Chapter one 

She quietly walked over to the limp form which hung like a rag doll suspended in midair by a crude pair of rusty old shackles. Her cold heart going out to this young man whom she had come to respect greatly, after all he had been more than just an enemy or an often reluctant ally, He had also saved her pretty butt on several occasions. She reached up to him with a warm cloth hoping to return to him atleast some dignity by bathing him, besides he truly was quite a sight to behold in many people's eyes, and Charity Butler was no exception. Charity also knew that her father Al Russassa otherwise known as "The Bullet", had not only strictly forbade his thankfully insolent young daughter to get within one hundred feet of his quote "prize", but had left her with the threat of severe repricutions. She was also quite stubborn as well as spirited, traits she inherrited from her beautifull mother who also gave her daughter through genetics, the gift of a mane of long, thick, luxurious red hair which accented her deep jade green eyes. These ayes were now set on the young man before her. Charity Jumped back a bit startled as a soft but painfull moan escaped Joe Hardy's throat. Apparently, her ministrations no matter how suprisingly gentle had caused him some more pain. Charity's eyes flashed a look of concern. She also wondered just why she was so concerned for this handsome scamp who had managed to cause her so much trouble in the past. Charity was not only beautifull, She was also very intelligent and unfortunatly very agile, infact the girl barely out of her teens herself, had decided to temp fate and a few authority figures to lead a life as a thief. It was perhaps her fathers position as head of the dreaded "Assassins Guild" which afforded her a chance to hone up on her rather extensive not to mention quite impressive skills. She was so good at her job infact that she managed to amass quite a fortune of her own and knew she would have made even more money if it were not for the efforts of the talented Joseph Hardy and his equally impressive older brother Frank . Charity sighed, by rights she should despise them both for foiling a few very lucrative deals and landing her butt in the hot seat with opposing sides, however, there

was two reasons why she alway's felt compelled to forgive the Hardy Brothers for their frequent intrusion into her business affairs. The first was that they had managed to pull said Butt out of the fire, thus saving it from getting seriously burned or even extinguished, and the other reason, well, glancing up at Joe Hardy's bruised but still handsome features, she sighed once more..They were just too darn adorable to resist.    

At the Hardy home Gertrude Hardy the elder sister of ace detective Fenton Hardy had busied herself with the care of all her patients.

She had insisted that Laura,Joe and Frank all marched right up to bed to rest while she prepared a hearty meal for them and their tired guests. She had just finished wrapping up a plate of homemade fried clams on a roll, her famous potato salad and a steaming bowl of

New England Clam chowder with a container of tarter sauce, ketchup and a lemon slice for Fenton who had not returned from giving his

official statement at the police station. Chief Ezra Collig needed to know just what Stanly smythe had said to Fenton on the way out of the Weighnright Clinic, right before the place blew up injuring many but thankfully not killing anyone but it could have easily been quite a different outcome. As Gertrude placed the meal in the refridgerator she wiped a tear from her handsome face and prayed a silent prayer of thanks that her beloved family are all still with her. She had almost shut the door when she suddenly rembered the desserts she had made. When she found the energy or time to prepare such a feast even she didn't know but there was always a hungry crowd at the Hardy household. When she had first heard about the press confrence and all the trouble her young scallywag of a nephew Joseph had managed to get himself in this time, Gertrude knew that her place was by the side of those she held most dear. Even Laura Hardy who at times, seemed at odds with the somewhat different ways each strong woman approached matters, had held a special place in her heart. Gertude thought about her slim, pretty blonde haired sister in-law and once again marveled at the obvious physical

resemblance between her and her youngest son Joe , as strong a resemblance as that of her beloved brother Fenton to their oldest child Frank whose handsome features were almost identical. Joe and Laura both had blond hair and blue eyes, the exception being the

way that Joe's sapphire orbs seemed to sparkle like a tropical ocean waters, his mothers although lovely in their own right, had a much

more subdued lighter hue. Frank and his father on the other hand both had hair the color of rich chocolate with eyes to match. They made quite a lovely family gertrude had to admit proudly. However, there was so much more to each member of this incredible family

so much more than looks, They each posessed many talents and skills, And had proven to be quite intelligent in their own rights. It was

their bravery, spirit and heart which had impressed Gertrude Hardy most of all, especially thier fierce determination to live life to the fullest. They had each unfortunatly proven their special bond for one another which only helped fuel their will to not only endure all the

unspeakable horrors their chosen life had thrown at them but to more importantly survive them as well. She pulled a few cream pies from the fridge before shutting it. Gertrude suddenly started to slump against the closed refridgerator the tears in her eyes flowing fast at freely down her cheeks. An approaching noise from the dining area had thankfully interrupted the breakdown she knew would come again someday. Quickly Gert placed the pies on the table and feverishly tried to wipe away any indication that she had been crying and

carrying on like this. Gertrude Angelica Hardy had worked much too long and hard to give the illusion that she was a peppery stubborn

woman who often vocally disaproved strongly with everything her young family did, when in reality she could not be more proud to be

included in their exploits. She had just finished wiping her eyes with her apron when Callie Shaw and Venessa Bender came in. Gert had

to smile at the two lovely young girls who had won her nephews hearts.  

