Mickette

   Starsky was growing more frantic as time went by. Nick had to be around here somewhere. He no longer allowed himself to believe that he could be out of state by now. He had to believe that he could lead him to Ben. He had pulled into nearly every coffee shop along the highway. Just one more left. He pulled in and walked up to the counter.

   "What can I get you?" a waitress asked.

    Starsky didn't even notice the flirting eyes, he had no time for that.

   "I'm looking for someone. He's a kid about 18 years old. Blonde, Blue eyes... average ht and wt. Have you seen anyone like that come in here?"

   "I'm not sure, we see lots of folks coming in and out of here" the waitress toyed with the man.

   "You would remember this kid. He had a wide-eyed look about him. Like he's seeing everything for the first time."

   She wished she had what this man was looking for, cuz she was definitely looking for this man!

   "Well, maybe I did see this boy, who wants to know?"

   Starsky's tone changed from one of anxious curiosity to angry desperation.

   "Look Vicky" Starsky didn't miss a beat reading her name tag," I don't have time for this, Have you seen this kid or haven't you?"

   "I think I might have seen him early" a voice said from behind.

   Starsky turned to see another waitress sitting in a booth.

   "Hey Georgie, get your own man" Vicky hollered outright.

   Starsky walked over to the booth.

   "You think you saw this kid?"

   "Well she's right, we get load of folks come by here in a day. You know, being on the main highway and all. But there was something about that kid. He was a real cutie... much to young though, too bad." She could see him loosing his anxious but pleasant disposition.

   "Oh yeah, anyway... he ordered pancakes and when I told him it was too close to lunch but I could nuke him some. You should have seen the look on his face. Even when I explained microwave, he was like I was speaking a different language. Definitely the wide-eyes kid your looking for."

   Starsky felt hopeful for the first time.

   "Can you tell me where he went?"

   "Sorry sweetie, He come in here about 1130 this morning. He ate then he headed down the road, that way" she turned and pointed in the direction.

   "Sorry that's all I know"

   "Thanks Georgie, I owe you one. At least I know he's still around here somewhere"

   "Don't mention it, if he comes back..."

   "Yes, please tell him that Starsky is looking for him and that it's important he contact the police ASAP. Can you do that for me?"

   Starsky noticed Vicky steaming in her own juices, he couldn't resist... he bent down and gave Georgie a kiss and thanked her again.

   Georgie looked at her fellow waitress and grinned from inside out.

   "Floozy!" Vicky exclaimed.

   "Yep and you're a jealous floozy"

   Both women sadly turned and watch as the attractive stranger drove out of site.

   "Cap, it's me. Find anything yet?"

~~~~~   

   "No luck Starsky. They've got nearly the entire police force out at Bens, but haven't turned up anything yet. And luck on your end?"

   "Not much Cap, but more than we had before. I've talk to someone that has seen Nick. At least it sounds like it. The bad news is she doesn't know where he was headed, other than the general direction. The good news is he's still around here somewhere."

   "You gonna come in?"

   "I can't, this kid might be the only hope Hutch as got. You let me know soon as you hear anything. Anything at all"

   "You know I will Starsky. Stay in touch"

~~~~~   

   Starsky had to keep fighting to stay focus. His heart and soul were aching knowing that Hutch was out there somewhere. He hadn't even forgiven himself for not being there the first time. And now this... "Focus Starsky! He said aloud as he hit the steering wheel w/his hand. You're not doing Hutch any good wallowing in guilt right now... save that for later." He sharpened his senses and continued on his search.

~~~~~   

   Dusk was falling and Sheriff Quaid had finally closed the search down at the Boudreaux place. They had searched for hours without turning up any clues. The closest neighbors 'weren't even aware anything had happened at Ben's place, so they sure had no idea where he might be'. Quaid got the feeling though, that they wouldn't have told him if they knew.

   He was hoping to be able to help out fellow officers, but there was nothing more that could be done here. He could no longer justify having so many men out on what had turned up to be a wild goose chase.. He called off all men and gave the order for everyone to keep an eye out for the stolen car and that's where the investigation would sit at least until they got any new leads.

~~~~~   

   Hutch woke up to total darkness. He found himself propped up against a wall, bound and gagged. His body was racked with pain. Again or still, he wasn't sure anymore. As he tried to get a fix on his situation, he heard obscure sounds coming from overhead and knew there was someone out there. He tried several times to try to work free of the ropes, but there was little chance of that. The terrific pain in his broken arm was bad enough when he sat still. The slightest movement sent a shot of pain that made him cry out into the rag that had been stuffed then taped into his mouth.

   He was surprised at realizing what he was feeling, besides pain... was anger. Not fear or worry, just anger. He had finally gotten to the point that he was ready to leave that hospital room and finally take Starsky and go home. Leave this all behind him. How dare this man take him and beat him back to helplessness! The anger was pointless, there was no outlet for it. He couldn't move without pain and couldn't talk for being gagged. He didn't know how much time he'd be this man's prisoner, but the best thing he could do was not make waves and bide his time until some of his strength came back.

   Ben stirred for a moment, then woke with a start. He sat up and listened. He walked over to the hole in the cop's room.

   "Ya hear that cop? That's right, you don't. You know why? Cuz they didn't find a stinking thing, and now they've all gone home! That's one for the bad guys, right cop?"

   Ben waited as if he actually expected Hutch to reply.

   "It's funny Cop, I see you're mouth-taped shut, but I don't see anything to keep your head from moving. I would think you'd remember from our last stay together. I accept no talking back and I will not be ignored! You do remember those rules, don't you?"

   As much as Hutch hated to be talked down to, he had to go along with everything for now. He had to give Starsky time to find him. He shook his head yes.

   "That's a boy, I knew you'd see it my way! I think we'll get along just great you and me. Now, I think I'll just poke my head up and see what's happened out there. Got this cool little peephole I can spy out. I've just thought of everything, wouldn't you say?"

   Again hutch nodded in agreement.

   Ben got up and walked back to his lookout. After seeing no one in sight, he walked back, opened the 'trap door' then climbed up the latter.

    "HEY COPPERS IT'S ME!!! BIG BEN BOUDREAUX. I'M HERE FOR THE TAKING!" Ben screamed at the top of his lungs. "COME AND GET ME STARSKY, YOU'RE SO TOUGH, COME AND GET ME"

   Hutch could do little but sit in pain while listening to the ranting of the crazed maniac. If he hadn't already figured it out, he knew now. This was personal. It seemed Ben wasn't going to be happy with just himself. Starsky was now a part of this. As the reality was being made clear, the fear grabbed him deep inside.

   Ben climbed back down the latter and closed the door behind up. He was getting pretty hungry. First though, he'd rub it in to the cop a little more. Then he'd fix a bite to eat...

   He opened the small opening on the door. It was intended to pass food through should he decide to keep this man on, he'd have to feed him from time to time. He turned his flashlight on and shined it into the small room. He could see that his guest was still propped against the wall, his head down. He couldn't make out if he was sleeping or not.

   "Hey Cop! You awake?"

   Hutch was, but he didn't feel up to dealing with whatever Ben and in mind. He gave no response.

   "HEY! You best wake up if you know what's good for you!"

   Hutch played possum until he heard the door being opened. He raised his head up as if just waking up.

   Ben walked over to his guest kneeled down and grabbed the cop by a handful of hair and pulled back. He shined the light straight into his eyes. Hutch tried to hold his breath from the smell of sour moonshine as Ben rambled on.

   "You playing games with me cop? Huh?"

   Hutch shook his head no.

   "You know I don't play games, you know that by now. Don't you cop?"

   Hutch reluctantly nodded.

   "Next time I ask you a question boy, don't make me come in here. You won't like it when I have to come in here. You got that?" he asked as he pressed his knee into Hutch's ribs.

   Hutch winced in pain as he shook his head yes again.

   "Good, I think it's best that we know all the rules up front. Now, I'm feeling a bit hungry, think I'll go make me something to eat. All this excitement has really built up my appetite. So" he continued as he straightened up and stepped half over and half on Hutch, "If you'll excuse me, it's off to the kitchen"

   He walked out and shut the door, again leaving Hutch to total darkness.

   "Oh" Ben hollered through the opening one again, "I almost forgot to tell you, we are underground you know, and this is swamp land you know. So if you feel anything crawling on you. Don't worry. Not all over them are poisonous." Ben smiled as he slammed the opening back up again.

