally that I worry about.”

“He’s gone on missions before. In March he rescued Steve from Dine and Franklin…”

“You forget, Marc was captured too” Oscar reminded.

“Yea” Rudy laughed. “They were all rescued by James. Maybe you should have sendt him.”

“That’s very funny Rudy.” Oscar was not amused. “I’m sure the people who are trying to buy this Nuclear weapon are the ones who have Steve.”

“I’m sorry Oscar I didn’t know it was that serious.” Rudy became somber

“I told Marc to call as soon as he locates Steve.” Oscar went on. “I hope Steve calls before that and that he and Marc will both be on their way home before the day is out.”

“I have a feeling that’s wishful thinking.” Rudy sighed. “By the way, how did Marc’s Arabic lesson go?”

“It went pretty good. Dan is a good teacher, and Marc catches on quick.” Oscar explained

“Think he can bluff his way if he has to?” Rudy wondered.

“Oh yea Dan taught him some phrases.”

“Well that’s good.” Rudy stated. “Anyway I guess we just wait?” Rudy added.

“I don’t know what else to do. I don’t think I’ll leave this office until they are both back here.” Oscar finished.

“I don’t blame you.” Rudy sat in the chair across from Oscar’s desk and they watched the phone.

“What did you say?” Steve tried to play dumb.

Ghalib sighed. “I said what do you know about our nuclear program.

Steve shook his head. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. My name is Steve Forest I came here for a little R & R I’m an insurance salesman. I know nothing about nuclear weapons.”

“Some how I doubt that very much” Ghalib sneered. “I think you know a lot more than you let on Mr. Austin.”

“You’re wrong. I’m a life insurance salesman from Detroit.” Steve continued to lie.

Ghalib, Haddad and Naji began to speak to one another. Then they turned back to Steve.

“Ok Mr. Forest.” Haddad smiled. “You are free to go.”

‘Good’ Steve thought. ‘Now to go call Oscar and tell him my cover has been blown. He’ll just have to send someone else in.’

He was about ready to walk out the door when he heard a gunshot fired behind him. Steve tried to move as quickly as he could, but it wasn’t fast enough the bullet hit him in the upper right thigh. At first he thought he was ok, but then everything went black and he fell to the floor.

Marc’s plane landed without incident and he headed for the Al Mansour Hotel in Riyadh.

It took Marc over an hour to find the Al Mansour Hotel. In fact he was about to give up when he saw the hotel in the distance. Marc sped up the street He hoped Emir Ali could tell him where Steve was.

“Take him back to his cell.” Ghalib ordered.

“Ghalib” Naji noted. “There is no blood, how can that be?”

“Don’t bother me with such mundane trivia Ghalib snapped. “Just take the prisoner back to his cell.”

“Yes Ghalib.” Naji sighed. He and Haddad began dragging Steve back to the cell.

“Doesn’t strike you as odd why there is no blood.” Naji started.

“Don’t worry about that. We are to worry about our nuclear program.” Haddad reminded.

“Ok.” But Naji wasn’t going to let it drop. He had heard stories but he would dismiss that for now.

Marc entered the lobby of the Al Mansour Hotel and headed for the front desk. “Can I help you?” the desk clerk asked.

“I’d like to speak with Emir Ali.” Marc asked.

“May I ask why you wish to see him.” The clerk asked.

“No special reason.” Marc responded. He wasn’t real sure what to do. He had hoped that the man behind the counter was Emir Ali. But it appeared he wasn’t. “Could you tell me where I could find him?” Marc asked again.

“I’m afraid Mr. Ali met with and accident this afternoon.” The man reported.

“What sort of accident. Can I see him?” Marc pressed.

“I’m afraid not. You see Mr. Ali is dead.”

‘Great’ Marc thought. ‘He’s the one person who might know where Steve is” “Is there anything else I can do for you?”

“Yes” Marc responded. He wasn’t sure if he could trust this person or not but decided to chance it. “Could you tell me what room Steve Forest is staying in?”

“We have no one here by that name.” The clerk informed him.

