Pt. 7
During Mark and Jesse's absence, Amanda waited in the doctors'
lounge in order to keep abreast of the situation in Lancaster.
She saw Mark as he stepped out of the helicopter. She caught a
brief glimpse of Steve when he gave Mark the blood samples and
paperwork. Amanda was sure that she saw a bandage on Steve's
chest, and fear for his safety immediately overwhelmed her. She
thought to herself:
"Bentley, get hold of yourself. You knew that Steve was
injured; you should have expected the bandage. He looked tired,
but OK. You know that you have to be calm. Mark is nervous enough
for all of us. The tests will show that Waters is right, and
Steve will come home. By the end of today, he'll be home where he
belongs. I just hope that Mark is OK when he gets back. Maybe I'd
better see Dr. Martines. Steve will probably need to talk with
her. Maybe they both will."
Amanda left the lounge and went to Dr. Martines' office. She
opened the door and found the doctor engrossed in the coverage.
She smiled and said in a light voice:
"Aha! Everybody gets caught up in news stories like this.
You know that the highest number of pizza deliveries was recorded
on the day that the cops chased that white Bronco all over
creation."
Martines turned and smiled: "Hi, Amanda. I can't help
myself. Of course, I can say that I'm watching for medical
purposes. Steve will probably need to talk when this is
over."
"That's why I'm here, Elena. I'm sure that he will. You
might have another problem."
"What?"
"In this case, who. Mark was really upset this morning and
said that he'd never forgive Steve for going up there. I don't
think he really means it, but there will probably be some
friction between them. Jess and I will play peacemakers, but you
might want to talk with Mark, too."
"Thanks for letting me know, Amanda. Steve is going to be
troubled enough, I'd hate to have Mark upset and showing it.
Those two support and strengthen each other."
"You're right." Amanda looked toward the window:
"Elena, I hear the helicopter with Mark and Jesse. I'd
better go to them. We have a lot of blood to analyze and the
sooner we get at it the better. I'll talk to you later, when Mark
and Jess go back to Lancaster."
"Bye, Amanda."
Amanda met Mark and Jesse at the helipad entrance to the
hospital. Jesse carried the blood samples and paperwork from the
prisoners in the clinical trials. Mark carried the samples from
Steve and the Suttons and the shiv. When she saw two cases of
blood samples, Amanda looked at Mark. He said:
"Later, Amanda. I want to get these to the path lab and
start the analyses."
When they reached the lab Amanda started to unpack the prisoners'
blood samples and Jesse sorted the medical files. Amanda asked:
"Mark, what are we looking for?"
"Some samples should show plasma HIV-1 RNA levels below 400
copies/ml. Some should show higher levels. Waters tells me that
all of the samples will show the higher levels, because all of
the participants are getting the placebo." Mark handed her a
sheet of paper and said: "Here are the details of the
trials."
Just before Amanda started the tests, she looked closely at the
other case of blood samples and asked:
"Mark, what's in the other case?"
"Blood samples from Steve and the Suttons. The shiv is what
Avery Sutton used to cut Steve."
"Mark, why do you need these?"
"Amanda, later."
"No, Mark, now. Why do you need them?"
Mark turned from her and Jesse answered: "Steve was almost
raped. When the riot started the Suttons grabbed Steve. Waters
and his men broke into the office where Sutton had taken Steve,
just as they stopped beating him and just before old man Sutton
started to rape him. Once the Suttons were finished, they
intended to let other cons have him. Steve said that there was
blood around."
"Oh my God." Amanda turned again to the prisoners'
blood samples and started the analyses.
"Mark," said Jess, "I'm going to take these
samples and the shiv to the lab. They'll be done before we
leave."
"Thanks, Jess." Mark sat next to Amanda and said:
"Amanda, run the tests twice. Make sure that you're right,
especially if they don't show what Waters thinks."
"I intended to, Mark."
Jesse returned to the path lab where they waited for the results.
*****************************
While Steve slept, Waters and Johanson continued their
conversation.
"Waters, when did you find out about this?"
"About two months ago. We didn't want to let on until we had
some proof."
"Why not ask to see me?"
"For all we knew, you could have been in on it. You'd say
all the right things but not do anything."
"Did you engineer the riot last week?"
"Of course."
"And Evans knew that you were going to rat him out."
"You're catching on. You ain't no slow, dumb warden,"
Waters answered with a grin.
"Thanks. I'd like to think that we're more intelligent these
days."
Steve began to stir. He awoke and saw the faces of Waters and
Johanson. He inquired:
"What time is it?"
Johanson answered: "2:30. Why?"
"Just wondering. I don't suppose that either of you has a
candy bar?"
Waters replied: "Here. Are you hungry?"
"Yeah. Thanks, Waters."
"You're welcome, but don't eat it yet." Waters shouted
for Jones and told him to bring in Steve's lunch. When Jones
entered, Waters said:
"Fresh from the prison kitchen. Peanut butter and jam and a
carton of milk."
Steve took the sandwich and said: "I like peanut butter and
jam. Thanks."
Steve took a bite and said:
"What's going on outside?"
"Nothing," answered Johanson. "Don't worry,
nobody's going to do anything. I've already told Page to let this
play out. He's looking for Pike and Lincoln now. If the blood
samples show what you say, Jonah, I'll make sure that they enjoy
a vacation in one of our establishments." Just then another
gunshot shattered the quiet and Steve shuddered.
Waters questioned: "Sloan, what's the matter?"
"I just keep thinking that it might not be one of the
Suttons."
"It is. None of the prisoners wants this to fail. Funny, I
thought that you'd be happy about this."
"Why? I want them to pay, but I'd be satisfied with, say,
another fifty years on their sentences." Steve grinned.
Waters and Johanson laughed and Waters said:
"Oh, a funny man. Sloan, tell me something, didn't your
instincts tell you that something wasn't quite right here?"
Steve finished the sandwich and unwrapped the candy bar.
"Yeah. About fifteen minutes from here I got this weird
feeling. After I arrived I was going to decide if I would
interview you. I noticed that the lockdown had been lifted but
decided to see you anyway. The guard had just admitted me when
all hell broke loose. I wish I'd turned around."
Waters chuckled: "I'll bet you do."
Steve started to get up and Waters took hold of his shoulders and
pushed him back. "Where do you think you're going?"
"The john, if you don't mind."
When Steve was back in bed, Johanson asked:
"Sloan, do the cuts and lashes still hurt?"
"Yes, but considering what was about to happen, they're
nothing."
