by Mary T. Kalnin
 

"Hi, Steve, are you all right?"

"Yes, Jess. I'm all right. And now to get this out of the way, it was a good session and I'm comfortable enough so that I'll continue to see her. We've agreed that we can work together. Dad, you were right, she does like cops, at least those who really believe in what they're doing. We talked a lot. We even talked a little baseball. She told me that her prescription this weekend is for me to attend the Dodger games, and she meant it. She thinks that I should spend some time trying to have a good time. So, anybody want to go with me?"

There came a collective sigh of relief from the peanut gallery, and Mark replied: "Just try to keep me from it. Amanda, Jesse, Susan?"

Susan answered: "I pulled another shift tonight, but tomorrow and Sunday, sure."

Said Amanda: "You bet. May I bring CJ?"

"Of course," Steve replied.

Jesse looked at Steve and said: "Hey, I have to be there, I'm your doctor." He continued in a more serious vein: "Yes, Steve, I'll be there. I'll be there through all of this."

"Thanks, Jess." Steve changed the subject: "So, what did you guys do while Dr. Martines and I were talking?"

Mark replied: "Captain Herrera brought the sketches and Amanda filled him in on the logo. He said that he'd check your old case file to see if an "Omega anything" turns up. He hasn't called, although I suppose it's still too soon."

"It is, dad. I have a lot of case files."

Amanda said: "Penalty for being a hot cop."

Steve grinned and, with a rare twinkle in his eyes, countered: "A hot cop, huh? Ooh. That could be interesting."

Amanda snorted in disgust and then realized what Steve had said. She smiled gently and replied: "It's nice to have your sense of humor back, at least for now."

Steve said in a quiet voice: "Yeah, it felt good. I just don't know what's going to happen on Monday. That's my next appointment."

Mark interjected: "Steve, remember what you told us. Try not to dwell on what's coming. Take this weekend to relax as much as possible."

"You're right, dad. Let's go get the tickets, shall we?"

"You're on, son. Five tickets for tonight, six for tomorrow and Sunday. I'll call you later with the stadium entrance."

Steve and Mark said good-bye and took their leave. They drove to Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine, bought the tickets and returned home.

As they entered the house, Mark turned to Steve and asked:

"Hungry?"

"Yeah, how did you know?"

"Son, you rarely eat anything when you're apprehensive or troubled. When the crisis is over, you are generally hungry. What would you like?"

"I don't know. Wait, I do know. Just a sandwich now. During the game I'll try the hot dogs and pizza. They come highly recommended as accompaniments to baseball games. Now, where's my old glove?"

"In the closet, but what do you mean by hot dogs and pizza coming highly recommended? Who recommends them?"

"Dr. Elena Martines, baseball aficionado."

"Dr. Martines? Really?"

"Yes, really. Would I lie to you?"

"No, you'd never get away with it."

Steve stuck out his tongue and went to make a sandwich. Mark followed him into the kitchen and made a sandwich for himself. They picked up a pitcher of iced tea and glasses and went out onto the deck. Just after they began to eat, Steve looked at his father and said:

"All right, dad. Ask it."

"Ask what?"

"You know what."

"Steve, I have no intention of asking anything. Do I want to know what went on? Of course I do. How could I not? Do I hope that someday you'll be able to tell me? Yes, again. Parents are like that. Son, I am quite aware that I am not entitled to know what went on in that session, and I will not break the promises that I made to you. I will not pry."

"Thanks, dad. It means everything to me that you won't. Actually, there's no reason that you can't know what happened today. It went much as you said it would. She did ask one leading question but accepted the fact that I really couldn't answer it. Somehow, I don't think she'll let me off the hook again. We talked about what she thinks of me and what she thinks of the Dodgers. Then she let me go with the admonition to spend some time thinking about why I tried to con her, and attending the Dodger games."

"You tried to con her? Steve, I told …"

"Yeah, dad, I know, but I felt an uncontrollable urge to try. She said that everybody does, and that we do it not only to see if we can get away with it, but also in the hope that she'll call us on it. She said to spend some time thinking about it. I haven't yet, but I kind of feel that she's right."

"Then what happened?"

"I left. Uh, dad, you know that when the real work begins on Monday. I won't be so open about those sessions. Maybe after it's over and I'm OK again, but not during the therapy. OK?"

"Yes, Steve, it is OK. I won't press. I just want you to know that I will do anything that you want me to do for you, but I will leave you to ask. Just promise me that you will ask."

"Dad, I will ask. Did you call Jess and Amanda with the stadium entrance?"

"Oh, no." Mark picked up the phone and placed the required calls. They would meet at Gate B around 6:00 p.m., and take a stroll through the stadium before the game began. As Mark hung up, he looked up at Steve and said: "Steve, are you a little tired?"

"You know, dad, I'm not. Let's just take a ride in the general direction of the stadium and then head for the game."

"All right."

They took their dishes into the house and tidied up the kitchen. Just as Mark and Steve were about to leave, Charlie Clark arrived. Steve let him in and said:

"Charlie, you have a marvelous ability to show up just as we're leaving. What brings you by?"

"You're kidding, right? I just want to know if your session went OK today. Then I'll get out of you hair."

Steve laughed and replied: "Sit down. It went OK. Dr. Martines is really nice and she really cares. We're leaving because she suggested that I try to relax this weekend. Her prescription for relaxation is three days of Dodger games. Great idea, don't you think?"

"Yes, I do. Steve, there is another reason that I came. The boss is sending me to Pennsylvania to cover that national murder trial. I told him to send someone else, and when he asked why, I explained that I was helping you. Then he gave me a choice of capitalizing on the situation with an exclusive or going East. I chose East. I'll be gone for about two weeks. I'll call and leave my hotel phone number on your machine. Use it."

"Charlie, it's OK. That you would prefer to travel rather than capitalize on my situation means a great deal to me. Go and get your story." Then Steve grinned and continued: "Just make it the best one that comes out of that mess."

"Deal, Steve. I have to catch a plane. See you in two weeks or so."

Mark escorted Charlie to the door, and Charlie inquired: "Mark, any new leads on who did this?"

"We have the logo now. It's the Omega but who knows what that refers to. We also have the sketch, but I'd guess you have that. Nothing more. Charlie, thanks. Safe trip."

"Bye, Mark."

"Bye, Charlie."

As Charlie drove off the premises, Steve joined Mark at the door, coats in hand. He inquired: "Dad, do you have the tickets?"

Mark checked the coat Steve had given him and said: "Yes. Let's get out of here before someone else shows up."

"Good idea."

