**Disclaimer** Scarecrow and Mrs. King is copyrighted to Warner Brothers and Shoot the Moon Production Company. The story, however, is copyrighted to the author. This story is for entertainment purposes only and cannot be redistributed without the permission of the author.
Title: With or Without You
Author: Mary
Date Written: August/September 1999
Synopsis: Six months after their marriage, Lee and Amanda deal with the reality of their secret relationship and a conspiracy that
threatens to destroy what they have built.
Rating: R
WITH OR WITHOUT YOU
PART FOUR
"FEAR NO MORE"
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
The dark haired man carefully adjusted the earpiece of the listening device, fine-tuning the knob for the best reception. The Q-Bureau was coming in loud and clear. He smiled, thinking how easy it had been to plant the 'bug'. He knew Desmond would be too put off by his remarks to pay much attention to what he was doing. As for her…he wasn't too concerned. He always suspected who pulled most of the weight in that partnership.
A worried frown crossed his face. Things were going too well. He thought he had covered all the bases. It had been almost too simple to plant the device at her home in Arlington. He'd merely posed as the furnace inspector—the mother had been more than happy to give him access to the house. Talk about gullible-the family had no idea at all about what she was up to with the 'ex'. He laughed to himself at his private joke.
The device in the Q-Bureau was working nicely. He heard her making plans for tonight. The bug the 'grocery boy' planted at the ex's apartment should be operational by tonight. All systems were go. At least this evening's listening should prove entertaining.
He laughed mirthless to himself. No, the 'housewife turned spy' didn't worry him. She was a useful tool, nothing more.
"Mother? Guys? I'm home," Amanda called to the empty house. Silence greeted her in return. It was only 4:30 in the afternoon; this time of day usually found the boys shooting baskets in the driveway and her mother doing battle with a roast for dinner. She stood in the kitchen in puzzled confusion.
Suddenly it hit her. Jamie's photography contest – it was this afternoon. She glanced at her watch. Too late now, she'd missed it. He would be so disappointed. He had worked so hard on his entry. She sighed in sorrow. Another important moment in her son's life lost forever. Sometimes Amanda felt the price she paid for her career was too high. Her sons would never be this age again. She'd already missed so many of the little milestones that marked their growing up years. But she had a right to a life of her own, apart from her sons. They wouldn't be small forever. And she truly believed she and Lee were making a difference in the world her sons were growing up in. She only hoped she could make Jamie understand.
At least now she could pick up the things she needed to stay at Joe's tonight without facing her mother's inquisition. 'I guess there's a bright side to everything,' she thought with a smile.
* * * * *
Amanda came through the door, arms laden with packages. "Joe," she called from behind the bags, "I picked up a few things for…" She stopped abruptly, her eyes resting on Lee sitting in the chair. "You're out of bed," she stated happily, momentarily reassured to see him upright. "Where's Joe?"
"He had an errand to run."
She threw her bags haphazardly on the coffee table and bent down to give him a kiss. "I like the clean shaven look," she whispered as she laid her cheek against his.
"I missed you, too. How did things go at the Agency? I was starting to get worried."
Amanda stood up and retrieved the packages she'd tossed aside.
"I had a few errands to run. A little shopping. Some clothes for you, since I didn't think you wanted to go on wearing Joe's," she grinned.
"Thank you. That's definitely appreciated."
"Some clothes for me, since I'm spending tonight in the editing lab. And a few files for both of us," she finished conspiratorially, lifting the Agency paperwork from the bottom of the large bag.
Lee reached for the papers, grimacing as he leaned forward too quickly. Groaning slightly, he lay back against the chair.
Amanda immediately moved to his side. "You should really be in bed."
"I'm okay," Lee lied glibly. His eyes roamed speculatively over the files. "Did you have any trouble getting these?"
"I almost didn't get them. A few minutes later and these papers would have been in the Miller's hands at CIA." She made an appropriately disgusted face. "All of your closed cases are being investigated."
"I guess Dr. Smyth wants to pick up where 'Trojan Horse' left off a few months ago. I'm starting to feel the sides of the frame closing in again."
"We won't let him," she stated passionately.
"I can't believe the guy - even when I'm dead, he still can't cut me a break."
"You and I are more than a match for Dr. Smyth. But first, we need you back on your feet again. Come on, Stetson, let's get you to bed."
Lee smiled seductively. "Normally, that's an offer I'd find hard to refuse. But under the present circumstances…"
"I meant to sleep."
"Amanda, I've got to go through those files…"
"The files aren't going anywhere. I'll make you a deal. You rest, I'll make you some homemade soup, then we'll both see what we can find out."
Lee reluctantly allowed her to lead him back to bed.
She helped him settle back on the pillows, kissed him briefly on the lips and turned to leave. He tenderly caught her small hand with his larger one, holding on to her for an extra minute. He sighed longingly, lovingly looking into her eyes. "When this is over…"
Amanda raised her eyebrows questioningly.
"When this is over," he repeated firmly, "We're going to take some time for ourselves. No conspiracies, no bullets, no worries-just you and me, alone, getting re-acquainted."
She leaned over and kissed him one more time. "I'm going to hold you to that. But right now, you need to rest. I want you at 100%."
He smiled in compliance. She waited until his eyes drifted shut, then crept quietly out of the room.
* * * * *
Amanda sighed in her sleep and buried her head deeper in her pillow. She was in the midst of a wonderful dream. She lay securely wrapped in Lee's arms as he slowly and sensuously moved his hands over her body. The feeling was exquisite. He held her closer, his hands traveling upward until they found her breasts. She blinked her eyes, waking slowly, but the dream continued. Involuntarily, she smiled. Now this was the way to start the day.
Lee was in the process of trailing tiny kisses down her neck and right shoulder. She turned in his embrace and caressed his cheek with her hand.
"Good morning."
He answered her with a kiss that conveyed exactly how much he'd missed her. It began slowly but quickly built in intensity as their tongues found each other. She sighed, giving herself over to the moment, responding to him the way she'd dreamed of doing ever since their reunion at the train station.
"I take it you're feeling better?" she gasped when he finally released her.
He nodded in affirmation, leaning in to kiss her again. "I love you so much," Lee whispered as he hungrily laid claim to her body. For a few precious moments they lost themselves in each other, finally allowing themselves the luxury of surrendering to their emotions. Amanda wanted nothing more than to shut out the rest of the world and stay here in the protected haven of her husband's arms. She'd been dreaming of nothing else ever since Billy had appeared on her doorstep nearly a month ago.
Lee pressed closer, his kisses becoming more urgent. A noise from the other room suddenly registered in the corner of her mind that was still capable of thought. Reluctantly, she broke the embrace.
"Lee, stop, we can't do this."
`"Why not? We're married, remember," he joked, resuming his task.
"Because Joe's out there." She pushed him away with a gentle hand. "I can hear him in the kitchen."
"He's a big boy, Amanda, I'm sure he won't be shocked." He began to slide her nightgown slowly down her shoulder.
