DO TAKE THIS LITERALLY I

The answers to the clues below, read downward, will give a surprise answer.

1. Beginning of the year
2. Middle of the road
3. Last in line
4. Core of the matter
5. Canadian capital
6. Head of house
7. Energy giant
8. Running start
9. Happy ending

HINT:
The title is a clue.

Answers:

1.  T
2.  R
3.  E
4.  A
5.  C
6.  H
7.  E
8.  R
9.  Y 

(TREACHERY)