Past & Present Collide

Renee Palmer sat back in her seat and stretched lithely like a cat. She grimaced as she felt the muscles stretching; it was only 10am, way too early to have been at work for several hours. I thought CEOs were supposed to have the perks, she groused to herself. Her thoughts were interrupted as her assistant walked in. Renee's eyes narrowed - she had noticed the package in Fiona's hands - that was odd. She very rarely got bulk mail anymore, it was antiquated.

Fiona handed her the package; Renee with a wave of her hand and a grin dismissed her. Curious, she tore open the paper the package was wrapped in. It contained a small box and a small envelope that obviously contained a card. Intrigued Renee used her fingernail to delicately slice the tape holding the box lid down. Carefully she prised open the lid and looked inside the box. Her curious expression drained from her face to be replaced with one of shock and horror. Inside lay an artificial silk flower; a rose to be precise, the bud cut from the stem. "No, it can't be. He's dead - they said he was dead!" With a sinking feeling she opened the card.

Sweet Renee. How things change.
Did you miss me? Did you think of me?
I'll be seeing you... Soon.

A noticeable strain in her voice, Renee called out for Fiona. Short moments later her assistant arrived. With the tone that only an old friend can safely use, she said, "What now, Renee? I just left." The joking tone fled from her voice as she saw the shaken look on Renee's face. Fiona's eyes dropped to the package on Renee's desk and all the blood drained from her face. "No, that can't be right! This is someone's idea of a sick joke!"

Renee wordlessly held out the card; she didn't let Fiona touch it, the likelihood of a DNA match from skin cells on the card was slim, but there was a slim chance nonetheless. Fiona read the message and she swore softly.

"When I find out who lied to us I'll kill them, I swear to God! Give me two minutes and I'll have security personnel stationed here while I call in the police."

She turned to walk away but Renee grabbed her arm to prevent it. Determinedly she said, "No! No police. I'm not going to live my life in a bubble, not again. I'll deal with this." Fiona eyed her with concern. She tried her best to get Renee to reconsider but, as usual, Renee wore her down. Damn, the woman was as stubborn as an ox.

She did ring a couple of concessions out of Renee though, having also suffered through this before she had that right. Renee agreed that all mail from 'him' would be stored in a secure place in the office. When - not if - it came time to turn it over to the police it would be given over with no objections on Renee's part - damn her privacy.

Also, Renee agreed to check in with Fiona at specified times during the day. If she missed two scheduled check-ins in a row Fiona could call in the police. That settled Renee left the office; she needed to clear her head and do some investigations of her own. Damn it, why now? Her life was complicated enough right now - juggling Doors International, working ostensibly with the Taelons and working with the Resistance - she didn't have time for this!

One Month Later

Augur looked up from the console he was working when he heard the elevator doors opening. He quickly pasted one of his sardonic expressions on his face - no need to let them know he had been worried. Then he noticed the silence; Oh great, they're fighting again!

"So guys, how did it go?"

Renee looked through him as though he wasn't even there. Liam sighed; he gave Palmer a pointed glance as he responded to Augur's query with an assurance that all was well. They'd broken into the facility and rescued the Resistance members being held there. By this point in time, the people rescued were being moved to a new safe house; they'd be relocated within twenty-four hours.

Renee excused herself and left to go home. She stalked to the elevator and soon disappeared from view. Liam sighed and scrubbed his hands tiredly over his face. Augur tried to lighten the mood. "Well, I see you've had a fun two days. Has she been like that the whole time?"

Liam gave Augur an irritated look. "Augur what is wrong with you? She's been like that for a month! Haven't you noticed?!"

Augur sighed; the kid still didn't get it. "Liam, I still don't know her that well. She may be Resistance, but aside from Resistance matters she's never talked to me if she didn't need something from me. People talk to you, people trust you. I'm not like that. She talks to you; she occasionally even listens to you! You're a friend; I'm only an acquaintance. As a friend, trust you instincts. What are they telling you?"

Liam's worried eyes looked directly into Augur's. He said softly, "She's more than just distracted Augur; she's scared..."

Augur put the rest of it together, the stuff Liam was saying without words. ...And that scares you doesn't it? You're not ready to lose somebody else. Julia, Amanda, Hayley, Lili and Beckett. You're scared you're going to lose Renee too. What Augur actually said was, "Then be her friend. Give her space; let her know you're there for her if she needs it. When she's ready she'll talk to you. She does trust you, kid."

One Week Later

The sound of the argument reverberated around the office.

"I told you, no! No police!"

"Then at least tell Major Kincaid! You spend enough time with him; you're close, let him help," pleaded Fiona.

"I'm handling it!"

Fiona sighed as she watched Renee storm out of her office. Sure you are, Renee. You're pale; you've lost weight. You jump at shadows. For five weeks now - five weeks - you've received a message from this psycho every Wednesday. He almost killed us both last time. I know you're stronger now but you can't do this alone! You need help - you need a friend. Kincaid has a shoulder to lean on, use it! He's worried sick and he doesn't know anything other than you're in pain and he wants to help! For once in your life admit that you need someone else.

Fiona grabbed her bag and hurried after Renee. At the very least she could drive Renee home. She made her way to the Executive car lot and looked around for Renee. Where was she? Fiona delved into her bag and pulled out three items, her global, a personal alarm and her gun. Dropping the bag as superfluous, she began to slowly stalk the length of the lot. To her left she heard a muffled sound - it sounded like there was a struggle going on. Taking a deep breath, she moved closer. Her heart stopped at the sight that greeted her.

She pressed the button to activate the alarm and she raised her gun. In a furious voice she cried, "Get away from her, you son of a bitch!"

The masked figure whirled round and just for a second relaxed his hold on Renee. That was all the opportunity she needed, and she crawled away to relative safety. The figure raised his gun and shot out the light, Fiona lost sight of him in the darkness that fell. Swearing furiously, she opened her global and called the police.

Less than twenty minutes later Doors International HQ was swarming with police. The CEO of one of the most powerful companies on Earth had been attacked; the word had come down from on high: do whatever was necessary to resolve the situation. The detectives had been met with a ferocious personal guard in the shape of Fiona Smith, Ms Palmer's assistant. When she had shown them the mail Ms Palmer had been receiving they understood why. This was going to get worse before it get better. One of the detectives, an older man in his fifties, was trying to find out if there was anyone they could call for Renee; someone who could stay with her. Holding a blanket round her shoulders that had been supplied by the paramedics that had treated her cuts and abrasions, Renee shook her head no.

Fiona, from the other end of the room, heard this. Ignoring the look she got from Renee she called out, "Call Major Kincaid at the Taelon Embassy in Washington DC. They're very close friends. He'll stay with her."

The call was placed and moments later the distinctive sound of a Taelon shuttle was heard. Liam's voice could be heard in the outer office as he identified himself and demanded to see Renee. He stalked into the office and looked round. Spying the huddled form of Renee curled up in a chair his expression softened. Quietly he called out her name. Renee looked up to see Liam hold out open arms. That silent invitation was her final undoing. She ran into his arms and as she felt them close round her, to hold her safe and secure, her barriers finally crumbled; she began to sob. Liam simply held her closer. The room emptied of people to give them some privacy. Liam manoeuvred them onto one of the large leather reclining chairs. He pulled Renee down to nestle on his lap; explanations could wait. They'd stay there till she was ready to talk.

"Renee... Renee, are you ready to talk to me yet?"

He felt her nod against his shoulder and murmur something softly. Bending down, he placed a gentle kiss on her brow.

"Fine, not here. You can't go home, that's obvious, so where do you want to go? An hotel, Augur's, the Embassy, my place? Fine, my place."

Liam gently eased himself from the seat. He pulled off his long leather coat and wrapped it round Renee. Softly he told her to compose herself as best she could while he went out to talk to the police.

At first, the police were reluctant to let her leave without an escort, but Liam pointed out that he and Renee were going to be flying to the Washington Embassy in his shuttle. It was a totally secure form of transportation. At the Embassy they would pick up a Volunteer escort till they reached his apartment. The police were free to station guards outside, but as he was going to have Volunteers stationed there too, it would seem to be a bit redundant. Better use could be made of police time by catching the person responsible for the attack.

None of the police personnel had raised any further protest. As for Fiona, she just grinned. Finally, Renee was letting someone in!

Liam returned to the office to fetch Renee. They left, Liam's arm tight around Renee's shoulders, holding her close, shielding her from view.

Forty minutes later they reached Liam's apartment.

Renee asked to use his shower; she needed to feel clean.

Fifteen minutes later found her sitting on Liam's couch, dressed in a pair of jogging pants and one of his wool sweaters, the arms rolled up at the sleeves. Liam sat opposite her, concern written plainly on his face.

"Are you ready to tell me?"

Renee sighed, but raised her eyes to meet his. She nodded. Voice husky, she said, "It's a long and messy story, Liam. Bear with me.

"You met Fiona tonight. She's far more than just an assistant; she's one of my oldest friends. We met at MIT - in fact, we were college roommates. We were the proverbial chalk and cheese; she came from money, I was there on a full scholarship, but we just clicked. We went through everything together, inseparable.

"Then came our junior year. I started seeing someone called Paul Fletcher. He was 'old money'; I guess I was flattered he liked me. Fiona didn't like him, though. She tried to talk to me about his reputation; I refused to listen. She knew, though, what he was like - she had friends who had friends, that sort of thing. They knew about his violent temper.

"One night Paul and I got into a fight. He wanted to take our relationship to the next level; I wasn't ready. Paul didn't 'do' rejection. He turned on me; hit me. God, Liam, I'd never been so scared in my life. Paul began to beat me; he almost killed me. Fiona arrived, though, just in time, like an avenging angel. She'd had a feeling something was wrong. She burst in, campus security on her heels. They dragged him out of there and rushed me to the hospital. I was a long time recovering. Fiona never left my side.

"Thanks to his family's connections, Paul got away with probation and community service. He was expelled from the university and a restraining order was placed against him; he wasn't allowed within a two hundred yard radius of me. I didn't fight it - I just wanted him gone.

"Fiona says I changed after that, became tougher. I suppose she's right. After I recovered, we both took some new classes. Martial arts, weapons, personal security. Never again did we want to find ourselves in that type of situation.

"A few years passed, and we joined Doors International - it was still a growing company then. Fiona chose to be my assistant; as a team, we were unbeatable. We rose through the ranks quickly. That's how I met my husband; Michael was another VP on the fast track. Our courtship was fast and furious; within three months we were married. For two years I was happy, truly happy. We had one child, a daughter, Lisa. Oh, Liam, she was beautiful! The centre of my life.

"Then things began to go wrong. I was promoted above Michael; he couldn't take that. He began to resent me. He'd hurl abuse at me - verbal abuse, at first, nothing more. The first time he tried to hit me I left, taking Lisa with me. We were divorced and I was awarded custody.

"Losing Lisa snapped him back from the brink. Michael joined a counselling program, controlled his rages, got his life back. I agreed to visitation rights with Lisa, but refused to try again at our marriage; he'd broken that beyond repair.

"That's how it stayed for the next three and a half years. Then my life turned into a nightmare. Paul Fletcher came back, in defiance of the restraining order. He'd send me notes; leave messages on my phone. Fiona and I called in the police, but they were unable to catch them.

"Paul had gotten a lot worse; he was convinced I belonged to him. He hated Michael and Lisa - we found that much out later. Michael was killed - an explosion in his apartment. Foul play was suspected. It was decided to move Lisa to a safe house. Paul staged a deliberate hit and run. When Lisa was being moved to the car waiting to transport her, a car came out of nowhere and ploughed into her. She was killed instantly. My world went dark; the joy had left. Fiona was the only person I let in. I think, to be honest, that I went a little mad for a while.

"Two nights later Paul breached the security on my house, killing two police officers in the process. Fiona spotted him before I did; she shot at him, nicking his left arm. That didn't stop him from firing at me. Fiona... Fiona stepped in front of the bullet; she saved my life. I was in shock; I picked up her gun and aimed it at Paul. I don't even remember firing it, but apparently I hit him twice. The second shot punctured a lung.

"Later, while at the hospital with Fiona, we were told he'd died from his wounds. I never thought to question it.

"My life continued; the laughter was gone, though. That died with Lisa. I climbed the corporate ladder, Fiona looking after me like a guardian angel. Then the Taelons came. The Resistance gave me a new goal to strive toward. Then I met you.

"And then, just over five weeks ago, the first message arrived. Paul is back. I don't know why he isn't dead, why were lied to. I've spent the past five weeks tracking down all personnel that were on duty at the hospital that night. Three doctors remain unaccounted for; one of them has to be the one that treated Paul.

"Then tonight, Paul surprised me in the parking lot. Again, Fiona saved my life. She told the police to call you, and here we are..."

Renee fell silent. For a long time, Liam didn't speak. When he did, she was surprised at the rebuke in his tone.

"Why didn't you call me for help?"

Passionately, but softly, she cried, "Because he's already killed two people I loved and almost killed another. I didn't want to put you in danger!"

Liam still didn't look happy with her answer, but nonetheless softened his tone. "Well, you're going to have to let me help now, because there's no way I'm letting you face him alone. Clear?"

Renee sighed, but nodded her understanding. She knew his mind was made up.

Liam spoke again. "In the morning we make some calls - to Augur and to the police. We find him, and we stop him. Till then you stay with me - no arguments. We'd better call Fiona, too, and get her to bring you some clothes, eh?"

Renee sent him a look that spoke volumes at that last remark. Liam grinned innocently.

"You take the bed. You need the rest."

Realising that arguing would be a waste of breath; Renee complied. Settling down to sleep, she heard Liam call out one final question - did she have a picture of Lisa with her? Surprised, she called out yes; there was one in her wallet if he wanted to have a look. Silence claimed its hold again.

A few moments later, Liam entered the room, carrying the photograph. He placed it on the bedside table. Softly, he brushed his hand through Renee's hair. He murmured softly, "She looks like an angel. Tonight she'll help me watch over you. Sleep, Renee, you're safe."

Liam left Renee sleeping and walked to the window to stare out into the night. For one of the few times in his life, he wanted to kill. Paul Fletcher would never be allowed to harm Renee again. Not as long as he had breath in his body.

Renee woke early the next morning to the aroma of freshly brewing coffee. She glanced blearily at the clock beside the bed - 6.30am. Renee groaned and buried her head under the pillow. It was way too early. Didn't Kincaid understand the concept of sleeping in?

Groaning, she pulled herself out of bed, calling to Liam that she'd join him in a few minutes.

Sleep mussed, she made her way out to where Liam had breakfast already laid out. She had to admit it looked good. Sitting down, she helped herself to some orange juice. Surprised to find herself hungry, she ate heartily.

When they had finished, Liam brought up the story Renee had told him the night before. "Renee, is it all right for me to talk to Augur about this? We need to find these three missing doctors. You know that he is our best option for finding them. If anyone can trace them quickly he can."

Sighing, Renee nodded. Much as she might wish it, there was no way to avoid her past coming out now; the main goal was stopping Fletcher - without anybody else getting killed.

Acting on another topic of last night's conversation, Renee put in a call to Fiona. Her friend grinned at her request, but promised to personally pick up some of her clothes and deliver them to Renee at Liam's apartment.