   Ok hutch he thought to himself. That was a bad move, next time let's answer the man, it'll save a little wear and tear on the already damaged ribs. His arms had become numb and sitting up put too much pressure on his ribs. He slowly laid himself down on his side. Trying to make himself as comfortable as possible. Then allowed himself to drift off before he had a chance to feel anything crawling around.

~~~~~   

   Starsky was nearing the Louisiana border. Still no Nick in sight. As he drove, he couldn't help think how everything was dejavu all over again. He had just been on these roads looking for Hutch, and after finding a clue from a lady at a restaurant, he was able to track him down. And now, here he was again. Only this time it was the boy he needed to find. And again it's been a clue from waitress that had given him hope that he could be close. Now he was afraid that just as before, he'd have to find somewhere to stay for the night. He couldn't see much in the dark and there still was the worry of he himself getting lost. He couldn't bare to think where Hutch was or what condition he was in.

   Oh how he regretted going in that hospital room that day. He gave the psycho just the excuse he needed to make this personal. But why Hutch when he was the one throwing the threats around. But he knew the answer to that. He was suffering much more this way than if Ben had done something to him. He wished he could take it back. Just stayed clear of the maniac and let the cops do their jobs. He'd be put away by now. But there was no taking anything back. Hutch was gone and all the wishing in the world wouldn't change that.

   He found a rundown motel on the side of the road, Sleep Cheap it was called. It didn't have much, but it did have a phone.

   "Cap it's me. Any word?"

   Dobey could tell by Starsky's detected voice that he had come up empty on his end, and wished he had new that would put a little spark back where it belongs. But there was no new, good or bad.

   "Sorry Starsky the locals have done all they can. They've searched everywhere they know to look, still nothing. And no word from Boudreaux."

   "What are expecting to hear from him? This isn't a kidnap for ransom cap"

    "We don't know that, we don't know why he took Hutch or what his plans are. That's all we can hope for is him to get in touch and let us know what this is all about"

   "Oh spare me cap'n we both know what this is about. I stuck my face in his and he didn't like it. It's that simple. Anyway, I'm just calling to let you know I'm at a motel, it's no good looking in the dark, so I'm gonna rest for the morning and head back out."

   "Ok Starsky, glad you decided to take a breather. Stay in touch and I'll let you know about anything here. Night Starsky, oh and try to sleep would you?"

   Starsky hung the phone up. That was no small order. Try to sleep. How could he sleep with the relentless aching, that was eating him inside out. The motel had no TV, no radio. There was nothing to serve as a distraction for his thoughts. He anguished for what seemed like hours before his body allowed him to get the rest that he needed.

~~~~~   

   Nick had caught a few rides with folks that stopped to ask if he needed a lift. He accepted most of the time. He declined the one man that stopped in a beat up old truck and looked as if he'd been drinking for days. No, he'd had enough of anyone that fit that description. The others had been very nice and had not accepted any money. Course with all the rides he had, he was still in Louisiana, although he could see from signs it wouldn't be much further. Folks would laugh when he told them he was headed to L.A. They took him as far as they were headed, then wished him luck. Usually he got about a 30-minute drive down the road. None the less he was grateful. It sure beat walking. And he was still able to save money to eat with. He thought of Annie, and how surprised she'd be if she knew he was still living off the same $20.

   He had talked himself into stopping at a worn down old motel, just to check prices. He couldn't imagine a place this beat up asking much money. He was right $7 a night would be worth it to sleep in a real bed for a change. Course when he saw the beds, he wasn't sure if he didn't get ripped off. But it was a bed none-the-less. And since there were no TVs or radio for distraction, he quickly fell asleep, wondering what the next day held for him.

~~~~~   

   Hutch came to feeling more sore than when he had fallen asleep. And wouldn't have all thought that would have been possible. It was pitch black, but he knew that didn't mean anything. It may be broad daylight out there for all he knew. Course he doubted that. He felt that if had been much into the next day, he would have heard from ol' big Ben by now. He tried to reposition himself, but stopped cold as pain shot throughout his body. He wasn't sure how much pain a person could stand, but he had a feeling he was going to find out before it was all over. He tried to keep him mind occupied, not wanting to give thought to just how hungry and thirsty he was. It would do no good. If Boudreaux wanted him to eat, he'd be eating, otherwise, there was nothing he could do about it.

   All thoughts went back to Starsky. Hutch knew him well enough to know exactly what he was going through. Starsky had felt guilt over him wrecking and ending up at Big Ben's' to begin with. He was sure this was eating him up. It wouldn't matter that he left at Hutch's insisting. He was only allowing himself to think that he wasn't' there for him again when he needed him. Hutch knew that was ridiculous, but he also knew he'd be feeling the same way if that tables had been turned.

   He'll find me he thought. He's got to. Not for my sake but for his own.

~~~~~   

   Starsky was next to wake up that morning with Hutch of course being his first thought. A new day. Another chance to find Nick. He tried to stay positive. He had gotten so close yesterday, today had to be the day. He took a shower to wake up, then went to the lobby to buy the paper. It wasn't much of a lobby. Just a counter with a unshaven half asleep man leaning on it. There was one little table with two chairs along side of it. Not a matching set, but nothing in there did. He pulled the paper from the machine and sat long enough to drink the stale coffee the clerk had offered as a free amenity. It tasted as nasty as it smelled, but he needed something to get himself going.

   He looked through the paper, nothing interested him, he couldn't concentrate. Just bought it out of habit really. Until he saw the small article about a local man-hunt under way for an escaped prisoner. He read on as the article told how a kidnapping suspect by the name of "Big" Ben Boudreaux had escaped from the local hospital taking an out of town detective with him. The article went on to warn that the man was dangerous and if sighted, to please contact authorities.

   He was glad to read that, at least folks would read this and be on the look out. He picked up the paper and tucked it under his arm and started to walk out. Thinking twice decided he best leave the paper for the next fella that may not have a quarter. He dropped it on the table, thanked the sleeping clerk and walked out.   

~~~~~~~~~~

   The loud rumbling of a car taking off woke Nick up. His anger at being awakened quickly dissipated as he realized it was already later than he wanted to sleep. He took advantage of the first real shower he'd had since leaving the hospital. It felt good to get really clean for a change. He had washed up from place to place, but hadn't had the opportunity to take a full-fledged shower. He had to finally make himself get out and get dressed.

   He left his room and headed to the lobby to pay his bill. He walked up to the vacant counter and rang the bell. When he rang it the second time he was greeted by a voice yelling to just keep his pants on and someone would be right there. After standing around a few minutes, a paper on the table caught his eye. He picked it up out of curiosity. He had picked up on little words, the rest he liked to make up a story around. It was a way to pass the time...

    He was flipping through when the clerk finally came out from the back.

   "That you ringing?" he asked "where's the fire?"

   "Sorry, just didn't know if anyone was around, I need to pay my bill" replied Nick.

   " Fine, that'll be $7"

    Nick counted out $7 and handed it to the man. "Mind if I take the paper with me?"

   "Nope, some fella left it earlier and I've already read it, so help yourself"

   "Thanks" said Nick and he folded the paper and stuffed it into his back pocket. "Say, you got any kind of food machines around here?"

   "Yep, outside to the left, don't complain to me if something ain't fresh though, they don't come out as often as they should"

   "Thanks, I'll check it out "

   This didn't sound appetizing, but the growling in his stomach told him he need not be to particular at this point. He fished some change out of his pocket and headed over to the machine. The clerk was right, some of the stuff looked like it has sat there awhile. He decided on lemon cookies, somehow the fact that they were lemon made it seem more of a breakfast item. And it helped also that there wasn't anything green growing on them yet. He opened the package as he walked towards the Highway to get started on his new day of travel.

~~~~~~   

   The sounds of the swamp was just the way that Ben liked to greet the morning. It had been the worst part about his hospital stay, just too quiet. He could tell by the outside noises that he had slept in a bit, but that was ok. There wasn't anyplace he had to go, and nothing he had to do. He was feeling a little hung over, but nothing bad. He was even looking forward to hitting the bottle again. But even he liked to enjoy the civilized cup of coffee in the morning.

   After he had seen to putting the coffee on. He unlocked the door to check in on his guest. The flashlight showed the cop to be sleeping. He didn't feel like messing with him just yet. He would drink his coffee, then he would go in and visit a spell.

   As he poured the coffee and scrambled his eggs he started thinking that it was about time to come up with a plan. He wanted to teach that Starsky cop a lesson. But he also thought it could come in handy to have a slave boy around, now that 'brat' was gone. He wanted both. There had to be away to have both. He'd have to give it more thought. But for now, he'd just enjoy breakfast.

   He sure did miss the wife and kid when it came time to clean up, maybe that's what he'd use blondie for. He could be the new maid. He smiled at the thought. Then finished cleaning the last dish. He purposely made the breakfast he had just to drive the cop a little more insane. Nothing like smelling coffee, eggs, and bacon in the morning when you haven't eaten in a few days.

   He lit the lantern and grabbed the keys. He wondered if the idea of no light in that room hadn't backfired on him. But no matter, this was working just fine. He turned the key and walked in. The cop hadn't moved from his spot. Pity, all that bacon for nothing. He apparently hadn't been awake to suffer through it.

   "Hey cop, wake up" Ben said as he gave him an incentive kick.

