"He's leaving you hmmm?" Jamie spun to find Rick standing very close to her. Her heart jumped into her throat as she backed up a step.

"We aren't breaking up, if that is what you are asking." Jamie's brain was not functioning as fast as she wanted it to.

"Sure seems like it to me. You just don't want to admit your feelings for me." Rick leaned in again.

Shuddering, Jamie felt a dark cloud descend around her despite the evenings' warmth. She should have known that this was how things were going to be. 'It could be worse,' she tried to convince herself. "The only feelings I have for you, Rick, revolve around revulsion." Stepping around him, she headed back to the house.

Pausing behind the shed, Jamie could her the two girls talking.

"He's an investigator?" Tasha's voice drifted clearly in the breeze. "That explains the glamorous car, but what's Jamie doing with a man like that?" Conflicting emotions warred inside Jamie.

"I'm not sure. But they aren't lovers. I wonder if he was stuck with her just 'cause of her horsey knowledge." Beth's comment bit deep.

"She does know horses, and she can ride. But other than that...." Picking that moment to reveal herself, Jamie fired a dirty look in the direction of the two girls, catching Tasha's half shrug as she rounded the corner. Tasha at least had the decency to look shamefaced, Beth had no such concerns. Carrying herself high, trying to adopt Michael's arrogant stance, Jamie walked right on by.

Closing the door to her room, she slumped against it. She should have seen this coming. After all the vicious comments, all the game playing, all their obvious advances towards the man she was falling in love with...

Maybe it was time to consider her options. She was good at her job at the Foundation. Maybe she needed to find another job in that field. Devon would give her a glowing letter of reference, as would Michael. Lord knew they were both well respected in the investigative fields. Pushing off the door, she walked the few steps to the bedroom area. Michael's two duffle bags were on the bed, half packed. He'd be leaving in the morning.

How the girls had found out about what he was actually doing at Greenlands was beyond her, but now that the word was out, it would spread quickly. It was all dissolving in front of her again. All the nasty attitudes from Knight Industries came back to haunt her. Grabbing her jacket, she headed out, not wanting to contemplate watching Michael finish packing.



Jamie was walking down to the barn in the early morning sun. By the time she had returned last night, Michael was fast asleep. She had lay down facing him, watching him until she fell asleep.

Glancing to the parking area, she watched as Michael closed Kitt's hatch.

Seeing her, a smile crossed his face. Returning the smile, she walked to the partners. It would be strange not seeing them around anymore.

"Where you going to leave without saying goodbye?" Jamie teased.

"I'd never do a thing like that. You have saved me the long walk back up to the house." Jamie fired him a half dirty look, only to receive his laughing smile in return.

Looking around it faded quickly. "Jamie, I need you to promise me something."

"What?" She couldn't understand the concern in his voice.

"Be careful."

"Michael, look, everyone knows why you were here. I have no idea who found out, but the word has spread about you being an investigator."

"Which means what for you?" Placing his hands on her shoulders, he
realized how much he didn't want to leave her.

"The same as it did at the Foundation I guess." Tipping her head sideways, she squinted up at him. She had never felt small when with him, but today, she felt tiny, inconsequential. "They've already started. I'm used to it. It's no big deal."

Michael sighed, not believing a word of it. "Just do me a favor and watch yourself. This isn't over."

Jamie wondered what he was referring to, the case or their relationship.

"Ja, promise me." Michael's stern voice brought her back from her thoughts.

Glancing up at him, his blue eyes filled with concern, "I will Michael, as long as you do the same."

"I'll make sure of it." Jamie smiled at Kitt.

"Take care of him Sweetheart, and yourself." Jamie sighed, "before I forget." Twisting her arm, she unbuckled the comlink and handed it back to Michael. "I know you didn't like me having it in the first place. And I never used it anyway."

Taking it from her hand, Michael held it for a moment, then pulled Jamie into a tight hug. He wouldn't let this end. He couldn't. Not this time. "I'm not leaving you Ja." Keeping her close he kissed her.

This time Jamie broke the caress. "I need to get a move on." Her voice had a hitch to it Michael had never heard before.

Nodding once, he moved to car. "Bye Ja."

"Bye Mi." She touched Kitt briefly before walking away. By the time she reached the bleachers, she heard Kitt's engine turn over and gravel spray as Michael drove out. Her head dropped, feeling like she would never see him again. She smirked as the movie Dirty Dancing sprung into her mind. But this was real life, not a movie, and things like that didn't happen in her life. Her fairy tale was over.

Opening Britt's stall, she waited until the mare turned to greet her. "Hey Beauty, it's just us now. I guess it always has been." Pulling the mare out, she began to tack up for her morning ride.


*

He had called Devon, arranging the older man to meet with him as soon as possible. They had both agreed that out in the open was their best bet. Two hours out of LA, Michael pulled into the parkland conservation. Spotting Devon's car, he parked beside the red convertible. The park was deserted at this time of day. The gravel ended at a line of cement parking pillars. The grassland stretched out to a nearby lake. From where he was parked, he could just see the rocky embankment. Trees lined the parking area and concealed it from the main roadway. Sliding onto Kitt's hood, he waited for his boss to join him. To anyone passing by, they looked like a father and son discussing business outside on a pleasant day. Kitt's scanners remained on full. Not letting his guard down.

"I take it you have something up your sleeve?" Devon settled comfortably against the red car's hood. Michael had parked close so they could speak quietly.

"I have a ringer for you. How's this for a wrench in the works." Michael gathered himself. Trying to keep the hostility out of his voice, "you think you know your friends, or at least I did years ago. People can change, do things so far beyond what you consider within their personality." Devon was beginning to worry, it was not like Michael to ramble on. He was well aware of Michael's feelings towards Jamie, but whatever the younger man had to say was disturbing him. "I had Kitt check out Wilkins." Devon had suspected as much. He had done the same, sure as Michael was that Wilkins was hiding something. "During the Board meeting, there was something bothering me, but I couldn't put my finger on it. Until I had Kitt compare the features of Wilkins with Jamie's." Devon's expression darkened. It couldn't be. "68% match. Wilkins is Jamie's father." The older man was silent for a moment as the initial shock wore off.

"Are you absolutely sure?"

Michael nodded sadly. "Kitt is."

"I don't understand. Then why treat her as he has? Why alienate her?"

"It's obvious he knows. I wonder if Jamie's mother wanted a child and the only way to accomplish this was to use Wilkins. Whatever the reasoning, he's after her now. Whether he wants her, or wants her dead is the question." Devon frowned, throwing an appalled look at Michael.

"I could never dream of treating my own child like that."

"Me neither." Michael sighed, gathering his thoughts. "When Jamie was born, or even when her parents died, did Wilkins act strangely?"

Devon took a moment before answering, recalling the times Michael was inquiring about. "I don't remember anything particular when Jamie was born, but I do recall that after Bruce and Gail died in the car accident, Dave did ask what was going to happen to their child. I considered it a normal concern at the time. Wilton immediately took in the child. She was distressed, but understood the implications rather well. She and Wilton had always been close, so the move was not an unexpected one."

"I wonder if Wilkins wanted his daughter, but couldn't find a discrete way of accomplishing that."

"If that's true, I can't imagine what must have taken place in his mind to twist that man to this degree."

Sitting up straighter on Kitt's hood, Michael crossed his ankle over his knee. "What I want to know is whether this is all interrelated, or if the case and Wilkins sudden need to ruin Jamie's life is coincidence?"

"That is a frightening thought." Devon watched Michael for a moment. "Tell me, what is the status of your relationship with her?"

Michael smiled at Devon's tenuous question. "I love her Devon." He answered simply. "She has never asked me to change. If anything she has gone out of her way to get to know Kitt and encourage us."

Smiling for the first time, "that sounds like her. Jamie would never ask you to change. If she has a complaint, she will voice it, that has always been her way."

"Yeah, I know that one." Michael began to realize just how much he wanted to talk about this, to organize his own feelings and his unforgiving need for Devon's approval in this matter. "I was beginning to think that I was never going to be a part of a loving relationship again."

Sliding to sit on his car, Devon knew Michael deserved some straight answers. "You need to consider yourself very lucky if it does come to pass. I have said it to you before, as well as having experienced first hand the dangers that befalls loving someone in this line of work." Michael's head dropped. "But I do believe you are right. If there is one woman who would not only put up with you and your partner, but accept you, Jamie is that woman." Michael's head snapped back up. He had not been expecting such a positive remark from his mentor. "I had considered this turn of events a short time ago, and what I see, I believe was another one of Wilton's intentions. I will never know, of course, but you and Jamie are well suited to one another. It is obvious that she is just as in love with you, as you are with her." Michael starred at the other man, overwhelmed. "Silence, from you? Now I am surprised. Is this not what you wanted to hear?" Devon teased, knowing full well what Michael had wanted.

