

Into the Night
Part 1

By: Mae Nunnally

Copyright 2016 Mae Nunnally

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Smashwords Edition

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Table of Contents

#Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Part 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Part 3

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Part 4

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Epilogue

About the Author

Author's Note

Prologue

It was late and the sun was going down, it was nights like tonight that Meredith wished she had the money to fix her old truck. She turned away from the window and set to work on the next client's account. It was then that she realized that she needed a change in her life. She no longer enjoyed her job, she sat back in the big leather chair and just stared at the computer screen in front of her.

It wasn't until the alarm on her cell went off that Meredith was pulled from her thoughts, it was time to head home. She turned and looked out the window, the sun had set long ago, she sighed, put her coat on and picked up her purse from the floor.

She buttoned up her coat and wrapped her scarf around and up over the bottom half of her face before stepping out into the night. She shut and locked the door to Account Your Blessings or AYB to anyone that worked there and headed home.

Being so cold out and that it had started to snow Mere decided to take a short cut through a back alley. She walked along, her mind busy with everything that was running thru it, she didn't notice the two men by the dumpster. Before she could react they jumped her and had her on the ground. She just froze with fear for a few until her need to survive kicked in. She started kicking, punching, scratching and screaming at the top of her lungs for help. As soon as the first scream left her mouth the bigger of the two men hit her, hard, causing her vision to blur. The other man had already undone her coat and ripped open her blouse. He started to remove her jeans and she screamed out NO! The big man covered her mouth and said, "Shut up, bitch. Just lay there like the whore that you are and take it."

She didn't know if she would live thru this but she realized fighting them was pointless. There was nothing left to do but lay there, giving up soon she felt a tear slide down her cheek to her ear. She left her mind wonder to a happy place, she took herself back to the last time she was at grandfather's apple orchard and tried to ignore what was happening her.

It was a low deep growl that had her opening her eyes. At first all she saw was a blur and the two men being knocked down like bowling pins. Then she saw a fast-moving shadow attacking the two men. One was flung half way down the alley the other against the wall of the nearby building. As far as she could tell both men were dead. The next thing she knew she heard sirens. Her rescuer stepped to her side placed her purse under her head and covered her with something warm that smelled of Christmas. She watched him stand up, he then said.

"Don't move, help is on the way. I'll be nearby until they get here, but please don't mention me."

Then he just walked away and disappeared into the night.

Chapter 1

( Two Years Later )

It would be just Mere's luck that what she wanted would be on the top shelf. Not just the top shelf but apparently someone had bought the first one and there was no way in hell that she was going to reach the next one back.

Before she heard the person speak, the scent of Christmas surrounded her, taking her back to a very bad time. She would never forget that smell for as long as she lived. The pleasant aromas of cinnamon, vanilla and pine mixed with a muskiness. It took the second time of the deep male voice asking, "can I help you get something, ma'am?" She looked up and looked into the palest blue eyes. She had only seen eyes like that one other time and the longer she looked into those eyes the tingle that started coursing thru her body got stronger. She wasn't afraid of him, it was more of a curious feeling, a feeling that he was the one in that alley. She looked away and swallowed trying to gather herself before she did something stupid.

She turned toward the cart in front of her and grabbed hold, but before she could brace herself she felt herself falling. The scream was caught in her throat, no sound left her lips as she left go of the cart. She hated herself even though she knew she should hate the men that had attacked her in that alley. Since that day she had moved, quit her job and barely left her home, but there was only so long one could go without food.

When the hardness of the grocery store floor didn't meet her body she opened her eyes and then realized that she was wrapped in a pair of warm, strong arms. "I'm sorry," was the only thing she could manage to say.

Carmine stood legs wide holding them both up. He wanted to kick himself, he should have kept his distance, but after two years of watching her from afar, it had taken its toll on him. He watched as she had made the short move from York to the outlining village of Pleasureville. He has spent many nights outside her home and watched throughout the night. He had wanted to take her with him that night two years ago, but he knew she needed medical help that only the hospital could have given her, so he left her laying in that alley. He did stay until the ambulance got there and then quickly made his exit.

He looked into her eyes now and saw nothing, her eyes were void and staring up at him. Even though he couldn't read anything in her eyes he could feel and hear her heart beat. It had picked up for a few moments after she opened her eyes and looked at him again just like it did before she turned away from him. Somehow she knew but didn't know just who he was. He took a step back from her but held onto her shoulders making sure she was steady on her feet before letting her go. "Are you alright, ma'am?" He stayed where he was just in case she fainted again. He couldn't help but wonder what caused it. Was it because of him? Did she have a flash back to that night?

She couldn't believe she just had an attack just now. She wasn't afraid of this man, but yet he had this affect on her. She pasted a small smile on her face and looked up at him again. "Yes, thank you, Sir. And to answer your question from before I'm wanting the granola cereal on the top shelf." Mere watched as the man step to the right and retrieve the box of cereal.

When he handed it to her, she thanked him said good bye and continued with her shopping. Even though he wasn't behind her, and she had checked several times, it still felt like he was watching her.

It wasn't until she had her groceries loaded in her truck and was on her way home that the feeling of being watched left her and she could breathe easy. She couldn't help the smile that seemed to linger on her face. Just who was that man? Could there be more than one man that smelled like that. She should have got his name. She shrugged a shoulder, dropping it for now. If they were meant to be together, they would be brought together again.

It was days later, Carmine was on duty when a call came in, there was a 911 call for a woman. When he heard the address he felt his heartbeat pick up, it was Meredith's address. Tossing the key to his brother and partner they got up from the table and ran to the rig. Once inside Owen said one word, "Meredith?" Carmine replied, "Yep."

The only other person that knew about that night in the alley was Owen. Carmine and Owen had always been close and when Owen joined the Paramedics of York that bond between them became stronger. It also brought a relief to Carmine, having a partner that he didn't have to be so careful around. They both knew what they were and what they could do, they also knew that there were still a lot of people out there that didn't accept them.

As they drove toward Meredith's they were updated on her condition. As they were pulling into her driveway they were told that she was in the barn past the house. Owen pulled up outside the barn and was about to step out of the rig, when Carmine stopped him. "There's blood, I'll go in first." He looked at his brother and waited until Owen nodded. Carmine had five years on his brother more time to teach himself to ignore the scent of blood. He had no doubt that Owen would be fine but this was Meredith.

Carmine stepped into the barn and saw her propped up again the back stall. "Paramedics, we're here to help." He saw her head snap up and then that beautiful smile brighten her face. He heard her answer, "I'm back here." As Carmine walked closer he saw the source of the blood, her leg wrapped in something, the blood was seeping thru and then he notice she was shirtless. He took his jacket off and covered her with it just before he heard his brother coming thru the barn door.

Carmine didn't look at his brother but waited until he came to a stop with the gurney. He didn't want to remove what Meredith had already done, so he just wrapped fresh gauze around her leg. "We need to get an IV started. Are you allergic to anything ma'am?"

"I haven't been allergic to anything yet, but I'm good, lets just get to the hospital." She closed her eyes and concentrated on keeping calm.

Owen got to work setting up the IV as Carmine finished up stabilizing her leg for transport. Once they were ready to move her he look to Owen. "All set?" Owen nodded and they moved her to the gurney waiting near by.

Carmine adjusted his jacket over her and then fastened the strap around her waist and thighs. Once inside the ambulance Owen climbed in the front. Carmine pulled a blanket out of one the cabinets and spread it over top Meredith.

He could hear her heart beat, it was slow and steady same as her breathing, but she hadn't said anything in awhile. He knew he had to keep her talking. "Ma'am, can you tell me your name?"

"Meredith."

"Meredith who?" He fired back.

"Meredith Ann Frusciante," she replied still with her eyes closed.

"Okay Meredith, my name is Carmine. You are going to get tired of me asking these question but please keep answering them."

"Okay."

"What's my name, Meredith?"

"Carmine." She said.

"Good. Now tell me what year is it?"

"2012"

"What's your name again?" Carmine asked and the questions continued. He was glad that they were only about twenty minutes away from the hospital.

Meredith kept her eyes closed, it helped to stay calm if she couldn't see anything. She knew he was just doing his job with the 101 questions. The more he talked the more sure she became that it was him that had saved her in the alley. She wanted to ask, but the possibility of looking like a fool if it wasn't him had her biting her tongue. His voice and his aroma made it hard to stay awake, but somehow she managed.

Before she knew it they were at the hospital and her two rescuers were unloading her from the back and were rolling her thru the ER doors.

It seamed like hours before she was finally rolled into a room. When she look at the clock she realized it really hadn't been hours, but just a few minutes. The clock read ten of noon. She was just looking down at her leg when someone entered her room. She was hoping for some peace and quiet for a while.

She looked up as the person walked over to her. It was an older gentleman and with graying hair and a slight smile on his face. "Hello." Meredith said just wanting to get this over with.

"Hello Miss. Frusciante, I'm Dr. Reid. I operated and put your leg back together. You have a plate on each side of the bone with screws holding it all together. If all goes well you should be good as new in seven to eight weeks. I would like for you to stay overnight at least, as long as your tests come back good in the morning you'll be free to return home. In a few hours Shirley will be in to help you adjust your crutches. You will need to stay off your leg completely until I say other wise. I will set up a follow appointment for two weeks. Now do you have any questions?"

Meredith knew better than to interrupt a doctor. "Just a few doctor. You are only keeping me overnight not longer"

"Yes, unless something wrong shows up on your tests in the morning."

Meredith closed her eyes she could take one night here. "Where are my things, I need my phone?"

"I'll ask at the nurses station and have your things brought to you."

"Thank you. Just one more question, am I allowed to eat?"

"Of course, although I'd wait another hour to let the anesthesia to completely clear from your system. Some people tend to get sick if they eat too soon."

"Thank you, doctor, you are very kind."

"Not a problem, Miss. Frusciante. I'll see you in the morning."

Meredith shook his out stretched hand and then watched him leave.

She must have dozed off because the next thing she knew someone was calling her name and lightly shaking her. Without opening her eyes she asked. "What do you want? If you need to draw blood go ahead."

A small soft voice answered her, "No, no, Miss Frusciante. I'm Shirley, I'm here to help you adjust your crutches and show you the best way to get in and out of bed and the safest way to sit and stand up as well as using the bathroom."

Meredith now looked over at the woman, short, round and white-haired. She couldn't help but smile. "Okay, but only if you drop the Miss. Frusciante and call me Meredith."

"As you wish. Now lets get you out of that bed."

They were on their third attempt at having Meredith stand when Carmine walked in. "Need help Shirley?"

"Carmine! Always lending a helping hand. If you wouldn't mind, Meredith here doesn't seam to be too good at balancing on one leg and we need to get the crutches adjusted."

Meredith felt the warmth build and was about to collapse once again when she felt a strong warm arm wrap around her waist. She felt his breath against her ear as he whispered, "lean on me, I've gotcha."

With Carmine's help they were able to finish adjusting the crutches in just a few minutes.

"Good now that, that's done I need to go fetch a few items. Carmine would you mind staying a few minutes with Meredith until I return."

"No problem, Shirley, take your time." Shirley had no sooner turn around and he picked Meredith up into his arms and placed her back in bed.

Meredith looked up at the man that had come to her rescue four times now. "Just what are you doing here."

He tucked her hair behind her ear before answering. "I've made it a habit to check on people, make sure they made it thru surgery." It wasn't a complete lie he did check up on people, just never in person. Meredith was the only one, he had to see that she was still alive.

Meredith took a minute to think and smiled. "Well thank you A-gain." She didn't want to press things too far, if he didn't remember two years ago or if he wasn't the one she didn't want to go into it.

"Its what I do, Ma'am." There was something there between them, the fire, the heat, the sparks that he was sure would fly if he kissed her.

Shirley returned minutes later with some items and shooed Carmine away. She had also brought her personal items that she had requested.

Meredith watch him walk away for the second time and with him went the warmth. She looked up and smiled at Shirley. Before she could say anything Shirley said, "He's a good man that one. Always checks up on the people he and Owen bring in here, but you are the first he's actually checked up on face to face. He usually just stops at the counter and asks. You must mean something to him." Meredith felt the blush spread over her cheeks. She was about to say something when Shirley patted her hand and said, "No worries, hun, your secret is save with me, but don't wait too long a man that looks that good and with that kind of heart he won't be free for long. I'd snatch him up if I didn't already have Donnie."

Shirley and Meredith worked together for the next hour making sure Meredith was steady on her crutches and could get up and down on her own, especially in the bathroom.

Hours later after Meredith had rest some, she gave Veronica and Sheldon a call and filled them in on what happen. She didn't even have to ask, Sheldon volunteered to take care of the horses and Veronica said she'd get her home in the morning. She asked them both if they would come visit. They had all been friends for years. They promised to come visit and told her not to worry about a thing.

When Sheldon stopped by later he let her know that when he went to take care of the horses it appeared that they had just been fed and that there were three bails of hay down from the loft stacked neatly by the ladder. Right away her thoughts went to Carmine. She thanked Sheldon and said that it was probably Mack from Damn Yankee. That he sometimes came over to make sure she was alright and if there any heavy lifting needing done.

When Veronica walked in she was smiling from ear to ear and even started giggling. She pulled a chair close to the bed and whispered, "I brought you something." She then looked around making sure no one else was in the room and then pull out a bag from under her jacket. "I brought you a Midnight Moonshine Thickburger. Thought you might need a little pick me up." She handed over the bag and Meredith couldn't help but laugh when she opened the bag. Sure enough there sat a MMT and a large order of fries. Meredith looked up and Veronica was holding a bottle of RC Cola. "Can't have a thickburger without a RC Cola." Meredith grabbed the bottle and cracked it open and took a long drink and ended it with a very loud burp. They both broke into girlish giggles so loud that a nurse stepped in to see what was going on. She just smiled, waved and walked back out. Veronica and Meredith broke out in laughter again.

Carmine was just finishing up feeding Meredith's horses when he heard someone approaching. He quickly leaped up into the loft and hid. He moved a bail of hay aside far enough to see between them and watched at a older man walked into the barn. The man made his way to each of the horses patted and pet each of them. The man walk back to front and into the room off to the right, he returned with a bag of something only to stop by the door and put whatever was in the bag in the bowl by the door. Seconds later a very pregnant border collie came from the side room.

Minutes later, he heard the man call out, "Don't worry, your momma will be back soon," and he walked back out of the barn shutting the door. Carmine listen as an engine started up and then faded away as the vehicle left.

