Chapter 6

Arthur Grey, sat at his desk, his head in his hands, once again regretting the lack of sleep his pain wracked body had enjoyed in the last few weeks, since information was linked to the Network through the work of a few well placed and deeply undercover agents that there

would be a strike against not only Joe and his family but perhaps the nation as well. Folders littered Grey's large oak desk, each filled with page after page of documents and surveilance photo's, each an important part of an intricate puzzle. The only problem was that the people he worked for was not yet exactly sure when they would make a major strike or for that matter just what part Joe Hardy is supposed to play in this whole mess," unless ofcourse his involvement was just a coincidence?" Arthur Grey pondered while admitting

that it would 'kill two birds with one stone' if the Assassins used poor Joe in a plot to propell the Miller family into the political spotlight, but why go through all the trouble of replacing the boy once again with an imposter when they could have simply discredited him and his family and then iliminate him at any time. Apparently the Assassins were not done with our boy. Joseph Hardy had not alway's been on the top of his list of favorite people true, but he was a good kid from a good family and from the moment they met, Grey knew that he was quite an interesting young scamp. Grey also believed that Joe and his older brother Frank,who in his opinion was the more

agreeable of the two,had an extremely incredible future ahead of him..that was if they could only manage to stay alive and enjoy it.  

Meanwhile the real Joe Hardy had not yet revived, his forehead had felt extremely hot to the touch and Charity noticed that he was soaked with sweat. Charity used the cool water she had managed to smuggle in to once again attempt to cleanse Joe's limp form until

finally he began to stir, Charity let out a thankfull breath and reached over to pull the wool blanket further over his now shaking body.

Joe's teeth had begun to chatter as well, causing Charity to deduce that he must have developed an infection, probably from the hell

her so called "father" Al Roussasa and his men inflicted upon him. She also realized that if she did not get him some medical attention soon Joe might possibly die. Joe tried to speak however between the chattering teeth and his still scratchy throat, it was not much more than a squeak which managed to escape past his swollen lips. Charity came closer toward him and held him close in an efort to

share some of her own body heat and hopefully try to calm him for he seemed to be getting delirious and agitated as well.  

"Shh..Joe it's alright,you've got to calm yourself down!" She quietly exclaimed. He continued thrashing around for a while then all of a

sudden he stopped. Charity thought that he must have passed out again, but as she raised her head to look up at him she noticed that

he was staring calmy down at her as she continued to hold on to him as if for dear life. She had to almost laugh as she saw his puzzled

look then quickly let go blushing slightly as she came to realize that she had been holding him perhaps just a little closer than she had

planned. Joe also blushed at the revealation then his smile turned into a confused frown as he tried to sit up. Joe silently looked around the dank, dark and moldy room, his gaze fell atlast unto the now empty shackles which still hung from the ceiling, he involuntarilly let

out a shudder which quickly raced down his spine. His eye's again turned to lock onto Charity's in a puzzling but silent gaze which made

her worry that he was once again unable to speak. That was until he finally did speak.  

"what the heck is happening?!" He asked, his voice still scratchy. Her heart went out to the handsome boy beside her. 

"You don't remember?" She asked, he shook his head his usually sparkling sapphire eyes took on a look of fear and confusion she tried to assure him that everything would be alright but unfortunatly Charity Butler was not so sure it would be for any of them, she did not know exactly what her father had planned next for Joe or how he would react when or if rather he hears that she betrayed him but she had already decided that it might be best if she didn't let her 'patient' know just how terrified she was for both their lives.  

"Umm...nope, I am trying but it is only giving me a killer headache, by the way ouch!" Joe answered. 

"Here maybe this will help" she volunteered as she moved in behind him,then placing her hands on each side of his blond head , her fingers then began to expertly dance around his tortured skull,being very carefull to avoid pressing too hard on any of his too much to numberous bruises and abbrasions. Obviously enjoying the massage, Joe allowed himself to relax and could feel the pain and stress of the situation seem to melt away, if if he knew it would only be temporary. Joe was so lulled by the situation that he instinctively leaned

back to rest on Carity's chest. Joe felt like he might actually fall into that deep restfull sleep which seemed to alway's allude him. His eye's began to droop and his senses stir. Joe finally gave into his exaustion and was soon half alseep in Charity's warm embrace. His

thoughts turning into dreams, dreams of Frank and him scuba diving and having fun on thier last summer vacation, the first one they had been able to fully enjoy alone and without any trouble at all. Then Joe dreampt of the two love's of his life, The one he lost and the

