The Protector-Hunted

by

Julie O

  

Chapter 31

Ally arrived in her office directly from the airport and checked in with Donna, who came into the office a few minutes later.

"No progress on Billy. I expect we'll get a hit soon," stated Donna. "By the way, the trip must have been good, you look like the old you again!"

"My visit with Andrea was quite enlightening," replied Ally. She then went on to tell Donna her idea for the dummy.

"So, we let Billy take a pop at the dummy?" asked Donna.

"Exactly. Spec-Ops will be staking out the area and that should give them enough time to nail the bastard," replied Ally. "I'm e-mailing Steve and Robert with the idea. If they don't have someone who can make the dummy, I have the addresses of several special effects firms that make them for movies and TV. I found them on the net while I was on the plane."

"Sometime I'd like to meet this woman who inspired you and thank her," remarked Donna. "You're back to normal."

"She's something special," agreed Ally.

After Donna left, Ally called the Director's office and talked to Mrs. Reynolds.

"He's been expecting your call, Agent Burns. He said when you finish getting updated on your cases to come up here," stated Mrs. Reynolds, in a pleasant voice.

"Thank you. I'll be up there in ten minutes.

Ally arrived outside the Director's office and was shown right in.

"Please have a seat, Agent Burns," ordered the Director. He was reading a report and he didn't look up as Ally walked in.

Ally nodded and sat down in the leather chair across from his desk. She still couldn't imagine anyone calling him Theodore.

"So, was it a fruitful meeting?" he asked as he sat up. He then leaned back slightly in his chair. His glasses were perched on the end of his nose.

"Yes, sir. I really appreciate the fact that you introduced me to Andrea," answered Ally.

"I should have done it earlier," he stated.

Ally took a deep breath. "Sir, I have to ask you one thing."

He nodded, as if he knew what she was about to ask him.

"As you know, Beth told me about her transformation. Why haven't you told Andrea and Beth about each other?" asked Ally.

He looked back at Ally in silence and took off his glasses. Ally couldn't tell what he was thinking.

"To be honest, I don't know. The fact that Beth's transformation is a secret isn't a sufficient answer. I think I wanted to give Beth her privacy. When Beth was transformed she understood that it meant a cut-off from her original family. I've been keeping an eye on her and had hoped she had accepted her situation."

"Beth accepts who she is, however that doesn't change the fact that she still mourns the loss of her family, even if she understands the reasons why. Establishing contact with her grandmother would be good for both of them. After all, Beth is following Andrea into the family business."

The Director nodded. "You're right."

"I'll be glad to break the news to both of them," offered Ally.

He cracked a very slight smile. "Can you find room in your schedule?"

That was the closest thing to a joke the Director ever made.

Ally smiled back. "It would be an honor to do so, both Beth and Andrea mean a lot to me."

He nodded.

"I'll tell Maggie and Steve first, although I doubt if they'll object," added Ally. "Thank you."

The Director nodded and watched as Ally departed.

 

Chapter 32

Ally returned to her office and was about to call Maggie when Jack called.

"Ally, I've got some information on that reporter who was snooping around here before the stakeout," stated Jack.

"Great! What's his name?" asked Ally, as she grabbed a pen.

"His name is Ron Matthews. He's written articles for several local papers and magazines. I'm sorry I didn't pass this information on sooner" replied Jack. "I'm e-mailing you a full description."

"Thanks. I'll pass the information on to our research department."

"Our public affairs department did inform him we were working on a case involving transgendered youth. However they didn't give him any details. Do you think he's involved?" asked Jack.

"Maybe not directly. I'll call you back after we run a background check on him," replied Ally.

Ally printed out a copy of Jack's e-mail and grabbed her jacket; even in summer Michelle's office was freezing.

"I'm surprised that the cold fronts leaving this department doesn't cause thunderstorms in the hallway," quipped Ally to Michelle.

"Who says they don't?" replied Michelle, with a laugh. "The computers work better when it's cool."

Ally handed her the e-mail. "I'm not sure what you'll find. I just have a feeling that he's somehow involved in the Arlington shooting."

"I'll run a check on him. I should have it done by tomorrow. By the way, great job, Donna's party was fantastic!"

"I just feel sorry for all the hangovers I caused," replied Ally.

"I wouldn't worry about that."

Ally nodded. "I'll see you later."

"Okay, Ally. Good bye."

Ally walked back towards her office and stopped. Instead she headed over to Maggie's office.

"Knock-knock," said Ally, as she stood outside Maggie's office.

Maggie looked up from her desk and smiled. "This is a pleasant surprise! What brings you over to this neck of the woods?"

"I have something to talk to you in private about," replied Ally.

Maggie waved Ally in, and she closed the door behind her. She then told Maggie about her visit with Andrea. When Ally finished, Maggie sat there in silence.

"I've seen the names of Andrea and Lars Carlson in the agency's history files, but I never put them and Beth together. So much for being a top sleuth," remarked Maggie.

"It's a small world," stated Ally softly.

"I agree with you that Beth should be given an opportunity to meet Andrea. I know that Beth loves Steve and I, but she still has some unresolved issues to deal with," continued Maggie.

"I know all about that," added Ally.

Maggie smiled. "Why don't you come over for dinner tomorrow night? We can tell her afterwards."

"I'd like that. You're not angry with me are you?" asked Ally in a concerned voice.

Maggie shook her head. "Why would I be angry with you? If anything, I should thank you. You've done so much for Beth."

"Thanks. She means a lot to me," replied Ally. "What time tomorrow?"

"Seven is good. Steve just got a new grill and can't wait to play with it."

"Carol has a great new salad that she's been wanting to share with you," replied Ally.

"Sounds good," stated Maggie.

Ally stood up. "By the way, is Steve in the office? I want to see if he got an e-mail I sent him concerning the Billy case."

"He should be in his office," replied Carol. "He sent me a copy of your e-mail. I like your idea."

"Thanks," stated Ally as she left.

Ally walked down the hall to Steve's office. Unlike many of the regular agents, Ally felt at home in the Spec-Ops department. She had proven herself to them in the field and that's all that mattered to them.

Steve was sitting at his desk when Ally arrived.

"Hey, it's the puppet mistress!" he quipped.

"Do you think it's feasible?" asked Ally, as she entered and sat down.

"Yes, very much so. We've done things with mannequins before, but nothing like this," replied Steve.

"How long will it take to make?" asked Ally.

"Only a week. We have a company under contract for these sorts of things. I've taken the liberty of contacting them. They'll have a rep here tomorrow to meet with us."

"Cool. What time?" asked Ally.

"Eight. After the meeting, she'll need Kelly for the rest of the day.

"I'll tell Kelly to dress comfortably," replied Ally.

Steve nodded. "By the way, Maggie just called me. So, what's Andrea Carlson like? I read her file a few years ago. She sounds remarkable."

"Remarkable, that's a good word. So you're cool with it too?" asked Ally.

"Yes. Maggie and I have talked about this sort of the thing, and how we could go about it. You solved our problem for us."

Ally nodded. "I'd better get back to work. Where will the meeting be?"

"I've reserved a room. Just meet us here. Remind Kelly that since she's junior she needs to bring the doughnuts!"

Ally laughed. "I will, any requests?"

"Chocolate, with sprinkles," replied Steve, rubbing his stomach.

"I'll tell her, see you tomorrow."

