Vengeance and Understanding

By Ziggy

Part II

Hank closed the door to his office before offering Richard a seat. He took the seat behind his desk, though he couldn’t get himself to relax. "Richard, I’d ask to what I owe the pleasure of your visit, but I have a feeling I’m not going to like it."

"I’m afraid you’re right, Hank, you won’t like it. I got notice from your in-laws’ attorney. They’re suing for custody of Darcy and Tracy."

"What?!"

Richard nodded. "I’m afraid so, Hank. They’ve hired the best attorney Chicago has to offer. Of course, if you want to make things easy and just hand the girls over, they’ll be happy not to ruin your career and your life," he finished sarcastically.

"What gives them the right?!" Hank thundered. "What the hell can they possibly say that will prove I’m an unfit father?!"

Unruffled by his client’s anger, Richard snapped open his briefcase. He extracted a small stack of papers. He laid them on the desk before closing and setting aside his ‘case. He flipped through the first couple of pages then extracted one. He laid it on top of the others. "Your job, for one, with the odd hours and being much too dangerous. Darcy and Tracy have already lost a mother, what will it do to their mental health if you die in a fire?"

"For the love of— Richard, Elly died in an accident! What’s to keep that from happening to me? Besides, they take the girls away; they’re losing me anyway! Have they thought about what a custody battle will do to the girls’ mental health?"

Richard held up a hand. "Hank, I’m on your side, remember?"

The captain was instantly contrite. "I know. I’m sorry."

"It’s all right. I’m just as outraged as you are, Hank. I’ve never known you to be less than an exemplary father. Between you and your extended family in the fire department to raise them, I think Darcy and Tracy are the luckiest girls around. Personally, I would have loved to have had a firefighter in the family." As he regarded the paper in front of him, Richard became the serious professional once again. "The main charge they are leveling against you is concern over what your mental health will ultimately do to the twins. They say you haven’t been the same since Elly’s death and during the past couple of weeks while the girls were away, you had an especially hard time dealing with it. They say that you became moody and harassed your crew, even going so far as to physically abuse them."

Hank dropped his head in his hands. Oh, shit! Cal Adams can’t get me one way, so he’s going to get me another! Damn it all! After a moment, he raised his head to see Richard looking at him with concern. "The department didn’t press any charges against me."

"Hank, you know as well as I do it doesn’t matter. The fire department is it’s own little world and disciplines its members as its sees fit. Just because they didn’t have enough evidence to charge you with something, doesn’t mean it can’t be used against you in this hearing."

"I didn’t do anything, Richard! Nothing that didn’t have a good reason, anyway!"

"It doesn’t matter to me, Hank. I’ll defend you against these charges being filed by your in-laws, no matter what you did."

"Damn it, you make it sound like you believe what they’re telling you about me!" Hank abruptly stood. His voice rose in anger. "How can I expect you to defend me against these false charges if you believe them yourself? What I did to my crew… there’s a perfectly good explanation for it!"

Richard got to his feet. He put a comforting hand on his client’s arm. "Hank, calm down! First of all, I do not believe any of these charges being filed against you. I’ve known you for a long time; I saw how Elly’s death affected you. Not once did I even think those girls of yours were in any danger from you while you grieved. Your first and foremost concern has always been for their welfare. Anybody who knows you knows that!" His steady tone of voice had the effect he wanted: Hank relaxed, the anger left his eyes. "There’s no reason to believe they’re in any danger now. We just have to prove to the judge that there is no reason for these charges. We’ve got enough character witnesses in the fire department alone to prove you’re a great guy and fantastic father."

Richard sat down. He nodded when Hank did the same. "Now, why don’t you explain to me what’s happened?"

And Hank did just that. He confessed to his attorney all that had happened after the twins had left to visit their grandparents. "You can’t imagine how terrible I feel knowing what I’ve done to my crew. Stoker’s got a black eye that looks like he’s gone a round with a champion boxer. I’m surprised I didn’t break Kelly’s leg and that Lopez isn’t afraid I’m going to punch him out every time I so much as raise my voice to him. Despite everything I did, they still refused to press charges against me, Richard. They believed me when I explained what happened."

"The part about your mental status the past month is explained, then," Richard stated. "We get Kate to testify—"

"No!" The captain shook his head. "I don’t want her involved! I won’t have her getting into trouble because of what she did."

"Hank, without any medical proof that proves you had been drugged, we need her there as a witness that this is what caused the change in your behavior," Richard explained.

"She has nothing to do with this! Forget it!"

Hank’s attorney sighed. "All right, if that’s what you want." He leafed through some papers. "The custody hearing starts in a couple of days."

"What?" Hank interrupted. "So soon?"

"Your in-law’s attorney pushed for an emergency hearing. Craig Elio has clout outside of Chicago, as well, it seems. Concern for your daughters’ well-being was the reason for pushing it through so fast."

Hank swore softly.

Richard continued, "I’ll talk to the judge about postponing the hearing during the days you have to work. I can work around your coworkers’ schedules to get them in to testify. I’ll talk to people who have worked with you, who know you, a couple of your superiors, and see if they’ll be willing to stand up for you."

"Give it to me straight, Richard, what do you think the chances are I’ll lose my girls?"

"I think we’ve got a very good chance of winning this, Hank. The girls are old enough to express their opinions. What they want will count for a lot, too."

Hank tapped his desk nervously. "Is there any way of sparing them this? I mean, do they have to go into the courtroom? Can’t they give testimony or whatever directly to the judge without having to be cross-examined? The last thing I want is for them to see me fighting against Elly’s parents. If I should lose and they end up in their custody, I don’t want them hating their grandparents. Deep down, they mean well. They only want what they think is best for Darcy and Tracy, too."

Richard nodded. You only want what’s best for them, Hank. If you thought it would do any good, you’d quit the fire service and turn the girls over to your in-laws in a heartbeat. It would kill you, but you’d do it. "That can be arranged, Hank. In fact, I recommend it. Custody battles ultimately end up hurting the kids the most. By not wanting them to witness the fight between you and their grandparents speaks volumes for how much you care about them."

"Then arrange it."

The lawyer jotted down some notes in his notebook. "Your in-law’s attorney did insist on one thing, which the judge approved. You aren’t going to like it."

"I don’t like any of this," the firefighter growled.

"They want Darcy and Tracy placed in a foster home until after the hearing."

"No!"

"It’s not up for debate, Hank."

"You’re damn right it’s not up for debate! No! I just got them back, I’m not giving them up, especially not to a foster home!"

"Hank, the judge is just taking standard precautions. It’s not you, they do this in most custody cases to keep the guardians honest."

"I don’t intend to kidnap my own daughters, Richard! I intend to win this damn thing!" Hank paused, then added, "Can’t they just stay with the Whitleys?"

"Sorry, Hank, too close to home. Don’t worry, I’ve already made arrangements. They’ll be in good hands."

"I have no choice in the matter, do I?"

"None, my friend." Richard picked up his briefcase, set it on the desk, opened it and tucked the paperwork inside. "I’ll contact Sandy Whitley and make arrangements to have the girls dropped off here this afternoon. You’ll have a chance to say good-bye before they have to go. I’d recommend giving a spare key to one of the girls so they can swing by the house today and pack some bags."

Hank’s nod was barely perceptible.

He looks as dazed as he did during Elly’s funeral. I can’t blame him. Those girls mean everything to him. If we lose this custody battle, a good man will be destroyed. "I’m sorry, Hank, I argued against this."

The captain looked up then, the faraway look in his eyes fading. "I know, Richard, and I appreciate it. Just, please, if I’m on a run, don’t let the girls be taken before I have a chance to get back and say good-bye."

"I promise, Hank."

*~*~*~*~*

Just as Hank had figured, the station was called out on a run shortly before the twins arrived. When they returned, they found Chief McConnike standing by the day room door. The girls were beside him. The twins sported matching worried expressions on their faces.

Hank quickly shucked his turnout coat and tossed it back onto his seat in the cab. The rest of the crew followed more slowly. They knew what was happening and, though they didn’t want to be in the way, they wanted to be close enough to support their captain. None of them understood why Elly’s parents were forcing the issue of the girls’ custody. In their opinion, they all thought Cap was a first-rate father.

"Thanks, Chief, for bringing them by," Hank told his superior.

"Not a problem, Hank. I figured they knew me more than your attorney and would feel more comfortable coming with me. I must admit, I was somewhat surprised at his choice of foster home, but she volunteered," McConnike gestured as Dixie McCall stepped from the kitchen.

"Dixie?" Hank was surprised, too. "You’re taking Tracy and Darcy?"

"If you want me to," Dixie replied. "The girls know me and trust me." She smiled at the twins. "We’ll get along just fine."

"I’m sure you will, but how did you--?"

"Richard Bartholomew is an old friend. He knows I’m certified as a foster parent. I haven’t fostered in awhile, but decided to help out."

"Thanks. It’ll make it easier on the girls."

"I’ve got to get going." McConnike held out his hand. "Good luck, Hank. I think they’re making a mistake, doing this."

"Thanks, Chief," Hank shook his superior’s hand.

"I’ll show myself out, Hank. You do what you have to here," the chief nodded towards the girls. He glanced at Dixie, then at Hank’s crew. "Miss McCall, boys."

Unable to hold back any longer, Tracy demanded, "Dad, what’s going on?"

"Yeah, Chief McConnike came to Sandy’s house and insisted we had to come here," Darcy added immediately after her sister’s statement.

Hank swallowed. He led his daughters over to the back of the engine and gently sat them down on the running board. The spot gave them a little privacy, but he knew his crew was still near-by. He didn’t mind. If he’d wanted complete privacy, he would have gone into his office. The fact was he needed their presence. It helped him get through the next several minutes without losing his mind. He knelt before his girls, not sure where to begin.

"What’s going on, Dad?" Tracy again.

"What’s wrong?" Darcy demanded.

"You two are going to be staying with Dixie for awhile. There’s somebody who doesn’t think I can take care of you properly and they want to take you where you will be better cared for."

"Why?" Darcy asked, her voice quivering. "We don’t want to leave you, Dad! You’re all we have! Why are you making us go away?"

Hank reached out and laid a comforting hand on the younger twin’s arm. "I’m not making you go away, honey! I don’t want to do this, but I have to! It’s only for a short while until I can get this thing cleared up!"

Tracy spoke up. "It’s Grandma, isn’t it? She wants to take us away from you!" Before Hank could answer, she accused, "She never did like you and now she wants us to live with her and Grandpa! How could she do that? I hate her for it!"

"Don’t hate her, Sport." The captain drew his tomboy daughter closer to him. Darcy automatically took up position on the other side of her father. "She loves you very much. She’s only doing what she thinks is best for you two."

"What’s best for us are you! They can’t take us away from you if we don’t want to go, can they?"

"I’m afraid so, Sport. If the judge thinks Grandma and Grandpa can take better care of you than I can, then that’s where you’ll go."

"No!" Near tears, Darcy threw herself at her father. "Who’s going to take care of you if we’re not here?"

"Yeah, you need us, Dad!"

Despite the seriousness of the situation, Hank smiled through the haziness that threatened to block his vision. That’s my girls! More worried about how I’m going to get by without them! "I’ll be all right. You’ll see." He pulled Darcy back and gazed at both of them now standing side-by-side. "Now, I want you two to be good for Dixie, all right?"

"You always say that!" Tracy groaned.

"And I always mean it." He thumped the bill of the baseball cap on Tracy’s head down over her eyes. "The Dodgers can whoop the Cubs any day, Sport!"

"Aww, Dad!" she complained as she straightened the hat. A strange look crossed her face; then she was in his embrace a second later. "I don’t want to go. I love you, Dad."

Not to be outdone, Darcy once again threw herself at Hank, nearly bowling him backward onto his butt. "I love you, too, Dad!"

Been awhile since I had stereo hugs! He thought inanely, but he relished the moment. Who knew when it would happen again or if he’d be allowed to see them after the hearing if he lost? He closed his eyes and hugged them both to him tightly. Tears crept between his lids. Please, don’t let me lose them too! He prayed. "I love you both very much. I always will, no matter what happens. Don’t you ever forget that?!"

"We won’t," they chorused over his shoulders.

After a long moment, Hank finally pushed them back gently. He could see tears streaking their cheeks. He gently rubbed the tears away. "Okay, you’d better go with Dixie. She has to run you by the house to pick up clothes and stuff you’ll need."

They nodded, though they didn’t move. He smiled reassuringly. "Go."