one he found. He smiled as he contiued to enjoy this beautiful dream filled with love and serenity. Joe saw Iola Morton as the love who he thought was lost to him forever, she was dressed in a light pink and white lace gown and was surrounded by the most beautifull aura of pure light that Joe had ever seen, She waved to him nugging him closer to the lovely tall willowy blonde girl who looked incredible in a very stylish red mini dress, in her hand she held a single red rose. Joe gazed up at Iola for a second as if he was asking his first love to forgive him, Iola's light burned brighter as she nodded smiling silently while nudging Joe closer and closer to Vanessa. Joe came over to Vanessa who reached out to take his hand, she too smiled brightly, the rose she held in her hand now touched his cheek where a tear of remorse had fallen, for Iola' s sake. Like magic the tear seemed to disapear. Joe took this beautifull blonde girl in his arms and held her chin gently quiding her lips to his, it was the sweetest tasting kiss he had ever remembered experiencing. Joe wanted more than anything to stay right there forever, with the woman he loved, but when he opened his eye's during the kiss he was shocked to find that the blonde hair had suddenly turned bright read and that the lips which had belonged to Vanessa Bender were now on the one's owned by Charity Butler!!  

beyond the prison walls, a figure had been observing Joe and Charities every move. They were not quite sure how to react or for that matter how to proceed with this information. It was clearly obvious that Charity was getting pretty little butt in more trouble than she ever bargained for this was not good, the person thought, fighting back the incredible urge to rush in their and slap some sense into the

stupid twit! However, that was one of the mysteries, Charity was not a twit,indeed the girl had many times proven just how smart and clever she really was, thus giving her parents reason to be proud, But this time she went way too far. What on earth was she thinking

the person thought silently. finally seeing no other choice the mystery figure turned on their heels and left the room determined to get

to the bottom of this, yet still hoping to God that they didn't all get killed in the process.    

"Joe Hardy sat staring out the front seat window of his mothers black SUV as she pulled into the Bayport High parking lot. He was not yet sure how the students were going to react or say on his return to class. He had of course been well trained and conditioned to be

exactly like Joe Hardy in almost every way possible, but still he wondered what his own reaction to the other students in the school might be. He had read the dossier and seen the pictures and videos of Joe, his brother, friends and other important aspects in what is supposed to be now his own life, yet there was still a lingering resentment that he might quite possibly never be able to return to his old one. Sometimes he felt a hatred for the man who forced him to live this lie, and at times he felt a surge of loyalty and devotion toward

him which he never quite understood. He also vowed that if the man whom he called his father even thought about hurting his sister like he had their mother than there would be hell to pay, and the young man known once as Paul Butler would stop at nothing to get revenge from the monster who raised them both!! 

Chapter 7

Carmen Miller was furious! He had been reading the Bayport Times which had once again headlined that the Miller campaign had taken a fierce blow after the whole "Joe Hardy fiasco". The lead story of course was an update of the events of the past few days including the

recent standings of the political polls which the paper ran since the compaign began. The town of Bayport it seemed, had decided atleast according to the local polls, to remain loyal to their local heroes the Hardys and had infact demonstrated this by the rapidly decreasing

percentage of supporters for the Miller camp. Miller cursed for the umpteenth time that morning as he tossed his coffe mug across the room narrowingly missing his cheif aide Devon Scott as she walked toward him.

"Ah, Carmen I see you don't much care for the coffee today" She said sarcasticlly, Miller glared at the striking Blonde woman who was perhaps his most trusted confidant. He had no idea that she was also infact yet another deadly member of the Assassins.

"Stow it Dev, I am not in the mood for dry humor" He exclaimed while throwing his paper down on the table in another fit of anger.

Devon sighed and shook her head, this was going to be a long day. " Listen, Carmen hon, don't go getting yourself all worked up it is still early in the race to panic and there are some really big suprises in store the people of Bayport and the whole damned country as well. So

just do your part, kiss the people's butts and do the usual politician thing alright, just leave the hard work to me and the spin doctors."

"Alright, but I am not going to be the laughing stock of Bayport or for that matter anywhere, these mysterious backers better know what they are doing Dev or so help me" He warned.

She walked behind him and began to massage his shoulders secretly wanting to instead grab onto this pompus fools neck and squeeze the life out of him, But it was not in the job description just yet.

"Mmm...That feels good hon, have I shown my appreciation for your presence in my life recently? " He asked, She smiled, continuing the massage. Devon bent her lips to his ear.