"I just... I wasn't expecting you to say that." Devon laughed.

"Despite the need of having to act as your boss, I do care for you. I know I am not one to express such things, yet we have come a great distance from our first meeting. I understand what you want from life and I am envious. You and I underwent much of the same training in the military. The difference being that I believed them. I gave up my life for the ideals. You, however did not."

Michael snorted. "Yes I did. Look at my tour in Nam. I was the heartless killer as well."

"You didn't remain trapped in that mind frame." Devon argued.

Placing a gentle hand on Kitt's hood, rubbing slightly, "I had friends who changed my mind."

Devon shook his head. "You had changed before we found you."

"Stevie had a lot to do with that. She knew me before I left, and reminded me in many ways why life was worth living. I could easily have turned back after Tanya shot me. I almost did. But you and Kitt... I'm not even sure when I began to realize it, maybe after Kitt returned to me after the Comtron thugs landed me in jail. I was sure I was a goner at that point. All that fight for nothing. Then Kitt was there, ready to help, literally in the nick of time." Chancing a small, shy smile at the older man sitting comfortably across from him, "and you weren't far behind. I had been rude and ungrateful to both of you, but that didn't seem to matter. I knew Stevie cared, but I'd never known anyone to stick their neck out that far for me before."

"You were a handful, you still are." The two men chuckled. "I do envy your outlook on life. It has rubbed off on me, and I have few regrets over the past years. I said this to Jamie as well, I have no reservations of you and Jamie becoming involved."

"Thank you."

"There is no need. If you wish to discuss this further, I am no expert on relationships, but I have been told I'm a good listener."

Again Michael was left speechless, even Kitt trembled slightly under him.

"We do, however, have quite the set of circumstances ahead of us." Michael shook his head, returning to the topic at hand.

"How much do you know about Trish?"

Brow furrowing slightly, Devon crossed his arms in front of him. "I met her when Jamie was competing. She and Trish rode at the same barn, worked together. Come to think of it, those two were inseparable for the longest time. Why? What are you thinking?"

Letting out a long breath, knowing the depth of the implication he was about to make. "I asked Kitt to look into Britt's insurance. I'm not sure yet, but I think Trish may be behind the fraud."

"Preposterous." Was Devon's initial reaction. Then he looked at Michael, seeing the pained expression. "Why, Michael?"

"Just go with me on this for a minute. Then you can tell me if I'm way off base here." Devon nodded, knowing Michael, he was onto something concrete. "Trish starts up this gig. Police begin to get suspicious so she calls you asking for help, knowing you will send Jamie. Britt has been sitting wasting away, one hell of a talented horse with no rider. Jamie and I appear, quelling the police for a time. The attacks slow down. In the mean time, Jamie is training horses and Kitt and I are spinning our wheels. Now Britt is showing again, people are taking notice of her, Trish and her facility. Business increases."

Eyes widening as Devon catches on. "And once Britt is at full potential..."

"Yeah, they'll take her out."

"And Jamie?"

"May get caught in the crossfire."

"You must be sure before you act."

"I know. Kitt and I are working as hard as we can, but we don't want to be using official Foundation channels."

"And how, prey tell, does one go about that?"

Michael blushed guiltily. "Kitt and I have found a few ways around it." He explained slowly.

Laughing with great humour. "Why does that not surprise me? I know Kitt was programmed to compliment your personality, but I would never have imagined the kinds, and amounts of trouble you two manage to find." Shaking his head as he slid off his car. "Let me know what you find. Speaking in this manner might be a good idea for the time being."

Turning to look through the windscreen, "how are you doing with that information?"

"I'm still looking into it Michael. I'm presently in the database of the insurance company Greenlands uses. I have been looking for a horse matching Britt's description. So far I have found nothing."

"What if she's using another company solely for Britt?"

"It's a possibility, but that will make it far more difficult to locate."

"Do what you can Pal. I just hope I'm wrong."

"If you are right, Jamie is in a great deal of danger." Devon placed a hand on Michael's arm, finding him very tense.

"I know, and I have no way of protecting her."

"How about a vacation Michael?"

"What!?" Then he clued in, smiling deviously. "A no contact vacation?"

"Just you and Kitt." The glint in Michael's eyes was all the thanks Devon needed.

"I'll stop into the Foundation, we'll discuss this, and then drive off."

"Make sure Kitt's homing signal is off." With an affectionate squeeze on Michael's shoulder, the older man dropped into his car. "I'll see you at home." Michael just nodded, then watched the car back out and disappear.

"And what are we going to be doing on this supposed vacation?" Kitt asked, not sure what is partner had in mind.

"How does parking on a discrete ridge for a few days sound?" If Kitt had a head, he'd be shaking it.

"I truly do not understand why you and Devon had such conflicts at the start." Michael laughed as he walked around the car.

"I need to be sure she's safe while you are searching for that insurance information. I know that means that I'm not pulling my fair share, but..."

"You don't need to explain yourself Michael. If you are right, we need to be close to her."

"Thank you for understanding." Michael reached for the ignition. "Onward and homeward Partner."


*


Michael dozed fitfully in the car. It had been five days since he and Kitt had left Jamie. So far, nothing unusual had occurred, to his relief. Kitt had uncovered one insurance policy that matched Britt's registered name. The recipient of said policy was Trish, but the policy was only for five thousand dollars. None the less, it didn't sit well with Michael. There was more to this than met the eye. Kitt was still digging. They had also tapped into Greenlands phones. The only call of consequence was a possible sponsorship contract for Jamie. Trish had not been pleased about this one. It required Ja to leave Greenlands and return to LA. Jamie had sounded like she was considering the idea.

He and Kitt had watched her, day and night, both fearing the worst. Kitt had come up with the insurance information the day before and Devon had asked to be present when Michael approached Trish with this theory. Grudgingly, Michael had agreed after Kitt had reasoned with him. Michael had to admit that he was too close to certain aspects of this case, and Devon had known the woman well. He might be able to pick up nuances that Michael wouldn't.

Sighing, he shifted again. He was sick and tired of motels, and sitting on his hands. What he really wanted was to get her the hell out of there.

Kitt's scanner flashed as he watched the horse and her rider cross the road a little earlier than usual.

"Michael," Kitt called softly as the communications chime sounded.


*

Her morning gallop had become the only time she felt she had to herself. Typically she left the farm around 6 am, returning around 9 am. Walking up the hill on the empty gravel road, Jamie let her mind wander. She longed to see Michael. She hadn't heard from him since he left the week before.

"They probably sent him off on another assignment before he had a chance to step out of Kitt." Britt flicked her ears back briefly, then resumed their relaxed state. Moving the mare into the long, ground covering trot, Jamie tried to focus. This job just didn't have the appeal that it used to. She loved riding Britt, working with her, but it wasn't the Foundation. Wilton had been right - as always - he had given her a job that not only was she good at, but felt fulfilled with. And Michael... she couldn't stop her brain from drifting in his direction. Rick had been disgusted when he found out why she and Michael had really joined the farm. The girls put up with her only because of her knowledge, Rick had no such reason to support her remaining at Greenlands. He made her life miserable. She had thought his advances were bad, they paled in comparison. His cruel 'jokes' reminded her of some of the Foundation's members. Treating her like she was not worth the time to look at, becoming more cruel as time wore on.

She had thrown herself into her training and to some degree her teaching. The things she was good at - here anyways - in a vain attempt to forget; to forget Michael and Kitt, to forget her old job, her other life. She was glad she hadn't sold her bungalow yet. She would find another job, then move Britt to a facility closer to where she lived. She needed a fresh start. Maybe she would see him again. Lifting her head, she felt the wind dry the tears that she didn't know had fallen. She would get her life in order again. Her stubborn streak would demand it. Once she settled down, she'd call Devon, let him know where she was and what she was doing. He would pass it along to Michael, no doubt. Then hopefully, they could at least resume their friendship. She smiled, remembering all the times he'd dropped by, sometimes full of life, other times, depressed and needing to talk. She missed that part of her life immensely. The closeness she had felt when with Michael, and recently, Kitt as well.