They quickly locked the house, got into Mark's car and left. After a nice drive to the stadium, they went to Gate B. Not long after, Amanda, Jesse and CJ arrived, and Mark gave out everyone's tickets. They entered the stadium and found their seats. Just before the game started, Steve decided that he would try Dr. Martines' recommendations and Jesse accompanied him to help carry the evening's munchies. They returned to their seats just before the National Anthem. As it finished, everybody sat and started to eat; then they heard the umpire say: "Play ball." It was a good game; Steve managed to catch a foul ball in the second inning and promptly gave it to CJ. He caught another in the seventh; that one, he kept. The game was tied at the end of nine innings. After an exciting top of the tenth when the Rockies almost scored two runs, the Dodgers won it in the bottom of the tenth. Dodgers, 7; Rockies, 6. As they left the stadium, they decided to come earlier the following evening. Steve and CJ would wander down by the field and maybe get their prize catches autographed. After saying good-bye, they went their separate ways.

After arriving home, Steve accompanied his father upstairs rather than going to his own quarters. Mark looked at him and said:

"Son, do you want to talk?"

"No, dad. I want to go to bed. I just came up to say good-night."

"Good-night, Steve."

"Good-night."

Steve went downstairs to bed and quickly fell asleep. Mark did the same.

Pt.14
The sun shone brightly through the Sloan residence on Saturday morning, but neither Sloan was up to appreciate it. Sleeping in was the order of the day. At about 9:00 a.m., Steve surfaced and wandered into the kitchen, expecting to find his dad. When he didn't, he had a moment of panic. He went in search of his father and found him still asleep, so Steve quietly left the bedroom, shut the door and returned to the kitchen, there to make breakfast and await Mark's appearance. Mark joined him at 9:15, just as Steve finished the omelets. After a quiet breakfast, Steve finally said:

"Dad, are you all right? I don't remember you sleeping this late before."

"Yes, son, I'm fine. We've all been under a tremendous strain for the past two weeks, especially you; but when you returned from your session with Dr. Martines and said that you would work together, my heart was lighter. It was as though every muscle in me relaxed. That allowed me to sleep better than I have in some time. What about you? What time did you get up?"

"Actually only fifteen minutes before you. You just described how I feel. I've been terrified of what would happen in the counseling sessions; after yesterday's I feel better. It's not that I don't know that next week things get tougher, it's just that I know Dr. Martines now."

"Steve, things do get tougher now. Do you remember that I told you that only you can do the work that will allow your mind to heal?"

"Yes."

"You start that work on Monday. You will start re-living every horrible moment, because you will never resolve it unless you do. It will be painful, frightening and stressful, but that is why Dr. Martines is there. Let her help you. Follow her advice. Let down your guard. And remember that Jesse, Amanda, Susan and I will be here to ease the pain."

"Dad, you have such a comforting way with your patients. Why do you have to be so hard on your son?"

Mark looked at Steve in genuine surprise and replied: "Steve, was I really being hard on you? That was certainly not my intent. I just want your expectations grounded in reality when you go into Dr. Martines' office on Monday. If you start your counseling with a clear understanding of what is likely to happen, you won't be unpleasantly surprised. You won't expect a quick end to this. One or even two sessions won't do it. I can't be anything but 'just dad' right now; the best that I can do for you is to prepare you. Prepare you and ease the pain when the sessions are over. Steve, I don't treat people's minds, I treat their bodies. I can afford to sit with them and tell them that everything will be all right, because it will be. Eventually they will heal. I can't treat your mind, I'm not a psychiatrist; even if I were, I couldn't treat you; it would be way too dangerous-for both of us. Just take this as my last word on the subject."

"OK, dad. I guess that I understand, but can't you, for once, say something like 'It will be OK?'"

"Steve, it will be OK. You will come out of this. I just don't want you blindsided. That's all, son."

Steve smiled a little and responded: "I understand. I guess that we're in for quite a ride the next few weeks or months. Maybe I should spend a little time on the beach thinking about what Dr. Martines said."

"That sounds like a wonderful idea. Watch the sunburn and tell me if you want anything."

Just as Steve said: "I will," the front door opened and closed. Steve and Mark looked up to find one Jesse Travis standing at the top of the stairs, medical bag and sports bag in hand. They heard:

"Hi, Mark, Steve. How are you this morning?"

Steve responded: "Oh, we're just peachy. I was just going to spend some time on the beach doing some thinking. Tell me, couldn't you decide which bag to bring?"

Jesse answered: "I intend to use both. First the medical bag, then the sports bag. Steve, come with me. I want to take a look at your wounds to see how they're healing."

Steve and Jesse went into a bedroom. Steve took off his shirt and Jess checked his torso. Steve still had a bruise or two. When Jesse palpated his rib cage, Steve flinched a bit, and Jesse remarked: "Ribs still hurt?"

"Yeah, a little. What about the burns?"

"They're pretty well healed." Jesse continued to stare at Steve's chest.

"What are you looking at? Is there something wrong?"

Jesse shook himself back to the conversation and said: "No. I just noticed the scars and started to think about everything that's happened in the past couple of years. Don't you ever think about it?"

"I try not to, but sometimes I can't help it. So, what's the verdict?"

"Things are progressing nicely. Now for the sports bag. We're going to do a little swimming today, but not for too long. And I want you to wear a shirt."

Steve looked and said: "Gee, no swim trunks?" Unfortunately, he couldn't keep a straight face.

Jesse shook his head slowly and said: "Well, I see that you're better. You know what I mean. Now, go change. And, to be specific, swim trunks and a T-shirt. Jesse disrobed to reveal his swimming attire. We're going to swim together so that I can keep you under control."

"OK."

Steve went to change and Jesse went to let Mark know the results of the exam. As he entered the kitchen, Mark questioned:

"Jess, is everything OK?"

"Yes, Mark. Everything is fine. He still has a bruise or two and his ribs still hurt, but the burns are pretty well healed. We're going to try a little swimming today."

"Swimming? Won't the salt water cause the burns to sting?"

"We'll see. I'll call it off if it does, but I'd like to see if I can get him a little more exercise."

"OK. I'll have some snacks ready when you're finished."

Steve came up from below, and he and Jesse headed for the ocean. As they waded into the Pacific, Jesse said:

"Steve, just a slow crawl. Swim at my pace. We won't say in the water too long, but if it stings tell me and we'll call it off. Steve, doctor's orders."

"OK."

They started to swim and Steve felt the water sting. He stood up and said:

"Jess, the water stings. Now what?"

Jesse stopped and stood. "We call it off, just as I said, and wait a little longer. We'll take a walk instead."

"Jess, the other day I was floating on an inner tube that I borrowed it from the Stevens twins. Let's see if they have another."

"OK."

They started to walk toward the Stevens house when they noticed that Cathy and Jane were coming toward them, with a second inner tube. The twins approached and said:

"Hi, Steve. We noticed that you started to swim and then stopped. Do you need some help?"