"Nope, I was wondering if you even did appreciate me? " She replied.

"Where is my wife and son right now?" He asked in a hoarse voice. She frowned and rolled her green almond shaped eyes. The last thing she wanted to hear at that moment was him asking about his family. This man was a jerk but he was also quite a lover and she was really hoping that he would once again prove that fact.

" Actually right now they should be headed to Bayport High, It seems that Joe Hardy was granted an audience with the principal and members of the school board in an attempt to see if the young man should be allowed back to class. So of course...." She began but

Carmen knowing his wife finished for her.

"Of course Sharon took it upon herself to see to it that she be present to demand that Bradly have the same opportunity, or to even try to block them from allowing Joe back in? " He finished, not sure what to make of the eventual outcome of that one. But it was not the

most important thing on his egotistical mind right now. Carmen Miller disengaged the soft but expertly trained hands that worked their magic on his stressed out kneck, causing Devon to stare at him in suprise and perhaps dissapointment until he went to the door and in

a sweeping motion locked it before returning to his desk and hitting the call button on his phone to alert his secretary Beverly to "hold

all his calls", then Carmen came over to the somewhat startled beautifull woman before him and engulfing her with his mouth. She had

struggled for a second trying to gather her whits about her but soon had joined her "Boss" in the obvious passion which claimed them both.

The Scene outside of Bayport High School was not quite unexpected. There had been rumors flying all morning long that Both Joe and Brad Miller would be given the chance to meet with the School board and Principal Smithers. Frank Hardy had not seen his "Brother"

as of yet, however he was well aware of the media circus which had invaded the parking lot hoping for a story. One of the boys good

friends Liz Webling had already begged Frank for an exclusive. Frank really liked Liz who was his girlfriend's best friend, But he was not sure just how much he would be allowed to admit to the public. Beside's Frank was not willing to risk hurting his little Brother. Joe had been through just so much lately and deserved a break. Frank also realized that he too perhaps needed to stop and figure out a few of his own fears and doubts and find his own peace of mind, Howver one thing was certain, He was never going to allow anything or one for that matter hurt his brother like this again! He had been walking to his third period class when he passed the front office. Frank could not believe the amount of press which had gathered and was now clamoring at the office door, He stopped short hoping that they did not notice him, but it was too late a few reporters, some local ones he recognized had spotted him and begun to converge upon him firing off a volley of questions. Before Frank could catchhis breath long enough to answer or "no comment" even one there was a bellow from behind the group.

"Ahem..." The loid voice interrupted causing the crowd to freeze and turn toward the voice, which belonged to none other than Chief

Ezra Collig. " alright people,break it up. Mr. Hardy don't you have a class you are going to be late for?" Ezra said. Frank nodded in

appreciation and raced off before anyone could react. The cheif read a short statement prepared by the Hardy family and promised to

personally lead the investigation into the Weignright bombing. Frank could not quite make out anything further for he had reached his next class and had slipped in hoping that his teacher would not notice his tardiness.

"Mr. Hardy, so good of you to join us, I take it you had a little detour problem?" The teacher asked quietly as she walked down the isle,

fully aware of the media blitz which took place just down the hall. Frank smiled sheepishly, he hated the attention, but most of all he hated that his brother was stuck in the middle of it all. Callie reached over and gave his arm a reassuring squeeze. He turned to shoot his girlfriend a gratefull smile, only to be greeted by the towering figure of his teacher Miss Moore.

"I am sorry Miss Moore, I had no idea that they would be there, I was hoping to catch a glimpse of my brother though to wish him luck but the media just kinda ambushed me on my way to class. "

"Ya know, If anyone else told me that excuse for being late to class I would write them up" She commented. This got the class into a fit of laughter which only ceased after she raised her hand for them to do so. Frank blushed and buried his head in his hands. Despite his

rather high profile life, Franklin Fenton Hardy was not used to the limelight and almost never encouraged it. Joe on the other hand was

drawn to it and it seemed to embrace him. Joe was the local golden boy, well, atleast he was until the recent fiasco concerning Brad Miller whom Frank was really hoping to run into or was he? Frank worried that something inside him might just snap if he came face to

face with that jerk Miller. But Frank also realized that that was just what got Joe and them all into this whole mess in the first place.