Carmine tossed down a couple bails down before jumping down himself. He stacked them next to ladder. When he turned around the border collie stood wagging her tail at him. He knelt down on one knee and scratched her on the head. He could her all the little hearts beating inside her belly. He stopped and listen closer and heard one that was different. He listened for a little while longer and was glad when the heartbeat picked up to match the others. He pet the collie some and said, "You've got a sick one in your tummy momma, I hope you deliver soon or you are probably going to loose one of your babies." He stood before adding, "Rest momma and I'll be back later and check on you."

He had just stepped out of the barn when he heard another vehicle slow and turn into Meredith drive. He ran and hid himself behind the barn. He didn't have to wait long before a full size truck pulled up and a very large black man got out. He didn't have to seen the man face. He knew it was Sheldon. Carmine started walking toward the front of barn and yelled, "What brings you out here?"

Sheldon turned toward the familiar voice. "Carmine. Meredith's a good friend, I came to check on the animals. I'm gonna guess that you've already done that and that you and Owen were on duty this morning and got the called."

"Yea, it was bad, Meredith's leg was broken badly. I'm guessing she fell off the ladder." He wasn't great friends with Sheldon, but they were friends. It was good to know that Meredith had Sheldon, now maybe he wouldn't have to worry so much. He also didn't have to worry about him hitting on Meredith while she was injured. Sheldon didn't swing that way.

"I just came here to take care of Star, Blaize and Mitzy before heading into see Meredith."

"I took care of the horses, didn't know about the dog until this older guy came by about an hour ago." He was digging for info and he knew he shouldn't, but he could help it now that Meredith was injured his protective instincts were stronger.

"No idea who that could have been, but if I know Meredith he's trustworthy or she would have moved. She hasn't been the same in quite awhile. She moved out here about two years ago and shut everyone out but Veronica and myself and maybe whoever this guy was. I'll ask Mere when I go in an visit her."

Sheldon walked back to his truck and opened the door, but before he got in Carmine said, "I'd appreciate it if he didn't mention I was here. The older guy didn't even know I was here."

Sheldon nodded and said, "No problem, Carmine." He stared at Carmine a moment longer before adding, "Don't break her heart again, or this time I will hunt you down." And with that he climbed in his truck and left.

Carmine stood there and watched Sheldon and his truck disappear down the drive. Loyalty was rare to find in people. He couldn't help but admire that in Sheldon. He knew he meant what he said. Sheldon wasn't much different from himself, he too hid the fact that he was something other than human.

Chapter 2

Meredith was awaken early the next morning by a nurse. "Miss. Frusciante, I need to draw blood. Dr. Reid will be in to see you shortly and as long as things go well you'll be able to go home. You also have a visitor, shall I send them in?"

Meredith blinked the sleep from her eyes, and held out her arm. "Take what you need and yes please send my visitor in."

Thirty minutes later and Sheldon came walking thru the door. Meredith could help but think the same thing that always ran thru her mind when she saw Sheldon, 'it was a damn shame he preferred guys over girls.' He took a seat in the chair on her left side. It was a wonder the chair could hold up so much man, she found herself thinking and giggled.

Sheldon was happy to see that Meredith in such good spirits. "Should I even ask what you are so giddy about?" He leaned forward and took her hand in his as he looked into her chocolate brown eyes.

"Just thinking how small that chair looks with your big ass in it." She giggled again and smiled. Sheldon has always been there for her, you couldn't ask for a better friend. A male friend she didn't have to worry about hitting on her. He really is a great man.

Sheldon stood up and twisted to look at his ass then turn around and looked over his shoulder at her and asked, "Does this chair make my ass look big?"

Mere lost it and the giggles turned into full on laughter. Sheldon turned back around and gathered her into a loving hug.

It was then that Dr. Reid entered the room. He cleared his throat and said, "I can come back if I'm interrupting."

Sheldon left Meredith go and sat back down before answering the doctor. "Not at all doc, was just sharing the love, its a beautiful day."

Dr. Reid nodded his agreement and turned his attention to Meredith. Miss. Frusciante your test are back and everything looks good. A nurse will be in with your discharge papers. I assume your friend is here to take you home?"

Meredith looked over at Sheldon. Sheldon smiled at Meredith and said, "Yes I am, Ronnie couldn't make it this morning, something came up."

Meredith looked up at Dr. Reid and said, "apparently so, thank you doctor."

Before leaving Dr. Reid said that she could pick up an appointment card at the nurses desk for her follow up in two weeks.

When the nurse came in with the discharge papers Sheldon asked if there a set of scrubs or something that Meredith could change into. She left and return a few minutes later with a set of light pink scrubs and handed them to Meredith. "Don't worry about returning them. Also there is a wheelchair available for you, just leave down stairs."

After the nurse left Sheldon helped Meredith dress. He went and retrieve the wheelchair from the nurses station and helped her into it. He placed the bag of her things in her lap as well as her crutches and headed out. They stopped at the nurses station to drop off the discharge papers and to obtain the appointment card. As they went to get on the elevator an orderly was inside and offered his service. Sheldon collected the crutches and Meredith's bag as the orderly began to push the wheelchair.

Sheldon left the orderly with Meredith as he went to collect his truck from the parking lot. When he returned he pick Meredith up into his arms and carried her to his truck. She would have protested, but she really didn't have a choice. Sheldon was gonna have to pick her up anyway to help her in the truck. Sheldon's truck was big just the man that owned it. It sat a good two feet off the ground. After making sure Meredith was secure in the truck Sheldon walked back to the orderly, shook his hand and thanked him for his help. As he shook the young man's hand he looked him in the eyes as he slipped him a hundred and told him to have a wonderful day. The young man just pocketed the money and walked back into the hospital.

Sheldon made his way around to the driver's side and climbed up in. He looked over at Meredith, "Ready?"

She looked back at him with a smile, "Ready."

The drive to Meredith's place done so pretty much in silence. Half way there Meredith fell asleep. When Sheldon turned onto Meredith's drive he slowed to a little more than a crawl so not to wake Meredith or jar her leg too much.

He left her sleep as he climbed out and carried everything inside. When he returned he stood and listened. Without looking he said after making sure Meredith was still asleep, "She's asleep, I'm just going to carry her inside to her couch." He waited a while longer, but got no reply, he really didn't need one, he didn't care how Carmine felt about Meredith, he would protect her especially with her injured again.

Slowly he opened the truck door and unbuckled her seat belt and proceeded to cradle her in his arms. He shut the softly so not to wake Meredith then slowly carried her inside. She stirred slightly when his boot heals hit the wooden porch. He stopped and spoke to her softly easing her back to slumber. A few minutes later he continued inside sticking to the carpeted areas as much as possible. When he got to the couch he laid her slowly down on it. He placed her hands on top her stomach and then covered her up with the blanket from a nearby chair and lightly kissed her forehead.

Before leaving he made sure that the crutches were within reach, her bag of items sat on the coffee table and he cleared a path to the bathroom which included rolling up some throw rugs. The last thing he did was to write a brief note letting Meredith know that he would check up on her sometime tomorrow and left the note under her phone on the coffee table.

Sheldon stepped out onto the porch pulling the door shut behind him. He didn't see him, but heard him say, "Thanks." Sheldon climbed back into his truck and left.

Carmine sat and watched Sheldon leave, he had a feeling that he'd be seeing a lot more of Sheldon, at least until Meredith's leg healed. He knew he really wasn't needed here, but staying away had become harder and harder over the last year. Something kept drawing him back. He sat now with just a wall and a few feet separating them. He sat and listened to the steady beat of her heart. Seconds turned into minutes into hours, he was just about to head home when he heard her frantic words, 'no, don't go, please don't go, no, no, no, nooooooooo,' he knew she was dreaming of that night in the alley. He had heard those same words as he walked away from her. He couldn't be caught there in the state that he was in, it was all he could do to not to kill the two men, but walking away from Meredith was even harder.

He stood and looked in thru the window and watched wanting to be inside holding her. He waited until her heart beat slowed and returned to its normal rhythm before turning and walked away. He knew the best thing for her was rest and he could see that she was getting that.

Carmine hadn't been back to Meredith's since she returned home. Hearing her nightmare had place a vice around his heart and each day away from her.

It was the being of Owen and his shift when the Dale, the fire chief, walked into the locker room. "Good morning, Owen." He patted him on the shoulder before walking over to Carmine. "Good morning, Carmine. This came in the mail for you." He handed Carmine a white envelope before adding, "I assume its one of your patients." He chuckled as he walked away. Stopping at the door Dale turned back around and said, "Son, you really should think about becoming a doctor, you'd make a great one," and with that he walked out shutting the door behind him.

Carmine read the front of the envelope, all that was wrote there was his first name and the fire station's address, turning it over he saw that it was sealed with a heart sticker. He gently lifted the flap so not to tear the heart sticker he removed the paper inside and unfolded it and read:

Dear Carmine,

I just wanted to thank you for taking such good care of me and for not treating me like a child on the ride into the hospital. I don't know how it happened, probably an oversight by the hospital staff, but I believe I have something of yours. Being that my leg is broken and my truck is a stick shift I won't be able to bring it to you for at least another seven weeks. However, if you find that you have time to stop by, please feel free to stop in and collect it. Sorry I'm being so vague, but I don't know if you could get into any trouble not having this with you and just encase someone else happens to read this I don't want them knowing. No worries if you can come by for a while, I know how busy being a paramedic can be, it will be here safe and sound until you can either stop by or I'm able to drive into town. I owe you one, or is it two now. Hugs, Meredith. P.S. Thank your partner for me too I seam to forget his name.

Carmine folded the piece of paper back up and placed it neatly back into the envelope before holding it in half and putting it in his front pants pocket. Before he could say anything Owen asked, "who's that from?"

Carmine turn around to face his brother, "that was from Meredith thanking us for coming to her rescue last week. She can't remember your name, but she want me to make sure you got the message."

"There's more though isn't there?" Owen asked with concern in his eyes.

"Yea, remember how the hospital lost my paramedic jacket?"

"Yea, aren't they paying for your replacement?" Owen said.

"Yea, well it seams its not lost just misplaced. It apparently ended up in Meredith's things. She said I can stop by anytime and collect it."

"That's good then, right?" Owen asked not understanding why his brother wasn't happier about this information.

"Yea..."

"But." Owen knew there was a but, but he knew not to push, he'd drop it after this, if Carmine didn't want to say anything more.

"Not here, I don't want to talk about it here. When we are alone I'll tell you." Carmine walked out of the locker room and headed to the break room.

It has been over two weeks since they had been called to Meredith's home. Carmine still hadn't filled him in on the rest of the conversation that they had started in the locker room. Carmine had also remained quiet for the most part and as far as he knew he hadn't been to Meredith's. He knew he shouldn't inject himself in his brother's problems but he couldn't watch this shell of a person any longer.

He had a plan and he was headed to put that plan in motion. It was short notice, but he was hoping he could get Carmine and himself some time off.

Owen stepped into the chief's office and stood for a second for speaking. "Dale, do you have a moment?"

He looked up to see one of the last people that he expected to see in his office, surprise and dread settled in at the same time. Dale took a minute to get his bearings. "Yes, yes of course, come in, shut the door and have a seat."

Owen did as he asked and sat in one of the chairs in front of the chief's desk. "I know this is sudden and short notice, but I was wondering if there were a way that Carmine and I could get Friday thru Sunday off? I'm worried about my brother and I think the long weekend might do him some good."

Dale was surprised, but understood and being that the Murray boys hardly ever asked for a thing he had no problem granting Owen's request. "Why don't you boys take Monday too, I'm sure I can get the others to cover. Be back Tuesday morning 10AM sharp though."

"Thank you, sir." Owen stood, now he could continue on to step two.

Dale stood as well, "No problem, you take care of that brother of yours and we'll see you both Tuesday."

Owen had all day to figure out how he was gonna get Meredith on board. Even if she didn't end up coming along he would be dragging Carmine to the cabin come hell or high water.

Owen waited until they were on their first call of the day before telling Carmine that they were going to the cabin. All he got from Carmine was an okay. They talked and decided that they would take their individual vehicles and that Carmine would head out Thursday night.

The work day went by, nothing major happening, so it was pretty much an easy day. Later once their shift was over, Owen followed his brother and once he watched him go into Dark As Night,a local bar, he headed out to Meredith's. He only had two days to convince Meredith to join them at the cabin all weekend, it was time that Meredith and his brother really talked.

Owen pulled up in front of Meredith house and was relieve to see that she had no visitor's. Sitting in his truck he thought he heard singing and as he step out he was sure of it. He listened and realized it was coming from inside the barn.

As Owen walked closer to the barn he yelled out, "Anyone here, hello," but the singing continued. When he reached the barn the doors were open and he just stopped listening to Meredith's voice.

His presence was giving away once Mitzy started barking and whining at his feet. Meredith turned towards him just taking in the sight. She grabbed her crutches and slowly made her way toward her visitor. When she stopped in front of the man she looked him up and down briefly, he looked familiar but couldn't put a name with the face. Then it dawned on her, this man looked similar to Carmine.

She continued past him, but said, "Come, I need to sit down. You're Carmine's brother, right?" She continue on until she reached the swing on her front porch, leaving Carmine's brother to follow.

Carmine smiled and followed Meredith, made sure she was situated on the swing before answering her. "Yes, Ma'am, I am Owen, Carmine's brother."

"It is so good to see you again, and I can finally thank at lease one of you in person. Thank you for coming to my rescue and before you say, I was only doing my job, just shut it." She used her good leg to start the swing into a slow slide back and forth.

He hadn't talked to her much but he already liked her. A strong alpha female, was just what Carmine needed, but one that is soft enough to be second to her mate. "Your are most welcome, Carmine did pass on the written message. Has he been out to see you and retrieve his paramedic jacket?" Owen knew the answer but it would lead into his plans.

"No he hasn't stopped by, you can take it with you when you leave." She looked down at her hands, she had really hoped that Carmine would have come and got it though.

"I'm gonna guess and say you'd give it to him yourself or at least hoped that he would have come and got it. I can tell you that probably won't happen. I don't know all the reasons why, but I can guess at the ones I don't know." He looked up at Meredith and smiled.

They talked for the next two hours. Owen was careful not to bring up two years ago, that was something Carmine should do. By the end he had got Meredith to agree to joining him at the cabin. He conveniently forgot to mention Carmine would be there too.

To Be Continued....

Part 2

Chapter 3

Thanks to Veronica, Meredith had made it in to see Dr. Reid. The check up had went well, but she had to leave the brace on and continue to keep as much weight off of it as possible.

It was Friday and she was waiting for Owen to show up. To her surprise she was looking forward to the time at the cabin. She wasn't going to kid herself though, she did wish it was with Carmine and not Owen.

