“That ought to stop them.” He thought aloud. “Now let me see if I can get back home.”

He had been on this particular mission for well over two weeks now and he was ready to get home.

“Why not Goldman?” Gregory asked for the third time that morning.

“I told you Gregory. Dan works here. The only reason I allow it is because I’m here. Again the answer is no. The NSB can not borrow Danny.”

I don’t see what the harm is Goldman. All the NSB wants is to borrow Dan for a few days. We could really use his intelligence.”

“Dan is my son. Not a used car. Thank you very much. I’m not in the habit of loaning my children out!! Oscar thundered. “Now please leave my office.”

“We’ll see about that!” Gregory stormed out of Oscar’s office He headed straight for David Harrison’s office. David Harrison was Oscars boss.

Oscar didn’t give Gregory much more thought. His mind quite frankly was on other things. He had sent Steve on a mission two weeks ago and had only heard from him once. He was starting to get a little nervous.

“I’m telling you Harrison.” Gregory began. “Goldman isn’t doing his job. I mean since he became a father and his kids started working for the OSI I think he’s gotten soft.”

“I see what you mean Gregory.” Harrison said looking up from the file he was reading on Marc. “I think you’re right.” Harrison said looking up from the file. “I don’t think he uses him on assignments like he should either. I’ll look into it and see if there isn’t something I can do about it.”

“If you’re looking for a new assistant director I can handle the job.” Gregory said as he stood to leave.

Harrison looked up at him.

“Before you say anything. I know I work over at the NSB, but if you need a fast replacement until you can find one on a more permanent basis, I’d be more than happy to full fill the obligation. I have some vacation coming and…”

“Gregory, You know that just might be what this agency needs. I think Oscar Goldman needs some time to regroup. I’ll give him all the time he needs with that new family of his. You will be in charge from now on or at least till I can find someone else.” Harrison announced to the smiling Gregory.

After blowing up the bridge Steve continued to run. Although at this point, Steve would have referred to it more as a light jog. He could still hear them coming “I wish they would give up.” Steve said to himself. “Guess that micro chip I took from them is pretty valuable.”

He turned around for a moment to see if the bridge was going to stop his pursuers. It had. “Well that’s good.” Steve muttered as he came out of the woods.

He saw a small café and headed for it. He set his things down in a booth and headed for the pay phone.

At the OSI Oscar was becoming more and more nervous that something terrible had happened. He was relieved when his private line rang he picked up the phone on the first ring. “Steve?” He asked hopefully.

“Yea Oscar It’s me.” Steve replied.

“Boy am I glad to hear you voice. You had me worried…”

“Yea well listen I have the chip I’m on my way back.” Steve informed him.

“That’s great Steve. Why haven’t I heard from you before this?”

“Long story. I’ll fill you in when I get back.” Steve explained.

“I’ll have a plane warming up for you at the airport.” Oscar assured him.

“I’d appreciate that pal. See you in a couple of hours.” Steve hung up. He sat in the booth and ordered something to eat. He couldn’t believe he had managed to escape those people and only hoped they wouldn’t catch up to him. He kept a watch out the window. They were still trapped on the other side of the ravine with no way of getting across.

If only Steve realized his real battle was about to begin. And it would be with his own people.

Oscar hung up arranging the plane for Steve when the door to his office flew open. Gregory and Harrison entered followed by Callahan

“I’m sorry sir. They wouldn’t let me announce them.” Callahan apologized.

“That’s ok Callahan. What do you want Harrison.” Oscar scowled as he stood to greet his ‘guests’. “I have work to do so make it quick would you?”

“Oscar we need to talk. Have a seat.” Harrison indicated for Oscar to sit down.

Oscar took a seat behind his desk “I suppose Gregory told you I’m not in the habit of lending my children out?”

“Actually Gregory and I have had quite the conversation. I feel we really need to talk” Harrison began again. “I feel you.” Harrison paused. “Well since you adopted your nephews your work is less than adequate.” Harrison began

“Excuse me sir” Oscar replied. He didn’t bother to cover up the fact he was shocked by what Gregory had just said.

“I feel you are preoccupied with home issues” Harrison informed him. “It happens to the best of us. You can’t concentrate on your work because you are worried about some mundane issue at home…”

“I disagree” Oscar argued.

“I don’t” Harrison interrupted. “Take your son Marc for instance. We have spent millions of dollars on his bionic replacements and will spend a lot more as he grows older. When was the last time he was on an assignment?”

