Friends and Lovers Universe

Baby Look At You Now!

There was a crisp feeling to the air and the sun splashed patterns over the ground. It was Indian summer and the citizens of Los Angeles were taking advantage of the pleasant fall day. The zoo at Griffith Park was crowded with toddlers and moms, businessmen playing hooky and groups of students, whose teachers were looking for new ways to inspire them.

Nicole Barrett smiled down at her tow headed son, Petey. He was hopping from foot to foot in excitement, "I just love zoos, Momma, will the monkeys be here too?" His wide brown eyes, so much like his fathers, gazed up her.

"I’m sure there are monkeys here, darling." Newly relocated to LA, this was Nikki and Petey’s first visit to the zoo. They’d spent many wonderful hours at the National Zoo while living in Georgetown and a trip there had always been a special occasion.

"Are we ‘brating something Momma?"

Nikki knelt down to her sons level, "We sure are partner, we are ‘brating our new lives," brushing back his cowlick she asked, "Where shall we go first?"

"Monkeys!" shouted Petey with an exuberance that brought smiles to the faces of people near by.

Roger Kee looked up at the sound of a little boy’s voice and smile crossing his usually somber face. To be that innocent again, he thought, the smile leaving his face, to be that innocent period. His childhood had not been about trips to the zoo, which is probably why he choose to spend so much time here. Following in the wake of the excited little boy, Roger loosened his tie and began to see the wonders of this place through a child’s eyes.

Holding Petey’s hand Nikki looked around her, enjoying the warmth of the sun. Despite her East Coast upbringing, in recent years Nikki had always thought of LA as home. Some of the best moments of her life had been during her years here; and some of the worst, she reminded herself. Her attention was drawn by Petey’s mournful voice. "Can’t see Momma, I can’t see the monkeys."

"Sorry sweetie," she picked him up, "can you see them now?" She smiled at the teenage couple who stepped back giving Petey a better view of the monkey cage.

Sliding from his mother’s arms, he ran over to the barrier. "Look Momma, look!" he shouted and pointed, "That one is washing his face! I’m a big boy and I can do that."

Nikki laughed in delight as he copied the monkey’s gestures. "You certainly are a big boy, see the small one over there? His momma is teaching him how take care of himself, watch."

"How do momma monkeys cook?"

Before Nikki could form an answer a deep voice replied, "Monkeys eat fruits and vegetables, raw ones."

"Yeech," was the boy’s instant reply.

Laughing the man echoed him, "Yeech indeed." He smiled at Nikki, "Sorry to intrude ma’am."

Nikki returned the Asian man’s smile, "I should thank you, I have no idea what monkey’s eat."

"Nor do I." He gestured to a plaque describing the habits of the monkeys. "Please allow me to introduce myself, I am Roger Kee."

"Nicole Barrett, my son, Peter." She held out her hand.

"A pleasure." Roger Kee shook her hand. "Your son is a delightful child."

"Can we get some nuts to feed the monkeys?" Petey’s voice was full of excitement.

"Allow me." Kee walked over to the vendor and purchased a bag of peanuts.

Across town, Remington Steele stood at the window behind his desk. The sunlight reflected off the glass and steel buildings. Remington leaned forward looking for a glimpse of the sky. Taking a step back he walked to his desk and punched a button on the phone. "Bernice?’

The office manager’s voice floated through the room. "Yes Boss?"

"Take the rest of the day off, pick up your daughter and head for the beach. Tell Mildred to do the same."

"Yes sir!"

Remington strode across the room and pushed open the door to his wife’s office. "Laura!"

Laura Holt-Steele looked up in surprise at the sound of Remington’s voice. Before she could answer, he walked across the room and swept the paperwork into a desk drawer.

"Remington, what the devil--" He swept her into his arms planting a passionate kiss on her lips. "Mmmm. Just what was that for?" she asked when he finally released her.

"Because I love you," Remington smiled, "What say we close the office and take the kids up to Skyline for a long weekend?"

Laura looked into her husband’s shining blue eyes and then back at her desk. She had no appointments for the rest of the day, she thought, snapping her planner closed. "What the heck. Let’s go!"

Grimacing Mac shielded his eyes against the bright sunlight as he stepped out of the observatory. Trying to find everyone in the bright red tee shirts was a challenge. The rambunctious teens had wound the younger children up and now they were running pall mall down the granite steps. He smiled as he spotted Marcella Williams shepherding them into a group. Marcella spotted him and waved her arms to catch his attention. Trotting over he joined her.

"Mr. Mac these kids want to go to the zoo, I tried to tell them it wasn’t on the itinerary, but you know kids." Despite the slight frown on her face, her eyes were dancing. It was clear she thought the idea of extending the field trip was a good one.

Mac shrugged, "It's a beautiful day Marcella, why not give in, just this once?" He smiled at her, but these days his smiles never reached his eyes. "Almost as beautiful as you."

"Okay Mr. Slick," she laughed. Walking over to inform the other chaperones she thought, that is one lonely boy, one angry, lonely, sad boy. Oh he might try and hide it, but no one could fool Marcella Williams for long. She’d seen too much in her nearly sixty-five years living in East LA.

"I must take my leave." Roger Kee said, bowing to Nikki and Petey. "It has been a pleasant afternoon," He smiled at the young boy, "and thank you for allowing me to share it with you."

Nikki inclined her head, "Thank you Mr. Kee. I very much enjoyed your company."

"Me too!" shouted Petey, copying Kee’s bow with a very silly grin.

Across the way, Mac looked up at the sound of the boy’s voice. Grinning he watched the kid trying to return a bow. He reminds me of someone, Mac thought, I just can’t remember who. The grin slowly faded from his face as the woman with the boy turned around. "Nikki." He was unaware that he had spoken her name out loud. Mac shook his head as if to clear it. It was undoubtedly Nikki. Mac could hear Nikki’s laugh as the boy, possibly hers, he realized, pulled her toward the lions. He began to push his way through the crowd.

"Mommy, Mommy! Mommy, look the lions!" Petey grabbed her arm and pulled, "Let’s go see the lions."

Glancing up as they crossed the pathway, Nikki’s eyes met Mac’s. For one brief instant she considered flight, and reached down to take Petey’s hand. Discarding that idea she took a deep breath, "In a minute sweetheart, Mommy wants to go talk to someone."

Marcella Williams turned toward the scene taking in the situation in a glance. "Oh my," she whispered, when she saw the woman and child walking toward MacGyver. Quickly, she gathered her charges and led them past Mac. "I’ll take the kids back Mr. Mac." That child is the spitting image of Mr. Mac, she thought.

Nodding he took a step forward, his emotions in turmoil. Part of him wanted to take her in his arms, but a larger part of him was still angry with her. God, he thought, she looks great. His eyes swept across her face, but he had never learned to read her face; her inner most thoughts had always eluded him. There was something in her eyes he recognized. Fear. Why was she afraid of him? His glance darted over the little boy who gazed up at him with big brown eyes. Who are you? he wondered.

