Disclaimer: You're all gonna flame me for this. Here comes another of my sick little escapades into the alternate world of the Power Rangers. And yes, it's another Jason tragedy. So, I suppose anyone who is sick of it can delete here and now.... Anyway, this story has plenty of angst in it, and there is gonna be some major confrontational stuff in it later on. Um..... all the usual disclaimers, PLUS: Michael and Melanie Oliver are not my creation. I got them from April; who she got them from I'm not sure. Whoever, I acknowledge your creation.... Donavon and Sarah Scott are mine, as you know from 'Kidnapped'...
RATING: I think I'd have to rate this PG, at the very least. This story involves descriptions of physical abuse, and indications of certain other things. Basically, it ain't gonna be pretty. But then, my stories never are.... ;)

Revelations & Reckonings
by Naomi Tilley

Just then, the door swung open and a young man ran in. "Here you are, Captain. You were right, it is them."

Matthews took the file back calmly.

"Thank you, Wilkes. That's all."

Wilkes nodded and hurried from the room. Once he was gone, Matthews opened up the file to let a small number of enlarged photos fall out. He picked them up and shuffled them together, then began to sort through them. The first three were useless blurs and he threw them in the bin. Then, he came to the fourth, and stopped.

There they were, the couple that had kidnapped his son thirteen years ago. Donavon and Sarah Scott. He scowled to himself. According TO the P.I. he had hired, they hadn't even changed their names, and yet it had taken him that long to find them. Resisting the urge to spit at the picture of the couple, he went on to the next picture and stiffened.

There was his son, thirteen years older and almost unrecognisable from the scrawny little boy that he had not seen for so long. Jason, once a timid and frightened little boy, seemed to have grown into a strong and sure young man. The influence of the Scotts, no doubt, he reflected. It looked as though he would have to break the boy in all over again....

A smile played over his lips. He supposed he should be grateful. Looking at the picture of the muscular teen, he felt himself becoming aroused. Jason had packed on the muscle, and was a very good-looking boy. He looked forward to putting things back to the way they had been.

Still smiling to himself, he started to make arrangements to get out to Angel Grove, California.

Angel Grove....
"Jason!"

Jason's head appeared around the corner of the house. "Yeah, Dad?"

"Go and get the hose. And no funny business! I don't want to get soaked like the last time we washed the car."

Jason grinned and went to do as he'd been asked. From the porch, Sarah Scott watched as her husband, Donavon, finished soaping the family station wagon.

"I'm surprised you actually trusted him to get the hose, after what happened the last time."

Donavon grunted. "If he tries that again, hell be grounded for a month."

"I heard that!" Jason hooted as he came back with the running hose.

Donavon smirked at the boy. "I hope so."

"Lucky I don't have anything planned for a month, huh?" Donavon's expression altered seconds before he was hit with a deluge of water. Sarah went into a fit of laughter on the porch, while Donavon ducked around the car to escape the water attack.

"Jason!" he bellowed in fury. Jason deflected the water.

"Aw, c'mon Dad. Washing the car is no fun if you don't get wet."

Donavon straightened up, glowering with feigned anger. "In case you didn't notice, I'm the only one here who is wet! I don't see you hosing yourself down, here!"

Jason shrugged. "You're the one who told me to get the hose. You should've known better."

Donavon hesitated, then sighed. "Well, it could be worse, I suppose. At least I haven't been soaked by a bucket full of soapy water."

Jason's smile faded. "Hey, wait a second...."

A devious grin spread over Donavon's face. "Just wait right there." Jason dropped the hose and bolted, exactly the reaction Donavon had been hoping for. Jason came within reach and he heaved up the full bucket and managed to get ninety percent of its contents over Jasons head. The eighteen year-old came to a halt, spluttering and rubbing his eyes.

"You two look ridiculous!" Sarah laughed.

"That's not fair!" Jason whined. "Dad used the dirty water! I only used hose water!"

"Well, you'll just have to have an early shower, then," Sarah retorted, smirking with amusement.

Donavon laughed at the sight of Jason, completely soaked through. "Now, that is definitely better than grounding you."

Just then, two of Jason's best friends rounded the corner and stopped at the bottom of the driveway. "Jason?" Tommy Oliver asked curiously. He and Adam Park exchanged amused grins at the sight of their wet friend.

"Great," Jason moaned dramatically. "Now my esteem is shot to hell. Thanks, Dad."

Tommy started forward. "I thought we were going to go and see the new Jackie Chan movie this afternoon."

"We are," Jason replied. "Dad just decided to take revenge. Give me fifteen minutes, okay?"

Donavon edged over and picked up the hose. "Oh, Jason?"

Jason looked around, and was hit a second later by a volley of water. "Hey!" Jason howled in protest. Donavon grinned and turned the hose nozzle, stopping the water flow.

"That was for the last time. Now, go and have a shower." Jason stomped back into the house, leaving his parents and his friends to laugh.

~*~

Jason grunted as they found seats in the theatre. "I have. Trust me, it's not a pretty sight."

"But still," Adam protested, "your dad is always doing stuff with you. Dad never has time for me."

"It's the professions," Tommy replied. "Cops and investigators are always busy with a case. They're notorious for ignoring their families. You're lucky, Jase. You really do have a great dad."

Jason smiled as he settled into the seat. "I know. A guy couldn't ask for a better dad. I wouldn't trade him for anything."

That night....
"How was the movie, anyway?" Donavon asked they sat in the family room that night, watching a movie.

"Good," Jason replied. "I saw a few moves that I wouldn't mind giving a try. I'm going to meet Adam tomorrow and we're gonna try and figure them out."

"Don't forget your history assignment," Sarah warned him and Jason rolled his eyes.

"I won't. I've got two weeks for it."

Sarah shook her head. Jason had a habit of forgetting things like assignments, and was often caught out having to do them at the last minute.

"We'll start it tomorrow. You aren't leaving this till the night before it's due."

"Mum," Jason protested, "I was going out with Emily tomorrow night!"

"Yes, you were. Now, you aren't."

Jason slumped back down, scowling as he tried to think of a smooth way to break his date with Emily. He knew better than to argue with his own mother...

The phone rang, startling them all a little. As Donavon reached for it, Jason spoke huffily. "If it's for me, I'll call 'em back tomorrow."

Donavon ignored him and answered the phone. "Hello?"

"Excuse me," a quiet voice said on the other end of the line, "but would I be speaking to Donavon Scott?"

Donavon blinked. "Yes, that's me. Who is this?"

"An old acquaintance. From thirteen years back. The name is Matthews. Daniel Matthews."

Donavon froze, his face turning ashen with shock. Matthews went on quietly.

"Didn't think you'd ever hear from me again, did you? Well, surprise, Scott. I found you and your family. Or should I say, your wife and my son?"

"What do you want?" Donavon asked in a strained voice. "That's a fucking stupid question, isn't it, Scott? You know damnwell what I want. I want my son back. The boy you snatched from right under my nose thirteen years ago. Remember?"

Donavon suddenly found he couldn't speak. Matthews spoke again, his voice laced with rage.

"I'm coming for you, Scott. For both you and your wife. And, I'm going to get you. You'll go to jail for so long that you'll be half dead by the time you get out..."

Donavon finally gathered his wits and slammed the phone down. Jason and Sarah both looked at him questioningly.

"Dissatisfied customer?" Jason remarked humorously. Donavon stood up. "Jason, go to your room."

The teen started up in confusion. "Why? The movie isn't over yet!"

"I don't care. I need to talk to your mother. Get to your room, now." Jason frowned. "Dad, why do I have...."

"Go!" Donavon roared, startling the boy badly. Jason stared at his father in shock and hurt, then hurried from the room before he could lose control of his emotions. Sarah looked reproachfully at Donavon.

"Was that outburst really necessary?"

"Sarah, he's found us."

"What?" she asked, confused.

"Matthews. That was him, Sarah. He's found us. After thirteen years"

"Oh my god... What are we going to do?"

Donavon sat back down with a thud. "I don't know. I really don't know. He wants Jason, and he'll send us to jail, if he can."

One hand came up to Sarah's mouth, and tears sprung to her eyes. "I thought we were safe here!"

"So did I. I should have known better. We're going to have to leave."

"What about Michael Oliver?" Sarah asked anxiously. "Maybe he can help?"

"Not without being corrupt," Donavon said grimly. "We can't expect that of him, Sarah. It wouldn't be fair. We were the ones who broke the law."

"To save Jason!" Sarah burst out. "We had to, to get him away from that psychotic bastard! Jason would probably be dead by now if we hadn't done what we did!"

"We know that," Donavon said quietly, "but a jury wouldn't see it like that. There's no physical evidence anymore that Jason was abused, nothing ever went down on record, and nobody we talked to believed us. We kidnapped Jason, and thats all a judge or a jury would see."

There was a long moment of silence, and then Sarah spoke softly. "Do you think Jason remembers any of it?"

"I doubt it. It was thirteen years ago Three years hiding away in Canada... If he does remember anything, its only in his nightmares."

Silence fell as they remembered the fateful night and day that they had fled Chicago with a child that was not their own, and of the years that had followed.

They'd packed the night before, clothes, money, had already closed their bank accounts, and had packed everything they could into the family car. Sarah had gone off to school the next day as normal, and he had called his office, saying he had come down ill and would not be back at work for a week. Mid-morning came, and Sarah came home as they'd planned, and she had Jason with her.

The five year-old had been timid, frightened but certain that he didn't want to go back to his father. Sarah had then told him in a grim voice that she'd found fresh bruising on the childs frail body. They'd gone then, telling no one, taking only what they'd been able to fit into the car. They'd driven all day and most of the night, stopping only for a few hours in an off-road rest area for some sleep.

Eventually, they'd crossed the Canadian border and had gone on to the house of a close friend of Donavon's, a recluse who lived far from civilisation. There they had stayed for three years, hidden away from authority and from all other people. There, in the peace of the Canadian wilderness, Jason had slowly come out of the protective shell that he had built around himself and had eventually started calling Sarah and Donavon 'Mummy' and 'Daddy'.

When they'd left Canada to return to the U.S., it had been with caution and fear. By then, Jason had almost forgotten that the Scotts were not his parents, and the first five years of his life were only remembered in his worst nightmares. They'd traveled extensively for nearly five months, stopping only for short times in each town, until they finally decided to settle in the picturesque town of Angel Grove.

Their first year in that town had been a tense one, and they had found it difficult to trust anyone. Nothing adverse had happened, though, and they'd finally settled in properly, hoping they would never need to run again....

~*~

"And we don't have time to explain. If we stay here, well be arrested and Jason will go back to Matthews. Now, I personally don't care about myself, but I can't handle the thought of Jason going back to that bastard and having God-knows-what done to him. Can you?"

"No," Sarah whispered miserably. "I can't."

"Okay. Go and start packing clothes. I'll have Jason start packing his things. Keep it tight, only what we need the most.

"What about our bank accounts?"

"We'll take out all the money we can from our ATM accounts on our way out of town. We'll have to leave the rest. Now, go."

He left her and hurried down the hall to Jason's room. Jason looked up from his bed as his father walked in.

"Can I come back and watch the rest of the movie now?"

"Forget the movie." Donavon strode to the cupboard and yanked the door open, starting to rummage through the clothes. Jason sat up slowly.

"What are you looking for?"

"This." Donavon straightened up, and threw a large overnight bag at Jason. The boy caught it, then looked back to his father in confusion.

"What's this for?"

"Start packing. All the clothes you can fit into it, any money you've got, and your karate gear, if you can fit it in. Nothing else. There's no time."

"What, did someone die?" Jason asked nervously. The last time his parents had been this anxious had been.... well, he couldn't remember when they'd last been so anxious.

"Just pack," Donavon snapped. "No more smart ass comments." Jason gaped as his father stormed from the room. After a moment, he hurried after him.

"Dad, wait!"

Donavon turned around so fast that Jason nearly walked into him. "There is no time for fooling around! I don't have time to answer stupid questions! Now, you either get your clothes packed in the next half hour, or you'll be leaving here with only the clothes you're wearing. Understand?"

Jason stared speechlessly at his father before finally gathering his wits and nodding, moving silently back into the bedroom.

~*~

"Aren't either of you going to tell me what's going on?" His question was met with silence, and he fell back against the seat in frustration.

"Don't ask questions, Jason," Donavon said finally. "We can't explain it to you. Not yet. We just have to concentrate on getting away."