 

Chapter 33

The next morning Ally, Kelly, and Steve sat down and waited for the woman from the special effects company to arrive

"Good job, Kelly," stated Steve as he pulled a doughnut out of the pink box sitting in the middle of the table.

"You weren't kidding about the sprinkles!" remarked Kelly to Ally.

"Hmmm…doughnuts," stated Steve, in his best Homer Simpson voice.

In spite of herself Ally laughed.

"So, they can make a duplicate of me?" asked Kelly.

"Yes," replied Steve.

"But won't Billy know that he's been set up when there's no blood or anything like that?" asked Kelly

"As soon as he shoots, my team will zero in on him. We'll try to take him alive, but I guarantee that he won't get a second shot off," stated Steve, as he took another bite of the doughnut.

A few minutes later, Cynthia, the representative from the special effects company arrived with her team. It was obvious that they all knew Steve and he made the introductions.

"So, what you're looking for is a double for Kelly? That won't be hard," stated Cynthia.

"Yes, but it must look accurate. The shooter will be looking at it through a scope," said Steve.

"Where will the double be located?" asked Cynthia.

"It will in be a van, sitting down. We plan on allowing the shooter to see the double as the side door slides open. The double will be the only blond in the van, and we're counting on the shooter remembering what Kelly looked like," stated Ally.

"Good. Do you want the double to be able to move?" asked Cynthia. "We could rig it so that the head turns slightly away as the door opens. That way he will only get a quick look at the front of the face."

Steve nodded his approval. "Just as long as it looks natural. We want him to take the bait."

"The servos we use today are very smooth. I promise that he'll be fooled," replied Cynthia.

"Okay, go with the servo. When will it be ready?" asked Steve.

"A week," replied Cynthia.

"That sounds good," replied Ally.

"Okay, Kelly, we need to get started on your doppelganger. This shouldn't take more than a few hours," stated Cynthia.

"We'll leave you for now. If you need anything let me know," stated Steve.

"I will. It's good to be working with you again," replied Cynthia.

Ally followed Steve out of the room. They walked into his office and sat down.

"You're sure that Billy will strike next month?" asked Steve.

"Yes, you'll have to trust me on that," replied Ally.

Steve cracked a small smile, as if to say, "I understand."

"I want this guy bad," stated Ally.

"We'll get him. I'll be using my number one team. You know most of them, you were with two of them on the Simon raid," stated Steve.

"Will Madison and Tom be there too?" asked Ally.

"Of course!"

"I want in on the arrest," stated Ally firmly.

"I knew you would. The plan is to have the area surrounded. You can be with the second team in the MCU."

The MCU was the mobile command unit. The agency had several and they were disguised to look like everyday trucks or recreational vehicles.

"Good," replied Ally.

"We'll have sensors that will pinpoint where the shot comes from. If he shows up, he won't get away," reassured Steve.

"What about the local police?" asked Ally.

"Depends on the department. If it's Arlington again, I don't see any problems. We've done a few things with them in the past. I'd worry about one of the smaller departments. They sometimes get in the way. Don't worry; I'll make sure it goes smoothly. I'll even let them get credit for the arrest," stated Steve.

"I just hope the bastard waits until after Donna's wedding," smiled Ally.

"That would be nice. Beth is really looking forward to the wedding."

"I know how she feels. Well, I need to get back to the office. Thanks for setting up everything with Cynthia," stated Ally, as she stood up.

"Hey, no problem. It was a good excuse to get some doughnuts," joked Steve.

 

Chapter 34

As Ally arrived in the office, Donna ran up to her. "We just made contact!"

"You sure?" asked Ally, as she quickly followed Donna into the operations center.

"His chat room name is Billy87. He also set off Cathleen's program with six okays," replied Donna excitedly.

"Is he still online?" asked Ally anxiously.

"No, he came in the room and talked for a few minutes and then left. He said he had to go to work, but that he'd be back in the afternoon," stated Donna.

"I wish Kelly was here, but she's getting copied," remarked Ally.

"He was smooth," stated Joe. "I got the feeling that he was checking me out."

"Alright, keep to the same schedule with Tommy/Tammy. I want to be notified immediately should he come back in. Also be alert for him coming back into the room under another name. Remember he's hunting us," stated Ally.

Joe and Donna nodded. They both knew the seriousness of the situation.

 

Chapter 35

Ally called Robert and let him know that they had made first contact. She then checked her messages and saw one from Michelle. She immediately picked up her phone and called her.

"Good morning, Michelle. What did you find out?" asked Ally.

"He's really a reporter. He worked at several local papers, and has been a free lance for the past three years. There is something interesting in his file, which might relate to your case: he's been seen at meetings of several paramilitary organizations and several hate groups, mostly neo-nazi type. From what we've gathered, he's been trying to get into one of these groups in order to write an article, " reported Michelle.

"Anything else?" asked Ally.

"I'm sending you the whole file. It should be in your hands momentarily," replied Michelle.

Ally heard a knock at her door and saw one of Michelle's computer techs standing outside her office. She waved him in, and took the file from him.

"Nice timing, it just arrived. Thanks," replied Ally.

"Good hunting," stated Michelle.

"Thanks."

Ally hung up the phone and reached around to her fridge. She pulled out a can of Diet Coke and opened it up. The file on Ron Matthews was mostly routine. It contained copies of his articles. Mostly it was fluff – light human-interest articles for a variety of local publications. However, there were several articles that focused on groups fighting the downfall of society. These were on groups fighting against gay marriage, abortion rights, anti-gun laws, immigrant rights, and the like.

Ally read the articles and was unimpressed. Ron was an average writer and reporter. His articles offered no real insight into the groups or the individuals who join them. Most of the information in the articles could be gathered off the net in twenty minutes. Ally debated whether Ron's articles were so lightweight because he was a poor investigator, or because he couldn't gain the trust of these groups.

Ally then began to wonder if Billy used Ron, in exchange for credibility. There was a good chance that Billy belonged to one of the groups, which would explain how he made the silencer, she thought. Still there was the possibility that Ron was working with Billy. Ally thought about it for a few minutes and then went to see Robert.

He listened to her theories as they shared a pot of coffee.

"So? What do you think?" asked Ally.

"I'd say that he's involved, one way or the other. We can't bring him in, but I think that Jack Morgan could. Arlington could question him. They could say that they're investigating the shooting of Officer Casey and suspect that the shooter may be a member of one the groups that Matthews wrote about," suggested Robert.

"I'll call up Jack and set it up," stated Ally. "Oh, thanks for looking after me."

Robert smiled, and pointed at his chest in a "who me?" motion.

"Still, I want you to know that I appreciate that you care about my well-being," reiterated Ally, as she stood up.

"You're welcome," replied Robert. "Let me know how it goes with Jack."

 

Chapter 36

"Sounds like an interesting idea, Ally. I'll call Mr. Matthews and set up an interview. I'll call you if he accepts," replied Jack. "Do you think he knows anything?"

"I don't know. I agree with my boss that he's involved somehow. I'm thinking he gave Billy the tip about the stakeout, because it involved a transgendered teen. He also knows that that information led to the shooting of a police officer."

"I agree," replied Jack. "How's the hunting going?"

"We may have made contact this morning. We'll see if he comes back this evening," answered Ally.

"Good. No matter where the stakeout is set up, I want in on it," stated Jack firmly.