“Are you sure? I was told he was staying here.” Marc pressed.

“I’m sorry; there is no one here by that name.” The desk clerk repeated.

“Thank you.” Marc moved away from the desk and headed for the door.

“Is there anything else I can do for you?”

“No but thanks anyway. Marc opened the door and stepped out onto the street.

The desk clerk watched as Marc walked out the door and turned up the street.

He quickly picked up the phone “Haddad? This is Habib. I need to speak with Ghalib.”

“He’s busy, what do you want to speak to him about.” Haddad tried to screen the call.

“Just put Ghalib on.” Habib ordered.

Haddad handed the phone to Ghalib. “It’s Habib. He wants to speak with you.”

Ghalib took the phone. “This better be good!” He barked.

“I think it is.” Habib continued. “There was a young boy here asking first for Ali and then Austin. Only he called him Forest.”

“Very interesting” Ghalib noted “Very interesting indeed. Where is the boy now?” Ghalib asked.

“He left the hotel. I shouldn’t have let him go…”

“Follow him don’t let him out of your sight. If he comes this direction…kill him.”

“I will. Don’t worry I’ll take care of everything.” Habib headed out the door and looked up and down the block for Marc…

Oscar and Rudy were on their third pot of coffee when Jaime called again. She used the other line this time as to not tie up Oscar’s private line in case Marc or Steve were trying to call.

“Yes Jaime, what did you find out?” Oscar wondered.

“The plane landed on time without incident. That’s all they would tell me.” Jaime explained.

“Well that’s good…I guess.” Oscar added. “I just wish I knew what was going on. I can’t handle just about any thing, but not knowing what’s going on.” Oscar hung up and turned to Rudy “That was Jaime, at least Marc’s plane landed in Riyadh.”

“Well that’s good.” Rudy stated.

After his conversation with Habib, Ghalib turned to Haddad and Naji “How is our man by the way?”

“He still in unconscious” Haddad reported.

“Is there anyway of waking him up.” Ghalib wondered.

“There are ways, but they could be drastic.” Naji informed.

“I don’t care. I want to know who this boy is.” Ghalib ordered.

Naji and Haddad headed back down to the cell to rouse Steve They didn’t have to Steve was sitting on the floor. He had just woken up and was not looking forward to the impending visit.

“We have some questions for you Austin.” Ghalib snorted when Steve was once again brought before him.

“Now what?” Steve winced with pain. He could barely stand, much less walk.

“A young American boy has shown up asking questions about you and Mr. Ali. Would you know who he was?”

‘It can’t be Marc’ Steve thought. “I have no idea.” Steve lied.

“I don’t believe you.” Ghalib sneered. “I don’t believe you for a second. I just don’t know why the OSI would send a child….” “Why would the OSI send anybody?” Steve could feel himself weakening again.

“That’s what we’re going to find out. I have someone following the boy.” Ghalib smiled.

‘Oh Marc go home now!!!’ Steve thought to himself.

After leaving the hotel Marc takes off for parts unknown in his now desperate search for Steve. The information the desk clerk gave him left him very uneasy and not willing to trust anyone.

‘Maybe I should call dad.’ He thought to himself. Then dismissed the idea fearing Oscar would recall him from the mission. ‘I came here to find Steve, and that’s what I’m going to do. Now where do you suppose they would keep him?’ Marc thought. He was unaware the desk clerk was watching his every move.

Marc walked two more blocks when he stopped to tie his shoe. Out of the corner of his eye he saw the hotel clerk duck into a doorway. ‘Wonder what he wants?’ Marc thought. He finished tying his shoe then ducked into another doorway, hoping the hotel clerk hadn’t seen him.

Inside his doorway Habib peered out to see if the boy had finished. “Dam” he cursed. “Where did he go?” He slowly stepped out onto the street, this time Marc was watching him.

Habib was still looking for the boy who was asking too many questions he was unaware that Marc was now tailing him.

He walked back to the hotel and placed another call to Ghalib. Marc hid behind a planter while Habib made the call.

“Ghalib, Habib. I lost the boy.”