She caught his hand with hers. "I can't do this. Not with him in the other room."
Lee saw the look in her eyes and sighed. Reluctantly, he released her and lay back on the pillow. "I guess next time we'll have to remember to find a more private hide out."
"That's not funny." Amanda turned on her side, raising herself up on her elbow to look at him. "I'll make this up to you as soon as we get out of this mess. And I promise you'll enjoy your return to the land of the living."
Rising slightly, he brushed her lips lightly with his. "Let's hope it's soon." He fell back onto the bed, wincing slightly as he settled into a comfortable position.
Amanda looked at him with concern. "How are you, really? You went out like a light last night. I think you slept for about 14 hours."
"I'm better. I think I've finally shaken whatever it was out of my system. The rest will heal."
She snuggled down next to him for a moment. He turned and held her without speaking. Words were unnecessary.
Sighing again, he broke the embrace. "If we're ever going to get to that celebration you have planned, I guess we'd better see what we can make of this." He indicated the Agency files sitting on the nightstand.
Amanda rose to retrieve the files, stopping to throw a robe on over her nightgown. They were interrupted by Joe's hesitant knock.
"Come in," Amanda called absently.
Joe unwillingly stuck his head in the door. "Dan dropped by - he thought he'd check on Lee before he headed to the hospital."
Lee grimaced.
"Tell him to come in," Amanda replied, ignoring her husband's pained expression. "Lee would be happy to have him take a look."
* * * * *
Joe and Amanda finished their coffee in the living room in an awkward silence. Amanda looked at Joe out of the corner of her eye. Now that Lee was getting better, she was feeling more and more uncomfortable about staying here at Joe's. They needed to find another place to stash Lee until they figured out who was behind this conspiracy at the Agency. The strain was beginning to tell on all of them. She finally broke the silence.
"I'm sorry for landing this mess on you. Lee is much better. Just give us another day and we'll get out of your hair, I promise."
Joe nodded in silent agreement. He moved to the window to stare at the trees just starting to change color.
Amanda sighed. This was typical Joe behavior – studied avoidance of whatever was bothering him. It had always driven her crazy when they were married.
"What's on your mind, Joe?"
He hesitated before finally speaking. "Maybe the boys could stay with me for awhile – just until you sort this out."
Now it was Amanda's turn to be silent.
"I'd feel better knowing they were safe and out of harm's way until this was over," Joe finished strongly.
"The boys are perfectly safe right now."
Joe started to speak, but thought better of it. Amanda looked at him with concern. "I know you mean well, Joe, but I don't want to disrupt their lives right now any more than I have to. Especially with all Jamie's been through. He's just starting to deal with a lot of the problems he's been struggling with since you and Carrie broke up. The last thing he needs right now is more conflicting signals about our relationship."
"I am thinking of Jamie. I think you're too caught up with your career and your husband right now to give him the attention he needs. He was hurt that you didn't make it to the contest at school yesterday."
Amanda looked at him sharply. "Did he say that?"
"No. But I could tell what he was feeling."
Amanda clenched her teeth. That double standard was rearing its ugly head once again. Joe was such a hypocrite. He was 'caught up in his career' for years, but that was okay because he was a man – it was expected of him. She bit back a bitter response and instead opted to pour oil on the troubled waters.
"I'm sorry about the contest and I have every intention of making this up to him, Joe."
"Just for your information, he won first prize."
"First prize?" Amanda repeated with pride. "He must have been thrilled – he worked so hard on that project."
Joe sighed. "Okay, Amanda, we'll table the discussion about the boys for now. I'm really not trying to make things more difficult for you. Just know the offer is always open if you need it."
Lee emerged from the bedroom, showered and dressed. Amanda smiled at him from her seat on the sofa, giving him a quick once-over. "Hey, you look pretty good in those new clothes, pal."
"Thanks. The person who bought them had good taste," he said, returning her look.
"You're moving better, too."
"The ribs are still a little sore, but not bad."
Joe rose quickly, picking up his briefcase and heading for the door. "I've got to make an appearance at the office," he said ruefully. "I'll see you later."
Lee watched Joe's unbending form beat a hasty exit. When they heard the door close, he spoke.
"Did I interrupt something?"
"Not really. Joe was busy making a point about the boys' safety. I can tell from your expression that this doesn't come as a surprise.
"Not really. He mentioned the subject to me yesterday. But I'm not convinced his concern rests entirely with the boys."
Amanda sighed. "You're right. That's only a small piece of it. He's having trouble dealing with the idea of me moving on with my life."
"He's jealous."
"That, too. I think he's using the boys as an excuse. And to compound matters, I forgot about Jamie's photography contest yesterday. He won first prize."
"That's great." He saw the look on her face. "Hey, I wish we could both have been there."
"Jamie seems to have finally found an activity he likes better than baseball," she grinned. "You know, he really is pretty good. He's been using the camera you gave him."
"Yeah, you should have seen him on the Fourth of July at the park, taking pictures like a professional," Lee stated proudly. He couldn't believe how much he was actually looking forward to being a full-time stepfather.
"This business with Joe worries me. I don't think he trusts us to take care of them. He could decide to make things difficult."
"We need to find another place to stay. Joe says he can handle our relationship but it's one thing to accept it intellectually and quite another to have it thrown in your face on a twenty-four hour basis."
"I know."
Lee looked at his wife lovingly. "Amanda, you know how much I love you and the boys. I'd never do anything to put them or your mother in danger."
"I know that – I just wish Joe knew it, too." She let out a tired sigh. "I've got to get going. I told Francine I'd lend a hand with the final preparations for the trade talks. The Presidential reception is scheduled for tonight. Then I have to stop by the house and mend some fences there." She kissed him briefly. "Can I trust you to stay put today?"
His eyes twinkled in response to her question. She knew him too well. He nodded affirmatively.
"Promise?"
"I've got work of my own to do," he stated, indicating the files she'd placed on the coffee table. "I swear I'll be right here when you're all through."
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
The dark haired man stretched, keeping a lazy eye on the doorman. Trust the ex to live in a secure building. 'I guess lawyers can afford the finer things,' he thought wryly. Well, for that matter, so could he. It was one of the fringe benefits of his double life. And when he brought Phoenix One the information he'd gathered, he'd be set for life.
He couldn't believe his partner's stupidity. Once again he'd been forced to take care of the loose ends. No one crossed Phoenix One and lived to tell about it. He figured his partner was one sorry guy right about now.
The dark haired man forced himself to concentrate on what was going on in the apartment. Too much static - the 'bug' was malfunctioning. He could hear their voices but couldn't quite make out what they were saying. It didn't matter. He knew they were still inside.
He checked out the building once more. He debated calling for backup but quickly decided against it. When he took care of this problem, Phoenix One would be most grateful. Why share the glory? No, when the time came to move, that stupid doorman would pose no problem.
He was growing tired of these cat and mouse games. They would all be sorry. After tonight, the dye would be cast, all accounts settled. Smiling contentedly, he lay back against the seat to listen and wait.
