

PRIVILEGED

J.M. DOWNEY

SOUTHERN ROSE PRESS

Copyright © 2015 by J.M. Downey

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed "Attention: Permissions Coordinator," at the address below.

Printed in the United States of America

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®)

Copyright © 2001 by Crossway,

a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

All rights reserved.

ESV Text Edition: 2011

**THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.**

A special thanks to Debbie Young-Danis for being an extra set eyes for my work.

Table of Contents

Book I

PROLOGUE

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Book II

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

PROLOGUE

Katie wrenched herself from Keith's embrace and headed towards the bathroom. Those tears staining his cheeks were fake - he had no soul. Every promise, every word spoken in love was nothing but a means to get what he wanted.

She walked into the large room filled with the sandalwood scent of his Creed Royal aftershave and closed the door behind her. The intense shaking grew, pouring through her as she grabbed a small leather bag resting on top of the sink. She opened it and found a pair of scissors he used to trim his bangs in between haircuts. Turning, she leaned her back against the sink, and closed her eyes. This was the only way to be free. All other means hadn't worked. Please forgive me.

She pressed the scissors to her wrist right above the vein and yanked it across in a swift motion. The blade sliced deep into her skin, sending searing pain through her.

She screamed, losing her balance and slipping onto the floor; her head banging hard against the sink. The large hot tub before her blurred in and out - darkness nipped around her mind. A pounding sound attacked the door, while wood fell to the floor. Her head was lifted until she could see nothing but Keith's piercing blue eyes full of tears.

"Katie."

His eyes faded from her vision, but she could still feel him clenching her too tight, like he always did. But luckily death was beyond his control.

ONE

Years earlier....

Katie tapped her pencil against her desk as the professor walked across the room, and placed a paper in front of a girl in her class. The girl buried her face into her hands, her shoulders slumping. The young man behind her shook his head and tossed his paper to the floor. The professor stepped over it and continued laying down his pronouncements.

Lord, please let mine be good. I need something good to happen. An 'A' would make things seem better. She looked around the class of students as she stroked a long tendril of hair, slightly yanking it. If she only had a friend. Several students turned and talked to their classmates, slapping hands in congratulations, or shrugging shoulders in mock defeat.

She bit hard on her bottom lip as her professor stepped in front of her. He smiled, his brown mustache twitching as it blended in with the faded coat he wore.

"Good job." He set her paper face down on her desk and walked away. She grabbed it, and flipped it over. A smile crossed her face as she focused on the bleeding red 'A.' Success. Maybe her 'A' could keep her company tonight.

"Wow," a feminine voice said. "You're one of the few smiling."

Katie lay the paper down, hiding it. She turned to a girl in her class, Angel, who always wore sorority shirts, and told of her exploits as if they were accomplishments.

"What did you get?" Katie asked.

Angel slid her paper into her notebook. "Not what you got."

"I'm sorry. Maybe next paper I can help you. I've always been good at writing."

Angel chuckled as she raised an eyebrow. "If you can get me a 'C', I'll buy you a new outfit. Maybe something that shows a little skin."

Katie looked down at the red buttoned-up blouse she wore. What was wrong with it?

"You're kind of pretty. And obviously smart," Angel said interrupting her thoughts. "Why aren't you in a sorority?"

Katie's cheeks warmed. "I don't know." Because she had heard too many rumors about sororities.

Angel bent her head to the side as if she was studying Katie. Her brown, straight tresses fell against her forehead. Maybe she was trying to figure out if she was good pledging material. "Want to come see the house, and meet some of the girls of AK?"

Katie smiled though she rubbed her sweaty palms together. The girl before her had a twinkle in her eyes, and an inviting smile as if she found Katie interesting. A warning flashed in her mind. One step off the path could lead to many more and sororities were not organizations for good Christian girls. But it was just a house, and looking at a house, didn't equal a commitment. No, this would give her a chance to get to know this girl - maybe they would click and become friends, and she would no longer have to spend her weekends alone with only her novels to keep her company. But should she befriend a non-Christian? Katie chewed on her bottom lip. Jesus did, so why not her. "Sure."

She picked up her books and followed Angel out of the classroom.

The two girls walked to a street that ran across the edge of campus, lined with thick oaks and other students strolling in various directions with books tucked under their arms. Angel explained to her the benefits of sisterhood, a way to find an anchor in this lonely world of college - a place full of listening ears, and comforting shoulders. But something nipped at the back of her mind - another warning.

Her mother had sat her down before she left for St. Mary's College and told her to stay away from the Greek clubs, join Campus Crusade or New Life instead. But no one at any of those places had reached out to her; though she had went to their meetings, sitting alone in the corner. No, the only person who had was the girl walking with her right now.

They walked up the marble steps of the four pillar white home. Oak trees shaded the yard and porch. Katie walked into the sorority house and her mouth dropped open. What richness. The cream and blue silk curtains matched perfectly the leather couches decorated with cream and blue silk pillows. A gold-rimmed fireplace added the perfect accent along with the gilt-framed paintings hanging on the wall. An oak staircase stood off to the side, inviting people to walk up its steps. How much did this place cost? What would it be like to be able to sit in this room all day reading? She walked around the room, studying the pictures of the girls on the wall. All wore pearls. These girls came from money. A world everyone dreamed of living in.

"Over here." Angel motioned for her to follow.

Her skin felt smooth, but not silky. Who was it that had the silky skin? Keith caressed the lower thigh of the bleached blonde who sat next to him. She bit on her fingertips, giving him a coy smile. She was too willing and he was too ready to take.

"I've wanted to see that movie," she said.

He raised his eyebrows. "I've got it at my apartment. You want to go watch it?"

The girl giggled. "Hmm, do you really want to watch it?"

"Maybe," he said, running his hand further up the girl's leg.

Footsteps directed his attention to the mostly shut door just in time to catch a glimpse of a black and red plaid skirt. Part of one long leg filtered through the crack. Interesting. Who was outside that door? He stood from the couch.

"What are you doing?" the blonde asked. Keith raised one finger to his lips as he tapped the door open just enough to reveal a beautiful brunette talking to Angel. He bit on the side of his lip. She was hot. The girl had long legs that reached from under her skirt. Her thighs were probably silky smooth instead of leathery from tanning too much. He followed her legs up, reaching her curvy hips. Nice. He liked curvy hips; they touched something primal in him. But that hair. He had never seen such long strands of chestnut curls that fell to the dip of her back in smooth rolling waves. He could run his hands through it all day and never get bored.

The girl turned just enough to reveal high cheekbones and full lush pink lips. She smiled and her whole face brightened. The girl was perfectly made and illuminated innocence. Her eyes shone with a lightness. There was no harsh slap of life in her face.

"Who's this girl, Becca?" Keith asked.

The blonde walked to him. She placed a hand on his shoulder and looked through the crack. "Probably a potential pledge."

"I want to meet her."

"What about me?" Becca crossed her arms. He didn't answer her until the girl and Angel left the other room.

"I'm done with you." He walked through the door.

He made for the door the girl and Angel had gone through and opened it. The room was empty. Keith looked up the staircase. He couldn't just follow her. He leaned against the staircase and listened but heard no one approaching. He looked at his watch. He needed to get to class before he was late. He'd have to ask Angel about her later.

Upstairs, Angel showed Katie around. "Pledging allows girls a chance to bond."

"I could never afford the dues," Katie said, wrapping her arms around her waist.

"Intelligent girls can receive scholarships. We take care of our own," Angel said. "We understand some of our girls have financial limitations, but we're not snobs and welcome all."

Katie nodded, a smile nipping at the edges of her lips. Hadn't she always heard rich girls were snobs? But Angel didn't seem like one. She seemed friendly. Maybe she had been looking in the wrong places for friends. Not one person in those Christian groups had asked her to hang out trying to get to know her like Angel.

Angel stepped in front of her. Her light brown hair swayed behind her. "There is a party tonight. You can meet many of the girls and decide if pledging is right for you."

"I don't know," Katie said. At the party there would be drinking and possibly drugs. What if some sleazy guy hit on her?

"Don't worry, it will be tame," Angel said. A smirk crossed her face. "I'll keep an eye on you. I know you're new to campus life."

Katie looked around the upstairs parlor, glancing at the tan furniture and the grand piano that stood in the corner. What could it hurt to go? She didn't have to do anything she didn't want. Jesus had dined with sinners and prostitutes. Maybe through her friendship, she could help lead Angel or someone else to Christ. And Angel had said the party would be tame. It didn't sound like she would have to worry about drinking and sleazy guys. No, she needed to stop being so legalistic about everything. "All right."

Angel clapped her hands in front of her. "Tonight will be fun."

TWO

The low lights could only cast a light gold shine through the thin veil of smoke. Katie took a deep breath and the scent of cigarettes filled her. She waved a hand in front of her face as the smoke traveled through her. A cough pushed from between her lips. Her hands flew to cover it.

Angel shook her head, chuckling. "Come duckling. You'll get used to it."

Angel led her through the crowd gathered for the party, introducing her to one person after another. The living room was packed with people, holding beers, drinking and swaying to the loud rap music on the screen. So many people here were some important person's child. The long list of senators' and CEOs' children amazed her although she knew Yale was populated with such people. The street and yard surrounding the house was packed with BMWs, Mercedes and Porsches. Cars she could only look at from a distance. St. Mary's was only the next city over. The two schools were so close the students often intermingled.

Angel grabbed a beer and a bottle of water. She passed the water to Katie and popped open the beer, taking a long sip. In the distance, a young man held the hand of a girl dressed in a skin-tight red dress as he led her up the stairs. They laughed and swayed, lost in their own world. This was not her definition of tame, but so far no one had tried pressuring her into anything; she was clearly fine and would be able to maintain a friendship with Angel without betraying her faith. Her mother was obviously wrong, but all she had done in school was study to be a nurse, and Katie needed more than academic stimulation. She glanced at the girl next to her with the inviting smile. No, she needed companionship and this girl provided her a chance for that.

Angel chuckled again and took Katie's hand, leading her to a leather couch. So many young men's eyes followed her. Did they find her beautiful or out of place in her plaid skirt and blouse that left a lot to the imagination? She sat next to Angel on the couch and took a small sip of her water. The cool liquid did nothing to moisten her dry throat.

"She's easy," Angel said, pointing to a girl off in the distance, who laughed and swayed against a blond haired boy's chest. "She'll find someone else tomorrow."

Katie nodded as a drum beat plummeted through the air, introducing a new song. She flinched - one hand squeezed the edge of the couch.

"You are out of your world, Puritan." Angel shook her head. "I've got a lot of teaching to do."

"Yea, I guess." Katie tapped the top of her bottle.

Some of the young men formed a circle and shouted out the lyrics. Gazing off in the distance, two of them called out, "Keith!"

She followed their gazes. A young man with dark brown hair that fell just over his forehead and was parted to the sides walked to the group holding a beer. Katie's mouth dropped open as something swelled in her. How handsome. Like an Abercrombie model. He had a perfectly formed face with high cheekbones, a strong jaw line and dark blue eyes. Tall and slender, with broad shoulders that displayed nothing but strength. Katie lowered her gaze and peeked at him from under lashes.

The rest of the men congregated around him as if he was the leader of the group. Maybe he had the most important father.

He shouted out a line from the song with the rest of the crowd as his untucked blue dress shirt flopped with his movements. His lips moved in a smooth, elegant rhythm.

"Who's that?" she asked Angel.

"That's Keith Wilkerson, future senator of New York," she said, rolling her eyes.

Katie chuckled.

Angel bent to her ear and whispered, "his father is the most powerful lawyer in the country and probably the world. But, he's a dog. I recommend staying away from him."

"Oh." Katie's stomach dropped. Her mother always warned her about boys like him. Best to push any future thoughts out of her mind.

"He and his friend Brandon...." Angel pointed to another boy in the group with cropped short brown hair. "Once got a whole pledge class drunk and talked them into stripping in front of the house."

Katie raised her eyebrows. "He's going to have some youthful indiscretions to explain away."

"His father will just make it all disappear." Angel snapped her fingers as if sin could be so easily dismissed. Only God could do that.

Katie looked at the handsome man and shook her head. What a pity. She would have loved to get to know him. He looked like the type of man she'd always dreamed of. One similar to the heroes in the romance novels standing behind a young woman in a bonnet. But those men had hearts for the Lord. Or at least they did by the end of the book.

The young man looked at her and their eyes locked, making her heart leap. Katie blinked. He smiled as if he was sending her a private message. Maybe he was. Keith left the group and walked towards them. Was he coming to speak to her? She reached for the couch and squeezed the cushion.

Dear Lord, he was. What would she say to him? How could she refute his attention? Her mother's words echoed in her mind: a pretty face didn't mean a pretty soul. Yes, ignore him like Angel said. She looked to the side as he stopped in front of her. If he said something she would speak in a few words as possible.

"Hey Angel," he said, his voice smooth and inviting.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Keith reach for Angel's hand. "Come dance with me, darling."

Angel's eyes lit up. She placed her hand in his and let him lead her back to the dance floor. Keith placed one hand on her hip, and stood as close to her as he could, holding the beer behind her shoulder and moving her hips in time with his as he continued to shout out the words.

Apparently, Angel didn't follow her own advice, but instead looked at Keith as if he was her groom. Katie shook her head, and glanced at the front door. Would Angel notice if she left? But that would be rude. Very rude. And one didn't leave a friend without at least saying goodbye. She'd just leave as soon as she was given the opportunity.

When the song ended, Keith turned back to the group of young men. Angel walked up to his side and placed her hand on his back, but he didn't even acknowledge her as he talked. He even stepped from her so her hand would drop. Katie chewed on her bottom lip, pulling it over her top teeth - the flavor of strawberry lip gloss filled her mouth. What kind of game was he playing with Angel? But Angel did say he was a player and he was playing her now. Would she be offended if Katie pulled her away from him before he hurt her? If she only knew the girl well enough to gauge how she'd react.

Keith chuckled at something and then glanced back at Katie, their eyes connecting again. Her stomach turned and her pulse quickened, as he once more gave her a sensuous smile that reached across his face. He took one long sip of his beer, and left the group making a beeline towards her. He was coming to her. This time for sure. Katie closed her eyes tight. Please Lord, give me strength. She opened her eyes just as Angel fled the room, swiping a hand across her face. He had hurt her badly. Now she had another reason to dismiss him. One didn't entertain men who hurt their friends.

Katie pushed on the couch to stand, but Keith sat beside her; his hand touched her shoulder, pushing her down and sending something sharp through her. His arm slipped on to the top of the couch just above her shoulders. He was so close the clean, fresh smell of his cologne floated around her. She took a deep breath and turned to face Keith and his sensuous smile. Oh Dear Lord, he looked better up close. Not a blemish covered his face. Small beads of sweat dripped from his forehead, and collected on his brow drawing out his dark blue eyes. Of all the girls here, he had noticed her, but his intentions couldn't be pure. Surely, a young man like him would marry a girl from a wealthy family.

"I'm Keith." He held out his hand.

Katie looked away towards the closed front door. She needed to follow her friend, but a pull she didn't understand kept her in her seat. Something smooth and cold ran against her cheek. His finger ran to her chin and stopped on the cleft, turning her gaze back to him. His eyes roamed her as if he studied every inch of her.

"What's your name, babe?"

"I was having a better time alone."

Keith laughed and looked up at the ceiling, shaking his head.

"What does your father do?" He touched a strand of her hair with his free hand and curled it around his finger.

Katie's cheeks warmed. "My father is a teacher, and my mother is a midwife," she mumbled out.

"So you got here on intelligence?"

Katie nodded.

Keith placed his hand on her shoulder and pulled her towards him, leaning into her. His embrace was strong, warm, and all too capturing. "I like intelligent women."

What did that mean? Her stomach churned. She could throw up at this moment.

"Your breath stinks."

He leaned in closer to her face, pulling her towards him as if he already owned her. "Get closer and you won't smell a thing."

She pressed her hands on his firm chest and pushed back. He leaned in towards her lips. "Come on, girls always let me steal a kiss."

But not her. She reached back and smacked him on the cheek. The sting permeated her hand. Pushing from his arms, she rushed out the front door.

Angel was nowhere around. Had she left her at the party? But why would she do that? Weren't they friends? But she had been crying and probably needed to get away quickly, thinking Katie was safe. She rushed towards the street that would lead her to her dorm.

"Hey babe, wait a second." She glanced back. Keith jogged towards her. She walked faster, focusing on the pavement.

"Hey, where you going?" he said, taking her arm.

She tugged her arm from him. "My dorm."

He arched his eyebrows. "You're going to walk?"

"Yeah."

He took a step closer to her, and stared straight into her eyes. "Pretty things like you shouldn't walk alone at night."

"I don't care." She crossed the street with him at her heels. She stopped and faced him when she got to the other side. "Keith, if you think I'm going to sleep with you; give up."

He bent his head to the side and dug his hands deep into his pockets. "I just want to walk you home."

She shook her head as she took off towards her dorm room with him following her every step. He tried to talk to her, but she ignored everything he said. She wanted him to leave, to get the hint, but then again there was something exciting, and satisfying about having a young man like him chasing after her like she was a precious princess he wanted to capture. She needed to stop reading those clean romance novels. He wanted one thing and would be gone tomorrow.

When she got to her dorm, she unlocked the front door as he leaned on the side of the building. She opened the door and turned to face him. "Bye, Keith."

"No thanks?"

She walked through the door, slamming it behind her. There was his thanks.

Through the window, Keith watched her walk up the stairs. She wasn't worth it. He turned to leave and made his way back across the St. Mary's campus. So the pretty little brunette went here. She didn't seem like Yale material. He dug his hands into his pockets. The girl had such pretty blue eyes. He loved the innocence in them. An experienced girl's eyes wouldn't have widened when he'd sat next to her. No, there was something special about that girl. He should try again and take a different approach. Every girl had a way he could reach them.

Once at the house, Keith got into his car. Brandon could find his own way home. He didn't feel like waiting around, so his friend could pick up some trash. He drove back to his apartment, clenching the steering wheel. His hands were starting to get jittery. He needed something and he needed it fast. That girl had unnerved him. If things had gone right, she would be next to him right now and tonight sleeping beside him. But he shouldn't have thought that. A girl with that much innocence in her eyes wouldn't have come home with him. She'd probably had sex once, and only with a steady boyfriend.

He drove up to the gated apartment. His hand shook as he punched in the number, tapping the steering wheel. The gate slid open and Keith sped through. He parked his car and raced up the steps to his apartment. If Brandon had used everything up, he'd kill him.

When he got to his apartment, he went to his bathroom, grabbed a black bag and sat on his bed. He took out a needle and a small bottle. He filled the needle halfway before tying the rubber around his arm. He should have been a doctor. The needle slid easily through his skin. Minutes passed and the jitters slipped from him. There, he should be fine. Tomorrow, he would find out who this girl was. He pushed himself from the bed and snatched the baseball bat from the side of the wall. A couple rounds at the batting cage would help.

He drove off to the cage, placed his Harvard crimson hat firmly on his head, letting it push his bangs down over his eyes. He heard the chant of the crowd, shouting his name, the roar when the runners came running in. He grimaced. It was for the best even if it wasn't his idea. His father knew what was right. Everything must be controlled – order must be maintained. People must live the lives they were born for and he was not born to be a ball player. But still just one second. Just one second more. He stood at the plate, hitting the pentagon on the ground before raising the bat over his shoulder. One, two, the ball flew at him and he smacked it into the net. It would have gone over the fence like they usually did. He had a deep drive to keep hitting, letting the passion play out. Maybe someday he'd bring that brunette out here and let her see how talented he was.

Katie went straight to her room, and sat on her bed, letting the lavender comforter enclose around her body. Every part of her rattled, her hands shaking. She placed a hand on her cheek. The heat permeated over her skin. Keith's dark blue eyes filled her mind. He would probably never talk to her again, finding her too much trouble. A small sense of loss filled her. Katie shook her head. She snatched up her cell phone and dialed Angel's number.

"Hello," Angel answered.

"I left the party," Katie said. "That jerk came up to me and started hitting on me, so I left to get away from him."

Angel laughed even though she could hear a trace of sadness in her voice.

"Did he hurt you once?" Katie asked, sitting up, and rubbing her stiff right leg. Maybe if she burned the tea tree candle her mother gave her she could calm down.

"No. Why do you ask that?"

"You just seemed hurt when he walked away from you."

"I don't care about Keith, but it's wise to stay away from him. He has a habit of sleeping with girls and acting like he doesn't know them the next day."

And she had been his next victim. Thankfully, Angel had warned her about him. "Why do girls keep sleeping with him?"

"Because he's handsome, rich, and he has this way of always convincing a girl that she is the most precious woman in the world."

"Huh, all I got was 'my breath doesn't stink if you get close.'" He must have thought that a girl wearing Target brand clothes would willingly lay down for him. Maybe now he wouldn't look at middle-class girls as easy conquests.

Angel chuckled. "Don't worry about Keith. He never works hard to get a girl in bed."

Katie ran a hand through her hair - sweat stuck at the edge of her forehead. For some reason Angel's words didn't fill her with relief but a sense of loss. Why did she want that fool to keep pursuing her? What pull did he have on her? "Well, that's good. I was a little worried since he insisted on walking me home."

"He did?" Angel said.

"Yeah." Katie sat up straighter. Angel's words startled her. Obviously, Keith didn't walk girls home, but why did he pursue her? A warmth heated up her cheeks and burned through her. Maybe he saw her as special - worth his time.

"I wonder why he did that." Angel paused for a moment. "Anyway, I got to study. I'll see you tomorrow, Katie."

Katie arched her brows. "Sure. See you later."

Katie placed the phone on her nightstand. Angel had to study. That sounded odd. That girl never cracked open a book. She was rushing Katie off the phone.

Katie kicked her shoes off and dismissed Keith from her mind. She grabbed a picture of her next-door neighbor and second-best friend, a boy she'd had a crush on her whole life. She placed it against her chest. Jeff wasn't as handsome as Keith, but his heart was pure. She could imagine them spending their lives together. Her as a kindergarten teacher shaping young lives, and him as a preacher guiding a small congregation. That was the life she imagined for herself, and no one like Keith Wilkerson was going to get in the way.

THREE

Keith opened the side door to the sorority house without knocking and walked in with Brandon following a step behind. Becca sat at the kitchen table, nibbling on a bagel. He scanned her body. She looked nice in her short jean skirt and little top. But she was forgettable. Too many bleached blondes in the world.

"Hey Becca, you look good in that outfit."

Becca rolled her eyes and looked at the chemistry book on the table. She was trying to ignore him, although the blush on her cheeks told him she couldn't.

"Go get Angel."

Becca stood and crossed her arms. "You could ask."

Keith smirked. She was being feisty.

"Whatever," she said and left.

Keith leaned against the counter and looked at the clock on the wall. Why did that pretty brunette have to be friends with Angel? Anyone else and this wouldn't be so unpleasant. He was tired of Angel. There was nothing special about the girl. Just someone to pass the time. But that brunette had a spark which made her innocence more enticing.

Angel came into the room, wearing a tight pair of jeans he once told her he liked. The jeans no longer fazed him. "Hey." Angel stopped in the middle of the kitchen, planting her hands on her hips.

"Hey pretty thing." He walked up to her and placed two hands on her hips making her blush. At least she was easy to control. He leaned her against the counter, knowing it would make her feel small and submissive. He pressed his body against hers. Not one bit of him responded. This would be the last time he needed her. "It was exciting seeing you last night." He kissed her cheek.

"What do you want?" she asked, when he moved his lips to her ear.

"What's that girl's name? The one you were sitting next to."

"I'm not telling you," she said through a laugh.

"Tell me, Angel." His lips trailed to her neck and down her shoulder. She sighed. He was chipping away her defenses. Just a little bit more and he'd have what he wanted.

"Why, so you can seduce her?"

"She won't be able to hold anything over you."

Angel pushed against his chest, but he held his ground. Heat coursed through him. He had no patience for this game. "Come on, Angel, you're messing with other people too."

"But...."

He lowered his forehead to hers and looked straight into her deep brown eyes void of any spark of intelligence. "Besides you know, you're the one I'm going to settle down with."

The pinkness of her skin deepened as he ran his thumb across her cheek and kissed her eyelids. He felt her melt against him. Now, if he could just get that brunette to do this. Wouldn't that be interesting?

"Her name is Katie, Katie Morris. I'll go get you her number."

Keith stepped back. "Thank you."

Her hips slightly swayed as she walked out of the room. She was trying to get his attention. He had seen her do that several times, but the motion made him want to look away. Angel would always be a girl guys used.

He turned to Brandon who had a smirk on his face. "The best thing I ever did was make that girl fall in love with me."

Brandon laughed. "I wish I could trick girls like that."

"All you have to do is halfway treat them like princesses."

Angel returned and handed Keith a piece of paper. "I included her dorm number." He folded it and put it in his dress shirt pocket. "Thank you." He took her hand. Angel smiled, pulled her hand from his and left. Not even a goodbye. Maybe she knew what was coming. He hadn't messed with her in a week, so if the twit had half a brain she'd know he was no longer interested.

Keith and Brandon walked out the door and Keith slid a finger over his IPhone. As they strolled to his car and dialed a number to a local florist. He placed an order for three-dozen roses and had them sent to Katie's dorm room. When the woman at the shop asked if he wanted to include a message he said, "write, 'sorry for being a drunken fool last night. Keith.' And put my number on it." By tonight she'd call him. A sweet girl like her was always touched by flowers.

Brandon talked on about some girl he spent the night with. A girl who his friend wouldn't remember tomorrow. Had Brandon ever run across a girl like Katie? He floated from girl to girl just like his friend, so why was she sticking in his mind? He had thought about her all night, imagining what thoughts lay behind those pretty eyes. How did she see him? Did he scare her? Why did he care?

Keith placed his elbow on the edge of the window, and leaned his cheek on the back of his fist, driving the car through the downtown area of New Haven. Tall oak trees decorated the road and shaded the businesses, competing with the baby sky scrapers. He had a feeling that if he ever got beyond a few words with the girl, things would be different. But how, was the question? She would want to get to know him – dive into places no one had ever been. She was the type. The Godly type that he always stayed away from. The ones who lined the student area of Yale handing out free pizzas, if you would just answer three questions. They would befriend you, invite you to their activities, convert you, and then move onto someone else.

He'd let her dive, although she wouldn't find what she was looking for. He'd let her find something else.

This was gross, but she needed something to chew on. She had already chewed up the back of a pen. Katie pulled the pencil out of her mouth and refocused on the history book spread across her desk. She curled her legs under her as she tried to find a comfortable position on the chair. If she could just get right all these Asian Monarchs she'd have another 'A' under her belt. Glancing at her laptop, she spotted the folder on her desktop named novels. She hadn't had a second to pull up one of her works and continue the heroine's story, helping her find her way to God as she fell into the arms of the hero. Maybe after this semester she'd have time to finish one of the many stories she had started. But she'd have to figure out an ending, and the endings were always the hardest. She could never find solutions to the heroine's problems. She giggled. What did her writing teacher say? "If you can't figure out the ending just kill the heroine." What a copout.

The sound of a knock made her flinch. She got up and went to the door, opening it. The color red filled her vision, and it took her a few seconds before she realized there was someone behind the mass of roses in front of her face.

"Ma'am, are you Katie Morris?" the delivery person asked.

"Yeah."

"Here, these are for you," the woman said as she handed Katie the roses.

"Thank you." She looked around the roses but the woman had already left.

Katie brought the roses into her room and placed them on her desk. She ran her fingers over the petals to a white card - the floral scent surrounding her. She picked it up, opened it, and read the message from Keith. Crumpling it, she threw it against the wall. She placed her hands on her hips. Who could have given him this number? Angel would have never given it to him.

FOUR

Every party must be covered in a thin layer of smoke. Was it just part of the decor? Katie took a small breath, inhaling the scent of cigarettes and folded her hands at her waist. The girls around her chatted about their latest adventures, talking about who they'd slept with as if they were male jocks in a locker room. So much for feminine piety. Katie bent her head to the side. Off in the corner, plastic red cups filled with PJ covered a table. Someone had placed a few condoms on it as a joke. Katie glanced at the clock. Only ten o'clock. Angel had called insisting this party would be better than the last, and she only came because she had spent the whole week hanging out with Angel, studying and watching chick flicks. The girl filled a void college had created in her and she didn't want to come off as judgmental on how her friend spent her Fridays. Before coming, she had spent time on her knees, praying that God would protect her from the temptation she might face. So far it had worked.

"Hello, how are you?"

Katie stiffened, and then relaxed. That didn't sound like Keith. She turned to the voice and smiled at the young man with deep brown eyes that were animated as his smile stretched across his face.

"Katie," Angel said. "This is Allen, a friend of mine."

"Nice to meet you." Katie held out her hand and shook Allen's. He held it like it was glass, their eyes connecting.

"How do you like Yale?" He smiled, showing her a perfect row of teeth.

Katie's face warmed. "Oh, I go to St. Mary's, but I...."

"St. Mary's - that is an excellent school. How are you liking it?"

"Well...."

"Keith just walked in," Angel said. The other girls in the group whispered to each other with deep fascination in their eyes. Everyone must be drawn to Keith.

"I wonder what he's up to tonight," one girl, in a tight, lime green dress said.

"Seeking another victim." Angel focused her attention on Katie with a sneer in her eyes.

Katie bit on her bottom lip. What was that about? Angel acted like she was sending her a warning to stay away, but not for her own good.

Katie turned in the direction of the girls' gazes. Keith walked to the cooler with a few beer bottles sticking out, surrounded by ice. The familiar heat spread through her. The dark blue shirt he wore brought out his eyes. His hair was slightly ruffled as if he'd rushed from his home. Keith lifted his eyes and she knew he saw her, but he dropped his gaze and walked away. He must have finally gotten the hint. Those flowers had sat on her desk all week, with the crumpled card next to it. Every second, she wanted to call him, to find out exactly why he sent them. But that was a book better left unopened.

"I guess he finally gave up," Angel said. She had lost the sneer, and a lightness entered her eyes.

"He's so annoying," Katie said.

"You know Keith?" Allen said.

"Yeah, he sent me flowers, and keeps pursuing me even though I made it clear I wasn't interested."

Allen chuckled and leaned his head back. "He's a Wilkerson. Wilkersons are too used to getting what they want."

Katie crossed her arms across her chest. "Well, he isn't getting me."

Keith glanced in Katie's direction. She looked so sweet, so simple, in the black knee length skirt, making her look even more innocent compared to the girls in tight dresses she stood with. The whole week he had waited by his phone, but this girl defied his logic and wouldn't pay attention to him. Briefly, she had glanced at him and briefly he'd thought she would smile, but she'd quickly looked away.

Keith ran a hand through his hair - the sweat sticking to his fingers. He had rushed from the batting cage when Brandon called saying Katie was at the party. But apparently all he would get to do was watch her from the corner of his eye - relishing her sweetness from afar since she wouldn't acknowledge him.

Angel and Katie left the group and walked towards the bathroom, down the long hallway, disappearing. Keith walked to the table and grabbed a beer. Twisting the cap off, he took a long sip, the harsh liquid slipped down his throat. At the end of the hallway, Katie leaned sideways on the wall - her long hair hiding her face as the curls flowed around her shoulder. No he wouldn't settle for just watching. Time to try a different approach. He set his beer down on a table and made his way to her.

He stopped behind her and took a long breath. The scent of strawberry floated around her. She even smelled of innocence. He placed a hand on her hip and leaned against the wall. Every part of him urged to scoot up behind her so he could dip his nose into her hair, inhaling its sweet scent, and feel her small form mold against his. But that would send her scurrying away, like a frightened mouse and keep him from achieving his goal. "Hey, pretty thing."

"Hello, Keith." She took a step from him making his hand drop. She turned to face him -- her beautiful eyes steady.

Keith chuckled. Those eyes held a challenge. "I just wanted to know if you got the flowers I sent you."

She crossed her arms over her chest. "Yeah, and I donated them to a hospital. I thought you wouldn't mind."

Keith's smile disappeared. "That was good of you." What was up with this girl? Perhaps, he couldn't play by the same rules. "You know, you would find out I'm a pretty nice guy, if you just got to know me. Won't you let me take you to dinner?"

Katie took a deep breath. "No."

Keith felt his heart drop. No. She had told him no. No girl ever told him no. He took a step closer to her and stared down into her eyes. He could make a girl melt with his. "Why not?"

She looked to the side as a slight blush covered her cheeks. "I'm just not interested."

Yes, she was. He was getting to her. Keith took a step closer. "Tell me and I'll leave you alone."

The blush deepened. "Look, you're just not my type. I'm not into rich boys."

He didn't believe her. Her eyes looked too uncertain. The challenge had fled from them. There was something else. "That's some classism you've got going on."

"It's how I feel."

"Well, Katie Morris, I hope you don't meet some guy who breaks your heart. I'd hate to see such a spirit crushed." Keith mockingly bowed and then walked away. Truth be told, he would kill anyone who hurt her. He would have to find some way to get her in his arms. She belonged there.

Katie leaned her head against the side of the wall again, wishing her cheeks would cool down. She must be blushing. His eyes were too captivating and he had been trying to use them against her. The door opened and Angel walked out, adjusting the glittering top she wore.

Her friend bent her head to the side. "What's up with you?"

Katie placed a hand on her cheek, feeling the heat. "Nothing, it's just hot in here."

"Yeah, whatever."

They walked back to the group. She stopped next to Allen and closed her eyes as she caught a whiff of his lemony-scented cologne. He bent to her ear, making her tremble as he whispered, "let's go get some coffee."

"I don't know." Katie bit on her bottom lip as something warm ran through her. "I like to get to know guys before I traipse off with them."

He nodded, and took a long sip of his water. "And that I can respect."

A smile slipped on her face. Something about this man intrigued her. Could it be because he showed respect to her unlike Keith, who kept pursuing her despite the fact she rebuffed him? Later on she'd have to ask Angel about him and if her friend proved what she hoped, she'd give this guy a chance. Katie turned back to her friend who focused on them, a slight smile on her face like she approved of Allen. It was so good to have a friend to trust.

Angel brought the mug to her lips and let the sweet scent of chai float around her – the mist warmed her face. Angel pushed a strand of hair out of her face and turned at the knock on the door. Must not be Keith. He thought he owned the place and would just walk in, sweeping any girl he wanted into his arms. Becca was lucky, he moved onto Katie before he dug into her taking what he wanted. Maybe he did own most of the girls in the house in one fashion or another. "Come in."

The door opened and Allen strode in.

"Hey, Angel," Allen said as he walked up to her and sat on a bar stool. Did he even sleep last night? He was still in the same boring grey dress shirt that was now wrinkled and untucked. His slacks had grass stains on them.

Angel looked at the creamy tea on the table, inhaling the cinnamon. A hundred dollar bill flashed in front of her. "What do you want?" She asked.

"Convince Katie Morris I'm a good guy, so she'll go out with me."

Angel laughed. "Why would I do that?"

"Because it'll drive Keith insane."

Angel spun around so she could stare into his eyes. "Will you sleep with her and ruin her?"

"Of course, but why such a sudden hate?" His smile became crooked.

Angel planted her hands on her knees. "I can't stand the way Keith fawns over her. Becca told me how they talked at the party. She didn't even mention it. I bet she's conniving for him."

Allen laughed. "Jealous. Well dear, do your part and I will willingly do mine."

She snapped the money from his hand and said, "I'll tell her you're a good missionary boy."

"Thanks." Allen patted her on the shoulder and left.

Angel laughed and clenched her phone. Thank God Allen had noticed Katie. He would get her in bed one way or another. She couldn't wait to see Katie's fresh tears pour down her face when Allen walked away, taking her innocence with him. Angel punched in Katie's number and waited for her to answer.

"Hey," she answered.

"You made an impression on Allen last night."

"I did?"

Angel rolled her eyes. She could push this girl wherever she wanted. Finally, she had some advantage over Keith. "He's a cool guy. I hope you don't mind, but I gave him your number."

"You think he's a cool guy?"

"I know he is. Allen and I are good friends. You should go out with him when he calls."

The end was silent for a second. "Okay." There was a slight hesitation in her voice.

She planted her hand on the table in front of her. "Look. I know you're worried. Allen's got morals. He stopped by to see me after church. So don't worry. He won't hurt you."

Katie chuckled. "Friend, you are really starting to be able to read me."

Angel shook her head. "You have no idea." This was going to be too fun to watch.

Katie stopped typing and closed her eyes, inhaling the scent of the tea-tree candle burning in the corner. Focus. Stay focused. She looked at the clock. The day was drifting from her. It was already 7 p.m., and she had hours of writing ahead of her in order to get her next English assignment written, but her mind kept slipping to Angel's phone call. Her friend had proven what she'd hoped about Allen's character. Was there a possibility a relationship could develop between them? Last night, he had seemed so interested in her, slipping with her to a couch in the corner and listening to her latest story ideas. Not once had he even tried to touch her. Unlike Keith who had no problems touching her hair or hips as if it was just a matter of time before she was his. A sigh escaped her as a heat spread through her. Why couldn't Keith have Allen's character? Then the dreams she'd last night of him and her lost in love could mesh with the reality, she faced when she woke up.

Katie's phone rang, breaking her thoughts. She picked it up and glanced at the unfamiliar number. It might be Keith. Katie set the phone down. Now what was it she was about to write? Her fingers dangled over the keys. It had something to do with.... The phone stopped ringing. Katie picked it up and listened to the message that was left. She smiled. Allen wanted to take her to dinner to a nice pizza restaurant downtown. Dinner would be special. She hugged the phone. Her first date. What should she wear?

She pulled up his number and returned the call. She couldn't wait to hear his voice.

"Must have just missed you," he answered.

"Yeah." She felt like giggling, but she contained them.

"Well, I'm glad you called back because I would love to take you for some pizza."

"Sounds yummy."

FIVE

Katie ran her fingers through her hair, trying to make every curl behave, a giggle escaping her lips. All week Allen had been taking her out to dinner, showing her a great time as if there was nothing else he would rather do. He didn't seem like the typical stereotype of a young man with money. He was kind, and had plans of serving in the Peace Corps. She hugged herself. What would it be like to be in Allen's arms? She closed her eyes, and stiffened. It wasn't Allen, she saw, but Keith.

She sighed. Why was she thinking of him? Because he was so dreadfully handsome; more handsome than Allen with his dark-blue eyes and dark hair. The guy invaded her thoughts. But it was just his looks. There was nothing appealing about his character. He fit every stereotype that Allen broke.

She sat on her bed, pushing her feet out in front of her, looking at the clock. It was 7:30 p.m. Time to go meet Allen downstairs. She pushed herself from the bed and flung the strap of her black purse over her shoulder. If she just concentrated on Allen's character, Keith would slip from her mind.

Katie looked around at the people at the party dancing in the middle of the living room or congregating in small groups while holding red plastic cups probably filled with beer. By now the faces were becoming familiar, and a couple girls came up and talked to her, taking her hands and complimenting the floral skirt she wore. Thankfully, Keith wasn't amongst the small crowd. Maybe they wouldn't be here long. She hadn't really wanted to come, but Allen had insisted after dinner. Every muscle in her body yearned to shut down. She had been studying a lot and longed to take a shower and slip under her warm sheets. She took Allen's hand. "I'm going to sit down for a second," she said.

A smirk slipped on Allen's face before he walked away. What was that look for? Katie sat on a couch, crossing her arms. He looked odd as if he had a different mind. She must be just seeing things. Allen came over to her and leaned on the couch \- his eyes clear, full of a sweetness. Yup, she was seeing things.

"Are you thirsty?" he asked.

"Can I have a Coke?"

He nodded and turned towards the drinks, stopping to talk to a group of men. He was in no hurry to help her. The Coke would keep her up, but hopefully not too late, she needed to finish a paper tomorrow. Katie leaned her head back and closed her eyes, letting her muscles shut down.

Something smooth slid across her cheek. She turned her head to the right as a form passed behind her. She turned her head to the left. Keith walked towards a cooler of beer and grabbed one - his black hair slicked back as if he just took a shower. Katie shook her foot back and forth as heat seared where he'd touched her. He wouldn't give up. Keith walked up to the group of young men - the seductive smile plastered on his face. Her body warmed just looking at him. If he was a decent fellow, she would fall for him in an instant since her body had no problem responding to his slightest touch.

She smiled as Allen made his way back towards her with her drink, but he stopped right next to Keith and started talking to him. Why was he talking to Keith? He said he didn't like him. Apparently, Keith could get all his enemies to befriend him. She shook her head again. How long were they going to be here?

Keith crossed his arms over his chest. He heard this conversation every time he went to a party. Everyone had an opinion on what Arther should do in regards to Syria. He always kept his mouth shut and let them spout off, acting as if they actually knew what they talked about, trying to impress him.

"Talking about your godfather again," Allen said, stopping next to him.

"Yeah." Keith looked over everyone's head, scanning the girls in tight dresses. Allen was worse than the rest, always challenging him as if they were in competition. There was no competition as far as he was concerned.

Allen dropped a pill into a cup, and swished the liquid around, dissolving the pill. A smirk crossed Keith's face. Allen always had to drug the girls to get laid. If his father wasn't so rich, that kid would have been behind bars years ago.

Allen held up the cup to the group. "Time to open the iron curtain."

Keith chuckled as Allen walked away. He was such a fool who was going to get burned one of these days. Maybe it would be soon.

Keith ran a thumb across his chin, wiping away the cool moisture the beer left - images of Katie flickering through his mind. He should try talking to her again. She looked so pretty tonight in her little white top and lavender tulip-covered skirt. He rubbed his fingers together recalling the silkiness of her hair.

"Hey Keith," Brandon said interrupting his thoughts and pointing behind him. Keith turned around. Allen sat next to Katie with his hand in her hair. His body stiffened as a heat grew in him. Allen was messing with the wrong girl. And the little fool just drank him in with those big bright eyes, looking at Allen as if he was some kind of god. Well, he'd let her take a couple more sips and she'd see.

Keith could feel everyone's stares on his back. They were probably wondering what he was going to do. Everyone but Allen knew he had claimed the girl. Katie took one more long sip, holding the cup on top of her lap. Her red lips glistened as she laughed at something Allen said.

Katie lifted the cup to her lips. Keith rushed to her and slapped the plastic cup out of her hand, sending it flying across the room and spilling the brown liquid on the floor.

The color left Katie's face as her mouth dropped open. She'd thank him later.

"What's your problem?" Allen shouted.

Keith grabbed Katie's arms and yanked her from the couch. He wrapped one arm tightly around her waist. Her small body trembled next to his. "This one is off limits."

Allen jumped to his feet. "Maybe to you."

Keith let go of Katie. In one swift motion, he pounded Allen across the chin, sending him to his knees. "Won't you shut up and think of who you're talking to."

Katie's hand flew to her mouth as Keith wrapped her in his arms and dragged her out of the house.

The cold air hit her dead in the face. She looked up at Keith's dark eyes as he walked her towards the steps. Where was he taking her? She needed to get away from him. She turned towards the door, but Keith pushed her forward to the first step. She pulled from him, stepping away. "What is your problem?"

"Pour your own drinks at parties, Katie." His face constricted into anger. "How could you, with all your morals, be such a fool?"

"What?"

"He drugged you."

"How do you know?"

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Because I saw him do it."

This was impossible. Tears brimmed at the corners of her eyes as a shiver raced through her. Allen was a nice guy. Not a rapist. Keith was. Allen wanted to work in the Peace Corps – make something of himself. She had sat next to him this weekend at church. "I don't believe you. You're just jealous."

"Katie." His voice was calmer as he took her face into his hands, wiping away a warm tear with his thumb. His eyes looked soft. Where had the anger gone? "Let me take you to your dorm, and we'll see if you make it awake. Okay."

"I'm not getting alone in a car with you." She turned from him and started to walk away. Her legs wobbled, making her clench onto the side of a post. Katie placed a hand on her forehead, feeling her burning skin. Something strange was happening. She felt as though she wasn't even in her own skin. The dark forms of the trees in front of her blurred in and out and mashed together. Keith wasn't lying.

"It's already working," he said. He stood right behind her with his hands on her hips. She needed to get away – to get back to her dorm. She would be safe there and she could wait out this strange drug.

Katie shook her head and took a couple steps, but the ground came towards her fast. His hands grabbed her waist and pulled her against his hard chest. Why couldn't she move her limbs? Every part of her felt like a weight. He lifted her in his strong arms, cradling her like a baby. The sky became darker, as her eyelids slid down over her eyes. Please God. Please, protect me.

SIX

Katie opened her heavy eyes. A yellow light blasted into them, blocking her vision. She blinked a couple times. It was a car light. What was going on? A black wool coat covered her. Katie rubbed the smooth fabric with her fingers. It must be made out of some kind of rich material. The strands were so delicate, like rose petals newly fallen to the ground.

"Do you believe me now?"

She tensed, turning to see Keith typing on a laptop. What was she doing with him in a car? His blue eyes held a glare to them as he focused on the screen of a laptop. Allen had drugged her. She placed a hand on her head, pressing hard as it all came back to her. The cup flying through the air. Brown liquid dropping everywhere as two large hands grasped her, yanking her to him. She closed her eyes and took several small breaths, but her nerves wouldn't settle. Why had Allen drugged her? He was going to rape her. She had been a fool.

"How long have I been asleep?" She pushed out as her fingers shook against her face.

"About an hour." He closed the black laptop and set it in the backseat.

"Thank you," she mumbled.

"You're welcome."

She pulled the coat off and handed it to Keith right before she turned to open the door.

"Hold on." Keith placed a hand on her shoulder. "You're probably still dizzy."

Katie leaned back against the seat as Keith got out and walked over to the passenger side. The door opened and Keith reached for her hand. She placed her hand in his, letting the large strong fingers enclose around hers. This hand had struck out for her - keeping her safe. She looked up at his mesmerizing blue eyes, full of a lightness as he helped her to her feet. His feelings for her must be strong to make him so protective.

Keith placed an arm firmly around her waist. She took two steps, but the building in front of her swirled. She fell back against his chest, her hands gripping his shoulder.

"Just rest a moment." His warm breath brushed against her forehead.

She nodded, and closed her eyes, leaning her head against his shoulder. It felt like a rock. A rock for her. Where would she be now if he hadn't taken such an interest in her? A shudder rolled over her. She would not think about that. But why would a guy who used women not have finished what Allen had started? His actions didn't mesh with what her friend had said and her friend had said Allen was the one to trust. What was going on?

She took a few more steps, leaning against his shoulder as they made their way into the building and to her room.

They stopped in front of the door. Maybe if she spent some time with him, she could judge his character better for herself instead of relying on someone else's word even if it was her friend's. "Would you like to come in?" she asked.

"Sure."

She unlocked the door. Once inside, Keith closed the door behind them. Katie turned to look at him, focusing on his blue eyes that had a soft touch to them. Maybe he wasn't what Angel said he was. He couldn't be. If he was, he would have taken advantage of her. A smile crossed her face as she took a few steps towards him and wrapped her arms around his neck. A warmness filled her as he circled his arms around her, pulling her close against his broad chest. She stood on her tiptoes and rested her chin on his shoulder. "Thank you for taking care of a girl who wouldn't give you the time of day."

Keith's hands immersed in her hair, sending strange sensations through her body. "Can I take you to dinner now?"

"Sure." She smiled.

Keith pulled her from him and kissed her head, making her close her eyes as a sigh escaped her. She looked up at him, and tried to find something to say, but all she could think of was her sister. "Would you like to see some pictures of my family?"

"Yeah," he said, his seductive smile spread across his face.

Katie took his hand and turned to sit on the bed, but his phone interrupted her. He slid it awake and looked at the number.

"Hey," he said and walked out the door, closing it behind him. What was going on? Katie stared at the door for a couple seconds before her curiosity got the best of her. She went to the door and pressed her ear against it.

"Just make sure your contribution gets to my godfather, and I won't say a thing."

His godfather? He must be talking about earlier, but what did he mean by contribution? It sounded like someone was buying his silence.

It was quiet for a second. "If she asks, I'll tell her that. Bye."

She took two quick steps from the door and sat on the bed before Keith opened the door.

He smiled, but a steel look filled his eyes. "That was Allen's father. He wanted me to tell you he's sorry for his son's actions, and that he won't be bothering you anymore."

Katie knit her brows. "We should call the cops. Don't you think?"

Keith clasped his hands together nodding and looking down as if lost in thought. "I don't know if you can prove what happened. The drug is out of your system by now, but we could...."

"Oh." Katie looked down at her fumbling hands. No, she wouldn't be able to. It would be their word against his since Keith had stopped Allen. Rape was too hard to prove. So many news stories detailed rapists getting away with their crimes. So how hard would it be to prove attempted rape? Impossible.

"Do you want me to?" Keith held up the phone.

Katie slowly shook her head. Again he was protecting her from what would be a painful experience.

Keith lowered the phone - the softness returning to his eyes. "Let's get your mind off of him and look at some pictures."

Katie nodded and reached under her bed for her picture album.

Keith sat next to her, slipping an arm around her waist. Did he realize how hot her skin burned? She imagined her face must be bright pink by this point. She opened the photo album. There was no way she would be able to concentrate with him so close.

The next morning Katie awoke with a smile on her face. She looked at the ceiling. That simple kiss on the cheek had been so sweet. How many more would he give her? She could quickly fall for this guy. His eyes were bewitching and his smile dangerously beautiful. She giggled and stretched her arms towards the ceiling as a yawn pushed from her. She had studied the gracefulness of his lips all night, feeling mesmerized. Her phone rang, making her flinch. She reached to the floor and picked up her phone. "Hello."

"I heard what happened. Are you okay?" Angel asked.

"Yeah, thanks to Keith."

"What?"

Katie sat up and pressed a hand to her head over the slight throb in her temple. "Look, what do you know?"

"Keith got jealous and punched Allen."

Katie closed her eyes as the memories from last night flooded her mind. She shook her head. She wouldn't focus on those right now. "Allen drugged me, Angel, and Keith kept him from taking advantage of me. I know this because I tried to get away from Keith, but I passed out." Katie paused. Angel's light breathing filled her ears. "Angel, Allen is a creep."

"I don't understand."

"Maybe Keith isn't that bad a guy."

"Maybe." Angel's voice dropped in tone.

Katie crossed her legs Indian-style, running a finger over a crease in her sheets. "He's taking me out to dinner tonight. Where do you think he'll take me?"

"I don't know. He never takes girls out, but I bet it will be somewhere nice. But listen, I would still be careful of Keith. He has hurt a lot of girls."

Katie shook her head. The guy Angel talked about didn't seem like the Keith she'd seen last night. He had spent the whole night comforting her, never asking for more than sitting next to her. Katie bent her head to the side. "Did he take advantage of a lot of your friends or something?"

"Whatever, Katie, you can believe me or not. But maybe you should ask around."

Katie took a deep breath as she clenched the phone. Angel was her friend, her only friend here and Keith really was an uncertainty. He might not be worth risking her friendship over, but what if.... She tapped her fingers on the quilt. "Angel, I'm just going to go out with him once to say thank you."

"Okay. Have fun."

After she said goodbye to Angel, she called Keith.

"Hey, pretty thing," Keith said when he answered.

The sound of his smooth voice dazed Katie for a second. A smile seeped across her face as an energy filled her. She swallowed, pushing a giggle back down. "Already put me in your phone?"

"Your number has been there since I got it from Angel."

"What? Angel gave you my number?" Katie clenched the comforter in her hand. Why would Angel do that? It didn't make sense. Katie lay back down on the bed, letting the lavender comforter raise around her, but she found no comfort from it. Could Angel be lying? Was she playing games because she was jealous of Keith's attention towards her? She could have told Katie a million falsehoods about Keith's character while leading her to someone who would rape her.

"Yeah, right after we first met. Does that bother you?"

"No," she lied. The little world she had built for herself seemed to be deconstructing as her friends and enemies switched places.

She focused as Keith began telling her about the restaurant he planned to take her to. The place sounded expensive. If Angel had lied about her phone number maybe Keith had never gotten her sorority sisters drunk. He could be a perfect gentleman.

"So, I'll pick you up at six." He broke into her thoughts.

"Yeah, that sounds nice."

"Then I'll see you then."

Katie said goodbye and hung up the phone. Tonight would give her some indicator of his character.

Katie clenched the sides of her blue cotton dress as she walked down the steps of her dorm. When she reached the bottom, she spotted Keith through the window — his back faced her, but she could tell he looked good in the black jacket and pants he wore.

A smile, just a little one, crossed her face. She tried to dismiss it, but it stayed as she opened the door and walked outside.

Keith turned and scanned her with his eyes, his face brightening. "Wow, you really are the prettiest girl."

Katie could no longer keep her smile small; it widened as Keith took her hands and kissed her cheek.

"Thank you," she said.

"No, thank you for finally letting me treat you nice."

Keith led her to his black BMW and opened the door. She slipped in and looked out the window as the car pulled away. Princesses rode in such cars.

When they walked into the restaurant, Katie let out a small gasp. Her gaze scanned the lace tablecloths and oak red tables. Candles accented fine silverware that surrounded china plates with red flowers painted on them. Two musicians played violins in a corner, creating a calm and romantic atmosphere. She took a deep breath and slowly let it out. Never in her life had she been to such a place.

The host dressed in a black suit approached them and offered to show them to a table.

She wrapped her arms around her waist. She had under-dressed compared to the women in their silk dresses and diamonds glittering on their necks.

Keith placed a hand on the small of her back and gave her a small nudge. She looked up at him and smiled. The host had left them behind. She let Keith guide her to the table and sat down after he pulled out a chair for her. Folding her fingers together, she squeezed - feeling the sweat on her palms.

He ordered a bottle of wine.

"Are you nervous?" He asked, reaching for her hand and caressing the top two fingers.

Was it that obvious? She gave him a tentative smile and then picked up the menu. Her eyes widened. Her father could never afford such a restaurant. What was she doing here? She tapped the bottom of the menu on the table.

The waiter returned and Keith ordered crab cakes.

"Katie," he said.

She looked up. He was holding up his wine glass, a small smile on his face as his eyes focused on her. She picked hers up, hoping he didn't notice how the glass shook.

Keith touched her glass with his. "To beginnings."

He took a sip of wine, but she just held hers, almost in a trance. She should just set the glass aside - maybe he wouldn't notice.

"Are you not going to take a sip?" He asked.

"I...." She looked around the room, trying to avoid his blue eyes that contained a lightness. Everyone drank from crystal wine glasses. "I don't believe in drinking alcohol."

"Why?" He knitted his brows, leaning forward.

"Because...." Her pastor and father said that drinking could lead to loss of judgment and well Jesus said it was wrong. She could tell him that but he would probably think such reasoning was silly. Of course, she wasn't 21 but he must know that. She'd just take a drink - one little sip couldn't hurt. Katie took a sip of the bitter liquid, squinting at the taste. Well that was a good reason not to like alcohol.

Keith chuckled and picked up the menu. "I hear the lamb is really good."

She looked at the menu. It was the second-most expensive thing, next to the filet mignon, but the chicken in orange sauce was the cheapest thing on the menu.

"I think I'll have the chicken in orange sauce."

Keith lowered the menu. "Have you had it before?"

She shook her head.

"Neither have I, but my sister said it's not good."

"You have a sister?" She bounced in her seat. What a nice turn of events. Her sister was her best friend, next to Jeff.

"Yeah, she comes down a lot because she's engaged to Brandon. You'll meet her soon."

"Well, I guess we have something in common."

"Yeah," he said as a smile crossed his face.

Something tingling broke through her nerves, making her feel light. That smile. It had such a disarming effect. When the waiter returned, she ordered the lamb while he got the filet mignon.

