RETURN

With news of the Alphans pending return the media was in overdrive and so was Susan. She arranged for three suites at the Knickerbocker Hotel near the Cape, so that hopefully the reporters would not inundate them.

Gina was also interested in helping her out with protecting Mel. There were rumors flying that she would be arrested upon her return, for stealing the Meta Probe and some experimental engines.

Susan put a call into her old friend, Senator Harris. He'd know what was going on, he always did.

The Alphans started arriving, Tony Cellini and Tony Verdeschi were on the first ship to arrive.

Susan did everything she could to get around Commissioner Simmonds. But the Commissioner was under a lot of pressure. The problems, which had been created by the moon's departure, were tremendous and he was being blamed for all of them. He did have one ace up his sleeve, the recording of his conversation with Harris prior to breakaway. He also had Victor Bergman's lab searched just after his death but found nothing. He had to find some evidence of the magnetic radiation that Bergman had been so worried about. He had tried to get them to listen to Bergman, but he'd failed at every turn.

The Eagles began arriving, bringing back the two hundred fifty plus members of Alpha and much of the information and technology they had collected over the years. Sandra had been put in charge of preparing and maintaining the information and technology they were returning. Sandra had been so happy when Peter stepped off the ship. She thought she'd lost him forever.

The ships began arriving in waves. The crew was welcomed by a mass of reporters and space commission members. The reporters where curious as to what their journey had been like, but the space commission kept a tight rein on everyone. They were escorted to nearby hotels that the space commission could control. They were allowed to see family and friends that had gathered when the news of their arrival had been announced.

Alan changed disks, tapping his foot impatiently. He had work to do, but had the feeling that this was important. He had kept a file of all technical information he could possibly collect while on their travels. This information had been part of the reports John had already sent back with Tony in the first ship. Alan wanted a copy for himself.

He jumped as the door opened and Melissa practically bounced in. His heart rate increased as their eyes met. She carried a clipboard. "That's the last set of ships. All provisioned properly, the checklist completed."

She sat in his lap and he kissed her hungrily. When they came up for air she leaned her head against his shoulder. She was wearing that black flight suit again, and Alan thought she was an absolute knockout in it. He played with the zipper. They would be leaving soon. "You've been an incredible help, love. I could use you as my assistant all the time."

"Any time. I can't say I'm looking forward to using that jump drive again."

"Just once. Then we'll be home." He kissed her neck.

"Home," she purred. "And together."

His hands roamed her body. "I've missed you so," he murmured in her ear.

She kissed him again, then pulled back to look at him. "Let's make a baby when we get home."

"Just like that?" he grinned.

"Oh, well, it might take months and months of practice." she said rubbing her hands down his chest.

"You are determined to have your father kill me aren't you?"

"Whatever do you mean?"

"If he finds out I've knocked you up, he'll nail the family jewels to his front gate." He kissed her again. "And I thought you were fond of them."

"Oh, I am," she shifted so that she was straddling him and had better access to the objects in question. "Very fond."

"There's only one way I'll cooperate, love."

"What's that?"

"We have a completely legal, signed and recorded marriage license before we start."

She leaned back, hands on his shoulders, and looked at him. There was a long silence between them. Alan held still, his hands on her slim waist. He was almost afraid she'd tell him there was no chance of that happening and walk out the door.

"You mean, a forever and always sort of license?"

"That's the kind."

She touched his cheek with her fingertips and drew her finger down his neck and chest. She walked her fingers back up his chest. "Do you want to knock me up, Alan Carter?"

"Very much, Melissa Thompson. But those are my terms."

She considered for a moment. "Okay, it's a deal."

"It is?" Her response took him by surprise. He grinned, barely believing his good fortune.

"You're not going to back out are you?"

"I'm not, are you?"

"Not me. When will we do it?"

"First chance we get when we get back to Earth?"

"Seal it with a kiss?"

Alan pulled her to him and they thoroughly sealed the bargain. He couldn't wait to get home.

John, Helena, Alan and Melissa were among the last to leave Alpha. John walked the base for the final time, meeting Helena in Medical Center. He moved to her and embraced her. "Ready to go home?" He asked, pulling her to him.

She smiled against his chest and nodded.

She pulled away and looked up at him. "What do you think will be waiting for us?" She asked.

"I hope, not a firing squad." He said half seriously. "After all the problems Melissa has told us about, I'm sure Simmonds is looking for a sacrificial lamb, and I'm not about to be it."

"You can't believe that John. You had no idea what you were getting into, they set you up. He set you up."

"I just wish Alan had some idea about Victor's records, that would be a help."

"We'll figure out something, John, we always do."

"Just remember these aren't aliens we'll be dealing with, they're politicians, big difference." He said with a smile.

She smiled at his attempt at a joke, she knew he wasn't looking forward to seeing Simmonds again.

"You remember that warning Simmonds gave me, when I took command?"

She nodded.

"Wonder what he's gonna say now." He said pulling her to him again. "So much for fraternization with command personnel." He said bending to kiss her gently.

She parted from him. "If he only knew." She laughed.

She hugged him again.

"Walk with me." He said taking her hand.

They closed the door to the medical center for the last time. They walked through the hallways one last time, ending up at the boarding hatch for the Eagle where Alan and Melissa waited for them.

With one last look at the base where he'd spent the last five years, John said, "Goodbye Alpha" as he closed the hatch to the Eagle. He joined Alan in the pilot section.

"Ready to go home, skipper?" Alan said from the co-pilot's seat.

John strapped himself in. "Yeah Alan, I'm ready."

Alan gave him a lopsided grin and started the preflight.

The ride was a short one in space terms. The engines that had been developed had worked well in the testing and so far seemed to be performing to specification.

Helena was excited about going home but Melissa was a bit apprehensive. She knew that she was in for a world of trouble when she returned, having stolen the Meta Probe and the newly developed engines, but she hoped that with a little help she'd be vindicated. John had told her not to expect a lot of help from the space commission. What John didn't realize was Mel's last conversation with the Commissioner.

They were greeted by a horde of people when they touched down at the Cape. Simmonds was the first.

"Ah John, welcome home." He said with his hand outstretched, a little shocked at John's appearance.

John shook Simmonds' hand firmly. "Thank you, Commissioner, it's good to be back.

"You'll understand that we have a lot of questions. Your debriefing is scheduled...." He stated.

John cut him off, "I would expect no less, Commissioner. But first, I'd like to see that my people are taken care of."

Helena, Alan and Melissa stood behind him.

Simmonds noticed Melissa standing next to Alan. "Miss Thompson, I would appreciate your cooperation in coming to the commission office to discuss what action will be taken....

Alan slipped his arm around her, protectively. And John stepped forward, glaring down at the Commissioner, cutting him off again. "Simmonds, no one is going anywhere except to a comfortable place to rest. We have had a long trip and we all need to rest. I hope that you have seen to the needs of the others as well."

Simmonds nodded. He knew John had never back down from a fight, but he was even more forceful now. "Yes Commander, your crew is being looked after."

"I appreciate that, Commissioner."

Simmonds turned to move away and Helena moved beside John and took his hand. "Just like you suspected." She said quietly.

He nodded and they moved to follow Simmonds.

They moved into a large crowded reception area. As John entered, applause started and slowly moved throughout the room. John smiled as he moved through the room filled with Alphans. He saw Tony Cellini and Tony Verdeschi standing with Maya in the center of the room. Beside them stood Robert and Susan Thompson. Susan saw her daughters and opened her arms wide to hug them. Robert smiled at them as they approached. Helena went into her mother's arms and hugged her tight. Melissa stood behind her and hugged both of them. Robert reached for John's hand and slapped him on the back. John was surprised at the display from his now father-in-law.