"Amanda, this is so frustrating. I keep thinking the answer has to be in there somewhere." Lee flung the papers down in front of him on the sofa in anger. He lay back against the cushions, rubbing his head with his hand.
"Tired?" Amanda replied with concern, replacing his hands with her own. She began to gently rub his temples with her fingers.
"That feels good." He allowed himself the luxury of closing his eyes for a few seconds.
"We've been at this for hours. I don't think the answer's in those files."
"I didn't really think it would be," Lee said downheartedly. "I was just hoping."
Amanda settled back next to him, resting her head on his shoulder. "We'll get those answers. It's just gonna take some more time."
"Time is a luxury we can't afford. Every hour the trail grows colder. If I could just remember who was holding me…sometimes I think it's right there and then just as suddenly it's gone."
"Maybe it's time to bring in Billy. Your 'death' shut you out of the system. We need help from someone who has a higher level of clearance than I do."
"You're right, maybe it's time to give him a call."
"First thing tomorrow morning. Right now he's tied up with last minute preparations for tonight's reception. The President is attending, along with some of our most important European representatives. It would look pretty suspicious if Billy wasn't there."
"Okay." Lee took her hand in his. "How did things go on the home front? Any repercussions from yesterday?"
"I didn't get a chance to talk to Jamie. He was at the park with Philip. But my mother let me have it with both barrels. I think she still holds it against me that I missed Jamie playing Rip Van Winkle last year." Amanda smiled, remembering. That time they were busy helping Billy out of a jam.
"When this is over, we'll both make it up to him."
Amanda nodded in agreement. "I picked up his winning photo when I was home. I thought I'd get it framed for him as a surprise."
"He won't miss it?"
"No, he has about ten copies in his room." She handed it to Lee proudly. "He called it 'Faces'. It's really very good."
Lee took the photo from her hand. "Hey, this is from the park on the Fourth of July," he said in surprise. Jamie had perfectly captured a family enjoying the holiday celebration. Other faces in the crowd framed the man, woman and their children. Lee was about to hand it back to her when something in the background caught his eye.
"Amanda, does Joe have a magnifying glass?"
"In the desk, I think. Why?"
"Just get it. There's something here…" He put the picture under the light and studied it through the magnified lens. "My, God, Amanda. That's my friend Tom Fellows – with agents Mason and Thomas."
"What would they be doing at Rock Creek Park on the Fourth of July?"
"I don't know."
"Maybe they were there for the fireworks show? Looks like it's almost time."
"Show time?" Lee murmured to himself.
"Not you, too. I think that's Mason's favorite phrase," she stated in annoyance. "He uses it constantly."
"Amanda…the people who held me…" He stammered, the missing pieces falling suddenly into place. "That's what I've been trying to remember. I kept hearing that phrase during my 'debriefing'."
"You mean…"
"Mason and Thomas. We've finally got a lead. Let's go."
* * * * *
Lee and Amanda parked their 'borrowed' car down the street from Thomas' house. He lived in a small but expensive house in Georgetown not too far from the Agency.
"I hope Joe's neighbor doesn't miss his car," Amanda said contritely.
Lee gave her a look. "Would you rather have him miss his car or have half the Agency trailing yours? We couldn't take the chance of being followed."
"I know." Amanda whistled appreciatively. "Not too shabby. Thomas lives pretty well."
"Family money. He inherited this house."
Amanda looked at him inquisitively.
"Tommy and I go back a long way. Actually, we began our training at the same time. Went on our first assignment together."
"You never told me that."
"Not much to tell. We were supposed to meet with a courier. We were both so green - it was supposed to be routine – just a low priority drop. That's why they gave it to two rookies. Tommy took the meet and I covered his back." Lee shrugged his shoulders. "It was a trap. I had to take out the courier."
"You saved his life?"
"I guess you could say that. It was the first and last time we worked together. The Agency congratulated me for being able to 'think under pressure'. Shortly after the incident Paul chose me for the Oz Network. Tommy got the more 'routine' assignments." He paused, deep in thought. "A common beginning…and we both went in such different directions."
Amanda put a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Ready?"
"Let's get this over with."
Guns drawn, they approached the house with caution. He slowly tried the door. It was open. Motioning to Amanda, he signaled her to go around back. He carefully entered the house.
He saw Amanda approach purposefully from the kitchen, shaking her head to indicate Thomas wasn't in there. Together they began to climb the stairs.
After checking out the other bedrooms, Lee zeroed in on the master suite at the end of the hall. With a raise of his eyebrow, he pointed towards the door. They deliberately made their way down the hall.
Lee nudged the bedroom door open slowly with his foot, flattening himself back against the wall. They were greeted by a deafening silence. Lee poked his head through the door.
Thomas lay motionless on the bed with his hands and feet bound tightly together. He appeared to be unconscious. Holstering his gun, Lee walked over to the bed and felt for a pulse.
"He's alive, but barely. Amanda, call for an ambulance." He reached for the knife that was lying on the dresser. Ignoring the dried blood, he cut the ropes that bound Thomas. Shaking him, he tried to bring him around. Amanda came back into the room.
"They're on their way."
"You hear that, Tommy? Hold on – the ambulance is coming."
His efforts were rewarded by a groan. "Too late," Thomas replied in a weak voice. "Poison. Too late for the antidote." He doubled over in pain. Amanda and Lee waited helplessly for the spasm to pass.
"Mason's own special brand of irony. This is what they ordered me to give you." The pain washed over him again. He panted shallowly until it passed. "I couldn't do it, though. I owed you. You saved my life. So I decided to let fate decide whether you lived or died. I guess now the score is even."
Lee gripped his hand tightly. "Hang on, Tommy. There must be something the doctors can do."
"I did what I had to do. Told Mason that. Mason got suspicious. He started trailing your partner. Must have found out you were still alive. Phoenix One doesn't take betrayal lightly." He coughed suddenly, waiting through the agony until he could continue. "The joke's on him, though. Got proof. Kept a log. That self-righteous bastard thinks he's so smug. He won't have the last laugh."
Thomas gripped Lee's arm, dragging his ear closer to his lips. He spoke in a whisper. "On the bookshelf. Top shelf. Third from the end. Volume of Shakespeare has a hollow cover. It's all in there. Take care of it, Lee. Take care of Phoenix One once and for all."
Thomas closed his eyes, the rigidity in his form relaxing suddenly. Lee looked at Amanda and shook his head. Amanda shifted her eyes down to the floor.
The wail of a siren in the distance spurred them to action. Locating the book Thomas had indicated, Amanda quickly glanced at its contents. Her face suddenly turned pale.
"What is it?"
"Names, dates places…he's documented it all. Lee," she said in a strangled voice, staring at him in disbelief. "It says here that Phoenix One…Lee, it's Dr. Smyth!"
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
The dark haired man made his way carefully to the elevator. True to his earlier prediction, the doorman had proved to be no obstacle at all. He had actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise. His clothes made the perfect cover. No one gave the doorman a second look.