   Ben was mildly concerned, he couldn't imagine the cop could already be dead, he hadn't even done nothin to him yet. He reached in his pocket, pulled out his pocketknife and cut the rope from Hutch's' wrists. Straddling him, he reached down and pulled the cop's dead weight up and over to prop him up against the wall. He was still breathing, Ben knew that much.

   He walked out and came back with cup of water and threw it in the cops' face. "There we go" Ben said as he noticed some flinching coming from the man. "Hutch could feel the water, but he didn't want to leave where he was. He felt no pain there. He felt nothing at all.

   "Come on Hutchy, you can do it, open them eye balls. Maybe there will even be some breakfast in it for you, whadda say?" Ben was beginning to worry, this won't be any fun at all if he just lays here and dies.

   Ben left and came back with more water.

   "Look what I have for you Hutchy, some nice cold water, I bet you're thirsty, aren't you?" He pulled the tape off and removed the rag from Hutch's mouth. Then held his head back enough to pour water into his mouth. Finally the cop started coughing and coming to.

   Hutch's body couldn't resist the water, even though his mind was willing. He drank all the water offered to him, and still felt as dry as he hadn't had a drop. "More water... please" Hutch whispered.

   "What manners, please and everything. You sit right there, no funny business!"

   Hutch assumed he meant that as a joke, He was to sore, to tired and to hungry. He couldn't lift a finger to save his life right now.

   Ben came walking back in with more water. "Here, best take it 'fore I change my mind, I'm not your caretaker you know"

   Hutch tried to move his arm, but let out a cry and dropped it back down.

   "Hey, you can't fool me, cop that's your good arm, now you gonna take it or ain't cha?"

   "I don't have a good arm anymore" Hutch said, barely audible "Please, help me"

   Ben was feeling very uncomfortable. He didn't bring this man here so he could take care of him. He was his prisoner, for pete's sake. At the same time, however.. if he wanted to keep around a little longer, he was going to have to do just that.

   He reluctantly held the cup up and let the cop drink the rest of the water.

   He pulled a biscuit out of his pocket and laid it on the ground next to hutch's hand. "Here, I'm leaving this here for ya, I will NOT feed you, I have to draw the line somewhere. I'm going to lay it right here, and when you think you're up to it, eat it"

    "Thanks" hutch whispered

   "Oh no you don't. .don't thank me, I'd just as soon kill you as look at you... I'm just making you last till the fun starts" Ben replied as he closed and locked the door behind him.

~~~~~   

   Hutch wasn't even sure where the thank you had come from. How could one say that word to the like of someone like Ben Boudreaux? Hutch hated that man as he has hated few men in his life. But still the gratitude for being allowed a drink at a time when he never thought he'd live long enough to have one, was enough to say it. He was also very thankful his arms were no longer tied behind his back. They both ached terribly, the left arm hurt indescribably so, but being allow to let them fall freely was more than he thought he's see anytime soon. He inched his way down to the ground so that he was lying on his back. He slowly grabbed the biscuit with his right arm and began eating it, also something he thought he'd never do again.

~~~~~   

   It was a weekend and the traffic along the highway at been much better than it had been. The first ride Nick had gotten was a short one. A man going to visit his brother and sister-in-law to get a first look at his new nephew. It was a pleasant ride. Nick had enjoyed the conversation and company. Finally however, the man has come close to his destination so he wished Nick luck and let him off by the side of the road.

   The second ride had come from a husband and wife who, if he had to guess, had an argument before picking him up. Probably about whether or not to pick him up, he thought. They were nice enough and would be going in his direction for sometime.

   "So what are you doing walking around these parts anyway?" The man asked.

   "It's a long story, but I no longer have a home here, and decided it was time to go find a new one" answered Nick.

   "Hey Honey, look... there's a gas station, let's stop. I wanna drink" the woman said.

   "We're not stopping there Lori, we haven't been on the road long enough to be stopping"

   "So we stop when you wanna stop, is that the way it is? Look, they have a coke machine outside, we don't even have to go in"

   "Oh yeah, look at that would ya, he said as they drove by, it was one of those old-timey kinds too"

   Nick and the woman looked as they speed by.

   "You are such a tease! We stop at the next place, or else" Nick heard the woman say has he looked back at the station. Something had caught his eye. A car. It nearly looked like Starsky's car. That was crazy, he was hundreds of miles away. Must have just been a similar looking car he decided.

   He spent the next 15 minutes in total silence. The couple had stopped talking. Actually the husband had tried, the wife was having no part of it. Nick had begun to feel very uncomfortable until he remembered his newspaper. He sat up to reach for it when the car suddenly swerved and stopped.

   "Here, you happy? We stopped.. that's what you wanted isn't it?" The man yelled

   "Oh yeah this just what I wanted, lets stop at a deserted gas station. Everyone knows they have the best sodas"

   "Well folks, if it's all the same to you, I think I'll just let myself out here. Thanks for the ride, I really appreciate it"

   Before he closed the door he heard the husband call him chicken. As they drove away.

   Nick had to laugh. Poor lady was probably never gonna get that soda he thought as he walked on. It took about 20 minutes or so before Nick came to a run down side of the road cafe/gas station. He was starved, and didn't know how far to the next place. He went in and sat at the first booth as he walked in.

   After waiting so long that Nick didn't know if there was anyone even working there or not, an elderly woman came shuffling over to his table.

   "Hello there sonny, sorry to keep you waiting, didn't see you come in. what can I get you?"

   "No problem, can I see a menu?" Nick asked

   "Not much sense in that, all we have today is cold sandwiches... grills not working, don't you know. So, can I get you a sandwich?"

   "I don't know, I have $2.78 to my name. How much are they sandwiches"

   "We're running a special today sonny, it'll run ya $2.78. BUT that includes a soda, so what's your liking?"

   Nick looked down at the table looking rather flustered. "Anything will do, thanks"

   "Right away" she said as he walk off.

   Nick remembered the paper and pulled it out from his back pocket and began looking through it...

   "Here ya go, the $2.78 special, hope you enjoy it"

   "I'm sure I will, thank you, thanks a lot"

   Nick continued to scan the paper as he scarfed his sandwich down. He hadn't even noticed the next two men that had walked in the door. They sat at the counter and began taking inventory of the place. Both appeared to be in their late 20's. Both appeared to have lived life on the rough side.

   Nick had just swallowed the last of his soda and was just about to wad the paper up with the rest of his lunch mess, when something caught his attention. A word he recognized, must be mistaken he thought, but had to sit down and take a better look. It was the name in black and white. Boudreaux... Nick decided to swallow his pride, and called the lady back over to the table.

   "Yeah? What do you need?" the woman asked.

   "I was wondering if you could read this article for me" Nick asked.

   "Sure thing sonny..."

   She went on to read the article.

   He sat back in his booth staring at the paper. This can't be happening. There had to be some mistake. Ben had escaped the hospital? And with a detective... Hutch. Nick looked up at the lady.

   "Do you have a phone I could borrow?" Nick said as he stood up.

   "Sorry son, we don't have a working phone. Was that some bad news for you in the paper?"

   "You could say that, a little trouble back home. Well, thanks for your special. I'll look you up next time I head this way, maybe by then I can get the non-special" answered Nick

   Neither one noticed the men trade glances at hearing the good news.

   "Anytime son. Take care"

   "Hey, you looking for a phone kid?"

   Nick turned to see two men he hadn't given notice to before.

   "Yeah, you know where I can find one?"

   "It's your lucky day, we're just stopping in for a quick drink here.. we have a phone in the car. Wanna try it?" the man asked with a yellow toothed grin.

   Nick didn't give much thought to their appearance. It was how he and Ben looked most all the time.

   "A phone in your car?"

   "Duh, like you've never heard of a cell phone?"

   Nick was blushing, his ignorance has come back to haunt him again.

   "Sure, hasn't everyone? Mind if I use it?"

   "No trouble kid, tell you what, here's the keys, we're the rusty looking station wagon out there... you'll find the phone there in the front. Now go ahead and make your call, we're just getting us a drink, and we'll be right there.

   Nick felt uneasy about the two men, but after what he'd just read in the paper, all he knew was that he needed to get back.

   "Sure, ok... what color is it?"

   "You can't miss it, it's the only rusted out station wagon out there kid"

   Nick grabbed the keys and headed outside... not giving a second thought as to why the men were lagging behind.

   "Ok lady, Open the draw, I want all the money, and I want it now!" said the man is the first barstool.

   The lady looked up in disgust. "You've got to be kidding. You're holding us up?" the lady asked, as she couldn't help laughing.

   "Maybe you didn't hear me old lady, empty you draw, and now!"

   "That's just it, it practically IS empty" she said as she opened the register.

   The second man emptied the register out then demanded her watch and ring.

   "Ok lady, now we're leaving.... You just sit tight until we're out of sight.. that way we don't have to kill you, got it?"

   The lady shook her head yes.