Waters picked up the remote and turned on the television. Peter
Trent was just finishing a profile of Waters. Mark's picture came
on the screen and Waters turned up the volume so they could hear:
"We now have a profile of Dr. Mark Sloan, chief of Internal
Medicine at Community General Hospital and father of hostage Lt.
Steve Sloan. Dr. Sloan was raised in Illinois and he settled in
California after the War. His wife Kathryn died almost eleven
years ago. Besides his son Steve, Dr. Sloan has a daughter Carol,
who now lives in Seattle. Dr. Sloan has had a long and
distinguished career. He has received Medical Society awards for
excellence in medicine and numerous public service awards. He
became a consultant to the Los Angeles Police Department about
thirteen years ago and, with his son, has solved many
high-profile murders. Several years ago, he was falsely convicted
of murder following a brutal attack on his son, in a tale of
revenge and greed. This reporter has followed the careers of the
Sloans for many years and has come to admire their integrity.
They also make the best ribs this side of Texas. We return you
now to Joyce McGill at the prison in Lancaster. Joyce, have there
been any new developments?"
Waters turned off the television and turned to Steve and said:
"Your old man sure has a lot of respect in the community.
What about you?"
"What do you mean?"
"Does he have your respect?"
"Yes. Also my love."
"Good."
Steve drifted off to sleep again, and Waters and Johanson turned
the TV back on to watch the coverage.
******************************
The clock in the Community General pathology lab showed 5:00 p.m.
Amanda had just finished the final test on the prisoners' blood
samples. She looked up and said:
"Mark, I've tested each sample twice."
Mark inhaled deeply and turned to her. "Amanda, tell
me."
"Mark, Jess, Waters was right. There is no way that the
patients selected to receive the medication actually received it.
I've checked and rechecked."
Jess said: "Do you think that the blood samples were from
other people?"
"No. I checked that first. There's enough information in the
paperwork for me to know that the samples are from the patients
indicated. Mark, now what?"
Mark answered: "Jess, do we have the results from the tests
on the blood samples and the shiv?"
Just as Mark finished the sentence, the lab telephone rang. Jesse
picked it up and said:
"Path lab, Dr. Travis speaking. Fine. Have a tech bring the
paperwork here pronto. Thanks. That was the head med tech in the
lab. The other tests are finished and Steve is clean. They'll
want to do a follow-up in six months. The tests on the Suttons
came up clean, too. The shiv is clean but, even if it had been
contaminated, the virus would have died before we could test it.
Steve will be fine, Mark."
Mark let out a breath and said: "Let's call Herrera. He's
still up at the prison, but he can reach his men. Earlier today I
heard him say that he was only interested in Steve's life. We'll
see." He dialed the number for Herrera's phone and heard:
"Herrera. Who is this?"
"Jack, it's Mark Sloan. The tests are done and Waters is
right. There is no doubt that the doctor has been withholding the
medication from the prisoners. Since you're an outsider, get your
men and anyone else you think can be trusted up there. I gave
Waters my word that I'd fix this. You damn well better not let me
down. I'm going to get the helicopter pilot now and take the
paperwork back. Be ready. I want my son back in one piece."
"Mark, I'm ready. I've had men up here for some time. I have
a buddy at CHP who will help. There are other 'straight arrows'
in law enforcement besides Steve, you know. When you land and
tell McGill about the results my men and about twenty CHP
officers will take control of the towers and the rest of the
prison. What about Steve's tests?"
"Nothing. They'll do a follow-up on Steve in six months, but
there shouldn't be a problem, unless something goes wrong
now."
"It won't. Waters respects you and he's given his word to
the prisoners. He won't jeopardize this now. Besides, I don't
think he's interested in hurting Steve. Bye, Mark."
"Bye, Jack."
The tech from the lab arrived with the paperwork on Steve and the
Suttons just as Mark hung up. Mark gathered the papers together
and put them in Amanda's briefcase and said: "Let's go find
that pilot. I think he's waiting in the cafeteria."
They made haste to the cafeteria and found the pilot, the
reporter Hauge and the camera operator Tucker. Mark said:
"We're finished. Waters was right. Hauge, what are you doing
here? You're not going to try to come with me?"
"No, Dr. Sloan. I'm here to do a report for Waters. He's
been watching and we want him to know that you're on your way.
You'll give the information to McGill at the prison. Good luck.
Let's go, guys."
They went to the helipad and Hauge spoke to Trent. Trent said to
go ahead and Tucker turned on her camera:
"This is Marty Hauge, reporting from Community General
Hospital. Dr. Sloan has finished the analysis of the blood
samples from the prisoners. He and Dr. Travis will leave shortly
to return to Lancaster. Dr. Sloan, are you ready?"
"Yes, Mr. Hauge. Jonah, we're on the way."
Tucker panned to show Mark and Jesse entering the helicopter.
Then it lifted off and headed north. Hauge signed off and sent
the coverage back to McGill.
Pt. 8
Waters and Johanson saw the broadcast from Community General and
looked at each other. Waters said:
"Well, it's time for the verdict. When Dr. Sloan gets up
here, make sure that your men don't go nuts."
"They won't. Just let Sloan go."
"I will."
"No matter what the results show?"
"No matter what. I know that his old man won't fake results.
That's why I wanted him. I just know that he'll say that I'm
right."
"Frankly, Jonah, so do I. I'm sure that Page has found Pike
and Lincoln by now and has them tucked away nicely."
Johanson gestured to Steve and said:
"Shall we wake him?"
"Yeah. It's time. He can dress and get ready to go
home."
Waters gently awakened Steve and said:
"Your old man is on the way back. He'll announce the results
to McGill when he gets here. Get up and get dressed. You're on
your way home."
Steve arose and dressed. They went to the window to watch for the
Air6 copter.
Outside the prison, Joyce McGill picked up the story:
"Ladies and gentlemen, Dr. Mark Sloan, father of hostage Lt.
Steve Sloan, is returning to Lancaster. The tests have been
completed and we will receive the information from Dr. Sloan. At
that time, we expect Jonah Waters to release the hostages. I'm
sure that Dr. Sloan is eager for the release of his son. If you
have just gotten home from work and joined us, I'll recap the
day's drama for you. At 10:00 this morning..."
Nobody saw Jack Herrera and his CHP buddy, Jim Hill, walk out of
camera and microphone range. Herrera pointed to several CHP
officers and said:
"When Sloan makes the announcement, you guys take down the
tower guards. We don't want any of them to get trigger-happy now.
This is almost over. Let's keep it bloodless. The rest of you, be
ready to take over when Waters turns over control. For your ears
only right now: Waters was right. Let's go."