Maybe he would be merciful this time and make it quick. He grinned expectantly. Or maybe not. Gun drawn, he burst into the apartment.
He was greeted by a deafening silence. A quick search proved fruitless. His prey had somehow slipped by him. He should have called for back up, he thought remorsefully. Phoenix One would be displeased.
Despondent, he sat on the couch. This latest turn of events unnerved him and he squirmed uncomfortably. The photo on the coffee table suddenly caught his eye. He studied it carefully, a broad smile spreading across his face. Maybe he could salvage something from this after all. Phoenix One hated loose ends and this photograph was as loose as they come. He could still turn this to his advantage.
He smiled as he thought of the small device waiting unobtrusively on her furnace. A quick search of the house and it would go up with the other one. A smaller statement, but just as important. It would serve her right for eluding him. She had played him for a fool and the dark haired man didn't like to look foolish.
He smiled in delight. It would make a pretty sight. 'I guess it's show time,' he thought with a smile. The dark haired man strode purposely through the door.
"Ready?" Billy signaled to the team of agents gathered outside Dr. Smyth's estate. "Okay, people, listen up. On my signal, we move and move fast. You each have your assigned target. Take out his bodyguards quick and hard – let's not give them the chance to react."
His glance fell on Lee with concern. "Are you up to this, Scarecrow?"
"Don't worry about me. This is one party I wouldn't miss for anything."
"Okay. I think you've earned the right to do the honors. Smyth is in his library. You have five minutes to get inside and into position. Francine, take point and Amanda, you're back-up. Move when I give the signal. Let's check our watches – go."
The team moved stealthily into position inside the grounds. Billy took one final look at Lee who responded with the thumbs up sign. The countdown was about to begin.
* * * * *
Dr. Smyth stood in front of the mirror adjusting the tie on his tuxedo. In a few minutes he would head to the President's reception to make his appearance. He rubbed his hands together in anticipation. He'd waited a long time for this moment. Tonight they would see over a year of planning come to fruition. Victory tasted sweet indeed.
The knock on the door broke into his reverie. Smyth was so caught up in his expectation of triumph that he barely glanced at the agents who came through the door.
"Is the car out front?"
"Oh, it's out front," the familiar voice intoned as Lee followed Francine deliberately through the door. Amanda trailed close on their heels. "But I'm afraid there's been a slight change in plans. Your invitation to the President's reception has just been rescinded."
They took up positions on all sides of Dr. Smyth. He regarded them with a bored expression. If he was surprised to see the man who addressed him, he didn't show it.
"Well, well Scarecrow. Found a fresh bale of straw I see. Stuffed some life back in." He boldly reached for his cigarette holder on the desk.
"Don't try it." Dr. Smyth hesitated, stopped cold by the look in his adversary's eyes.
"Come now, Scarecrow. The condemned is always entitled to a last cigarette before the executioner pulls the trigger."
"Oh, I'm not in charge of the firing squad tonight, Smyth. Although, truth to tell, I am sorely tempted. But that would be the easy way out. And you don't deserve to get off that easily."
Dr. Smyth smiled enigmatically as he reached for the cigarette. "Then I'll take the chance and have a final smoke. While I answer all those questions I'm sure you're just dying to ask."
He eased himself into the leather chair behind his desk and puffed his cigarette with his usual affectation. Lee motioned to Francine and Amanda to take up position on either side of his chair. He perched unceremoniously on the desk.
"The picture's really pretty clear, Smyth. I can probably even guess why. You're really not as clever as you think."
"No?"
"No. You're just like every other megalomaniac who decided he was better at making policy than following it. But where you're going it won't be an issue. As you're always so fond of telling me, there's a stiff penalty for treason."
Dr. Smyth smiled in response. "You think you have it all figured out, don't you? That I'm the traitor? You people haven't got a clue what you've done. You've single handedly condemned this country back to mediocrity."
The three agents exchanged a glance. Smyth continued his tirade. "We used to be a power to contend with. Now we react instead of act. Ineffectual leadership is quickly turning this country into a second rate power. And you know how we all hate to be second best. But we're going to change all that. It's too late to stop it."
Billy entered the room and nodded quickly to Lee. "We've cracked your little Phoenix network, Smyth. It's all over. The only thing you have to look forward to is a lengthy trial and a long prison term," Lee stated emphatically.
Dr. Smyth turned to face Billy with a melodramatic swirl. "Here in time for the final act, Melrose? You may think you've stopped me, but have no fear, the Phoenix will rise from the ashes." He suddenly started to gasp for breath. "I wouldn't count on that trial," he explained wanly. "You see the cigarette holder was laced with a fast acting poison. I'm told it's painless. Not like the stuff we gave to poor Thomas. I'd say the curtain is about to come down on this little drama. And it doesn't look like I'll have time to take that last bow."
Before anyone could react, Dr. Smyth slumped back in his chair. Lee reached over quickly to take his pulse. He shook head at the others and they holstered their guns.
* * * * *
Lee and Billy watched as they wheeled the sheeted body of Dr. Smyth from the room. Their expressions reflected their conflicting emotions.
"You know," Melrose said at last, "This whole thing is really unbelievable."
"I know. I guess even I never thought Dr. Smyth would be guilty of treason."
"Well, that, too," Billy rejoined with a laugh. "But I was referring to your miraculous return from the dead. It's good to see you." He slapped his friend on the back.
Lee returned his grin. "Thanks. It's good to be seen."
Amanda shouldered her way into the room. "Our people have picked up almost everyone on the list, sir. Just a few stragglers left."
Billy nodded in affirmation. "We'll get them."
"Sir, there's something I don't understand." That nagging feeling of doubt was beginning to plague her again. "Dr. Smyth seemed pretty confident that we were too late to stop him."
"Yes?"
Amanda continued thoughtfully. "Lee, when we were talking about those explosions the other day, you said you thought the earlier ones were a smokescreen for something else, something bigger."
They both looked at her expectantly.
"What if they had a final explosion planned, an explosion Smyth believed we'd be too late to stop. Maybe something scheduled for tonight?"
Lee and Billy exchanged a worried look. "The trade talks," Lee said suddenly. "The President's reception…"
"Yeah. And Smyth said they wanted to change the direction of our foreign policy. That would certainly be one way to do it." Billy walked to the phone and quickly began to dial. "Get me presidential security."
Francine brushed brusquely past the team of agents sweeping Smyth's study to where Lee and Amanda were standing tensely. "Well, it's official. We've picked up everyone on the list except Mason. That worm is still out there. We found his 'bug' in the Q-Bureau. Can you believe his nerve?"
"Easily," Lee replied darkly. "I was his guest recently for about a week. Thomas told us he was tailing Amanda."
Francine concurred. "That's why I had them do a sweep of Joe King's apartment. Turns out he had bug problem, too."
Amanda clutched Lee's arm tightly. "Lee," she said in a strangled voice. "If he had the apartment under surveillance, then he might know about Jamie's photo."