   The two men ran out the door and into the car outside.

   Nick was just getting out of the car after finding no phone.

   "Hey kid, start it up, let's get moving!"

   "No, I don't need a ride" A confused Nick said.

   The dark haired man flashed his gun at the kid.

   "We're not asking, we're telling, not get in and drive"

   Nick didn't know what this was all about, but he's learned not to argue with a gun. He sat back down and started the car up and the others jumped in.

   The man in the front seat held the gun at Nick's head. "What are you waiting for, step on it"

   "I've never driven a car before" said Nick.

   "Great get away play" said the man in the front seat.

   "Look kid, just press on the petal and steer the car.. that's all there is to it."

   Nick stepped on the gas and the car fishtailed onto the highway. Nick could see the elderly man and woman running out of the building yelling.

   "What did y'all do back there?"

   "None of your business" the man in the backseat said has he gave Nick a smack on the head. "You just worry about driving like you were told"

   "Man that was waste of time. They didn't have but $50 in the whole place" said the man in the front seat.

   "You're too greedy Phil. Its 50 bucks more than we had, isn't it?"

   "Oh smooth, Joe! Just give out my name to this punk"

   "So what if he knows our name, it's not like he's going to get a chance to tell anyone" he turned his attention to Nick. You see, we come from a long line of crooks. We just got finished shooting the gas station man a few miles down the road cuz he wanted me to actually pay for the gas... can you imagine such a thing? Then there was that hamburger joint last week... That one got a little ugly. But it was fun. They're always fun"

   "Listen fellas, Nick said in a shaken voice. "I don't care what you've done, it's none of my business. I just got somewhere I need to go."

   "Nope, don't think so" Joe replied. "I don't think you ever need to go anywhere again, if you catch my drift.. .now just keep on driving"   

~~~~~~~~~~

   It was getting late in the afternoon and Ben was growing bored. He was by now, very much drunk and loving it. But there just was no excitement. What good was it having a prisoner, if you don't get to have fun with him, he thought to himself.

   He staggered up and made his way over to the locked door. He fumbled for the keys a good while, then finally opened the door. The cop was lying on his back, looked to be fast asleep. Ben walked over to him and gave him a kick to see if he was.

   Hutch woke up to find Ben standing over him. He wasn't sure what he wanted of him, but it was obvious it wasn't another meal he had in mind.

   "Come on cop, get up, we're going topside to get a little fresh air, doesn't that sound nice?"

   "I'm fine thanks" hutch replied. Immediately regretting his sarcasm, as a painful kick reminded him of whom he was talking to. "I guess this means we're not friends anymore" he said as he made his way first to his knees, then holding up to the wall, managed to stand up.

   "No, THIS means we're not friends anymore" Ben said as he hammered his fist against Hutches jaw. The hit knocked hutch up against the wall.

   "Now, it's nice to know you still have your wits about you, Cop." Ben said as he waited for Hutch to pick himself back up off the floor. "But need I remind you, I'm twice the man you are, and I get mad fast. Think about that before you mouth off next time... now, after you. Oh, and just so you can't say I didn't warn you, I do keep good company" he continued talking as he waved the pistol in Hutch's face, then pushed him forward.

   Hutch held his left arm with his right to try to help minimize movement as they walked. He doubted the arm would ever be back to 100%. He squinted his eyes at the bright light as he left his 'room'.

   "Would you like some sunglasses?" Ben asked sarcastically.

   Hutch didn't answer. He thought he best just bite his tongue and save himself from as much pain as possible. He walked up to the ladder then grabbed it with his right arm and paused... trying to steady himself.

   "Me first Cop, and don't get any ideas, I got a hair-trigger"

   Ben took the lead up the stairs, all the time keeping the gun aimed at Hutch's head.

   "Ok, now you" Ben said after he had gotten half way up"

   Hutch began his monumental trek up the ladder. He grabbed the ladder with his right arm and leaned his body against it as he lifted his foot to the next rung, repeating this routine until he had to stop half way to catch his breath and steady himself.

   "Stairs to much for you there tough guy?

   Again Hutch bit his tongue, took a deep breath, (as deep as he could) then started back up again. His head had just cleared the opening when Ben pulled him up and threw him back down on the ground.

   "Geez man, my grandma could made it up quicker than that, and she's been dead 30 years" Ben said. "Ah, the fresh swamp air, nothing like it, eh Cop?" he took another hit off the bottle and waited for his reply.

   "Yeah" hutch agreed as he tried to sit up "nothing like it"

   "So what do you think, Hutchy boy... you reckon that your partner has left without you? I mean where is he? I got the whole police force out looking for me and here I stand, right on my own property and no one's the wiser. I can understand that from the local yokels. But what about your big time partner? Don't you think he should have figured this out by now?"

   Ben wasn't asking anything Hutch hadn't asked himself. He knew that Starsky wouldn't leave without him. But where was he? He would just have to be patient and wait. The question wasn't would Starsky show, the question was would he be alive when he got there.

   "I said, don't you think he should have this figured out by now?" Ben asked impatiently as he took another drink.

   "Yeah" was hutch's reply.

    "Yeah, well anyhow. Get up. We're going to get a little exercise. We've been cooped up for to long. And since apparently no one is looking for us anymore... it's safe to take a little walk." Ben said as he leveled the gun back down to Hutch.

   Hutch began the arduous task of climbing to his feet.

   "This is such a rush cop, have you ever had a little puppet? The power is awesome. I had it with that brat kid, and now with you. Imagine, just simply saying something makes it so... I tell you to get up, look.. you get up. If I tell you to sit down, you sit down."

   Hutch listened as he leaned against a tree. The line of questioning was beginning to worry him. Just what would he order next.

   "No, never tried it I wouldn't know"

   "Oh sure you've tried it. Every time you tell your prisoners to go here or go there. They do it don't they? And doesn't that do anything for you? Of course it does, why else would you be doing something like that for a living?"

   "That's different" hutch retorted

   "Is it? The only difference is, they're afraid of getting locked up. Where in this case, you're afraid of the unknown. You're afraid of pain. Aren't you cop. You're afraid of me and what I might do to you."

   Hutch looked at Ben with an unrelenting glare. "I... I am NOT afraid of you"

   "OH? Then you explain it. You explain why when I tell you to hop, you ask how high"

   "I don't fear you Boudreaux, I just treasure life. It's a pity you don't know what that's like. The only thing you care about it how much you can drink without passing out."

   "Although there is some truth to that Cop, you're wrong about one thing. There is one thing I care about... I care about seeing fear in the eyes of that hotshot partner of yours, just as he arrives to see you die. I care about that very much. Now let's set out on our adventure. Whadda say?"

   Hutch began walking in the direction Ben instructed. He was in so much pain and was so tired, he just wanted to lay down. He staggered a little further when he saw the crutch. He remembered when it had been dropped there, Never thinking he'd see it again. He saw that Ben's drunken state was growing worse, his walk had begun stumbling. Before he had time to give it rational thought, he dropped and rolled, grabbing the crutch and coming up swinging. He caught Ben quiet off guard and unready to muster up a defense. Hutch swung the crutch as hard as he could swing, hitting Ben in the head. He fell like a toppled tree.

   Hutch started running best he could. Even with a blow like that, Ben could out power him in his state. His best hope would be to just get away. He took off, running as best he could, not giving much thought or care as to where he was going. He just knew he had to run. He ran until his body wouldn't allow another step. As he staggered to slow down, his leg caught on a root, and Hutch himself went crashing to the ground. He laid there stunned, gasping for air. Trying to think but not having the rational to assess the situation. For a few seconds all he could do was lay there. Trying to suck air into his lungs. Trying in desperation to decide what to do next.

   It wasn't his decision to be made. He turned clinging on the vines, trying to pull himself up. He had to move, had to keep moving no matter what. His tired arm wasn't strong enough to pull his weight up and Hutch again fell to ground. This time however he had company. Hutch was staring at the biggest alligator he had ever seen, who was he kidding. It was the only alligator he had ever seen. It stood 3 feet away, mouth open ready to attack. Hutch didn't know much about alligators, but there was no doubt he was ready to attack.

   Hutch looked wildly for anything to use as a weapon. It was then that Hutch saw why the alligator was so mad. Hutch saw eggs lying next to him. He had stumbled onto a nest.

   For that instant Hutch wasn't aware of being tired. Wasn't aware of pain. All he was aware of was the alligator looked ready to pounce.

   It darted towards him, and he was able to roll out of the way. But the second charge was too quick. Before Hutch had time to think about moving, his left leg was in the mouth of the alligator. It clenched its teeth and dug in. Hutch let out a pain filled scream and looked around for anything, anything he could hit the reptile with. But there was nothing.

   A quiet still fell. The gator stopped thrashing, and seemed momentarily happy to lay still with Hutch's thigh in it's mouth. Hutch tried with all his might not to move a muscle. As movement caused the gators grasp to sink further into his leg. It seemed like an eternity before the gator made a move, finally with grip just as tight as it had been. Hutch was slowly being dragged into the swamp. He grabbed frantically at anything he could used to grab hold off, but there was nothing. His legs and torso were now under water. Hutch found himself in the middle of everything, wondering what a L.A. cop was doing in the mouth of an alligator in the middle of swampland USA. Just as his drained body was pulled under, Hutch heard a muffled noise.

   Just then the pressure on his leg loosened and he realized he was free. He tried to pull himself up out of the murky waters, but didn't have the strength. He was surprised at feeling a hand pulling his arm. Pulling him until his head was clear of the water.

   It was Ben, standing there looking quite amused with a shotgun in his hand. "Take a look cop, looks like he's coming back for more"

   Hutch turned to see the huge reptile coming back.

   "Now, you wanna tell me again how you're not afraid?"

    Hutch felt panic build as he turned and no longer saw the gator.

   "Help me outta here, please!"

   "She's coming and you know it, she's fixin to grab you and take you down... now tell me, are you afraid now?" he paused waiting for a reply

   "Yes, yes, I'm afraid, just help me out of here"

   Ben pulled hutch out just as the alligator came up for a bite. Ben lowered the gun and fired.

   "Shame, I hated to kill the poor thing, but you made her angry, she would have been to deadly to live with"

   "Thanks" Hutch said

   "Again, you're gratitude is misplaced. I only pulled you out because she would have eaten you clean to the bone. There would have been nothing left for your Starsky to cry over. Now, I think we've had enough excitement for one day."

   There was no reply. Hutch had already passed out.

   Ben picked him up and slung him over his shoulder carrying him back to his hideout.