Herrera and Hill had chosen their men well. They managed to get
into position without being noticed, while everyone was watching
the television coverage.
By the time the officers were ready, the Air6 chopper arrived.
Inside the medical unit Steve, Waters and Johanson watched it
land. Steve saw his father and Jesse get out and walk toward
Joyce McGill. She turned to them and spoke:
"Dr. Sloan has just arrived and we're about to hear the
results of the tests. Then we'll see the end to today's drama.
Dr. Sloan, what did the tests reveal?"
"The results of the tests show that Waters was right. There
is no doubt that the prisoners who were supposed to receive the
pills containing the medication under study did not. I will
pursue this until I know that Dr. Lincoln and anyone else
connected with this are in custody. I will see them in a
cell." Mark looked directly into the camera: "Jonah,
I've done as you asked. You are right. Give me back my son."
Mark then walked toward the entrance to the prison. Jesse hung
back waiting to give Herrera the results of the tests.
Just as Mark released the test results Herrera signaled. As
planned, his officers quickly and quietly took over the guard
towers. The rest stood ready to enter the prison and bring the
standoff to an end. Jonah turned to Steve and Johanson and picked
up the phone. McGill heard her cell phone ring and she answered:
"This is McGill, Mr. Waters. You have heard Dr. Sloan. Will
you now release Lt. Sloan and Mr. Johanson?"
"Yes. We'll be out shortly." Waters hung up and said to
James and Jones: "Spread the word. We won. We're taking
Sloan and Johanson out of here. They get out alive."
Johanson said: "Jonah, I stay. We'll take Sloan out and then
go to my office."
"All right. Let's go."
By the time that they reached the door, James and Jones had
returned with several of Waters' men. Waters said:
"We escort Sloan to the entrance so that he can leave. When
he's outside our work will be finished and we surrender."
Nobody realized that a fifth shot was never fired. Nobody saw the
prisoner hiding in the shadows. As they walked out the door the
figure lunged at Steve with a bloody shiv. "Sloan, you
finally pay. And pay big." Waters pushed Steve to James and
Jones, and grabbed the final Sutton and struggled with him. He
turned to his men and Johanson and said: "Get him out of
here. NOW." Steve hesitated a second and James grabbed him
just as several of Sutton's buddies came out of hiding. They were
all carrying bloody bangers and rushed toward Steve. James, Jones
and Johanson shielded Steve and ran with him toward the entrance.
Herrera's men opened it as they arrived. They pulled Steve
through and shoved the others out of harm's way. Herrera signaled
and his men entered the grounds, rifles at the ready. Sutton's
friends stopped and surrendered. One officer aimed his gun at
Sutton, but before he could fire, Sutton stabbed Waters in the
heart and he sank to the ground. The officer fired and Sutton
fell dead. Steve had turned just in time to see it. He bowed his
head and suppressed his emotions. Then he felt his father's touch
and turned to him. Mark held Steve's shoulders and said:
"You're all right?"
"I will be."
Jesse had given Herrera and Hill the test results and joined Mark
and Steve. Mark said:
"Let's go."
As they walked toward the helicopter, McGill approached them:
"Dr. Sloan, is ."
Suddenly she lowered her mike and turned toward the photographer
who had turned the camera: "Not now. We'll hope that Dr.
Sloan will talk to Hauge at the hospital. Let's leave them
alone." She walked away and started a recap closer to the
action.
Steve, Mark and Jesse got into the helicopter and, at 6:30 p.m.,
it lifted off. As the chopper flew back to Community General,
Steve started to feel the effects of the day and his head drooped
to Mark's shoulder. Steve noticed that his father allowed him to
rest his head but stiffened, and Steve felt a chill. He closed
his eyes.
*****************************
Just before the helicopter landed at Community General, Mark
turned to Steve and woke him:
"Steve, we're here. Wake up."
Steve awoke and saw anger in his father's eyes, anger directed at
him. The chopper landed and they alighted. Steve looked up and
saw Amanda and Dr. Martines waiting for them. He walked to Dr.
Martines and said softly:
"Help. I think I've lost him. Tomorrow?"
She replied: "All right. Jesse's going to keep you here
tonight. I'll see you in your room tomorrow morning."
As Mark walked toward the hospital entrance, Hauge approached and
said:
"How did it go?"
Mark walked by him and entered the hospital. Steve approached
Hauge and said:
"Today has been particularly hard on my father. I'll answer
your questions."
Hauge nodded and spoke to the studio. He signaled Tucker to bring
the camera live and, when the red light was on, raised his mike:
"Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen. This is Marty Hauge
reporting from Community General Hospital. Dr. Sloan, Lt. Sloan
and Dr. Travis have just returned from Lancaster and the
lieutenant has agreed to answer a few questions. Lt. Sloan, what
happened when your father announced the results of the
tests?"
"Police officers under the command of Captain Jack Herrera,
LAPD, and Captain Jim Hill, CHP, took over the guard towers. Then
they positioned themselves to take over the prison until the
situation could be assessed. As Waters and Johanson started to
take me to the prison entrance, one of the prisoners lunged at me
with a bloody shank. Waters struggled with him. Then several
other prisoners came at me. Two of Waters' men and Warden
Johanson shielded me until we reached the entrance. After I was
outside I turned back just as the prisoner stabbed Waters in the
heart. He died immediately. I'd very much like to thank Channel 6
for allowing us the use of Air6. It was a great help in bringing
this to an end."
"You're welcome, Lt. Sloan. We only wanted to help. Can you
tell us what your father said to you upon your release?"
"Mr. Hauge, I won't answer that question. It is between my
father and me."
"Lt. Sloan, our listeners heard several shots at the prison.
Do you know what they were?"
"Yes, but I think that it would be better if the Department
of Corrections releases that information."
"Will you at least tell us how you feel?"
"Mr. Hauge, I'm tired. I'm grateful to have survived. I want
to thank my father, Dr. Travis and Dr. Bentley. If you'll excuse
me, Dr. Travis is signaling to me."
"Good-bye Lt. Sloan. There you have it, ladies and
gentlemen. I have just received word that Dan Page, negotiator
for the Department of Corrections, will give a press conference
in five minutes. We return you to Joyce McGill in
Lancaster."
Hauge signaled the helicopter to return to the station; then he
and Tucker headed for their car.
At 7:00 p.m., June 24, Jesse escorted Steve to the Community
General ER in order to examine him. Steve looked for his father
and noticed that Mark was not to be found. Amanda came up to him
and said:
"He left immediately. Steve, he's angry."
