**********

The adoption agency was located on the first floor of the large office complex.  Blaisdell held the door open for Skalany and they entered the building at precisely 5:30pm.  The outer office was spacious and tastefully decorated in rich earth tones and leather furniture that Paul bet must have cost a fortune.  The room was empty except for a lone receptionist who was sitting behind a desk working at her computer.  She was dressed in a conservative navy business suit and a white blouse.  She appeared to be in her early forties, had short brown hair, and wore glasses.  Paul guessed that she wasn't much more than five feet tall, and she looked so timid that he wondered if she would die from fright if he spoke to her in a loud voice.  She stopped typing and looked up from the monitor as they approached her desk.

"G-good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Daniels," she stuttered.  Her voice was so small that they had to strain to hear what she said.  She paused long enough to give them an opportunity to return the pleasantry, which they did, and to offer them coffee, which they declined.  "Ms. Talbott is on a conference call but will be with you shortly," she informed them.  She reached into one of her desk drawers, took out some papers, which she attached to a clipboard, and handed them to Paul.  "P-please have a seat," she said, indicating a row of chairs against the far wall.  "If you will fill out these forms and return them to me once you finish, Ms. Talbott should be available to meet with you then."

It took nearly half an hour for them to complete the paperwork.  It included both basic questions about their background and more detailed queries about their finances.  The simple ones they answered without any trouble – they had decided beforehand what information to use, including Blaisdell's home address and phone number.  The financial questions were a little more complicated, but Mary Margaret was able to answer those based on the history Kermit had created for them.    

Less than ten minutes after they had returned the forms to the receptionist, one of two doors along the opposite wall opened and a well-dressed woman stepped out.  She was tall and elegant and had the figure of a fashion model.  She could have been attractive, but her high cheekbones and the way she wore her blonde hair pulled back off of her face gave her a rather harsh appearance. 

"Hello," she said, and offered them a polite smile, which did little to relax her features.  She perfunctorily shook hands with each of them, and, as was the case with her smile, there was no warmth in her touch.  "I'm Victoria Talbott.  Let's go inside, shall we?  Lynn, please hold all of my calls."

Paul and Mary Margaret went into the room ahead of her, and Victoria joined them after she closed the door.  "Please, have a seat," she said and pointed to two chairs that were located opposite her desk.  She settled into her own chair behind the desk and opened up a file.

"Based on your meeting with Mr. Beckett, he has completed his preliminary report and recommended you to our agency," she said, referring to the attorney Skalany had met with several months ago.  "We can begin the adoption process today, and as long as your background information checks out, I don't foresee any problems in completing the adoption.  That is, as long as you are still interested."

"Oh, yes," Mary Margaret gushed.  She reached out and took Paul's hand and squeezed it tightly.  "We can't wait to have a child."

"Good," Victoria nodded, obviously pleased with her enthusiasm.  She directed her attention to Paul.  "Mr. Daniels, I have to admit that I was a bit concerned about your commitment to this process when Mr. Beckett informed me that you weren't at the initial meeting."

"I'm completely committed," Paul replied, the seriousness of his tone leaving no room for doubt.  "I had every intention of being at that meeting, but got called away to Europe on business on short notice.  Jane and I were so anxious to get things started that we decided she should meet with Mr. Beckett without me."

Victoria seemed satisfied with his answer.  "I can understand your impatience," she sympathized, "particularly since you've spent four years trying to have a baby."   

"Three," Paul corrected her, remembering that Skalany had specifically told the attorney they had been trying to conceive for three years.  After seeing the calculated manner in which Victoria operated, he had no doubt that she was deliberately testing him.

"Three, of course," she said, and smiled that cold smile that seemed to lower the temperature of the room a couple of degrees every time she flashed it.  "Well, your wait may soon be over.  A young woman who has been in contact with us about putting her baby up for adoption gave birth a few days ago, and she wants us to place the baby as soon as possible.  Since the infant met your two main specifications – healthy and Caucasian – and you were next on our waiting list, we contacted you immediately."   

"Did she have a boy or a girl?" Mary Margaret asked excitedly.

"A boy," Victoria replied.

"Oh, a little boy!" Skalany squealed, and gripped Blaisdell's hand even harder, playing her role as the new mother to the hilt.

Victoria smiled at her exuberance, and this time the expression seemed genuine. "I take it that's what you were hoping for?"

"It didn't really matter to me, but I think deep down Alex wanted a son," she replied, and looked over at her husband affectionately.

"Most fathers do," Victoria agreed.

"I would have been happy with either, but I'll admit that having a son is something I've always wanted," Paul said with a grin.  He paused for a moment and then continued.  "Will we have access to the parents' and baby's medical records?" he asked.  "I would like to know something about their histories."

"Certainly," Victoria replied.  "I'll have them for you at our next meeting, and you can look them over before we finalize.  There is one thing you need to be aware of before we go any further though.  The baby weighed almost nine pounds, and since he was so big the birth mother had to have a C-section.  As Mr. Beckett informed your wife, an extra $10,000 is required in such cases in order to cover the cost of the operation.  Will coming up with the additional funds be a problem?"

"No, not at all," Paul said.  He would bet his last dollar that the agency told all of their clients that each baby was born via Caesarian, whether it was or not, in order to get more money out of them.  "Money isn't really an issue for us.  My biggest concern is whether there is any chance the mother will change her mind, or that the father will try to get custody later on.  I don't want us to get attached to this baby, and then six months down the road have someone try to take him away from us."

"I assure you that will not happen, Mr. Daniels," Victoria replied.  "We've been placing babies for more than ten years and have never once been involved in any kind of legal dispute like the one you are describing.  Our agency works closely with a clinic here in the city, and they provide extensive counseling for all of the mothers who are considering adoption.  They also have attorneys who come in and explain everything from a legal standpoint.  The parents are not allowed to sign any documents until they have received that counseling and legal advice.  They are fully aware that when they sign the papers that their decision is irrevocable." 

"Besides, we don't become involved in cases where the parents are having doubts about giving up their baby.  In this situation, the mother is a sixteen-year-old girl who got pregnant by her boyfriend.  They both knew they weren't emotionally or financially ready or able to raise a child.  Since the girl and her family are devout Catholics, abortion wasn't an option, and they decided that putting the baby up for adoption was the best solution.  The child's father, who made it clear from the very beginning that he didn't want the responsibility, was only too happy to sign the papers.  Do you have any other questions?" she asked. 

"No, I think that covers everything," Paul replied.  He looked at Mary Margaret.  "What about you, darling?"

"Just one," she replied, smiling broadly.  "When do we get to take him home?"

"If everything checks out, you can take him home tomorrow," Victoria replied.

"That soon?" Skalany asked.

"Yes, the mother has already been discharged from the hospital and we don't like to leave the baby without a home any longer than we have to.  We prefer that it bond with his new parents as soon as possible," she explained.  "All that's left is the final background check, and so much information is available on computers now that it doesn't take long to complete it.  Lynn and I will get started on it after dinner, and have it finished either tonight or first thing in the morning."  She eyed the couple with just the slightest hint of suspicion.  "Besides, I thought you'd be thrilled to finally have the baby since you've waited so long for one."

"Oh, we are," Mary Margaret replied.  "I just didn't think it would happen this fast."

"Then that should just about wrap everything up," Victoria said and closed the file.  "In addition to the money, we'll need copies of your birth certificates, marriage license, and social security cards for our records.  Will 10:00 tomorrow be a convenient time for you to bring that in and pick up your son?"