~~~~~   

   The place looked old and run down, but Starsky wasn't passing up any place that looked like it could have been a eating or watering hole for Nick. He pulled his car up and pulled to a stop as a elderly man came running out.

   "We've been robbed! Get help, we've been robbed"

   "Easy there Mister" Starsky said, "slow down. Let's go inside and you can tell me what happened."

   "I'll tell you what happened" an elderly woman said in disgust. "These two men came in here and stuck a gun in my face and took all my money, that's what happened."

   "Ok, anyone get hurt?"

   "Nope, just took the money, said if we came outside, they'd blow our head off"

   "Well it's a good thing you stayed inside"

   "George did no such thing. I told him he better get out there and get the license number or something"

   George avoided Starsky's glance.

   "And you went out there George, after they warned you?"

   "Had to, I'd never hear the end of it if I hadn't" he replied sheepishly

   Starsky found himself smiling at the couple.

   "So what did you see George?"

   "Saw the two jump in a old rusted out station wagon... couldn't read the plates though"

   "That's right, stuck his neck out for nothing. He can't see more than two feet in front of him."

   "But you're sure it was a station wagon? An no particular color, just rusted out?"

   "That's right "

   "Well I'll tell you what, I'm a cop... I'll call this in for you, but first I was wondering if you've seen someone come through here. He's about 18. Blonde, blue eyes. Nice quiet young fella?"

   "Sure, I saw him" said the lady. "I feed him lunch. He didn't have the money to pay for it all, but he looked like a nice enough sort. I think the two robbers took him."

   "What do you mean, took him?" Starsky asked. "Please, tell me what happened."

   The lady went on to describe the events as they took place.

   "...near as we can tell, they suckered him into driving the getaway car"

   "This is important, is there anything else you can tell me about the car?"

   "Nah, you know what they say... it all happened so fast... All I know is that it was a rusty looking older station wagon.. Well one thing does come to mind, it was smoking up a storm... wouldn't' be surprised if they're pulled over up the road, all broken down."

   "Thanks!" Starsky said as he ran out of the place. "I'm calling this in right away, someone should be here shortly"

   Starsky hurried to the car and radioed the police station

   "Yeah well, I'm not sure which district that is, that's your business, all I know is that I happened on to this place and the folks say they've been robbed. I told them I would call it in"

   Starsky hung up, not having the patience to deal with anymore questions. He gave them the information they would need to get to the cafe.. He had bigger fish to fry....

~~~~~   

   "Come on fellas, I have something I gotta do, can't you just let me out? I swear, I never saw you." pleaded Nick.

   "How bout it Joe, can we just let him out here?" Phil asked with obvious sarcasm

   "Sure thing, just a little further, and you'll be home free kid. Just make sure you're doing the speed limit. If we get pulled over, you're dead."

~~~~~   

   Starsky was no longer mindful of the speed. He knew time was slipping away. That if it weren't too late already, it soon would be. He hadn't heard anything new from Dobey or Quaid, which meant, they hadn't turned up anything. His only hope still rested on finding Nick.

~~~~~   

   "Hey Phil, we need to stop soon. I gotta go"

   "Did you hear that kid? Joe's gotta go."

   "I heard, so where do we pull over?"

   "Ya know what? We passed a rest area back down the road a bit. Cross over, we're heading back."

   "You sure we wanna do that Phil? I mean go back to the scene of the crime?"

   "Oh stop being melodramatic. We're not going to the scene of the crime... we're just backtracking... no one would think to look for us to do that"

   Nick's hesitation cost him as Joe sat up determined to make his point. He struck Nick with the pistol. "NOW kid, you didn't hear the man? Turn around now!"

   Nick groaned in pain and the car swerved as he grabbed his head. He felt dizzy, the road spinning in front of him. He felt the warmth of blood run down his face.

   Phil grabbed the wheel "are you nuts? For future reference, no pistol whipping the driver" He slide over and managed to reach the brake with his left foot.. he brought the car to an vicious off road stop.

   Joe and Phil climbed back on to the seat after being thrown from the abrupt halt.

   "What a marshmallow, I barely touched the dude" Joe said as he tried to steer blame away from himself.

   "Look at him Joe, man. He's out cold and blood is flowing like a fountain, I think it was more than a touch"

   "Yeah well, he's dead meat anyway, what do we care"

   "We don't Joe, but we do care about the driver not being able to drive, get the picture?"

   "Whatever, hey Phil, we got company" Joe said as he saw that a few cars had pulled over to make sure they were ok"

   "Quick, get the gun out a sight. Let me do the talking" Phil insisted

   He quickly pulled Nick up and tried to act like he cared as someone tapped on the window.

   "Hey" a man yelled through the window "y'all ok in there?"

   Phil rolled the window down just enough to converse, making sure his face was never seen.

   "Yeah, my buddy here got a pretty nasty bump from hitting the steering wheel, I think he's going to be fine though, thanks"

   "You sure you don't need help? Don't want me to call an ambulance? Those head wounds can be tricky."

   "Thanks man, I got a phone right here, so everything is under control, but thanks for your help"

   He wasn't sure he convinced them, but finally the cars began driving off, going about their business.

   "Lets just shoot him now and get out of here"

   "To much traffic, no, we'll stick to my original plan, there's a rest area up a few miles, we'll do it there."

   Phil got out of the car and walked around to the driver's side. He opened the door and pushed the semi-conscious kid aside. He suddenly turned and pointed his gun at the stunned man in the back.

   "Don't you EVER try anything like that again! Think next time, I mean geez man, he was driving the damn car"

   "Ok Ok" Joe relented "I got carried away and I wasn't thinking, but you have to admit, we've had tougher knocks then that, and didn't bat an eye"

   Phil turned, giving no response started up the car. And drove off.   

~~~~~~~~~~

   Starsky made himself slow down as the speedometer caught his eye. He had to make a conscious effort not to let his foot get too heavy on the petal. He scanned the road up ahead, seeing no car in sight. He should have caught up to them by now. Had they turned off?

