Parker's Office

Broots watched as Miss Parker loaded her weapons. She looked as though she was preparing for a war.

Miss Parker, I really don't think this is a good idea.

She turned on him quickly, holding the gun way too close to his face.

And your counter suggestion?

Well I.don't have one.

Wrong answer Broots. She cocked the gun in his face and he blinked his eyes, We'll just do it my way, don'tcha think?

He simply nodded. A moment later, he stopped her again.

But Miss Parker, you can't go in there alone

The icy smile that lit her lips sent a chill up his spine. She pat his shoulder.

Don't worry, Broots, I won't be alone.

He let out a sigh of relief, Thank God—

—You'll be with me.

Broots' face quickly turned ashen.

***********
491 North Barker
Basement


Jarod had been unable to rouse Sydney to coherency. Instead he had sat vigil on the edge of the cot, soothing him when he stirred. The pretender heard footsteps on the floor above, followed by the door being unlocked and open. He recognized the heels clicking on the stairs: he would know her anywhere. Only it wasn't Miss Parker. It was a clone who had gone the way Miss Parker would have, had it not been for Sydney. Jarod brushed a soft hand across Sydney's forehead. And a moment later, she appeared in front of him, gun in hand.

Get up, Jarod.

He stood, but said nothing. She kicked the cot to rouse its occupant.

Let's go, old man—



Jarod moved toward to stop her, only to be rewarded with a gun to his temple.

Don't, Jarod.

Sydney stirred then, his voice groggy,

It's okay, Sydney, I'm right here. Just relax.

Parker interrupted, Come on, Jarod, over there against the wall.

Sydney couldn't understand what was going on,

Yes, Sydney, it's me, Miss Parker. Now rise and shine, or you'll miss it.

Miss what?

The clone shoved Jarod into a chair that was bolted to the wall. She fastened the handcuffs to his wrists, and then she turned to look at Sydney.

Parker? What are you doing? What will I miss?

You'll miss the execution of your science project, Jarod.

***********