"No," replied Steve, "it's just that the water stings. Some of my injuries aren't completely healed yet. Cathy and Jane Stevens, I'd like you to meet Dr. Jesse Travis."

"Hello, Dr. Travis. Are you a friend of Steve's?"

Jesse replied: "Yes, friend, business partner and doctor. Today, doctor. I was trying to get him a little more exercise but it didn't work. We were going to ask if we could borrow a second inner tube and float for awhile."

Jane said: "Here you go. Enjoy." Cathy and Jane left; Steve and Jesse grabbed the tubes and headed again for the Pacific. They spent about thirty minutes in the cool water, talking and passing the time. At the end of the half hour, Jesse said: "Steve, it's about time to call it quits. Let's go in."

"OK. I have to spend a little time on Dr. Martines' other prescription for the weekend, anyway. Thanks, Jess."

"Hey, no prob. It's a little hard being your physician and your friend, but, for the moment, I'll have to be the physician. When your injuries are completely healed, I can be just your friend."

"Right now, I'll take the physician."

They went into the house, showered and changed and joined Mark for snacks and, of all things, "kool-aid." Jesse looked up in surprise when he took his first drink, but Steve explained:

"A treat whenever I was a little under the weather as a kid." He looked up at his father and said: "Cute, dad, cute." He also kept drinking it. After another half hour, Steve arose and said:

"Guys, thanks. I have to do some thinking so I'm going downstairs. Dad, I'll see you later? Jess, see you and Susan at the stadium?"

Jesse replied: "Yes, Steve. We'll try the swimming next week. Maybe the burns will be completely healed by then. See you later. Take care."

Mark answered: "Later, Steve."

Jesse picked up his bags and accompanied Steve as far as the front door. They said good-bye and Steve went into his bedroom. He stretched out on the bed and started to think: "Why did I try to pretend that nothing was wrong?"

He pondered the question for some time, and concluded that he was trying to avoid the agonizing sessions that would follow that first appointment. He also knew deep inside him that, had Dr. Martines not called him on his denial, he would never have trusted her. What happened during the abduction would always haunt him, just as his father said, if he didn't talk about it. But how could he tell anyone what really happened? It wasn't just the physical abuse; it was the mental torture. How would he ever be able to talk about that? He thought; he tried various ways of broaching the subject; he thought that he would start at the beginning; he finally decided to let Dr. Martines start that Monday session. Then he fell asleep.

Steve awoke to his father's touch. As the cobwebs of sleep left him, he said:

"Hi, Dad. What time is it?"

"It's about 5:00, Steve. We have to leave for the game, unless you're not up to it."

"I'm up for it. I was thinking before I fell asleep, and it was hard trying to decide how to start on Monday."

"And what did you decide?"

"To let Dr. Martines ask the first question. I decided that she was right when she said that I wanted her to call me on my attempt to pretend that there's nothing wrong. I decided that I couldn't have trusted her had she not done so."

"Good." Just then the phone rang. "I'll get it, Steve. Why don't you splash a little water on your face." Mark picked up the phone and said: "Hello."

"Hi, Mark. This is Charlie. Everything OK?"

"Hi, Charlie. Yes, it's been a pretty good day. We both got some sleep last night. How's the trial?"

"A media circus, just as I expected. Say hi to Steve."

"I will. Bye."

Steve re-entered the room and asked: "Who was it?"

"Charlie. He evidently couldn't talk long. He asked about you and said to say hi. Then he hung up. Says it's a circus back there."

"Yeah, I figured as much. Let's go. I want to try for an autograph."

Steve picked up his newly acquired baseball and put it in his jacket pocket. He and Mark headed for the stadium and arrived just as Amanda and CJ did. Steve and CJ went off to watch batting practice and try to get an autograph or two, while Amanda and Mark headed for their seats. As Steve and CJ walked, CJ asked:

"Uncle Steve, are you all right now? Mommy says that you're still sick."

"I feel better now, CJ. I'm not completely healed yet, but that's nothing for you to worry about. Tell me about what you've been doing."

"Well, at school we've been going on lots of little trips. We went to the zoo, to the beach and to a concert. After we go to each place, we talk about it the next day. It's fun."

"What did you learn at the zoo?"

"I learned about the animals that live there and how they live. I learned how to take care of them. When we went to the beach, we went to Malibu Beach. The teacher asked if any of us knew someone who lived there, and I was the only one who could say that I did. When I told everybody who, the teacher didn't believe me. Mommy had to tell her that I really do know you and that you're really our friend. Look, Uncle Steve, we're near the players. Can we ask them to sign our baseballs?"

"Yes."

They did, and several of the Dodgers were glad to oblige, especially for CJ. As they started to leave, one of the players mentioned to Steve that he looked familiar, and asked if his picture been in the paper. Steve replied affirmatively and introduced himself. The player then remembered the news stories and inquired after Steve's condition. After Steve said that he was all right they said good-bye.

As they returned to their seats, CJ said:

"Boy, that was fun. How come the player knows you?"

"He doesn't know me, CJ, he just saw my picture in the paper. Your Mom told me that she told you I was sick because someone hurt me. That's why my picture was in the paper."

"Oh, OK." CJ started to run ahead but Steve called to him:

"No, CJ, come back here. Stay with me. I know that you're excited about your autographs and want to show your Mom, but don't run ahead."

CJ returned and Steve took his hand. They went to their seats to find that Jesse and Susan had arrived. Jesse and Steve left for the concession stands and returned just as the umpire yelled "Play ball." This game was almost a blowout and Steve caught no fouls. The final score was: Rockies, 8; Dodgers, 3. Since the game on Sunday was an afternoon game, they decided that they would go out for pizza afterwards. With that they parted, and Mark and Steve went home to bed.

Pt.15
Steve and Mark arose to a downpour on Sunday morning. As they looked outside, it appeared that the deluge would never end. If it didn't, there would be no baseball game. Steve flipped on the morning television news and sat to hear the dismal state of the world's affairs: wars in Africa, protests in Indonesia, another shooting in the Midwest. Sometimes he wondered why he stayed a cop. He was about to shut the TV off in disgust, when he saw the local weathercaster on the screen. He heard her describe a terrible morning, clouds lifting by noon and sunny the rest of the day. Good, there would be baseball. Steve and Mark spent the rest of the morning reading. At about 10:00 Steve said to Mark:

"Dad, do you want to go for a walk? Jesse said that I need some more exercise. I thought that we could take a longer walk around the neighborhood."

"All right, Steve. Just let me finish dressing."

As they left the house, Steve was drawn again to Jim Price's gas station across the PCH. Mark inquired:

"Steve, why did you come back here? You tried before and couldn't remember anything."