Nikki looked at Mac at he stood in front of her. She could see the questions in his eyes; questions she wasn’t prepared to answer. Mac never could hide his emotions from her; he never had learned how to wear a mask.

Before she could form any words Petey tugged on her arm. "Mommy! Want to see the lions!"

"In a minute," she answered her eyes never leaving Mac’s face. "Hello Mac. Walk with us?"

Mac nodded and fell in step with Nikki and her son. They didn’t speak until they stopped in front of the lions. "Petey," Nikki cleared her throat appalled at the tremor in her voice, "this is a friend of mommy’s, Mr. MacGyver." She took a deep breath. "Mac, this is Peter, my son." Her dark brown eyes searched Mac’s face for a reaction. She wasn’t disappointed; he was clearly stunned.

Any reply Mac thought of making was stopped by Petey’s voice. "Hi Mr. MacGyver." He held out his tiny hand.

Mac smiled and took the boy’s hand, "Pleasure to meet you, Peter."

Petey scowled, "Petey, I hate Peter."

"Petey!" Nikki gasped, "Where are your manners?" She looked up at Mac, who was trying not to laugh.

"It’s okay Bud," Mac said, "I understand, you can call me Mac."

Petey looked over at his mother, "OK." He stood on his toes and tried to peer over the people gathered in front of the lion’s cage. "I can’t see."

Mac scooped Petey up placing him on his shoulders. "Can you see now, Bud?"

Looking over at Nikki, he was surprised to see tears in her eyes. At least the fear is gone, he thought briefly, before Petey’s question drew his attention back to the lions.

"Yep," Peter James Barrett wrapped his arms around his new friend’s neck. "Do lions purr like my Aunt Emmnies Mr. Tabby?"

Watching Mac and Petey as they chattered away about the lions, Nikki expelled a deep breath. So far so good, she sighed. Her eyes swept over the man and boy. Petey had always favored Mac, but seeing them together it struck her just how much he looked like him. If Mac hadn’t yet realized he was Petey’s father, he soon would.

The clock on Pete Thornton’s desk glowed 6:35 casting a greenish glow on Mac’s face. He rubbed his eyes and refocused on the computer screen.

Nicole Anne Barrett (Carpenter)

Widowed 1987, returned to maiden name 1989

One son, Peter James, born London 1989

Production Head, International Federal Film

Resides: 12055 Valley View Drive

Los Angeles, CA 90025

Mac groaned and typed in another password, cursing when the computer beeped at him. Damn it; he should have never told Pete to be more creative with his passwords.

"Mac, is that you?"

"Jeez Pete, " yelped Mac, "you trying to kill me?"

"Tell me why you are trying to break into my computer and I’ll think about it." When his question was met with silence Pete tried again, moving across the darkened room, "Mac, what is going on?"

"You’re back early, I thought you were staying until Monday."

"I haven’t left yet, our flight leaves at nine. Now, explain what the devil you are doing in my office at six thirty am!" Pete poked Mac his cane, "And get out of my chair!"

Mac answered the question with one of his own. "Did you know Nikki was back?"

Pete slowly lowered himself into his chair, before replying. "Have you spoken to her?" He thought he’d have more time before he’d have to deal with the fallout over this situation.

Mac slammed his fist on the desk. "Damn it Pete! Did you know she was in LA?"

"Yes."

"Pete, how could you keep this from me! You know how I feel about Nikki."

Pete reached out for his friend. "Sit down, Mac." He waited a moment. "I said sit down." When he heard Mac sit in the leather chair beside his desk, he spoke. "No Mac, I don’t know how you feel about Nikki. I’m not sure you know how you feel about Nikki. Before you ask, I’ve seen her and yes I knew she had a son."

Mac finally spoke out loud the words he’d been wanting to say since yesterday afternoon. The words that had kept him awake all night. "Am I his father?"

Pete sighed, "I don’t know, Mac, I never asked and Nikki never offered the information. I’m her friend, not her keeper." And I’m lying to my closest friend, he chastised himself, you know in your heart, that the boy is MacGyver’s.

Mac reached over placing a hand on the older man’s shoulder. " Sorry, I shouldn’t have yelled at you. I guess I’d better ask the secretive Ms. Barrett myself."

"Mac, I don’t think that--" the door slammed behind MacGyver, "--is such a good idea." Pete sat in the darkened room debating on whether to call Nikki or not. Stay out of it, he advised himself.

The leaves on the trees were just beginning to turn; bright sunlight heightened the color. A few boats dotted the still lake as Laura Holt-Steele leaned against her husband. "Penny for your thoughts."

Laura smiled up at Remington. "I was just wondering about the message Nikki left. She sounded strange."

"Not everything is a mystery love. Maybe she just needs to talk, in which case Bernice is always available."

"You’re probably right."

Remington kissed the top of her head. "Always right, darling, always."

Laura laughed and they continued their stroll along the water’s edge. "I think she’s lonely."

"Laura," he warned, "Don’t play matchmaker. I’m sure a lady with Nikki’s class, looks and brains has plenty of suitors."

"Smitten Mr. Steele," teased Laura, "should I be jealous?"

"Ahh, Mrs. Steele, her beauty only pales in comparison to yours."

"Flatterer."

Remington stole a kiss, "Is it working?"

Wrapping her arms around his neck Laura whispered, "Like a charm," as she lifted her face to his.

Nikki sighed in relief as she turned onto her block. It had been a hell of a day; Fielder had left a huge mess for her to clean up. She glanced back at her sleeping son, she hated to wake him up, but she knew she had to. As she pulled into driveway, she saw Mac sitting on the porch steps. "Damn!" she hissed, "What the hell is he doing here?"

Mac rose as the car stopped, stood and watched impassively as Nikki got out and walked around to the passenger side. She looked tired, he thought, but he had to know. "I’ll get those. Go ahead and take him in." He walked over to the car and got the groceries out of the back seat.

Nikki lifted her sleeping son out of his seat; silently Mac followed her up the steps. Opening the door she whispered, "Kitchen’s that way."

Mac watched as she walked down the short hallway and then stepped into the kitchen, setting the bags on the table. After a moment’s hesitation, he followed Nikki’s path down the hall.

Standing silently in the doorway, he watched as Nikki tucked Petey into bed. As she bent down, kissing the sleeping child’s cheek, Mac stepped into the room and stood beside her. Feeling his presence, she looked up at him. "I’ll make some tea," she whispered, turning slowly she walked out of the room. Mac stood beside the bed and watched the sleeping boy for a few more minutes.

Nikki didn’t look up when Mac entered the kitchen. She fussed with the tea service and putting away the remaining groceries. He stood quietly watching her, trying to assess her mood, wondering what she was feeling. Could she be as uncertain as he was? The thought surprised him; he had never thought of Nikki as uncertain.

Picking up the tray, she walked to the living room. Following her, Mac glanced around the room. It was obvious that a child ruled in this house. Trucks and cars were scattered around the floor. A stack of Dr. Suess books sat on the coffee table. Nikki pushed these out of the way, setting down the tray. Silently she handed Mac a cup. Taking it, he sat down beside her, breaking the silence. "You’ve changed," he whispered, reaching out and caressing her face, "more beautiful, if that’s possible."

