Post by S. Austin61 (Goldman74) on Aug 17, 2009 21:35:19 GMT -4
sequel to THE SUBSTITUTE
Steve's efforts to adopt a young boy are challanged by Jack Hanson.
Obstacls and road blocks
1-4
OBSTICLES AND ROAD BLOCKS
(1)
Steve sat in his lawyer’s office. “So you don’t see me having any trouble adopting Donald?” He asked.
“Not that I can see. The agency is very excited to have an adoptive parent for Donald. They would prefer that you were married but with Don’s special situation they decided to over look that.”
“That’s great.” Steve was so happy he could barely contain himself. “When can I pick him up?”
“The social worker in charge of his case…” He ruffled through some papers “I believe her name is Ella Martin, said you could pick him up any time after lunch from his foster home. The Foster mother has everything already to go…you know the address?”
Steve nodded “I’ve been there before. I’ll go around one. Do I need to call first?”
The lawyer shook his head. “No I’ll take care of all of that” he assured.
“That sounds wonderful. Tell her I’ll be there by one.” Elated Steve left his lawyer’s office and headed for Oscars.
“I’m against it Steve. Oscar sighed. But I suppose I can’t tell you what to do.”
“That’s right you can’t.” Steve sneered. “I have to pick him up at one. I’ll stop by afterward.”
“I’ll be anxious to see him again. You know Steve I know you feel you owe Donald. We all do. But maybe adoption isn’t the best route.”
“What are you saying?” Steve glared at him.
“Ok, ok well you do whatever. I can’t tell you again how much I’m against this. Oscar continued.”
“I’d like you to tell me why” Steve sat across from him.
“Steve you work for this agency…”
“What because I work for the government I can’t become a parent. What if I were married and my wife were expecting, then what?”
“This is a far different case and you know it” Oscar reminded.
“No I don’t think I see the difference” Steve scowled.
“Steve Donald has special needs what if he gets really attached to you, then I send you on a mission, how will the boy feel when you’re not around?”
“I’m going to hire a nanny. She’ll live with us and already be established so to speak. Don can rely on her.”
“Sounds like you have this all worked out” Oscar sighed.
Steve nodded. “I have to go. I’ll see you after I pick up Don.”
As Steve left Oscar picked up the phone and dialed Rudy’s office. “Rudy we need to talk.”
//////////////////////////////
As Steve pulled up in front of Mary Marks house it began to drizzle slightly.
“Hello Mrs. Mark.” Steve said when the foster mother opened the door.
“Col. Austin. Right on time she noted.” Donald is waiting for you.
Steve gave a smile “is he anxious to come with me?”
Mary thought for a moment. ‘As a matter of fact yes, Donald usually doesn’t like change but in this case he’s willing to accept it. Please come in and sit down. I just finished packing his things.”
Steve stepped into the front hall. “I can’t wait” he beamed.
I’m sure, by the way if the doorbell rings answer it. It will be Ella Martin. She has all the paper work for you, so you can take Donald home.”
Mary no sooner disappeared when the doorbell did ring. Steve reached over and answered it. “Hi Mrs. Martin, come on in. Mary just went to get Donald.”
“Very good, you are aware of Donald’s special problem right?”
Steve nodded. I know he’s autistic I’m just not all that sure what that means but I have a friend who’s a doctor he said he’d be willing to give me any information or assistance I might need.”
“That’s good. She handed Steve a large folder. This is Donald’s file. You can read it when ever you get a chance. Your friend may also want to look at it.”
“I’m sure he will. Thank you. Steve held the file in one hand.”
And this Ella handed him another folder This is the paper work saying you are now Donald’s legal guardian and that the adoption procedure is in place. It will take at least six months for everything to me complete.”
“It takes that long? Steve sighed.”
I’m afraid so.” They were interrupted when Mary appeared with Donald.
“Well hi Donald.” Steve greeted. “Are you ready to come home with me?”
Don nodded. “Yes, yes, yes Mr. Anderson I mean Mr. Austin.”
“Great I have your room all ready. I thought you could give me some ideas as to how to decorate it.”
Don just nodded
Mary handed Steve Dons suitcase. “Everything is in here. Oh don’t forget your sketch pad Donald.
“Sketch pad?” Steve questioned.
“Donald is quite the artist.” Mary smiled.
I see. Well why don’t you carry your sketch pad and Ill take the suitcase. How does that sound?
That, that, that sounds fine Mr. Austin” Don smiled.
“You can call me Steve if you want...or dad.” Steve smiled.
Donald merely shrugged as he followed Steve to the car.
/////////////////////////////////
“What did you want to see me about?” Rudy asked after he had poured himself a drink and was seated across from Oscar.
“It’s about Steve’s recent decision to adopt that boy.” Oscar began.
“I take it you against it.” Rudy took sip of his drink.
“Of course I am you’re not.” He glanced at Rudy.
“As a matter of fact yes I just don’t think it’s a good idea for Steve to do this.” Rudy sighed. “He asked my advice a while ago. I gave him the information I could on autistic children I was hoping that would dissuade him.”
“It didn’t?” Oscar asked.
Rudy shook his head. “He’s determined to do this.”
“Well maybe if the two of us talk to him” Oscar began.
“I don’t think that will do it.” Rudy sighed. “I don’t think he’ll listen to us.
“Well then we’ll have to find someone he will listen too.” Oscar thought.
“Who would that be?” Rudy wondered
“I don’t know right now, give me time. I’ll think of somebody.”
//////////////////////////////////////////
“I have a stop to make before we go to the house. You don’t mind do you?” Steve smiled at his new son.
“That’s ok.” Donald spoke softly. The drizzle had turned into a light rain so Steve turned the windshield wipers of the car on. Don began watching them swing back and forth.
“How about chicken for dinner?” Steve asked as asked as it began to rain harder.
Don didn’t respond he continued watching the windshield wipers.
“Did you hear me?” Steve glanced over at Donald.
“Twenty times” Don replied.
“What was that?” Steve asked.
“Twenty times” Don repeated.
What’s twenty times? Steve wondered
Don pointed to the windshield. “That. It comes to this side twenty times in a minute that would be 1,200 times an hour and 28,800 times a day. and 201,600 in a week and 1,497,600 times in a year.”
“No wonder they need to be replaced so often.” Steve muttered. He made a mental note to add that up with Rudy when they got to the OSI building.
When they arrived Steve took Don and headed straight for Rudy’s office. He was very curious to see if the numbers added up.
Rudy was sitting at his desk when they walked in, “hi Rudy” Steve began. “Are you busy?” Steve asked.
“Not really… just trying to look that way.” I take it this is Donald?
Steve nodded. Do me a favor Rudy. Steve gave Rudy the figures Donald had given him about the windshield wipers. Just tell me if he’s right.
Rudy got out a calculator and began punching the numbers in. He’s exactly right. Rudy proclaimed. Oscar wants to see us both down in his office. Lynda says she’ll watch Donald for you.”
“Yeah, sure ok” Steve explained everything to Donald and followed Rudy.
‘If you think you’re going to talk me out of this.” Steve began once they were sat down. “You’re wasting your time.”
“Steve, were just asking you to reconsider.” Oscar objected.
“This is what I want. I know what I’m getting into I’ve done a lot of reading and spoke at length to the foster mother. I know it’s not going to be easy at first but I think we’ll make it.”
Oscar threw up his hands. “I give up. I guess I can’t tell you how to live your life. I just thought I’d give it one last shot.”
“I think I better take Donald home. He needs to get used to his new home. Oscar, try not to call on me for a few weeks huh?”
“If you’re sure this is what you want.” Oscar agreed.
“It’s what I want. Steve turned and left Oscar’s office and headed for Rudy’s. Come on Donald we’re leaving.”
Don stood and followed Steve out of the room and down the hall.
“You gave up rather quickly.” Rudy noted.
“It just seems that way. Remember when I was talking about someone else talking to Steve?”