"I know, dad, but I feel a need to try again." They spent about five minutes walking near the gas pumps, but Steve remembered nothing new. He turned to his father and said: "Dad, I wish that Herrera would find those guys. It's really hard knowing that they're still out there."

"Steve, did they threaten you? Is that why you won't talk?"

"Never mind, dad. I don't want to talk about it."

"Steve, you started to talk. Don't …"

"Dad, I said that I don't want to talk about it," Steve snapped. He started to jog and then suddenly stopped and bent over. Mark caught up with him and said:

"What happened? Did you hurt your ribs again?"

"A little. I sort of forgot what Jess said about strenuous exercise. That's not the only reason I stopped, though. I'm sorry that I snapped at you. I know that I started to say something. But I shouldn't have, and I won't continue. Just let it rest."

They continued their walk, stopping now and then to respond to a neighbor's inquiry. Steve was glad to know that those he considered neighbors and friends, cared. On their way home, they stopped at a video store and returned home at about 11:00, just in time to freshen up and drive to the stadium and meet Amanda, CJ, Jesse and Susan. If he did nothing else that day, Steve was determined to relax and enjoy the game. He caught no fouls, but everyone had a good time. The game was a blowout, so it was not terribly exciting. The bright spot was the score: Dodgers, 10; Rockies, 1. The Dodgers had won the series, thus putting them one game ahead of the Rockies in the battle for the Division cellar. However, the local populace was happy. They had agreed to go out for pizza after the game, and spent a fair amount of time deciding where. They finally decided on a small Italian trattoria near the hospital-Luigi's. The place was always crowded, so good was the food. As they entered the restaurant, Luigi spotted them and said that there was a table large enough to accommodate them in the back. He escorted them to it and remarked that there was no hurry. If his friends chose to spend a rare night out with him, he would have them stay as long as they wished. Luigi inquired after Steve's condition and was pleased to learn that he was improving. They ordered several different large pizzas, iced tea and cola. After about an hour of serious pizza consumption, Luigi returned with spumoni for all, espresso for those who were so inclined and sambuca for Steve. Following another hour of conversation, they parted company and went their separate ways.

As Steve and Mark entered their home, Mark said:

"You up for a movie? I picked up one of the Star Wars movies when we stopped at the video store."

"Sure, let me get something to drink and I'll join you."

"Bring something for me, please?"

"Sure." Mark and Steve finished the night with a movie and conversation. At 10:00 Steve said:

"Dad, I want to go to bed. I still have some thinking to do. Do you want to drive me to the hospital tomorrow, or shall I get Jesse to do it?"

"Steve, I'll do it and work on the case while I wait for you. Maybe we can solve this thing."

"Thanks, dad." Steve didn't have the courage to say how much he hoped that his dad and his friends could do just that. They said good night and retired. Steve spent another hour in deep thought. How would he tell her what happened? How could he tell her what they did to him? He would answer her first question and hope that it would provide a vehicle for him to at least start talking about it. Then he slept.

Pt.16
Monday, July 15th, began with an early telephone call. Steve picked up the phone expecting to hear the voice of Charlie Clark. He heard the voice of Captain Jack Herrera:

"Good morning, Steve. I've been wondering how you are doing. I finally couldn't stand it and had to call. Are you awake?"

"I am now." Then, with a laugh in his voice, Steve continued: "Actually, I was awake before you called and having breakfast. Things are OK. They really don't change much, Captain. I suppose that you want to know about the counseling. I had a preliminary meeting with Dr. Martines last Friday. The real work starts today at 2:00. Then we'll know how I am. I hope that you called with good news about the case; like you found the perps and have them locked up."

"No such luck, Steve. We can't find any reference to Omega in your files and no one has a clue on the sketch. We ran another DMV search, and came up with one thousand trucks registered in the LA area that match Ms. Hilliard's description. You know as well as I, it's legwork."

"Yeah, but I was hoping."

"Why, Steve? It is important?"

Steve shouted: "Yeah, it's important! I'd like to have the bastards arrested. You wouldn't mind trying a little harder, would you?" With that, he slammed the receiver down and walked out onto the deck, slamming the door behind him. The telephone rang again and Mark answered:

"Hello. Captain Herrera, is that you?"

"Yes. I guess I said the wrong thing. Do you know what set him off?"

"I think it's the fact that there hasn't been an arrest yet. That seems to trouble him, although he still won't talk about it. Maybe we can make some progress this afternoon."

"We? I thought that you weren't going to be involved."

"Not directly. But, I'm hoping that he'll see fit to tell me what went on. But I don't count on it. Jesse, Amanda and I are going to work on the case again while Steve is with Dr. Martines. Maybe we'll turn up something."

"Thanks for telling me, and I'm sorry that I upset him. I really didn't mean to do that." As Mark said that he understood, Steve re-entered the house and motioned for the phone. He said:

"Captain, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have shouted at you. I know that you're trying."

"Steve, it's all right. I look forward to the day that I can come out there and tell you that we have the creeps in custody. And Steve, I have everybody on it, not that I have to ask. Everybody sends greetings. When you're up to it, stop by."

"I will. Good-bye, Captain."

"Good-bye, Steve."

Steve hung up the phone and remarked: "Dad, I'm sorry about that. I don't know why I did it."

"Don't you?"

"OK, I do. I'm going to take a walk."

"Want company?"

"No, not this time."

"Take care."

Steve left the house and walked about one mile down the beach. On his return, he stopped to chat with several of the lifeguards and denizens of the beach. He entered the house just as Mark hung up the phone.

"Who was it, dad?"

"Jesse. Just wondered if everything is all right."

"I bet."

"Steve, you have several hours before you have to be at the hospital. Is there anything specific that you would like to do, or would you just like to stay around the house?"

"Actually, I'm getting really bored around here. How about we go window-shopping at the mall?"

Mark looked up from his magazine with a smile:

"Do I hear correctly? My son actually wants to haunt a mall?"

"Yeah, I told you I was bored. Besides, I keep thinking about what's coming and it depresses me. If I keep dwelling on it, the actual appointment is going to be twice as hard. Would you mind?"

"No, of course not. Any particular mall?"

"No, any one that's big."

"Let's go."

So off they went. They drove to a large mall not far from Community General. There they passed the time until 1:00 when they drove back to the hospital and went to the doctor's lounge. They each took a coffee and sat to talk. Before Steve was realized it, the time of his appointment was at hand. He and Mark exchanged glances, which said everything there was to say. They agreed to meet later and Steve went off to Dr. Martines' office. As he opened the door and entered, Dr. Martines was just finishing a conversation with her nurse. She saw him and motioned him into her office, where she would join him as soon as she finished.

"Hello, Lt. Sloan. I'm glad that you're here."

"Did you think that I wouldn't come?"