"You sound like you've committed a crime, or something." Donavon and Sarah glanced grimly at one another. Little did Jason realise that was exactly what they had done.

"Look, can you at least tell me when we'll be home again?" Jason asked pleadingly. "I've got mid-terms coming up!"

Donavon spoke in a strained voice. "We aren't going home."

"What!?"

"You heard me. We are not going back to Angel Grove. Not in the foreseeable future."

Jason's eyes were wide. "Are you guys nuts? You can't just clear out of town in the middle of the night! What... What about all my friends?"

"Forget your friends," Donavon told him. "Listen to me, Jason. We'll explain this to you when were far enough away, but until then, please keep your mouth shut. We have enough to worry about at the moment without you hassling us."

Jason abruptly closed his mouth, staring in growing confusion and anger at his parents.

~*~

"No, I am not impressed!" Matthews snarled. "I finally find my son after thirteen years, and now he's slipped through my fingers again!"

Michael Oliver fought to contain his calm. "Perhaps you said or did something to tip them off."

"I am a police captain, Chief Oliver. You ask that of rookies, not seasoned officers."

Michael drew in a slow, deep breath. Arrogant bastard... "I've known Donavon and Sarah Scott for nearly three years. You don't have to be concerned about Jason's safety. Neither of them would ever think of harming him."

"Desperate people do desperate things, Chief Oliver," Matthews said. "Haven't you heard that? Or have you been in this miserable little town for too long?"

"I assure you," Michael growled, "Jason is perfectly safe. You'll have your son back, Captain. Please, just be patient and let my men do their job."

The two men left the hallway, then, and Tommy slipped back into his room to sort out his thoughts. Jason had been kidnapped thirteen years ago by Donavon and Sarah Scott, and now his real father had come to claim him.

Tommy wondered how terrible it must have been for Matthews to lose his son, and he decided then, on the spot, to help.

Pressing the button on his communicator, he teleported out of the house.

~*~

"Now, son, I know you're confused..."

"Damn straight," Jason growled. Donavon glowered at him. "Shut up and listen." Jason fell abruptly silent. Donavon nodded. "All right, Thank you. You said we were running away like wed committed a crime. The truth is, we did. Thirteen long years ago."

Jason looked confused. "Thirteen years ago? That must have been some crime."

Sarah sat down next to him. "You don't remember, do you, sweetheart?"

"Remember what?"

Donavon sighed. "Jason, the crime we committed was kidnap. We kidnapped a five year-old child when the Welfare system failed to protect him from his abusive father."

"You kidnapped...." Jason trailed off, paling considerably. "Hang on a second..."

Sarah grasped his hand in her own. "That's right, baby. It was you that we kidnapped. You were being abused..."

"No!" Jason burst out, standing up fast and moving away from his parents. "No way! That's impossible! I... I don't remember...."

"No," Donavon replied quietly, "you don't. We did a good job of brainwashing you. A little too good, I'm afraid. Jason, sit down."

"No."

"I said sit down!"

Jason sat with a thud. Donavon went on quietly. "It's not a lie. I only wish it were. Jason, you aren't our son. We are not your parents. Not by birth, not by legal adoption. Legally, we are kidnappers, and you are a thirteen year-long unsolved mystery. But you have to understand us now. We didn't do it to harm you in any way. We weren't a couple so desperate for a child that we were willing to steal one away. We did it for your sake, and you were completely aware of what was happening at the time."

"I don't remember this," Jason said in a trembling voice. "None of it...."

"We know. It took you so long to forget, it's unfair of us to expect you to remember again so quickly. Jason, listen, son. You were being abused by your father, and not only physically. It was a serious situation that no one wanted to know about. Your father was a police officer As far as we know, he still is. He had his entire department to back him up, and all we got for our efforts was continued harassment."

"But if it's true," Jason asked, "how did you know it was happening?"

"A couple of things. Your m... Sarah was your teacher when you were five, and I was the counselor at the precinct where your father worked. While I started getting impressions of violent tendencies from your father, Sarah started getting things from you. She eventually got you to trust her enough to let her see all the bruising and scarring on your body."

Sarah felt tears prick her eyes as she recalled the time. "After I saw all of that, you asked me if I'd be your mother. After that...." She shook her head, at a loss.

"We tried to do it legally," Donavon said grimly. "We really did. We just hit dead end after dead end. No one wanted to know. Finally, we knew we had to get out of Chicago to escape the harassment, but we couldn't go, and leave you behind. We decided to kidnap you, then. It was the only way we could see to get you away from that bastard. You came with us willingly, Jason. We didn't force you into anything. If you'd said you wanted to stay with your father, we would have left you behind, as hard as it would have been. But you didn't say that. You asked to come with us. So, we took you."

"I still don't remember," Jason whispered, tears flooding his eyes. Sarah hugged him tightly.

"We don't expect you to remember all of it at once, honey. Maybe it's better for you if you don't remember it at all. Just.... Please, trust us."

"We'd never hurt you, Jason," Donavon told him. "Maybe you aren't our son legally, but you sure as hell are in every other way. We love you, boy. That's why we've done everything the way we have. It may not be right, but it's all we can think of to keep you safe."

Jason could not remember, but he did trust Donavon and Sarah. He knew they would never harm him, and he loved them a lot.

"I trust you," he said finally, staring at them tearfully. "I.... I just want us to stay together."

Donavon strode forward and threw his arms around Jason in a tight hug. "That's exactly what we're trying to do."

~*~

Jason awoke with a start, his body lathered with a fine coat of sweat. He stared at Donavon and Sarah for a long moment, confusion and fear in his eyes, then burst into tears. Sarah quickly wrapped him up in her arms, rocking him gently.

"Hush, sweetheart. It's okay. We've got you, baby...."

"I remember some..." Jason said in between the sobs. "He... He was always hitting me... Even when I didn't do anything wrong... And sometimes he'd come in when I was in bed... and he'd do stuff to me..."

"We know," Donavon murmured, sitting down and putting his arms around Jason from the other side. "We know, Jason. But don't worry. As long as we have control, you'll never go back to him."

Jason shut his eyes tightly, feeling safe between the two that he saw as his mother and father.

~*~

"Hang on," Rocky interrupted. "Mr and Mrs Scott really care about Jason. They wouldn't hurt him for anything!"

"Maybe not," Kat replied, "but they still committed a crime. And Mr Matthews has gone for thirteen years without his son. I agree with Tommy. We should find them and bring them back to Angel Grove."

"Wait," Adam growled. "We don't know the full story. Why'd they take Jason in the first place? There must have been a reason."

"Whatever it is," Tanya muttered, "it's not good enough. Kidnapping is not acceptable. Not for any reason. I say we bring them back."

Tommy looked around. "Zordon?"

"I am in full agreement, Tommy. Alpha will locate Jason and his parents, and then you can all teleport to them."

Tommy turned back to Adam. "Well?"

Adam hesitated, then caved under his leaders wilting stare. "Okay. Let's bring them back."

~*~

He spun around quickly, and gasped in shock at the sight of the Red Zeo Ranger.

"Tommy?" he stammered, confused. "What are you doing here?"

"We've come to take you and the Scotts back to Angel Grove," Tommy replied quietly. "We're taking you back, to your real father."

Jason paled considerably. "What? No... Tommy, you can't...."

"Your father wants you back, Jason. It's our duty to see that the wrong is righted."

Before Jason could protest, Tommy stepped forward and grabbed hold of his arm. Jason tried to pull away, but he was no match for the morphed strength of his best friend.

"Tommy, stop!" Jason choked out, suddenly frightened. "You don't understand...."

"This is for the best, Jason," Tommy told him. "It's time to go back."

Before Jason could say anything else, Tommy pressed the button on his belt, and they vanished in a flash of red and white light.

~*~

Michael Oliver came forward, looking pale. "Donavon, Sarah I'm sorry." Donavon looked sick, but resigned to fate. "You have your job to do." Michael nodded. "I hope you'll both forgive me. I'm placing you both under arrest for abduction."

He nodded to the younger officers, who took the two adults and began to lead them away. Jason cried out, then, and wrenched away from Tommy, running over and throwing himself into his fathers arms, holding onto him with a death grip.

"Don't go," he sobbed, refusing to let go. Donavon hugged the boy tightly.

"Be strong, Jason. And remember, we've always loved you.... son." Tommy looked over at Rocky and nodded. The two rangers moved in and forcibly detached Jason from Donavon, letting the police take the man away, out of sight. Jason watched in distress, then tried to pull away again, but the rangers held him tightly. Then, another man came into the boy's line of sight.

"Hello, Jason. Do you remember me, son?" Jason froze, his mouth drying up with fear. Matthews nodded to the rangers.

"You can let him go."

They did so and moved back silently. Daniel Matthews reached out and placed his hands on Jason's shoulders.

"I have been searching for you for so long! Thirteen years! Now, I have my son back...."

"You're not my father" Jason whispered hoarsely. Matthews frowned just a little, then forced his burgeoning anger back.

"It's all right," he said reassuringly. "I know you must be very confused. Don't worry, Jason. I'll take care of you. You've got nothing to worry about."

Jason was at a loss, too frightened to speak out. Matthews placed an arm around his shoulders and, although it looked like a protective gesture, to Jason it felt possessive.

"Thank you for bringing my son back," Matthews said to the rangers. "I will always appreciate it."

Tommy nodded. "It was our pleasure, Captain Matthews." Matthews pulled Jason towards the door. "If you don't need anything of me or my son, Chief Oliver, I'll be taking Jason back to the hotel with me. We're flying back to Chicago tonight."

Jason felt nauseous. _Chicago?_

"You're free to go," Chief Oliver replied. "Jason, I hope you'll be happy with your father."

Jason scanned the room, and his gaze came to rest briefly on the rangers. In that instant, pure hatred seared through the boy's heart and soul, a hatred that would possibly never be purged.

_I'll never forgive you for this_ he thought, enraged. Then, Matthews ushered him out of the door, and out of their sight.

~*~

"They're not your mother and father, Jason. I am your father. You'd better get used to that very quickly. And as to what will happen to them... Probably six to ten years for kidnapping. You don't have to worry about it, though. You'll never see them again."

Jason bit down hard on his lower lip, not daring to speak for the fear that his memories were causing him.

~*~

Jason caught the double meaning in Matthews words, and felt renewed fear. _What's he going to do to me?_

Matthews finished packing, then turned to Jason. Time for a few lessons... "Who is your father, Jason?"

Jason frowned, confused. What sort of a question was that? "What d'you mean?"

"Answer me. Who is you father?"

Jason's jaw clenched, and he spoke stubbornly. "My father is Donavon Scott...."

His words ended in a pained cry as Matthews belted him across the face, knocking him to the floor.

"Wrong answer. Who is your father?"

Jason lay still, not speaking. _You can fight him!_ a voice inside him screamed. _Fight the bastard! Don't let him do this to you..._

Jason got to his feet slowly. "My father..." He drew in a sharp breath, then spun around and lashed out with his foot, kicking Matthews squarely in the stomach and causing him to slam back into the cupboard. "....is not you!" he finished, spitting the words out as he tasted blood in his mouth.

Matthews stared at Jason in disbelief. Little bastard.... He got to his feet. "I see you've learned to defend yourself." Jason glared at Matthews with burning anger. "I'm a black belt in karate."

Matthews nodded, then suddenly delivered a roundhouse kick that almost knocked Jason right out. The teen went down hard, too stunned to move. Matthews came to stand over him.

"So am I. I also know a fair bit of Kung Fu. Plus, I'm a hell of a lot fucking stronger than you are. So, if you ever do anything like that to me again, I'll take your damned head off. Understand?"

Jason responded with a faint moan, his skull on fire with fresh pain. Matthews nodded.

"Good. Don't forget it."

Three months later....
"Tommy, do you miss Jason?" Rocky asked as they studied together in the Youth Centre. Tommy nodded.

"Yeah, but I'm sure he's happy with his real father."

"I mean you don't feel bad about it at all?" he asked. Tommy eyed Rocky curiously.

"How do you mean?"

Rocky sighed. "The way it happened.... Us going in there like big heroes, and everything... I got the impression that Jason didn't want to go back."

"He didn't," Tommy confessed, "but it was for his own sake. Besides, the police would have found them eventually. At least we could take them back without anyone getting hurt."

"I don't know," Rocky muttered. "They did a pretty good job of avoiding the police for thirteen years. And we never found out why they took Jase. I mean, what reason could they have had....?"