"What photo?" Francine looked from one to the other.
"Jamie took a photograph in the park on the Fourth of July," Lee explained quickly. "He accidentally caught Mason and Thomas in a meet with Senator Holstein's aid, Tom Fellows. That's what tipped us to Thomas."
"Lee, you don't think…"
"With the evidence Tommy gathered, that photo is really a moot point, Amanda."
"But, Lee – he doesn't know that." Her voice cracked almost imperceptibly.
He grabbed her hand. "Let's go. Francine, we're headed to Amanda's. Tell Billy and send back up."
CHAPTER SIXTEEN
The dark haired man noiselessly entered the house through the kitchen. There was no sign of the occupants - it appeared deserted. He smiled grimly – so far, so good. It would give him the time he needed.
It was all falling apart. Events were out of control. He suspected it was already too late to stop the avalanche his partner had set in motion by letting Stetson live. Just that one little thing caused the future he'd so carefully planned to disintegrate before his eyes. His arrogant dreams of power brought to naught.
It didn't matter. Nothing mattered anymore except his revenge. This was all their fault – Scarecrow and Mrs. King. Their interference had reduced him to this. He had no choices left. They would have to pay the price. Carefully cocking his gun, he sat back on the sofa to wait.
They heard the sirens in the distance as their car approached the house at 4247 Maplewood Drive. Amanda gripped Lee's arm tightly. Swinging quickly onto her block, they found the way suddenly barred by police barricades. They abandoned the car and advanced towards the house as quickly as they could on foot.
The policeman stepped in front of them and effectively barred their way. "Sorry, folks. I'm going to have to ask you to vacate the area. This is a crime scene."
"You don't understand, officer, that's my house. And that's my mother over there." Amanda spotted Dotty a few feet away and began to push her way towards her. Dotty stood anxiously behind the police barricade with both arms around Philip. Their tear-streaked faces testified to their fear.
"Mother…" Amanda hurried over to both of them.
"Oh, Amanda…that awful man. He's in the house. He's got Jamie." She began to sob uncontrollably.
"What man? Mother, you've got to calm down. Tell me what happened."
Her ragged sob caught in her throat as she tried to speak. "The boys and I walked to the park tonight after dinner. It was such a pretty night. I think we were there for about an hour. Philip wanted to stay for a few more minutes to play basketball with some friends, so Jamie and I walked home alone. We ran into Mr. Stevens outside the house and I stopped to chat with him for a few minutes while Jamie ran on ahead. The next thing I knew, I heard him yell. He must have surprised a burglar. I tried to get to him, but the man said he'd kill him if I came any closer. Oh, Amanda, that awful man had a gun to Jamie's head." She broke down and sobbed on Amanda's shoulder. Philip stood next to her, his own eyes filled with tears.
"It'll be okay, Mother." She looked over her mother's head to Lee. "Mason must be inside. He has Jamie." Her voice was calm, but her eyes betrayed her true emotions. Lee knew she was barely holding it together.
"Dad." Philip spotted Joe approaching from down the street. He ran quickly to his father.
"I called Joe right after the police," Dotty explained. "I didn't know what else to do."
Joe came up to them with his arm around Philip. He immediately tore into Amanda and Lee. "I guess this is what you call keeping my sons safe."
"This isn't helping, Joe," Lee began quietly. "Let us handle it."
"The way you've done so far?"
Dotty and Philip stared at the angry tableau in shock and disbelief. All the color drained from Dotty's face as if she'd seen a ghost. "My God, Lee? What are you…"
"I'll explain later, Mother. Right now we need to concentrate on Jamie."
Lee pulled her aside. "Let's find out who's in charge here. I'm not carrying any I.D. Do you have yours?"
"No. We took off from Dr. Smyth's so quickly…"
"That's okay. Billy's here." He signaled to Billy and Francine who were pushing their way through the crowd of blue uniforms. "Let me see what they know."
He took off in their general direction. Amanda turned to Philip and Dotty, ignoring Joe's hostile look. "You two stay here. I'm going with Lee and find out what's going on."
"Amanda, it won't do any good. I've talked and talked and they won't tell me anything. They won't even let you near the house." Dotty's eyes threatened once more to overflow with tears.
"It's okay, Mother. Philip, take care of your grandmother. We'll get your brother out of this. I promise."
Philip nodded soberly. Amanda scooted around the police, heading for Lee, Billy and Francine in what appeared to be the command center. They waved her through the barricade while Dotty and Philip watched wide-eyed from a distance. As she approached them, she caught the end of Billy's conversation.
"…move those barricades back another four blocks. And get a mobile phone unit out here." The policeman nodded in silent agreement. Billy turned to Lee. "It looks like we have a hostage situation on our hands. We've got to try to establish communication."
Lee indicated Amanda's presence with his eyes. "Amanda, you know we'll do everything in our power to get your son out of there safely." Billy patted her arm in reassurance before moving off to check with the police detective.
"Lee, Jamie…"
"I know." He opened his arms and she moved into their protective embrace. "I'll get him out of there, Amanda. I promise. You know it's my family, too."
Francine watched the exchange in amazement. As she opened her mouth to comment, Billy returned with the phone unit.
"Okay, the police psychologist is going to try and establish contact."
Lee intercepted the phone. "Let me, Billy. My guess is Mason would love to get his hands on me again – to finish what he started. I'll get him to trade Jamie for me."
Billy hesitated, the phone resting on his chest. He looked at from Lee's determined face to Amanda's anxious one. He handed the phone to Lee. "Talk him out, Scarecrow."
With a glance at Amanda, Lee dialed the number. On the tenth ring, Mason picked up. "You're slipping, Scarecrow. I expected you an hour ago."
"I'm here now. Let's talk, Mason. Just you and me."
"Go ahead. I'm listening."
"Not like this. Let me come inside."
Lee could hear his heavy breathing on the other end of the phone. "C'mon, Mason. You can finish what you started last week. Just let the boy go and you can have me all to yourself. They won't interfere. You have my word."
Mason hesitated, his tension evident even through the wires of the phone. "It's a tempting offer, Scarecrow. But I think I like these odds a little better."
Lee let out the breath he'd been holding. He shook his head negatively.
"Let me," Amanda cried, taking the phone from him. "Mr. Mason, it's Amanda King. Let me come in and talk to you. Jamie's just a little boy. He doesn't belong in the middle of this. Let's you and I talk."
Once again, Mason hesitated. "Okay, Mrs. King. If you wanna talk, come on in. I won't stop you. But the boy stays here. Come in unarmed – and no wire. Just us."
"Okay. I'll be right there." She turned to Lee and Billy. "It's the only way. Give me the chance to talk him out."
Billy shook his head. "Amanda, I can't let you go in there. Then he'd have two hostages."
"I have to try. That's my son in there, sir."
Lee nudged Billy. "It's worth a shot. Besides, I've got an idea. With Amanda inside, she can create a diversion. I'll go up the trellis and in through the bedroom. Then I'll take him out." He looked to Amanda. "It's risky, but it's the only way. We can't afford to let this drag on. Mason has to know he has nothing more to lose."
