Post by S. Austin61 (Goldman74) on Aug 17, 2009 21:46:22 GMT -4
Obsticals and road blocks continuation. Jack Hanson enlists the aid of an old nemisis to get his revenge on Steve.
NO MORE ROAD BLOCKS
“…When did this happen?” Oscar shouted into the phone startling Steve and Rudy who were sitting in the leather chairs on the other side of Oscar’s desk.
“…Yes…yes. I appreciate your call, thanks.” Oscar slammed the phone down.
“What gives?” Steve asked.
“That was Ben Conner from the FBI.” Oscar remained seated he turned to Steve. “He headed the investigation that led to the arrest of Jack Hanson for shooting you last year…remember.”
Steve nodded. He still didn’t remember Hanson shooting him…but he remembered the events afterwards.
“Well Ben just informed me that Hanson was released from prison yesterday…”
“I thought he was to serve at least five years.” Rudy interrupted.
“So did I, he got time off for good behavior….”
“Good behavior…Hanson?” Steve questioned.
“Hard to believe huh” Oscar fumed.
“Anyway, so he’s out?” Steve redirected the conversation back to where it had started.
Oscar nodded. “Ben says yesterday…where are Cassie, Sara and Donald?” Oscar asked concern for Steve’s family rising in his voice especially Steve and Cassie’s one month old daughter Sara.
“Don is in School of course, and Cassie said she was taking Sara to do some light shopping. We needed some things for dinner…I offered to get them…but Cassie said she wanted to get out of the house.”
“Do you know where she might be shopping?” Oscar asked. Steve could tell by his tone that it was more serious than he thought.
“I’ll call the house…see if she’s left yet.” Steve picked up the phone and called his house. He was relieved when Cassie answered.
“Hello.” She sounded out of breath.
“Cassie it’s Steve…is everything ok.” He too was now concerned about the well being of his family.
“Yes…I’m fine. I’m just trying to get out of the house.” Cassie sounded agitated.
“Well I’d rather you didn’t.” Steve mustered up the courage to tell her about Hanson.
“Why not?” she demanded.
“Hanson was released from prison yesterday…good behavior.” Steve told her.
“Good behavior…Hanson doesn’t have an ounce of good in him.” Cassie hissed. “Steve I’ve been pinned up for three weeks now…I want to get out of the house.”
“I’ll come home…we’ll go together.” Steve offered.
Cassie weighed her options…Hanson though he had been to prison for trying to kill Steve was still a very powerful man in DC. The police listened…or had listened to him in the past. “Ok Steve, I’ll wait for you.” She assured.
Steve left Oscar’s office and headed down to his car. He jumped in and raced all the way home Cassie was waiting on the porch for him.
“I called the school. I told them to not let Donald go with anyone but us or Russ.” Cassie said as she slid into the seat next to Steve.
“Where’s Sara?” Steve was perplexed that she didn’t have the baby with her.
“Laurie next door is watching her. “I told her to keep the bassinet in the living room and to not answer the door or phone. I figured if anyone we knew called…didn’t get an answer they would try back later. I figured we’d pick Donald up as soon as we finished at the store.”
“Good idea.” Steve agreed. “You think pretty fast.” Steve was pleased that Cassie had taken matters into her own hands to help in protecting her family. “Now what do we want for dinner?”
“In view of all that’s going on…I say we have something simple so we can get Donald upstairs and away from the conversation as soon as possible.”
“That sounds good. I mean Sara I don’t mind talking around a whole lot…she doesn’t talk yet, but in a few months we won’t be able to do that either.” Steve said.
Cassie nodded.
“What store did you want to go to?’ Steve asked as he pulled the car into traffic.
“Dillon’s” They are having a sale on all meats. I figured we’d just have hamburgers.” Cassie watched as Steve weaved in and out of traffic.
Steve nodded. “Dillon’s it is then.”
///////////////////////////
In a hotel across town Hanson sat with two men. “I understand we have the same enemy.” Hanson began.
“That we do.” The first man nodded. “But how can we trust you…you work for the NSB.” He reminded.
“I used to work for the NSB…right now…no agency would hire me for nothing.” Hanson told them.”
“How do we know this isn’t a set up?” The second man asked.
“Trust me…I want Austin just as much as you do.” Hanson smirked.
The two men looked at each other. “Should we trust him Dolenz.” The first man asked.
Dolenz nodded. “I think we can Yuri”
“I hope so.” Yuri Zimmer fidgeted in his seat. “My government wants him too.”
“There will be enough to go around.” Hanson assured. “I know you are both interested in the concept of bionics…I’m just interested in seeing Austin dead and maybe that little brat of his as well.”
“Little brat?” Dolenz questioned.
“His son…his adopted son I accidently shot Austin a year ago. It was an accident. I was trying to get him to take care of some business for me…he refused. I only threatened him with the gun, I didn’t mean for it to go off…but would the judge listen to me…no he listened to that snot nosed kid of his.”
“I understand your feelings.” Yuri spoke. He turned to Dolenz. I suppose we will have to cooperate…you know…my government is always looking for good scientists…you could come work for us…we will take care of everything you need.”
Dolenz thought for a moment. “I might consider that.” He smiled at Yuri.
“Sounds like you two are getting along. Now we have to plan a way of getting Austin.” Hanson sneered.
“You said he has children?” Dolenz prompted.
Hanson nodded.
“Maybe we could use that to our advantage.” Dolenz smirked.
/////////////////////////////////////////
At the store Cassie flew around getting everything she thought she might need should they be confined to the house for several days. She grabbed a case of formula for the baby along with two packages of diapers. Then she grabbed up a lot of the snack food Donald liked to munch on.
“This isn’t going to be easy.” She said to Steve as they waited in line…their cart full of provisions. “You know how Donald hates his routine disrupted.”
Steve nodded. “He’ll just have to deal with it. We’ll find some things to occupy his time.”
“I guess you’re right.” She glanced down at her watch. “We should get to the school just in time to pick Donald up.”
Steve grabbed the bag of groceries and they headed for the car. “Did we really need all this stuff?” He asked.
“I don’t know. I don’t know if this is going to keep us confined to the house or not.” Cassie reminded.
“I suppose you’re right. As soon as we get home I’m calling Oscar to see if he’s heard anymore.” Steve stated.
“Good idea.” she agreed.
Again Steve pulled the car into traffic and they headed for Donald’s school.
“I just hate this line up.” Cassie complained as they joined the line of cars waiting to pick up children. “I just want to get Donald and go.”
“Yeah, I know.” Steve reached for his car phone.
“Who are you calling?” Cassie asked.
“Russ, I’ll tell him we’re here and to not worry.”
Cassie nodded. “Call the house too, see if Laurie and the baby are alright.”
“That was second on my list.” Steve assured her.
Cassie watched as Steve first called Russ and told him they were at the school, then he called the house.
After several rings he hung up. He turned to Cassie “You told her not to answer the phone…”
“Oh yeah, that’s right. Sorry about that”
///////////////////////////////////
“So, when do we move?” Yuri was getting restless.
“I want Austin to feel secure and let his guard down.” Hanson explained.
“What do you mean?” Dolenz sounded irritated.
“He knows I’m out of prison…I’m sure they called Goldman…and Goldman called Austin. For some time now Steve is going to be on high alert…I’m sure he won’t let the kids out of his sight…and they are our sitting ducks so to speak. No gentlemen…we must proceed slowly with this one.”
Yuri and Dolenz exchanged glances.
“If you don’t do it my way….” Hanson threatened “I still have friends in high places who…though they won’t hire me…they would listen to me if I told them a Russian scientist and Jeffery Dolenz had approached me about helping them lure Austin to his death…I know they would listen to me. So you see…it’s my way or…”
Dolanz and Yuri knew Hanson had them. “Alright you’re in charge, but we want Austin…and we want him fast.”
Hanson nodded. “I understand but you see we must catch him off guard.”
////////////////////////////////////
Cassie and Steve arrived home with Donald and the groceries. Steve watched as Laurie walked next door to her house.
She had reported nothing out of the ordinary happening.
Cassie went about making dinner for the family. ‘I wonder how long we’ll have to be on the lookout?’ She said to herself.
“Don’t worry, I talked to Oscar” Steve stepped out in the kitchen where she was started frying the hamburgers. “Oscar seems to think everything is under control. He hasn’t heard anything from Hanson at all.”
“Well that’s good…maybe this won’t be so bad after all. Maybe Hanson has decided to go on his marry way.” Cassie turned the hamburgers over.
“Let’s hope so.” Steve smiled at her.
////////////////////////////////////
Across the street Hanson…Dolenz and Yuri sat listening to the conversation....
(2)
“…I don’t see why you need to keep your family confined any longer.” Oscar said a month later. “The way I’ve heard it Hanson isn’t even in town anymore. He left a week after he was released from prison.”
“I heard that too.” Steve nodded. “I guess it’s safe.”
“I don’t see why it wouldn’t be.” Oscar said. “In fact I have a mission for you. Cassie and the children will be fine.”
Steve was reluctant to go. He called Cassie.
“…Well I guess if Oscar says it’s safe.” Cassie finally said.
“I’ll tell him to make sure Russ drives by a couple of times a day just to be on the safe side. Oscar says Hanson isn’t even in town anymore.” Steve finished.
“Well if that’s the case I think you should take the mission.” Cassie agreed.
They hung up and Steve turned to Oscar. “I meant what I said to Jaime. I want Russ to stop by a couple of time during the day. I know Cassie is an experienced agent…but I don’t trust Hanson.”
“I know what you mean. Don’t worry; we’ll take care of Cassie and the kids.” Oscar assured.
“See to it that you do.” Steve grumbled as he headed for the door.
“Where are you going?” Oscar asked.
“I’m going home to say good-bye to Cassie and my kids.” Steve told him.
Oscar nodded. “Yes, of course I didn’t even think.”
“That’s one of your biggest problems.” Steve muttered as he left Oscar’s office and headed down the hall.
////////////////////////////
At home Cassie and the kids were waiting for him. “Oscar called; he said you were on your way to say good-bye before you left.” Cassie spoke.
“I really don’t want to go.” Steve moaned, “but I suppose I have no choice.”
“We’ll be fine.” Cassie assured.
“You don’t mind my going then…just say the word Cassie and I’ll call Oscar.”
/////////////////////////////////
At a small airstrip in Bethesda Hanson’s plane touched down. Dolenz and Yuri stood waiting for him.
“Thanks for picking me up.” Hanson stated. “I appreciate it.”
“Are we ready to move?” Yuri complained. “My people are growing impatient.
“Yes we are ready to move. My contact at the OSI tells me Austin is leaving today for a mission. That means they have finally let their guard down.” Hanson informed.
“Where is this mission?” Yuri demanded.
“I don’t know…and I don’t care. We now have access to his family…that’s where I wanted to start.” Hanson shot back.
“So what do we do now?” Dolenz wanted to know.
“We wait for Austin to leave, then we move in on his family. I have plans…I have big plans especially for that little brat who sent me to prison for a year. It wasn’t easy getting out either.” Hanson went on. “I had to do a lot of bribing and pay a lot of money to get out as early as I did.” Hanson added.
“I don’t see what that has to do with anything.” Yuri sneered.
“It doesn’t” Hanson muttered. I was just rambling. But with Austin out of DC for however long he’s going to be….we have time to do a lot of damage… like I said, especially to that kid.”
“What do you have against the boy?” Dolenz asked.
“He sent me to prison…I told you that.” Hanson was growing angry. “I knew if I were to leave the city that they would eventually let their guard down. I have a friend to Kansas who will use my bank card…and credit cards…that way it will look like I’m still in Kansas.” Hanson smiled. “I have plenty of money to get me through.”
“Very clever” Dolenz seemed somewhat impressed. “I don’t even think Goldman knows I’m out of prison.”
“He doesn’t even know me.” Yuri added.
Hanson and Dolenz nodded.