“How?” Ghalib bellowed into the phone. He gave Naji and Haddad the signal to get Steve out of his office.

Even though he was being led out he still heard Ghalib holler in to the phone. “How do you lose a child?”

‘Ok Marc.’ Steve thought. ‘Now go to the American Embassy and get out of here.’

“I’m sorry Ghalib.” Habib cried. I was trying not to let him see me, when he just disappeared.

“Do you think he knows you were following him?” Ghalib demanded. “I was very careful.” Habib replied. “I’m positive he didn’t see me.”

“Well that’s good. I think you should come here. We may need to relocate Austin.”

Marc stood behind the planter He listened to the conversation but since they spoke Arabic he had know idea of what they were saying, but his ears did pick up at the mention of not Steve’s cover name, but his real name. He waited till Habib left the hotel.

‘I better stay with him He may eventually lead me to Steve.’ Marc thought. ‘I just hope he doesn’t see me.’

Marc watched as Habib got into his car and drove off. ‘You’re not getting away from me that easily’ Marc thought as he followed along

Marc followed Habib all the way to the prison. He watched as Haddad, Ghalib, and Naji greeted Habib. Marc kept his distance and tried to listen to them talking. Once again he could hear their voices, but he couldn’t understand what they were saying.

“Where is Austin now?” Habib asked.

“He’s in the cell. We shot him before and he’s not doing very well….”

“You fools.” Habib sneered. “We could use him to bargain with later. I mean if the American’s sent him they will no doubt want him back. Show me where he is.”

“Are you sure you weren’t followed.” Ghalib looked around.

“I watched closely, no car followed me.” Habib explained.

Well that’s good. Come on I’ll take you to Austin.”

Marc’s ears picked up once again at the mention of Steve’s name. He quietly followed them into the prison.

Marc kept his distance. He could see Steve in the cell.

Oscar and Rudy were still sitting in Oscar’s office when Oscar’s private line rang. Oscar grabbed it “Marc?”

“Yea dad it’s me. I found Steve. They’re holding him in a prison outside of Riyadh” Marc informed him.

“Did you find Emir?” Oscar asked hoping the man was assisting the eleven year old in his effort to rescue Steve.

“No dad. I’m afraid they caught onto him before I got here.” ‘Here it comes.’ Marc thought ‘He’s going to tell me to come back.’

“There is no one there to help you.” Oscar continued.

“I’m afraid not dad.” Marc continued to speak from the payphone just up the street from the hotel. “But I can handle it.”

“Marc I think you should come back, go to the American Embassy I’ll tell them you’re coming…”

“No dad.” Marc cut him off I came to help Steve and I’m going to.”

Rudy had been listening to Oscar’s end of the conversation. “Oscar you don’t have a choice. Let Marc finish the mission.”

Oscar sighed I suppose you’re right. Ok Marc keep us informed the best you can.”

“I will dad, don’t worry.” Marc hung up the phone and headed back toward the prison.

“Sounds like there is trouble” Rudy noted when Oscar hung up.

Oscar nodded. “You heard my end. Marc found Steve…they are holding him in a prison.”

“I think you need to let Marc finish the job he started. To bring him back now and send someone else asking questions…” Rudy began.

“Of course Rudy I get what you’re saying, we could put Steve in harms way even more. I’m telling you. I won’t rest till they are both on their way back.” Oscar emphasized

“I see where you’re coming from.” Rudy sat back he was going to wait with Oscar for any word from Marc.

They hadn’t been sitting to long when Jaime stepped through the door. “I just couldn’t sit around the house any longer not knowing what was going on. I called Lynda to see if she would watch the kids.”

“Well it’s pretty boring around here as well.” Oscar stated. “Though we did hear from Marc, I was just about to call you.”

After speaking to Oscar Marc hung up the phone he looked around. He was looking for the American Embassy. Marc figured if he knew right where to go it would make it easier once he rescued Steve. He found it a block away from where he was standing and made a note of the address and cross streets and any other landmarks he could think of.