While Renee did that Liam had also been busy making calls. His first, was to Augur. Augur had been horrified to hear what was going on and had volunteered his services for as long as was needed; in fact, he had promised to begin his search the moment Liam ended his call.

Next, he called the police. They had no new leads - a fact that caused Liam to frown in concern. The lack of progress simply wasn't good enough, not with Renee's life on the line. The police requested Ms. Palmer come in to headquarters for a meeting with the lead detectives at noon. Liam agreed. "We'll both be there."

Liam's last call was to Sandoval. The other man was noticeably aggrieved at Liam's co-opting of Volunteer personnel from the Embassy. Technically, they were out of his sphere of responsibility. Tiring of Sandoval's tirade, Liam snapped out, "Sandoval would you shut up and listen to meÉI had my reasonsÉ!" Surprisingly enough, once Liam's explanation had been given, Sandoval was also sympathetic to the situation. He had agreed to the Volunteers Liam had posted outside the apartment the night before remaining at his disposal for as long as was needed. Ms. Palmer was an invaluable friend to the Taelons - they would assist in her protection.

Half an hour later, Fiona arrived. She looked noticeably put out when she realised that Renee had spent the night in Liam's bed - alone.

"This wasn't what I expected after your call this morning. I thought you'd finally come to your sensesÉDon't you glare at me like that, girl, I've already told you what I think of your actions - sorry inaction - with regard to Major Kincaid! He's the best thing that has happened to you in yearsÉ"

Renee continued to glare at her. Fiona was unrepentant. The only good thing was that Liam had been in another room and missed the entire scene; thank God.

Liam, Renee and Fiona discussed the situation. Liam had duties that he could not rearrange; there was no time. Sandoval and Da'an had agreed to free up as much time as possible for Liam to help Renee, even if that meant Sandoval guarding Da'an on a few occasions. Unfortunately, this morning's ceremony and security arrangements could not be changed.

Liam told Fiona that he had arranged a Volunteer escort for both Renee and herself, effective immediately. He'd be there by 11.30 am in time for Renee's trip to police HQ. Till then, they were to be careful!

Renee and Fiona rose to leave; being stalked by a psychotic madman didn't mean they could stop work. Life went on.

As scheduled, Liam met Renee just before she was due to leave for police headquarters. He'd made one stop at Augur's on his way - he'd needed a favour.

Alone in Renee's office, he pulled a small velvet bag out of one of his jacket pockets. Confused, Renee watched as he pulled out a gold pendant of some sort. A gift - what was Liam thinking?

Shyly, Liam walked behind her and fastened the pendant round her neck. As he did so, he murmured softly, "This was my mother's. It's the rune Sowulo. She called it her 'protection'. Sowulo's traditional meaning is 'the Sun'. It also means confidence, optimism, following the path of one's principles. I want you to wear it; knowing how much I care about you, she'd want you to wear it. You don't have to, but it'd make me happier."

Renee fingered the symbol at her throat; it looked like a lightning bolt. How appropriate. Since the night she'd rescued him and Augur, her life had never been the same. She was too pragmatic to believe in the runic 'protection', but she appreciated the sentiment behind the gesture. She'd wear the pendant, gladly.

Liam smiled. What Renee didn't know was that Augur - at his request - had attached a small, practically microscopic homing beacon to the underside of the pendant. Renee would never know it was there. The powerful beacon could be tracked from Liam's global. In the event of something going wrong, it was added insurance that Liam would be able to track her; hopefully before she came to any harm.

That settled they left to meet the police and get the update on the latest developments in the case.

The shuttle re-entered normal space and made its final approach to the roof of the police building. Liam glanced back at Renee to make sure she was ready for landing. For a moment, he didn't say anything; he just watched Renee as she absently fingered the rune at her neck. Did she even realise what she was doing? Softly, he said, "We're here. Prepare for landing."

On the roof they were met by two of the detectives that had been present at Doors HQ the night before. Renee summoned a smile for them as a greeting.

Liam and Renee were escorted to a conference room about half filled with police personnel. Renee, seeing this gathering, hesitated momentarily at the door. Liam placed a reassuring hand at the small of her back, and taking a deep breath, Renee walked in and took the seat offered to her.

Renee sat impassively as her past with Fletcher was discussed in detail. The old case files were scattered about the conference table, some on notepad globals, some actually printed files. In another situation she might have appreciated the humour in the situation. One of the few uniformed officers present - he looked like he'd graduated from high school yesterday - stared in bewilderment at the file he was handed; he'd obviously never handled a printed crime report before. One of the older detectives - in fact, if she wasn't mistaken, he was the kind detective from the night before - shook his head in exasperation, and handed the young officer the global he was holding and took the file out of his hand.

Liam had listened distractedly while the police talked over the previous incidents that involved Fletcher. Most of his concentration had been focused on Renee - particularly when the crime scene images of her daughter's hit and run were displayed. She'd been sitting with her hands folded in front of her; Liam watched the knuckles whiten, but then she'd taken a deep breath and fingered the pendant, again. Liam breathed a sigh of relief, but nonetheless he stood and positioned himself between Renee and the images She acknowledged his gesture with a half smile.

His global chose that moment to signal a message, interrupting the conversation in the room. Excusing himself, Liam moved over to the far corner of the room for some privacy.

It was Augur.

"Hey, Liam, how's Renee holding up? Look, I gotta be quick, I'm waiting on a call from an... Let's just call her an acquaintance. Anyway, two of the doctors are clean, retired - they had no contact with Fletcher. The last one, Dr Matthew Stewart, is looking like your best lead. He was the attending physician on Fletcher that night. He pronounced Fletcher dead, resigned two days later and moved to a country with no extradition treaty. Somehow, he also seems to have suddenly come into a great deal of money. As we know, money talks; and when 'old money' talks, things get done even faster.

"My acquaintance is tracing the money for me... with any luck, I'll have Stewart's location for you by the end of the day. The source account for the original money is going to take longer, but I'll get back to you. Watch yourself; take care of Palmer."

Liam made his way over to Renee to tell her the news, but before he could, one of the detectives - the one who had displayed the pictures of Renee's daughter without any advance warning - started talking about appropriate security measures for ReneeÉ since when did this jerk have permission to call her Renee? Liam listened for a moment before deciding enough was enough. He slammed his hand down on the conference table. Silence descended.

"Thank you for your suggestions, detective. Ms Palmer and I will give them the attention they deserve, I assure you. Make any security precautions you deem necessary for Ms Palmer's offices. I'll have Volunteers assigned there as well. As for her personal security... Ms Palmer is staying at my apartment till this matter is resolved. The Synod is greatly concerned that this matter be handled quickly; Ms Palmer and Doors International are valued highly as good friends of the Taelons. Until Fletcher is captured and incarcerated I have been authorised to take any measures I deem necessary to ensure her protection. Ms Palmer has agreed to this.

"You'll forgive me if I say that I'm less than impressed with the progress you've made so far in apprehending Fletcher. The call I just took was from a confidential source. The doctor that treated Fletcher and pronounced him dead is Dr Matthew Stewart. We should have a location on him by the end of the day. Naturally we'll be in touch.

"I understand from Ms Palmer that you have been provided with the 'messages' that Fletcher has been sending her. Have you made any progress on locating Fletcher with this information...?"

The tone of the meeting changed dramatically after that. Unfortunately, the police had been unable to find much in the way of clues from the cards and 'presents' that Fletcher had sent.

Another meeting was scheduled for the same time the next day. Liam and Renee left - again, the police could offer no argument that the shuttle was the safest way to transport Renee - and Liam and Renee went back to Renee's office so that she could check in with Fiona.

Fiona greeted their arrival eagerly. She was anxious to hear about the progress the police had made. That didn't last long. She snorted her disgust at their lack of progress. She did listen attentively when Liam discussed the imminent arrival of the Volunteers; jotting down some of the facts, she assured him that she'd have the security teams ready to assist them in any way possible.

Liam excused himself to make some calls and Fiona took that opportunity to have a chat with Renee. She was relieved to see that Renee was taking things so well. Obviously the strain was still there, but she seemed to be coping easier, and Fiona had a damn good idea why.

She noticed Renee fingering a pendant at her neck. "That's new. Where did you get it?"

"Mmh? Oh, Liam gave me it. He said it was his mother's."

Fiona said nothing to this. Silently, she was thinking, Sure there's nothing going on between you two. You have got to be kidding me!

Liam came back, saying that it was time for them to go. Renee eyed him curiously, but went along all the same.

They arrived at the Flat Planet and went immediately into one of the back rooms, where Augur was waiting. The current situation was a bit awkward for quiet meetings, what with both the police and the Volunteers watching the pair.

Augur's acquaintance had located the elusive doctor. Renee's eyes tightened and her expression grew tense; finally a lead to what had really happened to Fletcher and, hopefully, a lead to Fletcher himself.

Liam excused himself to let Sandoval and the Volunteers know, as well as the police. Sandoval said he'd talk to Da'an. With any luck, if the North American Companion talked to the South American Companion, and that Companion talked to the governments involved, then some red tape could be bypassed and the Volunteers could move in to retrieve the doctor and deliver him to the Washington DC police. Legally.

Meanwhile, Renee had been left sitting with an uncharacteristically quiet Augur. He didn't quite know how to treat her. Normally they'd be happily trading barbed words, but under the circumstances...Then he noticed Renee fingering the pendant. Liam had given her it, then.

Curious as to what Liam had said about it, he - oh so casually - commented on its appearance. Absently, Renee related the fact that Liam had given it to her and that it had been his mother's. In genuine surprise, Augur lifted an eyebrow. What does the kid think he's doing?

"Uh, Renee, what has Liam told you about his mother?"

Bewildered by Augur's sudden concern, Renee shrugged her shoulders and said that Liam hadn't told her anything. Augur sighed. Perfect. That meant that he'd have to tell her.

"You know what he told you about Sandoval? There's more he didn't tell you... Don't look at me like that! If you'll recall, you were in no mood to listen!

"Where was I? Oh yeah... You'll remember that I said triple helix DNA. That means three parents. Ha'gel and Sandoval you were told about. His mother - his mother was Lieutenant Beckett... yes, that Beckett. He was born in the Liberation HQ. Her CVI had been overloaded by the joining... she knew exactly where she was. She remained conscious long enough after he was born to name him Liam and to make us - particularly Lili - promise to take care of him...no matter what. The meaning of 'no matter what' quickly became apparent as his accelerated growth kicked in. To say we were surprised would be an understatement.

"I got the task of looking after Liam as one of our doctors performed surgery on Beckett. Her CVI was 'fixed' so that she'd have no memory of Liam or the Resistance personnel that she'd met. It was engineered so that it would overload and kill her if she did start to remember.

"So there we were; less than a week after he was born, Liam was protecting Da'an and interacting with his two human parents with neither of them having the slightest idea of whom he was. Somehow, Beckett sensed the connection, though she didn't know exactly what it was. She and Liam became close. When her CVI started to break down, we had a race against time to see who'd find her first - us or Sandoval. Liam found her moments before she died. He's never told me all that was said between them, only that he got to tell her the truth and she got to say goodbye to her son before she died.

"What Doors, Lili and even I have all forgotten - on more than one occasion - is that Liam carries the genetic knowledge of all three of his parents. We see Protectors and Taelon stooges; I honestly have no idea what Liam sees. He never hid the fact that he loved his mother from us, never. As for Sandoval - well, you were there for that. What goes on in Liam's head I wouldn't even care to speculate about. I have always had the greatest deal of respect for him, though - how he copes with being around Sandoval and remaining silent is something I'll never know.

"Sandoval recognised the connection between Liam and Beckett too, and he'll certainly recognise her pendant. Be prepared if he comments on it. Liam gave it to you...it belonged to a close friend that died... that sort of thing. Take no chances; there's no room for error."

Subdued, Renee nodded her understanding. The more she learned about Kincaid, the more complex he got. She fingered his 'gift'; there was more history to this pendant than she'd ever even considered.

Liam returned and eyed the quiet pair with a curious expression. Neither commented on what they'd been discussing. He was surprised when Renee gave Augur's cheek a kiss as they took their leave. Something had happened between the two of them - it seemed to have brought them to some sort of understanding.

It was late, so they made their way back to Liam's apartment and checked in with the Volunteers stationed on guard detail.

From a distance, obscured from direct line of sight, Fletcher watched them. He noticed Kincaid's arm fall gently around Renee's shoulders and how she leaned closer and placed her head against his shoulder as they entered the front of the building.

Fletcher's eyes burned with hatred. How dare Kincaid touch her! It seemed there was a new obstacle to be removed before he could act to take back Renee. Major Kincaid would have to die. It was that simple.

Liam sighed as he followed Renee and her police escort out of the Doors International building. A squad of Volunteers'd join them when they reached the cars. Getting Renee to accept the escort had been a battle, but he'd insisted and finally, she'd agreed. It was his compromise for allowing her a means of travel other than shuttle. So far, it seemed to be working out all right.

Things were progressing, slowly. It had been four days since Stewart had been located, and there were Volunteer teams in South America tracking him down. They'd have him by week's end - he hoped; they had to get a lucky break soon. The police could do nothing without some solid leads and Fletcher had gone to ground. Renee was holding up as well as could be expected, but both he and Fiona were concerned. She'd lost her 'spark', the particular essence that made her so alive, and Liam missed it.

Looking around, he felt a vague feeling of unease. Something wasn't right.

His mind flashed on an image of an explosion. Desperately, he cried out a warning, at the same time running to tackle Renee to the ground and away from his car. Shielding her with his own body, he watched as -seconds later - it exploded. How in the name of hell had Fletcher got past security?!

Recognising his priorities, he opened his global and ordered the immediate dispatch of a shuttle to the scene. When it arrived, he shoved Renee aboard and, overriding her protests, he set a flight path for police HQ.

When they got there, the scene was one of organised chaos. Forensics teams had been dispatched to the scene of the explosion and were - with the aid of a team from Doors International under Fiona's direct supervision - sweeping the scene for any possible evidence that would give them a link to Fletcher's location.

Against Liam's better judgement, but in line with proper procedure, he and Renee were separated to give their statements. He knew it was so the facts they gave would not be tainted by what the other said, but he really didn't want to leave Renee alone right now.

He had just finished recounting his version of events - thankfully, the detectives had bought his explanation of 'instinct' being the reason he had known something was wrong - when he heard a smashing sound from the main conference room. Ignoring the detectives, he rushed out to see Renee drop into one of the seats at the huge table. He could also see the coffee cup that she'd apparently hurled against the side wall. Approaching Renee, he turned the chair until she had no alternative but to look at him. Kneeling in front of her, Liam took her hands in his. "We'll get him, Renee, you have to believe that. We will get him." It was a sentiment silently echoed by every police officer in the room.

The next day found Liam and Renee back at police headquarters for an update on what the teams had found at the scene of the previous day's explosion. Apparently the device had been custom-designed with components from many different sources. Those that had survived the blast were being traced; it was going to take time, though.

