by Mary T. Kalnin
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Here is a dictionary of the slang that I've used:
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?Warning: Cant is coarse and prison riots are violent. Consider that before you read this.

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Pt. 2

On Monday, June 24th, at 7:00 a.m., Steve Sloan's alarm clock sounded its wake-up call. He reached out and silenced the annoying beep, and lay in bed until he was fully awake. He showered and dressed, all the while debating how to tell his father that he was going into a prison to get a statement about a seven-year old murder. Knowing that he would stay in the administrative offices would not alleviate his father's fears; Mark knew about prisons. Steve could tell Mark straight out and hope that the shock would render his father speechless; he could fidget and hem and haw, thus ensuring that Mark would see his case of nerves. He decided to try the direct approach and headed for the stairs. Mark had just sat down to breakfast as Steve entered the kitchen:

"Hi, son. How are you this morning? Did the questioning go well, last night?"

As Steve took his breakfast and some coffee he replied: "Hi, Dad. Fine. Yes. It was a good bust and I got some interesting information from the dealer."

"Oh? What kind?"

"Possible lead on a murder case from seven years back."

"Which one?"

"Kingston murder. Remember it? We could never solve it. Even you were stumped."

"I do remember that. As I recall, you didn't stop needling me for a month."

"Yeah, that was fun."

"Smart aleck. So what was the information?

"The dealer said that a convict by the name of Jonah Waters knows something about it."

"A convict? Just a minute, son, are you telling me that you are going into a prison? Steve, don't; they're hell on earth."

"Dad, I don't have a choice. It'll be all right. I'll be in the administrative offices."

"Which one?"

"The prison up in Lancaster. At least it's close."

"Lancaster? They had a riot three days ago! What's the matter with Herrera?"

"Dad, it's in lockdown."

"So what? Something can go wrong."

Steve shrugged and said: "Dad, I interrogated the drug dealer. He gave me the information. There's nothing I can do. I'm going to call the warden now and see if I can talk with Waters."

Steve dialed the warden's number and heard:

"California State Prison, Los Angeles County, warden Johanson's office. May I help you?"

"This is Lt. Steve Sloan, LAPD. May I speak with Mr. Johanson, please?"

"One moment, sir." After a short wait, Steve heard:

"Mike Johanson. What can I do for you, Lt. Sloan?"

"I have to talk to one of your prisoners, Jonah Waters. We busted a drug dealer last night, and he says that Waters has information about a murder."

"That's odd, Sloan. Waters is a burglar with a couple of robbery beefs. Why would he have information about a murder?"

"Yeah, I'm having trouble buying it, but I have to check. Any chance of seeing him this morning?"

"Well, we have him in a single cell because he dropped a dime on the ringleader of the riot."

"Waters ratted out a fellow prisoner? This is getting stranger by the minute. Can you bring him to the administrative offices? I really have to talk with him and I'd just as soon get it over with. Prisons aren't my favorite places."

"Yeah, I bet. I'll have him up here around 10:00. You do know that the Suttons are here?"

"Yeah. No chance that I'll run into them, is there?"

"No. Just wanted you to know."

"OK. I'll see you at 10:00. Thank you, Warden Johanson."

"You're welcome. Glad to help. Good-bye."

"Good-bye."

Mark looked at his son and said:

"I take it that the warden agreed to this."

"Yes, dad. It would be odd if he hadn't."

"Steve, please rethink this."

"Dad, I can't and you know it. I won't be there all that long. Even if Waters does know something, he won't tell me. I should be in and out of there by 10:15."

"Steve, did you say Jonah Waters?"

"Yeah, why? Do you know him?"

"If I'm right, I treated his wife many years ago. He always treated me with respect."

"Why did you say that Waters won't tell you anything?"

"He's a convict."

"So."

"A convict is a prisoner who does his time with pride and dignity and keeps his word to his fellow convicts. I thought you'd know that."

"I was on death row and I had other things on my mind, like your life."

"And yours."

"Yeah. If Waters isn't going to give you anything, why bother?"

"Have to, you know that."

"You know, I thought that we were through with this prison business. Anybody you know in there? I heard you tell the warden that you didn't want to see someone."

"Dad, there's always going to be somebody I put away in any prison I go into. It was nothing."

"Steve, I heard you. It wasn't 'nothing.' Tell me."

"Dad, forget it."

"Steve, now."

"The Suttons are up there."

"Steve, if something goes wrong and they find you ... I don't even want to think about it."

"Nothing will go wrong. I'll be careful. See you early this afternoon, or maybe even before."

"I'll be at the hospital."

"Bye, dad."

Steve noticed that his father did not respond, but he had to get on the road so he put it out of his mind. He took a couple of bottles of water for the drive and left. Mark left for the hospital about five minutes later, intent on telling his friends, Drs. Amanda Bentley and Jesse Travis, about Steve's little trip. Maybe they could help him stay calm.

At 8:30, Mark arrived at Community General and went directly to the ER, hoping to find Jesse. He was there and, as luck would have it, so was Amanda. Mark joined their conversation:

"Hi, Amanda, Jess. Are you two free for a little while?"

"Sure, Mark, why?" replied Amanda. Jesse nodded agreement.

"Come to the lounge with me." Mark walked off and they followed, noticing that he was slightly agitated. As they entered the lounge, Jesse questioned:

"Mark, you look troubled. What's wrong?"

"Steve just left for the prison up in Lancaster. He has to interview a prisoner who supposedly has information about a seven-year old murder."

Amanda interrupted: "Lancaster! You mean he's going into a prison that just had a riot? Why now?"

Mark replied: "He said that now is the best time because the prison's in lockdown. Steve also said that this guy is a convict, which evidently means that he won't give Steve any information. Steve said he figures to be in and out of there by 10:15, which makes me wonder why he's making a hot drive for nothing. What's even worse is that the Suttons are in there."

Jesse stared at Mark and said: "The Suttons? Oh, Mark, Steve shouldn't be going anywhere near them. If something goes wrong ."

"That's what I said, Jess. Steve said that he shouldn't run into them since they're all in their cells. Now you know why I'm so nervous. Keep me company when you can?"

Jesse and Amanda replied together: "Of course, Mark." They no more than said that when Amanda was called to a murder scene and Jesse to the ER. Mark went with Jess, happy to be needed and busy.
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Pt. 3

Jonah Waters was about 6'5" tall, bald and muscular. He commanded respect from prisoners, and when he spoke, they obeyed. At 8:00, as he was eating breakfast in his cell, warden Mike Johanson walked up and said:

"Waters, I got a call from Lt. Steve Sloan, LAPD, this morning. He made a drug bust last night, and the dealer told him that you have some information on an old murder case. Wants to speak with you this morning. I told him that he could meet with you in the Administrative Offices at around 10:00. We'll be back around 9:45. I sure hope that he doesn't come all the way up here for nothing."

Waters answered: "His business. He wants to come up here and jaw at me, I can't stop him. You want to take me up to see him, I can't stop you."

After Johanson and the guards left the area, Waters shook his head. "Shit," he said to himself. "How the hell did Sloan get into this? It should be a narc coming up here. Well, he'll be in my custody before the next rustle."


While Steve was still fifteen minutes from the prison, an eerie feeling crept over him. Something was not quite right. Waters shouldn't know anything about a murder, and he sure as hell shouldn't be ratting out fellow prisoners. Steve's every instinct told him that something else was going on in that prison, and that he should turn around. He chose to continue; he would decide after he arrived whether or not he should interview Waters. Steve turned the car radio to an "oldies" station and buried his instincts in the music of his adolescence.

At 9:45 Warden Johanson and several guards returned to Waters' cell and took him to the prison Administrative Offices. Several of Waters' men had reported ill and were at sick call, as arranged. Other prisoners were out in the recreation yard waiting until the cop was admitted and in the offices; unfortunately the chosen ringleader had relocated near the entrance to the administration building and out of sight. Steve reached the prison at 9:55 and pulled into the visitors' parking lot. He saw the prisoners in the yard and was disturbed:

"What's going on? Oh well, I don't know anyone in the yard so there shouldn 't be a problem. I'll talk to the guard at the entrance." As he approached the guard at the entrance point, he pulled out his badge and said:

"Hi. Lt. Steve Sloan, LAPD. I called this morning and I'm here to see Jonah Waters."

The guard replied: "Good morning, Lieutenant. Your name is right here. I need your weapon, badge, ID and cell phone."

As Steve surrendered them he said: "Why aren't you still in lockdown?"

"We lifted it last night. Everything was quiet and we had the ringleader. There was no reason to continue it. It's quiet, don't worry."

Even as the guard was reassuring Steve, Avery Sutton and his sons stood by the entrance to the administration building. Just as the guard buzzed Steve through, Sutton dropped a cigarette and signaled the start of another riot. The tumult took everyone by surprise, giving Sutton and his sons enough time to grab Steve and force him out of the building and into the building next door. They locked and barred the door to an office and shoved Steve against a wall. Sutton walked up to him and slapped his face and said:

"Welcome to my place, Sloan, nice to see you. When I found out you were coming to visit, I just had to change the plans a little. I had to have a little welcome party for you. You'll be delighted." Sutton turned to his sons and said: "Strip him down to his shorts."

**************************

During the commotion at the entrance, Johanson and Waters were looking out the window. Johanson turned to Waters and said:

"You better not be responsible for this. If that cop dies, I'll kill you myself."

At that moment, Waters' henchmen burst into the office saying:

"What happened? We thought the rustle wasn't supposed to start until Sloan was up here. Sutton dropped the fug early."

Waters grabbed Johanson and shouted: "Sloan wasn't even supposed to be here. It was supposed to one of the narcs. How the hell did he get involved?"

Johanson said: "He was doing Narcotics a favor; they needed a cop that none of the dealers knew and Sloan was the only one available. He did the interrogation. You mean that you engineered that buy? Johanson suddenly turned to Waters' man:

"Did you say Sutton started that riot?"

"So what?" replied Waters.

"You better hope Sutton doesn't have him, or you've just signed Sloan's death warrant."

Waters flashed a look of inquiry to his buddies and they shook their heads yes. He then said:

"Let's go. Do we know where they are?"

His right hand man, John James, answered: "First floor I think. After they grabbed him, we lost them."

"We'll split up. If you find him get him up to the medical unit. I'm not going to have my plans ruined." Then he grabbed Johanson and said: "You're coming with us. Move."

Waters, Johanson, James, and two more of Waters' men ran for the first floor, while another group started to search the rest of the administration building.


The guards put the riot plans into motion and called the Department of Corrections offices in Sacramento. Once that call was made, the media got wind of it. Every TV and radio station in and near Lancaster and LA sent crews to the prison, and every newspaper sent a reporter. Within one-half hour all stations were breaking into their daily programming with the news.

***********************

Unfortunately, at that moment Mark and Jesse chose to take a break, and Amanda had returned from the scene of the crime. Mark picked up the remote and turned on the TV in the hospital doctors' lounge to see what mindless entertainment was playing. He saw the "Breaking News" logo for Channel 6 come on the screen and turned up the sound so that they could hear:

"This is Peter Trent in the Channel 6 newsroom. There has been another riot at the California State Prison in Lancaster. All we know is that it started at 10:00 this morning. We have a crew on the way, and we will begin continuous coverage as soon as they arrive. Until then, we'll break in with news as we receive it. Now back to our regular programming."