"It's pretty obvious," Tommy said with a sigh. "Mr and Mrs Scott didn't have a child, they wanted one.... They just set their sights on Jase. They never hurt him in any way, but that's not the point. Jason belongs with his real father. Everything's the way it should be."

Rocky reluctantly conceded. "If you say so...."

"I do. Stop worrying about it. It's been three months. I'll bet Jase is happy enough, now."

Again, Rocky conceded, but he couldn't quite rid himself of the unease that plagued him.

Chicago....
Jason sat curled up on his bed in his room, looking slowly through his small collection of baseball cards. It was the one pleasure that his father had allowed him to have; the karate had ended with the confrontation in the hotel room three months ago, and all other sports were banned. Why? Jason had dared to ask. Because there was a danger that he'd make friends, came the sharp reply.

Jason leant back against the wall as he came to a halt at his favourite card, an antique Babe Ruth rookie card. It was worth a small fortune, and he had come across it by sheer accident a month ago in a secondhand store. He'd taken a big risk and shown it to his father, but for once, there had been no recriminations. Rather, the old bastard had congratulated him on his good sense, and told him to take good care of it.

He stared tiredly at the card, and for a moment was able to forget the pain of the last beating. For just a brief moment, his chest, shoulders and stomach no longer hurt, and the throbbing pain in his temple seemed to fade. He shut his eyes, and tried to imagine himself back with Donavon and Sarah, away from everyone and everything that wanted to hurt him

"Daydreaming again?" a harsh voice asked from the doorway. Jason sat up quickly.

"I finished my homework. It's on the desk." Matthews walked over to the desk and eyed the open books approvingly. "Good. You're learning. Let's see...."

He paused as he looked over the work. Math... History... Geometry... He nodded.

"This is pretty good. Now, put those cards away and put on something decent. We're going out to dinner with the city chief of police."

Jason quickly put the cards away in a shoe box and slid it under his bed.

"Do you want me to wear the jacket you bought me?" Matthews hesitated, then nodded. "Yes. Wear that. Now, hurry up." Jason got changed quickly and pulled the expensive jacket on over his white shirt. He hated the jacket, but if it put his father in a good mood, then it was worth it. Glancing once at himself in the mirror, he went out into the lounge room, where his father was waiting.

"I'm ready."

Matthews nodded. "Okay. Let's go."

~*~

"You know the procedure," Matthews warned him. "Speak only when you're spoken to. Don't ever ask any questions. Be polite. The chief has a son. Don't get too friendly with him."

Jason nodded silently. It was the same thing every time. He'd gotten the same lecture the night before his first day of school. He'd soon learnt that disobeying in any way meant a heavy beating, and had reluctantly become subservient and docile. It was the only way he could survive, but still he got the beatings. And, when his father was in a particularly foul or especially good mood, other things. Things that were totally unspeakable....

They arrived at the restaurant, and Matthews spoke harshly to his son as they entered.

"You behave properly tonight, or else. You understand me?"

"Yes, sir," Jason whispered, not daring to look up. Matthews smiled, then.

"We're finally starting to understand each other. This is good. Maybe afterwards, when we get home, we'll have a little celebration. What d'you think?"

Jason hung his head, not replying. Matthews chuckled to himself and led the way inside.

~*~

"Zack, stop fidgeting."

"But, Dad...."

"You heard me."

Zack scowled. "I don't see why I have to be here. Captain Matthews is an arrogant bastard."

Taylor wanted to reproach his son, but couldn't. Rather, he silently agreed.

"Matthews is a good officer, Zack. Besides, he's bringing his own son along tonight. I thought you might be company for him. Look, here he comes now... Oh my god...."

Zack saw his father's face turn a deep ashen, and looked to see what was wrong. An instant later, he swore vehemently, drawing the attention of a number of people. Matthews, oblivious at that point to any problems, reached the table and offered his superior a smile.

"Hello, sir."

Taylor nodded, struggling to keep his voice even. "Matthews. Sit down, please."

They all sat, and Zack tried frantically to get Jason's attention, but the teen refused to look up. Finally, though, Taylor spoke.

"This is your son?"

Matthews looked sideways at the boy. "Jason?" Jason finally looked up, and froze, his mouth half-open. An instant later, survival instinct kicked in and he spoke meekly.

"Pleased to meet you, sir."

His gaze fell on Zack for just a second, and then he diverted his gaze again quickly. Zack sat back, confused. Jason was acting as though he didn't know him....

In his own seat, Taylor was feeling sick. Jason was the kidnapped son that Matthews had gone to find? If that was true, and it obviously was, then what had happened to Donavon and Sarah? He didn't have to wait long for an answer. After half an hour and a couple of glasses of champagne, Matthews talked freely, and eventually began to boast about how the couple had each gotten six years imprisonment for abduction.

Zack felt like throwing up. He'd known the Scotts for a long time, and knew they'd never done anything that deserved jail. If they had kidnapped Jason, there must have been a reason.

"Of course," Matthews went on, "if it hadn't been for those Power Rangers, I probably wouldn't have Jason back now. They went and collected him for me."

Zack looked anxiously at Jason, just in time to see a single tear fall to the tablecloth. Jason was crying....

The night went by almost painfully. Several times, Zack tried to engage Jason in conversation, and each time Jason sidestepped it with short, monosyllabic answers. It was almost as though Jason was too frightened to speak. Whatever the reason, it was nothing like the Jason that Zack had known, and he said as much to his father later that night, when they finally got home.

"I know," Taylor said grimly. "That was not the same boy that Donavon and Sarah raised. That boy was frightened of his own shadow. I think that, first thing tomorrow, I'm going to find out what's going on. It's late, Zack. Go to bed. We'll worry about this tomorrow."

Zack went, but unable to get that night out of his mind.

The next day....
Trini Kwan was waiting for Zack the next day at the school gate, bursting with excitement. She was so enthusiastic that she didn't notice Zack was lacking his usual morning brightness.

"Zack, guess what! Kim is coming to school here, now that she's finished the Pan Global! She's starting today!"

"That's great," Zack muttered. Trini's face fell. "What's wrong?"

Zack looked at her for a moment. "Trini, I saw Jason last night."

"Jason? Our Jason? Here, in Chicago?"

"Yeah. And apparently he's been here for three months. He's at this school."

"Huh? That's impossible! We would've seen him!"

"Not if he didn't want to be seen. Trini, the guy I saw last night wasn't the same person that we knew in Angel Grove. It... God, It was scary. He's totally changed, Trini. He never spoke, except when someone spoke to him. He tried as hard as he could to avoid any eye contact and he wouldn't talk to me. Not at all. He acted like he didn't even know me."

Trini was confused. "That isn't like Jason."

"I know. I'm scared, Trini. Scared for Jason. Something real bad is going on, I can feel it."

"But, what's he doing here? When did the Scotts move?" Zack sighed. "That's just it. He isn't with Mr and Mrs Scott anymore. Apparently they kidnapped Jason when he was five years old. Three months ago, Jason's real dad showed up in Angel Grove to take him back. Now, the Scotts are doing time for kidnapping, and Jason's back with his real dad."

Trini brushed a strand of hair absently out of her eyes. "Something doesn't sound right. Donavon and Sarah Scott aren't the sort of people to just snatch a child. Not unless they thought they had a good reason."

"That's what my dad said," Zack replied. "He's looking into it today, to see what he can find out. I want to try and find Jase today, and see if he can tell me anything."

"Count me in," Trini said firmly. "I'd like to know what's going on myself."

~*~

"Hey, Zack, heard you're looking for someone." Zack nodded. "Yeah, an old friend. Jason Scott. You know him?"

"I don't know any Jason Scott, but there's a Jason Matthews, been here about three months. His dad is that psycho captain from the 14th precinct. If you want to know where he is, Grimshaw's beating him up out back of the gym."

Zack looked at the girls, stricken, and the three of them took off for the gym.

~*~

Seeing he was getting much of a reaction, Grimshaw slammed his knee into Jason's midsection, effectively winding him. He then let go with another volley of punches, this time bringing Jason to the ground. He was about to finish the job when someone suddenly grabbed him and threw him backwards, into the gym wall.

"What the...." Grimshaw snarled. "Taylor, you asshole!"

"You're the asshole, Grimshaw. Now, get the hell out of here."

"It's none of your damned business," Grimshaw snarled. Zack stood his ground, directly between the prone Jason and the school bully.

"This is my friend, and I'm making it my business. Now, beat it! Unless you wanna take me on, in a fair fight?"

Grimshaw spat into the dirt. "Fine. Have the wimpy little prick. C'mon, guys, let's beat it."

They stalked off, leaving Zack and the girls alone with Jason. Immediately, they gathered round him.

"Jason?" Zack asked anxiously as Trini gathered him up tenderly in her arms. "C'mon, Jase..."

Jason opened his eyes.

"Are... Are they gone?"

"Yeah. Man, you're a mess."

Jason licked his dusty lips a little. "Thanks, Zack." Zack smiled a little. "So, you do remember me. After last night, I thought you'd forgotten."

Jason sat up slowly. "I... I'm sorry about that. It's just how he expected me to act."

"Matthews?"

"Yeah."

Trini looked anxious. "Jason, what's going on?" Jason hesitated, then spoke softly, telling them about everything, except the abuse. They listened grimly, and then Kimberly spoke tightly.

"The rangers had no right to do that. None at all. If something like this had happened when we were rangers, Zordon would have told us to mind our own business. I can't believe he let them get away with it!"

Jason looked away, to the ground. "He was so self-righteous about it, saying the wrong had to be righted, or some bullshit like that. I won't forgive him for this. Not ever."

Zack pulled Jason to his feet. "C'mon, we'll take you to the nurse. See that Grimshaw didn't do any damage."

Jason shook his head. "No, I can't. I can't let the nurse see."

"But you could be hurt!" Trini protested. Jason rubbed his chest gingerly.

"Probably just some bruised ribs. Look, I can't go to the nurse, and that's all there is to it. Okay?"

The others reluctantly conceded, and began to walk back to the building.

"Look," Zack said finally, "how about we all go to my place after school?"

"No," Jason murmured, "I can't. I have to go straight home after school each day."

"Since when?" Zack asked incredulously. Jason tightened his jaw. "It's the rule. I can't break it. I have to go straight home."

"Well, you can be a bit late. We'll stop at the milk bar, or something...."

Jason shook his head, frustrated. "No! You don't get it! I can't be late! He times me, he knows how long it takes. If I'm more than a minute or so late, then he'll..." Jason faltered, his face paling as he thought of something that was beyond the others' realm of imagination. "I just can't be late."

"What is he," Kimberly asked incredulously, "your father or your jailer? What does he do, torture you, or something?"

Tears sprung to Jason's eyes. "I have to go," he said in a strained voice. "I can't afford to get detention for being late to class. He'd kill me."

Jason ran off towards the building before the others could say a word. They stared at each other in disturbed silence.

"You don't think...." Trini whispered. Zack shivered. "Oh, god... I don't like the way this is shaping up."

"It couldn't be," Kim said. "Jason would never let anyone get the better of him. Not like that."

"The old Jason wouldn't have," Zack corrected. "This is a new Jason, totally different to the guy we all knew. I don't know for sure what's happened to him over the past few months, but I think we'd better find out, quick."

~*~

"I got beaten up."

Matthews stood up, suddenly angry. "By who?"

"John Grimshaw."

"That son of a bitch? One of these days that someone will have to teach that kid a lesson. Are you hurt bad?"

"Some bruised ribs," Jason admitted tentatively. Matthews nodded. "Okay. Go and take a couple of tablets and lie down for a while." Jason faltered. He had an assignment that he had to finish.... "I have homework to do," he said finally, terrified of his father's reaction to him talking back. Matthews stared at Jason for a long moment, taking in the boy's frightened expression. He had taught him well...

"Don't worry about it tonight," he told him. "You won't do a good job when you can't concentrate. Just go and lie down, and I'll bring dinner in to you. I'll write a note for your teachers, so there won't be any trouble."

Jason withheld a sigh of relief. "Thank you," he murmured, and went down the narrow hall to his room.

~*~

Jason sighed a little. He thanked God for his grandmother. Though she was his paternal grandmother, she clearly had a less than bountiful amount of affection for her son. In fact, upon meeting her for the first time two and a half months ago, Jason had been terrified of her, expecting her to be as cruel as his father. It hadn't been true, though. She was a kind old woman who had done everything in her power to relieve Jason of the nightmare of his father's influence. The occasional times he spent with her were a blessing for him, and he always looked forward to seeing her.

