The President’s Son

 by: Miguel Sanchez

© 2009-2011 by the author

The author retains all rights. No reproductions are allowed without the author's consent. Comments are appreciated at...

Chapter 31

"Evelyn, I wish I had an answer for that. When I saw Pete, he said he'd figured everything out."

"How?"

"I don't know. Captain Langford said he gave Pete some papers to bring to me but I haven't seen them yet because all of this happened."

"Alright Ace, I'm heading over to GW and see him then I'll come back to the residence."

"That's fine. Before you go, I'm having NCIS handle the forensics on this."

"That's fine Ace. I'll see you when I can." Evelyn said then ended the call.

I had uniforms posted around the area until the NCIS forensics team arrived then I went up to the residence. As soon as I arrived Chris ran over to me. "W...was that officer shot Ace?"

"He'll be fine buddy," I said comforting him.

"He was the one at the internet café"

I nodded my head. "I remember Chris. Officer Morgan is a good officer. He probably saved lives today."

Bennie came over. "If he hadn't yelled, who knows what would have happened."

I saw Ed and Ben come in. Ed walked over and handed me a file. "Captain Langford asked me to give you this."

"Thanks," I said as I turned and looked at the boys. "I hate to say this but for the time being, the White House is on lockdown."

"Ace, you have the guy." Bennie said.

"Yes we do love but there are people here collecting evidence and that can't be compromised."

"So what can we do?" Chris asked.

I thought for a moment. "Well, you can use the pool or there is the game room."

"How long will it be like this?"

"They should be finished by the end of the day." I said. "If you need anything, call me Bennie."

Ed and I headed for the elevator. "If Peterson is behind all of this, he's probably the one who had Chris upload that video."

"You're probably right so this closes another case."

"I want to be sure." I started as the doors opened. "Can you get Captain Langford to put together a photo array so I can show it to Chris?"

"I'll give him a call and have him get that put together." Ed said as we got off at the ground floor then headed for the door.

I saw DJ there as I opened the door. "What did you find girl?"

She moved out of the way so I could open the door and step out. "I found the bullet that went through the officer's shoulder. It's lodged here in the mortar."

I watched as she managed to retrieve the round then she held it up for me. "It looks in pretty good condition."

"That it does so I know Dizzy will be able to compare this to the other bullet we have."

DJ took the round and went to put it with the other evidence then all of a sudden she stopped dead in her tracks. I went over to her. "What's wrong DJ?"

She was looking at the ground. "Look Ace, do you see what I do?"

I looked down. "Well I'll be damned. Get a cast of that please. We finally have a break."

After seeing that I told Ed I'd meet him at our office. I got a pair of coveralls then met back up with Ed. "What are those for?"

"He doesn't know it yet but he's losing his clothes."

"How come?" Ed asked.

"Evidence my friend," I said then went outside to get some paper bags.

Before we went in, Ed and I put our weapons in our desks in case he tried to get physical after the cuffs came off. We hung our credentials on our pockets then went to see the suspect. The guard opened the door and as soon as we stepped in Peterson started mouthing off. "I want my phone call. You can't keep me here. Where's my lawyer?"

"Shut your trap," I said then threw the coveralls at him. "This is how it's going to be. When I take those cuffs off, you're going to take off your clothes then put those coveralls on."

"And if I don't?"

Ed looked at him. "One way or another, they're coming off. You can do it the easy way or you can do it the hard way. It makes no difference to me."

He sat there and did nothing so I looked at Ed. "It looks like he's going to want the hard way."

I stepped outside and saw Dusty and Marshall standing by their van. I motioned for them to come over then Ellis smiled. "I hear you have the guy in custody."

I nodded my head. "That we do. I need your help for a minute."

"What's up Ace?" Dusty asked.

"It seems he doesn't want to remove his clothes so we can get them into evidence bags."

"He doesn't, huh?" Ellis said.

We went back to the room and Peterson was still sitting there. I saw him swallow hard when he saw the two NCIS agents standing there. Dusty walked over then went nose to nose with him. "I hear you don't want to remove those clothes, is this right?"

"What of it? You think you can?"

Ellis walked over and picked him up by the shoulders then put him on his feet. "If I have to do this, you're not going to like it so you better get with the program NOW!"

Peterson had to look up at Ellis. "Alright, alright. Take these cuffs off."

I went over and took the bracelets off Peterson. He acted like he wanted to fight until he felt Ellis's hand on his shoulder. "Don't even think about it. Now, you have 1 minute to strip and the clock is ticking."

"Right here in front of everyone."

"That's right, in front of everyone." Ellis barked. "I'm sure you ain't got anything I've never seen before."

"What; don't tell me you're a fag too." Peterson said.

"I'm no fag but I hear you got a pussy between those legs so get stripping before I do it."

The first Peterson did was kick his shoes off. I went over and picked them up and looked at the soles. "Hey, those are the only shoes I have."

"Tough shit," I said putting them into a paper bag. "Be thankful the floor in here has a carpet but if you don't like it, there is another room we can use."

After Peterson finally removed his clothes and put on the coveralls, Ellis returned with a pair of foam slippers. "Here, put these on."

Once that was done, Ed and I sat down. Ed looked at him. "What do you have to say for yourself?"

"I have nothing to say." He spat. "I want my phone call, I have rights you know."

I looked at Ed. "He has rights?"

Ed scratched his head. "I don't think so Ace. People like him don't get them."

"What the fuck do you mean?" Peterson yelled. "People like him don't get rights."

Ed smiled. "That's right. You see, I'm tempted on stamping two words on this file then you'll be put in a hole somewhere and forgot about until we get around to you."

"What words are those?"

"DOMESTIC TERRORIST," I said staring at him.

"WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?"

"Watch your mouth," Ed yelled back. "If we decide to label you as a domestic terrorist, you don't get squat.

"That's bull shit," Peterson said.

"You went through our training," I started. "I guess you didn't study The Patriot Act and all that it covers."

"Since when does shooting a cop classify as domestic terrorism?"

"Look at where you were dip wad," Ed started. "You were on the grounds of the White House."

"Big deal," He countered.

"When that ugly mug of yours is picked out of a line up it will be a big deal."

"What's that supposed to mean."

"Your foot print sticks out like a sore thumb." I said.

"My foot print?"

"Yeah, it's just like a finger print. In this case, it's very unique."