Amanda and Jesse glanced at each other and then turned to Mark, who had turned white and was shaking. Jesse said:

"Mark, take it easy. We don't know what's happening. Steve might have been delayed and might not be there. Maybe he sensed something and didn't go in."

Mark arose and went to the window: "He'd have called me by now, Jess. No, he's in there. Damn it, I told him not to go. I might never forgive him for this one."

Amanda's mouth dropped open in shock: "Mark, you don't mean that! You can't mean it!"

"Amanda, he knew that the Suttons were in there. I told him it was dangerous. I told you that he said that the con he's supposed to interview probably wouldn't say anything. I told him not to go. I can't take this constant worry anymore." With that Mark sank back into his chair: "This might be the one that tears us apart. It'll be a long time before I get over it."

Jesse said: "Mark, if the worst happens, you won't have to worry about it."

"Jess, if the worst happens, you can bury him." Mark left the room and went to check his patients. Jesse and Amanda didn't see the tears.

Jesse said: "Amanda, do you think Mark means it? What are we going to do?"

"I don't think so but we'll have to stay near Mark. When this is over, we' ll have to play peacemakers. I'd guess that Mark is worried and is using this for a shield. There'll be some friction between them, but I think that we can see them through it."

"Yeah. I'll go find Mark."

"Good idea, Jess. While you're doing that, I'll call Captain Herrera. Maybe he knows something more." Amanda punched the number for Herrera's office and heard:

"Captain Spencer. May I help you?"

"Captain Spencer? This is Medical Examiner Amanda Bentley but I thought that this was Captain Herrera's number?"

"Dr. Bentley, it is. However he's working night shift this month. Anything I can do for you?"

"Do you know anything about the riot at Lancaster? Lt. Sloan is up there this morning and I want information. Don't stonewall me or you'll regret it."

"Right now I only know what you know. Herrera's on his way to the prison now. We don't know whether Sloan was inside or not. I do know that his cell phone is off. I'll keep you informed, but you'll probably get just as much information by watching TV. What's your number?"

"213.555.6666. I want you to call me with all the information that is not released. Good-bye."

She hung up and went to find Jesse and Mark.
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Pt. 4

While Waters and his men were searching for Steve, Sutton was beginning his assault on him. As his sons finished stripping him, Sutton grabbed Steve and shoved him against the wall again. He gently ran the side of his finger down Steve's cheek and said:

"Nice. Fresh meat. Clean, too. We'll all have a great time. What's the matter, Lieutenant, cat got your tongue?"

Steve didn't reply so Sutton cuffed him.

"Talk, Sloan! Aren't you having a good time? Maybe I should be a better host." Sutton picked up a shank and ran it across Steve's chest, deep enough to draw blood. "There, now we've made you welcome."

Steve still refused to speak. He figured that he wouldn't make it out alive, so he resolved to remain as silent and as uncooperative as possible. Steve thought about how much he loved his dad, Amanda and Jesse; he hoped that Jess would remember the envelope and do what he had asked. That decision made, he spat at Sutton and took a fist in the abdomen in return. Sutton then kicked him, sending a wave of pain through his body and forcing him to his knees.

"Now, Sloan, aren't you having a good time?"

Steve spat again and Sutton kicked him again.

"You know, Sloan, you are a most ungrateful guest. All right, boys, spread him on the table. We'll have our fun and then we'll turn him out."

Joseph said: "Dad, Waters will kill us."

"Waters isn't here. I'm in charge. Sloan pays." He pulled the cord from a desk lamp and whipped Steve with it and his sons hit Steve once or twice with nightsticks. Then Steve felt Sutton's hand on his shorts and he steeled himself for what would follow.

"ENOUGH."

The sound of breaking glass and Waters' booming voice startled everyone. Waters sprinted to the table and pulled Sutton away from Steve, and pushed him into a wall. He helped Steve up, taking stock of his wounds and bruises, and had James help Steve into his slacks. He turned to old man Sutton and said:

"You miserable, fucking son of a bitch! I thought you were a convict! You' re an inmate and a lousy one at that! You turn your back on your fellow prisoners for a little revenge!"

Sutton replied defiantly: "Sloan put my son in here, and then his old man put me and my other sons in here. He dies."

"Like hell he does. I have plans for him. Sloan, I can see the wounds and bruises, did anyone rape you?"

Steve looked at Waters, unsure if he should trust him, but he took a chance. He replied:

"No. Sutton and his sons hit me, cut me, whipped me, and kicked me. Just before you came in I felt Sutton's hand on my shorts; they were going to gang rape me and let anyone else who wanted me have me."

He turned to his men and said:

"James, Jones, take Sloan up to the medical unit and have the MTA check him over and dress his wounds. Draw a blood sample to send for testing with the rest of them. Then let him rest. I'll be up and we'll get on with it."

Steve hesitated a little but James said to him softly: "Come." For reasons he didn't quite understand, Steve felt at ease and went with him. After they left the office, Waters turned to the rest of his men and gave an order that made them shudder:

"Take names. Put the word out that Sutton and his boys are 187. Also tell everyone that Sloan and Johanson are hostages and that we'll call with demands later. Make sure that Channel 6 out of LA is here, and get the word out that I want them involved. Sloan's old man should be watching. Now, boys, bring these bastards along and get blood samples from each of them.
Then you can let them go. We'll see how long they last."

Waters picked up the shank and everyone moved to the prison medical unit.

*******************************************************

The clock in the Community General doctors' lounge struck 11:00. Mark had returned and flipped on the TV. Channel 6 was just breaking in again with news. Mark turned up the volume and heard:

"This is Peter Trent for Channel 6 news. Reporter Joyce McGill is now on the scene at the prison in Lancaster and we'll start our continuous coverage. Joyce, do you have any more information on the riot? Are there any hostages?"

"Peter, we've just had a statement from a Department of Corrections spokeswoman. The riot started at 10:00. Nobody knows what started it. The spokeswoman said that a Los Angeles police officer was just entering the administration building when the disturbance began. He was taken hostage but we know nothing except his name. He is identified as homicide detective Lt. Steve Sloan. Corrections officials think that Lt. Sloan is alive and unhurt. The prison warden, Mike Johanson, is also among the hostages. Other hostages are in the medical unit and are unhurt. The word is that the ringleader, one Jonah Waters, will be calling with demands, but we don't know when. I understand that it may be some time before he calls. I have been told that Waters wants to us to be the intermediary, and I have told the prison officials that we will do as he wishes. The hostages' lives evidently depend on it. Peter, I see Captain Jack Herrera from the Los Angeles Police Department; let me try to get a statement. Captain Herrera, why have you come? Can you lend some specific aid in this situation?"

"Ms. McGill, I'm here because Lt. Sloan is one of my men. He came up here to get a statement from Waters about an old murder case. I have no more information than you have. I'll be here until this ends but leave me alone. If I have news that I can share with you, I will, but my only concern is Lt. Sloan's life."

Mark laughed in derision, "Yeah, Jack. Sure it is." Amanda and Jess entered the lounge and decided to stay with Mark throughout the ordeal. Mark turned his gaze to the outside; Amanda and Jesse continued to watch the coverage.
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Pt. 5

It was 11:30 before Waters and his coterie finally reached the prison medical unit, dragging Sutton and his sons along. When they entered, Waters told one of the medical technicians to take blood samples from the "Sutton gang" and prepare them to be sent with the others, and to send the shiv as well. Since the MTA was a prison employee and not a prisoner, he looked quickly at Johanson. Johanson signaled "yes" and said:

"The samples have to go with Lt. Sloan's. It's a medical matter."

Waters saw James emerge from the infirmary and asked:

"Sloan OK?"

"Yeah. He's lying down. He's in some pain but we didn't give him anything."

"Later. Right now I want to talk to him."

"He's not saying much. He only gives one-word answers."

"No surprise. Let's go, Johanson. We'll talk to him together."

"Waters, before I help you, what are you going to do to him?"

"Nothing. The cop was never a target. Since it is Sloan, however, it will be easier to get his old man's attention, which is what I want."

"What's going on here?" replied Johanson.

"When I'm ready. For all I know you're part of it, and if you are, you go down."

"Part of what?"

"Faking test records on the clinical trials and selling the drugs."

"What?"

"Later, let's go."

They entered the hospital area and pulled chairs next to Steve's bed. Johanson started the conversation:

"Lieutenant, I'm sorry. Are you all right?"

"No." He looked at Waters and said: "Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why engineer all of this to get me up here?"

"You weren't supposed to come. It was supposed to be a narc. And whoever came sure as hell wasn't supposed to end up in Sutton's hands."

"What made you so sure that Narcotics wouldn't turn it over to Homicide?"

"I was counting on the narc wanting the information so that he could gloat when he gave you the solution to the case."

"You really don't know anything about the Kingston murder, do you?"

"No. Don't worry. As long as nobody gets trigger happy, you're not in danger anymore."

"Why did you stop Sutton?"

Turning away from Steve's gaze, Waters replied: "That bastard was screwing up my plans. I gave my word that I would get to the bottom of it and I needed a cop. Simple as that."

"All right but there's something else or you would look me in the eye. What is it?"

"I owe your old man. Leave it at that."

"All right. What is the 'it' you want to get to the bottom of?"

Johanson responded: "Some of the prisoners are taking part in clinical trials for a new HIV treatment. Waters says that someone is faking the results and selling the drugs. Where, on the outside?"

"Yeah. We got no beef about those brothers who were supposed to get the placebo. We knew going in that some would. But everyone is getting that fucking sugar pill. No matter what the results say, nobody is getting better. I gave my word to them. I'll keep it."

Just then they heard a gunshot. Johanson and Steve looked at Waters and Steve said:

"What was the gunshot?"

Johanson replied: "Probably one of the Suttons. Waters put a contract on them. It's started already. But with what?"

"Weapons from the badges we have in custody. Those bastards turned their backs on us. Now they pay. Johanson, you telling me that you aren't happy knowing the Suttons are going down? After this morning?"

"No. But you never heard it from me."

"Deal."

Steve said: "How do you know about the trials? Don't tell me that the doctor was stupid enough to keep two sets of records?"

"No, but one of the prisoners assigned up here saw the real drugs going out of here in the doc's briefcase. Then he started checking the pills and we' ve got those records. Plus, we have blood samples from those involved."

"When were they taken?" asked Steve.

"This morning. That's why I needed a cop. The plan is to get your old man up here. Him I can trust to do the right thing. When he gets here, you and I are going to take those samples and records out to him. Once he gets them analyzed he'll see that I'm right. We'll also take your sample and the Suttons' and the shiv and he can get those tested, but I don't think you have to worry. None of them have the Monster. I know that your old man will come back with enough cops to make this right. When he does, you go home."

Steve questioned again: "How far up you figure it goes?"

"I thought to Johanson here but now I'm not so sure. You in on it, Johanson? You might as well keep it real. We'll find out if you're lying."

"No, I'm not. I just read and sign the results. Assistant Warden Pike is my liaison to the doctor."

Waters studied Johanson's face and decided that he was telling the truth. Then he said:

"All right, Johanson. Work with me and prove it."