But now... Now things were changing again. Not only was Zack back in his life, but Trini and Kimberly as well. He knew they would not rest until they knew what was going on, and why he had changed so much. He suspected that, unintentionally, they would bring down serious trouble on him. He twisted a little, and winced at the pain in his side. If he'd still been with the Scotts, they would have rushed him off to the emergency room of the hospital as soon as he'd walked in the door. But, no. He had to deal with the pain of the beating on his own, because his father would not take the risk of anything being discovered.

Jason lifted his head a little, hearing the phone ring. His father answered it, and he heard the muffled sound of him talking. Nearly five minutes later, Matthews came into the room, looking thoroughly angry.

Jason sat up quickly, anticipating a beating. "What did you do last night?" Matthews demanded. Jason looked frightened.

"I... I don't know what...."

"Chief Taylor's boy! He wants to see you. Chief Taylor told me to bring you around to his home tomorrow, for dinner! Dammit, Jason...."

Jason shied away, his hands coming up to protect his already bruised face. "Please, Dad, no..."

Matthews lifted his fist threateningly. "What did you do?"

"Nothing," Jason sobbed. "I swear it, I didn't do anything!" The officer hesitated, and Jason thought he was going to be spared a beating. He lowered his hands a little, only to suffer a fist to his skull. Matthews leaned over the boy, furious.

"I warned you. You must have done something, otherwise he wouldn't want to see you. Time for a new lesson, Jason."

Jason tried to protect himself, but it was pointless, and Matthews went on to beat him thoroughly, hitting him in the chest and stomach and sides. Nearly five minutes later, Matthews finally ceased his assault and looked down at his teenage son. Jason was clutching his stomach in pain, and his face had turned a sickly shade of grey.

Shaking his head in disgust, Matthews dragged Jason up and pulled him through into the bathroom, maneuvering him over the toilet.

"Go on," he growled, and Jason shuddered, going on to be violently ill. Matthews then cleaned the boy up and took him back to his bedroom, depositing him on his bed.

"Get some rest, now," he told him. "You need to be presentable tomorrow night when you go to the Taylor's for dinner."

Jason barely heard, and was unaware when his father left him alone. He continued to lie still for some time, curled up in a tight ball, before fatigue overcame him and he fell into a restless sleep.

~*~

"Come into the family room," Chief Taylor said quietly, ushering Jason through into the spacious room. "Sit down, and tell us what is going on."

Jason stared intently at the floor. "You already know. Mum... I mean, the Scotts... aren't my parents. They kidnapped me. Daniel Matthews is my real dad."

"I didn't mean that," Taylor said quietly. "I meant why you came in here tonight looking like you could hardly stand straight. And why you allowed John Grimshaw to beat you up yesterday in school. And why, in that restaurant, you acted like you were Matthew's lackey instead of his son. You've changed, Jason. Why?"

Jason tightened his grip on the arms of the chair. "Please, don't make me tell you. There's nothing you can do."

Taylor moved forward to stand in front of the teen, signaling Zack not to speak. "Jason, I'm the Chief of Police. I have authority over Matthews. If he is hurting you in any way, I have the power to put a stop to it."

Jason looked up, tears flooding his eyes. "Do you have the power to get Mum and Dad out of jail?"

Taylor faltered, and Jason nodded.

"I didn't think so. Unless you can do that, then don't bother. I don't want to end up in a foster home somewhere, and that's what'll happen. At least now, I know where I'll be each night."

Taylor stared at Jason in shock. "Jason, what is he doing to you?"

"Nothing," Jason whispered. "He isn't doing anything. He's my father, why would he want to hurt me?"

When Taylor faltered again, Zack came forward. "Why are you lying, Jason? Who are you trying to protect?" Jason looked away before the floodgates could be reopened. "You don't understand. You'll never understand."

Suddenly, Taylor saw it. A deep, purple-black welt just visible beneath Jason's light brown hair. It was an ugly thing, and very recent. "What is this?" Taylor wanted to know. Jason paled considerably, and spoke the first thing that came to mind.

"I... I had an accident..."

Taylor grabbed Jason's arm and pulled up his shirt sleeve to reveal the start of horrendous bruising, covering Jasons shoulder. Zack swore in shock and horror. Taylor spared the teen a grim look.

"Which was it? Fell down the stairs, or walked into a door? Or have you come up with a new excuse?"

"I... I'm clumsy...."

"Bullshit!" Zack exploded. "Jase, that's bullshit!"

"Shut it, Zack," Taylor snapped. "Jason, talk to me. No lies, no excuses. I want the truth. Right now."

"It started happening straight away," Jason whispered. "The first afternoon, before we left Angel Grove. Back in the hotel, he tried to make me call him dad, but I wouldn't, so he hit me across the face. I kicked him, to make him stop, but he's stronger than me, and he knows more martial arts. He nearly took my head off... I can't fight him! I tried, but I can't! I have to do what he tells me, it's the only way I can survive..."

His voice cracked audibly, and he began to cry, the tension of the last three months finally being partially lifted off his now frail shoulders. Taylor moved quickly, pulling the boy close in a protective hug.

"It's all right. Everything's going to be all right, I promise."

A short time later....
Jason ate a large dinner, grateful to be able to eat until he was full, and not just enough to keep him from passing out. Even Zack was stunned by the amount of food Jason put away, but then, he was far thinner than Zack remembered. Indeed, Zack recalled a stocky boy from his memories: Jason was no more stocky now than a gazelle.

After dinner, Zack led Jason upstairs to his bedroom. "Not bad," Jason commented, and Zack smiled to himself. After having eaten a decent amount, Jason was starting to sound a little like his old self again. "You've got plenty of room in this place."

Zack grinned. "The Commissioner takes pretty good care of Dad. We do all right."

Jason looked around the room, feeling a twinge of jealousy. Zack had a stereo unit, a television and VCR, an expensive-looking computer set-up and a games drive to hook up to the television. He thought of his small, bare room, and the one pleasure he had, the baseball cards under his bed.

"Maybe Dad can tell your dad that you're staying for the night," Zack suggested. Jason paled.

"No... Please, Zack, don't. You don't understand. He was angry enough yesterday when your dad told him to bring me around. He'd be furious if I stayed here overnight."

Zack sighed. "Okay, scrap that idea. We'll just stuff around on the Internet for a while."

Jason swallowed hard. "You have the Internet?"

"Course. Don't you?"

Jason looked bitter. "Me? I'm not even allowed to watch the television. That's for him only. I snuck out of bed one night to watch a movie that I hadn't seen before, and he caught me..."

"And?" Zack prompted.

"And I was too sick to go to school for the next week."

"Oh, shit."

"Yeah."

Zack shook his head, and went over and switched the computer on. "Look, I've got an idea. I have Tommy's email address. How about we let him know where you are?"

The pale, fearful look on Jasons face faded abruptly to be replaced by one that bore nothing but pure hatred.

"No."

"Don't you want to talk to him?" Zack asked in confusion. "He's usually online around this time each day"

"Didn't you hear me yesterday?" Jason asked in a strained voice. "I can't forgive him for what he's done to me. Not now, not ever. I hate him, Zack. He's totally wrecked my life. Him and his self-righteous ego... I hate him."

Zack was horrified by the vehemence with which Jason was speaking. He really meant it, every word...

"Jase... Listen to yourself, man!"

"I am. I know what I'm saying."

Zack swallowed hard. "I didn't think you were serious. I thought you were just a bit upset..."

Jason's hands curled into fists. "A bit upset? Just a bit? How would you feel if you were yanked away from your mum and dad, told they weren't really your parents, and your real father had suddenly shown up to take you away? You know where my mum and dad are now, don't you? You heard him bragging the other night about it."

Zack lowered his gaze. Yes, he knew. "State Penitentiary in California."

"That's right. Serving six year sentences for kidnapping and evading justice. How would you like it if that happened to you?"

"I know you're angry," Zack said, "but c'mon.... You can't blame Tommy for this!"

"Yes, I can. I can blame all of them for it. They had no right to interfere, Zack. None at all. But, no, they had to be all high and mighty and be heroes, didn't they? Didn't stop to think that there might have been another side to it. And, I knew they wanted to get rid of me so they could have their little clique again, but I didn't realise they'd go as far as that." He shook his head, distressed. "Tommy was supposed to be my best friend, Zack, but look at the position he's put me in! I would never have done this to him. Never."

"I know," Zack murmured. "I understand." Just then, the door opened and Chief Taylor looked in. "Jason? He's come for you."

Jason stood up slowly, and glanced at Zack. "I've gotta go." Zack caught hold of his wrist. "We'll see you tomorrow, won't we? At school..."

Jason shrugged. "Maybe. Depends."

"On what?"

Again, Jason shrugged. "Just depends."

With that, he turned and walked out of the room, leaving Zack to stand by himself in silent concern.

~*~

"No. I'd rather not go back, Dad."

Matthews eyed him curiously. "Why not?"

"I just didn't like it there."

"Okay, then," Matthews said, sounding less tense. Jason breathed a silent sigh of relief.

_Thank you, God_ he thought silently.

"Did you eat anything much?"

Jason swallowed hard. "I didn't want to.... But they practically stood over me. I didn't have a choice. I'm sorry..."

"It's all right. We'll just go straight home, now. You managed Chief Taylor all right?"

"Yeah. He, uh... He was saying you're a really good cop, one of the best."

Jason was lying through his teeth, now, but he desperately wanted to put his father in a good mood to avoid another beating. Unfortunately, the flattery was working too well.

"Really?"

"Yeah. He, um, he said you might be in line for a promotion...."

"That's something... Maybe we should have a little celebration, then..."

Jason paled. That was not what he had been hoping for... Matthews was grinning, pleased with himself.

"Yeah. When we get home... We'll celebrate. I know, I haven't gotten it yet, but still... That tough son of a bitch hardly ever offers promotions. Yes.... We'll celebrate in my bedroom..."

Jason sank down in his seat, his head starting to spin. It was too late now, though, and taking back what he'd said would only result in a severe beating. He shut his eyes, and could only pray that it would be over with quickly.

The Chicago Apartment, a short time later....
"Go and get into my bed," Matthews told him as they entered the apartment. "Don't try and be smart like the last time. You know the drill. I'll be there in a minute."

Jason went, his shoulders slumped despondently. If it wasn't constant beatings, then it was this. Humiliating, degrading treatment, the likes of which he had never imagined possible. He entered the bedroom and began to strip off, knowing what wrath stubborn refusal would bring down on him. Now, it would be best to go along with it, and let it happen. If he fought, he would only be beaten senseless, and then Matthews would rape him anyway. Best to just avoid the beating, if possible...

He pulled off the last of his clothing, placed it in a neat pile in the corner of the room. He then went and climbed into the double bed and waited. It was a few minutes before Matthews came into the room. He wasted no time, but strode over and yanked back the covers, revealing his sons nakedness. The sadistic man nodded, gratified.

"Good. You are learning. Move over."

Jason shifted over, and watched with nausea as Matthews stripped completely, leaving nothing on, and then climbed into the bed next to the teenage boy. Matthews then reached down to fondle Jason, causing the boy to whimper in pain. He grinned cruelly, and squeezed harder, bringing tears to Jason's eyes.

"You like that, don't you?"

Jason shuddered, fighting off the urge to be sick. "Y... Yes..."

"You want me to do more, don't you?"

"Yes... Dad...."

Matthews sat up, straddling his helpless son. "Do you love me, Jason?"

"I love you, Dad" Jason whispered hoarsely. He hated this ritual that he was forced to endure at least once every couple of weeks, sometimes more, but he had no choice. Matthews had proven at the very beginning that he was stronger and more physically able than Jason, especially in terms of martial arts. Nor could Jason run. His father was a top police officer, and had more than enough resources to find him.

"Jason?"

Jason opened his eyes slowly, his heart beating in his throat. "Yes, Dad?"

"Show me how you love me, Jason."

Jason forced all emotion to the back of his soul as he performed the vile ritual, making himself go almost completely cold. One thought lingered in his mind, and one emotion remained. Hatred, pure and simple, burned in him, hatred that was directed at Tommy and the other rangers. He let that hatred grow, anger being the only thing that kept his heart and soul alive, and stopped him short of the drop to total insanity.