Before they could walk away, the tones sounded. Aw, damn it! Why did it have to happen now?! He growled silently. He quickly ushered them to Dixie’s side then passed the spare house key to her. "Here’s the house key. Thanks, Dixie, for taking care of them for me."

"Any time, Hank," she assured.

"I’ve got the acknowledgement, Cap!" Roy called, circling around the front of the squad as the dispatcher announced the entire station to a structure fire.

Hank swiftly planted kisses on each twin’s cheek with a muttered "Love you" before he rushed to his side of the cab and climbed in. Though the blaring of the air horn usually gave him a rush, this time it sounded mournful to Hank’s ears. He glanced back, through the glass partition. The rest of the engine blocked any view he might have glimpsed of his daughters. He did see Marco waving. Thanks, pal. Then Hank had to direct his gaze forward and focus his concentration on their assignment.

*~*~*~*~*

The hearing was not going well. The Campbells’ attorney definitely earned the big bucks he charged for his services. Judge Taylor gave the Chicago lawyer plenty of leeway, despite Richard’s repeated objections throughout the hearing. Hank was thankful he hadn’t allowed the twins to be involved in this. They would have thought their father was a regular Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Elio had severely questioned the ‘excuse’ of Hank’s sudden changes in behavior being the result of a drug given him. When Dr. Brackett and Dr. Early were forced to testify that no traces of any known drug where found in the captain’s bloodstream, Elio practically accused Hank of making up the story to avoid retribution for his actions. There was no mention of Kate and if Elio knew anything about her, he didn’t bother bringing it up in the courtroom.

Mike Stoker sported purple and yellow bruising from his injured eye and soon found that it was the perfect fodder for the well-trained lawyer out to destroy Captain Stanley’s fine reputation. Shortly after Mike was called to the stand, Craig Elio launched into his attack.

"That’s quite a shiner you have there, Mr. Stoker." Elio’s voice was conversational, as if he was just chatting with the engineer at a social event and not raking him over the coals on the stand.

Warily, Mike answered with a shrug. "I guess so."

"Where did you acquire a black eye?"

"On the job." Certainly not a lie since he had been at work when he’d received it.

"’On the job’?" Elio repeated. "But you told the court you stay by the engine. How would you get such an injury just standing by the engine and watching your colleagues fight a fire?"

Mike bristled at what Elio implied, but bit his tongue to refrain from a sarcastic remark. He answered tightly, "I don’t just stand by the engine and let my crewmates do all the work when there’s a fire. I have my own duties."

Elio appeared not to have heard Mike’s comments. "Again I ask, how could you get a black eye being the engineer?"

"I was hit."

"By?" Elio hedged. Seeing Mike hesitate, he stated, "I remind you that you are under oath, Mr. Stoker. Now, answer the question."

"Captain Stanley."

Elio affected an attitude of surprise. "Your captain struck you? I didn’t realize the fire department allowed such brutal disciplinary procedures."

"It doesn’t."

"I see. So how is it Captain Stanley came to hit you, Mr. Stoker?"

Mike looked at Hank. The engineer’s eyes were apologetic. Hank shook his head. Not your fault, pal, the motion said, but Mike still felt like he’d betrayed his superior.

"He thought he was defending himself."

"’Defending himself’? Oh, yes, I suppose this was during that so-called drug-induced hallucination he had, right?" Elio supplied. "The same drug that Drs. Brackett and Early could find no trace of in his system, right? Come, Mr. Stoker, you can come up with a better excuse than that! Stop trying to protect the man who physically abused you!"

"Objection!" Richard shouted. "Hearsay."

The judge nodded. "Sustained. Watch yourself, Mr. Elio."

"Your honor, I’m just trying to show the court that if Hank Stanley got angry enough to do this" he gestured to Mike’s eye "to one of his crew, a full-grown man, what’s to stop him from doing the same to his daughters? Are we willing to take the chance that he might lose his temper and hurt one of my clients’ granddaughters? If he went crazy enough to beat up his crew, can we be sure he might not try something just as dangerous to his own daughters, maybe even sexually abuse them?"

"You son of a bitch!" Hank growled, jumping to his feet. "You bastard, how dare you suggest I’d hurt my daughters in any way?" He flew around the table where he had been seated and snagged Elio by the jacket sleeve. Richard and the bailiff quickly grabbed his arm when he raised his hand in a fist. Mike bolted from the stand and forced him to release his hold on the Chicago lawyer. The rest of Hank’s crew jumped the railing, grabbed their captain’s shoulders and eased him back to his seat. Several other members of the fire department also in the courtroom rose automatically from their seats to assist if necessary. Judge Taylor’s gavel pounded throughout the ruckus in an effort to restore order to the courtroom.

"Damn it, Hank!" Richard whispered hoarsely as he sat down next to his glowering client. "You can’t do things like that! No matter how angry he makes you! He pushed you deliberately!"

Elio stepped back from the enraged captain. He casually brushed his jacket sleeve where Hank had grabbed him. "I rest my case, Your Honor. Captain Stanley can’t control his temper. He’s a threat to Darcy and Tracy’s safety. I’m surprised he hasn’t hurt his daughters before this."

Judge Taylor regarded Hank for a moment. Fire still blazed in the depths of the captain’s eyes, but he had calmed down enough to allow his fellow firefighters to resume their seats. "You pull another stunt like that, Captain Stanley, and you’ll be spending the rest of this hearing behind bars, do I make myself clear?"

When Hank didn’t respond immediately, Richard gestured slightly with his hand. Answer the man, Hank.

"Yes, Your Honor," the captain said. "I apologize for my actions, Your Honor." The hell I do! Elio deserves a sound thrashing! Hank thought savagely, forcing himself to calm down. He wasn’t helping his daughters by losing his temper. Isn’t that what Elio was trying to prove, that he couldn’t be trusted not to lose his cool and hurt his girls? Damn it, I’m a straightforward kind of guy! This entire legal, courtroom garbage is hard to take! I just want to go home with my daughters and get on with my life!

Taylor smiled. "Good. Let’s take a fifteen minute recess to allow everybody to cool off." The gavel slammed down; Taylor quickly left the courtroom.

Hank followed everybody else outside. He looked at his attorney as his crew gathered around. "I blew it, didn’t I, Richard?"

"It’s all right, Hank. I think I would have been more surprised if you hadn’t reacted the way you did. Just don’t do it again, all right?" Richard clapped his client on the back. "Remember, Elio’s trying to get such a response from you. Don’t let him goad you, Hank."

Hank noticed his engineer, head bowed, sitting quietly on one of the courthouse steps. "Mike? You okay, pal?"

Mike raised his head and looked at his captain sadly. "I’m sorry, Cap. He had me pinned and I couldn’t find a way out. I really made you look bad. I’m sorry."

"Not your fault, Mike. For goodness sake, I don’t want you to perjure yourself trying to protect me." He glanced at those gathered in the small group. "Any of you!"

"I’m afraid Elio’s just going to keep coming back to the past few weeks, Hank," Richard informed. "He’ll pounce on each of your crew. I doubt he’s through with Mike yet."

Mike did not look pleased with that announcement.

"Can I plead amnesia?" Chet wanted to know.

Hank smiled. "He’d probably blame that on me, too, Chet."

"But I’ve got a chance to cross-examine each of you. I’ll do my best to give you all a chance to have your say." Richard looked at his client. "I’ve got witnesses coming that don’t know about the past month, Hank. Do you know I had so many firefighters asking to come and testify as character witnesses on your behalf, I had to weed ‘em out?"

"You’re kidding!"

"Believe it, Cap!" Roy stated. "I think some of the guys from other stations were talking about coming by this afternoon just to sit in the courtroom to show support! They want to get the message across that if you mess with one of us, you mess with all of us."

"That’s terrific! Maybe there’s a chance after all." Hank was pleased to hear his firefighting brothers would do such a thing for him and the twins. I just hope it’s not all for naught.

*~*~*~*~*

Hank sat nervously as Judge Taylor settled himself behind the bench. It was the final morning of the hearing. He and the Campbells had been the final witnesses called to the stand to give their testimonies. The courtroom was empty except for the principal players. Hank’s crew was working; the captain had asked everybody else to steer clear of the courtroom that day. He’d been appreciative of their support the past few days, but wanted to face the judge’s decision alone.

"I’ve carefully reviewed all the evidence and testimonies," the judge stated without preamble. "In my opinion, especially in view of recent events, the court has decided to turn custody of Darcy and Tracy Stanley over to their grandparents, Alan and Ethel Campbell."

Stunned, Hank sat back in his chair. I’ve lost them! I’ve lost my girls! Oh, Elly, what am I going to do now? So shocked was he that the captain almost didn’t catch Elio’s request.

"Your Honor, in light of Captain Stanley’s recent mental state, I ask that the court deny any visitation rights at this time."

"No," Hank started softly, but Richard’s hand on his arm stopped him.

Richard was on his feet an instant later. "Your Honor, nothing has been proven that my client even has any kind of ‘mental problems,’ as my colleague likes to call it. Keeping Captain Stanley from his girls is hardly warranted."

"I don’t agree with you, Mr. Bartholomew," the judge answered. "Captain Stanley’s crew may accept certain behaviors from him, but that’s the fire department’s business. I have no jurisdiction over their rulings. However, in this I do have say in what happens. I cannot take the chance Captain Stanley may do something to his daughters. Mr. Elio’s suggestion will be included in the ruling."

Taylor slammed the gavel down, thus ending the hearing.

Hank couldn’t bring himself to stand. He was too dazed at what had just happened. Less than a week after having his girls return home to him, they were going to be heading back to Chicago. Permanently, with no chance of his ever seeing them again. He vaguely became aware of Elio standing by his seat.

"So where’s this foster parent of yours, Mr. Bartholomew?"

"She’s at Captain Stanley’s station, with Darcy and Tracy."

"Good, then I’ll head on over and pick them up for my clients before heading for the airport."

"My client has the right to be there," Richard stated.

"By all means, let him say farewell to his darling daughters for the final time." With that sarcastic remark, Elio left with the Campbells. Hank didn’t see the sorrowful glance Alan gave him as he started down the aisle.

"I’m sorry, Hank," Richard said. "I thought we had a chance. I just can’t believe the court denied you visitation rights on top of everything else."

Hank sighed. "Not your fault, Richard. Thanks for trying." He stood slowly; his eyes were bleak, distant. "If you’ll excuse me, I’d better go. I don’t trust Elio to give me time to say good-bye to my girls."

"I understand, Hank." As Richard watched the captain leave the courtroom, he tossed a silent curse at his opposing attorney. Damn you, Elio. You’ve just torn apart a perfectly good family. And to you, Mr. and Mrs. Campbell. I hope you’re satisfied. You’ve just destroyed one of the best and most honest men it’s been my pleasure to know. All because he had the audacity to fall in love with your daughter and make her happy?

*~*~*~*~*

Tom Lombard met Hank coming in the back door of the apparatus bay. His fellow captain’s sullen expression told him all he needed to know. "Damn it, Hank, I can’t believe the judge had the balls to take your girls away from you," he snarled when Hank just told him simply, "I lost my girls, Tom."

"I didn’t have a chance, Tom," Hank explained sadly. "The judge had his mind made up before the thing even started. He just allowed us to go through the formalities." He swallowed the lump in his throat. "Excuse me, Tom, but I have to see my girls before Elly’s parents’ attorney takes them away."

"I wondered why he showed up," the other captain commented; then asked, "Surely you’ll be allowed to see them for visits?"

Hank could only shake his head. He walked away swiftly, not acknowledging the shocked look on Tom’s face. Hank walked into the day room to see his crew and Dixie with stunned looks on their faces. They all honestly believed that the good guys would win and I’d get my girls back. I’m sorry, guys, I blew it.

"Dad!" The twins ran over to Hank. They threw their arms around him. Hank gathered them into his embrace. Their tears nearly started him. He had to force his emotions back, knowing if he lost it now, he wouldn’t be able to let them go. "Don’t make us go away! We want to stay with you, Dad! Please don’t let them take us away!" Both girls pleaded simultaneously as they clung tightly to their father.

Hank bowed his head as he held tight to the twins. After a long moment, he finally pushed them back gently so he could see their faces. "You have to live with Grandma and Grandpa now. They love you both and only want what’s best for you."

"We told the judge what’s best for us is you!" Darcy sobbed.

