A/N: Hey, not many readers seem to be following this story now but I want to thank those who are. Your support and comments mean the world to me. We don't do this for the praise but it does help. Anyway here's the next chapter. The story's nearly finished and I'll be getting back to one of my other stories. Hope all of you in the FF world are keeping safe.

Chapter 26

Jake was in bed, reading a book when Nate to come in to the bedroom. "Hey, I thought you'd be asleep already" said Nate.

"I was scared I'd have a nightmare. I wanted you here before I tried to sleep."

"It's okay, I'm here now." Seeing the boy was still reluctant to go to sleep, Nate added "Why don't you tell me some happy memories. It doesn't have to be recent, it could be anything." Nate sat down at the foot of the bed. Jake thought for a moment and a smile crept on to his face. "What are you thinking about?" asked Nate.

"Grandma. She used to take me to the park after school before mom came home from work. She'd sit and watch me play on the swings or in the sandpit with the other kids. We'd go home and she'd make me supper." His face turned sad. "When she got ill and died, I was very upset and then I found out I had a grandpa and an uncle." His face brightened again. "It was strange at first and they'd only come over for meals a couple of times a month but then they'd come more often. Uncle Callen couldn't always make it. Grandpa moved in with us and he'd look after me when mom went to work."

"Did he take you to school?" asked Nate.

"No I'm old enough to use the school bus. He'd take me to the bus stop though and meet me there after school. Uncle Callen would do it sometimes but he was always busy. I'd see Uncle Callen more at the weekends" recounted Jake.

"What did you and your grandfather like to do?" asked Nate. He was loathe to keep the boy awake but felt it important for him to talk about his feelings as well as trying to stop his nightmares with happy thoughts.

"We'd go to the park and play, pretended we were spies and hide. That was fun. We had these guns that shot little darts and we'd shoot at each other but we'd have to collect them up to reload. We'd practise who could do it faster. Grandpa was good but I was the quickest." Nate recognised aspects of spy craft in the games and knew that Garrison was secretly teaching Jake skills to protect himself.

"Would Callen play with you?" asked Nate, curious as to how the tough lead agent related to his nephew.

"Yeah, sometimes but he'd sit and watch mainly. We'd play cards sometimes. Don't tell mom but Uncle Callen taught me how to play poker. Sometimes we'd play cops and robbers but we'd also wrestle. He'd teach me moves and how to break away from someone's grip. I sometimes won when we fought although he's bigger and stronger." Jake smiled. "But I think he let me win."

Nate chuckled at the boy's comment. Again Nate recognised aspects of the trade craft which agents used but also wondered why Callen remained on the perimeter of the family. Was he jealous of the relationship Garrison had with Jake or was it just that Callen was afraid of becoming attached to the boy and his mother? That would be a question for another day and one put to his team mate when he recovered. For now Nate's priority was the boy. "You've done well Jake. If you concentrate on those memories, you shouldn't have any bad dreams but I'll be here if you do" said Nate softly, seeing the boy was struggling to keep his eyes open and he soon fell asleep.

Slowly, not to disturb Jake, Nate rose from the bed and, ensuring the door was ajar, settled down on the lazyboy chair in the bedroom. It was ample enough for Nate's tall frame which ensured he'd be relatively comfortable. Just after midnight Nate was roused from a light sleep when Jake started muttering and twitching but smoothing words from the psychologist soon had the boy sleeping peacefully again and he remained that way until it was time to get up.

Leaving the boy to get washed up and ready for the day, Nate went downstairs and found Alex in the kitchen. Turning round, she asked "Morning, how did Jake sleep?"

"Very well, better than I hoped. He started to have a bad dream around midnight but I talked to him and he was okay. I'll tell what I did as it'll help you when we're not around." She smiled at him and got on with preparing the breakfast. There was a knock on the door and Nate said "I'll get it."