The next day....
"You think he'll be here?" Trini asked softly.

Zack sighed. "I don't know. Damn, I hate this. How could Jase let that bastard hurt him like that?"

Kimberly laid a hand gently on his arm. "He must have his reasons for not fighting back."

"Maybe," Trini murmured, "his father is as much of a fighter as Jason is. You said Jason told you that he knew more about martial arts. If that's true, then he would have easily been able to beat Jason back. Zack, we have to focus on helping Jason."

"I know, but we can only do that if Jase lets us help. Wait... there he is!"

They looked around to see Jason enter the building, moving slowly, as though he were in pain. The teens exchanged fearful looks, and hurried to meet him.

"Jason?" Trini asked softly, gently taking his arm. Jason regarded his friends with red-rimmed eyes.

"Hey."

"You look awful," Kim said, feeling her throat constrict as she saw the despair in Jason's eyes. Jason looked away from her.

"I'm okay. No worse than usual."

"What happened last night?" Zack asked. "Did he, like, hit you at all?"

"No. He didn't hit me. Not that time."

"Then, what...?"

Jason slowed to a halt, glancing around the nearly deserted corridors. A strained smile flickered over his features.

"You know, I don't know what's worse anymore. Sometimes, I think I can handle it, because it's not supposed to hurt. But then, it seems like doing that hurts even worse than the beatings. I don't know what's worse. The outside hurt or the inside hurt."

Zack felt the blood drain from his face. "Jase, what d'you mean, the inside hurt? What'd he do to you?"

Jason pulled away from Kim and Trini. "I have to get to class." He walked away, up the corridor, leaving the three teens to stare after him in helpless silence.

~*~

Zack groaned. "Not you, too... C'mon, Kim, blaming Tommy and the others isn't gonna change anything. We've gotta redirect, girl!"

Trini absently picked at the blades of grass. "You could argue that it didn't matter whether the rangers involved themselves, that the police would have found them anyway."

"Exactly," Zack jumped in quickly. Trini looked up. "But there would have been that much more time to gather possible evidence to stop Matthews from taking Jason. Time for Jason to remember, so he could make his own protest. The rangers never allowed for that. They just waltzed in, like... like I don't know what. But they had no right to interfere. I can understand why Jason is so angry at them. Maybe the Scotts would still have gone to jail, but he would not have been put back with Matthews. He wouldn't be in such an abusive situation right now."

Zack looked defeated. That was logic that he couldn't argue with. "Okay," he conceded reluctantly. "So what do we do? We've gotta help him, somehow."

"I could talk to my father," Trini said thoughtfully. "He could investigate the whole business. Maybe something went down on record from thirteen years ago. If it did, it might be cause to open a case."

Zack nodded. "I know my dad is looking into it. He hates Matthews, and I know he wants to get Jason away from him. Especially after seeing all the bruising and stuff last night..."

"I think," Kim said quietly, "that we have to pull together and look after Jason while we're at school. It's probably the only chance we'll have to see him. God knows, his old man won't let us see him at all. He's having a really tough time, especially with not protecting himself against morons like John Grimshaw."

Trini agreed. "We can at least make things a little more pleasant for him here."

"Okay," Zack said firmly, as he spied Jason on the far side of the grounds, being hassled by some other teens. "I say we put Operation Relief into effect right now. C'mon."

The girls followed Zack quickly across the grass, to where Jason was trying hard to ignore the taunts of some of his peers. Zack didn't pause, but stormed straight through to place himself squarely in front of Jason.

"Do you guys have a problem?" he asked tightly, eyeing the teens threateningly. The leader, a big boy by the name of Bruce Cohen, glared at Zack.

"No, but you might if you don't get out of the way."

"Why?" Zack shot back. "So you can use Jason for target practise? No way, Cohen."

Cohen sneered. "You know this loser, huh? Not gonna give yourself a good image, protecting washouts likes this."

Zack's hands clenched into fists. "The only loser is you, for needing your whole gang to corner one person. And for your information, Jason is no loser. He's got a hell of a lot more guts than you do."

Cohen hesitated, then shrugged. "Whatever." He looked around Zack to the pale-faced boy that he'd back up to the wall. "I'll catch up with you later, Matthews. After school, maybe..."

Trini stepped in, folding her arms across her chest. "Oh, no you won't. You either leave him alone, or you can deal with all of us. We're not scared to fight, Cohen. We will, if you make us."

Cohen blinked, suddenly disconcerted. Taking one weakling of a boy down with his gang backing him up was one thing, but to be challenged by three teenagers, two of whom he knew were just as capable as himself He decided to back down and, sparing them cold looks, stormed away, with his gang in tow. Zack waited until he'd gone, then turned back to Jason.

"You okay, bro?"

Jason wiped the back of his hand across his eyes, brushing away fresh tears. "Yeah. Thanks."

Kim reached into her pocket and pulled out a clean handkerchief, holding it out to him. Jason took it, his cheeks red with embarrassment, and wiped his eyes.

"Thank you."

"Okay," Zack said firmly, "here's the deal. We're gonna look after you during school, so no one hassles you. I know that's the only time we can see you, and I wont get Dad to make your old man bring you around again. But even if we can't do anything else, we can at least make sure you don't have such a hard time here."

Jason looked relieved that Zack finally seemed to understand the position he was in. "Thanks, Zack."

Kim hugged him warmly. "It'll be all right, Jason. Somehow, everything will work out."

Jason smiled a little at her, but the expression in his eyes suggested anything but hope.

~*~

"Good," Jason replied numbly.

Matthews looked around at him. "No hassles today?"

"No."

"What about homework?"

"Biology and Literature."

Matthews frowned. "Literature Crap. Why do they teach that rubbish?"

Jason remained silent, not daring to say that he enjoyed it. Matthews sighed and shook his head as he got up.

"Go and pack a bag. I have to go on a stakeout, and it could take three or four days. You're going to stay with your grandmother."

Jason very nearly shouted with joy. That was the best news he'd heard for a while... He kept it to himself, though, acting just the way his father expected.

"Yes, Dad. I'll be good. I promise."

"You'd better be. I don't want to have to teach you any lessons when you come home, like I did the last time."

"Yes, sir," Jason said meekly. The last time, his confidence had been bolstered by his grandmother, and he had spoken back to his father once too often. He hadn't been back at school for two weeks after that. Turning, he went to do as he'd been told, silently eager to get out of the apartment and away from his sadistic father.

~*~

"Hello, sweetheart," she murmured, holding him close to make up for the earlier, cold greeting. Jason hugged her back, taking rare pleasure in the close contact.

"Grandma..."

Smiling sadly, she led him through into the warm kitchen, sat the teen down and pulled a tray of chocolate chip fudge cookies out of the oven.

"Here, freshly baked this morning. Help yourself." Jason picked out a cookie and took a large bite out of it, sighing a little with relief. Catherine looked grim.

"He made you go without lunch again, didn't he?" Jason looked miserable. "I never get lunch, Grandma. He always makes me go without."

"Poor baby... Just a moment, and I'll make you some sandwiches. Then, we'll decide where to go for dinner tonight."

Minutes later, Jason was filling his empty stomach with sandwiches as his grandmother ran through a list of possible restaurants. Finally, as Jason finished the last sandwich, she spoke with a smile.

"I know. What about Pizza Palace?"

Jason's face lit up. He hadn't had pizza since before the night the Scotts had fled Angel Grove with him. Catherine laughed at his eager reaction.

"I take it that's a yes. All right, that's where we'll go." Jason swallowed the last of the sandwiches. "Thanks, Grandma. You're the best."

She got up and went around to hug him close. "Anything to make things a bit better for you, honey. Now, I want you to tell me what he's done." She paused, then, glowering at the bruising just beneath his hair. "I'll just get some disinfectant. Are there any others?"

Jason responded without hesitation, pulling off his T-shirt and standing up to show her the welts and wounds that covered his back and chest. Catherine's frown deepened considerably.

"All right. Just let me get some disinfectant and warm water. I'll take care of these."

A few minutes later, Jason sat on a stool in the kitchen as his grandmother tended to the bruises and lacerations.

"He never lets up at all, does he?" she asked softly. Jason stared at the floor.

"No. He always finds something wrong. If I haven't done anything wrong, he'll make it up. The.. The other night, he hit me for not letting the dog out."

Catherine looked up, horrified. "You don't have a dog!"

"See?"

She sighed as she swabbed a particularly nasty cut with disinfectant. "Well, you'll have a few days rest from him, at any rate. There, all done."

Jason pulled his T-shirt back on and stood up. "Thanks, Grandma."

"My pleasure. Are you still hungry?"

Jason looked sheepish, and she smiled sadly at him. "You are. Let me get my purse and keys, and well go for an early dinner. It's all you can eat tonight, Jason. We won't leave until you've had enough to eat."

Jason couldn't resist a faint grin as he followed her out of the kitchen.

"In that case, we could be there all night..."

Angel Grove....
"What are you thinking about?"

Tommy looked sideways at Kat. "A lot of things. Man, I can't believe it's been three months since Jase got back with his real dad."

"Nearly four," Kat murmured. "Tommy...?"

"Mmm?"

Kat stared at the far-off sunset as they sat together at the lookout. "I want to ask you something, but I don't want you to get angry at me."

Tommy came fully back to reality, turning to stare at her. "What is it?"

"I was just wondering.... Why were you so quick to get rid of Jason like that?"

Tommy's expression darkened just a little. "What d'you mean, get rid of him? You make it sound like I wanted him to go."

"I didn't mean it like that. It's just, it seems like you didn't wait to hear the Scotts side of things. Or Jason's side of it. I mean, maybe there was a reason that they took Jason to start with."

"Probably," Tommy conceded. "Probably because they didn't have a kid of their own, and Jason just happened to be convenient. Kat, I've already been over this with Rocky."

"I know. I just still feel strange about the whole thing. I keep getting the feeling there's something we didn't know. And besides, I feel awful that Mr and Mrs Scott went to jail. They were both really nice..."

The Red Ranger stood up. "I liked them too, Kat, but they were doing the wrong thing! They weren't going to give up without a fight, so we really did them a favour. They might have gotten hurt if it had been the police, instead of us. Look, I'm not saying I felt fantastic about it. That look Jason gave us... I know he was angry, and I don't blame him. But it was gonna happen. They couldn't run from the police forever. Jase had to go to school. Maybe they could've hidden a little kid, but not a seventeen year-old. It wouldn't work. We were really protecting them all by doing what we did."

Kat stared at him in the dimming light. "Do you really believe that?"

Tommy clenched his jaw determinedly. "Yes. I do."

Chicago....
"Feeling better now?" Catherine asked her grandson, and Jason nodded, slumping back in the chair with relief.

"Yes. Thanks, Grandma. I wish he let me spend more time with you."

"So do I. Perhaps then, you wouldn't go hungry so often."

"Then he couldn't beat me up so often," Jason murmured miserably. Catherine reached across the table to gently squeeze his hand.

"Be strong, sweetheart. It can't last forever. You'll be eighteen in another five months, and then you'll legally be able to walk away from him."

"He'll never let me walk away," Jason whispered, the tears threatening again. "He'll kill me first."

"No. You know you can come to me. He'd have to go through me to get to you, and he'd never dare lift a finger against me. Too much inheritance at stake."

Jason stared at her wordlessly, not asking the question that lingered in his mind. Catherine saw the look in his eyes, and sighed.

"I know, I'm fooling myself as well. He just has too much damned power. You'd think there was no one in this city who could oppose him."

Jason remained silent, Chief Taylor's words echoing in his mind. _Jason, I'm the Chief of Police. I have authority over Matthews..._

He pushed the thought to the back of his mind. As much as he hated the position he was in, he was too frightened to try and break away from it. Frightened of what would happen to him if he was taken away again... As horrible as it was, he at least had the stability of knowing where he would be every day.

"I'll survive," Jason murmured, eyes cast downwards. "I always do."

~*~

Jason stared at her through a thin film of tears. "Friends? I don't have any friends."

"I know that isn't true. You've mentioned them to me before." Jason sniffed, and wiped away a single tear. "I thought they were my friends, but then they handed me over to him."

"Your friends were the ones to do that?" Catherine echoed, startled. "I thought you said it was those Power Rangers..."

Jason froze for just a second as old instincts surfaced, but then he pushed them away. He obviously was no longer under the protection of the power, he would never be a ranger again, so why be loyal to his vows? After all, the rangers had been anything but loyal to him....