“With all due respect David. My son Marc is only eight.” Oscar tried to point out.

“I have a question Oscar. Lets say Marc wasn’t your son. Would you send him on missions.”

Oscar stared at him blankly. “I really don’t think that merits an answer. I have used Marc on assignments He has assisted Steve on plenty. You see my problem is Marc is not allowed to cross the street by himself, much less…”

Gregory spoke for the first time. “That is what I’m saying Harrison. The Oscar Goldman I used to know wouldn’t worry about such things.”

“I quite agree Gregory.” He turned back to Oscar. “Oscar I think its time we made a few changes around here.” Harrison spoke slowly.

“What kind of changes sir.” Oscar felt he really didn’t need to ask.

“We are going to make it easy for you to spend more time with your family. You can go home and relax. Maybe in a few years, when the kids are a little older…”

Oscar couldn’t speak. “Are you telling me I’m fired?” He looked at Harrison

“No not that bad. Don’t worry, you can remain in your home with your children, I just feel we need to make some changes.” Harrison explained. “You can go. Go home to your kids. They need their father.”

Oscar gathered up his personal possessions and left his office. A security guard was waiting for him just outside. “I’ll see you get out of the building. Mr. Goldman.” The guard said.

“Thanks but I know the way.” Oscar scowled. Nonetheless the guard followed Oscar out to the parking lot.

Oscar watched out the window as Steve taxied his plane across the runway He hadn’t been able to contact Steve since his conversation with Harrison and Gregory.

Steve was shocked to see his friend waiting for him. “Oscar what is it. More trouble. If I have to go back out I would at least like the time to take a shower first.”

“I don’t think even you can get us out of this one.” Oscar sighed.

“Oscar what’s the problem?” Steve asked.

“Well let me start out by saying, you have a new boss”

“Want to run that one by me again?” Steve stared at him

“I just came from a meeting with my boss. He has relieved me of my duties.”

“Oscar you can’t be serious.” Steve stood frozen staring at Oscar. “Why?” Steve wanted to know.

“They say that since I took the kids I’ve gone soft. Harrison is upset that I don’t use Marc more on assignments.”

“You did tell him Marc was only eight? Didn’t you?”

“Its a long story Steve. Lets go back to my place and I’ll fill you in on what’s been going on.”

When they got to the house it was empty. “This is odd” Oscar exclaimed.

“What is odd?” Steve asked

“Well Jaime and the kids should be here.” Oscar stated

“Her car is in the drive.” Steve indicated. Maybe they are outside?”

“Jaime is very strict about her schedule “ Oscar proclaimed. “The kids are in class till 11:00. Then they have lunch and are back to work by 1:00”

Steve glanced at his watch. “It’s 1”30 now.”

“Yea I know.” Oscar stated as the began to look around.

They searched the house. Steve finally found a note on the dinning room table.

Oscar

Gregory came to get us. We are at the OSI I’m not real sure what’s going on.”

Jaime

“I wonder what this is all about.” Steve pondered.

“Lets get over to the OSI and find out. I’m sure I have a pretty god idea.” Oscar called as he headed for the door.

They arrived at the OSI and headed for Oscars office

A strange woman sat in Callahan’s desk. “May I help you?” She addressed Steve and Oscar.

“I need to see…” Oscar stopped He had no idea who had replaced him.

“Did you wish to see Inspector Gregory?” The secretary asked.

Steve and Oscar exchanged looks. “Yes I guess that’s who I want to see.” Oscar stated.

“Do you have an appointment?” She asked

“No I don’t…”

Well then it will be impossible for you to see him.”

“How about my wife. Jaime.” Steve began. “She left a note at Oscars house saying she was here. That’s all we wanted to know.”

“She is busy. She is tutoring Mr. Goldman’s children.” The secretary snapped.

“I’m Oscar Goldman, I want my children to come home!!” He shouted.

Hearing the commotion Gregory stepped out of the inner office “Zelda, what is going on out here I’m trying to work.”

“Where are my kids Gregory?” Oscar demanded rushing over to him.

“Don’t worry Oscar they are fine. Since they work for this agency I felt they ought to be here during the day. That way if anything comes up…”

“They only worked here because I did. And since my services are no longer required my children don’t work here either.”

“I’m afraid it doesn’t work that way Goldman. And since you no longer work here I suggest you leave.”

“Wait you have no call…” Steve began.

“Its ok Steve. I’ll leave. Will my children be home tonight?” Oscar interrupted.