“Now” Hanson began “we go back to the City and wait for Austin’s wife to let her guard down for just a bit.” He caught the look between Dolenz and Yuri. “I’m sure she’ll keep those kids close for a while.”
///////////////////////////////////
“Of course I mind.” Cassie told him… “But we’ll be fine.”
Steve headed upstairs to pack a few things he would need for the mission, then he came back down. “If you have any problems…any problems at all call Oscar.” Steve ordered.
“I will don’t worry. Try to get back as soon as you can. I’m not going to ask where you’re going cause I know you can’t tell me anyway…”
“Oscar will have all of that information.” Steve kissed her and Sara, then he patted Donald on the back. “You’re the man of the house…you take care of your mom and sister…”
“I will.” Donald assured.
Cassie and the kids watched as Steve headed down the porch steps and out to Oscar who was waiting in the car.
“I hate to deceive them that way.” Steve sighed as he sat next to Oscar. “I feel like I’m cheating on her or something.”
“You want to bring Hanson out of the woodwork don’t you?” Oscar asked.
Steve nodded.
“Then this is the only way.” Oscar explained. “I found out we have an informant…I guess if you’re on any mission it’s to expose him/her.” Oscar stated. “I had to ‘send you on a mission’ from within the OSI hoping the informant would contact Hanson…”
“And did they?” Steve wondered.
Oscar shrugged. “We’ll know soon enough. Russ is keeping a constant watch on Cassie and the kids. If Hanson is going to make a move…it will be against them first.”
“I suppose you’re right…I just wish I could have explained it to Cassie …”
“We’re pretty sure that your house is bugged.” Oscar told him.
“You mentioned that. We had to make it look good…I guess…I just hope we didn’t make it look too good.” Steve muttered.
“I see you’re point.” Oscar sighed. “Don’t worry; we won’t let Cassie or the kids out of our sight.”
“And I’ll stay at the OSI…until something happens?” Steve asked looking at Oscar who simply nodded.
////////////////////////////
In the house across from Steve and Cassie, Hanson looked out the window as the car pulled away. “See, I told you if we were just patient…”
“Austin is leaving?” Yuri asked.
“He’s leaving.” Hanson smirked “I always thought Goldman was smarter than that.”
Yuri and Dolenz headed for the front door of the house.
“Where are you going?” Hanson demanded.
“To get Austin’s wife and kids” Dolenz shouted.
“Not just yet.” Hanson stopped them. “I need to hear from my informant that Austin is indeed gone.”
“We have waited long enough.” Yuri snapped.
“I’m asking for one more day” Hanson pleaded. He didn’t know how much longer he could hold them off, he wished now that he was in this alone. But if he were going to pull this off he had to have someone helping…someone whom Donald didn’t know.
“One more day” Dolenz repeated. “Alright Hanson, we’ll give you one more day. But after that, Austin is ours. I don’t really care what you do.”
“We’ll get Donald first thing tomorrow…that is if my people tell me Austin is indeed out of the country. Otherwise…we can’t risk it.”
Yuri and Dolenz looked at one another.
“Don’t worry” Hanson smiled. “Austin will be well on his way and I’ll teach that brat a couple of things about his father.”
“Is that all you want?” Yuri asked. “Is all you want the kid?”
“Of course not I want Austin too. I just want the little monster to suffer first.”
Again the two men looked at each other.
‘I can’t wait till this is over’ Hanson thought ‘of course my next hurdle is deciding which of you to kill first once I get what I want out of you.’
“We’ll go along with you this last time.” Dolenz threatened. After that…you’re on your own, we’ll take Austin’s wife. I’m sure he’d cooperate if she were in danger.
////////////////////////////////////////
“Ok Donald.” Cassie put one arm around him while the other she cradled the baby. “Why don’t we see what we want to do for dinner? What would you like? How about something simple like grilled cheese?”
“I like that.” Donald watched the house across the street. “I didn’t know we had neighbors.”
Cassie looked across and saw people moving around. “Neither did I” she muttered. “Come on Donald we’ll get dinner going.”
Don followed her into the house and closed the door.
//////////////////////////////
The next afternoon Dolenz and Hanson sat outside Donald’s school. They were waiting for the boy to come out.
“We’ll know soon enough.” Hanson rubbed his hands together.
“What do you mean?” Dolenz asked.
“If young Donald starts to walk home by himself…we’ll know that they don’t suspect a thing…however if someone is here to pick him up…or follows him home…we’ll know they are on to us.”
They both perked up when the bell rang and children tumbled out of the building. “There he is.” Hanson pointed to Donald. “Now we follow him home.”
They followed Donald till he was about a two blocks from home. They carefully checked to make sure no was watching or following them. Hanson pulled a little ahead of him then he stopped the car. “Ok Dolenz, you’re up.”
“What do you mean?” Dolenz snapped.
Hanson glared at him; “He knows me you idiot.” Hanson practically shouted. “Come on we have to get him before he gets home.”
Dolenz jumped out of the car. “Hello there my boy” Dolenz greeted “is your name Donald Austin?”
Don nodded
“I have a message from your father he sent me to pick you up and bring you to him.”
Don nodded and followed Dolenz to the car. Slowly he slid into the back seat…
(3)
For the fourth time in as many minutes Steve glanced at his watch. “Come on Oscar he should be home by now. Call Cassie and make sure Donald got home from school.”
Oscar looked at his watch. “Ok pal, just calm down.” He picked up the phone and dialed Steve’s number. “Cassie, its Oscar, I just wanted to make sure Donald made it home from school.”
“He’s not home yet Oscar…sometimes he stays after and helps his teacher feed Ralph.” Cassie told him
“Who’s Ralph?” Oscar asked.
“He’s the class pet…a rabbit. Don loves him. In fact Steve and I have thought about getting Donald a pet.”
“If he’s not home in the next twenty minutes…call me back.” Oscar ordered.
“Oscar. I thought you said everything was fine.” Cassie pulled Sara close to her.
Steve grabbed the phone from Oscar “Cassie it’s me…”
“Steve?” she gasped. “I thought you were on a mission…”
“This is the mission. We were hoping if Hanson thought I was out of the picture so to speak…he would make his move…he very well might have. I’m on my way. I’ll go to the school first then drive the path Don takes.”
//////////////////////////////
Donald screamed when he saw who was behind the wheel. He frantically grabbed the door handle to try and get out of the car.
“For g*d sake Dolenz, can’t you control that kid?” Hanson shouted.
Dolenz tightened his grip on Donald. “Just get us out of here!” Dolenz shouted back “We’re not going back to the house are we?” Dolenz wondered “I mean the boy lives across the street…”
“Do you think I’m a fool?” Hanson continued to shout.
“Of course not, but what about Yuri?” Dolenz wondered.
“I’ll go get him later tonight.” Hanson smirked.
“So where are we going now?” Dolenz questioned as he still held Don in his grip.
“We have a new hide out.” Hanson laughed as he sped down the street.
////////////////////////////////
“Ok Steve. I’m staying right here with Sara.” Cassie told him.
“Good idea.” Steve hung up and he raced out of Oscar’s office with Oscar close behind.
Steve first drove to the school. He went up to Don’s room. “Hi Mr. Thomas” he smiled.
“Well hello Col. Austin.” Mr. Thomas looked up from his desk. “Donald left some time ago.”
“Did he help feed Ralph tonight?” Steve hoped.
Mr. Thomas shook his head. “I’m afraid not. The other children wanted to feed Ralph too. I had to start drawing names…”
“How did Don take that?” Steve was concerned for his son who he knew didn’t accept change very well.
“I did it very gradually; I’ve had autistic children in my class before.” Mr. Thomas smiled. “Don seems fine with it.”
“Well that’s good.” Steve turned to leave.
“Is there a problem?” Mr. Thomas wondered why a parent had made an unannounced visit after school.
“It’s just that Don hasn’t come home yet, my wife called me at work and was worried. I thought I’d start here then take the path he…”
“Donald told the kids he had to go straight home tonight.” Mr. Thomas interrupted. “I know Don, if he says he has to go straight home…he will. Do you want me to call the police?”
“That won’t be necessary; I think I can handle it.” Steve raced out of the building Oscar was waiting in the car.
“He wasn’t there huh?”
Steve shook his head. “The teacher said Don said he had to go straight home…Oscar something is wrong.”
“Maybe he’s home now.” Oscar pulled the car away from the curb, “what direction does he usually take.”
Steve gave Oscar the directions they followed the path Don took when he walked home.
“Is he here?” Steve asked when he and Oscar arrived at the house.”
///////////////////////////////
Hanson pulled up to the new ‘hide out’ “Bring the kid.” He barked at Dolenz.
Dolnez though used to being the one in charge did as he was told. He knew soon Austin would be his.
Hanson unlocked the door to the cabin and stepped in. “Put the boy in that room and lock the door.” He ordered.
Dolenz shoved Don into the small bedroom and locked the door.
“You stay with the boy; I’m going to get Yuri.” Hanson proclaimed. “If he gives you any trouble hit him with this.” Hanson produced a syringe “that will knock him out for the night.”
“How do I know you’re not just leaving me with the kid so you can get Austin?” Dolenz challenged.
“You SOB.” Hanson swore. “I told you my beef if with the kid. Getting Austin is just a fringe benefit. Besides you and Yuri said you would pay big money for Austin…right?”
Dolenz nodded.
“Don’t worry, I’m going to get Yuri now, then we’ll plan on how we’ll lure Austin here.”
Dolenz nodded.
“I’ll be back in a half hour or so.” Hanson left.
////////////////////////////////
“No Steve.” Cassie was practically in tears “He hasn’t gotten home yet. “Now tell me, what is going on?”
“It’s like I said on the phone Sweetie in order to smoke them out…we had to act like I was going away…I’m sorry I had to deceive you…but if you didn’t ‘believe’ it…no one would have…”
“I see your point. But I think your plan backfired.” Cassie reminded. “Look Steve, Donald is my son too. My name is on the adoption papers as well…remember? Steve I love our son. I want him back…”
“So do I honey, we’ll get him back…I’m sure Hanson will contact us soon.”
“I hope so. I mean Don has enough problems.” Cassie stated. “He doesn’t need anymore.”
“I know what you mean.” Steve sighed. “Let’s take Sara to the OSI while we look for our son?”
Jaime nodded. She got Sara ready for Callahan to watch her at the OSI.
Hanson watched as Steve’s car (with everyone in it) he noted pulled out of the driveway.
Hanson didn’t miss a beat. He parked in front of the house across the street from Steve’s. He marched into the house as was greeted by Yuri. “Where have you been?” He demanded.
“You’re in no position to ask questions.” Hanson looked at him. He wanted to kill him now but first he wanted his money. “We’ll go to the bank and get the money, Dolenz has already paid me.”
“I take it you have Austin.” Yuri said once they were at the bank.
“Yes, and the boy too Dolenz is watching them. We better hurry or he might cash in himself.”
“Yes, yes.” Yuri handed Hanson the money. “I must to see if I can make deal with Dolenz.” Yuri spoke more to himself than to Hanson. “I must have Austin to myself…my country wants him.”
Hanson led Yuri out to his car. “Come on, I really don’t trust Dolenz alone with Austin.
Yuri nodded his head and got into the passenger side of the car.
Hanson drove several miles outside of town then stopped his car.
Yuri eyes him suspiciously. “What is going on?”
“Nothing” Hanson’s voice was cold. “We’ve just come to the part of the story where I kill you.”
Yuri stared at him for several seconds then his look went from bewildered to anger and then it became a look of terror as Hanson pulled his gun and fired striking Yuri in the head.
Hanson then took the body deep into a field off the side of the road…and just for good measure fired three more shots at Yuri…two in the chest…one more in his head. Then he quickly walked back to his car and drove back to the cabin.
“Where’s Yuri?” Dolenz questioned.
“He pulled out…lack of funds…speaking of…”
Dolenz reached for the brief case he had been carrying. His buyers had paid him already he was happy that Yuri had bailed out…now he didn’t have to kill him
Hanson counted the money. “Very good…it’s all here.” He smiled as he drew his gun again. “Now I’ll give you your change…you didn’t really think I would turn Austin over to you…did you?” Again he fired shooting Dolenz in the same manner he had just killed Yuri.