"Thank you John, for bringing them back to me."

John smiled, "Actually sir, it was more of Melissa's doing than mine." He admitted.

Helena moved to her father, who bear hugged her and smiled at Melissa over Helena's head.

Melissa returned his smile as she moved to embrace him as well.

"Oh Missy, we've been so worried." Susan said.

Alan moved to Mel's side and put his around her waist. "Nothing to worry about Ms. T. She just came to get me."

Susan laughed at Alan's attempt. And Mel leaned into him.

John excused himself from the reunion and moved to Cellini. "Hey, Tony. Everything go all right?" John asked his friend.

"Yes, John, like clockwork. Those engines are incredible." He responded.

John nodded at his friend and extended his hand to him. "Thanks Tony, we all owe you a lot."

Tony nodded at John. "It was all Melissa's doing, John, she made it happen."

"Yeah, but she had to find the second best pilot in space to come get us."

Tony smiled at John's ribbing; it was an old joke between them. "I'm glad I could be of use John, it felt good to be needed again."

John turned back and glanced over at Helena. She was having an animated conversation with her father. Alan and Mel were talking with Susan.

He looked around the room at all the faces of the people he'd spent the last five years with. He felt as if a great weight had been lifted from his shoulders. They'd found their home. Their real home.

Helena looked away from her father and saw John assessing the room. She moved toward him. She gently touched his arm and he turned to her. She saw the relief in his eyes. "You okay John? You look a little lost." She said.

He ran his hand down her arm. "I just never thought I'd see the day."

She smiled up at him. "We've home, John. Our journey is finished, for the time being. Now we'll take some time for us." She moved her hand up his arm.

That's what she always wanted, he thought. Time together on Alpha had always been fleeting. He smiled slightly and drew her to him. "I love you."

"I know." She responded, giving him a light kiss.

The reunion was adjourned and all the Alphans went in separate directions with loved ones. The Thompson's had seen to arrangements for their clan. Susan had made good use of her daughter's connections. Three suites were at their disposal the Knickbocker Hotel on the Space Coast.

Susan had a car take them to the hotel. She handed each man a key to the rooms. "No arguments, Robert." She said to her husband as she handed Alan a key.

She addressed the group. "I suggest we all go freshen up then meet for dinner on the terrace at seven."

Robert smiled at his wife, she was in control. Helena and Melissa nodded their understanding. "All right then, off you go." She waved them off.

Helena laughed at her mother and pushed John toward the elevator.

Alan took Mel's hand. "Come on Love, I want to see the beach first."

Robert slipped an arm about Susan's waist. "You are going to tell them tonight, aren't you?"

Susan took a deep breath and nodded slowly.

John stretched out on the bed, staring at the ceiling fan spinning above him while Helena opted for a real shower. He was tired but he was still thinking about Simmonds' greeting at the Eagle. He knew Simmonds was going to try and cover his ass. He always did.

He heard the shower stop and he propped himself up on the bed. Helena emerged from the steamy room in a bathrobe.

"God that was just wonderful!" Helena exclaimed as she moved to sit beside him.

"Maybe I should have joined you." He said with a tired smile.

She leaned to him her hands on his chest. "Maybe you should." She smiled, looking at him.

"You look tired, John." She said, touching his cheek.

He shook his head. "I'm okay. I guess I just have a lot on my mind."

She took a deep breath, watching his eyes as she sat up. "Simmonds." She said flatly.

He nodded.

A moment of silence passed between them. "What are you thinking?" She asked.

"I'm thinking I need to find Victor's files."

"How?"

He shook his head. "I don't know...I thought Alan would remember something."

"They should still be in storage, shouldn't they?"

He nodded.

"Call Vicky, perhaps she can help."

"I guess that would be a starting point."

"Maybe, Maya could be a help if you find anything."

He nodded and took her hand in his and watched her.

"John, did Victor ever have a lab assistant or someone that he worked with?" She asked, trying to remember.

John shook his head. "Not that I remember."

"I don't remember anyone either. He always worked alone."

John looked down at his hand that held hers. It was still difficult for him to talk about his dear departed friend.

Helena squeezed his hand and lifted his chin with her other hand. "We'll call Vicky tomorrow. See if she can help."

He gave her a soft smile, but she knew he was still thinking about Simmonds. "Now, are you going to lay there and look pensive or are you going to come wash my back?" She asked.

That brought a smile to his face; she always knew how to distract him. "Now how can I refuse an invitation like that."

She pulled him off the bed and he followed her to bathroom.

Two hours later they joined Robert, Susan, Alan and Melissa on the terrace. They were all attired in casual civilian clothes. Helena told her mother that she had been so excited to find something new to wear, hanging in the closet. She was tired of uniforms.

Susan had picked out clothes that suited both her daughters and their men as well. Although she'd been unsure of the sizes, she'd had to make an educated guess. They all agreed that she'd done an excellent job.

Dinner was a lively affair with stories of their five years of adventures floating through space. Both Robert and Susan were amazed at the story they related of the going back to Scotland in 1339 and almost being burned alive. Once again, John's training and determination had sustained them.

Robert noticed Alan's deferral to John. They had obviously been through a great deal together. He was also pleased to see that Helena and John had married. He was proud of this daughter and he decided to give John another chance; he had brought his Cupcake and Jelly Bean back to him.

With another bottle of wine gone, Susan turned the conversation a bit more serious.

"John," She said. "Just what do you think Simmonds will have in store for you?"

John's face turned serious as he looked across at her. "Helena and I were talking about that earlier. I'm sure he is going to try and cover up what actually happened on Alpha. I know what happened and I know that both he and Gorski knew about the radiation problem and what was going on up there."

Susan looked at him directly. "John, you must be careful. They are planning a complete investigation and even a joint U.N/Senate inquiry."

"I would welcome that. Maybe then the truth could be told."

"No, John, it won't be what you think, it'll be all for show. The politicians will try to blame the space program for everything that has happened here."

"And Missy, we've contacted a criminal lawyer for you. I think your going to need one."

"What...?" Melissa exclaimed.

"You don't think they'd just let you run off with their precious ship do you and not make you pay." Robert interjected.

"I knew there would be some problems, but criminal charges?"

"Theft being but one charge, I'm sure." Said the tall sandy haired man with glasses standing behind them, listening to their conversation.

Melissa turned to see who spoke. It was Alexander Masters a very successful criminal lawyer. "That may not be all they have in store for you." He said moving closer to him.

Robert looked up at him. "Alex, please join us, won't you?"

Alex shook his head. "Thank you Mr. Thompson, but you should enjoy your family tonight."

Robert nodded. "Let me at least introduce you. Alex Masters." He went around the table. "My daughter, Melissa, Alan Carter, Helena Koenig, and her husband, John."

Helena smiled at her father's use of her married name.

Alan stood to shake Tom's hand. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Masters." He said. "Will you be able to help Melissa?"

"I hope so, Captain Carter, I hope so." Returning Alan's firm grasp.

"Forgive me for the interruption, but I did want to meet all of you." He said. "I'll say goodnight." He said with a nod.

Alan returned to sit beside Melissa.

"That's my lawyer?" Melissa asked.

Robert nodded. "He is highly recommended."

"By whom?"

"Neil Harris." Susan said.

"The Senator!" Alan exclaimed.

Susan nodded, "Yes Alan, and our friend." She said covering Robert's hand with her own.

"Can we trust the Senator?" John asked.

Susan looked directly at him. "He may be the only friend we have, John."

Melissa looked at Alan and back to her parents. "He may not be our only ally. Commissioner Simmonds should be on our side too."

John laughed out loud. "Mel you obviously don't know the Commissioner well. He will do everything to cover his back."