“I’ll see to it that they get home.” Gregory was a bit calmer now.

“Come on Steve.” The two of them turned to leave ‘Gregory’s’ office.

“Austin” Gregory called. Steve turned to him

“What?” Steve asked

“You have something for me?” Gregory reminded.

“Huh.” Steve stared after Oscar

“You were sent to retrieve a micro chip. I assume you have it. Other wise why are you here?”

“Yea I have the chip. Steve removed it from his pocket and laid it on the desk.

“Thank you. You may go now.” Gregory picked up the microchip and put it away.

“Will my wife be home tonight as well? I would really like to see her.”

“As I said. She is very busy right now. But yes. I’ll see to it she gets home.” Gregory related. “I’ll see you sometime soon I’m sure…”

Steve left Gregory and headed for Rudy’s office. “Rudy how are you holding up.”

“Steve. Am I glad you’re back? You’ve heard?’ Rudy lowered his voice. “Gregory is in charge?”

“Yea, I heard. I’ve already met with him.” Steve fumed. “This is just so unbelievable “ He added.

“Yea I know. You know he has the kids here. He’s asked me to bring them in everyday. They’ll go home with me at night. Dan is here too.”

“Jaime can’t tutor Danny” Steve seethed

“She’s not. Danny is working.” Rudy explained.

“Working? Danny has to go to school!” Steve was becoming angrier by the moment.

“I know. He took Danny out of school this morning. He brought him here and stuck him in an office with a stack of papers for him to decode.”

“I can’t believe this is happening. How did this happen Rudy?”

“I can’t tell you how, but I can tell you why?”

“Well why then.” Steve wondered

“Gregory asked Oscar if he could borrow Danny to do some decoding for the NSB. Oscar refused. And Gregory went to Harrison, and told him Oscar wasn’t doing his job.”

“Harrison believed it?” Steve asked

Rudy nodded. “He bought the whole thing. He hired Gregory on the spot and fired Oscar.”

They were still talking when Gregory entered Rudy’s office. “Col Austin? Why are you still here? Dr. Wells has work to do. He doesn’t have time to sit around and chat.”

Rudy turned to him “You forget Gregory, I’m Steve’s Dr. He has just come back from a very rough assignment. He needs to have a physical. So if you don’t mind, this is my lab I would thank you to leave!”

“If he needs to be examined then I suggest you get to it. I don’t want him hanging around.”

“What ever you say.” Rudy seethed.

“That is what I say. I need you on other projects.” Glared at him. “So I suggest you get busy.”

“Can I see my wife?” Steve turned to him.

“At home tonight. She is still working.” Gregory informed him

“Its after three, they should be done with school for the day.” Steve informed him

“They will be done, when I say they are done. Now you need to be examined. I suggest you allow the Dr. to do so. He has other things to tend to.”

Gregory stepped into the room he had set up as a classroom for Oscar’s kids. “I guess that is enough for one day. I need to see Marc in my office. He needs to be briefed on a mission he is to go on tomorrow.”

“A mission?” Jaime complained “To where?”

“That is not your concern at the moment.” He looked at Jaime. “I still don’t see why Dr. Wells has you on restrictive duty. I’m sure you could handle just about anything.”

“Well I’m sure I could too. Its just that he doesn’t want to take any chances.” Jaime wanted to hit him.

“Anyway, if you must know, Marc will be going to South East Asia Thailand to be exact. We have a problem over there. And young Marc here is just the person to handle it. So if you’ll come with me. I’ll brief you and get you your pass port.”

“I don’t want to go to Asia or Thailand!” Marc shouted as Gregory led him down the hall.

“Oh that poor kid.” Jaime sighed as she watched the scene. “I wish I could do some thing.” She turned to Matt and Joey.

“Tell Steve. He won’t let Gregory send Marc away.” Matt cried.

“Its ok Matt we won’t let him.” Jaime assured.

Again the door opened and Gregory stepped in again. “I just read the paper work on my young friend Matt here. It seems like you and your brother communicate with one another?”

Matt looked at Jaime who nodded. “They can just a little.” She explained. “They have trouble when they are far apart though.”

“I want to work on improving that. Since they are identical twins I just may be able to use them both.”

“I don’t think that is a wise choice.” Jaime muttered to herself.

On the way home in the car Jaime told Steve what had happened.

