The Angel Series

by esotaria

Attempts to answer "What happened to Josh?" (Kara's birthday present gone horribly wrong. A sweet little short story turns into a convulted series.)

7. ...Chaos Ensues

...Chaos Ensues
by Katie
Disclaimer: The usual.

* * *

Something was ringing. Ringing was bad. Make ringing go away.

Kara flung her hand in the direction of the annoying sound, and was startled into complete consciousness by a loud crash and a throb of pain in her hand.

Eiouch! Grumbling and cradling her injured hand, Kara leaned over and picked up the phone.

Bout time, Katie snapped. Thought the house had been broken into or something. How big's your phone? It made one heck of a crash.

Katie, Kara said coldly, it is six o'clock in the morning. What are you doing on the phone? Her polite tone signified Kara's immense displeasure.

Oh, right, right. Yes, it is early, isn't it? Oh....but...ah, well, anyway, right, the point, the point. Katie was clearly nervous, though Kara could not guess as to the reason why. I did as you asked and looked into the matter. Yes, Big Brother is conducting an investigation on your company, or rather, your boss, and yes, Doors International has something to do with it. What, I do not know. Why, I do not know. In fact, I know very little. Pretty much nothing, you could say. In fact, you might as well call it nothing, because that's all it is. Nothing. Complete and utter nothing. Total, complete and utter-

Shut up! Kara snapped. Katie complied. Katie, you're babbling. And you only babble when you are nervous or have had a Coke. You haven't had a Coke in six years, so you must be nervous. Why?

I don't know, Katie answered. Probably just the time. Me being the nightowl I am, I looked up all this stuff in the middle of the night. Well, actually, I started right after hanging up, but I found most of what I was looking for round midnight. And I may love the night, but it does give me the heebie jeebies. And strange things have been happening. It's silly, really, and all easily explained, but I still get a bad feeling about this. By the pricking in my thumbs, something wicked this way comes' and all that jazz.

Have you been listening to one of Douglas Adams' books on tape?

Yes, The Long Dark Tea Time of the Soul.

Thought so. So did you find out anything other than confirmation of my suspicions?

We-ell, Katie drawled, this isn't for sure, but it's part of the reason I'm so edgy and nervous. Sandoval's taken an interest in this case.

Why?

Because Renee's involved. And where Renee's involved, Liam's involved. And where Liam's involved, Sandoval is sure to have his nose stuck inquisitively in, hoping it's the shred of evidence he needs to prove Liam's in the Resistance and kick his butt to Kingdom Come.

Kara felt oddly calm about all this. She knew she should be pacing, she should be screaming, she should be pulling out her hair and sobbing OH MY GOD, PLEASE DON'T LET HIM FIND ME! She did none of those things. She just sat on the bed, holding the phone. She felt like a character in one of Douglas Adams' books, who acted like everything was completely normal in the midst of utter chaos. She vaguely wondered if perhaps Mr. Adams was scripting her life, and this wasn't really her life at all, then shoved the notion aside. She was spending too much time around Katie. Her thoughts were getting more random by the day.

I'm going to help them, Kara said abruptly.

What?

I'm going to go to the Fibbies and help them.

Why?

For the same reason you wanted me to take this bloody job.

Did you not hear the words Sandoval', interested', and this case' put together in the same sentence?

I heard them, and I couldn't care less. If I let the Fibs go about the investigation without inside help, they'll get the evidence and shut down the company. With inside help, however, they just might be persuaded to merely arrest the boss and leave the company alone.

And if Sandoval finds you?

Put on my brightest smile and try to out-act Emma Thompson.

I see. Lovely plan. Well, I see you've got the situation covered. I'll just hang up and start assembling the forces to break you out of the Mothership again. Be Prepared', as the Boy Scouts would say. Katie's voice started to speed up, and took on that odd part British, part Italian, and part Australian accent that she unconsciously adopted while in the throw of great emotion. It was a very odd accent, and it never failed to disconcert those who heard it.

Yes, you can never be too prepared, Kara agreed. Goodbye.

Cheerio.

Kara rolled her eyes as she hung up the phone. Typical Katie. Rolling over, she turned to find Joshua still asleep. Grinning, she decided to get up and make him breakfast in bed. Let the man sleep in a little. He worked too hard, anyway. The news that their new lives were in serious jeopardy could wait for an hour or two.

* * *

WHAT?!?

Kara took a quiet sip of her coffee before replying.

Renee is involved in an investigation into my company, she replied. And I'm going to assist the investigation so that they don't close down the company.

No. Absolutely not. I will chain you to the bed before I let you go out and call Sandoval's attention to us!

Who says Sandoval's attention will be on us?

Joshua jumped up angrily.

Sandoval keeps an eagle eye on Renee, he hissed, hoping to get the evidence he needs to have her arrested for Resistance activity. So naturally his attention will be on this investigation, and he'll see you, and he'll recognize you, and we'll have Volunteers at our door before you had time to even say Oh sh*t'.

Joshua, calm down. Kara snapped. You're over-reacting. Remember, my eyes, hair, and skin tone have been changed. Street has made me a new identity. I may look like Volunteer Kara Burns, but to him it will only be a vague resemblance. He never knew me by name when I worked for him, and I doubt he's stared at my picture enough to recognize me should he see me now. I have to do this, Josh, and I don't care what you say.