She was startled from her thoughts by a loud knock on the door. She slowly and carefully made her way to the window. After seeing that it was Owen she hollered, "Be right there." She reached over and unlocked the door before saying, "You can come in."

Owen stepped inside and shut the door behind him. "You ready to go?"

She had already called and spoke to Mack, arranging for him to care for the horses and Mitzy. "Whenever you are."

Owen looked around, not seeing a bag he asked, "Wouldn't you like to bring a change or two of clothes? We are going to be there until Monday night."

Meredith figured he'd ask, however she hadn't expected the feeling of embarrassment. "Most of my stuff in upstairs in my bedroom. I'm still unable to make it up the stairs and I didn't want anyone but Mack from the Damn Yankee to know that I wouldn't be home all weekend."

Owen smiled, well she had one of three choices. "Well you can go without, have me pack you a bag, or I could carry you upstairs so you can do it yourself, then carry you back down." He saw her face get even redder and she was staring at the floor now fiddling with her fingers. He decided to make the decision for her. "I'll go pack you three sets of clothes."

He turned and headed for the stairs before he heard her say anything. "There's gym bags in the closet and the rest is in the top two drawers of the dresser."

Owen took the steps two at a time, it took only a short time to find her bedroom, he was surprise that it wasn't all feminine. Instead it was earth tones. When he opened the top dresser drawer he was surprised to see that Meredith's undergarments were cotton and not lace. He just grabbed three sets and placed them into the bag. He also grabbed shorts and t-shirts as Meredith had instructed. He was tempted to look in the other drawers, but just smiled and shook his head. Somethings were better off not knowing. He quickly stepped into the adjoining bathroom and grabbed a bottle of body wash as well as an all in one shampoo / conditioner bottle. On his way back out of the bathroom he noticed her hair brush and grabbed it too.

By the time Owen rejoined Meredith downstairs she was stretched out on the couch asleep. He hated to wake her up just yet, so he took the bag he had just packed out to his truck as well as her crutches and Carmine's paramedic jacket. Once back inside he found her keys and slipped them in his pocket before walk over to Meredith.

He stood just looking at her when she became restless and she started talking, at first he couldn't make out what she was saying it was gibberish but then her voice raise and he heard her heartbeat increase and she yelled out. "No, no, nooooooooo, don't go, don't leave me here alone." He bent down and puller her into his arms. All he could think was is this what Carmine hadn't told him. He held her close and spoke softly, "Meredith wake up. It's okay, you are not alone. I'm right here."

He watched as her eyes slowly opened and blinked a couple of times before she said, "Carmine?" She closed her eyes again and kept them closed as she said, "I'm so sorry Owen."

All Owen could do was smile and say, "Its okay, Carmine is much prettier than I," and then he laughed as he picked Meredith up and carried her out to his truck and carefully put her in the passenger side. "I'm just going to lock up your house and then we'll be on our way."

Meredith couldn't believe she had called Owen, Carmine. She was glad that he hadn't questioned it or said anything other than he did. She would give anything to forget that night two years ago. She really needed to talk to Carmine.

Carmine was glad that he had took Owen's advice and head out to the cabin last night. There was no one around for miles. They even kept the vehicles a good ways away in an old barn that they had reinforced on the inside. From the outside it just looked like an old ass barn that had been forgotten about.

Last night was the first time he had slept decently in a long time. He had actually slept until well after the sun coming up. Now it was ten o'clock and he was sitting on the porch enjoying the outdoors and his third cup of coffee.

It wasn't the voices or even the sound of movement that he noticed first it was the heartbeat. He shook his head, there was no way Meredith should be here, unless... He listen closer and caught the voices on the wind, Owen and Meredith. He was going to kill his brother, just what did he think he was doing?

There wasn't anything he could do about it now, so he continued to sit and drink his coffee. Then a thought occurred to him, there was no way Meredith would be walking, which meant Owen was carrying her. Jealousy was bad no matter what but jealousy anger towards one's brother never turned out a good thing.

Carmine, set his coffee mug down and started toward them. He checked his anger as he saw them come into view. Seeing them together and with her arms wrapped around Owens neck surprisingly didn't anger him further, but he did pick up his pace. He wanted her in his arm, to feel her warmth surrounding him once again.

He waited until they were just a few feet apart before saying, "I'll take her from here," and held out his arms.

Meredith left go of Owen and willingly went into Carmine's arms. She looked over at Owen and smiled and politely thanked him.

Owen nodded before turning his attention to his brother. "I just need to go get our bags and a few other items from my truck. You kids gonna be okay?" He already knew he had some explaining to do to Carmine, so he decided to keep things light.

Carmine had already forgave his brother, but he still wanted to know why he brought Meredith here. He looked down at Meredith and asked, "We okay?" He saw her nod before she rested her head against his chest. Then he answered his brother, "Looks like." He watched as Owen turned around and headed back toward the barn.

Slowly and carefully Carmine began to carry Meredith to the cabin. He had only taken a few steps when she whispered, "I'm sorry, I didn't know you were going to be here too." Carmine tightened his arms around her before replying, "No worries, there's plenty of room for the three of us, the cabin was built big enough so me and my three brothers could hang together. And for the record I didn't know you would be here either, but now that we are we'll just make the best of it."

All Meredith could think was, there's two more of them? Were the others just as good-looking as Owen and Carmine. "Must be nice to have brothers to spend time with."

He could hear something in her voice, but wasn't sure what it was. "Yes, besides Owen there is Jaxon and Donovan. I also have a sister, Stella."

"Well at least I have Sheldon and Ronnie, so I'm not completely alone."

He knew who Sheldon was, but he wasn't sure who Ronnie is, but something told him they weren't family. "They your brothers?" He asked as he adjusted her in his arms.

"If only, they are both just good friends. I've know them both since elementary school. Sheldon was always looking out for me, still does. Veronica, her friends call her Ronnie is more like a sister than a friend. I owe them both so much." She snuggled into Carmine's neck for a while before adding, "I'm an only child, my parents and grandparents live over in Lancaster."

Nothing more was said mainly because Meredith had dozed off in his arms as he walked the rest of the way to the cabin. He didn't want to wake her so he sat on the swing and continued to hold her. He could have taken her inside but he figured the outside might do her good. It was a pleasant day at the cabin with all the tree coverage, it made the temps in the high sixties which was nice for late September. The light breeze that was blowing helped too.

Carmine still sat holding Meredith when Owen returned with his hands full. Carmine motioned for him to come closer. When he did he grabbed the crutches and leaned them against the cabin. "She fell asleep while we were still making our way here. I don't want to wake her just yet. There's coffee already made inside."

Owen could help but smile, the two of them looked perfect together. "I'll put her things in the master bedroom, that way she has her own bathroom and won't have to roam the place at night."

Carmine nodded his agreement and continued to hold Meredith as she slept.

Owen had rejoined him on the porch and they were quietly talking when Meredith woke. He was still holding her close but loosened his hold around her. He looked down and she was looking up at him and then he saw the smile appear on her lips. He looked over at Owen and said, "Miss Sleepyhead has finally awoke." He looked down at her and asked, "Would you like a coffee?"

Meredith had almost forgot that they weren't alone, that Owen was stay a with them. Without thinking she said, "I need to pee."

Figuring she had been carried enough, he helped her sit along beside him on the swing before handing her, the crutches. He watched as she stood and gained her balance before saying, "Your room is inside to the right, there's a bathroom connected to it. It's where you'll be sleeping."

She started to head toward the door to go inside when Owen stood. She stopped and looked at him and said, "Please don't treat me like a cripple, I understand not wanting me to navigate the woods, but this I can do on my own." She waited until he sat back down before continuing inside.

It was a few minutes later when they heard her yelling. For a few seconds Owen and Carmine just looked at one another. "You go," Owen said and he didn't have to say twice. Carmine was thru the door and at the bathroom door in no time at all.

"Meredith is everything alright?" He asked.

She was embarrassed, but she was glad that it was Carmine that had come. "You can come in." She waited until he did so and that she could see him. "There's no toilet paper, could you get me some?"

It was the one thing he hadn't done, but then he didn't expect anyone to use the master bedroom or bath. He walked over to the vanity and took out individual wrapped roll and handed it to her. He reached back under and grabbed a bar of soap and placed it up top before asking. "Anything else?"

She felt the heat rise in her cheeks as he looked at her, but managed to say, "Privacy?" She knew he wouldn't see anything he hadn't seen before, but she was pretty sure he hadn't seen hers before.

"Yes, of course. Help yourself in the kitchen. The mugs and glasses are above the coffee pot in the cupboard." As he walked away all he could think was, this going to be an interesting weekend. He needed to keep his distance from Meredith or things were going to happen.

Meredith made her way to the kitchen and noticed that it mid afternoon and she hadn't ate yet today. She pulled open the frig and was surprise to see that it was fully stocked. She pulled out a pack of chicken thighs along with potatoes. Then went in search of the other things she needed.

She had the potatoes on to boil for mashed potatoes and was waiting on the oil to come to temperature to fry the chicken. She was leaning against the counter checking her messages when she heard someone enter. Without looking she said out loud, "I'm in the kitchen." When the footsteps continued to come closer she looked up to find both Owen and Carmine looking at her. She smiled and said, "I was hungry and when I saw the time I figured I'd cook for all of us." She hoped she hadn't over stepped, Carmine had told her to help herself. "I hope that's okay?" Her smile faded a little but not completely.

They both spoke at the same time, "You don't have to."

She ignored they're looks of concern and instead of continuing with the current conversation she asked, "So, who's idea really was it to bring the crippled girl to the party and then expect her to just sit on her ass?" She was no child or a crippled and she would not be treated like neither.

"Mine." Owen said, then continued with, "I thought you might want to get away, and with not one but two medical professionals here, you should be fine."

"Okay, but why not tell us that the other was gonna be here?" Meredith said point at Carmine and herself.

All Owen had to say to that was, "I think you both know why." He looked from one to the other. "I'm going to go pick up some beer, is there anything I can pick up for you Meredith?"

"Morgan David, Blackberry wine, any liquor place should carry it, if they don't just grab some vodka."

"Got it, I'll be back," and he left.

Meredith turned back to pan of oil to check to see if it had reached temperature. A few seconds pasted before she heard Carmine ask, "Can I give you hand with that?" Without turning around she said, "Sure, would you mind doing the frying?"

Carmine stepped around the island and grabbed the leather apron from the peg. "I'd be happy too."

Grabbing the tongs hanging on the wall Carmine began to fry the first couple of pieces.

Meredith watched him after preparing the next couple of pieces. She couldn't help but notice that it apparently wasn't his first at this. The silence stretched on between them for a while until Meredith asked, "Can I ask you something?"

"Sure, ask away." He kept his back to her waiting for the question.

"It was you in the alley two years ago, wasn't it?" She meant to word it differently, but it was already asked now.

He expected the question and he knew the answer he would give, but it was the following questions that he was worried about. "Yes, it was." He turned to face her before continuing, "I'm sorry for leaving you lying there." He turned back to the chicken and exchanged the done pieces for the next ones.

Before Meredith could think it thru she asked, "Why? Being that you are a paramedic, why didn't you stay?"

And that was the question he feared the most. How could he tell her and not lie to her. He flipped the chicken giving himself a few more seconds to think of an answer. Turning towards her again he said, "I was exactly fit to be seen, let alone preforming any kind of medical treatments, so I called 911 and directed them to you."

"I see," was all she said and he was surprised that she would just drop the subject. He felt he needed to say more, "since that night it has never happen again. There isn't a day that goes by that I didn't stay by your side. Again, I'm sorry."

"Did you stay nearby though? Before you left me you said you would be nearby until help arrived."

"Yes, I was nearby until the police arrived and you were being put into the back of the ambulance. I couldn't leave until I knew you were safe." He turned the burner off and put the tongs down before turning to Meredith. He took a step closer to her and gathered her into his arms. He whispered, "please tell me you can forgive me."

She had never been mad at him, how could she be after what he did. He had saved her life that night. She took small step back and raised her hand to his cheek before saying, "I was never mad at you. It's just for two years now I've been wanting to find you and thank you for being there that night. If you hadn't shown up..." She left her words trail off because of all the possibilities of what could have happen that night. She turned and leaned against the counter.

Carmine stepped behind her and gathered her back into his arms. "Don't think about what could have happen, it didn't, I did." He dropped his mouth her neck and nuzzled and kissed it before letting her go.

She turned in his arms and looked up into his eyes wanting those lips on hers. She started to moved closer to do just that, but he took a step back and said, "There is so much more you need to know about me." He looked at her and gave a little smiles before returning to the chicken,removing the last couple of pieces from the oil.

Meredith went to follow him, but before she could take a step she heard the front door and Owen saying, "I'm home, I'll give y'all thirty seconds to get decent."

Carmine yelled back, "No need."

"I know your my brother, but I really don't want to see anything that swings on you."

Carmine stepped into the living room before saying. "You are such a dork. We've been frying chicken, not a good think to be naked with things swinging around hot oil." He saw the grin on Owen face and picked up a pillow from the couch and flung it at his brother.

"Okay fine, whatever you say."

Meredith made her way to the couch and sat before saying, "I hope you two can handle dishing up everything."

Owen and Carmine both turned and watched as Meredith made her way to the couch. Carmine walked over to the pillow he had thrown at his brother and picked it up, before take it over to Mere to rest her leg on it.

Chapter 4

It was early the next morning when Meredith was sitting on the porch enjoy a cup of coffee when three men appeared from out of no where. At first she wasn't worried, but when they stepped up on the porch and pointed their guns she knew she was in trouble.

Carmine wasn't sure what woke him, but then he heard Meredith rapid heartbeat. He nudged his brother awake. "Owen. Owen."

"What?"

"Something is wrong, Meredith's heart rate is escalated and she not in the cabin."

"Shhh, listen." Owen said. And that's when they heard a male's voice.

"Let's go." They didn't bother with clothes, they both leaped down from the loft and rushed to the front door.

When Carmine heard, "quit lying you stupid bitch," Carmine lost control and burst thru the front door and within seconds he was on the men. He heard Meredith scream but he didn't stop until all three men were knocked out cold on the ground. He didn't need to turn around to know that his secret was out.

Owen just stood in the doorway, he knew it was unwise to do anything. He looked over at Meredith when she screamed. She sat now just staring at Carmine. He had hoped that they would have time to explain things before she saw what she had just seen.

Carmine turned towards Meredith and closed his eyes, this was not how he wanted Meredith to find out. "Owen, tie these guys up and call the police." He said before running off.