Just then, the cell phone that Peterson had started ringing. Ed looked at me and then to Peterson. "Who can that be?"

I didn't know but I was anxious to find out. I looked at it then answered the call putting it on speaker but not saying a word. "Hey you dumb fuck.

I recognized that voice. "Come on dip shit, say something."

"Hang up you asshole." Peterson yelled then the phone went dead.

Not only did I know the voice, we had the phone number where the call came from. I looked at my watch then realized I had an appointment with cal Matthews. It was almost noon so I tapped Ed on the arm then motioned him towards the door. We stepped out then I grabbed my cell. "I was supposed to take Chris to see my lawyer friend this morning. He had a slot open and was kind enough to work me in. It's just about lunch time."

"What about him?" Ed asked.

I smiled. "I'll get him what we'd give prisoners back when I was in the Air Force."

"What was that?"

I giggled. "Four slices of bread, two pieces of bologna and a bottle of room temperature water."

"You're kidding." Ed asked.

I shook my head. "That was lunch for them."

"What about the other meals?"

"They had filling meals. It wasn't the Ritz-Carlton but they didn't go hungry."

I took off up the hall and Ed was right with me. "Where are you going to find what you're looking for?"

"That's easy Ed," I said as I weaved my way down the halls. "The Navy Mess."

As we got near the mess, I saw a petty officer standing there and he saw us too. "Are you joining us for lunch Sirs?"

I shook my head. "No petty officer, not today. We have someone detained and he needs lunch."

"We have several entrees, today." He said.

Once again I shook my head. "I was thinking more of a couple of sandwiches. Do you think I could get four pieces of bread and two pieces of bologna?"

He gave me a strange look. "Anything else?"

"Oh yes, a bottle of water." I said.

He looked at me. "Does this have anything to do with the shooting earlier?"

I just smiled then he headed for the kitchen. While we were waiting, Ed and I chatted. "Do you think he's really going to eat it?"

"He has a choice." I said smiling.

"Eat it or go hungry?" Ed asked.

"You got it buddy."

The petty officer returned with a plate covered with aluminum foil and a bottle of water. "Here you go Sir. Did you want some mayo for those?"

I shook my head. "No thanks, this will do nicely."

We returned to the holding room then Ed sat the plate in front of Peterson. "What's this?"

"Your lunch," He said as we left then closed the door.

I waited a moment before we left then we heard a voice scream. "Is this what you expect me to eat?"

The guard looked at Ed. "Agent Miller, will there be someone to relieve us for lunch?"

He nodded his head. "I'll get two agents here in a minute."

On our way to the residence we met Captain Langford. "Agent Mason, here is the photo array you wanted."

I looked at it then smiled. "That's perfect, thank you so much Captain."

I grabbed my cell to call Cal when it rang. "Ace, it's Cal."

"Hi Cal, I'm sorry I stood you up but we had an incident here."

"Is everyone alright?" He asked concerned.

"We had a uniformed officer get shot but he'll be fine. I'm going to be tied up for the next couple of days so I don't know when I'll be able to get Chris in to see you."

"If you get some free time in the evening, I know a couple of boys who'd like to see you and Bennie."

"I'll have to think about that Cal but it might be arranged. Would you mind if there were a couple of extra agents?"

"Not at all Ace."

I'll see what can be arranged. I'll give you a call if I can get something worked out."

Gloria had a nice lunch for us then Evelyn came up. "Pete will be spending the night in GW because a surgeon had to put some internal stitches in his shoulder and he didn't want them torn."

Did he talk to you?" Ed asked.

She shook her head. "By the time I arrived he was in surgery. I stayed until I could see him in recovery then came here. He was doped up but he said he's glad you got him. He just wished he'd had his sidearm."

"I know Evelyn but I'm also glad he didn't. I know Pete would have shot to kill and I'm glad we have this guy alive."

She closed her eyes then nodded. "I know he would have."

Just then Bennie and Chris came out of the dining room after having one of Gloria's ice cream sundaes. Chris saw Evelyn then stopped. I saw him then held my arm out for him. "Chris, do you remember Evelyn Morgan?"

He smiled at her. "You were chewing your brother out at the internet café. I saw him again today and he told me to stay here then I heard he got shot. I hope he's alright."

Evelyn went over and rubbed his back. "He'll be fine. He's glad you're alright too."

I got the photo array. "Chris, I'd like you to look at these photographs and see if there is anyone you recognize."

I showed him the photos then he gasped. "It's this one, number 4."

"Thank you son," I said. "What do you and Bennie have planned for this afternoon?"

He smiled at me. "After that ice cream sundae Gloria made us, swimming is off for a couple of hours."

That brought out a round of laughs from us. "She's good for spoiling us. Why don't you hit the game room or try and crash a car or two on one of his video games."

His eyes lit up then he and Bennie took off upstairs for the game room. Evelyn came over. "Who is number four?"

I showed her the photo array. "Harold Peterson. Now, I need another favor."

"Not another wild goose chase, I hope." She said.

"Nope and I don't think sending those agents out was a wild goose chase. Pete said he figured it out but he had to get to the hospital before he could give me the details. I'd like you to call the Marshall's Service and have Nate Hill transferred up here."

"Why Ace?"

"I know who Peterson's accomplice is." I said without any emotion.

"What?" Evelyn shouted. "You mean Nate was helping Peterson?"

I nodded my head. "That's right and he made the mistake of calling Peterson while he was in custody."

"How did you know it was him?"

I looked at Ed and he laughed. "Ace put the call on speaker then just sat there waiting for the person on the other end to speak. As soon as he did, we both recognized the voice."

I took over then. "Now what I don't understand is how he managed to place a collect call to a cell phone. I didn't think that was possible."

"It would take memorizing two groups of numbers but it could be done." Dusty said coming up behind us.

Evelyn turned around. "I thought the phones were set that outgoing calls had to go through an operator?"

Dusty shrugged his shoulders. "I guess it also allows someone to make toll free calls."

"I'll make the call Ace." Evelyn said pulling out her cell phone.

Just then my cell rang. "We got him Ace."

"What have you got DJ?" I asked.

"His footprint is a match to the one I lifted at the crime scene of Officer Poole's death."

"That's great DJ." I said smiling. "I just hope Dizzy has as good of luck as you have had."

"I'll go to the lab and see what she has then I'll call you back."