This is absurd, Joshua grumbled. Why can't someone else do it?

Because the others don't know Katie, and Katie knows the agent in charge.

I'm going to kill her.

Joshua, if you don't shut up and deal with this, I'll chain you to the bed.

Joshua glared at his wife.

You're an idiot, he snapped.

And you married me anyway, Kara retorted smoothly. Now finish your breakfast. I'm calling Katie to give the SAC a little warning of my coming and a recommendation, then I'm heading out. You have about a half-hour to get yourself out of the doghouse. She stood, and headed back into the bedroom to get dressed.

Joshua sighed, and stared moodily into his coffee. He knew he should apologize, or else he'd find himself sleeping on the couch tonight, but he couldn't. What the hell was she thinking, throwing herself at Sandoval? Because that was basically what she was doing.

Damn woman and her damn desire to play super hero, he thought furiously.

Kara walked out of the bedroom, dressed in a very attractive long black skirt and white shirt. She looked at him icily, and, practically lifting her nose up at him as she passed, walked out of the house. Joshua returned his gaze to his now cold coffee.

Yep, he was definitely on the couch tonight.

* * *

Kara walked nervously into to the Cincinnati police station, which was currently hosting the agents looking into her company, or so Katie told her. She tried to smile at the receptionist and thought she failed miserably. Luckily, the receptionist didn't seem to notice.

Can I help you? she asked.

Yes, Kara replied. I'm looking for Agent Fitzwilliam.

Mrs. Jinn, I presume? a man asked, looking up from a file he was reading. Kara smiled at him, and held out her hand.

That would be me, she said. And you are Agent Fitzwilliam, I presume?

Agent Fitzwilliam laughed.

You presume correctly, he said. Richard Fitzwilliam, at your service.

Kara studied him. He wasn't handsome per se, but something about his friendly manner made one look twice. He looked to be in his early thirties, and had the bearing of a military man.

I was a Colonel, Agent Fitzwilliam said, correctly interpreting Kara's look. Kara blushed, and he laughed. Don't worry, ma'am, you're not the first, and you won't be the last. I seem to have military man' stamped on my forehead. Kara laughed, and immediately relaxed. So, if you'll follow me, we can talk in private about what you can do for me, and what I can do for you.

He led her to a small office, and closed the door behind her.

Please, have a seat, he said, gesturing to a chair. Kara complied. Agent Fitzwilliam sat behind the desk. So, this morning I get a call from my good friend Katie at a ridiculously early hour for her. She tells me that a beautiful young woman is going to come to my office, but not to get my hopes up, because she was married. She also told me that this young woman would be able to help me, if I in turn helped her. Naturally this intrigued me, but Katie, being the sadist that she is, refused to give me anymore information, and hung up abruptly. Now that you're here, my curiosity can finally be sated, if you care to do so.

Kara smiled.

I would be happy to ease your suffering, she said. You are currently investigating Rosings Web Designs, correct? Agent Fitzwilliam nodded. I am employed there. My first day on the job, Mr. Collins, the owner, manager, and general head honcho of the place, started putting the moves on me', for lack of better expression. When I called Katie to yell at her for giving me such a crummy job, she told me of Collins' past history. I was to make sure the company wasn't shut down, so the others who worked there could keep their jobs. Being a super hero at heart, I agreed to martyr myself and stay on the job. And when I heard about this investigation, I realized I was in the unique position to assist your investigation. I have access to financial records, and other pertinent information.

And what do you want in return for this service? Agent Fitzwilliam asked.

Collins uses the company as a front for his activities, Kara said, so it appears as if the entire company is corrupt, instead of just him. I will do everything I can to assist the investigation, if you forgo closing down the company, and content yourselves with arresting Collins.

Agent Fitzwilliam nodded.

Sounds reasonable, he said. I think your request can easily be fulfilled. We have another civilian assistant in our investigation, Ms. Renee Palmer, from Doors International. We figured that Collins' love for beautiful women and huge ego would prevent him from being suspicious of Ms. Palmer.

You figured rightly, Kara said.

That's nice to know. Collins is such an idiot, it's really embarrassing that he's avoided jail for so long. Anyway, Ms. Palmer, Agent Lucas, and myself will come to your house tomorrow, if that's convenient. What time would be best?

My husband is a professor at the local law school, Kara said. He has three classes in a row beginning at two. So two fifteen?

Sounds good, Agent Fitzwilliam said, then stood. Kara stood as well, and they shook hands. It was nice to meet you, Mrs. Jinn.

You as well, Agent Fitzwilliam.

Kara smiled at the agent, and turned around and walked out the door. She felt the tension leave her shoulders as the first step was completed. Now she just had to finish the investigation without getting arrested.

* * *

Renee's body collapsed like a rag doll into a chair the moment she got into her hotel room. She was beginning to seriously regret letting Richard talk her into assisting his case. She should have said a firm NO' the moment he told her Collins was a womanizer-even if Richard was an old flame who had put his life on the line for her countless times. She would do anything for him in return, even die for him if he asked it of her.