Nikki’s eyes filled with tears as she covered his hand with hers. "Mac, I--"

"Please." He placed his fingers across her lips, "I need to ask, am I his father?" As Nikki nodded slowly, Mac could see the anguish in her eyes. "Did you know before you left for DC?"

Her voice barely audible, Nikki answered, "No."

Mac took a deep shaky breath, "Why didn’t you tell me?"

Nikki looked up. "I wanted to. I tried. I called and left messages, but you never answered them." She dropped her gaze back to her hands.

"I was in Alaska."

"I know, Pete told me. I didn’t know that then."

"When I got back I looked for you. I went to Washington, but I couldn’t find you." As if you dropped off the face of the earth, Mac mused.

"I was in London; I didn’t know." She took a sip of her tea and set down the cup. "I never knew you looked for me." No one ever told me, she thought. Trying to protect her no doubt.

"Pete didn’t tell you?" Mac asked.

"No. I never asked about you and Pete never mentioned you. He’s funny that way."

"You’ve had, what, four years to tell me? You knew where I was. What about Brush Creek?" Mac fought to keep his temper in check.

"I called you, more than once and all I got your damned machine. And I wanted to tell you in Brush Creek, but you were so angry then--"

"That was a months ago."

Nikki set her cup down. "Mac, you have no idea how many times I picked up the phone, how many times I actually made plane reservations, how many god damned letters I’ve written and thrown away!"

"No, Nikki, see I don’t know. I don’t know my son’s birthday. I don’t know what his first word was, I didn’t see his first steps, because you decided I didn’t need to know!" Mac set his cup down with a bang. "Your precious Agency training no doubt."

"The Agency has nothing to do with this. This is about you and me, or what used to be you and me."

Standing up MacGyver began to pace the length of the tiny living room.

"You and me. God, Nikki, was there really ever a you and me? Or did I just imagine it?"

"How dare you!" she hissed, choking back the tears that threatened to spill, "how dare you question my feelings for you. Damn you, I love you, l loved you."

"So much that you packed your bags and left me."

"Left you? I didn’t leave you. I disagreed with you, I fought with you, but I never just left you. I went to DC on assignment. You were the one who left, the one who issued the ultimatum. You went up to your damned mountain to sulk and I couldn’t reach you." The tears spilled over her lashes running down her cheeks. "I tried and I tried--" she broke off with a sob. Angrily she brushed the tears away.

Mac wheeled on her. "I was on assignment too," he said softly, "and when I came back I tried to find you."

"When you came back," she whispered, "and just how long was that? A week, a month?" Nikki looked up at him. "Didn’t you ever check your damned machine?"

"Me? Just how long did you wait? If you didn’t know about the baby, it couldn’t have been very long. I know the basics of biology Nikki. I still remember that last night we were together." He stopped pacing and stood in front of her. "I can give you the date in case you’ve forgotten it. If you’re telling me the truth and you didn’t--"

"IF? If I am telling you the truth?" Nikki leapt to her feet, eyes blazing.

The moments stretched out silently. "You kept him from me for the last four years, Nikki." Mac’s voice was quiet, dangerously so. "What am I supposed to think?" Turning he walked to the door and paused, "I will be back. I need some time to cool down, some time to think. This isn’t over Nikki, not by a long shot."

"Mac! Wait, Mac--" Nikki ran out onto the front porch as the Nomad squealed away from curb, "-- I can explain, " she whispered as the tears began to fall. " Don’t go."

Edward Rosemount glanced at the crowd that had gathered on the edge of the woods. Jerking his head at them, he snapped at the uniform standing beside him "Clear them out." Nodding she trotted down the slope to the road.

Turning his attention to the plainclothes man standing near the covered corpse, Rosemount groaned in frustration, "Are you trying to tell me this guy was murdered while under surveillance?" Great! Wonderful! Wait until the chief hears this, he thought. "Okay, who found the stiff?"

Pointing, Jarvis answered him, "They did, young couple, out for a stroll," Jarvis returned his gaze to his partner, "or something. Names are," he fumbled with his notepad, "Ah, somewhere--"

"Never mind, I’ll start with them, you get on finding out who this guy is. I’m heading back to the office."

Taking a sip of his coffee, Edward Rosemount made a face. This stuff tastes like crude oil, he thought as picked the report on his desk. Just what, he asked himself, what is it about this case that stinks? Grabbing his suit coat, he headed down the hall to the conference room.

Vern Snyder sat with his feet propped up on the conference table ignoring the glare of Jimmy Jarvis. Oh, excuse me, he thought sarcastically, James Jarvis, Detective, punk, with commendations up the wazoo. His rheumy gaze narrowed on the younger man. Smart ass college punk, he thought, sucks up to the brass and that g**d*** PI, Steele.

"Get your feet of the table Lieutenant." Captain Vince Allers snapped as he entered the room followed by Edward. "Detective." He nodded in James direction. ‘Vern, have you met Ed?"

"Nah." Vern extended a sweaty palm, "Heard about you though."

Reluctantly, Edward shook the offered hand, "Good things I hope."

"Yeah, sure. "

"Gentleman, have a seat, let's get down to business." Allers sat down at the head of the table spreading the case file in front of him. "This is one hell of a mess men. What do you have for us Jarvis?"

"When can we see the surveillance film Vern?"

Snyder smiled at the captain. "They’re in development now, should have them for you in the am."

"And the file?" Edward asked.

"Same time." Vern’s smile disappeared as he regarded the Lieutenant, another spoiled rich kid, he thought.

Rosemount returned Vern’s look, "Can you explain how a surveillance subject was murdered in a public place?"

"Nope, but I’ll let you know when I find out. It’s Hoffer’s case." Snyder lifted himself out of the chair, "Is that all? Because I’ve got a shit load of paperwork to do."

‘You’re dismissed," Vince Allers waved his hand, "and Vern, I want that file on my desk first thing tomorrow."

MacGyver stood looking out at the water. Another night with no sleep. This time, because when he closed his eyes he saw Nikki’s tear streaked face. Okay, so maybe I wasn’t fair to her, he thought, but she had kept his son from him. How could she have loved him and done that? He wrapped the blanket tighter around his shoulders. Had she really loved him? He had certainly thought so then. Closing his eyes he let his mind drift back to the last night they’d spent together.

Mac looked up from his computer smiling at the delightful grin on Nikki’s face. The grin that was reflected on Harry’s face. Harry had been teaching Nikki how to play "cut throat" checkers. And from the sound of it, she was winning. A soothing warmth spread through Mac as he watched his grandfather and Nikki. At the sound of Harry’s rich laughter, he smiled. This was the way a Sunday was supposed to be spent, he thought, surrounded the people you love.

Mac sighed and watched as the morning fog rolled in. "Harry..." He turned his gaze heavenward, "I miss you, heck, I even miss your advice. " A small smiled quirked the corners of his mouth.