"Yes, that will be fine," Paul replied, and he and Mary Margaret stood up.

"Good.  I'll have the baby's medical records here so you can look them over before we finalize everything," she said.  She got up and walked around her desk to shake hands with the couple once again.  "Congratulations, and I'll see you in the morning."    

**********

Victoria watched from her office window as Alexander Daniels put a protective arm around his wife as they walked across the near-empty parking lot.  She was joined at the window by J.D. Crawford, who had been monitoring the meeting from equipment housed in the adjoining room.  J.D. had been with her since she founded the agency, and was incredibly loyal.  He handled whatever needed handling without asking any questions, and he knew how to keep his mouth shut.  He was rewarded very well for his devotion.

"They make an attractive couple, don't they?" Victoria mused out loud, not really expecting an answer.  "Mr. Daniels looks very familiar, but I can't remember where I've seen him before.  Do you recognize him?"

J.D. watched carefully as the couple got into a black Mercedes.  "No, but I didn't get a good look at him.  Isn't he some kind of successful businessman?"

Victoria nodded.  "Very successful."

"Those guys are on the news all the time," he shrugged, obviously unconcerned.  "That's probably where you've seen him."

"Maybe," she replied, still unable to shake the uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach.  That instinct had served her well over the years and she wasn't about to ignore it now.  "J.D., I want you to follow them.  See where they go and what they do.  Watch them for the rest of this evening and then come back and give me a full report."

"Yes ma'am," he replied and hurried out of the office before they got too much of a head start.    

**********

The Sullivan Fertility Clinic was located on the outskirts of the city on a secluded lot that sat well off the road.  Huge oak and maple trees were scattered across the pristine grounds, giving the facility an appearance of security and privacy.  As its name suggested, the clinic specialized in fertility matters, and offered such services as in vitro fertilization, artificial insemination, and other methods designed to help couples conceive a child.  It also discreetly handled a number of private adoptions each year. 

The clinic closed at precisely 5:00, with the exception of the small maternity ward, which was located on the first floor of the building.  It remained open until 9:00, giving family members an opportunity to visit with new mothers and their babies.  Despite the higher cost of the exclusive clinic, some women opted to have their children there instead of at a hospital.  It offered several advantages that most traditional hospitals either couldn't or wouldn't provide, including alternative childbirth methods.    

Jake Reed prowled restlessly outside the main entrance.  He had spent the last few hours formulating a plan to get his son back, and was going over the details one last time in his head.  Having spent most of the last three days with Kimberly at the clinic, he had learned the routine of the staff pretty well.  He knew that the babies were in with their mothers from 7:00 until 9:00 each evening.  During that time, several of the nurses went on their break.  In order to make the most of that opportunity, Jake entered the clinic at a little past 7:00, walking in like he still had every right to be there.  A lone pink lady, one that he had seen numerous times over the last few days, was on duty at the front desk.  She apparently did not realize that Kimberly had already been discharged because she didn't question his presence.  Instead, she greeted him with a warm smile, which he returned, and then he made his way back to the nursery.  The corridors were pretty much deserted, and the few people who were there didn't give him a second glance.  He stopped at the window where the babies were on display and peered through the glass.  He let out a sigh of relief when he saw that his son was still there and was sleeping soundly in his crib.

After checking the hall one more time, Jake walked to the nurses' station, ready to put his plan into motion.  An older RN named Ophelia, the nurse who had been with Kim when she had delivered, was on duty.  She was making notes in a chart and looked up when Jake approached the desk.

"Hi, Jake," she said, and then frowned.  "I thought Kim was discharged this afternoon."

"She was, but she can't find her purse and thinks she might have left it here.  Do you know if anyone has found it?"  

"No, not that I know of," she said.  She looked under and around the desk.  "I don't see it here, but let me check with Pam and see if she knows anything about it." 

As soon as she left, Jake slipped unnoticed into the small kitchen located just off the nurses' station.  He quickly grabbed the newspaper and a handful of paper towels and took them over to the sink.  Retrieving a lighter from the pocket of his jacket, he set the paper towels on fire and then hurried to the nursery in search of Ophelia.

"I smell smoke," he said as he burst into the room.  "I think it's coming from the kitchen."

"Oh my God," Ophelia said, and she and Pam both ran out of the nursery.  Jake followed them for a few steps, then turned back and went into the room they had just vacated.  Knowing he didn't have much time, he snatched his son from his crib and quickly made his way out of the maternity ward.

Not wanting to attract any unwanted attention by running, Jake forced himself to work his way down the hallway at a normal pace.  His heart was pounding in his chest as he headed for the back entrance, the one that led to the staff parking lot.  Terrified that at any moment someone would come after him, he looked back over his shoulder a couple of times to make sure he wasn't being followed, but no one gave him a second look.  After what seemed like hours, he finally reached his destination.  Letting out a huge sigh of relief as he opened the door and stepped out into the cool night air, he gave his son a gentle squeeze and secured the blanket tightly around his tiny body.  In his haste to make his way across the parking lot to his car, he failed to notice a well-dressed man getting out of a silver Lexus.

"Jake?"

Startled, Jake spun around and found himself face to face with Dr. Julian Gage, administrator of the clinic and the obstetrician who had delivered his son.  

**********

"There's a black Jeep Cherokee about three cars back that's been following us ever since we left the agency," Paul noted as he looked in the rear view mirror.

"Damn!" Mary Margaret said viciously.  She resisted the urge to turn around and take a look for herself, and then slumped back into her seat.  "The meeting went so well.  I don't understand why they would be suspicious.  Do you think they're on to us?"

"Maybe," Paul replied as he changed lanes and checked the mirror again.  The Jeep kept its distance but imitated the move.  "Or maybe they're just making sure we're who we said we were."

"Well, whatever the reason, going back to the precinct is definitely out of the question.  What do you think we should do now?"

Paul drove in silence for a few minutes, periodically checking the mirror, as he formulated a plan.  "For the sake of argument, let's just assume that the reason they're following us is to make sure our story checks out.  If that's the case, then the most logical thing we can do is go home."

"Yeah," Mary Margaret agreed, "but where's home?"

"We can use my house," he replied.  "It's probably along the lines of what they're expecting, and it's empty.  Annie's in Arizona visiting her sister, and Kelly is over at Carolyn's.  I was supposed to meet them there for dinner, but I'll call and tell them I can't make it.  I'll also ask Kelly to spend the night just to be on the safe side."

"Good idea," Skalany said, nodding her approval.  "What about the house?  Do you think they'll run a check on the address?"

Paul shrugged.  "It's hard to say, but I'll call Kermit as soon as we get there and see if he can hack into the city's records.  He'll need to change the name on the deed, and I'll also ask him to change the information in the DMV's files in case they run a check on the license plate."

Satisfied that they had covered all the bases, they drove the rest of the way in silence.  Paul kept a close eye on the vehicle behind them, while Mary Margaret stayed preoccupied wondering what they had done to arouse their suspicions enough to put a tail on them.

It was after 7:00 when they finally reached the house.  Paul parked the Mercedes in the garage, and Mary Margaret followed him inside after he had disabled the alarm system.  "Come on in and make yourself comfortable," he said as he flipped on the lights and shrugged out of his overcoat.  He helped her with her coat then hung both garments in the closet.  "I've got to make those calls.  Why don't you order us a pizza or something?  When I finish up, we'll eat and discuss our strategy for tomorrow."