"I guarantee that you'll be there," replied Ally.

There was a moment of silence. "You know, Ally, you keep this up and you're going to give your department a bad name. Feds aren't supposed to be so cooperative!" quipped Jack.

Ally joined in the laughter. "I'll have to watch that. I'll be talking to you later."

Ally hung up the phone. It had been a very productive morning.

 

Chapter 37

Ally sat next to Carol as they drove over to have dinner with Maggie, Steve, and Beth.

"Do you think we're doing the right thing? I mean this could just be opening old wounds," remarked Ally.

"The final decision will be up to Beth. Personally, I think she'll jump at the offer. As much as she loves Steve and Maggie, she still has feelings for her family. Meeting Andrea might give her the inner peace she's lacking," replied Carol.

"As always, you're right."

They pulled up in front of the Williams' home. Ally carried the salad as they approached the front door. Beth was standing by the open door, waving hi to them.

"May I take that from you?" she asked.

"That's okay, but thanks for the offer," stated Ally.

Steve was very happy with his new barbecue and the steaks came out perfect. Dinner was excellent, although Ally felt a bit nervous as she ate. She still wondered if they were doing the right thing.

After dinner they sat out on the deck and enjoyed the fact that it was unseasonably cool, a sign that summer was coming to an end.

"It feels good to have no humidity for a while," remarked Carol.

"I agree, it's a nice change of pace," replied Maggie.

Ally was wondering when it would be a good time to break the news to Beth. She glanced over at Maggie and nodded.

"So, are you going to tell me whatever it is you've been keeping secret all evening," interrupted Beth, with a smile on her face.

"Was it that obvious?" asked Ally, feigning surprise.

Beth, grinned, looked over at Ally and nodded.

Ally looked around at everyone and took a deep breath. "I met your grandmother this week."

Beth sat there speechless.

"I didn't know initially that she was related to you. I saw her regarding work," continued Ally. She then told Beth about Andrea.

"I can't believe that she never told us about her past," replied a stunned Beth.

"You mean that she never told you that she was Andy Baker?" asked Maggie, who had her arm around Beth's shoulders.

"Or that she was an agent. I knew she had worked for the government. I always knew she was different and very special, but I never suspected the truth," stated Beth.

"Would you like to meet her?" asked Maggie.

"Can I?" asked an excited Beth.

Maggie nodded. "I think that it would be good for both of you."

Beth beamed. "I just want you to know that this changes nothing between us. You two are still my parents."

"We know that, Beth," interjected Steve.

"What if she doesn't want to see me?" asked Beth.

"I doubt that will happen. I think Andrea will be excited to know that you're alive, and considering her past, your gender won't be an issue to her either," stated Ally.

"When can we go up to see her?" asked Beth.

"We can call and see if the weekend is good. If so, we can drive up tomorrow after the dress fittings," stated Maggie.

"Can Ally come with us?" asked Beth.

"Sure, after all this was her idea," replied Maggie, with a smile.

"I just want to thank all of you for caring about me this much," stated Beth. She then got up and hugged everyone in the room.

 

Chapter 38

Ally picked up the phone and called Andrea. Beth was sitting anxiously next to her. Maggie was sitting next to Beth, with her arm around her for support.

"This is a pleasant surprise! How are you this evening, Ally?" asked Andrea.

"I'm good, thanks. I was wondering if you are free this weekend," asked Ally.

"I don't have any plans. Why? What's on your mind?" replied Andrea.

Ally paused. She debated not telling Andrea about Beth until they arrived, but at the same time she didn't want to worry Andrea. "I have something to tell you. Are you sitting down?"

"Are you alright?" asked Andrea.

Ally could hear the concern in Andrea's voice. "I'm fine. I have some very shocking and good news to tell you. Your grandson Ben wasn't killed in a plane crash."

There was a long pause. "Ben is alive?"

"Yes…and no. Ben was changed. It's complicated, but Ben is now a young woman named Beth," replied Ally. Ally thought she could hear a gasp of shock on the other end of the phone.

"And where is Beth?" asked Andrea

"She's sitting next to me," replied Ally, she reached over and took Beth's hand in hers.

There was another long silence. "May I speak to her?"

"Here she is," stated Ally. She then handed the phone to Beth.

"Hi Gran," greeted Beth is a soft voice.

"Ben…I mean Beth…is this really you?" asked Andrea.

"Yes, it's me, Gran. I can't believe that I'm talking to you again!"

"No more shocked than I. How…how is this possible?" asked Andrea.

"It's a long story. I'd rather tell you in person, if you don't mind," stated Beth.

"I look forward to hearing your story. Are you down in Washington too?" asked Andrea.

"Actually, I live just outside the city. I can't wait to see you!" exclaimed Beth.

"I feel the same way, my dear," replied Andrea.

"Aren't you going to test me or something like that? I mean… I'm kinda surprised that you accept me as Ben without any real proof," continued Beth, as tears rolled down her cheeks.

"I know it's you, my dear. I've always had a feeling that you were still alive. Although, I didn't suspect that you were now a girl! Still, considering everything I've seen in my life, I shouldn't be surprised by anything," replied Andrea.

Beth wiped away tears from her eyes. "Thank you, Gran, you have no idea how hard it has been for me not to see anyone in the family!"

Maggie handed Beth a tissue.

"I look forward to seeing you. Will Ally be with when you come up here?" asked Andrea.

"Yes, along with my Mom…her name is Maggie, and she's the woman who helped me when I was transformed," stated Beth. "She's really wonderful."

"I can't wait to see all of you. I have an idea. Why don't I come down there? I haven't been to DC in years," suggested Andrea.

"Are you sure? I mean it's not an easy trip."

"My dear, I'm no spring chicken, but I can still get around by myself just fine. I'll catch the train in the morning and be there tomorrow afternoon. I'll call you with the arrival time," stated Andrea.

"I know better than to argue with you, Gran! Of course you'll stay with us. I really want you to meet my parents."

"I'd like that, my dear. What's your number?"

Beth gave her their number. They talked for a few more minutes, and then she hung up the phone.

"I'll meet her at the train station," offered Beth.

"I can take the afternoon off," offered Maggie. "We'll meet her together."

Beth hugged her and then gave another round of hugs to everyone else. "I can't believe I'm going to see her again!"

"Sometimes wishes do come true," said Ally softly, almost to herself.

 

Chapter 39

The following morning Donna and Ally rode together over to the shop to meet with the seamstress for the final fitting.

"You know that you violated the first rule of being a bride; you actually selected bridesmaid dresses that aren't hideous!" joked Ally. "The Bridal Police may file charges against you."

Donna had selected simple, but elegant blue-colored silk gowns for the bridesmaids. Ally's dress was a slightly darker shade of blue. They were floor-length and had matching shawls.

"I tried, but they were out of the styles I wanted. I'll do worse my next marriage," retorted Donna.

A few minutes later they arrived at the shop. The woman who ran the shop waved to them as they walked in.

"Donna, Ally, it's great to see you two. The rest of your party just left," stated the woman, whose name was Sheila.

"Oh, I was hoping to see them," replied a slightly disappointed Donna.

The woman led them into the back and showed them where their dresses were hanging.

Ally changed into the dress. It fit perfectly and she was pleased with the way she looked in it. She stepped out to show Sheila how it looked.