However, asking her to deal with Collins was just too much.

She sighed, and managed to gather enough energy to reach into her purse and pull out her global. She needed to see what Sandoval was up to, as he'd taken an almost obsessive interest in her affairs ever since Joshua's escape, and if she didn't check in soon, Worrywart Liam was going to bite her head off. He had been oddly protective of late, ever since Jack and then the Dreamstalker, and if it hadn't been so damn annoying, she might have considered it sweet.

Hey Renee! Liam's voice said as his face appeared on the small screen.

Hey Liam, she replied. How's ole Sandy doing?

Eagle eye on you, as always, Liam answered. How's the case?

Renee sighed.

Hell, she said candidly. I'd gladly give my life for Richard, but asking me to deal with Collins is asking much too much.

That bad, huh?

Worse. The man sexually harasses every one of his female employees, even the married ones! And to top it all off, the a-hole is married himself! Or so the receptionist tells me.

You sure you can trust her?

Well, judging by the way he stared at my breasts instead of my eyes throughout our entire meeting, I'd say it sounds in character. And the jerk's been calling me all day to meet for dinner to go over business details'. Ugh. He must've gone to school to learn so many bad pick up lines. I think the only one he didn't use was hey baby, what's your sign?'

You have my sympathy.

I'd prefer your gun, so I can go and blast his head off.

Don't you have your own?

With Sandoval keeping such a close eye on me, I've actually had to use my DI bodyguards to protect myself instead of carrying a gun in my purse. All I have is pepper spray.

Ah, yes, pepper spray, every woman's best friend.

Yep. I've used it before. Very useful stuff. I'd take it over a diamond any day.

So you'd actually prefer a bottle of pepper spray to an engagement ring? Interesting.

Never said that, and who says I'm getting engaged?

Rhetorical question, Renee.

Why do people ask rhetorical questions?

To force other people to think.

After all I've been through, you want me to think? Meanie.

I know, I'm cruel. And why'd you use a diamond as an example? Why not a dog? They are another source of protection.

A dog is man's best friend, idiot. A diamond is supposedly a woman's best friend.

Oh.

The good natured argument had trickled to a stop, and they sat in silence for a few moments.

So, Renee said finally, we have yet another civilian assistant on the team. Richard, Charlotte, and I are going over to her house tomorrow to plan our attack.

Really? Liam asked. Who?

A Kathryn Jinn. She works for Collins, poor woman, and she's going to be our inside source. Anything we can't get from Collins, we get from her. She hesitated, then continued speaking. She bears an absolutely eerie resemblance to Kara.

D'you think it could be her?

Renee shrugged.

I don't know, she said. She has different color eyes, skin tone, and hair, but her facial structure looks the same. I don't know. Maybe she just has that' type of face.

Maybe, Liam said. I'd keep an eye on her, though. You know how Sandoval's keeping an eagle eye on you? Well, I think he's going to try to insert himself into the investigation. At first I thought he was going to send an agent to be his eyes and ears, but now that you've mentioned the presence of somebody new, this Kathryn might be his girl.

Renee shook her head.

I don't think so, she said. And besides, even if Sandoval is overtly curious, why should we worry? There's nothing Resistance in this. I have nothing to hide.

I have a feeling about this, Renee, Liam said. And it says that this case is a lot more than it appears to be. Just keep an eye on her.

I will, Renee promised.

The two friends said their good nights, and closed their globals.

* * *

I know it's cliched, but you sure this is the right place?

Agent Charlotte Lucas grinned at her partner, then checked the paper in her hand.

Yep, this is it, she replied.

The occupants of the car watched as a middle-aged brunette peered through one of the house's windows, then immediately scurried away.

Looks like we triggered the alarm, Renee said dryly. They got out of the car, and walked to the front door. Agent Fitzwilliam was the one to knock.

Kara opened it almost immediately.

Hey! she said. C'mon in. Mrs. Nolan just called to ask me who I had over, so hold on a sec while I hang up. She hurried away, and the three guests could hear her say her goodbyes to Mrs. Nolan.

Kara walked back into the room.

Sorry about that, she said. My next door neighbor and her daughter live alone, and consequently have a tendency to be busybodies. Please, have a seat. Would you like something to drink?

They all declined, and Kara herself sat at the table.

So, she said, seeing as I'm the most talkative person here at the moment, what's the plan?

That's what we're here to find out, Fitzwilliam replied. Now that we've got everybody, we need to figure out what to do. Any ideas?

Before we get into ideas, Charlotte interrupted, perhaps Mrs. Jinn should be told Mr. Collins' past offenses.

That would be useful, Kara said, and please, it's Kara.

Charlotte nodded.

Okay, Collins' previous offenses. Would you like the long list or the abbreviated version? His tone was jesting, but Kara had a feeling his words were not far from the truth.

Abbreviated, please, she replied.

Well, he hasn't done anything monstrous and disgusting, like murder or rape. Not even aggravated assault. What he has done is petty thievery, extortion, money laundering, tax evasion, peeping, and stalking.

What's peeping? Kara asked, her brows furrowed with perplexion.

The act of being a Peeping Tom, Fitzwilliam answered.