‘Ok now I know where that is.’ Marc spoke to himself. ‘Now to get back to the prison and get Steve out of there.’

He headed back to the prison and was surprised to see that the two cars that had been there only an hour before, were gone. ‘This is going to be easier than I thought.’ Marc continued to think to himself. ‘No guards.’

“You heard from Marc? Is Steve alright, when are they coming back?”...”

“Jaime just slow down” Oscar cautioned. “I said I heard from Marc. He did locate Steve…”

“Where is he? Why didn’t he call?”…

“He’s being held in a prison in Saudi Arabia….”

“What? That means they’re on to him. Now what? We leave it up to Marc?”

“For the moment anyway now that I know they’re on to us, if I don’t hear from Marc within the hour…”

“I’m going over there!!” Jaime exclaimed.

Marc made his way up the driveway and into the prison. He listened very carefully to see if he could hear anything. ‘Nothing’ Marc noted. ‘The guards must be gone.’

At first Marc was relieved until he had remembered one of the things Steve had taught him. “If it’s seems too good to be true…it more than likely is.”

Panic stricken Marc raced down the stairs to the cells. He desperately searched each one but he couldn’t find Steve in any of them “Oh no!” He groaned “now what? Where could they have taken Steve?”…

“Jaime just calm down” Oscar soothed. “You can’t go over there. If someone else goes over asking about Steve…I don’t know what they’ll do to him.”

“I suppose you’re right.” Jaime relented. “What are we going to do?”

“Let’s go back to my office. I thought if Steve was with Marc the next time he calls, he’ll want to speak with you. Lynda will watch James and Jennifer. I don’t need to worry about Matt and Joey, they’re with Russ’ wife Minnie.

Jaime grabbed her two children and Joined Oscar in the car “Let’s hurry. I don’t want to miss if Marc calls.”

Oscar pulled away from the curb and headed for the OSI.

“I just hope Marc didn’t call while we weren’t there.” Jaime cried.

Rudy was standing at the curb when they pulled in. “Oscar. Russ has Marc on the phone. I’ll park the car, you go on up.”

Jaime and Oscar jumped out of the car and ran into the building and up to Oscar’s office.

By the time Oscar got to his office he was panting. “Marc. Is Steve with you?”

“No he’s not. I went back to the prison to get him and they must have moved him.” Marc cried.

“Marc you go to the American Embassy NOW!” Oscar ordered. “You get out of there now!!”

“I can’t dad. I came to find Steve, and I’m going to find him….”

“I mean it Marc you get to the embassy NOW! I had misgivings about this mission from the start. I’ll send someone else …”

“Fine send someone else they can catch up to me. I’m not leaving here without Steve.” Before Oscar could respond Marc hung up.

Oscar stared for a moment at the humming receiver. “He’s just like Steve.” He grumbled.

“I heard most of that. Oscar you have to let me go over there!” Jaime shouted.

“Jaime I can’t I just can’t I already have two agents over there. I can’t risk Steve’s life by sending another. As far as they are concerned, Marc is just a kid.” Oscar sighed.

“But that’s the problem Oscar, he is a kid.” Jaime reminded.

“I realize that Jaime, but out side you and Steve. Marc is the best agent I have. Like he said Steve taught him everything he knows.”

“I suppose you’re right.” Jaime agreed. “I just hope Marc can handle it.”

“I’m sure he can. He is determined I think that’s a plus.”

Ghalib, Habib, Haddad and Naji had moved Steve from the prison to a house just inside the City limits. “Now what?” Naji asked.

“We see if the kid follows us here.” If he does, then we know the OSI sent him.” Ghalib sneered.

From his new ‘cell’ of a locked room still heavily guarded Steve heard the muffled conversation. Slowly he allowed his eyes to take a quick glance at the guards who stood on either side of the door on the inside. They were busy talking to each other.

‘This may be my only chance’ Steve thought. ‘I only hope Marc can hear me.’ He still felt weak and had drifted in and out of conciseness ever since they shot him in the leg. ‘Marc.’ He whispered. ‘You need to get out of here….’ Once again he lost conciseness.