"Very nice, very nice indeed. Now, I ran this idea past the other women, but I wanted Donna's and your approval. The dresses could easily be made strapless. I could make the adjustments in a very short time," suggested Sheila.

"I don't think so," answered Ally.

"Here let me show you." Sheila then slipped the straps down on Ally's dress. It immediately exposed the scar on her right shoulder.

Sheila was immediately embarrassed. Ally moved her straps back up. "It's okay. I was wounded back in the fall."

"I didn't know, I'm so sorry," apologized an embarrassed Sheila.

Ally smiled. "You couldn't have known. It's no big deal, but let's just keep the straps where they are, okay?"

Sheila nodded. "I do want to tell you that the dress looks lovely on you."

"Thank you. I'll go change," replied Ally.

By the time Ally changed, Donna was just stepping out of the dressing room.

"Wow! Donna, you look stunning!" exclaimed Ally.

Donna had a huge grin on her face. "I feel like a princess!"

Sheila inspected the dress and also seemed pleased with the fit. "I could make a slight adjustment to the hemline, but otherwise it looks perfect!"

"I agree," concurred Ally.

"Cool!" exclaimed Donna, as she modeled in front of the mirror.

"Ally, I should have had you go in with Donna to help her get dressed. That will be one of your duties on the wedding day. Come in the dressing room with us and I'll show you what to do," explained Shelia.

Ally looked over at Donna, as if to see how she felt.

"Come on, Ally, there's no way I can do this by myself!" offered Donna, who had a huge smile on her face.

Ally joined Donna and Sheila in the dressing room and helped Donna undress. Sheila explained what had to be done and in what order. Ally took note and tried to act calm as they undressed Donna.

During lunch Donna brought up the fact that Ally seemed nervous in the dressing room. "You have nothing to worry about concerning me, Ally. You're a woman to me and I feel totally at ease with you. You're also my best friend and if you can't trust your best friend, who can you trust?"

"I appreciate that. I knew it was part of my duties, but I still felt a bit strange about it," answered Ally.

Donna nodded. "Well, it will be my turn to feel nervous when you get your surgery. I've already talked to Carol and I want to help nurse you after your surgery. It's the least I can do."

"Are you sure? I'm a really bad patient."

"I know. Remember, I saw you when you were recovering last fall," reminded Donna.

"That was nothing. I plan on being really bitchy next time."

"That seems appropriate, considering the surgery you're getting!" joked Donna.

Ally joined her in the laughter until they were crying.

 

Chapter 40

Ally checked in with Joe, and found out that Billy was back. He was definitely interested in Tommy/Tammy.

"So, do you think this is him?" asked Joe, as he typed in a response to Billy.

"I think so. What has he told you about himself?" asked Ally.

"He's says he's in his late teens, but I suspect that he's much older. He said that he cannot talk most days due to his job."

"What have you told him about yourself?" asked Ally.

Joe held up a checklist. The list contained biographical information about Tommy/Tammy, including the items that they normally didn't reveal. However for this case they planned on deliberately repeating Kelly's mistakes.

"I know it's the same guy," declared Kelly.

Ally nodded. "Okay, string him out as long as you can, we don't want to look overly anxious. Remember he knows our routine and we want him to feel at ease. If it is him, then he wants to meet us as much as we want to meet him."

"Yes, Mom," replied Joe, with a smile. "I won't mess this up."

"I know you'll do your best. Oh, Kelly, how did the cloning go yesterday?" asked Ally.

"It was a very interesting experience. They took a mold of my head and face. They also took what seemed like hundreds of photos and measurements. They said they should have Kelly II ready by Wednesday," informed Kelly.

"I like the name, Kelly II," said Joe.

"So, besides being the bait, what else do you want me to do?" asked Kelly.

"Help Joe. You know this guy better than any of us. We'll discuss getting you back on full duties after this case," answered Ally.

Ally could see the disappointment in Kelly's eyes.

"Kelly, don't worry about your status here. If I didn't think you could do the job, you wouldn't be here," stated Ally. "This case is extremely important and we need you focused on this case for now."

Kelly smiled. "Thanks, Mom."

Ally nodded and returned to her office. She was pleased that Billy had made contact. This meant they had a chance to get him. She would really enjoy seeing this one caught, she thought.

Jack called her a little after one. "I've set up an interview with Ron Matthews. You want to watch?"

"Through the looking glass, I assume," quipped Ally.

"That's right, Alice. We don't want him to see you," replied Jack with a laugh.

"When do you want me there?"

"Can you be here by 2:30?"

"No problem. I have some things to discuss with you too," replied Ally.

"See you then."

She hung up the phone. There was the possibility that the reporter was uninvolved, but Ally doubted that. Either he was in on the shooting, or he was being used by Billy. Either way, they had to treat him carefully, or else risk alerting Billy.

 

Chapter 41

Ally sat behind the mirror listening to the conversation between Jack and the reporter.

"I appreciate that you came in. We're looking at all leads in the shooting of Officer Casey," stated Jack in a friendly manner. "We're looking for anything that might help us find the killer."

"I know quite a few officers here, but I didn't know her. Still I was shocked when I heard she was shot. I wish I could help you find the person who shot her," answered Ron.

Ally studied the reporter. He was in his thirties and had short black hair. He had a well-trimmed moustache and goatee. Overall, he was an attractive man, thought Ally. However, he also had a sense of smugness that made her think that he was hiding something.

"I apologize for using this interrogation room, but all our conference rooms are being used."

"I don't mind," replied Ron. "I just don't know how I can help."

"I see that you requested information concerning transgendered youth and any ongoing investigations," continued Jack, as he looked in his notebook.

"Yes, I did. It's one of many articles that I'm working on. I've made similar requests with other departments in the area," answered Ron.

Ally's ears perked up. She knew that he was lying. They had already checked with other departments in the area, and none had dealt with Ron.

"Officer Casey was shot at a stakeout where we were trying to get a sexual predator – one who preyed on transgendered teens," stated Jack.

Ally stared intently at Ron. He fidgeted slightly before he answered.

Ron looked at Jack. "I was told that there was an ongoing investigation concerning transgendered youth. I was told that they couldn't tell me anything at the moment…but I didn't know that she was involved in that one…."

Ally noticed that he was becoming more and more nervous.

Jack didn't say a word.

Ron wiped sweat from his forehead.

"Who were you writing this article for?" asked Jack.

"I don't have a contract with anyone. I have a few publications out there interested, but they want it juicy, if you know what I mean," replied Ron.

"Did any of these publications contact you before the shooting?" asked Jack.

Ron sat there in silence for a moment. "No, not exactly."

"What do you mean by 'not exactly'?" asked Jack.

"Well, there was this one magazine that was very interested. They wanted an article to show how the police and the Feds had their priorities backward, that they were protecting the groups that they should be arresting," confessed Ron. "The editor said that they wanted me because they had seen me at some of their meetings. I agreed to do the article because I wanted to get into better relations with them. I'm working on a book about these wacko rightwing fanatics, and I needed credibility."

"Did you tell them about the investigation?" asked Jack.

Ron began to sweat more. Ally knew he was hiding something.

"I think I may have fucked up," Ron said softly.

"What do you mean?" demanded Jack.

"I called up the editor and told him that I had info about an ongoing investigation. I had overheard at the station that your department was getting assistance from the Feds. That was the day before the shooting."

