

My Savior Forever

Vicki Green

My Savior Forever

Published by Vicki Green at Smashwords

Vicki Green Copyright 2013© Revised 2014©

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form with authorization of the Author Vicki Green©

Editor: Kathy Krick @K2 Editing:

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*Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
My Savior Forever

(Forever Series #1)

'With all my heart,

With every inch of my Soul,

With every breath I take,

I promise to love you forever'

Cassie can't remember being loved, being wanted. At a young age she was placed in Foster care that moved her around from one place to the other. Finally being freed at 18, she was left with no money and nowhere to go until she finds a small town in Kansas where she can start over.

Little did she know her life was going to be uprooted again when she is kidnapped and brutally raped.

Jesse is considered HOT in most women's eyes, but has little time for Romance. While searching for his Mother's killers, he witnesses a young girl being kidnapped. He now faces decisions that he must make quickly.

Will Jesse rescue Cassie? Will Cassie ever find the happiness she longs for?
Prologue

I moved around a lot growing up. I ended up in a small town in Kansas. I needed a job in the worst way, but I didn't know how to do anything really except cleaning up after slobs.

When I saw the 'Need Help' sign in the window of The Sweet Café, I literally ran in there to apply. I explained I didn't know how to do much and they hired me anyway saying they would train me. How cool is that?

I had nowhere to live and no money. When they found that out, the owner Stella told me about the room over the Café. "It's not much but it's clean," she told me. "Unfortunately the only way to get there is the fire escape stairs in the alley."

After getting the key I went up to look at the room. It is very small but perfect for me and she told me I could live there for free as long as I work for her. Wow!

I was not comfortable learning how to waitress yet so I kept the kitchen, bathroom, tables and really the entire Café clean.

Stella quickly started calling me 'pumpkin'. I'm not sure why, but she has become like a mother to me. I was also building relationships with the cook, Peter, and my favorite down-to-earth waitresses, Brenda and Lana.

This was the best thing that has ever happened to me since my parents were killed in a car accident when I was seven. After living in, way too many to count, foster homes I had never stayed anywhere long enough to become friends with anyone or wanted to really.

I am 20 years old, stand at 5' 6" and am about 110 lbs. I know I am way too skinny. My friends at work are always trying to get me to eat more, to put at least a couple of pounds on. My eyes are a light green. They almost look blue, and I have light strawberry blonde hair that hangs down to my waist, which needs a trim desperately!

I don't think I am beautiful or anything but my new friends keep telling me I am. "Girl, if I had that figure, those C cup boobs, that long wavy hair and your great complexion, I would leave this Café in a heartbeat and become a model," Lana would laugh.

I spent most nights in my small apartment reading. I don't have a TV or anything else to entertain me, and I certainly don't have the extra money to go to the movie theatre, so reading it is. But I'm okay with that as I love to read. My favorite books are romance novels. Oh, I would love to meet a handsome man who sweeps me off my feet and who will take care of me and love me. I sigh. A girl has to have her dreams, right?
One

I awake shivering. Slowly opening my eyes, I try to look around me, but they are out of focus, so I close them again. I am so cold, and my teeth are chattering. What the hell? I know its winter here in Kansas, but I don't remember being this cold before now. Opening my eyes again, they seem to be slowly regaining their focus. Looking around the room I see faded, stripping wallpaper with some kind of flowers on a pale yellow background. There's a small dresser and a window on my right, but the window is covered with curtains that are closed so no light is coming in. The curtains are dingy and a very pale yellow to match the wallpaper.

I look to my left and see a set of double sliding doors which I assume is a closet and to the right of that is another door. Maybe a bathroom? In front of me is yet another door. Could be the bedroom door? As I'm looking around the room, freezing to death, I look down at my body. Oh, my God, I am naked!!! No wonder I am so freaking cold!

I try to move my legs but can't move them and see that each foot is tied by a rope to the end of the bed, causing my legs to be spread open. Oh, this is not good at all. My sleepy state has me so confused. To clear my mind, I try to bring my hands from their uncomfortable position stretched above me to rub my eyes, but my hands don't move. I look up and see they are tied by a rope to the headboard of the bed. What? What the fuck is going on?

A door nearby shuts with force and I hear footsteps from outside the bedroom, they are coming closer. Oh, my God, what am I going to do? My heart is beating so loudly I can feel it in my ears. The bedroom door opens, and a man stands in the doorway looking at me with a sly smile on his face. The lighting is dim in here, but I can see that he is well built, not bad looking, but then he smiles wide showing his teeth, which are yellowed and chipped.

"So, you're finally awake. I thought I was going to have to come in and pour a bucket of water over you to get you to come to, not that I wouldn't mind seeing your body glistening," he says with a smirk. My mind is on high alert, and I can't help but feel dirty as his eyes scan my naked body pausing at my hardened nipples that fear and the arctic temperature are causing. Oh, my God! I'm so scared!

"Who are you? What do you want?" I ask through my chattering teeth.

"Oh, are you cold? Sorry, my bad! Here let me turn up the furnace for you," he says sarcastically. He turns around is gone for a second, when he comes back in he walks to stand at the end of the bed.

"Please, let me go. I woo.... Woo....Won't tell anyone. I pro.... Promise," I said shivering and near tears.

"No can do, sweetie. You see, you are just what the doctored ordered. We're going to have so much fun," he says laughing. Looking straight into my eyes, he begins to take off his shirt. It's a torn, faded t-shirt that you can't even see what the design is on it anymore.

"Please, don't! Please let me go." I'm begging now knowing what he has in mind. I'm still a virgin, and this is not how I imagined my virginity would be taken from me.

"Calm down. You will love this, I promise," he sneers.

Still looking into my eyes, he begins to undo his pants starting with his belt. I struggle against the ropes, but they are so tight that I can barely move. He slides his pants down towards the floor along with his underwear, the buckle making a jingly sound as he removes both legs from his pants. Once he is fully naked he begins to crawl up the bed towards me. I begin to scream loudly while struggling. No! I need to get out of here! Someone help me!

"NO! NO! NO! Let me go!" I scream over and over again. He starts laughing at me as he crawls over my body settling between my legs. Putting his hands on either side of my face, holding my head still, he begins to rub his thumbs across my cheeks. "Shhh, shhhh, this will be fun. I promise," he whispers.

He licks the tears that are flowing down my cheek then continues to lick down to my jaw, my neck and down to my breasts. Nibbling and licking as he goes until he bites my nipple hard leaving marks on my unblemished flesh. As the tears continue to puddle at my temple, I cry out in pain with each nip he takes. God! I want to die! "I'm going to mark your body with my teeth and fuck you so hard you will be begging me for more," he laughs deviously. He takes his right hand and moves it down to my left breast and fondles it. He then squeezes it hard, and I yell out in pain. Then he pinches my nipple again so hard that I scream as he plunges into me. I had heard that when you lose your virginity, there is a searing pain as your seal is broken but then it goes away fairly quickly, and then you feel pleasure. The pain has subsided, but what I feel is not pleasure.

"Stop screaming. I am sick of it," he yells at me as he pounds in and out of me. Taking his right hand he slaps me HARD. The left side of my face is throbbing with pain, and my left eye keeps blinking and watering. Please, God. Please take me now. I don't want to live anymore.

He's crushing me with his weight that I have a hard time breathing. I feel his sweat dripping on my body and can smell his horrible body odor. Looking right into my eyes, he lets out a loud moan and stops mid thrust. I can feel his sperm invading my core. He's finally had enough of me. He pulls his now limp and blood covered penis from my sore and aching body. He gets up, finding his t-shirt on the floor and cleans himself. He looks at me, winks, and walks out the door, closing it behind him. I begin to shake uncontrollably from the cold and from the crying for what I've lost. What is going to happen to me now? When he gets his fill is he going to kill me?

As my head begins to clear, my groggy brain starts to remember what happened.

I was going to go to the grocery store to get some things and was walking out of the alley. As I got to the sidewalk, a man approached me. He had a smile on his face and was asking me directions to somewhere. I can't remember now exactly where. As he was talking, I began looking around to see if there were other people close by, just in case I needed to scream, but its late evening and no one seemed to be around.

Then before I knew it, he grabs me around the waist swinging me around so I am in front of him, my back to his chest. He covered my mouth with some rag or something, and I started choking with some kind of horrid smell in my nose and taste in my mouth. I struggled, oh, I struggled but it was no use. He was way too strong for me.

The man continued to hold the rag over my mouth, holding me tight while I tried to get away. My brain began to get groggy, and my eyes started blinking rapidly. He started to half drag me to a waiting car that I hadn't noticed before, parked by the curb we were close to. I began to struggle harder knowing that if he gets me in the car, it will be over for me. When he opened the back seat passenger side door and tried to push me in there from behind, I started getting so sleepy that I am not sure I could get away from him, which I'm sure was his intent all along. I got one of my arms free and placed it on the side of the car pushing against it to try to stop him. He let go of my waist for a split second and grabbed my arm, pulling it behind me then quickly his arm moved back around my waist again. His other hand pushed the rag harder against my mouth. I couldn't breathe so I had no choice but to inhale as deep as I could and that was it. That is the last thing I remember.

I must have fallen asleep or passed out, not sure which at this point. My body is aching and sore, the left side of my face hurts so badly. I try to open my eyes but only my right eye will open. Great, my left eye is swollen shut. I can't hear any noises coming from outside of the bedroom door. I wonder if he left the house again or is just passed out from the bliss he had given himself. It feels like I've been lying here for hours when I hear a door from the outside slam shut. I can now hear voices, more than one male voice, yelling at each other, but I can't make out what they are saying. The bedroom door opens so fast it slams against the wall. There is a very large man standing in the doorway. He has long, black hair that hangs down his chest almost to his waist. He's scowling at me and shaking his head.

"Damn it, Mick, I told you I was to get her first. What the hell were you thinking? I could shoot you for this!" He yells at this so called Mick.

"I told you, I was breaking her in for you, Willie. I was getting her ready for you," Mick says, a little fear in his voice. Willie looks at Mick with another scowl on his face, then he yells, "I told you she was mine first you asshole! Seriously, sometimes I wonder why the fuck I haven't killed you yet. Now, get out of my face and get the hell away!"

Mick backs out of the room and slowly closes the door. Willie looks at me and I shudder when eyes look at my face and then follow down my body slowly, then making their way back up to my eyes. "He shouldn't have hit you. He shouldn't have touched you except to bring you here. I wanted to be the first to have you, to hit you, to make you scream in pain," he growls. His eyes are black and cold. He undresses quickly and I notice how huge he is. Not only his arms and his chest, but his cock too. Oh my God! He begins to stroke his cock like he is priming himself, looking straight into my eyes the whole time.

"Why are you doing this? Please let me go. I won't say anything to anyone, I swear!!!" I beg. "Please just let me go."

He just laughs at me, laughing so hard his head tilt's back. Looking back down into my eyes, he yells, "I know you won't say anything, bitch! It's hard to speak when you're dead." I gasp and then begin to cry. "You can cry, you can scream all you want, as loud as you want. I don't give a fuck. It won't help you," he laughs. He starts to crawl over me and I scream so loud that I think my voice is starting to leave me. He hits me, on the left side of my face, right where I'd been hit before. I groan and am now looking to my right. I decide just to stay there because this way I can't see him anymore. In one quick move, he roughly pulls my bottom up with both hands, and rams his cock into me. I'm so sore from earlier, and his cock is so much bigger than Mick's causing pain to sear inside me. He then hits me with his fist into my left rib cage and I scream out in pain. "Bitch, you need to move with me. Give me a good fuck! I will bleed you if you don't. Do it right!" He screams at me.

I try to move my body a little, but I'm in so much pain that I can barely move. He hits me again in the same place and I flinch, screaming out again. Please, just kill me now. Just end this torment! "Move damn you!" He growls. Sharp pain is piercing my side, like a knife is being repeatedly pushed into it. I move up against him as he keeps ramming his cock into me. I still can't move much. He hits me again. "Damn it, bitch! Come on, you can do better than that!" I suck up the pain and start moving with him, not as much as he is but more than I was. He gets faster and faster slamming his cock in and out of me. I hurt so bad that I feel dizzy. Finally, he stops, grunts and pulls out of me. I can feel the liquid from him inside me and I shudder. And with that he leaves the bedroom, slamming the door behind him.

I doze on and off trying to figure out how I can get out of here. My wrists and ankles are sore from my tugging on them trying to get free. I can feel wetness running down my arms and am thinking it might be blood from the ropes biting into my wrists. I haven't heard any noises from outside the room for a while, but I didn't hear the front door either so they must still be here.

A little while later I hear the bedroom door open. Both men stagger into the room. Mick has a bottle of Jack Daniel's and Willie has a bottle of tequila.

"Time to have some more fun, bitch. This time two on one," Willie says while walking to the left side of the bed. He begins to undress and I look to my right to see Mick is undressing too. Oh, no! No! I start quickly trying to think of a way out of this.

"Wait! I want a drink too, then we can really party. Untie me and let me show you what a great time we can have," I say hoping that maybe if I can get on their playing level, I can escape.

"Hehehe. No way, sweetie. I know you think we may be dumb, but we aren't," Mick says laughingly.

"I don't think you're dumb at all. I just figured since I can't get away why not join the fun instead of fighting it?" I say, trying to sound convincing.

Mick looks over at Willie and shrugs. "What do ya think? Could be more fun if she's drunk like us and can actually make us get off better." Willie moves his head back and forth, looking at both of us then gives me that cold stare and scowls?

"If we untie you and at any time you try to get away I will hurt you so bad you will wish you were dead. Do you understand me, bitch?" I nod slowly. "Untie her and let's get this party started," he sneers at Mick.

Mick comes over to the bed and unties my feet. Oh, my ankles hurt so badly, I move them around trying to get the blood flowing. Mick moves down to the head of the bed and starts to untie my hands. "For Christ's sake, Mick! I seriously don't think we are quite that stupid, you idiot! Leave her hands tied. She doesn't need those loose in order to party with us anyway," Willie yells. He is completely undressed now swigging his bottle of tequila. He lifts my head and pours some in my mouth. I start coughing and gagging. "Ha, that will put hair on your chest," he laughs.

Mick is undressed now and takes a huge swallow of his Jack Daniel's. He lights a cigarette, blowing smoke out into the room. Willie pours more tequila in my mouth, and I gag more until I get it down. He stands there, naked, taking a huge swig from his bottle. "Come on, Mick. Let's get this show on the road." Mick puts his cigarette out in an ashtray on the dresser. "Mick," Willie yells. "Come over and hold her up." Mick lifts my body up as far as it will go from the bed while Willie gets underneath me. "Now, turn her over," Willie demands. Mick rolls my body over onto Willie's, twisting my hands in the rope. "Owwww!!!!!" I scream. The pain is excruciating, and I have tears flowing from my eyes. I try to squirm, but Mick has a firm hold on my waist as Willie grips my breasts with both of his large hands, squeezing them so hard it's painful. I scream for them to stop, wiggling as best I can trying to move away but both men laugh at me.

Next thing I know Willie slams his fist into my left side over the large bruise that I feel is already there, and I hear a crack. I groan loudly, and my head hits Willie's shoulder from the impact. God, I don't think I can handle much more. Please take me. "I don't mind the screaming, bitch, but I told you earlier you needed to move, give us both a good fuck! Do it!" He screams at me. I'm breathing heavy from the pain but I try to concentrate and begin to move with them. God, I hurt so badly. Please save me.

After what seems like an hour, but I'm sure is only minutes, Mick lets out a loud moan and stills. I feel his fluids seeping in and out of my anus. It wasn't long after that Willie begins to slow down and starts shivering. He stops, closes his eyes and just stays there for a couple of minutes.

Willie finally pulls his cock out then moves me over and gets out of the bed. He walks to a chair in the corner of the room and begins drinking again. Mick is over at the side of the bed, lifting me up he rolls me over onto my back then walks over to the dresser and follows suit with his bottle, guzzling the liquor. He then lights another cigarette, closes his eyes and takes a deep drag. My body is shaking uncontrollably as I watch them and wondering what they are going to do next.

Willie looks at Mick, then at me. While looking into my eyes, he says to Mick, "Go ahead and tie her feet back up. I think we need to go out and do some more partying." Mick nods and begins to approach me.

"Noooooo! Please don't do this! Please let me go!" I scream as I begin kicking at Mick while he ties up my feet. Once they are tied again my ankles are aching with pain. Damn that hurts! They are so sore, and my wrists are so scraped up now. I grimace and scream out in pain.

Willie comes over to my left side and smacks me across the cheek. OW! "Shut it, bitch. I am sick of hearing it." Then he rubs my cheek then smacks it. "Don't you worry when we get back we'll party some more," he smiles wickedly.

They both quickly dress and leave the room. I listen for noises and can hear them walking around and finally hear the front door slam. I am alone again.
Two

I can't believe what I just witnessed. That poor girl. Another one of those messed up asshole's sick and twisted brain games and what they think is fun. I need to get to her! Getting into my car quickly I follow them. I need to save her. I couldn't save my mom, but I can save her. I just hope I'm in time.

I get held up behind some stupid truck, and by the time I get into their driveway, they'd already taken her into the house. I drive across the grass, to the right, and park my truck in the shadows of the darkness next to a huge tree. If they look out of a window, they won't be able to see me. Quietly getting out of the car, I hear a noise at the front door and freeze. I back into the front seat, holding my breath, and close the door when I see one of the assholes standing out front and taking a piss off the porch. I finally release the breath I'm holding once he goes inside. Shit! I need to get in there, but I need to be careful that I don't get us both killed. Fuck! When am I gonna learn and just get the police involved? But they didn't help me before, so I no faith in them. I have my team that has been helping me look for these assholes. I have to handle it on my own. I've got to save her.

As I send a text to my team I hear noises coming from the house. My head rises quickly in time to see the men coming out of the front door, whooping and hollering, obviously drunk. I watch as they get in their car and back out of the driveway and wait until I can't see their tailights anymore. I need to be careful. God, I hope I'm not too late!

Waiting just a couple more minutes I bring the hood of my hoodie up over my head and creep out of the car. When I get to the front door and turn the handle, I find it unlocked and quietly step inside. It's pitch dark inside as I walk around through the mess of a living room. Pigs! Making my way into the hallway, I open a door slowly to find an empty room. Quietly, I close the door and walk to the next room. When I open the door, I can barely make out scarce furniture and freeze when I see a bed, and the girl lying on it. I move my flashlight at the foot of the bed. Her feet are tied by the ankles, dirty and bruised. As I move the light up her legs, I cringe when I see all the bruises, blood on the sheets in between her thighs and when I keep moving the light up, I see a huge bruise over her ribs. My heart is racing, the anger in me swelling as I get the light to her face, and I see how badly beaten and swollen her cheek is. She squints at the light and looks so scared. She looks young, maybe late teens? My heart breaks for her. God damn motherfuckers!

"Please don't hurt me anymore. Please let me go," she cries with a shaky and hoarse voice as tears stream down her face, her body shaking.

I raise my hands up in front of me and speak to her as if speaking to an injured animal. I need her to know I'm not here to hurt her. "Shhhh, I am not going to hurt you. I'm here to help you. I'm going to untie your hands now, ok?" She nods at me and watches me move to the head of the bed, reach over her and start untying the ropes. I can tell I'm hurting her when the ropes loosen because she winces and closes her good eye. I look down at her while I work. "I'm sorry if I'm hurting you. I'm really trying to be careful, but I don't know how much time we have before they come back."

Finally, I get her hands free and her arms drop down on the bed. "Owwww!" She screams. Anger floods me, but I have to control it. I have to get us out of here, safely. Our time could be short. Those assholes are capable of anything.

"Shhhh, please. I'm sorry. We need to be quiet," I tell her softly as I look back at the door. Quickly, I move fast to the end of the bed and free her right foot, then her left and get a better look at how badly her ankles are bruised and bloody. She tries to sit up, but grimaces and lies back down. I walk over and gently help her get into a sitting position and carefully move her legs over the side of the bed. I can tell she's trying to look at my face, but my hoodie is covering most of it. Looking around the room, I find a t-shirt on the floor, pick it up and start to hand it to her.

"Um, no. I'm sorry but one of them used that to clean himself." Her face scrunches up into a frown. Shit! What am I thinking? My mind is racing with getting her out of here that I'm not thinking about what I'm doing.

"Oh, damn. Sorry. Let me see if there is anything in the closet." I walk to the closet and slide one of the doors open and grasp it tightly as it almost falls off the track. There are just a few men's shirts in there none of them looking that great, but I don't have a choice. I grab one and head back over to her. "Here. I know it's not great but it's all I can find." It's a worn men's plaid button down shirt with some of the buttons missing. She lifts her right arm and puts it in the sleeve, but when she tries to lift her left arm, she cries out in pain. "Let me help you. We need to hurry." Her body is shaking, her eyes wide with fear, but she finally nods slightly and lets me take the side of the shirt. Gently, I put my hand around her wrist and slide her arm into the sleeve, her eyes on me the entire time. Leaning over I button up the shirt and then stand back a bit. "Can you stand?" She nods and slowly tries to stand, but flinches in pain and sits back down. "It's ok, don't worry. I'll help you." I bend down to put my arm under her legs, my other arm starting to wrap around her waist to lift her when she gasps and pulls back. I quickly halt my movements and look into her eyes. "I can only imagine what you've been through but please trust me." I look back at the door, then back at her scared face. "I promise I'm not going to hurt you. I won't let anyone hurt you anymore. Let me help you." Her body relaxes a little as she moves forward and nods.

I lift her as gently as I possibly can. "UGH," she moans, her head laying on my shoulder, and I can feel her entire body shaking against me. Damn! I need to get her to a hospital and fast!

"Sorry, sorry!" Fuck! I wish I could call an ambulance and have someone who knows what the hell they're doing take care of her. I don't want to hurt her.

I carry her out of the bedroom and down the short hall, through the living room and to the front door. I open it slowly and look around outside. It would just be my luck that those assholes returned while I was concentrating on getting her out of there. It's dark outside and only a dim porch light is on but thank God, I don't see any signs of them. I get her over to my truck and struggle a bit to open the passenger side, but finally get it open and slowly lower her onto the seat. I buckle her in securely, quickly close the door and run around the front of the truck. I get in the driver's side, fasten my seat belt and start the ignition. As I drive on to the main road, I reach behind me and pull out a bottled water from a small cooler there and hand it to her. She's got to be thirsty as I'm sure she wasn't given anything while she's been in that filthy house. She thanks me, and I watch as she opens the lid and drinks the water so fast that the bottle is empty in a matter of seconds.

"Ok, slow down there or you'll make yourself sick." I give her a small grin. Looking at her in the moonlight that's coming in through her window, I can tell how beautiful she is even with her cheek turning purple and swollen. What am I thinking? Now's not the time to be having those kinds of feelings, shit! I reach up and push off the hood of my hoodie, shake my head and run my hand over my light blonde scruff of a beard. When I look over at her, I see her body is trembling so I lean over and turn up the heat in the truck.

"How....? How did you know I was there? How long were you waiting before you came in?" She asks, her teeth chattering.

"I'm sorry it took me longer than I had planned. I've been sitting out of sight in my truck waiting for the best moment to come in to get you without getting us both killed. Once I saw them leave and drive off, I waited a few more minutes just to be sure they didn't turn back around," I said staring out at the road. Fuck, I wish I had gotten to her sooner, before they touched her. I'll always regret that as long as I live.

"But how did you know I was there?" She asks again with a confused look on her beautiful face. My eyes travel down to her hands that are fidgeting in her lap.

I begin to speak slowly. "Well, it's kind of a long story. I've been watching them for a couple of years now, kind of undercover. This is the first time they've actually grabbed someone and brought them back to their hideout. I was shocked at how stupid they'd become but this was the opportunity I needed to nail them. I'm sorry it was you they took." My eyebrows crease with my frown.

She looks around my old beaten up truck. Thank God I had cleaned it out, but I love my truck. It's gotten me a ton of use, but it's pretty worn now. "Thank you for getting me out of there, for whatever reason you had being there, I'm glad you were." She begins to cough, grabs her left side with her right hand and her face creased telling me she's in pain.

"Are you ok? No, of course you're not. What a stupid thing for me to ask. I'm taking you to the closest hospital for them to check you out. Is there anyone I can call for you?" I ask as my eyes look at her and then back at the road. She slowly shakes her head and lays it back against the headrest, closing her eyes. I can't keep my eyes from looking at her and notice when her breathing evens out. She's got to be worn out and hurting so badly. Damn, I wish I could have saved her before she went through what I can only imagine to be horrible pain and God knows what else. She looks so young and God help me, she's so beautiful. I can't help it. I am a man.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

When I awaken, I am in a hospital room wearing a lovely hospital gown. My right hand hurts. I look down to find an IV attached there. Wow, my head hurts, my eye, my left side and I am sore down in all my girly parts as well. Memories invade my mind with all that's happened. I feel ashamed, used, violated and disgusted. Looking around I see the man who saved me, my savior, is asleep in a very uncomfortable chair by my bed. He looks so tired. I'm sure it's been a long night for him as well. My heart starts racing and feelings are stirring in me. How can I be feeling this way? I can't help how my heart feels as I look at him. His blonde hair hanging over his eyes, the light blonde scruff of his beard and when I first saw his piercing blue eyes my heart skipped a beat. What in the hell is wrong with me? I just was kidnapped and raped, but there's no mistake of the tingling in my body when he picked me up in his strong arms. I must be mad from everything that just happened, that's it.

I start having a coughing fit, and I am coughing so hard I feel my face turning hot. The next thing I know a cup of water is being pushed into my hand. I grasp it and try to drink when I hear, "Drink it slow or you'll end up choking." My eyes dart up and see my savior looking down at me. I was finally able to get some water down my dry throat, my coughing subsiding as I look up at him and give him a small smile.

"How long have we been here? The last thing I remember is being in your truck and then I woke up here." I remember his tender touch, the look on his face when I spoke.

He looks around the room, then back at me. "Actually, we've been here about three hours. I brought you through the ER and they took you into a room there pretty quick. When they finally let me go to the room the doctor said that he was going to keep you overnight and you'd be moved to a private room but they didn't tell me anything else." I can't believe we've been here that long, and I hadn't woken up until now.

My mind is filled with confusion and feels all cloudy. "So I never got a chance to ask you what your name is." My eyes follow him as he walks back over and sits in the chair by my bed. He looks at me and cocks his head to the side.

"I never got a chance to ask you your name either." He smiles at me with those beautiful gleaming blue eyes. Internally, I sigh. Ugh! I can't help it. He just makes my heart flutter with the sound of his voice. Yep, something is definitely wrong with me.

I laugh a little causing my ribs to protest, and I wince. "I asked you first." I smile shyly.

He reaches over me, takes my right hand, shakes it and gives me his gorgeous smile. "My name is Jesse Richards. Nice to meet you finally but I wish it was under different circumstances." I laugh again closing my good eye and open it again to see him staring at me with a concerned look on his face. His smile turns into a frown. "I'm sorry I shouldn't keep making you laugh when you're hurting."

"I haven't laughed in a long time, that part feels good. My name is Cassie Morelli. It's nice to finally meet my savior." I look down at my hands that I'm wringing, and I feel so shy.

He laughs. "Savior? Well, I don't know about that."

I look back at him quickly. "No, seriously, you are my savior. I can't thank you enough for getting me out of there. I know they were going to kill me when they were done with me," I say remembering their words of hatred. I shudder.

The door to the hospital room opens and a female doctor walks in with a nurse behind her. "Good you're awake. I'm Dr. Moore. Are you in a lot of pain?" I nod my head. My eyes follow the nurse as she walks to the side of my bed with a syringe and pushes it into the IV. Dr. Moore looks at me and smiles. "There, that will help. Are you hungry? I can have Nurse Allen get you something to eat."

"Yes, please. Thank you," I say quietly. Dr. Moore nods to Nurse Allen and watches her leave the room, then walks over and sits in the chair that Jesse had once occupied. She looks at him and says, "If you could leave us for a few minutes I would like to speak with Cassie alone. I will let you know when we're done." My heart races and fear rakes through my body. I'm still scared and don't want Jesse to leave.

He looks at me, and I shake my head slightly, then he looks back at the doctor. "No, thank you. I think she would be more comfortable if I stay."

The doctor turns to me. "Is that ok with you?" I nod shakily. The doctor nods back and then proceeds to explain that I have two slightly cracked ribs and there is heavy tape around them to help hold them together while they heal. I have a bruised left cheek and a black eye. She looks at me with concern. "With your permission I would also like to perform a rape kit procedure on you. Jesse has told us you've been raped. This will help evaluate any presence of sexually transmitted disease agents. By having a rape kit performed, it will also help us gather forensic evidence that could help convict your kidnappers when they are caught. I know the procedure can be intimidating, but I promise we will take it slow, and I will explain each step as we go. We have already collected your clothing when you came into the hospital, but we need to swab your bite marks for saliva, look for loose hairs on your body, and take pictures of your bruising as well as do vaginal and rectal swabs." Taking a deep breath, she continues, "We also offer an Emergency Contraceptive pill. You may have heard it called 'The Morning-after Pill'. It is 95% effective in helping to prevent pregnancy. We can proceed with these tests once you have given us permission." Her eyes move to Jesse and then back to me. "Cassie, I know it's a lot to take in but I really recommend having all of these things done. Take your time."

I look over at Jesse and back to the doctor. "Yes, I.... I would like that please," I say shyly.

She smiles and pats my hand. "Cassie, we also have some information on people you can talk to about what happened. Strictly confidential. I'll just bring some papers in here for you to look over when you're ready." She stands and smiles again. "Very good. Are you ready to get started?" I nod again.

After the procedure was done and all of the evidence collected, Dr. Moore is standing by my side. She looks at Jesse then back and me. "You did really well, Cassie. How about I have the nurse bring some food? Now, is there someone we can call for you? Family? Friends? Anyone?" I shake my head. I really don't want to call Stella yet, not until I know what's going to happen. But I know she must be sick with worry. "All right then. The police are here to ask you some questions. I'll show them in. When they're finished try to get some rest, ok? I'll be back as soon as I get the test results." She smiles at me, turns and leaves the room.

About twenty minutes later, the nurse comes in with a tray of food and a pill in a cup. She sets it down on the hospital rolling tray and moves it over me. "Here you go. If you need anything else just press the nurse's button on your bed there, ok, sweetie?" She points at the buttons on the rail of the bed.

"Thank you," I said, lowering my head. I know they are all trying to help me, but this is so embarrassing. It's hard enough with Jesse here, but for some reason I don't feel that as much with him. I feel safe with him, protected.

When the nurse leaves, Jesse looks at my food and then at me. "Dig in. You need the nourishment." He smiles.

"You have to be hungry too. Do you want some of this? I'll share," I asked him.

"No, thanks but if you don't mind I think I will go down to the cafeteria and grab something. I won't be gone long. I promise. Ok?" I nod at him and watch him leave feeling alone.

I literally scarf down my food and drink the huge glass of water they had given me. With a full tummy, I lay back and fall asleep. When I awake Jesse is sitting in the chair by my bed watching me. "Ok, that's embarrassing." I grin. He laughs and gives me a beautiful smile.

"You shouldn't feel embarrassed. You're beautiful when you sleep," he whispers. He coughs. "Sorry, sometimes I can't help what comes out of my mouth. No filter." He chuckles. Wow! I feel my face getting warm, and I'm sure I am blushing terribly. How can he think I'm beautiful after what those men did? He must be really tired and delusional right now. That's it.

He gets a serious look on his face. "Look, we need to talk. I made some calls while I was gone, and I need to ask you a few questions, ok?" I nod at him scared of what he might ask. He clears his throat. "Cassie, I've been after these guys for two years and getting nowhere trying to catch them. I need to know if they are taken into custody, will you testify against them for what they did to you? This is really important. If you do it, this can help put them away for a very long time. I know it would be a very hard thing for you to go through and I really hate putting you through it but without you they will just go out and do this to another unsuspecting girl or worse."

My heart feels like it's beating out of my chest. Can I do that? Can I even look at them after what they did to me? I lay there for a minute, but it doesn't take me too long to nod and say, "Absolutely I will." I can't take a chance, and I have to help put them away behind bars. If I can help so that no one else is raped or hurt by them again, then I have to do it!

He smiles at me and sighs in relief. "I've made arrangements to take you to my safe house to help protect you while my men are trying to locate them. Since they've returned to the house and found you gone, they are running now. The police will also be looking for them but my men have gotten their patterns down and may have better luck finding them faster," he explains.

"You have a safe house and what men?" Who has a safe house just lying around? Ok, that seems odd. I can't explain it, but I still feel safe with him. I must be crazy. Can I just go there with him? I know I feel safe, but I really don't know him. I guess it's better than the alternative of going back out there, alone and those horrible men still on the loose. I feel so unsure yet I want to be safe and he makes me feel safe. I need to trust him.

"Look. I know you don't know me but I know what I'm doing. Trust me. I will explain everything when we get there, ok? Right now, as soon as the hospital lets you leave we need to get on a plane and get you there so you'll be safe." A plane? Just where in the heck is this place?
Three

The doctor came in and told us they wanted to keep her overnight just to keep an eye on her which I think is a good idea and they'll get the test results by morning. So, I spent the evening mostly on my phone making arrangements as she dozed off.

"Yes, get the plane ready to leave as soon as I call you in the morning. Call Allie and ask her to go out and get some clothing for Cassie. Tell her she is about her size. Oh! And women's necessities too, you know. Get some medical supplies in case we need them and have the Johnson's stock the fridge and pantry. I don't know, for a few months at least, just in case. Grab my Satellite phone and my laptop too as well as some clothes for me. Have Avery pick up my truck. Yes, I know. I know!" Dang, Tyler can be so hard headed sometimes but he's not only the best man I have but my friend. "You know what else you need to pack for me? Yes. Ok. We will see you in the morning." I look over at Cassie and watch her sleep. She's so beautiful and innocent. I feel terrible that I didn't get to her sooner. Fuckers! I want to put them away even more now or just kill them and end their miserable lives! How can they keep hurting and killing people and sleep at night? I sit in the chair by her bed and stare at her until my eyes grow heavy and finally close.

Bright and early the next morning, the doctor comes into the room waking me up and I nod as she walks over to Cassie's bed. "Good morning. How are you feeling today?"

I notice her wince as she shifts in the bed. "Sore, but I slept pretty well," she says with a sad smile on her lips.

She looks at Cassie's chart and her eyes look up at her and smiles. "Good. I'll make sure you get another shot for the pain before you leave. The test results came back and everything looks really good. No STD's, no internal issues and no pregnancy." She looks over at me before returning to Cassie. "However, I feel that you should take another pregnancy test or maybe a few within days of each other because it could have just been too early for anything to show. As I told you yesterday, the morning after pill is 95% effective however, there is still a small chance of pregnancy. The tests you can buy over the counter are very accurate now." She smiles. "Now, your ribs will take about four to six weeks to heal so you'll need to be really careful. I'm giving you some pain meds to take with you that should help control the pain level as well as a prescription you can fill when you need to."

"Thank you, Dr. Moore. I really appreciate all your help," Cassie says as the doctor begins to leave the room. The doctor turns around and smiles. "I'll go and get the discharge papers ready so you can go. It was nice to meet you both. I hope everything works out for you, Cassie. Please read over the information I gave you, ok?"

As soon as the doctor leaves the room, I pick up my phone, hit a button and put it to my ear. "They are getting the discharge papers ready now. We'll see you in about twenty to thirty minutes." I quickly hang up and see Cassie staring at me, hesitation showing on her face. I walk over and sit down in the same chair I slept in last night. "Look, I know you're scared, you don't know me from Adam, but I care about your safety. I want to help you and I want these guys locked up, badly.

"But.... But why do you want them locked up so badly? I mean, I appreciate all your help but I don't understand." She looks down at her hands that are nervously twisting with each other in her lap and then back at me. "It's really weird but I'm actually not scared to go with you. I can't explain it, but I feel safe with you." She gives me that sad smile again and I return it.

"Good. I'm glad. I promise I'll tell you all about why I want them so bad at another time, ok? Promise." I feel bad not telling her, but there's so much to tell and we don't have that kind of time. I don't know why I feel like I need to tell her all about me, my life and my secrets. But I do.

Once we leave the hospital, I get us a cab and as we get closer to the airport, I can tell she's getting a little nervous by the look on her face as she looks out the window. I know she's trying to trust me, but I know she really doesn't know me and is going to a foreign place with literally a stranger. She's so brave. This has to be really hard on her, but I have to keep her safe until those assholes are caught. I just have to. I couldn't help Mom, but I can damn well sure help Cassie.

Walking through the airport we enter through a private gate, walk down a hallway and through a door that leads outside. My small private plane is sitting there waiting. Thank God! Tyler's standing at the base of the stairs leading up to the plane in his all black attire. I hope he doesn't scare Cassie with his hard looks. He's really tall and has on a black t-shirt under a black jacket and black jeans. He is wearing Polaroid's that hide his eyes and has jet black hair that is cut really short. He's really muscular and looks like a badass but is really such a great and caring man.

When we walk to him I shake his hand and we give each other our normal 'man hug'. I look at Cassie and smile. "This is Tyler. He's our family bodyguard as well as a friend. Tyler, this is Cassie."

Tyler bows and gives a slight smile. She smiles back. "Nice to meet you, Tyler." The look of confusion is apparent on her beautiful face. We board the plane, and I get her a pillow and blanket trying to make her as comfortable as I can. "It's about a two hour flight so I want you to be comfortable. After we take off I can get you something to eat and drink, ok?" I tell her as she winces when settling into her seat.

She nods at me and smiles. "Thank you. That would be great." I watch as she fastens her seatbelt and tries to get comfortable as I sit across from her in the really nice and comfortable leather seats and buckle myself in.