"I know. I felt it on the way home. I've lost him."
"No, Steve," said Jesse, "I don't think so. He was
angry this morning but also afraid for you. He did say that you
and he are going to have a long talk."
"I don't think so, Jess. You didn't see the anger in his
eyes when we got out of the chopper. I'm surprised that he even
helped."
"Well, he said that he wouldn't, that he didn't care what
happened to you," continued Amanda. "That little
charade lasted for about thirty seconds, until Jess called his
bluff. Steve, he still loves you. There will be some friction for
a little while, but Jess and I will be with you. That's also why
Dr. Martines met the helicopter with me. She'll help you through
this. Mark, too. It might take a little time, but things will
settle down."
"Maybe. Thanks. Jess, what kind of exam are you going to
do."
"Everything. I know what you told us at the prison. Tell me
the truth now. Were you raped?"
"No. That answer was the truth."
Jesse noticed that Steve's wounds were bleeding again.
"Here, Steve, sit down. I want to change the dressings on
the cuts and the lashes. Then I'm going to admit you."
"I won't fight you. I have nowhere else to go. Besides, Dr.
Martines expects me to be here in the morning."
Steve felt light-headed so he lay back on the exam table. Jesse
took his blood pressure and found it normal. He questioned:
"Steve, did you eat while you were being held?"
"Yeah, a sandwich, milk and a candy bar. Why?"
"I want to find out what's making you woozy. Did you lose
much blood in the attack?"
"Some, but I don't know if it was enough to cause this. I
think we can chalk it up to adrenaline."
Amanda entered with a wheel chair, and Jesse said:
"Sit. I'll take you upstairs and get you settled. Then I
want you to eat."
"No food, Jess."
"Steve, you need something in you."
"I won't be able to keep it down. Don't bother."
"All right. I'll give you a light sedative and let you drift
off. Tomorrow, though, I want you to eat breakfast."
As Steve sat down in the wheelchair he said: "Tomorrow, I
will. Onward, James." Steve grinned.
"Yes, Sir, Lieutenant, Sir." Jesse grinned.
"Steve," said Amanda, "I'll be up in a minute. I
have to call the kids."
"Okay. Say hi to them?"
"Of course."
Amanda called the kids and had a quick conversation. Then she
left on her real mission. She went to the hospital parking garage
and saw exactly what she expected. There, in his car, head on the
steering wheel, sat Dr. Mark Sloan. She slid into the passenger
seat and said:
"Congratulations. You've hurt him. Happy now?"
"Yes."
"Good. Now that you've played your little game of tit for
tat you can go back in there, where you belong. He's in
234."
"Get out, Amanda. I'm going home."
"Mark, what is the matter with you?"
"Amanda, I fear for him whenever he leaves for work. He went
so long without ever being hurt. Now, it seems that there's a
crisis every year. Sometimes I wish he'd leave the Force. When I
saw him come out of that prison . running for his life . God
knows I'm glad he's home. And you were right earlier today. I
could never have forgiven myself if I hadn't done the tests. I'm
going to calm down and get some rest. Then Steve and I can start
fresh tomorrow. I do want to have that talk, though."
"Mark, I told him that you were upset and wanted to have a
long talk. He doesn't think it will happen. As he sees it, he's
lost you."
"Amanda, please."
"All right. I'm going up to his room for a little
while."
Amanda got out of the car and went back into the hospital. Mark
started the engine and drove off the hospital campus.
Pt. 9
Amanda entered Steve's room before he drifted off. She pulled a
chair next to the bed and sat:
"Hi, there. I thought you'd be asleep by now."
"Can't. I keep thinking about everything that happened.
About fifteen minutes before I reached the prison, my every
instinct told me that something was not right. I should have
turned around but I thought to decide after I got there and
talked to the guard. Then it was too late. No wonder dad hates
me."
"Steve, he doesn't hate you. He's upset."
"Yeah, he made that perfectly clear when he woke me up in
the chopper. His eyes, Amanda, his eyes."
"Steve, he was waiting in his car and we talked. He let his
emotions take over and he played tit for tat."
"Is he still here?"
"He was until five minutes ago."
Steve shrugged: "That says it all."
At this point Jesse came in:
"Amanda, keeping the patient awake?"
"No, Jesse, trying to calm him down so he can fall
asleep."
"Steve, do you need something stronger?"
"No, thanks Jess. Uh, Jess, could I stay with you for a few
days after you release me?"
"Why?"
"I think that's pretty obvious. I've lost him."
"Steve," Jess replied, "don't worry about that
now. Tomorrow's another day. You'll both be calmer and you can
talk."
"Jess, please."
"Steve, of course you can stay with me, I just don't think
that it will be necessary. Amanda and I will be here to see you
both through this. It will be all right."
Steve yawned. "I don't see how. 'Night, guys."
They replied: "Good night, Steve."
Steve nodded and fell asleep. Jesse pulled a second chair close
to the bed. He and Amanda decided to sit with Steve for a couple
of hours. Then they would leave and return early the next
morning.
********************
Mark Sloan pulled into his driveway at about 8:30. After he got
out of the car, he picked up his mail, entered his home and went
directly to his bedroom. He undressed down to T-shirt and
skivvies and lay on the bed. He tossed and turned for about a
half-hour and then fell into a fitful sleep. He awoke often,
always thinking of his son, and he would remember Amanda's words
to him: "As he sees it, he's lost you." Then he would
think again: "I can't go back tonight. Tomorrow when I'm
calmer, and the anger is gone." He finally got up, took a
sedative and crawled into bed. He slept.
******************************
At 7:00 a.m. Mark Sloan's alarm went off. He reached to shut it
off and his eyes drifted to the family pictures on his dresser.
He arose, showered and dressed. He had a quick breakfast and
picked up his brief case and a change of clothes for Steve. He
decided that he would check his patients first and then spend
time with his son. His mind wandered back to the previous night
on the helipad. "I wonder what he'll say. I wonder if he'll
even let me stay with him. Maybe I shouldn't have been so angry.
I know it's his job. Maybe my little temper tantrum has done what
I was sure his job would do . tear us apart." He shook his
head slowly and left.
At that same hour, as Steve was awakening, nurse Enrique
Fernandez entered room 234 with breakfast. He set the tray down
and dropped the sides of the bed:
"Good morning, Lt. Sloan. I have a message from Dr.
Travis."
"What?"
Fernandez raised the bed and set the tray in front of Steve,
saying as he did so:
"He called about fifteen minutes ago. He asked me to tell
you that he and Dr. Bentley intended to be back earlier this
morning so they would be here when you woke up. They both
overslept. He also said that you are to eat this breakfast, all
of it. He should be here in about thirty minutes and
Dr. Bentley at about 8:00."