Johanson replied: "OK, Waters. If what you say is true, I want it stopped."

Steve said: "You're right about my dad. He won't like this one bit, and he 'll stop it. Let me see the information on the trials."

Waters called for Jones who brought it in. Steve read: "A blind study to determine if the addition of capravirine (AG1549) to a regimen of Viracept (nelfinavir mesylate) and 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTs) not previously taken will increase the percentage of patients achieving plasma HIV-1 RNA levels below 400 copies/ml at week 24. Group 1 receives a low dose of AG1549, Group 2 receives a high dose of AG1549 and Group 3 receives the placebo. The doctor knows who is in each group but the participants do not."

"OK. I don't understand the meds, but I get the idea of the study. What week of the study are the participants in, and how do we know that there should be some improvement?"

"We're at week 28. Results from all the other test sites show improvement. I'm going to call Channel 6 now. In a half-hour they'll have a crew at the hospital. He is there isn't he?"

"He should be."

"Good, they'll relay what I say. I want to see your father on camera. Then I'll let you rest until he gets here. After you deliver the blood samples, I'll let the MTA give you a painkiller and you can sleep until he's back. It'll be hours."

At 12:05 pm Waters picked up the telephone in the medical unit and dialed the number to reach the Department of Correction's negotiator. Upon reaching him, Waters said:

"Let me talk to McGill. I have my demands ready."

"Waters, this is Dan Page from the DOC. Let the hostages go. We'll talk. At least let Lt. Sloan go. He can't help you."

"He's the only one who can. Put McGill on now or you'll regret it. Johanson's up here, too."

Waters turned on the TV and saw Page hand the phone to McGill.

"This is Joyce McGill, Mr. Waters. What do you want?"

"I want you to relay what I say next, and I want to see it."

"All right."

"The situation is this. We hold the prison and we'll keep it no matter what. I'm holding Sloan with me in the medical unit, and he's been hurt. Johanson is up here, too. Some of the brothers are participating in clinical trials for a new HIV drug and they're being screwed. Everybody is getting the sugar pill and I can prove it. I want your station to send a reporter and camera crew to Community General Hospital and talk to the cop's old man, Dr. Mark Sloan, on camera. I want him up here to receive the proof and have it analyzed. He'll see I'm right. When he does the right thing, I 'll release Sloan. Not before."

Herrera handed McGill a note and she said:

"Mr. Waters, let me speak with Lt. Sloan and Warden Johanson. I have to hear their voices before we go further."

"All right." Waters handed the phone to Johanson who said:

"Ms. McGill, this is Johanson. I'm fine. Do as he says." Johanson then handed the phone to Steve.

"Ms. McGill, this is Lt. Sloan."

"Are you all right, Lieutenant? Waters said that you were hurt. Are you badly injured?"

"I'm hurt, but not badly. I'll live. Please do as Waters asks. I don't know how long he'll wait."

"We will, Lt. Sloan. A crew is on the way to Community General now. They'll speak with your father."

Waters took back the phone and said: "I'll be watching the proceedings from now on."

"We'll do as you say, Mr. Waters. It will take a little time to set up, but we'll do it as quickly as possible. Good-bye."

Waters hung up and turned to Steve. "What was with that last sentence? I told you that you are in no danger."

"I know, but they don't know that. If I hadn't said it they might have thought that they could stall. If what you say is true, those samples need analysis."

"Not to mention the fact that you'd like to get out of here."

"Does that surprise you?"

"No. I don't blame you."

Johanson interjected: "Waters, you're going to end up in Ag Seg for this, not to mention the extra time on your sentence. And you will do 12/12 for sure. You know that."

"Once this is over it don't matter where you put me. I kept my word to those men. They may be cons, but they deserve to have the trials run straight."

"True," responded the warden.

*************************

At Community General Hospital in Los Angeles, Mark, Amanda and Jesse snapped alert when McGill started to relay Waters' message. Jesse and Amanda gasped when they heard of Steve's injuries, but Mark said nothing. When the report ended and the station returned to rehashing the day's events, Amanda turned to Mark and said:

"You'd better get ready, Mark. That crew will be here soon."

"Who cares?" replied Mark. "I told you that this was the last straw. I told him not to go."

"Mark," said Jess, "you really aren't going to leave him there! Besides, you know that you're intrigued by the accusations about the clinical trials. You can't stand that kind of dishonesty."

"You deal with it, Jesse. I can't take this anymore. I'm too old."

"Mark, Waters specified you. If I try, Waters might kill him."

"He'll die anyway. If he's been hurt there was probably blood and maybe rape. If any one of the cons has AIDS, Steve will eventually get it."

Amanda said: "And you don't want him around. Too dirty, huh?"

"You said it."

"Gee, I see all those HIV/AIDS patients you treat with compassion and care. Guess your son doesn't even count as one of those."

Jess erupted in anger: "Mark, if you're going to keep up this stupid charade instead of admitting that you're scared to death for him and desperately want him home, at least give me a chance to pull this off. Let me put you in a room with a security guard and say that you're incapacitated. I won't let him die in that godforsaken place."

Mark turned on Jess in anger. "How dare you assume you know what I feel, what I think! I told him not to go!"

"Mark," said Amanda, "we've been together too long. You love him and you know it. If you are too upset to go, fine, but don't prevent Jess from getting him back. You know as well as I that you want him home."

Mark finally sighed and said: "You win, Amanda. You know me too well. But he and I are going to have a long talk when this is over. I really can't take too much more of this. And, Jess, you're right about those trials. Let's go. That crew is probably here by now."

?

Pt. 6

Mark, Amanda and Jesse walked into the hospital lobby just as the crew from Channel 6 arrived. They approached the reporter, Marty Hauge, who said:

"Good afternoon, Dr. Sloan. I'm Marty Hauge from Channel 6 and my camera operator is Linda Tucker. Have you seen the reports? Are you aware of your son's capture and Waters' demands?"

"Yes, Mr. Hauge. I'd like you to meet Medical Examiner Dr. Amanda Bentley, and Dr. Jesse Travis, head of Community General's ER."

"Hello, Dr. Bentley, Dr. Travis. May I ask why you are here?"

Jess replied: "We're friends of the Sloans and we're here for moral support."

"All right. Dr. Sloan, Linda is ready. Let's go." Hauge raised his mike and, when the camera's light went on, said:

"This is Channel 6 news broadcasting from Community General Hospital in Los Angeles. I'm Marty Hauge and with me are Dr. Mark Sloan, father of Lt. Sloan, and Dr. Amanda Bentley and Dr. Jesse Travis, friends of the family. Dr. Sloan, are you aware that your son is a hostage and of the demands from Jonah Waters?"

"Yes, Mr. Hauge, I saw the broadcast from the prison."

"Are you going to comply with Waters' demands and go to Lancaster?"

"Yes, but I want Dr. Travis to accompany me. I'm too upset. Waters, if you're watching this, do you agree? Jesse will be of help in this. Call me at 213.555.6688 now."

In the prison, Waters looked at Steve and said: "Is your old man telling the truth? This Travis is a doctor and a friend? He's not really a cop?"

Steve replied: "Yes, Waters, he is a friend and he is a physician. He's a trauma surgeon and the head of the ER at Community General. If dad says that he's upset, he is. Let Jesse come. There won't be any funny business."

"There better not be." Waters picked up the phone and dialed the number Mark gave him. Mark's cell phone rang and he picked it up:

"Sloan. Waters, is that you?"

"Yeah, Doc. OK, bring the kid. No funny business or your son pays the price."

"There won't be any funny business. Thanks."

Hauge finished the interview: "Dr. Sloan, we know that you are anxious about your son's condition and would like to get to Lancaster as quickly as possible. We are making the Air6 news helicopter available to you. It will arrive shortly."

"Thank you, Mr. Hauge. I appreciate it, but I don't think that Waters will like anybody else with us."

"There won't be anybody in the chopper except you, Dr. Travis and the pilot. We are not interested a scoop. We only want you to have the fastest transportation possible."

"Thank you very much. Let's go to the helipad. I want to leave as soon as the helicopter arrives."

They relocated to the helipad just as the Air6 chopper landed. Mark finally turned to the camera and said:

"Waters, I'm on my way. I want to see him when we arrive. Then I'll take your proof and have it checked. If you are right, I'll see that it's fixed." Mark and Jesse got into the copter and it took off.

Hauge signed off: "There you have it, ladies and gentlemen. Dr. Sloan is en route to Lancaster. We return you now to Joyce McGill in Lancaster."

***************************

Inside the prison Waters and Johanson arose and left Steve to rest. They went into the exam area and began to talk and keep an eye on the coverage. Within thirty seconds another shot rang out. Johanson shuddered and shut his eyes for a moment.

"Who was that?"

"Joseph, probably."

**********************************

McGill heard Hauge send the story back to her, so she picked up her mike and turned to the camera.

"This is Joyce McGill reporting from California State Prison, Los Angeles County in Lancaster. We are awaiting the arrival of Dr. Mark Sloan, the chief of Internal Medicine at Community General Hospital, and the father of hostage Lt. Steve Sloan. Waters has told us that he will not communicate with us until Dr. Sloan arrives. Then he will tell us what to do. We'll take this time to recap for those who have just joined us. This morning, at 10:00, a second riot broke out at the prison here in Lancaster. Lt. Steve Sloan, from the Los Angeles Police Department, had just entered the prison and was taken hostage. Warden Johanson is also being held hostage, as are medical and secretarial staff. Lt. Sloan has been injured, but has assured this reporter that he will be all right. The response team from the Department of Corrections has secured the area outside the prison and we are in the middle of a standoff. We have heard two gunshots within the hour, but do not know who the victims were. Here is Dan Page, the negotiator for the state. Let's see if he'll give us a few minutes:

Mr. Page, can you answer a few questions for the viewers?"

"Yes, Ms. McGill."

"Mr. Page, do you know anything about these accusations of dishonesty in the clinical trials?"

"Ms. McGill, I know only that some of the prisoners were involved in a study for a new HIV treatment. Today is the first time that I have heard of irregularities in that study. The reports submitted by Dr. Harvey Lincoln, prison physician, indicated that the results are in line with the rest of the study groups. I'm afraid that I'll have to wait until this is over and Dr. Sloan's tests are complete. I can tell you that, if there are irregularities, the Department of Corrections will investigate and prosecute the guilty parties."

"Do you have any further information on Lt. Sloan's condition?"

"I know only what you know. We have called the medical unit, but Waters does not answer."

"Do you know anything about the gunshots?"

"No. Ms. McGill, I understand that everyone is interested in these events, but I have no other information. I will certainly give a press conference when I have information, and, of course, when the standoff has ended and the hostages are released."

"Thank you Mr. Page. We have been speaking with Dan Page, the negotiator for the Department of Corrections. I have just been informed that Peter Trent has prepared a profile of Lt. Sloan. We return you to the studio. Peter, are you ready?"