"That sounds good," she agreed, the mention of food making her realize how hungry she was.  "What do you want on the pizza?"

"Anything but anchovies," he said, and then disappeared down the hallway to his study.  Once inside, he switched on the lights and removed his suit jacket and tie.  He sank down in the leather chair behind his desk, picked up the phone, and dialed a number from memory. 

A woman's familiar voice answered on the third ring.  "Hello?" 

"Hello, Marilyn," he said, returning the greeting.  "I apologize for interrupting Mitch's party, but I need to speak to Kermit."

"Sure, Paul, just a minute and I'll get him for you," she replied without hesitation, knowing Blaisdell wouldn't disturb her brother during a family celebration unless it was important.

As Paul waited for Kermit to come to the phone, he could hear a myriad of festive sounds in the background, a clear indication that the party was in full swing.  Several seconds later Kermit's voice came across the line.  "Hello?"

"Sorry to bother you, Kermit, but I need your help on a case."

"Which one?"

"Do you remember the illegal adoption agency that Skalany is investigating?"

"Vaguely.  I set up a bogus financial history for her and Peter at John Durham's bank, and fixed them up with some fake paperwork.  That's about all I know about it though.  What's up?"

"The agency called and wanted to meet with them this afternoon.  Peter was out on another case, and you had already left the precinct so I volunteered to be her husband."

Kermit couldn't help but laugh.  "Does Annie know about this?"

"No, but considering these people are stealing babies and selling them to the highest bidder, I think she'll be pretty understanding about it."

"Oh, yeah," Kermit agreed.  "Seeing people being taken advantage of, especially when it has anything to do with little kids, does tend to tick her off.  I don't like it much myself.  What do you want me to do to help you nail these bastards?"

"I need for you to make a couple of changes on those documents you fixed up.  Alexander Daniels should match my physical description instead of Peter's," he said, starting with the obvious.  "Also, someone from the agency has been tailing us.  We drove to my house to make our relationship look legitimate so you'll need to change whatever address you initially used to my home address." 

"Ok, what else?"     

Paul didn't even hesitate with his next request, even though technically he was asking an officer under his command to break the law, a law they'd both sworn to uphold.  He believed there were some situations where the end justified the means, and, in his mind, this was certainly one of them.  "I need for you to hack into the city's records and change the name on the deed to my house to Alexander and Jane Daniels.  The same information needs to be changed on the Mercedes in the DMV files, and in the phone company's records, too.  I doubt if they'll go that far, but I'd rather be safe than sorry.  And, Kermit, I need it done as fast as possible.  Will it be a problem?"

"Are you kidding?" Kermit scoffed.  "That's kindergarten stuff.  It's not like you're asking me to break into the Pentagon's files or something."

Blaisdell chuckled.  He figured Kermit could probably get into those if he really wanted to.  "Do you have any idea how long it will take?"

"I have my laptop out in the car.  Give me thirty minutes and I'll get back to you."

"Thanks, Kermit.  I owe you one."

"Yeah, and don't think I'll let you forget it, either."

"You never have before," Paul replied with a wry laugh.  "Wish Mitch a happy birthday for me, ok?"

"Will do," Kermit replied and hung up.

As soon as he got a dial tone, Paul punched in another set of numbers.

"McCall residence," Kelly Blaisdell said, answering her sister's phone.

Paul's face lit up at the sound of his youngest daughter's voice.  "Hey, sweetheart."

"Dad, you're late," she informed him, as if he didn't already know it.  "Carolyn's going crazy trying to keep the food warm.  If you don't get here soon, I'm not sure I can guarantee your safety when you do make it.  She fixed chocolate cake for dessert just for you, and she's already threatened to kill you if you're not here to eat it."

Paul closed his eyes and sighed, hating to miss out on the dinner that they had gone to so much trouble to prepare.  "Baby, I'm sorry.  Something's come up and I'm not going to be able to make it."

"You mean not at all?" she asked, unable to hide her disappointment.

"I'm afraid not."

Despite the number of times her father's job had caused him to miss dinner over the years, Kelly never really got used to it.  She sighed.  "Okay.  I'll see you later tonight when you get home."

"Actually, Kel, I need you to stay overnight at Carolyn's."

"But, Dad…" she started to protest, but he cut her off.

"I can't really get into it right now, but I'm using the house as a cover and it would work out better if you weren't here tonight.  You have some things over there that you can wear for tomorrow, don't you?"

"Yes."

"Good.  Call me at the precinct tomorrow after your last class to make sure it's all right to come to the house.  Don't you or Carolyn either one come here without checking with me first."

"Okay, Dad," she agreed without any further argument, recognizing the serious tone of his voice.  "Whatever you're doing, please be careful."

Paul smiled.  "I will.  Tell Carolyn I'm sorry about dinner, and I'll talk to you both tomorrow."

"All right, but I wouldn't expect any chocolate cake for awhile," she warned, then added, "I love you."

"I love you, too, honey.  Good night."

**********

"The nurse said you were out of town.  What are you doing here?" Jake asked. He realized how stupid he sounded, but wasn't able to keep the question from coming out. 

"I suppose I could ask you the same thing," Dr. Gage replied, eyeing the baby in Jake's arms with great interest.

Jake saw the man staring at his son and instinctively held the infant closer.  "I've come to get my son, and you can't stop me," the young man replied with a boldness he certainly didn't feel.

The doctor looked genuinely confused.  "What makes you think I'd try to stop you?"

"We told the nurse before we left this afternoon that we had changed our minds and wanted to keep the baby.  She said we couldn't because we had signed the adoption papers and they were final.  I did some research at the library this afternoon, and from what I read I think we can keep him.  I'm going to see a lawyer about it tomorrow."

"That's a good idea, Jake," the doctor agreed.  "You should know all of your rights in this situation.  I'm just disappointed you felt you had to resort to kidnapping.

"Kidnapping?" Jake repeated incredulously.  "Your nurse is the one who wouldn't let us take our baby home.  This is my son, and until a judge tells me otherwise, I'm going to keep him!"

"Shh, just calm down," Gage said in a soothing voice.  "This is all just a misunderstanding.  If I had known you and Kimberly had changed your minds about giving the baby up for adoption, I would have never let you leave the hospital without him."

Every instinct he had was telling him not to trust he doctor, but Jake felt himself being drawn in by the older man's conciliatory tone, and by the fact that he wanted so desperately to believe what he said.  "So we can keep him?"

"Certainly."

"You mean tonight?"

"If that's what you want.  All we have to do is meet with the lawyer who handled the adoption so you can sign the papers revoking the agreement."

"Is he in this late?" Jake asked skeptically.

Gage took out the cell phone that was hooked to his belt.  "Let me check," he said as he punched in a set of numbers.  "He's a good friend of mine so I'm sure he'll accommodate us if he can." 

Several seconds later, Julian heard Victoria Talbott's voice on the other end of the line.  "Mason!" he said, as he pretended to talk to his attorney.  "I was hoping I'd catch you before you left the office."

"What the hell are you doing calling me Mason?" Victoria hissed.

Gage ignored her question and continued his charade, making sure he talked loud enough so that Jake could hear every word he said.  "There's been a change in the adoption we had set up for the Reed baby," he informed her.  "The parents have decided they want to keep him."