Picking up canter, Jamie remembered how Michael had said that she and the mare were a perfect match. Jamie had retaliated by commenting that her relationship with Britt was much like his relationship with Kitt. He appeared to consider that for a moment before a warm smile touched his lips. He looked at her differently after that. Like she had opened a very personal door for him, one he was very happy to leave open for her.

The vehicle behind her didn't grab her attention at first. Traffic was few and far between and most people were very considerate of horses. Britt's buck caught her off guard. Looking back, her eyes widened. The truck was on the shoulder just behind them. She didn't have to tell Britt to take off. Rebalancing herself, she let the mare go, only to hear the truck shoot gravel as it sped after them. Glancing back over her shoulder, she saw the truck weave threateningly.

"Jesus!" The truck closed the distance. All Jamie saw was the metallic beige grill tap Britt's haunches. The mare squealed, trying to regain her footing. There was no way they could outrun the man in the truck. Taking one last look back, dark metallic beige jeep Cherokee, man inside, windows too dark to see much else, towels draped over the bumpers.

"Oh God." Looking around, there was nowhere to go, not yet. The shoulder dropped off down a cliff face to the river on one side, on the other was a hill with a barbed wire fence. Giving Britt more rein, she kicked her on, feeling the mare panic under her. Again the jeep closed the distance, Jamie sent the mare across the road, just barley missing being hit again. He was out to kill them. The thought was like ice in her veins. She had to keep thinking, to find a way off the road, onto terrain that would slow down the Jeep. She saw it, just up the road, a small ditch, a rustic wooden fence, then into the brush. If she was lucky, the trees would be too close together for him to follow. Weaving to fake out the driver, she darted across the road. Britt jumped the ditch and the fence in one gigantic leap. Clinging to Britt's mane, Jamie hung on. The sound of splintering wood told Jamie he was still behind them, and sent Britt skittering sideways. Trees lashed at her face and arms, even as she ducked close to Britt's neck, the limbs tried to pull her off the horse. Her heart was racing, her lungs screaming as they raced on. Britt was lathered from head to toe, in fear and exertion. They wouldn't be able to keep this up much longer. Looking back, the sun and shadows glinted off the hood of the vehicle a short distance behind them. He was waiting, knowing the pair would tire and make an easy target. Sitting up more, she took the branches in the face; her being in balance would conserve Britt's energy. Keeping her eyes out for groundhog holes in the dirt, and for a way off this path, another route, anything to shake their tail. There was nothing wide enough for horse and rider. Jumping another fence, she found herself crossing open road. Three strides on concrete before down another ditch. She heard squealing tyres and honking. Hoping for the sound of sheering metal and shattering glass, her heart sank as the sound of splintering wood reached her again. She cursed as the path opened up again. The truck caught Britt's hind legs, sending them stumbling. Sitting up, pulling on the reins she prayed for all she was worth. If they went down, they were goners. Grabbing the bit, Britt hauled her feet back up, shooting off again. Scrambling up the steep embankment, they leapt another fence. Hearing tyres squeal, she looked into the car that barely missed them and just about fell off in relief. Michael was staring out of Kitt at her. Pulling up, she turned back. Michael was already out of Kitt.

"Follow me!" Jamie just nodded, not questioning him. Talking off, staying close to Kitt's bumper, Britt seemed to know it was almost over. Three concessions over, the semi was parked, ramp down. Pulling up behind, Michael motioned for her to ride inside. The mare balked at first. Michael grabbed her bridle and lead them up. As soon as she was inside, the ramp came up. Michael held the skittish mare as she danced around Kitt's area. They heard the engine turn over and the vehicle begin to move. Devon and Bonnie stepped out of the front section, scaring the hell out of Britt who tried to rear, Jamie instinctively ducking in the confinement of the trailer. Michael's hold prevented the mare from going up. A few moments later, Britt settled. Michael moved to her side and reached up to help Jamie off. Swinging her leg over Britt's neck, she placed her hands on his shoulders, his on her hips as she slid down to be engulfed in his protective hug. Gulping back the reaction sobs, she clung to him for a moment.

"S'okay. I got ya," Michael reassured as he held her tightly.

Slowly relaxing, he set her down on her shaky legs. Turning from Michael almost immediately, pulling off her helmet, she dropped to look at Britt's back legs. Tears blurred her eyes. Looking at the others in the semi, "what do you have in the way of first aid?" Her voice was gruff, her whole body was trembling as she knelt beside her horse. Devon smiled warmly, knowing Jamie was as protective of her mare as Michael was of Kitt.

"I'll gather what we have." The older man disappeared up front again.

Standing, Jamie looked over her horse. Britt's head was half hanging, half held up in fear and suspicion. Loosening her girth, she turned to Michael, who was gently holding the horse. "How did you know?" Bonnie had taken a seat at the computer watching, greatly upset.

Rubbing Britt's face, Michael shifted his sad and worried eyes to the woman standing near him. "I had my suspicions. I had Kitt look into who the recipient of Britt's insurance was. But it all made sense when I added the fact that she knew how valuable Britt would become once you two began showing."

"Trish." Jamie had also had her suspicions, but to know that her once good friend had set her up.

"I was about to pick up Devon, then head over to tell you when Kitt picked up your flight." Devon returned with what little he could dig up. Taking the iodine and a few sterilized pads, Jamie set to work on her horse.

"Hold her good. I don't think she'll do anything, but we're both rather freaked." Michael smirked darkly. It took her 20 minutes to clean out the wounds. A small puddle of iodine and blood pooled beneath both hind feet by the time she was done. But the bleeding had stopped, and the skin that had been scrapped off was cleanly torn away. She wouldn't need stitches, but she may never be sound again. Moving to Britt's front legs, she ran shaky hands down both, finding all sorts of lumps and bumps. Britt's legs had been so clean before; her muscles and tendons running in perfectly smooth lines. Glancing up at Michael, "can Kitt do x-rays?"

"I can Jamie." Kitt's voice came from the console.

"Can you check her front legs, knees down?"

"Give me a moment and I'll have them on the monitors for you." Brushing her sweaty hair from her eyes, she had a feeling she knew what Kitt was going to show her.

Hearing the monitors on the far side of the work area come to life, they walked over. Jamie's hand covered her mouth for a second as she tried to control her reaction.

Jamie startled as she felt the familiar hands on her shoulders. "What is it?" Michael had leaned in close, but had no real idea what he was looking at. Devon was also beside her.

Swallowing, she took a deep breath. "Pulled suspensory ligaments." Michael heard the relief in her voice.

"Meaning?" He glanced at her, seeing her focused on the screens.

"Meaning she has a good chance of recovery. In that aspect anyway. It'll take time and care, but it should heal. Her back legs may be another story." Turning around, Britt nickered. Walking back over, Jamie pulled the saddle from her horse, then the bridle, letting Britt rub her sweat covered face on her back. Devon chuckled as Jamie reached out, placing a hand on Michael's stomach to keep from being thrown across the trailer. Looking up, she half frowned when Britt was satisfied. "Where are we going?"

Devon took a seat; he hadn't realized how scared he had been once Michael had voiced his hunch, then more so when Michael had called from the car to say he needed somewhere to hide a rider and a horse. There had been no need to discuss this, the answer was simple and expected. Grabbing his tea cup, he relaxed for the first time in over 24 hours. "I have a friend, not far from FLAG headquarters. He has a breeding establishment and is looking for a trainer. I mentioned to him that you might be interested. I called him a short time ago and he agreed to take in Britt. For now anyway, and longer if you wish to take on the job."

Jamie nodded. They were safe. She should have known. Michael would never leave her. Sitting against the wall within reach of Britt, she dropped her head back against the silver interior. Britt's head was hanging now, one back leg bent as she rested it.

Sliding down the wall beside her, Michael slipped an arm around her waist, hugging her to him. Her head snuggled into his shoulder as she finally relaxed as well, though she kept half an eye on her horse. His heart had just about dropped into his stomach when Kitt had desperately told him what was going on out there. They had no way of getting to her either, no way to help her, until she decided to scale the hill and jump onto the road directly in front of them. Kitt had reacted, stopping the car as the horse passed. He could hear the other vehicle down below, trying for a moment to follow, then drove back to the path that would eventually get him to the road. He had to get her to safety before that.

Now, as they sat on the floor of the semi, as he held her, he realized how terrified he had been. He couldn't let what happened to Stevie happen again.