"Yes, Joyce. We have a short profile of Lt. Sloan, for you. Lt. Steven Sloan is a native Southern Californian. He was raised in Malibu and he and his father still reside there. Lt. Sloan was educated at UCLA and was a member of the football team for several years. He served in the Army in Vietnam in 1972. Following his discharge, he spent several years on the racing circuit and was moderately successful. He joined the police force sixteen years ago and rose quite quickly through the ranks to his present position as a homicide detective. His father, Dr. Mark Sloan, is a consultant to the Los Angeles Police Department and they have solved a number of high-profile cases. Several years ago, Lt. Sloan was almost killed in a violent attack, and his father unjustly convicted of murder, in a twisted tale of revenge and theft. Lt. Sloan has survived several other murder attempts. He has received numerous citations for bravery and courage under fire. He is known as a "straight arrow" and incorruptible. On the lighter side, Lt. Sloan, his father and a friend, Dr. Jesse Travis, are the owners of BBQ Bob's, a wonderful little restaurant. This reporter speaks from experience. Best ribs this side of Texas. For you ladies, the Lieutenant is still very single and very available. I have just had word that Dr. Sloan has arrived at the prison. We now return you to Joyce McGill in Lancaster. Joyce, can you hear me?"

"Yes, Peter. Drs. Sloan and Travis have just arrived. They are getting out of Air6 now and walking to the prison entrance. The guards are stopping them there. Mr. Waters, if you are watching, please contact me. Let us know what happens next."

Inside the prison Waters and Johanson arose and went into the hospital area. Waters said:

"Sloan, your old man is here. It's time. Johanson, call off the guards. You are going with us. No tricks or Sloan dies."

"Waters, I'm not likely to play games now. Make your call and then I'll talk to Page."

Waters picked up the phone and dialed McGill's phone.

"McGill, this is Waters. Sloan, Johanson and I are coming out to meet Dr. Sloan. We'll turn the evidence over to Dr. Sloan only. Tell Page to keep those tower guards under control. CHP better not interfere, either. Here's Johanson."

"Ms. McGill, this is Warden Johanson. Let me talk to Mr. Page." McGill handed Page the phone.

"Mike, this is Dan. Are you OK?"

"Yes. Dan, you know that Lt. Sloan was injured, but he should be OK. Sloan, Waters and I are coming out. Waters will have a shank at Sloan's back. No tricks, Dan. No shooting. Sloan will be carrying the evidence for his father and Dr. Travis. Let him be."

"Mike, I can ."

"Don't. Or you can explain to Dr. Sloan just why his son is bleeding to death in the yard. Then you can explain it to Sloan's boss. Then you can kiss your job good-bye. Besides, I think there's something to the accusations. Track down Assistant Warden Pike and Dr. Lincoln and sit on
them. We'll be out shortly."

"Right, Mike."

Within five minutes Steve, the warden and Waters exited the medical building. They walked through the yard to the entrance where Mark and Jesse were waiting. When they arrived, Mark began the conversation:

"Steve, are you OK? How badly are you hurt?"

"I'm not OK now, but I will be when you get back. The Suttons heard that I was the officer coming and the old man changed the plans. He was supposed to wait until the cop was with Waters before the starting the riot. He started early and grabbed me. He took me to another building and cut me enough to draw blood. He took a lamp cord and whipped me with it. He hit
me and kicked me."

Jesse interjected: "Steve, where?"

"Where do you think? Then he and his sons started to beat me with nightsticks. They were going to gang rape me and let anybody who wanted to get a cop have me. There was blood around."

"Son, were you?"

"No. They had me spread eagle on my stomach, stripped to my skivvies, and had just stopped hitting me with nightsticks; the old man had just put his hand on my shorts when Waters and his men broke in and stopped it. Waters sent me up to the medical unit where the medical technician dressed the cuts and lashes. I've been resting ever since."

"Steve," asked Jess, "Are you in pain?"

"Some. After you and dad head back to Community General, he'll let me have a painkiller so I can sleep until you return. I'm kind of drained."

"I'll bet."

"Jess, the envelope?"

"I remember, but only if it's necessary. It won't be."

"Son, what envelope?"

"Something I asked Jess to do for me if I were ever killed."

"Steve, please don't scare me."

"Don't worry about it. Somehow I believe Waters when he says that, as long as nobody tries anything, I'm not in danger."

Steve handed Mark a container of blood samples, instructions on the clinical trials, the results of the analysis of the pills the prisoners were receiving, and a list of prisoners and their medical files."

"Steve," said Jess, "what's in the other case of blood samples?"

"One from me and from each of the Suttons."

"I thought you weren't raped."

"I wasn't. Precaution. The shiv is what Sutton used to cut me. The blood is mine. I'm not quite sure what Waters expects you to find on it, but I think he wants it checked for HIV."

"Steve ." said Mark.

"I know, dad, but do it anyway."

"OK. We'll be back as soon as we can. What's your take on the accusations?"

"I think they might be true. Water seems awfully intent on your being involved and doing the analysis."

"Son, I want to talk to Waters."

Waters walked up to the gate and his eyes met Mark's. "Hi, doc. It wasn't supposed to be your son. It was supposed to be a narc."

"I know. We'll be back as soon as we can. Let him sleep, please."

"I will. He'll be OK. Nobody will hurt him. Anybody who wants to try goes through me and my men."

"What happens to you after this is over?"

"Ad Seg at least. Probably another five years. But it don't matter. I kept my word."

Just then a third shot rang out. Mark jumped and his eyes focused on Steve. "Jonah, what was that?"

"Payback. Don't worry, your son isn't the target."

"OK. Steve, we'll be back."

"I know, dad."

Mark and Jesse turned to leave, and then Mark looked back. Father and son exchanged looks. As always, they let their eyes do the talking, but Steve wasn't quite sure what he saw there. Mark was about to enter the helicopter when Captain Herrera approached him.

"Dr. Sloan ."

"Herrera, don't say anything. Just make sure that nobody gets trigger happy."

"All right."

Mark and Jesse entered the helicopter and it took off for Community General. Steve, Waters and Johanson re-entered the medical unit. As promised, Waters had the MTA give Steve a painkiller and he drifted off. Waters and Johanson sat near Steve's bed and talked.
?

Pt. 7

During Mark and Jesse's absence, Amanda waited in the doctors' lounge in order to keep abreast of the situation in Lancaster. She saw Mark as he stepped out of the helicopter. She caught a brief glimpse of Steve when he gave Mark the blood samples and paperwork. Amanda was sure that she saw a bandage on Steve's chest, and fear for his safety immediately overwhelmed her. She thought to herself:

"Bentley, get hold of yourself. You knew that Steve was injured; you should have expected the bandage. He looked tired, but OK. You know that you have to be calm. Mark is nervous enough for all of us. The tests will show that Waters is right, and Steve will come home. By the end of today, he'll be home where he belongs. I just hope that Mark is OK when he gets back. Maybe I'd better see Dr. Martines. Steve will probably need to talk with her. Maybe they both will."

Amanda left the lounge and went to Dr. Martines' office. She opened the door and found the doctor engrossed in the coverage. She smiled and said in a light voice:

"Aha! Everybody gets caught up in news stories like this. You know that the highest number of pizza deliveries was recorded on the day that the cops chased that white Bronco all over creation."

Martines turned and smiled: "Hi, Amanda. I can't help myself. Of course, I can say that I'm watching for medical purposes. Steve will probably need to talk when this is over."

"That's why I'm here, Elena. I'm sure that he will. You might have another problem."

"What?"

"In this case, who. Mark was really upset this morning and said that he'd never forgive Steve for going up there. I don't think he really means it, but there will probably be some friction between them. Jess and I will play peacemakers, but you might want to talk with Mark, too."

"Thanks for letting me know, Amanda. Steve is going to be troubled enough, I'd hate to have Mark upset and showing it. Those two support and strengthen each other."

"You're right." Amanda looked toward the window: "Elena, I hear the helicopter with Mark and Jesse. I'd better go to them. We have a lot of blood to analyze and the sooner we get at it the better. I'll talk to you later, when Mark and Jess go back to Lancaster."

"Bye, Amanda."

Amanda met Mark and Jesse at the helipad entrance to the hospital. Jesse carried the blood samples and paperwork from the prisoners in the clinical trials. Mark carried the samples from Steve and the Suttons and the shiv. When she saw two cases of blood samples, Amanda looked at Mark. He said:

"Later, Amanda. I want to get these to the path lab and start the analyses."

When they reached the lab Amanda started to unpack the prisoners' blood samples and Jesse sorted the medical files. Amanda asked:

"Mark, what are we looking for?"

"Some samples should show plasma HIV-1 RNA levels below 400 copies/ml. Some should show higher levels. Waters tells me that all of the samples will show the higher levels, because all of the participants are getting the placebo." Mark handed her a sheet of paper and said: "Here are the details of the trials."

Just before Amanda started the tests, she looked closely at the other case of blood samples and asked:

"Mark, what's in the other case?"

"Blood samples from Steve and the Suttons. The shiv is what Avery Sutton used to cut Steve."

"Mark, why do you need these?"

"Amanda, later."

"No, Mark, now. Why do you need them?"

Mark turned from her and Jesse answered: "Steve was almost raped. When the riot started the Suttons grabbed Steve. Waters and his men broke into the office where Sutton had taken Steve, just as they stopped beating him and just before old man Sutton started to rape him. Once the Suttons were finished, they intended to let other cons have him. Steve said that there was blood around."

"Oh my God." Amanda turned again to the prisoners' blood samples and started the analyses.

"Mark," said Jess, "I'm going to take these samples and the shiv to the lab. They'll be done before we leave."

"Thanks, Jess." Mark sat next to Amanda and said: "Amanda, run the tests twice. Make sure that you're right, especially if they don't show what Waters thinks."

"I intended to, Mark."

Jesse returned to the path lab where they waited for the results.

*****************************

While Steve slept, Waters and Johanson continued their conversation.

"Waters, when did you find out about this?"

"About two months ago. We didn't want to let on until we had some proof."

"Why not ask to see me?"

"For all we knew, you could have been in on it. You'd say all the right things but not do anything."

"Did you engineer the riot last week?"

"Of course."

"And Evans knew that you were going to rat him out."

"You're catching on. You ain't no slow, dumb warden," Waters answered with a grin.

"Thanks. I'd like to think that we're more intelligent these days."

Steve began to stir. He awoke and saw the faces of Waters and Johanson. He inquired:

"What time is it?"

Johanson answered: "2:30. Why?"

"Just wondering. I don't suppose that either of you has a candy bar?"

Waters replied: "Here. Are you hungry?"

"Yeah. Thanks, Waters."

"You're welcome, but don't eat it yet." Waters shouted for Jones and told him to bring in Steve's lunch. When Jones entered, Waters said:

"Fresh from the prison kitchen. Peanut butter and jam and a carton of milk."

Steve took the sandwich and said: "I like peanut butter and jam. Thanks."

Steve took a bite and said:

"What's going on outside?"

"Nothing," answered Johanson. "Don't worry, nobody's going to do anything. I've already told Page to let this play out. He's looking for Pike and Lincoln now. If the blood samples show what you say, Jonah, I'll make sure that they enjoy a vacation in one of our establishments." Just then another gunshot shattered the quiet and Steve shuddered.

Waters questioned: "Sloan, what's the matter?"

"I just keep thinking that it might not be one of the Suttons."

"It is. None of the prisoners wants this to fail. Funny, I thought that you'd be happy about this."

