"A Year Together"


by
Goldman74



Logline: The kids first anniversary living with their 'dad' proves to be very hectic for Steve

  “I feel terrible too.” Steve admitted. “Maybe you better give Rudy a call.”

Jaime jumped out of bed and raced down the hall to the phone. She quickly dialed Rudy’s number.

“Rudy. He’s burning up.” Jaime cried into the phone.

“I’ll be right there.” Rudy spoke into the phone. “Try giving him a couple of aspirin. I’ll see if that reduces the fever before I get there.”

“Ok Rudy just hurry.” Jaime pleaded.

“I’m on my way.” After leaving a note for Oscar in case he woke up Rudy jumped into his car and sped to Steve and Jaime’s house.

Jaime was waiting for him on the porch. “Rudy the aspirin hasn’t helped!” She called from the steps.

Rudy bounded up the steps. ‘Where is he?”

“Well he’s in the living room.” Jaime showed him in. “Steve honey Rudy is here.”

“Hey Steve. What’s the trouble?”

“I don’t know. It started out earlier I had a sore throat, I thought I was coming down with a cold, but now this.”

Rudy started out taking Steve’s temperature. “103.5” Rudy announced. “You sure do have a fever.” He turned to Jaime. “How long ago did you give in the aspirin?”

“Right after I talked to you.” She told him.

“It should have helped by now.” Rudy muttered to himself. “You say your throat hurts?”

“It sure does. I mean I’ve had sore throats before, but nothing like this. I mean not since I was a kid.” Steve explained.

Rudy looked in Steve’s throat. “Well I see the trouble. You have yourself a hum dinger of a case of tonsillitis.” Rudy stated.

“Tonsillitis?” Steve questioned. “You have got to be kidding? I haven’t had that since I was a kid.”

Rudy shook his head. “No I’m not kidding. I’ll start you on medicine right away.”

“Will that take care of it?” Jaime asked.

“It should.” Rudy handed her the prescription. “Have it filled first thing in the morning. In the mean time I can give you something so you can get some rest.”

“I’d appreciate that Rudy.” Steve whispered. “It hurts so bad I can hardly talk.”

“There.” Rudy announced after giving Steve and injection. “Now about the prescription.’ He turned to Jaime. “Don’t be surprised if it makes him very sleepy.”

“Sounds like that’s just what he needs.” Jaime commented. Steve was already drifting off on the couch.

“Just let him stay there.” Rudy advised. “Besides making him groggy, the medicine could cause dizziness.”

“I’ll keep an eye on him. And I’ll have this filled as soon as the drug store opens.” Jaime promised.

“Sounds good. I’ll check back after work later on today.” Rudy rose to leave.

“Thanks for coming out so late Rudy.” Jaime apologized as she walked him to the door.

“Now problem, any time.” Rudy walked out the door and headed home.

Jaime sat in the living room watching Steve “Hey.” He said as he woke up. “I think I feel a little better.”

“That’s good. Think you’ll be alright while I go get this prescription filled?”

“I’ll be fine.” Steve told her.

“Are you hungry? I could fix you something before I go.”

“Just some hot tea.” Steve said. “If it’s not to much trouble

“Coming right up.” Jaime fixed it for him then headed for the drug store.

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“Morning Rudy.” Oscar said after Rudy answered the door to his apartment. “Jaime called she said she would be a little late. She said Steve is sick?”

“Yea he is. He’ll be fine though. Is she coming to tutor the boys?”

“She said she would be late. I’ll stay till she gets here. Let them know at the office. Ok?”

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“Here you go Steve.” Jaime handed him the bottle of pills. “Rudy says just take them as directed.”

“Sounds good. I am feeling better though. I don’t know what he gave me last night, but it sure helped.”

“Well that’s good. I’ll call later to see how you are doing. Rudy says to just stay on the couch. He really doesn’t want you to go up and down the stairs, the medicine could make you dizzy.”

“I plan to. I’ll see you later.”

Jaime gave him a light kiss. “Yea honey I’ll see you later. You get some rest.”

“I will.” Steve set the bottle of pills on the table next to him. “You better get going.”

“I’m on my way.” She turned and left the house. Steve watched as the car rolled down the drive and onto the street.

“Well let see here.” He picked up the bottle again. ‘One and a half tablets every four hours. One and a half?” Steve shrugged. “I guess Rudy knows what he’s doing.”

Steve carried the bottle to the kitchen and took out two tablets. He swallowed one, the other he cut in two and took half. Then he went into the living room and laid down on the couch. “I suppose I’ll take the next one around noon.” He thought as he drifted to sleep.

The next thing he knew it was noon. “Rudy was right. They do make you tired. I was thinking about running out to Oscar’s later, but not if I feel this way.” He took his second dose of medicine.

He dozed off and on all day. More on than off before he knew it, it was 4:00 in the afternoon. “Jaime should be home in just a while.” Steve spoke to himself. “Rudy wasn’t kidding when he said these would make me sleepy” He said as he took dose number three.