Tracy nodded. "Yeah, we told him we didn’t want to go to Chicago! Somebody has to look out for you! How can we do that if we live so far away?"

Roy stepped forward. He could see how Hank was trying to make the situation easier for the two. I wish the judge could see this. He would have no doubt of Cap’s love for his daughters then! "Don’t worry about your dad," he promised, "we’ll take good care of him for you."

Hank gave the senior paramedic a grateful look. "Yeah, my crew will look out for me. I’ll be all right. You two just worry about behaving for your grandparents. They’ll give you everything you need."

"But you won’t be there!" Darcy cried.

"Can we wrap this up?" Elio demanded. "I’ve got to deliver these two to my clients. We’ve got a plane to catch."

Four firefighters and one registered nurse glared at the attorney. Johnny almost said something, but Mike laid a restraining hand on his arm. The engineer shook his head when the paramedic shot him a nasty look. Johnny’s expression softened; he nodded his understanding.

"You’ll be fine," Hank told his distraught daughters. "Just remember, Kitten, Sport, I’ll love you both always. Nothing will ever change that."

The twins echoed the sentiment. Hank gave them each one last hug and a kiss on the cheek before he looked at Elio and nodded silently.

"’Bout time!" the attorney groused. "Let’s go!" He ushered Tracy and Darcy quickly towards the door. Tom Lombard, who had been standing in the doorway, had to backpedal to get out of the way.

Elio paused before stepping completely into the apparatus room. "By the way, Captain Stanley, did your wife ever tell you about the up-and-coming attorney she jilted to marry you?"

"What? What’s that have to do with any of this?"

Elio’s expression hardened. "I was Ellen’s steady boyfriend before she decided she would rather be the wife of a hose jockey," he answered in contempt, practically spitting out the last two words. "You took away the woman I loved, Captain. It’s been a pleasure taking her daughters away from you." Elio smirked at the grief-stricken firefighter.

The twins gave their father one last forlorn look before they were shepherded out of the room and out of sight. Hank watched them leave then bowed his head.

Hank’s crew watched silently. They noticed the slump of their captain’s tall frame. They didn’t think it possible, but it had happened: Captain Stanley stood before them a broken man. What countless fires, accidents and civilian deaths couldn’t achieve, what even the death of his wife had not been able to accomplish, now became reality with the loss of his daughters?

Hank finally raised his head; he was still managing to keep his sorrow contained. His crewmen stood regarding him, the distress in their eyes almost as overwhelming as his own. But Hank could also see the support in the five pairs of eyes. Once again, they were prepared to stand by him through the rough spots in his life. Only this time, Hank wasn’t sure if it would be enough. Nothing, not even life in the fire service, mattered to him anymore.

"Cap," Marco began hesitantly, as if afraid to speak. "Cap, we’re sorry. We honestly thought you would win. The twins couldn’t get a better parent than you."

"Yeah, we blew it," Chet remarked. "We’re sorry."

Hank shook his head. "It wasn’t your fault. You guys did your best; nobody could have better advocates or friends. I appreciate what you did." He looked at Dixie. "Dixie, thank you so much for taking care of them during this mess. I hope they weren’t a problem."

"Never, Hank," the nurse answered reassuringly. She gave him a sympathetic look. "We all thought you’d be taking them home now."

Hank nodded. He glanced at his fellow captain. "Tom, can I use the phone in your office? I told Sandy I’d let her know what the verdict was."

"It’s your office, too, Hank," Tom remarked; then nodded. "Feel free."

"Thanks."

Hank resolutely made his way to the office. He sat down behind the desk and stared at the phone. After a long moment, he picked up the receiver. He stared at it for a long time, the soft ticking of the clock the only sound in the office. Slowly, Hank returned the receiver to its cradle. He scrubbed his hands across his face. He leaned forward in the chair, then buried his face in his hands and wept. How am I supposed to get by without Darcy and Tracy? They were all I had! I can’t believe Elio talked the judge into not even allowing me visitation rights. They’re my daughters, damn it!

"Cap?"

Hank straightened at the sound of his engineer’s voice. He automatically wiped his eyes before raising his head to regard Stoker. Not trusting his voice, he gestured for Mike to enter.

Mike didn’t enter the office; however, he stated, "You’re going to want to come out here, Cap. Dr. Brackett and Dr. Early are here and they have some news you’re going to want to hear."

Brow furrowed, Hank got to his feet and followed Mike into the apparatus room. There, next to the squad, near the radio bay, he found his crew questioning the two emergency room physicians. Roy glanced up as his captain approached. "Cap, they found traces of a drug in your system!"

"What?" Hank regarded the two doctors.

"I’d almost forgotten I’d requested the test," Joe admitted. "It takes several days for the results to become conclusive. It’s a very rare, hard to find narcotic and it requires a very specific test to pick up on it. The test came back positive for it just this morning."

"Too late," Hank shook his head. "The judge has already ruled against me."

"We know," the older physician nodded. "We already talked to your attorney."

"It’s not necessarily too late," Kel Brackett corrected. "This drug causes all the symptoms you experienced over the past few weeks. That confirms the suspicions that you were drugged and it was the drug, not any mental problem, that caused your change in behavior and caused you to attack your crew."

"It was the testimony that you were apparently losing your mind that was the crux for the judge to turn your daughters over to their grandparents," Joe concluded. "This changes all that."

Tom grinned. "Get your attorney to request another hearing, Hank. Based on this evidence, they’ll have to allow another one!"

"Elio will just claim I was taking the stuff myself," the lanky captain rationalized, afraid to get his hopes up.

"Not if I agree to take the stand."

Hank turned. Kate stood by the office door. She quickly approached the men, gave Dixie a quick smile.

"Hank, why didn’t you call me? I would have come to testify on your behalf!"

"I didn’t want you to get into trouble."

Kate threw up her hands in frustration. "Why are all men so damned stubborn?! You twit," she scolded, her voice softer, "I don’t care if I get into trouble. The important thing is you keeping custody of your girls! It’s a good thing Dixie knows how to think straight!"

Dixie smiled when all the men turned to look at her. "Good thing is right, Kate."

Kate looked at the tall captain who had stolen her heart. "You didn’t tell me Cal had gotten away with what he did to you, too! Hank, quit being so damn chivalrous and let me do this for you! It’s my choice. You love Darcy and Tracy too much to let them go like this!"

Joe broke into the conversation. "She’s right, Hank. Your attorney’s already called Van Nuys Airport to hold your in-laws, your daughters and Mr. Elio at the airport. Why don’t you get over there yourself and get your twins back!"

"Why are we wasting time standing here talking about it?" Mike stated. "We’ll take Big Red." His eyes flashed as he grinned. "I dare anybody to get in the way!"

"I’ll call the engine in as out of service for the next hour," Tom told them. "Go!"

Hank grinned as he clapped Mike on the shoulder. Captain and engineer raced for the pumper. Mike started the engine; he flipped on the lights and sirens as he pulled the big rig out of the station. The air horn blared in warning. They were headed down the street when Hank looked over at his crewman.

"We’re in big trouble if Headquarters ever gets wind of this."

Mike risked a glance at his dark-haired superior. He grinned. "What’s a little misadventure between friends?"

Hank returned the smile. He returned his gaze to the view in front of them. "Get stoked, Stoker!"

Mike blasted the air horn in response.

*~*~*~*~*

The Stanley twins sat dejectedly in the gate lounge in Van Nuys Airport. They were awaiting the boarding call for the flight to take them to San Francisco, then on to Chicago. Each had a carry-on bag filled with a couple days’ worth of clothes and some personal items. Their grandmother, seated on the other end of the row of seats with their grandfather and the lawyer, had assured them she would take them shopping for new clothes. The lawyer, Mr. Elio, would see to it all their things would be packed up and shipped to them from their "former home," as he put it.

Both girls already missed their father terribly. They had been in as much shock as their "uncles" and Dixie when Elio had shown up at the station with the news that they had to go with their grandparents to live.

"I can’t believe we have to live with Grandma and Grandpa," Tracy said sadly.

"Why do they think we’d be better off with them instead of Dad?" Darcy asked her twin.

"I don’t know. Dad hasn’t done anything wrong. He loves us, Darcy. He didn’t want us to go."

"I thought he was going to start cryin’, too."

Tracy nodded. "But he’s The Dad. You know he won’t cry in front of us."

"He did at Mom’s funeral," Darcy pointed out.

"That was different!" the tomboy twin reasoned. She sat quietly for a moment; then said, "How will he get along without us?"

Before her sister could answer, Tracy held up her hand to keep her silent. She cocked her head; then gestured slightly with her head in their grandparents’ direction. She saw Darcy nod in understanding. They could hear the adults talking and decided to listen in on the conversation.

"I can’t believe you denied Hank the right to see his daughters!" Alan spoke to Elio incredulously. "We never wanted that!"

"Alan," Elio stated rationally, "it was the only way. Do you think if Henry Stanley had the chance to run off with the girls, he won’t take it? You’d find out weeks later, when it was time for them to return to you. Too late to do anything about it."

"Hank wouldn’t do such a thing! He turned them over to you, didn’t he?"

"He didn’t have a choice."

"Alan," Ethel added, "we’re only doing what’s right for the twins."

"Are we?" Alan wanted to know. "They already lost their mother, so us taking them away from their father is doing what’s right for them? You know perfectly well how close they are to Hank!" He paused; then continued as a thought struck him. "Is this your way of getting back at Hank for falling in love with our only child? For his taking Ellen away from you to live in Los Angeles instead of moving closer to Chicago?"

"Henry Stanley is the reason Ellen was killed!" Ethel hissed. "If he hadn’t taken her away from us, she would still be alive! Besides, a fire station is no place for two girls to grow up! They need a stable environment, especially now that they’re going to be teenagers in a month!"

"I still say we’re making a mistake taking the twins away from Hank!"

Darcy grabbed Tracy’s shoulder and pulled her close so she could whisper in her identical twin’s ear. "They aren’t going to allow Dad to see us anymore!"

"I heard!" Tracy answered softly.

"What can we do?"

Tracy thought a moment; then suggested, "Follow my lead."

Darcy nodded. When her sister stood up, she did the same. They left their carry-on bags beside their seats and walked over to the adults. The Campbells and Elio stopped speaking when they approached.

"Um, Darcy and I have to use the bathroom," Tracy announced.

"Yeah," the other agreed with a nod.

Ethel looked around. "It’s over there." She pointed to the restroom sign.

"Let’s go," Tracy tugged on her twin’s arm. As they approached the bathroom, she looked behind her. The adults had turned back to their conversation. She nodded as she and Darcy stepped into the restroom and prepared to tell her double her plan.

*~*~*~*~*

Station 51’s A-shift captain and engineer ignored the incredulous stares they received when Mike stopped the big red engine, sans siren; in the unloading zone of the airline Hank’s in-laws had planned to take. Hank dropped to the ground and entered the building at a run. He quickly found out from which gate their flight was to take off. A short run later and he found the proper area. Elly’s parents were there, along with Elio, and airport security.

"Hank!" Alan called in surprise when his son-in-law approached. "What are you doing here?"

"We got the call from Bartholomew, Stanley," Elio sneered. "Didn’t trust us to stick around long enough for you to demand a second hearing?"

"Actually, no, I didn’t trust you," Hank retorted. He looked around. "Where are the girls?"

"We don’t know, Hank," Alan answered.

The captain’s attention shot to his father-in-law. "What?"

"We were talking and they asked to use the restroom," Campbell explained. "We haven’t seen them since. That was about an hour ago."

"We can’t find them! They ran away!" Ethel moaned, wringing her hands.

"Excuse me, sir," asked one of the security guards, "What connection do you have to the missing girls?"

"They’re my daughters," Hank answered, fighting the growing panic inside him. He looked at his in-laws. "Are you sure they’ve run away? They aren’t in the airport? Maybe they wandered off?"

Alan shook his head. "No, Hank, they’re gone. Somebody from the airline saw them earlier; they were heading for the exit. You have to admit, identical twins do sort-of stand out."

Hank was thinking fast, trying to figure out where his missing twins would have run. There were two places he could think of off-hand where they would go. He turned to his father-in-law. "I think I know where they’ve gone. I’ll find them, don’t worry."

"Wait a minute!" Elio stepped in front of the captain. "I don’t trust you, Stanley! What’s to say you won’t find them and then run?"

Hank narrowed his eyes in a menacing gaze. "Elio, just because I have to put up with this kind of crap from civilians all the time doesn’t mean I have to put up with it from you. Out of my way or I’ll move you myself!"