"I know," he murmured. "That was the truth. Grandma... My friends are the Power Rangers."

Somehow, Catherine was not surprised. She stared at him wonderingly. "But you aren't?"

"I was. I was the first Red Ranger until I went to Geneva for the peace conference with Zack and Trini. Then, when I went home, Tommy came to me and asked if I'd support the Gold Ranger powers for Trey. I said yes. Even though it nearly killed me, I didn't regret it until afterwards."

"How do you mean?"

"Just little things," Jason said, sitting up a little. "Like, they'd go out to a movie or something, but forget to invite me. Or at school, when we were supposed to work in groups, I started getting left out. I kept telling myself I was just being stupid. I thought..."

"Not a part of the team anymore?" she asked softly. Jason shook his head miserably.

"No. Then, this all happened, with Mum and Dad... Us taking off late at night I could hardly believe it when Tommy showed up the next day and took me back to Angel Grove. I knew he didn't really want me around that much anymore... I mean, he's got Adam for a best friend, now, but I didn't think he was that desperate. He didn't even wait to listen to me!"

"Maybe he thought he was doing the right thing," Catherine said. "After all, by that time, Daniel probably would have had half the law enforcement agencies in the country looking for the three of you. Perhaps your friends thought if they went to get you, then no one would be hurt."

Jason faltered. He hadn't thought of it like that.... "You think that might be it?" he asked tentatively. Catherine hugged him to her.

"I'm sure of it. Unfortunately, they just didn't realise the consequences for you."

Jason's frown returned. "They didn't even try to hear me out... Or look for information and get the real story... If Billy had been there, he would've stopped them."

Catherine cradled him in her arms. "Sweetheart, there was no information. Nothing ever went down on record. When your father called to let me know that he'd found you, I must have spent the following fortnight looking for any scrap of evidence that would have given me grounds to take you away from him. There was absolutely nothing. He had too many connections in the right places. I suppose that was why Donavon and Sarah Scott resorted to kidnapping you in the end. Of course, Daniel went insane with anger when he couldn't find you, but I was so happy that someone had had the courage to take you away from him... Don't ever forget them, Jason. Even if you do never see them again, don't let him make you forget."

"I won't," Jason whispered tearfully. "I never will."

The following day....
Chief Taylor stood in his office, with a small group of seven younger officers, his most trusted men. Once silence fell, he spoke quietly.

"All right, listen up and listen close. We've got a problem, and it's right here in this precinct. You all know that Matthews got his kid back four months ago?" A murmur went through the group.

Taylor nodded. "Okay. Here's the bottom line. Matthews is beating his son. I've gotten Jason to tell me what Matthews is doing to him, but if we acted on it, he'd deny it all. Proof isn't the issue here, though. Jason has plenty of the trademark bruises to convince any jury in the country. This is the issue. Donavon and Sarah Scott, whom I'm sure you all know went to jail for kidnapping Jason. What I want you men to do is start digging, as deep as you can. Start looking for any records, any such thing that proves the Scotts made official complaints thirteen years ago that Matthews was abusing Jason. If we can turn up some evidence, it might be enough to get a judge to overturn the jail sentence in an appeals court. That is what we are aiming for."

One man spoke up in a tight voice. "What about Matthews? Are we going to let him go on beating on his kid?"

"Right now there isn't much of a choice. Jason is nearly eighteen, and people would be inclined to believe an eighteen year-old knows the difference between punishment and abuse. At this point in time, Jason would deny the abuse is happening. We'll worry about that down the track. Right now I want you to focus on this. And keep it to yourselves, for Gods sake! No one else is to know. You don't even tell your wives!"

"You got it, boss," another man spoke up. "Give us a couple of weeks, or so, and we'll get what you need."

Taylor nodded. "I hope so."

Two days later....
"I wish I didn't have to go home," Jason said dismally as he folded up his spare clothes and packed them into his bag.

Catherine sighed. "So do I, sweetheart. Try and be brave, though." She paused, then held out her arms to him. "One last hug, before he gets here?" she asked.

Jason went to her willingly, allowing himself to be wrapped up in her embrace. Catherine hugged him tightly, and kissed him lightly on the forehead. "It won't last forever, Jason. Nothing bad ever does. Try and keep your chin up until then, okay?"

Jason nodded. "I will."

~*~

Jason sat still, trying to remind himself of the many lessons he'd been dealt by his father. "Yes, sir."

"That's good to know. No back-chatting this time?"

"No, sir."

"Good. We're doing well, Jason. Really well. You're finally getting the hang of it, boy."

Jason said nothing, but continued to stare at the dashboard in miserable silence.

~*~

A month after his brief sabbatical with his grandmother, Jason was waiting in front of the school for his father. The weather had turned bitterly cold over the last few weeks, and Matthews had ordered Jason to wait at school to be picked up. He dared not disobey, even though being picked up meant losing that brief time to himself between the end of school and arriving home.

He was waiting at the front of the school when Trini came up to him, and slipped her arm through his. "We've hardly seen you all day," she chided him lightly. "Where have you been?"

Jason shrugged. "Around. I had papers to research."

"Fair enough," she conceded. "I missed you at lunch time, though. How have you been feeling?"

"No worse than usual," Jason replied. "I'm okay. Things aren't so bad at school now, though, thanks to you guys."

"However we can help," Trini murmured. She hugged him gently, aware of how frail he had become, and how badly bruised he always was. "I really hate to see you hurting like this, Jason, and not be able to do anything about it."

"You have been helping, though," Jason protested. "Every day...."

"I mean, I wish we could get you away from your father, and back with the Scotts. You belong with them, not with Captain Matthews. It isn't right."

Tears filled Jason's eyes and he pulled roughly away from her. "Well, you can't do anything about it, so just forget it. Okay?"

Trini hung her head. "I'm sorry. I should have kept my mouth shut."

Jason felt bad, and he came back to her. "No, I'm sorry. It just hurts, knowing I won't see them again. I really miss them, Trini."

"Of course you would. After all, they're your parents." Jason stared blankly at her. She straightened a little. "Blood doesn't mean anything in circumstances like this. Your parents are the ones that took care of you, and loved you. Not the man that is always hitting you."

She hesitated, then reached out and took his hand lightly in her own. "I really care about you, Jason. Even before this, I knew I cared about you."

She pulled him to her and, before she could think twice, drew his head down to hers for a long, tender kiss. Jason was too startled to respond, nor did she expect him to. Months of training on his fathers part had probably removed any desire for him to show any real emotion.

She kept her lips pressed gently to his for a second longer before moving away. She started to speak, then froze, shock and fear on her face.

"Oh god.... Jason, I'm sorry...."

Jason felt his heart almost stop beating. He knew why she'd suddenly panicked. Turning a little, he saw his father standing there, watching them from ten or so metres away. The fear faded to make way for numb resignation to fate.

"I'll see you in a couple of weeks or so," he murmured, then turned and walked away from her, towards his father.

~*~

Jason didn't answer. He didn't dare. Matthews slung an arm around the boy's shoulders. "C'mon, now, Jason. You can tell me."

Jason knew the safest thing to do would be to pass Trini off as saying that he hardly knew her, and that she had been trying to hit on him. It would have been the safest avenue, but he couldn't bring himself to do it.

"She's my friend," he admitted softly. Matthews spared Jason a curious look.

"Friend? Really.... Well, we'd better get home. I'm sure you have plenty of homework to do. Right?"

"Yes, sir," Jason whispered. They reached the car and Jason climbed in, feeling sick to his stomach. If there was one thing worse than knowing what his father was going to do, it was not knowing what he was going to do. The man was being far too congenial about it, and that scared Jason more than anything. He sank down in the seat, and waited in fearful silence.

~*~

~*~

"Zack? Do you feel like taking a call? It's Trini, and she sounds a bit upset."

Zack sat up quickly, reaching out for the phone. "Thanks. Hey, Trini?"

On the other end, Trini nearly burst into tears. "Zack, I've done something terrible! You have to call your father!"

Zack's eyes widened. Trini had done something wrong? "Calm down, girl! What's wrong?"

"I met Jason after school, and we were talking. I... I don't know why I did it, I just couldn't help it. But he saw, and I'm sure he's going to hurt him because of it..."

Zack rubbed his eyes, confused. "Slow down, Trini. I've got no idea what you're talking about!"

"I kissed Jason!" Trini burst out. "In front of the school! His father saw! Now, I'm scared for Jason...."

Understanding dawned in Zack's mind. "Oh, damn... Are you sure?"

"Yes. Zack, call your dad, please. When Jason left me, he said he'd see me again in a couple of weeks. This is really bad!"

"Okay, I'll call Dad. Try not to panic, okay? I'll call him straight away."

"Thank you," Trini whimpered. Zack went on quickly. "Call Kim and tell her, then go home and wait. I'll let you know if I hear anything."

Trini agreed and hung up. Zack did the same, then looked up at his mother. "Mum, I've gotta call Dad. Trini said she was with Jason after school today. She said she kissed him, and that his dad saw. She's scared he's going to hurt Jason because of it."

Mrs Taylor had paled a little. "If he hurts Jason for little, insignificant things, then he'll certainly react badly to that. Let me have the phone, Zack. I'll tell your father."

Zack handed over the phone willingly, and lay back down to wait for a result.

Chief Taylor's office....
Taylor hung up the phone, and paused a moment to check his heart rate. Right then, he wanted to personally go and remove Jason from Matthews' custody, but he could not legally do it. There was no way he'd be granted an arrest warrant on the grounds that Jason was in danger because his father had seen him kissing a girl....

He got up and walked over to the door, scanning the room to see who was there. "Levy! Get in my office, now!"

The detective came quickly, stepping inside the office and closing the door behind him. "Yes, sir?"

"What have you uncovered on the Scott case? Please, tell me you have something."

Levy grinned. "Actually, sir, I do. I was hoping the others would have come up with something before I showed it to you, but if you want to see it now...."

"Damn straight I do," Taylor growled. "Go and get it, now!"

Levy went to do as he'd been told.

~*~

Jason got out of the car and went around behind the vehicle, looking down at the tail lights.

"Well?"

"They're working," Jason called back. He started to look up, just as the car rolled backwards, hitting his thigh and knocking him to the ground. Jason started to cry out in panic when the car ran over his legs. He screamed, then, in the hope his father would realise he was beneath the car and stop. He heard the engine sound change, and the car moved forward, running over him again.

Jason's mouth was open in a silent scream, the sound muted in his throat. When the car backed over him a second time, he had to realise it was no mistake.

The engine finally shut off, and a moment later a pair of strong hands grabbed his arms and dragged him out from beneath the car. He began to cry, then, gasping for air as the panic hit, sending his heart rate through the roof.

Matthews looked disgusted as he dragged his son to the disused service elevator. "Stop blubbering. It's pathetic."

For once, Jason could not heed the order, and he continued to sob uncontrollably.

"Little bastard," Matthews grunted. "If you were obedient, I wouldn't have had to do this! Kissing a girl, right in front of me... Damned kid! You're more trouble than you're worth, you know that Jason?"

They reached their apartment, unseen by anyone, and Matthews quickly dragged the injured boy through into his tiny bedroom and threw him roughly onto the bed. He then sat down beside him.

"Now, Jason, what do you say?"

Jason fought to breathe evenly. "I... I hate you...." he whispered, pain giving him the strength of defiance.

Matthews' expression hardened. "What was that?"

"I hate you!" Jason exploded. "I hate you, I hate you so goddamned much!"

Matthews hands curled into fists. "Is that so?" He looked down at the mangled mess that was his son's legs. "All right, then." He stood up slowly. "I have to go to work, and when I come home, I'll deal with you properly. I hope your friend won't miss you too much. You won't be seeing her again."

Smirking coldly to himself, he left the room, leaving Jason to lie in pain on his bed.

14th Precinct....
Chief Taylor looked up impatiently as Levy ran back into his office, pulling the door shut behind him. "This had better be worth the wait, Detective."

"It is, sir. This on its own will be enough to get the Scotts out of jail."

Taylor sat forward. "What is it?"

"A tape, sir. I have an anonymous friend in a certain records department that kept this audio tape when she'd been told by a certain Captain to destroy it. She didn't like his hitting on her, and decided to keep it to get him off her back. She's never used it, though, and forgot about it until now."