Detective Flaherty was addressing one of the key issues that was puzzling the police as Fiona entered the room. Renee eyed her in confusion; why was she here instead of at the office? Fiona stood against the far wall - apparently whatever it was that had brought her here could wait until Flaherty was done. Renee concentrated on what the detective was saying.

"Again, Major, we are working on it. The main fact that concerns us right now is why was the device placed in your car. According to the security briefing, Ms Palmer was scheduled to be in her own car. You have both stated that it was a last minute decision on the way down to the main lobby that it would be easier for you both to take your car to your next appointment. If the original plan had been followed, then you would have been the only occupant of the car when it exploded..."

Renee's eyes were full of a dawning horror as Flaherty's voice trailed off. Fiona chose that moment to step forward and drop a package on the conference table, saying, "I think I can answer that."

The attention of those in the room was equally divided between the package and Fiona. Eyeing Renee with concern, Fiona said, "An internal review has found a security guard that was bribed to look the other way as someone, possibly Fletcher, tampered with the Major's vehicle. A Volunteer security team has brought him in for questioning; he's currently with some officers outside.

"The package on the table is from Fletcher. It's been a week; we knew it was due to arrive. As per the Major's orders, I opened it as soon as it was delivered to the office. Also, as per instructions, there were Volunteer and police technicians present as I did so."

Unspoken fear in her eyes, Renee opened the message and read aloud, "My dear Renee, have you missed me? Apparently not, you traitorous bitch! Well, have your fun, my dear; it won't last much longer, I promise you that. You will be mine, Renee; I would have thought by now you would have realised that I will remove anyone from my path... anyone. Losing Michael and Lisa was obviously not enough of a lesson for you about how serious I am. Maybe losing your 'new love' will bring the message home. Say your goodbyes to Kincaid... he'll be joining the others soon."

Renee's face had gotten paler the more she read. Reflexively, her hands crumpled the message. Turning to the Major - who had suddenly become the centre of attention for everyone in the room - Renee said in a determined voice, "That's it, you stay away from me. Far away. The police and the Volunteers will look after me. I won't have you put in danger over me... I won't."

Equally stubborn, the Major shook his head no. "I won't give into this madman's threats, Renee, and I certainly will not let you face him alone."

"Liam, please! I couldn't bear it if something happened to you because of me!"

Again Liam shook his head. "Together, Renee. We face this together."

Fiona smiled softly. She'd expected a reaction like this from Renee - maybe not quite so public an avowal of worry, but definitely a reaction of some sort. Kincaid's reaction had come as no surprise. He was not the type to run away, and Fiona knew he'd walk through fire for Renee.

Time to suggest her idea. Clearing her throat, she broke the emotionally charged tension of the room. "Might I suggest that we use this new obsession of Fletcher's to our own advantage? Turn the tables as it were?"

All eyes focused on Fiona; even Liam and Renee looked curious. Flaherty said, "What do you mean, Miss Smith?"

"I mean use Fletcher's hatred of Kincaid and make it work for us.

"We have the security guard from Doors International. The Volunteers should be bringing in Dr Stewart any day now. We are closing in on Fletcher. Keep him off balance; he hates the Major - use that."

"How?" asked Liam.

"First we bring in the media. I know it goes against every instinct you both have, but go public about the threats against Renee. Then, we talk about the combined taskforce of police and Volunteers working to resolve the situation and bring the madman responsible to justice. Renee being a valued friend of the Taelons, mention the Synod's grave concern. Major Kincaid being in charge of Ms Palmer's personal security due to their very close friendship. Stuff like that. Then all you two have to do is play up the relationship in public. There's been speculation about the two of you for months."

Nonplussed, Liam looked at Fiona and said, "There has?"

Fiona was not the only person in the rooms to pull an exasperated face. Did they really not know that there had been gossip about them for months? How many times had they been seen at official functions together? Did they really think that an executive as visible as Ms Palmer could be seen with one of the most elusive of the exclusive fraternity of Companion Protectors and not have it raise comment?

"Trust me on this. It'll get media attention. With any luck, the more he sees the two of you pictured together, talked about together, the more infuriated Fletcher will become. Hopefully he'll start making mistakes and get sloppy. It could allow us to catch him that much sooner. All you two have to do is pretend to be a couple."

Fiona couldn't even look at Renee; if she did, she'd laugh, she knew she would. This was deadly serious, but - oh God! - if they went for this, things could get very, very interesting. Looking around the room, she could also see some of the police officers - particularly the female officers - had interested expressions on their faces. A few eyebrows had been raised at the 'pretend to be a couple' remark. The looks seemed to suggest that most of these officers thought that they were a couple already.

Liam looked at Renee with an unreadable expression on his face; she regarded him in much the same way. The Major spoke first. He said, "If you'll excuse us for a moment, Ms Palmer and I need to talk." They disappeared into one of the side offices, closing the door behind them.

Nobody knew what was said in that office, but a few minutes later they emerged and Renee said, "We'll try it."

"Good," said Fiona. "Here's what I suggest. The charity gala is tonight..."

The news had been full of the story all day. The threats against Ms Palmer had been made public, as well as her past loss at the hands of this madman. There had been a huge outpouring of support and well wishes for her, as well as a great deal of admiration for the way that she was coping with the situation.

It was also noted that her constant escort through the press conference and all her appearances was none other than the North American Companion's Protector, Major Liam Kincaid.

The focus of the report shifted to the Charity Gala being held for one of the local children's hospitals. The great and the good were shown 'doing their bit' for charity. The appearance of Renee Palmer was noted and she was quietly applauded for her courage.

The report shifted to show scenes of couples dancing; one couple in particular caught the attention of the cameras. Renee Palmer and Liam Kincaid, dancing close. He lowered his head to listen to something she was saying, then nodded and smiled. She raised a hand to his neck, pulling his head down for a quick kiss.

The bartender jumped, startled, as a glass was flung at the screen. Smashed, it fell to the floor with a crash. He looked around and saw it was him, the weird guy. He'd been in all afternoon, drinking with a single-minded determination that was unnerving. The bartender saw the hatred burning in the guy's eyes as he turned and stalked from the bar. Uneasy, he went to the vid screen in the back office and placed a call to the police.

"Yeah, I think I might have some information about that guy; you know the one that the news has been talking about... The one after that Renee Palmer lady..."

Liam stood on the bridge of the Mothership and gave Zo'or his daily update on the hunt for Paul Fletcher.

"...The current strategy seems to be working. As you know, this man Fletcher has developed an intense hatred for me. Ms Palmer still remains his prime focus, but he sees me as an obstacle that must be removed before he will act against her.

"Working in concert with the police, it was decided that Ms Palmer and I should 'pose' as a couple. The idea was to act in such a manner to enrage him further. It is a calculated risk, but it seems to be paying off. It has been ten days since our first public appearance as a couple and in that time, the police have received numerous calls from the public with reported sightings of Fletcher. On several occasions they have reported witnessing Fletcher fly into a rage while watching news coverage of Ms Palmer and myself together. These leads are all being investigated and we believe we are closing in on Fletcher's location.

"The doctor that treated Fletcher - Dr Stewart - was located and returned to the US by Volunteers acting under orders from Agent Sandoval. He was questioned by the detectives assigned to this case and revealed the source of the bribe that he received to fake Fletcher's death. It was Fletcher's uncle, who was, at the time, a Congressman in Stewart's home state. Unfortunately, Stewart had no information on Fletcher's current whereabouts. He has been turned over to the FBI for his part in the events immediately following the murder of Ms Palmer's daughter and two of the police officers assigned to protect her the last time she was targeted by Fletcher.

"Under intense questioning, the security guard from Doors International's HQ that was suborned by Fletcher admitted to seeing the vehicle that he was using. The guard only managed to see a partial license plate, but the police are currently running a trace. Hopefully we should get results from that soon.

"Ms Palmer is due to attend an annual celebration held for Doors International employees later tonight. That is our next scheduled public appearance. There will be three squads of Volunteers and approximately twenty police officers providing security. It will be discreet; we hope to provide the appearance of a soft target - and tempt Fletcher out into the open."

Zo'or looked satisfied with his report, And well he should, thought Liam sourly. It was bitterly ironic, but the Taelons' approval ratings were benefiting from the public's perception of their role in aiding Renee in her time of crisis.

Sighing, he excused himself and prepared to return to Earth. He was due to pick Renee up from her office in less than an hour to attend their daily police briefing; and then he'd see her again that evening for the party.

Liam's shuttle touched down on the roof of the main building of the Doors International HQ. Surprised, he looked around. Where were the guards? There were always two Volunteers on duty here. Always.

Cautiously, he approached the roof access door with his weapon drawn. As he got closer to the door, he saw the crumpled form of a Volunteer, a knife embedded in the side of their neck. Swearing, he flicked open his global and signalled the security office in the building.

Nothing. No response. Jesus - what had Fletcher done? How the hell had he breached security?

Liam called the police and reported the situation. He was ordered to remain where he was. He refused - he had to find out what had happened to Renee!

Opening the access door, he caught the faintest whiff of something in the air: gas. Of course!

Running back to the shuttle, he grabbed a portable scanner. Trace residues - whatever Fletcher had used had dissipated by now.

Liam entered the building; he had to get to the executive office level. He had to find Renee! Heart beating wildly, fearing what he might find, Liam made his way through the building. He passed several collapsed bodies along the way. Kneeling down to feel for pulses, he breathed a sigh of relief - they were faint, but they were there, thank God! Fletcher hadn't engaged in wholesale slaughter.

Reaching Renee's office as quickly as he could, he paused, took a deep breath, and made his way into the inner office.

"Oh, no! Please, no!" He approached the body slumped over the desk. Unmindful of the blood and with tears in his eyes, he lifted Fiona up.

Wait a second... He fumbled for her wrist. He hadn't imagined it; there was a pulse! Liam pulled open his global and barked an order for immediate medical assistance at his present location.

Fiona stirred, hearing his voice. Weakly, she grabbed at his arm and murmured something softly. Liam sighed his relief.

"I understand, Fiona. I'll get her back. I promise you."

Moments later, the entire building was swarming with police, Volunteers and medical personnel.

An hour later found Liam at police headquarters. The mood was grim.

Fletcher had spared the staff; the gas, while unpleasant, was not lethal. Four of the Volunteers and police officers on the security detail had been killed. Fiona Smith had received horrific injuries but was expected to survive. As for Renee Palmer, she was gone. Fletcher had taken her.

Liam was about to reveal the existence of the tracer when a police technician rushed in and reported breathlessly that Fletcher was on line - and he wanted to talk to Major Kincaid!

The room hushed as Fletcher's call was patched through to the Major.

"You should have known better than to leave her alone in her office, Kincaid. She's mine now."

"Fletcher, if you hurt her in any way, I'll make you pay; I promise you!" grated Liam.

"You'll never find us, Kincaid. I'll have to punish her, of course. Her betrayal of me cannot be ignored. She'll pay dearly for choosing you over me. I just wanted to leave you with that thought."

The transmission ceased and silence hung in the air. The rage in the Major's eyes was apparent, as was the fear.

Then he seemed to gather himself and regain control. Straightening up, he said, "We have one chance. She's wearing a concealed tracer - even she doesn't know about it. As long as we move now, there's still hope. The signal is linked directly to my global. There's a shuttle waiting for me on the roof. Have a response unit standing by. I'll relay co-ordinates as soon as I can; the Volunteers will join you and shuttle you to the location as soon as we have it." Liam left the room hurriedly, making his way to the waiting shuttle.

Meanwhile, inside, Flaherty heaved a sigh of relief. They still had a chance to get her back. They should have realised Kincaid would have put a tracer on Ms Palmer. After all, he took her safety very seriously.

Flaherty called out, "Okay, people, you heard him. I want a tactical response unit on standby and ready to go in the next ten minutes. Move, people!"

Liam ran across the roof and towards the waiting shuttle. He leapt aboard and tersely ordered, "Go!" before he had even found his seat. Flicking open his global, he input the sequence Augur had told him would activate the tracer.

Heart pounding, he waited for the signal to be acquired. As he waited he was thinking, Where are you, Renee? Hold on... just hold on... I am going to find you.

The global emitted a strident tone. Yes! The tracer was working!

"Damn it... there's only one way they could have moved that fast. Fletcher has to have access to an ID portal. When I find out who has been bankrolling him, I swear to God I'll...

"Okay, the signal is stationary - twenty miles outside of Seattle. Take us to the main Volunteer complex in Seattle. Now!"

As the Volunteer obediently changed course, Liam called in to the Mothership. A squad of Volunteers was dispatched to pick-up the response unit that Flaherty had placed on standby and shuttle them to Seattle. Sandoval also assured him that the Seattle PD would be brought up to speed - by the time the unit got to Seattle, special dispensation would be given for them to work with the local police. The local PD knew the area, but the unit from DC knew Fletcher and had been investigating him for weeks. Also, they had been interacting with the Volunteers on security matters; they were familiar with their methods. All three groups would have to work together. Liam knew he could leave the legalities of the situation to Da'an and Sandoval; they'd ensure there was no way Fletcher could get off on a technicality. All he had to do was rescue Renee and catch the son of a bitch.

The shuttle re-entered normal space and came in for landing. Liam took a deep breath. Time to get to work.

Two hours later, Liam sat inside one of the Seattle PD's tactical response vehicles and gave the orders that sent the police and Volunteers manoeuvring into position. When the word came over the comm unit in his ear that all teams were in place, Liam turned over strategic oversight of the operation to the lead officer from Seattle PD. Swiftly and silently, he moved into position with the main assault team.

Tense and ready, all the teams waited on the order from Liam to start the assault.

"Go!"

Several things happened at once. Volunteer teams located at all four corners of the huge lodge activated the buffers. Sensors had located the ID portal in the centre of the lodge owned by Fletcher's family. The buffers emitted signals that jammed the portal's central control interface - there was no way that Fletcher could use it to escape.

Two teams of police stormed through the main front and back entrances. Another team - this one made up of Volunteers - landed on the roof and entered the lodge from the top. The remaining police and Volunteer personnel patrolled the surrounding area to make sure there was no possibility of Fletcher escaping.

Liam and his team entered through the front door. Swiftly, efficiently, they searched the ground floor.

Liam stopped suddenly. Swearing, he dove to the side, knocking the two officers closest to him to the floor. Less than a second later, a series of intersecting lasers swept the room at what would have been shoulder level had there been anybody still standing.

Liam scanned the room in frustration until he saw a control panel on the far left wall - just barely in view. He fired off a single shot. The lasers vanished. Warily, everyone got to their feet and resumed the search; whilst keeping a keen eye out for any more 'surprises'.

An angry voice came over the comm channel. "Damn it, we lost him! All personnel be advised, Fletcher is at large... Repeat, Fletcher is armed and at large... last seen heading for the main stairwell... hostage is with him... I say again, hostage is with him..."

Liam's team immediately fanned out and took up positions by the stairs. Fletcher appeared, dragging a listless Renee with him, a knife at her throat. Seemingly unconcerned by the presence of the armed police, he called out, "Kincaid, I know you're here. Come out where I can see you or I'll cut her throat right now..."

Over the protests of his team, Liam did so.

"Ah, Major, welcome. Drop your weapon please... thank you. So, we finally meet face to face... What should we do now, do you think?"