Opening the door he found Hetty standing there. "Good morning Hetty" he said and stood back to let her in.

"Good morning, Mr Getz. How is everything this morning?" she asked.

"Miss Hetty!" cried Jake as he came down the stairs. He ran to her and gave her a hug.

"Jake, leave Miss Lange alone" admonished his mother. "I'm sorry" she added as she approached Hetty wiping her hands on a tea towel. "Can I get you anything to eat or drink?"

"It's quite alright, Alex" replied Hetty as Jake took her hand and started to lead her into the kitchen diner. "No thank you, I've had breakfast but please don't let me stop you. What I've come for can wait." Turning to Jake Hetty said "I'll join you shortly. I need to speak to Mr Getz."

The boy looked disappointed but muttered "Okay."

"Jake, sit down and have your breakfast." The boy did as he was told. "Nate, can I get you anything?"

"Just coffee for the time being, thanks" he replied. Alex went a poured the coffee into a mug and handed it to him. "There's plenty of food. I'll keep it warm so it'll here when you want it" Alex added.

He nodded his thanks as Kensi and Deeks entered the room. "Morning Hetty" they said in unison.

"Good morning Miss Blye, Mr Deeks. Everything's in order I take it?"

"Yeah, everything's fine and no signs of anyone paying us any attention" recounted Kensi.

"Good" said Hetty.

"How's Callen?" asked Nate.

"He's had a little set back. He's got hospital acquired pneumonia but they believe it's been caught early so that his recovery should not be hindered too much. He's been put on a broad-spectrum antibiotic until they find out exactly what bacterium is causing the infection."

"That's a bummer" said Deeks. "Callen's not gonna like that."

"Indeed" agreed Hetty. "But Sam is there to ensure he behaves himself. I'm hoping that his doctor will release him into my care once he's recovered sufficiently from his other injuries."

"That's a good idea" said Nate. "He's more likely to respond better when he's no longer in a hospital environment."

"Yeah, we know how much he hates hospitals" agreed Kensi.

"There's breakfast here if you want" said Alex as she approached the group.

"Thanks" said Kensi as she joined Jake at the kitchen table, closely followed by Deeks.

"I heard you mention Callen's name. He is alright?" asked Alex.

"Yes" answered Hetty. "As well as can be expected but he's got pneumonia. I was telling the others that the doctors think they've caught it early enough for it not to hold back his recovery too much."

"Will Jake be able to visit him later on?" Alex asked.

Hetty wasn't sure whether Alex was concerned for her brother or that Jake might not be able to visit his uncle. "Yes, visiting has not been restricted although the doctor has warned that he may tire quickly" replied Hetty. "It will do Mr Callen good to see Jake. What about you? Will you go and see your brother?" probed Hetty.

"I'm not sure yet but Kensi and Deeks can take him in can't they?" said Alex.

"Of course, but I think Jake would like his mother to be there with him" said Hetty. Alex smiled uncertainly. Hetty didn't want to pressure the woman so she changed the subject and said "I've received these letters for you and Jake." Alex looked puzzled. "They're from your father" added Hetty by way of explanation.

"How…? Where…." stuttered Alex, unsure of which question to ask first. Hetty came to her rescue.

"Ever since Garrison left the country, Mr Callen has been doing all he can to locate him. He enlisted Arkady Kolcheck's help and it has paid dividends. His sources have found Garrison and Arkady has communicated with him." Alex shook her head in disbelief as she held the letters in her hand. "Mr Callen has received his letter and I am sure your father can explain everything better than I in those."

Hearing the mention of his grandfather's name, Jake hurried from the breakfast table and stood by his mother's side. "Mom?"

"Miss Hetty's brought letters from your grandpa" said Alex, tears filling her eyes.

"Is he coming home?" asked Jake. "Where he is?" The boy looked anxiously between Hetty and his mom.