Shortly, Tyler appears and nods at me. "We are ready for takeoff. I'll let you know when you can move around the plane." I nod, and he leaves for the cockpit.

I sense she's never flown on a plane before, and I can't help but watch her as her eyes grow wide as she watches out the window when the plane takes off. I love watching her expressions. "So, where exactly is this safe house and why do you have one?" She, all of a sudden, blurts out.

I clear my throat. "Well, um.... You see my dad is actually a famous surgeon and there have been times over the years that the public has gotten a little carried away seeking his attention. He basically takes care of the medical needs of quite a few famous people." I shrug. "A couple of years ago, the men who kidnapped you, well, they killed my mother."

She gasps, covering her mouth with her hand. "Oh, Jesse. I'm so sorry. That's horrible. Is that why you've been after them?"

I nod and look out the window. "Yeah, it's been hard to pin them down. They've kept moving around so much. I've been trying to get something on them to put them away since I had no evidence to get them for my mom's murder." My head turns back to her and my frown increases. "They need to pay for what they've done. That's why I need your help. Since I can't get them for my mother's death, I can put them away for what they've done to you."

She looks down and appears to be thinking really hard, but doesn't take long. She looks back up and into my eyes with a determined look casing over her beautiful face. "I'll do whatever I can, Jesse." She gives me a slight smile. "I'm sorry for what you've gone through and for the loss of your mom. No one deserves that." We both just sit there and look at each other.

Tyler's voice comes over the speaker, now breaking us out of our locked stare, telling us that it was ok to move around the plane. I unbuckle my seatbelt, stand and give her a smile. "Would you like ham or turkey on your sandwich?"

Finally, she gives me a gorgeous smile. "Ham, please and do you have a Diet Coke? I would love that too if you do." She has to be starving, poor thing and a Diet Coke? Is she kidding? I'd give her the moon right now if she'd ask for it.

"Coming right up," I say with a wink as I make my way to the back of the plane.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

While I wait for my food, I am thinking of how horrible it must have been for Jesse to lose his mom to those horrible men and how they killed her. How awful. Then I think about my mom and dad and how I miss them so much. They were taken away from me at such an early age by a drunk driver. I guess that is murder too, but in a different way. I wince as I move a bit in my seat, my ribs causing me some pain as I try to get comfortable again.

Jesse returns and places my food and drink down on a side tray pushing it in front of me, along with one of my pain pills and then he sits in his seat with his food. I am starving! "Great sandwich," I say between bites.

He laughs. "Wait until I cook for you at the house. You haven't tasted anything yet." He winks at me. Swoon! After what just happened to me why does my heart beat a little faster when I'm around him? I still feel so cheap and dirty, but yet looking into Jesse's eyes all I can see and feel is caring and concern. And to find out that his own mother was killed by these vile and ruthless men just makes my heart bleed for him even more.

"A man who cooks too?" I take another huge bite, smiling around my sandwich. I'm feeling more relaxed around him even though thoughts keep entering my head about that night. I shiver.

After we eat, I'm so tired that I lay my head against the pillow, pull the blanket over me and fall asleep. The next thing I know Jesse is shaking me slightly telling me we are here. I sit up and stretch, my ribs protesting. "Owwww." Dang, I really need to learn not to do that while I'm healing.

"Are you ok? Do you need another pain pill?" His face is full of concern and worry. He's so beautiful, his brows are creased and the worry lines are apparent on his forehead.

I smile as I rub my side gently. "No, it's ok. I just really need to remember not to stretch like that for a while." He nods and smiles sadly and gathers our things. When we get off the plane, I look over and there's a black SUV with dark tinted windows. Jesse is quietly talking to Tyler behind me, so I can't hear what they are saying.

I turn to see them shake hands and do the 'man hug' and then Jesse walks towards me. "Ready?" He asks, smiling.

"Ready as I will ever be." I smile back. He continues to give me his beautiful smile, looking at me with those light blue gleaming eyes. I think I just melted. How can I feel this way? I'm so confused yet my insides are tingling again. Jesse opens the passenger car door for me, and I carefully sit down and watch him as he runs around the front, gets into the driver's seat and starts the car. As Jesse's driving he tells me it will take about an hour to get to the safe house.

"So, tell me about your family. Why didn't you let me call them while we were on the way to the hospital or while we were there?" He asks suddenly looking over at me and then back at the road in front of us, a frown on his face.

"Well, my parents were killed in a car accident when I was seven. A drunk driver hit them. I was told they died instantly. And I do have some friends but I really wasn't ready to talk to them about what happened yet but I know they are worried about me." I shrug and look down at my hands in my lap. "I really need to call Stella. I'm sure she's so worried."

He turns his head and frowns. "Cassie, I'm so sorry. What happened then? Did you go live with an aunt, an uncle, or other family?"

"Uh, that's another long story that I really don't want to talk about yet, ok?" I beg my face turning into a frown. His look of concern is so sweet, and he seems so gentle.

He looks at me and nods. "We'll have plenty of time together so I hope that eventually you can feel more comfortable with me. Maybe you'll feel like you can tell me later." He puts his hand over mine that is lying on the seat and gives me a serious look. "It sounds like you've been through a lot in your young life and now this.... Cassie. I know it's hard to trust me so soon but I really want you to feel that you can." I smile at him, hoping maybe one day I will feel that way too. I already feel that way, as much as I can now.

I fall asleep on the way. When I wake up, the car isn't moving anymore, and Jesse isn't in the car. I look through the front window, almost in a panic, but find a beautiful house. It's a two story house in the shape of an 'L'. I'm unable to move as I look around and take in all the beautiful scenery. The house looks so homey, something I don't remember ever having. A knock on my window makes me jump, and I turn to see Jesse standing with my car door open and smiling at me. "Jesse! This is amazing!"

He chuckles and holds his hand out to me. "Wait until you see the inside. Come on let me help you." So sweet! I put my hand in his, and he helps me out of the car and leads me into the garage. We walk through the door that leads into the house, and I stop still making him stop in front of me.

The entryway from the garage is a laundry room on the right and a closet on the left. Looking in front of me, I can see it opens into the most fabulous kitchen. Dark cabinets and stainless steel appliances. There is an island that is shaped in a smooth curved L and all the counters are a shade of gray. Everything looks brand new. Do they ever use this place? To the left, in the same room, is an eating area with a beautiful mahogany table and chairs sitting in front of a huge bay window. I have never seen anything like this in my life and feel so out of place. "Jesse, this is fabulous. Seriously, it's so beautiful!"

He gives me his award winning smile and walks me into the kitchen. "This is where I will be making all the awesome meals for us," he chuckles. He then takes me through the kitchen into a small hallway and in front of us are stairs that lead to the second story. I look to the right and see a guest bathroom. He leads me to the left down a hall, and then we turn right and walk into a huge living room that has the most beautiful furniture. A wall mounted flat screen TV hangs over a fireplace with a light colored tan leather couch facing it. An oversized tan leather chair sits next to it on the left, and a beautiful square coffee table is in front of them. On the walls, I see what looks like family pictures. There are built-in bookshelves on either side of the fireplace filled with books. I could get lost in those books, curled up on the chair with a fire blazing in the fireplace. Wow! I think I just drooled a bit from my mouth that's hanging open. This is like a celebrity's house that I've only seen in magazines.

"Come on, let me show you the rest," Jesse says as he leads me past the living room. "This is an office that I use when I am here. I don't always use this as a safe house. Sometimes I just come here when I want to be alone and while I am here I can get some work done too."

I look at him with a smile. "Work? How can you be undercover and work here?" Just what the heck does he do for a living? I can feel so many questions forming in my head.

"Ha, well that's a long story that I'll tell you at another time," he says and flicks my nose with his finger. Too cute! There goes my heart again. Sigh.

We head back the way we came and head up the stairs to the second floor. We turn left at the top and begin to walk down the hall. "This first room is a bedroom. Next is a bathroom that connects to that bedroom and the bedroom on the other side. Now this one at the end is the master bedroom. You can stay in there while you're here and I'll take the room next to it."

"Oh, no," I say as I shake my head. "I don't have to take the master bedroom. It's your house, you take it." I stop where we are in the hallway and cross my arms. Surely, he can't be serious. I feel like I'm intruding as it is. No way am I taking that room.

He smiles and mimics my stance. "Nope, you're taking it. I insist. I want you to be comfortable while you're here and it has the best bed in the house." He opens the bedroom door, and I gasp. This is bigger than my entire apartment. I have never seen a bedroom this big before in my life.

"Wow. I could just live in here. It's all so beautiful!" I smile. I'm not lying. I totally could live in this room. He has no idea.

He laughs and tugs me into the room, pulling me to the right, he opens a door to show me the bathroom. Then he turns me around and takes me over to a set of double doors to the right. When he opens them, I'm in shock. It's an enormous walk-in closet with racks of clothes. I can see the tags are still on them and there are shoes beneath them on the floor in an orderly fashion. "Ahem, I hope you don't mind. I took the liberty of having my sister go shopping, which she lives for anyway, to get you what you need while you're here. I hope they fit. You look like you're about the same size as her."

"Oh, my gosh, Jesse. Thank you but you didn't need to go to so much trouble and spend so much money. I really appreciate it though. I'll never be able to pay you back." I look down and fidget with my hands. I can't believe he went to all this trouble for me. No one has ever taken so much time and care for me, not since my parents were killed. Well, my friends at The Sweet Café have been great, but he doesn't even know me and look at all he's done for me. I'm seriously taken aback by all of this.

My head is lifted by the gentle touch of his hand on my chin. "Cassie, helping me is payment enough. Trust me. Money is no object for me," he smirks. What the hell does that mean? Damn heart is speeding up again.

Jesse leaves me, so I can lie down for a bit. I am exhausted. He gave me the pain meds the doctor provided and shuts the door on his way out. I took one and then when I lie down on the bed I'm in heaven. I don't know about the other beds in the house, but this is so comfortable, and I'm so exhausted that it doesn't take me long to fall asleep.

"NOOOO! NOOOOO, don't touch me! Let me go, please let me go." I'm tossing and turning while screaming at the top of my lungs. Sweat is pouring off me. I can feel someone shaking me and yelling. They're here, and I can't stop them. Someone stop them! Help me!

"Cassie, Cassie wake up! You're having a bad dream. Wake up!" Opening my eyes, I look into Jesse's concerned ones. I'm breathing heavy and am trying to focus on him. I sit up quickly, throw my arms around his neck and bury my face into his shoulder and begin to sob uncontrollably. "Shhh, shhhh it's ok, honey. It's ok. I've got you now. I've got you," he whispers in my ear as he wraps his arms around me and rubs my back. He's here. Thank God!

Calming down I pull back, my arms still wrapped around his neck. I look into his caring eyes. "I'm sorry. I couldn't get away. They wouldn't let me go." I start breathing heavy again.

"Shhh, it's ok, honey." His head leans forward and looks in my eyes. "Try to calm down for me. Take some deep breaths. Why don't I go and run you a nice bath and you can soak in it while I finish getting dinner ready, ok? I think it might help calm you." I smile at him and nod finally letting him go and watch as he walks into the bathroom. I hear the water running in the bathtub and shortly after, he comes out and just stands there looking at me. "There are some pajamas in the dresser over there. Please help yourself. No need to dress up for dinner." He smiles and winks at me.

I give a small laugh and take a deep breath. As he starts to leave I stop him. "Jesse?"

He turns towards me, giving me a small smile. "Yes?"

"Thank you so much for being there for me. I've never had anyone do that before. Well, I guess I've never needed someone to do that before but thank you for being there," I say shyly.

Jesse looks at me and cocks his head. "Never?" He asks sadly, and I shake my head. "Well, I am honored then to be the first person that could do that for you." He smiles and leaves the room, closing the door quietly behind him.

I soaked in the tub full of hot water for what seemed like hours. I finally get out once I noticed my fingers pruning and I'm almost falling asleep. After a great dinner of salad, green beans, baked chicken and rolls, I am stuffed to the brim. Damn, he can cook. What can't he do?

"Wow! You ARE a great cook!" I smile at Jesse and get his gorgeous smile in return. "I'm so full I am about to explode." He chuckles lightly and then looks down like he is a little shy. Who knew? "You cooked so I can help by cleaning up," I say as I start to stand and gather up the dirty dishes, yawning rather loudly.

"Oh, no you don't! You are my guest here and you need to be careful and heal so I'll clean up. And obviously you're tired," he laughs. Well, I can't deny that.

I put my finger to my chin like I am really thinking hard. "Ok, but here's the deal. From what I understand we could be here for quite a while so as I am getting better I will start pitching in around here and if you cook, I will clean up. Deal?" I ask, my smile wide.

"Deal," he says with a smile and a wink. Ok, I need to get outta here. My heart is racing again, and I know I shouldn't be feeling this way. I feel guilty for my feelings. Something is really wrong with me.

"Ok then. I am going to head up to bed. Thank you so much for a lovely dinner." I walk over to him and kiss him lightly on his cheek. Even though I am still a bit nervous, I am starting to feel a little more comfortable around him. He is so caring, tender and of course so HOT! If I wasn't so messed up, I could really fall for him.
Four

I've been shooting emails back and forth with my dad's friend who is a psychologist asking all kinds of question about getting some help for Cassie. Yeah, her body will heal but will her heart and her mind? Under our situation, she recommends that Cassie and her talk on the phone, and she can do some things on the laptop I had Tyler buy her. With the way she reacted about all the clothes that will probably freak her out even more. But she needs this. She needs to heal all the way inside and out.

My head lifts up abruptly when I hear screaming coming from Cassie's room. Jumping up I make a mad dash for the stairs, taking two at a time, and run down the hallway. When I open her bedroom door, I'm on alert with what I see. She's sitting up in bed screaming so loud it's piercing my eardrums. I can see the sweat on her, her chest rising and falling with her heavy breathing, and her fists are squeezing the comforter in a death grip. Quickly, I run into the room and sit down next to her, putting my hands on my shoulders.

"Cassie. Cassie. It's ok," I say calmly. My hand leaves her shoulder and brushes some hair from her face and but then returns fast to keep ahold of her. Fuck! I don't know what to do! I'm no expert here. Have I taken on too much? Maybe I shouldn't have brought her here.

She begins to quiet down, but she's still breathing heavy. I'm afraid she'll start hyperventilating. "They.... They won't stop. They won't go away," she says stammering, with tears and fear in her eyes.

"Who won't go away, honey?" I try talking to her quietly and gently, trying to ease her fears as best as I can.

She starts sobbing. "Those men, they won't leave my head. And.... And what they did. I.... I.... I.... They.... They won't leave my head!" My heart breaks for her and I quickly put my arms around her and try to pull her into my arms. She needs to feel safe. Motherfuckers! I want to kill them even more than ever now.

"Come here. No one's going to hurt you, not while I'm around." She finally lets me pull her to me, her arms immediately moving around my neck, and she starts crying into my chest. After a few minutes, she starts hiccuping as she begins to calm down. "Do you want to take a pain pill, baby? It will help you sleep," I ask her in a whisper. Baby? Where did that come from? It just poured out of my mouth, feeling her warmth against me. I just couldn't help it. It's the way I feel. She moves back and nods so I walk fast into the bathroom and come back with one of her pills and a glass of water. I watch as she takes the pill and sets the glass of water on the nightstand. I can't stop myself when I put my hand on the side of her face, my thumb rubbing her soft cheek and my fingers running through her hair. "Are you ok now to try to sleep?"

She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "I think so. Thank you." I start to stand and turn to leave until I feel her warm hand in mine. "Can.... Can you stay with me until I fall asleep? Please?" I look at the sadness on her face and the tears that are forming in her beautiful eyes. How can I say no to that?

I look down at her and give her a small smile. "Of course I will." I watch as she lies back down, trying to get comfortable and can tell the pill is starting to take effect by her slow moments. I walk over and pick up the chair from across the room and bring it next to the bed and try to get relaxed. I watch as her eyes grow heavy, and finally, they close, her breathing turning light.

Stretching my hands above my head, I stretch feeling so comfortable. Damn, I'm in the bed and turning my head I see Cassie's side is empty. I rub my face and eyes with my hands trying to wake up and slowly my sleepy mind remembers getting so tired last night and looking at her so warm in the bed that I crawled onto the other side and passed out. The reality that's she not here hits me, and my adrenaline starts to rush as thoughts invade my head of her missing. Jumping out of bed, I quickly race down the stairs and stop in my tracks at the entrance of the kitchen. She's cooking breakfast. I lean against the door frame, folding my arms over my chest and watch. "Morning."

"Oh, my God, Jesse! You scared the shit outta me!" She yells, almost dropping the skillet in her hand. My feet start to move me towards her before I realize I'm moving.

She sets the skillet down quickly and grabs her ribs. "Cassie, are you ok? I didn't mean to scare you. I'm sorry," I almost yell as I jog over. Before I can think, I put my arms around her, and she looks up at me. I have to be about five inches taller than her. This feels so natural, so right. I'm gonna scare her off men forever, particularly me. But how can this be wrong when it feels like we fit together like missing puzzle pieces? Maybe I'm the only one that feels that way.

"I'm ok. Damn! When am I gonna learn not to stretch or make sudden movements?" She grimaces a little and takes a step back, my body missing her warmth immediately.

I can't help but chuckle. She's just too cute. "Well, I hope you learn that soon before you hurt yourself more." I get a smile from her and a little giggle. Seriously, too cute.

Over breakfast, we talk about all kinds of things. We each take turns telling each other our favorite color, movie, book, things to do and so on. It feels so weird how I feel like I can tell her anything, and she seems to be opening up pretty freely to me. "So, your dad's a surgeon for the rich and famous? Wow. How does one get to do that?" She laughs while twirling her hair and I join her laughter.

I let out a big sigh and frown as I get serious. "Well, once he became a surgeon in LA, he specialized in Orthopedics. He was working in the ER one night and a famous movie star came in. He ended up treating them and they told others and pretty soon others just started calling him so he ended up opening his own practice. The rest is history as they say," I lower my head and chuckle.

"That's amazing. He must really be good. How can the son of a famous surgeon have a safe house that no one knows about?" My eyes dart to her and see her looking down at her hands in her lap, and I can imagine they are fidgeting, but then she looks up at me and I can see her body relax.

I give her my best smirk. "A son who set it up under another name that's not associated with his. I call it my safe house because it's where my dad, my sister, or I can come when we want to get away and not be bothered." I stand and start gathering our dishes. "I'll clean up this time since you cooked. Why don't you go and get comfortable on the couch and we can watch a movie when I am done."

"Sounds great. I'm just going to go upstairs and get dressed first. Be right back," she says while standing. I look over and watch as she walks out of the kitchen, and I continue to get all the dishes over to the sink.

After getting the kitchen all cleaned I head into the living room and start looking through the DVD's. I think we need a comedy or something light that we can get comfortable with and forget all the stress for awhile. My body turns slightly when she walks into the room and sits on the couch, pulling her legs underneath. The jogging outfit she put on fits perfectly and shows all of her curves. My body is not helping as the warmth floods me, my heart starting to beat faster and my cock is twitching. Not now! This is so wrong to feel this way. Ok, I am a guy and can't help it, but she is so fragile right now. I need to be strong for her and quit thinking with my heart and my dick. "So, what sounds good to watch? I have most of the newer movies that are out right now."

"Hmmm, I don't care as long as it's not a drama. I think I have had enough of that for a while. You pick," she says, giving me her beautiful smile.

Smiling to myself, I grab a DVD and put the disc into the player. When I sit over on the couch, I can tell she is nervous, her hands fidget in her lap, so I quickly turn on the TV and push play on the DVD remote. Finally, the movie starts and she laughs. It's Ice Age.

"I freaking love this movie!" I say laughing.

"It's one of my favorites when I need something lighthearted." I start laughing with her. I watch as she seems to relax, and we sit back to enjoy together.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

I must have fallen asleep because when my eyes open the movie is over. I notice the TV is off, and I'm so warm and comfy. I feel a hand rubbing my hair on the back of my head. Oh, that feels so good. Looking up, my eyes immediately connect with Jesse's. At some point I had laid down on the couch with my head on his lap. Oh my!

"Sorry, I hope I didn't wake you." His mouth is curved on one side giving it a sexy grin, and his eyes are glimmering. "Cassie? I've been trying really hard not to say anything that would make you uncomfortable. I really have. You've been through so much. But I have to tell you. You're so beautiful," he whispers. I lay there staring up at him and can't help looking at his lips that now have turned to a sexy pout. He leans down lightly brushing his lips to mine. He holds them there for a minute and pulls back. He looks at me with such caring and love? Nah, it can't be love, lust maybe? I sit up abruptly, holding my side and turn to him. I can tell he's as uncomfortable as I am. "I'm sorry. I know it's too soon. I shouldn't have done that," he says quickly looking down. Damn. His lips are so soft and even though I'm embarrassed it was so good.

I shake my head and sigh, giving him a small smile. "No, actually that was perfect. I know we don't know each other very well yet and yes I have a lot to deal with after everything but I do trust you. You make me feel safe, protected." I lean over and kiss his lips lightly. His left arm moves around me, his right hand lies on the side of my face, and he deepens our kiss. His tongue searches my lower lip until I open my mouth for him. Our tongues explore each other's for what seemed to be hours, even though I know it was only minutes. Wow, can he kiss! This is so unexpected. My heart is racing, my body flaming even more. We are both breathing heavily now, and I am practically on his lap. When did that happen? Finally, I pull back and look into his gorgeous eyes. "Wow! That was incredible," I whisper. His smile is huge showing me those white perfect teeth and then his face turns serious.

"Yes, you are," he says, looking deeply into my eyes. I have just melted into a puddle on the couch.

Things like this just don't happen to me. I mean never. Nothing has gone right in my life. When I was kidnapped it just added the icing on the cake that is my life. Now, looking into my savior's eyes, I feel that maybe my life is changing. Finally, something good is happening. I'm excited and scared at the same time. Scared that it could change, that this could be taken from me. No, I am going to live in the now, for the moment, day by day. I am not going to let this feeling overtake me. I'm going to be happy and enjoy this as long as life lets me. Am I crazy? Is it crazy that I feel this way so fast after everything? How can he feel anything for me right now, knowing what they did to me? Doesn't he think I'm as dirty as I feel? I'm so confused, but my whole being is alive when I'm with him and when he kissed me? Tingling sensations went throughout my entire body. Is that supposed to happen? God, I wish my mom was still alive, so I could talk to her, or maybe it's time I call Stella and tell her what happened and ask her. I don't know what to do. I really need to talk to someone about everything.

He clears his throat, but gives me his frown again. "Cassie, would you.... Would you like to talk to someone, like a psychologist? I want you to be able to get the help you need. I'm not stupid. I've done my research on, um. Well, you know. Rape victims. I really think it would help you. Then maybe...."

I look down quickly and pick imaginary lint off my pants. This is so embarrassing, but he's right. I do need help. Looking back up and into those beautiful blue ones, I smile. Yes, I need to get healed inside so that these feelings I have, these feelings apparently we both have, might turn into something. Something more. Nodding quickly I start feeling determined. "I would love that. Thank you. I think that's just what I need to help to be able to move on past that."

He seems to relax again, and his gorgeous smile reappears. "Great! Come on. I have something you need to know about." He takes my hand and helps me off the couch, then pulls me down the hall by his office. Just before his office door on the right there is a wall with a built in bookcase.

"Geez, you all must really like to read. You have bookcases filled with books everywhere," I said, looking at all the books in awe.

He chuckles, "Yes, well, we do, but these aren't real books. It's just for appearances. Feel them." I reach out and touch a book. It feels real to me. I tug on it, but it won't budge. What the hell? That's so weird.

"See, they look and feel real, right?" He asks and I nod, my brows coming together in my confused state. He then runs his right hand across the next to the highest shelf and stops on a book and pulls on it. I jump back as the bookcase moves to the right along the wall and a doorway appears. Ok, that was kind of scary.

He grabs my left hand and intertwines our fingers. "It's ok, it's a safe area downstairs. It's used in case of an emergency. Come on. I'll show you." A safe area in a safe house. This is all so strange.

We take a step into a passageway. He reaches over and flips a light switch on the wall to his left. In front of us is a spiral staircase. Guiding me down the stairs, him in front of me, he flips another light switch on as we reach the bottom of the stairs. I gasp as I stare into the huge room in front of me. It looks like it is as big as the upstairs. Looking around I see a rec room with a pool table, couches, and a bar to the right along the wall. As we walk through the room, he shows me a large bathroom on the left and on the other side is an alcove.

He leads me into the alcove. "If, for some reason, say the house is being broken into, you can come down here. On the inside of the wall is a hidden button. It's very hard to see because it's built into the wall." He presses the button, and a sliding door opens into the wall. It's a small room, so small that only a few people would be able to fit in it comfortably. There is nothing really in there, but walls and a security light. "It's a safety room in case the downstairs is breached," he says looking at me. Right. Breached. His family is sure prepared for anything.

"Wow, you have certainly thought of everything with this house." I give him a smile and am so impressed right now.

He reaches up with his right hand and cups my cheek. "Anything to keep my family safe." His touch just shot those tingling sensations all the way down my body again, and I think I just melted.

Once we make our way back upstairs we just lazied around for the rest of the day, watching movies and snuggling on the couch. I could really go for this every day, especially the snuggling part. I find that I am losing myself to him. Surely, he can't want someone like me. He will come to his senses when this is all over. But for now, I am going to enjoy it.

When the last movie is over, he clicks the remote and the TV turns off. He pulls away from our snuggling position, turning his body to mine and says, "Care to have a more serious discussion now?"

I swallow hard and turn to him, mirroring his position and half smile. "Um, what kind of serious discussion?" I ask feeling very unsure of where this is going.

He looks at me with those gleaming, caring blue eyes and clears his throat. "Well, in the car on the way here you mentioned something about a long story of your life. What happened to you once your parents died? Do you think you can tell me now?"

Wow, ok. I guess I can do this. No, I need to do this. I want to know everything about him, and I want him to know everything about me. I feel like I'm falling so deep for him and am so comfortable with him now. I need him to know. Then, if he decides I am not worth it, it can be over quick. Even though it will kill me for him not to want me, because I will never ever find another man like him. I'll try to live the rest of my life as best I can. I mean really, my life has not been a great one so far. I might as well continue it the same way. Shifting a little in my seat, out of nervousness, I begin.

"Ok, um. I'm an only child and have no living relatives so it's just been me. Even though I was only seven, I was a fairly smart kid. I mean look how brilliant I am now." I laugh nervously, and he smiles. "Anyway, the state put me in the world of foster care. Let me just say, it's not all cracked up to what it should be. I mean I think there are some great foster care families out there, but I never found one. I went from one foster family after another. There were so many I lost count at one point, but this was all out of survival instinct. Each one was worse than the other, yelling, verbal abuse, physical abuse." I stop there and look over to him. He's just staring at me, eyes wide, with a scared look in his eyes and his mouth slightly open.

"No one cared, really. No one showed any love. To answer the question in your mind, no, I had never been raped before, but it's not that some didn't try. They did other things that I have pushed way far back in my mind because they are too horrible to remember. So I just kept running. I would be caught and placed, yet again, in another wonderful foster home." I take a deep breath as tears start forming in my eyes, but I refuse to let them drop. Not now, be strong!

"This kept up until the age of eighteen. Once you turn adult age the state simply kicks you out onto the street, on your own, with whatever belongings you have at that time, which of course is not much. They give you a little money but it's not enough to really get you started. You have no job and really no way to fend for yourself. I mean, who does that to a poor, defenseless eighteen year old? Seriously, I still wonder to this day how they can do that to someone." I look at him as one single tear falls down my left cheek. He reaches over and rubs it away with his thumb.

"Cassie, if you want to stop, we can pick it up again some other time. Really, I didn't mean to.... You don't need to go through all this." He leans over and wipe away my tear.

"No, this is good. I want you to know." I smile at him and take a deep breath. This is harder than I thought, but I can do this. I need to do this.

Another deep breath and I continue. "Once I was out on the street, I was lucky to find a small café." My hands start fidgeting in my lap again. "It's where.... It's where you saw me being taken from." Looking up into his eyes, I see the recognition hit and his body stiffens so I move on quickly. "I saw a 'Need Help' sign in the window. Of course, I didn't know how to do anything but clean because most of the foster homes made me clean their houses. They never wanted to lift a finger, so I got really great at it. I really didn't mind it too much. It's not like it was that hard to do. So I went in an applied for the job." I smile and get a faraway look in my eyes as I remember walking in the front door with my head held high. "The Sweet Café. It's called that for the best homemade desserts they make." Yum, I can smell them now. And as if on cue, my stomach starts growling.

He laughs, his face softening. "Um, do you want to grab a snack to munch on while we finish our discussion?"

"Ha! Sure, sounds good to me." We both get up from the couch and make our way to the kitchen. He's still laughing when we get there. He gets out some microwave popcorn and starts to make it. I go to the refrigerator and get out a Diet Coke for me and a regular one for him.

"You know you don't need to be having anything diet, Cassie. Seriously, you are a little on the skinny side. Not that you're not the most beautiful woman I have ever seen," he adds quickly and softly.

I think my face just flushed several different shades of red. I just stand there and stare at him, with the refrigerator door still open. I can't believe he just said that. I am going to melt so much I won't be here anymore.
Five

"Jesse, you're so sweet. Thank you. But, um, actually I love the taste of Diet Coke. I am kind of a diet cokaholic." I smile as I watch him laughing so hard, he's bent over with his hands on his knees.

Finally, he straightens back up, still laughing and chokes out, "Well, the first step is admitting it, I guess." I start laughing too. His laughter is so contagious.

Once we get settled again on the couch, basically in the same positions facing each other as we were before, eating our popcorn and sipping on our drinks, I begin again.

"I was so nervous going into the Café. I had never applied for a job before and other than cleaning I really had no other training of any kind. But they were so welcoming and said they would train me to be a waitress. They said I could start by bussing tables and helping to clean the kitchen until I was more comfortable. It didn't pay a lot but it was my first job. I was so excited and so thankful." I stopped and ate some popcorn and took a big gulp of my drink.

He looks at me and gives me that wonderful full smile. "It's so great that they took you under their wing like that. Not many would do that. I think I'm gonna have to pay them a visit and thank them and of course try out some of their homemade desserts. I mean, I wouldn't want to offend them," he chuckles.

I laugh. "Ha, yes we wouldn't want that." We sit there for a minute laughing before I resume. "Well, after cleaning and cleaning and more cleaning I finally tried waitressing and ya know what? It was easy. Geez, if I had only known that at the beginning. I started making more money with the raise they gave me and the tips were great! I became more at ease with people. I was really shy at first because I really didn't trust anyone. After what I went through in my life, I didn't think there could actually be nice people out there. Then I realized one day those that had been mean and abusive to me were a select few out of many and not all people were like that. The manager who hired me and the other staff at the Café helped to show me that." I smile, remembering Stella and all the care and love they gave me.

Again, I sit there reminiscing of my friends. I miss them. I really need to call Stella. I sigh. "The Manager-Owner, Stella, and all the people that work there became my friends. They showed me everything and were constantly trying to get me to go out and do things as well as trying to fatten me up. Their words, not mine. Ha!"

He laughs again and gives me a cocky smirk. "Well, um, I can see how they would. You are a little on the skinny side. I think that is my new mission in life, to put a little meat on those bones." He pokes his finger in my good side, and I giggle.

I look at him and give him my smirk. "Well, ok then. But don't get too carried away."

"Never," he says, giving me a devious smile.

"So, that's basically my story, such as it is. What about you? What's your story? Fair is fair." He rolls his eyes at me. Really?

"Hum, well, I'll share but not tonight. I think we've had enough depressing stories for now." He smiles. "We can have that discussion another time. I think maybe it's time to get a good night's sleep, ok?"

"But I'm not tired," I say with a huge yawn.

"Ha, yes I can see that. Come on, let's go." He laughs and reaches his hand out to me, which I take without hesitation. We get up and start gathering the popcorn bowl and soda cans and head to the kitchen. He turns off the lights as we make our way to the stairs. I begin to ascend the stairs and can feel his hand on my lower back. Sigh, I can really see myself with him, here forever. We both are reluctant to say goodnight but finally, my hand slowly leaves his, and I head into my room. Once I've changed into pajamas and settled into bed, I lay there staring up at the ceiling and think of all things Jesse.

The faces are back in my head, the movements, and the horror. "Make it stop!" I scream. I'm tossing and turning, getting all twisted up in the sheets, sweating and screaming. "No! NOOOOOOOOO! Stop!! Let me go!!! Jesssseeeeeeee! Help me!"

Quickly, I am in Jesse's arms. He's rubbing my back and whispering comforting words in my ear. A hand is pressed against the back of my head. My screams are muffled as I cry into his chest, and all the while he is rubbing my head trying to comfort me. "Shhh, baby. I've got you. I'm here. You're ok, baby. Shhh," he keeps repeating over and over.

As I begin to calm down my breathing, the hiccups start. I can't stop sniffling though. That was the worst nightmare I think I have ever had, and I have had plenty in my short life.

He lays us down and wraps me in his arms and whispers, "Is this ok?" My head nods against his shoulder. "I wish I could take away your nightmares, baby. I'm so sorry that happened to you, but I'm so glad it was me who found you."

We lay like that for what seemed like hours. He keeps softly whispering to me until I finally close my eyes and drift off to sleep.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

The next few days I can tell her shyness is starting to decrease around me. I convinced her to talk to our family psychologist and that seems to be really helping. Thank God. I gave her the laptop Tyler bought, and I'm so glad I got that for her. The doctor recommended she write a journal, and I thought it would be easier for her to type it. She needs to call her friend Stella but Tyler thinks it's better to wait a bit longer as they follow up on some leads by the Café. I know she's anxious and Stella is probably worried sick about her.

One afternoon as we were cleaning up the kitchen after lunch, and I'm wiping off the counters, she stops me mid wipe.

"Um, Jesse?" She seems like she's gone back to her shy mode or maybe she just really is at times.

I continue to wipe and look over at her and smile. "Yeah?" She's shifting back and forth where she's standing, all nervous for some reason.

She looks down, her hands start fidgeting. "Is.... Is that a tattoo on your arm?" She's too fucking cute. Really, too cute.

My face lights up with my smile and I give her a nod. I stop my cleaning and set the cloth down, walk over to her and pull up my sleeve all the way over my shoulder. I turn so that my left arm is in front of her. "It's a symbol that means forever. I got it after Mom died. I wanted something showing my memories would always be of her, forever." I give her a big smile, thinking of my mom.

She reaches her hand up and lightly begins tracing it with her finger. "It's beautiful." Her finger slides over it following the pattern. It's a heart, but has lines going around it from either side and through the middle. She seems mesmerized by it.

I look at her and smile, and I notice her shiver. I drop my sleeve, reach over and put my hand on her shoulder. "Are you ok, Cassie? Are you cold? You're shivering."

She looks at me and blushes. "Um, no. I'm fine, really." Her shy smile is back. "I'm, um, gonna go lay down for a bit, ok?"

I frown and my feelings of concern invade me once again. "If you're sure you're ok."

She seems to compose herself, shaking her head, taking a deep breath and nods her head, maybe a little too much. "Really, I'm fine. I just.... I'm just gonna go lay down." She smiles, turns and leaves me standing there all confused. I wonder what that was all about. Women. I'll never figure them out. But Cassie? I'd love to try.

While Cassie is taking a nap, I decide to call my secretary, Betsy. "Oh, that's great! They will love that. Yes, that's perfect. Ok. I know! Don't you think I know that?" I sigh and tap my fingers on the desk. "I should have more time to spend on that, at least for a while. Thanks, Betsy. You know I really appreciate you and all that you do. I couldn't manage without you. I love you too. Bye."

I wrap up some things on my laptop, head out to the living room and stop beside the couch when I see Cassie sitting there flipping through channels on the TV. "Oh, you're awake. Did you sleep well?"

She turns her head and looks up at me, giving me a half smile. I wonder what's wrong. Did she have another nightmare, and I wasn't there for her? Anxiety washes over me, and I kick myself for not staying close to her while she slept. "Um, yes, I did. Thank you," she says with a bit of a snap.

My confused look has to be apparent as I stare at her. "Ohhh, kay." I glance at the TV screen and then back at her and my confused expression morphs into a smirk. My head cocks and I cross my arms over my chest. "And what are you watching?"

She looks at the screen quickly, then proceeds to look back and forth between the screen and me like she's unsure what to say. "Well, it's a great show about making plastic containers. I'm really learning a lot actually." She's so busted.

I have to clamp my lips in order not to burst out laughing. I keep staring at her, and she begins to wiggle in her seat showing me she's extremely uncomfortable. "Hmmm, didn't seem like you were the crafty type." I give her my best smirk. Now she's really looking even more unsure of herself.

"Well, I do like to make things, um, sometimes. It's nice to get ideas," she shrugs, her hands fidgeting in her lap.

"Ok then. Well, I am gonna go get cleaned up." Still confused, I head upstairs to take a shower. Wonder what's going on, why the cover up? I hope she confides in me what is in her pretty little head. Damn, my cock is twitching again. No way can I be thinking or hoping for anything more with her yet. Time. She needs time. Sounds like I'll be taking a cold shower.

After dinner, we're sitting on the couch watching a movie. I've managed to get my arm across the back of the couch almost touching her shoulder. As the ending credits of the movie roll up the screen, she turns to me, tucking her legs underneath her.

"Jesse?" She hesitates. "I'm sorry I was a little, um, short with you earlier. I overheard you talking on the phone in your office and, well, um, who's Betsy?" She quickly looks down, then, her hand starts fidgeting. "I mean, it's really none of my business...."

My body turns to her, mimicking her position. "Oh! Betsy? She works for me. Why? Wait!" I stop abruptly and slide closer to her and lift her chin with my finger, looking deeply into her eyes. "Are you, are you jealous?" My cocky grin spreads across my face and my heart is soaring in hope.