Rudy nodded
I’ve found someone. He reached for the phone and dialed. “Hello Cassie?” He spoke when his number three agent picked up the phone.
(2)
Rudy gave a slight nod.
“Yes Oscar” Cassie replied when she picked up the phone. “What can I do for you?” I just got back from a mission don’t tell me you have another one for me.
“As a matter of fact” Oscar gave a slight smile.
“Oh Oscar what is it? Cassie moaned. “Isn’t there another female agent who can do it?”
You’re the best one for the job…this job. Oscar explained the situation to Cassie.
“You really want me to convince Steve to not adopt this child?” Cassie could hardly believe what she was hearing. “Because if that’s the case I’m afraid you picked the wrong person.’
“Oh.” Oscar muttered. “I see.”
“Oscar I think that Steve is doing a wonderful thing. I have to say this ok. I think you’re just worried about how Steve’s becoming a parent is going to affect you.
Oscar sighed. “I suppose you’re right.”
“I won’t do this Oscar.” Cassie finished. Cassie hung up the phone and headed over to Steve’s house.
///////////////////////////////////////
Well Donald here we are. Steve pulled into the driveway.
“This, this, this is your house?” Donald asked.
“No. It’s our house son”. Steve smiled at him. “Come on in I’ll show you your room. I’ll take the suit case you just follow me. I thought you could give me some ideas on how you want to decorate it.”
“Planets” Donald looked around the room. “I like planets.”
“I like space myself.” Steve reached over and ruffled his hair. Donald shrank back.
“I’m sorry you don’t like that?” Steve asked.
Don shook his head.
“Well I guess we have to get time to know each other. Steve set the suit case down
Donald looked around the room. “Planets” he said again.
“Ok, planets it will be. Now what would you like for dinner?”
Donald thought for a moment. “Thursday, chicken.” He said.
“We can arrange that. What else…” He was interrupted when the doorbell rang. 8 to 5 its Oscar Steve thought to himself then turned to Donald. “Let’s see who that is.”
The two headed for the front door. Steve opened it. ‘Cassie! He cried. “When did you get back?”
“Just about an hour or so ago” Cassie smiled. “Oscar told me what you were doing, I think it’s wonderful,” Cassie looked down at Donald.
“Come on in.” Steve opened the door all the way. “Donald this is a friend of mine her name is Cassie.”
Donald ducked behind Steve. “He’s a little shy with new people.” Steve apologized.
“That’s ok. Well get to know each other.” Cassie smiled at the two of them.
“We were just about ready to get dinner started.” Steve. Cassie and Donald moved down the front hall. “Then we have to finish unpacking.”
“What are you having?” Cassie asked.
“Chicken” Steve told her.
“I’ll fix it if the two of you want to finish unpacking.” Cassie offered.
“That would be great. I have some in the freezer, just take it out and put it in the oven. It should be ready in about forty five minutes or so.”
“Are you sure?” She thought for a moment. “Oh its frozen chicken already made.”
“Yeah it’s in the freezer. I have to call Oscar I have a list of nannies I plan to interview in the next couple of days. I want to make sure they aren’t a security risk or anything.”
“I’ll get dinner going. You two go ahead. Cassie headed for the kitchen;” she decided not to tell Steve of her conversation with Oscar.
While Cassie got dinner going Steve headed for the phone. He picked up the receiver and dialed. Don watched as he punched in the numbers. “Oscar? It’s me Steve. I have that list from the agency…the one with the potential nannies.” Steve spoke into the mouth piece.
“Oh right. Just bring it by in the morning.” Oscar sounded preoccupied. ‘Just come on in anytime. I’ll have the background checks done.”
“First thing in the morning, Donald and I have some things to do.” Steve went on.
‘Oh you have him with you?” Oscar sounded disappointed.
“Of course I do. Cassie is here to.” Steve continued.
“Cassie?” Oscar questioned wondering if she had said anything about their conversation.
“Yeah she’s fixing dinner. I have to go. I’ll see you in the morning then.”
“Yeah sure Steve” Oscar hung up and concentrated on more important matters.
Steve joined Cassie and Donald in the kitchen. “Dinner will be a little while. Cassie smiled.”
“Thanks.” Steve replied. “Oscar said to stop by anytime.”
“Do you want me to give him the list?” Cassie asked.
“No, Don and I have some errands to run. I’ll drop it by first thing in the morning.”
////////////////////////////////////////////
The next morning Steve and Donald were up and around early. They got to Oscars office shortly after Oscar arrived.
“You should have had Donald a long time ago.” Oscar teased. “You never got here this early before even if I asked you to come in.”
“Ha, ha, ha” Steve smiled. “Anyway here’s that list I was telling you about.”
“Do you really think it’s a good idea bringing a stranger into the house I mean what if she hears something.”
“We just won’t talk in front of her…or Donald.” Steve assured.
“I suppose that would work.” Oscar agreed. “I still don’t think this is a good idea. But if its something you want?”
“I do want it Oscar.” Steve explained. “I don’t know there was something about that kid that I can’t explain it. And then when I found out he was living in a foster home I knew I had to have him as my son.”
‘I guess I understand.” They were interrupted when the phone rang. Donald watched as he picked up the phone.
“This is Oscar Goldman speaking. Yes Jaime he’s right here.” He handed the phone to Steve.
“Hi Jaime, how are you doing?” Steve asked.
“I’m fine. I was going to come out day after tomorrow so we can discuss plans for your parent’s anniversary.” Jaime began.
“That would be great. I have a big present for them.”
“What’s that?” Jaime asked.
“You remember the other day I told you that I was thinking of adopting Donald.”
“The adoption went through?” Jaime asked.
“It sure did so I guess mom and dad are grandparents now. You won’t say anything right?”
“Of course not, I’ll see you day after tomorrow.” Jaime assured.
“See you then.” Steve hung up the phone and handed the receiver to Oscar. “Thanks.”
“No problem. Now as I was saying”… The phone rang again once again Don watched carefully as Oscar reached for it
“This is Oscar Goldman speaking. He began again. Oh yes Mr. Secretary. I have right here.” He reached in his drawer and pulled out a file then tuned to Steve and Donald.
“Say Don I guess we better go.” Steve laid the list on Oscar’s desk and they headed out the door.
“Well are you ready?” Steve asked as he and Donald go into the car.
Don nodded.
They were just getting ready to pull out of the parking lot when a car pulled up next to them and honked. “Hey Steve, hi Donald” Cassie called out.
“Hi Cass” Steve smiled. “Donald and I were just on our way to the department store. Do you want to join us?”
“That’s why I’m here.” Cassie got into the car.
“You don’t mind do you Donald?” Steve asked.
Don shook his head.
“Ok then.” Steve pulled out into traffic and the three headed out.
You know Steve you might not need to hire a nanny.” Cassie began. “I wouldn’t mind watching Donald while you’re working for Oscar.”
“I can’t ask you to do that, besides what happens if we are both called away at the same time or on the same mission?”
“That’s pretty rare.” Cassie stated “and besides, Rudy could watch him if that would be the case. Donald is already getting used to me. I think it could work. We could try it anyway. If it doesn’t work then you could think about hiring a nanny.”
Steve nodded “I suppose you’re right.”
“I know I am. I would love to help you take care of Donald.” Cassie finished.
“Well then I guess we’ll give it a try.” Steve agreed.
“Well now that that’s settled, where are we off to?”
“Well Donald wants to decorate his room with space” Steve told her
“Oh and you didn’t have anything to do with that?” Cassie teased.
“As a matter of fact it was Don’s idea.” Steve told her.
///////////////////////////////////////
At the OSI Oscar and Rudy were talking in Rudy’s office when Lynda walked in and told Oscar he had a visitor in his office.
“I wonder who that could be.” Oscar stood and looked at Rudy
“I wouldn’t know. Want me to come with you?”
“I think I can handle it.” Oscar muttered as he headed for the door. He walked down the hall to his office.