"I don't know the answer to either of those questions, Jake" replied Alex sadly "but he's sent you a letter." She held out the envelope and he looked it before taking it and running up to his room.

As Alex went to follow him, Hetty put a hand on her arm. "I think he needs to read it alone. I'm sure once he's processed what it contains, he'll share it with you. Mr Getz will remain here to be of any assistance to either of you" said Hetty gently. "I need to get back to the hospital" she added.

Alex nodded and looking down at the envelope in her hands, turned slowly and went to another room to read her letter in private. Hetty joined the others at the breakfast table and, looking at their puzzled faces, said "Garrison has been found and he's sent letters to Mr Callen, Jake and his mother. Before you ask, that is all I know except that he has escaped with the help of Arkady's associates and is in hiding."

In the other room, Alex sank down into an armchair and stared at the envelope in her hands for a long time before opening it. She took out the parchment and slowly unfolded it. Her first thought was how elegant her father's handwriting was and realised that she had not seen it before. Taking a deep breath, she started to read.

Dear Alexandra, my darling daughter

First I must apologise for my English. It is not so good. I hope I can put into words what I need to say to you so you can understand.

I write you this letter to tell you I am free but in hiding. It would be dangerous for us all if I tried to come back to America. Arkady can get word to me and I will write again when I have the chance.

I did not mean to hurt you or Jake. Your mother, my darling Katerina, is dead and the lives of you and Jake were put in danger because of me. For that I am very sorry.

Ever since I met and fell in love with Grisha's mother, I have helped people escape from the tyranny of Russia to have a better life in the West. Your mother was one such person. I fell in love with her and you were the result. I was an enemy of Russia and a hunted man. I had to remain hidden and could not be a part of your life but I had people watch over you and report back to me. History was repeating itself. I was not part of Grisha's childhood. After his mother was murdered, I had to send him and his sister away to keep them safe from my enemies.

When I found out your mother was ill, I knew it was an attempt to bring me out into the open as well as a punishment for something she had done to a very powerful Russian. I knew she was dying and I had to protect her…my family.

Alex paused when she noticed 'my' had been underlined by her father. A sad smile pulled at the corner of her mouth as she thought of the happy times they'd spent together. She started reading again.

At first I was reluctant to get involved in your life. It was Grisha who convinced me there should be no more secrets in our family and I should get to know you and Jake. I missed out on Grisha's childhood and was not able to save my other daughter. I stayed away from him even when he was grown. It was for his own good or that was what I told myself.

I cannot express how grateful I am to have had a second chance of a family. The months I spent with you were the happiest of my life. I am sorry that I had to leave and cause you much pain.

When the authorities took me away to trade me for the American people, I did not mind. It was likely the Americans were taken to get to me and for that reason I could not let them suffer. I know that decision hurt you deeply. Again I am sorry.

In the end it was my decision, so do not blame Grisha. Your brother did all he could. I am sure you do not know his actions because he is not the kind of man to speak of them. Grisha wanted to break me out of custody. I do not know America well so he knew he would have to come too. Your brother was willing to give up his friends, his job, his freedom and to betray his country to save me. If caught he would be tried for treason. I do not know what the penalty for that is in America. Whatever it is, it is not good.

Grisha is a good man and I know the decision to help me was not taken lightly. He did not want me to go back. He knew what waited for me but he made you a promise to fix it. I appreciated what he was willing to do for me, a man who failed him as a father in his childhood and also as a grown man. I could not let him sacrifice his life for me. I choose to make the exchange.

It has been difficult for you these past months. I know what happened between you and Grisha. I also know he put his feelings aside to rescue Jake from those men and nearly got killed. I say it again. Grisha is a good man and protects the innocents and he looks after family.

You have a choice to make. I beg you to think hard about what you decide to do. I know Grisha, he's like me although he will not admit it. He will stay away from you if that is what you want but he will never stop protecting you and Jake.