I ended the call then listened to Evelyn. "Marshall Titus, when will you have a plane in Miami?"

Evelyn saw me staining there so she put her phone on speaker. While we were waiting, I motioned for her to follow me into the Treaty Room so we could have some privacy. "Madam Director, our next scheduled stop in Miami isn't until next week."

"Not good enough," Evelyn said.

"I don't have any control over that Ma'am." Titus said.

"We'll see about that." Evelyn said closing her phone looking at me. "Ace, can you talk with the President?"

I hated having to go to Ben with this. "Why don't you try going to the director and if he refuses to intervene, I'll go to Ben."

Evelyn thought for a moment. "Alright Ace, I'll see what he does."

She put her cell on speaker, "Director Forbes's office please."

She was put on hold while the call was transferred, "Director Forbes's office."

"May I speak with Director Forbes please? This is Director Evelyn Morgan, United States Secret Service."

Once again, she was put on hold. "This is Samuel Forbes."

"Director Forbes, this is Evelyn Morgan."

"Yes Evelyn, how can I help the Secret Service?"

"We have a suspect in the recent attacks on the President in the Federal Detention Center in Miami and we need him up here ASAP."

"Did you call the transport center?" He asked.

"I did Sam. I spoke with a Deputy Titus and he told me they wouldn't have a plane in Miami until next week. I explained the situation but he wouldn't budge."

"He wouldn't, huh?" Sam started then put Evelyn on hold. "Deputy Titus, this is Director Forbes."

We now had a conference call and Titus was the center of attention. "Yes Sir, what can I do for you?"

"Did you get a call from the Secret Service requesting a suspect be brought to DC as soon as possible?"

Titus stuck his foot in it big time. "No Sir, I haven't received any requests from them."

"Are you sure Deputy Titus? I have Director Morgan here with us and she assures me she called."

"Umm, ah just a minute Sir and let me check my papers."

"That's just enough, Titus." Sam said definitely angered at being lied to. "Don't try and lie to me. Now, did she call?"

"Yes Sir she did." He answered very contritely.

"Why didn't you accommodate her? Didn't she explain why she wanted this person in DC?"

"Yes Sir, she did."

"So you took it upon yourself to deny her request and then you top it off by telling me a bold faced lie. Do I have this correct?"

"Yes Sir," He said as he watched his career going down the crapper.

"Do we have a plane near Miami?" The Director asked.

I heard papers rustling in the background. "Yes Sir, there is a small plane in Jacksonville."

"If you knew there was a plane in Jacksonville, why did you tell Director Morgan you couldn't get a plane into Miami until next week?"

"Ah well Sir, some deputies are getting someone settled into their new residence."

I knew what that meant. "So you let a plane sit idle?"

"They said they would need it once their job was finished there."

"Bullshit," Sam said. "I want you to call the pilot and get him down to Miami, NOW!"

"What about the deputies in Jacksonville?"

"Tell them to fly back commercial." The Director answered.

"Will there be deputies to accompany the prisoner?"

"Yes, I'll see to that." The Director said.

"Will there be anything else?" Titus asked.

"Two things," Sam started. "First, you will apologize to Director Morgan this instant."

"Director Morgan, please accept my sincerest apology. I had no right to deny your request."

Evelyn sat there and didn't say a word. I could see her doing a slow boil then she finally spoke. "Deputy, you're lucky you don't work for me because you wouldn't be after the stunt you pulled on me."

There was a brief silence. "Yes Ma'am."

"What is the other thing you wanted me to do Director Forbes?"

"I want you in this office in the next thirty minutes. No Deputy working for me will lie to me as you did. Your career with the Marshalls Service is terminated. Director Morgan, a deputy will be in touch when Nate Hill is on the ground in DC."

"Thank you Director Forbes." She answered then closed her phone and looked at me. "I want you and Ed there when the plane lands."

I nodded my head. "I have a phone call to make."

She looked at me strangely. "Who do you need to call?"

"Adam Graham," I replied as I pulled my phone out.

"Who?" Evelyn asked.

"He's the Assistant US Attorney that prosecuted Bennie's attackers." I answered as I dialed the number, "US Attorney's office."

"Adam Graham please, Special Agent Rich Mason calling."

I was put on hold then Evelyn tapped me on the shoulder. "What do you need him for?"

"Warrants," I replied as Adam came on the line. "Adam, Rich Mason. I need a couple of warrants."

"Sure, on who and for what?" He asked.

"The first is a search warrant for the residence and any other property, storage places either owned or rented by Harold Peterson. He's currently in custody on the charge of attempted murder."

"Why Ace?"

"For starters we're holding him on a charge of attempted murder of a Federal Officer."

"Starters," Adam asked? "What's going on Ace?"

"Pandora's Box is finally closed, never to be opened again and a thorn in my side will be permanently removed. Adam, I hope the US Attorney assigns you this case."

"If you're the investigating agent, I'd love to. Now, what's the other warrant for?"

"An arrest warrant on Nate Hill. The charge is conspiracy to commit Domestic terrorism, accessory to commit during and after the fact."

"Geez Ace, you have a real hornet's nest on your hands."

"That I do Adam and I'm making sure that every I is dotted and every T is crossed too."

"I'll get those warrants right away."

"Thanks Adam. Maybe I'll put a bug in the US Attorney's ear so you get this case. Can you drop them off here? Evelyn has a team standing by to conduct the search on Peterson's place."

"You have that right now since he's in custody and charged with attempted murder."

"I know that Adam but I don't know what they'll find either. The last thing I want is to have any or all of the evidence collected tossed out. We have evidence right now that he murdered Officer Curt Poole but if there is anything at his place..."

"I understand Ace. I'll have those warrants to you within the hour."

I ended the call but before I could close my phone it rang. "Mason."

"Ace, it's DJ. I just got the ballistics back from Dizzy and it's a match to the two bullets we have here."

"That just drove the nail into his coffin." I said. "I'm going back down to the office and have another talk with him."

"Alright Ace, I'll get those reports over to you." DJ said then I ended the call.

Evelyn, Ed, Dusty and JR were standing there with smiles on their faces. "We got him right where we want him."

I started giving high fives then we heard another voice. "Who do you have where you want them and does this have anything to do with what I heard at NCIS?"