Katie nibbled on the popcorn and focused on the dark screen as it turned green. The warm salty butter melted over her tongue. She smiled as the image of a couple kissing appeared. What would it be like to be kissed? Keith slipped his arm around her shoulders. She closed her eyes and exhaled slowly, but her nerves wouldn't calm as Keith twirled a curl around his finger and snuggled her closer.

His arms made her feel so warm and cherished. She could stay in them forever. But could she? There was no indication he was a Christian. This relationship could go no further even if he made her feel so special. Something churned in her. But she wanted it to. She laid her head on his shoulder and concentrated on the fresh scent of his sandalwood-scented cologne, barely catching any of the movie she had wanted to see.

As the credits drew to a close, Keith bent to her ear. "Want to get some coffee at my place?"

Katie tensed. That was a major 'no' in her book. She turned to him - his breath warm on her face. "I'm tired."

He tilted his head to the side, his smile slipping across his face. "Maybe another night?"

Katie walked to her dorm building, with Keith at her heels. How was she going to say goodbye to him? She reached for her keys, feeling a hand on her arm, turning her around. Keith placed two hands on her hips, and bent to her face. Her hands flew to her mouth. She had never been kissed, and she had vowed to make sure her first came from someone special. He was special but was he special enough?

Keith smiled and pressed his warm lips to her hands, sending a tingling sensation throughout her. Maybe he was. If she had let him kiss her, she would have never been able to walk away. She stared into his blue eyes, as he leaned his forehead against hers.

"Can I see you tomorrow?" he asked.

She looked at the concrete sidewalk to avoid his blue eyes that made her melt. Those eyes were breaking through her defenses. "I don't know," she said even though every inch of her screamed yes.

"Why not?" He caressed her cheek.

His touch was too inviting. Katie bit on her bottom lip. She couldn't tell him the real reason. He would think she was silly. Best to tell him one that was realistic. "Because I have heard too many stories about you."

"Oh." He took a step back. The lightness to his face had disappeared. He pushed his lips into a thin line, highlighting the deep darkness in his eyes. "Who has told you stories?"

"Angel."

"Angel, who told you Allen was a great guy?"

Katie nodded.

The air fled from her as he took a step towards her and peered down into her eyes. Something about the blueness caught and held her still.

"And Allen would have raped you, if I hadn't stepped in?"

"But why would Angel lie to me?"

"I don't know. How well do you know her?"

"Keith, it's...."

He pulled her into a firm embrace, making her feel small and weak. "I think you're confused on who to trust. I had you passed out in my car. I could have done anything I wanted to you at that moment, but I didn't. Did I?"

"No." She lowered her gaze. She would have to find a better reason to deter him.

Keith touched her chin, lifting her eyes to his. "I like you."

And every part of her liked him too - responded to his smallest touch. "Want to study together?"

He smiled. "Sure."

"I'll see you tomorrow." She turned for the door.

"Sweet dreams." She heard as she ducked behind the door. Of course they would be. They would be full of him.

Katie ran to her room. Her heart raced in her chest as she stepped behind her door, leaning against it. What was she going to do? She closed her eyes. Why did he have to be so charming? And cute? A giggle escaped her lips. She walked to her desk and sat down, noticing that her phone display screen said she had three missed calls. She checked them. They were all from Angel wondering why she was out all night; and one reminded her to be careful of Keith. She didn't want to talk to Angel. Maybe tomorrow. Katie lay in her bed, stretching her feet out. Keith was amazing – someone who little girls dreamed of. But what was she going to do? Something had to be done. She couldn't keep seeing him.

Her roommate walked in, with a new guy behind her. The sound of her roommate's MP3 player filled the room, the loud drums and bass pouring from her speakers made objects vibrate. Katie bit down on her bottom lip, trying to hold in the scream. She shook her head and grabbed a pair of pajamas, heading to the bathroom. How could someone be so rude? She put on the pajamas and then headed to the dorm den to watch some TV. A commercial for a seminary school flowed across the screen. What was Jeff doing at Campbell University? Katie sat up from where she curled under a quilt on the couch. Jeff had the perfect solution. It was he who had asked her to sign the Purity Pledge during a youth group meeting. She should tell Keith her decision in order to see what he would say. A guy like him wouldn't wait around for a girl like her. That would chase him away.

Keith sat on the floor in the living room of his apartment with his head lowered over a small glass plate covered with cocaine. He brought the straw to his nose, took a quick sniff and then lowered his head back against the couch. His black pants and socks blurred a little as the door opened and Brandon strolled in with a girl under each arm.

"Hey," Brandon said.

Keith nodded.

"Thought we'd have a party." Brandon kissed the blonde and headed to his bedroom with her. The girl with shoulder-length brown hair and wearing a tight black dress walked over to Keith. She sat down, took the straw and began to snort.

Keith's gaze lowered to her chest, and he looked as far down her dress as he could. Not one bit of her enticed him. The tan flesh contrasted with the dress, looking tacky. But she had a nice form. Not as nice as Katie's. Katie. He wanted her here with him tonight. That girl would not come to his bed easily. This one would. "What's your name?" he asked.

"You can call me Alley."

"Alley? Is that not your real name?"

"Why should I tell you?" she said, her lips, curving into what was supposed to be a playful pout.

This girl was too experienced for that look to be effective. He really didn't care what her real name was. This was a girl he would forget the next day. But not Katie. She was calming, sweet. In some ways, she reminded him of his mother. He grimaced and refocused on the girl who wanted to be in his arms.

"Because...." He touched the edge of the fabric that rested against her chest.

She leaned forward, making his finger push into her skin. "Did I say you could touch me?"

"You're snorting my coke." He tugged at the neckline but stopped when he felt his nose began to run. Perfect. The blood wouldn't hold off. He stood, tipping his face towards the ceiling.

"What are you doing?" she asked.

"Just a bloody nose. I can't snort coke without getting one of these. It'll be gone in a second."

"Matthew Wilkerson's son has a weakness."

He laughed and walked to the bathroom. So everyone knew of his father. The man's reputation reached far. Katie probably hadn't heard of him. Did she even know of anything outside of her Bible?

Keith lowered his face over the sink, letting red blotches drip onto the porcelain. Alley had nice legs, but they looked leathery. Katie looked prettier in that floral cotton dress, that couldn't hide her curvy hips. He needed to stop thinking of her. But it would be useless. When he closed his eyes, he would see her smile. When he sat down he felt her absence next to him. The girl left an unshakable impression.

His nose cleared and he headed back to the girl. She sat on the couch, leaning back, her legs slightly opened. His lips curled in disgust. What a contrast. He shook his head and went to her.

SEVEN

Katie sat on the brick wall outside her dorm. The white blossoms from the trees that surrounded her temporary home fell to the ground, covering the sidewalk. A warm breeze crossed her face, making a few curls bounce against her cheeks. Keith would be there any second. He had called, wanting to study at his apartment, but she knew it would be wrong to be alone with him so she'd suggested a picnic. She shivered. He might be a nice guy, but still, anything could happen. One look at his blue eyes and she'd crumbled. How could someone be so handsome, like he was a Greek statue?

A black BMW pulled into the street in front of her dorm building. Katie bounced on her feet, as the warm feeling spread through her. She placed a hand on her cheek. Her mother always said a woman's face glowed in the presence of her beloved. Did hers?

The car stopped in front of her and Keith emerged from the driver's side, dressed in a dark blue untucked dress shirt and khakis. She shook her head. Even today, for a study date, she felt underdressed in jeans and a t-shirt. They came from two different worlds.

"Hey." He held up a bag of sandwiches and two bottles of Coke.

"You didn't get those at Subway."

"Nah, the Cornallia deli."

She knew the place he talked about. It was somewhere Angel had taken her once, and all she could afford was a plain ham sandwich and water.

Keith took her to a park in town. They sat on a blanket, and talked as Katie worked on a paper. Children raced in circles in front of them. Their laughter filled the air as a few birds flew overhead; their dark shapes standing out against the white clouds that filled the sky. Katie wiped a trickle of sweat from her brow and reached for her cup of lemonade. She took a few sips of the sharp liquid, letting it slip down her throat.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw Keith focus on her, his eyes roaming up and down her body. The whole date, she had caught him staring at her, studying her as if she was a painting to be admired.

She set the cup down and turned to him. A full smile stretched across his face as he took the pencil out from behind his ear, put it in the book and closed it. He leaned back on his hands. "Break time."

She chuckled. "We've only been working for an hour."

"I study best in spurts."

Mischief danced in his eyes. What was he thinking about? Katie closed her laptop and put it in between them. He better stay on his side.

"What do you want to do when you finish school?" Keith asked.

"I'm going to teach like my dad."

Keith nodded. "I can see it. But why?"

Katie shrugged her shoulders and leaned back. She wanted to be like her father. "My father knows how to mold people. He can just do it. Ever since I was young I've watched him take a troubled young man under his wings and help him find a path. So many became productive members of society, so I guess I want to mold young children's minds and...."

"You could always be a mother."

She laughed. "Women born of my mother don't just sit around popping out babies." No, her mother was first at ECU's nursing school and then she ran a successful midwife program. "My mom taught me that women were to be a man's partner, not his at-home help."

He chuckled. "With a mother like that, how did you become so timid?"

Katie rolled her eyes and looked at the floral blanket they sat on. White lilies covered it, reminding her of her plan. "I have another goal, I want to keep."

"What's that?"

Katie brought her knees close to her chest and wrapped her arms around her legs. The timing didn't feel right, like she was rushing things, but she wanted to get things over with, before she lost her nerve. "I want to be a virgin when I get married."

His eyes brightened. "You're a virgin?"

Katie looked out into the distance, slowly rocking back and forth. A child threw a ball over the head of another little boy, making him race after it. Keith was happy, maybe even excited.

"Why wait till marriage?" he asked, the tips of his lips pulling up into a tight smile.

"Because I only want to sleep with the one for me. And marriage is the only way to insure that."

Keith sat up and crossed his legs Indian-style. He looked at the white blossoms on the blanket she had brought. Completely pure just like her. He kept inviting her to his apartment for one reason and one reason only. One that she had never given and had no plans to. But that didn't mean she wouldn't. How long could he wait until he either wore her down or left her in rage? He looked at her light blue eyes and felt his body warm. He didn't care. There was something about her that drew him, like no other girl had. "Well, you know what you need to do," he said.

"What's that?"

"Only date guys who'll respect your decision."

"That is what I plan to do." She picked up the laptop, a sharp focus in her eyes.

Keith tilted his head to the side. "Katie, I'd respect your decision."

That should have brought a smile to her face, but she just looked at her laptop, tapping one of her fingers against it. "I mean it, Keith. I will dismiss you from my life if you try anything."

"You don't have to worry about me."

She knit her brows and turned to him. "How many people have you slept with?"

"Two," he answered. "And only girls I had serious relationships with."

She narrowed her eyes as they roamed over his face. He focused on keeping his eyes straight, just like how his father taught him. She smiled and her body relaxed. She believed him. "Katie, I wouldn't tell people you're virgin."

"Why? I'm not ashamed of it."

"Yeah, but virgins are a rarity." He bit down on the side of his lip. "You don't want the wrong guys preying on you. I'll have to keep punching people."

A blush appeared on her cheeks. "Break time is over." She opened her laptop and began working on her paper.

She was his.

Katie leaned her cheek into her hand, while the professor walked to the front of the room and began sorting through papers. Soon the lecture would begin. Her plan hadn't worked, but did it matter? Keith had only found her decision admirable. Another sign of his worthy character. Besides, the Bible said not to marry non-Christians; it didn't say anything about dating them. She bit down on her eraser, tasting rubber. What if she showed him the way to Jesus? She giggled with the thought of his warm breath hitting her face as he kissed her cheek. Yes, just like in the romance novels. A woman's strong Godly beliefs always impacted the hero and he would fall on his knees, begging God's forgiveness before asking for her hand in marriage.

"Hey, why haven't you called me back?" Angel sat next to her, breaking into her thoughts. Her brown hair was pushed back into a ponytail. Red blotches filled her cheeks, contrasting with the light green dress she wore.

Katie sat straight and clenched her textbook. "I was busy. I spent the whole weekend with Keith."

"I thought you were only going to go out with him once."

Katie shrugged. "I think he's a nice guy."

The redness spread across her friend's face as tears swelled in her eyes. "He sleeps with girls and dumps them. I've told you that. Is that your definition of nice?"

"I told him that I wanted to wait until I got married, and he said he was cool with that."

Angel laughed and turned to the front; a tear slipping from her eye.

Katie looked at her notebook. What was she going to do about this friendship? How could she be friends with someone she didn't trust? She would have to figure out something soon, especially since she had found someone more exciting to fill the void college had created in her. But there was one thing she wanted from Angel. The conversation between Keith and Allen's father nagged at her. "Angel, Allen's father called Keith and apologized for his son's actions. I don't understand why he didn't apologize to me."

Angel raised her eyebrows. "You have no idea who you're dating."

"Who is he?"

Angel turned around and stared straight into Katie's eyes as if she had the biggest secret to tell. "Allen's father called Keith because he doesn't want Mr. Wilkerson to be mad at him."

"Why?"

"Keith's father was the biggest contributor to the President's campaign. The two are like this." Angel held up two fingers, which were twisted together. "I once heard my father complain that the President wouldn't make a decision without consulting Mr. Wilkerson."

Katie's mouth fell open. She couldn't believe what she had heard, although she had recently met so many people with political connections. "I wonder why Keith didn't tell me that."

"I don't know. But that is why so many girls fall for him. They're all attracted to his connections."

"And he likes me." A smile seeped across her face.

Angel laughed, shaking her head. A couple students glanced their way. "Katie, you're stupid if you think he likes you. He's got his bride picked out. Her name is Ashley, and she lives in New York. He's just messing with you."

Tears swelled in Katie's eyes and she tried to say something but the professor stepped to the podium and began explaining the key points of argumentative writing.

Katie picked up her pencil and drew a circle on the crisp white paper. Was Angel telling her the truth? But she couldn't be. So many of the things she had told her proved to be mere myths the girl invented. There was only one way to find out. As soon as class was over, she would call Keith.

Once the lecture had finished, Katie grabbed her books and ran out the door before Angel could say something. When she got to her room, she slammed her door shut and called Keith. He wasn't there, but she left him a message, saying she really wanted to talk to him.

Katie lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling. Her history book was open on the floor. She had a test tomorrow, but she couldn't bring herself to study. None of it made sense. She doubted that Keith had a fiancée, since Angel's word was as reliable as the winter was hot. Yet, it still nagged at her. What if he did? Then that would mean he was just fooling with her. His show of affection was not genuine, and she was headed for a heartache. She bit on her fingernail, just as her phone rang. She snatched it from the bedside table and flipped it open. It was Keith.

"Hey," she said.

"I'm downstairs."

Katie hung up the phone, put her shoes on and was about to run downstairs when her phone rang again.

"Why did you hang up?" he asked.

"I'm on my way downstairs." She closed the phone. Her heart beat against her chest as she fled down the room. In a couple minutes she would have her answer. Please let it be no. She didn't want to face the hurt. She raced down the stairs and threw open the door, fixing her eyes on his face "Who's Ashley?" she said through a breath.

Keith didn't flinch, but stood there with his hands crossed in front of him – his brows knit. "Ashley Marriotti?"

"Who is she?"

"My ex. We broke up this summer." Keith didn't turn his eyes up or even twitch; he just stared straight at her. "I found out she had a girlfriend." The corner of his right lip tipped in a smirk.

"Oh." Katie looked at the sidewalk. He'd answered too quickly to be lying nor did he look away. Once again Angel's word proved to be false. What was she going to do about that friendship?

"Who told you about Ashley?" Keith asked.

Katie hid her hands behind her back and rubbed her fingers together. "Angel told me that you were going to marry her."

"I was. The only person I've talked to about this is Brandon, so Angel probably didn't know we broke up."

"Oh. I guess you were hurt."

"Nah, I knew the breakup was coming, so I got over her real fast."

She stared straight into his eyes. "Why didn't you tell me your father was close to the President?"

The corners of his mouth twitched and his eyes darken. "I guess Angel told you that, too."

Katie took a step back. He looked annoyed, maybe angry. Had she pushed too far? Was his connections an off-limit subject? She should have waited until he brought the subject up. "Yeah, why didn't you tell me?"

He smiled as the darkness fled his eyes. "Girls have a habit of being with a guy just because of his connections. I wanted you to like me for me."

A warmth filled her. She took his hands. "I'm glad I didn't know. I like spending time with you."

He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it, sending tingles all through her. "Want to get some dinner?" he asked.

Katie bit on her lip, chewing. She had a history test tomorrow, but she so wanted to spend time with him. She could always study later. "Sure."

Keith stroked her cheek, watching it redden. Her eyes were wide, wavering. The lamp light overhead flickered in them - highlighting the innocence. Better not try for the lips again. He leaned in and kissed her forehead. A giggle escaped from her lips. He should call her 'Bubbles.'

"Good night, Katie," he said.

"Good night." She turned for the door, slipping behind it as her hair swayed to the side. That girl was like candy. Way too sweet.

Keith walked to his car. Once in the driver's seat, he picked up his phone and dialed Angel's number. His free hand clenched the steering wheel, his fingertips drumming against it. Katie knew about his father. What else did she know? Probably little. Very few knew what lay behind that man's steel eyes. Not even his own family, or the people he bought.

Angel picked up on the third ring.

"Hey Keith," she said. Her voice dripped honey. She was probably pulling out her favorite piece of lingerie, hoping he was on his way.

"Listen whore, stop trying to screw things up for me."

"Keith," Angel cried out.

He bent his head to the side as a heat pushed through him. "Angel, you were easy sex, and that's all you'll ever be."

"You player," Angel shouted.

"You're the one that allowed it."

Keith hung up the phone and drove to his apartment, taking slow deep breaths, but he couldn't calm himself down. If she was here.... He squeezed the wheel. He would never. He wasn't his father. Another pair of blue eyes tinged with fear filled his mind. He pushed the thought away. He would think of Katie and those plump red lips. He'd claim them before too long. He just needed to find the right distraction and then she'd let him.

EIGHT

Keith stole a quick glance at Katie. She had a hand on her stomach and a slight blush on her cheeks, her innocence radiated from her. The red colored V-neck blouse she wore, made her red lips stand out. Every time he hovered over them, the scent of strawberry filled him, making him long to just steal a quick kiss.

"Full?" he asked.

She giggled. "You're going to get me fat, if you keep feeding me like this."

"Nah, we'll just start walking." He could hold her hand and caress her smooth skin with the back of his thumb during a walk. That would be nice. For two weeks, he had been throwing everything he could at her and for two weeks he had enjoyed every bit of it, although she allowed no more than a kiss on the cheek. Something was wrong with him. A mere girl wasn't supposed to make him crazy or accept things he normally wouldn't. Keith parked the car in front of her dorm. The night ended too quickly.

She placed a hand on his, making his skin grow warm. "My roommate said she'd be around tonight. Want to come up?"

"Sure," Keith responded.

They got out of the car and went inside. Katie stopped when they got to her door and puckered her nose. "What's that smell? It smells like puke or spoiled ham."

Keith shrugged his shoulders. He wasn't about to tell her, that her roommate was smoking pot. Katie was not going to want to stay, so he could take her to his apartment. He needed to thank her roommate later.

Katie opened the door and walked into a room full of smoke. She fanned the air in front of her face. Her roommate sat on her bed with a glass bowl to her face and her boyfriend sat on the floor in front of her. They both wore grungy black clothes and piercings covered their bodies.

Her roommate smirked. "Is that your pretty boy, Katie?"

"What are you doing?"

The girl started laughing. Keith placed his hand on her shoulder. "Let's go," he said.

Katie stormed out of the room. Keith followed and shut the door.

"I don't like her," Katie said.

"Where do you want to go?"

"I don't care." They walked out of her dorm. She went to his car and got in.

Katie sat with her arms crossed, a slight scowl on her brow. Keith started up the car's engine and drove away. When he pulled up to his apartment complex, he parked the car and said, "I didn't know where else to take you, so I brought you here."

Katie got out of the car. She didn't protest. That was interesting. He could have taken her to get tea, or something. She must realize that. Maybe she didn't care. Keith looked around the lot and noticed Brandon's car was not there. He reached into his pocket and rubbed the bag that held a gold bracelet.

"Want to take a walk, so you can cool down?"

Katie nodded. Keith took her hand and they walked down the street. His other hand still held the bag. He began telling her a story about a case his father's firm was working on until he stopped in front of a streetlight that cast a gold shine around her making her look like an angel. She turned to him as he took her wrist and slipped on the bracelet.

Her eyes startled and then lightened as a smile crossed her face. "Keith, I...."

"I think it looks really pretty on you."

"Thank you. It is pretty." Keith wrapped one arm around her back and pulled her close to him. The light of the street lamp flickered in her eyes, making them sparkle.

Keith placed two fingers on her chin and lifted her face as he bent down and barely touched her lips; immediately a shock ran through his body and for the first time, he felt lightheaded kissing a girl.

Keith pulled from her. "I really like you."

She brought his free hand to her lips and kissed it. "I really like you, too."

Keith smiled before he smashed his lips against hers, soaking in the taste of her strawberry lip-gloss. His body became alive and he felt emotions he didn't realize existed. It wasn't lust, a feeling he knew too well, but something different. He pulled back from her. A full blush covered her face as she trembled in his arms.

"Let's go back to my apartment."

Again she didn't protest.

They went back to his apartment and sat on the couch. She snuggled up on his shoulder as he flipped through the channels until he settled on an action movie playing on HBO. A yawn escaped from her light red lips. Her lip gloss had been smeared to the right from the pressure of his kiss. He reached to it and wiped the stain away. Her lashes fluttered open as a smile crossed her face. Did she realize how beautiful she was? The candlelight flickered in her light blue eyes, making them look like blue diamonds. He would have to make sure he told her. The movie dragged on and soon her eyes drooped close and her breath flowed from her in a smooth rhythm. Her wisp of a body curved against his. He clenched the side of the couch. Every part of him wanted to run a finger over her hips, trailing under her shirt, but that would send her flying from his arms.

With grass stains on his pants and hair pushed in various directions, Brandon stumbled into the apartment, clutching a beer. "Man, that was a great party."

Keith placed a finger against his lips.

Brandon sat in a chair, his eyes trailing over them. "Take her to your bedroom."

Keith shook his head. "She'd get mad."

Brandon raised his eyebrows. "You're whipped," he slurred out.

Keith pulled the blanket more over her shoulders. "I'm not whipped."

Brandon stood and placed the beer on the coffee table. "Are you going to keep her on the couch?"

"I'll probably stay out here with her."

"You're whipped." Brandon stumbled to his room.

Keith laughed. Maybe he was a little whipped. He caressed her cheek. His finger ran down her neck and stopped on her shoulder. Women were most vulnerable when they slept. He slipped his hand under the blanket and let his finger rest at the top of the shirt's neckline. He could go further, but what if she woke up? He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her onto his lap. He wouldn't risk it. Not with her. She was too special to him.

Katie walked into the sorority house, rotating the bracelet around her wrist. It had such a pretty engraved flower design that flowed over the smooth piece of jewelry. Angel sat at the kitchen table, waiting for her - her shoulder-length tresses fell across her face as she chewed on a pencil. She should have left the bracelet at her dorm, since Angel was obviously jealous of her and Keith. Every night, she called asking for full details in regards to the relationship and all Katie would ever say was she hadn't slept with him. Angel needed to accept the fact that they were a couple. Keith had made it clear to her that he never had a relationship with Angel and she just had some jealousy issues.

"What's got you so happy?" Angel said.

Katie sat down next to her at the kitchen table, cluttered with coffee mugs and plates. She placed her book bag on the floor next to her. Let's see what she says about this.

"Look." Katie held out her arm, letting the bracelet dangle on her wrist. "Keith gave it to me."

Angel's eyes filled with tears - her chest rose and fell with each deep breath. "I don't know if I can be friends with you."

"What?" Katie bent her head to the side - scrunching up her lips.

"You think you're real special just because Keith's paying attention to you."

"I just wanted you to see the bracelet. I think you have some issues to work through."

The girl laughed, looking at the ceiling as a tear slipped down her face. "He's just trying to get you in bed."

Katie pushed from her seat and planted her hands on the table, glaring at Angel. What was her problem? Couldn't she understand Keith had chosen someone besides her? "You're just jealous. I know you like him and you can't accept the fact that he has no interest in you."

Angel jabbed her finger at the door. "Get out!"

Tears swelled in Katie's eyes as she rushed out the door.

"He will dump you if you don't sleep with him."

Katie stopped dead in her tracks. "No, he won't," she yelled back. She walked out the door, slamming it. A few tears fell down her heated cheeks as a deep pain sliced through her. Why did she want to cry over someone like Angel? Yes, the girl had been her only friend, but she couldn't keep being friends with someone who wanted her boyfriend and told her so many lies. She had Keith now. She just needed to focus on him.

Katie went straight to her dorm. When she got there, her roommate was on the bed with her boyfriend. The puking smell filled the air. She looked at her bed and noticed her history book. She needed to study, but there was no way she could. She needed to talk to someone, to let out everything she was feeling. Picking up her phone, she walked out of her room and leaned against the wall. Katie punched in Keith's number. He'd help her feel better.

"Hey, pretty thing," he answered.

"Hey."

"What's wrong?"

"What are you doing?" She took a deep breath, but a few tears still slipped out. The sound of his voice sounded so smooth, so caring. Maybe he wouldn't mind holding her and caressing her back. Her body tingled all over just thinking about it.

"Just watching a game. Where are you at?"

"My dorm."

"I'll be there in a second."

Katie leaned her head against the wall and closed her eyes. Just like in the novels, he would show up and make her day better.

Keith lay on the couch with the brunette tucked under his arms, asleep. He pushed her off of him and stood. Study date must not have gone well. Good. He wanted Angel out of her life. He walked to his room. He used to take girls to his bed, but since Katie's been around, he stopped. It just didn't seem right. There was only one girl he wanted there. Though he couldn't quite figure out how to get her there.

In his bedroom, Keith dressed, fixed his hair and put on cologne, hoping it would cover the smell of the brunette. He left his room and made his way to the front door.

"Where you going?" the brunette asked.

She lay on the couch, staring at him with a smirk on her face. "I think it's time you went home."

The girl just laughed as she rolled over on her back, revealing her over-tan body. "You don't live up to the hype. I've met better lovers."

Keith slammed the door behind him as he left. Whatever. There was nothing appealing about a slut. That was the problem. He had no interest in her. Then why did he keep sleeping with her, while trying to get things over as fast as he could? He shook his head. It was getting cold in Connecticut, so he grabbed his coat from the back seat of the car and put it on. He needed to get to Katie and stop worrying about a girl whose name he couldn't even recall.

He pulled outside of her dorm. She looked so cute tucked away in her lavender coat, her hair pulled into a ponytail with a lavender knit cap pushed over her head. Where did girls like her come from?

The smile on her face contrasted with the red circles around her eyes. She opened the passenger side and slipped into the seat. She leaned over to kiss his cheek, but he turned, catching her lips.

Waving a finger in front of his face, she sat back. "Shouldn't steal kisses."

"Why not?" A smirk crossed his face.

She looked away.

"What's up?" He asked, caressing her pale silky cheek.

Katie crossed her arms over her chest, showing him a believable pout. "Angel and I are not friends anymore."

"Good, I never liked her." He turned the car on and drove off. Now he didn't have to worry about what Angel might tell her. He should find her some friends who would do nothing but sing his praises, but he couldn't think of one girl he could introduce her to who she'd like. He'd just leave that be. Besides, she had him.

"Yeah. I bet you are. I am in a way too. Everybody is so different up here." Katie slouched back in her seat and curled her legs to her chest.

"Not really. Am I different than any other guy you've ever known?"

She raised her eyebrows.

A chuckle escaped him. "What's that look for?"

Her eyes took on a faraway look as if she was day-dreaming of something. Keith focused on the road. The yellow line on the pavement got swept under his car. What could she be thinking about? They were from different worlds. Him born to money and power and her a sweet southern belle. But it didn't matter.

"What's the President like?" she asked, breaking into his thoughts.

"Like he appears on the television."

"Are you close to him?"

"He's my godfather. In fact, I was named after him."

Her eyes widened. "Your real name is William?"

"William Matthew Wilkerson. People call me Keith because when I was born, Arther thought I looked like a fighter, so he started calling me Keith since it means warrior in Gaelic. I guess the name just stuck." Keith paused for a second. How much more should he tell her about the relationship? Not more than they are close. "When you meet Arther, you'll hear him call me his son. He does that because I spent just as much time with him as a kid as my own parents."

She leaned her face against the window - the sun that bounced off the clear glass highlighted the water that pooled in her eyes. He needed to find something to make her happy. "Let's go to the mall.

She smiled. "Sure."

NINE

Katie sat on the bed as Keith searched for a song on her laptop. His black long-sleeve Yankee t-shirt stretched across his skin, hinting at the muscles underneath. Someday she would have to run her fingers over his shoulders, touching his skin. Just the thought made her tingle all over. They had just returned from dinner and here he was alone in her room. She kicked her feet out in front of her. Keith was a nice guy. He never did anything he shouldn't.

He clicked on one. 'Red, Red Wine,' began to play.

"How romantic," Katie said as she stood and held out her hands for him.

Keith sang the words as his sensuous smile stretched across his face. His voice was smooth and held the pitch so well. Was there anything less than perfect about him? "Dance with me."

"Okay." She took his right hand as he placed the other on her back, sending strange little shocks through her. She stared deep into his eyes, connecting with him. Man, she was falling hard. He guided her hips with his as he moved about with a bounce in his step. The music ended and Katie stepped back, taking both of his hands. "You dance well."

"It's not hard to dance with such a beautiful girl."

Her cheeks warmed. "Really."

"Yeah," he said, biting on the side of his bottom lip.

A new song began to play. 'If you could only see.'

"I love this song," he said, bending to kiss her head.

"I like it too." A giggle rose in her as his lips moved to her cheek, his warm breath making her feel alive and wanted. This was intense. And dangerous. She took a step back, but he followed her, catching her lips with his. She kissed him back, letting it deepen while the music floated through her. This was her man. There was nothing wrong with giving him a little attention. Just not too much. She placed her hands on his chest, sliding her fingers to his shoulders as he pulled her close in a tight hold. Something changed. She couldn't place a finger on it, but his kiss was more fierce, seeking her lips as if he wanted to devour them.

"Keith."

With one quick step he pushed her back against the wall of her dorm room. His firm chest pressed against her. Her eyes pop open wide. His hand sought her hip, caressing it as it slipped under her shirt, touching the skin as every part of her stiffened, but pleased at the same time. His tongue slipped in between her lips. Her blood raced through her, making her tremble as she rushed to meet his kiss. Her mother never told how a kiss could make one feel so powerful, and cherished as two connected.

His fingers trailed up her body. No. She grabbed his hand and pulled it back to her hip, holding it still. His lips crashed back onto hers, grasping. His hand broke free. He rushed it to where he wanted, squeezing. Something cold swept through her. He hadn't listened to her. He'd promised he would.

She moved her head, but his lips raced down her neck. "Stop, Keith." She shoved on his chest.

He stumbled back, his eyes dark, with a slight glare. She fell back against the wall. Her chest rose and fell with each deep breath as her arms flew to cover her breasts. What was he thinking? He knew her rules, but yet, she had responded to his kisses, his passion. Had she led him on? Dear Lord, she had. But every part of her wanted those kisses, and the sweet pleasure they produced.

"I'm sorry," she said.

He waved her off and sat on the bed as he pushed his lips into a thin line. Angel had said he would dump her if she didn't sleep with him. Was he thinking that now? But Angel was a liar. However, he might if he thought she'd led him on. Never again, would she let him get this far, if she wasn't going to let him have her.

"Want to look at some pictures?"

"No." His voice held a harshness. Keith stared out into the distance, taking slow deep breaths.

Katie shut off the music and sat by him, wrapping her arms around his waist. He was as stiff as she felt. Keith wrapped an arm around her shoulders and leaned back on the bed. She laid her head on his chest. Curfew was approaching, but she wouldn't ask him to leave.

Keith walked in the door, and stopped. Brandon lay on the couch with the blonde on top of him. They were dressed, but they were definitely on their way to something else.

Man, he wanted the physical relief Brandon was about to receive. But not with just anyone. Only with Katie. Her eyes were so shaky tonight. He had crossed the line touching her chest. He should have stopped when she'd first grabbed his hand, but he had felt such a fierce passion for her that it pained him. He wanted to pull that girl inside of him and make love to her waif of a body all night. At least she didn't force him to leave.

"You okay, Keith?" Brandon said.

Keith nodded and walked to his room with Brandon at his heels.

Keith went to his bathroom and grabbed the syringe and the small bottle. He needed something – his body was getting jittery. He tied the rope around his arm. Brandon stopped at the entrance of the bathroom door. His cheeks were flushed. Lucky him. He didn't have a Katie in his life. He should toss her aside, and be done with this.

"Katie upset you?"

Keith held up the bottle and inserted the needle into it. "She won't even let me touch her."

A smile crossed Brandon's face. "Force it. She will."

"She'd dump me."

"And you shouldn't care. She's just a girl."

His pulse quickened. "Leave!"

"Keith!"

"Leave!" Keith jumped to his feet and threw the bottle at the wall. It broke into pieces.

"Man, chill out," Brandon said, walking out of the room.

Keith sat back down and injected the drug into his arm. Brandon was right. He should force it. She might just give in. But if she didn't, could he walk away? He shook his head. He wouldn't be able to.

Katie opened her eyes and pulled the sheets down from her face. She looked around her small dorm room, noticing the wooden desk and her roommate's bed covered in black camouflage. He had left, although she had clenched his hand all night. She got up and ran to her phone. There she found a note. Picking it up, she read, "Sweet Dreams." Katie crumpled the note, sat at her desk, and bit onto her nails. Was he mad at her? What if he was? In the month that they had been dating, her every thought had become focused on him. Every second, she longed to be with him, and he seemed to really want to be with her. But last night, his eyes had contained such an anger. Anger that she had forbidden the smallest access to her body after letting him kiss her so deeply.

On her laptop, she typed: should I let Keith touch me? She stared at the screen, analyzing the words. He was so good to her.

She typed in the word yes, although as she did something in her churned. She couldn't do it. It would be going against everything she had been taught, everything she held dear. She closed her eyes as a few tears slipped from them. But Keith was so dear to her. It would be devastating if he walked away. Beside how much more different could a little touching be than kissing. She brought her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms around her legs. She had never felt for someone the way she did for Keith. Just a little couldn't hurt. Nothing more.

She picked up her phone to call Keith. But he was studying all day with Brandon. She had forgotten about that. She would call him later. Katie opened her history book and turned to chapter 13. She rubbed her temples. Asian monarchs were not that interesting.

Katie leaned back in her chair, pushing a stray curl from her face. Her three-page argumentative paper was written, and the Asian monarchs were successfully memorized. But Keith hadn't called. She looked at the clock, reading it was five. Why hadn't he called? He'd said he would. She picked up her phone, clenching it in her hands. She needed to call him - just to reconnect. But she needed to have a good reason, or she would sound desperate. Her sister had sold an art painting recently to a tea shop. Yes, it happened two weeks ago, and she hadn't mentioned it, but Keith wouldn't know.

Keith put in the key to his apartment. Was Katie still angry? He had half expected her to call during the study session, but he hadn't heard one peep from the girl. He needed to control his drive. All day he had thought about the fear in her innocent blue eyes, not being able to shake it.

Keith walked into his apartment and flipped on the lights, taking a step back. Standing in the middle of the living room was a tall woman with dyed curly blonde hair that fell to the middle of her back. She wore a black sleek dress that clung to her body and stopped in the middle of her tan thighs. In her hand she held a set of keys. "Brandon said you've been lonely."

"Yeah," he said as a slight smile crossed his face. He took his jacket off and walked up to the woman. Every part of him responded to the sultry smile on her face. "And who are you?"

"Mandy."

"Ah." Keith nodded. He touched the silver necklace that rested on her chest, gently stroking it, touching her skin at the same time. Her skin wasn't as smooth as Katie's. He shook his head. He couldn't be thinking about her right now.

"You want to touch more?" she asked.

Keith lowered his hand to her side and kissed her neck as she unbuttoned his shirt and rubbed the hair on his chest, making every part of him come alive.

Keith turned her around and walked backwards, laying on the couch and dragging her on top of him. The woman kissed his chest as he explored her.

His phone vibrated. He pulled it out and flipped it open. He smiled. She had finally called. He placed the phone to his ear. "Hey, pretty thing."

"Guess what?"

He chuckled. This was a good sign, she was happy. "What?"

"One of my sister's drawings got bought by a restaurant."

"Cool." He looked down. Mandy ran her fingers over his torso as she kissed his shoulder. He placed his hand on her chin and raised it to his face. When the woman's eyes met his, he shook his head. She sat up, knitting her brows.

"Hey, sorry I haven't called yet. I'm still studying with Brandon and the guys."

"I understand," Katie said. "Well, I'll let you go."

"Okay." He blew a kiss into the phone and hung up.

Keith set the phone down and placed his hands on his head as the woman pulled his belt off. He looked at the ceiling. Katie's smile must have been wide as they talked. He could picture her full ripe lips pulled tight. He should send her a dozen roses tomorrow. Keith looked back at the woman, cringing. He didn't want her touching him. How could Katie have ruined his enjoyment of women, when he didn't even know what she looked like without clothes on? It was something that was bred into him. Because he knew she would cry if she saw him now. He just couldn't hurt her no matter how crazy she drove him. "I'm not into this tonight," he said.

Mandy looked back at him. "You were five minutes ago."

"I know." He reached to her shoulder and nudged, signaling to her to get up. Once the woman was off his legs, he stood and walked to the kitchen.

"Want a beer for your troubles?" he said as he grabbed two beers from the fridge.

Mandy sat on a metal chair at the bar, leaning her cheek on her hand. "Who's the girl?"

"Huh?" he said, handing her a beer.

"You were all into it before she called."

Keith took a sip of his beer and put one hand on his hip, looking to his side. "She's a nice girl."

"She must have a pretty body to distract you. I've heard so many stories about you."

Keith laughed. "I haven't seen it. She won't let me touch her no matter how hard I try." He took another sip of the beer and lowered it to his waist. "And I spend every day with her."

"You love her."

He looked back at the woman; her eyes were full of a daze. Women loved romance, even whores. "You think so?"

"Yeah." The woman laughed. "Do you have a picture of her?"

"Yeah, hold on."

Keith walked into his room and came back with a picture of Katie in a blue sundress with white flowers. He handed it to Mandy.

She looked it over for a couple seconds and said, "she's pretty. I bet she'd make a good senator's wife."

"She would. She has no skeletons."

"Hmm. Well, I guess I should go."

Keith showed her out the door and sat on his couch, resting his chin on the beer. Did he love Katie? It made sense. Then why hadn't he realized it? He turned on the TV. The Yankees were on, and losing badly in the fourth inning. He loved her. That was what happened.

She would be all his. Not one other man had ever claimed her. That's why he couldn't sleep with other girls. He wanted that purity. It made every other girl pale, and become unsatisfying. He slumped back into the couch making the tight leather creak with his movements. He did love her. He loved her purity, her pretty smile and how she would just listen to whatever he had to say. He tapped the beer on his knee.

The front door opened and Brandon walked in. He sat across from Keith and stared straight into his eyes, shaking his head. "What's going on with you?" Brandon asked.

"What are you talking about?"

"I was a good friend, sent you a nice girl to lighten you, and you don't even touch her."

"Just wasn't into it."

"I have never seen someone be such a fool for a girl."

"I love her." Keith brought his beer to his lips and took a sip. He loved her. It felt soothing saying it out loud. Who wouldn't love that girl?

"And Ashley?" Brandon said, breaking into his thoughts.

"I guess I need to break up with her."

"Ashley has connections."

Keith chuckled. "You think I need more?"

Brandon laughed and left him. When Keith heard the door to Brandon's room close, he picked up his phone, and slid it awake. He brought up Ashley's number, and stared at it for a few seconds. Ashley, his long-term friend. It was just a mere agreement, nothing really solid. Nothing like Katie. His father used to think Ashley was a good idea, but over the years, he had said some harsh remarks about the girl. Would he like Katie? Katie was a hometown girl, from a middle-class family. Wouldn't that be a great campaign message?

He placed the phone to his lips and gently banged it against them. Ashley didn't love him and never would, but Katie might and he wanted that badly. He pressed the call button. It rang a couple times. This was going to be raising some eyebrows. How long before the investigations, questions? What approach would they take?

"Hey Keith," Ashley answered.

"Is my sister with you?" he asked.

"No, but someone else is. Want to talk to her?"

He chuckled. What naïve thing had she talked into her bed? This was what he loved about her.

"Nah, Ashley." He paused. She would either hate him or laugh. "Look, I want out."

"What?"

She would hate him. He took a long deep breath and let it out, but every part of him still tensed. "I've met someone and well..., she won't want to be just a mistress." He only heard Ashley's breath. "I'm sorry."

Ashley's chuckle filled his ear. "Sorry, you think I'm hurt? If you want out, fine. I still got your sister."

Keith laughed. There was his Ashley. He would laugh at him too if he was in her situation.

"Besides, I know about Katie. The girl that won't sleep with you."

"I guess Brandon told you."

"I've heard about her through various grapevines."

So they were already looking into her. "We're still cool, Ashley."

"We're still cool. Go call your girl. I have another girl waiting for me."

Keith bit on his lip. Ashley would be having fun tonight. His old self wanted to be there, but he would just walk out and call Katie.

Katie jumped at the sound of her phone. She ran to where it sat on her desk, and flipped it open, reading the number. He had called. Finally. She bit on her bottom lip. What if he was calling to break up with her? It was eight o'clock and he had been so distant. She closed her eyes. Please don't let him break up with me, Lord.

She answered the phone. "Hey, Keith."

"Hey. I'm done. I'd really like to see you."

"Do you need to talk to me about something?"

"Yeah."

Katie took a deep breath. Her body was so tense now, her legs felt like someone was pulling on them. "Okay."

"I'll be there in a couple minutes."

Katie set her phone down and let the tears release. She needed to get all these tears out before he showed up. She didn't want to sob if he said goodbye. Katie wiped her face with a wet tissue and brushed her hair. She looked in the mirror. Her eyes were red, but there was nothing she could do about that. He would know. Maybe he would find compassion for her and give her one more try. She would give more. Not too much. Just enough to keep him satisfied.

Ten minutes later, Katie went downstairs to get Keith. He had just gotten out of his car when she opened the door to her dorm building. She leaned against the post and smiled at him. His hair was slightly pushed in various directions. That was odd. Usually everything about his appearance was in order. What could that mean?

She fully stood up. "Hey. You want to come up.

Keith smiled. "Sure."

He took her hand, and she led him to her room, not able to look at him. If she just knew his eyes were light instead of dark. But she couldn't look, wouldn't look. She took slow steps, savoring the feeling of his large hand engulfing hers, making her feel protected, wanted.

Katie stopped in front of her door, reaching for the knob. She slowly turned it. Keith pushed the door opened and dragged her in. What was going on? He slammed it shut, spun her into his arms, and covered her mouth with his own. Katie couldn't move, so her arms hung loose at her side. This was what she'd wanted, but not what she'd expected. His kiss deepened, his arms pulled her closer as if he was trying to force their bodies to become one. She would do whatever he wanted. It wouldn't hurt that much. Not as much as losing him.

"Katie," Keith whispered, lowering his forehead on hers and looking straight into her eyes. "I want to tell you something."

Katie nodded.

"I love you," he whispered.

Katie grasped his arms. He loved her. That was what he'd wanted to tell her. She had read everything down to the last tint of his voice wrong. Her body filled with a strange warmth as a realization sunk into her. She loved him too. Thank you, God.

He placed his hands on her cheeks. "Katie?"

Katie leaned against his chest melting into his arms. His cologne was strong, filling her. She loved this scent – the feel of his dress shirt against her cheek, but especially the strong arms that now slipped around her waist in a firm embrace, claiming her. A tear slipped down her face. His thumb wiped it away. "Why are you crying?"

"I'm happy," she mumbled.

"What?" He lowered his ear to her lips and she breathed into his ear, "I love you, too."

"My love." He squeezed her. Sitting on the bed, he pulled her onto his lap, kissing her cheek. This was what she had dreamed about her whole life. His lips trailed over her cheek. She clenched his shirt tight. From this moment on, she would make sure she didn't lose him. She looked into his dark blue eyes, losing herself in him. No, she wouldn't lose him. Not as long as she could keep herself in his arms.

TEN

Katie gripped Keith's hand as they walked to his apartment door - his other hand held two movies based off of Jane Austen novels. Somehow she had talked him into the romances instead of the action thriller.

"I'll get some blankets," he said, letting go of her hand and reaching for the doorknob. Yes, they would need blankets, since she had agreed to come back here and cuddle with him. She rubbed her fingers together, feeling the sticky sweat that gathered despite the chilled air. They were starting to make a habit of being alone. That could be bad or good, but so far Keith hadn't asked for more than holding and kissing her. Keith opened the door and ushered Katie in, but she stopped in her track, her body tensing. A tall, slender woman with brown hair that fell to the middle of her back sat on the couch in a blue dress shirt that she recognized as Keith's.

"Hey, Keith." The girl bit down on one of the cuffs of the shirt.

Katie eyes opened wide, focusing on the smirk on Keith's face.

"That's my shirt," he said as he walked to the girl, and held out his arms. She jumped off the couch and into his arms before he spun her around in a half-circle. As they embraced, the girl looked over her shoulder at Katie. They had the same dark blue eyes.

Keith pulled her from him. "Here to torment Brandon?"

Katie let go of her breath. This must be Keith's sister. The girl laughed and turned her gaze back to Katie. "No, I wanted to meet Katie. Is this her?"

Katie blinked. He must have been talking about her to his family if his sister had made a surprise visit to meet her.

"Really," he said, turning towards her. "Katie, this is Amanda."

"Yeah, I figured," Katie said.

Amanda crossed her arms over her chest and tipped her head to the side, a strand of hair fell over her shoulder. "She looks so innocent, but beautiful."

Keith chuckled. "I know, it was one of the first things I noticed about her."

Amanda laughed and then sat on the couch - the shirt barely hid the full curves of her body. "Ashley's here by the way."

Keith's smile disappeared. "Where is she?"

"Asleep on your bed. We had a long day." Amanda brought the cuff back to her lips and bit on it.

Keith left the living room, and went to his bedroom. Katie took a deep breath and let it out in a slow stream. What was he doing in there with his ex and why was she on his bed? He hadn't said one thing about that but just marched off to his room. She squeezed her hands together. This was strange. The air of the room seemed to be filled with a tenseness.

A couple seconds later, Keith emerged with Ashley at his side.

Katie's mouth dropped open. Before her stood, Keith's first love and she was beautiful. Not just beautiful, she had an exotic look to her. She was a tall girl, almost as tall as Keith, with light chestnut hair and streaks of blonde highlights that fell just below her shoulders, tanned skin, and bright penetrating green eyes that were the dominant feature of her face. She wore a pair of boxers and a Yankee t-shirt that was Keith's.

The girl's gaze rested on her as if she was studying her. Probably sizing up her competition. There was no way she could compete with a girl who looked like she could walk off a runway.

Ashley glanced at Keith and gave him a sensuous smile before she walked up to Katie. The girl placed two hands on Katie's hips. Katie jumped, taking a step back. "Keith, you must share."

"She's not into girls," Keith said.

A smile crossed Ashley's face, revealing a perfect row of white teeth. The scent of rose perfume filled the space between them. Keith walked up to Katie and wrapped his arms around her waist, placing his chin on her head. He had come to her, but she felt no peace. Ashley must be here for a reason.

The girl laughed and turned around, walking over to Amanda. Ashley sat next to her and leaned back against Amanda so that she lay in between her legs. Katie swallowed hard. Ashley had such familiarity with Amanda's body. She had never been in a room with two homosexuals. But wasn't Amanda engaged to Brandon? Ashley's fingers trailed up Amanda's legs. "Maybe I can teach her things."

Keith laughed.

Katie wrapped her arms around her waist and sniffled as tears built in her eyes. He thought that was funny. He should know how she would feel about such comments. Keith bit down on the side of his bottom lip, a slight blush on his cheeks. He was still attracted to her. Keith had said Ashley had a girlfriend, but maybe he liked that. Katie pulled herself from Keith. "I'm going to get a drink."

She walked to the kitchen. As Katie grabbed a Coke from the fridge, she saw Keith lean over Ashley and whisper something into her ear.

Ashley laughed and pushed him away. They were too comfortable with each other to be exes. She must be here to get him back, and based on Keith's reaction it wouldn't be too hard for her. Maybe if she.... No, she wouldn't go there, she pushed the thought away.

Katie returned with a Coke and sat in a chair.

"Whatever, Keith," Ashley said, breaking out in a deep laugh.

"I'm telling you the truth. Brandon is a fool."

They were lost in their own world, not even realizing she was there. She rolled her eyes and looked at the clock. It was 11 p.m.. Katie tapped the top of her Coke bottle. So much for introducing him to Persuasion.

"So, Katie, how is Keith treating you?" Ashley asked, her emerald eyes locking on Katie's.

"Hmm." She looked back at the clock. She needed to leave. Standing, she grabbed her things and stared at Keith.

He turned to her and smiled, although his blue eyes wavered. "I guess Katie wants to get back to her dorm." He stood, grabbing his keys and coat.

"Bye, Katie," the girls said in unison. Katie rushed out the door with Keith at her heels. Those two girls could shove it for all she cared.

In the car, Keith said, "what's up?"

She crossed her arms and leaned as far back into the seat as she could. "Just take me to my dorm."

He shook his head. "All right."

The street passed by in a blur. Katie leaned her cheek against the chilled window that was probably as cold as she felt. Ashley was staying with him tonight despite the fact the girl could afford a hotel. It would be real easy for her to slip into his bed and back into his life. Unless.... Katie bit on her fingernails. Maybe Keith would be tempted to ditch his sister and spend the night with her. She would let him into her bed, and fill his arms, keeping them from feeling the void of Ashley.

At her dorm, she hurried out of the car and waited for Keith. He smiled, taking her hand.

"I love you," he said, reaching down to kiss her cheek.

She grabbed the collar of his shirt, and kept his face lowered. "Stay with me tonight."

"Where did that come from?" He laughed, biting down on his lip.

"I just want you here with me. You can even stay in my bed, with me in your arms."

"Really." He raised his eyebrows. "You think we'll be able to just sleep." He took a step back. "Don't answer that. Katie, my sister is here."

Tears swelled in Katie's eyes. She wrapped her arms around his waist and laid her head on his chest. He would rather be with his sister. Maybe she should let him have more.

"Pretty thing, you don't have anything to worry about," he said.

She squeezed him tighter. "Please, stay with me?"

Keith pulled himself from Katie and took her hands. "You could stay with me."

Katie let go of his hands, and turned from him. She didn't want him around Ashley. "No," she whispered as she went to unlock her door. Keith grabbed her arm and spun her around, clenching her shoulders.

"I'm not getting back with Ashley."

"You seem happy she's here."

He yanked her towards him, making her crash against his chest. "Listen, there is something you need to understand. Us four, as in Ashley, Amanda, Arther's daughter and I, grew up like brother and sisters. Ashley and I will always be close, but nothing else. She doesn't even like men."

Katie looked at the concrete sidewalk in front of her dorm room. "I saw the look on your face."

Keith let go of Katie's shoulders and turned from her - a chill swept over her with the absence of his warmth.

She walked to his side. A strong glare filled his eyes. "I'm sorry," she said.

Keith placed his hands on his hips and looked at the ground, shaking his head. "I'll stay with you." He looked at Katie. "You know, Katie, I want you three to be friends, so you're going have to get over this pettiness and learn to trust me."

Katie hung her head. How bad would it be to be around Ashley? She could keep her eyes on them both. "Okay, I'll stay with you. Although, I don't know where I'm going to sleep."

He laughed. "I don't know how much we'll sleep."

Katie and Keith went upstairs so she could grab a pair of pajamas. She didn't know why, but Keith called Amanda to say they were coming back. When they arrived back at the apartment, Amanda and Ashley were lying on the floor, both in red, silk pajamas with low necklines and shorts that looked more like underwear. Both had a wine glass in their hands.

"Oh boy, Katie's back," Ashley said as she sat up - her smile slipping on her face.

Katie forced a smile, as she went to the bathroom and put on her pajamas with purple and white stripes, and showed nothing. She must look like a child compared to the sexy pajamas the other girls wore. How could he not find Ashley more attractive? Maybe she should just walk out in nothing. That would show Ashley. Katie shook her head. And her virginity would be gone by morning. She opened the door. "Keith, can I have a shirt?"

No response came, so she stepped out the door. Keith walked up to her with a shirt. She took it, closed the door, and put on the shirt. It was a white t-shirt with a Yankee insignia over the breasts. So many of his shirts were Yankee shirts.

She walked back into the living room and went to sit next to Keith on the couch who leaned back with his arm stretched out on the top like he was waiting for her to slip underneath it.

"No, Katie that is where the boy is sitting, come down here with the women," Ashley said, tapping the spot next to her.

Katie stopped short and rubbed her sweaty palms on her pants. Keith smiled as he chuckled. Why was he laughing? Katie let her breath out slowly and sat on the floor next to Amanda. She could feel the other girls' eyes on her, probably studying her every move.

"What do you think, Amanda?" Ashley said.

"Brandon's right. She is pretty."

Ashley whispered in Amanda's ear, but Katie heard her say, "she's innocent looking."

Aka virgin. Did they know? Maybe Keith had told his sister about her values. Amanda smiled as she scooted behind Katie, and ran her fingers through her hair, making Katie cringe.

"We should steal her." Amanda wrapped her arms around Katie's waist. Katie sat up, trying to break her hold but the girl held on tight. Were they trying to play some kind of game?

Keith put his beer on his knee. "Good luck."

"Oh, that's right," Amanda said as she slapped Ashley's leg. "Brandon said she has morals."

So they did know.

A smirk crossed Ashley's face as she got on her hands and knees and crawled over to Katie, revealing the top of her breasts. "You're a virgin."

Katie leaned back into Amanda, trying to get away from Ashley's stare that bore through her.

"You're not helping things. She just met you," Keith said.

Ashley's lips curved into her seductive smile before she got off the floor and walked to the kitchen. "Vodka shots," she shouted.

Ashley returned with four shot glasses stacked up on top of each other and a bottle of vodka. Ashley handed Keith a glass, and poured him a drink. She then walked over to the girls, set the glasses down and filled each one.

"Katie doesn't want that," he said.

Ashley turned to Keith and blinked her eyebrows. A smile crept across his face. That eye blink must have been some kind of communication. Katie caressed a tendril of her hair. His eyes held a touch of mischief. She should have kept him with her at her dorm. She wrapped her arms around her knees slowly rocking back and forth. They were probably trying to make her uncomfortable to sort her out completely. "I think I'll try some," Katie said.

Keith laughed. "This will be interesting."

He got off the couch and sat next to her. He had his shot glass in one hand and the other held his beer.

Katie picked up the glass; her hands slightly shook. Keith hit his glass against hers and let the liquid slip down his throat. It didn't even faze him.

"Go ahead," Amanda whispered into her ear. Katie raised the glass to her lips. She closed her eyes, and copied Keith by throwing her head back and pouring the liquid into her mouth. Her eyes opened wide as the sting of the liquid bit her tongue. Her hands flew to her mouth as her stomach lurched. She forced it down with a gigantic gulp. Never in her life had she tasted something so vile.

Amanda pushed Katie's head against her chest. "She's so adorable."

She opened her eyes. Keith leaned over her - his gaze roaming her face. "How was that?" he asked.

"Gross," she said.