“He wants to send Marc where?” Steve slammed on the breaks almost sending Jaime through the wind -shield. “There is no way, listen I’ll talk to him in the morning. It may be a very heated conversation.” Steve added.

“Steve what are we going to do?” Jaime wondered. “Gregory doesn’t want you there unless he calls you. He has poor Dan working on everything.”

“Dan needs to be in school.” Steve told her.

“Yea I know.”

Oscar stood on the front porch waiting for Rudy to arrive home with the kids. He was shocked when Rudy told him what Gregory had planned for Marc.

“No way how does he expect an eight year old to go off to Asia by himself?” Oscar screamed.

“I don’t know, but he’s sending a car for Marc at 7:00 in the morning.” Rudy informed him.

“I’ll call Steve. Maybe he can come up with something.” Oscar sighed. “I want you kids to go upstairs as soon as dinner is over.”

“I’m not hungry.” Dan proclaimed, “I’m to tired to even turn around. I’m going straight to bed.”

“Dan you need to eat something.” Rudy reminded.

“Yea I know…” Dan’s words drifted as he fell asleep standing up.

“I don’t know Oscar I wish there was something I could do.” Steve spoke into the phone. I wanted to talk to Gregory tomorrow but I understand you can’t get in to see him with out an appointment. I don’t think he’ll give me one.”

“My son is not I repeat not going anywhere tomorrow except maybe to school. I’m not going to have Jaime teach them anymore. I’ll send them to public school if I have to. They are my kids! I have the final say as to where they go to school!” Oscar screamed.

“Calm down Oscar we’ll think of something. Maybe Gregory will let me go with Marc.”

“Don’t count on it. I’m sure he has something planned for you. You know Rudy says he’s furious that Jaime can’t to anywhere.”

Steve spoke through clenched teeth “That’s because he doesn’t think of us as human beings. He thinks of us as machines!”

“I’m sorry Steve. This is my fault. If I would have just lent Danny to…”

“He’s a thirteen year old boy, not an automobile.” Steve fumed

“Yea I know, but this never would have happened if…”

“Oscar you can’t blame yourself. Maybe I’ll call Gregory tonight and plead with him not to send Marc…”

“Don’t bother. I already tried, he won’t take our calls.” Oscar sighed.

Steve slammed the phone down. “What is it honey?” Jaime wondered.

“Dam that Gregory. Oscar says he won’t even talk to us. Some boss huh?”

“Steve calm down. Marc won’t go anywhere tomorrow I’m sure Gregory will see how wrong it is.”

“I don’t think so. You also said he wants to use both twins?” Steve looked over at her

“Yea. He says he found out that they could talk to each other. He wants to use it.”

“Did you explain that they have a range limit?” Steve was pacing the floor

“He said He would work on improving it.” Jaime told him

“Rudy says that could be dangerous. He doesn’t even like it when the twins do it close range. He thinks it could hurt them in the long run.”

“Well try telling Gregory that.” Jaime hissed.

“Well I’m hitting the sack early. I need to get up early I’m hoping to catch Gregory on his way in tomorrow.”

“He won’t talk to you Steve.” Jaime warned. “Do you know what he’s having me teach the kids?”

“No what?” Steve asked

“He wants them to know two different languages by the end of the school year.”

“I’m afraid only Danny can handle that one.” Steve stared upstairs

“Oh well he has plans for Danny.” Jaime followed him.

“I’m sure he does.”

“He was almost giddy when he discovered Dan speaks, reads and writes as many languages as he does.” Jaime informed him.

“I’m sure he was. I’ll see what I can come up with in the morning.”

Late that night Steve was awakened to the sound of a gun being cocked. He turned and discovered they were not alone in the room…

“Dan? What is gong on?” Steve demanded. As Dan stood beside him with a gun pointed at him

“Don’t say a word and get up.” Dan gave him a glazed look.

Steve slowly climbed out of bed. “Come on Dan, think about what you are doing.” Steve tried to reason

“I have thought about it Steve. Get up you’re coming with me. Don’t wake Jaime up. I just want you not her.”

“Come on Dan, put that thing down.” Steve again demanded

“No way.” Dan stated. “I put it down and you grab it.” Dan held the gun so tight his knuckles were turning white

In the bed Jaime started to stir. ‘Jaime don’t move just lay still. Steve warned. I think Dan is kidnapping me.’

Jaime didn’t move she just lay there listening to what was going on.

Steve finished dressing and Dan led him downstairs. Steve was surprised but not shocked to see Matt and Marc sitting on the couch.