"I knew that you would come, but that doesn't make me any less glad to see you. Believe it or not, you look relaxed. Did you do as I asked this past weekend?"

"Yes. The games were great, didn't you think so?"

"You saw me?"

"Sure."

"I had hoped that you wouldn't, because I didn't want you to think I was checking on you."

"Weren't you?"

Dr. Martines smiled and replied: "Not really. I have season tickets. I told you that I'm crazy for baseball. I'm glad that you were there, because I think it was good for you. Did you have some fun?"

"Yes. I also thought a lot about what you said. I did want you to call me on my little con job. It helped me to trust you."

"Good. Would you object if I called you Steve?"

"No. Lieutenant seems a trifle formal."

"Steve, tell me what happened."

"You don't waste time, do you?"

"Would you want me to? I sensed that you were waiting for me to ask a question."

"You read me about as well as my father does. What's your secret?"

"Years of experience."

"I was kidnapped. That's what happened. But that's not what you want me to tell you. I was pumping gas at a station across from my home. Before I knew what was happening, three guys jumped out of a pickup. They slugged me in the stomach and pushed me into the truck bed. Before I could get away, they were on top of me holding me down. They handcuffed my wrists, tied my ankles, gagged and blindfolded me. I guess that they didn't want me to cry out while we were in traffic."

"You were in traffic?"

"Yes, I felt the truck stop and go, but I don't know where we went, because of the blindfold. When we stopped, they pulled me out of the truck and dragged me into some kind of building. Next I remember being shoved into some sort of room, and they removed the gag, cuffs and ropes but not the blindfold. I started to fight but they grabbed me again and I felt a gun at my head."

As Steve finished the sentence, he arose and walked over to the window. Dr. Martines watched and waited. She might have to probe further, but she decided to give Steve a chance to continue his narrative. He turned toward her and said:

"Aren't you going to ask what happened next?"

"No. You'll tell me in your own time. I do, however, sense that everything you've said so far is preliminary. I suspect that, however frightening the initial kidnapping was, the real horror story has yet to unfold. Sit down and try to continue."

Steve sat. "You're right. Whoever had the gun started to play with me. I'd feel it against my temple, then against the back of my neck, then against my chest, then everywhere. He had cocked the gun, so I never knew if he was going to pull the trigger. I was very much afraid, which was the intention."

"Were you ashamed that you were afraid?"

"A little, I think. I kept telling myself that it was natural to be afraid, but I couldn't help thinking that I'm a cop and am supposed to be prepared to die."

"I see."

"Is that significant?"

"I doubt it. Tell me, when you're on duty, are you afraid that you might lose your life?"

"I don't think that I'm 'afraid.' I'm not eager to die, but if it were my life or a civilian's, I wouldn't hesitate to protect the person. It's the oath that I took. I would hate to die for nothing, though."

"And that is why you were afraid. Steve, don't let that trouble you. You had every right to fear for your life. As we continue our sessions, remember that you were probably kidnapped because you are a cop. Had they killed you, you would have died for nothing."

"I guess. After awhile I could feel one of them pull the blindfold off and they all left. I explored the room as best I could, but it was dark. I couldn't see and lost all sense of time. I was left alone for a very long time, though. When they came back, they flipped on a bright light, which blinded me. When I finally adjusted to it, I still couldn't see them. Whenever I was alone, the room was dark; whenever they were with me, it was light, but they always wore the ski masks. When they came back the first time, they grabbed me and pulled my clothes off. Then they handcuffed me to the doorknob and beat me with their fists until I sank to my knees. Afterwards, they cuffed my wrists together and left. The last thing that I remember was crawling away from the door."

"Anything else?"

"Not for a long time. I woke up but was still alone. I had a little more strength so I tried to open the door. I don't know why I thought that I could, but I had to try to get out of there. I just kept thinking about getting out, or being rescued. Finally the door opened again and they were back. One of them shoved something into my mouth that tasted like a slice of bread. I was going to spit it out but felt the gun on my Adam's apple. I swallowed it like they wanted; they held my mouth open and poured water down my throat. Then they laughed. I suppose that it was funny to them, a cop under their control and on bread and water. That's all that they ever gave me, and I'm sure that was because they wanted me alive. I really thought that they were going to kill me slowly. They knocked me around again and when I was down started kicking. Wonderful hosts. Then they left."

As Steve finished the sentence, he arose again and returned to the window. Dr. Martines saw him shudder a little. She decided to wait again. After about five minutes, she said:

"Steve, is there anything more?"

"There's lots more. The beatings that day were just the beginning. Look, can't we let this rest for today? Is there any reason that I have to re-live this all at once?"

"No, but I thought that you were eager to put it behind you?"

"I was going to put it behind me the last time we spoke, but you wouldn't let me. Everybody told me that I had to open the box and let it out. Well, now it's coming out just like you wanted, but I'm going to let it out at my pace. Dr. Martines, have you ever had to re-live something that terrified you to the depths of your being?"

"Yes."

"Did you want to do it all at once?"

"No."

"Well, neither do I. When I was still naïve, I thought that I could get it over with in one or two meetings with you. Dad said otherwise and he was right. There's only so much that I can take. Can't you live with that?"

"Yes, Steve. There is no set time limit on these things. No timeline that says if you were kidnapped for a day, you should be over it in two sessions, three days, four sessions. It takes as long as it takes, and only you can tell me when you have healed. Is there anything more that you want to say, or shall we wait until our next appointment?"

"Let's wait. It gets worse."

Dr. Martines looked at him and saw the wall around him crack a little. Good, she thought, he's starting to let his guard down, but she realized that this would take some time. She sensed that what was to come would take Steve down paths he didn't want to go, and that she would occasionally have to push him. But that was for another time. She asked:

"Steve, when do you want to come back? Sometime later this week, or next week?"

"I don't know. I thought that psychiatrists did one-hour sessions once a week and that was it."

"People often have that misconception. TV, you know." She grinned and continued: "You notice that I don't even have a couch."

Steve smiled and replied: "Actually, I didn't. What would have happened if I had wanted to continue just now?"

"We would have continued. It is true that I block out a period of time for each of my patients, but it's not always the same amount of time. For you, I'm blocking out three-hour segments, just in case we start something that can't be completed in an hour."

"Does that mean that I have to fill up three hours?"

"No, of course not. This is your call."

"Doctor, how about Friday?"

She opened her calendar and checked her appointments. Good, a three-hour block of time in the morning. She answered:

"Steve, I have a three-hour block of time between 9:00 and noon. Is that possible?"

"Sure, it's fine. Doctor, don't be too surprised if you get a call or a visit from dad tomorrow. I have something to tell him, Amanda and Jesse, and I don't think that they're going to like it. When he calls, just assure him that I'm not cutting them out. Assure him that he'll understand."