All Owen said was, "No, problem." He walked back into the house and ground the rope from the closet.

After tying up the men, he made a call, but not to the police. He called their father. "Opal, is Stiofan there?"

"Yes, what happen?" Opal knew that when any of their children called using their given names instead of mom or dad, it wasn't good.

"Can you have him come to the cabin? We need three men removed from the property"

"We'll be there in fifteen minutes. Where's Carmine? Is he safe?"

"He is, don't worry. Also, we have a friend staying with us at the cabin." He wanted his parents to know so they would act normal.

"Okay son, we're on our way."

After getting over the shock, Meredith just sat and listened to Owen conversation. She waited until she saw him put his phone back in his pocket before saying anything. "Are they okay?"

"Yes, they are, although they'll be out of it for a while. Are you alright?"

"Yes, they didn't touch me." Meredith raised her eyes from the men on the ground to Owen's face. "Would mind putting some clothes on? At least a robe."

Owen wanted to go after his brother, but he knew his main concern right now needed to be for Meredith and the three men now tied up and each of them to a tree. "Of course, I'm sorry."

Meredith didn't mind seeing Owen that way, it didn't bother her, but if the police was coming he should have more on than just his boxers. When he returned and sat down on the porch with a cup of coffee she asked the one question she really wanted answered. "Is Carmine going to be alright?"

"Yes." He didn't know what else to say to Meredith. He was actually surprised that she was taking things as well as she was.

"Will he be back?" She asked.

"In time, yes, he just needs some time."

"Is this why he didn't stay with me in the alley?"

Owen knew what she was talking about, but wasn't sure if it was his place to answer. "Maybe. You really need to ask him. I imagine you two will have a lot to talk about once he returns. Give him a few hours Meredith, he'll return."

Meredith had heard of the different people living in the area. Some said they didn't belong, that they all should be killed, others said that as long as they left them alone they were fine with them. She had never seen any of these people until now. She had imagined that they changed into animals, mainly because she had heard them referred to as panthers, wolves, bears, and even deer shifters. She wasn't sure what to make of Carmine.

A thought came to mine, was Owen the same way, was their entire family this why. So, she asked, "Are you like Carmine?"

Owen sat listening for Carmine, but he couldn't hear him. It was Meredith question that gained his attention. "Yes, I am."

She figured as much. "Why didn't you shift like Carmine." She asked.

"I would have, but..." he went silent and listened. "we'll continue this conversation later. Opal and Stiofan are almost here."

Meredith looked up from the porch to see a man and woman walking towards them. The man stopped at the men still unconscious tied to the trees. The woman continued toward them. Meredith watched as Owen stood up and walked to the woman and gave her a hug.

Owen hugged his mother and whispered, "she doesn't know everything yet, she's Carmine's girl and he has a lot of explaining to do once he gets back." Owen kissed him mother's cheek before stepping back to make the introductions. "Opal this is Meredith, Meredith this is Opal, my mother and that down there is my father Stiofan."

Meredith reached for her crutches, but before she could get up Opal stepped forward and said, "Please, there's no need to get up." Opal offered her hand in greeting. "You can meet Stiofan once Owen and he takes those young men to the truck."

Meredith watched as Stiofan picked up one and place him over Owen's empty shoulder. Then he picked up the last man and they walked back the way Opal and Stiofan had just come from.

Meredith moved her attention back to the woman still standing but watching the guys leave. "There's coffee inside I can get you some." She wasn't sure what to say, didn't know if she knew her way around or not.

Opal turned back around to face the woman that has captured her eldest son's heart. "I'm good, thank you. So, you are the one that has my son running. I can see why." Opal didn't sit, just leaned again the pillar.

"Apparently so. I'm also the one that makes him freak out and twice now has thrown himself at my attackers. Just what am I going to do with him?" Meredith left out a little giggle trying to keep things light. She wish Owen would have told her that it was his parents coming to clean up the mess.

"Twice you say, when was the first?"

"Two years ago, although I didn't know it was him then." Meredith really didn't want to rehash two years ago even if it was Carmine's mother.

"I see," was all Opal said.

A few minutes later Meredith heard something and looked in the direction only to see Owen walking toward them. He stepped up on the porch and said, "Stiofan didn't want to leave those guys alone, they were starting to stir."

Before anything else could be said, Opal was off the porch saying, "Nice to meet you Meredith. Owen take care of your brother." And then she was gone.

"That's mom, she really knows how to make an exit." He looked down at Meredith and smiled. "I hope she didn't make you uncomfortable."

"No, she didn't say much."

"I'm sorry I didn't mean to leave you alone with her, but dad wouldn't have let her help carrying the guys out."

"No problems, she seems really nice." It seemed like forever since Carmine has run off. She was beginning to worry. "I'm sorry Owen, but I'm worried about Carmine. I know you said to give him time, but we are surrounded by woods."

"I tell you what, let's get you inside and settled and I'll to look for him." Owen helped her up and then handed her the crutches and held the door open for her.

Owen left Meredith to settle on the couch as he went and got a gun out of the safe. When he returned she was sitting on the couch with her leg propped up. He stepped in front of her and handed her the gun, he was surprised that she took it with out any problem. "I assume you know how to use this?" He asked before leaving go of the pistol.

"Yes, I got one of my own and learned how to use it. This one is a bit bigger than mine, but I'm sure I'll have no problem using it if it comes to that." She tucked the gun between her leg and the cushion.

"Good. I'll lock the door behind me. Do not worry I'll be back with or without Carmine before dark." Owen walked away and out the door.

Meredith heard the lock click on the door and left go of the breath that she had been holding. All the what ifs started running thru her head. She picked up the gun again and looked at it, held it in her hand to get use to its weight. She had almost got one like it two years ago, but the salesman at the gun shop had talked her into buying a different one, telling her to get use to the smaller one and to practice it with it until she could group her shots with in a three inch circle. Once she could do that he would gladly exchange the gun for her. She had practiced and loved the gun, so she never went back to exchanged it. The salesman had also told her if she perfected her aim, the gun would serve her well. She was thankful that she hasn't had to prove her skill under duress.

It was hours later when Meredith was startled awake by someone at the door. She looked around and realized it was already dark outside, as the door opened she reached for the gun and twisted onto her stomach. Before whoever it was could take another step she yelled, "Don't take another step, if you do I swear I'll put a bullet in you." She heard some scuffling and said again. "I said don't fucking move."

"Meredith, its just us Owen and Carmine. I'm just gonna come too you." Owen motioned for Carmine to stay where he was and then slowly walked towards Meredith so she could see for herself that it was indeed just him. He was about five feet away before he saw her and that she still had the gun pointed at him. "Meredith, put the gun down, its okay, I found Carmine. Carmine come here."

Meredith watched and listened as someone else walked closer. At first all she saw was Carmine still naked all but his boxer briefs, but then she noticed something else. She couldn't quite make it out though. She placed the gun on the end table before saying, "Carmine, step closer." That's when she saw it, Carmine's chest was all blood. "You're hurt. Sit." Meredith motioned for Carmine to sit in front of her on the coffee table.

Owen just stood in silence watching the scene play out in front of him. He wasn't sure what Meredith's reaction would be to Carmine after what she had saw that morning. They would have returned sooner but Carmine had argued against it, saying that they should give Meredith more time, so they had waited until the sun was down to head back to the cabin.

Meredith managed to sit up and reached over to Carmine cheek. "Are you alright?" She watched as he just nodded his head yes. She turned her head to look at Owen that still stood where he was. "Owen, please put the gun back wherever you keep it and get me some warm water, and medical supplies so I can tend to your brother."

When Owen returned, he noticed the eerie silence that filled the room. He looked from his brother to Meredith and back again. Deciding to stay silent he sat the basin of warm water next to Carmine on the coffee table and the rest of the supplies next Meredith on the arm of the couch. As he started to walk away he heard Meredith say, "Thank you, Owen." To keep himself busy he walked to the kitchen and started on supper.

Meredith dipped the wash cloth into the basin and wrung it out and then started with Carmine's face. She was glad to see that it wasn't actually cut, that it was just smudged with blood. She she continued down to his torso this is where she found the real cuts. She was surprised when he didn't even flinch, but then she noticed just how tight he was holding on to the edge of the coffee table. His knuckles had gone white.

She looked up into his eyes and asked, "are these going to require stitches? If so Owen will have to do that."

"Finish cleaning the rest of them, then we can ask Owen, he'll be able to see them better than I." Carmine closed his eyes as Meredith brought the cloth back up to his chest.

Meredith finished washing all the blood and dirt away being careful around the cuts. When finished she gently laid her hand on his cheek again and looked up into his eyes. "Once Owen takes a look at these we need to talk. She leaned forward and kissed his cheek where her hand had just been, before calling out to Owen. "Owen, can you come here please?" She waited until Owen stood behind the couch. "You need to take a look at the cuts" She pointed to Carmine chest. "I'm not sure what ones if any need stitches. I assume you have what's needed to do that." She worked her way down the couch so Owen could sit and examine the cuts.

After a few minutes Owen said, "A few of them do. I'll be right back."

And right back he was, he carried a towel, a bottle of something and a kit. He sat back down. Carmine stood and Owen laid out the towel. Meredith watched as Carmine laid down now with the towel under his torso. Owen proceeded to washes the cuts out. Once done he handed Carmine another towel. Carmine rolled it up and bit down on it. It was then that Meredith realized Owen was going to start stitching Carmine up.

Once Owen finished he clean up everything but the ointment, bandages, tape and scissors. He stood and said, "Meredith would you please dress all the wounds and bandage them."

"Yes I can manage that, thank you, Owen."

"Its not the first time I've had to do that and I'm sure it won't be the last." Owen said as he walked away.

Meredith didn't say anything as she dressed Carmine's wounds. She did however notice the other scars, long faded, but they were still there. Once the last wound was bandages Meredith started to clean up.

He couldn't take the silence any longer, not from Meredith. He sat up and took her hands in his, stilling them. "Mere, please say something. This silence is worst than if you would be screaming and yelling at me." He watched as she sat looking down at their hands.

Even thought she knew Owen knew everything, she still felt that they should have this conversation privately. She glanced up at Carmine and into his eyes. "Carmine, I want to talk I really do, but not with your brother nearby."

Before either of them said anything more Owen yelled from the kitchen that supper was done.

Carmine stood and nodded and walked away. He understood, and he would respect Mere's wishes. They would talk, but for now it would have to wait.

Meredith made her way to the kitchen and join Owen and Carmine at the bar. Owen had already set out dishes and silverware. When she was done eating she excused herself and instead of returning to the living room she made her way to the bedroom.

She stepped into the bathroom and she was drawn to the Jacuzzi once again. Screw it, she thought to herself and made her way over to it. She undressed and carefully got in. After settling herself she started the water. The heat from the water was a welcome, it soothed a lot of the tense muscles. She really needed to get one of these put in at her home.

She must have nodded off because when she awoke the water was damn near ice cold. She tried to lift herself out of the water a few times before she realized it was useless, she wasn't going to be able to get out by herself without putting weight on her leg and she knew that was a very very bad idea, with only nearly four weeks of mending it wasn't healed and she could re-injure it if she tried to put any weight on it. She didn't have any choice, she was going to need help.

She was just about to yell for help when a knock came at the bathroom door. "Who is it?" She called out. She already felt the embarrassment warming her neck and cheeks.

Carmine's voice answered her, "Its Carmine. I came to check on you but you weren't in bed."

From the muffle of his voice she could tell that he hadn't even opened the door. "Could you come in here please?" She knew there really wasn't any reason to be so embarrassed, they both adult's for Christ sake. However when she heard the door open she sunk lower into the water.

"Mere, are you okay? It's all I want to know. I don't mean to interrupt whatever you are doing." He remained just inside the bathroom. He didn't hear any water running so maybe she was just finishing up, he thought to himself.

Fuck it, she thought to herself. "Carmine come here, damn it, I need your help." She waited for him to round the corner before continuing. "I just wanted to relax for a while and I know I shouldn't be in here..." She stopped talking knowing she was just rambling.

"Mere you do not need to explain, I get it, it was a stressful day. I just wish you would have told me. I could have been here when you were ready to get out." He grabbed a towel off the shelf as he walked towards her.

"Well I sort of fell asleep, so I don't know how long I've been in here. Sorry."

"Let's get you out of there." He tossed the towel over his shoulder and stepped up behind her. "Ready?"

"Yes."

"I'm gonna help you stand up now. Can you side up a bit?" He waited until she did so before squatting behind her, wrapping his arms under her arms and over her breasts. Before even stepping into the bathroom he had told himself that Mere was just another person needing his help. Telling himself this helped him do what needed done without complications.

Once they were standing he held her to his chest until she had her balance on her good leg. He then took the towel and wrapped it around her, covering her for both her sake and his. "I want you to sit on the side now. Once I'm out I'll help you to the bedroom." After she sat he reached over turned the lever so the water could empty out. He then got out and picked her up and carried her to the bedroom. He returned to the bathroom for her crutches and sat them down next to her. "Please, the next time you want to do that let Owen or I know."

He turned to leave her for the night, but was stopped with her saying, "Please, stay for a minute." He turned back to her and listened, her heart rate had picked up. He knew he should decline, but... "If that is what you want."

"Can we talk? Not about us, but this morning? Owen only told me so much. He said I should speak to you, that it was your place to tell me."

This he could do, this he wanted to do, he wanted to tell her, to help her understand, to help her not be afraid if she was. He didn't sit next to her, but pulled a chair up to in front of her. He took her hands in his and looked up in to her soul searching eyes. He didn't see fear, he saw confusion, wonder, and something else, but up front was confusion. It was a look he knew well, but this was different because he knew what the confusion was about. Now he just hoped he could help clear it up.

Before starting he asked one question. "Are you sure about this?" She didn't answer with words, just a nod of her head...

To Be Continued...

Part 3

Chapter 5

Carmine just sat and looked at Meredith trying to decide where to start and how to explain things. He picked up her hands again and said, "Meredith, look at me?" He waited until she did. "I... I..."

Meredith tightened her grip and said, "Carmine, just say it. I'm not going anywhere. Don't you think I'd be long gone by now if I didn't want to even try to understand."

"Okay." He left go of her hands and stood. He wondered around the room for a bit and then began. "Not many know about my kind, most assume we are like all the others, the shifters, and the werewolves, and in someways we are. We don't shift into animals, not really, some of our abilities are always there, like our strength and speed. Our hearing, sense of smell, and eye sight are also heightened. It's how I knew you were in trouble this morning. I'm not sure what all you saw this morning, but my kind does shift in away, just that its different than the animal shifters or werewolves. We stay for the most part human, our fingernails grow out, our eye teeth grow to what human's call fangs and our faces distort into something more animal like. He walked over and sat back down in front of Meredith and waited.