And what was the stalking thing about?

Well, it involved a woman named Elizabeth Bennet. Because her grandfather was an old fuddy duddy, and she had no brothers, the home her family lived in was entailed to Collins, his godson. In a fit of Christian charity (and carnal lust, probably), Collins goes to visit the family, and marry one of the daughters, so to keep the estate in the family. The eldest was already engaged, so he started paying court to the second, Elizabeth. Her mother encouraged it, but Elizabeth said no when he proposed. Collins was too dumb to take no for an answer, and so stalked her, convinced that she was merely trying to increase his love by suspense. She finally had to get a restraining order put on him and get married to another man before he finally realized she didn't want him.

Good grief!

Indeed.

So what are you investigating him for now?

Running up false expenses, Fitzwilliam replied. I forget the official name.

It sounds simple to me, Renee said, speaking for the first time. They all turned to look at her. Doors'll keep an account of expenses incurred, and Kara will get a copy of Collins' personal accounts. She went into greater detail, and Fitzwilliam nodded.

Sounds good, he said. Char?

Sounds good to me too, she said.

* * *

Joshua whistled as he unlocked his front door, struggling to maintain a hold on the huge bouquet of roses in his arms. He had guessed correctly the night before, and had ended up sleeping on the couch. It was an experience he did not mean to repeat, and he resolved to make up at all costs. Hence the roses.

He stopped whistling when he walked inside, wanting to surprise his wife. He snuck into the kitchen, and stopped abruptly. The roses fell from his suddenly nerveless arms, and all he could do was stare at the scene before him.
* * *
Kara felt the presence of somebody behind her. The others had not yet noticed. She turned around to see who it was.

Joshua! she gasped, startled.

All conversation stopped at her exclamation. Kara hurried to smooth over the scene.

Guys, this is my husband, Joshua Jinn. Josh, this is Renee Palmer, and Agents Richard Fitzwilliam and Charlotte Lucas.

Pleasure to meet you, Fitzwilliam said with a smile, extending his hand. Joshua made no move to reciprocate. His eyes were locked on Renee, and his face had gone frighteningly pale.

Kara could see the pieces slowly falling together in Renee's eyes, and panicked.

Josh, dear, you look terrible! she said in a rush, jumping to her feet and grabbing his arm. Let's get you to bed. She turned to her guests. Do you mind letting yourselves out?

No, of course not, Charlotte said compassionately as she stood. Kara stood holding Joshua's arm as the others left. When she heard the front door close, she turned to her husband.

What were you doing home? she asked. Your classes don't end until four.

My...my middle class was canceled, Joshua replied softly. I was going to bring you...those. He gestured to the fallen roses. His mind, however, was clearly somewhere else. His body began to tremble, and Kara cursed silently as she quickly led him to the bed. He immediately collapsed. His skin felt clammy, and though Kara knew next to nothing about medicine, she had watched enough t.v. to guess that he was suffering from shock. She sighed and shook her head. She then covered her husband with covers, made sure he had enough pillows, and then went to call Katie.

* * *

Sandoval paced the length of his office.

To spy, or not to spy?
His sources told him that the case had no Resistance ties, and that Renee Palmer was involved merely at the request of an old friend. It was plausible. Sandoval didn't buy it for a second. His instincts, finely honed from years as Companion Protector and FBI agent, told him that there was something important about this case.
That decided it. He'd send somebody in.

* * *

Kara sat beside Joshua, a book lying forgotten on her lap. He had yet to wake up, and she had no idea whether to let him sleep, or force him to awake.

She had called Katie earlier in the evening, and the other girl managed to soothe her fears about Renee.

Kara, the woman deals with espionage every day, she had said. Do you really think she's going to walk up to Sandoval and say, Hey, did you know Kathryn Burns is now Mrs. Kara Jinn?'

Kara had to acknowledge the truth of that. Renee knew what they were running from-she wouldn't give them away.

The phone rang, forcing Kara to abandon her train of thought. She picked up the receiver with a small sigh.

Hello? she said.

There've been some developments, Katie said.

On what? Kara asked.

The case, of course! Katie snapped, and Kara rolled her eyes.

What kind of developments? she asked.

You're getting an extra agent.

A mole?

I don't know. Name's Franklin Harris, fresh out of Quantico. Ten years at the Baltimore PD, three on the Homicide division. Graduated with decent grades-not failing, but not honors. I've found nothing suspicious about him-no obvious connection with Sandoval, but I'm still new to all this stuff, and Sandoval IS an evil genius, so I wouldn't rule it out. He'll be with y'all in about three days.

Did you just say y'all?

Hey, I got the info from a homesick hillbilly. Had to reach deep down into my Kentucky roots to get to him.

You're odd, Katie.

Why bless yer heart, chile!

Kara rolled her eyes again at Katie's atrocious southern belle accent.

Thanks for calling, she said, changing the topic.

No problem. I've always loved a good piece of espionage.

Doesn't seem very fun to me.

Ah, that's because you're the king piece. We pawns get all the fun, without the attention.

Only if you're a bad chess player.

How did you guess I suck at the game?

Kara had to laugh.

I better go, before I run up my phone bill.

True. That's the one thing globals have over telephones. Anyhow, toidles.