Alan looked at Mel. "What do you mean, love?"

"When we had him locked up on the space dock, we made a deal. He'd protect the people on space dock that had helped us take the ship and he agreed to work with Angela Verdeschi on our return."

"Then we'd better find Mrs. Verdeschi." Helena said.

"May I make one suggestion." Susan said.

They all turned to face her. "That we make a fresh start tomorrow."

Helena smiled at her mother. She was always looking out for everyone. Helena nodded her head. "She's right, we'd all do better with a good night's sleep."

John smiled at her and nodded, she was right. "Till tomorrow then. Why don't all of you come to our room for breakfast about eight-thirty." John said to everyone.

Alan nodded and took Melissa's hand and stood. "Come on love, you heard your mother."

Susan smiled at her daughter. "He is the reason you did all this Missy."

Melissa stood beside Alan and looked at her parents and smiled. "And he's worth it, Mom."

She pulled Alan away from the table.

Susan looked at Helena, her eyes wide. "That's a first." She said.

Helena smiled after her sister. "I think she's finally found the one, Mom," she said. "I know, I did." She continued moving her hand to cover John's.

John smiled at her fondly and softly kissed her cheek.

Susan smiled knowingly at her daughter and nodded.

"Come on Robert, it's been a long day. We should let these two get some rest, I have a feeling the next few days will be taxing."

Robert stood and held Susan's chair for her. John and Helena joined them for the walk to the elevator. On the top floor, they slowly made their way to their respective rooms.

Susan stopped in front of her room turning to hug Helena. "Goodnight honey, it is truly wonderful to have you back."

Helena kissed her mother's cheek. "I love you, Mom."

Susan turned John as Robert embraced Helena. She reached up to kiss his cheek and hug him. "Welcome to the family." She said softly.

John smiled as he released her. "Thank you."

Their goodnights said; John moved his arm around Helena's waist as they moved further down the hall to their room.

Inside their suite, they prepared for bed.

John found Helena standing in the main room of the suite looking out the window at the water. He moved behind her and slipped his arms around her.

"What's wrong," He asked quietly.

"It just looks so different with no moonlight." She said.

He kissed her neck. "I know. You know your mother is one heck of a woman, now I know where you get it from."

She turned to face him. "I hope that she's right about Harris. I never liked the man."

"I guess we'll find out." He leaned back from her. "Now, are you coming to bed?"

She smiled and moved her arms up around his neck. "Yes, Commander."

He laughed lightly at her response. "Come on."

They snuggled together to sleep and got that good nights sleep, Susan suggested. Both knew that the next few days would be difficult.

The next morning, as the rising sun shown the window, Helena rolled over and found John staring at the ceiling.

"Good morning." She said kissing his shoulder.

"Morning."

"What time is it?" She asked.

"About six-thirty, I think."

"You're right on schedule then."

He turned to her. "What?"

She propped up on her elbow and looked at him. "You've probably been up since five-thirty working the problem in your head."

He laughed lightly, "Guess I am predictable."

She nodded, "Mm huh, just the way I like it." She said moving her hand across his chest to lie against him.

She looked out at the sunrise. "Isn't that just beautiful." She said appreciatively as she looked out the window.

He nodded and pulled her close to him and kissed her as she moved her leg between his.

She parted from him and smiled. "Now how about a proper good morning." She said moving her hand down his body.

He returned her smile and pulled her to him. "Whatever you say, Doctor."

He pulled her to him for another kiss then rolled her onto her back. He smoothed her hair back and caressed her cheek. "You are beautiful." He said softly.

She smiled up at him as he covered her mouth with his and his hands moved over her body.

As he parted from her he trailed kisses down her neck stopping at her breasts.

"Oh John..." She moaned as he gently kissed each of them.

She moved her hands to his hair as he continued his trail of kisses. She leaned back against the pillows, enjoying his caresses. He pushed the covers aside and moved down her body.

She moaned softly as he kissed her belly and slowly trailed a finger from her knee to the top of her thigh. He moved his hand between her thighs and gently moved his fingers inside her, stroking her.

She caught a breath as he touched her and closed her eyes. He slowly began retracing his path to her breasts. He maintained the motion of his hand and didn't break his rhythm against her.

Helena opened her eyes and watched him as he moved back to kiss her. His mouth covered hers for a long, deep wet kiss.

They parted breathless and he knew she was close. He was ready for her and as she reached for him he moved his leg between hers and removed his hand, quickly replacing it with his hard penis.

She gasped as he touched her and her orgasm began to over take her and he entered her quickly, making her cry out with pleasure.

He began to move against her as she moved her hips to meet his thrusts. He leaned down and kissed her breasts as he moved.

He increased the speed of his thrusts as the urgency of his release neared. As he reached down to kiss Helena again, he came inside her with such intensity, he raised his head, "Oh God!" He exclaimed.

She wrapped her arms tight around him, enjoying the warm sensation that passed through her.

He laid against her, breathless as she held him, both savoring their mutual orgasm.

John recovered and he pushed himself above her and looked into her satisfied eyes.

"I'd say that was a proper good morning." She said smiling as she looked up at him.

He grinned and leaned down to kiss her.

He slipped from her and stretched out next to her, moving his arm across her. She rolled onto her side pulling him with her; he spooned her, covering one breast with his hand.

She sighed at his touch as he kissed her neck. "Good morning, indeed." He said as he drifted back to sleep, with a satisfied smile on his face. John's hand relaxed from her breast and she moved it down to her belly and covered it with her own and joined her husband in sleep.

An hour later they had showered and found more new clothes to wear. John commented that he hadn't worn a new pair of jeans in years. Helena opted for a yellow sundress.

Helena ordered breakfast for the clan and they all arrived promptly at eight-thirty.

Melissa poured coffee for all of them.

Although he didn't have all the details he needed, John had worked out a fairly good plan. Alan was to get in touch with Angela Verdeschi to find out how she could help. John would have to meet with Simmonds and Helena would contact Vicky about Victor's files and if she were successful, to contact Sandra. She would also have a look at the news reports regarding the return. Melissa, Robert and Susan would meet with the attorney and find out just what might lie in store for her.

Robert was very impressed with John; he obviously attacked a problem from all directions.

With their morning meeting completed, they all went their separate directions to complete their assigned tasks. Susan pulled Helena and Melissa aside, just before they broke up.

"I hope we will have a little time for shopping." She said.

Helena and Melissa laughed at their mother, which turned the heads of the males in the room.

"Well, maybe after you meet with Alex, we could slip away for a bit." Helena said quietly.

Susan and Melissa nodded their understanding.

Robert approached the threesome. "Just what are you up to over here, Susan."

Susan looked over her shoulder at her husband. "Nothing dear, just talking to my girls."

The meeting broke up with the next one scheduled for dinner. John crossed the closet to get a jacket. Helena turned on the television to see the news.

He stopped at the sofa where she sat. "Just what was all that with Mel and Susan?" He asked looking down at her.

She looked up at him. "My secret."

He shook his head and leaned down to kiss her. "I'll see you tonight."

"Be careful."

He nodded at her warning and was gone.

The day was frustrating to some degree. Helena reached Vicky Bergman, but she had no idea, if any of her uncle's things could help in their research. She did remember that Alan had cleared out the lab for her and he had helped John clear out the apartment.

She agreed to Fed Ex the key to the rental locker to Helena, so that they could inspect the files and belongings.

She contacted Sandra and spoke with her regarding the possibility that her help might be needed in sorting through the files. Sandra didn't hesitate to assist them in their search.

Helena also scanned all the news reports on the television to see just what the media and the government was up to.