"Let Renee go, Fletcher. Take me in her place," said Liam.

"Oh, I don't think I want to do that, Major. That would spoil all my fun."

"You can't get away, Fletcher. It's over."

In a menacing tone, Fletcher said, "It's over when I decide, Major. One cut... she dies... what do you say, Major? No, I didn't think you'd like that idea... but if I can't have her, no one can..."

Warned by the tone of Fletcher's voice and his own instincts, Liam's hand had already begun to move. He grabbed the butt of the gun that one of the detectives had surreptitiously handed him as he'd walked out to face Fletcher. Not hesitating, Liam fired.

The bullet struck Fletcher's arm, and the knife dropped from his suddenly nerveless fingers. With an insane glint in his eye, he pushed Renee with his other arm. Liam watched, horrified, as she fell down the stairs. He rushed to her side as Fletcher was taken into custody.

With shaking fingers, he felt for Renee's pulse. It was there. Letting out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding, he called out for a medic.

Quickly but firmly he was moved to one side as the medics checked Renee over. He waited anxiously for a report. Finally he was told that she had a definite concussion, but no major injuries.

One officer came running down the stairs with a vial in an evidence bag that he showed to the medics. Liam's heart skipped a beat - had Fletcher drugged her? Seeing his face, one of the medics reassured him. "It's a sedative, that's all. She needs to get to a hospital for a complete evaluation, though, just to be sure. I presume you want to go with her?"

The medical staff had confirmed the assessment made by the medics in the field. Liam called Sandoval and gave him a brief report, and then spent the rest of his time at Renee's bedside. The nursing staff eventually gave up trying to move him. It was unclear how long Renee would be unconscious. No trace of any substance other than the sedative had been found. There was no way to know exactly how long it would take to leave her system, however; they didn't know what dosage Fletcher had used on her.

Liam just sat there, waiting. Almost eight hours passed before Renee showed the first signs that she was stirring. He saw her eyes flutter open and dart nervously round the unfamiliar room. Soothingly, he said, "It's okay, Renee. We got him. He's in custody."

A single tear rolled down her cheek. Liam raised her hand and kissed her palm. Knowing she needed rest, he got up to leave, but Renee grabbed at his sleeve, an unspoken plea in her eyes. There was no way he could refuse that look. Liam climbed onto the hospital bed and lay down, pulling Renee closer so that her head could rest on his shoulder. He dropped a soft kiss on her forehead. She breathed a quiet sigh, content. Fifteen minutes later they were both asleep.

The nursing staff found them that way, and, rather than disturb the two, they simply placed a blanket over them both. If the news reports of recent weeks were any indication, they'd earned it.

That was the way the ward stayed until, a few hours later, several harried looking Volunteers and police personnel came rushing in. One of them, a Detective Flaherty, demanded the location of Major Kincaid. The nurse on duty - a middle aged woman called Mary - shushed the detective and motioned toward the private room where Ms Palmer was resting. Flaherty looked inside and saw the pair, asleep. The detective nodded to Mary; Message clear - we won't disturb them. Satisfied, Mary returned to her duty station.

Flaherty ordered guards posted outside the room, at each entrance to the corridor, at the main access points to the hospital, and on the roof. The couple would be given this one night to rest. They'd be told the bad news in the morning.

Fletcher had escaped and killed another two police officers in the process.

Liam woke early the next morning. Slowly and gently, not wishing to disturb Renee, he eased himself from the bed. Tiredly, he rubbed his hands over his face, in preparation to face the new day. That was when he noticed the guards stationed at the door, and a feeling of deep foreboding settled over him.

As he exited the room, the guards nodded at him sombrely. Just as he was about to ask what was going on, he spotted Detective Flaherty coming down the corridor. The detective gestured to a more private area of the corridor - one that nevertheless afforded the guards stationed in the corridor an unobstructed line of sight on the Major.

Flaherty spoke first. "Sir, I don't quite know how to say this, so I'll just come right out with it. Fletcher has escaped."

"What?! How in the name of hell is that possible?"

Liam listened silently as Flaherty related the events of the previous evening.

Fletcher had been treated - under guard - and as soon as his arm wound had been assessed and bandaged he was prepared for transport to a maximum-security cell at police headquarters. He was moved in a security convoy, two officers riding with him in the mobile containment cell. It was still unclear as to what had happened next; there were garbled witness reports from passing civilians about a strange light encompassing the vehicle transporting Fletcher. What was known was this: the two officers with Fletcher were dead, shot at point blank range; Fletcher himself had disappeared.

Flaherty eyed the Major with concern. His eyes had filled with rage and he seemed to be on the verge of losing control. That couldn't be allowed to happen. He was the driving force behind this task force; everyone looked to him for guidance.

Just as Flaherty was about to say something, the Major - not for the first time - did the unexpected.

Kincaid didn't say a word; he just turned and threw a punch at the wall, a punch full of his own pent up emotion. What Flaherty didn't expect was what followed; Kincaid's fist went right through the wall! Flaherty, who had cried out in an abortive attempt to stop the Major, looked on, astonished, as Kincaid withdrew his hand from the wall - his remarkably uninjured hand!

A still amazed Flaherty could only nod as Kincaid said he was going to go tell Ms. Palmer the bad news.

Four Days Later

Liam sat at Fiona's bedside and filled her in on the latest news from the nation-wide hunt for Fletcher. A couple of the detectives assigned to the task force had questioned the wisdom of talking to Miss Smith, but Liam had overruled them. Fiona was a formidable woman. Even in her current injured state, he valued her insight. She had knowledge of Fletcher that was invaluable. Besides, she cared about Renee as much as he did.

"So, Liam, where's Renee? I'm surprised you've let her out of your sight. She's been quite vocal about your recent over-protectiveness."

Fiona grinned as she noticed the faint blush on the Major's face. The past four days had made his feelings for Renee abundantly clear.

Fiona thought back to the day before. Renee had visited her, and she had teased her old friend too. Renee had blushed! Fiona could clearly remember the last time she had witnessed Renee blushing. They'd been sophomores at MIT, and Renee had been asked out on a date by the campus hunk. She'd blushed furiously as she agreed. From that time till this, no man - not even Michael - had caused Renee to blush. One casual question about how she and Kincaid were getting on and a definite blush had appeared on her cheeks.

Fiona's thoughts were interrupted by Kincaid's response to her question.

"She's supervising the party for the Doors International employees. After it was postponed last week, she is absolutely determined to make sure it goes ahead tomorrow, as planned. Sandoval volunteered to watch her till I get back... which had better be soon. I don't trust them not to come to blows."

Fiona laughed aloud at that. She could well believe it might happen. "Okay, Kincaid, enough chit chat. Why are you here? Besides the pleasure of my sparkling company, of course."

Liam grinned at her. Fiona noticed, however, that his fingers were fidgeting nervously. This was serious.

Liam spoke softly. "Fletcher was spotted here in DC this morning. A civilian reported seeing him at a local hotel; the police missed him by minutes. Renee will be told about this at our police briefing this afternoon.

"I'm afraid she's going to close herself off even more. We've been here too many times before; Fletcher always manages to slip through our fingers.

"Then there's the party. It's an obvious target, but there is nothing anyone can say that will convince her to stay away. I'm worried, Fiona."

Fiona laid a reassuring hand on Kincaid's arm, her mind working furiously. He was right; the situation didn't look good. The impetus had switched to Fletcher in the four days since his capture and subsequent escape. The police and Volunteers still mourned the loss of their colleagues, killed by Fletcher. The only good thing that had happened in the last week was Renee's rescue, orchestrated by Kincaid.

From the reports Fiona had been given, Fletcher believed Renee and Liam were a couple, and he was obsessed with beating Kincaid. The germ of an idea began to form in Fiona's mind; could it work?

Liam eyed her curiously. Half jokingly, he said, "Watch out, world. She's got another idea."

Fiona said, "This is what I propose. When you and Renee are back in your apartment tonight, I want you to..."

The Volunteers stationed outside the door to Fiona's private hospital room glanced at each other with a question in their eyes as they heard Major Kincaid yell, "You want us to do what?!"

Later that day, after an uneventful briefing with the police, Liam and Renee returned to his apartment.

Together, they made dinner. Over the last few weeks that Renee had been staying with him, she and Liam had fallen into a routine. They prepared dinner together, instinctively working as a team in the small kitchen. After dinner, they'd read, talk quietly, play chess; Liam always won.

Tonight however, something was different. Liam seemed distracted; he had been ever since his visit to Fiona. Finally, Renee decided enough was enough.

"Liam, what's wrong? You're worlds away. There's nothing wrong, is there?"

Liam put down his fork. Looking anywhere but at Renee, he said, "Fiona and I had a long talk this afternoon. I told her about my concerns over the reappearance of Fletcher, the risks of you attending the party tomorrow night, morale among the police and Volunteers; all of what we've talked about ourselves. She came up with a suggestion, one that I think might work..."

Liam's voice trailed off. Exasperated, Renee said, "Well, what's the plan Fiona has come up with?"

Finally looking Renee directly in the eyes, Liam said, "Renee, will you marry me?"

Renee just stared at Liam, completely astonished. Finally, she managed to croak out, "What did you just say?!"

Nervously, Liam got up and began to pace around the apartment, like a caged wild animal. He kept talking, studiously avoiding eye contact; it was the only way he could get through this.

"Fiona thinks that if we announce our engagement, it'll push Fletcher into making another attempt on my life. I have to admit that Fiona was right about the interest in us. Our pretending to be a couple has brought more media attention than I ever dreamed likely. If we announce our engagement they'll go into a feeding frenzy. You know they will.

"With any luck, Fletcher will be apprehended within days, so the pretence won't have to go on too long. Obviously, we'll have to talk it over with some people - like Sandoval and John Flaherty - prepare them. Not everyone, though. If we keep up the pretence with even the police and the Volunteers, then Fletcher will be more likely to believe it."

During his little exposition Liam had deliberately not looked at Renee, not once. He couldn't, not while talking about this particular subject. If he had, he would have seen the light fade from her eyes.

In the instant after he'd proposed, Renee's eyes had filled with wonder. Her heart had been in her mouth. Then Liam had broken the spell. Not even looking at her, he'd gone on and on about 'the plan', 'the pretence', 'the perfect trap'. Disillusionment and resignation had filled her eyes. She should have known.

Barely hearing Liam's question of, "So what do you say, Renee? Are you game?" Renee gave disconsolate sigh.

She murmured, "What was I thinking? Why would you want to marry me?"

Liam heard her, though. He laid a gentle hand on Renee's arm, trying to get her to look at him. Shaking his hand off, she jumped to her feet and headed off to the armchair at the other end of the apartment for some privacy. A single teardrop landed on Liam's hand as she brushed past him.

Closing his eyes, Liam breathed a deep, anguished breath. He stood there thinking, Fiona, damn it - what have you done?!

That, of course, was completely unfair. This crazy idea may have been hers, but the feelings belonged to them, nobody else. It was time to face the truth.

Liam crossed the apartment to stand in front of the chair that held the curled form of a teary-eyed Renee Palmer. Softly, desperately, he said. "Renee, look at me, please!"

In a monotone voice, Renee told him to leave her alone.

Refusing, Liam gently cupped her face and forced her gaze to meet his. Her tear-filled eyes finally saw the pent up emotion visible in his face, and her eyes widened, stunned. To Liam's, "We need to talk," she simply nodded. Her heart thundered in her chest; this night could well change her life.

Liam murmured, "Where...?" and Renee gave a gentle inclination of her head; here, where they were. Liam nodded. Renee rose from the chair and Liam took her place, pulling her down to nestle on his lap, secure in his arms. Renee laid her head against his shoulder and waited, eyes closed. Finally, Liam spoke, laying his feelings out in the open.

"Renee, I love you. I have done since practically the first moment we met. Surely you know that?" That last question was said with such fond exasperation that Renee had to smile.

In a hesitant voice, she asked, "Then why have you never said anything? You've never made any attempt to ask me my feelings on the matter, never given me any sign that you wanted to take our relationship further!"

"I was scared, Renee! You're one of my closest friends and a colleague in the Resistance. What if you didn't feel the same way? The risks, coupled with my heritage, meant that the potential price was always too great.

"Fletcher changed all that. He'd hurt you before and he was terrorising you again, I couldn't stay on the sidelines. If anything had happened to you, I wouldn't have been able to live with myself. Then Fiona came up with her crazy plan for us to pretend to be a couple!

"The pretence came so easily because I wished it was real. You seemed to be at ease with the idea too, I had decided to talk to you, that it was time... and then Fletcher took you."

Renee heard the echo of Liam's fear and worry in his tone and instinctively nestled closer in his arms, both giving and receiving comfort.

"We got you back safe, thank God. I thought it was too soon after that to try to talk to you about it. You seemed to be focusing on the party, so I decided to wait for a while longer. Then Fiona dropped her little bombshell this afternoon. I'm sorry; I didn't stop to think. If nothing else, I should have found a different way to tell you about her idea..."

Raising gentle fingers to his lips, Renee stopped Liam's needless apology. He'd been honest with her. It was only right that she be as honest with him. She'd thought it would be hard to say. Nothing could have been further from the truth. They were the easiest words that she'd ever spoken. "I love you too, Liam."

She felt the hidden tension leave his arms. He sighed softly and brought his lips down to hers in a gentle kiss. Strengthened by that, Renee continued, "Michael was an important part of my life, and he gave me Lisa. For that I will always love him. He was never my soul mate, though; I knew that, even then. Then Paul Fletcher took them both away from me. I thought my heart had died with them, Liam. Then I met you. As we've worked together, the feelings have been growing. At first, I couldn't recognise them for what they were. It'd been so long since I'd cared about anyone.

"Then, you remember that time in New York when you asked me, 'What's for dinner tonight, honey?' My heart almost stopped. I may have retorted with, 'In your dreams, honey,' but it dawned on me, slowly, that I was beginning to wish that those dreams were real."

Liam shook his head, grinning. Recalling the incident in question, he remembered his 'wife' straightening his tie, fussing till it was right, before they'd met the psychiatric institution's administrator. Renee's tone turned serious.

"Then Paul came back. All of a sudden, I wasn't a world-renowned business executive or a Resistance fighter; I was the younger Renee again, more naive, victim of two previous encounters. It was better this time, though. You were with me, someone I could rely on; and someone I could trust to keep me safe. And then he targeted you. I don't think I've ever been so scared in my entire life. It did do one thing, though. It showed me how much I loved you. The ache in my heart at the thought of losing you convinced me of that."

Liam took her right hand in his and laced their fingers together. Pulling her close, they stayed there like that for a spell, till they had their emotions under control once more. Liam started talking again, reserve back in his tone. Renee tensed, until she realised that he wasn't distancing himself, he was trying to lay out all the facts for her.

"The other reason that I was scared to ever say anything was my heritage. Augur's told you how I was conceived; what he didn't tell you was what happened before that. Ha'gel took two other hosts before taking Sandoval. While in the form of one of those hosts, he picked up a young girl in a bar. He chose her for one reason; he was fulfilling a biological imperative to preserve his race. That's why I was conceived.