"Oh, hello dears, may I help you with something?" She asked wiping her hands on the apron. then turning to retrieve the dessert tray from the cupboard.  

" Hi Aunt Gertrude" Both girls chorused, they smiled at her then shot a quick glance in each others direction nodding in concerned agreement that they had just interrupted some thing. As peppery and intrusive as this woman appeared to be, they all knew that Gertrude Hardy was also a wonderfull caring woman who loved taking care of her family and their many friends and that she was quite a remarkable person as well, especially in the kitchen, no one could cook as well as Gertrude. 

" Actually, we were wondering if we could possibly help you?" Callies asked, She had tried to deal with the somewhat negative thoughts

about Joe and how his stay at the weighnright clinic would have given her more time with her beloved boyfriend Frank who seemed to

spend most of his time in a tug-a -war between his two closest bonds, His girlfriend and his little Brother, Both were his best friends and

both had meant the world to him. Callied had since reqretted her selfish thoughts and tried her best to make up for it by being there for not only Frank but for the whole Hardy family and that included Joe who was in need of all the support he can get.  

"Good timing then young ladies, I was just about to bring in some dessert. Perhape you could help carry these things to the dining room table?" She asked impressed with their politness, But then again all of her nephews friends had proven to be such good people.  

" Here, I'll take the coffee alright?" Vanessa volunteered, readhing for the old silver and black coffe caffaffe carefully as to not scold her hands. She smiled up at her hostess with her soft Greyish blue eyes. Vanessa had long willowy blonde locks while green eyed Callie had

shoulder length dark blond hair. She had picked up the other tray of cups,napkins and utensils. The three ladies had just begun to bring the supplies into the other room when the phone rang. "Would you like me to get that?" called out. She was closest to the phone. 

But the ringing had stopped suddenly indicating that someone haf either picked it up on another extension or they hung up. They shrugged to one another and continued with their task. Vanessa with the coffee urn lead the way gingerly, to the dining room where they laid out the desert then turned to call everyone to help themselves, of course warning Chet Morton that there was plenty but that

there were also many hungry people. Chet licked his chops before shooting them a faux hurt look. Then shrugging the now laughing girls off he promptly dug into the first dessert available to him, a homemade Chocholate Cream pie. Soon Frank and Joe's other best friends and somewhat associates, Blond, well built Biff Hooper, tall wirey,olive skinned Tony Prito and Small framed dark blond, bi-spectaled

Phil Cohen whose genius on the computer had played a big part of solving this and other cases, Had filtered into the room. They knew that their good natured and loyal friend Chet Morton had one weekness, food. Chet looked over at them all expecting the usual jab at his rather large appetite which rivaled only Joe Hardy's varacious one But suprizingly they just laughed and shook their heads. Chet was a big boy whose girth had been put to good use as a line backer fo the Bayport High Varsity football team which included Both Joe

and Biff, Frank had also joined the team once but his interests seemed to fall toward cross country and acedemics which was also appreciated more by Phil and Vanessa. While Callie who wanted nothing to do with Football or other sports chose to keep fit by working out and dancing. She also loved riding the horses at the Morton farm, Especially "Little Joe" which belonged to her oldest and dearest Friend, Chet Morton's younger sister Iola who was presumed killed in a car bomb outside the Bayport Mall last year during a political rally, much like the one where Joe was kidnapped and taken to the Wieghnright clinic.  

"By the way, who was on the Phone?" Gertrude asked.  

"Oh yeah, sorry Aunt Gertrude, that was Mr. Hardy checking in, I assured him that everything was fine, oh and he asked me to extend his apology that he will be delayed a while longer at police Headquarters.   

Meanwhile down at police headquarters: 

Fenton Hardy ran a hand through his dark brown hair, Oblivious to the sprinkle of grey which threatend to over take it, that was the least of his worries. He was tired,emotionally drained, and wanted nothing more than to get home to see for himself that his family were alright, to hold each one and never let them go. But Fenton Knew he could not leave the police station until a lot more answers were provided and he also knew more profetically that he just might not be able to hold on to his family as much as he needed to. He would die trying to keep them safe if that were the case, Fenton just hoped that it would never come to that, but if it did then he would

probably not be able to control himself when it came to saving his loved ones.  

"Fenton, I really need to know exactly what Stanley Smythe said to you " Police Chief Ezra Collig asked than demanded as he noticed

his friends reluctance to answer right away.  