"All right. Good-bye, see you Friday."

"Good-bye, doctor."

With that, Steve left Dr. Martines' office and headed for the lounge. He stopped about half way there, and decided to take a walk around the hospital grounds before meeting his dad and his friends. What he had to say would be hard and would probably hurt them. He hated the thought of that, but it couldn't be helped. If they loved him, they'd understand.

Pt.17
Steve left the hospital and started to walk. He saw a bench and decided to sit for awhile and, before realizing it, he was deep in thought. He tried every approach that he could think of to drop his little bomb. Oh, how he hated that word, and how he hoped that they wouldn't take it wrong! But he still felt that they might. He finally decided that he would just tell them as quietly and gently as possible. With the calm that comes from having made a decision, he arose and entered the hospital through the Emergency Room entrance. As he entered, Jesse saw him and inquired:

"Where have you been? Your dad saw Dr. Martines in the corridor and asked about you. She told him that you'd left some time before, and were probably out walking. He's waiting for you up in the lounge."

"Yeah, I know. I had some things to think about. Are you and Susan free, now?"

"Yes, unless we have another traffic pileup. Do you want us to join you?"

"Yes, do you know if Amanda is around?"

"Yes, she just got back from a murder scene. I'll call her."

Jesse picked up the phone and dialed the pathology lab. When he heard Amanda's voice, he told her that Steve wanted to see them in the lounge. She said that she was on her way, and Steve, Jesse and Susan went off to the doctors' lounge to find Mark. They reached the door of the lounge together. Steve went in, and the others lingered at the door to let Steve and Mark have a private moment if they wanted it. Steve motioned them in and asked that they sit. He wandered to the window and looked out, unsure of what the first word out of his mouth would be. Jesse took the decision out of his hands:

"Steve, what is it? Why did you ask us all here?"

"Because I have something to ask of you-all of you, but I don't know how. You have been more help and comfort than I could have imagined, but …"

"But what?," asked Mark.

"Dad, do you remember the first few days that I was home? Do you remember that you asked if you were hovering and did I mind?"

"Yes. You said that I was but that you didn't mind. Have you changed your mind?"

"In a way, yes. You are all hovering, wanting to help and, except for Jess, not knowing what to do. I'm asking that you back off a little; right now it would be the best help that you could give me. Dad, would you mind going back to work? Guys, would you care if we saw each other only once or twice a week?"

Mark replied: "Steve, are you sure that you will be all right home alone all day? I can't help but worry about that."

"I know, dad. Yes, I'll be all right. In fact, I'd like it for now. It gives me time to think and prepare for the counseling sessions. It also lets me calm down after them, before you get home. On days when I don't have sessions, I thought I might spend some time at Bob's. Jess, may I please start to jog?"

Jesse answered: "Yes, Steve, but go slowly. Increase your exercise a little at a time and you'll be back to normal very soon."

Amanda interjected: "Steve, just don't shut us out. If we've hurt you by hovering, you know that we didn't intend to."

"It is not my intention to shut any of you out. For now, I'm asking for some space. That's all."

After Steve finished, there was a period of awkward silence, but Mark finally said:

"Steve, if this is what you need, we will respect your wishes. Just tell us when you want our help."

"Dad, I will. I'm sure that none of you understand. You will. I give you my word that you will. I have another appointment on Friday morning. A little dinner and a movie on Saturday night?"

Jesse replied in their names: "Yes, Steve. Oh, before you leave, come with me. I want to take another look at your burns. Mark, meet us in the ER in about 15 minutes."

Steve and Jesse left; Mark, Amanda and Susan remained seated at the table. Finally, Susan broke the silence:

"I wonder what's really wrong. What's going on inside Steve that he's asking for this 'space'?"

Amanda replied: "It's obvious that Steve's attitude is connected to what happened during that abduction. I just wish that he would confide in us."

Mark said: "I think that he's just said that he will tell us, but not until he has finished his counseling. We'll just have to wait it out."

Said Susan: "We know, but we can't help wondering."

As Jesse and Steve went into an ER exam area, Steve removed his shirt and Jesse asked:

"Steve, can you tell me what's wrong? As your doctor, I mean."

"Jess, I can't."

As Jesse examined Steve, he said: "All right, Steve. Can you tell me if it has anything to do with your physical injuries?"

"Oh, no, Jess. I didn't realize that you were worrying about it."

"I'm your doctor. Occupational hazard."

Steve smiled and said: "I see. So, is everything progressing as you would like?"

Jesse handed Steve his shirt and replied:

"Yes, you're coming along fine. As we discussed on Saturday, I think that by the end of this week you should be able to swim without discomfort." Jess looked up and noticed Mark standing in the doorway. He said: "Hi, Mark, come on in. We've just finished. Everything is fine."

Mark replied: "That's good. Steve, do you want me to take you home, or would you rather I stay here. I'll give you the car keys and hitch a ride home with Jess."

He flashed Jesse a questioning look and Steve cut in:

"Dad, come home with me. We'll start tomorrow." Steve turned to Jesse and said: "Thanks, Doc. Bye."

Mark and Steve left the hospital and drove home in silence. When they arrived, Steve followed his father upstairs and said:

"Dad, sit down, we have a few things to talk about."

"What, son? You've been honest and told us what your needs are. I won't …"

"Dad," Steve interrupted, "I'm not worried about your forgetting your promise and asking me how things are going with Dr. Martines. I know that, once in awhile, you will forget. It's OK. I can also see in your eyes that this is troubling you. Don't let it. It's best, believe me."

"Steve, we've talked before. It might seem strange to you, but I do understand how you feel. My patients sometimes feel the same. It's easier to comply when it's a patient and not a son. Forgive me when I forget."

"I will."

"Steve, this goes back to what was troubling you in the hospital."

"Yes, it does, but until I can tell Dr. Martines, I can't even begin to tell you."

"Is it your ambivalence about staying on the Force?"

"That's part of it, but not all of it. That's not even most of it. What time is it?"

"It's about 5:00, why?"

"Let's grab some dinner at that hamburger place on the beach. Then I'd like to spend tonight alone, with some music and a good book. Maybe I can stop thinking about it for awhile."

They spent about an hour at the hamburger stand, enjoying the view of the beach while they ate. After returning home, Steve went to bed. Mark heard music from Steve's CD player, P.D.Q. Bach. He remembered when Steve bought that album on a lark; he never realized that Steve enjoyed it so much. Come to think of it, he liked it too, so he might as well enjoy it. By force of habit, Mark got up and started to go check on Steve; he managed to stop himself about halfway down the staircase. He returned to his study, finished reading a medical journal and went to bed.

