Rising early Scott coaxed Jennifer into an early morning jog. As the couple took off down the beach, wearing running shorts, tank tops, and sneakers, Scott had difficulty holding his excitement at bay.

Scott stopped their three mile run just as the pink sun seemed to grow out of the watery horizon. Small clouds brushed over it without disturbing its beauty. He turned to meet her eyes and both slowly regained their breath. She smiled at him as she pulled her ponytail tighter then her eyebrow shot up in confusion as he suddenly sunk to one knee.

“Jennifer you are the light of my life. I have never met anyone so warm or beautiful or carefree. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?” He held out the pear shaped diamond ring with two small sapphires he had kept in the pocket of his shorts. He held his breath when her answer was slow in coming. He began to think she was going to say no when a single tear slid down her cheek. Overcome by his unexpected proposal the only thing she could do was nod her affirmation. He stood and lifted her in a tight embrace spinning her in a circle and telling her she just made him the happiest man on the earth.

After setting her down she looked deeply into his chocolate brown eyes and regained her voice. “Scott I love you more than anything and it would thrill me beyond words to marry you.” The happy couple shared a long passionate kiss, sealing the deal.

They returned to their room and found a magnum of champagne on ice along with bagels and fruit. Jen smirked holding up the chilled bottle, “So were you that confident I would say yes that you had this delivered?”

“Maybe. Or maybe I was planning on using it to drown my sorrows if you said no.” He pulled her tight against him unable to hold back his feelings any longer. Scott removed the hair band and her long locks fell upon her shoulders. His soulful kiss went deep, so deep she felt its warmth down to her toes. He began to slowly undress her when she stopped him. Confused by her halting gesture he looked at her stunned.

“Scott there’s something I think you should know first.” He smiled and began kissing her long neck. “I never…I mean…I haven’t…” He suddenly stopped his advances and looked her in the eye.

“Are you trying to tell me you’ve never…” Scott asked softly not able to get the words out either as she nodded. He smiled his most warm and charming smile, reassuring her he would take it slow. Taking her by the hand he escorted her to the shower never taking his eyes off her mischievous grin that was so endearing to him.

It was the most romantic morning Jen had ever experienced in her 24 years of life. After their intimate activities concluded they laid wrapped in each other’s arms under the soft cotton sheets, not needing to say a word. Soft music cascaded over them from the radio on the shelved headboard above as they nibbled on the breakfast food room service had delivered, neither wanting to move from the bed.

During the flight back Scott confessed, telling Jen of his conversation with Steve after her rescue. She was relieved that Scott at least asked her father’s permission even if he didn’t think it was necessary. She was somewhat relieved that it wouldn’t be as much as a surprise as she thought. Steve was there to pick them up at the airport, figuring Scott would use this trip to propose. The energetic young woman launched herself into her father’s strong arms at the gate. Steve had never seen his daughter look so blissfully happy.

Seeing the large diamond on her left hand Steve grinned at Scott, “I guess it’s safe to assume she said yes?” A smiling Scott nodded and Steve through his arm over his shoulder, “Welcome to the family, Mr. Yeager!”

A month later Steve’s June birthday rolled around and being so busy with work he was not aware of the planning and deceit that had been taking place right under his nose for weeks. Barbara told him she was taking him for a quiet romantic dinner at a posh hotel. Leaving the house he held the car door for her as she hinted that if he behaved himself there might be a room reserved for them for after dinner. He closed the door with an acutely raised brow accented with a crooked grin at the thought of dessert.

It was still daylight when they arrived and the matre de apologized that their usual table was not available but if they didn’t mind there was a table open on the partially secluded terrace. They nodded its satisfaction and were led to the glass door. Upon stepping onto the flagstone patio Steve was shocked at the many familiar faces shouting ‘surprise!’ He immediately blushed and looked accusingly at Barbara. “Happy Birthday Steve.”

The couple engaged in a kiss before others approached. Jennifer embraced him and Scott shook his hand. Twenty of Steve’s closest friends slowly made their way towards him to offer birthday wishes before they all sat down for dinner and drinks. After the meal many wandered around mingling, laughter occasionally wafting across the veranda.

Scott approached Steve with his apologies that he had to go to work explaining the new computer system required the staff work two 10-hour shifts to get the work done in a reasonable time frame. Steve shook his hand thanking him for coming.

Seeing Scott’s exit Oscar and Rudy cornered Steve alone for some serious talk.

Steve immediately saw the look in Oscar’s eyes and pleaded, “Oscar please don’t ruin my birthday party with shop talk, at least not until I’m less sober than I am right now.”

“Steve it’s important and it can’t wait.” The younger man sighed knowing his boss was going to do whatever he wanted. He looked to Rudy for help but didn’t get it. He held up his index finger as a signal for Oscar wait as he grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing hostess.

“He’s serious Steve.” Rudy assured him.

He downed the drink quickly, “Okay what so damn important?”

“We’ve been hearing some loose intelligence chatter that indicates someone may have put a three million dollar price tag on your head.”

Steve eyes shot up in surprise trying to read Oscar’s truthfulness. “Don’t they know I’m worth at least six?” He joked.

“Steve this is nothing to joke about. If it’s confirmed I want you in a safe house until things are taken care of.”

“So when will it be confirmed?” Steve asked loosening his tie and collar while watching his daughter mingle with the guests.

“I’m not sure; the information was very vague, hopefully within the next 2 days. If it’s true I’ll have a team escort you to Connecticut.”

Steve was undaunted, already used to being a target. “I hear Connecticut is nice this time of year.” He teased. Oscar just rolled his eyes and Steve asked, “Who, may I ask, is the money man?”