Alan's quest to find Angela Verdeschi was easy. He found her at Guido's house near the cape, getting acquainted with Maya and teaching her how to cook.

He learned that Angela had been contacted by Commissioner Simmonds. Although she didn't completely trust him, she did believe that he did genuinely want to save the space program. He told her that he could not control what the government might do to those who returned from Alpha. The Earth had been so devastated by the Moon's departure, but he said he would assist them as best he could. As for Melissa Thompson, it would be most difficult to keep her out of trouble.

The meeting with the lawyer for Melissa, Susan and Robert was most enlightening. He said the best information he could gather was that Melissa would be arrested for theft of government property. Although it did not carry a severe penalty, it was something that they could use to make things very difficult for her.

John's meeting with Simmonds was the most intriguing. He found Simmonds a bit more forthcoming than he had remembered. He told Simmonds of all the technology they had returned with would greatly benefit the world. The new engines alone were fully tested now and would open up all kinds of possibilities for the space program.

Simmonds told him of the numerous problems with which the world now coped. They set up a debriefing schedule for his command personnel. The debriefing would not take place for a least two weeks in order to let the Alphans an opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the planet and their loved ones. The decision that the Alphans be declared dead was to be reversed and their assets would be restored. John told him of the five years they had spent in space had very difficult at the beginning, but the Alphans had pulled together and contributed to their struggle to survive. He had made sure to include all the logs they kept relating to the moon's journey.

Simmonds had to admit that Koenig had pulled off a coup. He had maintained control of the base, when in reality it should have been in a shambles. Simmonds always envied John, his easy ascension through the ranks of the space program and his command ability that had become evident through their ordeal. Simmonds knew he could trust Koenig, but he was now married to Helena Russell, who was the daughter of Robert Thompson, who was a trusted friend of Senator Neil Harris. That could make things difficult for him.

"I suppose I should congratulate you, John."

John looked at Simmonds, puzzled.

"You're marriage." He said indicating his ring.

"Thank you Commissioner, I guess I didn't follow your orders when it came to Helena."

"My orders, John? I don't remember anything specific..."

"I remember it quite well."

"They weren't my orders John." Simmonds said moving away from his desk.

John followed him with his eyes. "Whose then?"

"Senator Harris." He said flatly.

"Harris." John said softly.

"Yes, the good Senator. He is a difficult man, John. You should be wary of him." Simmonds said returning to his desk.

John nodded. He thought back to what Alan had told him about his Thanksgiving visit to Miller's Bluff. He'd been suspicious of the Senator then. Things were beginning to become clearer.

John stood from his chair and leaned over the desk. "Simmonds, why did you ignore all the evidence that Victor presented on the magnetic radiation that was being created by the waste dumps?"

Simmonds didn't answer the question; he pressed the play button on his tape recorder.

He stopped the recorder. John continued to stare at the machine.

"He knew!" John shouted.

Simmonds only nodded.

John slammed his first on Simmonds desk. "How could he send all of us to an almost certain death?"

"I'm not the one to ask, John." Simmonds said.

Susan and Melissa showed up at Helena's door, ready for their excursion.

Helena closed the door behind her, joining them in the hall.

"John not back yet?" Mel asked.

"I doubt we'll see him much before dinner." Helena answered. "I'm sure he has his hands full with Simmonds.

"How'd you two do, today?" Helena asked as they walked.

"I don't want to talk about it Cake, they're going to arrest me."

"Correction, Missy, they're going to try." Susan corrected.

Mel smiled at her mother and nodded.

They went to a nearby mall and Susan delighted in buying her daughters all sorts of new things. Helena and Melissa's taste in clothes was as different as night and day. They laughed and enjoyed their time together.

As they were exiting the mall, suddenly they were greeted by Gina Peebles and her camera crew. She and Mel exchanged a hug.

"So where is that hunk of an astronaut you've fallen for, Mel?"

"At the hotel, resting up, I hope." She teased.

"What are you doing here, Gina?" Helena asked.

"I had a tip that they were after Mel so I thought I could run interference."

"After me?" Mel exclaimed.

"The warrant was to be issued today." She said.

"We'd better get back to the hotel." Helena said.

"Mind if I tag along?" Gina asked.

"Of course not, Gina. Come on." Mel said.

They found the car and returned quickly to the hotel.

John was pacing when Helena came though the door.

He crossed to her. "Is Mel with you?" He said urgently.

"She's with Alan in their room." She responded.

He looked relieved.

"You heard about the warrant." She said putting her packages aside.

"Yeah, Alan told me when I got back."

"What are we going to do, John? I can't let them arrest my sister."

He pulled her into his arms. "I know, Helena."

"Gina Peebles came back with us. She's willing to help?"

John pulled away from her. "The reporter?"

Helena nodded.

"Let's get everyone together, see what we have."

There was a knock on the door. John opened the door to Susan and Robert.

Helena took her packages from the sofa and moved them into the bedroom. Robert fixed he and Susan a drink at the bar.

"I think we could all use one of those," John said to Robert.

He fixed two more drinks.

Helena joined them and Robert handed her a drink.

She sat beside John as Robert and Susan occupied the two chairs opposite the sofa.

"So did you meet with the Commissioner, John?" Susan asked.

John nodded he wasn't sure how to begin. "How well do you know the Senator?" He asked.

"I've known him more than thirty years, why?" Robert asked.

John sighed and dove in. "Simmonds played me a tape of a conversation between he and Harris today. He knew about the radiation problem on the moon. He ignored it."

Helena sat forward, instantly, "He what?" She exclaimed.

John looked at her. "He ignored it."

"Then he's a murderer." She said with certainty.

"Can you prove that?" Robert asked.

"I don't know, that's the problem." John said looking at his glass.

They sat silent for a minute.

"What was going on up there?" Susan asked.

John looked up at her. "The whole reason I was sent up there was to get the Meta Probe launched. I wasn't told the real reason that the astronauts and others were dying. Helena discovered that it wasn't a virus infection but it was the effects of magnetic radiation that was killing people. By the time I arrived, it was too late. Victor had mentioned something too me about it but he didn't have anything concrete and he didn't like to speculate. I should have pressed Gorski for more for answers when things didn't look right."

He looked down at the floor. "If I had just paid attention."

"John, you couldn't know, they didn't tell you." Helena said, reaching for him.

"Simmonds and Harris both knew!" He exploded. "They are the ones responsible for all of this!"

Helena knew John's frustration well.

Robert sat his glass on the table and stood. "Are you sure of this, John?" He asked.

"I heard him, I don't think Simmonds would have faked that. He's trying to cover his ass too."

Robert stood and moved for the door.

"Robert, where are you going?" Susan called to him.

"I need to make a call." He said with his back to her.

"No Robert, you don't." Susan said.

He turned to face her.

"John will handle this, won't you John."

John looked at Susan. "I've got to find some proof."

Susan nodded, "We'll find it, I know we will." She said with certainty.

There was a knock at the door. Robert opened it, finding Alan and Melissa. Robert moved back to the bar. Both Alan and Melissa looked like they needed a drink.

Susan embraced her daughter, who had obviously been crying. "What's wrong, honey?"

She grabbed her mother for dear life. "I don't want to go to jail. They're talking about what will happen on the news."

Melissa rarely showed her vulnerability, but this time she was scared.

John stood and moved to her. "Don't worry Mel, we're going to get out of all this. I promise."

Helena looked at her distressed twin. "And he doesn't make promise he can't keep." She said.

Mel looked from Helena to John. She pulled herself from her mother and straightened her shoulders.

"Okay, what do we do?" She asked, pulling herself together.

"That's my girl." Susan said with a smile.