"Mr. Elio, I suggest you move it," Alan replied calmly, "Or I’ll just have to let my son-in-law carry out his promise." When Hank glanced at him, he gave the captain a wink.

Elio flicked his gaze from the tall captain to his client and back. Deciding his life was most likely in peril if he hesitated longer, he wisely stepped aside.

Hank said nothing as he pushed past the lawyer and raced out of the terminal. He found Mike still waiting in the engine. He opened the door and got into the cab. "My house, Mike. Non-Code R."

"You got it, Cap," the engineer responded, not questioning the reasons why they were heading there. He checked the road before pulling out. Though he didn’t activate the sirens, the flashing lights seemed enough to get most of the traffic out of their way.

Hank picked up the mike. "LA, this is Engine 51. Have Station 51 switch over to Frequency 2."

"10-4, Engine 51," answered the dispatcher.

Hank clicked the radio over to another channel. A moment later, he heard Tom Lombard’s voice. "Engine 51, Station 51. Hank, what’s up?"

"Tom, the twins have run away. I’m thinking they’re either on their way home or the station. Stoker and I are heading over to my place. If they show up there, I want you to hold them there then contact me."

"I’ll lock ‘em in the office, Hank. Good luck."

"10-4. Stanley, out." Hank replaced the mike to its cradle and switched the radio back to its normal channel. He looked at Stoker. "I’m going to kick their butts, Mike."

"No, you won’t, Cap. You’ll hug them."

Hank nodded. "You’re right, I will hug them." Staring out the windshield, he promised, "Then I’ll kick their butts!"

*~*~*~*~*

Mike pulled Big Red over to the curb in front of the captain’s house. Hank was out of the cab even before Mike got the rig to a complete stop. Sandy and Darcy came running out of Sandy’s house. Hank grabbed his daughter in a quick hug before giving his neighbor his attention.

"I called the police, Hank!" Sandy, a tall brunette in her early forties, told him.

Darcy pulled back and looked at her father. "He took Tracy, Dad! I couldn’t stop him!"

Hank fought down the rising panic that swelled in his heart. "Who took Tracy? What’s going on?"

"Captain Adams! He said he was going to take us to you, but something didn’t feel right," Darcy explained rapidly. Mike ran up to the group as she spoke. "You always told us to trust our little voice, even if the person who makes us uncomfortable is somebody we know. When he saw we weren’t going to go with him, he grabbed Tracy. He tried to grab me, too, but I ran away. I couldn’t stop him, Dad!" she repeated, tears running down her face.

"You did the right thing, sweetheart," Hank assured.

"But Tracy is in trouble!"

"We’ll find her. She’ll be all right." I hope I’m not lying!

A siren approached, announcing the arrival of a police squad car. Vince Howard jumped out of the black-and-white and trotted over to the group. He nodded at the captain. "Hank. I thought I recognized the neighborhood." He looked at Sandy as he pulled out his notebook. "You called about a kidnapping, ma’am?"

"Yes, one of Hank’s daughters."

Vince returned his attention to Hank. The captain took a deep breath. "Darcy knows more about this than I do, Vince. You know about the custody hearing."

Vince nodded. "Yes."

"Well, to make a long story short, I lost custody. Tracy and Darcy—"

"We ran away," Darcy interrupted. She straightened to her full height as she gave her attention to Vince; however, she never left her father’s side. He put a comforting arm around her shoulders. "We heard Grandpa and Grandma talking at the airport. They said Dad wouldn’t be allowed to see us anymore." She looked up at her father. "We didn’t plan to run away, but we didn’t want not to see you anymore!"

"It’s okay, we’ll worry about that later," Hank assured.

"We came back here. While we were sitting on the front porch step, Captain Adams pulled up in his car. He said he could take us to Dad, but something didn’t feel right. When we tried to get away, he grabbed Tracy. I ran and hid until Sandy came home." She pointed to her neighbor. "She called the police!"

Vince jotted some notes in his book then looked at Sandy. "And you are?"

"Sandy Whitley. I called as soon as Darcy told me what happened."

"Did you see anything?"

Sandy shook her head. "No, I didn’t."

"I saw!" Darcy stated. "Captain Adams drove a green Mustang. The license plate number is Victor-Bravo-Seven-Two-Oh-One."

At Mike’s raised eyebrow, Hank said, "She and Tracy go to school with Vince’s kids. What did you expect?" He gave Darcy a shoulder squeeze. "Very good, Darcy!"

"Excellent," Vince agreed. "I’ll get an APB out on the car right away. One question, Hank. Do you know of any reason Captain Adams would be after your daughters?"

Hank glanced at Mike. "He’s after my job, Vince. I didn’t think he’d target my daughters. I didn’t think to tell them what was going on."

"Dad didn’t think we’d run away," Darcy said.

"That, too."

Vince nodded before going back to his squad to call in the APB.

"I’m sorry, Dad. Really." Darcy gripped her left forearm with her right hand. "We knew we did wrong."

Hank’s attention was on his daughter’s right hand. "What’s wrong, Kitten?"

"My arm hurts." She sniffed. "He’s hurting Tracy."

Mike gave his superior a questioning look. "She knows something?"

The captain nodded, a worried expression on his face. "It’s called the twin syndrome. When one gets hurt, the other feels the pain, too. I’ve gotten used to it over the years." Adams, you hurt Tracy and I’ll have your head! That’s a promise!

"Hank," Sandy said, "do you want me to watch Darcy?"

"No!" Darcy hollered, wrapping her arms around her father, burying her face in his uniform shirt. "Don’t go!"

Hank put his arm around her, but his attention was on Sandy. "No, Sandy, but thanks. I’ll keep her with me or with my crew at the station. I’ll feel better knowing she’s very well protected. I do appreciate your offer."

"I understand. If I can do anything else, don’t hesitate to let me know or have the police contact me. I just wish I had been home when they got here."

"It’s not your fault, Sandy. Thanks for all your help."

"No problem." She reached out and touched Darcy’s hair. "They’ll find Tracy, Darcy. I know they will."

Darcy unburied her head from Hank’s front. She looked up at her kind neighbor. "Thank you, Sandy."

"Any time, Darcy."

Sandy left. Hank gently disengaged himself from his daughter’s tight embrace, then started walking towards the engine. He looked at his engineer, who was matching his long strides. "Mike, I want you to get the engine back to the station. Will you take Darcy with you?"

Mike nodded. "You coming?"

"No, I think I’ll hitch a ride with Vince. I need to talk to him about a couple of things." He looked at his daughter. "Darcy, I want you to go back to the station with Mike. Captain Lombard and the rest of the guys will watch over you, all right?"

"Do I have to go?"

"Yes," the captain insisted. "Don’t worry, the guys will take good care of you." He opened the door to his side of the cab.

"Hey, Darce," Mike remarked, "you can ride where your father usually sits." He lowered his voice conspiratorially, though it was deliberately loud enough for Hank to hear every word. "I’ll even let you wear his helmet when we get out of his sight."

Darcy glanced at her father, who was trying to act like he wasn’t overhearing the conversation. She wasn’t fooled, but decided to play along. "Will you blast the air horn, too?" she asked in a harsh whisper.

"Yep."

"Can I back the engine into the station?"

"Ah, you better let me handle that."

"Oh, okay." She turned and hugged her father. "Be careful, Dad."

"I will, Kitten."

Darcy hopped onto the running board then scrambled into the high seat. Hank closed the door. He turned to his engineer. "Thanks, Mike. I’ll be in touch as soon as I can. It’s the first time either twin’s been away from the other for a long length of time. They even got tonsillitis at the same time!"

"Double your pleasure, double your fun," the engineer commented. "Don’t worry, Cap, we’ll watch over her. We’ll even take her on any runs with us."

"She’d love that if she wasn’t so worried about Tracy."

Mike nodded sagely, then rounded the front of the engine to climb into his side of the cab. He shut down the emergency lights and pulled the huge rig onto the main road. Darcy waved from the window. Hank started back towards Vince’s car. He’d only gone a few steps when he heard the air horn sound.

Hank shook his head. I know I argued the point with you, Elly, but I think you were right. One or both of those two will end up in the Fire Academy. He sobered. I hope Tracy lives long enough to consider the possibility.

*~*~*~*~*

Hank entered the fire station after being dropped off by Vince. He stepped into the day room to find Captain Lombard and most of his crew hanging around the kitchen table. They were sitting or standing, discussing mundane things. Darcy sat on the couch with Henry and Johnny. Hank almost smiled as he remembered the huge crush this twin had on the paramedic.

"Anything, Cap?" Marco queried, setting down his mug of coffee.

Hank shook his head. "Too early. They’ve got an APB out on Captain Adams’ car. I guess we wait."

"I hate waiting!" Darcy muttered darkly. Henry whined as he laid his head on the girl’s lap. She automatically stroked his long ears.

"Yeah, me, too, honey," agreed Hank. He walked over to the counter, picked up a clean mug, began to fill it with coffee; and then replaced the coffeepot on the hotplate. He slammed the half-filled mug onto the countertop. Hot liquid sloshed over the top. "Damn it!" he growled, jerking his hand away.

Tom moved to his fellow captain’s side. "You all right, Hank?"

"I’ve been better," Hank admitted. He glanced over his shoulder at his daughter, who quickly looked away when he caught her staring wide-eyed at him. As he rinsed his burned hand under the faucet, he murmured, "All I want to do is find Tracy."

"I know," Tom answered softly, for his friend’s ears only. "We all do." In a more conversational tone of voice, he added, "By the way, Kate said she’d see you later."

"I think you’re in for it, Cap," Chet supplied. "I think she’s going to ream you good for not letting her testify."

"Wouldn’t be less than I deserve," Hank admitted, wiping off his hands.

The phone rang. Marco was closest to it, so he picked up the receiver. "Station 51, Firefighter Lopez speaking… yes, he’s here, hold on." He covered the mouthpiece with his hand as he held out the receiver to Hank. "Cap, it’s for you." Marco’s voice lowered slightly. "It’s Captain Adams."

Darcy’s head snapped up when she heard the name. As she started to get off the couch, Johnny’s hand shot out and stopped her. He shook his head when she looked at him strangely. "Sit, Darce."

Hank looked at Marco. "I’ll take it in the office."

Marco nodded. He put the line on hold before replacing the receiver.

Hank trotted into the office. He picked up the phone, quickly depressed the flashing button. "Hello?"

"Hello, Hank. I figured you would be there. I have something of yours."

"Yeah, Cal, I know you have Tracy. What is it you want?" Hank was working hard to keep the tone of his voice even and professional.

"I want you to suffer, Hank. I figure the best way to do that is to deprive you of something that means so much to you, even as you deprived me of somebody who meant a great deal to me."

Hank swallowed. "Listen, Cal, don’t hurt Tracy. She has nothing to do with this. I lost custody of my girls. You know that, don’t you? Isn’t that enough?"

"Oh, no, it’s not."

Station 51’s captain started to think furiously. "Cal, it’s me you want. I’ll trade you. My life is for Tracy’s. You can have your vengeance or whatever it is you want from me. How about it?"

Cal chuckled maliciously. "So predictable, Hank. I’ll take it, however. Your brat’s been a pain to handle."

Hank gripped the phone tighter. He had to force himself to keep his voice steady. "I want to talk to her."

"Sorry, she’s not available right now."

"How do I know she’s all right?"

"You don’t. Now, we do this my way. You’re going to meet me and meet me alone. I so much as suspect you might have a cop in the area and you’ll have one less twin to worry about. Got me?"

"I understand."

"Good. Now, meet me at the abandoned warehouse on Barr Street. You have ten minutes to get here, Hank. I suggest you don’t mess around."

The line clicked off. Hank hurriedly scribbled a note on a pad of paper. He raced out of the office and, circling around the front of the vehicles, headed for the locker room. Cal Adams hadn’t given him much time to get to the warehouse, so he didn’t have time to waste explaining things to his crew. He pulled his car keys from his pants pocket then hurried out to his car.

Hank fought to keep from speeding. With a minute to spare, he pulled into the parking lot of the warehouse. He spotted Cal’s green mustang, so he parked next to it. Hank jumped out of his car and over to the back, where the trunk stood open. A quick check inside revealed Tracy’s baseball hat. Fear shot through Hank when he spotted the blood on the cap.