For a long moment, Victoria was too stunned to speak.  When she finally managed to find her voice, it was low and deadly.  "I don't know what the fuck is going on, Julian, but Alexander and Jane Daniels just left my office a little while ago.  They are bringing in $50,000 tomorrow morning, and when they come in to pick up their baby, I damn well better have one to give them.  Do I make myself clear?"

"Oh, yeah, I told them it wouldn't be a problem," he said.  "We'll have this straightened out in no time."

"See that you do," she said.  "I shouldn't have to remind you of the consequences if this falls through."  She slammed the phone down before he could reply.

"Ok, we'll stop by in a few minutes."  Julian continued to talk as though someone was still on the line.  "I really appreciate you doing this for me, Mason.  Lunch is one me next week."  He paused for a moment, then flipped his phone shut and smiled reassuringly at Jake.  "See, I told you I'd take care of it."  He unlocked the Lexus with the remote device located on the key ring and opened the door.  "Come on, he's waiting for us at his office."

Jake hesitated for just a moment, then, despite his better judgment, got into the car with Julian and they sped off into the night.         

**********

Paul found Mary Margaret in the living room admiring a long row of family pictures that lined the mantel.  "Kermit said he'd take care of it," he informed her as he stepped into the room.  "He sounded insulted when I asked him if it would be a problem."

"Yeah, I bet he did," she chuckled as she imagined Kermit's reaction to Blaisdell's question.  Her eyes drifted back to the photographs that had captured her attention.  The shots depicted some of the most memorable moments in the family's history.  Among them were pictures of Carolyn and Todd on their wedding day, Kelly in her cap and gown, a teen-aged Peter in his hockey uniform holding a trophy that proclaimed him MVP, and one of Paul and Peter, both wearing their dress uniforms, at Peter's graduation from the Police Academy.  Skalany came to the picture at the end of the row and picked it up.  It was of a younger Paul and Annie, and they were standing near a cliff that overlooked the ocean.  The sun was setting in the horizon, and streaks of purple and red blazed across the sky in a brilliant display of color.  They were both dressed in white, and Annie was holding a bouquet of tropical flowers.  They were facing each other, and Paul was looking at Annie with an intensity that Mary Margaret had never seen before.  It was an expression that went beyond love and made for one of the most beautiful photographs she had ever seen.  "Where was this taken?"

"In Maui on our wedding day," Paul said.  His craggy features softened as he took the picture from her and ran his fingers lightly, almost reverently, across the frame.  "We got married there almost twenty-two years ago.  It seems just like yesterday," he said, shaking his head.  He studied the picture with a far away look in his eyes, almost as if he was reliving the moment.  "I never thought I could love her more than I did that day.  I was wrong." 

"Was there a particular reason you chose Hawaii?" Skalany asked.

He shrugged.  "Annie loves the ocean.  Even though she can't see it, she can hear the waves and feel the breeze and smell the salt in the air.  She thinks it's the most incredible place she's ever been.  When we started talking about what kind of wedding we wanted to have, we both agreed we didn't want anything elaborate.  I wanted to make it something special for her though, so, knowing how much she loved the ocean, I called John Steadman, a mutual friend of ours, and asked if we could have the ceremony at his place in Maui.  He was the one who introduced us, so it just seemed right to have it there." 

"That is so sweet, Captain.  You couldn't have picked a more appropriate or romantic place."

Paul smiled.  "Yeah, well, don't tell everybody at the precinct what a softie I am.  I don't want to ruin my image."

"Don't worry, sir, your secret is safe with me."

Paul took one last look at the photograph and then put it back on the mantel.  "I'll fix us a drink while we're waiting on the pizza," he said as he walked over to the wet bar and took out two glasses.  "What can I get for you?"

"Scotch on the rocks, please," Mary Margaret replied, and was in the process of crossing the room to join him when something outside caught her attention.  Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a darkly clad figure creep across the deck and slip into the shadows.  Without giving any indication that she had seen anything out of the ordinary, she made her way over to Blaisdell, who was standing with his back to her putting ice into the glasses.   

"Captain," she said, standing on her tip-toes in order to whisper directly into his ear.  "I just saw a man outside.  He's out on the deck, and I think he's still watching us."

Paul stiffened slightly but refrained from looking out the French doors.  "It's probably the same guy who was following us," he said, and continued to fix their drinks.  "Was he trying to break in?"

"No, he was just watching us."

"Sounds like he's been sent for surveillance," he sighed.  He pushed the drinks aside and turned to face Mary Margaret.  "We'd better give him something to see.  Help me make this look good, ok?"

Before she could ask him what he had in mind, he took her in his arms and kissed her passionately.

**********

It only took a split second for Mary Margaret to realize what Blaisdell was doing.  After the initial shock, she relaxed into his embrace, put her arms around him, and responded to the kiss with an intensity that equaled his.  When they finally broke apart, anyone who had been watching them would believe without a doubt that they were lovers.

"There.  I think that should convince them we're really married, don't you?" Paul asked.

"Definitely," Mary Margaret agreed, still a little breathless.  Suddenly self-conscious of the compromising position they were in, she slipped out of his arms and walked over to the fireplace.  "I just hope Annie doesn't kill us both," she muttered as her eyes drifted up to the mantel and to the picture of Paul and Annie on their wedding day.

"She won't," Paul assured her. "There were extenuating circumstances, and it didn't mean anything to either one of us.  I'm sorry if it made you uncomfortable, but it was a perfect opportunity to convince whoever is out there watching us that we're really married.  I didn't think we could afford to pass it up."

"We couldn't," she agreed.  "It was a great strategy, and I think you made the right decision.  I just don't want it to cause any problems in your marriage."

"It won't," Paul repeated emphatically.  He joined her at the fireplace, put his hands on her shoulders, and turned her around to face him.  "I don't want you to feel guilty about what just happened."

She looked up at him.  "Do you?" she asked.  

Before he could answer, the doorbell rang, causing both of them to jump.  "There's the pizza," he said, and turned to answer the door.

"Wait!"  She caught him by the arm before he could leave the room.  "You've got lipstick on your mouth," she said, and reached up and wiped it off with the tips of her fingers.

"Thanks," he replied, and went to pay the delivery boy.

**********

Dr. Julian Gage maneuvered his silver Lexus through the late evening traffic with the skill of a NASCAR driver.  They had already bypassed the business district and were now headed out of the city.  They had been driving for about twenty minutes, and Jake was becoming more paranoid with each passing moment.  All of the amenities that the luxury car afforded did little to dispel his unease.  The baby, who had apparently picked up on his father's agitation, began to fuss.  The infant's cries strained Jake's already frayed nerves even more.

"How much longer?" he asked, gritting his teeth as he tried to calm his crying son.

Gage's eyes drifted to the clock on the dashboard.  "Not much longer.  It's just a few more minutes until we reach the exit."  He glanced over at his passenger.  "What's wrong?  You seem nervous."

"Nothing," Jake muttered and shifted the baby in his arms, hoping a different position would pacify his squalling son.  "It's just that I told Kimberly I wouldn't be gone long and I don't want her to worry.  Can I use your phone to call her and let her know where I am?" 

"Sure, but I doubt if you can pick up a signal all the way out here."

For the first time, Jake noticed that they were getting close to the mountains that bordered the city on the west.  "Where the hell are we?  I thought we were going to your lawyer's office."