Turning, Mac started walking back to his apartment. After they’d dropped Harry off, he and Nikki had driven back to her place, after a brief detour. A crooked grin spread across his face, I wonder if Petey was conceived in that back seat, he mused. Or early the next morning, he thought, with a sad smile.

Mac opened the door and walked into the kitchen. The early morning quiet was shattered by a ringing telephone. Mac threw a glare in the direction of the offending instrument, ignoring it as he made his way toward the bedroom. He winced as his voice wafted through the room "This is MacGyver. You know the drill." Beep. Time to change that message.

"Mac? Mac, are you there?" Nikki’s voice drifted out of the speaker. MacGyver leapt across the room and grabbed for the phone. "Mac, please pick up, I need you-"

"Nikki? Don’t hang up. What’s wrong?" Mac rasped into the phone.

Edward Rosemount stood in the Barrett kitchen and swore under his breath. This was not good. His gaze drifted to the living room where Nikki sat huddled on the couch her arms around her little boy. "Damn."

"You say something Ed?" Jimmy Jarvis looked up from the table. Spread in front of him was the evidence. Evidence linking Nikki Barrett to the murder of Roger Kee. At Rosemount’s glare he protested, "Hey, I like her too, but the evidence points to one suspect--her." Standing up he stuffed his hands in his pockets. "This has just been too easy. I don’t like it."

"You don’t like it! Think what this is going to do to my love life." The sounds of a scuffle came from the front porch. Rosemount scowled as MacGyver burst through the door. A uniformed officer followed. "Sorry sir," he said as Mac pushed past him.

Rosemount held up his hand and waved the officer off. "Just who the hell are you?" he asked as MacGyver ignored him heading toward the living room. He started to follow, but Jarvis put a restraining hand on his arm.

"The kid, we don’t want to upset the kid," he whispered. There was something familiar about the guy. Jarvis picked up the file, leafing through the surveillance photos.

Mac dropped to floor in front of Nikki. "Hey," he whispered, "Nikki, you okay?" Reaching up he brushed her tumbled locks out of her eyes. "Nik?"

Slowly she reached up and grasped his hand, "Mac, they are taking me down for questioning in a murder. A man, I, we," she tightened her arm around her son, "we met in the park the other day. I need you to stay with Petey." Her brown eyes glistened with unshed tears. "Please."

"Done. Let me go talk to the cops. This has got to be a mistake." Slowly he stood up and walked into the kitchen. "What the hell is this about?" he snarled as he entered.

Edward Rosemount turned his inquisitive gaze to the man in front of him. Clearly this was the boy’s father, he thought, the kid looked just like him. So much for the long dead husband. Filing that information away, he asked, "And you are?"

"MacGyver, a friend of Ms. Barrett." Mac met the lieutenant's gaze. "You are?"

"Edward Rosemount, LAPD, Homicide, " gesturing to his partner, "Detective Jarvis. In answer to your question Mr. MacGyver, Ms. Barrett is being taken downtown to answer a few questions regarding her relationship with the deceased." He held up his hand silencing Mac’s protests. "No we can not question her here, we need to take blood and hair samples."

"Are you seriously considering Nikki a suspect?" Mac struggled to keep his voice even, glancing toward the living room.

Jarvis stepped forward, "Unfortunately, she’s our only suspect at the moment." Stepping closer he put a friendly arm around Mac’s shoulder, "Listen, we both," he nodded at his partner, "we like Nikki. Heck, my kids go to daycare with Petey. But the evidence is all pointing to her."

"That’s crazy!" Mac exploded, "If you know her, you know she would never hurt anyone!"

"Mac, please don’t." The three men whirled at the sound of Nikki’s voice. She stood in the doorway her coat in her hands, "Don’t. You’ll upset Petey. I’ll go and answer their questions. Just take care of Petey, please."

Mac took two steps forward enfolding her in his arms whispering, "It’s going to be all right, I’ll take care of everything."

Edward and Jarvis had quietly stepped out of the room, giving them some privacy. "What do you think JJ?" Rosemount leaned against the porch rail."

"About what, her? Don’t think she did it. About him?" Jarvis took out his pipe carefully filling it and completing the ritual, lighting it. "He’s a loose cannon. Must be the kid's father." Taking a puff, he expelled the smoke, and finished his thought. "Could be he’s the jealous type. He opened the file, pulling out a photo. "See here," he tapped the picture, "he was at the scene."

Rosemount took the picture. "So I see. Motive? Opportunity? Timing?"

"Taken approximately twenty four hours before the time of death. Motive? Jealousy. Opportunity? I’ll let you know."

Rosemount handed the picture back to Jarvis, "Let’s get Nikki’s statement and go from there." He waved to the female officer waiting in the unmarked car. "Oh and JJ," he turned back to his partner, "pray the lady has an airtight alibi."

Nikki allowed herself a moment to savor the feel of Mac’s arms around her, to feel safe. She never realized how much she had missed him, how much she still loved him. Dimly she heard him reassuring her; telling her it would be all right. Untangling her arms from his waist, she took a step back. "Thank you Mac. You always made me feel safe." Reaching up she laid her hand on his cheek. "Go talk to Petey, I don’t want him to see me leave."

Silently Mac helped her into her coat. As she moved to the door, he laid a hand on her arm. "It will be okay, " he said with conviction.

Nikki laid her hand on his and smiled, "If anyone can accomplish that, its you MacGyver." She kissed him on the cheek, "Go take care of your son."

From the outside, the Wonton looked like every other storefront restaurant, the same cheap neon sign promising good food and delivery. Inside it is just as typical, plastic lanterns and flowers grace sturdy tables and booths with seats covered in imitation leather. Lotus blossom prints on plain walls, a typical small Chinese restaurant, unless you walked into the back room--and you didn’t without an invitation.

"You have the situation under control?" Sydney Chow’s eyes narrowed as he studied the people sitting around the table. Chang Soo, young and brash, who ran his numbers and controlled his scam artists; Madame Kee, mother of the deceased Roger, who ran his bordellos and opium dens; and last but not least, Alexander Hoffer, LAPD vice officer; Chow’s man on the inside. He didn’t trust Hoffer, didn’t like him, but he needed him.

Hoffer reluctantly pulled his gaze from the woman who sat beside Chow. She was all of seventeen, the former Soon Li, who now insisted on being called Desiree. Shame to waste all that on Chow, Hoffer thought, before answering Chow’s question.

"Of course I do. As we speak LAPD’s finest are barking up the wrong tree." Hoffer leaned back, a smug look on his face, "It was lucky that Rog decided to pick up that woman. We’ve been able to build a pretty convincing case against her."

Chang Soo glared at Hoffer. Disgusting creature, he thought. "I don’t agree with framing this woman," he said, surprising even himself. "It could be dangerous. What do we know about her?"

Hoffer picked up the file in front of him and help up a photo. "Nicole Barrett, produces documentaries, single--widow, one son. Recently moved to LA, no close ties in the community."