He tightly gripped the hat as he turned, looking for any sign of the other captain. The side door to the warehouse was left ajar. He headed over there, carefully opened the door and entered. He no sooner stepped inside to a vast, but dimly lit, area when Cal’s voice greeted him.

"So nice of you to join us, Hank."

"I’m here," Hank hollered, unsure of where the voice had come. "Let Tracy go!"

"First, you climb those stairs to your right. Take ‘em up to the top."

Hank did as ordered. He kept searching as he climbed, hoping to spot the man who had kidnapped his daughter. When he reached the top of the metal staircase, he found himself on a narrow catwalk. He glanced over the railing. It was a long way down.

"Come forward."

Hank jerked his head in the direction of the voice, now in front of him. He walked slowly until he was approximately halfway across the walkway. There he saw Cal standing, a revolver in his hand, though it hung limply by his side. Tracy was seated at his feet, her wrists tied to the railing, a bandana wrapped around her mouth. Her eyes shone with fear and pain; Hank could see some blood on the side of her head.

"Let her go, Cal."

"You are so predictable, Hank." Cal reached down, grabbed Tracy’s right arm and pulled her roughly to her feet. He one-handedly undid the knots at her wrists. He pulled off the gag then shoved her towards her father.

Hank gently gathered her to him. He noticed the way she held her arm tightly against her. It looked like it was broken. He gave her a quick hug, asking, "Are you all right, Sport?"

Tracy fought back the tears. "I’m okay, Dad. Are we going now?"

"You are, honey. I have to stay."

"No, I won’t leave you, Dad!" Tracy protested.

"How sweet," Cal said sarcastically. "She wants to go down with you, Hank." He shrugged, bringing the gun into play. "I can arrange that."

Anger blazing in his brown eyes, Hank launched himself forward, grabbing Cal’s gun hand and forcing it upward. The shot went wild. Hank smashed the man’s wrist against the railing. Cal shouted in pain; however, he released his grip on the gun and it plummeted to the warehouse floor below.

"You bastard!" Adams snarled. He turned quickly, seizing his rival’s right wrist in a tight grip.

The move took Hank by surprise, giving Cal time to twist Hank’s arm up behind his back. Hank gritted his teeth as he fought against the strong hold. He dropped to one knee. The action made Cal flip over his back. In doing so, however, the lanky captain’s foot slipped over the edge of the walkway. Jerked by the sudden slip, Cal went over the edge. As he fell, he grabbed Hank’s arm and pulled his adversary over the side with him.

"Dad!" Tracy screamed as the two captains disappeared from sight. She raced to the side and looked over the railing. There was no sign of Captain Adams, but her father lay on his side on a catwalk the next level below her. He wasn’t moving. Tracy started to shake. "Dad!" she cried, tears flooding her eyes.

Stay calm, Trace! You have to help Dad! You can’t help him if you get all hysterical! Go! Get help! Tracy turned and sprinted back to the staircase. She clattered down the stairs, frantically trying to remember if there was a phone nearby.

Tracy ignored the ache that pounded in her head. She felt a little dizzy and her broken arm hurt. I have to help Dad! She chanted to herself in an attempt to ignore the pains that demanded her attention.

Unable to spot a phone, she practically flew out the side door where they had entered the warehouse. She stumbled on the doorframe and fell to the ground. Tears of frustration started down her cheeks. Lifting her head, she saw several police cars pull into the parking lot, lights flashing, but sirens silent. They squealed to a halt not far from Tracy.

Doors flew open quickly on the vehicles and police officers jumped out. One of them raced over to her. It was Vince. Tracy tried to get to her feet, but Vince eased her to the ground. "Easy, Tracy."

"No! Dad’s hurt! He’s in there!" She pointed to the warehouse door. "He fell off a walkway. He’s on another walkway, but he’s not moving! Help him!"

Vince glanced at another officer. "Get a squad, fire engine and ambulance here. I also need a first aid kit," he ordered before turning back to his friend’s daughter. "Is Captain Adams in there, too?"

"He fell with Dad, but I didn’t see him afterwards."

"Okay. Don’t worry, we’ll take care of it." Vince brushed her long hair away from the blood on the side of her head. "Where are you hurt?"

"My arm. My head." Tracy answered vaguely. Her attention was on the other officers going cautiously into the warehouse. Please, Dad, be okay! She couldn’t get the vision of her father lying so still on the catwalk out of her mind. Tears welled in her eyes again. We can’t lose you, too, Dad!

*~*~*~*~*

Darcy sat at the kitchen table. An untouched carton of milk and plate of cookies sat before her. Roy and Johnny sat on either side of her. Each of the paramedics were trying to get her to eat something, to get her mind off what was happening or, rather, the lack of information about what was going on in the search for her twin. Now, they exchanged glances at each other over the top of Darcy’s head.

Several minutes after Captain Stanley had taken the phone call, Tom had gone into the office to tell Hank, via a note, to try and lengthen the conversation. They had called the police to get the line traced. Tom found the office empty, a propped up notepad with a message, in Hank’s handwriting: Abandoned warehouse on Barr Street. Respond police non-Code R. Adams and Tracy.

Tom had gotten on the phone and told police about the note. He informed his temporary crew about the note, but didn’t show it to Darcy. She had guessed what had happened anyway when her father failed to reappear.

"Everything’s going to be all right, Darce," Roy said. "Why don’t you try to eat something?"

"You’ll feel better," Johnny encouraged.

"No, I won’t," Darcy answered solemnly. "My arm and head hurt. Captain Adams hurt Trace."

Chet and Marco walked into the day room. Chet reached around Darcy and snagged one of her cookies. He was disappointed when she didn’t playfully smack his hand away like she usually did. Brow furrowed, he dropped the cookie as he asked, "How do you know Tracy’s hurt? I’m sure she’s okay."

"I know!" she insisted. "We always feel each other’s pain!"

"It’s a twin thing," Marco supplied. "I have twin cousins that are the same way."

The tones sounded. Station 51. Assist police. Man down. The abandoned warehouse on Barr Street. Ambulance is responding. Time out 18:41.

Marco took charge of hustling Darcy out of the day room and into the apparatus bay. He led her to the engine cab, where Mike already had his door open. The engineer helped her climb into the cab and get settled in the middle seat. "Seatbelt," Mike stated simply as he turned on the lights. She strapped herself in and put on the extra helmet placed in the cab for her use.

When Tom climbed into his side, his eyes met the engineer’s. They both knew the address was the one Hank had left for the police. As Mike steered the engine onto the busy street, both men couldn’t help but wonder which captain constituted the ‘man down’ portion of the call. What of the other? And what of Tracy?

As they rolled towards their assignment, Tom looked at his friend’s daughter. "Darcy, when we get there, I want you to stay in the engine. Keep your helmet on, as well."

"Yes, sir. Will there be shooting?"

"Shooting?"

"Yeah. The dispatcher said ‘assist police.’"

Tom and Mike glanced at each other, then the captain looked back at the pre-teen. "You and your sister are joining the Fire Academy when?"

"Dad says we have to go to college first," she informed nonchalantly as she kept her gaze on the road before them.

Despite the direness of the situation, Mike couldn’t help chuckling. God help all firefighters the day you two graduate from the Academy! Maybe I’ll be ready for retirement by then.

*~*~*~*~*

As Mike pulled the engine around the police cars, Darcy pointed. "That’s Trace!" She started unbuckling her seatbelt.

"No," Tom stopped her. "You stay here!"

"But—"

"No ‘buts.’ Stay in the engine."

Tom didn’t wait for a response, but opened his door and dismounted quickly. The rest of the crew did the same and followed their temporary captain. Tom strode quickly up to Vince and Tracy. Roy and Johnny stepped up behind Tom. Setting aside the biophone and drug box, they knelt beside Hank’s daughter. She had dried tear tracks on her cheeks, but managed a small, brave smile.

Vince nodded to Tracy, who was lying on the ground with a blanket covering her. "Head injury and I think she’s got a broken arm."

Tom inclined his head towards the building. "Vince?"

"Calvin Adams is dead. He took a fall from a very high catwalk. Unfortunately, he took Hank down with him."

Flicking his gaze to Tracy, Tom found himself unable to ask the question concerning Hank’s mortality. Though they continued to talk to the twin in their care, Tom could tell the paramedics were listening to the conversation with extreme interest.

"Hank landed on another catwalk. He’s unconscious. I have a man there now keeping an eye on him. We didn’t want to move him. I don’t know what the extent of his injuries are."

Johnny stood. "I’ll go get Cap." He looked at his fellow firefighters. "Chet, Marco, I’ll need the backboard and stokes and your help. Mike, why don’t you bring Darcy over here to keep Tracy company? She looks worried." He nodded towards the Ward-LaFrance and the very concerned young lady, still sporting a fire helmet, looking out the open passenger window.

As the firefighters gathered the requested gear, Johnny pulled the trauma box from the squad. He trotted back to his partner’s side, put the box near him, opened it, and then extracted a couple things Roy might need for Tracy’s care. He closed up the kit, prepared to take it with him. He offered Hank’s daughter a smile. "Roy will take good care of you, Trace."

"I know. Dad says you guys are the best."

The tall paramedic grinned. "Oh, he does, does he?"

Tracy bit her lip. "Uncle Johnny, Dad isn’t going to die, is he?"

"Not if we can help it, Trace. You just worry about being good for Roy."

Roy hung the stethoscope from his neck. "She’s always good, aren’t you, sweetheart?" He smiled at his patient. He pulled the blood pressure cuff from the drug box. He briefly glanced up as Johnny, Marco, Chet and Tom entered the warehouse.

Darcy dropped beside her sister. She watched silently as Roy took Tracy’s blood pressure. "How is it?" she asked when he’d finished.

"It’s okay," Roy answered. He glanced at Mike. "Mike, can you get hold of Rampart for me?"

Tracy met her twin’s eyes. "Dad got hurt, Darce. I think he’s hurt bad!"

Darcy nodded gravely. She watched as Roy pulled down the blanket so he could assess the extent of her sister’s injuries, listened as information was exchanged with the hospital. She was aware of Vince’s presence and felt comforted by it. When Roy began an IV, he pressed Darcy into service by having her hold the IV bag up.

When the ambulances arrived, neither twin wanted to leave until they got word on how their father was doing. Roy assured them that as soon as anybody knew anything, the information would be passed on to them. Tracy was placed on a gurney and loaded into one of the ambulances. Darcy, still holding the IV bag, climbed in with her.

Roy glanced at the warehouse door. Stay with us, Cap. Your girls need you. Nodding to Mike, he turned and got into the back of the ambulance with his captain’s daughters. The equipment was left behind for Johnny’s use, but the senior paramedic carried one of the HTs with him. He settled himself in the seat next to Darcy, heard the ambulance doors being closed and Mike giving the driver the All Clear thumps; then they were on their way to Rampart Emergency.

*~*~*~*~*

Several firemen and a twelve-year-old girl waited in the doctors’ lounge for word on Hank Stanley’s condition. An exam on the captain by Kel Brackett had confirmed Johnny’s initial diagnosis of a broken left arm and heavy internal bleeding. He also believed the captain had sustained a linear skull fracture and a cerebral contusion.

The doctor suspected the abdominal hemorrhaging stemmed from a ruptured spleen. Johnny deduced the skull fracture happened when Hank had struck a partial blow to his head on the railing of the catwalk on which he’d landed. A few more inches in one direction and the captain would have sustained a broken neck and, in all probably, would have been killed instantly. As soon as they got him stabilized, Kel sent Hank in for immediate surgery to stop the bleeding in his abdomen. The broken arm would be set after the surgery.

Darcy, tears lining her cheeks, sat cuddled next to Johnny; Chet sat on her other side. Tom was seated in single chair. He nursed a rapidly cooling mug of coffee. Mike stood looking out the window while Marco, his arms crossed before him, leaned against the wall and stared at the floor.

The door opened to admit Joe Early, Roy and Tracy. Tracy had a bandage covering her head injury and her arm in a cast. She looked like she was trying to be strong about what was happening. Roy gently led her to an empty chair beside the captain.

"Have a seat, Tracy," he offered. "What something to drink?"

Tracy shook her head. "No, thank you."

"How’s Tracy, Dr. Early?" Tom queried as Roy took the seat on the other side of the twin.

"Broken arm, slight concussion. She’ll be all right. Just make sure she takes it easy for a few days."

"Have you heard anything yet?" Johnny asked.

Though the paramedic hadn’t been specific with his question, Joe knew what he was asking. "No, I’m sorry, I haven’t."