See ya.

Kara shook her head as she hung up the phone. She felt a migraine building up, and she suddenly felt like strangling Sandoval. All she wanted was a normal life, dammit! She just wanted a good job, a nice house, and Joshua. Was that too much to ask?

* * *

Renee stalked down the hospital hall, ignoring people as they dove out of her way. She stormed into one of the rooms, nearly knocking down a nurse in her fury.

The doctor tried to stand in her way.

Ma'am, please!

She ignored him, and marched up to the bed.

Just what the hell are you trying to do? she snapped.

The occupant, Sean O'Connel, grinned ruefully.

Sorry Ray, the bodyguard said. It just happened.

How? she asked.

I tripped during my morning jog, Sean explained. The roads here can be pretty crummy, and there was this rock jutting out of the pavement that I didn't see.

Broke his leg, the doctor inserted.

So I took the liberty of calling my backup. Sean used his head to indicate the before unnoticed third person in the room. Ray, this is Manny Johnson, my temporary replacement. Manny, this is Renee Palmer, your new goddess.

Manny stepped forward and grinned.

Pleased to meet you, he said. I've been looking to change religions.

Renee gave him a mechanical smile, her mind busy assessing her new body guard.

He was easy on the eyes, at least. Tall, with dark hair and magnetic green eyes. He looked well built, and seemed strong enough, though Renee knew appearances could be deceiving. He also seemed friendly, so he would do until Sean was better. That decided, Renee turned back to her injured bodyguard and friend.

How big was this rock you tripped on? she asked.

Sean shrugged.

Big enough to trip on, he answered with a smile.

Renee grinned at him, her blue eyes suddenly mischievous.

Oh really, she drawled. I bet you broke your leg on purpose, just to get out of this town without losing pay.

Hey, the only reason we're having a sane conversation here is because I'm doped up! Otherwise I'd be screaming in agony. Sean put on a tone of mock hurt.

This coming from the man who rang through every single verse of 99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall and the Loveboat theme song with a bullet in the shoulder.

Sean raised his hands in the air, surrendering.

I admit it! he cried dramatically. You've found me out. I hate this town, I hate it! But my creditors are at my door! They broke down my door! They're eating me out of house and home! I need the cash!

Renee rolled her eyes, smiling.

Thank God you never got it into your head to become an actor, Sean, she said.

Sean stuck out his tongue, and Renee responded in kind. She belatedly remembered Manny, and turned to the man.

Come with me, she said. I'll take you back to the hotel, give you the run down, and show you to your room.

Manny smiled.

Thanks, that'd be great.

They said their goodbyes to Sean, and left the room.

* * *

Kara grimaced as she glanced into Mr. Collins' office. Poor Renee, she thought grimly. The CEO was in the office trying to negotiate with Collins. He was stalling, and while that was a good thing for the investigation (as he billed by the hour), a second spent in Mr. Collins' leering company was a second too long.

Resolutely Kara returned her attention to the computer screen before her. Mr. Collins may have been a leering, over-testosteroned fool, but he had the unexpected sense to password protect his personal accounts. This made life much harder for her. Kara was not a hacker, had no friends who were hackers, and she somehow doubted the ___ for Dummies company published a book called Hacking for Dummies'. She had tried his name, his wife's name, his wife's maiden name, and his birthday, with no success. Her sole comfort was in the wry observation that he was paying her by the hour to turn him in to the Feds.

She typed in Rosings. Nope.

Women? Nope.

Breasts? Nope.

Sex? Nope.

Money? Nope.

LadyCather-It wasn't until she had hit enter that Kara realized that the last three letters were cut off. Sighing, she waited for the expected Password Incorrect', mentally searching for another option. Because of this, it was some moments before she realized she was in.

I should've known, she thought. Of course he would make the founder of Rosings his password. He's made her his religion in everything but name.

She started browsing through the accounts, but to her dismay found them indecipherable. She'd have to show them to Richard and Charlotte. Kara made a copy of the accounts onto a disk, and stuck it in her pocket. She then quit the program, and went back to work. When Renee walked out of Collins' office, Kara gave her a discreet thumbs up and a grin, and the other woman smiled with relief.

They were finally getting somewhere.

* * *

As Kara got closer to home, a sense of dread began to build. Joshua had woken up about a half hour after Katie's call, but he hadn't said a word. He just sat by the bedroom window, staring out into space, lost in thought. Kara had known that seeing Renee would be painful for her husband, but she never imagined this severe a reaction.

The woman's associated with some of his most painful memories, Kara, she reminded herself. Of course he's going to be shocked.

She shook her head as she opened her front door.

This is beyond shocked.
Inside, Joshua still hadn't stirred. Kara walked over to him, and tried once again to get his attention.
Hey honey, she said, leaning over to kiss his cheek. No response. I've hacked my way into Collins' personal accounts. Nothing. I'm taking them over to Richard, Charlotte, and Renee to decipher. A flicker of emotion flashed through Joshua's eyes, but that was all. Kara sighed. Well, I have to go. She kissed Joshua once again, and sadly prepared to leave.