Her head snaps out of my grip. "No! No! Why would I be jealous? That's the silliest thing I have ever heard." The most beautiful blush flows across her face. She's so jealous. I'm so relieved that's all it is and yet, I need her closer as my heart continues to race, my body heating up for her.

My laugh escapes me. "Hmmm, ok. My mistake. But that color looks beautiful on you." Her head drops, totally embarrassed.

"I.... I.... I don't know what you're talking about," she whispers into her chest.

I can't take it anymore. My hands grasp her upper arms and pull her to me. My lips press against hers, and she lets out a moan. I hold the back of her head with one hand, and my fingers entwine into her soft hair as we deepen the kiss and both moan in unison.

When we finally break away we are both panting. Her eyes are full of lust as they look into mine. "I'm sorry," she whispers.

My fingers smooth against the soft skin of her face and all of a sudden I'm worried. "I'm not. I have feelings for you, Cassie. Feelings that I can't stop. You need to tell me to stop, if it's not what you want. I don't think I can stop on my own." My eyes search hers in fear, yet in hope.

She takes my hands in hers. "I'm not sorry for that. I.... Believe me, I have feelings for you too but I...." She stops, taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly. "I'm not sure I'm ready to act on them fully yet. I'm confused and I'm still trying to figure them out."

I can't stop myself and pull her into my arms, holding her tight. "Baby, you take all the time you need. I know you've been through so much. You're so brave." I move back a bit and stares into her eyes. "Do you know how brave you are?"

She shyly shakes her head, and I bring her back into me quickly. "Oh, baby. You're the bravest person I know."

We stay like that, just holding each other, for quite a while until she begins to yawn. I walk her to her room, holding hands, our fingers entwined. When we reach her door, she turns to me. "Will you.... Will you hold me while I sleep?" Her eyes beg, pleading me to stay. "The nightmares don't come when I am with you. I feel protected with you." My heart beats faster and swells with love. I'm falling fast and hard for this beautiful girl. I've been trying my best to fight it, for her sake, but I can't fight it anymore. I don't want to fight it. I want her.

I place my hand on her face, cupping it and holding it there. "I will always protect you, Cassie. Come on let's go get some sleep." I lead her into the room, shutting the door behind me. She quickly takes her pajamas into the bathroom to change.

Grasping the top of my shirt in back, I pull it over my head and remove my jeans, leaving my boxers on and climb into bed, turning the covers down on Cassie's side. I watch as she comes out the bathroom door and pat the bed next to me. "Come here, baby."

She walks over slowly, shyly, and climbs in. I move closer to her, wrapping my arms around her and pull her into me and start rubbing her arm. The tingling feelings I get each time she touches me excel when she lays her arm across my waist. I am laying here in complete comfort as she begins to drift off, and I can't imagine ever going to sleep without her. I lightly kiss her head and whisper, "I'll always protect you. Sweet dreams, baby." She smiles against my chest, and I continue to lay there wide awake until I notice her breathing falls light, her warm body relaxing completely. Then and only then do I allow my eyes to close.
Six

As the days pass by, my feelings slowly bloom for Jesse. We kiss more now. I'm not feeling quite as shy around him. My ribs are healing, and the bruises around my eye and cheek are a light yellow now. I am feeling so much better. And my talks with the doctor and my journal writing are really helping me heal inside too. I know I have a long way to go yet, but I'm getting there and feeling somewhat better about myself.

As we lay in bed one night talking, I turn in Jesse's arms. "Thank you," I say as I kiss his cheek. His arms tighten around me. I couldn't feel any safer and content as I do right now.

He looks at me and smiles. "And.... What are you thanking me for exactly?"

I sigh. "For taking care of me, holding me. Sometimes I feel like everything is going so good. Almost too good. Too perfect. Nothing ever works out for me. I'm scared something's gonna happen. To you, to me, I dunno. I can't explain it." I shrug. I hope not, but I can't help feeling this way. Every time something is going well for me, something always manages to make my life miserable again. I want to stay in this bubble, with Jesse, and never leave.

His brows lower and he looks at me with concern. "Baby, we can only take one day at a time. And I, for one, am going to make sure you're happy and stay happy. Everything will be ok." He wraps his arms around me tighter and kisses the top of my head.

I snuggle back into his chest and smile. Then I sigh again. "Well, also, I, um. These feelings for you. I...." Oh, my God, this is so hard! I can't look at him. "I want to be with you, um, more, but I don't understand how you could ever want to be with me. I still feel so dirty, so cheap. I can't help it. Why would you want me like that?"

He lets me go and turns on his side. Putting his left hand on my face, he rubs my cheek, his blue eyes piercing mine. "Baby, God, I know that it's hard for you after what happened but that's not what I see when I look at you, when I kiss you or when I touch you. I see a beautiful woman. A brave and remarkable person who has overcome heartache in her life and terrible, horrible things that have hurt her over and over again, mentally and physically." He stops and looks at me with such admiration. "I see the person I want to be with. I see the person who makes me feel more than anyone has ever made me feel. I see the person I want to touch all over and make love to. I see you."

Tears are in my eyes now overflowing and stream down my face. He wipes away some from my cheek and leans forward, pushing his forehead against mine. "Baby, I will wait. I will wait for you to be ready even if it takes forever. Please believe me," he whispers softly.

I nod, with my forehead rubbing up and down on his, and I take a deep quivering breath. He pulls back and looks at me. "Are you ok?" He asks as he brushes the hair out of my face.

I look into his eyes and sigh. "Yes, I'm ok now. Thank you for being so good to me. You always make me feel better about myself, my circumstances." Leaning over again, he kisses my forehead, his lips lingering there. Lying back down, he pulls me with him, and we lay there for a while not saying anything. He goes back to rubbing my arm as we lay there until I finally manage to fall asleep thinking how lucky I am.

The next afternoon we're watching TV. I look over to find Jesse has fallen asleep on the couch beside me. I get up quietly walk over to the chair, pull the Afghan off and cover him with it. I decide while he rests to take a shower and take a nap myself.

Once I'm done getting cleaned up, I climb into the bed, feeling alone, but he was sleeping so peacefully I didn't have the heart to wake him up. Finally, after laying there for a while I drift off.

My mind comes into reality as I scream into Jesse's chest and hit his shoulders with my hands. "Shhh, baby. It's ok. You're ok. I'm here. I've got you now. Shhhh," he says in my ear. I start to calm down, but am breathing hard. What in the hell happened? I remember laying here feeling lonely without him and then.... The men, they held me down.... They....

Moving back slightly, still sniffling, and with tears rolling down my face, I look into his worried eyes. "Jesse, make it go away. Make them go away. Please! Please make them go away," I beg. We sit there searching each other's eyes looking for answers.

"Oh, baby. I wish I knew how. I truly do. I would do it in a heartbeat. I would do anything to take away your pain. Tell me how. Tell me how," he pleads.

"Make love to me, Jesse. Take the nightmares away. Touch me, feel me. I need to feel you. I need you." The tears keep flowing, and I can't stop them. I need this. I need to feel like a woman again, not some dirty piece of meat. I need to feel loved. I need him so badly!

He looks at me with tears forming in his beautiful eyes. "Are you sure, baby? I don't want to hurt you in any way. I need you to be sure this is what you want. You know I'll wait until you're ready, no matter how long that takes."

"I have never been more sure of anything in my life, Jesse. I want you. I need you. Please." He looks at me with love in his eyes. Wait! Love? No way! It can't be. It's too soon to be love and why would he feel that way anyway? No one has ever loved me since my parents died. I don't know that anyone really can.

"I would love to be your first. Truly your first," he says with a lone tear falling down his cheek. Rubbing the tear from his face, I smile as my tears blur my sight.

Helping me lay back on the bed, he hovers over me, leaning on one elbow on my left side. "I will be extra careful of your ribs, but you tell me if I'm hurting you in any way or if you need me to stop for any reason, ok?" Nodding, I pull him towards me until our mouths connect, and we begin to kiss slowly. It doesn't take long until we deepen the kiss and we get heated

"You have way too many clothes on," he says with a smirk. I help him by sitting up taking my hands to the bottom of my shirt, pull it over my head and throw it on the floor. I have no idea where that just landed. He looks down at my bra, looks back up to my eyes and reaches around me, unclasping my bra as we stare into each other's eyes. Slowly, he pulls one strap over my shoulder, down my arm and then the next. Once removed he throws it. Crash! Oops! I don't think that was the floor. I peek across the room and see that it landed heavily against the lamp on the dresser knocking it over. We both can't help but laugh when we look back at each other.

"I'll get a new one. I don't care," he whispers as he gently pushes me back down. I should feel self-conscious as he looks at my breasts with his gleaming blue eyes, but I don't. I only feel desire. "Beautiful."

He attacks my mouth with his, my arms sliding around his neck on impulse, my fingers thread into his hair as he holds me close, so tightly that I can barely breathe. It's as if we can't get close enough. I can barely take a breath, but who cares at this point. Who needs to breathe? Breathing is so overrated. As our tongues explore each other's, he moves his left hand down to my breast and softly rubs my nipple between his thumb and finger until it's peaked and taut. Oh, my God, that feels so good! I never imagined it could feel like this. The tingling sensations are back, but so much stronger, making their way to the pit of my stomach and all the way down to my groin. I can't stop the groan that comes from deep within me, but is muffled as it travels into his mouth.

His left hand trails down to my stomach, my body's flames following it. His mouth leaves mine, his kissing following his hand. I start wiggling beneath him and the feelings I'm having are escalating. What is that? I feel like I could explode at any moment. I've heard of orgasms, sure, but I have never had one. When he reaches the top of my pants, he looks up at me. "Are you still ok?" I can only nod because I can't seem to form words. He smiles and winks. "Still too many clothes on." As his lustful eyes burn into mine, he slowly begins to pull down my jogging pants only breaking our eye contact when he looks down to pull them all the way off. He throws them on the floor next to the bed. Crawling back over me, he begins his treacherous torture of his kissing trail until he is on my vagina. Oh, my God! Hurry, please hurry, I can't take much more! My head is tossing back and forth on my pillow while my hips inadvertently buck up against his mouth. He looks up at me and smiles a little nervously. "Are you sure you're still ok, baby?"

My body is squirming underneath him. "Jesse, please, please. More, I need more. Ugh!" His look changes immediately to driven lust and just as quickly his mouth is back where I need it, his tongue pressing and swirling on my needy clit. "Ahhhhh!!!!" I yell out, my heart racing so fast, it's about to beat out of my chest. Oh, my God that is so good. I feel like my entire body is on fire and when I look at Jesse my eyes are clouded and little spots are filling them. I'm falling, falling and falling into bliss. So that's what an orgasm feels like. I want more, oh so much more! But only with him. Now I crave his touch so much.

His gorgeous smile is wide. His eyes half closed as he looks up at me while he continues to kiss and suck. I feel his tongue delve inside me, and I moan so loud it should be embarrassing, but I'm not. Not at all. My body starts bucking up to his mouth, and we begin a rhythm. As I start heating up again, his finger pushes into me. "OHHHHH," I moan. I cannot even describe how I'm feeling right now. I had no idea it could be this exquisite.

He adds another finger inside me, then another, his talented mouth starts sucking on my throbbing clit and it sets me off again. My moans seem to echo in the room, and my hips are pressing so hard against his mouth and fingers. "Fuck! You have the sexiest look on your face, baby. God, you're beautiful." I watch through hazy eyes as he brings his fingers up to his mouth and sucks on them. "Hmmmm, that's the best thing I have ever tasted in my life. So sweet." His eyes are half closed as he looks at me telling me he is as heated as I am.

I lick my lips as I watch him crawl back up my body. He's so careful not to put his full weight on me. He leans down and kisses me hard! So hard, so good and I can taste myself on his tongue. We kiss for a few minutes, and then I pull back a bit.

"Um, babe?" He gives me a look of concern. "Now you have way too many clothes on," I smirk. He laughs and climbs off me then the bed. His clothes seem to fly off his body so fast you'd miss it if you blinked. I look at him in all his glory. He is utterly breathtaking. He has a very defined and chiseled chest, as well as toned and muscular arms. He must work out. I can see his forever tattoo on his arm, and I want to lick it. As my eyes rake slowly down his body, I stop on his engorged cock. Ok, that's just not a cock. It's freaking huge, and it is saluting me at this very minute, standing proud and very, very tall. When I look back up at his eyes, they are half-mast again and filled with desire. He stalks over to the bed, reaches to the nightstand, opens the drawer and pulls out a condom. Talk about being prepared.

Still looking down at me with so much desire, he rips the packet open with his teeth, removes the condom and shucks the wrapper over his shoulder. It lands somewhere behind him, adding to the mess of our clothes. I watch him roll the condom over his cock, slowly; all the while, he's watching me, and I lick my lips, slowly. I hope I am not drooling too much. Climbing into bed and over my body, he kisses me with abandonment. "I can't take it when you lick your lip like that. I want to eat it," he whispers as he leans back to look at me. Swoon! I'm dead!

His cock enters me slowly, oh so slowly. It's stretching me to no end, but oh, my God it's heavenly. "I'm not hurting you, am I?" He asks in concern. I shake my head wildly and push my body into him showing him just how much he is not hurting me. This action moves his cock into me further causing us to moan loudly in unison.

He watches me as he pushes his cock into me deeper and deeper until I don't think I can take him any further inside me. Oh was I wrong! He pulls out just a bit and then plunges into me hard! Ok, that was much deeper. "UGH," I moan deep and loud as I release the breath I was holding. My head moves back into the pillow until I'm looking up at the ceiling. My eyes close and a tear falls out running down into my hair. I'm so full of him that it's making me catch my breath, but God, I've never felt anything like it. I want more!

As I move my head back down and look into his half-mast eyes, he starts moving in and out of me, and I start moving with him until we are in total sync. We continue our wonderful dance together, then he takes his hand and his thumb and starts rubbing my clit. Oh, my God, I am going to lose it, and I want it to last. His thrusts get faster and faster while his thumb continues to rub my clit in time with his movements. My head goes back up, and I close my eyes. "OH, MY GOD, Jesssseeeeeeee!" I scream. I'm breathing so heavily, but I can't feel my body anymore. I think I may have blacked out. Totally. Blissed. Out!

He is soon to follow as he arches his back and looks up. "Cassie. Cassie. Cassie. BABY!" I watch his gorgeous face as his body shudders with its release. He collapses half on top of me and half on the bed. We're both breathing so hard, neither of us speaks. He looks into my eyes with love. Love? Yes, it is most definitely love this time. I just know it. I can feel it. Oh, my God, I hope I'm not wrong because I know I feel that way too. As I come down from my high and join the living again, he strokes my left cheek and gives me the sexiest look. "That was fucking amazing."

I giggle a little, but then get serious. "It was so much more. So much more." After giving me another kiss, he leaves me and goes into the bathroom. When he returns, he leans over and watches me as he presses something warm against my throbbing vagina. I have to close my eyes as he massages and cleans me. So sweet! He disposes of the cloth and climbs back in bed, envelopes me into his arms and rolls over on his left side pulling me with him. "Oh." I wince a little.

"Baby, are you ok? Damn, I wasn't thinking. Did I hurt you? I'm so sorry," he asks in alarm.

I snuggle into him deeper, look up at him and grin, "I'm fine. Just a little sore, but I am sore in a good way. The right way."

"Whew, ok sorry, I guess I got a little carried away," he says pressing his mouth to my head. He begins to rub circles into my back.

I whisper softly, "You saved me again." My beautiful savior. Wow, I could so get used to this. That was my last thought as I my heavy eyelids close and fall into a blissful slumber.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

When I awaken light is streaming in from the bay window. Rubbing my eyes, I yawn and then stretch. Carefully, I remove my arm from around Cassie, dig underneath all the scattered clothes on the floor and retrieve my boxers, put them on and head downstairs. I move quickly to make a tray full of breakfast goodies to take back upstairs to my sleeping angel. As I start to walk in the room, I'm stopped at the door when I see her body move, her arms stretching out, and then I hear the most beautiful sound. She starts giggling. "What's so funny?" Walking in all the way I set the tray down on the nightstand. I tried to think of everything I could to bring her and even made one of my roses out of paper, placed in a vase.

My body reacts instantly when I hear her sniffling, my head snapping to her in time to see a tear fall from her filled eyes. I move quickly and sit down next to her and cup her chin in my hand. Slowly, her beautiful eyes look up at me, and I catch the next tear that falls with my finger. "Baby, what's wrong? I'll never forgive myself if I hurt you. Did I? Please tell me."

Her eyes blink rapidly and more tears cascade down her sweet face and she sniffs again. "No, you didn't hurt me, Jesse. There is no way possible that you could. I just saw the tray of food, the rose and I just can't believe you did all that, for me. No one has ever done anything like that for me before. No one has.... Has cared for me before." She sniffs again as more tears fall.

"Oh, baby. You'd better get used to it because I'm gonna spoil the hell outta you." I rub her cheek, trying to wipe some of her tears away as they fall. I help her to sit up in the bed, and she pulls the sheet over her chest better. Still so shy. I think I love her even more. I pick up the tray and place it over her lap, then get up and walk over to the other side of the bed. Slowly, and carefully I climb in the bed trying not to knock the tray or its contents over, and I get as close to her as I can.

"So, did you actually make this rose yourself or was it around somewhere that I didn't see?" She asks, smiling at me deviously while popping a piece of bacon in her luscious mouth.

"Ha, thanks for the faith there, babe. Yes, I made that with my own two hands. My mom taught me how to make those when I was little." My mind wanders to the time when Mom first showed me how to make those and then when we would make them together.

"Wow, Jesse. It's amazingly beautiful and to think you made it yourself, for me. I will cherish it always." She leans over and kisses me, and I reciprocate immediately. It starts to get heated when she moves back. "Uh, uh, uh. Not yet." She gives me her beautiful smile and shakes her head. "Nourishment first, fun after." Her eyes give me a playful wink, and I give her my best pout.

After breakfast, she stretches out on the bed looking content and full. I take the tray and place it on the nightstand by my side of the bed, lay back down and roll over halfway on top of her. My fingers start playing with a strand of her hair, and I look into her eyes. "What are you thinking about so hard, baby?" She's too quiet, and it's making me nervous. "Ok. You're scaring me here." The look on my face has to be of fear because that's what I'm feeling now. Is she having second thoughts about what we did? Did I scare her back into her shell and the same feelings she had after being raped? God, I hope not!

"I was just thinking about how happy I am. Right now, right at this moment," she says with the biggest smile on her face. She looks at me, a single tear falling down her face, and she gasps and then wipes away the tear that's slowly creeping down my cheek. She quickly rolls over to me, grabs my face with her small hands and smashes her mouth to mine.
Seven

Later on that afternoon we decided to go down to the rec room and play pool. We laugh and have such a great time that we forget about everything for a while. "Babe, I hate to say this, but you suck at pool," he says with a cocky grin.

"Ha, ha, ha. Like I've ever played before today. Thanks a lot," I say with a pout. He lays down his pool cue and walks over to me on the other side of the pool table.

He puts his arms around my shoulders. "Awww, I'm sorry, baby. I'll teach you."

I duck under his arms and step back. "Then I'll be able to whoop your ass," I say laughing. He takes a step toward me, and I quickly turn and half run around the pool table. He starts chasing me around the table, but I can tell he's playing with me and hardly running because he knows I can't run very fast right now with my sore ribs.

As he catches up to me, he grabs me from behind and wraps his arms around me causing my arms to be trapped. We're both laughing so hard that we almost don't hear his phone ringing. We collect ourselves, and he reaches in the front pocket of his jeans and pulls out his satellite phone then turns so that his back is to me.

"Tyler. What? Fuck! No, go ahead and keep me posted. Hmm. No, he shouldn't do that. Why? Because it's too risky and he could be followed not to mention he could get himself killed. UGH! Ok, ok." As he hangs up, he turns his head and looks at me. "Um, that was Ty. Apparently my dad's on his way here. He tried to talk him out of coming, but he wants to meet you and find out what is going on." Fuck! Now is really not the time.

"Oh, kay. Is that really so bad, him coming here? I mean, since this is your family's safe house, wouldn't he know how to be careful in getting here without drawing attention?" I ask in confusion.

Jesse walks over to the bar, goes behind it and grabs a beer out of the refrigerator. He holds it up to me, and I nod. Walking over to the bar I sit on a stool as he opens the beer and sets it down in front of me. He looks up to the ceiling. "I'm just nervous about him being followed or worse killed trying to get here. You have to understand, when we used to come here it was to get away from the public not some bad guys trying to kidnap or kill people, so I'm not sure how careful he'll be. I just worry about him, that's all."

"You sound really close," I sigh and start peeling off the label from the beer bottle. "That must really be nice to have someone who loves you that much, wanting to be there for you."

My eyes look up to see him looking at me with a sad look on his face. "Baby, I'm so sorry that you haven't had that in your life. But that's going to change from now on. We're together now, right? I mean.... I mean.... I want us to be together." He leans over the bar and cups my face with his right hand, rubbing my cheek with his thumb.

I look in his loving blue eyes and sigh. "Jesse, I would love nothing more than for us to be together. I...." I stop myself. Oh, my God, I almost told him I loved him. It's too soon, and I might scare him off.

"You what, honey?" He asks, still gazing into my eyes.

"Um, I just love being with you." I smile widely. He walks around the bar, and I turn in my seat towards him. He grabs the sides of my face with both hands. "I.... Kiss. Love.... Kiss. Being.... Kiss. With.... Kiss. You.... Kiss. Too." Then he crushes his lips against mine, and I open my mouth invitingly.

After we make out for who knows how long and finally go upstairs, Jesse starts dinner. I grab a seat at the island counter and ask, "So when will your dad be here?" He turns around with a pan in his hand and turns his left arm over to look at his watch. "Oh, in about an hour. Probably in time for dinner."

I just about fall off my seat. "Oh, my God! I better go upstairs and clean up!" I'm yelling as I back out of the kitchen. While Jesse laughs at me, I turn and run up the stairs.

After I am all cleaned up, I head for the closet. Hmmmm, what to wear. I see a really pretty long sleeved pink dress, try it on and look in the bathroom mirror. The length hits me right above my knees. It has a fitted waist and a V neck that shows some of my cleavage but not too much. I would say I was blessed with C cup sized breasts, but with my really small frame, I think I look a little deformed. Maybe I do need to add a few pounds. As I look in the mirror, I take some strands of my hair and study them. Yes, I definitely need a trim and soon!

I start to make my way downstairs and stop at the top of the stairs when I hear voices. Men's voices. They aren't whispering, but they aren't very loud either. My heart begins to race, and I start to breathe heavy. Ill-fated memories start sweeping through my mind. They're so real it's like I'm there again. I grab hold of the railing with my right hand and squeeze it tight, trying to hold myself up. My legs feel weak as I relive those vile men's voices from before.

"Well, I don't know, Dad. She's probably still getting ready," Jesse says as he comes towards the stairs, with a man following beside him. Jesse stops and looks up at me. I can see him and hear him, but it's like I'm frozen, scared to move. He gets a panicked look on his face and races up the stairs until he is standing on the step right below me. He cups my face and speaks very gently. "Cassie. Baby, are you ok? You're white as a ghost. What is it? What's wrong?"

My eyes close, squeeze tightly and when I open them, he looks scared to death. "I.... I.... I'm ok." I force a tight smile on my face and take a deep breath. "I didn't know your dad had gotten here already."

Turning his head, he looks at his dad and then back at me. "I'm sorry. I should have come up and told you he was here." His hands are on my upper arms, rubbing up and down. "I'm sorry if we scared you, baby," he whispers.

I take another deep breath. "No, I'm fine. Really. And you didn't need to come up and tell me. I'm being silly. I just heard men's voices and.... Well, I should have known it was you. Is it time to eat?" I put on a bigger smile now, but he keeps searching my eyes.

"You're sure you're ok?" He asks skeptically reaching up and putting his hand on my cheek.

I laugh a little and cover his hand with mine. "Really, I'm fine. Let's go down. I want to meet your dad." He looks into my eyes for a few more seconds and then nods, then turns and holds his left hand out for me. Smiling, I take his hand and we walk down the stairs together.

Once we reach his dad, Jesse introduces us with pride in his voice. "Dad, this is Cassie Morelli. Cassie this is my dad, Thomas Mitchell."

Thomas reaches for my right hand and holds it in his. He brings it up to his lips and kisses the top of my hand, looking up at me the whole time. Ok, that's a little awkward, but sweet.

His dad's hair is darker, cut short and is parted to the side. He has brown eyes but are light in color. "So glad to meet you, Cassie. I can't say I have heard very much about you," he says, turning his head and smirking at Jesse. He returns his head back to me and smiles. "But I hope to get to know the person that my son has brought to our safe house and is, how shall I say this.... Protecting?"

Ok, this doesn't sound too good. He doesn't seem very happy that I am here. "Um, thank you? It's nice to meet you too," I say apprehensively.

Thomas quickly lets go of my hand and turns towards Jesse. Rubbing his hands together, he says, "Well, what's for dinner? I am famished."

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

We are eating a wonderful pasta dish with a lemon-garlic sauce, French bread and salad. Taking a drink of my water, I swallow and turn to Dad. "So, Dad, what brings you here?"

Dad sets his fork down on his plate and looks at Cassie and then at me. "Well, I just thought I would come to see my son. I haven't seen or heard from you much in the last six months or so. I wanted to see how you are, and I heard from your sister that you had something secret going on. I'm sad that you didn't feel you could let your dad in on it. Alexa said she did some shopping for this little trip, for you and she thought you might be in some kind of trouble." Dammit, Allie. You are so gonna hear about this.

"Um, wow, Dad. Way to cut to the chase." I can't help but roll my eyes. "I guess had I wanted you to know what I was doing, I would have called you. But I don't think this is the right time for this conversation, do you?" My brows raise high, and I give him a glare.

Dad looks at Cassie and coughs in his hand. "No, you're right, son. Now is not the right time. But I do expect to be brought up to speed before the evening is over. May I ask which room I'll be using while I am here?"

I shift in my seat, feeling uncomfortable. "You can use my room since Cassie's staying in the master bedroom."

"Very well." He then turns his attention to Cassie. "So, Cassie, how old are you and what is it that you do?" She looks at me nervously. "I'm.... Um.... I'm 20. I'll be 21 in a couple of months and I work at a Café in a small town in Kansas."

Dad looks at me, raises one brow and then back at Cassie. "Well, that's lovely, dear." Looking back at me he adds, "Being that Jesse is almost 27, I'd say there's a little age difference, hmmm?" His brow is still raised high and now he's smirking at me. What the fuck?

Anger is boiling inside me, and I'm about to explode. "Dad, didn't you want to rest a bit from your trip?" My teeth are gritted, and I give him my pissed off look.

Dad slides his chair back, stands and looks at Cassie. "A pleasure to meet you, Cassie. I think I will go lay down for a bit." He then turns to me. "I will talk to you after I am rested. If you will both excuse me." He bows at Cassie and leaves the room. We both just sit there in shocked silence.

"Well, that was a nice dinner," she says smiling at me.

I laugh. "Ha, yes, really nice. I'm sorry, Cassie. I hate that he made you uncomfortable. Does it bother you that I am that much older than you?" Damn, I hope not. I never once thought about our age difference. It doesn't matter to me, but what if it does to her? I've fallen in love with her and can't live without her now, but I want her to be happy.

She looks at me and smirks. "You're not THAT much older than me." We both start laughing and then finish eating in peace.

When we're done Cassie gathers up the dishes and starts to take them over to clean up. "I think I'll just clean up and then head upstairs. I'm pretty tired and maybe that will give you all a chance to talk without me around." She begins to wash off the plates and bends over to load the dishwasher.

I walk over and put my arms around her waist and she stands up, leaning her back against my chest and laying her head on my shoulder. I whisper in her ear. "I'm sorry, baby. I knew it would be awkward, but I didn't know he would try to start anything in front of you. He doesn't understand why I am so passionate about finding Mom's killers. He wanted me to let it go a long time ago. But I can't. I have to make them pay, Cassie. I have to do it for my mom."

She quickly turns around placing her hands on my arms, searching my eyes. "Shhh, it's ok, Jesse. I understand." Bending down I press my mouth against hers. Her eyes close as I kiss her gently. Even after my mouth is gone her eyes remain closed for a brief moment. Like she's savoring my kiss. When she slowly opens them, they are glimmering. Moving my arms to her shoulders, I pull her close to me and hold her tightly. We stand there holding each other for a long time.

My mouth draws to her ear. "I love you, Cassie." She pushes her face into my chest, her arms sliding around my neck and her fingers into my hair. This feels so good, so right. I don't want us to move, ever.

She slowly brings her face away from me, looks up and into my eyes. I'm concerned when I see she has tears in her beautiful eyes that are threatening to fall. Bringing her hand to the side of my face, she strokes my skin tenderly. "Jesse, I love you too." She lifts up on her toes and kisses me so hard I can feel her passion, matching it with my own. I don't know how long we stood there kissing, but I end up moving away and press my forehead against hers trying to give us a time to catch our breaths. She loves me. I can't believe this beautiful and sweet girl loves me.

I lean back, push some of her hair out of her face and take her hands in mine. "Why don't you let me help you clean up so you can go rest? The sooner my dad comes down to chat with me the better, then maybe he'll leave tomorrow and we can have more time to ourselves." I start waggling my eyebrows at her.

"Ha!" She laughs, pushing my shoulder playfully. We head over to the sink and work together finishing the dishes. "Jesse? Why do you have a different last name than your dad?" I turn to her and frown. She looks down at the floor immediately. "I'm sorry. It's none of my business."

I shake my head rapidly. "No, no! It's ok. You just caught me off guard." I lean against the counter and she mirrors my position against the center island. "My mom and my birth father divorced when I was about three. I really don't remember him at all. After the divorce, he never came around. Mom and Thomas married a couple of years later and I've always called him dad. He's always been pretty strict but he's also always loved me so I've had a really good life. Allie is his daughter from a previous marriage, but we grew up together and are really close." I give her a genuine smile as I remember some of the fun times I had with Allie in our younger days.

She pushes away from the counter and walks over to me, kissing me on my cheek. "You're so fortunate to have had a loving home to grow up in. I envy you."

I stop what I'm doing and turn to her. "Baby, I love you. I'm gonna make you so happy you won't remember what you missed out on." I give her a kiss me on her cheek and then rub against her smooth skin with my thumb. "Now go up and have a good rest."
Eight

Once I'm in my room and have changed into some pajamas, I walk over to the bookshelf by the bay window and look through the books hoping to find something good to read. My eyes land on a romance novel, so I take it and curl up on the couch, turn the small lamp on next to me and begin to read. I love a good romance, used to read them all the time, but haven't gotten to in so long. It wasn't long that my eyes began to get heavy until I couldn't keep them open anymore. I must have fallen asleep because loud screaming wakes me up. Sitting up, startled I look around finding no one in the room but me. The screaming grows louder, so I get up and go to the bedroom door and open it far enough so I hear better.

I jump when I hear Thomas yell. "You have no right to do that! What in the hell were you thinking? You're not a cop. You're no FBI agent and you certainly aren't CIA. You can't officially do anything once they're caught either. Oh, my.... If your mother knew you were doing this she would HATE IT! I mean it, Jesse! You need to stop this NOW, stop it before someone gets hurt or worse killed! Like you!" His screaming amplifies and I'm worried about Jesse. Should I go down there or stay put and mind my own business? I start biting my fingernail nervously trying to make a decision. Suddenly, everything stopped. It's eerily quiet, too quiet. Finally, I hear Jesse talking, but his voice is too low to understand what he is saying.

Then I hear footsteps coming towards the stairs, so I shut the door quietly until it's almost closed and stop when I hear Thomas. "Jesse, I'm leaving in the morning. If you keep on, if you continue this, I'm done with you. Do you hear me? Or do you even care?" He's not yelling, but he sure is talking loudly.

"I care, Dad. I love you and Allie. You're my life and always will be. What is it gonna take to make you understand that I have to do this for Mom? Doesn't she deserve to have them pay for what they did? And Cassie? Doesn't she deserve for them to be put away for what they did to her? Shouldn't there be some kind of justice done?" Jesse's calmer, but in a serious tone.

"I hear what you're saying, son, I do. But why you? Why do you have to be the one to do this, to put your life in danger? Is it worth your life? Is it worth the other lives around you, people you love? Think about that, will you?" Thomas asks sympathetically.

I shut the door completely, before I get caught and get into bed. It takes me a long time to fall asleep.

I stretch my arms up towards the headboard and notice I must have slept in by the light coming through the blinds of the windows. When I look at the other side of the bed, I'm disappointed to see it's empty and still made from yesterday. I guess he didn't come to bed last night, not in here anyway. Yawning, I get up, go to the closet, slip on my robe and quietly go downstairs. When I walk into the living room, I find Jesse asleep on the couch and as my eyes move to the coffee table I notice a Jack Daniel's bottle that's almost empty. Sigh. My poor Jesse. Unconsciously, I start biting my fingernail and look around the room and see an Afghan on the chair. I walk over and get it and cover him up, tucking the ends around him. I stand there and just watch him sleep and can't get over how young he looks in his slumber. My heart hurts for him.

The thought of making him a really good breakfast hits me, but as I turn to go into the kitchen I bumped into something hard. "Omph!" Rubbing my head, I look up and see a small woman standing there and scream! "Jesssseeeeeeee, Jesse," I yell as I turn and start to run over to the couch as he jumps up starts running towards me, his hand holding his head like he's in pain. I almost tackle him, wrap my arms around him and hold on tightly around his slim waist.

"Shhh, baby. It's ok. Everything's fine. It's my.... Um.... Sister!" He says, shaking his head. I half turn in his arms and look at the woman before us. She's looking at me while rubbing her head. She looks to be a couple of inches shorter than me, with hair color like Jesse's, and it flows down to her breasts. Her eyes are green, like mine, but are much darker. She's really quite beautiful.

"Um. Hi, Jesse," she says as she raises her right hand slightly and waves, a small smile and a confused look on her face. She looks at me and smiles.

"Allie, what are you doing here?" He looks around. "And why in the hell didn't the alarm go off?"

She looks at him and smirks. "Well, I can't tell you why your damn alarm didn't go off silly, but I came to warn you that Dad is coming here, like soon!"

Jesse looks at me and then back to her and looks really angry. He releases his hold on me and pushes his fingers into his temples and rubs. "Quit yelling. I have a headache and.... You're a little late for that! He got here last night and left in a gruff this morning. Thanks a lot for the warning."

Allie looks down at the floor and then back at Jesse and me. "Oops! Sorry, I left as soon as I found out. Guess I was a little late."

"Ya think?" Jesse scowls at her. His mood hasn't changed too much since last night. Not a good sign. He continues to rub his temples, closes his eyes and winces.

She notices the bottle of Jack on the table. "Is that the reason for your headache and why you're so bitchy?" Her stance changes, her hand on her hip and one brow raised.

"What do you think?" He huffs, his eyes still closed.

She's still standing in the same position, brow still raised and scowls at him. "Well? Aren't you going to introduce us already? How rude?" She starts tapping her foot. "Well?"

Jesse puts his arm around my shoulder, pulling me against him. "Alexa, this is Cassie." He looks down at me and smiles. "Cassie, this is Alexa, my older sister."

I smile at him and leave his arms to walk over to her with my right hand extended. "Hi, Alexa. I'm Cassie Morelli. I'm very happy to meet you." Geez, I hope she isn't like her dad.

Instead of taking my hand, she grabs me into a big hug. Oh, my! She pulls back with a big grin on her face. "Hi, Cassie, please call me Allie. Only my dad calls me Alexa and I hate it. It's nice to meet you too." She looks at Jesse and smirks. "And I'm only three years older than you, twerp." When she turns back to me her full smile is back in place but then she frowns. "I hope Dad wasn't too rough on you guys," she says, looking between Jesse and me.

Jesse walks over to us and puts his arm around my waist. As I put my arm around him, I look up at him and smile. "Oh, Dad was Dad. You know how he is. He was the way he always is with me, and he wasn't nice to Cassie at all. I got so pissed off after he went to bed that I drank until I passed out on the couch. Does that tell you anything?" He's looking at Allie like he's still mad. "I didn't even hear him leave this morning and obviously, he left without resetting the alarm. Dammit!" Yep, definitely still mad. I'm so uncomfortable right now.

"Um, why don't I go make us some breakfast?" I start to move to head to the kitchen. "Maybe you all can talk a bit until I have it ready." I give them a smile, hoping to escape their sibling talk. I definitely think they need some time. "I'll holler at you when it's time to eat." I give Jesse's waist a squeeze and walk out of the room.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

"So, you drank a lot last night, huh?" She looks at me and notices I'm rubbing my temples again. "Look I'm sorry I didn't get to you before Dad got here but I tried." Her cutesy smile is on her face, that smile she always gives me when she's trying to suck up.

So I roll my eyes and put my arm around her, smile as we start towards the kitchen. "Ya know. I'm still trying to find my signed baseball bat that you stole from me." She punches me in the arm, her mouth open and her eyes wide.

"No, you took that from me, you meanie." Allie gives me another punch in the arm, and I give her a playful shove as we walk into the kitchen. "Well, you took it from me first and it was mine in the first place, you thief!" We both start laughing at each other, but she stops abruptly and stares at the kitchen table.

"Geez, are you planning on feeding an army? Look at all the food. I'm in heaven!" She looks at Cassie, smiles and winks at her while making her way to the table.

"Um, yeah, I guess I did get a bit carried away. But I wasn't sure what you liked," Cassie shrugs and smiles.

I look around at the food on the table. Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, toast, fruit, waffles and pancakes. I can't help but stifle my chuckle. My girl is the greatest! Well, at least Allie should like something out of that! What am I thinking, she loves everything there.