Keith chuckled as he held his beer up to her lips. "This will get rid of the taste."

She took a couple sips, and tried to move Keith's arm, but he wouldn't bulge. She moved her face from the bottle. Keith lifted it up, but a cold drop of beer splashed on her cheek.

"Sorry," he said.

Katie wiped the beer away.

"Did you like that?" He kissed the cheek where the beer was.

"No." Katie chuckled. Why did people drink this stuff? It tasted like some kind of tonic leaf and stung her throat, but Keith slurped it down like it was chocolate milk.

"I know what she'd like." Ashley stood and walked to the fridge. She came back with three bottles of sour apple Smirnoff, and one dogfish for Keith. She set the drinks down, and picked one up. She opened the Smirnoff and handed it to Katie. "These are delicious."

Katie took the drink, and sipped it. "It tastes like Sprite," she said. Now this she could drink.

"Yeah," Keith said as he turned his gaze to Ashley.

Katie took a long sip of the drink, watching every move of Keith and Ashley as they talked about the semester and people they knew. He seemed so focused on her. It was the allure. Something about Ashley made her come off as mystic, untouchable and Keith had touched her. Katie pushed the thought from her mind. He was with her now, not Ashley. She took another long sip of the Smirnoff. But he was definitely not over her.

"Katie, you ever been drunk?" Amanda asked.

She shook her head and finished the drink, setting the bottle down. She knew how to keep Keith's attention.

"I'm hot," Katie said. Taking the bottom of her shirt, she raised it just below her breasts. Keith's smile widened, his gaze sweeping over her bare skin. It was the most skin, she had ever revealed to him. One of his fingers ran down her stomach, leaving tingles in his wake. He stopped at the edge of her pant line, slipping the finger in just a tad as he looked into her eyes, biting on the side of his bottom lip. It was almost like he was asking if he could go further. If she let him, he'd definitely ignore Ashley. She swallowed hard and nodded.

"Cute," Ashley said.

The smile fled from Keith's face. He grabbed the bottom of Katie's shirt and jerked it down. "And someday, it will be mine."

Had Ashley said that to distract him - thus keeping his attention on her? If she had, Katie would fight back the best way she knew. Ashley couldn't slip into his arms if someone was already there. Katie sat up from Amanda, and crawled into Keith's lap as the world swirled around her. Keith wrapped her in his muscular arms, and the tension melted.

A chuckle escaped from her rival as she shook her head. Was this just a game to her?

"Can I have another?" Katie reached out for a Smirnoff.

Ashley looked at Amanda, giggling. "This will be fun."

"She's off limits." Keith placed his chin on Katie's head.

"Don't worry, we're not going to do anything." Ashley handed Katie an opened Smirnoff. Letting the bubbly liquid slip down her throat, she listened to them talk, until Ashley complained that it was too quiet. Amanda blurred into a wavy line as she went over to Keith's MP3 player and turned on music. Keith rocked his head back and forth. Kryptonite was on. He must love this song. The first time she saw him was when Kryptonite blasted through a party and he joined a group of young men, shouting out the words.

"Hey get up," Keith said, tugging at her arms. Katie placed her hands on the floor to push herself up but she wobbled falling back onto her bottom. Her head felt so dizzy. Keith stood, grabbed her from under the arms and pulled her to her feet, but still the world tilted.

"I love this song," Keith whispered into her ear.

When the words began the three started singing them. Keith placed one hand on her stomach and the other held his beer. He began moving her hips to the beat of the music, and Katie reached behind her head, wrapping her arms around his neck. At the moment she felt so erotic like Ashley. If she could just have the allure she saw in her eyes. What was it? Confidence? Did she know how men like Keith looked at her?

Keith's head crossed her shoulder, as Ashley walked over to them. They both shouted the words of the song to each other. Keith looked so good singing the song; it was the way his full lips moved. Katie turned around and rubbed his chest. A bright look formed in his eyes, and he pulled her closer, sliding his hand to the dip of her back, moving her hips to the music.

"You two look hot," Ashley shouted out.

Katie looked at the two girls who were dancing together a little too close.

She took a step towards them, but Keith turned her back around. "Stay with me, pretty thing," he said.

"I'm hot."

"Yeah, you're sexy," he said.

"No, I'm hot," she said through giggles as she reached down for her pajama pants and began to pull them off.

She only got them down an inch before Keith pulled them back up. "I don't think that would be a good idea."

Katie giggled and laid her dizzy head against Keith's chest. "I've got shorts on, silly."

Keith stopped dancing. "Do you really?"

"Uh, huh."

Amanda walked up to her and grabbed the back of her pants. "She doesn't have shorts on."

"She's drunk." He laughed.

"I've got some pjs she can wear."

It only took a few moments to change into the white silk tank top and red shorts that barely covered her bottom. Katie steadied herself with the dresser as she glanced at a mirror. The shorts made her legs look longer. Now Keith would find her more attractive than Ashley.

She walked out of the room and stopped, bending her head to the side, and playing with the low neckline of her shirt. Keith's eyes widened as he scanned every inch of her. Maybe now she had that allure. She licked her lips, a trick she had seen Angel use.

Keith held out his hands. "Get over here before I go crazy."

Success. Katie ran to him, and threw herself in his arms. "Do I look sexy now?" she asked.

"You have no idea." He moved her body to his as a new song started; his hands slipping in the back of her shirt reaching to her shoulders as he caressed her back. Strong tingles filled her as every part of her warmed. There was something soothing about his fingers touching her skin. Keith's lips trailed to her neck. His lips reached her ear as he nibbled, making a giggle escape from her. She loosened her grip on his shoulders and the world shifted. Her feet slipped from her, as she plopped on her bottom. She busted out laughing. "Ashley, I think I need another Apple thing."

Keith shook his head and grabbed her under her arms, bringing her to her feet. "I think you've had enough."

Katie ran a finger down Keith's chest. "Please, Keith," she said, pushing out her bottom lip.

Keith squeezed her shirt. "One more and that's it."

Katie turned and fell forward, but Keith caught her and sat on the floor, pulling her onto his lap. She slouched back against his body as he caressed her upper thigh. Why didn't she mind where his hand was? She only cared it was there. The ceiling rotated, and the room tilted.

Ashley and Amanda sat on the floor, holding hands. Amanda must have been the girlfriend.

"It didn't take much," Keith said.

Ashley handed Katie an opened Smirnoff. "Well, she can't weigh much."

Katie took a sip of the drink, letting the smooth liquid bite at her tongue. Ashley and Amanda were so pretty, like models. No wonder Ashley had caught Keith's eye. "You're pretty."

"Did Keith ever tell you our mother was a model?" Amanda asked.

Katie just giggled. He hadn't told her anything about his family. All she knew was, he had a sister.

"Okay, you've had enough," Keith said. He snatched the Smirnoff from her hand. "I don't want you to get sick." His hand returned to her thigh and he squeezed it, sending strange tremors through her.

Katie lay down and rested her head on his upper thigh as his hand slipped into her shorts. Ashley crawled over to her and whispered, "go to sleep, Katie."

"Okay." Katie giggled, closing her eyes. She would open them in a second.

The girls giggled talking about some party they had recently been to. Keith flicked Katie's shoulder. She didn't move. He caressed her leg, slipping his hand back in her shorts. Did she realize how silky her skin felt? If he could only touch her more. His hand trailed farther up. Just a little bit. Nothing that would catch Ashley's attention. He removed his hand from her. Later. He had other issues to attend to first.

"She's out." He looked back at the girls. "So, Amanda, who sent you up here, Father or Arther?"

Amanda brought her knees to her chest. "Both."

He bent his head to the side, his right top lip snarling upwards. "Why?"

"I think they're just a little worried."

"About what?" Keith looked down at Katie. She hadn't stirred.

"Don't get mad." Amanda reached for his hand, but he pulled it away. "It's just you act so different with her."

Keith shook his head. "Sullivan?"

"As far as we know, they haven't asked him to do anything," Amanda said.

"Good. I don't want him spying on her." He paused for a second and trailed every inch of Katie's smooth face with his eyes. "It's bad enough he spies on me."

"Don't," Amanda said.

Keith tapped his fingers on the floor.

"Maybe you should stop being Arther's favorite," Ashley said.

"Not my idea."

"Where's this going?" Amanda said.

Keith brushed a lock of Katie's hair out of her face. It was going somewhere, but he didn't know where. He had too many conflicting interests. But she could fit in. There was nothing about her that could keep him from being a senator. "I love her."

"But where's it going?" Amanda asked again.

He rubbed a tendril of hair in between his fingers, relishing the silkiness of it. "I don't know. I just really want to be with her."

Amanda and Ashley both looked at each other with wide eyes, shaking their heads. They both probably thought he was crazy. He could just imagine the conversations Arther and his father were having right now about the girl who rested in his lap. But he didn't care. He wanted her more than anything those two planned.

"How much does she know about you?" Amanda said, breaking into his thoughts.

"She knows Arther and our father are close."

Amanda tilted her head to the side. "Does she know you've to call Sullivan every time you leave the city? Does she know that he'll just show up and watch you and you won't even know he's there?" Amanda leaned towards him, a sharpness in her eyes. "Does she know our father is going to buy you a seat in congress someday?"

"You know I can't tell her that yet," Keith said. "Father would kill me."

"You're not a normal guy."

"She knows that. And I'll tell her the rest when it's time."

"Okay," Amanda replied, shaking her head. "I hope she doesn't freak out."

"She's a smart girl." He paused for a second before he said, "I'm tired." He took Katie by the arms and pulled her up to his chest. "You two sleep in my room, and I'll put her on the couch."

The girls went to his bedroom, closing the door. He lay Katie down on the couch, watching the smooth rise and fall of her chest. She was deep in sleep. Her lips puckered slightly and very enticingly. This girl had no idea how crazy she could make a man. He kissed her lips, letting the kiss deepen more than she'd ever allowed, his hands exploring to where they had always wanted to go. His breath became short and he pulled from her. Better not go too far or he would never be able to stop. He stood. She would give in soon. He was already breaking her down.

Katie wrapped her arms tighter around Keith. The girls had left an hour ago and now they cuddled on the couch, watching a football game. Now she could relax. Since Ashley was nowhere around, she didn't have to worry about them slipping back into each other's arms. Katie buried her head into Keith's shoulder, smelling the fresh scent of his shirt. She loved being in his arms. His right hand began stroking her side, a now familiar touch.

She tried to focus on the game, but her thoughts slipped back to Ashley. Why did his sister and she really come down? To check her out. Keith's fingers began to stray up her side, making her tense. She clenched the side of his shirt. His fingers reached to where she didn't want them and began exploring. She should tell him to stop, but she couldn't. What if he got upset and went back to Ashley, a girl who would give him all? A lump formed in her throat as his other hand caressed her leg. She would just let him touch her. There was nothing wrong with that. A warning from her youth pastor entered her thoughts. She pushed it away and concentrated on the feel of Keith's warm breath as his lips caressed her neck. A tingling sensation spread through her. Just a little and nothing else.

ELEVEN

Katie pulled her book bag strap over her shoulder as she passed by the general ed. building at St. Mary. She had two more classes and then she would call Keith. They had no plans for tonight, just watching a movie and cuddling. Laughter floated to her.

"There's Keith's new slut."

She stopped and turned. Becca leaned against the wall surrounded by a few other girls. All wore the same sorority shirt, a white V-neck with pink Greek letters ironed on.

Katie shook her head and reached for the door handle. Her hand stilled.

"Of course, she keeps insisting she hasn't slept with him yet."

Tears swelled in Katie's eyes. She pushed back her shoulders and turned to look at the girls. "I see Angel's jealousy has spread to you."

"Jealousy." Becca twirled a blonde ringlet around her finger. "More like gratitude."

Becca turned and headed in the opposite direction. She stopped and looked over her shoulder, focusing on Katie. "I bet you'll be his pick for one more week." She laughed, shaking her head.

"I want to be next. I've heard about his moves," another girl said as she locked arms with Becca and strolled away.

Katie wiped away the tear that rushed down her face. He wasn't going to leave her. He loved her. Told her that. She again wiped at the tears pouring down her face. They had called her a slut. That they couldn't wait until he dumped her. Well, she would make sure he wouldn't. She would do anything to make sure Keith was completely satisfied with her. Katie reached for her phone and pulled up Keith's number.

The stuff burned through his nose. The blood would flow soon. Keith leaned his head back, and let out a slow low breath while Alley ran a hand over his arm. She must be waiting for him to pass the plate. Brandon had said she only wanted the drugs since she had a constant need to get high. The blonde laughed saying some crude joke, while she wrapped her legs around Brandon.

His phone rang. Could that be Katie? Nah, it was too early. She had two more classes before their Friday could begin. Maybe tonight he could finally get that shirt off. She had already started letting his hands roam all over her upper body so he could relish the silkiness of her skin. He closed his eyes, feeling the jitters dissipate.

Brandon put the phone to Keith's ear. "It's Katie."

"Hey babe," he whispered.

"I'm on my way to your place. I need to talk to you."

"You are?" he pushed out. What was she doing skipping class? He glanced around at all the evidence that would make Katie never speak to him again.

"Yeah, I hate Angel," she shouted into his ear.

"Okay. Give me ten. I need to clean the place up."

Brandon closed the phone.

"Take everything to your bedroom. I don't want Katie to see it."

"What about her?" Brandon pointed to Alley.

"What do I care?"

Brandon laughed and said, "more for me." He held out his hand to the brunette. The girls picked up the glass plate and the supplies and followed Brandon up the curvy stairs to the bedroom.

Well, she got what she wanted. "Be quiet," Keith shouted at them before they closed the door.

He pulled himself to the couch and focused on the oak door in front of him. Would she notice that he was on something, but then again he hadn't taken too much. Besides, she probably had no clue what drugs could do to a person.

A few moments later, someone knocked on the door. He stood and opened the door, letting Katie swoop in. She flung herself in his arms as he glided his hands into her hair. Her eyes were red as if she had been crying. He ran a thumb over her cheek, feeling the dampness.

"What's wrong, babe?" he asked.

"Becca called me a slut."

He pulled her into a firm embrace, burying his face into her hair. The smell of her strawberry shampoo floated around him. "Those girls are shallow. Don't let them depress you."

"I know, it's just I wish I had a girlfriend here."

"You've got me," he said.

A smile stretched across her face as her eyes brightened; her pink lips glistened from the strawberry lip gloss. He licked his lips. Man, did he love the taste of it. Keith leaned down to kiss her, but pulled back as a warm sensation flooded through his nose.

"Man." He turned for the bathroom.

"What's wrong?"

The sound of Katie's heels clicking on the bare floor followed him. Keith turned the faucet on and hung his head over the sink as the blood dripped, coloring the white porcelain.

"I get a lot of bloody noses."

Behind him metal clanked together. His shirt was yanked back, and something cold was pressed onto his back, making him flinch. "What are you doing?" he asked.

"The blood will stop in a second. Just keep your head over the sink."

Keith swallowed as the taste of metal filled the back of his throat. The dark red drips slowed and then tapered completely off. Keith splashed cold water against his face, letting it wipe away the red stain that had trailed down his lips. A soft black towel crossed over his face, as five small fingers circled his arm. Someday this girl would make a loving mother.

"What did you do?"

Katie removed her hands from Keith's shirt and held up some keys. "I don't know why, but if you put metal on the small of your back it stops nose bleeds."

"Ah," he said as a smile crossed his face. "That's some conjure woman trick."

"Just science." She placed the keys back in her pocket. "My mama always did it when I got bloody noses. If you ever meet her, you'll see she believes in so many natural remedies."

"I'll meet her someday."

Katie's eyes lit up and a full smile crossed her face. Keith took Katie's hands and pulled her close to him right before kissing her forehead. "Want to get some lunch?"

"No, I kind of feel like being held. Just to be reminded that there is actually someone up here who cares about me."

He took her hand and brought it to his chest caressing her fingers. "We could go lie down in my room."

She nodded, looking off to the side.

His mouth dropped open. She had actually said yes, but then again he was breaking her down. Soon she would break completely. He led her to his room and shut the door, locking it.

Katie's eyes steadied on the bed -- her hands gripped the sides of her dress. He caressed her back. "You'll feel better in a little bit. Just rest in my arms."

She kicked off her shoes, and lay down, resting her head in one of his pillows. Her creamy skin contrasted with the black sheets, making her look like a jewel being displayed. His jewel. Completely untouched by men.

"What are you doing?" she asked.

"You look really pretty."

"Well, get over here."

Keith lay down behind her, scooting as close to her as he could. Her small body curved into his as she bent her knees. He leaned his cheek on hers and placed his hand on her side. It had been five weeks since he had been with a woman, and every inch of his body grew tense and excited. He ran his fingers up her side, lifting her shirt as goose bumps rippled over her skin.

"I'm glad I can trust you," she said.

Keith pulled her close and let out a slow breath.

"I hate it here," she said.

"What can I do to make you happier?"

She rolled over and placed her hands on his chest, caressing his shirt. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes. She had no idea how one little touch could make a man want more. So innocent. So ready. He kissed her lips, pulling her close to his body. He tried to roll her on her back, but she moved her face and wrapped her arms around him.

"I'm so miserable up here," she said. Keith kissed a couple tears as they fell down her cheeks. "You're so good to me."

"It's because I really love you."

"You don't mind not being able to sleep with me?"

He looked into her watery blue eyes. "I just like being with you."

"When you say things like that, I know you're not the guy Angel says you are."

Keith brushed a strand of her hair from her cheek. He bent down low over her face and said, "tell me how to make you happy."

Katie pouted her lip out a little. If he could just see into her mind and find out what she wasn't telling him.

"Tell me Katie, what you want and I'll do it."

"Take me to a good bookstore."

"Okay, let's go," he said, his voice had an edge to it, but hopefully she didn't notice.

Katie walked into the bookstore holding Keith's hand and glanced at the rows of books filling the oak bookshelves that reached to the ceiling. She had always wanted a large library and that thought didn't seem so far off now. The scent of cocoa mixed with espresso floated in the air. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, soaking in the scent of cinnamon. Her library would have to have an espresso machine.

"Get whatever you want," Keith said.

She walked up to a bookshelf, and ran her hand on the back of the books. Her fingers stopped on the dark red spine of Gone With the Wind. She pulled it from the shelf. "This is my favorite book."

Keith took it from her and looked down at the cover.

"Have you read it?" she asked.

"No, but I will."

She chuckled. Keith never read fiction, but always books on politics, history and world events. Katie bent her head to the side. She knew so much about him despite the short time she had been dating him. That must be a good sign.

They walked around the store, and each time Katie picked up a book, Keith added it to the stack in his hands. She kept waiting for him to protest even though she knew he wouldn't. Keith would spend anything on her. When she had scanned the whole store, and Keith had at least eight books in his hands, she sat on a bench in front of the magazine section. Keith sat by her side and looked at the covers of several books. She picked up a Glamour magazine and flipped through it, stopping when she found a picture of a girl with limbs like twigs. The model looked so gaudy with the gold painted all over her body – her eyes held a vague look as though she was already dead. "These girls are so thin."

Keith leaned over and looked at the magazine.

"Girls die to look this beautiful," she said.

Keith snatched the magazine from her hand. "What do you expect when a fag decides what's hot?"

She flinched. That was a harsh statement. He stood and grabbed a Maxim, flipping through the pages, until he settled on a picture of a girl in a bikini, leaning against a tiger.

He sat next to her. "Look at this girl. Look at the curvy fullness of her hips and long nice legs." Keith traced his finger over each part of the girl's body as he pointed it out. "This is what a man wants. That's why she's in a magazine for men. No man wants a twig."

"Is that what you want in a woman?"

"That's what I got." He closed the magazine. "You have a nice body. I imagine you look like her in a bikini."

Katie's cheeks warmed. "You think I look like her?"

"Yeah," he said. He gave her a sensuous smile, letting his eyes scan her body.

Katie tensed. She knew what was on his mind.

Keith pulled her into his arms. "You alright?"

The scent of his fresh shirt floated to her as tingles filled her. He gave so much to her, but what did she give him? Nothing. She would have to before he grew tired of her. "Let's get something to eat."

He bought the books; took her to get a hamburger and then the movies.

Afterwards, they walked towards his car. "Want to go back to your dorm?"

She got into the car after he opened the door. "No. Can I stay with you tonight?"

Keith raised his eyebrows. "You don't?"

"No, the last person I want to see is my roommate." She tried to stop her voice from trembling, but it was useless, she could hear the shakiness. She pressed her hand against her ice-cold cheek.

"Do you want to get some clothes?"

"No."

All she wanted to do was get to his room, and get things over with. She leaned her head against the window. Was she actually going to do this? To let him have her, before he even made a permanent commitment? Yes, she would. If she showed him how much she loved him, he would stay. He just would. And then she could prove Becca and Angel wrong. She would treat him better than Ashley ever did, and he would soak her up.

They didn't talk much on the way to his apartment. When they arrived, Katie went to Keith's bedroom. She kicked off her shoes, dropped her coat and lay on his bed - stretching out on the soft silk sheets. She closed her eyes when Keith lay down next to her. Her body trembled as he ran a hand under her shirt and rested it on her belly before kissing her softly on the ear, his lips trailing to her mouth. It was going to hurt. She'd always heard it would.

His kiss became more passionate, more forceful. His hands began to explore. This was as far as she had ever let him go. He pulled on her shirt, making her cringe. She moved from him. What was she thinking?

He took a deep breath and rolled onto his back. His eyes darkened. He used to try and hide his annoyance, but no longer. He was growing tired of her prudishness. She felt a harsh burning feeling in her stomach.

"I...." She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, but the tightness in her limbs wouldn't subside. The burning feeling grew harsher. Her stomach felt unsettled like she could throw up at this moment.

His fingers caressed her cheek. "What is it?"

She stilled. Leave. Did she just hear a small voice telling her to leave, to flee the temptation? Keith leaned over her, longing in his light blue eyes, and her whole body warmed. He loved her so much, showed it in everything he did for her. The time had come for her to show him the same love.

"Be gentle," she whispered. "Please."

"What are you talking about?"

She placed her hands on his back. "Just remember I've never done it before."

Keith's lips slowly turned into his sensuous smile.

"I...."

His lips smashed into hers with such a forceful passion, revealing the depth of his desire for her. Katie wrapped her arms around his back and pulled him close. This would be their wedding night. The night she clenched him for forever.

TWELVE

Katie rolled over and wrapped her arms around her waist as a chill swept over her body. Fingers brushed her bare skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps. What had happened to the blankets and Keith? The whole night, she had listened to his heartbeat thumping against her ear. She reached for the sheets, but grabbed something solid. A hand. She opened her eyes and smiled at Keith who leaned over her. His damp hair was brushed back, making his eyes stand out. Those eyes had held so much compassion last night when she started to cry from the pain.

"What are you doing?" she asked.

"Just watching you sleep. You're so beautiful."

"Oh." She looked down over her bare body. He must have pulled the sheets off of her. She sat up and pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around her legs.

"Close your eyes," he said.

She closed them. Something cold encircled her neck and fell over her skin, making her hand fly to her throat. Jewels. The edges felt so smooth. They must be of the finest quality.

"You can open them."

Katie opened her eyes and looked down at the string of diamonds that glittered against her skin. How beautiful. Men only gave diamonds to girls they loved.

"I was waiting for the right moment to give this to you."

Something warm swept through her. A moment as beautiful as last night. "Keith, I...." Katie caressed the smooth edges of the diamonds. "I love them."

"Do you?"

She nodded. "You are so good to me."

"You were good to me last night."

Heat spread across her cheeks. "I wanted to be."

"I'm glad, but I want you to know I really love you," he said, staring straight into her eyes, entrancing her. "And I'm not going to leave you."

Katie's heart felt light. He had made a promise not to leave her. Keith lifted her hair and she clasped the necklace ends together. "I'll wear it all day."

"Thank you." Keith kissed her on the lips, laying her back onto the bed - the scent of his sandalwood cologne floated all over her. No voices talked to her this time, and the harsh feeling was gone. Good. She could now concentrate on pleasing him.

When they were done, Keith rolled off of her, put on a t-shirt and his boxers. His face had a brightness to it, and he had a bounce in his steps. "I'm going to get a drink."

Katie put on the dress shirt he wore last night, and grabbed some boxers from one of his drawers. She followed him into the kitchen. Brandon sat at the table, sipping a cup of coffee and reading a newspaper. He lowered the paper – his eyes wide.

"Hey." She raised her hand.

Brandon nodded as a smirk slipped on his face. He knew. Which meant Ashley and Amanda would know soon.

Keith poured two glasses of orange juice and handed her one. She took a sip, glancing over the glass. Brandon wouldn't look away. Was it that big of a shock that she had spent the night with Keith? Amanda probably spent many nights with Brandon. But Brandon's look made her feel dirty, a slut like those girls had called her. She turned around and headed to the fridge, but she couldn't shake the feeling that he still watched her. She had to get him out of the house. She opened the fridge and spotted a twelve-pack of beer, a half pint of milk and nothing else. "You don't have any food."

"We mostly eat out," Keith said.

She closed the fridge. "Can you go to the store and get some food? I'll make you two breakfast."

"Let's just go out to eat."

Brandon stood and pushed the chair against the table. His eyes were so animated. "Keith, let her make us breakfast."

Katie turned to Keith and smiled.

"Okay." He set his glass down and headed towards the bathroom.

Katie sat on a stool at the bar. Maybe Brandon would get the shock out of his system before they returned.

Keith brushed a lock of hair out of his eye as he got into the car just seconds before Brandon sat next to him. Later, he would have to talk to him about how he followed Katie's every move like she was some exhibit. Besides, there was nothing different about the girl, she was still innocent and in, a way still, virginal.

"Details," Brandon said.

Brandon had a bright smile on his face, expectation in his eyes. Keith squeezed the steering wheel. "No."

Brandon slapped Keith's arm. "Oh, come on, you always tell me details."

His voice rose. "I'm not sharing her."

Brandon raised his hands in the air. "Whatever, man. Don't freak out."

Keith started the car. "Just don't ask me about her."

Brandon changed the subject to his experiences from last night. He didn't want to hear about the other girls; he just wanted to think of Katie and how good last night had felt. He replayed it in his head, feeling the desire rise again. She was so perfect, so delicate and last night was wonderful. She had been timid, scared and just lay there, but he had never found more pleasure in a woman. As he caressed her, promising it wouldn't always hurt, he knew he would always be happy and could do whatever his father wanted, just as long as she was his. He would marry her no matter what his father said.

Keith walked in the door of his apartment, holding a medium brown package. It had started to snow this morning, which had delayed him from returning home to Katie. Hopefully, she believed the note he left, saying he had to take care of something for school. He had gone to a rare bookstore in town, but they didn't have what he wanted; the clerk had called another bookstore in Boston and found it there. He had waited as one of the interns at the firm flew into Connecticut with it. He then picked up the ring from the jewelry store.

After patting his pocket to make sure the small black box was still there, he shrugged off his coat and looked around the apartment, finding Katie asleep on the couch, lost in a dream. He went to where she lay, and kissed her on the head. She opened her eyes and smiled. "Get done what you needed to?" Her eyelids flickered. He had never seen such a beautiful face.

"I want today to be all about you. It's snowing Katie."

Her eyes widened. "It is?"

Katie slid off of the couch and ran to the window. She lifted the blinds and stared out at the white scene. "It's so beautiful."

Keith wrapped his arms around her waist. "Not as beautiful as you."

"Let's go outside," she said.

"Go put on some warm clothes."

It only took Katie five minutes before she returned all bundled up in a light brown coat and a purple wool hat pulled over her head. The smile on her face reminded him of the brown box that sat on the floor next to the couch.

"Let's go," she said, slipping on some gloves.

"Before we do, I want to give you something." He walked over to the couch and picked up the box, before handing it to her.

He stared into her light blue eyes, feeling himself lost in them. "I wanted to give you something really special."

"What is it?"

"Just open it."

Katie opened the box. She gasped and then dropped it.

"Katie." He bent down and picked up the box. His whole body warmed at the sight of her wide bright eyes. He had chosen well.

"Where did you find it?" she asked.

"I searched all day, and finally found it at a bookstore two hours from here." He handed it back to her. "It's a first edition."

"I know."

"Gone With the Wind. Oh, Keith." She flung her arms around him; still holding the book. "You make me so happy." She pulled from him. "I wish I could do something like this for you."

"Maybe you'll have your chance later." He squeezed her.

She kissed him on the cheek and wrapped her arms tighter around his neck. "I will."

Yes, she would. He held her for a few more minutes before reminding her of the snow.

Katie laid her head against Keith's shoulders as a small gathering of children worked together erecting a snowman as white flakes floated around them. Maybe someday they would watch their own children trying to complete such a task.

"The Yankees should have won that game," Keith said. "But...."

A yawn escaped her lips. She wanted a child with dark blue eyes and his dark brown hair. But she was getting ahead of herself.

Keith wrapped her in his arms and continued on about the ballgame. Snake like, she stretched out her hand and grasped a small handful of snow. Her hand flew to the top of Keith's head and plopped it down on his black knit hat.

He pushed his lips into a thin line while scrunching his eyes. His cheeks took on a pink color as snow dropped over his brow. He opened his eyes. "You know, sweetheart, you shouldn't start a fight with someone bigger than you."

Katie busted out laughing as Keith swept her in his arms and carried her to a pile of snow and dropped her. The powdery snow surrounded her and chilled her to the bone as Keith began to bury her. She gazed into his eyes full of light and mischief. She had never seen him so childish. This was her man, the one she loved.

With the balls of her feet, she pushed the swing back and forth, but she couldn't generate enough heat to warm her chilled body.

Keith gazed out into the distance as he told her about his father's firm. "Someday I'm going to run that firm, Katie. Can you see it?"

She smiled. She could. What a leader he would make. Life with him would be wonderful. If she could just stay with him, helping him accomplish his dreams, like a wife should. He would have his firm and she would have her small class of kindergarteners. Together they could shape lives, just on different scales.

Keith stood. He must want to leave. She planted her feet onto the ground but he motioned for her to stay seated. He stepped in front of her, taking her hands. His blue eyes didn't waver, showing every ounce of confidence in him.

"I've got big plans, Katie, but all I really want is you."

"Well, you got me." Her cheeks warmed.

"No, I really want you."

Keith knelt, and brought her hands to his face, kissing her knuckles. "I really love you, and I want us to be together forever. My life wouldn't be worth it without you."

Katie sucked in air. Where was this conversation going? She searched his face, but not one emotion flickered across it.

"I'll always give you what you want," Keith continued. "And do anything to keep you happy. Just do me one favor."

"Always love you," she said. Her smile stretched farther.

"Yeah, that's all I'll ever want from you."

"Don't worry. I can't see myself loving anyone else." Katie tapped her feet on the ground.

"Remember how this afternoon, you said you wish you could do something real special for me?"

"Yeah."

Keith reached into his pocket and removed his hand, revealing a three diamond princess cut ring. "Then become my wife."

Katie lost her breath. That was what he wanted. Her as his wife. An intense heat filled her, spreading throughout every limb.

"Am I going to get an answer?"

She nodded, as tears slipped down her face.

The smile on Keith's face widened and he slipped the ring onto her finger. "Oh, my love," he said, pulling her from the swing and grasping her in his arms.

She rested her head on his chest, inhaling the scent of his cologne. Her plan had worked; she had made him happy, so he wanted her. She closed her eyes; she would be with him, forever.

THIRTEEN

Besides a red knit sweater, and a long black skirt, Katie walked into her composition class wearing a smirk on her face. She looked around the room and spotted Angel sitting by herself, chewing on her eraser. This shouldn't take long and then she could return to Keith's apartment and wait for him to get done with his study session. She strolled to Angel's seat in the back, and sat next to her. Angel must be ignoring her, but Katie focused on the back of her head.

"What, Katie?" Angel said, finally turning to her.

"I just wanted to show you something."

She waited for Angel to respond, but the girl just glared at her.

"I guess he's not playing with me." Katie raised her hand and showed Angel the diamonds.

"He gave you that?" Angel shouted, and everyone in the room turned to look at them.

Katie turned the ring to her face. "Yeah. He said he couldn't imagine his life without me." Katie looked at her. "I can't wait to be Mrs. Wilkerson."

Angel took several quick breaths before she grabbed her books and ran out of the room.

Katie stood and wrapped her arms around her waist, chewing on her bottom lip. Turning, she left amongst the whispers of her classmates. She should feel better – at least satisfied instead of feeling drained. Was revenge always this unsatisfying?

Katie slipped on a pair of black shorts that just covered her bottom and a white t-shirt that stretched tight over her skin, accenting her curves. This was Keith's favorite outfit. Hopefully, it would distract him. School would be ending in two weeks for the winter break and she just wanted him to come home with her to meet her parents. She tapped her fingers on the dresser in front of her. In the mirror, she could see the unsettledness in her eyes. She should have told her family about him, but how could she explain that he was 24, and not a Christian? Keith would be mad if he knew, but maybe she could make him understand. She took a deep breath, letting the air out in a slow stream. Somehow everything would work out. Maybe her parents would find out about his godfather and then they wouldn't care or notice his age and lack of faith.

She walked out of the bedroom, tip- toeing up to the black leather couch until she was right behind him. He sat on the couch with his arms outstretched on the back. In front of him, a basketball game played on the HD TV that took up forty percent of the wall. She practiced a pout before she walked to the side of the couch and plopped herself onto his lap.

"What are you up to, pretty thing?" He wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her close. A smile crossed his face, highlighting his wide blue eyes.

"I want something." She stuck out her bottom lip.

"What's that?" He chuckled, pushing down on her bottom lip with one finger.

"I want you to meet my parents."

"Kind of need to if I'm going to marry you."

Katie placed her hands on his chest. "You think you can come home for a couple days over break, maybe before Christmas?"

"I don't know. Let me ask my father since I usually work for him during break."

"Oh." She looked down. "You think he'll let you?"

"I don't know, probably. Let me go ask him." Keith motioned for Katie to get up, and she slipped off his lap. Katie knit her brows as he grabbed his cell phone and headed to the bedroom, closing the door behind him. Why didn't he like calling his family in front of her? He always ran off to his room.

A couple minutes later, the door opened and he reappeared. "Everything's cool," he said.

Katie ran to him, flinging herself into his arms. She looked at his blue eyes, and lost herself in the brightness of them. On the way to North Carolina, she'd tell him that her parents knew nothing about him, but not right now; he seemed too happy. She squeezed him close, letting the musk of his cologne enter her nose. Tomorrow, she would call her parents, and let them know she'd be bringing a friend home for a couple days. It would all work out. It just would.

Katie looked out the window of the plane, watching the ground disappear beneath the clouds. Would North Carolina feel too hot? She had grown so used to such a frigid winter in Connecticut, but her mother had said that at home the temperature hadn't fallen below 60 yet. She glanced at Keith, sitting next to her in a pair of blue jeans and a Yankee sweatshirt. He chewed on a stick of peppermint gum; the scent filled the small space in-between them.

She rubbed her palms together, feeling the perspiration. Please don't get mad. "I need to tell you something."

Keith placed the newspaper he was reading on his knees and leaned his head against the seat, focusing on her.

"I'd be careful about touching me," she said.

He smiled. "Yeah, I already figured on keeping my hands to myself."

Her nerves calmed a little. That was silly. Of course, he would. "They don't know you're the president's godson. I figured you don't want them to know."

"I'd rather they get to know me first."

She paused and took a deep breath. "They don't know you're rich."

Keith knitted his brows. "What do they know about me?"

Katie looked away. A baby gnawed on his mother's shoulder a couple seats up. His dark hair shot up in different directions.

"They don't know I exist."

"No." Every part of her tensed. She squeezed her hands together, but the tension wouldn't release.

"Katie, why haven't you told them about me?" His voice sounded tight.

Tears swelled in her eyes. "I don't know. It's not that I'm ashamed of you. It's just, I didn't want to be asked a million questions."

His eyes softened and he pinched her chin. "It's fine. Don't be upset. But you better take off that ring, or you'll get a lot of questions."

"All right."

Katie slipped the ring onto a chain she had brought just for that purpose and put it around her neck, tucking it under her shirt. It would all work out.

Keith stepped out of the car and shut the door. So this was Katie's childhood home. Nothing but a two-story white house with a wraparound porch. A few brown and bare bushes ran around it. Dead leaves covered the front yard – halfway hiding a few elves and squirrels painted in green mold. He took his coat off and slung it over his shoulder. This was not his world. How could four people have lived in that home?

Katie walked up to him, slipping her hand in his. "This is where I grew up."

"I see."

"Katie," an unfamiliar female voice said.

He looked up and saw her sister Shelly running towards Katie with her mother and father behind her. Her blue jeans and white shirt accented the same curves Katie had. She had just as much innocence in her smile. Would they make love the same way? Hmm. He pushed the image from his mind.

The girls embraced and jumped around in a small circle, talking about how much they'd missed each other.

"Baby," Katie's father said as he wrapped his arms around his little girl. Katie's mother joined in the group hug. They were quite an affectionate family. Keith looked off to the side at the rows of houses that looked cramped together. How did one live so close to other people?

The group broke up and at once turned to look at him with confused looks. He chuckled. Maybe they thought she was bringing home a girl.

Shelly grabbed her sister's arm, and said, "man, did you bring home a friend."

Katie giggled, raising her hands for an explanation. "Everybody, this is Keith, my friend."

Friend. Huh. Keith took a step towards her father and held out his hand to shake it. "William Wilkerson, Sir, but everybody calls me Keith."

"Nice to meet you, son," her father said, his eyes looking in the direction of the rental BMW. He must be trying to figure who he was and what he was doing with his daughter.

Shelly stepped in front of her father, her black curly pony-tail swaying behind her - her green eyes wide and bright. "Katie finally brought home a boy," she said.

"Shelly." Katie took her arm.

"So this is your friend?" her mother said, walking up to her girls. She must have given the girls their curves although her hips were slightly wider probably from bearing two children. She had long brown curly hair that flowed down her back just like Katie's.

"Yeah." Katie clasped her hands in front of herself. "Keith and I have gotten to know each other real well during the last semester."

Mr. Morris's jaw dropped low as he shook his head. "So you live in North Carolina, also Keith?"

"What?" Keith squinted his brows down as he looked over her father's head to Katie. She just shrugged her shoulders and gave him an innocent smile. "No, sir, I'm from New York City."

"Really, I could have sworn Katie said you were from North Carolina. But I guess it doesn't matter. Let's grab your bags."

"Yeah." Keith shook his head. This was going to be an interesting weekend. Just wait until they found out about the engagement. He used a remote button and popped open the trunk of the car. The two men walked towards the vehicle and grabbed the bags. Keith heard the sound of more approaching feet. What, another family member?

"Katie, you're home."

Keith turned just in time to see a skinny boy with short light-brown hair walk up to them.

"Hey, Jeff," Katie said waving at the boy. Her eyes looked unsettled. There must be something about this boy. Maybe an old crush.

The boy's smile stretched fully across his baby face and his wide eyes accented the pinkness in his cheeks. Keith narrowed his eyes. Hmm. He seemed too taken with her.

"Give me a hug, Jeff," Katie said before wrapping her arms around the boy.

Heat rose in him. He took two quick steps towards them, but stopped. He would talk to her about that later but not in front of her parents.

"Oh, Jeff," Katie said as she turned to Keith. "This is a friend from Yale."

Keith walked up to them and he held out his hand, hoping that would release Jeff's arms from Katie. But Jeff kept one hand on her back as he moved his other hand closer to Keith so he could shake his hand. "Nice to meet ya."

His blood boiled under his skin. Keith bowed his head in acknowledgment, keeping his gaze fixed on Jeff. He must be an idiot to not even guess that they were a couple.

"Katie, so are you coming tonight?"

"To what?"

"Youth meeting. Everybody who went off to college is going to be there."

"Oh, that's right," Katie said.

She hadn't forgotten. Her eyes wavered and she looked to the ground. "We can go, Katie, if you want to see your friends."

She smiled and turned back to Jeff. "We'll be there."

"Cool, let's all ride together like old times," Jeff said.

Katie nodded. "We'll come over around 6:30."

"I can't wait to catch up," Jeff said as he raised his hand to Katie's family and turned back to his home.

Keith shook his head. That boy was no competition, but still, he didn't even want someone else thinking of Katie.

Katie's family helped them grab the two cases, and they went inside, being greeted by the scent of fried chicken. Katie showed him around, pointing out family photos that lined the mantel and her family's bookcase that spread across a whole side of a wall. He scanned the books which mostly centered on politics, natural childbirth and medicine with a few of the classics thrown in. So they liked to be educated. Keith glanced over his shoulder. Every eye in the house focused on him.

"He must be rich. Look at those clothes," her mother whispered to her father. The corners of his lips twitched. This was not the impression he wanted to make, but maybe it would play to his advantage.

"Come let's go find a seat," Katie said, showing him to a faded plaid couch. Her parents sat in matching green plush chairs.

Shelly sat on the other side of Katie, beaming at him as she leaned over her sister. He was surrounded. Keith bent to Katie's ear and whispered, "I must have something on my face."

Katie giggled and whispered back, "I've never had a boyfriend."

Keith nodded as he leaned over and looked at Shelly. They stared at each other for a second until Keith crossed his eyes, which broke Shelly's gaze, and all three started laughing.

"So, son, you go to Yale?"

Keith turned to her father. "Yes, sir, I'm in my last year of law school."

"You're a lot older than Katie." He leaned forward like he was going to jump out of the seat as he clenched the armrests.

Keith smiled. Now he was nervous. "Yes, sir."

Mr. Morris shook his head and leaned back into the couch. "What does your father do?" The tension was strong.

"Daddy, don't interrogate him," Katie said.

Her father raised a hand. "Just trying to get to know him."

As in trying to figure out if he was worthy of his little girl. Well, he'd make sure Mr. Morris gained a favorable impression of him. He could play the good Christian boy. "My father is a lawyer, also."

"And your mother?" Katie's mother asked.

"Well." Keith paused, he studied Katie's mother for a second. She was a midwife and believed in the benefits of women working. "She was a model before she had me, but now she just does charitable work."

"That's noble," Mrs. Morris said.

"So Katie how did you two meet?" her father asked.

"Through a mutual friend."

Shelly tugged her arm. Katie bent to her sister and heard her whisper, "How long have you been dating?"

Katie smiled, but looked at her father when he asked Keith his father's name.

"Matthew Wilkerson. I hope to bring Katie up to New York soon to meet my parents."

Her father paused for a second and his eyes became distant as if he searched his mind. He must recognize that name. But how?

She looked at Keith. He looked so strong and confident at this moment — his deep blue eyes never wavering. What was he feeling or thinking? She needed to get her father distracted and off his family.

"Daddy, Keith voted for President Arther."

"Ah good," he said. Her father's face brightened and he leaned back into the seat. Politics was always a good distraction for him. "He's been a good president so far."

"Yeah, Katie told me you did volunteer work for the GOP in Clayton."

"Ah, nothing much, just calling people and door-to-door campaigning, but I'm sure it helps. That's what I heard the President say while he was campaigning: 'Every Little Bit Counts.'"

Keith smiled. Katie knew he had suggested that phrase.

"I'd love to get more involved next election," Mr. Morris said.

Keith nodded. "What avenues have you looked into?"

For dinner, her mother served fried chicken, and butter layered collard greens and homemade wheat biscuits, her favorite meal. Katie's father and Keith talked the whole dinner about politics while her mother told her of the three new babies she helped bring into this world over the last semester. Katie looked around the small dining room, with the china cabinet behind them, full of her mother's wedding day china from Belks. Her wedding china wouldn't come from Belks but some upscale store she had never heard of or ordered from France.

This seemed odd, surreal for Keith to be here dining at the table that her grandparents had eaten off of until they died. But in some ways it didn't. Maybe because there was never a moment of breath between Keith and her father. The two were almost like two lost kindred souls.

After supper, Katie and Shelly helped their mother clear the table and wash the dishes. The men's conversation turned to Iran, and from the kitchen her father's laugh floated into the room when Keith said President Arther should get it over with and just drop a bomb on the county.

"I guess Daddy likes Keith," Katie said.

Her mother smiled. "He seems like a nice boy."

"He is," Katie said as her cheeks warmed.

"Are you two dating?" Shelly asked, dumping some bones into a trashcan.

"Shelly, don't pry into your sister's business," her mother said.

Katie put a plate she had just rinsed off in the dishwasher. The ring around her neck lay like a weight against her chest. "We're definitely close."

"What does that mean?" Shelly walked up to her and handed her the plate. "You know we talk every night, and you've never told us about him."

Katie shrugged her shoulders, and put the plate in the dishwasher. If she had told them about him, they would have drilled her every night and she just wasn't ready to introduce her family to him. She had to wait until he'd committed to her before risking her family's ire. "I didn't know what to tell you."

"We tell each other everything."

She mouthed 'tonight.'

Shelly bit down on her bottom lip, but the smile escaped from under her teeth as she nodded.

They finished the dishes and then the girls grabbed their coats and Keith's, heading to the dining room. Katie stopped behind Keith, who rested his chin on the top of two fingers, as her father talked about an educational policy he wanted the federal government to implement. When the conversation didn't subside, Katie put her hand on Keith's shoulder, but he remained focused on her father.

"I think the girls are ready," her father said, leaning back and placing his hands behind his head.

"Yeah," Keith said. He stood, shook her father's hand and promised that they would finish talking later.

Katie took Keith's arm and led him outside, before one more word could be said between the two.

Outside, Katie spotted Jeff walking towards them in a light brown coat and holding a Bible.

"Man." She had forgotten hers at her dorm room. A small pain shot through her. She hadn't touched it since the night she'd first slept with Keith. Katie pushed the thought from her mind. What was done was done and she could always start reading again once she returned to Connecticut.

They took Jeff's mother's car, a white Honda that had some years on it. Keith looked silly crammed in the back, his knees touching the back of the front seat. She held on tight to his hand. Keith was agnostic at best, if not a straight out atheist, but he didn't have any aversion to God. She figured he must not have ever taken the time to contemplate religion, since whenever she said anything about her faith he just listened and never responded. Maybe tonight the Word would open his heart. Please Lord. She swallowed hard. Why did it feel like the words pushed back against her as if God was no longer listening to her? But that couldn't be it. God couldn't hold what she gave him against her since Keith was obviously the one for her.

Jeff drove the car into the parking lot of the two-story light brown brick building that housed Katie's church. Several cars, illuminated by street lamps, filled the parking lot. Behind the church stood the school, which Katie had attended her whole childhood.

They walked into the blue-carpeted fellowship hall that would house the youth meeting. A few fake palm trees stood against the wall next to several rows of folded up metal chairs. Katie glanced around the room. Several of the faces looked familiar. But everyone looked so much younger, like they were still children. She wrapped her arms around her waist. She shouldn't be here. The place that was once a second home, no longer felt comfortable. She had changed. Katie stole a quick glance at Keith. He had the same confident look in his eyes. What could he be thinking? He would find tonight silly, and a complete waste of his time.

"Katie, how is Saint Mary's?" her youth minister asked. His brown hair had a few more gray strands and he had gained some more weight, making him plump.

"Hey Joe, I love it there."

"Well. Good I'm glad you are here tonight." He left them and headed towards a small stage, where waited two acoustic guitars and a small drum set. "Let's get ready to worship," he shouted out, picking up one of the guitars.

Keith watched as everybody walked to the chairs and started clapping their hands in unison to the beat of the music.

"Come on." Katie took his arm and led him to a seat.

Everyone but him started singing, although no one had a hymnal. The group not only sang the words, but several people would sing the repeats in perfect unison, creating different harmonies. They must have been singing together for years. Katie had said she had gone to school with everyone since she was in Kindergarten. Katie took his hands and made them start clapping. Was he that out of place? Must be, he was the only one not singing with raised hands.

As they started another song, Keith leaned into Katie's ear and said, "what is this, a cult?"

Katie turned a sharp gaze to him. He raised his hands. "I was just joking."

She smiled and started singing the words again.

After the song ended, the youth minister set aside his guitar and said, "let's pray." Everyone bowed their heads. Keith looked around. He had been to churches before, but they were more formal, holding to customs that spoke of order. But this group worshiped as if they were celebrating.

The youth minister finished the prayer and then said, "wow, what an awesome day."

And the minister was corny. In fact, he reminded him of Katie's secret admirer. He stole a glance at the young boy, sitting next to his fiancée, but he caught sight of Katie's eyes, noticing the brightness they contained. She was in her element. He dug his hands into his pockets. Religion was something for observance but Katie took joy in the simple songs and sophomoric prayers. Why?

"We've got our college kids back. Does anyone want to come up and share their experiences?"

"Jeff," the youth minister said. Jeff came up to the front, and talked briefly about how he had joined Campus Crusade, and that he helped to start a purity pledge support group for young men.

"The what?" Keith whispered in Katie's ear. The bright look on her face disappeared as a pale color crept over it.

He poked her side. Katie forced a smile, a slight tear in her eye. He dug his hands further. What's up with her? Several more students talked about college, but Katie slid behind him, trying to hide away. Her face slowly gained color but her eyes still looked watery. He'd have to ask her about that later. He shook his head. What could have made her so upset? Was it that silly group her neighbor had started? But what did she care, he'd never let her touch another man. She was his.

Keith slipped his arm from Katie's shoulders as they walked into the house. Katie took in a long whiff of spices. Her mother had made chamomile tea tonight. Memories of her childhood flooded her mind. How many times had she found her mother sitting on the couch, curled up against her father's shoulder, sipping her tea with a splash of lemon?

They walked into the living room and found her parents just as she'd pictured them.

"Looks familiar," Keith whispered into her ear.

Yeah. It did. She had begun the routine with Keith as if they were already married.

"Did you have a good time, Keith?" her father asked as he sat up, turning the volume off the T.V..

Keith clasped his hands in front of his waist, and bent his head to the side. "It was fun. A lot more casual than the church I grew up with."

Her father turned back to the news show, clicking on the sound. "So what do you think about this car tax, the Senate is trying to get passed?"

Keith smiled and walked over to the T.V. The President was on, talking about the tax and Ashley's father, a senator from New York, was next to him.

"Sit down, son," her father said. Keith sat down in a faded plush green chair and finished listening to the clip of Arther's short speech. When Arther was done he said, "they're going to use the money for education, so I don't know how it could go wrong."

Katie rolled her eyes. Those two fell back into the conversation as if it hadn't stopped. Every Thanksgiving, Christmas and family visit would be like this until death parted Keith and her father.

The bedroom door opened, letting in a small stream of light. Soft footsteps sounded on the hardwood floor, only becoming muffled when they reached a pink shag rug. Those steps could be no one's but Katie's. He half laughed to himself. He had not expected his timid girl to be so daring. But here she was. What could this mean? She lifted the sheets and slipped under them, resting her head on his arm. A warmth filled him as she nestled her head on his shoulder and her loose curls tickled his chin - the scent of her strawberry perfume filled him.

"You're breaking the rules," he said, running a finger down her cheek and twirling it in a silky curl.

"I know."

He wrapped her in his arms and pulled her close, her small frame arousing every inch of his body.

"I've wanted to be in your arms all night," she said.

He bit on the bottom of his lip. "Really." She had no idea how her simplest words could arouse so much in him. Moments like this, he desired nothing more than to taste the sweet innocence that covered her like the lavender lotion she spreads on her legs.

"Yeah. I think my daddy really likes you."

"He'll like me more when he meets Arther."

Katie squeezed his shirt. "You're going to introduce them?"

"They'll have to meet before the wedding."

"Yeah." She ran a finger down his shoulder, sending energy through him and reminding him how soothing she could be after a long day of business law lectures; there was so much of this girl he wanted, needed.

"I'm glad my daddy likes you."

Keith caressed her side, sliding his hand under her pajama top to where he wanted it. She stiffened, but he was too aroused to stop. He kissed her on the lips, moving on to her neck and then reaching for her shirt.

"I don't know if we should do this here," she said, scooting away.

Keith yanked her shirt back down. "I guess you better leave then." Katie wrapped her arms around him. In the moonlight streaming through the half-opened blinds, he saw her eyes moist up reminding him that she had been sad tonight, but he never got a chance to talk to her about it.

He ran his thumbs over her cheeks, gazing into her eyes. He had a feeling she was ashamed of what they did, but there was no shame in exploring their passion, especially when no man would ever touch her but him. A silly promise made as a girl was nothing compared to what she needed to give him as a woman. He'd make her understand that.

"What was wrong earlier?"

Katie knit her brows. "When?"

"When that kid, your neighbor was speaking."

"Oh." Katie kissed him, sucking in his bottom lip and running her hands down his chest. What a cunning move, but one she wouldn't get away with.

"Katie." He sat up, and pulled her up as her eyes widened. He placed his hands firmly on her face and made her focus on him, so he could peer as far as he could into her eyes, entrancing her. When she completely stilled, he asked, "Why were you upset?"

"I wasn't."

"I can tell you're lying."

Her mouth dropped open. "You'll think I'm silly."

"Tell me." He took her chin with his fingers, holding her still as his other hand ran to the back of her head. "Do you like that boy?

"I did, but that was before I started dating you."

A smile slipped on her face, but her bottom lip trembled. She was scared. Something inside of him turned at the idea of scaring her, but as his father taught him, just a little bit of fear would breed submission. And he needed to make sure she'd stay submissive, letting him guide her through life to where she needed to be. Just like he would do now.

"Why were you upset?"

"I really...."

"Katie." He paused. "Tell me."

She took a couple deep breaths, letting them stream out from her plump lips. "Don't be mad."

He bent his head to the side. "Why would I be? I love you."

"I." She tried to move her head a little, but he held it firm, so she lowered her eyes.

"Look at me."

She snapped her eyes back to his, they wavered in the moonlight. "It's just I signed the pledge that Jeff spoke about. So, I guess I was a little sad because I didn't keep it." She took his hands. "I'm not sad anymore."

He was right and now to make her understand all they lacked was a legal document. Every day he was making sure they molded into one like preachers often declared a man and wife should be. "I'm the one for you."

She nodded.

"So you have nothing to be upset about since you'll never sleep with someone else."

"I'm not going to."

"Well, I wouldn't let you, you're mine."

Katie lowered her eyes, and ran her fingers over the flower pattern of the quilt. "All right."

And now that she was completely bending to him, it was time to make sure she fully understood what he meant when he said no one was to touch her. "I don't want Jeff hugging you."

Katie grasped his hands on her cheeks. "He's just...."

"I don't want another guy touching you. I would never hang onto some other girl like that."

She smiled. "Okay."

Keith kissed her head. "Now, get out of here. I don't need your father showing up with a shotgun."

Katie slipped from the bed and then out of the room, taking her warmth with her. Keith lay back against the bed, with his hands behind his head. If his father could have seen how he made her bend to his will, maybe then he'd understand, he'd have no problems with Keith slipping into the role he'd designed for him.

Katie took a long sip of her hazelnut coffee as Keith stood from the breakfast table, clenching his plate that contained a few scraps from the Colby cheese and pepper omelet her mother made earlier. He copied her sister and placed it in the sink before he looked her way; their eyes connecting, sending a warmth through her. From the corner of her eye, she saw a smile stretch across her father's face. Keith left the kitchen, to get ready before they took their annual trip to Durham to get a Christmas tree.

Once the door swung closed, she turned to her father, buried behind a newspaper. "So you like him, Daddy?"

Her father lowered the paper. "Yeah, I do. He's very polite, and smart."

A smile widened across her face. "I'm glad you do."

"Come here, baby." Her daddy scooted his chair back and reached for her.

The time had come for questions. She would just play her cards right, like she always did as a little girl. Her daddy would melt. Before they had left New Haven, she had practiced just how to answer her father's questions so he'd see Keith as nothing but a Godly man.