Billy reluctantly agreed. "Okay, we'll give it a shot."
Lee turned to Amanda. "Be careful."
"You, too."
"Always."
Amanda walked slowly and deliberately towards the house. Reaching the front door, she paused, looking back over her shoulder at Lee. His smile reassured her as she warily entered the house.
Mason stood in the hallway holding Jamie in front of him with his left hand while his right hand brandished a gun. "Welcome to the party, Mrs. King. Glad you could join us."
"Are you all right, sweetheart?" Amanda started to move towards Jamie.
"Sweetheart is fine. And he'll stay fine just as long as you keep your distance."
Jamie stared pleadingly at his mother, terrified beyond the power of speech. She smiled her reassurance.
"Mason, come on, this isn't going to get you anywhere. We know about everything. Your partner had proof. He kept detailed records."
"You know about everything, huh? Then you know why I can't just walk out of here."
From the corner of her eye, Amanda caught sight of Lee's shadow on the stairs. She moved towards the living room in attempt to draw Mason out of his line of sight.
"Then let Jamie walk out of here. You don't need him."
"Maybe not. But it makes you and Scarecrow so much easier to control." He raised his voice. "That's your cue to join us, Stetson. And leave the gun on the stairs. Unless you want to see junior here splattered all over the hall."
Lee slowly complied and moved over to join Amanda. Mason laughed. "What a pretty picture this makes. And here I thought all week it was the ex who was getting all the action."
Lee made a move forward.
"I wouldn't try it," Mason warned. "You see, you're so predictable, Scarecrow. I knew if I invited Mrs. King inside you'd obligingly join the party. This way I get two for the price of one. Now, why don't we all move in to the other room, away from the windows? We don't want to make things too easy for the sharpshooters."
Mason motioned them towards the other room. He followed closely, holding Jamie by the neck. He directed them to sit on the sofa, shoving Jamie roughly towards them. Amanda put her arms around him and pulled him close, kissing the top of his head. Mason trained his gun in their direction.
Lee turned on his adversary with a cold eye. "It really is all over. Your little organization has fallen apart. You boss committed suicide tonight."
"My boss?"
"You know, Phoenix One – whom we fondly referred to as Dr. Smyth."
"Well, I guess I really don't have anything left to lose now, do I?"
Lee caught Amanda's attention with a casual glance of the eye, indicating Philip's baseball partially hidden between the sofa cushions. Imperceptibly, she nodded. He continued talking to Mason, casually standing up. "We're in no hurry, Mason. We can out wait you. Sooner or later you're going to slip. You can't take both of us – and the other one will get you."
"Who says I have to wait that long? Don't move any closer, Scarecrow." He aimed the gun in his direction glancing quickly at his watch. "I only need a few more minutes anyway. Then the boys outside will be in for the surprise of their lives."
Lee and Amanda exchanged a look. Oblivious, Mason continued. "Kind of poetic justice, don't you think? You were supposed to die in an explosion, now you will."
"What have you done?" Amanda choked out the words.
"The same thing I did in all those other houses. There's a very efficient little device attached to your furnace. Your mother was so obliging the other day when I paid her a visit. In a few minutes, we'll all go out in a blaze of glory. It's almost show time."
Amanda fell back helplessly on the sofa cushions. Covering her actions with gasping sobs, she quickly felt for the baseball. Her fingers closed tightly around it. Suddenly, without warning, she fired the ball at the television screen, shattering it.
The sound caught Mason off guard and he hesitated for a fraction of a second before firing. Lee threw himself in front of the gun, the bullet he meant for Jamie catching him in the shoulder. Ignoring the pain, Lee jumped Mason and they struggled for the gun. At the same time, Amanda pushed Jamie towards the door, yelling at him to run.
The sound of a shot rang through the house as they collapsed on the floor, Mason falling on top of Lee. Grabbing the table lamp, Amanda hit Mason over the head and shoved his body aside.
"Amanda, get out of here," Lee ordered.
"Not without you. Come on." She roughly helped him to his feet and together they staggered out the front door. As they crossed the threshold, the house exploded behind them, the force flinging them forward. Lee fell on top of Amanda shielding her from the blast. She felt the heat from the flames behind her before she lost consciousness.
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Stunned neighbors clustered together, the peace and calm of their late September evening irreparably shattered by the unexpected turn of events. The siren from the speeding ambulance wailed plaintively in the distance.
Two men stood together amid the other curiosity seekers morbidly watching the grim spectacle unfold on the dimly lit street. They shook their heads in silent disbelief as the firemen worked the spray from their hoses over the smoldering remains of the house. It was over. Wordlessly, they disappeared into the night.
The bright light hurt her eyes. As she slowly struggled to open them, she blinked several times, trying to bring the room into focus. Her gaze fell on Dotty slouched in a chair by her bed.
"Mother?"
"Amanda, you're awake."
"Where am I?"
"You're in the emergency room at Galilee General. You've been unconscious, but you're going to be fine."
The events of the past few hours suddenly fell into place and she struggled to sit up. "Jamie…"
"Jamie's fine, Amanda. Don't worry. Stay put and let me call the Doctor."
Dotty stepped around the curtain and spoke briefly with the nurse. "He'll be right here," she reported. "Just lie still."
"Jamie's really okay?"
"Yes. They checked him out just as a precaution. He's out in the waiting room with Philip and Joe."
The emergency room Doctor brusquely entered the cubicle. "Well, Mrs. King, you're awake. How are you feeling?"
"I have a headache."
He briefly shone the penlight into her eyes. "I'm not surprised. You have a mild concussion. But it doesn't appear to be too serious. And it's not unusual to be disoriented after a head injury like this. Tell me, what's the last thing you remember?"
"There was an explosion…" She turned suddenly towards the Doctor. "Is my husband all right? Did they bring him in with me?"
Dotty caught the Doctor's eye. "I think she must be a little confused," she whispered. "Her ex-husband's in the waiting room."
Amanda sighed in exasperation. "No, Lee Stetson – my husband. He was shot. What's his condition?"
Dotty looked at her with a sympathetic shake of the head. "Everything's going to be fine, Amanda. You just need to rest."
"I don't need to rest, Mother. I need to find out how Lee is."
"I believe there was a gunshot wound brought in at the same time you were. I didn't examine him, though. You need to calm down, Mrs. King. I'll have one of the nurses check on his condition."
The Doctor left Amanda and Dotty alone in the small cubicle. Her mother patted her hand reassuringly. Francine stuck her head around the drape and signaled Amanda with her eye. She nodded in acknowledgement. "Mother, could you do me a favor? Go out and tell Philip and Jamie that I'm okay?"
"Sure, darling. I'll be right back."
Francine waited for her to clear the area, then came quickly around the drape to Amanda's bed.
"Francine, how's Lee? No one will tell me anything."
"He just got out of recovery. They operated to remove the bullet. Don't worry - the N.E.S.T. doctors said it was routine. He should be fine."