"This girl was his first effort, though, and his essence simply overwhelmed her. She died, Renee. A massive amount of endorphins was found in her blood, released when Ha'gel attempted to join with her. It killed her.

"I've 'joined' with another being and I've 'shared' with others. I've been intimate with others; but I've never, ever, cared as deeply for any of them as I do for you. I'm scared I might hurt you."

Hearing his concerns, Renee's heart lightened. All she needed to say was the truth as her heart knew it. She said, "Liam, there is one thing in this life that I am certain of, and that is that you would never, ever, do anything to hurt me. I trust you." She pulled his head down, and kissed him.

The moment grew more and more intense. It was clear what this kiss was leading to. Aroused as he was, Liam still hesitated. One last time, he asked, "Are you certain about this, Renee?"

Her heart in her eyes, Renee nodded yes. As if a damn had burst, they gave their pent up emotions free rein and were swept away in the passion that followed.

The night that followed was the most passionate, most fulfilling, that either of them had ever experienced. Hopes and fears were shared and barriers dropped. In the end, they were left with trust, peace and a deep, abiding love.

Dawn was approaching. Liam and Renee lay in his bed, nestled in each other's arms. The real world was fast encroaching on them. He sighed and placed a gentle kiss on her bare shoulder. Smiling, he said, "So, Renee, I'm asking you again. Will you marry me?"

Laughing, Renee said, "Yes!"

Quickly, though, she turned over and looked directly into his eyes. She saw the love shining in his eyes, and the joy she felt made her want to weep. To feel that cherished was humbling. She knew her own eyes were full of the same sentiment for him and she didn't care; she wanted the world to know how happy she was! Assuming a teasing frown, she chided Liam, "Remember now. We tell Fiona that the plan has been amended.

"The announcements and arrangements are made as you originally discussed - without me, I might add! One slight difference to the plan; as soon as Fletcher is caught, we get married."

Liam grinned at her and said, teasingly, "Oh yeah, that plan."

Renee punched him in the shoulder before pulling his head down and planting a fervent kiss on his lips.

"I love you, Liam."

"I love you too, Renee." He smiled happily, "You know, I don't think that I'll ever tire of saying that."

Reluctantly, they got out of bed and started getting ready. This morning was definitely not going to be dull.

After breakfast, Liam and Renee left his apartment. As per usual, there was a Volunteer escort waiting for them. More than a few eyebrows were raised as they emerged, holding hands, fingers meshed together. Liam addressed the escort's senior officer.

"There's been a change of plans. We're going to see Miss Smith now rather than later today. While we're with her, contact Agent Sandoval and ask him to meet us at police headquarters at noon. There has been a new development that has to be taken into account before the party this evening."

The Volunteer had a slightly bemused expression on her face, but she acknowledged the orders.

One Hour Later

Fiona - reclining on her hospital bed - eyed Renee and Liam with a curious expression.

She had been notified barely twenty minutes ago that the schedule had been changed and that Ms Palmer and Major Kincaid were on their way to visit her now.

The Volunteer who had briefed her had seemed a little confused by this last minute alteration to a carefully planned security schedule. Fiona had a damn good idea why they were coming; it just wasn't anything that she could tell the Volunteer.

She eyed Liam and hissed, "Well?!"

Liam gave her an innocent expression that said, 'Well, what?' Fiona practically growled at him - she didn't do patience well.

Renee eyed her old friend and grinned. Served her right! Fiona always took great delight in scheming to look after her. It would be so much fun to let her wonder; but, there was too much work to be done. She relented - sort of.

With her impassive 'business' face, she said, "Liam told me about your suggestion. We talked it over and I agreed. We're getting married."

Fiona looked at the pair, curiously let down. Their impassive faces were not exactly the result she had expected after her suggestion of the day before. Then it happened; Renee laughed.

"Oh! Fiona, if you could have seen your face!"

Renee dissolved into a fit of helpless laughter, and Liam fought hard to keep the grin off his face.

Annoyed and a little disappointed, Fiona demanded an explanation. "Renee, what do you mean? Why are you laughing? Liam, what is going on?!"

Taking pity on Fiona, Liam came to stand beside Renee and slipped his arm round her waist. Automatically, she leaned in toward him. They looked at Fiona, joy in their faces, and he said, "We're getting married."

Exasperated, Fiona said, "I know, I heard you the first time! It was my suggestion, remember?" Then she looked at the couple more closely and the meaning behind Liam's statement finally began to sink in.

"Oh my God! You mean you're really getting married?"

The door had barely closed behind Renee and Liam as they'd left for their next appointment of the day before Fiona grinned and let out an almighty cry of, "Yes; finally!"

One of her Volunteer guards, startled, quickly opened the door and looked inside to check on her. She waved their concern away with a grin. The Volunteer gave her a curious look but had obediently returned to their station outside her door.

Alone once again, Fiona leaned over the side of her bed to the nightstand at its side. Grimacing at the pain she was causing herself, she persevered until she had accomplished her goal. She flopped back down with an 'oomph', global in hand. Flicking it open, she input her security code and entered an unlisted, extremely secret, number. Moments later - over an encrypted frequency - Fiona was engaged in intense conversation.

"...Yes, sir. I know. I thought they'd never realise it, myself."

The man she was talking to gave a wry smile. "I've never seen any two people take so long to admit the truth to themselves!

"This is good, though. We can proceed. Liam will never leave her, and he'll protect her, with his life if necessary."

Fiona - even knowing the level of security encryption being employed - lowered her voice as she asked her next question.

"Have we discovered who has been aiding Fletcher, sir?"

"Yes!" he said, his tone livid. "It's Johann Braun. It turns out that the problems Renee was having with the approval for the new Co-Ventures facility in Hanover were a direct result of his behind the scenes scheming. He's been bribing the local government officials to hold up final permissions, while - at the same time - lobbying the German Companion to support his efforts for his company, Future Tech, to take on some of the Co-Venture research projects assigned to Doors International."

Fiona frowned. "I knew the man was scum the minute I met him. Renee sent him packing too, when he tried to ask her out. That still doesn't explain how the hell he found out about Fletcher!"

"You'll never guess whose cousin was in Fletcher's class at MIT before he was expelled after the first attack on Renee."

"Son of a..." swore Fiona. Hesitant, she tried to find a way to phrase her next question. Finally she decided just to come right out with it.

"Jonathan, can I tell them what's going on?"

"No!"

"But Jonathan..."

"Fiona, no. I realise the position I'm putting you in and I am sorry. I know you don't like lying to Renee. Trust me, please.

"I don't want them distracted till they're married. They belong together. With what's coming, they're going to need someone that they can each rely on. I will not get in the way of that. Speaking of which, what plans have they made?"

Recognising that once Jonathan Doors had made up his mind about something, there was little she could do to change it, Fiona concentrated on his last question and gathered her thoughts.

"My initial suggestion was for them to pretend to get engaged - telling only Sandoval and Detective Flaherty the truth. I know you said they would, but I never really imagined that they'd actually decide to get married.

"Their next appointment is at noon, at police headquarters. They're going to break the news to Sandoval and Flaherty there. Once Sandoval has recovered from his heart attack, Liam is going to ask him to arrange to have the Taelons schedule a press conference at the Embassy; that is where the announcement will be made, some time this afternoon.

"That should give enough time for the news reports to go world-wide. The Volunteers and the police personnel - twenty mixed squads in total - that are designated as security for tonight's party will be given advanced warning; security will be tightened, naturally.

"Renee and Liam will arrive at about eight p.m.... it's going to be a media feeding frenzy. It's expected that Fletcher will try an attack at the party; the security forces are about as ready as they can be. With any luck, they'll get the son of a bitch tonight. The engagement lasts till he's either in permanent custody or dead. As soon as he's dealt with, they'll be married."

Jonathan listened, an intent frown of concentration on his face. Fiona could almost see the thoughts flashing through his eyes. He said, "Good. Listen closely, Fiona.

"Liam can handle Fletcher, particularly with the support of Sandoval, the Volunteers and the police. Renee is to be told nothing about 'our friend' Mr Braun. I'll deal with that matter. Nobody messes with my people - nobody.

"I'll contact Renee again, after she's safely married, and tell her everything. Don't worry, I'll make sure she understands that you were co-opted into this little exercise at my direct order.

"You rest! That's an order." With that last command, Jonathan ended the call.

Fiona sat back, exhausted. She'd have a little nap. She wanted to be wide-awake this afternoon when the announcement was made. Things were about to get very interesting.

Jonathan held up a hand to silence the question being directed at him by the commander of his elite squad of 'corporate problem solvers'. He opened his global and placed a call to Augur.

To say that the hacker was surprised about the nature of that call would be an understatement. He listened though; and for once, he agreed with Doors. He'd pretend to be surprised when Liam and Renee came to tell him the news. In the meantime, he'd get preparations underway. Liam's false identity was going to cause problems. Doors gave him the name of a minister. This man was Resistance but, more importantly, completely above suspicion.

Augur would have to do some fast talking to explain why Liam was not Liam Kincaid, but arrangements would be made. There would have to be two sets of records for this marriage, the public ones and the real ones. Those ones would only ever see the light of day when the truth about Liam could safely be revealed.

Then, of course, he just had to work out a way to explain to Liam and Renee how he happened to know just the guy who could perform the ceremony - no questions asked. For those two, he'd think of something.

Agent Sandoval stood in front of the command chair of the Mothership, his mind still reeling from his surprise.

To say that he and John Flaherty had been unprepared for the announcement made by Kincaid and Ms Palmer would be an honest assessment of the situation. Flaherty had smiled, delighted. Liam and Renee had won a place in the hearts of the police involved in the Fletcher task force - and, he was forced to admit, in the hearts of the Volunteers assigned to the task force too. If he was honest with himself, he had to admit that he was happy too; and that surprised him. Kincaid and Palmer were well matched, though; and that they loved each other was apparent to all.

Now all he had to do was break the news to the Taelons. Why did he always get stuck with the fun jobs?

Taelon Embassy, Washington DC

A hurried press conference had been called for two p.m. that afternoon. There was a massive media presence - expecting there to be a new briefing on the ongoing situation involving the manhunt for Paul Fletcher. This expectation was further raised when they saw Renee Palmer, Major Kincaid, Agent Sandoval and several Volunteers, all standing, flanking Da'an.

The North American Companion stepped forward. With a graceful gesture of his hands, he motioned for his Protector and Ms Palmer to join him. He had an enigmatic expression on his face. A faint blush spread across Da'an's face as he said, "We have called you here to announce a joining that is dear to the hearts of all Taelons. It is my great privilege and pleasure to be able to tell you all of an impending union. Over the last few weeks, you have been made aware of the ongoing hunt that had been taking place for Paul Fletcher, the man targeting our dear friend, Ms Palmer.

"It is my great joy that I am able to state that one blessing has come of this horrific and intolerable situation. Ms Palmer and my own trusted Protector, Major Kincaid, have delighted me by informing me of their plans to be married. It is my hope that you will all join me in wishing them every happiness for their future."

A stunned silence filled the air for a moment before a huge, frenzied round of questions began.

Fletcher looked at the screen, his eyes full of hatred. All afternoon, the news had been full of the startling announcement of the impending marriage. At first, he hadn't believed it but then he'd paid closer attention to the images of Kincaid and Renee on the screen. It was true! The bitch was in love with him!

Looking at the array of weapons laid out before him, he smiled malevolently. She wouldn't be happy for long; he'd see to it, personally.

Liam fidgeted, fingering the collar of his designer tuxedo as he waited impatiently for Renee. Then she appeared before him and his breath caught in his throat. She was stunning!

Renee was wearing an elegant, midnight-blue gown, another gentle acknowledgement of the teasing that had made up the early part of their relationship. She smiled shyly as she saw the stunned appreciation in Liam's eyes. Mission accomplished.

Slowly, he walked towards her, reaching into his trouser pocket as he did so. Renee's eyes widened as she saw the ring box. So that was what he had been doing when he had left her at police headquarters with Detective Flaherty!

Liam hesitated. Then he did it. It was one memory he had of Sandoval's that he loved to see. His father had done this when he had proposed to DeeDee, and it was one of his most cherished memories.

Renee had watched, amazed, as Liam dropped to one knee in front of her. The great, romantic fool! She listened, a single tear running down her cheek, as he said, "Renee, when I give you this ring, I'm just acknowledging that I've already given you my heart.

"Marry me, please."

She opened the box with trembling fingers and gasped as she saw the ring inside. It was an exquisite sapphire, two diamonds on either side. It was the most beautiful ring she had ever seen. Huskily, she said, "Yes."

Liam got up, took her hand in his, placed a gentle kiss on it and slipped the ring on her finger. Then, he used gentle fingers to wipe away the tears from her eyes and pulled her into his arms. They stood there for several minutes; not saying anything, just savouring the memory of the moment as it was etched into their hearts.

Eventually, Renee pulled away and excused herself so that she could go freshen up.

On her return, Liam gallantly offered her his arm. They made their way down to their escort, completely oblivious to the image they presented.

The senior Volunteer in command of the escort was the same female that had been on duty that morning. She'd fought hard to be given the responsibility for the couple's personal escort. She watched her Volunteer squad smile at the sight of Major Kincaid and Ms Palmer, ready for the party. He looked - and this was just as an admiring woman, and not a Volunteer, that she thought this - absolutely stunning. As for Ms Palmer, she looked exquisite in her midnight-blue gown, and - wow! - the sapphire ring on her finger, flashed in the floodlit darkness of the street lights.

Calling her attention - and that of her squad - back to their duties, she signalled for the vehicles to be brought up. Time to get this show on the road. The undoubted party of the year was waiting on its star guests.

The annual Doors International celebration was - as always - being held in the centre of Washington DC. This year, Renee had selected a huge, refurbished hotel and conference centre. Doors International had representatives in the complex for the five days leading up to the party. They had practically taken over the entire complex; no expense had been spared. The huge banqueting hall was ready for the hordes that were due to descend on it. They had organised three huge ballrooms for the guests; entertainment and refreshments were made ready on a lavish scale.

As always, the employees were the main focus of the party. This was one of the Board's many ways of saying thank you to the people that helped keep the company at the top. That was not to say that the party was solely for employees. Friends and clients were also invited. The party was a chance to engender more goodwill and give the employees a chance to mix with the people whose business interests shaped their daily lives.

There was a sense of anticipation in the air this year, though. The announcement earlier in the afternoon had indeed raised comment. The employees were extremely curious to see the couple. Those that worked closely for Ms Palmer had been speculating about the Major for months. His frequent visits to her had been noticed. Those employees that hadn't had any direct contact with him were eager to see the man that could win Ms Palmer's heart. All of them were happy, though. Renee would have been astonished had she realised quite how well liked she really was. If she was happy, then the employees were happy.

Curiosity was the motivating factor of most of the other party guests. Everyone was eagerly awaiting the arrival of Ms Palmer and Major Kincaid - none more so than the horde of media personnel encamped outside the entrance to the complex.

In the Security Convoy

"Sir," said the Volunteer commander, "We've arrived. The media is here in force. Give us five minutes and we'll have them cleared back."

Liam glanced at Renee and she nodded firmly. Addressing the Volunteer, he said, "That will not be necessary, Volunteer. It's Lynn, isn't it?