Bonnie stood slowly, approaching the two on the floor. "Kitt, have you checked Jamie?" Bonnie noticed the stiffening horse as she gently turned Jamie's face from Michael's chest. The scratches were deep, red and angry looking.

"Yes Bonnie. Just scratches and a great deal of adrenaline." They all reacted to his humour.

"Do you want anything?" Bonnie asked.

"No thanks."

"What about Britt?"

"She shouldn't, not yet. It's bad enough that she's just standing." Bonnie nodded, then backed away, touching the forehead of the exhausted horse in her diagnostic area. "Bon," Bonnie paused, looking back at her friend. "Thank you. I know we are making a mess of your semi."

"Of who's semi?" Devon looked up from his paper. Bonnie fired him a dirty look.

"Alright 'our' semi." She conceded as she dropped back to her chair, focusing for a moment on her computer screen. Devon nodded his approval.

"Now I know why I spend all my time on the road and very little time with these two." He hugged Jamie tighter for a second.

"I'll have you know, we have informative discussions." Michael tried to hold in the smile as the older man reprimanded him.

"That's what I'm afraid of." Devon just looked at Michael, then dismissed him with a grunt, returning to his paper.

Jamie smiled, too tired to do much else. It was going to be a long drive, she knew that. The trailer had wonderful suspension; inside, you barely felt the turns in the road. Bonnie's work for sure. "He was going to run us off the road," Jamie stated quietly.

"I know. I'm partially thankful that he decided to toy with you two a bit. Gave Kitt and me a chance to get to you."

"He would have gotten away with it too. It would have looked like a simple hit and run."

Michael took a deep breath, calming himself with the feel of her against him. She was safe and unharmed, leaning heavily into his side. "But he didn't. Let's get you two to safety, then deal with the bad guys."

Tipping her face up to look at him, "thank you. I haven't said that yet. I was running out of options out there."

"I don't know how you stayed ahead of him."

"Luck and desperation." Michael snorted.

"You don't need to thank me." Running the fingers of his right hand through her hair, brushing the dark red curls away from her face again, he noticed how tired and drawn out she looked. Her eyes were red, contrasting with the green, her face was red and blotchy with scratches across her cheeks. Her arm was the same as it lay across his abdomen. Catching her eyes, his fears engulfed him again. He had almost lost her today. Fanning his hand across her cheek, he held her as he bent towards her. Her eyes were closed before his lips touched hers. Shifting closer, forgetting the others, she lost herself in his kiss. She had missed him so much, to be in his arms again, feeling his heart pounding beneath her hand that had moved to center of his chest was paradise. Breaking the kiss, he stared down at her for a second, then pulled her close again, smiling as she fell asleep, her arm dropping into his lap, her head cradled in the crook of his neck as he held her tightly.




"Hey," Michael nudged her awake. Opening her eyes, she squinted into the florescent lighting. Michael was still holding her on the floor. Britt was standing in front of them, looking much worse for wear. Shifting, Jamie half groaned, her whole body rebelling against the idea of movement as Michael helped her stand. Grabbing Britt's bridle, she easily slipped the leather on the horse, holding her tight as the ramp dropped. Britt's head raised and she turned to watch it, but didn't move otherwise. Kitt was parked behind the ramp, having followed the semi back. Slowly she lead the mare down, Britt moving as stiffly as she did.

"Hi!" Britt jumped at the voice that called from behind the barn. The facilities were gorgeous. White barn and arena sitting in the middle with fields surrounding. The long driveway was almost masked by the rolling green on either side. The semi had turned around in the driveway's open area in front of the buildings so that the trailer was facing the barn. An older man, mid fifties if Jamie had to guess, strode on over. "Jamie I presume?" He reached for her hand. Taking it, she nodded. "I'm Ryan and welcome."

"Thank you. I know we are appearing on very short notice."

Waving her apology off. "Not another word about it. Let's get your mare settled. It looks like she had a rough time."

"You have no idea."

His sad smile was very friendly. "I've watched you two perform a few times. Lovely bit of riding."

"Thanks, I didn't know anyone was looking." She chuckled as they entered the cool barn. The inside was just as picturesque as the outside. Wide aisle way with large stalls running down both sides. The stalls were oak, the isle was concrete and the breeze ran through wonderfully.

"I don't keep many horses. About 15 at a time. The barn holds 20. We can talk more about the job offer once you are settled and recovered somewhat from your ordeal. Do you need anything for her?" He nodded towards the horse as Jamie lead her into the stall Ryan pointed out.

"I'm going to need a vet to look at her. I'll retrieve my stuff from the other farm as soon as possible. Right now I think the best thing for her would be rest and peace. She has a pulled suspensory and the backs of her hind legs are open. The truck caught her as we were running."

"Damn fool drivers. They get their kicks in the cruelest ways." Jamie's eyes dropped. She figured he didn't know the true reasoning. Britt dropped to roll off some of the dried sweat, grunting the entire time.

"I guess she's comfortable." Jamie commented as Michael peered over her shoulder.

"I'll see about getting the vet in for the morning."

"Thank you."

"Don't mention it. I'll show you where to put your stuff, then you can let the gentleman, who has been hovering around you, take you home." Jamie couldn't help but laugh, especially when Michael turned a slight shade of red.

After depositing her tack and a few words to Ryan about Britt, her feeding and care, Michael gave him a card with Kitt's direct line. Shooing them out of the barn, Ryan watched the black car drive off. Devon had mentioned his top operative before, as well as the girl he considered a daughter. Now, seeing them, despite what she had been through, he could feel the growing bond between them. If they were looking, they had a relationship that could withstand any of life's rigors.




"Can you take me home, I mean back to the bungalow. I'd really like to change?"

"Sure, no problem. Do you want to head back to Trish's today?"

"Yeah, I would, if that's okay with you?"

Michael reached to take her hand while he was driving, lacing his fingers through hers. "I'd like to get you the hell away from there as fast as possible. The sooner we get you packed and out of there, the better I'll feel. And this will have us back in time for the vet in the morning." The streets were becoming familiar again. It had been a long time since she had been home, she hadn't realized how homesick she was.

"I'd been thinking this morning," Jamie began as she watched the scenery pass by out her window, "of moving back and finding another job. Funny how it turns out." She glanced back at him briefly as he squeezed her fingers.

"I won't say that I'm disappointed. Even if I'm wrong about Trish. I kinda like having you around."

Jamie relaxed, happy that she wasn't the only one that could read into other peoples' words. "I like being around. I like teaching and training, but it's not the Foundation. It's not as..." How did she explain to him? After all the crap she'd endured over the years, that she wanted back into the lifestyle.

"Satisfying." Michael finished for her. "Believe me, I know."

Smiling, shaking her head, "I should have known that you'd understand. It's not like you have an easy time of it either."

"Uh, no. It's the last thing we have. Bad guys excluded. You're good Ja. I don't want to lose you." Jamie's head snapped around to face him, catching the double meaning in his words.

"Why?"

"Why what?" He turned onto her street and into her driveway.

"Why me? I don't understand. Of all the people in your life, why me, Mi?"

Turning in his seat to face her, afraid to break the spell they had created. "I could turn that back at you. How do you put up with my lifestyle? Most women go running scared, just like Stevie did. But you accept. You've never asked me to give this up, never thrown a callous remark about my leaving and being gone for weeks at a time." He paused, shrugging. "Maybe that's why, Ja. I'm not afraid to love you because you don't seem to be afraid to love me." Her mouth opened and closed. Of all the answers she had thought he might give, this open honesty touched her on a level she had not imagined could exist in her life. "I'm not saying it's going to be easy." He continued in a soft voice, reaching to caress her face.

"I don't expect it to be. But it has to be easier than what we've been through. I'm not afraid of loving you. Your life does scare me at times, but I know you, and I know Kitt. It's what you need to be doing. I can't see you fulfilled in anything else. I've seen you at your worst; depressed, injured and I've seen you at your best; giddy and happy. Both of you. I'm willing to make this work. Whatever it takes for us." She had been expecting the kiss, but the passion and fire behind it was wonderfully frightening. She hoped she was expressing as much. Easing away, Michael couldn't believe this was happening. How did such a rotten morning turn into one of the happiest days of his life?

"Will you two behave once you're out of the car?" Kitt's joyful teasing had them both laughing.

"What? You don't want us humping like rabbits?" Jamie almost started coughing at Michael's crude remark.

"I just can't imagine that between the two of you." Jamie obviously bit her tongue as she opened the door.