“We’re not sure. Like I said our Intel is very sketchy at this point. We have four or five possibilities…Victor Gustinov being one of them.”

“Isn’t Gustinov in prison?”

“Yes but he still has visiting and phone privileges. There’s something else too, we can’t rule out the possibility, no matter who put out the contract, of them going after Jennifer or Barbara just for spite.”

Steve gut twisted and after a deep sigh he stated to no one in particular, “Well it seems this party is winding down. I think I’ll go see my daughter before she leaves.” He looked at Oscar, “I’m sure you will be in touch.”

Jen was dressed in elegant black slacks with a powder blue silk blouse making her eyes look amazing. She was laughing with Barbara and some of Steve’s friends from the OSI. Steve politely interrupted, “I hope my daughter isn’t sharing any of my secrets.” The group chuckled, “Just sharing what it’s like to have you as a father.” The group continued to share stories and laughs with Jennifer about Steve’s years as an operative. Barbara excused herself to walk over to visit with Oscar and Rudy.

With everyone occupied no one noticed the sunlight reflect off the rifle sight as it fixed its cross hairs on the target.

The small cluster of friends immediately asked when Steve was going to marry Barbara. He explained they wanted to wait until Jennifer and Scott tied the knot in 3 months, not wanting to take away the limelight from his daughter.

Steve leaned into Jennifer’s shoulder, placing a hand under her elbow and asked with a serious tone, “Can I talk to you for a minute?

She quickly looked at his face seeing concern written all over it, “Sure. Excuse us please.” She said setting her drink down on the table next to her.

Jen leaned her back against the terrace rail as Steve faced her. “So are you enjoying your birthday party? Tell me the truth, were you surprised?” She inquired.

“Yeah, I was definitely surprised. How did you and Barbara keep this a secret anyway?”

“Oh no, I’m not sharing that information. I might need it in the future.” She chuckled seeing her father’s hurt expression.

“You mean they turned my own daughter against me?”

“Yep! Consider it payback for you not telling me Scott was going to propose.” She felt an air of tension around him and her expression changed with the tone of her voice, “So what did you want to talk to me about?”

He explained what Oscar had shared with him and Jennifer was shocked that it could be true. She naively thought Victor would be harmless behind bars. Steve tried his best to explain his position between the proverbial rock and hard place.

“Jen, nothing has been confirmed yet but if I’m sequestered in a safe house I want you with me so I know you’re safe, no matter who is behind it. On the other hand it’s not right that your life should be turned upside down because of my past actions. I could be stuck there for months before they find who is doing this let alone find him. The fact that Victor Gustinov may be behind it makes me concerned for your safety. He knows what you look like, where you work, where you live, everything.”

Her mind focused on the fact that Victor’s men had the audacity to blow up her father’s car in the OSI parking lot, a supposedly secure area. No, there would be no safe place.

Jen quietly considered her options, wanting to discuss it with her fiancé, “Can I think about it and call you tomorrow?”

Steve nodded. “So how are the wedding plans coming along?”

“Fine.” She chuckled at the never ending details, “Every time we make a decision there’s five more to be made. Sometimes I think it would be better to just elope.”

“Over my dead body!” He exclaimed. “I plan on walking my only daughter down the aisle on her wedding day.” Jen smiled lovingly and stepped forward taking her father in a long warm embrace, finding it hard to believe anyone would want him dead. When they separated Steve saw tears threatening to fall. He swiftly reached down at the table to his left to retrieve an unused napkin for her to dry her tears.

At the same instant, loud rifle shot suddenly echoed across the narrow street sending a deadly projectile at its target but hitting another. A few screams were heard as guests on the patio dove onto the ground. Oscar and Rudy immediately sought out Steve knowing he was probably the target. Their faces fell with their hearts at the sight of Steve kneeling over an unmoving Jennifer.

Rudy and Oscar ran to them as several OSI agents scattered in search of the gunman. Steve was carefully rolling Jen onto her back and was sickened by the amount of blood covering her blouse. Steve was on her right and Rudy on her left, both administering first aid.

“Jen?” Steve caressed her cheek trying to rouse her. Rudy unbuttoned the top of her blouse and slid his hand under the fabric, quickly applying pressure to the wound on her left chest. She stirred and coughed causing blood to trickle from the left edge of her mouth to her ear. Her breathing was labored and Rudy instructed Steve to elevate her head. He gently slid his left arm under her shoulders and cradled her limp upper body in his arms making her gasps for air less frantic. Rudy felt her thready pulse with his right hand on her wrist. The doctor looked at Steve whose eyes were welling with unshed tears as he gazed at his wounded daughter.

“Dad?” She whispered painfully with her eyelids fluttering open.

“I’m right here Jen. Everything’s going to be alright.” He choked out unconvincingly. The young woman’s pale lips conveyed ‘I love you’ but no sound came out as she lost consciousness.

The ambulance crew arrived quickly and Rudy directed the treatment which included supplemental oxygen, an I.V. and an EKG monitor. Steve remained at his daughter’s side for the ride to the medical center as Rudy frantically tried to stabilize her. Steve, leaning forward in the cramped space, had his elbows on his thighs quietly whispering a prayer into his clasped hands, his eyes never leaving her ashen face. The one time Rudy glanced up from his patient he saw one lone tear fall from his friend’s cheek.

Oscar stayed at the scene as his agents returned with few clues, the gunman on the run. They scoured the area twice without success. Oscar sent his men home and headed to the hospital.