We all sit down and start digging in. "Oh, my God this is fabulous," Allie mumbles with a mouth full of food.

Looking over at Cassie, I can see the look of apprehension on her face. "Wow, so you're a great cook too, huh? Maybe we need to trade off with the cooking detail." I wink at her and her body immediately relaxes, the beautiful smile I love appears. I smile back and wink then look at Allie. "So, how long are you planning on staying, sis?"

Allie looks a little uncomfortable and squirms in her seat. "Ah, well, I'm not quite sure. I told the office I was taking a week of vacation soooo, I was hoping to stay for a while?"

I look over at Cassie, and she shrugs her shoulders and nods. "I think it would be great if you stayed. I would love to get to know you better," she says smiling sweetly at Allie.

I really wanted to spend more time with Cassie alone. Our relationship is just beginning and she seems to be getting more and more relaxed around me, but maybe this is good too, being around another girl, someone she doesn't know. Maybe this is even better. We have plenty of time. Damn, it's gonna be hard not having her to myself though. "I'm ok with that. I haven't seen you in so long. Can't wait to catch up."

Allie is jumping in her seat. "Awesome! I was hoping you would say that. And, ya know. It's your fault we haven't seen each other in so long, with you running all over the country looking for these guys. Geez, it's a wonder you haven't been killed by now you jackass!" She reaches over and punches me in the shoulder.

I give her my best smirk and when I look at Cassie, she's looking at Allie with a sad smile on her beautiful face. "What's wrong, baby?" I ask with my own frown.

She gives me a half-smile. "Oh, nothing. I just love seeing how much you love each other. It's sweet." I reach over and squeeze her shoulder lovingly.

We finish eating and we all pitch in to clean up, then head to the living room. I take a seat on the couch and Allie sits on the oversized chair. I look at them and clear my throat. "Girls, I am gonna go into the office and do a little work while you all chat." Then look into my girls eyes. "If that's ok with you, baby?"

Allie sighs looking at me and then Cassie. "Ah! Baby, too sweet!"

Cassie smiles and giggles at Allie, then she turns her head to me. "Sure, babe. That's cool."

Giving Allie a smirk, I lean down to Cassie and give her a soft kiss on her head before walking towards the office. "I won't be too long, I promise," I yell over my shoulder.
Nine

"So, what do you do for a living, Allie?" I ask as we settle in. She looks over at me and smiles.

"Well, right now I am managing my dad's office, but I really, really want to be an author. I have been writing stories for several years. I just haven't had the extra time to try to publish them." An author, nice! I admire her for wanting to follow her dream.

"Wow, how cool! I would love to read one. What kind of stories are they?" I ask eagerly. She squirms in her seat and seems a little uneasy.

She clears her throat and then gives me a smile. "They're romance stories. They are a mixture of erotica, romance and suspense. That's why I have never shared my passion with Jesse or especially my dad. Oh, my God, my dad would absolutely disown me on the spot if he knew!"

I giggle. "Well, I'll never tell him. I think he hates me anyway, at least it feels like it by the way he acted towards me last night." I sigh. Yeah, definitely didn't start off on the right foot. But that's my life. I should be used to it by now.

Allie looks at me apologetically. "Oh, it's not you, Cassie, I'm sure! He's just a stubborn man who hates what Jesse has been doing and just taking it out on you guys. He really means well, he's just worried."

"Why is he so upset about Jesse trying to find his mom's killers? I mean, I know it's dangerous, and I seriously get that it's putting him and you all in danger, but at then I think Jesse's passion for this is admirable. It seems like maybe he has to do this to get closure?"

Allie sighs and takes a deep breath. "I know, I know. I'm really torn about it. I know Jesse feels he needs to do this, but at the same time, I'm so worried about him. I don't think I could take it if anything were to happen to him. We're so close, but I get where he's coming from. My mother is no saint and we aren't close at all. I felt more loved by Claire, Jesse's mom, than I do my own mom, but he's been at this for two years now, so much time has gone by. I hardly ever get to see him and he doesn't talk much on the phone." She sighs again and shakes her head. "I just miss him."

"So, what does Jesse work on in there?" I ask as I tilt my head towards the office. Allie looks over to the office.

"Sorry, that's really for him to tell you, I think. And I am sure he will. By the sounds of it you both seem to be getting really close." I can feel my face heating up and know that it's turning all kinds of red right now. She smiles at me, and I relax. I really like her. She's so warm and friendly. I feel like we could be really good friends.

"Fair enough." I smile back. She bends over in her seat and puts her hands on her knees. "So, tell me about you guys. You're really hitting it off, huh?" She smiles deviously at me.

I smile widely. "Um, yeah. Um, Allie? I know I don't know you or Jesse, for that matter, very well yet but I'm falling in love with him. Is that crazy after such a short time with him? I just.... I just can't help the way I feel."

I jump in my seat when Allie squeaks, "Squeeeeee!!!! Oh, my God! I'm so excited and happy for you both! Jesse's a great guy and will make you so happy!" She jumps up and grabs me into a big hug knocking me back into the couch. Wow! Um, kay.... That went well.

"And no, I don't think that's crazy at all. I think anyone can fall in love fast, if it's the right person. Why do you think I write romance stories?" She beams.

At that moment, Jesse walks into the room while Allie starts squealing loudly again and hugging me to where I can't breathe. "Are you all okay?" He asks with a perplexed look on his face.

Allie drops me and runs over to Jesse and slams into him, pushing him back slightly. "Oh, my God, Jesse! I'm so happy for you guys!"

He starts laughing and looks my way. "Um, baby? What's she talking about?"

I stand up and walk over to them and smile shyly at him. "Well, I kind of told her we are together and she just sort of went crazy." Sort of? That's an understatement.

He starts laughing harder. "Ah, I see. Well, you're getting to know my sister rather quickly, aren't you? She gets a little excited pretty easily." A little? Wonder what his opinion is of 'a lot' excited.

Allie finally lets Jesse go and comes and stands by me, grabbing my hand. "We're gonna be the best of friends. We'll spend hours getting to know each other, having sleepovers, girl nights and we will have soooo much fun!" She's looking at me and smiling so big. She really is beautiful.

"Ahem, so you're saying that Cassie and I really won't have much time together because you will be monopolizing all her time? Yeah, I don't think so," Jesse says, smirking at her.

Allie laughs. "Nah, I'll let you have plenty of time with your girl, after I leave and maybe, just maybe, a little time while I am here." She smiles at me and squeezes my waist.

"Gee, thanks, sis," he says with a frown on his face, then walks over to the other side of me and puts his arm around my waist, kissing the top of my head. The warm fuzzies inside of me just went crazy. I feel so loved right now, like I'm already part of their family. I can't describe the feelings I have right now. My heart is erupting with happiness. Well, except for their dad. My body shivers.

We spend the day talking about everything. I told her about my life growing up, The Sweet Café, my friends there and how I miss them so much. She tells me about how she hates her job and how some day she'll get the guts to leave it and follow her dream of writing. I admire her so much right now.

"When this is all over, I'd really like for you and Jesse to come meet my friends at the Café. You will love them and I know they'll love you too. They're really the only true family I have," I say eagerly. Damn! That reminds me! I really need to call Stella. What is wrong with me? I guess falling in love has clouded my mind a little.

Jesse scoots closer to me on the couch, puts his arm around me and squeezes. "We are your family too now, baby. Don't ever forget that." He kisses me on my cheek, and I melt.

"Yes, we are and there's no getting rid of us," Allie says matter of factly.

Later that evening, Allie stands, yawns loudly and stretches. "Well, I am bushed. I think I'll go clean up and hit the hay. Sleep tight and I'll see ya in the morning." She comes over and gives us both quick kisses on our cheeks.

After Allie has gone upstairs, Jesse pulls me closer and begins kissing me all over my face. My forehead. My eyes. My cheeks. "Hmmmm, let's go upstairs and get to know each other even better," he says as he continues his homage to my face.

I wiggle a little, my heart already beating faster and my face getting heated. "Uh, um. Oh! Yes, um, okay," I say incoherently.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

We make our way upstairs, I back into the door as I close it, looking at Cassie standing by the bed. I can see the lust in her gleaming eyes from here, and that's just making my body react even more. I'm already starting to breathe heavy as I stalk over to her. She takes a step back and hits the bed as I stand in front of her. She looks up at me. I bend down and start kissing her, pushing her onto the bed until I'm lying on top of her. Our tongue's dance together, my hand works its way up until I cup her breast, squeezing and kneading it and then move to the other one to give it equal attention. As I pinch her nipple, her head falls back and the sexiest moan escapes from her mouth. I take that opportunity to suck on her exposed neck, causing her to lean her head to the side to give me more of her perfect skin to feast on. I make my way from there to her collarbone and whisper, "You have too many clothes on again."

She pushes gently against my chest until I move off of her and out of the bed. She follows me and we remove our clothes hastily, jumping back into bed laughing. It doesn't take me long to move back into my previous position, my hands cupping her face all while looking into her eyes. "You are the most beautiful woman, inside and out. I'm so glad I found you. I'm never letting you go." I feel the tears forming in my eyes and see they are in hers too. God, I love her!

She grabs my face, pulling me to her and crushes her lips against mine. As we kiss, I begin fondling her breast, tweaking the nipple making it peak quickly. She lets out a deep moan into my mouth. My hand leaves her breast moving over her flat stomach and reaches her sweet pussy, which is already soaking wet. My cock twitches as my hand rubs up and down, her juices starting to coat my fingers. Her hips begin to buck as my thumb finds her swollen clit and starts rubbing circles and pressing down making her body shudder in response. I watch her eyes closely. Her head falls back into the pillow as her thighs clinch against my legs.

"Ugh.... Jesse. More.... Please more. Ugh," she groans as her body begins wiggling underneath me, a sign she's getting close to her climax. She reaches down, taking my engorged and still as hell cock in her hand and rubs her thumb over the head, wiping off the semen that has seeped from the tip. Then her hand moves down my shaft, squeezing and then back up. Fuck! I'm gonna blow before I can get inside her.

My moan leaves my mouth. My half-mast eyes look at hers and find them full of desire. "Ah, baby, you're gonna make me come too soon. I want to be inside you when I come and I want us to come together." I reach over to the nightstand, get a condom out and rip it open with my teeth. I push myself down her body until I'm in between her legs and sit up halfway, sheathing my cock quickly. Looking down at her beautiful body, I slide a finger into her, then two, stretching her and curling them up until I find the spot that sets her off.

"OHHHH, my God! That feels so good!" She moans, closes her eyes and bucks into my hand.

Her muscles clench around my fingers telling me she's getting close. I remove them and move up, take my now pulsing cock into my hand and position it at her entrance and slowly move inside her. She opens her eyes, looking right into my soul. We fit perfectly together and start moving into a rhythm that only we can. My mouth covers her perk nipple, and I begin to suck, nip and pull until the next moan leaves her luscious mouth. Her muscles start to clamp around my cock telling me she's getting ready to climax so I begin moving faster.

"Come for me, baby. Come with me," I whisper and that's all it took. Her muscles clench around me so hard as she yells out my name over and over. I push into her and stay there as I moan her name loudly when my climax hits me hard. My body collapses on her, but I move over quickly, careful not to hurt her as I breathe heavily on her neck. "Baby, you're incredible! I'm the luckiest man on this earth."

She rests her head against mine and sighs. "I love you, Jesse. I'm the lucky one." I look up as she moves hers back and my lips press against hers in response.

Kissing her again quickly I get up and start walking to the bathroom. "Don't move. I want my place back as soon as I get us cleaned up." Grabbing a washcloth, I run the water until it's warm, wet the washcloth, and then I take the wet cloth into the bedroom, sitting next to her on the bed. "Open those beautiful legs for me, baby." She smiles and moves them apart, and I press wet and warm cloth against her, cleaning her up from our lovemaking.

"Mmmmm, that feels great, babe," she moans as I linger a bit too long with my washing.

Once I finish cleaning her up I clean myself and drop the cloth onto the floor, crawl into bed and pull her into my arms. She lays her head on my chest, her leg over mine and starts rubbing circles on my skin over my heart. I watch as her eyes become heavy, and as she closes them, I kiss her head and whisper, "I love you, Cassie. I always will. You have saved me too."
Ten

I awaken the next morning yawning and stretching, noticing my ribs aren't as sore. Maybe it's the workout I am getting. Laughing to myself, I then realize I haven't had any nightmares the last couple of nights either. Maybe I'm healing in more ways than one. Turning my head, I see Jesse's side of the bed is empty, so I do what any other girl in love would do and turn over to his pillow and sniff. It smells of my Jesse. Yum! I could bottle that scent, sell it and make a fortune! I shake my head internally. Nah, I want to keep that all for myself.

My bladder is about to explode, and as I walk to the bathroom, I feel a little bit of soreness in between my legs. What a great feeling though. I look at myself in the mirror and can see a definite glow about me this morning. My cheeks are tinted pink. My lips have the freshly kissed look to them and oh, my God, I have sex hair. I quickly get my brush and start working on it. Dangit! I need a trim so badly!

Quickly, I get dressed and make my way downstairs and hear Jesse and Allie talking in the kitchen as I get closer. When I walk in I find Jesse cooking breakfast while Allie sits at the table. Her hair is piled up on top of her head. Her left leg is crossed over her right, swinging it as she talks. She grabs a piece of bacon from the plate on the table and takes a bite. "I love her, Jesse. She's beautiful, sweet, and genuine. I could just go on and on and on."

"Please go on," I say with a big grin on my face.

Allie sits up straight and drops her bacon onto her plate. "Oh, um, Cassie. Morning!" Her face brightening with a smile. Laughing I walk over to Jesse, and he bends down to kiss me, holding a spatula over the skillet with eggs cooking. Then I walk over and sit across from Allie, grabbing a piece of bacon and stuffing it in my mouth, looking at her smiling the whole time.

"Sorry, didn't mean to interrupt. Please, continue," I say with my mouth full.

Allie smirks at me playfully and continues to eat. "I was just telling Jesse how much I'm enjoying my time here. I might not want to leave." She laughs and pops another piece of bacon in her mouth.

Jesse walks over with a bowl of scrambled eggs, toast, jelly and sausage. He places them on the table and sits next to me then leans over and gives me a very welcome good morning kiss. Allie clears her throat. Ok, maybe we kissed a little longer than the usual good morning kiss.

"Even though I thoroughly enjoyed the night time activities I heard last night, can you guys please at least refrain a little in front of me?" She says with a grin. Oops! I didn't realize we had been that loud last night. I turn a million shades of red when I look at her. "Aw, don't be embarrassed, Cassie. I'm so happy for you and Jesse, truly I am! I love you being a new addition to our family and now I have the sister I always wanted." Her smile is contagious, and I can't keep myself from doing it too.

"So, what are you girls going to do today? I have to head into town and get a few supplies." Jesse looks at me from the corner of his eyes. "Do either of you need anything?"

I look at him and mouth 'What?' and he shrugs. What is that all about? Allie and I let him know that we don't need anything and continue to eat.

I tell them I'll clean up so Allie goes upstairs to get dressed. Jesse helps me with the dishes and while he's gathering some from the table I walk over to him and whisper, "What was that all about? Why did you look at me that way?"

He puts his arms around me. "I, um, think I need to get a couple of pregnancy tests. Remember Dr. Moore says that you should take more tests to make sure you're not pregnant. We want to make sure, right?" Shit! Being so wrapped up in our bubble of happiness I'd completely forgotten about that. Now I'm scared and nervous again. What will happen if I am pregnant? Will he still want me? I just know something is going to ruin this for us. Maybe I'm not meant to be happy.

I look up at him, my eyes wet with tears. "Oh, my God, Jesse. What if I am? I could never, ever get rid of it. I know I couldn't do that. But.... But what about us? What will happen to us?" My voice is shaking and my body shudders.

His hand wipes away the tear that is sliding down my cheek. "Baby, shhhh, it will all be ok. If you are, we will deal with it. I am not going anywhere. I love you. And if you are pregnant, then I will love the baby as much as I do you. Shhhh, don't worry." He kissed my forehead, his lips lingering there, and I close my eyes, my body relaxing in relief.

A couple of hours later, Jesse leaves us to go into town, showing us how to arm the alarm and making us promise to set it when he leaves. Allie and I spend the time talking and getting to know each other. She talks about her and Jesse's childhood, and I talk about getting back to my friends at the Café.

"Um, if you don't want to talk about this you don't have to, but what happened Cassie? Why did those men have you?" She asks me with a sad look.

My hands are fidgeting as I look at her. She has such concern in her eyes. I am starting to love her like a sister and a best friend. Can I tell her? Will she feel differently about me after she knows what happened? Do I take that chance?

Taking a deep breath I tell her everything, not leaving out any details. I tell her about how Jesse is my savior and not only did he save me from the men who kidnapped me, but he has saved me from my life of loneliness and unhappiness. I'm crying by the time I get done. She immediately gets up, sits next to me on the couch and envelopes me in a hug and cries with me. We sit there crying and hugging for the longest time. By the time we pull back, I'm sniffling and hiccuping. She reaches over to the end table, grabs a couple of Kleenex's and hands me one, wiping her eyes with another one. "Oh, Cassie. You have to be the bravest person I've ever met. I'm so sorry that happened to you and the life you've had to endure."

"Jesse is getting pregnancy tests because there is still a chance I could be pregnant." The waterworks start again and I just can't seem to stop. "Jesse told me he didn't care if I was, he would still love me and the baby." Now, I am bawling.

She hugs me again and holds me tight. "Of course he will and so will I. He loves you, sweetie." I'm crying harder now. What did I do to deserve these wonderful people's love? I never thought I would have this, that I would feel this. I feel so blessed right now. We both pull back and she wipes some tears off my face with her tissue. "Why don't you go upstairs and lie down for a little while? Hmmm? Jesse should be home pretty soon and if you're still asleep, I'll make sure he comes to you, ok?" She says, patting my knee.

"Are you sure you don't mind? I hate just leaving you down here alone," I ask still wiping my eyes.

She shakes her head at me. "No, of course I don't mind. Go ahead. I'll be fine. Jesse won't be much longer." She pats my knee.

I nod at her and slowly walk to the stairs, turning my head to her. "If you need me, come wake me up. Promise?"

She nods at me. "I promise. Now, go get some rest."

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Finally, I get back from the store, the damn drive takes about half hour as it is just to get there, and then I couldn't find everything I was looking for. I come into the house only to find out that Allie and Cassie had a great talk, but I wish I had been here. Allie said Cassie got pretty upset and was lying down for a bit. By the time I get everything put away, Allie and I sit at the kitchen table, her drinking coffee and me a beer when we hear screaming from upstairs. I stand up so fast I knock over the chair and run up the stair two at a time. Bolting into Cassie's room, I don't stop until I'm sitting on the bed, and I start shaking her. "Cassie, baby, wake up! Honey, shhhh, wake up. It's just a dream. I'm here now, shhhh." Her eyes open slowly, her face full of confusion, but she lets me pull her up and into my arms, holding her tight.

She seems really out of it. "Um, what happened?" She chokes out.

I move back a bit and search her eyes. "You were having a bad dream. Allie told me you told her everything that happened to you. I think that may have caused your bad dream. Can you remember anything?" I stroke her cheek while she gathers her thoughts.

Shaking her head, she closes her eyes. "Um, yeah, it was the same nightmare I was having before. It felt so real, like it was happening all over again." She pushes her face into my chest, her arms wrapping around my neck. I place my hand on the back of her head, stroking her hair over and over trying to soothe her.

Allie comes racing into the bedroom and skids to a stop right before she hits the bed. "Oh, my God, Cassie! Are you ok? You were screaming so loud!" She yells.

Still holding Cassie tight, I look over at Allie. "She's ok, sis. Just a nightmare, she'll be ok in a bit." Allie reaches over and rubs her back, and Cassie digs her head deeper into my chest.

Allie whispers, "It's ok, Cassie. We both love you, remember that, we love you and we're here for you." She quietly leaves the room.

Cassie looks up at me. "I'm sorry. I feel like that's all you do is take care of me. I don't mean for you to have to do that so much." She sniffles.

I cup her face with my hands. "Don't ever feel that way, baby. I'll always take care of you. I love caring for you. I love you. Don't ever forget that. I think talking about it today with Sis put it all in your head again." I kiss her forehead, and can tell she's beginning to calm down.

"I hate to bring this up but do you feel like taking one of these tests now? I really think you should do one today and then maybe take another in a few days. I bought several. I know the doctor said in a couple of weeks, but I want this to be behind you." I kiss her softly.

She moves back from me, and I brush the hair out of her eyes. "I'm ok. Thanks for getting those for me. I'll go take one and be downstairs in a few minutes, ok?" She gives me a small, sad smile.

"Ok, but are you sure you don't want me to stay up here with you? Moral support?" She shakes her head, her smile getting bigger.

"I think I need to do this on my own. But thank you." She gives me a hug, squeezing me tight then gets up from the bed. I hesitate about leaving her, but I know that she wants to do this alone. As I walk towards the door, I look over my shoulder and watch her walk into the bathroom.

When I walk into the kitchen I see Allie sitting at the table and drinking coffee. I head to the fridge, grab a Coke and sit down at the table next to her. She looks at me, her face showing all the sadness I feel. "She ok? She scared the shit outta me. I thought she was doing well with her therapy, healing finally. What happened?"

After taking a big gulp of my drink, I set it down on the table and cup my hands around the can, my thumb rubbing up and down the wet surface. My eyes shift to Allie, and I give her a small smile. "She is doing a lot better, Sis. I just think you all talking brought it all out again in her mind. She'll be fine. She made such great progress. It's just a little set back, that's all." Damn, I hope that's what it was. She was finally healing inside.

Her hand reaches my arm and squeezes. "I hope so, Jesse. She seems like a wonderful girl. I want her to be happy. I want you to be happy. You've been so lost and alone since Claire's passing and even though I understand your need to avenge her death it's not healthy for you. You've been so lonely, it breaks my heart. "

I place my other hand on hers and smile. "I love her so much, Sis. She's everything I could ever have hoped for. I just wish we could have met under different circumstances. I hate what she has gone through. She deserves to be happy, to be spoiled and to be loved and I'm the one who's going to do it. I'd do anything for her. Anything."

She snickers as she removes her hand and takes a sip of her coffee. "Well, Bro, that's obvious. I mean, who rescues a girl, brings her here to hide out and sends their big men out to find the men who kidnapped her? Seriously. It's like a movie but in real life." I give her my best smirk, and she starts laughing. "No, really. I'm happy for you and I know you'll treat her like a princess. She deserves it." She looks at the doorway and back at me. "So, do you think she's ok up there? Think I should go give her some company? I hate that she's alone."

Getting up I walk over to throw away my empty can and lean against the counter. "I wanted to stay with her, be there for her but she didn't want me to. I know she's scared. Maybe she would feel better having another girl with her instead. Thanks, Sis. I love you."

She gives me a smile, takes her coffee cup and washes it in the sink next to me, looking over at me with a smile. "I would be happy to be with her." She kisses my cheek. "You know, we're gonna be best friends." She winks, turns and leaves me in the kitchen alone. I love my sister!

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

After embarrassingly peeing on a test stick, I lay it on the counter and decide to take a quick shower. Maybe that will help me get refreshed. Once I'm done and toweled off, I wrap the towel around my body and begin the tedious process of brushing out my hair. I look down at the test, but nothing is showing yet so I pick up the box and read the back to see how long it takes. Hmmm, should be any second now. My head turns quick when I hear the bathroom door open slowly behind me and Allie peeking in.

"I'm sorry. I hope you don't mind. Can I stay? I just wanted to be with you," she says smiling. I smile, nod and turn back around and start brushing my hair again.

"Ouch! Damn that hurts. My hair has needed a trim for quite a while now and I can't hardly get these stupid tangles out," I say as I snag my hair, yet again!

Allie looks at me fondly. "Hey, I have some scissors in my bathroom. I'm always snipping at my hair. Can I trim it for you? I promise I won't screw it up too bad."

"Wow, that would be great if you're sure you don't mind?" I ask hesitantly.

She turns to walk out and turns her head my way. "I don't mind at all, what are friends for?" She smiles and then leaves.

While Allie is gone, I look back down at the test on the counter, picking it up to get a better look. "Negative," I say aloud. I slump and sigh in relief. There's still a small chance I could be pregnant, I know, but I am still relieved just the same.

Allie comes back into the bathroom, shutting the door behind her, looks at me and then down at the test in my hand. "May I?" She asks. I hand it to her and next thing I know she slams into me hard, wrapping her arms around me, knocking us into the counter.

She pulls back still holding onto my shoulders. "What? You're not happy with the result? I thought you'd be jumping up and down," she says studying my face.

I smile and nod. "I'm happy it's just that the doctor said it could be too soon to tell yet. She suggested I take one in a couple of weeks, but Jesse thought maybe I could take one every few days." I shrug. I just want everything to be over and start enjoying my life with Jesse.

"Well, negative now is still good news in my book. Now, let's see about your hair. I brought some detangler with me. I'll put that on first to see if I can get through your tangles easier. May I?" She says as she reaches for my brush. Handing her my brush, I turn around and face the mirror as she starts brushing. Once she has gotten all the tangles out of my hair, she trims it. Perfect! Oh, it feels so much better!

I turn around and give her a hug. "Thanks so much, Allie. You should be a beautician."

She smiles at me and waves me off. "Oh, that's nothing. I've been cutting Jesse's hair and mine for ages. You have beautiful hair, just enough wave to give it that extra body. And I love the color!" She smiles at me as she's fluffing my hair.

That evening we all sat around watching movies, munching on snacks and laughing together. I haven't had this much fun in a long time. I feel so comfortable around them. I'm starting to feel like maybe I can be part of their family.

Allie has me in a hug whispering in my ear, "I love you, Cassie. You're my sister now. I'm so happy that you and Jesse are together. Please take care of each other." She sniffs as she turns to Jesse. I can hear her whisper to him but can't make out what she's saying. "I can't believe it's been a week already! I don't want to go back. I want to stay here with my new sister and my bro." She stamps her foot and pouts.

I look sadly at Jesse then back to Allie. "I know. I wish you could stay too. But it could end up being too dangerous for you and you have a life. Go. Be great at your job. We'll see each other again soon. I promise. You're not getting away from me that easy," I smile and wink at her.

Allie reluctantly leaves the house, promising Jesse she will call us soon. Jesse turns around after shutting the door, setting the alarm and stalks towards me slowly. I back up, step by step matching his. "Now," Jesse says, wagging his eyebrows. "Where were we?" He's smiling at me and starts to reach out. I turn quickly and run towards the stairs, but I'm laughing so hard I can hardly breathe. He catches me halfway up the stairs, holding my back to his front. We're both laughing. He sets me down on the step above him, and I turn around to face him. At this advantage, I don't have to look up at him quite so much. Once our laughter dies, we stand there looking into each other's eyes, both of us breathing heavily. He takes the hair that's fallen across my face, placing it behind my ear then moving his hand on the side of my face. His lips to mine as he lowers me onto the steps, straddling me, our kissing never breaking stride. Our mouths feed on each other with hunger, need, and want.

He stops kissing my lips and begins kissing all over my face. "I.... Kiss. Don't.... Kiss. Want.... Kiss. To.... Kiss. Hurt.... Kiss. Your.... Kiss. Ribs.... Kiss." He stops long enough to get off me, bends down and next thing I know I'm up and in his arms.

"Whoa," I screech and then I start giggling. "Jesse! My ribs are better!"

He carries me up the rest of the stairs and to the bedroom. When we reach the door, he turns his head to me and gives me a devious smile. "Hmmm, I think we need a shower. We are very.... Kiss. Very.... Kiss. Dirty." He winks at me and continues to carry me through the bedroom and into the bathroom. Setting me down on the counter I watch him turn on the water, testing it periodically. Once he feels he has the right temperature, he turns it off and begins taking off his clothes while gazing into my eyes. I'm biting my lip as my internal heat begins to flame. Ah! A strip show! I like this!

He takes the two steps over to me, his eyes filled with lust, grabs me and pulls off my shirt. Reaching behind me, he unclasps my bra and flings it. I hear it hit the wall. He takes my hands and places them on his strong shoulders and squats down in front of me and begins pulling down my pants and underwear together and throws them on the floor. He looks up at me, leans up and places soft kisses on my healing ribs. I choke up a little at his tenderness, and my tears are threatening to flow. My eyes are fixated on him as he stands and then picks me up, walking into the shower, shutting the door with his foot closing us in. Slowly, he sets me down, takes the soap and begins to lather it in his hands. Water begins to cascade around his body as he turns around to face me. I watch the water trickling down his body, down, down, until I am staring at his engorged cock. Man, that's gotta hurt all big and hard!

He clears his throat, and I snap my head back up to look at him. He has a cocky grin on his face and winks. I swallow and lick my lips. "You're not helping the washing process, baby." Setting the soap down, he begins lathering up my body, starting at my neck and slowly washes down my arms. I gulp. He slides his soapy hands down my chest until he gets to my breasts and holds them there. I moan when he squeezes them gently, his eyes full of love and need as he stares at me. One hand begins to fondle, the other pinches my nipple, and I gasp and moan, the sound echoing in the tiny area. He's smiling now as he watches my face, which is full of emotions and desire. One of his hands moves down my body slowly, stopping at my stomach, smoothing over with the soap and then travels down to my pussy.

"Hmmmm," I moan and lean my head back, my eyes closing. His hand begins its decent between my legs, my stance widening to give it room, then his finger moves inside me. "Ahhhhhh!" I can't take it! My body starts leaning backwards as the feeling overtakes me until I think I'm going to fall. His arm wraps around my waist quickly, and he lifts me, walking me until my back is against the wall. My legs immediately slide around his slim waist, and I cross my ankles, grabbing his shoulders with my hands. He leans towards my face and crushes his lips to mine, and we kiss with a fevered passion. His body presses against me hard, and we both struggle as if we can't get close enough. My fingers are clenched in his hair, his grip around my waist almost painful, but I don't care.

I gasp as his cock plunges into me, and I scream. "OHHHHHH, YES!" We're moaning so loud we're like a duet of lustful moans and groans. We keep perfect time as we rock together, our tongues dancing to our beat. He has one of his hands against the wall behind my head to protect it while the other hand is still around my waist holding me up. So strong, so beautiful, so mine!

I begin to see spots form in my eyes as my climax approaches fast. "Jesseeeeee," I scream as I fall into oblivion, screaming my name. He stands there holding me as he thrusts two more times, and I feel his liquid shooting into me. As we both try to regain our normal breathing, I look into his blue eyes with tears in mine. "Jesse, I love you so much." The expression on his face is one I'll never forget before he reclaims my mouth with so much love.

He starts to carry me out of the tub, and I pout. "But I didn't get to clean you." He bites my lower lip that's jutting out, and I yell 'Ow' but then we both burst out laughing.

He chuckles, "I couldn't resist. God, I love that lip." Then he kisses it softly, looks up at me and shows me that gorgeous smile I love so much. Sigh! I am so gone for this man!
Eleven

I'm so comfortable spooning my sweetheart. I snuggle up closer, put my arm around her and laid my hand over hers, intertwining our fingers. She pushes back against me and groans. I start kissing her shoulder, my leg rubbing up and down on hers. "I really could get used to waking up like this," she whispers.

"Get used to it because I intend to wake you up this way every morning." Leaning up, my mouth starts nibbling on her ear. "And other ways too."

"Mmmmm." She moans again and pushes back against me again, causing my cock to get harder than it already is.

Our cozy snuggle time is disrupted by my phone ringing. Shit, not good timing! I sigh, kiss her shoulder one last time and roll over to my nightstand to retrieve my phone. "Yeah!" I answer rather sharply. "What? Did they get them? Why the fuck not! Well, tell them to find them again, dammit, and not to lose them the next time!"

Disconnecting the call, I slam the phone down on the table, making Cassie sit up, putting her hand on my shoulder. "What's wrong, Jesse? Did something happen? Is it the guys who kidnapped me?"

Turning my head, I see her body trembling, her eyes filled with fear. I move towards her placing my hands on her cheeks. "Baby, calm down. That was Ty. He said his men found them. They followed them for a while but lost them." Her eyes are searching mine. She closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. "Baby, look at me," I whisper. She opens her eyes and blinks rapidly. "I need you to stay calm for me, will you do that?" She gives me a small nod. "I mean it, stay calm, okay? Our men followed them to about an hour and a half from here and then lost their trail."

She gasps, moves out of my grasp and scoots off the bed. She starts pacing the floor, biting her fingernail, and I don't hesitate to hop out of bed and stop her by wrapping my arms around her, keeping her still. Her eyes start searching mine. "Jesse, I'm scared. What if.... What if they find us?" Now she's biting her lower lip so hard I'm afraid it's going to draw blood.

Grabbing her chin with my hand, I take my index finger and press down on her lower lip until she releases it. "Baby, baby, calm down. You said you would stay calm for me." I try to give her a smile, but I falter. I'm really worried right now and not doing a very good job of hiding it. Some protector I am. Releasing her lip, I bring her into me and hug her tightly. "I'll protect you, baby. You know that, right?" I lean down, looking her in the eyes. "You trust me?" My eyes explore her trying to figure out if she's calming down at all. "Right, baby? You know I won't let anything or anyone hurt you. I would die for you." She hitches her breath, trying not to cry and buries her face into my chest, my hand quickly pressing against the back of her head and my fingers caressing. She squeezes me tighter like she can't get close enough. We stand there for a long time until her I feel her body slowly stop shaking. She looks up at me, nods and gives me a small smile.

"I love you, Jesse. I'm not just scared for me though. I'm worried something will happen to you. I can't lose you. I've only just found you." Her head rests against me, her body shaking for a different reason. She cries softly.

I begin to rock her. My hand leaves her head, and I wrapped her up tight. We stand there and sway for a few minutes until her crying slows to sniffles and hiccups. "Come on, honey. Let's go down and get you some food. You need to eat. Let's take it one day at a time, okay? Ty's men are good. They'll find them and get them locked up. I'm sure of it." I take her hand and lead her downstairs.

Once we reach the bottom step Cassie stops, pulling on my hand. "Um, I'm just going to go freshen up," she smiles, pointing around the corner to the bathroom. By the time she makes it into the kitchen I have it set the table with tons of food.

Later that evening we are sitting around in the living room watching a movie. She has her head on my lap, and I'm playing with her soft hair. I'm not really paying attention to the TV, and I don't think she is either. I know we're both filled with the fear of the unknown right now, but I have to believe that they'll be caught, and we'll have our happily ever after. I just have to believe. When the movie is over, I flick the remote, turning the TV off. I brush the hair off her sweet face and look down at her. She's half asleep looking like an angel. "Baby," I whisper, stroking her hair. "Come on, let's go to bed." Her eyes barely open when she looks up at me then sits up and stretches, moves her legs around and stands up shakily. Taking her hand, I steady her and then proceed to walk to the stairs and up to our room, flipping the lights out as we go.

Once we are undressed and in bed, we snuggle, my hand rubbing her arm that is sprawled across my chest. "Cassie?" I whisper. "You awake?" She nods her head slightly against me and yawns. "You ok? You've been awfully quiet tonight."

Her head tilts up showing me her sleepy eyes. "Yeah, just tired. All I want is for you to hold me. Hold me tight." My arms tighten around her, my lips pressing against her head.

"That, I can do." Her eyes close and I lay there staring up at the ceiling until I hear her light breathing then my eyes finally close.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

I awake with a start when I feel pressure against my mouth making it hard to breathe through my mouth. I try to scream, but I can't get any air. My eyes open quickly. Looking to my left, they widen as I see Jesse there, blood flowing down the right side of his face. Oh, my God! This isn't happening. I didn't hear the alarm! My heart starts racing, my body rigid with fear. I'm disoriented, but my sleepy state starts to fade quickly. It must be the middle of the night as it's so dark in here it's difficult to see. My eyes look up to see whose hand is covering my mouth, but I can't make out the person's face. But I can smell him. It's him. It's them! His other hand is pinning my arms down across my waist. I try to struggle, but I can't move much.

"Ah, the bitch that escaped me and wants to put me away," Willie sneers. He lets go of my mouth and slaps me across the face, whipping my head to the left. "UHHHH." He grabs my hands with both of his and pulls me up and out of the bed. I'm struggling, my feet planted on the carpet as I try to pull out of his grip. From what I can see Mick isn't in the room. He starts pulling me over by the wall in between the bathroom and closet and whips me around, placing a hand against my throat and squeezes. I grab the hand at my throat with my right and pull hard, but he is too strong, and I am immobile as he moves my left arm around my back pulling it so hard it hurts.

"LET HER GO, YOU MAGGOT!" Jesse yells as he slowly stands up from the bed, his hand pressing against the mattress as he staggers. The blood on the side of his face is half covering his eye and is dripping off his chin now. I struggle and pain shoots down my arm as he pulls on it tighter.

"Not a chance, asshole. I've already had her once but don't mind having a little fun before I kill you both," Willie growls taunting him. His hold tightens on my throat and my arm, and I wince in pain. Jesse looks at me with concern and then looks back at Willie with daggers in his eyes. How can I warn him that Mick isn't around that he could be in the house somewhere?

"Nope, it's time for you to be locked up for good and put to rest, asshole," Jesse growls. He looks at me and his eyes moving to the door slyly. He's going to do something, and he wants me to move fast. My heart is about to beat out of my chest, the pain in my arm and my throat killing me, but I need to be ready.

Willie tightens his reins on me, and again, I wince. "Nah, ain't gonna be locked up again. Won't happen. I'd rather die first."

Jesse moves his eyes back to the door quickly again and looks back at Willie. "That can be arranged," he sneers.