At six Jaime arrived home. The house was very quiet. “I thought Steve would be feeling better by now.” She thought. She went in to the living room Steve lay sleeping on the couch.

She walked over to him “Steve honey, do you feel like anything for dinner?”

Steve didn’t respond.

“Steve!” Jaime shouted as she tried to wake him up. “Steve wake up!”

He remained sleeping. “What could be wrong?” She wondered as she kept trying to wake him up.

After the fourth time she gave up and called Rudy “Just how groggy were those pills supposed to make him feel?” She demanded

“Why? What’s the problem?” Rudy asked concern rising in his voice.

“Because he won’t wake up! That’s why!” Jaime screamed into the phone.

Rudy thought for a moment. “Has he taken the medicine?”

“Just a second.” Jaime grabbed the bottle off of the coffee table. “It looks that way Rudy. One and a half tablets…”

“Repeat that!” Rudy cried.

“That’s what the bottle says. One and a half tablets every four hours.”

“I’m on my way right now. Jaime, keep trying to wake him up. He was to have a half a tablet every four hours.”

“Are you serious?” Jaime screamed

“Of course I am. Look I’m hanging up I’m on my way.” Rudy raced over to Steve and Jaime’s house. Once again Jaime greeted him on the steps.

“I still can’t get him to wake up.” She cried as they walked into the house

Rudy carefully examined Steve. “He seems ok. It’s just that he won’t wake up.” He announced to Jaime and now Oscar who had joined them.

“Is he going to be alright?” Oscar asked.

“I won’t know until I get him to the lab. I have several tests I need to run.”

“Do you think we can get him there ourselves.” Jaime wondered.

Rudy nodded “I think between the three of us we can get him to the car.”

“Well then let’s do it.” Oscar demanded.

They got Steve into the car and sped off the OSI Rudy rushed him into the lab and began the treatment for his over dose.

In the hall outside Oscar was furious. “I want to know how this happened!”

“I’m sure it was an accident.” Jaime assured.

“I’m not so sure about that Jaime. What pharmacy did you use?

“Dilbert’s on ninth.” Jaime squeaked. “Oscar, do you really think it was done on purpose?”

“I don’t know Jaime. But this would be the perfect opportunity for some who would want to…”

“Hurt Steve?” Jaime came back

“Exactly.” Oscar responded. “I’ll get my investigators on it right away. I’ll be right back.” Oscar headed down the hall toward his own office.

“I want answers and I want them now!” Oscar screamed at Russ. “I want to know who filled that prescription. I want his background! I want to know everything about him!!”

“I’ll get right on it Oscar. We’ll get to the bottom of it.” Russ assured.

“See that you do!” Oscar barked. He left his office and headed back down to Rudy’s. Jaime was still waiting for Rudy to emerge and give his report on Steve’s condition.

They looked at the door when Rudy stepped out.

“Well?” Oscar wondered

‘He’s going to be fine. He’s coming out of it now.”

“That’s a relief” Oscar and Jaime said together.

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Three days later Rudy gave Steve a clean bill “You’re fine get out of here.” Rudy teased.

Steve headed down to Oscar’s office. “Steve glad to see you up and around.”

“Yea well it’s good to be. Listen how is case progressing? Any leads?”

“Russ is still trying to get a handle on who was actually responsible for filling out the prescription. No one is admitting to it. They are all afraid of lawsuits.”

“Yea well if you don’t mind I would like…”

Russ burst through the door. “We finally got a lead.” He cried.

“What is it?” Oscar demanded.

“We just found out one of the pharmacists who was working that day left the day after Steve’s prescription was filled.”

“Really?” Oscar raised his eyebrows. “What was his name?”

“Well he gave his name as Tom Smith, but we discovered that is not his name.” Russ when on.”

“So, what is his name?” Steve and Oscar asked together.

“He was actually hired by Dolenz…”

“Dolenz?” Steve and Oscar questioned.

“I thought he was back in prison.” Oscar muttered.

“He is.” Russ assured “The man is actually his son Keith. He couldn’t get into medical school after his father was imprisoned so he became a pharmacist.”

“But how would he know?” Oscar demanded.

“That is what we are working on. Anyway he’s the one who changed the label on Steve’s prescription.”

“Where is he now?” Steve wondered.

“We don’t know, we are trying to find him.” Russ explained.

“No doubt he’s on his way out of the country.” Steve muttered.

“No doubt.” Russ agreed. “If he’s not gone already.”

“You let me know.” Steve was furious. “I want to go after him personally.”

“I’ll keep you informed Steve.” Russ promised.

“I’ll be waiting for your report.” Steve said, he then turned to Oscar. “I mean it. Once Russ finds Dolenz’ son, I want the case.”

“It’s yours Steve. Don’t worry. Do you want to work with Russ now?”