Amanda breathed a sigh of relief. She stood up slowly, holding onto the bedrail until she got her land-legs. Francine put a restrictive hand on her arm. "Amanda, where do you think you're going?"
"I think I'm going to see Lee."
"He's under 'restricted visitation' tonight. You can see him tomorrow."
"Sorry, Francine. That's just not good enough." She gave Francine a look that brooked no interference and headed into the corridor.
Francine trailed after her. "Amanda, trust me, they're not going to let you see him. I tried. You'd have to be a relative to get in there tonight."
"I think I qualify. If you'll excuse me, Francine, I'm going to go check on my husband."
She left a thoroughly shocked Francine standing alone in the hall.
* * * * *
"Feeling better?" Amanda entered the room carrying a large floral arrangement. She put them by the window and kissed Lee hello.
"Hmm. I'm feeling much better now. How are you doing? Everything quiet on the home front?"
"It's been a rocky few days, but I think the seas are finally calming down. Once everyone recovered from the initial shock of my big announcement."
Lee grinned. "Francine was pretty shocked, huh?"
"The look on her face was definitely one for the record books. But I think it paled in comparison to Mother's. Especially when she found out that we don't really work for a film company."
Lee grimaced. "I'm sorry you had to face all this alone. How's Jamie doing?'
"Better. Joe and I are both encouraging him to talk about his feelings. His doctor did suggest some counseling to help him deal with the repercussions of the Mason incident. But I think he'll be okay given a little time."
"We'll both be there to help him."
Amanda smiled. "Philip's been a big help. He's calling him the hero of the hour – it was his photograph that cracked the case."
"Amanda, I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am that any of this touched the boys."
She took his face in her hands. "None of this is your fault, Lee."
"If it hadn't been for me…"
"If it hadn't been for you, Jamie would probably be dead right now. Thank you for saving his life."
Lee shook his head. "No Amanda, don't thank me. This is my fault. Despite everything we've done, we couldn't keep the Agency out of your family's life."
"That's 'our' family, Stetson."
"I've had a lot of time to think the last few days. Maybe it's time to walk away from this business while we still can."
She sat on the edge of the bed and held his hand tightly in hers. "Lee, even if we didn't work for the Agency, the end result would still have been the same. Did you know that the winning photograph was going to be published in the local newspaper? Mason would still have come looking for Jamie's picture, but maybe we wouldn't have had the resources to protect him. If there's one thing I've learned recently, it's that life is precious. And it's time for us to start to live ours — with the boys, as a family. If you want to walk away from the Agency, I'll support your decision. But don't do it for me. Do it because that's what you want to do."
He leaned forward and touched her lips with his. "I love you, Mrs. Stetson."
"I love you, too."
As she leaned in to kiss him, they were interrupted by a knock on the door and Billy walked in. "Scarecrow, how are…I'm sorry. Didn't mean to interrupt." Billy looked down at the floor.
"It's okay, Billy," Lee laughed. "I'm just trying to make up for lost time with my wife."
A large grin covered Billy's face. "Congratulations to you both."
"Thank you, sir."
"Thought I'd stop by to fill you in on a few things. It's been a pretty hectic few days."
"No problems with the trade pact talks, I hope?" Lee inquired.
"No, thanks to you two. The bomb squad swept the reception area that night and found three of those devices – enough explosives to take out a city block. The death toll would have been horrendous – not to mention the international implications. You saved a lot of lives."
Lee looked at Amanda and shook his head. "No, Tom Fellows and Senator Holstein are the ones who are really responsible. They're the heroes – after all, they paid the highest price. I just followed a paper trail."
Billy shook his head sadly. "Right to the Agency. It's going to take the intelligence community a long time to recover from this. Which brings me to the other reason for my visit."
"What?"
"A job offer. There's going to be a total reorganization at the Agency. Colonel Jack Holstein is going to be named acting Director."
Amanda raised her eyebrows. "The Senator's cousin?"
"Yes. The President will make the announcement the first of next week. He has a pretty extensive background in intelligence – and a vested interest in 'cleaning house'." Billy paused a moment before continuing. "I've been offered a promotion – head of East Coast Operations. I'll have responsibility for our D.C. and New York departments."
Lee smiled. "That's wonderful, Billy. If anyone deserves it, you do. Congratulations."
"Yes, congratulations, sir."
"Which brings me to my point. Lee, I want you as my Director of Field Operations in D.C."
"Me? Administration?" Lee said skeptically.
"Not exactly. When I say Field Operations, I mean just that. You'd have staff to handle the administrative end. You'd be primarily responsible for the assignment and supervision of field agents. You wouldn't necessarily be trapped behind a desk. You could pick and choose your assignments. Work with whatever agents you choose. Of course, as the East Coast Chief I would have the option of clipping your wings if you decided to go off alone on some highly dangerous mission again." Billy smiled over at Amanda. "Although, given your present circumstances, I have the feeling that's not going to be a major issue."
"I don't know what to say, Billy."
"Say yes."
"If you'd asked me this a month ago, I would have jumped at the chance. But after everything that's happened…"
"The pay starts at GG18 – management level."
Lee glanced at Amanda. "A lot of things have changed in the last month. And we have a lot of decisions to make. I'll have to let you know."
"I understand, Scarecrow. Take all the time you need. You have some leave coming. It may help put things in perspective. But I hope your answer's yes. We need you." With a nod to Amanda, Billy left them alone together.
Amanda held his hand, intertwining his fingers with hers. "That was a pretty nice offer, Scarecrow."
He sighed. "I should be pleased, I know."
"But?"
"Amanda, it's just that – for the past ten years, I've put my life on the line every day because I believed in what I was doing, believed the Agency was making a positive difference in the world. To find out the corruption reached through so many layers – it's like discovering you've built a house on a rotten foundation. Sometimes it's just too damn late to rebuild."
Amanda brought his hand to her lips and kissed his fingers. "Like I said, whatever you decide is fine with me."
He smiled. "Whatever 'we' decide. This is our future. No matter what, I've got you."
"And I've got you." His lips closed on hers in a kiss.
* * * * *
Amanda threw open the apartment door, setting the small suitcase down just inside the hall. Lee followed close behind her, shaking his head in amazement.
"God it feels good to be out that hospital." He glanced briefly around the room. "There were times I thought I'd never see this place again."
Turning to him with a smile, she put her arm around his waist. "Come on, let's get you off your feet."
"Amanda, I'm not an invalid. I don't need to be fussed over."
"I'm afraid you're just going to have to get used to it." She led him to the couch and helped him sit down. Despite his protests to the contrary, Amanda could see that he was still suffering from the aftereffects of his month-long ordeal. The simple trip home from the hospital appeared to have exhausted him, but she knew Lee would never admit it.
She left him comfortably ensconced on the couch and went to retrieve his suitcase, bringing it into the bedroom. Lee's voice called to her from the other room.
"Amanda, where is everybody?"