* * *

The man who answered Richard's door was unfamiliar to Kara. He must have seen the confusion in her eyes, because he said gruffy, I'm Agent Franklin Harris. C'min.

He stepped aside, and Kara eyed him as she entered. Somebody's got an attitude problem, she groused. Probably resents having to work with a civilian.

Harris walked two steps ahead of her as they walked towards the kitchen, acting as if she didn't exist. Kara found his manners insufferable. A young man standing outside the kitchen door, presumably one of Renee's body guards, gave Kara sympathetic smile as she passed.

They joined Renee, Richard, and Charlotte at the table.

Renee tells me you have his personal accounts, is that right? Richard asked.

Kara nodded.

Yep, she said, and reached into her pocket and pulled out the disk. She handed it to Richard. On there is also the company account. I tried to read it, but it's all Greek to me.

You got a computer? Harris asked Richard, interrupting Kara. Richard nodded, and pointed to the other room. Harris held out his hand. I'll take a look at it. It was not a suggestion. Richard looked miffed, but duly handed it over. Without another word Harris rose and headed into the other room.

Who wants to bet he failed kindergarten? Richard asked softly. His eyes twinkled with mischief.

Or skipped it entirely. Kara could not resist that little addition.

You guys! Charlotte said scoldingly, but she offered no further admonishment. Harris' lack of manners had grated on her as well.

Who's the guy outside the door? Kara asked Renee. I've never seen him before.

Sean tripped over a rock and broke his leg, Renee explained. He's Manny Johnson, Sean's replacement.

Kara frowned.

I hope Sean'll be okay, she said.

Don't worry about him, Renee replied. Sean's a tough old bird, and the doctor said it was a clean break. He'll be up and at em in no time.

They spent another ten minutes in inconsequential chatter before Harris walked back into the room. He tossed the disk onto the table.

He ripped you off alright, he said. Not only do his accounts show a substantial and unaccountable raise in income, but I dialed up some of the services he used your money on, Ms. Palmer. They told me that they charged him less than he said they did.

Well, Richard said, clapping his hands together, looks like we've got our evidence. He smiled, looking like the cat who ate the canary.

But what if he pleads manipulation? Kara asked. The faces around her were uncomprehending. Oh, I don't know the legal term, but you know what I mean. What if he says that you guys set him up for it, or something like that. I don't know; Joshua's the lawyer, not me.

Harris nodded slowly.

You have a point, he said, but what we've done is standard Bureau procedure. The jury'd never go for it.

You don't know Lady Catherine, Kara replied. She refuses to believe anyone who works for her could be a thief, and she's got a lot of money to get people to tell the truth'. She's more than a force to be reckoned with.

Harris turned to Richard, who grimaced. That was answer enough.

Do you have any other current clients that Collins is dealing with? Charlotte asked.

Yeah, two, Kara said. Want me to make copies of their stuff?

Yeah, Richard said. We'll need them for unbiased evidence. He grinned. Or whatever the legal term is. I'm not a lawyer either.

As Kara and Renee said their goodbyes, Harris headed straight towards the bedroom phone. Kara's eyes narrowed as she observed this.

What is that man up to?

* * *

Their kitchen was bright and sunny. He and Kara were talking. Her laughter sounded like music in his ears. He felt as though he could stare at her forever.

The front door burst open, crashing like thunder. The room was suddenly filled with Volunteers, weapons out and ready to shoot. From behind them came Agent Ronald Sandoval.

The agent smiled at them, though one could hardly recognize it as a smile, it was so full of malice. When he spoke, his voice was chilling and lyrical, as one of a Shakespearean villain.

Sometimes failure is just failure, not injustice.

Kara's beautiful blue eyes were wide with fear. They both knew the fate of traitors to the Taelons. Death, usually in the most painful manner possible.

Renee was there. Her face was sad, regretful.

You should've kept your cool, Josh, she said woefully. Joshua Jinn had no reason to fear me. You alerted everyone.

I couldn't help it! Joshua cried. I didn't mean to!

But you did it.

What else can I say? I'm sorry!

Sorry isn't going to cut it, Joshua. Joshua's father's voice was harder than stone. YOU. FAILED.

Joshua whirled around.

Dad? he breathed.

Don't Dad' me, Jonathan snapped. You gave yourself away. You didn't protect Kara. You're a failure!

I am not! Joshua shouted.

Of course you are, Jonathan replied. You've been one all your life. Couldn't cut it in the business world, couldn't keep a girlfriend, couldn't take care of your mother, and then you couldn't even take care of your own free will! I died because you became a Taelon pawn. This is just the icing on the cake.

You would've lost your will too, Dad! Joshua spat, but his conviction was weakening. It wasn't my fault!

Excuses, excuses. Jonathan's voice was disdainful. That's all you're really good at, Joshua, making excuses. Sometimes failure is just failure, not injustice.

You killed her, Josh, Renee said quietly, and Joshua turned to find Kara lying in a puddle of blood. You failed her.

I did nothing!

Sometimes failure is just failure, not injustice.

Those words rang in his head, a mantra, a drum, a part of his very soul.

I am a failure.

* * *

Sandoval was restless. He paced back and forth in his office, an unknown something nagging at him incessantly. All thoughts of paperwork were forgotten-in this state, he was lucky he could coherently think. His computer beeped, and Sandoval pounced on the machine, knowing instinctively that it was important.