"We'll behave." Kitt recognized the tone of voice as Michael exited to follow Jamie. This was not a relationship to be rushed. Smiling to himself, he watched Jamie retrieve the spare key she had 'hidden' in the garage. Just as she was about to place it in the lock, the door opened. Slowly turning her head, firing a knowing, yet evil look towards the car.

"Thanks, I think." Kitt's scanner flashed at her as Michael's shoulders shook in silent laughter.



As soon as she was home, she hit the shower. She felt drained and disgusting. She looked and felt horrible. The quick shower helped, like she was washing some of the terror away with the filth. It felt even better being in her own house. In the mean time, Michael somehow scrounged up enough to make sandwiches for them to eat.

She slept through most of the drive back to Greenlands. Waking up once as her memory relived the mornings events. Then again about twenty minutes away from the farm. It was seven o'clock when Michael parked Kitt up by the house. Stepping from the car, Jamie noticed Trish run out from the house.

"Where have you been? Where's Britt? I've been frantic!"

Glancing quickly at Michael, a plan formed in Jamie's head.

"There was an accident this morning. A Jeep chased us."

"My God! Britt? Is she...?"

"She's at another farm recovering. I'm not sure what the extent of her injuries are. The vet will be out tomorrow. I called Michael when I finally found somewhere to stop."

"Of course. Do you need me to drive you in the morning?"

"No, I'm going with Michael. I'm out Trish. My heart's not in this anymore. And if Britt does recover, I don't think she'll ever come completely sound again."

"There are others Jame. You're so very good with the horses." She watched Jamie for a few minutes. She _had_ been through hell that morning. "I would appreciate some notice. A week say? So I can find another trainer."

"Not this time Trish. I need to take care of Britt. And for once, get my life in order the way I want it."

"Are you sure?" There was no way she could push the issue. Not with Michael standing guard, without risking revealing herself.

"Yeah." Jamie nodded. Michael placed a protective arm around her shoulders as he lead her to what was once their room. Packing didn't take long. Jamie had not moved in to any great degree. One last somber look out the window at the stream and she left.

Everyone was still in the barn when they entered. The girls gave Jamie a once over, then catching a glimpse of Michael standing outside, they moved out of her way. Michael hung back, seeing the determination in her. She was upset on many levels. Whoever attacked her was most likely here and he hoped that was the largest of all her reasons. Turning in a slow circle, he surveyed the landscape, looking for any clues as to who attacked Jamie, or if that person was a threat now.

While she was in the tack room, sorting out her blankets, her groom kit and finding Britt's halter, Rick appeared.

"Should have known you'd be off having a good time leaving us with all the work." He was close, too close to her. She stiffened in reaction. She was too sore and too tired to fight him.

"We were run off the road this morning Rick. Work was the last thing on my mind."

"A simple phone call would have done."

"I didn't have the opportunity." She fibbed.

"Trish was going nuts, a little consideration for us would have been nice." Rick paused, a knowing leer on his face. "You called him." Rick glanced over as Michael entered the tack room.

Stopping, her temper flaring, "I had other things on my mind at the time. Not like you would understand caring for a horse." She growled, grabbing the last of her belongings, allowing Michael to help her. He was trying to rattle her, trying to get Britt's location she assumed. He could have easily have been driving the Jeep, and her instincts told her she was right.

Leaning into the hatch as Michael placed the blankets in some sort of order to make sure there was room for rest. "Is there a Jeep around here, Kitt?" He whispered surreptitiously.

"No." Kitt whispered back. "Nor is there any sign of one within scanner range." Michael sighed. Of course it wouldn't be that easy. They would have been waiting for her return.


Jamie wasted no time with sappy goodbyes. She wanted out and fast. She wanted to believe in Trish, but the information Michael and Kitt had dug up weighed against her friend. The truth hurt and she was having a difficult time dealing with it all.



Turning out of the driveway, Michael glanced at Jamie. Her face had been set in the same expression since she woke up. Solving this case was the only way for them to put this behind them.

"Michael?" Kitt noticed his partner's stance change.

"I have an idea. Ja, do you mind if we postpone the drive home a few hours? I promise to have you back in time for the vet's visit."

"What do you have in mind?"

"I think I know where to find that Jeep."

"What?" Both Jamie and Kitt asked. Parking up on the ridge yet again, Michael turned to face Jamie.

"The hit at the barn down the road has been nagging at me. It struck me a suspicious right from the start. I want to take another look around, and I'm betting we'll find that Jeep there."

Jamie nodded, it would make sense.



As soon as it was dark, they drove up to the nearby barn. Kitt was in silent mode, all lights off, only his scanner slowly tracking.

"Michael, I believe I have something." Kitt's voice sounded loud inside the cabin.

"What Pal?" Michael stopped the car at the end of the neighboring barn's driveway.

"First off, the Jeep is not here."

"But?" Michael prompted.

"But shortly after the conclusion of Jamie's incident this morning, a Jeremy Mathers reported his Jeep Cherokee stolen."

"Don't tell me," Michael's head dropped back against the seat rest. "He works here?"

"Yes."

"How long after we found Jamie?"

"Approximately half an hour the report was phoned in."

"Just enough time to ditch the vehicle and make his way back." Looking at Jamie, he sighed. "Okay, let's retrace Jamie's route and see if we can find the Jeep."

Driving back to Greenlands, they followed Jamie's directions of that morning's adventure. Ten minutes later, deep in the undergrowth, they found it. Michael switched all of Kitt's lights on before reaching for the door. He paused, turning to the woman who was also opening her door, her hand trembling.

"I know you don't want to do this, but it would be better if we could be sure."

"I'm fine, really. Seeing it just gave me the creeps." Meeting his eyes in the mostly dark interior. "I need to know as well." With a quick nod, they both climbed out. Walking around to the front, Jamie swallowed hard as Michael shined his flashlight on the front of the car. The front bumper was damaged and hair could still be seen clinging to the grill.

"Kitt can you get a picture of this?" Michael moved his comlink and his flashlight over the damaged section.

"Of course, license plate included."

"Thank you." Pulling out a card from his back pocket, Michael scrapped some of the hair and blood from the grill. "Let's make absolutely sure this is Britt's and not anything else." He glanced toward Jamie who was standing off to the side, hugging herself. In her position, he'd be freaked too. She almost died under these wheels. The thought brought a surge of rage within him. They would pay for what they'd done. Not only to Jamie, but to the others who had lost horses. "Can you get any prints Kitt?"

"Only exterior as of yet." Michael smiled, knowing what Kitt was asking for. Yanking his jacket over his hand, he opened the door, pointing his comlink inside, over the dash, the steering wheel and the door. "I've got it Michael." Kitt concluded.

Michael placed the card in Kitt's analyzer as soon as he was in the Trans Am. He couldn't chance screwing this up. He now had some hard evidence and was scared of losing it.

"It's definitely horse hair and blood. But to be sure I would need to compare it to Britt's."

"Alright. Have you...?"

"I've informed the authorities of the vehicles' whereabouts and it will be impounded as evidence against Jamie's attack." Kitt's voice sounded strained, like Michael should know that Kitt would do his job.

Smiling, Michael pressed the ignition switch on the steering column. "Okay, then we are on our way home."

Michael was surprised that Jamie remained awake throughout the drive back to LA. He was tired, but not comfortable enough to fall asleep. He was worried about her. He was worried about Britt, and he was unsure of Trish's next move. It was all falling together in his mind. And it all made sense too. Trish and Wilkins were in this together. Whether Trish knew about Jamie's relationship to Wilkins was another matter altogether.


*


Walking back into her house, a sense of relief washed over her. It was mostly over. Yes, she had a great deal left to organize in her life, but the terror was over with. Or so she hoped. Michael knew more than he was telling her. She was convinced of that. Whatever it was, she imagined the reason that he wasn't informing her was because he wasn't completely sure yet. He had trusted her with everything else, but he wasn't one for spreading misinformation. Michael dropped his bag beside the couch.

Seeing this, she broached the subject that had been on her mind since the morning he left. "Mi, would you...?" How the hell did she ask him this? She didn't want him to get the wrong idea, but she had become so used to him, missed him when he wasn't there.

Stepping up to her, relieved in a way he could not have imagined, he cupped her face between his hands. "Yes I will. I was hoping you'd ask." Smiling, he caressed her cheek with his thumb. "I've missed sleeping with you too. And I know this isn't about making love." He assured her. Kissing her quickly, he grabbed his bag. "First, I'm going to grab a shower."