"He just threatened my family, Ezra I am sorry for my out burst but why do you need to know you are holding something from me and I refuse to answer without knowing why it is so important. " Fenton stated firmly, Collig glared at the younger man, a true friend and a

damn good detective whose sons were rapidly catching up to him in sucess rates and reputation. Fenton watched as Sargeant Con Reilly walk over to his boss and say something quietly, After a while the Cheif turned his attention back to Fenton Hardy who shifted

impatiently in the soft black leather arm chair he was sitting.  

"I am sorry Fenton you know how I feel about Joseph, about your whole family, which is what bothers me, there is just too many loose ends, I am not going to sugar coat this, someone went to a whole lot of trouble seperating Joe from everyone he cares for and I just don't think they are ready to give up this easy." The Chief said grimily, Fenton nodded in angry agreement, his thoughts were also laced with sadness, Which made him feel even more Phyically and emotionally exausted than even before. But for his family's dake Fenton Hardy sat back and lbegan to tell his friends his part of the story so far including the info the kids had found linking the Assassins with both the clinic and their suspected connection to the Carmen Miller Campaign. Fenton then told them exactly what Stan

had said before Fenton Lunged at him, which was quite possibly the reason someone felt the need to elinate the orderly, And it was not

because he had been stealing Oxicontin from local pharmacies and at the clinic as well.  

"Someone had to have heard or suspected what he said to you and deciced to silence him, which leaves us with an even bigger worry

Gentlemen which is ..." Collig began. 

"That there is a lousy stinking bad cop in the department, one who has no problems with walking up to a patrol car,getting in and murdering a man in cold blood then managing to quickly get away without arousing anyone's suspicions" A new but familiar voice called out finishing the Chief's own. They all turned to see a rather plain looking man in a rumpled old grey colored trench coat, He stood in the doorway, a deathly serious look on his face. After this brief pause the Network agent known as Arthur Grey aka "The Grey Man "

began again before anyone could interrupt his next statement. "Gentlemen, this is far from over, And I am afraid this is going to go far beyond whatever sick plans the Assassins have for Joseph," He stopped and shot a sympathetic look in Fenton's direction, who nodded

for Grey to continue. Grey cleared his throat loudly before continuing with his explanation. " Not to discount the need to keep a very close eye on Young Joseph of course In my opinion, whoever organized this whole clinic fiasco is most likely either still out to get Joe, but as I said, It goes beyond that, It is much more than even we suspected. You were actually on the right track Fenton when you said that the Miller Campaign had something to do with it. The Assasins plan to bank roll the campaign using Miller as a front to get to the hot spot otherwise known as the Oval office. Then from there on they plan to strategically place some of their top operatives in key positions." Grey sighed deeply, The room was deathly silent as they all began to realize the implications of his words.  

" Grey are you implying what I think you are?" Collig asked.  

"Yup, The Assassins are planning to take off where they lost Phillip Walker, who was their original choice to be the Front man, However, Walker not only turned them down but had dedicated his own campaign towards eradicating this menace" 

"Which is why he was targeted" Con answered.  

"Not to mention the reason why poor Iola Morton died from a bomb meant for my Son's" Fenton interjected, his voice heavy with a mix of bitter anger and heart breaking sadness, especially since he knew that there were a lot of people still suffering greatly from her loss, especially Chet and his parents, And then there was Joe, his baby who had suffered so much himself since that fatefull day. Frank had

been the outwardly strong one, But It was his younger son's incredible will to survive which blew him away, Both son'e had given him

so very much to be proud of and as a parent so much to be terrified about as well.  

"So lay it out for us slower thinkers Grey, what are we talking here exactly?" Collig said, needing as much info as possible before he could take action on his end.  

"I am not really supposed to be telling you all this..." The Grey Man began, but stopped and shut the door to the room thus assuring that whatever is heard in this room stays there. He then once again continued speaking, Fenton thought he reminded him of Frank and

his somewhat frustrating habit of dropping a bomb and then rushing off or becoming deep in thought while leaving them all hanging and

impatiently waiting for more.  

"Well?" The three men Chorused, plainly hanging on every word. Finally Grey continued.  

"Gentle Men what we are talking about is Terrorism!" He exclaimed to the shocked audience.   

Chapter 3

"Shh..." A worried Charity Butler whispered to a half conscious Joe Hardy, She had been trying to help him hopefully without being detected. Despite who her family was she had realized that she was just not a killer, And especially not Joe Hardy's killer. Once again a

soft moan escaped Joe's parced, chapped lips. Charity raised a cup of water to them then ran a tube of Cherry flavored ChapStick over them carefully as to barely touch the swollen and bleeding cuts which seem to cover not only his lips but his entire body as well. She was leaning so close to them and wondered just what it would be like if they were back to a healthy normal and whether Joe would enjoy the

"theft" of a kiss. But then she remembered that Joe was now a one woman man and it certainly wasn't her. His heart at present only belonged to Miss Vanessa Bender, Charity thought then wondered why she sounded almost jealous! She quickly dimissed the thought and turned her thoughts to helping him atleast get down and out of those shackles so he can atleast have a chance to rest and heal from his wounds. Charity gasped as she saw him trying to raise his head.