"Will you relax?" Gage instructed, as he exited the highway.  He took a right turn off of the ramp onto a two-lane road that led into the woods.  "My attorney has a cabin up here that he uses as an office when he's preparing for a big court case.  He's got an important trial coming up in a few days and he's been working up here all week to get ready for it.  He had his secretary fax the appropriate papers to him, and said he'd have them ready for you to sign by the time we arrive."

"Ok," Jake said.  He finally managed to get the baby calmed down, and settled back into the seat exhausted.  "I just want to get this over with."

Julian looked over at him and smiled.  "Don't worry.  It will all be over before you know it."

Five minutes later, they turned onto a gravel road that led deeper into the woods.  The cabins that dotted the landscape now became fewer and farther apart.  Considering how remote the area was, the road was in pretty good condition, and Gage didn't have any trouble navigating the Lexus across the terrain.  He finally stopped the car in front of an isolated two-story log home with a wrap-around front porch.      

Jake took one look at the cabin and immediately became suspicious again.  The driveway was empty, and there wasn't a single light on in the entire place.  The anxiety he had been fighting to control ever since he got in the car with Dr. Gage returned in full force, and he felt a sudden chill creep up his spine.  "This place is empty," he said, his voice rising in a combination of fear and anger.  "What the hell are you trying to pull, Gage?"

"Nothing, and I'm getting tired of all this goddamn suspicion," the doctor snapped.  He turned to face his passenger.  "I've gone out of my way to help you out tonight, and all you've given me in return is a lot of grief.  For your information, Mason had a dinner engagement and he said if we didn't catch him before he left that he'd leave the papers on his desk.  Satisfied?"

"Yeah, sorry," Jake mumbled, feeling stupid for having jumped to the wrong conclusion.  "It's just that this is taking longer than I planned.  The baby's supposed to eat in thirty minutes, and Kimberly will freak if I don't show up soon."

The apology seemed to soothe Gage.  "Forget it," he said.  "I know this is a stressful situation, but we'll get the paperwork taken care of and you can take your son home, ok?"

Jake nodded.  He tucked the sleeping baby securely against his chest, and started to get out of the car. 

"Why don't you leave him in the back seat?" Gage suggested.  "It's freezing out there and newborns are particularly susceptible to lung infections.  If he gets a cold, it could easily turn into pneumonia."

Even though Jake was reluctant to let his son out of his sight, he didn't want to risk his health.  They got the baby settled securely in the back of the car, and then Gage led the way to the cabin with Jake following closely behind him.  They climbed the three steps that led up to the porch, and Jake waited while Gage fished a set of keys out of his pocket.  The doctor selected a key and inserted it into the lock, but it didn't work.  He removed it and tried another one with the same results. 

"Damn," he muttered.  "Mason must have changed the lock and forgot to give me a new key."

It was the last straw for Jake.  "You mean to tell me you dragged me all the way up here and now we can't even get in?" he asked in a barely controlled voice.  Disgusted, he turned around and started to stomp off the porch. 

Gage grabbed him by the arm before he could get very far.  "Will you wait just a minute?" he demanded.  "Mason usually keeps a spare key on one of the ledges above the windows.  I don't think I can reach it, but since you're taller than I am you might be able to get it."

Jake jerked loose from the doctor's grip.  "Where is it?" he asked through clenched teeth.

"Over here," Gage replied and led him across the porch to a set of full-length windows that reached almost all the way from the top of the porch down to the floor. Jake stood up on his tip-toes and stretched his right hand up as far as it would go.  His fingers were just a fraction of an inch away from the ledge.  Grunting, he repositioned himself and tried again from a different angle.  

Knowing he didn't have much time, Gage quickly pulled his pocketknife out and opened the blade.  It gleamed briefly in the moonlight as he crept up behind the young man, who was searching diligently for a key that did not exist.  Without hesitation the doctor jammed the knife into the side of Jake's throat, making sure that he cut the carotid artery as he pulled the blade across his neck in one swift motion. 

Stunned by the attack, Jake fell backward into his assailant's arms, gasping for breath and clutching at his throat.  Blood was spurting furiously from the wound, and Gage could feel the thick, warm liquid running down his hand as he twisted the knife deeper into Jake's neck.  He withdrew the knife and plunged it back into his incapacitated victim, this time slicing his windpipe.  He tried to ignore the gurgling sounds coming from the young man as he struggled for his life.  It was a futile fight.  Jake soon succumbed to the loss of blood and crumpled to the ground in an unconscious heap at Gage's feet.                       

**********

Paul and Mary Margaret had made short work of the pizza, and were sitting at the kitchen table, which was littered with paper plates, an empty box, and several Coke cans.

"That was really good, but I am so stuffed," Skalany groaned, and threw her napkin into the box.

"Yeah, me too," agreed Paul, who was equally miserable.  "I don't think I've had that much pizza since Peter came over to watch the Super Bowl."

"I can hold my own in the pizza-eating department," Mary Margaret admitted, "but I've never seen anybody eat pizza like he does.  I don't see how you afforded him when he was a teen-ager."

"Yeah, he sure could put the food away.  He was like a bottomless pit," Paul said, smiling at the memory.  "At first I thought it was because he'd never really had fast food before and it was all new to him, but even after he'd been with us for awhile he never slowed down.  That kid would eat anything that wasn't nailed down, except for rice.  I still don't understand how he kept from gaining a hundred pounds.  I guess it was because he was so active."

"Active's one word for it," Skalany chuckled, "although when I'm working a stake-out with him that's not what I'd call it.  Hyper is more like it.  He drives me crazy."

Paul laughed.  "I can imagine.  Most of the time, all I have to do to keep him in line is threaten him with desk duty for a week.  That usually does the trick."    

"For him that would be a fate worse than death," she said and stood up and started clearing the table.  "So, what's the plan for tomorrow, Captain?"

Paul leaned back and stretched, and then rubbed his jaw, absently noting the stubble that had accumulated over the course of the day.  "We'll just hang around the house until it's time to meet with them, and stop by the bank and get the money on the way to the agency.  I'm not sure how long they're going to keep us under surveillance, and I don't want us to go anywhere or do anything that might arouse their suspicions." 

"Then you think it would be best if I stayed here overnight since they might follow me if I leave?"

"Yes, I do," Paul agreed.  He got up and went over to the sink, found the dishrag, and began wiping off the table.  "I know it will be inconvenient, but I'd rather be safe than sorry.  Is that all right with you?" he asked, eyeing her carefully.

"Yeah, I think it's the most logical thing to do.  I don't want it to cause any problems for you though.  Things have a way of getting around, and the fact that I spent the night in your home while your wife was out of town doesn't look very good.  I really don't care what anyone thinks about me, but I don't want to harm your reputation or damage your relationship with Annie." 

Paul smiled at her, touched by her regard for both him and his marriage.  "I appreciate your concern, but I don't think there's anything to worry about.  You and I will know the truth about what happens in this house tonight.  And so will Annie because I'll explain the situation to her when I call her later tonight."  His face darkened.  "And if anyone starts spreading rumors at the precinct, they'll have me to answer to." 

"Okay," she replied, satisfied that he was comfortable with the arrangement.  Another thought suddenly occurred to her.  "What about my clothes?  I can't wear this same outfit again tomorrow."

"Kelly and Annie each have an entire closet full of things upstairs – my credit card can vouch for that," Paul said with a wry grin, and tossed the dishrag into the sink.  "You're a little taller than they are, but I'm sure you'll be able to find something."