Pt.18
Mark rolled over and reached to silence the alarm. Why had he set that thing? Then he remembered; he had to return to work. He arose, shuffled out to the kitchen, started the caffeine and dropped two slices of bread in the toaster. Upon hearing the toast pop up, he grabbed his breakfast and retreated to the table that overlooked the beach. He couldn't help but wonder if he was doing the right thing, but he had promised. About five minutes later, Steve arrived dressed in his running clothes and wandered to the window.

"Good morning, dad."

"Hi, Steve. It's good to see you. I was hoping that you would come up before I left. Saved me having to decide if I should visit you."

"I thought so. That's why I set my alarm. I knew that you'd wonder if I were all right."

"Are you?"

"I suppose that depends on your definition of all right. Am I great? No. Am I in good enough shape to be alone? Yes, I'll be fine. Just a minute while I grab some coffee."

He did so and when he returned to the table, his father inquired:

"Did you sleep well?"

"Well enough. I woke up a couple of time, but not because of nightmares. I thought that I'd run for a little while and then go to Bob's. I have to start doing something, and the restaurant has a rhythm: a surge of business and then a quiet time, another surge and another quiet time. You know. Can you get away at noon and meet me there?"

"I don't see why not."

"We'll have more to talk about."

"I know. It's just …"

"It's just that our routine is different from the one we've had for Lord knows how long. That upsets our balance, but we'll both have to live with it. I'll call you if I need you, but I won't. Go get dressed and we'll leave together-you for the hospital and me for the beach."

Mark left the room and Steve flipped on the television news and saw a massive pileup on the freeway. Well, at least his dad would be as busy as he. That would be good. Mark returned and they left the house.

Steve ran about a half mile down the beach and felt a little tired. "Jesse was right," he thought. "I'll have to walk back. Well that'll be better anyway. I won't be so tired when I get to the restaurant." Upon returning home, he showered and dressed. He was just about to leave when he noticed Charlie's hotel number. That case was turning into much more than a media circus, but at least the story in Charlie's paper would be accurate and fair. On a whim he picked up the phone and dialed the number, not really expecting to reach Charlie. On the third ring, Clark picked up the phone:

"Hello, Clark here."

"Clark who? Clark Kent? Mild mannered newspaper reporter?"

"Hi, Steve, good to hear your voice."

"I didn't expect you to be there. What gives, Clark? Taking it easy on the company's dime?"

"You bet; anytime I get the chance. So what's up there? Anything new?"

"Not much. I had my first 'real' appointment with Dr. Martines. It was OK. What about the trial? Seems like more than a media circus now."

"It's a mess. Justice is down here looking into civil rights violations."

"Think they'll find any?"

"Sorry to say that they just might. I'll give you all the gory details when I get back. Steve, uh, is there any news on your case?"

"Nothing since you left. They're running down trucks now, matching owners to case files. They've got around a thousand to check. You'd think that by now someone would have found a simple way to do this, but no. I shouldn't complain; they're doing their best."

"I'm sure that they are. Steve, I have the TV on and it looks like something is building here. I'd better get on it. I'm sorry."

"That's OK. I'm going back to Bob's today. I have to start to do something normal between appointments. Dad's gone back to work."

"I bet he loved that."

"He's worried, but he did it. He doesn't know quite what to do or say. Jesse's the only one who's really had something to do."

"Yeah. We'll talk again. Keep me posted."

"I will. Bye."

Steve hung up and left the house. It felt good to drive his truck again. He drove leisurely to the restaurant and went inside. Everyone there was pleased to see him. He asked his cook, Marty, and his lead server, Kevin, to grab some coffee and join him at a back table. Kevin spoke first:

"Hi, Steve. It's good to have you back."

"It's good to be back. Fill me in on what's been going on."

Replied Kevin: "Not much. We've had a lot of business lately, new customers. Unfortunately, many of them seem to be gawkers. They come and ask stupid questions about whether this is the restaurant that the cop who was kidnapped owns. We're tempted to blow them off, because most of them never come back." Just as Steve frowned, Kevin continued: "Don't worry, we don't do it; we just hate seeing you as a roadside attraction."

"Is it really that bad? I'm not sure that I could take that."

Marty took up the narrative: "Some days it is. However there is one group of ten that comes in twice a week, two couples and their kids. We've tried to engage them in conversation but they say only that they love the food, that they're pleased their children are welcome, and that this is their way of trying to give support to the officer who was so badly hurt."

He saw Steve's brow furrow and continued: "They seem to be genuinely concerned about you. Some of the customers are. We actually did pick up some new steady diners. They came because of your situation, but they really like the food and they're now regulars."

"That's good. Do you have anything with the name of that large group? I'd really like to check them out. Kind of gives me the creeps."

"Do you think they had something to do with your abduction?"

"I don't know. Probably not, but I want to check."

Kevin replied: "Yes, come to think of it. They were here last night. I think we still have the credit card receipts." He left to get the receipts and Marty continued:

"Steve, you have to place some orders and make another batch of sauce. I was just going to place them and call you about the sauce. I saw the news this morning and didn't feel that I could bother Jesse."

"You were right not to bother him. That accident was a mess. What do we need?"

"Just about everything. The order is in your office. I'm sure that the suppliers will be glad to hear your voice."

Just as Marty finished, Kevin returned with the credit card receipt in question. The meal was charged to the account of John Holloway. Steve looked up and said:

"Doesn't ring a bell. Do we have a receipt for the other family?"

"No, Holloway usually pays the bill."

"Give it to me. I'm going to go back and call this in and then place those orders. When I've finished I'll make the sauce."

When Steve reached his office he picked up the phone and dialed the number of his captain. After two rings he heard:

"Captain Herrera."

"Hi, Captain, this is Sloan. I have a name that I'd like you to check. According to my staff, two couples and their children have been coming into the restaurant since the abduction. They say that they like the food and want to do what they can to help me. I guess that means that they don't want Bob's to go under. The MasterCharge account is under John Holloway. It's probably nothing but it gives me the creeps. You know?"

"Yes, I understand, Steve. Call you at Bob's?"

"Yes, I'll be here all day. I had to start doing something. The only possible problem is that my lead server says that people are coming in to gawk. I'm not sure that I can be a sideshow. Call as soon as you have the information?"

"You bet. Maybe I'll stop by for lunch to see if you're becoming too big an attraction. Maybe I can do something about it."

"Thanks, Captain. Good-bye"

Steve hung up and placed his order, and then made the sauce. He went back to reconcile his books, and waited for the lunch rush, which came right on schedule. He went out to greet his customers and several of his regulars engaged him in conversation. They were certainly pleased to see him. Mark arrived about 12:10 and they went to a back table. Mark started the conversation with:

"Hi, son. How have you been holding up?"

"Fine dad, it's been a busy morning. Gathered that you were busy, too."