Everything after that is a blur because what occurs next happens so fast. Jesse runs across the room and lunges at Willie. My captor reacts by pulling me by my throat and pulling so hard on my arm, I hear a pop and excruciating pain travels all the way down it and causing me to stumble. But he can't move fast enough with me in tow, so he throws me against the wall so hard that I ram my head into the wall. My head is throbbing and my arm is hanging from me, useless.

"RUN, CASSIE, RUN. YOU KNOW WHERE TO GO! HURRY!" Jesse is screaming at me as he wrestles with Willie on the ground.

My adrenaline soars as I run out of the room literally flying down the stairs. I keep looking all around me as I run, looking for Mick. I make it through the living room and down the hall passed the bookshelf by Jesse's office and stop dead. My head turns swiftly when I hear them yelling upstairs, and I start panicking as I rush to find the book that will open the secret door. I start pulling on all of them in frustration. Then I hear a gun shot, and jump, startled. OH, my God! Jesse!!!! I need to go help him! No. He told me to go hide so that's where I am going. I finally find the right book, and the door slides into the wall. Quickly, I run in, turn around and hit the hidden button on the wall to close the door. I'm afraid to turn on any lights, so I hold onto the spiral staircase railing and try to hurry down the stairs. When I reach the bottom, I run as fast as I can, with my hands out in front of me blindly to the alcove Jesse showed me. Once I get there, I start feeling around on the wall for the switch. Shit! I can't find the damn hidden switch! Suddenly, I hear the wall upstairs making noise as it begins moving. Oh, my God! Where's the damn switch? I start hitting the wall everywhere, my heart beating so fast I feel like I could be sick. Finally, I find the switch and hit it, the door sliding into the wall, and I move quickly inside, turn around and hit the switch in there. As the door begins to close, I slide down the far wall until my bottom hits the floor, pulling my legs up and my right arm around them, hugging them to me.

I lay my head back against the wall and wait. My head is throbbing so much worse now, and I can hardly feel my left arm or shoulder, but all I think about is Jesse and wonder if he is ok. If something happens to him, I will die. Tears begin flowing down my face now. I am so scared! Scared that the men will find me. Scared that Jesse is dead. I don't know what to do. How long should I stay in here? I hear sounds coming from the room outside like someone running this way. The fear inside me swelling that I feel like I'm going to throw up. My mind racing with thoughts of how long it would take for someone to discover this hidden room and me inside. How would anyone even find me to rescue me? I would die in here because I'm too frightened to leave the safety of it and if Jesse has been killed, then I will die here because I don't want to live without him.

My head hits the wall behind me when I jump as something pounds against the door and begins to slide open. Here we go, I'm gonna be killed. I put my head onto my knees and start to pray.

"Cassie? Baby?" My head rises up slowly to find Jesse quickly coming into the room. He lowers himself in front of me into a squat, but I can barely see him through my tears. As the tears start trickling down my face, my vision clears enough that I notice the blood on the right side of his head seems to have slowed down, but a black eye is forming, and his lower lip is cut and bleeding. I launch myself at him, wrapping my right arm around his neck and burying my face into his chest, causing him to sit down hard on the floor. His arms immediately wrap around me, and I cry out in pain. He moves his upper body back a bit and frowns. "Oh, my God! You're hurt. Baby, where are you hurt?"

I look up at him, the pain coursing through me. "I think my left arm was pulled out of its socket and my head is killing me." Quickly, he places his right arm under my legs and his left arm around my waist, grunting as he gets up onto his knees with me in tow, then up to a standing position. He turns his head to mine and kisses me on the lips softly. "Oh, God, baby. I'm so glad you're ok. I don't know what I would have done if I'd lost you. I would have gone crazy," he whispers pressing his forehead against mine. He carries me up the spiral staircase and into the living room and sits on the couch, me across his lap and in the silence, I hear sirens outside.

I start to panic. "Oh, my God! Where.... Where is he? We need to get out, hurry, Jesse. He'll see us!" I start struggling to get out of his arms, so I can make him leave with me. "We should've stayed in the safe room." My body begins shaking as I continue to try to get up.

His arms hold me tighter containing me. "Shhh, no baby. It's ok. He's dead. I hit the silent alarm to get the police here. It's over. It's ok now," he says, holding me back.

"No, no, Jesse. There's the other guy. I didn't see him anywhere. He has to still be in the house somewhere!" I am pushing against him now, trying to get out of his hold.

He releases me with one hand and cups my face. "Baby, baby. Listen. Calm down. I've checked everywhere and he isn't here. Ok? I've checked. Everything is ok now. Shhhh."

"I.... I.... I heard a gunshot. Are you hurt, Jesse? Did.... Did you get shot?" My eyes roam his as much of his body as I can see, looking for wounds.

He looks at me puzzled. "No, baby. I shot that guy. I killed him and I would do it a hundred times if it meant it would keep you safe. But he deserved it. Not only for what he did to you, but for what he did to my mom. It's over now. Everything is going to be ok."

Even though I'm a bit relieved, my body starts shaking even harder. What is going on? He holds me closer, his hand still holding the side of my face and rubbing my cheek. All of a sudden, I'm exhausted and can hardly keep my eyes open or my head up. My head lies against his shoulder, my eyes trying to stay open to look at my savior.

In the silence, the sirens are really loud now. I startle, and my head bolts up when the front door bursts open and several policemen come in and stop still. All of them have their arms stretched out in front with their guns pointing around the room. "Freeze! Don't move!" Jesse stands up with me still in his arms, struggling to get a solid footing with my shaking body.

"Look officer, we are the victims. You'll find the perpetrator upstairs, end of the hall, in the master bedroom," he tells the officer angrily. The officer who yelled at us looks at the men around him and cocks his head towards the stairs. I see three officers, still guns pointing around, begin walking to the stairs, but my eyes grow heavier, so I lay my head back down on Jesse's chest. I am so tired I can hardly keep my eyes open.
Twelve

My eyes open again when two paramedics come into the house, their eyes noticing us quickly and immediately jog over carrying their equipment. "Hello. We're here to help. Can I get your names please?" A big burly guy asks.

"Her name is Cassie and I'm Jesse. Please help her first. I think she's hurt really bad, please help her," Jesse pleads. The paramedic that was talking with us looks over at the other one, which is a woman and nods.

She walks over and looks at both of us, a small smile on her face. "Jesse, can you lay Cassie down on the couch please so we can take a look at her and assess her injuries?"

I panic and look up at Jesse, shaking my head. "No, no, don't let me go, please don't let me go," I cry, his hand moving to the side of my face and his fingers weaving into my hair.

He looks at me with sadness in his eyes. "Shhh, baby. I will be right here. I'm not going anywhere. No one can take me away from you. They have to see how hurt you are, honey. I'll be right there with you, I promise." He's pleading to me with his eyes, so I nod slowly. I know I'm ok now, but I'm still so scared and can't stop the fear that's taking over.

He carefully lays me on the couch and kneels on the floor right by my head, his fingers in my hair soothing me a little. "Cassie is it?" The woman paramedic is beside me with a stethoscope around her neck, and she's putting on rubber gloves. I nod slowly, my chin quivering. "Good. Cassie, can you tell me where all you hurt, please?"

I look over at Jesse, who nods at me, and then back at the woman. "The left upper side of my head. I.... I hit it against the wall really hard. And.... And...." My breathing starts to accelerate, my chest rising and falling quickly, and I'm having trouble catching my breath.

The woman looks concerned. "It's ok, Cassie. Take a few deep breaths for me, ok? You're going to start to hyperventilate if you don't slow your breathing down."

Looking over at Jesse, I try to take a deep breath, but I can't seem to slow it down. Panic begins to overwhelm me.

"Shhh, baby. Shhh, calm down for me, ok? It's ok now. It's all over and I'm right here. Shhh," Jesse says soothingly while stroking my hair. Closing my eyes, I begin to take a few deep breaths and after several times it begins to get a little easier now. In, out. Wait. In, out.

"Good. That's good, Cassie," the woman says to me. "Take your time, then you can finish telling me what hurts."

I look back over to her and see her concerned face. I take a few more deep breaths, my body relaxing a little more. "Um, my left shoulder and arm hurt, but I can't feel them very much right now. I think that man.... That man...." My breathing starts to catch in my throat, and I begin to shake uncontrollably.

Jesse moves closer so I can see him better. "He's dead, honey. He can't hurt you anymore. It's ok. Take deep breaths again, ok, baby? Do it for me."

My eyes close and I start taking deep breaths again. My breathing begins to slow down. I open my eyes and look back at the woman. "He pulled my arm really hard. I think he pulled it out of the socket. I heard a pop. And my throat hurts where he held onto me." Whew! I did it. I finally got that all out.

"Ok, honey. I have to ask you if there is a chance you could be pregnant before I can give you anything for the pain.

Jesse looks at her and speaks up, "Yes, there's a chance." He looks at me and smiles. His fingers leave my hair. The back of his hand smoothes against my cheek. I take a quivering breath and close my eyes briefly only to open them and noticing tears in his eyes.

She nods at me with a warm smile and unzips a big duffle bag sitting on the coffee table. She turns around for a few minutes and then turns to me unwrapping a syringe and filling it with some medicine from a vial. "Thank you for letting me know. I am going to give you a shot for pain, nothing harmful in case you are pregnant and it will also help relax you, ok?" I nod slowly, welcoming the thought of relieving the pain. As she's giving me the shot, she adds, "Then I am going to put a sling around your arm. It will help immobilize it and protect it from further injury, ok, sweetie?" I nod again and look at Jesse, whose mouth still contains a frown, his face worried.

When she returns to her bag and pulls out the sling, she asks the other paramedic to join her. She looks at Jesse and then at me and smiles. "I'm Morgan and this is Joe. Cassie? Joe is going to get behind you and help you sit up so I can put this sling around you. It will be easier that way, ok?"

I look at Jesse and then back at Joe and Morgan. "Ok." I look back at Jesse. "But don't leave me."

He shakes his head, his frown turning into a smile. "Never."

I smile a little then Joe comes over and lifts my upper body enough that he can sit behind me. "Ugh!" I groan.

"Sorry, sorry!" He says sympathetically. Morgan carefully puts my arm in the sling, tightening it so it's stable.

She takes her right hand and feels on the left side of my head and up in my hair. "Ow," I whimper and move my head away slightly. She looks at Joe and then back at me with concern. "Sorry, honey. You have a pretty good lump there. When we take you to the hospital they'll want to get an x-ray of that but we'll make sure to let them know there is a chance of pregnancy. Just in case." She smiles. "Anything else hurt?"

Jesse looks at her. "She has a couple of cracked ribs from a week ago, that are still healing." She looks at Jesse. "Thank you, Jesse. That's good to know. We will be very careful and let the doctor at the hospital know that as well."

She looks at Joe and nods, then he gently gets up and lays me back down. "We'll be back in a minute, ok?" Joe tells us then they leave out the front door when an officer comes down the stairs and stops them. "We need another ambulance. Can you call it in?" Morgan nods at him, and they leave.

The officer comes over to us, clearing his throat. "Ahem. Once you are taken care of at the hospital, I will need to ask you both some questions," he says gruffly.

Jesse looks at me, his eyes not tearing away. "I'll give you any answers you need, but she's really hurt. Can you wait to ask her tomorrow?" My eyes move to the officer who's looking down at me. "Well, yeah, I guess I can. I'll see you both at the hospital. My men are finishing upstairs. Are you ok with them locking up?" Jesse simply nods, still watching me intently.

Soon the paramedics come back into the house, pulling a gurney behind them. I look at Jesse and frown. "Don't leave me," I whimper. He looks at the gurney and then back at me. "Don't worry, baby, I am going with you. I'll never leave you, I promise," he whispers by my head then kisses it softly.

The paramedics carefully pick me up and place me on the gurney securing me with straps. My head begins to feel woozy with all the movement and medicine that's finally starting to invade my system. "I am going to start an IV in your right hand, Cassie. It's more pain meds to help you, ok?" Joe asks and I barely move my head to nod. Once the IV is in, Jesse walks out with us, holding hands. My eyes keep blinking constantly as my body is about to give out. The last thing I remember is being put in the ambulance and Jesse being by my side.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

I lift my head from Cassie's bed when I hear her. Maybe she's finally waking up. "Jesse, don't leave me," she murmurs, her head moving back and forth slowly against the pillow. I take her hand in mine, squeezing it gently. "Hmmm," she moans softly.

"I can't. He won't let me go. I can't move. Jesse be careful. Don't get hurt.... Don't die.... Don't leave me. I can't lose you.... Not now. I...." She's murmuring again. I place the back of my hand against her forehead, and it's still pretty warm.

My head turns when I feel Allie's hand on my arm. She arrived a few hours ago and hasn't left Cassie's side since. "You look like shit, Bro." My smile is small, but I can't help but chuckle.

"Thanks, Sis. I want to take a shower but I'm afraid she'll wake up while I'm gone." I look back over at Cassie and sigh. "I'll tell Ty to go get her some clothes and some for me too."

Allie laughs. "Yeah, good idea since your clothes has blood all over them and it would be nice if you took a shower but I can understand you not wanting to leave her. I can come get you if she wakes up. How's your eye. What a shiner!" She reaches up and touches below it.

"Ow! Well, it's pretty tender. You don't have to touch it, Allie." I wince, and she smiles sadly.

Another hour goes by, and Allie sat with Cassie while I took a shower after Ty dropped off a bag of clothes for Cassie and me. Damn, I wish she would wake up. I miss my girl and am really worried about her. I continue to sit by my love's side, watching, hoping and praying. Allie finally went to the hotel to get some sleep.

I'm about to nod off, and I hear her moan, her eyes opening slowly and blinking a few times then squinting, and closing again. I stand and pull the string hanging from the overhead light, turning it off.

"Baby? Cassie, are you awake?" I whisper softly in her ear. She turns her head slowly towards my voice and opens her eyes slightly. I take her hand in mine, start brushing the hair away from her face with the other then begin stroking her head gently. "Cassie, you scared me. I didn't think you were ever going to open those beautiful eyes of yours." My smile is wide as I continue to stroke her hair.

She gives me a small smile and sighs. "How long have I been asleep? What day is it?" She chokes out, her voice gruff with sleep and dryness.

As I rub the soft skin of her hand, I gently kiss her dry lips and move back a little so she can see me. "Baby, it's been three days." Her eyebrows raise high in surprise.

"Wow, really?" I nod while frowning.

"Yes, you had a small concussion and have been really out of it. I was so scared, baby." I can't stop the tears from filling my eyes. I've never been so relieved in my life now that she's awake and talking.

Her hand turns over, her fingers slide in between mine and she gives me the best smile. "Your eye looks like it hurts. Are you ok?" She asks now worried about me.

I nod, brush back some more of her hair and smile. "I'm fine. Don't you worry about me, I want all your strength to be used in getting better, ok?" I kiss her forehead, leaving my lips there.

The doctor came in at that moment to check Cassie over. He told us that he wants to keep her at least one more night since she just had awoken to make sure she is ok to leave. Once we leave I need to keep an eye on her, and for the next few days if she couldn't seem to wake up and be coherent, or is disoriented, then I need to call an ambulance and get her back as quick as possible. Like I wouldn't be watching her every single minute anyway? He didn't feel as if that would happen and that she just needed to get plenty of rest. He told us that her arm was definitely pulled out of the socket and to keep it in the sling for about a week, and it should heal just fine.

The next morning, while we were waiting for the discharge papers, the officer came around and asked all his questions. Cassie asked where the other man, Mick, was and if they had found him somewhere but the officer looked confused. I told her I would tell her everything later, but I wanted her to get some good rest first and get stronger. Thank God she was too tired to argue.

Once we were back home, it was hard for Cassie to get any rest. I thought hospitals were busy, oh not compared to my house. Allie and Tyler were there and even Dad showed up all of a sudden concerned for her. They seem to be cleaning and cooking and constantly trying to make Cassie comfortable, but she was getting absolutely no rest! I was so glad they were there though. Their love and support is just what she needed right now. But then the next week she got so much rest she was about ready to bust out of the house. Of course, I wouldn't let her do anything. I barely let her walk. "I can walk, Jesse. Seriously." She rolled her eyes at me, but giggles. Secretly, I think she enjoyed me carrying her around. I know I did.

Dad had apologized to both of us before he left, but said that his little rampage was only out of concern. I can tell by the way he talked to us that he thinks we would be better apart from each other, and I know Cassie got that vibe too. He still acts like she's not good enough for me, but I don't give a shit. I know what I want, what I feel, and she's right here with me and I will make sure, no matter the cost, that she always will be.

We decide to head back to Kansas. Cassie is dying to see her friends and wants me to meet them. I know she's missed them terribly, and I also know they've been worried about her. I gave Cassie my phone to call Stella and could hear her screaming when Cassie pulled the phone away from her ear, but once she calmed down they had a nice long talk. I know Cassie didn't go into detail about everything that happened, but she got the gist of it and was just happy at that point that Cassie was ok.

Tyler and I are loading the SUV with our things while Allie and Cassie are packing a lunch for the trip. I know it's hard for Cassie to do some things with one arm, but she seems determined to do things for herself. My stubborn girl. Tyler's going to fly back to LA with Allie, and then they'll come to Kansas in another week to visit. After getting everything loaded, I go into the house to see if Cassie is almost ready, and I stop outside the kitchen when I hear the girls talking. Leaning up against the wall I smile as I eavesdrop.

"I think you need a couple of apples," Allie suggests. "And maybe some grapes. Oh! I got some peanut butter crackers too. Let me get them."

"Allie? Are you ok? What's wrong?" Cassie's voice is full of worry.

Their silent and I'm about to walk in when I hear Allie. "It's just. I was so worried about you. It took too long to get here to see if you were ok and now, I don't want to be that far from you and Jesse. I miss you guys too much." I can hear her sniffling, and my heart goes out to her. I know I'll miss her too. So much time we have been away from each other, and I'm so happy that she and Cassie have gotten close.

"I'll miss you too, more than you'll ever know. But it will only be a week, and you will be with us again. I can't wait for you to spend a week with us. Maybe we will have found the perfect house by then, and you can help me decorate." Oh, that's good, Allie's weakness. My girl just hit her with her favorite pastime.

"Shopping! Now you're talking!" Then all is right with the world as the girls both start laughing. 
Thirteen

I slept on and off during the first hour of our drive back to Kansas. We decided to stop for lunch on the side of the road and eat in the car.

"So, what happened to Mick, Jesse? I know it's something bad. Please tell me," I beg him as I take a drink of my Diet Coke.

He wipes his mouth with his napkin and takes a drink of water then clears his throat. "Ty found him about two miles from the house, in the trees. Baby, I don't think..."

I interrupt him. "Please I want to know. I have to know, Jesse," I add firmly and determined. He turns in his seat and faces me, picking up my hand.

"Baby, Ty found him in the trees. He was half buried. His body was mutilated." He shakes his head, and I wince. "Ty said he has never seen anything like it before and he has seen a lot." I start biting my lower lip, and tears begin to form. He leans over and puts his hand around the back of my neck, pulling him closer until our foreheads touch. "It's not that I wanted to keep it from you, but I didn't want you to have that in your head." He presses his lips against my forehead kissing me softly.

It's not that I cared for that horrible man, hell, I hated him and what he did to me, but no one deserves to die that way. No one. Looking over at Jesse, I shake my head. "I just wanna go home, our home. Take me home, Jesse." He nods, kisses my lips quickly and turns around to start the car. I lean my head back against the headrest turning towards him and just stare as he heads out into the road. How did I get so lucky to have such a wonderful savior? I smile and thank God.

Two hours later we drive into the small town I call home. Even after sleeping off and on the whole way here, I'm exhausted. We decide to get a hotel room first, get unpacked and rest before letting anyone know we're here.

Later that evening I start to wake up from a nap on our hotel bed. Feeling the bed move, I look up to see Jesse hovering over me with a smile on his face. "Well, look who finally decided to wake up," he says with a playful grin.

I reach up and pull on his arms until he is almost lying on top of me. "Hmmmm, your beautiful smiling face is the best thing to wake up to," I tell him while kissing his firm jawline. "Ya know we, um, haven't, you know, been together since everything happened." I nip and peck his lips. "I think we are overdue, don't you?" I peck his lips again in a different spot. "I mean.... Peck. We wouldn't.... Nip. Want to get.... Kiss. Out of practice."

He pulls back a little. "There is nothing on this earth I would rather do, but don't you think you should heal some more? I don't want to hurt you and have it take longer for you to heal again." His full lips kiss mine, not lingering long enough. "I don't think I could take the worry and I know my cock wouldn't be able to handle waiting for you to start all over healing again."

I let out a giggle before I can stop it. "Jesse, I'm not going to break. The doctor said to wait a week. Wait! Are you scared of me? We're gonna have sex some time, right?" I start to tickle his sides, and he's laughing and squirming on top of me.

"Stop! I am going to fall on you, Cassie! Stop," Jesse says, laughing.

Suddenly, he falls over to my right and rolls over onto his back. I'm on top of him in an instant looking down at him, my long hair creating a wall around us. We are breathing heavy and still laughing, looking deeply into each other's eyes. It doesn't take me but a second to lean down and smash my lips to his. Our hands are all over each other in a frenzy, and we're kissing, touching, like we haven't seen each other in years. He holds me and rolls us over until he is on top of me again, but we never break our kiss as we hurriedly undress each other.

I'm wiggling beneath Jesse as he sucks on my right nipple, my arms move around his waist, sliding them down to his sexy butt and squeeze. That sets him off, and he groans loudly. I can feel the tip of his cock by my opening, and if I just move a little more it will slide in. I move enough that I can feel him move into me a little, so I buck my hips causing it to slide in even more. Apparently, he knows what I am trying to do, so he helps me out by pushing all the way into me, pulling his mouth off my nipple and burying his face into my neck. He begins to suck on my neck as we rock together, lifting his head, so he can lock his lips with mine. I meet him with every move until we are groaning into each other's mouths, panting, our bodies getting slick with sweat. One last push and we are falling together in total bliss.

We lay there holding each other, breathing heavily, our bodies trembling. He finally regains himself, gets up and goes into the bathroom. I can hear the water turn on and then shut off, then he comes back out and cleans both of us. Damn that feels good. I will never get tired of that. I will never get tired of making love with him. God, I love him!

Once he's returned from disposing the washcloth he gets into the bed and pulls me into his side. I lay in my favorite position, my left arm across his waist, and my head on his chest with my left leg over his. He's playing with my hair, and I am rubbing my hand back and forth across his broad chest. This is the best feeling, so unbelievable! I am so overflowing with love right now I could explode! I can't believe after everything I have been through, we have been through, we are here together. Finally. My eyes close and I drift off with happy thoughts filling my head.

I am so excited to take Jesse to the Café that I can hardly wait. "Hurry, Jesse! I want to get over there! I can't wait to see everyone and introduce you to them!" I yell out towards the bathroom. He's taking forever in there. Oh, my God! What in the hell is he doing in there? I thought girls took the longest time getting ready, Oh, no!

Finally, he comes out of the bathroom and looks at me perplexed. "What?"

I roll my eyes. "Seriously?" He walks towards me.

"What?" He asks again, shrugging his shoulders. Oh. My. God! I just turn around, go get my purse and go to the front door of our room. I open it, look at him and wait, tapping my foot on the floor.

He laughs. He laughs? Really? He walks over to me and grabs ahold of my shoulders. "Baby, calm down. They're your friends. You can relax." Then he kisses me and I just stand there in shock as he walks out the door.

We walk into the Café, hand in hand. Wait! What in the hell is that smell? I cover my mouth with my hand and run to the bathroom, which is way across the room. Oh, my God! I'm not going to make it! Forcefully, I push on the door so hard it hits the wall behind it and run into the nearest stall, slamming the door open and barely bend over the toilet in time to throw up everything I think I have ever eaten in my life!

After a couple times of heaving, I hear someone running into the bathroom. "Cassie? Cassie? Are you ok, pumpkin?" Oh, my God, that's Stella. How embarrassing? Stella is the sweetest woman you will ever meet. Almost too sweet. She is in her mid-fifties with a blonde bob and makeup that is caked on her face, but she would give you her right arm if it helped you in any way.

Shakily, I stand up and walk over to the sink. As I run the water, I splash some on my face and look up into the mirror. Wow! I look horrible. I'm pale and have circles under my eyes. Lovely. My stomach is really queasy, but more stable, I think.

I turn around and Stella grabs me into a huge hug. "Oh my, pumpkin. I can't believe you're back. I was so worried about you," she says smashing me into her chest.

"Um, Stella, Stella," I choke out. "Can't breathe." She pulls away at arm's length. "Oh, sorry, pumpkin. You know how excited I get." Do. I. Ever!

I take a few deep breaths and hear someone running down the hall by the bathroom, coming closer, really fast! Jesse comes sliding in the door, skidding to a stop before he rams into the wall. "Jesse! This is the women's bathroom! What are you doing in here?" I yell out, my voice reverberating against the walls.

"Oh, sorry. I wanted to make sure you're ok," he says, panting, bent over with his hands on his knees looking up at me. "I couldn't wait any longer. I had to check."

Stella puts her arm around my shoulder. "She'll be just fine, um, Jesse?" He nods as he tries to get his breathing under control. Stella clears her throat. "Well, I'll bring her out in just a few minutes, ok?" She says sweetly. He looks at me, concern filling his eyes. I nod and half smile as I shrug my shoulders.

Finally, he stands, smiles at Stella and gives me a sad smile. "Ok, I'll, uh, see you in a few minutes, right?" He's so sweet to be worried about me, but I need my Stella right now.

She releases her arm from around me and ushers Jesse out of the bathroom. "Yes, yes, she'll be out in a few, bye!" She waves her arms and shoos him. She turns to me after closing the door and leans against it with her back. "Now, pumpkin. What the hell is going on with you?" Oh, my! There's her motherly instinct showing.

I look down at my hands that I am wringing. "I don't know exactly. Well, not really. I mean, I'm not sure, um...." She pushes herself from the door, walks over to me and lifts my chin with her hand.

"Pumpkin, look at me. You know you can tell me anything." I move my eyes up to meet hers and start crying. She holds me, rubbing my back.

"I don't know, Stella. The last couple of days my stomach has just been in knots. I mean, I know that I've been under so much stress so that's not unusual, right? But I just have a funny feeling and I'm scared." I say my chin quivering as I talk into her shirt.

She lets go of her hold on me and takes my hand, patting it. "Ok, so what are you afraid of, hon?" She asks.

I look around a bit and back to her eyes. "Promise you won't say anything to anyone? I mean it, Stella, not to anyone!"

She crosses her heart with her other hand. "I swear, pumpkin."

I look down and whisper, "I think I might be pregnant and I'm not sure who the father is."

Stella takes a step back. "YOU, WHAT?" She yells.

"Shhhh. Oh, my God! Be quiet," I say looking around as if there was anyone else in this tiny bathroom with us. Stella now has her hand over her heart and is breathing heavy like she's about to have a heart attack. "Oh, my God, Stella. It's a long story! I can't go into all of it right now." I proceed to tell her enough that she would understand why I was so upset. "So, you see? It really could be either one of them, and if I am, I have no idea how to tell who the father is."

She backs up to the stall behind her and leans on the stall wall. She starts fanning herself with her hand and stares at me. "Well, there's only three things to do right now. Go out there and act like everything is ok, get some saltines and I need a very big drink. A very, very big drink."

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

I watch as Cassie and Stella walk over to the booth I'm sitting in. Cassie slides in next to me and my arm instinctively wraps around her shoulder, pulling her close. She looks at me and smiles, the color back in her beautiful face. "I'm better now. Must have been something I ate that didn't agree with me."

I give her my best smile and kiss her forehead. "Good. You had me worried, baby."

Stella walks over with some saltine crackers and a glass of water, sets them down in front of Cassie, and she looks up at her and smiles. That's odd. "Here, pumpkin. This is always good to settle a sour stomach," she says, smiling and gives Cassie a wink. Ok, something's going on and I plan to find out what it is. She reaches across Cassie with her hand to me and gives me a look. "I'm Stella. Been kind of like a mom to my pumpkin here." I shake her hand, giving her my own look back. "I know you're Jesse. Nice to meet the man who has captured my pumpkin's heart." She smiles at me and then shakes her head slowly. This is the weirdest non conversation I've ever had. The rest of the crew eventually stops by the table to meet me, giving Cassie hugs and kisses on her cheek and she finally leaves us in peace to eat.

"So, you never really told me what you do, Jesse, besides look for your mom's killers. You have me curious." Cassie gives me her sweet and sexy smile, with her brow raised. I'm in trouble.

I clear my throat, squirming in my seat. "Well, I run a charity organization out of the house. I have several large corporations that privately hire my staff and myself to organize big charity events and manage the money from them. I do most of the work from my computer and phone. My clientele keeps growing all the time and pretty soon I may have to hire more staff." I'm sure my look is full of pride because I made my organization from the bottom up and have almost too much to do anymore it's so busy.

"Wow, that sounds great! You must be really good at what you do," she says biting her fingernail.

"Why do you say that?" What's she getting to with all this? And biting her fingernail means she's nervous, but what about. Now that makes me nervous.

"Hmm, well, if you're getting more clients all the time you must be doing something right." She quickly looks down at her hands that are fidgeting in her lap and then back up at me. "Well, I guess what I don't know is, where do you live? I mean, you don't live at your safe house, or do you? I guess there's still a lot I don't know about you?" Her voice and face are full of confusion. Damn, I haven't really shared much about myself. Now I feel bad.

Again, I squirm in my seat. "I really haven't been too forthcoming, have I?" The shaking of her head ensures me that's a big fat no. My hand cups her face, my thumb rubbing her cheek. "And you have been so sharing, so giving about your life." I smile and look deeply into her gorgeous eyes. "Baby, I pretty much don't have to worry about money to live on. Let's just say I can live very comfortably. I love what I do with the charities and it keeps me occupied. I do attend some of them to keep up appearances and relationships with my clients. But if I didn't work a day in my life, I still wouldn't need money. My mom was a wealthy woman from when she was married to my birth father and I inherited it all when she died. I started the company five years ago, mainly out of boredom. In the first year it was horrible. I couldn't find the right staff, no one I hired was competent or could be trusted. Then when Betsy applied, my assistant and right hand, everything just took off. Between us, the next three years we were booming with clients, so much that Betsy didn't mind that I took off to find Mom's killers. She took on almost everything while I was gone, just calling me with updates or asking questions if she needed help."

The look of admiration in her eyes is way more than I deserve. "Wow, Jesse. Your dad and Allie must be so proud of you. How could they not? Look at what you've accomplished! I'm so proud of you." Her smile so big, her eyes gleaming with love shining from them that I can't stop myself from throwing my arms around her, cradling her head in my head and kiss the shit outta her.

"You don't know what that means to me," I whisper in her ear. I release her from my arms, but take her hand in mine, lacing our fingers together. "They are proud but Dad flipped out when I told him I was going after Mom's killers. Allie did too but she at least tried to understand."

Stella chose that moment to come over and start to clear our dishes. "Pumpkin, are you and Jesse going to stay at your apartment? I've been keeping it clean hoping you'd be back some day," she says with a sniffle. Cassie grabs a napkin from the dispenser and hands it to her.

I look at Stella then at Cassie and swallow hard. "Um, well, I was going to talk to you about that, Stella? Can you give us a few minutes?" I look at Stella's concerned face, smile and give her a wink. She smiles at me, winks back and walks away.

Cassie turns in her seat giving me a confused look. "What was that all about?" She asks skeptically.

I take both her hands in mine. "Ahem. Well, on the way here I saw this house for rent. It's just outside of town and I'd like us to go and see it. If it looks good I was thinking about renting it for us?" I clear my throat. "That is, if you, maybe, want to live together?" She launches herself at me so hard we fall back into the booth together, hitting my head on the window sill. "Ouch!" I yell grabbing the back of my head and laughing.

"Oh, my God, Jesse! I'm so sorry! Are you ok?" She asks while giggling, her hand reaching behind me and rubbing my head soothingly.

I stop laughing abruptly. "Is that a yes?" I'm nothing but serious now. Did she really say yes? She nods enthusiastically and my heart just skipped some beats. "Then I'm just perfect."
Fourteen

The next morning we go to the house, and Jesse calls the number on the sign for the owner to come meet us. He's a burly man, maybe early thirties with a beard and an earring in one ear, black jeans, black shirt with the sleeve's cut out showing the tattoos adorning his arms. He shows us around the two story house. It has three bedrooms, a nice sized family room, huge kitchen with eating area and separate dining room. We find that the basement is finished with a rec room, two bedrooms, a full bath and a smaller room that's perfect to use as an office. The backyard is really nice and is fenced in with a deck off the kitchen.

"Name's Buck." He reaches his hand out, and Jesse shakes his hand, then Jesse introduces us. Buck continues. "My parents owned the house. They passed away and I moved back here a few weeks ago. I decided to rent it out since there's an apartment over my shop. I know it doesn't have much furnishings but if you want to get all your own stuff just let me know and I'll come around and pick everything up," he says to Jesse. "I can do some maintenance, but if you can fend for yourself that would help me out. I own the new tattoo parlor in town, so I don't have a lot of extra time to spare." He clears his throat. "Well, I'll give you all a little bit of time to look around on your own. I'll just be out front making a couple of calls. Take your time." And with that he leaves us.

We walk around for a while and end up in the kitchen. Jesse leans back against the counter, taking my hands in his strong ones. "Well, what do you think, baby?" He asks as I turn my head, looking around the kitchen.

"I love it! But I really can't afford much." I look down shyly. He immediately lifts my head back up with his finger under my chin giving me his sexy grin.

"You can work at the Café because I know you love the people there but only if that's what you want to do and if you don't want to work at all, that's ok by me too. But you don't have to pay for anything. This is something I want to do for you. For us." He leans forward and kisses me lightly on my lips. Sigh. He's too good to me.

I shake my head. "Jesse, you don't have to pay for everything. I want to help out. I don't want to feel like I'm a freeloader." I smile and let out a deep breath.

Jesse laughs. "I'll tell you what, as long as you help me with the cooking and decorating this place to make it a home, you can do what you want with your money," he says, pulling me into his arms and kissing the top of my head.

"Deal!" I say into his chest as we both start laughing.

Once we told Buck we would rent the house, and Jesse gave him the deposit, he gave us the keys, and we broke in the house properly by making love on the family room floor.

Later that evening we checked out of the hotel and stopped by the Café for dinner. I told Stella and the girls that we rented the house and we all stood there screaming like girls and hugging. "Does that mean you'll come back to work, pumpkin?" Stella asks me with hope in her eyes.

"I would like to, if that's ok? I may just need a few days to get settled?" I shrug not sure how long it will take me to feel settled. This is all so new to me, having a big house, living with the man I love more than my life and the stomach issues I'm having from all the stress.

She gives me a big hug. "Of course it's ok, honey. You just let me know when you're ready, and I'll add you to the schedule. I am so glad you're back safe and sound."

Once the girls get back to work Stella gets close and softly says, "Um, any more stomach problems? Have you figured out for sure what that was?" She raises her eyebrows.

I look around and see Jesse sitting in our booth talking to Brenda. "Yeah, I am still getting nauseous off and on and no, I'm not sure yet, but I am going to take another pregnancy test tonight." I look at her with tears in my eyes. "Stella, I'm scared."

Stella hugs me and whispers, "Don't be scared, pumpkin. We are all here for you and whatever happens, we love you." I nod with my head on her shoulder.

After dinner we do a little shopping at the furniture store, trying out the beds, laughing as we bounce on them and roll around. We order bedroom furniture, couches, chairs, a dining set, breakfast table and chairs, the works. It will all be delivered tomorrow afternoon. We leave there and go grocery shopping then return home and start unpacking the bags. Home. Such a simple word, but one that I've not had in such a long time. I am exhausted! When we are done putting away all the groceries, Jesse walks over and puts his hands on my shoulders, looking at me with concern in his eyes. "Baby? Are you ok? You look kind of pale."

"I'm just really tired. All this running around today has me worn out," I smile at him. "Do you mind if I just go to bed?"

He lets out a sigh of relief. "No, you go ahead. I'll just get some stuff done around here and then join you." He gives me a kiss on my forehead, and I reluctantly leave him and head upstairs.

I find the pregnancy tests in his bag and take one into the bathroom. As I sit and wait for it to be done, I think about what I am going to do if it shows positive. How will I know who the father is? I'm so nervous, no wonder my stomach is a mess. I know there's only a small chance it may not be Jesse's, but I want to know for sure, to help put all the bad behind me. After a few minutes, I look over at the test on the counter one eye closed and the other squinting. I'm not sure why I think that's going to help. The test is glaring at me. 'POSITIVE', it shouts! I sit down on the floor. Oh, my God! What am I going to do?

The next morning Buck comes over with a couple of other men to remove all his furniture from the house. Once they leave Jesse and I thoroughly clean the house from top to bottom. The furniture is delivered at one o'clock that afternoon, and I am so excited to get the house to look like a home. Of course, I am exhausted once everything is in its place, but we just had to christen our new bed right away!

I have a hard time sleeping that night. I keep thinking about the fact that I am going to have a baby. I am not worried about being a mother at all, even though I wasn't planning to have any kids this early in my life. I've always wanted to have kids. I'm more worried about who the father is, but I know I'll love my baby no matter what.

In the morning, while eating breakfast, I am really quiet. "Baby? What's wrong? You're so quiet. Are you ok?" Jesse asks, looking at me concerned.

Do I tell him? I'm so scared of his reaction. I know he said we would deal with this together, and that he would love the baby no matter what but deep down, I am afraid if it isn't his, then he'll leave me.

I smile. "Everything's great! You just really wore me out yesterday. Cleaning, getting all the furniture in their right places and the sex. WOW! That really did me in." I laugh a little nervously.

He changes his concerned look to a wide grin, reaches over and cups my face rubbing circles on my cheek with his thumb. I love when he does that. "That was amazing last night. I love you so much. You know that, right?" His eyes so full of love, my heart is so full.