Katie sat on her daddy's lap, wrapping her arms around his neck. He smelled like ink and palm oil soap. She laid her face against his scratchy, unshaven cheek as the feeling of being a little girl washed over her. But she wasn't a little girl, she was an engaged woman. And she would need to stay strong and not crumble if he gave her that fatherly glare.

Her father kissed her and pulled her closer. "I've been quiet about it, but I'm quite curious about the extent of this relationship," he said.

"We like each other."

"Are you dating?"

She nodded.

"Well, I'm guessing it must be somewhat serious, if he came to meet us."

Katie kicked her feet out in front of her. "We've been dating since September."

Her father bent his head to the side and stroked one of her curls. "Does he go to church?"

Katie sat up and looked her father in the eyes. "We go to church every week together. One of the first things he did was quiz me on my faith. I wouldn't date someone who didn't have the same values as me."

"Of course you wouldn't. I trust you, baby." He patted her shoulder.

Katie smiled, feeling her body relax. That was easy to get around.

Her father motioned for her to get up. "You better go get ready."

Katie folded her hands together as she walked out of the room. She didn't feel one ounce of guilt for lying to her father. In the past, she couldn't even lie about accidentally breaking a glass, but now she could lie about something this important. She would have to pray about that later. Hopefully, God would listen to her.

Keith ran his hands down his face and pulled the quilt further up his body. He hadn't told Katie, but he had never decorated a Christmas tree before, and he had never enjoyed chocolate chip cookies with milk so much. Future Christmases with her family would be the same. He was making the right decision for himself. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, but his eyes popped open. Every part of him was energized.

Katie had looked so beautiful as she placed the Angel on top of the tree earlier. The tree lights had reflected in her eyes, and glowed around her, making her innocence stand out more. He was never going to fall asleep. Keith pushed from the bed and walked into the hall.

He wanted to knock on Katie's door and ask her to come downstairs with him, but her father wouldn't approve. Keith headed downstairs to the den in order to turn on the TV, but he stopped, noticing that the light of the adjoining room, a room they used as an office, was on. He walked to it and knocked on the door.

"Come in," he heard her father say. He smiled. He had hoped it was him.

Keith opened the door and walked in. Her father sat at the computer, gazing at a website. He turned to look at Keith and smiled. "Can't sleep, son?"

"Nah, too happy from the day."

The smile on her father's face widened. "Pull up a chair."

Keith sat across from him and glanced at the computer. The image of a white two-story house on stilts filled the page. Apparently, he had been looking up information about beach houses in North Carolina.

"We take a trip every year. You'll have to come with us," her father said.

"I'd love to."

Her father sat back from the computer, put his hands in his lap and turned to Keith. "You like my daughter a lot, don't you?"

Keith smiled. "Yeah, I do, sir."

Her father nodded and bent his head to the side, his eyes narrowing. Keith clenched the arms of his chair. What was that look?

"Tell me, boy, about your walk with God."

Keith took a deep breath. Walk with God. If this man knew the heathen he was - the heathen he had been bred to be, he wouldn't want him around his daughter. But he was a Wilkerson. He could get through this.

Keith squared his shoulders, tracing all the talks he had heard on campus from pastors clenching Bibles. All they said was one needed faith. "Well, sir, I will admit my faith isn't as strong as Katie's. It's much newer." That sounded believable. He would never be able to pass himself as Godly as dear neighbor boy.

"And what do you believe?"

"That Jesus died on the cross for my sins." He swallowed hard.

A smile seeped across her father's face as he turned to the computer. "You have my blessing, son."

Keith exhaled. "Thank you, sir; that means a lot to me." From the moment, he had walked into this simple dwelling, he had wanted to impress Katie's father. Something about the man drew him. Mr. Morris loved his family like they were precious jewels and yet maintained a realm of influence over them. How did he do it? Was it respect? Love? He'd have to figure it out. And he had nothing but his daughter's welfare in mind as he drilled him. What a contrast to what he had always known. Even Arther expected something from him. Part of him wished, he could be that clean-slate boy, Mr. Morris wanted for his daughter. But that could never be. His father would make sure of that.

FOURTEEN

Katie kissed her family goodbye and rushed onto the plane, finding her seat in first class. She sat firmly down and prayed that God would let the trip seem like a second. The amethyst earrings Keith had given her for Christmas dangled from her ears, matching the necklace that looped around her neck. Hopefully, he'd like the cute purple dress she had bought to accent the jewels. In her hands she held her other gifts: a Kindle packed with clean romance novels and a copy of a ticket to New York City, so she could meet his family.

Katie turned on the Kindle, tapped on a book that she had wanted to read for many months, but she rested it in her lap. Three days they had, and then two weeks before school started again. Soon, his lips would caress hers, his hands would run through her hair. Soon he would be all hers again.

Katie walked down the tarmac and stopped as a smile spread across her face. Keith stood at the end holding one white rose. She flung her carry-on over her shoulder, and ran to him, throwing herself into his arms as he spun halfway around, pulling her as close to him as he could. He set her feet on the floor, pressing his lips onto hers.

"Man, we need to get married this summer," he whispered into her ear.

She nodded as she played with the hairs on the back of his neck. They did need to get married soon; the separation had about killed her. All she could think of was him and count down the days until she could hold him again and love him the way he deserved.

She snuggled close to him in the limo that would take her to his family's home. It was her first time in New York City, but she didn't want to look at the tall buildings that encompassed each side of them, the people walking down the streets or the attractions on the sidewalks. She only wanted to look at him, and allow herself to be completely mesmerized by his beautiful blue eyes. She wrapped her arms around him just as her phone began to vibrate. It was probably her father, checking up on her. She would call him later.

Moments later, Keith's phone vibrated. Katie kissed him on the lips, letting the intense emotions only he could produce rise in her as he reached for it. He looked over her head as he answered it. He laughed, moving his face from her lips. "Yeah, she made it in one piece and I have my eyes locked on her."

He said goodbye to her father and hung up. "Missed me, huh?" He laughed and pulled her into his arms. Her mind swirled as his lips found hers. This was what she wanted, and nothing else, just this moment of peace in his arms.

The limo slowed to a stop. "We're here," he whispered - his lips brushing her ear.

Katie turned from Keith to the window. She rolled it down and stuck her head out. Her eyes opened wide. She was expecting a mansion, but she wasn't expecting this: an Old English-style mansion, built with white stone, and brown shutters. Jane Austen would have lived in a house like this. The limo had pulled up around the curve of a driveway made of cobblestone.

The driver reached for the handle. "Ma'am."

"Oh." Katie stuck her head back in the car, and the door opened for her. She slipped out and turned to Keith, who stood with a slight smile on his face.

"Your house. It's old looking."

"It is. It was built in the 1700s by the Baron."

"The Baron?"

"The Baron Elijah Wilkerson. The first Wilkerson in America."

"A great-grandfather?"

"Yeah." He walked up close behind her and placed his hands on her hips as he bent down and whispered, "it will be ours someday."

Her whole body warmed. She would be living here someday as the mistress. It would be like she was royalty.

He kissed her cheek. "Come." He took her hand and led her up the stairs to the front doors with a gold 'W' plaque which split when the door was opened.

The house had a spacious opened foyer with an oakwood grand staircase that led to the second floor. A dark burgundy red carpet accented the light cream color walls, bearing paintings of the family and gold lamps. What must Keith have thought of her home in light of his? He had shown no dislike, but, then again, he wasn't like that.

Keith led her to the parlor. Sitting on the couch with a book on her lap was a small, frail woman, who had shoulder-length pale blonde hair with tips that curled out.

"Mother," Keith said.

The woman put the book down. "Hello, son." She stood from the couch, came to them and slowly kissed him on the cheek.

Katie knit her brows. Mrs. Wilkerson kissed her son like it was a formality instead of greeting her beloved first born. Katie shook her head. She shouldn't be too judgmental not every family was affectionate as her own.

"This is Katie," he said, placing a hand on the small of her back, nudging her forward.

"It's a pleasure to meet you," she said.

Katie shook her cold, frail hand and stared into her empty light-blue eyes. Something flickered in them – something like a warning. A chill rippled over her. Katie shook her head again as if to dismiss the feeling. She was just seeing things; had to be, but his mom seemed like a shell – void, empty, with no emotion. Could she have a mental problem or something?

"Come, sit with me," she said.

Keith led Katie over to the couch and sat on a chair opposite them. His mother asked her a couple questions about the trip and her own family. Mrs. Wilkerson spoke in a quiet, almost subdued voice and her face had a downcast look, as if there was no energy left in her. Keith soon took over the conversation. He told his mother how they met, and Katie would fill in the holes of his story, but Mrs. Wilkerson would only half smile and say, "that is nice, son."

Mrs. Wilkerson opened her mouth, but clamped it shut when the door to the room opened. Keith sprang to his feet, and placed both hands in front of himself. Katie tried to stand up to go to his side, but Mrs. Wilkerson placed a hand on her arm. From behind the door walked in a tall man in a suit, with almost black eyes, and a wrinkled brow.

"Hello, son," he said – his voice held a steady monotone.

"Father, I want you to meet Katie."

He turned his eyes to her. Katie took a deep breath and squeezed the cushion of the chair. The man was an older version of Keith except for the deep dark eyes that pierced through her.

"She is lovely," he said.

Keith smiled and held out his hand for her. Katie inched off the couch and stood next to him. She clasped her hands together. Her fingers were so cold. Why did his father unnerve her? But it wasn't just him, it was both Keith's parents – they came off cold as if they didn't care she was here.

Mr. Wilkerson held out his hand like he was asking her to dance. She placed hers in his – feeling the smooth skin that engulfed her fingers.

"It's nice to finally meet you," he said.

She swallowed hard, but the lump remained in her throat. "It's nice to meet you, too, sir."

"Very polite." He held up her arm and looked her over, making her feel like a horse being assessed for its worth.

She glanced at the perfect row of teeth, but his eyes caught her. They didn't smile back, but held a fixed glare. He didn't even try to hide his displeasure. The smile was a ruse.

"How was the trip?" he asked.

She took a deep breath. Just be polite, and perhaps she could win him over. "It was fine sir, took a little bit."

He nodded. "I thought we would go out to lunch. Do you like Italian?"

"Yes, sir."

"Good. Let's go." He turned and walked out the door, leaving everyone to just stare at his back. He was an odd man.

They went to a restaurant in the middle of downtown Manhattan. Keith explained that Ashley's great-grandparents had started the restaurant, and it was still owned by the family. When they walked in, the host immediately noticed them and welcomed Mr. Wilkerson before leading them to a private room.

Katie ordered exactly what Keith told her to, Veal Parmesan. With her hand she played with the bottom of her dress under the table, watching Keith and his father talk as if they were business partners going over details about how he was doing in school, and the firm. Mr. Wilkerson only addressed his wife once, and her twice. How odd. It was like the women weren't there. Her family had greeted Keith with open arms, letting him into the fold. She would have to talk to Keith later about this, maybe he would say his parents were just like this but really loving inside.

No one paid for the meal. Mr. Wilkerson just stood and the family walked out before parting ways: Keith and his father to the firm and she and his mother went back to the mansion.

Keith rolled his head but the tension in his neck wouldn't release. He knew what his father wanted to talk about. Katie.

The tall glass building, the main hub for Wilkerson Attorney at Law stood before him, slicing into the skyline. He could never gauge what his father was thinking, but it was obvious he was not the least bit impressed with Katie. At least he smiled at her even if his eyes held that unwavering glare. The man was cold and emotionless as a crocodile waiting for its prey. Keith would highlight her submissiveness. That would be his only chance of being able to marry her.

Keith glanced at the empty office next to his father as they made their way through the building. That office would be his soon. The receptionist in the center smiled at him behind her circular oak desk. The tall picture of the firm's founder laid against the wall behind her, with his unwavering dark brown eyes watching his heirs, making sure they followed the path he had laid out before them. Keith shuddered.

They walked into his father's office and Keith shut the door behind him. He sat in a black leather chair opposite of his father's desk and watched as Mr. Wilkerson looked at a document, trying to gauge something about his father's mood, but it was pointless. His father showed nothing, a skill he needed to master.

"What do you think?" He asked.

"She's a cute girl, but you're going to have to convince me."

"What do you mean?" An intense feeling built in him. He clenched and unclenched his hands a few times, but the pressure only built.

"She's not like us. If you want to marry this girl, I need to know she can keep secrets. Because she will see them."

"I can trust her." Keith let his breath out slowly. His father hadn't straight out said no. There was hope.

A smirk crossed his father's face, highlighting his dark unwavering eyes. "Really, then what's your deal with Jeff."

Sullivan had been active. "I...."

"I bet she'd run to her pastor as soon...."

"Look, I'm going to marry her." Keith pounded his hand on the table and then stiffened.

His father glared at him as he dropped the paper, took a quick step towards him and smacked him across the cheek. A sting spread through him, but he didn't even budge, or move his face. Control was the key and he had lost it for a moment.

His father pointed a finger in his face. "You can disagree with me when I'm dead."

His father walked back to his desk and picked up the document. "Now convince me."

Keith glared at his father's back. "I will."

Mrs. Wilkerson flipped through pages of a photo album, taking Katie through the years of Keith's life, pictures of him as a newborn and a cuddly toddler holding a 'Vote for George W. Bush' flag at a campaign event. One picture featured Keith's father and Keith in the arms of a man she recognized but she couldn't place. The man had a huge smile on his face, cuddling Keith as if he was his own son.

"Who's that?" Katie asked.

"William Arther."

"Oh yeah." Katie studied the two young men in the picture. Keith had the same jaw line and broad shoulders like his father. Even back then Mr. Wilkerson had no warmth in his eyes or even showed the smallest joy. But he did look handsome. His black eyes blended in with his dark hair that fell to the side of his head like Keith's did.

"Wilkersons must have always been so good-looking."

"They always marry beautiful people," his mother said.

Mrs. Wilkerson flipped through more pictures, progressing through Keith's different ages. There was a picture of Keith at 10 in a suit, handing out election buttons during a parade, and at 17, working at a call center during an election. But the picture that she found the most interesting was Keith at 22 speaking during a Youth Vote rally at Harvard. The picture caught the essence of a facial expression that made him look so confident, so powerful. He looked like a leader. A future senator.

The parlor door opened, just before Keith walked in.

Katie smiled. "You were a cute kid."

His lips gracefully stretched into that mesmerizing smile. He took off his wool coat and dropped it on a chair before flopping onto the leather couch. "It's always been one of my strong points."

She giggled. Yes, it was.

"Keith, you should take her upstairs, and show her the paintings," his mother said.

Keith nodded and held out his hand for Katie. She stood and took his hand. They walked out of the room and up the grand staircase with a gold railing that shined like it had just been polished. Perhaps it had been. Not one item could be found out of place. No coffee cup on a table left by its user or a newspaper crumpled in a wastebasket. He turned to the right and led her down a long hallway with bare walls until he got to a row of paintings.

Keith stopped in front of the first picture. "I used to play in this hall all the time as a boy. I never really thought about the people in the paintings even though I knew who they were."

Katie read the name 'Baron Elijah Wilkerson.' The painting was of an old man, with no hair, but a well-defined jaw line and deep, piercing black eyes. The man wore a suit with a high collar that almost stretched to his ears.

Keith pointed to the painting. "He came to start over after his wife died, and brought his infant son." Keith pointed to the next picture and Katie read the name 'Elijah Wilkerson II'. This man, too, had a strong jaw line and piercing black eyes, the family traits. "He started the firm."

Keith brought her hand to his chest as he led her down the line of paintings of each heir who'd inherited the firm, telling her their stories; the stories he said he had heard his whole life. One heir was an officer in the Union Army who was given many medals for bravery, and another worked cases that helped shape the country. Katie squeezed his hand. Her Keith was a modern product of an ancient line that spanned centuries and was growing more powerful over time. Where would it go? How would she fit into the equation?

When he got to the painting of his father, he stopped, staring at it for a second before he turned to the empty space next to it. He pointed to the wall. "Someday my painting will be there after I inherit the firm."

He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it. "And our son's painting will be next to mine."

Katie looked at the blank space on the wall. Would their son inherit the strong jaw line that had been passed through the family? She closed her eyes and tried to conjure up the image of their son, but she couldn't see the child, all she could see was the image of the baron.

"What if we don't have a son?" she asked.

"Don't worry about that, there has always been a Wilkerson heir."

Katie's free hand moved to her stomach, thinking of the child that she would someday bear. It felt so empty. "Why couldn't a daughter inherit the firm?"

"Because that is how things are done."

Katie turned a sharp gaze to Keith. His face bore no emotions, but just held a fixed glare as he looked at his father's painting. "What do you mean?"

Keith kept his eyes glued to his father's painting, his gaze moving over the face. But they stopped and she caught a glimpse of something; it was as though the confidence in his eyes, that was always there, disappeared, and was replaced, just for a moment, with a look of fear, but only a second, for his eyes straightened to their normal firm gaze.

"Want to see my old room?"

"Okay."

Katie followed him down the hall — her nerves settling as they left the paintings behind. Keith pointed to a door as he walked past it. "This was Amanda's room." He stopped at the next wooden door with a gold door handle. "And this one was mine."

He opened the door. She chuckled. It figured he would have black sheets on the bed and dark curtains. She looked around the room that was double the size of her bedroom, but not as big as she'd guess a room in a mansion would be. The size must have to do with when it was built. Posters of baseball teams and players lined the wall. A worn kid's glove sat in a glass case on a cherry oak dresser. Above the dresser hung a picture of a baseball team, wearing red and white uniforms.

"You really do like baseball." She looked at him and her mouth dropped open. His eyes had a look of longing as he gazed in the direction of the picture. What was he thinking? He seemed so sad, so unsure.

She walked over to the poster, and the rows of faces. What was so special about this picture? He walked up behind her – one arm slipped around her waist. He pointed to a player wearing the number 20. "There I am," he said.

A slight smile crossed her face. "You played ball?"

"From the time I was eight until my senior year of college." He paused for a second, and chewed on his bottom lip. "I was a pretty good hitter. I even got drafted." His eyes brightened. "I was a late rounder, but at least I can say I got drafted."

"Did the team not sign you?"

The brightness fled from his eyes, and he chewed on his bottom lip again. "Nah, they were going to send me to a minor league team. I didn't sign because I knew I was going to Yale."

"You could have played...."

"Hey, I got another picture for you to see." He walked over to the bed and plopped down before grasping a picture on the night stand.

Katie bent her head to the side. Why didn't Keith want to talk about it? He had changed the subject so quickly. For some reason the whole time they'd been dating he had never told her about playing ball. Shouldn't she have known? Katie walked over to Keith and sat down - the large oak bed creaked with her movements.

The gold-framed picture featured Keith, as a child, sitting on Arther's lap. He had a big smile on his face, as he held up a glove like he was waiting to catch a ball. A little black cap was pulled firmly over his ears. She lowered her gaze, and caught the sight of four pigtails; one set blonde and the other brown. Those must be the top of Amanda's and Arther's daughter's head.

"Arther used to take us to the games all the time," he said. "We had a luxury box, but he'd sit in the stands because I always tried to catch the balls."

"It's a cute picture." A smile seeped across her face.

"Yeah." He set it down and folded his hands in his lap.

Katie sucked in her bottom lip, the taste of her strawberry lip gloss filled her mouth. The image of him as an undergrad wearing his uniform displayed the full muscles of his arms. Muscles she'd spent many nights running her fingers over. "Do you still have your college uniform?"

"Yeah." He chuckled and looked at the oak dresser behind her. "Why?"

Katie brought her knees to her chest. "I always thought ball players looked nice in their uniforms."

His eyes brightened. "Want to see me in it?"

A heat grew on her cheeks as she rested her chin on her knees and nodded.

Keith bit down on the side of his bottom lip as he stood and walked over to a drawer, opened it, and grabbed the red uniform with white letters.

Katie covered her eyes with her hands.

"What are you doing?" Keith asked.

"I want to wait for the full effect."

The sound of rustling fabric filled the air. In a few seconds she would see him in his uniform that hopefully would highlight his strong arms.

"I'm ready."

Katie opened her eyes, and her smile widened. Something warm and sharp ran through her, making her stretch out her toes. He looked so handsome. The fabric of the uniform highlighted the muscles in his arms and his chest. The red contrasted with the dark locks of his hair.

She slid off the bed, walked over to him and placed her hands on his chest. "You look so hot."

"Really," he said as he wiggled his eyebrows.

She opened her mouth to speak but before she could, Keith grabbed her by the hips and yanked her close to him, kissing her passionately — the brim of the hat bumping up against the side of her face.

Katie and Keith laid in each other's arms, giggling over a joke, he had told her, while he twirled a curl around his finger. She wore his ball cap and uniform shirt that fell over her body like she wasn't even there.

"You know, Katie." He ran a finger down her cheek. "If you...."

Someone knocked on the door, making Katie flinch and slide more under the covers.

"Yeah," Keith said.

"Open up." It was his father.

"Okay."

Keith slipped from the bed and pulled on some slacks.

"Stay under the covers," he said before he opened the door and revealed his father.

His father walked into the room and stood in front of the bed, staring at Katie for a few seconds with a smirk on his face. He turned to his son and sat on the bed. "Ellie is in town."

Keith nodded, looking at the floor.

"Arther wants you to take her out, and show her a good time." Mr. Wilkerson looked at Katie, his eyes roving over her. "Take Katie with you."

Katie's stomach flipped. His eyes held that glare, but he smiled at her the same way Keith did right before he asked for sex. Who was this man?

"Arther wants them to be friends," he continued.

"I'll take her to the usual places," Keith said.

"Good." Mr. Wilkerson stood to leave, but before he left, he looked straight at Katie with those glaring eyes one last time, biting on the side of his bottom lip. She pulled the covers up to her chin. "Have a nice time, Katie." He walked out the door.

Katie shuddered. That man could scare a veteran soldier.

"So, are you excited about meeting the president's daughter?"

Katie heard what he said, but her focus was on the closed door.

"Katie." He lay down next to her and ran a hand up her arm.

She turned to him. "I can't wait."

After dinner, they left to pick up Ellie. Katie leaned her head against the window of the black corvette Keith kept in New York to drive when he was in town. She ran her hands over the loose blue jeans he made her wear. The black long-sleeve shirt she wore didn't even accent one curve. Earlier, when she had tried to apply some light lipstick, he had taken the tube out of her hand, and said she looked prettier without her face made up. He handed her a hair tie and asked that she put her hair in a bun. If he wanted to make sure no one noticed her tonight, he would get his wish. Maybe he was afraid she would outshine Ellie.

Keith tapped the top of the steering wheel, not saying a word. His dark-blue narrowed eyes focused on the street in front of him as the yellow lines were swept under the car. Fifteen minutes into the trip, he pulled the car into a parking lot and parked next to a dumpster. Katie looked out the window, noticing the rows of gas pumps, and bright flashing cigarette signs on the glass windows of the store. They were at a gas station.

"Ellie is like my sister," he said.

Katie sucked her bottom lip into her mouth and turned to Keith. His eyes wavered as if he didn't know what to say. Something was going on, but what could it be? Keith never looked scared.

"I know. You've told me that before." She smiled, hoping he would see she believed him although she wondered what he truly meant. If they were really like siblings what could he be afraid of?

He nodded. "I always watch out for her when she comes to town. Kind of a favor for Arther."

"Then what's wrong?"

He took a deep breath and leaned his head against the seat, focusing on the ceiling. "Ellie isn't exactly the nicest person. If she says anything you don't like, just ignore her and...." He sat up and tapped his fingers on the steering wheel. "She'll want me to give her all my attention. So don't get upset, just consider this business." He caressed her cheek with his hand. "Sometimes you've to play games in politics."

"Okay," she said, turning the information over in her head. She rubbed her hands together. The sweat built between her palms. Miss Ellie sounded like a spoiled brat instead of the education-focused girl the press always portrayed her to be.

Keith bent and kissed Katie on the lips, running two fingers down her cheek. "I love you. I always will," he whispered. "Tomorrow, I'll treat you really well. We'll do whatever you want."

"Anything?" She raised her right brow.

"Anything." He kissed her one more time before putting the car back in drive.

Tomorrow, she would ask for him all to herself.

The gate slid open, revealing a long stone driveway that led to the mansion. Arther's mansion was larger than the Wilkerson's, painted white with red oak windowsills. A long, smooth, marble driveway led them to the back garage where they parked the car. They walked in a back door to the foyer, where they met a young man wearing a tucked-in black dress shirt and khakis. He had a smooth face, but it was half-hidden behind glasses.

The man nodded.

"Hey Mike," Keith said as he took Katie's hand and led her to a nearby room. He bent to her ear and whispered, "agent."

Katie nodded and glanced around at the ornate scones decorating the wall. This was the main home of the president. Could he be here somewhere, maybe napping on a bed escaping the pressure of the White House and hiding away here for a quick respite? Was this his favorite room, the parlor? Over the fireplace rested a painting of Arther and his family. She let go of Keith's hand and walked up to the mantle and looked at the pictures of Arther and several dignitaries, but the one she liked most was Keith leaning against a black BMW.

"That was taken the day, he gave me the car," Keith said.

Next to that picture was one of Keith in a red graduation robe, with Arther's arm around his shoulders. Katie squinted her eyes. All the pictures were of Keith and Arther or Arther with some important looking person, but not one of Ellie except for a painting over a brown leather couch. She focused on the light-blue eyes of the girl. Her light-blonde hair curled around her face and reached to her chin, falling in perfect lines.

"Hey, pretty boy."

Katie turned around to see Ellie in a tight black dress and black heels, leaning against the side of the door. In her hands she held two beers. She looked slutty; it wasn't the dress; it was the sneer in her eyes and the sensuous smile.

"Started without me," Keith said.

"Of course, you took forever." She walked up to Keith and handed him a beer. She then gave him a kiss on the cheek. "How's my big brother?" She played with a button on his shirt.

Keith set the beer on a table in front of the couch and placed his hands on her hips. "He's fine, and how are you?"

Katie wrapped her arms around her waist as Ellie removed herself from Keith's embrace and lay on the couch, revealing her legs up to the top of her thighs. Apparently, Ellie was also a flirt besides rude. She batted her eyelashes as if she wanted to draw Keith to her arms. Maybe, she was the second person Keith had sex with, but she couldn't be. They were like siblings. But Ellie didn't look at him like a sibling. She looked like she was challenging him in some way.

Keith motioned for Katie. She walked up to his side, taking his hand. "Hey Ellie, this is Katie," he said.

"Did Daddy tell you to bring your ho?"

Katie's mouth flew open.

"Ellie, be nice."

"I don't have to be nice to her." Ellie took a sip of her beer. "When am I nice to your girls?"

Keith took a deep breath before he walked over to Ellie, leaning over her. "Ellie, this is my future wife."

Ellie took another sip of her beer. "Won't you tell our daddy?"

"Maybe I will." Keith grabbed her arm, yanking her to her feet. "Let's go."

Katie winced at the force he used, but they were like siblings. She shook her head. Ellie deserved it.

"Hey, pretty thing, wait in the hall for a second," he said.

Katie nodded and walked out the door.

A heat boiled in him. The little slut could at least play her part as the president's daughter, but Keith imagined she was fulfilling some duty his father had assigned her. Well, he would fulfill his, too.

Ellie turned to Keith. "What is she, a nun?"

Keith grabbed Ellie's shoulders and yanked her close to him, making her crash against him. "Say another thing to her. Huh!"

"Let go of me." She pushed against his chest, but he gripped her harder, making her bright blue eyes opened wide.

"Don't say anything to hurt my relationship with her."

"Lay off, Keith. Father already warned me, but I don't have to be nice to her."

Keith threw Ellie from him. She stumbled back, flopping onto the couch. Her blonde tresses fell over her wide eyes. Good, now she'd behave.

"Let's go." He headed for the door.

Katie leaned against the wall and took a deep breath before exhaling. She straightened and walked towards the door. She could have sworn she heard a light thud as if something had been thrown against the couch. What could be going on in there? Did Ellie throw something while pouting to get her way? She was sure Keith was telling her to lay off. Some sister. She backed up at the sound of approaching feet. The door opened, revealing Keith with Ellie behind him. Her hair slightly ruffled.

Katie smiled at Keith, but he turned from her and focused on Ellie who fixed her hair in a hall mirror. A harshness filled his eyes.

"Everything alright?" Katie placed a hand on Keith's tense shoulder.

"We're cool." He walked past her and grabbed Ellie's coat from a nearby rack, helping her to slip it on. He then helped Katie with hers.

"He's a perfect gentleman, isn't he?" Ellie said as she made her way to the door. "Just don't ever make him angry." The girl wagged her finger in the air.

Keith just strode past her, not saying a world. Don't worry, she had no plans to.

They pulled up to the back of a club with lime green lights that circled around the building. The pounding of drums filled the air along with an electric techno beat. No one left the car until Mike received a message from someone saying it was safe.

Keith left her behind as he strolled to the club with an arm firmly around Ellie. Katie wrapped her arms around her waist, slowly shaking her head. What was she - Mike's assistant instead of Keith's beloved? He had warned her it would be like this. She just needed to be patient, especially since she would have him all to herself when they returned home. He had promised.

They entered through a backdoor, and waded through a dark kitchen area – as if they knew the way perfectly. No one working in the back paid attention to them. When Keith opened the door, Katie caught the sight of bright green and orange lights that covered the walls. Bright strobe lights protruded from the ceiling, bouncing off the floor.

"Hello, Mr. Wilkerson and Ms. Arther," said a man as they walked through.

Katie went to follow, but the man held up a bar, making her stop. The man's brow crinkled as his eyes roamed over her, probably taking in her attire. Katie wrapped her arms around her waist again and looked over the man's head as Keith left her behind. He didn't even notice. She should have stayed home. Why bother coming, if Ellie wasn't even going to try and get to know her?

"Keith," she shouted out, but he didn't respond.

"She's with me," Mike said as he held up a badge and grabbed her arm.

The man lowered the bar, letting Mike push her through; his eyes never leaving Ellie. Keith got halfway to the bar before he turned. His gaze roamed over the dance floor. So, he finally remembered her. Katie rolled her eyes and allowed Mike to guide her to her fiancé.

"Here," Mike said, before he turned and walked away.

"Where's he going?" Katie asked.

"Don't worry. He'll keep an eye on us," Keith said as Mike disappeared between several girls holding drinks, their eyes following the agent.

A warmth spread through her when Keith took her hand, and guided her to the bar.

Ellie sat on a stool and crossed her legs, while Katie stood by Keith's side. Keith ordered two shots of vodka. Katie planted her elbow on the bar and leaned her cheek into her hand. Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes. He didn't even ask her if she wanted anything, but instantly procured something for Ellie as if he anticipated her wishes. But on other nights he always anticipated hers, and fulfilled her needs. He just didn't get her a drink. She needed to stop being so silly.

Katie looked around the dance floor, watching the couples grind next to each other, holding bottles of beer in the air. All the women wore dresses that clung to their curvy bodies, and showed slim thighs or too much cleavage. She must stick out like a sore thumb. People probably whispered that she was a child who had stumbled into a place for adults. Why did Keith insist on this outfit? She could have at least worn a dress with a high neckline only showing a little chest that fell to the middle of her legs. Surely something that tame wouldn't tamper with Ellie's mood. But, then again, the girl was temperamental.

Keith banged his glass against Ellie's and Ellie yelled out 'yeah right' before they both took their shots. She swallowed, trying to cover the dryness of her mouth. A glass of water would be nice.

"Hey Keith," she said. He looked at her, but Ellie jumped off the stool and wrapped her arms around Keith's waist.

"Take me dancing," Ellie said, moving her hips in time with the music and smiling at him with that sultry sneer in her eyes.

He turned to Katie and pointed a finger at her. "Don't talk to anyone," he said right before he took Ellie's hand and led her out to the dance floor.

Katie fell back on the stool. Perhaps, she should just sit here and fold her hands, staring off into space since neither of them had a need for her presence.

Katie ground her teeth together as Keith placed his hands on Ellie's hips, drawing her near in the same way he did with her. He moved her hips in time with the music. She should drag him away from her and punch Ellie in one of her luminous blue eyes. Katie took several deep breaths and exhaled. It was no use. Every part of her felt tense.

"Little out of place, aren't you?" someone asked. She turned and looked at a man behind the bar who wiped a glass with a white towel. His curly brown hair was cropped short. Light-brown eyes filled with a lightness focused on her. Her cheeks warmed. He was handsome with a lean face.

She nodded and then turned back around. Better not talk to him. That would upset Keith. He had given her strict orders. Ellie played with the back of Keith's hair while he bit on the side of his bottom lip. He always bit his bottom lip when he wanted to have sex with her. He couldn't be thinking about that with Ellie. There was no way those two were like siblings. More like rivals who wanted to sleep with each other. A tear slipped down her cheek. Maybe he was just acting. Please let him just be acting. She brushed away the tear and turned back to the man at the bar. "Yeah, I kind of am."

The man pointed to Keith and Ellie. "I've seen them here many times," he said. "But I've never seen Wilkerson bring another girl."

"I am his fiancée." She held up her hand and revealed the three-diamond ring.

"And you don't mind that?" He raised his eyebrows and motioned his hand in their direction.

She looked at the dancing couple. Keith sung the words of the song in Ellie's face. "They're like brother and sister," she said.

The man nodded. "If I was going to marry you, I wouldn't be dancing with another girl like that." His eyes filled with a harshness as if he saw the injustice of the moment himself. He just didn't understand. Things were complicated. Keith came from power, money, and as he said, one had to play games in politics.

A thought flashed across her mind: I would never hold another girl like that. She closed her eyes to hold the tears in. "He has to keep her happy for his father," she whispered.

"What'd you say?"

She faced the bar. "I didn't say anything."

"Want something? It's on the house."

Katie bent her head to the side. Finally, someone wanted to take care of her needs. "Can I have a Coke?"

"Want a rum and Coke?"

"I'm not 21."

"Ah, then one Coke." The man chuckled and grabbed a hose. He sprayed Coke in a glass, dropped a cherry in it and then handed it to her.

Katie took a long sip of the Coke, letting the bubbly liquid slip down her throat and cool the parchedness. She rarely chose soda, always preferring tea, but this drink soothed her. She took another long sip and focused on the bartender as he spoke with another customer. A gold chain with a ring dangled from his jean's pocket. What could that ring mean? Was there someone he loved and wished to be with at the moment?

She heard feet behind her. Katie looked down at the brown liquid of the Coke. Would Keith even notice if she didn't say one word?

Keith ordered two more shots. The bartender nodded and turned around to a line of bottles behind him. Katie swirled the straw around in her drink and bumped the cherry up against the side of the glass. Keith's fingers ran down the side of her face. Her cheeks tingled with his caress. She looked at him and smiled, but he turned his attention back to Ellie when the bartender set the drinks in front of them.

Ellie took her shot, set it down and then yelled out, "Hey sexy."

The bartender stared at her stone cold, with a glare in his eyes. "A sex on the beach?"

Mr. Bartender probably had a thousand stories he would love to sell to a gossip magazine.

"Yeah," Ellie said as she licked her bottom lip.

The man's mouth crinkled as he turned for a long line of bottles.

"Hey, Katie," she heard Ellie say. Katie looked up. Ellie had her arms wrapped around Keith's waist as she leaned her cheek against his chest. A glare filled his eyes.

"I'm going to steal him. Do you mind?" Ellie smirked.

Katie turned back to the glass.

"Hey, I said something to you." The taps of heels grew closer. Musk filled her nostrils at the same time well-manicured red nails tapped the bar.

"I don't care," she said.

"What? That I said something to you?"

"No, you can have him." Katie bit down on her straw, and took a long sip, but the cool drink tasted like acid at the moment.

"Want to dance, Katie?" Keith asked.

She looked at Keith who stared straight at her with his hands folded in front of his waist. His brows knitted. She shook her head and turned back to her drink. He walked over to the opposite side of her, bent to her ear and whispered, "Remember, you're the one I love."

"I'm fine." She brushed him away.

He kissed her cheek and then asked the bartender for a dogfish.

"Let's go dance," Ellie said.

Keith led Ellie to the dance floor, but focused over her head and kept about a foot between them. Ellie stepped closer to him, tilting her head to the side, but he just took a step back. The girl stopped moving her hips and said something to Keith. He glanced in Katie's direction before bending his head to the petite blonde in front of him, shaking his head.

Ellie turned from him and rushed back towards the bar. "This place blows tonight," she said.

She scooted in next to Katie, but looked towards the dancing crowd. Ignoring her, Keith grabbed his phone, pressed a button and put it back in his pocket. He turned to Ellie as he took Katie's hand, resting both of their hands on her knee. Mike was by their side in a minute.

"Keith, give me some money?" Katie asked.

Keith grabbed his wallet. "How much?"

She looked at the bartender who wiped the counter - his eyes focused on his task as beads of sweat dripped down his cheek. So many questions about him filtered through her mind. But she would never have a chance to ask. She could, though, leave him with a good impression of her instead of the shy girl jilted by her future husband. "Give me a hundred."

He knit his brow as he handed her the money. She snapped it from his hand and walked over to the bartender.

"Hey, thanks for listening." She handed him the money.

The bartender smiled. "You're welcome. I hope he's good to you." He took the money and placed it in his pocket.

"He will be." A heat crept over her cheeks as she turned back towards her small group. Maybe Keith would wonder about the bartender and be more attentive the next time she was forced to go out with Ellie. He needed to know just what he could lose.

"What was that about?" Keith asked when she returned to them.

"He gave me a free Coke," she said, stepping around him, but he took her arm and swung her back to face him.

"What did he say to you?"

"Keith, he just gave me a free Coke and made sure I was alright. Nothing more. I made it clear I was your fiancée."

He narrowed his eyes and glared at the bartender. Katie took a step back. "Keith," she ran a hand down his cheek. "It was just a Coke."

Keith took her hand as his other arm wrapped around her back and rushed her out of the bar, not saying a word.

The heat hit her cheeks defrosting them as they stepped into the foyer of Arther's home. Keith had not said one word to her on the way home, but Ellie kept asking her questions about the bartender, trying to glean information. But what could she tell the girl, he had focused on her needs never once saying a word about himself. She could have sworn Keith had gripped the steering wheel the whole trip home as if the whole conversation unnerved him. But it was hard to tell since Ellie jumped in the front thus regulating her to the back. That couldn't be it. One conversation would never make him jealous.

After a brief visit to the restroom, Katie followed the sound of a drum beat roll. She walked into a room filled with a large screen LCD T.V with various pictures of bands flashing across the screen like a PowerPoint presentation. Small round speakers filled each ceiling corner, making sound come from all directions.

Keith lay shirtless on a black leather couch, holding a beer and talking to Ellie about the club. Sweat glistened over his chest, matting the dark hair. Ellie swayed her hips to the music – a black slip flowed to the middle of her thighs, making her skin look like coffee creamer. Could she not find anything else to wear?

A fire burned in the fireplace, creating a nice glow accented by a few lit candles shooting the scent of pine into the air.

"Hey Katie, Ellie is going to loan you a nightgown," Keith said, pointing to a door. "It's in the bedroom."

Katie walked into the room. Lying on the bed was a white silk slip. She picked it up and held it to her body. A gown that only fell to Ellie's upper thigh fell to her knees. She put it on and rubbed the silkiness against her stomach as she looked around the room. It must be Ellie's because all the pictures featured her, Ashley and Amanda, but there were none of Keith or her father. The room contained a queen size bed covered in red silk sheets and black drapery that hung off the bedposts. Someday she'd be able to decorate a room like this instead of the plain wood beds and grandmother quilts her family owned.

"Hey puritan, get out here," Ellie yelled.

"I'm no puritan," Katie mumbled. She walked to a mirror with a gold border and took out the hair tie, letting the hair tumble down. She played with it a second, trying to make the curls look perfect. She sprayed some perfume on her skin. Turning around, she watched her hair swish behind her. Keith loved her in white. He always said it made her innocence radiate. Only Keith could find her innocent after all the things he had taught her. Her cheeks warmed just with the thought of how he would make his lips lightly trail her neck. Best not think of that. She left the room.

Keith's eyes immediately fixed on her and he bit down on the side of his bottom lip. Perfect, he would focus on her now, ignoring the black nymph who danced in the middle of the room.

Keith held out his hands for her. She sat on the edge of the couch just in front of his waist, letting him immerse his hand under her curls, sending a warm shot through her.

Ellie sat on the edge of a black leather chair and nibbled on the top of a beer bottle. "She is pretty, Keith."

"And she's all mine," he said.

Katie looked into his dark blue eyes, placing her hands on his chest. "Are you all mine?"

A smile crossed his face. "Of course I am."

Ellie busted out laughing.

"What, Ellie?" Katie asked. Her hand curled into a fist. She would love to punch those full lips, and add a black eye to match that slip. That girl grated every inch of her.

"Sorry babe, but you're going to have to share him with his fathers."

"That's different," Keith said.

Ellie placed the bottle on her knee. "Is it?"

Katie ran a hand down Keith's arm. What could she be talking about? No father owned his children. She looked at Keith but he glared at Ellie. That line must have meant something.

"Let's have fun," Keith said as he sat his beer down, got up and walked over to the MP3 player. He switched the song to a much faster one. The words ran together so fast that Katie couldn't understand them, but they knew them since they shouted them out at each other. Katie sank back into the couch and crossed her arms. Forgotten again.

The bottles from the twelve-pack Keith had placed on the bar disappeared from the carton and were dumped into a trashcan. Katie curled into a ball. Keith's and Ellie's perfect speech long ago began to slur and now both stumbled over each other as they danced and talked. Not once had Keith offered her a drink, or seen to any of her needs. If there was only a bartender here. What would her fiancé do, if she let Mr. Bartender drop his arms around her like the way he did with Ellie? She could look at the bartender biting on the side of her bottom lip like Keith. Keith would probably punch him.

"Ouch," Ellie said as she fell to the floor, followed by Keith. They both busted out laughing.

Katie walked over to Keith. He lay on the floor staring up at the ceiling shaking his head - his chest rising and falling with each deep breath. He probably didn't even notice her. They were both going to be sick.

Katie went and got two glasses of water from a small kitchen on the second floor. When she came back, Keith was still on the floor, but there was something different about his face. His eyes were glossy and roamed the ceiling as if he was trailing something. She looked at the ceiling, but there was nothing up there. Ellie sat on top of a chair, rocking back and forth.

"Ellie, get down you're going to fall," Katie said.

Ellie sneered at her. "Go to bed."

"Yeah, go to bed Katie." Keith sprang off the floor and came running to Ellie. He took her hands and dragged her off the chair. When her feet hit the floor; he moved her hips with his, shouting something out, which sounded like Latin, but Katie couldn't tell.

Tears brimmed at the edges of her eyes. She would find out later what was going on even if she had to drill Keith. She set the glasses down and turned to leave, but Keith ran to her and wrapped his arms around her, pinning her arms to the side.

"Where you going, pretty thing?" Keith's free hand cupped her hip. "Katie ever notice how blue your eyes are? How innocent looking?" He raised his hand in the air over her head and reached for the ceiling. "They're so blue." He fixed his eyes on his hand.

Katie tried to turn around, so she could fully look at Keith, but his arm held her still. "What is wrong with you?"

He bent down to her ear and started whispering something in French.

"What are you saying?"

"Let's do something," Ellie shouted.

Keith spun Katie around and flipped her over his shoulder.

"Keith," she screamed, planting both hands on his sweat filled back. The floor sped from her as Keith raced out of the room. She clenched onto the bottom of Keith's pants - her pulse pushed through her, as tears slipped down her cheeks. Please God don't let him drop me. If he did she would fall right on her head. Katie ducked her head to avoid a wall as Keith turned a corner too fast.

He raced down the stairs making a scream slip from her. He didn't even notice, or care. He was literally out of his mind. They must have taken something while she got water. But Keith didn't take drugs. She had never seen one evidence of it and she lived with him. But what could be going on? What if he did and he hid it from her?

She closed her eyes. Please God. Please. I want to go home. Something moist and cold covered her, stabbing at her skin. She gasped and swallowed water. She pushed to the surface and coughed. Her lungs burned as she fought for air.

Keith pulled her against his strong body. She shoved her hair out of her face and glared at Keith who laughed as if he'd just heard the best joke. His bangs covered his eyes, just slightly revealing the wildness in them.

"What is wrong with you?" She pushed hard on his chest, but he clenched her tighter. Ellie wrapped her pale arms around them, making her feel as if the air fled from the pool room. She gasped but couldn't bring any air into her burning lungs. She was trapped and these two were going to suffocate her. Every part of her tensed as a pair of feminine fingers ran down her side, curving over her hip. She touched her like Keith did before he wanted something.

"Hey, Katie," Ellie said, her voice husky.

"You two are on something." What could she do? She was not going to stand here between these two with this girl touching her. Keith kissed her cheek, letting his lips trail down her neck. She gagged.

Play along. Do that. Katie caressed the bottom of Keith's waist right above his pants line. His arms loosened a little.

"Hey." He bit down on the side of his lip.

Katie bent down in the water until her head was fully submerged. She kissed his stomach. Ellie caressed her shoulders, letting her fingers run down to the small of her back, leaving a stabbing sensation in their wake. This girl was sick. When she felt Keith's arms go completely loose, she swam from him and pulled herself out of the indoor pool. She ran to a table and latched onto the pole that held it up and hid behind a chair. Ellie and Keith looked around the pool, arms in the air.

"Katie," Keith called out.

She slipped more behind the chair.

They got out of the pool. Ellie leaned against Keith who guided her out of the pool room.

Katie sat on the chair and looked at the calm water, tugging at the nightgown and trying to drain out some of the liquid that had soaked into the fabric - a chill spread across her skin as the air hit it. She wanted to go home – to be safe in her bed. She looked at the door Keith and Ellie had walked through. There was a trail of water. Did Keith notice the way Ellie had touched her? The guy who had warned Ashley to leave her alone, didn't seem to mind that Ellie held her like she was the girl's lover. It had to be whatever he was on. He would never act like that normally. Ellie was the problem. Not him.

She stood, and took slow steps, keeping her eyes on the drops that were splattered all over the floor. She followed them back upstairs and to another room with a fireplace. She leaned against the rail of the door. Keith and Ellie laid on their stomachs and spread out before them was a long row of Legos and a wide green bottom.

Squinting her eyes, she watched as they fumbled through the pieces and placed them on the green bottom, arranging them. She walked in and sat on a black leather chair; they didn't even notice her. The Legos took the shape of a foundation for something in a green, blue, red order and every tenth piece was yellow. She curled up in a ball and rested her head on the arm of the chair and her eyes grew heavy. Maybe soon Keith would want to leave.

Strong arms lifted her up and cuddled her close, like a baby. She opened her eyes just a slant, and saw a pair of blue eyes under a wrinkled brow looking down at her.

"Go back to sleep, pretty thing."

"What are you doing, Keith?" she whispered and wrapped her arms around the neck of the eyes. She was laid in a bed of soft flowers as black waves engulfed her. Keith wrapped his arms around her, telling her how much he loved her and to forget tonight. She would forget everything for him.

Katie opened her eyes to a black mass that lay over her face. She rubbed the soft fabric of the sheets and trailed to what she knew was Keith's hand. Pulling the sheets down, she spotted a poster of Babe Ruth, resting against a navy blue wall and one of a BMW on the door.

Keith half lay on top of her with an arm completely wrapped around her. She squeezed herself from his arm and stepped out of the bed. Katie opened a drawer of a red oak dresser, grabbing a pair of black boxers and a white t-shirt. This must be a room for Keith. It had him written all over it. She walked out of the room into the adjoining sitting room and stopped.

In front of her sat a beautifully arranged castle made of Legos. It had a drawbridge, balconies and two little people standing in one of the towers. She walked up to it and placed a finger on the girl piece. Someone, probably Keith, had used a marker and colored their hair brown, and their arms were stretched out as if they were holding hands. How could they do this? How long had they lain there, creating such an intricately designed castle?

"I'm always impressed with their Lego masterpieces," said a deep voice.

Katie looked up and took a step back. Leaning in the doorway with a coffee cup in his hand was Keith's godfather. She smiled, as her form begin to shake. He was a tall man with light brown hair, a wrinkled brow and deep blue eyes that held a lightness.

She placed her hands behind her back, wiggling her fingers together when he set the mug down on a table and walked over to her.

Katie tensed as he placed two hands on her hips and said, "you really are a pretty thing."

She giggled. She couldn't help it. "Did Keith get that from you?"

"He gets many of his mannerisms from me. I'm glad I finally get to meet you. I've heard so much about you. You really are such a lovely young girl."

The President of the United States had just called her beautiful. She looked to the door, hoping Keith would wake up. What did one say to the President when you are standing in front of him in a pair of boxers and a t-shirt?

"Hey, Katie." He bent to her ear. "I'm a father before I'm a president, so don't be shy."

She turned back to him.

"You love my son."

She nodded, her cheeks growing warm, feeling the blush color her cheeks.

"Good, then you have my heart."

"My parents really like him."

His smile widened. "After you two are married, I'll have to get your father more involved in the party."

"You will!" She turned to the door as she placed a hand over her mouth.

"He needs to get up anyway."

She turned back to him and listened to him speak focusing on his words until the bedroom door opened and Keith came out pressing down on his head – his hair flowed in several different directions.

"There you are, Katie," he said.

She held out her hand, but he wrapped his arms around her waist and leaned his chin down on her head.

"Good morning, son." Arther ran his fingers through Keith's bangs straightening them out, caressing his head like he was his beloved son. "Katie, I've been fixing his hair since he was a baby." He paused and took a step back from them. "My William."

Keith leaned over her and kissed her neck; his hand caressing her hip just like Ellie had done last night. Memories filled her mind. He never once said a word about his behavior and she never had a chance to ask. She needed to know and he promised he would do anything she wanted today. He would tell her the truth. If there was a problem, she would help him. She would always help him.

"Keith, can we talk?" she asked.

Keith placed two fingers on her lips. She stared at the ceiling. Maybe he would want to talk after they were done, but when it was over; he just got out of bed and put on some slacks.

"I'm not tired," he said.

She pulled the sheets up over her breasts and sat up. "I want to talk."

He kissed her head. "And, I want to talk to Arther."

She placed her feet on the floor, but he placed his hands on her shoulders and laid her back down.

"Go to sleep, pretty thing. We'll talk tomorrow," he said before he straightened and walked out of the door.

A couple tears slipped down her cheeks. He was avoiding the issue. She just knew he was. They would never talk about last night. Katie rubbed the diamonds of the ring. What would she do, if he recreationally used drugs? She couldn't leave him because that would break her heart into pieces, but last night couldn't happen again. He needed to understand how she felt.

Keith headed straight to Arther's library. He knocked on the door and opened it when he heard Arther call out his name. Arther sat on a light-brown leather chair with his feet on an ottoman, reading the USA Today. A Cuban cigar burned in an ashtray – the smoke rose to the ceiling in a smooth stream.

"I can't believe people read this garbage," he said. "'President's federal car tax will hurt the small man.'"

Keith sat across from Arther. "Do you like her?"

Arther closed the paper - his dark-blue eyes focusing on him as a slight smile slipped on his face. "We both like her."

"Then what's the problem?"

Arther looked back at the paper, shaking his head. "That's your father's business not mine. I don't care who you marry."

Keith pointed to his chest. "I have given him everything. My whole life. Why is he doing this?"

"He has a lot invested in you."

"She loves me."

"She's a smart girl, although her grades wouldn't show it."

"What?" Keith's fingers dug into the side of the armrest. How much did they know about her and her family? But wouldn't their so-called research show how submissive she was - how he could make her bend to his will with the simplest words?

"Ah, you didn't know she failed all but one class." Arther smirked.

"You two have been spying on her."

"We know more about her and her family than you do," Arther said.

Keith took a deep breath and leaned back in the couch. They probably did. Right down to the fact that she liked to paint her toenails pink and wear flowered cotton panties.

"She has no skeletons; neither does her family; I swear I've never seen such religious people," Arther said.

"That's your base."

Arther nodded, set the paper aside and folded his hands in his lap. "Do you think she'll fit into our plans for you?"

Keith looked to the side. How could she not? She was the opium that kept him calm – provided some relief from the pressure of his life. He would have no mistress as long as Katie was his wife? He looked back at Arther. "Better than Ashley. Ashley would end up in a tabloid."

Arther chuckled. "She would. Your father was never going to let you marry her."

"I can trust her, too," Keith said.

"She barely even knows you. Maybe that's the problem."

"I'm sure my mother knew my father real well before they married. They, what, dated a month?"

Arther shook his head again as he picked up the paper, and opened it, burying his face behind it.

"She just needs to be trustworthy." Arther lowered the paper. "Or made that way."

Keith nodded. He would have to prove that they could trust her – the girl who wouldn't even do one thing wrong unless he wanted her to. He stood from the couch and slowly rocked back on his heels. How could he make them see her as trustworthy? He stopped rocking, looked straight at Arther and said, "she'll be trustworthy. I'll find a way to prove it."

He then walked out of the room, back to Katie. He opened their bedroom door. Katie had buried herself under the covers. He took the top of the sheet and pulled it down until he saw her eyes staring back at him. What a beautiful pair of eyes. They still contained a touch of innocence even though he taught her to do things, no Godly Christian girl would even think about.

He pulled down the cover further, revealing her succulent red lips. Her lipstick had smeared slightly to the side, like it usually did when he was very passionate with her.

"Do you want to talk now?" she asked.

He smiled and sat next to her on the bed. "Shoot, Katie."

"You know I'm not going to judge you."

He tilted his head to the side.

"You two were on something last night," she said.

"We were drunk."

She sat up from the bed. "I'm not stupid, Keith. I know you were on something. Now what were you on?" Her blue eyes flashed sparks.

Keith crumbled the sheets in his hand – the heat rising in him. "How do you know? Huh? Have you seen someone on Charlie, crank? No, I bet you haven't. Your images come from movies."

Her eyes widened and she shrank back into the bed, her face losing its color. "I'm sorry, Keith."

He had been too harsh. He turned from her. "Do me a favor."

"What's that?"

"Tell people Ellie is a wonderful person."

She rolled over on her side and looked at the wall. "There you go, thinking I'm stupid again." She paused and took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "Of course, I would never say something. I know it could hurt Arther's image and I like him."

Keith caressed her hip, trying to smooth out some of the tension in her. "I don't think you're stupid."

"But you don't trust me."

"I trust you, but Katie, I was only drunk. You need to learn to trust me." Keith lay down next to her and rolled her over so she faced him. "I love you." He kissed her nose.

She gave him a faint smile and then buried her head into his chest. She probably didn't believe him, but she had learned never to approach the subject again. That was a good sign. Maybe he should tell his father. Show a little anger and the girl's strength crumbled.

FIFTEEN

Katie stood at the edge of the tarmac, playing with Keith's shirt as he promised to send her a kiss on New Year's Eve. She kissed his cheek before turning to get on the plane but he took her arm, stopping her, and then pulled a brown envelope from inside his coat pocket. "It's for your dad," he said.

She opened it. Inside was a picture of President Arther speaking and in the background stood Keith and Ellie next to each other. Written across the picture was, "Thanks for your dedicated support Mr. Morris. Can't wait to meet you, Will."

Katie jumped into Keith's embrace, wrapping her arms tightly around him. "My father is going to be so happy. I love you so much."

He kissed her on the head. "You better get going."

She turned from him and held his hand as she stepped through the tunnel, finally letting go at the last possible moment. Soon, she would be with him again, but now she couldn't wait to see her father.

Katie stood in the doorway of her family's den. Her father watched the news while reclining on the couch. The show would be over soon and then she would give him Keith's present. What would he say? He would be excited and love Keith even more. Her mother sat opposite of her father, with a book on her lap, reading. The scene looked idyllic, the perfect image for a painting of a modern day family. She would cherish these moments and seek to reinvent them when she had her own family. Keith would be a great father just like President Arther.