   Just then he saw it. It was the smoke coming towards him in the opposite lane that first caught his eye. And as it passed it he saw a rusted out station wagon. Every fiber in his being wanted to U-turn right there, but he had just hit a stretch of the hwy that was passing over the local town. He'd have to drive on until the concrete barrier was gone.

~~~~~   

   Phil pulled onto the side road marked rest area and followed it up past the one other 18- wheeler that was stopped. Phil wasn't worried about him. They pulled over al the time to sleep in the truck. He gradually came to a stop and scanned his surroundings. Not a car or person in site.

   "Come on, let's do it..." Phil instructed "Come around and let's get him out"

   Joe climbed out of the backseat and opened the passenger side door. Nick was lying half on the seat and half on the floor of the car. Joe grabbed him from under his arms and yanked him up.

   Nick began to come to. He was aware his was being moved and also aware that his head was killing him.

   "What.. What happened" Nick asked to whoever it was that had a hold of him.

   "Nothin' kid, you might as well go back to sleep, that way you miss the sad painful ending"

   Joe threw Nicks arm around his neck and picked him up by this belt. Then began half walking and half dragging him to a wooded area behind the restrooms.

   Nick knew what was coming. He knew they wanted him dead. He also knew he was powerless to stop it. So he thought to himself there are others like Ben out here

    Joe took him to where Phil was waiting. He stood with a knife in his hand and a smile on his face. It had always worried Joe the way Phil enjoyed making people suffer. Worried that he would want it bad when only he was around. It had never happened, but it didn't stop him from thinking about it.

   "Oh Yeah, it's time for a little fun. Whadda ya say... Where are my manners? What is your name anyway?"

   Nick didn't answer, not right away.

   Joe leaned over and whispered in his ear. "You're dead man, no doubt about that, but he can make it ugly, if you know what I mean"

   "Oh is that your counsel advising you? And what is your plea boy? To tell me your name or not to tell me your name?"

   "Nick, my name is Nick" he said with a odd sense of pride.

   "Now that's better. And of course Nick, you already know our names. But for the record, My name is Phil and that there is Joe. Now we can get on with things"

   Nick felt his stomach ache from being in knots. He had faced fear with Ben but that didn't compare. He was really scared for himself. In the millisecond he had to sort his thoughts. He didn't think it was dying he was worried about. It was the getting there.

   "K, now you hold 'em real tight, won't ya Joe?"

   "I don't know Phil, don't you think I oughta be the look out?"

   "Turning yella again, are ya? You don't think I figured on that? Here," he continued to give instructions as he threw Joe some rope. "Tie him to the tree there. I knew it, You're real tough with the pistol in the backseat when he's not looking, ain't ya. No, this is the thrill boy, lookin eye to eye." Phil rambled on as Joe tied Nick up to the tree as per his orders.

   "Ok ya chicken, turn tail and run, I'll finish things here. Oh, one more thing Joe" Phil said innocently

   Just as Joe turned to see what more was wanted from him, he watched as Phil plunged the knife into Nicks arm, just below the shoulder.

   Nick cried out in pain, and Joe turned away.

   "Be a man Joe, that was child's play. That didn't even draw real blood. Now come back here and tie that bandana of yours in his mouth, don't wanna draw attention to ourselves, do we Nick."

   "You're one sick puppy Phil," Joe said as he pulled the bandana tight. "Now if it's all the same to you, I'll go play lookout now" Joe said as he walked away.

   Nick was terrified to think what the next few minutes would hold for him. Somehow he figured the biting pain he felt in his arm was nothing compared to what laid ahead.

   Phil pulled the knife out of Nick's arm. Ignoring the cry of pain.

   He ran the knife from the kid's throat, down his abdomen. Holding the knife at the slightest angle, enough to draw just a hint blood has he went.

   Nick felt lightheaded. He knew he was close to losing consciousness. But still not close enough. How he wished Joe would have knocked him a little harder.

   "We got incoming!" Joe called out.

   "Damn... Ok," Phil finally said. "You lucked out kid, don't have time to play right now, but make no mistake, you have to die, So what is your liking? Slit throat, or perhaps through the heart?"

   Nick looked the man in the eyes and waited.

   "Very well," said Phil... "I'll chose"

   He pulled Nicks head back and held the knife to his throat.

   The knife began to pierce the skin.

   Nick closed his eyes

    And just as the blade sank deeper, and Nick knew his life was over.... a shot rang out.

~~~~~   

   Nick had retreated so deep within himself, he gave no reaction to hearing the shot. He was only vaguely aware that his head was being raised back up.

   "Nick?"

   "Nick? Can you hear me?" He knew the voice, he allowed himself to journey back to reality. He opened his eyes and immediately fell limp within the ropes. He knew he was going to ok now. He blacked out.

   Starsky picked the knife up from the ground and began cutting Nick free. It made him sick to think what the boy must have been through.

   He looked at the dead man. At least it wouldn't happen again. He thought to himself as he quickly looked Nick over making sure there were no life threatening wounds.

    When he was satisfied that Nick could be moved, he carefully picked him up and carried him to his car. He opened the front door and placed him down in the front seat. He grabbed a shirt he had in the back and ripped in into pieces then rapped the knife wound on the boy's arm. It wasn't life threatening, but he imagined it was going to be painful enough. He turned Nick's head to expose the cause for the dried blood that had run down the side of his face. He took a piece of the shirt and ran it under the water fountain that was out in front of the restrooms. Then carefully cleaned the blood away until he was able to see the wound. It had already begun bruising and was swollen. There was a gash that had proven to be the source of the blood.

   He grabbed his first aid kit from the trunk and bandaged Nick's head wound. Then did the same to the superficial cut on his throat. When he was satisfied he was going to ok, he climbed into the driver seat and picked up the radio as he peeled out.

   He put a call into Quaid and recounted everything had just taken place. He told him he could find the one handcuffed to the bathroom plumbing, and the other man was dead. He went on to tell him that he would be bringing Nick back with him and hopefully he'd have some idea where to look for hutch. After he had brought the sheriff up to date, he asked if he'd alert the local authorities, and also pass it along to Dobey.

    Quaid was happy to comply. He had no doubt that things had gone down the way the detective had described. He felt bad at having to report no news on his end, But told Starsky to call on him when they got back into town, he'd be happy to do anything he could.

   With that taken care of Starsky had little to do but head back and wait for Nick to come too. He wouldn't feel comfortable until he regained consciousness. He hadn't stopped second- guessing himself for not getting Nick proper help. What if his injuries had required professional attention. Was he willing to put Nick's life in jeopardy for Hutch's sake? It didn't matter how many times he told himself that he made the correct decision in determining that the wounds were not life threatening. He wouldn't truly believe it until he woke up and told him he was fine.

~~~~~   

   Hutch came to grabbing his leg from the unimaginable pain. His howl traveled throughout the underground fortress. As he looked down to find his leg crudely bandaged it took him a few seconds to even remember what had happened. But it all fell back on him has he saw the blood soaked rags.

   Alligator, he still couldn't believe it. How does a grown man end up in the mouth of something that crawls on the ground?

    Pain had now become a constant companion. Hutch knew he wasn't thinking straight, but still... he couldn't help wondering where his partner was. He's had plenty of time to find this place, to find me. Doesn't he know that I need him? No sooner had the thought been formed, he tried to reason with himself. He knew his partner would never leave him. No, he didn't know why it was taking so long, but he had no doubts that Starsky would show up. His last thoughts were of Starsky as he passed out again.

~~~~~   

   Ben was blissfully sleeping it off when he awoke to a scream. Even drunk he recognized what it was right away. That stupid cop who let himself get half eaten by a gator. What a city boy, walked right smack dab in the middle of a gator nest. And they can him dumb, he thought.

   He got to his feet and walked back to the cell door. He shined the flashlight on his guest, but found him sleeping again.

   "Don't think you'll recover from this now, cop. I sure wish you're buddy would come along so I could at least have a little fun with you before you're gone. Course, you partner not knowing you're gone, would still work to my advantage."

~~~~~   

   Starsky was making good time, now that he didn't have to stop at every roadside stop he saw. He had just about decided he needed to stop and find directions to nearest medical facility, when Nick start showing signs of coming to. Starsky pulled over.

   "Nick? Can you hear me?" Starsky asked

   Nick's eyes slowly opened. His face immediately was proving the recognition of who he was with.

   " Hey Starsky. It's true, You really were there"

   "Don't think about that now, you're safe. How do you feel?'

   "Fine, I think. Got a bit of a headache, and my arm stings. But I'm fine, thanks to you! What a rescue that was! I had absolutely no doubt that I was a dead man!" Nick began reliving it. "He had the knife to my throat. I felt the blade cut into my skin" He raised his hand to his bandaged neck. "Then I closed my eyes and waited"

   "Come on Nick, don't think about it now. You're going to be fine. Just relax and get some sleep"

   "Where are we going?" Nick asked before he dozed off.

   "You leave that to me. Right now, just rest"

   Nick laid his head back down, and knowing he was in good hands, allowed himself to relax.

   Starsky was relieved to see that the boy was going to ok. Not just for his own sake, but it surely has to be good news in finding Hutch. He saw no need to bother him about it yet, They still has a ways to drive, and Nick had been through enough for right now.

   He sat thinking as he drove on, how he wished he had a dime for every time he and Hutch had been in a jam since joining the force. He could have retired a rich man by now. And each time seemed worse then the time before. But somehow they made it through. However he could remember thinking just like he was now, if this time the story would have a different ending. How many times can a person skirt death? He tried to push the negative thoughts away, tired to be positive. But he had to face reality. Hutch was in bad enough shape when first taken. Ben wasn't running a hospital, so it was a safe bet that he wasn't in any better shape now then when he was taken.

   What was Hutch thinking? Has he given up on being found? Has Hutch given up on him? Once again that gnawing pain was eating away at his insides. The kinda of pain you have as you watch tragedy unfold without being about to help. But this was worse. This wasn't just some tragedy happening to just anyone... This was his Hutch. His other and sometimes better half. No! He couldn't allow himself to think the worst! He'd find Hutch, and that was all there was to it!