"Thank you. I think that I can manage the breakfast."
"Good, Lieutenant. I'll be back later. I have a couple of
older patients that I need to check on."
"Fine. I'll be okay."
Steve thought to himself: "Jess must have ordered this. He's
almost as bad as dad." He dropped his head and thought of
his father. "Maybe I've finally done it. Maybe he's been
frightened once too often. I wonder if he'll come today." He
turned his attention to his breakfast: hotcakes, eggs, juice,
milk and coffee. He was just finishing when he heard the door
open. He looked up, hoping to see his father, and was mildly
disappointed when Jesse entered.
"Hi, Jess. Thanks for breakfast. This was your doing, wasn't
it?"
"Yes. I knew that you'd be hungry. You don't look overjoyed
to see me."
"Jess, I am glad to see you. I was just hoping ."
"Just hoping that I was your dad."
"Yeah. I don't know why I cling to the hope that he'll
come."
"Steve, he'll be here. Do you feel stronger, now?"
"Yes, a lot."
Steve and Jesse passed the time until about 7:55, when Jesse's
pager went off. He stood up and said:
"Well, duty calls. Amanda should be here shortly. Dr.
Martines said she'd come in at 9:00. Something about that time
amusing you ."
Steve chuckled: "Yeah, she would. See you later?"
"Yes, Steve." Jesse left the room just as Amanda
entered. She walked up to Steve and gave him a peck on the cheek:
"Hi, sailor."
"Sailor?"
"Well, you know how clichés are." With a twinkle in
her eye and a grin on her face, Amanda continued:
"You'd rather I say 'Hi, pig?"
"Oink, oink," replied Steve with overwhelming sarcasm.
"Do you feel better this morning?"
"Yes."
"I intended to come back earlier so that someone would be
here when you woke up. I'm sorry, Steve."
"The nurse told me. I understand. Thanks for coming now.
When Jess came in, I was so hoping that it was dad, that I think
I hurt Jesse's feelings."
"I doubt it, Steve."
"What did dad say last night?"
"Not much. I thought that I could talk him into staying with
you, at least for a couple of hours. I was wrong."
"That's okay. Thanks for trying."
"Steve, Dr. Martines can help."
"She can help with the aftermath of the riot, but not even
she can work miracles."
"Miracles? Did I hear someone ask for a miracle?"
Steve looked up and smiled: "Hi, Dr. Martines. Jess said
that you were coming at 9:00, our favorite hour for a
rendezvous."
"I was. When I came in this morning he saw me and said that
you were upset. I thought that I'd see if you wanted to
talk."
Amanda arose and took her leave: "I'll leave. You two should
talk. Steve, take care; everything will be all right."
"Bye, Amanda. Thanks for trying last night and thanks for
coming back."
The door swung shut and Dr. Martines inquired:
"Steve, what troubles you most, the riot or your dad's
attitude? Did you fight?"
"We had a disagreement. He didn't want me to go. I felt I
had to. But I had no idea that he was so angry with me. Just
before we landed back here last night he woke me up, and you
should have seen his eyes. When I was at my worst as a teenager
and driving mom and him crazy, I never saw such anger in his
eyes. Last night he left without saying good-bye and he's not
here today."
"It's early, Steve. I'm sure that he'll be here. I do not
believe that the man you told me about only a year ago would ever
leave you alone. I told Amanda yesterday that you two strengthen
and sustain each other."
"We always have. I love him. I just wonder if he still loves
me."
Martines let that remark pass and continued: "Steve, is
there anything about the riot you want to talk about?"
"Yes. It was horrible, at least at first. Remember the
Suttons?"
"Oh, no. Did you run into them?"
"Worse. Did you see the coverage yesterday?"
"Yes, I admit that spent the whole day watching. What's that
grin for?"
Steve wagged his eyebrows: "Well, well. Even you were caught
up in it."
"Yes, Steve, even me. As I told Amanda, I was watching to
keep tabs on you. I thought that we might see each other."
"Uh huh." Steve turned serious. "I'm glad you did.
I don't have to explain what that was all about. What you don't
know is that Waters intended that the cop would be a narc. He
entrusted Sutton with starting that riot, but only after the cop
was in the administrative offices. When Sutton found out that I
was coming, he changed the plans. He started the riot early and
grabbed me. He and his sons took me to an office and cut and beat
me and intended to gang rape me. Once they had finished, they
were going to let anyone who wanted me have me. If I got out
alive, I'd be a mess. I doubt that even you could have brought me
back from that. I was lucky that Waters found me when he
did."
****************************
While Steve was talking with Dr. Martines, Mark entered the
hospital and walked right into Jesse and Amanda. Jesse said:
"I'm glad you're here, Mark. When are you going to see
Steve?"
"Later, Jess. I have a few patients to see. Then I thought
I'd spend some time with him."
"Are you still angry?" asked Amanda.
"No, but I think that it's too late. Is he still hurt?"
Amanda responded: "Yes, but he thinks he's responsible for
the friction. Mark, you hurt each other. You have to talk it out.
Just so you know, Jesse and I will be on you two until you settle
it. What's in the sports bag?"
"Just a change of clothes. I thought that he might want
clean clothes to go home in. Maybe it will help purge the terror
so it won't haunt him. You are going to release him today, aren't
you, Jess? I mean, there's nothing physically wrong?"
"Good idea, Mark," replied Jesse. "Yes, I'll
release him later. He's afraid that he won't have a home to go
to."
"Damn."
Amanda continued: "Mark, Dr. Martines got here early today
and she's with him now. I think that you should see your patients
and then go to him. Once you two have talked, he should have an
easier time recovering."
"You're right, Amanda. Did you say 234?"
"Yes."
Mark left on his rounds.
***************************
Dr. Martines took hold of Steve's shoulders and said:
"You have no more physical injuries than what you
described?"
"No. As I said, once Waters found me it wasn't too bad. You
never really know what will happen in these riots, but I wasn't
in too much danger. I'm glad that dad helped; it really ticks me
off that someone was sabotaging the study. It's a slap in the
face to everybody who needs that medication. I'm glad that it's
dad who will testify because he won't get rattled on the stand.
The doctor and the assistant warden will get theirs and I hope
they fry." Steve started to raise his voice: "If they
hadn't been selling the medication, I wouldn't have been in
there. I wouldn't have seen the Suttons. I wouldn't have been
beaten. I wouldn't have almost been raped."