Nikki looked up as Vince Allers stepped in the room. "Mrs. Barrett? I’m Captain Allers." He sat down opposite her. "I’d like to ask you a few questions."

Nodding Nikki arched an eyebrow, "Captain? What happened to Edward and Jimmy?"

"Lieutenant Rosemount and Detective Jarvis, or Edward and Jimmy, as you call them, will not be questioning you." Smiling at her, he continued. "At their request. They are both aquatinted with you and that connection would be all the press needs to start screaming about police procedures. "

"I understand Captain." Nikki folded her hands. "Ask away."

"Are you certain you don’t want an attorney present, Mrs. Barrett?"

"I am an attorney Captain Allers. I have nothing to hide and unless you are going to charge me, I don’t believe I need an attorney."

"Very well. Mrs. Barrett, how well did you know Roger Kee?"

"Not at all, he approached my son and me at the zoo, joined us for a short time and then left. I knew his name, what he looked like and that is all."

Mac jumped as the phone rang. "Pete?" he asked as he picked it up.

"No," he snapped, "no comment." Slamming down the phone, he looked out the front window. A few reporters stood near the curb. Just how the hell, he wondered, had the press gotten wind of this? He looked over at the little boy who sat in front of the TV. How long before the ratings hungry LA media decided to break into the day’s programming with a news flash. Mac rolled his eyes. There was no story here; Nikki hadn’t killed anyone. Not that it mattered to the media. "Hey Bud," he knelt beside Petey, "Hungry?"

"When’s Momma coming home?"

"Pretty soon. Wanna go get a burger?" he smiled at the boy, "I’ll buy."

Petey looked at the man mommy said was a friend. "Mr. Mac, where did mommy go?"

Mac sighed and sat down beside the boy, "She had to go with Mr. Rosemount for a little while. She’ll be back soon." Please, he prayed, let that be the truth.

"Laurie says he’s a cop. Did he rerest my mommy?"

For a moment Mac wondered who Laurie was, "No he did not arrest your mommy," Mac said gently, "he just needed to talk to her about something."

The phone rang again and Mac leaned over and snatched it up, "I said no comment."

Laura Holt-Steele frowned at the sound of the man’s voice. "Excuse me but did I dial the wrong number? I’m trying to reach Nicole Barrett’s residence. This is Laura Holt-Steele."

Mac frowned as he tried to place the name, "Oh of course, I’m sorry Mrs. Steele. This is MacGyver; we met briefly in Brush Creek. Nikki isn’t home right now."

"Obviously." Laura said, "Is everything okay there? I don’t mean to pry, but Nikki called me earlier and I got the feeling something was wrong."

"Earlier today?" Mac asked, wondering if he’d been the last resort.

Laura hesitated, "No, she called me Friday night, but I had already left for the weekend. We just got back. Are you sure everything is okay?"

Nikki must trust this woman, Mac decided, she didn’t make friends easily or confide in just anyone. "No, Mrs. Steele, everything is not okay. Two LAPD detectives took Nikki in for questioning a couple of hours ago."

"Questioning, what kind of questioning?" Laura’s voice rose causing her husband to look up in concern.

"I don’t really want to get into this over the phone." Mac looked down at Petey and then out then window. "Can I meet you somewhere?"

Laura glanced over at Remington and then handed him the note she had scrawled, "Certainly Mr. MacGyver, why don’t you come here. Can I assume Petey is with you?"

"Yes," Mac said, feeling relieved as he wrote down the address. "Give me twenty minutes. I’ll call and see if I can get any information out of the police. Thank you Mrs. Steele."

"No problem, we’ll see you in twenty minutes, Good bye." Hanging up the phone she looked at her husband, "I’m worried."

"I can see why. Just who is this Mr. MacGyver and why is Nicole being questioned?"

Laura began to pace, "We met MacGyver in Brush Creek, he’s Lee’s friend I think. He didn’t want go into why Nikki was being questioned. Maybe I should call Lee."

Remington laid a restraining hand on her arm, "I think we should wait until we have all the facts before you call in the Feds. Why don’t you call Bernice and see if she knows anything. I’ll call Mildred and tell her to start digging."

Mac rubbed his head. Damn those people were tight lipped. He dialed the Foundation. As he listened to Pete’s voice mail, he turned to Petey. "Go find your coat kiddo, we’re going to the Steele’s." He left Pete a brief message and hung up the phone.

Vince Allers pushed back his chair and stood up as a young officer entered then room. "Sorry to interrupt sir, but Detective Jarvis needs to see you."

"Thank you Officer Richards." He looked down at Nikki, "We’re finished here, you’re free to go Mrs. Barrett. Just--"

"--Don't take any sudden trips out of town." She smiled at him, "I know the drill Captain." Nikki gathered her purse and coat.

"Do you need a ride home?"

"No she doesn’t." Their heads swung toward the door. Officer Richards still stood there, "Ms. Barrett’s ride is here, a Ms. Krebs?"

"Mildred?" Nikki was surprised. Why was Mildred here? Has something happened to Petey? "If you’ll excuse me." She rushed out the door, brushing past Edward and Jarvis.

Allers looked up at his detectives. "The lady keeps good company, the Steele Agency. Anything new?"

Mac stood beside the Nomad, Jeez, he thought, this place must cost a bundle. "Just a sec bud," he said as he unhooked the child seat.

The elevator doors slid open into the semi-private foyer. "Wow." Mac whispered. Taking his son’s hand he crossed the space and was about to knock on the impressive set of doors when one of them swung open.

Laura opened the door stared, her eyes moving back and forth between the man and boy who stood there.

"Mrs. Steele? I’m MacGyver."

"Oh, I’m sorry. Laura Holt-Steele," she held out her hand smiling down at the child. "Hi Petey. Please come in." She stepped back allowing Mac entrance in to the formal foyer. "Would you like to go play in Katie’s room Petey?"

"No!" Petey tightened his grip on Mac’s hand. "Don’t wanna."

Mac smoothed the boy’s hair, "That’s okay pal," he soothed. "It might be better if he stays with me Mrs. Steele, he’s had quite a morning."

"Do you mean to tell me the child actually saw--"

"Remington!" Laura’s voice carried a warning note. Mac looked at the dark haired man, the great detective Remington Steele, he thought. "MacGyver, nice to see you again Mr. Steele," he said holding out his hand.

"Sydney?" Chow looked up in annoyance at Desiree. "I’m sorry, but there’s a General Woo here to see you."

A woman pushed past his mistress. "I am General Wan Li Woo. Please accept my apology for the interruption, but I must speak to you." Her gaze went to the young woman, "Alone."

Chow waved Desiree away, waiting until the girl closed the door behind her before speaking. "What can I, a humble merchant, do for you General."

"Cut the bull Chow." She sat in the chair before him. "I know who and what you are. I’m here to talk about Kee."

"I assume you mean the late Roger Kee. What is he to you?"

General Woo looked the merchant over, "That is not important. Let us just say Mr. Kee did some work for me."