~~~~~   

   Hutch wasn't doing very much thinking anymore. He drifted back from consciousness to unconsciousness, sometimes without knowing the difference. The world had become a fuzzy reality. He went back and forth from freezing cold one minute, to burning up the next. From time to time his head would be clear. Clear enough to know he was in trouble. Clear enough to know that still Starsky was no where to be found. There were even times when he'd swear Starsky was in the room with him. But all he had to do was merely blink a few times to know that nothing had changed. That he was all alone.

~~~~~   

   "So, you wantin something to eat in there, cop? I haven't heard much from ya lately, you must be getting hungry" Ben asked.

   He was becoming increasingly worried about his guest. Not so much worried for his well being. Just worried he wouldn't be living long enough to serve his purpose. He decided he best go in and take a look.

   He opened the door and proceeded with his lantern. The cop was curled up on the floor, seemingly asleep. He walked over, placed the lantern down, and then rolled the cop over.

   "Hey Hutchy... what gives, I haven't heard much from ya..."

   Ben knew what it was, he has seen it many times before. The cop had fever. His gator wounds must have gotten infected. He could see the man having the shakes. He could see the wound red and swollen. There was little doubt. It wouldn't be long now.

   He was surprised to see the cop coming around...

   "Starsk, is that you?"

   Ben didn't say anything.

   "Starsk? I see you. Why won't you help me buddy? I'm so cold... so sick... please Starsk... please help me"...

   Man you are sick, if you think I'm that rotten cop This could be fun, he thought to himself....

   "Yeah Hutch, it's me alright, you're ol' pal Starsky. What do you expect me to do hutch?"

   "Starsk... get... get me outta here... please..."

   "And why should I hutch? Why should I care what happens to you?"

   The confusion was obvious on hutch's face. He was trying to put the reality of what he was hearing with the reality of his life with Starsky. They weren't going together. This wasn't the Starsky he loved, and needed so badly.

   Hutch looked at the man...

   His eyesight blurred, his sickness taken hold... it was Starsky. He was sure of it. He was standing in front of him. But why.. why wouldn't he help?

   "Starsk? It hurts buddy. Can't you just get me out of this place? I wanna go home."

   "Sorry buddy, I don't think I can do that. I think I'm just going to leave you here. You understand don't you? I've got a new partner... I don't need you anymore Hutch."

   Hutch was shivering uncontrollably now. He was no longer able to play Ben's sick little game. Ben didn't care. It was fun while it lasted, and the best part was that he thought it was his partner. He really believed it!

   Hutch knew he was in a bad way, he knew he wasn't in his right mind. But he saw him, he talked to him. Why? Why would he leave me here? Hutch took those thoughts with him as he drifted back into blackness.   

~~~~~~~~~~

   They were close to being back, but Starsky couldn't drive another mile. He wasn't able to keep his eyes open and Nick was in no shape to drive. Starsky was forced into stopping at a roadside inn. It killed him to stop, they were so close, but he had no choice.

   He helped Nick into the room and over to one of the beds.

   "You hungry Nick? I think I'm going to see what kind of food they have to offer here. Can I get you something?"

   "Sure, just whatever you're having, thanks"

   "Ok, you rest, and I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere"

   "Are you kidding me? Being with you is the safest bet right now"

   Starsky smiled and walked out. He had decided... after they ate, he would tell Nick about Hutch and see if he had any clues as to where he might be. They'd get to bed early and be back on the road first thing in the morning.

~~~~~   

   He didn't know when the last time was that he been on a bed so conformable, if ever! Matter of fact the one he had bought and paid for shouldn't even be allowed to be called a bed. The two had nothing in common! Course, then again... after what he had just been through, being so sure that he wasn't going to live to see another day, a bed of nails would probably be fine with him at this point.

   He was so grateful to Starsky for showing up when he did. When he had closed his eyes, he had done so never expecting to open them again. He owed these two guys so much. Hutch for forever changing his life. And Starsky for still having one.

~~~~~   

   The door flew open and in walked Starsky trying to balance sodas, burgers and fries all at the same time. Nick got up to help him.

   "Oh no no... sit... I've got it" Starsky said as he kicked the door shut and made his way over to the nightstand.

   "They didn't have a lot to offer, but if you're even half as hungry as I am, then this will do just fine!"

   "Starved, thanks Starsky" Nick said as he took one of the burgers and began to eat. A look for sudden acknowledgement was on his face.

   "Hutch! I found a paper at the last hole in the wall I was at, it said that Hutch was missing along with Ben, is that true?"

   Starsky felt relieved at not having to bring it up himself.

   "Yes Nick, Boudreaux escaped and took hutch with him. There hasn't been any sign of either one of them since"

   "He's just plain crazy. He's out of his mind. I knew he could be mean, but I never thought he'd take on the law and everyone else like this."

   "Well he has... I wasn't there at the time. I had promised hutch that I'd go looking for you. He was really worried about you being out there alone, so was I for that matter! And it was when I had left that Boudreaux made his move. The local police have searched high and low for him Nick. They can't find him anywhere. Do you have any idea, any idea at all where they might be?"

   Nick stopped eating. Starsky could see the wheels turning. The fact that he hadn't said no right away, gave him hope.

   "You say they've checked out the shack?" Nick asked...

   "Yes" a dejected Starsky answered. "that was the first place they checked"

   "Well, my mind is still reeling from everything that's happened. Just let me think on it, and I'll see what I can come up with. You two are pretty close, aren't you?"

   He was surprised to see a smile come across the worried detective's face.

   "You could say that. We've been through a lot together, and it's made us the best of friends. It's a wonderful thing in the good times. But in these bad times, it's a curse. When something happens to hutch, it's as if it's happening to me. I can't explain it, but he's... well he's just part of me... Siamese Twins that have been separated before birth. He feels it, I feel it, he hurts, I hurt. And I don't' mind telling you Nick, I'm hurting right now. More than I can say" The smile was gone.

   "I'm sorry Starsky, I didn't mean to upset you. I knew there was something special about you two. I could tell by the way he talked about you. Don't worry. We'll find him. You'll see... Everything is going to be ok, it has to be!"

   "Thanks Nick. I hope you're right. I don't mean to pressure you. Take as long as you need. Just keep in mind, Hutch is with that lunatic. The sooner we find him, the better"

   "You don't have to tell me that, Starsky, I lived with that lunatic my whole life! I'm sorry I can't think of anything right now. My mind is a jumbled mess, but I'm sure I'll come up with something... but for now, I'm gonna turn in. I'm very tired... Thanks for the dinner.. and the room, oh and my life"

   "It's the least I can do for all you did for Hutch! You were there for him when I couldn't be, you took care of him when I couldn't... I'll never be able to thank you for that. Now... enough with this mushy stuff... You need to get some rest, and I'll do the same. Sleep fast, because I plan to be outta of here first thing in the morning. We're so close, I don't wanna burn anymore time then we need to"

   "Don't have to tell me twice Starsky... I'm going to sleep like a baby! I've been sleeping mainly outside, wherever I could find a place. The only time I bought a room, it was terrible. Granted it only cost 7 bucks a night, I don't think it was worth even that. But I'm thankful I stopped in, otherwise I wouldn't have found the newspaper that was on the table in the lobby. I would never have known about Ben and Hutch."

   Starsky started putting the pieces together. $7 room, very bad beds, paper on the stand.

   "What was the name of this place you stayed at?"

   "Really classy name, it was called The Sleep cheap motel."

   "You're not gonna believe this. I was there at that same run down hotel. That paper you picked up was the paper I threw down. I can't believe this. If we could have just crossed paths"

   "We could already be back by now. I could have missed the experience of nearly being killed in the middle of no where. The powers that be sure aren't making this easy for us."

   "No kiddin." Starsky was still shakin' his head in disbelieve. "No sense dwelling on it, but that's just hard to believe. Same night, same hole in the wall... I think I'd rather not have known that, makes me sick to think this could be over by now"

   "Come on Starsky, like you said, dwelling on it does no one any good. Let's just get some rest. If I'm not up when you're ready, just wake me up." Nick scooted down in the bed, not even realizing he was holding the bandage around his neck. Before Starsky had time to tell him goodnight, he was fast asleep.

   "Night kid, I'm right behind you!" Starsky laid in the bed for several minutes, still "dwelling" until finally his tired body forced his mind to sleep.

~~~~~   

   Hutch woke up with momentary clarity. He knew he was burning up with fever. It was too dark to see of course, but he was sure he knew what was wrong... His wound had become infected. It hurt so badly. He knew that if he didn't get help soon he would die. He had a flash ... Starsky? Starsky was here earlier? He was sure of it, but at the same time, he knew it wasn't true. He talked to him... he answered... But not the right answers. Starsky would never leave him here, but he did.... His clarity began to waiver... Starsky had been here, he told him he didn't need him anymore. Told him.... NO! Not Starsky... Not possible!!...

   "Boudreaux!!!! What's going on?!!!! What game are you playing? It won't work"... hutch fell back and began coughing... "it won't work" he said again more faint this time. The darkness of the room enveloped him. Again he feel into unconsciousness.

   Big Ben hadn't heard a word. He was sleeping in drunken bliss, with a bottle in one arm, a shotgun in another... and a smile on his face.