"Good your coming around again, maybe this time you will finally stay awake long enough to help me with a plan to get you out of here."

"Actually, maybe we should both find a way out of this hell whole" Joe said in a barely audible,scratchy voice. Charity breathed deeply

filling her mind with relief. "Ouch!" Joe exclaimed as once again his mind began to flood with the pain of his body. Charity knew it was

time that she did something to get him out of those things, refering to the rusty old shckles which pulled at Joe's chaffed and bruised up skin.

" I am so sorry Joey hon, I promise to help you atleast out of those damn things as soon as possible" She vowed. Her thoughts then turned to the task of retrieving the key from whomever posessed it but how hard could that be,after all she was a world reknown theif and had done it all, even managing to rob a resort casino by rigging a few slot machines to pay out in her favor. Charity had barely gotten away with that one but the point was that she did, and she would do so now. What worried her most of all was the fact that "Daddy" dear would of course be comepletely furious with her! Just how dangerous cold someone in Joe Hardy's condition be? Charity

Butler along with anyone else in Joseph Hardy's way would soon discover that like a wounded animal, Joe could be one of the most dangerous beings to have as an adversary! Before Charity turned to walk out of the room she abruptly leaned up and softly planted a kiss on just about the only patch of un injured face almost swearing that she could see his pale skin turn to a healthier shade of a blush.

Neither Charity,nor Joe were aware that their entire conversation and actions were being closely observed. The person who was spying on them smiled wickedly, fully amused by the display of "Affection " the young woman was displaying, But they were also seething due

to the irrefutable evidence that she was dangerously close to betraying a direct order from her father who happend to be the freaking head of the Assassins. part of them wanted to scream out, "Damn little fool! you are going to get both yourself and Mr. Hardy killed."

But another part had felt a strange surged of pride that she chose to disreguard her own future and help the poor boy. They began to recall when they had been that young and wondered what choice they would make. "I guess it depended on the situation" They thought

quietly out loud. What to do right now was the main issue. Curiousity had won out for the moment, the amusement was just too darn

addicting, It would soon wear off though, they sighed and then they would go confront these two "love birds" especialy dear Charity and

see what she has to say about her betrayal.."hmmm...and what to do about our little prize, Joseph" They wondered, their eyes locked on the monitor before them. They once again smiled and laghed, clearly amused at the delicious thoughts which now popped into their

wicked head.

Fenton Hardy sat wide eyed along side his three associates, Ezra Collig and Sgt. Con Reilly as they listened to another, explain in detailwhatever the Network had uncovered about the Assassins latest attempt to use dirty politics to gain control of the government.

"But wait a minute Grey, If the election outcome was determined by the number of electoral votes then how can the assassins make

sure their candidate would end up in the White House?" Fenton inquired. Grey Man placed a finger on his lips and tapped it as if he was

comtemplating the question. The others watched him expectantly.

" Actually a very good question Fenton, And we are still working on that, However I wouldn't put it past the assassins to replace even the president with a doppleganger." The agent replied,

Fenton felt a bit queazy at the thought, Something had been nagging him and he suddenly wanted to desperatly get home and see his family, Fenton especially felt the need to see Joe. What Grey had just said had raised quite a few questions and Fenton, always the detective had the nagging feeling that his youngest child just might be the only one who can help him find those answers.

"You mean that they could doubles or even clones in place of any person in office? Maybe even congress? " Con asked. Grey shook his head.

" Ask Frank and Joe, or a few others including yours truly, we have first hand knowledge that the Assassins have not only been working on such things but have suceeded remarkably." Grey explained. Before anyone else could speak there was a knock on the door, They all nearly jumped out of their seats.

"Damn I thought I told the desk officer to hold my calls and visitors!" Collig exclaimed, as Con went to the door to see who it was. He opened the door to greet the Hardy family's dark haired, ebony skinned attorney Marissa Chetwynne who offered Con a smile before turning her pretty face to search the room for her client, Fenton who rose to greet his lawyer with an out stretched hand, which she accepted with a wary smile. All the men had risen out of their seats in a polite show of respect. Con began to ask her if she minded waiting until they were finished with their meeting but the determined woman rushed right over to her client and sat down in the empty seat beside him. She began whispering something in his ear, a warning perhaps but whatever it was caused Fenton to sigh and shake his head. Finally She looked up at the crowd around them.