"Put it on, then," Taylor growled. Levy slipped it into the stereo and switched it on. A moment later, Matthews' voice filled the room.

"You're a fool, Scott. You're totally out of your league."

"Maybe I am," came the angry reply, "but you are abusing your son! I know it, my wife knows, and this whole damn city is going to know it by the time we've finished! You can't deny it, Matthews....."

"Oh, I'm not trying to, Scott. I'll admit it. I beat the crap out of that little shit every day. It's practise for dealing with the real criminals, you see. You want to know what I do to him? First, I smack him around a little. Then, I get his shirt off and start on him with my belt. I use the buckle, it does more damage, and it hurts more. I make sure to leave a few marks that'll scar, too. Little reminders for him."

"That's not all you do, you bastard," Donavon Scott spat.

Matthews responded with a laugh. "What'd you do, have your little wife go over him with a magnifying glass? Yeah, I do other stuff to him. You want to know what else I do? Here's what I do...."

"Turn it off," Taylor growled, sickened.

Levy hit the stop button, then looked back to the chief of police. "What now?"

"I'm getting a warrant, and then we put Plan A into action. Find the boys and send them to my office, then call Carl at the D.A.'s office. Tell him we've got the evidence we need to do what we discussed."

"Yes, sir."

"Move it, Levy."

Levy fled the room and Taylor leaned over to grab the phone, hoping silently that they weren't too late.

~*~

Reaching up, he pulled the phone off the little coffee table onto the floor beside him. Fumbling with the hand piece, he brought it to his face with one hand and managed to dial a memorized number with the other. It rang nearly seven times before it was finally answered.

"Hello?"

Jason gave a choked sob. "Grandma...."

On the other end of the line, Catherine Matthews felt her blood run cold. Something serious must have happened for Jason to risk phoning her.... "Jason, what's wrong? What's happened, honey?"

"The car..." Jason sobbed. "The car... Grandma, please.... Come and get me...."

"Jason, tell me what he's done to you!" Catherine persisted.

Jason was crying openly, but somehow managed to force it out. "He ran me down.... The car.... He ran me down with the car.... Please come and get me..... Before he comes back....."

Catherine felt the sharp stab of fear. "Oh lord... Just hang on, Jason. I'll be there in five minutes."

Jason heard the click of the phone disengaging, and slumped down on the floor, waiting for his grandmother to arrive.

~*~

Jason looked up in a daze. "Grandma?"

"Yes, honey. Just hang on. I'm going to call for help."

"Zack's dad..." Jason whispered. "Call Zack's dad.... Police Chief..."

Catherine was startled. "You mean Chief Taylor?"

Jason shivered. "My friend's dad..."

Catherine hesitated for just a moment before reaching for the phone to make the call.

~*~

Taylor hung up and looked grimly at his men. "It never fails. There's been an... accident. Jason Sc... Matthews has been very badly hurt. Johnson, I want you to stay here, on standby. As soon as we've seen what condition Jason is in, I'll give you the word to arrest Matthews."

Johnson blinked. "In front of everyone? There'll be a riot!"

"No, there won't. If anyone has any objections, they can bring it to me personally. Just do as I say. All right?"

"Yes, sir."

"Okay. The rest of you, let's move."

~*~

"Please, tell me you've arrested my son."

"Not yet," Taylor replied in a strained voice, "but we're about to." He looked down at the injured boy. "Jason? Can you hear me, son?"

Jason responded with a faint moan, the pain rendering him helpless. Taylor switched on his radio, his jaw tight with anger. "Come in, Johnson."

"Yes, sir?"

"Arrest Matthews. Now."

"What charges, sir?"

Taylor hesitated, looking over at Catherine. She returned his stare with an equally angry one.

"He did it deliberately. This was no accident."

"Attempted murder, Johnson. Arrest him for attempted murder, aggravated assault, grievous bodily harm and anything else you can think of."

"I'm on my way now, sir."

Taylor signed off and reattached the radio to his belt. "An ambulance is on its way. Mrs Matthews...?"

"Yes, Chief Taylor?"

"Your son will never be allowed near Jason again. I promise." Catherine nodded. "Thank you."

14th Precinct....
Matthews stared idly at the papers on his desk, wondering how he would deal with his son when he got home. A straight beating was not enough, not this time. He chewed his lip thoughtfully, and smiled to himself as he recalled his son's screams as the car backed over him. At least he could guarantee the brat didn't go anywhere....

A shadow fell over his desk, and he looked up to see Lieutenant Johnson standing there, not even trying to hide the anger and disgust in his eyes. Matthews lounged back in his chair, sparing Johnson his best 'I'm-second-in- command-don't-look-at-me-like-that look.

"Can I help you, Lieutenant?"

"Yes. Please stand up, and place your guns on the desk, then turn around."

Matthews' face darkened. "What are you talking about?" Johnson drew in a deep breath, aware of the attention he was getting. "I'm placing you under arrest for attempted murder, aggravated assault and intent to cause injury. You have the right to remain silent. However, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, you have the right to..."

"I know my rights!" Matthews exploded. "What is this about? You don't have the authority to do this, Lieutenant..."

"Yes, sir, I do. I'm doing this under the authority of Chief Taylor. He ordered your arrest, sir. Here's the warrant."

Matthews eyed the piece of paper in disgust. "That doesn't mean shit. Now, who am I supposed to have tried to kill?"

"Your son, Captain. Chief Taylor is at your apartment now with a squad of men, waiting for an ambulance."

Matthews froze. "He called 911... The little bastard called 911..."

"No, sir. Your mother called Chief Taylor personally. Please turn around, sir..."

Matthews allowed himself to be turned around, too stunned to put up a fight as the handcuffs were slapped onto his wrists. His own mother had betrayed him...

"Johnson, what are you doing?"

Johnson looked around to see a crowd of police officers gathering round. None of them looked happy. He groaned inwardly.

_Why'd I get this job?_

"I'm doing my job, Jake."

"Arresting a brother?"

Johnson's jaw tightened. "You call someone who physically abuses his own son a brother? Look, if you guys want to whine about it, whine to Chief Taylor. Not me. I'm doing what I was told to do. And if any of you feel inclined, you can inquire about the Captain's son at Chicago Hope hospital. Just ask about the kid with the crushed legs. C'mon, sir, let's go." None of the officers moved or spoke as Johnson led Matthews away.

Some hours later....
"He's been arrested and charged," Taylor said as he rejoined Catherine in the waiting room of the hospital. Catherine looked remorseless for having helped in her son's arrest.

"You just make certain he stays locked up, Chief Taylor. For Jason's sake."

Taylor nodded as he sat down next to her. "I intend to, Mrs Matthews. Has there been any word on Jason?"

"No. He's still in surgery. His father made quite a mess of his legs."

"Among other things."

Catherine spared the police chief a grim look. "Yes. Among other things."

"He won't be allowed near Jason again," Taylor said, as much to himself as to Catherine. "I'll make sure of it."

Silence reigned for a while, and then Catherine spoke again. "I want to take Jason into my care but I can't. I'm too old. He'd only end up taking care of me, and I don't want that to happen."

Taylor stared at her questioningly. "What do you suggest?"

"I have connections, Chief Taylor. God knows I should have used them before, to stop Daniel from hurting Jason, but I'm afraid I was frightened of my own son. Too late now, of course... I know the Governor, Chief Taylor. I presume you do, as well?"

"Yes, Ma'am. He's the one who recommended me for my current position."

"Then we both pack a little punch. I, personally, would very much like to see Donavon and Sarah Scott released from jail."

Taylor had to smile, then. "Yes, Ma'am, so would I. I've had my men working on that, and they've uncovered some evidence that should guarantee their release."

"Good. Then we only have to focus on seeing them reunited with Jason." Taylor's smile faded quickly. "That may not be so easy, Mrs Matthews. If they are released, it will probably be on the provision that they don't go near Jason."

Catherine smiled almost pompously in response. "We'll see."

Chicago Hope....
Dr Jack MacNeil emerged into the cool waiting room, and paused for just a second to enjoy the breeze that wafted from the air ducts. It was stiflingly hot in the operating theatre, and any little breeze was welcome.

"That's Mrs Matthews, over there," a nurse told him. "She's with Police Chief Taylor."

MacNeil nodded wordlessly, then walked across the floor to where an elderly lady sat, accompanied by the Chief of Police.

"Excuse me, Mrs Matthews?"

Catherine stood up. "Is Jason all right? Where is he?" MacNeil held up his hands defensively. "He came through the operation. There's no danger that we'll lose him. If you could come with me, please?"

Both Catherine and Taylor followed him through to a small lounge, bidding them sit down.

"Jason is your grandson," MacNeil said to Catherine. "Is that right?"

"Yes. He is."

"Well, Mrs Matthews, you have one tough grandson. The damage to his legs isn't as bad as we first thought. Admittedly, it is very bad, but not crippling. He'll walk again eventually and, someday, without any need of support."

Catherine shuddered with relief. "Oh, thank God...."

"It's going to be a long road," MacNeil went on quietly, "but it's not impossible. Providing the support is there, he should do just fine."

Catherine looked sharply at Taylor. "You said you had evidence to get them out of jail?"

"Yes..."

"Well, what are you waiting for? Put it to use! And let the Governor know from me, that I've decided to collect that debt he owes me. Understand?"

Taylor grinned and stood up. "Yes, Ma'am." He nodded to MacNeil, then slipped out of the room. MacNeil eyed Catherine with a wry smile.

"That must be where Jason gets his toughness from." Catherine laughed softly. "Oh, no, Doctor. I'm afraid it isn't hereditary. Jason gets his stubbornness and toughness from someone completely different. So.... He will be all right?"

"Given time and rest. I can take you to see him now, if you'd like. He's not really awake yet, but he might know you're there."

She nodded and stood up. "Please, take me to him."

~*~

_No_ he thought. _Not yet Don't make me go back yet_ He couldn't resist, though, and was rapidly pulled back into the light, back into the pain.

~*~

"It's all right, Jason," she murmured softly. "Everything's going to be all right. Just relax..."

MacNeil watched for a moment before nodding to the nurse, who moved in to inject a dose of morphine into the drip. Jason's moans soon ceased, and he once more went limp in the bed. Catherine sighed audibly.

"Poor baby. Life has been so cruel to you...." Tears worked their way out of her eyes before she could stop them, and she brushed them away tiredly, settling back to wait with her grandson.

Governor's office....
Governor Abraham Kale was relaxing in the chair in his office when the door opened and Chief Taylor walked in. He smiled at the man in welcome.

"Sam, you came to visit a doddering old fool in his senility. How kind!"

Taylor smiled wearily. If nothing else, the Governor certainly had a good sense of humour...

"Actually, sir, I came to ask a favour."

"Oh? What favour would that be?"

"We're working to have Donovan and Sarah Scott released from jail, sir."

Kale sat forward slowly. "Scott... Scott.... Oh. The couple that snatched the Matthews boy thirteen years ago. That's not our jurisdiction, Sam."

"I know, sir, but I've been in touch with the D.A. that handled the case in California, and he's sided with me. We think we can get them out of jail, but we need extra help to put Jason back in their custody."

Kale gaped at the police chief in shock. "Are you out of your mind? They snatched a boy thirteen years ago, and you want to give the boy back to them?"

"Sir, listen to me, please. I came here almost straight from the hospital."

"Hospital?"

"Yes. Daniel Matthews tried to kill Jason. He ran the boy down with his car, and backed it over him two or three times. Jason's legs were crushed by the weight. I've had Matthews arrested, and Jason's in hospital now. His grandmother is with him, and she said she's willing to take care of him for the time being, but she can't continue to do that on a permanent basis. Especially if Jason is a long time recovering. Now, I've spoken to her, and I've spoke to everyone else with influence. You're the only one left. Please, sir. Let me put Jason back where he belongs, with Donavon and Sarah Scott. After everything Matthews has done to him, I think he deserves that much."

Kale looked grim. "It's true, then. Matthews was abusing Jason, even back then..."

"Yes, sir. We've found proof."

Kale looked to the window, drumming his fingers on the desk. After a moment, Taylor spoke again.

"Sir, do you know Catherine Matthews?"

A smile filtered onto Kale's face. "Catherine? Oh, yes, I know Catherine. So it's _that_ Matthews family that we're talking about, is it?"

"Yes, sir," Taylor replied, silently wondering what the deal was between Jason's grandmother and the state Governor. "She, uh... She asked me to pass on a message. She told me to say that she's decided to collect the debt you owe her."