"I see. Is that your story? The reason I'm asking is that I'm going to take this down as an official statement," stated Jack. He stared intently at Ron.

"I think I want to see my lawyer," replied Ron meekly.

"That may not be necessary. Tell us the truth and you may not be charged with anything. You found out that there was a stakeout and you told someone. Tell us who it was," demanded Jack.

"I never met the editor. I talked to him on the phone. I can give you his phone number," offered Ron. He reached into his wallet and pulled out a piece of paper with a telephone number on it. He then handed it to Jack.

Jack looked at the number and dialed it. It was disconnected.

"Tell me everything you remember about this man," stated Jack.

An hour later a dejected Ron Matthews walked out of the station.

Jack sat down with Ally. "Billy played him good. I imagine Billy met him at one of those meetings and felt he could be used. We're running the number and I wouldn't be surprised if it came from a stolen cell phone."

"I agree with you. Still, we'll keep Ron under surveillance. I've already called my office," said Ally.

"I imagine that Billy is through with him," stated Jack.

"True, but maybe we'll get lucky," answered Ally. "I just want to say that you were good in there. I was very impressed."

"You shouldn't be. He was too easy," laughed Jack.

"Don't sell yourself short."

"I wish I could charge him with something, but I can't charge him with being stupid," added Jack.

"The jails are too crowded as it is."

"You feel like a beer? My treat," asked Jack.

Ally looked at her watch. "Can I have a rain check? I need to get home."

"Deal. Oh, what was the information that you were going to tell me?" asked Jack.

"We're sure that Billy has made contact with us. I suspect that he'll try to set up a meeting in the next few weeks," informed Ally.

"Good. I've already talked to the DA's office and they plan to go for the death penalty. But I don't think that it will be necessary. Something tells me that he's not going to be taken easily."

"I hope you're wrong. But we have no intention of taking him lightly either."

 

Chapter 42

On her way home, Ally's cell phone rang. "Ally, this is Beth. Andrea's here and we were hoping that you and Carol would join us for dinner tonight."

"That sounds wonderful. I'll call Carol and get back to you," answered Ally.

An hour later, Ally and Carol drove over to the Williams' home. Beth met them at the door. She had a huge smile on her face.

"I take it your reunion with Andrea has been good so far!" exclaimed Ally.

"Is it that obvious?" asked Beth, who was smiling from ear to ear.

"We're very happy for you," added Carol.

They walked out to the deck, where Maggie and Steve were talking to Andrea.

"Ally, it's so good to see you again. Thank you so much for setting this up," greeted Andrea.

During dinner it quickly became evident that Andrea had totally accepted Beth as her "granddaughter." Beth told Carol and Ally that Andrea had told her the latest happenings with her old family.

"Even though I can't talk to them, I'm relived to hear that they're all okay," stated Beth.

After dinner they sat in the living room and ate the Key Lime pie that Ally and Carol had brought.

"I only wish that I'd known about you sooner, Beth," remarked Andrea.

"I'm sorry, but you must admit that this isn't the easiest thing in the world to tell people," replied Beth, who was sitting next to Andrea.

"That's true. I'm a little more open-minded that most people. I don't recommend telling anyone else in the family. I doubt if they would be as understanding," continued Andrea.

"Do they know your history?" asked Beth.

"Your father does, but not your mother. I had the surgery such a long time ago that it doesn't matter to me, but I reluctantly agreed to keep silent about it," replied Andrea. "Your father was afraid of what others might think if they found out that I was born male. Don't get me wrong, your father and I love each other, but times were different back then."

"Do all your children feel this way?" asked Ally.

"No, but we agreed to keep it a secret from everyone else," replied Andrea. "As much as I would like my entire family to know my life story, I also understand how shocking it could be to them."

"It doesn't matter to me, but then again I'm a special case," remarked Beth. "I would love you regardless!"

Beth gave Andrea a long hug.

Steve brought in the carafe of coffee and refilled their cups. "Andrea, I would love to hear about some of your war adventures."

"You really don't want to hear those boring tales, do you?" asked Andrea, with a smile on her face.

"I know I would!" exclaimed Beth.

"So would I!" added Ally.

"I think that all of us would love that," agreed Maggie.

"Well, considering that everyone in this room is an agent, I guess I could tell you one," replied Andrea with a smile.

"Only one?" asked Beth with a big grin on her face.

 

Chapter 43

"It was a few months after I agreed to stay in Denmark. I was still using my German identity, although I now had much better identification. My Danish was still very bad and it made passing as a Dane difficult. So, I was Gretchen Mueller, a young German woman, living in Denmark. This identity allowed me to move around quite easily," explained Andrea.

"What did you do?" asked Beth.

"I was a courier. I carried messages and documents between different resistance cells. It may not seem that exciting, but it was dangerous, important work. If I'd been caught, I would have been turned over to the Gestapo. I don't even want to think what they would have done to me! Anyway, I was eventually given more important tasks," stated Andrea.

Everyone's eyes were on her as she told her story.

"The resistance was helping more escaping prisoners. I was given the job of screening them. There was a great fear that the Germans would try to use a fake prisoner to expose us. My job was to sit down and talk to each escaped prisoner and try to discover if he was really what he claimed to be."

"How did you do that? I don't imagine that you interrogated them," stated Steve.

"No, my ways were slightly more subtle. When the resistance took in an escaped prisoner, they would hide him. I would be the girl who would take care of them. I would serve them meals, and since I was a pretty young girl, I was to use my charms to feel them out. I had military and cultural knowledge that the Danes lacked," replied Andrea.

"Cultural knowledge?" asked Beth.

"Yes, my dear. The Danes were familiar with the British and most Allied countries, but Americans baffled them. The only things they knew about America were from the movies," explained Andrea.

"Some things never change," piped in Carol.

Everyone broke out in laughter.

"I would innocently ask questions about the states and judge their answers. They were usually so busy trying to hit on me that they never suspected that I was questioning them," explained Andrea.

"Did you ever catch a German?" asked Maggie.

"One time. The resistance suspected he wasn't really an American and had him hidden at a farm about twenty miles outside of Copenhagen. They brought me out to check on him. I wasn't sure at first, but the more we talked the more I began to realize that he was a German. I was passed off as the niece of the farmer whose farm we were using. I spoke to the man in accented English. He immediately asked me what part of Germany I was from. I told him that I grew up on the border and that my father's side of the family was German. He didn't seem worried about this; in fact he seemed relieved that I was German. Most escaped prisoners were highly suspect of any German," stated Andrea.

"What really gave him away?" asked Beth.

"I asked him where he was from. He said he was from Ohio. Now this was perfect, as that's where I was raised. So, I began to ask him to tell me all about the exotic land called Ohio. He had no reason to suspect that I knew anything about Ohio, so he began to talk. Within twenty minutes I could tell he was lying. He made several mistakes regarding the climate and scenery, but I needed more proof," Andrea stated.

"What was the lie?" asked Ally.

"He said that he lived in Cincinnati. I asked if he ever saw a baseball game. He said he went to games all the time. I told him that I had only heard of the Yankees. He said that he was a big fan of the Yankees and went to all the games when the Yankees came to town. The problem with this was that the Yankees and the Reds are in different leagues. Granted, this by itself wasn't enough to consider him a liar, but it was a start," explained Andrea.