"Gentlemen,please excuse my interruption but I wanted to make sure my client was adequately represented during questioning. " She

shot Fenton a "you know better" look, he shrugged sheepishly, He knew she was right and that made the usually by the book detective,

feel even more frustrated not to mention he felt like kicking himself right now over his lack of professionalism.

" Miss Chetwynne, though you are correct in your statement,however Fenton was not being charged with anything, we were merely comparing notes and discussing the case so far. " Collig tried to point out to her, They were all well aware of the law which states that a lawyer must be present when questioning a suspect unless they waive the right to an Attorney.

"Thank you for coming down here Marissa, there are a few things I would like to discuss with you though," Fenton said to the tall woman

as he stood up, then turned to face the Chief. "That is if you gentlemen are finally finished with me" He added. Ezra Collig shook his head,as

did Con, the Grey man reluctantly nodded as well.

Arthur Grey clearly had more to say but it would have to wait, there was much more work to do anyway and perhaps then he would have more to tell them. Something that can hopefully begin the long and dangerous task of bringing these cursed assassins to their knees and finally put a stop to their plans for good this time. He owed it to Joe Hardy, to the memory of his beloved wife, Barbara and of course to his country to get this problem taken care of. Arthur Grey had often seemed like a cold no-nonsense Agent but he was in reality a very different person, Being second in command of a top secret organization dedicated to fighting evil had afforded him just the right opportunity for the simple looking man. He had already lost the person most dear to him and felt that this was the perfect positon to get the revenge he seeked and it was all completely legal, well for the most part. You see Arthur Grey had mixed feelings about the fact that his young recruits Frank and Joe had managed to take down the Assassins leader, though grateful for their efforts

and proud of their success, there had still be an overwhelming feeling of anger that the man who killed the love of his life, had not been

destroyed by his hands instead. He tried to deny it to even himself but Agent Grey actually wondered if the reason he seemed to treat Frank Hardy with a lot more respect while he often seemed to barely tolerate Joe was infact because Joe had robbed him of the cold

revenge that Grey so deperatly had thought

.

Chapter 4

Charity was not exactly sure what her next move should be. She plopped down on the rickity old bed to think about it,her gaze however never leaving Joe's form. She knew that she should help Joe, It would be the right thing to do, But on the other hand any attempt to let the boy go would also prove to be a blatently stupid thing otherwise known as suicide. Sure Charity loved a challenge, craved the surge of

adreneline when she was so close to the edge, however, She still was not ready to risk her life for someone else, not even Joseph Hardy!

By the time Fenton Hardy finally made it safetly home that evening, the Hardy household had become quiet, save for the low murmerings

coming from the televison in the living room. He quietly shut the door, rebooted the alarm system and hung up his coat. Turning toward the living room Fenton noticed a head pop up from the couch and turn in his direction. Instinctively Fenton Jumped back, a little startled by the person's sudden appearance. Fenton recovered quickly as he became aware of his own eye's staring back up at him.

"Hello Franky?" He whispered as he made his way toward his oldest son.

"Hi Dad" Frank greeted in return. His father had noticed that even in the darkened room Frank looked terrible. His eye's were all so blood shot and he looked exausted. 'My poor guy!' Fenton thought to himself as he came around to sit beside Frank who gingerly sat up while rubbing his eyes. Fenton felt like kicking himself for once again overlooking the fact that both his son's desperatly needed his support at the moment,actually they should alway's be able to access his support whenever they need or want it, that went souble for their mom as well.

"Hey there Whiz, you ok? I mean you really don't look so well and your voice sounds so scratchy" His father asked concern deep in his words.

"yeah, Just a few lingering night-Mares. I just need some sleep especially since I have a pretty big test tomorrow." Frank answered. It

was not a total fib, However, the last thing Frank wanted was to worry his exausted family even more if they knew he was in so much pain. "Hey, how did it go down at the station by the way?" He inquired trying to quickly change the subject.

" Well, they asked alot of the usual questions, Oh and by the way don't be surprised if we get a visit tomorrow, I don't think they'll go to

the school to interview you or your friends, but I think you should at least be prepared son. "

" Ok, I will give the others a heads up. They might not know too much but, I am a bit worried about Vanessa dad, I mean she has been so wonderfull for Joe, But I know she feels needlessly guilty about the whole Brad Miller incident "

"I was thinking the same thing, But it is absolutely rediculous for her to blame herself for what those creeps did to Joe. Just as it should not be doing the same thing to you son." Fenton said as his son's lowered handsome face shot up to stare questionably into his dad's

deep brown eyes.

"Oh, come on Frank, don't even try to deny it! Your mther and myself can see in your actions and mannerisms, Like poor Vanessa You

think this whole fiasco is somehow atleast partly your fault. Which of Course it is not!