Steve could not remove the feeling of dread that hovered over him as he walked the waiting room floor. This shouldn’t have happened, not to his daughter, not like this. He was startled by the silent comforting hand that came to rest on his slumped shoulder. His eyes looked at Barbara’s which conveyed her support. She tried to get Steve to sit down next to her but he was too wound up from the events. The pacing continued as his anger was slowly building at the thought of his innocent child’s suffering and the OSI’s seemingly inept activity. This slow brew continued for three hours before the tired surgeon ambled down the well-lit, tiled corridor to speak with his patient’s father, his long time friend.

“Well?” Steve asked with Barbara standing by his side.

“She’s still with us and fighting like hell.” He gave Steve a weak smile. “The bullet did some serious damage to her lung and she lost a lot of blood but she’s hanging on.”

“Can I sit with her?”

“Maybe in an hour or so, give my staff time to get her settled.” Steve nodded and looked up to see Oscar entering the building. As Rudy filled Oscar in on Jennifer’s condition Steve was stewing in the corner unable to look at Goldman. When the talking stopped Oscar stepped toward Steve to offer condolences. Barbara and Rudy were horrified as a red faced Steve struck with the speed of a rattlesnake shoving Oscar against the wall by his throat.

“This is all your fault. You should have investigated faster, got confirmation days ago and maybe this wouldn’t have happened.”

Rudy tried to calm him as Oscar’s face turned a deep red, “STEVE WHAT ARE YOU DOING? LET HIM GO! It’s not his fault it’s not anyone’s fault but the guy who pulled the trigger.” The threatening look in his eyes slowly disappeared and Steve gradually let go of Oscar who didn’t say a word as he rubbed his throat. Barbara had never seen Steve act this way. It scared her. His friends watched him begin pacing like a caged tiger unable to justify his misdirected anger. “I’m sorry Oscar. I didn’t mean that. It’s just…that should be me in there not her. She didn’t do anything to deserve this. She just happened to be standing next to me.” He sunk into a chair and covered his face in his hands. His three friends clearly heard the words Steve spoke in a very ominous tone, “If you don’t find the people responsible for this soon I will and I guarantee you there won’t be anything left of them or their hit man for you to put on trial.” He stood and quickly left the room unable to wait any longer to see his daughter. Barbara, not knowing how to deal with Steve in such an unfamiliar and violent state, grabbed her purse and left.

Rudy caught up with him outside the I.C.U. “Steve wait!” Steve stopped and looked at his friend. “There something I need to warn you about before you go in there.”

“What, that she’s hooked up to every conceivable monitor you have? That she’s on a ventilator? That she’s in a coma? What?”

“Not exactly. Well yes, all those things but there’s something else…seeing her might bring back some awful memories.”

“Rudy what are you talking about?”

“Steve she looks exactly like Jessica lying in there. Exactly like her mother did all those months. You need to be prepared.” Steve just nodded thinking Rudy was exaggerating and gently pushed past the well-meaning doctor.

Upon seeing his daughter he heart skipped a beat at the sight, grabbing the foot of the bed to steady himself. It was Jessica but it wasn’t. ‘My God this can’t happen again.’ Rudy was quickly at his side with a hand on his shoulder and whisper reassuringly, “It’s Jennifer and I can assure you she isn’t brain dead.” Steve turned and gave Rudy a small nod before sitting himself at her bedside, taking her delicate hand in his.

He ached down to his very soul as his eyes slowly passed over his child, seeing the crude tube in her throat essential to her survival, the loosely tied hospital gown partially exposing a large bandage on her left chest, the cluster of wires exiting the top of the gown and attached to the EKG monitor that beeped in double time, the I.V. fluids silently dripping into and traveling through the narrow plastic tube inserted into her arm. His eyes came to rest on her face, a face so much like her mother’s, looking peaceful despite the circumstances.

Scott Yeager was notified by phone and immediately left his work area unable to comprehend who would shoot Jennifer. His swift entrance into her quiet room took Steve by surprise.

“Oh my God,” was all the young man could whisper seeing his fiancé pale and comatose. He slowly walked to the opposite side of the bed from Steve. “What happened?”

Steve told him the events that had transpired after he left the party, his guilt and sadness evident in every word. “What do you mean they hit her instead of you? Who would want to kill you?”

Steve explained further, “It’s someone from my past; the OSI isn’t sure who yet. It may be the guy who kidnapped Jennifer and Rudy last month.”

Scott tenderly held Jennifer’s hand while brushing back the errant strands of moist dark hair that were fixed to her cheek from perspiration. He choked down the lump in his throat seeing the blood tinged bandage peeking out from her gown and the tube exiting her throat. Rudy, who was the one who called him, already explained her condition, her prognosis still unknown. Jennifer lay still and unresponsive flanked by two men who loved her more than life itself.

Oscar made a visit both to see Jennifer and to try and convince Steve it wasn’t safe for him here. Steve, with barely controlled anger, adamantly refused to be shuttled off to a safe house while his child fought for her life. He chastised Oscar for even suggesting the idea. Oscar just nodded, accepting the response he expected, and returned to his office intent on finding the gunman and the man paying him.

Rudy split his time between his office, the nurse’s desk and Jennifer’s room. He was still unsure of the outcome for his protégé. He pacified himself that she was young, strong and in good physical condition which all were in her favor. Only time would tell.

As the days dragged on Steve and Scott shared the bedside, both looking haggard and weary, neither wanting to leave. By the third day Jennifer was removed from the ventilator, the intrusive tube replace with an oxygen mask providing supplemental oxygen. Her color was slowly returning. Barbara made frequent visits but did not stay long. Steve never noticed her distancing herself from him. All his thoughts and energy were focused on his daughter.