Kale's eyes widened, and then he began to laugh. "That crafty old devil! All right, Sam. You've got my endorsement. Take this to the courts, and I'll back you all the way. We'll make sure Jason gets his real parents back."

Taylor smiled with relief. "Thankyou, sir."

Several days later....
Catherine had long since given up trying to cheer Jason up. Even visits from his friends, Zack, Kimberly and Trini, had failed to lift his spirits. She knew what was wrong, of course, but right then she could do little about it.

"Here's one," she said, locating a crossword puzzle in a little book. "Martials Arts. The ultimate crossword."

Jason stared bleakly at the ceiling. "Not now." Catherine sighed and put the book down. "Jason, I know you want to be back with the Scotts, but I'm afraid I cant do anything about it! Please, don't give up on me, honey."

Jason looked back at her. "I'm sorry. I am... It's just, I miss them so bad... If Mum was here, she sit up on the bed with me, and just hold me... and Dad would, too. I miss that, Grandma. I want them back!"

His voice cracked, and he began to cry. Catherine had to fight to keep control of her own emotions. Standing up, she leaned over and gently put her arms around the fragile boy.

"It's all right, sweetheart. Go ahead and cry." Silently, Catherine hated herself for not telling Jason what she and certain others were trying to do, but it would have been so much worse to tell him, only to have their efforts come to nought. Instead, she just held him, as he had said Sarah used to do, and hope that they didn't fail.

California State Penitentiary....
Donavon Scott was more than a little surprised to be brought out for an interview with someone and to find it was the D.A. who had convinced the judge to send him and his wife to jail. He regarded the man with a grim look.

"Mr Russell. What a surprise."

Alan Russell nodded. "I guess it is. You probably didn't expect to see me again..."

"No, not for six years."

"I'll get straight to the point, Scott. I've been contacted by Chicago's Chief of Police. They've uncovered some conclusive evidence that guarantees both yours and your wife's release from prison."

Donavon stiffened for a moment, then leaned forward slowly. "You're serious?"

"Yes. Theres also a move afoot to have Jason officially and legally placed in your custody."

Donavon's hands clenched into fists. "He's doing it again, isn't he? That bastard is abusing Jason..."

Russell hesitated, then spoke quietly. "Technically I shouldnt tell you this, but you'd probably find out anyway. Some things have happened, Scott. Daniel Matthews has been arrested and charged..."

"What with?" Donavon asked in a hoarse whisper. "Attempted murder."

"Oh, Christ..."

"Right now, Jason is in Chicago Hope hospital. He... I'm afraid he has been badly hurt. Apparently Matthews ran him down with his car..."

Donavon sat frozen with anger. "Who's with Jason now?" he asked softly, struggling to maintain a reasonable level of calm.

"His grandmother, Catherine Matthews. Apparently Matthews left Jason alone in their apartment and he managed to drag himself as far as the phone. He called his grandmother, she went to the apartment, and called the chief of police, not 911. Probably just as well. Matthews would have been likely to overhear a 911 call, and most likely would have cancelled it."

"How badly was Jason hurt?"

"I couldn't say, not for certain. Those details weren't made known to me."

Donavon looked away, to the tabletop. "This is what Sarah and I were trying to avoid when we took Jason to begin with."

"I understand.... now. We're all working to have it rectified. With luck, you'll be out of this place within a month...." He paused, then added softly, "And back with your son."

Donavon looked at him, startled. Russell offered Donavon a faint smile as he stood up. "It's the very least I can do. Excuse me..." Donavon watched him go with a feeling of renewed hope, then turned and allowed himself to be led back to his cell.

A month later....
"No. I don't want to do it."

Jack MacNeil withheld a groan at Jason's continued, stubborn refusal to agree to the physiotherapy. The boy had a stubborn streak in him a mile wide, and it was starting to become annoying as hell.

"If you don't do it, you won't walk," MacNeil persisted. Jason stared defiantly at him from the wheelchair, and MacNeil threw his hands up in frustration. "Why are you being so stubborn? Do you really want to be in that chair for the rest of your life? Do you?"

Jason looked uncomfortable. "No...."

"Then what is it?"

The teen bit down on his lower lip. "It hurts so bad. I don't like it hurting."

MacNeil sighed and went over to crouch down in front of Jason. "No one likes pain, Jason. Sometimes, though, we just have to grit our teeth and get on with things, no matter how much it hurts."

"I could handle that," Jason argued. "But is it always going to be like this? Will it always hurt like this? Because if it is, I don't think I can cope with that."

MacNeil sighed softly, starting to understand the boy's fear. "I wish I could tell you for certain, one way or the other. The truth is, I can't say for sure. Maybe it will... Maybe it won't. But you won't know if you don't try."

"I'm scared," Jason whispered.

"I understand. Don't let being afraid rule you. You've come this far. Don't cave now."

Jason forced back his tears. "Okay," he conceded finally.

MacNeil nodded and stood up. "Good. Let's see what we can do, then."

~*~

Jason smiled tearfully. "Hey, no pain, no gain. Right?"

"Right," she murmured, stroking his forehead lightly. "You keep up like you did today, Jason, and you'll be back on your feet in no time. I'm sure of it."

He stared up at the white-washed ceiling, then spoke in a voice that trembled just a little. "Wheelchair... Then leg braces and crutches... Then a walking stick. I may not get past the walking stick, Grandma. I heard them talking. They said I might always need a walking stick."

Catherine squeezed his hand reassuringly. "Be brave, sweetheart. Be brave and strong, and I'm sure that one day, you'll walk on your own again."

Tears filled Jason's eyes and overflowed down his cheeks. "One day... One day I'll walk. One day it might stop hurting. One day... Why can't it be tomorrow? Or next week? Or even next month? Why does it always have to be one day? I don't want to do this, Grandma. I don't want to...."

Catherine felt her heart break in response to her grandson's physical and emotional pain, but in the end all she could do was wait and hope that they didn't fail in what they were trying to do.

~*~

Now, once all the paperwork was finished, Donavon and Sarah would be on the first plane Chicago, to be reunited with Jason. Taylor leaned back in his chair, feeling immensely pleased with himself. Things couldn't have worked out better if they'd tried.

He was about to call the hospital to let Catherine know they'd succeeded, when there was a knock on his door and a group of five detectives walked in. Taylor sat up, instantly on guard. These five in particular, he knew, were loyal to Matthews. No doubt they wanted an explanation....

"Sir...." one detective started to say.

Taylor cut him off. "Let me guess, Davis. You want to know on what grounds I had Matthews arrested."

Davis looked uncomfortable, but determined. "Yes, sir. I mean, he was a brother...."

Taylor looked sceptical. "It's taken you boys a long time to get yourselves in gear. He was arrested over a month ago."

"We know," Davis said. "We... We just want to know why."

Taylor stifled a groan. "Are you five deaf, or just stupid? You know what that sonofabitch did to his own son!"

"It could have been an accident..." one of them protested weakly.

Taylor's face clouded over with anger. "When someone runs their car three times over their own child, and doesn't hear the screaming, then it's no accident. You either accept that, or... I don't know. Besides, if it was an accident, then why the hell did Matthews drag Jason all the way from the car park to the apartment and not call for an ambulance? Anyway, before you start considering insubordination, think about this. There is a boy in hospital right now who was very nearly crippled for life. As it is, he's going to be in a wheelchair for at least another three months before he can start walking again, and even then it'll be with leg braces. And if you still have doubts, take a look at these."

Taylor pulled open his desk drawer and took out a small handful of photos, which he slid across the tabletop. Davis picked up the top one, and turned a light shade of green. "What is this...?"

"Photographic evidence, gentlemen. That one you're looking at now is a photo that was taken of Jason's legs before doctors operated. Not a pretty sight, is it?"

Davis placed the photo carefully back on the desk, not showing it to his colleagues. "I'm sorry, sir. I can't believe Captain Matthews is capable of doing that."

"Really? Well, then, you're in minority," Taylor snapped. "I don't have time to argue this out now. Get back to work, all of you."

The five men turned and shuffled out of the office, disgruntled. Taylor watched them go in disgust and disbelief before finally refocusing on his original intentions, and making the call to the hospital, to tell Catherine Matthews that Donavon and Sarah Scott were on their way.

~*~

Donavon ignored the offered hand and threw his arms around the bigger man in a brotherly hug. "Thank you, Sam. Well never be able to pay you back..."

Sam shook his head. "Don't expect you to. Getting you both out of prison was enough of a reward for me. C'mon, lets get you to the hospital."

"How is Jason?" Sarah asked anxiously. "No one seems to be able to tell us anything."

Taylor shook his head, waiting until they were in the waiting car before speaking. "He's doing all right, for what he's gone through. A month in hospital hasn't done much for his esteem, either. Listen, folks, he doesn't know you're coming. We kept it a secret from him just in case things didn't work out. It's going to be a real surprise for him."

"What about his grandmother?" Sarah asked in concern. "What does she think about this...?"

Taylor smiled wryly. "She was the one who got the Governor on our side. We would have been able to get you both out of jail, but he was the one who had the added kick to reunite you with Jason. Ah.... You don't know how badly Jason was hurt, do you?"

Donavon and Sarah glanced at one another, and then Donavon shook his head. "No. We don't. Tell us the news straight, Sam. We need to know."

"Yes, you do. You know Jason was run down by Matthews, right?"

"Yes."

"What you probably don't know is that Matthews ran over him three times. He crushed Jason's legs. The kid was in traction for a month, right up until just last week."

Donavon groaned softly. "Oh god... That bastard! Sam, is he going to...?"

"He'll walk again," Taylor told them, "but it's going to be a long time in coming. He's already had four operations on his legs, and we know he needs at least another two. Possibly more. It's pretty serious, folks. I think it's making it worse that Jason doesn't seem to have much stamina anymore. He's just about given up trying. It's why it's so important that we get you back together with him. I think it might turn him right around to have his mum and dad back."

Donavon and Sarah exchanged glances and grasped each others hands tightly, waiting in anxious silence to be reunited with Jason.

~*~

Jason stared at her dully. "Why?"

She sighed in frustration. "Jason, we've already been over this! Why are you giving up so easily?"

Jason looked down at his legs unenthusiastically. "I just don't want to."

The physiotherapist drew Catherine aside. "There's not much point doing anything at all with him when he won't put any effort into it himself. I think it'd be best to take him back to his room and get hold of a shrink to talk with him."

Catherine sighed. "All right," she conceded. "I..." She looked around as the door opened and Chief Taylor looked in, catching her eye and signalling to her anxiously. A faint smile flickered over her lips, and she glanced back at the physiotherapist. "Would you excuse me for just one moment? I'll be right back..."

Sparing a concerned look in Jason's direction, she hurried from the room.

~*~

Catherine's face lit up with a broad smile. "You have no idea how glad I am to meet you. And I am so sorry for everything you've been through..."

Sarah took the older woman's hand in her own. "From what Sam has told us, we have a lot to thank you for. You made it possible for us to get Jason back."

Catherine smiled sadly. "I would have loved to take him in, but it's just not possible. He belongs with you, and I doubt he would ever recover properly with anyone else."

Donavon looked past her to the door of the gym. "Is he...?"

Catherine nodded. "Yes. Your arrival was good timing. I'm afraid Jason isn't doing too well emotionally right now." She stepped towards the door, motioning for them to follow. "Come, please..."

~*~

Jason was still staring at the floor when he got the inexplicable sensation of being watched. Someone, he sensed, was standing right behind him. It was an intimidating feeling, and he was about to turn around and tell the offending person to take a hike when a hand, strong but gentle, came down on the top of his head. He froze, his heart pounding hard in his chest. Only one person had ever touched him like that, on the top of the head. He would only have allowed one person to do it...

He shut his eyes tightly, not wanting to have the illusion shattered. It couldn't possibly be who he wanted it to be. That person had been long since removed from his reach....

The hand moved from his head to his shoulder, and he heard footsteps coming around to the front of the wheelchair. A second hand came around to lightly touch his cheek, and smooth back a rogue lock of hair.

Tears built up in Jasons closed eyes. _Why are you doing this to me?_ he asked in distress of whoever the person was. Then, the person spoke.

"Open your eyes, Jason."

Jason all but stopped breathing. The voice... That voice... His eyes opened, and he found himself looking into the face of the man who had raised him.

Donavon smiled tearfully at the boy. "Hello, son."