"Steve!"
"Wow! I didn't know that was inside me."
"You've been through a day of terror. Even though you were
safe most of the day, you didn't know what would happen.
Something could have gone wrong; something almost did. I saw the
end when you had to run. Who was the prisoner Waters struggled
with?"
"The youngest Sutton son. I'm really sorry that Jonah Waters
was killed. He was a con, but he commanded respect, even mine. He
gave his word that I wouldn't be hurt and kept it."
As Steve finished his sentence there came a knock on the door.
Dr. Martines looked at Steve: "Expecting anyone?"
"No." He perked up: "Maybe it's dad. But why would
he knock?"
"Maybe he saw Amanda and knows that I'm here. I'll let him
in and then leave. Take time to talk. I think that you two can
settle this today. Call me afterwards. We'll set up another
appointment. Good-bye."
"Bye."
Martines arose and went to the door just as a second knock
sounded through the room. She opened it to Steve's father and
smiled at him. She whispered:
"You're here, good. Talk. I think you two can settle
this."
Mark whispered back: "Thanks," and entered the room.
Steve looked up and saw his father enter. He flashed a tentative
smile and said:
"Hi."
"Hi. Want some company?"
"Yeah. Can you stay?"
"Yes, all day if you'd like."
As Mark entered, Steve motioned him to the bed, and moved over to
give him room to sit. Father and son shared a silent moment and
blurted out in unison:
"I'm sorry."
"Steve, I was wrong to be so angry. I know it's your
job."
"That's all right. I shouldn't have gone, but I thought that
if Waters really had information, we could solve the Kingston
murder. I really wanted to solve it."
"Son, why was it so important?"
"Don't you remember all the headlines when we finally had to
make the case inactive?"
"You mean those potshots at me? Did they really upset
you?"
"Well, they did then. I can't say that I've lost sleep over
them since, but as long as there was a chance we could solve it,
I thought I'd take it."
"Steve, if I'd had any idea. Newspaper headlines don't
bother me. None of that is important. Don't worry about it
anymore. When I talked to Jess he said that you're afraid you
don't have anyplace to go. How about home?"
"When?"
"As soon as Jesse signs your release papers."
"How about now?" They both laughed.
"Steve, something still bothers me. Please hear me out
because your life depends on it."
"What?"
"Your instincts. You told me that Waters probably wouldn't
talk and that he 'd never turn anyone in. Didn't your instincts
tell you that something was not right? Please, Steve, tell me the
truth."
"They're working just fine. When I was fifteen minutes away
from the prison I got a really weird feeling. Something told me
to turn around but I ignored it. I won't do it again."
"Whew! Good! That's part of what had me so upset. I was
afraid that your instincts had dulled, and that you would be at a
disadvantage on the streets. Steve, can you tell me what really
happened in there? What were the gunshots for?"
"I told you about the riot. Sutton's sons grabbed me and
forced me into an office in another building. I guess he figured
that nobody would find us. They stripped me down to my shorts and
. and touched me. They started beating me and it felt worse than
last year. I kept thinking what would happen when they'd finished
and let other cons have me. Then I felt . I felt . Dad, I can't
finish it."
"That's okay. But you should talk with Elena."
"I will. I'm supposed to call her later and make an
appointment. Before Sutton could do much more than beat me,
Waters stopped it. Once I was in his custody, I was pretty safe.
What most people don't know is that Waters put a contract on the
Suttons."
"A contract? You mean to kill them?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
"I didn't know about it until he got to the medical unit. He
told me that it was because Sutton betrayed the prisoners by
trying to get me. He wouldn 't look at me, though, so I asked him
if there were other reasons. All he'd say was: 'I owe your old
man. Leave it at that.' He never said any more about it. What did
he mean?"
"Do you remember me telling you that I treated his
wife?"
"Yeah."
"You were at the Academy at the time. She had stomach cancer
that had metastasized throughout her body. She was very close to
death and she asked me if I could arrange it so he could be with
her at the end."
"And he was in prison?"
"Yes. I called a few friends and managed to get him
released. He had to have a guard but we could at least get him to
her. I told him when I saw him that I expected him not to betray
her. He said that he would play it straight and he did. You
should have seen them. For three days, he stayed here. He was
able to hold her as she died."
"How high did you have to go to pull that off?"
"Not very."
"The gunshots were the other prisoners getting the Suttons.
Dad, there's something else. I said something when I was talking
with Dr. Martines that scared me."
"What, son?"
"I said that I was glad the you did the tests and would be
testifying, because you wouldn't get rattled on the stand. I said
that I knew that Pike and Lincoln would get theirs and that I
hoped they would fry. Dad, that scares me."
"Steve, you were terrified yesterday and you came very close
to being killed. You're recovering now, and you're upset. You
have a right to be angry. I don't think that you mean it."
"Dad, last year, after the kidnapping, I didn't say anything
like that. Am I becoming a bad cop?"
"No, son." Mark was about to expand on his thoughts
when the door opened and Capt. Herrera asked:
"Hi, Steve, Dr. Sloan. May I come in?"
"Yes," Steve replied. "Is everything settled at
the prison?"
"Yes, Steve. Pike and Lincoln are in custody and the DOC is
starting a huge investigation. Nobody's giving out information on
who killed the Suttons. Here are your gun, ID, badge and cell.
When do you think you might return to duty?"
Mark responded: "The cuts and lashes should be pretty well
healed by Monday."
Herrera said: "That's fine. I'll leave you, I just wanted to
return your things."
"Captain," said Steve, "thanks. Thanks for
masterminding the takeover of the prison, too. I have to ask you
something."
Mark turned and said: "Steve ."
"Dad, please. If he tells me it's okay, I'll drop it."
"All right, son."
"Tell you what is okay, Steve?"
"Earlier today I was talking with Dr. Martines. I mentioned
that I was glad that dad would be the witness in the trials of
Lincoln and Pike. I said that they would get theirs and then I
said that I hoped they would fry. I didn't know that was in
me."
"Steve," answered Herrera, "that worries you?
Why?"
"Why? Cops aren't supposed to say things like that. We're
supposed to make the arrests and trust the legal system to
provide the justice."
"Steve, it is all right. You were once again the victim of
the Suttons because of Lincoln and Pike. You are justifiably
upset. You're also not the first cop who has said something like
that. We all do it. The difference between you and everybody else
is that you've said it once, and only when you were the victim.
Don't worry about it. I know that when you return to duty, you'll
be the same cop you were before. I'm going to leave now and let
you and your dad have some time together. Call me Sunday night.
