Disclaimer: MacGyver's ideas in this story have not been tested, and some probably have a better chance than others of working in real life. MacGyver and other recognizable characters are the property of Paramount; all original characters and story © 2021 FemaleChauvinist.

Do not post without permission. Do not copy/print without including the above disclaimer in its entirety.

A/N: At this point in my alternate history, MacGyver is taking assignments from both Phoenix and DXS, but the current chief of DXS is increasingly trying to get him to take assignments that go against his conscience. Barbie

Prologue

Mandy Samuelson looked over her shoulder in wide-eyed terror as she ran down the docks, the two men in pursuit gaining on her even as she stumbled.

With a yelp of fear she steadied herself and resolved to watch where she was going, though the urge to look back was nearly too strong to resist.

She could hear their footfalls behind her now, and with a sudden turn scrambled into an old rowboat that was tied up to the dock. As she landed hard in the boat, she felt a lump in her pocket and pulled it out, staring at it in a moment's perplexity. So, this was what all the fuss was about…but why?

Why didn't matter, she determined in an instant of decision, and as quickly shoved the object securely under one of the seats.

The next moment she screamed as a shot rang out and the boat rocked with the impact of a bullet.

Heart pounding in terror, Mandy threw herself over the side of the boat and dove under the water.

She stayed submerged as long as she could, swimming desperately in the hope that her pursuers would be unable to track her progress under water.

When she surfaced to gasp for air, there appeared to be no sign of them, though she doubted they had given up completely.

She had to find a hiding place before they returned, she thought desperately. Pulling herself to the dock, she ran to the door of a houseboat that was moored there and pounded frantically.

There was no response, and with a whimper Mandy tried the handle.

To her surprise, it was unlocked, and she quickly slipped inside.

First chapter coming next week! (Unless the library closes again. Due to a recent change on the Fanfiction website, I may not be able to post from my phone, as I did over the spring and summer.)

I proofread all my stories at least once before posting, but if you see any mistakes I might have missed, please let me know!

Please note that I have only minimal internet access, and may not have time to respond to all reviews/messages. (But they are much appreciated, even if you're reading this story long after I originally post it!) If you have questions regarding my MacGyver alternate history, check my profile first to see if they're answered there. Thanks for your understanding! Barbie