///////////////////////////////
“…We’re not giving up Steve.” Oscar said for the fifth time as they made their way back to Steve’s house…we just need time to regroup.” Oscar assured.
“I just feel like we’re giving up.” Steve sighed as they stepped into the living room. “I feel like I’m letting Donald down.”
“We’re not letting him down.” Cassie put her arm around him. “We’re just trying to come up with a different approach as to how to find him.
Steve looked at her. “I suppose you’re right, I just wish there was some clue as to where Hanson took him.”
“Let’s drive to the school again.” Cassie suggested.
“We’ve driven that path five times now.” Oscar reminded.
“I know,” Cassie nodded. “But let’s drive it in reverse…”
“You mean from the house to the school?” Steve questioned.
Cassie nodded. “Sometimes you need to look at things from all sides…sort of like working a jig saw puzzle.”
“You mean the way Donald is always putting them together upside down.” Steve stated.
“Exactly!” she made everyone jump.
They all headed back out to the car.
///////////////////////////
After disposing of Dolenz’ body Hanson returned to the cabin. Donald was still locked in the bedroom.
Hanson walked over to the door and opened it. Don sat on the bed rocking back and forth.
Hanson walked over to him.
“I want to go home.” Don spoke softly.
“You will.” Hanson smirked “just as soon as I tell you a little story about your father.”
Don stared wide eyed as Hanson told Donald everything he knew about Steve…
(4)
This time they drove slowly up the street. Steve looked out the window scanning everything. “I just don’t see anything.” He sighed.
“I guess we’ll just have to wait for Hanson to make his move…” He stopped as Steve’s car phone rang. Hoping it was Donald Steve grabbed it. “Donald?” He asked.
“No Steve, its Russ.” Russ replied. “I have some news for you and Oscar.”
Steve handed the phone to Oscar. “It’s Russ.”
“Yes Russ” Oscar asked.
“You’re not going to believe it…and I’m not sure if the two cases are linked. But we’ve found two bodies…”
“Donald?” Oscar swallowed hard.
“No, two adult bodies…One of them…get this…Jeffery Dolenz.”
“Dolenz is dead?” Oscar could hardly believe what he was hearing.
“Yes, and another man named…” Oscar heard him sift through some papers “His Name was Yuri Dimetree.”
The Russian scientist?” he asked.
“The one in the same” Russ came back.
“What’s that got to do with Donald’s disappearance?” Oscar asked.
“Like I said, I don’t know if it’s linked with Don or not…I just thought you might like the info…especially about Dolenz…”
“Yes, I do find that interesting.” Oscar sighed. There was a small commotion on the other line. “Russ, what’s going on?” Oscar demanded.
“Hang on a second Oscar.” Once again Oscar could hear Russ going through papers.
“Is this accurate?” Russ asked
Oscar heard the other voice say yes it was.
“Oscar. I hope your still there? you’re not going to believe it. I just got the ballistics report back. Both Dolenz and Yuri were killed with the same gun…registered to one Jack Hanson.”
/////////////////////////////
“It’s not true!” Donald shouted. “It’s not true. You lie. You lied to the judge.”
“I’m not lying now.” Hanson sneered.
“Yes you are!” Don pushed past him and raced out the door.
“Come back here!” Hanson shouted as he raced after the boy. “You’ll never find your way back to the City.” Hanson looked up and down the road but couldn’t see Don anywhere.
“Where are you?” Hanson shouted. He was getting very nervous. After he had destroyed the boy’s faith in Steve he intended to use Don to lure Steve straight to him, if the boy were gone that wasn’t going to be possible.
Frantically he headed for the woods in back of the house surely if the boy weren’t on the road he had run into the woods.
Don watched as Hanson took off for the woods then he crawled under the car and unscrewed the oil pan. Oil flowed out of the car like tap water. He found Hanson’s keys on the front car seat then he picked up a rock and started to file the key’s teeth
He left the keys on the driver’s seat where he had found them, then remembering every turn Hanson had taken he headed back for town.
////////////////////////////////
Not finding Don in the woods he headed back to the cabin, he saw Donald making his way down the road. “So there you are.” Hanson headed straight for his car he grabbed the keys off the driver’s seat and put them in the ignition and turned the key…nothing, in fact the key almost fell back out.
Hanson looked at the key. “So that’s you game he ran back into the cabin and grabbed the spare, again he put the key in the ignition and tried to start the car. This time it wouldn’t turn over at all. Hanson looked at the flashing red light that said ‘change oil’
“Dammit!” Hanson cursed. He got out of the car and started after Donald, but Don had quite a head start on him.
Don didn’t know Hanson was behind him…nor did he care. All he knew was that he wanted to get away from this strange man who told lies about his dad.
Don had been watching the whole time in the back seat even though Dolenz held him tight he was still able to look out the window. Now he was remembering every turn and every stop Hanson had made on his way to the cabin.
//////////////////////////////////
“I say we just stay at your house Steve…I mean if Hanson is going to make contact…” Oscar said once they were back home.
“I suppose you’re right. At least we know.…or think we know who has him. What was Russ saying about Dolenz?
“Dolenz is dead.” Oscar told him. “He and a Russian scientist named Yuri Dimetree.”
“I’ve heard of him.” Rudy chimed in. “He’s been working on bionics for years…he just could never prefect it.”
Oscar thought for several moments. “Surely there is no link between the two.”
“There could be.” Rudy speculated.
Oscar and Steve both nodded.
Steve turned to Oscar “did they have any clues as to where Hanson might have taken Donald?”
“We’re working on it.” Oscar assured.
“In the mean time…” Oscar began but was interrupted when the front door flew open all turned in that direction.
“Mom…Dad!” Donald called. “Mom…Dad!”
Cassie went running to him. “I’m here Donald.” She hugged him tight.
“Wh…wh…where’s dad?” Donald asked.
Steve ran up to him, “I’m right here…where have you been?”
“That…that…that guy who…”
“Donald” Steve corrected “don’t stutter remember? Just slow down” Steve reminded
“That,,,guy…who…shot…you.” Don spoke slowly choosing his words carefully.
“How did you get away?” Jaime asked.
“I…I…Just…ran…away…he’s right…behind me.” Don explained.
“You mean he was chasing you?” Oscar asked.
Don nodded.
“We have to find him Oscar.” Steve shot him a glance. “Cassie, you stay here with the kids…no as a matter of fact we’ll take you to the OSI…you’ll be safer there.”
“You take them Steve.” Oscar looked at him, “then meet me back here. In the mean time I’ll put out an APB on Hanson, I’ll also call the OSI and tell them you’re on your way and if Hanson shows up he’s to be arrested.”
“Thanks Oscar.” Steve escorted his family out to the car. He scanned the street hoping to see Hanson…Hanson was nowhere to be seen.
“Alright gang, everyone in the car.”
//////////////////////////
Oscar watched as Steve pulled away from the curb, he watched for several minutes to make sure they weren’t followed, then he called the OSI first.
“This is Oscar Goldman…” He had tried to drop the speaking. “Col. Austin is on his way with his family. I want you to do everything you can to protect them…that includes arresting Jack Hanson should he show up.”
“Arrest him…for what?” The security guard knowing Hanson’s reputation was a bit nervous of arresting someone as important as Jack Hanson.
“For kidnapping Col. Austin’s son…for starters!” Oscar barked.
“Yes sir.” The guard agreed.
When he hung up he called the police. “I need to speak to the commissioner.” Oscar ordered.
“This is Oscar Goldman of the OSI.”
“I’ll put you right through.” The receptionist assured.
Within minutes Oscar had the Commissioner of police on the phone. “I need to put out an APB on Jack Hanson.” Oscar began.
“Hanson was just released from jail…as far as I know he’s committed no crime.” The Commissioner stated
“He kidnapped Col. Austin’s son. We have the boy back…in fact he’s in protective custody as we speak till Hanson is found.”
“I see.” The commissioner sighed. “I’ll get right on it.”
“I’d appreciate that.” Oscar hung up and waited for Steve to get back home.
////////////////////////////
At the OSI the guard didn’t even stop Steve’s car he just waved him on through.
“Any sign of Hanson?” Steve asked when he saw Rudy.
“No, not yet, come on Cassie, I have everything set up in my office. I thought you’d all be more comfortable there.” He turned to Steve. “Are you joining the search?”
Steve nodded “just as soon as I leave here…in fact, call and tell him I’m on my way.”
Rudy nodded and reached for the phone as Steve headed out the door.
/////////////////////////////
When he got back to the house Oscar was waiting on the sidewalk. “I thought I’d save you the trouble of getting out of the car so when Rudy called I decided to wait for you out here.” Oscar said as he climbed into the car.
“Have you heard anything?” Steve asked.
Oscar shook his head. “He must be hiding out.”
“I agree with that.” Steve nodded.
They had just pulled away from the curb when Steve’s car phone rang. “I’ll get it.” Oscar offered. “I gave the Police Commissioner this number.”
Steve nodded and let Oscar pick up the phone. “He’s been seen hanging around the school.” Oscar reported when he hung up.
“He’s probably waiting for Donald to go back to school.” Steve surmised as he headed for Don’s school.
/////////////////////////////////
Without a care in the world Hanson had simply gone to Don’s school where he knew the boy would eventually end up. ‘If I just hang around here…Don will come back and I’ll take him from there.
He was shocked when four police cars and Oscar and Steve pulled up to the curb. “Just hold it there Hanson!” Oscar ordered.
Hanson ducked into the school and the first classroom he could find. After he closed the door he turned and found himself face to face with a room full of kindergarteners. ‘Oh great!” he sighed
(5)
Oscar, Steve and Russ ran into the building but by the time they go inside Hanson was nowhere to be seen.
“Can I help you gentlemen” the principal approached them.
Oscar flashed is ID. “I’m sorry for the trouble” he began “but a man we have been looking for just ran in here, we don’t want anyone to get hurt…but…”
“I understand” the principal nodded. “Is there anything I can do to help?”
Oscar thought a moment. “I’d say just keep all of the kids in their class rooms for now…we might be able to hold off a hostage situation.”
“I’ll get right on that.” The principal headed for his office and called each class room.
//////////////////////////////
Hanson turned to the teacher. “Don’t even think about going near that phone.” He pointed his gun at her.
The teacher shook her head. “No I won’t, but can I get my children out of here?”
Hanson shook his head. “I don’t think so…They just might prove to be an asset.” He looked around at the children.
The teacher called the terrified children over to the carpet. “Come on kids…group time.” She called.
Hanson followed her to the other side of the room. “What are you doing?” he snapped.
“We’re having group time.” The teacher tried to explain. “It will be lunch time soon…most of these kids eat hot lunch…they will need to go to the cafeteria.”
“No one is going anywhere till I get what I want.” Hanson barked.
“And what do you want?” the teacher asked.
“I want a free trip out of here for starters.” Hanson’s voice was not so harsh
“I don’t know if that will be possible.” The teacher sighed. At that moment the phone in her room rang. Without thinking she ran to answer it.
As she picked up the receiver Hanson got nervous he grabbed the teacher by the arm. “I said no phone! He dragged her over to the door and shoved her out the door.
//////////////////////////
Oscar, Russ and Steve gathered outside the principal’s office. “I haven’t seen him at all.” Oscar muttered
“Neither have I.” Steve sighed. “I wonder if maybe he went out of the building and he’s no longer here.”
“Don’t count on it” the principal shouted as he ran out of his office. “I just called Miss Lind’s room. She no more picked up the phone when I heard someone shout ‘no phone’ then the phone went dead. She’s one of our kindergarten teachers.”
“What about the rest of the kids?” Oscar asked.
“They are all secured in their class rooms…I think they will be safer there.”
Oscar nodded his agreement. “Where is this kindergarten class room?”
“Down this hallway…come on I’ll show you.”