He opened the door to his outer office ready to ask Callahan who was waiting for him only to discover she was gone. Mystified he walked over to his inner office door and opened it. “Well I should have known” Oscar greeted his guest who was sitting behind his desk. “Hanson what the heck do you want?”
(3)
“And hello to you to.” Hanson stood and greeted Oscar.
“I asked you what you wanted.” Oscar seethed through clenched teeth.
“Nothing major, I need to borrow one of you agents for and international mission.” Hanson began
“What’s wrong with your own agents? Has the NSB run out?” Oscar fumed.
“On the contrary, this mission requires a very special touch. A bionic touch if you get my meaning.” Hanson explained.
“Col. Austin is not available.” Oscar spat.
“I’m sorry to hear that is he currently on an assignment?” Hanson pressed.
“That Hanson is none of your business.” Oscar was practically shouting. “By the way what have you done with my secretary?”
“Callahan? She’s fine. I sent her on a little errand. I didn’t want her to forewarn you that I was here…. now about Col. Austin?”
“That figures”. Oscar muttered. “I told you already Austin is not available for a mission right now it’s uh personal.” Oscar explained.
“Personal?” Hanson questioned. “How personal, is it medical?”
“No, no nothing like that”. Oscar hedged.
“Well then exactly what is it Goldman. I come here asking your help and I’m being treated like a grade two what gives?”
“Steve is in the process of adopting a child…. a young boy who helped him out on a mission, a while back.”
“A child helped Austin?” Hanson sounded skeptical.
“It’s a long story but Austin was locked in a freezer…”
“A freezer?” Hanson still sounded as if he didn’t believe Oscar
“The extreme cold shuts down the bionic power. I’m not exactly sure why. For that you would have to speak to Rudy Wells.”
“Go on!” Hanson demanded.
“Anyway this boy…Donald knew the combination. He got the door opened for us and the rest is history.”
“So you mean to tell me that I have to put one of my missions on hold so Austin can play daddy to some little brat?” Hansons temper rose.
“What Col. Austin does in his personal life is not my business.” Oscar shouted.
“Unless it interferes with his work” Hanson quickly added.
“Get out of my office!” Oscar seethed.
“Fine I’ll just find Austin myself.” Hanson stormed out of Oscar’s office slamming the door behind him.
“I better warn Steve.” Oscar picked up the phone and dialed Steve’s house. There was no answer. Then he tried the car phone …still no answer.
/////////////////////////////////
Steve Cassie and Donald finished up there shopping and stopped for lunch.
“Well.” Cassie commented. “We got a lot done, didn’t we?”
Steve nodded. “We sure did. I’ll hire a paper hanger tomorrow. I just hope it’s done before my parents come. They are having their anniversary in a couple of weeks. I told them to come out here. Of course that was before I knew I was going to adopt Donald here but they are coming out.”
“That’s great. I think I remember you saying something about that before I left on that last mission.”
Again Steve nodded. “I think I did. Jaime is coming out tomorrow sometime I think to help us plan things out. Maybe the two of you can come up with some ideas.”
“I’d love to help.” Cassie remarked.
The waiter came to take their order. Steve and Cassie continued talking.
/////////////////////////////////
“I don’t care how you find him!” Hanson shouted at two of his men. “You find him and then let me know. Austin has to understand work takes over everything. Especially some little snot nosed kid.”
“Well find him.” The agents assured.
“You have three hours. If you don’t find him by then I strongly suggest you don’t come back here and seek other employment!!” Hanson barked.
“Yes sir.” The agents had a slight quiver in their voices.
“Start with his house.” Hanson sounded calmer.
“Yes sir.” The agents replied once again as th1ey left their boss office.
Hanson continued to storm around his office. He barked orders to everyone.
///////////////////////////////////////
Again Oscar slammed his phone down “dam!” He swore just as Rudy walked into his office.
“What’s the matter?” Rudy asked.
“Oh it’s Hanson. He wants to use Steve for a mission he says he’ll stop at nothing to get him to go. I’m trying to warn him.”
“I take it you’re not having any luck.” Rudy sat in one of the chairs in front of Oscar’s desk
Oscar shook his head. “I’m afraid not.”
“I think he and Cassie are still out shopping.” Rudy surmised.
“I’m sure you’re right.” Oscar sighed as he reached to dial Steve once again.
/////////////////////////
After lunch Steve dropped Cassie off back at the OSI so she could go home “Are you sure you don’t want me to stop by?” Cassie asked.
After some thought Steve turned back to here “If you want you can come by for dinner, only this time I’m doing the cooking.”
“I’ll be there around six then.” Cassie promised.
“Sounds good, Donald and I will have things all ready. Right? Steve turned to the back seat. Don was staring at his watch.
“Its…its…its two o’clock now that’s four hours and two hundred and forty minutes Don thought some more then 26 thousand 400 seconds.”
Steve and Cassie stared at Donald.
“Is he right?” Cassie asked.
Steve shrugged. “He was before.”
“I don’t get it.” Cassie continued to stare at Donald.
“He’s got this thing with numbers.” Steve smiled.
“Well ok then. I’ll see you at…uh later.
“Yea right” Steve pulled out of the parking lot and headed home.
They arrived at the house and the two got out of the car and headed inside. “I left something in the car.” Steve said. “Why don’t you go to your room, make sure it’s ready for company. I’ll be right back.”
Steve headed outside and Donald started for his room when the phone rang. Don picked it up.
“Hello.” He spoke
“Steve?” Oscar asked.
No…no…no its Donald” Don responded.
“Where’s Steve?” Oscar asked.
“He’s coming.” Don answered.
“Ok then I’ll just hang on. Tell him I’m on the phone.” Oscar’s patients were wearing thing.
“I will.” Don set the phone down on the desk and started for the door to tell Steve he had a phone call. Steve was just coming in.
“How does your room…”
“The phone is for you.” Donald told him
“Oh? Who is it? Steve wondered.
Your friend, Mr. Speaking” Don stated.
“Mr. Speaking?” Steve repeated. “I don’t know anyone by that name.” Steve headed for the phone and lifted the receiver. “Mr. Speaking?” Steve asked.
“No it’s me Oscar.” Oscar was in no moods for games but Steve couldn’t help bursting out laughing.
“What’s so funny? Oscar snorted.
“Don told me my friend Mr. Speaking was on the phone.” Steve got control over himself. “You know how when you answer the phone you always say Oscar Goldman speaking? Well Don thinks speaking is your last name.”
“Steve this is serious. Oscar ignored the situation.” Hanson was in my office just a few…”
“Hanson, what does he want?” Steve sounded annoyed.
“He wants you for a mission.” Oscar started.
“I work for the OSI. Not the NSB.” Steve reminded.
“I told him it wasn’t possible. He said he would find you himself and make you go.”
“I’ll take care of it Oscar. Thanks for the heads up.” Steve hung up the phone and turned to Don. Now about your room…”
“I..I...I’m going.” Don headed down the hall.
Steve had just gotten to the kitchen when the doorbell rang. “Cassie’ Steve muttered. you just can’t help yourself can you?” Steve smiled to himself. He headed for the front door and opened it. “Hanson. What do you want?”
“I’m sure Goldman has already told you.” Hanson snarled. “I need you to take care of something for me.”
“I’m busy!” Steve turned away from him.
“Let’s go Austin.” Hanson pulled out his revolver.
“Come on Hanson.” Steve glanced back at him.
“I mean it Austin lets go.” Hanson ordered.
“Not right now.” Steve faced him. “I have other things I’m doing.”
“We’ll take care of your kid. This won’t take long.” Hanson moved toward Steve. As he moved forward he stumbled over his own feet. When he tripped the gun went off the bullet striking Steve in the chest
(4)
At the sound of the gun firing Hanson’s aide ran headlong into Steve’s house. “What happened boss?” The aide asked.
“It went off by accident.” Hanson’s voice trembled. “I didn’t mean it. I was only using the gun to scare Austin.”
“We better call for help.” The aide suggested.