She wasn't sure what to say, but she did know what he wanted. "Carmine, thank you, that explains a lot. I do have questions though, but I want you to know that I'm not scare, I've never been scared OF you, this morning I was scared FOR you, especially after you just ran off."

"I was scared of how you would react. I'm guessing Owen..."

Meredith took his hands and squeezed before bringing them up so she could rest her chin on their joined hands. "Carmine, Owen was fine, however I do know that your entire family is what you are, and I'm okay with it." She leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek. "I even met your parents, Opal is very sweet. Stiofan, I only got to say hi to before he and Owen took the men away. I know that you have two other brothers and a sister." She wasn't sure if she should be saying all this but she didn't want anything between them right now.

"Sounds like Owen has been sharing quite a lot."

"He has only answered my questions, and some of them he only said that I needed to talk to you." Meredith really didn't want to become between Carmine and Owen, but she had needed some answers before.

Carmine, looked up into her eyes and couldn't take it any longer. In one movement he stood scooping her into his arms and placing her further on the bed. He quickly removed his pants and climbed on the bed after her, straddling her hips with his knees. He supported himself first on his hands bending down to kiss her soft, sweet, and slow at first. When she moaned and started giving as good as she was getting he lowered himself down on his forearms that were on either side of her head and deepened the kiss. He slid his tongue between her lips and found her tongue to play with. Another moan escape her throat and it just about drove him over the edge.

This is what she had wanted ever since that day at the store. The need and want, to have his kisses, his touch, and now she wanted more, she wanted all of him. She reached up and ran her fingers thru this hair pulling him down to her waiting lips. She ran her hand down his back and slid around bumping into his erection and couldn't hold back the school girl giggle. She ran her hand over it the best she could since it was restrained behind his boxer briefs. She wasn't sure but she could have sworn that he grew larger. She ran her hand up to his abs and slid her finger tips beneath the waist band of his boxer briefs, she wanted to wrap her hand around him. Leaving his abs she ran both hands thru his hair again and pulled his head back down so she could whisper in his ear. "Take them off, please." She left go of him and looked into his eyes as he pushed himself up. His eyes had gone as dark as a stormy night.

He rolled off of her, but laid down alongside of her before saying, "Mere, not here. I know I started this, but I don't want to make love to you when my brother can hear every little noise even if he doesn't want too. I didn't mean for it to go any further than kissing and petting. I want you to know how I feel about you. How I've felt for a long time."

She was glad that one of them had some restraint. She looked over and couldn't help but notice that he was still needing attention, she had heard that it was painful if they didn't get release, or was that just what guys said to get what they wanted. She brought her eyes up to his, they had lighten some but not much. "Do you need to take care of that?" She knew she could do with some release, but she knew it would subside it already had but the want was still there, however that want was not for self-gratification.

"I'll be fine." He saw the worry flash across her face. He hated the myth that guys needed to finish or it would cause major pain or whatever. "Meredith, it's no big deal. I know what's said, and let me assure you that nothing is going to happen if I don't get some kind of release. It's no different from what I'm sure you've felt."

"Alright." It's all she could think to say.

"I should probably go then." He said as he got up.

Mere grabbed a hold of his wrist before he could leave the bedroom. When he looked back at her she said, "Please stay. Can we talk? I still have some questions and when I asked Owen he said to ask you." She left go of him and waited to see what he would do.

If Mere had questions he would stay, but he could not end up back alongside her. He picked up his sweats off the floor and put them on. He sat down in the chair that he had pulled over earlier. "Ask, please."

She rolled to her side resting her mending leg on top of the other. Propping herself up on her elbow she said, "Tell me about that night in the alley. Everything please, everything was blurry."

That night was forever burned in his mind, at times he swore he could still hear her screams and cries for help. "I heard you scream, a scream that I'll never ever be able to forget. By the time I reached you they had you on the ground and when I heard your cries I didn't even think I just reacted. No one deserves what they were doing to you, and what could have happen if I hadn't heard you. It was over so quickly, I caught them off guard. They are lucky I didn't kill them, but it was your pleading words that pulled me back. If it would have been anyone else I'm sure they wouldn't have heard you. You were saying, please help me, in barely a whisper. That's when I knelt to check on you, I covered you with my coat then called 911. You passed out, I stayed made sure you kept breathing until I heard the ambulance nearby. I told you that help was coming, I wasn't sure if you even heard me until you said, don't go, please don't go. I couldn't stay, I couldn't afford to be questioned about the attackers. I could risk loosing my job as a paramedic. I did stay close by until I saw the guys attending to you and load you into the ambulance."

She remember so of what he said the rest had been unclear until now. The aroma of Christmas, she knew it from that night, and now she knew why. She had kept the jacket even though it wasn't hers. The hospital had assumed that it was and had put it with her possessions. She looked up at him and smiled, "Tell me what is it that you were that makes you smell like Christmas? I always wondered where I knew the aroma from. It was from that night. The mixture of pine and cinnamon is a unique combination."

Carmine thought for a minute, "Its my beard oil. I make it myself."

"I wouldn't think the two would go together, but they do. It's not just those two scents though is it?"

"No I add a touch of patchouli to it as well."

"Well it suits you, I'd tell you to market it, but I'm guessing you prefer to keep it personal. You aren't wearing any are you?" She reached out to touch his beard.

He knew he shouldn't let her touch him, but he wanted her too. "No, I'm not. I ran out that day we ran into each other at the store."

When her hand slid toward the back of his neck he gently grabbed her wrist and pulled her hand away. He stood and stepped closer to her. She rolled on to her back. He bent over and took her other wrist in his hand and moved them both to above her head on the pillow. He kisses her softly and then whispered, "Get some sleep," and then he walked out of the room.

Chapter 6

Owen had been the one that took her back home. Carmine promised to check in on her later in the week, that had been two weeks ago and he still hadn't come.

She had a check up with Dr. Reid today. She was waiting for Ronnie to come and pick her up. She had made her way out to the barn, just to make sure Star, Blaize, and Mitzy knew she hadn't forgotten about them. Mitzy had, had her babies while she was gone. Mack had told her that he had taken the runt of the litter home to give him the best chance at surviving. She had told him to feel free to keep the pup. Mack had told her this morning that he was doing good for being so small. He had also said that the vet had taken a look and said that he should be fine.

The honking of a horn let Meredith know that Ronnie had arrived. She made her way out and into Ronnie car. Minutes later they were on their way to Wellspan hospital.

Mere was waiting to be taken for x-rays when she heard his voice, she glanced up and sure enough there he stood.

Carmine had wanted to check on the elderly gentlemen they had brought in a few hours ago, so he stopped at the ER desk. While he was waiting for the nurse to check he heard a familiar heartbeat. A few minutes later when the nurse gave him the update he asked about Meredith and was relieved when she was just in for a check up with Dr. Reid. He could have just walked over to her and asked if she was alright, but he bet that she wasn't alone. So, when he left to return to the rig he didn't even look in the direction of the waiting room.

She wanted to call out to him, but instead just left him go. No one knew about Carmine yet and she wanted to keep it that way. Hopefully she only had a few more weeks before she could chase him down. She missed the closeness they had shared at the cabin. She had hoped that he would have come and seen her like he said he would, but as of yet he hadn't.

The check up with Dr. Reid went well he showed her, her x-rays point to where the break was, saying that she should be good to go in another two weeks. Then they could plan therapy and get her back to 100%. He told her in a week she could start putting weight on the leg, but only for brief periods of time. He also wanted her to take the brace off and work on straightening the leg out a few times a day.

Before returning home, Mere asked Ronnie if she had time to take her shopping. Even if Ronnie did have things to do, she would put them off, so asking was just a courtesy. "Do you have time to take me grocery shopping?"

Ronnie's reply was, "Weis, Giant, or Wally World?"

Meredith hated the crowd and the lay out of Walmarts so Wally World was out. "Weis or Giant I don't care which." Meredith closed her eyes and rested leaving the choice up to Ronnie.

She must have dozed off because when Ronnie awoke her they were parked in Weis's parking lot.

"Mere you coming in or do you want me to go ahead and get what you need?"

"I'm coming, that is if you don't mind being with a slow poke like me?" She said.

"It's no problem Mere, I cleared my day for you." Ronnie got out and jogged around the car and got Mere's crutches out of the back and handed them to her.

"Thanks Ronnie, one of these days I'll repay everything you've done for me."

Ronnie leaned back inside and grabbed her purse giving Mere time to head in to the store.

They were in the produce section when some young kids came running thru, bumping into Meredith. She lost her balance and fell to the ground. She didn't say or do anything for awhile. The next thing she knew an employee was at her side.

"Are you alright, hun?"

When Meredith looked up at the woman and was surprised to see that it was Opal. "I'm fine, I think. If anything my pride is bruised." And she laugh as Opal and Ronnie helped her stand up.

Once she was supported with her crutches again a male voiced asked, "What happen here?"

Before Meredith could answer Opal said, "It was a couple of youngsters, they bumped into Ms..."

Meredith was grateful to Opal to keeping it professional. "Meredith, and I'm fine. I'm sure it was just an accident." She looked up at the man, that was more than likely the store manager.

"If you are sure you aren't hurt, Ma'am, however if you wouldn't mind stopping at the office before leaving I'll need you to sign a paper saying as such."

"Yes, of course. Thank you both, but I am indeed fine. I'm here with Veronica, so I'm in good hands." She looked over at Ronnie.

"Yes, thank you, but we'll be fine. I'll make sure she signs whatever paper before we leave."

The manager walked away satisfied that things were handled. Meredith was about to continue behind Ronnie when Opal tapped her on the shoulder. She stopped and leaned up again a cooler. She said, "Ronnie go ahead I'll catch up, I just need a minute." She waited until Ronnie was a little ways away before turning her attention to Opal. "Really I'm fine, Opal."

"I know dear, I know. I know those boy's mother they will be dealt with." Opal stepped in front of Meredith and said, "Has my boy been to see you?"

Meredith wasn't sure which boy she was talking about, Owen or Carmine. She didn't want to give too much away so she simply answered, "No."

"I see." Opal said.

"I'm sure he's very busy, it's not a big deal." She wonder if Opal was like her sons or if the children took after their father.

"Alright hun, I won't keep you any longer, I think your friend is waiting for you." Opal said and walked away toward the doors that led to the back of the store.

An hour and a half later, the paper signed at the front desk and the groceries loaded for them into the car by the manager himself and they were finally heading out-of-town to Mere's place.

Carmine had no need to look at who was calling the ring tone told him all he needed to know and he chose to ignore it once again. Five minutes later his phone was ringing again, this time it was his father calling, he ignored this call as well. The only family he had talked to since the weekend at the cabin was Owen and that was only because he had to work with him. He might have to work with him and talked about work but that didn't mean he had to talk about anything else and when Owen did try to talk about anything other than work related he didn't respond.

He felt his brother anger and frustration, but didn't give a damn. The funny thing was no one had any reason to be mad, he wasn't mad, he just wanted to left alone. It had been weeks since the time at the cabin, weeks of him just being by himself except for at work. The last week had got worst with the phone calls from his mother and now she had got his father to start calling. He knew what the voice mails would say, his mother's would go on and on and end with, 'we love you,' his father's would simply be, 'call me when you're ready son'. He knew his father was only calling because his mother wouldn't let it go, so he would call and say something, just doing his husbandry duty.

Carmine picked up his cell and dialed and waited, on the fourth ring he heard his father voice say hello, he answered with, "My place, come alone," and hung up. He didn't like being so short with his father, but he knew his father would understand.

While waiting for his father to show up Carmine put on a fresh pot of coffee, he had a feeling they were going to need it. When the knock came at his door he stopped and listen, he heard one heart beat that was slightly elevated, he also could hear the person was short of breath. He walked to the door and opened it wide, so his father could walk thru with the bags and boxes of pizza he carried. Once his father was clear he shut and locked the door and joined him in the living room.

"Thanks for coming, dad." He said as he walked to the kitchen for plates.

"I knew when you were ready you would talk to someone." He sat on the couch and spread the boxes out and grabbed two beers from the bag.

Carmine couldn't help but smile, leave it to his father to bring pizza and beer. He always said it was comfort food and he had to agree, it most certainly was just that comfort food and even better when shared with ones father.

Stiofan looked at his son, he looked tired, beat down even, more than normal anyway. He knew his son slept little, but it looked like he hadn't even had a minutes rest in a week or more. "Son, what wrong? You keep going on like this and you are going to end up hurting yourself of someone else."

Carmine grabbed a piece of pizza and took a bite before saying, "Dad, I need advice, female advice."

Stiofan had a feeling this had something to do with Meredith. He had told Owen to stay out of it, but he hadn't listened. He looked at his son and said one word, "Meredith?"

"Yes." Carmine put the slice down and popped open a beer.

"Son if she hasn't run from you by now, she's not going too. Your mother was the same way, nothing I did scared her away and I tried, I didn't want to fall in love or start a family, but Opal had other ideas. She saw that I was hurting and she could give me what I was really searching for, Love. Don't fight this son, Meredith is the one you are waiting for."

"But..." Carmine began to say only to be stopped with what his father said next.

"Yes, she's not the same as you, me and your brothers and sister, but your mother isn't either. As you can see it is possible to make a life with a normal human being. Meredith may have questions, but she hasn't run. Go to her, talk with her, answer her questions, if you can't call me."

The rest of the evening was spent with them catching up on the rest of the family. His father said he'd handle things with mother, but he had to promise to bring Meredith to the family cook out next weekend.

When his father phone rang he knew it was mother before he even answered it. He heard his father say, "Yes love, I'm on my way home. No, I'm not at the bar, I'm with our son." Carmine smiled when he heard his father deliberately not say which son.

"Gotta go son." Stiofan stood and emptied his third cup of coffee.

Carmine walked his father down to his truck. He pulled his father into a tight hug and whispered, "Thanks for everything, dad."

Stiofan patted his son on the back and smiled with the thought that maybe finally he'd get a grand baby. "I'm here when you need me son, now go get that girl of yours and bare your heart to her before the opportunity passes you by." With that said he climbed his truck and headed home.

Carmine stood and watched his father drive a way, knowing that he was headed home into his mother loving arms. He had watch his parents love grow and grow over the years, it was so strong that not even death could break it.