“Thanks Mr. Dobbs.” Russ started to follow along with Oscar and Steve.
They arrived at the classroom. Miss Lind was standing outside her door. She turned when she heard everyone coming down the hall.
“There’s a mad man in there with the children Mr. Dobbs he has the door locked.” Miss Lind cried.
Oscar started banging on the door. “Hanson!!!” He shouted.
“Is that you Goldman?” Hanson shouted.
“Come on Hanson…give it up. You’re in enough trouble…”
“I’m not giving up. I want you and Austin out of here so I can leave peaceful.”
“That’s not going to happen.” Oscar shouted back.
“If you don’t back off” Hanson shouted. “I’ll…I’ll…I’ll.”
You’ll what Mr. Hanson?”Mr. Dobbs spoke for the first time.
“Nothing” Hanson seemed taken aback by the strange voice.
“Look, I’m Stuart Dobbs. I’m the principal here. We’ll will give you whatever you want…but let the children go…I’m sure they are frightened.
“Not a chance Dobbs. I let them go and you come storming in here…”
“No we won’t…we promise…we just want the kids out of there.”
“As soon as Goldman and Austin leave” Hanson shouted through the door.
Oscar and Steve looked at each other and then at the principal. “That’s not going to happen.”
“I understand. I’m going to get the rest of the kids out of the school. I don’t want anymore hostages.”
“That sounds like a good idea.” Oscar nodded. “My people will help with the evacuation…and getting these kids someplace safe…”
“I appreciate your offer.” Dobbs accepted.
/////////////////////////
Hanson turned to the children. “It won’t be long kids.” He smiled
The kids simply stared at him.
“Where did you get that gun mister?” a boy named Cody asked.
“I use it in my work.” Hanson tried to stay pleasant.
“Where do you work?” A boy named Nathan asked.
“I work for the government.” Hanson smiled.
“Huh?” Cody and Nathan wondered.
“It’s kind of like the police.” Hanson tried to reassure the kids that he was a good guy.
“Can we play beauty parlor?” One of the girls asked.
Hanson gave a slight nod. ‘I better keep these kids entertained till Goldman gives up.’ He thought to himself.
“Yeah, I guess you can play beauty parlor.” Hanson sighed.
“Sit down” the girl instructed.
Not wanting to upset the children anymore than they already were. Hanson sat in the chair. The girl grabbed a pair of scissors and slowly began to cut Hanson’s hair
///////////////////////
In a little over an hour they had the school completely clear of all students and staff. The only ones in the building were Steve, Oscar, Russ and Dobbs.
“I think it would be best if you were to leave too.” Oscar turned to Dobbs.
“It’s my school…” He pointed to the door that led into the class room. “Those are my kids. I need to protect them.”
“I don’t think this is a wise choice.” Oscar tried to explain.
“I understand where you are coming from Mr. Goldman.” Dobbs hesitated “But you need to understand my side. I’m responsible for these kids till their parents pick them up at three. I want to make sure they are safe.”
Oscar nodded. “I understand. We’ll try to get all of those kids out…without incident.” Oscar assured.
“I’ll be in my office if you need me for anything.” Dobbs sighed. “I’ve got to call all of the parents in Miss Lind’s class…let them know what’s going on.”
“Thanks.” Oscar muttered as he went back to the situation.
////////////////////////
“Hey!” Hansen shouted. “Don’t cut my hair, besides I thought you kids were going to play.”
“But I want to cut your hair.” Katie replied.
By now the children were running all over the room grabbing anything they could get.
“Hey Katie” Cody called. “Here’s the ‘big people scissors’ I bet you can give him a really good hair cut with these.”
Hanson tried to stand up but Nathan had grabbed his gun and pointed it at him. “You better sit and let Katie cut your hair. She’s very good at it.”
Fearing the boy might accidently shoot the gun Hanson sat back down. ‘oh dear’ he thought what is my head going to look like’
“Hey mister.” Another boy called out “would you tie my shoe?”
“Not right now Barry, I have to do his hair, now hand me the rubber bands.” Katie said.
While Hansen sat getting his hair trimmed…the children were creating a mess
“I have some glue Katie You cut off to much hair…I think you better glue some back on.” Barry replied.
“I think your right.” Katie took the glue bottle from Barry and poured it over Hansen’s head then she picked up the hair that was on the floor and started putting it back on Hansen’s head.
“That still doesn’t look good.” Nathan made a face. He pushed a chair in front of the ‘art’ cupboard and got down the box containing glitter. “Here you go. This might make it look a little better.”
Katie took the glitter from Nathan. “What color should I use?”
Hansen cringed when he heard Barry say… “How bout all the colors?”
Katie smiled “I think that would be a good idea.”
“Look what I found.” Cody called. “I found the snack juice…grape.”
“I’m hungry.” Nathan piped up.
“We have to give our company his first.” Cody protested.
“That’s alright.” Hanson tried again to get up now that Katie was eyeing the juice.
“No, it would be very rude to not give you some first.” Nathan held him down.
“Here’s you glass.” Katie handed him a toy dish glass while Nathan…missing his target poured juiced all over Hansen’s trousers.
“That’s it!” Hansen shouted. “I’d rather be in the hole than in this room.” He got up and tried to charge his way to the door but tripped.
He looked down at his shoes…the laces had been tied together.
“I know how to tie now.” Barry smiled.
Hansen groaned as he picked himself up off the floor he untied his shoes and re tied them the right way.
“You don’t want to stay for snack?” Nathan looked at him.
“But we’re going to paint now.” Cody reached into the cupboard marked paint supplies. He took out a bottle of paint and poured it onto the table. All the kids started smearing it around the table then ran over to Hanson.
“Are you sure you don’t want to paint.” Nathan (with red paint all over his hands) reached up and grabbed at Hanson’s suit coat….
(6)
In a matter of seconds Hanson had all the children clamoring at him. “You really need to paint.” Nathan held up a brush full of paint and smacked Hanson on the cheek.
“That’s it!” Hanson cried. He ran for the door. Oscar and Steve were waiting on the other side
They couldn’t help but laugh. Hansen stood in the doorway. Glue and glitter running down one side of his head, on the other side had tiny pig-tails, paint was smeared on his face and his expensive suit had red hand prints all over it. The front of his suit was wet.
“You know Hansen. I haven’t had that problem since pre-school” Steve howled as he pointed to Hanson’s wet front.
“I surrender” was all Hanson said.
Oscar grabbed Hanson by the arm. “You’re in some big trouble” he reminded.
“I don’t care…just get me out of here!!!” Hanson moaned. “Get me out of this school…away from those kids…”
At that moment Katie peeked out of the room. “Are you sure you don’t want snack?” She shook a bag of animal crackers. “We’re already to eat now.”
Hanson turned white. “Get her away from me. She’s the one who did this to me!” He pointed to his hair. “Oh please don’t let her near me.” Hanson pleaded.
Oscar and Steve exchanged glances while the principal took Katie by the hand and escorted her over to her mother who stood outside with the other parents waiting for the safe release of their children.
By the time they got Hanson to the car he was blabbering about anything and everything but none of it made any sense.
“Sounds like the next time we want to interrogate someone we just bring them to Miss Lind’s classroom for an hour or so.” Steve laughed.
“It…it…it’s not funny.” Hanson’s face aside from the paint, glitter and glue now dried to it was very white. “It’s worse than the hole…”
“Aw come on Hanson, you just have to know how to deal with kids.” Steve chided.
“Austin…you don’t know what they are capable of.” Hanson shuddered.
“What happened to your hair?” Oscar asked.
“It was that Katie…she wanted to play beauty parlor…Look what she did to me!”
Oscar and Steve burst out laughing.
By the time they got to the OSI…Hanson still hadn’t composed himself, in fact he was worse.
“I don’t know what to do for him” Oscar spoke. “I thought he was getting better when we were in the car…but now all he does is ramble.”
“I’ll take him down to the lab…maybe Rudy can come up with something.” Steve suggested then I’m going home, I want to check on Donald.”
“Donald is here…remember?” Oscar reminded.
“Oh yeah, that’s right. Maybe Rudy better come down here….keep an eye on Hanson while I get Cassie and the children home.
“Sounds good to me” Oscar agreed.
/////////////////////////////
Later that night Steve sat by the fire “Are the kids asleep?” Steve asked when Cassie joined him handing him a drink.
“Yes finally.”
“How was Don?” Steve asked
“He seems ok. He said Hanson tried to tell him lies about you.” Cassie added
“Lies, what kind of lies?” Steve pressed
“That’s what I asked” Cassie continued He said he told him about your bionics.”
Steve cringed. “Really?”
“Don didn’t believe it.” Cassie finished.
“Well that’s good.” Steve nodded. He was going to say more but they were interrupted by the door bell.
“I wonder who that is….this time of night” Steve rose to answer the door. “Oscar, Rudy” he greeted. “What are you doing here?”
“We thought you might like to know about Hanson.” Rudy replied.
“At this point…I don’t care what happens to him. He told Don about my bionics.”
“That could be a problem.” Oscar muttered.
“Don didn’t believe him.” Steve explained.
“It could still be a problem…but we’ll deal with that later. Hanson was admitted to Fairview hospital tonight.”
“The psychiatric hospital?” Cassie asked.
Rudy nodded “nothing I did seemed to help. He has a strong fear of children…he’s under close guard.”
“Does he know where he is?” Steve asked.
Oscar shook his head. “I don’t think so.”
“I kind of feel sorry for him.” Cassie gave a slight frown.
‘Me too…sort of…” Steve agreed.
They were interrupted when Donald came down the stairs. “Mom…dad…” He called.
“We’re right here honey.” Cassie called.
“Can I ask you something?” Donald asked.
“Of course, you can ask us anything?” Steve assured.
“What Mr. Hanson said…is it true…about you…being…what did he call it…bionic?”
Cassie, Steve and Oscar looked at each other. Oscar gave Steve a slight nod.
Slowly Steve nodded. “Yes son it’s true.” Steve responded.
“Is that how you graded out test papers so fast?”
Steve flashed back to that day at the school. He had run behind and wanted to get the papers corrected before the kids came back. Again he nodded.
“I tried telling Jake and Bobby…they didn’t believe me…Mr. Grim did though…was it my fault he tried to hurt you?”
“No Don. He would have hurt me regardless.” Steve again assured.
Don turned to Jaime.” Could I have some juice before I go back to bed?”
“Of course you can.” Cassie led him to the kitchen.”Do you want apple or grape?” She asked.
//////////////////////////////
“I don’t know if I like this very well.” Oscar said.
“You gave your approval.” Steve reminded.
“I know. I just said I don’t know if I like it very well.” Oscar restated.
“I don’t think too many people would take him seriously.” Steve added.
“Mr. Grim did.” Oscar reminded.
“Grim was a Soviet Operative.” Steve also reminded “I don’t think Don will be running into to many of those. Jaime and I keep a pretty close watch on him…mostly because of the autisim.”
“I guess you’re right. Just be careful.”
“I will…by the way, do you think Hanson will ever get out of the psychiatric hospital?”
“I don’t see that happening in the foreseeable future.” Oscar stated as he made his way to the door.
“I’ll see you tomorrow.” Steve called as Oscar and Rudy made their way down the porch steps.
Oscar gave him a slight nod; he and Rudy got in his car and drove off.
///////////////////////////
“They left?” Cassie asked as she came back from putting Don back in bed.
“Yeah they just left.” Steve closed the door. “Did Don say anymore?”
“No, I told him how important it is that he never tells anybody…that they could hurt you if they knew, the same way Mr. Grim did.”
“He accepted that?” Steve asked.
“He seemed to.” Cassie kissed him on the cheek. “Why don’t we go to bed?”
Steve nodded and they headed upstairs they first peeked in on Sara who was snoring softly in her crib. Then they tiptoed into Donald’s room. To their relief Don was fast asleep a ring of grape juice still around his lips.
“I think he’ll be ok.” Cassie smiled as she closed his door. “He’s a pretty good kid.”