"Dad’s gonna die," Darcy cried.

"Yeah," Tracy agreed morosely, "first Mom, now Dad."

"Don’t talk like that!" Johnny admonished gently. "Your father’s strong. Besides," he gave Darcy’s shoulder a squeeze, "he has a lot to live for."

"It’ll be our fault if he dies," Darcy said.

"My fault," Tracy corrected. "It was my idea to run away."

"Both of you, stop it!" Chet ordered, not harshly. "This kind of talk does nobody any good, least of all, your father!"

"Chet’s right," Joe stated. "You have to think positive." He glanced at the group, eyeing each person. "All of you. I’ll see if I can find out anything."

"Thanks, Dr. Early," Tom nodded gratefully.

As Joe left, Dixie entered partway. She held open the door. "A couple more would like to join you." Alan and Ethel Campbell stepped into the room. They looked nervous to be there.

"Are you girls all right?" Ethel asked. She leaned over to hug Tracy from behind. "When I heard you’d been hurt, Tracy, I was so worried!"

Tracy broke away from the embrace and ran over to Marco. She put her arms around the firefighter and hugged him. Marco held her close when he felt the tears falling from her eyes. "It’s okay, Tracy," he soothed. He glanced up at Hank’s in-laws; there was a touch of hatred in his dark eyes. I know it’s foolish to place blame, but if they had left well enough alone and hadn’t tried to take the twins away from Captain Stanley, we wouldn’t be here now wondering if he’s even going to make it through surgery.

Mike turned from the window. His jaw tightened as he ground his teeth together to keep from making a very uncharacteristic comment. Johnny felt Darcy burrow closer to him. He glanced at Chet, who was working hard to keep his own mouth shut.

Tom and Roy got up from their seats and offered them to the Campbells. The couple gratefully accepted the chairs and the chivalrous attitude of the men. Ethel took in each face and, realizing she wouldn’t get any sympathy from them, turned back to the table.

Alan positioned his chair so he was facing his son-in-law’s friends and family. "Hank was always proud to talk about what a great crew he had. I can see it’s true."

"Thank you, Mr. Campbell," Roy said politely. The paramedic saw more than one of his crewmates bristle at the man’s use of the past tense. Nobody said anything, though Roy suspected the man wasn’t aware of what he was saying, exactly.

"Please, call me Alan."

Tracy raised her head from Marco’s chest. "I thought you were going home to Chicago?" she snarled, glaring at her grandparents.

"Hey, Tracy, not now," scolded the Latino firefighter.

"Yeah, Grandma," Darcy said angrily, "You always hated Dad. You didn’t even ask how he’s doing! Why are you here?"

"To wait for him to die so you can take us back with you?" Tracy stated.

"Enough, you two!" Mike admonished, startling everybody. "This isn’t the time nor the place! They only wanted what was best for you! Just stop it!"

There was silence a moment, then Darcy replied, "I’m sorry, Uncle Mike." Her voice was soft.

"It’s not to me you owe the apology, Darce."

Ethel gave the engineer a stern look. "Her name is Darcy, not Darce, young man. I suggest you use it." She looked at her husband; her voice was full of disdain as she continued, "Just like Henry! No respect for a proper name!"

"Hush, Ethel," Alan warned his wife. "These fine men already distrust us. You don’t have to add fuel to the fire!"

"Don’t talk to me like that, Alan! What kind of life is this for two girls? Daughters of a fireman!" Ethel harrumphed. "Henry works such odd hours, it’s a wonder he’s around at all for them! And this!" She gestured around the room. "Isn’t this what we feared would happen? He’s seriously injured and his daughters are left sitting, wondering if he’s going to live or die? It’s bad enough they already lost their mother!"

"Don’t do this, Ethel."

"We have custody of the girls now! We’ll see them raised properly! If Henry had cared at all, he wouldn’t have insisted putting his family through this. He would have found himself a better job and Ellen would still be alive."

Tracy broke away from Marco’s comforting hold. "Why do you hate Dad so much?" she demanded angrily, her full attention on her grandmother. "What did he ever do to you, except love Mom so much?" She shrugged off Marco’s attempts to calm her. "You don’t know what Mom’s death did to him! He tried to hide his pain from us, but we knew! When he thought we were asleep, he’d go outside on the patio and cry. He’d ask Mom how he was going to raise us by himself. He was always more concerned about us."

Darcy’s voice came from the couch. "He didn’t think he could do it alone. Don’t you see we have to be here for him? He needs us."

"Just like we need him," Tracy finished.

Ethel’s shocked gaze went from one twin to the other. That they had spoken to her so harshly surprised her. The words they’d spoken astounded her. She’d never realized her son-in-law had taken Ellen’s death so badly. She had been so wrapped up in her own grief; she hadn’t even paid attention to Henry’s. She had transferred her anger over the loss and blamed the man who had helped raise these two intelligent, beautiful girls. Instead of supporting him, she had set out to destroy him in the guise of helping her granddaughters.

Unable to think of anything to say, Ethel rose and quickly left the room. Alan stood. As he started to follow his wife out of the lounge, he paused in front of Tracy. He gently took her chin in his hand. "Well, it seems you two are growing up." He glanced at Darcy, then back. "And getting fairly outspoken, as well. I hope your father can handle you when you reach the rebellious years." He smiled gently.

"We didn’t mean to hurt Grandma," Darcy apologized.

"Nonsense!" Alan said. "She’s been asking for it! I never understood her problem with Hank. Maybe now she’ll come to her senses." He laughed. "How Hank kept from chewing her out, I’ll never know. All that training and working with the public, I guess! Excuse me." Alan nodded to the men before leaving the room.

Mike stood silently for a long moment. He glanced out the window; then started for the door.

"Where ya going, Uncle Mike?" Darcy asked.

"I have something I have to do," he answered. Quickly, he opened the door and exited the lounge. He strode down the hall to the public waiting area. There he found the Campbells seated by themselves. Alan was comforting his wife, who was crying. He approached slowly, not sure how his presence would be taken.

"Mr. and Mrs. Campbell?"

They looked up. Ethel gave him a look that told him that his presence was unwelcome, but Alan smiled reassuringly. He gestured to the seat across from them. "Mr. Stoker, isn’t it?"

The engineer nodded as he sat down. "Yes, Mike Stoker. I’m sorry to intrude, but I think there’s some things you should know about your son-in-law, things Darce and Trace" he saw Ethel stiffen at the nicknames, but continued, "don’t know. They were right that Captain Stanley took his wife’s, your daughter’s, death hard. He blamed himself, even though it was determined the accident was not his fault." The guys say I’m the quiet one. Wouldn’t they get a kick hearing me rattle on like this? Mike thought with an inward smile.

"Several weeks ago, just after the twins left to visit you, Captain Stanley confided in me that you wanted to take care of the girls permanently. Do you know he considered your offer? Not because he couldn’t handle taking care of the girls anymore, but because he was wondering if being raised by you would be better for them. For Darcy and Tracy, Mr. and Mrs. Campbell. He wanted to keep the girls with him. He loves them so much he would still give them up if he thought they would have a better life without him.

"Losing the custody battle nearly destroyed him. Did you see the look on his face when he lost, Mrs. Campbell? I’ve seen Captain Stanley witness horrors and all sorts of misery you can only imagine, but I never saw as much devastation on his face as I saw earlier today when he thought his girls were lost to him.

"Still, he tried to convince them that going with you was the best thing for them. That they shouldn’t hate you for taking them away from their father, but they should continue loving you because you cared enough to want the best for them." Mike stood. Ethel met his gaze; he saw Alan nodding his approval at his uncharacteristically long speech. "Even now, after all you put him through, I guarantee, Captain Stanley would still let you keep the girls, if he thought it was best for them. Nothing else matters as much to him."

That said, Mike began to walk away. He’d only gone a dozen steps when he heard Ethel’s voice. "Mr. Stoker."

Mike paused, turning. Ethel was standing; she approached him slowly. "Mr. Stoker, Ellen was my only child. Naturally, I wanted the best for her. While she was in college, she was dating a young man who was studying to be a lawyer. Things seemed to be serious between them. Then Ellen decided to finish up her schooling here, in Los Angeles. You can image how surprised I was when she called to tell me she was going to be getting married and her fiancé wanted to be a fireman! I was shocked! I blamed Henry for taking my little girl away from the very comfortable life she would have had if she had married Craig." She paused to catch her breath. Mike waited patiently, but remained silent.

"I tried everything to get Henry to change his mind and get what I thought was a better job, especially when the twins came along. What kind of a life could he give any of them when they had to constantly fear for his life when he went to work? I didn’t care that Ellen had accepted the risks; I continued to think she had made a mistake marrying Henry." Ethel paused to reflect on things she was now seeing differently. "Ellen was so excited when Henry got promoted to engineer, then eventually to captain. I never shared her enthusiasm and I should have. Ellen was very happy being Henry’s wife, but now I know I couldn’t see past my own selfish wishes." Ethel’s voice trailed to a whisper.

"You only wanted the best for your daughter, Mrs. Campbell," Mike replied. Cap’s mother-in-law didn’t seem the wicked witch anymore. He almost felt sorry for her. "That’s all any parent wants for their children."

"Maybe," she said. "I thought two of us raising the girls would be better than Henry going it alone. Now I see I wrong about that, too. Darcy and Tracy have more than just Henry, they have the whole fire department looking out for them." Ethel looked at her husband, who had come up behind her during her confession. "It would be a grave injustice for us to take them away from such a huge family."

The engineer smiled slightly. "Would you care to join us in the lounge?" he offered.

"No, I don’t think that would be such a good idea," Ethel shook her head.

"We have to contact our attorney about changing the hearing’s ruling," Alan stated. "You can let us know how things turn out with Hank. If he doesn’t make it," he paused, a flicker of sorrow passing over his face, "Then we can take over, but only if that’s what the girls want."

"I understand."

Alan held out his hand, pleased when Mike accepted it without hesitation. "We know you will all take good care of our granddaughters. We pray for Hank’s speedy recovery."

"He’ll be happy to hear that, Mr. Campbell."

*~*~*~*~*

Several days later, Dixie pushed open the door to Hank Stanley’s private room. She briefly wondered if there would be any improvement in his condition. The fire captain had come out of the surgery fine, though he would now be going through life without his spleen. As Kel Brackett had feared, however, Hank had suffered a cerebral contusion, a bruising of his brain. Since the surgery, he’d remained stuporous. Kel had told Hank’s anxious associates that recovery could be complete or not, there was no way of knowing so early in the game.

As Dixie wrapped the blood pressure cuff around Hank’s upper arm, she saw him stirring. He’d awakened many times over the past days, but hadn’t been coherent enough to know where he was or what was going on and had quickly fallen back to sleep. She smiled nonetheless and greeted the man in her most cheerful tone of voice. "Hello, Hank."

This time, however, he turned his head slowly in her direction. His eyes half-opened. He blinked a couple of times before asking hoarsely, "Dixie?"

"Well, now!" Dixie remarked happily. "Look who decided to rejoin the living?"

"I died?" His voice was a little stronger.

She smiled. "No, but you have been out of it for a few days. Everybody’s been worried about you."

"Worried? What happened?"

"What do you remember?" Dixie asked.

Hank’s brow furrowed as he thought. "I remember… the trial. I lost the girls, but then… they were kidnapped?" He paused; then exclaimed, "No, Tracy was kidnapped! Cal Adams took her… we fought on that catwalk…" Suddenly, he tried to sit up, but Dixie firmly held him down. "Tracy!" he blurted. "Is she all right?"

Dixie smiled. So far, it appeared Hank Stanley had come back to them. "Calm down, Hank, she’s just fine. She has a broken arm and a slight concussion. Nothing a little rest can’t cure. In fact, the concussion is pretty much cleared up now."

"Thank God." Hank relaxed against the pillows. "Cal Adams?"

The nurse hesitated before answering. "He’s dead, Hank."

Hank stared into the distance a moment. "What a waste. He had what it would take to be a damn good captain."

Dixie was silent for a few seconds, surprised there was no bitterness in the man’s voice. "Listen, you just take it easy. I’ll get a hold of Kel Brackett and Joe Early so they can take a look at you."

"All right," he replied. After she left the room, he looked down at the cast on his left arm; then reached up to touch the bandage on his head. Softly, he murmured, "Ah, damn it, Cal, what happened to make you flip out?"

*~*~*~*~*

A couple hours and a check-up by two of Rampart’s finest physicians later, Dixie again entered Hank’s room. "Up for some company?"