"Wow! Just like the old movies, you really used baseball knowledge to catch German spies!" exclaimed Steve.

Andrea nodded. "The more I talked to him, the more I was convinced that he wasn't an American. The question was what to do with him? We then came up with a plan. Several of our agents dressed up as members of the Schalburg Corps and they broke into the farmhouse where we were keeping him and 'arrested' all of us."

"What's the Schalburg Corps?" asked Carol.

Andrea turned to Carol. "They were Danish collaborators of the worst kind. They were murderous thugs recruited to hunt the resistance. What they lacked in numbers, they made up for in brutality. They were our mortal enemies, even worse than the Nazis. Anyway, our fake Schalburg Corps members lined us all up, and prepared to execute us. Well, the man who claimed to be from Cincinnati began to shout at them in German. He told them he was part of a Gestapo operation to infiltrate the resistance and they had just ruined months of preparations. He demanded that they take him to Gestapo HQ in Copenhagen He then pulled out a hidden pass that confirmed his identity. He was furious when he found out that he had just been fooled."

"What did you do with him?" asked Beth anxiously.

"He was interrogated and then executed. We sort of killed two birds with one stone. His death was made to look as if the real Schalburg Corps had killed him. The Gestapo sought revenge and several members of the Schalburg Corps disappeared. I think of it as poetic justice," smiled Andrea.

"What happened after that?" asked Beth.

Andrea turned to Beth and yawned. "That's another story, my dear, and I think I should save it for another evening.

Beth and the others looked disappointed.

"Thank you for sharing that adventure with us," stated Maggie.

Everyone else was nodding. They all agreed to get together for dinner the next night.

* * * *

Later that evening Ally was lying next to Carol in bed. "What a remarkable woman," stated Carol.

"I know. I can't imagine what it must have been like back then," replied Ally.

"Even though they aren't related by blood, I see a lot of Andrea in Beth," added Carol.

"I was thinking the same thing. I also see Steve and Maggie in her too."

"I agree," said Carol, who then pulled Ally closer. "You did a good thing in reuniting them." Carol then kissed Ally.

Ally felt the familiar tingle run through her as Carol kissed her. It was as exciting now as it had been that first time in a hotel room in California. Ally considered herself so lucky to be so deeply in love.

 

Chapter 44

Ally drove into the office on Saturday morning. She knew that Joe would probably be on a computer, hoping for more contact with Billy. She knew this, because it's what she would do.

Sure enough, Ally found Joe sitting in front of a computer.

"Good morning," greeted Ally. She then handed him a bag and a cup of coffee.

"Good morning, Ally," replied Joe, as he took the bag. He opened it up and found a toasted cinnamon raisin bagel, with cream cheese. The coffee was cream with two sugars. "My favorite! How did you know?"

Ally just stared back with a sly smile on her face.

Joe pretended to smack himself in the forehead. "My bad! Of course you know my favorite. Do you have a photographic memory?" he asked, as he took a bite of the bagel.

"No, I just remember what's important. So, any luck with Billy?" asked Ally, as she pulled up a chair.

"No, not yet. Although, he talked to me for two hours last night," replied Joe.

Ally picked up the checklist and noted that Billy had been told the bait-teen's real first name and high school. They'd given him the name of the same private school that Beth attended. The attendance secretary was the wife of a retired agent. She would let Ally know if anyone called requesting information on Thomas Allen Rose, the bait-teen's name.

"Remember, if he presses you for your last name, hesitate, don't give it up too quickly," reminded Ally.

Joe glanced over at her, and nodded. "Don't worry, Ally. We'll get this guy."

"Where's Kelly?" asked Ally, with a smile.

"She called and said that she's on her way in," replied Joe.

Ally nodded. "Tell me, Joe, do you like working here?"

Joe turned to Ally. "Yes, I love the work. I'm a huge Sherlock Holmes fan and I've always loved movies like The Sting. In many ways I get to combine the two here!"

Ally laughed. "I never thought of it that way."

"I also like the way you don't exclude anyone. You go after the bad guys regardless of who their victims are. I know that isn't just because of your own experiences," continued Joe.

"Thank you," replied Ally, feeling slightly embarrassed.

"Seriously, I think you've done a lot of good. I wish there had been someone like you around back when I was a kid," added Joe.

Ally stared at him. Joe was a pleasant young man. He was short and thin and had light brown hair. From his file she knew that he had grown up in Norwich, Connecticut, in a large family. His parents were teachers at a private school. "Something you want to get off your chest?"

Joe turned and nodded. "When I was a kid, they arrested a teacher at the school where my parents taught. It was hushed up, but I heard later that he had molested a lot of kids over the years. The sad thing was that when students complained about the man, no one listened. The man was so respected and loved that no one could believe that he would do something so heinous."

"How did they catch him?"

"He…he used my older brother. He was only ten at the time. Luckily, my parents believed him. For the 'protection of the honor of the school' the arrest was kept quiet."

"What happened to your brother?" asked Ally, with some trepidation.

"He's okay, although he's had a lot of therapy. He's never told me exactly what the man did to him. Every time I make contact with one of these predators, I think of my brother and well, it becomes personal. Don't worry, Ally, it doesn't cloud my judgment. It just drives me to catch them. Does that make sense?"

Ally smiled and nodded. "Yes, yes it does."

"Anyway, when I graduated college, I decided to go into law enforcement. I spent some time as a regular agent, but I wanted more. I then heard about your department and immediately applied," continued Joe.

"We were lucky to get you," replied Ally.

"Thanks. I really like working here. I also like the people I work with," added Joe.

"Especially, Kelly?" asked Ally with a grin.

"Yeah, I like her. We're a good team," replied Joe in a soft tone.

"You don't have to worry. I don't care what my agents do in their off time, as long as it doesn't impact work in the office," stated Ally.

He nodded. "We just friends now, but I wouldn't mind it becoming more serious."

"I also understand that you're interested in playing the bait-teen."

"Yes, very much so," Joe replied quickly.

"You don't mind the fact that you'd have to dress up as a girl?" asked Ally.

Joe chuckled. "I don't mind. I like undercover work."

"Well, if Billy doesn't contact any local police departments, you have the job. I imagine Kelly and Donna will enjoy dressing you up."

Kelly then walked in the room. "Good morning, everyone!"

Joe flashed Ally a look and she gave him a wink back. "Hi, Kelly," greeted Ally.

Joe suddenly interrupted them. "Billy's here!"

All eyes were on the monitor as Joe typed out his response.

Tammy: Hi Billy! I was hoping you'd be in here this morning!

Billy87: How're you this morning?

Tammy: I'm good. I'm still nervous about starting school in a few weeks. I still don't know anyone here.

Billy87: You'll do okay. Besides, you know me! It's just too bad that you won't be going to school as Tammy. I love a girl in a uniform!

Tammy: I wish I could!

Billy87: The girls at your school wear really cute uniforms. I'd love to see you in a plaid skirt and white blouse, with your little Boobies sticking out!

Tammy: lol

Billy87: I mean it. I know that you're scared, but you can trust me. Okay?

Tammy: I know. I'm just not ready yet.

Billy87: You're more ready that you think. I really care about you. I know that you're really a girl, no matter what others think. Okay?

Tammy: Thank you, Billy! Hugz!

Joe talked to Billy for another hour. It may have seemed like harmless flirting between two teens, but it only confirmed that Billy was the man they were hunting.