An evil gleam appeared in Mary Margaret's eyes as she remembered some of the fantastic clothes she'd seen the Blaisdell women wear in the past.  "This should be fun.  It'll be like having my own personal mall."  

He chuckled at her obvious excitement.  "Why don't you go upstairs and see what you can find?  Kermit should be getting back to me any minute, and after I finish talking to him I need to call John Durham, the president of the bank where Kermit set up our account.  There are some financial matters I want to discuss with him before our meeting tomorrow." 

"Take your time, Captain," Skalany said as she made a beeline for the stairs.  "I'm sure I'll find plenty to keep me busy." 

**********

Paul was sitting at Annie's antique roll top desk, the one located between the kitchen and the dining room, making notes about the case when he heard footsteps on the stairs. "Were you able to find anything?" he asked, looking expectantly at Mary Margaret as she bounded into the room.

"Are you kidding me?  I felt like a kid in a candy store!" she said, her face beaming.  She joined him by the desk.  "I have it narrowed down to three outfits and I'll decide in the morning which one to wear, depending on what kind of mood my hair is in.  Did you talk to Kermit?"

"Yes, we're all set.  If the agency does any snooping, everything – DMV records, the phone number, the deed to the house, everything – will be in the name of Alexander and Jane Daniels and will match up to this address."

"Even the bogus financial information and the fake Social Security cards he created when we first started the investigation?"

"Yes, and he changed Alex's date of birth to match mine on all the relevant documents.  He's also fixing us up with the birth certificates and marriage license the agency requested.  He said he'd have them sent over by courier first thing in the morning so we'll have them ready to take with us to the meeting."     

Satisfied, Mary Margaret let out a sigh of relief and finally allowed herself to relax, at least a little.  "I'm glad that's settled.  I can't think of anything we haven't covered, but the fact that they followed us home has me a little unsettled."

"Me, too," Blaisdell agreed, "but I think it was just a precaution.  I'm sure in their business it pays to be paranoid, and Victoria Talbott strikes me as someone who doesn't leave anything to chance."

"She gives me the creeps," Skalany said, and shuddered.  "Is there anything else we need to go over?"

Paul removed his glasses and rubbed his tired eyes.  "Not that I can think of.  Kermit has taken care of the paperwork, Kelly and Carolyn know not to come by the house until they check with me first, and I called John Durham and he said we could pick up the cashier's check in the morning."

"What about our meeting tomorrow?  How do you want to handle that?"

"We don't make our move until the transaction is completed and the money changes hands.  Once that happens, my biggest concern is for the baby's well-being.  We need to be sure he's somewhere safe before we start making any arrests.  It's a potentially dangerous situation, and I don't want him to be harmed."

Mary Margaret nodded.  "We can take him out to the car, call for back-up, and then go back in and bust them."

"Agreed," Paul said.  He checked his watch and was surprised to discover that it was almost 10:00.  "We've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow.  Are you ready to call it a night?"

"No, I'm too wired to sleep, but don't let me keep you up."

He shook his head.  "I want to stay up for awhile and see if I can get another glimpse of our visitor.  I don't like the fact that someone's outside snooping around." 

Mary Margaret discreetly looked out the French doors, but saw nothing out of the ordinary.  "Do you think he's still out there?"

"Hard to say," Paul replied, "but I think we have to assume we're being watched at all times and act accordingly."

"Yeah, that's probably a good idea."  She looked around the house, searching for something to keep her occupied until she got sleepy.  "So, what do you and Annie usually do when you have the house to yourselves?"

Paul tried, but couldn't quite keep a devilish grin from appearing on his lips.

Mary Margaret groaned when she saw his expression.  "Oh, God, I can't believe I just asked that.  Ok, other than that, what do you usually do?"

"Kelly rented some movies," he said, laughing when he saw the flush on her cheeks.  "They're on top of the TV in the living room.  Pick us one out and I'll go pop some popcorn."

"You're doing wonders for my diet," she groaned.  "First pizza, now popcorn."  She sighed as Blaisdell ignored her protests and headed for the kitchen.  "What the hell, I've already blown it," she muttered.  "Be sure you put butter on it," she called after him as he disappeared around the corner.

**********

Victoria and Lynn had decided to go out for dinner instead of having something brought in.  They had gotten a late start on the Daniels' paperwork, and were sitting at Lynn's desk, still going over the information in their file, when J.D. came into the office at half-past ten. 

"What did you find out?" Victoria asked.  She looked up from the computer screen as Lynn hacked into yet another so-called secure site.  So far, all of the information the Daniels had provided had checked out, including a fat savings account at Metropolitan Bank.

J.D. shrugged.  "Nothing.  They went straight home.  Mr. Daniels made some phone calls, and they ordered a pizza."

"That's it?" she asked incredulously.  "You mean they didn't go out shopping or do anything to get ready for the baby?"

"No.  They were snuggled up on the couch watching a movie when I left, and it looked like they were in for the night."

Victoria turned to Lynn.  "Doesn't that seem kind of odd to you?" she asked.  "They're bringing home a new baby in less than 24 hours, and they're sitting at home eating pizza and watching a movie.  Something's not right about this."

"Not necessarily," Lynn replied.  She stopped typing and flexed her fingers.  "They could already have what they need for the baby, or they may want to wait until the adoption is finalized before they start buying things.  You said Mr. Daniels seemed to have some doubts.  Maybe he's just being cautious."

"Maybe," Victoria conceded, "but I still have a bad feeling about this." 

As if to confirm her bad vibes, Julian burst into the office, carrying with him a screaming baby.  The normally impeccably dressed doctor was a disheveled wreck – his hair was mussed, he was out of breath, and his jacket was covered in blood.

"What the hell is going on?" Victoria demanded.  She had never seen her partner in such an agitated state before and it frightened her.  Julian was always so unflappable, and for him to be this flustered she knew something had to be terribly wrong.

"Take this kid and get it something to eat," he said, thrusting the infant into a bewildered J.D.'s arms.  "There are some bottles of Similac in the closet."  J.D. just stood there, looking at Julian like he was crazy and holding the baby out away from his body like it had the plague.

"Now!" Julian screamed at his subordinate.  "I can't take anymore of that goddamn crying."  J.D. wisely hurried out of the room, obeying his boss's orders despite the fact that he had never fed a baby before in his life. 

Julian tore off his jacket and shirt, leaving on only his undershirt, and demanded a trash bag from Lynn, who quickly found one for him.  He stuffed the soiled clothes inside the bag and tied it tightly, and then walked over to the liquor cabinet.  He poured a healthy portion of scotch into a glass and slammed it back in one swallow.  He immediately poured another, but before he could drink it Victoria grabbed his arm.

He gave her a murderous look, but she refused to back down.  "What happened?" she asked, although she was certain she already knew the answer.      

"The parents of the Reed baby decided they wanted to keep him.  I caught the father trying to sneak him out of the hospital.  He'd have made it, too, if I hadn't shown up when I did."

Victoria let out a sharp breath.  "Thank God, or we would have been out $50,000."

"Yeah, well, you won't have to worry about him causing us any more problems," he snorted, and threw back another shot of scotch.  His hand shook as he set the empty glass down.  "In fact, he won't be causing anyone any more problems ever again."

"Does that mean what I think it means?"

"You told me to take care of him.  I did."

"I didn't mean for you to kill him," she hissed. 