She squeezed the top of the envelope. She missed Keith - the ache for him was painful. Only two weeks more and then she would be sleeping in his arms every night, waking up to his sweet kisses on her eyelids.

"How long have you been standing there?"

She blinked, and lifted her gaze to her father, who held the remote control. He must have just turned the television off. She walked to him and sat next to him.

"Daddy, I have something to tell you."

Her father smiled. "Please tell me you're going to marry that boy."

"Daddy," she said through a giggle. "It's too soon."

"Yeah, it is, but I like him."

Katie stared at her father's eyes. They were about to get wide. "Keith got you a present." She handed him the envelope.

"He did? What a nice boy," her father said.

Katie held her breath as her father opened the envelope and pulled out the picture.

His eyes widened before he jumped to his feet. "How did he get this?"

Her mother came over and glanced at the picture. "Oh my," she said, placing a hand to her lips.

Katie stood and pointed to the figures standing in the background. Her father's eyes followed her finger as he brought the picture closer to his face.  
"Is that...?"

"He's his godson. Daddy, they're very close."

He lowered the picture. "Are you saying I had a child in my home that close to the president?"

Katie's smile widened.

"Wow," he said.

"I'll be back." Katie walked to her room and came down a few seconds later with a picture Keith had emailed her. The picture featured her kissing Arther on the cheek while they stood on the roof of the offices of Wilkerson Attorney at Law. She handed the picture to her father. "You'll like this one better."

His mouth dropped open. "You met him?"

"I spent two nights at his house."

A light pinkness seeped into her father's pale cheeks. "What's he like?"

"He is so charming daddy, and loving. He loves Keith like he was his own son."

Her father placed the picture on top of the other one, and he reached to his daughter's cheek, caressing it.

"I love him, daddy."

"I'm glad. There aren't many fish like Keith in the pond."

Yeah. Keith was the best thing that could have happened to her. "I best go call him. He wanted to hear about your reaction." She kissed her father on the cheek and ran upstairs to get her phone.

Keith reclined on his bed, tossing a baseball between his hands. His cell phone lay on his lap. When was the girl going to call? She was supposed to give her father the present five minutes ago. Every part of him felt tense. A heat filled him. He hated being at home. The large Regency mansion never held any of the warmth, comfort or joy he found at Katie's home. The expectations of his future weighed on him here. He swore every time he walked to his room, the portraits of his ancestors glared at him, reminding him every Wilkerson heir had achieved success and he'd better not be the first failure.

He looked up when he heard a knock at the door. "Come in," he said.

His father walked in with a sharp glare in his eyes. What was his problem now? Keith sat up, gripping the ball he held in his hands.

"You made inquiries at the church for the summer," he said.

"Yes, sir."

"Why did you do that?"

"Because I'm going to convince you. I just haven't figured out how yet, but I promise you I'll make sure she's trustworthy."

His father's lips twitched in a snarl as his eyes narrowed. "You're not going to be around this summer."

Keith clenched the ball. "What do you mean?"

"It's about time you started becoming the man you're meant to be. I'm sending you and Brandon to Colorado."

Keith took a deep breath. He wanted to throw the ball at one of those dark-brown eyes. "May I ask why?"

"You two are going to a rehab center there."

Keith looked up at the ceiling. Control. He needed to remain in control. If he let his father see his anger, he would pay.

"I want you off of it all. I can't have my heir dying of a drug overdose."

Keith nodded.

"Don't say a word to Katie."

"Yes, sir."

His father left the room. Keith threw the ball hard against the wall. It bounced off, hitting a lamp in the room and shattering it. He sank down on the bed. Now he had another problem to deal with. How could he explain his sudden disappearance to the girl he loved? But, then again, she wasn't that hard to fool. He picked up his phone and pressed the button for her number.

Katie picked up her cell and was about to punch the button for Keith's number when it rang. She pressed 'accept' and placed the phone to her ear. "Impatient, aren't you?" she said.

"I just wanted to hear your voice."

Katie stopped, and bent her head to the side. Something was wrong. Instead of confidence, she heard dread in his voice. "Keith, you're...."

"Do you love me?"

"I do. What's wrong?" Katie gripped the phone. Had his father said something to him about the relationship? Was he calling to put things on hold? No, that couldn't be it. Keith would fight for her.

"How much do you love me?"

She looked at her father, who stared at her with his eyebrows arched. She walked out of the den to the living room and sat down on the couch. "I love you more than anyone on this earth."

"Will you never leave me?"

"No, I've already told you that."

"Would you do anything to help me accomplish my goals?"

Hadn't she already proven it? She went against all her beliefs for him. "Isn't that what married couples do?"

"I wish I could see your eyes right now."

"Why?"

"I just do." He took a deep breath and released it in a smooth stream. "My father wants me to go to London this summer to take some international business classes, and intern with a friend there."

"That will be a great opportunity for you." A calmness flooded through her. Was that all that was wrong with him? Maybe he was afraid about them being apart?

"It means we can't get married this summer."

Katie smiled. "Well, we'll get married later."

"Yeah."

"Keith, my father wants to talk to you, and thank you for the picture."

"Was he shocked?"

"Yeah, but he's glad he got to know you first. I'm going to give him the phone."

"Okay."

Katie walked back to the family room. Her father sat on his leather chair, his worn copy of A Portrait of an Artist in his hands. He turned a page slowly, but focused on her. His eyes wavered. If Keith had ever needed someone, he needed the man before her.

"Is he okay? You look so worried?" her father asked.

"He's fine."

Her father took the phone and said hello – his face brightening with each sentence he spoke. She sat on a recliner, laying her head on a soft knitted pillow.

"Yeah, it's kind of a surprise, but you know what son...."

Katie glanced at the clock. Those two would probably talk all night. She pushed herself from the chair and made her way to her bedroom, laying on her bed and snuggling a koala bear Keith had bought her. The scent of Keith's creed royal cologne floated all around her. Her father always wanted a son, and Keith needed a godly father figure. She closed her eyes. Please Lord, let him lead Keith to You. Let him show Keith a true man, dependent on You. Once again the words seemed to bounce back at her. Maybe she was just misinterpreting things. The Lord always promised to be there for his children.

Katie flipped her hair into a slight twist and pinned it to the back of her head. She would work on her hair later. She walked from the bathroom over to the living room where Keith sat, holding a present from her father. Tomorrow was Keith's graduation from law school. Her family had been invited but they couldn't attend, due to her father's teaching obligations, so he had sent a gift instead. She knew what the present was, but would Keith like it? A Bible.

"You've been staring at that present for five minutes, aren't you going to open it?"

"I know." He chuckled. "I'm just nervous. It's not every day a guy gets a gift from his future father-in-law."

Katie ran her hands through his hair. "Just remember it comes from my father."

Keith slipped his fingers under the tape and pulled the paper apart, revealing a black leather Bible with Keith's name inscribed on the front. He knit his brows as he opened the cover.

Katie looked over his shoulder and read: For nineteen years I've prayed Katie would find the right man. Since February, I've been thanking God for answering my prayers.

Keith's eyes lit up, clenching the Bible in his hands. "This is the most meaningful gift someone has ever given me."

He stood and went to their room, calling her father. Katie followed him a couple steps and stopped in the doorway.

He seemed so happy. Her father was wise. She watched as they talked, wishing the moment wouldn't end. After his graduation, she would be leaving Connecticut for home and in the fall she would attend UNC Chapel Hill with her sister; promising she'd do better with her grades this next school year. Maybe she would since he wouldn't be so close; and that closeness made her want to spend every moment with him. But no matter what she couldn't stand to be in Connecticut without him. If she could only go with him to New York?

Keith stayed in town until the weekend, when her family came. Keith took them to the airport, and he held her tightly as her family waited to board the plane. She cried in his arms, and he wouldn't let her go even when the stewardess said last call.

Mrs. Morris walked up to her. "We better get going," she said.

Her mother took her hand, tugging on her arm. Katie looked into his soft-blue eyes, and full lips. They had shared a kiss earlier away from her family, but she needed to feel them one more time. Who cared what her mother thought? She stood on her tiptoes, planting a firm kiss on Keith's lips. He stood there, not moving – arms limp around her waist. Must be scared of what her father would say.

Her mother spoke. "Katie, we must...."

Keith took her by the head and stared into her eyes. "I'm going to call you every night. I promise."

An unsteadiness grew in his usual confident eyes. "Are you okay?" she mouthed.

"Remember, I love you, more than anyone." He kissed her hard with a fierce passion and then let go of her. She stumbled back, the break was sudden, harsh.

Katie focused on Keith as her mother led her away. What was wrong with him? He leaned against the wall with slumped shoulders, like he was never going to see her again. Please God, let the summer end soon.

The next day, Brandon and Keith walked into the rehab center. He blinked his eyes at the brightness of the peach wall. Just peachy. Couldn't his father have found something a little less bright? Light gray seemed more fitting, but one must keep the crack heads' spirits up. He turned to his father and Arther holding out his arms. "Here I am."

Arther patted him on the shoulder. "We've all done this and come out fine."

"Be a man, Keith," his father said.

Keith's body tensed as he curled his hand into a fist. He wanted to punch the man in front of him. His father chuckled, obviously realizing how he felt. He always did that, encouraging his anger, pushing it forward, but then forcing him to control it and use it to manipulate people. Maybe he liked what he saw.

Keith turned to Arther. "Have Sullivan keep an eye on Katie. I don't like that Jeff. I know he'll try something with me out of the picture."

Arther patted Mr. Wilkerson on the back. "See, he's already turning into you."

A wry smile crossed Mr. Wilkerson's face. "I want to see more."

SIXTEEN

Katie leaned her head on the couch, and reread the poem, "Love's Sweet Kiss." She smiled, feeling a warmness spread through her. Keith had such a sweet kiss. It had been three days since she had last seen him and every part of her longed to be wrapped in his arms. How could love take complete control over someone?

Keith had kept his word and called every night, and they would talk for hours, losing themselves in each other's voices, planning their lives together. She set the book down and picked up another book she was reading. The vibrations of her phone interrupted her. She picked up her phone and answered. She smiled closing her eyes, waiting for his smooth voice to soothe her. "Hey."

"Hey, pretty thing," Keith said in an almost quiet voice.

"Keith?" Katie sat up, and brushed a tendril of hair from her face away.

"Yeah."

She put the book down. "Are you okay?"

"I'm just tired."

She nodded. His voice almost slurred with the low pitch he spoke in like he dragged his words across a rugged surface. "Well, we don't have to talk long tonight."

"No, I really want to hear your voice. What were you doing?"

"I was reading."

"Will you read to me?"

Katie looked down at the title of her book, featuring a girl in a bonnet staring at a barren field. Safe in His Arms. Not the book for Keith. She looked around and picked up the family Bible and opened to Matthew. Maybe right now would be a good time to start telling Keith about Christ. "Matthew 1:1."

"If you're going to read the Bible, don't read something depressing."

"Depressing?"

"What could be more depressing than a son sacrificing all for his father?"

Katie raised her eyebrows. If you say so. She thought of the Gospels more as bearers of peace.

She flipped through the pages, and found Psalms. She licked her lips and read, "I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me." The soft words blended in with his smooth deep breathing. After a while she stopped.

"Keith," she whispered.

Only his breath answered.

He must be asleep, but it was not a peaceful sleep. "Goodnight, my love." She hung up the phone.

She sat the Bible aside and reached for her romance novel, the shrill of the phone broke the silence. She bent her head to the side and reached for her phone. "Hey, Keith."

"Why did you stop reading?"

"You fell asleep."

"Katie, I find your voice very calming right now, so keep reading, please."

"Okay, my love."

She read to him, and in about five minutes, he fell back to sleep. Katie continued reading for another hour, until his breath became smooth. She blew him a kiss and hung up the phone. Maybe he would find the rest he needed.

Something was wrong with Keith. But what? He called constantly like he'd promised, but sometimes he acted normal, telling her about what he was learning, but then sometimes he was tired. Overwhelmed. He would make snarky comments if she asked something he figured she ought to know – or was angry with her if she didn't respond exactly how he wanted her to. Katie lay down on the couch and looked at the black phone resting on the chipped coffee table.

Shelly had left earlier with Jeff for the church's youth group meeting, but she had stayed behind since Keith always called around seven. She needed to be here for him in case he needed her.

Her stomach constricted. Maybe she should have gone. No. The preacher always said that Christians shouldn't be so devoted to church that they neglected their family and Keith was family. She glanced at the clock again. It was 7:30 p.m. and he had not called. Maybe he was resting. He needed to rest.

Her father came into the room – his brows knit. "Hasn't called yet?"

"No."

"Well relax Katie. Something might have come up."

"Hmm."

Mr. Morris chuckled and left the room. Katie snatched her phone from the table and pressed the button for Keith's number.

His voicemail picked up, so she left a message. Something must have come up. Keith was like the sun. He always showed up when he was supposed to.

Katie waited all night, but Keith never called. When she went to bed that night, she put the phone on her nightstand. The next morning, she sprang out of bed, and grabbed her phone to check the messages, but there wasn't one. He hadn't called. Tears filled her eyes. Why hadn't he called? She needed him to. It was her only way to get through the separation. She wiped away the tear that had slipped down her cheek.

Katie waited all day, but never heard a word. It took intense begging on Shelly's part to get her out the door and to the movies. Katie kept her phone on vibrate, trying hard to focus on the screen. Jeff sat next to her, but she scooted as close to Shelly as she could. That boy had no right sitting next to her, when the man she wanted was nowhere around. She ground her teeth together. She wanted to cover her ears and block out the sound of him, slurping his soda from his straw.

When they arrived home, Katie ran to her room, locked herself in and called Keith, but again all she got was the voicemail. She'd just leave him a message. Katie took a deep breath and let it out in a smooth stream. "Keith, I love you. Please call me."

Days passed and Katie couldn't stop crying and constantly checking the phone. She wouldn't talk to anyone, and spent her time in her room staring at the ceiling, crying. She rolled over and buried her face into her pillow. A thought that wouldn't leave her echoed through her mind. Keith didn't want to be with her anymore, and he didn't want to actually have to break up with her. It made sense. That was why he was short, that was why he hardly wanted to talk, and that was why he hadn't returned her phone calls. Had he met someone new in London? But he had pleaded with her to remember his love for her before she left Connecticut, like he knew something was going to happen that would make her question his commitment to her. The London story must be a lie – a cover-up for what he was actually doing, but what could that be?

Katie picked up the phone. She couldn't stand it anymore, just staring at the phone waiting for the littlest bit of vibration. She needed answers. Amanda would know and she'd better tell her.

He looked dead. The color had left his face, leaving just a pale yellow tinge. The handsome cheeks had shrunken, allowing his bones to poke through. Only his sweat matted hair and the small rise of his chest betrayed that he still lived. Amanda ran a hand over his head as another tremor swept through him. He was too far gone from the tranquilizers to even feel her touch. Would he respond if Katie was here? Amanda tears built in her eyes. At least he couldn't see her cry. She looked at the picture on the ceiling featuring Katie and him kissing. Every now and then he would briefly open his eyes and focus on the image of his love.

Amanda's phone vibrated. She picked it up. It was Katie. "Hey, Katie." Her voice sounded too strained. She needed to figure out how to control her emotions.

"Where is he?"

"He's in London."

"No, he's not. Why hasn't he called me in a week?"

Amanda looked at Keith, letting one tear fall. He almost disappeared under the massive black comforters.

"Amanda," Katie said.

"I don't know. I just know he's fine. He's going to be just fine."

"Amanda, if Keith wants to end things, he just needs to tell me or someone does."

Amanda lowered the phone and let a couple tears fall before she held up the phone again. Her voice cracked. "Just hold on, Katie, everything's going to be fine."

"Something's wrong with him?"

"He loves you very much. I've got to go now." Amanda hung up the phone, and turned to Keith. She kissed his head. "She sends her love."

Katie curled up on her bed, burying her face into the pillow and let out long deep sobs, releasing the emotions she'd been holding all week. The pain was so overwhelming, encompassing every inch of her. Her bedroom door opened, followed by the light steps of her sister. She sat on the bed, and caressed the curls that lay on her back.

"It's okay," she whispered.

Katie rolled over and faced the wall. She hated her family. Why couldn't they just leave her alone? She wrapped her arms around her body, the body she had let Keith love for so many nights and she gagged, as she felt the filth of what they had done spread through her. "Go away."

"Katie."

"Leave me."

The bed shifted and the sound of feet retreating down the hallway filled the silence. Katie squeezed her tear-soaked pillow. Was God punishing her because she hadn't bent to His will? What a cruel way? To take away what she loved most in this world.

Katie curled up on the couch. Shelly had rented a movie and had insisted that Katie watch it with her instead of hiding in her room. Her phone sat on the coffee table, but it was turned off. No one was going to call, so why bother? Four weeks and not one call. Twenty-minutes into the movie, her father walked into the den, and he held out his phone for her. She looked at him. He had a half smile on his face, but his brows were bent down.

"Who is it?"

"It's Keith."

Katie sprang off the couch and grabbed the phone. She ran upstairs to her room, slamming the door shut and locking it. "What is going on?"

"I've been busy," a quiet voice said.

She pushed her hair out of her face. "You liar."

"Katie, I'm sorry."

Katie sat on her bed and wiped some tears away. "Relationships are built on trust. What's going on? You sound so sick."

"I." He paused. "I can't tell you."

Katie jumped to her feet, shaking her head. Did he think he could just call her when he wanted, expecting her to swallow everything he told her, just because she had let some things go in the past when his baby blues made her forget reason? No. She couldn't take this. She just couldn't. "Listen to me. I don't want to hear from you then."

"I need your support." His voice broke. Was he crying? Keith never cried, but remained a strong tower, she couldn't penetrate.

"I need you to trust me."

"I...."

"Keith, consider us over. I'll send the ring to your sister."

"Don't, don't do this!"

"I love you."

"I love you, too. So stay with me."

"Bye, Keith." She hung up the phone, and fell back on the bed, covering her face with her pillow, as the tears gushed from her eyes. Had she really just ended it? The words had just come out, but now there was no going back. She wouldn't get on her knees begging for him. How could he treat her as if she didn't matter? Calling her when he wanted. Not telling her what was going on. A pain seared through her chest. She grabbed the fabric of her shirt over her heart and clenched it. The pain was horrible, more horrible than when her grandmother had died. What was she going to do? Just let herself whittle away?

Her father's phone kept ringing, but she wouldn't pick up. He pushed the button for the number again, but the voice mail picked up. He cursed his father. This was his fault. Katie would have understood. He had so much power over her. But now she had slipped from his fingers. He called her phone but again the voice mail picked up. She wasn't going to answer and he knew no one else to call.

He threw the phone against the wall. It broke into many pieces. Amanda sprang to her feet, wrapping her arms around him. "Keith, it's okay. You'll get her back."

He pushed from her and pummeled the nightstand. The lamp and cup of water clattered to the floor. He spun around and screamed a curse, pressing down on his head.

The door flew open as two male nurses rushed to him.

Amanda jumped in front of him, her eyes wide. "He doesn't need anything," she pleaded. "His girlfriend broke up with him."

He did need something. The one thing that always made him calm down, but she was nowhere around. Heat streamed through him, filling every inch of his body. Keith picked up a chair and threw it at the wall. But the heat didn't release, only grew stronger. The two men rushed to him and threw him down on the bed. Keith punched back. One's head flew back. The bigger man shoved his arms down as the other injected him with a dose of the tranquilizer. His chest rose and fell with his deep gasps as the drug seeped through him. Her eyes filled his mind.

"We don't want you to hurt yourself," one of the nurses said.

How could this man hurt him more than what his father had done? One-by-one, the muscles in his body relaxed as a stillness spread through him. Soon his eyes grew heavy but he wouldn't close them. Instead he locked onto the picture of them kissing.

Katie rolled over and pulled the sheets down from her face. Her eyes stung. There must not be any more tears. The thought brought fresh tears to her eyes. Why couldn't she just stop thinking of him? She closed her eyes and felt him all throughout her. If she could only see his face or smell his cologne.

She picked up her cellphone. What? She flipped through the caller ID and noticed that there were 40 missed calls. Keith had called every 15 minutes for quite a few hours. "My goodness."

Her finger dangled over the button with a green phone on it. It would be so easy to dial the number and tell him she was sorry. But she couldn't. Then he might always treat her badly. The phone shook in her hand. The phone number was unfamiliar. She shut her phone off. She couldn't. She just couldn't talk to him. If she did, she'd fold in an instant.

Katie didn't sleep that night. When her tears subsided a little, she prayed that Keith would get himself straight, or least give her up. When it began to grow light out, she picked up her father's phone and blocked Keith's number from it. She rolled over on her side, and saw the koala bear sitting on her chair. The tears rose up in her again and poured down her face as her whole body ached. What was she going to do?

SEVENTEEN

Keith pulled up to the beach house raised in the air by concrete blocks. The light blue building almost blended into the clear sky line. The beach looked dead compared to the beaches of New York with its long boardwalks and various attractions. The only person on the street was an old man walking a black Lab. He parked under the house, stepped out of the car and took a long whiff of the salty air. At this moment he could go for some salt water taffy. Maybe Katie and he could find some later. But he needed to win her back first.

Two days ago he had gotten out of rehab, and after he'd let his father get a good look at him, he slipped away, flying straight to Raleigh. The man's cold eyes and the snarl of his lips as he elaborated on why Keith looked like a washed-up street urchin were still burned in his mind. And he had laughed at how Katie had just tossed him to the side. But how could he keep her, if he couldn't make her believe in the truth he wanted her to see? There was no way, he could convince her he had been in London, but he'd try. At least his father had told him where he could find Katie.

Keith walked up the long wooden steps and knocked on the front door but no one answered. He opened the unlocked door and walked into the small living room, glancing around at the tan furniture with bright blue pillows featuring white sailboats. Seashells filled glass bowls sitting on tables and counter tops. Every inch of the place spoke of the sea, including the sea bark center-piece on the dining room table. What a quaint place. It was the kind of place that Katie would love.

"Katie." He listened, but he didn't hear anything.

He walked through the house to the kitchen and looked out a glass door. In the distance he could make out Katie as she and her sister played in the water. For the first time in a while a smile crossed his face. She was so beautiful – like a jewel glistening in the sun.

He opened the glass door and walked through it, making his way to the beach. The hot sand burned his feet as it flicked over his sandals. He got halfway across the sand, and stopped when Katie looked at him. He raised a hand in the air. "Katie."

Who was that? She didn't recognize the figure, although the voice muffled by the waves sounded strongly like Keith's.

"Who's that?" her sister asked, echoing her thoughts.

"I don't know."

The figure walked closer and shouted, "Katie."

"Keith!" It was him.

Katie ran out of the water, fighting the strong waves, and ran to Keith, her heart pounding against her chest. He had come for her. Her love came to win her back. A shot of energy ran through her. He really did love her. She stopped right in front of him and studied his thin face, with unsteady eyes. He looked like he had been through hell and just came out. "You've lost so much weight."

"Yeah, the food wasn't that good in England."

Katie tensed. He was still lying to her. "You know, I don't believe you were in England."

"I know."

"Why didn't you call for a whole two weeks?"

He turned from her, and headed back to the house, with his hands dug deep in his blue jean pockets. She followed at his heels. "Keith, talk to me," she shouted at his back.

He stopped and waited for her to catch up. "We'll talk inside."

Inside, Keith sat on the couch, and held out his arms for her.

"I'm wet."

"I don't care."

She sat on his lap, laying her head against his shoulder. A shock ran through her as once again his arms wrapped around her – the familiar sensations flooded through her.

"I love you, Katie."

She opened her eyes and saw the outline of the ring under his shirt. She placed her finger through the hole, pressing lightly against his chest.

"I love you, too." Tears brimmed in his eyes. He was so broken. Where had the confidence gone? Something must have happened to him. Something that had weakened him. He didn't seem like the same boy she had fallen in love with. The one who would pound another on the chin to keep him from hurting her. "But I can't be with someone who doesn't trust me."

He leaned his cheek against hers. "I trust you. My father doesn't." He spoke just above a whisper.

"This isn't your father's relationship."

Katie kissed him on the lips. When she moved back, his eyes were closed and he had pushed his lips into a thin line. He must be thinking; perhaps, wrestling with some deep problem. Whatever it was, she would help him, just as long as he let her know what he faced.

"Don't tell anybody, or let my family know I told you. Promise." He opened his eyes and stared straight into hers – piercing through her.

"Of course I do."

His light blue eyes wavered. "Promise me you won't hate me."

"Keith."

"I had to get off some things, for you."

Her mouth dropped open. She had been right. He had been on something that night at Arther's house. He must have been battling an addiction and was afraid she'd leave him. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him close. "You went to a rehab center?"

"Yeah. I'm clean, and I promise you, I will never touch the stuff again." He paused for a second and took a deep breath. "I'm sorry. I was hooked on the stuff before I met you, but you made me want to get off of it all."

"Oh Keith." She kissed his forehead and then his lips. "I would have helped you. Done anything I could to help you get better."

"Do you forgive me?" He looked up at her with wavering blue eyes as if he feared she'd reject him.

"There's nothing to forgive."

He wrapped his arms tighter around her and pulled her as close to his chest as he could. "Will you still marry me?"

Katie found the ends of the chain on his neck and took it off. She slid the ring off it, and handed the ring to Keith. His eyes brightened as he took her hand and placed the ring back on her finger. He kissed her hand. "You are so precious."

She bent her forehead to his. "I will always be there to support you, Keith, just as long as you let me in." She rubbed his hair, knocking off the hat. "Just as long as you let me help you. I promise."

The glass door opened, followed by the heavy steps of her father. Keith tapped Katie's leg, but she didn't get up. Every inch of her screamed to cling tight, so he couldn't slip from her again.

"Are you okay, son? You look sick."

"I'm doing good, sir."

"I'm glad you're here." He patted Keith on the shoulder. "I think we'll have hamburgers tonight. What do you two say?"

"Sounds good," Katie said, burying her head into Keith's shoulder. Her father hadn't said anything about her sitting on Keith's lap. Must be glad to have him back in the family. She heard the heavy retreat of her father's steps. He was a wise man. "Are you going to stay for the rest of the week?"

"Yeah."

A full smile crossed her face. "Good. I wouldn't be able to let you go again."

He chuckled. "I feel the same way."

The screen door opened again, but this time several steps could be heard. She looked at her mother, walking towards her. Her mother took her hand and led her off of Keith's lap, but Katie clenched onto his hand.

Her eyes locked onto Jeff's. They looked like steel, but they contrasted with his slumped shoulders. Why did he look so mad that Keith was here? Katie shook her head and turned back to the man she loved.

Evelyn walked into the kitchen and took Frank's arm, leading him outside onto the patio. He grabbed the coal and dumped it into the bright green grill. Good. It was clean. He ran his fingers over the grates, feeling his wife's gaze lock onto his back. The boy was going to be alright. His eyes had a spark of hope, a determination. More than he had at that point in his life. His daughter was following in her mother's footsteps more than she realized.

"He looks sick," she said.

"Yeah, but he's going to be fine," he said turning to her.

She planted a hand on her hip. "Frank, I don't like this. He just shows up after not calling for a while and looking sick."

Frank gripped a match, tossing it in his hands. "I think I know where he has been."

"Where?"

He leaned on the wooden porch rail. "Think about it Evelyn, he disappears, comes back thin. Does it remind you of anyone?"

Evelyn placed a hand over her mouth and turned to look at the young man, sitting next to their daughter.

"We shouldn't judge him," he said. "Imagine what could have become of me, if you hadn't entered my life." Or if Evelyn's father had barred him from his daughter and not allowed him to marry her. No, he would extend the same kindness to Keith. He needed it.

"But she's our daughter."

"And someday he'll be our son, so treat him like it. He deserves our love and support. Besides, Katie is a strong girl. She'll be able to help him, like you helped me."

Evelyn nodded and went back into the house. Frank held the glass door open, and stared at Keith. He was right. It was too obvious. "Son," he shouted.

Both Keith and Jeff turned to look at him. "Keith, come help me get the grill started."

Keith nodded. He walked through the kitchen and his wife handed him the lighter fluid. Keith brought it to him. They talked about the trip for a couple minutes, until the fire had sprung to life. He turned to the glass door and watched the girls and Jeff cut up vegetables and his wife get the potatoes ready for French fries. He turned back to the young man in front of him. The confidence was gone and now an unsettledness filled his eyes. Keith was probably wondering if he was about to forbid him from seeing his daughter. He couldn't deny him the same benefits Evelyn's father had granted him. "Did I tell you about the time I proposed to Evelyn?"

"No, sir."

"We had been dating for a year, and I wanted to marry her. I asked her one night and she told me she would give me an answer in the morning. That morning she showed up at my apartment, and said she wanted to take me on a trip."

"A trip?" Keith raised his eyebrows.

Frank crossed his arms. It was so hard to admit the faults of one's past, but Keith needed to hear it. It would help him. "I wasn't always the man I try to be now. She took me to a house in the mountains called the Forgiven House, handed me a Bible and said, I'd better get my life straight if I wanted to marry her."

Keith's mouth dropped open as his eyes widened.

"She took me to a rehab center."

"How did you know?"

Frank placed a hand on Keith's shoulder. "Because I called her every night except for two weeks when I was too messed up to talk. When I got out I was thinner than you are."

"Mr. Morris, I...."

Frank raised his hand. "I'm not going to judge you, and I'll keep your secret. I just wanted to let you know we're here for you. It takes a lot to kick an addictive habit."

"Thank you, Mr. Morris for understanding."

"You're welcome. Go get the hamburgers? My stomach is starting to get impatient."

Keith nodded and walked back through the glass door with a little bit more confidence in his gait. He would be just fine.

EIGHTEEN

The secretary said hello to Keith as he swept past her and made his way to his father's office, but he just ignored her. He should have at least asked if his father was occupied, but if he lingered he probably wouldn't go through with this. Let Matthew Wilkerson see that his son was scared of no one. He had proven her worth. She had not said one word about Ellie and he had showed that he could control her. All he had to do was play humble and she bent. His shoulders slumped and he stopped, hanging his head. He hadn't done that. He had formed a lie in his head about working overtime in London, but once he saw her light blue eyes full of compassion, the story just spilt out. How he wanted her to shower him with love and nurture. And she had.

Keith gripped the doorknob of his father's office, feeling the sweat on his palm. Who was he kidding? The man would have him thrown out of his office and worse. A heat spread through him. He couldn't live without her. He just couldn't. His father needed to realize in order for him to become the man he wanted, he had to have her.

He knocked on the door.

"Come in, Keith."

He lowered his fist. How did his father know he was here?

Keith opened the door and walked in before shutting it. His father looked up from where he sat on his desk with his arms crossed – his young secretary sat across from him with a laptop on her lap – her blouse a little too low.

Keith stood with his hands clasped in front of his waist until his father dismissed the secretary and sat in a brown leather chair. Mr. Wilkerson folded his hands on the desk and gave him a glare that made every inch of him stand up straight.

Keith raised a hand. "I know I can trust her. I want to marry her in December."

His father tilted his head as his lips snarled upwards. "Of course you do. You broke my command and told her."

Keith took a deep breath, but he couldn't calm the heat that coursed through him. "You were watching us."

"You're the one who told Sullivan to keep an eye on her."

"Let me marry her."

"No, I want you to drop this girl and get back with Ashley."

Why? Was he mad? What did he have to do to win her? Kill her father as she sang his praises. Keith shook his head and planted his hands on the desk. "What are you afraid of? That we can't shut down some girl. You know what we could do to her."

His father chuckled as he leaned back into the chair, placing his hands behind his head. "You'd deny her in an instant?"

"If needed."

His top lip curved into a smirk. "I thought it was true love."

"Family first." Keith stared at his father's eyes - his chest rose and fell with each of his deep breaths.

"Family?" The man raised his eyebrows.

Keith stood and crossed his hands in front of his waist. "Your plans first."

Mr. Wilkerson waved his hand as if he was dismissing him. "Marry your girl, but you're responsible for her."

The breath slipped from him. He had consented. Keith turned for the door and clutched the handle.

"I mean it, William."

Keith stopped and looked back at his father, as he dropped a pen on the black desk. He leaned forward, his glare piercing through him as he pointed a finger at Keith. "Know this. I'll tell Sullivan to slice that pretty throat if you don't and she causes problems."

"I won't fail you." Keith walked out the door, clenching his hand. She was his.

NINETEEN

Hopefully her tears weren't staining her veil. Katie clutched her father's arm listening to his sweet advice as his voice cracked. The Wilkerson diamonds weighed heavily on her chest making her feel the burdens of previous hopes for the family line. Mrs. Wilkerson had told her every Wilkerson bride wore these on her wedding day and now they adorned her neck - a sign that she was now a part of their powerful family. Please God, give me a son. She closed her eyes. The bell skirt of the dress flowed out from her. When she had first tried it on, she had swirled side to side as if she could make it ring. The white gown had few decorations; just a small gathering of lace at the sleeves. She had wanted a simple dress, so the family jewels Keith had presented her with would be the focal point of her attire.

The doors opened and Katie gasped at the sea of people. Her father took one step, but she stayed still. What was she doing?

"Just focus on Keith," her father said, nudging her forward. She looked up and found Keith at the front of the altar, hands crossed, face stoic, waiting for her. A slight smile crossed her face. Yes, she must focus on Keith, the most important person to her. The one she was completely giving herself to. She took her first step.

Just before she reached the steps that led to the altar, Keith let a full smile fill his face. Katie's heart flipped. He longed for her.

The smile never left as he looked into her eyes and promised to always love her. She could barely speak, and only whispered her vows. When the preacher announced them man and wife, she closed her eyes as Keith kissed her cheek. She opened them and took a deep breath before looking at the sea of people before her, slightly laughing. She had captured one of America's most sought-after bachelors. She looked at his strong face. A brightness filled his eyes. He led her down the long aisle, as if he was making it known to the whole world that she was his.

He bent to her ear, as they walked out of the chapel. "You're mine forever," he whispered, making her smile. Yes, she was.

BOOK II

ONE

"Why Do Fairy Tales Always End After the Wedding...?"

Keith and his father walked in the door of an abandoned school with no hassles, pistols in their long black coats. Two agents walked behind them. There was no moon; the only light came from a small flashlight that an agent held. They turned the corner, and the other agent opened the door to a science room. Abandon posters of the planets, animals and minerals filled the walls. Sitting at one of the long green desks were three men, with brownish skin, and black hair. The first man spoke with a Syrian accent.

"You have come."

Mr. Wilkerson pulled out a brown envelope, and held it up.

"This is how you'll get them. My contact wants it now."

The man laughed and turned to his comrades. He said something in his native tongue before turning back to Mr. Wilkerson and kicking towards him a large black suitcase that banged against the floor and fell right at Keith's feet. An agent walked to it, opened it and ran a scanner along the bills.

"It's clean," he said. "And it's all here."

The man closed the suitcase and stood up. Mr. Wilkerson dropped the packet on the floor, and they walked out.

Once outside the building, his father chuckled. Something was up. This was about more than what they had just done.

"Someday this money is going to make you a king," his father said, looking out into the distance with a sneer in his eyes.

"What are you talking about?"

"A sort of campaign money."

Keith stopped walking and turned to his father. "It costs that much to be Senator of New York?"

Mr. Wilkerson shook his head, and looked up at the sky as if he owned it. He probably did. He did own the man who held the nation's power in his hands. "You think I'll be satisfied with that? No, my son. I have bigger plans for you."

Keith knit his brows. "Are you talking about the presidency?" A tenseness spread through him. He was. The man wanted to rule through him like he did with Arther.

"In fewer than 10 years you will be vice-president. And then president."

"Quite soon to be planning?"

Mr. Wilkerson turned to him and looked him straight in the eyes. "No, you strike when you have power. Think we could have made this deal without Arther. Why do you think I put up with so much of his foolishness? Claiming you as his own. Letting him dream you are the son he could never produce."

Keith nodded. His father was mad. But he was right. This was how men came to power. Arther didn't get himself into office and he surely didn't run the government.

"And you'll be a good son? Won't you?"

"I'm always a good son."

His father patted him on the shoulder as they turned for the car. "Just always listen to me and you'll be fine."

His father sat in the car with Keith in the passenger side. The agents got in the back. Keith leaned his head into his left hand, which was propped up against the window. They had sold arms to another country. Out-of-date weapons, but enough to cause Syria's enemies trouble. Children might die, countries demolished. And he didn't care. He should. Katie would, but she would never know.

Later, Keith walked into his apartment. Katie lay on the couch with nothing but a white nightgown covering her skin. She had her face buried in one of those clean romance novels. At the sound of his approaching feet, she set her book down and rolled over, allowing him to gaze at the generous curves nature had given her. She looked so innocent, so naive. He walked over to her and ran one finger down her leg.

"How was work?" she asked.

"We got a lot of business done."

She smiled as he moved the nightgown up, so he could look at her legs. They were shaped so perfectly and creamy. He would be offered so much power. What would Katie think of being a First Lady? Keith scooted next to her, and kissed her. It would be interesting to find out.

Keith sat on the edge of their bed fully dressed in one of his suits while Katie slept behind him, her chest rising in a smooth rhythm with each of her breaths. He raised his chin a little and peered down at the mirror. There it was - the look of a president. It was the aristocratic cheekbones and the way he could keep emotions out of his eyes, but still be able to turn on the smile to hide any deceit – just like his father. His family was made to rule and rule they would continue.

Katie's hands ran around his waist, as she placed her chin on his shoulder. "What are you doing?" she asked.

"Just thinking."

"Of?" She ran a finger down his chest, making a sigh escape from his lips. One simple motion could stir so much in him. If his passion hadn't already been spent, he would take her now, powering over her. He never felt more dominant than when the sweet thing behind him moaned his name.

Keith took her wandering hand and brought it to his lips, kissing each finger. His sweet possession. He stopped and clasped their hands together. "Do you think I'll make a good senator?"

"Sure."

"Do you think I look like one?"

"You're too good looking." She laughed. "But perhaps when you're older, bald and fat, I'll see you as a senator."

Keith raised his right eyebrow. "Senators can't be good-looking?"

"Only those in the movies."

"What about presidents?"

Katie kissed Keith on the cheek. "I guess if you're a Kennedy or a Reagan. I always thought Reagan was a nice looking old man."

"A Reagan." He nodded. "I could be a good Reagan."

"Yeah, I bet you could."

Keith turned to his wife and placed his hands on her sides, clenching her white nightgown. "What would you think if I became president?"

The light of the lamp accented the twinkle in her eyes. "I would want to know the truth about Roswell, and all the other government secrets."

A smirk crossed his face. "Is that right? Maybe someday you'll have the chance."

She smiled, slightly giggling. "You can see into the future?"

"Maybe I can." The passion reared in him. Maybe he would be able to see how powerful he was tonight.

TWO

Katie looked up from her laptop when Keith opened the door. Glancing at the clock, she noticed it was nine. Another late night and stressful one according to his furrowed brows. What did he do all day? Whenever she asked he would change the subject or say he didn't want to talk about it. It probably wasn't much. He had told her that usually lawyers spent their first year being overpaid paralegals. Katie closed her laptop. She would finish the short story tomorrow.

He didn't go to the kitchen to grab the dinner she had prepared, but just sat down next to her on the couch, leaning his head back and closing his eyes. Every part of him looked tense.

"Tough day?"

He didn't answer, but opened his eyes and looked out into the distance. She needed to distract him. He wouldn't be interested in her little love story but maybe school. "I got the schedule I wanted."

"Anything interesting?"

"Yeah, I'm going to start education classes. I'm so excited." In a couple semesters she would be able to intern in a school and begin working with children. The few hours she had spent tutoring reinforced her dream, a dream of helping to shape young minds.

He raised his eyebrows. "Why did you do that?"

"Because I'm going to teach, remember?" A sinking feeling filled her. Surely he remembered. She had spoken of it so much when they'd dated. She just hadn't had time to mention it since. She had been occupied with other things, like learning to be a good wife to him.

Keith pushed his lips into a thin line. "Yeah, but that was before we were married. You don't need to teach now."

"I know, but I want to. Remember our dreams of shaping the future together?" Katie trailed a finger over his shoulder.

Keith shook his head. "Go ahead and change your schedule tomorrow; take more literature classes."

The smile on her face disappeared. Did the world shift without her realizing it? He sounded so controlling. "I don't want to."

"I will not pay for education classes, and if you try to take them behind my back, I will have you dismissed from school."

"Keith?" Katie squeezed a pillow on the couch as tears built in her eyes. Was she going to be able to teach? She felt her dreams crash around her. No, she couldn't give it up. "But...."

"Wilkerson women do not work," he shouted. "Does my mom work? No. Does my sister? No."

She jumped to her feet. "You never told me you didn't want me to teach."

"I didn't tell you, you could." He stood and peered down into her eyes. "Now, listen. This conversation is finished. I can't handle petty stress like this."

Katie took a step back. His eyes filled with a deep glare, a glare so much like his father. She lowered her eyes. What had just happened?

"Pretty thing." His voice sounded softer. He caressed her cheek. "Let's not fight. I did have a stressful day, and all I want to do is hold you." He took her hands and in a second she was on his lap with her chin resting on his shoulder as he caressed her back. "Understand."

Did she understand? Of course not, but she was not about to argue. She had no desire to see that anger again. Tomorrow, when he felt better, she would mention it. He would understand. He always did.

Katie tensed as the door to their apartment opened. Keith was home. He smiled as he took off his coat and tie, dropping them onto the floor, leaving them for the maid.

"Hi," he said as he walked over to her, and placed a book on her legs. She closed her laptop, and picked up the book, reading: How to Write Fiction. Keith sat on the couch by her feet and caressed her toes. "I called a friend who owes us at Random. He recommended this book."

Katie placed it on top of her iBook. What did he want her to do with that? Her dream wasn't to be a writer. That was her hobby. No, she wanted to shape young minds.

"Pretty thing," he said breaking into her thoughts. "You've got to understand, I don't mind you doing something, but teaching is below us."

"Keith, I...."

"My mother," he interrupted. "Does charitable work to build up the family name when my father doesn't need her. Maybe that's not for you, but I don't want you doing anything that will distract you from me, or lower the family."

She grabbed the book and held it up. "What am I to do with this?"

"Write. You're always writing little stories. Write a novel, and we'll get it published." Keith's eyes held a softness, a lost puppy dog look.

The tenseness fled from her. Others might see him as controlling, but she didn't. And maybe his business associates would look down on him if his wife worked. He just didn't see things the way she did. But she needed to make him understand, teaching was not below them. Teaching was honorable. Her father was a teacher, and Keith greatly admired him.

Katie shook her head. "And what am I to write about? Authors have great stories. All I am is a wife."

"That's a great story." He caressed her toes again.

Only if your husband was great. Of course, he was meant to be a senator. Everyone around him talked as if it was a certainty. Katie opened her laptop and wrote, William Matthew Wilkerson. She looked down at his name. It sounded so important as the William rolled into the Matthew when one said it. She wrote by his wife Katie Marie Wilkerson.

"What are you writing?"

She looked up at his eyes, which had a gleam in them.

"Your biography, future Senator of New York."

He laughed and looked up at the ceiling before he turned his eyes back to her. "Will there be a chapter about my great moves in bed?"

She couldn't help it. A chuckle escaped from her lips. She picked up the book and tossed it at his chest. He caught it and dropped it on the floor. A smirk spread across his face, a lightness in his eyes. This was the Keith she loved. Not the one who came home last night. But the Keith from last night was an anomaly, she doubted she would see again. She started typing, Keith thinks he's all that, but in all reality, he has the worst pick-up lines. My favorite one "Get closer and my breath won't stink." She turned the laptop so he could see what she wrote. Keith laughed and tickled her toes. She squirmed and almost dropped the laptop, but he caught it before it fell onto the floor. He set the laptop down, and crawled over her, looking down into her eyes, caressing her cheeks with his thumbs.

"I love you," he said. "Don't be mad at me."

She smiled and reached up to his shirt, playing with the collar, as a warmth filled her and every part of her melted. "I'm not mad."

"Do you understand why you can't teach?"

Katie shrugged her shoulders. "No, but I don't care anymore."

"Good." He immersed his hands in her hair. "Write me a good novel, Katie, about two lovers." He kissed her forehead. She closed her eyes, losing herself in the scent of his cologne and the soft touch of his lips. They could work through this.

The next day Katie changed her classes. She took two more literature, and three writing classes, hoping to find some inspiration to write while Keith was busy with his job, but there was no inspiration. After she finished her school work, she would sit at her desk and stare at the laptop trying to find a story, but every story she could think of seemed silly and inadequate; especially when she'd look at her bookcase full of books, telling stories of characters who overcame great hardships.

So she started writing his biography. If he really was going to be a senator someday, then she would need to chronicle her life with him. She wrote about the moment she first met him, how scared she was, especially when he insisted on walking her home. She wrote of their courtship, the first kiss that made her forget all and the day it snowed. She added commentary of what she thought of him at each moment and how he made her feel so special; she wrote about the look in her father's eyes as Keith and he talked.

Her fingers dangled over the keyboard. She had gotten to the scene when she snuck into her old bedroom, that first trip home. All she had written was I don't want. She stared at the screen in front of her. Those words revealed so much keeping her from finishing the sentence. She couldn't hug Jeff, but he could hold everyone else.

The words: you're mine rang in her mind. Katie closed her laptop and laid her head in her hands. No, no, he was hers. He even said it. But he said it while another girl danced in front of him in a black silk negligee. And she had let him. Katie pushed her fist into her eye. You're mine. The inflection in his voice sounded so possessive, but maybe she remembered it wrong. Or maybe she now saw it in a different light.

She looked up at the wall. Hanging there was a full-blown picture of him leaning against his BMW. He had such a strong jaw line, the jaw line of his family. If she could erase it all, all the moments, she would. A tear slipped down her cheek. No, she wouldn't. She was meant to be his, but how much was he to own her? A shudder filled her as her gaze got caught by the black leather Bible sitting on his desk. That book said she was to submit. But what did that mean? It surely didn't mean she had to lose herself to him, letting him control everything about her. No. It just couldn't. Besides, if she could decide to ignore the Lord in regards to sex outside of marriage, she could decide to ignore this to.

She turned back to the photo and looked further up his face, fixing on his blue eyes; the dark blues that had a look of longing in them as if he wanted nothing but her. She couldn't live without him. Things were not that bad. Yes, he told her what classes to take, made decisions for her and never listened when she said no. But he'd change. He always did for her.

Katie stood from the chair and walked into the bedroom. She took all her clothes off and stood in front of the full-length mirror that rested on the wall. She looked over herself. What part of her did he desire the most? What part would he hate to lose? She took out her ponytail and let her long brown hair fall. It had gotten longer- it now fell to the small of her back. She reached to the tips and softly caressed them. She had always kept it to the middle, but Keith wanted it longer, so she grew it longer. She held up her hair, and curled it under as if it was shoulder length. She dropped it. If she cut it, it would be gone, and she wouldn't take away anything she couldn't give right back. She looked over her body again – her body was so white, like he wanted it. It must be all of her. She turned around and looked at her backside, the hair slowly swished with her movements. She would take all of her, and he would give in, like when he went to rehab.

She left the mirror and slipped on her white nightgown. She put on some light makeup, the perfume that smelled like the sunrise, and brushed her hair, making sure each curl curled perfectly. She looked at the clock. It was getting close to eight. Hopefully, he'd be home soon.

Katie sat on the bed, and stared at the door in front of her. Her hands dug further into the sheets of the bed as the minutes slipped past, and it got closer to the time when Keith was always home. She looked at the floor and said a quick prayer, but quickly looked up, when the door to the apartment opened and his briefcase dropped on the floor. He was home. Please God let him understand.

"Katie," he shouted.

She stood and walked to the door, the oakwood floor filling her vision. She opened it and peeked through. Keith stood in front of the couch, still wearing the jacket to his suit with his shirt untucked, as he tugged at his tie.

"Hey," she said, leaning against the wall.

A full smile crossed his face. He walked up to her and placed his hands on her hips. "You look so pretty."

He kissed her on the neck, sending a chill through her. How could her new thoughts have changed her reactions to him? Katie shook her head. She must not over analyze everything. This was her Keith. He worshipped her. Would lay the world at her feet to see her smile.

Katie folded her hands behind her back and looked up at the ceiling. What could she say to him? She needed to make him stop, but he never stopped when she asked him. "Keith," she said.

He caressed her side, raising the nightgown up. Goosebumps spread over her flesh as her skin was exposed to the air. When he had the nightgown to her waist, she took his hands but he pulled it from her grasp and continued to pull her nightgown up to her breasts.

"Stop." She pushed him from her.

Keith stopped kissing her, and looked at the wall behind her for a second before he looked into her eyes. "What's wrong, babe?" A lightness filled his eyes.

"I...." She took a deep breath. She had actually stopped him. He had never stopped before. "I don't want to do this."

Keith placed his hands on the wall and leaned into her. "What?"

Katie pushed her shoulders back. Did he ever realize how small he could make her feel? His arched eyebrows accented the concern in his eyes. Was he worried something was wrong, but something was wrong, and she needed to make him understand, so things could be made right. "I'm not going to sleep with you."

He crooked his head to the side.

She squared her shoulders, but not one ounce of strength filled her. "Not till you stop being so controlling."

The lightness fled from his eyes. His father's glare filled them. She pushed back against the wall.

"What?"

She opened her mouth to speak.

"What do you mean?" He smashed his fist against the wall. Katie spun to the side away from his fist.

"You're my wife!"

"I'm sorry." Katie fell to the floor and curled in a ball.

One more pound and he screamed out a stream of curses before he spun around, facing the couch.

"You whore." His shout filled the room.

"I'm sorry."

"Sorry. You'll be sorry."

What? What did he mean by that? Tears rushed down her face as Keith swooped her into his arms. His feet pounded on the floor as he rushed to their room. Her body bounced as it fell onto the bed. Her eyes popped open when he slammed the door behind him. Katie sprang out of the bed, ran to the door and tried to open it, but the door wouldn't budge. She pulled at it several times, but the knob would not turn. How could the door be looked? But it was made to lock from the outside - a suggestion of his father's when they picked this place out. What had his father known? She stumbled back from the door and wrapped her arms around herself as she fell to her knees – the tears pouring down her face. What had just happened? That wasn't her Keith.

Ashley opened the door as Keith brushed past her into the apartment. "Is anyone here?" he asked.

"No." Ashley crossed her arms over her chest. Keith took off his coat and laid it on the top of the couch. Why was he here? A deep line creased between his brows - tension radiated from him.

He walked up to her and took her hand, giving her that charming seductive smile she had seen him use on many girls. That smile never worked on her. "Hey, Ashley," he said.

"What are you doing here?"

Keith placed his hands on her hips. "Let's be like old times."

Ashley raised her eyebrows. "Already forgotten your wedding vows?"

He chuckled and kissed her neck, making her feel over-powered. She laughed as something in her churned. Something was different – not right about him. "I'm not going to be your whore. Why don't you go back to your wife?"

Keith raised his head. He smirked at her, and glared deep into her eyes. Ashley turned her gaze to the side. That look. He had that look. The glare of his father.

"Oh, come on, pretty thing."

"No, not anymore. It was fun when we were kids."

He kissed her neck, again.

"Keith stop." She shoved on his chest, but he tugged her close to his body as his lips trailed down her neck.

Through clenched teeth, she said, "Let go of me."

Keith threw her back against the door - making her head bang hard against it. Tears swelled in her eyes. Ashley focused on a painting of a red rose, letting her eyes focus. "It's finally happening."

"What?" Keith planted his hands on his hips.

"Remember." She shook her head. "You remember. It was the day before your eighth birthday."

Keith turned around and stared at the opposite wall.

She walked up to him. "You do."

"I don't remember anything," he said in a low tone.

"Yes, you do. Remember hiding under the bed, because your mother, what was it, she smiled at some guy; just smiled! That day, you promised you would never be your father."

Keith spun around. "I'm not him."

"How long till you start hitting her?"

Keith grabbed his coat and flew past Ashley, slamming the door behind him. Ashley fell back against the wall. How long until he would?

Keith sat at a bar at one of his father's hotels, spinning a shot glass on the red oak bar with a perfect shine. A full heat spread through him. How dare she? He clenched the glass. That whore. Laughter filled his ears and he looked to his side. A dark brunette with cropped short hair laughed at something the businessman said. She looked at him and smiled, batting her eyelashes. Did she think she would get more money from him? He looked away. Women should never cut their hair. He pushed thoughts of Katie's long curly mane away. He couldn't think of her now.

"Are you visiting New York?" asked a feminine voice. A tall woman with long straight blonde hair stood next to him, leaning on the counter. She wore a red dress that hung loosely on her skin, making her look classy. A slight rose mist floated from her.

"I don't pay for sex."

The woman chuckled. "You think I'm a prostitute."

"You're just the type of girl my father would hire to get a little extra from the business men."

The woman raised her eyebrows. "Your father owns this place?"

Keith turned to the bartender. "Joe, do I pay for drinks here?"

The bartender put down the rag he held. "No, Mr. Wilkerson."

"Why not?"

"Your father owns it."

Keith turned back to the woman and slipped off the stool. "Come on."

Keith rolled over and let his breath slowly slip from between his lips. Katie had no power over him. She'd better remember that. The woman ran a finger down his cheek.

"I guess you get all the girls for free, too."

"Are you paid to caress my face?"

Her brown eyes narrowed, before she slipped from the bed, and made her way to her clothes. Once she left, Keith rose from the bed, and took a shower. The water fell hard on his back as the steam filled the room. He grabbed the soap and brought it to his chest, but stopped - inhaling the bay rum scent. Let her smell the other girl's perfume. Let her wonder.

He returned to their apartment, and opened the bedroom door. Katie lay on the bed curled up. He kicked his shoes off, making them pound on the floor. She flinched. Good. He walked over to her, and placed a hand on her stomach, rolling her over onto her back.

"Hi," he said. She forced a smile onto her tear-stained face as he sat down, leaning over her. Her wide eyes wavered. "Don't ever do that again."

"I'm sorry," she said. He held her face firmly and kissed her lips softly, letting it deepen as her body trembled under him. She would never pull that trick again.

Katie lay in bed, staring at the wall opposite of her. Keith had left hours ago for work, after using her that morning. No, loving her. It was love like he did many mornings. She closed her eyes and images of last night filled her mind like they did every time she tried to rest. He seemed so different. Not the Keith she knew. She wiped a tear from her eye. Perhaps she had been wrong. She shouldn't have angered him, but used her love to soothe him into her wish. Her phone rang, but the need to answer it didn't register until she realized it might be Keith.

She rolled over and answered. "Hey," she said, not even looking at who it was.

"How are you, Katie?"

Katie sat up and placed a hand on her forehead. It was Ashley. What did she want? "I'm fine."

"Well, can you let me in? I know you're home."

"Oh, did you knock? I didn't hear you." Katie got out of bed and opened her front door.

Ashley smiled even though there were traces of moistness in her eyes. Something must be wrong. "Want to go to the park?" Ashley asked.

"Sure," Katie said as she walked back into the apartment and grabbed her purse.

"Katie, you're still in your nightgown."

Katie looked at her gown. Her cheeks warmed. She returned to the bedroom she shared with Keith and came back five minutes later in a pair of blue jeans and a sweatshirt with her hair loosely in a ponytail.

A few pigeons plucked at seeds left on the ground, while a squirrel ran up a tree chasing another. Ashley kept looking at her face, so she tried to hide what she was feeling. It probably didn't work. Her eyes felt so moist, so raw. How much had she cried last night?

"Are you really okay, Katie?"

Katie crossed her arms around her waist. "Keith and I just had an argument last night, but everything is fine."