“We can’t. Goldman will never believe it was an accident” Hanson grabbed his aide and pulled him out the front door.
Donald had watched the entire scene play out, he walked passed Steve who was lying on the floor. He peered out the window and watched as Hanson pulled away. Then he went and sat on the floor next to Steve.
////////////////////////////////////////
“I’m on my way over there now Oscar.” Cassie spoke into the phone. “I don’t like Hanson at all nor do I trust him.”
“I don’t know if Hanson made contact, I spoke to him a while ago. He said he stopped at Steve’s, rang the bell and didn’t get an answer.”
“I’ll check it out.” Cassie assured.
“Thanks Cassie.” Oscar breathed a sigh of relief and hung up. “Cassie is going to check everything out.” He nodded to Rudy.
“Good. Now will you relax?”
Oscar nodded.
/////////////////////////////////////////
Cassie pulled up in front of Steve’s house. Jaime pulled up right behind her. “Hi Cassie how are you?” Jaime asked.
“I’m fine. When did you get to DC?” Cassie wondered
“Just a while back I tried to call Steve when I got here, but no one answered. He said he would be here.”
“Oscar suspects Hanson took him” Cassie explained. Hanson wanted to use Steve on a mission and Oscar denied him.
“We better check it out.” Jaime suggested. The two women headed up the porch steps. Do you have a spare key? Jaime turned to Cassie.
“As a matter of fact” Cassie pulled the key out of her purse.
“Good I won’t have to break down the door. Jaime sighed. And I’m sure Steve wouldn’t like it very well.”
“I’m sure he wouldn’t” Cassie laughed as she unlocked the door and the two women walked into the house. The sight that awaited them shocked them both Steve lying unconscious on the floor, blood flowing from the wound in his chest with Donald sitting beside him.
“Cassie you take Donald. I’ll call Rudy!” Jaime ordered. “I think Donald knows you better than me and from what Steve has said…”
“Say no more. Cassie interrupted. She reached down and helped Donald to his feet. “Come on honey.”
Jaime ran to the phone and dialed Rudy. “Rudy this is Jaime send an ambulance to Steve’s house.”
“What’s wrong?” Rudy asked.
“Steve’s been shot”. Jaime told him.
“I’m on my way!” He stopped long enough to tell Oscar where he was going.
“I’ll meet you at national.” Oscar stood and headed out of his office.
He arrived at the hospital at the same time as Jaime, Cassie and Donald. “How is he?” Oscar asked.
“We don’t know.” Jaime started for the hospitals main entrance. “Rudy took him in the ambulance we came in the car.”
The four stood at the elevator. Oscar pressed the button. “What happened?” Oscar asked as they waited.
“I don’t know.” Cassie sniffed. “Jaime and I got to Steve’s at the same time. When we walked in we found Steve on the floor.”
The elevator arrived and they all stepped on. “I just can’t believe this.” Oscar continued. “Did you two see anything?” Oscar looked from Cassie to Jaime.
Both women shook their heads. “Do you think we’d be standing around here if that were the case?” Jaime scolded.
“I guess you’re right.” The elevator stopped and they all stepped off. The four headed down the hall to toward the Bionics section. The guard at the door snapped to attention when they saw Oscar Goldman.
“I’m sorry sir.” One of the guards spoke up “the boy?”
“He’s Col. Austin’s adopted son.” Oscar explained.
“Yes sir.” The guard replied as he stood aside to allow them all to pass.
They entered the bionics section. Oscar looked up and down the hall. “I don’t see Rudy. He must be in surgery with Steve.”
“Let’s wait in his office.” Cassie suggested.
They opened the door and stepped inside. They were all on their third cup of coffee when Rudy entered the room.
“Good you’re all here.” Rudy exclaimed when he saw they were all there.
How’s Steve?” They all asked.
“Not very good” Rudy sighed.
“Tell us.” Oscar demanded.
“The bullet ripped through Steve’s chest. It punctured the heart and damaged the lungs.” Rudy explained.
“How bad is the damage?” Cassie’s voice quavered.
“It’s bad.” Rudy shook his head. “Right now the bullet is still in the heart”
“What?” Oscar shouted.
“I can’t remove it right now. I’ve repaired some of the damage. Steve just isn’t strong enough to be in surgery that long.”
“So what are you going to do?” Jaime asked.
“We’re going to let it stand as is for now. Till Steve is strong enough to withstand another operation” Rudy sat down behind his desk.
“When will that be?” Oscar asked.
“I don’t really know.” Rudy sighed.
“More than a week?” Oscar pressed. “Rudy he has to tell us who did this to him. We need to question him.”
“I don’t know if we’ll ever get that chance.” Rudy continued.
“I know he saw who did this to him.” Oscar muttered.
“I know” Rudy looked around the room. “Did you ask Donald?”
Oscar shook his head “I don’t think he’s a very reliable witness.” Oscar tried to explain.
“What do you mean?” Rudy wondered.
“Well for starters he thinks my name is Speaking.” Oscar began.
“We could give it a try.” Rudy walked over to where Donald sat.
“Hi Donald” Rudy sat next to him. “I’m Dr. Wells, I’m a friend of Steve’s Do you know what’s going on?”
Donald stared blankly into space but after several minutes nodded slightly.
“Now Donald, this is important. Did you see who did this?” Rudy continued.
Again Donald stared off into space but gave a slight nod.
“Can you tell us?” Rudy pressed.
Donald shook his head. He ran over to a corner of the room and sat.
“He obviously saw what happened.” Rudy turned to all in the room. “But it was very traumatic it would be traumatic for a normal child… but for someone like Donald. It can cause him regress.” Rudy explained.
“What do we do?” Jaime asked.
“We have to try and see if we can get him to tell us but that’s easier said than done.” Rudy noted.
“He’s already shut down.” Cassie whispered.
“What was that Cassie?” Rudy asked.
“I’ve seen him before this Rudy. I know what he was like.” Cassie walked over to him. Don wouldn’t even look at her. “What can we do for him?”
“Just try to bring him back.” Rudy stated. “I don’t know if that’s going to be possible but we have to try.”
“I think I better take him back to Steve’s.” Cassie suggested. “Get him back to normal.”
“I think that might help.” Rudy agreed.
“You’re going to have to be careful though.” Oscar warned “the house is being treated as a crime scene.”
“We know what to do.” Jaime assured. “She turned to Cassie. Should we go?”
Cassie nodded. “Come on Donald.” Cassie took his hand and then turned to Jaime. “Do you want to help?”
Jaime nodded. “There’s nothing more we can do here?” She turned to Rudy.
Rudy shook his head. “No Steve is sleeping. I’m sure he’ll stay that way. Take Don home. Try to get him to respond to you.”
//////////////////////////////////////////
Cassie, Jaime and Donald arrived back at Steve’s house. Technicians from the NSB the OSI and the FBI were all over the place.
“There’s Hanson.” Jaime said. “Let’s ask him how the investigation is going.”
Cassie nodded and the two women approached Hanson. “Any leads yet?” Cassie asked.
“Not yet.” Hanson turned toward the three. “We’re working on it though.”
At the sight of Hanson, Donald let out a scream and ran for his room.
“You talk to him Jaime, I’ll see what’s wrong with Donald.” Cassie said
Cassie followed Don to his room “what is it honey. She soothed.
Donald sat on his bed rocking back and forth.
“Come on sweetie you can tell me.” Cassie tried to calm the frightened boy.
Without looking at Cassie Donald screamed “It was him!!! Oh Miss Cassie it was him.” Donald rolled over on the bed and refused to speak anymore.
Jaime had heard the entire conversation and came running to the hallway were Cassie had just closed Don’s bedroom door. “You heard?”
Jaime nodded “I’ll call Oscar. She went for the phone and dialed Oscar’s number. She told him Donald had opened up and that Hanson was the one who had shot Steve.
“That’s good news. Oscar’s voce was heavy
“Oscar, what’s wrong?” Jaime asked.