I saw Chris and Bennie standing at the top of the stairs. I motioned for them to come down and when they reached the bottom, I put my arm around Chris. "Yes it is buddy. Come with me and let's sit down."

I led him into the living room then we sat down. "What's going on Ace?"

I wrapped my arms around him then kissed him on the cheek. "Chris, I was planning on telling you this but not quite in this manner. Son, your parents weren't killed by a natural gas explosion."

"Did it have anything to do with what you were talking about at NCIS?"

I looked down then back at Chris. "Yes it was. C4 was put around the brick foundation of your house."

Tears started to fall so I was glad I had him in my arms. "Why Ace, my parents never hurt anyone."

This was going to be the hardest thing I ever had to tell someone. "Your parents didn't do a thing son. I hate to say this but they weren't the target."

"What?" He said staring at me.

I kissed him again. "I'm afraid so Chris, the target was you."

"ME?" He screamed. "Why? Was this over the video he gave me to upload?"

I sighed. "Yes it was son."

He was glaring at me. "I'll kill him."

He tried to stand but I held him firm. "No Chris, he's not worth it."

He was really fighting me now. "The hell he's not. He destroyed my life when he killed my parents. He's dead, do you hear me, DEAD!"

Bennie came over and sat on his lap so I could control Chris. "Trust me son, he will be but not at your hands."

When he heard that, Chris relaxed then broke down. "D...do y...you mean it?"

Bennie got off his lap as I held the crying teen. "Yes son, I do. I'll see to it The Assistant US Attorney seeks the death penalty."

Just then, my cell rang again. "Mason."

"Agent Mason, this is Officer Grant at the back gate. Assistant US Attorney Adam Graham is here and he has a couple of warrants. He says they're for you."

"Let him in Officer Grant. Ask him to come to the residence."

"Yes Sir," The officer said then I ended the call.

"Evelyn call your team, Adam's here with the warrants." I said then headed down to meet Adam.

I went downstairs and waited for Adam to pull up. "Hi Ace, here are the warrants. Now, do you want to explain to me what's going on here?"

I pointed to where he could park his car then we went upstairs. When we stepped off the elevator, everyone was mingling and Bennie was the first to see me. He saw Adam and remembered him from when he prosecuted Dean and Chuck. "Hi Mr. Graham, are you going to prosecute this guy?"

Adam shook Bennie's hand. "I don't know Bennie."

"I sure hope so. This bastard killed my friend Chris's parents."

"Well son, if that's the case I'll prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law."

Chris heard this. "If it's true? What do you mean if it's true?"

I wrapped my arms around Chris. "Easy son, Adam doesn't know all there is about the case yet. Now, I made you a promise and I fully intend to keep it. How about you let us talk while you and Bennie go swimming?"

He calmed down then smiled at me. "Alright Ace and I'm sorry I jumped you Sir."

Adam ruffled his hair. "That's alright Chris. I'm sure Ace has the evidence I'll need to put this guy away and if he murdered innocent people, I will go for the death penalty."

Chris and Bennie went upstairs then Adam and I went into the dining room. We were joined by Evelyn, Dusty, JR and Ed. "OK Adam, here's the skinny. We have a uniformed secret service officer in custody charged with attempted murder. Now, here's where it gets interesting. It seems this guy is behind my shooting and the murder of Officer Curt Poole."

"You have ballistics that proves this, I take it."

I nodded my head. "That I do. Now, it seems he has a partner in this too."

"Nate Hill?"

Again I nodded my head. "Yes but what I don't know is how much Nate aided him considering he was back in jail since I rearrested him in Orlando. I also believe the one we have in custody here is behind the telephone threats on Bennie.

"You believe this?" Adam asked. "You don't have any evidence to tie him to this?"

"Not yet but his home and other properties are now being searched so I don't know what they'll find there."

I saw him thinking. "Alright Ace, I'll wait until you have finished searching. Now I think you should read him his Miranda rights."

"Why, he's nothing more than a common terrorist." Evelyn jumped in.

"I understand and legally we don't have to offer him squat but we don't want this coming back to bite us in the ass on appeal either."

I didn't like it but Adam was right. "Fair enough Adam but I do want to hear what he has to say when I tell him we have him on a capital murder charge. Would you like to come with Ed and me when I drop this little bomb shell?"

"I'd love to. I've seen you interrogate a suspect before so I know this is going to be good."

Johnny was on the roof with the boys so I let him know where I'd be then we took off for the office in the West Wing. Ed and I walked in and there was Peterson still staring at the plate of food. "What's wrong, don't you like our cuisine?" Ed asked.

"This is slop, I ain't eating it." Peterson fired back.

"Suit yourself because that's all you're getting until you're moved to a jail cell."

"When's that going to be?"

Ed shrugged his shoulders, "When we get around to it."

"Fuck you assholes." He fired.

I'd had enough then I slammed my hand on the table. "Shut your pie hole dick head, we're calling the shots here. Now, why did you murder Officer Curt Poole?"

He sat back expressionless. "I didn't kill anyone but as I said before, I wish I'd had another second because if I had that faggot kid would be dead."

"What would you say if I said we could prove you killed Curt Poole?"

"I'd say prove it."

"Ballistics don't lie." Ed said.

He had a smug look on his face. "Did you see me pull the trigger? No, you didn't."

"We have you in possession of the weapon that killed him and shot me, fuck nut. Now, what do you have to say to that?"

"I say you can't put me in possession of it at the time that guy was killed."

We didn't have everything from Dizzy yet so I wasn't about to get into a pissing contest with him. "I want you to listen closely. You have the right to remain silent. If you give up that right, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to speak to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you. If you choose to answer questions without an attorney, you can stop at anytime and an attorney will be appointed for you. Knowing and understanding your rights as I have explained them to you, are you willing to answer my questions without an attorney present?"

He smiled then nodded. "Why not, you ain't got shit on me."

Just then I heard a knock on the door. Ed answered it then returned with a form. He looked at it then sat it down in front of Peterson. "Sign this."

He looked at it then scribbled his name on it. Ed and I both signed it as witnesses. "So you admit to wanting to kill Benjamin Jacobs, Jr." I asked.

"Yeah, I want him dead. He's a fucking faggot and this world needs to be eradicated of all of them."

I saw Ed glaring at him. "It's not illegal to be homosexual so you better get used to it."

"It's against God's law."