After another hour Billy left, but not before telling Joe that he wouldn't be back in the room until Monday. He said that he had to go out of town to visit his grandmother.

"When do you think that I should tell him Tammy's last name?" asked Joe.

"The next time he asks. Also, if he wants to talk over the phone, do it. Your voice is passable for a teen," answered Ally.

"Do you think he'll try to set up a meeting soon?" asked Kelly.

"He's getting anxious. I imagine that it will go down in the next week or so. We have to stall at least until Kelly II arrives," replied Ally.

"So, you think that he's skipping telling the police, like he did last time?" asked Joe.

Ally nodded. "He knows that he screwed up last time. I don't think he'll take any chances this time. Besides he'll look more like a big shot if he kills the Protector during an agency stakeout."

"That means that he could try to set up the meeting almost anywhere in the area," stated Kelly.

"No, he'll pick a location that Tammy can easily reach. Steve has Spec-Ops checking out possible locations within a five-mile radius of the school. It's still a lot of ground, but they have it narrowed down to around five sites. Of course, Billy could throw us a total curve, but I doubt that. He's too arrogant to think that we're on to him. He'll pick a place that will give him a good shot and also allow him a quick escape," explained Ally.

"Are we too arrogant to think that he might suspect that we're setting him up?" asked Joe.

Ally smiled. "We've thought of that. However, I think he'll risk the shot regardless of whether or not he thinks it's a trap. He has too much to lose if he fails again."

"I can't wait to see his face when we arrest him," remarked Kelly.

"I just wonder if we'll take him alive," added Joe.

Ally nodded in agreement.

"I'll make a few token appearances in the chat room the rest of the weekend. Just in case Billy stops by. There's also the possibility that he'll use an alias to see if I'm in here," stated Joe.

Ally nodded her approval. "Call me if anything comes up." She then stood up.

"We will. Thanks again for the bagel," answered Joe.

"Bagel? I didn't get a bagel!" whined Kelly in jest.

"Next time I'll bring along a poppy seed bagel for you," replied Ally.

Kelly seemed a little shocked that Ally knew her favorite type of bagel.

"She knew my favorite type too. I wonder if this room is bugged!" quipped Joe.

Ally shrugged her shoulders and laughed. "See you Monday."

 

Chapter 45

At the same time that Ally was picking up Joe's bagel, Beth was sitting on Andrea's bed talking to her grandmother. She sat there cross-legged across from Andrea.

"I'm amazed at how easily you've adjusted to being a teenage girl," Andrea said.

"Part of that was due to the genetic engineering. Dr. Martz wanted to recreate his daughter, so he ensured that I accepted my new gender. But that was only part of it. I thank Maggie and Steve for accepting me and adopting me as their daughter," replied Beth.

"They're very nice people. I felt the same way about Karl and Sofie. They really helped me in my transition," stated Andrea.

"I wish I could have known them."

"You would have liked them. If they hadn't been so open-minded, I never would have survived my transition."

"I know that if it hadn't been for Maggie, I wouldn't have made it. It wasn't the transformation that was so hard; it was the fact that I was suddenly without a family. In just a moment I was alone. I didn't even have an opportunity to say goodbye. It was horrifying. If Maggie hadn't taken me in, I don't know what I would have done. I do know that I wouldn't have made it alone," confessed Beth.

Andrea looked at her granddaughter. "You don't mean that you thought about suicide?"

Beth nodded softly and looked over at Andrea. She spoke in a quiet voice, as if she was afraid someone else would hear. "I've never talked about it, but I knew that I couldn't make it alone. I realized how important family was and without one I didn't want to go on. Thankfully, the agency allowed Maggie to adopt me."

Andrea nodded. "I imagine the Director made that decision. I suspect that he thinks highly of you."

Beth nodded. "I know. I've met him a few times and I sense that I'm more than just another agent to him. Gran, you know him, why am I so special to him?"

Andrea shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know for sure. Maybe he felt he owed it to Lars and me. We trained him when he first came into the agency. But I suspect that it goes beyond that. You could do worse than to have him as a benefactor."

Beth nodded. "Gran, can I ask you something else?"

Andrea smiled and nodded.

"How did you know it was me? I was expecting you to start asking me all sorts of questions about the family, you know, as a test. But you just accepted me," rambled Beth.

"It's hard to explain, Beth. I just knew that you were Ben. Maybe it's something in your eyes. When I look into them, I know that you're telling me the truth," explained Andrea. "Also, why would someone lie about such a thing?"

"That's true. I'm just so happy that I have you back in my life again. You've always been my favorite!" exclaimed Beth.

"That's only because I always made you your favorite cookies," smiled Andrea.

Beth laughed. "I do love your gingersnaps!"

"Well, while I'm down here, would you like me to bake you some?" asked Andrea.

"Would you? That would be awesome! Can I help?" asked Beth.

"I'd like that. I can pass the recipe down to you. Let me get dressed and we'll see what we need to get. Will Maggie mind me using her kitchen?"

"No, not at all. Just as long as you give her the recipe!"

 

Chapter 46

Ally spent the rest of the morning with Donna and Barbara working on the wedding. It was just two weeks away.

Ally smiled at the skirmishes between Donna and Barbara over details for the ceremony and reception. In spite of their disagreements, Ally sensed a strong love between the two of them.

For the most part, everything was set. Barbara was concerned over the seating for the reception.

"Donna, you can't have Aunt Ruth sitting in the back. You know she'll be upset," argued Barbara.

"The only other option is to put her at the table with the cousins and you know that they don't get along. I don't want a repeat of what happened at Lisa's wedding!" stated Donna firmly.

"What happened?" asked Ally.

"Lisa's my cousin, and at her wedding Aunt Ruth and some of my other cousins nearly went to blows," replied Donna.

"They did not! Ally, they just had a spirited conversation," interjected Barbara.

"Ha! Mom, we had to pull them apart," interrupted Donna.

Barbara nodded and smiled. "You're right. I'd forgot about that."

"What were they arguing about?" asked Ally.

"Politics," replied Donna, as she rolled her eyes. "I arranged the seating to keep them as far apart as possible. The cousins get the closer table because I'm closer to them."

Ally laughed. "Well, warn them all that with all the law enforcement at the wedding that any fights could result in arrests."

Donna laughed and Barbara joined in when she realized that Ally was kidding.

The rest of the morning was taken up reviewing the schedule. Ally really appreciated that Barbara was around. With everything going on at work, Ally needed all the help she could get.

Ally left Donna and Barbara and headed back home. Her thoughts turned to Beth and Andrea and she wondered how they were getting along.

 

Chapter 47

Maggie sat back and enjoyed watching Beth and Andrea baking cookies together. Maggie loved Beth as if she was her own flesh and blood and was very protective of her, but she knew how important it was to Beth to have contact with at least one family member.

The whole house was filled with the aroma of the baking cookies. Twice Steve had popped his head into the kitchen to see if they were done.

"They smell delicious, Andrea," complemented Maggie.

"Sofie taught me the recipe. I'm happy to share it with you," replied Andrea, as she sat down at the kitchen table next to Maggie.

"I'm going to take some to Steve. Is he in his office?" asked Beth, as she placed some cookies on a plate.

Maggie nodded and Beth left the room with a plate of cookies.

"I hope that Beth isn't running you ragged!" remarked Maggie.