Steve was so emotionally and physically drained from lack of sleep even the OSI agent Oscar assigned to him for protection was nothing but a faceless shadow. Steve didn’t even remember the man’s name, not that he cared. There was also an OSI agent assigned to guard Jennifer’s room. All of Rudy’s staff responsible for her care were to remain the same, no exceptions. All were required to show a picture I.D. upon entering the room.

Steve and Scott fell into a set schedule, one of them always at Jennifer’s side at all times. They both viewed it as an extra security measure. With Jennifer’s slow progress each began taking 1 hour off a day to go home, shower and change with Steve’s trips including his escort. On a recent trip home to shower and change he found an envelope on his dresser. His name was written on the front in Barbara’s handwriting. Without reading it he stashed it in his shirt pocket.

After six days Rudy discontinued the oxygen, Jennifer’s weakened lung doing enough of the work on its own. Scott was able to hold off returning to work for the initial few days after the shooting but things were getting out of hand in the OSI computer section. Scott’s presence was soon required to supervise what his team was doing with the new computer system and a large amount of sensitive data. His final attempt to avoid going to work was met with a stern warning from his supervisor that he was not irreplaceable. After talking to Steve he was confident Jen was being taken care of and planned on spending every minute with her that he could spare away from work. Steve and Rudy reminded him they would call his beeper should anything change.

Steve sat at his comatose daughter’s bedside staring at her youthful face desperately wanting to see her familiar smile again. He was immensely glad her condition was slowly improving. Jen had yet to show any sign of waking from the deep slumber caused by the excessive blood loss and Rudy was unable to estimate when she would awaken. Steve could wait; he was a patient man when the need called for it. ‘At least she’s out of immediate danger’ he thought.

All the hours at her side were spent silently reminiscing about their life together. Steve’s memories began with meeting Jessica and their beachside wedding. His mind relived the special moments in Jennifer’s life: her first steps, her first words, ‘No,’ followed by ‘Da Da.’ this thought brought a smile to his face. He recalled her first 2-wheeler and his smiled turned into a huge grin remembering that sweet innocent face of his five-year-old standing on the sidewalk outside the ice cream store asking him what ‘sex appeal’ was. Then the image of her first date came into his head followed by …Prom night…her first flying lesson…tennis lessons…college graduation…moving into her first apartment…21st birthday party…A chuckle escaped his lips recalling the night they sang together at the Karaoke Bar.

The sound of her father’s laugh echoed in the deep dark well she was floating in. Steve noticed the subtle movement and quickly called Rudy into the room. Steve leaned over Jennifer, his familiar voice calling to her. “Jennifer? Jen, can you open your eyes?” His face hopeful. The eyes below the lids moved slowly back and forth, a change in her breathing noticeable, “Please wake up Jen.”

Jennifer could hear her father’s voice but he sounded so far away. Her arms and legs felt like they were buried in quicksand. Her whole body felt sore and stiff. She finally floated close to the surface and struggled to open her eyelids.

“That’s it Jen. That’s my girl.” Steve cheered her on in a soothing voice.

The light hitting her eyes was painful causing them to quickly close in reflex. Steve continued to guide her, “Jennifer it’s time to wake up.” He stated a little more sternly.

Her mouth was dry and her throat sore. She gathered up all her strength to whisper, Steve’s grin grew as he saw her attempting to speak, “Scott? Scott?”

“Jen?”

“Scott? Where’s Scott?”

Steve’s face fell flat as he responded to her question, “He’ll be here soon Jen. I’ll call him.” Steve quickly straightened up with an intense need to get out of the room. He stepped into the hallway with a heavy heart while Rudy examined her.

Rudy flashed his penlight into each of her eyes, she flinched at the second. “Jen?” He called her. She tried to take a deep breath and winced. “Easy Jen, don’t try to take any deep breaths.” He warned her. She moaned before partially opening her eyes.

“Scott?” She asked in a hoarse voice.

“He’ll be here soon don’t worry.”

“What….happened?” She asked in two breaths.

Rudy took a deep breath before answering, “You were shot…at your father’s birthday party.” She let her eyes close, her mind struggling to understand what Rudy had said.

“Is my dad okay?” She croaked.

Rudy smiled, “Yeah Jen, he’s fine. He just left to call Scott.” Jennifer nodded slightly as she fell back to sleep. Rudy took the time to check the surgical site on her chest then her vital signs before leaving her to rest.

Entering the hall he came upon Steve standing with his back against the wall, staring at the floor, so deep in thought he didn’t know Rudy had approached him. “Steve?” Rudy took notice of his friend’s pale face under the several days of beard growth, “Steve?” The doctor thought he would be happy and relieved that Jen was out of her coma but he looked anything but happy. Steve still did not acknowledge him. “Steve!” he placed a firm hand on Steve’s shoulder snapping him back to the present. “Are you okay?”

“Ah…yeah...Rudy…I’m fine. Why?” Steve looked at the doctor with tired eyes.

“I thought you’d be ready to celebrate but you look like you just lost your best friend.”

Steve shot him a weak lopsided grin and said quietly, “I just did.” And walked away, his bodyguard suddenly on his heels.

Rudy called after him, “Steve where are you going?”

Without stopping Steve replied, “To call Scott.”

After making the afternoon call Steve briefly checked in on his daughter, finding her in a deep healing sleep. A quick swipe of his finger on his cheek stopped the tear from finishing its course. He needed to get some air, alone. He saw his bodyguard sitting in the lounge across the hall from Jen’s room reading a paper. The agent gave Steve his space when he was with his daughter since Steve always called to him when he was leaving the area and he would follow. Steve waited until the man held up the newspaper to turn the page before he bionically disappeared down the hallway and into the stairwell.