“I know he is.” Steve smiled back. “And you’re right…he’ll be fine.”
NO MORE ROAD BLOCKS
“…When did this happen?” Oscar shouted into the phone startling Steve and Rudy who were sitting in the leather chairs on the other side of Oscar’s desk.
“…Yes…yes. I appreciate your call, thanks.” Oscar slammed the phone down.
“What gives?” Steve asked.
“That was Ben Conner from the FBI.” Oscar remained seated he turned to Steve. “He headed the investigation that led to the arrest of Jack Hanson for shooting you last year…remember.”
Steve nodded. He still didn’t remember Hanson shooting him…but he remembered the events afterwards.
“Well Ben just informed me that Hanson was released from prison yesterday…”
“I thought he was to serve at least five years.” Rudy interrupted.
“So did I, he got time off for good behavior….”
“Good behavior…Hanson?” Steve questioned.
“Hard to believe huh” Oscar fumed.
“Anyway, so he’s out?” Steve redirected the conversation back to where it had started.
Oscar nodded. “Ben says yesterday…where are Cassie, Sara and Donald?” Oscar asked concern for Steve’s family rising in his voice especially Steve and Cassie’s one month old daughter Sara.
“Don is in School of course, and Cassie said she was taking Sara to do some light shopping. We needed some things for dinner…I offered to get them…but Cassie said she wanted to get out of the house.”
“Do you know where she might be shopping?” Oscar asked. Steve could tell by his tone that it was more serious than he thought.
“I’ll call the house…see if she’s left yet.” Steve picked up the phone and called his house. He was relieved when Cassie answered.
“Hello.” She sounded out of breath.
“Cassie it’s Steve…is everything ok.” He too was now concerned about the well being of his family.
“Yes…I’m fine. I’m just trying to get out of the house.” Cassie sounded agitated.
“Well I’d rather you didn’t.” Steve mustered up the courage to tell her about Hanson.
“Why not?” she demanded.
“Hanson was released from prison yesterday…good behavior.” Steve told her.
“Good behavior…Hanson doesn’t have an ounce of good in him.” Cassie hissed. “Steve I’ve been pinned up for three weeks now…I want to get out of the house.”
“I’ll come home…we’ll go together.” Steve offered.
Cassie weighed her options…Hanson though he had been to prison for trying to kill Steve was still a very powerful man in DC. The police listened…or had listened to him in the past. “Ok Steve, I’ll wait for you.” She assured.
Steve left Oscar’s office and headed down to his car. He jumped in and raced all the way home Cassie was waiting on the porch for him.
“I called the school. I told them to not let Donald go with anyone but us or Russ.” Cassie said as she slid into the seat next to Steve.
“Where’s Sara?” Steve was perplexed that she didn’t have the baby with her.
“Laurie next door is watching her. “I told her to keep the bassinet in the living room and to not answer the door or phone. I figured if anyone we knew called…didn’t get an answer they would try back later. I figured we’d pick Donald up as soon as we finished at the store.”
“Good idea.” Steve agreed. “You think pretty fast.” Steve was pleased that Cassie had taken matters into her own hands to help in protecting her family. “Now what do we want for dinner?”
“In view of all that’s going on…I say we have something simple so we can get Donald upstairs and away from the conversation as soon as possible.”
“That sounds good. I mean Sara I don’t mind talking around a whole lot…she doesn’t talk yet, but in a few months we won’t be able to do that either.” Steve said.
Cassie nodded.
“What store did you want to go to?’ Steve asked as he pulled the car into traffic.
“Dillon’s” They are having a sale on all meats. I figured we’d just have hamburgers.” Cassie watched as Steve weaved in and out of traffic.
Steve nodded. “Dillon’s it is then.”
///////////////////////////
In a hotel across town Hanson sat with two men. “I understand we have the same enemy.” Hanson began.
“That we do.” The first man nodded. “But how can we trust you…you work for the NSB.” He reminded.
“I used to work for the NSB…right now…no agency would hire me for nothing.” Hanson told them.”
“How do we know this isn’t a set up?” The second man asked.
“Trust me…I want Austin just as much as you do.” Hanson smirked.
The two men looked at each other. “Should we trust him Dolenz.” The first man asked.
Dolenz nodded. “I think we can Yuri”
“I hope so.” Yuri Zimmer fidgeted in his seat. “My government wants him too.”
“There will be enough to go around.” Hanson assured. “I know you are both interested in the concept of bionics…I’m just interested in seeing Austin dead and maybe that little brat of his as well.”
“Little brat?” Dolenz questioned.
“His son…his adopted son I accidently shot Austin a year ago. It was an accident. I was trying to get him to take care of some business for me…he refused. I only threatened him with the gun, I didn’t mean for it to go off…but would the judge listen to me…no he listened to that snot nosed kid of his.”
“I understand your feelings.” Yuri spoke. He turned to Dolenz. I suppose we will have to cooperate…you know…my government is always looking for good scientists…you could come work for us…we will take care of everything you need.”
Dolenz thought for a moment. “I might consider that.” He smiled at Yuri.
“Sounds like you two are getting along. Now we have to plan a way of getting Austin.” Hanson sneered.
“You said he has children?” Dolenz prompted.
Hanson nodded.
“Maybe we could use that to our advantage.” Dolenz smirked.
/////////////////////////////////////////
At the store Cassie flew around getting everything she thought she might need should they be confined to the house for several days. She grabbed a case of formula for the baby along with two packages of diapers. Then she grabbed up a lot of the snack food Donald liked to munch on.
“This isn’t going to be easy.” She said to Steve as they waited in line…their cart full of provisions. “You know how Donald hates his routine disrupted.”
Steve nodded. “He’ll just have to deal with it. We’ll find some things to occupy his time.”
“I guess you’re right.” She glanced down at her watch. “We should get to the school just in time to pick Donald up.”
Steve grabbed the bag of groceries and they headed for the car. “Did we really need all this stuff?” He asked.
“I don’t know. I don’t know if this is going to keep us confined to the house or not.” Cassie reminded.
“I suppose you’re right. As soon as we get home I’m calling Oscar to see if he’s heard anymore.” Steve stated.
“Good idea.” she agreed.
Again Steve pulled the car into traffic and they headed for Donald’s school.
“I just hate this line up.” Cassie complained as they joined the line of cars waiting to pick up children. “I just want to get Donald and go.”
“Yeah, I know.” Steve reached for his car phone.
“Who are you calling?” Cassie asked.
“Russ, I’ll tell him we’re here and to not worry.”
Cassie nodded. “Call the house too, see if Laurie and the baby are alright.”
“That was second on my list.” Steve assured her.
Cassie watched as Steve first called Russ and told him they were at the school, then he called the house.
After several rings he hung up. He turned to Cassie “You told her not to answer the phone…”
“Oh yeah, that’s right. Sorry about that”
///////////////////////////////////
“So, when do we move?” Yuri was getting restless.
“I want Austin to feel secure and let his guard down.” Hanson explained.
“What do you mean?” Dolenz sounded irritated.
“He knows I’m out of prison…I’m sure they called Goldman…and Goldman called Austin. For some time now Steve is going to be on high alert…I’m sure he won’t let the kids out of his sight…and they are our sitting ducks so to speak. No gentlemen…we must proceed slowly with this one.”
Yuri and Dolenz exchanged glances.
“If you don’t do it my way….” Hanson threatened “I still have friends in high places who…though they won’t hire me…they would listen to me if I told them a Russian scientist and Jeffery Dolenz had approached me about helping them lure Austin to his death…I know they would listen to me. So you see…it’s my way or…”
Dolanz and Yuri knew Hanson had them. “Alright you’re in charge, but we want Austin…and we want him fast.”
Hanson nodded. “I understand but you see we must catch him off guard.”
////////////////////////////////////
Cassie and Steve arrived home with Donald and the groceries. Steve watched as Laurie walked next door to her house.
She had reported nothing out of the ordinary happening.
Cassie went about making dinner for the family. ‘I wonder how long we’ll have to be on the lookout?’ She said to herself.
“Don’t worry, I talked to Oscar” Steve stepped out in the kitchen where she was started frying the hamburgers. “Oscar seems to think everything is under control. He hasn’t heard anything from Hanson at all.”
“Well that’s good…maybe this won’t be so bad after all. Maybe Hanson has decided to go on his marry way.” Cassie turned the hamburgers over.
“Let’s hope so.” Steve smiled at her.
////////////////////////////////////
Across the street Hanson…Dolenz and Yuri sat listening to the conversation....
(2)
“…I don’t see why you need to keep your family confined any longer.” Oscar said a month later. “The way I’ve heard it Hanson isn’t even in town anymore. He left a week after he was released from prison.”
“I heard that too.” Steve nodded. “I guess it’s safe.”
“I don’t see why it wouldn’t be.” Oscar said. “In fact I have a mission for you. Cassie and the children will be fine.”
Steve was reluctant to go. He called Cassie.
“…Well I guess if Oscar says it’s safe.” Cassie finally said.
“I’ll tell him to make sure Russ drives by a couple of times a day just to be on the safe side. Oscar says Hanson isn’t even in town anymore.” Steve finished.
“Well if that’s the case I think you should take the mission.” Cassie agreed.
They hung up and Steve turned to Oscar. “I meant what I said to Jaime. I want Russ to stop by a couple of time during the day. I know Cassie is an experienced agent…but I don’t trust Hanson.”
“I know what you mean. Don’t worry; we’ll take care of Cassie and the kids.” Oscar assured.
“See to it that you do.” Steve grumbled as he headed for the door.
“Where are you going?” Oscar asked.
“I’m going home to say good-bye to Cassie and my kids.” Steve told him.
Oscar nodded. “Yes, of course I didn’t even think.”
“That’s one of your biggest problems.” Steve muttered as he left Oscar’s office and headed down the hall.
////////////////////////////
At home Cassie and the kids were waiting for him. “Oscar called; he said you were on your way to say good-bye before you left.” Cassie spoke.
“I really don’t want to go.” Steve moaned, “but I suppose I have no choice.”
“We’ll be fine.” Cassie assured.
“You don’t mind my going then…just say the word Cassie and I’ll call Oscar.”
/////////////////////////////////
At a small airstrip in Bethesda Hanson’s plane touched down. Dolenz and Yuri stood waiting for him.
“Thanks for picking me up.” Hanson stated. “I appreciate it.”
“Are we ready to move?” Yuri complained. “My people are growing impatient.
“Yes we are ready to move. My contact at the OSI tells me Austin is leaving today for a mission. That means they have finally let their guard down.” Hanson informed.
“Where is this mission?” Yuri demanded.
“I don’t know…and I don’t care. We now have access to his family…that’s where I wanted to start.” Hanson shot back.
“So what do we do now?” Dolenz wanted to know.
“We wait for Austin to leave, then we move in on his family. I have plans…I have big plans especially for that little brat who sent me to prison for a year. It wasn’t easy getting out either.” Hanson went on. “I had to do a lot of bribing and pay a lot of money to get out as early as I did.” Hanson added.
“I don’t see what that has to do with anything.” Yuri sneered.
“It doesn’t” Hanson muttered. I was just rambling. But with Austin out of DC for however long he’s going to be….we have time to do a lot of damage… like I said, especially to that kid.”
“What do you have against the boy?” Dolenz asked.
“He sent me to prison…I told you that.” Hanson was growing angry. “I knew if I were to leave the city that they would eventually let their guard down. I have a friend to Kansas who will use my bank card…and credit cards…that way it will look like I’m still in Kansas.” Hanson smiled. “I have plenty of money to get me through.”
“Very clever” Dolenz seemed somewhat impressed. “I don’t even think Goldman knows I’m out of prison.”
“He doesn’t even know me.” Yuri added.
Hanson and Dolenz nodded.
“Now” Hanson began “we go back to the City and wait for Austin’s wife to let her guard down for just a bit.” He caught the look between Dolenz and Yuri. “I’m sure she’ll keep those kids close for a while.”