"I don't mind. I'm just so happy to see her. I'm also pleased to see that she has a wonderful family," continued Andrea.

"Thank you. Having her in my life has been wonderful."

"So, you were there when Ben was transformed?" asked Andrea.

"Yes. I met him just after he was infected," replied Maggie. Her mind wandered back to that horrible day when Ben became Beth.

Andrea sat there in silence, she seemed lost in thought, as if she was trying to imagine what it must have been like to watch her grandson turn into a young girl.

"If you don't mind me asking, what were your reasons for taking in Beth?" asked Andrea. "I mean, you barely knew Ben, you had no real obligation to Beth. Don't get me wrong, I cannot begin to thank you for what you've done."

Maggie smiled. "I didn't do it out of guilt or because I was being noble. I liked Ben and felt a bond with him. I was impressed by the way he handled the transformation and how he didn't wallow in self-pity. This attitude was continued even after Ben became Beth. I felt an instant bond between us. I also needed someone like Beth in my life. I was sick of dealing with just crime and violence. I wanted to see light and goodness. As much as Beth needed me, I needed her."

Andrea nodded in agreement. "Sofie told me something very similar when I was beginning my transformation."

"I know that having Beth in my life has made me a more complete person. Honestly, I can't imagine life without her," stated Maggie.

"I can tell that you really love her."

Outside the kitchen door, Beth eavesdropped on the conversation. Soon tears were running down her face. She wiped her eyes and walked quietly away. She also considered herself to be one of the luckiest persons on the face of the earth.

 

Chapter 48

Allie was just stepping out of the shower when Carol called to her. "Ally, when you get changed, you need to call Detective Morgan."

Ally wondered what was up as she wrapped a towel around her body. She sat down on the edge of their bed and called Jack.

"Sorry to bother you on a weekend, but I thought you'd want to know that we just found Ron Matthews dead. It looks like a suicide," stated Jack.

"What happened?" asked Ally.

"He was found dead in his apartment this afternoon. The ME feels it was an OD. There was no sign of foul play and he left a note. He wrote that he couldn't live with himself because he caused the death of Jamie," explained Jack.

"You sure it was a suicide?" asked Ally.

"Yes. We've had him under surveillance since our meeting and he was alone since yesterday," replied Jack.

"Thanks."

"I'll call you Monday, Ally. We should have the final ME autopsy report then. Of course, we won't know the toxicology details for a week or so. Take care."

"Okay. Have a good weekend," stated Ally as she hung up the phone and let out a long sigh. In a way she felt sorry for Ron, as he had put his own success ahead of everything. She also wanted Billy more than ever. He had caused enough pain and suffering.

 

Chapter 49

"Come on, Ally, you have to try these!" urged Beth, as she held a plate of cookies in front of Ally and Carol. Carol was sitting on the couch and Ally was sitting on the floor next to her.

Ally smiled, picked up one of the thin brown cookies off the plate, and examined it. "I'm not sure. I've tasted your cooking before!"

"It's Gran's recipe. Please, try one!" begged Beth.

Ally took a bite. It was scrumptious. "These are good."

"Andrea, may I have the recipe for them?" asked Carol, as she nibbled on one.

"Of course," replied Andrea.

It was after dinner and they were all sitting around the living room.

"She learned to make them when she lived in Denmark," informed Beth.

"It was much more difficult to make them then. We had a hard time getting all the ingredients," stated Andrea.

"I'm sure that was the least of your problems," stated Steve, as he picked up another of the cookies.

"It's funny, but I didn't mind the danger that much. A man I knew back then remarked that I was the type of person who actually craved danger. It was the shortages of food that bothered me the most. It may sound silly, but not having sugar or real coffee was more of an issue. Hunger was one of the worst things about being in the camp," explained Andrea.

"So, besides screening escaped prisoners, what else did you do with the resistance?" asked Beth.

"Haven't I told you enough stories today?" laughed Andrea.

"No!" replied Beth with a giggle.

Andrea shook her head in mock anger. "I'll tell you one more and then I want to hear some more of your adventures."

"Let me get everyone a refill before you start, Andrea," stated Steve, as he picked up the carafe of coffee. He began to make the rounds, filling everyone's coffee cup.

"Please tell us about your escape from the prison camp," begged Beth.

"I think we'd all like to hear that one," interjected Maggie.

For the next hour Andrea told the spellbound crowd all about her escape from Stalag Luft I. (Told in the author's "A Different Kind of Freedom.")

"That was incredible," stated Steve.

"It was a team effort. I was the one who escaped, but there were so many others who made it possible," replied Andrea.

Ally began to stand up and winced in pain as she pushed herself up off the floor.

"You okay, Ally?" asked Maggie, noting Ally's discomfort.

"Yes. The shoulder is just acting up this evening," replied Ally as she rubbed her right shoulder.

"Is that where you were stabbed?" asked Andrea in a concerned voice.

Ally sat down next to Carol, who began to massage the shoulder. "Yes."

"I was lucky. I was shot in the leg once during the war, but it didn't do any major damage," replied Andrea as she pointed to her right thigh.

"I can top that. I was shot in my right shoulder and stabbed here," stated Steve pointing to his left arm.

"Enough! This is starting to turn into the boat scene from Jaws," interrupted Maggie with a laugh.

"You're just jealous because you don't have any battle scars to show off!" replied Steve.

"No, unlike you, I've just been careful. I've learned that I can arrest the bad guys without getting hurt," retorted Maggie. She then stuck her tongue out at him.

They all laughed.

"So you know about the MNF killer?" asked Ally. The discomfort was easing in her shoulder. Carol slipped her arm around Ally's shoulders. Ally rested her head on Carol's shoulder.

"Yes. I read the after-action report. You did a good job," replied Andrea.

"I still screwed up. I never should have opened that door."

Andrea nodded knowingly. "We all make mistakes, the important thing is to learn from them."

"When are you going back to Manhattan, Andrea?" asked Carol.

"I originally planned to go back tomorrow, but Beth has begged me to stay a few more days. I'll probably be going back Wednesday morning," answered Andrea.

"If you're free, I'd love to have you take a tour of my department," offered Ally.

"I'd like that. You sure I won't interfere with your operations?" asked Andrea.

Ally shook her head no. "Beth can bring you by anytime."

"That sounds good. I'm meeting Theodore for lunch Tuesday afternoon. I can stop by after that."

"Theodore?" asked Steve.

"The Director," answered Ally knowingly.

Steve looked shocked. "I thought his first name was 'The'."

Everyone laughed.

 

Chapter 50

Ally was lying next to Carol in their bed. Carol had just spent thirty minutes massaging Ally's shoulder.

"It seemed tighter than usual. I want you to tell your therapist about this," stated Carol.

"I will," replied Ally. "I know Maggie was just joking, but maybe she was right."

"Ally, we've gone over this hundreds of times. You did what you thought was right at the time. You were dealing with a total psychopath. I wish you'd stop beating yourself up about it. Andrea was right, you need to move on."

Ally cuddled up closer to Carol. "Thank you. I needed that."

Carol kissed Ally. "You're a pain sometimes, but I still love you."

Ally giggled and they began to kiss and hug. They began to run their hands gently over each other's bodies. Ally loved the mutual and sharing aspect of their lovemaking. It was so superior to what she had done when she was a male.

 

(continued)

  

  

  

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