Dr. Wells contacted Oscar with the good news of Jen’s awakening and Oscar was on his way over. He too had news to share with Steve and Jennifer. While waiting for Oscar Rudy couldn’t get Steve’s behavior out of his head and he was surprised when he didn’t find Steve in his patient’s room, especially since his OSI escort was still sitting in the lounge.

The doctor did find a smiling Scott Yeager at Jen’s bedside. He looked at Rudy as he entered and whispered, “She woke up for a few seconds and smiled.” His happiness and relief evident in his face. The doctor shared his happiness before going to look for Steve. Rudy searched all the usual places like the lounge, the coffee machine, the cafeteria, even the men’s room down the hall without success. Exiting the rest room he nearly collided with Oscar.

“Oscar, have you seen Steve?”

“No, I thought he would be with Jennifer.”

Rudy nodded and pointed, “His shadow is in the lounge but I can’t find him.” Oscar’s face quickly displayed his concern. The tall man quickly approached this agent inquiring why Steve Austin was nowhere to be found. The agent insisted Steve was in his daughter’s room and was shocked to find out that wasn’t the case.

Oscar asked, “Where could he be?”

Rudy shared his confusion and concern over how Steve was acting when he last saw him. “Something’s going on with him but I don’t know what.”

The OSI agent and three hospital security personnel spent an hour searching the medical center. Finally having something to tell Goldman the agent returned to Jennifer’s room.

Stepping into the hallway to talk privately both Rudy and Oscar waited for the news, “Mr. Goldman we’ve found Colonel Austin.”

“Where Mr. Weber?”

“He’s on the roof.”

“On the roof!” they answered in unison.

“Yes sir. I tried to get him to come down but…”

“But what Weber…”

“He threatened to throw me off.” The embarrassed agent stated. “He said, in no uncertain terms, he wanted to be alone.”

Goldman could not contain his anger, “Alone! Do you realize his is an open target on that roof?!” Both Oscar and Rudy headed to the stairwell.

Before seating himself on the ledge Steve swept the surrounding rooftops with his telephoto lens to be sure he was alone. Resting his weary body he straddled the ledge taking in the calming orange sunset on the urban horizon. Suddenly he remembered the letter in his pocket and opened it. The news saddened him but it wasn’t completely unexpected. He knew there was a reason Barbara kept putting off their wedding date. She alluded to the fact she was disturbed by his risky occupation, especially after being married to a scientist for decades who kept the same nine-to-five schedule everyday. Several times over the past few months she also commented that his job took up a lot of his time, keeping them apart.

Steve wasn’t surprised by her actions. He had known her for many, many years. Although he loved her deeply he knew she had a selfish side that he frequently overlooked. She needed a man who paid attention to her, not divided his attention between her and his work. In fact that is why she left him all those years ago when he was in astronaut training, it took too much of his time away from her. She felt ignored.

From her letter he could deduce that the shooting at his birthday party was the final straw. She was not used to that kind of violence and it no doubt frightened her. He slowly folded the paper and returned it to his shirt pocket. Sighing deeply, knowing he lost, in one way or another, both of the women he loved most, he felt utterly alone.

The slamming of the stairway door got his attention but he didn’t move his gaze from the setting sun, knowing who it was. Oscar and Rudy just watched him for a few seconds before Rudy offered to approach their friend.

He stood, with his hands in his trouser pockets, ten feet from Steve when he commented, “I hope you aren’t planning on jumping.”

Steve chuckled and looked down at the street 15 stories below, “I think we both know I’m not that bionic.” The doctor was relieved at his humor. Steve glanced back at his boss, “So why does Oscar have such a long face?”

“I think he’s concerned someone might try to shoot you off that ledge like a stray pigeon.”

“He should give me more credit then that. I visually checked all the rooftops they’re clear.”

Taking a seat on the ledge facing his friend the doctor inquired, “So what brings you up here anyway?”

Steve continued to stare at the descending orb, “Just needed time to think that’s all.”

“What do you need to think about? Jennifer’s going to recover, you know that.” Steve just shook his head. “So what’s bothering you?”

Steve shrugged, “Its not important…in fact it’s silly actually.”

“I’m listening.” Rudy was curious what had knocked Steve so off balance today.

The bearded, blue-eyed man glanced at his friend then back at the sky without a word. The doctor decided to assist him, “Would you like me to tell you what’s wrong?”

A raised eyebrow met the doctor’s gaze challenging him to continue, “I think you’ve worn yourself out this past week sitting at your only child’s bedside wondering if she would live or die. The fact that she awoke from her 6-day coma and immediately asked for her fiancé has you feeling a little hurt.”

Steve smirked at Rudy’s direct hit, “I told you it was silly. I guess I thought I wouldn’t have to feel this way until her wedding day but I was wrong. It caught me off guard to say the least. I guess I unrealistically expected to always be the main male figure in her life. Now I know she already belongs to Scott.” Steve let out a soft chuckle, “I keep thinking of that saying, ‘If you love something…’”

“’Set it free,’” was finished in unison.

“I think every father probably feels that way Steve. Besides even though she’s getting married you’ll always be her father. You have 24 years of history together.” Steve just nodded. “Besides shortly after you left Jen’s room she asked if you were okay.” Steve’s brow ascended again in surprise and Rudy grinned, “I think you will feel a little better after Jen is back on her feet and you and Barbara begin to build your life together.”