She poked her head into the room. "I took Mother to the airport this morning. She's going to spend a month with Aunt Lillian."
"What about Philip and Jamie?"
Amanda smiled. "Didn't I tell you? They're at Joe's."
He frowned slightly. "Is Joe still giving you a hard time about their safety?"
"No, nothing like that. We had a long talk and I think he's okay with it. Actually, he's okay with everything. We just agreed that the boys would spend a few weeks with him. We both thought it would be good for Jamie. With everything he's been through, we felt he should be in familiar surroundings and he's comfortable at Joe's."
He eyed her warily. "But you would tell me if there was a problem?"
She smiled at him from across the room. "Yes, I would tell you if there was a problem. Now, can I get you anything?"
He returned her smile, nodding his head affirmatively. He patted the spot next to him on the sofa.
She slowly crossed the room. "Okay, we'll sit for a minute. Then you really need to get into bed."
He put his arm around her and pulled her close, kissing the top of her head. "Okay."
Amanda twisted slightly to look at him. "I meant to sleep."
"Amanda…"
"You need your rest. Your body needs to heal."
His lips curved up in their most seductive smile. "Trust me, that's not what my body needs right now."
She smiled in response, cupping his face in her hands and gently tracing the dark circles under his eyes with her fingers. "You look pretty exhausted to me. And the doctor said you're supposed to be on bed rest."
He leaned forward and kissed her tenderly. "Let's go to bed and I promise not to get up for a week."
She put a restraining hand on his chest. "Lee, I don't know if we should."
He looked at her with a puzzled expression. "Amanda, is something wrong?"
She looked away quickly. "I'm just worried about you, that's all."
He leaned back on the couch, pulling her into his arms. She sighed softly, feeling her body instinctively relax against him. She felt his arms tighten around her, holding her so close that she could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. He rested his chin on her head.
"Amanda, you don't have to worry about me. I'm fine. Nothing's going to happen to me."
She buried her head in his chest, a single tear trailing down her cheek. "I thought I'd lost you for good. I can't even begin to tell you how that felt." She pulled away slightly, avoiding his gaze. "And now that there's nothing keeping us apart, all of a sudden, I'm scared."
He placed his hand on her chin and tilted her head up until she was forced to look him in the eye. "Of me?"
"No," she whispered, "of how much I love you. Lee, there's nothing I want more than to go into your bedroom and make love with you." She caught the expression on his face and immediately amended her statement. "I mean our bedroom." Her voice fell to a whisper. "It's almost all I've thought about since our reunion at the train station."
"Me, too."
"But I'm afraid…" she took a deep breath, the words spilling out of her mouth in a jumble. "I'm afraid that if I let you get that close again and something happened to you, I'd never survive it this time. I guess it's just been easier to deal with the fear by keeping you at a distance. Does this make any sense?"
"Amanda, you're talking to the man who couldn't admit to himself that he loved you for over a year. I understand what you're saying perfectly. Believe me, I'm the past master at keeping people at a distance." He tenderly brushed the hair from her eyes. "But as you're always telling me, if you're really going to live, sometimes you have to take a chance. And if I've learned one thing from this experience it's that I need you. My life doesn't make sense without you."
He paused for minute, looking over her head at the picture on the wall. "I'm sorry for what you went through when you thought I was dead. I don't even want to think about how I'd feel if the situation was reversed. And I'm sorry for not confiding in you from the beginning. I was just trying to protect you and I know I ended up hurting you more than if I'd been straight with you from the beginning." He took a deep breath before continuing. "This marriage stuff is new to me and I'm still working on getting it right. I can't promise you I won't make the same mistake again. I can only promise you to try and do better." He paused nervously and looked into her eyes. "Amanda, talk to me. This is the longest you've ever gone without speaking since I met you."
"I don't want to talk right now." She rose slowly from the couch and held out her hand. "Let's finish this in the bedroom."
EPILOGUE
The two men met quietly in the shadows. The taller one passed an envelope to his compatriot.
"It's all there – should be more than enough."
"Any trouble?"
"No. Things are beginning to run smoothly again."
"Good. I always knew that fool Smyth would turn out to be good for something. Imagine - that idiot actually believed he was running the show." The two men smiled at their private joke. "I need to drop out of sight for a while. It'll be much healthier."
"A few years in a warm climate should work wonders."
"No one suspects?"
"No. Everyone thinks you're dead. They're convinced it's finished."
"Good. Then things are all going according to plan. If you have any questions, ask them now. We'll be at contact zero for the next few years…"
"No. Don't worry. Things are set on my end. We won't need to meet again until…"
"…until the Phoenix rises from the ashes."
The two men shook hands. "Good luck, Jack," Senator Holstein called to his cousin, the Colonel. He turned and headed quickly to his waiting plane.
The clouds spit a few flakes of early snow into the November afternoon. Hand in hand, Lee and Amanda Stetson walked down the steps of their new house in Rockville, Maryland. Amanda glanced over her shoulder at the front porch swing and the small stable in the distance. Lee put his arms around her and smiled.
"Nice, isn't it?"
She brushed the tears from her eyes. He looked at her with concern. "You okay? You're not sorry we didn't rebuild in Arlington, are you?"
She shook her head. "No. These are happy tears. We've waited so long to really be a family. Sometimes all this seems to good to be true."
"You'll just have to get used to being happy. That's the order of business from now on."
"It will be good to have the boys back here with us. Joe's been great to have them stay with him while we've been 'homeless', but I've missed them."
"I know you have."
She smiled and kissed him briefly. "But it's been nice to have the time alone with you."
"I've enjoyed it, too," he grinned. "But it's time we were all a real family. I can't believe Joe didn't give you any hassle about the boys' safety."
"He's let that subject drop."
"Still, that's quite an about face."
"Well, he knows you saved Jamie's life. But I suspect the fact that he's spending Thanksgiving with Carrie may have had something to do with it."
Lee raised an eyebrow. "I hope that works out. I'm glad he's starting to move on with his life. Us, too. It's back to work on Monday."
She nodded solemnly. Lee looked at her with sudden concern. "You're not sorry I accepted Billy's offer, are you? You know it's still not too late for both of us to walk away."
"No. I knew all along you couldn't turn your back on the Agency, Scarecrow. This is your chance to help rebuild what you've worked for all your life. With a solid foundation this time." She smiled warmly at him.
He glanced at his watch. "If we're going to pick up Philip and Jamie before we meet your mother at the airport, we'd better get going."
"I know. Mother's had a good time visiting her sister, but I suspect she'll be glad to be home. And glad to see the boys."
"And me?"
"You don't have anything to worry about. My mother is your biggest fan. She once told me that on a scale of one to ten, you're an eleven."
"Oh, yeah?"
"Don't let it go to your head, Stetson."
He pulled her to him and kissed her softly.
"What was that for?" she asked teasingly.
"That was a thank you. For my new family."
She smiled in return. "You can thank me some more later."
"Count on it," he grinned. "Let's get going, Mrs. Stetson."
THE END