Alan shared the information he had gotten from Angela. Helena said the key for the storage for Victor's files would arrive tomorrow. They needed Sandra and possibly Maya for the search of Victor's files. John called both women, who eagerly volunteered to help find some evidence. He had agreed with Simmonds regarding the scheduling of the debriefing of all of Alpha's command personnel. The final thing was how to deal with Melissa's problem.

"Do you trust this attorney, Masters?" John asked Melissa.

"I don't usually like lawyers John. But what he said made sense."

"Okay, then we let you turn yourself in, post bail and get the hell outta here."

"The bail won't be a problem?" John asked, Susan and Robert

"I'll do anything to keep her out of jail." Robert said.

"Okay, we'll see the lawyer in the morning and see what he says."

"What if they don't let me post bail?" Mel asked taking Alan's hand.

"That's the first question we ask, love." He said squeezing her hand.

"What about Gina, John?" Helena asked.

"Let's get her up here, I think it's time we talked."

Helena dialed the bar and asked for Gina.

When she put down the phone, see turned back to John. "On her way."

Gina arrived and she agreed to help them anyway she could. She also wanted exclusive rights to the story; she had to think about her career.

John agreed to an interview.

Gina set up the interview for the next day. That would give her a little time to try and get some information regarding what the government's position was to be on the Alphans and Melissa.

She bid them goodnight and the three couples, decided on room service, they didn't want anyone to have an opportunity to arrest Mel without first seeing her lawyer. Melissa called Alex and asked if he could come and meet them in the morning.

After dinner, the three couples sat talking about just what to do next. Robert suggested that they all return to Miller's Bluff for the immediate future. From there they could direct whatever actions would be necessary for the defense they would have to mount. At least there they could have some privacy and it wasn't that far from Houston and did have a small private airport.

John considered the offer. They didn't exactly know what they would need yet, but at least it would give them a base of operation. One thing he hadn't considered was what the cost of any of this would be. He'd broached the subject with Simmonds and knew the Commissioner would keep his word about the position of the Alphans.

He told Robert that it was certainly a good idea, especially for Melissa, but he felt he'd know more tomorrow. He was to meet with Simmonds again.

They soon bid everyone goodnight and John and Helena sat alone on the sofa. John propped his feet on the coffee table and leaned back against the cushions.

"What time is your meeting with Simmonds in the morning?" Helena asked.

"Not until nine." He said moving his hand to her leg.

She covered his hand with hers.

He looked at her. "Helena, what do you think about going to Miller's Bluff?"

"I think it's a great idea, it would be good to get away and relax, even for just a few days."

"One problem, Victor's files are here."

"John, you know Sandra is very capable of finding whatever information we may need. She can handle it."

He nodded, knowing she was right. "Besides you have to figure out how we show how the good Senator fueled this fiasco." She continued.

"That could get expensive." He said.

Helena smiled and gave his hand a gentle squeeze. "Don't worry John, we'll handle it."

John looked at her. "You know we never have talked about money, we never needed to before."

Helena smiled softly, "I know, it never was important."

"Well, it may be now. We may have battle."

"We've had plenty of those and won, why should now be any different?"

"Politicians, Helena with almost limitless resources. It won't be easy or cheap."

Helena nodded her agreement. "I know John, but I have a feeling that you will show them what really happened."

"I appreciate your faith in me." He said pulling her hand to his lips.

"Always."

John stood and pulled her up to join him. He circled her waist with his arms and kissed her.

"How about a walk on the beach?" He asked, looking down at her.

"Sounds wonderful."

He took her hand and led her to the door.

On the beach they walked hand in hand, the beach had changed a bit from what they had remembered the gravity disruption caused be the Moon's departure had caused flooding in some parts of the world and the beach was different than they remembered.

They walked, enjoying the peace of the evening. There was a gentle breeze blowing and John moved his arm around her waist. They walked until they reached the public beach then retraced their path to the hotel. Neither spoke, they both needed to relax and put their thoughts together.

John stopped when the neared the hotel and turned to face Helena. She looked up into his eyes, seeing his resolve there.

"You know we all could end up in jail." He said.

Helena watched him. "You don't believe that, do you?"

He shook his head, "No, but it is a possibility."

She dropped her shoes that she had been carrying and move her hands up his chest. "They won't arrest us, John, we were the victims."

"We've still got to find the proof and I hope Victor's files have it."

"We'll find it, John, we must." Helena said, determined.

He pulled her to him and kissed her. As they parted, he bent down and picked up her shoes and slipped them on her feet.

He took her hand and they returned to their room.

John closed the door of the suite and Helena moved toward the bedroom, pausing at the door to give him an inviting smile and running the zipper of her dress down her back.

John grinned and followed her, closing the door to the bedroom behind him.

The next morning he watched as Helena slept beside him. He traced the fading red mark on her left arm that remained from the removal of her birth control implant. He traced the mark with his finger and she stirred.

He moved his foot against hers and he moved his finger against her arm again. Her eyes blinked open.

She took a deep breath, sighed and looked up at him.

"Morning." He said softly.

"Hi." She said with sleepy eyes.

"Is your arm still sore." He asked quietly.

She shook her head against her pillow and closed her eyes.

He kissed her cheek and moved from the bed. She rolled toward him and grabbed his pillow and went back to sleep.

He watched her as he entered the bathroom for a shower.

Half an hour later, Helena entered the bathroom. He was just finishing shaving. "Sleepy head." He said as she moved to stand behind him, circling his waist with her arms.

"Someone kept me up late last night, so I deserved a little extra shut eye."

He smiled at her in the mirror.

"Hey, could you do me a favor today?" He asked.

She nodded against his back.

"I'm sure your father likes boxers," he said running his finger around the band of his shorts. "But I would prefer something else. You think you could pick some up for me?"

Helena laughed lightly and moved her hands down the front of his boxers. "Okay, but I won't be able to do this, anymore."

John closed his eyes at her touch and drew a breath.

"See the advantage." She said with a smile.

He nodded as he held his razor.

She removed her hands and kissed his shoulder. "But if you prefer, I'll take care of it." She said leaving him to finish his shaving.

He looked at himself in the mirror and finished his face. 'Maybe they weren't so bad after all.' He thought.

Their pleasant morning turned into a long day. John began his meeting with Simmonds at nine. Helena met with Melissa's attorney to learn more about his strategy. Susan and Robert also attended. Alan was off to meet with Sandra regarding the files and how they were indexed, since he had cleared Victor's lab. Helena called Angela Verdeshi to extend an invitation to her family to join them for dinner that night.

John arrived back at the suite around five. He found Helena and her mother sitting on the sofa, talking.

He moved to sit beside Helena, kissing her cheek as he did.

"Hi." He said settling beside her.

"Long day?" Susan asked.

John nodded. "I'd forgotten how difficult it is to get anything done here."

"Everyone okay?" Helena asked.

"Everyone seems to be fine, enjoying themselves." He said looking at her.

"A nice vacation, I think we were due for one." She continued with a chuckle.

John got the feeling he'd interrupted something. He touched Helena's knee and stood. "If you ladies will excuse me, I'm going to clean up before dinner."

He moved away from the two women, giving Helena's shoulder a gentle squeeze as he passed her.

Susan watched him as he left them. "He's a good man, Helena." She said.

Helena smiled at her mother's compliment and nodded.

"So will he be all right about this?" Susan asked her daughter.

She nodded. "Well, money is not something we've ever really talked about, but I know he's concerned about what we have to do to fix this mess."

"It is that, honey. You tell John, not to worry about anything, we'll handle whatever we need to, that's why we're here, to help."

Helena got up and moved to her mother, she sat on the arm of her chair and embraced her. "You always have."