Chapter 7

With his father's last words still ringing in his ears he took off towards Meredith's. He knew if he ran full-out he'd be there in less than an hour, and ran he did until he saw her house in the distance. He slowed to a brisk walk and continued toward the house. He wasn't sure if she'd still be awake but he didn't want to wait another second. The talk he had with his father made things so much clearer. He stepped up on the porch, knocked and stepped back. Before he knew it the door flew open and Meredith jumped into his arms. He caught her without any problem and wrapped his arms around her. He felt her legs wrapped around his waist and he spun her around and around enjoying the joyful sounds that escaped her lips. He stopped, looked at her and slanted his mouth across hers. The kisses were light and loving at first, but then she parted her lips leaving him an opening which he took and slide his tongue between them in search of hers.

Meredith left herself go, there was nothing she was going to regret about tonight and she sure as hell was not going to leave Carmine out of her sight until morning. When she looked out the window and saw that it was him she was beyond happy.

Carmine finally let her slide down his body until her feet hit the porch, but continued to hold her in his arms. "I'm sorry..." was all he got out before he was shut up by Meredith's lips pressed against his as her hands slid into his hair and around his neck as she leaned up against him and let out a growl.

The last thing she wanted was to talk, she wanted him, here, now and naked. "Pick me back up Mr. Paramedic." Once he did she continued with, "Inside, upstairs, first door, now!"

He knew where this was going and he didn't care. He walked inside, kicked the door shut and locked it before proceeding with the rest of her directions. He stopped inside the room upstairs and straight to the bed and in one smooth motion and tossed her on the bed and followed, crawling up body, pressing kisses to her heated flesh as he went. Once at her breasts he gave each of them equal attention and enjoy the little noises coming from Meredith. He continued with the kisses up between her breasts over to her should and up to nibble on her left earlobe before ending the journey at her sweet, sweet lips.

She brought her hands up to his face, cupping it, and grabbing a hold of his beard she brought his lips back to hers. It was then that she noticed the scent of Christmas. She brought her knees up, hugging his hips as she deepened the kiss. Breaking the kiss she looked at him, smiled and said, "I think someone has too many clothes on for this party. Strip, Mr. Paramedic, the patient's cold and needs warming up and she heard that skin next to skin is the quickest way to do that."

Carmine just smiled and kissed her sweet lips again before sliding back down her body, stopping and playfully tugged on her panties with his teeth. He didn't have to look or feel, he could smell how wet she had become, he slide down between her thighs and lightly kissed her thru her panties, before getting up from the bed.

He moved to the side of the bed so Meredith would have a better view. She said strip and that is what he planned on doing. He started with his shirt, slowly he unbutton each button, then left it hanging open as he bent and untied his boots. He toed off his boots and then turned his back to her as he slowly removed his shirt. He heard her breath catch as well as her heart beat do a double take. He heard her moved around on the bed and looked over his shoulder only to see that she had removed the robe from her arms and had laid back down to watch the show.

He turned back around to face her and she motioned for him to step closer. He did so and left her run her fingertips over his abs and down to beneath the waistband of his jeans. He was already hard and pressing again the fly of his jeans, but when her fingers dipped down behind his waistband he couldn't hold back the moan that had threatened to escape his throat.

Meredith removed her hand and Carmine stepped back again to continue with his strip show. He had no idea what he was doing so he started to mimic a dance he had seen a girl do on stage. The heat that rose up his neck was unexpected when he heard Meredith clap and whistle. He just smiled and slowly unbuttoned and unzipped his jeans. He continued to dance and sway leaving the jeans slid down his legs on their own. He stepped out of his jean with one foot and then tossed them toward Meredith with the other. He now stood as naked as the day he was born. He watched as Meredith motioned for him to spin around and he did so without argument or pause. She whistled and clapped again before motioning for him to come closer again.

Carmine strolled over and climbed on the bed straddling Mere's hips. He leaned down in a push up fashion keeping as much weight as possible off of Mere and kissed her softly and then push back up so he was kneeling once again.

Mere hadn't seen anything so amazing as the man that was right in front of her. She brought her hands up to his hips and then slid them forward but stopped before brushing over his erection. She looked up at him and saw the smile spread across his face. Continuing to look him in the eye she ran her hands up across his abs, then slid them back behind him and pulled him to her. She met him half way lips parted wanting, needing for things to go to the next step. She ached down low and had a feeling that ache wouldn't go away until he was buried deep inside her.

Carmine saw the need enter her eyes, could feel the want in her touch and her heart was beating fast but steady. He reached down to her center and gently inserted a finger, she was so wet, so ready. He withdrew and heard her whimper, he replace one finger with two and went a little deeper this time. He pulled back and stroked back in and this time she moved her hips to meet him. He withdrew his fingers again and brought them to his mouth to lick and taste her essence.

He wrapped his arms around her and rolled so she was now on top. He hadn't come here for this, he wouldn't turn it down, but it had to be her choice. He didn't have a condom and he had no idea if she did or if she was on birth control, so this next step was her choice. He pushed her up and held her there, he needed her attention even if it ruined the mood. "Meredith? Meredith listen to me. I want this, and I only want this with you, but the next step is yours. I didn't come here to do this, so I do not have any kind of protection. I'm tested a monthly being a paramedic and I know you haven't been with anyone in a long while, so if you want this you need to take that next step."

Did she want this? Did she trust him? Did she believe him? She understood what he was saying. It was her choice if she wanted to roll the dice with the possibility of getting pregnant. "If we happen to make a baby, will you be there, I'm not asking you to marry me, just to be in the child's life."

He didn't even have to think about the answer, "YES! Yes, I'll be there always."

Meredith didn't saying anything else, she just raised up on her knees and using her hand guided him to her center and then slid down over him all the while keeping eye contact. Once she felt she couldn't take anymore of him she smiled and slowly began to rock. She heard his moan and smiled even wider.

Soon he was holding her hips and had matched her pace, meeting her thrust for thrust. He watched her breasts bounce and thought to himself, 'that is something I'll never get tired of seeing.' He watched as her head went back and mouth sagged open and heard the sweet, sweet noises she made as she climaxed. He waited giving her time to enjoy it all. When she looked down at him he rolled her over and started his own pace and watched as a content cat-like smile appear on her face. He continued until he felt her tighten around him again, he knew she was close. As soon as he felt her go over he followed with one last thrust. It was with that last thrust came a split second of panic, somehow he knew that they had just created something beautiful.

They did get to the talking that Carmine had come over for, but it was much, much later. After he told her everything he had planned too, he gladly answered any and every question she had. After giving her a brief history of his family and everyone in it he informed her that she was invited to the family BBQ.

As he told her about everything that went on at the family BBQ, she snuggled and rested her head on his chest. It wasn't until he heard her light snoring that he had lost her long ago. He tightened his arm around her and gently palmed her breast and closed his eyes. Sleep wasn't something he normally did, but for some reason he had a feeling tonight would be his first good sleep in a long time.

Amazing Grace awoke Carmine, he took a moment to realize he was still in Meredith's bed. However, she was not. It wasn't until Amazing Grace started playing for the second time that he got out of bed and grabbed up his pants. When he saw that it was Donovan calling a chill went up his spine. He answered, "Donovan, what happen?" Donovan was the eldest of Murray kids, but he was the one that held them altogether and if Donovan was calling him something was wrong.

"You need to get to Lancaster General, Stella's been shot, she's in surgery. I need to call Owen yet." Donovan said.

"I'll tell Owen, we'll be as soon as possible. Thanks, Don." He hung up, tossed his phone on the bed and pulled his jeans on.

He was tying his boots when Meredith walked in wearing his shirt. At any other time he would have thrown her on the bed and had his way with her, but now he couldn't think of anything but Stella. "I'm gonna need to borrow your truck."

What Meredith saw in his eyes scared her, "What's wrong, what's happen?"

"Stella's been shot, I need to get to Owen, get our shift cover and head to Lancaster." He stood and said, "Can I have my shirt."

Meredith turned to the dresser and grabbed one of the extra large t-shirts from the draw and tossed it to him and then slid into pair of shorts. "Let's go." She said as she turned and headed back downstairs.

She slipped on her tennis shoes and grabbed the keys from the hook and tossed them to Carmine. "Here, just let me grab my purse. Call work, explain to them so they can get others to cover your shifts for a few days."

He was already dialing before she finished speaking. Dale picked up on the first ring. "Dale, I hate to do this to you, but Owen and I need a few days, our sister was shot. Don't tell Owen I'll take care of it when I get there." He hung up after getting Dale's okay and don't worry take all the time you need.

They made it to the firehouse in less than twenty minutes. When they pulled up Owen was outside. Meredith yelled at him, "Get in," and she opened the door before moving over next to Carmine. Once they were back on the road and headed to the hospital, Meredith turned to Owen, put her hand on his cheek and turned his head so he was looking at her. "I'm going to tell you something, but you must promise me you are going to stay calm, we can't afford to crash. Okay?" She waited for his nod of agreement before telling him. "Stella's been shot." She saw his hands clench and she covered the one closest to her with hers. "She's in surgery. We are heading there now. Donovan called about thirty minutes ago."

Once they arrived at the hospital and joined the rest of the family, Donovan filled them in on what he knew about Stella's condition and what had happen at the courthouse.

Stiofan had holding Opal as she cried. Not knowing what else to do Meredith sat down on the other side of Opal and took her free hand in hers and just held it. She brief looked over at Meredith and then turned her face back into her husband chest.

Meredith looked over at Stiofan and Opal and could help but feel their pain. Stiofan raised his head from his wife's and gave a slight nod to Meredith. Then he moved his hand to Meredith's shoulder and gave a pat and a squeeze.

Meredith gave Opal hand a squeeze before getting up and walking over to Carmine. "Is there anything I can do? Coffee? Tea?"

Carmine looked over at Meredith, "Not right now." He then realized how Mere must be feeling right about now. He turned to her and took her hands in his. "This must be awkward for you, if you want just go pick up whatever, no one in my family is picky on what they eat or drink, however I will suggest to bring back a couple large coffees."

Meredith smiled up at him and then leaned up and kissed his cheek and then whispered, "Not a problem," and then she walked out of the waiting room.

Meredith stopped at the nurses station to ask about the closest coffee shop. They politely informed her that there was one just up the block. She thanked the nurse and set out on in search of the place. Twenty minutes later she was on her way back to the hospital with two bags of assorted muffins, bagels, and danishes hanging from her arms and two trays of drinks, she opted for five large black coffees and three unsweetened hot teas. She was just about to stack the drinks so she could open the hospital door when a voiced asked, "Need a hand?" Without looking she said, "That would be very kind of you." The man who now stood alongside her relieved her of a tray of the drinks and opened the door for her.

"Colleges?" He asked.

"No, friends." Meredith said. She wasn't one for strangers. Once inside she motioned to take the other tray back.

"Lead on, Miss." The stranger held on to the tray and motioned for her to keep going.

Not wanting to cause a scene Meredith lead on. The man remained quiet the rest of the way to the waiting room. Before she could open the door the man did so waiting for her to enter in front of him. She did so with relief, she was among friends now. Just as she was about to say, I'm back, Carmine looked up and said, "Jaxon." She watched as they did that whole man hug thing. Then the name register, Jaxon, of course the missing brother.

"He's got four black coffees, I didn't know if anyone wanted sugar or cream so I had them put a handful of the to go packets in one of the bags. I have a coffee and three teas unsweetened. There are also a variety of muffins, bagels, and danishes in the bags." The brothers gathered around Jaxon so she figured they'd all be having coffee. She walked over to Stiofan and Opal and handed Stiofan the coffee. "Coffee, sir?"

"No need for sir, Meredith, and yes coffee is fine. Opal would love the tea. Could you put one packet of sugar in it though?" He asked and took the coffee from her.

Before sitting down Meredith asked if anyone would like something to eat. The brother all said thank you but not now. Stiofan said anything would do and a bagel for Opal. Meredith sat and handed over a muffin and then prepared Opal her tea. Opal still hadn't said anything, but she did give a little smile when she handed her the tea and again with the bagel.

Meredith placed the bags on the chair next to her with the remaining hot tea. Once she had prepared the her tea she walked over to the brothers. "I'm guess black coffee is fine with all of you?"

Owen replied, "Yes, thanks again Meredith."

"Any news on Stella?" She asked touching Carmine arm.

"No, just that they are still working on her." Carmine said and wrapped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close.

Opal looked up at her husband and whispered, "She's a keeper."

To Be Continued...

Part 4

Chapter 8

It seemed like hours before the doctor walked into the waiting room. When he did Donovan was first on his feet, taking charge. Meredith watched at as everyone else stayed near Opal and Stiofan. When the doctor left Donovan was back at his mother's feet. He took her hands from Stiofan's and said, "Stella made it thru surgery, she isn't awake yet, but is in the ICU." Opal leaned forward and wrapped her arms around her son's neck and cried once again. Donovan moved forward and wrapped his arms around his mother and just held her. Meredith reached over and started to rub Opal's back. Hours later a nurse informed them that Stella was a wake and that they could visit, no more than two at a time.

Meredith had just come along for support, this was a time for the family. She excused herself saying that she needed to use the restroom instead she made her way to the nurses station. She left a note with them and continued out of the hospital.

She sat in her truck along time debating if she should stay or go. She wanted to be there for Carmine, but he had his family there, she really wasn't needed. She looked over at the hospital one more time and started the engine. "You know where to find me, Carmine." She said and headed home.

It wasn't until it was his turn to visit his sister, that he realized Mere hadn't returned. He couldn't believe that she had just left, but the note that he held in his hand said just that. How could she feel she wasn't needed or appreciated at a time like this? He thanked the nurse and headed to his sister's room.

He stopped at the doorway and just looked at her for a moment. She laid there so quiet and peaceful. He wondered if she had fallen back to sleep. "Stella?" He said not once but twice before he saw her eyes open.

"Carmine, I was wondering if you were here." She raised her arm and motioned for him to come closer.

Carmine walked the short distance to his sister's side and then leaned down and kissed her forehead. "How do you feel?" He asked as he sat in the chair that had been pulled close.

"Like a target I would guess." Stella went to laugh and stopped with a wince. "Shouldn't laugh, but its the only thing keeping me going."

Carmine took her hand in his and ran his thumb over the back of her knuckles. "You've probably been asked this a million times, but any idea who did this?"

"Yes and I've already told Donovan, and no I'm not going to tell you. I need to keep some of my brothers from going off half cocked. Beside I'd bet Donovan and Jaxon have left already to pursue the people on the list and dad won't be far behind once he knows mom's okay." Stella closed her eyes as another round of pain coursed thru her. She waited until the pain was bearable before asking, "So, where's this Meredith person I've been hearing so much about. Mom said she was here, I thought she'd be with you?"