“It’s Steve. Rudy says he’s in a coma. Rudy’s not certain he’ll ever wake up….”
Steve's efforts to adopt a young boy are challanged by Jack Hanson.
Obstacls and road blocks
1-4
OBSTICLES AND ROAD BLOCKS
(1)
Steve sat in his lawyer’s office. “So you don’t see me having any trouble adopting Donald?” He asked.
“Not that I can see. The agency is very excited to have an adoptive parent for Donald. They would prefer that you were married but with Don’s special situation they decided to over look that.”
“That’s great.” Steve was so happy he could barely contain himself. “When can I pick him up?”
“The social worker in charge of his case…” He ruffled through some papers “I believe her name is Ella Martin, said you could pick him up any time after lunch from his foster home. The Foster mother has everything already to go…you know the address?”
Steve nodded “I’ve been there before. I’ll go around one. Do I need to call first?”
The lawyer shook his head. “No I’ll take care of all of that” he assured.
“That sounds wonderful. Tell her I’ll be there by one.” Elated Steve left his lawyer’s office and headed for Oscars.
“I’m against it Steve. Oscar sighed. But I suppose I can’t tell you what to do.”
“That’s right you can’t.” Steve sneered. “I have to pick him up at one. I’ll stop by afterward.”
“I’ll be anxious to see him again. You know Steve I know you feel you owe Donald. We all do. But maybe adoption isn’t the best route.”
“What are you saying?” Steve glared at him.
“Ok, ok well you do whatever. I can’t tell you again how much I’m against this. Oscar continued.”
“I’d like you to tell me why” Steve sat across from him.
“Steve you work for this agency…”
“What because I work for the government I can’t become a parent. What if I were married and my wife were expecting, then what?”
“This is a far different case and you know it” Oscar reminded.
“No I don’t think I see the difference” Steve scowled.
“Steve Donald has special needs what if he gets really attached to you, then I send you on a mission, how will the boy feel when you’re not around?”
“I’m going to hire a nanny. She’ll live with us and already be established so to speak. Don can rely on her.”
“Sounds like you have this all worked out” Oscar sighed.
Steve nodded. “I have to go. I’ll see you after I pick up Don.”
As Steve left Oscar picked up the phone and dialed Rudy’s office. “Rudy we need to talk.”
//////////////////////////////
As Steve pulled up in front of Mary Marks house it began to drizzle slightly.
“Hello Mrs. Mark.” Steve said when the foster mother opened the door.
“Col. Austin. Right on time she noted.” Donald is waiting for you.
Steve gave a smile “is he anxious to come with me?”
Mary thought for a moment. ‘As a matter of fact yes, Donald usually doesn’t like change but in this case he’s willing to accept it. Please come in and sit down. I just finished packing his things.”
Steve stepped into the front hall. “I can’t wait” he beamed.
I’m sure, by the way if the doorbell rings answer it. It will be Ella Martin. She has all the paper work for you, so you can take Donald home.”
Mary no sooner disappeared when the doorbell did ring. Steve reached over and answered it. “Hi Mrs. Martin, come on in. Mary just went to get Donald.”
“Very good, you are aware of Donald’s special problem right?”
Steve nodded. I know he’s autistic I’m just not all that sure what that means but I have a friend who’s a doctor he said he’d be willing to give me any information or assistance I might need.”
“That’s good. She handed Steve a large folder. This is Donald’s file. You can read it when ever you get a chance. Your friend may also want to look at it.”
“I’m sure he will. Thank you. Steve held the file in one hand.”
And this Ella handed him another folder This is the paper work saying you are now Donald’s legal guardian and that the adoption procedure is in place. It will take at least six months for everything to me complete.”
“It takes that long? Steve sighed.”
I’m afraid so.” They were interrupted when Mary appeared with Donald.
“Well hi Donald.” Steve greeted. “Are you ready to come home with me?”
Don nodded. “Yes, yes, yes Mr. Anderson I mean Mr. Austin.”
“Great I have your room all ready. I thought you could give me some ideas as to how to decorate it.”
Don just nodded
Mary handed Steve Dons suitcase. “Everything is in here. Oh don’t forget your sketch pad Donald.
“Sketch pad?” Steve questioned.
“Donald is quite the artist.” Mary smiled.
I see. Well why don’t you carry your sketch pad and Ill take the suitcase. How does that sound?
That, that, that sounds fine Mr. Austin” Don smiled.
“You can call me Steve if you want...or dad.” Steve smiled.
Donald merely shrugged as he followed Steve to the car.
/////////////////////////////////
“What did you want to see me about?” Rudy asked after he had poured himself a drink and was seated across from Oscar.
“It’s about Steve’s recent decision to adopt that boy.” Oscar began.
“I take it you against it.” Rudy took sip of his drink.
“Of course I am you’re not.” He glanced at Rudy.
“As a matter of fact yes I just don’t think it’s a good idea for Steve to do this.” Rudy sighed. “He asked my advice a while ago. I gave him the information I could on autistic children I was hoping that would dissuade him.”
“It didn’t?” Oscar asked.
Rudy shook his head. “He’s determined to do this.”
“Well maybe if the two of us talk to him” Oscar began.
“I don’t think that will do it.” Rudy sighed. “I don’t think he’ll listen to us.
“Well then we’ll have to find someone he will listen too.” Oscar thought.
“Who would that be?” Rudy wondered
“I don’t know right now, give me time. I’ll think of somebody.”
//////////////////////////////////////////
“I have a stop to make before we go to the house. You don’t mind do you?” Steve smiled at his new son.
“That’s ok.” Donald spoke softly. The drizzle had turned into a light rain so Steve turned the windshield wipers of the car on. Don began watching them swing back and forth.
“How about chicken for dinner?” Steve asked as asked as it began to rain harder.
Don didn’t respond he continued watching the windshield wipers.
“Did you hear me?” Steve glanced over at Donald.
“Twenty times” Don replied.
“What was that?” Steve asked.
“Twenty times” Don repeated.
What’s twenty times? Steve wondered
Don pointed to the windshield. “That. It comes to this side twenty times in a minute that would be 1,200 times an hour and 28,800 times a day. and 201,600 in a week and 1,497,600 times in a year.”
“No wonder they need to be replaced so often.” Steve muttered. He made a mental note to add that up with Rudy when they got to the OSI building.
When they arrived Steve took Don and headed straight for Rudy’s office. He was very curious to see if the numbers added up.
Rudy was sitting at his desk when they walked in, “hi Rudy” Steve began. “Are you busy?” Steve asked.
“Not really… just trying to look that way.” I take it this is Donald?
Steve nodded. Do me a favor Rudy. Steve gave Rudy the figures Donald had given him about the windshield wipers. Just tell me if he’s right.
Rudy got out a calculator and began punching the numbers in. He’s exactly right. Rudy proclaimed. Oscar wants to see us both down in his office. Lynda says she’ll watch Donald for you.”
“Yeah, sure ok” Steve explained everything to Donald and followed Rudy.
‘If you think you’re going to talk me out of this.” Steve began once they were sat down. “You’re wasting your time.”
“Steve, were just asking you to reconsider.” Oscar objected.
“This is what I want. I know what I’m getting into I’ve done a lot of reading and spoke at length to the foster mother. I know it’s not going to be easy at first but I think we’ll make it.”
Oscar threw up his hands. “I give up. I guess I can’t tell you how to live your life. I just thought I’d give it one last shot.”
“I think I better take Donald home. He needs to get used to his new home. Oscar, try not to call on me for a few weeks huh?”
“If you’re sure this is what you want.” Oscar agreed.
“It’s what I want. Steve turned and left Oscar’s office and headed for Rudy’s. Come on Donald we’re leaving.”
Don stood and followed Steve out of the room and down the hall.
“You gave up rather quickly.” Rudy noted.
“It just seems that way. Remember when I was talking about someone else talking to Steve?”
Rudy nodded
I’ve found someone. He reached for the phone and dialed. “Hello Cassie?” He spoke when his number three agent picked up the phone.