I sigh. How can I do this to him? What if the baby isn't his? I need to talk to someone. I need Stella. I shake off the bad feelings and give him a smile. "I love you too, so much! I'm so happy. I can't believe after everything we've been through that we are sitting in our new home and that we're together finally."

We clean up our breakfast mess, then I go up to take a shower and get dressed while he goes into his new office down the hall to do some work. Looking in the mirror, I study myself, thinking I don't look any different. Ok, maybe I am a little pale probably from my sour stomach that I can't get rid of, but I don't really feel different either.

Once I am done, I tell Jesse I am going to go do a little shopping and have lunch with Stella. He gives me a kiss that we both don't want to end, and we laugh after pulling away from each other. "We'll definitely be picking that up later. So don't be too long." He winks while giving my butt a smack.

"Oh, I'll hurry," I say breathlessly. "Can I have the keys to the car?"

He digs in the pocket of his jeans and hands me the keys as well as some money. "Get what you want, baby. Dang, that's something else we need to go shopping for. A car for you. Maybe we can do that later tonight or tomorrow, ok?" I nod, smiling and kiss him on the cheek.

I park by the strip mall and find a shop that has a lot of things to decorate with. Looking all around inside, I try to find picture frames and some things to give our house a homier feel. Once I pay for the few things I like, I decide I want to get a camera and take some pictures of us and our new life together to frame and place around the house too.

I arrive at the Café around 11:30 and find a booth. Stella comes out from the back shortly after, tells Brenda she is taking her lunch break and of course Brenda sees me and runs over to give me a hug. As Stella sits down, she looks at Brenda. "Ok, ok, you saw your girl. I'll have the turkey club and a sweet tea. Cassie?" She looks at me, expectantly.

"I'll just have the salad with chicken, please. Oh, and a Diet Coke," I ask, sweetly. She writes down our orders and walks away.

"Pumpkin, you need to eat more than that. You are skinnier than a toothpick," Stella says, shaking her head.

I laugh. "I know. Geez, it's not like you haven't told me that a gazillion times." I roll my eyes. Clearing my throat, I look around the Café. There's not many people here yet since I got here before the lunch crowd starts coming in, thank goodness. When I look at Stella the tears start to form. "Stella, I'm pregnant." I blurt. "I don't know what to do. I'm so scared. I know I'll love this baby no matter what, but I'm so afraid that when I tell Jesse, he'll want nothing to do with me, he'll want me to leave," I add quickly.

Her eyes go wide and then relax immediately. She reaches over the table and takes my hand, looking into my eyes with a small frown. "Pumpkin, it'll be ok. I can tell Jesse loves you, really loves you. Didn't you say he told you no matter who the father is that he will love the baby? And I can't see him changing his mind about you. From what you've told me, he'd do anything for you."

My head nods causing a tear to roll down my cheek. "But Stella. You know how my life has been. Something will happen to mess it up, it always does." Taking a napkin from the dispenser I wipe my nose as I sniff. "It just seems like when anything goes right in my life, something comes along and ruins it. I'm scared that will happen again. I.... I can't lose him, Stella. I love him so much. He's my heart."

"Hey, hey now. You stop this right now! I mean it, pumpkin. You're a good person. You're the most caring and loving person I know and you're gonna make a wonderful mommy and I truly believe that Jesse will be a great daddy." She pats my hand lightly. "Now, you go to the bathroom and freshen up. Go on!" She looks at me with a smile. "Everything will be just fine. Now, go on, go get cleaned up. I'm going to write down my OB's name and number for you. You need to make an appointment quick, ok, pumpkin?" I nod at her, slide out of the booth and head to the bathroom. She's right. I need to get to a doctor and tell Jesse as soon as I can. We'll get through this together.

I'm feeling a little better when I get home from lunch. Stella always has had a way to make me see things in a better way, giving me hope. When I walk into the living room, I find Jesse asleep on the couch. I get on my knees in front of him and quietly stroke his hair. He stirs, half opening his eyes, and looks into mine. Grabbing my other hand, he pulls me up until I'm on top of him, and I giggle as I get comfortable. He takes my hair that's hanging down between us and wraps it behind my ear, then he pulls me down and presses his lips to mine, both of us moaning in unison.

As our kissing continues he starts to unbutton my shirt while I tug on his t-shirt, trying to pull it up. Our mouths break away, his lean body sitting up enough to grab the back of his shirt, yanking it over his head, and throws it on the floor beside the couch. As I start to finish unbuttoning mine, he gently pushes my hands away and finishes for me. We're looking into each other's eyes as he pushes my shirt off one shoulder and then the other, our eyes never leaving each other's. His are full of love and desire as are mine. He removes my shirt completely and blindly drops it beside the couch. Still staring at each other he reaches behind me and unclasps my bra throwing it over his shoulder.

My head bends back, my eyes closing when he cups my breasts with his strong hands. My back instinctively arches, pushing my breasts into his hands more, guttural moans leaving my mouth on their own. His removes one hand, leaving that breast cold and moves it to hold onto my waist as he leans down and sucks my nipple into his mouth. My body heats up in a fury. My moans are embarrassingly loud as he nips and sucks while kneading my other breast. I grab the back of his head and pull him closer as my body flames with desire.

"Ugh! Jesse!" I fist his hair and pull his head back, hearing a POP as he releases my breast from his mouth. My eyes only half open looks into his and I shudder. "Now! Please, I need you inside me now," I beg.

He reaches underneath me, pulling a condom from his jeans pocket, and I lift my bottom up as he pulls off my jeans and panties while I begin unbuttoning his jeans. Anxiously, he removes my hands and pulls his jeans down, slides the condom down his thick cock and placing his hands on my waist. He helps me down until he's fully inside me. "Ohhh." In this position, he's much deeper in me, hitting the place that makes the hot sensation move up my body each time I move. Leaning over him my hair shrouds our faces, and I kiss him passionately. Our tongues move wildly as we both reach our climax together, and I'm left panting, collapsing onto his chest. He pumps into me a few more times as our blissful ride slowly comes back to reality.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Later that evening we're sitting around watching TV. She's been very quiet all night, lost in thoughts and making me crazy with worry. Something's going on in that beautiful head of hers. When I come back from the kitchen with popcorn, I turn to face her as I sit. "Ok, what's going on? You've been too quiet. I can tell something's eating at you. You have this faraway look on your face, and I know you haven't been paying attention to the movie, or anything else for that matter." Taking her hand in mine, I brush back some of her wayward hair and look deeply into her troubled eyes. She looks at me, tears in her eyes, and I wipe a few as they start flowing down her soft skin. "Baby, baby. What's wrong? You know you can tell me anything. You look so scared. There's nothing, nothing, we can't handle together. Please tell me." My fingers move into her hair as I continue to cup her face.

Her chin begins to quiver. "I.... I.... I took another pregnancy test yesterday." Her throat constricts as she swallows hard. "Jesse? It was positive." She searches my eyes, trying to gauge my reaction, but only finding my smile wide, my eyes gleaming with love.

Grabbing her I bring her close and into a crushing hug. "Wow! Baby! That's awesome! I'm so happy!" Coming back to my senses, I move her back quickly and grasp her shoulders. "Oh, sorry! Did I hurt you? I guess I'm just more excited than I thought." My laugh escapes my mouth loudly. A daddy. I'm gonna be a daddy. Damn, can my life get any happier?

She's just sitting there, tears still streaming and looking really confused. "You're really happy about this?" She asks timidly.

Now I'm the one that's confused. Why wouldn't I be happy? Why isn't she happy? "Why wouldn't I be happy? You're gonna have a baby. I'm ecstatic!" My eyes stare into hers that are full of uncertainty. Her brows lowered and a frown line on her forehead. My shoulders slump in defeat as I feel deflated. "You're not happy about this," I say as a statement, not a question.

Her head shakes quickly. "No, I am happy, truly. But Jesse? How will we know if it's your baby or.... Or.... "

Holding her closer, my grip tightening, I let out a breath in relief. "Baby, we'll find out but either way, it's a new life and I'll love this baby because it's a part of you. If it's not mine, we'll have other chances to have our own. Now...." I move back and look at her in concern. "You need to not worry about that, at all. You're mine and there is nothing in this world that can happen to change that. I mean it, Cassie."

She's crying harder now, reaches for me and puts her arms around my neck. "I was so scared to tell you. I can't lose you. I would rather die than lose you, Jesse." Her words muffled in my chest.

"Baby, shhhh. You'll never lose me. You're stuck with me forever. Don't you ever forget that," I tell her, laughing. I move her back a bit and study her. "Hey, now. No more tears unless they're happy tears, ok? We need to get you to a doctor soon and have them make sure everything is ok with you and the baby, right?"

Her crying has died down to sniffles now, and she's wiping her eyes with her hands. "Yes, I have a phone number for one that Stella gave me. I'm sorry that I told her first, but I needed someone to talk to."

I shake my head and smile. "No, baby. I understand and Stella's like your mom. It was good you went to her," I say as I hug her again. "I'm so proud of you, my brave girl."

As she moves back, I know she can see the tears that have gathered in my eyes. She lays her hand on my cheek. "You've saved me again, Jesse. I love you so much." Her light kiss against my skin makes my heart soar.

Pressing my lips against her forehead, I whisper, "I'll always be there when you need saving, baby. I am your savior, forever."

The next morning she calls Stella's OB, whatever the hell that is, and they were able to get her in that afternoon. She's relieved when I insist I'm going with her, and she doesn't even put up a fuss.

After she peed in a cup and was thoroughly examined, we're sitting in a small office in front of Dr. Zellar. He's an older man, gray hair, wide rimmed glasses, but looks like a nice man, almost fatherly. With a smile on his face, he rubs his hands together. "Well, congratulations are in order. It's a little too soon to determine a due date but I'm going to have you come back in two weeks to check you again. If I were to guess from what you put in your paperwork," he says, while looking at the paper, "I would say you're due sometime towards the end of December." He smiles over at Cassie and me.

I take Cassie's hand and squeeze it, looking at her with all the pride and love I'm feeling. She gives me a small smile with a little fear in her eyes.

"Here are prescriptions for prenatal vitamins and something for your upset stomach," the doctor says, leaning over, handing Cassie the scripts. He clears his throat and lays his paperwork down on his desk, pulls his glasses down a bit and looks at Cassie, his concern apparent on his face. "I'm sorry but I have to ask about this. I noticed in your information that you have been sexually assaulted recently." My eyes move to hers quickly watching her nod slowly. "Were you checked out after, was everything ok physically?"

"Um, yes. Everything was ok, Dr. Zellar but is there a way you can test to see who the baby is? You see since then we've.... Well, I've been sexually active with my boyfriend and..." Her mouth shuts, embarrassment covers her face in a pink tint.

He looks at me and then back at Cassie and smiles. "Actually, yes there is. We simply take a blood sample from you and Jesse and run a DNA test. They are very accurate with the latest technology. Also, at that time, I would like to do an ultrasound. After all the stress you've been under it's a good idea to check and make sure your baby is doing ok."

She looks at me, her smile widening on her beautiful face. Finally, we can find out for sure who the father is. Her body relaxed in relief. I look at the doctor, so many questions invading my mind all at once. "So, how far along does she need to be in order to do this test?"

The doctor smiles at both of us. "She needs to be at least nine weeks along in her pregnancy and by her test today and her information," he looks at the papers again, "she may be only a few weeks along. You can just make an appointment on your way out to have the test done in six weeks."

Cassie smiles at the doctor and then at me. "Um, Jesse? Can I have just a few minutes alone with Dr. Zellar?" Standing I nod, kiss the top of her head and leave the room.
Fifteen

"Ahem, doctor, um.... Jesse and I have only had unprotected sex once." I am so uncomfortable talking about this. "So, um, is there even a chance that the baby can be his?"

He leans forward and rests his elbows on his desk, clasping his hands. "Cassie, if you were ovulating at that time and there was no protection, then yes, the baby could be Jesse's but the test will tell us for sure. There's such a small chance that it wouldn't be because of the Morning-After-Pill you took. Try not to worry."

I'm feeling more hopeful and relieved by the time we get home. We have a quiet dinner and go to bed early. I'm exhausted, physically and mentally.

Slowly, I awake to a loud banging. It sounds like someone is beating on our front door downstairs, but I'm too groggy to tell for sure. I look over at the clock on the dresser. Three a.m.? What the fuck? Jesse stirs in the bed behind me, his arm tightening around my body.

"Who the hell can that be?" His voice croaky with sleep. I move to get up, but his arm pulls me back into him. "No, baby. You go back to sleep. I'll go get rid of whoever's knocking down our door," he says quietly. Sighing, I snuggle back into his warm body. "Um, baby?" He laughs. "You have to let me get up."

I groan. "But you're nice and warm. I'm cold and you feel so good."

Leaning over, Jesse whispers in my ear, "I'll warm you back up when I get back."

Finally, I move a bit so he can get out of bed and start to drift off as I feel the bed move as he rises, leaving me cold and lonely. I'm almost asleep when I hear him yelling. It gets eerie quiet, and I can't hear anything anymore. Ok, now I am more than curious and a little nervous. Throwing back the covers I get up, pull my robe on and head to the stairs only to stop abruptly when I look down and see Allie standing in front of Jesse. His arms are around her, and I hear her softly crying into his chest. What the hell? I watch as they walk towards the family room as I descend the stairs. Once I get there they are sitting on the couch, Allie has quieted down now and is sitting there sniffling.

On my way by I grab a Kleenex from the end table and hand it to her. She stands and envelopes me in a hug. "Oh, Cassie. I'm so sorry to wake you guys up. But.... But I didn't know where else to go." She starts crying again and I look at Jesse, who is clearly concerned for his sister.

Pushing her back to arm's length I brush some hair from her pretty face and smile sadly. "What's wrong, Allie? Are you ok?"

She shakes her head, sits back down and blows her nose. "Dad and I got in the biggest fight. I told him I wanted to leave and pursue my writing and he went crazy! He told me I would never make it writing, that I am stupid for wanting to try and if I leave his company he won't have anything to do with me ever again!" She is blubbering now through her tears, leaning her head against my shoulder as I sit down and put my arm around her trying to console her.

Jesse leaves us to get Allie a glass of water so I turn to her. "Allie, surely he doesn't mean that? What father wouldn't want anything to do with their child, really?"

Allie wipes her nose and turns to me. "Oh, Cassie. He can be so mean sometimes, especially if he doesn't get what he wants. He doesn't want me to leave his company. I am the hardest working employee he has."

Jesse returns and gives her the water, sits back down next to me, his arm moving around me pulling me closer.

"Allie, don't worry about Dad. You need to do what's best for you, what you want. Life's too short not to be happy and go after your dreams." He looks at me, whispers in my ear, and I nod, smiling. His focus moves back to Allie with a grin on his face. "We have plenty of room here, Sis. It's a perfect place to write your book and you can stay here until you get on your feet." He winks at me and smiles back at her.

Allie looks at us both, biting her nail. "Oh, I dunno. You guys are just starting out and just getting settled. You've been through so much to be together. You don't need a third wheel hanging around." She smiles shyly.

"Nonsense," I tell her, taking one of her hands in mine. "You're like the sister I always wanted. We want you to, really. We don't mind at all and you can take a bedroom in the basement, more privacy that way. It's quiet and there's a smaller room you can use as an office for writing. It's like an apartment down there. We won't even know you're here."

Allie sighs, stands and lunges at us, putting an arm around us both and pushing us into the back of the couch. "Oh! You guys are the greatest!" Jesse and I are both laughing as we struggle to remove her.

Once she releases us from her death grip, Allie sits back down beside me. Jesse looks at her and asks, "Ok, so when do you want to go and get your things?" Then he looks over at me. "I can just take her so you can get some rest, maybe start back at the Café, if you want. We'll only be gone a few days. You ok with that?" I start to nod when Allie interrupts quickly.

"No! I have all my stuff with me!" She smiles, bouncing in her seat.

"Huh? How...." Jesse begins to ask.

"I left after the fight and took everything I need. I was so mad that I had already decided to leave but it wasn't until I started driving that I decided to come here. I just needed you guys." She shrugs.

Jesse leans back into the couch, letting out a sigh and I let out a huge yawn. He laughs and kisses my head. "Ok. It's late or I should say really, really early. Why don't we get some sleep and then I'll help you unload your car in the morning?" He smiles at Allie and winks. "Late morning."

We all stand and start heading towards the stairs. "Sounds good to me. I'm beat! Thanks so much for taking me in and helping me out. I'll just go get my small bag." And with that she starts walking to the front door.

Walking quickly I catch her, giving her a big hug. "It's no problem, Allie. We're glad to help. The bed is made in the bedroom down there so go ahead and get a good night sleep. We'll talk more in the morning. I'm so glad you're here." I laugh. "Or, when we get up."

It's close to noon when Jesse fixes us a huge breakfast. He sets everything up buffet style on the island counter. "Hmmmm, everything looks and smells delicious," I say looking up at him as he holds me in his arms.

He gives my mouth a peck and then my nose. "Nothing but the best for my girls," he chuckles.

Shortly after we sit down to eat Allie walks in yawning, giving us a small wave and heads directly to the coffee maker, pours herself a cup and leans back against the counter. Taking a sip, she closes her eyes. "Hmmmm, that's just what I needed." After grabbing a plate and filling it with food she sits next to Jesse and begins to eat. "I'll cook dinner. It's the least I can do. I'll also pitch in with cleaning and whatever else you guys need me to do. I cleaned out my account on the way out of town, so I can give some money for rent too," she says with a mouth full of food. She looks at us, swallows, then smiles.

Jesse swallows while shaking his head. "Nope, not needed, Sis. Really, don't worry about that, save your money for what you really need it for. You need to buy a desk and whatever for your writing, so use it for that and any other expenses you have, ok?" I nod at him in agreement.

With tears in her eyes, she smiles. "You're the best brother I've ever had."

He laughs with a smirk. "I'm your only brother you've ever had, but thanks."

I look at him, raise an eyebrow and cock my head. He nods and winks at me knowing what I am about to say. "Um, Allie? There's something I want to tell you." He clears his throat and looks at me. "I mean that WE want to tell you." I smile and look at Allie as she turns in her seat towards me and gives me her complete attention.

"So, we found out yesterday that I'm pregnant," I say with a small smile. Allie starts to stand up, but I wave her off so she sits back down looking confused. "Allie, we're not sure yet if it's Jesse's baby, if you know what I mean. We're gonna have a DNA test done in six weeks and they'll do an ultrasound then too, just to make sure the baby is ok." I look at her with sadness in my eyes, but that doesn't stop her from jumping up, swallowing me in a hug, rocking me back and forth.

She whispers in my ear, "Congrats! Oh, my God! I'm gonna be an aunt!" She is squealing now in my ear, loudly. Owwww!! I'm gonna go deaf. I swear! Her smile is wide, her face beaming. "Cassie, I will love that baby and be the best aunt no matter what you find out. I'll be there for you all the way!" I am so relieved now. I can't believe how much support I have from my friends. I should have never doubted them.

After unloading Allie's car, we take Jesse's SUV to go find her a desk. I can't believe how full her car was. Not one more thing could have fit in there. Once she picks out her desk and accessories Jesse tells us he wants to go into the computer store next door and look around so Allie and I decide to walk down the street, telling Jesse we'll meet him at the Café in a half hour.

As Allie and I are walking down the street, she abruptly stops me with her hand on my arm, staring at a tattoo parlor called Buck's Tattoos. Original, I think to myself and grin. She looks at me and gives me a devious smile. "I've always wanted a tattoo. Let's go in and look around."

"Ok, we can go but we're not buying anything right now, Allie. We don't have time since we're meeting Jesse shortly," I smirk. She smiles, winks and nods at me. Great! She's so gonna get me in trouble.

We walk inside, and I'm mesmerized by all the tattoos adorning the walls, my body pulled to them.

"G'Day, ladies. How may I help you this fine day," a sexy deep voice says from behind me. Spinning around my eyes connect to a man with a large build, sandy brown hair that reaches to his shoulders and tattoos adorning his arms. I can only see his back as he is facing Allie.

Allie quickly looks over to me and then back at him, her face blushing, but her eyes are wide and beaming. "Um, hi. This IS a fine day," she says, grinning ear to ear. Oh my! She moves closer to him and reaches out her hand. As he takes it, she begins shaking it. "I'm Alexa. Allie to my friends." I roll my eyes and giggle. He continues to shake her hand all the while staring into her eyes.

"Well, aren't you the beaut, Miss Allie," he says in an accent that sounds familiar. Australian, maybe? She blushes so much she's beginning to look like she has a severe sunburn, and I can't help but giggle again. She's so cute and not obvious at all.

He looks over at me quickly, still shaking Allie's hand. "And what is your name, lovely lady?"

"I'm Cassie. Nice to meet you." I reach my hand out and wait for him to take mine, but he just stands there smiling at me still shaking Allie's hand. I look down at their hands and back up to his eyes, his eyes following. Recognition alights his face, and he releases her hand quickly his smile growing even wider.

"Oh! Sorry!" A sexy laugh escapes his mouth as he turns and shakes my hand. "I'm Shane Barton. Nice to meet you, lovely ladies." He drops his hand from mine, quickly.

Now that I get a better look at him can you say HOT? He's wearing black jeans and a black t-shirt. His eyes are a dark brown, so dark they almost look black. The dimple to the right of his mouth stands out when he smiles.

Turning back to Allie, he looks down her body, slowly scanning her until their eyes meet. "So," he says, rubbing his hands together. "Are either of you interested in getting a tattoo? We do fine work here."

"Actually," I speak up fast. "I've been thinking about getting a tattoo, and I actually know what I want and where but I can't for a while. Sorry. But I would like to look through your books to see if you might have what I am looking for, if that's ok?"

He turned to me and nods. "Sure! No problem. Step right over here to the counter and hopefully we have what you want. If not, if you can bring me a picture of it," he says guiding me to the counter. Allie follows us and stands next to me at the counter, bouncing up a down from her heels to her toes.

"Um, do you have any books with symbols? I know the one I want," I ask him as he bends down below the counter to retrieve the books. He nods, pulls out a book, lays it on top of the counter and opens it.

"I'll just give you ladies some time. I have another book in the back that might have what you're looking for in case that one doesn't. Be right back," he says as he turns and walks to the back of the store.

I flip the pages in the book and begin looking through a bunch of symbols. Allie nudges me on my arm. "I didn't know you wanted to get a tat. How cool! I've wanted to get one for a long time but haven't found the one that I really want to get yet. That and my dad would have freaked."

"Hey, Allie? Please don't tell Jesse. I mean I wouldn't ask you to lie to him or anything but just don't share, ok? I want to surprise him. Of course I can't get it until after the baby's born. Can you keep a secret that long?" I say while smirking.

She crosses her heart with her finger. "Mum's the word, Sista," she says winking.

"Ah! What's the secret? I won't tell," Shane says waggling his eyebrows as he walks towards us. I giggle as I look up at him and he hands me another book. I quickly begin to thumb through it and after several pages, I slam my finger down. "Oh, my God! That's it! This one right here!" We all look down at where my finger is. It's the heart shaped symbol that Jesse has on his arm, a forever symbol. Perfect!

Allie grabs the book and looks at it closer. "That's the same one Jesse has!" She smiles at me.

"I know! I want it so bad but smaller on my wrist." She nods her approval, and I turn to Shane. "Can I get this one but smaller to put on my wrist?"

Shane turns the book around to face him, then looks at me as he reaches for my hand. Bringing my arm up close to him, he places his hand on my forearm studying my wrist. "Hmmm, sure, that would actually work really well there."

"Well, now you know my secret," I giggle again, not being able to stop. "I don't want my boyfriend to know about it until after I get it." I swallow hard and look down. Boyfriend? Well, yeah, I guess he is my boyfriend. I've just never said it out loud before. Sounds really great! I smile to myself. Sigh.

Allie points to a page and squeals. "OH, MY GOD! I found one I want!" I look down at where she is pointing. It's a symbol for everlasting love, a detailed design in the middle down through the center and coming out at each side. It's really quite beautiful.

Shane looks at it and then back up at Allie. "That's one of my best designs for everlasting love. Your boyfriend will really like that." His frown is apparent as he looks at her.

She looks down and speaks softly. "I don't have a boyfriend. I want it because I write romance novels and I love that symbol." He clears his throat, and I can tell he is trying not to smile. He looks like he's relieved? Hmmmm. They are both just too cute.

"Can I schedule to have that one done, please?" Allie asks sweetly. He nods and proceeds to ask her how big she wants the design and where she wants it, and she tells him not too big, but she would like to have it on her back right below her left shoulder blade. Shane smiles and they make the appointment for a couple of days later. She looks at me, excitement all over her face. "I'm gonna keep this a secret too and surprise Jesse," she giggles. I roll my eyes and smile. Yeah, she better lose the excitement quick, or she'll blow it for both of us.

We tell Shane goodbye and walk to the Café to meet Jesse for dinner. Of course, I can't walk in without giving my girls and Stella hugs. Peter waves from the kitchen and winks at me. We have a nice dinner and talk about Jesse's purchase of a new laptop for Allie in which she accepts and hugs Jesse. Between all the shopping today and meeting Shane, she's left smiling all night.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Allie is settling into her room while Cassie and I snuggle on the couch talking when my phone rings. I reach over her retrieving it from the coffee table and swipe the front to unlock it. "Oh. It's Dad. I'll take it in the other room. Something tells me it's not gonna be a pleasant call."

She grabs my arm as I stand, my head turning to look down at her. "You know you don't have to leave unless you want to." Her beautiful face lighting up with her gorgeous smile. Bending down I kiss her on the top of her head.

"I know, baby. It's ok. I won't be but a few minutes." Giving her a smile back, I leave the room. Holding the phone to my ear, I walk into the kitchen but have to pull it away quickly when Dad starts yelling and bombarding me with all things Allie. I'm so pissed by the time he's done, I shut my phone off, kiss my girl goodnight, and tell her I'm heading to bed. But before I get a chance to leave Allie walks into the room.

She's standing with her arms crossed over her chest in a huff. "Geez, Jesse. I could hear you yelling all the way down in my office. Don't tell me, that was Dad."

Looking down I shake my head, raising my eyes up to hers. "Yeah, he wants you to come home, says you won't take his calls. He thinks you've gone insane or something." I chuckle. "I told him to let you be, to let you do what you need to do."

"And? What did he say," she asks questioningly.

A big sigh leaves me. "You know him. He's pissed. Says you should get your ass back there and get back to work."

She shakes her head sadly, looking at her feet, but when she looks up, she's determined. "Yeah, well that isn't gonna happen. I'm my own boss now and I say what I will do and won't do." She stomps her foot on the floor, and I couldn't be more proud of her.

"I get ya. But you know he'll come here eventually and try to get you back home." He did that once, of course, she was little and was running away from home. My mind remembering her little packed bag, her doll squeezed under her arm and her blanket in tow.

She sighs, "Yeah, I know." With her head down she walks out of the room, heading back down to her room.

Cassie's hand brings my mind back to her as she touches my arm softly. "It'll all work out. Allie's a strong woman and we'll be here to help her. I have faith." Her smile is soft and sweet. I reach down, my arms going under her legs and around her waist, and I bring her up against me. My mouth finds hers, and she turns off the lights as I take her upstairs to our room.
Sixteen

A couple of days have gone by, and I'm back at work at the Café. I'm getting excited to go with Allie tomorrow to watch her get her tattoo. Maybe it will make me less nervous when I finally get mine. After an exhausting day, I go home, put my feet up on the couch and fall asleep. I awake to the smooth feeling of my feet being massaged. Oh, my! That's nice. Opening my eyes slowly I see Jesse, his face all scrunched up as he concentrates on my feet in his lap. "Hmmmm, that feels so good, babe." A little moan leaves my mouth midsentence. His eyes go directly to mine, his mouth forming into that award winning grin. So sexy!

"I thought your feet could use a good massage after being on them all day." Damn, I'm a lucky girl.

After dinner, Jesse decides to do some work, so he heads into his office while Allie and I are lazing around in the family room. "Will you go with me tomorrow to get my tattoo?" Allie half whispers to me.

I nod, grinning about our secrets. "Of course I will! I can't wait to see it!"

"I can't wait to get it done," she says, bouncing in her seat. Shit, she has a lot of energy.

I roll my eyes. "Yeah, you can't wait to see Shane again." I sing his name and then giggle, but stop as a pillow hits me in my face. "Hey, watch it!" I yell laughing.

"What's so funny?" Jesse asks, walking into the room with a glass of iced water for me. I sit up quickly from my slouched position and reach for the glass. "Oh, um, nothing." I start giggling again. "Allie's just being goofy." I look at her and slightly shake my head while setting my glass down on the coffee table. Her eyes are wide as she looks at me and slowly nods, then winks.

"Yep, that's me goofy," she said as she stands. "Well, I'll see you guys in the morning. I'm beat." She lets out a fake yawn. Real subtle.

He takes her place on the couch, picks me up, and sets me on his lap so that I'm straddling him. Taking my face in his hands, he presses his mouth against mine, kissing me good and hard. "Mmmmm. So what was that all about?" He asks, his lips still against my mouth.

I sit back a bit. "What do you mean? She was just being silly, you know, throwing pillows at me. That kind of stuff." He's gonna find out, he's too good and will figure it out. I just know it.

He leans into me, kissing me again, deeper until I moan. "Ummm, hmmmm. Just what kind of stuff?" He asks, his lips still against my mouth.

I push against him a little as I kiss him back. "Mmmmm, just girl silly stuff." Dang, he's nosy, but he can keep trying to get it out of me this way all he wants.

"Mmmmm." Kiss. "Mmmmm. So there's nothing you want." Kiss. "To tell me?" Kiss.

Our kissing begins to get more heated, with so much passion now I can't talk even if I wanted to. Which I don't. We stop, our foreheads pressed together, breathing hard. I lunge at him, kissing him hard again as he picks me up, wrapping my legs around his slim waist and locking my ankles, he carries me up to our bedroom as fast as he his legs can carry us. Laying me on our bed, he covers me with his body, never breaking our kiss. His hand reaches the bottom of my shirt, slowly sliding underneath and stops. His mouth leaves mine. My eyes open quickly to find him staring at me. "Tell me. Tell me what you two are up to." What?

I look into his playful eyes, mine are in disbelief. "Huh? What?" He kisses me again, getting my body all heated with desire, then he pulls away again and whispers, "It's ok, baby, you can tell me." Oh, my God! Seriously? He wants to have a conversation now?

I look at him incredibly dumbfounded. "I don't have anything to tell you, babe. Seriously!" So what does he do? He starts tickling me. I'm laughing and squirming, his body not giving me any room to run. "Jesseeeeee! Jesseeeeee, stopppppp!" I'm laughing so hard now I can hardly talk. "I'm.... I'm.... I'm gonna peeeeee if you don't stooppp!" I am dying here!

He is laughing so hard now too that he falls over onto the bed by my side, and I roll with him as we continue to laugh, breathing heavy in our exertion. "Oh, my God! My sides hurt!" I choke out still laughing so hard. We lay there tangled up in each other's arms and legs, our laughter dying down as we stare at each other.

He reaches over, brushing hair away from my face and then lays his hand over my cheek. "I love you so much," he whispers.

I lean over and kiss him, my hand on his broad chest. "I love you too, Jesse. So much."

Allie and I walk into Buck's Tattoo Parlor around eleven o'clock the next morning. I think I'm more nervous than she is. "Ahem, can I help you all with something?" A sexy, deep voice says from behind. We both turn around and see a tall young man with tattoos down one arm and shaggy black hair down to his shoulders. His eyes are dark brown and oh, is he a sexy thing. He's wearing black leather pants and a vest with no shirt on, showing his broad sculpted chest. His brow raised, and a sexy smile on his face. Sexiness is crawling out of the woodwork here.

Reaching over I push Allie's mouth closed, her head turning as she smirks. "Yes, my name is Cassie Morelli and this is Allie Richards. She has an appointment with Shane."

He nods, walks over to the counter and looks at the appointment book laying there. "Yep, she sure does," he smiles. "Shane should be back in a couple of minutes. He went over to the coffee shop to get us some caffeine fixes."

"Thanks, we'll just sit here and wait," Allie says as she walks over to the seats in the front, pulling my arm. He walks around the counter, leaning against it as he crosses his arms and legs then winks at me. Is he flirting?

"Name's Tucker, some call me Tuck." He looks directly at me, shooting his intense eyes into mine.

Cocking my head, giving Allie my 'What the fuck?' look, she shrugs, then looks at him and clears her throat. "Nice to meet you, Tucker," she says, showing her 'I'm not interested' look.

"Nice to meet you both too. We're new in town, just opened up a few weeks ago," he says smiling at me again.

I shift in my seat, feeling really uncomfortable now. "Yeah, I know. My boyfriend and I are renting a house from Buck," I say, smiling, getting my determination up, and letting him know I'm good and taken.

He looks at me with a blank look as Shane walks in as I finish talking. He looks at Tucker, back at me, then at Tucker, shakes his head and laughs. He walks over to Tucker and slaps him on the back. "Tuck, I see you met Allie and Cassie. Back off, boy. That one's taken," he says, pointing at me. Tucker stands up straight and winks at us as Shane takes us back to his room, pointing to a restroom on the way where Allie can change into a robe. When she comes back, she lays on his chair, face down, then Shane pulls her robe down uncovering only her left upper back and applies her tattoo stencil. I'm biting my bottom lip and holding Allie's hand as he works on her tattoo. Once he's done, he tells Allie she can look in the full length mirror on his wall. He helps her from the table, she walks to the mirror, turns slightly and gasps.

"Oh, wow! That's incredible. I love it!" She runs over to him and hugs him. He looks at me startled, but then shrugs and puts his arms around her. It seems they're that way for quite a while until he clears his throat and moves over to a table by the chair. He goes over the aftercare with her, places gauze over it and we leave to go home.

"Are you going to show it to Jesse when we get home?" I ask her as I watch the road in front of me. She looks over at me and smiles.

"Yes! I am so excited to show him," she says almost bouncing in her seat.

"So now you can tell me. Did it hurt a lot?" I ask, biting my lower lip.

She shrugs slightly. "Not really. I mean yes but not so bad that I wouldn't do it again." Hmmmm, ok then. Maybe it won't be so bad when I have mine done.

Jesse is putting lunch on the table when we walk in. "Yum, salad with chicken, fruit, bread and veggie tray. This is amazing!" Picking up a carrot, I pop it in my mouth and give him a peck on his luscious lips. After lunch, I'm rinsing off dishes, when he grabs my wrist, turning me around. "Jesse! I almost dropped the glass in the sink!" My giggles coming out in full force.

"I just missed you, baby," he says as he kisses me, my arms wrapping around his neck, fingers threading into his hair.

"Ok you guys," Allie says, walking to the fridge with leftovers. Our heads move towards her, our lips still connected. "Jesse, I have something to show you." With that, she starts and pulls her shirt over her left shoulder.

Jesse looks really uncomfortable. "Wait! Wait! You're my sister! What are you doing?"

I laugh as she continues. "It's not what you think you pervert," she yells. Once she has pulled it down enough, she pulls off the gauze and turns around showing Jesse.

He reaches out and lightly touches it. "Sis, that's actually really cool! What is that a symbol of?"

She smiles. "It means everlasting love. I wanted something that would remind me of the romance novels I am writing and that there is such a thing. Even though you and I both know I don't do the relationship thing." Now she looks annoyed.

I put my hand on her arm. "Oh, Allie! There's a soul mate out there for you. I know there is." Then I turn my head to look at Jesse. "Love just finds you when you least expect it." He smiles and mouths 'I love you'.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

I watch from the kitchen as my tired Cassie walks in from work, sits down on the couch, putting her feet up on the coffee table and groans. Her head lies back against the couch, and her eyes close as I walk softly towards her. The couch dips as I sit next to her, my smile huge as one of her eyes open slowly. Her head turns slightly, the other eye opens and we just sit there in silence gaping at each other. "What?" Keeping quiet I take her hand and pull her up. "Jesse? What are you doing? I'm tired," she whines as I pull her towards the stairs.

"I know, baby, but I have a surprise for you. Now, go upstairs, take a hot shower and put on some comfortable clothes. It'll be worth it. I promise."

She's so cute with the confused look on her face. "Huh? Why? What are we doing?" She tries to pull away from me, but I turn her cute body, push her all the way up the stairs and to our bathroom. She doesn't fight me or try to find out anymore. While she takes her shower, I lay out a pair of sweatpants, sweatshirt, socks, panties and bra for her, placing them on the bathroom counter. There! All is going according to my plan.

I've got her present out front and the grocery sack packed by the time she makes it downstairs and into the family room, her confusion back when she looks at me. "Hurry, baby! Go put on some shoes! We have to go or we'll be late."

"Late? Late for what? Jesse, what the hell?" She asks as she starts putting on her shoes. Her tennis shoes are barely tied when I pull her up with one hand while holding the sack in the other, her small feet hardly keeping up with me in my excitement to get her outside. Finally, we get out the front door, and as soon as I lock it, I'm pulling her down the front walk. When we turn the corner of the driveway, she stops dead in her tracks, pulling my arm in her abruptness. Her eyes are wide with shock, her mouth hanging open.

"Surprise! Do you like it?" I ask excitedly but my enthusiasm quickly wavers as she just stands there, not speaking or moving, like she's in shock.

She finally closes her mouth, and I drop the sack to the ground when she jumps up on me, squealing, my arms quickly wrapping around her, my hands cupping her tiny butt. "Oh, my God, Jesse! What did you do? I freaking love it!" I'm laughing but feeling relief as she chokes me, squeezing me so tightly.