It was a message from his mole. Sandoval had strictly forbidden communication by computer, so he could only assume that the man had used a telephone to relay the message.

Hey-o, bossman! it read. Greetings from Hicktown, USA. No signs of Resistance activity. Case seems politically low-key. Palmer isn't the only civilian assistant-Mrs. Kara Jinn works at the company and is ratting on her boss. I'll keep you abreast. ~Elom

Kara Jinn.... Sanodval repeated the name to himself. Could she be the missing Kara Burns? And she was married....to Joshua Doors, perhaps? It was an intriguing possibility, but he would have to wait for confirmation before acting upon it.

* * *

Kara was going to kill something.

If I kill Collins, she wondered to herself, would I be charged with obstruction of justice, murder, or be made a hero?

She had gone into work that day firmly intending to get those copies and get this case done with. The few days that had passed felt like an eternity. She had barely seen Joshua all week, and they hadn't talked at all since his collapse.

He hadn't gone to work. When his employer called to find out why, Kara had to tell the man he was sick. Which he was. He barely ate, spent most of his time sleeping, and any spare time was used pacing around in their bedroom. The haunted look in his pseudo green eyes signaled a return of the nightmares. Sandoval's torture was finally catching up with him. Kara just wanted to get the case closed and get back to her husband.

And that d*mn Collins wouldn't leave her alone!

He kept leaning over her shoulder as she worked, oozing compliments that were about as complementary as the stink of his breath. She couldn't very well access the necessary files with him hanging around-as his personal cases, Kara had neither a right nor a reason. She pasted another smile on her face and screamed silently in frustration.

I wonder if I could plead manslaughter...

Kara's gaze wandered discreetly around the room as Collins prattled nonsensically; one of her fellow employees gave her a sympathetic smile. A light bulb went off in Kara's head, and she interrupted Collins mid-ramble.

That was absolutely riveting, sir, she said, too excited about her idea to choke on the words, but I just realized I need to tell Ms. D'Adamo something. Just let me pop over there and tell her, and then perhaps you continue in further detail...in private. On that Kara did choke, but Collins was too busy trying to control the lower parts of his anatomy to notice. Kara smiled, jumped up, and rushed over to Liz D'Adamo.

Hey Kara, Liz said softly.

Hey Liz, Kara replied. I need a favor.

Sure, what?

It's something you can't ask me about, and can't tell anyone else about.

Liz's brow furrowed with puzzlement, but she still agreed.

Sure.

I need you to make copies of the Lewis and the Fossett files.

Collins' personal cases?

Kara nodded, and her eyes reminded Liz of her promise.

Sure, she said, and Kara smiled her thanks.

I adore you, she said to Liz, and reluctantly returned to Collins.

Liz grimaced with sympathy for her friend, and went to work on copying those files. She didn't understand why Kara wanted them, but she had a feeling it was for the good of all of them. She snickered at how trite the thought sounded.

On the other side of the room, Kara gagged at how trite Collins' come-ons were. They worsen by the day, she mentally grumbled. She tuned out Collins' voice, and pasted on a look of idiotic interest. That should keep him occupied, she thought with grim amusement.

After twenty minutes spent in such a fashion, Kara didn't register the knock on the door. It wasn't until she noticed that Collins had stood up, looking miffed, that she realized she was free. She too stood, and turned to face her savior. Liz gave her a small, sympathetic grin.

Excuse me, sir, she said, but I need to deprive Mrs. Jinn of your most enlightening company. In another company I would fear reprimand for interrupting your most important meeting, but you are so superior to other bosses, so much more greatly wise and benign, that I know I shall be forgiven, and humbly give thanks.

Collins preened, immediately mollified.

Of course, he simpered. Kara, it was a pleasure.

Indeed it was. Kara had to remind herself to fake sincerity, she was so desperate to get out. She quickly followed Liz out of the room, and after the door closed the two had to choke back laughter.

Have you been taken lessons or something? Kara asked, snickering. That was a mightily impressive speech you just made!

Liz grinned.

You pick up a thing or two working for the man for five years, she replied.

The two slowly calmed down and focused on business.

Anyway, Liz said, taking a disk from inside her pocket and handing it to Kara, Here's the info you wanted.

Thanks, Kara said. I adore you. She paused. Is there any way I could cut the rest of the day? I need to take this somewhere.

Sure, Liz said. Just head on out, and if Collins asks I'll say you went to meet a client.

Kara hugged her friend.

You're amazing, she said.

Tell me about it, Liz replied jestingly.

Kara smirked, and headed out the door.

Thank God this mess is finally coming to a close.

* * *

Sandoval waited impatiently for the pictures to finish printing. His operative had sent some photographs of Kara Jinn to him. Now to see if his instincts proved correct.

He held the paper lightly in his hands, studying it intently. The skin tone was different, as were the eyes and the hair. Sandoval would not have recognized her had he seen the woman on a street, but looking at her picture, he felt for sure that Kara Jinn was his rogue Volunteer. The shape of the face was the same, as was the vitality in her eyes...Sandoval hadn't known Kara Burns at all, except as just another Volunteer, but only a blind man could miss the life that seemed to bubble from within her.