I wasn't going to debate that with him. "You have to answer to man's law here on earth and that you shall. You were in possession of the gun that killed Officer Poole and for that you'll face man's judgment."

"Prove it," He spat back. "Prove that I shot him."

I was getting mad and he was baiting me. "We can and we will."

I turned and left the room. Adam put his hand on my shoulder. "Don't let him get to you."

"We can tie him to the murder. His shoe has a cut in the tread and we have casts of it at the site where he shot Pete Morgan and the murder scene. We also have it on Chris's shoe."

"What?"

"Peterson was the one who brought Chris Teele the video to upload at an internet café. It seems he stepped on Chris's foot leaving a print on it. That is the same print found at the murder scene of Curt Poole and again today when he shot Pete Morgan."

Ed turned and looked at us. "Ace, do you know what Pete meant when he said he'd figured it out?"

I shook my head. "No I don't Ed but I have a ton of papers to go through from the agents who were re- interviewing Nate's references."

Adam looked at his watch. "If you'll excuse me, I have some work to finish back at the office before I leave for the day. I'll have a talk with the US Attorney about this case too."

I escorted Adam out to his car then watched as he headed for the back gate. I was about to head back inside when I saw Tonka. I guess he had to go so someone called the elevator for him. While he was doing his business, I thought about what Pete had said. He was holding a small file and in there was the key that gave him the ability to put two and two together.

Once Tonka was done, he and I went over to the office and I looked for the file. I saw one with 'Agent Mason' one it so I opened it. I saw two pieces of paper and one was an interview with Nate's mother. I read it and there wasn't anything on it that didn't jump out at me. I was about to read the next one but my phone rang and it was Johnny telling me the boys were sun burnt.

Tonka and I hurried back to the residence and found the two lobsters in Bennie's room. "Turn around boys and let me see how bad it is."

Bennie did as I asked and then lowered his trunks. "It didn't feel that hot outside Ace."

"Alright Chris, drop em too;" I said.

He did then his face turned as red as his butt. "Ace, this hurts."

"I can imagine buddy," I said turning to leave. "Stay put and I'll be right back."

I went down to the kitchen and saw Gloria then told her what happened. She giggled then reached for a bottle. "Come on Señor Ace."

We went back to Bennie's room. "Oh mijo, not again."

Chris shrieked and Bennie hung his head. "El sol no se parecía tan caliente." (The sun didn't seem so hot.)

She headed for the bathroom and started filling the tub up with water then poured the contents of the bottle in it. "Get in and soak boys, you'll feel better when you get out. I'll get Señor Ace the ointment. Chris, don't feel bad, I've seen Bennie lots of times."

Bennie looked over to Chris. "I've sun burned my butt more than a few times."

The boys got into the tub then I got the ointment from Gloria. "Boys, soak in there for about 20 minutes then put this ointment on the worst spots."

I went over to my room and sat down and looked at the second page in the folder. There wasn't much on it but two names, one of which kind of stood out and that was Thomas Hill. The other name on the paper was a Naomi Penderton which meant nothing to me. I went back into the boys' room to see how they were doing. "Ace, what's in the water?" Chris asked.

I smiled. "It's white vinegar."

"What, we're going to stink."

Bennie had a case of the giggles. "Nah but your dick is going to get pickled."

"You'd like that." He fired back.

"After you've soaked, take a shower and the smell from the vinegar will come off. Stand up guys."

They stood up and I looked carefully and didn't see any blisters. "How bad is it Ace?"

I kissed Bennie on the lips. "Not as bad as it could have been love. You'll need the ointment on your butts and in between your shoulder blades but the rest of you isn't that bad. I have to go back down to my office for a few minutes."

Before either of them could say anything my phone rang. I looked and it was the US Marshalls Service. "Agent Mason, the plane carrying Nate Hill will be landing in about 30 minutes."

"How are you transporting him to jail?"

He laughed. "We have a special vehicle for people like him."

"Will you have room for another person?"

"Sure, do you have an arrest warrant?"

"In my hand," I replied. "Would you happen to have a pair of prison coveralls?"

"Sure, we keep several sets with us."

"Sounds good, I'll get this guy ready for transport. What airport is Nate flying into?"

"We have a private hangar at Dulles."

"We should be there before the plane touches down." I said ending the call.

"Where do you have to go Ace?" Bennie asked as the boys stepped out of the shower.

"I have to go to Dulles Airport."

Chris looked at me. "Is that guy going to jail?"

"Yes he is son. He'll be held in a jail here until his case comes up for trial."

"He won't be put to death yet?"

"Not yet," I replied walking over then giving him a gentle hug.

"How come?"

"He has to be found guilty by a jury first and then a judge has to agree with the verdict."

"Has he ever disagreed with a jury?"

I had to think. "I'm sure somewhere a judge has but not that I know of."

"Do you think he'll disagree with a jury here?"

I shook my head. "I don't think so but I would also have to say that anything is possible. Now don't go and get yourself all upset. He'll meet justice."

"Alright Ace, I trust you."

I pulled out my cell and called Ed and told him to get Peterson ready to be taken to Dulles to be transferred to jail. I took Tonka with me in case he decided to give us a hard time. I saw two agents with him. "Hold up guys."

They stopped then Peterson turned around. I had Tonka where he couldn't be seen. "Where the fuck are you taking me?"

I had Tonka stay then went to the holding room and opened the door. The agents brought him back inside and removed the cuffs as he glared at me. "You're not going anywhere in those coveralls. Take them off."

"Like hell I will," He shouted. "I'm not going outside in my underwear."

I patted my leg then Tonka came up to me. I moved over then he stuck his head around the door jam and I thought Peterson was going to wet himself. "Keep that beast away from me."

"You have 30 seconds to get those coveralls off."

"You can't..." He started to say then I stepped inside the room with Tonka at my side, "OK, ok, ok."

I stopped and watched as he quickly shed the coveralls then put the cuffs back on him. "Give me any problems and you'll get to know Tonka real quick, do we understand each other?"

He stood there and stared at me but didn't say a word until I snapped my fingers and Tonka barked. "Yeah, I understand ya."

I led him back out the stopped at the door. I saw an agent standing there with ankle chains. I took the chains then knelt down and put the first one around his ankle then I went flying backwards. I reached up and grabbed Tonka with one hand then pulled on the chain with the other hand causing him to kiss the floor. "Damn you, Peterson, you're lucky I didn't let the dog have at your ass."