"Why? I want them to pay, but I'd be satisfied with, say, another fifty years on their sentences." Steve grinned.

Waters and Johanson laughed and Waters said:

"Oh, a funny man. Sloan, tell me something, didn't your instincts tell you that something wasn't quite right here?"

Steve finished the sandwich and unwrapped the candy bar. "Yeah. About fifteen minutes from here I got this weird feeling. After I arrived I was going to decide if I would interview you. I noticed that the lockdown had been lifted but decided to see you anyway. The guard had just admitted me when all hell broke loose. I wish I'd turned around."

Waters chuckled: "I'll bet you do."

Steve started to get up and Waters took hold of his shoulders and pushed him back. "Where do you think you're going?"

"The john, if you don't mind."

When Steve was back in bed, Johanson asked:

"Sloan, do the cuts and lashes still hurt?"

"Yes, but considering what was about to happen, they're nothing."

Waters picked up the remote and turned on the television. Peter Trent was just finishing a profile of Waters. Mark's picture came on the screen and Waters turned up the volume so they could hear:

"We now have a profile of Dr. Mark Sloan, chief of Internal Medicine at Community General Hospital and father of hostage Lt. Steve Sloan. Dr. Sloan was raised in Illinois and he settled in California after the War. His wife Kathryn died almost eleven years ago. Besides his son Steve, Dr. Sloan has a daughter Carol, who now lives in Seattle. Dr. Sloan has had a long and distinguished career. He has received Medical Society awards for excellence in medicine and numerous public service awards. He became a consultant to the Los Angeles Police Department about thirteen years ago and, with his son, has solved many high-profile murders. Several years ago, he was falsely convicted of murder following a brutal attack on his son, in a tale of revenge and greed. This reporter has followed the careers of the Sloans for many years and has come to admire their integrity. They also make the best ribs this side of Texas. We return you now to Joyce McGill at the prison in Lancaster. Joyce, have there been any new developments?"

Waters turned off the television and turned to Steve and said: "Your old man sure has a lot of respect in the community. What about you?"

"What do you mean?"

"Does he have your respect?"

"Yes. Also my love."

"Good."

Steve drifted off to sleep again, and Waters and Johanson turned the TV back on to watch the coverage.

******************************

The clock in the Community General pathology lab showed 5:00 p.m. Amanda had just finished the final test on the prisoners' blood samples. She looked up and said:

"Mark, I've tested each sample twice."

Mark inhaled deeply and turned to her. "Amanda, tell me."

"Mark, Jess, Waters was right. There is no way that the patients selected to receive the medication actually received it. I've checked and rechecked."

Jess said: "Do you think that the blood samples were from other people?"

"No. I checked that first. There's enough information in the paperwork for me to know that the samples are from the patients indicated. Mark, now what?"

Mark answered: "Jess, do we have the results from the tests on the blood samples and the shiv?"

Just as Mark finished the sentence, the lab telephone rang. Jesse picked it up and said:

"Path lab, Dr. Travis speaking. Fine. Have a tech bring the paperwork here pronto. Thanks. That was the head med tech in the lab. The other tests are finished and Steve is clean. They'll want to do a follow-up in six months. The tests on the Suttons came up clean, too. The shiv is clean but, even if it had been contaminated, the virus would have died before we could test it.
Steve will be fine, Mark."

Mark let out a breath and said: "Let's call Herrera. He's still up at the prison, but he can reach his men. Earlier today I heard him say that he was only interested in Steve's life. We'll see." He dialed the number for Herrera's phone and heard:

"Herrera. Who is this?"

"Jack, it's Mark Sloan. The tests are done and Waters is right. There is no doubt that the doctor has been withholding the medication from the prisoners. Since you're an outsider, get your men and anyone else you think can be trusted up there. I gave Waters my word that I'd fix this. You damn well better not let me down. I'm going to get the helicopter pilot now and take the paperwork back. Be ready. I want my son back in one piece."

"Mark, I'm ready. I've had men up here for some time. I have a buddy at CHP who will help. There are other 'straight arrows' in law enforcement besides Steve, you know. When you land and tell McGill about the results my men and about twenty CHP officers will take control of the towers and the rest of the prison. What about Steve's tests?"

"Nothing. They'll do a follow-up on Steve in six months, but there shouldn't be a problem, unless something goes wrong now."

"It won't. Waters respects you and he's given his word to the prisoners. He won't jeopardize this now. Besides, I don't think he's interested in hurting Steve. Bye, Mark."

"Bye, Jack."

The tech from the lab arrived with the paperwork on Steve and the Suttons just as Mark hung up. Mark gathered the papers together and put them in Amanda's briefcase and said: "Let's go find that pilot. I think he's waiting in the cafeteria."

They made haste to the cafeteria and found the pilot, the reporter Hauge and the camera operator Tucker. Mark said:

"We're finished. Waters was right. Hauge, what are you doing here? You're not going to try to come with me?"

"No, Dr. Sloan. I'm here to do a report for Waters. He's been watching and we want him to know that you're on your way. You'll give the information to McGill at the prison. Good luck. Let's go, guys."

They went to the helipad and Hauge spoke to Trent. Trent said to go ahead and Tucker turned on her camera:

"This is Marty Hauge, reporting from Community General Hospital. Dr. Sloan has finished the analysis of the blood samples from the prisoners. He and Dr. Travis will leave shortly to return to Lancaster. Dr. Sloan, are you ready?"

"Yes, Mr. Hauge. Jonah, we're on the way."

Tucker panned to show Mark and Jesse entering the helicopter. Then it lifted off and headed north. Hauge signed off and sent the coverage back to McGill.

?

Pt. 8

Waters and Johanson saw the broadcast from Community General and looked at each other. Waters said:

"Well, it's time for the verdict. When Dr. Sloan gets up here, make sure that your men don't go nuts."

"They won't. Just let Sloan go."

"I will."

"No matter what the results show?"

"No matter what. I know that his old man won't fake results. That's why I wanted him. I just know that he'll say that I'm right."

"Frankly, Jonah, so do I. I'm sure that Page has found Pike and Lincoln by now and has them tucked away nicely." Johanson gestured to Steve and said:

"Shall we wake him?"

"Yeah. It's time. He can dress and get ready to go home."

Waters gently awakened Steve and said:

"Your old man is on the way back. He'll announce the results to McGill when he gets here. Get up and get dressed. You're on your way home."

Steve arose and dressed. They went to the window to watch for the Air6 copter.

Outside the prison, Joyce McGill picked up the story:

"Ladies and gentlemen, Dr. Mark Sloan, father of hostage Lt. Steve Sloan, is returning to Lancaster. The tests have been completed and we will receive the information from Dr. Sloan. At that time, we expect Jonah Waters to release the hostages. I'm sure that Dr. Sloan is eager for the release of his son. If you have just gotten home from work and joined us, I'll recap the day's drama for you. At 10:00 this morning..."

Nobody saw Jack Herrera and his CHP buddy, Jim Hill, walk out of camera and microphone range. Herrera pointed to several CHP officers and said:

"When Sloan makes the announcement, you guys take down the tower guards. We don't want any of them to get trigger-happy now. This is almost over. Let's keep it bloodless. The rest of you, be ready to take over when Waters turns over control. For your ears only right now: Waters was right. Let's go."

Herrera and Hill had chosen their men well. They managed to get into position without being noticed, while everyone was watching the television coverage.

By the time the officers were ready, the Air6 chopper arrived. Inside the medical unit Steve, Waters and Johanson watched it land. Steve saw his father and Jesse get out and walk toward Joyce McGill. She turned to them and spoke:

"Dr. Sloan has just arrived and we're about to hear the results of the tests. Then we'll see the end to today's drama. Dr. Sloan, what did the tests reveal?"

"The results of the tests show that Waters was right. There is no doubt that the prisoners who were supposed to receive the pills containing the medication under study did not. I will pursue this until I know that Dr. Lincoln and anyone else connected with this are in custody. I will see them in a cell." Mark looked directly into the camera: "Jonah, I've done as you asked. You are right. Give me back my son." Mark then walked toward the entrance to the prison. Jesse hung back waiting to give Herrera the results of the tests.

Just as Mark released the test results Herrera signaled. As planned, his officers quickly and quietly took over the guard towers. The rest stood ready to enter the prison and bring the standoff to an end. Jonah turned to Steve and Johanson and picked up the phone. McGill heard her cell phone ring and she answered:

"This is McGill, Mr. Waters. You have heard Dr. Sloan. Will you now release Lt. Sloan and Mr. Johanson?"

"Yes. We'll be out shortly." Waters hung up and said to James and Jones: "Spread the word. We won. We're taking Sloan and Johanson out of here. They get out alive."

Johanson said: "Jonah, I stay. We'll take Sloan out and then go to my office."

"All right. Let's go."

By the time that they reached the door, James and Jones had returned with several of Waters' men. Waters said:

"We escort Sloan to the entrance so that he can leave. When he's outside our work will be finished and we surrender."

Nobody realized that a fifth shot was never fired. Nobody saw the prisoner hiding in the shadows. As they walked out the door the figure lunged at Steve with a bloody shiv. "Sloan, you finally pay. And pay big." Waters pushed Steve to James and Jones, and grabbed the final Sutton and struggled with him. He turned to his men and Johanson and said: "Get him out of here. NOW." Steve hesitated a second and James grabbed him just as several of Sutton's buddies came out of hiding. They were all carrying bloody bangers and rushed toward Steve. James, Jones and Johanson shielded Steve and ran with him toward the entrance. Herrera's men opened it as they arrived. They pulled Steve through and shoved the others out of harm's way. Herrera signaled and his men entered the grounds, rifles at the ready. Sutton's friends stopped and surrendered. One officer aimed his gun at Sutton, but before he could fire, Sutton stabbed Waters in the heart and he sank to the ground. The officer fired and Sutton fell dead. Steve had turned just in time to see it. He bowed his head and suppressed his emotions. Then he felt his father's touch and turned to him. Mark held Steve's shoulders and said:

"You're all right?"

"I will be."

Jesse had given Herrera and Hill the test results and joined Mark and Steve. Mark said:

"Let's go."

As they walked toward the helicopter, McGill approached them:

"Dr. Sloan, is ."

Suddenly she lowered her mike and turned toward the photographer who had turned the camera: "Not now. We'll hope that Dr. Sloan will talk to Hauge at the hospital. Let's leave them alone." She walked away and started a recap closer to the action.

Steve, Mark and Jesse got into the helicopter and, at 6:30 p.m., it lifted off. As the chopper flew back to Community General, Steve started to feel the effects of the day and his head drooped to Mark's shoulder. Steve noticed that his father allowed him to rest his head but stiffened, and Steve felt a chill. He closed his eyes.

*****************************

Just before the helicopter landed at Community General, Mark turned to Steve and woke him:

"Steve, we're here. Wake up."

Steve awoke and saw anger in his father's eyes, anger directed at him. The chopper landed and they alighted. Steve looked up and saw Amanda and Dr. Martines waiting for them. He walked to Dr. Martines and said softly:

"Help. I think I've lost him. Tomorrow?"

She replied: "All right. Jesse's going to keep you here tonight. I'll see you in your room tomorrow morning."