Good-bye."
Mark walked Herrera to the door and said: "Jack, I'm sorry
for the way I acted yesterday. Please chalk it up to the father
in me and forgive me."
"Mark, not to worry. I'd say the same thing if it were one
of my sons. Take care of him. We can't afford to lose him."
"I will. Thank you for making sure that nobody got
trigger-happy."
"My pleasure. Bye."
After Mark had returned to him, Steve asked:
"What was that about?"
"I popped off to him yesterday. He was trying to comfort me
and I wasn't having it. I owed him an apology."
"What's in the sports bag?"
"Change of clothes. Why don't you wash up and dress. Just be
careful of the dressings. Toss your clothes from yesterday in the
trash can."
"Dad, they're ."
"I know. Indulge me. I have this idea that getting rid of
the clothes might help you purge the terror."
"Okay, dad. Thank you."
Steve emerged from the bathroom in about fifteen minutes. He
picked up the phone and dialed Dr. Martines' office. After a
short conversation, he hung up and turned to his father.
"Nine tomorrow morning. May I come in with you?"
"Steve, I would be glad to have you with me. I was afraid
that I'd lost you."
"I was afraid that I'd lost you."
Jesse entered with Steve's release papers and a wheelchair.
"Steve, you can go. Take it easy for a couple of days until
the cut is healed. You can probably return to work Monday."
"Thanks, Jess." Steve looked at the wheelchair and
said:
"You'd think I'd be used to this."
As he sat down Mark said: "Let's go home."
Pt. 10
Mark pulled into the driveway and he and Steve entered their
beachfront home, their refuge. When they reached the top of the
stairs they stopped and turned to each other. Steve spoke first:
"Dad ."
"Steve, let it go. I have."
Then, in the privacy of their home, father and son embraced, and,
in that embrace, put their disagreement behind them.
Steve went toward the kitchen and said:
"Dad, are you hungry? I am."
Mark nodded and within fifteen minutes they were enjoying a meal
on their sun-drenched deck. They spent the afternoon talking, and
when Jess and Amanda arrived for dinner, they would never have
known that Mark and Steve had been at odds. The evening ended at
9:00.
*********************
Steve and Mark were up and out by 7:30 Wednesday morning. They
arrived at the hospital around 8:15. Mark was called to the ER
immediately to deal with the aftermath of a pileup. Steve
wandered into the Pathology Lab to see Amanda.
"Hi, Amanda. No murders?"
"Not yet. Just wait ten minutes."
"Yeah. Thanks again for what you did. For taking care of dad
and for helping me."
"Steve, you're welcome. Now, forget it. When's your
appointment with Dr. Martines?"
Steve shrugged: "9:00, when else?"
Amanda chuckled and responded: "I should have known."
Amanda was not called away and they passed the time until 8:55.
Steve took his leave and headed for Dr. Martines' office. He
walked in at 8:57 and was greeted by a smile from Eva Jackson,
Dr. Martines' nurse:
"Good morning, Lieutenant. You look good, although I would
rather have seen you under different circumstances."
"Yes, we have to stop meeting like this," Steve grinned
in response.
Jackson groaned and told him that Martines was waiting for him.
Steve opened the door to Martines' office:
"Good morning, Dr. Martines."
"Good morning, Steve. Sit. Here's your tea."
"Thanks. However, I'm not quite as bad off this time."
"Did you and your dad settle it?"
"Yeah. I found out that he still loves me."
"I didn't realize that you really doubted that."
"I did for a little while. After we got home yesterday, we
settled it in our own way."
"Yes, I'm sure it was in your own way. Now, how are you
today? Are you still troubled about saying that you hope that
Lincoln and Pike fry?"
"Not as much. I'm not proud that I said it, but Captain
Herrera came to see me yesterday. I told him about it and he said
that I'm not the first and I won't be the last. He said not to
worry because at least I had a reason. By the time I return to
work, I'll be all right."
"Good. I'm glad that Herrera could help. Is there anything
bothering you?"
"Yes, the time when the Suttons had me. I tried to explain
to dad how I felt but I couldn't finish the sentence. They were
beating me and I was thinking about what was going to happen and
the diseases that the cons would probably give me. Then I felt .
I felt old man Sutton's hand on my shorts. There, I finally got
it out."
"Why was it so hard to say?"
"He was going to rape me. Thinking about him touching me
makes me sick. It makes me sicker to think of them and who knows
how many other cons getting their jollies by hurting me."
Steve arose and went to the window. After about five minutes he
turned around. Dr. Martines was still sitting there, waiting.
Steve smiled and continued: "I'll finish it today. Now I
know how the rape victims I've had to take reports from felt.
Sutton was stopped before he got started and I feel dirty. I've
washed and I still feel dirty. I wish I could take a
shower."
"Steve, it's not your fault."
"I know. My head knows it. I just wish my gut knew it. I
wish I could stand in front of Lincoln and yell at him for
causing this."
"Ah, finally."
"You didn't already know that was the problem?"
"I thought so, but you know I won't let you off without
saying it. How long before you can shower?"
"I think dad's going to look at the cut tonight. If it's
healing, I think he'll let me shower tomorrow."
"Good. When you get home, why don't you write Lincoln a
letter?"
"A letter? Why, he'll never get it."
"It doesn't matter. Just tell him what you think of him.
Then bring it to me the next time you come. Steve, it will make
you feel better."
"I'll try it." Steve looked at his watch. "Well,
it's noon. I suppose that our time is up."
"You know that you can stay if you want."
"No, dad and I are going to Luigi's for lunch. Do you have
time on Friday?"
Martines checked her appointment book. "Steve, it seems that
I have an appointment at 9:00."
Steve showed his disappointment. "For all three hours?"
"Afraid so. Some patient named Sloan." She looked up
with a very big grin on her face.
Steve laughed: "Two points for you. Some patient named Sloan
indeed! See you."
"Bye, Steve."
************************
Steve and Mark returned home at 6:00 p.m. During the evening
meal, Mark began the conversation:
"Steve, how was your appointment?"
"It went very well. I could finally say what I couldn't say
to you yesterday."
"I'm glad, son. Do you want to talk about it?"
"Yes, but after dinner."
They finished and adjourned to the living room.
"Dad, what do you want to know?"
"Everything. Do you think that you can finish the
sentence?"
"Yeah. They were beating me and I was thinking about what
was going to happen and the diseases that the cons would probably
give me. Then I felt . I felt old man Sutton's hand on my shorts.