Susan leaned against her daughter, smiling

When they parted, they stood. Helena followed her to the door and hugged her. "Tell Daddy, thanks."

Susan smiled and nodded and slipped out the door.

Helena closed the door and leaned against it.

She moved toward the bedroom door and opened it slowly. John was just coming out of the bathroom. He looked at her as she entered.

"I got the distinct feeling I interrupted something."

She crossed to him and he took her in his arms. "Everything okay?"

She nodded against his shoulder. "Fine. I just wanted to have a talk with Mom."

"About?" He asked.

"Making sure we have what we need to defend Mel and protect you."

He closed his eyes and kissed the top of her head. "Money."

She laughed lightly and nodded again.

She pulled away from him, placing her hands on his chest and looked up into his eyes.

"Your right about this ordeal not being cheap, you can guess what the lawyer is getting per hour."

John chuckled and smiled. "I can imagine."

He looked at her seriously, "Is this going to be a problem for us?"

"No John, my family..." She corrected. "Our family will stand behind you and I and give us all the support we need."

He reached to touch her hair and moved his hand to caress her cheek. "That's good to know."

He pulled her to him for a sweet kiss. Her hands went around his waist.

As they parted, she ran her finger around the band of his briefs. "I see you found your underwear."

John laughed and looked down at her hand at his hip. "More comfortable." He said.

Helena moved her hand to his face, touching his lips. "I still like the boxers." She said teasing him.

He smiled, "Weekends, okay?"

She considered his deal for a moment. "Okay." And moved toward the door.

"Oh John, Gina called and said she'd be ready about eight o'clock tonight for your interview."

"Where?" He called from the bathroom.

"I told her we'd just have it here."

"That'll be fine, did you let everyone know?" He asked.

She stuck her head in the bathroom door. "Yes, Commander."

He shook his head and smiled. "Sorry, old habits."

She smiled at her husband and left him.

Helena rounded up everyone and at five-thirty they were all seated in the living area of the suite.

"John, at least your command conferences have gotten more comfortable." Alan said handing him and drink.

Helena smiled at Alan's comment. 'He's right...' she thought.

"So what's the verdict with Masters?" John asked.

"He was going to meet with the prosecutor today and try and cut a deal." Robert stated. We should be hearing from him soon."

John nodded. "Sandra?"

"She's all set John, I had an index of Victor's files in my personal discs. She should have everything she needs. Helena gave me the key for the storage locker this morning."

John nodded again.

"And you?" Susan asked.

John began. "Simmonds is willing to help us to the extent he will, he realizes that we were the victims of the situation. But he'll be wanting something in return I'm sure."

Helena looked at John. "Just what do you suppose?"

"I'm not sure, yet. He's a shrewd man. It'll be something important to him."

"Perhaps a seat in the Senate." Alan volunteered.

John looked across at his friend. "Maybe."

The phone rang across the room. Alan crossed to pick it up. "Hello."

Alan turned and looked over at Melissa. "Hello Alex."

She moved over to where he stood.

"She's right here. Hang on."

He handed her the phone and she pointed to the bedroom. Alan moved into the bedroom and picked up the extension.

"Hi Alex. Alan's on with me." Melissa said.

Alex told her what he'd found out. The conversation was brief.

Mel and Alan both returned to their places on the loveseat.

"So?" Helena asked. "Was he able to cut a deal?"

Melissa nodded and took Alan's hand. "He said he pick us up at nine o'clock tomorrow morning, then we'll go to the Federal Courthouse and I'll turn myself in."

"And..."John asked.

"They've agreed to let her go in Masters' custody, in order to prepare her defense." Alan finished.

John nodded, he still wasn't sure if he trusted Masters, but he was all they had.

Helena could tell Melissa was nervous about the whole situation.

"What about leaving town?" Susan asked.

"As long as Masters knows where she is, I'm sure it'll be okay." Alan said. "I'm sure they'll take her passport, too."

"Like that's ever stopped her!" Robert exclaimed.

His laugh broke the tension they were all feeling and they all laughed at Robert's comment.

"Now, what about this interview John?" Alan asked.

"Well I figure that Gina can give us some help in finding out what is being planned then we'll know more. I'm not going to give them much to go on. I hope I can win some public support."

Alan nodded. He had confidence in John; he always handled the press well, and Gina was a friend.

There was a knock on the door. Alan crossed to open it. Angela, Guido and Tony Verdeschi stood in the hall with Maya.

Melissa stood when she saw Angela and went to her, hugging her. "It's so good to see you." She said.

Angela returned her hug and Melissa led her family to join the others. John and Helena both stood to greet their friends. With the new arrivals, Alan suggested they move downstairs for dinner.

Helena had made reservations for them at the patio restaurant.

The dinner was again a lively affair with the addition of the Versdeschi's and Maya. Susan and Robert were fascinated with Maya and her abilities. Susan laughed as they related the joke that Helena and Maya had played on John. Susan suggested that John should be careful if Melissa and Helena tried it on him again.

As time for the interview approached they returned to the suite. Gina knocked on the door, precisely at eight o'clock. She and her cameraman set up in the living room.

Gina and John spoke briefly before the interview.

"You're right John, they've started the investigation, they're hoping you will be the fall guy."

"Well let's see if you and I can put a stop to some of it, Gina."

John was glad to have the opportunity to thank the people who had made their return possible.

When they were ready, John sat with Helena on the sofa, facing the camera. Alan and Melissa sat on the loveseat next to them

Gina was opposite them and the rest found places to sit behind the camera.

"Tonight we are talking with Commander John Koenig regarding the recent return of the residents of Moonbase Alpha. Thank you Commander, for the opportunity to speak with you. I'm sure the world is interested in knowing about your ordeal in space."

"Thank you Gina, it is good to be home."

"Can you tell just what happened to cause the Moon to leave orbit so violently?"

'She gets right to the point.' John thought.

"I was assigned to Alpha in order to get the Meta Probe launched. A chain of events had already occurred that put the base and the moon in jeopardy."

"And what was that?"

"A problem had developed with the radioactive waste dumps. It had been discovered by Professor Victor Bergman."

"And this problem was responsible for the moon's abrupt departure?"

"Yes it was. By the time I arrived, there was no way to stop it; it was inevitable. The moon was blown out with such force that it wasn't possible for us to return." He said taking Helena's hand.

"Now there has been a significant lapse of time since you left but of course only seven months have passed here on Earth. Why is that?"

"I'm not a physics teacher, but I can tell you we have been through several time warps during our journey. It's a miracle that we could return at all. Without Dr. Peter Rockwell enhancements of the Ion rocket, we wouldn't be sitting here."

"There of course, have been rumors of the Space Commission being blamed for the terrible environmental catastrophes that have occurred. What do you know about that?"

"I was only put there to get Meta launched. I don't get into the political games of the Space Commission."

"So you have no comment on the Space Commission."

John smiled a bit. "No comment."

"Is there anything else you'd like to tell our audience, Commander?"

"Yes there is. I would like to personally thank Melissa Thompson, Tony Cellini, Diana Morris, Guido Verdeshi, Peter Rockwell and Dr. Robert Shaw for the sacrifices they made in order to effect our rescue. It was an extraordinarily dangerous mission to undertake and one that was frowned upon by all except the families of the residents of Alpha. I hope that people all over the world will understand and thank them for what they did in coming to our rescue. On behalf of all the Alphans, I thank them."

The camera slowly paned over to reveal Melissa sitting with Alan, then came back to John.

"Thank you Commander, for joining us and telling us the truth about the moon's breakaway from Earth."

"Thank you Gina, I hope that this will help everyone come to understand what really happened to Moonbase Alpha."

"I'm sure it will Commander. Thank you again."

With a quick smile Gina was through. Her cameraman moved from the camera.