Inside the Principal's office paul Butler acting as Joe was growing increasingly restless, He was well aware that the real Joe Hardy had quite a hot headed temper but he also suffered from hyperactivity, well atleast a low threashold of boredom and impatience. He tried to react in the same manner that the original Joseph would and so far had been doing a bang up job of it, But the waiting really Was getting the better of him Laura Hardy shook her head as she watched the teenager she believed to be her youngest son shifting in his seat in a rather uncomfortable fashion. She could not stop recalling the scene in the laundry room where she had allowed her self to loose it. Laura was just gratefull that she was alone during her mini- break down, yet the reason behind it still haunted her. Of course she was worried, she had once again almost lost her family and still possibly could but the danger had been once again diverted for the moment and she should be exstatic that her family was back together. But she just could not help but worry that it was not over and that something was out of place, as if something very important in her life was missing. But she did not get the time to comtemplate this dilema for too long for the door to the office finally opened and the group was asked to come in. Laura once again pushed her fears

behind her and went over to sit next to her son, her hand reaching over to rest on his in an effort of support. Joe/Paul did not fail to be

impressed or comforted by her motherly affection in fact he welocmed it with a gentle return squeeze of assurance.

Chapter Eight:

The group was issued into the principal's private office. A scene all too familiar to a determined yet concerned Laura Hardy. Joe/Paul looked over in quiet concern as the woman took a moment to massage her still aching head where she was injured. He frowned at the fact that she still wore a cast on her arm because of the injury she suffered after the wieghnright clinic exploded. It made him actually feel anger toward his employers because of the fact that this woman had been so good to him. Paul also knew that he had better get

his emotions under control because he had a job to do, one which could cost him not only his life but his sister's as well. He had to also

remember that she thought that he was actually her beloved son Joseph. Paul took a moment to ponder the fact that it was all too easy

to fool the Hardy Family question was however, why and how could they be so easily fooled? Paul found that once again his sympathy went out to the person he was "portraying". Did his family really even know him at all or was something else going on which had caused them all to so readily accept this stranger into their lives and hearts as their own. Pauls thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. The Principal excused herself and went to answer it. The door opened to reveal Marrissa Chetwynde. After a somewhat hushed

conversation at the door, the Principal finally ushered the striking ebony skinned woman into the room. Marrissa looked at the group which consisted of Paul,Laura,Chester Morton Sr., Cheif Collig, Mrs. Miller and her son Bradley. Sharon had opted to act as her own son's alegal council. She was just as determined as Mrs. Hardy to see that her own son be returned to school and had even conceded that the

boy's behavior might have been somewhat inappropriate. As soon as Mrs. Miller had been informed that the school commitee had not only chosen Mr. Morton as their representative, but that he was a very close friend of the Hardy's she knew she could not miss this meeting. Beside's she wanted to put this ugly mess behind her family and return to her husband's campaign. She was not too thrilled that the recent "incidents" have led to a decline in the polls and if she was upset than her husband must be furious!

"Excuse me but miss Chetwynde would like a quick word alone with her client" Principal Smithers told them. Laura started to get up and follow Paul/Joe and his lawyer out into the outer office but Paul held his hand up.

"Mom if it's alright I would like to talk to her alone, I promise I will call you if I need you" He said with a quick squeeze of her hand. She

reluctantly shook her head wondering what he could possibly need to discuss with out her presence. Once alone in the next office Paul turned to Marissa with a questioning look.

" Well?" He asked, the woman whose long black locks hung down her back in a lusturous pony tail just stared at him for a moment.

"I can't get over how well the surgery went" She commented suddenly causing him to place a hand over her full lips and direct her as far from the door as possible.

"Shh..." He hissed. "Do you want to ruin everything?!" He exclaimed quietly.

"Oh calm down Jr. you know, I am far from new to these assaignments. I am however, still impressed with the way you have been able to convince of all people that you are their beloved "baby boy" Joseph.

"Actually, that is a good question, but what I am most concerned about is how long I can keep it up. "

"You know how these things work, You may never get to return to your former exsistance Paul"

"Shh..are you trying to blow my cover woman? You do know that If I fail in this assignment it will most likely mean my death!?"

" I do not envy you. have you heard from your sister Charity Rose yet?" She asked.

" No and I don't like that fact at all" Paul stated frowning.

"Ok, I'll see what I can do to find her, But you do realize that she is probably where ever the real Joe Hardy is being held. You do know what you are supposed to do right?"

"Of course I do Rissa! I am to contiue this role playing farce until the 'Boss' tells otherwise, mean-while you and your contacts are to get my sister away from that crazy bitch we call a mother. "

" Whoa! Mrs. Hardy must have really shown you what you are missing. " She exclaimed. She quickly got serious again.