(2)
Rudy gave a slight nod.
“Yes Oscar” Cassie replied when she picked up the phone. “What can I do for you?” I just got back from a mission don’t tell me you have another one for me.
“As a matter of fact” Oscar gave a slight smile.
“Oh Oscar what is it? Cassie moaned. “Isn’t there another female agent who can do it?”
You’re the best one for the job…this job. Oscar explained the situation to Cassie.
“You really want me to convince Steve to not adopt this child?” Cassie could hardly believe what she was hearing. “Because if that’s the case I’m afraid you picked the wrong person.’
“Oh.” Oscar muttered. “I see.”
“Oscar I think that Steve is doing a wonderful thing. I have to say this ok. I think you’re just worried about how Steve’s becoming a parent is going to affect you.
Oscar sighed. “I suppose you’re right.”
“I won’t do this Oscar.” Cassie finished. Cassie hung up the phone and headed over to Steve’s house.
///////////////////////////////////////
Well Donald here we are. Steve pulled into the driveway.
“This, this, this is your house?” Donald asked.
“No. It’s our house son”. Steve smiled at him. “Come on in I’ll show you your room. I’ll take the suit case you just follow me. I thought you could give me some ideas on how you want to decorate it.”
“Planets” Donald looked around the room. “I like planets.”
“I like space myself.” Steve reached over and ruffled his hair. Donald shrank back.
“I’m sorry you don’t like that?” Steve asked.
Don shook his head.
“Well I guess we have to get time to know each other. Steve set the suit case down
Donald looked around the room. “Planets” he said again.
“Ok, planets it will be. Now what would you like for dinner?”
Donald thought for a moment. “Thursday, chicken.” He said.
“We can arrange that. What else…” He was interrupted when the doorbell rang. 8 to 5 its Oscar Steve thought to himself then turned to Donald. “Let’s see who that is.”
The two headed for the front door. Steve opened it. ‘Cassie! He cried. “When did you get back?”
“Just about an hour or so ago” Cassie smiled. “Oscar told me what you were doing, I think it’s wonderful,” Cassie looked down at Donald.
“Come on in.” Steve opened the door all the way. “Donald this is a friend of mine her name is Cassie.”
Donald ducked behind Steve. “He’s a little shy with new people.” Steve apologized.
“That’s ok. Well get to know each other.” Cassie smiled at the two of them.
“We were just about ready to get dinner started.” Steve. Cassie and Donald moved down the front hall. “Then we have to finish unpacking.”
“What are you having?” Cassie asked.
“Chicken” Steve told her.
“I’ll fix it if the two of you want to finish unpacking.” Cassie offered.
“That would be great. I have some in the freezer, just take it out and put it in the oven. It should be ready in about forty five minutes or so.”
“Are you sure?” She thought for a moment. “Oh its frozen chicken already made.”
“Yeah it’s in the freezer. I have to call Oscar I have a list of nannies I plan to interview in the next couple of days. I want to make sure they aren’t a security risk or anything.”
“I’ll get dinner going. You two go ahead. Cassie headed for the kitchen;” she decided not to tell Steve of her conversation with Oscar.
While Cassie got dinner going Steve headed for the phone. He picked up the receiver and dialed. Don watched as he punched in the numbers. “Oscar? It’s me Steve. I have that list from the agency…the one with the potential nannies.” Steve spoke into the mouth piece.
“Oh right. Just bring it by in the morning.” Oscar sounded preoccupied. ‘Just come on in anytime. I’ll have the background checks done.”
“First thing in the morning, Donald and I have some things to do.” Steve went on.
‘Oh you have him with you?” Oscar sounded disappointed.
“Of course I do. Cassie is here to.” Steve continued.
“Cassie?” Oscar questioned wondering if she had said anything about their conversation.
“Yeah she’s fixing dinner. I have to go. I’ll see you in the morning then.”
“Yeah sure Steve” Oscar hung up and concentrated on more important matters.
Steve joined Cassie and Donald in the kitchen. “Dinner will be a little while. Cassie smiled.”
“Thanks.” Steve replied. “Oscar said to stop by anytime.”
“Do you want me to give him the list?” Cassie asked.
“No, Don and I have some errands to run. I’ll drop it by first thing in the morning.”
////////////////////////////////////////////
The next morning Steve and Donald were up and around early. They got to Oscars office shortly after Oscar arrived.
“You should have had Donald a long time ago.” Oscar teased. “You never got here this early before even if I asked you to come in.”
“Ha, ha, ha” Steve smiled. “Anyway here’s that list I was telling you about.”
“Do you really think it’s a good idea bringing a stranger into the house I mean what if she hears something.”
“We just won’t talk in front of her…or Donald.” Steve assured.
“I suppose that would work.” Oscar agreed. “I still don’t think this is a good idea. But if its something you want?”
“I do want it Oscar.” Steve explained. “I don’t know there was something about that kid that I can’t explain it. And then when I found out he was living in a foster home I knew I had to have him as my son.”
‘I guess I understand.” They were interrupted when the phone rang. Donald watched as he picked up the phone.
“This is Oscar Goldman speaking. Yes Jaime he’s right here.” He handed the phone to Steve.
“Hi Jaime, how are you doing?” Steve asked.
“I’m fine. I was going to come out day after tomorrow so we can discuss plans for your parent’s anniversary.” Jaime began.
“That would be great. I have a big present for them.”
“What’s that?” Jaime asked.
“You remember the other day I told you that I was thinking of adopting Donald.”
“The adoption went through?” Jaime asked.
“It sure did so I guess mom and dad are grandparents now. You won’t say anything right?”
“Of course not, I’ll see you day after tomorrow.” Jaime assured.
“See you then.” Steve hung up the phone and handed the receiver to Oscar. “Thanks.”
“No problem. Now as I was saying”… The phone rang again once again Don watched carefully as Oscar reached for it
“This is Oscar Goldman speaking. He began again. Oh yes Mr. Secretary. I have right here.” He reached in his drawer and pulled out a file then tuned to Steve and Donald.
“Say Don I guess we better go.” Steve laid the list on Oscar’s desk and they headed out the door.
“Well are you ready?” Steve asked as he and Donald go into the car.
Don nodded.
They were just getting ready to pull out of the parking lot when a car pulled up next to them and honked. “Hey Steve, hi Donald” Cassie called out.
“Hi Cass” Steve smiled. “Donald and I were just on our way to the department store. Do you want to join us?”
“That’s why I’m here.” Cassie got into the car.
“You don’t mind do you Donald?” Steve asked.
Don shook his head.
“Ok then.” Steve pulled out into traffic and the three headed out.
You know Steve you might not need to hire a nanny.” Cassie began. “I wouldn’t mind watching Donald while you’re working for Oscar.”
“I can’t ask you to do that, besides what happens if we are both called away at the same time or on the same mission?”
“That’s pretty rare.” Cassie stated “and besides, Rudy could watch him if that would be the case. Donald is already getting used to me. I think it could work. We could try it anyway. If it doesn’t work then you could think about hiring a nanny.”
Steve nodded “I suppose you’re right.”
“I know I am. I would love to help you take care of Donald.” Cassie finished.
“Well then I guess we’ll give it a try.” Steve agreed.
“Well now that that’s settled, where are we off to?”
“Well Donald wants to decorate his room with space” Steve told her
“Oh and you didn’t have anything to do with that?” Cassie teased.
“As a matter of fact it was Don’s idea.” Steve told her.
///////////////////////////////////////
At the OSI Oscar and Rudy were talking in Rudy’s office when Lynda walked in and told Oscar he had a visitor in his office.
“I wonder who that could be.” Oscar stood and looked at Rudy
“I wouldn’t know. Want me to come with you?”
“I think I can handle it.” Oscar muttered as he headed for the door. He walked down the hall to his office.
He opened the door to his outer office ready to ask Callahan who was waiting for him only to discover she was gone. Mystified he walked over to his inner office door and opened it. “Well I should have known” Oscar greeted his guest who was sitting behind his desk. “Hanson what the heck do you want?”