///////////////////////////////////
“Of course I mind.” Cassie told him… “But we’ll be fine.”
Steve headed upstairs to pack a few things he would need for the mission, then he came back down. “If you have any problems…any problems at all call Oscar.” Steve ordered.
“I will don’t worry. Try to get back as soon as you can. I’m not going to ask where you’re going cause I know you can’t tell me anyway…”
“Oscar will have all of that information.” Steve kissed her and Sara, then he patted Donald on the back. “You’re the man of the house…you take care of your mom and sister…”
“I will.” Donald assured.
Cassie and the kids watched as Steve headed down the porch steps and out to Oscar who was waiting in the car.
“I hate to deceive them that way.” Steve sighed as he sat next to Oscar. “I feel like I’m cheating on her or something.”
“You want to bring Hanson out of the woodwork don’t you?” Oscar asked.
Steve nodded.
“Then this is the only way.” Oscar explained. “I found out we have an informant…I guess if you’re on any mission it’s to expose him/her.” Oscar stated. “I had to ‘send you on a mission’ from within the OSI hoping the informant would contact Hanson…”
“And did they?” Steve wondered.
Oscar shrugged. “We’ll know soon enough. Russ is keeping a constant watch on Cassie and the kids. If Hanson is going to make a move…it will be against them first.”
“I suppose you’re right…I just wish I could have explained it to Cassie …”
“We’re pretty sure that your house is bugged.” Oscar told him.
“You mentioned that. We had to make it look good…I guess…I just hope we didn’t make it look too good.” Steve muttered.
“I see you’re point.” Oscar sighed. “Don’t worry; we won’t let Cassie or the kids out of our sight.”
“And I’ll stay at the OSI…until something happens?” Steve asked looking at Oscar who simply nodded.
////////////////////////////
In the house across from Steve and Cassie, Hanson looked out the window as the car pulled away. “See, I told you if we were just patient…”
“Austin is leaving?” Yuri asked.
“He’s leaving.” Hanson smirked “I always thought Goldman was smarter than that.”
Yuri and Dolenz headed for the front door of the house.
“Where are you going?” Hanson demanded.
“To get Austin’s wife and kids” Dolenz shouted.
“Not just yet.” Hanson stopped them. “I need to hear from my informant that Austin is indeed gone.”
“We have waited long enough.” Yuri snapped.
“I’m asking for one more day” Hanson pleaded. He didn’t know how much longer he could hold them off, he wished now that he was in this alone. But if he were going to pull this off he had to have someone helping…someone whom Donald didn’t know.
“One more day” Dolenz repeated. “Alright Hanson, we’ll give you one more day. But after that, Austin is ours. I don’t really care what you do.”
“We’ll get Donald first thing tomorrow…that is if my people tell me Austin is indeed out of the country. Otherwise…we can’t risk it.”
Yuri and Dolenz looked at one another.
“Don’t worry” Hanson smiled. “Austin will be well on his way and I’ll teach that brat a couple of things about his father.”
“Is that all you want?” Yuri asked. “Is all you want the kid?”
“Of course not I want Austin too. I just want the little monster to suffer first.”
Again the two men looked at each other.
‘I can’t wait till this is over’ Hanson thought ‘of course my next hurdle is deciding which of you to kill first once I get what I want out of you.’
“We’ll go along with you this last time.” Dolenz threatened. After that…you’re on your own, we’ll take Austin’s wife. I’m sure he’d cooperate if she were in danger.
////////////////////////////////////////
“Ok Donald.” Cassie put one arm around him while the other she cradled the baby. “Why don’t we see what we want to do for dinner? What would you like? How about something simple like grilled cheese?”
“I like that.” Donald watched the house across the street. “I didn’t know we had neighbors.”
Cassie looked across and saw people moving around. “Neither did I” she muttered. “Come on Donald we’ll get dinner going.”
Don followed her into the house and closed the door.
//////////////////////////////
The next afternoon Dolenz and Hanson sat outside Donald’s school. They were waiting for the boy to come out.
“We’ll know soon enough.” Hanson rubbed his hands together.
“What do you mean?” Dolenz asked.
“If young Donald starts to walk home by himself…we’ll know that they don’t suspect a thing…however if someone is here to pick him up…or follows him home…we’ll know they are on to us.”
They both perked up when the bell rang and children tumbled out of the building. “There he is.” Hanson pointed to Donald. “Now we follow him home.”
They followed Donald till he was about a two blocks from home. They carefully checked to make sure no was watching or following them. Hanson pulled a little ahead of him then he stopped the car. “Ok Dolenz, you’re up.”
“What do you mean?” Dolenz snapped.
Hanson glared at him; “He knows me you idiot.” Hanson practically shouted. “Come on we have to get him before he gets home.”
Dolenz jumped out of the car. “Hello there my boy” Dolenz greeted “is your name Donald Austin?”
Don nodded
“I have a message from your father he sent me to pick you up and bring you to him.”
Don nodded and followed Dolenz to the car. Slowly he slid into the back seat…
(3)
For the fourth time in as many minutes Steve glanced at his watch. “Come on Oscar he should be home by now. Call Cassie and make sure Donald got home from school.”
Oscar looked at his watch. “Ok pal, just calm down.” He picked up the phone and dialed Steve’s number. “Cassie, its Oscar, I just wanted to make sure Donald made it home from school.”
“He’s not home yet Oscar…sometimes he stays after and helps his teacher feed Ralph.” Cassie told him
“Who’s Ralph?” Oscar asked.
“He’s the class pet…a rabbit. Don loves him. In fact Steve and I have thought about getting Donald a pet.”
“If he’s not home in the next twenty minutes…call me back.” Oscar ordered.
“Oscar. I thought you said everything was fine.” Cassie pulled Sara close to her.
Steve grabbed the phone from Oscar “Cassie it’s me…”
“Steve?” she gasped. “I thought you were on a mission…”
“This is the mission. We were hoping if Hanson thought I was out of the picture so to speak…he would make his move…he very well might have. I’m on my way. I’ll go to the school first then drive the path Don takes.”
//////////////////////////////
Donald screamed when he saw who was behind the wheel. He frantically grabbed the door handle to try and get out of the car.
“For g*d sake Dolenz, can’t you control that kid?” Hanson shouted.
Dolenz tightened his grip on Donald. “Just get us out of here!” Dolenz shouted back “We’re not going back to the house are we?” Dolenz wondered “I mean the boy lives across the street…”
“Do you think I’m a fool?” Hanson continued to shout.
“Of course not, but what about Yuri?” Dolenz wondered.
“I’ll go get him later tonight.” Hanson smirked.
“So where are we going now?” Dolenz questioned as he still held Don in his grip.
“We have a new hide out.” Hanson laughed as he sped down the street.
////////////////////////////////
“Ok Steve. I’m staying right here with Sara.” Cassie told him.
“Good idea.” Steve hung up and he raced out of Oscar’s office with Oscar close behind.
Steve first drove to the school. He went up to Don’s room. “Hi Mr. Thomas” he smiled.
“Well hello Col. Austin.” Mr. Thomas looked up from his desk. “Donald left some time ago.”
“Did he help feed Ralph tonight?” Steve hoped.
Mr. Thomas shook his head. “I’m afraid not. The other children wanted to feed Ralph too. I had to start drawing names…”
“How did Don take that?” Steve was concerned for his son who he knew didn’t accept change very well.
“I did it very gradually; I’ve had autistic children in my class before.” Mr. Thomas smiled. “Don seems fine with it.”
“Well that’s good.” Steve turned to leave.
“Is there a problem?” Mr. Thomas wondered why a parent had made an unannounced visit after school.
“It’s just that Don hasn’t come home yet, my wife called me at work and was worried. I thought I’d start here then take the path he…”
“Donald told the kids he had to go straight home tonight.” Mr. Thomas interrupted. “I know Don, if he says he has to go straight home…he will. Do you want me to call the police?”
“That won’t be necessary; I think I can handle it.” Steve raced out of the building Oscar was waiting in the car.
“He wasn’t there huh?”
Steve shook his head. “The teacher said Don said he had to go straight home…Oscar something is wrong.”
“Maybe he’s home now.” Oscar pulled the car away from the curb, “what direction does he usually take.”
Steve gave Oscar the directions they followed the path Don took when he walked home.
“Is he here?” Steve asked when he and Oscar arrived at the house.”
///////////////////////////////
Hanson pulled up to the new ‘hide out’ “Bring the kid.” He barked at Dolenz.
Dolnez though used to being the one in charge did as he was told. He knew soon Austin would be his.
Hanson unlocked the door to the cabin and stepped in. “Put the boy in that room and lock the door.” He ordered.
Dolenz shoved Don into the small bedroom and locked the door.
“You stay with the boy; I’m going to get Yuri.” Hanson proclaimed. “If he gives you any trouble hit him with this.” Hanson produced a syringe “that will knock him out for the night.”
“How do I know you’re not just leaving me with the kid so you can get Austin?” Dolenz challenged.
“You SOB.” Hanson swore. “I told you my beef if with the kid. Getting Austin is just a fringe benefit. Besides you and Yuri said you would pay big money for Austin…right?”
Dolenz nodded.
“Don’t worry, I’m going to get Yuri now, then we’ll plan on how we’ll lure Austin here.”
Dolenz nodded.
“I’ll be back in a half hour or so.” Hanson left.
////////////////////////////////
“No Steve.” Cassie was practically in tears “He hasn’t gotten home yet. “Now tell me, what is going on?”
“It’s like I said on the phone Sweetie in order to smoke them out…we had to act like I was going away…I’m sorry I had to deceive you…but if you didn’t ‘believe’ it…no one would have…”
“I see your point. But I think your plan backfired.” Cassie reminded. “Look Steve, Donald is my son too. My name is on the adoption papers as well…remember? Steve I love our son. I want him back…”
“So do I honey, we’ll get him back…I’m sure Hanson will contact us soon.”
“I hope so. I mean Don has enough problems.” Cassie stated. “He doesn’t need anymore.”
“I know what you mean.” Steve sighed. “Let’s take Sara to the OSI while we look for our son?”
Jaime nodded. She got Sara ready for Callahan to watch her at the OSI.
Hanson watched as Steve’s car (with everyone in it) he noted pulled out of the driveway.
Hanson didn’t miss a beat. He parked in front of the house across the street from Steve’s. He marched into the house as was greeted by Yuri. “Where have you been?” He demanded.
“You’re in no position to ask questions.” Hanson looked at him. He wanted to kill him now but first he wanted his money. “We’ll go to the bank and get the money, Dolenz has already paid me.”
“I take it you have Austin.” Yuri said once they were at the bank.
“Yes, and the boy too Dolenz is watching them. We better hurry or he might cash in himself.”
“Yes, yes.” Yuri handed Hanson the money. “I must to see if I can make deal with Dolenz.” Yuri spoke more to himself than to Hanson. “I must have Austin to myself…my country wants him.”
Hanson led Yuri out to his car. “Come on, I really don’t trust Dolenz alone with Austin.
Yuri nodded his head and got into the passenger side of the car.
Hanson drove several miles outside of town then stopped his car.
Yuri eyes him suspiciously. “What is going on?”
“Nothing” Hanson’s voice was cold. “We’ve just come to the part of the story where I kill you.”
Yuri stared at him for several seconds then his look went from bewildered to anger and then it became a look of terror as Hanson pulled his gun and fired striking Yuri in the head.
Hanson then took the body deep into a field off the side of the road…and just for good measure fired three more shots at Yuri…two in the chest…one more in his head. Then he quickly walked back to his car and drove back to the cabin.
“Where’s Yuri?” Dolenz questioned.
“He pulled out…lack of funds…speaking of…”
Dolenz reached for the brief case he had been carrying. His buyers had paid him already he was happy that Yuri had bailed out…now he didn’t have to kill him
Hanson counted the money. “Very good…it’s all here.” He smiled as he drew his gun again. “Now I’ll give you your change…you didn’t really think I would turn Austin over to you…did you?” Again he fired shooting Dolenz in the same manner he had just killed Yuri.