"You can read me like a book stil huh?" Frank said quite impressed.

"Well Duh! I am the world's greatest detective am I not, well actually I think I am in second, only because there is a first place tide" Fenton answered smiling, both father and first-born began to share a laugh together.

"Thanks dad" Frank said. His fathers arms opened wide as he took his dark haired front in a warm embrace only to be interrupted by another's presence.

"Hrrumph, Is this a private family moment or can anyone Join?" A familiar voice rang out. Both Hardy men threw their heads up to

acknowledge Gertrude's presence. She had been in the kitchen getting a pot of tea ready, Apparently she was unable to sleep to well

herself.

"Hello Gertrude"

"Hi Aunty"

Hello gentlemen, Fenton, I am not going to ask what happend, I know you and the way you alway's think you have to keep details from

us poor defenseless woman folk. Please try to deny it dear brother.

Both frank and Fenton's mouth hung open at her bluntness and the way she somehow managed to also convey a "big sister" look of concern for her "menflok".

"Thank You Gertrude dear, I do appreciate that, and not for the reason you may expect, I am just so darn tired" Fenton replied with an exausted smile.

"Poor boy, you mut be so starved, darn good thing I managed to save you a plate and and some dessert if you are a good boy. " She

promised. He nodded his head. "oh, airight, But perhaps you could please bring this up to your wife while I am re-heating your food .

"mmm..I can do that and by the way thanks sis," Fent reached down to retrieve the tray she had been holding and planted a gently kiss

on his older sisters cheek causing the woman to blush. Frank chuckled at the scene.

"Franklin, would you care for something hon? " She called out softly to her oldest nephew, He began to shake his head but realized that

he was actually very hungry all of a sudden. In fact Frank felt like he was starving!

Joe's stomach had reminded him that he probably hadn't eaten since he was forced to consume that drugged food at the clinic, He had

been so thirsty until Charity had gently raised a thermos of hot broth to his lips, At first he coughed and had trouble keeping it down, but It was soon flowing down his parched throat and tasted like heaven to the parched and starving Joe.

"Thanks, " Joe said sending a gratefull look toward Charity, If only he could get his arms down before they snapped out of their sockets

Joe's wrists were now bleeding and were throbbing with pain. Charity tried to keep Joe's Wounds from getting infected, but it was so hard to take care of him while shackled by his wrists and suspended like a side of beef. She had to get him down and soon. One thing had been bothering Both Cahrity and Joe though, If her "Father" had been so adament about her staying away fron Joseph, yet, there

had not been any sign from anyone! Not the Bullet himself, not the guards even. It was almost as if no one was around or if they knew she was there they were actually watching to see what they would do next, kinda like a test

"Sick Bastards!" Joe and Charity simutaniously thought. Then Charity came to one of the hardest and most daring decisions of her young life, she decided to help Joe, disrequarding whatever threats her Daddy dearest had promised in retribution for going anywhere near the prisoner, especially if she helped the boy escape. Suddenly she remembered something she had hiddeng on herself for times just like these, It was a tiny lock pick she carefully hid in a secret pocket of her leather jacket. Charity cursed herself, hoping that she was not loosing her touch already, then concentrated on retrieving the lock pick and standing on the bed so she sould reach Joe who hung above it. Joe mean-while tried not to wince in pain with every movement but there were bruises all over his body and even though she had tried her best to be gentle, it still felt as if he were on fire every time her hand accidently tounched any part of his. Joe also felt as if he was going to pass out again but tried as hard as he could to stay awake, finally Charity grunted as the first shackle managed to be seperated from Joe's bloody wrist. Joe involuntarily cried out in pain as his body was now being supported by the one hand which was shckled to it. Charity thought quicklly then jumped off the bed running over to a metal chair and placing it on the bed beside the dangling Joe who was quickly turning very pale! Charity cringed with every painfull cry and moan which escaped from Joe's mouth.

"Oh Joe, I am so sorry!! " She genuingly pleaded. Joe was in too much pain to acknowledge her. Charity tried to grab onto his body as it swung there, but had trouble because even in his weakend state, he was still very muscular, But her determination continued to grow with each moan of pain, until finally she managed to grab hold of his now limp form and pull him over to sit on the chair, at least he can

sit down while she worked on the last shackle. The thought of her own family doing this to people made her stomach churn, yet she had

to pusk the threatning bile back down her throat and get to work on freeing Joe atleast from hanging on the ceiling, Charity knew that his poor wrists would no doubt break, that is if one or both hadn't already done so.

It took what felt like forever, but finally the last shackle had been opened and Soon Charity had Joseph in the bed. She covered his prone form in the grey wool blanket there and once again tried to gently clean and examine his wounds, after a while she grew a bit more worried when Joe had not revived yet. Feeling helpless she decided he really needed a doctor. But what he needed most of all, or rather Whom he needed most of all was out there somewhere no doubt moving heaven and earth to find his "baby" brother. Somewhere Frank Hardy was getting closer and closer to once again saving his brother and partner, Or so Charity Butler hoped with all her warming heart.