“Barbara and I aren’t together anymore.” He informed the doctor quickly in a flat voice returning his eyes to the sunset. Rudy was surprised. “She left a note at my house. Apparently she couldn’t handle sharing me with my job not to mention the violence that she was exposed to since coming back into my life.” Steve took a deep breath, “I guess I don’t blame her. Being a close friend of mine or family member can be hazardous to your health.”

“I’m sorry Steve.” Rudy stated with all sincerity.

“Thanks Rudy.”

“What do you say you come down stairs with me before Oscar gets an ulcer?” Steve smiled and glanced at Oscar who hadn’t moved from the door.

“Sure why not.” The two longtime friends walked to the stairwell door. “Oscar why are you still here? Were you that worried I was going to jump or make an easy target for someone?”

Oscar face turned red, “Not exactly. The door to the stairs locked when it closed. I didn’t want to interrupt your private conversation just to have you open the door.” Steve and Rudy laughed as Steve reached forward with his right hand twisted the knob and pulled, snapping the steel deadbolt and swinging it open smoothly. “One locksmith at your service.”

The trio was surprised that Jen was awake upon their return to her room. Scott held her hand as Oscar filled everyone in on his findings. His investigation revealed it was Victor Gustinov who put out the 3 million dollar contract from his prison cell. Thankfully it wasn’t an open contract, meaning the money is awarded to whoever terminates the target first. It was a ‘gunman for hire’ type of contract so only one assassin was on the loose. The evidence was enough to get Victor solitary confinement without visitation or phone privileges.

Jen, in her weaken state could not prevent the tears that suddenly came, feeling helpless that her father would be killed. Steve went to her side and caressed the top of her head assuring her that no one would be killing him anytime soon. After a few minutes she calmed and relaxed under his paternal touch and was soon asleep. Steve knew Oscar probably had leads he wasn’t sharing so Steve made some calls on his own from Rudy’s office.

It wasn’t long before several colleagues at the OSI provided Steve with the information he needed. Now the hunter was to become the hunted, Steve headed out with his bodyguard in tow. Steve figure the first place to start would be with Victor at the Federal Penitentiary that is after he took care of Mr. Weber who was on his heels.

Both jumped into Steve’s car after a quick check for explosives. On the ride to Andrew’s AFB he planned an easy way to escape his shadow. After acquiring the keys and paperwork for the Boeing Bell Helicopter on the ramp Steve headed out. Hopping quickly into the right seat he simply locked the passenger door. He could hear Weber’s voice through the small opened space on the plexiglass window, “Colonel Austin you can’t leave without an escort sir!” He attempted to get the door open hearing the engine start.

“Believe me Weber you’ll be safer staying here.”

“Why’s that?”

“Because if you stay here I won’t have to push you out of this chopper on the way,” Steve yelled over the rotor blast. Weber slowly stepped back in self-defense allowing a grinning Steve to take off. ‘Now what do I tell Goldman?’ He thought as he headed to a phone.

Showing his government ID which he rarely even carried the guard led him to the section housing the prisoner in question. The dank corridor was cool and smelled of ammonia and cleaning solvents. They stopped at the third steel door.

“You’ll have to talk to him from here,” The guard said gruffly as he pointed to the small rectangular opening at eye level, the same opening the guards slid the food trays through. Leaning forward Steve eyed his target, wearing the familiar bright orange prison jumpsuit, standing across the six foot cell with his back to the door.

“Gustinov I want to talk to you.” Steve waited but the man didn’t respond. “Victor I’m not leaving until you give me some answers.” His order got him nothing, not even a twitch from the prisoner. Steve’s gut told him something wasn’t right. “When was the last time anyone spoke to him?” He asked the guard.

“Probably three days, he’s not the most talkative prisoner.”

“Open this door!”

“I can’t do that.” He replied apologetically.

“Either you open this door or I will.” Steve gave the overweight guard with the slicked back hair a steely gaze. The guard reiterated his position and remained passive. Steve’s face grew red with anger as he pulled up his right leg and kicked the door open with a resounding thud as it slammed against the wall, the hinges barely remaining intact.

With the unexpected bang the surprised prisoner spun on his heels to face Steve Austin who was quickly at his side. The Colonel’s eyes grew wide and he turned to swiftly exit the cell. Meeting the guard outside, he checked the name on his uniform and grasped his upper arm, “Mr. Stanton, the prisoner in there is not Victor Gustinov. He no doubt paid someone off to escape this place. Since you are the guard on this unit I suspect it was you.” His right arm began compressing the guard’s left arm and slowly dropping him to his knees. “Am I correct Mr. Stanton?” The guard was breathless feeling the arm was about to be broken. He nodded.

“I would appreciate it if you would provide me with any information you might have about Victor Gustinov and I will consider leaving you with your limbs intact.” By now the guards arm was completely numb from the pressure. He quickly nodded his cooperation after remembering Steve’s ability to open steel doors.

“Victor paid me to help him and this guy, who was scheduled to be released, switch places.” He grunted towards the prisoner sitting calmly on the cot inside the cell.

“Where is he now?”

“Somewhere near Arlington, Virginia…a friend of his has a cabin.”

“Does his friend have a name?”

“Lavinski….that’s all I know I swear.”

“Come on.” As Steve escorted the guard to the Warden’s office to have him place under arrest he sent another guard to relocate the now unsecured prisoner in solitary confinement.