"Listen we have to get back in there and get you out of this particular mess. We must get "Joe Hardy " back into as normal life as possible or his family might suspect something is a miss not to mention the Assassins" She instructed.

"But what about the Miller family, won't they be a problem?" Paul asked. she sighed.

" We are taking steps to take care of that part of the deal, you just fulfill yours. Remember there are lives depending on your performance including your sister, The real Joe Hardy and of course your own as well. And also Remember the Hardy family's rep is a well earned one and they will get suspicious if you mess up in any way am I clear on this?" She warned. Paul nodded. The two returned to join the others who had been already dicussing the problem.

About a half an hour later the Principals door once again opened and the group began to pour out, Marissa had indeed fulfilled her part of the bargin and convinced them that Joe should be allowed back to school provided that he continue seeing a counscelor and that both he and Brad Miller be assaigned to community service, in different areas of course. After some deliberating the group agreed and finally ended the meeting. Joe and Brad could both report back to school the next day but they were not to have any contact with each other and on Joe's insistance, Brad was not to go near Vanessa Bender as well. The girls statement was enough for them to agree to this. Joe/Paul and Laura thanked everyone and apologized for any inconvienence before following the others out the door. It was then that He saw the willowy blonde head of Vanessa Bender coming down the corridore. Paul smiled to himself and called out to the lovely girl.

This would be the perfect opportunity to test his acting ability on Joe Hardy's beautifull girl friend. He had hoped that when they finally

kissed, she would not realize that something was not quite right, infact Paul Butler had secretly wished that he didn't have to "Play" at being Joe or anyone else for that matter where she was concerned. He wished that it was not Joe Hardy but the Paul Anthony Butler

who had won her heart.

" Joe!!" Vanessa exclaimed as she ran into his arms. He caught the warning glance from his mother but continue to hold his "girlfriend"

in his arms. Brad Miller scoweled at the sight but was quickly led away by his mother.

"Hi babe." Paul replied, calling her by the same nick name that Joe had usually referred to her by. Paul was very gratefull that the file

on Joe Hardy had been such a detailed one. The thought also seemed just abit creepy as well, that someone could know so much about another person.

"Well, what happened at the meeting?! " She asked. Vanessa glanced at her watch. She was on the way to the cafetaria for the early lunch period. paul as Joe quickly explained about the meeting, Omitting the private meeting between him and his lawyer Marissa. when

it was over she enveloped him into a hug and a congratulatory kiss which led Paul to beleive that he had indeed died and gone to of all

places, Heaven.

"We can talk more later, in private I hope " He whispered in her ear, she smiled and giggled. He was right, this was definitly notthe time nor the place to dicuss private issues and she really waslooking for a chance to be alone with him. Vanessa also noticed how the two were being observed by others near bye and joined him in a deep blush. She quickly pecked him on the cheak and raced off to the lunch room promising to give his best to their friends and to tell Frank that the meeting was a sucess. with a wave she was gone. Laura was now standing beside her "son" urging him to follow her out of the school incase the reporters swarmed them once again. He nodded to

her and went to hold open the door for his "Mother".

Chapter Nine:

Charity had managed to somehow get Joe Back on his feet again, albeit wobbly. He still shook with the infection which raged through his body, sweat poured from him and his wavy blond hair now looked matted and sticky. Charity still thought he was just about the cutest guy she had ever seen and once again envied Vanessa Bender for being the one to capture this young man's heart. Charity knew she had to think of something and fast! But then the answer hit her. She helped Joe to sit back down on the rusty old bed and left out the door from the cell, once again wondering why she was able to come and go as she pleased . She soon returned but this time she pushed a metal wheel chair towards Her "patient" who was at the moment was wearing a weak but gratefull smile. Charity carefully helped the teen to sit in the chair and turned to get the door when they were interrupted by a loud female voice. This caused both Joe and Charity to snap their heads up and connect the voice with a face. Joe didn't recognize the long legged dark auburn haired woman

but the shocked look on Charity's face told Joe that she on the other hand knew this person and knew her well.

"Joe please meet my mother, Victoria Butler. The wicked Bitch of the East!" Charity offered. The woman walked straight up to her daughter and slapped the girl across the face hard enough for blood to begin pouring from Charity's already crimson lips.

"Oh my, you alway's were a disrespectfull little snipit weren't you. You and your brother" The woman now known as Victoria spat.