Ashley nodded. "What was it about?"

"Oh, I don't even remember. It was silly. Every couple has arguments."

Ashley leaned forward. "You still seem hurt by it."

Katie forced a smile, and closed her eyes as tears filled them.

"It was no simple fight," Ashley said.

A couple tears fell from Katie's eyes.

"Did he hit you?"

Katie turned a sharp glance to Ashley. "Why would you think that?"

"Because I know he's capable of it."

Katie shook her head. "Keith would never hurt me."

Ashley looked at the ground. "He came to my place last night."

"He did?"

"Yeah." Ashley stood and walked from the bench.

Katie jumped to her feet and chased after her. What in the world was he doing at his ex's? Hopefully, just looking for advice. "Ashley, tell me about it."

Ashley turned to her, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"I could lose Amanda over this." Ashley pointed at her chest. "I don't know why I'm speaking, except for the fact that I'm so sick of the control they have over the women in their lives. You know, she didn't want to marry Brandon."

Katie took a step closer to her. "I promise I won't say anything."

"How can I trust you?"

"We'll share secrets. Keith would be so mad, if he knew I told you this."

Ashley walked over to her and wrapped her arms around Katie. The scent of her floral perfume surrounded her. This girl held Amanda as a lover, but her as a friend. Katie snuggled her face into her shoulder - her touch soothed her rattled nerves and for a moment she felt the sense of security she had lost last night.

"What happened?" Ashley whispered into her ear.

"He just got mad and...." If she could just hide away. Katie covered her eyes, but the pounding sound rang through her mind. "He locked me in our room and...." Katie let the story unfold while tears rushed down her face. Ashley pulled her close, caressing her back, crying with her.

When she finished, Katie pulled from Ashley and stared into those exotic green eyes. "What happened when he came over?"

She bit on her lips. Please let him have just wanted to talk. Please Lord. She didn't know what she would do if she found out he'd cheated on her.

Ashley took a deep breath and exhaled out in a smooth stream. "He wanted sex, Katie."

Katie took a step back. "What?" She was lying. She had to be.

"I think he wanted to hurt you, to prove you have no power over him." Ashley took her limp hands. "I sent him away. I promise you I did. I imagine he found someone else."

Not one part of her wanted to believe Ashley. But it was true. She knew it. What did Ashley have to gain from telling her what so many had told her before? Keith slept around. Katie wrapped her arms around her waist. What was she going to do? She couldn't stay with someone who disregarded their wedding vows. But the thought of walking away sent sharp stabs throughout her.

"Katie, you've got to be careful. You've to be."

Katie remained silent.

"Katie, when I rejected him, he threw me back against the wall."

Katie clamped her eyes tight. He would never do that to her. Never. Ashley wasn't the woman he loved and maybe he just slightly shoved her.

"I'm sorry to debunk the image of your prince."

"Do you know how many people he's slept with?"

"It's uncountable. He's so used...."

Katie shook her head. He had lied to her. How did this all start? How had Keith just moved into her life? Right now it seemed like he had been there from the moment of her birth, he had ingrained so much of himself into her. There was never a thought that didn't center on him. She had denied her faith for him. She looked up at the sky. Was God punishing her? "What am I to do?" she asked.

"I don't know. You can't leave him. There's nowhere you can go he won't find you. Wilkersons don't let their women leave."

"I actually believed he loved me."

Ashley half smiled. "I don't know if he loves you, but he's definitely obsessed with you."

A smile seeped across her face. At least he did want her, and her marriage wasn't a show.

"Katie, obsession is dangerous."

Katie focused on Ashley's eyes. "I love him. Maybe I can help him."

"He's becoming his father, you can't fight that."

"But I have to try. I love him."

"You will fail."

Katie turned around and watched the children playing in the distance. A young boy with light brown hair kicked a ball up a slide while another young girl tried to catch it. She could do it. She'd find a way.

THREE

Keith leaned over her, kissing her, with his hands immersed into her hair. She wished he would just finish up, but he took his time caressing the curve of her neck with his lips over and over again. For the last couple weeks she had been walking around on her tiptoes, trying not to set off the anger she had seen him display. Their conversations were forced and every part of her cringed when he held out his arms for her, despite how good they felt. She would go to him, trying to soothe him, gently loving him; hoping her love would reach him. At night, she would read him chapters from her romance novels, showing how couples could work through problems, and she mentioned a marriage conflict seminar she saw an advertisement for in the newspaper. He had not shown interest in either. Was any of it working?

He stopped kissing her. Must be time for her shirt to come off. She raised her arms in the air, to make it easier for him. When she didn't feel him touch her, she put down her arms and opened her eyes.

His arms were crossed over his chest; his brows were knit. "What happened to your touch?"

Katie blinked.

"It's grown so cold," he said.

"What are you talking about?"

"You just lay there, and it's as if you're gone."

"I've always just laid here."

"No, you used to caress my back, and say things like 'kiss my ear a little longer'. Now you don't."

Katie forced a smile onto her face. He realized her feelings. She reached up to his cheek to caress it, hoping to see his baby blues fill with desire again, but instead he just turned from her.

"I'm sorry." She wrapped her arms around him and laid her head on the back of his shoulder. He reached for her hands and squeezed them. She needed to try better – to be more loving. Kissing his back, she inched her lips to his neck. She'd take control. That should soothe him.

Keith stood and walked out of the room, leaving her on the bed.

Keith picked up the book one of the interns had left on his desk. The cover looked silly – a woman looking off into the distance while a young man stood behind her. Just some silly clean romance novel as Katie called it. But she loved these books. He looked at their wedding picture on his desk as he tapped the book. His anger had gotten out of control the other night, but she had no right. He clenched the book in his hands. But still he shouldn't have gotten so aggressive, nor run to the nearest woman trying to prove he didn't need her. Especially since he did.

Keith opened the book, reaching for a pen and wrote I love you. He would make her love him again. It wouldn't be too hard.

Katie rolled from the bed and picked up her nightgown, slipping it over her body. Keith sat up and ran his fingers through his sweaty hair. She was supposed to be gone only a couple minutes, but she couldn't help it when he flashed his smile and held out his arms for her beckoning her to his side. She had run to him like he was a long lost treasure while Shelly waited in their guest bedroom for her so they could whisper all night. She was visiting during her spring break. Another surprise from Keith.

Katie leaned against the door, letting her gaze roam over his sweaty muscular body. A strand of hair fell across his forehead, sending a spark of energy through her. He was so handsome.

"I'll see you tomorrow morning, early." He winked.

Heat spread through her as a giggle escaped from her lips. "I'll awake you with my cold feet."

He laughed as she slipped through the door and made her way back to Shelly.

The last couple weeks had been wonderful. He had been sweet to her, bringing her home gifts; not jewelry, but books. He even once brought her home a letter from a foundation to promote literacy in the schools, enabling her to give him a real smile. He had made a very sizable donation in her name. So what if he had a controlling nature? He was obviously working on it and she would continue to help him. They would both give a little, for the sake of their happiness.

Katie turned the bag over and let the pita chips fall into the crystal bowl. They would go well with the le bleu crab dip she had picked up earlier, for the slumber party. She looked at the clock. 9 p.m.. Amanda would be here soon for their small get-together. In front of her, her sister, wearing a pair of green silk pajamas, arranged several magazines on the coffee table. Tomorrow she would be leaving. A dull pain nudged into her heart. She needed to visit her family soon, but she didn't have much time now that she was married.

The doorbell rang.

"Yay. She's here," Shelly said, sitting on the couch and bouncing her feet.

Katie folded the bag and dropped it in the trash before she made her way to the door. She opened it and took a step back, gripping the handle and half hiding behind the door. Ellie gave her a seductive smirk. What was she doing here? She wasn't supposed to be included.

She kissed Katie on the cheek and said, "brought something for you." She held up a six-pack of Smirnoff. Someone told her.

"Welcome." Katie turned from the door and greeted Amanda. That girl better behave tonight, or she would kick her out.

"Hey Ellie," Shelly said, embracing the girl, who twirled one of Shelly's curls around her finger.

Katie crossed her arms. She could at least be less flirtatious with her sister.

The girls sat on the floor and joked about a movie they had watched. Ellie had set a drink in front of Katie, but she didn't touch it. She leaned against the couch and watched her sister immerse herself into Ellie's world. The girl laughed at jokes she barely got the meaning of, the hidden meanings clear to Katie. She'd have to keep an eye on Shelly tonight.

Ellie finished her first drink, laid the empty bottle down and made it spin until it stopped at Shelly.

Her sister started laughing. "What ya going to ask me?"

Ellie smirked. "Are you a virgin?"

"What do you think?"

Katie glared at Ellie, but she turned her gaze to the door as it opened and Keith walked in.

"Hey ladies," he said. "Having a party?" He dropped his briefcase on the floor, and his coat right next to it.

Katie smiled, but he looked at Ellie. There was a wildness about her eyes. Keith nodded before he went to the kitchen. He returned with a beer and sat on the couch with his legs right behind Katie. She looked at him. He raised his eyebrows to acknowledge her right before he took a sip of the beer. He looked tired, there was a heaviness under his eyes.

"Katie, are you playing?" Ellie asked. Katie turned back to the group.

Ellie placed her hand on the empty bottle of Smirnoff and spun it, giving Katie a seductive smile. The bottle stopped in front of Katie, making her flinch. She turned to Keith who looked at the bottle with the tip of his beer resting against his chin. His eyes looked unsettled. What was he thinking?

"Katie, I have the perfect question for you," Ellie said as she got on all fours, revealing the tops of her breasts, and crawled over to Katie. She sat about a foot from her. "Have you ever wanted to kiss a girl?"

Katie placed her hands on the floor behind her and leaned back. "No."

"Keith likes to see girls kiss."

Katie's mouth fell open. She looked at her husband. He had just taken a sip from his beer, when she noticed the look in his eyes. A fixed look that was slightly wide, and full of a brightness. He bit on the side of his lip. She looked down at his free hand, which clenched the cushion of the couch. Ellie told the truth.

"Keith, want me to kiss her?" Ellie said.

Keith set his beer down on the table next to the couch, and got onto the floor. He sat right next to Katie, and leaned so his face was right in front of Ellie, blocking her view. "She's off limits," he said.

A smirk slid on her face. "Just like that fifteen-year-old girl."

A harshness filled his eyes.

"Ellie, you messed around with a fifteen-year-old girl?" asked Shelly, who wrung her hands together.

Ellie laughed. "No sweet-girl, we messed around with a fifteen-year-old girl."

"Get out," Keith shouted.

Katie locked gazes with her sister, whose wide eyes, probably mirrored her own.

"Didn't tell her about that?" Ellie said, tilting her head to the side, the blonde tresses falling against her cheek.

Keith sprang towards Ellie, grabbing her by the arm and yanking her to her feet. "You're a worthless whore."

He dragged her to the door, threw it opened and flung her out. Ellie flew to the floor before she jumped to her feet and ran at Keith, but he slammed the door in her face.

Ellie could be heard shouting obscenities as she banged on the door.

"I'm sorry, Keith," Amanda said taking his shoulders.

"Why did you bring that whore here? You know I don't want her around Katie."

"She said...."

"Get out of my apartment," Keith shouted. Amanda grabbed hers and Ellie's coats and left.

Tears swelled in Katie's eyes. Her heart pounded against her chest. Keith stood in the middle of the floor, hands planted on his hips, chest rising and falling with each deep breath.

Katie walked over to him. "Did you...?"

"No," he shouted making her step back.

He was lying. "If you...." She placed a hand on his chest. He grabbed her wrist and yanked her towards him – a pain shot through her arm. "I said no."

"You did? Didn't you?" This was unbelievable. But, it was true. She just knew it. For why else would he be so angry?

"Listen, you are never to talk to that slut again."

"You're sick," Katie shouted. "I'm leaving you."

"No, you're not." He wrapped an arm around her back, holding tight. "You're mine."

"Let go of me." She pounded on his chest. Keith flipped her over his shoulder and raced towards the bedroom.

Shelly ran up to him and punched him in the back. "Let her go."

Keith spun around and raised his hand to her face. Shelly stumbled back. "Don't ever," he said. Keith walked into the bedroom. He dropped Katie on the bed and then rushed out, slamming the door shut.

Katie sprang off the bed and ran towards the door, pulling at the doorknob. But it was useless. The doors were designed to trap people in. A few seconds later the door opened enough so Shelly could walk in before it was shut again.

Both girls' eyes were glued on the door until a loud sound made them jump into each other's arms.

"Is there a phone in the room?" Shelly asked.

Katie looked at the one on the nightstand. She shook her head. What could the cops do? Nothing. Best to just wait it out. Katie placed a hand on her head and pushed it down. She shouldn't have questioned him. Ellie was not someone to trust, so why did she not believe her husband? Because of Ashley. Ashley had opened her eyes.

"I'm going to call the cops." Shelly let go of Katie.

She was about to run to the phone, when Katie grabbed her hand. "No, we shouldn't."

"Why not?"

"He just did this, so he could have time to calm down."

"He's done this before?"

"Just once. He does it because he doesn't want to take his anger out on me."

"This is wrong!" Shelly's dark curls fell over her face, half hiding her wide eyes.

She just didn't understand what it meant to be married. Someday she would. Wives needed to be submissive to their husbands. How many times had the preacher at her family's church elaborated on that message and it was not being submissive to challenge him in front of her family. Once she got that through her skull, Keith and she would be fine. Besides, it's not like he hit her. "I don't mind." Katie sat on the bed. "The best thing for us to do is just calm down."

Shelly slowly shook her head. "I don't like this. He shouldn't do this!"

"Shh, Shelly. We don't want to make him angrier. Just sit down. He hasn't hurt us. He wouldn't do that." She caressed her wrist. This was just an accident.

"Why won't he let us leave?"

"I don't know." Katie patted the bed. "Just come sit down."

Shelly sat down next to her and wrapped her arms around Katie's waist. Katie held her tight as her sister trembled in her arms. She closed her eyes tight. Keith had raised a hand to her sister, but he hadn't hit her. Would he have? No, it must have just been a reflex because Shelly had hit his back. He wanted to scare her off. A few tears slipped down her cheeks as her sister began to pray, asking God to protect them.

Please God, protect them and let Keith see the error of his ways. Please.

The door opened, making her flinch. Keith stood in the doorway with his arms crossed over his chest - eyes narrowed as he fixed his gaze on her.

"Come here, babe," he said.

Katie dug her hands into the sheets and pushed herself off the bed despite the fact her sister tugged on her arm.

Keith closed the door behind them, locking it. His eyes still contained the glare, but his face had relaxed. Katie took a deep breath as a chill swept through her. He looked so much like his father.

Keith peered down into her eyes, making her take a step back. "Don't ever try and run off like that again. Last thing I want is my naive wife and her even more naive sister running around the city, alone, at night. Is that understood?"

Katie looked away. "I understand."

Keith took her chin, tipping her face upward. "I know what's best." He ran a finger down her face, leaving a trail of goose bumps. He bent to her lips, kissing her tenderly, letting the kiss deepen. "What would you have done, Katie? Caught a cab in your pearls and silk pajamas, putting yourself at risk for robbery? Huh?"

She placed her hands on his chest, feeling the sweat under his dress shirt. "You're right," she whispered.

"I was protecting you," he said. "Go tell your sister that."

Katie turned from him and opened their bedroom door. The black sheets of the bed contrasted with Shelly's blanched face, making her look dead. She could feel Keith's eyes focused on her.

"It's okay, Shelly, he didn't want us to get hurt, by running around New York City alone. We could have been robbed."

His glare must have bored into the girl. Shelly leaned back, her hands clenching the sheets as her eyes widened. "I understand."

"I'm glad you do, Shelly," Keith said. He turned around. Taking her hand, he yanked Katie out the door before another word could be said.

The next morning, Amanda showed up at their apartment with her dark tresses pulled back into a tight pony tail, which contrasted with the form-fitting blue jeans and light pink cashmere sweater she wore. Katie showed her to the kitchen, where she gathered the plates filled with the remnants of the pancakes she had made earlier. Shelly sat at the table, fumbling with a napkin, her blue eyes wavering, probably remembering last night. The breakfast had been strained with Keith not saying a word, but chewing his food slowly and scrolling through the news on his iPad while she and her sister chit-chatted about random topics, which at the moment she couldn't recall.

After he left for work, Katie reached for a cup, thinking to pour Amanda some of the hazelnut brew in the coffeepot.

Amanda laid a hand on her arm. "Katie, how are you?"

Katie stilled and turned to look at her sister-in-law, noticing the lightness in her eyes. "I'm fine," she said.

Amanda smiled. "Can we talk?"

Katie set the mug down and straightened. Had she come to apologize for bringing that snob to her home - a girl whose only goal seemed to be disrupting her life? Katie nodded.

Amanda took her hand. "I'm here to clear something up. Keith never slept with a child."

"Why did he get so mad?" Katie asked. And why did she ask that? Did she want him to find out about her question, thus provoking his anger again?

"Ellie is always lying about him, trying to provoke his anger. Can't you see? He was afraid you'd believe her."

Shelly leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms. "It doesn't make sense."

No, it didn't make sense, but then again so much of Keith no longer made sense to her. It almost seemed like he had decided to rewrite the rules of their relationship and forgot to tell her.

Amanda pushed her lips into a thin line as she turned to look at Shelly, slowly shaking her head. Something must weigh heavily on her mind. She turned back to Katie, her dark blue eyes wavering. She bent to Katie's ear and whispered, "you have no idea what our father would have done if Keith had slept with a child."

Katie's eyes locked with Amanda's as a chill swept through her.

She could only imagine. Amanda told the truth.

Shelly pulled her sister closer as the receptionist announced last call for boarding. Keith stood behind Katie, looking completely calm and composed except for the glare in his eyes. A warning to behave and not to say a word.

"I will pray for you," she whispered into Katie's ear, as a few tears slid down her face. She was actually going to leave her sister with this monster, but there was nothing she could do. Katie wouldn't listen to one ounce of reason, but had an excuse for all of his actions.

Katie pulled from her. Her smile was bright, but her eyes unsettled. "I'm going to be fine." She pushed her away. "Now get on that plane before it leaves without you."

Shelly squeezed her hand. "I love you," she said before turning and getting on the plane. She found her seat and leaned her head against the window. This morning Katie and she had fought because Shelly had insisted on telling her parents what happened. But as Katie broke down crying, Shelly finally promised to keep quiet – a promise she would have to live with. She would find some way to help her sister before something happened. She wouldn't leave her sister to face that monster alone.

Katie turned to face Keith, who held out his hand for her, beckoning her to him. She took a deep breath as tears built in her eyes and she went straight into his arms, letting him guide her out of the airport. Once in the limo, Katie leaned her head on the window. Had her sister's plane left yet? She wrapped her arms around her waist. A piece of her left when Shelly got on that plane. Her old life seemed so far away, untouchable. If she could just be that little girl again, she would make different decisions. She cringed as Keith glided the back of his hand down her cheek.

"We'll go to Clayton this summer," he said.

Katie placed her palm over his hand, stopping it. She could never bring him home again. How could she ever trust his anger?

Katie opened her eyes and read 5 a.m. on the clock in front of her. The light sheets covered her body and nothing else. She moved her hand to her stomach. His hand was not there – nor did his body loom over her. A distant sound of repetitive clanking floated to her, a sound she heard many times at night. Katie slid off the bed and walked to the weight room. Opening the door, she leaned her head against the side of it.

Keith glared at the wall as he pulled down on the cords, back and forth. The muscles of his back rippled under his skin as he lifted the weights up; not being fazed by the heaviness.

"What are you thinking?" she asked.

He dropped the weights, the banging sound making her flinch.

He turned sideways in the seat and pressed his hands firmly on his knees, staring at her for a second before he turned to a bat that leaned against the wall. He got up, walked to it, and grabbed it. He raised it above his shoulders and swung the bat, making it swoosh through the air. The confidence in his eyes slipped away, and was replaced with a look of sadness and a strong anger. He stood like that for a second, just a second, before he raised the bat, rested it on his shoulder and turned to look at her; his bangs laid flat against his forehead from the sweat.

"You know, all I ever wanted was to play ball." He pointed the bat at her. "Think about that the next time you whine about something." He turned back to the weights, dropping the bat on the floor.

"Keith, I...."

"We all must sacrifice."

Katie walked to him, placed one hand on his shoulder and slowly caressed it, feeling the sticky sweat on his smooth skin. "Just promise me something."

Keith turned around and placed his hands on her hips, pulling her close. "What's that?"

"Just don't become your father. He scares me."

Keith wrapped his arms around her back and pulled her up slightly towards his face. "Katie, there is a reason why the family is so powerful." He paused and leaned into her face. "I will become my father."

She grabbed his arms, squeezing.

He bent to her ear and whispered, "but I won't let you get hurt in the process."

Katie leaned her head against his shoulder. He sounded so confident that he could protect her from what he knew. But could he? Katie ran a hand down the hair on his neck. Dear Lord, what had she gotten into?

FOUR

Katie walked into the hotel room, dropping the few bags of books on the counter. She glanced at the clock. She had a few hours to curl up and read before Keith came back to the hotel – if he came back. Seattle wasn't that exciting when there was no one around. She flipped on the TV and watched the news, hoping for more information about the case her husband was so immersed in.

The Wilkersons' firm was fighting for a _pharmaceutical_ company wanting the town council to give it land for a large plant that would bring many jobs to the area. It was a simple matter, except for the fact the land belonged to 20 families who had been living there their whole lives. The case was making headlines because a top law firm from California, known for its pro bono work, had agreed to work for the families for free. The headlines read 'Goliath versus Goliath' over a few acres of land and the news talk shows, constantly talked about the influence that both firms had in the government.

Katie perked up when the lead Wilkerson attorney appeared on the screen, talking about how they had the interests of the whole town in mind.

She shut the TV off. She wanted the families to win. What a small victory that would be. Then she could go home and forget about the case that made Keith come back to their room tense, constantly bickering with her.

A knock sounded at the door, which made her head snap up. Katie stood, went to the door and looked through the peep hole. Amanda. She smiled.

She pulled open the door and hugged her friend. "What are you up to?" she asked pulling the girl into the room.

Amanda flashed her a smile and held up two tickets. "The Lover's Dilemma at five."

Katie's smile widened. She had been wanting to see that movie, but couldn't bear to go alone. She looked at the clock. It was four now, maybe she would make it back before Keith came home. "Okay."

She grabbed her coat and slipped out the door, a bounce in her step.

Katie took a long sip of her drink, and popped a piece of popcorn in her mouth, the salty butter melting over her tongue. The hero ran his hand through the heroine's hair, making sparks of energy flood through her. That was love. Her early days with Keith had been like that. So full of excitement, thrill and mystery of what lay ahead. She leaned her head against the back of the chair. The hero would kiss her soon and everything would be happily ever after.

Katie's phone vibrated. She got it from her purse and read, "I'm home, come home." She looked at the screen as the lovers' lips finally met. She typed: after the movie. She was about to put her phone back in her pocket, when it vibrated. She looked down at the phone, and read "now." Katie typed emergency? She waited, and got, No, I want you here with me. She poked Amanda in the shoulder, and showed her the message.

Amanda whispered, "we'd better go back then."

Katie shook her head as the girls stood and walked out of the theater.

Once back at the hotel, she said bye to her friend and walked into their hotel room. In the middle of the living room stood Keith with his arms crossed - his brows furrowed.

Something was wrong. "Hey, Keith," she said, setting her purse down on a table.

He turned towards her with the strong glare in his eyes. "Why did I have to ask you several times to come back?"

"Keith, I was...."

"I don't care. When I want you home, I want you home."

"Did you have a bad day?" She walked towards him. Every part of him looked tense, like he had been given the worst news. Maybe the families had gained ground in their case.

"No, when I want you home, I want you home."

"I was...."

"I don't care."

Katie took a step back as every part of her tensed. Couldn't she just finish a movie? A simple movie. But he thought he ruled her. "You controlling son of b...." Katie's hands flew to cover her mouth. Dear Lord, she had done it now.

"What did you say?" A redness spread over his face.

Fear prickled the back of her neck as she stumbled backwards. "I didn't say anything!"

"Yeah, you did."

Katie spun for the door, racing towards it. Feet pounded behind her. Her fingers grazed the nob, trying to latch on. But his firm hand grabbed her and yanked her back around, to face him. He threw her back against the door, her head banging hard. A hand filled her vision. "Please," she cried covering her face. "I'm sorry, Keith!"

His hand smacked the door; it rattled under her - matching her shaking form. "Don't you ever run from me again."

"I'm so sorry." Tears slipped down her face. He turned from her, and kicked over the coffee table, sending the beer bottle crashing onto the floor. He screamed a stream of curse words out. Shaking his head, he sat on the couch, crossing his arms.

"I'm so sorry." She walked over and knelt at his feet. Burying her face into his lap, she let several tears fall. Katie looked at him – his face was so taut. This case made him edgier by the minute. Taking a deep breath, she stroked the buttons on his shirt. She would do any sexual act he wanted, just as long as he let things go. He grabbed her hand, squeezing it - sending sharp stabs through her. "Keith."

"Get on my lap." He spoke in a low tone, matching his father in pitch.

Katie crawled onto his lap.

"Who do you belong to?"

"You."

He let go of her hand. "Stand up."

Katie stood. With his hand, he motioned for her to take a couple steps back. She listened.

"Take everything off."

Tears poured down her face. What could he possibly want? To let his eyes roam over her trembling naked body? But she was his possession. "Why?"

"Do it!"

Katie flinched and tore off her shirt and jeans, dropping them on the floor at his feet. Her fingers shook as they stumbled over the clasps of her bra, but soon she undid it and let it slip down her body. As her underwear trailed down her legs, goose bumps spread over her skin. A warm tear fell down her cheek and landed on her chest, completely rolling down her body.

Keith picked up the remote control off the floor, and flipped through the channels until he found a college basketball game. He stopped on it, recrossed his arms and watched the game.

What? Katie looked at the screen. He was trying to humiliate her – to punish her for not following his orders. God couldn't possibly want her to submit to this. How cruel could he be to expect her to obey this monster in front of her?

"Stare at me."

Her head snapped back around, and she focused on the top of his head. His hair had skewed to the side. She crossed her arms over her breasts, trying to keep herself from crumbling to the floor.

"Hands to the side."

"You're treating me like a whore."

"You are a whore."

How could he call her something so vile? Wasn't she the love of his life? "I'm your wife."

"Wives listen."

"Keith...."

"Be quiet, and watch the TV."

Katie closed her eyes and faced the television. The game was in the beginning of the second half. She stood there with her hands glued to her sides until the game was over. He then shut off the TV, and the couch creaked with his movements. Behind her the rustle of fabric broke the stillness. He walked up to her and took her shoulders, slowly turning her around. He stood before her, shirtless, the black hair on his skin sprinkled with sweat. She looked up at his face; the glare still filled his eyes. He caressed her sides with both of his hands as he kissed her, dragging her onto the floor.

Katie kept her eyes on the ceiling, biting her bottom lip as Keith moved on top of her. Every part of her repulsed at his touch. He made her feel so used like a possession to dominate. When he was done, he stood and slipped on his pants. She sat up and pulled her knees close to her chest.

A smirk crossed his face as he grabbed his shirt. "You know, I always keep my whores on the floor."

Katie's mouth flew open as he turned for the bedroom, shutting the door - the lock clicking into place.

Whore. He had used her the same way he had so many women. Katie buried her face into her knees as the sobs escaped. Her hair lay all around her, half hiding her. When her head began to pound, she looked up. His wallet lay on the table. She needed to get out of here and his wallet probably contained enough money. She crawled over to it, and picked it up, looking inside. There were at least 10 $100 bills. Taking out a hundred; she looked around the place. She wanted nothing, but clothes on her back.

The door to their bedroom opened. She froze \- the money slipping from her fingers. Keith strode towards her and took her hand, holding it as if it could break and helped her to stand.

The glare was gone from his eyes; they seemed soft. He placed a finger on her cheek and caressed it. "Come lie down with me, my love," he said.

Now she was his love. She glanced back towards to the spot he had used her. He yanked her hand, making her follow him into the bedroom and handed her, her nightgown. She fingered the smooth fabric. What would he think if she told him whores didn't wear white? He'd probably slap her. She quickly slipped the fabric over her head, the cool silk, sheltering her nakedness. She'd rather have him think of her as the innocent, he insisted she still was, instead of the jezebel. After lying on the bed, he held out a hand for her. She turned to look at the open door. Every part of her wanted to make a run for it, but she wouldn't get far.

"Katie, my sweet wife," he said.

She looked back at him and cringed at the pleasant look on his face. How could he just switch on and off like he was some kind of Jekyll and Hyde? She lay down next to him before Keith pulled her as close to his body as he could, and kissed her cheek before he rested his on hers, trapping her. She would never be able to leave.

Ashley rolled over and grabbed her phone, looking at the screen. It was Katie. She looked at Amanda's sleeping form under the sheets, and got out of the bed. Amanda told her Keith had been more tense lately and yesterday he had demanded Katie come home. Something must have happened. She walked into the living room, closing the door behind her, and answered the phone. "Hello, Katie," she said.

Katie broke down into sobs, mumbling out broken sentences.

"Calm down," Ashley whispered. "You're making no sense."

Katie took a deep breath. "He made me stand naked in the middle of the room while he watched a game."

Ashley gasped. "I'm sorry," she whispered. Through fragments of sentences, Ashley pieced together what happened. She ran a hand through her hair. Mr. Wilkerson had done something like that before to his wife while they watched from around a corner. Her childhood friend was his father. There was no hope for Katie. Guilt pierced through her. She should have warned her. But she had hoped Keith would be different, but he never had a chance. His father had spent his whole life molding him into what he wanted, pushing his anger forward, and then forcing him to control it unless it was needed.

"Katie, my dear, it will be alright, you've just got to learn to live with him. Learn to avoid his anger."

"I want to leave him. I can't stand this."

Ashley wiped some tears from her face. "You can't leave him."

"Why?"

Ashley looked up at the ceiling and remembered the time when Keith and her hid under the bed. Mr. Wilkerson had held a gun to his wife's head, saying he would shoot all that she loved if she didn't behave. But she had done nothing wrong.

"They're so dangerous. You have to learn to follow his rules."

"They?"

"Him and his father. I shouldn't tell you this. It will make it worse for you, but you should know what you've gotten yourself into." Ashley stopped speaking as she walked to the guest bedroom of her apartment. She closed the door. "Mr. Wilkerson beat his wife until he broke her spirit; threatened her with guns. Keith, Amanda and I used to hide when he'd get so mad."

"Keith has never hit me."

"He will, if you don't lose your will now."

"He wouldn't do that."

Ashley shook her head. "Katie, stop allowing yourself to be fooled. Did you ever think he'd make you stand in the middle of the room naked?"

"No." Her voice died away.

"He will. He's capable of it and he will to make you bend to him. Accept it, you are now his possession. If you run, he will track you down, and destroy you until you become a shell like his mother."

"Dear Lord, help me."

Ashley closed her eyes. No one could help her. The other end of the line went silent. Not even a small breath could be heard. Katie must be trying to process what she had been told or blocking it out.

Katie spent the day watching reruns on the game show network. She stole a quick glance at the clock. It was getting late. She hadn't eaten all day and the thought of food didn't seem appealing. She had almost left that morning, but fear drove her back in the hotel room. What would he do if she ran? She pushed the thoughts from her mind. She couldn't think of them right now. Perhaps....

The door opened and Keith walked in with a bouquet of tulips. He smiled when his eyes connected with hers. She turned away. He walked over to her, and knelt down in front of the couch.

"These are for you," he said as he laid the flowers on her breasts and caressed her cheek with his index finger. "Are you feeling all right?"

Katie took a deep breath and let it escape from her lips. Now she was worthy of flowers. Every part of her felt tense, repulsed at his nearness. If she could only tell him to leave her be. But Ashley's words filled her mind. Would he really hit her? Put a gun to her head? He had shoved her against the door last night, and raised a hand to her. But he had hit the door as if that was a line even he wouldn't cross.

Keith placed the back of his hand on her cheek. "You want to go out to dinner; get out of here for a while?"

She shook her head. No, she wanted to leave. To walk out that door and never look back.

Keith dropped his hand from her face and sat on the floor. "I'm sorry, Katie."

She rolled over and looked at him. His lips were drawn down – his brows bent. "I was cruel to you last night." Keith folded his hands in his lap and focused on them. "I wanted to hurt you because you hurt me." He paused for a second. "I won't do it again."

Yes, he would. How many times had he apologized to her or tried to justify his actions? Hadn't she learned in sociology class that this was the pattern of an abuser? If she had only paid attention to the signs earlier. He had always been possessive. But now she could no longer ignore the signs.

Keith sat up from the floor, and leaned over her; looking down into her eyes. "I mean it, Katie. There is no one else in this world I love."

Smiling, he picked up the bouquet and took out one lone flower, dropping the rest to the floor. He placed the lone flower on her lips. "I love you," he said.

"Will you ever hit me?" Katie closed her eyes; her thoughts had materialized.

"No. What would make you think that?"

"I just wanted to hear you say no," she whispered. She tried to roll over, but he grabbed her shoulder and pushed her back over, his face inches from hers. Deep lines formed between his brows. "Look at my eyes."

Katie gazed into the dark blue eyes, which looked like they had when they first met. How could he really change his eyes to create a look that would fool her? Is that how this had all happened?

"Do you see anything in them?"

She shook her head. "I will never hit you," he said. His eyes held a firm stare; there was no twitch, nothing. "Did you see anything?"

"No."

"That's because I'm not lying. I will never hit you."

FIVE

Keith walked into the Seattle office of Wilkerson Attorney at Law and took a step back. His father sat at his desk, tapping the end of a pen in a smooth rhythm. Keith closed the door behind him, and stood with his hands folded in front of his waist. His father wanted something, but what could it be? He traced his mind, trying to figure out if he had left anything undone, but nothing stuck out. "Hello, sir."

His father leaned back in the chair and put his hands behind his head. "Do you know who Josh Hockman is?"

"He's a reporter covering the case."

"What else do you know about him?"

Keith shrugged his shoulders. "Nothing. He just calls us all the time wanting info."

Mr. Wilkerson sat up and folded his hands on the desk. "He's got some damaging information on us."

Keith sat in the chair opposite of his father; he couldn't move his gaze from him. "How?"

"It will be taken care of. Go to the hotel and spend the day with your wife. Sullivan will bring the information."

Keith stood. "How did he find out?"

In a low tone his father said, "it will be taken care of. Now go."

Her fingers rested at the end of the keys as her eyes scanned the page. The statement I hate him filled the screen. Had she really spent the last ten minutes filling a page with those few words? Tears pricked her eyes. Was there really no way out? Couldn't she at least try? Her family would help her. But Ashley's warning had created such a fear in her, she didn't know if she should take one step towards freedom. But she knew one thing. God wouldn't approve. She had spent the morning searching through the Bible, trying to find one verse that would justify her leaving. She figured maybe if for once she followed His word, he'd take care of her, but all she could find were commands about divorce being a sin and wives should cling to their husbands. And truth be told - why would the creator of the universe care about what happened to her? She had put herself in this mess when she decided to ignore His warnings and cling to the monster.

The door opened. Katie snapped the laptop shut.

"Katie," she heard. Keith walked down the hallway into the living room of the hotel room. He took his jacket off and draped it over a loveseat. His dark bangs swished to the side, highlighting his dark blue eyes. Not one ounce of tenseness radiated from him, so maybe she was safe tonight.

"You're home early." But why was he home? Court cases never took breaks until they ended.

"Yeah, there wasn't much to talk about." He smiled. "Let's go get some lunch."

She nodded and slipped the computer under the couch out of sight. She would have to make sure the file was deleted later.

An hour later, Katie sat opposite of Keith at a restaurant, listening to him talk about a game. She didn't notice the waitress had picked up their plates until she heard her ask, "would you like anything else?"

Katie looked up at the woman. "Do you have German Chocolate Cake?"

"Get a bowl of fruit," Keith said. "You don't want to get chubby."

The waitress's lips snarled upward as if he had called her chubby. Thankfully, Keith hadn't noticed.

"I'm fine," Katie said.

The waitress shook her head as she walked away. Everyone saw it. Even strangers. What took her so long? Now she understood why abused women were so fooled by their mates. One moment they played prince charming, treating a girl like royalty and then the next a monster hunting the princess. Never again would she judge a victim.

"Good." Keith pulled some cash out of his wallet and dropped it on the table. She stood from her seat, and waited until he placed her coat on her shoulders. She had to grind her feet into the floor, when his fingers bumped her shoulders. She placed her arms in his and they walked out of the restaurant.

Keith slipped a red pill into the dark wine, swaying the glass, so the liquid swished, dissolving the pill. He walked over to his beautiful wife, who sat on the couch, wearing a light blue cotton dress that accented her curves, and nipped just enough to show the top of her breasts. A dress he only allowed her to wear inside when no one else was around. It was too provocative, and would arouse other men's interests. And he could have no one thinking of her. He handed her the glass as she stared at the TV. A documentary about puffins filled the screen as the black birds swished through the water, snapping at small fish. She took several small sips, closing her eyes, her black lashes lying across her creamy cheeks. When she had finished, she set the glass down, and leaned her head against the back of the couch. Her eyes took on a dazed look. The drug was beginning to work. This drug had brought her into his arms, and now it would keep her innocent of his life.

Keith wrapped his arms around her and pulled her head onto his shoulder. He smiled as her body relaxed into his. It had been a while. Mostly she stiffened when he came near her. He would need to work on things, but he hadn't had much time lately to nourish their relationship. He would later. She wasn't going anywhere. He held her until she fell asleep and then carried her to the bedroom, lying down next to her. He caressed her cheeks, loving every curve of her delicate face. She was precious to him; worth more than anything. Guilt filled him. He needed to control his anger in regards to her; get her to do what he wanted without hurting her, but she needed to stop being so stubborn – to follow his lead.

He brushed a strand of hair that rested against the pillow, the chestnut tresses covered it in rippling waves. The cell phone he had placed on the bed vibrated. He reached behind his back and picked up the phone, flipped it open and read: "I'm here." He closed the phone and kissed his wife's cheek right before he snapped his fingers twice in front of her face. She didn't move, or flinch.

He slipped from the bed, put on a pair of slacks and walked out the door, locking it behind him. He turned and took a step back. A candlelight flickered over a silhouette in complete black. "Let yourself in."

The man held out a brown folder and a pair of gloves. Keith took the gloves and slipped them on over his long fingers. He grabbed the folder and walked to the kitchen table with the slender but muscular man following behind him. Pushing the table mat off the table, Keith sat down and searched through the folder, pulling out records of phone conversations between suspicious individuals and Arther, and details of weapons to be handed over, and setting them to the side.

"Is the missus asleep?" Sullivan asked, his voice never reaching above a deep drawl.

"She will not wake. I gave her something."

Sullivan nodded.

When Keith had a tall order of papers separated from the rest, he closed the folder and gave them to Sullivan. He then gave him the other stack, and said, "destroy."

Sullivan nodded and waited as Keith returned to the bedroom. The man would disappear from the hotel room as easily as he'd slipped in.

He was everything a girl could want, rich, influential, and handsome, but as the muscles of his back rose and fell with each deep breath, she saw nothing but power. Katie pushed his arm off of her and slipped out of the bed. She stood in front of the mirror in the bathroom, staring at the girl she had become and not recognizing herself. Dark circles remained under her eyes; her skin blanched. Did Keith still find her beautiful? To her, she looked dead.

"You're only twenty-one and your life has been lived," she whispered.

Keith walked into the bathroom and ran some fingers across her back. She flinched and turned to him as he took off his black pajama pants and got in the shower.

"Katie, it's Saturday get in here with me."

She tapped her fingers on the counter. He had always spoken to her like that, but now it held a different meaning. How could she have been so blind? Was she just too enamored with him to realize how he treated her? Katie slipped off the white nightgown, took her hair out of the bun, and got in the shower. The steam rose up around her, but the heat did nothing to chase away the chill that had filled her. Nothing could get rid of it. He had his back to her, leaning his head on the side as the water poured down onto his chest. She wrapped her arms around his waist out of habit. She needed to submit, but every part of her rebelled at the idea.

"Did you sleep well?" she asked.

"Yeah."

Katie picked up her blue sponge that hung on the shower spout, some peppermint-scented soap, and washed his back as she laid her head on his shoulder. Maybe if she just carried out their routines he wouldn't notice how she had changed.

By the time Keith was ready to get out of the shower, Katie's fingers had well pruned. She dried off, and put on her bathrobe. After she had started a pot of coffee, letting the hazelnut flavor fill the room, she opened the door, and picked up the paper. She shut the door, and tilted the paper to her face. Her hand flew to her mouth. She sprinted to the bedroom. Keith had just put back on his pajama pants.

He looked up. "What's wrong?" he said, knitting his brows.

Katie held up the paper. Keith took it from her and closed his eyes, probably reading the headline that had been burned into her mind: Secretary of State Miller Dies in Plane Crash.

"He was such a nice man," Katie said as tears fell down her face. His wife and children must be crushed.

Keith shook his head and sat on the bed, dropping the paper to the floor.

"Keith."

"Get out," he whispered.

She placed a hand on his chest.

"Get out!"

Katie ran out of the room, shutting the door behind her. She sat on the couch and curled her knees to her chest, keeping her eyes fixed on the door, taking deep breaths but her trembling form wouldn't relax. She shook all over. Moments later, Keith emerged from the room.

He knelt in front of her and glared into her eyes. "I don't want you to cry for him," he said.

"Why?"

"Just don't."

He sat on the couch next to her, turned on the TV, flipping through the channels until he found a show he liked. She studied the look in his eyes; a fixed angry look. Why didn't he cry for a man his family had known for many years? Katie sniffled, but a few tears slipped out. Hadn't Arther known Miller since graduate school? Surely Keith must have known him as a child. But Keith spoke with such disdain, as if Miller was a murderer who'd met his doom instead of a close acquaintance.

"I'm going to go wash my face," Katie whispered. He didn't respond, so Katie slipped off the couch and walked to the bedroom. She closed the door, and picked up the paper. Sitting on the bed, she read the story. An apparent mechanical malfunction was the reason listed for the crash. She opened the paper, and saw another story about a young reporter, who worked for the paper, found dead of an apparent drug overdose. The headline read Paper Mourns One of Its Own. According to the article, the reporter was covering her husband's case. Maybe Keith had known him. She closed the paper and slid it under the bed. Katie washed her face and returned to Keith.

About two weeks after Secretary Miller's funeral, a judgment was rendered in the case, the pharmaceutical company had won, but the families were going to appeal.

Keith and Katie returned to New York. She walked into the apartment and flipped on the lights. The blackness shrouded her, as an empty filling seeped into her. Wrapping her arms around her waist, she squeezed tight. She needed some warmth, but the chill clung to her, making her body tremble. How could she return to this place? A place filled with so many dark memories.

Keith walked up to her and enfolded her in his arms. "It's so nice to be home," he said.

Her whole body tensed. Images flooded her mind. He had raised a hand to her sister in this room and there was the door he always locked her behind.

Keith kissed her neck.

"It's nice." Katie walked from Keith's arms; his fingers slipped from her waist. She kicked off her sandals as she made her way to the bedroom. She lay on her stomach on the bed and submerged her face into the silk pillow. The musk Keith always wore filled her. The bed creaked with his movements as he sat on it and caressed her legs under her long black skirt.

"I missed the look of your skin on our black sheets."

"They're your sheets."

A smile that clashed with the slight darkness of his eyes, appeared on his face. "No, Katie, they're our sheets."

Keith's hand made its way to her thigh, squeezing; Katie closed her eyes, as he got on top of her and kissed the back of her ear. His sweet possession; no more than a blow-up doll.

"I love you," he whispered into her ear. "Pretty thing, roll over."

She took a deep breath and rolled over, and tried to make her eyes gleam by opening them wide. The glare grew in his eyes as his gaze roamed over her face. She must have failed. He shook his head, and kissed her again, letting the kiss deepen. He trailed his lips to her ear and whispered, "Katie, your love is fickle."

A tear slid down her cheek. He knew she pretended. She caressed his back, but he grabbed her wrists and pinned them to the bed. A gasp flew from her as she focused on the steel in his eyes.

"No more pretending, just lay there if you must."

"Keith, I...."

"Be quiet." He hushed her with his lips.

SIX

Katie's eyes popped open and she stared at the ceiling as her stomach rumbled. She could gag at this moment. She pressed a hand to her stomach. What was wrong with her? Pushing herself from the bed, she stood and made her way to the kitchen to start a pot of coffee.

She picked up a roll, but her stomach turned with just the thought. She pushed her hand hard against her stomach, but as she listened to the coffee drip into the pot, the aroma of the hazelnut entered her nostrils and something pushed up through her. She covered her mouth, and ran to the bathroom sweeping past Keith. Katie threw open the lid of the toilet, and let everything in her stomach come out. Keith bent down next to her and held her hair back.

When it was all out, she took the cup of water Keith handed her. She sipped the drink, swished her mouth, and spit into the toilet. She placed a hand on her head. "My head is hot, I must have a cold," she said. Katie went to the guest bedroom and lay down, burying her head into the sheets.

"I'll call my mom, Katie," Keith said. "She can come over, so you won't be alone." He kissed her on the head. "I'm going to get ready for work."

She nodded and listened to the sound of his feet as he walked away.

Around nine, Mrs. Wilkerson showed up, and Katie who was still feeling queasy, heard her speak to the maid for a couple minutes. She then walked into the guest bedroom.

"Hello, Katie, how are you feeling?"

Katie rolled over. "I'm fine. I've got some stomach virus."

Mrs. Wilkerson talked to Katie for a while. Around 11 a.m., she left Katie, saying she and Amanda were going to get together. She promised to come over after lunch.

Katie called the maid into the room, and asked her to leave for the day, saying she wanted to be completely alone. When she heard the front door shut, she got out of bed, and stretched, pushing the stiffness from her limbs. She hadn't taken her morning pill and better get to it since her stomach had settled.

She walked over to the bathroom, in her and Keith's room. On the sink, was her bag left unpacked. She picked up the small plastic box, opened it, and reached down for a pill, but as she did her fingers brushed several. Katie looked down. The pill container, she had had for almost a month, had at least two weeks of pills in them. Her breath fled from her as the pills fell out of her hand and onto the floor. The turmoil of her life had made the pills slip from her mind and now....

She covered her mouth as a scream escaped her. Dear God, please let it not be. Please.

A week later, Katie sat a bag of pads on the bathroom counter, her usual signal to Keith to leave her alone. Why bother? No period was going to show up, but at least she could buy some time. When she had to tell him, she would say she had implantation bleeding and didn't realize she was pregnant.

She washed her face in the sink, but the redness still clung to the skin under her eyes. How long could she hold him off? She bit her lip. There was an abortion clinic not too far from here. He would never know. Her fingers dug into the palms of her hands. No, he would find out. Somehow he would and then he would.... Only God knew what he would do if he found out she'd killed his child.

She sat on the couch and watched the minutes tick by. Keith came home around 7 p.m.. He smiled and then made his way to the bedroom, returning a couple minutes later.

He sat on the couch next to her and smiled. "I was kind of hoping for a baby," he said.

"I was too."

Keith caressed her cheek. "Perhaps, we should start trying."

"Perhaps."

Katie tapped on the door. Ashley should be home alone, since Amanda was out with her mother. The door opened and Ashley peeked out, smiling although her eyes wavered. "Hey, Katie."

Katie brushed past her.

"I'm alone," Ashley said.

Katie reached into the paper bag that she had brought with her, and pulled out a pregnancy test.

"Oh no." Ashley walked up to Katie. "Oh, Katie." She placed a hand over her mouth.

"I know I am. I just can't believe it." A couple tears fell down Katie's cheek. Ashley took her hand and led her into the bathroom. Fifteen minutes later, Katie held up the stick and focused on the pink yes glaring back at her. She placed the stick down, and sat on the bathtub. There was no way to deny it any longer. She placed a hand on her stomach. What was the life like growing inside her? Would it be like him? She shuddered. "What am I going to do?"

"Does he have any suspicions?"

Katie shook her head. "I can't have his child." Her voice choked up as a warm tear trickled down her cheek.

"It'll be yours, also."

"No, it will be all his, especially if it's a son. I would have no say in the raising of this child."

Ashley sat next to Katie and wrapped an arm around her waist. A soothing sense of comfort wrapped around her, but it couldn't push away the rattling that grew stronger every day. At some point, she imagined the shaking would kill her as it made every bit of her will to live seep from her.

"I want to leave him," Katie said.

"You can't."

Katie looked at her friend, focusing on the emerald eyes. "Why do you say that?"

Ashley took a deep breath and squeezed her hands together. "I wasn't born at the time, but my mother, before she died, told me that Mrs. Wilkerson ran off once. She was pregnant with Keith, and Mr. Wilkerson dragged her back. She wasn't the same ever since. No one knows what he did to her. But there are rumors he slit her mother's throat in front of her."

Katie gasped; her hands flew to her mouth. Her mother. But Keith wouldn't be that much of a monster. Would he? Tears poured down Katie's face as she buried it into her hands. With deep remorse, she realized the truth of the Biblical command to marry within one's own faith. This was all her fault. All of it. Lord help me, please. I'm so sorry. Get me out of this. Even if it was through her death, she wouldn't mind. Heaven would be so much better than the Hell she had created for herself. She wiped a tear from her face. But she had no faith God would help her since she had thrown her fist in his face and ignored every warning, every Biblical truth, and now his anger on her was swift.

SEVEN

Keith sat at his desk, filling out documents that listed assets, fudging details to make the company look more profitable than it was. He looked at the clock. Almost 10. Soon he would be home, and he would pull Katie into his arms and cherish the sweet strawberry smell of her hair. As he signed his father's name to the document, he thought of buying Katie some tulips since he hadn't bought her any in a while. Hopefully, they'd put a smile on her face. It had been so long since he'd seen one. Something nudged in him - a feeling akin to regret, but he pushed it away. If he got distracted, he wouldn't be able to accomplish what his father demanded of him. And nothing was more distracting than guilt.

The door flew open. Sullivan rushed from behind it. A chill swept over Keith as he took in the black gun in the assassin's hand. What was going on? The man looked like a rage boiled in his eyes.

"Code 50. Let's go."

He jumped to his feet - his body stiffened. "Katie."

"The apartment is being watched. Now, let's go."

"We have to...."

"We'll get her," Sullivan said, grabbing Keith's arm and yanking him to the door. A pain shot up his arm. He raced after the black-clad man while his blood pulsed at a rapid speed. If something happened to her, he'd never forgive himself. He had brought her into this life. And it was his responsibility to keep her safe.

"Little one," Katie whispered, trying to find a connection to the child she carried. Would she be able to love him? Tears brimmed in her eyes. Shelly had broken down crying when she told her the news - very few people would welcome this child's birth, especially its own mother. She caressed her belly. If she could only feel the life growing under her heart? Maybe then she would cherish God's gift.

The door flew open, making her flinch. Keith rushed in with another man she didn't know. He slammed the door shut, and ran towards her as the shaking feeling poured through her. What was going on? Keith grabbed her arms and yanked her from the couch, making her crash against his chest as he wrapped her in his arms.

"Get dressed." His eyes were dark, unsettled.

She looked at the man in complete black. "Katie, don't look at him!"

The man took a phone from his pocket. He looked at it before he said, "they're here." The man grabbed a black gun from his coat, and lowered a pair of goggles.

"They're here?" Keith asked. His eyes wavered as the color drained from his face.

Who was here? What was going on? She gripped Keith's shoulders, digging her nails into his jacket.

"Lock yourselves in the bathroom," the man said as he walked to the light switch and flicked it off.

Keith dragged her into the bedroom's bathroom, leaving her there. She stared at the door, clenching the sides of her nightgown. Her whole body shook. What could be going on? Had God finally decided to be done with them? Her hands flew to her womb. God please be merciful. Please give me a chance to change - to be better.

The door opened, making her stumble back. Keith slipped in with the pistol, he kept in the nightstand. He locked them in, and pulled Katie as close to him as he could. The pistol rested against her back as she clung to her husband, burying her face into his chest. The darkness hid everything. "What's going on?"

"I'm not going to let anything happen to you."

"Keith," she cried.

He wrapped one hand around her head and covered her mouth. Voices broke the silence that existed outside the bathroom. A man's voice said, "they're not here."

Another voice said, "the papers are."

Footsteps sounded on the hardwood floor. A thump broke the silence. Katie jumped. Keith gripped her close. Another man yelled something out, but a thump covered his voice. Her whole body shook so fast that not even Keith's firm grip on her could stop it. He whispered into her ear, but she couldn't concentrate on what he said. A few minutes later, the darkness lifted a little as the light to their bedroom turned on. Someone knocked on the door. Katie dug her fingers into Keith's coat.

"It's done," the man said.

Keith pulled from Katie, even though she clenched onto him. "Stay here," he said. Keith opened the door, and walked out. Locking her in.

Keith followed Sullivan to the living room, and spotted the two bodies covered in blood. He bent down and lifted one of the masks, studying the face in front of him, grim in his death. The silencer had kept them from hearing the bullets being propelled towards them and they had died, with no chance of fighting back. The Wilkerson way.

"I guess this was supposed to be payback for Miller," he said.

"We'll take care of the bodies."

"Is this all of them?"

"The rest were cleared out earlier."

Sullivan filled a needle with a clear liquid from a small glass bottle.

"What are you doing?" he asked, tilting his head to the side, furrowing his brows.

"She can't remember this."

"I don't want Katie drugged with that vile thing." He had no idea what it would do to her. They only used it on their enemies.

Sullivan lowered the needle. "Tell your father that."

Keith sucked in his breath. That was something he could never do. "Okay."

He turned for his bedroom and walked straight to the bathroom. He opened the door. Katie sat on the toilet with her knees bent to her chest. No trace of innocence remained in her eyes, but now a fog. That fog had been there for a while. "Come here," he said.

Katie stood, and walked out of the bathroom \- the white nightgown she wore contrasted with the dark circles under her eyes. Her beauty was fading right before him. Keith wrapped his arms around her, squeezing her to him and ignoring the wetness of her cheeks. The sense of guilt assaulted him.

"We're going to give you something to calm you down," Keith said.

Katie shook her head as Sullivan walked towards them. "No," she screamed and moved to turn her body.

"Katie, stay still," he shouted. Her small fists pounded his chest.

"Keith, please don't," she cried. "I love you." Tears poured down her face. "I love you, don't hurt me."

Keith loosened his grip. She still loved him? The words sliced right through him. Katie buried her face into his chest, her white fingers gripping his shirt. "My love...." His voice broke. He wanted to calm her, to take the fear from her, to even prevent what was going to happen. But his father's wrath would be fierce.

Sullivan put the needle on the dresser, shaking his head. He walked up to her and yanked her from Keith. She screamed as her fingers ripped at his shirt. It happened too quickly to remember the steps, but in a second she was on Sullivan's lap, her arms and legs pinned behind his, and her mouth covered. Her eyes wide.

"Give her the shot."

Keith picked up the needle, amazed at the calmness of his nerves. He had become calloused.

He knelt in front of her. The needle pierced her pale flesh as a couple tears slipped from her eyes. "Don't worry. You're not going to remember this."

Placing his fingers on her eyelids, he pushed them down. In a second, she would be out. "Go to sleep."

Her body slumped; her head fell to the side. Keith pulled her from Sullivan's lap onto the floor with him. He wrapped his arms around Katie, and kissed her cheeks. "I'm sorry, Katie," he whispered into her ear. "I won't let you be hurt again, but you won't remember."

Sullivan stood from the bed. "Stay in your room for the rest of the night." He left the room, closing the door behind him.