"Good. Just make sure we have a clear path through. We know we're going to have to deal with the media. We may as well start now."

"Understood, sir. This will just take a moment."

She touched the comm piece in her ear and murmured some quiet instructions to the rest of her squad. Volunteers spilled out of the vehicles and the media personnel grouped at the door eyed them apprehensively. Surprisingly enough, the Volunteers did not clear them away; all they did was secure a clear path to the door.

Inside the limousine, the Volunteer commander received the all clear. She said, "We're ready, sir."

Unmindful of her audience, Renee leaned over and dropped a quick kiss on Liam's cheek. With an impish gleam in her eye she murmured, "Shall we?"

Laughing, Liam put one gentle finger under Renee's chin and raised her gaze to meet his own. He said, "Behave!" Renee grinned. Liam couldn't help it, he laughed out loud. This was going to be interesting.

Fighting a grin herself, Lynn exited the vehicle first and held the door open. The Major stepped out next and a huge burst of flashing lights heralded his appearance. He grinned at the cameras before bending down to offer his hand to the limousine's final occupant. Renee's hand firmly gripped his, engagement ring flashing in the lights. She stepped out and, if anything, the frenzy of flashing lights and questions intensified.

Liam and Renee answered a few of the questions before, finally, Liam took Renee's arm in his and they made their way towards the door, their security escort keeping a watchful eye on the media, ensuring that nobody got carried away.

They had just reached the main doors when a voice called out, "Major, Ms Palmer! How about a kiss for the news reports? Come on, just one kiss!"

Liam eyed Renee and grinned. "With pleasure!"

He swept a laughing Renee into his arms for a 'very' passionate kiss. The media laughed and cheered their approval even as the cameras flashed. Even the Volunteers found it hard to stave off their grins. The couple gave a friendly wave and disappeared inside.

Their Volunteer escort disappeared to their appointed positions. Renee and Liam stood poised at the closed doors of the main ballroom. He gave her hand a reassuring squeeze and nodded to the plainclothes police officer on duty at the door. The officer smiled and opened the double doors.

Liam and Renee walked in and silence descended. All eyes focused on them, assessing their demeanour, their attire and the ring that flashed on Ms Palmer's finger. An appreciative buzz of conversation spun round the room. The band leader - who had been eagerly awaiting their arrival - quickly had his musicians playing a slow, romantic song.

Taking the hint, Liam gave the crowd what they wanted. He turned to Renee, raised her hand to his lips and kissed it, and then he led her to the floor. Smiling, she stepped unhesitating into his arms and they began to dance. For a long moment, they danced alone. The guests watched, smiling as they looked upon a young couple, obviously besotted with each other, dancing happily. Then they joined in.

The next hour or so passed in a blur for Liam and Renee. Everybody wanted to meet them and to congratulate them. When not dancing, they spent their time circulating round the party. They spent as much time as they could together, but the demands for their time were such that on occasion they had to split up. At such times, they'd send each other glances across the crowded room, little caring what anybody else thought.

The banquet itself was fit for a king. Many guests proposed toasts to the couple. The final toast was made by a very important guest; Hubble Urick. He said, "I've had recent occasion to be very grateful to know Major Kincaid. After all, the man did save my life."

The guests broke out into some hearty chuckles at that.

"While the fact that he has managed to steal the heart of such a lady as Renee Palmer may dismay some eligible gentlemen of my acquaintance, I personally couldn't be happier. I find myself hard pushed to think of a couple more suited for each other.

"Ladies and Gentlemen. I invite you to raise your glasses with me and offer sincere congratulations to Liam and Renee. We wish you both every happiness."

Glasses were raised all around the room as the guests toasted the couple. Then the party began once again.

While Renee was engaged in conversation with Hubble Urick and the editor of the Washington Post, Liam slipped out to talk to the Volunteer and police field commanders. Since the banquet a feeling of unease had been building deep within him. When the Volunteer commander said that there were unsubstantiated civilian reports of a sighting of Fletcher, that feeling got more intense.

Whirling round to re-enter the ballroom, Liam barely heard the Volunteer commander saying that there were six squads combing the complex looking for the man that the waiter had reported seeing acting in a suspicious manner.

Anxiously, Liam scanned the crowd, thinking, Damn it, I should never have left her alone!

Seeing her walking across the dance floor, he sent out a sigh of relief. That sigh quickly cut off as he noticed something out of the corner of his eye. One of the waiters dropped the tray he was carrying and raised a gun! Not even stopping to consider how Fletcher had managed to get a gun through the security checkpoints, he raced across the room and past the astonished party guests.

Startled, Renee looked questioningly at him as he reached her. Without hesitation, he pushed her to the floor, covering her body with his own, while at the same time looking for Fletcher. He felt the bullet strike his chest but didn't relax his protective cover of Renee until he saw one of the plainclothes police officers shoot Fletcher.

Then and only then, did he sink back on to the floor. Amidst the screams and cries of panic, he heard the sounds of the Volunteer and police squads descending on the ballroom. Renee was safe.

A shocked Renee had scrambled to her knees, desperately checking on Liam. At the sight of him lying there on the floor with a huge pool of blood spreading under his left shoulder, she let out a cry of absolute horror.

"Oh my God, no! Somebody help me!"

Firm hands pulled her out of the way while a pair of medics dropped to their knees beside the Major, their haste and the looks on their faces betraying the seriousness of the injury. Renee stood there with her arms wrapped around herself, shaking and crying softly. One of the male guests slipped out of his jacket and wrapped it around her shoulders. She gave him a teary smile of thanks.

The stricken guests milled about and watched anxiously as the medics worked on the young man that had quite possibly given his life to protect the woman he loved. In the silence one of the medics was heard to say in a soft voice, "Damn it, Major. Stay with us!"

At that, Renee dropped to her knees beside Liam. Grabbing his hand, she said in a broken, anguished voice, "Liam, stay with me, please... damn it, don't you leave me alone again!"

Many of the guests and even some of the security personnel had tears in their eyes as they heard her whispered pleas for him to stay with her. Then, one of the medics gave a start of surprise. Tearfully, hopefully, Renee raised her eyes. The assembled crowd gasped as they saw the Major's eyes flicker open and search out Renee. Liam's voice, a faint pain-filled rasp compared to his normal tone, was heard to say, "I'm not going anywhere, I promise."

Renee, tears of relief streaming down her face, raised Liam's hand with both her own and kissed it gently. The medic spoke again. "He's stable enough to transport! Let's go, now!"

Within moments, Liam was loaded into an ambulance and ready to be rushed to the nearest hospital for emergency surgery. Doctors Park and Belman were already being rushed there to perform the surgery; they'd be ready by the time their patient arrived.

No one tried to dissuade Renee from riding with Liam. As far as the on-site medics were concerned, it was a miracle that the Major wasn't dead. That miracle was riding with them. Neither of them doubted in their hearts that the only reason the Major was still alive was that he loved Ms Palmer enough to come back and endure the pain he was suffering now.

While they ministered to the Major on their journey to the hospital, they witnessed the bond between the couple. Every time the Major gave a cry of pain, the tender touch of Ms Palmer's hand stroking across his forehead and her soft reassurances eased the lines of pain from his face. It was amazing.

They reached the hospital and a flurry of activity followed as the Major was taken from their care and wheeled in for immediate surgery. Ms Palmer had one final surprise for the pair. Desperate as she was to accompany her beloved fiancé into the hospital, she paused and turned to the pair. She gave each a soft kiss on the cheek and murmured a heartfelt 'thank you' before being rushed inside by one of the Volunteer escort that had accompanied the ambulance.

Raising fingers to touch his cheek, the elder of the two medics, deeply touched by her gesture, said, "Please God, let him live. For both their sakes."

Sandoval stalked through the hospital corridors with a - for once - less than impassive expression. He barely even noticed the grim-faced Volunteers snapping to attention as he walked past. Arriving in the waiting room, Sandoval sent a searching gaze over the occupants. Seeing the person he was looking for, he called out softly, "Ms. Palmer."

Renee looked up from the patch of floor that she had been staring at. Surprising him, surprising herself, Renee ran towards Sandoval and flung her arms around him, weeping. Tentatively, awkwardly, he pressed his arms around her shoulders and drew her closer. The waiting room quickly emptied of personnel, giving them the privacy that Ms. Palmer needed to draw her shattered nerves back into some semblance of control.

Two hours later, they looked up as Dr Park made her way through the Volunteer and police personnel and approached Renee and Sandoval.

Renee looked at the doctor, fear and hope warring in her eyes. Dr Park's, "He'll live," was met with a fervent, "Oh, thank you, God," from Renee. Even Sandoval's taut expression seemed to relax somewhat at the news.

"He's asked to speak to you both. You have five minutes each, that's all. He needs to rest; it's the only way that he will recover fully."

Renee jumped to her feet immediately; Sandoval took a moment longer.

Silently, they followed the doctor. As they passed, the Volunteers stationed throughout the hospital corridors directed some concerned glances at Sandoval. He paused momentarily and said to one of them, "He will recover."

The Volunteer let out a huge sigh of relief. As soon as Sandoval and Renee had passed, the Volunteer was on the comm channels and passing the news. The remaining Volunteers that the pair passed seemed a lot happier.

Then they reached the recovery room that Liam had been placed in. Dr Park said, "Agent Sandoval, you first."

Entering the room and seeing the wan face of the Major as he lay there hooked up to all that machinery, Sandoval gave a wince of sympathy. He approached the side of the bed and said, softly, "You asked to see me, Major."

Liam's eyes fluttered and he gazed groggily at Sandoval. Weakly, he raised his hand and grasped at Sandoval's arm. He had to make him understand.

"San'val, Fletcher had help. He had a gun. You understan'? The only way he could have got it through the checkpoints was with help from the inside. One of the task force was workin' with him. He's gone, they're not. Renee's still in danger. Wan' you to take care of her, 'kay?"

Pressing gently on the Major's shoulder, Sandoval said, "Rest, Major. She'll be safe. I promise. I'll find the traitor too, I promise you."

Liam gave Sandoval a faint smile as Dr Park poked her head around the door and told Sandoval that his time was up. Giving Liam a last, lingering glance, Sandoval left the room, a frantic Renee rushing past him on her way in.

He stood at the open doorway and watched with Dr Park as Renee pulled a chair to the side of the bed, gently lifting Liam's right hand cradling it to her cheek, weeping softly. They saw him gently wipe the tears away and pull her head down till it rested on his chest. He placed a hand on the back of her neck and murmured some soft reassurances.

Sandoval and Dr Park closed the door to give them some privacy. Sandoval's sincere, "Thank you, doctor," was met by a very strange glance from her.

Perplexed, but too busy just then to wonder about the explanation, Sandoval opened his global and called the Mothership. A short conversation later, he'd received the authorisation he required from Zo'or. Quickly, he placed several calls to Protectors around the world. Once he'd explained the situation, and received confirmation from the others that they would come, he pulled up a chair and took position outside the Major's door. Till the others arrived, he'd have to guard the Major from his guards.

By six o'clock tomorrow morning, the UK, Japanese and French Companions' Protectors would be here. They'd take up the first rotating shifts to guard Kincaid and Ms Palmer, freeing him up to head the investigation into the task force.

Fletcher might be dead, but whoever had aided him from inside the task force was still at large. The couple wasn't safe yet.

Doors International, European HQ

With a muttered oath, Jonathan Doors shut of the news reports that he had been watching. He'd received a frantic call from Augur minutes after the shooting; the hacker had been monitoring the task force comm channels - Liam had given him the frequencies.

The news reports had been on every channel ever since. They were made all the more poignant by the earlier footage taken. They started out by showing the fun and laughter as the couple had arrived. Liam's eager, "With pleasure!" comment had even raised a smile from Jonathan as he watched the antics of the pair.

Then came the rest. Frenetic images flashed on the screen and showed the complex suddenly awash with police and Volunteer personnel. The faces were grim, especially when the coroner's van was loaded with Fletcher's body. That should have been a moment of jubilation; the man that had been the focus of the hunt was dead. The deaths of the police and Volunteer personnel had been avenged.

No smiles were in evidence, though. The reason? The images of that were made all the more dramatic by the wall of Volunteers that shielded the sight from view. The ambulance was loaded and, through the gaps, Jonathan had just caught sight of the blonde hair of Renee Palmer as she accompanied her fiancé to the hospital.

The news reports had indicated that it was still too early to say for sure that the Major would fully recover.

Jonathan looked up as there was a knock on his door. He frowned. He'd left strict instructions that he wasn't to be disturbed. "Come."

Raphael Phillipe walked in. Well that explained why his assistant had let someone through. Raphael was in charge of his 'problem solvers'.

"What is the status of the Braun investigation?"

Raphael stood at the opposite side of Jonathan's desk, hands clasped behind his back, standing at parade rest. "We have received full co-operation from Future Tech. Once the board realised the methods that Braun had used, they were most eager to assist us. I believe they fear this information going public.

"Braun himself was voted off the board of his own company. Word has it that he left vowing revenge on all that had stood against him. The man is obviously disturbed.

"My team and I were given full access to his records and given every assistance in our investigation. I believe the board is trying to earn your good favour. They fear that you are going to swallow the company whole for their part in the attacks on Ms Palmer.

"I know you said that you didn't want to be disturbed until the morning, but what we've found couldn't wait. There is a traitor within the task force assigned to the Fletcher manhunt. Braun has a cousin on his mother's side, a Volunteer. Apparently, the cousin's family was disowned years ago and never contacted again. No contact that is, except by Johann Braun.

"His cousin is a senior Volunteer officer in the task force. Her name is Lynn Brown. The proper steps must be taken to notify the commanders of the task force. Ms Palmer and Major Kincaid are still at risk."

Jonathan Doors swore softly. That Future Tech was co-operating was good, he didn't really want to take the company apart piece by piece. Raphael's findings about Braun were worse than he had hoped for. Steps had to be taken to protect Renee and Liam and there was only one person he could call.

After thanking Raphael and dismissing him, Jonathan opened his global and placed a call to Agent Ronald Sandoval.

Sandoval gave a start as his global signalled an incoming message. Who was calling him now? He was on priority assignment; general calls were diverted to his assistant. The only messages that could get through were on his private number.

Opening the global, he was astonished to see the face of Jonathan Doors.

"Sandoval, I'm sure you weren't expecting me to call - and frankly, if I had any other option, I wouldn't be calling you. I don't."

Sandoval sighed and snapped out, "Mr Doors, I don't really have time for this right now. Can't whatever this is wait?"

"My people have been investigating the reasons behind the re-emergence of Fletcher and his renewed attacks on Ms Palmer. I take attacks on my people very seriously, Sandoval.

"We found something. The man that has been aiding Fletcher is a business rival of mine. His company has dismissed him, and they have offered my investigators every assistance.

"Johann Braun is still at large, and he has an inside man on your task force. A cousin. Her name is Lynn Brown, and she's one of your Volunteers. Find her; keep her away from Palmer and Kincaid. Much as it pains me to say this, look after Renee."