As Mark walked toward the hospital entrance, Hauge approached and said:

"How did it go?"

Mark walked by him and entered the hospital. Steve approached Hauge and said:

"Today has been particularly hard on my father. I'll answer your questions."

Hauge nodded and spoke to the studio. He signaled Tucker to bring the camera live and, when the red light was on, raised his mike:

"Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen. This is Marty Hauge reporting from Community General Hospital. Dr. Sloan, Lt. Sloan and Dr. Travis have just returned from Lancaster and the lieutenant has agreed to answer a few questions. Lt. Sloan, what happened when your father announced the results of the tests?"

"Police officers under the command of Captain Jack Herrera, LAPD, and Captain Jim Hill, CHP, took over the guard towers. Then they positioned themselves to take over the prison until the situation could be assessed. As Waters and Johanson started to take me to the prison entrance, one of the prisoners lunged at me with a bloody shank. Waters struggled with him. Then several other prisoners came at me. Two of Waters' men and Warden Johanson shielded me until we reached the entrance. After I was outside I turned back just as the prisoner stabbed Waters in the heart. He died immediately. I'd very much like to thank Channel 6 for allowing us the use of Air6. It was a great help in bringing this to an end."

"You're welcome, Lt. Sloan. We only wanted to help. Can you tell us what your father said to you upon your release?"

"Mr. Hauge, I won't answer that question. It is between my father and me."

"Lt. Sloan, our listeners heard several shots at the prison. Do you know what they were?"

"Yes, but I think that it would be better if the Department of Corrections releases that information."

"Will you at least tell us how you feel?"

"Mr. Hauge, I'm tired. I'm grateful to have survived. I want to thank my father, Dr. Travis and Dr. Bentley. If you'll excuse me, Dr. Travis is signaling to me."

"Good-bye Lt. Sloan. There you have it, ladies and gentlemen. I have just received word that Dan Page, negotiator for the Department of Corrections, will give a press conference in five minutes. We return you to Joyce McGill in Lancaster."

Hauge signaled the helicopter to return to the station; then he and Tucker headed for their car.

At 7:00 p.m., June 24, Jesse escorted Steve to the Community General ER in order to examine him. Steve looked for his father and noticed that Mark was not to be found. Amanda came up to him and said:

"He left immediately. Steve, he's angry."

"I know. I felt it on the way home. I've lost him."

"No, Steve," said Jesse, "I don't think so. He was angry this morning but also afraid for you. He did say that you and he are going to have a long talk."

"I don't think so, Jess. You didn't see the anger in his eyes when we got out of the chopper. I'm surprised that he even helped."

"Well, he said that he wouldn't, that he didn't care what happened to you," continued Amanda. "That little charade lasted for about thirty seconds, until Jess called his bluff. Steve, he still loves you. There will be some friction for a little while, but Jess and I will be with you. That's also why Dr. Martines met the helicopter with me. She'll help you through this. Mark, too. It might take a little time, but things will settle down."

"Maybe. Thanks. Jess, what kind of exam are you going to do."

"Everything. I know what you told us at the prison. Tell me the truth now. Were you raped?"

"No. That answer was the truth."

Jesse noticed that Steve's wounds were bleeding again. "Here, Steve, sit down. I want to change the dressings on the cuts and the lashes. Then I'm going to admit you."

"I won't fight you. I have nowhere else to go. Besides, Dr. Martines expects me to be here in the morning."

Steve felt light-headed so he lay back on the exam table. Jesse took his blood pressure and found it normal. He questioned:

"Steve, did you eat while you were being held?"

"Yeah, a sandwich, milk and a candy bar. Why?"

"I want to find out what's making you woozy. Did you lose much blood in the attack?"

"Some, but I don't know if it was enough to cause this. I think we can chalk it up to adrenaline."

Amanda entered with a wheel chair, and Jesse said:

"Sit. I'll take you upstairs and get you settled. Then I want you to eat."

"No food, Jess."

"Steve, you need something in you."

"I won't be able to keep it down. Don't bother."

"All right. I'll give you a light sedative and let you drift off. Tomorrow, though, I want you to eat breakfast."

As Steve sat down in the wheelchair he said: "Tomorrow, I will. Onward, James." Steve grinned.

"Yes, Sir, Lieutenant, Sir." Jesse grinned.

"Steve," said Amanda, "I'll be up in a minute. I have to call the kids."

"Okay. Say hi to them?"

"Of course."

Amanda called the kids and had a quick conversation. Then she left on her real mission. She went to the hospital parking garage and saw exactly what she expected. There, in his car, head on the steering wheel, sat Dr. Mark Sloan. She slid into the passenger seat and said:

"Congratulations. You've hurt him. Happy now?"

"Yes."

"Good. Now that you've played your little game of tit for tat you can go back in there, where you belong. He's in 234."

"Get out, Amanda. I'm going home."

"Mark, what is the matter with you?"

"Amanda, I fear for him whenever he leaves for work. He went so long without ever being hurt. Now, it seems that there's a crisis every year. Sometimes I wish he'd leave the Force. When I saw him come out of that prison . running for his life . God knows I'm glad he's home. And you were right earlier today. I could never have forgiven myself if I hadn't done the tests. I'm going to calm down and get some rest. Then Steve and I can start fresh tomorrow. I do want to have that talk, though."

"Mark, I told him that you were upset and wanted to have a long talk. He doesn't think it will happen. As he sees it, he's lost you."

"Amanda, please."

"All right. I'm going up to his room for a little while."

Amanda got out of the car and went back into the hospital. Mark started the engine and drove off the hospital campus.

?

Pt. 9

Amanda entered Steve's room before he drifted off. She pulled a chair next to the bed and sat:

"Hi, there. I thought you'd be asleep by now."

"Can't. I keep thinking about everything that happened. About fifteen minutes before I reached the prison, my every instinct told me that something was not right. I should have turned around but I thought to decide after I got there and talked to the guard. Then it was too late. No wonder dad hates me."

"Steve, he doesn't hate you. He's upset."

"Yeah, he made that perfectly clear when he woke me up in the chopper. His eyes, Amanda, his eyes."

"Steve, he was waiting in his car and we talked. He let his emotions take over and he played tit for tat."

"Is he still here?"

"He was until five minutes ago."

Steve shrugged: "That says it all."

At this point Jesse came in:

"Amanda, keeping the patient awake?"

"No, Jesse, trying to calm him down so he can fall asleep."

"Steve, do you need something stronger?"

"No, thanks Jess. Uh, Jess, could I stay with you for a few days after you release me?"

"Why?"

"I think that's pretty obvious. I've lost him."

"Steve," Jess replied, "don't worry about that now. Tomorrow's another day. You'll both be calmer and you can talk."

"Jess, please."

"Steve, of course you can stay with me, I just don't think that it will be necessary. Amanda and I will be here to see you both through this. It will be all right."

Steve yawned. "I don't see how. 'Night, guys."

They replied: "Good night, Steve."

Steve nodded and fell asleep. Jesse pulled a second chair close to the bed. He and Amanda decided to sit with Steve for a couple of hours. Then they would leave and return early the next morning.

********************

Mark Sloan pulled into his driveway at about 8:30. After he got out of the car, he picked up his mail, entered his home and went directly to his bedroom. He undressed down to T-shirt and skivvies and lay on the bed. He tossed and turned for about a half-hour and then fell into a fitful sleep. He awoke often, always thinking of his son, and he would remember Amanda's words to him: "As he sees it, he's lost you." Then he would think again: "I can't go back tonight. Tomorrow when I'm calmer, and the anger is gone." He finally got up, took a sedative and crawled into bed. He slept.

******************************

At 7:00 a.m. Mark Sloan's alarm went off. He reached to shut it off and his eyes drifted to the family pictures on his dresser. He arose, showered and dressed. He had a quick breakfast and picked up his brief case and a change of clothes for Steve. He decided that he would check his patients first and then spend time with his son. His mind wandered back to the previous night on the helipad. "I wonder what he'll say. I wonder if he'll even let me stay with him. Maybe I shouldn't have been so angry. I know it's his job. Maybe my little temper tantrum has done what I was sure his job would do . tear us apart." He shook his head slowly and left.

At that same hour, as Steve was awakening, nurse Enrique Fernandez entered room 234 with breakfast. He set the tray down and dropped the sides of the bed:

"Good morning, Lt. Sloan. I have a message from Dr. Travis."

"What?"

Fernandez raised the bed and set the tray in front of Steve, saying as he did so:

"He called about fifteen minutes ago. He asked me to tell you that he and Dr. Bentley intended to be back earlier this morning so they would be here when you woke up. They both overslept. He also said that you are to eat this breakfast, all of it. He should be here in about thirty minutes and
Dr. Bentley at about 8:00."

"Thank you. I think that I can manage the breakfast."

"Good, Lieutenant. I'll be back later. I have a couple of older patients that I need to check on."

"Fine. I'll be okay."

Steve thought to himself: "Jess must have ordered this. He's almost as bad as dad." He dropped his head and thought of his father. "Maybe I've finally done it. Maybe he's been frightened once too often. I wonder if he'll come today." He turned his attention to his breakfast: hotcakes, eggs, juice, milk and coffee. He was just finishing when he heard the door open. He looked up, hoping to see his father, and was mildly disappointed when Jesse entered.

"Hi, Jess. Thanks for breakfast. This was your doing, wasn't it?"

"Yes. I knew that you'd be hungry. You don't look overjoyed to see me."

"Jess, I am glad to see you. I was just hoping ."

"Just hoping that I was your dad."

"Yeah. I don't know why I cling to the hope that he'll come."

"Steve, he'll be here. Do you feel stronger, now?"

"Yes, a lot."

Steve and Jesse passed the time until about 7:55, when Jesse's pager went off. He stood up and said:

"Well, duty calls. Amanda should be here shortly. Dr. Martines said she'd come in at 9:00. Something about that time amusing you ."

Steve chuckled: "Yeah, she would. See you later?"

"Yes, Steve." Jesse left the room just as Amanda entered. She walked up to Steve and gave him a peck on the cheek:

"Hi, sailor."

"Sailor?"

"Well, you know how clichés are." With a twinkle in her eye and a grin on her face, Amanda continued:

"You'd rather I say 'Hi, pig?"

"Oink, oink," replied Steve with overwhelming sarcasm.

"Do you feel better this morning?"

"Yes."

"I intended to come back earlier so that someone would be here when you woke up. I'm sorry, Steve."

"The nurse told me. I understand. Thanks for coming now. When Jess came in, I was so hoping that it was dad, that I think I hurt Jesse's feelings."

"I doubt it, Steve."

"What did dad say last night?"

"Not much. I thought that I could talk him into staying with you, at least for a couple of hours. I was wrong."

"That's okay. Thanks for trying."

"Steve, Dr. Martines can help."

"She can help with the aftermath of the riot, but not even she can work miracles."

"Miracles? Did I hear someone ask for a miracle?"

Steve looked up and smiled: "Hi, Dr. Martines. Jess said that you were coming at 9:00, our favorite hour for a rendezvous."

"I was. When I came in this morning he saw me and said that you were upset. I thought that I'd see if you wanted to talk."

Amanda arose and took her leave: "I'll leave. You two should talk. Steve, take care; everything will be all right."