“As a matter of fact yes.” Steve headed for the door. Oscar alerted the guard to stop Russ so Steve could catch up to him

“Thanks for waiting Russ. I suppose I should have said something before.” Steve smiled as he slid into Russ’ car.

“Think nothing of it. As a matter of fact I think we are on to something.”

“Well that’s good. Let’s get on it.”

Russ pulled out of the parking lot and headed out of town.

“We heard that Keith hired a small plane to take him into Canada, and then to Saudi Arabia…”

“And out of our jurisdiction.” Steve muttered.

“Exactly. That’s where we are headed now. There is an airstrip in Bethesda. That’s where they plan to make their escape.”

“Step on it Russ.” Steve ordered.

Russ hit the gas and the two of them sped toward Bethesda. They arrived just as the small plane was about to take off.

Steve raced for it and grabbed the handle of the door. The pilot, not knowing what to do brought the plane to a halt.

“Don’t stop!” Dolenz ordered.

“I have to. I can’t…”

Keith grabbed the control stick and started pulling back on it. As he did so the plane began lifting.

The pilot tried to gain control of the plane he wrestled the control stick out of Dolenz’ hand. The plane began to come back down.

“Steve!” Russ cried. It’s not worth it let go!”

Steve continued to hold tight to the door handle. He opened the door and was just about to climb in when once again Dolenz grabbed the controls. Again the plane started up ward.

“Steve!” Russ cried as the door to the plane began to strike Steve in the back. “Jump while you still can”

Russ continued to watch the horrific scene that was playing out in front of him. The door to the plane kept flopping back and forth. Russ feared that it was going to hit Steve in the head…

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Rudy entered Oscar’s office “Any word from Steve?” He asked.

“Not yet Rudy, I spoke to Russ a short time ago, they were on their way to an airfield in Bethesda to try and stop Dolenz.”

“An air strip?” Rudy offered him a quizzical look.

“Apparently Dolenz is trying to get out of the country.”

“Where is he trying to go? Rudy asked.

“Where else Saudi Arabia, the only country who won’t send criminals back to us anyway.” Oscar said.

“I’m sure Steve will stop them. By the way have you told Steve he needs to talk to Marc about?”…

“I haven’t had a chance yet Rudy. I was going to tell him the other day, and then he got sick, and now this. As soon as he gets back I’ll tell him.”

“Good someone needs to tell Marc he just can’t do that.” Rudy stated.

“I know that Rudy, but Marc thinks he’s helping. I don’t want to hurt his feelings, that’s why I thought it would be best for Steve to talk to him.”

Oscar continued to watch his phone “I just wish one of them would call.”

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Steve climbed into the cockpit and slammed Dolenz in the mouth knocking him out.

“Put this thing down!” Steve shouted to the pilot.”

“Yes sir! Col Austin.” The pilot said when he recognized him.

The pilot brought the plane safely to the ground. Russ ran forward “You ok Steve?”

“Yea Russ I’m fine.” Steve smiled.

“For a minute there I thought you were a goner.” Russ sighed.

“So did I Russ.” Steve continued to smile. He threw Dolenz at him. “Let’s get him to Oscar “

Dolenz was just starting to come around when Russ threw him into the back of his car.

“I’ll sit back here with him Russ. Why don’t you give Oscar a call and let him know we are on our way.” Steve climbed into the back seat. He held Keith in the seat using just a little more strength than was necessary. But none the less held him.

“Good idea.” Russ picked up his car phone.’

“That’s great Russ.” Oscar turned to Rudy. “They are on their way back.”

“That’s great. I’ll be down in my office if Steve needs me for anything.”

“I’ll tell him.” Oscar picked up the phone and arranged for security to meet Steve and Russ just inside the building.

They arrived at the OSI and three of Oscar’s men were waiting. “We’ll take him from here Col.” They assured.

“Thanks guys.” Steve handed him over to them. He headed up to Oscar’s office.

“Steve. Glad your back. Marc has been very worried about you. I also wish you would talk to him about staying put when you are on assignments.”

“I planned to have a little chat with him. I’m just not sure how to go about it. I wouldn’t hurt the kid for the world. You know that.”

“Yea Steve I know, but Marc has to understand that he just can’t up a follow you across the country in the middle of the night.” Oscar went on.

“I know that. Especially on this one Marc could have been seriously hurt.” Steve told him.

“I know that. Just explain to him that as much as you appreciate his help he is just way to young.”

“I’ll do that. I need to see Rudy first is he in his office?”

“Yea. Anything wrong?” Concern rose in Oscar’s voice.

“No nothing is wrong, I just need some advise.” Steve left Oscar’s office and headed for Rudy.

“Hi Steve. Russ told me what happened. Are you alright?”

“Yea I’m fine. I just wanted your advise on something.” “What would that be?”

“I need to talk to Marc about following me on missions any advise as to how I can go about it with out hurting the kids feelings?”