Sandoval's eyes burned with a cold fire at the thought of one his Volunteers being the traitor. "Thank you, Mr Doors. I will handle this. Don't worry; I'll look after Ms Palmer. I gave the Major my word."

With that, Sandoval flicked his global shut. He sent a quick search through the global and pinpointed the location of all his Volunteers. There was one glaring omission. Volunteer Brown was nowhere in the hospital.

Sandoval called John Flaherty and gave him the bad news. The detective looked as furious as he felt. Neither could forget that Fletcher had killed personnel under their direct command. To find out that it was one of their own that had betrayed the others was a bitter pill to swallow. Flaherty agreed to start the police investigation into Lynn Brown and her family.

Sandoval looked up as he heard footsteps approaching. He gave a small smile. His relief had arrived. The man approaching him was blond-haired, blue-eyed, deceptively charming and absolutely lethal. Christopher Moffat was the man who had stepped into Beckett's shoes as the Protector to the UK Companion and he was a friend of both Sandoval and Kincaid. They had been uneasy with him at first, Beckett's memory coming between them and the new Protector, but he had quickly gained their respect and their trust.

Sandoval spelled out the situation. Moffat nodded his understanding and took over Sandoval's position guarding the door.

"Go. I will brief the others when they arrive. We'll handle this end of things. You just find them."

Gently, Renee lifted her hand from Liam's arm. He was finally asleep. Carefully, quietly, she got to her feet and headed towards the door of his room. The sooner she left, the sooner she'd get back. She hadn't missed the look that the nurse that had come in to check on Liam had directed at her. At first, she'd been a bit confused, then it dawned on her why the nurse had looked at her the way she had. She was still wearing the blood-spattered evening gown that she'd worn to the party.

She had to go and change clothes and freshen up. Get some breakfast too - not that she felt like eating. If she didn't, though, Liam would read her the riot act when he woke up. Renee stopped in mid-step as another thought crossed her mind. Swearing softly, she winced. She hadn't contacted Fiona yet. Her assistant was going to be climbing the walls waiting for news. Renee sighed. She had to leave for a couple of hours.

She opened the door and was about to inform the Volunteer that she was sure would have been stationed at the door that she was leaving. Abruptly, she stopped. That wasn't a Volunteer!

"Who are you? What are you doing here? Where are the Volunteers?"

Christopher Moffat rose slowly to his feet, not wishing to appear threatening, thinking, Thank you, Ron. You might have mentioned that you hadn't told anyone that we were coming to take charge of the guards!

He gazed at Renee Palmer and was impressed. Liam's fiancée was exhausted and blood-spattered, but she was standing her ground, demanding an explanation for his presence. He had the distinct impression that if she didn't like his explanation, she would kick him the entire length of the corridor before she would let him cause any harm to Kincaid. Liam, you've found yourself a real lady. I hope you know that.

"Ms Palmer, my apologies, I thought you had been briefed. First, let me introduce myself. My name is Major Christopher Moffat, I am the Protector to the UK Companion.

"Agent Sandoval requested aid in guarding Liam. With the co-operation of the Taelons, three Protectors have been assigned to the group guarding your fiancé. I have first watch. The reason we have been requested is that there are still two people at large that intend you both harm."

"What?!" whispered Renee in shock. "Fletcher's dead... I don't understand. Why are we still at risk?"

Christopher sighed. A hospital corridor was not exactly the best place for a security briefing. Still, it couldn't be helped. Ms Palmer needed to know.

"The man behind Fletcher, the man who provided him with the means to target you again, is one of your business rivals, Johann Braun. He's been dismissed from his company and his current whereabouts are unknown. Much as it pains me to say this, he had an accomplice inside the task force. His cousin... she's one of the Volunteers. She's gone AWOL. Sandoval and the detective in charge of the task force, John Flaherty, are absolutely furious.

"Sandoval has called the three of us in for two reasons; to supervise the Volunteers assigned to guard you both and, ironic as it seems, to guard you from your guards. The Volunteer traitor has been identified, but Sandoval is taking no chances. If there is another traitor, then we are the last line of defence. They'd have to get through us to get to you both."

"Why?" asked Renee, quietly.

"Why what?" said a confused Christopher.

"Why would you volunteer to do that?"

Christopher looked her straight in the eye and said, "Liam is a colleague; a friend. He loves you and that means that you must be something pretty special yourself. He can't guard you himself, so we'll do it for him. He'd do the same for any one of us in a heartbeat."

Renee blushed slightly, but the tension eased from her stance. She could leave Liam with this man guarding him. Even after only a few moments acquaintance, she trusted him. A thought occurred to her. She said, "Which Volunteer is the traitor?"

"Lynn Brown."

Renee's eyes widened in shock. Thinking back to the previous evening, she remembered the fun and joking that had taken place in the limousine on the way to the party. All that time Lynn had been working with the people that had been targeting them. "I'll kill her!"

Christopher blinked at the venom in Ms Palmer's tone. He decided that if he were Lynn Brown, he would start running right now and never stop.

Renee sighed and looked at him. "I need to go home - I mean, to Liam's apartment... I have to change clothes, freshen up. I gather I need a Volunteer escort or you won't let me leave?"

Christopher just shrugged. He flicked open his global and called for a squad of Volunteers to act as her escort. His orders to them were brief, pointed and left them in no doubt that he expected their charge back in one piece - or else.

Renee gave him a half smile and said, "Thank you, Major."

At Christopher's insistence that she call him Chris, Renee nodded. "I think that - all things considered - you can call me Renee. I'll be back as soon as I can. Keep him safe. Please."

Police Headquarters

Sandoval and Flaherty looked up as someone came running in to the conference room. The Volunteer gave Sandoval a quick salute before handing him a datapad. He scanned the message and he began scowling furiously. How much more were Liam and Renee going to have to put up with?

Flaherty gave him a questioning glance. Sighing, Sandoval handed him the datapad. The detective read the information it showed and said in an unbelieving tone, "I do not believe this! What next?"

Sandoval called for silence. Once everyone had stopped what they were doing and directed their glances at the pair, he continued, "We've just had a report from the ID portal authority in New York. Johann Braun was spotted in one of the terminals. He got away, but lost his global in the chase. It's been decrypted and there are several money transfers listed. They have been traced to three known international assassins. As of now, this task force is on maximum alert status..."

Sandoval's global signalled a message. He opened it to see Chris Moffat. "Yes, Chris?... What?!

"Where are they now? I'm on my way..."

Sandoval left the room at a run.

Liam's Apartment

Renee took one last look around, as she made sure that she hadn't forgotten anything.

She'd been left alone once the Volunteers had checked the apartment for any intruders. The first thing that she had done was to take a shower. She'd stepped out of the blood-spattered gown and left it lying on the floor. Under the spray of the shower, she'd stood there shaking quietly as her reaction to what the blood meant had struck her once again. She had come so close to losing him...

Once she had pulled herself together she had gone back into Liam's - their - bedroom and pulled out some fresh clothes. She decided that comfort was more important than style and chose a pair of jeans and one of Liam's pullovers, sleeves rolled up. While there, she picked out some fresh jeans and a baggy shirt for Liam. Hospital gowns were one of the most annoying things ever invented. She knew Liam would want his own clothes.

After a light breakfast, she placed her calls. Fiona had been relieved to hear from her and full of concern for Liam. She had one piece of good news for Renee, though. She was getting out the hospital that afternoon. Working from home she would be able to deal with most of Renee's workload from Doors International - one less thing for Renee to worry about.

Renee's second call had been to Augur. Just because their leader was in hospital did not mean that the Resistance had stopped their activities. As Liam's deputy, she had orders to give and updates to receive. She had finished her call by promising to pass on Augur's best wishes to Liam.

Satisfied that she was ready, she signalled the Volunteers. They were just descending the steps from the main door when a shouted warning was given. Renee was manhandled to the ground by two of the Volunteers. As a result, she only heard the explosion that occurred.

Footsteps approached as she was pulled to her feet. A familiar voice said, "Ms Palmer, are you all right?"

"What was that, Sandoval?"

Seeing the look in her eyes, Sandoval told her, "One of three assassins that Johann Braun has contracted to kill you and Liam. I'm sorry, we just received word about the contract less than thirty minutes ago. Had we known earlier, I would have had an extra tactical squad assigned to guard the building."

Renee blinked. Sandoval apologising was not an everyday occurrence.

"That's OK. You stopped the assassin in time. Considering the warning you had, I'm grateful to be alive. Thank you."

Noticing her pale face, Sandoval placed a reassuring hand on her arm. "I'll take you back to the hospital now. I think you need to see Liam. Yes?"

Renee nodded. Sandoval barked a few orders. Two Volunteers remained behind to preserve the scene of the explosion till back up from the task force arrived. The rest accompanied Sandoval and Ms Palmer as they returned to the hospital.

A very relieved Christopher Moffat watched as they walked along the corridor toward him. Liam had been notified moments earlier about the attack and he was frantic with concern. Renee brushed past him and into Liam's room. The door was left ajar as she rushed in.

Sandoval and Christopher caught sight of Liam, raising his good arm and resting a hand on his fiancée's cheek. They couldn't hear the question he asked but they saw him relax at her answer. She leaned down to kiss him softly and, at that point, Sandoval reached out and closed the door, giving them some privacy. Turning back to Chris, he briefed him on the incident outside Liam's apartment and the new factor in the equation - the two assassins that had been added to the list of threats faced by the pair in the hospital room.

"Kincaid, where do think you're going?!"

"Ken, I want out of here. I'm no good to anybody lying about in a hospital bed."

Ken Ishiwara gazed at his friend and muttered a silent prayer for patience. Liam stood in the doorway of his hospital room, hanging on to the doorframe as he attempted to give the impression that he was fit enough to be moving around. Unfortunately for him, the lines of pain around his eyes and the tremors racking his body told an entirely different story.

"Liam, get your butt back in that bed. Now! Renee will have my head on a platter if you don't."

Grumbling, Liam complied. He shot a baleful look at Ken and said, "You know, it's a sad state of affairs when three seasoned Companion Protectors are all afraid to cross one mild-mannered business executive."

Ken couldn't help it; he laughed aloud. Even Liam gave a grin as he thought about what he'd said. Renee Palmer was many things, but mild-mannered was not one of them! Controlling his hilarity, Ken met Liam's gaze and said, "I know you're frustrated about being here. Promise to co-operate, and I'll call Sandoval. Assuming your doctors okay it, maybe we can get you out of here.

"As for your fiancée, she's quite a lady. She's concerned about you and nobody - and I mean nobody - is crazy enough to cross her when it comes to your safety."

Liam sighed. It was just so frustrating to be doing nothing. He didn't like feeling helpless, but he couldn't fault the measures that were being taken to protect Renee and himself. Sandoval's request for aid had been answered by three of the best Protectors on the planet. Ken Ishiwara and Jacques Mattilon were friends as well as colleagues, as was Chris Moffat. He trusted them with his life and, more importantly, he trusted them with Renee's. As for the investigation, if Sandoval and Flaherty couldn't find Braun and the others then nobody could.

Yawning, he curled over on to his good side and shut his eyes. Sandoval was due to arrive in a couple of hours to give him an update. Maybe if got some rest, he'd be able to convince his father to get him out of here.

Police Headquarters

Sandoval looked up from the data that he had been reading through. It was a mundane task that could have been handled by some of the junior police detectives, but his CVI allowed him to do it faster. "Chris, come here for a minute, please."

Major Moffat cut off his conversation with John Flaherty and looked at Sandoval. He recognised that tone. Ron had found something. Quickly, eagerly, he walked over to Sandoval and the console that he had been staring at for the last hour. Rising, Sandoval motioned for him to sit down in the seat that he had just vacated. He said to Chris, "Tell me what you see."

Perplexed, Chris began scanning through the data that Sandoval had been reviewing. Almost immediately, his CVI kicked in and he realised what his eyes were telling him. It couldn't be that simple, could it?

Sandoval's eyes echoed his disbelief. Chris opened his global and put a call in to the Mothership. The scans he ordered were carried out and the data relayed to the pair.

"I don't believe this," said Chris. "How could they have been so stupid?"

Sandoval motioned Detective Flaherty over and told him the good news. Flaherty gave the two Protectors an incredulous look. Finally, the break they had been looking for! He began barking orders, police and Volunteer personnel jumping to do his bidding. Meanwhile, Sandoval and Moffat were each making calls on their globals. Sandoval called Ken Ishiwara and told him what was going on. Moffat called Jacques Mattilon, who was with the squad that was accompanying Renee as she paid a visit to her office in Doors International.

Once the news had been relayed, Sandoval and Moffat joined the tactical teams as they headed out to end this campaign of terror once and for all.

Warehouse District

Silently as was possible, the police and Volunteer teams surrounded the warehouse. How Johann Braunn had deluded himself into thinking that this warehouse - property of a defunct subsidiary of Future Tech - could be used as a base of operations and not be discovered by the task force was a complete mystery. Sandoval was not about to look a gift horse in the mouth. With any luck, this business would be over by the end of the afternoon.

Using sensor scans from the Mothership, it had been confirmed that there were four people inside the warehouse. They were not all grouped together, which made things slightly more complicated. They were going to have to be taken one at a time, and quietly, so as not to warn the others.

Over Flaherty's objections, Sandoval and Moffat had assumed command of the two teams entering the warehouse. Sandoval was going in the front door, Moffat had the rear; Flaherty was in charge of the teams that were assigned to ensure that anybody that might get by them did not get clear of the warehouse. Sandoval had ordered that the conspirators be captured - if possible - but deadly force was authorised if there was no other option.

Sandoval and his team stood ready for the order to go in. When it came, Sandoval signalled his people. One of the Volunteers used a laser cutter to cut the hinges off the door that they were using to enter the warehouse. Quickly and quietly another two Volunteers lifted it clear. Sandoval swept silently into the warehouse, police and Volunteers at his heels.

The first target that they came across was Lynn Brown. She was carrying a pulse rifle and heading towards the main door. Spying Sandoval and the others, her face paled; she automatically raised and fired the weapon, her Volunteer reflexes kicking in. Sandoval and his team dove for cover. Sandoval continued to roll and, as he regained his feet, raised his arm and fired.

The Volunteer traitor was dead before she hit the ground. Unfortunately, the damage was done. The sound of her rifle fire had reverberated around the warehouse. The bad guys knew the police were coming.

Meanwhile, at the back of the warehouse, Moffat's team were making a sweep of a couple of storage rooms. There was a sudden yell and a blur of motion as someone launched themselves in attack against the Protector. Chris gave a predatory smile. Finally, a chance to act.

Almost nonchalant, he raised an arm and his attacker suddenly found himself propelled through the air to land in a heap on the floor. Chris waved back the Volunteers who moved to assist him. Instead, he waited an anticipatory gleam in his eyes and actually let his attacker regain his feet! The Volunteers and police kept a wary eye out for potential trouble and the Protector dealt with the assassin.

The fight was short, brutal and completely one-sided. Chris blocked every attack with effortless ease. Finally, the fight seemed to go out of the assassin. Chris stepped back and let one of the detectives move forward to restrain the man. In a last desperate attack, the assassin withdrew a concealed knife from a sheath in his left boot. Viciously, he cut at the detective's arm and shoved him backwards. As soon as he had a clear target, the man threw the knife at the Protector. Chris astonished both the Volunteers and the police with what happened next.