Marc ran to him “Steve do something Dan is really scaring me.” He cried.

“Its ok Marc. Lets just see what happens.” He turned to Dan. “Ok Dan what now?” Steve turned to him.

“Now we go.” Dan said.

“Where are we going Dan?” Steve questioned.

“Don’t ask questions. Just get in your car. I’ll give you directions. Dan took a note from his pocket and threw it on the couch “Now lets go.”

Steve quickly scanned the note before Dan forced him out of the house.

Gregory

I have taken Marc; He will never go anywhere for you I needed some one to do the driving so I have Steve too. If you want to see them again you will resign from OSI giving my father back control otherwise…

Dan

‘So,’ Steve thought ‘I am being kidnapped. And now I know why. Dan is trying to protect Marc. I guess I’m supposed to drive the get away car.’

“I said get moving!!” Dan shouted still pointing the gun at Steve.

“Dan I really wish you would put that thing down. I’m afraid it might go off accidently. Look I’ll do what you want. Just give me the gun, ok?”

“You must think I’m stupid. Look I know what I’m doing. Now we are all getting in your car and driving off.” He turned to the twins. “You two sit in the back.”

The terrified twins turned to Steve. “Its ok guys. Just get in.”

The four of them got in the car “Ok Dan where to?” Steve turned to him. Dan continued to look at him with glazed eyes.

“Just drive. I’ll give you directions.” Dan told him

“Ok.” Steve looked at the gun. Dan seemed to have control of it.

“Just be careful with that.” Steve warned again

“Just shut up and drive. Gregory is not going to use me or my brothers anymore.”

“Is that what this is about Dan?” Steve questioned as he pulled onto the street. ‘Don’t worry Jaime Dan left a note on the couch.’ Steve whispered as they started up the street.

Dan watched Steve’s lips move “Are you talking to Jaime?” he shouted.

“I just told her not to worry Dan” Steve explained.

“You better not tell her where we are going.” Dan thundered

“How can I? I don’t even know.” Steve said as he drove along the deserted streets at four in the morning.

“Ok then you need to take a right up here.” Steve tried to watch the road and Dan at the same time while glancing into the review mirror to see how the twins were doing.

“Dan.” Steve tried to make conversation. “I saw your note. You don’t have to do this.”

“I said just be quiet and drive.” Dan again demanded.

“Ok Dan.” Steve thought it was best to just play it out. “What way now.”

Dan looked to see where they were. “Make another right.”

“I know you only want to protect your brothers, but this is not the way to do it.” Steve tried to reason with him

“It is the only way. That Gregory is a heartless bastard.”

In the backseat the twins gasped. “Dan said a bad word.” Matt proclaimed.

“I’m not worried about that Matt.” Steve said. “You were saying Dan.”

“You can’t reason with the man he has no heart.” Dan continued.

“Dan look, lets just go back and I’ll talk to Gregory…”

“He won’t listen.” Dan shouted waving the gun around.

“Ok, ok Dan just hold that thing still. I’ll take you where you want to go.”

Dan relaxed and held the gun steady. ‘That’s better’. Steve thought. I’m not real sure how to handle this one. I have never been kidnapped by a kid before.’

As soon as Steve left with the kids Jaime headed down stairs and found the note Dan left on the couch.

She read it a couple of times then called Oscar.

It took several rings before a sleepy Oscar picked up the phone. “Hello.”

“Oscar its Jaime. Steve has been kidnapped…”

“Kidnapped? By who?” Oscar wanted to know

“You’re not going to believe it. Your son Danny” Jaime told him.

“What?” Oscar shouted. “You can’t be serious.”

“I’m very serious. Your son Danny broke into our house and took Steve at gunpoint.”

“I’ll be right there I’ll have Rudy watch the other kids.” Oscar started getting ready to go over to Steve’s house.

“Just one kid Oscar. Dan has the twins too.” Jaime explained.

“He has the … what is going on?” Oscar demanded.

“Dan left a note. It explains everything.”

“I’d still like to know where I’m going Dan.” Steve said as he continued to drive.

You don’t need to know. Dan told him. “Make a left a the next corner.”

“Dan, do you even know where we are going?” Steve turned toward him

“Of course I do!!!” Dan screamed.

“Ok” Steve was wondering just exactly what Dan had planned.

As soon as Oscar hung up from Jaime he went to Rudy’s apartment. “Rudy we have trouble. .He told Rudy what Jaime had just told him. “Listen I’ll get Joey meet me in the car.”