"Fuck you Mason." He said as the other agent came over and dropped his knee into his back. "Oomph. That's right, take advantage of a handcuffed individual."

I slapped the other cuff on him then got him to his feet. "Shut up or you'll be going there gagged."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah."

"You asked for it," I said. "Take him out to the van and I'll get a gag for him."

Once that was taken care of, we left for Dulles. When we arrived, there was a Marshalls's car waiting for us and we followed it to a private fenced in compound. "Man Ace, this is quite the compound."

I nodded my head as a deputy came up to the Hummer. "Where is the guy you have for us?"

I pointed to the van behind us then he directed us into a hangar. Ed and I got out of the Hummer then went outside and saw a solid black truck heading for the hangar too. Ed and I looked at each other and we both shook our heads. "Now that's a way to transport a prisoner."

"I can just see Nate's eyes when he's led over to it."

Ed broke out into a laugh. "He's going to flip."

Just then I heard jet engines and saw a solid black private plane touchdown then went screaming past as it began to slow down. A few minutes later it came taxiing over then came to a stop and cut its engines. A tow cart came out and pulled it into the hangar then Ed and I came in as the doors were closed. We saw the steps come down and a Deputy Marshall step into the door. I took the warrant out of my pocket then walked up the steps. As soon as we stepped aboard, Nate started in, "Well, well look who's here."

"Shut your mouth Nate," I said walking over.

"Why should I? I can speak anytime I feel like it."

"Well, let's see how much you're talking when you see this piece of paper I'm holding."

He was smiling until he saw it was a warrant. "What the fuck is that."

Ed looked at him. "What does it look like Nate? It's called a warrant and it has your name on it."

"For what?" He shouted. "I've been in jail."

"You're being charged with conspiracy to commit domestic terrorism." I said.

"Conspiracy, to what," Nate shouted.

"I didn't speak a foreign language. "You're being charged with conspiracy to commit domestic terrorism."

"What, you think I'm behind the plane that tried to fly into Air Force One?"

I didn't have time to go into it with him. "Stand up Nate."

He stood up but kept talking. "Look, I know what I tried to do to Bennie but whoever did that was a total nut case."

I was about to put the ankle chains on him when I remembered we had steps to walk down so when he was off the plane, I put the cuffs on him. We walked him over to the transport vehicle and a Deputy Marshall opened the door. "In you go Hill."

His eyes opened wide. "I'm not getting into that."

I put my hand on his shoulder. "Oh yes you are so you can do it the easy way or the hard way."

He stepped up as Ed and I held onto him then he was led into a small cubicle and placed into a solid steel chair. The Deputy seat belted him in then we left closing the door. We went over to the van and got Harold out then led him over to the vehicle. "What the fuck is this?"

"This is your chariot to jail." Ed said smiling.

"The hell it is."

I gave him a look then whistled. Tonka came out then sat beside me. "Would you like him to help you in?"

"Alright, you win." He said as we helped him inside then a Deputy Marshall put him in his own cubicle like Nate was.

He closed the door on that cubicle then I saw him put a cushioned seat back inside a welded holder. He closed the outside door then I looked at him. "That's an interesting vehicle."

"You're probably not going to believe it but this was confiscated by the DEA. They were doing a raid on a known supplier and when they arrived, they saw the driver's door and the back door opened so they moved in."

"They would have played hell stopping an armored car." Ed said.

"Well, there are things out there that could stop it but taking it out on a city street was something they didn't want to have to do."

"I can't say as I blame you." I said. "I know what it would take and it would really pose a logistical nightmare."

The deputy waved for the driver to start the vehicle up. "We have to get the air circulating in there. Each cubicle is sound proof so there is no way they're going to be talking to each other."

We had to get back to the residence. "Thanks for taking this guy off our hands." Ed said as we got into the Hummer.

After Nate and Harold were off to the secured area at the DC Jail, Ed and I returned to the residence then my cell rang. "Mason."

"Ace, it's Dusty. We're just leaving the office heading back to the residence."

"Did you let Chris know?" I asked, worried about the two boy lobsters."

"JR knocked on Bennie's door but didn't get an answer so he looked in and both boys were curled up on the bed napping. Man, they got fried a little."

"Yeah, they did. I'll see you both when you get here."

"One more thing," Dusty interrupted. "We have a stack of reports to go over too."

"I guess we can go over those after dinner."

"Alright Ace, we'll be there shortly."

I went upstairs while Ed went over to the West Wing. I eased the door to Bennie's room open and saw the boys watching television. "How are you feeling guys?"

Bennie hopped up and came over to give me a hug. "My butt's alright but my shoulders are still sore."

Chris chimed in next. "I won't let this happen again, Ace. My shoulder blades hurt too."

I had to get washed up for dinner. "Put some more cream on then get dressed for dinner."

As I came out of Bennie's room, I saw Dusty and JR standing there. "How's Chris?"

I knocked on Bennie's door then eased it open. "Chris, JR and Dusty are here."

"Tell them to come in."

The boys were in their underwear then the guys went in. I went and washed up then met everyone for dinner. After we ate, Ben decided to spend some time with the boys which gave Ed, Dusty, JR and I time to go over the forensic evidence reports Dizzy and DJ had completed.

The four of us decided to go into the Treaty Room where we could all sit around the table. Dusty pulled out a stack of papers that had a bunch of paper clips on them. He handed Ed and I a set. "These are the ballistics reports on the bullets."

Ed and I looked at them along with the attached photos. "These look good Dusty. Are there any fingerprint reports?"

JR shook his head. "Dizzy dusted it and it was clean."

"What about the serial number?" Ed asked.

"She's still working on that." JR started. "It was filed off but she's trying to raise it using acid etching."

"I hope she can so we can try and ascertain who bought it and when. What else do you have there?"

JR handed us another stack of papers. "These are the footprints DJ worked on. The casts taken at the two crime scenes here are identical. The print on Chris's shoe is a partial match but we believe there is enough there to tie him to Chris."

"We also have a positive ID on him from Chris." Ed added.

The last stack was the reports on Peterson's clothes. As expected, his shirt tested positive for gunshot residue. "Has Dizzy had the chance to go over the things ATF sent over?"

"Not yet Ace." Dusty started. "She took Pete's shooting and made that her main priority. Once that was done, the US Attorney could go forward with that case. Charges on the others can always be added later. Have you heard from the agents conducting the search on Peterson's house?"