Marc had been searching everywhere when he heard Steve’s message. It was faint, but he heard it. ‘Well that’s good, at least he’s still around here…I think.’ He thought it would be best to go back to the hotel and see if Habib came back, then he would follow him again.

At the house the four men sat talking. “I better get back to the hotel, I have more guards for our guest. Besides the guards in his room, there are two more outside the room as well as outside the window. Do you think you can handle it from here?”

The other three nodded. “You watch out for that kid.” They warned.

“I can handle a child.” Habib snorted. He headed for the door and stepped out. “Maybe he’s gone home by now anyway.”

“All I can say is he better have” Ghalib agreed.

“Are you going to interrogate him anymore?” Habib asked as he stood at the door.

“We were planning on doing just that as soon as you left, although he hasn’t been doing very well since we shot him in the leg.”

“What do you mean by that?” Habib stopped.

“I don’t know he seems to be getting weaker…”

“Maybe you can use that to your advantage.” Habib smiled. “Let me know what you find out.” He opened the door and stepped out onto the front step. “I’ll be by later tonight.”

“Hopefully we’ll have something for you.” Haddad closed the door and headed for the room they were holding Steve in.

“Ok Austin.” Haddad gave him a kick in the ribs to wake him up. “It’s time we had another talk.” Haddad had the guards drag Steve into the living room they sat him and a chair then stood on either side of him.

“Now I am going to ask you one more time. Why is the OSI interested in our nuclear program?”

Steve could barely speak. “I told you. I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Haddad grabbed a lead pipe from the table and smacked Steve on the head. “Are you sure you don’t know anything about it?”

Steve looked up and gave a slight nod. “I don’t know anything.” He whispered.

Naji stepped over to him. Ok then explain this; your leg, why did it not bleed after we shot you?”

“I don’t understand what you’re talking about Steve groaned.

“The word bionic means nothing to you?” Naji continued.

Haddad and Ghalib looked at one another. “What’s he talking about?” Haddad asked. Ghalib shrugged. “Just let him go.”

“No should it?” Steve asked. He then decided to use it to his advantage. “My leg is artificial if that’s what you mean.”

From where he sat behind a book case in the lobby of the Al Mansour Hotel Marc was now keyed in on the house where they were holding Steve. ‘Now I just need this guy.’ He gave a slight glance to Habib ‘to show me where he is. I just hope he goes there soon. Steve is in big trouble.’

Marc sat for what felt like forever when Habib finally made a move. He walked over to another man seated behind the desk. “I have some errands to run.” He spoke in Arabic. “You watch things till I get back.”

He headed for the door. Marc watched as he stepped out of his hiding place. ‘Now all I have to do is get by him.’ He thought ‘So he won’t call and warn Habib that I’m here.’

Marc was wondering just what to do when a group of men stepped off the elevator and headed for the door. Marc quickly lost himself in the confusion with them, the man Habib had left in charge didn’t see him at all.

Out on the street Marc quickly found his man and he began to follow him using all the skills Steve had taught him. ‘Now you big old creep, show me where Steve is.’ Marc thought to himself.

Habib got into his car and began driving in circles. ‘That ought to throw anyone off my trail.’ Habib smiled. ‘I’m sure if the boy was following me he isn’t now.’

Habib was wrong. Marc had kept up pretty good. He was relived when Habib finally brought his car to a stop.

‘I hope this is where they have Steve.’ Marc watched as Habib opened the door and stepped inside. “Did you have a chat with our friend?” He asked.

“He still won’t talk.” Ghalib snorted.

“Maybe we should call the OSI and Goldman and tell him we have his man, and if he wants him back they are to stay out of our business.” Naji suggested.

From his hiding place just under the wooden steps Marc’s ears again picked up when he heard his father’s name mentioned. ‘I have to get Steve out of there.’ He thought. Marc slipped out of his hiding place and crept around to the side of the house. He stopped when he saw the guards outside the window. ‘Pay dirt’ He quickly tried to devise a plan to distract the two. ‘Where there is smoke, there is fire.’ Marc heard Steve’s voice in his head. ‘I’m sure there are more guards on the inside.’