"Nice Gina. Wanta do your reaction shots, now?" He said.

"Sure Eddie, then we can go edit."

He began to move the camera behind where John sat.

"Do you need us any longer, Gina?" Helena asked.

"No, I just have to do some reaction shots for continuity."

John nodded and he and Helena moved from the sofa and joined the others in the other part of the room.

Alan slapped him on the back. "Well done John, that should give them something to think about."

John smiled at his friend. "Let's hope so."

Angela Verdeschi moved over to him. "Thank you John, let's hope they listen to what you were saying." She said quietly as they watched Gina finish her shots.

Gina finished her production quickly at Eddie wrapped up there equipment. Gina joined the group. "I should have this ready for the morning show." She said with a smile. "Thank John, you certainly are at ease in front of camera."

Alan laughed. "He's had a lot of practice."

Gina nodded. "That's right you were the press liaison for Meta, weren't you."

John nodded, remembering one prior assignment.

"Well you certainly made it easy on me. Thanks again. Be sure and tune in tomorrow morning." Gina said moving to Melissa, giving her a hug and Alan a wink.

With that she was gone. The others quickly departed as well. Leaving John, Helena, Alan and Melissa alone.

"Now what about tomorrow morning?" Helena said looking at Melissa.

"I wish I knew." Melissa said standing beside her.

Helena slipped her arm around her sister and pulled her to her. "It'll be okay, Mel."

Mel nodded and leaned against her sister. "You want me to come with you?"

"I think Mom and Daddy are coming."

"Helena, I need you with me tomorrow." John said.

John and Alan both moved to Mel's side.

John stood in front of Mel and looked down at her, taking her chin in his hand tilting her head up. "You'll be fine. Alan won't let anything happen to you. And neither will we."

'I see now why Helena fell in love with him.' She thought. "Thanks John."

Alan moved next to her and slipped his arm around her. "Come on love, I think it's about time for a nightcap."

Helena kissed her sister's cheek and said goodnight to both of them.

John returned to the sofa and Helena joined him.

She leaned her head on his shoulder.

"Why do I have the feeling all hell is about break loose." He said moving his hand to her knee.

Helena laughed lightly, "Maybe because it will as soon as that interview hits the television."

"You think Mel will be all right?" He asked.

Helena nodded. "She'll be fine as long as they keep their end of the bargain."

"That's what worries me. What do you know about Senator Harris?"

Helena turned to him. "My folks have known him as long as I can remember, he's a good family friend."

"But can he be trusted? Alan told me about meeting him at Miller's Bluff. He didn't seem to trust the guy."

"I've known him most of my life, John, I don't think he'd want to hurt any of us. He was very fond of Melissa."

John nodded at his wife, but he wasn't convinced, something bad was gnawing at the back of his mind.

Across town, Gerald Simmonds sat in his dark office. He was copying the tape that he played for John of his conversation with Harris. He wanted to be prepared for the Senate investigation that had begun. He majority of his files would be taken and he had told John that he'd better not waste anytime protecting the information that he'd brought back with him from Alpha.

The next morning they were up early, John insisted in getting over to the Simmonds' office well before the Commissioner would get in.

He took her to the facility where they were storing all the material from Alpha. He specifically wanted her to get all of her research regarding the mechanical heart, which she had perfected. He had made sure that the engineers had gotten everything regarding the new engines and the neutrino transmission devices. He didn't want everything they had to fall into the hands of the Senate Investigators. He knew Alan had all the files regarding the upgrades they had made to the Eagles.

They completed their tasks, loading the crates of information onto a truck.

Melissa and Alan, rode with Alex Masters to the Federal Courthouse. Robert and Susan followed in their car. Their footsteps echoed through the marble hallways of the building. Melissa held Alan's hand tightly as they walked.

In the Federal Marshall's office, Melissa turned herself in to the U.S. Attorney. They completed all the usual paperwork and took her mugshot and fingerprinted her. She turned over her passport and met with the prosecutor, along with Alex Masters.

"Miss Thompson, my name is Catherine Reynolds, you understand that the evidence against you is strong. We are gathering testimony from all the parties involved in this fiasco."

"Evidence. I will admit to organizing this whole thing. What evidence do you possibly need?"

"You freely admit to the charges against you?"

"Yes, on the advice of my attorney."

"I see." She said turning back to her desk.

"I just wanted to help out the people on Alpha, the government wasn't doing a thing to help them. They could have been saved a lot sooner, but no one wanted to."

"You acted alone, with no assistance."

"Not exactly but it was I that made it happen."

"This may simplify things greatly."

"Meaning?" Alex spoke up.

"We could make a deal on a plea bargain."

"A plea bargain! Alex you said that you had worked this out." Melissa said.

"I told you I had arranged for you not to be held prior to trial, Melissa."

"They're going to try me, for what, bringing back victims of a disaster?"

"You have to understand, Ms. Thompson, the devastating events that took place after the moon's departure has caused many problems the world over. You will be caught in the middle of that."

"Why should I? I played no part in the explosion, I only went to save my sister!"

"Then will you agree to assist us in finding the person or persons who made this disaster happen?" The woman said.

"I already know, who." Melissa said.

Alex turned to her. "This meeting is over." He said abruptly and stood. "She is free to go." He stated.

"For the moment."

Melissa followed Alex to the door.

"Miss Thompson." The woman said as she moved toward her, handing Mel a business card. "We do want the same thing. You do not have to become the scapegoat for all of this."

Melissa nodded and took the card.

Alex pulled her out of the room and down the hall stopping just before they reached Alan and her parents.

"Just what were you doing in there?" Alex asked.

"I thought we had a deal! You said it was all worked out! What is going on Alex!" Melissa shouted.

Melissa's shout caught Alan's attention and he moved to them.

"We do have a deal but you can just forget that now."

"What's the matter, Mel?" Alan asked moving beside her.

"I'm firing my lawyer, Alan." She stated.

Alex looked at both of them. "They'll lock you up, without me."

"I get the feeling, that you are no longer needed, Mr. Masters." She said looking at him hard.

She took Alan's hand and headed for her parents.

"Melissa." Robert said. "What have you done!"

"He lied, Daddy, he's lied to all of us." Mel said to her father and mother.

Robert looked at Alex as he stood in the hallway.

Alex squared his shoulders, turned from them and walked away.

Robert moved away from Susan, to follow Alex.

"Daddy, no!" Melissa said taking his arm as he moved past her.

He looked at her. "Mel, we have to have him, we need his help."

"No we don't. He lied there was no deal."

Robert looked at her. "How do you know?" He asked.

"They don't want me, they want the Senator."

"Neil?" Robert looked stunned.

Meanwhile, John and Helena were busy storing files in a safe place, her house. The lease was up and Melissa had told the real estate company to handle it, then the breakaway occurred. No one was interested in renting property. Helena had always hidden a spare key. She used it to unlock the door. John carried two boxes into the living room, setting them in the middle of the room in the empty house.

Helena moved through the rooms enjoying the feeling of her home again. John smiled as he watched her.

"There's no place like home?" He said.

She turned and smiled. "Something like that. I just never thought I'd be back here."

He moved to her and embraced her. "We're home now. Would you like to move back in?"

Again it was a subject that was premature. "What about your place in Houston?" She asked looking up at him.

"I like it here. Good memories." He said with a smile.

She returned his smile and brushed his lips with hers. "Charmer." She said moving away from him. "Come on we have work to do."

He sighed and followed her out the door.

John moved yet another box into the room and leaned against the stack he'd made. Helena followed him carrying two bottles of water they'd purchased from a vending machine on the base.

"How about a break." She said.

He nodded and accepted a bottle.

