Second Chances: Betrayal By The Book

A Simon & Simon/Six Million Dollar Man Crossover Story

Rick and A.J. are ready to celebrate a family wedding, but when his wife disappears, Rick must face not only searching for her, but protecting his family against a madman's obsession.

This is a work of fiction. No money is being made on it, and the characters are owned by Universal and are only being borrowed for a little while. .)

Prologue

Her head ached, and for a moment Laurie Simon didn't remember where she was.

Then she heard the moan next to her, and panic overtook her as she turned and saw her daughter tied up and unconscious next to her.

"Robin!" she cried, trying to reach for her and discovering her wrists and ankles were bound together. Wriggling around, she managed to place her fingers on Robin's wrist, and was relieved to feel a strong pulse.

"I didn't hurt your daughter, Laurie. Just gave her a little something so I could bring her to you."

The voice of James Archer startled her, and rolling to her right side she saw him standing next to the edge of the canopied bed she'd been placed on.

"Why, James, why did you do this. Not my daughter, please. I'll stay and write all the stories you want, but please send her back home." She begged.

"But Laurie, dear, she is home. I'll bring the others too, where you'll all be safe and you can still write your stories." Archer's voice was still gentle, but as Laurie gazed fearfully at him, she saw a crazed look come into his eyes.

"You should be grateful I brought her, I could have done what that millionaire did, but no, I didn't hurt her!" he yelled, then suddenly backhanded her, driving her head back with the force of his hand. Involuntarily she cried out, then Archer hit her again, cutting her lip.

Dazed, Laurie saw the rage on his face, then heard Robin's voice, heavy with sleep, "Mama?"

"Shhh." She murmured, then looking the madman in the eyes, managed to say, "I'm glad you didn't hurt her, I'm sorry you're upset, James."

Laurie felt sick for having to grovel, but instantly the anger on the man's face faded to be replaced by a smile.

"That's okay, Laurie, I should have known you would be startled waking up in a strange place." He leaned over and she had to stop herself from flinching as he helped her to sit up.

"Is that better? Let me get you some water, then maybe you give the speech you were going to present before the blackout hit!" Like a little kid expecting a treat, Archer bounced away, giving Laurie a minute to turn and see her daughter's horrified face.

"Mama, why did Mr. Archer do this? What did he do to you?" she cried softly, putting out her bound wrists and touching Laurie's face.

"It's okay, honey, he's a very sick person, but we'll get away from him, your father will find us." Laurie promised, then closed her eyes, praying Rick would pick up her signal again.

Praying this nightmare would end.