"Bye, Amanda. Thanks for trying last night and thanks for coming back."

The door swung shut and Dr. Martines inquired:

"Steve, what troubles you most, the riot or your dad's attitude? Did you fight?"

"We had a disagreement. He didn't want me to go. I felt I had to. But I had no idea that he was so angry with me. Just before we landed back here last night he woke me up, and you should have seen his eyes. When I was at my worst as a teenager and driving mom and him crazy, I never saw such anger in his eyes. Last night he left without saying good-bye and he's not here today."

"It's early, Steve. I'm sure that he'll be here. I do not believe that the man you told me about only a year ago would ever leave you alone. I told Amanda yesterday that you two strengthen and sustain each other."

"We always have. I love him. I just wonder if he still loves me."

Martines let that remark pass and continued: "Steve, is there anything about the riot you want to talk about?"

"Yes. It was horrible, at least at first. Remember the Suttons?"

"Oh, no. Did you run into them?"

"Worse. Did you see the coverage yesterday?"

"Yes, I admit that spent the whole day watching. What's that grin for?"

Steve wagged his eyebrows: "Well, well. Even you were caught up in it."

"Yes, Steve, even me. As I told Amanda, I was watching to keep tabs on you. I thought that we might see each other."

"Uh huh." Steve turned serious. "I'm glad you did. I don't have to explain what that was all about. What you don't know is that Waters intended that the cop would be a narc. He entrusted Sutton with starting that riot, but only after the cop was in the administrative offices. When Sutton found out that I was coming, he changed the plans. He started the riot early and grabbed me. He and his sons took me to an office and cut and beat me and intended to gang rape me. Once they had finished, they were going to let anyone who wanted me have me. If I got out alive, I'd be a mess. I doubt that even you could have brought me back from that. I was lucky that Waters found me when he did."

****************************

While Steve was talking with Dr. Martines, Mark entered the hospital and walked right into Jesse and Amanda. Jesse said:

"I'm glad you're here, Mark. When are you going to see Steve?"

"Later, Jess. I have a few patients to see. Then I thought I'd spend some time with him."

"Are you still angry?" asked Amanda.

"No, but I think that it's too late. Is he still hurt?"

Amanda responded: "Yes, but he thinks he's responsible for the friction. Mark, you hurt each other. You have to talk it out. Just so you know, Jesse and I will be on you two until you settle it. What's in the sports bag?"

"Just a change of clothes. I thought that he might want clean clothes to go home in. Maybe it will help purge the terror so it won't haunt him. You are going to release him today, aren't you, Jess? I mean, there's nothing physically wrong?"

"Good idea, Mark," replied Jesse. "Yes, I'll release him later. He's afraid that he won't have a home to go to."

"Damn."

Amanda continued: "Mark, Dr. Martines got here early today and she's with him now. I think that you should see your patients and then go to him. Once you two have talked, he should have an easier time recovering."

"You're right, Amanda. Did you say 234?"

"Yes."

Mark left on his rounds.

***************************

Dr. Martines took hold of Steve's shoulders and said:

"You have no more physical injuries than what you described?"

"No. As I said, once Waters found me it wasn't too bad. You never really know what will happen in these riots, but I wasn't in too much danger. I'm glad that dad helped; it really ticks me off that someone was sabotaging the study. It's a slap in the face to everybody who needs that medication. I'm glad that it's dad who will testify because he won't get rattled on the stand. The doctor and the assistant warden will get theirs and I hope they fry." Steve started to raise his voice: "If they hadn't been selling the medication, I wouldn't have been in there. I wouldn't have seen the Suttons. I wouldn't have been beaten. I wouldn't have almost been raped."

"Steve!"

"Wow! I didn't know that was inside me."

"You've been through a day of terror. Even though you were safe most of the day, you didn't know what would happen. Something could have gone wrong; something almost did. I saw the end when you had to run. Who was the prisoner Waters struggled with?"

"The youngest Sutton son. I'm really sorry that Jonah Waters was killed. He was a con, but he commanded respect, even mine. He gave his word that I wouldn't be hurt and kept it."

As Steve finished his sentence there came a knock on the door. Dr. Martines looked at Steve: "Expecting anyone?"

"No." He perked up: "Maybe it's dad. But why would he knock?"

"Maybe he saw Amanda and knows that I'm here. I'll let him in and then leave. Take time to talk. I think that you two can settle this today. Call me afterwards. We'll set up another appointment. Good-bye."

"Bye."

Martines arose and went to the door just as a second knock sounded through the room. She opened it to Steve's father and smiled at him. She whispered:

"You're here, good. Talk. I think you two can settle this."

Mark whispered back: "Thanks," and entered the room.

Steve looked up and saw his father enter. He flashed a tentative smile and said:

"Hi."

"Hi. Want some company?"

"Yeah. Can you stay?"

"Yes, all day if you'd like."

As Mark entered, Steve motioned him to the bed, and moved over to give him room to sit. Father and son shared a silent moment and blurted out in unison:

"I'm sorry."

"Steve, I was wrong to be so angry. I know it's your job."

"That's all right. I shouldn't have gone, but I thought that if Waters really had information, we could solve the Kingston murder. I really wanted to solve it."

"Son, why was it so important?"

"Don't you remember all the headlines when we finally had to make the case inactive?"

"You mean those potshots at me? Did they really upset you?"

"Well, they did then. I can't say that I've lost sleep over them since, but as long as there was a chance we could solve it, I thought I'd take it."

"Steve, if I'd had any idea. Newspaper headlines don't bother me. None of that is important. Don't worry about it anymore. When I talked to Jess he said that you're afraid you don't have anyplace to go. How about home?"

"When?"

"As soon as Jesse signs your release papers."

"How about now?" They both laughed.

"Steve, something still bothers me. Please hear me out because your life depends on it."

"What?"

"Your instincts. You told me that Waters probably wouldn't talk and that he 'd never turn anyone in. Didn't your instincts tell you that something was not right? Please, Steve, tell me the truth."

"They're working just fine. When I was fifteen minutes away from the prison I got a really weird feeling. Something told me to turn around but I ignored it. I won't do it again."

"Whew! Good! That's part of what had me so upset. I was afraid that your instincts had dulled, and that you would be at a disadvantage on the streets. Steve, can you tell me what really happened in there? What were the gunshots for?"

"I told you about the riot. Sutton's sons grabbed me and forced me into an office in another building. I guess he figured that nobody would find us. They stripped me down to my shorts and . and touched me. They started beating me and it felt worse than last year. I kept thinking what would happen when they'd finished and let other cons have me. Then I felt . I felt . Dad, I can't finish it."

"That's okay. But you should talk with Elena."

"I will. I'm supposed to call her later and make an appointment. Before Sutton could do much more than beat me, Waters stopped it. Once I was in his custody, I was pretty safe. What most people don't know is that Waters put a contract on the Suttons."

"A contract? You mean to kill them?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"I didn't know about it until he got to the medical unit. He told me that it was because Sutton betrayed the prisoners by trying to get me. He wouldn 't look at me, though, so I asked him if there were other reasons. All he'd say was: 'I owe your old man. Leave it at that.' He never said any more about it. What did he mean?"

"Do you remember me telling you that I treated his wife?"

"Yeah."

"You were at the Academy at the time. She had stomach cancer that had metastasized throughout her body. She was very close to death and she asked me if I could arrange it so he could be with her at the end."

"And he was in prison?"

"Yes. I called a few friends and managed to get him released. He had to have a guard but we could at least get him to her. I told him when I saw him that I expected him not to betray her. He said that he would play it straight and he did. You should have seen them. For three days, he stayed here. He was able to hold her as she died."

"How high did you have to go to pull that off?"

"Not very."

"The gunshots were the other prisoners getting the Suttons. Dad, there's something else. I said something when I was talking with Dr. Martines that scared me."

"What, son?"

"I said that I was glad the you did the tests and would be testifying, because you wouldn't get rattled on the stand. I said that I knew that Pike and Lincoln would get theirs and that I hoped they would fry. Dad, that scares me."

"Steve, you were terrified yesterday and you came very close to being killed. You're recovering now, and you're upset. You have a right to be angry. I don't think that you mean it."

"Dad, last year, after the kidnapping, I didn't say anything like that. Am I becoming a bad cop?"

"No, son." Mark was about to expand on his thoughts when the door opened and Capt. Herrera asked:

"Hi, Steve, Dr. Sloan. May I come in?"

"Yes," Steve replied. "Is everything settled at the prison?"

"Yes, Steve. Pike and Lincoln are in custody and the DOC is starting a huge investigation. Nobody's giving out information on who killed the Suttons. Here are your gun, ID, badge and cell. When do you think you might return to duty?"

Mark responded: "The cuts and lashes should be pretty well healed by Monday."

Herrera said: "That's fine. I'll leave you, I just wanted to return your things."

"Captain," said Steve, "thanks. Thanks for masterminding the takeover of the prison, too. I have to ask you something."

Mark turned and said: "Steve ."

"Dad, please. If he tells me it's okay, I'll drop it."

"All right, son."

"Tell you what is okay, Steve?"

"Earlier today I was talking with Dr. Martines. I mentioned that I was glad that dad would be the witness in the trials of Lincoln and Pike. I said that they would get theirs and then I said that I hoped they would fry. I didn't know that was in me."

"Steve," answered Herrera, "that worries you? Why?"

"Why? Cops aren't supposed to say things like that. We're supposed to make the arrests and trust the legal system to provide the justice."

"Steve, it is all right. You were once again the victim of the Suttons because of Lincoln and Pike. You are justifiably upset. You're also not the first cop who has said something like that. We all do it. The difference between you and everybody else is that you've said it once, and only when you were the victim. Don't worry about it. I know that when you return to duty, you'll be the same cop you were before. I'm going to leave now and let you and your dad have some time together. Call me Sunday night. Good-bye."

Mark walked Herrera to the door and said: "Jack, I'm sorry for the way I acted yesterday. Please chalk it up to the father in me and forgive me."

"Mark, not to worry. I'd say the same thing if it were one of my sons. Take care of him. We can't afford to lose him."

"I will. Thank you for making sure that nobody got trigger-happy."

"My pleasure. Bye."

After Mark had returned to him, Steve asked:

"What was that about?"

"I popped off to him yesterday. He was trying to comfort me and I wasn't having it. I owed him an apology."

"What's in the sports bag?"

"Change of clothes. Why don't you wash up and dress. Just be careful of the dressings. Toss your clothes from yesterday in the trash can."

"Dad, they're ."

"I know. Indulge me. I have this idea that getting rid of the clothes might help you purge the terror."

"Okay, dad. Thank you."

Steve emerged from the bathroom in about fifteen minutes. He picked up the phone and dialed Dr. Martines' office. After a short conversation, he hung up and turned to his father. "Nine tomorrow morning. May I come in with you?"

"Steve, I would be glad to have you with me. I was afraid that I'd lost you."

"I was afraid that I'd lost you."

Jesse entered with Steve's release papers and a wheelchair.

"Steve, you can go. Take it easy for a couple of days until the cut is healed. You can probably return to work Monday."

"Thanks, Jess." Steve looked at the wheelchair and said:

"You'd think I'd be used to this."