Marc walked up closer to the guards. He had a rock in his right hand. Taking careful aim he threw it at the first guard striking him in the head.

‘Bull eye!’ Marc congratulated himself.

The other guard watched as his friend fell to the ground. While he was bent over his friend Marc snuck up behind him and kicked him in the ribs sending him falling to the ground unconscious.

Marc peeked in the window ‘Darn’ he thought when he saw there were two more inside.

After thinking for a moment he tapped on the glass of the window. Alerted the two guards stepped over to the window. They saw their friends spread out on the ground and crawled out to investigate. Marc was waiting for them. As they bent over the first two guards Marc smashed each of them in the head with rocks. It happened so fast neither knew what had happened.

“Steve?” Marc called through the window. “Steve, are you alright?”

Steve turned toward the window. “Marc, please tell me your father sent you.” Steve asked.

“He sure did. I’m supposed to get you out of here and back home.” Marc smiled. He crawled through the window and helped him off the bed and over by the window.

Steve looked down at the unconscious forms of the guards sprawled out on the ground under the window. “Did you?”…

“I guess I did Come on let’s get you out of here.” Marc helped Steve climb out the window. “What’s the matter?” He asked when he saw Steve could hardly walk.

“They shot me in the leg.” Steve explained. “It’s bothered me ever since.”

“Let’s get someplace so I can call Dad. Maybe between you, Rudy and me we can figure out what to do.”

Steve allowed Marc to assist him up the street and away from his captors. “How are you going to call?” Steve wondered.

“I’ve been using a pay phone.” Marc explained. “It’s just up the street.”

Oscar and Rudy were still sitting in Oscar’s office. Jaime had drifted to sleep on the couch. They all jumped when Oscar’s private line rang.

“Marc?” Oscar called.

“Yea dad I have Steve but…” Marc explained what the situation was and Oscar put Rudy right on.

Rudy listened then gave Marc instructions on how to repair Steve’s leg

“There.” Steve commented I feel a little better.” He told Rudy after Marc handed him the phone.

“You won’t have your bionic strength though, not until you get back here and I can repair the damage.” Rudy told him.

“At least we can get out of here.” Steve replied.

Oscar took the phone from Rudy. “Steve while you’ve been talking to Rudy I’ve made arrangements to get you out of there. Go to the American Embassy. They’re waiting for you.”

“Ok Oscar, we’re on our way.” Marc and Steve headed in the direction of the Embassy.

At the house Ghalib once again went to get Steve for more questioning when he saw he was gone he hit the ceiling. “I want him back here right now!” He ordered.

“We’ll get right on it.” Haddad and Naji assured.

As Steve and Marc approached the Embassy they saw the Ghalib, Haddad, Naji and Habib were standing outside the embassy…

“Now what do we do?” Marc groaned.

“Let’s go this way” Steve suggested. “Uh oh, to late.”

“There they are!” Habib shouted. “Get them!” They started running after Marc and Steve.

“Come on Marc.” Steve grabbed Marc’s collar “let’s go this way.”

They started up the street with Ghalib and his men chasing them. “We can’t let them get away.” Ghalib shouted.

Steve ducked behind a building holding on to Marc. “I think we put enough distance between us and them. Now I can’t run at full speed but you can. I want you to run Marc run as fast as you can, call Oscar and tell him we need help over here.”

“I can’t leave you dad.” Marc looked up at him.

“Marc you’ll do as you’re told. I’ll distract them and you high tail it back to the embassy. Do you hear me?”

Marc shook his head. “I won’t leave you.”

Oscar, Rudy and Jaime hadn’t moved since they had spoken to Marc and Steve. They sat waiting for the call Marc was to make once they got to the embassy. “I’m giving it another ten minutes…then I’m calling the embassy myself.” Oscar grumbled.

“Oscar calm down.” Rudy soothed. “They’ll call.”

“I hope you’re right Rudy. What if something happened?”

“What could happen? They were on their way to the embassy.”