Carmine wasn't sure what to say, but in the end he went with the truth. "She decided she wasn't needed now that you were out of danger."

"Why didn't you stop her?"

"She didn't tell me she was leaving, she left a note with the nurses. I know where to find her and I'll take care of it, but I had to come see you with my own eyes." He said.

"Carmy, don't let her slip away. She doesn't even know your family all that well and she came with you. She's a keeper. Now go, I need to rest." And she closed her eyes but this time she had a smile on her face.

It had been along time since she had called him, Carmy. He stood and leaned over and kissed her forehead again before leaving. He stopped at the door and turned back and said, "Just so you know there's a guard at the door, Donovan's doing."

He stepped out and shut the door behind him. He turned to the large black man to the right of the door and said, "She wants to rest now." The man nodded and went back to doing the cross word puzzle in the local paper.

Carmine made his way back to the waiting room and after leaving Owen and his parents know that Stella was resting, he left saying he'd be back tomorrow. Before he reached the door, his father stopped him.

"Son, take my jeep, your mother and I plan to stay in town until Stella is discharged."

"Thanks dad." Carmine hugged his father and walked out the door.

It had been almost a week and Carmine had yet to get to talk with Meredith. He had taken the week off from work to make sure Stella was settled and protected at home. He knew he didn't need to be there, that Donovan had things covered. It hadn't surprised him at all when he pulled up to Stella's place the day after she was discharged from the hospital and there were security both inside and outside of her home. It also didn't surprise him that their parents had moved in as well. If anyone tried to get to Stella they were going to have one hell of a time doing it.

He had heard that the idiot had indeed tried to get to her at her home. Donovan's best guys as well as Jaxon was at the house that night. The guy didn't make it two steps in the house before he was stopped. It was just a good thing that it wasn't Jaxon that got to him first. The security guys had let the guys inside know that there was a suspicious person that had just went around to the back of the house. They had actually let him enter the house before taking him down.

Now that Stella was safe everyone could breath easier. Jaxon was still staying at her house until she was back one hundred percent. Their parents had returned to their own home but continued to call daily.

Carmine was sitting in Dark As Night when someone sat down alongside him. He didn't pay the person any mind and went on about drinking his beer in solitude or as solitude as one could with ones thoughts. It wasn't until he felt a hand on his shoulder and a voice saying, 'we need to talk' that he looked over at the person.

Being so dark in the bar it took awhile to make out who it was. And just as Carmine was about to asked who the fuck he was he realized who it was. He looked at the hand still lying on his shoulder before looking back up at the guy he now recognized as Sheldon. "Not here. Meet me at my place in ten." Carmine didn't say another word, just tossed down a few bills to cover his drinks and left.

Carmine sat on his steps waiting to see if Sheldon would show up. He wasn't disappointed when he saw his truck pull in and park. He wasn't sure what this was about, but he would bet a years pay that it involved Meredith. He stood as Sheldon got out of his truck and said, "Come on in." He went inside and grabbed two waters from the frig. When he heard the door open he said, "Have a seat."

They sat opposite of one another, Carmine passed a water to Sheldon and waited.

"How's Stella? Meredith said she was shot."

Well at least he knew where Meredith had been or he hoped. "She is still on the mend. Jaxon is staying with her. The guy was caught and is now in jail, he's looking at ten to fifteen."

"There's a lot of us that wanted to send our get well wishes, but didn't know where to send them. I told everyone to not even try to go to the hospital." Sheldon said.

"You were correct to say so, Donovan had security at her hospital room door with orders that only hospital personnel and family were allow in the room. If you and the others still want to send your wishes send them to her office and they will get to Stella." Carmine knew this was just small talk and not the main reason why Sheldon had wanted to talk. He would let Sheldon make that move.

"Good to know, I'll let the others know." There wasn't really anything else to talk about so it was time to get to the main reason he wanted to have a chat with Carmine. "What's going on between you and Meredith? She's been saying at my place. All she'll tell me is that she doesn't want to be alone out at her place."

Carmine wasn't one to kiss and tell, so that part of their relationship would remain hidden. "I'm not really sure. We were together when I got the news about Stella. Meredith even came with me to the hospital. She was very supportive to me and my family and once we heard that Stella made it thru surgery and was awake she just left without saying a word to anyone. I keep going by her place but she's never home, but as you said she's been staying at your place."

"Yes, well she went back home this afternoon, I told her I was going to have some guys over. I would have left her stay but these guy would have hit on her all night, something I felt she didn't need and we will be drinking and you know what can happen then. I have not told her about my shift-er side and I want to keep it that way for now."

Carmine didn't say anything, just sat there and was silent. He didn't know what to say, mainly because he didn't know what was bothering Mere.

Sheldon stood and said, "Carmine, go to her. She's been in love with you long before she knew who you were."

Carmine watched Sheldon walked out and listened as he went down the stairs. He didn't move until he heard the truck rumble to life. Meredith loved him, he thought as much, but he didn't know for sure. He also didn't know that it went back to that night in the alley. Sheldon hadn't said so, but he didn't have too. He had his suspicions, and Sheldon had just confirmed it.

Chapter 9

She was glad to be home, it was nice to have some friend time with Sheldon. Someone she could bleed her heart dry too, someone who wouldn't judge her, someone that could understand how she felt. However five days had been enough of Sheldon's time. She knew she could have stayed longer, but she didn't want to impede on his weekend with the guys.

Pulling up to her house she sat in her truck and just looked at it. She had bought it just after being attacked to get away from it all. She had wanted solitude then, to be completely alone, just the animals and herself. Time to mend, time to heal, and now it seemed all too much.

Avoiding going inside she headed to the barn. Without thinking she walked to Blaize's stall went inside and climbed on him bare back. Blaize intimated a lot of people, but he was the gentlest, sweetest horse around. She nudged him with her knees and slowly they left the barn. Once outside she leaned down, wrapped her arms around his neck and whispered, 'Run, Blaize, Run,' and she laid her head on his neck as he took off, first at a fast gallop, but as soon as they reached the field he opened up and ran with whole heart.

Meredith just held on and left the tears fall, she had needed this as much as Blaize. She didn't have to look up when Blaize finally stopped, she knew where they were, it was like he knew where she wanted to be. Mere stayed how she was for a long time. It wasn't until Blaize gave his annoy snort that she unwrapped herself from his neck and slid down off. She patted and stroked Blaize's neck before whispering, 'Thank you,' and walked down to the creek.

Meredith had removed her shoes and socks and was sitting on the creek bank with her feet in the creek, she needed the this time to herself. It wasn't long before she felt as she was being watched. She didn't move, she didn't even look up from the water, she simply said, "I know you're there, Carmine, I can feel you."

"How'd you know it was me? You aren't one of my kind." He said but didn't move from his spot, leaning against the tree behind her.

"The only other that would come looking for me would be Sheldon, but he has plans to be with his buddies. However, there is a vibe I get when you are around." She did say anymore, nor did she turn around.

"We need to talk, can we go back to the house?" He waited, but she didn't say anything.

After a while she stood and walked up the bank. She whistled and Blaize came prancing over to her and knelt down leaving Meredith climb onto his back. Blaize stood and found his footing before Meredith said, "The door will be unlocked, I know you can beat me there, but I'm asking to wait. Give me an hour before you walk thru the door." And she nudge Blaize and as one they took off toward home.

Carmine smiled and watched Meredith ride away. He didn't move until she was out of sight, then he slowly started to follow in the direct she had disappeared. It wouldn't take him an hour even walking to get back to the house, so when he came to the field of wild flowers he stopped and picked as much as he could hold in one hand. When he couldn't hold anymore he looked over what he had collected and smiled. The flowers he held made him smile again, they were so Meredith. Before continuing with his walk he removed the leather cord from his hair and fastened it around the stems of the flowers.

When he finally reached the house he stepped inside and listened a bit before heading to the kitchen. He stopped in the door way and watched as she danced around the kitchen to Everlast's Lonely Road. He couldn't help to think that it was a odd song to dance too, to him it was more of a toe tapper, either way he was enjoying the show.

He still stood there in the doorway when she turned around and a gasp left her lips and she stopped dancing. "How long have you been there?"

He stepped forward and handed her the wildflowers. "Long enough to know I liked what I was watching."

Meredith took the flowers bent down to get a mason jar from under the sink. After filling the jar with water she went to put the flower in and its then that she noticed the leather tie holding them together. She removed the tie and looked up at Carmine. She had never seem him with his long hair free flowing. "Turn around, please."

He wasn't sure why she wanted him to turned around, but he did anyway. "Okay" He heard her moved when she stood in front of him he smiled.

Meredith stretched up on tippy-toe and ran her hands up and over his chest and into his hair. She felt him shiver as she ran her hands thru his hair. His eyes closed and a low growl escaped his throat. "Why don't you wear it down like this more often?" She stepped back and looked up at him.

"Most of the time it gets in the way especially at work and I can't have that when I'm trying to save a person's life. If you want it down I can do that for you, I've just got so use to having it up that its one of the first things I do after waking up."

"I like it down." She handed him the leather tie and walked back around to arrange the flowers.

The afternoon was filled with questions from Meredith, with Carmine answering every single one of them. Even if they were questions she had asked before or in a different way. The only questions Carmine had were, why she left the hospital and if she would come to his family dinner the following weekend. He never got an answer to the second questions until he was standing on her porch saying his last good-bye.

"Carmine?" He stopped and turned back to her. She took a breath and said, "Yes, I'd love to join you at your family dinner." She smiled when she saw the lift to the corner of his lips in that sexy half smile he seemed to have perfected.

She watched him walk away and as he opened the door on his truck she yelled, "Just give me an hour notice so I can get ready." He waved his acknowledgment and left her standing there on the porch.

When she went back inside she heard her phone chime. She walked over to the coffee table and picked it up. It was from Carmine and it simple said: YES, I HEARD YOU. 1HR NOTICE. She simply replied with a thumbs up emoji.

Reaching the end of Mere's driveway Carmine stopped and called his mother.

"Hello, son."

"Mother, Meredith will be with me next weekend for the BBQ." He told her.

"Wonderful! Stella just left me know that she will be there as well, which means everyone will be there. She's very interested in meeting the woman that has captured her brother's heart."

Carmine couldn't help but groan, its all he needed Stella and Mere becoming good friends. "Okay mother, should we bring anything?"

"Just yourselves, son."

"Alright then, mother, I love you."

"Love you too, son."

He could help but smiled as he put his phone back in his pocket and pull out of Meredith's drive and headed home.

Meredith sat in her study going over some clients financial statements when her phone rang.

"Hello."

"I'm looking for a Ms. Meredith Frusciante would she happen to be available?" An unfamiliar voice asked.

Not many people had her number, so she remained cautious. "May I ask who'd calling and why?"

"Yes of course, my name is Alex Poggio, a friend of Sheldon Haus, he's actually the one that suggested I contact you. I'm in need of an accountant and would like to hire you if you are available."

She would have to contact Sheldon to verify before she gave her answer. "Is there a number I can reach you at? I need to go over my schedule and see if I can fit you in."

"Yes of course, you can reach me at: 7178491313 or my cell is: 7173131313."

"Thank you, Mr. Poggio. I'll be in touch."

She heard his return thanks and hung up only to pick it right back up to dial Sheldon. His phone rang twice before she heard his deep baritone voice answer.

"Sheldon, did you mention my services to a Mr. Alex Poggio?" She asked.

"Yes. Alex is a good guy his accountant just said he had an emergency out of state and didn't know when he'd be able to return. Sorry I should have asked you first, but Alex really is a good guy. I hope you don't mind."

"No, no, its alright. Just what kind of business does he run."

"He owns and runs the Dark As Night bar in York. I work there most nights as a bouncer."

"Thank you, Sheldon." Meredith hung up, satisfied with the information she had got from Sheldon. She would have to make a trip into town, but she pretty much wanted to get her hands on the books, because when someone gives the kind of excuse his ex-accountant has given it usually means they've skimmed money from the business and have decided they needed to move on.

Meredith had thought about Mr. Poggio and if she was gonna take on another client. Her mind was set, she wanted to meet him first before she let him know who she was and her decision.

She waited until ten before walking into Dark As Night. When she stepped thru the door she came face to face with Sheldon and instantly felt better and less nervous. He smiled at her but didn't say a word, so she walked up to his side and motioned for him to bend down. He took a look around once before leaning down to listen to what she had to say. "Is Mr. Poggio here tonight?"

Sheldon turned his head to whisper in her ear. "Yes, he's the big dude behind the bar, one else runs the bar just him. Sit to the far right and no one will bother you."

Before he could stand back up straight she kissed his cheek and said, "Thanks, you might need to drive me home later." She winked at him before heading to the area Sheldon had suggested where to sit.

She no sooner sat down and Mr. Poggio walked her way and asked what she was having. Deciding to keep things light, she needed to keep her wits about her, she told him a coke with a splash of jack. He nodded and walked way, returning seconds later with her order, sitting it down in front of her on with some nuts and napkins.

By closing time she had sipped her way thru five drinks and had a few conversations with Alex. Now she just needed an introduction. She was about to stand when Sheldon walked up alongside her.

"Well?" He asked.

"Yes and yes." She said figuring he was either asking if she was gonna take Alex as a client or that she needed to be drove home.

Sheldon sat down on the stool next to Meredith and called Alex over. "Hey man, come here for a minute." He waited until Alex had walked over. "Alex this is Meredith Frusciante."

Meredith extended her hand to Alex and he gently took it in his and shook in welcome. She looked up her new client. "So glad to meet you." She said with a smile.

"So glad you approve, I figured you'd come check out the place, I just didn't expect it to be so soon." Alex said as he leaned against the wall.

It was then that Meredith noticed that they were the only three left in the bar. A moment of fear grabbed a hold of her, until she felt Sheldon's hand on her thigh and then he gave it a little squeeze. She calmed herself and said, "If I could have the books I'll get out of your hair."

Without saying a word Alex walked away and thru the door behind the bar. A few minutes later he walked back out with a box. He set it down in front of her. "Here ya go, that's everything, receipts, bank statements and the books." He took notepad from his pocket and wrote down a few things before ripping the page from the pad and handing it to her. "This is everything you need to get into my bank account online. Please check everything, something doesn't feel right about Tom's sudden departure."

An hour later, Sheldon and Meredith walked out of the bar. He insisted that he drive her home even though she said she was fine. She told him he could stay the night on the way to her place, but he said he'd call a friend. After carrying the box inside Sheldon said he'd see her later and walked back outside with his phone to his ear.