"Do you need anything?" Michael paused at the door to the bedroom, hand on the sill as their eyes met.

After a moment, a slow, almost unsure smile touched his lips. "Na, I'm okay. Thanks." Tapping the frame, he ducked inside and a few seconds later she heard the bathroom door close.

Taking a deep breath, she made her way back out to the garage, opening the door to allow Kitt to drive inside.

"Is everything alright?" Kitt softly asked.

Leaning on the right front fender, Jamie tried to collect her thoughts. "I think so, Sweetheart. I'm just...," her head dropped forward.

"Just what?"

"Strung too tightly. Does that make sense?" The car was so warm under her hands, so soft, adding his voice, the way he spoke to her. To think that she had almost lost all this. Not just by the guy chasing her less than twenty-four hours ago, but by losing her place in Knight Industries and jumping into a new job.

"It makes a great deal of sense. This time it's our turn. Let Michael take care of you."

"It scares me Kitt."

"We will find the man who threatened you."

"That isn't what I meant. I mean, what I feel for you and Michael. Especially Michael."

"I should hope so." Kitt's light hearted comment didn't break the intimate moment, instead it added to it. "Why does it scare you? We would never hurt you."

"I know. Maybe it's that I've always been alone, the loser. I don't feel like one anymore." Jamie continued, hearing Kitt about to interrupt her with a reprimand. "I never thought that I'd meet a man like him, never mind have any sort of a relationship with him." Sliding onto the hood, "I guess I felt ordinary."

"What were your parents like?" Kitt startled her with his question, yet she had no reservations in continuing.

"I don't remember much. My mother had red hair, though more strawberry than mine. I remember my father saying that I was truly my mother's daughter. We had the same eyes, the same build, the same temper." Jamie's eyes had misted over, despite the fond expression on her face. "We all spent a great deal of time together. I remember loving them, and feeling loved."

"Wasn't your life with Wilton...?"

"Oh no, Wilton was wonderful." Jamie interjected. "I couldn't have asked for better than him and Devon. They helped me, taught me, loved me and comforted me when I was growing up."

"But it wasn't as fulfilling as your parents?"

"I don't think anyone could replace one's own folks." Jamie swallowed the lump in her throat. She had thought she was past emotional reactions to her parents like this. "When I broke out on my own, I knew Wilton was dying, he had told me and said that I should start planning for my future. God it hurt to know that I was going to lose him too. Devon was busy, so busy trying to put together Wilton's last wish, that he could just once see you and Michael together. He stood by the window, laughing so hard tears were streaming down his face when Michael drove you through that garage door. He was so happy to see Michael in your drivers' seat."

"You were with him?"

"Yes. I was there until Michael arrived. It was the first time I saw him, and then, only briefly. I remember thinking how young he looked, how haunted. I didn't see him again, or you until the night of the fundraiser."

"He was haunted. That is probably the best description I have ever heard for that time in his life."

"And you were there for him, as you are now."

"As we are for you."

One small tear escaped, running down her cheek. "I have no idea what I did to deserve the two of you, but thank you."

"There is no need. You have done more than you could imagine for Michael, and for me as well."

"Happily, Sweetheart."

"You need some rest."

"I think you're right."

With a quick caress of his fender, Jamie slid off the black skin and headed back inside. Closing the door behind her, she heard the water shut off. Her heart jumped. What was she doing? Taking a deep breath, shutting off the lights on her way across the living room, she realized she was doing what she wanted, what she needed to be doing, with a man that truly cared for her. Michael was already under the covers as she flipped the night table lamp on.

"Would you jump into my grave that fast?"

"At this point in time, if it meant getting a comfortable night's sleep; Hell yeah."

Chuckling Jamie made her way into the steamy bathroom. She should have known the easy rapore they had established would remain.

Returning a few minutes later, after cleaning up, she flipped off the light as she passed it, letting her eyes become accustomed to the moonlit room before climbing into bed. Turning to him was natural now. As was feeling him take her into his arms. Facing him, she had neglected to realize he was shirtless until he leaned over her, searching to claim her lips. Her response was immediate, her arms sliding around his shoulders, feeling his cool, still damp skin under her hands as they kissed. Jamie let herself go, fully trusting him.

Michael shifted over her, letting his weight settle against her. She was unlike anyone he had ever known. Even now, she trusted him, let him lead, accepted his need to be close to her. He deepened the kiss, her arms tightening around him, her body pressing against his. He was more than aware that she was only wearing a t shirt, that the thin cotton was the only thing separating their upper bodies. The knowledge affected him as much as the feel of her against him did. Her body was so small, so soft as she moved beneath him. Her hands beginning to wander over his shoulders, down his back, back up to his neck.

She could feel desire flowing through her veins. He shifted up over her, her shirt sliding up with him. As she arched, wanting to be closer, she felt the skin of his abdomen against hers. He moved again, his hands cradling her while his body pressed her into the bed, moaning slightly as their bare skin touched. She had never felt so lost in a man before. His kiss was demanding, yet like all the rest of his movements, tender, almost timid. His lips traveled over her jaw, down her throat to nuzzle into the base of her neck. Exhaling almost in wonder, she tipped her head back into his hand, giving him full access.

Dropping his cheek to her chest, keeping their exposed skin touching, he tried to breathe normally.

Lifting his head to meet her eyes, "Ja, we need to slow down. When we make love, I want it to be for the right reasons. Not because we're hurting, or scared."

Jamie nodded, unsure of her voice, treasuring the feel of him against her, memorizing the gruff note to his voice. Wrapping her arms around him, she held on tight as they both calmed down. He closed the distance between them once more, kissing her, pressing solidly against her before rolling onto his back, bringing her with him. Half lying across him, her shirt still riding up, she relaxed, so very comfortable against Michael's chest, his heartbeat in her ear, her shoulder tucked into his side. Oddly enough, she began to realize why Kitt constantly searched out Michael's heartbeat. It was a slow, steady, calming rhythm. One that she could listen to for hours. His right hand spanned her bare side, while his left caressed her arm as they drifted off for a few hours sleep.


*


Michael and Jamie arrived at the farm just as the vet was pulling in. Neither of them had slept overly much. Though comfortable and relaxed, they both knew they were on borrowed time.

Britt was still lying in her stall, calling out as Jamie walked into the barn. Standing up only when Jamie opened the stall door. Haltering the mare, Jamie lead her to the set of crossties and dropped the shank, ground tying the mare, stopping the vet as she reached for the crosstie.

"You can't tie her, she'll throw herself over backwards. She's perfectly safe."

"As long as Jamie's in the barn." Michael added.

The vet looked between them, noticing how the mare stood, calm and relaxed, before she proceeded.

The news was good, her legs would heal, with a great deal of effort and bandage changes. The mare would go through a great deal of pain, but she was still eating and acting her usual grumpy self. It was more than worth it to all concerned.

After unloading the car, helping Jamie organize her belongings and having a pleasant talk with Ryan as they helped with stalls and other odd chores, Michael paused at Kitt's door.

"Do you mind if I drop you off at home? I need to check in."

Jamie chuckled. "I'm surprised Bonnie didn't drag you in by the ear."

"I haven't done anything to Kitt for her to be concerned yet."

"Yet." Kitt piped up.

"Why does everyone think I'm out to destroy my car?"

"Because typically it appears as if you are *trying* to destroy *our* car." Michael dropped into the seat as Kitt started the engine.

"I love this car." Michael pouted.

Kitt grunted.


*

Jamie was surprised to hear the phone ring. Darting out from her bedroom, dropping the shirt she was in the process of hanging, she barely managed to grab the phone in time.

"Hello?"

"Jamie, I'm glad I caught you."

Standing up straighter, stiffening as she immediately recognized the voice. "Mr. Wilkins." Confusion and suspicion warred inside her. "Why, may I ask, are you calling me?"

"I have some good news for you. I would very much like it if you came to my estate so I can share it with you." There was a pause, and when he continued, his voice dropping an octave. "I would also like to apologize for my behavior."

Taking a deep breath, willing to give him one more chance, "alright. When?"

"How does lunch sound?"

Jamie checked her watch. "I'll need directions."

"Good, I'm glad to hear your say that. Do you have a pen handy?"


*

Wilkins sighed with relief as he watched the aqua sports car pull up the drive and park by the main entrance. Leaving his vigil at the upper window, he made his way downstairs to greet the young woman he had invited.