Charity glared at her mother. Joe just sat there perplexed and a bit helpless as the two strong willed women traded barbs. Actually

the youngerof the Hardy brothers, had been trying to makes sense of what has gone on ever since he had been first kidnapped. Joe

also wondered how long he had actually been away from his family and more importantly how could they so easily allow a stranger into their lives and even worse believe he was their son and especially Frank's brother, after what they shared. The women's banter jarred

joe back to reality once again as it seemed to get louder and more intense.

"Mother, what are you doing here! last time I heard from you, you were in Europe on some shopping spree!" Charity asked.

"I came back as soon as I heard what was going on here dear, problem is you my precious are getting dangerously close to ruining everything. Charity Rose Butler what on earth possessed you to go against your father and help this boy!...as cute as he is" she asked

sending Joe an approving look although she did wrinkle her nose because of the stench of the room and Joe's body from going so long without a proper Bath.

"Mom! You are not stopping me from leaving here with Joe Joe. He needs proper medical attention and fast! I don't really know how much you are aware of but Your maniacle husband is using my brother in a plot to keep the Hardy's from searching for the real Joe. ButI

am afraid that paul is not quite cut out for that kind of assignment. You have to help me, if only because you know it is the right thing to do. " Charity pleaded.

"Hmm...let me see, I really don't think you are in any position to be making demands or for that matter requests my dear" Victoria said

"I do believe you are absolutely correct Victoria!" A booming and terrifyingly familiar voice said behind them. Joe although groggy from the pain and infection was still shaken enough by the voice for his head to snap up . Charity's heart sank as she too became aware of the last person she wanted to see. She tried not to show it but the fear inside had bubbled to the surface as she faced the man who had

killed her beloved father and became her step-father. Instinctively she inched closer to Joe, whether it was in an effort to protect him or herself a little better was unknown, but she did feel a little more secure. Charity knew that Joe was feeling the same fear being face to face again with the man who for the most part single handedly destroyed all their lives, or atleast tried to.

"Hello Daddy!" She spat. the blood on her lips had dried but it started again after her step father also felt the need to slap her acrpss the face. Joe tried in vain to come to her aid but the Assassin was just too fast and strong for the injured young man. Al rewarded Joe's

attempt at bravery with a punch to the stomach which had the boy falling back into his chair and seeing stars".

" Alright Al that is enough!" Victoria barked as the terrorist raised his fist to land yet another blow. Charity wanted to kill both this man and the woman who had reluctantly given birth to both her and her beloved brother. But this was not the time and she had Joe to think

about. He had been through so much already and she refused to be responsible for him getting punished even more.

"Oh, I was just getting started my dear," Al wined mockingly.

"No! you might end up killing him" She answered.

"And your point would be?" He replied leering at Joes almost limp form.

"My point would be that we need him alive, you know how crucial Joe Hardy is to the plan" She cryptically replied. This made the dark man think for a second.

"oh alright, but I promise you I am not finished with him. I owe this one big time" He vowed. Charity allowed a little sigh of relief escape her lips but hoped her mother did not see. Unfortunatly the older woman did witness the action but waited until Al had left the room to call her young daughter on it.

" You my child have dissapointed me once again, While I do understand how you could become enthralled with this handsome young man, but more importantly I never thought you were so foolish to risk your own life to go against the Assassin Guild much less your own parents" Her mother said shaking her head. She turned to address the two men between her. simply nodding her head. they came forward each grabbing one of Charity's arms. Then VIctoria pulled a long syringe out of her pocket and advanced toward her

shocked daughter. who struggled vainly against the men's grip.

"I am afraid I just can't trust you Charity, and you must be punished, oh and by the way, you probably think that your step-father is the one calling all the shots here don't you?" Victoria said her dark green eyes meeting her daughters Jade one's in complete seriousness.

"Oh but he isn't precious, for you see I am" Charity's eye's widened as the needle was plunged into her arm and a warm liquid began to flow in her veins making her instantly dizzy.

"How can you do this to your own children!" A weak but brave Joe Hardy spoke up. Victoria left her daughter and went to lean down to

come face to face with Joe's weary sapphire eye's. Her voice dripped with icy venom as she spoke.

"Why little Joseph I can do anything I please, after all like you they are mine and when you are the leader of the Assassins you can do whatever your heart desires. " She answered, then she lowered her lips to his swollen one's and kissed Joe who sprang back both in reaction to the kiss and the needle that had just pierced his own arm as well. Within moments Joe had joined Charity who had already

sunk into the darkness of drug induced oblivion.