“You’re a pretty tactful person. I’m sure you’ll come up with something. But I know what you’re saying. You don’t wan to push Marc over the edge again.”

“That’s right. “I don’t want him to get upset.”

“You know Steve. I think anything you say to him will be just fine.”

“I suppose you’re right. By the way.” Steve looked around, “Where is you young assistant?”

“He’s in school. He’ll be here later.”

“You two work out your differences?” Steve wondered.

“Yea. For the moment anyway.” Rudy smiled. “

“What did you mean by that?”

“By what?”

“When you said ‘for the moment anyway’ what did you mean by that?”

“Oh nothing really.” Rudy shook his head. “I suppose Dan and I will always have our differences.”

“I suppose you right. Well I suppose I better head out to Oscar’s house.

“Yea you better. I’ll see you later Steve” Rudy gave him a slap on the back.

“Hi Oscar.” Rudy called out.

Steve turned in the direction Rudy was looking.

“You still here Steve?” Oscar wondered. “Is every thing ok are you all right?” Oscar sounded concerned.

“Yea I’m fine. I’m ready for that talk with Marc. Is he at home?”

“Sure in fact he’s waiting for you.” Oscar told him.

“Ok then I’ll go on out to your place and talk to him.” Steve started for the door.

“Steve!” Oscar called.

Steve turned back toward him. “Yea?”

“Why don’t you and Jaime plan on dinner at my place?” Oscar invited.

“That sounds great. It’s my night to cook.” Steve laughed.

“Then you can cook at my place.” Oscar joined him laughing.

“Can I pick up anything?” Steve asked.

“How about desert? You know the twins. We can’t have company unless we have desert.”

“I’ll grab something.” Steve left the building

Steve stopped at the bakery on the way home and picked out a cake to take to Oscar’s house. The he headed toward Oscar’s house.

Steve pulled into Oscar’s driveway. “Hi guys.” Steve called to the twins and their friend Teddy

“Hi Steve!” Marc ran up to him. “I’m glad you’re feeling better. Dad said you wanted to talk to me.”

“I sure did partner. Let’s go over this way.” The two of them walked off together.

Matt and Teddy stood in the driveway. “Your friend has a cool car!” Teddy said.

“It is kind of neat isn’t it?” Matt agreed

“Hey let’s pretend to drive it “ Teddy suggested

“No we better not. Dad says cars aren’t toys.” Matt didn’t want to play along.

“Oh come on. Chicken!” Teddy pretended to make clucking sounds.

“Ok, ok.” Matt said. “But just pretend.” The two of them slid onto the front seat of Steve’s car. Matt sat in the drivers seat and Teddy sat next to him.

“Hey!” Teddy called out “Let’s really drive it.”

“I can’t” Matt said. “My feet won’t reach the pedal “

Teddy thought for a moment “I have an idea. You steer and I’ll push the pedal.”

“No Teddy, we better not.” Matt warned.

“Oh come on you’re not chicken are you?” Teddy coaxed

“Of course I’m not.” Matt spat “Ok let’s do it.” He turned the key in the ignition and put the car in gear. He looked down on the floor at Teddy who was ready to press the foot feet “Ok Teddy let’s go.”

Teddy pressed hard on the gas pedal and the car sped off the driveway Matt could hardly steer He was going way to fast. The car headed straight for where Marc and Steve stood talking. “Teddy! Stop hit the break!” Matt screamed.

It was to late. Before either boy knew what was happening the car slammed into Steve sending him hurling hundreds of feet in the air. Steve landed flat on his back on the ground…

Teddy managed to put the break on and the car came to a stop. Marc stood in stunned silence. Then ran up to Steve. “Steve! Steve!” he called Steve lay unmoving on the ground.

Matt and Teddy jumped out of the car. Seeing what he had done Teddy turned to the twins. “I think I better go home.” Teddy ran all the way across the street leaving Matt and Marc alone with Steve.

Marc got down on the ground beside him “Steve!” He again cried out. Steve didn’t respond.

“Matt! Go get Jaime.” Marc ordered.

Mat leaped up and ran into the house. He appeared less then two minutes later with Jaime.

“Oh my…” Jaime cried. “What happened?” She turned to the boys.

“It was an accident.” Matt kept repeating. “It was an accident.”

“What was an accident?” Jaime screamed at him. “Marc what happened?”

Marc was hysterical “I don’t know. One minute we were standing talking, the next Steve’s car ran into him.” Marc finally managed to say.

Jaime turned to Matt. “Well.” She asked.

“It was an accident.” Matt again cried and ran into the house.

“I’ve got to call Rudy. Marc, you stay here with Steve. I’ll be right back. If he wakes up don’t let him move. Ok?”

Marc nodded. “Ok Jaime.”

Jaime ran into the house and dialed Rudy’s number. She was told he was on his way home. She went back out to where Steve still lay on the ground. Marc was bent over him “Steve, please wake up. Please wake up.” Marc cried.