I shook my head. "Not yet and that is concerning me. They've either hit the mother load of evidence or they've struck out and they're still searching."

No sooner had I said that when my cell rang. "Ace, it's Evelyn, they've just finished searching Peterson's apartment."

"Tell me they didn't strike out."

"I don't think so. One of the agents said they found a laptop and a PC. They're bringing that in so our techs can go over it."

"Evelyn, I'd like JR to be there when they do it."

"Why Ace?"

"He's the best tech I've seen as well as being one hell of a field agent. Let's just say I'd like to have all the bases covered."

"Alright Ace, I know this is a joint investigation so I don't have a problem with Agent Carl being there."

"Have the agent and tech come over to our office here and JR will work with them. I hope we have a lot of information on there."

"What do you mean Ace?"

"I'm referring to the telephone calls to the switchboard. Right now, we have no solid leads, just a lot of speculation."

"Keep me posted." Evelyn said then ended the call.

JR was looking at me. "Did I hear you volunteer me for another project?"

"I figured you'd want to be there to go through Peterson's computers to see what's on them."

"Oh hell yeah I would. This guy seems very bold so I bet they're loaded with stuff."

"The agent who seized it and a tech will be here in the morning."

"I hope you have what we'll need here."

"Well, I'm sure they'll have it at the main office if we don't. We can get it over here without a problem."

We finished our work then Ed went home for the night. Dusty, JR and I went into the living room and found Ben surrounded by the boys. I looked at the television and a movie was going off. He looked over and saw us standing there. "Did you get all of your work done?"

"We went over a lot of reports. There are more we'll need but it seems everything is coming together nicely."

"Glad to hear it. Now, would you like to take your boys?"

I walked over and Bennie was sound asleep on Ben's leg as was Chris. JR woke Chris and I got my baby up. Chris sat up and smiled when he saw JR. "Are you ready for bed?"

He nodded his head. "Yeah JR, I don't know why I feel so sleepy."

Ben wrapped his hand around his shoulder. "I think it might be because you know the person who killed your parents is in jail now and will never be able to hurt anyone again. The stress you were feeling before isn't there now."

He looked over at Ben. "I do feel better knowing that now."

JR held his hand out and Chris took it then I got Bennie up. "Are you ready for bed too, love?"

He stood up then yawned as he leaned against me. "Yes I am baby."

I took Bennie to my room and I saw Chris heading upstairs with JR and Dusty. Bennie sat on the bed and I saw him nodding off again so I quickly got him undressed. I stripped then together, we headed for the bathroom. After doing our business, we curled up together then I gave Bennie a kiss. My love was sound asleep so I held him close and joined him in dreamland.

The next morning, Bennie was gazing at me when I opened my eyes. "How long have you been awake?"

"Not that long," He replied as he leaned down and kissed me.

Bennie's kiss was very passionate but my bladder was making it hard for me to respond. I managed to break the kiss and look at him. "Can you hold that thought?"

He gave me a funny look but I couldn't wait so I quickly got out of bed and hurried to the bathroom. I made sure all the drips were out then washed my dick. When I returned Bennie was lying there stroking his dick looking at me, "How about if I hold this?"

I stretched out then took his dick into my mouth and began sucking him. Bennie started doing the same to me then soon we gave each other a pre-breakfast snack. I turned around then kissed my lover. "I preferred holding it my way."

He returned my kiss then smiled. "Oh yeah, I like that way better too."

We got up and took a shower then went out for breakfast. While everyone was eating, I heard the buzzer to the door on the west wing go off letting me know someone entered the residence. I got up and looked to see who it was. "Pete, what the hell are you doing here?"

"The doctor said I could go home. He gave me a prescription for pain medication and I have to see him back in a week to get the stitches removed."

"Did you call Evelyn?"

Before he could answer, my cell rang. I looked at who was calling. "Ace, we have a problem."

This didn't sound good. "Don't tell me Nate or Harold escaped."

"No, not that," She started. "Pete's gone."

I looked at Pete when she said that. "I think he's found."

"What do you mean?"

"He's here at the residence."

"I'll kill him," She said. "I told him I'd be there today and pick him up. Can I talk to him?"

I covered the mouthpiece as I handed him the phone. "You're in deep shit."

"Hello," Pete said softly.

"Didn't I tell you I'd be here to pick you up this morning?"

"Yeah Sis but I wanted out of there."

"So why didn't you call me so I didn't waste my time driving all the way here."

I went back into the dining room while Pete dealt with his sister. A few minutes later, he came in and handed me my phone. Ben looked at him. "Nice to see you're in one piece."

I couldn't resist that opening. "He might not be like that after Evelyn gets a hold of him."

Poor Pete just looked at the floor. "I should have called her."

"Have you had breakfast yet Officer Morgan?" Ben asked.

Pete shook his head. "No Sir, I left before they brought the trays up."

"Well, come and sit down; there is plenty here." Ben said.

Pete sat across from Chris. "I'm glad you're alright man."

"It should be me saying that to you Chris." Pete started. "I'm sorry about the way I acted towards you at the internet café that day, it was unprofessional and I was out of line."

Chris nodded his head then smiled. "I accept your apology."

Chris got up and helped Pete get his plate fixed then we finished eating. After we were done, I looked at Pete. "We need to talk man."

"What about Ace?"

"About what you told me before you left for the hospital. That you'd figured everything out."

Just then I heard the elevator doors open. I stuck my head out and there was Evelyn along with Ed and Johnny. I knew Pete was in for it so I didn't say a word when she walked in. "Pete Morgan, if you weren't recovering from a gunshot wound I'd tear you up."

"I'm sorry Sis," Pete said sullenly. "I wanted out of there; you know how I am with hospitals."

"I do but you could have called. Where did you get the clean clothes?"

"I stopped by my apartment before coming here."

"Ace tells me you've figured this out. Would you care to fill us in?"

I stood up. "I think we should go into the Treaty Room."

Ben got up. "Boys, can you go upstairs and occupy yourselves while the adults talk down here?"

Bennie and Chris got up. "Sure Dad, come on Chris let's go. Ace, can you tell us when you're done down here?"

I nodded my head then they took off. I got up and fixed another cup of coffee then looked at Pete. "OK Pete, the floor is yours."