"What was I supposed to do?" he screamed, no longer able to keep his frayed nerves under control.  "Ask him please, with sugar on top, if we could keep his baby for our illegal adoption ring?"

Victoria glared at him.  "When he doesn't show up with the baby, the girl will call the cops.  The first place they'll start looking is at the hospital."

"Let them look," he said with a confidence he didn't feel.  "My staff thinks I'm out of town, and no one saw the two of us together.  There's no way they can tie me to his disappearance."

"I hope for all our sakes that you're right," she said.  Her disgust with him was clear – not because Julian had killed an innocent teen-ager, but because he had jeopardized their entire operation.  "I don't think we should all have to pay for your stupidity."

He raised his hand to slap her, but stopped at the last minute and instead grabbed the lapels of her suit jacket and yanked her to him.  "Listen to me, you sanctimonious bitch.  I did what I had to do.  I don't need you or anyone else second-guessing me, so keep your fucking mouth shut!"

Lynn, who had remained silent while the two of them went at it, decided things had gone far enough.  She got up from her chair and walked over to them before they came to blows.  "Where is he?" she asked in a calm but forceful tone.

Julian released his grip on Victoria and they both turned their attention to the petite secretary.  "You mean the kid?" he asked.

"Yes.  What did you do with him?"

"He's in my fishing shack up at the lake.  I didn't have time to get rid of him because the baby was hungry and started crying."

"You can't just leave him there," Victoria said, still furious that Julian had gotten them in this mess.

He whirled around and looked at her with contempt.  "I wasn't planning to.  J.D. and I are going back up there and taking a chain saw with us.  By the time we get through, there won't be anything left to find."    

"Make damn sure there's not," she said, and then turned around and walked back over to the desk. 

**********

"That was a really good movie," Paul said as the closing credits of The Fugitive rolled across the screen.

Mary Margaret, who was sitting next to him on the couch for the benefit of whoever was watching them, stretched and yawned.  "Yeah, it was.  I love Harrison Ford, and he was fantastic, but I think Tommy Lee Jones stole the show in this one."  

"That's what Peter said.  He tried to get me to go with him to see it at the theater when it first came out, but I always ended up having to work late."

"I know how that is," she sympathized.  "Work has ruined more dates and movies than I care to remember."

"One of the perks of being a cop," Blaisdell joked, as he hit the rewind button on the remote.  "Along with the great pay and competitive benefits."

"You forgot about the stress-free work environment."  She got to her feet and began gathering up the empty popcorn bowl and soda cans.  "I didn't see any sign of our visitor during the movie," she commented.

"No, I didn't either, but I'm not going to stay up any longer watching for him.  If he's still out there, I don't want him to get suspicious because we're not in bed."  The movie finished rewinding and Paul walked over to the VCR, ejected the tape, and put it back in the rental box.

"In case he's still watching us, let's go upstairs together," he suggested.  "Once we get up there, he won't be able to see where we go.  You continue on down the hall to Kelly's room; just be sure you don't turn on any lights."

"Yeah, it would really arouse his suspicion if he thinks we're sleeping in separate bedrooms," she said.  She disposed of their trash while Paul checked the security system and turned out the lights.  As they climbed the stairs together, he put his arm around her and she leaned into him so that it appeared as if they were a happily-married couple on their way to bed. 

"'Night, Captain," she whispered, once they reached the top of the stairs.

"Good night," he replied, and then disappeared into his bedroom and shut the door.   

**********

Blaisdell awoke to the sound of a heavy rain pounding against the windows and the aroma of something delicious – bacon, and maybe pancakes – wafting up from the kitchen.  For a brief moment he thought it was Saturday and Annie was downstairs fixing his favorite breakfast.  Then the memory of last night's events came back to him, and he remembered the upcoming meeting with the adoption agency.  He glanced over at the clock and discovered that it was only a little after 7:00.  For a brief moment he contemplated surrendering to the lulling rhythm of the rain and going back to sleep.  However, the desire to discuss the plan one more time with Skalany – and his growling stomach – won out over the temptation to stay in bed.  With a deep sigh of regret, he kicked off the covers and headed to the bathroom to take a quick shower.      

Mary Margaret, who was dressed in a faded blue T-shirt with an Eddie Bauer logo across the chest and a pair of gray sweats that she had found in Kelly's room, was sitting at the kitchen table reading the newspaper.  She had finished half of her stack of pancakes by the time Paul made it downstairs.  "Good morning," she said cheerfully when he walked into the room.

"Good morning," he replied, and headed straight for the coffee pot.  "Breakfast smells great.  You didn't have to go to all this trouble, but I'm so glad you did," he said with a grin.

"It wasn't any trouble," she said.  "I like to cook.  And since we don't have to be at the agency for awhile, I thought I'd fix us a real breakfast."

Paul finished spooning sugar into his coffee and carried it with him to the table.  He eyed Skalany carefully as he sat down.  "Where did you find that shirt?" 

She paused in the middle of chewing, looked down at the faded T-shirt she was wearing, and then swallowed.  "In Kelly's drawer.  I slept in it last night.  Why, is something wrong?"

"No, no, nothing's wrong.  It's just that's my favorite shirt, and I've looked all over the house for the damn thing," he grumbled.  "I should have known where it was.  Stealing my shirts is a bad habit the girls picked up when they were younger, and Kelly still hasn't outgrown it.  I'll break one in, get it just right, and then never see it again."

Mary Margaret laughed.  "I'm afraid I can't offer you much sympathy – I used to do the same thing to my dad.  Besides, I can understand why she likes this one so much.  It's perfect – worn, but not worn out, and very soft." 

A sad smile came over Paul's face as he took his first sip of coffee.  "I try not to get aggravated with her over too much because I know she won't be here much longer, at least not living in the house with us.  Then I'll be wishing she was around to steal my stuff."

"Oh, yeah, that's right.  I keep forgetting she started college last fall.  Has she decided what she wants to get her degree in yet?"

Paul murmured in appreciation as he got his first taste of the pancakes, savoring the bite completely before answering.  "Kinesiology.  She wants to be a physical therapist."

Skalany snorted.  "With Peter's propensity for injuries, having a physical therapist in the family should come in handy."

The doorbell rang, interrupting their conversation.  "That's probably the courier with our documents," Paul said in response to Mary Margaret's puzzled expression.  He tossed his napkin on the table and got up to answer the door.

He returned a few seconds later, carrying an envelope, and settled back in his chair.  He slid the package across the table to Skalany before attacking his pancakes again, and watched as she opened it and removed three documents – two birth certificates and a marriage license.

"Looks good," she said as she scanned the items.  "Everything matches the information we've already given them.  Kermit did a good job."

"He's the best," Paul replied with genuine admiration.    

The climate of danger and mystery surrounding the two men and their past had always intrigued her and she gave in to her curiosity.  "Peter told me you've known Kermit for a long time.  How did the two of you meet?"

Blaisdell stared at the contents of his coffee cup for a long moment before finally answering.  "He was in my Special Forces unit in Vietnam," he said with a look that made it clear no further information would be forthcoming. 

The captain's haunted eyes made Mary Margaret regret her question, and she quickly looked away from him.  "I think I'll go take my shower," she said, and got up from the table.  As she walked up the stairs, she wondered exactly what had happened in Vietnam to elicit that kind of reaction.  She doubted anyone – with the possible exception of Annie – knew the details.