~~~~~   

   "I'VE GOT IT!" Nick yelled as he sat up in bed.

   Starsky bolted out of bed. Then stopped as he realized where he was. He looked over at the clock. 7:32am.

   "Man kid, you nearly gave me a heart attack!"

   "I've got it, Starsky... I dreamed it actually... I know where they are!"

   "Well don't keep me in suspense, boy..."

   "They're back on the property!"

   Starsky's excitement faded.

   "There's nothing there kid. It's been checked and checked again"

   "No, listen... I remember one day.. it's been awhile now... but one day I came across something, it was a hole in the ground. I spotted Ben going in and out from time to time, but to tell you the truth, I never cared enough to find out what it was for. I don't think he ever even knew that I knew about it."

   "I don't understand, how could he and hutch be in a hole?"

   "No, not a regular hole, it was like an underground room, I could see that much for sure. I haven't given that place any thought at all, till now. I dreamed about it!"

   "You're sure... you're not still confusing your dream w/reality.. You know of an underground room on the property?"

   "No doubt about it Starsky. That's got to be where they are. Ol' Big Ben didn't know anyone or anywhere else to go"

   "You up to driving some more?" Starsky asked with the eagerness of a child wanting to ride his new bike on Christmas morning.

   "Don't worry about me, I'm fine... let's go" Nick followed Starsky out of the room and into the car. "How far out are we?"

   "To get back to Ben's' place... it'll be about 2 more hours, depending on how fast I dare to drive"

   "Dare to drive fast, would ya?"

   "As fast as I can get away with! I think you just might be on to something. Ben had no where else to go. The sheriff searched the property and came up empty... but they didn't know to check underground. I have a good feeling about this"

   "Yep, but 2 more hours? A lot can happen in 2 hours. Do you think you oughta call the sheriff?"

   "No way, it would practically take them that long to get organized. Besides, I don't trust Hutch to anyone but me."

   Nick knew better than to argue the point. These two were tight, no doubt about that. How wonderful it must be to have someone mean so much and be such a part of ones life. Conflict was the only thing he felt since living with his stepfamily. He wondered if he'd ever be able to be a part of a "normal" relationship. One thing was sure, he was learning a lot about friendship from his new friends.

~~~~~   

   Ben took another drink as he woke up. Still quiet. Lame cop is probably dead by now. He laughed. Still can't believe he walked right into a nest. City folk!

   He pulled his huge body to its feet and dragged both the shotgun and the bottle with him to get a look at the idiot cop. He fumbled with the keys then after unlocking the door, through them across the room. "Wont' be needing to lock up anymore" He laid the gun down and picked up the lantern. He staggered into the dark room and saw the man lying just where he'd left him. He made his way over and used his leg to turn the man onto his back.

   He was somehow still alive. He knew this from the sweat still pouring off the man. Dead people don't sweat do they he asked himself. He staggered back out and filled a pitcher with water and went back in. He figured the man was too far-gone to actually drink anything. Ben was still hoping to make him last long enough for his dumb sidekick to arrive. But he was beginning to worry that the sidekick was too stupid, and this cop to sick for that to happen. He knelt down and tried pouring water down his throat. Then tired of playing nursemaid and threw the rest of the water out on the cops face. There was no sign of him coming around.

   "Oh well" he said aloud... when the dumb sidekick does show, he won't know. I'll still have my fun. He left the room with lantern and bottle in hand. He stopped to look at the cop through the open door. "You hear that Hutchy? You first, him next"

~~~~~   

   "I want you to listen to me Nick. When we get there, I want you to stay in the car. I don't know what this guy has in mind, if anything. But I don't wanna have to worry about you as well as Hutch, you got it?"

   "But what if I can help? Aren't 2 against 1 much better odds?"

   "Only if the two are trained and know what they're doing. Nothing personal Nick, but you don't qualify"

   "I think living with that man all these years ought to qualify me for something."

   "Just tell me you'll stay back"

   "Fine! Have it your way"

~~~~~   

   Ben could hear a car approaching. He was very excited. He picked a pistol from the table in from of him and ran to the lookout spot.

   "Showtime" he said aloud. "You see cop, he came after all."

~~~~~   

   The Torino skidded to a stop as Starsky jumped out with gun drawn. He ran low and took cover behind some empty barrels. He worked his way up to being within a few feet of the shed.

   "Boudreaux, I know you in there. It's over. Come out with your hands up"

   Ben was furious. How could he have known about his hiding place?! How?!... The BRAT!, he somehow knew. Again he ruins everything. Rage began to swell in the intoxicated man. This is what he had been waiting for. It's why he put up with the lame cop...

   He ran to the cop, rapping his fist around his shirt, dragged him towards the door. Then let go and let him fall. "I fed you, didn't I feed you?" He asked as he looked at the lifeless cop. "I gave you water, didn't I? And for what? I'll tell you for what! So that brat could come along and ruin everything!"

   "Ben! I'm warning you. If you don't come out now, I'm coming in shooting"

   "And risk hurting your partner here? I don't think so Starsky. So who's the big shot now, uh?"

   "What do you want Ben?"

   "See, I knew you'd see things my way. First of all, I want you to walk in here unarmed"

   "Oh sure, so you shoot me dead, how stupid do you think I am?"

   "That's not a request, you come out now, or the next noise you hear will be a hole being put into your partners head... yeah, right between the eyes would do nicely"

   Starsky stood paralyzed as he remembered his dream. It was dejavu all over again. He felt helpless. Finally he decided to take the chance. He began walking towards the opening as he dropped his gun. But something went wrong. His gun, it went off as it hit the ground, firing off several shots before lying still on the ground.

   "You just had to play the big shot, didn't you? Well you had your chance cop, say goodbye to your buddy"

   "No wait, you don't understand"

   "I think I understand all right cop..."

   The next noise he heard was a gunshot. Then silence.

~~~~~   

   "NOOOOOOOO, HUTCH!! BOUDREAUX?! I'M GONNA KILL YOU" Starsky screamed as he dropped down in the hole. He was confused. There were two bodies lying on the ground. Ben was clearly dead from a gunshot. Then his eyes fixed on the other still figured lying lifeless. It was Hutch. dead, Starsky told himself. He couldn't look like that and still be alive He snapped out of it and ran over to his partner.

   Nick was down by then.

   "Look at this place. He's made himself an entire home underground." Then his eyes fell on Ben. Lying with his eyes open and a look for surprise still evident on his face.

   "How is he Starsky? How's hutch"

   No reply.

   Nick could see what had happened. Somehow Hutch managed to get to the shotgun. He still had it in his hands. It had apparently caught Ben unaware.

   "Hutch?! Hutch, answer me! Come on buddy. I'm here, I'm with you you're going to be fine. You hang on Hutch, do you hear me? HANG ON!" Starsky laid his head on Hutch and started crying."

   "Come on Starsky, Let's get him to the car" Nick said.

   Starsky sat up as if someone had just slapped him. He gently picked Hutch up and walked over to the ladder.

   "Let me go first, I'll help pull him up from the top" Nick offered

   Starsky didn't say a word, but stepped aside and let Nick go first.

   After Nick was top side, Starsky had to put Hutch over his shoulder then started up the ladder. Once Nick could reach, he held the lifeless man from under is arms and pulled him up.

   "BE CAREFUL!" Starsky shouted. "His leg, watch his leg"

   "Got 'em Starsky" Nick assured him.

   Before Nick could say another word, Starsky was out.

   "Let me have him!" Starsky insisted.

   "He's heavy Starsky let me help"

   Nick couldn't believe the ease to which Starsky picked up Hutch. He made picking up dead- weight look like he was picking up a feather. He ran to the car, opened the door and pushed the seat forward.

   Starsky laid Hutch down in the back seat, then ran to the other side.. crawled in and raised Hutch up enough to lay in his lap. Never saying a word.

   Nick felt uncomfortable. Like he was intruding on someone's intimate moments. Like he didn't belong. But he didn't take offense to Starsky's actions. It was obvious that each other were all they needed and all they wanted.

~~~~~   

   The Drive to the hospital was quiet. Nick kept his eye on the road and not in the back seat. He wanted to allow them their privacy. He could hear Starsky whispering. He figured he was either praying or talk to Hutch, maybe both. He said a silent prayer as he drove. He'd never met two nicer, caring people. They deserved to get a happy ending to this tragedy. A tragedy Nick still felt responsible for.

PART FOUR