Chapter 5

"Joe Hardy " or the person who was trying to take over his life, awoke to the soft sound of Laura Hardy's voice. She had considered letting him sleep in today but it was also very important that her whole family try to return to as normal a life as possible, though she always wondered why she continued to hold onto that thought since it seemed more and more lately that the Hell they had all just gone through had become the norm. But Laura Hardy was a considerably strong woman, she had to be, This was just one reason a younger

Fenton Hardy had fallen in love with the pretty teen and vowed to make her his own. He never regretted the choice, And neither would she. Joe turned to look up at the pretty, petite blonde woman before him, she smiled contently obviously lost in some old memory and

it made her look even more lovely he thought.

"Hi mom" Joe groaned rubbing his eyes. He still needed to get used to calling this stranger by the title "MOM" but It was not something

that he would find difficult, this woman had all the qualities his own mother ,if you could call her that lacked even in the short time he had known her.

"Hi there honey, did you sleep alright?"

"Actually.." He began then stopped to expell a loud yawn and stretch his arms before continuing. " I slept like a baby,thanks mom"

He saw her smile again,then noticed how tired she looked.

"What about you? How are you feeling mom, I heard you hit your head pretty hard during the explosion" He asked wondering why he was so concerned for this total stranger still.

"Oh, I am just fine dear,so much better that my baby is finally home safe and sound where he belongs." She said trying to assure him,

Laura still could not help but worry for his well being, not after what he had been through, once again, that thought crushed her heart.

"Joe" once again a pang of guilt and envy filled his young heart for the real Joe Hardy, but again he managed to push it aside. He scolded himself for allowing these feelings to surface, after all, they could ruin everything and would most likely spell certain death for not just himself but perhaps everyone involved. Just why was the real Hardy kid so damn important he wondered but the heavenly smell of bacon and eggs had dismissed all other thoughts for the moment.

"Mmmm..smells like Aunty G. has out done herself again " He said hungrily licking his lips as Laura laughed contently before leaving the room to give her "son" some privacy to get up and prepared to meet the new day. As she closed the door behind her Laura once again smiled at her youngest child, But suddenly something had struck her, it was like she had just recieved a cry for help from somewhere,a momentary thought raced through her mind that her Joey was not as well as it appeared. "Joe looked up at her just in time to see her face flicker with fear, he wondered what was wrong, but she quickly recovered and her smile had returned brightly to greet his once more. Laura blew him a kiss before finally shutting the door behind her.

Frank awoke with a comepletely different out look than his younger "brother", He was aching from head to toe with exaustion and the

knawing feeling that continued to subbornly linger and torture every fibre of his being. Something was just not right. It was one of the strangest feelings but not the only time he felt something like that however. The last time he could recall feeling this way was on the

plane to Boston when he felt sick about something. That something turned out to be the horror that they all experienced over the last week. poor Joe had been right in the thick of it all and must be having such a hard time dealing, but Frank also knew just how resiliant his bro was and how strong he was too, it made Frank so proud of him. But Frank also knew something else about his baby brother, He

was trying so hard to forget, that was the fact that Joe was also a very sensative and caring person who tried so hard to be there for everyone yet who often forgot to take care of himself, in that the brothers were extremely similar. Frank always worried about Joe, he

seemed to find trouble whether he was looking for it or not, But it was not as easy being Joe Hardy, as he often made it appear. Just as it was not always fun being Frank Hardy, The older brother who was as well known for his over protectiveness toward Joe as he was for his detective skills or his acedemic merit. But Frank would never regret that responsibility, he loved his brother more than life itself and knew without a doubt that Joe would be right by his side no matter what, to do the same for him. Frank turned his troubled thoughts back to getting ready for school. He finished tying his black shoe boots and stood up to look at himself in the mirror. He had chosen to

don a dark purple polo shirt and his new black pants which brought out the warm chocolate in his beautifull eyes and the dark choclate

of his straight but short hair. sighing Frank reached for his brush and began to run it through the thick locks when the phone in the boys

bathroom rang. Frank heard his mother yell up for him to pick it up.

"Hello?.. Thanks mom I have it"

"Ok honey, bye Callie hon, but do me a favor please try not to stay on for too long my boy needs a good breakfast,besides his brother is already here eating everything in sight!" Laura added with a soft laugh which made Franks heart soar. It was music to Frank's ears to

hear their mom happy again. But he did blush a bit at her comments.

" No problem Mrs. Hardy, I promise to make this short." Callie Shaw giggled as Laura hung up the phone.

"What's up hon? " Frank asked.