**********

It was still raining when Paul and Mary Margaret reached the adoption agency, and the day was cold and gray.  Blaisdell carried his .38 in a shoulder holster, and, courtesy of John Durham, a cashier's check for $50,000 in the inside pocket of his suit jacket.  Skalany was similarly armed, her weapon hidden underneath the cashmere blazer she had selected from Kelly's closet.

They entered the building at promptly 10:00, and were a little surprised to find Victoria waiting for them in the outer office.  She was there with Lynn, who was sitting at her desk, and an unfamiliar man who was standing off to the side of the room with his arms folded across his chest.  He had a wiry build, shifty eyes, and a demeanor that screamed "ex-con".  They both immediately pegged him as the prowler who had been snooping around the house the previous night.

"Good morning, Mr. and Mrs. Daniels," Victoria said with another one of her perfunctory smiles, and then indicated the mystery man.  "This is my associate, Mr. Crawford."  Blaisdell and Skalany smiled politely and made the appropriate greetings.  The man nodded in their direction, but didn't speak or offer to shake hands with them.

"Come in and have a seat," Victoria invited, and waited for them to settle into the two empty chairs near Lynn's desk before continuing.  "Mr. Beckett has been delayed in court.  Since it's going to be a few minutes before he arrives, I thought it would be more comfortable if we waited for him out here.  While we're waiting, Lynn can make copies of the documents we need for our files, and you can look over the medical records you requested."  

After collecting the envelope containing their birth certificates and marriage license, Victoria picked up a thick folder off of Lynn's desk and handed it to Paul.  She and Skalany made small talk while he studied the information and then returned the file to the agency head.

"I trust that answered your questions about the baby's health?" she asked, with just a touch of smugness in her voice.

Paul ignored her tone and smiled.  "Yes, it did.  It looks as though we have a perfectly healthy baby boy."

"Yes, you do."  She paused for a minute, apparently debating with herself.  "How would you like to see for yourself?" she finally asked. 

"You mean he's already here?" Skalany asked excitedly, and grabbed Blaisdell's arm.

"Yes, the nurse brought him over earlier, and he's sleeping in the nursery."  She turned to her secretary.  "Lynn, will you bring the baby in so he can meet his new parents?" 

"Of course," Lynn said.  She left the room and returned a few seconds later with a squirming newborn wrapped up in a pale blue blanket.  Blaisdell and Skalany stood up in anticipation, and Lynn carefully guided the infant into Mary Margaret's waiting arms.

"Oh, he is so beautiful," Skalany said softly with genuine awe as she got her first glimpse of the baby's delicate features.  Instinctively, she hugged him against her breast and kissed the top of his head, which was covered with a sprinkling of soft, fine hair.  "Look, darling, isn't he just precious?"

Blaisdell, who was standing behind his partner, put his hands on her shoulders and looked down at the baby.  "Yeah, he sure is."  He reached down and stroked the infant's cheek and then touched his hand, smiling when the baby grasped his finger.  "This little guy already has a strong grip.  I think we've got ourselves a basketball player, sweetheart," he said with just the right amount of pride, and dropped an affectionate kiss into Mary Margaret's hair for good measure.

She turned and looked at him, her face positively glowing, and then focused her attention on Victoria.  "Thank you so much for making this possible.  We can't tell you what it means to us to finally have a baby of our own."

"That's what we're here for," said Victoria, who had completely bought their act as the proud parents of the newborn.  She smiled at the couple, and this time it seemed sincere.  "Mr. Beckett should be here shortly.  Why don't you let Lynn take the baby back into the nursery and get him ready to go?  Then, when all the legal work is finished, you can take him home without any further delay."  

"I hate to give him up, even for a minute," Skalany pouted, "but I guess I can if it means we can take him home sooner."  She kissed the infant once more before reluctantly turning him back over to Lynn, and then watched them with a wistful expression until they disappeared into the next room. 

"Have you decided on a name yet?" Victoria asked once they had settled back into their seats.

There was a brief pause as Blaisdell and Skalany looked at each other, trying hard not to appear as if they'd been caught off guard by the question.  With all of their careful planning, this was one subject they had never discussed and neither knew quite what to say. 

"Dylan," Mary Margaret finally replied. 

"Thomas," Paul said at the exact same moment.

Victoria looked at them, clearly perplexed.

"Dylan Thomas," Skalany explained without missing a beat, and laughed.  "We still can't agree on what to call him."  

"Well, both are excellent choices," Victoria said diplomatically.  "I'm sure whichever one you decide to use will…" her voice broke off as the door swung open and a well-dressed man carrying a briefcase walked into the room, brushing rain off of his coat.

"Sorry I'm late," he said, obviously distracted by damage the weather had done to his attire.  Without looking up, he wiped his feet on the welcome mat.  Then, he set his briefcase down and removed his overcoat before finally turning his attention to the others in the room.  "I got held up in court, and this weather…" he stopped in mid-sentence when he saw Paul.  "What… what's he doing here?" he blurted out, and looked at Victoria in confusion.   

Paul saw the flash of recognition in Mason Beckett's eyes and realized their cover had just been blown all to hell.  Without hesitation, he jumped to his feet and went after Crawford, deciding he posed the biggest threat.  J.D. immediately reached for his gun, but Blaisdell managed to grab his hand before he could fire it.  With a vicious yank, the ex-mercenary twisted his adversary's wrist until he dropped the weapon.  Now that he had disarmed him, Paul didn't waste any time putting him away.  Two quick blows, one to the mouth and one just under his left eye, and J.D. was out like a light. 

The minute Victoria realized what was happening, she tried to slip out of the office unnoticed, but Skalany blocked her escape and greeted her with an impertinent grin.  "Going somewhere?" she asked. 

Wild-eyed, Victoria looked around for another way out, but there wasn't one.  Knowing she was trapped, she lunged at Mary Margaret with a maniacal cry, and they crashed to the floor.  They struggled ferociously, scratching and biting and kicking, until Skalany finally managed to gain the upper hand.  She was reaching for her handcuffs when Talbott broke free from Skalany's grasp and clawed the detective in the face, digging her nails deep into her skin and raking them savagely down her left cheek.

"Shit!" Mary Margaret growled.  She ignored both the pain and the blood running down the side of her face and stayed focused on her foe.  The blow made her furious, and the extra adrenaline allowed her to once again subdue the much taller woman.  Skalany belted her hard across the jaw with her fist, twice, and then rolled her over onto her stomach.  Then she jerked Victoria's arms behind her back and slapped the cuffs on her before she had a chance to mount another attack.       

As soon as he had taken care of Crawford, Blaisdell focused his attention on Beckett, who had turned to flee the minute he saw J.D. go down.  However, the attorney had waited just a second too late to make his move, and Paul was able to tackle him right before he made it out the door.    

Beckett didn't put up much of a fight, not after seeing what Blaisdell had done to Crawford, and Paul hauled him to his feet at about the same time Skalany was finishing up with Victoria.  Letting out a deep sigh of relief that the operation was finally over, Paul ran the back of his hand across his mouth and turned to congratulate his detective on a job well done.  What he saw stopped him dead in his tracks – Lynn was standing in the doorway of the nursery with a gun pointed directly at Mary Margaret, getting ready to pull the trigger.

"No!" he screamed, and instinctively rushed towards Skalany, grabbing her in his arms and pulling her down with him just as a shot rang out.  Paul heard the sound of the gun's report at almost the exact same moment he felt a searing pain in his back as the bullet ripped into his flesh and he collapsed onto the floor.