Chow grinned at her, "As a courier? You see General I am not a stupid man. I knew every move Roger Kee made. I can tell you there will be nothing in his home or his office that will connect him to you. That matter has been taken care of."

"I know. I don’t trust you." General Woo stood and looked down at Sydney Chow, "But I will warn you, do not attempt to blackmail me, you have no idea what power I hold."

"That’s insane!" Remington Steele looked at the man sitting across the room from him. "Nicole would never kill anyone."

"You don’t have to convince me Steele, I’m more aware of that then anyone. Unfortunately the LAPD doesn’t feel the same way."

A soft chime rang through the room, "The elevator." Laura supplied the answer to Mac’s unspoken question, "It must be Mildred." She got up and walked out of the room.

Remington stood up, "I think I’ll go get us some food and drink. Any preferences?"

Mac shook his head silently as his host left the room. The events of the previous night and the day had finally caught up with him. Wearily he let his head drop into his hands. God, he wished he could do this all over again. There were so many things he needed to say to Nikki, so many questions he had to ask. A soft voice penetrated his thoughts.

"Mr. Mac are you feeling sick?"

Lifting his head Mac found himself looking into those brown eyes so much like his. He smiled weakly at the little boy with the wild cowlick, "Just feeling tired Bud."

Petey cocked his head. "Momma says hugs make feeling bad, better."

"Your momma is one smart lady, think hugs work on tired too?"

Petey shrugged his shoulders, "Don’t know."

Mac opened his arms, "Wanna try anyway?" To his delight Petey crawled up on his lap and wrapped his arms around Mac’s neck. He returned the child’s hug surprising himself with the intensity of emotion that rolled through him.

That was how Nikki found them when she stepped into the room a moment later. Laura had corralled Mildred and pointed Nikki in the direction of the living room. Neither man nor boy was aware of her presence as she stood there. She was loath to intrude on this moment between father and son, especially since they had shared so few. So she stood quietly and watched.

"Do you feel better Mr. Mac?" Petey asked his new friend.

"One hundred percent, thanks buddy." Mac gave the boy another squeeze before releasing him. As Petey scrambled down Mac became aware of Nikki standing just inside the door.

"Nikki," he smiled at her, "you’re back."

Petey ran headlong to his mother wrapping his arms around her legs. "I missed you Momma."

Picking him up, Nikki kissed his cheek and smoothed his ruffled hair. "I missed you too; have you been a good boy?"

Petey wiggled until his mother let him down, "Yep I was, ask Mr. Mac. I was making him feel better."

Nikki gave the boy a quick hug, "Why don’t you find Katie, sweetie?" She watched as he ran out of the room before turning back to Mac. "Thank you."

"No problem, " he stood up slowly as she walked toward him, "he’s a good kid."

Nikki stopped a few feet away from him, her eyes searching his face, "Are you sick, Petey said he was trying to make you feel better."

Mac smiled at her, "I was tired, I didn’t sleep much last night, we were seeing if hugs worked on tired."

"Do they?" she asked as she settled down on the couch.

"His do."

"Sit down Mac, it makes me nervous when you loom over me like that." Nikki gave him a wan smile.

He sat beside her on the couch, "Are you okay?"

Before she could answer, Remington walked in carrying a tray, which he sat down on the coffee table. "Coffee, tea, assorted cheeses and crackers," he said. "I’m leaving now, my wife thinks you need some time alone. I’ve found it’s easier not to argue with Laura."

Nikki watched him go before answering Mac. "I’m as well as can be expected after having my blood taken, my hair pulled out by the roots and answering absurd questions about someone I don’t even know." Leaning over she poured herself a cup of coffee. "Do you want some, or have you given up caffeine again?"

"I’ll have a cup, I can never give up caffeine for long you know that." Mac answered, "Did they give you any hint about what evidence they have?"

She shook her head, "Not really. I gather they have pictures of me with Mr. Kee at the zoo. I got the feeling that perhaps he was under surveillance."

"How does someone get murdered while under surveillance?"

"Excellent question, Mac." Nikki popped a piece of cheese in her mouth.

"Did they say how he died?"

"No. Captain Allers basically asked me how I knew the victim, for how long and where I was at eight last night. Since I only met Mr. Kee Thursday, I couldn’t tell him much about the man. As far as last night at eight, I was at home. I couldn’t remember what time you left. They’ll probably ask you about that."

Mac frowned, "Heck, I didn’t look at my watch. I had other things on my mind just then, I got home around ten, but I drove around for a while."

"We need to talk about those things Mac." Nikki turned toward him.

"We will, but not until we clear this up. They’ll keep," he answered her. She looks so tired, he thought. "Are you sure you are okay?"

"Just tired."

Mac reached over and pulled her into his arms, "I’ve heard hugs help tired, " he whispered, "just relax Barrett, everything is gonna be all right."

Nikki allowed herself to relax into Mac’s embrace laying her head on his shoulder. "Thanks MacGyver," she whispered sleep slurring her words.

"Anytime, Barrett, anytime."

"Damn it!" Edward Rosemount tossed the latest report across the desk. He didn’t like this, not one bit. It was too easy; Barrett meets up with Kee at Griffith Park; her ex-boyfriend, apparently father of her child, also shows up in the same place; Kee gets his head smashed in. There was no real evidence linking Kee to either one of them, until now. It was bad enough Barrett’s neighbors heard her fighting with the ex-boyfriend around seven thirty, but now her name shows up in Kee’s appointment book over the last several weeks. Shit, he thought, glancing at his watch. He had promised Bernice he would be there for dinner tonight. Sighing he shrugged into his coat, just as Jarvis walked in.

"Tell me it’s good news JJ." he growled.

Jarvis shook his head wearily, "Can’t. Forensics thinks they found the murder weapon. A nice little Lady Colt, just like the one Ms. Barrett has registered."

"Damn. Serial number?"

"Gone, filed off." Jarvis slumped at his desk, "One thing though--why smash the guy over the head when you’ve got a gun?"

"Good question, find me an answer, JJ. I’d stay and help, but if I miss dinner tonight the next case you have might be mine."

"Have a good night, Ed." Jarvis waved him off as he reached for the phone to call his wife.

Forty-five minutes later, Edward Rosemount was wishing he had stayed at the office; or better yet, had never heard of Remington Steele Investigations. Edward had hardly arrived when Bernice started in on him about the Kee murder. Demanding to know what evidence tied Nikki to the murder; berating him for being dense enough to even considering Nikki a suspect.

"Be fair, you hardly know the women," Edward challenged. "You met her what, six or seven weeks ago?"

"That’s long enough and you know it," Bernice shot back, "She’s a good mother, a good friend and would never, ever, hurt anyone."

"Are you willing to stake your life on that? Laurie’s life?"

"Yes." Bernice stood firm in her conviction, "Yes I am."

Edward reached out pulling her down beside him on the sofa. "Yeah, well so am I. I don’t think she killed this man." He smiled as Bernice relaxed beside him. "However someone is trying to pin this one her and the truth is I don’t have the manpower or resources to prove otherwise."

"That’s not right!"