(3)
“And hello to you to.” Hanson stood and greeted Oscar.
“I asked you what you wanted.” Oscar seethed through clenched teeth.
“Nothing major, I need to borrow one of you agents for and international mission.” Hanson began
“What’s wrong with your own agents? Has the NSB run out?” Oscar fumed.
“On the contrary, this mission requires a very special touch. A bionic touch if you get my meaning.” Hanson explained.
“Col. Austin is not available.” Oscar spat.
“I’m sorry to hear that is he currently on an assignment?” Hanson pressed.
“That Hanson is none of your business.” Oscar was practically shouting. “By the way what have you done with my secretary?”
“Callahan? She’s fine. I sent her on a little errand. I didn’t want her to forewarn you that I was here…. now about Col. Austin?”
“That figures”. Oscar muttered. “I told you already Austin is not available for a mission right now it’s uh personal.” Oscar explained.
“Personal?” Hanson questioned. “How personal, is it medical?”
“No, no nothing like that”. Oscar hedged.
“Well then exactly what is it Goldman. I come here asking your help and I’m being treated like a grade two what gives?”
“Steve is in the process of adopting a child…. a young boy who helped him out on a mission, a while back.”
“A child helped Austin?” Hanson sounded skeptical.
“It’s a long story but Austin was locked in a freezer…”
“A freezer?” Hanson still sounded as if he didn’t believe Oscar
“The extreme cold shuts down the bionic power. I’m not exactly sure why. For that you would have to speak to Rudy Wells.”
“Go on!” Hanson demanded.
“Anyway this boy…Donald knew the combination. He got the door opened for us and the rest is history.”
“So you mean to tell me that I have to put one of my missions on hold so Austin can play daddy to some little brat?” Hansons temper rose.
“What Col. Austin does in his personal life is not my business.” Oscar shouted.
“Unless it interferes with his work” Hanson quickly added.
“Get out of my office!” Oscar seethed.
“Fine I’ll just find Austin myself.” Hanson stormed out of Oscar’s office slamming the door behind him.
“I better warn Steve.” Oscar picked up the phone and dialed Steve’s house. There was no answer. Then he tried the car phone …still no answer.
/////////////////////////////////
Steve Cassie and Donald finished up there shopping and stopped for lunch.
“Well.” Cassie commented. “We got a lot done, didn’t we?”
Steve nodded. “We sure did. I’ll hire a paper hanger tomorrow. I just hope it’s done before my parents come. They are having their anniversary in a couple of weeks. I told them to come out here. Of course that was before I knew I was going to adopt Donald here but they are coming out.”
“That’s great. I think I remember you saying something about that before I left on that last mission.”
Again Steve nodded. “I think I did. Jaime is coming out tomorrow sometime I think to help us plan things out. Maybe the two of you can come up with some ideas.”
“I’d love to help.” Cassie remarked.
The waiter came to take their order. Steve and Cassie continued talking.
/////////////////////////////////
“I don’t care how you find him!” Hanson shouted at two of his men. “You find him and then let me know. Austin has to understand work takes over everything. Especially some little snot nosed kid.”
“Well find him.” The agents assured.
“You have three hours. If you don’t find him by then I strongly suggest you don’t come back here and seek other employment!!” Hanson barked.
“Yes sir.” The agents had a slight quiver in their voices.
“Start with his house.” Hanson sounded calmer.
“Yes sir.” The agents replied once again as th1ey left their boss office.
Hanson continued to storm around his office. He barked orders to everyone.
///////////////////////////////////////
Again Oscar slammed his phone down “dam!” He swore just as Rudy walked into his office.
“What’s the matter?” Rudy asked.
“Oh it’s Hanson. He wants to use Steve for a mission he says he’ll stop at nothing to get him to go. I’m trying to warn him.”
“I take it you’re not having any luck.” Rudy sat in one of the chairs in front of Oscar’s desk
Oscar shook his head. “I’m afraid not.”
“I think he and Cassie are still out shopping.” Rudy surmised.
“I’m sure you’re right.” Oscar sighed as he reached to dial Steve once again.
/////////////////////////
After lunch Steve dropped Cassie off back at the OSI so she could go home “Are you sure you don’t want me to stop by?” Cassie asked.
After some thought Steve turned back to here “If you want you can come by for dinner, only this time I’m doing the cooking.”
“I’ll be there around six then.” Cassie promised.
“Sounds good, Donald and I will have things all ready. Right? Steve turned to the back seat. Don was staring at his watch.
“Its…its…its two o’clock now that’s four hours and two hundred and forty minutes Don thought some more then 26 thousand 400 seconds.”
Steve and Cassie stared at Donald.
“Is he right?” Cassie asked.
Steve shrugged. “He was before.”
“I don’t get it.” Cassie continued to stare at Donald.
“He’s got this thing with numbers.” Steve smiled.
“Well ok then. I’ll see you at…uh later.
“Yea right” Steve pulled out of the parking lot and headed home.
They arrived at the house and the two got out of the car and headed inside. “I left something in the car.” Steve said. “Why don’t you go to your room, make sure it’s ready for company. I’ll be right back.”
Steve headed outside and Donald started for his room when the phone rang. Don picked it up.
“Hello.” He spoke
“Steve?” Oscar asked.
No…no…no its Donald” Don responded.
“Where’s Steve?” Oscar asked.
“He’s coming.” Don answered.
“Ok then I’ll just hang on. Tell him I’m on the phone.” Oscar’s patients were wearing thing.
“I will.” Don set the phone down on the desk and started for the door to tell Steve he had a phone call. Steve was just coming in.
“How does your room…”
“The phone is for you.” Donald told him
“Oh? Who is it? Steve wondered.
Your friend, Mr. Speaking” Don stated.
“Mr. Speaking?” Steve repeated. “I don’t know anyone by that name.” Steve headed for the phone and lifted the receiver. “Mr. Speaking?” Steve asked.
“No it’s me Oscar.” Oscar was in no moods for games but Steve couldn’t help bursting out laughing.
“What’s so funny? Oscar snorted.
“Don told me my friend Mr. Speaking was on the phone.” Steve got control over himself. “You know how when you answer the phone you always say Oscar Goldman speaking? Well Don thinks speaking is your last name.”
“Steve this is serious. Oscar ignored the situation.” Hanson was in my office just a few…”
“Hanson, what does he want?” Steve sounded annoyed.
“He wants you for a mission.” Oscar started.
“I work for the OSI. Not the NSB.” Steve reminded.
“I told him it wasn’t possible. He said he would find you himself and make you go.”
“I’ll take care of it Oscar. Thanks for the heads up.” Steve hung up the phone and turned to Don. Now about your room…”
“I..I...I’m going.” Don headed down the hall.
Steve had just gotten to the kitchen when the doorbell rang. “Cassie’ Steve muttered. you just can’t help yourself can you?” Steve smiled to himself. He headed for the front door and opened it. “Hanson. What do you want?”
“I’m sure Goldman has already told you.” Hanson snarled. “I need you to take care of something for me.”
“I’m busy!” Steve turned away from him.
“Let’s go Austin.” Hanson pulled out his revolver.
“Come on Hanson.” Steve glanced back at him.
“I mean it Austin lets go.” Hanson ordered.
“Not right now.” Steve faced him. “I have other things I’m doing.”
“We’ll take care of your kid. This won’t take long.” Hanson moved toward Steve. As he moved forward he stumbled over his own feet. When he tripped the gun went off the bullet striking Steve in the chest
(4)
At the sound of the gun firing Hanson’s aide ran headlong into Steve’s house. “What happened boss?” The aide asked.
“It went off by accident.” Hanson’s voice trembled. “I didn’t mean it. I was only using the gun to scare Austin.”
“We better call for help.” The aide suggested.
“We can’t. Goldman will never believe it was an accident” Hanson grabbed his aide and pulled him out the front door.