He looked at Evelyn then over to me. "First off, let me say I might have looked at a few things I shouldn't have."

Evelyn glared at him. "Such as?"

"Nate's personnel file."

"WHAT?" Evelyn shouted. "What the hell..."

"Calm down Evelyn," I said.

"Calm down, he broke protocol." She said firmly.

"Look, I understand that and normally I wouldn't be sitting here quite so calm but we now know who is behind this shit and he's finally behind bars."

"He did that when he shot Pete." Evelyn said.

"I know but Pete says he's figured out the why, which as of now, I haven't a clue."

Pete was about to talk when Evelyn's cell rang. I waited until she was done then she looked at me. "Tech is here with the computers."

I looked at JR. "OK man, you're up. I want those hard drives copied then inspected closely. Also, do you know how to find things that have been deleted?"

"That's a piece of cake unless he's wiped it with a program." JR said as he stood up and headed for the door.

"Let's hope he didn't." I said as he disappeared from my sight. "Pete, you're up. Tell us what you know."

"There was one thing I couldn't find out is if and when these two people were together."

I was totally confused now. "Pete, you're talking in riddles."

"Peterson and Hill are related."

It was a good thing I wasn't holding something in my hand otherwise, I'd have dropped it. "They're what?"

Pete was nodding his head. "That's what I said, they're related. They're half brothers."

"How'd you figure this out?" I asked as I watched Evelyn shaking her head.

"Well, again I did something I shouldn't have."

"What did you do Pete? Did you hack into the database?"

He shook his head. "Nope, I didn't have to do that."

"So how in the hell did you do it?" Evelyn barked.

"I logged into it."

"What?" She screamed.

"That's what I said sis, I logged into it."

Evelyn stood up and I could tell she was ready to explode. "Will you calm down Evelyn? I remember something we did just before Bennie and I left for Florida. He was made AIC and along with that, he was able to access files. When we returned, there were so many things happening, we never changed his security settings. Now, I'm glad we didn't. Go on Pete."

"Hold it," Evelyn said. "If you figured out that Nate and Peterson are related, how did we miss it?"

"To look at their files side by side, you'd never see it. On Peterson's birth certificate, there is no father listed." Pete started.

"So you're just guessing, is that it?" Evelyn interrupted.

"Evelyn, will you be quiet and stop interrupting." I said getting a little steamed. "I'm the lead agent on this case so let Pete explain without any more interruptions please. Go on Pete."

Pete glared at Evelyn. "No, I'm not guessing."

I looked over to Pete. "I take it you've seen Harold Peterson's file."

"Yes I have, Ace."

"When did you see it and why," I asked.

"I saw it a couple of days ago, when he gave Agent Forrester a hard time when she came here."

"How'd you hear of that?" I asked out of curiosity.

"Through the grape vine," He said as I was staring at him that meant he better go on. "Captain Langford was ripping him for it and an officer heard it and word spread. Langford wasn't happy that he treated a fellow agent so rudely."

"That sounds familiar, doesn't it?"

He looked down and nodded his head then continued. "Well, when I looked at it nothing really jumped out at me. I looked at his application and a few other things when his birth certificate came up. I saw the mother's name but there was no father listed. He was raised in the south but that didn't mean a lot either so I closed it.

Pete stopped for a minute and got a cup of coffee. "Yesterday, Captain Langford gave me some papers that you'd had printed on our printer rather than yours and told me to get them to you. I went to your office and you weren't there and well, my curiosity got the better of me. I looked at them and there was an interview in there that knocked me for a loop. The woman mentioned Naomi Penderton and Thomas Hill and the fact Naomi got pregnant."

"Pete, I've read that but she never said she ever saw Naomi with a child and Harold's last name is Peterson, not Penderton." I said as I stood to get another cup of coffee.

"I know but she could have put him up for adoption." Pete replied.

"That's possible but I don't see a compelling reason for a judge to order the adoption records to be opened." I said.

"I think that could go a long way towards a motive if we knew one way of another." Ed said.

Pete nodded his head. "I know but there is one more thing. "Nate and Harold did work together for about a year. Before Nate was assigned to the President, Harold was transferred here so it's more than possible that the two of them found out they were related."

"But that doesn't answer the nagging question as to why Peterson would take a shot at me, kill a fellow officer and also want to kill Bennie."

"Think about it Ace," Pete said standing to get another cup of coffee. "Who put Nate in jail and why?"

"I did and the why is common knowledge." I said.

"Exactly, now I also heard what he said about Bennie yesterday. This tells me he's just as much of a bigot as Nate is and maybe worse."

"That's a very valid point Pete. We know he's behind the video but proving he hired or conspired with someone to fly a plane into Air Force One is going to be tough."

Pete shook his head. "Maybe not, I think a check of his bank accounts might give you a trail."

He had a point. "That's a good place to start I guess. We also need to know what was found at his residence because that could give us even more evidence. Now, I'll talk with Adam and see if the current circumstances are compelling enough to get Peterson's adoption records opened. Ed, I'll need you to look at Peterson's file and see who he listed as his parents then they'll need to be interviewed. I do have another idea though and that is to let Nate stew for a while then go and interview him. If he sees his back is against the wall with no way out, he's liable to do some singing in order to save his own bacon."

Ed was shaking his head. "You love tormenting the hell out of him, don't you?"

I looked up. "Now Ed, would I do that?"

Everyone was in stitches. "In a heartbeat."

I looked at Pete and I could tell his shoulder was bothering him. "Pete, now that we have the pieces to the puzzle together, both of them are facing some stiff jail time and quite possibly the death penalty. You need to get home and just rest and let your shoulder heal."

"I know going into those files wasn't right but I don't feel so bad that I did it."

"You took the initiative when the other agents were handling business here, I don't know how many would have done that."

"Ace, you're not condoning this are you?" Evelyn asked.

"All things considered, yeah I am. The ends definitely justified the means but don't think I want people to start breaking protocols because you know better. This was an unusual case so some unusual means were needed."

I could see her mulling over what I'd said. "Pete, you're lucky what you did answered questions and filled in a lot of blanks. Don't ever do it again."

Pete shook his head. "I won't."

"Evelyn, can you take Pete home or would you like me to get a uniformed officer to do that?"

"I'll take him home. I have some work to do back at headquarters before an afternoon meeting."
 

To be continued...