"No honey, it’s not," Edward intertwined his fingers in hers, "it’s just the way life is sometimes. Now if Nikki could hire, Oh say, a good private detective, who just happened to get a glimpse of Oh," he dropped a folder on the coffee table, "...a copy of the police file..."

"If you think this gesture is going to help you get lucky Lieutenant" Bernice smiled at him, "you’re right." Leaning over she picked up the folder. "Just not tonight. We’ve got work to do."

"I hope we have time to do it," Edward said, "I’m afraid the DA is under a lot of pressure with this case."

"Then get your coat on, Detective." Bernice reached for the phone and punched the speed dial. "I’ll get the team assembled."

The offices of Remington Steele Investigations were lit up despite the late hour. Bernice’s phone call had gathered them for a late night strategy session. Frances had collected all the children several hours ago and was hosting a special sleep over at her house. Mildred had bullied her way into several databases and had Mac running background checks on all of Kee’s known associates. It was slow going and spirits were beginning to flag.

Laura lay stretched out on the sofa in Remington’s office; her office had been commandeered by Mac and his computer skills. She moved her arm from across her eyes long enough to watch as her husband made one more pass of the room. "For god’s sake Remington, sit down!"

"Sorry Love, I didn’t mean to wake you," Remington sat down in the chair beside her and dropped in feet on the coffee table. "I don’t know about you but right now I feel pretty useless."

"I know, but there is nothing we can do. Mildred and Mac have the computers working as fast as they can."

"There must be something we can do."

"There is."

The Steele’s turned and looked at Mac who was standing in the doorway between the two offices.

The man looks done in, thought Steele, "What can I do for you mate?"

"I need someone to do some good, old fashioned leg work."

A smile played round Laura’s mouth, "Remington loves leg work, don’t you love?"

"Laura--"

"What do you need Mr. MacGyver?"

"Just MacGyver, Mrs. Steele. I need some shipments to Kee’s warehouse verified."

Remington walked over and took the print out from Mac, "Hmm, Laura loves to stroll down by the docks, don’t you my dear?"

Several hours later, Laura and Remington returned to the office with the information Mac was looking for. As they walked into the reception area, they could hear voices from Laura’s office. Clearly, whatever truce Mac and Nikki had called had recently been broken.

An uncomfortable Mildred looked up. "It started about ten minutes ago. I haven’t heard such fighting since--" At Remington’s glare Mildred let the rest of the thought remain unspoken. Laura started toward the door when her husband grabbed her by the waist. "Whoa Love, don’t interfere."

"Damn it MacGyver! You are over reacting, I don’t know what your problem is with Lee and frankly I don’t want to know." Nikki leaned forward, "I do know I am sick and tired of fighting with you. Whether you like it or not, Lee Stetson is my boss."

"This has nothing to do with your job."

"We don’t know that Mac, the is a distinct possibility that this Mr. Kee could be a Chinese agent. That would explain why he approached me at the zoo."

"I can think of several reasons why this man approached you at the zoo, none of them having anything to do with Lee Stetson and his freaking Agency."

"Mac," Nikki walked over and touched his arm keeping her voice low and soothing, "I know you have little use for Lee or the Agency, but Amanda is my friend. She has been there for me since I was a teenager. As for Lee, he’s been a good friend to me. He’s not the same man he used to be, any more than you’re the same man he used to know. His relationship with Amanda has changed him."

"Sorry." Mac wrapped his arm around her waist, "I’ll trust your judgment on this, but I still don’t trust Stetson."

"It’s a start." Nikki smiled as a tentative knock sounded at the door, "Yes?"

Remington stuck his head in, "All clear?"

Nikki blushed slightly, "Sorry you had to hear that."

"Not to worry, Laura and I have made the windows rattle with a few go rounds ourselves. I think we found what you were looking for MacGyver."

Sydney Chow glared at Chang. "What do you mean they got aboard the LingChow and inspected the cargo? Who allowed that?"

"I’m afraid that they late hour and the unexpected inspection caught our drew off guard. It is a new crew and they were unaware of our arrangement with customs."

"Did they get their names?"

"Trevor Keech and a Miss Groggins."

"A woman? There are no female custom inspectors at San Pedro."

"It is possible that they are new to San Pedro, or that they were sent down from another location. Perhaps Kee’s death has made them suspicious."

Chow tapped his manicured nails on the tabletop. "Then we shall have to be more careful. When is the next shipment due?"

"In three days."

"Contact Hoffer, I want the Kee investigation wrapped up by then. I understand the woman’s ex-lover is now involved; I would prefer he is found guilty; a child needs his mother."

"As you wish Mr. Chow." Bowing Chang exited the room.

Edward Rosemount slammed the late Roger Kee’s date book on the table. Damn it, he thought, there has to be something here that will clear Nikki.

"Not going well?" Bernice stood in the doorway of the conference room. "I brought the agency appointment book along with my own," she said, "can you explain why you needed them?"

"Honey, you keep track of Laura’s schedule right?"

"Of course, along with Mildred and Mr. Steele’s."

"So if Laura was having lunch with Nikki it would be in the appointment book?"

Bernice nodded, "You’re hoping that we can prove that Kee’s book was faked by finding conflicting dates?"

"You are one smart cookie Ms. DuShaine."

Bernice turned and smiled at Jarvis, "JJ, how many times do I have to tell you call me Bernice?"

"Bernice, you are one smart cookie."

"Jarvis quit flirting with my girlfriend and start checking these dates, September 23rd--"

Bernice walked down the hallway a big smiled on her face, his girlfriend, she thought, Edward actually used the word girlfriend; so much for a nice uncomplicated fling.

Mac woke up at the sound of a door shutting. Groaning he rolled off the couch; it was still dark out. He squinted at the clock on the VCR, 5:35. He walked to the door and peeked out on the porch. Nikki sat curled up on the porch swing, her head resting on her knees.

"Care for some company?"

She shrugged as Mac sat down beside her, setting the swing in motion, "Nikki are you okay?"

Nikki swung her dark head toward him. "I may never be okay again Mac," she answered before returning to gaze to the city lights visible in the distance.

They sat in a comfortable silence watching the light and listening to the muted sound of traffic.

"We have to tell him." Nikki’s voice was hesitant.

"There’s plenty of time for that, first we clear up this mess, then we work on building a family."

Nikki looked up at Mac for a long moment, "Family. It sounds good. I never had much of a family."

"You do now," he said wrapping an arm about her shoulders, "There’s something I need to tell you."

The phone rang cutting him off, Nikki ran into the house to answer it, as Mac tried to figure out a graceful way to tell her about Sam, and wondered who would call at this hour. He looked up as Nikki came out of the house a grin on her face.

"They found proof that Kee’s calendar had been tampered with, proof that I never met with him. Edward says I’m off the hook."

Mac leaped up and hugged her, "That’s great Nikki," he whooped, before picking her up and swinging her in a circle.