“Sure Oscar.”

Ten minutes later. Rudy and Oscar sat in Jaime and Steve’s living room Oscar read the note several times.

“This is not like Dan at all. I mean to kidnap Steve?” Oscar muttered as the read the note.

“I wonder, Rudy mused if a kid takes a grown up can you actually call it kidnapping?”

“I better call Russ.” Oscar stated.

“Shouldn’t you call Gregory?” Rudy wondered.

He won’t take our calls remember?” Oscar reminded.

“That’s right.” Rudy glanced at his watch. “Gregory will be at the house soon. He’ll wonder where everybody is.”

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

“Lets go over to your house Oscar.” Jaime suggested.

They arrived at Oscar’s the same time Gregory did. Gregory was furious. “This is a trick. Steve took Marc.”

“I’m afraid not.” Jaime spoke up. If that were the plan I would have gone with him.”

“I guess you’re right.” Gregory presumed.

“Our biggest question is where would Dan take them?” Rudy pointed out.

“I don’t know.” Oscar sighed

“I’ll send my people out to look for them, Marc really needs to leave this morning I have to find him.”

“Haven’t you learned anything?” Rudy shouted.

“What are you talking about? Gregory hissed.

“I mean Dan had to resort to kidnapping his own brothers to keep you away from them.” Rudy hissed back.

“That doesn’t matter.” Gregory snorted.

Steve had been driving most of the night. “Here. Steve, turn in here.” Dan pointed to a school.

“Ok Dan. But why here?” Steve asked as he pulled into the parking lot.

“You’ll see. It’s Saturday. Monday is a holiday. I have plans.”

“Ok. “ Steve parked the car and they followed Dan into the building.

“This way.” Dan called.

Steve held tightly to the twins. “Its ok guys. Dan won’t hurt you.”

They followed Dan into the kitchen “Ok this is where we stop.” Dan pointed to the huge walk in freezer

“Dan you don’t intend too…” Steve protested.

Dan pulled a syringe out of his pocket he plunged them in to Steve and Marc’s back. Then he removed the heat capsules from their arms. He then dragged them inside the freezer and locked the door…

“Dan.” Matt cried. “You know what will happen. You can’t do that!” Matt continued to argue.

“You be quiet or I throw you in too.” Dan shouted at Matt. “You hear me? You be quiet I have to think.”

In the freezer Marc came around Steve was still unconscious. “Steve!” Marc called “Steve please wake up.”

Steve opened his eyes. “Its ok I’m awake Marc.” Steve looked at him

Marc pulled himself closer to Steve. “Why did Dan do this to us? He knows what will happen.” Marc wondered as he huddled next to Steve to try and keep warm.

“I don’t know.” Steve tried to hold Marc. “Come here Marc. I’ll get us out of here ok you just hang in there.”

Steve reached his left hand over to break open the heat capsule that was just under the skin of his right arm. “Well I see your brother was smart enough to remove it.” Steve muttered.

“What are we going to do?” Marc’s voice shivered

“I’m not sure. I guess Dan doesn’t want us to go anywhere. Listen Marc. Tell me what happened last night.” Steve’s voice too shivered.

“I don’t really know. Nothing really. Dan went to bed as soon as we got home Matt and I went right after dinner. We were real tired.” Marc answered. “I guess it’s hard work working for Gregory. He didn’t even let Matt and I take a break.”

. “Yea? Well we’ll see if there isn’t something we can’t do about that.” Steve held Marc as close as he could. Listen I have a question. How did you kids get to my place?” Steve wondered.

“Dan came in our room and woke us up. He kept waving that gun around and telling us we had to go with him.” Marc told him.

“Why didn’t you go get your dad?” Steve asked.

“He wouldn’t let me. We walked downstairs and out the front door. I was hoping dad would find out.”

“Then what?” Steve pressed. He wanted to keep both of them talking Steve knew it could be very dangerous if they were to go to sleep. He had to keep Marc talking..

“We got on the bus and came to your house. I didn’t know what Dan was up to.” Marc cried. “Steve he was really scary. He looked at us with his eyes all funny.”

‘Funny? What do you mean?” Steve asked as he tried to warm up his arm by rubbing it.

“I’m not sure. It’s like he isn’t looking at us, but he sees us. Real strange.”