Sandoval, Liam and the other Protectors would not have been surprised what followed. Chris had been a highly trained martial artist since he was a child, and those innate reflexes had been further enhanced by his CVI. He raised his hands and caught the blade between them. Flipping it with a flick of his wrist, he flung it back at the assassin. The assassin caught it too - with his throat. He was killed instantly.

Showing an impassive face, Chris motioned his team forward. The death of the Volunteer traitor had been relayed over the comm channel. That left Braun and the other assassin to find.

The next person Chris's team encountered was an hysterical Johann Braun. He'd heard the weapons fire and suddenly it had dawned him that he was a businessman and not a terrorist. Chris eyed the cringing man with disgust. This loathsome little man was the man that had orchestrated the attacks on Liam and his lady, the man that had backed Fletcher's campaign. Volunteers and police officers had died because of this man's greed. Fiona Smith and Liam had ended up in the hospital. Chris shoved Braun into the arms of one of the detectives and said, "Take him away."

Hearing a muffled sound, Chris raised his eyes to the gantries above his head. He looked into the face of the last assassin as he prepared to fire. A skrill blast from the opposite side of the warehouse took care of him - and the gantry - and part of the roof. Chris eyed Sandoval and raised an eyebrow. Sandoval just shrugged and muttered, "Oops."

The Volunteers maintained impassive expressions and the police just looked at each other and shrugged. The assassin had been killed as he attempted to fire on task force personnel.

Sandoval walked up to Chris and said, "Let's get out of here and tell Liam and Renee the good news."

Liam's Hospital Room

The nurses on the ward had given up trying to get the crowd in the room to disperse. A celebration was underway and, given the circumstances, they could hardly fault the reason.

Renee was sitting on the end of Liam's bed, Sandoval, Chris, Ken, Jacques and John Flaherty were all present in the room. The Protectors had stopped by to say goodbye; Sandoval and Flaherty had stopped by to give the couple a final update on the matter of Johann Braun. He had confessed. It was over.

Liam was showing signs of tiring, so the others began to take their leave. In a soft tone, Renee said, "Please wait. We have something to ask you all."

Liam looked at his friends and said, "We want to thank you all for what you did. You helped us; you kept us safe. You stopped this insanity from escalating even further.

"We also want to invite you to the wedding. It's not going to be fancy. It's going to be a quiet ceremony performed by an old family friend. Neither of us actually have any living relatives, the only family we have is our friends. We would like you all to be present. The wedding will be held as soon as Fiona and I have been given the all clear by our doctors. Will you come?"

Grinning, the others nodded. Chris gave a cheeky grin and said, "Just try and keep us away."

Soon, the only people left in the room were Liam, Renee and Sandoval. At Liam's request, Sandoval had agreed to take Renee back to Liam's apartment. Renee had agreed to the escort only to give Liam some piece of mind.

It also allowed for one further request to be made. Liam had tentatively raised the matter with Renee earlier in the day. He wanted this, but he would respect her wishes. Seeing the hope in his eyes, she had said that she was fine with it. Surprisingly enough, she was.

Liam cleared his throat and said, "Uh, Sandoval... I have one more thing to ask you."

Sandoval turned to look at Liam, "Yes, Major, what is it?"

"I... we... were wondering. Would you agree to be best man?"

Surprised, Sandoval looked at the pair. Liam's eyes were tentative, like he wasn't sure how the request would be received. Renee also looked at him, eyes shy. They wanted this. Sandoval wasn't sure why, but he could see that the request was a genuine one.

"Thank you. I would be honoured."

He waited patiently for Renee as she took her leave of Liam. Holding the door for her, Sandoval looked back at Liam and said, "Good night, Major."

As the door closed behind them Liam lay back on his pillows and smiled. His father had agreed; he'd hoped, but he hadn't been sure if he would. His father was going to be his best man.

Two weeks later

Tired but happy, Liam opened the door to his apartment and walked inside. He'd been the recipient of a surprise party organised by the Embassy staff. Sandoval, Chris and the others had orchestrated it all. It had been a fun evening; not a traditional bachelor party per se, but considering most of the groom's friends were - thanks to their CVIs - unaffected by alcohol, a good time had been had by all.

Much to Liam's surprise, Da'an had put in an appearance for a short while. In public Da'an had shown approval for the marriage; in private, after Liam had been released from the hospital, the Companion had questioned whether the young hybrid had fully considered the ramifications of what he planned. Liam had been indignant at first, until he realised there was genuine concern behind Da'an's questioning. He had convinced the Companion that both he and Renee had talked about the potential problems they would face and that they still wanted to - no, still needed to - go ahead with their plans. As long as they were together, they'd be all right.

Thirty minutes after arriving home, Liam was lounging in a chair, nervously thinking of the coming day. Renee's absence from the apartment was an almost palpable feeling. They had been together since his release from the hospital, but his logical, unflappable, wonderful fiancée turned out to be superstitious about weddings! She had insisted that Liam not see her the night before the wedding - she had made arrangements to stay with Fiona. Liam shook his head in fond exasperation. Renee was a mass of contradictions and he loved every one of them.

His reverie was interrupted by a signal from his global.

The identity of his caller came as something of a surprise. Sandoval had told him where the information on Braun had come from, but when he and Renee had tried to talk to Jonathan, they had been told that he was out of reach for the time being. Renee had not been happy about that.

"Jonathan, this is a surprise. To what do I owe the pleasure of your call?"

"An explanation, Liam, and an apology. I had hoped that it wouldn't be necessary to talk to you about this until after you were both married, but the situation has changed and I've had to advance my timetable.

"I'm telling you now, but I am asking you not to tell Renee, not yet. I realise that I'm putting you in an awkward position and I am truly sorry. I'll tell you what I can for now; talk to Fiona when you have the opportunity. She has more of the details. When I explain what's going on, I hope you'll understand.

"I have prepared a message for Renee telling her everything and assuming full responsibility for the fact that I told both Fiona and yourself and not her. I'll make her understand my reasoning, I promise you.

"Anyway, the reason I have been out of reach is I was asked to..."

Ten minutes later, a thoughtful and concerned Liam shut his global. Much as he hated to admit it, Jonathan's reasoning was sound. He sighed. Jonathan was in harm's way and there was not a thing that he could do about it except worry.

Rising to his feet, he made his way into the bedroom. He dropped his global on the nightstand and made ready to turn in. Tomorrow was fast approaching. Sandoval had said that he would be by to pick him up at ten o'clock.

The church was in a quiet community about forty minutes drive from the centre of Washington DC. Renee had fallen in love with it the first time they had seen it. Liam was still unsure how Augur had managed to find it on such short notice. Then there was the minister. Augur had refused to explain how he knew about Reverend Phelps or what he had said to make the man agree to two sets of records for the marriage. Especially considering that he would never know the true name entered for Liam, not unless the time ever came to release the records to the public.

The records would be signed in private. The only people present would be Liam, Renee, Reverend Phelps and two witnesses. The witnesses were from the local Resistance cell. They had their orders. They'd affix their signatures to the electronic screen and then they'd step back. They would stand aside with Reverend Phelps as Liam and Renee completed the rest by themselves and transmitted it over a secure channel to Augur.

Liam and Sandoval were waiting patiently in a side room of the church. Well, Sandoval was waiting patiently. Liam was pacing back and forth nervously.

Sandoval looked at the other man and smiled. "Liam, will you please stop fidgeting!" he exclaimed in an exasperated tone.

Kincaid paused in mid-step and gazed at him. "Hmh?" Liam looked at Sandoval and saw the smiling exasperation in his father's eyes. He gave an abashed grin and said, "Sorry. It's just that I'm a bit nerv--"

He was cut off by a quiet knock on the door. One of the Volunteers in attendance as part of the security force to keep the media at a reasonable distance stuck their head round the door to say that it was time.

Sandoval eyed Liam and said, "Come on, Major. Let's not keep everyone waiting."

The small church was almost overflowing with guests. Besides Renee's friends from Doors International, Doctors Park and Belman and Hubble Urick, every other person was a friend from the police, the Volunteers or the Protector corps. Unsurprisingly, they had been unable to invite any Resistance colleagues, but it had come as something of a shock for Liam and Renee to discover that, other than their Resistance colleagues, their closest friends all worked either in law enforcement or for the Companions. As the leader and defacto deputy leader of the Resistance, this fact was more than a little ironic.

All such thoughts fled from Liam's mind as Renee made her entrance into the church.

Fiona was her maid of honour, and looked beautiful in a simple cream suit. She still moved a bit stiffly, but she was recovering from her injuries and nothing and no one would have kept her from this ceremony.

Renee's parents had been killed years ago in a plane crash. She had planned to ask Jonathan to walk her down the aisle, and had been extremely upset when she had been told he was out of reach and would be unlikely to attend the wedding. She had turned to Hubble Urick and asked him if would agree to step in. He had been delighted to accept.

He walked down the aisle with a proud smile on his face, a radiant Renee Palmer on his arm. She had decided not to have a formal wedding dress; she'd had that with Michael and the marriage had ended unhappily. Instead, she had contacted one of the world's leading fashion designers.

The result was truly unique. The white dress was almost stark in its simplicity. Its long tapered sleeves and billowing skirt were stylishly elegant. Instead of a veil, Renee's shoulders were draped with a gossamer thin silk shawl. The designer had been intrigued by her request. He had worked hard to achieve the design she had wanted. Interwoven into the shawl using silken threads of blue and gold was an intricate pattern of runes. Four main themes were woven: loyalty, trust, peace and love.

The only jewellery that she wore was Beckett's rune at her neck and her engagement ring, now transferred to her right hand. The rune was old, the dress was new, the shawl was blue; as for the borrowed, Fiona had supplied that, an exquisite clasp to hold her hair at the nape of her neck. It had belonged to Fiona's grandmother.

They reached the end of the aisle. Renee placed a spontaneous kiss on Hubble's cheek before she took her place at Liam's side. Fiona and Sandoval stood flanking them on either side.

The ceremony was a simple one. The genuine emotion expressed in the wedding vows was obvious to all. The rings were exchanged and when they were pronounced man and wife, more than one guest had a tear in their eye. Their kiss was tender, almost chaste. The expression on their faces as they turned to face their guests was one of contentment.

They made their way down the aisle, Sandoval escorting a teary-eyed Fiona Smith. The next step was the photographs. They caused the photographer some consternation when he asked for family members. They called over Fiona, Sandoval, Doctors Park and Belman, Chris, Jacques, Ken and John. Renee just looked at the photographer and said, "They're family," in a tone that dared him to challenge her. He didn't.

After the official photos, the media were allowed in. They had been told that they would be given this access on the understanding that the reception for the couple and their honeymoon were off limits.

This photo session went on for about an hour. The media couldn't get enough of this couple that had captured the hearts of the public. Nor could they get over the fact that Sandoval was the best man! It didn't gel with his well-known public persona.

The reception was a happy and boisterous affair. Sandoval gave a surprisingly witty speech as best man, one that had many of the guests in tears of laughter.

Liam and Renee escaped the reception early and made their way back to Liam's apartment. Once there, they made ready for their trip to their home for the next two weeks. Doors had not made it to the wedding, but he had arranged a gift. Fiona Smith had informed them of the gift when they had been discussing plans for their honeymoon. Doors had bought them a cabin in the countryside of British Columbia. It was secluded, secret. It had been fully equipped and provisioned. There was, amongst other things, a secure channel to Augur and the Resistance. It had various 'defensive' enhancements and its own ID portal. There were two Jeeps there too, for when they needed more conventional transportation.

When they had changed their clothes and were ready to depart, Liam and Renee used one of the Resistance's portable portals and headed off to their cabin.

Upon arrival, they'd made a thorough inspection of the cabin. True to Fiona's word, Jonathan had made sure that it had been stocked with anything that they could possibly need or want.

They then had one last task to perform before they could relax. Renee opened the channel to Augur and reported their safe arrival. For the next ten days, Augur would be relaying reports from the Resistance and acting as the conduit through which they could relay orders. It was not an ideal solution, but it was the best that they could hope for.

Liam took their bags through to the bedroom and emerged to see Renee staring out of one of the huge bay windows at the panoramic setting that they found themselves in. He walked towards her and slipped his arms round her waist. With a sigh, she leaned back against his chest and pulled his arms tighter around herself. Liam brushed a gentle kiss against her temple and murmured, "Happy?"

Voice husky with emotion, Renee replied, "More than I ever thought possible."

She turned in his embrace and reached out to wrap her arms round his back. She gazed up into his eyes for a long moment before raising her lips for his kiss. The intensity of the emotions she was feeling made her weak at the knees. Clinging to Liam, she could feel the rapid beat of his heart as he too was caught up in the emotion of the moment.

Pulling back slightly, Liam smiled down at her with a question in his eyes. Renee responded by raising her arms and placing them round Liam's neck. He swept her into his arms and carried her into the bedroom. Once there, he sat on the edge of the bed, Renee cradled in his arms and he feathered soft kisses down the length of her throat. Renee reached up and began to unbutton his shirt. When she had loosened it enough, she pushed it off his shoulders and began to cover him with some kisses of her own.

Her lips brushed across a mark high on his chest and it gave her a moment's pause. The scar caused by the bullet that he had taken to save her life was slowly fading. Dr Park had said that with his unique physiology it would more than likely fade to nothing more than a small blemish. Every time she saw it, though, her heart skipped a beat - she had come so close to losing him.

Liam, sensing her distress, grasped her hand and placed it over his heart. He murmured, "You feel that? That's my heart beating. I'm fine. I survived. We're together."

Renee looked at him and gave a tremulous smile, uncaring of the tears rolling down her cheeks. Liam pulled her back with him to lie on the bed and lovingly kissed each tear away. He gave her as much time as she needed and simply held her in his arms. Time passed and she resumed her earlier activity of unbuttoning the rest of his shirt and tracing a path of kisses down his chest.

Before long, the emotions of the day had spiralled to their natural passionate conclusion. Exhausted, at peace, they fell asleep in each other's arms.

Liam woke first. He lay on his side and gazed at the peaceful expression on his wife's face, and his heart was full of an almost overwhelming feeling of joy. Renee too began to stir; she stretched lithely, like a cat, and rolled over to see Liam watching her. Her heart skipped a beat at the undisguised love in his eyes. Of their own volition, her hands reached out to cradle his face and she placed a gentle kiss on his lips. She smiled and said, "Good morning."

Liam smiled at her and said, "Good morning to you, too."

The intent expression in his eyes caused Renee to look at him with a quizzical expression on her face as she asked, "What is it?"

With an almost shy smile, Liam said, "I have one last wedding gift for you." He reached out and grasped her left hand and placed it palm to palm with his own. Then, using the gift of his heritage, he showed his new wife the depth of love that he had for her. He showed her his soul.

Renee had given an initial gasp of surprise that had fallen into silent wonder as her husband showed her exactly how much he loved her. When the sharing had finished, she reached out and pulled him close. She placed a kiss directly over his heart and said, "Thank you, Liam. This is the most precious gift I will ever be given. I love you, too."