"They’ve found evidence to prove Ms Barrett was not involved with Kee." Alex Hoffer stood on front of Chow’s massive desk, "In addition, a neighbor kid remembers seeing her on the front porch when he came home on the night in question. He has a curfew so he was watching the clock. He can put Ms. Barrett at her home at the approximate time of death. She is no longer considered the prime suspect."

Chow nodded, satisfied, "And the lover?"

Hoffer opened his notebook, "MacGyver, works for the Phoenix Foundation, ex-DXS, general all around do-gooder, but with a short fuse. He had no alibi for the night of the murder; says he was driving around, sat on the beach for several hours. I can plant enough evidence to keep Jarvis and Rosemount on his case."

Chow nodded, "Very good. Now tell me Alexander, why did you kill Roger Kee?"

Hoffer was silent, his gaze sliding to the young girl who sat beside Chow. Desiree looked bored, playing with her long dangling earrings and yawning.

"What makes you think I killed Kee?"

"Don’t insult my intelligence Alexander. I know you killed Kee. I believe it had something to do with the shipments from China. I want to know exactly why you killed one of my people, without my permission."

Hoffer swallowed, "Kee was going to the authorities," he lied smoothly. "I didn’t know until it was too late to contact you; I had to act fast." I had to get the goods out of there, he thought, get my share out on the street.

Chow narrowed his eyes and looked at the detective. Was he telling the truth? he thought. Hoffer was a coward; he wouldn’t risk his own neck. Absent-mindedly Chow stroked the hair of the young girl reclining beside him. "Very well Alexander. Do not act on your own again. Is that clear?"

As Hoffer nodded and made a beeline for the door, Chow turned to the girl, "So my beauty do you believe Alexander?"

The girl looked at her lover with big eyes, "Huh?"

"Listen Steele, I don’t like this anymore than you do." Edward Rosemount glared at the phone as if his displeasure could be seen by the man on the other end. "I think the MacGyver was framed too--" he leaned back and swung his feet on his desk.

"Yes, I agree, yes probably." He took a sip of his coffee, making a face at the cold liquid. "He’s in interrogation now, I’ll call as soon as I know something." After saying good bye he replaced the phone in it’s cradle and rubbed his temples. Damn, he thought, what else can go wrong? He opened his desk drawer looking for some aspirin, when the phone rang yet again. Picking it up he snapped, "Rosemount."

James Jarvis looked up as his partner stuck his head into the interrogation room. "Excuse me." He pushed himself away from the table without waiting for a reply from the man sitting across from him.

MacGyver watched the detective leave the room, man Oh man, he thought, this is not good. He had only caught a glimpse of the man with Nikki at the zoo; and given the revelations of the hours that followed, had forgotten she had even been talking to anyone that day. Now he was being accused of murdering this person in a jealous rage. Mac shook his head, stood up, and stretched. Glancing at his watch, he realized he’d been here for the better part of two hours.

Jarvis walked back in the room and held out his hand to MacGyver, "You’re free to go Mr. MacGyver."

Mac glowered, "That’s it? No apology? No explanation?"

Jarvis shrugged, "Sorry. Now you’re free to go."

Mac brushed past the detective and out the door without another word.

Edward slowed the car to a stop outside a warehouse near the waterfront. His cop’s instincts told him to be on guard, that something wasn’t right here. Glancing at his partner, he could tell the JJ had the same feelings. Nodding he got out of the car and as he walked toward the building he unsnapped his holster. He motioned Jarvis to go around to the back of the building and moved hesitantly closer to the door. It was a jar, never a good sign, he thought. He could hear voices as he slowly pushed the door open further.

"You had me fooled sister, you had us all fooled. You oughta be grateful I found you out instead of Chow. I’m just gonna kill you, he’d have you tortured."

Edward recognized the voice, Alex Hoffer, a ten-year veteran of the Vice Squad, the officer in charge of the Kee case. He couldn’t quite make out the other voice. It was soft and low, a woman’s voice, probably his snitch.

"Hell, I’d like to take the time to get to know you better if you know what I mean, but Chow is gonna figure out that Kee and I were skimming. I just can’t spare the time. It’s too bad really to waste a bod like yours, but those are the breaks. Time for you to make peace with your gods sweetie."

Edward swung the door open and leapt into the room. "Freeze Hoffer, LAPD," he shouted as he pulled his gun. Instantly Hoffer turned and aimed his weapon at Edward, who evaded the shot by rolling on the floor. Before Hoffer could get off another round, the young woman, known as Desiree, knocked him off balance giving, Edward the opportunity to pull himself into a crouch.

"Give it up Hoffer, it’s over."

Hoffer grabbed Desiree by the hair, "You willing to give up the Fed’s life college boy?" He pushed the gun at her temple, "Cuz I have no problem with killing her."

Edward took in the situation. Hoffer had no way out; he was desperate and certainly capable of killing the girl. He scanned the empty room; there was nothing to offer cover even if she could get away from Hoffer. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw his partner moving along the far wall. Good boy JJ, he thought, stay quiet stay low. "What do you what Hoffer?"

Laughing Hoffer tightened his grip on Desiree. "I want world peace, what the hell do you think I want? A way out of the country, shit head."

"It’ll take some time Hoffer," answered Edward keeping and eye on Jarvis’ progress. "Let the girl go and I’ll get you what you want." Two more minutes, he thought, let me keep him talking for two more minutes. He let his eyes drift to the young woman; she didn’t look frightened; she looked like a cat ready to spring. Good that meant she would follow his lead.

"Sure, college boy," sneered Hoffer, "I’m not some junked up dirt bag, I know the drill. Keep the perp talking until backup arrives. Well pal, I been monitoring the radio, I know you didn’t call for backup." He laughed, "Not smart, didn’t you ever read the book?"

Edward tensed; JJ was in position. Nodding slightly he looked directly at the young woman, "Yeah, well, I’ve never been one to go by the book."

At that moment, Jarvis came out of the darkness behind Hoffer and knocked him forward. Desiree dropped and rolled out of the way as the older man’s grip on her released. Regaining his balance Hoffer drew his weapon on Edward, but before he could squeeze the trigger Jarvis fired. With a surprised look on his face, Hoffer went down.

"So it appears that Roger Kee and Alex Hoffer were skimming profits from Chow. Hoffer killed Kee out of pure greed; he wanted the money to himself." Edward Rosemount leaned back and looked at his audience. "He planted the evidence first implicating Nikki and then MacGyver."

"And the young woman?" asked Remington.

This time Jarvis picked up the story, "She is a DEA agent, put in place to infiltrate Chows syndicate. Lucky for us she was there when Hoffer confessed to Chow that he killed Kee and that she was wearing a wire in the warehouse."

Laura patted Jarvis’ arm, "Lucky for Edward you were there Jimmy."

"Yeah," Edward smiled, "I owe you one partner."

Nikki looked up as Mac walked onto the porch, "Is he asleep?"

"Yep, thanks for letting me do that tonight."

"I want you to be part of his life Mac, to be his father. To be part of our family."

The very thought filled him with hope and he draped an arm over her shoulder and they watched as dusk fell and the stars began to appear. Together.