Donald had watched the entire scene play out, he walked passed Steve who was lying on the floor. He peered out the window and watched as Hanson pulled away. Then he went and sat on the floor next to Steve.
////////////////////////////////////////
“I’m on my way over there now Oscar.” Cassie spoke into the phone. “I don’t like Hanson at all nor do I trust him.”
“I don’t know if Hanson made contact, I spoke to him a while ago. He said he stopped at Steve’s, rang the bell and didn’t get an answer.”
“I’ll check it out.” Cassie assured.
“Thanks Cassie.” Oscar breathed a sigh of relief and hung up. “Cassie is going to check everything out.” He nodded to Rudy.
“Good. Now will you relax?”
Oscar nodded.
/////////////////////////////////////////
Cassie pulled up in front of Steve’s house. Jaime pulled up right behind her. “Hi Cassie how are you?” Jaime asked.
“I’m fine. When did you get to DC?” Cassie wondered
“Just a while back I tried to call Steve when I got here, but no one answered. He said he would be here.”
“Oscar suspects Hanson took him” Cassie explained. Hanson wanted to use Steve on a mission and Oscar denied him.
“We better check it out.” Jaime suggested. The two women headed up the porch steps. Do you have a spare key? Jaime turned to Cassie.
“As a matter of fact” Cassie pulled the key out of her purse.
“Good I won’t have to break down the door. Jaime sighed. And I’m sure Steve wouldn’t like it very well.”
“I’m sure he wouldn’t” Cassie laughed as she unlocked the door and the two women walked into the house. The sight that awaited them shocked them both Steve lying unconscious on the floor, blood flowing from the wound in his chest with Donald sitting beside him.
“Cassie you take Donald. I’ll call Rudy!” Jaime ordered. “I think Donald knows you better than me and from what Steve has said…”
“Say no more. Cassie interrupted. She reached down and helped Donald to his feet. “Come on honey.”
Jaime ran to the phone and dialed Rudy. “Rudy this is Jaime send an ambulance to Steve’s house.”
“What’s wrong?” Rudy asked.
“Steve’s been shot”. Jaime told him.
“I’m on my way!” He stopped long enough to tell Oscar where he was going.
“I’ll meet you at national.” Oscar stood and headed out of his office.
He arrived at the hospital at the same time as Jaime, Cassie and Donald. “How is he?” Oscar asked.
“We don’t know.” Jaime started for the hospitals main entrance. “Rudy took him in the ambulance we came in the car.”
The four stood at the elevator. Oscar pressed the button. “What happened?” Oscar asked as they waited.
“I don’t know.” Cassie sniffed. “Jaime and I got to Steve’s at the same time. When we walked in we found Steve on the floor.”
The elevator arrived and they all stepped on. “I just can’t believe this.” Oscar continued. “Did you two see anything?” Oscar looked from Cassie to Jaime.
Both women shook their heads. “Do you think we’d be standing around here if that were the case?” Jaime scolded.
“I guess you’re right.” The elevator stopped and they all stepped off. The four headed down the hall to toward the Bionics section. The guard at the door snapped to attention when they saw Oscar Goldman.
“I’m sorry sir.” One of the guards spoke up “the boy?”
“He’s Col. Austin’s adopted son.” Oscar explained.
“Yes sir.” The guard replied as he stood aside to allow them all to pass.
They entered the bionics section. Oscar looked up and down the hall. “I don’t see Rudy. He must be in surgery with Steve.”
“Let’s wait in his office.” Cassie suggested.
They opened the door and stepped inside. They were all on their third cup of coffee when Rudy entered the room.
“Good you’re all here.” Rudy exclaimed when he saw they were all there.
How’s Steve?” They all asked.
“Not very good” Rudy sighed.
“Tell us.” Oscar demanded.
“The bullet ripped through Steve’s chest. It punctured the heart and damaged the lungs.” Rudy explained.
“How bad is the damage?” Cassie’s voice quavered.
“It’s bad.” Rudy shook his head. “Right now the bullet is still in the heart”
“What?” Oscar shouted.
“I can’t remove it right now. I’ve repaired some of the damage. Steve just isn’t strong enough to be in surgery that long.”
“So what are you going to do?” Jaime asked.
“We’re going to let it stand as is for now. Till Steve is strong enough to withstand another operation” Rudy sat down behind his desk.
“When will that be?” Oscar asked.
“I don’t really know.” Rudy sighed.
“More than a week?” Oscar pressed. “Rudy he has to tell us who did this to him. We need to question him.”
“I don’t know if we’ll ever get that chance.” Rudy continued.
“I know he saw who did this to him.” Oscar muttered.
“I know” Rudy looked around the room. “Did you ask Donald?”
Oscar shook his head “I don’t think he’s a very reliable witness.” Oscar tried to explain.
“What do you mean?” Rudy wondered.
“Well for starters he thinks my name is Speaking.” Oscar began.
“We could give it a try.” Rudy walked over to where Donald sat.
“Hi Donald” Rudy sat next to him. “I’m Dr. Wells, I’m a friend of Steve’s Do you know what’s going on?”
Donald stared blankly into space but after several minutes nodded slightly.
“Now Donald, this is important. Did you see who did this?” Rudy continued.
Again Donald stared off into space but gave a slight nod.
“Can you tell us?” Rudy pressed.
Donald shook his head. He ran over to a corner of the room and sat.
“He obviously saw what happened.” Rudy turned to all in the room. “But it was very traumatic it would be traumatic for a normal child… but for someone like Donald. It can cause him regress.” Rudy explained.
“What do we do?” Jaime asked.
“We have to try and see if we can get him to tell us but that’s easier said than done.” Rudy noted.
“He’s already shut down.” Cassie whispered.
“What was that Cassie?” Rudy asked.
“I’ve seen him before this Rudy. I know what he was like.” Cassie walked over to him. Don wouldn’t even look at her. “What can we do for him?”
“Just try to bring him back.” Rudy stated. “I don’t know if that’s going to be possible but we have to try.”
“I think I better take him back to Steve’s.” Cassie suggested. “Get him back to normal.”
“I think that might help.” Rudy agreed.
“You’re going to have to be careful though.” Oscar warned “the house is being treated as a crime scene.”
“We know what to do.” Jaime assured. “She turned to Cassie. Should we go?”
Cassie nodded. “Come on Donald.” Cassie took his hand and then turned to Jaime. “Do you want to help?”
Jaime nodded. “There’s nothing more we can do here?” She turned to Rudy.
Rudy shook his head. “No Steve is sleeping. I’m sure he’ll stay that way. Take Don home. Try to get him to respond to you.”
//////////////////////////////////////////
Cassie, Jaime and Donald arrived back at Steve’s house. Technicians from the NSB the OSI and the FBI were all over the place.
“There’s Hanson.” Jaime said. “Let’s ask him how the investigation is going.”
Cassie nodded and the two women approached Hanson. “Any leads yet?” Cassie asked.
“Not yet.” Hanson turned toward the three. “We’re working on it though.”
At the sight of Hanson, Donald let out a scream and ran for his room.
“You talk to him Jaime, I’ll see what’s wrong with Donald.” Cassie said
Cassie followed Don to his room “what is it honey. She soothed.
Donald sat on his bed rocking back and forth.
“Come on sweetie you can tell me.” Cassie tried to calm the frightened boy.
Without looking at Cassie Donald screamed “It was him!!! Oh Miss Cassie it was him.” Donald rolled over on the bed and refused to speak anymore.
Jaime had heard the entire conversation and came running to the hallway were Cassie had just closed Don’s bedroom door. “You heard?”
Jaime nodded “I’ll call Oscar. She went for the phone and dialed Oscar’s number. She told him Donald had opened up and that Hanson was the one who had shot Steve.
“That’s good news. Oscar’s voce was heavy
“Oscar, what’s wrong?” Jaime asked.
“It’s Steve. Rudy says he’s in a coma. Rudy’s not certain he’ll ever wake up….”