Chapter 10

"Painful Deceptions"

Marissa Chetwynde chatted briefy with the Hardy's and the Principal for a moment accepting their grateful thanks for her legal assistance. Paul winked at the attractive Lawyer as she jumped into her silver Corvette convertable and sped away. It was not until she was well out on the highway that she pulled out a pair of headphones.

"Call Arthur Grey" She commanded her On-Star system. Instantly the dash board became all aglow and the sound of a phone's touch tone could be heard through the headphone's speakers.

"Clinton, life insurance, how may I direct your call" came the femanine voice on the other end.

" Please put me through to extention 1718525 " She replied.

"May I have your account number please?" The operator replied.

"sure" Marissa sighed impatiently, she hated this part. "1311891919123"

"Thank you for your cooperation and patience, please hold while I connect you" The voice instructed before the putting Marissa on hold.

Marissa kept her eyes on the road but her mind was on the young man she had just left behind. She had known both Paul and his fiesty sister Charity all their lives. Infact she was their cousin on their late father's side. Their real father Samuel Butler who was like a father to the brilliant young Attorney, infact it was Sam Butler who insisted on footing the bill for the girl's schooling even though she had also earned a full scholarship to Harvard School of Law in Massachusetts. Sam saw something special in his sisters child and offered to take her under his wing. The cousins looked nothing alike mainly because of her dark features which she inherited from her dad who was an African-American. Her father also happend to be an agent for the network who unfortunatly ended up at the wrong end of a shootout. The Assassins howevr took the injured man to their base at the ime and proceeded to torture the poor man in an effort to get him to reveal the name and location of the Network leader. But being a loyal agent. Nathaniel Chetwynde refused to comply, He did so up until his death at the hands of the Assassins.

Flashback

(About fifteen years ago)

Marissa's mom Marilee Butler Chetwynde turned to her brother Samuel and sister-in-Law Victoria for help finding her missing husband. Sam being a high ranking member of the police force, who was also privy to his Brother-in -Law's occupation vowed to do what he could but he was also well aware of the fact that his sister and neice were most likely already facing life without the most important man in their young lives, little Rissa's daddy and Marilee's soul-mate was more than likely already dead. However, little did any of the Butler family know that one of their group was well aware of this fact. Victoria Lynn Butler held her grieving sister-in-law in her pretentious arms. She had been acting the part of the sympathetic best friend and family member, However her eye's betrayed the words of comfort she spoke. Victoria hated this part of the performance, Hated the fact that she had to comfort the widow of the man who had caused her lover Al Rousassa many hours of frustration, But most of all, hated that it was not the other way around, that it was not her turn to be the grieving widow. The consoling look that filled Victoria Butlers face then was fueled by the promise that hopefully soon she would get her wish. That is if the man she called both lover and boss had his way. She knew she had to be patient. Victoria allowed Marilee to cry a little longer before gently directing the distraught woman to the couch to sit down. She then excused herself to go check on the children. After a while Marilee nodded and soon fell into a deep sleep, helped along by the strong sedative conveniently added to her tea by Victoria. As soon as the other woman fell asleep Victoria grabbed her coat, telling her husband and the live-in nanny Judy that she was going to run some errands and left the house.

Less than a half an hour later she was pulling up the drive of a luxurious mansion in the wealthiest part of town. The butler let her in without question and directed the long legged red haired beauty to the back veranda where an olive skinned middle-aged man sat as

wicker bench throwing bread to some birds and animals who were lapping up the feast. She had to do a double take for the scene had the sickly look of a Disney film.

"Well, isn't this a quaint little picture" She called out to get his attention after waving the major Domo away before he could properly announce her presence.

"Ah my dear Victoria! Come! You really must see this!" The man with a thick mid-eastern accent, said his voice held the same excitement of a child a Christmas. She came over to this man who stirred her passion like no one ever could, leaned down and accepted both his hand and his lips upon hers. The kiss lasted quite a while until a strange noise from all around them made her freeze and turn forward. He was still beaming and clapping his hands together. What she saw caused a look of revulsion to cross her lovely face.

"Oh My God! You didn't!.." She began, her hand flying to her mouth in shock as the sight of animals writhing in pain took her by suprise. yet her companion just sat there as if enjoying the show.

" AL! you are positively the sickest,cruelest person on this planet!" Spat! He stared at her for a moment.