"How much has Michael told you?" Pleasant conversation had taken them no where. Jamie had not touched the food that had been carefully laid out for them. Her quiet suspicion was wearing on his nerves as well. It was time to get to the point of the matter.

"Told me about what?"

"I thought Michael knew."

"Knew what?" Jamie stared at the man across from her, a feeling of dread growing quickly.

"I was sure he had worked it out, and told you." Wilkins watched the girl sitting across from him closely. "I'm your father Jamie." Her face went deathly pale.

"I don't understand?" She stammered, shocked beyond words.

"I think you are old enough to understand." Wilkins paused, seeing her angered reaction. "Sorry, that came out wrong. Look, Jamie, this is just as difficult for me as it is for you." Running his hand through his dark hair, he chose his next words carefully. "Your mother and I had an affair. She ended it before she found out she was pregnant. We spoke about it, she had the tests done, needing to know who the father was. I'm still not sure how she felt when the tests proved that you were mine. She begged me to stay quiet, that she and Bruce would take care of you, give you a better life. I was heavily in debt at the time. I couldn't give either of you the life you deserved. So I dropped it."

"What about after the accident? You could have come forward then."

"Wilton knew. I don't know how, if Gail told him, or if he figured it out himself. The man was astounding for knowing what was going on around him. He told me, in no uncertain terms, that he was assuming the role of your guardian, and that there was nothing I could do about it. You have to understand, there was no fighting Wilton."

Jamie's head dropped. This was overwhelming her again. She understood about Wilton, she had seen him in action enough times to know. "Why didn't you say something?"

"I was so angry by the time Wilton died, I was afraid I'd say something wrong. Hell, I went about it all wrong anyway." He shifted, wanting to reach across the table, to touch her in kindness, not in anger. "I managed to convince the Board to drop your suspension." That caught her attention. "I'm really not a bad person. I had to go with the Board's decision, and I think you can do so much better than Michael Knight."

"This doesn't give you the right to suddenly play 'father'." Her voice had taken on a dark tone, but she hadn't jumped at him for his implications of Knight. Inwardly, Wilkins smiled.

"Can you accept that I'm trying to right a few wrongs here?" Jamie's head tipped in a semblance of agreement. "Good. I'll do what I can to help you."

"I don't need anything from you."

Wilkins smiled widely. "Just like your mother. Headstrong, independent, intelligent and beautiful."

Jamie couldn't believe this. Her whole life was turning upside down. How could Michael have kept this from her? Now she knew what he had been keeping from her. It hurt. More than what she had just learned from Wilkins. She had been willing to give him everything last night; while he was keeping something vitally important to himself. Rubbing her temples with her hands, confusion drowning her, she glanced around the porch. It was pleasant. The day was warm, the sun shone brightly, but the covered deck kept out all the rays while allowing the breeze to flow around them. Her glass of water was barely touched, the condensation running down the sides. She followed a drop make its way slowly down.

"Jamie?" Wilkins' voice held a tinge of concern.

"This is a great deal to absorb." He nodded his understanding. "I'm gonna go now." She stood, moving quickly from the table.

"Jamie wait." He reached, taking a hold of her wrist. She stiffened, even though his hold was loose. "You're expected back at the office Monday morning." She nodded, her eyes on his hand around her wrist. But she didn't pull away, didn't fight him. "I'd like to stay in contact, make an effort to make this work."

"I just... I need some time."

"Fair enough." He released her arm, watching her as she disappeared around front. A few moments later he heard her car start up and drive away. It had gone far better than he'd expected it to.


*


Michael drove up the long winding gravel drive of White's Equestrian. They where a much smaller operation than Greenlands. Focusing more on the jumping disciplines, it only had one full time employee beside the owner. Jeremy Mathers didn't look like much when Kitt ran a check on him. Twenty one, single, working here while conducting his college studies through correspondence. The kid seemed to have a natural affinity for any type of horse and other than a few speeding tickets, remained out of trouble. But somehow he had a new vehicle. His parents were not well off, though not lacking by any means either. They resided two States over in a small house, happily living out their retirement.

"Can I help you?" Michael spun as he climbed out of the car to face an elderly lady on horseback approaching him.

"Yeah, I'm looking for Jeremy Mathers."

"May I ask why?" Came the suspicious response.

Michael laid on the charm, smiling. "I just have a few questions for him about his vehicle before we can release it to him."

"Oh," the woman's face softened under her helmet. "You'll probably find him in the barn."

"Thank you." Michael tipped his head before making his way inside.

This barn was vastly different from Trish's. This barn ran alongside the arena, unlike Trish's that was 't' sectioned, this arena was smaller as well. The stalls ran down the left side only, not flush with the arena. It wasn't as cool and airy either.

The barn was immaculate, all the wood was stained and bars gleamed. The stalls were in the same condition, looking like no horse had ever kicked the walls, or chewed the wood. Michael wondered how they kept that barn in such good repair.

"Howdy." Michael glanced across at the tall man leaning out of what Michael assumed to be the feed room.

"You Jeremy Mathers?"

"Yip. What can I do for ya."

"I'd like to ask you a few questions about your stolen vehicle."

"Sure, just give me a sec. If Rhona sees a tub open, she'll hang me by the privates." Michael chuckled as the guy disappeared inside for another moment. "Kay, do you mind if we take a stroll outside, this'd be a good excuse for a smoke break?" Michael gestured for Mathers to lead the way. Out the far side of the barn, after lighting up, he faced Michael. "Ask away."

"When did you discover your car missing?"

"About twenty minutes before I called it in."

"Where do you usually park it?"

"In Rhona's garage. She's a bran'-spankin' new Jeep, I wanted to baby her."

"So that's why you didn't notice it missing?"

"Right. Rhona was about to go out and had opened the garage and I freaked."

"Why didn't you call it in right away?"

"Some of the guys like to play jokes on me. I asked them if they had moved her just to give me a scare." Michael smirked, not buying a word of it.

"You know the vehicle has been found?"

"Yip."

"And that is was used in an attempt to murder a young woman?"

"Uh, no... I didn't know that." Watching Mathers closely, Michael crossed his arms in front of his chest, making sure his comlink pointed straight at the other man. "Does this mean I can't have my car back?"

"It will probably be another day or two, but you'll have your car back."

Jeremy Mathers' shoulders dropped in relief. "Good. I worked hard for that baby."

Michael grunted disbelivingly. "I'll be going over the Jeep myself, I want to be sure nothing is missed."

"You do that." Michael knew he was dead on. Not only did this guy match his memory of the man in the far field, but the look of fear in his eyes spoke volumes.

"Thanks for your time."

"Not a problem, Mr. Knight." Michael had to consciously keep the shock from appearing outwardly. He had not introduced himself.


"That man was lying through his teeth." Kitt announced as Michael closed the door.

"Bingo." Michael reached for the ignition button. "By any chance..."

"There is a call going out right now from inside the barn. I'm tracing it as we speak."

Michael laughed at Kitt's prissy tone. "Thank you very much."

Turing onto the main road, Kitt spoke, "I have it Michael. The call went out to Greenlands, Rick Scheffild's personal line, to be specific."

"I had thought so."

"He never even asked if the young lady in question was alright." Kitt snapped disapprovingly.

"Why should he - when he already knew."

"I don't quite follow you."

"Try this theory; Trish sets the wheels in motion, but she can't be the one taking out horse - maybe she actually cares for the horses in some strange way. So she hires Rick to do the dirty work - only he doesn't have the balls..."

"Enter Jeremy Mathers into the picture."

"You got it. The guy I spoke to in there pretty much matched the height and build of the person we met in the lower field."

"And of the intruder with the shocking personality?"

Michael snorted, "yeah, him too."

"Do you think Trish knows about him?"

"If she does, she's turned a blind eye to it. I guess it doesn't matter as long as the attacks are remaining untraceable. Can you check into Mathers' banking records."

"Of course."

"If I'm right, his account balance will have increased dramatically of late."

"And we'll have some concrete evidence."

"Then I can lay the pressure on our new friend and see if he squeals."


*


Michael dozed through most of the drive back to LA. In their searches of Mather's bank accounts, Kitt discovered direct deposits of five thousand dollars the day after each attack. The last two dates coinciding with the death of Stranger and Jamie's run for her life. That section of the case was starting to fall into place.