Thinking about him touching me makes me sick. It makes me sicker
to think of him and his sons, and who knows how many other cons,
getting their jollies by hurting me. Dad, please let me shower
tomorrow. I still feel so dirty."
"Steve ."
"Dad, don't worry. My head knows it wasn't my fault. It's my
gut that's the problem. It'll be better when I can shower."
"Steve, let's go downstairs and I'll check your cut."
When they reached Steve's bedroom, Steve took off his shirt. Mark
took off the bandage and looked.
"Steve, it looks pretty good. Why don't you shower now and
I'll dress it again. Use tepid water and don't aim the full force
of the spray on it."
"Thanks, dad." Steve wagged his eyebrows and continued:
"Once again I thank my lucky stars that I picked a doctor
for a father." Father and son laughed. Steve went into the
bathroom and reappeared fifteen minutes later drying his hair.
Mark dressed the wound. Steve lay on his bed and motioned for
Mark to sit.
"Thanks, dad. Would you mind if I went to sleep?"
"No, son. Sleep well. Call me if you need me. What are you
going to do tomorrow?"
"Write a letter. I told Dr. Martines that I'd really like to
tell Lincoln off. She said to write a letter and give it to her.
She said it would help."
"Good idea, Steve. Good night."
"Good night, dad."
Pt. 11
Steve awoke at 7:00 on Thursday, June 27 and went upstairs to see
his father. Mark handed him an omelet and said:
"Hi. Better?"
"Yes. No nightmares."
"Good. Do you want me to stay?"
"No. Go ahead. I have a letter to write and then I thought
I'd go to the restaurant."
"OK. See you at lunch?"
"Sure."
Mark left and Steve sat at the computer. After a few false
starts, Steve decided that he would actually "write"
the letter. He went to the drawer and pulled out pad and pen. He
wrote and wrote, words flowing in an almost never-ending stream.
He put the final period on the letter, signed it and put it in an
envelope. Dr. Martines was right. He felt much better. He
put the breakfast dishes in the dishwasher and left for BBQ
Bob's. It was a busy morning so he was happy for the break when
Mark, Amanda and Jess arrived for lunch.
"Steve," said Amanda, "feel better today?"
"Yes, much. I followed Dr. Martines' advice and wrote a
letter to Lincoln telling him how I feel. She said it would help
and it does. I think I'll be okay. Tomorrow should be the last
appointment. Are you guys busy tomorrow night?"
"No," replied Jesse and Amanda in unison.
"Come for dinner? I'll cook and we'll have a party."
"Sure. Who's coming?"
"Just us, and Dr. Martines and her husband, I hope."
Mark stood up and said: "Guys, we have to get back. Steve,
I'll see you tonight. We'll have dinner at Pepe's and then catch
a movie."
"Fine. Bye, guys."
That evening, Mark and Steve enjoyed dinner and a comedy film.
When they returned home Mark said:
"Steve, you really are better. I can see it in you."
"Yes, I really am. I'm also tired."
"Steve, will you go in with me, tomorrow? After your
session, you can take my car and I'll come back with Jess."
"Sounds good, dad. Good night."
"Good night."
**********************
Friday, June 28, Steve and Mark arrived at the hospital at 8:15.
It was quiet so Steve stayed in the ER and they passed the time.
At 8:55 Steve entered Dr. Martines' office. She handed him a cup
of tea and told him to sit.
"Steve, do you have the letter?"
"Yes, here." As he handed it to her he said: "You
were right, writing it did help. How did you know? Oh God. Oh,
no."
"What?"
"Last year, when I asked if you'd ever had to talk about
something that terrified you. You said yes. You were raped,
weren't you? Sorry, it's none of my business."
"That's all right. Yes, Steve, many years ago."
"At a time when the cops were part of the problem."
"Yes. But it's long past. Now, close your eyes."
"Why?"
"Just do it. Picture in your mind's eye Dr. Harvey Lincoln.
He's white, about 6'5". He has brown eyes and black, graying
hair. He's about 55 years old and weights about 250. He has a
round face and a handlebar mustache. Can you see him?"
"Yes."
"Now, open your eyes and read your letter to him."
Steve took the letter back from Martines' hand and, in a voice
growing louder with each sentence, read:
"Dear Lincoln. You bastard! How could you have done it? How
could you have violated everything you're supposed to stand for?
You sabotaged clinical trials that people were counting on, for
money! How could you! How could you be so heartless! People were
counting on that study and now you've probably invalidated it.
And you almost got me raped and killed. It still makes me sick to
think about being raped. It makes me sick to think about all the
pain and fear. It makes me sick to think about how I almost lost
my dad because of you. You! And your greed! You could have quit
if you wanted more money! But no, that would have been too easy!
I hope you rot in the joint for this. I hope you live the rest of
your life wondering if you're going to get a shiv in your gut. I
hope you live the rest of your life wondering if a bunch of cons
are going to jump you and beat you to death. Steve Sloan."
As Steve finished the letter his anger visibly subsided. He sank
back into his chair and started to drink his tea. Martines
questioned:
"Tired?"
Steve shook his head slowly: "Yes. But I feel better. Just
getting it out was enough. I can put it behind me now. Thank you
so much. I wish that I could do something for you."
"Steve, just be a good cop. When you return to work on
Monday, find a good murder to investigate and let Narcotics make
its own busts from now on."
Steve chuckled and replied: "Deal. I wish Waters hadn't
died."
"Steve, he died as he would have wished. He gave his word to
those prisoners and to you. That meant everything to him, just as
yours does to you. Don't dwell on it. It's over."
"Yeah, it's over. Can you and your husband come to the beach
for a party tonight?"
"Yes, we wouldn't miss it. What time?"
"7:00."
Steve stood up to leave and Martines stood as well.
"Good-bye, Steve." They shook hands and smiled. Steve
left the office and went to find Mark, Amanda and Jess. He found
them in the lounge, a feast from BBQ Bob's waiting. After lunch
Steve left and went shopping for dinner. That evening the Sloan
house was filled with good food, good company and laughter.
That same evening, Harvey Lincoln entered his cell and found a
tape recorder on his bunk. He pressed the play button and
shuddered at what he heard.
The clock on the Sloan mantel rang the hour of 10:00 p.m. and the
party broke up and the guests departed. Steve and Mark cleaned up
and went to bed.
*****************************
Steve arose at 8:00 on Saturday, June 29th. He entered the
kitchen and found his father waiting for him. Steve said:
"Dad, I had the strangest dream last night."
"Tell me."
"I dreamed that Lincoln heard my letter. He couldn't have,
but . Oh well, it's over and I'm starved. Let's eat!"
End
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