“I don’t know but…”

“Oscar if anything else goes wrong, I’m going over there.” Jaime interjected.

Oscar nodded. “I may have no choice. Now that Steve is ‘out of danger’ so to speak” He sighed. “Give it another ten minutes then I’ll call the embassy.”

“In the mean time I’m going to go home and pack. I’m sure I’ll be making the trip.” Jaime stated.

“I hope it doesn’t come to that.” Oscar sighed as she stepped out the door.

“This really has you upset, huh?” Rudy asked.

Oscar nodded. “It sure does. I never should have sent Marc.”

“Come on Oscar besides Steve and Jaime what other agent is better qualified?” Rudy questioned.

“No one…but…”

“It will be fine Oscar. Why don’t you call the embassy, see if they got there.”

Oscar reached for the phone. “I hope you’re right.” He sighed.

Knowing he would do the exact same thing, and not really wanting Marc walking the streets of Riyadh by himself any more than he already had, Steve gave Marc a quick smile and ruffled his hair. “Ok partner, let’s try to find a way out of this.”

Marc thought for a minute. “Let’s try the embassy again. If they are out looking for us, maybe they left it unguarded.”

‘You have a point there. You stay with me though.” Steve kept Marc close to him. “Come on Marc stay close to me.” Steve said.

“Don’t worry, I came to rescue you remember?”

Again Steve smiled at him. “You’re right…”

“And besides what are you going to do anyway? You can’t fight them off.”

“Ok, we’ll head back to the embassy.” Steve continued to keep Marc as close to him as possible even though if push came to shove, Marc would have to be the one doing the shoving.

“What do you mean they aren’t there yet?” Oscar screamed into the phone. “They should have been there at the very least ten minutes ago!”

Rudy sat in stunned silence as Oscar listened to the person on the other end of the line.

“I’m sorry sir, they have not arrived yet. We are ready the minute they arrive…hang on just a second….”

Oscar waited an agonizing three minutes before Steve’s voice came over the line. “Hi Oscar it’s me. We ran into a little trouble but we’re here now.”

“Thank goodness for that.” Oscar breathed a sigh of relief as Jaime stepped in. “Here I’ll let you speak to your wife. Marc is with you right?”

“He’s right here. Let me speak to Jaime then I’ll let him talk to you.”

Oscar handed the phone to Jaime who set her suitcase on the floor beside her. “I was just getting ready to come over there and look for you myself.” Jamie told him.

“You stay put Marc and I are on the next flight out of here. We’re leaving in about an hour we have to stay the night in London and should be home sometime tomorrow night.”

“That sounds good we’ll be there to meet you.” Jaime handed the phone back to Oscar “He says they should be home by tomorrow.”

Oscar took the phone. “Steve? Jaime says you’ll be home by tomorrow night?”

“That’s right. Here Marc wants to talk to you.” Steve handed the phone to Marc. “Hi dad we’re leaving here in just a bit. We have to stay the night in London but we’ll be home tomorrow.”

“Ok son, we’ll see you then.” Oscar hung up and turned to Jaime and Rudy. “Well I suggest we all go home and get a well deserved rest.” He suggested.

“I won’t argue with that one.” Rudy smiled. “I’m just glad everything worked out the way it did.”

“You and me both” Oscar agreed.

In Riyadh two American guards as well as the American Ambassador escorted Steve and Marc past Ghalib and company and headed for the airport. “I’m only sorry you have to stay in London tonight.” The Ambassador stated. But in order to get you on a direct flight to DC you would have to wait till tomorrow.”

“That’s fine, we don’t mind.” Steve took Marc’s hand and the two of them headed down the steps toward the plane.

“The American Ambassador to Great Britain will meet you at Heathrow.” The Ambassador shouted.

“Thanks.” Steve kept pushing Marc onto the plane. He wasn’t going to rest till they were both on and the plane was safe in the air.

The minute they sat down on the plane Marc fell asleep on Steve’s shoulder. ‘My rescuer’ Steve smiled.