Jaime walked over to him “It’s going to be ok, Rudy is on his way.” You stay here and I’ll meet them at the gate.”

Again Marc nodded.

Jaime didn’t need to go to the gate Rudy was pulling up the drive, as she was getting ready to go to the gate.

“What happened?” Rudy yelled as he bent over Steve.

“I don’t know.” Jaime started “All I know is that Matt ran in the house yelling that Steve was hurt. I ran out here and found him like this.”

Rudy turned to Marc. “Do you know what happened?”

All Marc could do was shake his head He had stopped calling Steve’s name.

“Let’s get him to the lab.” Between Jamie and Rudy they were able to get Steve into the back of Rudy’s car.

“I’m coming with you.” Jaime called.

“Then you’ll have to drive, you can’t leave the kids alone. I’ll meet you there.” Rudy sped off with Steve still unconscious in the back of his car.”

After rounding up the kids. Jaime headed for the OSI as well. When she arrived Oscar was waiting outside of Rudy’s office. “Rudy wants us to wait here.” Oscar informed her.

“Is he awake yet?” Jaime asked.

“He wasn’t when Rudy brought him in.” He looked at the boys. “What happened?” He thundered

Marc shrugged.

“It was an accident.” Matt explained.

“What was an accident?” Jaime demanded. “You keep repeating that.”

Matt shook his head and could only repeat ‘it was an accident’ over and over again.

“What is going on here?” Oscar roared.

“I don’t know. Like I told you.” Jaime began “I was in the house minding my own business when Matt came charging into the house telling me Steve was hurt. I ran out side and found him just the way he was when Rudy got there…”

“The boys didn’t tell you what happened?” Oscar tried to speak calmer.

“Marc did say something about he and Steve were standing and talking, the next then he knew Steve’s car came out of nowhere and hit him.”

Oscar ushered the kids down to his office. “You stay here and don’t move!” He ordered.

“Callahan, would you watch them for me?” Oscar asked, as he got ready to go back down to Rudy’s office.

“Of course Mr. Goldman. Is Dan still in school?” She asked before Oscar left.

Oscar nodded. “He’s due any time I’ll send him down here too.”

“That’s fine.” She turned to the kids.

Oscar left and went to wait with Jaime for Rudy’s report on Steve.

“I just don’t understand what happened.” Jaime cried. “I didn’t even know Steve was at the house.”

“He came out to talk to Marc.” Oscar informed her. “He’s been a little concerned about Marc…”

They both turned to Rudy’s door. Rudy stepped out.

“How is he Rudy?” Oscar asked.

“It’s not very good.” Rudy told them. “Steve landed flat on his back. I don’t know if there was any damage to the spinal cord or not.”

“Rudy is he going to be alright?” Jaime asked tears in her eyes.

“I don’t know Jaime.” Rudy shook his head. “I just don’t know. I just wish he would wake up….”

You mean he’s still unconscious?’ Oscar was shocked.

Rudy nodded. “Yes he is. And I don’t like it. Where are he twins? I need to talk to them. I need to know just what happened.”

They are down in my office. You can just talk to them down there.”

“Linda is with Steve. I told her to let me know if there are any changes. Tell her where I am.”

“We will.” Oscar promised.

Rudy stepped into Oscar’s office He was shocked by what he saw. Marc stared blankly into space while Matt sat on the couch rocking back and forth crying “it was an accident”

“Callahan, how long have they been like this?” Rudy asked

“Ever since Mr. Goldman dropped them off.” She replied.

“I wish some one would have told me. They are in shock. Can you help me get them down to the lab?”

“Of course. Dr. Wells.” Callahan responded

Rudy led Marc and Callahan led Matt.

“Rudy what’s going on?” Oscar wanted to know.

“They are in shock Oscar I need to keep them here with me I…”

The door opened “Dr. Wells.”

“Yes Linda?” Rudy turned to her.

“He’s waking up sir.”

“Listen watch them I need to start treating them for shock. You know what to do right?”

“Of course I do Doctor.” Lynda stated.

Rudy stepped into the room “Steve. Can you here me?” Rudy asked as he stepped close to him.

Steve slowly turned his head toward Rudy. “What happened?” He asked.

“I was hoping you could tell us.” Rudy stated

“The last thing I remember. Marc and I were talking. The next thing I knew…”

“Yea I understand. We are still trying to figure it out ourselves.”

“Marc can’t tell you?” Steve wondered.

“Marc and Matt are both in shock.” Rudy reluctantly informed him.

“In shock?” Steve questioned.

Rudy nodded. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m not sure.” Steve started moving around. “Everything seems to be ok. I’m just very tired.”

“I would rather that you not sleep. You had a concussion it wouldn’t be a good idea for you to go to sleep.”

“I’ll try is Jaime here?” Steve asked.