We have enemies, Grisha and I and I know his job has its dangers too. You and Jake may be targeted because of who you are related to. You may feel that is too big a risk to take. Let me tell you, you will always be safer with Grisha in your life. He will die rather than have anything happen to you or Jake. As will I. Think on that fact please, Alexandra, before making a rash decision.

Alexandra, you once accepted Grisha and me as family. If you have affection for me, please let your brother back into your life. Grisha lost his father that day for a second time. He was hurting too and still is although he hides behind a mask. You can help each other. Think of Jake also. He needs a man in his life.

Alexandra, you have a chance to be a family again. Don't make the same mistakes I made and live the rest of your life in fear and with hatred and regret in your heart. You deserve to be happy. So does Jake. Grisha does too.

I love you Alexandra and miss you. If I am able, I will make my way home to you but for now, I must stay in hiding.

Your loving father

As she read, Alex felt the tears brimming in her eyes but was unable to stop them falling. Teardrops fell onto the paper and she blotted it with a tissue, afraid the ink would smudge. She wiped her eyes and re-read the letter time and time again. Finally, as she folded the piece of paper and slipped it back into the envelope, her father's words echoed through her mind which was in turmoil.

In his room, Jake sat on his bed and ripped open the envelope, pulling out the single sheet of folded paper. He started to read.

Dearest Jake, my grandson

I write to let you know I have escaped but am in hiding. I cannot come home to you because it would not be safe for any of us. I am very sorry you were put in danger because of me. I am grateful your uncle and his team were able to free you although it meant my son, your uncle, was badly hurt. If I had known my enemies would try to get to me through you, I would have stayed away. Perhaps you would not have been taken.

Please know that I do not regret our time together. They were happy times. I did not think I would ever have any grand children, let alone be part of their life. Unfortunately, our time together was short. I pray that we will have more time together in the future.

I am happy fate brought us together although I am deeply saddened it meant your grandmother had died. I do not mean to bring back bad memories of that time. Please be happy you spent many years with her and rejoice in the good times you had as a family, times I did not have.

My life-style meant I was not able to be with her or be part of your early life. Know that I was overjoyed to learn that I had a grandson as well as a daughter and you can thank your uncle for bringing us together. The months we had together were very special and I was very happy.

I know you were very upset when I went away so soon after losing your grandmother. I know it caused you and your mother much pain. I am very sorry. I never meant to hurt you because I love you too much. You are still young and may not understand the reason why.

In simple terms, my life has been helping people. The American couple who were being held abroad were taken because of me. They were innocent and I could not let them suffer. I went willingly although it meant leaving the family life I had yearned for and my decision to leave hurt you all. When you needed your uncle to help you through that pain, your mother chose to keep you apart. I am disappointed in her decision but I cannot condemn her for she felt she was protecting you from further heartache. In the past I have done much the same to protect my son.

You are a clever boy, Jake and I am proud of you. I am hoping that with your help, you, your mother and uncle will become a family again. I have written to them as well and I hope my words will help.

Arkady knows how to contact me so you can write if you like. If I am able to get home sometime in the future, I will do so. There is nothing I want more than to be back with you, your mother and Grisha as a family.

Until that time, know that I am thinking of you always. I love and miss you very much,

Your loving grandfather

As tears filled his eyes as he read the letter,Jake's vision blurred and he had wiped his eyes. When he had finished reading it, Jake re-read the letter several times, just as his mother had, before putting the paper down on the bed. Jake was glad that his grandfather was no longer imprisoned but was old enough to realise that being in hiding meant that his grandfather was being hunted. The likelihood of him being captured again would be high. Tears filled his eyes again at the thought.

A soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. He looked up and saw his mother standing there, her eyes red from tears. He leapt up and run into her arms and the pair hugged each other tightly. Through his tears and not looking at her, Jake said "Mom, you need to speak to Uncle Callen. I want him to be part of our family." Alex didn't say anything but Jake felt her nod her head.