Slowly, oh! so slowly, a smile spread across Sandoval's face. If indeed it was a smile, for it was so distorted with evil that one could hardly recognize it as such. He sent a message back to his operative.

Bring them to me.

* * *

Kara waited impatiently for Richard, Charlotte, and Harris to arrive. Renee had long since returned to DC, realizing that her presence was no longer necessary, and wanting to get as far away from Collins as possible.

Joshua was, as usual, staring morosely out the window. Kara frowned at her husband, and grew even more impatient with the investigators. I just want this whole mess to be over, dammit! I want my husband back!

As if some divine voice had heard her plea (or, more accurately, rant), the doorbell rang. Kara let out a huge sigh of relief, and hurried to open it. Harris stood uncomfortably on the other side.

Alone.

Where's Richard and Charlotte? Kara asked, her brow furrowed with puzzlement. She stood aside so Harris could enter.

They're tied up back at the hotel, Harris answered. Boss called, wanting a status report. Charlotte knew some things about the investigation Richard didn't, so she couldn't come.

Oh.

The silence between the two was uncomfortable, and Kara stiffly led Harris to the kitchen, and to a seat. She felt nervous without the reassuring presence of the other agents. The man before her was an enigma...what if he really was Sandoval's mole? Kara shuddered at the possible consequences.

I'll go get the disks, she said coldly, and fetched them from her desk. Just as she handed them to Harris, the doorbell rang once more. Kara frowned, puzzled, and went to open the door to a man who looked vaguely familiar.

Mrs. Jinn? he said. I'm Manny Johnson, one of Renee Palmer's bodyguards.

Oh, it was that nice guy she saw when she first met Harris.

Pleased to meet you, Mr. Johnson, Kara replied pleasantly. Please, come in. She stood aside for Manny to enter.

Thank you, Manny said as Kara closed the door behind him.

So, Kara said, what brings you to my door, Mr. Johnson? I was under the impression that Renee went back to DC.

And that impression would be correct, Manny replied. Ms. Palmer is back in DC. I was sent here because a few things were left behind.

Such as? Kara queried.

Manny merely smiled, and said, Could you get your husband?

Kara noted absently that she had frowned a great deal in the last twenty minutes as she made the expression once more. Hesitant, and more than a little confused, she went to get Joshua.

Josh? she said softly. Josh, someone wants to meet with you. She gently took his elbow, and he offered no resistance as she led him to the front hall. Kara shrugged I-don't-know' to Harris' questioning glance.

Joshua, this is Manny Johnson, one of Renee's bodyguards, Kara said by way of introduction. Mr. Johnson, this is my husband, Joshua Jinn.

Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Jinn, Manny said pleasantly. Joshua made no response. Manny's friendly smile of welcome faltered a bit, and he put his hands behind his back uncomfortably.

Well, he began, as I said earlier, I was sent here to retrieve a few things that were left behind.

And what would those things be? Kara asked.

You.

Hands no longer behind his back, Kara suddenly found herself on the wrong side of Manny's gun. The expression on the man's face was anything but friendly.

I'm afraid you didn't properly introduce yourself, Mrs. Burns. Or would it be Doors? You don't seem the keeping-your-maiden-name' type.

Kara gulped, her entire body trembling. Her mind ran through all the conversations she and Katie had had about Sandoval finding them, all the jokes they had made. There's nothing funny about this!

You're Sandoval's mole? she managed to choke out.

I prefer the term, astral self, Manny replied humorously. I do his work while he stays at home. Very efficient. No one ever suspects a thing. His voice hardened. Now I'm going to walk behind you Mrs. Burns, with my gun hidden on your back. You and your husband will walk side by side. We'll get into my car, and head back to Sandoval. Make no move or action of any sort to escape, and nobody gets hurt.

Going back to Sandoval qualifies as hurt, Kara snapped, feeling her shock give way to deep, red-hot anger.

Manny shrugged.

I'll rephrase, then, he said. Behave and nobody gets shot.

Without warning Joshua lunged at Manny, knocking the ersatz bodyguard to the ground. He shouted something that sounded like, I AM NOT A FAILURE!

Manny quickly flipped over, pinning Joshua beneath him, and grabbed his gun.

Some-body wasn't lis-ten-ing! he said in an angry sing-song, and aimed for Joshua's head. Kara heard someone scream, and realized it was her.

A shot rang out, and Kara covered her ears, sobbing. Unfamiliar arms wrapped around her, and a voice spoke comfortingly.

It's okay, ma'am, it said. It's okay. Your husband's fine. I shot the bastard. Your husband's safe.

Slowly Kara's sobs died out, and she realized it was Harris who was holding her. When he saw she was recovering he let go, content to watch her with concern. Eventually his words registered in her begrieved mind, and she looked at the two bodies on the floor. Manny Johnson's back was bleeding, and he didn't appear to be breathing. Kara's own breath caught as she saw Joshua slowly push the corpse off him, and sit up. She raced to her husband's side, and wrapped her arms around him, breaking back into tears.

Hesitently, Joshua hugged her back.

* * *
The End