"Yeah, you bet," answered Hank. In truth, he was tired, but he certainly didn’t want to send anybody away if they had come all the way down to see him.

"Okay, hold on."

Dixie left the room. A few minutes later, Roy and Johnny stepped into the room. Hank smiled at his paramedics. "Hey, John, Roy."

"Hey, Cap, good to see you awake."

"Good to be awake, John."

Roy nodded a greeting. "Cap. You look pretty good."

"Considering what happened, I’d say so, too."

"The rest of the guys said they’d stop by later. We figured you wouldn’t be up to all of us at once," Roy explained.

"Good thinking." Hank paused, then asked, "Are my in-laws around?"

"No," Johnny shook his head. "They flew back to Chicago that night."

"Oh, I see." They decided to take the girls and run. They’re not even going to let me see them while I recover, he thought sadly.

Johnny exchanged a worried glance with his partner. Hank had suddenly taken on the aura of a man defeated. What was wrong? "They thought it was for the best, Cap. They figured you wouldn’t want to see them right now."

"Yeah," the captain nodded slightly. "I suppose."

The door opened. Joe Early stepped into the room. "Hey, Hank. I got a couple of young ladies from your fan club very anxious to check on your recovery." Before the captain could question what he was talking about, Joe opened the door wider.

Tracy and Darcy ran into the room and over to their father’s bedside. He found himself carefully hugged by first one, then the other of his daughters. They were both careful not to lean on his arm with the cast on it or disturb the IV attached to his other arm. Hank’s face lit up as he regarded the twins. "How’s the arm and head, Sport?" he asked Tracy.

"Okay." She held up her arm with the cast on it. "Look, we having matching broken arms!"

"So we do," Hank agreed. "I guess this means Darcy has the do the dishes for the next several weeks."

"Aw, Dad!" Darcy groaned, eliciting a laugh from the rest of the group.

Hank smiled at her. "You’ll survive, Kitten." Confusion creased Hank’s features when he redirected his gaze to the adults. "I thought you said they went to Chicago?"

Roy smiled, understanding why Hank had suddenly gotten the dismal look on his face earlier. "No, Cap, your in-laws went back to Chicago."

"Yeah, Grandma and Grandpa said we can stay with you now," Darcy stated.

"You’re stuck with us, Captain Stanley!" Tracy giggled.

"What happened?" Hank wanted to know.

"Well," Johnny scratched his ear, "Your daughters gave your mother-in-law a piece of their collective minds."

"What?"

"I understand it was an interesting sight," Joe remarked with a smile.

Hank gazed from Tracy to Darcy and back. He raised a questioning eyebrow. The girls exchanged looks when they saw the silent warning: Talk or else.

Tracy looked at her arm cast a second then said, "We got tired of Grandma saying all those bad things about you."

"We told her off," Darcy added.

Hank’s eyes widened. "You told off Grandma?"

Twin nods.

The captain chuckled. "I wish I’d seen it."

"But I don’t think we had anything to do with Grandma changing her mind," the injured twin stated.

"I think Uncle Mike told her off, too," the other figured.

Roy smiled at Hank’s questioning expression. "After your girls spoke their minds, your in-laws left the lounge where we were waiting. Mike followed. I don’t know what was said, but when he returned, he told us they were on their way to talk to their attorney about reversing the decision made at the hearing."

"Must have worked," Johnny continued. "A couple days ago, notice came from your lawyer the judge’s decision had been reversed."

"I don’t believe it," Hank reflected. He looked at the girls. "So you two are staying with Sandy?"

"No," Tracy answered. "We’re staying with Uncle Roy and Aunt Joanne."

Hank looked at his paramedic. "Thanks, Roy."

"Not a problem, Cap. They’ve been a pleasure to have."

"Yeah," Johnny added mischievously. "They’ve been providing us with some excellent blackmail material."

"Since when?" Tracy demanded.

"Yeah, what did we say that you could use against Dad?" Darcy wanted to know.

"Latrine duty for the next month, Mr. Gage!"

Johnny looked at Roy and Joe. "Yeah, they’re Cap’s daughters all right! They don’t miss a trick!"

The captain smiled proudly. "Of course." Then he gave the girls a stern look. "But then, my daughters usually do as they are told."

"I guess we’re in for it for running away, huh?" Darcy asked timidly.

"I’d say so."

"Um, Cap," Johnny interrupted. "It’s not my place, but you know they were really worried about you the past few days. They kept blaming themselves for what happened. Don’t you think that could be considered punishment enough?"

Hank regarded the contrite expressions on his daughters’ faces. Over the years he’d learned to read their expressions and knew when the wool was being pulled over his eyes. Most of the time was. This time, they were serious. Even if they’re not, I’ll cut them some slack. They’ve been through hell, too.

"You’ve got a point, John." He met his girls’ eyes. "My paramedic just saved two more lives. No punishment for running away; however, we will talk about this."

"I thought you said you weren’t going to punish us?" Tracy asked.

The adults laughed, except Hank, who gave his tomboy daughter a mock-stern look.

"Listen, I hate to break this up," Joe stated seriously, "But I think Captain Stanley needs his rest. Let’s vacate the premises, ladies, gentlemen."

The twins gave their father a hug apiece then started for the door. Johnny and Roy said their good-byes. Roy held open the door to let the rest leave first. "Hey, Roy," called Hank softly.

The paramedic turned to face his superior. "Yeah, Cap?"

"Thanks, again, for taking care of Darce and Trace. I appreciate it."

"No problem. You know, you may not get them back. They’ve been helping Joanne around the house. She loves it."

"Tell Joanne I want to know her secret."

Roy laughed. "Take care, Cap, and get some rest."

"Like I have a choice?"

Roy waved; then left. Hank settled back into the pillow as quiet descended in the room. Sleep, however, would not come easily. Emotions, ranging from anger and confusion to relief and revelation, passed through his mind. Eventually, he found his feelings focusing on the two most important situations that had happened in the past few weeks. I got my girls back! Thank you, God! And somewhere during all this mess, I came to realize that I could care again, that what I shared with Elly could happen again. Definitely not as much and not right away, yet, but given time, I might be able to find somebody. Maybe Kate and I can work something out.

His mind finally at peace with his thoughts, Hank was able to drift into a much-needed sleep.

*~*~*~*~*

Hank was lying in bed, his head slightly elevated, a magazine on his lap. He was totally bored. Where is everybody? He thought forlornly as he tried to read the same article for the third time without success. The excitement’s over, so I’m forgotten now? He couldn’t remember if his crew was on- or off-duty today. If they’re working, surely Roy and John would have had a run by now and stopped by to see me?

His head snapped up when there was a soft rapping on his door. It opened to reveal Kate. "Hey, up for some company?" she asked casually.

He smiled widely. "Kate!" He waved her inside as he tossed aside the magazine. "Come in!"

Hands behind her back, she approached the bed. "I’m sorry I haven’t been in to visit you sooner, Hank. With all that’s happened, I wasn’t sure if you wanted to see me."

"Nonsense. I was hoping you’d come by." He paused, hesitant to bring up a painful subject. He took a deep breath, then started, "Kate, I wanted--"

"How are you, Hank?" she asked at the same time.

He hesitated a moment. "Bored silly," he finally sighed, then remarked, "Actually, much better. I guess you heard I got my girls back."

"Yes, I’m so happy for you!" She brought her right arm from behind her back and presented him with a small stuffed Dalmatian dog. The toy sported a plastic fire helmet on its head and a fire engine red collar, the tag on which was printed the number 51. "Hank Stanley, meet Sparky!"

Hank took it from her and set it on his lap. "This is terrific! Thanks!"

"It’s the least I could do," she said. Her smile faded slowly.

Hank noticed the change in her demeanor. "What’s wrong?" Then he realized what he had just asked. "Oh, that was a stupid question!" He reached out and took Kate’s hand. "I’m really sorry about Cal. I didn’t go after him with any intention of harming him, Kate. You know that, don’t you?"

"Hank, I know you didn’t have a choice!" Kate sniffled. "Cal was going to hurt Tracy! He did hurt Tracy! I don’t understand what happened to him! He used to be a wonderful person, Hank! He cared about people; Jack told me he loved being a firefighter! He and Jack were so close. When Jack was killed… he changed, Hank! But I was just too wrapped up in my own grief to see it! Maybe I could have helped him through it."

"It wasn’t your fault, Kate! Nobody blames you."

"But he was a good man at one time, Hank! Nobody will know that!"

"I know he was." He fumbled for the box of Kleenex and offered it to her.

She took one, wiped her tearing eyes. "How-how can you say that? After what he did to you? After what he did to your daughters?"

"I worked with him at a couple of fires when he was first promoted, plus I knew him when we were both engineers. He seemed pretty competent to me."

Kate smiled through her tears. "You’re just an old softie, Hank Stanley!"

"Just don’t let it get around, all right?" He winked. Growing serious, he gave her hand a squeeze. "So what happens now?"

"Now?" Kate swallowed nervously.

"Between us," he answered. He could feel the tension in her hand and fingers. He met her eyes.

"I’ve come to care for you very much in a few short weeks, Hank," Kate admitted.

"But?" he prompted, closing his fingers around hers.

"I’m not sure where we’re going."

"Yeah, I know the feeling," he agreed. "I’ve got some very strong feelings for you, too, Kate, but I don’t know if I’m ready to commit myself to anybody right now. So much has happened in so short a time."

"You don’t have to say anything, Hank. Right now, you and the twins need some time to yourselves to heal and reaffirm the bond you have."

"I want them to meet you, Kate. I know they’d love you, too."

"I’d love to meet them," she assured, "but right now may be too soon for them. They’d only see me as Elly’s replacement." Seeing the confusion beginning to grow in his eyes, she continued quickly, "And I need some time to myself to sort out the jumble of emotions I’m feeling. Jack’s death. Cal’s death. What happened to you and the girls because of my involvement? How I feel for you. I just feel mixed up right now."

"Let me help you through it," the captain offered.

"I don’t think I can take on nearly teenaged twins on top of everything else, Hank. I don’t think if I can deal with the added set of emotions."

"I see," he stated solemnly. "So this is good-bye."

"Just until I get my feelings sorted out. When I do, I’ll come back, I promise! I can only hope you’ll still want me."

When Hank only nodded as he lowered his gaze, Kate felt her insides twist into a tight ball. She was hurting him again. Of course, she knew her leaving wouldn’t be easy on either of them, but she hadn’t expected him to take it so hard. Men weren’t supposed to be so emotional. Were they? He’s been through so much. Hank’s a sensitive guy. I’m just adding another straw on the camel’s back. I’m sorry, Hank! I have to do this. You’re also tough, Hank, you’ll get through it. After all, I’m not going away forever. That is, if you’ll still have me.

After a few seconds, the captain raised his head. He seemed perfectly in control of his emotions. He pulled her hand over to kiss the back of it. "You’d better come back quick because Tracy and Darcy will be young ladies soon. If I don’t have help preventing me from chasing away all the boys that’ll want to date them, they’re going to end up hating me."

Kate smiled through the tears filming her eyes. She leaned over and planted a big kiss on his lips. "I’ll do my best to sort out my feelings quickly, my captain!"

Hank put his hand behind her head and pulled her down for another passionate kiss. Letting her pull back, he eyed her sadly. "Take care, Kate."

"You, too, Hank." She gave his hand a quick squeeze then left the room without looking back.

Hank watched her walk out of his life. He caught himself scratching Sparky behind the ears. "Stanley, you need to get out of here," he commented aloud. "You’re petting a stuffed dog for cryin’ out loud!" Setting the stuffed animal aside, he lay back down and tried to get some sleep.

As he lay staring at the white ceiling, he realized Kate was right. The twins have been so protective of me since Elly died, they probably wouldn’t give Kate a chance. They would think I’m replacing Elly. He chuckled. I guess I’d better enjoy this closeness with them while I can. I’m afraid soon they’ll be too old to want a hug from dear old Dad.

The door opening interrupted his musings. Mike poked his head in; he smiled when he caught his superior’s eye. "Hey, Cap, up for some visitors?"

"Sure thing!" Hank grinned, relieved to get his mind off Kate’s departure. He was surprised when his entire crew trooped through the door, especially when he saw Roy carrying a large floral display. The paramedic set the arrangement of red and yellow tulips on a nearby tray. "Hey, you didn’t have to do this!" he protested, though deep down he was touched they’d go to the trouble.