“Yea She’s right outside. Want me to send her in?”

“Yea if you don’t mind look I feel fine. Go take care of the kids.”

Rudy stepped out of his office. “Jaime he wants to see you.” He told her.

“He’s going to be alright?” Oscar asked.

“I guess so. Physically he’s fine. I am concerned about the back injury, but he seems fine. I want to watch it for several days.

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Two weeks later Steve and Marc sat talking in the living room of Steve and Jaime’s house. “I’m glad you’re better.” Marc stated.

“Yea me too” how are you and Matt doing?” Steve wondered.

“We’re ok. Marc assured. “Hey Steve.” Marc called out. “What are you going to name the baby? Are you going to call him Steve?”

“I wanted to, but the poor kids is going to have to go through life with my face.” Steve pointed to his head. “I thought I’d give him a break and give him his own name.”

Marc smiled “How bout Marc?”

“I don’t know. We’ve been talking about it. If it weren’t for Dan we wouldn’t be having a baby. We were thinking of naming him after Dan. Dan’s middle name is James. We both kind of like the name James. We were considering reversing Dan’s first and middle name. That would make it James Daniel. But that’s top secret ok?”

“Got ya partner.” Marc continued to smile. Then ran off to play with his brothers. Steve watched out the window as Marc joined Matt and Joey in the back yard they were trying to play a game of tag between the three of them. He turned to Jaime who was standing next to him. “I still marvel at Marc I mean it is absolutely amazing.”

“I know.” Jaime replied. “It is amazing isn’t it?”

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Oscar walked into the ‘YOUR TRAVEL IS OUR BUSINESS TRAVEL AGENCY’ “I need to book a trip to Disney world. He told the travel agent. “We have quite a few people going I believe I spoke to you on the phone about it.”

“Yes I remember the conversation. It was going to be you and your four sons. Correct?

“That’s right. But since I spoke to you, I’ve decided to invite a few friends to come along for the ride.”

“We can get everything set up right now.” The agent said.

After making and confirming all of the arrangements the travel agent handed a folder to Oscar. Then she handed him the items he would need. “Here are your eight plane tickets. You can talk to them at the airport about seating everyone together. You are booked at the Orlando hotel with two rooms next to one another the other is right across the hall. And last but not least, your eight tickets to the park. I hope you have a wonderful trip. You are scheduled to depart on Wednesday November 24 and arrive back here on the 28th”

“Thank you.” Oscar handed her a check then picked up the folder and left the travel agency.

As soon as he left the travel agent picked up the phone. She quickly dialed the number she had had memorized for weeks now when Oscar Goldman had first phoned her travel agency. “Rustam please” she spoke. “Rustam, it’s Jenson Arlene, Jenson I have the information your going to want. I know exactly when Oscar Goldman and friends are going to be in Disney world.”

“I’m assuming by friends you are referring to Col Austin and Dr. Wells? Rustam wanted to know.

“That I am, and his children. I want paid for this information.” The travel agent spoke into the phone.

“You’ll get paid as soon as I Col. Austin and company out of the way.” Rustam replied. When will he be there Arlene?”

“He’s going over Thanksgiving vacation.” Arlene told him.

“Ought to make for a very interesting Thanksgiving. I just hate seeing those little kiddies lose their dad and his friends on a holiday, but I suppose I can kill them as well.”

“If that’s the way the game is played.” Arlene came back. ”I expect that money in my Swiss bank account by Christmas.”

“Only if Austin and company, are killed. I have someone else for that job I will send him to you to book the same trip.”

After Rustam hung up he placed a phone call to his hit man, Yuriy Shurik. “Do you remember last summer you wondered if I wanted you to ‘take Care’ of Col Austin when he threatened me?.”

“I sure do boss.” Yuriy smiled to himself. “You ready for me to take care of it?

“I sure am. I want Austin dead at all costs.”

“He will be but how…”

“If you will shut up Shurik I will tell you exactly when and where you can catch Austin off guard.”

Yuriy grabbed a sheet of paper. “Shoot boss.”

Rustam told him about Oscar’s planned Thanksgiving trip to Disney World. “I want you to use his travel agent. Let her book the flights and everything, then dispose of her.”

“Yes Boss. “

Rustam gave him Arlene’s name and the agency she worked for. Yuriy said he would have that job done in less than twenty-four hours.

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Oscar arrived back at Steve and Jaime’s “Here.” He said handing them the envelope containing their airline tickets and Hotel information.

“What’s this Oscar?” Steve looked at him.

“It’s just my way of saying thanks for all you guys do for my kids. In the past year you have gotten us through many scrapes. I just wanted to, well reward you. So I’m swinging for the trip to Disney World.”

“Oscar.” Jaime started. “You don’t have to do that.”

“I know I don’t but I want to I’m usually not this generous so accept it before I change my mind.”

“Ok Oscar if you’re sure this is something you want to do.” Steve stated holding the envelope.