“I’m going to get us out of this” Steve knew one of them had to get warmed up in order to force the door open. For the first time he noticed Marc was dressed only in his pajamas. “Oh Marc. You have on short pajamas too.” He took off his jacked and wrapped it around Marc.

“Gregory!” Oscar began

“I don’t believe Dan kidnapped Steve. I’m sure it was the other way around. I mean come on a kid kidnapping Steve. Just doesn’t add up.”

“Well I think you better accept it.” Oscar stated. “You read the note.”

“Yes. I read it.” Gregory smirked.

“Look. Gregory. I know Steve. He wouldn’t be the one to take the kids and leave a note saying Danny did it.” Oscar surmised.

“And what makes you so sure.” Gregory scoffed.

“He loves my kids. That’s how I know. He cares about them.” Oscar explained. “And the kids adore him, especially the twins. They think he is the best thing to come along since bubble gum.”

“Let me see that a minute Oscar.” Rudy took the note from Oscar “You know he said this isn’t even Dan’s handwriting.”

“What?” Oscar took the note from Rudy. “You’re right. It is like Dan’s but not his.”

“Yea! Right!” Gregory interrupted. “Then it must be Steve’s.”

“No it isn’t his either.” Rudy took the paper back. “Dan is left handed this was written by someone who is right handed.”

“I don’t think I follow.” Gregory turned to both of them. “Did Dan take them?”

“Yes he did. I saw it.” Jaime interjected.

“Why?” Gregory wanted to know “Why wouldn’t Steve fight him?”

“I might be able to offer an explanation “ Rudy interjected

“And what might that be Dr?” Gregory spat. “I’m sure you’re all in this together.”

“No Gregory.” Jaime shook her head. “Dan broke in my house and took Steve out at gunpoint. You were saying Rudy.”

“Uh yes this is not like Dan. I’m sure Steve was able to see that. He just doesn’t want to hurt Dan.”

“Where did he get the gun?” Gregory was still skeptical

“He must have taken mine. I didn’t think they even knew I had one. I keep it locked in the wall safe.” Oscar stated. He walked over to the wall safe and opened it. Oscars pistol was gone.

“Well then.” Gregory smirked “guess young Daniel is in some big trouble.”

“Look Gregory why don’t you let me handle my own family.” Oscar pressured.

“No Oscar I will file charges. If he is the one who did the kidnapping that is. I still think Col Austin took them.

“Steve! What are you doing?” Marc’s teeth chattered when he talked.

“Getting at least of us warmed so we can force that door open. Now come on Marc lets see if we can warm you up.”

“But you’ll freeze too.” Marc noted.

“Better me than you.” Steve kept rubbing Marc’s arm in hopes of warming it up. Besides, you’re only in your pajamas.” Steve kept rubbing Marc’s arm “You feeling better?”

“A little.” Marc replied.

Feel like you could open the door?” Steve wondered.

“I don’t know. I’ll give it a try.” Marc responded

“Good man!” Steve stated. “Now lets get up and get over to the door.”

Marc tried to stand but his legs gave out and he fell to the floor. “Steve I can’t get over to the door.” Marc cried.

Outside their freezer prison Dan continued to stare blankly into space. “Dan. Maybe we should let them out of there.” Matt pleaded. Walking over to the door so he could unlock it.

“You stay away Matt. Just get away from it!! Dan shouted ‘I mean it. Don’t go anywhere near it!”

“Dan it could really hurt them. You know that.” Matt cried. “You know what can happen. Do you really want to hurt Marc and Steve?”

“Don’t you go near the door!” Dan held the gun up. You go near it and I’ll.” Dan pulled the hammer back and aimed it at Matt.

Matt sat down on the chair looking at his brother who Matt didn’t even know anymore.

“Don’t look at me like that. I’m doing it to help them.” Dan screamed “Can’t you under stand that? I’m trying to help them!”

“Come on Marc do you think you can crawl over to the door?” Steve wondered. “Look, I can’t move either, but we are going to have to try. Can you do that for me?”

Marc nodded. “Hey wait a minute. Matt is out there maybe he can let us out. I’ll call to him.”

Matt hey Matt let us out of here.” Marc called

I can’t, Dan won’t let me near the door.” Matt called back.

Marc turned to Steve. “He can’t Dan wont let him.”

“Ok then Marc its up to you.” The two of them were getting so cold they could barely speak.

Marc nodded and pulled himself across the floor to the door.

“Ok Marc now.” Steve called. “We have to get out of here.”

