Nowhere to Run (12 page)

***

"And because of Joe's statement, Brandon's been booked for the murder of Frost and for hijacking the watches," Fenton Hardy said as Sue was adjusting the pillow behind Biker's head.

Biker shifted on the hospital bed. "Too bad," he said. He was startled by the stunned looks Frank and Joe gave him. "For all his faults, I kind of liked the kid. He was good for a few laughs around the office."

"How long are you going to be in here?" Mort Sims asked. He leaned against the door, crumpled hat in hand.

"Doc says about a week," Biker replied.

"Well," Mort Sims said as he put on his hat, "this is one time I'm glad I didn't bring back my man." He opened the door. "See you around, Fenton." Then he was gone.

"That guy has some nerve," Frank said.

"It's the closest you'll get to an apology," Fenton said. He faced Frank and Joe. "And you two — "

"Dad, I'm sorry if I caused you any trouble," Frank said.

"Yeah, I know I said some things that — " Joe began.

"Forget it," Fenton interrupted. "If I had to lose a case, I'm glad I lost it to my sons." He headed for the door. "I'm off to the airport to pick up your mother and Aunt Gertrude. You two be home in time for supper."

"As long as it's anything but frozen fish sticks," Joe said with a grin.

Fenton shook his head and left the room.

"You're going back to Queens after you get out?" Frank asked Biker.

"Right." Biker grinned. "The D.A. is making a motion tomorrow to drop all charges. Then I'll be returning to DalTime."

"Why?" asked Callie. "Dalton caused all your problems.'

"Brandon Dalton caused all my problems," Biker replied. "Brandon even talked his dad into hiring Sims."

"Why?" asked Callie.

"Because Brandon figured Biker wouldn't make it back to Queens," Joe said.

"Brandon even had himself beaten up," Frank added. "And then he killed Frost to shut his mouth about the watches and the beating."

"But why are you going back to DalTime?" Callie asked.

Biker looked at Sue. "I like Mr. Dalton. He's going to need all the support Sue and I can give him."

"Besides," Sue added, "we need our jobs if we're going to get married. Speaking of which, we'll have to set a new date. But you guys are definitely invited to the wedding."

"You've got it," Joe said with a grin. "Just do me a favor."

"Name it." Biker grinned back at him.

"When we turn up for the wedding — no adventures. Okay?"

Biker nodded solemnly. "You have my word. My wedding will be as quiet as my homecoming."

Callie, Frank, and Sue cracked up. But Joe just shook his head gloomily.

"That's what I'm afraid of," he said.

The End.