“It is. Those kids mean a lot to me….”

“To us to.” Steve interrupted.

“That’s why I want to do this. But not a word to the kids it’s a surprise Oscar whispered as he heard the three come charging down the stairs.

“So!” He exclaimed. You guys ready?”

“Yea!” the three cried.

“Then come on let’s head for home ok?”

They arrived back at the house the same time Rudy and Danny pulled in.

“So how was your day?” Oscar wondered as they gathered on the driveway.

“It was great Dad. I’m glad I’m helping Rudy again.”

“I am to Dan. Rudy when you get a minute I have something for you just come in at anytime.”

“Ok Oscar I want to change first.” Rudy headed into his own apartment. And Oscar headed into the house with the kids.

“Why don’t you kids go get ready for bed? I’ll make Dinner.” Oscar said as they walked in through the kitchen.

“Yea sure Dad.” They called as the headed upstairs to get ready for bed.

Oscar was standing in the kitchen when Rudy joined him

“You wanted to see me Oscar?” He asked.

“Yea Rudy. This is for you.” He handed him the envelope containing his tickets. “We’re all going to Disney world, my treat.”

“Oscar you didn’t have to pay my way.”

“Like I told Steve and Jaime you guys have really come through for us in the past year. It’s just my way of saying thanks.”

“Well I really appreciate it. And I’m sure Steve’s elated.”

“He’s already packing.” Oscar laughed.

“Sounds like Steve just a big kid at heart.” Rudy joined Oscar laughing.

“I think the kids will like it. I hope they don’t find out before I spring the big surprise on them.” Oscar said.

“I’m sure we can keep it under wraps.” Rudy assured.

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“Steve? What are you doing?” Jaime asked as she entered the bedroom and saw the suit case on the bed. “Are you leaving me?”

He walked over to her and put his arms around her. “It will be a cold day in well you know where before I would ever consider such.”

“What are you packing for then?” Jaime asked again.

“I guess I’m thinking If we are going to go to Disney World next month we better get some new luggage.”

“Well I guess we could do that.” Jaime agreed. “We’ll look for some tomorrow. You are excited about the trip, aren’t you?”

“Well Yea. I kind of like Disney World It is more fun to visit with kids. I wish ours was old enough to go.”

“He’ll be there, we don’t have to worry about that.” Jaime laughed.

“Yea I guess you’re right.” Steve joined her. “Well I’m going to go down to the living room to fix a drink. Do you want anything?”

“Yea. Fix me the usual I’ll put these away and I’ll be right down.” Jaime called.

Jaime heard no response from Steve. All she heard was the horrible sound of someone falling down the stair.

“Steve! Steve?” Jaime called when she saw Steve at the bottom of the steps. Jaime ran down the steps “Steve! Are you all right? She sat next to him.

Steve didn’t move. He remained unconscious.

Jaime jumped up and headed for the phone. She tried Rudy’s apartment. He wasn’t there. “I’ll try Oscar’s. Maybe he’s there.” Jaime said aloud. She walked back over to Steve he still hadn’t moved.

Again she dialed the phone. “Oscar. Its Jaime is Rudy there?”

“Yea, just a second.” Oscar handed the phone to Rudy “It’s Jaime.”

“Yea Jaime, what is it.” Rudy asked.

“Steve fell down the stairs….”

“Is he conscious?” Rudy wanted to know.

“No he isn’t…”

“I’ll be right there. If he regains before I get there don’t let him move. I’m on my way.”

By the time Rudy arrived Steve was sitting on the bottom step. “I know you told Jaime to not let me move, but I just couldn’t lie there.” Steve commented.

“Well I guess it will have to be all right.” Rudy muttered. “How do you feel other wise?”

“Ok I guess.” Steve told him.

“Any dizziness?” Rudy wondered.

Steve shook his head. “No not at all.”

Rudy quickly examined Steve. “Well thank goodness. No appearent concussion “

“Well that’s good.” Jaime muttered.

“I think it just more or less knocked the wind out of him. I do want you to take it easy for the next 48 hours though.” Rudy recommended.

“If that’s all I have to do.” He turned to Jaime. “I think I can handle that one.”

“I’ll see that you do.” She smiled at him.

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It was almost closing time when Yuriy Shurik walked into the ‘YOUR TRAVEL IS OUR BUSINESS TRAVEL AGENCY’. He stepped up to the receptionist “I would like to speak with Arlene please.”

The receptionist turned to the agents booking trips. “I believe she is free.” She buzzed Arlene’s desk. Arlene picked up the phone.

“Yes. Betty?”

“A gentleman here to see you.”

“Send him back.” Arlene stood to greet him.

“I’m Yuriy Shurik. My friend Rustam told me you could get me a really good deal on a trip to Disney World.”

Arlene thought for a moment then remembered. “Oh yes. I sure can.”