“I sent Russ to find them” Oscar stated I know I don’t work there anymore but my kids are the ones involved “

“No one gave you the authority to do that…”

Oscar reached and picked up the phone. “Russ any luck?”

“We hit pay dirt. We found Steve’s car in the parking lot of a school “ Russ gave them the address.

“We’ll be right there.” Oscar hung up the phone “they are at a school.” He informed them “Lets go.”

They all piled into Oscars car and were at the school in no time.

Marc put his hand on the door and pushed as hard as he could. The door burst open. Dan turned to see what was going on. He fired two shots in Steve and Marc’s direction.

Hearing the shots Oscar, Rudy, Gregory and Jaime ran in the direction they had come from

Marc crawled out of the freezer followed by Steve. It didn’t take to long and Steve was warm enough to wrestle the gun from Danny

Steve stood holding the gun as everyone stormed into the kitchen. Gregory seeing Steve with the gun stepped over to him.

“Col. Austin? “You’re under arrest…”

“You can’t do that!” Matt screamed at Gregory. “Steve didn’t take us Danny did!”

“Then why does he have the gun?” Gregory sneered.

“He Just took it away from Dan.” Marc spat. “Danny tried to shoot Steve and I when we came out of there.” He pointed to the freezer.

“Dan put you in there?” Rudy sounded angry and concerned at the same time. “Are you ok?”

“We’re warming up. Aren’t we Marc?” Steve stated

“Yea I feel better already.” Marc agreed still rubbing his arm.

Rudy was furious. He turned to Dan. “What made you do that?” He screamed. “You, of all people should know what that could do!!”

This time Dan didn’t answer He just sat in a chair staring blankly into space.

Gregory walked up to him. “I’m afraid you are under arrest son.” Gregory spoke

Danny continued to stare, his eyes glazed over.

“Don’t you have anything to say?” Rudy asked stepping over to him.

“Yea Rudy. What are all of these people doing in my bedroom?” His eyes lost the glazed look and seemed more focused

“Dan you aren’t in your bedroom.” Rudy explained. He watched Dan closely. “You really think you are home?”

Dan looked around. “I guess not.” He replied.

“If you think for one second I’m going to buy this ‘where am I’ routine you are out of your mind.” Gregory snorted.

“I don’t think it’s a routine.” Steve said. “You know Rudy the whole time Dan never did really look at us. He just sort of stared into space.”

“I wonder.” Rudy started.

“Wonder what?” Oscar moved closer

I wonder if Dan could have been sleepwalking?”

“Sleepwalking?” Oscar repeated.

Rudy nodded. “It makes sense.” Rudy said. “Dan was very upset at the prospect of Marc going to Asia. He went to bed and his subconscious took over.”

“I don’t buy it for a second.” Gregory snorted. “But right now Marc has a plane to catch to Thailand ”

“You still aren’t thinking of?” Steve tried to stop him.

“That is exactly what I am doing Austin.” Gregory grabbed Marc.

“NO! No!” Marc cried, “I don’t want to go to Thailand!!” He clung to Steve.

“You’ll go where I tell you!” Gregory seethed grabbing the boy and dragging him off.

“Let me go with him Gregory.” Steve suggested calling after them.

“I have other plans for you.” Gregory hissed. “See me in my office in 45 minutes.”

“Come on Gregory. I beg you to reconsider.” Steve pleaded as he caught up with Gregory and tried to block his path.

Gregory pushed past him. “I’ve had enough talk.” Gregory held Marc. “Come on you have a flight to catch I’ll brief you on the way to the airport.”

Marc turned to Steve and his father. “What does ‘beef’ mean?”

“It means has going to tell you what the assignment involves.” Oscar called after them. He turned to Steve. “What am I going to do?”

“I don’t know Oscar. This is new to me.” He turned to Dan “You ok now Dan?”

“I think so. What is going on anyway?” Dan wondered.

“I’ll explain everything when we get home.” Oscar said.

Steve was furious “I can’t believe he’s still doing this.” Steve fumed

“Don’t worry Steve. His days are numbered.” Danny projected. “I don’t know why I didn’t come up with this before.”

“What are you up to Dan?” Oscar gave him a suspicious look. “Steve you better get going so you can meet with Gregory.” Oscar sighed.

“Yea, I guess you’re right.” Steve left the school and got in his car. He headed in the direction of the OSI to get his assignment from his new boss

Dan turned to Oscar “Something I should have done a long time ago.” Dan smiled.

“And what would that be.”

...Continued