Once back in the air Steve radioed the OSI and after Oscar finished shouting obscenities at him for leaving and putting himself in jeopardy Steve explained the unexpected turn of events. His boss refused to give him any information they might have on Lavinski and demanded Steve’s immediate return but Steve signed off the radio, smiling, and enjoyed his flight to Virginia. Once he was over the Virginia state line Steve contacted Scott Yeager for the needed background information. Scott was more than happy to help his future father-in-law. He provided him with the location of the cabin and wished him luck.

Oscar gathered what agents he had available and headed south. While en-route he informed Rudy of what had transpired, leaving it up to the doctor’s discretion what to tell Jennifer. It didn’t take long before Jennifer’s intuition kicked her in the gut to tell her something wasn’t right. She wasn’t sure if it was her father’s extended absence from her bedside or Rudy’s unusually quiet demeanor while examining her. “Rudy where’s my dad?” Seeing his uncomfortable expression Jen knew she hit the nail on the head.

“I don’t exactly know.” He replied honestly.

“Then what do you know Rudy?” She knew he could skirt around vague questions as well as anyone she knew. He took a deep breath before answering.

“Okay. He went to see Victor Gustinov but he found out Victor escaped from prison 2 days ago. Now he’s out looking for him.”

“Isn’t there still a hit man out there looking for him?” She tried to sit up with thoughts of getting out of bed.

Rudy nodded while pushing her back down, “Don’t worry Jen he’ll be careful. Your dad’s been an operative for the government for years and is very good at his job. He knows he’s a target and I’m sure he’s taking every precaution. Now relax you are in no condition to go anywhere, you know that.” Her steely blue eyes challenged him, “Please Jen, don’t make me sedate you.” She conceded and laid her head back on the pillow.

Looking at him with tired eyes she stated, “You will let me know if there’s any news.” Rudy smiled and nodded assuredly.

At the isolated cabin Victor was in a heated discussion with his unsuccessful hired gun. Although Victor got some pleasure out of hearing Jennifer Austin was wounded he was frustrated that Steve Austin was still walking around. ‘She got what she deserved the little bit…’ Victor thought was interrupted by his gunman assuring his boss he would not stop the hunt until the quarry was dead. His reputation was at stake. Victor nodded and dismissed him.

On the drive down the dirt road the assassin saw the helicopter landing in an open field. Wondering if it was local law enforcement he pulled into the trees to get a better look. Using his binoculars he couldn’t believe his luck…Steve Austin just landed on his lap.

‘This is too easy’ he thought as he stepped from the car and positioned his rifle on the roof. He watched the pilot exit the helicopter, unable to get a clear shot with the large rotorcraft in the way. He waited while Steve moved forward.

As he walked past the nose of the copter the sun reflected off something catching Steve’s attention. Realizing what it might be he dove for cover as the rifle discharged. He instantly felt his left leg go numb. Rolling into the brush he disappeared from the gunman’s sight. The assassin took off after his injured prey.

Steve was still able to launch himself, albeit awkwardly, onto a high tree limb using just one leg. He waited silently for the gunman to appear below him. Judging his landing carefully he stepped off the branch and landed on top of his assailant knocking him out cold. It took some time but Steve was able to drag him back to the copter, tying his arms and legs with the seatbelts he pulled out of the rear seat. He then secured him the skid. Oscar received Steve’s short radio call informing him of the capture and location before continuing his hunt for Gustinov.

His damaged leg had some power but was not supplying Steve’s nervous system with any feedback. Without feeling in his leg he had difficulty knowing where it was at times, slowing his progress. His knee kept giving out and without sensation caused him to fall often. He peeked in the back window of the small cabin to see Victor sitting in a chair, his back to his enemy. Steve wondered if he was armed, with no covert entry he may have to go right through the door. Before making a move he reached down and tore open his pant leg. Opening a small access panel behind the knee he fumbled with a tiny switch that locked his knee straight. He quietly stepped a few paces from the window figuring a surprise entrance from behind would be his best chance. Taking a deep breath he lunged forward with his strong leg launching him through the window.

Victor was immediately on his feet and turning as Steve impacted his body. They wrestled with Steve swiftly gaining the upper hand. He held Victor to the floor with his right hand on his throat, “Victor I’m taking you in and locking you away for good.”

“I’d rather die then be put back in your filthy prison,”

“That can be arranged.” Steve was suddenly kicked in the ribs and fell to the side.

Quickly regaining his feet he said, “I have a better idea. I kill you and bury you outside where no one will find you.”

Steve just stood and watched Victor’s every move trying not to show his weakened leg.

Victor taunted him, “Then I will visit that beautiful daughter of yours. I hear she is going to recover, maybe I take her with me to Russia.”

Steve’s face was crimson at the mention of his daughter. The man in front of him was responsible for her close call with death and Steve could barely maintain control of his anger. Victor reveled in the reaction he received and continued, “Yes, Jennifer is one tasty woman.” Steve lunged at him not realizing Gustinov’s plan was to get him so riled he would get sloppy. Steve’s punch landed on Victor’s face causing blood to flow from his nose. He instantly saw Steve’s limited mobility with his leg locked in extension. He gave him a devilish grin, “Did your daughter tell you how much she enjoyed my hands on her? I must say when her mouth was on mine I felt a rush through my whole body, if you get my meaning.” Steve’s mind filled with the scene of Jennifer beating the daylights out of this man. He undoubtedly would get the same satisfaction.

“You will have to kill me Austin and I don’t think you have it in you.” His smirk made Steve blood boil and he leaped up and spun using his injured extended leg catching Victor on the side of the head at high speed, snapping his neck before he knew what hit him. His body instantly crumpled to the floor with a thud as Oscar and his team burst through the door. With his gun trained on the escapee he asked if Steve was alright.