"How could we not, Cap?" Chet remarked.

"Actually, it was your daughters’ idea," Roy told him. "They asked us to stop at the gift shop on our way up and get you something."

"They were very insistent on tulips," Johnny stated.

Hank smiled. "They were Elly’s favorites." Yep, it’s a good thing Kate decided to make herself scarce for a while. They definitely aren’t in a sharing mood right now!

"Anyway, here we are," Roy finished.

"Where are my troublemakers?" Hank wanted to know.

"Dr. Early wanted to give Trace a quick once-over to make sure she’s doing all right," Mike answered. "Darce went with her."

"I see," the captain nodded. "They’ve been behaving themselves, Roy? Honestly, now. I want to know."

"No problems, Cap, honest, though Tracy really wants to come to work with me so she can ride on the engine during our runs."

Hank held up his hand. "Let me guess. Darcy got to do it, why can’t she?"

"Exactly."

Johnny chuckled as Hank shook his head in resignation.

"I’ll talk to her," Hank promised.

"Don’t worry about it, Cap," Roy assured.

"He told her to wait until you’re back to work, and take it up with you," Johnny retorted.

Chet picked up Sparky. "Ya know, Cap, I used to sleep with a stuffed animal, too. Only mine was a Teddy bear and I was five years old at the time."

"Do you mind?" Hank tugged the dog resolutely away from his crewman. The captain seemed a little embarrassed to be caught with a stuffed toy on his bed. "This was a gift, ya twit!"

"You know what they say about men who—"

"How are you doing, Cap?" Marco interrupted before Chet could go off on a speech on the psychological ramifications of a grown man sleeping with a stuffed animal.

"Fine, pal, just fine," Hank answered, grateful for the change in subject. "Doc says if everything checks out all right, I should be sprung the day after tomorrow."

"That’s great!"

"Yeah, this lying around is for the birds." Hank fell silent a moment, then asked solemnly, "I take it they held Calvin Adams’ funeral while I was still out of it?"

"Yeah, they did," replied Roy.

"There were a lot of people there," Chet commented. "I was surprised."

"He was a captain with the fire service, Chet," Hank stated. "He was good at his job. Why wouldn’t there be a lot of people there?"

"How can you say that after what he did to you, Cap?" the Irish firefighter challenged. "It was his fault you ended up here! Tracy got hurt because of him!"

The captain held Chet’s gaze. "I seem to remember a certain captain beating up on his crew for a couple of weeks. Why wasn’t that reported, Chester?"

"Because you weren’t being yourself, Cap! We knew that!"

"Cal wasn’t himself, either," Hank said. "Besides, you ought to be flattered. Cal had been subbing for several captains over the months since he was promoted. He decided he wanted to command Station 51’s A-shift. You must have impressed him."

"Well, if I’d known by impressing Captain Adams it would have put your life or your daughters’ lives in danger, Cap," Marco asserted, "I would have screwed up."

Hank smiled. "You guys wouldn’t know how to screw up intentionally. You do your jobs too well. By wanting to run my shift, Cal also paid me a complement."

"Did you know Calvin Adams, Cap?" Mike queried gently.

"Some, when we were both engineers. He was a good man. He just let the grief and pain he’d taken on overwhelm him. I know how easily that can happen."

"But it didn’t happen to you, Cap," Johnny said.

"It could have, John. If I hadn’t had my twins to care for, if I hadn’t had the constant support of my fellow firefighters after Elly’s death, what happened to Cal could very well have been me."

Silence fell among the shift-mates, none of them sure how to answer such an admission. The sobering mood was quickly broken when the door flew open to admit two blond-haired twins. Hank’s crew broke into grins and chuckles when their captain was practically smothered by hugs and kisses. The five exchanged glances as they realized that their captain’s strength came not only from within, but from those around him. It was this strength that inspired loyalty, making Captain Stanley an easy man to respect and, as Chief McConnike had said, go to the mat for.

*~*~*~*~*

Marco slammed his car door closed. A quick scan of the area and he spotted Roy and Joanne DeSoto following their two children towards the gate that led to the Stanleys’ backyard. "Hey, Roy!" he called, trotting over to his co-worker’s side. He nodded to the pretty brunette at Roy’s side. "How are you, Joanne?"

"I’m fine, Marco, good to see you again." She gave Marco a warm smile before turning to her husband. "Roy, I’m going to see if Hank needs any help."

"He said his neighbor Sandy was coming over to help and I spotted Mike’s truck in the driveway," he told her.

"Oh, good, just one other woman to supervise this thing? You know you firefighters are just as bad as the kids!" She hurriedly followed the path her son and daughter had taken, leaving the two crewmates to tag along more slowly.

"Poor Cap," Marco lamented, "he’s the father of teenagers now. I can’t believe he decided to have a party."

Roy smiled. "I think Elly had planned on having this party last year. She always was one to think ahead." He paused as they reached the gate. "I think all three need this. What happened a month ago was hard on all of them?"

"Yeah," the other agreed thoughtfully. "I’m glad they had the past few weeks together to get things straightened out." Marco opened the gate, allowing his friend to precede him into the backyard where a party was definitely going full swing.

There were about a dozen or so teens or near-teens, male and female, hanging around, either talking and munching on food or dancing to the music. Contrary to Joanne’s comment about Sandy and her being the only "grown-ups" around, there were other adults there, neighbors and other firefighters, gathered in their own groups, discussing more mature subject matters than who the cutest boys are and where were the best places to hang out. Several younger children also darted about the yard, playing tag. A long table set up near a side fence was covered with finger food of all kinds with a bowl of punch placed at one end.

Roy and Marco spotted their superior talking to Tom Lombard, so they strolled in that direction. Hank greeted them warmly. "Thanks for coming, guys."

"Glad to come, Cap," Roy smiled as he greeted Tom, then he nodded where his wife was talking to Sandy, Tom’s wife Anne, and several fellow firefighters, including Chet and Mac McKenzie from The Second Alarm. "I figured you wouldn’t want to be the only grown-up around, besides Sandy, but I see there are other adults here. Joanne would say half of the them here don’t count, of course."

"She still thinks firefighters are just big boys with oversized toys?" Hank grinned.

"You got it."

"She’s right!" Marco commented.

"Can’t argue with that sentiment, pal," Hank remarked. "Oh, the more adult drinks are in the kitchen." He gestured towards the back door. "Help yourself."

Roy nodded his thanks. "Your daughters look like their having a good time," the paramedic observed, seeing the twins gathered with a group of male and female friends. It was easy to tell the two apart, even from across the yard, as Tracy still had a cast on her arm. "Your sons here, too, Tom?"

"Yeah, they’re around here somewhere," B-shift’s captain gestured with his beer bottle. "You should be enjoying this, Hank!" he encouraged, picking up on the conversation he must have been having with his colleague before Marco and Roy approached. "They only enter teenhood once in a lifetime."

"Thank God for little favors!"

"Speaking from personal experience, I can tell you that the next seven years will drive you to the nut house." Tom grinned.

"Thanks, Lombard," Hank stated sarcastically. Tom nodded and laughed as he stepped away from the small group and headed towards a knot of other firefighters.

"How’s the arm, Cap?" Marco gestured to his captain’s arm cast. "Do you know when you’ll get that off?"

"Next week if the x-rays come out all right. Hopefully, I’ll be back to work shortly after that."

"That’s great to hear."

"Oh, hey, when you guys get the chance," Hank reached over to a smaller table set up for the party and snagged a thin black marker, "why don’t you go over and sign Tracy’s cast? She’s really gotten quite a collection from everybody."

"And can we sign yours, too?" Roy smiled as he gestured to the signatures and pictures drawn on Hank’s own cast.

Marco looked at the black scribbles. "Looks like Mike and Chet beat us to it."

"You weren’t supposed to see those, ya twit," Hank grumbled good-naturedly. Seeing the steady gaze the Latino firefighter was giving him, he held out the pen. "All right, but nothing smart-assed. My daughters read these, ya know."

"Smart-assed? From me, Cap?" Marco asked innocently. He scrawled his name, something in Spanish, and a quick sketch of a firefighter’s helmet.

Hank watched, his brows rose in surprise when he saw the picture. "I didn’t know you could draw, Marco. That’s pretty good, especially considering my specialty is stick figures."

"Don’t knock yourself short, Cap, you draw fairly well during our drills." Marco handed the felt pen to Roy. "I think I’ll go wish the twin troublemakers a happy birthday." With that, he departed, walking over to where the twins were hanging out.

Roy stepped into the spot vacated by his crewmate. He simply signed his name in a blank spot on his captain’s cast. He directed his gaze where Hank was staring. He saw one of the boys whisper something in Darcy’s ear. Darcy giggled after he stepped back.

"You better get used to it, Cap."

Hank drew his attention back to his guest. "What?"

Roy nodded with his chin towards the group of teens. "That. You better get used to the boys hanging around Darce and Trace. They’re growing up, Cap. They won’t lack for dates, that’s for sure."

Hank watched as Johnny approached the group a step behind Marco. Darcy smiled when she saw her "Uncle" Johnny and threw her arms around him in a hug. Tracy slipped her arm amicably around Marco’s waist for a quick hug before allowing him to sign her cast. The other girls in the group looked on, obviously enjoying the presence of the adult males. Tracy’s developed as much of a crush on Marco as Darcy has on Johnny. It’s not easy being a father! "That’s what scares me, Roy."

"You’ll do all right."

"Oh, yeah?" Hank challenged genially. "Just wait until your daughter reaches this age. You’ll be right where I am now."

"Where’s that?" Mike retorted as he walked up to his colleagues. "The Big Sleepy Rest Home, for hose jockeys who’ve breathed too much smoke?"

"Speak for yourself, Stoker," Hank shot back good-naturedly. Both he and Roy accepted the bottles of beer the fire specialist had brought over for them.

"Things could be worse, Cap," Mike observed after taking a sip from his bottle.

Hank gave his engineer a questioning look.

"That could be Johnny and Chet over there with Trace and Darce."

"You’ve got a point, pal," the captain agreed. He watched thoughtfully as Johnny and Marco disengaged themselves from the crowd of teens to join a group of adults near the buffet table. The girls watched the firefighters until they were out of earshot, then they talked excitedly amongst themselves, giggling at comments Hank was sure concerned his crewmen’s physical attributes. He shook his head before taking a swallow of his beer. "I had the strangest conversation with Elly’s parents this morning or, rather, Elly’s mother."

"Elly’s mother?" Mike queried, surprised. "I thought she avoided speaking to you since the accident."

"Well," Hank scratched behind his ear, "she hadn’t spoken to me much. I hadn’t heard word from either of them since the trial. I guess they were feeling bad about the whole thing. I should have called them myself but, to be honest, I wasn’t sure if they wanted to talk to me. Anyway, they called this morning to talk to the twins, wish ‘em a happy birthday and see if they got that huge box of stuff they sent. Imagine my surprise when Ethel asked to talk to me." He shook his head. "Ever since I’ve known her, she insisted on calling me ‘Henry.’ Not only did she talk to me today, but she actually called me ‘Hank.’"

"I’m surprised the twins didn’t have to call in the paramedics for you, Cap," Roy teased.

"Damn near came close to being a cardiac, let me tell you!"

Mike and Roy chuckled. Mike asked, "So, things are okay between you and them?"

"I’d say so, though the girls are having a hard time forgiving them for what happened."

"And you’re not?"

"They meant well," was all Hank would say.

Mike and Roy left it at that. If their captain was satisfied with the outcome, then who were they to argue?

A short while later, the twins were presented with their birthday cakes. Darcy’s cake was decorated with flowers and smiley faces while Tracy’s was more sports orientated. Both cakes sported the obligatory thirteen candles, which were lit with various cracks from the firefighters concerning the need to pull an inch-an-a-half or grabbing the reel line. The girls officially entered their teen years simultaneously with cheers from the gathered guests.

As Hank stepped back to take in the scene, he caught himself thinking how much Elly would have loved to be there. Both twins glanced up at the same time from their cake-cutting duties and met their father’s eyes. They smiled at him and Hank realized his wife was with him. Elly would always be with him, in the guise of his beautiful daughters. Silently, he returned the smiles with one of his own. "Love you," he mouthed. They nodded before returning to their task.

Looking up, Hank caught Mike’s gaze. Station 51’s A-shift engineer raised his beer bottle in a silent toast. Hank returned the salute.

Life was good.

The End

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Part I