She booked the same flight for him as she had for Oscar Goldman and friends. They were even staying in the same hotel.

Yuriy gathered up his information and stepped out of the travel Agency. He got in his car and headed for home. It was getting late and he didn’t feel like doing anything during rush hour.

“I know what you look like Ms. Jenson. I will be back tomorrow.”

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“Well” Rudy stated as he stood. “You take it easy I want to see you first thing in the morning.”

“Rudy” Steve argued. “I’m fine.”

“And I want to keep it that way especially if you’re planning on going to Disney World in November.”

“You wouldn’t stop me from going?”

“Oh wouldn’t I?” Rudy laughed.

Steve turned to Jaime. “I think he’s serious.”

“If he isn’t I am.” She gave him a loving shove. “You do what your told this time.” “Ok, ok. I’m out numbered.” Steve laughed.

“Don’t you forget it. First thing tomorrow morning.” Rudy turned to leave.

“I’ll show you to the door.” Jaime offered.

“Call me if he has any dizziness, or you can’t wake him.” Rudy whispered as he stepped out onto the porch.”

“I will.” She promised.

After Rudy left Jaime headed back to where Steve still sat on the bottom step. “What did he say?” Steve wondered.

“Nothing much, just that if you feel dizzy, or I can’t wake you up I’m supposed to call him.”

“Well I feel fine. Why don’t we drive out to Oscar’s for a while? We’ll grab some dinner first. I don’t know about you, but I’m starved.”

“Rudy was right. I think you’re fine.” Jaime smiled.

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The next morning Steve met Rudy as he was coming in. “You said first thing. I have some things I want to do.”

“Sure Steve. Come on in. How are you feeling?”

“Just fine. No dizziness or any thing.” Steve informed him.

“Well that’s good.” Again Rudy examined him. “Well everything seems to be ok. By the way how does the old back feel?”

“Feels fine.” Steve reported. “I think I’ll stay away from speeding cars from now on.”

“Imagine those two kids thinking they could drive.” Rudy laughed.

“Yea I know. The twins seem ok though” Steve commented.

“Yea Marc and Matt were both afraid you would be upset with them “ Rudy explained.

“I think I got it cleared up that I’m not. It was just an accident. I don’t think Teddy has been to the house since.”

“Well you’re fine.” Rudy stated. “You can go.”

“Thanks Rudy. I’ll see you later.” Steve left Rudy’s off ice and headed for Oscar’s house.

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At noon Arlene left the YOUR TRAVEL IS OUR BUSINESS TRAVEL AGENCY to grab a bite to eat. Shurik followed her. ‘I thought I was going to have to wait all afternoon.’ He said to himself as he followed her up the street.

Arlene started down a secluded street to her favorite diner. Yuriy was right behind her in his car. Right before she entered the diner Yuriy Shurik pulled out his gun with the silencer attached and fired through the window hitting Arlene in the back of the head.

As the crowd gathered to woman who had just fallen Yuriy sped unnoticed.

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That night Oscar picked up the evening paper. He saw Arlene’s picture on the front page with an article describing the events that had taken place.

Danny caught the expression on Oscar’s face. “Something wrong dad.”

“I know this woman.” Oscar related. “She is the woman who booked our trip to Disney World next month. I can’t believe it. She was just gunned down. There is no apparent reason for it.”

“Things like that happen all the time especially in a city like DC “ Danny noted. “Just so happens you knew this one.”

“Yea I guess your right. She seemed like a very nice lady though.” Oscar dismissed the entire incident.

Danny turned to Oscar “Hey dad. What trip to Disney World?”

“That’s classified information Dan. It was supposed to be a surprise. Not a word to your brothers. Ok?”

“Yea sure. Tell me about it.” Dan asked

“I was planning on taking you for our anniversary, but after all that’s happened around here lately I thought we would put it off till Thanksgiving.”

“That sounds great. Are Steve, Jaime and Rudy coming?”

“It’s all arranged. Do you want to go to Disney World?

”Sounds like fun. I can’t wait.” Dan sounded excited.

“Remember though. Top secret.”

“You got it. Not a word to the little kids.” Dan promised.

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“Well guys.” Oscar asked after Joey had gone to bed. What do you want to do for dinner tomorrow night? I want to do something special it has been a year since you have moved in with me. “

“You don’t have to do anything dad.” Dan pointed out.

“I know I don’t have to. I want to. So where would you like to go?” Oscar asked again.

Again Dan answered. “Why don’t we just stay here and have something special for dinner.” He suggested.

“Can we have cake and ice cream?” The twins asked.

“We sure can. We’ll ask Steve and Jaime to join us.”

The next night they had all the kid’s favorite things for dinner. Steve and Jaime brought the cake.

After they had all gone to bed Oscar turned to his friends. “I can’t believe it’s been a year. I just hope the next year isn’t as event full as the first one was.”

“I’ll agree to that.” The three said together


THE END


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