Chapter 10

The work week had been a busy one as well as a very unhappy one. It seamed like everyday at lease one person died. The only good thing was that none of them died until they had reached the hospital. Carmine tried to not let it affect him, but sometimes it was just hard. He was really looking forward to the weekend. He needed to be surrounded by family.

They were just finishing up lunch when they got a call. Owen tossed some money on the table and with sandwiches and drinks in hand they jogged out to the rig. Carmine shoved the last bit of his sandwich in his mouth and jumped in the driver's seat.

When they arrived at the home the wife was standing at the door. Carmine grabbed a case and as he ran towards the house and up the steps he asked, "where are they?"

"My husband, he's upstairs, first door on the right." She said.

Carmine took the steps two at a time with Owen right behind him. The room on right turned out to be bedroom. They didn't see anything but then they heard what sounded like a moan. Then they saw the other door, they hurried over and saw the man, he was lying on the bathroom floor. His head was resting on a pillow. Carmine started talking to him, but only got moans and other noises from him. As they went to roll him onto the back board he began to convulse. All they could do was hold him still and wait it out. Once the convulsions stopped they left him on his side. They put the neck and head brace on him before moving him to the back board. Once he was strapped down Owen put and IV in and taped it down.

Once they had him ready they put the case on the stretcher and picked the man up and headed out. The wife had remained down stairs. Before they were halfway down the stairs she was back at the door holding it open. They pasted thru and continued to the rig, she ran past them and opened the back for them.

Once they had him settled on the gurney, Owen looked up at the wife that was still standing at the back of the rig. "You can ride with if you wish or you can follow in your own vehicle."

She didn't say anything put climbed in and shut the back doors before sitting to the side out-of-the-way. It was awhile before she said anything. "Thank you responding so quickly. I wanted to do more, but knew I shouldn't."

"Why is that madam?" Owen asked.

"I'm trained in the field, I'm a retired Army combat medic. Even in the Army we aren't suppose to tend to loved ones." She held out her hand and said, "Sergeant Major Lesley Scott."

"It's an honor to meet you, Sergeant Major. I'm Owen and driving is my brother Carmine. We should be arriving at the hospital shortly."

She just nodded, clasped her hands on her legs. When they arrived at the hospital, she opened the doors and stepped out-of-the-way, so they could get her husband out of the back of the rig. After the hospital staff wheeled her husband away she walked over to Owen and Carmine. She pulled them both into a hug and said, "Thank you both so very much," and kissed them both on the cheek before stepping back and walking into the hospital.

"You are very welcome, Sergeant Major." Owen said as they stood there and watched her walk away.

Carmine had called and gave her the hour notice she requested, there were only fifteen minutes left and she still wasn't sure what to wear. Looking at the dress she had on and all the clothes scattered across her bed, she just shook her head. She was startled when she heard Carmine yelling for her. She stepped out of her bedroom to the hallway and answered him, "I'll be right down." Out of time she slipped on the black flats, checked herself in the mirror one last time and headed downstairs.

Carmine turned and watched Meredith, he would really have to keep himself in check tonight. The little black number she was wearing would definitely turn some heads. He was glad that it was just gonna be family they would be with, because he was pretty sure he'd be busting heads otherwise.

She walked past him and grabbed her black shawl from the back of the couch. It didn't offer much coverage, but then Carmine already knew what lye beneath it. She walked up to him and threaded her arm threw his.

"All set, handsome." She said then leaned up and kissed his cheek.

All he said way, "K," and he led her outside and to his truck. He had actually given it a wash since he had time to kill before showing up at Meredith and he was still a little bit early.

Meredith was relieved when Carmine drive thru York. She had no idea where his parents lived, but was glad that they didn't live inside the city. She watched out the window in the side mirror as they left York behind them.

Twenty minutes later they pulled into an already full driveway, but there was just enough room for Carmine's truck. He parked and jumped out and hurried around to Meredith. As he was helping her down, they heard people approaching. Meredith smiled when she saw that it was Opal and she could only guess that the woman with her was Stella. She was no sooner out of the truck on her feet were on the ground that she was gathered up into Opal's arms.

Carmine was left to bring up the rear, which he was fine with, because the view in front of him was one he loved. The three most important women in his life walked ahead of him, arm in arm. When they all were in the house, him mother told him that the boys were in the back. He kissed his mother's cheek and said, "Anything I can do to help just yell." Before turning and joining the others he pull his sister into a bear hug and kissed her cheek.

Meredith watched the exchange of love between Carmine, Opal and Stella and when he went to walked away she grabbed his arm and stopped him. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him smack on the lips. She stepped back and smiled and said, "Now you can go."

Carmine just smiled and headed out back as he listened to his mother and sister giggle alongside Meredith. He wondered just how he was going to keep his distance until they could leave, because if he didn't he would end up laying her down and have his way with her. When he stepped out back he was welcomed and told to pull up a seat.

It was hours later and they were all sitting in the living room, catching up and talking about anything and everything. Stella was talking about a lawyer friend's case that he had just put away a rapist.

Meredith thought she could just sit there and be quiet and listen to Carmine and his family talk. Even when Stella had mentioned the rapist she was alright until she started giving the details. Meredith felt it building, she needed to get away, without saying anything she just got up and walked away.

Carmine heard Mere's heart rate pick up and before he could say anything she was walking away. Everyone stopped talking and watched her leave. He looked around and stopped on his sister. Keeping calm he asked, "Stella what were you talking about just now?"

"Just a friends case. Why?" she said.

"What exactly did you say?" He had a feeling what it was about but he needed to be sure before he went after Meredith.

"Just the Edward just put a rapist away."

Owen spoke up then and said, "Carmine, go, Meredith needs you. I'll explain."

Carmine stood and left in search of Meredith. As he left the living room he heard Owen being to tell everyone about that night in the alley.

Once he was away from the other, he stopped and listened and soon he heard Meredith's heart beat and followed it outside to his truck. She had climbed inside and curled up on the seat. He pulled her to him and into his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and left her head rest against his shoulder. His heart early broke when he felt her release and cried right there in his arms.

There was no way he was taking her back inside, not right now, so he carried her to the only place they could be alone. It wasn't far away, but they would be alone, so he made his way to the guess house. Reaching the door he punched in the code and the door popped open. He made his way inside an such the door behind them, making sure that it was shut before carrying Meredith thru the house and straight into the indoor pool. Holding her close he toed off his boots and tossed his phone on the chair nearby. He removed her shoes and then proceeded to step into the Jacuzzi. He lowered them both into the warm soothing water. Meredith's crying had reduced to a sniffle now and then, but she continued to cling to him. She didn't say anything, not even now when they were fully clothed and sitting in the Jacuzzi. She just snuggle closer, pressing her nose and lips to the side of his neck. He swallowed the moan threatening to escape his lips and just continued to hold her in silence.

It was sometime later that Meredith even moved. She knew that she should say something but she really didn't want to talk about it. She opened her eyes and finally took in where they were. She looked up into Carmine's eyes and whispered, "Let me go."

Carmine loosened his hold from around her and helped her stand between his legs. To his surprise a few minutes later Meredith got down on her knees and proceeded to unbutton his shirt. Once she finished with with the last button she push it from his shoulders and down his arms. He finished removing the shirt and tossed it over by the chair where his phone lye. Meredith leaned forward and started kissing his chest. She started at the base of his neck and made her way to his left nipple, pausing for a moment there and ran her tongue around his nipple a few times before making her way to the right one so she could repeat the process.

Carmine had push Meredith away so he could free himself from his jeans. He unbutton and unzipped leaving his jeans open so his already engorged clock had more room. He than turned his attention to Meredith and grab the bottom of her dress and slowly pulled it up her body and off over her head. He tossed it away in the same general direction as his shirt. He was surprised to see that she had gone without a bra and now stood in front of him in a pair of simple flower printed panties. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close so he could bury his face between her breasts.

Meredith couldn't stop the moan from escaping her lips as Carmine sucked her nipple into his mouth. She ran her hands up and down his back a few times before burying them into his hair.

Carmine brought his head up from her breast only to claim her mouth as his hands slipped under the waistband of her panties and pushed them down her hips. Once they were at her knees she finished removing them. When she was free of her panties she straddled his lap and lowered herself down onto him. She didn't move at all for a while just sat there enjoying how good it felt to be full and stretched. Slowly she began to move, Carmine brought his hands up to her waist supporting her in keeping her balance. He did what he could to ignore his own needs and left Meredith take what she needed. He felt her contract around him and a few seconds later watched her entire release. She slumped against him and wrapped her arms around his neck, kissed him on the lips and laid her head on his shoulder.

He wrapped her in his own arms and then slowly and carefully he stood and stepped out of the Jacuzzi. He carried her to the master bathroom, grabbed a towel and wrapped it around her the best he could before laying her down on the bed. He walked the short distance back to the bathroom and removed his jeans and boxer briefs. He grabbed a towel and fastened it around his waist as we walked back to Meredith. He stood there and smiled, Meredith had fallen asleep.

Instead of lying down next to her he covered her with other half of the bedding that she was laying on. Then he return to the pool area to retrieve his phone. He expected to find some texts and probably a missed call or two. He picked it up and saw he had one missed message. The only message was from Stella and it read: Mom says she'll bring over some food later. Is Meredith alright? I'm sorry Carmy, please let her know.

He walked into and sat down in the living room before replying: Tell mom not to bother, we'll come back to the house if we get hungry. Stella you did nothing wrong as I'm sure you are aware of, it's just something Meredith is still working thru. She's okay. She's resting right. He hit send and waited. A few seconds later an one word reply came: Okay.

Carmine silently made his way gathering up their wet clothes and placed them in the washing machine. He waited until he could put them in the dryer before returning to the bedroom. He laid down behind her and gathered her close and held her until she stirred a few minutes later.

Meredith felt warm and protected, she opened her eyes and looked around. She had no idea where she was and felt a wave of panic rise, but before she could say anything she heard Carmine say, "It's okay, No one else is here, it's just us. Are you feeling better." And then she felt his arm tighten around her waist.

Meredith rolled over to face the man that she loved with her whole heart. "Where are we?"

"In my parent's guest house." He said.

She placed her hand on his bare chest and asked shyly, "Did we, um..."

He silenced her with a finger to her lips before saying, "It's fine, Meredith. You needed a release, you only listened to your body."

"But, but what about you?" She asked.

"Don't worry about me, there is plenty of time for me. Are you hungry?" He said before lifting her head so he could kiss her.

She pulled back from the kiss and said, "Now that you mention it, yes I am.

"Stay here, I'll be right back." Carmine got up and went and retrieved their clothes from the dryer. When he got there the dryer had buzzed it last and shut down. He pulled Meredith's dress out and draped it over his shoulder before gathering the rest of their clothes and made his way back to the bedroom.

A few minutes later they were headed back to the main house. When they got there the only vehicles left in the driveway were Carmine's and Owen's. They walked in and followed the voices to the living room. The only one there was Opal.

"Your father and Owen will be back later, they went out for awhile." Opal said as she stood and turned toward them.

"We just came to say that we are going to leave." Carmine walked over and hugged his mother and whispered, "I'm afraid the bedding in the master bedroom needs washed. I put a clean set on but didn't get a chance to wash the dirty ones along with the towels."

Opal kissed him on the cheek and whispered back, "You two go ahead, I've got it."

Carmine walked back to Meredith, took her hand and they walked back out of the house and left.

Epilogue

( 6 Months Later )

Meredith sat waiting to be called back for her check up, remembering a night not too long ago... She had just returned home from seeing her doctor. She had just learned that she was indeed pregnant. She had been told that she was about seven weeks along. She didn't even have to guess when it happen, she knew...

She was so lost in thought that she missed the nurse calling her name. Carmine squeezed her hand and called her name. She turned and looked at him. "What?"

"It's time to go back, love." He said as he stood.

Meredith got up with his help, there was no doubt that she was pregnant her bell told anyone and everyone. The nurse led them back into a room and Carmine helped her up on the examining table then pull the chair over close, never letting go of her hand.

Meredith once again slipped back to that day... She had returned hope and stepped inside her house and stopped, because there in front of her was Carmine down on one knee with a jewelry box open. Before she could say anything he said, "Meredith Ann Frusciante, I have loved you for what seems like forever. I ask you now to be my wife, now and always." It was truly unexpected and surprising. She hadn't thought but for just a few seconds before jumping into his embrace and shouting, "Yes! Yes! Yes!" and then covered his face with kisses.

She was once again brought back from her memories by Carmine calling to her. "Yes?"

"Are you ready the nurse was just in and said that Mac will be in shortly."

They had chose Dr. Maquire Gibbs (Mac), not only because he was a friend of Carmine, but because he was best in the OB / GYN fields. He was also aware of just what Carmine was. He was the safest doctor to have no matter how you looked at it.

Meredith grabbed a hold of Carmine hand and said, "Ready." and smile at him.

Mac walked in and sat on the stool on the other side of Meredith before saying, "How's our momma to be? Ready to finally find out the sex of the baby?"

Carmine and Meredith looked at one another and then replied together, "Yes!"

Mac applied the ultrasound gel to Meredith bell and began his examination. The next few minutes passed in silence while Mac looked everything over. Once he was done he turned his attention back to Carmine and Meredith. "Everything looks good. Are you sure you want to know the sex?"

Again Carmine and Meredith answered together, "Yes!"

"Every well then, in about three months you will be the proud parents of a baby girl."

Meredith left out a short high squeal of delight. Carmine just nodded, smiled and said, "Thank you, Mac. You'll be available for the delivery, correct?"

"I will, as far as I know I have no other mothers due around that time and even if I do I'll be there for yours. Would you like a copy of the ultrasound?"

"Yes, please." Meredith said.

Mac hit a button and seconds later he handed the picture over to Meredith. He jotted down some notes in her file and then stood and stepped to the door. Before leaving he turned and said,

"Congratulations!"

The End

About the Author

Mae Nunnally lives in the small town of Kaufman, Texas with her husband Michael. They have no children, but do have one dog and one cat.

Besides writing Mae enjoys sitting down with some yarn and hooks and creating afghans and blankets as well as baby and toddler clothes. She also enjoys putting her feet up with a good book with the dog at her feet and the cat in her lap.

Author's Note

This is my first attempt at a paranormal romance. The Murray's are a family of shape-shifters and that is all I'm saying on that for I don't want to ruin the surprise. As of now I am not sure how many parts will be included in this short story series.

I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them. Let the mystery, intrigue and romance continue.