"Dearest, you do realize that anyone else would have had their throat cut by now, do you not?" He warned. She shuttered and laid her head on his remarkably crisp white shirted chest.

"Of course Al, that is why I am so anamored with you. However, you don't need to torture animals to impress me my love." The woman replied in her most feminine voice. The move worked for Al was soon rubbing his lovers head.

"Good, as long as you know to never betray me like you have your own family, you shameless hussy" The terrorist Joked.

" Ah, but that is just why I am here..." She began but he held a chapped finger to her full crimson lips before she could start up again.

" Shh...not this again Tori! I already explained to your impatient ass that I have everything well planned. But I am not ready to get rid of your so called husband just yet. I must also warn you that no matter how much I need and adore you, if you do anything to betray or for that matter mess up my plans in anyway for your personal needs then I will not hesitate to take appropriate actions. In other words, those lovely children you have produced might just become poor victims of a freak accident. "

"I read you loud and clear Al, however I assure you I will not fail im doing my part of this deal. But I also assure you that I can prove to be just as deadly if anyone ever threatens my children! I was trained by the best, besides, I thought you were fond of my babies?" She asked not sure if her rather stupid show of bravado worked, after all the man was a terrorist and a psycho,( but he was her spycho!) It

did apparently for a wicked smile pushed it's way up his rugged face.

"Actually, I have discovered a sort of affection for the pups. I think they both have the potential to become a part of the elite Assassin force I am planning to recruite and train myself. alright, no more talking, I am a man of many needs, and one of them is you." He said while getting up and reaching for her hand. She smiled, gladly accepting it and allowed him to lead her to the master bedroom suite.

End of Flashback

Marissa Wiped a tear on her sleeve, carefull to keep her eye's on the road. The memories of her father's dissapearance and the fact that it was her own aunt who had betrayed her beloved family. She loved both her real father and Sam Butler who had become like a second dad. Both men were in their graves, thanks to the Assassins and her aunty Vicky! She spat. The tears fell carelessly down her pretty ebony skin. She sniffled a wary sob,then rushed to compose herself as she became aware that the receptionist was calling her name through the headset she wore. Marissa cleared her throat and returned her attention to the phone, while also appreciating her choice to install the high tech not to mention expensive system into her car which allows her to communicate without taking her hands or eye's off the road.

"Miss Weignright you are cleared and the line has been proven secure, I'll put you through now, thank you for waiting and have a pleasant day. " The almost automated voice said. However, pleasant was the last feeling to discribe this particular day or the way she was feeling. This was the Anniversary of the day her Beloved Uncle Sam was killed.

"Hello, Rissa" Arthur Grey's gravelly voice greeted.

"Hell Arty, I wanted to inform you that I just left the school and everything is going smoothly on this end although I really don't like the situation ..." She began, The Grey Man cut her off however.

"I am sorry Rissa but there is absolutely no other choice. We have to allow the Assassins to continue believing that they are calling the shots and it is very important that we don't let the viper or Rousassa know that we are not only on to them but are working to bring the bastards down."

" I know but Is it really necessary to put the kids in so much danger? The Hardy's seem like such a nice family and have been through so much, do you realize what they will be put through when the the fact that you knew all along that there has been an imposter posing as their beloved son! What about my cousin's haven't they been through enough!?" She exclaimed.

" I don't feel like having this conversation Rissa, not here, not now, you know how I feel about it. I completely understand your concerns..."

"Like hell you do! You could never tolerate Joe Hardy's attitude, the way he never quite trusted you especially after his girlfirends death..which you could have prevented."

"That was a bit HARSH don't you think! You know I am not a monster, in fact I happen to believe that young Joseph and his brother Frank have incredible future potential!" Grey exclaimed a bit too profoundly.

"Well, then perhaps you should concentrate on ensurring that both boys and their "potential" are protected?!"

"Well noted, I'll do my best. But I am not going to sit here and be badgered by you all day. I have a lot of work to do. Thanks for getting the school situation cleared up. Stay as close to your cousin as possible but..and I must stress this for all concerned, please don't go doing anything which could comprimise this mission and that is an order! The boss is a bit worried about your emotional ties to this case. "

" I will be fine, look uncle Arty I am sorry to vent but It is just..."

"Shh...I know Rissa, believe me I know but this is unfortunatly what we signed on for and what we trained our butts off for" Grey said to the young woman who looked and acted so much like her father Nate who was also one of his closest friends. The two agents were so close that their children reffered to each other as "Uncle".