Pulling into Jamie's familiar driveway, Michael relaxed mentally. Her car was parked beside them, Kitt's scans showing she was alone on the couch typing away on her laptop. He could see himself doing this more and more often. Possibly spending his free nights here as well. Bonnie may not approve, it meaning that Kitt would not be as easily accessible for her to work with; but for himself, his own stability, being here was a Godsend. Kitt's too if he could read his partner as well as he believed he could.

Stepping out of the car, with a quick pat to the roof, he headed up the short walkway, eager to tell Jamie of their findings.

Jamie opened the door to find Michael casually leaning on the door frame, a very bright smile on his face. One that disappeared very quickly as he took in her expression.
Stepping back, she gestured for him to come in.

Michael walked to the centre of the room, stopping in the area between the kitchen table and the rear of the couch. His heart was pounding, not sure of what had caused the angry and hurt look in her eyes.

Jamie closed the door slowly before moving passed him to perch on the back of her couch, hands braced at her sides.

Curiosity finally got the better of him. "What's wrong?"

Tipping her head sideways, she looked up at him. Anger, fear and uncertainty swirled in her head. "Why didn't you tell me?"

Michael swallowed hard, hoping she wasn't asking him about his suspicions of Wilkins. "Tell you what?" He felt his jaw clench, more in fear, as he watched her reaction.

Dropping her eyes for a moment, she shook her head, hoping that Wilkins was wrong, that maybe Michael didn't know. "About my father?"

The air rushed out of his lungs. "Because I wasn't sure." He tried to defend himself. But there was no defense from her disappointment. "How did you find out?" God that sounded wrong.

"He called today, not that long after you left. He invited me over for lunch. He said that he had some important information for me, and that he wanted to apologize." Jamie met his gaze again. "You could have said something." Her eyes had turned a darker shade of green.

"What if I had been wrong? I would have hurt you for nothing. I had to be sure, Ja." He reached for her, placing his hands on her shoulders. For the first time, she didn't respond to his touch.

"I don't know what to say to you, Michael. I... I need some time to sort this all out."

He nodded, a jerking movement. "Yeah."

"I want to believe that you weren't purposely keeping this from me." She couldn't drop it. It was nagging at her far too much.

"I had no intentions of hurting you. As soon as I knew for sure, I would have told you."

"And how were you going to prove it?"

"I have no idea."

"I would much rather have heard it from you." Her voice cracked. All she wanted was to snuggle into him, to let him comfort her, but she couldn't allow herself. This was something she needed to do on her own. It was her life, her two feet she had to stand on. Depending on people only seemed to get her hurt.

"I'm sorry it's turned out this way. Kitt is still looking into a few things, but I think we have a solid lead in the case."

"How are you going to pursue it? You're supposed to have dropped the case?"

"Maybe. But Devon is well aware of what I'm doing."

She smirked, eyes still focused on her feet. "I should have known."

"Ja, I found the guy who owns the Jeep, I spoke to him." Michael held onto her shoulders hoping he could convince her of how much he cared for her; his mind screaming at the injustice of this situation as he tried to rein in his fears, finally acknowledging the possibility of having lost everything they had built.

"Where did you find him?" Michael felt himself relax marginally.

"At the other farm. He owns the Jeep, and I think he was driving it."

"But I thought Rick was..."

"I know. But after I rattled him, he made a call. Kitt traced it to Greenlands, to Rick."

"This doesn't make any sense. Rick doesn't have motive?"

"Nor does he have the financing. Mather's received a couple of grand per 'accident', directly deposited into his account."

"Trish doesn't have that kind of money either. Even with the insurance money."

"Nor would she have collected it fast enough to make the payments."

"Do you have any ideas?"

Michael nodded hesitantly. "I do, but..."

"You're not close enough to the answers to voice them?" She understood why, his reasoning had everyone's best interests in mind, but it still hurt her that he couldn't confide in her about this. "You'll let me know...?"

"As soon as I have something concrete, you'll know." He sighed, she hadn't made a move towards him. He missed their closeness. That it could be torn from them this easily created a longing he wished he'd never experienced. He wanted to go back to the way it was before this case; to the wonder and happiness they had shared. "You'll let me know if anyone contacts you?" She nodded, understanding his request. If anyone from Greenlands contacted her, it was most likely for the wrong reasons. "I'm not off this case, Ja. Nor am I giving up on us." For the first time she made direct eye contact.

"I don't want you too. I'm just too... muddled right now. It's not fair to you."

"I don't care about 'fair'; I care about you. If you need time, I can understand that."


*

"Michael, what is it? You're heart rate is well above normal."

"I know." Michael drove away from the bungalow feeling despondent. "I should have told her about Wilkins." Kitt startled, not sure how Jamie could have found out.

"How..?"

"Wilkins told her." Michael pulled off to the side of the road, concealing them behind some brush. "I should have said something, told her of my suspicion."

"No you should have not. You made the right decision."

"Right." Michael quipped sarcastically. "Then how come she's so mad at me?" He dropped his head back against the headrest. "I could have prepared her for the possibility..."

"Michael." Kitt gently interrupted. "You could _not_ have prepared her for this. And what if we had been mistaken? Think of the damage we would have caused."

"God, Kitt. I can't imagine being without her. What if she doesn't forgive me?"

"Us, Michael, us. I care for her as much as you do. Please remember who sent you to her in the first place." That brought a small smile to his friends' face. "We need to give her some space. Then help her. I can't see her giving up on your relationship after what occurred between you last night."

Michael's eyes widened. "Were you spying?!" Kitt felt a surge of electricity run across his circuits. "Caught you have I?" Michael continued after a moment's silence. This time the smile was genuine.

"I can't stop the read out from your comlink, Michael." Came the guilty response.

"Next time I'll have to take it off."

"Like you'll remember."

"As long as there is a next time, Kitt."

"There will be."

"Have you found anything else on Wilkins?"

"No, why?"

"I just have a feeling."

"Concerning Wilkins' actions?"

"Yeah, and I don't like them."

"I'll continue digging."

"Thanks, Partner."


*


Devon frowned at the papers on his desk. It didn't follow any type of logic. Whatever Wilkins was up to, he had planned it very well.

"Devon?" Even with the tenuous tone Michael had used from across the room, Devon startled.

"Come in Michael." He hadn't expected to see the young man already. Looking at Michael as he leaned on the edge of the desk, Devon began to wonder what other secrets might be lurking. "What brings you in so soon?"

"I just came from Jamie's."

"And?" Devon prompted, praying his instincts were wrong.

Michael sighed, slouching, his arms crossed tightly in front of his body. "She spoke to Wilkins. He called her, invited her over, apologized for his actions, then told her the truth."

"My God, what is he playing at?"

Michael's head snapped around to face his mentor. "Why? What else could there be?"

"He's reinstated her."

Surprise, then outright confusion crossed Michael's face. "At the Foundation?" It was a stupid question, he knew, but in his dumbfounded state, he needed to be sure he heard correctly.

Handing Michael the papers, "as of two days ago."

"The day of the attack." Michael skimmed the top sheet before tossing it back onto the desk. "Is he trying to cover his tracks?"

"I'm not sure. There is something that is very much bothering me though." Devon stood, making his way over to the glass doors, his thinking position. "After Jamie was called in by the Board, Wilkins called her 'White Trash', making a derogatory implication of her status in life. Now, knowing of her parentage, that confuses me."

"I'll add another log to that fire; when Wilkins visited us at the farm, after Ja was suspended, he called her over to talk. They were half hidden behind the sanding, but I managed to get there in time to see him grab her, dragging her towards him, as if he was about to kiss her."

"Not fatherly actions in my eyes."

"Devon, neither one of us is stupid enough to not realize that it happens out there."

"That's not an area I considered. Especially not when it concerns someone I care very deeply for."

"Yeah." Michael's head dropped, his chin against his chest. "It doesn't make sense. Why is he suddenly changing tune? Playing father - after all these years? What's with the sexual advances? He obviously knew she's his daughter."

Devon watched the young man, fearing the emotional battle that was raging within him. He was too close to this case, but to as him back off was the wrong course of action. Devon also knew that if there was any hope of getting to the bottom of this, Michael would be the man to do it.

The double chirp of the comlink startled them both.

"Michael."

"Yeah, Kitt?" Michael shifted his left arm so they could both hear what Kitt had to say.

"I've been monitoring the police bands and something disturbing has caught my attention."

"What?" Devon's eyes raised to meet Michael's, both showing a tinge of dread.

"Jeremy Mathers was found in a ditch along road 30, twenty minutes from White's Equestrian. It appears he had been dead for more than twelve hours."