///////////////////////////////
“…We’re not giving up Steve.” Oscar said for the fifth time as they made their way back to Steve’s house…we just need time to regroup.” Oscar assured.
“I just feel like we’re giving up.” Steve sighed as they stepped into the living room. “I feel like I’m letting Donald down.”
“We’re not letting him down.” Cassie put her arm around him. “We’re just trying to come up with a different approach as to how to find him.
Steve looked at her. “I suppose you’re right, I just wish there was some clue as to where Hanson took him.”
“Let’s drive to the school again.” Cassie suggested.
“We’ve driven that path five times now.” Oscar reminded.
“I know,” Cassie nodded. “But let’s drive it in reverse…”
“You mean from the house to the school?” Steve questioned.
Cassie nodded. “Sometimes you need to look at things from all sides…sort of like working a jig saw puzzle.”
“You mean the way Donald is always putting them together upside down.” Steve stated.
“Exactly!” she made everyone jump.
They all headed back out to the car.
///////////////////////////
After disposing of Dolenz’ body Hanson returned to the cabin. Donald was still locked in the bedroom.
Hanson walked over to the door and opened it. Don sat on the bed rocking back and forth.
Hanson walked over to him.
“I want to go home.” Don spoke softly.
“You will.” Hanson smirked “just as soon as I tell you a little story about your father.”
Don stared wide eyed as Hanson told Donald everything he knew about Steve…
(4)
This time they drove slowly up the street. Steve looked out the window scanning everything. “I just don’t see anything.” He sighed.
“I guess we’ll just have to wait for Hanson to make his move…” He stopped as Steve’s car phone rang. Hoping it was Donald Steve grabbed it. “Donald?” He asked.
“No Steve, its Russ.” Russ replied. “I have some news for you and Oscar.”
Steve handed the phone to Oscar. “It’s Russ.”
“Yes Russ” Oscar asked.
“You’re not going to believe it…and I’m not sure if the two cases are linked. But we’ve found two bodies…”
“Donald?” Oscar swallowed hard.
“No, two adult bodies…One of them…get this…Jeffery Dolenz.”
“Dolenz is dead?” Oscar could hardly believe what he was hearing.
“Yes, and another man named…” Oscar heard him sift through some papers “His Name was Yuri Dimetree.”
The Russian scientist?” he asked.
“The one in the same” Russ came back.
“What’s that got to do with Donald’s disappearance?” Oscar asked.
“Like I said, I don’t know if it’s linked with Don or not…I just thought you might like the info…especially about Dolenz…”
“Yes, I do find that interesting.” Oscar sighed. There was a small commotion on the other line. “Russ, what’s going on?” Oscar demanded.
“Hang on a second Oscar.” Once again Oscar could hear Russ going through papers.
“Is this accurate?” Russ asked
Oscar heard the other voice say yes it was.
“Oscar. I hope your still there? you’re not going to believe it. I just got the ballistics report back. Both Dolenz and Yuri were killed with the same gun…registered to one Jack Hanson.”
/////////////////////////////
“It’s not true!” Donald shouted. “It’s not true. You lie. You lied to the judge.”
“I’m not lying now.” Hanson sneered.
“Yes you are!” Don pushed past him and raced out the door.
“Come back here!” Hanson shouted as he raced after the boy. “You’ll never find your way back to the City.” Hanson looked up and down the road but couldn’t see Don anywhere.
“Where are you?” Hanson shouted. He was getting very nervous. After he had destroyed the boy’s faith in Steve he intended to use Don to lure Steve straight to him, if the boy were gone that wasn’t going to be possible.
Frantically he headed for the woods in back of the house surely if the boy weren’t on the road he had run into the woods.
Don watched as Hanson took off for the woods then he crawled under the car and unscrewed the oil pan. Oil flowed out of the car like tap water. He found Hanson’s keys on the front car seat then he picked up a rock and started to file the key’s teeth
He left the keys on the driver’s seat where he had found them, then remembering every turn Hanson had taken he headed back for town.
////////////////////////////////
Not finding Don in the woods he headed back to the cabin, he saw Donald making his way down the road. “So there you are.” Hanson headed straight for his car he grabbed the keys off the driver’s seat and put them in the ignition and turned the key…nothing, in fact the key almost fell back out.
Hanson looked at the key. “So that’s you game he ran back into the cabin and grabbed the spare, again he put the key in the ignition and tried to start the car. This time it wouldn’t turn over at all. Hanson looked at the flashing red light that said ‘change oil’
“Dammit!” Hanson cursed. He got out of the car and started after Donald, but Don had quite a head start on him.
Don didn’t know Hanson was behind him…nor did he care. All he knew was that he wanted to get away from this strange man who told lies about his dad.
Don had been watching the whole time in the back seat even though Dolenz held him tight he was still able to look out the window. Now he was remembering every turn and every stop Hanson had made on his way to the cabin.
//////////////////////////////////
“I say we just stay at your house Steve…I mean if Hanson is going to make contact…” Oscar said once they were back home.
“I suppose you’re right. At least we know.…or think we know who has him. What was Russ saying about Dolenz?
“Dolenz is dead.” Oscar told him. “He and a Russian scientist named Yuri Dimetree.”
“I’ve heard of him.” Rudy chimed in. “He’s been working on bionics for years…he just could never prefect it.”
Oscar thought for several moments. “Surely there is no link between the two.”
“There could be.” Rudy speculated.
Oscar and Steve both nodded.
Steve turned to Oscar “did they have any clues as to where Hanson might have taken Donald?”
“We’re working on it.” Oscar assured.
“In the mean time…” Oscar began but was interrupted when the front door flew open all turned in that direction.
“Mom…Dad!” Donald called. “Mom…Dad!”
Cassie went running to him. “I’m here Donald.” She hugged him tight.
“Wh…wh…where’s dad?” Donald asked.
Steve ran up to him, “I’m right here…where have you been?”
“That…that…that guy who…”
“Donald” Steve corrected “don’t stutter remember? Just slow down” Steve reminded
“That,,,guy…who…shot…you.” Don spoke slowly choosing his words carefully.
“How did you get away?” Jaime asked.
“I…I…Just…ran…away…he’s right…behind me.” Don explained.
“You mean he was chasing you?” Oscar asked.
Don nodded.
“We have to find him Oscar.” Steve shot him a glance. “Cassie, you stay here with the kids…no as a matter of fact we’ll take you to the OSI…you’ll be safer there.”
“You take them Steve.” Oscar looked at him, “then meet me back here. In the mean time I’ll put out an APB on Hanson, I’ll also call the OSI and tell them you’re on your way and if Hanson shows up he’s to be arrested.”
“Thanks Oscar.” Steve escorted his family out to the car. He scanned the street hoping to see Hanson…Hanson was nowhere to be seen.
“Alright gang, everyone in the car.”
//////////////////////////
Oscar watched as Steve pulled away from the curb, he watched for several minutes to make sure they weren’t followed, then he called the OSI first.
“This is Oscar Goldman…” He had tried to drop the speaking. “Col. Austin is on his way with his family. I want you to do everything you can to protect them…that includes arresting Jack Hanson should he show up.”
“Arrest him…for what?” The security guard knowing Hanson’s reputation was a bit nervous of arresting someone as important as Jack Hanson.
“For kidnapping Col. Austin’s son…for starters!” Oscar barked.
“Yes sir.” The guard agreed.
When he hung up he called the police. “I need to speak to the commissioner.” Oscar ordered.
“This is Oscar Goldman of the OSI.”
“I’ll put you right through.” The receptionist assured.
Within minutes Oscar had the Commissioner of police on the phone. “I need to put out an APB on Jack Hanson.” Oscar began.
“Hanson was just released from jail…as far as I know he’s committed no crime.” The Commissioner stated
“He kidnapped Col. Austin’s son. We have the boy back…in fact he’s in protective custody as we speak till Hanson is found.”
“I see.” The commissioner sighed. “I’ll get right on it.”
“I’d appreciate that.” Oscar hung up and waited for Steve to get back home.
////////////////////////////
At the OSI the guard didn’t even stop Steve’s car he just waved him on through.
“Any sign of Hanson?” Steve asked when he saw Rudy.
“No, not yet, come on Cassie, I have everything set up in my office. I thought you’d all be more comfortable there.” He turned to Steve. “Are you joining the search?”
Steve nodded “just as soon as I leave here…in fact, call and tell him I’m on my way.”
Rudy nodded and reached for the phone as Steve headed out the door.
/////////////////////////////
When he got back to the house Oscar was waiting on the sidewalk. “I thought I’d save you the trouble of getting out of the car so when Rudy called I decided to wait for you out here.” Oscar said as he climbed into the car.
“Have you heard anything?” Steve asked.
Oscar shook his head. “He must be hiding out.”
“I agree with that.” Steve nodded.
They had just pulled away from the curb when Steve’s car phone rang. “I’ll get it.” Oscar offered. “I gave the Police Commissioner this number.”
Steve nodded and let Oscar pick up the phone. “He’s been seen hanging around the school.” Oscar reported when he hung up.
“He’s probably waiting for Donald to go back to school.” Steve surmised as he headed for Don’s school.
/////////////////////////////////
Without a care in the world Hanson had simply gone to Don’s school where he knew the boy would eventually end up. ‘If I just hang around here…Don will come back and I’ll take him from there.
He was shocked when four police cars and Oscar and Steve pulled up to the curb. “Just hold it there Hanson!” Oscar ordered.
Hanson ducked into the school and the first classroom he could find. After he closed the door he turned and found himself face to face with a room full of kindergarteners. ‘Oh great!” he sighed
(5)
Oscar, Steve and Russ ran into the building but by the time they go inside Hanson was nowhere to be seen.
“Can I help you gentlemen” the principal approached them.
Oscar flashed is ID. “I’m sorry for the trouble” he began “but a man we have been looking for just ran in here, we don’t want anyone to get hurt…but…”
“I understand” the principal nodded. “Is there anything I can do to help?”
Oscar thought a moment. “I’d say just keep all of the kids in their class rooms for now…we might be able to hold off a hostage situation.”
“I’ll get right on that.” The principal headed for his office and called each class room.
//////////////////////////////
Hanson turned to the teacher. “Don’t even think about going near that phone.” He pointed his gun at her.
The teacher shook her head. “No I won’t, but can I get my children out of here?”
Hanson shook his head. “I don’t think so…They just might prove to be an asset.” He looked around at the children.
The teacher called the terrified children over to the carpet. “Come on kids…group time.” She called.
Hanson followed her to the other side of the room. “What are you doing?” he snapped.
“We’re having group time.” The teacher tried to explain. “It will be lunch time soon…most of these kids eat hot lunch…they will need to go to the cafeteria.”
“No one is going anywhere till I get what I want.” Hanson barked.
“And what do you want?” the teacher asked.
“I want a free trip out of here for starters.” Hanson’s voice was not so harsh
“I don’t know if that will be possible.” The teacher sighed. At that moment the phone in her room rang. Without thinking she ran to answer it.
As she picked up the receiver Hanson got nervous he grabbed the teacher by the arm. “I said no phone! He dragged her over to the door and shoved her out the door.
//////////////////////////
Oscar, Russ and Steve gathered outside the principal’s office. “I haven’t seen him at all.” Oscar muttered
“Neither have I.” Steve sighed. “I wonder if maybe he went out of the building and he’s no longer here.”
“Don’t count on it” the principal shouted as he ran out of his office. “I just called Miss Lind’s room. She no more picked up the phone when I heard someone shout ‘no phone’ then the phone went dead. She’s one of our kindergarten teachers.”
“What about the rest of the kids?” Oscar asked.
“They are all secured in their class rooms…I think they will be safer there.”
Oscar nodded his agreement. “Where is this kindergarten class room?”
“Down this hallway…come on I’ll show you.”
“Thanks Mr. Dobbs.” Russ started to follow along with Oscar and Steve.