"Oh, you knew about the traffic pileup."

"Yes, I'd heard it on the morning news while you were dressing." Steve stopped to order two BBQ sandwiches and then continued: "How does it feel to be back at work?"

"It does feel good to be busy and involved again, but I do worry a little about you."

"I know, but it's been OK. Kevin said that Bob's has become something of a roadside attraction, but we've picked up some new customers from the influx. He said that there are two couples and their families who come in twice a week for dinner. Apparently this is their way of trying to help-keep the business going I suppose is their idea. It seemed a little creepy so Herrera's checking them out. Probably nothing."

"That's probably true, but it can't hurt to check." Mark looked toward the door and said: "Oh, here comes Herrera now, and he sees us. Shall I leave?"

"No, dad, you can stay for this."

Herrera came up to the table and sat: "Hi, Steve. We finally found the account. He and his friends are legit. Holloway is a retired cop from North Dakota. Retired on a disability and tried to start a business. Didn't fly so he came here to start over. He's done pretty well for himself so he's always helping out when he can: charity donations, working at the soup kitchens, that kind of thing. He means what he says. Don't worry about it."

"Thanks, much. How about a BBQ sandwich?"

"Love one, thanks." He pulled out a twenty to pay and Mark interjected:

"No, Captain, this one's on me."

"Mark, you know about the …"

"It'll be alright."

"OK."

Their lunches came together and they spent a half-hour lunching and passing the time with pleasant chatter. Now and then a customer would approach the table and talk with Steve. After Herrera finished, he went back to his office, leaving Steve and Mark alone.

"Dad, do you feel better about this, now?"

"Yes, you look better, too. This was a good idea." Mark stood up and said: "See you at home. Bye, son."

"Bye dad. We can tell each other about our days."

The lunch rush ended and Steve returned to reconciling his books. Before he realized it, the clock struck 4:00. Ken, the night manager, arrived and they exchanged information. Steve went home and waited for his father to join him. About thirty minutes after Steve got home, Mark arrived. They greeted each other and Steve said:

"Hi again, Dad. How was the rest of the day?"

"Another accident. Not as big as this morning's but several nasty injuries. How about you?"

"Spent it reconciling the books. I'll have to call and thank your accountant. He really put them in good shape."

"Did he have that much to do?"

"No, they weren't that bad. But they're really tidy, now. We'll have to keep them that way. Easier said than done. Let's eat, dinner is in the oven."

They went into the kitchen and Steve retrieved the BBQ ribs from the oven and cole slaw from the refrigerator. They sat to a wonderful meal. It was like old times and the conversation didn't lag. They cleaned up together and spent the rest of the evening watching a movie. The evening ended at 10:00, as they closed the house and went to bed. Wednesday morning passed the same way, but Steve decided to remain at the restaurant that evening because the Holloway party was likely to return. If they were as concerned as it appeared, he should get to know them. Ken said that they usually came in around 5:30. Steve stayed in the office until about 5:20. He came out, seated a few guests and took their orders. At 5:30, a large party entered the restaurant and Ken showed them to their usual table. After bringing water to the table, he returned to the cash register and informed Steve that those ten people were the Holloway party. Steve approached them and greeted them:

"Good evening. I'm Steve Sloan and I understand that you have become regulars. I'm pleased that you've decided to join us."

Holloway and the other man, Judd Jones, stood up and shook his hand. Holloway replied:

"Thank you, Lt. Sloan. We're glad to know that you're improving and to finally meet you. I assume that your staff told you about us. Might I also guess that you had us checked out because our behavior struck you as odd?"

"I'm ashamed to admit that I did. I heard about your disability and subsequent business failure. Thank you for what you do for charities and for Bob's. I'll take your order and I'll leave you to your meal."

"We always order two family plates of ribs. They are really very tasty. By the way, we understand why you ran the background check. You went through a horrendous ordeal and you just wanted to be sure. We agree with you. We'd like you to join us; may we buy you a drink?"

"Are you sure that your families wish to have their dinner interrupted?"

At that remark, Mrs. Holloway interjected: "Lieutenant, we'd be most pleased if you'd join us."

The rest of the party nodded their agreement, so Steve turned in the order, grabbed a glass of iced tea and rejoined the party. He spent about fifteen minutes with them and then had to attend to restaurant business. When they left, the children approached Steve and said good-bye. He waved at the others and they departed. Captain Herrera was right. These were good people; he'd been wrong to distrust them, but they seemed to understand, and he was happy to have such pleasant new customers. Bob's closed at 9:00 and Steve went home, spent an hour with his father and welcomed the sleep that came to him upon retiring. Thursday was an easy day at the restaurant, and by the time Steve returned home at 5:00, he was more relaxed than he'd been since the abduction. Steve had not been home five minutes when Mark arrived and called:

"Steve, are you here?"

"Yes, dad, I'm in the kitchen grabbing a soda. Want anything?"

"Yes, grab one for me and meet me on the deck."

"OK." Steve procured the sodas and joined his father on the deck. "Hi, dad. Was your day as relaxing as mine?"

"Yes, it was, although Amanda, Jesse and Susan are really wondering how you are. They hoped that you would have called them by now. I promised them that I'd ask. Steve, they don't mean to hover or pry."

"I know. My appointment with Dr. Martines is at 9:00 tomorrow morning. She sets aside three hours for me and I'll probably use it. Things get really tough from now on; Monday was no picnic, but what I have to say gets harder to relate. I intended to ask you to pick up something from Bob's tomorrow. I thought that we'd all have a bite at the hospital after my session."

"That sounds fine. What do you want to do about dinner tonight?"

"I thought that we could go out for dinner and then catch a movie. We're still the only two people in the world who haven't seen the big ship sink. Maybe we should."

Just as Steve finished the sentence, Mark took a drink of soda. It brought such a laugh from him that he spat out half his soda. Steve watched him through gentle eyes and finally commented:

"Dad, I haven't seen you laugh like that in a very long time. It's good to see it."

"It was good to be able to do it. You're right; maybe we should see it sink. How about Pepe's on the beach for dinner? It's fast and it's a long movie."

"Good idea. We haven't been there in ages. Let's go."

They enjoyed dinner and, surprisingly, even the movie. On their way back to the car, Mark opined:

"Well, that was a better movie than I thought. What's your opinion?"

"Well, it certainly was grand; long, but grand. At least I can now say that I've seen it and enjoyed it."

"Yeah, son, so can I. And that might be the best part of tonight. Let's go home."

As they drove home, Steve finally said: "Dad, if I'm not up with you tomorrow, would you call me? I want to leave with you and follow you in my truck. I might as well get there and wait a little bit. Maybe I can think of how to start."

"All right, son."

Upon arriving home, they both went to bed.