I take her arms that are choking me and gently pull them, so they're looser and start laughing. She starts sliding down my body. Her breasts pressed firmly against me as she moves, our bodies staying interlocked, my eyes following her movements. "I hope you like it. I think it's perfect for you and, soon, for our family. It's an early birthday present."

Her head turns to look at it again, my eyes following as we just stand there staring at the red Jeep Cherokee in the driveway. Reaching up I take her hand and tug her over to the Jeep, unlocking it as we go. I open the drivers door for her, leading her into the seat. Hanging one arm over the open door, the other resting on her head rest, I lean over and kiss the top of her head. "It's fully loaded. Everything is automatic, radio, Bluetooth for your phone, CD, sunroof, well just everything."

She looks up quickly and laughs. "My phone? What phone?"

I cock my eyebrow and tilt my head. "You might want to check the glove box in the arm rest there," I smirk.

Her body shifts, opens the arm rest and pulls out her new cell phone. "Jesse, I love all this but, babe, this is too much."

I reach in, pull her out of the car and hold her tightly. "No, this is only the beginning. I told you I was gonna spoil you." I kiss her lips, the shocked look on her face still there. "And I meant it." My mouth finds hers again, our kiss becoming heated quickly. Her moan invades my mouth, and my cock starts twitching. I have to make myself stop, or we'll be late. My laugh moves into her mouth. "Nope, not yet. All in good time. Right now? We're going to the drive-in. I packed all kinds of stuff to eat and drink. Do you want to drive?"

Her shocked look morphs, her brows crease in confusion. "Jesse, is the drive-in even open yet? It's not quite spring yet, it's still cold outside."

My eyebrows waggle at her playfully. "I have connections. This, my love, is a private showing. Now, go. Get in the drivers seat." My hand smacks her cute butt lightly as I move to go around the other side of the car.

Her hand grabs my bicep stopping me, the huge smile on her face worth everything it took to keep this all a surprise. "No, I want to enjoy my new car so you get to drive."

We have a great time at the drive-in, eating, laughing and to be honest, I don't even know what movie was playing. My eyes were only on one thing. My girl. She fell asleep before the movie was over, I ended up carrying my sleepy girl upstairs and put her to bed. Best night ever!
Seventeen

The next afternoon we went to the mall, walking around hand in hand, having some great alone time. When we arrive home and walk in the front door, we hear talking in the family room and go to investigate. There sits Shane with Allie on the couch, turning their heads as we walk in. Allie stands up quickly. "I hope you don't mind that I invited Shane over." I shake my head. Cassie is nudging my arm with hers.

"Of course not! This is your house too as long as you're staying here," Cassie smiles. My head turns of its own accord at Cassie, my eyes wide and brow raised. She turns to me, her smile never wavering, and I nudge her arm, her hand covering her mouth as a giggle escapes.

Allie looks at me, bouncing her feet in excitement and nervousness. "Jesse, this is Shane. Shane, this is Jesse." She looks back and forth between us and finally gives me 'the look' tilting her head towards the strange man sitting on my couch.

Shane stands and walks over to me, his hand extended to shake my hand. "Nice to meet ya, mate," Shane says. Ok, I'm a nice guy and all but this is my sister we're talking about here. My eyes roam his tall body, landing on his face. I've had to beat up some of her past relationships, men only wanting one thing from her. Her luck hasn't been so great in that department, so I'm really leery.

Plastering on my fake smile, I give in and shake his hand. "You're not from around here, are you?" His head lowers, a smile on his face and his hand smoothing over his chin. Is he trying not to laugh?

Shane laughs. "Well, actually I live in the apartments across town," he smirks. "But um, I was born in Australia but I've lived in the States most of my life. However, my accent creeps in at times." He laughs again. I cross my arms over my chest and puffing it out a bit. Yeah, not sure I trust the guy yet. Seems friendly enough but I dunno. Movement from the corner of my eye makes me shift to see Allie's arms mimicking mine. Her stance is her best 'huff' position. She's glaring at me then her face softens, and a pleading look appears. Damn, Sister.

I look over at Cassie, her body in the same position. Her brows are creased, and her eyes are telling me to give him a chance. Women! Ganging up on me. My body relaxes, my arms unfolding and hang by my side. "Well, nice to meet you, Shane. Hope to see you around sometime." That's all I can muster right now.

We all sit around, talk and drink for a while. Well, we all drink alcohol, but Cassie's drinking water. The more we talk, the more I am liking Shane. He seems to be an ok guy, pretty genuine, but he'd better not ever hurt my sister that's all I gotta say. I finally ask Shane to stay for dinner, then I head out back to start the grill. My eyes keep watch as Allie and Shane seem to share these little secret eye contacts and smiles with each other. Yeah, so better watch yourself. During dinner as we chat to get to know Shane better, I keep finding out more and more about things that apparently the girls know, but I've been in the dark about.

"So, what's Tucker like? He seems kind of, um, rough around the edges," Cassie asks Shane, my brow raising at her. Who the hell is Tucker? I watch his brows fold in. His face gives a little frown, then he turns to her.

"Ah, well, Tuck has had sort of a rough life growing up. Parents were druggies. He fell in with the wrong crowd at school. Ya know that kind of thing. But he's a good mate, would do anything in the world for ya. Great tattoo artist and plays in a band on the side. Has a really good voice." His face chances into displaying proudness.

I look down when I feel Cassie's hand on my knee, her beautiful face smiling as I look at her and my heart swells. "He's the other tattoo artist whom we met when Allie got her tattoo." Ah, this is making more sense now. I wasn't worried. She squeezes my knee, then turns back to Shane, excitement on her face. "Oh! He plays in a band? What kind of music? I love live bands."

He looks at her and smiles. "Well, now. They are a classic rock band. The crowd's really love them and they get them all revved up when they play. They play over at Barton's Bar, most weekends. I know the owner personally if ya wanna go sometime and see them. I can get ya in for free." He winks at her. Winks? What the hell, ok, I'm leery again. Doesn't take much for me. Sue me. I grumble a little, under my breath, her hand squeezes my knee again and my eyes shoot over to her, looking at her pleading face and I relax again. Damn, I can't deny her anything.

"Is that the place that was closed down for so long on the corner by the coffee shop?" She asks, Shane immediately nods, giving her that smile again.

Allie screeches. "Oh! We have to go! When do they play next?" Great! Now we get to be dragged to a bar, what next? When did I get to be such a party pooper? Oh, yeah. When I met the love of my life, rescued her, watched as she was almost killed and is now carrying a baby. That'll do it.

Shane gives Allie a wide grin, leaning close to her. "They happen to play tomorrow night, if ya wanna go." She looks at me, at Cassie then back at me, giving me her best puppy dog look and then to top it off, I look at Cassie, and she has the same look. These women are gonna be the death of me. I swear. I hear Shane laughing as I push my chair out and start picking up the dirty dishes.

"Well, I guess we're going out tomorrow night," I say matter of fact. Allie and Cassie both jump up and down in their chairs. Lord help me. I hope I don't have to beat anyone up tomorrow night. I'm getting too old for this shit.

The next night we head for the bar, it's freezing and starting to snow. Hope it's the last snow of the season since spring starts in a week. We get to the bar, there's only a short line out front to get in. When we get up to the front of the line I've got my money out to pay when Shane appears out of nowhere next to the bouncer. "Nope, they get in free, anytime they come. Got me?" The burly bouncer nods and opens the rope keeping everyone out, waving us through. "Follow me," Shane says, then leads us to a big round booth in the corner that has a 'Reserved' sign on the table. It's to the left of the stage with a great view. "Best seats in the bar." Allie smiles at him, and I swear I saw her batting her eyes at him. I roll my eyes as I help Cassie into the booth, her eyes shining while looking at Allie.

Finally, we are all seated and a waitress comes to our table. Her tank top extremely low cut not leaving anything to the imagination. Her breasts almost spilling out, the bar's name across the front and the shortest shorts I've ever seen. She gives me a sexy grin, then a wink. Out of the corner of my eyes, I see Cassie glaring at her, and I turn to our waitress, giving her a wink back. Hey, I'm just being friendly. Giving her our drink orders and giving her another smile, she leaves and my head fully turns to Cassie, seeing her glare hardening at me. What the hell? Giving her my full attention, my arm moving around her, I squeeze her shoulder, and she's still giving me that hard glare. "Ahem, what's wrong, baby?" I ask casually, her head turning away from me.

"Oh, nothing." Her arms cross, my eyes moving down watching her girls push up making me shift in my seat to move my cock that's pressing against my jeans to get free. Damn, it has a one track mind.

A chuckle escapes my mouth while pulling her close into my side. I lean down to her ear, whispering softly, "Baby, don't. I only have eyes for you. Only you." Then I kiss the top of her head, my lips lingering there, her head lifts and mine bends down as our mouths connect immediately. When she releases mine, she lets out a big sigh.

"I'm sorry. I guess my hormones are already going a little crazy," she says with a little laugh.

My arm tightens around her shoulder. "Hey." My hand cups her chin, bringing her beautiful glowing face up so I can look into her eyes. "Your hormones may be a little crazy but you aren't. I love you and there is no one else in the world that I would rather be with than you. That will never, ever change." I flick her nose with my finger and smile. "Know that. Trust that. Believe that." Her eyes fill with tears and her sweet smile appears as we just sit there looking at each other. We're in our own little world, all the noise of the bar doesn't enter our bubble, all the people walking around, talking, laughing, nothing invades our world until....

"What's going on, you two? Quit with the lovey dovey eyes," Allie laughs, pushing against Cassie's side moving her against me even more. I look at Allie and give her my 'we want to be alone look' and she gives me a smirk. "The band's gonna be on soon. Join the rest of the world, will ya?"

Cassie and I give each other another kiss, then turn back to enjoy our friends. We have plenty of time to enjoy each other later. The rest of our lives. "So, how is it you can tell the bouncer to always let us in free, Shane?" I ask looking at Shane then take a swig of my beer.

"Ahem, well, I actually own the place," he answers quietly. He has my full attention now. He shifts in his seat as everyone looks at me in shock. "It was my old man's but he decided to move to Florida and sell it so I bought it from him, fixed it up, changed it a little and then started having bands play on the weekends. It's just taken off." He shrugs his shoulders, then takes a big drawl from his beer.

"Wow. That's great. I'm impressed," I tell him as I reach over and slap him on his shoulder. I actually am impressed, anyone who has good business sense, be his own man, is ok in my book. Maybe Allie's finally found someone worth keeping this time. He still better be good to her though. Being your own boss, making good money, doesn't mean you're a good guy.

Shane smiles. "Thanks, mate." A loud scream makes Cassie jump. Apparently, the band is coming onto the stage. My muscles flex in my arm as I tighten my hold around her. Guess it's time for the loud music and screaming women. This oughta be interesting.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Tucker saunters out first with an electric guitar hanging from its strap around his neck, followed by three other members of the band. They all seemed to be adorned with tattoos all in different areas of their bodies, some have piercings and the drummer has a Mohawk. Tucker stands in front of the microphone and screams, "HELLO, BARTON'S BAR!!" Screaming ensues and is so loud I swear I lose my hearing. "HOW'S EVERYONE TONIGHT?" More deafening screams. "YOU READY TO PARTY WITH US?" Now there's a crowd of women and a few men who are standing on the floor in front of the stage. The women are screaming and jumping up and down in excitement. He turns his head at the rest of the band and nods. The drummer hits his sticks a few times, and the music begins.

Their music is great! I don't know this song and wonder if it's an original of theirs. We sit and listen to the band play for an hour until they announce they're taking a break. "YOU ALL ROCK!" Tuck shouts into the microphone. The crowd roars. "WE'LL BE BACK IN A FEW SO GET YOUR DRINKS ON AND BE READY TO PARTY WHEN WE RETURN!" The crowd screams again and oh, my God! I'm never going to be able to hear again! Making his way to our booth, he gets mobbed by a ton of women, stopping to chat here and there and finally slides in our booth, picks up a beer and chugs it.

"Whew! Great crowd tonight," he says, looking around at us, Shane patting his back.

"You really bring them in for us, kid. Business has really picked up since you all started playing here. I appreciate that, mate." He smiles as Tuck takes another big gulp of beer then our waitress is quick to bring him another one, setting it on the table in front of him, winking, and she saunters away.

Tuck picks up a shot glass the waitress left, tilts his head back and slams it down. Jesse reaches his hand out to Tuck, they shake. "Jesse. Great music, are they all your own songs?" He smiles, nods, then shakes his head.

"Tuck, nice to meet you. It's just something I do in my spare time. I get these words in my head and have to write them down. Doesn't matter what I'm doing at the time."

Shane laughs. "Yeah, kind of bizarre. He'll be working on a tat on someone and all of a sudden he stops, jumps up and runs to get his pad and pen." He laughs again. "Good thing we have nice customers who don't mind him not coming back to finish for twenty minutes or longer sometimes." Tuck gives him a cocky grin, then laughs, all of us joining in.

Jesse stops laughing, looks at me, winks, then looks back at Tuck. What's he up to? "Do you ever hire out or play at functions?" Oh! What a great idea! They'd be fantastic at Jesse's charity events. Why didn't I think of that?

Tuck shrugs his shoulders. "I'm sure we could but well, no one's ever asked that before." He picks up another beer and drinks until half of it is gone.

Jesse smiles. "Well, I own a company that helps organize charity functions for mega corporations and I know a few who would love your music. You have a great sound and style, who knows, there might be some good publicity at some of those and some people who might be interested in your band. Would you and your band be interested?" He leans in closer and smiles. "There's good money to be made just playing at these as well."

Tuck looks at Shane but talking to Jesse. "Not sure my boss would let me take off to travel. He can be kind of strict." He bumps Shane with his shoulder, his cocky grin in place.

Shane smiles at him, putting his hand on Tuck's shoulder. "Tuck, my man, if you need to travel just let me know in advance so Buck and I can cover for ya. I don't see any problems with that." Tuck laughs and takes another swig.

Smiling Jesse turns his attention back to Tuck. "Well, I guess I'll make some calls and see where that goes."

Tuck looks concerned and says, "Um, maybe I better get with my band first. Make sure everyone is up on this, but I think they all will be. Let you know?" Jesse smiles and nods.

About an hour later I start feeling ill. My body is freezing and then it turns hot. Not sure if it's the loud music, the heat in the bar due to the crowd or what. "Baby, you ok? You look really pale," Jesse asks in my ear. His hand presses against my forehead and I feel like I am going to be sick, so I just shake my head a little, afraid to open my mouth to speak. He puts his arm around me, but all I can do it look at him. "Ok. You're making me nervous. Baby? Can you answer me?"

Pushing on his side, one hand covering my mouth, he quickly jumps out of the booth, pulling me up with him, and I jog around the corner and into the women's bathroom, barely in time to get into a stall, kneel and lose everything I've eaten that day. By the time I'm dry heaving, I hear Allie behind me talking quietly with soothing words, rubbing my back and holding my hair away from my face. I sway a little when I stand, dizziness sweeps through me. Next thing I know I'm in Jesse's arms. He's kissing my head and walking out through the bar to the entrance. "Allie, can you get her purse and bring it to my car? Thanks." I hear him talking, but I'm so tired it's getting hard to keep my eyes open, so I don't.

I'm in the 'right before you wake up' state, feeling something cold and wet on my forehead. When I open my eyes, Jesse is sitting beside me on the bed with a frown on his face. I reach up and rub the frown lines on his forehead. "Jesse," I croak, my voice hoarse. "What's wrong? Are you ok?"

He takes the washcloth off my forehead and puts the back of his hand against it. "You just about passed out at the bar, baby. Do you remember?" My eyebrow's crease over my eyes as I shake my head. Almost passed out? I remember Tuck, the band, the loud screaming and music, the skanky waitress and Jesse talking to Tuck about playing at some of his charity events. I feel like my mind is in a fog about anything after that.

"You've been running a little fever but you really have been making me nervous with how deep you've been sleeping. You feel a little cooler now, though. How are you feeling?" He gives me his gorgeous smile, but I can still see the concern on his handsome face.

I yawn big and smile. "I think I feel better, just really tired. What time is it?" He looks over at the clock on the nightstand. "It's almost five o'clock in the morning." He smiles, I can see how tired his eyes are.

"Babe, thank you for taking care of me but come to bed. I'm ok. I promise and you'll be right here with me." He nods, pulling off his shirt and jeans, only his boxers remaining, climbs in bed beside me, and I roll over to him, wrapping my arm around his waist. Kissing his chest, my body snuggles as close as I can get to him. His hand presses against my forehead. His lips kiss me there and then my eyes close.
Eighteen

I called Stella the next morning and told her I had a bug and probably wouldn't be at work Monday. She told me not to worry about it and not think about coming in on Tuesday, unless I felt 100% better and to let her know. So I laid around all day Sunday on the couch napping on and off. Jesse took care of me, bringing me soup, 7-up, Kleenex and lots of kisses. Every time he came in to bring me anything or just to check on me, he was always kissing my forehead, my cheek or the top of my head. I feel so loved and cared for. By Monday afternoon, I pretty much feel back to normal and am so bored I'm about to scream. I am sick of watching TV, so I go upstairs, creep down the hallway towards Jesse's office and open the door slightly. Since his desk faces the window, I can only hear his fingers tapping on his laptop. Quietly, I push the door open and walk into the room until I'm standing behind him, wrap my arms around his chest and start kissing him on his neck. He bends his neck to the left to allow me better access, and I take full advantage.

"Mmmmm." His moan loud in the small room. "Shouldn't you be resting?" Shaking my head, my mouth keeps kissing as I move around him, his chair pushes back, and I climb onto his lap, straddling him. He places his arms around me putting one hand on my lower back, the other on the back of my head.

"Mmmm, no...." Kiss. "I'm done...." Kiss. "Resting." My mouth moves down to his chest as I open his shirt, kissing his hot flesh. He moans when I open his shirt further, continuing my kissing trail over his left peck, then the right, circling my tongue around his nipple then nipping it causing his body to shudder. His hand on my lower back moves around to the front and up my body until he is massaging my right breast. This time it's my moan I hear as my teeth lightly bite his now peaked nipple, my body craving more.

"Damn, I wish you hadn't gotten dressed today," he says as he tries to pinch my nipple through my bra. In one quick moment, I sit up, pull my t-shirt over my head, remove my bra and discard them on the floor. He leans down immediately and begins sucking and biting my nipple. Throwing my head back, my moan escapes, my long hair lying on his arm around me as the sensations and tingles flow through me.

My head rises, my eyes half closed as I'm mesmerized watching his mouth move to my other nipple to give it some attention. I reach down to rub his cock through his jeans, feeling it grow with every move and squeeze. His head rises quickly, his mouth capturing mine while his hand moves up grasping my neck and causing our mouths to press harder. Never breaking our kiss, he lifts up from the chair, standing, he carries me to our bedroom, laying me across the bed, helps me to remove the rest of our clothes in a frenzy then is on top of me. Our kiss breaks as he leans up from me looking deeply into my eyes, searching them. "Baby, we can't hurt the baby doing this, right?" His question full of concern and worry. "Or you either, right?"

I look up at him, brush his fallen hair out of his eyes and smile. "No, honey, this won't hurt either of us, I promise. Just please, please love me. Make love to me, please," I whisper, my voice leaving me as the fire inside burns, the need for friction starting to make me crazy with desire.

That was all the encouragement he needed, his cock pushing into me in one hard thrust, our moans equally loud. "Baby, you feel so good," he moans against my mouth. We rock together as he leans down sucking one of my nipples into his luscious mouth, his hand gliding over my hot and sweaty skin until his thumb suddenly presses on my clit and beings rubbing. My skin is flushed, and my muscles stiffen as my climax reaches its peak, my muscles clamping around his cock as my orgasm takes over my body. The high starts to dissipate, but then he pulls my legs up and over his shoulders allowing his cock to push in even deeper and with every thrust, it starts hitting the place that keeps me soaring longer. As my body starts to wind down another orgasm overtakes me as he thrusts harder. He moans, and stops moving. His body starts to shudder, then he moves slowly as we ride out our bliss together. I watch him close his eyes, with his head tilted back, his body twitching. Perfect. He's gorgeous, and he's all mine.

Once his breathing slows he leans down, kisses me softly, looking into my eyes. His eyes full of love for me. I wish I could take a picture of him this way. Beautiful. Smoothing my hair with his hand, he whispers, his chest still heaving slightly. "You have the most beautiful cum face I've ever seen. I love watching you as you cum. So sexy."

I smile and laugh a little. "Um, just how many cum faces have you seen?"

He looks at me seriously. "Baby, I haven't been with very many women, honest. And never, never without a condom until you, only you."

My mouth drops open. "Wow! Really? Ever?" I question, tracing his face, around his eyes, his nose, over each lip and then across his chiseled jaw.

His eyebrows gather together. "Yes, ever." Then his frown turns into a smile. He leans over and kisses me, our mouths moving in time with each other. He pulls back up looking at me tenderly. "I love you so much, Cassie." My heart begins to race as he stares into my eyes. Everything still, no sounds but our breathing. "Marry me." It wasn't a question. What? Huh? Did I just hear him right? Through my lust filled head I could have sworn he just asked me to marry him. I looked at him, cocking my head in confusion.

"Uh, what?" I must be dreaming. That's what it is. Dreaming. We just had the best sex ever. My body is still hot with desire, so it must be clouding my mind.

His smile is all teeth as he looks at me. "Marry me, Cassie. I love you. Marry me. We'll see if we can buy this house or hell we'll build a house however you want it, whatever you want. I love you." His beautiful eyes leave mine as his head moves down, kissing my stomach, then back up to gaze into my eyes again. "I love our baby. We can have more kids. We can get a dog!" Oh my! He's getting carried away. I start laughing, my hand covering my mouth quickly when he looks down and frowns.

"Awwwww. No, babe. Honey, I'm not laughing at you. Well, ok, I am a little, but, honey, you're moving a little fast and getting a little carried away here," I say quickly trying to get his frown to turn back into a smile. I cup his face in my hands, my eyes searching his. "I love you too. More than anything. But can we slow down, just a bit? We still haven't found out the test results and I feel weighed down with that right now. It's not that I don't want to marry you, but can I have just a little time," I ask holding up a hand with my finger and thumb just a little bit apart.

He smirks at me. "Well, ok, I guess I can give you a little time." He holds his finger barely to his thumb, then smiling he caresses my face. "I'll wait as long as you need me to as long as you marry me in the end. I love you more than my life." He leans down and kisses me, our desire starting to rise again, and then he rolls to his side of the bed, pulling me with him until I'm snuggled in my favorite position. Sigh. This is my heaven. I start to fall asleep, all warm inside with feelings of being loved and content.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Weeks have gone by, and it's the day of Cassie's doctor's appointment for the DNA test and ultrasound. She's a nervous wreck, and I've been trying to be reassuring and comforting, but to be honest, I'm a little nervous too. God knows I'll love the baby no matter what, but secretly I really hope it's mine but I'll never admit that to her, she's under enough pressure as it is. Once we are in the room, I see that they had everything all set up to draw blood from each of us. As they put blood into a vial from Cassie, she gets a little light headed, informing me that's to be expected with some people. Fuck, whatever! Laying spread eagle on a bed, other people in the room, is not the best way to keep her anxiety down. Now we're just waiting, looking at a small screen trying to get a glimpse of our baby. As Dr. Zellar moves the wand over her gelled belly, he keeps letting out hmmm's and ahhh's. What the hell? All I can make out on the screen is nothing. I can't tell what I am looking at and all I see is a monitor that looks like it has bad reception.

He stops and looks up at us. "I have to ask. Do either of you have a history of twins in your family?" Cassie and I look at each other quickly, shock apparent on her face, her eyes wide. I clear my throat and swallow.

"Um, my mom's side, yes. My grandmother was a twin, why?" Cassie's eyes grow wider, if that's possible, her mouth dropping open.

The doctor grins and laughs. "Well, because there are two babies in there." He points to the screen at what I think look like two little pea's. "If you look very closely here you can make out two sacs, which means they are fraternal twins." He looks at the nurse. "Please turn up the monitor volume." We all become still and listen. "Can you hear them? Two heartbeat's almost beating in unison. You really have to listen but there are two of them," the doctor states matter of fact.

I'm grinning ear to ear when I look over at Cassie, she swallows hard and it seems like all the color has drained from her face. "Baby, are you ok? You look a little pale."

"I.... I...." She looks back at the monitor, then back at the doctor. "Are you.... Are you sure?"

He nods and smiles and I quickly pull my chair up as close as I can to the bed, lean over her, squinting at the screen. "Can you tell the sex of the babies yet?"

He chuckles. "No, sorry. They're too little at this stage of the pregnancy to be able to establish their sex. We should be able to determine that in her second trimester. If we're lucky we'll be able to tell as early as fourteen weeks along but it could be any time after that. It depends also on when or if they cooperate by being in positions where we can tell," he chuckles again.

"That's amazing," I say looking at the screen. The nurse proceeds to print off little snapshots of our babies and hands them to Cassie. I lean over her shoulder staring at them.

"Well," the doctor says while standing. "I'm going to leave you so you can get dressed. Since you're having twins I'll need you to stop by the front desk on your way out and set up two week appointments starting two weeks from today and then down the road we'll switch you to weekly. With more than one baby we need to keep a closer eye on them. Congratulations again." With that I stand, shake the doctors hand as he and the nurse leave the room, the silence almost deafening. Wow! I'm speechless, and I think in shock and I know Cassie is. I think my smile is a permanent fixture on my face now. The doctor had informed us it will be a couple of days before we get the DNA test results but he said he would put a rush on them. I could tell Cassie was nervous as her hands fidgeted in her lap the entire time. On the drive home, we talked about all things twins and decided to keep them as our secret, for now, well at least for a while.

The next day, she went into work while I did some of my own on my computer. By late afternoon, I decided to relax in the family room until Allie comes upstairs, wanting to talk. "You have to call him, Al. Seriously, he's been blowing up my phone. You'll have to talk to him eventually." My arms are crossed over my chest, my exasperation about done for.

"I will. I will. I'm just not ready yet. You know how he is, he'll just yell at me, try to guilt me into going home and it won't accomplish anything," Allie answers, her foot stomping on the floor like a little kid not getting their way. Our heads turn sharply when we hear Cassie enter the room.

She walks in to find us standing there face to face, both of us showing our aggravation. "Sorry to interrupt. Is.... Is everything ok?" She gives us a cautious look as we both face her, Allie looking close to tears.

I walk to her, take her hands in mine, but turn my head towards Allie. "Dad just keeps calling MY phone because Allie won't turn hers on."

Allie sighs. "Ok. OK! I'll turn it on. I'll call him so he'll leave you alone. I'm sorry he keeps bothering you. Guess I'll go downstairs and call him now." She sadly walks out of the room with her head down.

My head turns back to Cassie, looking into her sad eyes. "Damn, now I feel like a bad brother." She cups my face with her small hands and smiles.

"No, babe. You are a great brother, you've just been dealing with your dad to protect her. It's just time she steps up and deals with him herself." My heart is filled with love for my girl, bending down I kiss her lips softly.

"I love you, baby," I whispers against her pouty lips.

Her eyes gleaming, staring into mine. "I love you too."

Allie informs us that evening that she called their dad. "Oh, my God! He wouldn't even let me talk! I am so pissed right now! Then, he hung up on me. Seriously! He hung up on ME!" Sitting on the couch, we're watching her pace back and forth in front of us, waving her arms as she speaks.

"Allie. Allie!" Cassie screams, stopping Allie's rant, her body turning and looking at her. "Honey, calm down. He'll settle down now that he's gotten that off his chest. Give him some time." Cassie's voice is calmer, soothing, almost so Allie relaxes. My girl is the best.

She looks at me then back at Cassie. "Sorry, but you don't know Dad. He's.... He's.... He's impossible. Calming down will not help him."

I clear my throat, looking at Cassie. "Well, yeah, she's right, baby. Dad is, well, hard to explain. When he doesn't get what he wants, well, there's no telling what he'll do." Shrugging my shoulders, I give her a small smile.

"Well, then let's just take one day at a time, shall we?" Cassie smiles at us both in turn, and I couldn't love her any more.

Pushing up from the couch, I stand and stretch my stiff muscles. "Perfect idea! We have a baby room to plan and a wedding. So we'd...."

"WHAT? You all are getting married and no one told me?" Allie huffs, Cassie rolls her eyes at me, and I laugh.

"Well, I've asked but she hasn't exactly accepted yet," I smirk.

Allie walks over, scooching in between us as close as she can get to Cassie. "Cassie, what's wrong? Don't you want to marry my brother? You love him, right?"

Cassie's face lights up with her smile. "Of course I love him! I just need a little time, that's all."

Allie puts her arm around her. "And you'll get the most wonderful, awesome, tremendous sister-in-law, ever!" She gloats.

"Ok! Ok! That's enough! Don't pressure my soon to be wife." I laugh, placing my hands on her arms, lifting her up off the couch and quickly moving next to my girl wrapping her in my arms. "That's MY job."
Nineteen

A few days later the doctor's office calls saying the DNA test results are in. They got us in today at one o'clock, and I'm so nervous I feel like I am going to be sick. My stomach is in knots by the time Jesse gets home from running errands. After telling him about the appointment, he immediately comes to me, holding me tight. "It's all going to be fine. I love both of my boys because they are a part of you," he's whispering in my ear as he rubs my back.

My eyes snap up to his as I sniff. "Boys?" I smile slightly. "You think they're both boys?"

He pulls me closer. "Well, I would like at least one of them to be a boy, but even if they're both girls, I'll still love them just as much." Sigh. "What do you want, my love?"

I snuggle my face into his chest, hearing his strong heart beating. "I don't really care as long as they are healthy. But either way I hope they have your blue eyes." I smile looking up into his gleaming eyes.

Being sick to my stomach all day has not helped my mood when we get to the doctor's and have to sit in the waiting room for twenty minutes. By the time we get into the doctor's office I have to rush out, run down the hall and barely make into the bathroom to get sick. When I get back to the room Jesse's pacing the floor, then rushes over to me and grabs me by the shoulders. "Baby, are you ok?" Bending down, he looks into my eyes, then they roam up and down my body checking to make sure I'm all intact.

"I'm fine now." I smile, take his hand and lead him to the chairs in front of the doctor's desk. More time to wait as we sit there, still holding hands, both growing impatient for the news. My nerves are shot by the time Dr. Zellar walks into the room, giving us both a smile as he walks around his desk and sits.

"Good afternoon, Cassie.... Jesse. And how is the stomach, Cassie?" He looks at me over his glasses.

"Ahem, well I just got sick in the bathroom, but I think it's more from nerves than anything." Jesse shifts in his chair, pulling my hand into his lap, nervously rubbing the top with his thumb.

The doctor smiles at me and then at Jesse. "Well, unfortunately, some women have morning sickness well into their second trimester as well. If you need more nausea pills please let the front desk know before you leave. Also make sure you're eating healthy, non-greasy foods. Saltine crackers and 7-Up seem to help some women." I nod and give him a small smile. He lowers his glasses on his nose and looks at us. "Now, let's talk about the DNA test, ok? I'm sure you're both anxious to find out the results." We both nod, and Jesse squeezes my hand. "The tests are 99% positive that this young man right here," he points at Jesse, "is your babies' father." My heart is pounding, my body sweating and I jump when Jesse hops out of his chair before I could even blink. He lifts me, holding me as tight as he can, and I begin to cry. Blubbering would be a better word for what I'm doing. When I've gotten my crying down to sniffles, Jesse sets me down on my chair, pulls his chair as close as he can to mine and hands me a Kleenex. The smile on his face cannot deny how relieved and happy he is.

"I'm sorry. I'm just so relieved," I say, wiping away my tears. I look over at Jesse and smile. He is wiping tears away too.

As we head down the hall to the elevators, I stop to grab Jesse, hugging him and kissing him all over his face. He steps back, still holding me, his face is full of wonder. "I'm going to be a dad. I can't believe it! When do we find out their sex again?" We both start laughing.

Once we get home, I call Stella and tell her the good news. "See, I told you, pumpkin. You and Jesse are going to make great parents." We talk for a long time, her reminding me about the birthday celebration I inadvertently let her talk me into at work the other day. She knows I hate people making a fuss over me, giving me presents just embarrasses me, but I told her I would let her give me a party and people could bring presents, as long as they are small and inexpensive.

I am exhausted by the time I get off the phone, so I give Jesse a kiss and head upstairs to lay down. When I wake up later the most amazing aroma fills my nose, so I quickly freshen up in our bathroom, then almost run downstairs to see what is making that wonderful smell. As I'm heading to the kitchen, something catches my eye from the dining room and when my eyes shift to see I stop in my tracks and stare. Oh, my! Cue tears. The dining table is covered with a white table cloth, place settings in front of the chairs that are side by side, and a vase with fresh flowers in the middle with lit candles surrounding it. Jesse's body presses against my back, his arms wrapping around me. He begins kissing me softly on my neck, then nibbles on my ear and whispers, "Surprise, baby." Kiss. "I thought we needed a celebration." I turn in his arms, looking into his eyes as he reaches for my tears to wipe them away. "I love you, Jesse. So much." My mouth finds his as my arms move up and around his neck, my fingers tangling in his hair.

Before our kissing became too heated he turns me around and guides me into the dining room, pulling out my chair for me and pushing me up to the table. I look up at him and smile. "Jesse, you're so sweet to do this. Thank you."

He leans down, kisses my forehead and give me his gorgeous sexy smile. "The best is yet to come, baby."

Like we're at a fine restaurant, he brings in salads, placing them on our plates, heads back into the kitchen and then proceeds to bring in wine to pour into our glasses. "I asked Dr. Zellar if you could have some wine and he said one glass as long as your stomach was feeling ok." He grins proudly. "So.... Is your stomach up for a glass?" My head nods quickly, and he wastes no time pouring the wine. Once he sits down, he slides an envelope across the table to me. I look up with a questioning look. He nods and winks. "Go ahead. Open it." I look down and place my hand on it and finally picking it up, I open it. Sliding out a folded piece of paper, I unfold it to find Jesse's elegant handwriting.

This entitles you, Cassie Morelli, soon to be mother extraordinaire, a nursery designed by McAllister Designs, Inc. Spare no expense.

From your soon to be husband (hint, hint).

All my love forever,

Jesse

Wow! I'm crying again, damn hormones. I get up and hug him. He starts kissing my face and rubbing my back. "Geez, I didn't mean to make you cry, baby," he says into my ear. I move back to my chair, grabbing my napkin to wipe my eyes, then looking at the love of my life.

"Jesse that is the sweetest thing and this dinner? Oh, my God! I'm going to start crying again."

He's laughing as he takes my hand. "I wanted to do this for you, for us, for our babies. Our babies. Isn't that the most wonderful sound in the world?" I sigh, nodding only because I'm crying again and can't speak.

It was a wonderful dinner. Salad, soup, a light pasta dish, rolls and wine. I'm stuffed. After dinner, he demands me to go get comfortable on the couch while he cleans up. I can't argue as I'm too full to move. I feel so loved, so pampered and all because of him. God, I hope this feeling never ends.

I'm curled up on the couch watching Jesse as he saunters into the room. He squats down in front of the fireplace and lights a fire, his lean and strong body fascinating me. His toned muscles flex as he stands and walks over to the couch. He sits beside me and moves me over until I'm snuggled under his arm, my hand resting on his broad chest. "Best night of my life," I sigh, tracing a pattern over his heart on his shirt. His arm tightens around me as he kisses the side of my head. "So, I guess we need to think about names at some point, huh? Any ideas?" My head tilts as my eyes look up at him.

His body shifts a little. "Not really, it's still so surreal that I haven't really thought about it. I guess we have some time, right?" He smirks. I look down watching my fingers move around on his chest.

"About seven months or so." Turning my head back up, I look at him staring at me, his smile wide. "Will you still love me when I am fat and majorly cranky?" I smile, my cheeks hurting with how much I'm smiling.

"Baby, I'll love you forever and will be there for you to help with your crankiness," he laughs. "But I am going to pamper you so much your moods will be held at bay."

I sigh. "I love you."

He kisses my head again. "I can't even begin to tell you or show you how much I love you, baby." As I continue looking into his eyes, he leans down and kisses me. Our kiss is sweet and slow, breaking finally I lean back into him and watch the fire. We talk away the next few hours until my eyes get heavy and close.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

"Mmmm." A moan escapes me when the dream I'm having feels so real, like it's really happening. The sensations in my cock pulsing, the fast heartbeat, even when my body is moved over, and I was on my back. The tip of my cock being sucked, a hand caressing and fondling my balls, squeezing. My moan is loud, my head turning into the pillow to muffle the sound. One eye opens to find Cassie on her knees in between my legs, her head down and her luscious mouth encasing my cock. My hand moves to the back of her head, pressing down slightly and rubbing her hair. I need to make her stop. I should make her stop, but damn it feels so fucking good. I start panting as the feeling grows within me, another moan louder than the rest leaves me as she sucks me harder, faster until I begin squirting into her beautiful mouth. My body stills as she cleans the head, lapping all over until it's moist from her tongue but clean from my mess. Quickly, I reach down, grab her upper arms and pull her up my body until her head is against my chest.

I chuckle moving her head up and down on my chest. Her smile is contagious when she looks up at me. "Morning, baby. Thank you for my wake up." I kiss her head, my arm rubbing up and down her arm and pulling her even closer.

Her hand lifts and waves me off. "Well, you know. It was there pressed against me, all lonely and needy, and well, I just couldn't help myself." My laughter shakes her body, my hand finding her rib cage and tickling her.

"Well, I'll just have to make sure we're in that very position every morning." Her hand lightly smacks at my hand, her body squirming as we both laugh and my mouth then finds hers.