" Come on Frank, did you think I would not want to make sure you are alright?"

"I am fine thanks Cal, I appreciate the concern" Frank replied, he really was touched by her thoughtfullness, once again reaffirming the

choice he made to vow to keep her in his life as long as possible, Much like his father had when he made his own fatefull and thankfull

choice. He heard her sigh he knew she didn't buy it. Frank often forgot just how those closest to him could read so easily. He had to smile as he pictured his pretty girlfriend, Her shoulder length dark blonde hair and expressive brown eyes. Now it was Frank Hardy's turn to sigh, but for an entirely different reason, one he would have to discuss with her hopefully alone at their favorite spot and even

more hopefully as soon as possible.

" Allright, I will just have to see for myself in a little while, How is Joe this morning?" She asked trying to show that she did care for the other "love" of Frank Hardy's life.

"Well, you did just hear my mom say that brat boy is eating everything insight didn't you?" Frank said with a laugh,Callie joined in. They continued to talk about the recent events and make plans to meet at the school parking lot before school. Chet and the others were also planning to be there for support. But all too soon for their tastes, the couple realized that they both had to continue getting

ready for school or they would not only be late but wouldn't be able to meet with the others.

" Hey, before we hang up, Is Joe going to just hang out at home all day, He is still suspended right?" She asked, trying to sound casual.

"Yup, But under the circumstances and with Mr. Morton's much appreciated help, My parents and Joe were allowed to meet with the principal and the school board to discuss the whole mess. of course I am so sure Brad Miller's parents will insist on attending. I am

not even sure if I can control myself when I see that S.O.B Cal, After what he did to my brother and Vanessa I am just not sure I can

just let it go."

Callie Shaw shuttered. She knew all too well, how protective her boyfriend was of his brother and for that matter anyone he held dear.

She really didn't want to blame Joe if Frank went Ballistic on Brad Miller, because frankly she wouldn't mind socking the jerk herself, But

It just seemed to her that once again Frank might land right smack in trouble trying to protect Joe. Callie immediatly regretted that she

felt that way, but she loved Frank with all her young heart and didn't want to see all his dreams, not to mention a few of hers as well, go up in smoke all because he went over board protecting and cleaning up after his younger brother. " Um Frank I have to go now alright,

I promised Van that I would give her a ride to school, She is dying to drive my sports car so I told her it would be ok today. ok? "

"Sure baby, I have to go too before the human garbage disposal eats all the food thus leaving me to starve." He answered laughing.

"Joe" was already on his second helping by the time Frank came rambling down the stairs, a radiant smile on his young handsome face

revealing that he must be thinking of only one thing, or person rather, Callie Shaw.

"Franks In Love!" Fake Joe teased, his brother threw him a dirty look while he stuck his tongue out at him.

"Oh, shut it you Brat" He replied. Gertrude and Laura exchanged a look of relief that at least their two favorite teens seem to be back

into their usual routine. They were so relieved in fact that they didn't even get too upset when they had to dodge the cereal that the

boys had just began throwing at each other in a mock fight . Soon however, the playfullness had given in to the need for Frank to get to School. Frank finished the breakfast his aunt had been protecting from the starving Joe, then after brushing his teeth and cleaning up, he hurried out to the police van the boy's shared.

Joe wasn't going to need a ride because his appointment was not until eleven o'clock. His father promised to meet Joe and his mother at the school just before eleven. Laura was glad for the little time she had before the meeting which could determine her youngest childs academic future if not effect every other aspect of his young life as well. She was so terrified that Joe would continue to be punished even further than he already had been, and she was determined to not let anymore hurt come to either one of her children, She also knew that this unfortunatly was an almost impossible task, yet one she would never stop striving for even if it killed her.

"Joseph, since you seemed to enjoy your little food fiasco so much you can clean this kitchen and then please come find me, I would like to go over a few things before the meeting" She ordered stiffling a grin at the boys scowl and groan. Joe reluctantly took the broom

from his mother's outstretched hands, sighed and turned to begin sweeping up what seemed like a mountain of cereal. Laura Hardy turned away from her youngest child again with a snicker. As she left the room she could swear she heard the boy complained that it was not fair that Frank didn't have to help. Laura made her way to the laundry room and began the daunting task of tackling the mountain of clothes which now reminded her of Jabba the Hutt, she stopped suddenly as a now familiar feeling crept over her, she tried desperatly to figure out what the feeling was and why it was continuingly taunting her, especially now that her family was finally home

and safe. yet, somehow she could not stop her body from shaking as a terrifying foreboding engulfed her petite form. Laura sagged against the pile of clean clothes, grateful for it's comfort yet almost oblivious to it's presence as she gave into a torrent of tears and the overwhelming fear that either something was still terribly wrong, or she was very rapidly going crazy!