She moved past him to the open the porch door and ventured outside. It, too, was empty but the was a bench built against one of the railings.

Helena sat and looked toward the water, sipping her water.

John joined her, leaned back against the railing, stretching his legs out.

"So now that we've stolen all the information about Alpha, what do we do with it?"

"We haven't stolen anything, we are safeguarding the history of Alpha."

"And some valuable technology." She added.

He looked over at her. "Well, that too."

She laughed. "And I thought I could keep you out of trouble."

"I think you've just become an accessory."

Helena shook her head and looked up.

"What?" John asked.

"Did you hear something?" She asked.

John sat forward and shook his head. He was on his feet and headed back inside. She was right behind him.

As they came through the patio door, Alan walked in the front door.

"We thought we might find you here." He said looking at the stack of small crates in the middle of the room.

"Are you moving in?" Mel asked.

"Not exactly." John answered.

"What is all this?" Robert asked.

"A few things that I didn't want the Senate investigators to get their hands on."

"Already?" Susan asked.

John nodded. "They came first thing this morning. Gina told me last night. She has some excellent sources of information."

"Where'd you get the pick up?" Alan asked.

"I sorta borrowed it."

"I don't want to hear anymore." Susan said putting her hand up. "Is there much left to move?"

"Not a lot."

"Come on John, I'll give you a hand." Alan said slipping off his jacket.

They two men returned to the truck and retrieved the remaining crates setting them alongside the others.

They finished their job quickly as Susan decided it was time for lunch. She retrieved her cel phone from her purse.

"Pizza anyone?" She asked.

Alan gave her a grin. "No anchovies."

"Helena? Is there anyplace nearby that delivers?"

Helena thought for a moment. "There used to be a great little place not far from here. Let me see if I can find a phone book."

Helena moved into the kitchen and quickly found a phonebook. She pointed out the Italian restaurant to her mother who arranged for the food.

John and Alan decided to return the truck and retrieve the rental car from the base where they stored the materials from Alpha.

As they returned the borrowed truck, John explained to Alan that he had indeed had borrowed the vehicle from one of the guards at the base. They returned to the house with the rental car to find that Robert and the girls had created a makeshift living room with the crates and the pizza had arrived.

As they all sat down to eat, John asked the question that hung in the air.

"What happened with the U.S. Attorney?" He said taking another bite of his slice.

Alan looked over at Mel with raised eyebrows.

"I fired my attorney." She said simply.

"What!" Helena exclaimed.

"He lied to me, he'd didn't have a deal with the U.S. Attorney, he didn't have anything."

"So what do you plan to do now?" John asked.

"I think the U.S. Attorney will be of help. She's after the Senator as well."

"Do you think she was telling the truth?" Susan asked.

"I going to find out." Melissa said with determination.

"Melissa, we can't just go on assumptions. We still don't have any proof. Let's hope Sandra finds something." John said

"I'm going back to meet with the attorney, I can cut my own deal."

"What makes you think you can do that?" Robert asked.

Melissa looked at her father and reached into her pocket and produced a business card. "She gave me her card. I think I'll give her a call."

She reached over and picked up Susan's phone. Referencing the card she dialed the number. She was put though quickly to Ms. Reynolds.

"Ms. Thompson. What can I do for you?" She asked.

"Ms. Reynolds, I would like to speak with you this afternoon, if you are available."

"Of course, when can you be here?"

"An hour?"

"Fine, I will see you then."

Melissa pressed the key on the phone and disconnected the call.

"See, easy."

"What if they have the Federal Marshal's waiting for you?" Alan asked.

Melissa smiled at him. "Then they'll have a fight on their hands, won't they."

An hour later, Melissa arrived at the U.S. Attorney's office. She settled in her chair in front of Ms. Reynolds.

"You said you wanted to talk." She said sitting behind her desk.

"First, I need some assurances."

"Assurances?"

"That no action will be taken against me or those who helped me or my family."

"And in return?"

"I'll give you the name of the person who is responsible for the moon's departure."

The attorney leaned forward to her desk. "Only if you have irrefutable evidence."

"I do."

Ms. Reynolds met Melissa's stare. "I'm listening." She said.

Melissa related to her the story of putting together the people who assisted in the rescue and the discussion she had with Commissioner Simmonds. She told her about the tape that Simmonds' had played for John.

"And just who was the Commissioner speaking with, Ms. Thompson?"

"Senator Neil Harris."

Reynolds looked her hard. "Neil Harris, the champion of the Space Program?"

"Yes and my family's friend."

"I see. When can we expect the tape."

"What do you mean?"

"We will need the tape in order to corroborate your story, Ms. Thompson."

"That may take some time. I will have to speak with John and see if the Commissioner will produce the tape."

"I sincerely hope for your sake, he does. If he doesn't you will have to stand trial for theft of government property."

"And if he won't produce the tape to you?"

"I'm afraid you will be taken into custody to await trial."

"So we have a deal." Melissa said hopeful.

"Yes, Ms. Thompson, we have a deal, you may remain free for two weeks so you may produce the tape which will prove your story."

"Two weeks!?"

"If you do not produce the tape at the end of that period, you will taken into custody and then soon after you will be tried."

"You make it sound like I won't be able to succeed."

Ms. Reynolds moved from behind the desk and moved beside Mel. "Ms. Thompson."

"Melissa." Mel corrected, feeling she could trust this woman.

"Melissa. There are forces at work here that you know nothing about. You made the right decision, getting rid of Masters. He's trouble, Harris' boy."

"Just how long have you been after the good Senator?" Mel asked.

"Longer than you think."

"Why?"

"He's in more trouble than you can imagine."

Mel smiled. "I'm always good with trouble." She said.

Melissa walked out of Ms. Reynolds office and Alan rose from the chair to meet her. She moved into his embrace.

"Everything okay?" He asked.

She nodded against him. "Told you it would be."

He took her hand and they returned to the hotel to meet they others. During the drive, she told Alan of the deal she'd made.

They returned to the hotel and met up with the others. They were all gathered around the television to watch another replay of John's interview with Gina.

John was finishing his conversation with Simmonds on the telephone. He replaced the receiver and joined the others.

"Well?" Helena asked as he stood beside her.

"He's not happy, would have liked to be advised of the interview."

"But you didn't say anything about the Commission." Alan said.

"I think he wanted me to defend him and I didn't."

Helena moved her arm around his waist and leaned against him. "You did what you needed to, he can defend himself."

"The investigators have taken his files and they are going through the material we brought back from Alpha."

"They don't waste any time, do they." Alan stated. "Good thing Gina gave you a head's up."

John nodded. He was fairly sure that the materials he pulled would be safe at Helena's house. They had stopped at the real estate office, terminated their contract and gotten the keys back.

"How'd it go with the prosecutor?" He asked.

"I'm here, aren't I." Melissa said with a smile. "Actually, I have two weeks to produce some evidence that Harris was the person behind all this, if I don't they will lock me up."

"Well, we're not about to let that happen, now are we?" John said with a smile.

"No." Alan said.

"What evidence are you talking about, Mel?" Susan asked.

"I told them about the tape John heard of the Commissioner and Simmonds, she seemed very interested in that."

John's eyes narrowed. "But I don't have a copy."

Melissa smiled at her brother-in-law. "You will, two weeks is a long time, John."

"I hope so."

With that they adjourned to dinner again and made a joint decision to return to Miller's Bluff for the next two weeks. They could deal with whatever was thrown at them from there. It was fairly isolated, so the press would have difficulty locating them. They all agreed to leave the next morning. Susan had been thinking ahead and had made reservations for the flight back to Texas. Once there they could sort out what they needed to do.

Dorothy Burton

April, 2000