After breakfast, I have her call the design company to set up an appointment. I was glad Allie said she wants to go with her. It's a big relief because it is located an hour away and in a much bigger city. Her appointment's set up to go in a few days, guess I'll be working a lot that day while she's gone. I miss her already.
Twenty

The days move by fast as Allie and I are now sitting in the waiting room at McAllister Design, Inc. Everything is so posh here and, of course, decorated beautifully. "Miss Aubrey will see you now. Please follow me," the receptionist says as she stands from her desk. We follow her down a hall into a large conference room. "Please, have a seat. Miss Aubrey will be here in one moment. May I offer something to drink? Wine, coffee, tea?"

I shift in my seat while looking at Allie and mouth, "Wow!"

Allie smiles. "I would love a glass of wine, please."

The receptionist turns her head to look at me. "May I just have some water?" I smile.

"Very good." She smiles and leaves the room.

"Holy shit! This is just way too ritzy for me," I smirk at her as she turns to face me.

Her face lights up, her excitement apparent. "But isn't it awesome being catered to? Enjoy it, Cassie. You deserve it," she says as she lays her hand on my shoulder.

We both turn quickly as the door opens and the receptionist brings our drinks. "Miss Aubrey shouldn't be much longer," she says as she places our drinks in front of us, and then she leaves once more. It feels like we wait forever, but it was only a few minutes more when the door opens, and the most beautiful woman enters. Her hair is so light blonde it's almost white. Her face small making her golden eyes appear huge. She's around 5' 9" and has a very slender body with her breasts spilling out of a halter dress. Her dress? Gorgeous! Sweetheart neckline, trim at the waist and hits right above her knees in a beautiful soft beige.

"Hi, I am Sabrina Aubrey. So nice to meet you," she says, smiling as she walks over to me with her hand out. She doesn't wait for any acknowledgement, heads to the table, sits down, and pours herself a glass of wine and takes a sip.

"Nice to meet you too. I'm Cassie and this is my friend Allie." I turn my head and smile at Allie, who is beaming at me. Sabrina shakes my hand, lightly and then Allie's and then clasping her hands in front of her on the table, she leans forward.

"So.... First of all, congratulations on your new arrival. I have to say that Jesse was so excited telling me about the news and employing our services. You have a wonderful man there," she says smiling. I'm not quite sure I like her tone as she said that. She's looking a little too dreamy as she talks about Jesse.

"Oh, so I assume you've met Jesse personally when he purchased your decorating services?" I ask her, coyly. I swear her eyes went up into her head like she is envisioning him.

"Oh, Jesse and I have actually known each other for quite some time. We have done a lot of work together the last couple of years for the charities he runs. I used to work out of L.A., then when we expanded our company, I found this was a great place for our new location." She looks at me again and smiles. "Really, how very lucky you are."

Allie hits my leg under the table. "Ooof," I cough looking over at her and frowning. Damn that hurt.

"Oh, my! Are you ok, my dear?" Sabrina asks concerned, but yet not a hint of worry on her lovely features. Turning my head back towards Sabrina, I smile slightly, rubbing my leg underneath the table.

"Oh, yes. Sorry. I just hit my leg against the table, no worries." My leg moves of its own accord smacking against Allie's leg in rebuttal.

"Well, ok then let's get down to business, shall we? Do you have anything in mind already or would you like to look through our catalogs? You don't have to pick anything from them, if you aren't fond of any but it may give you some ideas of what you would like." She smiles politely.

I look at Allie and back at Sabrina. "I would love to look at your catalogs, please. I really haven't had much time to think about what I would like yet."

Sabrina nods and reaches for a speaker phone on the table and hits a button. "Yes, Miss Aubrey. How may I be of service?" We hear the receptionist.

"Mrs. Roanoke. Please bring in the nursery catalogs for our guests." She turns and plasters a fake smile at us. What the hell?

"Right away, Miss Aubrey," the receptionist says as Sabrina hits the button again.

She smiles at us again. "Very well, I'll leave you two alone for a while to look through the catalogs. Please take all the time you need. I will have Mrs. Roanoke check on you from time to time to see if you have made any decisions and once you have she will let me know. Please let her know any time you would like a refill on your drinks or if you have any questions." We both nod and with that she leaves.

Once she's gone Allie and I look at each other. "Does she, um, seem kind of fakey to you," Allie asks as I nod slowly, both of us are thinking exactly the same thing.

"She really seemed to enjoy Jesse coming into the office, huh?" My eyes sad as I look at her, and we just sit there staring into space for another few minutes until Allie smacks the table making me jump.

"Oh, my God! Listen to us," she laughs. "Seriously, what are we thinking?" I roll my eyes. Yeah, what are we thinking? I know what I'm thinking.

We end up spending hours there looking through books of different nursery decors. With only a couple of books left I stop on a page and lightly hit Allie on her arm. Since we don't know and won't know for a while the sex of the twins, I like this décor because it's an antique white crib and matching furniture. The room is painted in a light beige with pictures of the babies newborn pictures in antique frames on the wall over the crib. And since no one but Jesse and I know we are having twins, I notice they had the crib in stock to order separately. Once we find out the sex of the twins, I can get blankets and accessories for the colors or color I need.

"Allie! This is perfect! I love it!" I exclaimed. Allie looks at the picture, then up at me with a big smile on her face. Once Sabrina comes back, and I show her what I've chosen and we make the arrangements to begin with the babies' room in a couple of weeks. No sense in hurrying at this point.

A few weeks later I awaken to see Jesse setting down a tray on the nightstand by me full of breakfast foods, orange juice and a single handmade rose in a vase. Leaning over me, he kisses me softly. "Happy birthday, baby," he says against my lips. He helps me sit up, putting the tray across my lap and then sits down by my legs.

"Thank you, babe. You went to so much trouble," I say sniffling.

He reaches across the tray and rubs some tears that are already making their way down my face. "Aw, no tears, baby. Unless they're happy tears."

I sniff and nod. "They are. Immensely happy tears. I.... I've never had any, anyone do something like, like this for me." I cry.

He gets up taking the tray with him, setting it back down on the table, then sits back down beside me, pulling me into a hug while rubbing my back. "Shhhh. It's ok, baby. You deserve this and more," he says lovingly. Once I've calmed down, hiccuping a bit, I share my lovely breakfast with him as we talk about that evening's festivities at the Café.

Later, walking into the Café holding hands with my love, I stop right inside the door and gasp, pull my hand from Jesse's and cover my mouth. "Oh, my God!" My yell is muffled by my hand. My eyes look around the Café, seeing decorations of balloons and streamers. They had pushed a couple of the tables together and on them is a ton of food, drinks and a huge birthday cake.

Stella walks over and grabs both of my hands and holds them. "Pumpkin! Happy birthday!" She leans over and kisses me on my cheek, my eyes full of tears blurring my view of her.

"Oh, Stella! This is amazing. I don't know what to say. I just...." I'm speechless. Totally speechless. I've never in my life had such great and caring friends to go to all this trouble for me.

Jesse puts an arm around my shoulders, bringing me against his side, my arm moving around his lean waist and my hand lying on his broad chest. "Baby, this is all for you. You are so special to everyone here, don't you know that?" He kisses me on the side on my head as the tears continue to flow.

"Go on, you two. Go join the fun," Stella says, shoving us into the room.

I received so many great presents and the food was out of this world. They even provided sparkling cider, since I can't drink alcohol and turned on the jukebox, some even danced in the middle of the Café. I had the best birthday, ever.

By ten o'clock that night, I was sitting in a booth watching everyone have a great time and started yawning. Jesse walks over and sits beside me. "Come on. Let's get you home."

He puts his arm around me and I lean my head on his shoulder. "Ok," I yawn, waving my goodbyes to everyone. He takes me home, gets me undressed and tucks me into bed, quickly following me. After snuggling into his warm body, my head on his chest, his arm around me, my eyes close, and I have the best dreams.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

The months have passed by quickly. It's unseasonably hot for June but that's Kansas for you, the weather can change rapidly in a day. We've been going to Cassie's doctor appointments every two weeks and today we'll see if our babies cooperate and show us what sex they are. I'm not sure who is more excited, Cassie or me.

She's now in her normal position on the table not embarrassed in the slightest anymore. Dr. Zellar is moving the wand over her lubricated belly and suddenly stops. "Both babies are in really good positions, right now. See there," he says as he points to the screen. "It's pretty obvious that is a penis." I swallow almost choking on my spit. "And over here," he adds as he moves his finger to the next sac. "Here you can see there isn't one. It's pretty safe to say you're having a boy and a girl. Congratulations."

I don't think I could contain my exuberance if I tried, jumping up, I hug the doctor and the nurse as Cassie lies there all exposed for all the world see. I know she probably thought I might leave her there and run outside to pace the street stopping everyone to tell them and hand out cigars when I finally realize I hadn't hugged the most important person in the room. Cassie. My head turns so quick I'm surprised I didn't get whiplash. I run over to her, hopping up on the bed and start covering her with kisses. I think she forgave me after that.

Sabrina's coming over with a crew today to start on the nursery. Cassie's been talking to her a few times, over the phone, about a few things she needed before they started.

Cassie and I are having breakfast in the kitchen when she suddenly asks, "So, Sabrina says you all have worked together a lot." I look up at her, from my paper, and she smiles sweetly.

"Ah, well, yes, we have." I smile back, noticing she's picking at her food on her plate with her fork.

"That's nice. She talked like she was rather fond of you," she states not looking up from her plate. What's this all about?

Laying the paper down on the table, I turn to her. "Baby, we just worked together," I chuckle, then my face turns serious, and my brows creasing. "Well, I guess we've gone out for drinks a couple of times after work but not a big deal really." Memories start filling my head. Shit. "Ok, we dated some. But it was nothing, baby. Really!" Damn, I hadn't thought about her or anything about her for so long.

She takes my hand in hers. "Oh, I know. She just seemed like, I don't know, like maybe she was a little too fond of you." Hmmmm, really?

Grabbing her other hand, I lean forward on the table. "Baby, now what's all this about? You're the only one I love." My head leans down, and I kiss both of her hands.

"I know. I'm being silly and probably hormonal. I trust you." She leans forward, giving me a quick kiss, then sits back and begins eating.

Leaving Cassie at home with the crew showing up I run some errands in town, stopping by the tattoo shop to pay a visit to Shane and Tucker and then head to the computer store to get some supplies. When I arrive back home, I find Cassie asleep on the couch, so I run upstairs to check on the progress of the nursery only to be cornered by Sabrina herself in the hallway. As she approaches me, I back myself up against the wall, her fingernail running down my cheek, her mouth way too close for comfort for me.

"Jesse, you really should tell her about us. Really, what are you thinking? That she won't find out? Seriously, I don't understand what you see in her anyway. What we had was the best. Why would you want someone like her, when you can have me? Hmmm?" Sabrina whispers loudly.

Grabbing her hand, I push her away, her face full of shock. "Don't kid yourself, Sabrina, you and I were a few dates and meant nothing to me." I point to the stairs, my temper brewing. "That girl.... That girl is the best thing that's ever happened to me and not you or anyone else can ever give me what that girl does. She's everything to me. Everything and more. She's my life." She lets out a huff, turns sharply heading downstairs leaving me in confusion. What in the hell was that all about and why now, after all this time? I head into my office and start making some calls about a charity coming up.
Twenty-One

I'm shocked and frozen on the bottom stair, not believing what I just heard. I knew something wasn't right by the way she was talking when we met. When I awoke from my nap and heard hushed voices coming from upstairs, I knew she was up to no good. I turned around and quietly went down the basement stairs, finding Allie in her office typing away on her laptop. She turns around in her chair when I clear my throat. "Cassie? What's wrong," she says coming towards me.

I take a step back. "I.... I overheard...." I can't seem to form the words.

She puts her hands on my shoulders. "Cassie, tell me. What happened?"

With tears forming in my eyes, I shake my head slowly and swallow hard. "I heard Sabrina tell Jesse that they should get back together. That what they had was the best and why would he want to be with someone like me." I am shaking now, my nerves shot, but I don't know why I'm so upset. I know Jesse loves me, that I'm everything to him as he is me. Stupid hormones.

Allie pulls me to her. "Oh, Cassie. Jesse loves you. You're being a hormonal pregnant mommy and are feeling insecure. Don't let what she says bother you."

I stay downstairs with Allie for a while and feel better by the time I return upstairs. Not hearing any noises from the nursery I walk upstairs to find Jesse, but he's nowhere to be found. As I go back downstairs I hear the clanking of dishes coming from the kitchen, the thought of him starting dinner entering my mind, and I smile. I'm stopped abruptly in the doorway watching Sabrina putting a glass in the dishwasher, then turning around and leaning back against the counter. "If you're looking for Jesse he isn't here," she smirks. "He said he needed to go to the Café to pick up something."

I nod my head slowly. "Ok. So is your crew done for today?" I ask slowly.

"Oh, yes. They'll be back tomorrow. I'm leaving now. The crew will be on their own from now on so if you need me for anything you can just call me." She starts to walk past me, but stops and turns to me. "You know you're not good enough for him, don't you? He needs a confident real woman. A real woman. Not some...." Her eyes move down my body and then back up, then glaring into my eyes. "Mousy scared little girl."

And with that, she leaves, and I don't get a chance to say anything, standing there in shock, my mouth wide open. When Jesse returns, he finds me sitting on the couch staring at the TV which is turned off. He sits on the coffee table in front of me and puts his hands on my knees. "Cassie? Baby? Are you ok? What's wrong? Is it the babies?"

My vision comes into focus, and I blink. "What? Oh, I'm sorry. I must have zoned out." I smile sadly.

He laughs. "It's ok. Hey, I went and picked up an apple pie from the Café for dessert tonight."

I lean in and kiss him. "That sounds wonderful." He stands and walks into the kitchen. Shaking my head, I rise to follow. I'm not letting her get to me and definitely not to Jesse. No way in hell.

A week goes by and the nursery is finished. It looks just like the picture in the catalog. I love it! I've already called in for the second crib, which will be delivered in about a month.

"Hey, the nursery turned out perfect! Are you happy, baby?" Jesse asks, standing behind me with his arms around my waist.

I lay my head back against his shoulder and smile up at him. "Happy doesn't begin to describe it."

He turns me around and kisses me. When he moves back he gives me his famous grin. "I want to take you out to celebrate. But also I wanted to ask you if you would accompany me to a charity we are running this Friday night. It's a pretty big deal, so I really need to be there and would love for you to go with me. It's kind of dressy, so we could use that night to celebrate too. Will you go?" Then he gives me his pouty expression.

I laugh, swatting his arm playfully. "Oh, ok. I would love to go with you and celebrate."

Come to find out that this charity event is near the design company. It's being held in a ballroom at a ritzy hotel. Allie and I went shopping and found me the most beautiful cocktail dress. It is a navy blue V-neck dress that comes to just above my knees with a sequined design right below the breasts in the middle of an open waistline. Since I am getting so huge so quickly now I needed something to help conceal my belly for an event like this. We find matching shoes and a small clutch to end our perfect day.

Friday night is here before I know it, and I am really nervous. I've never been to anything like this. Jesse's so comforting because he knows I am apprehensive.

The ballroom is beautifully decorated. Food covered tables in a buffet style against the farthest wall from us, to the left is a fully stocked bar with two bartenders and another bar at the opposite end of the room. The center of the room is full of people talking and laughing. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves when we walk in. I take Jesse's arm as we walk around the room, he introduces me to the people he knows and nods at those he doesn't. We end up at the food tables, taking our full plates and sitting down at an empty table close by. While we eat, I look around the room watching others, mingling, my eyes stopping when I see Sabrina walk in the door. I watch as she looks around the room, and her eyes stop abruptly on Jesse. He's oblivious to her stare as he eats, but a few minutes later I feel the hair stand up on the back of my neck, and a cold chill sweeps down my spine.

"Hello, Jesse," Sabrina says with a sexy smile. She turns to me with an obvious fake smile. "Hello, Cassie." She immediately turns back to Jesse. "I am so glad you made it tonight. Didn't everything turn out great?" She says putting her hand on his shoulder.

"Yes, everything turned out very nice. Good job, Sabrina," Jesse says with a small smile, jerking his shoulder making her hand drop off. He seems so uncomfortable.

"Thank you. Well, I must go mingle before the auction begins. Have a nice evening. I will talk with you later," Sabrina says, walking off completing ignoring me which is just fine with me. Bitch!

I'm feeling a little green and am not sure if it's jealousy or an upset stomach, or both. "Um, I think I am going to go use the ladies room," I tell Jesse as I stand, placing my napkin on the table and giving him a quick kiss.

He looks at me and nods, concern on his face. "Do you want me to walk you there?"

Bending down I kiss his cheek, rubbing my lipstick off that I left. "Oh, no! Really, I can manage. But thank you." Giving him a smile, I grab my purse and leave for the restroom hoping I don't expel the wonderful dinner I just ate.

Once in the restroom, after finishing with all my necessities, I'm standing at the mirror applying a little lip gloss. I hear the door open behind me and my focus in the mirror switches from my lips to Sabrina standing with her back against the door, glaring at me.

"Well, well. If it isn't the little girl who is trying to keep my Jesse from me," she sneers.

I turn around and lean against the counter. "Sabrina, what do you want? Jesse's happy now. With me. He doesn't want you anymore, why can't you just leave him alone and move on? Is your life so bad that you can't find someone of your own? I heard you all talking at the house," I smirk, crossing my arms over my chest.

She raises her hand, looking down at her fingernails. "Ah, little girl. Jesse doesn't know what he wants. He thinks he's happy now, but he'll find out what he's missing and come back to me. He needs a real woman."

Now I'm shaking. I'm so mad. "You're mistaken, Sabrina. He wants me, not you. Now, get out of my way." I start walking towards her. She hesitates and then slowly moves out of my way.

As I pass her, she leans over and whispers in my ear. "No, little girl. You're the one who's mistaken. You'll see."

By the time I get back to the table I find Jesse's gone. Looking around I spot him talking with some people close to where the auction will take place. I'm so hot with rage that I decide to go out to the small garden area there and get some fresh air. Outside there's a nice cool breeze helping calm me down. Standing close to the cement stairs, I view the different gardens that are around the lawn with all the blooming flowers, the scent wafting in the breeze with a perfumed aroma. It's beautiful and calming. The sound of a man inside on the microphone announcing the auction is about ready to begin catches my attention, so I start to turn around to go in when I see Sabrina from the corner of my eye and feel her hands on my shoulder pushing me towards the steps.

"I WON'T LET YOU TAKE HIM, YOU BITCH!" She shouts as I fall, bouncing hard down the stairs until I land with a thud on the landing at the bottom. My head smacks the cement, and my vision fades to black.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

"UGH." Cassie moans. Thank God she's waking up. I've been beside myself. I was a raging lunatic last night. They wouldn't let me see her once we got here, and they wouldn't tell me anything. I was about ready to go postal on their asses. She reaches her arm out towards the bed table, her hand smacking around like she thinks her alarm is going off. She must be thinking she's at home in our bed.

"Baby, you're ok. You fell down some stairs, but you're ok," I whisper next to her head, my voice shaking. God, I hope she hears me.

Her head turns, her eyes opening looking into mine, but then she winces in pain and groans. "Jesse? Why are you crying? Is it the babies? Oh, my God! Are they ok?" Tears start to make their way down her cheeks, my fingers quickly brushing them away. "I lost the babies, didn't I?" She begins crying, closing her eyes and reaching up, placing her hand on her head.

I gently place my hand on her face and try to be as quiet as I can. "Shhhh, baby. No, honey, the babies are just fine. Shhhh. Everything's fine." I kiss her forehead, her eyes open again, the confusion on her face expected.

"Then why are you crying?" She asks as I brush some hair from her face and kiss the frowned crease on her forehead.

"You were out cold and so still for so long, so long. You wouldn't wake up when I shook you. I was so afraid of losing you. I was afraid I had lost you," I answer, tears sliding down my face.

She reaches her hand, laying it softly on my face, caressing my tears away, my eyes closing with her touch. I didn't think I'd ever feel her warm touch ever again. "Oh, Jesse. You'll never lose me," she whispers. Removing her hand, she lays it on her stomach and yawns loudly, her eyes closing as she drifts back into slumber.

"She's fortunate and so are the babies. Had she landed in a different position it could have been detrimental to them and her." The doctor and I have been talking about Cassie since she awoke earlier, whispering so not to wake her yet. He came in to check on her, but I stopped him as soon as he walked in the door.

"May I have some water, please?" My ears are alerted to a small voice from the bed, and we both turn around quickly. My girl's awake. Practically running over to her side, I brush back her hair and turn my head to the doctor asking with my eyes if it's ok to give her some water, and he nods.

"Sure, baby." Quickly, I pour some water in the hospital mug, reach over and push the button on the guardrail to raise her bed so she's in a sitting position, being careful to not cause her any unnecessary pain. "Is that ok? Too much?"

"No, that's good. Thank you." After handing her the water, I sit in the chair beside the bed moving it up as close as I can possibly get it. Meanwhile, the doctor has moved to the foot of her bed, her chart in his hand.

He smiles. "Hello, Cassie. I'm Dr. Phillips. How are you feeling?" She looks up from the water mug and smiles.

"My head hurts and my right leg and arm are sore." He continues to read her chart, then his eyes look up at her.

"Well, it's no wonder with falling down cement steps." He half smiles. "Fortunately, your injuries are minor and the position you landed helped to protect your babies who, by the way, have very healthy heartbeats. We did do an ultrasound to check on them and they are doing just fine. I do recommend you see your OB as soon as you can so he can confirm. Congratulations by the way."

Her eyes move to me quickly, relief apparent on her sweet face. "Oh, thank God!" She lets out a huge sigh. That's exactly how I felt when they told me they were ok, but more so that she was going to be ok. I still remember the feeling, almost collapsing on the floor, Shane and Tucker pulling me by my arms to the waiting room, so I could cry in private.

The doctor hangs her chart back on the footboard of her bed and smiles. "You should be able to leave if you're feeling up to it. But you must rest for a few days. In bed and no exertion. I'd prefer to keep you another night to keep an eye on you but I'm sure you're anxious to be in the comfort of your own bed. However...." He looks at me with a serious look. "If she seems disoriented in any way or her pain level increases or she has any other symptoms bring her back here immediately if you can't get her into her doctor, ok?" My head nods a little too quickly, but I'm just as anxious to get her home where I can take care of her, but God knows I won't take any chances with her or our babies.

Her head nods just as fast as mine did. "That sounds great. Thank you, Dr. Phillips. I promise I'll be careful." She looks down at her stomach as her hands rub lovingly over it. "I'll be careful for our babies and me. You don't have to worry about that."

He smiles, nods and turns to leave. "Ok then. I'll go get the paperwork ready and someone will be in to take you out."

Once the doctor leaves the room, her body moves slightly towards me. "What happened to Sabrina, Jesse? Do you know she pushed me down the stairs?"

He takes my hand and rubs his thumb across it. "Yes, baby. Someone saw her and the police came and took her to the station. They said that once you felt up to it they would need a statement from you." She nods slowly, another lone tear brimming the bottom of her eyelid waiting to fall. "Sweetie, I'm so sorry. This is all my fault. I didn't tell you we had dated for a while. Actually." I look down unable to look her in the eyes anymore. "We were engaged." She gasps, covering her mouth with her other hand. "But it's been over for a couple of years now, before my mother was killed. She didn't understand why I needed to find the men who killed her. It ended badly. She yelled, threw things, she was verbally abusive. I should have told you, but I had no idea she was still thinking she would ever come back into my life. I had no idea. I should have known. I'm so sorry."

"But. How? How can you work with her after how she treated you, Jesse?" I shift in my seat, looking up and into her sad eyes.

"In her business she's the best, top of her field. She apologized to me and said she could be professional. I was stupid to think she could change. I'm so sorry, baby. Please forgive me." Tears are back again and forming in my eyes. How could I have been so stupid? I can't believe I thought I could work with her, and that she was passed us. I'll never forgive myself.

"Jesse, no. It's not your fault. Please don't think it is. I don't blame you for what happened." She moves our entwined hands to her mouth, kissing mine, her lips lingering there for a couple of minutes. "Don't you dare blame yourself. I know it'll be hard for you but I don't want you to carry that with you. I want our life back, our happiness and I don't want anything to be a barrier. Please say you'll forgive yourself and let it go. Please." My tears are free falling now, and I let them. Closing my eyes, making them splatter onto my jeans, I thank God for keeping my love and our babies safe.

Silence ensues only the sounds of us crying softly in the room. Finally, I wipe away the rest of my unfallen tears and try to lighten our conversation by chuckling a little. "Well, aren't we just the pair." I look up when I hear her small laugh, lean to her and kiss her shoulder.

"Yes, we are and we're going to have a happily ever after. Together. All of us." Her beautiful smile lights her face. My mouth finds hers swiftly pouring all the love we feel for each other in that one kiss.

About three hours later I get my baby home, dress her in some comfortable pajamas and tuck her into our bed. I sat there and watched her sleep, thankful to have her home.

The police came over to our house the next day and took Cassie's statement. Later we were to find out that wasn't her first offense. Apparently, she's abused previous boyfriends as well as the girls they were with after they had dumped Sabrina. It's a wonder to me how in the hell she had kept her job, had made it in the business world at all and out of prison for so long.

It's been three days and Cassie's going crazy because I won't let her get out of bed. "Ugh! I need to move around. I can't stand sitting in this bed anymore. Dr. Phillips said I only had to stay in bed a few days. Few means three!" She whines, looking over at Allie frowning.

"Geez, grumpy. I'll go talk to Jesse. He's getting you some lunch." She pats her shoulder and starts to leave the room as I'm walking in, patting me on my arm. "She's all yours."

Cassie's sitting in the bed, beating her hand down on the mattress beside her when I carry the tray of food, setting it down over her lap and then sit down on the bed next to her legs. "Morning, beautiful! If you don't quit hitting the bed you're going to spill your food," I smirk.

Looking up to the ceiling, she huffs, "UGH! Jesse! The doctor said only a few days of bed rest. Can't I at least move down to the couch for a change of scenery? I'm about to climb the walls in here." I can't help but laugh. I can see the wheels turning in her pretty little head and soon she tries another tactic.

"This can't be good for our babies, honey. No exercise at all, staying in one place and not being able to move around except to go to the bathroom." She's holding her breath as she looks down, rubbing her stomach lovingly. She's good, but she's right. The doctor did say a few days, and it would probably help her heal better to feel more normal again.

Shaking my head, my cocky grin makes an appearance. She's so busted. Laughing I pat her leg gently. "You should be a salesperson. Ok, after lunch. I'll carry you downstairs so you can camp out on the couch for a while."

She looks at me incredulously. "I can walk you know." Crossing her arms under her ample breasts, that seem to be growing daily, she huffs again. She'd better be careful or I won't ever let her leave our bed.

Now I'm laughing harder. "I know, baby. But let me take care of you, please?" Her eyes roll, but then she stops, looking at the sincerity in my eyes and gives me her sweet smile then reaches over and clasps my arm. "Jesse, my love. I would love it if you'd carry me downstairs after lunch."

Camped downstairs on the couch for the rest of the week was better than being in that bed. By the end of the week I actually even let her walk by herself. Baby steps. But I hope she can feel how loved and cherished she is.
Epilogue

It's been three months since the Sabrina incident. Since then Allie has moved out to a condo across town saying we need our privacy and so did she. Ha, I bet she did. Shane and she have become a little chummy, well more than chummy.

One day, I came home from work to find our living room mostly dark, except for the soft glow of lit candles, the sound of soft music playing, vases of handmade roses sitting on the coffee table and end tables. Rose petals of different colors scattered over the floor creating a path from the front door all the way into the room.

My hands fly up covering my mouth as I gasp. I see Jesse enter the room from the kitchen smiling at me, carrying a red handmade rose in his strong hand. He walks over to me, puts his arms around me, and we hold each other as we sway to the music. He kisses my cheek and whispers in my ear softly, "Welcome home, baby."

He smells my cheek, breathing deeply, his mouth, then moving to my neck kissing and sucking as I bend slightly giving better access. "Mmmmm," I moan as his lips move back a little and starts on the other side, as I tilt the other direction and back some, moaning loudly.

"Baby, you don't know what you do to me," he murmurs, his mouth and lips steadily busy. His kisses make their way back up my neck and find my mouth. Our kissing becoming heated as we continue to slowly sway to the music and feast on each other. He holds me tighter, squeezing me until I can barely breathe.

When we finally stop for air I move my mouth to his ear, caressing his face with my hands. "Don't stop, don't ever stop," I whisper softly, seductively.

As he moves his hand to my stomach, he begins rubbing it soothingly, looking into my eyes. "I love you so much." He bends down and kisses my stomach and then looks at it. "I love you so much." He continues to bend down on one knee and looks up at me, taking my hand in his and my breathing stops. "Cassie Morelli, I love you with my whole heart and can't imagine a day without you in my life. I want to cherish you, take care of you and our babies. And yes, spoil you and them rotten." He smiles and chuckles. Then his face changes into a serious look. "But baby, I need you. I need you to be with me officially and become my family. I want to become your family. Forever. With all my heart, with every inch of my soul, with every breath I take, I promise to love you forever." Tears are flowing down my face now, and I can barely see him with my vision blurred so I reach up with my free hand wiping them from my face.

"Cassie, will you marry me? Become my wife and together we'll live happily ever after, forever." Releasing my hand, he pulls a ring box from his pocket, opens the lid and holds it up to me. It's a beautiful heart shaped diamond in a setting with smaller pink diamonds that surround it, and smaller diamonds follow the band on either side. It's stunning! "Take my heart, for you've already taken my mind and soul."

I can't stop the tears as I nod shakily and whisper, "Yes." I clear my throat and speaking louder, "Yes!" He jumps up, grabs me, picking me up, and swings me around as he peppers my mouth and face with kisses. Once he sets me down, he takes the ring from its box and places it on my finger. He brings my hand up to his mouth and kisses the ring. With love in his moist eyes, he looks into mine. "You've made me the happiest and luckiest man in the world."

I reach up with my other hand, lovingly brushing the hair out of his eyes. "My love, you keep saving me from all the torments that have been in my life. You've given me the happiness I have always wished for, longed for. You will always be my savior. Forever."

We decided on a September wedding, the weather not being too hot or too cold. Being six months pregnant and with twins, my stomach is huge already. Of course, I've been eating everything in sight, so I had to get maternity clothes. Allie and I found a gorgeous dress at the bridal shop that fits where I need it to, showing my ample cleavage, but flowing in the front to hide my growing stomach as much as it can. We haven't heard from Thomas since the night they had their bad fights on the phone, but we sent him an invitation anyway. He is going to be a grandpa after all. No one has heard if he will be attending the wedding though, and I really want him to be there especially for Jesse.

Stella is actually going to close the Café that day so all my friends there can attend and after the wedding the reception will be held there. Allie's going over early that morning to help decorate.

Our wedding was held in our backyard. Buck, Shane and Tuck had brought over all the chairs, tables, tent and wedding arch that we rented, and they helped set everything up. The design company decorated everything outside with lights in the trees, with candles and the tables were outfitted in the finest tableware. All complimentary in light of Sabrina's damages to me and her incarceration. As I walked down the aisle made up of a beautiful gold runner, I looked into my soon to be husband's smiling face at the end. I was trying to hold my tears at bay until it's over but didn't think I would be able to with my hormones being at an all-time high. When I got to the end of the aisle, Jesse took my hand, giving me his gorgeous smile and held it through the entire ceremony. As he said his endearments, he laid his other hand on my protruding belly, moving his thumb over it soothingly.

"Cassie, my love. Fate led me to you, to save you, to love you, to protect you and to keep you. I will always be there for you. My heart overflows with love for you. Will you be mine, forever?"

A tear finally frees itself from my eyes and slowly rolls down my face. "I will." I take my other hand and place it over his heart.

"Jesse, my love, my savior. You've saved me so many times now from the bad in the world, from my unhappiness and from my loneliness. I know you will always protect me and keep me safe. I have no more love to give you, because you have it all. Will you be mine, forever?"

He brings my hand up to his lips, kissing the top softly. "I will."

Before he is told he may kiss the bride, his lips are already locked on mine.

The surprise for us that day was Thomas showing up. Of course, we didn't realize he was there until after we had turned around, and we were being announced as husband and wife. Walking back down the aisle together, Thomas steps out into the aisle before us and envelopes Jesse into a warm embrace. Never releasing my hand, I stand watching father and son having a tender moment. I think I cried more that day than ever in my life. Thomas turns to me and hugs me, whispering in my ear, "Cassie, my daughter. I am so happy for you both. I hope you'll forgive me." He puts his hand on my stomach and looks at me. "I'm going to be a grandpa." He smiles with tears in his eyes.

We arrive at the Café, the music already blaring from the sounds of Tuck's band that is set up in the back on a small platform, people already drinking, some dancing and enjoying the festivities. As we walk in Jesse takes me towards the band, stopping Tuck in mid song and moves over as Jesse pulls me up onto the platform with him. I'm confused and have no idea what he's up to when he taps on the microphone, causing a loud squeal. He laughs and then clears his throat. "Can I have your attention for just a few minutes, please?" He waits for a minute as everyone begins to settle down. "Thanks! Well, Cassie, my wonderful wife...." he smiles at me, with so much love in his eyes. "And I have some news to share." The crowd stirs, and you can hear the murmuring as they look at each other.

"We found out...." He looks at me winking. I smile happily, nodding. "We found out that we're having twins." The shouts of congratulations are deafening. The looks of shock and happiness on everyone's faces making my heart swell with love. He taps on the microphone again, getting everyone's attention once more. "We also found out that we're having a boy and a girl!" He yells as he raises my hand up high with his, the crowd going wild.

After all settles down, everyone coming over to us in a mob, patting our backs, rubbing my tummy and wishing us well, we finally have our first dance. When we've finished, I get settled at a table as Jesse piles plates full of great food for us, bringing them to the table. We dig in enjoying the great food and company. Thomas looks at us and asks when my due date is. "December twenty fifth but with twins they could be early," Jesse tells him.

"And have you picked out names yet?" Thomas asks.

Jesse and I look at each other and shrug. "Well, we haven't had time to think about it too much yet, but honestly, I have no idea," I say shrugging my shoulders, looking at my love.

He looks at me, the love in his eyes so full for me. "Maybe, we'll have to have a poll!" Jesse smirks.

The End
Coming Soon in 2013!

'TOGETHER FOREVER'

(FOREVER SERIES #2)

'Together Forever, never apart, maybe in distance, Never in Heart'

After escaping her ordinary life and following her dream of writing a romance novel, Allie Richard's finds herself falling in love with her sexy best friend Shane Barton. But all too soon, her past catches up to her, trying to tear their budding romance apart.

Finally finding the amazing girl of his dreams, Shane Barton races to protect what's his and will do anything to protect her. This loving, and sexy man is tender to the touch but will fight to keep them together.

Will Allie and Shane be able to withstand what her past throws at them to put an end to their happiness? Will they ever be able to be Together Forever?
Dedication

The most important dedication: My husband, Dean and sons Charles (C.J.) and Cole. Your support through all of this is beyond amazing. I love you more than my words could ever tell you. More than my actions could ever show you. You are my heart and my life!

I would like to dedicate this, my first book, to all of the Author's I have had the honor to read their books. They have all inspired me in different ways. To my first reader's and all the reader's along the way, without you this is not possible. My heart is so full of love for you all!
Acknowledgments

I would like to acknowledge the following for without you I would not have had the encouragement, the help with pre reading, re reading and your honest feedback and suggestions to follow my dreams.

First and most important, 'Morning after a Good Book', book blog. Annie and Heather, as I have told you before YOU ROCK! Seriously, without you, your support, advice, recommendations, I never could have done this! I owe you both so much! Our late night rendezvous on Facebook with laughing, sharing pictures, gave me the much needed break's from writing and our friendship formed. More than that though, I cannot express the gratitude of you taking me under your wings. You have helped me every step of the way through this and for that you have my undying love and gratitude. You'll never know how much I appreciate you! Just one more word, 'Roadtrip'!!!!!!!!!

Visit 'Morning after a Good Book' on their blog: http://morningafteragoodbook.blogspot.com/ and their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/morningafteragoodbook.

My Beta Reader extraordinaire, Megan! I learned so much from you as you made your way through my book countless times. You amazed me with your suggestions, pointing out sections that could be better worded and what things to do research on to make it better. You took time out of your busy life to help me make my book a work of art and I Thank You, from the bottom of my heart.

Another Beta Reader, Darlene. You gave me such a 'High' every time you gave me your opinions. Seriously, I didn't think I would ever come down. That encouraged me to push harder to get my book finished.

I had a few other Author's pre read my book and their opinions and suggestions helped me learn so much. Their praise and reviews made me feel like my head was in the clouds. They made me think even more that my book was worth publishing.

'Cover it Designs', you were so fast and wonderful to work with. You knew I was struggling to get a cover made and you jumped on it. You jumped in and with your suggestions you were able to create just what I had been looking for in a matter of a few days. It was a pleasure working with you and look forward to more in the near future. You made my first cover for this book look so great!

Cover to Cover Designs, Kari. You're an awesome cover designer and I love that we've become friends. You make my covers look life like and you are so great to work with. Love you!

To my friends at work who had to endure me constantly talking about my exciting adventure in writing this book, I know, I owe you. You know who you are.
About the Author

Vicki Green grew up in Overland Park, Kansas and has resided in Olathe, Kansas for more than 25 years. Along with her husband and two teenage boys, she shares her home with her cocker spaniel's Shadow and Mocha. She has been working full time at the same Company for almost 35 years. Her life has been filled with the most loving and caring parents, Larry and Betty Gassaway, who are both in Heaven now but are still in her heart and mind daily.

Vicki enjoys reading books, too many on her Kindle and Nook to count, which is what inspired her to begin writing this book.

Visit Vicki on her blog: http://www.vickigreenauthor.com/ and her Author Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/VickiGreenAuthor for upcoming news about her future endeavors