Keith cradled her in his arms, her body limp like the night he'd first held her. "My love," he whispered above her pale face.

Katie's eyes flew wide open as she grasped her stomach. She tried to catch her breath, but she couldn't as a sharpness grew in her. What was happening? "Keith," she pushed out when the pain subsided just a little.

"Katie." Keith leaned over her. "What's wrong?" He placed his hand on her stomach.

Katie rolled over on her side pressing the gown in between her legs. Another pain ripped through her. "The baby," she shouted.

"What baby?" Keith rolled her back over and grabbed her hand. He pulled his hand away from her, a darkness covered it. "You're pregnant."

Keith sprang from the bed and ran to the living room coming back in a couple minutes.

He swept her into his arms, running down the stairs of the apartment to the bottom floor. Katie clenched his shirt, digging her fingers into his skin each time she felt a cramp. Once in the car, he drove through the streets to the nearest hospital. The fading lights of the street sped past them in the opposite direction. The baby she'd never wanted was leaving them. An ache spread through her. Her child was dying. She clutched onto her stomach as the pain grew. If she could only hold the baby in. But there was no way to save him once this started. How many times had she heard her mother say that over the phone while she counseled a grieving mother? Keith muttered to her but she couldn't understand what he said. She glanced at him. Tears poured down his face. The confidence in his eyes completely gone.

"Katie, I'm sorry. You should have told me, but we'll save him."

At the hospital, Keith swooped her into his arms and ran to the opening of the emergency room to the front desk. People focused on them. A full-term mother held onto her stomach. She must realize what was happening.

"She's having a miscarriage," Keith said.

The woman at the reception desk focused on Katie's lump covered nightgown with dark blood smoothed all over the bottom. "She's had a miscarriage," the woman said.

"What?" Keith shouted out.

The woman didn't respond, but helped another nurse place Katie on a rolling bed and wheel her into a hospital room.

Before she knew it, she was lying on a table and an ultrasound wand was being moved over her belly. A blackness filled the screen. Her womb was empty.

"How far was she?" the woman asked.

"I don't know." Keith spun to a wall and banged his fist on it.

"Sir," the woman said, fierceness in her eyes. "Calm down."

Keith brought his fist to his mouth and bit down on his knuckles – his teeth piercing his skin, but he didn't seem to notice as blood seeped from the wound, "Is it gone?" he whispered.

The woman ran a sonar over Katie's belly. "There's no more baby. She must not have been far."

Keith broke down, pushed his hands through his hair and squeezed his head as he screamed out.

"Sir, sit down," the woman shouted.

"Why did this happen?" he demanded.

The woman shook her head, furrowing her brows. "Women have miscarriages a lot. Especially when there is a lot of stress put on them."

"I'm sorry, Katie." Keith rushed to her, taking her hand. Never, had she seen him so distraught. Had a child meant so much to him? His dark blue eyes wavered as if someone pointed a gun at him. She should have told him. No matter how cruel he was, he deserved to celebrate his child's life, not just mourn it. Tears brimmed in her eyes while one trickled down her cheek - pain crashed all over her. She looked back at the black image on the monitor. Nothing was left in her. Bye baby, she whispered. May you rest in God's hands.

Only the slight rise of her chest showed she still lived. But not the life she'd once carried. If he had only known, he would have made a different decision last night and faced his father's wrath. The man couldn't have hurt him more than this.

She lay under layers of blankets, lost in a sedated sleep awaiting more tests before being sent home. Keith ran two fingers down her pale cheek. "I'm so sorry. I'll never let you be hurt again." Tears brimmed in his eyes. "My love."

He buried his head in her chest, letting the tears pour forth. What would his child have looked like? Who would he have become? One decision. One poorly made decision had cost him so much. He gazed at her white face. And her.

Amanda ran her hands through his hair. "It wasn't your fault but hers for not telling you."

Keith clenched the sheets. He hadn't given her a chance. What must she have thought as he slipped the needle through her skin? Did she think he was going to kill her? One decision. One poorly made decision.

The door to the hospital room opened and Arther and his father walked in. Keith couldn't stand to look at either of them. This was their fault. It was their plans that had led to this moment.

"Keith, get a hold of yourself," Mr. Wilkerson said. He stood in the middle of the room, stoic. Did he not care that it was his grandchild who had died? How could he be so cold?

"It was my baby and I killed it."

Arther ran a hand through Keith's hair, but the once familiar childhood comfort brought no peace. In a calm voice he said, "women have miscarriages all the time. Do you know how many Mary had before we had Ellie?"

Heat burned through him, making his hands tremble. "She didn't kill them."

"Keith...I."

Mr. Wilkerson raised his hand and everyone stilled, focusing on him. He strode to Keith, grabbing his arm. "Stand up."

Keith jumped to his feet, and crossed his hands in front of his waist. He looked at the floor as a chill passed through him. What would he do?

"Listen to me. This is the game we play. Hear me. It was nothing. Now, look at me, boy."

Keith fixed his eyes on his father, cringing back at the deep glare.

"Treason is punishable by death, and we've all done it. Want to make your wife a widow, keep shouting."

Keith shook his head.

Arther broke in. "It's okay, Keith. You can have more. There will be more children. She's a young girl. I talked to McMillian and he said that it won't harm her body."

"I did this to her," he said as he looked at Katie's ghostly form. She looked dead.

"Did you know?" His father asked.

Keith shook his head.

"Then it's her fault."

Maybe it was. He lowered his gaze to the floor. But she had been so scared of him.

"They won't be able to detect it in her blood, will they?" Arther asked.

"No, McMilliam is surprised it made her miscarry," his father said.

"Maybe it didn't," Amanda said, looking down at Katie. "Maybe it was the stress of almost being killed."

"Yeah," Arther said as a smile crossed his face. "That was probably it."

Keith looked to the side. He didn't believe it. It was that vile thing. But there was nothing he could do. There was no way to escape this life that had been designed for him. All he could do was keep trying to protect her. And he would.

Shelly opened the hospital door and stopped dead in her tracks. Keith's usually tan face had ashen; the confident eyes shaken, and he sobbed over Katie. He seemed so broken. Katie was awake, but she had her face turned from Keith - even though he kept speaking to her; mostly telling her he was sorry and that he loved her.

Shelly took a deep breath and clenched her fingers together. This was not going to be easy. But maybe this would be a turning point. She prayed it would.

"How are you, Katie?" Shelly said. She walked to her sister and bent down so she could wrap her arms around her. Katie didn't say anything, but turned her gaze to Shelly.

"Did you know?" Keith asked.

Shelly sat down on a chair, and took Katie's other hand. "Mom and Dad will be here soon." Her voice cracked.

Keith reached across the bed and took Shelly's hand. "Answer me."

There was a redness in his eyes as a darkness grew in them. She turned to her sister. "She was going to tell you this weekend."

"How far?"

"I don't know." Shelly shook her head, and ran some fingers down her sister's face. "But I don't think she was far. She wanted it to be a big surprise." Though it made her cringe to say it, hopefully, her lie would deflect any future anger from her sister.

Keith nodded. Katie seemed out of it. She stared at the hospital wall, as if she didn't realize there were two people in the room. What had happened to her? She looked like a shell. Could this have been caused by the miscarriage or was there more?

"Katie, are you alright?" she asked.

Her sister didn't answer, but closed her eyes, taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly. She was ignoring them.

Shelly stood. "We should let her rest."

"I must be here for her," Keith mumbled out. Shelly pushed her eyes closed. Love your enemies. She walked over to him, and laid a hand on his shoulder.

Please Lord, let him feel comfort and not stiffness. "I know my sister better than anyone. Maybe I can help you comfort her."

He looked at her with hope in his eyes. He nodded and followed her out the door. Closing the door, he stood in front of her peering down into her eyes. He loomed over her, making her feel every inch of her five-feet-two-inches.

"What do I do?" His voice held a sense of eagerness. Maybe he was afraid he was going to lose her.

Shelly raised her hands to the side. "Let her grieve."

His brows knit. "Grieve. Are you serious?" He pointed to the door. "She needs to be happy. Back to the way she was in college."

"You can't force your will on her."

Keith's eyes grew fierce, glaring down as he took a step closer to her. Shelly stumbled a step back.

"Little girl." His voice was tight as if he talked to a child. "You speak foolishly."

Shelly planted her feet on the floor. "I speak what I see."

"Do you?" He bent his head to the side. "And what do you see?"

Please God let me say the right thing. She took his hand. "Loosen up and she'll cling to you. She loves you so much."

Keith's eyes softened as his face relaxed. He nodded, and turned for the door. What just happened? Shelly placed a hand to her mouth. Did he believe her?

Keith carried a half-dazed Katie into the apartment with her family behind him. Taking her to their bedroom, he lay down next to her and caressed the hair out of her face. She still hadn't said a word to him. Not one. He kissed her cheek and wrapped her into his arms. She rolled over and faced the wall. A deep ache grew in him. What had he done to her? Loosen up. That was what he needed to do.

"Please roll back over," he said as he placed a firm hand on her hip.

She shook her head.

"We'll have more."

"Please leave me," she whispered.

"Do you want Shelly?"

"No one."

Keith kissed her cheek before he got up and left. He walked out the door and inched it closed. He could not look at her family, so he concentrated on the floor. "She wants to be alone."

No one responded so he locked himself in the guest room, burying his face into the pillow as he let his tears fall. All he wanted was Katie back; to love him as she had done in college. He wanted to see the innocence in her eyes again.

He stared at the mirror in front of him. There was no confidence in his eyes; just a look of longing, a longing to return to Yale when she'd loved him, and he had done nothing to her. But those moments were a distant memory to him, and he didn't even recognize himself; nor did he recognize the girl he had fallen in love with. This was the path his father was taking him down. Every day his father pushed him into actions he had only heard whispers about as a child. He should tell her to leave. He got up, but then planted himself back on the bed. The ache was too much. The thought too painful. He couldn't let her go; he needed her, even if she no longer needed him.

Katie listened to the mumble of voices outside the door. Her family was here. She wanted to be immersed in their arms, to feel the love and close connection she had given up for Keith. If she emerged, he would want her in his arms, to be the one comforting her, when she longed for something else. If she rejected him for her family, he would be jealous and where could that lead? But? She sat up, and looked at the door. She needed her family. She would play his game for a little bit and then find her way to her mother. She opened the door and peeked through. He wasn't with them. Tension released from her body.

Katie walked through the door and all eyes turned to her.

"Hey," she said as her voice choked. Her family stood and surrounded her, embracing her as one. Her father picked her up and carried her to the couch as she let the tears pour down her face. His strong arms felt comforting and protecting.

He sat on the couch, and Katie buried her face into his chest, as her family each placed a hand on her and prayed.

She stiffened as another door creaked open. She looked up just in time to see Keith shut himself back in the guest room. Her breath escaped from her. What was he thinking? She would have to lie if he asked why she hadn't come to him.

"His heart's broken," Mr. Morris said. He placed her on the couch and walked over to the door, leaning his ear against it.

Katie bit on the tips of her fingers. Please, God. Please. Let nothing bad happen.

"Son, please open up. We're here for you."

There was no response.

He tapped on the door. "Son."

"Go away," Keith shouted. Mr. Morris flinched, and then laid his head back on the door. He stood there for a couple seconds, with his eyes closed probably saying a prayer for Keith. When he was done, he turned to look at his family.

"He should be out here with us."

Katie buried her head into her mother's shoulder, and cried harder. He had no idea. They shouldn't be here, but someone had called them. Who? Keith must have.

Mr. Morris knocked on the door. "Keith, please. We love-"

Something hard crashed against the door making Mr. Morris step back. "What the...."

"Daddy, leave him alone," Shelly said.

Mr. Morris stared at the door, his eyes wide. "Poor boy." He walked back to his family.

Her mother softly sang into her ear the soft lullabies from her childhood. She closed her eyes and listened to the sweet voice, letting herself step back in time to when she was a baby, and there was nothing more comforting than her mother's arms. What a sweet time. She rocked her and caressed her hair. Tears brimmed in her eyes. She had not wanted to rock her child, but she did now. Her arms began to ache. How precious would that child have been? Maybe it was for the best. The child was in Heaven being rocked by Jesus.

The guest bedroom door opened, and images of her babe fled from her mind. She heard footsteps. Where did they lead? She pushed herself from her mother's arms and watched her husband walk to the kitchen. The fridge door opened.

"I bet that sandwich will be delicious, but you don't need the beer," her father spoke.

Oh no. Her body trembled.

Keith sidestepped her father and made his way back to the guest room, with just the beer.

Her father stepped in front of Keith. "Son." Her father reached for Keith. "Come join us. But leave the beer. It will only hurt you."

Keith glared, and tried to walk past him, but Mr. Morris stepped in his way.

"Get out of my way," Keith said through clenched teeth.

Mr. Morris crossed his arms. "No."

Keith threw the bottle on the floor at Mr. Morris's feet. "What?" he shouted. "What?"

Her father didn't even flinch. He just looked down at the smashed bottle and then looked back up at Keith. Mr. Morris took a step closer to Keith and peered up into his eyes. "You're only scaring yourself."

Katie's hand flew to her mouth. The monster was about to be revealed.

"It's okay to grieve, but it's not alright to hurt yourself," Mr. Morris said.

"Really." Keith bent his head to the side. "Sir, you have no idea. I suggest-"

Mr. Morris grabbed Keith by the arm and pulled him into a firm embrace. Keith stood still, silent, his eyes wide and his mouth hanging opened.

"You have no idea." His voice choked.

Shelly grabbed Katie's hand and squeezed it. One could feel the tension in the room, it was so thick. Her father stroked Keith's bangs out of his face, pulling his head to his shoulder. "Did anyone ever hold you as a child?" her father asked.

A tear slipped down Keith's face. No one probably ever did. What must it have been like for him as a little boy? Scared, frightened longing for the love she had given him.

"Sir, I.... It's my fault."

"In time you will see it wasn't. No one can predict such things."

Was he talking about the miscarriage? He couldn't have caused that. No, her lack of love killed the child. "It's my fault," she said. "I caused it."

Keith's eyes opened wide and he left her father, rushing to her. He took her hands. "No. It's mine. I'm so sorry."

Her brows arched. "You're always sorry."

"All I have done is love you," he said as his voice broke -tears dropped onto her hands. Keith reached to the back of her head and pulled it down so their foreheads touched. He tried to look in her eyes. "Do you know that?"

She looked up into his eyes at the tears that formed in them, but wouldn't fall.

"Katie," he said.

Mr. Morris walked over to where they sat. "Evelyn, maybe you and Shelly should start cooking something. We all need to eat."

Footsteps sounded on the hardwood floor. Mr. Morris sat down on the couch. In his hands he held the Bible he had given to Keith. He opened it.

"I love you," Keith mouthed.

"I hate you," she mouthed back. Keith let go of her head and sat on the floor, looking to the side. The tears dried in his eyes, and a sharp anger replaced them. Katie tensed. What might he say or do? She closed her eyes. "I love you, Keith," she whispered.

He sprang off the floor, and in a second, he had her on his lap. He held her, promising he would never let her be hurt again. It was a lie. In a matter of time, he would slip back into his father.

Her family stayed one more day. They had planned to stay the week, but Katie had told them, she wanted to be alone with Keith. She was afraid of what might happen if they stayed; she couldn't let them see Keith at his worse. After they were gone, Katie sat on the blankets that were spread over the floor. She picked one up, and wrapped it around her body, trying to remember the scent of her father, but all she could smell was Keith's cologne. She looked up when she heard feet. Keith stood before her, shirtless, with sweat dripping down his muscular chest.

"We'll go see them soon," he said.

Katie looked down at her lap, as Keith sat down and leaned his head into it.

"I promise, Katie, when you're ready."

She took small deep breaths but the tenseness wouldn't go away. Katie looked at the couch and spotted the Bible. She picked it up and rested it on Keith's forehead, flipping through the pages. There had to be some comfort in here.

"Will you read out loud?" he asked.

She lifted the Bible and looked down at his watery eyes.

"I don't know what to read."

"Is there anything about finding peace?"

"Nothing for us," she said.

"You mean nothing for me."

She placed the Bible on the floor. "No, nothing that can help us." A thought came to her mind. Words that might be able to help them both. Katie caressed his hair. "There is forgiveness, Keith, we could have that. We just need to believe and ask Jesus, and he will."

"That's pretty simple." He pushed his lips together.

"Yes, it is."

His chest rose and fell in a rough irregular pattern. At that moment, something sharp grew in her - a deep, searing pain. He looked so broken. Why did he insist he'd killed the child? He had known nothing of it. She pushed any compassion away. He was too cruel for her to love.

She picked up the Bible and flipped to John 3:16. "For God so..." she read the familiar passage. Maybe God's word would speak to him since only he could change him. All her efforts had failed. If he only would, then she could get out of this mess.

Keith sat on the bed in the guest room with the Bible on his lap. He couldn't turn away from a passage that Katie had highlighted for him. Isaiah 40:22 He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers.

He had been looking for the passages Katie used to read to him, when he noticed all the passages she had highlighted. All dealt with scientific facts that had been proven.

He lay down on the bed. How did they know? He looked up at the ceiling. There must really be a God up there. He took a deep breath and fought the tears. If there really was a God up there then everything else Katie said was true and it was too late for him. He had killed his own child. He grabbed the Bible and threw it against the door. It bounced off as his tears poured forth.

Keith looked at the Bible that now had a broken spine. He clenched his hands into fists. It was the only gift ever given to him with pure love. He crawled over to it and looked down at the page. His eyes caught another highlighted verse.

1 John1: 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

He lay his head down on the Bible pages and inhaled the smell of the ink. Would he really? Something inside of him ached, as if it was drawing him near. Asking him to accept what the passage said. The ache grew as he reread the passage. He got up and turned away. He would never be able to break free of the life his father had made for him. He closed his eyes, and let the passage circulate through his mind. What would it be like to believe; to have that sweet peace that permeated from those passages? It wouldn't last. He would slip back to who he was made to be and then he would be worse off. Keith stood and walked out of the room. He would leave things as they were.

EIGHT

Katie's eyes popped open. Her hands flew to her mouth. All she could see was the face, a strong face, which neither smiled nor grinned, but looked at her as if it was complacent. She removed her hands and bit down on the tips of her fingers. The man held her down as Keith pierced her skin with something. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her irregular quick breaths, but her heart would not stop pounding the blood through her, making her gasp. It must have been a dream. Just a dream.

She tried to roll over and look at her husband, but he was right behind her, his arms wrapped around her in a firm hold. He would never physically hurt her. Doubt crept through her. She reached for his hands and tried to lift his arms; however, they grasped her tightly, and would not budge. She looked at the wall. The face filled her mind. "Keith, wake up."

Keith sat up, and leaned over her face. "Are you okay?"

"Let go of me."

He caressed her cheek, and whispered in her ear that everything was going to be all right. She closed her eyes, but an image of the face filled her mind. "Please, let me go."

He pulled her closer. "I'm going to calm all your fears away." He kissed her cheek. "Talk to me."

What could she tell him? He wouldn't listen. She just had to keep pretending.

"It's been two months, maybe if we started trying for a baby it would help you," he said.

Katie squeezed his hand. "I'm fine." A couple tears fell down her face. "I just had a bad dream about the miscarriage."

Keith kissed her tears as he rolled her over to face him. "I love you," he whispered. "Just push it from your mind."

If she only could. She looked in his eyes. "I love you, too." She caressed his cheeks with her thumbs immersing her other fingers in his hair. He smiled even though in the darkness, she could see tears in his eyes.

"Tell me what to do, Katie, to make you happy."

Katie turned her head to the side, and looked at the ceiling as Keith rested his cheek on hers. She felt so small and so weak. She closed her eyes and tried to will herself to go to sleep, but it didn't work. All she could see was the face. "Just let me rest."

He nodded and pulled her firmly into his arms. The last place she wanted to be.

Katie listened to Keith walk around the room as he got ready for work. She slipped further under the sheets, blackness filling her vision. When the alarm went off this morning she couldn't bear the thought of getting up and putting on the pot of coffee. The face was still ingrained in her mind. The sheets were pulled down just below her eyes. Keith leaned over her. He half-smiled and bent to give her a kiss. "My sister will be by later."

She nodded before he pulled the sheets back above her face, shielding her from the outside world. When she heard the bedroom door close, she rolled over and cried, letting the tears pour forth. She couldn't get the face out of her mind no matter how much she tried. "I can't live like this," she whispered. "I want to die."

Sitting up from the bed, she let the sheets fall. The ache that spread through her was intense. She bit on the sheets as she rocked back in forth, but the pressure wouldn't release. Her whole world seemed to crash around her. Every fantasy, every hope was gone. Her future didn't seem promising.

Without looking, Katie opened the drawer of the nightstand, and searched until she felt the cold metal of the gun.

She clenched it, and removed it from the drawer. Her mind went blank as she raised the black pistol to her forehead and rested the barrel right in between her eyes. The tears poured down her cheeks. "Pull it," she whispered. "Just pull it."

She moved her finger over the trigger, caressing it like a child. "God has already forgiven you."

She closed her eyes.

"Pull." Katie dropped the pistol on the floor and sprang back as her heart pounded against her chest. The gun landed with a thump on the floor. She picked it up. There was not one finger smudge on it. What kind of gun did he own? She put the pistol back up and buried her face into her hands. What was she going to do? If she couldn't even pull one trigger, how could she flee?

Katie wrapped herself in a blanket and found a seat on the couch. Not one inch of her wanted to move. A show on the TV talked about the benefits of exercise. She laughed. She didn't need to exercise to lose weight. In fact, Keith had commented that she was losing too much. It was true, her clothes hung loose on her body. Maybe now she could have a slice of German chocolate cake.

Someone knocked on the door. Katie lay down and brought the blanket to her face, but then lowered it. Darkness made her think of the man in her dreams.

Ashley's face peeked from behind the door. "Hi, Katie."

"Hey."

Ashley sat down next to Katie and pulled her into her arms – the now familiar embrace soothed her. Katie leaned her head against her shoulder.

"How are you?" Ashley asked.

"I put his pistol to my head."

Ashley pulled her closer, clenching her tight as if she feared Katie might actually do it. "Katie?"

"I couldn't do it. Not even to get away from him."

Ashley caressed Katie's shoulder. "If you leave him, Katie, you must disappear. You can't go where he could easily find you. But I don't know if there is such a place. But I'll try to help you the best I can. "

Katie turned to her as a small glow ignited. A plan. Ashley was talking about a plan.

"You'll have to act like you still want him," Ashley said.

"He knows when I pretend."

"He wants you to love him so badly, he'll let himself be fooled."

Katie nodded and leaned back into the couch. Could she really make him believe she loved him? Be tender with him. That's all she had to do and maybe he wouldn't realize it. But that wasn't the only issue to overcome.

She pushed from Ashley's arms and walked to her bedroom, leaving her friend on the couch. She picked up the Bible sitting on her nightstand and flipped through the pages. Lately she had been reading it, trying to find words to comfort her, to help her get through this, but she found nothing. Why didn't the Bible ever deal with the issue of abused wives? If it did she would know what path to take. She had to have God's favor and to get that she needed to listen to him, something she had failed to do over the last couple years. Katie closed the book and straightened, wrapping her arms around her waist. She needed someone to talk to - someone who Keith would never expect her to meet with.

Soft steps approached the bedroom. She turned as Ashley leaned against the door frame, her green eyes moist.

"Do you know a priest I can talk to?"

A chill swept over her as she slipped into the small room and found a seat on a wooden bench. No ornate crosses or drapery decorated the room - just black drapes that covered the walls. Wasn't she supposed to make some sign over her chest or something, but she had never been to a catholic church and knew nothing of the rituals. All Ashley had told her to do was slide the little wooden door back when she was ready.

Katie spotted the door and slid it back. The room instantly filled with the scent of herbs and incense. A low voice quieted and she heard movement. She had interrupted his prayer.

"How can I help you child?" said a man with a deep voice.

Katie bit on her bottom lip and fumbled with the rosary Ashley had handed her without telling her why she would need it. "I need guidance, Father. Will you help me?""

"What do you need help with?"

Images of an elderly man at least six-feet tall and a head full of gray hair filled her vision. Katie swallowed hard. Not one part of her wanted to speak of her life, but she had come here for one reason. "Father, would it be alright if I left my husband?"

"Why do you wish to leave him?"

Katie leaned towards the wall, wishing to see if there was any compassion in his eyes. "He's abusive towards me," she whispered.

"I see."

"Would God approve?"

Something rattled on the wall. She looked down as a pamphlet slipped through an opening landing on a gray bowl. Katie inched her hands towards it and turned it over, reading St. Elizabeth's Abby. A nunnery. Why would he give her this?

"The nuns there," he said breaking into her thoughts. "Hide women in your situation. Please go to them."

The paper shook in her hands as she clenched it. A spark of hope filled her. "So God would approve?"

"My dear, God doesn't want you to be beaten to death. He has a purpose for you. So leave and only, and I mean only, return to him if he shows true repentance. Do you understand me?"

He said she should leave and protect herself, but he was just a man. How could she know he spoke God's words? "I could find no Bible verse to help me.

"My dear."

Katie ran her fingers over the beads - feeling the smooth glass. He probably thought of her as some silly girl, but she needed something to cling to. "Yes, Father?"

"You are to obey all authority, right?"

"Yes father."

"Even when they tell you to deny Christ?"

"Oh, no Father." She shook her head, making a curl bounce off her cheek. "Christians are to stand up for the faith."

"Then stand up for your life. Leave."

Her breath fled from her as the truth of his words sank in. Tonight, she'd make Keith think she loved him.

That night, when Keith came home, Katie had a hot steaming pot of stew with ABC noodles in it cooking on the stove. The scent of the seared beef intermixed well with the onions and whole tomatoes floated around her. Of all the meals she made, Keith loved this one the best. She walked out of the kitchen wearing a black silk dress that clung to her curves.

"Hey," she said, rubbing her fingers.

Keith smiled and walked over to her. He placed his hands on her hips, and bent down to kiss her cheek. "You look so beautiful."

"Thank you," she whispered and wrapped her arms around his waist.

"Are you feeling better?" he asked.

"Yeah, I do."

"Good." Keith traced a finger down her cheek. She turned from him and headed to the kitchen. During dinner, she told Keith about a novel idea that she was thinking about, and other few bits of information, and in between spoonfuls of soup, he would stare at her with a smile on his face. Katie bent her face to the side and peered into his dark blue eyes. He really had no clue, did he?

After dinner, Keith sat on the couch and flipped through the channels until he stopped on a game. Katie slipped on a white slip with lace around the edges. She studied her reflection in the mirror. Every curl seemed in place. She practiced her best smile, batting her eyelashes. Please let him be fooled. Her eyes twinkled. She looked innocent and virginal, the way Keith liked her best.

She tiptoed out of their bedroom and made her way to him, brushing her fingers over his shoulder.

He turned around and smiled, biting on the side of his bottom lip. She cringed, taking a step back. Did she really have to do this; give herself to this man before she was able to leave?

"Come here." He held out his hands for her. His eyes were wild with excitement.

She tilted her head to the side. "Why should I?"

He chuckled and got off the couch. "Because you'll drive me mad."

Good. She turned for the bedroom with him at her heels. She walked in and shut the door after he entered.

He grasped her and pulled her into his embrace, making her eyes widen. It was easier just to lay there, she realized, as he planted rough kisses on her neck, pushing the straps off her shoulders. The slip fell to the floor, as her body chilled. But she couldn't just lay there. She had to pretend. She pictured Jeff with his boyish smile - his light blue eyes filled her mind. Her kiss deepened. She would have kissed Jeff like this.

"There's my Katie," he whispered.

If he only knew, he'd kill her.

Keith took one long last sip of his coffee, set it on the counter and reached for her pulling her into a firm embrace. His lips found hers, deepening into a passionate kiss. "Last night was amazing," he whispered into her ear before releasing her and heading out the door.

Katie wrapped her arms around her waist. How long would she have to keep this up? She picked up his coffee mug and finished what remained. She waited a couple minutes, making sure he didn't return for something he forgot.

She looked at the clock. 8:15. She had forty-five minutes before the maid came. She rushed to her bedroom, threw on a pair of blue jeans and a sweater and went to meet Ashley at a nearby convenience store.

The girls embraced. Ashley pulled from her. "Are you sure, Katie?"

Katie studied her unsettled eyes. She took her hands and squeezed them. "I have to. I can't live like this."

Ashley nodded. "It's probably not going to work, but I'll see what can be done."

"Thank you." Katie turned from her and made her way to the pay phone. She slipped the quarters in and called her sister's dorm room. Hopefully, she could catch her in between classes.

"Hello?"

Katie's heart leapt. "Shelly, can you talk?" she half-whispered as blood rushed through her body. Her hands shook, making the phone bump against her ear.

"What's wrong? Are you okay?" She could hear fear in her sister's voice.

"Shelly, I'm going to leave him."

The other end was silent as she waited for her sister to respond.

"Shelly?"

"Katie, I'm so happy." There were tears in her sister's voice. "When?"

"As soon as I can figure things out. I need somewhere to go. It can't be home, but somewhere Keith would never think of." Her stomach turned as she remembered the brochure the priest had given her. Ashley had quickly shot the nunnery down, saying Keith's father had too many connections in the church.

"Jeff," her sister shouted through the phone. "He's living with his aunt in Tarboro."

Every part of her chilled. Jeff, the one person Keith despised most. Would it be safe? Jeff would protect her, and Keith knew nothing about Jeff's aunt.

"I'll talk to him tonight, and we can start planning." Shelly explained that Jeff had dropped out of school and was helping his aunt to run a bookstore.

Katie turned to Ashley and told her what she had learned.

The girl shook her head. "It's too close. You have to disappear – start a new life. We'll need to get you a new identity. Maybe I can find someone to help with that."

"But he would never guess."

"Katie, Keith will track you down. His family has resources you can't imagine. When I say disappear, I mean disappear. You'll have to forget about everyone you love."

Katie stilled. She couldn't forget about her family – she would die without them. Besides, Keith wouldn't hurt her. He might drag her back, but that would be it. She'd just have to take the risk. But what if.... "No, I'll stay with Jeff."

Ashley's eyes widened. "Katie."

"God will protect me." Katie turned back to the phone. "Call him."

Katie ran a hand over the smooth plastic cover of the license. "How did Ashley get this?" A North Carolina driver's license bearing the name Abby Langston – the name of a child who'd died the day after she was born. This child's birth certificate helped Katie find a new identity, and would help her find a new life. Would it work? Ashley said no one would ever know until Keith tracked her down. Katie shuddered. Ashley had no confidence that she would be able to escape, so why did she help her? That would probably remain a mystery.

Katie took the driver's license and the new birth certificate and hid them in a place Keith never looked, a box where she kept her feminine products. She sat on the cold bathroom floor. Two more days until everything would be in order. Ashley would have the passport ready and a plane would leave from JFK airport to RDU only a few hours after Keith left for work, giving her ample time to slip out the door of their home to safety. Only two more days of making love to Keith and pretending she found pleasure. Only two more days, of smiling when he came home from work and acting happy with whatever he bought her. Just two more long excruciating days.

She crossed her legs. The room at Jeff's aunt's was ready. She smiled. Jeff said, he would kill Keith if he showed up. He had even begun the process to get his gun license. Two more days. She stood up as the door to their apartment opened. She walked into the living room and smiled. Keith held a book she had mentioned she liked.

"You were listening last night." Katie walked up to him and wrapped her arms around him.

He kissed the top of her head. "I always listen," he said, tickling her chin.

"That's debatable." She kissed his chest, making him suck in his breath. Two more days.

NINE

The soft clanging of bells filled her ears, making her eyes pop open. Keith reached over her and pressed it off - his skin sliding over her bare body. A yawn escaped from her lips. She had barely slept last night. Katie rolled over on her side and focused on the wall - with her eyes trailing the lavender border at the top. This would be her last morning here. Keith breathed deeply as he struggled to wake himself up. Last night was another late one.

He pushed himself up and rolled out of the bed. "I should be used to this," he said.

She smiled and brushed his bangs out of his face. Best to keep up appearances.

Their eyes connected and Katie's heart jumped. His eyes glittered in the early morning light, making him look like a youth. Like the boy she had fallen in love with. Would a part of her always love him?

"Jesus always said, too much sleep brings about poverty," she said, hoping to remind him of his Bible. Maybe he would find comfort in it after she was gone.

Keith kissed her head, sending the familiar tremors through her before leaving to wash up.

She laid out his clothes, and made him coffee. Her heart tugged. She pressed down on the side of her head. Why now? All week she had despised his presence and now part of her wanted to stay and see if she could make him change. No, he wouldn't change. He had never changed one bit for her.

Keith came into the kitchen, fully dressed for work with his coat in his hands. He drank the coffee down and reached for her, pulling her into his arms. He gave her a long, sensuous kiss that made her toes tingle.

"I can't wait to come home tonight," he said, before leaving.

But she could. Katie sat at the kitchen table and let the tears pour down her face, trying to purge all her emotions out. It shouldn't be this hard. Why did her emotions conflict this much? Yes, he was being loving now, but tonight he could easily lock her in the room again with no thought. She looked around the kitchen she had shared with him for a few brief years. Over the stove hung the chicken towel he had made fun of when she bought it. He had called her a country bumpkin. She ran a hand over the blue cover mats on the table. They had picked these out together. Katie balled her hand into a fist. Things would only get worse as Ashley said. It would be best to leave before he did hit her.

She slipped the rings off her fingers and made her way to the bedroom, placing them in her jewelry box and then picked up the 8x10 wedding picture. She would bring one memory and nothing else.

Two hours later, Katie took a cab to the airport. In her hand she clutched the fake I.d. which rattled in her shaking grasp. She closed her eyes. Please God protect us. All of us and please Lord let Keith find you. Let him become the man you want him to be.

Once at the airport, she pulled a black baseball cap as far down her head as it would go. She must look like a terrorist instead of the wife of a billionaire's son since she wore nothing but gray sweats and a small book bag was her only luggage. She walked up to the counter, and handed the clerk her plane ticket. The woman brushed a lock of her hair out of her face, stamped Katie's ticket, never once looking at her I.d..

Katie took the document and smiled. Now she only had to make it on the plane and through the rest of her life without Keith catching up to her.

People bumped into her or rushed past while she waited behind a long line. She had forgotten what it was like to go through security and to have her luggage checked. Keith and she had always slipped through checks with not one person batting an eye, but now it took her three hours just to be able to board a plane.

She focused on the end of the terminal as she walked through the long blue hallway. Once she had run through one to get to Keith, jumping into his arms. His eyes had glowed that day. Her stomach turned. She needed to stop thinking of him, or she'd never be able to move on.

The sides of the plane appeared to press in on her with all the passengers crowded together. A baby cried at the back, while a man talked on his cellphone loud enough for all the passengers to hear. Katie found her seat and stretched her feet as far as she could, a mere half a foot in front of her. Her life with Keith had spoiled her. She would have to relearn how to live with just enough.

She closed her eyes and leaned back into her seat as a weight pressed upon her and her nerves began to calm down. No one had tried to stop her. The Wilkerson arm must not reach as far as Ashley thought it did. A yawn escaped from her lips. Maybe it wouldn't be too hard to avoid him.

Katie's eyes popped open as someone tapped her shoulder - every part of her stiffened. Keith.

A young woman with light brown short hair and an inviting smile touched her shoulder again.

"We have arrived at RDU, ma'am."

Katie nodded. She had made it. This was too easy.

Keith walked into the apartment and dropped his briefcase. He walked to the couch and sat down, letting his body sink into the cushion. It had been another long day. The money his firm slipped around today had greased the wheels for another lucrative government contract. He turned his head to the side. Where was Katie? Usually she appeared, when he came home either with a cup of tea in her hand or a dinner plate.

"Katie," he shouted out, but he heard no response, or feet moving in the apartment. He stood and walked to the bedroom. Maybe she was tired and had laid down. He opened the door and noticed the sheets were not disturbed. He flicked on the lights. She was not there.

"Katie," he shouted as he opened his phone, and called hers. He listened to it ring, and then lowered it from his ear when he heard a sound from the kitchen. He went there, following the sound of the ringing. He stopped when he saw the phone on the table.

"What?" he whispered as he picked the phone off the table; catching a glimpse of white paper. He picked it up and read, "Keith, I'm fine; don't come looking for me. Please read your Bible."

He crumbled the note in his hand as a deep heat spread throughout him. She was nowhere around. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Stay calm. You can bring her back. He flipped her phone opened and pulled up Shelly's number.

It rang several times, but no one answered. He dialed it again, but this time, he left a message. "Shelly, if she's with you, have her call me." Keith closed the phone and brought it to his lips, slightly banging it, even though he wanted to fling it across the room.

He picked his phone up and called Arther.

"Hello."

"Katie's gone!"

"Son?"

"She's gone! She left me a note!"

"Katie left you! Check the accounts; she probably wiped them clean."

"Got ya." He hung up the phone and went to the office, turning on his computer. The light reflected against a stack of bank cards. He picked them up and dropped them one by one. She had left every single one she owned.

He pulled up his accounts. There was not one withdrawal. Maybe he could close them, but then if she withdrew something he would know where she was. He picked up her phone and called her parents, but no one answered. "Hey Mr. Morris, if Katie is with you could you please call me? We had a spat and I just want to apologize." He closed the phone.

"Why did she do this?" He laid his head on his hands. "She was happy." Keith jumped to his feet and knocked the computer screen onto the floor, making it break open. "She fooled me."

TEN

Keith walked into his father's office, sat down in front of his desk and glared at him. He didn't want this conversation, but best to get it over with. His father would help him get her back and then make her stay. He had done it once before with his mother. Now, Keith understood the anger that had pushed his father to reclaim his wife. His mother should have stayed. All she had to do was listen. Just like Katie should have.

His father leaned back into his seat – his white dress shirt stretched with his movements. His eyes narrowed contrasting with the full smile. "So she left you. I told you to have Sullivan keep an eye on her," his father said. "But you wanted no one looking at your wife, but you."

Keith's father's lips curved in a smirk. He was mocking him.

Keith folded his hands in his lap. He wouldn't respond to his mockery, letting him see how each word fueled the heat boiling in him.

"Did she wipe out the accounts?"

"She took nothing."

Mr. Wilkerson raised his eyebrows. "Nothing?"

"Not one penny."

"Did you call the airlines?"

Keith leaned his head into his hand, pushing down. "Yes, and there was no plane ticket anywhere under her name. I even checked her maiden name."

"She's been planning this."

He looked to the side. "She must have."

"Someone didn't talk to her, did they?"

Keith banged the table. "She doesn't know anything," Keith said through clenched teeth.

"What are you going to do?"

"I'm going to find her and bring her back."

"What if she ran off with a guy?"

"I'll still bring her back. She's mine!"

Mr. Wilkerson chuckled. "That's my boy. You are almost there." His father looked back at the papers on his desk. He had been dismissed with not one word of advice. Apparently, he would have to figure this out on his own.

Keith stood and walked out of the office. He went to a small office where an intern sorted through a stack of legal documents. He dropped Katie's phone in front of him.

The intern looked up at him. "Sir, can I help you?"

"Call everybody in this phone and find my wife. Say you're a friend who is looking for her. And tell no one."

The intern nodded and picked up the phone.

Keith went to his office and sat behind his desk, looking at the rows of manila folders. He picked up a pencil, grabbed a yellow notepad and wrote, Where could Katie have gone? He traced the name over several times. Marvin would do a good job calling her friends. The young man, a few years younger than him, had already proven he had a sly hand and knew that nothing went beyond the Wilkerson's law office doors. His father was already grooming him to be one of the firm's top lawyers.

"Mr. Wilkerson."

He looked up and noticed the intern had walked in and shut the door. "I called the first person on the list Shelly, and well she knew I was working for you."

"She did?"

"Yes, sir, she said for you to leave Katie alone."

"That is where she's at. Don't you think?"

"If I had to guess sir. Yes."

"Call the other people on the list, and tell me what you find out."

The intern nodded and walked out of the room. Keith turned to his computer and pulled up their bank account info. The balances still had not changed. He shook his head. Why hadn't she taken anything?

Shelly and Katie lay on the bed at Jeff's. Neither wanted to move, but just hold each other. Jeff sat at their feet, with his hands gripped together. The childhood friends now stood as one, waiting to face the challenge ahead together. Katie buried her face into the black cotton of her sister's shirt. She didn't want to face this challenge. Shelly had left their parents a note, in their mailbox, telling them not to talk to Keith, but to please meet them at Jeff's. They were expecting them soon, and as every hour passed, the more Katie's nerves unraveled. She didn't know how to tell her father that the man he called his son was an abusive control freak.

The sound of a knock on the door made Katie squeeze her sister tighter. Jeff stood from the bed and walked to the front door.

"Hello, sir," he said.

She flinched at the heavy clumps of their father's footsteps. Her parents were here.

Katie sat up when the door to the room opened and her father walked in, with her mother behind him. Something sharp pierced through her heart. She would give anything to make things how her father believed them. He loved Keith as much as she once had.

"Hey baby," he said as he sat on the bed, and gave her a hug. He pulled her from himself. "Did you and Keith have a fight?"

His eyes looked soft as if he waited to soothe her. How could she fight this? Katie looked at her sister and lost it - the tears poured down her face in unending streams. She reached for her and pulled her into her arms - hoping her sister would battle for her. Any strength she might have had, had long been demolished by Keith.

Her father caressed her back. "Katie, all couples grow through rough times."

Shelly shook her head. "Mama, he's horrible to her."

A gasp that must have come from her mother filled the room.

"Katie." Mr. Morris ran his fingers down her hair – the touch just made her tenser. "I'm sure it's nothing that can't be worked out."

"We never saw it," Shelly said. Her voice sounded so tight, like she was fighting wanting to yell.

"Shelly, what are you talking about?"

"Daddy, he locked us in a room. He controls everything she does."

Katie peeked up from her hiding spot. The color left their father's face. He shook his head as tears swelled in his eyes. "Keith's a nice boy." He turned to look at his wife.

"He fooled us," she said. She crossed her arms and sat down on the bed. The black and pink-checkered quilt bunched up around her. "He really did."

Mr. Morris stood and placed a hand over his heart, squeezing his shirt. "He locked her in a room," he whispered.

"All the time, Daddy. He even almost hit me," Shelly said.

"He what?" Mr. Morris's gaze snapped to her sister. He then sat back on the bed and grabbed Katie's shoulders, making her look at him. A sharp look filled his eyes. "Did he hit you?"

Her lips trembled.

"Did he?"

She shook her head, trying to hold tears in. "He did shove me against a wall," she whispered. And raised a hand to her. But she couldn't tell him that or how he made her stand in the middle of the room naked.

Her father pulled her to his chest. "I'm going to kill him. I really am."

Katie squeezed her father tight, trying to find some comfort, but there was none to be found. What would Keith do, if her father tried to protect her? Slice his throat. A shudder filled her. Please Lord, don't let him be capable of that.

Keith sat at his desk, banging his phone up and down as he stared at the door in front of him. Every part of him wanted to jump from this seat and rush to Clayton and drag her back home. She was there. He just knew it, but he couldn't prove where exactly she was. Patience. Just stay patient. He felt his phone vibrate, so he picked it up. "Found her?" he asked.

"She's not in Clayton," an agent said.

"Well, where is she?" he shouted.

"I don't know, but give me a couple days. She doesn't appear to be with any of her family members, except for Shelly, so I'm going to have to dig a little harder."

"Find her." Keith slammed his phone down. And find her quickly.

ELEVEN

Keith held the pen over the document. She was not in Clayton, but her parents were, so where could she be? It had been two weeks and his men hadn't been able to find one clue of the girl. He shook his head and turned to the document in front of him. He needed to keep reading this briefing report, making sure every detail aligned with their case. He should go to Clayton and force the details from her parents, but his father said to wait until they knew where she was. Wait and catch her off guard. Keith looked up when his phone beeped. He pressed the intercom button.

"Yes, Jacky."

"There is a Mr. Sullivan here to see you."

"Send him in," Keith said. He looked up as the door opened, and Jacky showed Sullivan in. Sullivan glared at her until she quickly slipped behind the door and shut it. He really could scare people with just a glance. Sullivan walked over to the desk, and dropped a brown envelope onto it. Keith picked it up. The only thing written on it was Mrs. Wilkerson.

"Took you long enough," Keith said as he opened the envelope.

"I had better things to do."

"You work for me, now." Keith slammed his fist on the table.

Sullivan folded his hands in front of him, no emotions on his face.

Keith pulled out the documents and laid them on the table. He read the short note that explained where Katie was and what she was doing.

"She's living with Jeff." He squeezed the papers in his hands, wanting to shred them. If she let him touch her, he.... Keith shook his head. Jeff would never touch anything again.

Keith set the document down, and picked up the pictures of Katie, flipping through them. He ran his finger down a picture of her leaning on a counter, looking at a magazine.

Keith stood from the chair. "Thank you." He grabbed his coat and walked out the door to the intern's desk.

"Come, Marvin, we're going on a trip."

The intern looked up; his dark brown brows wrinkled.

"What are you doing, Marvin? Come on." The intern nodded, grabbed his coat and followed Keith out the door.

In an hour, Keith was on a plane to North Carolina.

There was something happening between them. Though her feelings for Jeff were different than hers for Keith, he made her feel special and worth it. She giggled after he told her a joke and flipped through the pages of the magazine, since she couldn't look at his eyes for long. For the last couple weeks, life had been wonderful. She had begun volunteering at the church's Sunday school, renewing her dream of teaching. At home rested an application package for East Carolina University. If things continued to be calm she would take classes in the fall in pursuit of her teaching certificate. This was the life she wanted to live. A life to own herself instead of being someone else's.

"You know," he said. "If...."

The bell over the door rang. She looked up and smiled at the tall slender young man who wore a pair of blue jeans and a N.C. State t-shirt. His light brown hair was ruffled to the side, making him look like he'd just rolled out of bed. "Can I help you?" she asked.

The young man looked at the rows of books that lined the walls. "Man, I don't know where to begin."

Katie walked from behind the counter. "What are you looking for?"

"My mother's birthday is coming up, and I thought since she loves to read I'd get her a book." The boy chuckled as he shook his head. "But I have no idea what to get."

The young man seemed out of his world as he stared at the bookcases full of books with wide-eyes that spoke of being lost. He must not be an avid reader or he would understand the workings of a bookstore.

Katie smiled. "What's her favorite genre?"

"Romance, but not the kind with all the sex."

Katie nodded and walked over to the Ss. "Does she like Nicolas Spark?"

The boy shrugged his shoulders. Katie grabbed the most recent Nicolas Spark book, and handed it to the boy. "If she has it already you can exchange it."

His face lit up, a smile stretched across his face. "Thanks." The boy bought the book and walked out the door.

Katie returned to her place behind the counter and she and Jeff began talking again. She could not subdue the smile on her face. Time passed and an elderly lady walked into the store. Shelly helped her, but as she got off the ladder and handed the book to the old lady, Shelly's eyes widened and she shook her head. "Katie, he's here."

Katie's head snapped towards the window. Keith strolled to the bookstore, dressed as for work.

"I'm not." Katie ducked behind the counter and crawled through the door that led to the back.

She sat in a chair, wrapping her arms around her waist, trying to calm her shaking body. Rows of boxes lined the walls around her making her feel trapped. What was he going to do? How did he find her? Tears brimmed in her eyes. Had Ashley been right? Foolish girl. She shook her head. She should have listened and went to some exotic place. Maybe she could have brought her family.

Keith's voice broke the stillness. "I know she's here."

She stilled and leaned towards the door.

"She's not here. I don't know where she is."

"Shelly, my intern just bought a book from her. I know she's here."

"What?"

Katie's breath pushed from her.

"I want to talk to my wife."

Katie buried her face into her hands. They had been tricked.

Shelly walked through the back door looking like she had seen a ghost - her face had ashen, but a steeliness filled her eyes.

"I knew he'd find me," Katie said.

"I'm going to call the cops, and they'll make him leave."

"No, I should talk to him." Katie stood from the seat and made her way to the front counter, avoiding her sister's wide eyes. Keith stood in front of her, lips pushed into a thin line – his eyes full of a tense, sharp look.

"Katie," Jeff said, clutching his gun.

Keith chuckled and fixed his eyes on Katie. "Katie, I want to speak to you alone."

She stepped back from the counter and motioned for Keith to follow her.

"Katie, I don't know if...," Jeff said.

"It's fine, Jeff, he's not going to hurt me." She squeezed her hands together. At least she hoped he wouldn't.

She walked through the back door with him at her heels. Planting her feet firmly on the floor, she focused on the wall as he walked around her. What would Keith say to her? It had been weeks and now he showed up. But why? Did it take him that long to find her, or had he been waiting until the right moment?

"What is going on?" He reached for her shoulders, but she stepped back from him and he let his hands fall to his side. "Katie?" He knit his brows.

"I left you, and I'm not going back."

"Why?" The sharpness deepened in his eyes. Katie took a deep breath. She had been practicing what to say if he ever showed up, but now she lost the words. She took a couple more steps back, and wrapped her arms around her waist. "Look, I really don't want to talk about this right now, so please just go back to New York, and I'll call you in a month."

"A month, a month," he shouted. "You're my wife and you're going back with me." He grabbed her by the arm and yanked her close.

"Keith," she yelled.

His eyes widened. He let go of her arm. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have grabbed you."

Katie stumbled back and leaned against a shelf. "Will you leave now?"

"I'm staying at a hotel in Greenville. Can I see you tonight?"

She rubbed her arm, trying to smooth out the feeling of his strong grip, yanking her to him as if he owned her. "I would rather you didn't."

"I want to talk to you after I have had a chance to calm down."

"I...."

"I'll see you tonight." He walked out the door, slamming it.

Katie sat back on the stool and buried her face in her hands as tears poured from her. A couple seconds later, Shelly ran into the back and wrapped her arms around her sister.

"I called Dad," she said. "He'll be here soon."

Katie laid her head against her sister's shoulder. He had let her go and looked as if he knew what he did was wrong. Was there still a shred of humanity in him that could be reached before he crossed the line? Tonight, she would try to reason with him, making him see what he had done. Then he would leave her alone.

Her father showed up a couple hours later, right before the sun began to go down. He came with only one item; a fully loaded shotgun. She held up her hands. "Don't, Daddy."

Her father raised the gun. "Just let him touch you."

Katie wrapped her arms around her father and buried her face into his shirt. "Please stay in the bedroom. It would be best if I explained things to him."

Her father cocked the gun when car lights filled the driveway. "I'll be ready." He went into the bedroom.

Katie sat on the plaid couch, focusing on the floral pot filled with dried flowers in front of her. A weatherman on T.V. talked about how the temperatures would be rising. Just what she needed.

The door to the house opened. He didn't even knock. She closed her eyes and focused on his steps. Had he always moved so quietly like a snake?

She glanced at him as he sat next to her. His hair was slicked back as if he just gotten out of the shower. He wore a long-sleeve black Yankee shirt and a pair of dark blue jeans. Must be trying to remind her of college. She turned to the TV as he reached to her and ran the back of his hand down her cheek, leaving Goosebumps. The TV turned off. Keith held the remote control, his eyes focused on her, peering through her.

She looked away, and placed a hand to her chilled cheek. "No one knew where I was, so how did you locate me?" she asked.

"You're not a hard girl to find."

Ashley's words came back to haunt her. You have to disappear. But would it have mattered? Probably not. Surely he could have found her in some backwards country as easily as he'd found her now.

"I want you to come back," he said.

She stiffened. For the last couple weeks, she had been so free, loving the fact that she could make her own decisions, no longer walking on tiptoes because she was afraid to spark his anger. Everything had been so peaceful. She thought of Jeff. He still didn't seem like a man compared to Keith, but she didn't care. His boyish charm, his simple life pulled her towards him. "I'm not."

"Why?" He demanded, making her flinch.

"I hate being with you." Please God let him understand. Please

Keith nodded. "Is that how you feel? I have given you everything you could need or want. But you hate being with me."

"Yes." She bit on the top of her fingers. Her body trembled. He just didn't see it. None of it. He wasn't raised to see it. Just power and control. To have everything he wanted laid at his feet.

"Why?"

"I want a divorce." I want freedom.

He tapped the remote control against the couch, bouncing it as if he was keeping time with it. "I'll let you teach. So come back with me."

Katie sprang to her feet. "You'll let me. That's the problem. You think you own me."

"Come back!"

"I'm not coming back!"

Keith stood and glared down into her eyes. "I will fight any attempts for a divorce."

His eyes were tense, fierce, but she held her ground. "You'll not win," she said, pointing to the door. "Now leave."

He chuckled, taking her chin in his hand. One finger ran along her bottom lip. "Little girl, you should know who you're married to."

"I know," she whispered, as a tear fell down her cheek. "Please leave."

He bent to her cheek, kissed it and then released her. "Don't push this, pretty thing, you'll lose."

She gazed into his sharp eyes; eyes that could slice through her. No lightness filled them. He patted her cheek and then turned for the door, leaving her feeling cold.

He gripped the door handle and glanced back at her. A lock of bangs fell over his forehead. "By the way, I think the clerks lost those divorce papers you filed." He walked out the door, slamming it behind him.

She took a quick intake of breath. What did he just say?

The door to the bedroom flew open and slammed against the wall. Her father fled past her and out the front door. She ran to the window and threw it open.

"William," her father shouted.

Keith stopped in his tracks and turned around. He didn't even flinch when her father raised the gun to his head.

"Stay away from my daughter."

"Or what?" Keith took a step closer so the gun rested against his forehead. "You'll shoot?"

He was scared of nothing.

Her father stood just as strong. "Don't test me boy. If you touch her again, I'll kill you."

"I never touched your daughter."

"Keep telling yourself that."

Keith looked at her, making her squeeze the top of the window.

"What lie did you tell him?" he shouted.

Katie slammed the window shut.

Keith shook his head, and turned around, but her father kept the gun in the air until Keith got into his car and drove off. She crumpled to the floor, letting the tears finally pour forth. They had been so close, almost like father and son, and now? She balled her hands into fists, pushing them into her eyes. Why did he have to be so controlling? Everything had been so wonderful and now the glass illusion had fully shattered. Her father came into the house and wrapped her into his arms.

"My baby, he's not going to hurt you anymore."

She clung to her father. If she could just be his little girl, and not one more woman running from a controlling husband. A husband who had no intention of letting her go. How far would he go to once again have her under his control?

Katie and Jeff sat on the porch of the house; everyone else was asleep. Her tears had dried hours ago, but she couldn't rest. She could still see that glare in his eyes. The glare that reminded her so much of his father. She squeezed her hands together. He was his father. She took a deep breath. "He's so manipulative, I don't know if this is really him, or who his father made him to be." She bit her bottom lip, as tears built in her eyes. "Sometimes I wonder if I could get him away, he'd be the Keith I knew at Yale, but I don't know."

Jeff stared into the distance; his eyes blank as if he contemplated some far off thought. "I should have asked you out when I had the chance."

Katie's mouth fell open, but her heart leapt. Jeff had never spoken words of affection. She had often wondered what he felt.

"If I had, then maybe we would have gotten together and you would have never married him." He looked at her and smiled. "But maybe we can date now. Can I take you to dinner?"

A smile crossed her face. She looked down the road, hoping not to see Keith's BMW. "I don't know. I have so many questions and thoughts." She wanted to, badly, but she had promised to follow the Bible more strictly, and she had no idea what it said about remarriage. What if it forbade it? A deep sense of loss settled in her gut. What if she had given away her one chance at true happiness?

Jeff took her hand. His eyes were light and misty, speaking of a deep longing. "Katie, I will wait as long as it takes."

Katie licked her lips. Something pulled her towards him. She bent down, touching his lips gently with her own. The kiss was sweet and pure, sending a small thrill through her and making her toes tingle. "I can't wait."