They arrived at the classroom. Miss Lind was standing outside her door. She turned when she heard everyone coming down the hall.
“There’s a mad man in there with the children Mr. Dobbs he has the door locked.” Miss Lind cried.
Oscar started banging on the door. “Hanson!!!” He shouted.
“Is that you Goldman?” Hanson shouted.
“Come on Hanson…give it up. You’re in enough trouble…”
“I’m not giving up. I want you and Austin out of here so I can leave peaceful.”
“That’s not going to happen.” Oscar shouted back.
“If you don’t back off” Hanson shouted. “I’ll…I’ll…I’ll.”
You’ll what Mr. Hanson?”Mr. Dobbs spoke for the first time.
“Nothing” Hanson seemed taken aback by the strange voice.
“Look, I’m Stuart Dobbs. I’m the principal here. We’ll will give you whatever you want…but let the children go…I’m sure they are frightened.
“Not a chance Dobbs. I let them go and you come storming in here…”
“No we won’t…we promise…we just want the kids out of there.”
“As soon as Goldman and Austin leave” Hanson shouted through the door.
Oscar and Steve looked at each other and then at the principal. “That’s not going to happen.”
“I understand. I’m going to get the rest of the kids out of the school. I don’t want anymore hostages.”
“That sounds like a good idea.” Oscar nodded. “My people will help with the evacuation…and getting these kids someplace safe…”
“I appreciate your offer.” Dobbs accepted.
/////////////////////////
Hanson turned to the children. “It won’t be long kids.” He smiled
The kids simply stared at him.
“Where did you get that gun mister?” a boy named Cody asked.
“I use it in my work.” Hanson tried to stay pleasant.
“Where do you work?” A boy named Nathan asked.
“I work for the government.” Hanson smiled.
“Huh?” Cody and Nathan wondered.
“It’s kind of like the police.” Hanson tried to reassure the kids that he was a good guy.
“Can we play beauty parlor?” One of the girls asked.
Hanson gave a slight nod. ‘I better keep these kids entertained till Goldman gives up.’ He thought to himself.
“Yeah, I guess you can play beauty parlor.” Hanson sighed.
“Sit down” the girl instructed.
Not wanting to upset the children anymore than they already were. Hanson sat in the chair. The girl grabbed a pair of scissors and slowly began to cut Hanson’s hair
///////////////////////
In a little over an hour they had the school completely clear of all students and staff. The only ones in the building were Steve, Oscar, Russ and Dobbs.
“I think it would be best if you were to leave too.” Oscar turned to Dobbs.
“It’s my school…” He pointed to the door that led into the class room. “Those are my kids. I need to protect them.”
“I don’t think this is a wise choice.” Oscar tried to explain.
“I understand where you are coming from Mr. Goldman.” Dobbs hesitated “But you need to understand my side. I’m responsible for these kids till their parents pick them up at three. I want to make sure they are safe.”
Oscar nodded. “I understand. We’ll try to get all of those kids out…without incident.” Oscar assured.
“I’ll be in my office if you need me for anything.” Dobbs sighed. “I’ve got to call all of the parents in Miss Lind’s class…let them know what’s going on.”
“Thanks.” Oscar muttered as he went back to the situation.
////////////////////////
“Hey!” Hansen shouted. “Don’t cut my hair, besides I thought you kids were going to play.”
“But I want to cut your hair.” Katie replied.
By now the children were running all over the room grabbing anything they could get.
“Hey Katie” Cody called. “Here’s the ‘big people scissors’ I bet you can give him a really good hair cut with these.”
Hanson tried to stand up but Nathan had grabbed his gun and pointed it at him. “You better sit and let Katie cut your hair. She’s very good at it.”
Fearing the boy might accidently shoot the gun Hanson sat back down. ‘oh dear’ he thought what is my head going to look like’
“Hey mister.” Another boy called out “would you tie my shoe?”
“Not right now Barry, I have to do his hair, now hand me the rubber bands.” Katie said.
While Hansen sat getting his hair trimmed…the children were creating a mess
“I have some glue Katie You cut off to much hair…I think you better glue some back on.” Barry replied.
“I think your right.” Katie took the glue bottle from Barry and poured it over Hansen’s head then she picked up the hair that was on the floor and started putting it back on Hansen’s head.
“That still doesn’t look good.” Nathan made a face. He pushed a chair in front of the ‘art’ cupboard and got down the box containing glitter. “Here you go. This might make it look a little better.”
Katie took the glitter from Nathan. “What color should I use?”
Hansen cringed when he heard Barry say… “How bout all the colors?”
Katie smiled “I think that would be a good idea.”
“Look what I found.” Cody called. “I found the snack juice…grape.”
“I’m hungry.” Nathan piped up.
“We have to give our company his first.” Cody protested.
“That’s alright.” Hanson tried again to get up now that Katie was eyeing the juice.
“No, it would be very rude to not give you some first.” Nathan held him down.
“Here’s you glass.” Katie handed him a toy dish glass while Nathan…missing his target poured juiced all over Hansen’s trousers.
“That’s it!” Hansen shouted. “I’d rather be in the hole than in this room.” He got up and tried to charge his way to the door but tripped.
He looked down at his shoes…the laces had been tied together.
“I know how to tie now.” Barry smiled.
Hansen groaned as he picked himself up off the floor he untied his shoes and re tied them the right way.
“You don’t want to stay for snack?” Nathan looked at him.
“But we’re going to paint now.” Cody reached into the cupboard marked paint supplies. He took out a bottle of paint and poured it onto the table. All the kids started smearing it around the table then ran over to Hanson.
“Are you sure you don’t want to paint.” Nathan (with red paint all over his hands) reached up and grabbed at Hanson’s suit coat….
(6)
In a matter of seconds Hanson had all the children clamoring at him. “You really need to paint.” Nathan held up a brush full of paint and smacked Hanson on the cheek.
“That’s it!” Hanson cried. He ran for the door. Oscar and Steve were waiting on the other side
They couldn’t help but laugh. Hansen stood in the doorway. Glue and glitter running down one side of his head, on the other side had tiny pig-tails, paint was smeared on his face and his expensive suit had red hand prints all over it. The front of his suit was wet.
“You know Hansen. I haven’t had that problem since pre-school” Steve howled as he pointed to Hanson’s wet front.
“I surrender” was all Hanson said.
Oscar grabbed Hanson by the arm. “You’re in some big trouble” he reminded.
“I don’t care…just get me out of here!!!” Hanson moaned. “Get me out of this school…away from those kids…”
At that moment Katie peeked out of the room. “Are you sure you don’t want snack?” She shook a bag of animal crackers. “We’re already to eat now.”
Hanson turned white. “Get her away from me. She’s the one who did this to me!” He pointed to his hair. “Oh please don’t let her near me.” Hanson pleaded.
Oscar and Steve exchanged glances while the principal took Katie by the hand and escorted her over to her mother who stood outside with the other parents waiting for the safe release of their children.
By the time they got Hanson to the car he was blabbering about anything and everything but none of it made any sense.
“Sounds like the next time we want to interrogate someone we just bring them to Miss Lind’s classroom for an hour or so.” Steve laughed.
“It…it…it’s not funny.” Hanson’s face aside from the paint, glitter and glue now dried to it was very white. “It’s worse than the hole…”
“Aw come on Hanson, you just have to know how to deal with kids.” Steve chided.
“Austin…you don’t know what they are capable of.” Hanson shuddered.
“What happened to your hair?” Oscar asked.
“It was that Katie…she wanted to play beauty parlor…Look what she did to me!”
Oscar and Steve burst out laughing.
By the time they got to the OSI…Hanson still hadn’t composed himself, in fact he was worse.
“I don’t know what to do for him” Oscar spoke. “I thought he was getting better when we were in the car…but now all he does is ramble.”
“I’ll take him down to the lab…maybe Rudy can come up with something.” Steve suggested then I’m going home, I want to check on Donald.”
“Donald is here…remember?” Oscar reminded.
“Oh yeah, that’s right. Maybe Rudy better come down here….keep an eye on Hanson while I get Cassie and the children home.
“Sounds good to me” Oscar agreed.
/////////////////////////////
Later that night Steve sat by the fire “Are the kids asleep?” Steve asked when Cassie joined him handing him a drink.
“Yes finally.”
“How was Don?” Steve asked
“He seems ok. He said Hanson tried to tell him lies about you.” Cassie added
“Lies, what kind of lies?” Steve pressed
“That’s what I asked” Cassie continued He said he told him about your bionics.”
Steve cringed. “Really?”
“Don didn’t believe it.” Cassie finished.
“Well that’s good.” Steve nodded. He was going to say more but they were interrupted by the door bell.
“I wonder who that is….this time of night” Steve rose to answer the door. “Oscar, Rudy” he greeted. “What are you doing here?”
“We thought you might like to know about Hanson.” Rudy replied.
“At this point…I don’t care what happens to him. He told Don about my bionics.”
“That could be a problem.” Oscar muttered.
“Don didn’t believe him.” Steve explained.
“It could still be a problem…but we’ll deal with that later. Hanson was admitted to Fairview hospital tonight.”
“The psychiatric hospital?” Cassie asked.
Rudy nodded “nothing I did seemed to help. He has a strong fear of children…he’s under close guard.”
“Does he know where he is?” Steve asked.
Oscar shook his head. “I don’t think so.”
“I kind of feel sorry for him.” Cassie gave a slight frown.
‘Me too…sort of…” Steve agreed.
They were interrupted when Donald came down the stairs. “Mom…dad…” He called.
“We’re right here honey.” Cassie called.
“Can I ask you something?” Donald asked.
“Of course, you can ask us anything?” Steve assured.
“What Mr. Hanson said…is it true…about you…being…what did he call it…bionic?”
Cassie, Steve and Oscar looked at each other. Oscar gave Steve a slight nod.
Slowly Steve nodded. “Yes son it’s true.” Steve responded.
“Is that how you graded out test papers so fast?”
Steve flashed back to that day at the school. He had run behind and wanted to get the papers corrected before the kids came back. Again he nodded.
“I tried telling Jake and Bobby…they didn’t believe me…Mr. Grim did though…was it my fault he tried to hurt you?”
“No Don. He would have hurt me regardless.” Steve again assured.
Don turned to Jaime.” Could I have some juice before I go back to bed?”
“Of course you can.” Cassie led him to the kitchen.”Do you want apple or grape?” She asked.
//////////////////////////////
“I don’t know if I like this very well.” Oscar said.
“You gave your approval.” Steve reminded.
“I know. I just said I don’t know if I like it very well.” Oscar restated.
“I don’t think too many people would take him seriously.” Steve added.
“Mr. Grim did.” Oscar reminded.
“Grim was a Soviet Operative.” Steve also reminded “I don’t think Don will be running into to many of those. Jaime and I keep a pretty close watch on him…mostly because of the autisim.”
“I guess you’re right. Just be careful.”
“I will…by the way, do you think Hanson will ever get out of the psychiatric hospital?”
“I don’t see that happening in the foreseeable future.” Oscar stated as he made his way to the door.
“I’ll see you tomorrow.” Steve called as Oscar and Rudy made their way down the porch steps.
Oscar gave him a slight nod; he and Rudy got in his car and drove off.
///////////////////////////
“They left?” Cassie asked as she came back from putting Don back in bed.
“Yeah they just left.” Steve closed the door. “Did Don say anymore?”
“No, I told him how important it is that he never tells anybody…that they could hurt you if they knew, the same way Mr. Grim did.”
“He accepted that?” Steve asked.
“He seemed to.” Cassie kissed him on the cheek. “Why don’t we go to bed?”
Steve nodded and they headed upstairs they first peeked in on Sara who was snoring softly in her crib. Then they tiptoed into Donald’s room. To their relief Don was fast asleep a ring of grape juice still around his lips.
“I think he’ll be ok.” Cassie smiled as she closed his door. “He’s a pretty good kid.”
“I know he is.” Steve smiled back. “And you’re right…he’ll be fine.”