Steve had just started to doze himself when they touched down in London. The American Ambassador was waiting for them. “You’ll stay with me tonight, and I’ll see to it that you make it back here tomorrow.” The Ambassador smiled.

“I’d rather just stay here.” Marc interjected.

“Marc, you need a good night’s sleep. I’m sure everyone at home is doing the same thing.” Steve explained. “We’ll be right back here in the morning in the mean time we could both use a hot shower, some good food and a good night’s sleep.”

“I suppose you’re right.” Marc sighed as they walked through the deserted airport.

“Besides” the Ambassador added “the airport is shut down for the night. You can’t get anything to eat.”

The next day Jaime busied herself around the house till it was time to meet with Oscar and Rudy and go to the airport. She debated as to weather or not to take the kids then at the last moment thought it best to leave them home with Lynda.

Oscar decided to leave Joey home but Matt wanted to go along and meet his brother. They were all waiting when Steve and Marc’s plane touched down at Dulles.

“I’m sorry Oscar.” Steve apologized as they made their way through the airport.

“Sorry, about what?” Oscar wondered.

“I messed up the mission. They were onto me the instant I got there.” Steve told him.

“I’m sorry you had to go through all of that. By they way, how’s the leg?” Oscar asked.

“I’m walking on it that’s about it.” Steve sighed. “I suppose we better stop by the lab before we do anything.”

“I’ve got everything all set up.” Rudy offered. “From the sounds of it, it will only take a half hour tops”

“Well that’s good I want to get home to my kids. I wish you would have brought them with you Jaime.” He scolded as they walked toward the cars. “I figured it would be a long night Jennifer really needs her rest.” Jaime explained.

“I guess you’re right. Let’s get this over with so I can get home. You know there was a time I didn’t think I’d ever see you or the kids again.”

“I’m just glad you’re back” Jaime smiled.

They went straight to Rudy’s lab. It took Rudy a little more than half an hour to repair the damage caused by Ghalib’s bullet.

“So what was the problem?” Steve asked once Rudy had finished.

“The bullet severed some wiring that feeds to the main circuit board. The circuit board is fine, it was the wires that got clipped.”

“So, nothing serious?” Oscar stood over them

“No Oscar nothing serious. H’ll be fine.” Rudy informed.

Two days later Steve was telling Oscar what had gone wrong with the mission. Marc sat next to him.

“The only problem I had was listening to their conversations.” Marc admitted.

“You had trouble with your hearing?” Rudy wondered.

“No. I could hear the conversation just fine. It’s the conversation I couldn’t understand I couldn’t understand what they were saying.” Marc continued.

Dan sat at Rudy’s desk listening to the conversation. “I might have an idea.” He said after giving the situation some thought.

“What’s that Dan?” Rudy asked.

“A devise installed in his and Jaime’s ear that would translate any language into English.”

“Is that possible?” Rudy asked.

“I think we could make it work. Of course I’ll try it on Marc first. I don’t want to do any unnecessary procedures on Jaime till the baby is born.”

“I agree with that” Steve mumbled.

“Is it ok for us to do it with Marc?” We need your permission.”

“Permission granted.” Steve and Oscar said together.

“Then I’ll get started right now.” Dan stood and headed for Rudy’s lab.

A week later the new hearing unit was ready to be installed. “Ok Marc.” Rudy spoke. “Dan here is going to speak to you in several different languages. You right down everything he says.”

“Ok Rudy. Ready.” Marc nodded.

Dan whispered to Marc in every language he could speak. The new ear worked perfect. Marc understood everything that was said to him.

“This is great.” Oscar exclaimed. “Now Marc and Jaime will be able to not only hear other conversations, they’ll be able to understand if the person is using another language.”

“I’m just glad it worked.” Dan stated.

“Same here” Jaime and Marc agreed.

“By the way Rudy when will Steve be ready for his next mission?” Oscar asked.

“Anytime” Rudy nodded, “he’s ready anytime.”

“Good I’ve got something for him…” He turned to Marc “and since you did so well on this mission…I have something for you as well.”

“Ugh!!!” Marc and Steve groaned.