He opened his eyes and half smiled. "It will be amazing." Jeff put an arm around her shoulders as she rested her head on his chest, and listened to the smooth rhythm of his heart. For the first time she loved the smell of cheap cologne.

Blood trickled from his nose as he lay on the bed, and placed the white nightgown on his bare skin, caressing it. A glass plate lay next to the bed, covered in cocaine. Pages of his Bible lay everywhere. He couldn't find the peaceful verses. Every one he found convinced him he was on a path to eternal darkness. He couldn't think about that now. But it gnawed at him, as if begging him to turn, telling him he would only find peace if he gave in. He would if he knew it would last, but this God couldn't be stronger than the will of his father.

He closed his eyes and smelled the perfume that always made him think of the sunrise. He took a deep breath, but it didn't work, a small tear formed in one eye but didn't fall. He opened his eyes and looked at the ceiling. He could still see her scared eyes when he grabbed her. What had he become? But when he was angry he just acted. He took another deep breath. He acted like his father. And when she had ordered him out of the house, he'd tried to scare her into listening. She was his. Why couldn't she just listen?

"What do you want?" he whispered to this God. "Could you?" he asked, listening for a voice, anything. Katie always said God spoke to her, but God didn't speak to him.

The ringing of his phone faded in and out. How powerful could this God be? Would he even want him? The gnawing grew as the ringing of the phone deepened. What did this God think? A beeping sound replaced the sharp rings. Keith grabbed the phone. "Hey."

"I want you back with your wife tomorrow," his father demanded.

"I'm working on it." He clenched his hands.

"Drag her back."

Keith sat up from the bed. "Look, her father has gone all macho. He put a gun to my head. I just can't grab her." Mr. Morris's eyes had looked fierce. A searing pain crossed his heart. He had loved Mr. Morris, but now.... He dug his fingernails into his palms. He had no idea. Katie must have lied because he had never hit her. Why would she do that?

"Yes you can. Get Sullivan's help," his father said, breaking into his thoughts.

Keith looked up at the wall in front of him and wiped some of the blood away from his nose. "Yeah." His voice was quiet.

"And you're sure no one talked to her?"

"Who, and what would they have said?"

"That you killed Hockman."

"What?"

"Someone has leaked to a cop in Seattle, the guy's sister, that you had something to do with it. They have a witness, but he won't come forward, and a hair of yours immersed in some documents of Hockman's."

"Yeah, and I have an alibi. How did they get my hair?"

"I don't know."

"It wasn't Katie."

"It better not have been."

Keith lay on the bed, and covered his face with his hand.

His father continued. "Some cops have been investigating the death. They don't believe it was a drug overdose anymore. They want to question her soon. We need to get to her first."

"Give me until tomorrow night."

"D.C."

"We'll be there."

Keith hung up the phone. With Sullivan's help it would be easy. He pressed the fabric of the nightgown against his skin. Tomorrow, she would be in his arms again.

TWELVE

The bell over the door jingled. Katie looked up and clutched the magazine she had been reading, as Keith walked into the bookstore with his hands above his shoulders. Why was he back? Why was she surprised? He wouldn't give up so easily and he looked too much like the past. He wore a Yale sweatshirt and a pair of blue jeans she had bought him, obviously trying to remind her of how things used to be. She shook her head. It wouldn't work.

"I'm not going to touch her," Keith said, his gaze focused on her father who stood holding the gun.

"What do you want?" Mr. Morris asked.

He turned back to her; his shoulders slumped and eyes downcast as if knew he had been defeated. "Katie, I'll make a deal with you. Just talk to me. We'll both be calm. But I need to know what's wrong. Do that, and I'll go back to New York. I promise."

"What do you have to say?" she said, squeezing the magazine tighter.

"Can we talk alone?"

Katie looked at her father who shook his head. Keith stepped closer to the counter but then stopped when Mr. Morris pointed the gun straight at him. His face seemed so downcast, no confidence in his eyes. Where was the anger? Did he realize he had lost her?

"Katie, look we'll talk in plain view of everybody, but I want us to talk freely."

Katie looked back at Keith, and lost her breath. His blue eyes were filled with a look of longing. He was so beautiful, so masterfully made. If only.... She shook her head. Don't go there. "We'll talk at the Commons," she whispered.

"Katie?" her father said.

A lightness burned in Keith's eyes. She looked away, as a warmness spread through her. "We'll talk at the fountain. Daddy you can sit on the bench."

Keith sat on the edge of the fountain with his hands buried deep into his hair, when Katie and her father approached. He looked so dejected, so alone, just like when she first saw him at the beach. Her heart cried out to him. Katie turned to look at her father; tears brimmed in her eyes. He placed his hands on her shoulders and squeezed them. "Be strong, baby, and don't give in."

Katie nodded and walked to Keith. He didn't look up until she was right in front of him.

"Hey," he said as she sat by him.

"Hi."

"You look nice."

Katie concentrated on her father whose gaze wouldn't leave them. "Keith, I...." She paused and closed her eyes as tears swelled in them.

"We can make it work." He placed his hand on hers. She felt a shock at the gentle touch. Be strong. It will only get worse if you stay with him. She slid her hand from his fingers.

"I love you, and I know I've made mistakes, and I..."

Her eyes popped open. The tenderness left her. "I don't believe you anymore."

He shook his head. "I...."

"It was all lies!"

"No... It... I." Keith raised his hands to his chest. "Katie."

"From the beginning. Everything you told me."

The longing disappeared from his eyes, and the same glare of his father replaced it. "What was?"

She looked back at her father.

"Katie, I don't want to fight." He tried to make his voice sound calm, but there was a sharpness in it.

She jumped to her feet and peered down at him. "I do. You know why because I can now say what I've been thinking."

"And what is that?" He bent his head to the side. His right top lip curling in a snarl.

"You know why I didn't tell you about the baby? Because I didn't want to have your child. I hated it from the moment I found out."

Keith clenched the top of the fountain. "Anything else?"

She bent towards his face. "You made me hate you."

He jumped to his feet, and glared down into her eyes. "Then I can make you love me again."

She shook her head. "Go back to New York." She turned around and walked away.

"Katie," he shouted, but she went back to her father who wrapped an arm around her and led her away.

Keith watched her until she disappeared from his view. He then walked to his car, got in it, and adjusted the mirror, so he could see Sullivan in the back seat. "Is it all planned out?" he asked.

Sullivan nodded.

"Good." Keith turned on the car and drove off back to the hotel. By the end of tonight, she'd be his again.

Katie laid her head on Keith's bare chest and caressed the soft skin of his rippling abs. They had just made love, a new promise, a new life together and perhaps a new life would form in her womb. He smiled and said that God had changed him \- he was a new creature, complete in Him. She scratched her face as something tickled her. Keith's lips ran along her neck, sending tingles through her. Every part of her filled with the intense pleasure only he could produce in her. Something pressed against her skin, making her eyes pop opened.

She quickly sat up. At her side sat Keith with her father's shotgun on his lap. His face void of all emotion except for the darkness in his eyes.

"Daddy," she screamed out.

"Don't wake him."

She looked at her sister who hadn't even moved. She turned back to him. "What have you done?"

"They're just sleeping."

"You drugged them."

Keith smirked.

A rattling feeling spread through her as he stood and placed the shotgun next to her father. He then placed a note on the nightstand before holding out a hand for her. "Let's go."

Katie shook her head and squeezed the sheets on the bed, leaning back. Keith grabbed her arms, yanking her off the bed, making her feet crash on the hard floor. Holding one hand, he dragged her to the bedroom door, her feet stumbling after him. She couldn't let him take her out of the house. She had to fight.

Katie tugged on her arm while trying to anchor her feet on the floor. "Let go of me," she screamed. But her feet slid forward, her socks providing no traction. As they passed the dresser, Katie snatched off a book, raising it to his head.

Keith spun around and smacked her to the floor – her body slamming hard on the cold wood. Katie screamed, shielding her cheek with her hand as a sharp sting covered her face – pain searing through her as every part of her went numb and the world around her darkened.

"Want to keep fighting me?" he demanded, balling his hands into fists. "Huh?"

Keith swept her in his arms and carried her out to his car, placing her in the front seat. He slammed the door.

Katie curled into a ball and buried her face in her knees -- her face burned, and she could feel each imprint of his fingers. He had crossed that line.

Keith slipped into the seat next to her and pulled her left hand from her face, pushing her rings on her finger. He then threw her hand back towards her. "Don't ever take them off again."

"You hit me," she whispered.

"Shut up!" He clenched the steering wheel.

"They'll know I'm gone and...."

"That's why you left them a note."

"They know my handwriting," she screamed as her body began shaking.

"So do other people."

She grabbed the door handle and pulled at it but it wouldn't open.

"I love this car," he said.

Tears poured down her face. "You're kidnapping me."

"Just taking back what's mine."

Katie curled into a ball again and looked out the window as the neighborhood blurred past her. She closed her eyes and recited some childhood prayers to herself, but the shaking wouldn't stop.

After a while, Keith opened his cell phone, and told his father that he had her, and they were on their way to D.C.. They talked for a couple more minutes, and then he hung up the phone.

Keith rested his head on his hand against the window. There was no peace in his eyes, just the harsh anger she had come to recognize.

She turned back to the window. The road disappeared in front of her as she caressed her cheek. They didn't speak at all during the five-hour drive to D.C.. When they arrived, he pulled up to the back of the White House. She looked up at the building she had frequently been in since her marriage, but now the whiteness of it held a daunting touch. He parked in the garage, and got out of the car. She focused on the dashboard as he opened the door, and held out his hand for her.

"Come on, Katie," he said, making her flinch.

Katie took his hand and stepped out of the car. Her feet chilled on the pavement. She wrapped her free arm around herself. She was still in her pajamas, a pair of white shorts, and a t-shirt and the air chilled her to the bone. She shook her head. Keith swept her up into his arms and carried her to a door.

A man in a black suit opened the door. Keith walked in and dropped her feet first on the floor; grabbing her hand, he led her to an office. He opened the door, revealing his father looking out a window, and Arther sitting on his desk, grasping a few manila folders.

"She doesn't know anything. I asked her," Keith said.

Why did he say that?

Mr. Wilkerson turned and walked over to Katie, holding his hand out to her. Katie took a step back and turned for the door, but Keith grabbed her and spun her around so she faced his father. Every inch of her trembled. Something was going on. There had to be more than her just leaving.

Mr. Wilkerson reached for her arm and tugged her close to him, making her ram into his chest. He didn't appear to notice the tears that fell as he placed two hands firmly on her cheeks, and raised her eyes to his.

"Look at my eyes," he said.

Katie concentrated on the glare.

"Who is Josh Hockman?"

That name sounded familiar, but she couldn't place it. Who could he have been?

"Katie?"

"Sir, I don't remember."

"You don't," he said in a soft voice.

"No."

He squeezed her head. Pain filled her. She gripped his hands as the hair on the back of her neck tingled.

"Did anybody ask you for anything of Keith's, such as a hair."

"No, sir."

Mr. Wilkerson studied her eyes before he dropped his hands from Katie's face and sat back in his chair, folding his hands in his lap. "She's not lying. I don't know who did it now. Everybody close to him didn't give it."

"I told you." Keith wrapped his arms around Katie's waist and pulled her close to him.

"What is going on?" she whispered.

"Tomorrow, we'll go to Seattle, and we'll let them talk to her and Keith."

"About what?" Katie asked.

Mr. Wilkerson sliced a hand through the air. "You know nothing, that's all you need to say."

"And if they ask why she took off?" Keith asked.

"Katie will say, that's personal and has nothing to do with Hockman." He paused and glared at her. "Do you understand me?" Mr. Wilkerson shouted.

Katie jumped back against Keith.

"Take her away." He waved them off.

Keith dragged Katie out the door and into a bedroom with one king size bed draped in white silk sheets. Katie rubbed her shoulders as a shiver filled her. Tonight she'd be laid out on that altar for his lustful greed. He opened a suitcase, and picked up her white nightgown, handing it to her. And here was her sacrificial gown. Tears brimmed in her eyes. How could he expect her to slip back into the role he had designed for her?

"Please, Katie." His eyes were soft - the Jekyll replacing the Hyde.

Katie took it from his hands, and slipped out of what she was wearing and put it on. Keith removed the suitcase from the bed, and held out his hand for her. She walked closer to him, and he pulled her down on top of him as he lay on the bed - the touch of his solid body under hers sent prickles through her. Keith caressed her back with his fingertips, ruffling the gown, and his other hand immersed itself in her hair.

"Go to sleep, my love, you are safe," he whispered.

Katie closed her eyes, but her pulse poured through her. He had won. Never would she be free.

THIRTEEN

The Wilkersons flew on a private jet to Seattle, and Katie found herself, staying in the same hotel room from before. Keith was next door with his father, and she was locked in. She lay on the bed. If she just had a phone, so she could call her parents, just to see how they were. She had pleaded but Keith wouldn't let her.

She sat up when Keith walked in and took off his coat and tie, dropping them on the floor. Katie brought her knees to her chest as he sat on the bed and lay down so his head rested at her feet. His eyes fixed on the ceiling, and didn't move even when she crawled over to him. Why did his deep blue eyes flicker with anger?

"Would you please tell me what is going on?" she asked.

He lowered his eyes so they looked into hers. Keith placed a hand behind her head and brought her lips to his. He kissed her and then let go of her head and sat up.

"You would have let me go, if this Hockman thing wasn't happening," she said.

"I still would have come for you."

Katie folded her hands in her lap; she had hoped he would have said yes. A yes would have given her some hope for his soul - but now she realized his was just as black as the man who sired him. She never had a chance to help him change. Katie wiped a tear from her eye and looked at the ceiling. There was only one hope for her, although He probably wouldn't listen. She had long tossed away any right to seek His help. Please, change him. Please. If God only would then she might have a chance, but Keith seemed far too gone for the Lord to be able to save him. No, not even God could change a man like him.

"Can I please call my parents? I promise I'll tell them I came back."

"They're here."

"They are?" Katie gripped her hands together as a chill raced through her. Her family had walked into the lion's den.

"Apparently, the cops wanted to talk to them."

"Please, Keith, they don't know anything."

He shook his head.

Katie's eyes filled with tears. Would she ever see them again? Her family was the most important part of her life on earth.

"What did you tell them about me?" His fingers dug deep into the sheets.

"Tell me what's going on."

Keith spun around and threw her on the bed, pinning her as he glared into her eyes. "Did you tell them I hit you?"

"No." She shook her head, her curls half covering her eyes.

"What did you tell them?"

"Nothing."

"What did Shelly say?"

Katie swallowed hard. Shelly probably had told them the truth - outlining how he had locked them in a room, while he threw things at the door.

In a quieter and lower tone, he said, "I know what she said." He sat up. "I read her testimony to the cops."

"Keith, she didn't...."

"I don't want to hear it!"

Katie flinched and curled her legs to her chest. "Keith!"

"You betrayed me and now I have to answer for it!"

"I was scared."

"Of what?"

She bit her bottom lip. She was afraid of what he would become.

"Tomorrow, you will tell them that Shelly is lying, and that I have never hit you, locked you in a room or anything else. You will tell them that you left because you were upset about the baby."

Katie nodded. "Please tell me about Hockman."

"He was a reporter."

Katie's eyes opened wide. "The one...." She didn't finish the sentence as she remembered the story. "You guys killed him."

Keith jerked her close to his body - a deep glare in his eyes. "You'll never say that again. Now, you listen to me. The only thing that stands between my father and you, is my love. If you ever leave me again, or do anything that hurts my family, I will remove my protection and you won't last the night."

Katie gripped his shoulders as she crumbled, tears pouring down her face.

His eyes softened. "I'm sorry I had to scare you, but you have no idea what's going on, and I don't want you to get hurt. Do you understand?" He lifted her face.

She nodded.

"You're not going to leave me, are you?"

"No." Her voice cracked as a tear ran over her lips.

"Be a good wife and everything will be fine." He caressed her chin, sending prickles of fear through her. "And remember." His right lip lifted in a smirk. "Men like my father and I don't get caught."

Everything about her appearance was in order. Not one wrinkle could be found on her floral satin dress, not one curl out of place, and she couldn't see one trace of the dark bruise under the light-tone foundation.

An older male cop brought her to a small, completely gray room with a mirror at the end. A long, brown desk with a few neatly piled folders was the only item in the room. She sat in a chair and two female cops sat across from her.

Why hadn't Mr. Wilkerson sent a lawyer with her? Didn't he want to make sure she didn't misspeak? Or was he testing her?

The two female cops smiled, and looked up when a tall, slender woman with long brown hair walked into the room and sat next to her.

"Mrs. Wilkerson," the older cop said as she pointed to the woman. "This is Ms. Elizabeth Canady from the My Sister's House."

Katie's eyes opened wide. So that was their tactic. The young woman's light brown eyes looked sincere, making her want to tell her everything. But Katie knew her husband too well.

"It's a domestic violence center," the cop said.

"Mrs. Wilkerson," said Ms. Canady. "We can keep him away from you."

Katie swallowed hard, squeezing her fingers together. Did she really have to defend him - this monster that emerged more and more every day? But if she didn't he'd allow his father to release his wrath on her. The thought alone sent prickles of fear through her. "My husband has never hit me," she said.

"Did he force you to return with him?" she asked.

Tears rose in her, as images of being slammed on the floor, rug burns spreading across her legs filled her mind. Did he even see those marks when he made love to her this morning? He had showed no reaction as his hands swept over her skin. "No, I wanted to return with him."

"Why do you seem scared?" Ms. Canady said.

Because he'd kill her. "I don't know why you want to talk to me."

The room went silent although everything screamed at her. The truth burned behind her lips. She sucked her bottom lip into her mouth. One misspoken word and she'd find herself at the bottom of a canal.

"We think you have information that can provide insight into Josh Hockman's death."

"I don't know anything about him."

"You don't or are you scared to talk?" asked the older cop. She pushed a strand of brownish gray hair behind her ear. Her hazel eyes took on a lightness just like her mother's eyes always did. She must have children. "Mrs. Wilkerson, we can hide you away. We have helped many women married to wealthy and powerful men."

Katie shook her head. No, they couldn't. If they tried they'd find themselves with her at the bottom of the canal.

"Would you like to see the center?" Ms. Canady asked. "Or learn what we could do for you?"

A shiver piled through her, making it feel as though her bones shook her in her body. "My sister lied. They don't like him."

The older cop picked up her pen and dropped it several times in a smooth rhythm.

The younger cop opened a notebook and looked down at the pages. Her brown hair was cropped short and spiked up a little. The only feminine part of her was her diamond earrings. "May we ask you some questions?" she asked.

The shaking grew more intense. She looked down at her hand as it rattled on the table. She needed to get out of here or her body might explode. It felt as though her soul was trying to escape her deceitful body. Katie jumped to her feet. "No, I want a lawyer."

"Mrs. Wilkerson, please, sit down," the younger cop said.

"Once I ask for a lawyer, you can't continue to question me." She turned for the door. The younger cop stood and unlocked the door. She led her to where Mr. Wilkerson waited.

Katie thanked the younger cop before she walked into Mr. Wilkerson's outstretched arm. He curled her into a possessive embrace that reminded her too much of Keith. "Please, don't let them talk to me alone."

He led her outside to his car. While they waited in the car for Keith, she told him about the conversation, and he said she did well. It took two hours for Keith to emerge from the police station. He had a smirk on his face as he got into the back seat of the car.

"They have nothing," he said.

Mr. Wilkerson turned the car on and drove it out of the parking lot.

"They'll want to talk to her again," Mr. Wilkerson said.

Katie looked in the rear view mirror at Keith nodding. "They'll probably subpoena her."

"I don't know anything," she said.

"It doesn't matter, Katie, they think you do, and you've given them enough reason to suspect they're right," Mr. Wilkerson said.

"How?"

Mr. Wilkerson stopped the car at a store parking lot, and turned in his seat; his eyes full of the glare. She sat back — keeping her eyes focused on him.

"Your husband is being framed. Someone was going to leak information to you, thinking you would get scared and want to talk, since their apparent real witness won't."

"If he exists," Keith said.

"You took off right around the time the info was to be delivered," Mr. Wilkerson continued. "So the cops think you know something."

"But I don't."

"We know." Mr. Wilkerson reached under her hair and grasped her neck, squeezing. Her eyes popped wide open.

"This is my son's life Katie, you better not betray us and lie," he said through clenched teeth.

"I won't. I promise."

"Good." Mr. Wilkerson caressed Katie's cheek with his thumb, leaving a trail of Goosebumps. "Remember, Katie, everything you love, we hold in our hands."

Katie nodded and pushed the images of what could happen from her mind.

The next day the two female cops showed up at their hotel room and asked if she had a lawyer yet, or would she like them to help her find one. Keith, his father and a small legal team were next door, so she went there and knocked on the door.

Keith opened it and led her inside, closing the door on the two female cops without a word to them.

She took his hands and brought them to her chest. "Do I have to talk to them?"

"It would look bad if you didn't."

Katie looked around Keith at Mr. Wilkerson who sat at a table with two older lawyers next to him. "Don't send me alone."

"Mr. Douglas will go with you," Mr. Wilkerson said as he patted one of the lawyers on the back. Mr. Douglas stood, his height reaching just past Keith's head. With his gray hair, and blank face, the man looked like a formidable opponent. She shuddered as he walked over to her, taking her elbow.

"We'll be back soon," he said, leading her out the door.

When they got to the police station, he took her aside, and instructed her on what to say. Katie focused on the floor, repeating his lines. She would perform well even if she had to lie through her teeth.

They were brought to the same room as yesterday. Ms. Canady was there, holding a few pamphlets – her eyes light. Katie whispered in Mr. Douglas's ear. "They really think he hits me."

The man nodded. "We only want to talk to law officers."

"We want her to talk to Mrs. Canady," the younger cop said.

"I will advise my client not to speak in front of non-law enforcement officials."

The younger cop glared at Mr. Douglas, as the older one led Ms. Canady out of the room.

The younger cop opened her notebook and motioned for them to sit down. Katie took a seat and folded her fingers together. Her index finger rubbed the three diamonds of her engagement ring - to remind herself just who she belonged to.

"Do you know who Josh Hockman was?" the younger cop asked, looking up with a blank look on her face - but deep lines formed between her brows.

"He was a reporter covering my husband's case," Katie said.

"Have you heard your husband ever speak of him?"

"No." Katie snapped back.

"Never?" The younger cop raised her right eyebrow - highlighting the trim cut of her hair.

Katie shook her head and the younger cop wrote something down.

"Mrs. Wilkerson has anybody outside of your family spoken to you about Josh Hockman?"

Katie took a deep breath. At least these questions she could answer truthfully. "No."

"Have you been given any documents about him?"

"No."

"You weren't?" The younger cop shouted, slamming her pencil down.

"My client will not respond to badgering," Mr. Douglas said.

The younger cop shook her head and took a deep breath as tears built in her eyes. She must be the reporter's sister. Something tugged at Katie's heart. If she could only....

"Mrs. Wilkerson, do you know that the night before he died, Josh Hockman called an officer, and said he had information on your husband's family? Scandalous information."

"My husband is innocent," she whispered.

"Why did you leave your husband?" Her voice choked.

Images of Keith's raised hand filled her vision - that hand had finally swung through the air and bruised her. Someday he'd beat her. "My husband and I lost a baby. I was upset about it."

"Then why did you tell your father he is cruel to you?"

Katie's mouth flew open. She should have warned them not to speak the truth to anyone, but she had never known what perils waited around the corner. Please Lord, let the Wilkersons leave them alone.

"Mrs. Wilkerson?"

Katie shook her head. "I didn't. He's lying."

"Why would he do that?"

"I don't know." She took a deep breath trying to keep the tears in, but one raced down her cheek. All she could see was her father's bloody body spread out across the den - a gash wound across his neck.

"Will you take a polygraph test?"

"No," she whispered - her voice choking up.

"She will," Mr. Douglas said in a calm voice. "But not right now. Let her calm down first. Do you have any more questions?" he asked the cops.

The younger cop ran a hand through her short cropped hair. "Mrs. Wilkerson, your father and husband had a good relationship until recently. What made him stop liking Mr. Wilkerson?"

Katie dug her fingernails into her palm, conjuring up anger in her - she needed to stop this before she let something slip out that would seal her family's fate. "I don't know. But look," Katie said. "I love my husband, and I'm getting sick of how you're trying to turn me against him."

Mr. Douglas nodded with a slight smile on his face.

The younger cop leaned her forehead against her hand.

"I think we're done, Mrs. Wilkerson," said the older cop.

Katie stood and slammed the chair against the table. She then left with Mr. Douglas behind her.

Mr. Douglas took her back to the hotel. Katie went right to the hotel room that Keith was in. She knocked on the door, and waited until Keith opened it, allowing her to walk past him. "I need to talk to you."

Keith nodded.

"How did she do?" Mr. Wilkerson asked.

Mr. Douglas explained what had happened. Mr. Wilkerson smirked when he mentioned how angry she'd gotten.

"She'll be taking the test tomorrow," Mr. Douglas said.

Mr. Wilkerson leaned back in his chair. "Keith, Katie, stay, everyone else out," he said.

The other lawyers left. Mr. Wilkerson scooted out his chair while motioning for her. She walked over to him and grabbed the sides of her dress as he patted his knee. She sat on his lap, and turned so he could look in her eyes.

"She can't pass on her own," Keith said.

"It's time to make up for your mistakes," Mr. Wilkerson said.

Katie folded her hands in her lap, and squeezed them. He opened his phone and pressed a button.

"Hey Will, I need Katie to pass a lie detector test. Have an agent bring me something." The phone clicked shut making her flinch. Mr. Wilkerson rolled it in his hands.

"Are you pregnant?"

"No." She looked at Keith and noticed the blanchness to his face.

"You're not lying?"

Katie turned back to Mr. Wilkerson and leaned over, so she was staring straight into his eyes. "No, Mr. Wilkerson."

He nodded, a smirk crossing his face - drawing attention to the deep darkness of his eyes. "You're going to let us drug you, so you can pass."

She nodded again.

"Then afterwards, call your slutty sister, and say you never want to see her again."

"No." She reached for Mr. Wilkerson's arm. "I'll...."

"Where is your loyalty? Huh?"

Tears poured down Katie's face. "What about my parents?"

"No," he shouted. "And, I don't care what my son does to you, say something again and I'll...." He shook his head. "You'll find out what cruelty is. Now go to my son." He pushed her off of him, stood and turned around. Katie fell on all fours, her knees banging onto the floor. Keith pulled her to her feet and wrapped her in his arms, leading her outside.

When they slipped into their room, Keith wrapped her in his arms, pushing her head against his chest. "You need to listen," he whispered. "Or I can't do anything to protect you."

She looked up at his light eyes. "Do you love me more than him?"

"My loyalty is to him."

"But...."

"My loyalty is to him."

Katie clenched onto Keith's shirt and let the tears pour forth. Would she ever be able to talk to her family again? She looked up at Keith. His baby blue eyes no longer seemed mesmerizing. One poorly made decision had led to this life. Only if she had listened to God's word and never chosen to date him. He kissed her cheek and led her back to their room. If she hadn't she might be with her family now.

The next morning, Keith brought Katie to the room next door. He took the door handle but before he opened the door he turned to her. "We keep family secrets. Remember."

"I know."

"This is for your own good," he said, opening the door and pulling her with him as her small feet stumbled after him. Once inside, Keith wrapped her in his arms, making her focus on the scene in front of her. Mr. Wilkerson stood in the middle of the room with his arms crossed, shaking his head. The dark suit he wore stretched with his movements.

Mr. Ayden, a young lawyer in the firm, knelt in front of him with his hands up. His blond curls matted over his head with sweat. "Look, no one approached me."

"Why does it link to you? A hair? Was that all you could think of?" Mr. Wilkerson bent his head to the side, and smirked. "Not a very intelligent move."

"I...."

Mr. Wilkerson grabbed him by the back of the head and threw him down, planting his foot on his neck.

No one ever knew what he did to her. Ashley's words echoed in her mind. Was she about to find out? Dear Lord. Katie reached for Keith's arms, squeezing, as every part of her trembled. She leaned against his hard body. His chest rose in a smooth rhythm. How could he be calm at a moment like this?

"Who paid you?" Mr. Wilkerson asked.

"A man. I don't know who."

Mr. Wilkerson pushed down upon the man's neck. A gurgling sound rose from him as he pushed on Mr. Wilkerson's foot. She jerked her body to the side but Keith held her firm, keeping her captured in his firm embrace. She didn't want to watch this. Didn't want to see them actually hurt someone. Please God, save him. Please.

"Watch," Keith whispered, his hot breath brushing her cheek, the scent of peppermint filled the space between them. Something rose in her making her swallow hard.

"I don't know," the lawyer screamed.

Mr. Wilkerson removed his foot and gave the man one quick kick into the stomach. The man rolled over in pain, his muted cries filling the room.

Mr. Wilkerson looked at her, a heat burned in his eyes. A chill swept through her as he walked over to her, yanked her from Keith and into his arms. He turned her so she faced the lawyer.

The scent of the cigar he smoked passed over her.

"Watch," Mr. Wilkerson said. "I'm done."

Two of Arther's agents got off the couch. They wrapped the lawyer's head in a plastic bag as he struggled. She couldn't turn her eyes away. One of the agents took out a dagger, held Mr. Ayden's mouth shut and slit his throat. His body shuddered, but it slowed to small jerks and then stopped, lying like he was no more than a mannequin. An agent took out his wallet and slipped off his wedding ring. She knew his wife and young children. But she would never be able to tell them what had happened to him.

Bile rose in her throat; her whole body revolted. Mr. Wilkerson bent to her ear and every part of her stilled. "Don't worry, we don't kill wives. Just their families."

Katie gasped. Please God protect my family. Images of her family being tortured sprang to her mind. She tried to push them away, but they lingered. Was this how he'd beaten his wife into submission? In her mind, she saw her sister's bloody body laid out, her dark curls matted with the dark liquid.

"Let's get this over with," Mr. Wilkerson said.

One of the agents took a needle from a black case and walked to her. Mr. Wilkerson clasped her mouth, his large hand spreading over her face.

The agent injected her arm with a clear liquid. After a couple moments, a calm feeling spread all over her. She closed her eyes. For the first time in a while a peace entered her as her nerves settled. She leaned back against Mr. Wilkerson but he handed her to Keith, who swept her into his arms, and they left for the police station in the back of a limo. Katie studied Keith. He looked so calm, not one emotion flickered across his face. Why didn't he get a shot since he was also going to be taking the test? Keith leaned into her. "Stop smiling."

Katie formed her mouth into a circle.

Katie passed the test without one little blip on the machine. The younger cop had looked at the results then thrown them in the air, rushing from the room. The cop's wide eyes were burned in her mind. If she could just give her that peace. The peace of knowing what had happened. But not at the cost of her sister. Shelly was innocent. She had not made the choices that brought Katie to this moment and Katie wouldn't let her suffer for her sister's sins.

The glass she held in her hand began to shake. She grabbed the wine glass with both hands, and held it still. The drug must be wearing off. Keith laughed and took a long sip of his wine, the fingers of his other hand ran down her arm. All the lawyers around her celebrated, drinking wine, mocking the cops and the Seattle D.A.. Mr. Wilkerson sat in a chair leaning back, chewing on the back of a cigar; the smoke floated to the surface. How could they rejoice? Did none of them feel any remorse for getting away with murder? But Josh Hockman wasn't the first person they had murdered, and the young lawyer wouldn't be the last.

Keith finished his wine and stood, bringing her with him. He set the glass down and guided her out of the room. Must want sex. She bit on her bottom lip. Having sex with him again was the hardest part of this whole charade. At least she no longer had to pretend. He didn't care if she lay stiff as a board with her eyes closed while he roamed over every part of her, his sweet possession.

They walked into the room and Keith motioned for her to sit on the bed. She sat letting her small frame sink into the crème colored comforter. She would just close her eyes and imagine it was Jeff's lips pressing onto her skin.

Keith's hand slipped into his pocket and he pulled out his phone. "Here, Katie."

Katie took it from his hands. He wanted her to call her sister. She had been hoping that with the excitement they would forget. But apparently he hadn't. Glancing up, she studied his steel eyes. What did he care? Did her father ever mean anything to him? But he meant the world to her. If God would just deliver her from this, but He'd stopped caring about her a long time ago, so why should he now? "Can't you tell him I did?"

"Will you be able to lie to my father?"

"No."

"Then you must do it." Keith bent in front of Katie, taking her free hand and squeezing it. "Katie, call them."

A few tears slipped down her face as she raised the phone to her ear.

Keith grabbed her hand and brought it down. "You need to stop crying."

"Give me that drug again. It made me feel so good."

"No," he said, his voice shook. "I'm not letting you get addicted to something."

"Just this one time."

"No!"

The tears poured down her face, as the phone slipped from her fingers. Keith sat next to her and wrapped his arms around her. "Go ahead and get rid of all your tears." He caressed her burning cheek.

The phone began to ring. Keith answered it. "What?" Keith shouted, making Katie flinch. He pulled her closer to him. "I thought this was supposed to be the end." Keith paused, his eyes narrowing. "Who is it?" he asked.

A witness must have come forward. The reporter's sister still had a chance. She closed her eyes tight. Please God, give her the peace she needed. Let her brother find justice.

"How can we not know?" Silence filled the room. "Just let me know." He hung up the phone.

"Is this all my fault?" she asked.

"No." He lay down on the bed and pulled her with him. Resting her head on his chest, she concentrated on the ceiling. A weight pushed her body down into the bed, pulling her further into the sheets. If she could just disappear into them. Maybe she could for a little bit. She closed her eyes and let herself slip away.

The phone rang. She jerked awake and looked at the clock. They both had been out for two hours. Keith blinked his eyes before answering the phone. He nodded and rose to his feet. Katie clenched his shirt.

"I have to go, my dear." He pried her hands off.

Although her limbs didn't actually tremble, it felt as though every part of her rattled. A deep ache spread through her. "Give me something," she said.

He stared at her, brows narrowed, for a couple seconds before he asked, "would you like to go to sleep?"

Katie nodded. Keith gave her a red pill which she took with a glass of wine. Lying down, she let every limb one by one shut down, but the unsettled feeling stayed.

Sleep tight, Katie. Her eyes closed, shielding the fog in them. Her tears had washed some of the foundation away, revealing streaks of blue. His stomach twisted. He had caused that mark. Broke one more promise to her. No more promises remained. Keith shook his head. He wouldn't think of that now. He had other matters to attend to.

Keith walked out of the hotel room and closed the door. Sullivan walked towards him, holding a brown folder.

"What is this?" he asked.

Sullivan didn't answer. Keith took the folder, and opened it. He read the contents of the one document. He threw open the door to the room next door, slamming it behind him. His father, Arther and Marriotti looked at him. "Ashley got her a fake I.D.."

"What are you talking about?" Marriotti asked.

"Ashley helped Katie leave."

Marriotti's face ashen, his mouth hung open. He looked at Mr. Wilkerson who just shook his head.

"She'd better stay away from my wife," Keith said.

"I will talk to her," Marriotti said.

Mr. Wilkerson tapped his pen on his leg. "She'd better stay away from my daughter."

Marriotti held up a hand. "Look, I had nothing to do with this!"

Arther placed his hands on his head. "Let's not fight over silly girls. We have to worry about damage control. Marriotti."

"I told you. I know it was Sen. McCalvin."

Arther crossed his arms over his chest. "Is that it? Was he the only one?" he asked.

"What does your agent say?" Marriotti asked.

"That the whole liberal party is trying to bring us down!" Arther threw his hands in the air. "How did this get out of hand?"

"It's him. He paid a hitman to talk. He tried to get Sen. Banks on his side, that's how I heard," Marriotti said.

"So the witness is a hitman, this won't be hard," Mr. Wilkerson said, leaning back in his chair, chuckling.

"He's going to testify that Keith paid him money to take care of Hockman," Marriotti said.

Mr. Wilkerson let out a deep laugh. Amusement in his harsh eyes.

"How is Katie?" Arther asked as he leaned back in the chair. A drop of sweat dripped down his face.

"Drugged." She was already dead. Not one part of the girl he loved remained and there was no way he could bring her back to life. He'd just have to love the little bit of her he had left.

"Well, let her stay that way. She'll be happier," Arther said, breaking into his thoughts.

Heat coursed through him. How dare he. Keith made a run at Arther, but Mr. Wilkerson jumped to his feet and grabbed his shoulders. Keith glared down at the smirk on his father's face as he patted him on the chest.

"We're falling apart." Arther tossed a paper over his shoulder. "My own son wants to take a swing at me."

Keith turned around and sat down, glaring at Marriotti. He balled his hands into fists and pushed his feet into the floor. How could that slut betray him - they had been friends his whole life - but what could he expect from someone with a deep hatred of men?

"She's my daughter, not me," Marriotti said to Keith.

"I don't want to hear anything about girls," Arther said. "Women do stupid things. Now let's figure out what we're going to do."

"Should learn to control her," Marriotti said under his breath. Keith sprang to his feet, and pounded Marriotti on the chin, sending him flying from his chair. He crashed onto the floor.

"Shouldn't have raised a slut," Keith said. He stood over Marriotti with his arms raised, fists balled, ready to take another swing.

Mr. Wilkerson busted out laughing. Arther planted his hands on the table again, shaking his head.

Marriotti stood and straightened his coat. "I think I'm finally seeing Matt in him."

He then sat down and took a handkerchief from his coat pocket, wiping the blood from his lips.

"Keith, sit down, let's get to work," Mr. Wilkerson said.

Keith opened the door to their hotel room and focused on the bed. She was not asleep on it like she should be. Where could she be? "Katie," he shouted and turned around, glancing around the room. "Katie."

She couldn't have gotten out. Could she? He picked up his phone, dialed her number and listened to it ring.

"I'm in the bathroom, silly," a quiet voice answered.

He dropped the phone and ran into the bathroom. Katie lay in a hot tub, covered in white bubbles. In her hand she held a glass of white wine. He smiled when their eyes connected, but the smile disappeared when he saw the new half empty bottle of wine.

"Be careful, with that stuff." He sat on the edge of the tub.

"It makes me feel calm."

Keith reached for her hand and took the wine glass out of it. He finished the wine and set it on the floor. "What happened to prayer being your opium?"

She looked to the side – her eyes drooped downward. Her sleep must not have been peaceful. Keith stood, unbuttoned his shirt and took off his clothes. He got into the hot tub and caressed her feet.

"How can I make you happy?" Keith brought her toes to his lips and kissed the pinky toe.

"Can I have another glass of wine?"

"No."

There was a redness at the edges of her eyes. "What are you going to do?" she asked.

"Tell me, and I'll do it."

"No, about the case."

"Don't worry about it."

Katie placed a hand on her head, white bubbles trickled down, mixing with the chestnut curl that lay on her cheek. "How can I not, when my whole life is connected to it?"

"I'm your life, Katie. Worry about me."

"Exactly." She sat up and stared straight into his eyes. "You have never talked to me about your job, or your life beyond us. I've always had to learn things about you from other people. I don't even know who you are."

"I'm that boy you fell in love with at Yale."

"No, you were never that boy," she said, leaning back down.

He took a deep breath. Her statement felt like a punch in the stomach but it was true. He didn't even recognize himself anymore. "We're going to get through this, Katie. I promise you."

Katie rested her forehead on her hand and nodded. Keith brought her toes to his lips and kissed the pinky toe again. If he could just bring a smile to her face, but he would never see it again. From now on, all her smiles would be fake; just like his mother's. He had made her into a shell.

FOURTEEN

The next day, Keith and Katie received a subpoena to appear before a grand jury in a couple weeks. Her subpoena stated she was to bring any documents she might have about her husband pertaining to the case. What could that mean? She dropped the document on the floor, turning away from it. What documents could be so important? She sat down in front of a mirror and pulled down the baggy skin under her eyes. Keith said, she still looked pretty but she didn't see it.

She took a deep breath. Tomorrow, she would start practicing for the trial. Mr. Wilkerson was going to make sure not one of her words strayed from his designed path. She knew she didn't have to testify, but they wanted to lay her out before the grand jury like a lamb for the slaughter. No, not a lamb. A hopeless soiled dove.

Katie put on a nice brown sundress, and tied her hair in a bun. She studied her reflection in the mirror. She looked like the perfect wife of an important man, pretty and diminutive. Pearls accented her neck and wrists, matching the ones in her ears. Finally, she had been molded into the part. Every personal thought she had ever had, had been drained from her. Now, all that remained were ones reserved for the china doll she needed to be.

Someone knocked on the door. It was time to leave. Katie wrapped her arms around her waist. "I have to do this for my family," she whispered.

A mass of reporters filled the steps leading to the courthouse, waiting for them. Their microphones and pens were already poised for questions. This was bigger than she'd realized. Katie raised her hand, focusing on her trembling fingers.

Keith whispered, "walk quickly." He then grabbed her hand, and led her out of the limo. Two lawyers walked in front and Mr. Wilkerson walked on the other side of Katie, with a firm hand on her back. Reporters yelled out her name and questions, but she kept her eyes focused on the concrete steps, and the firm grip of her husband's hand. The noise grew faint as she walked into the courthouse and was guided to the courtroom.

"Katie!" she heard.

Katie turned in the direction of her sister's voice, squeezing Keith's hand as she followed him to a bench. Shelly, stood with her parents. Tears streamed down their faces as they clasped each other's hands.

"Shelly," she whispered. If she could just embrace her family one more time, to feel like a little girl again in her father's strong arms. But that would never happen again on this side of eternity. She shook her head. Maybe she could purge them from her mind. That would be the only way she could make it through her life.

She looked at Keith. His face seemed so calm – confidence filled his eyes. "Keith," she whispered, but he would not look at her. Mr. Wilkerson squeezed the back of her dress and motioned for her to sit behind a table and a railing. Mr. Wilkerson sat next to her, and Keith sat up front with the lawyers.

Katie turned around and looked at her family, until Mr. Wilkerson took her hand and squeezed it. She looked at the D.A. who banged his pencil against the desk. He was a young man, much like Keith, but he was thin with wispy brown hair. The female cops sat behind him. Mr. Wilkerson leaned over and tapped his son on the back. Keith turned to him.

"Where's the star witness?" he asked with a smirk on his face.

Katie tugged on Mr. Wilkerson's coat. He looked at her. "Where is he?"

Mr. Wilkerson smiled, his eyes growing dark.

Katie stiffened. They had killed him. Tears brimmed in her eyes. Someone else had died at their hands. It would never end. Katie scrunched up her mouth, taking in a deep breath. Did the man next to her even have a shred of humanity in him?

The bailiff announced the arrival of the judge and everyone stood.

The judge took his seat and shuffled his papers. His thick gray brows contrasted with his smooth skin. He motioned for everyone to sit down.

"Mr. Hutchins, are you ready?" he said to the D.A.

The D.A. stood and took a deep breath. "Your honor, I ask that we postpone the hearing until I can gather some more evidence."

"Why?" the judge said, tilting his head, a smirk crossing his face. "You said you were ready yesterday. Where's Mr. Owens, your witness?"

The man squeezed his pen. "He has apparently recanted his testimony."

Mr. Wilkerson got a smirk on his face, nodding.

"Recanted his testimony," the Judge said. "Do you have a case or not?"

"Your Honor," Mr. Douglas said as he stood. "I ask that you dismiss this case. The DA has no witnesses."

"Mr. Hutchins?" the judge said.

The D.A. took a deep breath again, his shoulders slumping, "Your Honor, the people of Washington withdraw the case."

"What?" the younger cop yelled out.

Keith banged his fist on the table. He turned to Mr. Douglas and whispered, "Yeah."

"Order," the judge demanded as he slammed his gavel.

The courtroom stilled. Katie looked at her family huddling together – faces pale. They probably had hoped that Keith's conviction would have freed her. Nothing could free her. Nothing but death.

"Case dismissed," the judge proclaimed. Keith stood and shouted "Yeah." He turned around and hugged Katie over the railing. "See, I told you it would work out." He kissed her on the lips.

Katie forced a smile on her face. "I'm glad." Tears built in her eyes.

Mr. Wilkerson placed a hand on Keith's shoulder. "We'll meet you at the hotel," he said.

Keith took Katie's hand and led her out of the courtroom as Mr. Wilkerson talked to the D.A.

The firm grip of his hand on her back, pressed through her as he led her away towards a back exit. The door to the courtroom pushed open.

"Katie!" Katie stopped and turned around to see Shelly running after her – her eyes red from many tears.

Keith continued to drag her down the hall.

"Katie, don't let him tear us apart," Shelly shouted.

Keith stopped walking and turned to look at Shelly. His eyes filled with the dark glare. She squeezed the hand that he had gripped in a fist. Please God protect her. Please.

"You'll never talk to her again," he said through clenched teeth.

"I'm not going to allow this," Shelly declared.

"Shelly don't, please," she whispered. "You have no idea what...."

Keith jerked her back around, and dragged her out. Her sister's ashen face was imprinted in her mind.

Once in the limo, she leaned her head against the leather seat. A pain seared through her heart. Please Lord take me home soon. I can't live like this. She couldn't live another day without her family. She inhaled deeply, trying to dry all the tears. She would not cry. Not anymore.

She focused on the red carpet with gold crowns as they made their way into the hotel room. How was she going to survive? To make it one more day? Maybe if she had not seen her family with the pale look of death on their faces. Then she could have made it, but that image was burned into her mind. And her sister's....

"What are you doing here?" Keith demanded.

Katie looked up and gasped. Standing in front of her was the man in her dreams. The same stoic face, tall slender form. Eyes with no life. He was real.

"Checking for bugs," the man said, running a device over the TV.

Katie squeezed her husband's hand as her body began to shake. If he was real, then did Keith really inject something into her? Katie pressed down on her head. But how could she not remember?

The man finished with the TV and placed the device in his pocket. He nodded before walking out of the room. She couldn't take her eyes off the door as Keith led her to the bedroom.

"What a day." He turned to look at her, but the smile fled from his face. "What's wrong?"

"I've seen that man in my dreams," she said, pointing to the door.

Keith's mouth fell open.

"He was holding me down while you injected me with something. I always thought it was a dream, but now I wonder." She shook her head. "It wasn't a dream, was it?"

Keith closed his eyes. "Katie, I...."

"Tell me the truth!"

He opened his eyes. "Something happen that you couldn't remember."

"What?" she whispered.

Keith knelt in front of Katie, and took her hands as a tear ran down his cheek. "If I had known you were pregnant, I wouldn't have let it happened even if you couldn't remember."

The baby. All sense of feelings fled from her - her knees buckled - her hand flew to Keith's shoulder to steady herself. What had he just admitted? Images floated through her mind: him apologizing, saying it was his fault as tears rushed down his face. What had they done to her? Keith pulled her into his lap and embraced her. His hot tears poured onto her face - meshing with her own.

"I won't let you be hurt again," he cried into her ear. "I promise."

Katie caressed her wrist. "I have to go to the bathroom."

Katie wrenched herself from Keith's embrace and headed towards the bathroom.

Keith studied the gold crowns on the carpet. She knew. Every last detail he had tried to keep from her. He had failed. He needed to let her go before things got worse, but he couldn't. Couldn't live without her. He closed his eyes. What should he do?

The door closed as he buried his face into his hands. Something tugged at him, calling to him. That same deep pull clenching in him. He had no idea what it was. But he knew who called him. Didn't this God realize that he couldn't fight his father? Live a pure life. A life like Katie's. No, he was a spawn of Satan with an angel trapped in his grip. An angel with no life left in her.

Maybe he could find some way to let her go before he hurt her again. If you care please help me let her go.

Something hard thumped on the floor. Keith sprang to his feet. He rushed to the bathroom door, pulling at the knob, but it wouldn't budge.

"Katie," he screamed. No one answered. He spun around, and grabbed a chair and pounded on the door until he had smashed a hole through it. He reached in, slicing his skin on the shattered wood and unlocked it, pushing it opened.

He stopped cold. Katie lay motionless in a puddle of blood.

"Katie!" He rushed to her, pulling her onto his lap. He focused on her half-open eyes and reached for his phone, but it slipped from his grasp. She was going to die. He had killed her. A white color spread across her cheeks.

Keith pressed the circle of his iPhone, and turned for his bag, spilling the contents on the floor and grasping the rubber, he used so often on his arm.

A beep filled the room. "911, Siri," he shouted.

Looping the rubber around her bloody wrist, he yanked it closed, but blood still seeped out, like a trickling fountain. What had he done to her? To lead her to this?

He cradled her face as an operator answered in the background.

"Help," he mumbled, as the light left her eyes, and they rolled back into her head.

A sob rose in him, but he swallowed it back as his fingers trailed her other arm and reached to the vein. A light thump pushed against his fingers, but it slowed with each beat. Her life was seeping from her, just like the blood from her wound.

He bent to her lips while tears rushed down his face. There was nothing he could do. Nothing any man on this earth could do. Keith closed his eyes tight. The words give in fluttered across his mind.

"Save her," he whispered. "And I will." Keith scrunched up his face. Please. Tears rushed faster from his eyes as the thumping slowed to a smooth rhythm and then ceased after one last faint tick. Not even God could save her. His last hope had been torn from him.

A sob rose up in him, pushing from him in a guttural cry as a deep pain seared across him. Never again would he see her eyes full of life. Taste her warm lips. All because of him.

"I'm sorry." He slammed his free hand on the floor. "I'm sorry, Lord, for it all. Please don't punish her for me."

He lay his forehead across hers, letting the tears mix into her hair. I will do what you want.

A small warmth brushed his nose. Keith stilled as a thump grew against his fingers.

Katie's eyes fluttered open and focused on his as she gasped for breath.

Keith rushed back, his head slamming against the sink. Feet rushed towards him as men knelt before her, and a cart was rolled in.

"The wound's not deep. I think we can save her," a man said.

Keith swallowed hard as the words: Follow me floated in his mind.

To be continued....

# Continue reading for a sneak peak at Pardoned.

# Available now on Amazon.

# If you enjoyed reading this book and would like to help the author, please consider leaving a review at Amazon, Goodreads or other booksellers' websites.

PARDONED

ONE

There is no more innocence in her eyes. Keith ran a finger down Katie's pale cheek, feeling dampness- evidence of her tears. His hand trailed to the bandages over her wrist, covering the ten stitches it took to close up the wound. A deep sob formed in his throat before a few tears slipped out. He pushed a fist into his eye, trying to push the pain away, but it only grew. What had he done? He had destroyed her. Keith turned from where she lay on the bed, covered in his black silk sheets, and walked into the hallway as a voice as soft as the wind beckoned to him. Leave, it called. Whenever he stopped to listen to it, it vanished like a ghost exposed to light. He walked outside of his Manhattan penthouse to the balcony, and placed his hands on the rail of the deck - the cool dry air floated around him - feeling like an omen. From this view he could gaze at the tall skyscrapers that pierced into the night sky, as if trying to prove their dominance. Car lights shined like moving stars, down dark narrow paths. His father wanted to give him the world. But what would it matter? He was going to lose his soul.

Keith closed his eyes as images blurred in his mind; images of a future he knew he was destined for. Already, he could feel the heat spreading over him, seeping into his inner being. He didn't want this world. He wanted to be back at Yale, before he broke her – a place he'd never get to again.

With his hands, Keith clamped down on his head – pushing hard. How could he continue this life? He had made a promise. The moment she had breathed, he knew he had to listen to what that voice wanted, and that voice wanted him to follow it. He just wished he knew where.

Dropping his hands to his sides, Keith opened his eyes and looked up at the night sky, void of stars. If I give in, what do I do?

Leave, the words echoed in his mind as if someone whispered in his ear. But where?

Keith dug his hands into his pockets and walked into the apartment. He couldn't stay. He was no longer the same person. The little pieces of his old life had started to be chipped away, bit by bit. His old thoughts, goals, and agenda vanished a little more every day. He walked into his home office, and pushed his shoulders back, looking at the bookshelf full of books she had collected over the years. But what could he do? If he left, his father would destroy him-- use her against him. Hadn't he said once, he'd slice her pretty throat if she caused problems? The only reason she still lived was because she carried a child in her womb. A child who could possibly be the next Wilkerson heir. But maybe the voice would protect her. He could obviously overcome death.

Keith walked to her desk, which sat opposite his, and picked up her iBook. Just as long as the voice protected her and the child, he would be fine with whatever happened to him.

Keith pushed the iBook, full of her various works in progress, under his arm and strolled to a closet, taking out a duffle bag and slipping the computer in along with her Kindle and a photo album of her family - all items he had begun piling against the wall over the last week. Hopefully, these items wouldn't remind her of him. For it would be best if she never thought of him again.

Keith tugged at his collar, adjusting his tie, while he poured over a contract between two major oil corporations - a document that didn't contain one bit of truth. The pen in his hand rattled back and forth before he let it fall to the oak desk. Something once so easy now seemed so hard -- impossible. His father walked by his office, fixing that famous cavernous black glare on him, and Keith felt like the child he once was before he began slipping into the man his father wanted him to be.

He nodded and then looked away as his father's retreating steps announced his departure. He knew. He must be waiting for the right moment to strike. Would he take down his only heir?

Keith stood and walked to the office door, and looked out at the vast, open office space. The secretary had gone home, and now only a dim light covered the desk and chairs. He looked towards his father's office. A lifeline waited in that room \- documents he could use to keep the man at bay, but Keith knew he'd sign his wife's death warrant if he took one piece of paper.

He needed something. But what? He turned back around and grabbed his coat, slipping it on. Walking out, he closed the door as the feeling that he had just left that office for the last time swept over him. If there was just something he could take with him, every document he had at his apartment had somehow mysteriously disappeared. No doubt, Sullivan had visited before he brought his wife home from the hospital.

"William."

Keith stopped, and turned to look at the large, imposing form draped in a dark suit that blended in with his coal-colored hair. A chill sliced through him, as his father's glare seeped right through him.

Keith folded his hands at his waist. "Yes, Father?"

"Has the McCormick, Inc. case been corrected?"

He meant falsified, but Keith wouldn't mention that. "Everything is in order."

"Go home," he said before turning back to his office.

Keith tiptoed back as he turned and walked out of the office, taking slow steps down the stairs that led out of the building. Once reaching the bottom, he pushed open the steel door leading to the basement parking lot as a coldness filled him. His gaze darted around the large, almost-empty lot with only two vehicles, his black BMW and his father's gray Mercedes. No soul seemed to occupy the place, but that didn't mean Sullivan hadn't blended in with the walls. Keith gripped his keys and pushed the button, making the golden lights on his car blink.

Just keep her safe, he whispered as he pushed from the door, racing to his vehicle as if rushing to home plate. He gripped the handle of the driver's side door, yanked it open and threw himself into the car seat, jamming his shoulder on the center console. Pain shot up his arm, but he barely felt it. His hand immediately smashed the lock button. His gaze once again darted around the enclosure, noticing no shadows lurching towards him. All he saw were grey concrete beams, revealed by a golden light.

His chest rose and fell in deep gasps as he fumbled with his keys, trying to find the car key. His father better not do anything to her. If he tried.... Keith gripped his key and jammed it in the ignition. He would.... What? Keith turned the key, making the engine roar to life. Talk to the press. An idea flickered in his mind. He reached for an iPad from his leather suitcase. No, he couldn't take any documents, but he could use everything he knew about the untold history of Arther's rise to power in order to keep them safe.

# Other Works by J.M. Downey

## A Time to Say Goodbye

## A Time to Overcome

## The Bonds of Tradition

## American Prince

## Pardoned

## Persecuted

## Proclaimed

To learn more about J.M. Downey follow her at

 https://www.facebook.com/J.M.Downeysouthernrosepress

and

 http://jmdowneysouthernrosepress.weebly.com/index.html