“Yeah just took a bullet in the leg. Don’t worry he’s dead.” He replied in a flat tone before hobbling over Victor’s body and out the door still seething from Victor’s recollections of his daughter. Oscar was surprised at Steve apathy towards killing the man, even though from what he witnessed from the window it was self defense.

Outside sitting on a log Steve began to have doubts if something more had happened to Jennifer while she was held captive. He was anxious to have a serious talk with his daughter.

Rudy was in Jen’s room when a nurse leaned in to inform the doctor that there was an urgent call for him from Oscar Goldman. He looked at his panicked patient with both hand raised in front of his chest, “I promise I’ll be right back.”

He returned after only a few minutes to inform Jennifer that they were on their way, her father sustaining a non-critical bullet wound to his leg. She leaned back into her pillow and thanked God for protecting him.

Steve lay on the examination table, an hour later, with his left leg exposed. Rudy worked on repairing the leg while Steve stared at the ceiling still not able to get Victor’s words out of his mind. He knew his daughter was mentally tough and also knew she would keep information from him in an effort to protect him. He asked Rudy if he knew of anything that may have happened. Rudy described Victor’s initial advances and could only tell him there were times that Victor and Jen were alone. Jennifer had never said anything to him.

They were interrupted by the door opening to a nurse pushing a pale faced, slightly short of breath Jennifer in a wheelchair. She looked apologetically at the two men, “Sorry I couldn’t wait to hear. How are you?”

“Fine, just a little repair nothing serious. Shouldn’t you be in bed?” He eyed her as she leaned in to get a closer look. Only getting silence from the young woman he looked at Rudy who nodded affirmatively.

The doctor had just finish up and left the pair alone for a few minutes to talk. After being barraged with several direct questions from her father Jen shared the details of what transpired between her and Victor. She confidently told her father that she was not psychologically damaged by it. He, in turn, explained what happened at the cabin and saw her noticeably relax knowing Victor would never be a threat again. Seeing the sheen of perspiration forming on her face and difficulty sitting upright in the chair he quickly pulled on his torn pants and wheeled her back to her room where he easily lifted her onto the bed.

Rudy entered just as Steve was fixing the blanket around the already slumbering patient. “She was really worried about you when you disappeared.”

“I know but I had to do it. I had to be sure she would be safe.” He said caressing her cheek and watching his daughter sleeping peacefully. Steve words were also meant to justify to himself why he did not allow the authorities to take Gustinov into custody.

The next day Scott was at work and Steve was keeping Jennifer from going stir crazy in her room. She was stiff and restless from lying for so long and begged Steve to allow her to walk to the bathroom only 30 feet away. At first Steve wouldn’t hear of such nonsense but she kept up her argument, telling her father he of all people should understand her plight of being kept in a bed for so long. With those words Steve caved and assisted his daughter across the room pulling her I.V. pole with her right hand.

He stood outside the slightly opened door praying his weak daughter wouldn’t collapse.

“Jen hurry up! I have a gut feeling Rudy already knows.”

“I’m coming.” With the sound of rushing water she opened the door and Steve quickly slid his arm around her waist steadying her feeble footsteps. Both of them thought they had gotten away with their rebellious plan but halfway back to the bed the door suddenly opened and Dr. Wells eyed them with a disapproving eye. He maintained a very serious look on his face but inside he was amused at the identical looks of both father and daughter. Steve’s and Jen’s matching blue eyes were as big as saucers and both had their left eyebrows cocked in surprise of his unexpected entrance.

“What are you two doing?”

“Ah… nothing Rudy. My dad was just helping me stand up. You know to stretch my legs.”

“Then why are you standing in the middle of the room instead of next to your bed? And wasn’t that a toilet flush I heard when I came in?”

Steve tried to explain, “Ah…yeah Rudy…I was using the bathroom.”

“And you needed Jennifer to walk you over there to show you where the bathroom was?”

Jen leaned in to her father but Rudy still heard the shared words, “He doesn’t miss much does he?”

“Not usually.” Steve frowned. “Come on let’s get you back to bed.”

Unable to suppress his grin at the duo’s interaction he excused himself to the hallway stating he would return shortly. He left out a hearty chuckle as soon as he got to the nurse’s desk. ‘My God they are two of a kind’ he thought.

Steve quickly helped his weakened daughter back into bed both giggling at getting caught. Jen solicited help from her father, “I would appreciate any suggestions you might have on how to get around our stern Dr. Wells.”

“I can’t help you Jen. I swear the man has ESP or something. He always knows when his patient is disobeying his orders.”

“Great, now I’ll be stuck in this bed until I’m discharged.”

Getting settled down Jen inquired why she had not seen Barbara around. Steve explained the situation causing Jen’s heart to sink. Steve assured her he would survive and that he would take Barbara’s place with the wedding planning. After Steve left Jennifer laid in the uncomfortable bed, staring at the ceiling, realizing what her father’s life as an OSI operative had cost him over the years.

A week later Jen was being discharged. Steve hovered in the background as Scott assisted her with putting on her shoes and socks, having already packed her things for home. Steve watched as he made sure Jen was comfortable before excusing himself to get the car. Steve pushed Jen’s wheelchair to the front entrance asking if there was anything he could do. Jen explained how Scott had moved some of his things to her house and got permission to work from home for the next week. Looking at her father’s sad face her intuition told her he was feeling unnecessary.

He opened the car door and helped her to stand as Scott placed her bag in the backseat. She lovingly placed a hand on his cheek and said, “You’re my Dad. I will always need and want you around so I expect you to visit me everyday okay?” Steve gave her a genuinely happy grin, “You bet.”