As he sat down Mark said: "Let's go home."


Pt. 10

Mark pulled into the driveway and he and Steve entered their beachfront home, their refuge. When they reached the top of the stairs they stopped and turned to each other. Steve spoke first:

"Dad ."

"Steve, let it go. I have."

Then, in the privacy of their home, father and son embraced, and, in that embrace, put their disagreement behind them.

Steve went toward the kitchen and said:

"Dad, are you hungry? I am."

Mark nodded and within fifteen minutes they were enjoying a meal on their sun-drenched deck. They spent the afternoon talking, and when Jess and Amanda arrived for dinner, they would never have known that Mark and Steve had been at odds. The evening ended at 9:00.

*********************

Steve and Mark were up and out by 7:30 Wednesday morning. They arrived at the hospital around 8:15. Mark was called to the ER immediately to deal with the aftermath of a pileup. Steve wandered into the Pathology Lab to see Amanda.

"Hi, Amanda. No murders?"

"Not yet. Just wait ten minutes."

"Yeah. Thanks again for what you did. For taking care of dad and for helping me."

"Steve, you're welcome. Now, forget it. When's your appointment with Dr. Martines?"

Steve shrugged: "9:00, when else?"

Amanda chuckled and responded: "I should have known."

Amanda was not called away and they passed the time until 8:55. Steve took his leave and headed for Dr. Martines' office. He walked in at 8:57 and was greeted by a smile from Eva Jackson, Dr. Martines' nurse:

"Good morning, Lieutenant. You look good, although I would rather have seen you under different circumstances."

"Yes, we have to stop meeting like this," Steve grinned in response.

Jackson groaned and told him that Martines was waiting for him. Steve opened the door to Martines' office:

"Good morning, Dr. Martines."

"Good morning, Steve. Sit. Here's your tea."

"Thanks. However, I'm not quite as bad off this time."

"Did you and your dad settle it?"

"Yeah. I found out that he still loves me."

"I didn't realize that you really doubted that."

"I did for a little while. After we got home yesterday, we settled it in our own way."

"Yes, I'm sure it was in your own way. Now, how are you today? Are you still troubled about saying that you hope that Lincoln and Pike fry?"

"Not as much. I'm not proud that I said it, but Captain Herrera came to see me yesterday. I told him about it and he said that I'm not the first and I won't be the last. He said not to worry because at least I had a reason. By the time I return to work, I'll be all right."

"Good. I'm glad that Herrera could help. Is there anything bothering you?"

"Yes, the time when the Suttons had me. I tried to explain to dad how I felt but I couldn't finish the sentence. They were beating me and I was thinking about what was going to happen and the diseases that the cons would probably give me. Then I felt . I felt old man Sutton's hand on my shorts. There, I finally got it out."

"Why was it so hard to say?"

"He was going to rape me. Thinking about him touching me makes me sick. It makes me sicker to think of them and who knows how many other cons getting their jollies by hurting me."

Steve arose and went to the window. After about five minutes he turned around. Dr. Martines was still sitting there, waiting.

Steve smiled and continued: "I'll finish it today. Now I know how the rape victims I've had to take reports from felt. Sutton was stopped before he got started and I feel dirty. I've washed and I still feel dirty. I wish I could take a shower."

"Steve, it's not your fault."

"I know. My head knows it. I just wish my gut knew it. I wish I could stand in front of Lincoln and yell at him for causing this."

"Ah, finally."

"You didn't already know that was the problem?"

"I thought so, but you know I won't let you off without saying it. How long before you can shower?"

"I think dad's going to look at the cut tonight. If it's healing, I think he'll let me shower tomorrow."

"Good. When you get home, why don't you write Lincoln a letter?"

"A letter? Why, he'll never get it."

"It doesn't matter. Just tell him what you think of him. Then bring it to me the next time you come. Steve, it will make you feel better."

"I'll try it." Steve looked at his watch. "Well, it's noon. I suppose that our time is up."

"You know that you can stay if you want."

"No, dad and I are going to Luigi's for lunch. Do you have time on Friday?"

Martines checked her appointment book. "Steve, it seems that I have an appointment at 9:00."

Steve showed his disappointment. "For all three hours?"

"Afraid so. Some patient named Sloan." She looked up with a very big grin on her face.

Steve laughed: "Two points for you. Some patient named Sloan indeed! See you."

"Bye, Steve."

************************

Steve and Mark returned home at 6:00 p.m. During the evening meal, Mark began the conversation:

"Steve, how was your appointment?"

"It went very well. I could finally say what I couldn't say to you yesterday."

"I'm glad, son. Do you want to talk about it?"

"Yes, but after dinner."

They finished and adjourned to the living room.

"Dad, what do you want to know?"

"Everything. Do you think that you can finish the sentence?"

"Yeah. They were beating me and I was thinking about what was going to happen and the diseases that the cons would probably give me. Then I felt . I felt old man Sutton's hand on my shorts. Thinking about him touching me makes me sick. It makes me sicker to think of him and his sons, and who knows how many other cons, getting their jollies by hurting me. Dad, please let me shower tomorrow. I still feel so dirty."

"Steve ."

"Dad, don't worry. My head knows it wasn't my fault. It's my gut that's the problem. It'll be better when I can shower."

"Steve, let's go downstairs and I'll check your cut."

When they reached Steve's bedroom, Steve took off his shirt. Mark took off the bandage and looked.

"Steve, it looks pretty good. Why don't you shower now and I'll dress it again. Use tepid water and don't aim the full force of the spray on it."

"Thanks, dad." Steve wagged his eyebrows and continued: "Once again I thank my lucky stars that I picked a doctor for a father." Father and son laughed. Steve went into the bathroom and reappeared fifteen minutes later drying his hair. Mark dressed the wound. Steve lay on his bed and motioned for Mark to sit.

"Thanks, dad. Would you mind if I went to sleep?"

"No, son. Sleep well. Call me if you need me. What are you going to do tomorrow?"

"Write a letter. I told Dr. Martines that I'd really like to tell Lincoln off. She said to write a letter and give it to her. She said it would help."

"Good idea, Steve. Good night."

"Good night, dad."


Pt. 11

Steve awoke at 7:00 on Thursday, June 27 and went upstairs to see his father. Mark handed him an omelet and said:

"Hi. Better?"

"Yes. No nightmares."

"Good. Do you want me to stay?"

"No. Go ahead. I have a letter to write and then I thought I'd go to the restaurant."

"OK. See you at lunch?"

"Sure."

Mark left and Steve sat at the computer. After a few false starts, Steve decided that he would actually "write" the letter. He went to the drawer and pulled out pad and pen. He wrote and wrote, words flowing in an almost never-ending stream. He put the final period on the letter, signed it and put it in an envelope. Dr. Martines was right. He felt much better. He
put the breakfast dishes in the dishwasher and left for BBQ Bob's. It was a busy morning so he was happy for the break when Mark, Amanda and Jess arrived for lunch.

"Steve," said Amanda, "feel better today?"

"Yes, much. I followed Dr. Martines' advice and wrote a letter to Lincoln telling him how I feel. She said it would help and it does. I think I'll be okay. Tomorrow should be the last appointment. Are you guys busy tomorrow night?"

"No," replied Jesse and Amanda in unison.

"Come for dinner? I'll cook and we'll have a party."

"Sure. Who's coming?"

"Just us, and Dr. Martines and her husband, I hope."

Mark stood up and said: "Guys, we have to get back. Steve, I'll see you tonight. We'll have dinner at Pepe's and then catch a movie."

"Fine. Bye, guys."

That evening, Mark and Steve enjoyed dinner and a comedy film. When they returned home Mark said:

"Steve, you really are better. I can see it in you."

"Yes, I really am. I'm also tired."

"Steve, will you go in with me, tomorrow? After your session, you can take my car and I'll come back with Jess."

"Sounds good, dad. Good night."

"Good night."

**********************

Friday, June 28, Steve and Mark arrived at the hospital at 8:15. It was quiet so Steve stayed in the ER and they passed the time. At 8:55 Steve entered Dr. Martines' office. She handed him a cup of tea and told him to sit.

"Steve, do you have the letter?"

"Yes, here." As he handed it to her he said: "You were right, writing it did help. How did you know? Oh God. Oh, no."

"What?"

"Last year, when I asked if you'd ever had to talk about something that terrified you. You said yes. You were raped, weren't you? Sorry, it's none of my business."

"That's all right. Yes, Steve, many years ago."

"At a time when the cops were part of the problem."

"Yes. But it's long past. Now, close your eyes."

"Why?"

"Just do it. Picture in your mind's eye Dr. Harvey Lincoln. He's white, about 6'5". He has brown eyes and black, graying hair. He's about 55 years old and weights about 250. He has a round face and a handlebar mustache. Can you see him?"

"Yes."

"Now, open your eyes and read your letter to him."

Steve took the letter back from Martines' hand and, in a voice growing louder with each sentence, read:

"Dear Lincoln. You bastard! How could you have done it? How could you have violated everything you're supposed to stand for? You sabotaged clinical trials that people were counting on, for money! How could you! How could you be so heartless! People were counting on that study and now you've probably invalidated it. And you almost got me raped and killed. It still makes me sick to think about being raped. It makes me sick to think about all the pain and fear. It makes me sick to think about how I almost lost my dad because of you. You! And your greed! You could have quit if you wanted more money! But no, that would have been too easy! I hope you rot in the joint for this. I hope you live the rest of your life wondering if you're going to get a shiv in your gut. I hope you live the rest of your life wondering if a bunch of cons are going to jump you and beat you to death. Steve Sloan."

As Steve finished the letter his anger visibly subsided. He sank back into his chair and started to drink his tea. Martines questioned:

"Tired?"

Steve shook his head slowly: "Yes. But I feel better. Just getting it out was enough. I can put it behind me now. Thank you so much. I wish that I could do something for you."

"Steve, just be a good cop. When you return to work on Monday, find a good murder to investigate and let Narcotics make its own busts from now on."

Steve chuckled and replied: "Deal. I wish Waters hadn't died."

"Steve, he died as he would have wished. He gave his word to those prisoners and to you. That meant everything to him, just as yours does to you. Don't dwell on it. It's over."

"Yeah, it's over. Can you and your husband come to the beach for a party tonight?"

"Yes, we wouldn't miss it. What time?"

"7:00."

Steve stood up to leave and Martines stood as well. "Good-bye, Steve." They shook hands and smiled. Steve left the office and went to find Mark, Amanda and Jess. He found them in the lounge, a feast from BBQ Bob's waiting. After lunch Steve left and went shopping for dinner. That evening the Sloan house was filled with good food, good company and laughter.

That same evening, Harvey Lincoln entered his cell and found a tape recorder on his bunk. He pressed the play button and shuddered at what he heard.

The clock on the Sloan mantel rang the hour of 10:00 p.m. and the party broke up and the guests departed. Steve and Mark cleaned up and went to bed.

*****************************

Steve arose at 8:00 on Saturday, June 29th. He entered the kitchen and found his father waiting for him. Steve said:

"Dad, I had the strangest dream last night."

"Tell me."

"I dreamed that Lincoln heard my letter. He couldn't have, but . Oh well, it's over and I'm starved. Let's eat!"



End

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